bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pure mucinous adenocarcinoma of the breast with the rare lymphoplasmacytic infiltration: A case report with review of literature
Authors: Prajapati Yash Hasmukhbhai , Bhabhor Vishal , Mehta Kahan Samirkumar , Barot Mithoon , Boriwala Husen , Omar Mohamed
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

A unique ER/PR‐positive mucinous adenocarcinoma of breast but CK7/CK20 negativity. A rare finding of Lymphoplasmacytic Infiltration is noted. Successful treatment included modified radical mastectomy and tamoxifen‐based therapy, leads to remission.

Mucinous carcinoma, which is characterized by the presence of abundant extracellular mucin, is a rare and distinctive subtype of invasive breast cancer. This subtype accounts for less than 5% of all invasive breast cancers, with pure mucinous carcinoma representing only around 2%. It is most commonly found in older patients, typically in the sixth to early eighth decade of life. We present the case of a 55‐year‐old female with a 15‐year history of a painless, gradually enlarging palpable lump on her left breast. Upon examination, a 5 × 5 cm lump with well‐defined margins and a hard consistency was found in the lower outer quadrant of the left breast. Histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Left Breast. The patient underwent modified radical mastectomy and received adjuvant endocrine therapy with tamoxifen due to hormone receptor‐positive status. Mucinous carcinoma of the breast is a unique entity with specific histological features including the presence of extracellular mucin pools. Immunohistochemical staining is crucial for determining hormone receptor status, which can guide treatment decisions. Although surgical intervention is the primary approach, the extent of surgery may vary, ranging from lumpectomy to mastectomy. Adjuvant therapies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also be considered based on individual cases. This case underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing rare subtypes of breast cancer, such as mucinous carcinoma. Accurate diagnosis, appropriate surgical intervention, adjuvant therapy, and long‐term follow‐up are critical components of treatment.
Subacute thyroiditis after SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination: A case report
Authors: Akha Ozra , Mazandarani Mahdi , Azari Soroush , Daneshfar Niloofar , Rasouli Kimia , Heydari Keyvan , Tavakolian Golvash , Hoseini Aref
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Subacute thyroiditis which is typically characterized by cervical pain and fever is caused by viral infection and is seen after SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination. Here we report a post‐vaccination subacute thyroiditis after SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination.

Subacute thyroiditis (SAT) is possibly caused by a viral infection and is typically characterized by cervical pain and fever. SAT associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection or SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination has been reported, albeit in limited numbers. A 34‐year‐old woman was referred to our clinic with typical SAT symptoms. The diagnosis was confirmed through thyroid scintigraphy after receiving the SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination, despite testing negative for COVID‐19 via RT‐PCR. There is a theoretical correlation between SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination and SAT. Vaccination may have a direct or indirect impact on the thyroid, but further studies are required to confirm this relationship. A systematic review of the literature of similar cases was performed for comparison. Ultimately, the overall benefits of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination outweigh the potential adverse effects. Therefore, these types of reports should not divert attention from the actual reality.
Adams–Oliver syndrome: About a case
Authors: Itongwa John Mambo , Colombe Moise Mbaluku , Bukuru Helene , Deogratias Niyongeko , Matabaro Cédric Irenge , Opondjo Fernand Manga , Bianga Viviane Feza , Alice Ndayishimye
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

We report the case of a newborn with aplasia cutis congenita characterized by the absence of skin in the left parietal region, superficial dilatation of the scalp veins, facial dysmorphia, limb anomalies, and severe intrauterine growth retardation. Maternal milk enabled the baby to gain weight, and dermatological treatment was performed for scarring of the vertex. Psychomotor development and stature were spectacular. This case illustrates the clinical variability of this condition and the need for multidisciplinary management.
Pseudotumor cerebri with status epilepticus in a child: A rare presentation of vitamin D deficiency
Authors: Pahari Soumya , Kunwar Prakash , Acharya Subi , Rauniyar Pallavi , Sagar Bahadur C. K.
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) encompasses a constellation of symptoms caused by elevated intracranial pressure of unclear etiology. Various associations have been described, rarely hypovitaminosis D. Vitamin D deficiency should be considered as a potential etiology of neurological manifestations like PTC and seizures in children. Early diagnosis and correction of vitamin D deficiency is key to preventing morbidity and achieving good outcomes.
Dermoscopic image of the hairs in a very early lesion of tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Kondo Makoto , Nakanishi Takehisa , Habe Koji , Yamanaka Keiichi
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

While the initial lesions of tinea capitis are often overlooked due to their small size and numerous hairs emerging from the follicle, it is crucial not to dismiss the partial presence of comma or harpin hairs and black spots.
Myalgia‐induced discovery of rhabdomyolysis complicating generalized varicella in an immunocompetent patient: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Bayala Yannick Laurent Tchenadoyo , Ayouba Tinni Ismael , Ouedraogo Patricia , Ouedraogo Aboubakar , Traore Awa , Bonkoungou Marcellin , Zabsonre/Tiendrebeogo Joëlle Wendlassida Stéphanie , Ouedraogo Dieu‐Donné
Published: March 2024

Key clinical message

In a rare occurrence, primary varicella infection led to rhabdomyolysis in a 24‐year‐old with no medical history. Presenting with rash, fever, and weakness, he developed diffuse myalgia at 72 h. Elevated muscle enzymes confirmed rhabdomyolysis secondary to varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection. Treatment with acyclovir and hydration resulted in significant improvement within a month.

