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Hypertension is a leading contributor to mortality in low‐middle income countries including Haiti, yet only 13% achieve blood pressure (BP) control. We evaluated the effectiveness of a community‐based hypertension management program delivered by community health workers (CHWs) and physicians among 100 adults with uncontrolled hypertension from the Haiti Cardiovascular Disease Cohort. The 12‐month intervention included: community follow‐up visits with CHWs (1 month if BP uncontrolled ≥140/90, 3 months otherwise) for BP measurement, lifestyle counseling, medication delivery, and dose adjustments. Primary outcome was mean change in systolic BP from enrollment to 12 months. Secondary outcomes were mean change in diastolic BP, BP control, acceptability, feasibility, and adverse events. We compared outcomes to 100 age, sex, and baseline BP matched controls with standard of care: clinic follow‐up visits with physicians every 3 months. We also conducted qualitative interviews with participants and providers. Among 200 adults, median age was 59 years, 59% were female. Baseline mean BP was 154/89 mmHg intervention versus 153/88 mmHg control. At 12 months, the difference in SBP change between groups was −12.8 mmHg (95%CI −6.9, −18.7) and for DBP −7.1 mmHg (95%CI −3.3, −11.0). BP control increased from 0% to 58.1% in intervention, and 28.4% in control group. Four participants reported mild adverse events. In mixed methods analysis, we found community‐based delivery addressed multiple participant barriers to care, and task‐shifting with strong teamwork enhanced medication adherence. Community‐based hypertension management using task‐shifting with CHWs and community‐based care was acceptable, and effective in reducing SBP, DBP, and increasing BP control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the influence of environmental factors and printing orientation on the aging of additive manufactured polyamide 12 (PA12). A multifactorial experimental design was employed to age specimens under controlled conditions. Analysis of variance revealed that temperature, irradiance, relative humidity, and time significantly impact the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and Young's modulus (Y) of PA12. Applying multiple linear regression methods produced predictive models with R2 values of 0.9075 for the UTS and 0.5226 for the Y, indicating substantial explanatory power for the specimen's UTS. These models enhance understanding of PA12 aging, aiding in the design of more durable mechanical parts for applications exposed to environmental conditions, such as footwear, automotive components, and medical devices. As next steps, future research could empirically deploy these developed predictive models and explore longer time scales to further elucidate the long‐term aging behavior of additively manufactured PA12. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Takagi–Taupin equations are solved in their simplest form (zero deformation) to obtain the Bragg‐diffracted and transmitted complex amplitudes. The case of plane‐parallel crystal plates is discussed using a matrix model. The equations are implemented in an open‐source Python library crystalpy adapted for numerical applications such as crystal reflectivity calculations and ray tracing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conic sections are commonly used in reflective X‐ray optics. Hyperbolic mirrors can focus a converging light source and are frequently paired with elliptical or parabolic mirrors in Wolter type configurations. This paper derives the closed‐form expression for a mirror‐centered hyperbolic shape, with zero‐slope at the origin. Combined with the slope and curvature, such an expression facilitates metrology, manufacturing and mirror‐bending calculations. Previous works consider ellipses, parabolas, magnifying hyperbolas or employ lengthy approximations. Here, the exact shape function is given in terms of the mirror incidence angle and the source and image distances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infectivity data were reviewed and the 50% infectious dose (ID50) was reassessed in different HBsAg‐positive infection stages enabling modelling of transfusion‐transmitted (TT)‐HBV infection risk if HBsAg donor screening was replaced by individual donation nucleic acid amplification technology (ID‐NAT). Quantitative HBsAg and HBV‐DNA assays were performed against international standards to compare the ratio between potential infectious HBV virions and subviral HBsAg particles in Egyptian HBsAg‐positive blood donors as well as in Japanese chimpanzee samples of known infectivity. HBV‐DNA load below the quantification limit of detection was estimated against a reference standard by replicate NAT testing (n = 25). Infectivity of chimpanzee samples collected during ramp‐up and declining viremic phase were tested in a human liver chimeric mice (HLCM) model and compared with published infectivity data from different HBsAg‐positive infection stages. Lowest estimates of ID50 in HBsAg‐positive plasma were 3–6 HBV virions in chimpanzee studies. Infectivity decreased approximately 10‐100‐fold in the declining viremic phase using HLCM. In acute phase samples, HBV to HBsAg particle ratios varied between 1:102–104 but in HBsAg‐positive blood donors this particle ratio reached 1:106–1012 when viral load was below 100 HBV‐DNA copies/mL. Modelled TT‐HBV risk of an HBsAg‐positive/ID‐NAT nonreactive blood transfusion was estimated at 5.5%–27% for components containing 20–200 mL of plasma when assuming an ID50 of 316 (point estimate between 100 and 1000) virions. It cannot be ensured that discontinuation of HBsAg donor screening and reliance on ID‐NAT alone is safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Renal dysfunction is a common complication of cirrhosis, occurring either as part of multiorgan involvement in acute illness or secondary to advanced liver disease. To date, no study has comprehensively assessed multiple renal function parameters in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis through a multiparametric analysis of renal biochemistry markers. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational study including all consecutive patients hospitalized with cirrhosis who underwent a 43‐multiparametric renal function assessment between January 1, 2021, and June 30, 2023. Results: All patients showed at least one of the following renal abnormalities: Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes stage G2 or higher, sodium and/or chloride excretion fraction <1%, electrolyte‐free water clearance <0.4 mL/min, or tubular maximum phosphate reabsorption capacity <0.8 mmol/L. The estimated glomerular filtration rate equations significantly overestimated the measured creatinine clearance with median differences of +14 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 6–29) and +9 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 2–15) for European Kidney Function Consortium equations, respectively. Notably, 54% and 39% of patients demonstrated estimated glomerular filtration rates exceeding 30% of the measured creatinine clearance when the Chronic Kidney Disease ‐ Epidemiology Collaboration and European Kidney Function Consortium formulas were employed, respectively. Substantial discrepancies in Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes stage assignments were observed between the estimated glomerular filtration rate‐ and measured creatinine clearance‐based assessments. Conclusions: This study underscores the value of a multiparametric renal function assessment as a routine tool for evaluating renal function in patients with cirrhosis. A high prevalence of medically actionable renal abnormalities spanning multiple renal function modules, including alterations in glomerular function, salt and solute‐free water excretion, and proximal tubule phosphate reabsorption, has been demonstrated in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Methods Results Interpretation Recombinant monoclonal therapeutic antibodies like lecanemab, which target amyloid beta in Alzheimer's disease, offer a promising approach for modifying the disease progression. Due to its relatively short half‐life, lecanemab administered as a bi‐monthly infusion (typically 10 mg/kg) has a relatively brief half‐life. Interaction with abundant plasma proteins binder in the bloodstream can affect