bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical stress distribution over the palate by different pacifiers assessed by finite element analysis and clinical data
Authors: Freitas Camila Nobre de , Castelo Paula Midori , Noritomi Pedro Yoshito , Scudine Kelly Guedes de Oliveira , Rontani Regina Maria Puppin , Miziara Thanus , Machado Leonardo Mendes Ribeiro
Published: November 2023

The mechanical behavior of each type of pacifier on rigid structures and their various impacts on orofacial growth have yet to be discovered. The study aimed to evaluate the stress distribution over a child's palate by three types of pacifiers using finite element analysis and clinical and laboratory data. Modulus of elasticity was obtained from 30 specimens comprising 10 of each conventional (A), orthodontic (B), and breast‐shaped (C) pacifiers. Tongue strength was assessed in eight 3‐year‐old children (kPa). A hemi‐maxilla model was obtained from 2‐ to 3‐year‐old skull tomography, and the images of pacifiers A, B, and C were captured using 3D scanning. The Hypermesh® program generated a mesh of 6‐node tetrahedral elements for applying forces in the X, Y, and Z directions to enable a nonlinear analysis. Pacifier B exhibited the highest values for distributed stress on the palate, followed by pacifier A. Pacifier B stimulated the maxilla forward and sideways. In contrast, pacifier A promoted a forward and upward load, favoring a more atresic palate. Pacifiers A and B tended to rotate in the sagittal plane, generating tensions in the anterior incisors and favoring the open bite. Pacifier C exhibited lateral expansion by stress induction over the mid‐palatal suture with less influence on incisor inclination. Pacifiers showed different detrimental stress distributions on the palate. This information can be helpful for improving recommendations given to parents.
Women as bodies. The role of ambivalent sexism and sexual objectification on non‐consensual sharing of sexting images
Authors: Agueli Barbara , Esposito Ciro , Arcidiacono Caterina , Di Napoli Immacolata
Published: November 2023

Discriminatory attitudes towards women are still widespread and have also pervaded the digital world. They are often connected with the propensity to view and treat women as sexual objects, which sometimes leads to negative and harmful behaviours, such as the sharing of intimate images without the partner's consent. The present study aims at investigating the non‐consensual sharing of intimate images in relation to benevolent and hostile sexism, direct and mediated by female sexual objectification. The sample was recruited through the snowball sampling technique and was made up of 2,305 young Italian adults aged between 18 and 35. Analysis was carried out using structural equation modelling and the multigroup mediation model, allowing us to detect any gender differences. For both, males and females, results show that benevolent sexism has neither a direct nor indirect correlation with non‐consensual sharing of sexts. Instead, hostile sexism has an indirect relation with non‐consensual sharing mediated by the sexual objectification of the woman's body. Results do not show differences between male and female groups and highlight the need to focus on the socio‐cultural context that enables the non‐consensual sharing of intimate images, which is a variety of cyberviolence against women. Practical implications of the results will be extensively discussed. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
HPLC/ESI‐MS Characterization of Phenolic Compounds from Cnicus benedictus L. Roots: A Study of Antioxidant, Antibacterial, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Anti‐Alzheimer's Activity
Authors: Rezig Khalid , Benkaci‐Ali Farid , Fauconnier Marie‐Laure , Laurent Sophie , Umar Haruna Isiyaku , Alex Omoboyowa Damilola , Tata Samira
Published: November 2023

The phenolic composition of Cnicus benedictus roots from four Algerian regions was investigated. Extractions were performed in both hydro‐methanolic (30 : 70, v/v) and hydro‐ethanolic (30 : 70, v/v) solvents. Their efficiency was determined in terms of the qualitative and quantitative composition in phenolic compounds by HPLC‐LC/MS of the different extracts isolated from C. Benedictus roots. Cnicus benedictus roots extract have been characterized by high content of phenolic compounds, where the trans chalcone, 2,3‐dihydro flavone, 3‐hydroxy flavone and cinnamic acid constitute the major components, in addition to fourteen minor acidic compounds and flavonoids as rutin. The hydro‐methanolic extract was the richest in phenolic compounds yield from C benedictus. On the other hand, hydro methanolic (30 : 70, v/v) and hydro ethanolic (30 : 70, v/v) extracts exhibited a high anti‐inflammatory activity by in vitro 5‐lipoxygenase inhibitory activity (IC50: 6.05±94.16 μg/mL) as well as by in silico docking according two methods. Likewise, anti‐Alzheimer activity of extracts was confirmed by this last technique taking into account the major compounds identified. Antibacterial tests revealed interesting results compared to amoxicillin for the different regions studied with a high content in trans chalcone and 3‐hydroxy Flavone.
Functional and Extracellular Production and Antitumor Activity of Mouse Alpha Klotho in Model Microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Çakmak Ramazan , Uzuner Ugur
Published: November 2023

