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Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs) are DNA sequences capable of editing a host genome sequence. CRISPR and its specific CRISPR‐associated (Cas) protein complexes have been adapted for various applications. These include activating or inhibiting specific genetic sequences or acting as molecular scissors to cut and modify the host DNA precisely. CRISPR‐Cas systems are also naturally present in many oral bacteria, where they aid in nutrition, biofilm formation, inter‐ and intraspecies communication (quorum sensing), horizontal gene transfer, virulence, inflammation modulation, coinfection, and immune response evasion. It even functions as an adaptive immune system, defending microbes against invading viruses and foreign genetic elements from other bacteria by targeting and degrading their DNA. Recently, CRISPR‐Cas systems have been tested as molecular editing tools to manipulate specific genes linked with periodontal disease (such as periodontitis) and as novel methods of delivering antimicrobial agents to overcome antimicrobial resistance. With the rapidly increasing role of CRISPR in treating inflammatory diseases, its application in periodontal disease is also becoming popular. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the different types of CRISPR‐Cas in oral microbes and their role in periodontal disease pathogenesis and precision periodontal therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central insulin resistance has been linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and mood disorders. Various proteins belonging to the enzyme family of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) act as inhibitors of insulin signaling. Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type J (PTPRJ) has been identified as a negative regulator in insulin signaling in the periphery. However, the impact of PTPRJ on insulin signaling and its functional role in neuronal cells is largely unknown. Therefore, we generated a Ptprj knockout (KO) cell model in the murine neuroblast cell line Neuro2a by CRISPR‐Cas9 gene editing. Ptprj KO cells displayed enhanced insulin signaling, as shown by increased phosphorylation of the insulin receptor (INSR), IRS‐1, AKT, and ERK1/2. Further, proximity ligation assays (PLA) revealed both direct interaction of PTPRJ with the INSR and recruitment of this phosphatase to the receptor upon insulin stimulation. By RNA sequencing gene expression analysis, we identified multiple gene clusters responsible for glucose uptake and metabolism, and genes involved in the synthesis of various lipids being mainly upregulated under PTPRJ deficiency. Furthermore, multiple Ca2+ transporters were differentially expressed along with decreased protein biosynthesis. This was accompanied by an increase in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers. On a functional level, PTPRJ deficiency compromised cell differentiation and neurite outgrowth, suggesting a role in nervous system development. Taken together, PTPRJ emerges as a negative regulator of central insulin signaling, impacting neuronal metabolism and neurite outgrowth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The association between prolonged cold ischemia times (CIT), donor age, and outcomes in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) from donors after circulatory death (DCD) remains uncertain. We aimed to compare allograft outcomes in DCD‐donor KTRs according to CIT and age. Methods: UNOS database study (2010–2024) of DCD‐donor KTRs on tacrolimus maintenance. We developed a mate‐kidney analysis, comparing outcomes where one mate kidney had CIT >24 and the other ≤24 h. We evaluated patient death, all‐cause allograft failure, and death‐censored graft failure (DCGF) using multivariable stratified Cox proportional hazards models. We compared outcomes across age groups (≥50 or <50 years) and 6‐h‐period CIT deltas between mate kidneys. We assessed delayed graft function (DGF) occurrence with multivariable conditional logistic regression. Results: We included 4092 DCD‐donor mate‐kidney pairs. There were no differences between CIT >24 versus ≤24 h in patient death (aHR 1.12, 95% CI 0.97–1.30), all‐cause allograft failure (aHR 1.10, 95% CI 0.98–1.24), or DCGF (aHR 1.07, 95% CI 0.90–1.27). Similar results were observed when comparing outcomes by age group and 6‐h‐period CIT deltas between mate kidneys. Compared to shorter CITs, CITs >24 h were associated with increased DGF likelihood (aOR 1.42, 95% CI 1.25–1.60), as were increasing CIT deltas. Conclusion: CITs >24 h in DCD‐donor KTRs were not associated with adverse allograft outcomes, irrespective of age group. However, prolonged CITs were associated with increased DGF likelihood. Increasing the acceptance of both mate kidney from DCD donors should be considered despite projected CITs >24 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a notable shift toward organic functional materials for their advantages in terms of availability, processability and biodegradability. Solid‐state organic emitters, though rare, are fascinating with diverse range of applications. In this work we utilize crystal engineering principles to design Schiff bases 1 and 2, to realize solid state emission and its tuning. The products have been characterized and studied through crystallographic, Hirshfeld, and optical studies. Structural studies validate crystallization of 1 and 2 with a molecule of methanol and water, respectively, and their packing is predominantly aided by solvent assisted hydrogen bonding, while the π‐π stacking interactions are absent. Crystalline solids are emissive: 1 (λmax 474 nm, τ 0.35 ± 0.04 ns) and 2 (481 nm, 1.80 ± 0.07 ns) and aggregation induced emission (AIE) active. Mechano and thermo‐fluorochromic responses of the products are attributed to phase changes triggered by grinding and desolvation, respectively. The nonemissive solutions of 1 and 2 detect presence of Pb(II) /Hg(II) through emission turn‐on, with limit of detection (LOD) values in the range of 0.0017–0.0022 ppb, while picric acid sensing is reported by their AIE luminogen (AIEgen) forms with LOD values of 0.0017 ppb and 0.0034 ppb, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic testing of patients with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) is critical for diagnosis, medical management, and access to precision therapies. Because genetic testing approaches evolve rapidly, professional society practice guidelines serve an essential role in guiding clinical care; however, several challenges exist regarding the creation and equitable implementation of these guidelines. In this scoping review, we assessed the current state of United States professional societies' guidelines pertaining to genetic testing for unexplained global developmental delay, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and cerebral palsy. We describe several identified shortcomings and argue the need for a unified, frequently updated, and easily‐accessible cross‐specialty society guideline. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:900–913 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Thar Desert, India has desert pavements comprising angular‐subangular to well‐rounded gravels at marginally higher elevations than the surrounding terrain. Sedimentological and geomorphic analyses suggest that the pavements are lags of weathered Mesozoic and older bedrock. The presence of Palaeolithic artefacts on the pavement surfaces and occasionally within their matrix was used to infer their antiquity and landscape stability. This study presents the first surface exposure ages based on cosmic‐ray‐produced 10Be and 21Ne for pavements at four sites in the Thar Desert, viz. Bhojka, Hamira, Solanki and Jayal. The computation of model exposure ages assumed that (a) the gravels were derived from cemented conglomerates, uplifted by tectonics and thereafter disintegrated by climate, and (b) cosmogenic nuclide production in the gravels began when the conglomerates approached the surface and, continued during their disintegration, gravity sliding of individual gravels and storage, until the present. Assuming an average burial depth of 50 cm, 21Ne and 10Be data provide ages ranging from 1.30 to 2.92 Ma and 1.11 to 5.4 Ma, respectively, for the two nuclides. Published electron spin resonance ages of Thar calcretes suggest the presence of water and extreme seasonality since 1.54 Ma. Such conditions facilitated the mobilization and precipitation of carbonates. The pavement ages and the minimum age of the conglomerate at 2.51 Ma extend the time of such desertic conditions to > 2.51 Ma and suggest that the initiation of desertic conditions in the Thar was possibly linked to global aridity beginning around 3.6 Ma. Depending on assumptions, cosmic ray surface exposure (10Be) ages at Jayal range between 0.76 and 2.43 Ma. In the context of the Indian Palaeolithic, the presence of tools on the gravel surfaces and within dunes, suggests frequent occupation of this region from at least 0.76 Ma and, parallels Early to Middle Pleistocene Acheulian assemblages from Southern India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile and highly efficient chemoselective reduction of α,β‐unsaturated amides leading to saturated amide has been described. In situ generated nickel boride was found to act as an efficient reagent for the conjugate reduction. The reaction proceeds smoothly under an inert atmosphere at ambient temperature with a moderate to good yield. Both aliphatic and aromatic α,β‐unsaturated amides were found to be compatible with the reaction protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the emergence of multi‐drug resistant tuberculosis, there is a need for the exploration of new antitubercular agents. In this context, new coumarin‐based 1,2,3‐triazole hybrids were developed and evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against ESKAPE pathogens and the Mtb H37Rv strain. Among them, compounds 9 c and 12 showed MICs of 1 and 2 μg/mL, respectively, against the Mtb strain. The lead compounds exhibited a good selectivity index against Vero cells and were equally effective against ETB‐resistant and RIF‐resistant Mtb strains. Time‐kill kinetic studies revealed the bacteriostatic properties of the lead compounds, while combination studies using FDA‐approved antibiotics showed no drug interactions. Based on the structural similarity, it was envisaged that they might inhibit the DNA gyrase, which was further proved by the DNA supercoiling inhibition assay. Additionally, in silico docking studies, binding energy calculations, and ADME/T studies for the synthesized conjugates showed favourable pharmacokinetic and physicochemical characteristics. Hence, these molecules could further pave the way for discovering new potent antitubercular agents to combat AMR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Menopause weakens the brain's structural integrity and increases its susceptibility to a range of degenerative and mental illnesses. 17β estradiol (17βE2) exhibits potent neuroprotective properties. Exogenous estrogen supplementation provides neuroprotection, but the findings presented by the Million Women Study (MWS) and the Women's Health Initiative (WHI), as well as the increased risk of endometrial cancer, breast cancer and venous thromboembolism associated with estrogen use, have cast doubt on its clinical use for neurological disorders. Thus, the objective of our review article is to compile all in vitro and in vivo studies conducted till date demonstrating the neuroprotective potential of nonfeminizing estrogens. This objective has been achieved by gathering various research and review manuscripts from different records such as PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science and OVID, using different terms like 'estrogen deficiency, 17β estradiol, non‐feminising estrogens, and brain disorder'. However, recent evidence has revealed the contribution of numerous non‐estrogen receptor‐dependent pathways in neuroprotective effects of estrogen. In conclusion, synthetic nonfeminizing estrogens that have little or no ER binding but are equally powerful (and in some cases more potent) in delivering neuroprotection are emerging as viable and potential alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to develop and apply an algorithm for solving space‐time fractional reaction‐advection diffusion (STFRAD) nonlinear coupled equations with specified initial and boundary conditions by employing a Shifted Legendre Gauss‐Lobatto collocation (SLGLC) scheme. The fractional derivatives of time and space are defined in Caputo sense. The approximate solutions have been constructed with the help of shifted Legendre polynomials. The proposed numerical scheme reduces the coupled fractional order differential equations into a system of algebraic equations which can then be easily solved. The error analysis through the two test problems is carried out to validate the efficiency and efficacy of the method. The effect of advection and reaction terms, and various space‐time fractional order derivatives on the solution profiles have been studied and are shown graphically for different particular cases. It has been observed that the species whose transport is simulated using STFRADE shows higher concentration at a specific distance in porous media in case of integer order differential equations as compared to fractional order equations demonstrating overestimation of its impact in case of integer order differential equation. This is extremely important observation with respect to applications in the field of groundwater pollution management. The salient feature of the article is the stability and convergence analyses of the proposed scheme on the concerned model, which demonstrates the effectiveness and capabilities of the developed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the remarkable progress made on intercluster conversion in atomically precise metal nanoclusters (MNCs) and their self‐organization to develop microscopic molecular architecture with well‐defined size and shape, achieving light‐induced reversible structural transformation and the development of micro‐ring