bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of landscape, resource use, and body size on genetic structure in bee populations
Authors: Hernandez Melissa , Suni Sevan
Published: May 2024

Quantifying genetic structure and levels of genetic variation are fundamentally important to predicting the ability of populations to persist in human‐altered landscapes and adapt to future environmental changes. Genetic structure reflects the dispersal of individuals over generations, which can be mediated by species‐level traits or environmental factors. Dispersal distances are commonly positively associated with body size and negatively associated with the amount of degraded habitat between sites, motivating the investigation of these potential drivers of dispersal concomitantly. We quantified genetic structure and genetic variability within populations of seven bee species from the genus Euglossa across fragmented landscapes. We genotyped bees at SNP loci and tested the following predictions: (1) deforested areas restrict gene flow; (2) larger species have lower genetic structure; (3) species with greater resource specialization have higher genetic structure; and (4) sites surrounded by more intact habitat have higher genetic diversity. Contrasting with previous work on bees, we found no associations between body size and genetic structure. Genetic structure was higher for species with greater resource specialization, and the amount of intact habitat between or surrounding sites was positively associated with parameters reflecting gene flow and genetic diversity. These results challenge the dominant paradigm that individuals of larger species disperse farther, and they suggest that landscape and resource requirements are important factors mediating dispersal.
Stabilized Nickel‐Rich‐Layered Oxide Electrodes for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ahaliabadeh Zahra , Miikkulainen Ville , Mäntymäki Miia , Colalongo Mattia , Mousavihashemi Seyedabolfazl , Yao Lide , Jiang Hua , Lahtinen Jouko , Kankaanpää Timo , Kallio Tanja
Published: May 2024

Next‐generation Li‐ion batteries are expected to exhibit superior energy and power density, along with extended cycle life. Ni‐rich high‐capacity layered nickel manganese cobalt oxide electrode materials (NMC) hold promise in achieving these objectives, despite facing challenges such as capacity fade due to various degradation modes. Crack formation within NMC‐based cathode secondary particles, leading to parasitic reactions and the formation of inactive crystal structures, is a critical degradation mechanism. Mechanical and chemical degradation further deteriorate capacity and lifetime. To mitigate these issues, an artificial cathode electrolyte interphase can be applied to the active material before battery cycling. While atomic layer deposition (ALD) has been extensively explored for active material coatings, molecular layer deposition (MLD) offers a complementary approach. When combined with ALD, MLD enables the deposition of flexible hybrid coatings that can accommodate electrode material volume changes during battery operation. This study focuses on depositing ‐titanium terephthalate thin films on a electrode via ALD‐MLD. The electrochemical evaluation demonstrates favorable lithium‐ion kinetics and reduced electrolyte decomposition. Overall, the films deposited through ALD‐MLD exhibit promising features as flexible and protective coatings for high‐energy lithium‐ion battery electrodes, offering potential contributions to the enhancement of advanced battery technologies and supporting the growth of the EV and stationary battery industries.
Impact of tafamidis on myocardial function and CMR tissue characteristics in transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy
Authors: Dobner Stephan , Bernhard Benedikt , Ninck Lorenz , Wieser Monika , Bakula Adam , Wahl Andreas , Köchli Valentin , Spano Giancarlo , Boscolo Berto Martina , Elchinova Elena , Safarkhanlo Yasaman , Stortecky Stefan , Schütze Jonathan , Shiri Isaac , Hunziker Lukas , Gräni Christoph
Published: May 2024

Aims

Tafamidis improves clinical outcomes in transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR‐CM), yet how tafamidis affects cardiac structure and function remains poorly described. This study prospectively analysed the effect of tafamidis on 12‐month longitudinal changes in cardiac structure and function by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) compared with the natural course of disease in an untreated historic control cohort.

Methods and results

ATTR‐CM patients underwent CMR at tafamidis initiation and at 12 months. Untreated patients with serial CMRs served as reference to compare biventricular function, global longitudinal strain (GLS), LV mass and extracellular volume fraction (ECV). Thirty‐six tafamidis‐treated (n = 35; 97.1% male) and 15 untreated patients (n = 14; 93.3% male) with a mean age of 78.3 ± 6.5 and 76.9 ± 6.5, respectively, and comparable baseline characteristics were included. Tafamidis was associated with preserving biventricular function (LVEF (%): 50.5 ± 12 to 50.7 ± 11.5, P = 0.87; RVEF (%): 48.2 ± 10.4 to 48.2 ± 9.4, P = 0.99) and LV‐GLS (−9.6 ± 3.2 to −9.9 ± 2.4%; P = 0.595) at 12 months, while a significantly reduced RV‐function (50.8 ± 7.3 to 44.2 ± 11.6%, P = 0.028; P (change over time between groups) = 0.032) and numerically worsening LVGLS (−10.9 ± 3.3 to −9.1 ± 2.9%, P = 0.097; P (change over time between groups) = 0.048) was observed without treatment. LV mass significantly declined with tafamidis (184.7 ± 47.7 to 176.5 ± 44.3 g; P = 0.011), yet remained unchanged in untreated patients (163.8 ± 47.5 to 171.2 ± 39.7 g P = 0.356, P (change over time between groups) = 0.027). Irrespective of tafamidis, ECV and native T1‐mapping did not change significantly from baseline to 12‐month follow‐up (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with untreated ATTR‐CM patients, initiation of tafamidis preserved CMR‐measured biventricular function and reduced LV mass at 12 months. ECV and native T1‐mapping did not change significantly comparable to baseline in both groups.
Towards the Stable Binding of Mercury: Synthesis and Functionalization of Dibenzyldiazabicyclononane Scaffolds
Authors: Weber Toni , Krönke Tobias , Köckerling Martin , Walther Martin , Pietzsch Hans‐Jürgen , Kopka Klaus , Mamat Constantin
Published: May 2024