Klotho is a human protein with versatile functions associated with longevity and well‐being. α‐Klotho (α‐KL) deficiency in the circulatory system is associated with reduced life expectancy with numerous disorders such as chronic kidney disease, atherosclerosis, infertility, skin atrophy, emphysema, and osteoporosis. The antagonistic effects of Klotho protein against intractable cancers have also been well documented over the past two decades. In addition, recent findings have also illuminated the importance of soluble Klotho during cognitive development, oxidative stress, cellular apoptosis, and neurodegenerative disorders. The low‐cost and sustainable production of alpha Klotho protein is extremely important for its widespread use against different diseases. Here, we report heterologous, functional, and extracellular production of mouse α‐KL (mα‐KL) protein in model microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The secretion of mα‐KL into the extracellular environment facilitated downstream processes and warranted low‐cost purification in high‐titer. Furthermore, the anticarcinogenic efficiency of recombinant mα‐KL was examined and validated on Rattus norvegicus AR42J pancreas tumors. Microalgae‐based photosynthetic, low‐cost, and scalable production of mα‐KL could be used to develop a variety of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and wellness products, all aimed at serving health and well‐being.
Optical Coherence Tomography Predictors of SIde Branch REstenosis after unprotected Left Main bifurcation angioplasty using double kissing crush technique (OP‐SIBRE LM Study)
Authors: Gupta Ankush , Shrivastava Abhinav , Chhikara Sanya , Mamas Mamas A. , Vijayvergiya Rajesh , Swamy Ajay , Mahesh Nalin K. , Singh Navreet , Bajaj Nitin , Singh Balwinder , Meena Daulat Singh , Singh Chandraket
Published: November 2023

Background

Among the two stent strategies, contemporary evidence favors double kissing crush technique (DKC) for complex unprotected distal left main bifurcation (UdLMB) lesions. However one of the major challenges to these lesions is side branch (SB) restenosis.

Aims

Our aim was to identify optical coherence tomographic (OCT) characteristics that may predict SB restenosis (SBR) after UdLMB angioplasty using DKC technique.

Methods

This was a single‐center, retrospective study that included 60 patients with complex UdLMB disease, who underwent OCT‐guided angioplasty using DKC technique. Angiographic follow‐up was performed in all patients at 1 year to identify patients with SBR. Patients with SBR group were compared with patients without SBR (NSBR group) for OCT parameters during index procedure.

Results

Twelve (20%) patients developed SBR at 1‐year follow‐up. The SBR group had longer SB lesion (18.8 ± 3.2 vs. 15.3 ± 3.7 mm, p = 0.004) and neo‐metallic carinal length (2.1 vs. 0.1 mm, p < 0.001) when compared to the NSBR group. Longer neo‐metallic carinal length was associated with the absence of the dumbbell sign, presence of hanging stent struts across the SB ostium on OCT of final MB pullback. On multivariate regression analysis, SB distal reference diameter (DRD) and SB stent expansion were identified as independent predictors of SBR with SB‐DRD of ≤2.8 mm (area under curve—0.73, sensitivity—83.3%, and specificity—62.5%) and SB stent expansion of ≤89% (area under curve—0.88, sensitivity—83.3%, and specificity‐ 81.2%) as the best cut off values to predict SBR.

Conclusions

SB DRD and SB stent expansion are the OCT predictors of future SBR after UdLMB angioplasty using DKC technique.
Computed tomography derived anatomical predictors of vascular access complications following transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation: A systematic review
Authors: Androshchuk Vitaliy , Chehab Omar , Prendergast Bernard , Rajani Ronak , Patterson Tiffany , Redwood Simon
Published: November 2023

Background

Vascular complications after percutaneous transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are associated with adverse clinical outcomes and remain a significant challenge.

Aims

The purpose of this review is to synthesize the existing evidence regarding the iliofemoral artery features predictive of vascular complications after TAVI on pre‐procedural contrast‐enhanced multidetector computed tomography (MDCT).

Methods

A systematic search was performed in Embase and Medline (Pubmed) databases. Studies of patients undergoing transfemoral TAVI with MDCT were included. Studies with only valve‐in‐valve TAVI, planned surgical intervention and those using fluoroscopic assessment were excluded. Data on study cohort, procedural characteristics and significant predictors of vascular complications were extracted.

Results

We identified 23 original studies involving 8697 patients who underwent TAVI between 2006 and 2020. Of all patients, 8514 (97.9%) underwent percutaneous transfemoral‐TAVI, of which 8068 (94.8%) had contrast‐enhanced MDCT. The incidence of major vascular complications was 6.7 ± 4.1% and minor vascular complications 26.1 ± 7.8%. Significant independent predictors of major and minor complications related to vessel dimensions were common femoral artery depth (>54 mm), sheath‐to‐iliofemoral artery diameter ratio (>0.91–1.19), sheath‐to‐femoral artery diameter ratio (>1.03–1.45) and sheath‐to‐femoral artery area ratio (>1.35). Substantial iliofemoral vessel tortuosity predicted 2–5‐fold higher vascular risk. Significant iliofemoral calcification predicted 2–5‐fold higher risk. The iliac morphology score was the only hybrid scoring system with predictive value.

Conclusions

Independent iliofemoral predictors of access‐site complications in TAVI were related to vessel size, depth, calcification and tortuosity. These should be considered when planning transfemoral TAVI and in the design of future risk prediction models.
A premature newborn born to an adolescent girl with acute Ebola virus disease and malaria survives in a resource‐limited setting in an Ebola treatment unit in DR Congo: “A case report”
Authors: Imani‐Musimwa Prince , Grant Emilie , Feza‐Malira Micheline , Mbala‐Kingebeni Placide , Buhoro‐Baabo Gisèle , Zawadi‐Endanda Espérence , Fraterne‐Muhayangabo Rigo , Claris‐Mwatsi Inès , Tsongo‐Kibendelwa Zacharie , Nyakio‐Ngeleza Olivier , Juakali‐Kyolov Sihali , Wembonyama‐Okitosho Stanis , Sengey‐Mushengezi‐Amani Dieudonné , Mukadi‐Bamuleka Daniel , Ververs Mija
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

In the acute phase of Ebola virus disease (EVD) premature neonatal survival is extremely rare. High mortality is related to prematurity, neonatal complications of Ebola, and precarious conditions of neonatal care in underresourced ETUs. This is a case of preterm neonatal survival in the setting of acute maternal EVD infection.

