bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anticancer Potential of the S‐Heterocyclic Ring Containing Drugs and its Bioactivation to Reactive Metabolites
Authors: Maji Sumit , Debnath Biplab , Panda Shambo , Manna Tanusree , Maity Arindam , Dayaramani Richa , Nath Rajarshi , Khan Shah Alam , Akhtar Md Jawaid
Published: May 2024

Sulfur‐containing heterocyclic derivatives have been disclosed for binding with a wide range of cancer‐specific protein targets. Various interesting derivatives of sulfur‐containing heterocyclics such as benzothiazole, thiazole, thiophene, thiazolidinedione, benzothiophene, and phenothiazine, etc have been shown to inhibit diverse signaling pathways implicated in cancer. Significant progress has also been made in molecular targeted therapy against specific enzymes such as kinase receptors due to potential binding interactions inside the ATP pocket. Sulfur‐containing heterocyclic ring metal complexes i. e., benzothiazole, thiazole, thiophene, benzothiophene and phenothiazines are among the most promising active anticancer compounds. However, sulfur heteroaromatic rings, particularly thiophene, are of high structural alert due to their metabolism to reactive metabolites. The mere presence of a structural alert itself does not determine compound toxicity therefore, this review focuses on some specific findings that shed light on factors influencing the toxicity. In the current review, synthetic strategies of introducing the sulfur core ring in the synthesized derivatives are discussed with their structure‐activity relationships to enhance our understanding of toxicity mechanisms and develop safer therapeutic options. The sulfur‐containing marketed anticancer drugs included in this review direct the synthesis of novel compounds and will help in the development of potent, safer sulfur‐based anticancer drugs in near future.
Irciniaplysins A−D: New Psammaplysin Derivatives from Philippine Marine Sponge Ircinia sp.
Authors: Ang Aileen May G. , Uy Mylene M. , Ohta Emi , Ômura Hisashi , Ohta Shinji
Published: May 2024

Four new psammaplysin derivatives (1–4) with fatty acyl substituents, designated irciniaplysins A−D, and three known psammaplysins (5–7) were isolated from a marine sponge Ircinia sp. Their structures were elucidated using extensive spectroscopic analyses. The positions of the double bonds and the branch points of the fatty acyl side chains were determined by GC‐MS analysis of their fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) derivatives. Irciniaplysins A (1) and B (2) contained an unusual long‐chain fatty acyl substituent with a 5,9‐diene unit. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against the human colorectal carcinoma (HCT 116) cells, however, none of these compounds showed significant activity.
Dentigerous cyst in the medial wall of maxillary sinus
Authors: Mohebiniya Maryam , Jadidi Soheila
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

This is the image of dentigerous cyst detected in the medial wall of maxillary sinus, a rare location for the mentioned cyst, which emphasizes the superiority of radiographic features from the site of the lesion. Moreover, the present case showed no facial asymmetry despite the extension of the lesion.
Vulvovaginitis due to Enterobius vermicularis in a girl and epidemic enterobiasis in her family
Authors: Davoodi Lotfollah , Soleymani Eissa , Oladi Ziaeddin , Azar Shadi Shayesteh , Parandin Fatemeh , Mizani Azadeh , Mirbadie Seyed Reza , Hajizadeh Fatemeh , Fakhar Mahdi
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Here we present a case of a 4‐year‐old girl who suffered from vulvovaginitis caused by Enterobius vermicularis. All members of her family were also infected by this helminth. Treatment with mebendazole was administered to all family members and it was found that the entire family had been cured.

Vulvovaginitis, an inflammation of the vulvovaginal mucous membranes, is a common reason for pediatric gynecology consultations. One of the causes of this condition is a parasitic worm known as Enterobius vermicularis (E. vermicularis). In girls, adult worms can infiltrate the vagina and release eggs, leading to the development of vulvovaginitis. Furthermore, these worms have the ability to invade the endometrial cavity too. Here we present a case of a 4‐year‐old girl who suffered from vulvovaginitis caused by E. vermicularis. All members of her family were also infected by this parasitic helminth. In the vaginal sample, apart from the eggs, the female adult worm was observed under the microscope. Treatment with mebendazole was administered to all family members, and their progress was followed for a period of 3 weeks, during which it was found that the entire family had been cured. This patient experienced significant improvement in symptoms related to severe anxiety, nervousness, vaginal inflammation, itching, and vulvovaginitis caused by E. vermicularis. To prevent infection by E. vermicularis, it is crucial to disinfect underwear and bed sheets. In kindergartens, the spread of this parasite should not be underestimated, and asymptomatic individuals who have been exposed to infected persons should receive treatment to prevent an epidemic. Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, especially after using the toilet, is of the most importance, particularly for girls who are more susceptible to E. vermicularis infection. Additionally, it is essential for all family members to be aware of the transmission routes of this parasite.
Insight into the Stability of Pentazolyl Derivatives based on Covalent Bond
Authors: Jiang Tianyu , Xia Honglei , Zhang Wenquan , Liu Tianlin
Published: May 2024

