bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Burden of Healthcare Services on Cancer Survivors in Bangladesh
Authors: Shahjalal Md. , Dahal Padam Kanta , Mosharaf Md. Parvez , Alam Mohammad Morshad , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain , Mahumud Rashidul Alam
Published: August 2024

Background

Cancer is a critical public health issue that imposes a considerable economic burden, especially in low‐resource countries. In Bangladesh, there has been a noticeable lack of research focusing on the economic burden associated with cancer. Aims: This study aimed to examine the economic burden of cancer care and the contributing factors.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 623 cancer patients. Data were collected between January and May 2022. The magnitude of the economic burden (no burden to extreme burden) was the outcome variable. A logistic regression model was performed to determine the associated factors of the economic burden of cancer.

Results

Overall, 34% of cancer survivors experienced extreme economic burden due to treatment costs. Patients with prostate (relative risk ratio, RRR = 23.24; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.97, 273.70), bone (RRR = 5.85; 95% CI: 1.10, 31.04), and liver cancer (RRR = 4.94; 95% CI: 1.29, 18.9) reported significantly higher extreme economic burden compared to patients with other cancers. The economic burden was significantly higher for patients diagnosed with Stage III (RRR = 38.69; 95% CI: 6.17, 242.72) and Stage IV (RRR = 24.74; 95% CI: 3.22, 190.11) compared to Stage 0. Patients from low‐income households suffered from nine times more extreme burden (RRR = 8.85; 95% CI: 4.05, 19.36) compared with those from high‐income households.

Conclusion

Our study found a disproportionately high economic burden among patients with cancer, across disease sites, stages, and income quintiles. The burden was significantly higher among patients with prostate, bone, and liver cancer, and those diagnosed with advanced stage. The findings underscore the importance of early cancer detection before metastasis which may lead to more efficient treatment, avoid disease progression, lower disease management costs, and better health outcomes. Patients from low‐income households experience an extreme economic burden due to cancer, highlighting the need for affordable healthcare services, financial support, and healthcare subsidies.
Mechanism‐Guided Rational Design of Anode Coatings for Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Jiang Yizhi , Xiong Danyang , Wan Zheng , Yang Jinrong , He Xiao
Published: August 2024

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) hold promises as a safer, more cost‐effective, and environmental‐friendly alternative to lithium‐ion batteries, especially for stationary energy storage. Recent advancements in protective anode coatings, which fine‐tune zinc ion solvation structure, have yielded significant improvements in the aqueous ZIB performance, addressing dendrite formation and side reactions, thereby prolonging cycle lifetime. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of these coatings as ions sieves is crucial for further optimization and achieving long‐term stability, which is a key requirement for practical applications. This concept explores recent developments in ZIB anode coatings from the view of molecular mechanisms and points out future research directions.
Synaptic Response of Fluidic Nanopores: The Connection of Potentiation with Hysteresis
Authors: Bisquert Juan , Sánchez‐Mateu Marc , Bou Agustín , Suwen Law Cheryl , Santos Abel
Published: August 2024

Iontronic fluidic ionic/electronic components are emerging as promising elements for artificial brain‐like computation systems. Nanopore ionic rectifiers can be operated as a synapse element, exhibiting conductance modulation in response to a train of voltage impulses, thus producing programmable resistive states. We propose a model that replicates hysteresis, rectification, and time domain response properties, based on conductance modulation between two conducting modes and a relaxation time of the state variable. We show that the kinetic effects observed in hysteresis loops govern the potentiation phenomena related to conductivity modulation. To illustrate the efficacy of the model, we apply it to replicate rectification, hysteresis and conductance modulation of two different experimental systems: a polymer membrane with conical pores, and a blind‐hole nanoporous anodic alumina membrane with a barrier oxide layer. We show that the time transient analysis of the model develops the observed potentiation and depression phenomena of the synaptic properties.
Green Synthesis of MOF‐Based Materials for Electrochemical Reduction of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Bagheri Mitra , Lourenço Mirtha A. O. , Dangbegnon Julien K. , Monti Nicolò B. D. , Mafra Luís , Pirri Fabrizio , Zeng Juqin
Published: August 2024

Porous ZIF‐8 and ZIF‐67 were synthesized via a green steam‐assisted dry‐gel technique and investigated as potential catalysts for CO2 electroreduction. The synthesis conditions are found to significantly influence the growth of these metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs). Notably, the water content employed during synthesis plays a crucial role in shaping the morphological properties of ZIF‐8. Specifically, a moderate water content results in the formation of uniform ZIF‐8 with a size distribution ranging from 240–440 nm. During CO2 electroreduction, these morphological properties exert substantial effects on the selectivity for CO formation, thereby facilitating the production of syngas with adjustable CO: H2 ratios. This feature holds promise for the widespread adoption of syngas as a clean alternative to fossil fuels, offering potential benefits for electricity generation and liquid fuel production. Despite sharing similar structural properties with ZIF‐8, ZIF‐67 exhibits distinct performance characterized by its limited selectivity for CO2 electroreduction. This discrepancy is attributed to the different metal centers of the two MOFs, resulting in the distinct activation of CO2 and H2O molecules and their further reduction. This finding highlights the critical role of metal centers in MOF‐based materials for electrocatalysis application.
Prospects of Pseudomonas in Microbial Fuel, Bioremediation, and Sustainability
Authors: Song Ying‐Jie , Zhao Ning‐Lin , Dai De‐Rong , Bao Rui
Published: August 2024

