bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical trends in daily smoking and quitting by relationship status in Norway, 1973–2022
Authors: Lund Marianne , Lund Ingeborg
Published: September 2024

Aims:

This study aims to investigate trends in self-reported daily smoking and quitting by relationship status in 1973–2022.

Methods:

Repeated and representative cross-sectional tobacco surveys of the adult population in Norway were analysed in the age group 25–74 years. Logistic regression was used to estimate the adjusted predicted probability of daily smoking and former smoking for persons in a formalised relationship (married or cohabitant) and persons not in a formalised relationship.

Results:

Since the 1970s, the decline in daily smoking has been present for men regardless of relationship status, but with more smoking among men not in a relationship from the 2000s onward. For women not in a relationship, daily smoking increased among those not in a relationship from the mid-1980s, surpassing the smoking rate among men in a relationship. From the 1990s, daily smoking was higher in women not in a relationship compared with women in a relationship. In the past decade (2013–2022), the adjusted odds ratio of daily smoking was 0.49 for people in a relationship compared with those not in a relationship.

Conclusions:

Downward trends in daily smoking have been substantial the past 50 years, but differences by relationship status persist. Continued monitoring of smoking behaviour at the population level is crucial to uncover which demographic groups are lagging in the last phase of the tobacco epidemic.
One-step hydrothermal method for long-term anti-corrosion lanthanum-based superhydrophobic coating on Mg alloy
Authors: Song Zhengwei , Ding Lifeng , Zhang Shengjian , Zhang Haitao
Published: September 2024

The superhydrophobic coating was created on the surface of AZ31B using a one-step hydrothermal method. Various characterisation techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), contact angle goniometer, and electrochemical workstation, were employed to characterise its morphology, composition, hydrophobicity and corrosion resistance. The prepared coating from a 5-hour hydrothermal reaction exhibited a double-layer structure with a dense inner oxide layer and an outer layer of needle-like micro-nano structures. Achieving a water contact angle (WCA) as high as 159°, the superhydrophobic coating demonstrated low water adhesion and excellent self-cleaning properties. In a 3.5 wt-% NaCl aqueous solution, its corrosion rate was 5 orders of magnitude lower than that of the bare Mg alloy. Furthermore, the coating maintained a high impedance modulus value at 0.01 Hz (∼6.85 × 106 Ω cm2) after immersion in 3.5 wt-% NaCl solution for 25 days, which was attributed to the synergistic effect of the inner and outer layers. This study introduces a strategy for preparing long-term corrosion-resistant superhydrophobic coating on Mg alloy.
Surgical Treatment of Superior Vena Cava Syndrome in a Preterm Neonate
Authors: Alpat Safak , Alma Melih
Published: September 2024

Superior vena cava syndrome is rare and challenging clinical entity in neonates. Medical treatment options are usually effective. However, when failed, surgery is warranted. Herein, we present a preterm neonate with SVC syndrome and associated chylothorax. When 2 weeks old, he underwent successful open thrombectomy and SVC reconstruction under cardiopulmonary bypass. Immediately after the operation findings of SVC syndrome and chylotorax were completely resolved. To our knowledge, this patient is the smallest baby underwent open SVC reconstruction with cardiopulmonary bypass.
Biomechanical analysis of cadaveric wrists before and after MOTEC wrist arthroplasty using a hexapod robot
Authors: Bain Gregory I. , Bellringer Simon F. , Russo Michael P. , Amin Dhara , Costi John J.
Published: September 2024

This study compares wrist motion, biomechanical behaviour and radiographic parameters before and after total wrist arthroplasty using a fourth-generation spherical articulation prosthesis. A total of 10 cadaveric specimens were assessed using a hexapod Stewart platform robot. After arthroplasty, there were significant increases in both stiffness and phase angle of wrist motion across all planes of motion assessed. In three specimens, a sudden increase in moment was observed on load/displacement curves. Radiographically, carpal height increased by 14%, and the centre of rotation was displaced 11.1 mm proximally, 4.6 mm dorsally and 3.9 mm radially. This stretched the musculotendinous units, tightening the joint, while increasing the moment arm of the wrist flexors and decreasing the moment arm of the extensors, potentially important in the development of postoperative flexion contractures. Possible alterations in technique and/or implant design are considered to assist surgeons in achieving optimal clinical and survivorship outcomes.
Hemorrhagic complications after stroke treatment with intravenous thrombolysis despite use of direct oral anticoagulants: an observational study
Authors: Kleeberg Antonia , Ringleb Peter A. , Huber Ioana , Jesser Jessica , Möhlenbruch Markus , Purrucker Jan C.
Published: September 2024

Background:

For patients experiencing ischemic stroke despite receiving therapy with direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) and without endovascular treatment options, therapeutic prospects are currently dismal. Current guidelines recommend intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) only for patients who have received DOAC in very restricted settings, as an increased risk of bleeding is suspected. However, recent retrospective observational studies suggest that IVT is safe despite DOAC pretreatment.