Pentazole is regarded as a unique inorganic molecule that possess organic heterocyclic structure. Therefore, the research on pentazolyl derivatives represents a cutting‐edge direction in both contemporary inorganic chemistry and heterocyclic chemistry. Moreover, their synthesis is regarded as the most significant research topic in the field of energetic materials due to the great potential of pentazolyl derivatives to breakthrough the energy bottleneck of CHNO‐based energetic materials. However, synthesizing pentazolyl derivatives is challenging. To provide a theoretical support for the synthesis, we conducted theoretical studies on six single‐ring pentazolyl derivatives with different functional groups. The results suggest that derivatization reduces the bond strength and weakens the aromaticity of the pentazolate ring. Further analysis showed that derivatization mainly affects the π aromaticity of the pentazolate ring, and ultimately causing poor stability of the pentazolyl derivatives. Among the six derivatives investigated in this study, fluoro pentazole (cyclo‐N5‐F) and hydroxyl pentazole (cyclo‐N5‐OH) possess good aromaticity, which is similar to the reported cyclo‐N5‐NCHN(CH3)2. Further calculations show that the kinetic stability of cyclo‐N5‐OH is higher than that of cyclo‐N5‐F. These results collectively indicate that cyclo‐N5‐OH is a promising candidate for synthesizing single‐ring pentazolyl derivatives.
Theoretical Prediction and Comprehensive Characterization of an All‐Nitrogenatomic Ring, Cyclo[18]Nitrogen (N18)
Authors: Lu Tian
Published: May 2024

The cyclic molecule cyclo[18]carbon composed of 18 carbon atoms has been observed in condensed phase experiment in recent years and has attracted great attention. Through state‐of‐art quantum chemistry calculation, this study found that 18 nitrogen atoms can also form a macrocyclic system, cyclo[18]nitrogen (N18), though its lifetime is very short at room temperature and can only exist for a relatively long time at very low temperatures. We comprehensively theoretically studied properties of N18, including geometric configurations, thermal decomposition mechanism and rate, molecular dynamics behavior, energetic properties, vibrational and electronic spectra. We also discussed in depth the electronic structure of N18, including nature of the N−N bonds, lone‐pairs, charge distribution characteristics, electronic delocalization, and aromaticity. This work is not only the first exploration of the macrocyclic N18 molecule, but also the first time to systematically examine a very long‐chain substance fully composed of nitrogen atoms in isolated state.
Harnessing the 3D‐Beacons Network: A Comprehensive Guide to Accessing and Displaying Protein Structure Data
Authors: Magaña Paulyna , Nair Sreenath , Varadi Mihaly , Velankar Sameer
Published: May 2024

Recent advancements in protein structure determination and especially in protein structure prediction techniques have led to the availability of vast amounts of macromolecular structures. However, the accessibility and integration of these structures into scientific workflows are hindered by the lack of standardization among publicly available data resources. To address this issue, we introduced the 3D‐Beacons Network, a unified platform that aims to establish a standardized framework for accessing and displaying protein structure data. In this article, we highlight the importance of standardized approaches for accessing protein structure data and showcase the capabilities of 3D‐Beacons. We describe four protocols for finding and accessing macromolecular structures from various specialist data resources via 3D‐Beacons. First, we describe three scenarios for programmatically accessing and retrieving data using the 3D‐Beacons API. Next, we show how to perform sequence‐based searches to find structures from model providers. Then, we demonstrate how to search for structures and fetch them directly into a workflow using JalView. Finally, we outline the process of facilitating access to data from providers interested in contributing their structures to the 3D‐Beacons Network. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Programmatic access to the 3D‐Beacons API

Basic Protocol 2: Sequence‐based search using the 3D‐Beacons API

Basic Protocol 3: Accessing macromolecules from 3D‐Beacons with JalView

Basic Protocol 4: Enhancing data accessibility through 3D‐Beacons
Application of environmental DNA metabarcoding to identify fish community characteristics in subtropical river systems
Authors: Wang Sai , Wu Dong‐Hai , Song Yong‐Duo , Wang Tuan‐Tuan , Fan Shi‐Di , Wu En‐Ni , Chen Nan‐Lin , Xia Wen‐Tong , Xu Min N. , Chen Zhong‐Bing , Wen Jing , Zhang Yang , Mo Ling , Xiang Lei
Published: May 2024

Fish are vital in river ecosystems; however, traditional investigations of fish usually cause ecological damage. Extracting DNA from aquatic environments and identifying DNA sequences offer an alternative, noninvasive approach for detecting fish species. In this study, the effects of environmental DNA (eDNA), coupled with PCR and next‐generation sequencing, and electrofishing for identifying fish community composition and diversity were compared. In three subtropical rivers of southern China, fish specimens and eDNA in water were collected along the longitudinal (upstream–downstream) gradient of the rivers. Both fish population parameters, including species abundance and biomass, and eDNA OTU richness grouped 38 sampling sites into eight spatial zones with significant differences in local fish community composition. Compared with order‐/family‐level grouping, genus‐/species‐level grouping could more accurately reveal the differences between upstream zones I−III, midstream zones IV−V, and downstream zones VI–VIII. From the headwaters to the estuary, two environmental gradients significantly influenced the longitudinal distribution of the fish species, including the first gradient composed of habitat and physical water parameters and the second gradient composed of chemical water parameters. The high regression coefficient of alpha diversity between eDNA and electrofishing methods as well as the accurate identification of dominant, alien, and biomarker species in each spatial zone indicated that eDNA could characterize fish community attributes at a level similar to that of traditional approaches. Overall, our results demonstrated that eDNA metabarcoding can be used as an effective tool for revealing fish composition and diversity, which is important for using the eDNA technique in aquatic field monitoring.
Why are graminoid species more dominant? Trait‐mediated plant–soil feedbacks shape community composition
Authors: Huang Kailing , De Long Jonathan R. , Yan Xuebin , Wang Xiaoyi , Wang Chunlong , Zhang Yiwei , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Peng , Du Guozhen , van Kleunen Mark , Guo Hui
Published: May 2024

