bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The potential ameliorative role of Dimercaptosuccinic acid against the toxicity of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles on Caelatura nilotica clams
Authors: Abdel‑Azeem Hoda H. , Mohamed Azza H. , Osman Gamalat Y. , AbdElhafez AbdElhafez R. , Sheir Sherin K.
Published: July 2024

The prevalent use of nanoparticles has adverse negative effects on biosystems. Subsequently, this study aimed to use Caelatura nilotica to assess the ecotoxicity of TiO2 NPs and how Dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) improves these effects. Two concentrations of TiO2 NPs (25 and 150 µg/L) were used for 28 days. TiO2 NPs bioaccumulation, gonadal weight, gonado‐somatic index, and histopathological alterations of gonads were determined. The tissues’ accumulation of TiO2 NPs was concentration‐time‐dependent: it was 78.5 ± 28.93 μg/g dry weight in the exposed clams to 150 µg/L TiO2 NPs after 4 weeks of exposure. The gonadal weight and gonado‐somatic index significantly decreased of the exposed group to 150 µg/L TiO2 NPs over the experimental period that they ended with values (1.01 ± 0.57 gm, 19.15 ± 7.75%, respectively). There are some histological alterations in the gonads of C. nilotica such as necrosis, deteriorated connective tissue, increased fibrous tissue, a reduced presence of mature sperms and mature ova, and irregular shapes of testicular/ovarian follicles. When using Dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), this led to a reduction in accumulation of TiO2 NPs by the end of the experiment. So, C. nilotica is a promising model to reflect the adverse nano‐toxics. DMSA emerges as a potentially valuable chelating agent that abolishes the negative effects of these nanoparticles.
More sleep for behavioral ecologists
Authors: Rößler Daniela C. , Klein Barrett A.
Published: July 2024

From jellyfish to parrot fish and roundworms to homeotherms, all animals are thought to sleep. Despite its presumed universality, sleep is a poorly understood behavior, varying significantly in its expression across, and even within, animal lineages. There is still no consensus about the origin, architecture, ecology of sleep, or even its defining characters. The field of behavioral ecology has the potential to extend our knowledge of sleep behavior to nontraditional models and in ecologically relevant settings. Here, we highlight current efforts in diversifying the field to generate stronger synergies between historically human‐focused sleep research and behavioral ecology. Our primary aim is for behavioral ecology to enhance sleep research by contributing crucial observations as well as by creating novel comparative and evolutionary frameworks. At the same time, sleep research can enhance behavioral ecology by exposing the relevance of sleep to wakeful behaviors. Nikolaas Tinbergen's four levels of analysis have served as a foundation for comprehensively addressing questions in behavior, and we introduce some Tinbergian approaches to examine the interplay between sleep and wake under ecologically meaningful conditions.
Cycles in 3‐connected claw‐free planar graphs and 4‐connected planar graphs without 4‐cycles
Authors: Lo On‐Hei Solomon
Published: July 2024

The cycle spectrum of a graph is the set of the cycle lengths in . Let be a graph class. For any integer , define to be the least integer such that for any with circumference at least . Denote by , and the classes of 3‐connected planar graphs, 3‐connected cubic planar graphs, 3‐connected claw‐free planar graphs, and 3‐connected claw‐free cubic planar graphs, respectively. The values of and were known for all . In the first part of this article, we prove the claw‐free version of these results by giving the values of and for all . In the second part we study the cycle spectra of 4‐connected planar graphs without 4‐cycles. Bondy conjectured that every 4‐connected planar graph has all cycle lengths from 3 to except possibly one even length. The truth of this conjecture would imply that every 4‐connected planar graph without 4‐cycles has all cycle lengths other than 4. It was already known that . We prove that can be embedded in the plane such that for any has a ‐cycle and all vertices not in lie in the exterior of .
Optimal timing of surgery after neoadjuvant treatment in borderline resectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Jung Hye‐Sol , Kwon Wooil , Yun Won‐Gun , Paik Woo Hyun , Hyub Lee Sang , Ryu Ji Kon , Oh Do‐Youn , Lee Kyoung Bun , Chie Eui Kyu , Jang Jin‐Young
Published: July 2024

Background

Neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) is standard for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC). However, consensus is lacking on the optimal surgical timing for patients with BRPC undergoing NAT. The aim of this study was to investigate the long‐term outcomes of patients undergoing NAT for BRPC and suggest optimal resection timing.

Methods

Prospectively collected data for 282 patients with BRPC between January 2007 and December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. There were 164 patients who underwent NAT followed by surgery, 45 for chemotherapy only, and 73 for upfront surgery. Among them, 150 patients who underwent R0 or R1 resection following NAT were investigated to identify prognostic factors.

Results

Patients receiving NAT followed by surgery showed the best survival (median overall survival [OS]; NAT followed by surgery vs. upfront surgery vs. chemotherapy only; 35 vs. 23 vs. 16 months). In the NAT group, 54 (36.0%) patients received less than 3 months of NAT, 68 (45.3%) received ≥3, <6 months, and 28 (18.7%) received longer than 6 months. Patients receiving ≥3 months of NAT showed an improved OS compared to <3 months (median; not reached vs. 27 months). In the FOLFIRINOX group, patients who received more than eight FOLFIRINOX cycles showed a good prognosis (<6 vs. 6–7 vs. ≥8 cycles; median survival, 26 vs. 41 months vs. not‐reached). However, >12 cycles did not carry a survival benefit compared to 8–11 cycles.

