bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RUNX1::MIR99AHG Chimera in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Andersen Kristin , Tjønnfjord Geir E. , Ramslien L. Frode , Panagopoulos Ioannis
Published: September 2024

RUNX1 fuses with over 70 different partner genes in hematological neoplasms. While common RUNX1 chimeras have been extensively studied and their prognosis is well established, our current understanding of less common RUNX1 chimeras is limited. Here, we present a case of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with a rare RUNX1 chimera. Bone marrow cells obtained at diagnosis from a 71‐year‐old patient diagnosed with AML‐M5 were studied using G‐banding, fluorescence in situ hybridization, array comparative genomic hybridization, RNA sequencing, PCR, and Sanger sequencing. Combined findings from the abovementioned assays suggested three cytogenetic clones: one with a normal karyotype, one with inv(21)(q21q22), and one with two inv(21)(q21q22). The molecular analysis revealed the fusion of RUNX1 with MIR99AHG (at 21q21.1), further supporting the presence of an inv(21)(q21q22). The present case is the third reported AML harboring a RUNX1::MIR99AHG chimera. Similar to the two previously described AML patients, our case also had an FLT3 aberration.
Petrogenesis of Mafic Dykes in the Beishan Orogen and Its Implications for Subduction of Liuyuan Ocean: Constraints From Geochemistry and Sr‐Nd‐Hf Isotopes
Authors: Peng Ren , Zhang Guishan , Zhao Zhi‐Qi
Published: September 2024

Subduction zones are the primary locations of material exchange between the crust and mantle, and thus, arc igneous rocks are extensively examined to explore crust–mantle interactions during oceanic subduction. In this study, the Sr‐Nd‐Hf isotopic compositions and elemental characteristics of the Yinwaxia mafic dykes from the Shibanshan–Huaniushan arc in the southern Beishan Orogen were investigated to determine their petrogenesis and explore crust–mantle interactions during the subduction of the Liuyuan Ocean. The dykes were subdivided into two groups based on their geochemical composition and spatial distribution. Group I dykes in the northern Yinwaxia area possess depleted light rare earth elements and slightly enriched large‐ion lithophile elements, indicated by relatively high ratios of Rb/Nb (1.4–82), Ba/Nb (6–408), and Cs/Nb (0.13–2.74), and low ratios of Th/Yb (0.03–0.39), Th/Nb (0.10–0.83), and (La/Yb)
N
(0.33–1.36). Further isotopic composition study revealed that low values of (87Sr/86Sr)
i
(0.7028–0.7052), and high values of ε
Nd(t) (4.9–9.1) and ε
Hf(t) (13.2–24.0), which suggests that the mantle source of Group I dykes was metasomatized by aqueous fluids. In Group II dykes located in the southern Yinwaxia area, enrichment of light rare‐earth elements and large‐ion lithophile elements was observed, featuring lower ratios of Rb/Nb (0.5–16.7), Ba/Nb (13–51), and Cs/Nb (0.15–1.56), but higher ratios of Th/Yb (0.25–2.64), Th/Nb (0.19–1.49), and (La/Yb)
N
(1.09–2.98) compared to Group I. Furthermore, Group II dykes exhibited higher values of (87Sr/86Sr)
i
(0.7051–0.7077) and lower ε
Nd(t) (−1.7 to +3.8) and ε
Hf(t) (3.7–9.4) isotopic compositions, which suggests that the slab fluids involved in their mantle source were dominated by sediment‐derived melts. The difference between the mafic dykes from Groups I and II suggests the addition of steadily increasing amounts of sediment‐derived melt in their mantle source; moreover, the increased (La/Yb)
N
ratio and decreased ε
Nd(t) with increasing distance from the Liuyuan mélange are records of the spatial evolution of the composition of the slab fluids during the oceanic subduction of Liuyuan Ocean in the early Permian.
Activating mutations remodel the chromatin accessibility landscape to drive distinct regulatory networks in KMT2A‐rearranged acute leukemia
Authors: Zhang Qirui , Falqués‐Costa Ton , Pilheden Mattias , Sturesson Helena , Ovlund Tina , Rissler Vendela , Castor Anders , Marquart Hanne V. H. , Lausen Birgitte , Fioretos Thoas , Hyrenius‐Wittsten Axel , Hagström‐Andersson Anna K.
Published: September 2024

Activating FLT3 and RAS mutations commonly occur in leukemia with KMT2A‐gene rearrangements (KMT2A‐r). However, how these mutations cooperate with the KMT2A‐r to remodel the epigenetic landscape is unknown. Using a retroviral acute myeloid leukemia (AML) mouse model driven by KMT2A::MLLT3, we show that FLT3ITD, FLT3N676K, and NRASG12D remodeled the chromatin accessibility landscape and associated transcriptional networks. Although the activating mutations shared a common core of chromatin changes, each mutation exhibits unique profiles with most opened peaks associating with enhancers in intronic or intergenic regions. Specifically, FLT3N676K and NRASG12D rewired similar chromatin and transcriptional networks, distinct from those mediated by FLT3ITD. Motif analysis uncovered a role for the AP‐1 family of transcription factors in KMT2A::MLLT3 leukemia with FLT3N676K and NRASG12D, whereas Runx1 and Stat5a/Stat5b were active in the presence of FLT3ITD. Furthermore, transcriptional programs linked to immune cell regulation were activated in KMT2A‐r AML expressing NRASG12D or FLT3N676K, and the expression of NKG2D‐ligands on KMT2A‐r cells rendered them sensitive to CAR T cell‐mediated killing. Human KMT2A‐r AML cells could be pharmacologically sensitized to NKG2D‐CAR T cells by treatment with the histone deacetylase inhibitor LBH589 (panobinostat) which caused upregulation of NKG2D‐ligand levels. Co‐treatment with LBH589 and NKG2D‐CAR T cells enabled robust AML cell killing, and the strongest effect was observed for cells expressing NRASG12D. Finally, the results were validated and extended to acute leukemia in infancy. Combined, activating mutations induced mutation‐specific changes in the epigenetic landscape, leading to changes in transcriptional programs orchestrated by specific transcription factor networks.
Divergent Synthesis of Trifluoromethyl Ketones via Photoredox Activation of Halotrifluoroacetones
Authors: Giri Rahul , Kissling Mathias , Zhilin Egor , Fernandes Anthony J. , Ordan Quentin E. L. , Katayev Dmitry
Published: September 2024