Objectives:

To provide further evidence that IVT despite previous DOAC treatment is not associated with an increased risk of bleeding.

Design:

Observational retrospective study.

Methods:

Demographic, clinical, and radiological data of patients who received IVT (+/− endovascular thrombectomy) despite DOAC pretreatment between June 2021 and January 2024 were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including DOAC plasma concentration at admission. Secondary intracranial hemorrhages and functional outcomes at 3 months were assessed. Since 2023, patients have been treated according to a modified local standard operating procedure at our hospital, allowing for IVT despite DOAC pretreatment regardless of DOAC plasma levels or the use of reversal agents.

Results:

Of 1821 patients treated with acute recanalization procedures during the study period, N = 35 had received IVT with (18) or without (17) additional endovascular therapy. Among these patients with a wide age range (42–97 years) and DOAC plasma concentrations up to 369 ng/ml, only one developed symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. A favorable outcome (modified Rankin scale score 0–2) after 3 months was observed in 57% (20) of the patients.

Conclusion:

IVT despite direct oral anticoagulation seems to be safe, even at advanced age and high DOAC plasma levels.
Risk Factors for Sacroiliac Joint Fusion after Instrumented Spinal Fusion
Authors: Du Peter Z , Singh Gurmit , Smith Spencer , Philipp Travis , Kark Jonathan , Lin Clifford , Yoo Jung U
Published: September 2024

Study Design

Retrospective Cohort Study.

Objective

To identify risk factors for sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion after instrumented spinal fusion.

Methods

Patients were identified from the PearlDiver BiscayneBay database. Patients who underwent 1 level (CPT: 22840), 3-6 vertebral segment (22842), and 7+ vertebral segment spinal fusions (22843 and 22844) were identified. Patients were separated based on whether they received an SI joint fusion (27280 and 27279) after their spinal fusion. A univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression was performed to evaluate the associations between patient factors and incidence of SI joint fusion.

Results

549,625 patients who underwent posterior spinal fusions were identified, 6068 of whom underwent subsequent SI joint fusion (1.1%). Factors associated with future SI joint fusion included female gender, patients with obesity, fibromyalgia, diabetes, tobacco use, increased construct length, and prior SI joint injection. Prior SI joint injection had the highest odds ratio (OR: 8.70; 95% CI: 8.25-9.16; P < 0.001), followed by 7+ vertebral segment (OR: 2.17; 95% CI: 2.03-2.33; P < 0.001) and 3-6 vertebral segment fusion (OR: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.42-1.57; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The highest predictor of requiring subsequent SI joint fusion is a prior SI joint injection. We also found that longer fusion constructs are associated with increased risk for future SI joint fusion.
Exogenous putrescine application imparts salt stress-induced oxidative stress tolerance via regulating antioxidant activity, potassium uptake, and abscisic acid to gibberellin ratio in Zinnia flowers
Authors: Mohammadi Meisam , Nezamdoost Delaram , Khosravi Far Fatemeh , Zulfiqar Faisal , Eghlima Ghasem , Aghamir Fatame
Published: September 2024

This research was conducted to investigate the efficacy of putrescine (PUT) treatment (0, 1, 2, and 4 mM) on improving morphophysiological and biochemical characteristics of Zinnia elegans “State Fair” flowers under salt stress (0, 50, and 100 mM NaCl). The experiment was designed in a factorial setting under completely randomized design with 4 replications. The results showed that by increasing the salt stress intensity, the stress index (SSI) increased while morphological traits such as plant height decreased. PUT treatments effectively recovered the decrease in plant height and flower quality compared to the not-treated plants. Treatment by PUT 2 mM under 50 and 100 mM salt stress levels reduced the SSI by 28 and 35%, respectively, and increased plant height by 20 and 27% compared to untreated plants (PUT 0 mM). 2 mM PUT treatment also had the greatest effect on increasing fresh and dry biomass, number and surface area of leaves, flower diameter, internodal length, leaf relative water content, protein contents, total chlorophyll contents, carotenoids, leaf potassium (K+) content, and K+/Na+ ratio in treated plants compared to untreated control plants. The treatment of 2 mM PUT decreased the electrolyte leakage, leaf sodium (Na+) content, H2O2, malondialdehyde, and proline content. Furthermore, PUT treatments increased the activity of defense-related enzymes including catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and phenylalanine ammonium lyase (PAL), and reduced the abscisic acid (ABA) content while increased the level of gibberellin (GA) content compared to untreated samples under all different levels of salinity stress. In this research, enhancing the plant’s antioxidant system, increasing K+ absorption, K+/Na+ ratio, and reducing the ABA/GA ratio are likely the most important mechanisms of PUT treatment, which improved growth, and maintained the visual quality of zinnia flowers under salt stress conditions.
Developing a novel calcium silver zeolite for caries management
Authors: Li Laura Jiaxuan , Lung Christie Ying-Kei , Ge Kelsey Xingyun , Song Ke , Chu Chun-Hung , Yu Ollie Yiru
Published: September 2024

Objective

To develop a novel calcium silver zeolite (Ca-Ag-Zeo) and assess its biocompatibility, physiochemical properties and antimicrobial effects.

