bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishment of an Early Prediction Model for Severe Fever With Thrombocytopenia Syndrome‐Associated Encephalitis
Authors: Liu Yijiang , Zhu Naisheng , Qin Zimeng , He Chenzhe , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Hongbo , Cao Ke , Yu Wenkui
Published: December 2024

Background

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infectious disease primarily transmitted by ticks. The development of encephalitis in SFTS patients significantly increases the risk of adverse outcomes. However, the understanding of SFTS‐associated encephalitis (SFTSAE) is still limited. This study aimed to identify the clinical characteristics of SFTSAE and develop a predictive model for early detection.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from 220 SFTS patients admitted to Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital between May 2019 and January 2024. The patients were first randomly divided into a training set (154 people, 70%) and a validation set (66 people, 30%). The patients in the training set were divided into SFTSAE and non‐SFTSAE groups according to the presence of encephalitis. A prediction model was constructed using the training set: important clinical parameters were selected using univariate logistic regression, and then multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine the independent risk factors for SFTSAE. A prediction model was constructed using these independent risk factors. Finally, the validation set was used to verify the predictive ability of the model.

Results

Age, C‐reactive protein, d‐dimer, and viral load were independent risk factors for SFTSAE (p < 0.05). A nomogram containing these four indicators was constructed, and the predictive performance of the nomogram was evaluated using the ROC curve. The AUC of the model was 0.846 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.770–0.921), which had good predictive ability for SFTSAE.

Conclusion

Conclusion: The overall mortality rate of SFTS patients was 17.53%, and the mortality rate of encephalitis patients was 50%. Old age, high C‐reactive protein, elevated d‐dimer, and high viral load were independent risk factors for SFTSAE. The nomogram constructed based on these four indicators had good predictive ability and could be used as an evaluation tool for clinical treatment.
The Joint Effect of Renal Function Status and Coagulation Biomarkers on In‐Hospital Outcomes in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients With Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Lu Manli , Xue Junwen , Wang Yi , Chen Dongqin , Cao Yongjun , Zhong Chongke , Zhang Xia
Published: December 2024

Objective

To demonstrate whether combining renal function status [estimating glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)] with coagulation biomarkers [fibrinogen (Fg) and d‐dimer] is more beneficial in predicting in‐hospital outcomes following intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients.

Methods

We studied 417 AIS patients with IVT. According to the cut‐offs of coagulation biomarkers (Fg and d‐dimer) and eGFR determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the patients were divided into four groups: LFLG (low Fg and low eGFR), LFHG (low Fg and high eGFR), HFLG (high Fg and low eGFR), and HFHG (high Fg and high eGFR); or LDLG (low d‐dimer and low eGFR), LDHG (low d‐dimer and high eGFR), HDLG (high d‐dimer and low eGFR), and HDHG (high d‐dimer and high eGFR). Logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for poor outcomes at discharge and post‐stroke pneumonia across the four groups.

Results

The patients in the HFLG and HDLG groups had the poorest prognosis at discharge and the highest risk of in‐hospital pneumonia. They experienced 3.00 or 4.59 times higher risk of in‐hospital pneumonia than those in the LFHG and LDHG groups (95%CI: 1.07–8.44, p < 0.05; 95%CI: 1.58–13.32, p = 0.005). Similarly, the risk of adverse outcome at discharge was 3.02 and 1.52 times higher in HFLG and HDLG groups (95%CI: 1.63–9.91, p < 0.005; 95%CI: 1.11–5.74, p < 0.05) compared to that in LFHG and LDHG groups. Adding eGFR and Fg or d‐dimer to the risk model improved the risk reclassification for in‐hospital pneumonia and functional outcomes at discharge.

Conclusion

Combining renal function status and coagulation biomarkers within 4.5 h after onset could better predict in‐hospital outcomes of AIS patients with IVT.
Pollination research in India: Current status, future vision and conservation implications
Authors: Adit Arjun , Singh Vineet Kumar , Tandon Rajesh , Shivanna Kundaranahalli Ramalingaiah
Published: December 2024

Pollination is a dynamic ecological interaction, that has evolved to promote the survival and reproductive success of flowering plants and their pollinators. Human‐induced environmental changes in recent decades have reduced the density and diversity of pollinators and have resulted in a global pollinator crisis. Western countries have realized this problem since the beginning of this century and extensive research has been going on to study pollinators and pollination in both wild and crop species. To mitigate the crisis, considerable success has been achieved in these countries. In India, investigations on plant‐pollinator interaction, as well as global pollinator‐crisis have received very little attention in spite of its rich biodiversity. So far, the contribution from the Indian region towards pollination biology is merely 5% of the world. This review summarizes limited data available on pollination ecology, analyses possible reasons for this situation, highlights the importance of initiating serious studies on pollinators and pollination and provides a roadmap. It is concluded that a collaborative initiative involving the scientific community, society and policymakers is a prerequisite to achieve the objectives of biodiversity conservation and crop productivity in the country.
Proximal tibial anatomical axis and anterior tibial cortex‐based measurements of posterior tibial slope on lateral radiographs differ least from actual posterior tibial slope—A biomechanical study
Authors: Peez Christian , Waider Caroline , Deichsel Adrian , Briese Thorben , Palma Kries Lucas K. , Herbst Elmar , Raschke Michael J. , Kittl Christoph
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To compare different measurement techniques of the posterior tibial slope (PTS) on lateral radiographs with the actual in situ PTS and evaluate the effect of tibial malrotation and image section length.

