bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and rationale of the eLym™ System for Decompensation of Excess Lymphatic Fluid via the Thoracic Duct in Acute Heart Failure (DELTA‐HF)
Authors: Biegus Jan , Lindenfeld JoAnn , Felker G. Michael , Bakris George , Jonas Michael , Lala Anuradha , Kereselidze Zviad , Khabeishvili George , Gogorishvili Irakli , Núñez Julio , Bayés‐Genís Antoni , Ponikowski Piotr , Abraham William T.
Published: December 2024

Aims

The interstitial space is the major compartment in which the excess fluid is located, forming peripheral congestion in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). The lymphatic system is responsible for the constant drainage of the compartment. In ADHF, the inefficiency of this system causes extravascular fluid accumulation, underscoring the crucial role of lymphatic system failure in ADHF's pathophysiology. The eLym™ System is a transcutaneous device designed to facilitate lymph drainage by creating a low‐pressure zone in the thoracic duct area, theoretically allowing more efficient decompression of the lymphatic system.

Methods and Results

The safety and feasibility of the eLym™ System for the Decongestion of Excess Lymphatic Fluid via the Thoracic Duct in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: DELTA‐HF Study is a prospective, multicentre, single‐arm study designed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of the WhiteSwell eLym™ System in the treatment of fluid overload in ADHF. A maximum of 50 subjects may be enrolled and undergo the treatment. Inclusion criteria include the presence of congestion, a home diuretic dose ≥80 mg furosemide (or equivalent) and elevated natriuretic peptides. The key exclusion criteria include anatomical abnormalities and the inability to undergo systemic anticoagulation. The study endpoints include the safety (short‐ and long‐term) and feasibility of the procedure. Several congestion indexes will be prospectively assessed. Descriptive statistics will summarize the study results. The study was registered in clinicaltrial.gov (NCT05747196).

Conclusions

The results of the DELTA‐HF study will provide information about the safety and feasibility of the eLym™ System and will provide first‐in‐human clinical signals of its use in ADHF patients.
Expanding the Agenda for a More Just Genomics
Authors: Dolan Deanne Dunbar , Pacia Danielle M. , Johnston Josephine , Lee Sandra Soo‐Jin , Cho Mildred K.
Published: December 2024

The integration of genomics into public health and medicine is happening at a faster rate than the accrual of the capabilities necessary to ensure the equitable, global distribution of its clinical benefits. Uneven access to genetic testing and follow‐up care, unequal distribution of the resources required to access and participate in research, and underrepresentation of some descent groups in genetic and clinical datasets (and thus uncertain genetic results for some patients) are just some of the reasons to center justice in genomics. A more just genomics is an imperative rooted in the ethical obligations incurred by a publicly funded science that is reliant on human data. These features of genomics indebt the genomics enterprise and compel the expanded scope of responsibility proposed by the authors of this special report. The report begins to define justice in genomics for different stakeholder groups and proposes substantial shifts in power, resource distribution, scientific practice, and governance that could enable genomics to meet its obligations to humanity.
Confronting the “Weaponization” of Genetics by Racists Online and Elsewhere
Authors: Panofsky Aaron , Dasgupta Kushan , Iturriaga Nicole , Koch Bernard
Published: December 2024

Genomics research is regularly appropriated in social and political contexts to publicly legitimize unjust and malicious political views, policies, and actions. In recent years, there have been high‐profile cases of mass shooters, public intellectuals, and political insiders using genomics findings to convince audiences that deadly force and coercive policies against racial minorities are warranted. To create a just genomics, geneticists must consider what makes their research so attractive and adaptable for the legitimization of unjust ends and what they can do to counter such appropriations. We offer insights and recommendations drawing from our research into the many ways online white nationalist and far‐right political movements mobilize genetics research to promote their racist, sexist, antisemitic, and homophobic views. First, geneticists should identify and change routine research practices that feed eugenic thinking. Second, geneticists should adopt creative extra‐scholarly communication efforts to counter the use of their field's research that occurs in nonscholarly spaces. Third, we identify permissive epistemological and professional practices within the genetics field that have enabled such unjust appropriations to thrive, and we recommend strategies for institutional reform.
Rectifying or Reinforcing? The (In)Equity Implications of Recontacting Practices in Genomic Medicine
Authors: Mackley Michael P. , Faghfoury Hanna , Chad Lauren
Published: December 2024

The practice of recontact in genomic medicine has the power to help rectify long‐standing inequities in genetic testing. However, if not delivered systematically, recontacting practices also have the potential to reinforce these same inequities. Recontact, which occurs when contact between a clinician and patient is reinitiated after a relationship has ended, is often in search of or in response to updated interpretation or results. Currently, recontact is happening in a patient‐driven and ad hoc manner, undermining its potential to benefit all patients. In this paper, the authors position justice as an additional argument in favor of systematic recontact and an argument against the predominantly patient‐initiated model. They argue that patients from equity‐deserving groups should be early beneficiaries of an emerging responsibility to recontact patients. The authors share illustrative clinical vignettes and propose role‐specific and systems‐level solutions to rightfully position recontact as a tool to promote a more equitable clinical genomics future.
Where the Genetic Code Meets the Zip Code: Advancing Equity in Rare Disease Genomics
Authors: Wojcik Monica H. , Smith Hadley S. , Fraiman Yarden S.
Published: December 2024

