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Stereodivergent synthesis of chiral amines bearing vicinal stereocenters via hydroamination of trisubstituted alkenes
Abstract Chiral aliphatic amines bearing vicinal stereocenters are prevalent motifs in pharmaceuticals and bioactive molecules, yet efficient and stereodivergent access to these structures remains a longstanding challenge. Herein, we report a nickel-catalyzed enantioselective hydroamination of acyclic trisubstituted alkenes that provides a unified platform for the stereodivergent construction of chiral amines bearing β,γ-stereocenters. The reaction exhibits broad substrate scope, accommodating diverse amine electrophiles and tri-substituted alkenes, including those derived from complex bioactive molecules, with high levels of regio-, diastereo-, and enantioselectivity. By modulating the alkene geometry and the configuration of a chiral biimidazoline ligand, all four stereoisomers can be accessed in a predictable manner. The protocol proceeds under mild conditions, tolerates various functional groups, and enables late-stage derivatization, demonstrating its utility for constructing densely functionalized, three-dimensional amine scaffolds. This work provides a valuable platform for asymmetric synthesis and holds strong potential for drug discovery and molecular design.
Gender distribution in authorship on research submissions at the European College of Veterinary Surgeons Annual Scientific Congress: 2012–2022
The objective of this study was to explore gender distribution for authors on research presentations at European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS) Annual Scientific Meetings from 2012–2022. Our populations for data collection included the ECVS Diplomate membership and authors listed for research submissions at the ECVS Annual Scientific Meetings between 2012–2022. Data was extracted from Conference Programs including year, first, second and senior (last) author names, and session type (scientific poster, short communication, resident forum). Authors were assigned a binary gender using a web-based algorithm to determine gender by first name. Gender demographics for ECVS Diploma holders between 1993–2023 was obtained from the ECVS Office for comparison to assess gender representation proportional to the specialty organisation, again this was based on a binary gender archetype. Although there are limitations to this approach, it is consistent with methodology in contemporaneously published papers in the human medical and veterinary fields. We identified 1353 research presentations, of which 1292 had complete information for all authors. At first author, men and women approached parity, but second and senior authors were more commonly men with the discrepancy being most marked at senior author level, and in the resident forum. If the first or senior author was a man, it was significantly more likely the second author would also be a man. There were no changes in authorship trends across the decade evaluated. In conclusion, women approached parity for first author but were under-represented as second and particularly senior author. In veterinary medicine, credit researchers receive is typically based on their position in the author list. First and senior author are more valued positions, with senior author usually having ownership of the project. Second author is the most valuable of the junior co-author positions but carries lower prestige than first or senior author. Further research is required to investigate underlying reasons contributing to ongoing gender disparity at senior author.
Multimodal Nanoscale Mapping of Local Structure and CO <sub>2</sub> Adsorption in Metal–Organic Frameworks
Isolated para-aortic lymph node recurrence from colorectal cancer treated by radiotherapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract Optimal management for isolated para-aortic lymph node (PALN) recurrence from colorectal cancer (CRC) remains undefined. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of radiotherapy (RT) for this indication. A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO CRD42025634494) was conducted using four databases through April 2025. Pooled locoregional progression-free survival (LPFS), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were estimated using a random-effects model. Five retrospective studies ( n = 220) were included. Pooled 1- and 3-year LPFS were 84% (95% CI, 78–89%) and 69% (62–76%), respectively. Pooled 1- and 3-year PFS were 54% (42–65%) and 22% (14–32%). Pooled 1- and 3-year OS were 91% (87–95%) and 64% (54–73%). Primary colon tumors were associated with poorer survival outcomes, while female sex predicted improved 3-year PFS. Severe (grade ≥ 3) acute and chronic toxicities were low (7.7% and 0.5%, respectively). Modern RT for PALN recurrence from CRC provides favorable local control with acceptable toxicity. With a 3-year OS of 64%, RT offers a potential survival benefit for carefully selected patients.