Methods

Actual PTS was measured on eight fresh‐frozen tibiae using a portable 6‐axis measuring arm with an accuracy of ±0.01°. True lateral radiographs were taken in the neutral position and after applying 10/20/30° internal/external rotation (IR/ER) and 5/10/15° varus/valgus rotation. The PTS was measured radiographically using five different reference axes: anterior tibial cortex (ATC), anatomical tibial axis, proximal tibial anatomical axis (PTAA), posterior tibial cortex (PTC) and fibular shaft axis (FSA).

Results

The ATC and PTAA methods showed the lowest deviation from the actual PTS, while the PTC method showed the highest difference of 5.5 ± 1.5° (medial) and 7.1 ± 1.8° (lateral) among all tested methods (p < .001). The PTAA technique showed a 1.9 ± 1.4° (medial) and 2.9 ± 1.8° (lateral) difference from the actual slope (n.s.). ER caused the PTS to increase 0.7 ± 2.0° (10° ER, n.s.) to 3.4 ± 2.1° (30° ER, p < .05), whereas IR caused the PTS to decrease 1.6 ± 1.3° (n.s) to 4.1 ± 1.7° (p < .05) when comparing to the PTAA method for the neutral position. Varus and valgus rotation showed the highest deviation from the neutral rotation at 15° valgus (3.1 ± 2.1°, n.s.).

Conclusion

Tibial slope measurements have a high degree of variability between different measurement methods, while the ATC and PTAA methods showed the least deviation from the actual PTS measured in this in vitro model. Malrotation resulted in a severe distortion of the PTS values, which may alter preoperative planning and intraoperative results. Therefore, radiographic PTS measurements may be contrasted with more objective, reproducible and reliable measuring methods.

Level of Evidence

There is no level of evidence as this study was an experimental laboratory study.
Seasonal mRNA Expression of Circadian Clock Genes in the Lizard Brain
Authors: Grossen Taylor L. , Bunnam Alexus , Cohen Rachel E.
Published: December 2024

Seasonally breeding animals undergo physiological and behavioral changes to time reproduction to occur during specific seasons. These changes are regulated by changing environmental conditions, which may be communicated to the brain using the central circadian clock. This clock consists of a daily oscillation in the expression of several core genes, including period (per), cryptochrome (cry), circadian locomotor output cycles kaput (clock), and basic helix‐loop‐helix ARNT‐like protein 1 (bmal1). We began to examine seasonal regulation of four core circadian clock genes in a dissection of the reptile brain containing the hypothalamus—per1, cry1, bmal1 and clock. Our study focused on examining mRNA expression in the morning and compared levels between breeding and nonbreeding animals. We found that per1 and bmal1 mRNA expression was highest in the nonbreeding compared to breeding season in the anole hypothalamus. We also found that cry1 mRNA expression was higher in the female compared to the male anole hypothalamus. We found support for the idea that core circadian genes play a role in regulating changes between the seasons and/or sexes, although more work is needed to elucidate what processes might be differentially regulated. To our knowledge, this is the first examination of the expression of these four genes in the reptilian brain.
Defining Renal Recovery in Patients With Hepatorenal Syndrome‐Acute Kidney Injury: Experience From North American Studies
Authors: Mujtaba Muhammad A. , Elsiesy Hussien , Faiz Sara , Hussain Syed A. , Gamilla‐Crudo Ann Kathleen N. , Karim Aftab , Khan Mohammad Irfan , Khattak Muhammad Waqar , Zafar Zunaira , Kueht Michael , Jamil Khurram
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The degree of improvement in serum creatinine (SCr) has previously been suggested as a sensitive indicator of treatment response in patients with hepatorenal syndrome‐acute kidney injury (HRS‐AKI), while HRS reversal remains the primary endpoint in clinical trials.

Methods

A total of ≥ 30% SCr improvement was analyzed as an exploratory prespecified endpoint in the CONFIRM trial. In this post hoc analysis, intent‐to‐treat population data from three Phase 3 studies (OT‐0401, REVERSE, and CONFIRM) conducted in North America in patients with HRS‐AKI were pooled to assess the incidence of > 30% improvement in SCr and its association with clinical outcomes.

Results

Significantly more patients treated with terlipressin achieved > 30% improvement in SCr compared with those who received a placebo (42.9% vs. 23.4%; p < 0.001). Compared with patients who did not achieve > 30% improvement in SCr, those who achieved this threshold had a lower incidence of renal replacement therapy (RRT) (55.2% vs. 14%, respectively; p < 0.001) and greater overall survival at Day 90 (41.6% vs. 71.1%, respectively; p < 0.001); a greater proportion achieved durability of HRS reversal (1% [95% confidence interval, 95% CI: 0] vs. 68.9% [95% CI: 0.6, 0.8]) and more patients were alive without RRT (22.7% vs. 61.6%, respectively; p < 0.001) or transplant (11.6% vs. 43.0%, respectively; p < 0.0001). Additionally, the overall survival and RRT‐free survival in the group that achieved > 30% improvement in SCr without HRS reversal were comparable to the overall group that achieved HRS reversal.

