bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One‐Step Synthesis of Chiral 9,10‐Dihydrophenanthrenes via Ligand‐Enabled Enantioselective Cascade β,γ‐Diarylation of Acids
Authors: Sheng Tao , Kang Guowei , Zhang Tao , Meng Guangrong , Zhuang Zhe , Chekshin Nikita , Yu Jin‐Quan
Published: July 2024

Pd(II)‐catalyzed enantioselective C−H activation has emerged as a versatile platform for constructing point, axial, and planar chirality. Herein, we present an unexpected discovery of a Pd‐catalyzed enantioselective cascade β,γ‐methylene C(sp3)−H diarylation of free carboxylic acids using bidentate chiral mono‐protected amino thioether ligands (MPAThio), enabling one‐step synthesis of a complex chiral 9,10‐dihydrophenanthrene scaffolds with high enantioselectivity. In this process, two methylene C(sp3)−H bonds and three C(sp2)−H bonds were activated, leading to the formation of four C−C bonds and three chiral centers in one pot. A plausible catalytic pathway starts with enantioselective β,γ‐dehydrogenation to form chiral β,γ‐cyclohexene. Intriguingly, this olefin serves as a norbornene‐type reagent (presumably assisted by the carboxyl directing effect), relaying two successive Catellani arylation reactions and a C−H arylation reaction to furnish chiral 9,10‐dihydrophenanthrenes along with meta‐selective homocoupling products of iodoarene.
Iron‐catalyzed C‐7 Selective NH2 Amination of Indoles
Authors: Wang Zhan‐Lin , Cheng Jin‐Kai , Wang Fei
Published: July 2024

7‐Aminoindoles are important synthetic intermediates to a broad range of bioactive molecules. Transition metal‐catalyzed directed C−H amination is among the most straightforward route for their synthesis, whereas methods that could directly incorporate an NH2 group in a highly selective manner remains elusive. Moreover, there is still high demand for the development of earth‐abundant metal catalysis for such attractive reactivity. We present here the first C‐7 selective NH2 amination of indoles through a directed homolytic aromatic substitution (HAS) with iron‐aminyl radical. The reaction exhibits broad substrate scope, tolerates variety of functional groups, and is readily scalable with catalyst loading down to 0.1 mol % and turnover number (TON) up to 4500.
Spontaneous Transition between Multiple Conductance States and Rectifying Behaviors in an Artificial Single‐Molecule Funnel
Authors: Lin Jia‐Fen , Wang Xu‐Dong , Ao Yu‐Fei , Wang Qi‐Qiang , Wang De‐Xian
Published: July 2024

It has long been an aspirational goal to create artificial channel structures that replicate the feat achieved by ion channel proteins. Biological ion channels occasionally demonstrate multiple conductance states (known as subconductance), remaining a challenging property to achieve in artificial channel molecules. We report a funnel‐shaped single‐molecule channel constructed by an electron‐deficient macrocycle and two electron‐deficient aromatic imide arms. Planar lipid bilayer measurements reveal distinct current recordings, including a closed state, two conducting states, and spontaneous transitions between the three states, resembling the events seen in biological ion channels. The transitions result from conformational changes induced by chloride transport in the channel molecule. Both opening states show a non‐linear and rectifying I–V relationship, indicating voltage‐dependent transport due to the asymmetrical channel structure. This work could enhance our understanding of ion permeation and channel opening mechanism.
Forward osmosis membrane substrates with low structure parameter: Modification with PSf‐g‐PMMA graft copolymer
Authors: Takabi Amin , Shakeri Alireza , Razavi Reza
Published: July 2024

In this work, using the combination of atom transfer radical polymerization and click chemistry, the graft copolymer polysulfone‐graft‐poly (methyl methacrylate) (PSf‐g‐PMMA) was synthesized as a modifying agent. The copolymer was embedded in the PSf substrate using a nonsolvent phase inversion method. Then, the modified substrate was used to make thin film composite forward osmosis (TFC‐FO) membranes using the interfacial polymerization method. Also, the effect of PSf‐g‐PMMA copolymer content on the surface properties of the membrane, as well as the filtration performance, was investigated. The increase in hydrophilicity, porosity, and average pore diameter indicated the favorable effect of PSf‐g‐PMMA copolymer on the characteristics of modified substrates. In addition, the improvement in the membrane morphology (an increase in the length and number of finger‐like pores) provided a substrate with low tortuosity and structure parameters. Therefore, the pure water permeability increased from 79.9 LMH/bar for the control membrane to 372.1 LMH/bar for the membrane containing 20 wt.% of PSf‐g‐PMMA copolymer. Investigating the FO separation properties of TFC‐FO membranes showed an increase in water flux and selectivity due to an improvement in the morphology of the modified substrate with low structural parameters. The new TFC‐FO membranes have been optimized, and water flux has significantly improved. Compared with the control membrane, which did not have copolymer blending, the new membranes have a triply enhanced water flux of 17.1 LMH. In addition, the selectivity of these optimized membranes has improved when 1 M NaCl is used as the draw, and DI water is used as the feed in the FO mode.
Co3V2O8 Composite Carbon Hollow Spheres Bidirectionally Catalyze the Conversion of Lithium Polysulfide to Improve the Capacity of Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhang Jiangnan , Xiao Mingjun , Du Wei , Feng Jiawei , Xiang Qiang , Meng Yanshuang , Zhu Fuliang
Published: July 2024