Primary varicella infection is rarely complicated by rhabdomyolysis. In this study, we describe a case of rhabdomyolysis complicating a VZV infection in a black subject. The patient was a 24‐year‐old black African with no particular medical history and was immunocompetent. He presented with an acute onset of generalized rash, fever, and generalized weakness. Physical examination revealed vesicular lesions typical of chickenpox. Antipyretic treatment combined with acyclovir was instituted in hospital. At the 72nd hour, diffuse myalgia developed. Muscle enzyme tests revealed CPK elevated to 40 times the upper limit of normal, LDH elevated to 2 times the upper limit of normal, ASAT and ALAT elevated to 7 times the upper limit of normal, and 2.5 times the upper limit of normal, respectively. We accepted the diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis secondary to VZV infection. The patient was given saline hydration and showed clinical and biological improvement 1 month later. A patient presenting with muscular symptoms during a VZV infection should be considered for rhabdomyolysis.
Physiotherapy intervention in Smith–Magenis syndrome: A case report based on exercise therapy for postural control and balance
Authors: López‐Torres Adriana , Naia‐Entonado Zeltia
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case report aims to raise a physiotherapy intervention for subjects with SMS. The basis is an active work, based on postural control and balance training. Physiotherapists can play an important role in the management of these subjects.

Smith–Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a genetic alteration that encompasses a series of psychophysical repercussions that interferes with postural control and the autonomous functionality of the subjects who suffer from it. In this study, a clinical case of an 18‐year‐old adolescent with a genetic diagnosis of an SMS mutation is presented. This work proposes a physiotherapy intervention, adapted to the individual conditions and agreed upon with his family. The goal would be to analyze the effectiveness of postural control and balance training in a subject with SMS. A physiotherapy intervention based on postural control and balance was proposed. This approach is combined with the strengthening and readaptation of the antigravity muscles, through strength training, mobilization exercises, gait and transfers reeducation. An initial assessment was carried out. The interventions were developed at the home of the clinical case. The main variables were balance and postural control. For this, the following measurement scales and tests were used: Face Scale, Gross Motor Function Scale, Berg Balance Scale, Romberg Test, Barthel Index, and Functional Assessment of Sitting (SATco scale). After the intervention, the case presented under observation greater postural control in the transfers, less imbalances, and introduced new positions during their development, which allow more functional and autonomous movement. This was also extrapolated to gait, which was optimized in its development. This observation was not reflexed in test scores, which remained the same than the initial assessment. The intervention had a positive effect on the development of trunk control, transfers, and gait.
Experimental Study on Desulfurization Characteristics of Dry Sorbent Injection at Low SO2 Concentrations
Authors: Liu Jingwen , Song Yilin , Kang Di , Guo Shiyi , Zhou Hao
Published: March 2024

To effectively reduce SO2 emissions, flue gas desulfurization methods are widely used in coal‐fired power plants. In desulfurization, the dry sorbent injection (DSI) technology has the advantages of high desulfurization efficiency, simple operation, convenient adjustment, and low initial investment. Here, a pilot‐scale experimental system was designed and built to investigate the desulfurization characteristics of the DSI technology. The influence of the residence time of the desulfurizer, the reaction temperature, the stoichiometric ratio of the desulfurization reaction, the particle size of the desulfurizer, the inlet SO2 concentration, the dust concentration, and the water vapor content in the flue gas on the desulfurization efficiency at low SO2 concentrations was studied by injecting NaHCO3 into the pipeline. The desulfurization efficiency can be significantly improved by reducing the desulfurizer particle size or increasing the water vapor content in the flue gas at low SO2 concentration. An empirical formula describing the dependence of the desulfurization efficiency on experimental parameters is given.
Lithium Metal Anode in Electrochemical Perspective
Authors: Wang Leping , Wu Feng , Yao Ying , Zhang Cunzhong
Published: March 2024

Lithium metal is a possible anode material for building high energy density secondary batteries, but its problems during cycling have hindered the commercialization of lithium metal secondary batteries. Until now, many sophisticated techniques have been used to obtain rich micro‐morphological and physicochemical information of the deposition layer and the solid electrolyte interface (SEI), and to develop improvement strategies based on the information and achieve remarkable results. Regulating the reaction process around key links is a classic strategy to achieve expected results. Based on this empirical fact, we artificially highlighted the differences in the apparent performance of lithium metal anode using different series of electrolytes. We used microelectrode technology to analyze the reaction mechanisms and kinetic characteristics of each elementary step under all electrolyte conditions, revealing common laws that affect apparent performance and the basic steps that have a decisive impact on apparent performance. We discussed and elucidated the relevant physical and chemical principles, providing a clear basis for improving the pertinence and efficiency of improvement strategies.
The influence of the physical and chemical properties of hardened cement paste on the heat‐induced explosive spalling of concrete
Authors: Reiners Jochen , Zehfuß Jochen , Dehn Frank , Müller Christoph
Published: March 2024