Conclusion

A total of > 30% improvement in SCr levels even without HRS reversal may serve as a clinically meaningful endpoint to define renal recovery in patients with HRS‐AKI.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Elderly Patients With Upper Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Vietnam
Authors: Ho Loi N. , Quach Duc T.
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim

Helicobacter pylori infection is a major cause of peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. Limited data exist on H. pylori prevalence and risk factors of infection among elderly individuals in Vietnam. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of H. pylori infection in elderly Vietnamese patients with upper gastrointestinal symptoms.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted on patients aged ≥ 60 years with upper gastrointestinal symptoms who underwent endoscopy. The exclusion criteria included recent antibiotic or proton pump inhibitor use, prior H. pylori eradication, or upper gastrointestinal surgery. Data on demographics, hygiene, diet, and history were collected through structured questionnaires. H. pylori was diagnosed by a rapid urease test. Logistic regression was used to analyze risk factors.

Results

Of 406 participants (mean age 65.4 ± 4.5 years, male‐to‐female ratio 1:2), H. pylori prevalence was 55.6%. The risk factors for H. pylori infection included infrequent tooth brushing (OR 18.14, 95% CI 3.94–83.55), overweight/obesity (OR 5.82, 95% CI 3.44–9.88), spicy food consumption (OR 5.18, 95% CI 2.74–9.79), a family history of upper gastrointestinal symptoms (OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.84–5.39), and cat ownership (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.10–3.68). The vegetarian diet was protective (OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.01–0.18).

Conclusions

H. pylori prevalence in elderly Vietnamese is high, with risk factors including poor hygiene, obesity, spicy food, family history, and cat ownership. A vegetarian diet may be protective.
Expression of serum miR‐135a in patients with allergic rhinitis and its relationship with Treg/Th17 balance
Authors: Cai Jing , Wang Fang , Shi Sheng‐Liu
Published: December 2024

The dysregulation of microRNA (miRNA) expression contributes to the development of allergic rhinitis (AR). This study investigates serum miR‐135a levels and their association with regulatory T cell (Treg) and T helper cell 17 (Th17) balance in AR patients. A total of 93 AR patients and 76 healthy controls were retrospectively recruited. Levels of serum miR‐135a, peripheral blood Th17 and Treg cells, and Treg/Th17‐related cytokines were measured. We assessed the diagnostic value of serum miR‐135a for AR and its relationship with Treg/Th17 balance. AR patients showed significantly elevated immunoglobulin E (IgE), peripheral blood Th17 cells, and IL‐17 and IL‐6 levels, alongside reduced serum miR‐135a, Treg cells, IL‐10, TGF‐β1, and Treg/Th17 ratios. A serum miR‐135a of ≤0.536 demonstrated diagnostic potential for AR. Patients with higher serum miR‐135a levels displayed increased Treg cell level and Treg/Th17 ratios, reduced Th17 cell, and lower total nasal symptom score (TNSS). Serum miR‐135a levels in AR patients negatively correlated with TNSS, IL‐17, IL‐6, and Th17 cell percentages, and positively correlated with IL‐10, TGF‐β1, Treg cell percentages, and Treg/Th17 ratios. Collectively, decreased serum miR‐135a levels in AR patients are associated with Treg/Th17 balance, supporting miR‐135a as a potential biomarker for AR diagnosis.
Three‐dimensional modeling of electromagnetic field and fluid flow during solidification of an aluminum alloy in a pulsed magnetic field
Authors: Teng Y. F. , Zheng C. , Li Y. J. , Luo T. J. , Feng X. H. , Zhu C. , Yang Y. S.
Published: December 2024

Three‐dimensional finite element models were built to describe the distribution of electromagnetic fields and fluid fields under a low frequency low voltage time‐dependent pulsed magnetic field. The simulation results showed that eddy current circling around the axis of the melt can be induced by pulsed magnetic field. Periodic positive‐negative Lorentz force in the melt was induced from the interaction between the current and magnetic field. The effects generated by the pulsed magnetic field included vibration, fluid flow and Joule heat. The melt flowed in the form of a multi‐circle and the fluid velocity was composed of a base component and a pulse component. The temperature in the melt was homogeneous because of the fluid flow. Melt temperatures were measured and compared with the simulated results during solidification process of aluminum alloy A356 (Al−Si alloy), which qualitatively confirmed the decrease of temperature gradient. Moreover, the effects of material resistivity and electromagnetic parameters of the pulsed magnetic field were investigated. Materials with smaller resistivity took larger electromagnetic force. The fluid flowed much faster under larger excitation current density and frequency. Finally, the grain refinement mechanisms under the pulsed magnetic field were analyzed.
Enhancing Multilingual Patient Education: ChatGPT's Accuracy and Readability for SSNHL Queries in English and Spanish
Authors: Ajit‐Roger Emily , Moise Alexander , Peralta Carolina , Orishchak Ostap , Daniel Sam J.
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study investigates ChatGPT's accuracy, readability, understandability, and actionability in responding to patient queries on sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) in English and Spanish, when compared to Google responses. The objective is to address concerns regarding its proficiency in addressing medical inquiries when presented in a language divergent from its primary programming.

Study Design

Observational.

Setting

Virtual environment.