Species traits may determine plant interactions along with soil microbiome, further shaping plant–soil feedbacks (PSFs). However, how plant traits modulate PSFs and, consequently, the dominance of plant functional groups remains unclear. We used a combination of field surveys and a two‐phase PSF experiment to investigate whether forbs and graminoids differed in PSFs and in their trait–PSF associations. When grown in forb‐conditioned soils, forbs experienced stronger negative feedbacks, while graminoids experienced positive feedbacks. Graminoid‐conditioned soil resulted in neutral PSFs for both functional types. Forbs with thin roots and small seeds showed more‐negative PSFs than those with thick roots and large seeds. Conversely, graminoids with acquisitive root and leaf traits (i.e., thin roots and thin leaves) demonstrated greater positive PSFs than graminoids with thick roots and tough leaves. By distinguishing overall and soil biota‐mediated PSFs, we found that the associations between plant traits and PSFs within both functional groups were mainly mediated by soil biota. A simulation model demonstrated that such differences in PSFs could lead to a dominance of graminoids over forbs in natural plant communities, which might explain why graminoids dominate in grasslands. Our study provides new insights into the differentiation and adaptation of plant life‐history strategies under selection pressures imposed by soil biota.
Reduced congestion and improved response to a fluid/sodium challenge in chronic heart failure patients after initiation of sacubitril/valsartan: The NATRIUM‐HF study
Authors: Mebazaa Alexandre , Davison Beth A. , Biegus Jan , Edwards Christopher , Murtagh Gillian , Varounis Christos , Hayrapetyan Hamlet , Sisakian Hamayak , Ter‐Grigoryan Victor R. , Takagi Koji , Novosadova Maria , Ponikowski Piotr , Cotter Gad
Published: May 2024

Aims

The effects of initiating sacubitril/valsartan in patients with stable heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) on response to fluid and sodium expansion are unknown.

Methods and results

We have explored changes in natriuresis, diuresis, and congestion in response to the administration of intravenous fluid/sodium load in patients with HFrEF before as compared to after the initiation of sacubitril/valsartan. At baseline (before sacubitril/valsartan initiation) and 2 and 3 months after the initiation, patients underwent an evaluation that consisted of three phases of 3 h: the rest phase (0–3 h), the load phase (3–6 h) in which 1 L of intravenous Ringer solution was administered, and the diuretic phase (6–9 h) at the beginning of which furosemide was administered. Overall, 216 patients completed the study. In comparison to baseline values, at 2 and 3 months after sacubitril/valsartan initiation, patients' diuresis and natriuresis in response to Ringer administration significantly increased (mean difference: 38.8 [17.38] ml, p = 0.0040, and 9.6 [2.02] mmol, p < 0.0001, respectively). Symptoms and signs of congestion after the fluid/sodium challenge were significantly decreased at months 2 and 3 compared to baseline. Compared to baseline, there was also an increment of natriuresis after furosemide administration on sacubitril/valsartan (9.8 [5.13] mmol, p = 0.0167). There was a significant decrease in body weight in subsequent visits when compared to baseline values (−0.50 [−12.7, 7.4] kg at 2 months, and −0.75 [−15.9, 7.5] kg at 3 months; both p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The initiation of sacubitril/valsartan in HFrEF patients was associated with improvements in natriuresis, diuresis, and weight loss and better clinical adaptation to potentially decongestive stressors.
Improving performance of defect detection by setting skewed tolerance and joint tolerances in crimp force monitor
Authors: Zeng Liancheng , Qin Dali
Published: May 2024

A Crimp Force Monitor (CFM) detects defects by whether the crimp force curve of the force sensor exceeds the set tolerance, with the goal of low defect miss rate and false alarm rate. In this study, typical defects made by hand are crimped with an automatic crimping machine together with good products to obtain continuous data of the crimping force curves and to process the data. For the peak and area deviations of the crimp force curve, the good products show skew‐normal distribution, and the defective samples show outliers and different deviation intensities in the positive and negative directions. Furthermore, by manually intervening in the batch production of multiple groups of defects and comparing the defect miss rate and false alarm rate of CFM with different tolerance settings, the peak skewed tolerance, joint loose tolerance and joint skewed tolerance tree settings can meet a low defect miss rate and low false alarm rate at the same time. The group test results verify the skew‐normal distribution of crimping force curve deviation rate and the characteristics of deviation intensities, providing reference for the tolerance setting of CFM in automated terminal crimping production.
Thermo‐economic analysis of gas‐to‐wire: A case for utilizing gas flaring in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria
Authors: Otuagoma Smith Orode , Eyenubo Ogheneakpobo Jonathan , Owebor Kesiena , Ebisine Ebimene Ezekiel , Okieke Ufuoma Jeffery , Ubara Stella Igho
Published: May 2024