Fluorine's high electronegativity, lipophilicity, and metabolic stability make it a valuable element for drug design and development. Consequently, significant synthetic efforts have focused on introducing fluorine and fluorinated motifs into organic molecules, with the synthesis of trifluoromethyl ketones (TFMKs) recently attracting considerable attention. Building on our ongoing research on radical organofluorine chemistry, we present herein the divergent synthesis of trifluoromethyl ketones directly from olefins using readily available chloro‐ and bromotrifluoroacetone as synthetic precursors of the trifluoroacetonyl radical under photoredox catalysis. Mechanistic studies revealed that the divergence is attained through radical polar crossover (RPC) and hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) mechanisms.
Evaluation of Pro‐BNP biomarker in heart failure patients and its relationship with complete blood count parameters: A case–control study
Authors: Torfi Ekhlas , Bahreiny Seyed S. , Saki Najmaldin , Khademi Reyhane , Sarbazjoda Ehsan , Nezhad Inas A. , Aghaei Mojtaba
Published: September 2024

Background and aims

Heart failure (HF) is a growing global health concern. N‐terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐pro‐BNP) is an established biomarker for ventricular dysfunction in heart failure (HF). This case–control study examined the relationship between brain natriuretic peptide (Pro‐BNP) levels and complete blood count (CBC) parameters in HF patients and healthy controls, exploring the utility of CBC as a supplementary diagnostic tool for HF.

Methods

The study included 89 participants, divided into 42 HF patients with diagnosed HF (patient group) and 47 healthy individuals (control group). Pro‐BNP levels were measured alongside a comprehensive CBC panel, including parameters such as white blood cell count, hemoglobin levels, and platelet count. Demographic, clinical characteristics, and CBC parameters were compared between the two groups, with statistical analyses performed to identify any significant associations.

Results

The analysis demonstrated that HF patients had significantly higher Pro‐BNP levels than the control subjects, indicating a strong association between Pro‐BNP levels and HF (1052.65 [196.56] vs. 2500.34 [1105.90], p < 0.001). Moreover, significant differences in CBC parameters, such as platelet count: 246.96 (82.72) versus 206.45 (57.20), p = 0.009; mean corpuscular volume (MCV): 83.74 (5.86) versus 87.12 (4.60), p < 0.00; and red cell distribution width: 13.47 (1.29) versus 14.28 (1.35), p < 0.001) were observed, with the patient group showing altered levels indicative of cardiac stress and inflammation. Correlation analysis further established the relationship between Pro‐BNP levels and CBC parameters, with notable correlations observed with MCV (0.250, p < 0.020) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin levels (0.246, p < 0.045). These findings suggest a complex interplay between Pro‐BNP levels and CBC parameters, underscoring the potential of CBC parameters as auxiliary diagnostic markers in HF.

Conclusion

Pro‐BNP exhibits clinical relevance in diagnosing cardiovascular dysfunction, with elevated levels and distinct hematological profiles in HF patients. Pro‐BNP's diagnostic and predictive capabilities for hematocrit and platelet count support its use in risk assessment and treatment decisions for HF.
Response surface optimization of heat transfer in magnetic nanofluid flow within a permeable square enclosure: Corrugated wall and Joule heating effects
Authors: Umavathi Jawali C. , Sheremet Mikhail A. , Subray Ananth
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive numerical computation of the natural convection of magnetized permeable nanoliquids contained within a composite wavy cabinet. The domain of interest includes two parts. One portion is filled with a nanofluid fluid saturated with a porous matrix, whereas the other region is filled solely with the nanofluid. The finite element approach is utilized to solve the coupled highly nonlinear partial differential equations numerically. A selected set of graphical results illustrating the effects of frequency, amplitude, Rayleigh number, Hartmann number, Darcy number, and different porous materials on the streamlines and isotherms are presented. The variations in these parameters enable us to examine the impact on Nusselt number, flow patterns, and thermal performance. The addition of a response surface technique based on sensitivity analysis is a major innovation in this study, and the findings reveal intricate interactions between magnetohydrodynamics (MHDs), Joule heating, and porous medium effects, providing valuable insights into optimizing thermal management and energy efficiency in advanced MHD systems.
Nomogram to predict methotrexate treatment success in ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Zeevi Gil , Bercovich Or , Haring Yael , Nahum Shir , Romano Asaf , Houri Ohad , Yeoshoua Effi , Eitan Ram , Peled Yoav , Krissi Haim
Published: September 2024

Objective

To evaluate clinical factors prior to methotrexate (MTX) treatment for tubal ectopic pregnancy and to apply the data to a prediction model for treatment success.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted during 2014–2022. Of the 808 patients with a tubal ectopic pregnancy, 372 with a β‐hCG level less than 5000 IU/L were treated with a single dose of MTX and were included in this study. Pretreatment factors, including patient characteristics, initial β‐hCG level, and sonographic parameters, were compared between those who achieved complete resolution and those who needed additional MTX or surgical intervention. A logistic regression model and multivariable analysis were used to predict success. A graphic nomogram was generated to represent the model.