Conclusion

The optimal resection timing following NAT is once a patient undergoes at least 3 months of neoadjuvant chemotherapy or at least eight FOLFIRINOX cycles.
Oral pre‐ and early postnatal cannabis exposure disinhibits ventral tegmental area dopamine neuron activity but does not influence cocaine preference in offspring in mice
Authors: Peterson Colleen S. , Baglot Samantha L. , Sallam Nada A. , Mina Sarah , Hill Matthew N. , Borgland Stephanie L.
Published: July 2024

Cannabis consumption has increased from 1.5% to 2.5% in Canada between 2012 and 2019. Clinical studies have indicated effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on birth weight, substance use, and neurodevelopmental disorders, but are confounded by several difficult to control variables. Animal models allow for examination of the mechanism of cannabis‐induced changes in neurodevelopment and behavior, while controlling dose and timing. Several animal models of prenatal cannabis exposure exist which provide varying levels of construct validity, control of dose, and exposure to maternal stress. Using a voluntary oral consumption model, mouse dams received 5 mg/kg Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) whole cannabis oil in peanut butter daily from gestational day 1 (GD1) to postnatal day 10 (PD10). At GD1, GD18, PD1, PD10, and PD15, maternal plasma was collected; pup brains were collected from GD18 onward. Pup brains had higher levels of THC and cannabidiol at each time point, each of which persisted in maternal plasma and pup brains past the end of treatment (PD15). Male and female adolescent offspring were examined for changes to ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine neuron activity and cocaine‐seeking behavior. Prenatal and early postnatal (GD1–PD10) cannabis‐exposed male, but not female mice had decreased gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABAergic) input, depolarized resting membrane potential, and increased spontaneous firing of VTA dopamine neurons. Cannabis‐exposed offspring showed faster decay of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) currents in both sexes. However, no differences in cocaine‐seeking behavior were noted. These data characterize a voluntary prenatal cannabis exposure model and demonstrates VTA dopamine neuronal activity is disinhibited in offspring.
Drivers of seasonal rainfall variability over the Angolan and Namibian plateaus
Authors: Pereira Carlos A. , Martins João P. , Fink Andreas H. , Pinto Joaquim G. , Ramos Alexandre M.
Published: July 2024

Southern Africa has been strongly affected by ongoing climate change in recent decades. Rainfall variability is modulated by regional patterns of moisture advection and convergence in the lower troposphere. Using reanalysis, ground and satellite‐based rainfall products and observations from 10 weather stations, we perform a synoptic and climatological analysis focussing on atmospheric circulation, moisture transport and their relationship with rainfall anomalies over the Angolan and Namibian Plateau region. Results clearly show that a stronger (weaker) Zambezi low level jet (LLJ) magnitudes are associated with above (below) normal rainfalls over the main Angolan and Namibian plateaus. With lower confidence, a stronger Limpopo LLJ may also lead to enhanced rainfall over Namibia and southeast Angola. The Zambezi LLJ moisture fluxes are moderately controlled by Mozambique Chanel Trough and Angola Low intensities, while the Limpopo LLJ intensities have very low influence from the Mozambique Chanel Trough and Angola Low, respectively. The Angola Low in its tropical phase is associated with deeper moisture convergence and stronger vertical velocities, leading to higher amounts of precipitable water within the air column, thus enhancing precipitation over the region. It is shown that the major moisture source of rainfall, which is advected to via the Zambezi LLJ, is the Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, the Atlantic Ocean plays a minor role. Given the current lack of observations and projected climate change, further research and investments are urgently needed in the region, for example, regarding the expansion of the surface data network.
Characteristics of enteral and oral nutrition support among infants and young children in the pediatric intensive care unit: A descriptive cohort study
Authors: Winderlich Jacinta , Little Bridget , Oberender Felix , Bollard Tessa , Farrell Tamara , Jenkins Samantha , Landorf Emma , McCall Andrea , Menzies Jessica , O'Brien Katie , Rowe Carla , Sim Kirsten , van der Wilk Melanie , Woodgate Jemma , Paul Eldho , Udy Andrew A. , Ridley Emma J.
Published: July 2024

Background

Children who are critically ill are often reliant on enteral and oral nutrition support. However, there is limited evidence to guide “what” to prescribe, and current practice is unknown. The primary objective of this study was to describe enteral nutrition prescription in children ≤2 years of age in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The secondary objectives were to describe oral nutrition support practices and factors associated with the use of increased energy and protein density nutrition support.

Methods

Children ≤2 years of age admitted to participating PICUs over a 2‐week period in June 2021 were enrolled. Data were collected on PICU admission days 1 to 7, 14, 21, and 28 on the mode of nutrition, enteral and oral nutrition support prescription, and dietitian intervention.