This work investigated the thermo‐economics of gas‐to‐wire as a gas flaring mitigation option in a selected gas production facility, in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, which flares 294 thousand standard cubic feet of natural gas, daily. The thermodynamics and economics aspects of the gas‐to‐wire plant were modeled, and implemented in the Engineering Equation Solver software. The thermodynamics was carried out to ascertain the technical feasibility of the proposed plant, while the economics analysis was done to ensure its cost competitiveness. The findings suggested that 19.2 MW of electricity could be generated from the flare gases. This could be achieved at a life cycle cost of 19.24 billion naira, and a unit cost of energy of 13.47 naira per kWh. Parametric simulation of interest rate, excess combustion air, exit temperature of flue gases, and expansion ratio of gas turbine were also done. Furthermore, the proposed power plant could meet the electricity needs of not less than 60,000 households in Delta State where the gas production facility is located at 550 kWh electricity per capita. The study has shown that gas‐to‐wire is one of the viable approaches to tackle gas flaring activities in Nigeria, to meet both the energy demand of its people and to preserve the environment. Thus, it is recommended that the Federal Government of Nigeria should give gas‐to‐wire a priority in its gas flaring utilization agenda.
Are professional forecasters inattentive to public discussions about inflation? The case of Argentina
Authors: Aromí J. Daniel , Llada Martín
Published: May 2024

We evaluate whether professional forecasters incorporate valuable information from public discussions on social media. The study covers the case of inflation in Argentina for the period 2016–2022. We find solid evidence consistent with inattention. A simple indicator of attention to inflation on social media is shown to anticipate professional forecast errors. A one standard deviation increment in the indicator is followed by a rise of 0.4% in mean forecast errors in the subsequent month and by a cumulative increment of 0.7% over the next 6 months. Furthermore, social media content anticipates significant revisions in forecasts that target multiple months ahead inflation and calendar year inflation. These findings are different from previously documented forms of inattention. Consistent results are verified by implementing out‐of‐sample forecasts and using content from an alternative social network. The study has implications for the use of professional forecasts in the context of policymaking and sheds new evidence on the nature of imperfect information in macroeconomics.
The asymmetry in day and night option returns: Evidence from an emerging market
Authors: Bhat Aparna , Pandey Piyush , Nageswara Rao S. V. D.
Published: May 2024

Delta‐hedged option selling strategies typically yield positive returns, owing to the volatility risk premium embedded in the option price. Recent research based on S&P 500 options has found a day–night asymmetry in option returns. We find a similar disparity in the returns for short Nifty option strategies. Positive and significant overnight option returns are accompanied by negative intraday returns. The day–night asymmetry is robust across option categories and subsamples but weaker on days with significant jumps in the underlying. We confirm that the variance risk premium earned by option sellers is mainly a reward for overnight risk.
Terrorism and education: Evidence from instrumental variables estimators
Authors: Alfano Marco , Görlach Joseph‐Simon
Published: May 2024

This paper estimates the effect of exposure to terrorist violence on education. Since terrorists may choose targets endogenously, we construct a set of novel instruments. To that end, we leverage exogenous variation from a local terrorist group's revenues and its affiliation with al‐Qaeda. Across several Kenyan datasets, we find that attacks suppress school enrolment more than predicted by difference‐in‐differences‐type estimators. This indicates that terrorists target areas experiencing unobserved, positive shocks. Evidence suggests fears and concerns as mechanisms of impact, rather than educational supply.
Choline chloride shows gender‐dependent positive effects on social deficits, learning/memory impairments, neuronal loss and neuroinflammation in the lipopolysaccharide‐induced rat model of autism
Authors: Egilmez Cansu Bilister , Pazarlar Burcu Azak , Erdogan Mumin Alper , Uyanikgil Yiğit , Erbas Oytun
Published: May 2024

The neuroprotective effects of choline chloride, an essential nutrient, a precursor for the acetylcholine and synthesis of membrane phospholipids, have been associated with neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Its contribution to autism spectrum disorder, a neurodevelopmental disorder, remains unknown. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of choline chloride on social behaviours, and histopathological and biochemical changes in a rat autism model. The autism model was induced by administration of 100 μg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the 10th day of gestation. Choline chloride treatment (100 mg/kg/day) was commenced on PN5 and maintained until PN50. Social deficits were assessed by three‐chamber sociability, open field, and passive avoidance learning tests. Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin‐2 (IL) and IL‐17, nerve growth factor (NGF), and glutamate decarboxylase 67 (GAD67) levels were measured to assess neuroinflammatory responses. In addition, the number of hippocampal and cerebellar neurons and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression were evaluated. Social novelty and passive avoidance learning tests revealed significant differences in choline chloride‐treated male rats compared with saline‐treated groups. TNF‐α, IL‐2, and IL‐17 were significantly decreased after choline chloride treatment in both males and females. NGF and GAD67 levels were unchanged in females, while there were significant differences in males. Histologically, significant changes in terms of gliosis were detected in hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions and cerebellum in choline chloride‐treated groups. The presence of ameliorative effects of choline chloride treatment on social behaviour and neuroinflammation through neuroinflammatory, neurotrophic, and neurotransmission pathways in a sex‐dependent rat model of LPS‐induced autism was demonstrated.
Endoscopic mucosal phenotypes and endoscopic Sydney system gastritis assessment in relation to Helicobacter pylori infection and upper digestive clinical signs: A 2‐year study among patients with gastroduodenal disorders in Cameroon
Authors: Tali Nguefak Lionel Danny , Faujo Nintewoue Ghislaine Florice , Stanley Ngimgoh Ngemeshe , Talla Paul , Ngatcha Ghislaine , Tagni Sartre Michele , Jude‐Marcel Nzoume Nsope Mengang , Paul Dzoyem Jean , Kouitcheu Mabeku Laure Brigitte
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim

Helicobacter pylori represents the major pathogen in the pathophysiology of diverse gastrointestinal conditions. This study sought to determine the endoscopic aspect of the gastric mucosa in relation to H. pylori infection in Cameroon.