A universally applicable synthesis route for the preparation of functionalized diazabicyclononane compounds was elaborated starting from a readily available 1,5‐diphenyl‐3,7‐diazabicyclo[3.3.1] nonan‐9‐ol by alkylation of both secondary amines with modified benzyl residues containing a bromo, trimethylstannyl, trimethylsilyl, and pinacolboranyl residue. High yields (65–88 %) were achieved, supporting the intended purpose of these compounds: efficient mercuration reactions to stably bind Hg2+. Finally, the C‐9 position of two functionalized diazabicyclononanes was further modified by introducing an azide functionality. This enables the conjugation to biomolecules of interest via click chemistry combined with a tracking by the introduced mercury isotopes.
Photoinduced Remote Selective C(sp3)−H Alkylation Mediated by Cesium Formate
Authors: Simhadri Vijay Kumar , Sur Rupam , Yatham Veera Reddy
Published: May 2024

Herein, we developed a photoinduced remote selective C(sp3)−H alkylation of protected amines in the presence of cesium formate. The protected amines were synthesized from commercially available inexpensive 2‐iodo benzoyl chloride. Under mild reaction conditions, the in situ generated aryl radical is converted to α‐amidoalkyl radical via [1,5]‐HAT process, which combines with different Michael acceptors and affords corresponding alkylation products in good yields. Preliminary mechanistic studies revealed that formate anion acts as a source of carbon dioxide radical anion (CO2⋅−) and hydrogen atom donor was directly confirmed by isotope‐labeling studies.
Resistance exercise training to improve post‐operative rehabilitation in knee arthroplasty patients: A narrative review
Authors: Monsegue Alejandra P. , Emans Pieter , van Loon Luc J. C. , Verdijk Lex B.
Published: May 2024

Knee osteoarthritis is associated with deficits in muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical functioning. These muscle‐related deficits are acutely exacerbated following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and persist long after surgery, despite the application of standardized rehabilitation programs that include physical/functional training. Resistance exercise training (RET) has been shown to be a highly effective strategy to improve muscle‐related outcomes in healthy as well as clinical populations. However, the use of RET in traditional rehabilitation programs after TKA is limited. In this narrative review, we provide an updated view on whether adding RET to the standard rehabilitation (SR) in the recovery period (up to 1 year) after TKA leads to greater improvements in muscle‐related outcomes when compared to SR alone. Overall, research findings clearly indicate that both muscle strength and muscle mass can be improved to a greater extent with RET‐based rehabilitation compared to SR. Additionally, measures of physical functioning that rely on quadriceps strength and balance (e.g., stair climbing, chair standing, etc.) also appear to benefit more from a RET‐based program compared to SR, especially in patients with low levels of physical functioning. Importantly though, for RET to be optimally effective, it should be performed at 70%–80% of the one‐repetition maximum, with 3–4 sets per exercise, with a minimum of 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Based upon this narrative review, we recommend that such high‐intensity progressive RET should be incorporated into standard programs during rehabilitation after TKA.
Dielectrophoresis: Measurement technologies and auxiliary sensing applications
Authors: Hu Sheng , Ji Junyou , Chen Xiaoming , Tong Ruijie
Published: May 2024

Dielectrophoresis (DEP), which arises from the interaction between dielectric particles and an aqueous solution in a nonuniform electric field, contributes to the manipulation of nano and microparticles in many fields, including colloid physics, analytical chemistry, molecular biology, clinical medicine, and pharmaceutics. The measurement of the DEP force could provide a more complete solution for verifying current classical DEP theories. This review reports various imaging, fluidic, optical, and mechanical approaches for measuring the DEP forces at different amplitudes and frequencies. The integration of DEP technology into sensors enables fast response, high sensitivity, precise discrimination, and label‐free detection of proteins, bacteria, colloidal particles, and cells. Therefore, this review provides an in‐depth overview of DEP‐based fabrication and measurements. Depending on the measurement requirements, DEP manipulation can be classified into assistance and integration approaches to improve sensor performance. To this end, an overview is dedicated to developing the concept of trapping‐on‐sensing, improving its structure and performance, and realizing fully DEP‐assisted lab‐on‐a‐chip systems.
Exploring the multifarious blend ratios of waste fried edible oil biodiesel/diesel/low carbon methanol in an automotive engine: An approach towards fuel characterization, experimental, and multicriteria decision making method
Authors: Ananda Murugan M. , Nataraj G.
Published: May 2024

