bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thyroid nodules with DICER1 mutation or PTEN alteration: A comparative cytologic, clinical, and molecular study of 117 FNA cases
Authors: Jitpasutham Tikamporn , Andrianus Stefen , Gubbiotti Maria , Nosé Vania , Baloch Zubair W. , Madrigal Emilio , Faquin William C.
Published: April 2024

Background

DICER1 mutations and PTEN alterations are increasingly detected by thyroid fine‐needle aspiration (FNA). Both are associated with nodular thyroid disease and cancer. The authors analyzed a large comparative thyroid FNA cohort with DICER1 mutation or PTEN alteration.

Methods

A total of 117 thyroid FNAs with DICER1 or PTEN alterations were retrieved from the databases of two academic medical institutions. Demographic, clinical, and radiologic data were collected; FNA slides were analyzed for 29 cytomorphologic features.

Results

Of 117 thyroid FNAs, 36 (30.8%) had DICER1 mutation and 81 (69.2%) showed PTEN alteration. The DICER1 cohort had 33 (91.7%) females and three (8.3%) males (mean, 40.9 years); 61.8% had multinodular disease. FNAs were classified as atypia of undetermined significance (AUS), 23 (63.9%); follicular neoplasm (FN), 12 (33.3%); and malignant, 1 (2.8%). The PTEN subgroup had 66 (81.5%) females and 15 (18.5%) males (mean, 55.2 years) with increased multinodular disease (93.8%, p = .0016). PTEN FNAs had greater cytologic diversity: non‐diagnostic, 2 (2.5%); benign, 5 (6.2%); AUS, 44 (54.3%); FN, 24 (29.6%); and malignant, 6 (7.4%). Both DICER1 and PTEN cases showed a range of resected tumor subtypes. The DICER1 cohort included thyroblastoma, and the PTEN group included anaplastic carcinoma. The cytomorphology of DICER1 and PTEN cases showed overlapping features, especially microfollicular patterns. Minor cytomorphologic differences included papillary patterns in DICER1 (p = .039), and oncocytic changes (p < .0001) in PTEN.

Conclusions

DICER1 and PTEN FNAs reveal many cytologic similarities. DICER1 patients are younger, and PTEN patients had multinodular disease. Awareness of these genetic cohorts can identify patients at risk for thyroid cancer.
Numerical simulation of the distal stent graft‐induced new entry after TEVAR
Authors: Li Meixuan , Ma Tao , Cai Yunhan , Li Jianming , Meng Zhuangyuan , Dong Zhihui , Wang Shengzhang
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to investigate the mechanical factors for distal stent graft‐induced new entry (dSINE) in aortic dissection patients and discussed these factors in conjunction with aortic morphology. Two patients (one dSINE and one non‐dSINE), with the same age, gender, and type of implanted stent, were selected, then aortic morphological parameters were calculated. In addition, the stent material parameters used by the patients were also fitted. Simulations were performed based on the patient's aortic model and the stent graft used. The true lumen segment at the distal stent graft was designated as the “dSINE risk zone,” and mechanical parameters (maximum principal strain, maximum principal stress) were computed. When approaching the area with higher mechanical parameters in the dSINE risk zone, dSINE patient exhibited higher values and growth rates in mechanical parameters compared to non‐dSINE patient. Furthermore, dSINE patient also presented larger aortic taper ratio, stent oversizing ratio, and expansion mismatch ratio of the distal true lumen (EMRDTR). The larger mechanical parameters and growth rates in dSINE patient corresponded to a greater aortic taper ratio, stent oversizing ratio, and EMRDTR. The failure of dSINE prediction by the stent tortuosity index indicated that mechanical parameters were the fundamental reasons for dSINE development.
Flow resistance law in channels with emergent rigid vegetation
Authors: Nicosia Alessio , Palmeri Vincenzo , Ferro Vito
Published: March 2024

Flow resistance estimate is a challenging topic for establishing flooding propensity of streams, designing river restoration works, and evaluating the use of soil bioengineering practices. In this paper, flume measurements with rigid cylinders set in two arrangements (aligned, staggered) were used to evaluate the effect of rigid emergent vegetation on flow resistance. A well‐known theoretical flow resistance equation was firstly reviewed. Then, it was calibrated and tested by measurements performed for these arrangements with six concentrations (0.53–11.62 stems dm−2). The analysis was conducted using three approaches: (i) distinguishing the experimental runs corresponding to different arrangements and stem concentrations; (ii) using only a scale factor representing the effect of the stem concentration; and (iii) joining all available data. The results demonstrated that the flow resistance equation gives an accurate estimate of the Darcy–Weisbach friction factor f, characterized, for the best approach among the tested ones, by errors less than or equal to ±5% for 95.9% of the examined cases for the aligned arrangement and for the staggered arrangement less than or equal to ±5% for 94.2% of the examined cases. For both arrangements, the measurements demonstrated that, for a given longitudinal distance between vegetation elements, flow resistance increases for decreasing values of the transverse distance and, for a given transverse distance, f decreases for increasing values of the longitudinal distance between elements. Finally, in the range of the investigated stem concentrations, the influence of the arrangement on flow resistance resulted negligible.
Serial direct sodium removal in patients with heart failure and diuretic resistance
Authors: Rao Veena S. , Ivey‐Miranda Juan B. , Cox Zachary L. , Moreno‐Villagomez Julieta , Ramos‐Mastache Daniela , Neville Daniel , Balkcom Natasha , Asher Jennifer L. , Bellumkonda Lavanya , Bigvava Tamar , Shaburishvili Tamaz , Bartunek Jozef , Wilson F. Perry , Finkelstein Fredrick , Maulion Christopher , Turner Jeffrey M. , Testani Jeffrey M.
Published: April 2024

Aims

Loop diuretics may exacerbate cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) in heart failure (HF). Direct sodium removal (DSR) using the peritoneal membrane, in conjunction with complete diuretic withdrawal, may improve CRS and diuretic resistance.