The promise of genomic medicine lies in the opportunity to improve health outcomes via a personalized approach to management, grounded in genetic and genomic variation unique to an individual. However, disparities and inequities mar this remarkable landscape of genomic innovation. Prior efforts to understand these inequities have focused on populations for which genetic testing is relatively protocolized or where test utility varies greatly by ancestry groups, where equitable outcomes are more clearly defined. We therefore consider the current landscape of rare disease genomics, in which diagnostic approaches vary widely and utility remains to be fully understood, and suggest a path forward: how ecosocial theory may be used to guide novel equity‐focused initiatives that incorporate illness narratives to improve population health. We present examples of narrative medicine in rare disease and reimagine the role this discipline may play in genomic sequencing studies, toward incorporation of the unique illness narrative into clinical genetics and genomics practice. Approaches that broaden the definitions of disease and of outcomes of interest will force the field to grapple with its racist history and begin to advance health equity and promote justice so that genomic medicine may truly deliver on its promise.
Decompression Obturator Prostheses in the Treatment of Cystic Odontogenic Lesions: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vlock Maria , Singh Annu , Farmer Anthony J. , Kronstadt Kenneth , Randazzo Joseph D. , Halpern Jerry , Tunick Steven , Huryn Joseph M.
Published: December 2024

Background

To spare important anatomical structures from damage during treatment of cystic odontogenic lesions, decompression has become a conservative alternative to enucleation. Marsupialization, in combination with the use of a custom‐made decompression prosthesis, is an effective method of inducing reduction and bony infill of cystic lesions of the jaw.

Methods

In this case series and review of the literature, we describe three patients with odontogenic cysts of the mandible who were treated with custom‐made decompression obturator prostheses (DOP) at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Dental Service.

Results

At the conclusion of treatment, all patients demonstrated complete resolution of their respective bony defects.

Conclusion

DOP provide effective means of keeping the cyst opening patent following marsupialization, which allows for adequate, if not complete, resolution of defects, often without need for subsequent enucleation.
Baseline Tumor Burden Assessed With AI‐Guided PET/CT Total Metabolic Tumor Volume (TMTV) and LDH Levels Predict Efficacy of CAR‐T in Aggressive B‐Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Galli Eugenio , Guarneri Andrea , Sorà Federica , Viscovo Marcello , Pansini Ilaria , Maiolo Elena , Alma Eleonora , Annunziata Salvatore , Sica Simona , Leccisotti Lucia , Hohaus Stefan
Published: December 2024

Disease burden is a critical determinant of outcomes in CAR‐T therapy for B‐cell lymphomas, and one of the most widely used techniques for its assessment is Total Metabolic Tumor Volume (TMTV) measured via [18F]FDG PET/CT. Biological parameters may further refine the risk profile. We analyzed baseline [18F]FDG PET/CT scans from 40 patients treated with CAR‐T, using an AI‐based automated segmentation algorithm to determine TMTV. Our analysis identified that a baseline TMTV greater than 48.4 cm³ and elevated LDH independently predicted progression‐free survival (PFS) after CAR‐T therapy (HR 4.28, p = 0.007, and HR 8.20, p < 0.001, respectively). We then proposed a 0‐to‐2 risk score, assigning one point each for elevated TMTV and elevated LDH. All patients with a score of two experienced a PFS of less than 90 days following CAR‐T infusion. Among the remaining patients, those with 0 points versus 1 point demonstrated a 3‐month PFS of 100% versus 85%, a 6‐month PFS of 92% versus 53%, and a 12‐month PFS of 83% versus 53%, respectively. Importantly, patients with high baseline TMTV who achieved a TMTV reduction to less than 1.99 cm³ by day 30 had a PFS of 66%, significantly better compared to those who did not achieve this reduction. AI‐guided TMTV assessment, combined with LDH levels, provides a rapid and sensitive method for risk stratification at the bedside, which could help optimize patient management prior to CAR‐T therapy.
Effects of 12‐Week Moderate‐Intensity Versus High‐Intensity Water‐Aerobic Training on Physical Fitness, Cardiovascular Health, and Well‐Being in Adults and Older Adults: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Faíl Luís Brandão , Marinho Daniel Almeida , Marques Elisa A , Gonçalves Juliana Mendes , Gil Maria Helena , Pereira Rogério Alves , Marques Mário Cardoso , Izquierdo Mikel , Neiva Henrique Pereira
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

The current study aimed to compare the effects of 12 weeks of moderate versus high‐intensity water aerobics on muscle strength, body composition, lipid profile, blood pressure, and quality of life in both adults and older adults.