Microbial applications in agriculture and industry have gained significant attention due to their potential to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development. Among these, the genus Pseudomonas stands out as a promising candidate for various biotechnological uses, thanks to its metabolic flexibility, resilience, and adaptability to diverse environments. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of microbial fuel production, bioremediation, and sustainable development, focusing on the pivotal role of Pseudomonas species. We emphasize the importance of microbial fuel as a renewable energy source and discuss recent advancements in enhancing biofuel generation using Pseudomonas strains. Additionally, we explore the critical role of Pseudomonas in bioremediation processes, highlighting its ability to degrade a wide spectrum of pollutants, including hydrocarbons, pesticides, and heavy metals, thereby reducing environmental contamination. Despite significant progress, several challenges remain. These include refining microbial strains for optimal process efficiency and addressing ecological considerations. Nonetheless, the diverse capabilities of Pseudomonas offer promising avenues for innovative solutions to pressing environmental issues, supporting the transition to a more sustainable future.
Macrophage OTUD1‐CARD9 axis drives isoproterenol‐induced inflammatory heart remodelling
Authors: Qian Jinfu , Wang Qinyan , Xu Jiachen , Liang Shiqi , Zheng Qingsong , Guo Xiaocheng , Luo Wu , Huang Weijian , Long Xiaohong , Min Julian , Wang Yi , Wu Gaojun , Liang Guang
Published: August 2024

Background

Chronic inflammation contributes to the progression of isoproterenol (ISO)‐induced heart failure (HF). Caspase‐associated recruitment domain (CARD) families are crucial proteins for initiation of inflammation in innate immunity. Nonetheless, the relevance of CARDs in ISO‐driven cardiac remodelling is little explored.

Methods

This study utilized Card9−/− mice and reconstituted C57BL/6 mice with either Card9−/− or Otud1−/− marrow‐derived cells. Mechanistic studies were conducted in primary macrophages, cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts and HEK‐293T cells.

Results

Here, we demonstrated that CARD9 was substantially upregulated in murine hearts infused with ISO. Either whole‐body CARD9 knockout or myeloid‐specific CARD9 deletion inhibited ISO‐driven murine cardiac inflammation, remodelling and dysfunction. CARD9 deficiency in macrophages prevented ISO‐induced inflammation and alleviated remodelling changes in cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts. Mechanistically, we found that ISO enhances the activity of CARD9 by upregulating ovarian tumour deubiquitinase 1 (OTUD1) in macrophages. We further demonstrated that OTUD1 directly binds to the CARD9 and then removes the K33‐linked ubiquitin from CARD9 to promote the assembly of the CARD9‐BCL10‐MALT1 (CBM) complex, without affecting CARD9 stability. The ISO‐activated CBM complex results in NF‐κB activation and macrophage‐based inflammatory gene overproduction, which then enhances cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and fibroblast fibrosis, respectively. Myeloid‐specific OTUD1 deletion also attenuated ISO‐induced murine cardiac inflammation and remodelling.

Conclusions

These results suggested that the OTUD1‐CARD9 axis is a new pro‐inflammatory signal in ISO‐challenged macrophages and targeting this axis has a protective effect against ISO‐induced HF.

Key points

Macrophage CARD9 was elevated in heart tissues of mice under chronic ISO administration.

Either whole‐body CARD9 knockout or myeloid‐specific CARD9 deficiency protected mice from ISO‐induced inflammatory heart remodeling.

ISO promoted the assembly of CBM complex and then activated NF‐κB signaling in macrophages through OTUD1‐mediated deubiquitinating modification.

OTUD1 deletion in myeloid cells protected hearts from ISO‐induced injuries in mice.
Performance analysis in multiuser downlink visible light communication MIMO system using SSK and optical orthogonal codes
Authors: Wu Wei‐Chiang , Chen Gan‐Lin
Published: August 2024

This paper considers multiuser downlink transmission and detection in a multiple input‐multiple output (MIMO) visible light communication (VLC) system. We combine two promising techniques: space‐shift keying (SSK) and optical orthogonal codes (OOCs). Multiuser downlink transmission is realized by allowing each activated LED to transmit user‐specific OOC simultaneously. An OOC despreader is implemented at the front end of each user terminal (UT) to extract the desired signal and mitigate multiuser interference (MUI). The second part of UT receiver aims to extract the index of the corresponding active LED based on maximum likelihood (ML) or zero‐forcing (ZF) algorithm. The figure of merit we used to access the performance of the proposed downlink multiuser SSK system is the average symbol error rate (SER). Comprehensive Monte Carlo simulations have been undertaken for different system setup to evaluate SER at UT receiver. It is demonstrated that for a specified SER, the required SNR for ML‐based detection algorithm is 3 dB less than the ZF detector in the MUI‐free scenario. On the other hand, the ZF detector outperforms ML detector in the case with residual MUI and limited channel state information (CSI). Both algorithms are computationally attractive, hence can be put into practice in multiuser VLC MIMO system.
Copper nanoclusters derived from copper phthalocyanine as real active sites for CO2 electroreduction: Exploring size dependency on selectivity ‐ A mini review
Authors: Liu Tengyi , Yabu Hiroshi
Published: August 2024

