bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enrichment of Rare Variants of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Genes in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Correia Marques Mariana , Rubin Danielle , Shuldiner Emily G. , Datta Mallika , Schmitz Elizabeth , Gutierrez Cruz Gustavo , Patt Andrew , Bennett Elizabeth , Grom Alexei , Foell Dirk , Gattorno Marco , Bohnsack John , Yeung Rae S. M. , Prahalad Sampath , Mellins Elizabeth , Anton Jordi , Len Claudio A. , Oliveira Sheila , Woo Patricia , Ozen Seza , Deng Zuoming , Ombrello Michael J. ,   INCHARGE Consortium
Published: June 2024

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate whether there is an enrichment of rare variants in familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)‐associated genes among patients with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) with or without macrophage activation syndrome (MAS).

Methods

Targeted sequencing of HLH genes (LYST, PRF1, RAB27A, STX11, STXBP2, UNC13D) was performed in patients with sJIA from an established cohort. Sequence data from control participants were obtained in silico (database of Genotypes and Phenotypes: phs000280.v8.p2). Rare variant association testing (RVT) was performed with sequence kernel association test package. Significance was defined as P < 0.05 after 100,000 permutations.

Results

Sequencing data from 524 sJIA cases were jointly called and harmonized with exome‐derived target data from 3,000 controls. Quality control operations produced a set of 480 cases and 2,924 ancestrally matched control participants. RVT of cases and controls revealed a significant association with rare protein‐altering variants (minor allele frequency [MAF] < 0.01) of STXBP2 (P = 0.020) and ultrarare variants (MAF < 0.001) of STXBP2 (P = 0.006) and UNC13D (P = 0.046). A subanalysis of 32 cases with known MAS and 90 without revealed a significant difference in the distribution of rare UNC13D variants (P = 0.0047) between the groups. Additionally, patients with sJIA more often carried two or more HLH variants than did controls (P = 0.007), driven largely by digenic combinations involving LYST.

Conclusion

We identified an enrichment of rare HLH variants in patients with sJIA compared with controls, driven by STXBP2 and UNC13D. Biallelic variation in HLH genes was associated with sJIA, driven by LYST. Only UNC13D displayed enrichment in patients with MAS. This suggests that HLH variants may contribute to the pathophysiology of sJIA, even without MAS.

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Development and Initial Validation of the Novel Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium Activity Index
Authors: Ross Laura , Hansen Dylan , Proudman Susanna , Khanna Dinesh , Herrick Ariane L. , Stevens Wendy , Baron Murray , Nikpour Mandana ,   Australian Scleroderma Interest Group (ASIG), Canadian Scleroderma Research Group (CSRG), the Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium Activity Index Working Group
Published: June 2024

Objective

Accurate measurement of disease activity in systemic sclerosis (SSc) remains a significant clinical challenge. The Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium (SCTC) convened an Activity Index (AI) Working Group (WG) to develop a novel measure of disease activity (SCTC‐AI).

Methods

Using consensus methodology, we developed a conceptual definition of disease activity. Literature review and expert consensus generated provisional SCTC‐AI items, which were reduced by Delphi survey. Provisional items were weighted against a combined endpoint of morbidity and mortality, using time‐dependent Cox proportional hazards regression analysis of the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study (ASCS) (n = 1,254). External validation of the SCTC‐AI was performed using data collected from 1,103 Canadian Scleroderma Research Group Study participants.

Results

Disease activity in SSc was defined using consensus methodology as “aspects of disease that are reversible, or can be arrested, with time and, or effective therapy.” One‐hundred and forty‐one provisional SCTC‐AI items were generated and reduced using three rounds of Delphi survey and statistical reduction and weighting, against mortality and quality of life measures, yielding a final 24‐item index with a maximum possible score of 140. Survival analysis in an external cohort showed a graded relationship between disease activity scores and survival (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

We present a novel instrument to quantify the burden of disease activity in SSc. We have employed a rigorous consensus‐based process in combination with data‐driven methods to develop an instrument that has face, content, and criterion validity. Further work is required to fully validate and confirm the construct and discriminative validity of the SCTC‐AI.
Improvement of substrate turnover through integrating dark fermentation into existing biogas plants
Authors: Eggers Natascha , Giebner Fabian , Heinemann Dustin , Wagner Martin , Birth‐Reichert Torsten
Published: June 2024

The decarbonization potential of hydrogen offers increasing usage paths in the fight against climate change resulting in a growing demand for climate‐neutral hydrogen. This challenge is met by producing hydrogen microbially from renewable substrates as an alternative to ‘green hydrogen’ from water electrolysis. Initial results have shown that coupling dark fermentation and anaerobic digestion is not only possible but also advantageous. Specifically, by integrating dark fermentation in existing biogas plants, the overall physical efficiency of the process's substrate turnover can be increased by up to 50% through providing hydrogen in addition to biogas. The achieved test results are examined based on limit‐oriented physical efficiency evaluation to show the potential for optimization of the substrate turnover in biological concepts based on modeling. Finally an overview of a commissioned demonstration plant is given, which will provide further insights into the feasibility of the dark fermentation on an industrial scale.
Analyse von Untersuchungen über den Erhaltungszustand von Garagen und Parkdecks
Authors: Deix Karl , Arazli Susanna , Gmainer Susanne , Geißler Sara
Published: June 2024

