bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Celiac Disease in Children: Recommendations of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Authors: Hill Ivor D. , Dirks Martha H. , Liptak Gregory S. , Colletti Richard B. , Fasano Alessio , Guandalini Stefano , Hoffenberg Edward J. , Horvath Karoly , Murray Joseph A. , Pivor Mitchell , Seidman Ernest G.
Published: February 2024

Celiac disease is an immune‐mediated enteropathy caused by a permanent sensitivity to gluten in genetically susceptible individuals. It occurs in children and adolescents with gastrointestinal symptoms, dermatitis herpetiformis, dental enamel defects, osteoporosis, short stature, delayed puberty and persistent iron deficiency anemia and in asymptomatic individuals with type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, Williams syndrome, selective immunoglobulin (Ig)A deficiency and first degree relatives of individuals with celiac disease. The Celiac Disease Guideline Committee of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition has formulated a clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric celiac disease based on an integration of a systematic review of the medical literature combined with expert opinion.

The Committee examined the indications for testing, the value of serological tests, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing and histopathology and the treatment and monitoring of children with celiac disease. It is recommended that children and adolescents with symptoms of celiac disease or an increased risk for celiac disease have a blood test for antibody to tissue transglutaminase (TTG), that those with an elevated TTG be referred to a pediatric gastroenterologist for an intestinal biopsy and that those with the characteristics of celiac disease on intestinal histopathology be treated with a strict gluten‐free diet. This document represents the official recommendations of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition on the diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease in children and adolescents.
Carcinoid Tumor of the Appendix in Childhood: The Experience of Two Italian Institutions
Authors: Dall'Igna Patrizia , Ferrari Andrea , Luzzatto Claudia , Bisogno Gianni , Casanova Michela , Alaggio Rita , Terenziani Monica , Cecchetto Giovanni
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

Although rare, carcinoid tumor of the appendix is the most common neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract in children and adolescents. It is usually an incidental finding after a laparotomy for appendectomy, with a frequency of 2 to 5 cases per 1000 appendectomies. The experience with 14 cases of carcinoid reported in the appendix is described.

Methods and results:

In six patients the tumor measured 1 cm or less; only in one patient did it measure 2 cm. In three patients the tumor measured between 1 and 2 cm and in four the size was not known. In five cases the lesion had invaded the mesoappendix and periappendiceal fat. All tumors were discovered by chance, and three patients underwent further surgery as a result of suspected involvement of the margins. All the patients were alive with no evidence of disease at 24 to 214 months from diagnosis.

Conclusions:

Traditionally, local invasiveness and size have been considered prognostic factors. In our experience, both patients with local invasiveness and the patient with a tumor larger than 2 cm had good outcomes. Ileocolectomy performed in the patient with a 2‐cm tumor and in another two patients with smaller tumors did not demonstrate residual disease. Although the need for right hemicolectomy still remains controversial for tumors measuring more than 2 cm, the approach may be nonaggressive in case of tumors invading the serosa and the periappendiceal fat. Nonaggressive treatment has been suggested by some authors in cases of tumors larger than 2 cm; however, larger series need to be evaluated.
Relationship of Hepatic Steatosis to Adipose Tissue Distribution in Pediatric Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Fishbein Mark H , Mogren Chris , Gleason Theodore , Stevens W Ross
Published: February 2024

Objective:

Central adiposity, a component of insulin resistance syndrome, is a risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults. To determine whether a similar relationship occurs in children, hepatic fat content and adipose tissue distribution were assessed in obese children at risk for NAFLD.

Methods:

We reviewed the charts of obese children undergoing evaluation for NAFLD because of hepatomegaly or elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) without obvious etiology. Hepatic fat fraction and adipose tissue distribution were obtained by rapid magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques. Hepatic fat content was determined by a modification of the Dixon method that involves fast gradient echo. Body fat distribution was assessed by using heavily T1‐weighted fast gradient echo technique on a single slice at the level of the umbilicus, and regions of interest were demarcated based upon pixel intensity threshold value including visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue content (SAT).

Results:

Ten children underwent hepatic MRI only. Twenty‐nine children underwent hepatic and adipose tissue distribution MRI. There was a correlation between hepatic fat fraction and VAT (r = 0.37, P < 0.05) but not body mass index or SAT. Elevated serum ALT was associated with a higher hepatic fat fraction (P < 0.001) and VAT (P = 0.06).

Conclusion:

Visceral adiposity is a risk factor for pediatric NAFLD.
Visual Loss and Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension in Children With Alagille Syndrome
Authors: Narula Priya , Gifford Joanne , Steggall Margaret A. , Lloyd Carla , Van Mourik Indra D. M. , Mckiernan Patrick J. , Willshaw Harry E. , Kelly Deirdre
Published: February 2024

Background:

Alagille syndrome (AGS) is an autosomal dominant, multisystem disorder defined by developmental abnormalities of the liver, heart, eye and skeleton. Although visual problems are recognised, the severity of visual loss and its link with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) has not been reported.

Aim:

To review the incidence of visual loss and IIH in children with AGS managed at a National Paediatric Liver Unit between 1989 and 2004.

Subjects and Methods:

Retrospective case note review of children who fulfilled criteria for diagnosis of AGS and had an ophthalmic examination by a paediatric ophthalmologist.