The electrochemical reduction reaction of CO2 (CO2RR) holds promise for converting CO2 into valuable fuels and chemicals, particularly when powered by renewable electricity, thereby aiding in reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and addressing climate change. Copper phthalocyanine and its derivatives (Cu‐Pcs) have attracted significant attention as versatile electrocatalytic materials with high selectivity toward various hydrocarbon products. However, the real active sites of Cu‐Pcs for different products vary, and there is a lack of comprehensive summary. To address this gap, we analyze and summarize previous research, yielding the following insights: Cu‐Pcs undergo reconstruction and demetallization during CO2RR, with Cu(II) converting to Cu(0), forming transient copper nanoclusters (Cu NCs). The selectivity for CO2RR products closely correlates with the size of those derived Cu NCs. Specifically, reversible Cu NCs with ultrasmall sizes (≤2 nm), which revert to Cu‐Pcs after electrolysis, exhibit high selectivity toward CH4. As Cu NCs increase in size, there is a higher CO coverage, promoting CO generation. When Cu NCs exceed a critical threshold size (approximately 15 nm), C‐C coupling can occur, facilitating the formation of multicarbon (C2+) products. Furthermore, the structure of macrocycles, types of functional groups, and properties of carbon substrates influence the size and electron density of Cu NCs, thereby impacting the selectivity of CO2RR products.
Unusual morphologies raise questions about the evolution of branching in kelps (Laminariales)
Authors: Starko Samuel
Published: August 2024

Branching stipe morphologies have evolved multiple times across the kelp (Laminariales) lineage, creating morphological forms that drive the complexity of kelp forest habitats. Although branching is likely a complicated developmental process, it has evolved repeatedly through kelp evolution and the processes facilitating the emergence of branched forms from unbranched ancestors remain unclear. Here I report on abnormally branched individuals (n = 9) from five kelp species found in British Columbia, Canada that had atypical bifurcations in their stipes, creating a single dichotomous branch. One of these species generally lacks branching entirely (Laminaria ephemera) while the other four exhibit some branching but typically lack this stipe bifurcation (Alaria marginata, Laminaria setchellii, Nereocystis luetkeana, Pterygophora californica). These unusually branched individuals exhibited replicated morphological subunits distal to the stipe bifurcation, including more blades, pneumatocysts, and sporophylls than is typical. This suggests that unbranched species possess an inherent developmental capacity for modularity with autonomy in the development of individual modules that may have helped to facilitate the widespread emergence of branched morphologies. Given the role of kelp forests in coastal environments, branching may influence habitat characteristics, potentially influencing community dynamics, and is thus a trait of particular evolutionary interest. These findings highlight the need for experiments that manipulate kelp development to better characterise the ontogenetic processes of these globally important taxa.
Peripheral hearing sensitivity is similar between the sexes in a benthic turtle species despite the larger body size of males
Authors: Wang Tongliang , Yang Jinxia , Lei Jinhong , Huang Jingdeng , Shi Haitao , Wang Jichao
Published: August 2024

Sexually dimorphic hearing sensitivity has evolved in many vertebrate species, and the sex with a larger body size typically shows more sensitive hearing. However, generalizing this association is controversial. Research on sexually dimorphic hearing sensitivity contributes to an understanding of auditory sense functions, adaptations, and evolution among species. Therefore, the hypothesized association between body size and hearing needs further validation, especially in specific animal groups. In this study, we assessed hearing sensitivity by measuring auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) in both sexes of 3‐year‐old Chinese softshell turtles (Pelodiscus sinensis). In this species, male bodies are larger than those of female, and individuals spend most of their lives in the mud at the bottom of freshwater habitats. We found that for both sexes, the hearing sensitivity bandwidth was 0.2–0.9 kHz. Although males were significantly larger than females, no significant differences in ABR thresholds or latencies were found between males and females at the same stimulus frequency. These results indicate that P. sinensis hearing is only sensitive to low‐frequency (typically <0.9 kHz) sound signals and that sexually dimorphic hearing sensitivity is not a trait that has evolved in P. sinensis. Physiological and environmental reasons may account for P. sinensis acoustic communication via low‐frequency sound signals and the lack of sexually dimorphic hearing sensitivity in these benthic turtles. The results of this study refine our understanding of the adaptation and evolution of the vertebrate auditory system.
Characterization of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus stoichiometry of plant leaves in the riparian zone of Dahuofang Reservoir
Authors: Chang Baoliang , Chen Wei , He Xingyuan , Yu Shuai
Published: August 2024

Carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) are essential nutrients that promote plant growth and development and maintain the stability of ecosystem structure and function. Analyzing the C, N, and P characteristics of plant leaves aids in understanding the plant's nutrient status and nutrient limitation. Seasonal water‐level fluctuations in riparian zones lead to various ecological problems, such as reduced biodiversity and decreased ecosystem stability. Therefore, comprehending the stoichiometric characteristics of riparian zone plants and their nutrient response to plant traits is important for a deeper insight into riparian zone forest ecosystems. This study analyzed the C, N, and P contents of the leaves of 44 woody plants in the riparian zone of the Dahuofang Reservoir to investigate the stoichiometric characteristics of C, N, and P of trees in the region. The results showed that the average C content of the leaves in woody plants was 446.9 g kg−1; the average N content was 28.42 g kg−1; and the average P content was 2.26 g kg−1. Compared to global and regional scales, woody plants in the riparian zone of the Dahuofang Reservoir exhibited higher N and P contents but lower N:P ratios. Compared to other riparian zones, woody plant leaves in the riparian zone of Dahuofang Reservoir had relatively high N content and N:P ratios. Variations in plant stoichiometric characteristics across different life forms were minimal, with only tree leaf P content significantly lower than its in shrubs. There was no significant correlation between leaf C, N, and P in woody plants, while specific leaf area showed a negative correlation with leaf C content. Trees in the riparian zone have high leaf N and P content and are primarily N‐limited during the growing season. This study reveals the stoichiometric characteristics of leaves of woody plants in the riparian zone, which can contribute to an in‐depth understanding of leaf stoichiometric patterns and the factors influencing them among plant life types in the riparian zone.
Effects of climate on the phenology of Annona senegalensis Pers. (Annonaceae) and the distribution of associated insects in Burkina Faso
Authors: Dao Zézouma Anselme , Romba Rahim , Jaloux Bruno , Ouedraogo Amadé , Gnankine Olivier
Published: August 2024

Climate change and global warming in the Sahelian region cause dramatic drought and advancing of the desert. This phenomenon could affect the plant survival and community composition, but even for surviving plants, it could affect their phenology and the insect community associated with them. In a space‐for‐time approach, we studied the case of Annona senegalensis Pers. (Annonaceae), a common shrub in tropical areas, to determine the impact of climate change on its phenology and the insects associated with its flowers and fruits. We determined the phenology phases of Annona senegalensis during a 1‐year period and assessed the abundance and diversity of insects in the Sudanian and the Sudano‐Sahelian climatic zones of Burkina Faso. Temperature, rainfall and relative humidity were recorded during 12 months in two sites per zone. Leafing of Annona senegalensis lasted 10 months in the Sudanian zone, flowering and fruiting were 3 months long. In the Sudano‐Sahelian zone, leafing lasted 8 months while flowering and fruiting were 3 and 4 months long, respectively. A total of 10,040 insects belonging to 48 species were collected in the two climatic zones. Forty‐six species were found in the Sudanian zone while 25 species were recorded in the Sudano‐Sahelian one. The variations in the plant phenology and the insect community were mainly due to the variation in rainfall across both climatic zones. Our results emphasize that advancing of the desert due to climate change could not only affect the survival of plants but for resistant species it also affect their interactions with insects and the whole insect community associated.
The first emerging records of a dragonfly in the dark zone of subterranean ecosystems: Exuviae and newly emerged adults of Hyrcanian Goldenring, Cordulegaster vanbrinkae in Danial Cave, northern Iran
Authors: Ghelich Khani Pouria , Kiany Mohsen , Qashqaei Ali Turk
Published: August 2024

Riverine caves are special habitats that are home to many aquatic and terrestrial species. Some Odonata species and their emerging are recorded at the entrance and in the twilight zones of subterranean habitats around the world. However, the emergence of any Odonata species has not been recorded in the dark zones of caves or other subterranean habitats. We report the first evidence of the emerging of the Hyrcanian Goldenring, Cordulegaster vanbrinkae Lohmann, 1993, as an endemic species of the Hyrcanian biogeographical region, in the dark zone of Danial Cave, in the World Heritage‐listed Hyrcanian Forests, northern Iran. During 2020–2023, three newly emerged and three exuviae of the species were recorded in the entrance zone (25 m) and the dark zone of the cave (200–280 m). The main hypothesis of the study is the entry and exit of adults from the cave entrance. However, we still do not know if the newly emerged will leave the cave or not. We still need more study on the biology and ecology of the species inside and around the cave. Danial Cave, with its high biodiversity, is one of the most important caves in the Middle East, and is urgently in need of conservation as a national natural monument.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis to predict mortality in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: Development and validation of the HF‐DANAS score
Authors: Wang Chuanhe , Guan Lin , Han Su , Tong Fei , Li Ying , Li Zhichao , Sun Hao , Sun Zhijun
Published: August 2024

Aims

The morbidity and mortality of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) continue to increase with the accelerating global aging process. During the past decade, the pathophysiology, diagnostic methods, and prognostic prediction of HFpEF have been revolutionized, resulting in new and effective management strategies. Dynamic prognostic assessment facilitates systematic clinical management of patients, and the aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors for mortality in patients with HFpEF and to develop a risk prediction assessment model.

Methods and reults

Data for the derivation cohort were obtained from three databases, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane. The validation cohort was obtained from the Chinese Heart Failure Center database. The β‐coefficient was calculated based on the risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) corresponding to each risk factor to construct a mortality risk assessment model. A total of 30 studies were included in the meta‐analysis: 22 prospective cohort studies and 8 retrospective cohort studies, including 34 196 HFpEF patients. Seven predictors of all‐cause mortality in HFpEF patients were derived. Considering the need for feasibility in clinical practice, we performed subgroup and sensitivity analyses and determined the following cutoff values: age > 75 years (RR: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.83–2.35; P < 0.001), male sex (RR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.17–1.59; P < 0.001), DM (RR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.11–1.36; P < 0.001), anaemia (RR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.41–1.67; P < 0.001), albumin concentration < 3.2 g/dL (RR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.14–1.47; P < 0.001), AF (RR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.12–1.43; P < 0.001), and NYHA class III/IV (RR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.43–1.87; P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) for this model was 71.3% (95% CI: 0.696–0.736), with an optimal cut‐off value of 10.75. The sensitivity and specificity were 0.778 and 0.566, respectively. According to this risk score, we divided patients into three risk classes (low, moderate, and high risk), the numbers of patients who died by the end of the 1‐year follow‐up were 23 (1.87%), 82 (5.62%), and 382 (15.52%) in these three groups, and the 5‐year mortality rates were 9.82%, 20.68%, and 43.28%, respectively.

