bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Involvement of the JAK‐STAT pathway in the molecular landscape of tyrosine kinase fusion‐negative hypereosinophilic syndromes: A nationwide CEREO study
Authors: Groh Matthieu , Fenwarth Laurène , Labro Mathilde , Boudry Augustin , Fournier Elise , Wemeau Mathieu , Marceau‐Renaut Alice , Daltro de Oliveira Rafael , Abraham Julie , Barry Marly , Blanche Philippe , Bodard Quentin , Braun Thorsten , Chebrek Safia , Decamp Matthieu , Durel Cécile‐Audrey , Forcade Edouard , Gerfaud‐Valentin Mathieu , Golfier Camille , Gourguechon Clément , Grardel Nathalie , Kosmider Olivier , Martis Nihal , Melboucy Belkhir Sarah , Merabet Fatiha , Michon Adrien , Moreau Stéphane , Morice Cécile , Néel Antoine , Nicolini Franck E. , Pascal Laurent , Pasquier Florence , Pieragostini Andrea , Roche‐Lestienne Catherine , Rousselot Philippe , Terriou Louis , Thiebaut‐Bertrand Anne , Viallard Jean‐François , Preudhomme Claude , Kahn Jean‐Emmanuel , Lefevre Guillaume , Duployez Nicolas ,   CEREO Collaborators
Published: April 2024

We investigated using a custom NGS panel of 149 genes the mutational landscape of 64 consecutive adult patients with tyrosine kinase fusion‐negative hypereosinophilia (HE)/hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) harboring features suggestive of myeloid neoplasm. At least one mutation was reported in 50/64 (78%) patients (compared to 8/44 (18%) patients with idiopathic HE/HES/HEUS used as controls; p < .001). Thirty‐five patients (54%) had at least one mutation involving the JAK‐STAT pathway, including STAT5B (n = 18, among which the hotspot N642H, n = 13), JAK1 (indels in exon 13, n = 5; V658F/L, n = 2), and JAK2 (V617F, n = 6; indels in exon 13, n = 2). Other previously undescribed somatic mutations were also found in JAK2, JAK1, STAT5B, and STAT5A, including three patients who shared the same STAT5A V707fs mutation and features consistent with primary polycythemia. Nearly all JAK‐STAT mutations were preceded by (or associated with) myelodysplasia‐related gene mutations, especially in RNA‐splicing genes or chromatin modifiers. In multivariate analysis, neurologic involvement (hazard ratio [HR] 4.95 [1.87–13.13]; p = .001), anemia (HR 5.50 [2.24–13.49]; p < .001), and the presence of a high‐risk mutation (as per the molecular international prognosis scoring system: HR 6.87 [2.39–19.72]; p < .001) were independently associated with impaired overall survival. While corticosteroids were ineffective in all treated JAK‐STAT‐mutated patients, ruxolitinib showed positive hematological responses including in STAT5A‐mutated patients. These findings emphasize the usefulness of NGS for the workup of tyrosine kinase fusion‐negative HE/HES patients and support the use of JAK inhibitors in this setting. Updated classifications could consider patients with JAK‐STAT mutations and eosinophilia as a new “gene mutated‐entity” that could be differentiated from CEL, NOS, and idiopathic HES.
On the effect heterogeneity of established disease susceptibility loci for Alzheimer's disease across different genetic ancestries
Authors: Lee Sanghun , Hecker Julian , Hahn Georg , Mullin Kristina ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), Lutz Sharon M. , Tanzi Rudolph E. , Lange Christoph , Prokopenko Dmitry
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Genome‐wide association studies have identified numerous disease susceptibility loci (DSLs) for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, only a limited number of studies have investigated the dependence of the genetic effect size of established DSLs on genetic ancestry.

METHODS

We utilized the whole genome sequencing data from the Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project (ADSP) including 35,569 participants. A total of 25,459 subjects in four distinct populations (African ancestry, non‐Hispanic White, admixed Hispanic, and Asian) were analyzed.

RESULTS

We found that nine DSLs showed significant heterogeneity across populations. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs2075650 in translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane 40 (TOMM40) showed the largest heterogeneity (Cochran's Q = 0.00, I2 = 90.08), followed by other SNPs in apolipoprotein C1 (APOC1) and apolipoprotein E (APOE). Two additional loci, signal‐induced proliferation‐associated 1 like 2 (SIPA1L2) and solute carrier 24 member 4 (SLC24A4), showed significant heterogeneity across populations.

DISCUSSION

We observed substantial heterogeneity for the APOE‐harboring 19q13.32 region with TOMM40/APOE/APOC1 genes. The largest risk effect was seen among African Americans, while Asians showed a surprisingly small risk effect.
Who knows how much kids are sleeping? And why it matters
Authors: Sutton Kelsey B. , Parent Justin
Published: April 2024

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, children from the ages of 6 to 12 should be getting 9–12 hours of sleep every night (Paruthi et al., 2016). However, many children are not getting enough sleep. The National Survey of Children's Health found that 38.4% of 6–12‐year‐olds in the United States had short sleep duration according to parental report (Wheaton & Claussen, 2021). This sleep deficit may increase with age, as the CDC found that around six in 10 middle schoolers and seven in 10 high schoolers self‐report not getting the recommended amount of sleep on school nights (Wheaton et al., 2018). In addition to age, this difference in the percentage of kids with insufficient sleep may also be due to the differences in informant between those two surveys. One study found that while both children and parents overestimated total sleep time compared with the polysomnography, the child report was slightly more accurate (Combs et al., 2019).
Self‐harming youth admitted to hospital are high risk for psychosis
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2024