self‐assembly in MNCs have, so far, remained elusive. The present investigation touches on these two long‐standing quests by showcasing a new route, light‐induced Particle‐Assisted Reversible Interconversion (PARI) for the reversible transformation from Face Centered Cubic (FCC) Ag14NCs to Ag7NCs. Our studies reveal that the lack of plasmonic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in the system results in the formation of Ag7NCs with metallic kernels having centrosymmetric crystal packing. The molecular self‐organization of Ag7NCs through various non‐covalent interactions such as C−H⋅⋅⋅O, C−H⋅⋅⋅H−C, and C−H⋅⋅⋅π leads to the formation of micro‐ring morphology, a unique molecular architecture in MNCs. The in situ generated AgNPs due to the acceleration of the reaction kinetics by Cu2+ ions facilitate the growth of Ag14NCs with FCC metallic kernel. These two structural units of AgNCs show light‐induced reversible structural transformation which is also associated with the reversible tuning of their spectroscopic and morphological signatures. This PARI‐guided interconversion strategy put forward a most appropriate example of a structure–property relationship in MNCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic ionic liquids (MILs) are a subclass of ionic liquids that exhibit paramagnetic properties intrinsically, without the need for additional magnetic particles. These properties can be attributed to the cations, anions, or both. Typically, MILs incorporate transition or inner‐transition metals within the anion structure. These adaptable liquids demonstrate remarkable physicochemical properties, notably a robust response to external magnetic fields. The body of research concerning the synthesis, characterization, and practical applications of MILs has expanded swiftly in recent times. This review delves into the latest research on the synthesis, properties, and utilization of MILs across various domains, including catalysis, fluid‐fluid separation, polymer science, and analytical chemistry. Within the realm of analytical chemistry, MILs are pivotal, serving as solvents in various analytical procedures such as dispersive liquid‐liquid micro‐extraction, matrix solid‐phase dispersion, and single‐drop micro‐extraction. Owing to their paramagnetic nature, MILs are instrumental in the separation process, streamlining organic reactions by obviating the need for traditional extraction or centrifugation steps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the experimental investigation of the mechanical properties of PBT/PC blends with varying compositions. The studied mechanical properties include tensile strength, elongation, tensile modulus, impact strength, and Shore hardness of PBT/PC blends with different PC contents. PBT, characterized by its semi‐crystalline and tough nature, contrasts with PC, known for its impact resistance and hardness. Achieving an optimal blend composition proves to be crucial for attaining the best combination of these properties. The tensile strength of the PBT/PC 30/70 blend increased by approximately 24%, with Shore hardness also experienced a 12% enhancement compared to pure PBT. This improvement is attributed to the presence of PC segments in the blend structure. Conversely, an increase in PC content led to the elongation and impact strength of the blends peaking in the PBT/PC 70/30 blend. Notably, the impact strength of the PBT/PC blend with 30% PC increased by about three times compared to PBT and 18% more than pure PC. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that PBT and PC segments disperse at lower PC content, while at higher content, phase separation becomes prominent. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis indicates direct transesterification between PBT and PC, resulting in the formation of a long‐chain blend structure with random copolymer blocks. The transesterification mechanism is also supported by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) results, wherein a reduction in the crystallization temperature (Tc) and an increase in the glass transition temperature (Tg) is observed. The study concludes that the volume of these segments and their bonding play a decisive role in determining the mechanical properties. The bonding mechanism elucidated through FTIR and SEM provides valuable insights into the fabrication and property engineering of PBT/PC blends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzocyclotrimers (BCTs) like trindane and dodecahydrotriphenylene (DDHTP) have attracted attention as key components for the construction of higher polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons due to their aesthetic architecture that is useful in developing beautiful carbocycles of higher order. However, there are limited reports on these ring systems since their functionalization is a formidable task. Our personal engagement with these scaffolds prompted us to explore the synthesis of their synthetically useful derivatives. Herein, we report syntheses of a new series of their derivatives by exploiting the α–position of these cycloalkanones using classical Claisen‐Schmidt condensation reaction as well as simple and practical α‐Csp3–H halogenation with suitable halogenating agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Psilocybin shows promise as a treatment for CRPS, offering significant pain relief and functional improvement in a patient with refractory symptoms. This case highlights the need for further research into psilocybin's efficacy and optimal dosing for chronic pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Modeling outcomes, such as onset of heart failure (HF) or mortality, in patients following ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is challenging but clinically very useful. The acute insult following a myocardial infarction and chronic degeneration seen in HF involve a similar process where a loss of cardiomyocytes and abnormal remodeling lead to pump failure. This process may alter the strength and direction of the heart's net depolarization signal. We hypothesize that changes over time in unique parameters extracted using vectorcardiography (VCG) have the potential to predict outcomes in patients post‐STEMI and could eventually be used as a noninvasive and cost‐effective surveillance tool for characterizing the severity and progression of HF to guide evidence‐based therapies. Methods: We identified 162 patients discharged from Michigan Medicine between 2016 and 2021 with a diagnosis of acute STEMI. For each patient, a single 12‐lead ECG > 1 week pre‐STEMI and > 1 week post‐STEMI were collected. A set of unique VCG parameters were derived by analyzing features of the QRS complex. We used LASSO regression analysis incorporating clinical variables and VCG parameters to create a predictive model for HF, mortality, or the composite at 90, 180, and 365 days post‐STEMI. Results: The VCG model is most predictive for HF onset at 90 days with a robust AUC. Variables from the HF model mitigating or driving risk, at a p < 0.05, were primarily parameters that assess the area swept by the depolarization