Conclusions

This study developed an HF‐DANAS scoring system for the HFpEF mortality risk containing seven predictors, providing clinicians with a simple assessment tool that can help improve clinical management.
Heart failure with improved versus persistently reduced left ventricular ejection fraction: A comparison of the BIOSTAT‐CHF (European) study with the ASIAN‐HF registry
Authors: Cao Thong Huy , Tay Wan Ting , Jones Donald J.L. , Cleland John G.F. , Tromp Jasper , Emmens Johanna Elisabeth , Teng Tiew‐Hwa Katherine , Chandramouli Chanchal , Slingsby Oliver Charles , Anker Stefan D. , Dickstein Kenneth , Filippatos Gerasimos , Lang Chim C. , Metra Marco , Ponikowski Piotr , Samani Nilesh J. , Van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Zannad Faiez , Anand Inder S. , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Voors Adriaan A. , Ng Leong L.
Published: August 2024

Aims

We investigated the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and prognosis of patients with heart failure (HF) with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF).

Methods and results

We used data from BIOSTAT‐CHF including patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤40% at baseline who had LVEF re‐assessed at 9 months. HFimpEF was defined as a LVEF >40% and a LVEF ≥10% increase from baseline at 9 months. We validated findings in the ASIAN‐HF registry. The primary outcome was a composite of time to HF rehospitalization or all‐cause mortality. In BIOSTAT‐CHF, about 20% of patients developed HFimpEF, that was associated with a lower primary event rate of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 0.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.28–0.97, p = 0.040) and the composite endpoint (HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.30–0.70, p < 0.001) compared with patients who remained in persistent HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The findings were similar in the ASIAN‐HF (HR 0.40, 95% CI 0.18–0.89, p = 0.024, and HR 0.29, 95% CI 0.17–0.48, p < 0.001). Five independently common predictors for HFimpEF in both BIOSTAT‐CHF and ASIAN‐HF were female sex, absence of ischaemic heart disease, higher LVEF, smaller left ventricular end‐diastolic and end‐systolic diameter at baseline. A predictive model combining only five predictors (absence of ischaemic heart disease and left bundle branch block, smaller left ventricular end‐systolic and left atrial diameter, and higher platelet count) for HFimpEF in the BIOSTAT‐CHF achieved an area under the curve of 0.772 and 0.688 in the ASIAN‐HF (due to missing left atrial diameter and platelet count).

Conclusions

Approximately 20–30% of patients with HFrEF improved to HFimpEF within 1 year with better clinical outcomes. In addition, the predictive model with clinical predictors could more accurately predict HFimpEF in patients with HFrEF.
Electrochemical Construction of C−F Bonds: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
Authors: Li Boao , Xu Muwu , Feng Pengju , Xu Shihai
Published: August 2024

Ideal pathways to synthesize fluorinated compounds were pursued for over 100 years, due to wide application of organofluorides in materials, agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. In this regard, electro‐organic synthesis, evolved as a sustainable and scalable approach in various synthetic protocols, stands out as a promising strategy. As a result, many novel and attracting applications of introduction of fluorine items into organic compounds by direct and redox‐mediated electrochemical methods has been reported, especially in recent five years. In this review, we are aim to highlight the reaction scopes, reaction mechanism, the fundamental aspects and the fluorine source variation in electrochemcial fluoriation transformation.
Palladium Supported on Silk Fibroin as Efficient Catalyst for Sonogashira Coupling and Sonogashira‐Cacchi Type Annulation
Authors: Albano Gianluigi , Rizzo Giorgio , Salvati Fabio , Pitzalis Emanuela , Ricciardelli Carola , Aronica Laura A. , Farinola Gianluca M.
Published: August 2024

A palladium catalyst supported on silk fibroin (Pd/SF) has been tested in the Sonogashira coupling reactions of a wide range of aryl iodides and terminal alkynes. The best catalytic performance was obtained at 90 °C using only 0.25 mol % metal loading under copper‐free conditions, in the presence of a H2O/EtOH (3 : 2 v/v) solvent mixture and triethylamine as the base, affording the coupling products in good yields. The Pd/SF‐based protocol was then successfully extended to the synthesis of benzofurans through Sonogashira‐Cacchi type annulation of 2‐iodophenol with terminal alkynes. Preliminary investigations on the recyclability and the heterogeneous behaviour of the catalyst were performed: hot filtration test and leaching test evidenced the presence of a small amount of soluble active palladium species into the reaction mixture. Nevertheless, Pd/SF could be reused in recharging test and it can be recycled in four consecutive runs with no significant deactivation.
Three‐Component Synthesis of Fluorescent 1,4‐Benzothiazin‐2‐ones Through Thiol‐Free Iodine‐Catalyzed Cyclization
Authors: Rajkumar Deepan Babu , Gnanaoli Karthiyayini , Krishnamoorthy Kirubashini , Maheswari C. Uma
Published: August 2024