Methods

Using ChatGPT 3.5 and Google, questions from the AAO‐HNSF guidelines were presented in English and Spanish. Responses were graded by 2 otolaryngologists proficient in both languages using a 4‐point Likert scale and the PEMAT‐P tool. To ensure uniform application of the Likert scale, a third independent evaluator reviewed the consistency in grading. Readability was evaluated using 3 different tools specific to each language. IBM SPSS Version 29 was used for statistical analysis using one‐way analysis of variance.

Results

Across both languages, the responses displayed a native‐level language proficiency. Accuracy was comparable between sources and languages. Google's Spanish responses had better readability (effect size 0.35, P < .001), while Google's English responses were more understandable (effect size 0.67, P = .018). ChatGPT's English responses demonstrated the highest level of actionability (60%), though not significantly different when compared to other sources (effect size 0.47, P = .14).

Conclusion

ChatGPT offers patients comprehensive and guideline‐conforming answers to SSNHL patient medical queries in the 2 most spoken languages in the United States. However, improvements in its readability and understandability are warranted for more accessible patient education.
Effect of Ionic‐Electronic Coupling on the Percolation Phenomenon of Polymer/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Al‐Bataineh Qais M. , Ahmad Ahmad A. , Migdadi A. B. , Telfah Ahmad D.
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the effect of ionic‐electronic coupling on the percolation phenomenon of polyethylene oxide (PEO)/rGO nanocomposite films by adding KOTf because the rGO exhibits electronic conductivity and KOTf exhibits ionic conductivity. The electrical conductivity curve of PEO/rGO nanocomposite films exhibits a sharp rise in the percolation zone, followed by constant values in the conductive zone, indicating the formation of rGO conductive pathways through the PEO matrix. On the other hand, introducing KOTf in PEO/rGO nanocomposite films increases the maximum electrical conductivity from to , due to the high ionic‐electronic coupling through the polymer matrix at the interface between phase‐separated regions. Scanning electron micrographs revealed the distribution and morphology of PEO/rGO and PEO/rGO/KOTf nanocomposite films. Finally, the feasibility of using PEO/rGO and PEO/rGO/KOTf nanocomposite films in the conductive zone as an electrochemical charge storage device is investigated. We can conclude that PEO/rGO/KOTf nanocomposite films can be used in several potential applications, including high‐performance UV‐photodetectors, photoactive layers in solar cells, and energy storage devices.
Immunization‐related complex regional pain syndrome: A systematic review of case reports
Authors: Copenhaver William K. , Goodwin Brandon J. , Simonetti Alexa , Shah Kunal P. , Averell Nicholas J. , Lo David F. , Jermyn Richard T.
Published: December 2024

Aim

Vaccines have been shown to have the highest efficacy in preventing infectious diseases through their ability to induce immunological memory against pathogens. An adverse reaction to a vaccine is an unexpected medical occurrence following immunization. Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a disease that has undergone much controversy regarding its onset post‐vaccination. This systematic review aims to evaluate cases of CRPS post‐vaccination to better understand the manifestation of the disease and its potential association with vaccines.

Methods

A systematic review of case reports was conducted employing the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Outcomes of interest include type of vaccination, patient age, patient sex, time to symptom onset, and medical history including but not limited to previous autoimmune diseases, psychological illness, physical tissue trauma, and neurological disease.

Results

Initial querying of the five databases yielded 404 articles. Following a thorough review of articles, only 14 remained, comprising 18 cases. Studies included cases of CRPS development following tetanus, hepatitis B, hepatitis A, rubella, influenza, tetanus–diphtheria, human papillomavirus, and COVID‐19 vaccine administration.

Conclusion

The limitations of evidence used in this study highlight the need for a greater output of higher‐level evidence in the form of controlled trials and retrospective studies to help further elucidate the connection between vaccine use and the development of CRPS in patients. Currently, vaccines continue to be safe for global public use.
Confronting the Taboo of Multifetal Pregnancy Reduction: A Qualitative Study of Maternal Decision‐Making in Triplet Pregnancies
Authors: van Baar P. M. , Arnoldussen R. , Pajkrt E. , de Boer M. A. , de Groot C. J. M. , Broekman B. F. P. , van Pampus M. G.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To explore the personal experiences of women faced with the decision to continue a triplet pregnancy or undergo multifetal pregnancy reduction.

Methods

A qualitative study with semi‐structured interviews was conducted between October 2021 and April 2023. Participants included women who continued a triplet pregnancy, and those who underwent multifetal pregnancy reduction from triplet to twins or singletons, 1–6 years post‐decision. Interviews focused on: (1) the decision‐making process, and (2) the emotional aspects and psychological impact of the decision. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns, involving familiarization, defining themes, and producing the final report.

Results

Data saturation was achieved after 16 interviews, revealing two main themes: (1) maternal intuition as a guiding force, and (2) navigating the crossroads: coping and reflection on the decision. These themes illustrate an interplay between maternal intuition and intrinsic feelings in the decision whether to perform multifetal pregnancy reduction, seemingly less influenced by external factors. Mothers who adhere to their intuition (15/16) have a low likelihood of experiencing regret. Despite the inclination to share and seek support, a persistent taboo surrounds the topic of multifetal pregnancy reduction. The findings also emphasize a considerable gap in aftercare for women, regardless of their decision.