Results:

Fifty‐five children with AGS were evaluated. Of these, 41 children fulfilled diagnostic criteria and had a documented ophthalmic examination. Six children had undergone liver transplantation. Three children had a definite diagnosis of IIH, 2 of whom developed postliver transplant. All 3 were treated medically, but 1 child with IIH required lumboperitoneal shunting. All 3 children with definite IIH have normal vision after treatment. Another child with probable undiagnosed IIH has bilateral optic atrophy and is registered blind. Two children with AGS are registered partially sighted, one with rod cone dystrophy and the other with pigmentary retinopathy and right disc atrophy.

Although visual abnormalities are well described in children with AGS, a minority of children have significant progressive visual loss. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension has been identified as a potentially treatable precipitating factor.

Conclusions:

We recommend annual fundoscopy in the follow‐up of children with AGS to facilitate early detection and appropriate management of IIH to prevent visual loss.
Liver Transplantation and Chemotherapy in Children With Unresectable Primary Hepatic Malignancies
Authors: Chen Li Ern , Shepherd Ross W. , Nadler Michelle L. , Chapman William C. , Kotru Anil , Lowell Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

Total surgical excision and adjunctive chemotherapy are cornerstones of treatment of primary hepatic malignancies in children. Recent studies suggest that transplantation is a viable option for unresectable tumors, but there are questions concerning decision making regarding resectability and timing of transplantation in relation to chemotherapy. We developed a management algorithm based on our experience, with reference to recently published multicenter transplantation outcomes.

Results:

Nine patients underwent transplantation (median age, 38 months; 7 hepatoblastoma, 2 undifferentiated mesenchymal sarcoma). All were assessed unresectable at presentation. After chemotherapy, 7 remained unresectable and had primary transplantation, 1 developed chemotherapy‐related liver failure, necessitating emergent transplantation, and 1 was deemed resectable, requiring rescue transplantation after local recurrence. Using a timely living/cadaver donor graft acquisition strategy relative to chemotherapy, median waiting time from listing was 8 days. After transplantation, 3 of 9 had chemotherapy, with side effects dictating discontinuation in 2; 6 of 9 had no chemotherapy, with 2 developing distant metastases, 1 of whom died 12 months posttransplantation. Median follow‐up was 3.08 years. Overall survival was 89%.

Conclusions:

Primary transplantation can be highly successful in children with hepatic tumors. These outcomes compare favorably with multicenter studies, where waiting‐list deaths are reported and survival after rescue transplantation is poor. We encourage timely transplantation in the setting of questionably resectable tumors or evidence of chemotherapy resistance. The necessity of posttransplantation chemotherapy is questioned. Consultation with a transplantation program before chemotherapy should avoid inappropriate attempts at resection and allow appropriate planning of transplantation in relation to chemotherapy.
Safety and Tolerability of Esomeprazole in Children With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Gilger Mark A , Tolia Vasundhara , Vandenplas Yvan , Youssef Nader N , Traxler Barry , Illueca Marta
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

To evaluate safety, tolerability, and symptom improvement with once‐daily esomeprazole in children with endoscopically proven gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Patients and Methods:

In this 8‐week, multicenter, randomized, uncontrolled, double‐blind study, children ages 1 to 11 years were stratified by weight to receive esomeprazole 5 or 10 mg (children <20 kg) or 10 or 20 mg (children ≥20 kg) once daily. Safety and tolerability was assessed by evaluating adverse events (AEs; both treatment‐ and non–treatment‐related AEs) and changes from baseline in medical history, physical examinations, and clinical laboratory tests. Investigators scored symptom severity every 2 weeks using the Physician's Global Assessment (PGA). Patients' parents rated GERD symptoms of heartburn, acid regurgitation, and epigastric pain (none to severe, 0–3) at baseline (based on past 72 hours) and daily (from past 24 hours).

Results:

Of 109 patients randomized, 108 had safety data. AEs were experienced by 68.0% and 65.2% of children <20 kg receiving esomeprazole 5 and 10 mg, respectively, and 83.9% and 82.8% of children ≥20 kg receiving esomeprazole 10 and 20 mg, respectively, regardless of causality. Overall, only 9.3% of patients reported 13 treatment‐related AEs; the most common were diarrhea (2.8% [3/108]), headache (1.9% [2/108]), and somnolence (1.9% [2/108]). Vomiting, a serious AE in 2 patients, was not judged by the investigator to be related to treatment. At the final visit, PGA scores improved significantly from baseline (P < 0.001). Of 58 patients with moderate to severe baseline PGA symptom scores, 91.4% had lower scores by the final visit. GERD symptom scores were significantly improved from baseline to the final week of the study in all of the treatment groups (P < 0.01)

Conclusions:

In children ages 1 to 11 years with endoscopically proven GERD, esomeprazole (at daily doses of 5, 10, or 20 mg) was generally well tolerated. The frequency and severity of GERD‐related symptoms were significantly reduced during the active treatment period.
Probiotics and Prebiotics for Prevention of Food Allergy
Authors: Koletzko Sibylle
Published: February 2024