Methods and results

Patients with HF requiring high‐dose loop diuretics were enrolled in two prospective, single‐arm studies: RED DESERT (n = 8 euvolaemic patients), and SAHARA (n = 10 hypervolaemic patients). Loop diuretics were withdrawn, and serial DSR was utilized to achieve and maintain euvolaemia. At baseline, participants required a median 240 mg (interquartile range [IQR] 200–400) oral furosemide equivalents/day, which was withdrawn in all participants during DSR (median time of DSR 4 weeks [IQR 4–6]). Diuretic response (queried by formal 40 mg intravenous furosemide challenge and 6 h urine sodium quantification) increased substantially from baseline (81 ± 37 mmol) to end of DSR (223 ± 71 mmol, p < 0.001). Median time to re‐initiate diuretics was 87 days, and the median re‐initiation dose was 8% (IQR 6–10%) of baseline. At 1 year, diuretic dose remained substantially below baseline (30 [IQR 7.5–40] mg furosemide equivalents/day). Multiple dimensions of kidney function such as filtration, uraemic toxin excretion, kidney injury, and electrolyte handling improved (p < 0.05 for all). HF‐related biomarkers including N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, carbohydrate antigen‐125, soluble ST2, interleukin‐6, and growth differentiation factor‐15 (p < 0.003 for all) also improved.

Conclusions

In patients with HF and diuretic resistance, serial DSR therapy with loop diuretic withdrawal was feasible and associated with substantial and persistent improvement in diuretic resistance and several cardiorenal parameters. If replicated in randomized controlled studies, DSR may represent a novel therapy for diuretic resistance and CRS.

Clinical Trial Registration: RED DESERT (NCT04116034), SAHARA (NCT04882358).
Monitoring the Degradation of Metal‐Organic Framework Drug Nanocarriers by In‐Situ NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Vuong Mai Dang Le , Haouas Mohamed , Gref Ruxandra , Martineau‐Corcos Charlotte
Published: April 2024

An accurate characterization methodology is indispensable to design nanoparticle‐based drug delivery system (DDS) adapted to specific diseases and therapies. However, characterization techniques employed to investigate drug release and nanoparticle degradation require separating the nanoparticles from their suspension media, which can lead to artefacts. Therefore, there is a clear need to implement novel versatile in‐situ methods. Here, we report the use of in‐situ NMR spectroscopy to monitor drug delivery processes from MOF nanocarriers, both in solution and in the solid state simultaneously. In‐situ 1H NMR investigation of nanoMIL‐100(Al) suspension in phosphate medium enabled recording the trimesate ligand loss in the solid phase and the ligand release in the liquid phase as a function of time. Simultaneously, 27Al NMR enabled assessing the progressive replacement of carboxylate ligands by phosphates leading to the formation of new aluminum species. Using the same strategy, we also compared the degradation of nanoMIL‐100(Al) loaded with two drug analogs, highlighting an effect of metal‐ligand complexing strength. Furthermore, our in‐situ technique is applicable to studying the reaction of paramagnetic nanoMIL‐100(Fe) in the liquid phase. This work offers an alternative to ex‐situ techniques for understanding the degradation mechanism of MOF nanocarriers and could be an asset for other nanoscale DDSs.
Association of Parkinson's disease to Parkinson's plus syndromes, Lewy body dementia, and Alzheimer's dementia
Authors: Prajjwal Priyadarshi , Kolanu Nikhil Deep , Reddy Yeruva Bheemeswara , Ahmed Aneeqa , Marsool Mohammed Dheyaa Marsool , Santoshi Krupanagram , Pattani Himani Harshad , John Jobby , Chandrasekar Kiran Kishor , Hussin Omniat Amir
Published: April 2024

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a condition that affects movement and is usually seen in those over the age of 50. It is caused by the death of dopaminergic neurons, particularly in the substantia nigra. PD has shifted from being perceived as an uncommon condition to a significant neurological illness, mostly due to the increasing number of elderly individuals and the impact of environmental factors. Parkinson's plus syndromes, such as progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), multiple system atrophy (MSA), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), and vascular Parkinsonism (VaP), provide difficulties in distinguishing them clinically from PD since they have similar characteristics.

Methodology

A thorough examination was performed utilizing the PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The search utilized specific keywords like “Parkinson's disease,” “Parkinson's plus syndrome,” “Lewy body dementia,” “Alzheimer's dementia,” “progressive supranuclear palsy,” and “multiple system atrophy.” The selection criteria were aimed at English‐language literature, with a particular focus on examining the connection between PD and associated disorders or dementias.

Results and Discussion

Parkinson's plus syndromes, such as PSP, MSA, CBD, and VaP, exhibit unique clinical characteristics, imaging results, and diverse reactions to levodopa. This makes it difficult to distinguish them from PD. LBD is characterized by Lewy bodies containing α‐synuclein, which leads to both motor and cognitive deficits. PD and Alzheimer's disease (AD) exhibit a complex interaction, including common pathogenic processes, genetic predispositions, and clinical characteristics of dementia.