This case describes rare preterm newborn survival in the setting of an Ebola treatment unit in Eastern DRC. The neonate was born vaginally to an acutely ill 17‐year‐old mother who was vaccinated against Ebola virus after being identified as a contact of her father, who was a confirmed case and who did not survive his infection. This woman was admitted to an Ebola treatment unit at 32 weeks of gestation and given monoclonal antibody treatment. She gave birth vaginally, succumbing to postpartum hemorrhage 14 h after delivery. This child survived despite compounding vulnerabilities of preterm birth and maternal Ebola infection. Despite a negative test for EVD, the neonate was given a single dose of monoclonal antibody therapy in the first days of life. We believe maternal vaccination and neonatal monoclonal antibody treatment contributed to the child's survival. The circumstances surrounding neonatal survival in this extremely resource‐limited context must be analyzed and disseminated in order to increase rates of neonatal and maternal survival in future outbreaks. Maternal and neonatal health are critical aspects of outbreak response that have been understudied and underreported leaving clinicians severely underresourced to provide life‐saving care in outbreak settings. Pregnancy and childbirth do not stop in times of disease outbreak, adequate equipment and trained staff required for quality neonatal care must be considered in future outbreak responses.
Stabilization of Luminescent Mononuclear Three‐Coordinate CuI Complexes by Two Distinct Cavity‐Shaped Diphosphanes Obtained from a Single α‐Cyclodextrin Precursor
Authors: Phan Tuan‐Anh , Jouffroy Matthieu , Matt Dominique , Armaroli Nicola , Moncada Alejandra Saavedra , Bandini Elisa , Delavaux‐Nicot Béatrice , Nierengarten Jean‐François , Armspach Dominique
Published: November 2023

Slightly different reaction conditions afforded two distinct cavity‐shaped cis‐chelating diphosphanes from the same starting materials, namely diphenyl(2‐phosphanylphenyl)phosphane and an α–cyclodextrin‐derived dimesylate. Thanks to their metal‐confining properties, the two diphosphanes form only mononuclear [CuX(PP)] complexes (X=Cl, Br, or I) with the tricoordinated metal ion located just above the center of the cavity. The two series of CuI complexes display markedly different luminescence properties that are both influenced by the electronic properties of the ligand and the unique steric environment provided by the cyclodextrin (CD) cavity. The excited state lifetimes of all complexes are significantly longer than those of the cavity‐free analogues suggesting peculiar electronic effects that affect radiative deactivation constants. The overall picture stemming from absorption and emission data suggests close‐lying charge‐transfer (MLCT, XLCT) and triplet ligand‐centered (LC) excited states.
The association between neighborhood‐level income and cancer stage at diagnosis and survival in Alberta
Authors: Ruan Yibing , Heer Emily , Warkentin Matthew T. , Jarada Tamer N. , O’Sullivan Dylan E. , Hao Desiree , Ezeife Doreen , Cheung Winson , Brenner Darren R.
Published: November 2023

Background

Socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with a range of health outcomes, including cancer diagnosis and survival. However, the evidence for this association is inconsistent between countries with and without single‐payer health care systems. In this study, the relationships between neighborhood‐level income, cancer stage at diagnosis, and cancer‐specific mortality in Alberta, Canada, were evaluated.

Methods

The Alberta Cancer Registry was used to identify all primary cancer diagnoses between 2010 and 2020. Average neighborhood income was determined by linking the Canadian census to postal codes and was categorized into quintiles on the basis of income distribution in Alberta. Multivariable multinomial logistic regression was used to model the association between income quintile and stage at diagnosis, and the Fine–Gray proportional subdistribution hazards model was used to estimate the association between SES and cancer‐specific mortality.

Results

Out of the 143,818 patients with cancer included in the study, those in lower income quintiles were significantly more likely to be diagnosed at stage III (odds ratio [OR], 1.07; 95% CI [confidence interval], 1.06–1.09) or IV (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.11–1.14) after adjusting for age and sex. Lower income quintiles also had significantly worse cancer‐specific survival for breast, colorectal, liver, lung, non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, oral cavity, pancreas, and prostate cancers.

Conclusions

Disparities were observed in cancer outcomes across neighborhood‐level income groups in Alberta, which demonstrates that health inequities by SES exist in countries with single‐payer health care systems. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying causes and to develop strategies to mitigate these disparities.
The ocular mathematical virtual simulator: A validated multiscale model for hemodynamics and biomechanics in the human eye
Authors: Sala Lorenzo , Prud'homme Christophe , Guidoboni Giovanna , Szopos Marcela , Harris Alon
Published: November 2023