Results

Eighty‐four children were included (49 [58%] male; 79 [94%] ≤1 year of age). Enteral nutrition was administered to 79 (94%) children (with expressed breast milk in 45 [57%]). Forty‐three children received formula as enteral nutrition. Increased energy and protein density formulas were provided to 14 (33%) children enterally, with concentrated standard infant formula powder being the most common (5 [12%]). Among children offered oral intake (22; 26%), three (14%) received oral nutrition support. Children who received increased energy and protein density enteral nutrition were more likely to receive dietitian intervention (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

In children ≤2 years of age admitted to PICU, expressed breast milk was provided to half of those requiring enteral nutrition and oral nutrition support prescription was infrequent. One third of children receiving formula via enteral nutrition received an increased energy and protein density feed, and this was strongly associated with dietitian intervention.
Metastatic benign leiomyoma: A case report of an uncommon presentation
Authors: de Almeida Denise Padilha Abs , Malta Marcos Fernando de Brito , Cardoso Wander Mattos , Leite Amanda Lira dos Santos , Barbosa Alex de Albuquerque Lins , Vaz Lucas de Albuquerque Mendonça , Júnior Inácio Pereira Aguiar , de Oliveira Felipe Augusto Porto Farias , Filho Flávio Rodrigues Teixeira , Barros Aldo Vieira
Published: July 2024

Uterine leiomyoma is a benign tumor of myometrial tissue which usually affects women of reproductive age. Its prevalence increases with age and has a peak incidence at the age of 40. Metastasizing leiomyomas are dense connective tissue and smooth myometrial muscle cells tumors located outside the uterus. We present the case report of a 55‐year‐old female referred to investigate pulmonary nodules with the diagnosis of metastasizing leiomyoma.
Electrospun nanofibers‐based thin film microextraction for enrichment of phthalate esters in biodegradable plastics
Authors: Su Ping , Wang Qiqi , Li Mengxi , Tian Xinrui , Song Jiayi , Yang Yi
Published: July 2024

In this work, a novel electrospun nanofiber (PAN/TpBD; 2,4,6‐triformylphloroglucinol [Tp] and benzidine [BD]; polyacrylonitrile [PAN]) was fabricated via a facile electrospinning method and utilized as adsorbent in thin film microextraction (TFME) of phthalate esters (PAEs) (dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, diallyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, and dioctyl phthalate) in biodegradable plastics. The prepared PAN/TpBD combines the strong stability of nanofibers with increased exposure sites for covalent organic frameworks and enhanced interactions with the target, thus improving the enrichment effect on the target. The extraction efficiency of PAN/TpBD reached above 80%. Based on PAN/TpBD, a TFME‐high‐performance liquid chromatography method was established, and the experimental parameters were optimized. Under the optimal extraction conditions, the PAEs of this method varied linearly in the range of 10–10 000 µg/L with low detection limits (0.69–2.72 µg/L). The intra‐day and inter‐day relative standard deviation values of the PAEs were less than 8.04% and 8.73%, respectively. The adsorbent can achieve more than 80% recovery of the five targets after six times reuse. The developed method was successfully applied for the determination of trace PAEs in biodegradable plastics with recoveries ranging from 80.1% to 113.4% and relative standard deviations were less than 9.45%. The as‐synthesized PAN/TpBD adsorbent exhibited great potential in PAE analysis.
Sample preservation methods for nitrous oxide concentration and isotope ratio measurements in aquatic environments
Authors: Frey Claudia , Tang Weiyi , Ward Bess B. , Lehmann Moritz F.
Published: July 2024

The nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O) stable isotope analysis of dissolved nitrous oxide (N2O) can provide important constraints on the sources and cycling of N2O in aquatic environments. The isotopic composition of aqueous N2O, both in field (natural abundance) or experimental (15N‐labeling) samples, however, may be altered by abiotic reactions involving nitrite () or hydroxylamine (NH2OH) and microbial activity during sample storage, if samples are not adequately preserved. Here we tested five different preservatives, mercuric chloride (HgCl2), copper sulfate (CuSO4), zinc chloride (ZnCl2), hydrochloric acid (HCl) mixed with sulfamic acid (SFA), and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), for fixing natural water samples from an estuary and a lake with different concentrations over a range of different storage times for N2O analyses. ZnCl2 and CuSO4 decreased the pH, and led to abiotic N2O production from , shifting the N2O isotopic composition significantly. Removal of with a mixture of SFA and HCl did not always prevent the alteration of the original N and O isotope composition of N2O, confirming the requirement for complete removal, and underscoring the biasing effects of at very low pH, even at trace levels. At low background, HgCl2 preservation led to robust and accurate results. However, in light of its toxicity and bioaccumulation potential in food webs, this fixative should be avoided. The addition of NaOH reduced abiotic side reactions involving , and yielded the most reliable and reproducible results for N2O concentration and isotope ratio measurements across tested settings and storage times.
Ultra‐Low Loss Lithium Niobate Polarizer with Enhanced Anti Bound State in the Continuum
Authors: Liu Weixi , Li Huan , Wen Chengfeng , Zhao Shi , Guo Zehao , Li Hanwen , Song Lijia , Yu Zejie , Liu Liu , Dai Daoxin , Shi Yaocheng
Published: July 2024

Thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) has emerged as a promising platform for photonic integrated circuits (PICs). However, the polarization crosstalk is usually inevitable owing to its birefringence. Polarizers, as key polarization handling devices, are essential to ensure polarization purity in PICs. In this work, a novel ultra‐low loss polarizer is proposed and demonstrated based on the enhanced anti‐bound state in the continuum (anti‐BIC) on TFLN. With meticulously designed waveguide width, constructive interference occurs for the leaky modes, such that transverse magnetic (TM) bound mode can drastically couple into the continuum modes, leading to high propagation loss for TM polarization. Meanwhile transverse electric (TE) polarization remains bound with high optical confinement, hence low propagation loss. Furthermore, it have demonstrated that angled sidewalls can facilitate the mode conversion from bound mode into continuum mode in lithium niobate (LN), which can be an efficient method for controlling the bound mode coupling into the continuum. Ultra‐low loss of <≈0.04 dB and compact footprint of 46 µm are experimentally demonstrated from 1460 to 1600 nm for the fabricated polarizer.
Effect of heat treatment on the microstructure, LBE corrosion resistance, and bonding strength of the FeCrAl‐based coatings
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhou Mingyang , Yue Huifang , Peng Danmin , Qiu Xi , Yang Jijun
Published: July 2024

The bonding strength and LBE corrosion resistance of the Fe15Cr11Al2Si, Fe15Cr11Al0.5Y, and Fe15Cr11Al2Si0.5Y coatings heat‐treated at 500–650°C for 500 h were investigated. The results showed that the as‐deposited Fe15Cr11Al0.5Y coating has the strongest bonding strength with the F/M steel cladding tube compared with the Fe15Cr11Al2Si and Fe15Cr11Al2Si0.5Y coatings. Heat treatment deteriorates the bonding performance of the coatings, and obvious enrichment of Cr and Al elements appeared. The consumed Al element inside the heat‐treated coatings promotes the formation of Fe3O4 on the surface of the coatings after the corrosion test. The Y element can inhibit the enrichment of elements and the formation of Fe3O4. The bonding strength of the heat‐treated coatings can be improved after the corrosion test. The underlying mechanism of the evolution of microstructure and properties of the coatings after heat treatment and corrosion test was discussed.
Archaeological analogues for the lifetime prediction of the canister for spent nuclear fuel in the deep geological repository: Part I. Composition of pore water and corrosion products
Authors: Kolomá Kateřina , Havlová Václava , Pecková Anna , Šachlová Šárka , Kašpar Vlastislav , Tkachenok Diana , Danielisová Alžběta , Malyková Drahomíra , Březinová Helena , Barčáková Ludmila , Mukhtar Saqib , Bureš Richard , Stoulil Jan
Published: July 2024

This work focuses on archaeological analogues as a way of obtaining long‐term data for assessing the lifetime of a spent nuclear fuel canister. An analysis of the environment around the excavated artefacts is presented, followed by geochemical modelling of the likely corrosion products and subsequent comparison with real phases in the corrosion layer estimated by X‐ray diffraction. A total of 16 archaeological sites with fine clay soils and the potential for long‐term flooding were evaluated. Although the soil pore solution contained high levels of silicates, no such phases with iron in the corrosion products were confirmed. Carbonate corrosion products, typical of bentonite environments, were also not observed. Although oxygen access is very limited in the environments of all sites, even low concentrations shifted the equilibrium of corrosion products formed in favour of (hydroxy)oxides.
Synthesis of Dual‐Responsive Amphiphilic Glycomacromolecules: Controlled Release of Glycan Ligands via pH and UV Stimuli
Authors: Jäck Nicholas , Hemming Arne , Hartmann Laura
Published: July 2024

This work presents a versatile strategy for the synthesis of dual stimuli‐responsive amphiphilic glycomacromolecules with tailored release properties. Amphiphilic precision glycomacromolecules (APGs) derived from tailor‐made building blocks using solid phase polymer synthesis form glycofunctionalized micelles, a versatile class of materials with applications in drug delivery, as antiinfection agents as well as simple cell mimetics. In this work, this concept is extended by integrating cleavable building blocks into APGs now allowing stimuli‐responsive release of glycan ligands or destruction of the micelles. This study incorporates a newly designed acid‐labile building block, 4‐(4‐(((((9H‐fluoren‐9‐yl)methoxy)carbonyl)amino)methyl)‐1,3‐dioxolan‐2‐yl)benzoic acid (DBA), suitable also for other types of solid phase or amide chemistry, and an established UV‐cleavable 2‐nitrobenzyl linker (PL). The results demonstrate that both linkers can be cleaved independently and thus allow dual stimuli‐responsive release from the APG micelles. By choosing the APG design e.g., placing the cleavable linkers between glycomacromolecular blocks presenting different types of carbohydrates, they can tune APG and micellar stability as well as the interaction and cluster formation with a carbohydrate‐recognizing lectin. Such dual‐responsive glycofunctionalized micelles have wide potential for use in drug delivery applications or for the development as anti‐adhesion agents in antiviral and antibacterial treatments.
Endothelial dysfunction: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications
Authors: Wang Xia , He Ben
Published: July 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its complications are a leading cause of death worldwide. Endothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of CVD, serving as a pivotal factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular, metabolic, and other related diseases. The regulation of endothelial dysfunction is influenced by various risk factors and intricate signaling pathways, which vary depending on the specific disease context. Despite numerous research efforts aimed at elucidating the mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction, the precise molecular pathways involved remain incompletely understood. This review elucidates recent research findings on the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in endothelial dysfunction, including nitric oxide availability, oxidative stress, and inflammation‐mediated pathways. We also discuss the impact of endothelial dysfunction on various pathological conditions, including atherosclerosis, heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we summarize the traditional and novel potential biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction as well as pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapeutic strategies for endothelial protection and treatment for CVD and related complications. Consequently, this review is to improve understanding of emerging biomarkers and therapeutic approaches aimed at reducing the risk of developing CVD and associated complications, as well as mitigating endothelial dysfunction.
An application of complex networks on predicting the behavior of infectious disease on campus
Authors: Wang Guojin , Yao Wei
Published: July 2024