Conclusion

The interrelatedness of PD, Parkinson's plus syndromes, LBD, and AD highlights the significance of comprehending shared disease‐causing processes. Aberrant protein clumping, impaired functioning of mitochondria, increased oxidative stress, and inflammation in the brain are common factors which can be addressed for specific treatments. More research is essential for understanding complicated connections and developing effective therapies for these sophisticated neurological illnesses.
Anatomical features of ecological importance and taxonomic value revealed by scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy in Camonea umbellata (L.) A.R. Simões & Staples (Convolvulaceae)
Authors: dos Santos Edinalva Alves Vital , Leite Ana Virginia , de Arruda Emília Cristina Pereira
Published: April 2024

This article describes detailed and novel data on the anatomy and histochemistry of leaves, stems, and roots of Camonea umbellata (L.) A.R.Simões & Staples in different environments for the identification of characters with taxonomical value and of ecological importance, with provision of light and scanning electron microscopy images. To analyze the characters, we collected samples of the vegetative organs of three individuals in each of three populations, which were in a grazing area, an urban environment, and a biological reserve. The main diagnostic anatomical markers for the identification of C. umbellata include amphistomatic leaves, tetracytic and brachyparatetracytic stomata, peltate trichomes, long simple trichomes, epidermis with striated cuticle ornamentation, mesophyll with acute borders, presence of druses, secretory channels, angular collenchyma, fibrous pericycle in the stem, intraxylary phloem in the vegetative organs, oil bodies throughout the midrib, petiole, stem and root, and epicuticular waxes of the crust and coiled rodlet types. Since the characters above did not show variation in the environments evaluated, we consider these characters taxonomically useful for the identification of C. umbellata.

Research Highlights

The anatomy of the aerial vegetative organs of Camonnea umbellata retains common Convolvulaceae characters.

The sinuosity of the epidermal cell walls and the density of trichomes in the epidermis of the petiole were visually variable characters among the analyzed individuals.

Amphistomatic leaves, tetracytic and brachyparatetracytic stomata, peltate trichomes, epidermis with striated cuticle ornamentation, dorsiventral mesophyll with border acute, presence of druses, secretory structures, angular collenchyma, fibrous pericycle in the stem, intraxillary phloem, presence of oil bodies in all organs, and epicuticular waxes of the crust type and coiled rods were considered important anatomical markers for the recognition and correct identification of Camonea umbellata.
Edge‐minimum saturated k‐planar drawings
Authors: Chaplick Steven , Klute Fabian , Parada Irene , Rollin Jonathan , Ueckerdt Torsten
Published: March 2024

For a class of drawings of loopless (multi‐)graphs in the plane, a drawing is saturated when the addition of any edge to results in —this is analogous to saturated graphs in a graph class as introduced by Turán and Erdős, Hajnal, and Moon. We focus on ‐planar drawings, that is, graphs drawn in the plane where each edge is crossed at most times, and the classes of all ‐planar drawings obeying a number of restrictions, such as having no crossing incident edges, no pair of edges crossing more than once, or no edge crossing itself. While saturated ‐planar drawings are the focus of several prior works, tight bounds on how sparse these can be are not well understood. We establish a generic framework to determine the minimum number of edges among all ‐vertex saturated ‐planar drawings in many natural classes. For example, when incident crossings, multicrossings and selfcrossings are all allowed, the sparsest ‐vertex saturated ‐planar drawings have edges for any , while if all that is forbidden, the sparsest such drawings have edges for any .
The clinical relevance of novel biomarkers as outcome parameter in adults with phenylketonuria
Authors: van Wegberg A. M. J. , van der Weerd J. C. , Engelke U. F. H. , Coene K. L. M. , Jahja R. , Bakker S. J. L. , Huijbregts S. C. J. , Wevers R. A. , Heiner‐Fokkema M. R. , van Spronsen F. J.
Published: April 2024

Recent studies in PKU patients identified alternative biomarkers in blood using untargeted metabolomics. To test the added clinical value of these novel biomarkers, targeted metabolomics of 11 PKU biomarkers (phenylalanine, glutamyl‐phenylalanine, glutamyl‐glutamyl‐phenylalanine, N‐lactoyl‐phenylalanine, N‐acetyl‐phenylalanine, the dipeptides phenylalanyl‐phenylalanine and phenylalanyl‐leucine, phenylalanine–hexose conjugate, phenyllactate, phenylpyruvate, and phenylacetate) was performed in stored serum samples of the well‐defined PKU patient‐COBESO cohort and a healthy control group. Serum samples of 35 PKU adults and 20 healthy age‐ and sex‐matched controls were analyzed using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Group differences were tested using the Mann–Whitney U test. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed with these biomarkers as predictors of (neuro‐)cognitive functions working memory, sustained attention, inhibitory control, and mental health. Compared to healthy controls, phenylalanine, glutamyl‐phenylalanine, N‐lactoyl‐phenylalanine, N‐acetyl‐phenylalanine, phenylalanine–hexose conjugate, phenyllactate, phenylpyruvate, and phenylacetate were significant elevated in PKU adults (p < 0.001). The remaining three were below limit of detection in PKU and controls. Both phenylalanine and N‐lactoyl‐phenylalanine were associated with DSM‐VI Attention deficit/hyperactivity (R2 = 0.195, p = 0.039 and R2 = 0.335, p = 0.002, respectively) of the ASR questionnaire. In addition, N‐lactoyl‐phenylalanine showed significant associations with ASR DSM‐VI avoidant personality (R2 = 0.265, p = 0.010), internalizing (R2 = 0.192, p = 0.046) and externalizing problems (R2 = 0.217, p = 0.029) of the ASR questionnaire and multiple aspects of the MS2D and FI tests, reflecting working memory with R2 between 0.178 (p = 0.048) and 0.204 (p = 0.033). Even though the strength of the models was not considered strong, N‐lactoyl‐phenylalanine outperformed phenylalanine in its association with working memory and mental health outcomes.
Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Knee Articular Cartilage and Osteoarthritis Symptoms—A 12‐Month Follow‐Up Using T2 Relaxation Time and WOMAC Osteoarthritis Index
Authors: Lehtovirta Sami , Kemppainen Ahti , Haapea Marianne , Nevalainen Mika , Lammentausta Eveliina , Kyllönen Eero , Koivukangas Vesa , Lehenkari Petri , Karppinen Jaro , Casula Victor , Nieminen Miika T.
Published: April 2024

Background

Obesity is a significant risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA). The most effective treatment for morbid obesity is bariatric surgery.