Although lithium‐sulfur batteries have a high theoretical energy density that is higher than lithium‐ion batteries, their development is limited by the slow kinetics of lithium polysulfide conversion. In this research, we utilize the excellent bidirectional catalysis and adsorption of lithium polysulfide by the bimetallic oxide Co3V2O8 composite carbon hollow sphere to address the kinetic obstacle of lithium‐sulfur battery. On the one hand, the carbon hollow sphere substrate provides a cavity that can hold a large amount of sulfur. On the other hand, it can limit the diffusion of lithium polysulfide by van der Waals forces. The combination of the above two points improves the capacity and stability of lithium‐sulfur batteries. It has a specific capacity of 1237.2 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C current density and retains 603 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. At a high current density of 2 C, the specific capacity is 976.2 mAh g−1. After 1000 cycles, it holds at 338.3 mAh g−1, and the capacity retention rate per cycle is 99.89 %. This work discovers the new potential of Co3V2O8 as an electrocatalyst and proposes a process that can widely prepare carbon materials with complex uniform distribution of electrocatalysts to achieve high specific capacity of lithium‐sulfur batteries.
Health citizenship reveals ‘extra’ work managing biopolitical risk for immigrants in Canada during COVID‐19: A qualitative study
Authors: Leung Doris Y. L. , Guruge Sepali , Wang Angel H. , Lee Charlotte
Published: July 2024

One's health security (i.e., the ability to minimize risks and respond to public health threats) is a conferred right of citizenship but individuals construct identities during the process of securing their health. However, how this occurs, in relationship to the state, remains largely implicit or taken‐for‐granted. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19)' provided a unique opportunity to explore the relationship between oneself and governing social norms of health citizenship. We drew on secondary analysis of data from a previous (published) qualitative descriptive study that was conducted during May to September 2020 of COVID‐19, to explore 72 immigrants' experience (from 21 countries) of health security in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada. Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews and analysed using critical realism. The majority of participants were women. We demonstrate how individuals implicitly engaged in ‘extra’ work—gendered and driven by mechanisms of good citizenship—connected to the will to health, against ethopolitical work to regulate risks, of and for themselves, in public discourse. Public discourse tended to follow racialized hegemonic norms, which also reproduced systemic cultural racism. We argue that empathetic understanding of this process is conducive to enhancing one's resistance to stereotypes, and to bolstering immigrants' resilience to seeking health security during public health emergencies.
STING‐Activating Small Molecular Therapeutics for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Huang Chuhan , Tong Tianrui , Ren Lulu , Wang Hangxiang
Published: July 2024

Immuno‐oncology has become a revolutionary strategy for cancer treatment. Therapeutic interventions based on adaptive immunity through immune checkpoint therapy or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have received clinical approval for monotherapy and combination treatment in various cancers. Although these treatments have achieved clinical successes, only a minority of cancer patients show a response, highlighting the urgent need to discover new therapeutic molecules that could be exploited to improve clinical outcomes and pave the way for the next generation of immunotherapy. Given the critical role of the innate immune system against infection and cancer, substantial efforts have been dedicated to developing novel anticancer therapeutics that target these pathways. Targeting the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is a powerful strategy to generate a durable antitumor response, and activation of the adaptor protein STING induces the initiation of transcriptional cascades, thereby producing type I interferons, pro‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Various STING agonists, including natural or synthetic cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs), have been developed as anticancer therapeutics. However, since most CDNs are confined to intratumoral administration, there has been a great interest in developing non‐nucleotide agonists for systemic treatment. Here, we review the current development of STING‐activating therapeutics in both preclinical and clinical stages.
Investigating the Mechanism of Triboluminescence: Insights from Structural and Electrostatic Characterization of Copper Thiocyanate Complexes
Authors: Hoshino Manabu , Ohgo Yoshiki
Published: July 2024

Triboluminescence is a phenomenon in which light is generated through mechanical stress; it has emerging applications in stress‐sensing devices. Although the prevailing mechanistic model indicates that light emits from charge separation and recombination in fracture planes arising from polar structures, its application in designing triboluminescent materials remains limited owing to numerous exceptions. This study provides insights into the essential requirements for triboluminescence by investigating the structural and electrostatic properties of fractured crystals of copper thiocyanate complexes. The examined fracture plane indicated that charge pairs (which are essential for light emission) form when intermolecular interactions are disrupted during fracturing. On the basis of the nature of these charges, we successfully suppressed triboluminescence by inhibiting the formation of intermolecular interactions disrupted in the examined complexes. Furthermore, we induced its re‐emergence by creating an alternative fracture plane through controlled manipulation of the molecular network. This demonstrative deactivation and reactivation of triboluminescence underscores the critical role of intermolecular disruption in generating charge pairs, a prerequisite for triboluminescence.
ABC Efflux Transporters and Solute Carriers in the Early Developing Brain of a Marsupial Monodelphis domestica (South American Gray Short‐Tailed Opossum)
Authors: Huang Yifan , Dziegielewska Katarzyna M. , Habgood Mark D. , Qiu Fiona , Leandro Ana C. C. , Callaghan Paul D. , Curran Joanne E. , VandeBerg John L. , Saunders Norman R.
Published: July 2024

