bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body size and three estimates of skeletal age: Relationships with strength and motor performance among male soccer players 9–12 and 13–16 years
Authors: Malina Robert M. , Freitas Duarte , Skrzypczak Mateusz , Konarski Jan M.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To estimate the associations between height, weight, and three estimates of skeletal age (SA) and the strength and motor performance of male soccer players in two chronological age (CA) groups, 9–12 (n = 60) and 13–16 (n = 52) years.

Methods

Height, weight, strength (grip), speed (5 m, 20 m sprints), acceleration (time at crossing 10 m in 20 m sprint), agility (figure‐of‐eight run), power (vertical jump), and endurance (intermittent shuttle run) were measured. SA was assessed with the TW2 RUS, TW3 RUS, and Fels methods; each SA was expressed as the standardized residual of the regression of SA on CA (SAsr). Hierarchical multiple regression was used.

Results

Body size accounted for ≥50% of the variance in grip strength in both CA groups; the body size × SAsr for each method and SAsr alone added little to the explained variance. Body size, body size × SAsr interactions, and SAsr per se with each method accounted for small percentages of variance in motor tasks among players 9–12 years, while body size explained a larger proportion of variance in motor tasks (except the endurance run) among players 13–16 years; body size × SAsr interactions for TW2 and TW3 more so than Fels added to the explained variances. For the endurance run, only SAsr per se with each method accounted for significant portions of the variance.

Conclusion

Body size and the three estimates of SA significantly influenced strength and motor performance, but the explained variance varied between CA groups and among SA methods and performance tasks.
“Off‐Label Use” of the Siderophore Enterobactin Enables Targeted Imaging of Cancer with Radioactive Ti(IV)
Authors: Koller Angus J. , Glaser Owen , DeLuca Molly C. , Motz Rachel N. , Amason Edith K. , Carbo‐Bague Imma , Mixdorf Jason C. , Guzei Ilia A. , Aluicio‐Sarduy Eduardo , Śmiłowicz Dariusz , Barnhart Todd E. , Ramogida Caterina F. , Nolan Elizabeth M. , Engle Jonathan W. , Boros Eszter
Published: March 2024

The development of inert, biocompatible chelation methods is required to harness the emerging positron emitting radionuclide 45Ti for radiopharmaceutical applications. Herein, we evaluate the Ti(IV)‐coordination chemistry of four catechol‐based, hexacoordinate chelators using synthetic, structural, computational, and radiochemical approaches. The siderophore enterobactin (Ent) and its synthetic mimic TREN‐CAM readily form mononuclear Ti(IV) species in aqueous solution at neutral pH. Radiolabeling studies reveal that Ent and TREN‐CAM form mononuclear complexes with the short‐lived, positron‐emitting radionuclide 45Ti(IV), and do not transchelate to plasma proteins in vitro and exhibit rapid renal clearance in naïve mice. These features guide efforts to target the 45Ti isotope to prostate cancer tissue through the design, synthesis, and evaluation of Ent‐DUPA, a small molecule conjugate composed of a prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) targeting peptide and a monofunctionalized Ent scaffold. The [45Ti][Ti(Ent‐DUPA)]2− complex forms readily at room temperature. In a tumor xenograft model in mice, selective tumor tissue accumulation (8±5 %, n=5), and low off‐target uptake in other organs is observed. Overall, this work demonstrates targeted imaging with 45Ti(IV), provides a foundation for advancing the application of 45Ti in nuclear medicine, and reveals that Ent can be repurposed as a 45Ti‐complexing cargo for targeted nuclear imaging applications.
Impact of COVID‐19 lockdown in England on challenging behaviour and adaptive skills for children in a special school: A longitudinal study
Authors: Nicholls Gemma , Thompson Paul A. , Grindle Corinna F. , Hastings Richard P.
Published: March 2024

Longitudinal research is crucial to fully assess the putative impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on children with an intellectual disability in special school settings—ideally drawing on data pre‐pandemic to be able to evaluate later impact. Data on challenging behaviour and adaptive skills were collected annually for 348 students in one special school across four time points pre‐pandemic and one time point post‐pandemic. Data were analysed using multilevel models with repeated observations over the five time points. There was a decrease in aggressive and destructive behaviours and a decrease in adaptive skills at the post‐pandemic time point, after accounting for other important covariates. There was no evidence of a change in stereotyped or self‐injurious challenging behaviours. Other research using longitudinal methods is rare, but the current findings are consistent with previous research reporting on the impact of COVID‐19 on children and young people, particularly from parent reports. Future considerations for schools include adopting appropriate strategies to support learners to reintegrate back into education. Further research is needed to look at the longer‐term impact of the pandemic on challenging behaviour in children with an intellectual disability.
A novel n‐UV convertible colour‐tunable emitting oxynitride phosphor: Realization based on Ce3+‐Tb3+ energy transfer
Authors: You Huanhuan , Huang Xiaoyu , Zhang Xingda , Jin Piaopiao , Xu Zhaopeng , Zhai Jing , Gao Faming , Jia Yongchao
Published: March 2024