A convergent synthesis of 2H‐benzo[b][1,4]thiazin‐2‐one was achieved via iodine‐catalyzed three‐component reaction. This strategy involves the formation of two new C−S bonds and a C−N bond from the readily available precursors ‐ aryl methyl ketones, p‐anisidine, and elemental sulfur to generate the desired heterocycle in moderate to good yields. As the synthesized benzothiazine‐2‐ones are fluorescent under UV light, photophysical properties like solid‐state emission, solvatochromism, Aggregation Induced Emission (AIE), and the relative quantum yields of the compounds were measured which proves them to be a potential candidate for the development of optoelectronic devices.
Seminal root angle is associated with root system architecture in durum wheat
Authors: Kang Yichen , Rambla Charlotte , Haeften Shanice V. , Fu Brendan , Akinlade Oluwaseun , Potgieter Andries B. , Borrell Andrew K. , Mace Emma , Jordan David R. , Alahmad Samir , Hickey Lee T.
Published: August 2024

Optimal root system architecture (RSA) is critical for efficient resource capture in soils, hence being an interest in crop breeding. Seminal root angle (SRA) at the seedling stage in durum wheat has been suggested to be a good indicator of RSA. However, research on correlating such laboratory‐based seedling root phenotyping to RSA at later phases of plant growth is limited, resulting in the importance of root trait variation seen in seedlings often being overstated. To explore the role of SRA in modifying RSA at later phases of plant growth, we assessed 11 genotypes contrasting in SRA (wide and narrow), grown in a rhizobox designed for phenotyping root systems of plants during late‐tillering. Aboveground traits and root dry mass in different soil depths and across the entire soil volume were measured manually, while root architectural traits were extracted using image analysis and summarised by multiple factor analysis to describe RSA. When comparing the wide and narrow genotypes, no differences were detected for aboveground traits and total root dry mass. However, differences were observed in the allocation of root dry mass at different depths. The wide and narrow genotypes showed distinct RSAs, particularly in the upper soil (0–30 cm). The wide genotypes exhibited a ‘spread‐out’ root system with dense and thin roots, whereas the narrow genotypes had a compact root system with fewer but thicker roots. Our study demonstrated a clear difference in RSA between the wide and narrow genotypes, highlighting the association between SRA on the direction and distribution of root growth in plants at later growth stages.
Hereditary Colorectal Cancer and Polyposis Syndromes Caused by Variants in Uncommon Genes
Authors: Bouras Ahmed , Fabre Aurélie , Zattara Hélène , Handallou Sandrine , Desseigne Françoise , Kientz Caroline , Prieur Fabienne , Peysselon Magalie , Legrand Clémentine , Calavas Laura , Saurin Jean‐Christophe , Wang Qing
Published: August 2024

A substantial number of hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) and colonic polyposis cannot be explained by alteration in confirmed predisposition genes, such as mismatch repair (MMR) genes, APC and MUTYH. Recently, a certain number of potential predisposition genes have been suggested, involving each a small number of cases reported so far. Here, we describe the detection of rare variants in the NTLH1, AXIN2, RNF43, BUB1, and TP53 genes in nine unrelated patients who were suspected for inherited CRC and/or colonic polyposis. Seven of them were classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants (PV/LPV). Clinical manifestations of carriers were largely consistent with reported cases with, nevertheless, distinct characteristics. PV/LPV in these uncommon gene can be responsible for up to 2.7% of inherited CRC or colonic polyposis syndromes. Our findings provide supporting evidence for the role of these genes in cancer predisposition, and contribute to the determination of related cancer spectrum and cancer risk for carriers, allowing for the establishment of appropriate screening strategy and genetic counseling in affected families.
Predictors of distant metastatic recurrence in head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with lymph node metastases treated with curative intent: A multicenter study
Authors: Ebrahimi Ardalan , Gupta Ruta , McDowell Lachlan , Magarey Matthew J. R. , Smith Paul N. , Schulte Klaus‐Martin , Perriman Diana M. , Veness Michael , Porceddu Sandro , Low Tsu‐Hui Hubert , Fowler Allan , Clark Jonathan R.
Published: August 2024

Background

We aimed to identify predictors of distant metastatic recurrence (DMR) in patients with head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (HNcSCC) with nodal metastases treated with curative intent.

Methods

Predictors of DMR were identified using Cox regression in a multicenter study of 1151 patients.

