bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomimetic Chemical Reactions with Natural Products Using Metalloporphyrins and Salen Complexes as Catalysts: A Brief Review
Authors: Sousa Rita C. N. , Confessor Vitor P. P. , Da Silva Antonio K. B. , Almeida Addison R. , Pinheiro Francisco A. S. D. , Ferreira Leandro S.
Published: May 2024

The cytochrome P450 is a superfamily of hemoproteins mainly present in the liver and are versatile biocatalysts. They participate in the primary metabolism and biosynthesis of various secondary metabolites. Chemical catalysts are utilized to replicate the activities of enzymes. Metalloporphyrins and Salen complexes can contribute to the products’ characterization and elucidate biotransformation processes, which are investigated during pre‐clinical trials. These catalysts also help discover biologically active compounds and get better yields of products of industrial interest. This review aims to investigate which natural product classes are being investigated by biomimetic chemical models and the functionalities applied in the use of these catalysts. A limited number of studies were observed, with terpenes and alkaloids being the most investigated natural product classes. The research also revealed that Metalloporphyrins are still the most popular in the studies, and the identity and yield of the products obtained depend on the reaction system conditions.
A case report of diabetic ketoacidosis due to endocarditis of the mitral valve
Authors: Omidi Fatemeh , Sadeghi Soheila , Kachoueian Naser , Ebrahimi Moein
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

In the context of diabetic ketoacidosis, clinicians should consider uncommon origins of infection, notably infective endocarditis. This is especially crucial when confronted with cases that recur persistently or exhibit resistance to treatment. This is a case of a diabetic patient with diabetic ketoacidosis admitted to our facility. A 35‐year‐old diabetic patient presented with DKA precipitated by mitral valve endocarditis. To our knowledge and according to the literature review, only one case of DKA precipitated by endocarditis has been reported in the past. This report highlights the importance of considering endocarditis as a possible etiology in patients presenting.
Unusual presentation of tumor‐induced osteomalacia mismanaged due to misdiagnosis: A literature review based on a case report
Authors: Fatollahzadeh Mahdieh , Meybodi Hamid Reza Aghaei , Pajavand Hamid , Payab Moloud , Ebrahimpur Mahbube , Ebrahimi Pouya
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Tumor‐induced osteomalacia is a rare but potentially serious disease with nonspecific misguiding manifestations that can result in a wrong diagnosis and being treated for rheumatologic or other similar diseases. In patients with unexpected fractures, resistant musculoskeletal pains, and hypophosphatemia, this diagnosis should be considered by the physicians and approached through a complete history taking, physical exam laboratory, and radiologic evaluation to give the opportunity of on‐time treatment to the patient.

Tumor‐induced osteomalacia (TIO) is an uncommon mesenchymal tumor that results in disproportionate phosphorus excretion, primarily leading to bone‐related symptoms. Laboratory, imaging, and histopathological evaluation can confirm this pathologic condition. In this case, we present the history and subsequent clinical parts of a 50‐year‐old woman who presented with an unusual presentation of generalized musculoskeletal pains and a right ankle mass. Her disease was diagnosed with multidisciplinary evaluation and was approached by a surgical treatment. The patient was treated with total resection of the tumor, which led to complete resolution of musculoskeletal and metabolic abnormalities, which were resolved following total tumor resection. TIO is a paraneoplastic disease that results in abnormal secretion of phosphatonins, particularly fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). This can cause hypophosphatemia, hyperparathyroidism, lower bone density, and increased risk of pathologic fractures. These tumors are mostly cured by surgical ± radiotherapy. The present study aims to provide insight into the fact that a TIO diagnosis is not always straightforward. However, in suspicious cases such as unexplained hypophosphatemia, it should be considered to prevent delayed diagnosis of the progressive pathology. The earlier treatment can prevent several complications and reduce the risk of mortality.
Iatrogenic combined common iliac and lateral sacral artery perforation during coronary angiography: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Mehrpooya Maryam , Ghasemi Massoud , Ebrahimi Pouya , Taheri Homa , Soltani Parnian
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Arterial rupture is one of the rare but known and devastating complications of the angiogram, which can ultimately lead to loss of limb and life. Therefore, it is recommended that this complication be included in the consent form and that the operator and the logistics team be prepared for this scenario. Moreover, categorizing the patients based on risk factors to be more cautious during the procedure for high‐risk patients can be considered a reasonable strategy.