We present our continuous efforts from a modeling and numerical viewpoint to develop a powerful and flexible mathematical and computational framework called Ocular Mathematical Virtual Simulator (OMVS). The OMVS aims to solve problems arising in biomechanics and hemodynamics within the human eye. We discuss our contribution towards improving the reliability and reproducibility of computational studies by performing a thorough validation of the numerical predictions against experimental data. The OMVS proved capable of simulating complex multiphysics and multiscale scenarios motivated by the study of glaucoma. Furthermore, its modular design allows the continuous integration of new models and methods as the research moves forward, and supports the utilization of the OMVS as a promising non‐invasive clinical investigation tool for personalized research in ophthalmology.
Bioequivalence Study of Capsules versus Film Tablets Containing Rivaroxaban in Healthy Caucasian Subjects under Fasting and Fed Conditions
Authors: Sözer Gökçe , Inal Ahmet , Sezer Zafer , Martin Wolfgang , Ottmann Ewald , Reinsch Martin , Koru Selma Alime
Published: November 2023

The bioequivalence (BE) of orally administered capsules versus film tablets containing 20  and 10 mg of rivaroxaban was assessed in 2 single‐dose, open‐label, randomized 2‐way crossover trials with a washout period of at least 1 week. The study for the 10 mg strength was conducted under fasting conditions (n = 68) and the study for the 20 mg strength under fed conditions (n = 52). Blood samples were collected over a 36‐hour period and concentrations were assayed using a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method. Pharmacokinetic (PK) evaluation was performed with the program Phoenix WinNonlin, for non‐compartmental assessment of data.

After administration of 10 mg rivaroxaban under fasting conditions, mean Area Under the time ‐ concentration Curve until the last blood sampling point (AUCt), Area Under the time ‐ concentration Curve until infinity (AUC∞), and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) were comparable (972 ng/mL*h, 1048 ng/mL*h, and 111 ng/mL, respectively, for the test and 1013 ng/mL*h, 1070 ng/mL*h and 130 ng/mL, respectively, for the reference formulation). Mean AUCt, AUC∞, and Cmax were also comparable under fed conditions after administration of 20 mg rivaroxaban (2145 ng/mL*h, 2198 ng/mL*h and 275 ng/mL, respectively, for the test and 1856 ng/mL*h, 1916 ng/mL*h and 240 ng/mL, respectively, for the reference formulation). The 90% confidence intervals for all PK parameters were within the acceptance range of 80%‐125%, suggesting BE between the generic product and the innovator product in healthy Caucasian male subjects. A clinically relevant difference in the tolerability and safety of the treatments was not detected. Study results indicated that the capsule formulations were bioequivalent with the film tablet formulations.
Direct Electrochemical Synthesis of Metal‐Organic Frameworks: Cu3(BTC)2 and Cu(TCPP) on Copper Thin films and Copper‐Based Microstructures
Authors: Araújo‐Cordero Ana María , Caddeo Francesco , Mahmoudi Behzad , Bron Michael , Wouter Maijenburg A.
Published: November 2023

Cu thin films and Cu2O microstructures were partially converted to the Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) Cu3(BTC)2 or Cu(TCPP) using an electrochemical process with a higher control and at milder conditions compared to the traditional solvothermal MOF synthesis. Initially, either a Cu thin film was sputtered, or different kinds of Cu or Cu2O microstructures were electrochemically deposited onto a conductive ITO glass substrate. Then, these Cu thin films or Cu‐based microstructures were subsequently coated with a thin layer of either Cu3(BTC)2 or Cu(TCPP) by controlled anodic dissolution of the Cu‐based substrate at room temperature and in the presence of the desired organic linker molecules: 1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylic acid (BTC) or photoactive 4,4′,4′′,4′′′‐(Porphine‐5,10,15,20‐tetrayl) tetrakis(benzoic acid) (TCPP) in the electrolyte. An increase in size of the Cu micro cubes with exposed planes [100] of 38,7 % for the Cu2O@Cu3(BTC)2 and a 68,9 % increase for the Cu2O@Cu(TCPP) was roughly estimated. Finally, XRD, Raman spectroscopy and UV–vis absorption spectroscopy were used to characterize the initial Cu films or Cu‐based microstructures, and the obtained core‐shell Cu2O@Cu(BTC) and Cu2O@Cu(TCPP) microstructures.
Quantification of quercetin from red onion (Allium cepa L.) powder via high‐performance liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet (HPLC‐UV) and its effect on hyperuricemia in male healthy Wistar albino rats
Authors: Umer Muhammad , Nisa Mahr Un , Ahmad Nazir , Rahim Muhammad Abdul , Kasankala Ladislaus Manaku
Published: November 2023

Onions (Allium cepa L.) contain various flavonols, including quercetin, kaempferol, anthocyanin, luteolin, and myricetin. Quercetin in onions is considered the primary bioactive component. To assess the impact of quercetin on hyperuricemia in healthy Wistar albino rats, this study used high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet (HPLC‐UV) to identify and measure quercetin in onion powder. Twenty‐four 160 ± 10 g, six wistar albino male rats in each group were kept: NC (control sample, no onion powder), OT1, OT2, and OT3, which contained 11.13, 14.84, and 18.61 g/100 g onion powder, respectively. The treatment lasted 28 days, during which the last 7 days were for urine, feces, and blood collection. The results showed a trend of decreasing levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, total cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein in rats fed OT1, OT2, and OT3 diets. Improvements were observed in feed, water, and nutrient intake, feed conversion ratio, feed efficiency ratio, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance, body weight, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and uric acid levels (p ≤ .05). In contrast, high‐density lipoprotein, triglycerides, serum total protein, neutrophils, and lymphocytes did not change (p ≥ .05). White blood cells, red blood cell count, platelet count, hemoglobin, and monocytes showed an upward trend. Based on our calculations, we determined the optimal human dosage from the most effective amount of onion powder. By taking into account the ratio of human‐to‐rat surface area, we estimate that the equivalent human dose of onion is 181.04 grams with 204 mg of quercetin. Additionally, when factoring in the dry matter content, the recommended dose of onion is 29.19 grams with 220 mg of quercetin.
Prebiotics Plus Probiotics May Favorably Impact on Gut Permeability, Endocannabinoid Receptors, and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients with Coronary Artery Diseases: A Clinical Trial
Authors: Liu Min , Tandorost Arash , Moludi Jalall , Dey Priyankar
Published: November 2023