A low‐cost, high‐performance alternative fuel to traditional fossil fuels is required due to rising energy demand, fossil fuel depletion, and rising prices. In this case, one of the green fuels could be synthesized using transesterification from waste‐fried edible oil (WFEO). The current study deals with neat diesel (D100) and waste‐fried edible oil biodiesel (B100) as the baseline fuels. By volume, a binary blend of 50% diesel and 50% WFEO biodiesel was prepared. The biodiesel/methanol/diesel mixture was considered a ternary blend under two different ternary ratios, such as B40M10D50 and B30M20D50, respectively. The fuel characterization and the rheological study were performed for all the fuel blends as per the ASTM standards. According to engine experimental results, the B30M20D50 blend has 25.42% higher brake thermal efficiency (BTE) than B100 but 3.4% lower than D100 at full load due to the higher methanol percentage. When compared with D100, adding 20% methanol to the ternary blend reduced brake‐specific fuel consumption (BSFC) by 33.34%. Both ternary blends increased NOx emissions by 27.38% and 22.97% compared to D100 but decreased them by 14.23% and 18.68% compared to B100. Both ternary blends produced 0.4 and 0.36 kg/kWh at lower loads, while the D100 and B100 produced 0.46 and 0.42 kg/kWh. Finally, the entropy‐weighted technique for order preference by similarity to the ideal solution (TOPSIS) multi‐criteria decision‐making method was used to determine the best blend for engine performance and emissions. The entropy‐weighted TOPSIS technique likewise found that a B30M20D50 ternary blend with 75% loading had the lowest emissions and best performance.
Spring erosional processes and small sapping valleys in southwestern lower Michigan, USA
Authors: Colgan Patrick M. , Larson Eleanore A. , Riemersma Peter E. , Szydlowski Hanna V. , Baker Tyler
Published: May 2024

Tributary valleys along the Pigeon River in southwestern Michigan USA possess many previously defined criteria for sapping valleys. Direct observations of seasonal variations in groundwater levels, hydraulic gradients and water temperatures confirm that perennial springs and their streams are present in these small valleys. Estimated spring‐fed stream discharges are low and variable, but continuous. Direct observations, grain‐size distributions and bedload transport estimates indicate that significant transport of fine to medium sand occurs in all seasons.

We present a process‐form model for small‐scale sapping processes. Stream terraces and paleo‐meander scarps are being modified by sapping, and elongated valleys are likely being lengthened headward by groundwater sapping. Sapping processes have been occurring for at least the past ~4,500 years after Pigeon River adjusted to a fall in base level from the Nipissing high stand to the modern level of Lake Michigan. Sapping processes are currently producing a variety of small‐scale landforms dependent on four main factors: 1) hydraulic gradients and spring discharges, 2) available grain size of material being eroded, 3) transport rate of sand bedload by spring‐fed streams and finally 4) time available for groundwater sapping process to occur.
Constitutional and acquired genetic variants in ARID5B in pediatric B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Ragnarsson Charlotte , Yang Minjun , Moura‐Castro Larissa Helena , Aydın Efe , Gunnarsson Rebeqa , Olsson‐Arvidsson Linda , Lilljebjörn Henrik , Fioretos Thoas , Duployez Nicolas , Zaliova Marketa , Zuna Jan , Castor Anders , Johansson Bertil , Paulsson Kajsa
Published: May 2024

Constitutional polymorphisms in ARID5B are associated with an increased risk of developing high hyperdiploid (HeH; 51–67 chromosomes) pediatric B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP ALL). Here, we investigated constitutional and somatic ARID5B variants in 1335 BCP ALL cases from five different cohorts, with a particular focus on HeH cases. In 353 HeH ALL that were heterozygous for risk alleles and trisomic for chromosome 10, where ARID5B is located, a significantly higher proportion of risk allele duplication was seen for the SNPs rs7090445 (p = 0.009), rs7089424 (p = 0.005), rs7073837 (p = 0.03), and rs10740055 (p = 0.04). Somatic ARID5B deletions were seen in 16/1335 cases (1.2%), being more common in HeH than in other genetic subtypes (2.2% vs. 0.4%; p = 0.002). The expression of ARID5B in HeH cases with genomic deletions was reduced, consistent with a functional role in leukemogenesis. Whole‐genome sequencing and RNA‐sequencing in HeH revealed additional somatic events involving ARID5B, resulting in a total frequency of 3.6% of HeH cases displaying a somatic ARID5B aberration. Overall, our results show that both constitutional and somatic events in ARID5B are involved in the leukemogenesis of pediatric BCP ALL, particularly in the HeH subtype.
Cholera rages in Africa and the Middle East: A narrative review on challenges and solutions
Authors: Ahmed Abdulrahman K. , Sijercic Victor Coll , Akhtar Mahad S. , Elbayomy Ahmed , Marouf Mohamed A. , Zeleke Mahlet S. , Sayad Reem , Abdelshafi Abdelrahman , Laird Nicholas J. , El‐Mokhtar Mohamed A. , Ruthig Gregory R. , Hetta Helal F.
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim

Cholera is a life‐threatening infectious disease that is still one of the most common acute watery diarrheal diseases in the world today. Acute diarrhea and severe dehydration brought on by cholera can cause hypovolemic shock, which can be fatal in minutes. Without competent clinical therapy, the rate of case fatality surpasses 50%. The purpose of this review was to highlight cholera challenges in Africa and the Middle East and explain the reasons for why this region is currently a fertile environment for cholera. We investigated cholera serology, epidemiology, and the geographical distribution of cholera in Africa and the Middle East in 2022 and 2023. We reviewed detection methods, such as rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), and treatments, such as antibiotics and phage therapy. Finally, this review explored oral cholera vaccines (OCVs), and the vaccine shortage crisis.