Results

Complete resolution of the ectopic pregnancy was achieved in 290 (77.9%) patients after a single dose of MTX. A second dose or surgical intervention was required for 82 (22.0%): 49 (13.2%) received a second dose of MTX and 33 (8.9%) underwent laparoscopic salpingectomy. In the MTX Success group compared to the MTX Failure group, the median β‐hCG levels were lower (746 vs 1347 IU/L, P < 0.001) and the presence of a yolk sac and a fetal pole were less frequent. The predictive model, based on significant variables, includes initial β‐hCG concentration and the visibility of a yolk sac or fetal pole. Analysis with cross‐validation techniques revealed that the model was both accurate and discriminative.

Conclusion

A predictive nomogram was developed to predict the success of single‐dose MTX treatment for tubal ectopic pregnancy.
Severe neutropenia caused by palliative radiation therapy in a case of metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer
Authors: Maesaka Fumisato , Tomioka Atsushi , Matsushita Chie , Horikawa Noriko , Fujimoto Kiyohide
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Radiotherapy for widespread bone metastasis results in severe hematological toxicity.

Case presentation

A 71‐year‐old male was diagnosed with metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer (cT4N1M1b) and treated with apalutamide and degarelix. Concurrently, palliative radiation therapy was sequentially initiated for the 1st, 5th, and 10th thoracic vertebrae and right femur. On day 35 after treatment, severe neutropenia necessitated treatment interruption and required 23 days for neutrophil recovery with a granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor agent.

Conclusion

Owing to the severe hematologic toxicity caused by extensive radiation therapy for multiple bone lesions, treatment prioritization by lesion and avoiding irradiation of the red bone marrow is essential.
Theoretical study on the luminescent and reaction mechanism of dansyl‐based fluorescence probe for detecting hydrogen sulfide
Authors: Li Huixue , Wang Yvhua , Pan Sujuan , Wang Changqing , Liu Yanzhi , Yuan Kun , Lv Lingling , Li Zhifeng
Published: September 2024

The photophysical and photochemical properties of the sulfonyl azide‐based fluorescent probe DNS–Az and its reduction product DNS by hydrogen sulfide (H2S) have been investigated theoretically. The calculated results indicated the first excited states of DNS–Az was dark state (oscillator strength less than 0.03) and DNS was bright state (oscillator strength more than 0.1), which determined the predicted radiative rate kr of DNS–Az was much smaller than that of DNS, meanwhile, due to more larger reorganization energy of DNS–Az, its predicted internal conversion rate kic was four times larger than that of DNS; moreover, owing to the effect of heavy atom from sulfur atom in DNS–Az, its predicted intersystem crossing rate kisc was seven times larger than that of DNS, thus the calculated fluorescence quantum yield of DNS–Az was only 2.16% and that of DNS was more than 77.2%, the above factors is the basis for DNS–Az molecule to function as a fluorescent probe. Regarding both DNS‐Az and DNS molecules, their maximum Huang‐Rhys factors, which are less than unity, signify the reliability of 0–0 transitions between their S0 and S1 electronic states. In addition, for DNS, our simulated emission peak of the 0–0 transition is 515 nm, a value that exhibits enhanced accuracy and coherence when compared to the experimental datum of 528 nm. The reaction mechanism of DNS‐Az generating DNS by H2S has been investigated too, according to the potential energy profile, we found that the fluorescent probe firstly protonated, then this organic ion broke down into DNS with the aid of a proton.
The neuropsychology of early childhood and infancy
Authors: Megari Kalliopi , Miliadi Vasiliki
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Piaget's theory emphasizes the biological structures children utilize to make sense of their environment and based on those experiences become able to adapt. Many factors can intervene in the gradual and complex process of development, causing an array of issues both acute and chronic.

Method

Several studies have found that disability in the early months is a strong predictor of cognitive impairment in preschool. The presence of early functional anomalies may represent developmental delay and/or neurodevelopmental disorders.

Results

Understanding the risk factors and detecting such signs early on is important to prevent or minimize later cognitive, behavioral, and psychosocial problems. The study aims to emphasize how critical the early years are to a child's future cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development as well as their overall well‐being.

Discussion

In addition, the fact that crucial developmental stages can be hampered or obstructed by a variety of factors is highlighted.
Synthesis, Fluorescence Properties, Molecular Docking Studies, and Analysis of the Crystalline Structure of the Novel 5‐Imino‐7‐Aryl‐5H‐Thiazolo[3.2‐a]Pyrimidine‐6‐Carbonitrile and Its Derivatives
Authors: Touati Yousseuf , Benabdallah Mohammed , Merabat Ihcen , Sejas Julio A. , Hassaine Ridha , Djafri Ahmed , Bouchama Abdelghani , Chouaih Abdelkader , Vázquez‐Tato M. P. , Choukchou‐Braham Noureddine
Published: September 2024