That there is a strong relationship between psychosis and self‐harm is not in question. However, most of the research conducted has been on individuals already diagnosed with a psychotic disorder. So researchers wanted to look at whether self‐harm can be a marker for future psychosis.
Modified Halloysite as Catalyst for the Conversion of Hydroxymethylfurfural to Furandicarboxylic Acid: A DFT Investigation
Authors: Bertini Marco , Ferrante Francesco , Guercio Ludovico , Lisuzzo Lorenzo , Duca Dario
Published: April 2024

The reaction steps involved in the 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid conversion by means of H2O2 were investigated employing a dedicated computational protocol based on density functional theory. The catalytic environment of choice was a molecular model representing a portion of the halloysite nanotube outer surface, functionalized by an organosilane, the 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane, whose amino group bonds one gold atom. At this stage of the investigation, the process was fully detailed in terms of the interactions between the reaction intermediates and the catalyst, and the reaction standard free energies. In addition, the energy barriers of the elementary steps involving the hydrogen migration from the adsorbed organic species to the gold atom were analyzed. On the basis of the interaction geometries, a certain distinction among the preferred reaction path can be inferred as a function of the net negative charge characterizing the catalyst outer surface. Since the inner surface of halloysite can represent the acid environment needed to obtain 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural through dehydration of fructose, the present study is framed in a wider research field where the possibility to consider functionalized halloysite as one‐pot reactor for the valorization of biomass is explored.
Construction of Co1‐xZnxFe2xGa2–2xO4 (0<x≤0.6) Solid Solutions for Improving Solar Fuels Production in Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction by H2O Vapour
Authors: Wang Qiang , Li Li , Lu Jiaxue , Chai Yao , Shen Jinni , Liang Jun
Published: April 2024

Solid solutions are garnering substantial attention in the realm of solar energy utilization due to their tunable electronic properties, encompassing band edge positions and charge‐carrier mobilities. In this study, we designed and synthesized Co1‐xZnxFe2xGa2–2xO4 (0<x≤0.6) as a photocatalyst for CO2 conversion using H2O. Careful optical and photo/electrochemical characterizations unveiled that the relative content of CoGa2O4 and ZnFe2O4 not only substantially influences light absorption in the full solar spectrum but also modulates valence and conduction band positions. We thoroughly assessed the photocatalytic activity of Co1‐xZnxFe2xGa2–2xO4 and found that when x=0.35, the solid‐solution catalyst achieved a remarkable CO2 reduction rate to CH4 and CO (31.5 μmol g−1 h−1). Furthermore, this optimized solid‐solution catalyst demonstrated impressive photostability. Characterization and DFT calculations revealed that the formation of a solid solution not only reduces the band gap and promotes the separation of electron‐hole pairs to accelerate efficient CO2 photoreduction, but also the introduction of more FeO6 octahedral active sites in Co1‐xZnxFe2xGa2–2xO4 solid solutions enhanced the effective photoreduction of CO2. This design results in high conversion efficiencies for producing solar fuels through CO2 reduction with H2O.
Relationship between 24 h blood pressure variability and mortality in acute myocardial infarction patients
Authors: Liu Ying , Li Wen , An Shuoyan , Zhai Zhengqin , Liu Xinju , Hei Mengxue , Chen Gailing
Published: April 2024

Background

In recent years, the mortality of patients with AMI has not declined significantly. The relationship between blood pressure variability (BPV) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is unclear. We explored the relationship between 24‐h BPV and mortality in patients with AMI.

Hypothesis

The mortality of patients with AMI is related to BPV. We hope to provide therapeutic ideas for reducing the risk of death in patients with AMI.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study. We extracted and analyzed data from the MIMIC‐IV 2.0, which was established in 1999 under the auspices of the National Institutes of Health (America). The average real variability (ARV) was calculated for the first 24‐h blood pressure measurement after patients with AMI were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Patients were divided into four groups according to ARV quartiles. The outcomes were 30‐day, 1‐year, and 3‐year all‐cause mortalities. Data were analyzed using Cox regression, Kaplan–Meier curves, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves.

Results

We enrolled 1291 patients with AMI, including 475 female. The patients were divided into four groups according to the qualities of diastolic blood pressure (DBP)‐ARV. There were significant differences in the 30‐day, 1‐year and 3‐year mortality among the four groups (p = .02, p < .001, p < .001, respectively). After adjustment for confounding factors, systolic blood pressure (SBP)‐ARV could not predict AMI patient mortality (p > .05), while the highest DBP‐ARV was associated strongly with increased 30‐day mortality (HR: 2.291, 95% CI 1.260‐4.168), 1‐year mortality (HR: 1.933, 95% CI 1.316‐2.840) and 3‐year mortality (HR: 1.743, 95% CI 1.235‐2.461). Kaplan–Meier curves demonstrated that, regardless of SBP or DBP, the long‐term survival probabilities of patients in the highest ARV group were significantly lower than that of those in other groups. RCS curves showed that the death risk of patients with AMI first decreased and then increased with the increase in ARV when DBP‐ARV < 8.04. The 30‐day death risk first increased and then decreased, and the 1‐year and 3‐year death risks increased and then stabilized with ARV increase when DBP‐ARV > 8.04.