Der Erhaltungszustand von zahlreichen, vorwiegenden in Wien befindlichen Garagen und Parkdecks aus Stahlbeton ist in den letzten Jahren von den Verfassern detailliert untersucht worden. Anhand der Untersuchungsberichte konnte ein ausführlicher Datensatz mit über 35.000 Einträgen erstellt werden, der die maßgebenden Faktoren in klassifizierter und einheitlicher Form beinhaltet. Berücksichtigt wurden dabei die Messergebnisse an den Untersuchungsstellen, wie die Betonüberdeckung, die Karbonatisierungstiefe, der Chloridgehalt, der Korrosionszustand, das Schadensbild etc., sowie die verschiedenen Bauteile, wie Deckenuntersichten, Stützenfüße, Wandsockel etc., und Funktionsbereiche, wie die Geschosse, Fahrbereiche und Parkplätze etc. Die Untersuchung dieses Datensatzes erfolgte mit den heute zur Verfügung stehenden Machine‐Learning‐Algorithmen. Die gefundenen Korrelationen wurden statistisch ausgewertet, in Diagrammen visualisiert und bewertet. Die Ergebnisse ermöglichen für Garagen repräsentative Aussagen über die Zusammenhänge zwischen den untersuchten Merkmalen und den Schadensmechanismen. Es konnten sowohl konstruktive Regeln überprüft, als auch Grenzwerte, wie jene über den schadenauslösenden Chloridgehalt, evaluiert werden. Auch konnten kritische Bauteile und Stellen erkannt werden und angegeben werden, welche Gefährdungspotenziale aufgrund optischer Einstufung zu erwarten sind. Dadurch kann auch der Untersuchungsaufwand zielgenauer festgelegt werden.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion reporting in European Union companies: The role of female directors and the European regulatory framework
Authors: García‐Sánchez Isabel‐María , Marín‐Hernández Salvador , Ortiz‐Martínez Esther , Aibar‐Guzmán Beatriz
Published: June 2024

Equality, equity, and nondiscrimination are core human rights and prerequisites for peace, prosperity, and sustainability that require the commitment of all actors. They have received considerable attention from the European Union, leading to the development of a regulatory framework aimed at promoting gender diversity and the disclosure of information on diversity, equity, and inclusion by European companies. Considering the regulatory pressure from the institutional environment of the European Union that characterizes the period 2011–2020, this study aims to analyze the role played by female directors in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion disclosures of 189 large European companies. Based on international guidelines and recommendations as well as European legislation, we developed a transparency score that assesses the relevance, standardization, reliability, and completeness of the diversity, equity, and inclusion information disclosed by these companies. Using a Tobit regression approach for panel data, we show that board diversity has a positive effect on the information reported by European companies, although this effect is only associated with having at least three female directors or gender‐balanced boards. Moreover, the European institutional context in force since 2014 favors corporate transparency on equality, equity, and inclusiveness practices of European companies and encourages the consideration of the views of minority female directors. The results can improve the understanding of gender equality and corporate transparency regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion decisions made by companies in light of the advent of new mandatory requirements within the EU and the extension of their scope to a wider range of companies.
Disitamab vedotin, a HER2‐directed antibody‐drug conjugate, in patients with HER2‐overexpression and HER2‐low advanced breast cancer: a phase I/Ib study
Authors: Wang Jiayu , Liu Yunjiang , Zhang Qingyuan , Li Wei , Feng Jifeng , Wang Xiaojia , Fang Jianmin , Han Yiqun , Xu Binghe
Published: June 2024

Background

Disitamab vedotin (DV; RC48‐ADC) is an antibody‐drug conjugate comprising a human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐directed antibody, linker and monomethyl auristatin E. Preclinical studies have shown that DV demonstrated potent antitumor activity in preclinical models of breast, gastric, and ovarian cancers with different levels of HER2 expression. In this pooled analysis, we report the safety and efficacy of DV in patients with HER2‐overexpression and HER2‐low advanced breast cancer (ABC).

Methods

In the phase I dose‐escalation study (C001 CANCER), HER2‐overexpression ABC patients received DV at doses of 0.5‐2.5 mg/kg once every two weeks (Q2W) until unacceptable toxicity or progressive disease. The dose range, safety, and pharmacokinetics (PK) were determined. The phase Ib dose‐range and expansion study (C003 CANCER) enrolled two cohorts: HER2‐overexpression ABC patients receiving DV at doses of 1.5‐2.5 mg/kg Q2W, with the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) determined, and HER2‐low ABC patients receiving DV at doses of 2.0 mg/kg Q2W to explore the efficacy and safety of DV in HER2‐low ABC.

Results

Twenty‐four patients with HER2‐overexpression ABC in C001 CANCER, 46 patients with HER2‐overexpression ABC and 66 patients with HER2‐low ABC in C003 CANCER were enrolled. At 2.0 mg/kg RP2D Q2W, the confirmed objective response rates were 42.9% (9/21; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 21.8%‐66.0%) and 33.3% (22/66; 95% CI: 22.2%‐46.0%), with median progression‐free survival (PFS) of 5.7 months (95% CI: 5.3‐8.4 months) and 5.1 months (95% CI: 4.1‐6.6 months) for HER2‐overexpression and HER2‐low ABC, respectively. Common (≥5%) grade 3 or higher treatment‐emergent adverse events included neutrophil count decreased (17.6%), gamma‐glutamyl transferase increased (13.2%), asthenia (11.0%), white blood cell count decreased (9.6%), peripheral neuropathy such as hypoesthesia (5.9%) and neurotoxicity (0.7%), and pain (5.9%).