Methods

Twenty‐one women (65.19 ± 9.37 years) were randomly allocated to moderate (MIG; n = 11) or high‐intensity groups (HIG; n = 10). Both groups attended 45‐min sessions twice a week for 12 weeks. Assessments at baseline and posttraining included muscle endurance, explosive strength, body mass, body mass index, fat mass, fat‐free mass, triglycerides, total cholesterol, blood pressure, resting heart rate, general quality of life, and general health, and the physical, psychological, social relationships, and environmental domains of quality of life.

Results

HIG experienced greater reductions in cholesterol (ηp2 = 0.28) and fat mass (ηp2 = 0.35), and an increase in fat‐free mass (ηp2 = 0.35), compared to the MIG. The HIG also showed greater improvements in triglycerides (ηp2 = 0.24) and physical quality of life (ηp2 = 0.19) than MIG. No significant group × time interactions were found in the other variables. Nevertheless, muscular endurance and psychological quality of life were improved in both groups (p < 0.05, ES ≥ 0.57). The HIG was the only group to experience a reduction in diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.04, ES = −0.71), while the MIG showed no significant change. Explosive strength did not change in either group.

Conclusion

The study suggests that high‐intensity water aerobics provide additional benefits over moderate intensity for body composition, blood lipids, diastolic blood pressure, and physical quality of life in adults and older adults. However, both intensities effectively improved muscular endurance and psychological quality of life. Future studies should include a larger number of participants and groups (e.g., control group), longer interventions, and controlled dietary intake. Nonetheless, the current results demonstrate that exercise intensity is an important variable for optimal water aerobics outcomes.
A Systematic Review of the Outcomes of Utilization of Artificial Intelligence Within the Healthcare Systems of the Middle East: A Thematic Analysis of Findings
Authors: Khosravi Mohsen , Mojtabaeian Seyyed Morteza , Demiray Emine Kübra Dindar , Sayar Burak
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) within worldwide healthcare systems is occurring at a significant rate. In this context, the Middle East has demonstrated distinctive characteristics in the application of AI within the healthcare sector, particularly shaped by regional policies. This study examined the outcomes resulting from the utilization of AI within healthcare systems in the Middle East.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted across several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in 2024. The quality assessment of the included studies was conducted using the Authority, Accuracy, Coverage, Objectivity, Date, Significance checklist. Following this, a thematic analysis was carried out on the acquired data, adhering to the Boyatzis approach.

Results

100 papers were included. The quality and bias risk of the included studies were delineated to be within an acceptable range. Multiple themes were derived from the thematic analysis including: “Prediction of diseases, their diagnosis, and outcomes,” “Prediction of organizational issues and attributes,” “Prediction of mental health issues and attributes,” “Prediction of polypharmacy and emotional analysis of texts,” “Prediction of climate change issues and attributes,” and “Prediction and identification of success and satisfaction among healthcare individuals.”

Conclusion

The findings emphasized AI's significant potential in addressing prevalent healthcare challenges in the Middle East, such as cancer, diabetes, and climate change. AI has the potential to overhaul the healthcare systems. The findings also highlighted the need for policymakers and administrators to develop a concrete plan to effectively integrate AI into healthcare systems.
Distribution of Virulence‐Associated and Aminoglycoside Resistance Genes Among Clinical Isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae in the Southeast of Iran, During 2019–2023: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Vaez Hamid , Yazdanpour Zahra
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), included in the World Health Organization's list of critical priority pathogens, is considered a serious threat to public health. The present study aims to investigate the prevalence of virulence‐associated and aminoglycoside resistance genes in clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was carried out on 88 clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae collected from patients at Zabol hospital, Iran. Isolates were identified using conventional microbiology tests and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antibiotic susceptibility patterns were ascertained by the disc diffusion method. The prevalence of virulence‐associated genes (K1, K2, K5, iucA, and peg‐344) and aminoglycoside resistance (AME) genes (aac (2′)‐Ia, aac (3)‐IIa, aac (3)‐Ib, aac (6′)‐1b, ant (2″)‐Ia, and aph (3″)‐Ib) was investigated by PCR.

Results

The isolates were mostly resistant to kanamycin (73.8%) and streptomycin (69.3%). The most predominant virulence gene was iucA, observed in 89.8% of isolates, followed by peg‐344 55.7% and K5 14.8%. The most prevalent resistance gene was aph (3″)‐Ib, which was detected in 35.2% of isolates, followed by ant (2″)‐Ia 22.7% and aac (3)‐Ib 17%. In addition, sixteen different patterns of AME genes were observed.