Conclusion

This study showed that patients with AMI may have an increased risk of short‐ and long‐term death if their DBP‐ARV is higher or lower during the first 24‐h in ICU.
Electronic health intervention to manage symptoms of immunotherapy in patients with cancer (SOFIA): Results from a randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Sauer Christina , Zschäbitz Stefanie , Krauss Jürgen , Walle Thomas , Haag Georg Martin , Jäger Dirk , Hiller Kiriaki , Bugaj Till Johannes , Friederich Hans‐Christoph , Maatouk Imad
Published: April 2024

Background

For patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors, early detection of immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) is critical for one’s safety. To this end, a smartphone app (SOFIA) was developed that featured the assessment of electronic patient‐reported outcomes (ePROs) focusing on irAEs as well as a set of comprehensive supportive information. Its feasibility and preliminary efficacy were evaluated in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Methods

Patients who received immune checkpoint inhibition therapy were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG) or a control group (CG; care as usual). During the 12‐week intervention period, IG patients used SOFIA to report twice weekly ePROs and receive cancer‐ and immunotherapy‐relevant contents. Before a patient’s next clinical visit, the physician in charge was given the ePRO reports. The primary objective was to test the feasibility of SOFIA. Furthermore, the preliminary efficacy of SOFIA for health‐related quality of life (HRQOL), psychosocial outcomes, and medical data was examined. Clinical outcomes were assessed at baseline (T0), post‐intervention (T1), and a 3‐month follow‐up (T2).

Results

Seventy‐one patients were randomized to the IG (n = 34) or the CG (n = 37). SOFIA showed high feasibility and acceptance. At T1, patients in the IG reported significantly better HRQOL and role functioning and less depression, distress, and appetite loss. No significant differences were revealed regarding medical data, the utilization of supportive care services, or survival.

Conclusions

SOFIA showed high feasibility and acceptance and improved HRQOL and psychosocial outcomes. These results suggest further evaluation of efficacy in a large‐scale confirmatory multicenter RCT.
MB16− (M=Sc, Y, La): Perfect Bowl‐Like Boron Clusters
Authors: Dong Xue , Miao Lin‐Hong , Liu Yu‐Qian , Cui Li‐Juan , Feng Wei , Cui Zhong‐Hua
Published: April 2024

The introduction of transition‐metal doping has engendered a remarkable array of unprecedented boron motifs characterized by distinctive geometries and bonding, particularly those heretofore unobserved in pure boron clusters. In this study, we present a perfect (no defects) boron framework manifesting an inherently high‐symmetry, bowl‐like architecture, denoted as MB16− (M=Sc, Y, La). In MB16−, the B16 is coordinated to M atoms along the C5v‐symmetry axis. The bowl‐shaped MB16− structure is predicted to be the lowest‐energy structure with superior stability, owing to its concentric (2 π+10 π) dual π aromaticity. Notably, the C5v‐symmetry bowl‐like B16− is profoundly stabilized through the doping of an M atom, facilitated by strong d‐pπ interactions between M and boron motifs, in conjunction with additional electrostatic stabilization by an electron transfer from M to the boron motifs. This concerted interplay of covalent and electrostatic interactions between M and bowl‐like B16 renders MB16− a species of exceptional thermodynamic stability, thus making it a viable candidate for gas‐phase experimental detection.
Ether−Water Co‐Solvent Electrolytes Enhanced Vanadium Oxide Cathode Cyclic Behaviors for Zinc Batteries
Authors: Li Linpo , Jiang Gang , Li Mengxiang , Xu Mingyang , Wang Liyuan , Li Jing , Wang Mingyu , Shangguan Enbo , Niu Yanli
Published: April 2024

Vanadium‐based compounds are fantastic cathodes for aqueous zinc metal batteries due to the high specific capacity and excellent rate capability. Nevertheless, the practical application has been hampered by the dissolution of vanadium in traditional aqueous electrolytes owing to the strong polarity of water molecules. Herein, we propose a hybrid electrolyte made of Zn(ClO4)2 salt in tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (G4) and H2O solvents to upgrade the cycle life of Zn//K0.486V2O5 battery. The G4 jointly solvates with Zn2+ ions and replaces a portion of the H2O molecules in the Zn2+ solvation sheath. It forms a strong bond with H2O, reducing its activity, and significantly inhibiting vanadium dissolution and water‐induced parasitic reaction. Consequently, the optimized electrolyte with H2O and G4 volume ratio of 5 : 5 enhances the cycling stability of Zn//K0.486V2O5 battery, enabling it to reach up to 600 cycles. In addition, the battery demonstrates a satisfactory reversible capacity of 475.7 mAh g−1 and excellent rate performance attributed to the moderate ionic conductivity (28.8 mS cm−1) of the hybrid electrolyte. Last but not least, in the optimized electrolyte, the symmetric Zn//Zn cells deliver a long cycling performance of 400 h, while the asymmetric Zn//Cu cells shows a high average coulombic efficiency of 97.4 %.
Implementation of an adaptive control approach in a single‐phase grid‐tied solar photovoltaic system for power quality improvement
Authors: Singh Sukhbir , Rai Jitendra Nath
Published: April 2024

