bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing evolutionary anthropology in local ecosystems
Authors: Palkovitz Rachel E. , Lawler Richard R.
Published: December 2023

The traditional regional focus of evolutionary anthropology—typically defined as places where hominin fossils, nonhuman primates, and non‐western populations reside—forms the basis of much evolutionary anthropological research. Using the highly biodiverse temperate region of Appalachia as an example, we suggest that evolutionary anthropologists have much to gain by stepping outside of this traditional geographic area. Being purposely provocative, we argue that evolutionary anthropologists might also benefit from conducting research in Appalachia and other temperate ecosystems. We briefly discuss multiple areas of study—including studies of seed dispersal, functional redundancy, convergent evolution, human behavioral ecology, and conservation—and how they can be considered within the purview of integrative and evolutionary anthropology. We also highlight broader impacts to higher education that evolutionary anthropologists can help promote by working in local ecosystems.
The effect of Medicaid expansion on the take‐up of disability benefits by race and ethnicity
Authors: Staiger Becky , Helfer Madeline , Van Parys Jessica
Published: December 2023

Public disability programs provide financial support to 12 million working‐age individuals per year, though not all eligible individuals take up these programs. Mixed evidence exists regarding the impact of Medicaid eligibility expansion on program take‐up, and even less is known about the relationship between Medicaid expansion and racial and ethnic disparities in take‐up. Using 2009–2020 Current Population Survey data, we compare changes in Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) take‐up among respondents with disabilities living in Medicaid expansion states to respondents with disabilities living in non‐expansion states, before and after Medicaid expansion. We further explore heterogeneity by race/ethnicity. We find that Medicaid expansion reduced SSI take‐up by 10% overall, particularly among White and Hispanic respondents (10% and 21%, respectively). Medicaid expansion increased SSDI take‐up by 8% overall, particularly among White and Black respondents (9% and 11%, respectively). Moreover, we find that Medicaid expansion reduced the probability that respondents with disabilities had employer‐sponsored health insurance by approximately 8%, suggesting that expansion may have reduced job‐lock among the SSDI‐eligible, contributing to the observed increase in SSDI take‐up.
PRMT5 participates in B cell overactivation in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) through RSAD2‐mediated NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Zhu Hong , Zheng Jian , Zhou Yan , Wu Tong , Zhu Tiantian
Published: December 2023

Objective

There are new evidences that protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) is widely involved in the progression of various diseases, but its effect is unclear on Primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS). The main purpose of this study is to explore the regulatory effect of PRMT5 on pSS and its potential mechanisms.

Methods

CD40L treated CD19 + B cells to construct a cell model of pSS. CCK‐8 assay and Annexin V‐FITC/PI kits were used to measure cell proliferation and apoptosis. ELISA assay was used to determine the contents of IL‐6 and TNF‐α in CD19 + B cells. And commercial kits were used to detect the levels of immunoglobins (IgG, IgM, and IgA) in CD40L‐treated CD19 + B cells. And successfully constructed a pSS mouse model.

Results

The results revealed an increase in the expression of PRMT5 in CD19 + B cells from patients with pSS. After CD40L treatment, the knockdown of PRMT5 prominently decreased cell viability, the production level of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM, and IgA), and the content of IL‐10, increased the content of IL‐6 and IL‐8, and promoted the apoptosis of pSS CD19 + B cells. Mechanistically, PRMT5 negatively regulated the RSAD2 and nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB) signaling pathway. Furthermore, overexpression of RSAD2 and p65 significantly rescued the effect of PRMT5 knockdown on proliferation, immunoglobin production and secreting cytokines in CD40L‐treated CD19 + B cells. More importantly, inhibition of PRMT5 significantly inhibited the symptoms of pSS mice.

Conclusions

Low‐expression of PRMT5 through inactivation of RSAD2/NF‐κB signalling pathway alleviates the hyperactivity of B cells, which may provide theoretical basis and potential therapeutic targets for clinical treatment of pSS.
Increasing customer purchases at farmers markets using point‐of‐sale scanner data
Authors: Rigotti Luca , LeRoux Matthew N. , Schmit Todd M.
Published: December 2023

Until recently, lack of customer transaction data at farmers markets prevented strategic vendor decision making to increase customer purchases. We collect point‐of‐sale data on over 26,000 transactions in 2021 from 10 livestock farms at 22 farmers markets in New York State. We find noncash payment types, earlier sale hours, product differentiation, and lower customer densities are associated with higher customer transaction size, as is the number of product groups (species) and item variety offered by vendors. Marginal expenditure effects on over 30 meat product categories across seven livestock species provide valuable information on alternative product offerings and pricing.
ROS‐mediated anticancer effects of EGFR‐targeted nanoceria
Authors: Johnson Kochurani K. , Koshy Pramod , Kopecky Chantal , Devadason Michelle , Biazik Joanna , Zheng Xiaoran , Jiang Yue , Wang Xiaochun , Liu Yiling , Holst Jeff , Yang Jia‐Lin , Kilian Kristopher A. , Sorrell Charles C.
Published: December 2023