Probiotics are defined as “live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”. Unfortunately, misuse of the term probiotic is very common. According to the regulation of the European food safety authority (EFSA) health claims on pre‐ and probiotics are not judged as favorable. Scientific societies should give guidance to the consumers and health care professionals on the use of probiotics and prebiotics for prevention and disease management. There is currently no positive recommendation from international scientific medical societies to use prebiotics or probiotics for treatment of food allergy or other allergic manifestations and for prevention of food allergy, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. Discrepant recommendations exist for probiotics for prevention of eczema in high risk infants.
Ultrasmall polyvinylpyrrolidone‐modified iridium nanoparticles with antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activity for acute pancreatitis alleviation
Authors: Jin Wenzhang , Xie Xueting , Shen Shuqi , Zhou Xingjian , Wang Shunfu , Zhang Lijiang , Su Xiang
Published: February 2024

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common and serious acute inflammatory disease with high severity rate and mortality. Inflammation and oxidative stress play an extremely important role in the development of AP disease. Polyvinylpyrrolidone‐modified iridium nanoparticles (IrNP‐PVP) have multienzyme mimetic activity, and the aim of this article is to discuss the therapeutic alleviative effects of the ultrasmall nanozymes IrNP‐PVP on AP through their antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. IrNP‐PVP were proved to inhibit inflammation and scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the cellular level. The synthetic IrNP‐PVP exhibit remarkable antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities in the prevention and treatment of AP mice by establishing murine AP model, which can reduce the oxidative stress and inflammatory response. The results of this article indicated that the ultrasmall nanozymes IrNP‐PVP effectively alleviate AP via scavenging ROS as well as suppressing inflammation both in vivo and in vitro, which might provide enormous promise for the AP management.
NDC1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma tumorigenesis by targeting BCAP31 to activate PI3K/AKT signaling
Authors: Liu Ya‐ping , Guo Gang , Ren Mudan , Li Ya‐rui , Guo Dan , She Jun‐jun , He Shui‐xiang
Published: February 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the world's worst malignancies. Nuclear division cycle 1 (NDC1) is an essential membrane‐integral nucleoporin, found in this study to be significantly increased in primary HCC. A multivariate analysis revealed that higher NDC1 expression was linked to worse outcome in HCC patients. Mouse xenograft tumors overexpressing NDC1 grew rapidly, and HCC cells overexpressing NDC1 showed enhanced proliferation, invasion, and migration in vitro. In contrast, knocking down NDC1 had the opposite effects in vitro. Furthermore, co‐immunoprecipitation and liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer analyses revealed that NDC1 activated PI3K/AKT signaling by interacting with BCAP31. In summary, NDC1 and BCAP31 cooperate to promote the PI3K/AKT pathway, which is essential for HCC carcinogenesis. This suggests that NDC1 is predictive of prognosis in HCC.
Identification of potent BRD4‐BD1 inhibitors using classical and steered molecular dynamics based free energy analysis
Authors: Gupta Ashish , Purohit Rituraj
Published: February 2024

In the present work a combination of traditional and steered molecular dynamics based techniques were employed to identify potential inhibitors against the human BRD4 protein (BRD4‐ BD1); an established drug target for multiple illnesses including various malignancies. Quinoline derivatives that were synthesized in‐house were tested for their potential as new BRD4‐BD1 inhibitors. Initially molecular docking experiments were performed to determine the binding poses of BRD4‐BD1 inhibitors. To learn more about the thermodynamics of inhibitor binding to the BRD4‐BD1 active site, the Molecular Mechanics Poisson‐Boltzmann Surface Area (MM‐PBSA) free energy calculations were conducted afterwards. The findings of the MM‐PBSA analysis were further reinforced by performing steered umbrella sampling simulations which revealed crucial details about the binding/unbinding process of the most potent quinoline derivatives at the BRD4‐BD1 active site. We report a novel quinoline derivative which can be developed into a fully functional BRD4‐BD1 inhibitor after experimental validation. The identified compound (4 g) shows better properties than the standard BRD4‐BD1 inhibitors considered in the study. The study also highlights the crucial role of Gln78, Phe79, Trp81, Pro82, Phe83, Gln84, Gln85, Val87, Leu92, Leu94, Tyr97, Met105, Cys136, Asn140, Ile146 and Met149 in inhibitor binding. The study provides a possible lead candidate and key amino acids involved in inhibitor recognition and binding at the active site of BRD4‐BD1 protein. The findings might be of significance to medicinal chemists involved in the development of potent BRD4‐BD1 inhibitors.
New constructions for disjoint partial difference families and external partial difference families
Authors: Huczynska Sophie , Johnson Laura
Published: February 2024

Recently, new combinatorial structures called disjoint partial difference families (DPDFs) and external partial difference families (EPDFs) were introduced, which simultaneously generalize partial difference sets, disjoint difference families and external difference families, and have applications in information security. So far, all known construction methods have used cyclotomy in finite fields. We present the first noncyclotomic infinite families of DPDFs which are also EPDFs, in structures other than finite fields (in particular cyclic groups and nonabelian groups). As well as direct constructions, we present an approach to constructing DPDFs/EPDFs using relative difference sets (RDSs); as part of this, we demonstrate how the well‐known RDS result of Bose extends to a very natural construction for DPDFs and EPDFs.
The equivalence of psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for depressive disorders in adults: A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Smith Martin M. , Hewitt Paul L.
Published: February 2024

Background

Meta‐analyses on the relative efficacy of psychodynamic psychotherapy (PDT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for depressive disorders are limited by heterogeneity in diagnostic samples and comparators and a lack of equivalence testing.