pharmacokinetics of drugs, including their half‐life. In this study, we investigated potential plasma protein binding (PPB) interaction to lecanemab using lecanemab biosimilar.Lecanemab biosimilar used in this study was based on publicly available sequences. ELISA and western blotting were used to assess lecanemab biosimilar immunoreactivity in the fractions of human plasma obtained through size exclusion chromatography. The binding of lecanemab biosimilar to candidate plasma binders was confirmed by western blotting, ELISA, and surface plasmon resonance analysis.Using a combination of equilibrium dialysis, ELISA, and western blotting in human plasma, we first describe the presence of likely PPB partners to lecanemab biosimilar and then identify fibrinogen as one of them. Utilizing surface plasmon resonance, we confirmed that lecanemab biosimilar does bind to fibrinogen, although with lower affinity than to monomeric amyloid beta.In the context of lecanemab therapy, these results imply that fibrinogen levels could impact the levels of free antibodies in the bloodstream and that fibrinogen might serve as a reservoir for lecanemab. More broadly, these results indicate that PPB may be an important consideration when clinically utilizing therapeutic antibodies in neurodegenerative disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of infrared difference spectroscopy provides unprecedented insights on structures of complex molecules like metalloproteins. However, the relevant information can be hard to find among the many bands of the vibrational spectra. The ab initio modeling is very helpful to assign the frequencies to vibrational modes but it is a challenge to process the huge quantity of data into descriptors useful for experimentalists. To this end, we developed a new tool called VIBMOL allowing to analyze vibrational modes of molecules from hessian matrices calculated with common quantum chemistry codes. VIBMOL program runs on Unix machines. Through a new graphical interface, the users can calculate the normal modes of molecules, visualize them, simulate infrared spectra, and explore the Potential Energy Distribution of normal modes among any set of vibration coordinates. It is combined with an interface program (gosdmu) formatting relevant data from the GAUSSIAN program. VIBMOL code is available upon request to the authors. A discussion is provided to help the readers to choose between a large choice of different software and it shows how VIBMOL can make the IR assignment easier in the context of collaborations with experimentalists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbon sink in pantropical biomes play a crucial role in modulating the inter‐annual variations of global terrestrial carbon balance and is threatened by extreme climate events. However, it has not been carefully examined whether an increase in tropical gross primary productivity (GPP) can compensate the decrease during precipitation anomalies. Using the asymmetry index (AI) and multiple GPP products, we assessed responses of pantropical GPP to precipitation anomalies during 2001–2022. Positive AI indicates that GPP increases are greater than GPP decreases during precipitation anomalies, and vice versa. Our results showed an average negative pantropical GPP asymmetry, that is, GPP decreases exceeded the GPP increases during precipitation anomalies. In addition, a positive AI was found in tropical hyper‐arid and arid regions, which is opposite to the negative AI observed in tropical semi‐arid, sub‐humid, and humid regions. This suggest that tropical GPP asymmetry changes from positive to negative as the moisture increases. Notably, a significant decreasing trend of negative AI was observed over the entire tropical region, indicating that the negative effect of inter‐annual precipitation variations on pantropical vegetation productivity has enhanced. Considering the model predicted increasing climate variability and extremes, the negative impact of precipitation variability on tropical carbon cycle may continue to intensify. Lastly, the divergence in AI estimates among multiple GPP products highlight the need to further improve our understanding of the response of tropical carbon cycle to climate changes, especially for the tropical humid regions. Plain Language Summary: Tropical biomes play an essential role in controlling the global carbon balance but has been threatened by extreme climate events recently. Whether the increase in tropical GPP can compensate the GPP decrease during precipitation anomalies is still poorly known. In this study, we found an average negative asymmetric GPP response to precipitation anomalies over the entire tropics during 2001–2022, that is, GPP decreases exceeded the GPP increases during precipitation anomalies. Meanwhile, we found that the tropical GPP was shifted from positive asymmetry to negative asymmetry as the moisture increases. Besides, a significantly decreasing trend of GPP asymmetry was observed over the study period, suggesting that the negative effect of inter‐annual precipitation variations on pantropical GPP has intensified. Key Points: We find the tropical GPP shows a negative asymmetric response to precipitation anomalies over the past two decadesAn overall decreasing trend of the GPP asymmetry was observed over the entire tropical regionAnisohydric biomes have a stronger positive asymmetric response of GPP to precipitation anomalies than isohydric biomes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Socioeconomic status (SES) is a driver of health disparities and chronic diseases. People with HIV (PWH) are at risk for chronic liver diseases. We evaluated the association between low SES and hepatic outcomes in PWH. Methods: We included PWH from a prospective cohort. SES was assessed by the Pampalon material and social deprivation index to classify the cohort into quintiles of deprivation. Multivariable linear regression was used to investigate associations of material and social deprivation with liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) as markers of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis, respectively. Incidence of outcomes was evaluated through survival analysis. Results: Among the 804 PWH included, 45% and 72% were living in areas of the highest material and social deprivation, respectively. Materially deprived PWH were more frequently female and of non‐white ethnicity and had higher prevalence of metabolic comorbidities. After adjustments, material deprivation correlated with increased LSM (β = 1.86, 95% CI 0.53–3.17) but not with CAP (β = 6.47, 95% CI −5.55–18.49). Patients were observed for a median follow‐up of 3.8 years. Incidence of liver‐related events was higher in most materially deprived compared to most privileged PWH (hazard ratio 3.03, 95% CI 1.03–8.92), while there was no difference in extrahepatic outcomes or all‐cause mortality. Social deprivation showed no association with either LSM or clinical outcomes. Conclusions: Living in materially deprived neighbourhoods as a proxy for lower SES, is associated with LSM and liver‐related events in PWH. Future strategies should explore mechanisms underlying these relationships and whether enhanced material security improves hepatic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manufacturing aqueous batteries based on the magnesium cations is an important step towards more sustainable and safer energy storage solutions. Thus, it is important to understand how these systems age and which species are formed throughout numerous charge/discharge cycles. To this end, we have used radiolysis to induce accelerated ageing in concentrated aqueous solutions of magnesium bistriflimide Mg(TFSI)2 (also called "water‐in‐salt electrolytes" or WISEs). We demonstrate in this work that the degradation products formed, whether in the gas or liquid phase, are very similar to those formed in concentrated LiTFSI aqueous solutions. In fact, the behavior under ionizing radiation is driven by the anion/water molar ratio regardless of whether the cation is Li+ or Mg2+. This is because both cations are non‐reactive, and the bond strengths in the TFSI− anion do not vary with the nature of the cation. Reaction mechanisms are proposed to explain the formation of several species under ionizing radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fjord systems in the Norwegian Arctic are experiencing an increasing frequency and magnitude