The therapeutic effectiveness of anticancer drugs, including nanomedicines, can be enhanced with active receptor‐targeting strategies. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an important cancer biomarker, constitutively expressed in sarcoma patients of different histological types. The present work reports materials and in vitro biomedical analyses of silanized (passive delivery) and/or EGF‐functionalized (active delivery) ceria nanorods exhibiting highly defective catalytically active surfaces. The EGFR‐targeting efficiency of nanoceria was confirmed by receptor‐binding studies. Increased cytotoxicity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were observed for EGF‐functionalized nanoceria owing to enhanced cellular uptake by HT‐1080 fibrosarcoma cells. The uptake was confirmed by TEM and confocal microscopy. Silanized nanoceria demonstrated negligible/minimal cytotoxicity toward healthy MRC‐5 cells at 24 and 48 h, whereas this was significant at 72 h owing to a nanoceria accumulation effect. In contrast, considerable cytotoxicity toward the cancer cells was exhibited at all three times points. The ROS generation and associated cytotoxicity were moderated by the equilibrium between catalysis by ceria, generation of cell debris, and blockage of active sites. EGFR‐targeting is shown to enhance the uptake levels of nanoceria by cancer cells, subsequently enhancing the overall anticancer activity and therapeutic performance of ceria.
Corneal and Coronary Calcification in Maintenance Hemodialysis: The Face Is No Index to the Heart
Authors: Pessoa Maria Beatriz C. N. , Santo Ruth Miyuki , de Deus Aline A. , Duque Eduardo J , Crispilho Shirley F. , Jorgetti Vanda , Dalboni Maria Aparecida , Rochitte Carlos Eduardo , Moyses Rosa M. A. , Elias Rosilene M.
Published: December 2023

Although the eyes are the main site of metastatic calcification in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), corneal and conjunctival calcification (CCC) is poorly evaluated in this population. Whether CCC correlates with coronary artery calcification remains unknown since studies so far have relied on methods with low sensitivity. Our objective was to test the relationship between CCC and coronary calcification based on tomography. This was a cross‐sectional study that included patients on maintenance dialysis. Clinical, demographic, and biochemical data (calcium, phosphorus, parathormone, alkaline phosphatase, and 25(OH)‐vitamin D) were recorded. Hyperparathyroidism was defined as parathyroid hormone (PTH) > 300 pg/mL. CCC was evaluated by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS‐OCT), and coronary calcium scores (Agatston method) were assessed by computed tomography. We compared no/mild with moderate/severe CCC. Twenty‐nine patients were included (49.6 ± 15.0 years, 62.1% female, on hemodialysis for 5.7 [2.7–9.4] years, 17.2% with diabetes mellitus, 75.9% with hyperparathyroidism). CCC was found in 82.7% of patients, with median scores of 9 (3, 14.5), ranging from 0 to 16. CCC was classified as absent/mild, moderate, and severe in 27.6%, 20.7%, and 51.7%, respectively. Coronary calcification was found in 44.8% of patients, with median scores of 11 (0, 464), varying from 0 and 6456. We found no significant correlation between coronary calcium scores and CCC (r = 0.203, p = 0.282). Hyperphosphatemia was more frequent in patients with moderate/severe CCC than in those with absent/mild CCC. We concluded that CCC was frequent in patients with CKD on dialysis and did not correlate with coronary calcium scores. Hyperphosphatemia appears to contribute to CCC. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Global epidemiological features and impact of osteosarcopenia: A comprehensive meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Chen Shanping , Xu Xiao , Gong Huping , Chen Ruzhao , Guan Lijuan , Yan Xuedan , Zhou Lihua , Yang Yongxue , Wang Jiang , Zhou Jianghua , Zou Chuan , Huang Pan
Published: December 2023

Osteosarcopenia is defined as the concurrent occurrence of osteopenia/osteoporosis and sarcopenia. The aim of the current study was to perform a systematic review with meta‐analysis to determine the global prevalence, risk factors and clinical outcomes of osteosarcopenia. This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022351229). PubMed, Cochrane, Medline and Embase were searched from inception to February 2023 to retrieve eligible observational population‐based studies. Pooled osteosarcopenia prevalence was calculated with 95% confidence interval (CI), and subgroup analyses were performed. The risk factor of osteosarcopenia and its association with clinical outcomes were expressed as odds ratio (OR) and hazard ratio (HR), respectively. Heterogeneity was estimated using the I2 test. Study quality was assessed using validated instruments matched to study designs. The search identified 55 158 studies, and 66 studies (64 404 participants, mean age from 46.6 to 93 years) were analysed in the final analysis, including 48 cross‐sectional studies, 17 cohort studies and 1 case–control study. Overall, the pooled prevalence of osteosarcopenia was 18.5% (95% CI: 16.7–20.3, I2 = 98.7%), including 15.3% (95% CI: 13.2–17.4, I2 = 97.6%) in men and 19.4% (95% CI: 16.9–21.9, I2 = 98.5%) in women. The prevalence of osteosarcopenia diagnosed using sarcopenia plus osteopenia/osteoporosis was 20.7% (95% CI: 17.1–24.4, I2 = 98.55%), and the prevalence of using sarcopenia plus osteoporosis was 16.1% (95% CI: 13.3–18.9, I2 = 98.0%). The global osteosarcopenia prevalence varied in different regions with 22.9% in Oceania, 21.6% in Asia, 20.8% in South America, 15.7% in North America and 10.9% in Europe. A statistically significant difference was found in the subgroups of the study population between the hospital (24.7%) and community (12.9%) (P = 0.001). Frailty (OR = 4.72, 95% CI: 2.71–8.23, I2 = 61.1%), malnutrition (OR = 2.35, 95% CI: 1.62–3.40, I2 = 50.0%), female sex (OR = 5.07, 95% CI: 2.96–8.69, I2 = 73.0%) and higher age (OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.06–1.15, I2==86.0%) were significantly associated with a higher risk for osteosarcopenia. Meta‐analysis of cohort studies showed that osteosarcopenia significantly increased the risk of fall (HR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.20–1.97; I2 = 1.0%, three studies), fracture (HR = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.61–2.81; I2 = 67.8%, seven studies) and mortality (HR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.34–2.28; I2 = 0.0%, five studies). Despite the heterogeneity arising from varied definitions and criteria, our findings highlight a significant global prevalence of osteosarcopenia and its negative impact on clinical health. Standardizing diagnostic criteria for osteosarcopenia would be advantageous in the future, and early detection and management should be emphasized in this patient population.
Semi‐automated, high‐content imaging of drug transporter knockout sea urchin (Lytechinus pictus) embryos
Authors: Tjeerdema Evan , Lee Yoon , Metry Rachel , Hamdoun Amro
Published: December 2023