Methods

This study was conducted in three reference health facilities in Cameroon from October 2020 to October 2022. The study enrolled 494 consecutive volunteer dyspeptic patients attending to the gastroenterology department of the selected health facilities. A description of the aspect of gastric mucosa of all participants was performed during endoscopy examination, and biopsies were collected for H. pylori detection using rapid urease tests.

Results

Gastritis, ulcerated lesions, duodenitis, esophagitis, normal mucosa aspect, bulbitis, and gastric neoplastic lesions were found in 40.1, 22.3, 10.9, 10.3, 9.7, 6.3, and 0.40% of biopsy samples, respectively. Erythematous/exudative (45.9%) and enterogastric reflux (12.2%) were the main gastritis types recorded. H. pylori was present in 58.1, 46.3, 87.1, 66.7, and 61.8% in gastritis, duodenitis, bulbitis, esophagitis, and ulcerated lesions, respectively. A positive relationship was noticed between the presence of H. pylori and gastritis (1.037 [0.720–1.493]; P = 0.845), bulbitis (4.237 [1.602–11.235]; P = 0.004), esophagitis (1.515 [0.822–2.793]; P = 0.183), ulcerated lesions (1.233 [0.798–1.904]; P = 0.345), erythematous/exudative gastritis (1.354 [0.768–2.389]; P = 0.295), and enterogastric reflux gastritis (1.159 [0.492–2.733]; P = 0.736).

Conclusion

Gastritis and erythematous/exudative gastritis are the most frequent gastrointestinal pathophysiology conditions in dyspeptic patient in our milieu. H. pylori infection is responsible for 94.8% of the gastrointestinal pathophysiology conditions with bulbitis as the condition is significantly associated with this bacterium infection.
Local degree conditions for K9 ${K}_{9}$‐minors in graphs
Authors: Akiyama Takashige
Published: May 2024

We prove that if each edge of a graph belongs to at least seven triangles, then contains a ‐minor or contains as an induced subgraph. This result was conjectured by Albar and Gonçalves in 2018. Moreover, we apply this result to study the stress freeness of graphs.
Correlated evolution of beak and braincase morphology is present only in select bird clades
Authors: Xu Xiaoni , Natale Rossy
Published: May 2024

Complex morphological structures, such as skulls or limbs, are often composed of multiple morphological components (e.g., bones, sets of bones) that may evolve in a covaried manner with one another. Previous research has reached differing conclusions on the number of semi‐independent units, or modules, that exist in the evolution of structures and on the strength of the covariation, or integration, between these hypothesized modules. We focus on the avian skull as an example of a complex morphological structure for which highly variable conclusions have been reached in the numerous studies analyzing support for a range of simple to complex modularity hypotheses. We hypothesized that past discrepancies may stem from both the differing densities of data used to analyze support for modularity hypotheses and the differing taxonomic levels of study. To test these hypotheses, we applied a comparative method to 3D geometric morphometric data collected from the skulls of a diverse order of birds (the Charadriiformes) to test support for 11 distinct hypotheses of modular skull evolution. Across all Charadriiformes, our analyses suggested that charadriiform skull evolution has been characterized by the semi‐independent, but still correlated, evolution of the beak from the rest of the skull. When we adjusted the density of our morphometric data, this result held, but the strength of the signal varied substantially. Additionally, when we analyzed subgroups within the order in isolation, we found support for distinct hypotheses between subgroups. Taken together, these results suggest that differences in the methodology of past work (i.e., statistical method and data density) as well as clade‐specific dynamics may be the reasons past studies have reached varying conclusions.
Instability Severity Index Score predicts recurrent shoulder instability after arthroscopic Bankart repair
Authors: van Blommestein Matthijs Y. H. , Govaert Lonneke H. M. , van der Palen Job , Verra Wiebe C. , Koorevaar Rinco C. T. , Schröder Femke F. , Veen Egbert Jan D.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The Instability Severity Index (ISI) Score was developed to preoperatively assess the risk of recurrent shoulder instability after an arthroscopic Bankart repair. This study aims to validate the use of ISI Score for predicting the risk of recurrence after an arthroscopic Bankart repair in a heterogeneous population and proposes an appropriate cut‐off point for treating patients with an arthroscopic Bankart repair or otherwise.

Methods

This study analysed 99 shoulders after a traumatic dislocation that underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with at least 3 years follow‐up. Patients were divided into subcategories based on their respective ISI Score. Recurrence includes either a postoperative dislocation or perceived instability.

Results

The overall recurrence rate was found to be 26.3%. A significant correlation was identified between ISI Score and the recurrence rate (odds ratio [OR]: 1.545, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.231–1.939, p < 0.001). Furthermore, ISI Score 4–6 (OR: 4.498, 95% CI: 1.866–10.842, p < 0.001) and ISI Score > 6 (OR: 7.076, 95% CI: 2.393–20.924, p < 0.001) both had a significantly higher risk of recurrence compared to ISI Score 0–3. In ISI Score subcategories 0–3, 4–6 and >6, the recurrence rate was, respectively, 15.4%, 40.7% and 71.4%.