While gut‐to‐systemic translocation of pyrogenic endotoxin due to a leaky gut elicits systemic inflammation, at the intestine, the endocannabinoid system (eCB) also plays a major role in modulating the impact of gut dysbiosis on the host system. Therefore, we hypothesized that coadministration of prebiotic inulin with probiotics would improve the eCB system, gut microbial composition, and inflammatory parameters associated with coronary artery diseases (CAD). We designed a randomized, double‐blind trial with 92 CAD patients. Patients were randomly allocated to receive inulin (15 mg/day), LGG capsules 1.9 × 109 colony‐forming unit (CFU) or inulin plus probiotic (synbiotics) supplements, for a duration of 60 days. We assessed gut microbiota composition, expression of cannabinoid receptors (i.e., CB1 and CB2), serum levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR‐4), lipopolysaccharides (LPS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) before and after the supplementation. Probiotic‐inulin cosupplementation significantly decreased IL6, LPS, and TLR‐4 and increased serum TAC concentrations compared with the placebo. While CB1 receptor expression had no difference, significant differences were observed for the CB2 receptor expression among the four treatments. CB2 receptor mRNA expression significantly (p < .05) correlated with serum levels of LPS (r = −.10) and F/B ratio (r = −.407, p = .047). Our data collectively provide preliminary evidence that gut microbiota determines gut permeability through the LPS–eCB system. We also have found that synbiotics improved the eCB receptors, and inflammatory biomarkers more than either of the two supplementations given alone.
Spatiotemporal patterns of cortical microstructural maturation in children and adolescents with diffusion MRI
Authors: Lynch Kirsten M. , Cabeen Ryan P. , Toga Arthur W.
Published: November 2023

Neocortical maturation is a dynamic process that proceeds in a hierarchical manner; however, the spatiotemporal organization of cortical microstructure with diffusion MRI has yet to be fully defined. This study characterized cortical microstructural maturation using diffusion MRI (fwe‐diffusion tensor imaging [DTI] and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging [NODDI] multicompartment modeling) in a cohort of 637 children and adolescents between 8 and 21 years of age. We found spatially heterogeneous developmental patterns broadly demarcated into functional domains where NODDI metrics increased, and fwe‐DTI metrics decreased with age. By applying nonlinear growth models in a vertex‐wise analysis, we observed a general posterior‐to‐anterior pattern of maturation, where the fwe‐DTI measures mean diffusivity and radial diffusivity reached peak maturation earlier than the NODDI metrics neurite density index. Using non‐negative matrix factorization, we found occipito‐parietal cortical regions that correspond to lower order sensory domains mature earlier than fronto‐temporal higher order association domains. Our findings corroborate previous histological and neuroimaging studies that show spatially varying patterns of cortical maturation that may reflect unique developmental processes of cytoarchitectonically determined regional patterns of change.
CDKN2B‐AS (rs2891168), SOD2 (rs4880), and PON1 (rs662) polymorphisms and susceptibility to coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Iranian patients: A case‐control study
Authors: Yari Abolfazl , Karam Zahra M. , Meybodi Seyed M. E. , Sargazi Marzieh L. , Saeidi Kolsoum
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a devastating illness and primary cause of death worldwide that arises from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Several large‐scale studies found that 9p21.3, superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), and paraoxonase 1 (PON1) polymorphisms increase type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and/or coronary artery disease (CAD) risk. Our research aimed to investigate whether the SNPs of the 9p21.3 locus (rs28911698), SOD2 (rs4880), and PON1 (rs662) genes were associated with the risk of T2DM and/or CAD in the Iranian population.

Methods

In this case‐control study four group subjects including patients with CAD non‐T2DM, with CAD and T2DM, non‐CAD with T2DM, and non‐CAD non‐T2DM were recruited to the study from 2019 to 2020. Molecular analysis was carried out by allele specific‐polymerase chain reaction (AS‐PCR) technique for rs4880, Taqman genotyping assay for rs2891168, and PCR followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) technique for rs662.

Results

The rs2891168 polymorphism presented an elevated risk of CAD in non‐T2DM with CAD and with T2DM CAD groups compared to the non‐T2DM non‐CAD group with GG genotype and dominant model after adjustment (p < 0.05). G‐allele in PON1 rs662 polymorphism associated with increased risk of T2DM in T2DM non‐CAD, and T2DM CAD groups compared to non‐T2DM non‐CAD group with dominant model, GG and AG genotypes (p < 0.05). However, SOD2 rs4880 polymorphism presented no significant association with the development of diabetes or CAD.