Conclusion

There is a need for improved care and support for parents facing the decision of continuing a triplet pregnancy or deciding on multifetal pregnancy reduction. Efforts should focus on fostering open societal dialog about this taboo subject, and addressing the gap in aftercare to provide comprehensive support to women post‐decision and post‐birth, thereby establishing a more supportive and compassionate framework.
The challenges for developing prognostic prediction models for acute kidney injury in hospitalized children: A systematic review
Authors: Wang Chen , Liu Xiaohang , Zhang Chao , Yan Ruohua , Li Yuchuan , Peng Xiaoxia
Published: December 2024

Importance

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in hospitalized children which could rapidly progress into chronic kidney disease if not timely diagnosed. Prognostic prediction models for AKI were established to identify AKI early and improve children's prognosis.

Objective

To appraise prognostic prediction models for pediatric AKI.

Methods

Four English and four Chinese databases were systematically searched from January 1, 2010, to June 6, 2022. Articles describing prognostic prediction models for pediatric AKI were included. The data extraction was based on the CHecklist for critical Appraisal and data extraction for systematic Reviews of prediction Modelling Studies checklist. The risk of bias (ROB) was assessed according to the Prediction model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool guideline. The quantitative synthesis of the models was not performed due to the lack of methods regarding the meta‐analysis of prediction models.

Results

Eight studies with 16 models were included. There were significant deficiencies in reporting and all models were considered at high ROB. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve to predict AKI ranged from 0.69 to 0.95. However, only about one‐third of models have completed internal or external validation. The calibration was provided only in four models. Three models allowed easy bedside calculation or electronic automation, and two models were evaluated for their impacts on clinical practice.

Interpretation

Besides the modeling algorithm, the challenges for developing prediction models for pediatric AKI reflected by the reporting deficiencies included ways of handling baseline serum creatinine and age‐dependent blood biochemical indexes. Moreover, few prediction models for pediatric AKI were performed for external validation, let alone the transformation in clinical practice. Further investigation should focus on the combination of prediction models and electronic automatic alerts.
Oligomerization‐mediated phase separation in the nucleoid‐associated sensory protein H‐NS is controlled by ambient cues
Authors: Lukose Bincy , Goyal Saloni , Naganathan Athi N.
Published: December 2024

H‐NS, a nucleoid‐associated protein (NAP) from enterobacteria, regulates gene expression by dynamically transducing environmental cues to conformational assembly and DNA binding. In this work, we show that H‐NS from Escherichia coli, which can assemble into octameric and tetrameric oligomerization states, forms spontaneous micron‐sized liquid‐like condensates with DNA at sub‐physiological concentrations in vitro. The heterotypic condensates are metastable at 298 K, partially solubilizing with time, while still retaining their liquid‐like properties. The condensates display UCST‐like phase behavior solubilizing at higher temperatures, but with a large decrease in droplet‐assembly propensities at 310 K and at higher ionic strength. Condensate formation can be tuned in a cyclic manner between 298 and 310 K with the extent of reversibility determined by the incubation time, highlighting strong hysteresis. An engineered phospho‐mimetic variant of H‐NS (Y61E), which is dimeric and only weakly binds DNA, is unable to form condensates. The Y61E mutant solubilizes pre‐formed H‐NS condensates with DNA in a few minutes with nearly an order of magnitude speed‐up in droplet dissolution at 310 K relative to 298 K, demonstrating rapid molecular transport between dilute and condensed phases. Our results establish that the oligomerization of H‐NS is intrinsically tied not only to DNA binding but also its phase‐separation tendencies, while showcasing the regulatable and programmable nature of heterotypic condensates formed by an archetypal NAP via multiple cues and their lifetimes.
Smart Polymer‐Based Delivery Systems for Curcumin in Colon Cancer Therapy: A Review
Authors: Kamath Adithya Jayaprakash , Donadkar Asawari Dilip , Nair Bhagyalakshmi , Kumar Ayana R. , Sabitha M. , Sethi Gautam , Chauhan Abhay Singh , Nath Lekshmi R.
Published: December 2024

Curcumin, a well‐known bioactive component, has profound effects against colon cancer. However, the limitations are poor systemic absorption, off‐target distribution, chemical instability, short half‐life, and less concentration reaching tumor tissues. Several drug delivery systems have been evaluated so far to deliver effective concentrations of curcumin to the malignant tissues. This review aims to explore the role of smart polymers in overcoming limitations in curcumin delivery against colon cancer. Literature of the past 10 years was collected from Scopus, PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, and Science Direct using specific keywords. Several preclinical and clinical studies of curcumin against colon cancer with the inclusion of smart polymers were screened using keywords like “FDA‐approved biomaterials,” “stimuli‐responsive polymer,” “smart biomaterial,” and so forth. Smart polymer phrase is used to describe all the mentioned polymers in the manuscript. Stimuli‐responsive polymers, including poly‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid (PLGA), polyethylene glycol (PEG), Eudragit, cyclodextrin, and chitosan, have emerged as promising candidates for curcumin delivery against colon cancer. These polymers facilitate controlled drug release in response to stimuli such as temperature, pH, and enzymes, while offering biocompatibility, biodegradability, and safety. The five selected FDA‐approved smart polymers exhibit the potential for enhancing curcumin delivery against colon cancer.
Ginsenosides From Panax ginseng Improves Hepatic Lipid Metabolism Disorders in HFD‐Fed Rats by Regulating Gut Microbiota and Cholesterol Metabolism Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zhu Yue , Zhang Kang‐xi , Bu Qing‐yun , Song Shu‐xia , Chen Yue , Zou Hong , You Xiao‐yan , Zhao Guo‐ping
Published: December 2024