Conclusion

ISI Score has predictive value in determining the recurrence risk of shoulder instability following an arthroscopic Bankart repair in a heterogeneous population. Based on the findings of this study, we recommend using arthroscopic Bankart repair in patients with ISI Score 0–3. Clinical and shared decision‐making are essential in the group with ISI Score 4–6, since the recurrence rate is significantly higher than in patients with ISI Score 0–3. Arthroscopic Bankart repair is not suitable for patients with ISI Score > 6.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Use of THRIVE for Apneic Oxygenation in Transoral Laser Microlaryngeal Surgery: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ananthapadmanabhan Saikrishna , Gan Yijin J. , Kudpaje Akshay , Raju Dinesh , Smith Mark , Riffat Faruque , Novakovic Daniel , Stokan Murray , Palme Carsten E.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Trans‐nasal humidified rapid insufflation ventilatory exchange (THRIVE) has demonstrated utility in extending the apneic window in the perioperative setting. Its benefits in facilitating tubeless anesthesia are recognized during elective laryngotracheal surgeries. The use of THRIVE and administering higher fractional inspired oxygen concentrations in laser laryngeal surgery (LLS) remains controversial due to the theoretical risk of airway fires. A scoping review of the literature describing institutional experiences with THRIVE during LLS was conducted.

Data Sources and Review Methods

A systematic scoping review of the literature was performed including PubMed, Medline, Embase, Scopus, JBI EBP Database, and Cochrane Library from inception to April 2023.

Results

From the 472 articles identified in our review, nine articles were included representing 271 cases. THRIVE was used for preoxygenation and to maintain apneic oxygenation during LLS. Different institutional practices related to THRIVE parameters and intraoperative modifications during lasing were described in the literature, including cessation of THRIVE, reduction of FiO2 to 30%, and continuous 100% FiO2 oxygenation. One study described a brief ignition of the coating of a KTP laser fiber without injury to the patient. No adverse patient outcomes have been documented in the literature with THRIVE during LLS.

Conclusion

THRIVE is a safe and effective form of tubeless anesthesia and apneic oxygenation during LLS, with no adverse patient safety events reported in the literature. Key determinants to maintain safety include optimal patient and team selection, effective surgeon‐anesthetist cooperation, and institutional protocols that govern intraoperative practice. Laryngoscope, 134:4203–4212, 2024
Novel insight into FCSK‐congenital disorder of glycosylation through a CRISPR‐generated cell model
Authors: Fazelzadeh Haghighi Maryam , Jafari Khamirani Hossein , Fallahi Jafar , Monfared Ali Arabi , Ashrafi Dehkordi Korosh , Tabei Seyed Mohammad Bagher
Published: May 2024

Background

FCSK‐congenital disorder of glycosylation (FCSK‐CDG) is a recently discovered rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder with defective fucosylation due to mutations in the fucokinase encoding gene, FCSK. Despite the essential role of fucokinase in the fucose salvage pathway and severe multisystem manifestations of FCSK‐CDG patients, it is not elucidated which cells or which types of fucosylation are affected by its deficiency.

Methods

In this study, CRISPR/Cas9 was employed to construct an FCSK‐CDG cell model and explore the molecular mechanisms of the disease by lectin flow cytometry and real‐time PCR analyses.

Results

Comparison of cellular fucosylation by lectin flow cytometry in the created CRISPR/Cas9 FCSK knockout and the same unedited cell lines showed no significant change in the amount of cell surface fucosylated glycans, which is consistent with the only documented previous study on different cell types. It suggests a probable effect of this disease on secretory glycoproteins. Investigating O‐fucosylation by analysis of the NOTCH3 gene expression as a potential target revealed a significant decrease in the FCSK knockout cells compared with the same unedited ones, proving the effect of fucokinase deficiency on EGF‐like repeats O‐fucosylation.

Conclusion

This study expands insight into the FCSK‐CDG molecular mechanism; to the best of our knowledge, it is the first research conducted to reveal a gene whose expression level alters due to this disease.
An efficient wavelet method for the time‐fractional Black–Scholes equations
Authors: Yuttanan Boonrod , Razzaghi Mohsen , Vo Thieu N.
Published: May 2024

A European option is one of the common types of options in financial markets, which can be modeled by a time‐fractional parabolic PDE, known as the time‐fractional Black–Scholes equation (BSE). In this article, we propose an effective numerical scheme by applying Müntz–Legendre wavelets (MLW) for the solution of the given BSE. Different from classical wavelets (such as Legendre and Chebyshev), the MLW have an extra parameter representing the fractional order. Therefore, they provide more reliable results for certain fractional calculus problems. The convergence analysis of the method is provided in detail. Several test examples are given to illustrate the advantages of MLW over other classical wavelets and the high accuracy of this technique compared to existing methods in the literature.
Comparative analysis of real‐world adherence and persistence patterns with vibegron, mirabegron, and anticholinergics in patients with overactive bladder: A retrospective claims study
Authors: Chastek Benjamin , Carrera Adam , Landis Christina , Snyder Daniel , Abedinzadeh Laleh , Bancroft Tim , Nesheim Jeffrey , Kennelly Michael , Staskin David
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Vibegron is a selective β3‐adrenergic receptor agonist that was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in December 2020 for the treatment of overactive bladder in adults. This retrospective study assessed US pharmacy claims data to evaluate the real‐world adherence and persistence of vibegron compared with mirabegron and with anticholinergics.

