bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the performance of a suite of machine learning models for daily river water temperature prediction
Authors: Zhu Senlin , Nyarko Emmanuel Karlo , Hadzima-Nyarko Marijana , Heddam Salim , Wu Shiqiang
Published: June 2019

In this study, different versions of feedforward neural network (FFNN), Gaussian process regression (GPR), and decision tree (DT) models were developed to estimate daily river water temperature using air temperature (Ta), flow discharge (Q), and the day of year (DOY) as predictors. The proposed models were assessed using observed data from eight river stations, and modelling results were compared with the air2stream model. Model performances were evaluated using four indicators in this study: the coefficient of correlation (R), the Willmott index of agreement (d), the root mean squared error (RMSE), and the mean absolute error (MAE). Results indicated that the three machine learning models had similar performance when only Ta was used as the predictor. When the day of year was included as model input, the performances of the three machine learning models dramatically improved. Including flow discharge instead of day of year, as an additional predictor, provided a lower gain in model accuracy, thereby showing the relatively minor role of flow discharge in river water temperature prediction. However, an increase in the relative importance of flow discharge was noticed for stations with high altitude catchments (Rhône, Dischmabach and Cedar) which are influenced by cold water releases from hydropower or snow melting, suggesting the dependence of the role of flow discharge on the hydrological characteristics of such rivers. The air2stream model outperformed the three machine learning models for most of the studied rivers except for the cases where including flow discharge as a predictor provided the highest benefits. The DT model outperformed the FFNN and GPR models in the calibration phase, however in the validation phase, its performance slightly decreased. In general, the FFNN model performed slightly better than GPR model. In summary, the overall modelling results showed that the three machine learning models performed well for river water temperature modelling.
Effect of Planting Date on the Performance of High Yield Potential Varieties of Rice in Bangladesh
Authors: Al-Amin Muhammad , Nasrin Shamima , Mabud A. K. M. Golam , Sani Md. Nasir Hossain
Published: June 2019

The experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Bangladesh Agricultural University, Bangladesh to investigate the effect of planting dates on the performance of high yield potential varies of rice in Boro season. The experiment consisted of five dates of transplanting viz. 10 and 25 December 2015, 10 and 25 January and 10 February 2016: four high yield potential varieties viz. hybrid rice Sonar Bangla-1, Jagoran, BRRI Dhan-29 and BINA Dhan-6. Results indicated that there was a significant effect of date of transplanting on yield of potential varieties of rice in Boro season. It was observed that plant height, panicle length, grain yield, straw yield, number of tillers per hill-1 gradually increased up to 10 January. After 10 January transplanting yield reduced. The highest grain yield 6.41 t ha-1 was observed in hybrid rice Sonar Bangla-1. The result revealed that Sonar Bangla-1 emerged as the best variety in Boro season regarding grain and straw yields among the varieties studied and it should preferably be transplanted between 25 December to 10 January to obtain appreciable better yield.
Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Derived Microvesicles on Pulmonary Toxicity Induced by Petrol Exhaust Nanoparticle; Histological and Immuno-Histochemical Study
Authors: El Salam Sherifa Abd , Faruk Eman Mohamed , Fouad Hanan , Nafie Naglaa Yehia
Published: June 2019

Background: Diesel vehicles exhaust contains toxic nanoparticles that drastically affect lung tissue due to their direct cytotoxic effects, induction of oxidative stress, inflammatory signaling pathways and DNA damage. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exhibit anti-inflammatory effects and efficient regenerative capacity in chronic lung diseases. 

Objectives: Evaluation of the effects of MSCs and MSCs-derived micro vesicles (MSCs-MVs) on pulmonary toxicity induced by diesel exhaust nanoparticles (DENPs).

Materials and Methods: Sixty male rats were equally divided into: Group I (Control rats), Group II (DENPs group) received repeated doses of DENPs (180μg/rat) intratracheally every other day for 6 days, Group III (MSCs group) received MSCs intravenously (3×106 cells) after the last dose of DENPs and Group IV (MSCs-MVs group) received MSCs-MVs (0.5 mg/mL) intravenously after the last dose of DENPs. Lung tissue were subjected to histological and immunohistochemical assessment. Inflammatory cytokines and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) contents of inflammatory cells, albumin, LDH and total proteins were evaluated.

Results: Histological picture of lung tissue in DENPs group showed numerous collapsed alveoli, thick interalveolar septa and marked cellular infiltration. Elastic fibers were markedly decreased by DENPs. Increased optical density of NF-κB/p65 immunoreactivity. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid showed significant elevation of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-a, IL-6), polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), neutrophils, macrophages, LDH, total proteins and albumin. Treatment with either MSCs or MSCs-MVs led to a significant amelioration of all of the aforementioned studied parameters.