Methods

Ca-Ag-Zeo was synthesized using ion-exchange method with calcium chloride, silver nitrate and Zeolite X (Zeo). Silver zeolite X (Ag-Zeo) and Zeo were set as control. The chemical structure, morphology, crystal structure and elemental composition of Ca-Ag-Zeo was characterized by X-ray diffraction spectrum, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. Its biocompatibility on the human gingival fibroblasts was assessed by cell counting kit-8 assay. Its physiochemical properties were determined by the released calcium and silver ion using Inductive Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometry for up to 12 weeks. The antimicrobial properties on Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, and Candida albicans were assessed by minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) or minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) assay.

Results

Ca-Ag-Zeo with a hexagonal cage structure was synthesized. As for biocompatibility, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (± SD in mg/mL) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo in human gingival fibroblasts were 0.52 ± 0.05, 0.15 ± 0.01 and 3.35 ± 0.58, respectively (Zeo > Ca-Ag-Zeo > Ag-Zeo; p < 0.05). As for physiochemical properties, the accumulated ion release (± SD in mg) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo were 0.011 ± 0.003, 0 and 0 for calcium ion, respectively (Ca-Ag-Zeo > Ag-Zeo, Zeo; p < 0.001), and 0.213 ± 0.032, 0.209 ± 0.019 and 0 for silver ion, respectively (Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo > Zeo; p < 0.001). As for anti-microbial ability, the MBC/MFC (mg/mL) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo were 32, 16 and > 256 against Streptococcus mutans; 32, 16, > 256 against Lactobacillus acidophilus; 16, 16, and 256 against Lactobacillus casei; 0.25, 0.125; and 2, 1, > 256 against Candida albicans, respectively.

Conclusion

A novel Ca-Ag-Zeo was developed. It presented better biocompatibility compared to Ag-Zeo. It released calcium and silver ions sustainably, and it could inhibit the growth of common cariogenic microorganisms.
Real-world impact of acupuncture on analgesics and healthcare resource utilization in breast cancer survivors with pain
Authors: Ng Ding Quan , Lee Sanghoon , Lee Richard T. , Wang Yun , Chan Alexandre
Published: September 2024

Background

This study evaluated the real-world impact of acupuncture on analgesics and healthcare resource utilization among breast cancer survivors.

Methods

From a United States (US) commercial claims database (25% random sample of IQVIA PharMetrics® Plus for Academics), we selected 18–63 years old malignant breast cancer survivors experiencing pain and ≥ 1 year removed from cancer diagnosis. Using the difference-in-difference technique, annualized changes in analgesics [prevalence, rates of short-term (< 30-day supply) and long-term (≥ 30-day supply) prescription fills] and healthcare resource utilization (healthcare costs, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits) were compared between acupuncture-treated and non-treated patients.

Results

Among 495 (3%) acupuncture-treated patients (median age: 55 years, stage 4: 12%, average 2.5 years post cancer diagnosis), most had commercial health insurance (92%) and experiencing musculoskeletal pain (98%). Twenty-seven percent were receiving antidepressants and 3% completed ≥ 2 long-term prescription fills of opioids. Prevalence of opioid usage reduced from 29 to 19% (P < 0.001) and NSAID usage reduced from 21 to 14% (P = 0.001) post-acupuncture. The relative prevalence of opioid and NSAID use decreased by 20% (P < 0.05) and 19% (P = 0.07), respectively, in the acupuncture-treated group compared to non-treated patients (n = 16,129). However, the reductions were not statistically significant after adjustment for confounding. Patients receiving acupuncture for pain (n = 264, 53%) were found with a relative decrease by 47% and 49% (both P < 0.05) in short-term opioid and NSAID fills compared to those treated for other conditions. High-utilization patients (≥ 10 acupuncture sessions, n = 178, 36%) were observed with a significant reduction in total healthcare costs (P < 0.001) unlike low-utilization patients.