Methods

We carried out a systematic search in multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, MEDLINE, and Embase, for studies on cholera using the following keywords: ((Cholera) OR (Vibrio cholera) and (Coronavirus) OR (COVID‐19) OR (SARS‐CoV2) OR (The Middle East) OR (Africa)).

Results and Conclusions

Cholera outbreaks have increased dramatically, mainly in Africa and many Middle Eastern countries. The COVID‐19 pandemic has reduced the attention devoted to cholera and disrupted diagnosis and treatment services, as well as vaccination initiatives. Most of the cholera cases in Africa and the Middle East were reported in Malawi and Syria, respectively, in 2022. RDTs are effective in the early detection of cholera epidemics, especially with limited advanced resources, which is the case in much of Africa. By offering both direct and indirect protection, expanding the use of OCV will significantly reduce the burden of current cholera outbreaks in Africa and the Middle East.
Evaluation of the implementation of the objective structured clinical examination in health sciences education from a low‐income context in Tunisia: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ben Amor Asma , Farhat Hassan , Alinier Guillaume , Ounallah Amina , Bouallegue Olfa
Published: May 2024

Background

Objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is well‐established and designed to evaluate students' clinical competence and practical skills in a standardized and objective manner. While OSCEs are widespread in higher‐income countries, their implementation in low‐resource settings presents unique challenges that warrant further investigation.

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the perception of the health sciences students and their educators regarding deploying OSCEs within the School of Health Sciences and Techniques of Sousse (SHSTS) in Tunisia and their efficacity in healthcare education compared to traditional practical examination methods.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in June 2022, focusing on final‐year Health Sciences students at the SHSTS in Tunisia. The study participants were students and their educators involved in the OSCEs from June 6th to June 11th, 2022. Anonymous paper‐based 5‐point Likert scale satisfaction surveys were distributed to the students and their educators, with a separate set of questions for each. Spearman, Mann–Whitney U and Krusakll–Wallis tests were utilized to test the differences in satisfaction with the OSCEs among the students and educators. The Wilcoxon Rank test was utilized to examine the differences in students' assessment scores in the OSCEs and the traditional practical examination methods.

Results

The satisfaction scores were high among health sciences educators and above average for students, with means of 3.82 ± 1.29 and 3.15 ± 0.56, respectively. The bivariate and multivariate analyzes indicated a significant difference in the satisfaction between the students' specialities. Further, a significant difference in their assessment scores distribution in the practical examinations and OSCEs was also demonstrated, with better performance in the OSCEs.

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence of the relatively high level of satisfaction with the OSCEs and better performance compared to the traditional practical examinations. These findings advocate for the efficacy of OSCEs in low‐income countries and the need to sustain them.
Gas emissivities and absorptivities for H2O–CO2–CO mixtures
Authors: Camaraza‐Medina Yanan
Published: May 2024

In this work, an approximate solution is given to compute the gas emissivities and absorptivities for H2O–CO2–CO mixtures. The proposed model is valid for temperatures from 300 to 2700 K and pressure path‐length from 0.06 to 40 atm m. In the calculation of the analytical solution (AS), the nonlinear methods of Galerkin and Ritz were implemented based on the residual solution of the differential roots of the Finite Element Method. For each point value using the AS, the spectral absorptivity and emissivity were determined, while for the gas mixture the emissivity and absorptivity were computed using the Hottel Graphical Method (HGM) and the proposed method. In the emissivity calculations, the HGM shows less adjustment, with values of ±20% and ±15% for 79.1% and 56.2% of the available analytical data, while the proposed model correlates adequately with the available data, showing an average deviation of ±15% and ±10% for 91.4% and 76.2% of the available data. In the absorptivity estimations, the HGM shows a weaker fit, with values of ±20% and ±15% for 77.3% and 51.4% of the experimental data, respectively, while the proposed model shows good agreement with the available data, with a mean deviation of ±15% and ±10% for 89.8% and 74.1% of the test made.
Progression of adenomyosis: Rate and associated factors
Authors: Borghese Giulia , Doglioli Marisol , Orsini Benedetta , Raffone Antonio , Neola Daniele , Travaglino Antonio , Rovero Giulia , del Forno Simona , de Meis Lucia , Locci Mariavittoria , Guida Maurizio , Lenzi Jacopo , Seracchioli Renato , Raimondo Diego
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the rate of disease progression and the factors associated with such progression in patients with an ultrasound diagnosis of adenomyosis.

Methods

This was a single center, prospective, observational, cohort study performed at a tertiary referral center. Patients who obtained an ultrasound diagnosis of adenomyosis from May 2022 to August 2022 were recruited. Demographic, clinical and ultrasound data were recorded at the first visit (T0) and after 12 months (T1) for enrolled patients and compared between T0 and T1. The study population was divided in two groups according to progression (increase in uterine volume >20%) or stability/regression (decrease or increase in uterine volume ≤20%) of adenomyosis at T1. Primary study outcome was the rate of adenomyosis progression, while secondary study outcome was the association of adenomyosis progression with demographic and clinical factors. Post hoc subgroups analyses for primary and secondary study outcomes were performed based on hormonal therapy (untreated and treated).