Conclusion

DV demonstrated promising efficacy in HER2‐overexpression and HER2‐low ABC, with a favorable safety profile at 2.0 mg/kg Q2W.
Radiomics models to predict bone marrow metastasis of neuroblastoma using CT
Authors: Chen Xiong , Chen Qinchang , Liu Yuanfang , Qiu Ya , Lv Lin , Zhang Zhengtao , Yin Xuntao , Shu Fangpeng
Published: June 2024

Background

Bone marrow is the leading site for metastasis from neuroblastoma and affects the prognosis of patients with neuroblastoma. However, the accurate diagnosis of bone marrow metastasis is limited by the high spatial and temporal heterogeneity of neuroblastoma. Radiomics analysis has been applied in various cancers to build accurate diagnostic models but has not yet been applied to bone marrow metastasis of neuroblastoma.

Methods

We retrospectively collected information from 187 patients pathologically diagnosed with neuroblastoma and divided them into training and validation sets in a ratio of 7:3. A total of 2632 radiomics features were retrieved from venous and arterial phases of contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT), and nine machine learning approaches were used to build radiomics models, including multilayer perceptron (MLP), extreme gradient boosting, and random forest. We also constructed radiomics‐clinical models that combined radiomics features with clinical predictors such as age, gender, ascites, and lymph gland metastasis. The performance of the models was evaluated with receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves, calibration curves, and risk decile plots.

Results

The MLP radiomics model yielded an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.97 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.95–0.99) on the training set and 0.90 (95% CI: 0.82–0.95) on the validation set. The radiomics‐clinical model using an MLP yielded an AUC of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.89–0.96) on the training set and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.85–0.97) on the validation set.

Conclusions

MLP‐based radiomics and radiomics‐clinical models can precisely predict bone marrow metastasis in patients with neuroblastoma.
Effect of enzymatic processing on the physicochemical properties of wheat gluten protein enzymatic products
Authors: Wei Yanmei , Ren Qiuyan , Zhang Yuting , Li Pei , Li Ku , Liu Xiangjun , Xiao Shensheng , Wang Xuedong , Wu Yan
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives

Wheat gluten is a high‐quality, low‐priced, and nutritious plant protein. Applications of wheat gluten protein could be expanded by improving its solubility through enzymatic modifications. Herein, we investigated the effect of proteolytic processing on the physicochemical properties of wheat gluten protein.

Findings

The degree of hydrolysis, trichloroacetic acid‐soluble nitrogen (TCA‐SN), and peptidyl nitrogen content of the enzymatic digestion products increased, and the TCA‐SN content exceeded 60% in all cases. The ζ‐potentials of all products after enzymatic digestion were significantly decreased and were negative. Three enzymatic solutions increased the stability of the solution system and the surface hydrophobicity of the enzymatic products to different degrees. The products after enzymatic digestion by alkaline protease had better antioxidant capacity.

Conclusions

This study provides theoretical support for expanding the applications for wheat protein to achieve the added value of wheat products and enhance the utilization rate of these readily available raw materials.

Significance and Novelty

This study investigates the dual enzyme stepwise enzymatic hydrolysis of wheat gluten protein by alkaline protease and neutral protease, which increases the water‐soluble protein content of wheat gluten protein. The resulting hydrolysate has a high peptide nitrogen content.
Tetanus management in a high‐resource emergency department: A case report
Authors: Goubrial Diana , Roman Cristina , Ashok Aadith , Mitra Biswadev
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Any patient presenting with trismus should have tetanus considered as a differential diagnosis. Early recognition, timely treatment and supportive care can improve patient outcomes. Treatment with tetanus immunoglobulin to neutralize the toxin, antimicrobials to treat the infection and sedation in the intensive care unit are key therapeutic options.
Rapidly progressing pediatric Lupus with Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage and CNS involvement
Authors: Vahedi Mahdieh , Nejad Shahrokh Abadi Reza , Malek Abdolreza , Toosi Farrokh Seilanian , Naseri Maryam , Hashemi Narges
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) can have an insidious onset and a fatal prognosis in children. Patients presenting without typical signs of SLE should undergo further evaluation if they are not responding to the initial diagnosis and treatment. This is especially true for patients with rapidly progressing symptoms and deterioration in spite of treatment.

Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disorder with various organ involvement pulmonary involvement in the course of this disorder is a rare yet potentially life‐threatening complication. In this case report we highlight the findings of a 16‐year‐old girl acutely and initially presenting with cough and fever, eventually complicating to diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and gradual loss of consciousness. Although the patient was started on immunosuppressive treatment after the diagnosis of lupus, based on renal and hematological impairment, was made and initially responded, she eventually deteriorated.
Relapsing nephrotic syndrome with acute renal failure following a unique episode of multiple bee stings: A case report
Authors: Méndez Gonzalo P. , Jobet Josefina , Bravo Ignacia , Enos Daniel , Hernández Mariel Jose
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

The commonest renal involvement after bee stings is acute kidney injury due to rhabdomyolysis. Nephrotic syndrome combined with AKI is unusual complication of Hymenoptera stings. We diagnosed a minimal change disease and six‐year follow up relapses.
Electrochemical Decarboxylative Cross‐Coupling with Nucleophiles
Authors: Yu Pingping , Huang Xuejin , Wang Dake , Yi Hong , Song Chunlan , Li Jiakun
Published: June 2024