Results

The 5‐year risk of DMR was 9.6%. On multivariate analysis, immunosuppression (HR 2.93; 95% CI: 1.70–5.05; p < 0.001), nodal size >6 cm [versus ≤3 cm (HR 2.77; 95% CI: 1.09–7.03; p = 0.032)], ≥5 nodal metastases [versus 1–2 (HR 2.79; 95% CI: 1.63–4.78; p < 0.001)], and bilateral disease (HR 3.11; 95% CI: 1.40–6.90; p = 0.005) predicted DMR. A DMR risk score was developed that stratified risk from 6.6% (no risk factors) to 100% (≥3 risk factors) (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The risk of DMR in nodal metastatic HNcSCC increases with immunosuppression, nodal size >6 cm, ≥5 nodal metastases, and bilateral disease. A simple DMR risk score estimated prior to treatment may be clinically useful.
The efficacy and safety of using prophylactic abdominal drainage after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A randomized control trial
Authors: Arnaout Ahmad Y. , Kadoura Lama , Masri Ruqaya , Nerabani Yaman , Atli Abd Alazeez , Arnaout Khaled , Arnaout Ibrahim , Bsata Adel , Kayali Hasan , Mahli Nehad , Al‐Haj Ahmad , Ayoub Kusay , Niazi Ammar , Ghazal Ahmad ,   Aleppo University Hospital Team
Published: August 2024

Background

The use of prophylactic drainage after laparoscopic cholecystectomy has been a routine practice for many years. However, the debate surrounding using it stems from conflicting evidence regarding its potential benefits and risks.

Methods

Patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy from February 1, 2022, to November 30, 2022, at Aleppo University Hospital were enrolled according to our previously registered protocol (NCT05267860).

Results

This study included 232 patients (117 in the drainage group [DG], and 115 in the non‐drainage group [NDG]). There was no statistical difference in the patients' main characteristics, comorbidities, and laboratory findings. The duration of the surgical operation in NDG (mean = 44.92, SD = 1.85) was shorter than in DG (mean 55.14, SD = 2.14), with (p = 0.039) statistically significant, which indicates that the use of the drainage led to a prolongation of the surgical operation. The total number of complicated cases reached 22 (9.48%) cases (DG = 9 vs. NDG = 13, p = 0.348) as follows: bleeding (n = 1) (DG = 1 vs. NDG = 0; p = 0.320), bile leak with no established bile duct injury (n = 1) (DG = 1 vs. NDG = 0; p = 0.320), wound infection (n = 12) (DG = 4 vs. NDG = 8; p = 0.443), urinary tract infection (n = 3) (DG = 0 vs. NDG = 3; p = 0.079), prolonged shoulder pain (n = 2) (DG = 0 vs. NDG = 2; p = 0.152), and acute pancreatitis (n = 1) (DG = 1 vs. NDG = 0; p = 0.144).

Conclusion

Based on the results of our study, the use of prophylactic drainage was safe, but ineffective, as it did not improve the outcomes statistically significantly or worsen them, which is consistent with previous studies highlighting the need for personalized patient care in this setting.
Do school Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene facilities affect students' health status, attendance, and educational achievements? A qualitative study in Nepal
Authors: Sharma Mohan Kumar , Adhikari Ramesh , Khanal Shanti Prasad , Acharya Devaraj , van Teijlingen Edwin
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Access to safe and sufficient drinking Water, Sanitation, and good Hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools play a crucial role in preventing students from numerous Neglected Tropical Diseases, improving the learning environment in schools, and creating resilient communities living in a healthy environment. This study aims to explore the impact of combining WASH facilities on students' health status, school attendance, and educational achievements.

Methods

Four schools, two with improved and two without improved WASH facilities, were selected purposively from Dhanusha and Chitwan districts of Nepal. A total of 24 participants, 16 students, and eight teachers were also purposively selected based on the Theory of Data Saturation. The participants were interviewed face‐to‐face using study guidelines; Key Informants Interview for teachers and In‐depth Interview for students. The data were audio recorded and analyzed thematically using Dedoose 9.0.17 qualitative data management and analysis software.

Results

School WASH facilities have a significant impact on students' health and well‐being. Poor school‐WASH facilities hindered students' school attendance, particularly for menstruating girls. School without separate toilets for girls, including menstruation hygiene facilities, lack of water and soap, sanitary pad, and secure toilet's door often have higher rates of absenteeism among girls. Poor teacher and students' relationships, students' low interest in education, household chores, and participation in social customs also contribute to students' absence from school and low educational performance. It is important to note that inadequate WASH facilities affect not only students, but also teachers in the same school.

Conclusion

The lack of safe and sufficient drinking water, unimproved sanitation, and poor hygiene facilities were seen by students and teachers as reducing their health and well‐being, school attendance, and academic performance. Thus, schools need prioritize and promote the provision of improved WASH facilities for the betterment of students' health, attendance, and educational proficiency.
Trends and inequalities in neonatal mortality rate in Bangladesh: Evidence from cross‐sectional surveys
Authors: Dey Rakhi , Kundu Satyajit , Ajayi Kobi V. , Kabir Humayun , Banna Md. Hasan Al
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Given the significance of addressing neonatal mortality in pursuing the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal on child health, research focus on this area is crucial. Despite the persistent high rates of neonatal mortality rate (NMR) in Bangladesh, there remains a notable lack of robust evidence addressing inequalities in NMR in the country. Therefore, this study aims to fill the knowledge gap by comprehensively investigating inequalities in NMR in Bangladesh.

Methods

The Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) data from 2000 to 2017 were analyzed. The equity stratifiers used to measure the inequalities were wealth status, mother's education, place of residence, and subnational region. Difference (D) and population attributable fraction (PAF) were absolute measures, whereas population attributable risk (PAR) and ratio (R) were relative measures of inequality. Statistical significance was considered by estimating 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each estimate.