Objective

We addressed this through a meta‐analytic test of the equivalence of manualized PDT and CBT in treating adults with depressive disorders as determined by diagnostic interviews. Sensitivity analyses evaluated the impact of pretreatment differences, mixed diagnostic samples, author allegiance, study quality, year of publication and outliers on findings.

Method

A comprehensive literature search across multiple databases using reliable screening methods identified nine randomized controlled trials directly comparing manualized PDT and CBT for diagnosed depressive disorders in adults. Following pre‐registration, we employed random effect models for our meta‐analyses and two one‐sided test procedures for equivalence testing.

Results

Independent raters determined that all studies were of adequate quality. Immediately posttreatment, depressive symptoms were statistically equivalent across PDT and CBT (k = 9;g = −0.11, 90% confidence interval [90% CI]: −0.24 to 0.02,pequivalence = .048,pNHST = .212,I2 = 32.7). At follow‐up, the longest time point within a year, depressive symptoms were neither statistically equivalent nor statistically different (k = 6;g = −0.16, 90% CI: −0.31 to −0.02,pequivalence = .184,pNHST = .126,I2 = 0.00).

Conclusion

The efficacy of manualized PDT is equal to manualized CBT immediately at posttreatment for depressive disorders in the adult general population. Nevertheless, insufficient data exists to reach a conclusion regarding equivalence at follow‐up.
Time to put aside the false dichotomy between personality disorders and psychotic symptoms
Authors: Leclerc Philippe , Gamache Dominick , Cailhol Lionel
Published: February 2024

Unlike internalizing and externalizing symptoms, psychotic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusions) are manifestations of personality disorders (PDs) that are more controversial and poorly understood. This leaves clinicians with very little guidance for clinical practice, especially for diagnosis. What is more, most reviews have focused strictly on the links between psychotic symptoms and the categorically defined borderline PD, which contrasts with the growing movement that emphasizes a dimensional perspective (especially in psychology). Thus, the objectives of this critical review will be to (a) expose typical cases where PDs and psychotic symptoms might cooccur; (b) assess the state of scientific knowledge surrounding PD and psychotic symptoms; and (c) provide clinicians and researchers with recommendations to keep the field moving forward. We conclude that researchers and clinicians should move past the false “PD or psychosis” dichotomy since they often cooccur, avoid (as far as possible) making psychotic symptoms an exclusion criterion in PD research to enhance ecological validity, and consider dimensional PD diagnosis as a potential unifying solution to the dilemma posed by this cooccurrence.
Psychometric network analysis of the Intuitive Eating Scale‐2 in Chinese general adults
Authors: Ji Feng , Sun Hongyi , Barnhart Wesley R. , Cui Tianxiang , Cui Shuqi , Zhang Jihong , He Jinbo
Published: February 2024

The Intuitive Eating Scale‐2 (IES‐2) is a measure of intuitive eating behaviors that has been extensively validated, with traditional latent variable modeling approaches, in youth and adults from many different populations, including college students in China. However, there is still a lack of research on the psychometric properties of the IES‐2 in adults from the Chinese general population. Moreover, psychometric network analysis, as a complement to traditional latent variable modeling approaches, has not been used for examining the psychometric properties of the IES‐2. Thus, the present study used a psychometric network approach to evaluate the psychometric properties of the IES‐2 in Chinese adults from the general population. A sample of 700 Chinese general adults (50% women; Mage = 31.13 years, SD = 9.19) recruited online were included in the present study. Psychometric network analysis was performed. Exploratory graph analysis (EGA) identified four dimensions, which were well separated in the estimated network. The network structure showed excellent stability and metric measurement invariance (i.e., network loadings) across men and women. Furthermore, several items on the IES‐2 were identified as key nodes in the network of the IES‐2 that may be important for the development and maintenance of intuitive eating. For example, two items (i.e., “I trust my body to tell me when to eat,” and “I trust my body to tell me when to stop eating”) related to reliance on body cues were the most impactful nodes in the complete network. The findings of our study provide a greater understanding of the IES‐2 from the perspective of network analysis and have implications for applications of intuitive eating interventions for general populations.
Effect of iron powder on hydrogen sulfide reduction and phosphate removal in semi‐continuous anaerobic digestion treating primary sludge
Authors: Oh Seung‐Jun , Ha Seung‐Han , Noh Eui Jeong , Shin Seung Gu , Ahn Johng‐Hwa
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

To our best knowledge, no experimental study has previously investigated the simultaneous effects of adding Fe powder for the decrease of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in biogas and the removal of phosphate (PO4‐P) in continuous anaerobic digestion (AD). This study investigated the effects of iron (Fe) powder (5 g L−1) in AD to remove H2S and PO4‐P. A comparative experiment was conducted using two semi‐continuous‐flow anaerobic digesters treating primary sludge at decreasing hydraulic retention times (HRTs) of 20 to 10 days.