This study used a marsupial Monodelphis domestica, which is born very immature and most of its development is postnatal without placental protection. RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐Seq) was used to identify the expression of influx and efflux transporters (ATP‐binding cassettes [ABCs] and solute carriers [SLCs]) and metabolizing enzymes in brains of newborn to juvenile Monodelphis. Results were compared to published data in the developing eutherian rat. To test the functionality of these transporters at similar ages, the entry of paracetamol (acetaminophen) into the brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was measured using liquid scintillation counting following a single administration of the drug along with its radiolabelled tracer [3H]. Drug permeability studies found that in Monodelphis, brain entry of paracetamol was already restricted at P5; it decreased further in the first week of life and then remained stable until the oldest age group tested (P110). Transcriptomic analysis of Monodelphis brain showed that expression of transporters and their metabolizing enzymes in early postnatal (P) pups (P0, P5, and P8) was relatively similar, but by P109, many more transcripts were identified. When transcriptomes of newborn Monodelphis brain and E19 rat brain and placenta were compared, several transporters present in the rat placenta were also found in the newborn Monodelphis brain. These were absent from E19 rat brain but were present in the adult rat brain. These data indicate that despite its extreme immaturity, the newborn Monodelphis brain may compensate for the lack of placental protection during early brain development by upregulating protective mechanisms, which in eutherian animals are instead present in the placenta.
Determinants and benefits of over‐certification: A signaling theory perspective
Authors: Valero‐Gil Jesus , Daddi Tiberio , Scarpellini Sabina , Marrucci Luca
Published: July 2024

Different types of organizations use certifications to reduce information asymmetry in an extensive range of business activities. In some cases, the widespread use of certifications can lead to multiple competing and overlapping standards. Some organizations also obtain similar certifications in a process defined as over‐certification, which is understudied in the literature. The primary objective of this study is to identify the determinants of the over‐certification process, specifically regarding the influence of stakeholders that motivate organizations to engage in over‐certification. Grounded in both signaling and stakeholder theories, this study confirms the isomorphic effect of stakeholders' pressures that creates different motivations for using different (but similar) certifications. An empirical analysis of a sample of 418 European organizations highlights that the decoupling in the interest in certifications is the main antecedent of over‐certification in relation to corporate social responsibility‐related certifications. Our results also show that the occurrence of over‐certification in organizations is mainly due to its ability to impact corporate reputation, confirming the signaling value of different (but similar) certifications.
Longevity of hymenopteran parasitoids in natural versus agricultural habitats and implications for biological control
Authors: Kishinevsky Miriam , Ives Anthony R.
Published: July 2024

Agricultural habitats are frequently disturbed, and disturbances could have major effects on species in upper trophic levels such as hymenopteran parasitoids that are important for biological control. A strategy for conservation biological control is to provide a diversified agricultural landscape which increases the availability of resources such as sugar required by parasitoid biological control agents. Here, we ask whether parasitoids occurring in agriculture benefit from sugar resources more or less than parasitoids occurring in natural habitats surrounding agricultural fields. We collected parasitoids from agricultural alfalfa fields, field margins, and natural prairies, and in the lab we randomly divided them into two treatments: half were given a constant supply of a sugar source to test their residual lifespan, and half were given neither sugar nor water to test their hardiness. Collected individuals were monitored daily and their day of death recorded. Parasitoids receiving a sugar source lived substantially longer than those without. Parasitoids collected in prairies lived longer than those from alfalfa fields in both the residual lifespan and hardiness treatments, with parasitoids from field margins being intermediate between them. Furthermore, the benefits of a sugar source to increase longevity was lower for parasitoids collected in agriculture than in natural habitats. This suggests that, even though parasitoid biological control agents benefit from sugar resources, their short lifespans make the benefit of sugar resources small compared to parasitoids that occur in natural habitats and have longer lifespans, and are adapted to consistent sugar sources.
Drivers of human–tiger conflict risk and potential mitigation approaches
Authors: Cheng Wannian , Gray Thomas N. E. , Bao Heng , Wen Dusu , Liang Xuankai , She Wen , Zhang Wentao , Roberts Nathan J. , Gu Jiayin , Qi Jinzhe , Jiang Guangshun
Published: July 2024