Conclusion: MSCs-MVs and MSCs showed significant therapeutic effects against DENPs damaging effects on the lung tissues via their regenerative capacity and anti-inflammatory effects.
Tackling the Burden of Blindness in Ogun State, Nigeria: The Success of Private / Public Partnerships
Authors: Bogunjoko Tayo J. , Hassan Adekunle O. , Lewis Karinya , Akanbi Toyin , Ashaye Abimbola , Akinye Ayo , Bogunjoko Halima
Published: June 2019

Primary Health Centres in Nigeria and particularly Ogun state have suffered serious neglect over the years. A private / public partnership together with private health /education partnership have strengthened government health systems, developing a sustainable model for delivery of eye services to the most indigent. Over the last four years, in Ogun state, screening for cataract alone has increased in fourfold and the number of cataracts surgeries performed, threefold. However, ongoing subsidising of surgeries may be needed until local health insurance schemes or other ways of financing eye care become reliable. Tackling health beliefs about eye care remain one of the main barriers to uptake of services.
MICROWAVE THERMOACOUSTIC TOMAGRAPHIC IMAGING
Authors: Garrett David C. , Xu Yuan , Wang Lihong V.
Published: December 2024

After introducing the principles of thermoacoustic tomography, we summarize the mechanisms and models of the dielectric properties of biological tissues in the microwave frequency range. Next, we introduce some theoretical results from studies of thermoacoustic tomography, including information about optimal microwave frequencies, effects of acoustical heterogeneity, limited‐view thermoacoustic tomography, reconstruction algorithms, and spatial resolution. Experimental setups are then reviewed in terms of their specifications and performance, and results from phantom, animal, and human imaging are summarized. Finally, in the interest of clinical applications, safety and practical considerations are reviewed.
MICROWAVE CIRCUITS
Authors: Cho Choon S.
Published: December 2024

The term “microwave circuits” is used to identify the electrical circuits used at microwave frequencies for performing signal‐processing functions such as amplification, frequency conversion, mixing, detection, phase shifting, filtering, and power dividing. By “microwave frequencies,” we refer to electromagnetic signals whose wavelength is in centimeters, roughly from 30 cm to 1 mm with the corresponding frequencies ranging from 1 GHz (GHz = 109 Hz) to 300 GHz. The frequency range from 30 to 300 GHz is also known as themillimeter‐wave band. Microwave frequencies present several interesting and unusual features not found in other portions of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum. These features make microwaves uniquely suitable for several useful applications in telecommunications, radar, industrial heating and sensors, wireless power transfer, and so on. The most common consumer application of microwaves is the domestic microwave oven used for food processing.
Tailoring Biopolymers for Electronic Skins: Materials Design and Applications
Authors: Zhu Hong , Wang Jinpei , Yang Xiao , Zhang Baoping , Wang Zuankai
Published: December 2024

The past few years have witnessed the rapid exploration of natural and synthetic materials to construct electronic skins (e‐skins) to emulate the multisensory functions of human skins driven by promising applications. Among various materials employed in functional e‐skins, biopolymers are particularly notable for their exceptional biocompatibility and abundant resources. Despite remarkable progress in engineering biopolymeric materials, a timely and holistic review focusing on the design, synthesis, and modification of biopolymers tailored for biopolymers‐derived e‐skins (Bp‐E‐Skins) is lacking. In this review, the key attributes of biopolymers are introduced to establish a fundamental understanding fordeveloping functional Bp‐E‐Skins. Next, the recent progress in harnessing various natural and synthetic biopolymers as building blocks for constructing Bp‐E‐Skins is systematically discussed, providing insights into maximizing the distinctive attributes of biopolymers. Subsequently, the benefits of nature‐inspired Bp‐E‐Skins achieved through heterogeneous composite and structural engineering are highlighted, infusing fresh momentum into the advancement of e‐skins. Then, the promising applications of Bp‐E‐Skins in multisensory functions are summarized, including both local monitoring and remote teleoperation, as well as sustainable energy harvesting that empowers e‐skins. Finally, the remaining fundamental and technical challenges in advancing Bp‐E‐Skins are presented to provoke future designs that emulate and even go beyond human skins.
Potential Energy as Descriptor for Nanoparticle Coalescence
Authors: Grammatikopoulos Panagiotis , Damianidis Aristis , Toulkeridou Evropi
Published: December 2024

Coalescence is a fundamental process in gas‐phase synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs), affecting their structure and resultant properties. Various metrics are currently used to measure the degree of coalescence in atomistic simulation studies, such as the radius of the neck formed between the NPs’ centers of mass, gyration radii, sphericity, and surface area changes. A common characteristic of such metrics is that they typically require additional, often painstaking, data manipulation. Here, a new descriptor is introduced, the Overall Reduced Change in Potential Energy (ORCiPE) between initially uncoalesced and coalesced configurations. To benchmark the descriptor, its definition is analogous to that of the Overall Change in Surface Area, a common and dependable metric. When no phase transition occurred, comparison with other metrics confirms the reliability of ORCiPE in coalescing Au NPs. Considering that potential energy is a standard output property in atomistic simulations, ORCiPE is proposed as a valuable and facile coalescence metric.
Covalent Organic Framework Encapsulating Layered Oxide Perovskite for Efficient Photosynthesis of H2O2
Authors: Teng Yuan , Zhao Jing , Ye Zi‐Ming , Tan Chao‐Wen , Ning Ling‐Ling , Zhou Yi‐Yang , Wu Zhilian , Kuang Dai‐Bin , Li Youji
Published: December 2024