Conclusion

Most investigated isolates of K. pneumoniae were positive for different virulence‐associated and AME genes and therefore can play a significant role in life‐threatening infections. Meanwhile, resistance rates to aminoglycoside antibiotics were high and it was primarily due to the presence of AME genes such as aph (3″)‐Ib, ant (2″)‐Ia, and aac (3)‐Ib.
Membranous dysmenorrhea (a case report)
Authors: Medvedieva Nadiia , Medvediev Mykhailo , Tinelli Andrea
Published: December 2024

Synopsis

The study describes a rare case of membranous dysmenorrhea linked to progesterone withdrawal following oral contraceptive use, resulting in severe pain and endometrial shedding.
Enhancing Melanoma Diagnostic: Harnessing the Synergy of AI and CNNs for Groundbreaking Advances in Early Melanoma Detection and Treatment Strategies
Authors: Sajid Muhammad , Khan Ali Haider , Malik Tauqeer Safdar , Bilal Anas , Ahmad Zohaib , Sarwar Raheem
Published: December 2024

Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent and deadly neoplasms globally. Although melanoma constitutes a minor percentage of all skin cancer types, it presently stands as the primary cause of skin cancer‐related deaths. Previous studies indicate that deep learning algorithms may identify subtle patterns and detailed features in medical images for melanoma detection, however, challenges remain due to the scarcity of annotated images and the intricacy of cancer images. The need for early skin cancer detection, particularly melanoma, is an urgent concern due to its potential for high mortality when not identified and treated promptly. This paper introduces a comprehensive method for melanoma detection in medical images through the incorporation of data augmentation approaches. We employed a CNN model for the categorization of melanoma images with data augmentation techniques such as random horizontal flips, random cropping, grayscale conversion, Gaussian blur, and random perspective transformations. Experiments demonstrate that the suggested method surpasses the existing peak performance in melanoma identification within medical imaging. The results indicate the potential of data augmentation techniques in alleviating the issue of insufficient medical images and improving melanoma detection. We attained an overall accuracy of 93.43%, a sensitivity of 99.74%, and a specificity of 88.53% in melanoma detection, surpassing state‐of‐the‐art approaches with the HAM10000 dataset. Our model is beneficial in clinical settings to aid dermatologists in precisely identifying patients, facilitating early intervention, and potentially preserving lives. In the future, we intend to test our algorithm on more skin cancer datasets that may enhance the accuracy of melanoma diagnosis. A crucial component of the design is the ablation study, which seeks to discover and improve the most significant model parameters for computational efficiency and diagnostic precision. The HAM10000 dataset is utilized for ablation tests to assess and validate the efficacy of the suggested method.
Tailored Functionalization of Plasmonic AgNPs/C:H:N:O Nanocomposite for Sensitive and Selective Detection
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Maskova Hana , Kuzminova Anna , Curda Paval , Doudova Lenka , Sterba Jan , Kylián Ondřej , Rego Ryan O. M. , Straňák Vítězslav
Published: December 2024

We report here on the development of tailored plasmonic AgNPs/C:H:N:O plasma polymer nanocomposites for the detection of the pathogenic bacterium
Borrelia afzelii
, with high selectivity and sensitivity. Silver (Ag) nanoparticles, generated by a gas aggregation source, are incorporated onto a C:H:N:O plasma polymer matrix, which is deposited by magnetron sputtering of a nylon 6.6. These anchored Ag nanoparticles propagate localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), optically responding to changes caused by immobilized pathogens near the nanoparticles. The tailored functionalization of AgNPs/C:H:N:O nanocomposite surface allows both high selectivity for the pathogen and high sensitivity with an LSPR red‐shift Δλ > (4.20 ± 0.71) nm for 50 Borrelia per area 0.785 cm2. The results confirmed the ability of LSPR modulation for the rapid and early detection of (not only) tested pathogens.
A Miniaturized In Vivo Fluorescence Microscopy Method for Monitoring Circulating Tumor Cells in Freely Moving Animals
Authors: Yu Bingchen , Zhu Yuxi , Zhang Fan , Sun Da , Xu Rui , Wang Chenzheng , Pang Kai
Published: December 2024

Metastasis is the leading cause of death in tumor patients, with circulating tumor cells (CTCs) serving as key biomarkers for tumor progression, metastasis, and recurrence. CTC quantity is closely linked to tumor dynamics, which are influenced by biological rhythms. Studying CTC distribution under various physiological conditions provides insights into metastasis mechanisms. However, due to the low abundance of CTCs, detection accuracy is limited, especially with small blood samples, making continuous data collection challenging. To address this, we developed a dual‐channel miniaturized in vivo fluorescence microscopy system for real‐time monitoring of CTCs in experimental animals. This system, which can be fixed to the head or back, enables dynamic, quantitative analysis of CTCs in the circulatory system. It offers a valuable tool for investigating tumor metastasis rhythms, drug evaluation, and prognostic assessment in freely moving animals, advancing research in metastasis mechanisms and cancer treatment.
Porous Nanocomposite Implants With Gold Nanoparticles for Plastic Surgery
Authors: Korotych Olena , Dybkova Svitlana , Maletskyi Anatolii , Rieznichenko Liudmyla , Kernosenko Liudmyla , Gruzina Tamara , Poltoratska Tetiana , Artiomov Oleksandr , Pasmurtseva Nataliia , Podolska Valentyna , Vorotytskiy Pavlo , Samchenko Yurii
Published: December 2024