One of the rare but lethal complications of femoral artery catheterization for coronary angiography is arterial rupture, which can cause a range of negligible to massive retroperitoneal hemorrhage. This case presents a woman with unstable angina who underwent coronary catheterization. After arterial sheath placement, extravasation of blood from the right common iliac and lateral sacral arteries was seen, a diagnosis that has been reported rarely before. The bleeding was controlled with balloon inflation in the lateral sacral artery and a stent graft implantation in the right common iliac artery. The patient remained asymptomatic during the procedure and the short‐ and long‐term follow‐up. Interventional cardiologists and radiologists who access the femoral artery for any procedure should be aware of this possible event. Sometimes, this situation manifests with nonspecific symptoms such as weakness, lethargy, and pallor. Moreover, more logistical preparation and training are needed to overcome these unexpected conditions.
Small Molecule Oxidation Facilitated Seawater Splitting for Hydrogen Production: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Li Jingwei , Ping Jiang San
Published: May 2024

Direct seawater splitting is an environment‐friendly and promising technology to replace freshwater electrolysis for hydrogen production. The challenge of seawater electrolysis lies in the competition between chloride oxidation reaction (CER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), as well as electrode corrosion and poisoning caused by chloride. Some small molecules have lower anodic electrocatalytic oxidation potentials compared to OER and CER, making them possible to substitute OER and/or CER in coupled electrolyzers not only to eliminate the electrode corrosion problem but also to significantly enhance the energy efficiency of seawater electrolysis. This article reviews the progress of such small molecule oxidation facilitated seawater electrolyzer. Starting with an overview of the key challenges in seawater electrolysis, this review introduces the fundamentals and advantages of the coupled seawater electrolyzers and discusses the strategies for anodic small molecule oxidation and cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction, including utilizing Cl− as a reactive medium, value‐added chemical synthesis, pollutants electrooxidation, and optimizing electrolyzers. Finally, the challenges and prospects of small molecule oxidation facilitated seawater splitting are summarized, aiming to provide impetus for research and development on coupled seawater electrolysis technologies.
Photochemical Aerobic Upcycling of Polystyrene Plastics
Authors: Skolia Elpida , Mountanea Olga G. , Kokotos Christoforos G.
Published: May 2024

Although the introduction of plastics has improved humanity's everyday life, the fast accumulation of plastic waste, including microplastics and nanoplastics, have created numerous problems with recent studies highlighting their involvement in various aspects of our lives. Upcycling of plastics, the conversion of plastic waste to high‐added value chemicals, is a way to combat plastic waste that is receiving increased attention. Herein, we describe a novel aerobic photochemical process for the upcycling of real‐life polystyrene‐based plastics into benzoic acid. A new process employing a thioxanthone‐derivative, in combination with N‐bromosuccinimide, under ambient air and 390 nm irradiation is capable of upcycling real‐life polystyrene‐derived products in benzoic acid in yields varying from 24–54 %.
Versatile Separators Toward Advanced Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries: Status, Recent Progress, Challenges and Perspective
Authors: Zhang Mengjie , Zhang Xu , Liu Sen , Hou Wenshuo , Lu Yang , Hou Linrui , Luo Yongsong , Liu Yang , Yuan Changzhou
Published: May 2024

Lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) have recently gained extensive attention due to their high energy density, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, serious shuttle effect and uncontrolled growth of lithium dendrites restrict them from further commercial applications. As “the third electrode”, functional separators are of equal significance as both anodes and cathodes in LSBs. The challenges mentioned above are effectively addressed with rational design and optimization in separators, thereby enhancing their reversible capacities and cycle stability. The review discusses the status/operation mechanism of functional separators, then primarily focuses on recent research progress in versatile separators with purposeful modifications for LSBs, and summarizes the methods and characteristics of separator modification, including heterojunction engineering, single atoms, quantum dots, and defect engineering. From the perspective of the anodes, distinct methods to inhibit the growth of lithium dendrites by modifying the separator are discussed. Modifying the separators with flame retardant materials or choosing a solid electrolyte is expected to improve the safety of LSBs. Besides, in‐situ techniques and theoretical simulation calculations are proposed to advance LSBs. Finally, future challenges and prospects of separator modifications for next‐generation LSBs are highlighted. We believe that the review will be enormously essential to the practical development of advanced LSBs.
Rethinking student teachers' professional learning in Wales: Promoting reflection‐in‐action
Authors: Grigg Russell , Lewis Helen , Morse Miriam , Crick Tom
Published: May 2024

Nearly forty years ago, Stenhouse argued that the function of the curriculum was to stimulate teachers' everyday reflection about and learning from practice. This suggestion, alongside his support for teachers as researchers, aligns with the Welsh Government's commitment to build an evidence‐informed profession as part of ongoing major education system‐level reforms, including the implementation of the new Curriculum for Wales from September 2022. University initial teacher education (ITE) partnerships are playing an important role in building collaborative research capacity. This paper describes a case study of one such partnership which aims to promote research‐informed, reflective practice among its postgraduate primary student teachers. We use one of Stenhouse's principles of empirical study to frame our discussion of how student teachers' reflective practice is supported through brief conversations with their teacher educators (mentors) during lessons. Using a mixed methods approach, the findings show that student teachers value in‐the‐moment feedback. The intervention also helps them to question aspects of teaching and learning, although such reflection is at a technical level. Our study is useful for teacher educators who are interested in supporting reflective practice through coaching and mentoring. It also cautions school leaders and policymakers implementing major curriculum reforms not to lose sight of Stenhouse's view that ‘it is teachers who, in the end, will change the world of the school by understanding it’. The paper concludes by discussing the research implications in shaping emerging practice and policy in the context of ongoing system‐level reform and curriculum implementation in Wales, with potential applicability and portability to other contexts and jurisdictions.
Meta‐heuristic optimization techniques for scheduling in multiple‐input multiple‐output multiple‐access channel system
Authors: Kumar Mishra Swadhin , Mahapatro Aruananshu , Pattanayak Prabina
Published: May 2024