Human–wildlife conflict has become a significant challenge for conservationists, particularly in areas where endangered species, such as large carnivores, are recovering. If we fail to keep a balance between the interests of humans and wildlife, the human–wildlife conflict can have adverse outcomes. However, the drivers of human–wildlife conflict, and how to mitigate conflict, are often poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore the possible causes for and potential mitigating approaches to human–tiger conflict risks through spatiotemporal niche partitioning. Based on data from the reports of Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) preying on cattle and camera trap detection data from 2014 to 2019 in Hunchun, Northeast China, we predicted Amur tiger occurrence and created risk maps of human–tiger potential encounters. We found that Amur tiger occurrence was positively driven by prey distribution and negatively by the distribution of pastures used for domestic cattle grazing. Livestock was increasingly predated in areas with limited preferred prey, that is, wild pig (Sus scrofa) and sika (Cervus nippon), and in closer proximity to cattle‐grazing land. On the basis of our models, we divided areas utilized by human and Amur tigers into low‐, medium‐, and high‐risk areas across multiple spatiotemporal scales. We suppose that multiple spatiotemporal scale niche partitioning management might effectively reduce the risk of human–tiger encounters, prompt harmonized coexistence between humans and tigers, and provide new solutions to other areas experiencing human–wildlife conflicts.
Can environmental DNA be used within pest insect agricultural biosecurity? Detecting khapra beetle within stored rice
Authors: Vastano Anthony R. , Allen Michael C. , Penca Cory J. , Stringham Oliver C. , Domingue Michael J. , Lockwood Julie L.
Published: July 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) has recently emerged as an effective tool for invasive species biosecurity. We explored the use of eDNA for the detection of khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium, Everts 1898), an invasive insect of cereal grains and other food products that has a high global economic impact. We developed a novel method for aggregating khapra beetle eDNA deposited in stored grain that entails washing a sample of rice, filtering the sample, and detecting trace beetle DNA using a standard qPCR workflow. To explore the performance of this method, we raised 500 khapra beetle larvae within 500 g of rice over a 14‐day period and then removed them. We then used this “spiked” rice to create a range of simulated densities of khapra beetle larvae. This lab approach mimics conditions that are comparable to field densities of ~1.4 to 180 beetles per 50 kg of rice (1/8 to 16 spiked rice grains per 100 g sample of clean rice), assuming DNA is uniformly distributed within the rice. We detected khapra beetle eDNA from all density levels tested. Logistic models revealed that eDNA amounts equivalent to what is left by ~1 khapra beetle larva in a 50 kg container of rice can be detected with 85% to >97% certainty, depending on the number of qPCR technical replicates run per sample. Based on this model, we estimated that for one 50 kg container of rice where beetle DNA is uniformly distributed, a single sample of 100 g with six technical replicates would be sufficient to be >99% certain that the container was free of khapra beetle eDNA (95% credible intervals: 97.7%–100%). Our results suggest that eDNA surveys may be useful as a cost‐effective, first‐step detection of khapra beetle in stored grain and provide a means to map the relative magnitude of khapra beetle transport pathways, informing allocation of conventional biosecurity inspection efforts.
Sustained innate interferon is an essential inducer of tertiary lymphoid structures
Authors: Calvanese Anna Laura , Cecconi Virginia , Stäheli Severin , Schnepf Daniel , Nater Marc , Pereira Paulo , Gschwend Julia , Heikenwälder Mathias , Schneider Christoph , Ludewig Burkhard , Silina Karina , van den Broek Maries
Published: July 2024

Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) resemble follicles of secondary lymphoid organs and develop in nonlymphoid tissues during inflammation and cancer. Which cell types and signals drive the development of TLS is largely unknown. To investigate early events of TLS development in the lungs, we repeatedly instilled p(I:C) plus ovalbumin (Ova) intranasally. This induced TLS ranging from lymphocytic aggregates to organized and functional structures containing germinal centers. We found that TLS development is independent of FAP+ fibroblasts, alveolar macrophages, or CCL19 but crucially depends on type I interferon (IFN‐I). Mechanistically, IFN‐I initiates two synergistic pathways that culminate in the development of TLS. On the one hand, IFN‐I induces lymphotoxin (LT)α in lymphoid cells, which stimulate stromal cells to produce the B‐cell‐attracting chemokine CXCL13 through LTβR‐signaling. On the other hand, IFN‐I is sensed by stromal cells that produce the T‐cell‐attracting chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10 as well as CCL19 and CCL21 independently of LTβR. Consequently, B‐cell aggregates develop within a week, whereas follicular dendritic cells and germinal centers appear after 3 weeks. Thus, sustained production of IFN‐I together with an antigen is essential for the induction of functional TLS in the lungs.
Prioritise safety, optimise success! Return to rugby postpartum
Authors: Donnelly GM , Coltman CE , Dane K , Elliott‐Sale KJ , Hayman M , McCarthy‐Ryan MF , Perkins J , Rollins S , Moore IS
Published: July 2024

Pregnancy and childbirth involve substantial physical, physiological and psychological changes. As such, postpartum rugby players should be supported and appropriately prepared to return to the demands of rugby alongside the additional demands of motherhood. This review aims to discuss specific perinatal considerations that inform a rugby player's readiness to return‐to‐sport postpartum and present an approach to rehabilitation. Before engaging in full rugby training and matchplay, postpartum players should have progressed through the initial phases of rehabilitation and graded sports‐specific training to prepare them for the loads they will be exposed to. Additional rehabilitation considerations include minimising deconditioning during pregnancy; medical concerns; the abdominal wall; the pelvic floor; perinatal breast changes, breastfeeding and risk of contact breast injury; body mass; nutritional requirements; hormonal considerations; athlete identity and psychological considerations; joining team training; return to contact and tackle training; evaluating player load tolerance and future research, policy and surveillance needs. A whole‐systems, biopsychosocial approach following an evidence informed return‐to‐sport framework is recommended when rehabilitating postpartum rugby players. Health and exercise professionals are encouraged to use the perinatal‐specific recommendations in this review to guide the development of postpartum rehabilitation protocols and resources.
Pyrolysis of wheat straw pellets in a pilot‐scale reactor: Effect of temperature and residence time
Authors: Nath Bidhan , Chen Guangnan , Bowtell Les , Nguyen‐Huy Thong
Published: July 2024