Purpose

To study the effects of potential surgically induced weight loss on knee articular cartilage and OA symptoms of obese patients over a 12‐month follow‐up.

Study Type

Prospective longitudinal cohort study.

Subjects

45 obese patients (38 female, BMI = 42.3 ± 6.5 kg/m2) who underwent gastric bypass (intervention group), and 46 age‐matched conservative‐care controls (37 female, BMI = 39.8 ± 4.6 kg/m2).

Field Strength/Sequence

Multiecho spin echo sequence at 3 T.

Assessment

Knee cartilage T2 measurements and WOMAC Indices were measured presurgery and after 12 months. The intervention group was split into successful (≥20% total weight loss (TWL)) and unsuccessful (<20% TWL) weight loss groups. T2 and WOMAC indices were also measured in controls at baseline and after 12 months. Changes among the three groups were analyzed.

Statistical Tests

Analysis of variance (significance level 0.05).

Results

Twenty‐six (58%) intervention patients achieved ≥20% TWL. The <20% TWL group demonstrated significantly more T2 reduction in the deep lateral femur over 12 months compared with the ≥20% TWL group (−3.83 ± 8.18 msec vs. 2.47 ± 6.54 msec, respectively), whereas no significant differences were observed on the medial femoral compartment (P = 0.385, P = 0.551, and P = 0.511 for bulk, superficial and deep regions, respectively). Changes in WOMAC indices over 12 months were significantly greater in the ≥20% TWL group compared with controls. In the <20% TWL group, pain significantly improved over 12 months compared with controls, while stiffness and function changes were not statistically significant (P = 0.063 and P = 0.051, respectively).

Data Conclusion

Cartilage matrix, measured by T2, showed improvement on lateral femoral cartilage with <20% TWL compared with ≥20% TWL. Bariatric surgery provided significant improvements in knee symptoms with ≥20% TWL compared with conservative WL. This effect is also seen to some extent with <20% TWL compared with conservative WL.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 4
Prevalence, tropism, and activity of cutavirus in circulating blood lymphocytes, stool, and skin biopsy specimens of patients with cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma and parapsoriasis en plaques
Authors: Mohanraj Ushanandini , Väkevä Liisa , Ranki Annamari , Söderlund‐Venermo Maria
Published: March 2024

A significant association has been established between a newly emerging human parvovirus, cutavirus (CuV), and cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma/mycosis fungoides (CTCL/MF) and its precursor parapsoriasis en plaques (PP). CTCL is a heterogeneous group of skin malignancies of T cells, the cause of which remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the activity, spread, and cell tropism of the skin‐persistent CuV. CuV DNA was detected in both skin biopsies (6/20, 30%) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) (4/29, 13.8%) from 49 CTCL/MF or PP patients, while none from 33 patients with any other type of skin disease or healthy subjects harbored CuV DNA. CuV DNA persisted in the skin or PBMCs for up to 15 years, despite circulating CuV‐specific IgG. Spliced CuV mRNA was expressed in skin, indicating viral activity. Also, both of two available stool samples contained encapsidated CuV genomes, suggesting that the patients excrete infectious virus into the environment. Finally, CuV was observed to target circulating and skin‐resident CD4 + T cells and some skin keratinocytes and macrophages. This is especially intriguing as malignant T cells in CTCL develop from CD4 + T cells. Hence, CuV should be further investigated for the overall role it plays in the complex tumor microenvironment of CTCL/MF.
Disproportion of Corpus Callosum in Fetuses With Malformations of Cortical Development
Authors: Jiang Yu‐Ting , Zeng Xiao‐Jing , He Miao , Lei Ting , Xie Hong‐Ning
Published: April 2024

Objective

To evaluate corpus callosum (CC) size in fetuses with malformations of cortical development (MCD) and to explore the diagnostic value of three CC length (CCL) ratios in identifying cortical abnormalities.

Methods

This is a single‐center retrospective study in singleton fetuses at 20–37 weeks of gestation between April 2017 and August 2022. The midsagittal plane of the fetal brain was obtained and evaluated for the following variables: length, height, area of the corpus callosum, and relevant markers, including the ratios of corpus callosum length to internal cranial occipitofrontal dimension (CCL/ICOFD), corpus callosum length to femur length (CCL/FL), and corpus callosum length to cerebellar vermian diameter (CCL/VD).

Intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate measurement consistency. The accuracy of biometric measurements in prediction of MCD was assessed using the area under the receiver‐operating‐characteristics curves (AUC).

Results

Fetuses with MCD had a significantly decreased CCL, height (genu and splenium), and area as compared with those of normal fetuses (P < .05), but there was no significant difference in body height (P = .326).

The CCL/ICOFD, CCL/FL, and CCL/VD ratios were significantly decreased in fetuses with MCD when compared with controls (P < .05). The CCL/ICOFD ratio offered the highest predictive accuracy for MCD, yielding an AUC of 0.856 (95% CI: 0.774–0.938, P < .001), followed by CCL/FL ratio (AUC, 0.780 (95% CI: 0.657–0.904), P < .001), CCL/VD ratio (AUC, 0.677 (95% CI: 0.559–0.795), P < .01).