This paper summarizes the results of two research projects that were carried out between 2016 and 2022 at the VDZ (Verein Deutscher Zementwerke) in Düsseldorf. The objective of the projects was to examine the influence of the cement type as well as the physical and chemical properties of the hardened cement paste on the explosive spalling of concrete in the case of fire. A particular focus was set on studying the way in which the concrete's moisture content contributes to the spalling phenomenon. The findings obtained for the different concretes examined in the dedicated experimental program were evaluated to better explain the mechanisms causing the heat‐induced explosive spalling of concrete.
COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN SHELL AND SOLID FINITE ELEMENT MODELS FOR STEEL JOINTS CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: Aguiar J. , Freire F. , Santos A. F. , Ljubinković F. , Conde J. , da Silva L. S.
Published: March 2024

Solid and shell finite element models (FEM) are two commonly used possibilities to analyse the structural behaviour of steel joints. The choice between solid and shell models often comes down to a balance between computational resources and the level of detail required for the study. In this paper, a set of welded beam‐column joints with hot‐rolled open sections is studied using both modelling techniques. The joints' behaviour is assessed in terms of resistance and initial stiffness. An improved shell FEM is proposed. The results indicate that for the studied dataset, both techniques return comparable results. Hence, the use of shell FEM seems to be a possible alternative to solid FEM and can be efficiently used for the joint characterization.
RECTANGULAR HOLLOW T‐SHAPED JOINT WITH ECCENTRICITY MADE OF HIGH STRENGTH STEELS
Authors: Kalmykova Svitlana , Wald František
Published: March 2024

The presented research aims to investigate how the choice of steel grade affects the resistance of T‐shaped RHS‐to‐RHS structural connections, specifically those involving an offset of a brace toward the wall of a chord. To assess the mechanical resistance of these connections, the numerical non‐linear FE modelling with ABAQUS software were utilized, which is then validated against results obtained from the analytical model developed by Kalmykova & Wald [1]. Material modelling is carried out for steel grades S355, S460, and S690, using standardized parametric curves as outlined in EN 1993‐1‐8. It is evident that variations in material properties and the fy/fu ratio influence the behavior of these connections, particularly at the 3% deformation level.
STEEL AND COMPOSITE STRUCTURES IN REHABILITATION AND INTERVENTION IN EXISTING BUILDINGS
Authors: González‐Sanz Guillermo , Castrillo Alvaro , Saorín Jesus , Valbuena Sandra , Bernabeu Alejandro
Published: March 2024

This paper presents different criteria, requirements, and possibilities of steel and composite structures in rehabilitation and intervention of existing buildings. Firstly, the characteristics of the materials and techniques of the original building are studied, which are necessary for undertaking the structural analysis. Secondly, the specific conditions of each building are considered in accordance with the criteria and current standards. Thirdly, the possibilities of metal and composite structures in the rehabilitation and intervention of existing buildings are described, with recent projects developed by the authors highlighting their potential and versatility throughout the entire process.
LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT OF LOW CARBON SANDWICH PANELS WITH WOOD FIBRE CORE
Authors: Tesch Luana , Gervásio Helena , Craveiro Hélder D.
Published: March 2024

Wood is a popular material in civil engineering due to its renewability and ability to store carbon during the growing in forests. However, the LCA of wood‐based materials is currently based on the balance of carbon without considering the dynamic changes of forests over time and the effects of climate change, like wildfires, on this balance. Hence, this paper is the first step towards the development of a dynamic LCA of forests considering climate change effects on the carbon balance of forests. The paper focusses on the life cycle analysis of sandwich panels with a core made of wood fibers, based on current databases, and aims to illustrate the importance of biogenic carbon in the whole life cycle of such panels, particularly when compared with other traditional panels.
NUMERICAL MODELING OF TIMBER‐STEEL HYBRID STRUCTURES: CHALLENGES AND INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES
Authors: Corti Laura , Muciaccia Giovanni
Published: March 2024

The increasing diffusion of timber as a structural material asks for major detailing concerning numerical modelling; timber is commonly used with other construction materials in order to create hybrid structures exploiting each material's strengths and smoothing less efficient features. In this way – combining timber and steel – structural performances are guaranteed while lightness and sustainability of only‐timber structures are maintained. Some specific issues linked to timber material – e.g., orthotropic behaviour – and contact with steel are specifically addressed, exploring different techniques according to the scale of the problem. Finally, a complete steel‐timber hybrid beam‐to‐column joint is assembled, with a clear understanding of each interaction and insights for future adjustments to the benchmark model.
SCOPE 3 CARBON EMISSIONS IN SEAPORTS
Authors: Freitas Danielle , Gervásio Helena
Published: March 2024