Decarboxylative cross‐coupling reactions are powerful tools for carbon‐heteroatom bonds formation, but typically require pre‐activated carboxylic acids as substrates or heteroelectrophiles as functional groups. Herein, we present an electrochemical decarboxylative cross‐coupling of carboxylic acids with structurally diverse fluorine, alcohol, H2O, acid, and amine as nucleophiles. This strategy takes advantage of the ready availability of these building blocks from commercial libraries, as well as the mild and oxidant‐free conditions provided by electrochemical system. This reaction demonstrates good functional‐group tolerance and its utility in late‐stage functionalization.
Uncatalyzed Diboron Activation by a Strained Hydrocarbon: Experimental and Theoretical Study of [1.1.1]Propellane Diborylation
Authors: Silvi Emanuele , Wei Wen‐Jie , Johansson Magnus J. , Himo Fahmi , Mendoza Abraham
Published: June 2024

The synthesis of strained carbocyclic building blocks is relevant for Medicinal Chemistry, and methylenecyclobutanes are particularly challenging with current synthetic technology. Careful inspection of the reactivity of [1.1.1]propellane and diboron reagents has revealed that bis(catecholato)diboron (B2cat2) can produce a bis(borylated) methylenecyclobutane in a few minutes at room temperature. This reaction constitutes the first example of B−B bond activation by a special apolar hydrocarbon and also the first time that propellane is electrophilically activated by boron. Mechanistic studies including in situ NMR kinetics and DFT calculations demonstrate that the diboron moiety can be directly activated through coordination with the inverted sigma bond of propellane, and reveal that DMF is involved in the stabilization of diboronate ylide intermediates rather than the activation of the B−B bond. These results enable new possibilities for both diboron and propellane chemistry, and for further developments in the synthesis of methylenecyclobutanes based on propellane strain release.
Role of Thiamine Supplementation in the Treatment of Chronic Heart Failure: An Updated Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: He Shuai , Wang Shasha , Xu Tingli , Wang Shuwei , Qi Minfang , Chen Qingqing , Lin Lu , Wu Huijuan , Gan Pengcheng
Published: June 2024

Background

Chronic heart failure (CHF) has always posed a significant threat to human survival and health. The efficacy of thiamine supplementation in CHF patients remains uncertain.

Hypothesis

Receiving supplementary thiamine may not confer benefits to patients with CHF.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Web of Science databases up until May 2023 to identify articles investigating the effects of thiamine supplementation in CHF patients. Predefined criteria were utilized for selecting data on study characteristics and results.

Results

Seven randomized, double‐blind, controlled trials (five parallel trials and two crossover trials) involving a total of 274 patients were enrolled. The results of the meta‐analysis pooling these studies did not reveal any significant effect of thiamine treatment compared with placebo on left ventricular ejection fraction (WMD = 1.653%, 95% CI:  −1.098 to 4.405, p = 0.239, I2 = 61.8%), left ventricular end‐diastolic volume (WMD = −6.831 mL, 95% CI:  −26.367 to 12.704, p = 0.493, I2 = 0.0%), 6‐min walking test (WMD = 16.526 m, 95% CI:  −36.582 to 69.634, p = 0.542, I2 = 66.3%), N‐terminal pro‐B type natriuretic peptide (WMD = 258.150 pg/mL, 95% CI:  −236.406 to 752.707, p = 0.306, I2 = 21.6%), or New York Heart Association class (WMD = −0.223, 95% CI:  −0.781 to 0.335, p = 0.434, I2 = 87.1%). However, it effectively improved the status of thiamine deficiency (TD).

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis indicates that thiamine supplementation does not have a direct therapeutic effect on CHF, except for correcting TD.
Roadmap for the next generation of Children’s Oncology Group rhabdomyosarcoma trials
Authors: Metts Jonathan L. , Aye Jamie M. , Crane Jacquelyn N. , Oberoi Sapna , Balis Frank M. , Bhatia Smita , Bona Kira , Carleton Bruce , Dasgupta Roshni , Dela Cruz Filemon S. , Greenzang Katie A. , Kaufman Jonathan L. , Linardic Corinne M. , Parsons Susan K. , Robertson‐Tessi Mark , Rudzinski Erin R. , Soragni Alice , Stewart Elizabeth , Weigel Brenda J. , Wolden Suzanne L. , Weiss Aaron R. , Venkatramani Rajkumar , Heske Christine M.
Published: June 2024

Clinical trials conducted by the Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) Study Group and the Children's Oncology Group have been pivotal to establishing current standards for diagnosis and therapy for RMS. Recent advancements in understanding the biology and clinical behavior of RMS have led to more nuanced approaches to diagnosis, risk stratification, and treatment. The complexities introduced by these advancements, coupled with the rarity of RMS, pose challenges to conducting large‐scale phase 3 clinical trials to evaluate new treatment strategies for RMS. Given these challenges, systematic planning of future clinical trials in RMS is paramount to address pertinent questions regarding the therapeutic efficacy of drugs, biomarkers of response, treatment‐related toxicity, and patient quality of life. Herein, the authors outline the proposed strategic approach of the Children's Oncology Group Soft Tissue Sarcoma Committee to the next generation of RMS clinical trials, focusing on five themes: improved novel agent identification and preclinical to clinical translation, more efficient trial development and implementation, expanded opportunities for knowledge generation during trials, therapeutic toxicity reduction and quality of life, and patient engagement.
European flow cytometry quality assurance guidelines for the diagnosis of primary immune deficiencies and assessment of immune reconstitution following B cell depletion therapies and transplantation
Authors: Kelleher Peter , Greathead Louise , Whitby Liam , Brando Bruno ,   UK NEQAS Leucocyte Immunophenotyping Steering Committee, Barnett David , Bloxham David , deTute Ruth , Dunlop Alan , Farren Timothy , Francis Sebastian , Payne Daniel , Scott Stuart , Snowden John A. , Sorour Youssef , Stansfield Emma , Virgo Paul , Whitby Alison
Published: June 2024