of marine heatwaves. These episodic heat stress events can have varying degrees of acute impacts on primary production and nutrient uptake of mixed kelp communities, as well as modifying the biogeochemical cycling in nearshore systems where vast areas of kelp create structural habitat. To assess the impact of future marine heatwaves on kelp communities, we conducted a 23 day mesocosm experiment exposing mixed kelp communities to warming and heatwave scenarios projected for the year 2100. Three treatments were considered: a constant warming (+1.8°C from the control), a medium magnitude and long duration heatwave event (+2.8°C from the control for 13 days), and two short‐term, more intense, heatwaves(5 day long scenarios with temperature peaks at +3.9°C from the control). The results show that both marine heatwave treatments reduced net community production, whereas the constant warm temperature treatment displayed no difference from the control. The long marine heatwave scenario resulted in reduced accumulated net community production, indicating that prolonged exposure had a greater severity than two high magnitude, short‐term heatwave events. We estimated an 11°C temperature threshold at which negative effects to primary production appeared present. We highlight that marine heatwaves can induce sublethal effects on kelp communities by depressing net community production. These results are placed in the context of potential physiological resilience of kelp communities and implications of reduced net community production to future Arctic fjord environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a complex lung disease associated with significant morbidity. The ABPA Working Group (AWG) of the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology (ISHAM) revised their management guidelines in 2024, but there is currently no standardised tool to assess adherence to these recommendations. Methods: We extracted key recommendations from the updated 2024 ISHAM‐AWG guidelines, focusing on critical areas: screening and diagnosis of ABPA, managing acute and treatment‐dependent ABPA, and monitoring treatment response. Each item was assigned a score ranging from zero to three. We assigned negative scores to interventions not recommended by the guidelines. Results: We identified 38 items indicative of optimal clinical care for patients with ABPA. The score for screening asthmatics for ABPA was set at three points. For diagnosing ABPA, 16 items were included, with a score ranging from 12 to 16 points, depending on the specific components used (predisposing conditions, serum A. fumigatus‐specific IgE and IgG, serum total IgE, blood eosinophil count and chest computed tomography). The management of acute ABPA comprised 11 items, with a maximum score of three points. For treatment‐dependent ABPA, there were nine items (scores ranging from −3 to 6). Follow‐up care comprised 10 items with a maximum score of 10–13 points, covering imaging, spirometry, testing serum total IgE levels and therapeutic drug monitoring. Conclusions: The EQUAL ABPA score has been developed as a comprehensive tool to quantify guideline adherence. Future studies will evaluate to which extent guideline adherence is associated with improved clinical outcomes for patients with ABPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Northwest Africa (NWA) 14672, the most highly shocked Martian meteorite so far, has experienced >50% melting, compatible with peak pressure >~65 Gpa, at a transition stage 6/7. Despite these extreme shock conditions, the meteorite still preserves a population of "large" Fe sulfide blebs from the pre‐shock igneous assemblage. These primary blebs preserve characteristics of basaltic shergottites in term of modal abundance, preferential occurrence in interstitial pores along with late‐crystallized phases (ilmenite, merrillite), and Ni‐free pyrrhotite compositions. Primary sulfides underwent widespread shock‐induced remelting, as indicated by perfect spherical morphologies when embedded in fine‐grained silicate melt zones and a wealth of mineral/glass/vesicle inclusions. Extensive melting of Fe‐sulfides is consistent with the decompression path experienced by NWA 14672 after the peak shock pressure at ~70 GPa. Primary sulfides acted as preferential sites for nucleation of vesicles of all sizes which helped sulfur degassing during decompression, leading to partial resorption of Fe‐sulfide blebs and reequilibration of pyrrhotite metal/sulfur ratios (0.96–0.98) toward the low oxygen fugacity conditions indicated by Fe‐Ti oxides hosted in fine‐grained materials. The extreme shock intensity also provided suitable conditions for widespread in situ redistribution of igneous sulfur as micrometric globules concentrated in glassy portions of fine‐grained lithologies. These globules exsolved early on quenching, allowing dendritic skeletal Fe‐Ti oxide overgrowths to nucleate on sulfides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1997, Canada reformed its system of voter registration, adopting a permanent voters list. Existing accounts fail to adequately account for the political dynamics motivating the Chrétien government's decision to adopt a register. After decades of development in policy circles, a register was championed by policy entrepreneurs as a solution to growing problems with the enumeration system. Drawing on data from the parliamentary record, and the first‐hand experience of an Elections Canada official, this article argues that the pivotal factor in winning political support for the adoption of a register was the shortened electoral calendar it enabled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria are vital for most cells' functions. Viruses hijack mitochondria machinery for misappropriation of energy supply or to bypass defense mechanisms. Many of these mitochondrial dysfunctions persist after recovery from treated or untreated viral infections, particularly when mitochondrial DNA is permanently damaged. Quantitative defects and structural rearrangements of mitochondrial DNA accumulate in post‐mitotic tissues as recently reported long after SARS‐CoV‐2 or HIV infection, or following antiviral therapy. These observations are consistent with the "hit‐and‐run" concept proposed decades ago to explain viro‐induced cell transformation and it could apply to delayed post‐viral onsets of symptoms and advocate for complementary supportive care. Thus, according to this concept, following exposure to viruses or antiviral agents, mitochondrial damage could evolve into an autonomous clinical condition. It also establishes a pathogenic link between communicable and non‐communicable chronic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dystonia, typically characterized by slow repetitive involuntary movements, stiff abnormal postures, and hypertonia, is common among individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). Dystonia can interfere with activities and have considerable impact on motor function, pain/comfort, and ease of caregiving. Although pharmacological and neurosurgical approaches are used clinically in individuals with CP and dystonia that is causing interference, evidence to support these options is limited. This clinical practice guideline update comprises 10 evidence‐based recommendations on the use of pharmacological and neurosurgical interventions for individuals with CP and dystonia causing interference, developed by an international expert panel following the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. The recommendations are intended to help inform clinicians in their use of these management options for individuals with CP and dystonia, and to guide a shared decision‐making process in selecting a management approach that is aligned with the individual's and the family's values and preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood stunting is a serious public health concern in Rwanda. Although stunting causes have been documented, we still lack a more in‐depth understanding of their local factors at a more detailed geographic level. We cross‐sectionally examined 615 height‐for‐age prevalence observations in the Northern Province of Rwanda, linked with their related covariates, to explore the spatial heterogeneity in the low height‐for‐age prevalence by fitting linear and non‐linear spatial regression models and explainable machine learning. Specifically, complemented with generalized additive