Results

A total of 221 patients were enrolled in the study, with no significant difference in terms of baseline data among the two study groups and no patients were lost to follow‐up. The overall rate of adenomyosis progression was 21.3% (47/221 patients). The rate was 30.77% in hormonally untreated women, and 18.34% in hormonally treated women. Progression was associated with the presence of focal adenomyosis of the outer myometrium (P = 0.037), moderate to severe dysmenorrhea (P = 0.001), chronic pelvic pain (P = 0.05), dyschezia (P = 0.05), and worsening of chronic pelvic pain (P = 0.04) at T1.

Conclusion

Adenomyosis showed a rate of disease progression of 21.3% at the 12‐month follow‐up (30.77% in hormonally untreated women, and 18.34% in hormonally treated women). The presence and/or worsening of painful symptoms, such as severe dysmenorrhea, dyschezia and chronic pelvic pain, as well as the presence focal adenomyosis of the outer myometrium, might help identify patients at higher risk of disease progression and tailor their follow‐up.
Active but not quiescent lupus nephritis during pregnancy is associated with a higher rate of adverse obstetric outcomes: Analysis of a prospective cohort
Authors: Saavedra Miguel Ángel , Gracia‐Aréchiga Tayde Sarahí , Miranda‐Hernández Dafhne , Sánchez Antonio , Arrucha‐Cozaya Michelle , Cruz‐Domínguez María del Pilar
Published: May 2024

Objective

To compare the maternal‐fetal/neonatal outcome in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with and without lupus nephritis (LN) in remission or with active disease.

Methods

A prospective cohort of pregnant patients with SLE (ACR 1997 criteria) was studied from January 2009 to December 2021. Demographic, clinical, biochemical, and immunological variables as well as the usual maternal‐fetal/neonatal complications were recorded. We compared four groups according to the status of SLE during pregnancy: patients with quiescent SLE without lupus nephritis, patients with active SLE without lupus nephritis, patients with quiescent lupus nephritis, and patients with active lupus nephritis. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and Cox regression analysis.

Results

A total of 439 pregnancies were studied, with a median age of 28 ± 6, SLE duration of 60 months (interquartile range 36–120). A higher frequency of maternal and fetal/neonatal complications was observed in patients with active SLE with or without lupus nephritis. Multivariate analysis showed that active LN was a risk factor for gestational hypertension (hazard ratios [HR] 1.95; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.01–6.39), premature rupture of membranes (HR 3.56; 95% CI: 1.79–16.05) and more frequent cesarean section (HR 1.82; 95% CI: 1.13–2.94).

Conclusion

LN is associated with a higher frequency of maternal complications, especially in those patients with active disease during pregnancy, and those maternal complications had an impact on poor fetal/neonatal outcomes. Strict control and timely care of LN could improve the obstetric prognosis.
Rapidly progressing ascites in a pregnancy with a massive fibroid: A case report and review of pseudo‐Meigs syndrome
Authors: Roecker Zoe A. , Young Marisa R. , Han Chanhee
Published: May 2024

Meigs syndrome is a classic triad of ascites, pleural effusions, and an ovarian fibroma with resolution following excision. Pseudo‐Meigs syndrome presents similarly but is caused by a pelvic mass other than an ovarian fibroma, such as a fibroid. We present a case report of a 33‐year‐old gravida 2 para 0‐0‐1‐0 woman with a massive, pedunculated fibroid who developed rapid onset of ascites and edema beginning at 5 weeks of gestation. Malignant, cardiac, renal, hepatic, and rheumatologic causes were ruled out. Her symptoms resolved following myomectomy and delivery via cesarean. Pseudo‐Meigs syndrome was suspected. Pseudo‐Meigs syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion and requires surgical management for resolution. Pregnancy may be an inciting factor. Myomectomy may be done safely at the time of cesarean.
The role of institutional diversity in sustainable water use: Performance comparison among water user organizations
Authors: Ağizan Süheyla , Bayramoğlu Zeki , Ağizan Kemalettin , Bozdemir Merve
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the performance of water user organizations (WUOs) in the agricultural sector in terms of their managerial efficiency. A survey was carried out across the study area to evaluate 67 WUOs, including irrigation cooperatives, municipalities, village legal entities (VLEs) and water user associations (WUAs). The findings were then used to create a management performance index. It has been determined that municipalities excel in terms of physical performance, irrigation cooperatives in enterprise and social performance and WUAs in institutional and investment performance. The general management performance index revealed that the most successful WUOs in the Konya closed basin were WUAs. Therefore, proposals have been put forward to begin institutionalization processes in other institutions to attain the successful institutionalization in WUAs. Additionally, the shift towards prepaid systems is recommended to mitigate collection problems, while water should be priced according to the full cost method. Finally, supporting the use of alternative energy sources for irrigation is crucial.
Pooled Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis and Dose Recommendations for Ciprofloxacin in Intensive Care Unit Patients with Obesity
Authors: van Rhee Koen P. , Brüggemann Roger J.M. , Roberts Jason A. , Sjövall Fredrik , van Hest Reinier M. , Elbers Paul W.G. , Abdulla Alan , van der Linden Paul D. , Knibbe Catherijne A.J.
Published: May 2024

