bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel contact force sensing pulsed field ablation catheter in a porcine model
Authors: Hua Juan , Xiong Qinmei , Kong Qiling , Xiong Liang , Huang Qianghui , Hu Jinzhu , Li Juxiang , Hu Jianxin , Si Peng , Zhou Tuo , Chen Qi
Published: January 2024

Background

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) has emerged as a novel non‐thermal modality with highly myocardium‐specific. However, the PFA catheter based on contact force (CF)‐sensing has not been reported. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel CF‐sensing PFA catheter.

Methods

First, different CF (5, 15, 25, and 35 g) of the novel PFA catheter were evaluated on lesion dimensions during ablation on right and left ventricle in two pigs. Next, this catheter was further evaluated on four typical sites of superior vena cava (SVC), cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI), right superior pulmonary vein (RSPV), and right inferior pulmonary vein (RIPV) for atrial ablation in another six pigs. Electrical isolation was evaluated immediately after ablation and 30‐day survival. Chronic lesions were assessed via histopathology after euthanasia. Acute and chronic safety outcomes were observed peri‐ and post‐procedurally.

Results

In ventricular ablation, increased CF from 5 to 15 g produced significantly greater lesion depth but nonsignificant increases from 15 to 35 g. In atrial ablation, the novel CF‐sensing PFA deliveries produced an acute attenuation of local electrograms and formation of a continuous line of block in all 6 pigs. The ablation line remained sustained blockage at the 30‐day survival period. The CF of SVC, CTI, RSPV, and RIPV was 9.4 ± 1.5, 14.5 ± 3.2, 17.2 ± 2.6, and 13.4 ± 2.8 g, respectively. Moreover, no evidence of damage to esophagus or phrenic nerve was observed.

Conclusion

The novel CF‐sensing PFA catheter potentiated efficient, safe, and durable ablation, without causing damage to the esophagus or phrenic nerve.
Predictors of pacemaker requirement in patients with implantable loop recorder and unexplained syncope: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zangiabadian Moein , Soltani Kiarash , Gholinejad Yasaman , Yahya Reyhane , Bastami Shayan , Akbarzadeh Mohammad Ali , Sharifian Ardestani Mohammad , Aletaha Azadeh
Published: January 2024

Identifying the underlying cause of unexplained syncope is crucial for appropriate management of recurrent syncopal episodes. Implantable loop recorders (ILRs) have emerged as valuable diagnostic tools for monitoring patients with unexplained syncope. However, the predictors of pacemaker requirement in patients with ILR and unexplained syncope remain unclear. In this study, we shed light on these prognostic factors. PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane CENTRAL were systematically searched until May 04, 2023. Studies that evaluated the predictors of pacemaker requirement in patients with implantable loop recorder and unexplained syncope were included. The “Quality In Prognosis Studies” appraisal tool was used for quality assessment. The pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was calculated. The publication bias was evaluated using Egger's and Begg's tests. Ten studies (n = 4200) were included. Right bundle branch block (OR: 3.264; 95% CI: 1.907–5.588, p < .0001) and bifascicular block (OR: 2.969; 95% CI: 1.859–4.742, p < .0001) were the strongest predictors for pacemaker implantation. Pacemaker requirement was more than two times in patients with atrial fibrillation, sinus bradycardia and first degree AV block. Valvular heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension were also significantly more in patients with pacemaker implantation. Age (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.560; 95% CI: 0.410/0.710, p < .0001) and PR interval (SMD: 0.351; 95% CI: 0.150/0.553, p = .001) were significantly higher in patients with pacemaker requirement. Heart conduction disorders, atrial arrhythmias and underlying medical conditions are main predictors of pacemaker device implantation following loop recorder installation in unexplained syncopal patients.
Impact of anemia on clinical outcomes in patients with acute heart failure: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pan Jiahui , Liu Meijun , Huang Jiamin , Chen Liuying , Xu Yizhou
Published: January 2024

Anemia and acute heart failure (AHF) frequently coexist. Several published studies have investigated the association of anemia with all‐cause mortality and all‐cause heart failure events in AHF patients, but their findings remain controversial. This study is intended to evaluate the relationship between anemia and AHF. We systematically searched PubMed, Medline, the Cochrane Library, Embase, and Elsevier's ScienceDirect databases until July 30, 2023, and selected prospective or retrospective cohort studies to evaluate anemia for AHF. A total of nine trials involving 29 587 AHF patients were eventually included. Pooled analyses demonstrated anemia is associated with a higher risk of all‐cause heart failure event rate (OR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.58−2.10, p < .01) and all‐cause mortality, both for short‐term (30 days) all‐cause mortality (OR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.31−2.79, p < .01) and long‐term (1 year) all‐cause mortality (OR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.27−2.32, p < .01). The evidence from this meta‐analysis suggested that anemia may be an independent risk factor for all‐cause mortality and all‐cause heart failure events in patients with AHF and might emphasize the importance of anemia correction before discharge.
Hemodynamic study on the therapeutic effects of varying diameter embolic coils in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Ren Xiaoyu , Li Haoran , Xu Kaihang , Li Zhongkai , Gao Bin , Lu Wangsheng , Yang Guangming , Wang Yunjie , Yin Yin , Chen Tao
Published: January 2024