This study presents an innovative approach to improve implant biointegration and reduce implant‐associated infections using porous poly(vinyl formal) nanocomposite matrices incorporated with gold nanoparticles and antimicrobial/anticancer drugs for plastic surgery applications. The porous matrices were characterized using physicochemical techniques and in vitro biochemical assays. The results demonstrated the biocompatibility of PVF nanocomposites and their potential for functionalization with various bioactive molecules and drugs, thereby enhancing their therapeutic efficacy. In vivo studies in rabbits revealed progressive replacement of implants with fibrous tissue, indicating successful biointegration with the surrounding soft tissues. Future research will focus on the long‐term biocompatibility and functionalization of these nanocomposite implants for plastic surgery and explore their potential in other biomedical applications such as wound healing, tissue engineering, and scaffolds for cell growth and differentiation.
Significant Environmental Factors in the Drift of Electrical Properties in Conductive Nano‐Composite Sensors for Biomechanical Motion‐Tracking
Authors: Bowden Emma E. , Carter Jacob D. , Bowden Anton E. , Mitchell Ulrike H. , Fullwood David T.
Published: December 2024

Wearable nanocomposite stretch sensors are an exciting new development in biomaterials for biomechanical motion‐tracking technology, with applications in the treatment of low back pain, knee rehabilitation, fetal movement tracking, and other fields. When strained, the resistance of the low‐cost sensors is reduced, enabling human motion to be monitored using a suitable sensor array. However, current sensor technologies have exhibited significant drift, in the form of increased electrical resistance, if left stored in typical room conditions. The purpose of the present work was to evaluate the influence of several environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, oxygen levels, and light exposure, that could impact the change in electrical properties of these sensors. These physiological conditions are present during use of the sensors on human subjects as well as during sensor storage, making it vital to understand their effects on sensor properties. The electromechanical performance of the sensors stored under a range of conditions was monitored over a period of several weeks. The observations obtained indicate that the presence of oxygen and humidity in the environment where the sensors are stored is the primary contributor to drift in the sensor response. Sensors that are kept in de‐oxygenated or desiccated environments do not display an increase in electrical resistance over time. This understanding allows for long‐term storage of the sensors without degradation. It also assists in identifying the internal processes at work within the nanoparticle‐polymer matrix that cause changes in electrical properties.
Corporate Value Creation and the Award of Procurement Contracts
Authors: Ferris Stephen P. , Houston Reza , Rayfield Blake
Published: December 2024

This study explores how federal procurement contracts influence shareholder value, revealing a consistent positive correlation between the size of the initial award and investor reactions. We uncover a significant impact of the contract's Sweetheart Index on investor responses, with no‐bid (sole source) contracts, defense contracts, service contracts, and contracts exempt from cost or price reporting requirements attracting stronger investor interest. Notably, we observe significant information leakage around award announcements that affects investor behavior. Through difference‐in‐difference analysis, our findings show that long‐term defense contracts lead to a greater increase in return on equity compared to other large government contracts, as assessed against a matched sample of firms. Additionally, our study highlights that contracts in industries with high concentration and those involving unique goods and services tend to be more lucrative, providing critical insights for investors and policymakers engaged in federal procurement strategies.
Exploring the influence of different vegetable oils on the stability of nanoemulsions in the presence and absence of nisin and limonene
Authors: Giannopoulou Dimitra , Lampropoulou Anastasia , Maragou Myrto , Koliadima Athanasia
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Contamination during food production and handling is a major health concern. Traditional preservation methods often influence food quality as well as their organoleptic characteristics. In contrast, natural alternatives like bacteriocins and essential oils are emerging. Nisin, a natural antimicrobial agent, is effective against Gram‐positive bacteria but not against Gram‐negative bacteria. Moreover, essential oils like limonene, although they have broad antimicrobial properties, are not water‐soluble and affect the sensory properties. Encapsulation in oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions offers a promising approach, enhancing the stability, solubility, and functionality of these natural antimicrobial agents.

RESULTS

Different concentrations of olive, corn, and sesame oils were used in the presence or absence of nisin and limonene. Parameters such as droplet size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and cream index were assessed. Oil type and concentration played a crucial role in the stability and properties of produced nanoemulsions. Sesame oil‐based emulsions showed superior stability, while olive oil‐based emulsions performed well at lower concentrations. Nisin reduced droplet size, while limonene increased it, with combined use yielding intermediate results.

CONCLUSION

The properties and stability of oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions using olive, corn, and sesame oils at varying concentrations, with and without nisin and limonene, were investigated. Sesame oil‐based nanoemulsions exhibited stable droplet size and lower polydispersity index values, while nisin reduced droplet size and limonene increased it. Stability assessments favoured olive oil‐based formulations at low oil concentrations (2% v/v). These findings provide insights into optimizing nanoemulsion formulations for food and pharmaceutical applications. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Understanding Temptation Spending and Saving Behaviour Among Malian Farming Households
Authors: Ölkers Tim , Wahbi Annkathrin , Mußhoff Oliver
Published: December 2024