A defining feature of sea urchins is their extreme fecundity. Urchins produce millions of transparent, synchronously developing embryos, ideal for spatial and temporal analysis of development. This biological feature has been effectively utilized for ensemble measurement of biochemical changes. However, it has been underutilized in imaging studies, where single embryo measurements are used. Here we present an example of how stable genetics and high content imaging, along with machine learning‐based image analysis, can be used to exploit the fecundity and synchrony of sea urchins in imaging‐based drug screens. Building upon our recently created sea urchin ABCB1 knockout line, we developed a high‐throughput assay to probe the role of this drug transporter in embryos. We used high content imaging to compare accumulation and toxicity of canonical substrates and inhibitors of the transporter, including fluorescent molecules and antimitotic cancer drugs, in homozygous knockout and wildtype embryos. To measure responses from the resulting image data, we used a nested convolutional neural network, which rapidly classified embryos according to fluorescence or cell division. This approach identified sea urchin embryos with 99.8% accuracy and determined two‐cell and aberrant embryos with 96.3% and 89.1% accuracy, respectively. The results revealed that ABCB1 knockout embryos accumulated the transporter substrate calcein 3.09 times faster than wildtypes. Similarly, knockouts were 4.71 and 3.07 times more sensitive to the mitotic poisons vinblastine and taxol. This study paves the way for large scale pharmacological screens in the sea urchin embryo.
Ultrafast Dynamic Contrast‐Enhanced MRI of the Breast: From Theory to Practice
Authors: Kataoka Masako , Honda Maya , Sagawa Hajime , Ohashi Akane , Sakaguchi Rena , Hashimoto Hina , Iima Mami , Takada Masahiro , Nakamoto Yuji
Published: December 2023

The development of ultrafast dynamic contrast‐enhanced (UF‐DCE) MRI has occurred in tandem with fast MRI scan techniques, particularly view‐sharing and compressed sensing. Understanding the strengths of each technique and optimizing the relevant parameters are essential to their implementation. UF‐DCE MRI has now shifted from research protocols to becoming a part of clinical scan protocols for breast cancer. UF‐DCE MRI is expected to compensate for the low specificity of abbreviated MRI by adding kinetic information from the upslope of the time‐intensity curve. Because kinetic information from UF‐DCE MRI is obtained from the shape and timing of the initial upslope, various new kinetic parameters have been proposed. These parameters may be associated with receptor status or prognostic markers for breast cancer. In addition to the diagnosis of malignant lesions, more emphasis has been placed on predicting and evaluating treatment response because hyper‐vascularity is linked to the aggressiveness of breast cancers. In clinical practice, it is important to note that breast lesion images obtained from UF‐DCE MRI are slightly different from those obtained by conventional DCE MRI in terms of morphology. A major benefit of using UF‐DCE MRI is avoidance of the marked or moderate background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) that can obscure the target enhancing lesions. BPE is less prominent in the earlier phases of UF‐DCE MRI, which offers better lesion‐to‐noise contrast. The excellent contrast of early‐enhancing vessels provides a key to understanding the detailed pathological structure of tumor‐associated vessels. UF‐DCE MRI is normally accompanied by a large volume of image data for which automated/artificial intelligence‐based processing is expected to be useful. In this review, both the theoretical and practical aspects of UF‐DCE MRI are summarized.

Evidence Level

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Human papillomavirus testing using HPV APTIMA® assay and an external cellularity control in self‐collected samples
Authors: Pasquier Christophe , Raymond Stéphanie , Duchanois Delphine , Sauné Karine , Oliveira‐Mendes Kevin , Vayssiere Christophe , Izopet Jacques
Published: December 2023

In cervical cancer screening programs, the detection of high‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) is now widely implemented on physician‐collected samples and has expanded to include self‐collected samples. The use of a cellularity control (CC) is needed to reduce false‐negative HPV results. An external mRNA CC for the HPV APTIMA® assay was assessed for its analytical performance and the results were compared with both cervix cytobrush samples taken by physicians and self‐collected vaginal samples from 148 women. The performance of the CC was adjusted to control for the presence of cellular mRNA in the ThinPrep® and Multitest® transport media. This CC is user‐friendly but implies to perform two independent assays on PANTHER® automate. Self‐collected vaginal sampling gives a lower median CC results (13.2 vs. 16.9 min) but a higher risk of negative CC results (3.3 vs. 0%). The usefulness of the CC for the HR‐HPV assay may be optimized by the definition of a threshold for a minimum cell number to be tested to increase confidence in HPV‐negative results. The systematic use of an RNA CC increases confidence for HPV RNA assays on self‐collected vaginal samples.
The importance of terrestrial carbon sequestration during Termination 1
Authors: Jacobson GEORGE L. , Norton STEPHEN A. , Maasch KIRK A.
Published: December 2023