Pyrolysis of two types of pellets (T1: 100% wheat straw, and T2: 70% wheat straw; 10% sawdust, 10% biochar, and 10% bentonite clay) was performed in a pilot‐scale reactor under a nitrogen environment at 20°C to 700°C. This was to investigate slow pyrolysis yields and gas composition as a function of temperature and residence time. The experimental data were obtained between 300°C and 600°C, with a residence time of 90 min, a nitrogen flow rate of 50 cm3/min, and a heating rate of 20°C/min. The results indicated that the maximum pyrolysis temperature is 605°C with a residence time of 55 min. The product analysis showed that the proportion of gas was higher than that of biochar and bio‐oil. The conversion efficiency increased with higher temperatures and varied between 66% and 76%. The results showed that carbon dioxide was the main component in the produced gas, and the maximum gas concentration was 63.6% at 300°C for T1. The higher temperature and longer residence time increased the syngas (CO + H2) composition for both T1 and T2 treatments. Nevertheless, the produced biochar had a high carbon content and retained a high calorific value, indicating slow pyrolysis is the ideal utilization route of wheat straw pellet biomass for biochar.
Effect of Insecticide Exposure Across Multiple Generations of the Earthworm Eisenia andrei
Authors: Martin William J. , Sibley Paul K. , Prosser Ryan S.
Published: July 2024

The toxicity of neonicotinoids and many of their replacement insecticides to nontarget soil invertebrates such as earthworms has previously been established. However, the long-term effects of these substances on these organisms are largely unknown. In the field of soil ecotoxicology, lumbricid earthworms such as Eisenia andrei are used extensively due to the availability of standardized test methods and their adaptability to laboratory culture and testing. Multigenerational studies have gained popularity and attention in recent years, with a shift toward the use of long-term assays and lower concentrations of test chemicals. The use of exposure concentrations that include those measured in a monitoring program carried out by the Government of Ontario presents a realistic exposure scenario that may not show significant effects in contemporary, shorter term studies. We used current standardized test methods as a basis for the development of multigenerational studies on E. andrei. The effects of exposure to a single application of the insecticides thiamethoxam and cyantraniliprole on the survival and reproduction of E. andrei were observed over three (thiamethoxam) or two (cyantraniliprole) generations using consecutive reproduction tests. No significant impacts on adult survival were reported in any generation for either insecticide, whereas reproduction decreased between the first and second generations in the thiamethoxam test, with median effective concentration (EC50) values of 0.022 mg/kg dry weight reported for the first generation compared with 0.002 mg/kg dry weight in the second generation. For cyantraniliprole, an EC50 of 0.064 was determined for the first generation compared with 0.016 mg/kg dry weight in the second generation. A third generation was completed for the thiamethoxam test, and a significant decrease in reproduction was observed in all treatments and controls compared with previous generations. No significant difference between thiamethoxam treatments and the control treatment was reported for the third generation. Collectively, these data indicate that exposure of oligochaetes to these two insecticides at concentrations representative of field conditions may result in long-term stresses. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2058–2070. © 2024 The Author(s). Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Nanopore DNA Sequencing Detected Chromothripsis‐Induced PAFAH1B1::USP6 Rearrangement in Periosteal Solid Aneurysmal Bone Cyst Initially Diagnosed as Osteosarcoma
Authors: Makise Naohiro , Lin Jason , Kageyama Hajime , Kinoshita Hideyuki , Kamoda Hiroto , Hagiwara Yoko , Oikawa Mariko , Sugiyama Takahiro , Kawana Hidetada , Araki Akinobu , Yonemoto Tsukasa , Kawazu Masahito , Itami Makiko
Published: July 2024

An aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a benign bone neoplasm that typically occurs during the first and second decades of life. ABC usually presents as a rapidly growing intramedullary expansile mass with multiple blood‐filled cysts in the metaphysis of the long tubular bones. Here, we report a case of a periosteal solid ABC that was initially diagnosed as a high‐grade surface osteosarcoma. A 10‐year‐old male was referred to our hospital for swelling and tenderness of the left upper arm. Radiography revealed periosteal mass without fluid–fluid levels. On performing open biopsy, the tumor showed hypercellular proliferation of uniform spindle to epithelioid cells with brisk mitotic activity (up to 12/2 mm2) and lace‐like osteoid formation, which was diagnosed as a high‐grade surface osteosarcoma. After one course of chemotherapy using adriamycin and cisplatin, peripheral sclerosis was conspicuous, which led to pathological review and revision of diagnosis as “possibly osteoblastoma.” The patient was disease‐free for 4 years after marginal resection and curettage. Retrospective nanopore DNA sequencing unexpectedly detected a PAFAH1B1::USP6 rearrangement. The fusion gene was further validated using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and the diagnosis was revised to ABC. Chromothripsis involving chromosome 17 has also been identified. Methylation analysis classified the present tumor as an ABC or non‐ossifying fibroma using t‐distributed stochastic neighbor embedding and unsupervised hierarchical clustering. This case report highlights the utility of nanopore DNA sequencing for soft tissue and bone tumor diagnosis.
Comparison of unilateral versus bilateral central neck dissection for clinically invasive papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Min Lei , Weng Yujing , Li Yuan , Liu Die , Huang Zhiheng
Published: July 2024