In a highly dense multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) communication system, proper resource allocation is exceedingly challenging. The simultaneous selection of antennas at the base‐station (BS) and scheduling of users in an uplink multiple access channel (MAC) system add up to the signal processing load in the MIMO wireless system. The method chosen for combining the user scheduling and antenna selection must have a very low computational complexity. However, the exhaustive search algorithm (ESA), which achieves the best sum‐rate capacity in a MIMO‐MAC system, has a very high level of complexity. In this paper, we use a metaheuristic‐based optimization algorithms to optimize the sum‐rate capacity in a MAC system with significantly less computational complexity. First, we use the beluga whale optimization (BWO) metaheuristic method to solve the optimization problem. The BWO is a swarm‐based algorithm that draws inspiration from beluga whale behavior. An improved BWO (iBWO) is also presented and is utilized for the same optimization challenge. The proposed iBWO scheme improves the search capability of the algorithm and thereby ensures better exploration and exploitation capabilities of the beluga whales. We compare the performance of these algorithms with a standard differential evolution (DE) algorithm. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed iBWO is a very competitive meta‐heuristic algorithm for solving optimization problems. The proposed iBWO algorithm achieves near optimal throughput in a MIMO‐MAC system. Also, the computational complexity related to the suggested optimization technique in a MIMO‐MAC system is found to be very less compared with the complexity related to ESA.
A comparison and development of methods for estimating shrub volume using drone‐imagery‐derived point clouds
Authors: Harrison Georgia R. , Shrestha Abhinav , Strand Eva K. , Karl Jason W.
Published: May 2024

Shrub volume is used to calculate numerous, essential ecological indicators in rangeland ecosystems such as biomass, fuel loading, wildlife habitat, site productivity, and ecosystem structure. Field techniques for biomass estimation, including destructive sampling, ocular estimates, and allometric techniques, use shrub height and canopy widths to estimate volume and translate it to biomass with species‐specific allometric equations. These techniques are time‐consuming and pose challenges, including removal of plant material and training of observers. We compared canopy volume estimates from field‐based measurements with drone‐collected canopy volume estimates for seven dominant shrub species within mountain big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata subsp. vaseyana) plant communities in southern Idaho, USA. Canopy height and two perpendicular width measurements were taken from 103 shrubs of varying sizes, and volume was estimated using a traditional allometric equation. Overlapping aerial images captured with a DJI Mavic 2 Professional drone were used to create a 3D representation of the study area using structure‐from‐motion photogrammetry. Each shrub was extracted from the point cloud, and volume was estimated using allometric and volumetric methods. The volumetric method, which involved converting point clouds to raster canopy height models with 2.5‐ and 5‐cm grid cells, outperformed the allometric method (R2 > 0.7) and was more reproducible and robust to user‐related variability. Drone‐estimated volume best‐matched field‐estimated volume (R2 > 0.9) for three larger species: A. tridentata subsp. tridentata, A. tridentata subsp. vaseyana, and Purshia tridentata. The volume of smaller shrubs (canopy widths <1 m) was slightly overestimated from drone‐based models. We argue that drone‐based models provide a suitable alternative to field methods, while having the added benefit of being less time‐consuming, with fewer limitations, and more easily scaled to larger study areas than traditional field techniques. Finally, we demonstrate a proof of concept for automating canopy volume estimates using point‐cloud‐based automatic shrub detection algorithms. These findings demonstrate that drone‐collected images can be used to assess shrub canopy volume for at least five upland sagebrush steppe shrub species and support the integration of drone data collection into rangeland vegetation monitoring.
Assessing the impacts of aquaculture on local fish communities using environmental DNA metabarcoding analysis
Authors: Suzuki Shota , Otomo Yuri , Dazai Akihiro , Abe Takuzo , Kondoh Michio
Published: May 2024

Fish aquaculture potentially affects the local ecosystem through feed (leftovers) and feces. However, evaluation of its impacts on biodiversity, especially those of mobile organisms such as fish, is not straightforward. Here, we report a case study in which environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding with MiFish universal primers for the 12S rRNA region of fish is used to detect and assess the impact of aquaculture on local fish communities. In Shizugawa Bay, Minamisanriku Town, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, Oncorhynchus kisutch (coho salmon) is aquacultured in sea cages from November to July, but is absent from August to October. We conducted eDNA surveys in June, August, October, and December 2021 of water at depths of 5 m and 1 m above the bottom obtained from two sites, one approximately 100 m and the other approximately 2500 m from the nearest aquaculture site. The total number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) detected was 122, with a maximum of 50 and a minimum of 10. With distance‐based redundancy analysis (dbRDA) and PERMANOVA applied to the eDNA‐based community compositional data, we detected a significant effect of the presence of O. kisutch aquaculture on fish biodiversity. The generalized linear model (GLM) applied to each detected OTUs indicated that the aquaculture was associated positively with Leucopsarion petersii (ice goby), and Oncorhynchus spp. and negatively with Chaenogobius annularis (forktongue goby). Environmental DNA metabarcoding surveys, combined with multivariate statics, are a promising tool to identify the dimension of biodiversity that human activity affects and would serve as a basic survey for sustainable use of the sea.
Isolation and Reactivity of Silepins with a Sterically Demanding Silyl Ligand
Authors: Yu Liu Jin , Inoue Shigeyoshi , Rieger Bernhard
Published: May 2024