vector including the 3D integral and convex hull in select spatial octants and quadrants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preliminary evidence indicates potential benefit of providing caregiver‐mediated intervention, prior to diagnosis, for infants at elevated familial likelihood for autism and related developmental delays including language delay (EL‐A). However, delivering such interventions online and in low‐resource settings like India has not been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of delivering a novel manualized caregiver‐mediated early support program, the "LiL' STEPS," online in India, for EL‐A infants. LiL' STEPS stands for Language development & Intervention Lab's (LiL') Supporting Early social‐communication and language by Promoting caregiver Sensitive responsiveness (STEPS). The program comprised 14 sessions with a focus on social‐communication and language, conducted over 12‐weeks using demonstration and video feedback. Families of 36 EL‐A infants aged 9 to 15‐months participated in this feasibility randomized controlled trial (RCT). Families were randomized in a 2:1 ratio (n = 24 LiL' STEPS and n = 12 care as usual groups). Information on feasibility and acceptability was collated following a mixed methods approach from caregiver interviews, fidelity forms, session notes, and study register. Findings indicated the LiL' STEPS study trial as feasible and acceptable with recruitment rate of 4 per month, 100% willingness for randomization, 8.3% attrition, and 3.03% loss of blinding. Interventionist and caregiver fidelity was maintained above 80%. Despite challenges like interruptions during sessions, 100% families found the program acceptable and satisfactory, 86% said they would recommend the program to others, and 71% preferred online modality. Caregivers' perspectives on beneficial components and experience attending the program have been described. Accordingly, recommendations for future definitive RCTs have been presented. Lay Summary: The current study tries to understand if it is possible to provide an early support program called LiL' STEPS, online, in India and how acceptable it is to families of infant siblings of autistic children. The program comprised 14 sessions that ran for 12‐weeks with a focus on social‐communication and language. Caregivers were taught strategies using demonstration. Later, they received feedback based on their play‐video recordings with their infants. Findings indicate that despite challenges such as rescheduling and interruptions in network, families reported that they found the program satisfactory and would recommend the program to other families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we designed a chiral, axially‐twisted molecular scaffold (ATMS) using pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxamide (PDC) unit as pivot, chiral trans‐cyclohexanediamine (CHDA) residues as linkers, and pyrene residues as fluorescent reporters. R,R‐ATMS exclusively adopted M‐helicity and produced differential response in UV‐vis, fluorescence, and NMR upon addition of tartaric acid (TA) stereoisomers allowing naked‐eye detection and enantiomeric content determination. Circular dichroism (CD) profile of R,R‐ATMS underwent unique changes during titration with TA stereoisomers ‐ while loss of CD signal at 345 nm was observed with equimolar D‐TA and meso‐TA, inversion was seen with equimolar L‐TA. Temperature increase weakened these interactions to partially recover the original CD signature of R,R‐ATMS. 2D NMR studies also indicated the significant structural changes in R,R‐ATMS in the solution state upon addition of L‐TA. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) studies on the crystals of the R,R‐ATMS⊃D‐TA salt revealed the interacting partners stacked in arrays and ATMS molecules stabilized by π‐π stacking between its PDC and pyrene residues. Contrastingly, tightly‐packed supramolecular cages comprised of four molecules each of R,R‐ATMS and L‐TA were seen in R,R‐ATMS⊃L‐TA salt, and the ATMS molecules contorted to achieve CH‐π interactions between its pyrene residues. These results may have implications in modulating the helicity of topologically‐similar larger biomolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the beginning of nanoscience and nanotechnology, carbon dots (CDs) have been the foundational idea and have dominated the growth of the nano‐field. CDs are an intriguing platform for utilization in biology, technology, catalysis, and other fields thanks to their numerous distinctive structural, physicochemical, and photochemical characteristics. Since several carbon dots have already been created, they have been assessed based on their synthesis process, and luminescence characteristics. Due to their biocompatibility, less toxic effects, and most significantly their fluorescent features in contrast to other carbon nanostructures, CDs have several benefits. This review focuses on the most recent advancements in the characterization, applications, and synthesis techniques used for CDs made from natural sources. It will also direct scientists in the creation of a synthesis technique for adjustable carbon dots that is more practical, effective, and environmentally benign. With low toxicity and low cost, CDs are meeting the new era's requirements for more selectivity and sensitivity in the detection and sensing of various things, such as biomaterial sensing, enzymes, chemical contamination, and temperature sensing. Its variety of properties, such as optical properties, chemiluminescence, and morphological analysis, make it a good option to use in bioimaging, drug delivery, biosensors, and cancer diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioinspired titanium implant nanotexturing achieved via advanced techniques such as lithography, hydrothermal and laser patterning enables modulation of cell functions toward enhanced bioactivity and antibacterial efficacy. However, such costly, multi‐step methods limit clinical translation and benchtop implant modification. For the first time, single‐step, cost‐effective, and translatable electrochemical anodization is reported to fabricate bioinspired nanopillar‐like textures on micro‐rough titanium. In‐depth surface characterization confirms the formation of novel nanostructures, namely nanoscale Spinules, Daggers, Papillae, Spikes, and Flames, exhibiting varied roughness and wettability. Next, in separate experiments, primary human osteoblasts and polymicrobial salivary biofilm are cultured on the implant substrates. Nanotextured surfaces show high protein adhesion and maintain the proliferation, adhesion, and spreading of osteoblasts. Interestingly, all nanotextures exhibit superior antibiofilm abilities compared to control surfaces. Bioactive and antibacterial implant surface nano‐texturing achieved via single‐step anodization has the potential for clinical translation as the next generation of orthopedic and dental implant surface modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case of pediatric Behçet's disease in an 11-year-old boy who initially presented with symptoms that mimicked pulmonary malignancy. The boy had a paravertebral mass, along with pyrexia of unknown origin, weight loss, myalgias, and orogenital ulcers. Further examination and imaging revealed thrombophlebitis, anemia, leukocytosis, and raised inflammatory markers. After ruling out other conditions, the boy was diagnosed with Behçet's disease based on the pediatric Behçet's criteria. Treatment with medication resulted in improvement, and the boy is currently doing well. The article also provides information on the pulmonary manifestations of Behçet's disease. [Extracted from the article]