Conclusion

The corpus callosum biometric parameters in fetuses with MCD are reduced. The CCL/ICOFD ratio derived from sonographic measurements is considered a promising tool for the prenatal detection of cortical malformations. External validation of these findings and prospective studies are warranted.
How Does Ultrasound Global OMERACT–EULAR Synovitis Score (GLOESS) for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Activity Assessment Perform in Real‐Life?
Authors: de Andrade Nicole Pamplona Bueno , Brenol Claiton Viegas , da Silva Chakr Rafael Mendonça
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Global OMERACT–EULAR Synovitis Score (GLOESS) of bilateral second to fifth metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP 2–5) in evaluating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) activity in a real‐life setting.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included consecutive RA patients without hyperalgesia. Clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records. Evaluations were conducted on bilateral MCP 2–5 by two independent experts in musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS). Correlation between clinical and ultrasonographic parameters was analyzed, aiming to define a cutoff value for detecting disease activity.

Results

Sixty‐nine patients were included. The mean DAS28‐ESR was 4.3 (±1.4), and the median GLOESS was 7 (13). The correlation between GLOESS and DAS28 was moderate (r = .62; P < .05). A total GLOESS score of ≤3 and all joints with both GS and PD ≤1 showed good sensitivity and specificity for detecting disease activity (remission/low vs moderate/high, P = 0).

Conclusion

In a real‐life scenario, GLOESS for MCP 2–5 emerges as a valuable measure of RA activity. The optimal cutoff distinguishing remission/low from moderate/high disease activity was determined to be GLOESS ≤3, with all MCP joints exhibiting both GS and PD scores of ≤1.
Integrated Electro‐Optic Frequency Combs: Theory and Current Progress
Authors: Zhang Tao , Yin Ke , Zhang Chenxi , Miao Runlin , Jiang Tian
Published: April 2024

Optical frequency combs (OFCs) have evolved into one of the most active areas of photonics, underpinning advancements in both fundamental science and commercial contexts. Electro‐optic modulation for OFC generation offers excellent versatility, stability, and phase coherence. With the rapid progress in micro‐nano fabrication techniques, electro‐optic frequency combs (EOFCs) have been realized on many integrated platforms, including silicon on insulator (SOI), indium phosphide (InP), and lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI). These compact, low‐cost, and energy‐efficient EOFCs support a wide range of applications. In this study, we review the theory for the generation of integrated EOFCs, summarize the demonstrations on the main integrated platforms, present applications, and envision the development directions of integrated EOFCs in view of materials, devices, and applications.
What is the role of microbial biotechnology and genetic engineering in medicine?
Authors: Santos‐Beneit Fernando
Published: April 2024

Microbial products are essential for developing various therapeutic agents, including antibiotics, anticancer drugs, vaccines, and therapeutic enzymes. Genetic engineering techniques, functional genomics, and synthetic biology unlock previously uncharacterized natural products. This review highlights major advances in microbial biotechnology, focusing on gene‐based technologies for medical applications.
How green advertising and power structures affect competition between green and non‐green manufacturers?
Authors: Wu Sisi , Cao Jian , Xu Jiayang , Kumar Sanjay
Published: March 2024

Considering scenarios with and without green advertising, we compare the optimal solutions and performance of both green and non‐green manufacturers under three power structures. Green manufacturers who invest in green advertising experience enhanced output and profits, with the highest level of green advertising and profit improvement when they dominate market. In most cases, green advertising investment tends to decrease the output and profits of non‐green manufacturers. However, under specific circumstances, such as when non‐green manufacturers dominate market and the production cost of green products exceeds a certain threshold, investing in green advertising can unexpectedly stimulate demand for non‐green products.
Mit DNA malen
Authors: Lietard Jory
Published: March 2024

Fluoreszenzfarbstoffe machen sichtbar, wo zwei DNA‐Stränge nicht vollständig zusammenpassen und somit keine perfekte Helix bilden. Dabei gilt: Je stabiler die Helix, desto stärker die Fluoreszenz. Wird dies auf Farbstoffe angewendet, die im roten, grünen und blauen Teil des sichtbaren Lichtspektrums emittieren, lässt sich eine Skala erstellen, die DNA‐Sequenzen bestimmten Farben zuordnet.
Bilanz Roche 2023: Von Augenheilkunde bis Onkologie
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: March 2024

Der Schweizer Pharmakonzern Roche hat im vergangenen Jahr mehr umgesetzt als zuvor. Er investiert in die deutschen Standorte wie Mannheim und Penzberg.
Forschungstransfer mal anders
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: March 2024

Konferenzen und Workshops sind wichtig, heißt es überall; ohne Kontakte geht nichts. Tatsächlich kann manchmal eine einzelne Veranstaltung das ganze Leben verändern – so ging es zumindest der Chemikerin Haneen Daoud.
Im Videospiel geplant, per Knopfdruck gebaut
Authors: Hartlieb Matthias , Gurke Johannes
Published: March 2024

Kinder konstruieren am Computer Skulpturen, schauen sich an, wie diese im Anschluss 3‐D‐gedruckt werden und nehmen ihre Trophäen schließlich mit nach Hause – das passierte am Potsdamer Tag der Wissenschaften 2023. Der Versuch weckte spielerisch das Interesse für Naturwissenschaften.
Obliteration of portal venules contributes to portal hypertension in biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Shan Shan , Zhao Xinyan , Wood‐Trageser Michelle A , Hu Doudou , Liu Liwei , Qi Beining , Jian Jianbo , Wang Ping , Lv Wenjuan , Hu Chunhong
Published: March 2024