During the transition from the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) to the Holocene, terrestrial carbon sequestration occurred primarily in boreal forests and forest soils largely on landscapes that had been covered by ice sheets. Major processes operating during this period included radiative warming from rising concentrations of atmospheric CO2 (degassing oceans and oxidation of permafrost); increased seasonal warming associated with axial precession; melting of alpine glaciers and ice sheets; exposure of new land surfaces; and sequestration of carbon in expanding terrestrial vegetation and soils. We examine mechanisms of warming that melted glacial ice; temporal and spatial availability of newly exposed landscapes; rates at which plant colonization and soil development occurred; estimates of terrestrial carbon sequestration; and how those processes interacted with one another. Data from the West Antarctic Ice Sheet Divide ice core show that from 18 to 11 cal ka bp the concentration of atmospheric CO2 rose by ≈80 ppmv (≈170 Gt C); published estimates of net terrestrial carbon sequestration (following photosynthesis) are considerably higher (450–1250 Gt C). Thus, accumulation of carbon in terrestrial vegetation and soils played an important role in modulating atmospheric CO2 and, indirectly, Earth's climate during Termination 1, and possibly during earlier Quaternary ice ages.
Outcomes of incidental versus non‐incidental T2 gallbladder cancer: A single‐institute experience of 425 cases
Authors: Patkar Shraddha , Kunte Aditya , Chaudhari Vikram , Goel Mahesh
Published: December 2023

Background

Up to 60% of incidentally detected gallbladder cancers (GBCs) have a primary stage of pathologic T2 stage (pT2), defined by invasion of the peri‐adventitial tissue by the tumour, a plane breached during a simple cholecystectomy. This study assesses the impact of incidental detection of pT2 GBCs on survival outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of pT2 GBCs undergoing a curative resection was performed. Patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy before an upfront radical resection were excluded. Outcomes of patients undergoing upfront surgery (uGBC) and incidentally detected tumours (iGBC) were compared.

Results

From a total of 1356 patients, 425 patients with pT2 GBCs were included. Of these, 118 (27.7%) and 307 (72.23%) patients were in the uGBC and iGBC groups, respectively. Patients with iGBC had significantly higher locoregional, (62 [19.8%] vs. 11 [9.3%]; p = 0.009), liver, (36 [11.5%] vs. 4 [3.4%]; p = 0.01), and abdominal wall recurrences (23 [7.4%] vs. 1 [0.8%]; p = 0.009). Five‐year disease free survival rates were 68.7% and 49.2% in the uGBC and iGBC groups, respectively (p = 0.013). Five‐year overall survival rates were 71.7% and 64.6% in the uGBC and iGBC groups, respectively (p = 0.317).

Conclusions

Incidentally detected pT2 GBCs have significantly poorer outcomes compared to similarly staged patients undergoing an upfront radical cholecystectomy.
Sun protection and sun exposure habits among tattooed individuals
Authors: Kluger Nicolas , Shourick Jason , Seité Sophie , Taieb Charles
Published: December 2023

Background

Little is known about sun‐exposure and sun‐protection behaviors among tattooed individuals.

Objectives

This study sought to investigate the sun‐exposure and sun‐protective habits among tattooed individuals.

Methods

Population‐based study using a representative sample of the general population aged ≥18 years from four countries (Brazil, China, Russia and United‐States). All participants were asked to fill in a digital structured questionnaire. We inquired about socio‐demographics, self‐evaluation of their skin phototype (from I to VI), tattoo(s) and sun‐exposure and sun‐protection habits.

Results

A total of 9031 adult participants responded to the questionnaire of whom 1682 (18.6%) had ≥ 1 tattoo(s). The prevalence of tattoos was significantly higher among individuals with lighter skin tone (phototype I to III, 20.2%) compared to those with darker one (phototype IV to VI, 13.9%, p<0.001). Almost 20% percent of the tattooed individuals acknowledged heavy lifestyle sun‐exposure compared to 11% of those without tattoos (p<0.001). Multinomial analyses showed that Brazilians and those having ≥ 1 tattoo were more likely to have intermediate and intense lifestyle sun‐exposure. Tattooed individuals were more likely to report that they used regular or occasional sun‐protection methods than non‐tattooed individuals (p < 0.001 and 0.016 respectively). Multinomial analyses for regular sun‐protection methods showed significant association with respondents from Brazil and those having one tattoo, but not more than one tattoo. Limitations include mainly that this is a questionnaire‐based study and and we lack of questions about sunburns and skin cancers.