In the present work, a novel n‐UV convertible colour‐tunable emitting phosphor was obtained based on the efficient Ce3+‐Tb3+ energy transfer in the Y10Al2Si3O18N4 host. By properly controlling the ratio of Ce3+/Tb3+, the colour hue of the obtained powder covered the blue and green regions, under excitation of 365 nm. The steady‐state and dynamic‐state luminescence measurement was performed to shed light on the related mechanism, which was justified by the electronic dipole–quadrupole dominating the related energy transfer process. Preliminary studies showed that Y10Al2Si3O18N4:Ce3+,Tb3+ can be promising as an inorganic phosphor for white LED applications.
Reversible Influence of Hemipiperazine Photochromism on the Early Development of Zebrafish Embryo
Authors: Seliwjorstow Angelika , Takamiya Masanari , Rastegar Sepand , Pianowski Zbigniew
Published: March 2024

This study explores the potential of controlling organismal development with light by using reversible photomodulation of activity in bioactive compounds. Specifically, our research focuses on plinabulin 1, an inhibitor of tubulin dynamics that contains a photochromic motif called hemipiperazine. The two isomeric forms, Z‐1 and E‐1, can partially interconvert with light, yet show remarkable thermal stability in darkness. The Z‐isomer exhibits higher cytotoxicity due to stronger binding to α‐tubulin's colchicine site. The less toxic E‐1 form, considered a “pro‐drug”, can be isolated in vitro and stored. Upon activation by blue or cyan light, it predominantly generates the more toxic Z‐1 form. Here we demonstrate that 1 can effectively photomodulate epiboly, a critical microtubule‐dependent cell movement during gastrulation in zebrafish embryos. This research highlights the potential of photomodulation for precise and reversible control of cellular activities and organismal development.
“Insufficient evidence” for screening for speech/language delays under age 5
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2024

In January the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) announced that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for speech and language delay and disorders in children 5 years or younger who don't show any signs or symptoms of delays.
Why stronger overdose rescue medications are needed in fentanyl era
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2024

Stories of overdose deaths greatly outnumber stories of withdrawal precipitated by the use of rescue medications such as naloxone. In fact, the illicit fentanyl supply is so strong that the standard dose of intranasal naloxone — 4 milligrams — is no longer enough in most cases, unless there is oxygen supplementation.
Dry fractionation of Australian mungbean for sustainable production of value‐added protein concentrate ingredients
Authors: Skylas Daniel J. , Whiteway Chris , Johnson Joel B. , Messina Valeria , Kalitsis John , Cheng Shu , Langrish Timothy A. G. , Quail Ken J.
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives

Dry fractionation, combining milling and air classification technology, offers an economical and sustainable pathway for the processing of value‐added protein ingredients from Australia's major pulse crops. Leveraging a wider range of pulses will help meet the growing demand for plant‐based protein ingredients. This study demonstrates the efficient processing of protein concentrates from Australian mungbean, which were characterized for key nutritional properties, phytochemical constituents, protein quality, and protein secondary structure.

Findings

Milling and air classification of mungbean flour resulted in protein concentrates (fine fraction) with a protein content of 62.2 g/100 g (db), reflecting a two‐fold increase in protein content compared to the original flour (p < .05). Ash, fat, dietary fiber, and free phenolic and antioxidant compounds, also co‐concentrated with protein in the fine fraction (p < .05), imparting enhanced nutritional properties with the potential to deliver health benefits. The protein quality of dry fractionated mungbean protein concentrate was compared to a commercial source of mungbean protein isolate (88 g/100 g, [db]). Amino acid scores highlighted deficiencies in sulfur‐containing amino acids, methionine, and cysteine, as well as tryptophan and threonine. In vitro protein digestibility‐corrected amino acid scores for the mungbean protein concentrate and protein isolate were 63.7% and 59.5%, respectively. SDS‐PAGE protein profiles showed no major differences in protein composition, indicating that no specific types of proteins are lost during the dry fractionation process. Fourier transform infrared analysis of protein secondary structure showed that β‐sheets were the dominant structural component, with relative percentages of 36% and 49%, for the mungbean protein concentrate and isolate, respectively.

Conclusions

There is significant potential for dry fractionation to deliver value‐added opportunities for Australian mungbean, through the production of protein concentrate ingredients with enhanced nutritional properties for use in new and existing foods.

Significance and Novelty

Nutritional properties, protein quality, and protein secondary structure were compared for protein concentrates and protein isolates processed from Australian‐grown mungbean. Key findings from this study will inform pulse protein processors and pulse‐based food manufacturers.
Developing multifruit global near‐infrared model to predict dry matter based on just‐in‐time modeling
Authors: Mishra Puneet
Published: March 2024

Modeling near‐infrared (NIR) spectral data to predict fresh fruit properties is a challenging task. The difficulty lies in creating generalized models that can work on fruits of different cultivars, seasons, and even multiple commodities of fruit. Due to intrinsic differences in spectral properties, NIR models often fail in testing, resulting in high bias and prediction errors. One current solution for achieving generalized models is to use large calibration sets measured over multiple cultivars and harvest seasons. However, current practice primarily focuses on calibration sets for single fruit commodities, disregarding the rich information available from other fruit commodities. This study aims to demonstrate the potential of locally weighted partial least‐squares an example of just‐in‐time (JIT) modeling to develop real‐time models based on calibration sets consisting of multiple fruit commodities. The study also explores JIT modeling for leveraging relevant information from other fruit commodities or adapting the model based on new samples. The application demonstrated here predicts the dry matter in fresh fruit using portable NIR spectroscopy. The results show that JIT modeling is particularly effective for multiple fruit commodities in a single calibration set. The JIT models achieved a root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.69% fresh weight (FW), while the traditional partial least squares (PLS) modeling RMSEP was 0.93% FW. JIT modeling can be particularly beneficial when the user has multiple fruit datasets and wants to combine them into a single dataset to utilize all the relevant information available.
Non‐Templated Assembly of D5h‐Symmetric Pd5L10 Rings by Precise Ligand Angle Adjustment
Authors: Neukirch Laura , Kulas Milan D. , Holstein Julian J. , Clever Guido H.
Published: March 2024