Driving efficient artificial photosynthesis of H2O2 is highly desirable in both academic and industrial fields. Here, a new core–shell Bi3TiNbO9@C4N heterojunction is constructed for efficient photocatalytic H2O2 production by in situ encapsulating an ultrathin layer of covalent organic framework material (C4N) on Aurivillius‐type Bi3TiNbO9 microsheets. The porous C4N layer is found to enhance visible‐light absorption ability and facilitate the adsorption and activation of the reactants and intermediates. The hybrid heterojunction follows an S‐scheme charge transfer with the assistance of a strong internal electric field (IEF), which promotes the spatial separation of photogenerated carriers effectively and maintains their strong redox abilities. As a result, the optimized Bi3TiNbO9@C4N unveils a high H2O2 yield rate of 1.25(2) mmol g−1 h−1 in the absence of sacrificial agents and cocatalyst, 10.9 and 3.5 folds higher than those of pristine Bi3TiNbO9 and C4N catalysts, respectively. This work provides an in situ encapsulating strategy to decorate covalent organic frameworks (COFs) on oxide perovskites for artificial photosynthesis of H2O2, which may stimulate the intensive investigation interests of functional materials/COFs heterojunction materials for various photocatalysis applications.
Voltage Noise Failure Induced by Li Dendritic Micro‐Penetration in All‐Solid‐State Li‐Metal Battery with Composite Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Yun Heejun , Lee Eunji , Han Juyeon , Jang Eunbin , Cho Jinil , Kim Heebae , Lee Jeewon , Min Byeongyun , Lee Jemin , Piao Yuanzhe , Yoo Jeeyoung , Kim Youn Sang
Published: December 2024

All‐solid‐state Li‐metal batteries (ASSLBs) are the most attractive next‐generation batteries due to intrinsic safety and high energy density. Particularly, composite solid electrolyte (CSE)‐based ASSLBs, highly compatible with conventional Li‐ion batteries, are nearing commercialization. However, the understanding of ASSLBs’ failure remains deficient, thereby considerably hindering their advancement. Herein, the unrecognized failing mode of ASSLBs, voltage noise failure (VNF), characterized by irregular charging voltage configuration, is identified using comprehensive techniques, including laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy. The VNF originates from micro‐penetration of Li dendrites, which is demonstrated through direct observation of 3D Li concentration map in CSE. In this phenomenon, the transition metals, dissolved from the cathode, hop to the anode and serve as seeds for dendritic growth in VNF. Inspired by this mechanism and with the aid of DFT calculations, a transition metal scavenging layer is proposed using Prussian blue analogue at the cathode‐CSE interface. Consequently, ASSLBs with transition metal scavenging layer exhibit superior capacity (189 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C, NCM811) and stable cyclability (1200 cycles without failure).
Evolution of Supramolecular Coordination Assemblies Visually Monitored by Time‐Dependent Multicolor Fluorescence
Authors: Xu Hanren , Wang Qian , Qi Zhen , Li Xianghao , Lei Yifan , An Hongyu , Tian He , Qu Da‐Hui
Published: December 2024

Supramolecular coordination assemblies play an important role in both material science and biological systems. Despite significant efforts in their development, most existing examples are thermodynamically controlled, which lack the adaptability and autonomy essential for the creation of advanced materials. In this work, we have developed non‐equilibrium coordination assembly systems that can evolve over time through a combination of thermodynamic and kinetic controls. The introduction of zinc ions resulted in the formation of metastable fiber assemblies in a kinetically trapped state, which autonomously converted to thermodynamically stable nanosheets over time. This evolution process can be regulated by external stimuli and visually monitored by the time‐dependent multicolor fluorescence. The construction strategy was versatile across other various ions such as Ca2+, Mg2+, and Al3+, offering inspiring insights for the design of complex systems that operated both in and out of their thermodynamic equilibrium.
Investigating Interaction Dynamics of an Enantioselective Peptide‐Catalyzed Acylation Reaction
Authors: Brauser Matthias , Petzold Katja , Thiele Christina M.
Published: December 2024

Modern nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods like carbon relaxation dispersion in the rotating frame (13C−R1ρ) and proton chemical exchange saturation transfer (1H‐CEST) are key methods to investigate molecular recognition in biomacromolecules and to detect molecular motions on the μs to s timescale, revealing transient conformational states. Changes in kinetics can be linked to binding, folding, or catalytic events. Here, we investigated whether these methods allow detection of changes in the dynamics of a small, highly selective peptide catalyst during recognition of its enantiomeric substrates. The flexible tetrapeptide Boc‐l‐(π‐Me)−His−AGly‐l−Cha−l‐Phe−OMe, used for the monoacetylation of cycloalkane‐diols, is probed at natural abundance using 13C‐R1ρ and 1H‐CEST. Indeed, we detected differences in dynamics of the peptide upon interaction with the diol. Importantly, these differ depending on the enantiomer of the substrate used. These enantiospecific influences of the substrates on the dynamics of the peptide are rationalized using computational techniques. We find that even though one enantiomer reacts faster, as confirmed by reaction monitoring, the other is more tightly bound in DCM (as confirmed by 1H‐saturation transfer difference (STD) measurements). These findings provide insights into the recognition of the substrates and explain the selectivity differences observed between the solvents toluene and DCM.
Concise Three Step Synthesis of the Bioactive Alkaloid Huajiaosimuline via a Zn(OTf)2‐Promoted Meinwald Rearrangement
Authors: Adessi Tonino G. , Centurión Enzo F. G. , Horra Camila De La , Chocan Camila , Bajicoff Sofía , Blank Viviana , Roguin Leonor , Riveira Martín J.
Published: December 2024