A high‐fat diet (HFD) is often associated with hepatic lipid metabolism disorders, leading to dysfunction in multiple body systems. Ginsenosides derived from Panax ginseng have been reported to possess potential effects in ameliorating lipid metabolism disorders; however, their underlying mechanisms remain insufficiently explored. This study aims to investigate the bioactivities of ginsenosides in combating lipid metabolism disorders and obesity, with a focus on their mechanisms involving the cholesterol metabolism signaling pathway and gut microbiota. Our results demonstrated that ginsenoside treatment significantly reduced overall body weight, body weight changes, liver weight, and eWAT weight, as well as alleviated hepatic steatosis and dyslipidemia in HFD‐fed rats, without affecting food intake. These effects were dose‐dependent. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that ginsenosides significantly increased the relative abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila, Blautia, Eisenbergiella, Clostridium clusters XI, XVIII, and III, while decreasing the relative abundance of Clostridium subcluster XIVa and Dorea. In addition, ginsenoside treatment significantly regulated the expression of hepatic genes and proteins involved in the cholesterol metabolism signaling pathway (FXR, CYP7A1, CYP7B1, CYP27A1, ABCG5, ABCG8, Insig2, and Dhcr7), potentially inhibiting hepatic cholesterol biosynthesis while promoting cholesterol transport to HDL and its excretion via bile and feces. Notably, levels of 7‐dehydrocholesterol (7‐DHC) and 27‐hydroxycholesterol (27‐OHC) were reduced, while 5β,6β‐epoxycholesterol (5,6β‐epoxy) levels were elevated following ginsenoside treatment, indicating significant modulation of oxysterols by ginsenosides. Moreover, bile acid enterohepatic circulation was regulated through the enhancement of hepatic FXR‐CYP7A1 signaling and intestinal FXR‐FGF15 signaling in HFD‐fed rats treated with ginsenosides, which was closely linked to gut microbiota composition. Collectively, our findings suggest that ginsenosides alleviate hepatic lipid metabolism disorders by modulating gut microbiota and the cholesterol metabolism signaling pathway in HFD‐fed rats.
Achromobacter xylosoxidans totally implantable venous access device infection in a person with cystic fibrosis: Complex management considerations
Authors: Evans Ieuan E. S. , Haqqani Haris , Smith Daniel , Reid David W.
Published: December 2024

Totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) are frequently used in people with cystic fibrosis as a means of securing consistent vascular access, particularly in the context of severe disease and microbial colonization. Infection of TIVADs is not uncommon and typically associated with coagulase negative staphylococci, though infection with other organisms does occur too. We report on the first case of a TIVAD infection caused by Achromobacter xylosoxidans in person with cystic fibrosis. The TIVAD infection was complicated by a bacteraemia and an associated intracardiac infected thrombus at the superior atriocaval junction. We explore the complex management decisions surrounding the removal of the TIVAD and prolonged antibiotic treatment, with treatment ultimately resulting in a good outcome and full recovery. The case helps to serve as a timely reminder of requirement to review the necessity to retain TIVAD in the era of CFTR modulator therapy and associated improved health outcomes being experienced.
Assessment of the fracture properties of mortars reinforced with synthetic fibers
Authors: Ibrahim Haruna , Wardeh George , Fares Hanaa , Ghorbel Elhem
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the post‐cracking behavior of mortars reinforced with synthetic polypropylene fibers. To three series of mortars, normal strength (NSM), high strength (HSM), and high strength with fly ash (HSMFA), short and long, was introduced at 0.6% and 1% by volume, respectively. Pre‐notched 4 × 4 × 16 cm were used for 3‐point flexural tests, and the digital image correlation (DIC) method was employed to assess the load‐CMOD curves. Based on the experimental curves, a tri‐linear stress‐crack opening (σ‐w) relationship was used to develop an analytical model for the Mode I crack propagation, and the inverse analysis method was applied to optimize the model's parameters. The obtained parameters were compared to the fib MC2010 characteristic values related to serviceability and ultimate limit states. The results show that short fiber‐reinforced mortars exhibit a softening behavior regardless of the fiber dosage after a rapid drop once the tensile strength has been achieved. The three mortars incorporating long fiber reinforcement exhibit a very high deformation capacity and hardening behavior. For NSM, fibers appear to be more effective than HSM and HSMFA. All materials achieve the ultimate fracture opening of 2.5 mm, as defined by the fib MC2010, except 0.6% long fiber‐reinforced HSMFA. Compared to the reference mixture (mixture without fibers), adding synthetic fibers to the mortar did not exhibit a significant environmental and health impact.
Risk‐Averse Distributionally Robust Environmental‐Economic Dispatch Strategy Based on Renewable Energy Operation: A New Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Liu Yubing , Gao Guangkuo , Zhao Wenhui
Published: December 2024