Conclusions

This large population‐based study shows that tattooed individuals do have a heavily sun‐exposed lifestyle but, at the same time, display sun‐protection habits.
High Stable Mechanoluminescence from TbBO3 GCs for Stress Safety Monitoring
Authors: Xiao Jianqiang , Cai Yiyu , Song Yingdan , Tang Haitao , Zhang Pengfei , Peng Qingpeng , Xu Xuhui , Liu Zhichao , Zhao Lei
Published: December 2023

Mechanoluminescence (ML) materials are widely used in information storage, stress sensing, and structural health monitoring due to their simplicity, nondestructiveness, and real‐time sensing characteristics. However, the currently reported ML films suffer from high‐temperature decomposition, opacity, and unstable ML properties, which seriously limits their applications. Herein, a transparent TbBO3 glass‐ceramic (GCs) with significant ML performance is explored. A large number of Si‐O and B‐O tetrahedra in the glass matrix greatly improves the structural stability. Meanwhile, the disordered atomic arrangement reduces the obstacles in the light propagation process, making it highly transparent. Furthermore, femtosecond laser irradiation produces an ultra‐deep trap of 517 K, which makes its ML performance highly stable. Based on this material, an aircraft stress safety monitoring system that can accurately pinpoint where the aircraft window is hit is designed. Therefore, this work provides a new strategy for the design of highly stable and transparent ML materials.
Independent Dual‐Band Bound States in the Continuum Supported by Double Asymmetric Periodic Gratings in Germanium‐Based Structure
Authors: Zhang Shubin , Zong Meixue , Liu Yiqing , Wu Zhiyong , Lv Jinwen , Xu Zhengji
Published: December 2023

Bound states in the continuum (BIC) are localized states coexisting with extended waves in the continuum spectrum and have infinite lifetimes without emitting radiation. In practice, symmetry‐protected BIC are usually extended to quasi‐BIC by breaking symmetry is commonly employed. A new strategy to realize the dual‐band BIC on an all‐dielectric metasurface is proposed and experimentally proved. This strategy is based on two inverse‐guided modes supported by the double asymmetric periodic gratings (dual‐APGs). In the normal incidence condition, the guided modes are bounded as radiation‐free dark states due to the symmetric incident field and the symmetric structural geometry. By importing symmetry breaking in adjacent gratings or gaps, the guided modes are coupled with radiation mode and converted into resonance states with a high Q‐factor. These two BICs modes supported by air gaps and gratings can be controlled independently. In addition, experimental observation and verification based on the non‐etching fabrication technology in the mid‐infrared band are also implemented. This work provides a new method for the realization and tuning of dual‐frequency BICs, the obtained high Q‐factor independent bi‐quasi BICs have potential applications in nonlinear optics, multi‐mode laser, and optical sensing.
Biallelic pathogenic variants of PARS2 cause developmental and epileptic encephalopathy with spike‐and‐wave activation in sleep
Authors: Licchetta Laura , Di Giorgi Lucia , Santucci Margherita , Taruffi Lisa , Stipa Carlotta , Minardi Raffaella , Carelli Valerio , Bisulli Francesca
Published: December 2023

Background

Biallelic pathogenic variants in the mitochondrial prolyl‐tRNA synthetase 2 gene (PARS2, OMIM * 612036) have been associated with Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy‐75 (DEE‐75, MIM #618437). This condition is typically characterized by early‐onset refractory infantile spasms with hypsarrhythmia, intellectual disability, microcephaly, cerebral atrophy with hypomyelination, lactic acidemia, and cardiomyopathy. Most affected individuals do not survive beyond the age of 10 years.

Methods

We describe a patient with early‐onset DEE, consistently showing an EEG pattern of Spike‐and‐Wave Activation in Sleep (SWAS) since childhood. The patient underwent extensive clinical, metabolic and genetic investigations, including whole exome sequencing (WES).

Results

WES analysis identified compound heterozygous variants in PARS2 that have been already reported as pathogenic. A literature review of PARS2‐associated DEE, focusing mainly on the electroclinical phenotype, did not reveal the association of SWAS with pathogenic variants in PARS2.

Notably, unlike previously reported cases with the same genotype, this patient had longer survival without cardiac involvement or lactic acidosis, suggesting potential genetic modifiers contributing to disease variability.

Conclusion

These findings widen the genetic heterogeneity of DEE‐SWAS, including PARS2 as a causative gene in this syndromic entity, and highlight the importance of prolonged sleep EEG recording for the recognition of SWAS as a possible electroclinical evolution of PARS2‐related DEE.
Prenatal Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) in the Context of BMI, Gestational Weight Gain, and Lipid Profile—An Association Study in Pregnant Women with Overweight or Obesity
Authors: Schönbacher Lukas , Treichler Carmen , Brandl Waltraud , Köfeler Harald C. , Fluhr Herbert , Jantscher‐Krenn Evelyn , van Poppel Mireille N. M.
Published: December 2023

Background

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are bioactive glycans first detected in human milk. Their presence in maternal blood during pregnancy suggests systemic functions. Dynamics and associations of the most abundant prenatal HMOs in relation to maternal BMI and serum lipids in a cohort of 87 pregnant women with either overweight or obesity are studied.

Methods

Serum HMOs (2’FL, 3’SL, 3’SLN, LDFT), serum lipids (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides), and BMI are measured at 15, 24, and 32 weeks of gestation.

Results

2’FL and LDFT are negatively correlated to pre‐pregnancy BMI and increase significantly slower between 15 and 24 weeks in highly obese women. Women without detectable increase of serum 2’FL (non‐secretors) show a less pronounced gestational weight gain and lower BMI in the third trimester as compared to women phenotype as secretors. Higher early‐pregnancy 2’FL is associated with high HDL and low triglycerides in pregnancy. On the other hand, higher 3’SL at 15 weeks is associated with higher triglycerides, LDL, and total cholesterol.