Silacycloheptatriene (silepin) species are novel silicon compounds reported in recent years. The interplay between the “closed” silepin and the “open” silylene form enables an enhanced stability of the low valent species while maintaining a high reactivity towards small molecules. In this work, two new silepins of similar structures to literature known compounds bearing modified silyl ligands are reported. A unique intramolecular activation of an aromatic hydrogen is found, and the respective formed hydrosilanes are characterized. We further synthesized iron(0) carbonyl complexes of known and new silepins in order to investigate their electronic properties relative to each other to gain more insight into substitution effect in such compounds.
Functionalization of 1,3‐Butadiene Derivatives under Photo/Electrocatalysis
Authors: Huang Yinghui , Shen Linhui , Ma Chunhua , Jiang Yuqin , Yu Bing
Published: May 2024

In recent years, the functionalization of 1,3‐butadiene has become an attractive strategy for constructing allyl compounds with molecular and structural complexity, and the current research focuses on synthetic chemistry and organic synthesis. Compared with the traditional synthesis method, the synthesis methods promoted by photochemistry or electrochemistry represent an environmentally friendly and mild strategy. In this review, the functionalization reactions of 1,3‐butadiene under photochemical/electrochemical processes in recent years are reviewed according to the classification of functionalization systems, with particular emphasis on the corresponding reaction mechanism, which lays a foundation for further exploration of new catalytic methods.
Channel changes over the last 200 years: A meta data analysis on European rivers
Authors: Scorpio Vittoria , Comiti Francesco , Liébault Frédéric , Piegay Hervé , Rinaldi Massimo , Surian Nicola
Published: May 2024

The combined analysis of past evolutionary trajectories of channel morphology and temporal patterns of driving factors is fundamental to understanding present river conditions, supporting river management and evaluating future changes. Rivers in Europe underwent important channel changes during the Anthropocene in response to changing natural drivers and anthropogenic pressures. A considerable number of papers have been published on this topic, in the last decades. In this study, a comprehensive meta‐analysis on channel changes during the last 200 years in Europe was performed, aiming to provide quantitative information on the intensity of changes, to highlight regional scale similarities and dissimilarities in evolutionary morphological trajectories and to discuss the main causes of such changes. Based on a review, 102 papers were selected, addressing 145 channel reaches flowing through five main mountain ranges (Iberians, Alps, Apennines, Balkans and Carpathians) in the southern and eastern parts of Europe. The results show that active channel narrowing (between 26% and 36% on average) and incision (between 1 and 2 m) prevailed in most rivers between the 1800s and the 1950s, although widening was documented in some rivers of the Alps and the Apennines. Most multi‐thread reaches maintained their pattern until the mid‐20th century. Active channel changes accelerated during the 1950s–1990s (or 2000s) period, with channel narrowing up to 60% and channel incision up to 14 m. Multi‐thread patterns strongly decreased in frequency, with anabranching channels disappearing and single‐thread patterns becoming predominant. The cumulative effect of multiple and concomitant human pressures (gravel mining, channelisation and damming) was identified as the main driving factor for these accelerated changes. These findings must feed the public debate about preventing alterations of river ecosystems—exerted by anthropic disturbances—in a context of rapid economic development, especially in river systems still poorly altered and thus preserving wide, active and heterogeneous fluvial corridors.
Seeing is believing: Forecasting crude oil price trend from the perspective of images
Authors: Ren Xiaohang , Jiang Wenting , Ji Qiang , Zhai Pengxiang
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we propose a novel imaging method to forecast the daily price data of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil futures. We use convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for future price trend prediction and obtain higher prediction accuracy than other benchmark forecasting methods. The results show that images can contain more nonlinear information, which is beneficial for energy price forecasting. Nonlinear factors also have a strong influence during drastic fluctuations in crude oil prices. In the robustness tests, we find that the image‐based CNN is the most stable approach and can be applied in various futures forecasting scenarios. In the prediction of low‐frequency models for high‐frequency data, the CNN method still retains considerable predictive power, indicating the possibility of transfer learning of our novel approach. By unleashing the power of the picture, we open up a whole new perspective for forecasting future energy trends.
Extraction, characterization, and utilization of mung bean starch as an edible coating material for papaya fruit shelf‐life enhancement
Authors: Sharma Madhu , Bains Aarti , Dhull Sanju Bala , Chawla Prince , Goksen Gulden , Ali Nemat
Published: May 2024