The synthesis of the biologically active alkaloid huajiaosimulne, isolated from the roots of Zanthoxylum simulans, is reported. The natural product was assembled from simple commercial reagents via initial domino Knoevenagel/oxa‐6π‐electrocyclization followed by epoxidation and an epoxide/ketone rearrangement promoted by Zn(OTf)2. In vitro cytotoxicity assays identified natural products huajiaosimuline and simulansine as moderate antiproliferative agents against murine colon cancer CT26 cells.
Flavin‐Dependent Nitroreductases: Privileged Enzymes for Chemical and Photochemical Synthesis
Authors: Russo Sara , Luján Alejandro Prats , Fraaije Marco W. , Poelarends Gerrit J.
Published: December 2024

Nitroreductases, present within both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, form a group of flavin‐dependent enzymes capable of reducing nitro compounds using NAD(P)H as reducing agent. These enzymes have been widely studied due to their diverse roles in bioremediation, cancer therapy, cell ablation, and antimicrobial resistance. In recent times, the versatility of nitroreductases has been expanded toward the synthesis of highly valuable compounds such as aromatic and aliphatic amines, azoxy and azobenzenes, as well as N‐heterocycles. This review examines the biological role and diversity of flavin‐dependent nitroreductases, and highlights their current and potential future application as biocatalysts for the sustainable synthesis of nitrogen‐containing pharmaceutical compounds and bulk chemicals.
Amorphous Al2O3‐Supported NiMo Nanocatalysts: Boosting Type 2 Sites for Hydrodesulfurization Reaction
Authors: Arora Shalini , Khan Rashmi , Sivakumar Sri
Published: December 2024

Herein, we report superior hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalytic activity of ultrasmall NiMo supported on amorphous‐Al2O3 (A‐Al2O3) catalysts with enhanced type 2 sites. A‐Al2O3 was chosen as support because it has lower surface energy, better physicochemical properties, and enhanced acidic sites than the crystalline alumina phase. At 20% metal oxide composition, NiMo supported on A‐Al2O3 catalyst showed weak metal–support interaction, a higher sulfidation degree (80%), and a higher amount of NiMoS sites (14.9 × 1019 sites/mg) with optimum stacking degree (2.5), leading to 1.4 and 1.2 times higher reaction rate constant and turnover frequency (TOF), respectively, than wet‐impregnated NiMo supported on γ‐Al2O3 catalysts. Further, the Density Functional Theory (DFT) study supports the formation of a higher degree of type 2 sites (by confirming weaker active metal interaction for A‐Al2O3 surface than crystalline γ‐Al2O3), which leads to increased HDS catalytic activity.
Influence of External Factors on Recovery and Persistence Parameters of Chemical Weapons–Related Alcohols and Thiols in Concrete Samples
Authors: Rozsypal Tomáš , Pavlík Jakub , Kareš Ondřej , Štoller Jiří
Published: December 2024

The contamination of materials in urban areas by chemical weapons is a critical issue, especially as these materials can serve as key evidence in forensic investigations. Concrete, commonly found in urban environments, is highly porous and can retain chemical residues. However, its alkaline nature accelerates the degradation of chemical warfare agents, complicating the recovery of usable evidence. This study explores the recovery and persistence of alcohols and thiols, final degradation products of nerve and blistering agents, from two types of concrete matrices: lightweight concrete formworks and dense, steel‐reinforced concrete blocks. Using an optimized method, uncrushed concrete fragments (up to 85 g) were extracted with acetone, monitoring two critical parameters: apparent recovery and persistence. The influence of external conditions, such as water addition, temperatures between 5°C and 35°C, and varying airflow speeds (1.7–5.1 m·s−1), was systematically evaluated. Reference conditions involved dried concrete at 22°C with no airflow. The findings revealed that alcohol recovery aligned with the volatility of the compounds, with denser concrete exhibiting lower recoveries but greater persistence. Thiols quickly converted to disulfides. Notably, temperature and moisture had the most profound effects on the recovery and persistence of the chemicals. These results highlight the importance of considering environmental factors when assessing chemical warfare agents and their degradation products in concrete, offering insights relevant to forensic science, environmental safety, and military defense. The study demonstrates how concrete's properties and external conditions can alter the forensic traceability of chemical contaminants.
Beyond Collective Victimhood: How Diverse Conflict Knowledge Relates to Community Cohesion
Authors: Penić Sandra , Elcheroth Guy , Bilali Rezarta
Published: December 2024

In conflict‐affected societies, collective victimization can undermine social cohesion or foster narrow ingroup bonding and parochialism. We examine whether the possibility to know and freely communicate about diverse conflict experiences, which go beyond collective (ingroup) victimhood, can serve as a resource for community cohesion (i.e., community attachment and efficacy). Nationally representative surveys from two conflict‐ridden societies, Sri Lanka (N = 1188) and the Occupied Palestinian Territory (N = 1000), reveal that individuals with broader knowledge of diverse conflict experiences exhibit stronger attachment to their local communities and perceive them as more efficacious, but only when they believe knowledge of these experiences can be shared within their community. Conversely, diverse conflict knowledge is related to a lower sense of community cohesion when individuals perceive diverse conflict experiences as unspeakable in their community. The findings contribute to our understanding of the potential effects of violent conflict on social cohesion and highlight the importance of openness to discuss the full range of conflict experiences.
How Do People Morally Judge Corruption? A Comparison Between the Netherlands and Indonesia
Authors: Aurelia Meta Zahro , van Prooijen Jan‐Willem , Van Lange Paul A. M.
Published: December 2024