Endovascular coiling is the predominant method for treating cerebral aneurysms. Extensive reports on selecting coil length, hardness, and material are available. However, the impact of coil diameter on postoperative outcomes remains unclear. This study enrolled six personalized geometric models of intracranial aneurysms: three bifurcation aneurysms and three sidewall aneurysms. Four coil models were constructed by changing the coil diameter. Coil embolization was simulated using the finite element method. Computational fluid dynamics was used to characterize hemodynamics in the aneurysms after embolization. Evaluation parameters included velocity reduction, wall shear stress (WSS), low WSS (LWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI), relative residence time (RRT), and residual flow volume in the aneurysms. At the peak time (t = 0.17 s), the proportion of LWSS area in bifurcation aneurysms increase with the rise in coil diameter: 0.8D, 71.28 ± 12.62% versus 1D, 74.97 ± 19.17% versus 1.2D, 78.88 ± 18.56% versus 1.4D, 84.00 ± 11.53% (mean ± SD). The proportion of high OSI area decreases as the coil diameter increases: 0.8D, 4.41% ± 2.82% versus 1.0D, 3.78 ± 3.33% versus 1.2D, 2.28% ± 1.77% versus 1.4D, 1.58% ± 1.11% (mean ± SD). The proportion of high RRT area increases as the coil diameter rises: 0.8D, 3.40% ± 1.68% versus 1.0D, 7.67 ± 4.12% versus 1.2D, 9.84% ± 9.50% versus 1.4D, 22.29% ± 14.28% (mean ± SD). Side wall aneurysms do not exhibit the aforementioned trend. Bifurcation aneurysms plugged with a coil of 1.4 times the diameter have the largest RFVs (<10 mm/s) within the group. Aforementioned patterns are not found in sidewall aneurysms. In the treatment of aneurysms with coiling, varying coil diameters can result in different hemodynamic environments within the aneurysm. Larger coil diameters have improved hemodynamic performance for bifurcation aneurysms. However, coil diameter and embolization effectiveness have no significant relationship for sidewall aneurysms.
Pediatric intracranial hypertension: A review of presenting symptoms, quality of life, and secondary causes
Authors: Varma Hersh , Aylward Shawn C.
Published: January 2024

Our understanding of primary (idiopathic) intracranial hypertension has evolved in recent years. There have been efforts to rename the disorder as pseudotumor cerebri syndrome or primary intracranial hypertension. Some studies have suggested a higher threshold opening pressure to define intracranial hypertension. The reported annual incidence varies from 0.6 to 0.9 per 100 000 children around the world. Patients are typically divided into prepubertal and pubertal groups, with pubertal patients having the same risk factors as adults. Prepubertal patients do not share these risk factors. They are more likely to be asymptomatic, have equal gender distributions, and are less likely to be obese. Headache is the most common presenting complaint, followed by vision changes and nausea/vomiting. A newer concept of fulminant intracranial hypertension has emerged, defined as acute onset with rapid progression of visual deficits or papilledema. Quick insertion of a temporary lumbar drain as a bridge while medical management reaches effectiveness improves visual outcomes and helps avoid permanent shunt placement. Headache is typically the first symptom to resolve with treatment, and papilledema resolves in five to six months. Recurrence rates in children and adolescents range from 28.5% to 36.4%, with higher rates after puberty.
CYP2D6 Phenotype Influences Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Venlafaxine: Results from a Population Pharmacokinetic Model in Older Adults with Depression
Authors: Men Xiaoyu , Taylor Zachary L. , Marshe Victoria S. , Blumberger Daniel M. , Karp Jordan F. , Kennedy James L. , Lenze Eric J. , Reynolds Charles F. , Stefan Cristiana , Mulsant Benoit H. , Ramsey Laura B. , Müller Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

In this study, we aimed to improve upon a published population pharmacokinetic (PK) model for venlafaxine (VEN) in the treatment of depression in older adults, then investigate whether CYP2D6 metabolizer status affected model‐estimated PK parameters of VEN and its active metabolite O‐desmethylvenlafaxine. The model included 325 participants from a clinical trial in which older adults with depression were treated with open‐label VEN (maximum 300 mg/day) for 12 weeks and plasma levels of VEN and O‐desmethylvenlafaxine were assessed at weeks 4 and 12. We fitted a nonlinear mixed‐effect PK model using NONMEM to estimate PK parameters for VEN and O‐desmethylvenlafaxine adjusted for CYP2D6 metabolizer status and age. At both lower doses (up to 150 mg/day) and higher doses (up to 300 mg/day), CYP2D6 metabolizers impacted PK model‐estimated VEN clearance, VEN exposure, and active moiety (VEN + O‐desmethylvenlafaxine) exposure. Specifically, compared with CYP2D6 normal metabolizers, (i) CYP2D6 ultra‐rapid metabolizers had higher VEN clearance; (ii) CYP2D6 intermediate metabolizers had lower VEN clearance; (iii) CYP2D6 poor metabolizers had lower VEN clearance, higher VEN exposure, and higher active moiety exposure. Overall, our study showed that including a pharmacogenetic factor in a population PK model could increase model fit, and this improved model demonstrated how CYP2D6 metabolizer status affected VEN‐related PK parameters, highlighting the importance of genetic factors in personalized medicine.
Three‐Dimensional Cell Culture of Epididymal Basal Cells and Organoids: A Novel Tool for Toxicology
Authors: Dufresne Julie , Gregory Mary , Pinel Laurie , Cyr Daniel G.
Published: January 2024