This research was aimed to investigate the utilization of mung bean starch as an innovative edible coating material to enhance the shelf‐life of cut papaya fruits. The study focused on the extraction process of mung bean starch and its subsequent characterization through various analyses. Particle size (142.3 ± 1.24 nm), zeta potential (−25.52 ± 1.02 mV), morphological images, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, and thermal stability (68.36 ± 0.15°C) were assessed to determine the mung bean starch properties. The functional properties, such as bulk density (0.51 ± 0.004 g/cm3) and tapped density (0.62 ± 0.010 g/cm3), angle of repose (21.61°), swelling power (12.26 ± 0.25%), and minimum gelation concentration (4.01 ± 1.25%), were examined to detect its potential as a coating base material. Subsequently, the prepared mung bean starch coating solution (1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5%) was applied to papaya fruits and the coated fruits' physicochemical characteristics evaluated during storage. These characteristics encompassed color, weight loss, pH shifts, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, vitamin C content, fruit firmness, microbial analysis, and sensory attributes. The results revealed that starch coating on papaya maintained its color, reduced weight loss, preserved vitamin C, and delayed firmness loss, enhancing shelf‐life when compared to control sample. These findings demonstrated the effectiveness of mung bean starch coatings in preserving papaya fruits. The research made a significant contribution to the use of mung bean starch as a potential coating material for improving the shelf‐life of papaya fruits. This finding has great promise for the field of food preservation and quality control.
Geochemical evaluation and basin modelling of the Cretaceous succession in the Azhar Oil field, West Beni Suef Basin, Egypt
Authors: Farouk Sherif , Saada Saada Ahmed , Fagelnour Mohamed , Tawfik Ahmed Y. , Arafat Mohamed , El‐Kahtany Khaled
Published: May 2024

Geochemical analysis was performed on the Cretaceous sequence of the Azhar‐A‐2 well in the West Beni Suef Basin (WBSB), Western Desert, Egypt, utilizing data on total organic carbon (TOC), kerogen composition, vitrinite reflectance (Ro%) and Rock‐Eval pyrolysis. In addition, a 1D basin model was built to investigate the burial and temperature history of the study area. The most important Cretaceous source rocks are predominantly reported within the Albian Kharita Formation and Late Cenomanian‐Santonian Abu Roash (AR) Formation. Based on visual kerogen tests and Rock‐Eval pyrolysis, AR Formation (A, E, F, and G) are mixed oil‐ and gas‐prone source rocks with kerogens ranging from type II to type III, where A/R ‘A and F’ Members show dominant oil‐prone kerogen with the highest generative potential, while A/R ‘E and G’ Members are more gas‐prone kerogen. Most samples of the lower Kh Formation were interpreted as gas‐prone kerogen type III with low generative potential. On the other hand, the high amount of liptinite in the visual kerogen macerals is a strong indicator that the lower Petroleum Formation is an oil‐prone rather than gas‐prone source rock. The thermal maturity of the studied members increases consistently with depth, ranging from immature at the top of the AR Formation to the main/peak oil window at the base of the Lower Kharita Formation, which served as an active source rock for the hydrocarbons generated in the WBSB. The high value of the heat flow in the Beni Suef Basin (57 and 60 mW/m2) is a good indicator for the shallowing of the active source rock depth limit depth. From the study of the basin modeling, the main mature zone reached between 9811 and 11,090 ft in the middle of the Late Cretaceous (84.3–82.5 Ma) is through the L. Kharita Formation with three phases of hydrocarbon generation according to transformation ratio, where the second phase is the main stage in which TR is 5%–50%, showing the beginning of oil expulsion (Ro: 0.73%–0.78%, possibly 0.81%).
Association of fetal fraction and cell‐free fetal DNA with adverse pregnancy outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Chen Yixin , Wang Chun , Wang Yonghong , Peng Xin , Li Rujing , Pan Feng
Published: May 2024

Background

Adverse pregnancy outcomes, which can be caused by multiple factors, present a significant threat to the health of mothers and their babies. Cell‐free fetal DNA (cffDNA) from placental trophoblast cells might be able to reflect placental and fetal status. Previous studies have yielded controversial results regarding the association of FF or cffDNA with various adverse pregnancy outcomes. A previous study has attempted to systematically assess the association between low fetal fraction (FF) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, but it failed to perform quantitative analyses due to the few studies included. In the present study, we attempted to quantitatively assess the association of FF (or cffDNA) with adverse pregnancy outcomes and further analyze the causes of heterogeneity.

Objectives

To investigate the association of high/low FF or cffDNA with adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Search Strategy

We searched the databases of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science from January 1, 1990, to June 15, 2022 in this meta‐analysis.

Selection Criteria

Studies on the relationships of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with FF or cell free DNA were included. Non‐English literature was excluded.

Data Collection and Analysis

Data about pregnancy outcomes and cell free DNA were extracted and meta‐analyzed. Subgroup analysis was performed by different outcomes.