This work focuses on a novel single‐phase complex band‐pass filter‐based frequency‐locked loop (1ϕ‐CBF‐FLL) control for a grid‐tied solar photovoltaic array (SPVA)‐based energy generating system. Among the novel characteristics of this 1ϕ‐CBF‐FLL control algorithm are as follows: (1) It offers a quick convergence rate; (2) it has the ability to mitigate harmonics and DC offset; and (3) it has simplicity in execution. A voltage source converter (VSC), boost converter, 1‐ϕ grid, ripple filter, and nonlinear loads are all part of the system. Feeding 1‐ϕ nonlinear loads and the grid with active power from the solar array is managed by the VSC. Furthermore, grid current quality is enhanced by the use of VSC. Between the solar array and DC‐link capacitor, there is a boost converter that uses the perturb and observe (P&O) technique to track the maximum power from the SPVA. The primary aim of the proposed system is to remove power quality (PQ) issues brought on by nonlinear and imbalanced loads and to supply sinusoidal grid currents during solar irradiance fluctuations. Additionally, a comparison between 1ϕ‐CBF‐FLL control and other control algorithms is presented. The effectiveness of this 1ϕ‐CBF‐FLL control is examined under varying nonlinear loads and in various environmental settings. Test results are used to confirm the simulated results of the proposed system. According to the IEEE‐519 standard, the recommended control may achieve a source current of total harmonic distortion (THD) of 4.02%, which is lower than 5%, a source voltage of THD of 3.21%, and a load current of THD of 24.54%.
Studies on the spatial evolution of pulsed helium plasma
Authors: Singha S. , Ahmed A. , Borthakur S. , Neog N. K. , Borthakur T. K.
Published: April 2024

The high‐density transient plasma, streaming from a pulsed plasma accelerator (PPA), was diagnosed with a Triple Langmuir probe (TLP) for spatial mapping of the stream in terms of plasma density and temperature. A contour plot for density and temperature shows a distinct form of a highly dense island of plasma with varied plasma temperatures. The formation of such highly dense islands can be correlated with the formation of distinct plasma structures, as observed in astrophysical plasmas and fusion plasma. The results of TLP were supported by the intensity variation derived from signals of a photodetector system. The plasma stream imaged with high‐speed video camera also showed the density fluctuation inside the plasma stream. The estimated maximum density and temperature were ∼7.2 × 1020 m−3 and ∼28 eV, respectively.
Nitrogen addition alleviates the adverse effects of drought on plant productivity in a temperate steppe
Authors: Luo Yonghong , Du Lan , Zhang Jiatao , Ren Haiyan , Shen Yan , Zhang Jinbao , Li Na , Tian Ru , Wang Shan , Liu Heyong , Xu Zhuwen
Published: April 2024

Drought and nitrogen enrichment could profoundly affect the productivity of semiarid ecosystems. However, how ecosystem productivity will respond to different drought scenarios, especially with a concurrent increase in nitrogen availability, is still poorly understood. Using data from a 4‐year field experiment conducted in a semiarid temperate steppe, we explored the responses of aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) to different drought scenarios and nitrogen addition, and the underlying mechanisms linking soil properties, plant species richness, functional diversity (community‐weighted means of plant traits, functional dispersion) and phylogenetic diversity (net relatedness index) to ANPP. Our results showed that completely excluding precipitation in June (1‐month intense drought) and reducing half the precipitation amount from June to August (season‐long chronic drought) both significantly reduced ANPP, with the latter having a more negative impact on ANPP. However, reducing half of the precipitation frequency from June to August (precipitation redistribution) had no significant effect on ANPP. Nitrogen addition increased ANPP irrespective of drought scenarios. ANPP was primarily determined by soil moisture and nitrogen availability by regulating the community‐weighted means of plant height, rather than other aspects of plant diversity. Our findings suggest that precipitation amount is more important than precipitation redistribution in influencing the productivity of temperate steppe, and nitrogen supply could alleviate the adverse impacts of drought on grassland productivity. Our study advances the mechanistic understanding of how the temperate grassland responds to drought stress, and implies that management strategies to protect tall species in the community would be beneficial for maintaining the productivity and carbon sequestration of grassland ecosystems under climate drought.
Food density drives diet shift of the invasive mysid shrimp, Limnomysis benedeni
Authors: Rani Varsha , Horváth Zsófia , Nejstgaard Jens C. , Fierpasz Ádám , Pálffy Károly , Vad Csaba F.
Published: April 2024

Understanding the diet preferences and food selection of invasive species is crucial to better predict their impact on community structure and ecosystem functioning. Limnomysis benedeni, a Ponto‐Caspian invasive mysid shrimp, is one of the most successful invaders in numerous European river and lake ecosystems. While existing studies suggest potentially strong trophic impact due to high predation pressure on native plankton communities, little is known of its food selectivity between phyto‐ and zooplankton, under different food concentrations. Here, we therefore investigated the feeding selectivity of L. benedeni on two commonly occurring prey organisms in freshwaters, the small rotifer zooplankton Brachionus calyciflorus together with the microphytoplankton Cryptomonas sp. present in increasing densities. Our results demonstrated a clear shift in food selection, with L. benedeni switching from B. calyciflorus to Cryptomonas sp. already when the two prey species were provided in equal biomasses. Different functional responses were observed for the two food types, indicating somewhat different foraging mechanisms for each food type. These findings provide experimental evidence on the feeding flexibility of invasive mysid shrimps and potential implications for trophic interactions in invaded ecosystems.
Intranasal administration of unadjuvanted SARS‐CoV‐2 spike antigen boosts antigen‐specific immune responses induced by parenteral protein subunit vaccine prime in mice and hamsters
Authors: Agbayani Gerard , Akache Bassel , Renner Tyler M. , Tran Anh , Stuible Matthew , Dudani Renu , Harrison Blair A. , Duque Diana , Bavananthasivam Jegarubee , Deschatelets Lise , Hemraz Usha D. , Régnier Sophie , Durocher Yves , McCluskie Michael J.
Published: April 2024