Spermatozoa are formed in the testis but must transit through the epididymis to acquire motility and the ability to fertilize. The epididymis is a single convoluted tubule comprising several anatomically and physiologically distinct regions. The pseudostratified epithelium consists of multiple cell types, including principal cells, clear cells, narrow cells, and apical cells, that line the lumen of the epididymis. Basal cells are present at the base of the epithelium, and halo cells, which includes macrophages/monocytes, mononuclear phagocytes, and T lymphocytes, are also present in the epithelium. Several aspects of this complex spermatozoan maturation process are well established, but a great deal remains poorly understood. Given that dysfunction of the epididymis has been associated with male infertility, in vitro tools to study epididymal function and epididymal sperm maturation are required. Our lab and others have previously developed human, rat, and mouse epithelial principal cell lines, which have been used to address certain questions, such as about the regulation of junctional proteins in the epididymis, as well as the toxicity of nonylphenols. Given that the epididymal epithelium comprises multiple cell types, however, a 3D in vitro model provides a more comprehensive and realistic tool that can be used to study and elucidate the multiple aspects of epididymal function. The purpose of this article is to provide detailed information regarding the preparation, maintenance, passaging, and immunofluorescent staining of rat epididymal organoids derived from adult basal cells, which we have demonstrated to be a type of adult stem cell in the rat epididymis. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Isolation of epididymal cells

Basic Protocol 2: Magnetic activated cell sorting and isolation of basal cells

Basic Protocol 3: Preparation and culture of epididymal basal cell organoids

Basic Protocol 4: Passage of epididymal basal cell organoids

Basic Protocol 5: Freezing and thawing of epididymal basal cell organoids

Basic Protocol 6: Immunofluorescent staining of epididymal basal cell organoids
Rethinking the company's role: Creating shared value from corporate social innovation
Authors: Bitencourt Claudia , Zanandrea Gabriela , Froehlich Cristiane , Agostini Manuela Rösing , Haag Roselei
Published: January 2024

This article aims to analyze how corporate social innovation contributes to the creation of shared value. The research presents a unique case study of a company in southern Brazil that is recognized for its strategic repositioning, based on a redefinition of its purpose and the inclusion of social and environmental values in its business model. We questioned how a for‐profit organization could create shared value based not only on economic considerations but also on social values? To this end, and based on Den Ouden's (2012) framework, we use multiple‐level analysis, considering the value created for users, organizations, society, and the ecosystem. To collect the data, we use in‐depth semi‐structured interviews and documentary research, followed by qualitative content analysis aided by Nvivo. We highlight the fact that for a company to create value considering diverse stakeholders at multiple levels of analysis, it must develop a capacity for collaboration, especially the ability to communicate and learn collectively. As a practical contribution, the results indicate that in creating shared value from corporate social innovation, it is important for organizational changes to be systemic, and for the development of solutions to focus on needs that emerge from the community. The study signals the importance of the community, especially the user, in developing solutions that focus on social challenges and encourage for‐profit organizations to rethink their role in society.
A clustering‐based user pairing scheme for downlink 3D non‐orthogonal multiple access‐based visible light communication systems
Authors: Dogra Tanuja , Rai Bharti Manoranjan
Published: January 2024

Non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) has proven to be a very effective multiple access scheme to be employed in visible light communication (VLC) systems. NOMA scheme is capable of enhancing the spectral efficiency, sum rate performance, and various other performance parameters in VLC systems as compared to traditional orthogonal multiple access schemes. However, it is not practical to apply the concept of NOMA to all the users jointly. Therefore, the concept of user pairing has been introduced in literature to implement NOMA effectively so as to reduce the decoding order of successive interference cancellation (SIC) mechanism and complexity. In this paper, we have proposed a user pairing scheme based on clustering for downlink 3D NOMA‐based VLC systems. In this user pairing scheme, clustering is performed prior user pairing. The number of clusters are selected using K‐means algorithm and Elbow method, and the user allocation in a particular cluster is validated using artificial bee colony (ABC) optimization. In order to achieve high throughput, inter‐cluster user pairing is performed by forming pairs of two or three users with maximum channel gain difference in between them. The simulation results show that, for given values of signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), the proposed user pairing scheme offers higher average user data rates (AUDRs) as compared to the existing user pairing schemes for downlink NOMA‐based VLC systems. The energy efficiency (EE) and the bit error rate (BER) performance of the proposed user pairing scheme have also been studied.
Effect of pharyngeal wall compliance on passive collapsibility of retropalatal airway in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Tian Hongyi , Li Yanru , Lin Na , Liao Jianhong , Shi Yunhan , Kang Dan , Ding Xiu , Li Hongguang , Han Demin
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate the pharyngeal compliance of patients with obstructive sleep apnea with complete muscle relaxation. And to study the relationship between the pharyngeal wall compliance and the mechanical load of the retropalatal airway.

Methods

The static mechanical load of the retropalatal pharynx was determined by critical closing pressure (Pcrit) of the segment during general anesthesia in 30 patients. The size/dimensions of the pharynx were measured while intraluminal pressure was controlled at 3–20 cmH2O.