Growing concern about carbon emissions and their environmental impact has led the port sector to assess and reduce their carbon footprint. Scope 3 mobile source emissions, especially related to maritime transportation, play a significant role in this scenario. This study analyses methodologies and tools for calculating Scope 3 emissions, highlighting the main features and shortcomings through case studies. Among the main identified gaps are the lack of standardization and the limited availability of port data. Digitization and its integration with a universal approach present an opportunity for more accurate calculations and a more effective development of emission reduction strategies.
DESIGN RESPONSE SPECTRA TO HUMAN COMFORT ASSESSMENT OF PEDESTRIAN FOOTBRIGES
Authors: de Souza Jorge Maurício , Oliveira Amanda Borges , Moreira Lucas Suzano , da Silva José Guilherme Santos
Published: March 2024

This research work aims to contribute to structural designers based on the development of a probabilistic approach for evaluating the dynamic structural response of pedestrian footbridges, with regard to excessive vibrations that may cause human discomfort. Based on the use of probabilistic methods, it becomes possible to determine the probability of the structure's peak acceleration values exceeding or not the human comfort criteria. The results obtained in this investigation reveal that the values of maximum accelerations, calculated based on the deterministic methods may be overestimated in design situations.
BUILT‐UP COLD‐FORMED STEEL‐LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE (CFS‐LWC) COMPOSITE BEAMS SUBJECTED TO ELEVATED TEMPERATURES
Authors: Rahnavard R. , Craveiro H.D. , Simões R.A. , Santiago A. , Laím L. , Gardner L.
Published: March 2024

Cold‐formed steel (CFS) products are extremely versatile and can be used in multiple applications. Recent experiments tests by the authors have shown that mobilising composite action within systems comprising cold‐formed steel beams and lightweight concrete is feasible and can lead to substantial improvements in structural performance. However, their behaviour subjected to elevated temperatures has yet to be investigated; this is, therefore, the focus of the present study. The results of two tests on CFS‐LWC beams at ambient and elevated temperatures are reported. A numerical modelling study using fire dynamics simulator (FDS) software is then described in which the temperature development was successfully replicated.
EFFECTIVE MODULUS METHOD (EMM) CONCEPT APPLIED TO THIN‐WALLED STEEL BEAMS AFFECTED BY LOCAL‐DISTORTIONAL INTERACTION
Authors: Prola Luís , Gala Pedro , Ruben Rui B. , Monteiro Cristiano , Simões Ana
Published: March 2024

The Effective Modulus Method (EMM), which simulates the effects of local and distortional post‐buckling to establish simplified design methodologies concept, is applied to the determination of the beam strength. This methodology was presented before [1], where the authors tested the results in columns, in comparison with experimental tests. In this approach, local and distortional post‐buckling effects are simulated by changing the mechanical characteristics (namely the elasticity modulus) of the cross‐section of the members. Specifically, the paper presents (i) the proposal of a new design methodology for beams affected by local and distortional buckling modes interaction and (ii) the comparison with experimental tests available in the literature.
HYBRID STEEL FRAMES WITH MASS TIMBER FLOORS: PERFORMANCE, CHALLENGES AND SUSTAINABILITY BENEFITS
Authors: Pimentel Ricardo , Simões Rui , da Silva Luís Simões
Published: March 2024

There is a growing interest in the construction industry to use timber to make structures more sustainable. This article discusses using mass timber flooring panels as part of steel‐framed buildings, covering performance, behaviour and best practice, market challenges and sustainability benefits. Embodied carbon comparisons were completed to demonstrate the environmental benefits of hybrid steel frames with mass timber floors and how they perform against voluntary industry targets set to tackle the climate crisis.
Resistance of thin sheets lap joints connected by spot welding and brazing
Authors: Ungureanu Viorel , Both Ioan , Cristian Antonio Andrei
Published: March 2024

The results of an experimental program on lap joints of thin gauge sheets connected by spot welding and MIG brazing are compared to the design code provisions. The results show the dependency of the spot weld lap joints resistance on the thickness of the connected sheets, while the MIG brazed lap joints resistance depends on the minimum thickness of the steel sheets connected. A statistical interpretation of the results shows the accuracy of the joint resistance. The coefficient of variation of the spot weld specimen is smaller than the one for the MIG brazed specimen, while the resistance of the spot weld is higher than the MIG brazed specimen when compared to the nominal resistances.
STRUCTURAL SILICONE SIKASIL® SG‐500: EXPERIMENTAL RHEOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF MATERIAL
Authors: Inca‐Cabrera Eliana , Jordão Sandra , Leitão Carlos , Mesquita Afonso , Hosseini Seyed‐Amin
Published: March 2024

The mechanical behaviour of adhesively bonded point‐fixings, in the scope of glazing systems, are usually investigated by non‐linear finite element analysis (FEA). The accuracy of the finite element model depends on the availability of suitable experimental data, used to calibrate the material models that describe the appropriate behaviour of the adhesive material. This paper presents and discusses the outputs of an experimental campaign focused on characterizing the mechanical properties on bulk material of the structural adhesive Sikasil® SG‐500, a bi‐component structural silicone. The results of the experimental campaign are used to calibrate material models for finite element analysis. The best‐performing hyperplastic material models for the state of stresses analysed in this paper, are selected and presented, intended to be used by designers and engineers.
The application of cellulosic‐based materials on interfacial solar steam generation for highly efficient wastewater purification: A review
Authors: Saeed Haroon A. M. , Xu Weilin , Yang Hongjun
Published: March 2024