Extant research on corruption has uncovered the important role of norms. Yet, little is known about how people view specific acts of corruption in countries that differ in the prevalence of corruption. The present research examines moral judgements of four different types of corrupt acts in a high‐ versus low‐corruption country, thereby providing a critical test of two opposing hypotheses. The descriptive norms approach predicts that citizens of a high‐corruption country will be morally more lenient than citizens of a low‐corruption country. The relative deprivation approach predicts the opposite, that citizens of a high‐corruption country will morally condemn corrupt acts stronger than citizens of a low‐corruption country. Drawing samples from the Netherlands and Indonesia (a low‐ vs. high‐corruption country), two experiments (total N = 477) show that Dutch participants are often more morally permissive towards corruption than Indonesians, although specific results varied for the four types of corruption. This largely supported the relative deprivation approach. In addition, Indonesian participants expressed more disappointment and anger towards corruption than Dutch participants. This research suggests that feeling deprived through regular corruption experiences leads people to condemn corrupt acts more strongly.
Clinical characteristics of 30 children with severe acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Li Weijun , Zhu Danping , Xiao Weiqiang , Liang Defeng , Deng Huarong , Zheng Jipeng , Wang Qiang , Liu Guangming , Li Peiqing
Published: December 2024

Background

To describe the characteristics of pediatric patients with severe COVID‐19 in China and identify the clinical variables associated with cardiovascular involvement, severe neurological complications, and disease prognosis.

Methods

A retrospective surveillance study were conducted from December 1 to 31, 2022, in Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center. Clinical and laboratory characteristics were abstracted by medical record review and were further analyzed according to different manifestations.

Results

A total of 30 children (median age, 27.5 months; 36.7% female) met the criteria for the diagnosis of severe COVID‐19. The top five presented symptoms were fever, convulsions, cough, polypnea, and fatigue. Compared with shock absent patients, the cardiovascular involved patients had different laboratory features, including elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactic acid levels, and abnormalities in coagulation parameters. Higher levels of alanine aminotransferase, AST, lactic dehydrogenase, creatinine, lactic acid, and abnormal coagulant function were more common in patients with severe neurological complications and patients who died during hospitalization. Higher lymphocyte counts and serum sodium concentrations were also observed in non‐survivors.

Conclusion

Severe COVID‐19 pediatric patients had varied clinical characteristics. Laboratory features associated with cardiovascular involvement, severe neurological complications, and adverse outcomes may facilitate early identification of the severe patients.
Recurrent spontaneous ovarian hyperstimulation in a young nonpregnant Chinese woman with Rathke cleft cyst and a KISS1R variant: A rare case report and literature review
Authors: Lin Yueming , Qiao Huimin , Ding Miao , Zhou Shengning , Wu Yingchen
Published: December 2024

Unexplained spontaneous ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (sOHSS) in a nonpregnant young woman is rare, with fewer than five cases documented in the literature. Although four distinct causative types of sOHSS have been identified, some cases remain beyond the scope of our current understanding. A young Chinese woman with sOHSS presented on multiple occasions with sOHSS between the ages of 18.6 and 20.6 years, with acute abdominal discomfort, ascites, hemoconcentration, and pronounced ovarian enlargement coinciding with minor ovulatory anomalies. During the most recent episode, concern regarding a malignant ovarian neoplasm led to emergent unilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy. Remarkably, her menstrual cycle normalized after surgery, with no subsequent recurrence of sOHSS. Subsequent diagnostic evaluations identified a Rathke cleft cyst (RCC) in the pituitary gland and a heterozygous mutation in the KISS1R gene. Neither of these findings corresponded with any of the four informally recognized causes of sOHSS, suggesting a hitherto unrecognized pathology. RCCs may cause OHSS by disrupting the endocrine system, while interactions between the kisspeptin system and estradiol may reach a critical threshold, culminating in sOHSS. This case provides important insights into sOHSS and will hopefully spearhead further research into pituitary anomalies and the intricacies of the kisspeptin system. Clinicians are urged to maintain a high level of vigilance for similar presentations and ensure timely and tailored therapeutic interventions.
Best practices for associational advocacy in the counseling profession: A grounded theory investigation
Authors: Pester Boyd Danielle , Nice Matthew L. , Hays Danica G. , Lenz A. Stephen
Published: December 2024

Through this grounded theory study, the authors present the model for advancing professions (MAP) through advocacy, which identifies how counseling‐related professional organizations develop, implement, assess, and sustain public policy and advocacy initiatives, grounded in 11 participants’ experiences across six professional associations. Although previous models supported the work of individual advocacy within the field of counseling, the MAP through advocacy provides a clear and robust associational infrastructure and a set of best practices to guide counseling organizations in public policy and advocacy initiatives that advance the profession. Implications for the counseling profession and how the model can inform and enhance the mission of the ACA, and its divisions, regions, and state organizations are discussed.
Opening wedge high tibial osteotomy yields comparable to superior outcomes to unicompartmental knee arthroplasty at 2 years of follow‐up in patients suffering from Ahlbäck III knee osteoarthritis: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Onishi Shintaro , Jacquet Christophe , Nakayama Hiroshi , Argenson Jean Noël , Ollivier Matthieu
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To compare the clinical outcomes between opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) in patients with Ahlbäck Grade 3 medial compartmental knee osteoarthritis (OA) using a propensity score matching (PSM) analysis.