A growing antimicrobial crisis has increased demand for antimicrobial materials. It has become increasingly popular to convert polymeric macromolecules into polymeric carbon particles (PCP) in order to achieve highly biocompatible materials with unique properties as a result of the ability to synthesize nanomaterials of the right size and add value to existing stable polymers. This work presents the tuning of PCP for antibacterial application by combining a biocidal polymer with one‐pot solvothermal synthesis. PCP displayed broad‐spectrum antibacterial activity via various mechanisms, including inhibition of bacterial cell walls, ROS generation, and antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, these biocidal PCP were observed to show excitation‐independent near‐white light emission which on the other hand is generally possible due to mixed sizes, doping, and surface effects. As opposed to the parent biocidal polymer, PCP added ROS‐mediated bactericidal activity, increased cytocompatibility, and nanofibers with anti‐adhesive effects and potential of imaging bacterial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Probiotics are promising adjuncts to non‐surgical periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing (SRP)) for managing gingival and periodontal diseases. Probiotics are considered alternatives to antibiotics, especially with the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Hence, the present systematic review aims to generate evidence on the role of probiotics compared to antimicrobial agents for managing periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis). Method: Six electronic databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, EBSCO, Cochrane, Clinical Trial Registry) were searched to collect studies comparing the effect of probiotics with antibiotics for periodontal disease. In total, 5530 articles were retrieved from all databases, of which 1891 were included for title and abstract screening. After screening, a total of ten clinical studies were included for data extraction and analysis. Probing pocket depth (PPD), Clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and microbial profile were recorded. Results: Probiotics showed a significant reduction in the PPD and CAL compared to antibiotics. Antibiotics were more effective in reducing the PI and GI. A combination of probiotics and antibiotics superior compared to probiotics and antibiotics alone. Conclusion: Probiotics can be used as an alternative to antibiotics, however, a combination is more effective for managing periodontal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Long‐COVID syndrome lacks effective holistic treatment options. We present a case of a 41‐year‐old fully vaccinated female with Long‐COVID syndrome who obtained significant symptomatic relief after self‐medicating with psilocybin and MDMA. Long‐COVID, a syndrome persisting after the acute phase of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), lacks effective holistic treatment options. We present a case of a 41‐year‐old fully vaccinated female with Long‐COVID syndrome who obtained significant symptomatic relief by self‐prescribing psilocybin and MDMA. Future research is needed to assess safety and efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sixteen percent of patients referred for cardiology evaluation are found to have no cause for palpitations. Studies show that hypertension intricately influences "heart rate" and "contractility,?" the key components of "palpitation." While the prevalence of hypertension is 22.4% in 18–39‐year‐olds, the relationship between palpitations and hypertension remains unknown in this age group. In our study, we assessed the incidence and prevalence of hypertension over 5 years in 18–40‐year‐olds referred for palpitations who had no known arrhythmic cause for palpitations between January 1, 206 and December 31, 2017. We found that over a period of 2.2 (0.7–4.1) years, an additional 56% patients were diagnosed with stage 1 (65/130) and stage 2 (28/130) hypertension, increasing the prevalence from 16% at the start of the study period to 72% at the end of the study period (p <.0001). Hypertensive patients were obese (BMI: 29 [24–36] kg/m2 vs. 25 [22–31] kg/m2; p =.03), used nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (62 vs. 35%; p =.04), had a stronger family history of hypertension (55 vs. 4%; p <.0001) and exhibited higher systolic (124[120–130] mmHg vs. 112[108–115] mmHg; p <.0001) and diastolic (80[76–83] mmHg vs. 72[69–75] mmHg; p <.0001) blood pressures. Hypertension is commonly diagnosed in 18–40‐year‐old predominantly white female patients referred for palpitations without a known arrhythmic cause. The possibility of untreated hypertension causing palpitations in this cohort needs further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of pyrrole‐thiazolidin‐4‐one conjugates were synthesized and evaluated for their anti‐mycobacterial and anti‐bacterial activities. Two compounds, 10 a and 10 k, were the most effective conjugates and produced identical MICs (0.5 μg/mL) against M. tuberculosis H37Rv with a high selectivity index. Upon evaluation against the ESKAP bacteria panel, compound 10 g emerged most effective against S. aureus (MIC=8.0 μg/mL) while compound 10 o produced activity against A. baumannii (MIC=4.0 μg/mL). A molecular docking study revealed that the most active compound 10 a has similar binding interactions as those of BM212 and rimonabant, with a comparable docking score against M. tuberculosis mycolic acid transporter MmpL3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adaptable community‐based approaches for assessment and delivery of suicide prevention interventions for men experiencing suicidal crisis are needed. The lay your cards on the table (LYCT) component of the James' Place Model is a novel therapeutic approach comprised of four sets of card variables that correspond with suicidal risk factors. This study investigated the LYCT in predicting suicidal distress among men. Methods: Cross‐sectional data of 511 men aged 18–69 years (M = 34.59 years; SD = 12.30) collected between 1st August 2018 and 29th July 2021 were assessed to predict suicidal distress measured using the CORE Clinical Outcome Measures (CORE‐OM). Results: From four categories comprising the LYCT, correlational analyses demonstrated that 20 associations emerged as statistically significant (r's = 0.12–0.19). When these were included in regression analyses, effect sizes explained 2%–5% variance in CORE‐OM outcomes (R2). Conclusion: Use of LYCT is supported for engaging men in the assessment of suicide risk factors and to inform tailoring of intervention delivery to suit the individual needs of men experiencing suicidal crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To describe the baseline characteristics of participants in the FINEARTS‐HF trial, contextualized with prior trials including patients with heart failure (HF) with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF). The FINEARTS‐HF trial is comparing the effects of the non‐steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone with placebo in reducing cardiovascular death and total worsening HF events in patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF. Methods and results: Patients with symptomatic HF, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥40%, estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥ 25 ml/min/1.73 m2, elevated natriuretic peptide levels and evidence of structural heart disease were enrolled and randomized to finerenone titrated to a maximum of 40 mg once daily or matching placebo. We validly randomized 6001 patients to finerenone or placebo (mean age 72 ± 10 years, 46% women). The majority were New York Heart Association functional class II (69%). The baseline mean LVEF was 53 ± 8% (range 34–84%); 36% of participants had a LVEF <50% and 64% had a LVEF ≥50%. The median N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) was 1041 (interquartile range 449–1946) pg/ml. A total of 1219 (20%) patients were enrolled during or within 7 days of a worsening HF event, and 3247 (54%) patients were enrolled within 3 months of a worsening HF event. Compared with prior large‐scale HFmrEF/HFpEF trials, FINEARTS‐HF participants were more likely to have recent (within 6 months) HF hospitalization and greater symptoms and functional limitations. Further, concomitant medications included a larger percentage of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitors than previous trials. Conclusions: FINEARTS‐HF has enrolled a broad range of high‐risk patients with HFmrEF and HFpEF. The trial will determine the safety and efficacy of finerenone in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is commonly characterized by shortness of breath, coughing or expectoration. Smoking is the leading cause of COPD development, but only a small percentage of smokers develop symptoms, implying a genetic component. Glutathione S‐transferase enzymes are responsible for detoxifying cigarette smoke components. The role of glutathione S‐transferase T1 (GSTT1) and glutathione S‐transferase M1 (GSTM1) gene polymorphism was assessed with COPD susceptibility and associated clinical parameters in the North Indian population. This was a cross‐sectional study involving 200 COPD patients and 200 healthy individuals, with peripheral blood sampling and adequate questionnaires. Multiplex PCR was used for genotyping GSTT1 and GSTM1 gene polymorphism. Logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals to assess the COPD risk and GST polymorphisms. The GSTT1 gene deletion rate was higher in COPD cases (34.5%) than in healthy individuals (20.5%). A statistical relationship between the GSTT1(−) null genotype and COPD risk was observed (odds ratio = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.30–3.20, P = 0.0019). After adjusting for covariates like age, sex and smoking status, a significant association was found for GSTT1(−) null genotype and COPD risk (adjusted odds ratio = 2.90, 95% CI = 1.43–5.87, P = 0.003). The GSTT1(−) genotype was also significantly correlated with clinical parameters for COPD risk. Another primary observation was that females with the GSTT1(−) null genotype were more vulnerable to COPD than males with the same gene deletion. The GSTT1(−) null genotype strongly correlates with COPD development, while no association was observed in the GSTM1(−) null genotype in the North Indian population. What is the central question of this study?Genetic variations in the GSTT1 and GSTM1 enzymes that detoxify cigarette smoke products might be correlated to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) development: do GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms modulate the risk for COPD in North Indians and what is the relationship with associated clinical parameters?What is the main finding and its importance?The GSTT1(−) null genotype was strongly correlated with COPD development, and GSTT1 deletion was also linked with higher Global Strategy for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) grading. At the same time, no association was observed in the GSTM1(−) null genotype in the North Indian COPD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a unique case of a combined intra and extraosseous schwannoma of the calcaneus, which is a rare type of tumor that originates from Schwann cells in peripheral nerves. The patient, a 32-year-old male, presented with a mass on the medial aspect of his left heel. MRI imaging revealed a bursa-like structure around the calcaneus with areas of bone destruction and intraosseous extension. A biopsy was inconclusive, so surgical excision, curettage of the affected bone, and bone grafting were performed. The histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of schwannoma, and the patient had a successful recovery with no evidence of recurrence. This case highlights the diagnostic and management challenges associated with this rare condition and emphasizes the importance of timely surgical intervention. [Extracted from the article]

Earth's temperature has risen by ≈0.18 °C per decade since 1981 and year 2022 is the sixth‐warmest year on record. The exploration of cooling strategies that operate with less energy consumption is thus highly desirable. Through this project, a camel‐fur‐inspired passive membrane encapsulated sorbent cooler that can periodically absorb moisture from the atmosphere and release it for daytime evaporative cooling, leading to effective regulation of building temperature without additional energy input is demonstrated. This sorbent cooler with high sorption capacity is made of anhydrous salt and modified expanded graphite and further encapsulated by a breathable porous membrane. This novel material is shape‐stabilized, and it has excellent cycling performance, and remarkable water adhesion ability. In this evaporative‐cooling demonstration, the average cooling power of the camel‐fur‐inspired sorbent can reach up to 630 W m−2, which is much higher than the radiative cooling approach. This theoretical model implies that the proposed sorbent cooler has the potential to cut down cooling energy carbon emission by 61% to 87.83% when compared to emissions released from cooling energy usage in reference buildings. This nature‐inspired approach paves a new way for efficient space cooling without extra water supply and with minimized energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary goals of green analytical chemistry (GAC) involve the development of novel analytical technologies or the modification of existing methods to incorporate procedures with