Inhibiting Mrt4-rRNA interaction with fumaramidmycin-based derivatives as an antifungal strategy
Strengthening laboratory management towards accreditation in Tanzania: The 13 years of remarkable revolutions in laboratory quality management system
Introduction The increase in demand of laboratory services and recent advancements in laboratory technologies underscore the importance of quality laboratory services in delivering accurate, reliable, and timely test results. As a strategy to ensure quality laboratory services in the country, Tanzania started to implement Strengthening Laboratory Management Towards Accreditation (SLMTA) program in 2010. We describe the revolutions made in laboratory quality management system across the 13 years of SLMTA implementation highlighting the impact and achievements attained following the modification of the generic SLMTA approach. Methodology We evaluated, described and summarized the 13 years of SLMTA implementation in Tanzania and the quality performance of medical laboratories enrolled into the program. The quality performance was evaluated based on the increase in number of SLMTA laboratories accredited under ISO 15189 by comparing the laboratories enrolled during the generic versus modified SLMTA program. Results Out of 138 SLMTA laboratories assessed by 2023 using the SLIPTA checklist, 81 (58.7%) scored 3 stars and above were enrolled in the accreditation process. Of the 81 enrolled laboratories, 50 (61.7%) achieved ISO 15189 accreditation status by 2023. There was a significant increase in number of accredited laboratories during the five years (2018–2023) of modified SLMTA compared to the eight years (2010–2018) of generic SLMTA (47/64 vs. 3/17, p = 0.021). In the context of level of healthcare delivery, most of the accredited laboratories (n = 47/50, 94%), belonged to the district level and above. Conclusion To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the modified SLMTA approach with remarkable results. The modified SLMTA program significantly improved the status and number of accredited laboratories in Tanzania. While the attained milestone demonstrates the SLMTA program’s effectiveness in strengthening quality of laboratory services, the significant achievements underscore the essence of monitoring, evaluation and learning of the implemented programs, and most importantly the need for strategies that contextualize and tailor the program for sustainability.
High-Entropy Hexagonal-Phase Oxide Hollow Polyhedrons for Highly Efficient Electrocatalytic Reduction of Low-Concentration NO
Wavelength-dependent photofragmentation of pyrazine
Dual deconvolution in multiphoton structured illumination microscopy for deep-tissue super-resolution imaging
Shifting from an expected to an opportunistic pathogen: Comparison of cases of infant late and very late onset group B streptococcal (GBS) infection in a Canadian city over a 27-year period
Background Despite decades of study, the characteristics of infants with invasive group B streptococcus (GBS) late onset disease (LOD) (onset day 7–89 of life) and in particular very late onset disease (VLOD) (after day 89 of life) are not well described. Materials and methods This was a retrospective cohort study of infants hospitalized in four Edmonton hospitals April 1, 1994 through June 30, 2022 with LOD or VLOD GBS invasive disease. Data were collected on demographics, day of onset of infection, clinical manifestations and outcomes. Results There were 115 episodes of LOD in 111 infants of which 50 infants (45%) were preterm. Onset of initial LOD infection was on median day 27 (IQR 19–40.5) of life. All but one infant was bacteremic while 38/111 (34%) had proven and 17/111 (15%) had possible GBS meningitis. Five of 111 (5%) died before hospital discharge with all deaths probably due to GBS. There were 11 episodes of VLOD in 11 infants (8 [73%] preterm) presenting on median day 116 (IQR 103–138) (range 93–207) of life. Three (27%) had GBS meningitis. All 11 survived to discharge. As compared with infants with LOD, those with VLOD were less likely to be born vaginally (n = 3/11 [27%] versus n = 72/111 [65%] p = 0.036), more likely to be mechanically ventilated during their birth hospitalization (n = 5/11 [45%] versus n = 17/111 [15%]; p = 0.039), and more likely to have serious infection with other pathogens during their GBS admission (n = 3/11 [27%] versus n = 4/111 [4%]); p = 0.032). Serotype III accounted for 78% of LOD and 64% of VLOD cases. Conclusion GBS remains a significant cause of infant morbidity and mortality. Infants with VLOD appear to have more complex medical histories prior to GBS infection than those with LOD. There is increasing evidence that GBS may sometimes be an opportunistic pathogen in infants over 89 days of age. This speaks of the need for increased surveillance for VLOD with further research into its epidemiology and underlying immunologic determinants.