Networks are widely used in understanding the spread of infectious disease. Universities and colleges are characterized by frequent social gatherings and extensive interpersonal communication, making them ideal applications of complex networks. In this paper, a compound model consisting of a homogeneous (small world) network and a heterogeneous (scale free) network is established, the spreading characteristics of epidemics are analyzed by using the mean‐field (MF) and the heterogeneous mean‐field (HMF) approaches, and the effects of various factors such as the total node number (N), the randomly reconnection probability (p), the initial proportion of infected node (p0), the average degree (k), and the shared nodes (s) are simulated by numerical calculations. The simulation results are in consistent with theoretical predictions, indicating that the randomness effect decreases with increasing k and N and is small when k (k = 8) and N (N = 200) are relatively large; the randomness effect is more significant in the scale free (SF) network than in the small world (SW) network, and the disease spread faster in the SF network; shared nodes can weakly increase the disease spread, but when the shared nodes are involved in an infected and an uninfected network, it can induce the disease outbreak in the uninfected network.
A critical Kirchhoff equation with a logarithmic type perturbation in dimension 4
Authors: Han Yuzhu
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a critical Kirchhoff type elliptic equation involving a logarithmic type perturbation is considered in a bounded domain in
. Three main features of the problem bring essential difficulties when proving the existence of weak solutions. The first one is the nonlocal term which makes the structure of the corresponding energy functional more complicated, the second one is that the problem is critical in the sense that the energy functional lacks compactness, and the third one is the appearance of the logarithmic term which satisfies neither the standard monotonicity condition nor the Ambrosetti–Rabinowitz condition. Moreover, the boundedness of the
sequence is hard to obtain for Kirchhoff problems in dimension 4. By combining a result by Jeanjean (Proc. Roy. Soc. Edinburgh Sect. A, 1999, 129: 787–809) and a recent estimate by Deng et al. (Adv. Nonlinear Stud., 2023, 23: No. 20220049) with the mountain pass lemma and Brézis‐Lieb's lemma, it is proved that either the norm of the sequence of approximation solution goes to infinity or the problem admits a nontrivial weak solution, under appropriate assumptions on the parameters.
Error estimates of unilateral piezoelectric contact problem in a curved and smooth boundary domain
Authors: El Khalfi Hamid , Faiz Zakaria , Baiz Othmane , Benaissa Hicham
Published: July 2024

We study the linear finite element approximation of piezoelectric unilateral contact problem in a curved and smooth boundary domain. The unilateral contact conditions will be weakly imposed by the penalty method. We derive error estimates which depend on the penalty parameter and the mesh size. In fact, under regularity of the solution, we prove some convergence rate results.
Jennifer Duann talks about life as a masters’ degree student in genetic counseling
Authors: May Rachel
Published: July 2024

When we spoke, Jennifer Duann was in the midst of a move from Bloomington, Indiana, to Cincinnati, Ohio, two and a half hours away, so that she could complete clinicals for her masters’ degree in genetic counseling. We chatted by phone about her life as a student and balancing parenthood with coursework. Our conversation has been edited for clarity and length.
FERPA fail: What you need to do when the inevitable happens
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: July 2024

COLUMBUS, OHIO — It wasn’t a surprise that an AACRAO session about FERPA would draw a double room, or that the space would quickly fill up during this year's conference. But what might qualify as a surprise was the angle of the speaker, Dr. Kimberly Barber, University Registrar at Florida State University.
Rare tumors II: Adrenocortical tumors, neuroendocrine tumors of the appendix, pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, pancreatoblastoma and solid pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas
Authors: Mansfield Sara A. , De Corti Federica , Aldrink Jennifer H. , Pire Aurore , Crocoli Alessandro , Dall'Igna Patrizia , Matthyssens Lucas , Virgone Calogero
Published: July 2024

Very rare tumors are usually divided into two groups: One includes tumors that are rare among both children and adults; the other one encompasses tumors that frequently occur in adults but are rarely observed in children. In this review, we focus on adrenocortical tumors, neuroendocrine tumors of the appendix, pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, pancreatoblastoma and solid pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas, with special attention to the role of surgery as main curative intervention or as part of the multimodal treatment.
Comprehensive metabolome characterization of leaves, internodes, and aerial roots of Vanilla planifolia by untargeted LC–MS and GC × GC–MS
Authors: Beer Falco , Weinert Christoph H. , Wellmann Johannes , Hillebrand Silke , Ley Jakob Peter , Soukup Sebastian T. , Kulling Sabine E.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Untargeted metabolomics is a powerful tool that provides strategies for gaining a systematic understanding of quantitative changes in the levels of metabolites, especially when combining different metabolomic platforms. Vanilla is one of the world's most popular flavors originating from cured pods of the orchid Vanilla planifolia. However, only a few studies have investigated the metabolome of V. planifolia, and no LC–MS or GC–MS metabolomics studies with respect to leaves have been performed.