The effects of the obliteration of portal venules (OPV) in cirrhotic portal hypertension are poorly understood. To investigate its contribution to portal hypertension in biliary cirrhosis and its underlying mechanism, we evaluated OPV using two‐dimensional (2D) histopathology in liver explants from patients with biliary atresia (BA, n = 63), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC, n = 18), and hepatitis B‐related cirrhosis (Hep‐B‐cirrhosis, n = 35). Then, three‐dimensional (3D) OPV was measured by X‐ray phase‐contrast CT in two parallel models in rats following bile duct ligation (BDL) or carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) administration, representing biliary cirrhosis and post‐necrotic cirrhosis, respectively. The portal pressure was also measured in the two models. Finally, the effects of proliferative bile ducts on OPV were investigated. We found that OPV was significantly more frequent in patients with biliary cirrhosis, including BA (78.57 ± 16.45%) and PBC (60.00 ± 17.15%), than that in Hep‐B‐cirrhotic patients (29.43 ± 14.94%, p < 0.001). OPV occurred earlier, evidenced by the paired liver biopsy at a Kasai procedure (KP), and was irreversible even after a successful KP in the patients with BA. OPV was also significantly more frequent in the BDL models than in the CCl4 models, as shown by 2D and 3D quantitative analysis. Portal pressure was significantly higher in the BDL model than that in the CCl4 model. With the proliferation of bile ducts, portal venules were compressed and irreversibly occluded, contributing to the earlier and higher portal pressure in biliary cirrhosis. OPV, as a pre‐sinusoidal component, plays a key role in the pathogenesis of portal hypertension in biliary cirrhosis. The proliferated bile ducts and ductules gradually take up the ‘territory’ originally attributed to portal venules and compress the portal venules, which may lead to OPV in biliary cirrhosis. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Management of undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver: A Pediatric Surgical Oncology Research Collaborative study
Authors: Kastenberg Zachary J. , Short Scott S. , Riehle Kimberly J. , Utria Alan , Lautz Timothy B. , Ott Katherine C. , Murphy Andrew J. , Mansfield Sara , Lal Dave R. , Hallis Brian , Murphy Joseph T. , Roach Jonathan P. , Polites Stephanie F. , Beckhorn Catherine , Tracy Elisabeth T. , Fialkowski Elizabeth A. , Seemann Natashia M. , Bütter Andreana M. , Rich Barrie S. , Glick Richard D. , Bondoc Alex J. , Ofori‐Atta Blessing S. , Presson Angela P. , Chen Stephanie Y. , Zamora Abigail K. , Kim Eugene S. , Vasudevan Sanjeev , Rinehardt Hannah N. , Malek Marcus M. , Lapidus‐Krol Eveline , Putra Juan , Superina Riccardo A. , Langham Max R. , Meyers Rebecka L. , Tiao Greg , Dasgupta Roshni , Baertschiger Reto
Published: April 2024

Background

Undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver (UESL) is a rare tumor for which there are few evidence‐based guidelines. The aim of this study was to define current management strategies and outcomes for these patients using a multi‐institutional dataset curated by the Pediatric Surgical Oncology Research Collaborative.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively for patients with UESL treated across 17 children's hospitals in North America from 1989 to 2019. Factors analyzed included patient and tumor characteristics, PRETEXT group, operative details, and neoadjuvant/adjuvant regimens. Event‐free and overall survival (EFS, OS) were the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients were identified with a median age of 9.9 years [interquartile range [IQR): 7–12]. Twenty‐seven patients underwent resection at diagnosis, and 47 patients underwent delayed resection, including eight liver transplants. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy led to a median change in maximum tumor diameter of 1.6 cm [IQR: 0.0–4.4] and greater than 90% tumor necrosis in 79% of the patients undergoing delayed resection. R0 resections were accomplished in 63 patients (81%). Univariate analysis found that metastatic disease impacted OS, and completeness of resection impacted both EFS and OS, while multivariate analysis revealed that R0 resection was associated with decreased expected hazards of experiencing an event [hazard ratio (HR): 0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.04–0.6]. At a median follow‐up of 4 years [IQR: 2–8], the EFS was 70.0% [95% CI: 60%–82%] and OS was 83% [95% CI: 75%–93%].

Conclusion

Complete resection is associated with improved survival for patients with UESL. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy causes minimal radiographic response, but significant tumor necrosis.
Preparation of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/graphene oxide (GO) polymeric composites for the selective removal of lead ions (Pb(II)) in water
Authors: Mokoena Lesia Sydney , Mofokeng Julia Puseletso
Published: April 2024

Lead pollution in water has risen globally, due to industrialization and globalization. In this study, this problem was addressed by preparing poly (lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/graphene oxide (GO) composites and addressing their effectiveness in absorbing water, and adsorbing Pb(II) ions in water. In water absorption studies, increasing the GO content to above 1 wt.% (3 and 5 wt.%) resulted in the degradation of the composites. All blends, and composites with 1 wt.% GO loading showed good water intake properties, with the composites having the highest. Pb (II) ion intake analyses showed that all the materials adsorb Pb(II) ions significantly in 24 h contact time, but the composites with 1 wt.% GO loadings adsorbed the greatest (81.3%–86.5%). For the effect of pH on adsorption, the adsorption of Pb(II) ions increased with an increase in pH from acidic to basic. This was attributed to the abundance of hydroxyl ions in basic media, that will not compete with Pb(II) ions for adsorption sites. Conclusions were that the 49.5/49.5/1 w/w PLA/PHBV/GO composite was the most optimal adsorbent of Pb(II). This composite could be used in industrial water purification processes like membranes, to remove lead ions from water while conserving the environment.

Highlights

Melt mixed PLA/PHBV/GO composites for removing lead ions from water.

1 wt.% GO contents in the composites sufficiently absorbed water.

3 and 5 wt.% GO contents resulted in the hydrolytic degradation of composites.

Contact time is directly proportional to the degree of lead ion adsorption.