models, we fitted the ordinary least squares (OLS), a standard geographically weighted regression (GWR), and multiscale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) models to characterize the imbalanced distribution of stunting risk factors and uncover the nonlinear effect of significant predictors, explaining the height‐for‐age variations. The results reveal that 27% of the children measured were stunted, and that likelihood was found to be higher in the districts of Musanze, Gakenke, and Gicumbi. The local MGWR model outperformed the ordinary GWR and OLS, with coefficients of determination of 0.89, 0.84, and 0.25, respectively. At specific ranges, the study shows that height‐for‐age decreases with an increase in the number of days a child was left alone, elevation, and rainfall. In contrast, land surface temperature is positively associated with height‐for‐age. However, variables like the normalized difference vegetation index, slope, soil fertility, and urbanicity exhibited bell‐shaped and U‐shaped non‐linear associations with the height‐for‐age prevalence. Identifying areas with the highest rates of stunting will help determine the most effective measures for reducing the burden of undernutrition. Plain Language Summary: Local variations exist between height‐for‐age prevalence and its related risk factors. Global spatial regression methods, therefore, make it more difficult to locally revisit ongoing strategies and nutrition initiatives, particularly in areas where the burden of stunting was shown to be substantially higher. The main contribution of the present study lies in employing household‐level information aggregated at a fine scale to model stunting using a local multiscale geographically weighted regression with generalized additive model (GAM) as interpretable machine learning to bridge traditional global linear models' gaps. Locally geographically weighted regressions assessed the spatial effects, and GAMs characterized the nonlinear effect of relevant height‐for‐age risk factors to potentially satisfy the needs of all end users. These findings revealed that low height‐for‐age has significant intra‐area local variation and uncovered positive, negative, bell‐shaped, and U‐shaped non‐linear associations between height‐for‐age and its related risk factors. The generated spatial maps highlight areas with a high prevalence of stunting, which can help the government and donor organizations allocate resources efficiently. Key Points: Low height‐for‐age has significant intra‐area local variationThe adopted approach showed superiority in characterizing the spatial effects and nonlinear effects of relevant height‐for‐age risk factorsThe results uncovered positive, negative, bell‐shaped, and U‐shaped non‐linear associations between height‐for‐age and its related risk factors [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, high‐resistivity silicon substrates with specific He+ ion implantations to mitigate the parasitic surface conduction effect are studied. Several postimplantation thermal annealing conditions are investigated. Substrate performance is assessed at radiofrequencies (RFs) using the small‐signal characterization of coplanar waveguides (CPW) structures. The best effective resistivity (ρeff) of 4 kΩ cm is achieved with the wafer annealed at 600 °C for 2 h. This ρeff value is also stable as a function of DC bias applied to the CPWs. Those high RF performances originate from the nature of the defects created by ion implantation. Defects are deeply analyzed using spectroscopy measurement and scanning transmission electron microscopy. Combining these measurements, it is shown that {311} defects are probably responsible for the achieved high RF performances. Finally, the link between charge carriers trapping in the RF domain and defects nature is discussed to develop a defects engineering strategy for low‐loss RF substrates. The proposed fabrication method enables the fabrication of RF passivation layer locally over the wafer, and thus the cointegration of RF devices with fully depleted silicon‐on‐insulator technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Obstetric hemorrhage remains a largely preventable cause of maternal mortality globally. The contribution of uterine atony to hemorrhage‐related maternal mortality has decreased in France, while the contribution of other causes of obstetric hemorrhage such as surgical injury during cesarean has been reported to increase. However, little evidence exists regarding the risk factors and care processes of women who died from this cause of hemorrhage. Therefore, we aimed to describe the clinical profile, underlying mechanisms, and preventability factors among women who died from obstetric hemorrhage by surgical injury during cesarean section. Material and Methods: Nationwide analysis of all hemorrhage‐related maternal deaths by surgical injury during cesarean in France identified by the nationwide permanent enhanced maternal mortality surveillance system (ENCMM) between 2007 and 2018. We described the characteristics of the women, delivery hospitals, circumstances of hemorrhage, features of obstetric and resuscitation/transfusion care, and main preventability factors. Results: Between 2007 and 2018, hemorrhage‐related maternal mortality in France decreased from 1.6/100 000 live births (95% CI 1.1–2.2) (39/2 472 650) in 2007–2009 to 0.8/100 000 live births (95% CI 0.5–1.3) (19/2 311 783) in 2016–2018. Hemorrhage‐related maternal mortality ratio due to surgical injury during cesarean increased from 0.08 (95% CI 0.01–0.3) (2/2 472 650) to 0.2 (95% CI 0.07–0.5) (5/2 311 783) per 100 000 live births. Among the 18 women who died from surgical injury during cesarean over the 12‐year study period, we report a high prevalence of obesity (67%, 12/18), previous cesarean (72%, 13/18), and second‐stage cesareans (56%, 10/18). In 22% (4/18), cesarean section was performed in a hospital providing <1000 births annually, with no blood bank (39%, 7/18) or no adult intensive care (44%, 8/18) on‐site. Overall preventability of deaths was 94% (17/18). Main preventability factors were related to delay in hemorrhage diagnosis (77%, 14/18) due to late recognition of abnormal parameters (33%, 6/18) and late bedside ultrasound (56%, 10/18), and delay in management due to insufficient surgical skills (56%, 10/18). Conclusions: In France, surgical injury during cesarean section is an increasing, largely preventable contributor to hemorrhage‐related maternal mortality, as other causes of fatal hemorrhage have become less frequent. The profile of these women showed a high prevalence of obesity, previous cesarean, second‐stage cesarean, and delivery in hospitals with limited medical and surgical resources, which suggests explanatory mechanisms for the fatal outcome and opportunities for prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We show root‐T consistency of the smoothed AIC and smoothed BIC model averaging estimators (sAIC, sBIC) of impulse response coefficients in stationary vector autoregressive models of finite lag order. We also show that there is not one unique way to define the sAIC and sBIC estimators, but that instead there is a whole class of each of these defined by a weight scaling factor that allows the averaging estimator to become more similar to either its model selection counterpart or the equal weights averaging estimator. We also show asymptotic validity of a bootstrap method for estimating the averaging estimators' distributions. Simulations illustrate the benefits of using sAIC instead of AIC estimators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Sysmex XN‐V is derived from the new Sysmex XN series of human hematology analyzers. The main changes from the previously validated XT‐2000iV analyzer include an optic‐fluorescent analysis for platelets and a nucleated red blood cell (NRBC) count. Objective: We aimed to validate the Sysmex XN‐V for feline blood following the American College for Veterinary Clinical Pathology and International Council for Standardization in Hematology recommendations. Methods: Feline EDTA blood specimens were analyzed on the Sysmex XN‐V to evaluate repeatability, linearity, comparison with the XT‐2000iV analyzer and manual methods, stability, and to verify the previously established Sysmex XT‐2000iV RIs. Results: Repeatability was excellent for most variables. Visually determined linearity was excellent or good for most variables