In low‐income and food‐insecure households, impulsive purchases of nonessential items, known as temptation spending, can create a cycle of persistent poverty. Using machine learning techniques, we examine the statistical associations between the saving channel and such temptation spending, employing primary data from Malian smallholder farmers. Our findings show that saving with mobile money statistically significantly reduces the probability of temptation spending, while saving with family, friends, or at home increases the probability statistically significantly. Given the rapid expansion of mobile money services in general and in Mali in particular, these results offer crucial insights into how the utilization of mobile money influences an individual's spending behaviour and might contribute to rural resilience and food security.
Human Cytomegalovirus Replication Enhanced By Placental MicroRNAs
Authors: Ikuta Kazufumi , Yajima Misako , Kitamura Hiroshi , Aoki Sorama , Kanda Teru
Published: December 2024

Placental trophoblasts constitute the interface between the fetal and maternal environments and physically prevent maternal–fetal viral transmission. However, congenital human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection in the early stages of pregnancy results in severe symptoms in the fetus. HCMV is the most common causative agent of intrauterine infection. To clarify the etiology of congenital HCMV infection, we focused on how the placental environment affects HCMV infection. We investigated the role of microRNAs (miRNAs), which are highly and specifically expressed in placental trophoblasts. The transfection of trophoblast‐specific C19MC miRNAs, encoded by the chromosome 
19 miRNA 
cluster, markedly enhanced HCMV Immediate Early (IE) gene expression and subsequent viral production. However, the expression of the herpes simplex virus type‐1 IE gene was not changed by C19MC‐BAC transfection. From among 46427 mapped genes, we identified that the expression of RAC2, a Rac family small GTPase, was markedly suppressed with an independent genetic hierarchical cluster by C19MC‐BAC transfection. The suppression of RAC2 expression enhanced HCMV IE gene expression. Here, we propose the hypothesis that the placental environment contributes to HCMV‐specific replication via the trophoblast‐specific miRNA‐mediated downregulation of RAC2 expression.
Dipyridamole Ameliorates Memory Impairment and Increases Hippocampal Calbindin Expression in Niemann Pick C1 Mice
Authors: Gaddini Lucia , Chiodi Valentina , Matteucci Andrea , Boussadia Zaira , Buée Luc , Eddarkaoui Sabiha , Blum David , Di Carlo Nazzareno , Raggi Carla , Di Benedetto Rita , Popoli Patrizia , Ferrante Antonella
Published: December 2024

Niemann Pick type C1 (NPC1) is a rare, fatal disorder characterized by endosomal lipid accumulation that leads to damage of both peripheral organs and central nervous system (cerebellum and hippocampus are especially affected). Currently, miglustat is the only approved drug for NPC1, thus the identification of new treatments is mandatory. We have previously demonstrated that the drug dipyridamole (DIP), an enhancer of adenosine signaling, can reduce the pathological phenotype in patient‐derived fibroblasts. In this paper, we evaluated the in vivo effects of DIP in NPC1 mice. Male and female NPC1nih mice were treated with DIP 30 mg/kg i.p. from 28 to 64 days of age. Motor function was assessed by Erasmus Ladder test, hippocampal cognitive decline by Novel Object Recognition test and brain pathology by immunofluorescence and biochemical assays. Peripheral pathology was evaluated by analyzing lipid accumulation in spleen and liver (HP‐TLC). In NPC1, mice DIP rescued recognition memory and increased hippocampal expression of calbindin. On the contrary, the drug was unable to improve motor function, cerebellar pathology and lipid accumulation in spleen and liver. Our results demonstrated that DIP selectively ameliorates the cognitive impairment in NPC1 mice. This drug could thus represent a valuable therapeutic tool to be used in combination with other treatments in NPC1.
Effect of nitrogen levels on grain yield and quality in improving mid‐season japonica rice varieties
Authors: Wang Chen , Jing Wenjiang , Fa Xiaotong , Gu Jiayi , Wang Weilu , Zhu Kuanyu , Zhang Weiyang , Gu Junfei , Liu Lijun , Wang Zhiqin , Zhang Jianhua , Zhang Hao
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Nitrogen application is recognized as a principal factor influencing rice quality. However, there remains a paucity of research on the effects of different N levels on quality, particularly within the context of the improvement of rice varieties.

RESULTS

This study examined 14 mid‐season japonica rice varieties cultivated in Jiangsu province over the past 80 years under five N application levels (0, 90, 180, 270, and 360 kg N ha−1). The results showed that yield increased steadily as varieties improved at all N levels. For varieties from the 1950s to the 1990s, yields initially rose and then declined as N application rates increased, peaking at 270 kg N ha−1. In contrast, modern varieties (post‐2000) exhibited a consistent increase in yield with higher N application rates. Fitted equations indicated that maximum yields were achieved at optimal N levels of 237–278 kg N ha−1 for varieties from the 1950s–1990s and 229.25 kg N ha−1 for post‐2000 varieties.

As varieties improved, the content of brown, milled, and head milled rice, as well as albumen, gluten, and overall quality, increased. Conversely, chalkiness, protein content, gliadin and amylose content decreased, whereas gel consistency, breakdown, peak viscosity, and globulin showed no consistent pattern. Likewise, there was no consistent pattern in the tendency of starch to retrograde (as indicated by ‘setback’ values). Increasing N application rates enhanced the content of brown and milled rice, chalkiness, protein and its components, and the tendency of starch to retrograde (indicated by higher setback values). In contrast, amylose content, gel consistency, breakdown, peak viscosity, and overall taste quality declined with higher N levels.