We report a series of Pd(II)nL2n coordination rings for which nuclearity is controlled by the binding angle of the corresponding bis‐monodentate bridging ligands. Judicious choice of the angle within a family of rather rigid ligands allowed for the first‐time to synthesize a homoleptic five‐membered Pd5L10 ring that does not require any template to form. We demonstrate that control over the ring size is maintained both in the solid‐, solution‐, and gas‐phase. Two X‐ray structures of five‐membered rings from ligands with ideal angles (yielding a perfect pentagonal ring) vs. suboptimal angles (resulting in a highly distorted structure) illustrate the importance of the correct ligand geometry. A mathematical model for estimating the expected ring size based on the ligand angle was derived and DFT computations show that ring‐strain is the major factor determining the assembly outcome.
Short time effects of two radiofrequency ablation methods on hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Authors: He Yin‐ge , Dong Yong , Yang Shao‐hua , Yang Fan , Yin Jin‐Lei , Zhao Hui‐qin , Zhao Yu‐jie
Published: March 2024

Background

Radiofrequency ablation has been applied for the treatment of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). The two known procedures are percutaneous intramyocardial septal radiofrequency ablation (PIMSRA) and endocardial radiofrequency septal ablation (ERSA).

Methods

This study presents a retrospective analysis of the PIMSRA and ERSA procedures in patients with drug‐refractory HOCM. A total of 28 patients participated in the study, with 12 receiving PIMSRA and 16 receiving ERSA. The objective of our study was to compare the short‐term effects of these two radiofrequency ablation procedures.

Results

At the 30‐day follow‐up, the PIMSRA group demonstrated a greater reduction in left ventricular outflow tract peak gradient at rest compared to the ERSA group (22.25 [16.72] mmHg versus 47.75 [21.94] mmHg) (p < .01). The values for the PIMSRA group decreased from 99.33 (32.00) mmHg to 22.25 (16.72) mmHg (p < .01), while the ERSA group decreased from 97.75 (30.24) mmHg to 47.75 (21.94) mmHg (p < .01). Only the PIMSRA group exhibited a decrease in mitral regurgitation (MR). The area of MR decreased from 10.13 (4.12) mm2 to 3.65 (2.80) mm2 in the PIMSRA group (p < .01). Additionally, the PIMSRA group experienced reductions in left atrial diameter (LAD) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)%. The values for LAD changed from 43.58 (7.53) mm to 37.08 (6.92) mm (p = .03), and the values for LVEF% decreased from 65.75 (6.12) pg/mL to 60.83 (4.06) pg/mL (p = .03).

Conclusion

In terms of the two types of radiofrequency ablation methods used in HOCM, it has been observed that PIMSRA demonstrates a more favorable early treatment effect compared to ERSA.
Vigorous physical activity and atrial fibrillation in healthy individuals: What is the correct approach?
Authors: Margolis Gilad , Cohen Oshri , Roguin Ariel
Published: March 2024

Sport activity compared to sedentary life is associated with improved wellbeing and risk reduction in many different health conditions including atrial fibrillation (AF). Vigorous physical activity is associated with increased AF risk. We describe four individuals, who regularly perform endurance sport activity and developed AF. We discuss the changes occurring in the heart of endurance athletes and the possible etiology for AF, as well as currently available treatment options in this seemingly healthy population. Although the etiology of AF in the general population differs from the one in the usually younger endurance sport activity population, the treatment options are similar. There are several factors unique to those involved in vigorous physical activity that can influence their management. Despite a lack of evidence, endurance athletes with AF have traditionally been advised to “de‐training,” to reduce both the amount and intensity of exercise. Some of the current offered treatment options (beta‐blockers, class III antiarrhythmic) have a varied range of adverse effect, hindering them unattractive for these individuals. Depending on risk stratification tools, anticoagulation may be indicated. Some suggest an intermittent dosing therapy, while others recommend following current guidelines. AF ablation is recommended in exercising individuals with recurrent, symptomatic AF and/or in those who do not want drug therapy, given its impact on athletic performance, AF treatment decisions should be individualized for those engaging vigorous physical activity, while considering the potential risks, the urgency of returning to training, and the will and expectations of the patient.
Nomograms to predict long‐term survival for patients with gallbladder carcinoma after resection
Authors: Bai Shilei , Yang Pinghua , Qiu Jiliang , Wang Jie , Liu Liu , Wang Chunyan , Wang Huifeng , Wen Zhijian , Zhang Baohua
Published: March 2024

Background

Surgical resection remains the primary treatment option for gallbladder carcinoma (GBC). However, there is a pressing demand for prognostic tools that can refine patients' treatment choices and tailor personalized therapies accordingly.