Background

The American Thyroid Association guidelines primarily recommend central neck dissection for papillary thyroid carcinoma with advanced primary tumors or clinically positive neck nodes. However, the appropriate extent of dissection remains unclear. We aimed to compare the rate of locoregional recurrence between unilateral and bilateral central neck dissection in invasive papillary thyroid carcinoma.

Methods

Among 330 consecutive patients who underwent total thyroidectomy with central neck dissection for advanced papillary thyroid carcinoma, 212 underwent unilateral central neck dissection (UCND group) while 118 underwent bilateral central neck dissection (BCND group). We performed 1:1 propensity score matching, resulting in 99 matched pairs. Surgical outcomes and safety were compared between the two groups. Additionally, the impact of surgery on locoregional recurrence was compared using survival analysis.

Results

During a follow‐up of 47.8 ± 20.4 months, 29 (8.8%) patients experienced locoregional recurrence within the entire study cohort. Following propensity score matching, no significant difference in recurrence‐free survival was observed between the two groups (log‐rank p = 0.516). Multivariate analysis revealed that only T4 staging was an independent risk factor for locoregional recurrence (p = 0.006). The mean number of total and metastatic central lymph nodes retrieved were significantly greater in BCND group (14.1 vs. 9.3, p < 0.001 and 6.8 vs. 4.6, p = 0.005, respectively). There was no significant difference in postoperative stimulated thyroglobulin levels between the two groups (0.79 ng/mL vs. 1.44 ng/mL, p = 0.389).

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates no prognostic benefit in conducting bilateral central neck dissection. Unilateral central neck dissection may be the preferred choice for clinically invasive papillary thyroid carcinoma.
Evaluation of no‐show rate in outpatient clinics with open access scheduling system: A systematic review
Authors: Mazaheri Habibi Mohammad Reza , Abadi Fahimeh Mohammad , Tabesh Hamed , Vakili‐arki Hasan , Abu‐Hanna Ameen , Ghaddaripouri Kosar , Eslami Saeid
Published: July 2024

Background

Patients' missed appointments can cause interference in the functions of the clinics and the visit of other patients. One of the most effective strategies to solve the problem of no‐show rate is the use of an open access scheduling system (OA). This systematic review was conducted with the aim of investigating the impact of OA on the rate of no‐show of patients in outpatient clinics.

Methods

Relevant articles in English were investigated based on the keywords in title and abstract using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and Google Scholar search engine (July 23, 2023). The articles using OA and reporting the no‐show rate were included. Exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) review articles, opinion, and letters, (2) inpatient scheduling system articles, and (3) modeling or simulating OA articles. Data were extracted from the selected articles about such issues as study design, outcome measures, interventions, results, and quality score.

Findings

From a total of 23,403 studies, 16 articles were selected. The specialized fields included family medicine (62.5%, 10), pediatrics (25%, four), ophthalmology, podiatric, geriatrics, internal medicine, and primary care (6.25%, one). Of 16 articles, 10 papers (62.5%) showed a significant decrease in the no‐show rate. In four articles (25%), the no‐show rate was not significantly reduced. In two papers (12.5%), there were no significant changes.

Conclusions

According to this study results, it seems that in most outpatient clinics, the use of OA by considering some conditions such as conducting needs assessment and system design based on the patients' and providers' actual needs, and cooperating of all system stakeholders through consistent training caused a significant decrease in the no‐show rate.
Comparison of two isotopic hydrograph separation methods in the Hydrological Open Air Laboratory, Austria
Authors: Szeles Borbala , Holko Ladislav , Parajka Juraj , Stumpp Christine , Stockinger Michael , Komma Jürgen , Rab Gerhard , Wyhlidal Stefan , Schott Katharina , Hogan Patrick , Pavlin Lovrenc , Strauss Peter , Schmaltz Elmar , Blöschl Günter
Published: July 2024