Results

A total of 30 participants (age: 37.6 ± 7.6 years, 27 males) were studied. The mean apnea‐hypopnea index was 51.6 ± 23.9 events/h. The retropalatal mean Pcrit was 12.68 ± 4.13 cmH2O. There was a significant difference in the length of the obstruction segment (F = 26.028, p < 0.001) among groups with different pharyngeal collapsibility. The correlation between the mechanical load of retropalatal airway and pharyngeal compliance in the level of the hard palate (r = −0.448, p = 0.015) and the uvula level (r = −0.462, p = 0.026) were significant.

Conclusions

Increased retropalatal mechanical loads were related to abnormal passive compliance of the pharyngeal wall. The contribution of each pharyngeal wall to airway collapse was varied.
2H‐Azirines: Recent Progress in Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Xu Fen , Zeng Fan‐Wang , Luo Wen‐Jie , Zhang Shi‐Yu , Huo Jia‐Qi , Li Ya‐Peng
Published: January 2024

2H‐arizines are important three‐membered heterocycles in organic chemistry. Recently, many advances in the synthesis and functionalization of 2H‐arizines have been reported. Neber rearrangement, isomerization of isoxazole, oxidation of enamine, C−H bond activation, decomposition of vinyl azide, functionalization of alkyne, and multi‐step synthesis have been developed for the efficient assembly of 2H‐azirines. As versatile and highly strained three‐membered unsaturated heterocycles, 2H‐azirines can be used as distinctive building blocks towards significant functional groups, and have attracted extensive attention for the fabrication of numerous heterocycles. Recent studies have focused on [3+n] ring‐expansion reactions, nucleophilic addition of C=N double bond or continuous nucleophilic addition followed by cyclization, ring‐opening of 2H‐azirines to acyclic compounds, and substitution of sp3‐C−H of 2H‐azirines. One of the most critical challenges is seeking for a selective opening of the specific three bonds of the strained azirine circle, some of what can be achieved on the basis of metal catalyst, photocatalysis, or combination of metal catalyst and photocatalysis. In this review, recent advances involving the synthesis and reactivity of 2H‐arizines accompanied with challenges and breakthroughs are summarized. The review mainly covers the period from 2019 to 2023.
Synthesis of α‐Imino Amidines and 2,3‐Diamino Indolenines Using a One‐Pot Graphene Oxide‐Catalyzed Process
Authors: Caputo Samantha , Donoso Silvia , Banfi Luca , Basso Andrea , Lambruschini Chiara , Riva Renata , Kovtun Alessandro , Moni Lisa
Published: January 2024

The acid‐catalyzed three‐component (3 C) UGI reaction of isocyanides, amines, and aldehydes generally gives α‐amino amidines. Herein, we report the graphene oxide (GO)‐promoted promoted 3 C Ugi reaction followed by a C−N bond oxidation to provide rapid access to α‐imino amidines. GO plays a crucial role both in the multicomponent reaction and in the subsequent oxidation. Interestingly, α‐imino amidines bearing electron‐donating groups undergo spontaneous cyclization leading substituted 2,3‐diamino indolenines. The scope of the process has been investigated with respect to all three components, and a comparison between the one‐pot and sequential approaches is given. The major advantages of the developed methodology include one‐pot synthesis, operational simplicity, high atom economy, broad substrate scope, multicomponent character, and applicability towards gram scale synthesis. Recovery and regeneration of GO and investigation of its real active sites has been performed by control experiments and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
Preserving node similarity adversarial learning graph representation with graph neural network
Authors: Yang Shangying , Zhang Yinglong , E Jiawei , Xia Xuewen , Xu Xing
Published: January 2024

In recent years, graph neural networks (GNNs) have showcased a strong ability to learn graph representations and have been widely used in various practical applications. However, many currently proposed GNN‐based representation learning methods do not retain neighbor‐based node similarity well, and this structural information is crucial in many cases. To address this issue, drawing inspiration from generative adversarial networks (GANs), we propose PNS‐AGNN (i.e., Preserving Node Similarity Adversarial Graph Neural Networks), a novel framework for acquiring graph representations, which can preserve neighbor‐based node similarity of the original graph and efficiently extract the nonlinear structural features of the graph. Specifically, we propose a new positive sample allocation strategy based on a node similarity index, where the generator can generate vector representations that satisfy node similarity through adversarial training. In addition, we also adopt an improved GNN as the discriminator, which utilizes the original graph structure for recursive neighborhood aggregation to maintain the local structure and feature information of nodes, thereby enhancing the graph representation's ability. Finally, we experimentally demonstrate that PNS‐AGNN significantly improves various tasks, including link prediction, node classification, and visualization.
Reconstruction of ancient drainage in the contact karst of the Harmanecká dolina Valley, Western Carpathians, based on mineralogical data from the allochthonous sediments and isobase geomorphometry
Authors: Bónová Katarína , Bóna Ján , Gallay Michal , Hók Jozef , Bella Pavel , Pańczyk Magdalena , Hraško Ľubomír , Mikuš Tomáš
Published: January 2024