Structure–Activity-Driven Multicompartment Lipid Nanoparticles for Synergistic mRNA and siRNA Codelivery in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Comparison of AAV9-driven motor neuron transduction following different CNS-directed delivery methods in mice
Abstract Gene therapies are promising for diseases previously considered incurable. Adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) demonstrates remarkable tropism for motor neurons (MNs) and represents an exciting candidate to target genetic causes of motor neuron diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, systemic delivery risks immunogenicity and off-target effects, therefore localised delivery to the CNS is advantageous. We assessed MN transduction in wild-type post-natal mice using AAV9-controlled, cytomegalovirus-promoter driven, enhanced GFP expression. Intra-cisterna magna (ICM) and intra-cerebroventricular (ICV) methods were compared. Four weeks post-delivery, GFP positivity in MN and astrocytes were quantified via immunohistochemical approaches and viral genome copy number determined by qPCR. All delivery methods achieved high MN transduction in lumbar spinal cord (> 68%). Unilateral ICV delivery provided the highest and most consistent levels (89 ± 3%), and minimal peripheral viral copies. ICV delivery resulted in higher astrocytic transduction, most notably in the cortex. Brainstem MN transduction was high with all methods (> 55%). We failed to find evidence of neuronal transduction in motor cortex. Viral genome copies trended higher in spinal cord and brainstem with ICV approaches, however further work is required to understand how bilateral repeated dose delivery leads to more profound increases. Whilst several routes of administration into cerebrospinal fluid exist, direct comparisons for targeting MNs in vivo remain limited. Overall, all methods of CNS-directed delivery result in high levels of motor neuron transduction in the lumbar spinal cord and brainstem, but not in motor cortex. Unilateral ICV appears to provide the best balance between consistent, high levels of transduction and low off-target effects. However, ICM might be the better option if seeking to avoid astrocytic transduction.
Inverse-designed nanophotonic neural network accelerators for ultra-compact optical computing
A comprehensive economic assessment of the burden of obesity in Kuwait
Background Obesity is a complex public health issue that has risen to epidemic proportions globally. The aim of this study was to estimate the economic costs associated with obesity from governmental and societal perspectives in the State of Kuwait in 2024. Methods A disease-specific prevalence-based cost-of-illness framework was applied. Key parameters include prevalence of obesity and its related comorbidities, relative risks, healthcare resources, income rate and growth, and lost workdays for patients and relatives, all were derived from literature. The outcomes measured were total healthcare costs, societal costs, and cost per patient, all reported in 2024 Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD), United States dollar ($), and Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). Results In 2024, there were approximately 2 million morbidity cases and 961 mortality cases directly attributed to obesity in Kuwait. The economic burden of obesity was estimated at KWD 4.3 billion ($ 14 billion; PPP$ 21.6 billion) from societal perspective and KWD 3.9 billion ($12.8 billion, PPP 19.7 billion) from governmental perspective, almost 1.3 times healthcare budget. The mean annual societal cost per patient was KWD 1,737 ($5,676; PPP 8,729)—17.6% of 2024 Kuwaiti gross domestic product per capita. Furthermore, the mean direct medical cost per patient was KWD 1,586 ($5,184 or PPP 7,972); comprised 3 times the healthcare expenditure per capita. Conclusion Obesity and its comorbidities impose a far greater health and economic burden on Kuwait’s healthcare system and national productivity than previously recognized. This study calls for a paradigm shift toward early prevention, culturally tailored strategies, and comprehensive disease management. Expanding access to emerging innovative treatments and leveraging technology-driven tools are essential to support sustained weight management and reduce long-term impacts.
Stereocontrolled Access to Carbocyclic Nucleosides Bearing Multiple Stereocenters via Desymmetrizing Hydroformylation
An approach for handling imbalanced datasets using borderline shifting
Abstract In supervised learning tasks, class imbalance is a persistent problem that often leads to biased classification models that prioritize the majority class over the minority. To tackle this problem, we present a new resampling method called Bor- derline Shifting, which strengthens the model’s capacity to distinguish between classes close to the decision boundary by selectively enhancing significant borderline instances. Using a variety of 30 benchmark imbalanced datasets, this study com- pares the proposed method to 7 popular resampling techniques: Random Under Sampling (RUS), Random Over Sampling (ROS), SMOTE, Borderline-SMOTE, NearMiss, SMOTE-Tomek, and SMOTEENN. Performance was assessed using three well-known classifiers: Random Forest (RF), Naïve Bayes (NB), and Support Vector Machine (SVM). Evaluation metrics in- cluded F1-score, G-mean, AUC, recall, and precision. The findings show that the Borderline In every metric and classifier, the shifting method continuously produced better results. Our approach outperformed conventional methods like SMOTE and Borderline-SMOTE, achieving an average F1-score of 0.83 ± 0.06, G-mean of 0.86 ± 0.05, and AUC of 0.89 ± 0.04 with SVM. Our method significantly improved the F1-score from 0.62 (baseline) to 0.78 ± 0.07 and the AUC from 0.68 to 0.84 ± 0.06 of Naïve Bayes, which is usually sensitive to data imbalance. The robust Random Forest also benefited greatly: our approach produced the highest overall G-mean of 0.88 ± 0.04 and a stable AUC of 0.91 ± 0.03 with little variation between datasets. These findings show that the suggested Borderline Shifting approach not only solves the imbalance issue more successfully than current approaches but also improves classification performance in a consistent manner across various learning models. For real-world imbalanced learning scenarios, this makes it a viable and broadly applicable solution.