Basic pH media resulted in the optimal adsorption of lead ions from water.
Recent advances in green cationic polymerization
Authors: Zhu Yan , Yu Zhaopeng , Liu Ruofan , Jin Yusun , Shi Qisong , Wu Yibo
Published: March 2024

Traditional living/controlled cationic polymerization provides a simple synthetic route for the preparation of various polymers with set molecular weight, narrow molecular weight distribution, and clear structure. Nowadays, under the requirements of sustainable development, it is very important to explore the green chemical technology in depth. This review offers an overview of initiation systems, reaction media, polymerization techniques, and monomers, with the aim of summarizing environmentally friendly methods utilized in the field of cationic polymerization over the past 15 years. It covers a variety of directions from traditional initiation systems to green initiators, from corrosive solvents to environmentally friendly solvents, from drop initiation to external stimulation initiation, from petroleum fractionated monomers to bio‐based monomers. These methods and Techniques aim to develop advanced high‐quality polymer products using cationic polymerization, and achieving efficient energy savings and reducing emissions. The ongoing exploration of green‐controlled cationic polymerization holds promise for opening up new avenues and novel technology for high‐performance polyolefin materials.
Topographic Drivers of Permafrost Organic Carbon Accumulation on the Northern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Mu Mei , Mu Cuicui , Liu Hebin , Qiao Yuan , Zhu Yongji , Jia Yunjie , Fan Chengyan , Zhang Guofei , Peng Xiaoqing
Published: April 2024

Large amounts of soil organic carbon (SOC) have accumulated over thousands of years in the northern permafrost regions. However, the SOC accumulation rates and the effects of topography, vegetation, and soil properties on SOC storage remain poorly constrained, leading to large uncertainties in the estimation of SOC storage and its response to warming. Here, we examined SOC stocks, densities, and accumulation rates using field sampling and radiometric dating in areas with different topographic parameters on the northern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Results show that SOC density and stock increases with elevation on south‐facing slopes but decreases with elevation on north‐facing slopes. The carbon accumulation rates in the upper 6 m soil are highest (16.32 g C m−2 year−1) in the north‐facing alpine wet meadow and lowest (1.07 g C m−2 year−1) in the south‐facing alpine steppe. Elevation‐, slope‐, and slope aspect‐induced variations in soil properties and vegetation type are the main factors controlling the spatial SOC distribution. These results imply that the topography strongly affects the spatial heterogeneity of SOC in mountainous permafrost regions. Overall, our findings highlight that topographic factors should be further integrated into carbon models of carbon responses to climate change in permafrost‐affected soils.
Longitudinal tracking of intrabreath respiratory impedance in preschool children
Authors: Wong Matthew D. , Blake Tamara L. , Zahir Syeda F. , Suresh Sadasivam , Hantos Zoltán , Grimwood Keith , Lambert Stephen B. , Ware Robert S. , Sly Peter D.
Published: April 2024

Background

Longitudinal measurements of intrabreath respiratory impedance (Zrs) in preschool‐aged children may be able to distinguish abnormal lung function trajectories in children with a history of wheezing compared to healthy ones.

Methods

Children from a prospective, longitudinal community‐based cohort performed annual intrabreath oscillometry (IB‐OSC) measurements from age 3‐ to 7‐years. IB‐OSC was performed using a single 10 Hz sinusoid while clinically asymptomatic. Linear mixed‐effects models were developed to explore the effects of wheezing phenotypes, growth, and sex on seven IB‐OSC outcome variables over time: resistance at end‐expiration (ReE), resistance at end‐inspiration (ReI), the tidal change in resistance (∆R=ReE‐ReI), reactance at end‐expiration (XeE), reactance at end‐inspiration (XeI), the tidal change in reactance (∆X=XeE‐XeI), and ∆X normalized by tidal volume (∆X/VT).

Results

Eighty‐five children produced 374 acceptable IB‐OSC measurements. Subjects were classified into one of three wheeze groups: never (n = 36), transient (n = 34), or persistent (n = 15). After adjusting for height, children with persistent wheezing, compared to those who never wheezed, had +0.814 hPa s L−1ReE (95% confidence interval [CI] +0.178 to +1.451,p = 0.015), −0.792 hPa s L−1XeE (95% CI −1.203 to −0.381,p = 0.003), −0.538 hPa s L−1∆X (95% CI −0.834 to −0.242,p = 0.007) and −1.672 hPa s L−2∆X/VT(95% CI −2.567 to −0.777,p < 0.001). Increasing height had a significant effect on all IB‐OSC resistance and reactance variables when adjusted for the effect of preschool wheezing.

Conclusions

IB‐OSC is feasible for tracking lung function growth in preschool‐aged children and may allow abnormal lung function to be identified early in asymptomatic preschoolers with a history of persistent wheezing.
Fraxetin pretreatment alleviates cisplatin‐induced kidney injury by antagonizing autophagy and apoptosis via mTORC1 activation
Authors: Yuan Ziwei , Yang Xuejia , Hu Zujian , Gao Yuanyuan , Wang Mengsi , Xie Lili , Zhu Hengyue , Chen Chaosheng , Lu Hong , Bai Yongheng
Published: April 2024