With the continued transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 across widely vaccinated populations, it remains important to develop new vaccines and vaccination strategies capable of providing protective immunity and limiting the spread of disease. Heterologous prime‐boost vaccination based on the selection of different vaccine formulations and administration routes for priming and booster doses presents a promising strategy for inducing broader immune responses in key systemic and respiratory mucosal compartments. Intranasal vaccination can induce mucosal immune responses at the site of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection; however, the lack of clinically approved mucosal adjuvants makes it difficult to induce robust immune responses with protein subunit vaccines. Herein, we evaluated the immunogenicity of heterologous prime‐boost regimens in mice and hamsters based on a parenteral vaccination of the antigen in combination with sulfated lactosylarchaeol (SLA) archaeosomes, a liposome adjuvant comprised of a single semisynthetic archaeal lipid, followed by an intranasally administered unadjuvanted SARS‐CoV‐2 spike antigen. Intranasal administration of unadjuvanted spike to mice and hamsters increased serum spike‐specific IgG titers and spike‐neutralizing activity compared with nonboosted animals. Spike‐specific IgA responses were also detected in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in the lungs of mice that received an intranasal boost. In hamsters, the intranasal boost showed high efficacy against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection by protecting from body weight loss and reducing viral titers in the lungs and nasal turbinate. Overall, our heterologous intramuscular prime‐intranasal boost with SLA‐adjuvanted and unadjuvanted spike, respectively, demonstrated the potential of protein subunit formulations to promote antigen‐specific systemic and mucosal immune responses.
Experimental Study on the Migration and Distribution of Microplastics in Desert Farmland Soil Under Drip Irrigation
Authors: Du Ao , Hu Can , Wang Xufeng , Zhao Yachuan , Xia Wenhao , Dai Xianxing , Wang Long , Zhang Shufeng
Published: April 2024

The microplastics (MPs) formed by broken plastic film may migrate in the soil under drip irrigation. To investigate the migration distribution of MPs in desert farmland soil under drip irrigation conditions, our study was conducted on farmland in Xinjiang (China). A MP drip irrigation penetration migration testing device was set up in combination with Xinjiang farmland irrigation methods to conduct a migration simulation experiment. The results showed that the migration amount of MPs in soil was significantly positively correlated with the amount of drip irrigation, and significantly negatively correlated with the soil depth; in addition, the relationship between the migration amount of MPs in different types of soil was: clay < sandy loam < sandy soil. Under drip irrigation conditions, the migration rates of MPs were 30.51%, 19.41%, and 10.29% in sandy soil, sandy loam soil, and clay, respectively. The migration ability of these three particle sizes of polyethylene MPs in soil was ranked as follows: 25 to 147 μm > 0 to 25 μm > 147 to 250 μm. When the drip irrigation volume was 2.6 to 3.2 L, horizontal migration distances of MPs exceeded 5 cm, and vertical migration distances reached more than 30 cm. Our findings provide reference data for the study of soil MP migration. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1250–1259. © 2024 SETAC
Determinants of compliance to iron folate supplementation among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities of South West Ethiopia: A case‐control study
Authors: Shumi Lensa , Gedefa Abdi Geda , Bidira Kebebe
Published: April 2024

Background

The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women remains high globally, particularly in low‐income settings. Iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS) during pregnancy is the most widely employed strategy to alleviate adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to explore the determinants of compliance with iron supplementation in the study area.

Aim

To identify determinants of IFAS compliance among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in Mettu town, South West Ethiopia, in 2021.

Methods

A facility‐based, unmatched case‐control study was conducted from May to July 2021 with a total sample size of 344 (115 cases and 229 controls). Cases and controls were selected using systematic random sampling. Data was collected using a structured, pretested interviewer‐administered questionnaire, entered into Epi‐data software version 3.1, and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Variables with p < 0.25 during bivariate analyses were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model. Then, variables with a p < 0.05 at 95% confidence interval (CI) were declared to be statistically significant determinants of IFAS. The odds ratio was used to indicate the strength of the association.

Result

Having Previous history of anaemia (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 5.8, 95% CI [2.5−13.6], p < 0.01), having good knowledge about IFAS (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI [1.7−6.7], p < 0.001), being a government employee (AOR = 5.2 [2.4−11.5], p < 0.01], and receiving counseling service during ANC (2.495% CI [1.3−4.7] p < 0.01) were among determinants of adherence to IFAS.