Over the last 15 years activity of diagnostic flow cytometry services have evolved from monitoring of CD4 T cell subsets in HIV‐1 infection to screening for primary and secondary immune deficiencies syndromes and assessment of immune constitution following B cell depleting therapy and transplantation. Changes in laboratory activity in high income countries have been driven by initiation of anti‐retroviral therapy (ART) in HIV‐1 regardless of CD4 T cell counts, increasing recognition of primary immune deficiency syndromes and the wider application of B cell depleting therapy and transplantation in clinical practice. Laboratories should use their experience in standardization and quality assurance of CD4 T cell counting in HIV‐1 infection to provide immune monitoring services to patients with primary and secondary immune deficiencies. Assessment of immune reconstitution post B cell depleting agents and transplantation can also draw on the expertise acquired by flow cytometry laboratories for detection of CD34 stem cell and assessment of MRD in hematological malignancies. This guideline provides recommendations for clinical laboratories on providing flow cytometry services in screening for immune deficiencies and its emerging role immune reconstitution after B cell targeting therapies and transplantation.
Enhancing the Connection Between Basic and Applied Research in Eating Disorders: Steps Toward More Effective Translation
Authors: Hildebrandt Britny A. , Goldschmidt Andrea B.
Published: June 2024

Translational research applies laboratory‐generated scientific discoveries to real‐world practice with the goal of potentiating more rapid solutions to health challenges. In 2023, the authors of this editorial (Hildebrandt and Goldschmidt) aimed to develop a special issue for the International Journal of Eating Disorders (IJED) focusing on translational eating disorder research. The goal for this issue was to begin closing the gap between basic and applied research by soliciting articles that improve our understanding of mechanisms that cause or maintain eating disorders, which could result in more robust research advances and dissemination of information to the public. Further goals for the issue included exposing IJED's readership to a wide range of translational research and inspiring new collaborative efforts. While strong submissions were received, challenges were encountered in soliciting enough articles, potentially reflecting long‐standing communication barriers between basic and clinical scientists within the eating disorders field. In this editorial, we highlight work included in the special section, identify potential barriers in translational eating disorder research, and offer a multipronged approach to support more rapid progress across the translational spectrum. By improving how our field approaches translational research, we can promote better outcomes for those with or at risk for eating disorders.
Regulating the Crystal Facet Differences of In2O3 via Different Precipitants to Affect Methanol Selectivity
Authors: Li Pingping , Guan Linjie , Zhang Qicheng , Zou Lian , Ding Maofeng , Zhang Long , Xu Danyun , Zhu Yuanzhi , Xie Delong
Published: June 2024

Under the background of “carbon peak and carbon neutrality”, the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide (CO2) to methanol (CH3OH) represents a crucial pathway for promoting green and sustainable development. In2O3 has gained attention as a promising material for CH3OH production from CO2 due to its controllable properties including morphologies, particle sizes and oxygen vacancies, along with its excellent selectivity in CO2 hydrogenation reactions. Herein, by employing various precursors, three distinct indium trioxide (In2O3) catalysts with varied morphologies and predominantly exposed crystal facets were synthesized. It is found that the In2O3 catalyst prepared using ammonia monohydrate (NH3⋅H2O) as a precipitator exhibits a primarily exposed (211) crystal facet. This catalyst demonstrates a CO2 conversion rate of 4.7 %, a selectivity of 55 %towards CH3OH, and a space velocity of 8000 ml gcat.−1 h−1, under reaction conditions of 280 °C and 3 MPa. The (211) crystal face of In2O3 is conducive to the generation of oxygen vacancies which shows exceptional active capabilities for CO2, and thus showing outstanding advantages in the selectivity towards CH3OH. The results underscore the importance of crystal facet engineering in tailoring the properties of catalysts for efficient CO2 hydrogenation to CH3OH.
On the Role of the Solvent in the Synthesis of Spirocycles from Alkyne Cations Catalyzed by Triflic Acid: A DFT Study
Authors: de Cózar Abel , Arrieta Ana , Cossío Fernando P.
Published: June 2024

The relevance of solvent molecules in the reactivity of alkyne cations has been analyzed computationally. Analysis of the possible reaction mechanisms towards competitive cyclization and elimination processes including a molecule of solvent shows the crucial role of the solvent. In dichloromethane there are no relevant discrete solvent‐cation interactions that could determine the outcome and a strong intramolecular π‐cation interaction favors the [5‐exo‐dig] cyclization route. On the other hand, in tetrahydrofuran or toluene solvated environments, the existence of solvent‐cation interaction via formation of a dative C−O bond or the formation of a highly stabilized triflate‐cation complex, respectively, modifies the energy profile, thus promoting the elimination pathway.
The electrochemical detection of glyphosate in aqueous environments using modified carbon nitride/ZIF67 nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Qi , Liu Yao , Shu Ao‐Lan , Chen Xing
Published: June 2024