Recent studies have explored the influence of obesity and critical illness on ciprofloxacin pharmacokinetics. However, variation across the subpopulation of individuals with obesity admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with varying renal function remains unexamined. This study aims to characterize ciprofloxacin pharmacokinetics in ICU patients with obesity and provide dose recommendations for this special population. Individual patient data of 34 ICU patients with obesity (BMI >30 kg/m2) from four studies evaluating ciprofloxacin pharmacokinetics in ICU patients were pooled and combined with data from a study involving 10 individuals with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. All samples were collected after intravenous administration. Non‐linear mixed effects modeling and simulation were used to develop a population pharmacokinetic model and describe ciprofloxacin exposure in plasma. Model‐based dose evaluations were performed using a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic target of AUC/MIC >125. The data from patients with BMI ranging from 30.2 to 58.1 were best described by a two‐compartment model with first‐order elimination and a proportional error model. The inclusion of Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD‐EPI) as a covariate on clearance reduced inter‐individual variability from 57.3% to 38.5% (P < .001). Neither body weight nor ICU admission significantly influenced clearance or volume of distribution. Renal function is a viable predictor for ciprofloxacin clearance in ICU patients with obesity, while critical illness and body weight do not significantly alter clearance. As such, body weight and critical illness do not need to be accounted for when dosing ciprofloxacin in ICU patients with obesity. Individuals with CKD‐EPI >60 mL/min/1.73 m2 may require higher dosages for the treatment of pathogens with minimal inhibitory concentration ≥0.25 mg/L.
The association between sonographic features and clinical symptoms of adenomyosis
Authors: Maldutytė Gailė , Opolskienė Gina , Rudaitis Vilius , Ramašauskaitė Diana
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To investigate the association of sonographic features and clinical symptoms of adenomyosis.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study. Only reproductive age women who underwent standardized transvaginal ultrasound examination were included. The diagnosis of adenomyosis was based on sonographic features proposed by Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment (MUSA) group. Pictorial blood loss assessment chart (PBAC) and numerical rating scale (NRS) were respectively used for the evaluation of menstrual bleeding and pain.

Results

Fifty‐three women were recruited. Adenomyosis group consisted of 33 (62.3%) representative cases, whereas control group consisted of 20 (37.7%). Women with adenomyosis experienced significantly heavier menstrual bleeding (p = 0.008) and more painful menstrual periods (p = 0.003). Significant positive correlation between the number of sonographic adenomyosis features and both PBAC (r = 0.613, p < 0.001) and NRS scores (r = 0.402, p = 0.022) was found. PBAC score was significantly higher if either fan‐shaped shadowing (r = 0.548, p = 0.001), interrupted junctional zone (JZ) (r = 0.548, p = 0.001) or globular uterus (r = 0.445, p = 0.011) was detected. Interrupted JZ (r = 0.440, p = 0.012) was associated with higher NRS score. Significant positive correlation between PBAC score and adenomyosis spread in uterine layers (r = 0.495, p = 0.004) was established.

Conclusion

Certain sonographic features of adenomyosis and assessment of its involvement in uterine layers may predict the severity of adenomyosis symptoms.
Evaluating student performance assessment methods in Objective Structured Clinical Exam: perspectives and comparisons
Authors: Godwin Matthew , Lin Amy J. , Bin Hamdan Rahaf , Aldosari Muath , Lopez Luis , Park Sang E.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate how student performance and perspectives changed when the Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) assessment system was changed from a composite score to discipline‐specific grading at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine.

Methods

The retrospective study population consisted of all students (n = 349) who completed three OSCEs (OSCE 1, 2, and 3) as part of the predoctoral program during the years 2014–2023. Data on the students’ OSCE scores were obtained from the Office of Dental Education, and data on students’ race/ethnicity and gender were obtained from their admissions data.

Results

The likelihood of a student failing the OSCE after the assessment system change significantly increased with an adjusted odds ratio of 20.12. After the change, the number of failed subjects per student decreased with an adjusted mean ratio of 0.48. Students perceived the OSCE as being less useful after the change. Independent of the grading change, OSCEs 1 and 2 were seen as more useful compared to OSCE 3, which is administered in the last year of the Doctor of Dental Medicine program.

Conclusion

The discipline‐specific nature of the new assessment system helps focus on specific areas of remediation, rather than blanket remediation used previously, in order to isolate the actual areas of deficiency and to focus remediation efforts so that students can align their learning needs appropriately. Therefore, although the actual number of fails identified increased for the course, the assessment change has allowed for more directed, actionable information to be gained from the OSCE to prepare students to work toward competency standards.
Single‐cell transcriptome analysis reveals heterogeneity of neutrophils in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wang Yunzhen , Zhu Ziyi , Luo Raojun , Chen Wenwen
Published: May 2024

Background

Lung cancer stands out as a highly perilous malignant tumor with severe implications for human health. There has been a growing interest in neutrophils as a result of their role in promoting cancer in recent years. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the heterogeneity of neutrophils in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Single‐cell RNA sequencing of tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) and polymorphonuclear neutrophils sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus database was analyzed. Moreover, cell–cell communication, differentiation trajectories and transcription factor analyses were performed.

Results

Neutrophils were found to be closely associated with macrophages. Four major types of TANs were identified: a transitional subcluster that migrated from blood to tumor microenvironment (TAN‐0), an inflammatory subcluster (TAN‐1), a subpopulation that displayed a distinctive transcriptional signature (TAN‐2) and a final differentiation state that promoted tumor formation (TAN‐3). Meanwhile, TAN‐3 displayed a marked increase in glycolytic activity. Finally, transcription factors were analyzed to uncover distinct TAN cluster‐specific regulons.