Conclusions

Maternal knowledge about IFAS, counseling about IFAS, occupation, and history of anaemia were found to be significantly associated factors with compliance with iron folate supplementation during pregnancy. This implies that adherence to IFAS can be improved through improving maternal knowledge about importance of IFAS, quality counseling services and strengthening an overall ANC follow‐up services.
Demographic, clinical, and surgical features of patients undergoing thyroidectomy due to thyroid lesions in Southern Iran: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mardani Parviz , Koulaian Sepehr , Fouladi Damoun , Rajaie Ramsheh Fatemeh Sadat , Amirian Armin , Shahriarirad Sepehr , Malekhosseini Seyed Ali , Shahriarirad Reza
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

The incidence of thyroid cancer has witnessed a significant global increase and stands as one of the most prevalent cancers in Iran. This surge is primarily attributed to the escalating incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), with overdiagnosis emerging as an equally noteworthy factor. Consequently, this study aims to ascertain the incidence of thyroid cancer, along with its clinical presentation, demographic characteristics, and surgical features in patients undergoing thyroid surgery.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study involved the evaluation of patient files from referral centers in Shiraz spanning the years 2015−2020. Demographic and clinical information pertaining to thyroid cancer was extracted and subsequently analyzed using SPSS software.

Results

A total of 533 documented cases of thyroid cancer undergoing surgery revealed an annual rate of 89 cases in our location. The average age of the patients was 43.9 ± 13.4 years (ranging from 13 to 92), with females constituting 429 (83.5%) of the cases, and 278 (54.1%) being malignant. Conventional PTC emerged as the most prevalent pathology, accounting for 239 (45.0%) of the cases. Patients with thyromegaly exhibited significantly higher incidences of nonmalignant tumors (p = 0.01), while those with malignant tumors were notably younger than those with nonmalignant tumors (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study revealed a progressive rise in the number of patients undergoing thyroidectomy over the years, with PTC constituting the majority of cases. Malignant cases were more frequently observed in younger patients, and in smaller lesion sizes, highlighting the importance of early screening and optimizing detection methods, especially in high‐risk populations.
Measuring the cost‐effectiveness of treating rectovaginal and vesicovaginal fistulas: A multicenter global study by the Fistula Foundation
Authors: Rajagopal Keerthana , Pollaczek Lindsey , Chu Jesse , Mann Hannah
Published: April 2024

Objective

Surgery for obstetric fistula is a highly effective treatment to restore continence and improve quality of life. However, a lack of data on the cost‐effectiveness of this procedure limits prioritization of this essential treatment. This study measures the effectiveness of fistula surgeries using disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) averted.

Methods

In 2021 and 2022, the Fistula Foundation funded 20 179 fistula surgeries and related procedures at 143 hospitals among 27 countries. We calculated DALYs averted specifically for vesicovaginal fistula and rectovaginal fistula procedure types (n = 13 235 surgeries) by using disability weights from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease study. We based cost calculations on direct treatment expenses, including medical supplies, health provider fees, and preoperative and postoperative care. We measured effectiveness using data on the risk of permanent disability, country‐specific average life spans, and treatment outcomes.

Results

The total treatment cost was $7.6 million, and a total of 131 433 DALYs were averted. Thus, the cost per DALY averted—the cost to restore 1 year of healthy life—was $58. For this analysis, we took a cautious approach and weighted only surgeries that resulted in a closed fistula with restored continence. We calculated DALYs averted by country. Limitations of the study include data entry errors inherent in patient logs and lack of long‐term outcomes.

Conclusion

The current study demonstrates that obstetric fistula surgery, along with having a significant positive impact on maternal health outcomes, is highly cost‐effective in comparison with other interventions. The study therefore highlights the benefits of prioritizing fistula treatment as part of the global agenda for maternal health care.
Effect of a Declined Plasma Concentration of Valproic Acid Induced by Meropenem on the Antiepileptic Efficacy of Valproic Acid
Authors: Gu Chunping , Zhang Yongfang , Yuan Fumiao , Huang Kaibin , Lin Zhenzhou , Chen Qiong , Chen Yan , Wu Yongming , Wang Dongmei , Wang Shengnan
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to indicate whether a declined plasma concentration of valproic acid (VPA) induced by co‐administration of meropenem (MEPM) could affect the antiepileptic efficacy of VPA.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data of hospitalized patients who were diagnosed with status epilepticus or epilepsy between 2010 and 2019. Patients co‐administered VPA and MEPM during hospitalization were screened and assigned to the exposure group, while those co‐administerd VPA and other broad‐spectrum antibiotics were allocated to the control group.

Results

The exposure group and control group included 50 and 11 patients, respectively. With a similar dosage of VPA, the plasma concentration of VPA significantly decreased during co‐administration (24.6 ± 4.3 μg/mL) compared with that before co‐administration (88.8 ± 13.6 μg/mL, p < 0.0001), and it was partly recovered with the termination of co‐administration (39.8 ± 13.2 μg/mL, p = 0.163) in the exposure group. The inverse probability of treatment weighting estimated the treatment efficacy via changes in seizure frequency, seizure duration, and concomitant use of antiepileptic drugs, which were not significantly different between the exposure and control groups. In the exposure group, there was no significant differences in seizure frequency between the periods of before‐during and before‐after (p = 0.074 and 0.153, respectively). Seizure duration during VPA–MEPM co‐administration was not significantly different from that before co‐administration (p = 0.291).