Caves are unique sedimentary archives that may record the evolution of the surrounding landscape. In this study, we applied combination of mineralogical data on allochthonous sediments with digital modelling of isobase surfaces to reconstruct the multi‐phased geomorphological development of the karst of the Harmanecká dolina Valley. The allochthonous cave sediments contain quartz and translucent heavy minerals (HMs) such as tourmaline, garnet, rutile, apatite, zircon, pyroxene, amphibole, staurolite, spinel, monazite, corundum, epidote, xenotime and florencite. Rounded shape and surface microtextures preserved on quartz and most HM grains point to predominantly a fluvial transport of detritus and its multiple recycling history. Pyroxene and amphibole are exceptions that denoted a very close source and the first‐cycle sedimentation from the adjacent volcanic Kremnické vrchy Mts. corresponding to obtained SHRIMP U–Pb detrital zircon ages of ~13.8–12.8 Ma. Heavy‐mineral geochemistry (e.g., zoned grossular‐rich garnet) and wide range of the Palaeozoic ages (Ordovician to Permian) confirms that the studied detritus sourced dominantly in the Western‐Carpathian crystalline basement rocks of the Veporic/Tatric tectonic units initially distributed by the palaeo‐Hron River and its tributaries from the east. Rare cummingtonite, remarkable tourmaline with omphacite inclusions and florencite point to the mixture of recycled sediments of Neogene Danube Basin formations containing also Austroalpine pre‐Neogene basement detritus, and confirm the original widespread distribution of the Neogene sediments currently eroded. Geomorphometric analyses of a LiDAR digital terrain model and derived isobase surface elevation models indicate the topographic development of wider area and support the findings about the transport direction of detritus. Presented multi‐method approach is suitable not only for the understanding of development of the surroundings of Harmanecká dolina Valley but also for the palaeogeographic and geomorphological reconstructions of similar karst and non‐karst areas.
Sniffing out meaning: Chemosensory and semantic neural network changes in sommeliers
Authors: Carreiras Manuel , Quiñones Ileana , Chen H. Alexander , Vázquez‐Araujo Laura , Small Dana , Frost Ram
Published: January 2024

Wine tasting is a very complex process that integrates a combination of sensation, language, and memory. Taste and smell provide perceptual information that, together with the semantic narrative that converts flavor into words, seem to be processed differently between sommeliers and naïve wine consumers. We investigate whether sommeliers' wine experience shapes only chemosensory processing, as has been previously demonstrated, or if it also modulates the way in which the taste and olfactory circuits interact with the semantic network. Combining diffusion‐weighted images and fMRI (activation and connectivity) we investigated whether brain response to tasting wine differs between sommeliers and nonexperts (1) in the sensory neural circuits representing flavor and/or (2) in the neural circuits for language and memory. We demonstrate that training in wine tasting shapes the microstructure of the left and right superior longitudinal fasciculus. Using mediation analysis, we showed that the experience modulates the relationship between fractional anisotropy and behavior: the higher the fractional anisotropy the higher the capacity to recognize wine complexity. In addition, we found functional differences between sommeliers and naïve consumers affecting the flavor sensory circuit, but also regions involved in semantic operations. The former reflects a capacity for differential sensory processing, while the latter reflects sommeliers' ability to attend to relevant sensory inputs and translate them into complex verbal descriptions. The enhanced synchronization between these apparently independent circuits suggests that sommeliers integrated these descriptions with previous semantic knowledge to optimize their capacity to distinguish between subtle differences in the qualitative character of the wine.
Novel Rearrangements of Guaiane Sesquiterpenes
Authors: Türtscher Paul L. , Brunner Gerhard , Goeke Andreas
Published: January 2024

Guaiane sesquiterpenes are an important class of biologically active natural products. Several oxygenated bicyclic but also tricyclic derivatives show unprecedented olfactory activity with great importance in perfumery. Their in vivo syntheses are largely controlled by the intrinsic selectivities of terpene synthases and only a few rearrangements of their hydroazulene skeletons were reported, mostly resulting into terpenoids with decalin motives. Using α‐guaiene and bulnesene, complex rearrangements into novel tri and tetracyclic terpenoids are described herein. The cationic rearrangement mechanisms of their formation based on subsequent 1,2‐H and alkyl shifts promoted by substoichiometric amounts of ethylaluminum dichloride.
A bumpy ride—Acute recurrent pancreatitis in pregnancy in a Type 2 diabetic, presenting with euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis: A case report
Authors: Ali Sara Showkath , Bhat Sowrabha , Salih Hisham A. , Naseer Ansaba , Rajaratnam Annie
Published: January 2024

Synopsis

We describe a case of recurrent idiopathic pancreatitis in a pregnant diabetic who presented with euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), was managed successfully and delivered a healthy baby.
Diagnosis of glaucoma from retinal fundus images using disc localization and sequential DNN model
Authors: Sonti Kamesh , Dhuli Ravindra
Published: January 2024