Objective

The aim of the study was to comprehensively characterize the metabolome of different organs (leaves, internodes, and aerial roots) of V. planifolia.

Material and Methods

Characterization of the metabolome was achieved using two complementary platforms (GC × GC–MS, LC‐QToF‐MS), and metabolite identification was based on a comparison with in‐house databases or curated external spectral libraries.

Results

In total, 127 metabolites could be identified with high certainty (confidence level 1 or 2) including sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, organic acids, and amines/amides but also secondary metabolites such as vanillin‐related metabolites, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Ninty‐eight metabolites showed significantly different intensities between the plant organs. Most strikingly, aglycons of flavonoids and vanillin‐related metabolites were elevated in aerial roots, whereas its O‐glycoside forms tended to be higher in leaves and/or internodes. This suggests that the more bioactive aglycones may accumulate where preferably needed, e.g. for defense against pathogens.

Conclusion

The results derived from the study substantially expand the knowledge regarding the vanilla metabolome forming a valuable basis for more targeted investigations in future studies, e.g. towards an optimization of vanilla plant cultivation.
Real‐world use of emicizumab in Chinese children with hemophilia A: Retrospective data from a comprehensive care center
Authors: Mao Qianqian , Chen Zhenping , Liu Guoqing , Li Gang , Zhen Yingzi , Cheng Xiaoling , Li Zekun , Yao Wanru , Ai Di , Li Zhengping , Wang Nan , Poon Man‐Chiu , Wu Runhui
Published: July 2024

Importance

Emicizumab (EMI) is efficacious and safe for hemophilia A (HA) prophylaxis. However, its high cost poses a challenge in China.

Objective

To explore the possibility of using reduced‐dosage EMI in Chinese HA children.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study for HA children in our Comprehensive Care Center. Data were collected pre‐ and post‐EMI treatment to evaluate bleeding rates. Laboratory analyses included factor VIII (FVIII)‐like activity and EMI concentration measurements.

Results

Thirty‐four HA children receiving EMI prophylaxis for a median (range) 24.5 (2.5–47.9) months by June 2023. Of these, 25 (73.5%) were under 3 years of age, 26 (76.5%) had severe hemophilia and 12 (35.3%) were minimally treated or previously untreated patients. Thirty‐one (91.2%) of the 34 patients received reduced‐dosage EMI for economic reasons. EMI concentration and FVIII‐like activity measured showed a strong correlation. Overall, while on EMI, their annual treated bleeding rate (ATBR) and annual bleeding rate (ABR) decreased significantly (2–0) while their zero‐bleeding rate (ZBR) increased significantly (11.5%–65.4%). After 6 months of EMI, there was no significant difference in ATBR and ABR among various maintenance dosages. However, ZBR was significantly lower in dosages under 4 mg/kg (P = 0.0156). Receiver operator characteristic curves suggested the following cutoff values for zero bleeding: EMI 4‐weekly maintenance dosage 3.8 mg/kg, EMI concentration 48.1 μg/mL, and FVIII‐like activity 15.4 IU/dL.

Interpretation

We showed EMI effectively prevented bleeding even at reduced dosages. However, the bleeding risk may be higher with EMI 4‐weekly maintenance dosage <3.8 mg/kg, EMI concentration <48.1 μg/mL, and FVIII‐like activity <15.4 IU/dL for zero bleeding. It is important that dosage reduction be done rationally. Dosage tailoring is possible.
3D printing of functionally graded nanocomposites: An investigation of microstructural, rheological, and mechanical behavior
Authors: Kumar Sumodh , Rajath S. , Shivakumar N. D. , Ramesh M. R. , Doddamani Mrityunjay
Published: July 2024

Manufacturing functionally graded material through 3D printing is challenging owing to the deposition of different materials with different thermal properties in each layer, leading to a higher thermal gradient between deposited and depositing layers, resulting in improper bonding between them and, hence, reduced mechanical properties. This study focuses on 3D printing of functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/high‐density polyethylene (HDPE)‐based lightweight functionally graded nanocomposites (FGNCs) and their investigation for microstructural, rheological, physical, and mechanical properties. Functionalized MWCNTs (0.5% → 5%) are initially compounded with widely utilized HDPE to develop nanocomposites (H0.5→H5 pellets) for extruding filaments for 3D printing. 3D‐printed FGNC samples are investigated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), rheology, density, tensile, and flexural tests. SEM and rheology confirm the homogeneous dispersion of the filler in HDPE and the processing parameters suitability in blending, extrusion, and 3D printing. Complex viscosity (η*), loss modulus (E″), and storage modulus (E′) of FGNCs increase, while the damping decreases with the MWCNTs rise in the graded layers. Density results revealed the highest weight saving potential (~12%) of FGNC‐2 (H1–H3–H5), showing great weight saving potential. Tensile and flexural properties rise when the MWCNTs content rises in the graded layer. The FGNC‐2 showed the highest tensile strength and moduli, 37.12% and 90.41% higher than HDPE. Flexural strength and moduli are also found to be the highest for FGNC‐2, 28.57%, and 26.83% higher than HDPE. The highest specific moduli and strength are found for FGNC‐2, 46.16% and 44.14% higher than HDPE, respectively. Experimental findings are found to be strongly in agreement with numerical findings. 3D‐printed FGNC‐2 demonstrated the best flexural and tensile characteristics with the lowest weight and hence can be used to make practical parts and structures that need variable stiffness.