Conclusions

In this study, the reduced plasma concentration of VPA induced by the co‐administration of MEPM did not affect the antiepileptic efficacy of VPA. This conclusion should be interpreted with caution, and more research is warranted.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2000034567. Registered on 10 July 2020
Assessment of CYP‐Mediated Drug Interactions for Enasidenib Based on a Cocktail Study in Patients with Relapse or Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia or Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Cheng Yiming , Wang Xiaomin , Ghosh Atalanta , Pu Jie , Carayannopoulos Leonidas N , Li Yan
Published: April 2024

As a selective and potent inhibitor targeting the isocitrate dehydrogenase‐2 (IDH2) mutant protein, enasidenib obtained approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 for adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with an IDH2 mutation. In vitro investigations demonstrated that enasidenib affects various drug metabolic enzymes and transporters. This current investigation aimed to assess enasidenib on the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of CYP substrates, including dextromethorphan (CYP2D6 probe drug), flurbiprofen (CYP2C9 probe drug), midazolam (CYP3A4 probe drug), omeprazole (CYP2C19 probe drug), and pioglitazone (CYP2C8 probe drug), in patients with AML or myelodysplastic syndrome. Results showed that following the co‐administration of enasidenib (100 mg, once daily) for 28 days, the PK parameters AUC(0‐∞) and Cmax of dextromethorphan increased by 1.37 (90% confidence interval (CI): 0.96, 1.96) and 1.24 (90% CI: 0.94, 1.65)‐fold, respectively, compared to dextromethorphan alone. For flurbiprofen, these parameters increased by 1.14 (90%CI: 1.01, 1.29) and 0.97 (90% CI 0.86, 1.08)‐fold, respectively, when compared to flurbiprofen alone. Conversely, midazolam exhibited decreases to 0.57 (90% CI 0.34, 0.97) and 0.77 (90% CI 0.39, 1.53)‐fold, respectively, in comparison to midazolam alone. The parameters for omeprazole increased by 1.86 (90% CI: 1.33, 2.60) and 1.47 (0.93, 2.31)‐fold, respectively, compared to omeprazole alone, while those for pioglitazone decreased to 0.80 (90% CI: 0.62, 1.03) and 0.87 (90% CI: 0.65, 1.16)‐fold, respectively, in comparison to pioglitazone alone. These findings provide valuable insights into dose recommendations concerning drugs acting as substrates of CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP3A4, CYP2C19, and CYP2C8 when administered concurrently with enasidenib.
Jumping into recovery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of discriminatory and responsive force plate parameters in individuals following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction during countermovement and drop jumps
Authors: Labban Wasim , Manaseer Thaer , Golberg Eric , Sommerfeldt Mark , Nathanail Stephanie , Dennett Liz , Westover Lindsey , Beaupre Lauren
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Comprehensive understanding of force plate parameters distinguishing individuals postprimary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) from healthy controls during countermovement jumps (CMJ) and/or drop jumps (DJ) is lacking. This review addresses this gap by identifying discriminative force plate parameters and examining changes over time in individuals post‐ACLR during CMJ and/or DJ.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta analyses following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Nine databases were searched from inception to March 2022. We included cross‐sectional papers comparing post‐ACLR with healthy controls or longitudinal studies of individuals at least 6 months postprimary ACLR while performing CMJ and/or DJ on force plates. The methodological quality was appraised using the Modified Downs and Black Checklist.

Results

Thirty‐three studies including 1185 (50.38%) participants post‐ACLR, and 1167 (49.62%) healthy controls, were included. Data were categorised into single‐leg CMJ, double‐leg CMJ, single‐leg DJ, and double‐leg DJ. Jump height was reduced in both single (mean difference [MD] = −3.13; p < 0.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]: [−4.12, −2.15]) and double‐leg (MD = −4.24; p < 0.01; 95% CI: [−5.14, −3.34]) CMJs amongst individuals with ACLR. Similarly, concentric impulse and eccentric/concentric impulse asymmetry could distinguish between ACLR (MD = 3.42; p < 0.01; 95% CI: [2.19, 4.64]) and non‐ACLR (MD = 5.82; p < 0.01; 95% CI: [4.80, 6.80]) individuals. In double‐leg DJs, peak vertical ground reaction forces were lower in the involved side (MD = −0.10; p = 0.03; 95% CI: [−0.18, −0.01]) but higher in the uninvolved side (MD = 0.15; p < 0.01; 95% CI: [0.10, 0.20]) when compared to controls and demonstrated significant changes between 6 months and 3 years post‐ACLR.

Conclusion

This study identified discriminative kinetic parameters when comparing individuals with and without ACLR and also monitored neuromuscular function post‐ACLR. Due to heterogeneity, a combination of parameters may be required to better identify functional deficits post‐ACLR.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Etrolizumab as an induction and maintenance therapy for ulcerative colitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Saleh Othman , Abuelazm Mohamed T. , Mohamed Islam , Ramadan Alaa , Assaf Mohammad , Alzoubi Ahmad , AlBarakat Majd M. , Abdelazeem Basel
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

Etrolizumab is a gut‐targeted anti‐β7 integrin monoclonal antibody. However, the evidence of etrolizumab efficacy and safety in ulcerative colitis remains inconclusive. Therefore, we aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of etrolizumab as an induction and maintenance therapy for active moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.