This study describes a simple, inexpensive, and effective method for the synthesis of new 5‐imino‐7‐aryle‐5H‐thiazolo[3,2‐a]pyrimidine‐3‐carbonitrile derivatives 4a‐e using a green procedure that does not require the use of heat or a base, creating a strategy that meets both economic and environmental demands. Various synthesized products were characterized via diverse techniques such as 1H‐NMR, infrared (FT‐IR), Mass spectroscopy (MS), and single crystal X‐ray diffraction. Using a fluorescence spectrometer, the 5‐imino‐7‐phenyle‐5H‐thiazolo[3.2‐a]pyrimidine‐3‐carbonitrile 4a has been tested as a potent fluorescent agent in mixture of DMSO/Water at 10−4 M in one hand, and on the other hand the results of our fluorescence evaluation studies with metal ions (Pb(II), Ba(II), Cd(II), Ni(II), Mn(II), Hg(II), Zn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Cu(II), La(II), Cr(III), and Fe(III)) have shown that this compound exhibits a turn‐on and turn‐off of the fluorescence to 4a compound with these metals, what forms poor to good interaction by these ions. This result represents the emergence of a new potential ligand for the two heavy cations Cd(II) and Pb(II), which are toxic and polluting, and whose detection is currently of high interest. As well, In the molecular docking evaluation study, it was determined that the 4e molecule has an exceptional ability to inhibit the binding energy of the tubulin protein by −9.13 kcal/mmol, compared to other compounds. The results demonstrate the possibilities for a novel oral medication application.
Synthesis and Anticancer Evaluation of Tryptanthrin‐1,2,3‐Triazole Hybrids
Authors: Meenakshy C. B. , Sruthi Sudheendran Leena , Jayasree E. G. , Sandhya Karakkadparambil Sankaran , Deepthi Ani
Published: September 2024

Synthesis of 18 tryptanthrin‐triazole hybrid molecules by employing Cu(I)‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne [3 + 2] cycloaddition (CuAAC) between tryptanthrin oxime O‐propargyl ether and aromatic azides is described here. The exclusive formation of E‐triazoles was confirmed by theoretical studies using the M06‐2x/6–311++G(d,p) level. From the synthesized triazoles, four of them have been selected and were subjected to in vitro anticancer activity studies against selected cell lines. Furthermore, in silico studies have been conducted for the most active compound, 5h, and it suggested that various noncovalent interactions and one conventional hydrogen bond enhance the stability of the complex (binding affinity = −11.29 kcal/mol). ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion and Toxicity) studies also prove the increased biological potency of 5h.
An Expedited Qualitative Profiling of Free Amino Acids in Plant Tissues Using Liquid Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS) in Conjunction With MS‐DIAL
Authors: Kaachra Anish , Tamang Anish , Hallan Vipin
Published: September 2024

The estimation of relative levels of amino acids is crucial for understanding various biological processes in plants, including photosynthesis, stress tolerance, and the uptake and translocation of nutrients. A wide range of liquid chromatography (LC; HPLC/UHPLC)‐based methods is available for measuring the quantity of amino acids in plants. Additionally, the coupling of LC with mass spectrometry (MS) significantly enhanced the robustness of existing chromatographic methods used for amino acid quantification. However, accurate annotation and integration of mass peaks can be challenging for plant biologists with limited experience in analyzing MS data, especially in studies involving large datasets with multiple treatments and/or replicates. Further, there are instances when the experiment demands an overall view of the amino acids profile rather than focusing on absolute quantification. The present protocol provides a detailed LC–MS method for obtaining a qualitative amino acids profile using MS‐DIAL, a versatile and user‐friendly program for processing MS data. Free amino acids were extracted from the leaves of control and Tomato leaf curl Palampur virus (ToLCPalV)‐infected Nicotiana benthamiana plants. Extracted amino acids were derivatized and separated using UHPLC‐QTOF, with each amino acid subsequently identified by aligning mass data with a custom text library created in MS‐DIAL. Further, MS‐DIAL was employed for internal standard‐based normalization to obtain a qualitative profile of 15 amino acids in control and virus‐infected plants. The outlined method aims to simplify the processing of MS data to quickly assess any modulation in amino acid levels in plants with a higher degree of confidence.
Unraveling Stacking Transitions in Twisted Bilayer Graphene: Insights From Intralayer and Interlayer Processes
Authors: Souibgui M.
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we investigate a twisted bilayer graphene on an h‐BN substrate. The graphene is grown using high‐quality chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and subsequently transferred onto the h‐BN substrate. Our focus is on the stacking transition within the bilayer system, based on fluctuations in both intralayer and interlayer processes. Our findings reveal that post‐annealing induces alterations in the electron–phonon interaction, corresponding to the spatially dependent stacking changes in the bilayer structure. This makes it possible to modify the electronic band structure of graphene and subsequently all its optoelectronic properties.
Effect of chitosan on thermal gelling properties of pork myofibrillar protein and its mechanism
Authors: Zhang Huiyun , Li Xinling , Zhang Ziye , Jiang An , Bai QiaoQiao
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated that the addition of chitosan can improve the quality and functional properties of meat products. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the effect and mechanism of the addition of chitosan on the gel properties of myofibrillar protein (MP) were investigated.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the gel strength and the water‐holding capacity of MP‐chitosan gel increased significantly when chitosan was added at 2.5–10 mg mL−1. Myofibrillar protein samples with 10 mg mL−1 added chitosan exhibited the highest elasticity and viscosity during gel formation and strengthening. The addition of chitosan also caused a modification in both the secondary and tertiary structure of MP, resulting in an enhanced exposure of hydrophobic and sulfhydryl groups in comparison with the control. Chitosan inhibited the conversion of immobilized water into free water and the formation of water channels during the thermal gelation process of MP. The denaturation enthalpy (ΔH) of myosin decreased as the concentration of chitosan exceeded 5 mg mL−1. The microstructure showed that the incorporation of chitosan (5–10 mg mL−1) facilitated the formation of compact and well organized MP gel networks.