Exploring the contributions of new and old water to runoff during precipitation events in agricultural catchments is essential for understanding runoff generation, solute transport, and soil erosion. The aim of this study was to investigate the variability in the isotopic composition of precipitation and runoff in the 66 ha agricultural catchment in Austria, in the Hydrological Open Air Laboratory (HOAL), in order to compare two isotope hydrograph separation methods. The classical two‐component (IHS) and the ensemble hydrograph separation (EHS) were applied to multiple large events in May–October of 2013–2018 using δ18O and δ2H. The peak flow new water contributions obtained by IHS were compared with the average new water fraction from EHS. The average new water fraction calculated with EHS based on regular weekly sampling was close to zero, which can be explained by the large diffuse groundwater discharge into the stream between the events. When only investigating events with high temporal resolution sampling, the results suggest that EHS provided average new water fractions during peak flows (0.46 ± 0.04 for δ18O, 0.47 ± 0.03 for δ2H) that were close to the averages obtained by IHS (0.47 for δ18O, 0.50 for δ2H). New water fractions tended to be higher for larger rainfall intensities. High peak flow new water fractions could be explained by the agricultural land use and soils with low permeability promoting overland flow generation and by some of the tile drainage systems contributing to the delivery of water. In conclusion, a weekly sampling frequency was not sufficient in the HOAL but instead high‐resolution sampling during events was necessary to estimate the average new water contributions during events. While EHS may be a more robust approach compared to IHS, as it relaxes some of the assumptions of IHS, IHS can provide information on the variability of new water contributions of individual events.
The effect of wetting history, botanical composition and depth on the specific yield of two common types of bog peat
Authors: Baird Andy J. , Milner Alice M. , Morris Paul J. , Green Sophie M.
Published: July 2024

Specific yield affects how much the water table rises and falls in response to rainfall, to evaporation and to seepage gains and losses. It also affects the aeration of the soil above the water table. Although widely measured in peat soils, the effect of wetting history on its value has not been investigated. Specific yield has been estimated in many studies by cutting peat cores into layers, and measuring how much water drains from the individual layers after they have been wetted. Specific yield, however, is a phenomenon of the soil profile and not subsections, so this method may not provide a reliable estimate of its value. Few studies have reported on the effect of botanical composition on specific yield, or at least have not controlled for the effect by keeping other peat properties like degree of humification constant. We addressed these questions by measuring specific yield in intact cores of peat in a series of laboratory experiments. Two common but contrasting types of Sphagnum peat were investigated that had similar degrees of humification: Sphagnum medium peat and Sphagnum pulchrum peat. We found that specific yield was highly variable, ranging between 0.16 and 0.62. Specific yield was not affected by wetting history, but was significantly different between the peat types, being on average 0.21 higher in the S. pulchrum cores. Specific yield did not vary with depth in the S. medium cores but declined linearly with depth at a rate of 0.018 per cm in the Sphagnum pulchrum cores. Finally, we found that drainage from the peat profile above the zone through which the water table falls is an important component of specific yield, contributing more than 66%–91% of its value in the S. pulchrum peat. Our results show that wetting history probably does not need to be accounted for when estimating specific yield, although further work on this potential effect is recommended. Our work highlights the importance of measuring specific yield using intact cores (field methods may also be appropriate) and suggests that many previous peatland studies may have underestimated its value.
The immunomodulatory ballet of tumour‐derived extracellular vesicles and neutrophils orchestrating the dynamic CD73/PD‐L1 pathway in cancer
Authors: Rubenich Dominique S. , Domagalski Jordana L. , Gentil Gabriela F. S. , Eichberger Jonas , Fiedler Mathias , Weber Florian , Federlin Marianne , Poeck Hendrik , Reichert Torsten E. , Ettl Tobias , Bauer Richard J. , Braganhol Elizandra , Schulz Daniela
Published: July 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a global cancer burden with a 5‐year overall survival rate of around 50%, stagnant for decades. A tumour‐induced immunosuppressive microenvironment contributes to HNSCC progression, with the adenosine (ADO) pathway and an upregulated expression of inhibitory immune checkpoint regulators playing a key role in this context. The correlation between high neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with advanced tumour staging suggests involvement of neutrophils (NØ) in cancer progression. Interestingly, we associated a high NLR with an increased intracellular PD‐L1 localization in primary HNSCC samples, potentially mediating more aggressive tumour characteristics and therefore synergistically favouring tumour progression. Still, further research is needed to harness this knowledge for effective treatments and overcome resistance. Since it is hypothesized that the tumour microenvironment (TME) may be influenced by small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) secreted by tumours (TEX), this study aims to investigate the impact of HNSCC‐derived TEX on NØ and blockade of ADO receptors as a potential strategy to reverse the pro‐tumour phenotype of NØ. UMSCC47‐TEX exhibited CD73 enzymatic activity involved in ADO signalling, as well as the immune checkpoint inhibitor PD‐L1. Data revealed that TEX induce chemotaxis of NØ and the sustained interaction promotes a shift into a pro‐tumour phenotype, dependent on ADO receptors (P1R), increasing CD170high subpopulation, CD73 and PD‐L1 expression, followed by an immunosuppressive secretome. Blocking A3R reduced CD73 and PD‐L1 expression. Co‐culture experiments with HNSCC cells demonstrated that TEX‐modulated NØ increase the CD73/PD‐L1 axis, through Cyclin D‐CDK4/6 signalling. To support these findings, the CAM model with primary tumour was treated with NØ supernatant. Moreover, these NØ promoted an increase in migration, invasion, and reduced cell death. Targeting P1R on NØ, particularly A3R, exhibited potential therapeutic strategy to counteract immunosuppression in HNSCC. Understanding the TEX‐mediated crosstalk between tumours and NØ offers insights into immunomodulation for improving cancer therapies.
Diagnostics Accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Detection of Atherosclerotic Plaque Characteristics in Carotid Arteries Compared to Histology: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pakizer David , Kozel Jiří , Elmers Jolanda , Feber Janusz , Michel Patrik , Školoudík David , Sirimarco Gaia
Published: July 2024