Deep learning is an emerging trend with enormous applications over the past few years. Ophthalmology is one such area in medical applications where early disease detection is required to avoid loss of vision. Glaucoma is a rapidly growing disorder related to human eye, which arises due to the increase in pressure inside the eye. The medical diagnosis methods available for glaucoma have some limitations; hence, computer‐aided design (CAD) approach is preferred using images. In the context of image processing, convolution neural networks (CNNs) are preferred for classification because of their ability to grasp highly discriminate features from raw pixel intensities. In our approach, diagnosis of glaucoma is implemented by extracting the region of interest (ROI) by splitting the coefficients into recurrence decays and will improve the possibility of identifying even poorly differentiated exudates and upgrading the normal recurrence ranges. Later, a sequential deep neural network (DNN) model with a rectified linear unit (ReLU) and sigmoid function is designed to train the data with effective features matching from training and testing samples. The proposed model is implemented on two publicly available datasets (Drishti‐GS1 and ACRIMA) using 10‐fold cross validation (CV), 60:40 and 70:30 split ratio approaches, and performance is assessed using the metrics and plotted the region of convergence curves. The model is also tested on two more datasets (ORIGA and Refuge) to validate the robustness of the proposed model. The obtained simulation results and the evaluated performance metrics prove that our proposed model diagnose glaucoma from retinal fundus images effectively compared with other existing models.
Free‐ranging dogs and their owners: Evaluating demographics, husbandry practices and local attitudes towards canine management and dog–wildlife conflict
Authors: Marshall Holly E. , Gore Meredith L. , Ngoprasert Dusit , Savini Tommaso
Published: January 2024

Domestic dogs, numbering over 900 million worldwide, are commonly kept as service animals and companions. However, their interactions with wildlife have become a growing concern for conservation biologists studying human–wildlife conflicts. It has been reported that domestic dogs pose threats to at least 188 wildlife species, a figure that is likely underestimated. In regions like Southeast Asia, the actual impact could be up to five times the current estimates suggest. This study was designed to explore community perspectives on dog–wildlife conflict within protected areas in rural Thailand, focusing on dog husbandry and promoting effective population management strategies. To gather data on dog ownership, management practices and community perspectives on dog–wildlife conflicts, a structured questionnaire survey was conducted amongst households in settlements surrounding protected areas in Northern Thailand. The survey revealed a widespread presence of domestic dogs in rural Thailand, with half of all households owning dogs and over 40% of these dogs having unrestricted movements. Despite this high prevalence, the impacts of dog–wildlife conflicts were not widely recognised by respondents in the study area. Respondents agreed that dog owners were responsible for controlling their own dogs, while local governments were responsible for controlling dog populations. The most popular management options for dog populations were nonlethal methods, including free vaccinations and sterilisation for owned dogs and trap‐neuter‐vaccinate‐return programmes for strays. The lack of awareness among respondents about dog–wildlife conflicts highlights the need for educational activities on the impacts of free‐ranging domestic dogs. Protected area managers must enforce dog‐free policies within these zones to mitigate the potential threats to vulnerable wildlife populations. However, the lack of veterinary practices in the area represents a significant challenge to effective dog population management. Developing strategies to overcome this issue is crucial. Overall, the findings suggest that effective dog population management requires a collaborative approach between dog owners, local governments and conservation managers.
Body composition estimates using a 2D image analysis system across different environmental conditions: An agreement study
Authors: Metoyer Casey J. , Sullivan Katherine , Winchester Lee J. , Richardson Mark T. , Esco Michael R. , Fedewa Michael V.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study examined the agreement between %Fat measurements using a smartphone‐based application (IMAGE) across different environmental conditions.

Methods

A single reference image was obtained using an 8 MP smartphone camera under Ambient Light in front of a white background. Additional photos were obtained using a 0.7 MP, 5 MP, and 12 MP smartphone cameras; low‐, moderate‐, and bright‐lighting conditions; and various color backgrounds including black, green, orange, and gray.

Results

%Fat measured using the 0.7 MP camera (27.8 ± 6.2 %Fat) was higher than the reference (26.8 ± 6.1 %Fat) (p < 0.001). The black (32.0 ± 12.0 %Fat), green (27.5 ± 6.3 %Fat), and gray (27.8 ± 6.3 %Fat) backgrounds yielded higher %Fat than the white (p = 0.03, 0.01, and 0.001). All camera, lighting, and background conditions were strongly correlated with the reference (all intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] >0.98, all standard error of the estimate [SEE] <1.5 %Fat, all p < 0.001), except the black background which yielded poorer agreement with the white background (ICC = 0.69, SEE = 4.5%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

%Fat from IMAGE were strongly correlated across various environmental conditions.
DON/DRP‐104 as potent serine protease inhibitors implicated in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: Comparative binding modes with human TMPRSS2 and novel therapeutic approach
Authors: Oduro‐Kwateng Ernest , Soliman Mahmoud E.
Published: January 2024