CONCLUSION

The addition of chitosan can enhance the functional properties of meat protein and facilitate heat‐induced gelation, making it a promising ingredient for improving the quality of processed meat products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Late (≥60 years old) and middle adulthood (40–59 years old) patients achieve similar improvement in patient‐reported outcomes following ACL reconstruction
Authors: Pohl Nicholas B. , Fitzgerald Patrick , Brush Parker L. , Fletcher Daniel J. , Hornstein Joshua
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the range of motion (ROM), surgical outcomes, and patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction outcomes in patients 60 years or older at the time of surgery to 40‐ to 59‐year‐old patients.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study from 2015 to 2022, a 3:1 propensity match was performed to match late adulthood patients (≥60 years old) undergoing ACL reconstruction with middle adulthood (40–59 years old) ACL reconstruction patients. Patients were matched based on sex, ACL graft utilized and concomitant procedures performed during ACL reconstruction. Statistical analysis compared demographics, preoperative injury management, surgical outcomes, PROMs, and minimal clinical important difference (MCID) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) achievement rates for all ACL reconstruction patients included.

Results

Twenty late adulthood and 60 middle adulthood patients who underwent ACL reconstruction were included in the final cohort. Patients who were 60 years or older experienced no difference in reoperation rate (n.s.), incidence of retears (n.s.) or ROM (n.s.) at 1 year post‐operatively. There were also no differences in International Knee Documentation Committee (ΔIKDC) (31.3 ± 19.1 vs. 34.2 ± 18.2, n.s.) or ΔPCS‐12 (12.4 ± 9.8 vs. 12.9 ± 10.8, n.s.) scores at 1 year post‐operatively. Furthermore, the younger and older patient cohorts demonstrated similar rates of achieving the MCID (80.0% vs. 83.3%, n.s.) and SCB (50.0% vs. 61.7%, n.s.) scores for IKDC.

Conclusion

Patients 60 years or older and 40‐ to 59‐year‐old patients demonstrated similar outcomes after undergoing ACL reconstruction with allograft. This study concludes that ACL reconstruction in late adulthood can still be a successful treatment option and should allow surgeons to feel more comfortable when performing indicated surgical intervention for older patients who experience an ACL tear.

Level of Evidence

Level III, Therapeutic III, retrospective cohort study.
Outcomes of heliox use in children with respiratory compromise: A 10‐year single institution experience
Authors: Young Ashley , Stein Eli , Rowland Matthew , Valika Taher , Ghadersohi Saied , Hazkani Inbal
Published: September 2024

Objective

Heliox, a mixture of helium and oxygen, has been shown to improve laminar airflow and decrease airway resistance in children. This study aims to describe the outcomes of heliox use in children with respiratory compromise and to identify variables associated with a need for airway surgical intervention.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of patients who received heliox between 2012 and 2022 at a tertiary care children's hospital.

Results

A hundred and thirty‐eight heliox treatments were recorded in 119 children. Twelve patients were excluded. Most (n = 100, 84%) patients had significant comorbidities. On average, patients spent a cumulative mean of 94 ± 187 h on heliox therapy per hospital admission. Patients with croup or asthma without known airway pathology presented at an older age than patients with other indications for heliox therapy (4.0 ± 4.7 vs. 2.2 ± 3.6 years, p = 0.04) and were significantly less likely to have background diseases (n = 14, 52% vs. n = 74, 93%, p < 0.0001). Overall, 51 (47.7%) patients were recommended tracheostomy placement, airway reconstruction, or palliative care. Cumulative use of heliox for more than 47 h was associated with an increased risk of needing tracheostomy or airway reconstruction (odds ratio 6.2, 95% confidence intervals 2.56–14.13, p < 0.0001). In multivariable regression analysis, neuromuscular disease, intracranial neuropathology, and cumulative time of heliox were associated with a need for definitive airway intervention.

Conclusions

Heliox may be used as a temporizing agent in children with upper airway obstruction. The effectiveness of heliox use for more than 47 h in children, especially in the presence of neuromuscular disease and intracranial neuropathology should be reconsidered.

Level of evidence: 4.
A 225–300 GHz broadband frequency tripler using accurate series resistance model
Authors: Wei Haomiao , Zhang Yong , Cha Xingzeng , Zhu Huali , Chen Yang
Published: September 2024

This paper proposed an accurate series resistance model tailored for Schottky diode‐based terahertz multipliers. Compared to the conventional electrothermal model (E‐T model) only considering thermal effects, this model comprehensively accounts for both thermal and frequency effects of the series resistor components, including the temperature‐dependent epilayer resistance (Repi) and the temperature‐frequency‐dependent spreading resistance (Rspreading). The evaluation of thermal effects relies on steady‐state thermal simulation and the corresponding electrothermal model. Notably, the frequency‐dependent spreading resistance part is derived from the fitting conductivity of doped buffer layers and extracted by auxiliary three‐dimensional electromagnetic simulations. Based on this model, a balanced 225–300 GHz frequency tripler with AlN substrate has been designed and manufactured. By introducing this model, a significant improvement in the consistency between simulated and measured results has been achieved compared to the single E‐T model, regardless of whether the input power is low (80 mW) or high (160 mW).
Application of high‐density 2D receiver coil arrays for improved SNR in prostate MRI
Authors: Riederer Stephen J. , Borisch Eric A. , Du Qingshuo , Froemming Adam T. , Hulshizer Thomas C. , Kawashima Akira , McGee Kiaran P. , Robb Fraser , Rossman Phillip J. , Takahashi Naoki
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To study if adaptive image receive (AIR) receiver coil elements can be configured into a 2D array with high (>45% by diameter) element‐to‐element overlap, allowing improved SNR at depth (0.7–1.5× element diameter) versus conventional (20%) overlap.