RESULTS

The addition of Fe powder to AD removed > 98% of H2S at all HRTs, and removed 64–72% of PO4‐P, with the highest removal efficiency at HRT = 10 d. The addition of Fe powder to AD had no noticeable effect on biogas production or pH, but it increased the CH4 content (62.7–66.0% in Fe‐treated vs 58.2–60.4% in the Control) partly due to the greater presence of Methanoregulaceae. The relative abundance of the microbial groups was more affected by HRT than by the addition of Fe powder. The presence of Fe powder notably increased the abundance of Spirochaetaceae and Syntrophaceae.

CONCLUSION

As shown, the addition of Fe powder can improve the management of both H2S in the biogas and PO4‐P in the digested sludge in the AD system. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
ZnO nanomaterials with enhanced antimicrobial activity obtained by Eichhornia crassipes aqueous extract‐mediated synthesis
Authors: López González Rosendo , Gutiérrez Mirian Hernández , García Ruth Lezama , Gómez Cornelio Sergio Alberto , Lobato Carlos , Gómez‐Rivera Abraham , Quintana Owen Patricia , Alvarez Lemus Mayra Angélica
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were obtained through precipitation synthesis, using aqueous water hyacinth leaf extract (Eichhornia crassipes) under alkaline conditions. The effect of the extract on the physicochemical and antimicrobial properties of the ZnO was evaluated starting from concentrated extract (labeled as E100) and performing two dilutions of this concentrated extract at 50% and 25% in water (E50, and E25).

RESULTS

The FTIR spectra revealed strong peaks at ≈3440 cm−1, corresponding to vibrations from OH stretching, and medium‐intense peaks at 1384 and 1327 cm−1, assigned to CC, COOH and COC vibrations, which are related to the presence of the extract; a weak band at 884 cm−1 and a broad band in the region below 600 cm−1 indicate the presence of ZnO. The hydrodynamic size of the ZnOE100, ZnOE50 and ZnOE25 samples were 202, 244 and 313 nm, respectively. No significant variations on the Eg value were observed. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images showed that the ZnO NPs have triangular‐like shapes and agglomeration of the NPs synthesized for the ZnOE25 sample. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the ZnO NPs showed no significant effects related to the concentration the plant extract used.

CONCLUSIONS

Variations in particle size and zeta potential can be introduced in ZnO by varying the content of the extract; the presence of organic groups from the extract, along with a positive zeta potential value, can promote the bactericide effect of ZnO nanomaterials prepared by bio‐assisted synthesis. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Enzymatic Knoevenagel condensation in dual‐functionalized water‐mimicking ionic liquids and tertiary amide solvents
Authors: Zhao Hua , Campbell Chante' D
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Knoevenagel condensation is an important tool for building carbon–carbon (CC) bonds, especially when catalyzed by enzymes to enable a potentially high chemo‐, regio‐ and/or stereoselectivity. Although many Knoevenagel condensation reactions are carried out in aqueous solutions, insoluble hydrophobic substrates often lead to poor catalytic efficiencies. The use of water‐miscible organic solvents improves the substrate solubilization, but usually induces activity suppression or inactivation of enzymes. There is a great need to develop alternative solvents for both substrate dissolution and enzyme compatibility in CC bond formation reactions.

RESULTS

Our group previously developed dual‐functionalized water‐mimicking ionic liquids (ILs) for the activation and stabilization of hydrolases (e.g. lipase and protease). In the present study, we evaluated the Knoevenagel condensation of 4‐chlorobenzaldehyde with acetylacetone, and found that porcine pancreas lipase in water‐mimicking ILs carrying ammonium, imidazolium and benzimidazolium cations enabled higher reaction rates (up to 3.22 μmol min−1 g−1 lipase) and better yields than tert‐butanol, glymes and [BMIM][Tf2N]. Interestingly, tertiary amide solvents such as N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP), N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) and N,N‐dimethylacetamide (DMAc) led to 8.2‐ to 11.1‐fold increases in the initial rate (up to 35.66 μmol min−1 g−1 lipase) when compared with dual‐functionalized ILs, which is likely due to some synergistic effect of these tertiary amides with the lipase.

CONCLUSION

Dual‐functionalized ILs based on ammonium, imidazolium and benzimidazolium cations improved Knoevenagel condensation reaction rates and yields when compared with tert‐butanol and glymes. Tertiary amides (NMP, DMF and DMAc) significantly increased the reaction rate. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Comparison and discussion of behavior and pathology of four kinds of cerebral palsy disease models
Authors: Xu Jinyan , Yan Siyang , Xia Chen , Xue Jianyi , Yu Wentao , Yan Yuanjie , Yin Zhenjin
Published: February 2024

Explore the differences in behavioral and pathological manifestations of rat models of cerebral palsy made by different methods and discuss what types of studies these models are suitable for. Behavioral evaluation and pathological section observation were used to observe and evaluate the model. Conclusion: except for the absence of data of bilateral common carotid artery ligation rats, the other three methods could all achieve a successful cerebral palsy disease model for both behavioral and pathological. For researchers, the selection of intraperitoneal infection model in pregnant rats or unilateral ischemia and hypoxia model in infant rats is sufficient to meet the experimental needs, whereas the selection of the combined method for modeling does not show enough advantages, which not only causes the waste of financial and human resources but also increases the possibility of experimental error made by intervention factors.
Substantial gene expression shifts during larval transitions in the pearl oyster Pinctada margaritifera
Authors: Destanque T. , Le Luyer J. , Quillien V. , Sham Koua M. , Auffrey P. , Ky C.‐L.
Published: February 2024