Cisplatin‐induced kidney injury (CKI) is a common complication of chemotherapy. Fraxetin, derived from Fraxinus bungeana A. DC. bark, has antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐fibrotic effects. This study aims to investigate fraxetin's effects on CKI and its underlying mechanism in vivo and in vitro. Tubular epithelial cells (TECs) and mice were exposed to cisplatin with and without fraxetin preconditioning assess fraxetin's role in CKI. TECs autophagy was observed using transmission electron microscopy. Apoptosis levels in animal tissues were measured using TUNEL staining. The protective mechanism of fraxetin was explored through pharmacological and genetic regulation of mTORC1. Molecular docking was used to identify potential binding sites between fraxetin and mTORC1. The results indicated that fraxetin pretreatment reduced cisplatin‐induced kidney injury in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent way. Fraxetin also decreased autophagy in TECs, as observed through electron microscopy. Tissue staining confirmed that fraxetin pretreatment significantly reduced cisplatin‐induced apoptosis. Inhibition of mTORC1 using rapamycin or siRNA reversed the protective effects of fraxetin on apoptosis and autophagy in cisplatin‐treated TECs, while activation of mTORC1 enhanced fraxetin's protective effect. Molecular docking analysis revealed that fraxetin can bind to HEAT‐repeats binding site on mTORC1 protein. In  summary, fraxetin pretreatment alleviates CKI by antagonizing autophagy and apoptosis via mTORC1 activation. This provides evidence for the potential therapeutic application of fraxetin in CKI.
Multilevel Leapfrogging Initialization Strategy for Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Ni Xiao‐Hui , Cai Bin‐Bin , Liu Hai‐Ling , Qin Su‐Juan , Gao Fei , Wen Qiao‐Yan
Published: March 2024

Recently, Zhou et al. have proposed an Interpolation‐based (INTERP) strategy to generate the initial parameters for Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA). INTERP guesses the initial parameters at level by applying interpolation to the optimized parameters at level , achieving better performance than random initialization (RI). Nevertheless, INTERP consumes extensive costs for deep QAOA because it necessitates optimization at each level depth. To address it, a Multilevel Leapfrogging Interpolation (MLI) strategy is proposed. MLI produces initial parameters from level to () at level , omitting the optimization rounds from level to . MLI executes optimization at few levels rather than each level, and this operation is called Multilevel Leapfrogging optimization (M‐Leap). The performance of MLI is investigated on the Maxcut problem. The simulation results demonstrate MLI achieves the same quasi‐optima as INTERP while consuming 1/2 of costs required by INTERP. Besides, for MLI, where there is no RI except for level 1, the greedy‐MLI strategy is presented. The simulation results suggest greedy‐MLI has better stability than INTERP and MLI beyond obtaining the quasi‐optima. According to the efficiency of finding the quasi‐optima, the idea of M‐Leap might be extended to other training tasks, especially those requiring numerous optimizations.
Characterizing the effects of morphological microstructures and hydropeaks on fish stranding in rivers
Authors: Insulaire Flora , Lamouroux Nicolas , Barillier Agnès , Paillex Amael , Capra Hervé , Cattaneo Franck , Gouraud Véronique
Published: April 2024

Fish stranding in rivers, due to rapid shoreline dewatering, often occurs during the down‐ramping phase of hydropeaks, which enables peak energy production. Multiple hydropeaking characteristics and river morphology influence stranding, but little is known about the effects of riverbed microstructures. Our goal was to identify how the combination of hydropeaking characteristics and the occurrence of morphological microstructures (e.g., puddles and scour pools) influences fish stranding. For this purpose, we used an extensive dataset of fish stranding observations collected over 3 years in spring at 48 sites along a 50 km‐long reach of the Ain River, France. We aimed (1) to characterize stranding events and their associated fish assemblages and (2) to identify the spatial and temporal determinants of stranding. The occurrence of morphological microstructures was the main factor explaining fish stranding. Scour pools had a strong impact, followed by scour puddles, humid zones, and alluvial puddles. Then, hydropeaking characteristics interacted with morphology and modulated the intensity of stranding. Low flow ranges (low peak flow and low base flow) occurring after periods without hydropeaks induced ‘salmonid fry’ stranding events and ‘super‐stranding’ events (massive stranding of many taxa). Other flow ranges induced ‘regular cyprinid fry’ stranding events. Salmonids were particularly subject to stranding at the beginning of the sampling period. Recommendations are (1) to act in priority on sites where stranding is most likely, by morphological operations or by installing attractive structures in the perennial area and (2) to maintain attractive, perennial habitats in the low flow range of hydropeaks, for example, by increasing base flow.
A Case of Rowell Syndrome after a Herpes Simplex Infection and Prolonged Sun Exposure
Authors: Palacio Ariana , Cebrian Karla Medrano , Majores Michael , Uerlich Manfred , Bierhoff Erhard , Bonness Sonja , Reinhold Uwe
Published: April 2024

Rowell Syndrome is a rare entity combining erythema exudativum multiforme (EEM) and lupus erythematosus (LE). Zeitouni et al. redefined Rowell Syndrome’s diagnostic criteria. Major criteria include: (1) LE (systemic, discoid or subacute cutaneous), (2) EEM-like skin lesions and (3) speckled pattern of antinuclear antibodies. Minor criteria comprise: (1) chilblains, (2) positive anti-SSA/Ro or anti-SSB/La antibodies and (3) positive rheumatoid factor. The diagnosis is achieved when all major criteria and at least one minor criterion are present. Prognosis and treatment regimens are those of EEM and LE, with reported good response to oral cortisone, azathioprine, cyclosporine, dapsone, antimalarials and methotrexate. We present a case of Rowell Syndrome in a young adult after a herpes simplex type 1 infection and unprotected sun exposure, with good response to both topical corticosteroids and calcineurin-inhibitors.
Topical Gabapentin and its Relation to Cutaneous Innervation in Symptomatic Lymphocytic Primary Cicatricial Alopecia
Authors: Bohjanen Sara , McAdams Brian D. , Mead Nasia , Loavenbruck Adam , Wilcox George L. , Paiewonsky Briana , Shaik Javed , Hordinsky Maria K.
Published: April 2024

In this pilot study, participants with symptomatic lymphocytic primary cicatricial alopecia applied 6% topical gabapentin solution twice daily to affected areas for 12 weeks. There was a significant reduction in symptoms, but no pronounced effect on nerve fibre density or neuropeptide expression.