Aims

The nomograms were constructed using the data of a training cohort (n = 378) of GBC patients at Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital (EHBH) between 2008 and 2018. The model's performance was validated in GBC patients (n = 108) at Guangzhou Centre from 2007 to 2018.

Methods and results

The 5‐year overall survival (OS) rate in the training cohort was 24.4%. Multivariate analyses were performed using preoperative and postoperative data to identify independent predictors of OS. These predictors were then incorporated into preoperative and postoperative nomograms, respectively. The C‐index of the preoperative nomogram was 0.661 (95% CI, 0.627 to 0.694) for OS prediction and correctly delineated four subgroups (5‐year OS rates: 48.1%, 19.0%, 15.6%, and 8.1%, p < 0.001). The C‐index of the postoperative nomogram was 0.778 (95%CI, 0.756 –0.800). Furthermore, this nomogram was superior to the 8th TNM system in both C‐index and the net benefit on decision curve analysis. The results were externally validated.

Conclusion

The two nomograms showed an optimally prognostic prediction in GBC patients after curative‐intent resection.
Effective management of recurrent Doege–Potter syndrome with somatostatin‐analogues: A case report
Authors: Schöler Felix , Storz Maximilian Andreas , Khavaran Ashkan , Hümmler Nicolas , Russe Maximilian Frederik , Wielenberg Christoph‐Ferdinand , Laubner Katharina , Seufert Jochen
Published: March 2024

Background

Doege–Potter syndrome is defined as paraneoplastic hypoinsulinemic hypoglycemia associated with a benign or malignant solitary fibrous tumor frequently located in pleural, but also extrapleural sites. Hypoglycemia can be attributed to paraneoplastic secretion of “Big‐IGF‐II,” a precursor of Insulin‐like growth factor‐II. This prohormone aberrantly binds to and activates insulin receptors, with consecutive initiation of common insulin actions such as inhibition of gluconeogenesis, activation of glycolysis and stimulation of cellular glucose uptake culminating in recurrent tumor‐induced hypoglycemic episodes. Complete tumor resection or debulking surgery is considered the most promising treatment for DPS.

Case

Here, we report a rare case of a recurrent Doege‐Poter Syndrome with atypical gelatinous tumor lesions of the lung, pleura and pericardial fat tissue in an 87‐year‐old woman. Although previously described as ineffective, we propose that adjuvant treatment with Octreotide in conjunction with intravenous glucose helped to maintain tolerable blood glucose levels before tumor resection. The somatostatin‐analogue Lanreotide was successfully used after tumor debulking surgery (R2‐resection) to maintain adequate blood glucose control.

Conclusion

We conclude that somatostatin‐analogues bear the potential of being effective in conjunction with limited surgical approaches for the treatment of hypoglycemia in recurrent or non‐totally resectable SFT entities underlying DPS.
Multi objective optimization scheduling of unmanned warehouse handling robots based on A star algorithm
Authors: Li Tong , Wang Ziming
Published: March 2024

The sorting efficiency of the warehouse management and handling robots (automated guided vehicles [AGVs]) in an unmanned warehouse affects the delivery and lead time of orders. Studying the collaborative sorting of multiple AGVs can significantly improve work efficiency. The goal of this paper is to minimize the overall shortest transportation path and time while ensuring the completion of all orders and corresponding recycling or return tasks. This paper conducts experiments on global path planning for multiple AGVs based on the A* algorithm, both without considering collision and deadlock situations, and considering collision and deadlock situations. The results show that without considering collision and deadlock situations, the method of matching fixed storage locations and picking stations can improve overall efficiency, while considering collision and deadlock problems will result in reduced efficiency. In the future, the model will be further optimized taking into account actual conditions to improve overall efficiency.
Constructing Efficient CuAg Nanoalloys on Ce0.90In0.10Oδ for Methanol Deep Oxidation Catalysis at Low Temperature
Authors: Chen Gang , Zhou Lulu , Xiao Yongli , Chen Yongdong
Published: March 2024

So far, it is still extremely challenging to develop an efficient catalyst for deep oxidation of methanol at low temperature. Herein, we report the construction of the highly dispersed CuAg alloy on the surface of Ce0.90In0.10Oδ nanorods support for catalyzing methanol deep oxidation. The composition, structure and properties of catalysts were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐vis) spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show that the CuxAg100‐x/Ce0.90In0.10Oδ alloy catalysts exhibit superior catalytic activity and stability compared to pure Ag/Ce0.90In0.10Oδ, with the highest activity observed for Cu40Ag60/Ce0.90In0.10Oδ, accompanied by the light‐off temperature (T50) and full conversion temperature (T90) of 115 and 145 °C, respectively. This is attributed to the synergistic effect of CuAg alloy, which results in electron transfer, generating more Ag0, and enhanced interaction between CuAg alloy and the support, leading to increased Ce3+ content and higher oxygen vacancy concentration. This work successfully applies CuAg alloy catalysts in thermo‐catalytic reaction, offering promising prospects for CuAg alloy catalysts in the methanol deep oxidation.
On‐Surface Fabrication toward Polar 2D Macromolecular Crystals
Authors: Kojima Takahiro , Xie Cong , Sakaguchi Hiroshi
Published: March 2024