Early development stages in marine bivalve are critical periods where larvae transition from pelagic free‐life to sessile mature individuals. The successive metamorphosis requires the expression of key genes, the functions of which might be under high selective pressure, hence understanding larval development represents key knowledge for both fundamental and applied research. Phenotypic larvae development is well known, but the underlying molecular mechanisms such as associated gene expression dynamic and molecular cross‐talks remains poorly described for several nonmodel species, such as P. margaritifera. We designed a whole transcriptome RNA‐sequencing analysis to describe such gene expression dynamics following four larval developmental stages: 
d‐shape, Veliger, Umbo and Eye‐spot. Larval gene expression and annotated functions drastically diverge. Metabolic function (gene expression related to lipid, amino acid and carbohydrate use) is highly upregulated in the first development stages, with increasing demand from 
d‐shape to umbo. Morphogenesis and larval transition are partly ordered by Thyroid hormones and Wnt signaling. While larvae shells show some similar characteristic to adult shells, the cause of initialization of biomineralization differ from the one found in adults. The present study provides a global overview of Pinctada margaritifera larval stages transitioning through gene expression dynamics, molecular mechanisms and ontogeny of biomineralization, immune system, and sensory perception processes.
Exploring genetic counselors' experiences with non‐paternity in clinical settings
Authors: Cunningham Emma , Hays Stephen , Wainstein Tasha , Zierhut Heather , Virani Alice , Tryon Rebecca
Published: February 2024

Non‐paternity (NP) is a challenging dilemma faced by genetics providers and there is little consensus on whether this finding should be disclosed. Discussions in the literature are highly theoretical, with limited research regarding how disclosure decisions are enacted in practice. We explored genetic counselors' (GCs) clinical experiences with NP to understand if, how, and why this finding is communicated. Our semi‐structured interviews with genetic counselors in the United States and Canada were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to analyze data inductively, describe themes, and present a meaningful interpretation of the data. Eighteen participants who responded to list‐serv messages were interviewed. Our framework describes five salient themes: (1) GC‐lab relationship: the GCs awareness of laboratory processes such as quality control metrics that can uncover NP findings and the way in which a finding of NP was disclosed by the laboratory had an impact on disclosure decisions. This triggered a decision‐making trajectory that involved (2) consultation, (3) ethical reasoning, and (4) practical constraints. GCs frequently consulted other professionals during decision‐making. These conversations impacted disclosure decisions with some consultations carrying greater weight than others. GCs weighed moral concepts of patient autonomy, medical relevance, and preventing harm to rationalize decisions. Access to patients and documentation requirements often dictated how disclosure occurred. Finally, once a decision had been made and enacted, GCs used the experience to reconsider their approach to (5) consenting in future cases, with some GCs altering their pre‐test counseling to always include a discussion of NP. Although NP scenarios are frequently unique in context, our findings demonstrate several common decision‐making factors GCs harness to navigate the identification of NP through clinical genetic testing.
Characterization of the m6A/m1A/m5C/m7G‐related regulators on the prognosis and immune microenvironment of glioma by integrated analysis of scRNA‐seq and bulk RNA‐seq data
Authors: Yang Longkun , Huang Zhicong , Deng Ying , Zhang Xing , Lv Zhonghua , Huang Hao , Sun Qian , Liu Hui , Liang Hongsheng , He Baochang , Hu Fulan
Published: February 2024

Background

Proliferation, metabolism, tumor occurrence and development in gliomas are greatly influenced by RNA modifications. However, no research has integrated the four RNA methylation regulators of m6A, m1A, m5C and m7G in gliomas to analyze their relationship with glioma prognosis and intratumoral heterogeneity.

Methods

Based on three in‐house single‐cell RNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐seq) data, the glioma heterogeneity and characteristics of m6A/m1A/m5C/m7G‐related regulators were elucidated. Based on publicly available bulk RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) data, a risk‐score system for predicting the overall survival (OS) for gliomas was established by three machine learning methods and multivariate Cox regression analysis, and validated in an independent cohort.

Results

Seven cell types were identified in gliomas by three scRNA‐seq data, and 22 m6A/m1A/m5C/m7G‐related regulators among the marker genes of different cell subtypes were discovered. Three m6A/m1A/m5C/m7G‐related regulators were selected to construct prognostic risk‐score model, including EIFA, NSUN6 and TET1. The high‐risk patients showed higher immune checkpoint expression, higher tumor microenvironment scores, as well as higher tumor mutation burden and poorer prognosis compared with low‐risk patients. Additionally, the area under the curve values of the risk score and nomogram were 0.833 and 0.922 for 3 year survival and 0.759 and 0.885 for 5 year survival for gliomas. EIF3A was significantly highly expressed in glioma tissues in our in‐house RNA‐sequencing data (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These findings may contribute to further understanding of the role of m6A/m1A/m5C/m7G‐related regulators in gliomas, and provide novel and reliable biomarkers for gliomas prognosis and treatment.
Changes in bone marrow fibrosis during momelotinib or ruxolitinib therapy do not correlate with efficacy outcomes in patients with myelofibrosis
Authors: Oh Stephen T. , Verstovsek Srdan , Gupta Vikas , Platzbecker Uwe , Devos Timothy , Kiladjian Jean‐Jacques , McLornan Donal P. , Perkins Andrew , Fox Maria Laura , McMullin Mary Frances , Mead Adam J. , Egyed Miklos , Mayer Jiri , Sacha Tomasz , Kawashima Jun , Huang Mei , Strouse Bryan , Mesa Ruben
Published: February 2024