Main Results

There were 11 studies included involving 8280 participants. No significant heterogeneity was observed among the studies (I2 = 27%, 25%), and a fixed‐effect model was used for weighted quantitative analysis. The results revealed that the FF or cffDNA during pregnancy was significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women (OR = 1.57, 95% CI [1.24, 1.99], P = 0.233). The overall incidence of the maternal adverse outcomes was 8% (95% CI: 5–13). Subgroup analysis of different outcomes showed an evident association between low FF or cffDNA and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) (OR = 1.76, 95% CI [1.36, 2.27], P = 0.581). There was no evidence that the occurrence of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) and placental abnormality was associated with FF or cffDNA. No association was observed between low FF or cffDNA during pregnancy and adverse outcomes in fetuses (OR = 1.39, 95% CI [0.99, 1.94], P = 0.242). The overall incidence of adverse outcomes in fetuses was 8% (95% CI: 6–11). There were controversies over the association between high FF or cffDNA and HDP, and sPTB and small for gestational age infant, among different studies.

Conclusions

Pregnant women with low FF or cffDNA during the first or second trimester of pregnancy have an overall increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially HDP. However, the association between FF and various pregnancy outcomes needs to be further explored by more prospective studies.
Which type of forceps is better for nonrotational operative births? A simulation study comparing Thierry spatulas and Simpson‐Braun and Kielland forceps
Authors: Cuerva Marcos Javier , Villasante Pilar , Cruset Mariona , Pintado Carmen , Perez De Aguado Marta , Cortes Marta , Lopez Francisco , Bartha José Luis
Published: May 2024

Objective

Obstetric forceps play an important role in safe childbirth, yet there is a lack of distinction between various forceps types in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate and compare perineal pressure and forces on the baby during nonrotational forceps‐assisted births using Simpson‐Braun forceps, Kielland forceps, and Thierry spatulas on a simulation model.

Methods

This experimental study involved six obstetricians conducting 108 forceps‐assisted births on a simulation model. Instruments were assessed for their impact on perineal pressure, traction force, and operator‐assessed difficulty.

Results

Thierry's spatulas exerted the lowest force on the baby, while Kielland forceps exhibited the lowest perineal pressure, though not statistically significant. An experienced obstetrician demonstrated less perineal pressure with Simpson forceps. Notably, no significant differences in difficulty were observed between instruments.

Conclusion

This study highlights distinctions in forceps performance, with Thierry spatulas applying the least force on the fetal head, while an experienced obstetrician fared better with Simpson forceps in terms of perineal pressure. Kielland forceps remain a viable alternative for nonrotational forceps births, showing comparable outcomes.
Broad‐range, high‐linearity, and fast‐response pressure sensing enabled by nanomechanical resonators based on 2D non‐layered material: β‐In2S3
Authors: Zhu Junzhi , Wu Song , Wang Luming , Wu Jiaqi , Zhu Jiankai , Zou Luwei , Xiao Fei , Su Ziluo , Jiao Chenyin , Pei Shenghai , Zhang Zejuan , Qin Jiaze , Xu Bo , Zhou Yu , Xia Juan , Wang Zenghui
Published: May 2024

Two‐dimensional (2D) non‐layered materials, along with their unique surface properties, offer intriguing prospects for sensing applications. Introducing mechanical degrees of freedom is expected to enrich the sensing performances of 2D non‐layered devices, such as high frequency, high tunability, and large dynamic range, which could lead to new types of high performance nanosensors. Here, we demonstrate 2D non‐layered nanomechanical resonant sensors based on β‐In2S3, where the devices exhibit robust nanomechanical vibrations up to the very high frequency (VHF) band. We show that such device can operate as pressure sensor with broad range (from 10−3 Torr to atmospheric pressure), high linearity (with a nonlinearity factor as low as 0.0071), and fast response (with an intrinsic response time less than 1 μs). We further unveil the frequency scaling law in these β‐In2S3 nanomechanical sensors and successfully extract both the Young's modulus and pretension for the crystal. Our work paves the way towards future wafer‐scale design and integrated sensors based on 2D non‐layered materials.

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Sunflower germplasms’ response to different water and salinity stress levels in greenhouse and field conditions under subsurface drip irrigation
Authors: Saylak Sevgi , Irmak Suat , Eskridge Kent M. , Dweikat Ismail
Published: May 2024

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is moderately tolerant to salt and water stress, but its production can still be significantly and adversely affected by increases in these stressors as a result of the negative impacts of climate change on agricultural soil and crop productivity. The morphological and productivity (dry head weight, dry root weight, dry shoot weight, head diameter, whole seed weight, crude protein content, crude oil content, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, eicosanoic acid, 11‐eicosenoic acid, homo‐gamma‐linolenic w6 acid, lignoceric acid and plant height) responses of modern sunflower germplasms to different levels of salt and drought stress under greenhouse and field conditions were investigated and analysed. Six germplasms were evaluated under three salt concentrations (0, 150 and 250 mM), and two germplasms were evaluated for drought response under three irrigation levels. Significant differences in the response of sunflower germplasms to water and salinity were detected. The same germplasms exhibited significant differences in response to water and salinity between the treatments, which also varied significantly between the germplasms for the same treatment. The irrigation level significantly influenced the amount of oil but not the crude protein or fatty acid composition. The results and information of this research can aid in selecting and improving sunflower productivity under adverse (i.e. saline and drought) conditions.
A blocking and distance management staff training intervention for torso‐ and head‐directed aggression
Authors: Wine Byron , Newcomb Eli T.
Published: May 2024