reduced reliance on hazardous chemicals. Several approaches can be employed to achieve these objectives, including the utilization of environmentally friendly solvents and reagents, shortening chromatographic separation times, and the miniaturization of analytical devices. The review summarizes the evolution of GAC with its specific principles and with special emphasis on recent applications in modern era. A detailed exploration of the choice of green solvents and their practical utilization in green liquid chromatography (LC) techniques for environmentally friendly analysis of pharmaceuticals has been discussed. An ordinary description with a tabular illustration of various modern green analytical techniques like micellar LC, superheated water chromatography, high‐speed LC, enhanced fluidity LC, two‐dimensional LC, and aspects of gas chromatography has been thoroughly provided for concepts with their mechanism and limitations. GAC provides potential applications for food analysis, environmental analysis of pharmaceutically active compounds in the aquatic environment with special emphasis on strategies for greening LC and impurity profiling, and so on. Numerous benefits, limitations, and challenges that are linked to the field of GAC are highlighted in this review. We pay special attention to new green approaches, such as automation, miniaturization, direct analysis techniques, and some initiatives like the National Environmental Methods Index Label for Analytical Eco‐Scale assessment. In spite of many promising advancements, the understanding is still limited and challenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bakery products have gained prominence in modern diets due to their convenience and accessibility, often serving as staple meals across diverse regions. However, the fats used in these products are rich in saturated fatty acids and often comprise trans fatty acids, which are considered as a major biomarker for non‐communicable diseases like cardiovascular disorders, obesity and diabetes. Additionally, these fats lack the essential omega‐3 fatty acids, which are widely known for their therapeutic benefits. They play a major role in lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes. Thus, there is need for incorporating these essential fatty acids into bakery fats. Nevertheless, fortifying food products with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) poses several challenges due to their high susceptibility to oxidation. This oxidative deterioration leads to not only the formation of undesirable flavors, but also a loss of nutritional value in the final products. This review focuses on the development of healthier trans‐fat‐free bakery fat enriched with omega‐3 fatty acids and its effect on the physicochemical, functional, sensory and nutritional properties of bakery fats and products. Further, the role of various technologies like physical blending, enzymatic interesterification and encapsulation to improve the stability of PUFA‐rich bakery fat is discussed, where microencapsulation emerged as a novel and effective technology to enhance the stability and shelf life. By preventing deteriorative changes, microencapsulation ensures that the nutritional, physicochemical and sensory properties of food products remain intact. Novel modification methods like interesterification and microencapsulation used for developing PUFA‐rich bakery fats have a potential to address the health risks occurring due to consumption of bakery fat having higher amount of saturated and trans fatty acids. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Our study aims to better understand and describe the current state of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leadership in emergency medicine (EM) by identifying the prevalence of department DEI leadership positions, their demographics, and their job duty characteristics. Methods: We disseminated an electronic survey from April to July 2022 to Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM) Association of Academic Chairs of Emergency Medicine, Academy for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Medicine, and the Equity and Inclusion Committee to identify department DEI leads. From July to August 2022, a 45‐question survey was sent to all identified DEI leaders on individual characteristics, DEI experience, and DEI lead job description. Results: We received a response from 79 out of 120 academic EM departments identified (65.8%). Of the responding institutions, 59 (74.7%) reported a DEI leader. A total of 74.6% of these DEI leaders responded at least partially to our survey and 57.6% responded in full. The most common titles were vice/associate chair of DEI (34.4%), director of DEI (28.1%), and DEI committee chair (18.8%). Most respondents (84.4%) were the inaugural DEI lead in their department and 84.4% of respondents did not have a formal DEI role in their department previously. On average, respondents have had their DEI title for 2 years (range 0–7 years) with an average of 7 years (range 0–30 years) of experience performing DEI work. Many (63.4%) do not receive any funded effort for their DEI roles. Most DEI leads were not tenure track (72.2%) and most commonly at the rank of assistant professor (47.2%) followed by associate professor (33.3%), full professor (16.7%), and instructor (2.8%). Conclusions: This is the first known study to assess the characteristics of DEI department leaders in EM. EM DEI leadership positions are new, common, and led by diverse personal identities and are often not funded. Future directions could gain qualitative insight into this workforce to guide best practices in EM DEI leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the effect of diffusion, advection and Fisher terms when nonlinear diffusion occurs in a porous medium. The main advantage of this article is the derivation of a fourth‐order cubic B‐spline collocation method to solve the nonlinear advection‐diffusion Fisher equation, which represents many important natural phenomena. The Crank‐Nicholson method has been used to discretize space and time. The salient feature of the article is the demonstration of the unconditional stability of the proposed method using the Fourier method. While applying on existing problem having an exact solution, it is shown through error analysis that our proposed scheme is very effective. The important feature of the article is the graphical showcasing of the solution profiles for different particular cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart failure is the most common cardiovascular complication during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It is associated with increased risk of maternal morbidity and mortality as well as potentially life‐threatening foetal pathology. Management of heart failure in pregnancy requires expert knowledge of cardiovascular disease as well as obstetrics which underscores the importance of multidisciplinary cardio‐obstetrics teams in order to optimize diagnosis, treatment and outcome. This includes counselling of women at risk before and during the course of pregnancy in order to