Conclusions

Higher early‐pregnancy 2’FL is associated with a cardioprotective lipid profile, whereas higher 3’SL is associated with an atherogenic lipid profile. Serum trajectories of 2’FL and LDFT in obese women suggest an obesity mediated delay of α‐1,2‐fucosylation.
Malnutrition, sarcopenia, and frailty assessment in pediatric transplantation
Authors: Beer Stacey Silver , Wong Vega Molly
Published: December 2023

Nutrition assessment can be challenging in children with end‐stage organ disease and in those requiring an organ transplant. The effect of poor nutrition status can exert long‐lasting effects on children with end‐stage organ disease requiring transplantation. Malnutrition, sarcopenia, and frailty are conditions that require provision of optimal nutrition to prevent or support the treatment of these conditions. Unfortunately, the literature on the assessment of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and frailty in pediatric end‐stage organ disease is scarce, thus leading to confusion on how to effectively identify them. Recently, the addition of a variety of validated nutrition and functional assessment techniques has assisted with appropriate assessment of these conditions. The objective of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the current literature for pediatric assessment of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and frailty in the setting of solid organ transplantation and provide practicing nutrition clinicians a solid foundation for learning how to effectively assess these conditions with the current literature available.
Validation of a Novel Allergy‐Specific Domain for the 22‐Item Sino‐Nasal Outcomes Test
Authors: Feng Anne Y. , Kim Minjee , Prince Anthony A. , Corrales Carleton E. , Li Anne , Willard Elizabeth , Forrester Carly A. , Piccirillo Jay , Shin Jennifer J.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To develop and assess the validity of a novel allergy‐specific domain for the 22‐item sino‐nasal outcomes test (SNOT‐22), to provide a new tool that efficiently quantifies the impact of allergic rhinitis (AR) concurrent with chronic rhinosinusitis.

Study Design

Prospective validation study.

Setting

Tertiary care hospital and community‐based clinic.

Methods

Proposed items were developed based on clinician and patient input, and further assessed via factor analysis and for internal consistency (n = 1987). Items were then additionally assessed for convergent and discriminant validity (n = 415), applying data from concurrent completions of the Nasal Obstruction and Septoplasty Effectiveness Scale (NOSE), Mini‐Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality‐of‐Life Questionnaire (MiniRQLQ), and validated global health assessments. Assessments of intra‐rater reliability, responsiveness to change, and qualitative input were also performed.

Results

Factor analysis demonstrated that proposed allergy items mapped to a single domain. Items were internally consistent (Cronbach α: 0.80 within domain, 0.91 within all SNOT). In assessments of convergent validity, domain scores were associated with MiniRQLQ (Spearman's ρ: 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.30‐0.59) and NOSE scores (0.36, 95% CI: 0.27‐0.44). The novel items also discriminated among clinical states: a 1‐point increase in domain score was associated with an 8.32 (95% CI: 5.43‐12.75) increase in the odds of prompting a visit for allergy‐related symptoms and a 1.52 (95% CI: 1.13‐2.05) increase in the odds of positive allergy testing. Intra‐rater reliability was substantial (Cohen's κ: 0.8, 95% CI: 0.8‐0.9), and responsiveness to change was demonstrated (mean difference: −0.6, 95% CI: −0.8 to −0.4).

Conclusions

This novel domain is a valid, efficient measure of AR alongside rhinosinusitis.
Development of a Prognostic Nomogram for Modified Tinnitus Relieving Sound Therapy for Subjective Tinnitus
Authors: Gu Dantong , Wu Lingjie , Tang Dongmei
Published: December 2023

Objective

We aimed to develop a modified tinnitus‐relieving sound system and establish a model for predicting its treatment effects.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Tinnitus Specialist Clinic of Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University.

Methods

We recruited 107 patients undergoing modified tinnitus‐relieving sounds between August 2020 and May 2021. Patients were divided into training (n = 75) and validation (n = 32) cohorts in a 7:3 ratio. The treatment outcome was Tinnitus Handicapped Inventory scores. Features were established using a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator‐derived logistic regression model, where the selected clinical risk factors were included in the multivariate logistic regression, and a nomogram was established based on the model. The discrimination and calibration abilities of the nomogram were evaluated using the Hosmer‐Lemeshow test and calibration curves. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to evaluate the net benefit of predictive efficacy.

Results

Multivariate logistic analysis indicated that the initial Tinnitus Handicapped Inventory score (odds ratio [OR]: 1.13 [1.07‐1.19], P < .001) and treatment duration (OR: 3.4 [1.34‐8.62], P < .001) were positive factors for improved tinnitus. The nomogram model that included baseline Tinnitus Handicapped Inventory score and treatment duration achieved a better concordance index of 0.880. DCA revealed that the nomogram model could lead to net benefits and exhibited a wider range of threshold probabilities for the prediction of therapeutic effects.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the nomogram model, including baseline Tinnitus Handicapped Inventory score and treatment duration, could achieve optimal performance in the preoperative prediction of the therapeutic effect of modified tinnitus‐relieving sound.
Enhanced Photocatalytic H2 Generation by Light‐Induced Carbon Modification of TiO2 Nanotubes
Authors: Nasir Amara , Tesler Alexander B. , Mohajernia Shiva , Qin Shanshan , Schmuki Patrik , Mazare Anca , Yasin Tariq
Published: December 2023