The study compared rice varieties with high yields (exceeding 10 t ha−1) and good comprehensive taste scores (above 52), revealing that modern varieties Wuyunjing 24, Lianjing 7, Yanjing 4038, and Nanjing 9108 performed exceptionally well with 180 kg N ha−1 and 270 kg N ha−1.

CONCLUSION

Modern varieties, with optimal N application and management, can achieve both high yield and good quality effectively. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Lack of Evidence for the Efficacy of Antifungal Medications to Treat Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Andrade Luis F. , Ju Teresa , Abdi Parsa , Anderson Michael R. , Edwards Elise , Khalil Nicole , Burke Olivia , Jaguan Daniella , Silverberg Jonathan I.
Published: December 2024

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterised by immune dysregulation and skin‐barrier dysfunction, which can predispose to microbial dysbiosis and skin infections. Fungi, particularly Malassezia, are common skin colonisers in AD patients and may exacerbate the condition. Previous studies on the efficacy of antifungal treatments for AD have shown inconsistent results.

Objectives

This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of topical and oral antifungal therapies in treating AD.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022338791). Databases searched included PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, LILACS, Cochrane, CINAHL, GREAT, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Inclusion criteria encompassed interventional studies using antifungal agents for AD, with outcomes such as SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD).

Results

Of 35,591 studies obtained from the initial search, seven met the inclusion criteria. Topical antifungal treatments, such as sertaconazole, miconazole, and ciclopirox olamine, showed minimal efficacy in reducing AD severity when compared to placebo or hydrocortisone treatments. Oral antifungal treatments, including itraconazole and ketoconazole, demonstrated mixed results, with some studies showing modest improvements in SCORAD scores but overall lacking significant clinical benefit.

Conclusions

The systematic review found weak evidence supporting the efficacy of both topical and oral antifungal therapies for treating AD. Topical antifungals showed limited improvement and fewer adverse effects, while oral antifungals posed a higher risk of systemic adverse events without consistent efficacy. Based on these findings, antifungal treatments are not recommended for AD severity management alone other than for treatment of comorbid fungal and yeast infections. Future research should focus on larger sample sizes, standardised severity assessments, and comprehensive adverse event reporting to better evaluate antifungal treatments in AD.
NEDD4L inhibits epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer by mediating BICC1 ubiquitination
Authors: Duan Shaoyi , Tian Zhiliang , Hu Rong , Long Heng
Published: December 2024

Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical stage in the metastasis of gastric cancer (GC). Further clarification of the EMT process in GC is still needed. This study examined the effects of the NEDD4L/BICC1 axis on GC proliferation and the EMT process. Thirty GC patients were enrolled in this study to assess the expression of BICC1 and NEDD4L in tumor samples. A xenograft tumor model in mice was created to investigate BICC1's function in vivo. The proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells were evaluated using colony formation, transwell, and wound healing assays. Western blot determined the expression levels of EMT‐associated proteins. Co‐immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) elucidated the mechanism by which NEDD4L regulates BICC1. BICC1 was found to be overexpressed in tumors. Additionally, BICC1 knockdown inhibited the growth of GC cells in vivo and prevented their migration, invasion, proliferation, and EMT. Furthermore, BICC1 activated the PI3K/AKT pathway, which facilitated cancer progression. Tumor tissues and GC cells exhibited low expression levels of NEDD4L. Conversely, NEDD4L overexpression promoted the ubiquitination and degradation of BICC1 protein, thereby inhibiting GC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT processes. Our study demonstrated that NEDD4L acts as a tumor suppressor in GC, while BICC1 functions as a pro‐tumorigenic factor. The NEDD4L/BICC1 axis plays a significant role in the metastasis and progression of GC.
The impact of the muscle mass‐to‐fat ratio on the prognosis of patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Xu Long‐Jie , Zhang Sheng‐Qiang , Cao Chun
Published: December 2024

To evaluate the relationship between the muscle mass‐to‐fat ratio (MMFR) at the third lumbar spine (L3) and overall survival (OS) as well as related complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for pancreatic cancer. Patients who underwent PD for pancreatic cancer between March 2017 and May 2023 at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University were included. Muscle mass and fat content at the L3 were measured by computed tomography. The specific formula that was used to calculate the MMFR was total abdominal muscle area/(subcutaneous adipose tissue area + visceral adipose tissue area), and the optimal cutoff values of the MMFR based on receiver operating characteristic curves were 0.688 for males and 0.382 for females. Patient characteristics were collected, and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the impact of the MMFR on prognosis. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and log‐rank tests were used to compare OS between the high‐MMFR and low‐MMFR groups. On the basis of the optimal cutoff values, 191 patients were divided into two groups, with 91 patients in the low‐MMFR group and 100 patients in the high‐MMFR group. The incidence of POPF was significantly greater in the low‐MMFR group than in the high‐MMFR group. According to multivariate analysis, the MMFR was an independent factor associated with POPF and OS. Patients with low MMFRs had significantly shorter OS and a greater POPF incidence than did those with high MMFRs. The MMFR is an independent predictor of POPF and affects the OS of patients undergoing PD for pancreatic cancer.
Intrapolyp Steroid Injection for Nasal Polyposis: A Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Albazee Ebraheem , Abu‐Zaid Ahmed , Althaidy Mubarak , Alqunaee Marwan
Published: December 2024

Objective

To conduct a systematic review and network meta‐analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intrapolyp steroid injection compared with oral steroids, nasal steroid wash, nasal steroid spray, and a control group in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and CENTRAL.