The world's population is growing, leading to an increasing demand for freshwater resources for drinking, sanitation, agriculture, and industry. Interfacial solar steam generation (ISSG) can solve many problems, such as mitigating the power crisis, minimizing water pollution, and improving the purification and desalination of seawater, rivers/lakes, and wastewater. Cellulosic materials are a viable and ecologically sound technique for capturing solar energy that is adaptable to a range of applications. This review paper aims to provide an overview of current advancements in the field of cellulose‐based materials ISSG devices, specifically focusing on their applications in water purification and desalination. This paper examines the cellulose‐based materials ISSG system and evaluates the effectiveness of various cellulosic materials, such as cellulose nanofibers derived from different sources, carbonized wood materials, and two‐dimensional (2D) and 3D cellulosic‐based materials from various sources, as well as advanced cellulosic materials, including bacterial cellulose and cellulose membranes obtained from agricultural and industrial cellulose wastes. The focus is on exploring the potential applications of these materials in ISSG devices for water desalination, purification, and treatment. The function, advantages, and disadvantages of cellulosic materials in the performance of ISSG devices were also deliberated throughout our discussion. In addition, the potential and suggested methods for enhancing the utilization of cellulose‐based materials in the field of ISSG systems for water desalination, purification, and treatment were also emphasized.
Replacement of Toxic Hydrazines in Satellite Propulsion with Greener Dinitramide‐Based Energetic Ionic Liquid Candidates
Authors: Le Duc‐Minh , Renault Anne , Delage Arthur , Ducos Paul , Miro‐Sabate Carlos , Pelletier Nicolas , Lacôte Emmanuel , Jacob Guy
Published: March 2024

Satellite propulsion uses liquid mono or bi‐propellants composed of a hydrazine in combination with a strong oxidant. However, hydrazines are highly toxic. As a result, many research efforts for more environmentally compatible propellants have been made over the past decade. In this study we evidence green formulations that retain high propulsive performances. They are based on the dinitramide anion. From an initial library of 37 ammonium dinitramides 3 best candidates were selected after evaluation of their potential syntheses, calculated theoretical performances, experimental synthesis optimizations and decomposition temperatures. These three salts were then formulated to obtain acceptable sensitivities and melting points, which eventually led to only one formulation being retained: a 40 : 60 mixture of dimethylammonium dinitramide and ammonium dinitramide phlegmatized by 10 % of glycerol.
EEG band power and phase‐amplitude coupling in patients with Dravet syndrome
Authors: Hall Joanne C. , Bashir Shahid , Tsuboyama Melissa , Al‐Bradie Raidah , Mir Ali , Ali Mona , Poduri Annapurna , Rotenberg Alexander
Published: March 2024

Objective

Dravet syndrome (DS) is an epileptic encephalopathy caused by haploinsufficiency of the SCN1A gene. SCN1A gene deficiency limits the firing rates of fast‐spiking inhibitory interneurons, which should reflect in abnormal aggregate network oscillatory electroencephalography (EEG) activity that can be measured by spectral power and phase‐amplitude coupling (PAC) analysis. In this retrospective pilot study, we tested whether spectral EEG frequency band power and PAC metrics distinguish children with DS from age‐matched controls, an early step toward establishing EEG markers of target engagement by gene or drug therapy.

Methods

EEG data were collected from patients with DS (N = 6) and age‐matched control pediatric participants (N = 11) and analyzed for cumulative spectral power and PAC and classification capacity of these metrics, by logistic regression analysis. For this initial spectral and PAC analysis, we focused on sleep EEG, where myogenic artifact is minimal and where δ–γ and θ–γ coupling is otherwise expected to be robust.

Results

Cumulative δ (1– <4 Hz) and θ (4–7 Hz) power was significantly reduced in the DS group, compared with age‐matched controls (p = 0.001 and p = 0.02, respectively). The δ power was a stronger classifier of separating DS from controls than θ power, with 87% and 83% accuracy, respectively. The γ power trended toward significant reduction (p = 0.08) in the DS group. We found significantly lower PAC between 1–2 Hz phase and 63–80 Hz amplitude in patients with DS compared with the age‐matched controls (p = 0.003), with 78% classification accuracy between groups for PAC.

Interpretation

In this pilot study assessing EEG patterns during sleep, we found lower δ–θ power and PAC in patients with DS versus controls, which may reflect abnormal aggregate macroscale network communication patterns resulting from SCN1A deficiency. These measures may be useful metrics of therapeutic target engagement, particularly if the therapy restores the underlying DS pathophysiology. The sorting capacity of these metrics distinguished patients with DS from patients without DS and may in turn facilitate near‐future development of disease and therapy target engagement biomarkers in this syndrome.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and global finance: Recent evidence
Authors: Sabbaghi Omid
Published: March 2024