Methods

This retrospective study included all OWHTO and UKA procedures performed between 2016 and 2021 at a single institution. Inclusion criteria were patients diagnosed with medial knee OA, specifically Ahlbäck Grade 3 arthritis. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Radiographic parameters included hip–knee–ankle (HKA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA) and joint line convergence angle (JLCA). Primary outcomes included improvement in clinical scores at 3, 12 and 24 months post‐operatively. Secondary outcomes included radiographic parameters, complication rates and re‐intervention rates. One‐to‐one PSM was conducted based on gender, age and preoperative KOOS pain scores.

Results

After evaluating eligibility using PSM, a total of 50 knees in the UKA group and 50 knees in the OWHTO group were included. There was no significant difference between groups in preoperative overall KOOS, but the UKA group had better overall KOOS at 3 months (p < 0.001). However, the overall KOOS at 12 and 24 months were superior in the OWHTO group compared to the UKA group (12 months; 84.6 ± 4.9 vs. 86.4 ± 2.9, p = 0.022, 24 months; 84.9 ± 5.3 vs. 87.0 ± 3.7, p = 0.022). As for post‐operative radiological parameters, HKA, MPTA, LDFA and JLCA were higher in the OWHTO group at 24 months post‐operatively. No significant differences were noted in the rates of complication or re‐intervention between groups.

Conclusions

OWHTO can provide outcomes equal to or better than UKA at 24 months post‐operatively in patients with advanced knee OA.

Level of Evidence

Level Ⅲ, Prospective designed retrospective comparative study.
Vocal cord dysfunction: Does laryngeal adduction on laryngoscopy predict disease severity and response to laryngeal retraining therapy?
Authors: Ahmadian David , Wehbi Nader , Gleadhill Claire M. , Monahan Natalie , Gallego Charles J. , Skirko Jonathan R. , Yip Helena T.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) is a complex disorder characterized by episodic adduction of the vocal folds during inspiration and expiration, which can lead to dyspnea, wheezing, cough, and acute‐onset respiratory distress. Currently, there is a lack of standardized criteria among treating physicians across multiple disciplines, including otolaryngologists, pulmonologists, allergists, and speech and language pathologists, for diagnosis and treatment of VCD, although laryngeal‐respiratory retraining therapy (LRT) has emerged as the preferred treatment modality.

Objective

In the present study, we examined the efficacy of LRT in patients presenting with a clinical diagnosis of VCD in the presence and absence of laryngeal adduction on laryngoscopy.

Results

Overall, 74.1% of the cohort showed a response to LRT, of which 62.1% were partial and 12.1% were significant responses. When comparing between patients with and without laryngeal adduction on laryngoscopy, there were no significant differences in the number of sessions of LRT undertaken, mean time to response, and overall response rate between the groups.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that LRT should be utilized for all patients presenting with symptoms of VCD, even in the absence of laryngeal adduction on laryngoscopy.
Genotype–Phenotype Spectrum of 52 Mexican Patients With Fabry Disease: A Novel GLA Variant With Atypical Phenotype
Authors: Kimball Tamara N. , Rivero‐García Pamela , Argaiz Eduardo R. , Gaytan‐Arocha Jorge Eduardo , Uribe Norma Ofelia Uribe , Suárez Juan José Morales
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Fabry disease (FD) is a rare lysosomal type 3 disorder with an X‐linked inheritance pattern caused by pathogenic variants in the GLA gene. This study aimed to describe the genotype and phenotype of 52 Mexican patients with FD.

Methods

We included 12 patients with clinical and molecular diagnosis of FD treated at our institution and 40 FD Mexican patients already reported in the literature.

Results

The most frequent manifestations were acroparesthesias (71.2%), hypohidrosis or anhidrosis (48.1%), heat intolerance (46.2%), and proteinuria (42.3%). Renal and neurological manifestations were more prevalent in males than females. Cardiac involvement included hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and Wolf–Parkinson–White arrhythmia. Cornea verticillata was seen in 14 patients (26.9%) and angiokeratomas in 15 (28.8%). We identified 14 variants in the GLA gene in Mexican patients with FD. We found a novel variant GLA c.122C>G that causes an atypical FD phenotype with predominantly neurological involvement in two unrelated patients, one of them with a forthright clinical and radiological overlap of Multiple Sclerosis and normal biological biomarkers, thus requiring a renal biopsy that helped confirm the diagnosis of FD.

Conclusions

The genotype and phenotype of Mexican patients with FD are similar to other populations. Atypical phenotype of FD, such as the one associated with the novel variant c.122C>G, can be a diagnostic challenge, as it can be mixed up with MS. Our findings confirm the limitations of noninvasive diagnostic methods and the necessity of the renal biopsy when the clinical suspicion of FD is high.
A Novel Mutation Located in the N‐Terminal Domain of MYO15A Caused Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Wang Yanli , Liu Zengping , Li Yong , Nie Zhipeng , Xu Baicheng , Zhu Yiming , Duan Shihong , Chen Xingjian , Tan Huan , Dang Jiong , Guan Minxin , Guo Yufen
Published: December 2024

Background

MYO15A is one of the common genes of severe‐to‐profound sensorineural deafness. Mutations in this gene can cause both pre‐ and post‐lingual hearing losses. In this study, a novel MYO15A variant (c.2482C>T) was identified to be associated with autosomal recessive non‐syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) in a Chinese Uighur family.