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is the material of choice for photocatalytic and electrochemical applications owing to its outstanding physicochemical properties. However, its wide bandgap and relatively low conductivity limit its practical application. Modifying TiO2 with carbon species is a promising route to overcome these intrinsic complexities. In this work, we propose a facile method to modify TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) based on the remnant organic electrolyte retained inside the nanotubes after the anodization process, that is, without removing it by immersion in ethanol. Carbon‐modified TiO2 NTs (C‐TiO2 NTs) showed enhanced H2 evolution in photocatalysis under UV illumination in aqueous solutions. When the C‐TiO2 NTs were subjected to UV light illumination, the carbon underwent modification, resulting in higher measured photocurrents in the tube layers. After UV illumination, the IPCE of the C‐TiO2 NTs was 4.4‐fold higher than that of the carbon‐free TiO2 NTs.
Understanding the structural changes, interfacial mechanisms, and mechanical properties of polymer/MWCNT nanocomposites after microwave treatment
Authors: Chopra Swamini , Pande Kavita , Kelkar Amisha , Deo Shrikant , Panchmatiya Jash , Sharma Sumitra , Deshmukh Abhay , Peshwe Dilip
Published: December 2023

The use of microwave radiation for the post‐processing treatment of engineering polymers is a recent trend not seen by many. In the case of polymers, their crystalline nature is a significant factor in optimizing the treatment time for maximum improvement in mechanical properties. With the advent of nanomaterials, the aim of the present work is to explore the possibility of post‐processing microwave treatment on the structure and property relationships in MWCNT‐reinforced polymer matrices. The microwave‐activated nucleating tendency of MWCNTs was found to be promoting molecular chain rearrangement in poly‐amide (PA) and poly‐butylene‐terephthalate (PBT) nanocomposites. This considerably improved the mechanical characteristics of the composites by facilitating the rearrangement of the crystalline segments of the polymer matrix. The wear performance of PA nanocomposite increased by 30%, while the elongation of PBT nanocomposite increased by 93%, after a treatment of only 15–20 s. However, comparing with previous studies, it was found that, similar to virgin polymers, the treatment time needed for maximum improvement in polymer/MWCNT nanocomposites is hugely dependent on polymer matrix crystallinity as well. A detailed analysis of the microwave‐treated nanocomposites' structure and mechanical properties illustrates the post‐processing microwave treatment as a time‐efficient, cost‐effective, and environmentally friendly technique.

Highlights

Direct use of microwave radiation to heat the finished polymeric component.

Microwave treatment brings about structural changes resulting in enhanced properties.

Instantaneous heating is a key reason for the systematic arrangement of polymeric chains.

Microwave‐activated nucleating tendency of MWCNTs also promotes chain arrangement.

Properties increase as high as 30% wear rate and 93% elongation.
Facile exfoliation of natural silk nanofibrils for homogeneous reinforced composites
Authors: He Li , Huang Renyan , Hua Jiahui , Wang Jiannan , You Renchuan , Yan Shuqin , Zhang Qiang
Published: December 2023

Regenerated silk fibroin (SF) as a biomaterial has attracted increasing attention due to its outstanding biocompatibility and processibility. However, it faces great challenges in practical application because of the deterioration of the intrinsic mechanical properties of natural silk during the regeneration process. Natural silk nanofibrils (SNFs) has a typical hierarchical structure and maintains excellent mechanical properties of natural silk. Based on principle of homogeneous reinforced composites, herein, the SNFs were isolated as a reinforcing material and regenerated SF as matrix material to fabricate high‐performance SF nanocomposites. The SNFs with diameters ranging from 100 to 600 nm were prepared with yields of 87%. They not only maintained the crystallinity of natural silk, but also remained high stability in acid and alkaline solutions. Thanks to homogenous reinforcement of the SNFs, the tensile stress of the reinforced film was up to 2.2 MPa, the strain was 129%, and the water absorption was 50% in wet state. In vitro, the reinforced films supported adhesion and proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, which has potential in the application of biomedical dressings.

Highlights

Natural silk nanofibrils (SNFs) were exfoliated using a facile approach.

The SNFs reinforced the silk nanocomposites significantly.

The silk nanocomposites showed remarkable cytocompatibility.

Homogeneous reinforcement is useful strategy to fabricate nanocomposites.
The need for open and FAIR data in top‐down proteomics
Authors: Lermyte Frederik
Published: December 2023

In recent years, there has been a tremendous evolution in the high‐throughput, tandem mass spectrometry‐based analysis of intact proteins, also known as top‐down proteomics (TDP). Both hardware and software have developed to the point that the technique has largely entered the mainstream, and large‐scale, ambitious, multi‐laboratory initiatives have started to make their appearance in the literature. For this, however, more convenient and robust data sharing and reuse will be required. Walzer et al. have created TopDownApp, a customisable, open platform for visualisation and analysis of TDP data, which they hope will be a step in this direction. As they point out, other benefits of such data sharing and interoperability would include reanalysis of published datasets, as well as the prospect of using large amounts of data to train machine learning algorithms. In time, this work could prove to be a valuable resource in the move towards a future of greater TDP data findability, accessibility, interoperability and reusability.
Sleep disturbances in patients with cirrhosis: Pursuing just right
Authors: Hui Yangyang , Chen Xin , Sun Chao
Published: December 2023