Materials and Methods

This analysis used the Optum Research Database to identify adults with ≥1 pharmacy claim for vibegron, mirabegron, or an anticholinergic from April 1, 2021, to August 31, 2022. Patients had ≥ 90 days of continuous commercial or Medicare medical and pharmacy coverage preindex and ≥ 60 days of continuous pharmacy coverage postindex. Two independent propensity‐score models matched patients treated with (1) vibegron versus mirabegron and (2) vibegron versus anticholinergics on key variables such as demographics and clinical characteristics, index copay, days' supply, and time of entry into analysis (index quarter). Adherence was measured by proportion of days covered (PDC) from index to the end of follow‐up and was defined as PDC ≥ 80%. Persistence was defined as days to discontinuation of index medication (first 30‐day gap) or end of follow‐up.

Results

The matched vibegron and mirabegron cohorts included 4921 and 9842 patients, respectively, and the matched vibegron and anticholinergic cohorts included 4676 and 9352 patients, respectively. Patients receiving vibegron had greater mean PDC versus patients receiving mirabegron (0.67 vs. 0.64, respectively; p < 0.001) or anticholinergics (0.67 vs. 0.58; p < 0.001). A greater percentage of patients receiving vibegron were adherent versus those receiving mirabegron (49.0% vs. 45.1%, respectively; p < 0.001) or anticholinergics (49.1% vs. 38.5%; p < 0.001). Persistence was longer with vibegron compared with both mirabegron (median [95% CI], 171 [159–182] vs. 128 [122–137] days, respectively; p < 0.001) and anticholinergics (172 [159–183] vs. 91 [91] days; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this retrospective analysis of pharmacy claims data, patients receiving vibegron exhibited significantly higher adherence and demonstrated longer persistence in comparison to matched patient cohorts receiving either mirabegron or anticholinergics.
Space‐time stochastic Galerkin boundary elements for acoustic scattering problems
Authors: Gimperlein Heiko , Meyer Fabian , Özdemir Ceyhun
Published: May 2024

Acoustic emission or scattering problems naturally involve uncertainties about the sound sources or boundary conditions. This article initiates the study of time domain boundary elements for such stochastic boundary problems for the acoustic wave equation. We present a space‐time stochastic Galerkin boundary element method which is applied to sound‐hard, sound‐soft and absorbing scatterers. Uncertainties in both the sources and the boundary conditions are considered using a polynomial chaos expansion. The numerical experiments illustrate the performance and convergence of the proposed method in model problems and present an application to a problem from traffic noise.
Study on the characteristics of glass fiber‐reinforced polymers from recycled wind turbine blades as reinforcement in particleboard
Authors: Zhang Hualei , Zheng Nihua , Xing Tong , Zhang Guozhu , Cao Dong , Bai Yuyong , Wang Shixin , Zuo Dekang , Liu Hongguang , Li Li , Luo Bin , Peng Siwei
Published: May 2024

Glass fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP), extensively employed in diverse industries, generates considerable waste, especially from decommissioned wind turbine blades. Our research group has developed a new method of mechanical recovery for GFRP from wind turbine blades. In this study, waste GFRP was processed into a mixed particle size of 0.9–6 mm using a crusher and a screening machine, and then added as reinforcement materials to particleboards. The effects of different levels of four factors (GFRP addition, hot pressing temperature, hot pressing time, and binder dosage) on the properties of GFRP particleboards were evaluated by orthogonal experiments. The study results showed that the particleboards with 30 wt% GFRP improved modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and internal bonding strength (IB) by 74.94%, 42.28%, and 92.05%, respectively, compared to pure poplar particleboards. Moreover, GFRP particleboards demonstrated better water resistance and dimensional stability than commercial particleboards and excelled in thermal stability. Recycling GFRP waste from decommissioned wind turbine blades and incorporating it into particleboard production can reduce environmental pollution, increase the resource recovery utilization rate, and contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices.

Highlights

Low‐cost and efficient methods of recycling wind turbine blades were proposed.

Recycled GFRP from wind turbine blades can be used as reinforcement for particleboard.

The prepared particleboards have excellent physical and mechanical properties and are thermally stable.

Determination of the optimal glass fiber‐reinforced polymer addition level in particleboard at 30 wt%.
Effects of compound compatibilizer and CaTiO3 filler on the properties of polypropylene/polyphenylene ether/glass fiber composites
Authors: Xiao Longtao , Liang Fei , Zhou Zikang
Published: May 2024

The present study used polyphenylene ether/Polypropylene/glass fiber (PPO/PP/GF) composites as the matrix material to obtain the dielectric plate material to be used in the dielectric phase shifters for 5G base stations. First, the reinforcement effect of the compound compatibilizers comprising PP‐g‐MAH and SEBS‐g‐MAH on the PPO/PP/GF composites was investigated. The experimental results revealed that the compound compatibilizers could dramatically improve the compatibility and performance of the PP/PPO/GF composites through synergistic compatibility. Next, the crystallization effect of CaTiO3 fillers on the PPO/PP/GF composites was investigated. The DSC analysis revealed that using a small amount of CaTiO3 promoted the crystallization of PP, while using a large amount of CaTiO3 inhibited the crystallization effect. At a compatibilizer content of 6 wt% and CaTiO3 in the range of 10–85 wt%, the CaTiO3/PP/PPO/GF composite presented a continuously adjustable dielectric constant (εr = 2.32–20.9), low dielectric loss (tanδ < 0.0019), and high heat resistance (VST = 169.5–177°C), and could, therefore, be used as a dielectric plate material in the dielectric phase shifters for 5G base stations.