Conclusions

The discovery of the dynamic characteristics of TANs in the present study is anticipated to contribute to yielding a better understanding of the tumor microenvironment and advancing the treatment of NSCLC.
Scoring system to predict positive peritoneal cytology in patients with resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Yoshimura Tomohiro , Shimizu Atsushi , Kitahata Yuji , Motobayashi Hideki , Sato Masatoshi , Matsumoto Kyohei , Ueno Masaki , Hayami Shinya , Okada Ken‐ichi , Kawai Manabu
Published: May 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate factors to predict positive peritoneal cytology, whcih would determine the indication for staging laparoscopy in pancreatic cancer.

Methods

A total of 430 patients that underwent pancreatectomy for resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic cancer were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Among 430 patients, 36 had positive cytology (8.4%). Median survival time in negative cytology was 24.7 months, compared with 15.1 months in positive cytology (p = .004). Factors to predict positive cytology in pancreatic cancer according to multivariate analysis were tumor location (body, tail; OR 2.66; 95% CI: 1.21–5.85; p = .015), tumor size ≥30 mm (OR 2.95; 95% CI: 1.35–6.47; p = .007) and radiographic other‐organ invasion (HR 2.79; 95% CI: 1.01–7.67; p = .047). Patients were scored 0 to 3 corresponding with these factors. Rates of positive cytology increases in each score were: score 0: 2.9%, score 1: 6.7%, score 2: 18.3%, score 3: 36.8%.

Conclusions

Tumor location (body or tail), tumor size ≥30 mm, and radiographic other‐organ invasions were risk factors for positive cytology in pancreatic cancer. This scoring system might be a useful indicator to perform staging laparoscopy to diagnose positive cytology.
Comparative morphology of male genitalia in antlions (Insecta, Neuroptera, Myrmeleontidae), with emphasis on owlflies (Ascalaphinae) and a possible structural evolutionary scenario
Authors: Marquez‐López Yesenia , Martins Caleb C. , Guevara‐Chumacero Luis M. , Ramírez‐Ponce Andrés , Contreras‐Ramos Atilano
Published: May 2024

Male genitalia morphology in Myrmeleontidae has traditionally been insufficiently studied, although it has received increased attention for its diagnostic value in recent times. A neutral terminology has generally been applied in standard taxonomic practice, yet knowledge of an equivalent and stable terminology across taxa based on comparative morphology has been missing. Herein a detailed comparative morphology study with examples from most tribes within Myrmeleontidae, including owlflies (Ascalaphinae), attempts to relate external and internal genital structures based on a proposed groundplan for Neuroptera and Myrmeleontidae. We contend that a groundplan based on 10 abdominal segments, plus vestigial structures from an 11th segment, coherently depicts structural components across myrmeleontid taxa. A gonarcus, an element of Neuropterida amply referred in Neuroptera, is supported to represent the pair of abdominal appendages of segment X medially fused, with gonocoxite and gonostylus components. In most myrmeleontid taxa, basal (gonocoxites) and distal (gonostyli) components separate, with gonostyli positioned posteriorly with respect to gonocoxites, still united with translucent, lightly sclerotized tissue, forming a more or less conical structure, a proposed synapomorphy for the family. Ninth gonostyli are generally reduced (pulvini) and have migrated close to the base of gonarcus (10th gonocoxites). A pelta, also a potential synapomorphy for Myrmeleontidae, derives from paired setose surfaces of the 10th gonostyli, medially positioned (still evident in Bubopsis). Three structural types of gonarcus are diagnosed for illustrative purposes, as they may represent convergent constructs.
CCSfind: A tool for chemically informed LC‐IM‐MS database building
Authors: Kumari Sangeeta , Causon Tim
Published: May 2024

In addition to providing critical knowledge of the accurate mass of ions, ion mobility‐mass spectrometry (IM‐MS) delivers complementary data relating to the conformation and size of ions in the form of an ion mobility spectrum and derived parameters, namely, the ion's mobility (K) and the IM‐derived collision cross section (CCS). However, the maximum amount of information obtained in IM‐MS measurements is not currently transferred into analytical databases including the full mobility spectra (CCS distributions) as well as capturing of additional ion species (e.g., adducts) into the same compound entry. We introduce CCSfind, a new tool for building comprehensive databases from experimental IM‐MS measurements of small molecules. CCSfind allows predicted ion species to be chosen for input chemical formulae, which are then targeted by CCSfind after parsing open source mzML input files to provide a unified set of results within a single data processing step. CCSfind can handle both chromatographically separated isomers and IM separation of isomeric ions (e.g., “protomers” or conformers of the same ion species) with simple user control over the output for new database entries in SQL format. Files of up to 1 GB can be processed in less than 2 min on a desktop computer with 32 GB RAM with computational time scaling linearly with the size of the input mzML file or the number of input molecular formulae. Results are manually reviewed, annotated with experimental settings, before committing the database where the full dataset can be retrieved.
A potential antiviral role for CCR5+CD8+ T cells in children with hepatitis B
Authors: Tan Aoxue , He Yi , Zhou Yingzhi , Peng Xiaorong , Chang Yunan , Peng Mingli , Ren Hong , Xu Hongmei
Published: May 2024