Review Methods

Both randomized and non‐randomized clinical trials were included. For risk of bias assessment, we used the RoB‐2 and ROBINS‐I tools. Our outcomes focused on safety and efficacy, including rates of visual disturbance and bleeding, as well as improvements in nasal polyps evaluated through three domains: endoscopic, radiologic, and patient‐reported assessments. Safety data were pooled as events (%), while efficacy data were pooled as mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD).

Results

Eight clinical trials involving 579 patients were analyzed. The pooled analyses showed low event rates for visual disturbances (event rate = 0.64%, 95% CI [0.00%, 2.23%]) and bleeding (event rate = 0.61%, 95% CI [0.00%, 2.25%]). Additionally, intrapolyp steroid injections were found to be comparable with oral steroids, with no statistically significant differences. Moreover, intrapolyp steroid injections demonstrated some superiority over nasal sprays, nasal washes, and the control group.

Conclusion

This network meta‐analysis confirms that intrapolyp steroid injections have a favorable safety and efficacy profile as a viable management option for CRSwNP. The injections showed comparable efficacy with oral steroids and demonstrated certain advantages over other treatments, such as nasal sprays and washes. Further research with larger sample sizes and standardized protocols are needed. Laryngoscope, 2024
Analysis of Potentials and Limitations of Safe Drinking Water in Rural Systems: A Colombian Perspective
Authors: Colmenares‐Cruz Ramiro Andrés , Plazas‐Leguizamón Nubia Zoraida , Arias‐Rodríguez Luis Alejandro , Moreno‐López Nidia Milena , Barrera‐Siabato Andrea Isabel , Fonseca‐Carreño Jorge Armando
Published: December 2024

Considering the meaning of the hydric resource regarding the formation of territories and its connection to agriculture development, present review paper aims to analyze the actual context of rural water systems in Colombia. For this, scientific information was acquired using Scopus through the search formula: “sustainability AND aqueduct” as well as information gather from national and regional public institutions websites with the intention to stablish an international and national context using meta‐analysis PRISMA method. To determine the service cycle of the search formula, information was subjected to lineal regression by considering the determination coefficient (R
2) and analyzing information taking as a reference the inflection point. Like that, each resulted document from the search were studied to then select those with grater relation towards the goals. Background information allowed to understand that aqueducts are fundamental organizations for sustainable development offering a reasonable access to clean water through its management and also showing that, regardless of existent challenges around its administration, it is necessary to implement policies that offer articulated and comprehensive solutions with participant elements as it is outlined on Colombia's National Development Plan, aiming to guarantee sustainable and equal access to water source.
Intercropping With Green Manure Regulates Microbial Community Structure and Improves Tea Quality by Changing Soil Available Nutrients Under Organic Management
Authors: Wang Biao , Huang Xinhui , Chen Jianfeng , Fu Libo , Chen Yuanquan , Gao Wangsheng , Sui Peng
Published: December 2024

Intercropping with green manure is recognized as a sustainable and ecological agricultural practice that regulates soil microbial activity and promotes plant growth. Despite its potential benefits, the impact of tea plants intercropping green manure on organic plantations remains largely unexplored. This study primarily evaluated the effects of intercropping summer green manure and winter green manure (TSR: tea intercropping soybean + ryegrass; TMR: tea intercropping mung bean + radish; TSC: tea intercropping soybean + common vetch; TM: tea plant monoculture, consider as control) on soil microbial community composition, tea quality, and bacterial function in an organic tea plantation. Relative to TM, TMR improved soil physical structure by decreasing the soil penetration resistance and bulk density by 30.4% and 9.30% (p < 0.05), thus creating a conducive environment for microbial growth and activity. The composition and beta diversity of microbial communities have markedly differed after intercropping, attributed to changes in soil available nutrients, enzyme activities, and soil compaction. Intercropping increased the relative abundance of key microbial phyla, including Acidobacteriota, Firmicutes, Chytridiomycota, and Rozellomycota. Notably, TSR and TSC enhanced nitrogen fixation function by enriching beneficial microorganisms, such as Bradyrhizobium and Clostridium_beijerinckii, which were mediated by soil available potassium. The content of amino acids in tea leaves was increased by 20.2% under TMR. The partial least squares path model further revealed that intercropping with green manure improved tea quality by decreasing soil penetration resistance and increasing soil available phosphorus. Overall, intercropping with green manure can effectively reshape the microbial community and improve tea quality by affecting the soil environment, underscoring the importance of adopting intercropping strategies in organic plantations.