except eosinophils and platelet variables. The correlation between the XN‐V and XT‐2000iV analyzers was good (≥0.82) for all variables except reticulocyte indices. Correlations between the Sysmex XN‐V and manual differential counts were good to excellent for most variables, acceptable for neutrophils, and fair for monocytes and NRBC. The previously established Sysmex XT‐2000iV RIs can be used to interpret results from the Sysmex XN‐V analyzer for most variables except red cell distribution width and reticulocyte variables. The RI for platelet variables could not be evaluated because of platelet clumps. Changes in the Sysmex XN‐V measurements after storage at 4 and 24°C were similar to those described for the Sysmex XT‐2000iV analyzer. Conclusions: The performance of the Sysmex XN‐V analyzer was good and compared favorably with the Sysmex XT‐2000iV analyzer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: 3D printing processes can be used to manufacture custom‐made mouthguards for sports activities. Few studies have compared the impact performance of industrial‐created mouthguards with that of custom‐made mouthguards manufactured by thermoforming or 3D printing. The objective of this in vitro study was to compare the shock absorption capacities of custom‐made mouthguards manufactured by 3D printing with industrial mouthguards and thermoformed ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) mouthguards. Materials and Methods: For each type of mouthguard, eight samples were produced. 3D‐printed mouthguards were manufactured using digital light processing technology. Each mouthguard was subjected to an impact performance test defined by the standard AFNOR XP S72‐427, which evaluate maximum deceleration and force transmitted during impact. The thickness of each mouthguard before and after a series of five impacts was measured at the impacted inter‐incisal area. Results: The mean maximum decelerations during impact ranged from 129 to 189 g for industrial mouthguards, 287 to 425 g for thermoformed EVA mouthguards, and 277 to 302 g for 3D‐printed mouthguards. The mean reduction in mouthguard thickness at the impact zone after five tests was 1.2 mm for industrial mouthguards, 0.6 mm for 3D‐printed mouthguards, and 2.2 mm for thermoformed EVA mouthguards. Conclusions: Custom‐made 3D printed mouthguards showed slightly better shock absorption ability than thermoformed mouthguards with respect to the indicator proposed in XP S72‐427. They seemed to combine the practical advantages of thermoformed mouthguards in sports with better shock absorption capacity and lower cost. Furthermore, they had the least thickness variation during the test, and their shock absorption capacity was the least affected by repeated mechanical tests. Other types of 3D‐printing resin materials that will become available must continue to be tested for shock absorption to provide the best protection to users at low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protonated and methylated bis‐acridinium tweezers built around a 2,6‐diphenylpyridyl and an electron enriched 2,6‐di(p‐anisyl)pyridyl spacer have been synthesized. These tweezers can self‐assemble in their corresponding homodimers and the associated thermodynamic parameters have been probed in organic solvents. The switching properties of the tweezers have been exploited in biphasic transfer experiments showing the shift of the equilibria towards the homodimers. Moreover, the thermodynamic parameters of the formation of the reduced methylated homodimers investigated by electrochemical experiments revealed the dissociation of the dimers. Thus, in addition to solvent and temperature, the pH and redox responsiveness of the acridinium units of the tweezers make it possible to modulate to a larger extent the monomer‐dimer equilibria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose/objectives: Treating intraosseous lesions (IOLs) and interradicular bone lesions (IRLs) is an extremely technical dental procedure in periodontics. Instrumentation of these lesions is often perceived as difficult by students and inexperienced dentists before they perform a certain number of procedures on patients in the clinic. The aim of this article is to evaluate a cost‐effective three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed educational simulator for the periodontal treatment of IOLs/IRLs (including scaling, incisions and sutures). Methods: The simulators were first developed digitally, and then manufactured using printable resins and specific materials; finally, they were assembled using different bonding systems. To evaluate the simulators, assessments were gathered from two target populations: undergraduate students and periodontics experts. These individuals tested the simulator and completed a cross‐sectional questionnaire based on a Likert scale with comparative and pedagogical items scored from one to five. The purpose of the questionnaire was to compare our simulator to clinical reality (i.e., operation on human jaws) and to an animal simulator (i.e., simulation of porcine jaws). The results are expressed as the mean and standard deviation and were statistically analyzed with the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test. Results: Overall, the results were satisfactory for both groups of testers (4.70 and 4.61 out of five for students and experts, respectively, for global satisfaction). Conclusions: The overall educational relevance of the simulator designed herein highlights the fact that 3D‐printed educational simulators could enable efficient cognitive‐functional learning for clinical IOL/IRL treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patch testing is the only clinically applicable diagnostic method for Type IV allergy. The availability of Type IV patch test (PT) allergens in Europe, however, is currently scarce. This severely compromises adequate diagnostics of contact allergy, leading to serious consequences for the affected patients. Against this background, the European Society of Contact Dermatitis (ESCD) has created a task force (TF) (i) to explore the current availability of PT substances in different member states, (ii) to highlight some of the unique characteristics of Type IV vs. other allergens and (iii) to suggest ways forward to promote and ensure availability of high‐quality patch testing substances for the diagnosis of Type IV allergies throughout Europe. The suggestions of the TF on how to improve the availability of PT allergens are supported by the ESCD, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, and the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology and intend to provide potential means to resolve the present medical crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Society for Craniofacial Genetics and Developmental Biology (SCGDB) held its 46th Annual Meeting at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio on October 10th–12th, 2023. On the first day of the meeting, Drs. Sally Moody and Justin Cotney were each honored with the SCGDB Distinguished Scientist Awards for their exceptional contributions to the field of craniofacial biology. The following two days of the meeting featured five sessions that highlighted new discoveries in signaling and genomic mechanisms regulating craniofacial development, human genetics, translational and regenerative approaches, and clinical management of craniofacial differences. Interactive workshops on spatial transcriptomics and scientific communication, as well as a poster session facilitated meaningful interactions among the 122 attendees representing diverse career stages and research backgrounds in developmental biology and genetics, strengthened the SCGDB community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The neutralization of organophosphorous (OP) chemical agents used in modern warfare is a growing concern due to their extreme toxicity to human cells. In several previous works, although the capability of several Zr‐MOF‐based catalysts has been showcased to facilitate hydrolysis of OP agents in heterogeneous pathways, their usage appeared to be limited by very slow kinetics at neutral pH. There is still a lack of MOF based catalysts that can detoxify OPs at physiological pH. The recycling ability of MOF‐based catalysts has also not been greatly explored. Thus, herein, we explored a Zr‐based MOF, MOF‐801(Zr) for the detoxification of a series of OP nerve agents and