While dysfunctional exhausted CD8+ T cells hamper viral control when children acquire hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, it's crucial to recognize that CD8+ T cells have diverse phenotypes and functions. This study explored a subset of CD8+ T cells expressing C‐C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5) in children with HBV infection. Thirty‐six patients in the immune tolerant group, 33 patients in the immune active group, 55 patients in the combined response group, and 22 healthy control children were enrolled. The frequency, functional molecules, and effector functions of the CCR5+CD8+ T cell population in different groups were evaluated. The frequency of CCR5+CD8+ T cells correlated positively with the frequency of CCR5+CD4+ T cells and patient age, and it correlated negatively with alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, HBV DNA, hepatitis B surface antigen, and lactic dehydrogenase levels. CCR5+CD8+ T cells had higher levels of inhibitory and activated receptors and produced higher levels of IFN‐γ, IL‐2, and TNF‐α than CCR5‐CD8+ T cells. CCR5+CD8+ T cells were partially exhausted but possessed a stronger antiviral activity than CCR5‐CD8+ T cells. The identification of this subset increases our understanding of CD8+ T cell functions and serves as a potential immunotherapeutic target for children with HBV infection.
High‐pressure studies of Mn2(C2H6N6)4(NO3)4·2H2O by Raman scattering, infrared absorption, and synchrotron X‐ray diffraction
Authors: Ding Jie , Zhang Jianguo , Pu Zhongze , Jiang Junru , He Zhijun , Wang Jian , Zhu Hongyang
Published: May 2024

Mn2(C2H6N6)4(NO3)4·2H2O (Mn) as one of the energetic coordination complexes was chosen for high‐pressure research. In this work, Mn was analyzed by in situ Raman scattering, infrared absorption, and synchrotron angle‐dispersive X‐ray diffraction (ADXRD) technologies up to ~20 GPa at room temperature. The vibrational modes of Mn at ambient pressure were comprehensively resolved based on the experimental results. Detailed spectral analyses revealed that Mn underwent three pressure‐induced phase transitions at 0.5, 2.5, and 5.7 GPa, respectively. ADXRD experiments confirmed the existence of these three phase transitions in Raman and infrared spectra analyses. Based on the analysis of the vibrational spectra and the changes of lattice parameters under pressure, it can be considered that the deformation of the 3‐hydrazino‐4‐amino‐1, 2, 4‐triazole (HATr) ligand led to the first phase transition, and the distortion of the triazole ring induced the second phase transition, and the rearrangement of the hydrogen bonds resulted in the third phase transition. In addition, it can be inferred from Raman spectra and ADXRD data that Mn may have experienced the abnormal expansion during the first phase transition. This work may lay the foundation for further investigating the structure and properties of energetic coordination complexes under pressure.
Impact of salt content on Douchi metabolites: biogenic amines, non‐volatile compounds and volatile compounds
Authors: Li Aijun , Liu Yuchen , Yang Gang , Du Muying , Song Jun , Kan Jianquan
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

The excessive salt intake associated with Douchi has become a topic of controversy. Addressing this concern and enhancing its market competitiveness necessitates the application of salt reduction fermentation in Douchi. Therefore, to promote the application of salt reduction fermentation in Douchi, a comprehensive study was undertaken aiming to investigate the differences in biogenic amines, volatile compounds and non‐volatile compounds in Douchi with varying salt content.

RESULTS

The findings unequivocally demonstrate that salt hampers the formation of metabolites in Douchi. As the salt content increased, there was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the levels of total acid, amino‐type nitrogen and free amino acids in Douchi. Notably, when the salt content exceeded 80 g kg−1, there was a substantial reduction (P < 0.05) in putrescine, lactic acid and malic acid levels. Similarly, when the salt content surpassed 40 g kg−1, β‐phenethylamine and oxalic acid levels exhibited a significant decline (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the results of E‐nose and principal component analysis based on headspace solid phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry revealed notable discrepancies in the volatile compound content between Douchi samples with relatively low salt content (40 and 80 g kg−1) and those with relatively high salt content (120, 160 and 200 g kg−1) (P < 0.05). By employing partial least squares discriminant analysis, eight distinct volatile compounds, including o‐xylene, benzaldehyde and 1‐octen‐one, were identified. These compounds exhibited higher concentrations in Douchi samples with relatively low salt content (40 and 80 g kg−1). The sensory results showed that Douchi samples with lower salt content exhibited higher scores in the soy sauce‐like and Douchi aroma attributes.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this study significantly enhances our understanding of the impact of salt on metabolites in Douchi and provides invaluable insights for the development of salt reduction fermentation in this context. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The study on the splicing seam of mini‐light‐emitting‐diode display screen
Authors: Yang Zezhou , Jin Liangliang , Zhao Le , Zhang Shubai , Sun Wenjia , Li Jiaxin , Li Yueqiao , Guan Jun , Chen Xiangyi , Shi Lingyun
Published: May 2024

When viewing the mini‐LED display screen from a large angle, the seam appearing at the edge of the module can disrupt the uniformity of the entire screen's bright state. This paper studies the formation mechanism of bright and dark seam and color seam from the perspectives of spatial frequency and packaging structure, derives the formula for spatial frequency, analyzes the optical path at the splicing position, and designs a reasonable packaging film structure to solve the color seam.