Conclusion

These results provide a prime witness that rs2891168 and rs662 gene variants might have a possible increased risk of CAD and T2DM occurrence, respectively. To obtain more definitive and accurate results in this area, further research is required.
High frequency of type I interferon auto‐antibodies in a group of middle‐aged HIV‐infected patients: A cross‐sectional exploratory study
Authors: Imberti Luisa , Magro Paola , Sottini Alessandra , Quaresima Virginia , Castelli Francesco , Quiros‐Roldan Eugenia
Published: November 2023

Background

Auto‐antibodies neutralizing the activity of type I interferons have been recently described in patients infected by SARS‐CoV‐2. They can be present even before the onset of the infection. Since type I interferons exert a dichotomous role in the pathogenesis of acute versus chronic HIV infection and auto‐antibodies are often found in untreated and anti‐retroviral treated HIV+ patients, we investigated whether auto‐antibodies anti‐type I interferons are present at high prevalence in those HIV+ patients with concomitant opportunistic infections (OIs).

Methods

The analysis of auto‐antibodies against two types of type I interferons (IFN‐α2 and IFN‐ω) was performed using the ELISA test in 60 patients chronically infected by HIV who showed concomitant infections caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis or nontuberculosis mycobacterium or with active cytomegalovirus infections. Results were compared with those of 283 SARS‐CoV‐2 swab positive patients showing mild to severe pneumonia. A chi‐square (χ2) test or the Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test were used to compare the HIV+ patient categorical or continuous variables, respectively.

Results

A high prevalence of auto‐antibodies to type I interferons was found in middle‐aged HIV‐infected patients with concomitant OIs (11.6% vs. 5.3% in COVID‐19 subjects; p < .05). No statistically differences were found for viro/immunological characteristics (CD4 and CD8 cell counts and viral load) between patients with and without type I interferons auto‐antibodies.

Conclusions

This study, which is the first searching auto‐antibodies against type I interferons in HIV‐infected patients, demonstrated that their prevalence was higher than that expected by the age of these patients. Furthermore, it indicated that these auto‐antibodies are nonspecifically increased in critical SARS‐CoV‐2 infection but can be found also in other infections.
The state of the art on deficit irrigation in soybean
Authors: Morbidini Francesco , Barrera Wilfredo , Zanin Giampaolo , Verdi Leonardo , Camarotto Carlo , Ghinassi Graziano , Maucieri Carmelo , Marta Anna Dalla , Borin Maurizio
Published: November 2023

Deficit irrigation (DI) could be an important strategy to achieve the goal of reducing irrigation water consumption. This review aims to identify the impact of different DI strategies on grain yield, water use efficiency (WUE) and oil and protein content in soybean seeds. A total of 25 articles were considered and then divided into DI throughout the whole cycle (standard deficit irrigation, StDI) and DI only at certain stages of the cycle (regulated deficit irrigation, RDI). In StDI, yield reductions were approximately 20% when the replacement of the crop water requirement was between 70% and 90%. For RDI, yield reductions ranging from 9% to 30% were observed depending on the phenological stage at which the crop evapotranspiration (ETc) deficit was imposed. StDI always increased WUE compared to full irrigation, whereas for RDI, the response in terms of WUE changed considering the stressed phenological stage. Few studies have reported the effects on oil and protein content, showing high variability and contrasting results. In general, the application of a reduced amount of water led to a decrease in yield and an increase in WUE, with a magnitude significantly influenced by the stage at which the stress was imposed.
Synergistic effect and molecular mechanism of PVA and UM171 in ex vivo expansion of primitive hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Ren Yan , Cui Yanni , Feng Jingyi , Tan Yanhong , Ren Fanggang , Zhang Yaofang , Wang Hongwei
Published: November 2023

Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is a valuable source of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) used for transplantation; the number of cells in a single UCB is too small to quickly establish bone marrow (BM) implantation, and ex vivo expansion of HSCs has the potential to overcome this limitation. The purpose of this study is to explore the culture conditions conducive to the maintenance and expansion of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and long‐term hematopoietic stem cells (LT‐HSCs) derived from human umbilical cord blood, compare the different effects of albumin (HSA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), optimize the culture system using UM171 and investigate the molecular mechanism of PVA and UM171 promoting the expansion of primitive hematopoietic stem cells. CD34+ cells were purified from UCB using MacsCD34 beads, and then cultured in serum‐free medium supplemented with cytokines for 12 days, with PVA or UM171 added according to experimental requirements; the relative percentage of different HSCs subsets after culture were detected by flow cytometry; CFU Assay Setup for detecting the multilineage differentiation potential of HSCs; RT‐PCR detection of gene expression levels; reactive oxygen detection assessment of intracellular ROS levels. (1) The conditions of 20 ng/mlSCF, 100 ng/mlTPO, and 5% oxygen concentration are conducive to the maintenance of LT‐HSCs. (2) Compared with HSA, PVA significantly increased the proportion of HSPCs and LT‐HSCs, as well as dramatically promoted the expression of antioxidant enzymes and reduced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). (3) After adding UM171 to PVA‐based medium, the proportion of HSPCs and LT‐HSCs further increased, and downstream genes of Notch and Wnt pathways were selectively activated. (1) PVA may inhibit ROS production by upregulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes, which is beneficial for maintaining stemness and inhibiting differentiation of HSCs. (2) The antioxidant properties of PVA can delay differentiation, while UM171 can promote self‐renewal by regulating the stem cell pathway, and the combination of them is beneficial for the maintenance and expansion of HSCs in vitro.
YTHDF1 facilitates PRC1‐mediated H2AK119ub in human ES cells
Authors: Zhang Jingyuan , Wang Tianyu , Shi Ruona , Zhao Yuan , Zhang Yanqi , Zhang Cong , Xing Qi , Zhou Tiancheng , Shan Yongli , Yao Hongjie , Zhang Xiaofei , Pan Guangjin
Published: November 2023