Methods

To examine the effects of the MYO15A mutation on the morphology and function of the derived hair cell‐like cells, two iPSCs were generated separately from the proband and a mutation‐negative family member and those were then induced to hair cell‐like cells.

Results

Results showed that this homozygous MYO15A mutation (PVS1 + PM2 + PP1 + PP3), which is located in the N‐terminal domain, displayed significant differences in the morphology and function of hair cell‐like cells between the proband and the normal control, although it had no effect on the totipotency of iPSCs.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that the novel variant c.2482C>T in the MYO15A gene may cause inner ear hair cell dysfunction and audiological disorders in this family.
Analytik: Tomographie mit Eisenoxid
Authors: Rösch Esther S.
Published: December 2024

Bei der Magnetpartikel‐Bildgebung (MPI) werden magnetische Partikel in die Blutbahn injiziert und sichtbar gemacht. Das geht schneller und ist teils weniger schädlich als Techniken, die aktuell in der Klinik eingesetzt werden. Bis MPI soweit ist, wird geforscht: Wie sich kürzlich herausstellte, lassen sich die Partikel in veränderter Umgebung wiederfinden, wenn sie in einer Polymerhohlkugel eingeschlossen sind.
Mehr Wasserstoff mit weniger Iridium
Authors: Birth Arne , Sievers Gustav
Published: December 2024

Grünen Wasserstoff mit erneuerbaren Energien herzustellen, ist derzeit unökonomisch. Eine neue Methode, um Membran‐Elektronen‐Einheiten für die Wasserelektrolyse zu fertigen, könnte helfen.
Graduate School zu Nucleinsäurechemie
Authors: Richert Clemens
Published: December 2024

Mitte September trafen sich etwa 50 Promovierende der Nucleinsäurechemie zum siebten Doktorandenseminar der Deutschen Nucleinsäurechemiegemeinschaft e.V. (DNG) in Bad Herrenalb. Die Veranstaltung findet alle zwei Jahre statt; dieses Mal schloss sie Promovierende aus Tschechien ein und war auf Englisch. Zum Programm gehörten vier Kurzworkshops und drei Methodenvorträge. Außerdem hielten 11 Doktorand:innen Vorträge und 19 gaben Poster‐Flashtalks. Die Themen reichten von therapeutischen Nucleotiden bis Einzelmolekülvisualisierung.
Risk of developing neuroblastoma influenced by maternal stressful life events during pregnancy and congenital pathologies
Authors: Benavent Nuria , Cañete Adela , Moreno Lucas , Gros Luis , Verdú‐Amorós Jaime , Salinas Jose Antonio , Navarro Samuel , Álvaro Tomas , Carbonell‐Asins Juan Antonio , Noguera Rosa
Published: December 2024

Objective

A retrospective multicenter study to investigate the potential association between descriptive information related to pregnancy history and perinatal features and the risk of neuroblastoma (NB) in children.

Study design

Data from 56 mothers during 105 pregnancies (56 cases of NB, 49 control siblings) were collected through face‐to‐face or telephone interviews with mothers of children diagnosed with NB, along with information extracted from Health System databases. Descriptive information related to (a) pregnancy history as maternal stressful life events with perceived distress during pregnancy, weight gain, alcohol and tobacco consumption, mode of delivery and gestational age; and (b) perinatal features as congenital pathologies, weight at birth and type of feeding were examined to identify potential risk factors for NB.

Results

Stressful life events during pregnancy and certain congenital pathologies were independently associated with NB risk. No significant associations were found between other features. Breastfeeding rates were similar between cases and controls.

Conclusion

Our results underscore the importance of providing support and care to pregnant women to reduce potential stressors. Further research is needed to better understand the influence of dysbiosis and mitochondrial‐nuclear communication impairment as underlying mechanisms of maternal stress during pregnancy and presence of congenital pathologies in order to confirm them as potential risk factors for NB.
Sí se puede: The enduring legacy of Mexico on wine and politics
Authors: Chitwood Daniel H. , Delaye Luis , Domínguez‐Castro Cristina , Hernández‐López Antonio , López‐Medellín Xavier , Mojica‐Muñoz Diana Margarita , Rougon‐Cardoso Alejandra
Published: December 2024

Societal Impact Statement

The cultural significance of the grapevine is undeniable. However, we fail to acknowledge how the grapevine has and continues to influence the most pressing political questions of our time. From the beginning of the Conquest, Indigenous peoples were forced to plant the vine, Spain burned the vines Miguel Hidalgo used to teach the poor, and César Chávez and the Delano grape strike demanded justice for agricultural laborers. From the Grito de Dolores to Sí se puede, we demonstrate how the continuing relationship between Mexico and the grapevine influences debates surrounding labor, immigration, and human rights in the United States and throughout the world. To enhance the reach of this work, a Spanish language version of the paper is available in the Supporting Information (see Translation_ES).