Polar 2D macromolecular structures have attracted significant attention because of their ferroelectricity and ferro‐magnetism. However, it is challenging to synthesize them experimentally because dipoles or spins of these macromolecules tend to cancel each other. So far, there has been no successful strategy for assembling macromolecules in a unidirectional manner, achieving stereoregular polymerization on metal surfaces, and creating polar 2D polymer crystals. Recent progress in molecular assembly, on‐surface polymer synthesis, and direct control of molecules using electric field applications provides an opportunity to develop such strategies. In this regard, we first review past studies on chiral and achiral molecular assembly, on‐surface polymer synthesis, and orientation control of polar molecules. Then, we discuss our newly developed approach called “vectorial on‐surface synthesis”, which is based on “dynamic chirality” of compass precursors, stereoselective polymerization, and favorable interchain interactions originating from CH‐π interactions. Finally, we conclude with a prospective outlook.
An Update on Protection of 5′‐Hydroxyl Functions of Nucleosides and Oligonucleotides
Authors: Seliger Hartmut , Sanghvi Yogesh S.
Published: March 2024

The synthesis of natural and chemically modified nucleosides and oligonucleotides is in great demand due to its increasing number of applications in diverse areas of research. These include tools for diagnostics and proteomics, research reagents for molecular biology, probes for functional genomics, and the design, discovery, development, and manufacture of new therapeutics. The likelihood of success in synthesizing these molecules is often dependent on the correct choice of a protection strategy to block the 5′‐hydroxyl group of a carbohydrate moiety, nucleoside, or oligonucleotide. This topic was reviewed extensively in the year 2000. The purpose of this article is to complement and update the original review with recently published methodologies recommended for the protection and deprotection of the 5′‐hydroxyl group. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Efficient Host Materials for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries: Ultrafine CoP Nanoparticles in Black Phosphorus‐Carbon Composite
Authors: Chen Kai , Lin Zihao , Zhang Guodong , Zheng Jiangxin , Fan Zhongxiong , Xiao Liangping , Xu Qingchi , Xu Jun
Published: March 2024

The pursuit of efficient host materials to address the sluggish redox kinetics of sulfur species has been a longstanding challenge in advancing the practical application of lithium‐sulfur batteries. In this study, amorphous carbon layer loaded with ultrafine CoP nanoparticles prepared by a one‐step in situ carbonization/phosphating method to enhance the inhibition of 2D black phosphorus (BP) on LiPSs shuttle. The carbon coating layer facilitates accelerated electron/ion transport, enabling the active involvement of BP in the conversion of soluble lithium polysulfides (LiPSs). Concurrently, the ultra‐fine CoP nanoparticles enhance the chemical anchoring ability and introduce additional catalytic sites. As a result, S@BP@C‐CoP electrodes demonstrate exemplary cycling stability (with a minimal capacity decay of 0.054 % over 500 cycles at 1 C) and superior rate performance (607.1 mAh g−1 at 5 C). Moreover, at a sulfur loading of 5.5 mg cm−2, the electrode maintains an impressive reversible areal capacity of 5.45 mAh cm−2 after 50 cycles at 0.1 C. This research establishes a promising approach, leveraging black phosphorus‐based materials, for developing high‐efficiency Li‐S batteries.
Determination of higenamine in common natural spices by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Du Jinming , Li Xuefen , Tian Wenyi , Guo Chengjun
Published: March 2024

Higenamine (HG) is a β2 receptor agonist and was explicitly added to the Prohibited List of the World Anti‐Doping Agency in 2017. This compound is prohibited in both in‐ and out‐of‐competition athletes and falls under the category of nonthreshold substances. Because of HG presence in numerous plants, as evidenced by a growing body of research data, an exception was made for HG in the TD2017MRPL document, in which adverse analytical findings (AAFs) were not reported if the urinary HG concentration was less than 10 ng/mL. In this study, a comprehensive and systematic analysis of the HG content in five batches of samples from each of the 48 natural spices selected for this investigation was conducted using UPLC–MS/MS technology. Method validation was carried out in accordance with the ICH Analytical Procedures and Methods Validation for Drugs and Biologics Guidance, and the experimental results demonstrated that the method provided appropriate sensitivity, precision, stability, linearity, and accuracy. HG was detected for the first time in Houttuynia cordata, Zingiber officinale, Cinnamomum cassia, Stevia rebaudiana, Piper nigrum, Siraitia grosuenorii, Platycodon grandiflorus, and Myristica fragrans. Furthermore, the content of HG was found to vary significantly among the different plant parts of Nelumbo nucifera, such as rhizomes, leaves, seeds, and plumules. This paper provides systematic and comprehensive data to support the safe use of spices in athletes' diets, thereby reducing the risk of food‐sourced doping violations.
Epidemiology and risk factors for hyperkalaemia in heart failure
Authors: Grobbee Diederick E. , Filippatos Gerasimos , Desai Nihar R. , Coats Andrew J. S. , Pinto Fausto , Rosano Giuseppe M. C. , Cleland John G. F. , Kammerer Jennifer , de Arellano Antonio Ramirez
Published: March 2024