Although the use of optimization techniques for environmental and economic dispatch of integrated electricity and natural gas systems has been widely applied, there are still significant challenges in meeting the multiple energy demands of conventional and renewable energy sources, mainly wind‐solar. In this study, Wasserstein distance is introduced to measure the randomness of wind‐solar power generation to construct the uncertainty set. A multi‐objective distributionally robust optimization (MODRO) environmental‐economic scheduling model for risk aversion that minimizes the risk cost, the system operation cost, and the carbon emission cost is proposed to achieve the balance between the risk cost, the operation cost, and the pollutant emission. To solve the model efficiently, the multi‐objective whale optimization algorithm (IMOWOA) was improved and used the 4‐node power system and the 7‐node natural gas system as case studies. The results show that the MODRO environmental‐economic scheduling model can measure the operational risk due to the stochastic fluctuation of wind‐solar energy sources, and provide an effective decision‐making tool for policymakers. Considering P2G technology and gas turbines at the same time, it promotes the coupled operation of electric‐gas integrated systems and achieves good economic efficiency. Thus, the model provides an effective solution for the stability, economy, and cleanliness of the integrated electric gas system. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Rare winter‐thunderstorms with hail overnight 12/13 December 2019 over Delhi and its vicinity: an observational study
Authors: Saha Upal , Prasad V. S. , Rani S. Indira , George John P.
Published: December 2024

A rare overnight thunderstorm with hail on 12/13 December 2019 over Delhi was driven by a Westerly Disturbance (WD) and analysed with the aid of multi‐platform observations. The Doppler weather radar (DWR) detected high reflectivity values (>50dBZ), indicating hail within towering convective clouds. In‐situ measurements showed intense rainfall (totalling ~134mm), accompanied by strong wind gusts and a rapid pressure drop. Satellite data revealed widespread cold cloud tops (<−50°C) associated with the deep convection, while radiosonde profiles indicated atmospheric instability and veering winds during its passage. Lightning observations confirmed energetic convective updrafts. The event highlights the impact of WDs in triggering severe and rare winter convective storms over northern India.
Riemannian Spin Manifolds
Authors: van Suijlekom Walter D.
Published: December 2024

We now extend our treatment of noncommutative geometric spaces from the finite case to the continuum. This generalizes spin manifolds to the noncommutative world. The resulting spectral triples (Chapter 5) form the key technical device in noncommutative geometry, and in the physical applications of Part 2 of this book in particular.
WTO Law’s Constraints on National Regulation
Authors: Zhao Xinyan
Published: December 2024

Under the current WTO framework, the sustainability of international trade hinges on the domestic regulation of WTO members. While WTO law acknowledges members’ sovereign right to regulate, its effectiveness in supporting the implementation of these regulatory measures is debatable. Does the sovereign right imply that WTO members can effectively enact and enforce their national laws and regulations related to sustainable development? This Chapter will address this question. It begins by reviewing the evolution of regulatory autonomy within international trade. Then, it explains the concept of regulatory autonomy in WTO law and presents various scholarly perspectives on the topic. Notably, it focuses on the theory of embedded liberalism, which scholars have widely used in recent years to argue that WTO rules effectively guarantee the regulatory autonomy of members. Exploring this theory will inform my observations on the extent of WTO members’ regulatory autonomy under current WTO rules. Finally, this Chapter systematically analyses the impact of the objective assessment standards of review and analytical frameworks under the WTO Agreements on the domestic regulatory autonomy of WTO members.
The effect of Door-to-Door on separate collection of plastic packaging: evidence from Catalonia
Authors: Bel Germà , Bühler Joël
Published: December 2024

In this article, we estimate the causal effect of the Door-to-Door waste collection policy on the collection of plastic waste in Catalonia. We use municipality-level data on the share of separately collected light packaging and apply a Difference-in-Differences framework. We find that Door-to-Door increased the share of separated light packaging by 80% compared to untreated units at the end of the sample period. Furthermore, our evidence indicates that there are no differences of Door-to-Door designs with source-separation of light packaging from other recyclable waste components compared to those where light packaging waste is collected with other materials and separated post-source. These findings highlight that Door-to-Door can be a highly effective measure to increase separate collection of light packaging, a precondition for ambitious plastics recycling goals legislated by policy makers.
A Qualitative Study Exploring the Sexual Experiences of Women with Disabilities in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Bolarinwa Obasanjo Afolabi , Odimegwu Clifford , Babalola Blessing Iretioluwa , Mohammed Aliu
Published: December 2024

As of 2021, 1.3 billion people globally live with disabilities, with 80% in low-and-middle-income countries and 12.8% in Africa. Women with disabilities often face gender-based discrimination and limited sexual autonomy, impacting their sexual health. Despite global progress, there is limited research on the sexuality of women with disabilities in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria. This study explores the sexual experiences of women with disabilities in Lagos, Nigeria. Using a qualitative approach, 24 women with disabilities, including blindness and mobility impairments, were interviewed to understand their experiences with sexual activity, autonomy, contraceptive use, risky behaviors, and sexual violence. The participants demographic shows that 67% of participants had physical disabilities, while 33% had visual impairments, with ages ranging from 20 to 45 and varying education and employment levels. Themes were generated around the experience of women with disabilities in sexual activities, modern contraceptive use, sexual autonomy, risky sexual behavior and sexual violence. Many participants did not see their disabilities as hindering sexual activity but faced challenges in relationships due to physical limitations and societal stigma. The study found mixed experiences with modern contraceptives, hindered by misconceptions and accessibility issues, and some women reported experiencing sexual violence and inadequate access to reproductive health resources and support. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including improved access to contraceptives, public education to reduce stigma, and enhanced legal protections to support the sexual and reproductive health of women with disabilities in Lagos.
Enhancing reliability with MIMO aided dual iterations for mobile video transmission system
Authors: Ahmed Ishtiaque , Ahmad Gulzar , Minallah Nasru , Frnda Jaroslav , Khalil Amaad , Jan Tariqullah , Khan Hameed Ullah
Published: December 2024