a pesticide with simultaneous adsorption and degradation at pH 7.5 in a buffer solution, close to physiological conditions. This MOF‐based catalyst demonstrates significant hydrolysis activity towards several nerve agents, with up to 99 % conversion within 2 h and an excellent half‐life of less than 5 minutes. In addition, it can be recycled at least 5 times consecutively with a residual activity of at least 90 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spectacular visual displays from the aurora come from curtains of excited atoms and molecules, impacted by energetic charged particles. These particles are accelerated from great distances in Earth's magnetotail, causing them to precipitate into the ionosphere. Energetic particle precipitation is associated with currents that generate electric fields, and the end result is a dissipation of the hundreds of gigawatts to terrawatts of energy injected into Earth's atmosphere during geomagnetic storms. While much is known about how the aurora dissipates energy through Joule heating, little is known about how it does so via small‐scale plasma turbulence. Here we show the first set of combined radar and optical images that track the position of this turbulence, relative to particle precipitation, with high spatial precision. During two geomagnetic storms occurring in 2021, we unambiguously show that small‐scale turbulence (several meters) is preferentially created on the edges of auroral forms. We find that turbulence appears both poleward and equatorward of auroral forms, as well as being nestled between auroral forms in the north‐south direction. These measurements make it clear that small scale auroral plasma turbulence is an integral part of the electrical current system created by the aurora, in the sense that turbulent transport around auroral forms enhances ionospheric energy deposition through Joule heating while at the same time reducing the average strength of the electric field. Plain Language Summary: The aurora continuous to amaze the inhabitants and travelers of Earth's polar regions. Bright shifting folds of light extend down from the nightsky, appearing as green, red, or faint‐blue curtains. During geomagnetic storms the are particularly bright and dynamic, often visible in large parts of the inhabited globe. However, far from being simple displays of light, the aurora can wreak havoc on the thin gas of Earth's upper atmosphere. There, gigantic swirls of electric turbulence are excited in response to the energy that is being pumped into the atmosphere by the aurora. This plasma turbulence is detrimental to satellite communication, such as the principle operation of the GPS network, and future efforts are sorely needed to understand the when and how this turbulence appears. We present a series of photographical and radar‐based images of the aurora and its plasma turbulence, shedding light on the complex relationship between the two phenomena. The images and videos we present are accessible and interesting to a public readership. Key Points: Small‐scale auroral plasma turbulence is created preferably outside of but not far from optical auroral formsTurbulence appears both poleward and equatorward of auroral arcsStrong electric fields that trigger meter‐size E region turbulence are sometimes seen before the onset of optical aurora [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When charged particles are accelerated from Earth's magnetosphere and precipitate into the atmosphere, their impact with neutral gas creates the aurora. Structured electric fields drive the acceleration processes but they are also passed down to the ionosphere, meaning that turbulence can in part be embedded into the ionosphere rather than emerge through instability processes locally. Applying a point‐cloud analysis technique adapted from observational cosmology, we show how observed turbulence in the ionosphere matches electrical current signatures in the pulsating aurora in a series of conjunctions between space‐ and ground‐based instruments. We propose that the temporal spectrum of pulsations in the pulsating aurora is the driver of a clearly observed energy injection into the ionosphere's unstable bottomside. Precipitating electrons produce electric fields through charge deposition, and we observe wave characteristics that are present in this pattern. Next, the relative electron‐ion drifts excite the Farley‐Buneman instability, the distribution of whose waves are organized according to the local electric field. It is the temporal characteristics of chorus wave interactions in the magnetosphere that is imparted, via precipitating electrons, to the pulsating aurora, and so we propose that chorus wave interactions are capable of embedding turbulent structure into the ionosphere. This structure (now pressure gradients) dissipate energy in the E‐region through turbulent processes, observed by the icebear coherent scatter radar. Key Points: A study of multiple space‐ground conjunctions that occurred during a strong pulsating aurora eventThere were identical turbulent properties in in‐situ field‐structuring and in E‐region plasma turbulenceWe suggest that this structure is driven, or embedded, by electromagnetic waves, mediated by precipitating particles in the pulsating aurora [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The benefit of pedagogical escape rooms for dental students' stimulation, interest and knowledge strengthening has been suggested by several studies. However, in previous studies, only a few students were evaluated. This study aims to confirm the purpose of this innovative pedagogical tool in terms of learning consolidation and team building from students' perceptions. We directly incorporated an educational escape game into the fundamental academic formation as a practical‐work course for fifth‐year dental students. Materials and Methods: The present escape game focused on 3D printing, whose implementation fit the different steps of an escape game well. This study was conducted in March 2022. All fifth‐year dental students (n = 212) were divided into 5–6 student groups to match the conditions of an escape game. Before entering the room, each student had to complete a cross‐sectional knowledge true/false test of 8 questions to assess their general level. Additionally, an 18‐question appreciation survey was completed when leaving the room. Results: The students perceived the 3D‐printing escape game to be relevant and especially expressed the benefit of being part of a team to exchange and build knowledge. These results suggest knowledge strengthening. The instructional benefit of this process seemed to exceed its mere fun and appealing aspect. Conclusion: Our results with a large number of students showed that, from the students' perception, the educational escape game significantly improved knowledge and team‐building. It created a supportive learning environment and increased students' motivation. It can provide a fun and effective way to diversify instruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N,N‐dialkylbenzofuran‐ and N,N‐dialkylbenzothiophene‐2‐carboxamides were readily prepared from bare benzofuran and benzothiophene by deprotocupration followed by trapping with N,N‐dialkylcarbamoyl chlorides. They were reacted with 2‐benzofuryl‐ and 2‐benzothienyllithiums to form symmetrical and unsymmetrical diarylketones, or underwent deprotolithiation‐electrophilic trapping sequences at their 3 position. From 3‐iodinated derivatives, copper‐catalysed N‐arylation of azoles was performed, followed by lithium amide‐promoted cyclisation, to give 'tripentone' analogues. The diarylketones were also iodinated at their 3,3' positions and then engaged in the copper‐promoted double N‐arylation of anilines, giving rise to a family of original pentacyclic derivatives. A preliminary assessment of their electrochemical and biological properties was carried out, showing promising results against the proliferation of melanoma cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extreme dry and hot 2015/16 El Niño episode caused large losses in tropical live aboveground carbon (AGC) stocks. Followed by climatic conditions conducive to high vegetation productivity since 2016, tropical AGC are expected to recover from large losses during the El Niño episode; however, the recovery rate and its spatial distribution remain unknown. Here, we used low‐frequency microwave satellite data to