Patients with heart failure (HF), particularly those with impaired renal function receiving renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASis), are at risk of hyperkalaemia; when hyperkalaemia is severe, this can have serious clinical consequences. The incidence, prevalence, and risk factors for hyperkalaemia reported in randomized trials of RAASis may not reflect clinical practice due to exclusion of patients with elevated serum potassium (sK+) or severe renal impairment: information on patients managed in routine clinical care is important to understanding the actual burden of hyperkalaemia. This paper reviews the available clinical epidemiology data on hyperkalaemia in HF and considers areas requiring further research. Observational studies published since 2017 that focused on hyperkalaemia, included patients with HF, and had ≥1000 participants were considered. Hyperkalaemia occurrence in HF varied widely from 7% to 39% depending on the setting, HF severity, follow‐up length, and concomitant medications. Rates were lowest in patients with newly diagnosed HF and highest in patients with greater disease severity; comorbidities, such as chronic kidney disease and diabetes, and RAASi use, reflected commonly identified risk factors for hyperkalaemia in patients with HF. Hyperkalaemia was most often mild; however, from the limited data available, persistence of mild hyperkalaemia was associated with an increased risk of mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events. There were also limited data available on the progression of hyperkalaemia. Recurrence was common, occurring in one‐quarter to two‐fifths of hyperkalaemia cases. Despite HF guidelines recommending close monitoring of sK+, 55–93% of patients did not receive appropriate testing before or after initiation of RAASi or in follow‐up to moderate/severe hyperkalaemia detection. Many of the observational studies were retrospective and from a single country. There is a need for international, prospective, longitudinal, observational studies, such as the CARE‐HK in HF study (NCT04864795), to understand hyperkalaemia's prevalence, incidence, and severity; to identify and characterize cases that persist, progress, and recur; to highlight the importance of sK+ monitoring when using RAASi; and to assess the impact of newer HF therapies and potassium binders in clinical practice. Data from both clinical trials and observational studies with adjustments for confounding variables will be needed to assess the contribution of hyperkalaemia to clinical outcomes.
Development and validation of algorithms to predict left ventricular ejection fraction class from healthcare claims data
Authors: Logeart Damien , Doublet Maxime , Gouysse Margaux , Damy Thibaud , Isnard Richard , Roubille François
Published: March 2024

Aims

The use of large medical or healthcare claims databases is very useful for population‐based studies on the burden of heart failure (HF). Clinical characteristics and management of HF patients differ according to categories of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), but this information is often missing in such databases. We aimed to develop and validate algorithms to identify LVEF in healthcare databases where the information is lacking.

Methods and results

Algorithms were built by machine learning with a random forest approach. Algorithms were trained and reinforced using the French national claims database [Système National des Données de Santé (SNDS)] and a French HF registry. Variables were age, gender, and comorbidities, which could be identified by medico‐administrative code‐based proxies, Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical codes for drug delivery, International Classification of Diseases (Tenth Revision) coding for hospitalizations, and administrative codes for any other type of reimbursed care. The algorithms were validated by cross‐validation and against a subset of the SNDS that includes LVEF information. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.84 for the algorithm identifying LVEF ≤ 40% and 0.79 for the algorithms identifying LVEF < 50% and ≥50%. For LVEF ≤ 40%, the reinforced algorithm identified 50% of patients in the validation dataset with a positive predictive value of 0.88 and a specificity of 0.96. The most important predictive variables were delivery of HF medication, sex, age, hospitalization, and testing for natriuretic peptides with different orders of positive or negative importance according to the LVEF category.

Conclusions

The algorithms identify reduced or preserved LVEF in HF patients within a nationwide healthcare claims database with high positive predictive value and low rates of false positives.
Empagliflozin and risk of lower respiratory tract infection in heart failure with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction: An EMPEROR‐Preserved analysis
Authors: Ferreira João Pedro , Zannad Faiez , Packer Milton , Filippatos Gerasimos , Pocock Stuart J. , Vasques‐Nóvoa Francisco , Böhm Michael , Butler Javed , Anker Stefan
Published: March 2024

Aims

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) are common worldwide. Patients with heart failure and mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF) have a high risk of developing LRTI. Prior studies were able to show that sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors may reduce the incidence of LRTI in patients with type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to evaluate patient characteristics and prognosis according to LRTI status and to assess the effect of empagliflozin on LRTI in 5988 patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF enrolled in the EMPEROR‐Preserved trial randomized to either empagliflozin or placebo over a median follow‐up of 26 months.

Methods and results

Time‐updated models were used to study the mortality risk after a LRTI. Cox regression was used to study the effect of empagliflozin on incident LRTI. Throughout the follow‐up, 699 of 5988 (11.7%) patients developed LRTI: these were older, were more frequently hospitalized within the previous year, had type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and had higher N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels than patients without incident LRTI. Patients who developed LRTI had a 2.7‐fold higher risk of subsequent mortality compared to patients without LRTI. The incidence of LRTI was 5.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 4.6–5.8) events per 100 person‐years in the empagliflozin group and 6.2 (95% CI 5.6–6.9) events per 100 person‐years in the placebo group (hazard ratio 0.83, 95% CI 0.71–0.96, p = 0.014). The total number of LRTI events was reduced in the empagliflozin group (incidence rate ratio 0.80, 95% CI 0.68–0.94, p = 0.008). No effect of empagliflozin was observed on COVID‐19 incidence.