This article provides a review of different global financial institutions and how they are making progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) through examination of their mission statements, stated purposes, financial products & services, and sustainable development projects. Through archival research, this study conducts an empirical investigation of how financial institutions are making progress on global environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. For each type of international financial institution, this study presents a prominent sample entity, evidence of value creation for the common good, and relationship to specific UN SDGs. This study provides evidence of different global institutions financing sustainability projects that create value for the common good with long‐term impact horizons. The evidence suggests that the combination of social factors and environmental factors outweigh the financial factors in the realized projects. This study proposes a novel approach towards comparing financial institutions in creating value for the common good based on the sustainable finance framework of Schoenmaker (2017, Investing for the common good: A sustainable finance framework. Bruegel).
On the optimal synthesis of sparsely thinned planar array antenna with constraints using meta‐heuristic optimization
Authors: Dutta Kailash P. , Mahanti Gautam K.
Published: March 2024

The investigations related to the planar antenna array have attracted much attention due to their vast applications in the areas of advanced wireless communication and electromagnetics. This article presents an effective synthesis method of a sparsely thinned symmetric planar antenna array using three well‐known meta‐heuristics including symbiotic organism search (SOS) algorithm, moth fly optimization (MFO), and multi‐verse optimization (MVO) algorithms. The main aim of this work is to optimize the positions of the switched‐on antenna elements on the array aperture in order to reduce the value of side‐lobe levels in the radiation field pattern in multiple planes for a desired first null beam width and subsequently to obtain the maximum reduced number of array‐elements in the antenna array. Two different cases are performed to optimize the radiation pattern in different azimuth angles with two different examples. The proposed methods can constrain the total number of array elements, inter‐element distance, and aperture area of the array. The radiation pattern characteristic and computation time linked with each example and each algorithm are recorded and compared with each other as well as with a fully populated planar symmetric rectangular array antenna of same aperture size for arriving at the conclusion. The simulation‐based results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design and the efficiency of the performance using the SOS algorithm.
Palladium Catalyzed Carbonyl Amination of Fluorinated Olefins for Synthesis of α‐CF3‐Acrylamides
Authors: Li Yang , Jing Yu , Shi Yi‐Ran , Li Hong , Yang Min‐Ge , Kou Yong‐Li , Fan Qiang‐Wei
Published: March 2024

Acrylamides are a class of important organic compounds that play key roles in biomedical chemistry, materials science, life science, and other fields. Due to the strong electron‐withdrawing effect of trifluoromethyl, the synthesis of trifluoromethylated acrylamides, especially those containing double bonds, has long been a challenge. Here, we report an example of the formation of trifluoromethyl acrylamides through palladium catalyzedcarbonylation of fluorinated olefins. By optimizing the reaction conditions, we can obtain different amide compounds, including alkyl acrylamides. aromatic acrylamides and heterocyclic acrylamides. This method has good substrate adaptability and functional group tolerance,so it is expected to be used in the synthesis of key amides in the fields of medicine and other fields.
SO2F2‐Mediated Thioesterification of Carboxylic Acids with Thiols
Authors: Zhang Guofu , Qi Huijie , Guan Chenfei , Jin Hui , Zhou Ying , Ding Chengrong
Published: March 2024

The generation of thioesters through thioesterification of carboxylic acid has significant synthetic value given the easy availability of various carboxylic acids and the extensive application of thioesters. An economical and rapid thioester synthesis approach is still needed. Herein, we achieved thioesterification of carboxylic acids with valuable glycosyl thiol, aromatic and aliphatic thiols mediated by sulfonyl fluoride (SO2F2). The compatibility of numerous carboxylic acid substrates was tested, including (hetero)aromatic and aliphatic carboxylic acids and the reaction proceeded smoothly under mild conditions at good yields. Late‐stage modification of drug molecules rac‐Naproxen and Loxoprofen proved feasible. Besides, the gram‐scale reaction demonstrated the utility of this protocol.
Effect of the tip speed ratio on the wake characteristics of wind turbines using LBM‐LES
Authors: Cui Xinghang , Mao Hantao , Wang Zhengdao , Yang Hui , Qian Yuehong , Wei Yikun , Zhang Yan
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the wake characteristics of Zell 2000 wind turbine under different tip velocity ratios are studied by using the lattice Boltzmann method and large eddy simulation. The adaptive mesh refinement method is performed to capture the fine flow structure and wake characteristics development. In this paper, we mainly focus on the effect of the tip speed ratio on the flow structure and unsteady characteristics of wind turbine wake. The three‐dimensional flow vorticity structures, the section vorticity diagram, the pressure fluctuation of wake and the lift coefficient of wind turbine wake are utilized to explore the effect of the tip speed ratio on the unsteady physics mechanism of wind turbine wake. With the increase of the tip speed ratio, the distance between two adjacent vortex rings along the axial direction gradually decreases, as the position of the broken vortex circles gradually approaches the center of the blade, separated vortexes are rapidly generated, and the coherent structure appears closer to the wind turbine. A relationship is established between the tip speed ratios and the positions of the broken vortex circles. It is further found that the dominant frequency amplitude gradually increases with the increase of tip speed ratio and the pressure amplitude spectra of vortex increases with the decrease of the distance between the wake and the center of the blade axis. The above series of studies can provide significant physical insight into deep understanding the influence of the tip speed ratio on the wake characteristics of wind turbines.
Microtopography causes small‐scale variation in harvest and forage quality of high‐yielding silage grassland in northern Germany
Authors: Mroncz Angelika , Isselstein Johannes , Komainda Martin , Leuschner Christoph
Published: March 2024

Background

Local sward dieback, especially in grasslands on peat soil, in response to the extreme 2018/2019 drought demonstrates climate vulnerability of intensive grasslands in northern Central Europe.