Carotid plaque composition represents one of the main risk factors of future ischemic stroke. MRI provides excellent soft tissue contrast that can distinguish plaque characteristics. Our objective was to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of MRI imaging in the detection of carotid plaque characteristics compared to histology in patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis through a systematic review. After prospective registration in PROSPERO (ID CRD42022329690), Medline Ovid, Embase.com, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science Core were searched without any search limitation up to May 27, 2022 to identify eligible articles. Of the 8168 studies, 53 (37 × 1.5 T MRI, 17 × 3 T MRI) evaluated MRI accuracy in the detection of 13 specific carotid plaque characteristics in 169 comparisons. MRI demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy for detection of calcification (3 T MRI: mean sensitivity 92%/mean specificity 90%; 1.5 T MRI: mean sensitivity 81%/mean specificity 91%), fibrous cap (1.5 T: 89%/87%), unstable plaque (1.5 T: 89%/87%), intraplaque hemorrhage (1.5 T: 86%/88%), and lipid‐rich necrotic core (1.5 T: 89%/79%). MRI also proved to have a high level of tissue discrimination for the carotid plaque characteristics investigated, allowing potentially for a better risk assessment and follow‐up of patients who may benefit from more aggressive treatments. These results emphasize the role of MRI as the first‐line imaging modality for comprehensive assessment of carotid plaque morphology, particularly for unstable plaque.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
The Association of Epicardial Adipose Tissue Volume and Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: As Assessed by Cardiac MR
Authors: Li Chensi , Yu Honglin , Li Yuguo , Deng Wei , Jia Zhuoran , Xue Yangcheng , Wang Zhen , Xu Huimin , Yu Yongqiang , Zhao Ren , Han Yuchi , Zhu Yinsu , Li Xiaohu
Published: July 2024

Background

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a metabolically active visceral fat linked to cardiovascular disease. Prior studies demonstrated the predictive value of EAT volume (EATV) in atrial fibrillation (AF) among hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy patients.

Purpose

To investigate the association between EATV and AF in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Two hundred and twenty‐four HCM patients (including 79 patients with AF and 145 patients without AF, 154 men) and 80 healthy controls (54 men).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T scanner; balanced steady‐state free precession (SSFP) cine sequence, gradient echo.

Assessment

EAT thickness was assessed in the 4‐chamber and basal short‐axis planes. EAT volume was calculated by outlining the epicardial border and visceral pericardium layer on short‐axis cine images.

Statistical Tests

Shapiro–Wilk test, Student's t test or the Mann–Whitney U test, chi‐square test or Fisher's exact test, Multivariate linear regression analyses, Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. Intraclass correlation coefficient. Significance was determined at P < 0.05.

Results

EATV and EAT volume index (EATVI) were significantly greater in HCM patients with AF than those without AF (126.6 ± 25.9 mL vs. 90.5 ± 24.5 mL, and 73.0 ± 15.9 mL/m2 vs. 51.3 ± 13.4 mL/m2). EATVI was associated with AF in multivariable linear regression analysis among HCM patients (β = 0.62). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that compared to other indicators, the area under curve (AUC) of EATVI was 0.86 (cut‐off, 53.9 mL/m2, 95% CI, 0.80–0.89), provided a better performance, with the sensitivity of 96.2% and specificity of 58.6%. The combined model exhibited superior association with AF presence compared to the clinical model (AUC 0.96 vs. 0.76) and the imaging model (AUC 0.96 vs. 0.93).

Data Conclusion

EATVI was associated with AF. EATVI was significantly correlated with incident AF, and provided a better performance in HCM patients compared to other indicators.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Vagal‐α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor signaling exacerbates influenza severity by promoting lung epithelial cell infection
Authors: Zhao Caiqi , Pan Mengyao , Chen Jie , Li Ling , Zhang Yan , Liu Wenjun , Matthay Michael A. , Wang Haichao , Jin Xia , Xu Jin‐fu , Su Xiao
Published: July 2024

The vagus nerve circuit, operating through the alpha‐7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR), regulates the inflammatory response by influencing immune cells. However, the role of vagal‐α7 nAChR signaling in influenza virus infection is unclear. In particular, does vagal‐α7 nAChR signaling impact the infection of alveolar epithelial cells (AECs), the primary target cells of influenza virus? Here, we demonstrated a distinct role of α7 nAChR in type II AECs compared to its role in immune cells during influenza infection. We found that deletion of Chrna7 (encoding gene of α7 nAChR) in type II AECs or disruption of vagal circuits reduced lung influenza infection and protected mice from influenza‐induced lung injury. We further unveiled that activation of α7 nAChR enhanced influenza infection through PTP1B‐NEDD4L‐ASK1‐p38MAPK pathway. Mechanistically, activation of α7 nAChR signaling decreased p38MAPK phosphorylation during infection, facilitating the nuclear export of influenza viral ribonucleoproteins and thereby promoting infection. Taken together, our findings reveal a mechanism mediated by vagal‐α7 nAChR signaling that promotes influenza viral infection and exacerbates disease severity. Targeting vagal‐α7 nAChR signaling may offer novel strategies for combating influenza virus infections.