Methods

An anterior array composed of twenty 10‐cm diameter elements with 45% overlap arranged into a 4 × 5 grid and a similar 3 × 7 twenty‐one‐element posterior array were constructed. SNR and g‐factor were measured in a pelvic phantom using the new high‐density (HD) arrays (41 total elements) and compared to vendor AIR‐based arrays (30 total elements) with conventional overlap. T2‐weighted fast‐spin‐echo (T2SE) images acquired using both arrays were compared in 20 subjects. SNR was estimated in vivo. Results were compared blindly by three uroradiologists using a five‐point scale. Images using the HD arrays were also compared to a set of images acquired over a range of acceleration factors (R = 2.0, 2.5, 3.0) with the conventional arrays.

Results

SNR within the phantom was on average 15% higher for R = 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 using the HD arrays. Across the 20 subjects SNR within the prostate was 11% higher and assessed radiologically as significantly higher (p < 0.001) for the HD versus conventional arrays. At all acceleration factors the new HD arrays outperformed the conventional arrays (p ≤ 0.01), allowing increased R for similar SNR.

Conclusion

AIR elements can be configured into 2D arrays with high (45%) element‐to‐element overlap, consistently providing increased SNR at depth versus arrays with conventional (20%) overlap. The SNR improvement allows increased acceleration in T2SE prostate MRI.
Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange prescribing patterns for Guillain‐Barre Syndrome in the United States—2001 to 2018
Authors: Stino Amro M. , Reynolds Evan L. , Watanabe Maya , Callaghan Brian C.
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Aims

Randomized controlled trials show that repeat intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) dosing and plasma exchange (PLEX) followed by IVIG (combination therapy) have no additional therapeutic benefit in Guillain‐Barre Syndrome (GBS) non‐responders. Furthermore, the delineation between GBS and Acute Onset CIDP (A‐CIDP) can be particularly challenging and carries therapeutic implications. We aimed to evaluate the presence of repeat IVIG, combination therapy, and diagnostic reclassification from GBS to CIDP.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of a large healthcare database for patients with GBS in the US from 2001 to 2018. We identified individuals initially diagnosed with GBS and later re‐classified as CIDP. Multivariable logistic regression models were developed to determine associations between patient factors and repeat IVIG dosing, combination therapy, and diagnostic re‐classification from GBS to CIDP.

Results

We identified 2325 patients with GBS. A total of 39.7% received repeat IVIG and 6.1% received combination therapy. The proportion of individuals initially diagnosed with GBS and then re‐classified as CIDP was 32.0%. Repeat IVIG, combination therapy, and diagnostic reclassification remained stable over time. Female sex (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.65–0.96) and medium‐high net worth (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.45–0.90) associated with repeat IVIG therapy, while Asian ethnicity associated with diagnostic re‐classification from GBS to CIDP (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.09–2.86).

Discussion

Repeat IVIG dosing was quite common in GBS before newer trials suggesting harm in non‐responders, and IVIG/PLEX combination therapy continues to persist despite strong evidence against use in non‐responders. Further, nearly one in three patients initially diagnosed with GBS is subsequently diagnosed with CIDP, but the reasons are unclear.
A Semi‐Randomized and Augmented Kaczmarz Method With Simple Random Sampling for Large‐Scale Inconsistent Linear Systems
Authors: Li Shunchang , Wu Gang
Published: September 2024

A greedy randomized augmented Kaczmarz (GRAK) method was proposed in Bai and Wu for large and sparse inconsistent linear systems. However, in each iteration of this method, one has to construct two new index sets via computing residual vector with respect to the augmented linear system. Thus, the computational overhead of this method may be large for extremely large‐scale problems. Moreover, there is no reliable stopping criterion for this method. In this work, we are interested in solving large‐scale sparse or dense inconsistent linear systems, and try to enhance the numerical performance of this method. The contributions of this work are as follows. First, we propose an accelerated GRAK method. Theoretical analysis indicates that it converges faster than the GRAK method under a very weak assumption. Second, we apply the semi‐randomized Kaczmarz method to the augmented linear system, and propose a semi‐randomized augmented Kaczmarz method with simple random sampling. In this method, there is no need to access all the information of the data matrix. The convergence of the proposed methods are established. To the best of our knowledge, there are no practical stopping criteria in all randomized Kaczmarz‐type methods till now. To fill‐in this gap, the third contribution of this work is to introduce a practical stopping criterion for Kaczmarz‐type methods, and show its rationality from a theoretical point of view. Numerical results are performed on both real‐world and synthetic data sets, which demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed stopping criterion, and illustrate that the new methods are often superior to many state‐of‐the‐art Kaczmarz methods for large‐scale inconsistent linear systems.
Can destigmatizing mental health increase willingness to seek help? Experimental evidence from Nepal
Authors: Lacey Lindsey , Mishra Nirajana , Mukherjee Priya , Prakash Nikhilesh , Prakash Nishith , Quinn Diane , Sabarwal Shwetlena , Saraswat Deepak
Published: September 2024