Methods

We explore the influence of microtopography, that is, the within‐field mosaic of depressions and elevated patches, on soil volumetric moisture content, standing biomass and biomass crude protein (CP) and fibre content in intensively managed grassland on peat soil in a moist year (2021) and a dry year (2022) for quantifying small‐scale spatial heterogeneity within a field.

Results

We found high within‐field variation in soil moisture, biomass and forage quality and a moisture dependence of productivity that was stronger in the dry year. CP ranged from 10% to 25% within a field, being lower in moist depressions than elevated patches in the wet (but not in the dry) summer.

Conclusions

The moister depressions help to limit the overall productivity decline in dry summers, whereas, in moist summers, the higher dry patches produce more protein‐rich forage than the depressions, where productivity is higher but quality is lower. We recommend adapting grassland management to this heterogeneity through spatially differentiated management regimes in order to better cope with an increasingly drier and more variable climate.
Fecal microbiota reveal adaptation of herbivores to the extreme environment of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Zou Hao , Li Qi , Liu Jie , Wang Xiangtao , Gao Qun , Yang Yunfeng , Zhao Xinquan
Published: March 2024

Background

Gut microbiota is pivotal in regulating hosts' biological processes and maintaining homeostasis, but knowledge about its role in wild herbivores in extreme environments remains limited.

Methods

Gut bacteria and fungi were sequenced in ruminant (Chiru and Yak) and nonruminant (Kiang) herbivores on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, and their community structure, co‐occurrence networks, functions, and assembly mechanisms were investigated using multivariate ecological and statistical methods.

Results

Kiang had lower gut microbial diversity than Chiru and Yak. Bacterial host‐specific exclusivity was greater than that of fungi. In addition to the evidence of glycan biosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism, Chiru had a high Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and low animal pathogen abundance, suggesting better adaptation to the plateau's harsh environment. Additionally, members of gut microbiota tended to co‐occur rather than co‐exclude in all herbivores. Different network complexity and stability patterns were observed between bacterial and fungal communities. Furthermore, gut bacterial assembly was primarily controlled by stochastic dispersal limitation and drift, whereas fungal assembly was primarily controlled by deterministic homogeneous selection except in Chiru.

Conclusions

On the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, Chiru and Yak exhibit more diverse gut microbiota and more diverse metabolic functions than Kiang, and gut bacteria are more divergent than gut fungi in these herbivores.
Atypical co‐development of the thalamus and cortex in autism: Evidence from age‐related white–gray contrast change
Authors: Bezgin Gleb , Lewis John D. , Fonov Vladimir S. , Collins D. Louis , Evans Alan C.
Published: March 2024

Recent studies have shown that white–gray contrast (WGC) of either cortical or subcortical gray matter provides for accurate predictions of age in typically developing (TD) children, and that, at least for the cortex, it changes differently with age in subjects with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to their TD peers. Our previous study showed different patterns of contrast change between ASD and TD in sensorimotor and association cortices. While that study was confined to the cortex, we hypothesized that subcortical structures, particularly the thalamus, were involved in the observed cortical dichotomy between lower and higher processing. The current paper investigates that hypothesis using the WGC measures from the thalamus in addition to those from the cortex. We compared age‐related WGC changes in the thalamus to those in the cortex. To capture the simultaneity of this change across the two structures, we devised a metric capturing the co‐development of the thalamus and cortex (CoDevTC), proportional to the magnitude of cortical and thalamic age‐related WGC change. We calculated this metric for each of the subjects in a large homogeneous sample taken from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE) (N = 434). We used structural MRI data from the largest high‐quality cross‐sectional sample (NYU) as well as two other large high‐quality sites, GU and OHSU, all three using Siemens 3T scanners. We observed that the co‐development features in ASD and TD exhibit contrasting patterns; specifically, some higher‐order thalamic nuclei, such as the lateral dorsal nucleus, exhibited reduction in codevelopment with most of the cortex in ASD compared to TD. Moreover, this difference in the CoDevTC pattern correlates with a number of behavioral measures across multiple cognitive and physiological domains. The results support previous notions of altered connectivity in autism, but add more specific evidence about the heterogeneity in thalamocortical development that elucidates the mechanisms underlying the clinical features of ASD.
Head and neck reconstruction with the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) free flap: Lessons learned after 73 cases
Authors: Scaglioni Mario F. , Meroni Matteo , Tomasetti Patrick E. , Rajan Gunesh P.
Published: March 2024

Background

Head and neck tissue defects after ablative surgery often require complex and composite reconstructions. The superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap is an extremely versatile perforator‐based flap with minimal donor site morbidity, which may represent the optimal procedure in this setting. Over the last 5 years, we collected a large base of experience, including both simple and chimeric SCIP‐based reconstruction, making this flap our first choice for head and neck reconstructions.