Futuristic requirements of mobile communication systems ask for discovering new possibilities and dimensions to enable ultrafast and reliable communication. This work relates to the advancements in jointly decoded iterative multimedia communication systems for the H.264 source standard. The beneficial technique of Over-Complete Mapping (OCM) is utilized for introducing redundancy in the highly compressed source encoded video streams. Differential Space–Time Spreading (DSTS) is invoked along with Rate-3/4 Recursive Systematic Convolutional (RSC) as intermediate encoder in the proposed three-stage setup. More specifically, the RSC encoder is beneficial in attaining the iterative gain as it divides the decoder into two parts. The DSTS is invoked with the Sphere Packing (SP) modulation which is highly desirable for the non-coherent detection schemes without requiring any information from the channel. The proposed system comprises of three main components, namely OCM, Rate-3/4 RSC and SP modules, thus we call this as three-stage system. The iterative decoding enhances the Bit-Error Rate (BER) and Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) performances of the joint source-channel systems. Furthermore, to expeditiously predict the convergence pattern of the proposed three-stage iteratively decoded systems, EXtrinsic Information Transfer (EXIT) chart analysis is performed. Moreover, the effect of variations in the minimum Hamming distance ($${d}_{H,min}$$

d

H
,
m
i
n

) is observed for the proposed three-stage system. The $${{DSTS}-{SP}-{RSC}-{OCM}}_{[5 15]}$$

DSTS

-

SP

-

RSC

-

OCM

[
515
]

having $${d}_{H,min}=6$$

d

H
,
m
i
n

=
6

exhibits a gain of 20 dB against the benchmarker $${{DSTS}-{SP}-{RSC}-{OCM}}_{[2 6]}^{*}$$

DSTS

-

SP

-

RSC

-

OCM

[
26
]

∗

with $${d}_{H,min}=1$$

d

H
,
m
i
n

=
1

at the PSNR degradation point of 1 dB over a correlated Rayleigh fading channel.
Enhanced Fault Classification in Bearings: A Multi-Domain Feature Extraction Approach with LSTM-Attention and LASSO
Authors: Hatipoğlu Ayşenur , Süpürtülü Meltem , Yılmaz Ersen
Published: December 2024

In various engineering fields, bearings are crucial for the operation of rotating machinery. Therefore, the early and precise detection of bearing failures is essential to prevent mechanical issues and maintain optimal machinery performance. This study proposes a fault classification framework based on multi-domain feature extraction, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method, long-short term memory, and the self-attention mechanism. Fifteen time-domain, five frequency-domain, and four chaotic-domain features are extracted from the raw data. To validate the model's accuracy and stability, datasets from the Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), a newly published dataset, and Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) were utilized. Experimental validation using open-source bearing datasets demonstrates that the proposed framework can be effectively deployed, highlighting its potential as a fundamental pillar in the field of intelligent manufacturing. The findings show that our model achieves an F1-score of 99.903% for the test set with nine selected features across 24, encompassing all five bearing categories within the HUST dataset. Furthermore, its application to the CWRU dataset yielded comparable metrics, reaching a 98.742% F1-score with eight selected features among 24 features. The objective is to achieve successful prediction outcomes with a reduced number of parameters and to emphasize the significance of incorporating chaotic features into the process for data sets characterized by chaotic processes.
Precision-Engineered Construction of Proton-Conducting Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Zhu Liyu , Yang Hongbin , Xu Ting , Shen Feng , Si Chuanling
Published: December 2024

Proton-conducting materials have attracted considerable interest because of their extensive application in energy storage and conversion devices. Among them, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) present tremendous development potential and possibilities for constructing novel advanced proton conductors due to their special advantages in crystallinity, designability, and porosity. In particular, several special design strategies for the structure of MOFs have opened new doors for the advancement of MOF proton conductors, such as charged network construction, ligand functionalization, metal-center manipulation, defective engineering, guest molecule incorporation, and pore-space manipulation. With the implementation of these strategies, proton-conducting MOFs have developed significantly and profoundly within the last decade. Therefore, in this review, we critically discuss and analyze the fundamental principles, design strategies, and implementation methods targeted at improving the proton conductivity of MOFs through representative examples. Besides, the structural features, the proton conduction mechanism and the behavior of MOFs are discussed thoroughly and meticulously. Future endeavors are also proposed to address the challenges of proton-conducting MOFs in practical research. We sincerely expect that this review will bring guidance and inspiration for the design of proton-conducting MOFs and further motivate the research enthusiasm for novel proton-conducting materials.