A novel type of nanocomposite‐modified electrodes, synthesized from ZIF67 and mesoporous carbon nitride (CN) featuring a carbonyl heterocyclic ring, were meticulously fabricated via an alkali‐mediated method. This innovative approach led to the construction of high‐performance electrochemical sensors. Utilizing differential pulse voltammetry, these sensors demonstrated significant potential for the precise detection of glyphosate in various aqueous environments. The detection mechanism of this sensor operates through the complexation reaction between Co2+ and glyphosate, resulting in a decrease in the response current. The fabricated material was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction techniques, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to verify its morphology and structure. The results demonstrated that the sensor exhibited high sensitivity, with a detection limit of 0.04 pg/L and a linear range from 10−12–10−5 g/L, showcasing good selectivity for glyphosate. In tests evaluating the sensor's effectiveness for detecting glyphosate in real water samples, recovery rates ranged from 97 %–106 %, further attesting to its high accuracy and practicality.
A Novel Phase Change Absorbent for CO2 Capture with Low Viscosity and Effective Absorption–Desorption Properties
Authors: Han Jianchao , Qiu Zihan , Chen Yuyan , Gui Xia , Chen Xiao
Published: June 2024

Excessive carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions can lead to environmental problems, and the use of phase change absorbents for CO2 capture has received much attention due to their excellent absorption and desorption properties. Herein, a novel liquid–liquid phase change absorbent consisting of N‐aminoethylpiperazine (AEP), diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (DEGDME), and H2O is utilized. Under the optimal absorption conditions, the absorption capacity is 1.23 mol CO2·mol−1 amine. The rich‐phase viscosity of the AEP/DEGDME/H2O solution is only 6.2 mPa s−1, and the rich phase‐to‐volume ratio is 52.7%, which is suitable for industrial applications. After five cycles of absorption–desorption experiments, the cyclic capacity reaches 0.62 mol CO2·mol−1 amine. However, it should be noted that this leads to an increase in the viscosity of the solution with time. The 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance characterization is used to analyze the material distribution and phase separation mechanism, and it is found that during the absorption process, the carbamate and carbonate products generated by the reaction of the amino group in the AEP with CO2 are mainly located in the rich phase, while the DEGDME and H2O mainly remain in the lean phase. In the desorption process, most of the absorbed products are decomposed, and the regeneration efficiency is 66.8%. Through the regeneration energy consumption experiment, when the regeneration efficiency is 56%–67%, the total regeneration energy consumption is 2.71–2.89 GJ t−1 CO2, which is 0.91–1.09 GJ t−1 CO2 lower than that of the regeneration efficiency of 30 wt% MEA solution at 63%, which indicates that this absorbent has certain energy‐saving advantages.
In Situ Synthesis of Self‐Floating Janus Fe3O4@IF Evaporator for Solar‐Driven Interfacial Evaporation
Authors: Kong Lingxue , Jia Ye , Zeng Ke , Wang Yuping , Zhang Tengdi , Liu Anmin , Gao Liguo , Ma Tingli
Published: June 2024

Solar‐driven interfacial evaporation is one of the most promising technologies to address global freshwater shortages. Compared with the integrated structure, monolithic system with asymmetric wettability can be used alone to reduce the structural complexity without sacrificing the localized management of heat. Herein, a monolithic structure of Janus Fe3O4@IF evaporator with asymmetric wettability has been fabricated via a simple in situ hydrothermal method. The low‐cost Janus Fe3O4@IF evaporator can be self‐floating with a sizable surface area, high porosity, and low density, which presents excellent light absorption features of 98.1% within a broadband wavelength range of 200–2500 nm. Due to the strong capillarity action and Janus wettability, the evaporation is efficient (1.64 kg m−2 h−1) and stable even treating with highly concentrated brine of 20 wt%. This work demonstrates an effective strategy for achieving high‐performance solar‐driven interfacial evaporation and superior salt rejection capability, which can be potentially utilized in seawater desalination.
Multidisciplinary approach to obstetric disseminated intravascular coagulopathy management in low‐income country: A survey
Authors: Nwagha Theresa U. , Okoye Helen C. , Ugwu Angela O. , Duru Augustine N. , Menuba Ifeanyi E. , Ugwu Emmanuel O. , Ezebialu Ifeanyichukwu U. , Ugwu Aloysius O. , Eze Stephen C.
Published: June 2024

Objective

To assess the uptake of a multidisciplinary team approach in obstetric disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) management in a low‐ to middle‐income country.

Methods

A cross‐sectional observational study, in which a semi‐structured and pre‐tested questionnaire was used to collect data on the uptake by Nigerian obstetricians of the multidisciplinary team approach to obstetric DIC management.

Results

A total of 171 obstetricians responded, 82 (48.0%) were consultants and 89 (52.0%) were specialist registrars. Most (165; 96.5%) practiced in tertiary healthcare facilities and the multidisciplinary team approach was the most preferred (162; 94.7%) management approach. In all, 142 (83.0%) supported the invitation of hematologists always in the management whereas 115 (67.3%) participants recommended that involvement of specialists in the treatment should be when clinical presentation was suggestive of DIC. No significant association existed between years of obstetric practice and adoption of a multidisciplinary team‐based approach (χ2 = 9.590; P = 0.252).