Highlights

FGNCs functionally graded n anocomposites are concurrently 3D printed.

FGNC‐2 exhibited the highest weight saving potential of 12%.

FGNC‐2 showed 90.41% and 37.12% enhanced tensile modulus and strength.

FGNC‐2 displayed 28.57% and 26.83% improved flexural strength and modulus.

FGNCs exhibited better mechanical performance than the homogeneous NCs.
The effect of dexamethasone addition to gentamicin polymeric films of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose/chitosan and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose/polyvinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Jaber Saif Aldeen , Saadh Mohamed , Obeid Mohammad A.
Published: July 2024

Many polymeric film formulas containing antibiotics failed in preventing microbial infections due to microbial resistance. One of the main reasons for microbial resistance is the formation of biofilm layers which prevent the drug from reaching the active site. This study aims to evaluate the effect of dexamethasone addition to polymeric film formula containing gentamicin. The polymeric formula containing both dexamethasone and gentamicin were characterized in terms of film's diameters, content uniformity, moisture content, matrix‐drugs association, and drug release. Antibiofilm and antimicrobial activity were used to evaluate polymeric formula containing drug. The addition of dexamethasone to the polymeric formula revealed that most of dexamethasone released and diffused in the first 300 min, while gentamicin release and diffusion had a slower rate like the release of gentamicin from formulations without dexamethasone. The addition of dexamethasone resulted in improved antibiofilm and antibacterial activity with the lowest antibiofilm activity >96% and antibacterial activity >87%. Therefore, dexamethasone addition to polymeric formula containing gentamicin improved the biological activity without any effects on the film characteristics.

Highlights

Dexamethasone addition to polymeric formula containing gentamicin significantly improved the biological activity.

Most of dexamethasone released and diffused in the first 300 min.

The addition of dexamethasone resulted in the lowest antibiofilm activity of gentamicin of >96% and antibacterial activity >87%.
Disruption of the LRRK2‐FADD Interface Using Constrained Peptides
Authors: Alexander Krista K. , Kentros Michalis , Helton Leah G. , Tantis‐Tapeinos Dimitris , LeClair Timothy J. , Royer Fredejah T. , Grimsey Neil J. , Polissidis Alexia V. , Kennedy Eileen J. , Rideout Hardy J.
Published: July 2024

Mutations in the gene encoding leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are the most common cause of familial Parkinson's disease (PD). The reduced penetrance of mutations in the LRRK2 gene has also led to variants appearing in seemingly sporadic forms of the disease. Kinase inhibition effectively blocks neuronal death and small‐molecule Class I inhibitors are proceeding through clinical trials in multiple PD cohorts. The toxic interaction between mutant LRRK2 and FADD lies downstream of its kinase activity and is required to induce neuronal death. The present study aimed to determine whether the FADD‐LRRK2 interface could be disrupted and what effects this may have on neuroprotection. A series of constrained peptides were designed to mimic the alpha‐helical protein interaction interface between the LRRK2 armadillo region and the death domain of FADD. These peptide‐based protein–protein interaction inhibitors significantly reduced this interaction and blocked apoptotic death of primary neurons expressing G2019S‐LRRK2. This work has identified novel constrained peptides that disrupt the LRRK2‐FADD interface and downregulate mutant LRRK2‐induced neuronal death in an allosteric manner, thereby providing a potential alternative therapeutic approach for PD.
New piperidinium surfactants with carbamate fragments as effective adjuvants in insecticide compositions based on imidacloprid
Authors: Kushnazarova Rushana A. , Mirgorodskaya Alla B. , Vasilieva Elmira A. , Lenina Oksana A. , Petrov Konstantin A. , Zakharova Lucia Ya.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Surfactants, particularly non‐ionic ones, are widely used as adjuvants in pesticide formulations due to their ability to maintain pesticide effectiveness without changing solution properties, such as pH. While non‐ionic surfactants are generally low‐toxic, stable, and excellent dispersants with high solubilization capabilities, they may be less effective than cationic surfactants, which offer superior surface activity, transport properties, and antimicrobial action. This study investigates the efficacy of new piperidinium surfactants with carbamate fragments as adjuvants in insecticide formulations containing imidacloprid. The efficacy of these formulations is being assessed against greenhouse whitefly, a pest known to harm cultivated and ornamental flowering plants.