Although decades of behavior‐analytic studies have focused on decreasing the aggressive behavior of clients, relatively little research has been conducted on preventing injuries for the staff members who implement treatment plans. In this study, three direct‐care staff members working with clients presenting with aggressive behavior were taught targeted blocking and distance management techniques designed to keep the clients safe while preventing injuries to the participants. Findings indicated that all staff members acquired the target skills in simulations, after which the skills for two participants generalized to the natural work environment.
Challenges and opportunities for cancer stem cell‐targeted immunotherapies include immune checkpoint inhibitor, cancer stem cell‐dendritic cell vaccine, chimeric antigen receptor immune cells, and modified exosomes
Authors: Alqarni Abdullah , Jasim Saade Abdalkareem , Altalbawy Farag M. A. , Kaur Harpreet , Kaur Irwanjot , Rodriguez‐Benites Carlos , Deorari Mahamedha , Alwaily Enas R. , Al‐Ani Ahmed M. , Redhee Ahmed H.
Published: May 2024

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are associated with the tumor microenvironment (TME). CSCs induce tumorigenesis, tumor recurrence and progression, and resistance to standard therapies. Indeed, CSCs pose an increasing challenge to current cancer therapy due to their stemness or self‐renewal properties. The molecular and cellular interactions between heterogeneous CSCs and surrounding TME components and tumor‐supporting immune cells show synergistic effects toward treatment failure. In the immunosuppressive TME, CSCs express various immunoregulatory proteins, growth factors, metabolites and cytokines, and also produce exosomes, a type of extracellular vesicles, to protect themselves from host immune surveillance. Among these, the identification and application of CSC‐derived exosomes could be considered for the development of therapeutic approaches to eliminate CSCs or cancer, in addition to targeting the modulators that remodel the composition of the TME, as reviewed in this study. Here, we introduce the role of CSCs and how their interaction with TME complicates immunotherapies, and then present the CSC‐based immunotherapy and the limitation of these therapies. We describe the biology and role of tumor/CSC‐derived exosomes that induce immune suppression in the TME, and finally, introduce their potentials for the development of CSC‐based targeted immunotherapy in the future.
Agenesis of the ductus venosus and fetal growth restriction: Is there a relation? A tertiary care center experience and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Piemonti Linda , Simonetto Chiara , Bovino Alessandra , Pinto Alessia , Garzon Simone , Grisolia Gianpaolo , Raffaelli Ricciarda
Published: May 2024

An update on the antenatal diagnosis of agenesis of ductus venosus (ADV) by differentiating the various possible types of shunts, focusing on the associated fetal anomalies, and predicting neonatal outcomes. This study reviewed the experience of two tertiary referral centers and literature. An unfavorable outcome was detected in preterm fetuses (p = 0.017), fetuses with a genetic anomaly (p = 0.046) or other associated malformations (p < 0.001). 71% of ADVs with other anomalies had an extrahepatic ADV (p = 0.002). 76% of fetuses with Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) had an extrahepatic ADV (p = 0.025). ADV may negatively influence fetal growth in cases with extrahepatic vein drainage.
Prenatal diagnosis of cerebellar hemorrhage: A case report
Authors: Tekin Sinem , Öcal Aydın
Published: May 2024

We report the case of a fetus with a sonographic diagnosis of hyperechogenic cerebellum at 28 weeks' gestation, which was suspected to be of hemorrhagic origin on fetal ultrasound. As an adjunct to ultrasound, fetal MRI can confirm the hemorrhagic origin of hyperechogenic cerebellar lesions, particularly by showing a high signal on T1‐weighted images. No etiological factors for fetal hemorrhage were found other than maternal hypertension and aspirin use. Postnatal MRI confirmed the prenatal diagnosis of cerebellar hemorrhage without underlying vascular anomaly.
Conceptualizing patient interactions eliciting empathy, compassion, reflection, and social projection: A model with analysis
Authors: Johnsen David C. , Roushdy Sally , Floriani Franciele , Shi Wei
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Conceptualizing the next patient interaction is logical, essential, and largely done intuitively with limited literature. The first objective is to elicit student thought experiences to four questions. The secondary objective is to classify responses for respective questions and to review faculty assessments.

Methods

Forty‐two students completed the exercise in the first clinical prosthodontics experience after a simulation course, in the fall of 2023. Four open‐ended questions were 1) differentiation from the ideal, 2) desired outcome(s), 3) self‐capabilities, and 4) consequences/prognosis. Nine different faculty assessed the exercise.

Results

100% of students responded to all four questions and 83% of responses were judged by faculty to grasp the concept in the question. The authors categorized responses into natural categories for each question. Authors separately assigned responses to categories. The agreement rate was 90%. Little to no overlap in responses was observed among the four questions. The sequence of questions led students to thought experiences from empathy in Question #1, to compassion in Question #2, and to self‐reflection in Question #3 to social projection in Question #4.