track AGC changes, and showed that tropical AGC stocks returned to pre‐El Niño levels by the end of 2020, resulting in an AGC sink of 0.180.140.26$$ {0.18}_{0.14}^{0.26} $$ Pg C year−1 during 2014–2020. This sink was dominated by strong AGC increases (0.610.490.84$$ {0.61}_{0.49}^{0.84} $$ Pg C year−1) in non‐forest woody vegetation during 2016–2020, compensating the forest AGC losses attributed to the El Niño event, forest loss, and degradation. Our findings highlight that non‐forest woody vegetation is an increasingly important contributor to interannual to decadal variability in the global carbon cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although CI chondrites are susceptible to terrestrial weathering on Earth, the specific processes are unknown. To elucidate the weathering mechanism, we conduct a laboratory experiment using pristine particles from asteroid Ryugu. Air‐exposed particles predominantly develop small‐sized euhedral Ca‐S‐rich grains (0.5–1 μm) on the particle surface and along open cracks. Both transmission electron microscopy and synchrotron‐based computed tomography combined with XRD reveal that the grains are hydrous Ca‐sulfate. Notably, this phase does not form in vacuum‐ or nitrogen‐stored particles, suggesting this result is due to laboratory weathering. We also compare the Orgueil CI chondrite with the altered Ryugu particles. Due to the weathering of pyrrhotite and dolomite, Orgueil contains a significant amount of gypsum and ferrihydrite. We suggest that mineralogical changes due to terrestrial weathering of particles returned directly from asteroid occur even after a short‐time air exposure. Consequently, conducting prompt analyses and ensuring proper storage conditions are crucial, especially to preserve the primordial features of organics and volatiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ICH E14/S7B Q&As highlighted the need for best practices concerning the design, execution, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of the in vivo non‐rodent QT assay as a component of the integrated risk assessment to potentially support a TQT waiver or substitute. We conducted a dog telemetry study to assess the effects on QTc of six reference compounds (five positive and one negative) previously evaluated by Darpo et al. (2015) in humans. The sensitivity of the assay to detect QTc increases was determined, and exposure–response analysis was performed, as done in clinical practice. By‐timepoint analysis showed QTc prolongation induced by moxifloxacin, dofetilide, dolasetron, ondansetron, and quinine within human relevant plasma exposures ranges. Moreover, a hysteresis was observed for quinine. As expected, levocetirizine showed no statistically significant effect on QTc across a range of exposure, well exceeding the therapeutic Cmax. Power analyses confirmed the study ability to detect statistically significant QTc changes of less than 10 milliseconds with 80% probability, even with a sample size as low as n = 4 animals. Finally, concentration‐QTc modeling enabled to predict the minimal plasma concentration needed to detect a 10 milliseconds QTc prolongation, including for quinine. The comparison with clinical available data supported the relevance of dogs under these experimental conditions as a robust translational predictor of drug‐induced QTc prolongation in humans as a key pillar of the integrated risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium is a ubiquitous messenger that regulates a wide range of cellular functions, but its involvement in the pathophysiology of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is not widely investigated. Here, we identified, from an analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas and genotype‐tissue expression databases, stromal interaction molecule 2 (STIM2) as being highly expressed in AML with monocytic differentiation and negatively correlated with overall survival. This was confirmed on a validation cohort of 407 AML patients. We then investigated the role of STIM2 in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival in two leukemic cell lines with monocytic potential and in normal hematopoietic stem cells. STIM2 expression increased at the RNA and protein levels upon monocyte differentiation. Phenotypically, STIM2 knockdown drastically inhibited cell proliferation and induced genomic stress with DNA double‐strand breaks, as shown by increased levels of phosphorylate histone H2AXγ (p‐H2AXγ), followed by activation of the cellular tumor antigen p53 pathway, decreased expression of cell cycle regulators such as cyclin‐dependent kinase 1 (CDK1)–cyclin B1 and M‐phase inducer phosphatase 3 (CDC25c), and a decreased apoptosis threshold with a low antiapoptotic/proapoptotic protein ratio. Our study reports STIM2 as a new actor regulating genomic stability and p53 response in terms of cell cycle and apoptosis of human normal and malignant monocytic cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fleas in the genus Ctenocephalides serve as biological vectors or intermediate hosts of microorganisms such as bacteria, rickettsia, protozoa and helminths. Ctenocephalides felis has a worldwide distribution, while C. orientis has long been considered as a subspecies of C. felis in Asia. To help the morphological recognition of these two species and further explore their differences, we used the geometric morphometric approach applied to the head. Both sexes were examined. Five anatomical landmarks of the head were used, and to capture the curvature of the front head, 10 semilandmarks were added. There was a consistent difference in species classification accuracy when considering landmarks only versus their combination with semilandmarks, suggesting the importance of the curve of the head as a taxonomic signal. Using or not the labels in the reclassification analyses, the head shape allowed by itself almost perfect recognition of the two species, in both sexes, even after adjustment for prior probabilities. The same approach disclosed a high level of sexual size and shape dimorphism in both species. The contribution of size variation to the discrimination by shape was much more important between sexes (from 27% to 45%) than between species (from 0.7% to 7.1%). Nevertheless, in our data, size never could represent a way to reliably recognise the sex of an individual, even less its species. Geographical variation in head shape could only be explored for the C. orientis sample. No significant correlation of morphometric variation with geography could be detected, which would be consistent with gene flow between Thai provinces. The geometric morphometric approach of the flea head, when it incorporates head curves, is a promising tool for rapid, economical, and accurate species and sex identification. It is, therefore, a useful tool for future epidemiological and demographic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The current study determined the neurodevelopmental outcome of extremely preterm infants at 2 years of age. Methods: All live-born infants 23-27 weeks of gestation born between 2011 and 2020 in Austria were included in a prospective registry. Neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years of corrected age was assessed using Bayley Scales of Infant Development for both motor and cognitive scores, along with a neurological examination and an assessment of neurosensory function. Results: 2378 out of 2905 (81.9%) live-born infants survived to 2 years of corrected age. Follow-up data were available for 1488 children (62.6%). Overall, 43.0% had no, 35.0% mild and 22.0% moderate-to-severe impairment. The percentage of children with moderate-to-severe neurodevelopmental impairment decreased with increasing gestational age and was 31.4%, 30.5%, 23.3%, 19.0% and 16.5% at 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27 weeks gestational age (p < 0.001). Results did not change over the 10-year period. In multivariate analysis, neonatal complications as well as male sex were significantly associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental impairment. Conclusion: In this cohort study, a 22.0% rate of moderate-to-severe neurodevelopmental impairment was observed among children born extremely preterm. This national data is important for both counselling parents and guiding the allocation of health resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study focuses on the structural integrity