Pairing taguchi based design of experiment with response surface methodology for diesel engine performance optimization using biodiesel-magnesium oxide nanoparticles blends
The increasing demand for diesel engines in agriculture, transportation and power generation has led to the overconsumption of fossil fuels, demanding the search for sustainable alternatives. Biodiesel has emerged as the promised alternative as it offers environmental and economic benefits. This study explores the impact of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles as an additive to the biodiesel-diesel blends on diesel engine performance. Experimental investigations were conducted on four-cylinder diesel engines under varying engine speeds, load conditions, biodiesel blends and magnesium oxide concentrations. A Taguchi L 18 orthogonal array and response surface methodology (RSM) was employed for optimal brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and brake thermal efficiency (BTE). Using Taguchi paired RSM method, three input factors – Biodiesel percentage in diesel (0%, 10%, 20% v/v), engine load (25%, 50%, 75%) and MgO nanoparticles dosage of (0 g, 0.02 g, 0.04g) – were varied to assess the influence on the Brake Specific fuel consumption and Brake Thermal Efficiency. Results indicated that the addition of the MgO nanoparticles enhances combustion efficiency resulting in increase in BTE while decrease in BSFC. The maximum BTE of 23.54% was obtained at the biodiesel percentage of 12%, speed of 1200 RPM, 75% load, and 0.04g MgO. The minimum BSFC was 306.983 g/kWh was obtained at 8% biodiesel and 0.04g MgO, operating at the speed of 1200 RPM and 25% load on engine. The theoretical error in maximum BTE and minimum BSFC as compared to experimental was 1.12% and 4.6% respectively. Optimal engine performance was observed at the moderate biodiesel blends ranging between 12–16 percent with MgO at 0.04g and running between the speeds of 800–1600 RPMs. Using RSM, 7% of cost savings were obtained for the optimal cases as compared to adverse conditions in Automotive industry and 5% savings was obtained for the heavy-duty industry. These findings conclude that biodiesel blends can improve the thermal efficiency and fuel economy. The use of Taguchi L18 provides robust and low-cost procedure for the performance analysis of the diesel engine.
A Nanofluidic Biosensing Spiking Synapse Enabled by Enzyme-Incorporated Metal–Organic Framework under Nanoconfinement
Nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, practice, and mental health status of people living with HIV in Dubai, United Arab Emirates: A cross-sectional descriptive study
Background Despite significant advancements in management, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection remains a global health concern. Limited research exists on the nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the Middle East. This study assessed nutrition-related KAP and mental health status among PLHIV attending an HIV management clinic in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods A cross-sectional study was used to assess HIV/AIDS nutrition-related KAP. The total KAP scores ranged from 13–69, with scores between 13–32 representing poor, 33–51 average, and 52–69 good KAP. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to screen the patients for anxiety and depression. Data was collected face-to-face from August to November 2023. Results Data were collected from 63 patients attending an outpatient clinic. The mean age of the participants was 40 ± 12.4 years, and 80% were men. Most participants (87.3%) demonstrated good KAP (84.6%% and 89.8% for females and males, respectively). Mental health screening for depression and anxiety showed mean total scores of 4.73 ± 3.6 and 4.9 ± 4.9, respectively, which correspond to normal levels. The prevalence of abnormal HADS depression and HADS Anxiety were 8.0% and 17.%, respectively. Conclusions This study found that the participants had good nutrition-related KAP scores, with the prevalence of depression and anxiety less than 20% which is significantly lower than estimates for PLHIV worldwide. This is the first study to explore KAP and mental health status among PLHIV in the Arabian Gulf region.