Polycomb repressive complexes (PRCs) play critical roles in cell fate decisions during normal development as well as disease progression through mediating histone modifications such as H3K27me3 and H2AK119ub. How exactly PRCs recruited to chromatin remains to be fully illuminated. Here, we report that YTHDF1, the N6‐methyladenine (m6A) RNA reader that was previously known to be mainly cytoplasmic, associates with RNF2, a PRC1 protein that mediates H2AK119ub in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). A portion of YTHDF1 localizes in the nuclei and associates with RNF2/H2AK119ub on a subset of gene loci related to neural development functions. Knock‐down YTHDF1 attenuates H2AK119ub modification on these genes and promotes neural differentiation in hESCs. Our findings provide a noncanonical mechanism that YTHDF1 participates in PRC1 functions in hESCs.
Impact of digital financial inclusion on the participation in farmer‐based organisations, structured market and off‐farm work in Ghana
Authors: Ankrah Daniel Adu , Asante Bright Owusu , Prah Stephen , Boateng Forster K.
Published: November 2023

This paper examines the impact of mobile money account ownership on farmers' participation in farmer‐based organisations (FBOs), structured market and off‐farm work. Relying on recursive bivariate probit model, our results reveal that owning a mobile money account increases the likelihood of farmers' participating in an FBO, structured market and off‐farm work by 15.4%, 33.3% and 37.5%, respectively. Furthermore, mobile money account ownership is influenced by socioeconomic and institutional factors as well as the presence of mobile money vendors within a community. Our finding calls for sustained efforts to deepen digital financial inclusion for increased participation in FBOs, structured market and off‐farm work.
Re‐estimating the pollution haven–halo hypotheses for Brazil via a machine learning procedure
Authors: Uche Emmanuel , Omoke Philip Chimobi , Silva‐Opuala Charles , Al‐Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh
Published: November 2023

In this study, we re‐examined the pollution haven and halo hypotheses in Brazil for approximately five decades (1970–2019) while controlling for the effects of income, renewable energy and natural resource depletion. For clearer insights, the study employed both the conventional autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and the enhanced kernel regularized least squares (KRLS) techniques. Notably, the KRLS is a flexible machine learning nonlinear analytical technique that explains the interactions of the regressand and the regressors both at the average and across a range of quantiles. After ascertaining cointegration through the bounds tests and the Bayer–Hanck procedures, the following empirical outcomes emerged: The ARDL result suggests the acceptance of the pollution haven hypothesis in Brazil in both the short and long runs. However, the KRLS technique reveals that foreign direct investment (FDI) could enhance environmental quality (pollution halo) within the 25th quantile of the distributions of CO2 emissions. However, at the 50th and 70th quantiles, the pollution haven hypothesis is rectified. This suggests the adoption of varying policy options to ensure continuous inflows of FDI without compromising environmental quality. Additionally, among the control variables, a U‐shaped environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) structure is revealed from the influence of gross domestic product (GDP); renewable energy ensures a clean environment at all times, while resource rent ensures a clean environment only at the 25th and 50th quantiles of the distributions. Policies that could lead to clean environments in Brazil have been provided.
The Correlation of Dynamic Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation With Histological, Biochemical, and Biomechanical Properties in Healing Progress After Achilles Tendon Injury: A Review
Authors: Niu Feige , Ma Rongxing , Zhao Tingting , Fan Hongxing , Han Jun , Zhu Nana , Hu Yongcheng , Meng Xianghong , Wang Zhi
Published: November 2023

Achilles tendon injury is a common sports injury, and an in‐depth understanding of its healing process is essential for improving rehabilitation strategies. As a non‐invasive imaging technology with excellent anatomical and functional information extraction abilities, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been widely used in the evaluation and monitoring of Achilles tendon injury. MRI scans at different stages of Achilles tendon healing can provide information about the structure of the Achilles tendon tissue, blood supply, composition, and metabolism. The change pattern on dynamic MRI evaluation is closely related to the specific stage of Achilles tendon healing and tissue characteristics. For example, the signal strength of dynamic enhanced MRI sequences can reflect blood supply to the Achilles tendon, whereas some quantitative MRI techniques can provide information on the recovery of water and collagen contents in the Achilles tendon. This article discusses the pathophysiological changes after Achilles tendon injury and summarizes the clinical and research status of the MRI techniques used for monitoring Achilles tendon healing. The feasibility of various MRI techniques for monitoring Achilles tendon healing and their correlation with histology, biochemistry, and biomechanics are reviewed, along with the challenges, limitations, and potential opportunities for their application.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Association of surgeon−patient sex concordance with postoperative outcomes following complex cancer surgery
Authors: Khan Muhammad Muntazir Mehdi , Munir Muhammad M. , Woldesenbet Selamawit , Endo Yutaka , Rawicz‐Pruszyński Karol , Katayama Erryk , Ejaz Aslam , Cloyd Jordan , Dilhoff Mary , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Sex concordance may impact the therapeutic relationship and provider−patient interactions. We sought to define the association of surgeon−patient sex concordance on postoperative patient outcomes following complex cancer surgery.