Methods

We synthesized randomized controlled studies (RCTs) from MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library until April 2023. The risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous outcomes with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was used. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO with ID: CRD42023437040.

Results

Five RCTs with 1849 participants were included. The etrolizumab group had a significant clinical response (RR: 1.28 with 95% CI [1.08, 1.51], P = 0.005), clinical remission rates during the induction phase (RR: 2.47 with 95% CI [1.48, 4.11], P = 0.0005), compared with the placebo group in ulcerative colitis; however, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups, regarding the corticosteroids‐free remission rate (RR: 1.92 with 95% CI [0.94, 3.92], P = 0.07). Moreover, endoscopic improvement, endoscopic remission, and histologic remission rates were observed more in the etrolizumab group during both the induction and maintenance phases. For safety outcomes, etrolizumab was significantly safer, but any adverse event was higher in the etrolizumab group than in the placebo.

Conclusion

Etrolizumab shows its effectiveness as both an induction and maintenance therapy for moderate or severe UC. The findings demonstrate its positive impact on clinical, endoscopic, and histologic remission rates. Regarding safety, other than any side effects, etrolizumab showed a good safety than a placebo.
Chaordic event co‐creation and tourism destination image: Strategic carnival shifts in the post‐pandemic era
Authors: Pappas Nikolaos , Glyptou Kyriaki , Karadimitriou Christina
Published: April 2024

Major street events, such as carnivals, offer a unique opportunity for destination experience value co‐creation by participants which relates directly to the destination image. This study uses service‐dominant logic (SDL) to consider the effects of event co‐creation on destination image from the point of view of a participatory process rather than from an outcome perspective. Drawing from a sample of 400 street event participants in the Patras Carnival in Greece, it examines the complexity aspects of co‐creational experience and its influence upon the destination image of the host city. Those aspects are examined by means of fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis. The findings revealed three sufficient configurations (co‐creational involvement and satisfaction; co‐creational event image; experience‐satisfaction nexus) that could affect the destination image of the host destination. The paper contributes to the theoretical body of experiential co‐creational approaches to destination image with clear managerial implications for both event organizers and destination managers.
Optimal Treatment Parameters for Ultrasound‐Stimulated Microbubbles in Upregulating Proliferation and Stemness of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Chen Beibei , Zhu Qiong , Duan Mao , Li Qinglong , Wang Gong , Guan Xue , Yu Pu , Xu Xiaoxun , He Ying , Xu Yali
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Ultrasound‐targeted microbubble disruption (UTMD) is a widely used technique to improve the differentiation and proliferation capacity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), but the optimal therapeutic parameters for UTMD are unclear. In this study, we aimed to find the appropriate peak negative pressure (PNP), which is a key parameter for enhancing the stemness properties and proliferation of MSCs.

Methods

Experiments were performed in UTMD group, ultrasound (US) group under different PNP exposure conditions (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 MPa), and control group. Apoptosis safety was analyzed by flow cytometry and MSC proliferation was measured at 12, 24, and 36 hours after irradiation by cell counting kit 8. The expression of the stemness genes NANOG, OCT‐4, and SOX‐2 were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The results showed that the 1.5 MPa UTMD‐treated group had the highest proliferation capacity of MSCs at 24 hours. ELISA or quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction results showed that UTMD treatment of the 1.5 MPa group significantly upregulated the expression of the stemness genes NANOG, SOX‐2, and OCT‐4.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the appropriate peak PNP value of UTMD was 1.5 MPa, and 1.5 MPa‐mediated UTMD group obviously promoted MSCs proliferation and maintained stemness by upregulating the expression of stemness genes.
Exploring the relationship between soil erosion and hydraulic parameters on slopes with clipped herbaceous vegetation through Bayesian network modeling
Authors: He Qilin , Li Binbin , Zhang Fengbao , Shen Nan , Yang Mingyi
Published: April 2024

Clipping management, which alters vegetation conditions by removing aboveground vegetation while preserving the underground root system, directly impacts hydrological processes and flow dynamics, ultimately affecting soil erosion processes. This study conducted field experiments (2 × 6 m) encompassing four clipping intensities (with vegetation coverage of 70%, 50%, 25%, and 0%), three rainfall intensities (60, 90, and 120 mm·h−1), and three slope gradients (10°, 20°, and 30°). The results showed that clipping treatments significantly reduced the Darcy–Weisbach resistance coefficient (f). Elevated levels of clipping intensity, rainfall intensity, and slope gradient led to increased flow velocity (v), Reynolds number (Re), and stream power (ω). The shear stress (τ) exhibited an upward trend with rising slope and rainfall intensity, with no significant difference in the effect of clipping intensity. Variation partitioning analysis demonstrated that the influence of steep slopes amplified the effects of rainfall intensity while diminishing the impact of clipping intensity on v values. Critically, the Bayesian network model suggested that, in comparison to the influence of raindrop splashing, soil detachment and transportation by runoff were the predominant driving mechanisms for erosion on slopes with clipped vegetation. Rainfall intensity and clipping intensity were found to raise the runoff depth and enhance the v value, which ultimately influenced soil erosion. Overall, these results contribute to an improved comprehension of the hydraulic dynamics of soil erosion on slopes with clipped vegetation and provide invaluable perspectives for developing effective clipping management strategies to ensure sustainable land utilization and judicious water resource governance.