Bone marrow fibrosis (BMF) is a pathological feature of myelofibrosis, with higher grades associated with poor prognosis. Limited data exist on the association between outcomes and BMF changes. We present BMF data from Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor–naive patients from SIMPLIFY‐1 (NCT01969838), a double‐blind, randomized, phase 3 study of momelotinib vs ruxolitinib. Baseline and week 24 bone marrow biopsies were graded from 0 to 3 as per World Health Organization criteria. Other assessments included Total Symptom Score, spleen volume, transfusion independence status, and hemoglobin levels. Paired samples were available from 144 and 160 patients randomized to momelotinib and ruxolitinib. With momelotinib and ruxolitinib, transfusion independence was achieved by 87% and 44% of patients with BMF improvement of ≥1 grade and 76% and 56% of those with stable/worsening BMF; there was no association between BMF changes and transfusion independence for either arm (momelotinib, p = .350; ruxolitinib, p = .096). Regardless of BMF changes, hemoglobin levels also generally increased on momelotinib but decreased on ruxolitinib. In addition, no associations between BMF changes and spleen (momelotinib, p = .126; ruxolitinib, p = .407)/symptom (momelotinib, p = .617; ruxolitinib, p = .833) outcomes were noted, and no improvement in overall survival was observed with ≥1‐grade BMF improvement (momelotinib, p = .395; ruxolitinib, p = .407). These data suggest that the anemia benefit of momelotinib is not linked to BMF changes, and question the use of BMF assessment as a surrogate marker for clinical benefit with JAK inhibitors.
Role of lymphatic endothelium specific hyaluronan receptor 1 in virus infection and associated diseases
Authors: Dai Lu , Qin Zhiqiang
Published: February 2024

Lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 (LYVE‐1) serves as a prominent marker for lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and is pivotal in the process of lymphangiogenesis, a critical factor in cancer development and metastasis. Overexpression of LYVE‐1 has been observed in various cancers, where it is recognized as an adverse prognostic indicator. Targeting LYVE‐1 has demonstrated inhibitory effects on tumor cell proliferation, migration, and the formation of lymph node metastases both in vitro and in vivo. While extensive research has focused on the role of LYVE‐1 in cancer cells, its involvement in virus infection and associated diseases remains largely unexplored. This review consolidates recent findings regarding the expression of LYVE‐1 and its functions in lymphangiogenesis during various viral infections and the development of related diseases, with a particular emphasis on Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus. Despite the limited available data, it is evident that further studies are essential to comprehensively understand the contribution of LYVE‐1 to viral pathogenesis and oncogenesis.
Prevalence and significance of HPV DNA detection below the clinical threshold of the commercial kit Alinity m HR‐HPV assay (Abbott)
Authors: Node Juliette , Dor Fanny , Puget Line , Ramanah Rajeev , Cot Sophie , Bibeau Frédéric , Di Domizio Nolwen , Prétet Jean‐Luc , Lepiller Quentin
Published: February 2024

The positive clinical threshold of human papillomavirus (HPV) tests validated for primary cervical cancer screening (CCS) is designed to offer an optimal balance between clinical sensitivity and specificity. However, there may be a gap between the analytical sensitivity of the test and the positive clinical threshold, referred to here as the “gray‐zone.” This study aims to determine the prevalence and significance of HPV results obtained in the gray‐zone in routine practice. Cervical samples obtained in our institution for CCS over a 22‐month‐period were tested with the Alinity m HR‐HPV Assay (Abbott). Clinical and biological data, including cytological results and patients' HPV history were collected. Of the 6101 samples collected, 1.7% had an HPV result in the gray‐zone (102 patients). The proportion of gray‐zone results varied according to HPV genotype, reaching 11.8% of samples with detectable HPV DNA in the case of HPV31/33/52/58 genotypes. Reflex cytologies showed no abnormalities or Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance results in 74.6% and 17.9% of cases, respectively. A previous or subsequent HPV‐positive result with a (possibly) identical genotype was observed in 58% and 38% of cases, respectively. Two women with a history of persistent HPV detection had a CIN2+ lesion 1 year after the gray‐zone result. In conclusion, the proportion of HPV results in the gray‐zone varies according to genotype. No cytological abnormality is observed in the majority of cases, but a few rare patients with a history of persistent HPV infection should be closely monitored even if the HPV result is transiently located in the gray‐zone.
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and other autonomic dysfunctions following COVID‐19: Incidence, characteristics, and associated factors
Authors: Tanking Chonthicha , Lakkananurak Chanokporn , Srisakvarakul Chaval , Jitpreeda Amaraluk , Threechod Kullisara , Sukitpunyaroj Damrong
Published: February 2024

Background

Long‐COVID syndrome has become a new health concern. Many major clinical centers have experienced more patients with symptoms suggestive of autonomic dysfunction, especially postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) following COVID‐19. However, there is a lack of information regarding the incidence and associated factors in Asian population.