We conducted a randomized control trial to study the impact of two information messages aimed at reducing the stigma associated with mental illness on the willingness to seek mental health care among adults in Nepal. The first intervention shares information about the prevalence of mental health issues and the efficacy of treatment. The second intervention shares information about the mental health struggles of a Nepali celebrity and how he benefited from treatment. We find three results. First, compared to a no‐information control group, both interventions increase participants’ stated willingness to seek mental health treatment. This effect is driven by participants with high personal and anticipated stigma, less severe symptoms of depression and anxiety, and who hold strong beliefs about conformity to masculinity. Second, the impact on participants’ stated willingness to seek mental health treatment mirrors their willingness to pay for counseling. Third, participants are, on average, more likely to report willingness to seek help when the enumerator is female.
Long‐term outcomes following proton therapy for pediatric spinal low‐grade glioma
Authors: Brisson Ryan J. , Indelicato Daniel J. , Bradley Julie A. , Aldana Philipp R. , Klawinski Darren , Morris Christopher G. , Vega Raymond B. Mailhot
Published: September 2024

Background

Due to its rarity, no standard treatment guidelines exist for pediatric spinal low‐grade glioma (LGG‐S). Proton therapy (PT) offers an attractive modality to minimize toxicity. Herein, we present the first published series of pediatric patients who received PT for progressive LGG‐S.

Procedures

We identified eight consecutive patients with nonmetastatic LGG‐S treated with PT. Cumulative incidence method was used to estimate local control (LC), freedom from distant metastases (FFDM), and freedom from progression (FFP). The Kaplan–Meier product limit method assessed overall survival (OS). Toxicity was assessed according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events Version 5.0.

Results

Median age at diagnosis was 4 years. All patients underwent attempted resection and developed recurrence/progression prior to referral for PT, with median duration between initial surgery and PT of 4.4 years. Median age at the start of PT was 8 years. Most patients (n = 5) received PT as ≥third line treatment. Seven patients were treated with PT to the primary tumor. Most patients (n = 7) received between 45–50.4 CGE. Median follow up was 7.8 years. The 10‐year estimates for LC, FFDM, FFP, and OS were 85, 88, 73, and 55%, respectively. One patient experienced malignant transformation and two developed pseudoprogression following PT. No pulmonary, gastrointestinal, or musculoskeletal toxicities were observed during or after PT.

Conclusions

Despite negative selection bias our experience suggests PT for pediatric LGG‐S offers long‐term disease control with limited toxicity. The favorable therapeutic ratio of PT suggests it should be considered among first‐line therapy in children with nonmetastatic, unresectable LGG‐S.
Closed‐loop recycling of Nylon‐6 to Caprolactam catalyzed by a green and effective phosphazene base
Authors: Chen Haoyue , Yang Rulin , Dong Bingzhe , Sun Hongguang , Xu Guangqiang , Wang Qinggang
Published: September 2024

Chemical recycling of polymers to initial monomers (CRM) has emerged as an advanced solution for waste plastic management. In particular, developing promising catalytic methods are a crucial issue. In this work, focusing on the closed‐loop recycling of Nylon‐6 (PA6) to caprolactam (CPL), a phosphazene base t‐BuP4 is exploited as a green organocatalyst. The versatility of this catalytic system is confirmed by the calculation of activation energy, as well as the effective and selective depolymerization process. Meanwhile, the catalyst also displays good recyclability and scalability. Experimental kinetic data reveal that the depolymerization mechanism involved random chain scission after the interaction of catalyst and amide. This work provides a useful strategy for the treatment of post‐consumer waste PA6.
Detecting emerald ash borer boring vibrations using an encoder‐decoder and improved DenseNet model
Authors: Yin Jinliang , Zhang Haiyan , Chen Zhibo , Li Juhu
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Forest ecosystems are under constant threat from wood‐boring pests such as the Emerald ash borer (EAB), which remain elusive owing to their hidden life cycles within tree trunks. Early detection is vital to mitigate economic and ecological damage. The main current monitoring method is manual detection which is ineffective at early stages of infestation. This study introduces VibroEABNet, a deep learning‐based joint recognition network designed to enhance the detection of EAB boring vibration signals, with a novel approach integrating denoising and recognition modules.

RESULTS

The proposed VibroEABNet model demonstrated exceptional performance, achieving an average accuracy of 98.98% across multiple signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) in test datasets and a remarkable 97.5% accuracy in real forest datasets, surpassing traditional models and other deep learning networks evaluated in this study. These findings were supported by rigorous noise resistance analysis and real dataset evaluation, indicating the model's robustness and reliability in practical applications. Furthermore, the model's efficiency was highlighted by its inference time of 26 ms and a compact model size of 8.43 MB, underscoring its suitability for deployment in resource‐limited environments.

CONCLUSION

The development of VibroEABNet marks a significant advancement in pest detection methodologies, offering a scalable, accurate and efficient solution for early monitoring of wood‐boring pests. The integration of a denoising module within the network structure addresses the challenge of environmental noise, one of the primary limitations in acoustic monitoring of pests. Currently, this research is limited to a specific pest. Future work will focus on the applicability of this network to other wood‐boring pests. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Theoretical Study on the Synthesis Efficiency and Yield of Imidazole Derivatives Based on the Glyoxal and Diamine
Authors: Liu Huaxin , Chen Zhiyang , Ma Yinhua , Lv Meiheng , Yin Shuhui , Shang Fangjian , Liu Jianyong
Published: September 2024