Conclusion

A multidisciplinary approach is widely adopted in the management of obstetric DIC, with hematologists being a key member of the team.
Impact of oxidative stress induced by heavy metals on ovarian function
Authors: Xiao Chengqi , Lai Dongmei
Published: June 2024

As a crucial organ of the female reproductive system, the ovary has both reproductive and endocrine functions. Oxidative stress refers to an increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play a role in the normal physiological activity of the ovary. However, excessive ROS can cause damage to the ovary. With the advancement of human industrial activities, heavy metal pollution has become increasingly severe. Heavy metals cause oxidative stress through both direct and indirect mechanisms, leading to changes in signal transduction pathways that damage the ovaries. This review aims to outline the adverse effects of oxidative stress on the ovaries triggered by heavy metals such as copper, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead. The detrimental effects of heavy metals on ovaries include follicular atresia and decreased estrogen production in experimental animals, and they also cause premature ovarian insufficiency in women. Additionally, this review discusses the role of antioxidants, provides some treatment methods, summarizes the limitations of current research, and offers perspectives for future research directions.
Adult cardiomyocytes‐derived EVs for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis
Authors: Prieto‐Vila Marta , Yoshioka Yusuke , Kuriyama Naoya , Okamura Akihiko , Yamamoto Yusuke , Muranaka Asao , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: June 2024

Cardiac fibrosis is a common pathological feature of cardiovascular diseases that arises from the hyperactivation of fibroblasts and excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, leading to impaired cardiac function and potentially heart failure or arrhythmia. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by cardiomyocytes (CMs) regulate various physiological functions essential for myocardial homeostasis, which are disrupted in cardiac disease. Therefore, healthy CM‐derived EVs represent a promising cell‐free therapy for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis.

To this end, we optimized the culture conditions of human adult CMs to obtain a large yield of EVs without compromising cellular integrity by using a defined combination of small molecules. EVs were isolated by ultracentrifugation, and their characteristics were analysed. Finally, their effect on fibrosis was tested.

Treatment of TGFβ‐activated human cardiac fibroblasts with EVs derived from CMs using our culture system resulted in a decrease in fibroblast activation markers and ECM accumulation. The rescued phenotype was associated with specific EV cargo, including multiple myocyte‐specific and antifibrotic microRNAs, although their effect individually was not as effective as the EV treatment. Notably, pathway analysis showed that EV treatment reverted the transcription of activated fibroblasts and decreased several signalling pathways, including MAPK, mTOR, JAK/STAT, TGFβ, and PI3K/Akt, all of which are involved in fibrosis development. Intracardiac injection of CM‐derived EVs in an animal model of cardiac fibrosis reduced fibrotic area and increased angiogenesis, which correlated with improved cardiac function.

These findings suggest that EVs derived from human adult CMs may offer a targeted and effective treatment for cardiac fibrosis, owing to their antifibrotic properties and the specificity of cargo.
Quality changes due to refrigerated storage in a traditional dry‐cured pork belly salted with glasswort or KCl as partial substitutes for NaCl
Authors: Ferreira Iasmin , Caro Irma , Mateo Javier , Kasaiyan Alireza , Leite Ana , Vasconcelos Lia , Rodrigues Sandra , Teixeira Alfredo
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Glasswort represents a novel alternative to KCl for replacing sodium in meat products. To evaluate the effects of Na reduction on the quality changes of a traditional dry cured belly due to storage, fresh bellies were dry‐salted with 2% NaCl (BCON), with 2% of a mixture containing 50% NaCl and 50% KCl (BKCl) or with 1% of a mixture of 90% NaCl and 10% powdered glasswort (BGW), dry‐cured, sliced, vacuum packaged and stored under refrigeration for 60 days.

RESULTS

The BKCl and BGW bellies were lower in sodium by one‐third to one‐half compared to BCON (with 1.6 g Na/100 g). Neither BKCl, nor BGW significantly differed from BCON in free fatty acids (FFA) before and after storage, whereas BGW showed almost twice as much 2‐methylbutanal content as BCON. All bellies showed microbiological stability during storage. Micrococcaceae was the most abundant microbial group with values of 105 to 106 colony‐forming units g−1. The BGW presented higher Micrococcaceae counts (approximately one log unit) but lower microbial biodiversity than BCON.

CONCLUSION

The two alternative dry salting methods reduced the sodium content in bellies, at the same time as ensuring chemical and microbiological stability during refrigerated vacuum storage. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Pecan (Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch) nuts as an emerging source of protein: extraction, physicochemical and functional properties
Authors: Cao Jiarui , Shi Tingting , Wang Yaosong , Wang Jiahong , Cao Fuliang , Yu Pengfei , Su Erzheng
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The increasing demand for sustainable alternatives to traditional protein sources, driven by population growth, underscores the importance of protein in a healthy diet. Pecan (Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch) nuts are currently underutilized as plant‐based proteins but hold great potential in the food industry. However, there is insufficient information available on pecan protein, particularly its protein fractions. This study aimed to explore the physicochemical and functional properties of protein isolate and the main protein fraction glutelin extracted from pecan nuts.