strengthen the relationship between medical specialists and patients, as well as to allow patient‐centred delivery of care and improve quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores teachers' conceptions of climate change knowledge, contributing to the growing body of work on the geographies of climate change. The paper focuses on the data generated through in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with a sample of 48 teachers in India to address the research question: What discourses about climate change knowledge are being constructed by teachers in India? We argue that teachers' lesson planning and searches for information are at the forefront of the changing ways in which individuals engage with, find out and construct meaning about climate change. These teachers' beliefs about climate change are very strongly held, even in the face of a perceived lack of expertise or understanding: climate change is described as the 'need of the hour', which this work understands as not only involving material impacts and processes but also important epistemological, collaborative needs through which education might contribute to public reasoning about climate change. Through this analysis we present a 'certainty problematic' as a heuristic device that foregrounds tensions between the inherent uncertainty of knowledge and (against climate denialism) certainty about anthropogenic climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article investigates the subtle risk factors for periodontitis, specifically focusing on the impact of third-hand smoke. Topics discussed include the correlation between third-hand smoke and periodontal disease, potential mechanisms through which third-hand smoke exacerbates oral health issues, and recommendations for mitigating exposure in at-risk populations.

Background: To address health inequities, emergency physicians must understand the structural underpinnings of health disparities, including social determinants of health (SDoH), and must critically reflect on the integration of SDoH into clinical practice. SDoH education should include reflective knowledge acquisition, while incorporating systemic sociohistorical forces and individual factors, such as bias, which propagate inequities but are rarely emphasized in graduate medical education (GME). The health humanities (HH), an inclusive transdisciplinary field combining arts, humanities, and social justice, may represent a novel unexplored approach toward incorporating SDoH in GME. Methods: We sought to implement and evaluate a GME HH‐based curriculum focused on SDoH. An interprofessional team applied Kern's framework to create a longitudinal HH curriculum integrating narrative medicine and visual thinking strategies with evidence‐based practices for addressing SDoH in clinical practice. This curriculum was implemented for 52 residents in an EM program in 2019–2020; sessions were initially held in the classroom and community and then virtually during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Objectives included encouraging (1) critical thinking about SDoH, (2) engagement with patients and communities, (3) self‐reflection, and (4) translation of SDoH to patient care. Descriptive statistics and a constructivist paradigm were applied to results of a postcurriculum survey and focus group, respectively. Results: A curriculum evaluation survey completed by 32/52 residents (61.5%) revealed agreement (75%–90%) that objectives were met. 93.1% of respondents thought humanities were important in residency training. Qualitative analysis of a focus group with 10 participants revealed additional impacts on individual growth, transformation of departmental culture, and transformation of patient care. Curriculum implementation was inexpensive and relied on interprofessional collaboration. Conclusions: The HH represent a promising collaborative framework for integrating SDoH in GME and may inspire transformation of learners' attitudes and practices in EM, though clinical impacts still need to be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluation of the clinical utility of a genetic diagnosis in CP remains limited. We aimed to characterize the clinical utility of a genetic diagnosis by exome sequencing (ES) in patients with CP and related motor disorders. Methods: We enrolled participants with CP and "CP masquerading" conditions in an institutional ES initiative. In those with genetic diagnoses who had clinical visits to discuss results, we retrospectively reviewed medical charts, evaluating recommendations based on the genetic diagnosis pertaining to medication intervention, surveillance initiation, variant‐specific testing, and patient education. Results: We included 30 individuals with a molecular diagnosis and clinical follow‐up. Nearly all (28 out of 30) had clinical impact resulting from the genetic diagnosis. Medication interventions included recommendation of mitochondrial multivitamin supplementation (6.67%, n = 2), ketogenic diet (3.33%, n = 1), and fasting avoidance (3.33%, n = 1). Surveillance‐related actions included recommendations for investigating systemic complications (40%, n = 12); referral to new specialists to screen for systemic manifestations (33%, n = 10); continued follow‐up with established specialists to focus on specific manifestations (16.67%, n = 5); referral to clinical genetics (16.67%, n = 5) to oversee surveillance recommendations. Variant‐specific actions included carrier testing (10%, n = 3) and testing of potentially affected relatives (3.33%, n = 1). Patient education‐specific actions included referral to experts in the genetic disorder (30%, n = 9); and counseling about possible changes in prognosis, including recognition of disease progression and early mortality (36.67%, n = 11). Interpretation: This study highlights the clinical utility of a genetic diagnosis for CP and "CP masquerading" conditions, evident by medication interventions, surveillance impact, family member testing, and patient education, including possible prognostic changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur‐containing classes of the scaffold "Arylthioindoles" have been evaluated for antibacterial activity; they demonstrated excellent potency against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) as well as against vancomycin‐resistant strains and a panel of clinical isolates of resistant strains. In this study, we have elucidated the mechanism of action of lead compounds, wherein they target the cell wall of S. aureus. Further, S. aureus failed to develop resistance against two lead compounds tested in a serial passage experiment in the presence of the compounds over a period of 40 days. Both the compounds demonstrated comparable in vivo efficacy with vancomycin in a neutropenic mice thigh infection model. The results of these antibacterial activities emphasize the excellent potential of thioethers for developing novel antibiotics and may fill in as a target for the adjustment of accessible molecules to develop new powerful antibacterial agents with fewer side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]