Liver cirrhosis represents the end‐stage of chronic liver disease and is related to high morbidity and mortality. To date, there is no standard curative method for liver cirrhosis, but there is treatment for common complications. Therefore, improving the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients with cirrhosis has become a potential therapeutic intervention by limiting its symptoms and complications. Sleep is a complex and rhythmic physiological process and is crucial to human health. Sleep disturbances are commonly encountered in patients with cirrhosis and adversely affect their HRQoL. Recently, sleep disturbances in patients with cirrhosis have received growing attention owing to their reciprocal effects. To better understand the effect of sleep disturbances on patients with cirrhosis, this review provides a comprehensive summary of the epidemiology and underlying mechanisms of sleep disturbances in cirrhosis. We also elaborate on the mutual relationships between sleep disturbances and other complications, such as muscle cramps, malnutrition, frailty, sarcopenia, HRQoL, and hepatic encephalopathy, in the context of cirrhosis. Finally, we discuss the potential management to improve poor sleep quality in patients with cirrhosis.
Pediatric long‐term noninvasive respiratory support in children with central nervous system disorders
Authors: Carrara Marion , Aubertin Guillaume , Khirani Sonia , Massenavette Bruno , Bierme Priscille , Griffon Lucie , Ioan Iulia , Schweitzer Cyril , Binoche Alexandra , Lampin Marie‐Emilie , Mordacq Clémence , Rubinsztajn Robert , Debeilleix Stéphane , Galode François , Bui Stéphanie , Hullo Eglantine , Becourt Arnaud , Lubrano Marc , Moreau Johan , Renoux Marie‐Catherine , Matecki Stefan , Stremler Nathalie , Baravalle‐Einaudi Melisande , Mazenq Julie , Sigur Elodie , Labouret Géraldine , Genevois Anne‐Laure , Heyman Rachel , Pomedio Michael , Masson Alexandra , Hangard Pauline , Menetrey Céline , Le Clainche Laurence , Bokov Plamen , Dudoignon Benjamin , Fleurence Emmanuelle , Bergounioux Jean , Mbieleu Blaise , Breining Audrey , Giovannin‐Chami Lisa , Fina Agnes , Ollivier Morgane , Gachelin Elsa , Perisson Caroline , Pervillé Anne , Barzic Audrey , Cros Pierrick , Jokic Mickaël , Labbé Guillaume , Diaz Véronique , Coutier Laurianne , Fauroux Brigitte , Taytard Jessica
Published: December 2023

Rationale

The use of long‐term noninvasive respiratory support is increasing in children along with an extension of indications, in particular in children with central nervous system (CNS) disorders.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of children with CNS disorders treated with long‐term noninvasive respiratory support in France.

Methods

Data were collected from 27 French pediatric university centers through an anonymous questionnaire filled for every child treated with noninvasive ventilatory support ≥3 months on 1st June 2019.

Main Results

The data of 182 patients (55% boys, median age: 10.2 [5.4;14.8] years old [range: 0.3–25]) were collected: 35 (19%) patients had nontumoral spinal cord injury, 22 (12%) CNS tumors, 63 (35%) multiple disabilities, 26 (14%) central alveolar hypoventilation and 36 (20%) other CNS disorders. Seventy five percent of the patients were treated with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and 25% with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The main investigations performed before CPAP/NIV initiation were nocturnal gas exchange recordings, alone or coupled with poly(somno)graphy (in 29% and 34% of the patients, respectively). CPAP/NIV was started in an acute setting in 10% of the patients. Median adherence was 8 [6;10] hours/night, with 12% of patients using treatment <4 h/day. Nasal mask was the most common interface (70%). Airway clearance techniques were used by 31% of patients.

Conclusion

CPAP/NIV may be a therapeutic option in children with CNS disorders. Future studies should assess treatment efficacy and patient reported outcome measures.
Management of endocrinological problems in children on home invasive mechanical ventilation
Authors: Şiklar Zeynep
Published: December 2023

Objective

Children with home invasive mechanical ventilation (HIMV) face numerous difficulties, including endocrine problems that can arise as a consequence of their condition. Endocrine problems seen in children treated with HIMV may develop due to the underlying disease, drugs used, or prolonged mechanical ventilation.

Method

This manuscript will review the most common endocrine problems encountered in children with HIMV, including problems in glucose metabolism, thyroid dysfunction, bone metabolism, adrenal dysfunctions, growth, and puberty.

Conclusion

Close monitoring, multidisciplinary care, and regular assessments are essential to optimize the endocrine system functions of children requiring home mechanical ventilation. By understanding these complications, it can develop effective management strategies to optimize the health and well‐being of these vulnerable individuals.
UXO and environmental risk factors impacting EOD operations in German waters**
Authors: Frey Torsten
Published: December 2023

This article presents risk factors that are associated with the handling of unexploded ordnance (UXO) during explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) operations in German waters. The construction of offshore wind parks and the German immediate action program are expected to increase the number of EOD operations. Existing literature and guidelines do not offer a structured and reproducible framework for assessing EOD risk. To fill this gap, a network of EOD risk factors was developed by means of a literature review and validation via expert consultation. The study was scoped to “personnel and equipment at the EOD location” as the risk receptor and “undesired detonation” as the undesired event under investigation. Factors are subdivided into UXO factors that depend on the object that should be handled and factors that describe the object's surrounding environment. While the former can be researched by an EOD expert, the latter must be measured on site or acquired from a model. Each of these factors contributes to risk, some directly and others indirectly via other factors. The complexity of the resulting network, with its 33 factors, demonstrates the need for a reliable and reproducible model to quantify EOD risk. Its purpose is not to replace EOD experts but to aid them in their decision‐making process. Such a tool can provide valuable support for the high‐cost and high‐risk EOD operations.