The wild grapevine species (Vitis spp.) that comprise the pedigrees of rootstocks, the Americas as the source (and solution) to the Phylloxera crisis that decimated European vineyards, and California as a premier wine‐growing region are the topics that usually frame the history of grapes in North America. This Anglo‐American perspective ignores that domesticated grape varieties were first introduced to North America in what is now Mexico and the singular contributions of Mexican labor to the California wine economy that continue to influence politics. Here, we highlight the neglected history of grapevines in Mexico and argue that the politics of labor that played out during the Conquest never ceased and still shape debates surrounding immigration. Beginning with Hernán Cortés, Indigenous peoples were forced to plant grapevines and when they were successful, they were abruptly forbidden by Spain to grow grapes. This interference influenced Miguel Hidalgo, who taught the poor viticulture as a trade and who would lead the Mexican War of Independence and pay with his life. The grapevine continued its journey north to California, where Franciscans established the missions and cultivated the Mission grapes, which had lasting impacts on the genetics of grapevine varieties. Finally, it was the Delano grape strike that coalesced César Chávez and the United Farm Workers to demand justice for agricultural laborers that is the foundation of the California wine economy and still shapes the current political debate of immigration, labor, and human rights between the United States and Mexico.
Bayesian Decision Curve Analysis With Bayesdca
Authors: Netto Flores Cruz Giuliano , Korthauer Keegan
Published: December 2024

Clinical decisions are often guided by clinical prediction models or diagnostic tests. Decision curve analysis (DCA) combines classical assessment of predictive performance with the consequences of using these strategies for clinical decision‐making. In DCA, the best decision strategy is the one that maximizes the net benefit: the net number of true positives (or negatives) provided by a given strategy. Here, we employ Bayesian approaches to DCA, addressing four fundamental concerns when evaluating clinical decision strategies: (i) which strategies are clinically useful, (ii) what is the best available decision strategy, (iii) which of two competing strategies is better, and (iv) what is the expected net benefit loss associated with the current level of uncertainty. While often consistent with frequentist point estimates, fully Bayesian DCA allows for an intuitive probabilistic interpretation framework and the incorporation of prior evidence. We evaluate the methods using simulation and provide a comprehensive case study. Software implementation is available in the bayesDCA R package. Ultimately, the Bayesian DCA workflow may help clinicians and health policymakers adopt better‐informed decisions.
Efficient Risk Assessment of Time‐to‐Event Targets With Adaptive Information Transfer
Authors: Ding Jie , Li Jialiang , Xie Ping , Wang Xiaoguang
Published: December 2024

Using informative sources to enhance statistical analysis in target studies has become an increasingly popular research topic. However, cohorts with time‐to‐event outcomes have not received sufficient attention, and external studies often encounter issues of incomparability due to population heterogeneity and unmeasured risk factors. To improve individualized risk assessments, we propose a novel methodology that adaptively borrows information from multiple incomparable sources. By extracting aggregate statistics through transitional models applied to both the external sources and the target population, we incorporate this information efficiently using the control variate technique. This approach eliminates the need to load individual‐level records from sources directly, resulting in low computational complexity and strong privacy protection. Asymptotically, our estimators of both relative and baseline risks are more efficient than traditional results, and the power of covariate effects testing is much enhanced. We demonstrate the practical performance of our method via extensive simulations and a real case study.
Generalized Estimating Equations for Survival Data With Dependent Censoring
Authors: Yu Lili , Liu Liang
Published: December 2024

Independent censoring is usually assumed in survival data analysis. However, dependent censoring, where the survival time is dependent on the censoring time, is often seen in real data applications. In this project, we model the vector of survival time and censoring time marginally through semiparametric heteroscedastic accelerated failure time models and model their association by the vector of errors in the model. We show that this semiparametric model is identified, and the generalized estimating equation approach is extended to estimate the parameters in this model. It is shown that the estimators of the model parameters are consistent and asymptotically normal. Simulation studies are conducted to compare it with the estimation method under a parametric model. A real dataset from a prostate cancer study is used for illustration of the new proposed method.
Investigating Gene Delivery Efficiency of Poly(β‐amino ester) Derived From Poly(ethylene glycol) Diacrylate
Authors: Ngo Dang Bao Tram , Dong Thi Anh Ngoc , Nguyen Khanh Vi , Kieu Trong Nghia , Nguyen Thi Thu Hoai , Thach Ut Dong
Published: December 2024

Poly(β‐amino ester) (PβAE)‐based polymers hold promise for bacterial gene transfer due to their ability to form stable complexes with genetic material and facilitate efficient delivery into bacterial cells. These polymers are easily modified to improve uptake and protect DNA or RNA from degradation, providing a safer, more controlled alternative to traditional methods like chemical transformation or electroporation. In this study, we evaluated the gene transformation efficiency of cationic PβAE polymer, which was synthesized through an aza‐Michael addition reaction between piperazine and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate. Competent cells from E. coli strain DH5α were prepared with the optimized method using Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions. Different concentrations of the polymer were mixed with pRSET‐EmGFP before transforming into competent cells through the heat shock method. Transformed cells were checked on medium containing ampicillin, and by using colony PCR, transformation efficiency was calculated. Based on our findings, we observed a successful transformation of the EmGFP gene in case of having the polymer. Furthermore, the PβAE at high concentrations (20–100 ng µL−1) increased transformation efficiency more than twice as compared to the case of no polymer added. In conclusion, PβAE can effectively increase transformation efficiency.