Results

A declining trend in NMR was found in Bangladesh, from 50.2 in 2000 to 31.9 deaths per 1000 live births in 2017. This study detected significant wealth‐driven (PAF: −20.6, 95% CI: −24.9, −16.3; PAR: −6.6, 95% CI: −7.9, −5.2), education‐related (PAF: −11.6, 95% CI: −13.4, −9.7; PAR: −3.7, 95% CI: −4.3, −3.1), and regional (PAF: −20.6, 95% CI: −27.0, −14.3; PAR: −6.6, 95% CI: −8.6, −4.6) disparities in NMR in all survey points. We also found a significant urban–rural inequality from 2000 to 2014, except in 2017. Both absolute and relative inequalities in NMR were observed; however, these inequalities decreased over time.

Conclusion

Significant variations in NMR across subgroups in Bangladesh highlight the need for comprehensive, and targeted interventions. Empowering women through improved access to economic resources and education may help address disparities in NMR in Bangladesh. Future research and policies should focus on developing strategies to address these disparities and promote equitable health outcomes for all newborns.
Investigating correlates of children's emotional well‐being: Parenting stress and child temperament
Authors: Çelebi Şevval , Acar Ibrahim H.
Published: August 2024

Children's emotional well‐being may emerge as a result of the dynamic interplay between individual factors, such as temperament and environmental factors, such as parenting stress. The current study aimed to investigate the contributions of child temperament and parenting stress to children's emotional well‐being. This study also examined the moderating role of parenting stress on the association between child temperament and children's emotional well‐being. Participants were mothers of 219 Turkish preschool children (110 girls) aged 36 months to 76 months (M = 56.95 months, SD = 11.73 months). Mothers reported on children's emotional well‐being (emotion regulation, emotion dysregulation, child aggression and child anxiety), temperament (persistence and reactivity) and parenting stress. Persistence was negatively associated with emotion dysregulation and child aggression, while reactivity was negatively associated with emotion regulation and positively associated with emotion dysregulation, aggression and anxiety. Parenting stress was negatively associated with emotion regulation and positively associated with emotion dysregulation, aggression and anxiety. Simple slope analyses revealed that high persistence coupled with low parenting stress was associated with higher emotion regulation, while low persistence paired with high parenting stress was linked to higher child aggression. The findings underline the significance of child temperament and parenting stress for children's emotional well‐being.

Highlights

Temperamental persistence is negatively associated with emotion dysregulation and aggression.

Temperamental reactivity is negatively associated with emotion regulation and positively associated with emotion dysregulation, aggression and anxiety.

Parenting stress was negatively associated with emotion regulation and positively associated with emotion dysregulation, aggression and anxiety in children.
Gynecologic health care for LGBTQIA+ people
Authors: Ferreira‐Filho Edson Santos , Lerner Theo , Soares‐Júnior José Maria , Baracat Edmund Chada
Published: August 2024

Gender relations are a set of socially determined norms and rules that assign values, characteristics, and expectations to individuals based on their biological sex. These aspects also influence the clinician–patient relationship, since it has been for a long time based on cisheteronormativity. However, this attitude alienated the LGBTQIA+ community from health services. Global and specific gynecologic care needs to be offered to the LGBTQIA+ population, which has demands for sexual and reproductive health care. In this narrative review, we bring conceptual aspects, gender identity and expression, sexual history, screening for cancer and other care to the community.
A prediction model for hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets syndrome in pre‐eclampsia with severe features
Authors: Gilboa Itamar , Gabbai Daniel , Yogev Yariv , Dominsky Omri , Berger Yuval , Kupferminc Michael , Hiersch Liran , Rimon Eli
Published: August 2024

Objective

The aim of the present study was to determine the risk factors for patients with pre‐eclampsia (PE) with severe features to develop hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome and to design a prediction score model that incorporates these risk factors.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary university‐affiliated medical center between 2011 and 2019. The study population comprised patients diagnosed with PE with severe features, divided into two groups: those with HELLP syndrome (study group) and those without (control group). A logistic regression was employed to identify independent predictors of HELLP syndrome. A predictive model for the occurrence of HELLP syndrome in the context of PE with severe features was developed using a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

Overall, 445 patients were included, of whom 69 patients were in the study group and 376 in the control group. A multivariate logistic analysis regression showed that maternal age <40 (OR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.13–5.33, P = 0.045), nulliparity (OR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.14–4.88, P = 0.042), mild hypertension (OR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.54–4.82, P = 0.019), epigastric pain (OR = 3.41, 95% CI: 1.92–7.23, P < 0.001) and placental abruption (OR = 6.38, 95% CI: 1.29–35.61, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for HELLP syndrome. A prediction score model reached a predictive performance with an area under the curve of 0.765 (95% CI: 0.709–0.821).

Conclusion

This study identified several key risk factors for developing HELLP syndrome among patients with PE with severe features and determined that a prediction score model has the potential to aid clinicians in identifying high risk patients.
Variable clinical and gynecologic characteristics associated with anatomical site of ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Girma Alodia M. , Anderson Zachary S. , Masjedi Aaron D. , Mandelbaum Rachel S. , Ouzounian Joseph G. , Matsuo Koji
Published: August 2024

Synopsis

In this nationwide cross‐sectional study in the United States, clinical and gynecologic characteristics varied across the anatomical site of ectopic pregnancy.