Imidazole structures are significant molecular frameworks in pharmaceutical and energetic material research. The synthesis efficiency and yield of their derivatives often vary greatly, making it challenging to establish reaction regularity. In this study, we investigated two types of imidazole derivatives with notably different synthesis efficiencies and yields. Our findings reveal that the catalysis of H2O molecules is crucial for ensuring synthesis efficiency, while side reactions are influenced by the acidity of the solution during the process, thereby affecting the synthesis yield. We observed that the energy barrier for the H2O‐catalyzed ipsilateral H transfer process was reduced to 12.0 from 40.1 kcal/mol, significantly enhancing the reaction efficiency. The synthesis of 34‐dihydroxyimidazolidine‐2‐ketone was found to have a low yield of 19.2% due to competitive side reactions in the reaction system, which have higher energy barriers compared to the desired synthesis pathway. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for future research to optimize the synthesis of imidazole derivatives. Enhancing synthesis conditions could significantly benefit pharmaceutical applications and the development of advanced energetic materials.
Investigation of Hydantoin‐Based Drugs Used in the Treatment of Epilepsy Using Quantum Chemical Calculations, Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamics, ADMET, In Vitro, and Spectroscopic Methods
Authors: Kandemir Minnet Can , Bicak Bilge , Kecel‐Gunduz Serda , Akman Gizem
Published: September 2024

Present investigation deals with the structural and pharmacokinetic properties of hydantoin‐based drug molecules such as phenytoin, mephenytoin, and ethotoin. Hydantoin‐based drugs are widely used as anticonvulsants in the treatment of epilepsy. In this study, optimized structures, and theoretical vibrational wavenumbers of phenytoin, mephenytoin, and ethotoin molecules were determined using Gaussian 09 program with density functional theory (DFT) and B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) basis set, vibration mode assignments were performed with the GAR2PED program, and the theoretical results were supported by FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. In addition, thermodynamic parameters, Mulliken charge values, HOMO‐LUMO, natural bond orbital, MEP, hyperpolarizability analyzes of hydantoin‐based molecules were performed. Docking analysis of all molecules with the GABA‐AT receptor, which has an important place in epilepsy studies, were also carried out. Then, the molecular dynamic (MD) simulations of the hydantoin‐based drugs‐GABA‐AT complexes were realized for 50 ns. ADMET profiles of all molecules were determined and presented by parameters of toxicity and drug‐likeness. Additionally, to determine the effects of hydantoin‐based drugs on glioblastoma cells, cytotoxic effects of phenytoin, mephenytoin, and ethotoin were evaluated on U‐87 Human glioblastoma cell line.
Preclinical Development of a Genetically Engineered Albumin‐Binding Nanoparticle of Paclitaxel
Authors: Saha Soumen , Banskota Samagya , Yousefpour Parisa , Schaal Jeffrey L. , Zakharov Nikita , Liu Jianqiao , Dzuricky Michael , He Ziwei , Roberts Stefan , Li Xinghai , Chilkoti Ashutosh
Published: September 2024

Nab‐paclitaxel (Abraxane), an albumin‐bound solvent‐free paclitaxel (PTX) formulation that takes advantage of the endogenous albumin transport pathway, is the current gold standard for treatment of solid tumors with PTX. However, nab‐paclitaxel has several limitations, including complex manufacturing, immunogenicity, slow drug‐release, and a narrow therapeutic window. Nevertheless, no other PTX formulation has gained the Food and Drug Administration approval since Abraxane's 18‐year reign. Addressing these concerns, herein, a PTX‐loaded nanoparticle of a recombinant polypeptide that—like nab‐paclitaxel—capitalizes on the long in vivo half‐life of albumin is reported. This genetically engineered nanoparticle packages PTX in the core of the nanoparticle and displays an albumin‐binding domain on the exterior of the nanoparticle. Upon in vivo administration, the drug‐loaded nanoparticle binds albumin with nanomolar affinity, and acquires an albumin‐corona, which eliminates the need to use exogenous albumin. The nanoparticles can be stored at subzero temperature as lyophilized powder without any cryoprotectants for upto a year and can be reconstituted on‐demand in aqueous buffer at high concentration, thus greatly simplifying formulation processes. These albumin‐binding nanoparticles improve the therapeutic window by at least twofold compared to nonalbumin‐binding counterpart and outperform nab‐paclitaxel in multiple murine tumor models, results that have been independently replicated by a contract research organization.
Reaction Mechanism between MgO and MgOC Lining Refractories and a High‐Carbon Al‐Killed Steel
Authors: Cheng Yujie , Chen Wei , Wang Jujin , Zhang Lifeng
Published: September 2024

In the current study, effects of a carbon‐bonded magnesia (MgOC) refractory and a magnesia (MgO) refractory on the cleanliness of a high‐carbon Al‐killed steel and on the degree of refractory are investigated using laboratory experiments, thermodynamic calculation, and a kinetic modeling. The refractory/steel interface layer and inclusions in the steel are analyzed. After a 90 min contact between the refractory rod and the steel, the penetration of the molten steel into MgO refractory is small. An about 0.1 mm thick interface layer containing CaO–Al2O3–SiO2–MgO is generated at the boundary of magnesite particles while the composition of inclusions in the steel changes very little. The molten steel penetrated 1 mm into MgOC refractory through grain boundaries, forming channels due to the graphite consumption. A new 20 μm thick interface layer containing CaS and MgO is formed between the steel and MgOC refractory. The formation of CaS is favored at the steel/MgOC refractory and is rarely existed at the steel/MgO refractory during cooling process. The average content of MgO in inclusions increases from 6.22 to 30.05 wt% while the Al2O3 content in inclusions decreases from 84.57 to 69.95 wt% reacting for 90 min.