Conclusion

In EMPEROR‐Preserved, LRTI was frequent and associated with a poor prognosis. Empagliflozin was associated with a reduced risk of LRTI compared to placebo.
Stereoselective Total Synthesis of Pyranicin and 4‐Epi‐Pyranicin from Carbohydrate Precursors
Authors: Ambati Praveen , Gupta Akanksha , Bandi Anjaneyulu , Perali Ramu Sridhar
Published: March 2024

Herein, we describe a simple and efficient pathway for the total synthesis of pyranicin and 4‐epi‐pyranicin by utilizing carbohydrates as chiral raw materials for the first time. The general synthetic strategy involves the formation of two main fragments: Fragment 1 is the central tetrahydropyran core, which was constructed in a total of 10 steps from 2,3,4,6‐tetra‐O‐acetyl D‐glucal via Ferrier‐type rearrangement and oxidative cyclization as the key steps. Fragment 2 is the butenolide fragment, which was obtained in a gram scale with a total of 14 steps from diacetyl‐L‐rhamnal involving a ring contraction strategy.
Pesticide Contamination Levels in the Stomach Contents of Wild Raccoons (Procyon lotor) and Masked Palm Civets (Paguma larvata) in Japan
Authors: Shinya So , Sashika Mariko , Minamikawa Miku , Itoh Tetsuji , Tanikawa Tsutomu , Tanaka Kazuyuki D. , Nakayama Shouta M. M. , Ishizuka Mayumi , Ikenaka Yoshinori
Published: March 2024

Pesticides, which are vital for agriculture, pose a significant threat to wildlife in transformed Japanese landscapes. Despite global reports of pesticide poisoning in animals, limited studies have examined current wildlife exposure in croplands or metropolitan areas in the region. Using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS), our study aimed to assess the contamination status of 368 commonly used pesticides. The stomach contents of raccoons living in croplands contained 13 pesticides, including six herbicides and 11 fungicides. Neonicotinoid insecticides, some fungicides, and previously banned insecticides (benzene hexachloride and dichlofenthion) were most frequently detected and found at the highest concentrations, suggesting direct soil–plant transfer and direct consumption by crop-eating species. In masked palm civets living in metropolitan areas, four insecticides and six fungicides were detected, indicating urban wildlife exposure from raided dustbins, urban gardens, and lumber from houses. Although the maximum measured concentrations of all pesticides were lower than the acceptable daily intake for humans, it remains unclear whether these concentrations may have toxic or adverse health effects on the species evaluated in these transformed landscapes. Our study is the first to examine recent pesticide exposures in wild mammals in Japan. Application of the method we developed will lay the foundation for the examination of pesticides in other wildlife species to assist conservation management efforts in the region. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:943–951. © 2024 SETAC
Towards an Approach to Co‐Execute System Models at the Enterprise Level
Authors: Bankauskaite Jovita , Strolia Zilvinas , Morkevicius Aurelijus
Published: March 2024

Industry 4.0, the Internet of Things, and large‐scale system‐to‐system interactions are driving digital transformation in the industry. Model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) is one of the core paradigms behind this transformation. MBSE practices are widely applied to enterprise (including system of systems and mission) architectures, which become a crucial part of successful digital transformation. The core challenge today is not only how digital continuity can be maintained by connecting different layers of models (such as system models to system‐of‐systems models), but also how to perform detailed analysis and simulation at the enterprise level model. This paper studies Systems Modeling Language (SysML®) as the standard language to model systems, Unified Architecture Framework (UAF) as the framework, Unified Architecture Framework Modeling Language (UAFML) as the language to model enterprise architectures and proposes an approach for end‐to‐end co‐execution of the integrated enterprise model.
Role of mesenchymal stem cells‐derived exosomes on inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis and telocyte modulation in doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity: A closer look at the structural level
Authors: Imam Reda A. El Nasser , Aboulhoda Basma Emad , Amer Maha M. , Hassan Fatma E. , Alghamdi Mansour A. , Abdel‐Hamed Mohamed R.
Published: March 2024

Cardiotoxicity induced by doxorubicin (Dox) is a major complication in cancer patients. Exosomes (Ex) derived from mesenchymal cells could be a promising therapeutic for various heart diseases. This study investigated the role of Ex in Dox‐induced cardiotoxicity and its mechanistic insights, using Sacubitril/valsartan (S/V) as a reference drug widely recommended in heart failure management. The study involved 24 Wistar rats, divided into a control, Dox, Dox + S/V, and Dox + Ex groups. The rats were assessed for cardiac enzymes, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Immunohistochemical expression of caspase‐1, nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NrF2), E‐Cadherin, CD117/c‐kit, and Platelet‐derived growth factor‐α (PDGFα) was evaluated. P53 and Annexin V were assessed by PCR. Histological examination was performed using hematoxylin and eosin and Sirius red stains. Ex ameliorated the adverse cardiac pathological changes and significantly decreased the cardiac enzymes and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Ex also exerted antifibrotic and antiapoptotic effect in heart tissue. Ex treatment also improved NrF2 immunohistochemistry, up‐regulated E‐Cadherin immune expression, and restored the telocyte markers CD117/c‐kit and PDGFα. Ex can mitigate Dox‐induced cardiotoxicity by acting as an anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic agents, restoring telocytes and modulating epithelial mesenchymal transition.

Research Highlights

Exosomes exhibit positive expression for CD90 and CD105 whereas showing −ve expression for CD 34 by flow cytometry.

Exosomes restore the immunohistochemical expression of the telocytes markers CD117/c‐kit and PDGFα.