Human transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) is an important member of the type 2 transmembrane serine protease (TTSP) family with significant therapeutic markings. The search for potent TMPRSS2 inhibitors against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection with favorable tissue specificity and off‐site toxicity profiles remains limited. Therefore, probing the anti‐TMPRSS2 potential of enhanced drug delivery systems, such as nanotechnology and prodrug systems, has become compelling. We report the first in silico study of TMPRSS2 against a prodrug, [isopropyl(S)‐2‐((S)‐2‐acetamido‐3‐(1H‐indol‐3‐yl)‐propanamido)‐6‐diazo‐5‐oxo‐hexanoate] also known as DRP‐104 synthesized from 6‐Diazo‐5‐oxo‐l‐norleucine (DON). We performed comparative studies on DON and DRP‐104 against a clinically potent TMPRSS2 inhibitor, nafamostat, and a standard serine protease inhibitor, 4‐(2‐Aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride (AEBSF) against TMPRSS2 and found improved TMPRSS2 inhibition through synergistic binding of the S1/S1' subdomains. Both DON and DRP‐104 had better thermodynamic profiles than AEBSF and nafamostat. DON was found to confer structural stability with strong positive correlated inter‐residue motions, whereas DRP‐104 was found to confer kinetic stability with restricted residue displacements and reduced loop flexibility. Interestingly, the Scavenger Receptor Cysteine‐Rich (SRCR) domain of TMPRSS2 may be involved in its inhibition mechanics. Two previously unidentified loops, designated X (270−275) and Y (293−296) underwent minimal and major structural transitions, respectively. In addition, residues 273−277 consistently transitioned to a turn conformation in all ligated systems, whereas unique transitions were identified for other transitioning residue groups in each TMPRSS2‐inhibitor complex. Intriguingly, while both DON and DRP‐104 showed similar loop transition patterns, DRP‐104 preserved loop structural integrity. As evident from our systematic comparative study using experimentally/clinically validated inhibitors, DRP‐104 may serve as a potent and novel TMPRSS2 inhibitor and warrants further clinical investigation.
Balanced spatiotemporal arrangements of histone H3 and H4 posttranslational modifications are necessary for meiotic prophase I chromosome organization
Authors: Kumar S. Lava , Mohanty Aradhana , Kumari Anjali , Etikuppam Ajith Kumar , Kumar S. Ranjith , Athar Mohd , Kumar P. Kiran , Beniwal Rohit , Potula Moukthika M. , Gandham Ravi Kumar , Rao H. B. D. Prasada
Published: January 2024

Dynamic nuclear architecture and chromatin organizations are the key features of the mid‐prophase I in mammalian meiosis. The chromatin undergoes major changes, including meiosis‐specific spatiotemporal arrangements and remodeling, the establishment of chromatin loop–axis structure, pairing, and crossing over between homologous chromosomes, any deficiencies in these events may induce genome instability, subsequently leading to failure to produce gametes and infertility. Despite the significance of chromatin structure, little is known about the location of chromatin marks and the necessity of their balance during meiosis prophase I. Here, we show a thorough cytological study of the surface‐spread meiotic chromosomes of mouse spermatocytes for H3K9,14,18,23,27,36, H4K12,16 acetylation, and H3K4,9,27,36 methylation. Active acetylation and methylation marks on H3 and H4, such as H3K9ac, H3K14ac, H3K18ac, H3K36ac, H3K56ac, H4K12ac, H4K16ac, and H3K36me3 exhibited pan‐nuclear localization away from heterochromatin. In comparison, repressive marks like H3K9me3 and H3K27me3 are localized to heterochromatin. Further, taking advantage of the delivery of small‐molecule chemical inhibitors methotrexate (heterochromatin enhancer), heterochromatin inhibitor, anacardic acid (histone acetyltransferase inhibitor), trichostatin A (histone deacetylase inhibitor), IOX1 (JmjC demethylases inhibitor), and AZ505 (methyltransferase inhibitor) in seminiferous tubules through the rete testis route, revealed that alteration in histone modifications enhanced the centromere mislocalization, chromosome breakage, altered meiotic recombination and reduced sperm count. Specifically, IOX1 and AZ505 treatment shows severe meiotic phenotypes, including altering chromosome axis length and chromatin loop size via transcriptional regulation of meiosis‐specific genes. Our findings highlight the importance of balanced chromatin modifications in meiotic prophase I chromosome organization and instability.
Rare eggshell structure in Odonata: Lindenia tetraphylla (Van der Linden) (Anisoptera: Gomphidae)
Authors: Salur Ali , Suludere Zekiye
Published: January 2024

Lindenia tetraphylla (Van der Linden, 1825) eggs exhibit an egg structure that is very rare in other Gomphidae species. They have a well‐developed surface reticulation structure. The anterior pole of the egg has a small, rounded micropylar area consisting of seven orifices arranged radially around a central area. The posterior pole has a sessile, truncated cone that carries 55–65 coiled filaments. The filament structure found at the posterior pole of the egg has been observed in the gomphid species Lestinogomphus africanus (Fraser, 1926), Ictinogomphus australis (Selys, 1873), and I. rapax (Rambur, 1842). However, L. tetraphylla eggs differ from these species in both morphology and filament structure. This study provides a detailed analysis of the ultrastructure of L. tetraphylla eggs using scanning electron microscopy, and the functional and taxonomic significance of the eggshell are discussed.

Research Highlights

The aim of this study is to examine the ultrastructure of the L. tetraphylla eggshell, emphasizing its function and taxonomic value. In this context, the general morphology of the egg, the reticulations on its surface, the micropylar region and micropylar structure, and the posterior filament coil were examined.

In this study, the ultrastructure of L. tetraphylla egg was examined for the first time using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). As a result of the examination, it was detected for the first time that the posterior filament coil, which is rarely seen in odonate eggs, is also present in L. tetraphylla eggs.