RESULTS

The aggregation behavior of piperidinium surfactants containing carbamate fragments was investigated, and their wetting effect was evaluated. Synthesized surfactants have lower CMC values compared to their methylpiperidinium analogue. The effect of piperidinium surfactants on the insecticide concentration on the surface and inside tomato leaves was assessed using spectrophotometric methods. It was found that the introduction of piperidinium surfactants with carbamate fragment at a concentration of 0.1% wt. allows for decrease in lethal concentration of imidacloprid up to 10 times, thereby testifying the marked increase in the effectiveness of imidacloprid against the greenhouse whitefly insect pest (Trialeurodes vaporariorum). It was shown that the main factors responsible for the enhanced efficacy of the insecticide were the ability of the surfactant to increase the concentration of imidacloprid on the leaf surfaces and improve their penetration into the plant.

CONCLUSION

The presented work employed a comprehensive approach, which significantly increases the generalizability of the results obtained and provides the ability to predict the effect and target selection of adjuvants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Metal‐Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition Grown Low‐Temperature Aluminum Nitride Gate Dielectric for Gallium Nitride on Si High Electron Mobility Transistor
Authors: Venugopalarao Anirudh , Kanta Shantveer , Chandrasekar Hareesh , Gowrisankar Aniruddhan , Rengarajan Muralidharan R. , Nath Digbijoy N. , Raghavan Srinivasan
Published: July 2024

Gate dielectrics for gallium nitride (GaN) high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) technology have always been challenging because of the nonideal semiconductor–dielectric interface, which leads to electronic traps. Plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition and atomic layer deposition are standard techniques, but they require surface treatment and post‐annealing to control these traps. This article explores metal organic chemical vapor deposition‐grown in situ aluminum nitride (AlN) as a gate dielectric. The interface is expected to be pristine as there is no change in the chamber environment. A thin (10 nm) AlN layer is deposited at a low temperature to minimize strain and prevent the formation of an unwanted conductive channel within the device. The electrical and structural properties of this AlN‐capped HEMT are compared to a standard GaN‐capped HEMT, including temperature‐dependent studies. The results show that the AlN‐capped HEMT retains a higher charge in the channel while having an order of magnitude lower gate leakage than the GaN‐capped sample. Furthermore, the AlN‐capped HEMT performs similarly to the GaN‐capped HEMT in terms of temperature‐dependent leakage, dynamic on‐resistance, and temperature coefficient of resistance.
Potency analysis of twelve cannabinoids in industrial hemp via ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Cai Youxi , Zhang Ruiting , Zhang Hao , Li Xiaolei
Published: July 2024

Rationale

With an increasing appreciation for the unique pharmacological properties associated with distinct, individual cannabinoids of Cannabis sativa, there is demand for accurate and reliable quantification for a growing number of them. In this study, we developed rapid, sensitive, selective, accurate, and validated liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry for the quantification of cannabinoids.

Methods

Crushed industrial hemp flower and leaf sample was extracted by 95% methanol aqueous, sonicated for 30 min. UPLC‐MS/MS analysis using Waters Acquity BEH‐C18 column and electrospray ionization(ESI) mass spectrometry detector.

Results

The method was validated to demonstrate its reproducibility and precision, linearity, recovery investigation, and investigation of matrix effect. The concentration–response relationship for all analyzed cannabinoids were linear with R2 values >0.99, with intra‐ and inter‐day precision and relative errors below 12%. The recovery and matrix effect were measured as 66.1%–104.1% and 70.42%–110.75%.

Conclusions

This study established a UHPLC‐MS/MS method for the simultaneous and rapid quantitative determination of twelve cannabinoids in industrial hemp flowers and leaves in 11 min. The method was used to analyze 43 industrial hemp flower and leaf samples, with the data being statistically analyzed. Based on the statistical analysis of the cannabinoids, hemp from different regions and different varieties were well distinguished by the PLS‐DA model, with the main contributing substances being cannabidiol, Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol, and Δ8‐tetrahydrocannabinol.
The theoretical and evidence‐based components of whole school approaches: An international scoping review
Authors: Cavanagh Matthew , McDowell Claire , Connor Bones Una O. , Taggart Laurence , Mulhall Peter
Published: July 2024

The whole school approach (WSA) is often used in schools as a means of transformative change across many areas and involves many stakeholders. Many of the approaches used in WSAs are underpinned by psychological, social and educational theories. Although many of these approaches focus on vulnerable groups such as bullied and excluded children, relatively few of these approaches aim to support children with special educational needs (SEN). This specific vulnerable group includes children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, autism spectrum disorders, among many others. A rigorous, theory‐driven approach to supporting such children in schools is essential in ensuring positive academic and developmental outcomes for such students. Therefore, a scoping review was undertaken to explore the current literature on the use of WSAs, their theoretical and evidence‐based components as well as key areas in which they are utilised and how they are evaluated. After searching in seven (EBSCOhost, ERIC, British Education Index, Open Dissertation Search, PsycINFO, Medline Ovid, Child Development and Adolescent Studies) databases and completing a rigorous screening process, 21 papers were included in the review. Recommendations for further research involving the development and implementation of a WSA to support children with special educational needs are made, with emphasis placed on the importance of a clear theoretical underpinning, interdependent components, clear outcome measures and co‐production.