Exosomes alleviate myocardial apoptosis, oxidative stress and fibrosis.
Adolescent Reference Values for MR‐Derived Biventricular Strain Obtained Using Feature‐Tracking and Myocardial Tagging
Authors: Real Carlos , Párraga Rocío , González‐Calvo Ernesto , Gutiérrez‐Ortiz Eva , Díaz‐Muñoz Raquel , Sánchez‐González Javier , Beneito‐Durá María , Martínez‐Gómez Jesús , Pizarro Gonzalo , García‐Lunar Inés , Fernández‐Jiménez Rodrigo
Published: March 2024

Background

Myocardial strain is a promising marker for the detection of early left or right ventricular (LV or RV) dysfunction in pediatric populations. The reference standard for MR strain measurement is myocardial tagging (MT); however, MT has limited clinical utility because the additional acquisitions needed are time‐consuming. In contrast, MR‐feature tracking (FT) allows strain quantification from routinely acquired cine sequences. Studies providing reference values obtained with both FT and MT for adolescents are lacking.

Purpose

To use MR‐FT and MT to define sex‐specific LV and RV strain reference values for adolescents.

Study Type

Cross‐sectional, prospective.

Population

One hundred twenty‐three adolescents aged 15–18 years (52% girls) without known cardiovascular disease.

Field Strength/Sequence

Balanced steady‐state free‐precession sequence for FT analysis and a spatial modulation of magnetization hybrid TFE‐EPI sequence for MT acquisitions at 3.0‐T.

Assessment

Segment Medviso software was used to obtain longitudinal (LS) and circumferential (CS) strain for both ventricles, and radial strain (RS) for LV.

Statistical Tests

The Student t‐test was used for between‐sex comparisons of continuous variables. Sex‐specific percentiles were calculated using the weighted average method. Intraobserver and interobserver agreement was assessed in 30 randomly selected studies using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

FT‐derived LVLS and LVCS were significantly higher in girls than in boys (−19.8% vs. −17.8% and −22.2% vs. −21.0%, respectively), as they were with MT (LVLS: −18.1% vs. −16.8%; LVCS: −20.8% vs. −19.7%). FT‐LVRS was higher in girls than in boys (44.8% vs. 35.1%), while MT‐LVRS was the opposite (18.6% vs. 22.7%). FT‐RVLS was higher in girls (−23.4% vs. −21.3%), but there were no between‐sex differences in MT‐derived RVLS or RVCS. ICC values for intraobserver agreement were ≥0.89, whereas for interobserver agreement were <0.80 for MT‐LVRS and ≥0.80 for all remaining parameters.

Data Conclusion

This study provides sex‐specific reference biventricular strain values obtained with MR‐MT and MR‐FT for adolescents aged 15–18 years. MR‐FT may be a valid method for obtaining strain values in pediatric populations.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Creativity in the Ancient Greek Philosophy: The Politics of Demiourgein
Authors: Zafeirenia Brokalaki
Published: March 2024

Where does creativity come from and what is its purpose? The paper revisits these ever‐turning questions to correct the prevalent but, arguably, inaccurate historical interpretation of creativity as a concept that emerged in modernity. First, I substantiate that a close study of the ancient Greek texts suggests that although creativity seems to occupy a peripheral position in the ancient philosophical thinking, it is a central, yet, hidden, subject of speculation. Second, I overturn the worn‐out view that the ancient Greek philosophy conceives creativity as a God‐given talent breathed into a fortunate few. Last, I demonstrate that a more encompassing understanding of creativity is implied by several Greek philosophers. To achieve this, (a) I discuss the contemporary interpretations of the ancient notion; (b) I examine the historical origin and etymology of the Greek term demiourgein (“to create”) to discuss its relevant uses; and (c) I develop a nuanced framework for conceptualizing ancient creativity and its interrelation to human agency, politics, and social life.
Wearable sensors to measure the influence of sonic seasoning on wine consumers in a live context: a preliminary proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Billeci Lucia , Sanmartin Chiara , Tonacci Alessandro , Taglieri Isabella , Ferroni Giuseppe , Marangoni Roberto , Venturi Francesca
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Any action capable of creating expectations about product quality would be able to modulate experienced pleasantness. In this context, during the 2022 edition of the Internet Festival (Pisa, Italy) a ‘social experiment’ was promoted to set up an affordable and reliable methodology based on wearable sensors to measure the emotions aroused in a live context on consumers by different kinds of wines. Therefore, five wines (two faulty ones and three high‐quality samples) were proposed to 50 non‐selected consumers in an arousing context with live jazz music as background. Both explicit (questionnaires) and two different approaches for implicit methods (electrocardiogram (ECG) recorded by wearable sensors vs. smartphones), the latter performed on a subgroup of 16, to measure the emotions aroused by wines and music were utilized synergistically.

RESULTS

According to our findings: (i) wine undoubtedly generates a significant emotional response on consumers; (ii) this answer is multifaceted and attributable to the quality level of the wine tasted. In fact, all things being equal, while drinking wine even untrained consumers can perfectly recognize good wines compared to products of lower quality; (iii) high‐quality wines are able to induce a spectrum of positive emotions, as observed by the analysis of ECG signals, especially when they are coupled with background music.

CONCLUSION

The framework has certainly played to the advantage of good‐quality wines, fostering their positive emotional characteristics on the palate even of some less experienced consumers, thanks to a dragging effect towards a positive mood generated by the surrounding conditions (good music in a beautiful location). © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.