Conclusions

The main objective was met by engaging students in thought‐provoking responses to questions the experienced clinician asks of every patient encounter. The exercise elicited different kinds of thought experiences on four topics. The format was succinct with acceptance by students and faculty. The project has progressed from a concept some years ago to a recent pilot to full implementation with the current project. The next steps will be refinement and follow‐up in some years. The project follows an emulation model for critical thinking.
The Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research Cropland Common Experiment at Northern Plains
Authors: Liebig Mark A. , Whippo Craig W. , Saliendra Nicanor Z. , Scott Drew A. , Archer David W. , Clemensen Andrea K. , Halvorson Jonathan J. , Friedrichsen Claire N. , Christensen Rachel G. , Igathinathane C.
Published: May 2024

Cropland agriculture in the northern Great Plains is challenged by variable weather, agricultural intensification, and competing use for energy development. Innovative cropland practices that address these challenges are needed to ensure regional agriculture can sustainably meet future food, fuel, and fiber demand. In response to this need, the Northern Plains Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research network site established a cropland experiment in 2019 that contrasts prevailing and alternative practices at plot and field scales over a proposed 30‐year time frame. The experimental site is located on the Area IV Soil Conservation Districts Cooperative Research Farm near Mandan, ND. Cropping practices for the first 6 years of the experiment were developed with input from stakeholders and include a 3‐year crop rotation of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), corn (Zea mays L.), and soybean (Glycine max L.) with cover crops (alternative practice) and without (prevailing practice). The prevailing practice also involves the removal of crop residue, while a second alternative practice of perennial forages is included in the plot‐scale experiment. Biophysical measurements are made at both spatial scales at frequencies aligned with approved methods for each agronomic and environmental metric. Findings from the first 6 years of the experiment will help identify tradeoffs associated with cover crop use and residue removal in dryland cropping systems. In the future, the experiment will adopt a knowledge co‐production approach whereby researchers and stakeholders will work collaboratively to identify problems, implement research, and interpret results.
Treating disorders of brain–gut interaction with multidisciplinary integrated care. Moving towards a new standard of care
Authors: Burgell Rebecca Elizabeth , Hoey Louisa , Norton Kate , Fitzpatrick Jessica
Published: May 2024

Disorders of brain–gut interaction (DGBI) are highly prevalent in our community with a negative burden on the quality of life and function. Symptoms are frequently food‐induced, and psychological disorders are commonly co‐morbid and contribute greatly to symptom severity and healthcare utilization, which can complicate management. Pathophysiological contributors to the development and maintenance of DGBI are best appreciated within the biopsychosocial model of illness. Established treatments include medical therapies targeting gastrointestinal physiology, luminal microbiota or visceral sensitivity, dietary treatments including dietary optimization and specific therapeutic diets such as a low‐FODMAP diet, and psychological interventions. The traditional “medical model” of care, driven predominantly by doctors, poorly serves sufferers of DBGI, with research indicating that a multidisciplinary, integrated‐care approach produces better outcomes. This narrative review explores the current evidence for multidisciplinary care and provides the best practice recommendations for physicians and healthcare systems managing such patients.
Comparison of diagnostic performance among Abbott RealTime HCV Genotyping II, Abbott HCV Genotype plus RUO, and Roche Cobas HCV Genotyping assays for hepatitis C virus genotyping
Authors: Chang Yu‐Ping , Huang Chiuan‐Bo , Su Tung‐Hung , Liu Chun‐Jen , Tseng Tai‐Chung , Huang Shang‐Chin , Chen Pei‐Jer , Kao Jia‐Horng , Liu Chen‐Hua
Published: May 2024

Comparison of diagnostic accuracy for commercial hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotyping (Abbott RealTime HCV Genotyping II, Roche Cobas Genotyping) and investigational Abbott HCV Genotype plus RUO assays designed to discriminate genotype (GT)‐1a, 1b or 6 in cases of ambiguous GT from the Abbott commercial assay remains limited. 743 HCV‐viremic samples were subjected to analysis using Abbott and Roche commercial as well as Abbott HCV Genotype plus RUO assays. Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) targeting core region was employed as the reference standard. Diagnostic accuracy was reported as the number of participants (percentages) along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Using NGS, 741 samples (99.7%) yielded valid genotyping results. The diagnostic accuracies were 97.6% (95% CI: 96.1%–98.5%) and 95.3% (95% CI: 93.4%–96.6%) using Abbott and Roche commercial assays (p = 0.0174). Abbott commercial assay accurately diagnosed HCV GT‐6a and 6w, whereas Roche commercial assay accurately diagnosed HCV GT‐6a. Both assays demonstrated low accuracies for HCV GT‐6b, 6e, 6g, and 6n. Abbott HCV Genotype plus RUO assay discriminated 13 of the 14 samples (92.9%; 95% CI: 64.2%–99.6%) that yielded ambiguous GT. Both assays were capable of diagnosing mixed HCV infections when the minor genotype comprised >8.4% of the viral load. The diagnostic performance of commercial HCV genotyping assays is commendable. Abbott assay demonstrated superior performance compared to Roche assay in diagnosing HCV GT‐6. Abbott HCV Genotype plus RUO assay aids in discriminating ambiguous GT. Both commercial assays are proficient in diagnosing mixed HCV infections at a cut‐off viral load of 8.4% in minor genotype.