Methods

Patients who underwent surgery for lung, breast, hepato‐pancreato‐biliary, or colorectal cancer between 2014 and 2020 were identified from the Medicare Standard Analytic Files. The impact of surgeon−patient sex concordance or discordance on achieving an optimal postoperative textbook outcome (TO) was assessed using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Among 495 628 patients, 241 938 (48.8%) patients were sex concordant with their surgeon while 253 690 (51.2%) patients were sex discordant. Sex discordance between surgeon and patient was associated with a decreased likelihood to achieve a postoperative TO (odds ratio [OR]: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.93−0.97; p < 0.001). Sex discordance was associated with a higher risk of complications (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.03−1.07; p < 0.001) and 90‐day mortality (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01−1.09; p = 0.011). Of note, male patients treated by female surgeons (OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93−0.99; p = 0.017) had a similar lower likelihood to achieve a TO as female patients treated by male surgeons (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.86−0.93; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Sex discordance was associated with a reduced likelihood of achieving an “optimal” postoperative course following complex cancer surgery.
Determination of microplastics in agricultural soil by double‐shot pyrolysis‐gas chromatography combined with two‐step extraction
Authors: Liu Huijun , Pan Baoquan , Zhang Jingkun , Huang Zhongping , Li Pingping , Shen Jian
Published: November 2023

A method for the determination of five microplastics in agricultural soil was established by double‐shot pyrolysis‐gas chromatography combined with two‐step extraction. First, polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene (PE) were extracted from soil samples using a mixed solvent of cyclohexanone and p‐xylene, and then PE terephthalate was extracted with m‐methylphenol. Subsequently, PC and PE terephthalate were analyzed by thermochemolysis, and PE, PP, and PS were investigated by direct pyrolysis at 600°C. The linearity of the method was satisfactory for five microplastics and the correlation coefficients were higher than 0.97 in the respective concentration range. The limits of detection and the limits of quantification were 0.2–10.0 and 0.5–20.0 μg/g, respectively. The method provided recoveries of 75.1%–141.5%, with acceptable repeatability within 20.0%. It was a supplementary method for the existing characterization of microplastics in agricultural soil.
Comparative pharmacokinetics of 11 major bioactive components between two dosage forms of Qixue Shuangbu Prescription in rats by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Jiang Yong , Xu Liu , Wei Nina , Chen Rui , Wang Yutong , Wu Li , Li Weidong , Yan Zheng , Chen Linwei , Chen Zhipeng
Published: November 2023

Although Qixue Shuangbu Prescription (QSP) is a classic Chinese medicine prescription for treating chronic heart failure. Low bioavailability due to the insolubility and poor biofilm permeability of the main bioactive ingredients of QSP is still a key factor limiting its efficacy. In this study, a novel self‐microemulsifying drug delivery system was proposed to effectively improve the bioavailability of QSP. The qualified ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry methodology was established to investigate the pharmacokinetics characteristics of the QSP self‐microemulsifying drug delivery system. Our results showed that 11 components in the self‐microemulsifying drug delivery system group had prolonged T1/2 and MRT0‐t values compared with QSP extract. The Cmax of calycosin‐7‐glucoside (CG), vanillic acid and paeoniflorin increased 2.5 times, 2.4 times and 2.3 times, respectively. The relative bioavailability values of CG, paeoniflorin and ononin were most significantly affected, increasing by 383.2%, 336.5% and 307.1%, respectively. This study promoted the development of new dosage forms of QSP and provided a useful reference for improving dosage forms to solve the problem of low bioavailability of traditional Chinese medicine.
Current controversy in prenatal diagnosis: The use of cfDNA to screen for monogenic conditions in low risk populations is ready for clinical use
Authors: Vora Neeta L. , Langlois Sylvie , Chitty Lyn S.
Published: November 2023

Noninvasive cfDNA testing for monogenic disorders (sgNIPT) has become integrated into the care of pregnant women at increased risk based on carrier status, known family history, or ultrasound anomalies. The availability of commercial tests for common autosomal recessive and de novo autosomal dominant conditions has led to the use of these tests in low‐risk pregnancies. However, is the technology ready for use in this low‐risk population? This report is a summary of the debate on this topic at the 27th International Conference on Prenatal Diagnosis and Therapy. Both expert debaters provided strong arguments in favor and against the use of sgNIPT in low‐risk pregnancies. The argument in favor of sgNIPT for autosomal recessive conditions is that it allows the identification of affected pregnancies without the need for involving the partner in testing. Arguments for sgNIPT for autosomal dominant conditions include identification of affected fetuses that would have either presented later in pregnancy with fetal anomalies or not been detected prenatally given normal ultrasounds, respect for patient autonomy and patient desire for information. Strong arguments were made against offering sgNIPT screening. Given that traditional carrier screening for recessive conditions can be carried out in many jurisdictions, the added value of sgNIPT has not been clearly demonstrated. Arguments against sgNIPT for autosomal dominant conditions included the total lack of clinical validation studies and the risk of false reassurance in cases of negative results and unnecessary invasive procedures in cases of false positive results. Although there is a desire to take advantage of new technologies to improve the detection of monogenic disorders in low‐risk populations, based on the discussion and the audience vote, it appears premature to offer sgNIPT to all low risk pregnant women. Further clinical validation studies are needed prior to broad implementation.