Methods

A retro‐prospective study was conducted to evaluate patients with symptoms suggestive of POTS or other autonomic dysfunctions. These symptoms last at least 3 months after PCR‐proven COVID‐19. Exclusion criteria were age under 18 years old, pregnancy, and pre‐COVID‐19 autonomic dysfunction symptoms. Patients with a symptom severity score greater than two were assessed with blood tests, 24‐h Holter, 24‐h ambulatory blood pressure, echocardiogram, and head‐up tilt table (HUTT).

Results

Seven hundred ninety‐three patients were interviewed at 146 ± 37 days after COVID‐19. The majority of patients were middle‐aged females (53%). Of those, 15 patients had the symptom severity score greater than 2. Out of those 15 patients, 12 had positive HUTT (1 demonstrating POTS, 10 neurocardiogenic syncope, and 1 orthostatic hypotension). Among those with positive HUTT patients, C‐reactive protein (CRP) was significantly higher (OR 1.01; p‐value 0.041). Fatigue and dyspnea on exertion were the two most complaint symptoms.

Conclusions

This study shows the incidence of autonomic dysfunction and POTS is 1.5% (12/793) and 0.1% POTS (1/793), respectively, in a primary care setting (among general post‐COVID‐19 patients). The most common symptoms for these patients were fatigue and dyspnea.
Characterization of dental calculus in the South American Quaternary proboscidean Notiomastodon platensis (Ameghino, 1888)
Authors: Fonseca De Paiva Ana Clara , Alves‐Silva Laís , De Souza Barbosa Fernando Henrique
Published: February 2024

Dental calculus, or tartar, is a mineralized biofilm that develops on the teeth, and is often observed on the teeth of the South American proboscidean Notiomastodon platensis. This structure can provide details on paleoecological, paleoenvironmental and paleopathological aspects of a species. However, characterization of tartar in N. platensis is lacking. The aim of this study was to provide a macromorphological characterization of tartar on N. platensis molars, and evaluate its prevalence, distribution patterns and severity. A total of 117 molariforms from Brazilian Quaternary fossiliferous assemblages were analyzed. Thirty‐five (29.9%) molars presented tartar. The majority displayed moderate severity. Calculus was present at least on one inteloph(id) of each molar, and prevailed on the posterior region. It predominated on lower and third molars. Adult individuals showed a predominance compared to juveniles. These patterns in N. platensis are probably due to the susceptible oral environment, molar morphology, mature age and tooth replacement. These results suggest that N. platensis and probably other proboscideans were relatively susceptible to tartar development.
Experimental and theoretical study on the facet‐dependent SERS activity of α‐Fe2O3 films
Authors: Wang Yifan , Wen Peipei , Niu Lengyuan , Chen Yang , Luo Yuwei , Gong Yinyan , Li Can , Xu Shiqing
Published: February 2024

Semiconductors have attracted great attention for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) applications due to their rich variety, adjustable band structure, good chemical stability, and biocompatibility. However, their intrinsic weak SERS activity limited the further development of semiconductor substrates. Here, the α‐Fe2O3 films with high {
} and {
} facet exposure ratios were fabricated through an electrodeposition method with the existence of NH4Cl and CH3COONa. The α‐Fe2O3{
} and α‐Fe2O3{
} films show excellent SERS properties with enhancement factor of 4.155×103 and 5.481×103, as well as the relatively low limit of detection down to 2 × 10−7 M for 4‐nitrobenzenethiol. Meanwhile, the lower relative standard deviation values (<10%) confirm the well uniformity of as‐prepared substrates. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy analysis reveals that the α‐Fe2O3{
} possesses the lower work function, which could guarantee the efficient interfacial charge transfer between substrates and probe molecules. Moreover, first principles calculations further indicates that the charge transfer efficiency on {
} facet can be effectively improved, and thus significantly enhance the SERS activity of α‐Fe2O3. The current study provides a strategy for the fabrication and application of semiconductor‐based SERS substrates.
Interactions between proteins and phenolics: effects of food processing on the content and digestibility of phenolic compounds
Authors: Nemli Elifsu , Ozkan Gulay , Gultekin Subasi Busra , Cavdar Humeyra , Lorenzo Jose M. , Zhao Chao , Capanoglu Esra
Published: February 2024

Phenolic compounds have recently become one of the most interesting topics in different research areas, especially in food science and nutrition due to their health‐promoting effects. Phenolic compounds are found together with macronutrients and micronutrients in foods and within several food systems. The coexistence of phenolics and other food components can lead to their interaction resulting in complex formation. This review article aims to cover the effects of thermal and non‐thermal processing techniques on the protein–phenolic interaction especially focusing on the content and digestibility of phenolics by discussing recently published research articles. It is clear that the processing conditions and individual properties of phenolics and proteins are the most effective factors in the final content and intestinal fates of phenolic compounds. Besides, thermal and non‐thermal treatments, such as high‐pressure processing, pulsed electric field, cold plasma, ultrasonication, and fermentation may induce alterations  in those interactions. Still, new investigations are required for different food processing treatments by using a wide range of food products to enlighten new functional and healthier food product design, to provide the optimized processing conditions of foods for obtaining better quality, higher nutritional properties, and health benefits. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.