analyses of a submersible cage with dimensions of 20 m in diameter and 10 m depth under extreme oceanographic conditions, including current speed of 0.5 and 1 m/s, combined with waves ranging from 2 to 5 m in height and a period of 7 s. Employing a dynamic simulation model based on finite elements, The study examines the stresses in the cage's pipes, as well as the tension in the bridle lines and mooring lines. Results indicate that submerging the cage leads to a reduction in peak tensions, with mooring lines experiencing a decrease of up to 32% and bridle lines experiencing a decrease of up to 59%. Furthermore, the stresses in the pipes exhibit a significant decline of up to 71.4%. These findings demonstrate that the submersible cage, when submerged, significantly reduces peak stresses, thereby decreasing the risk of structural loss or damage when the system is submerged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the impact of anti-IL-5 therapy on lung function in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma. The study found that patients who received anti-IL-5 biologics experienced a significant improvement in lung function, as measured by FEV1, after starting the treatment. However, the improvement was not observed in all patients, with some experiencing a continued decline in lung function. The study suggests that benralizumab may be more effective in improving lung function compared to other anti-IL-5 drugs, but further research is needed to confirm this. The authors conclude that patients who do not respond to anti-IL-5 therapy may benefit from switching to other biologics. [Extracted from the article]

The article in Global Change Biology critiques a study by Mason et al. on the climate benefits of saltmarsh restoration, arguing that their estimate of the global climate benefit is overstated. The authors highlight methodological issues in Mason et al.'s analysis, such as double-counting carbon and extrapolating short-term CO2 fluxes to annual rates. They suggest that the potential climate benefit of saltmarsh restoration is much lower than previously claimed, emphasizing the need for more accurate assessments and the importance of protecting salt marsh ecosystems for their environmental services. [Extracted from the article]

To expedite the valorisation of lignin as a sustainable component in materials applications, rapid and generally available analytical methods are essential to overcome the bottleneck of lignin characterisation. Where features of a lignin's chemical structure have previously been found to be predicted by Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression models built on Infrared (IR) data, we now show for the first time that this approach can be extended to prediction of the glass transition temperature (Tg), a key physicochemical property. This methodology is shown to be convenient and more robust for prediction of Tg than prediction through empirically derived relationships (e. g., Flory‐Fox). The chemometric analysis provided root mean squared errors of prediction (RMSEP) as low as 10.0 °C for a botanically, and a process‐diverse set of lignins, and 6.2 °C for kraft‐only samples. The PLS models could separately predict both the Tg as well as the degree of allylation (%allyl) for allylated lignin fractions, which were all derived from a single lignin source. The models performed exceptionally well, delivering RMSEP of 6.1 °C, and 5.4 %, respectively, despite the conflicting influences of increasing molecular weight and %allyl on Tg. Finally, the method provided accurate determinations of %allyl with RMSEP of 5.2 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism examined the impact of an automated insulin delivery system on diabetes distress and quality of life in individuals with type 1 diabetes. The study found that the use of the automated system was associated with a reduction in diabetes distress and an improvement in quality of life. However, a significant number of participants still experienced severe diabetes distress even after using the system for 6 months. Another study on the psychosocial impact of hybrid closed-loop systems in adults and adolescents with type 1 diabetes found that the use of these systems led to improvements in several psychosocial outcomes, including diabetes distress, fear of hypoglycemia, anxiety, stress, and physical activity levels. However, despite these improvements, a significant number of adults still experienced severe diabetes distress and reduced quality of life. The study suggests that additional psychotherapeutic approaches may be needed to address these unmet needs. The study also reported glucose control outcomes and device-related adverse events. [Extracted from the article]

An original series of bipyrimidine‐based chromophores featuring alkoxystyryl donor groups bearing short chiral (S)‐2‐methylbutyl chains in positions 4, 3,4 and 3,5, connected to electron‐accepting 2,2‐bipyrimidine rings, has been developed. Their linear and non‐linear optical properties were studied using a variety of techniques, including one‐ and two‐photon absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence measurements, as well as Hyper‐Rayleigh scattering to determine the first hyperpolarizabilities. Their electronic and geometrical properties were rationalized by TD‐DFT calculations. The thermal properties of the compounds were also investigated by a combination of polarized light optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry measurements and small‐angle X‐ray scattering experiments. The derivatives were found not to have mesomorphic properties, but to exhibit melting temperatures or cold crystallization behavior that enabled the isolation of well‐organized thin films. The nonlinear optical properties of amorphous or crystalline thin films were studied by wide‐field second harmonic generation and multiphoton fluorescence imaging, confirming that non‐centrosymmetric crystal organization enables strong second and third harmonic generation. This new series confirms that our strategy of functionalizing 3D organic octupoles with short chiral chains to generate non‐centrosymmetric organized thin films enables the development of highly second order nonlinear optical active materials without the use of corona‐poling or tedious deposition techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tiragolumab is a first‐in‐class, fully human IgG1/kappa anti‐TIGIT monoclonal antibody that blocks the binding of TIGIT to CD155 (the poliovirus receptor). We summarize the pharmacokinetics (PK) data from the phase 1a/1b GO30103 study of Q3W (every 3 weeks) sequential dosing of tiragolumab (2, 8, 30, 100, 400, 600, or 1200 mg) followed by atezolizumab (1200 mg), Q4W (every 4 weeks) sequential dosing (tiragolumab 840 mg followed by atezolizumab 1680 mg), and Q4W co‐infusion (tiragolumab 840 mg plus atezolizumab 1680 mg). Serum samples were collected at multiple time points following tiragolumab and atezolizumab intravenous infusion in patients with solid tumors for PK and immunogenicity assessment. The serum PK profile of tiragolumab appeared to be biphasic, with a rapid distribution phase followed by a slower elimination phase when administered alone or in combination with atezolizumab. In phase 1a, across doses of tiragolumab ranging from 2 to 1200 mg (cycle 1), the geometric mean (GM), coefficient of variation (CV%), serum tiragolumab Cmax ranged from 0.682 to 270 µg/mL (18.6% to 36.5%) and Cmin ranged from 0.0125 to 75.3 µg/mL (0.0% to 24.2%). The GM systemic exposure (area under the plasma drug concentration‐time curve, AUC0‐21) ranged from 310 to 2670 µg day/mL (20.5% to 27.0%); interindividual variability in AUC0‐21 ranged from 20.5% to 43.9%. Tiragolumab exposure increased in an approximately dose‐proportional manner when administered alone or with atezolizumab at doses ≥100 mg. Postbaseline, 4/207 patients (1.9%) were positive for treatment‐emergent antidrug antibodies (ADA) against tiragolumab, each at a single time point. Tiragolumab combined with atezolizumab demonstrated desirable PK properties, with no drug‐drug interactions or immunogenicity liability. There were no meaningful differences in tiragolumab or atezolizumab exposure between the Q4W co‐infusion and sequential dosing cohorts. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02794571 (date of registration June 6, 2016). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]