Highlights

The compound compatibilizers comprising PP‐g‐MAH and SEBS‐g‐MAH could dramatically improve the compatibility and performance of the PP/PPO/GF composites through synergistic compatibility.

A small amount of CaTiO3 promoted the crystallization of PP and a large amount of CaTiO3 inhibited the crystallization effect.

The CaTiO3/PP/PPO/GF composites could serve as ideal dielectric plate materials in the development of dielectric phase shifters for 5G base stations.
Risk of acute pancreatitis among new users of empagliflozin compared to sulfonylureas in patients with type 2 diabetes: A post‐authorization safety study
Authors: Fazeli Farsani Soulmaz , Iglay Kristy , Zhang Ling , Niyonkuru Christian , Nessralla Laurieann , Girman Cynthia J.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study was undertaken to evaluate the potential risk of acute pancreatitis with empagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) newly initiating empagliflozin.

Methods

Data from two large US claims databases were analyzed in an observational study of patients with T2D receiving metformin who were newly prescribed empagliflozin versus sulfonylurea (SU). Because dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists have been associated with the risk of acute pancreatitis in some studies, patients on these agents were excluded. Using pooled analyses of data from the two databases (2014–2021), patients initiating empagliflozin were matched 1:1 within database to patients initiating SU using propensity scores (PS) that incorporated relevant demographic and clinical characteristics. Prespecified sensitivity analyses were performed for design parameters.

Results

The analyses identified 72 661 new users of empagliflozin and 422 018 new users of SUs, with both patient groups on concurrent metformin therapy. Baseline characteristics within treatment groups appeared to be similar across the 72 621 matched pairs. After mean follow‐up of ~6 months, incidence rates of acute pancreatitis in the pooled matched cohort were 10.30 (95% confidence interval [CI] 9.29–11.39) events per 1000 patient‐years (PY) for empagliflozin and 11.65 (95% CI 10.59–12.77) events per 1000 PY for SUs. On a background of metformin, patients newly initiating empagliflozin did not have an increased risk of acute pancreatitis compared with those initiating an SU (pooled PS matched hazard ratio 0.88 [0.76–1.02]) across 75621.42 PY of follow‐up.

Conclusions

The results of this voluntary post‐approval safety study provide additional evidence that the use of empagliflozin for the treatment of T2D is not associated with an increased risk of acute pancreatitis.
Functional Soft Materials with Resistance to Liquid Leakage for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Zhang Haiquan , Fang Qiaoming , Wang Fege , Cao Bozhou , Wang Ling , He Wei , Chen Songjiao , Wang Ning
Published: May 2024

Functional soft materials have great potential commercial applications in thermal energy storage, which are required to have a long life, good flexibility, and resistance to liquid leakage. Herein, a composite hydrogel with thermal storage properties is prepared through coupling molecular self‐assembly and in situ polymerization. Hydrophobic stearic acid (SA), as a thermal storage phase change material (PCM), is dispersed in polyacrylamide (PAM) hydrogel network in the form of oil–water emulsion (O/W). The PAM polymer network with good flexibility physically limits high‐frequency collision between SA PCM droplets. This unique design avoids demulsification in phase change emulsion so that the as‐prepared hydrogel composite can resist liquid leakage. The PAM hydrogel network plays the role of heterogeneous nucleation, resulting in the super‐cooling of SA emulsion at only 0.3 °C. On the other hand, SA PCM droplets in as‐prepared soft material do not directly contact with liquid water, so melting/crystallization process is independent of water. As a result, the soft material exhibits a thermal storage density of up to 99.3 J g−1. The present study is an important step toward designing soft energy storage materials.
ProBAN: Neural network algorithm for predicting binding affinity in protein–protein complexes
Authors: Bogdanova Elizaveta Alexandrovna , Novoseletsky Valery Nikolaevich
Published: May 2024

Determining binding affinities in protein–protein and protein–peptide complexes is a challenging task that directly impacts the development of peptide and protein pharmaceuticals. Although several models have been proposed to predict the value of the dissociation constant and the Gibbs free energy, they are currently not capable of making stable predictions with high accuracy, in particular for complexes consisting of more than two molecules. In this work, we present ProBAN, a new method for predicting binding affinity in protein–protein complexes based on a deep convolutional neural network. Prediction is carried out for the spatial structures of complexes, presented in the format of a 4D tensor, which includes information about the location of atoms and their abilities to participate in various types of interactions realized in protein–protein and protein–peptide complexes. The effectiveness of the model was assessed both on an internal test data set containing complexes consisting of three or more molecules, as well as on an external test for the PPI‐Affinity service. As a result, we managed to achieve the best prediction quality on these data sets among all the analyzed models: on the internal test, Pearson correlation R = 0.6, MAE = 1.60, on the external test, R = 0.55, MAE = 1.75. The open‐source code, the trained ProBAN model, and the collected dataset are freely available at the following link https://github.com/EABogdanova/ProBAN.