RESULTS

The results revealed that glutelin (820.67 ± 69.42 g kg−1) had a higher crude protein content compared to the protein isolate (618.43 ± 27.35 g kg−1), while both proteins exhibited amino acid profiles sufficient for adult requirements. The isoelectric points of protein isolate and glutelin were determined to be pH 4.0 and pH 5.0, respectively. The denaturation temperature of the protein isolate (90.23 °C) was higher than that of glutelin (87.43 °C), indicating a more organized and stable conformation. This is further supported by the fact that the protein isolate had a more stable main secondary structure than glutelin. Both proteins demonstrated improved solubility, emulsifying, and foaming properties at pH levels deviating from their isoelectric points in U‐shaped curves. Compared to the protein isolate, glutelin displayed superior water and oil absorption capacity along with enhanced gelling ability.

CONCLUSION

The protein isolate and glutelin from pecan nuts exhibited improved stability and competitive functional properties, respectively. The appropriate utilization of these two proteins will support their potential as natural ingredients in various food systems. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Determination of six short‐chain fatty acids in rat feces using headspace solid‐phase dynamic extraction coupled with GC‐MS
Authors: Xing Lihua , Zhang Qiang , Liu Juan , Yu Nianjun , Jia Yiqun
Published: June 2024

Short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are organic acids with carbon atoms less than six, released through fermentation products by intestinal microbiome, having multiple physiological activities. Considering weak acidity and high volatility, derivatization or liquid–liquid extraction is essential, which is time consuming. Headspace‐solid‐phase dynamic extraction (HS‐SPDE) coupled with gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry is automated and effortless to determine SCFAs in rat feces. The extraction procedure is performed by aspirating and discharging the headspace cyclically through a steel needle, coated with an inner polyethylene glycol sorbent. The key parameters of SPDE were optimized including coating type, incubation time and temperature, and number of extraction strokes. Besides, salting‐out was conducted. Then, a method by HS‐SPDE‐GC‐MS was established and validated. It only took 3‐min incubation time, 4.5 min extraction time, and 13 min chromatographic separation in a run. The recovery, linearity, limit of quantification, and stability were evaluated. Then, the proposed method was applied to analyze rat feces including 18 rats with liver injury and 23 normal controls. Mann–Whitney U test indicated that the concentrations of six SCFAs in normal rat feces were higher than those with liver injury. This method provides a choice for fast, solvent‐free, automated, and high‐throughput analysis of SCFAs.
Metabolomics for dental caries diagnosis: Past, present, and future
Authors: Ahmad Paras , Moussa Dina G. , Siqueira Walter L.
Published: June 2024

Dental caries, a prevalent global infectious condition affecting over 95% of adults, remains elusive in its precise etiology. Addressing the complex dynamics of caries demands a thorough exploration of taxonomic, potential, active, and encoded functions within the oral ecosystem. Metabolomic profiling emerges as a crucial tool, offering immediate insights into microecosystem physiology and linking directly to the phenotype. Identified metabolites, indicative of caries status, play a pivotal role in unraveling the metabolic processes underlying the disease. Despite challenges in metabolite variability, the use of metabolomics, particularly via mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, holds promise in caries research. This review comprehensively examines metabolomics in caries prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, highlighting distinct metabolite expression patterns and their associations with disease‐related bacterial communities. Pioneering in approach, it integrates singular and combinatory metabolomics methodologies, diverse biofluids, and study designs, critically evaluating prior limitations while offering expert insights for future investigations. By synthesizing existing knowledge, this review significantly advances our comprehension of caries, providing a foundation for improved prevention and treatment strategies.
Treatment of lumbar intervertebral disc herniation using open spinal endoscopy: Techniques and clinical outcomes
Authors: Yu Bing , Zheng Jun
Published: June 2024

Background

The aims of this paper are to introduce Open spinal endoscopy (OSE), which is a new single hole split‐type spinal endoscopic technique that can achieve adequate decompression and lumbar discectomy with preservation of the facet joints and posterior ligamentous complex, and to determine whether it can be widely performed.

Methods

Data from 58 patients who were treated for lumbar disc herniation using the open spinal endoscopic technique at Anhui No. 2 Provincial People's Hospital between July, 2021 and February, 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Pain in the lower back and legs was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS) score, neurologic status by the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, and degree of disability by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). These evaluations were performed on the day before surgery and at the final postoperative follow‐up. Surgical outcomes were assessed using the modified MacNab criteria. The method described by Dohzono and Matsumura was used to evaluate facet joint preservation.

Results

After surgery, the VAS score decreased from 8.4 ± 3.1 to 0.8 ± 0.8 (p < 0.005) for leg pain and from 5.4 ± 2.9 to 1.8 ± 1.5 (p < 0.05) for back pain. The JOA score improved from 14.7 ± 8.2 to 23.7 ± 4.8 (p < 0.005). The average rate of improvement in the JOA score was 74.7% ± 34.7%. The ODI decreased from 46.1 ± 5.8 to 14.6 ± 7.0 (p < 0.005). The final clinical outcome was excellent in 47 patients (81.0%), good in 10 (17.3%), and fair in one (1.7%). No patient had a poor final outcome. There were few operative complications. Dural injury occurred during use of the endoscope in two patients. The facet joint was preserved in 83.5% ± 7.4% of cases on the approach side and in 94.5% ± 7.3% on the contralateral side.

Conclusions

OSE is a single hole split‐type endoscopic technology. Compared with that for other minimally invasive spinal endoscopic techniques, the learning curve is less steep and easier to master. Open spinal endoscopy can achieve adequate decompression and lumbar discectomy with preservation of the facet joints and posterior ligamentous complex and can be performed widely.