Patients and Methods

Seventy‐three patients undergoing ablative head and neck surgery for oncologic pathologies were treated by means of a SCIP flap reconstruction. Patients' mean age was 67 years old (range 37–89), 51 were males and 22 were females. Fifty‐eight flaps were simple and 15 were chimeric reconstruction patterns. Indocyanine green perfusion imaging was performed in all cases.

Results

All the patients were successfully treated with no flap losses were encountered. Twelve patients encountered postoperative complications: in four cases revision surgery was required for venous congestion, while the remaining cases were managed conservatively (four wound dehiscence and three infections). No patients showed donor site complications. The mean follow‐up period was 11 months (range 3–24).

Conclusions

Our case series demonstrates the reliability and versatility of the SCIP flap for different kinds of head and neck reconstructions. The chimeric options combined with bone, double skin paddle, and muscle offer a broad variety of functional reconstructive solutions for complex head and neck surgeries. Intraoperative indocyanine green perfusion examination provides a valuable tool to assess and ascertain proper vascularization and post‐anastomosis vessel patency in complex microvascular flap‐based reconstructions.
Exosomes secreted from induced pluripotent stem cell ameliorate the lipopolysaccharide induced neuroinflammatory response via lncRNA‐0949
Authors: Ma Lixiu , Xiao Ce , Zhang Zhizhe , Zhan Yi‐an
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To study the effect of exosomes derived from the induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in the neuroinflammatory response of microglia caused by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and reveal the potential underlying mechanism.

Methods

A permanent microglia cell line HMO6 was activated by LPS. The features of exosomes were analyzed by nano flow cytometry, Western blot and transmission electron microscope. The RNA‐seq was used to analyze the difference of noncoding RNA profiles between iPSC‐Exos and HMO6 derived exosomes and proved that long no‐coding RNA (lncRNA‐0949) was highly expressed in the iPSC‐Exos. Activated HMO6 cells were cocultured with iPSC‐Exos in which lncRNA‐0949 was overexpressed, knocked down or normally expressed. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Western blot assay were adopted to analyze RNA and protein expression of inflammatory factors in HMO6 cells.

Results

The oxidative stress and inflammatory response of microglia were significantly attenuated with the iPSC derived exosomes treatment. LncRNA‐0949 was effectively delivered into the HMO6 cells through the iPSC‐Exos, which largely alleviated the production of malondialdehyde, IL‐6, IL‐1β and TNF‐α in HMO6 cells. Overexpression of lncRNA‐0949 could enhance the anti‐inflammatory effect of the iPSC‐Exos, and knock‐down of lncRNA‐0949 impaired this availability.

Conclusion

According to our results, lncRNA‐0949 enriched exosomes from iPSC could potentially be used as a therapeutic strategy to prevent/treat neuroinflammatory diseases.
Case report: Systemic lupus erythematosus combined with myocardial hypertrophy
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Wei Xinfeng , Yang Wenqing , Zhang Dan
Published: March 2024

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem‐involved, highly heterogeneous autoimmune disease with diverse clinical manifestations. We report an extremely rare case of SLE with severe diffuse myocardial hypertrophy.

Methods

The patientʼs echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) results indicated diffuse myocardial hypertrophy. After excluding coronary atherosclerosis, hypertensive cardiomyopathy, drug toxicity, and other causes, the patient was diagnosed with SLE‐specific cardiomyopathy. Medications such as hormones, antimalarials, immunosuppressants, and biologics were administered.

Results

Ancillary test results were as follows: hs‐cTnI: 0.054 ng/mL (0–0.016); NTproBNP: 1594.0 pg/mL (<150); A contrast‐enhanced CMR revealed the diffuse thickening of the left ventricular wall with multiple abnormal enhancements, reduced left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, and moderate amount of pericardial effusion. Endomyocardial myocardial biopsy was performed, showing cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and degeneration, and no changes in myocarditis or amyloidosis. The pathology viewed by electron microscopy showed increased intracellular glycogen in the myocardium, and no hydroxychloroquine‐associated damage in the myocardium. The 24‐h ambulatory blood pressure and contrast‐enhanced computed tomography of coronary arteries were normal. The diagnosis of SLE‐specific cardiomyopathy was clear. The myocardial hypertrophy showed reversible alleviation following treatment with high‐dose corticosteroids. CMR results before and after treatment were as follows: interventricular septum, pretreatment (28) versus post‐treatment (22) mm; left ventricular inferior wall, pretreatment (18–21) versus post‐treatment (12–14) mm; left ventricular lateral wall, pretreatment (17–18) versus post‐treatment (10–12) mm; pericardial effusion (left ventricular lateral wall), pretreatment (25) versus post‐treatment (12) mm; left ventricular ejection fraction, pretreatment (38.9%) versus post‐treatment (66%).

Conclusion

Myocardial hypertrophy may be an important sign of active and prognostic assessment in SLE diagnosis and management. Similarly, when encountering cases of myocardial hypertrophy, the possibility of autoimmune disease should be considered in addition to common causes.