By comparing the L. tetraphylla egg with the eggs of I. ferox, I. rapax, I. australis, and L. africanus species, which are similar in terms of the posterior filament coil, the features that distinguish the L. tetraphylla egg.
Clinical prediction model: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children versus Kawasaki disease
Authors: Starnes Lauren S. , Starnes Joseph R. , Stopczynski Tess , Amarin Justin Z. , Charnogursky Cara , Hayek Haya , Talj Rana , Parra David A. , Clark Daniel E. , Patrick Anna E. , Katz Sophie E. , Howard Leigh M. , Peetluk Lauren , Rankin Danielle , Spieker Andrew J. , Halasa Natasha B.
Published: January 2024

Background

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) is a rare but serious complication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. Features of MIS‐C overlap with those of Kawasaki disease (KD).

Objective

The study objective was to develop a prediction model to assist with this diagnostic dilemma.

Methods

Data from a retrospective cohort of children hospitalized with KD before the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic were compared to a prospective cohort of children hospitalized with MIS‐C. A bootstrapped backwards selection process was used to develop a logistic regression model predicting the probability of MIS‐C diagnosis. A nomogram was created for application to individual patients.

Results

Compared to children with incomplete and complete KD (N = 602), children with MIS‐C (N = 105) were older and had longer hospitalizations; more frequent intensive care unit admissions and vasopressor use; lower white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, platelet count, sodium, and alanine aminotransferase; and higher hemoglobin and C‐reactive protein (CRP) at admission. Left ventricular dysfunction was more frequent in patients with MIS‐C, whereas coronary abnormalities were more common in those with KD. The final prediction model included age, sodium, platelet count, alanine aminotransferase, reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction, and CRP. The model exhibited good discrimination with AUC 0.96 (95% confidence interval: [0.94–0.98]) and was well calibrated (optimism‐corrected intercept of −0.020 and slope of 0.99).

Conclusions

A diagnostic prediction model utilizing admission information provides excellent discrimination between MIS‐C and KD. This model may be useful for diagnosis of MIS‐C but requires external validation.
Framework for a radiography student podcast
Authors: Girard Emily , Punch Amanda , Jimenez Yobelli
Published: January 2024

Podcasts refer to episodes of audio content that are readily available on streaming applications on smartphones or computers. This paper reports on the development of the ‘Breathe In Radiography Podcast’ series for radiography students and provides suggestions for evaluation. Podcast development followed a structured framework, including identification of podcast topics and expert guests, content development, audio recording, episode upload to host site and distribution. Using a framework was useful to guide development and ensure consistency across podcast episodes. Evaluation through podcast usage data, surveys and focus groups provides a comprehensive strategy to explore radiography students' perception of the newly developed podcast series.
Reconstitution of RNA cap methylation reveals different features of SARS‐CoV‐2 and SARS‐CoV methyltransferases
Authors: He Miao , Cao Liu , Liu Lihong , Jin Xu , Zheng Birong , Liu Xue , Zhuang Jiaxin , Zhang Fushi , Yang Zixiao , Ji Yanxi , Xu Tiefeng , Huang Siyao , Chen Junhai , Xie Luyang , Li Kun , Hou Panpan , Pan Jian , Guo Deyin , Li Chunmei
Published: January 2024

Cap RNA methylations play important roles in the replication, evasion of host RNA sensor recognition, and pathogenesis. Coronaviruses possess both guanine N7‐ and 2′‐O‐ribose methyltransferases (N7‐MTase and 2′‐O‐MTase) encoded by nonstructural protein (nsp) 14 and nsp16/10 complex, respectively. In this study, we reconstituted the two‐step RNA methylations of N7‐MTase and 2′‐O‐MTase of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in vitro and demonstrated its common and different features in comparison with that of SARS‐CoV. We revealed that the nsp16/10 2′‐O‐MTase of SARS‐CoV‐2 has a broader substrate selectivity than the counterpart of SARS‐CoV and can accommodate both unmethylated and uncapped RNA substrates in a sequence‐independent manner. Most intriguingly, the substrate selectivity of nsp16/10 complex is not determined by the apoenzyme of nsp16 MTase but by its cofactor nsp10. These results provide insight into the unique features of SARS‐CoV‐2 MTases and may help develop strategies to precisely intervene in the methylation pathway and pathogenesis of SARS‐CoV‐2.
Physical exercise to promote regeneration after peripheral nerve injury in animal models: A systematic review
Authors: Fletcher Bryce , Phillips Rachel , Faust Amanda , Cook James L. , Nuelle Julia A. V.
Published: January 2024

Peripheral nerve injuries are common injuries that often have a drastic effect on patient's activities of daily living and physical function. While techniques for the surgical repair of these injuries have improved over time, rehabilitation methods following these repairs have been non‐standardized and under researched. Electronic searches were conducted in Ovid/Medline and SCOPUS to identify articles that discuss rehabilitation and exercise following peripheral nerve injury in animal models and its effects on peripheral nerve regeneration and recovery of function. Thirty‐eight articles met inclusion criteria; all were prospective studies in animal models. This systematic review suggests that exercise is a useful tool in returning autonomy to the individual and has beneficial effects in the recovery from peripheral nerve injury. It is beneficial to use rehabilitation exercises following the repair of peripheral nerve injuries to promote regeneration, and timing of that exercise may be just as important as the exercise prescribed. However, further studies with standardized models and outcome measures need to be conducted before translation to clinical trials.