Conclusions

Although adjusted results did not show that patients receiving acupuncture had better outcomes than non-treated patients, exploratory analyses revealed that patients treated specifically for pain used fewer analgesics and those with high acupuncture utilization incurred lower healthcare costs. Further studies are required to examine acupuncture effectiveness in real-world settings.
Network analysis of Tourette syndrome and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in children and adolescents
Authors: Zhang Wenyan , Jiang Zhongliang , Zhang Anyi , Yu Liping , Wang Xianbin , Hong Xu , Cui Yonghua , Lei Tianyuan
Published: September 2024

Background

While Tourette syndrome (TS) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often co-occur, the nature of the relationship between their symptoms is not well understood. Network analysis of psychopathology allow for detailed examinations of symptom interactions, providing an effective approach to explore the patterns of comorbidity between TS and ADHD symptoms.

Methods

This study included 3,958 participants (male/female = 3,004/954, age mean ± SD = 8.60 ± 2.25 years). We collected data on TS symptoms using the Motor Tic, Obsessions and Compulsions, Vocal Tic Evaluation Survey (MOVES), and ADHD symptoms using the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale-IV (SNAP-IV). Network analysis was employed to construct a combined network of TS and ADHD symptoms at the symptom level. We utilized the expected influence (EI) and bridge EI metrics to explore the core and bridge symptoms within the network.

Results

The network structure demonstrated a moderate number of non-zero connections between TS and ADHD symptoms, constituting 23.06% of all potential connections. Core symptoms in the comorbidity network included “Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities,” “Certain bad words or thoughts keep going through my mind,” and “Words come out that I can’t stop or control.” Bridging symptoms identified were “Words come out that I can’t stop or control,” “I do certain things like jumping or clapping over and over,” “I can’t control all my movements,” and “Often talks excessively.”

Conclusion

The core and bridging symptoms identified in this study serve as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of TS and ADHD comorbidity in clinical children and adolescents.
Chronically ill patients’ perspectives on support services and activities of patient organizations
Authors: Zigdon Avi , Eckhaus Eyal , Rosenfeld Michal , Zigdon Ofek
Published: September 2024

Background

Patient Organizations (POs) are an important support factor in helping chronically ill patients cope with their illness. Patient involvement in the management of their disease helps to achieve the best possible care for the patient, streamline the work of healthcare providers, shape healthcare policy, and even influence the structures of healthcare systems. The perspective of chronically ill patients on the activities and services provided by patient organizations has not been evaluated yet. This study aimed to identify and map the services and activities of all types of non-profit patient organizations from the perspective of chronically ill patients so that they can be integrated as an integral part of the healthcare system.

Methods

Nineteen services and activities of patient organizations were sampled from Israeli patient organizations and scientific literature. These services and activities were evaluated by chronically ill patients in Israel. Patient-Oriented Questionnaires (POQ) were distributed among patients with chronic diseases (N = 1395) using snowball sampling.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed, followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for convergent and discriminant validity. Findings showed that twelve services and activities suggested by patient organizations were found to represent chronically ill patients’ needs and categorized into three groups: Interpersonal support (five items), patients’ rights (four items), and medical information (three items). CFA showed a good fit for the observed data. CFI = 0.98, NFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.058.

Conclusions

Well-organized patient organizations are an important pillar in reformed healthcare systems. They can serve as the social arm of the healthcare system and as an intermediary between patients and healthcare institutions. We narrowed down twelve services and activities given by patient organizations that were important to chronically ill patients in Israel. patient organizations can utilize patient needs or preferences into clinical practice and influence health policy planning, patient-caregiver relationships, research and even healthcare costs. patient organizations recognition by the healthcare system, and establishment of a national patient council will help to realize these processes.
A prospective non-randomized controlled trial testing the effectiveness of psychotherapeutic inpatient treatment of Post-COVID-19 syndrome - study protocol
Authors: Koller Katharina , Kastel-Hoffmann Silke , Herold Regina , Morawa Eva , Lieb Marietta , Krehbiel Johannes , Hohberger Bettina , Erim Yesim
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In addition to physical symptoms such as dyspnea, fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and pain, a subgroup of patients with Post-COVID-19 syndrome (Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19, PASC) suffers from mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and neurocognitive impairments. To date, there are no causal treatments available for PASC. While initial studies show that psychotherapy improves psychological symptoms, PASC-related fatigue, and psychosocial functioning, further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of psychotherapeutic treatment for PASC.

Methods and analysis

This study presents a non-randomized controlled trial aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of a five-week multimodal inpatient psychosomatic treatment program for individuals experiencing PASC symptoms and comorbid mental illness. A total of 118 patients presented at the Post-COVID Center at the Universitätsklinikum Erlangen will be assigned to the intervention group receiving inpatient psychosomatic treatment or the control group receiving treatment as usual. The inclusion criteria for the intervention group are a diagnosis of PASC and at least one condition of mental distress and problems with coping with illness. The primary objective of the intervention is to reduce mental ailments, including depression and anxiety, as well as neurocognitive deficits, and to address PASC symptoms such as fatigue and pain. The core elements of the treatment are psychotherapy in individual and group settings, medical treatment, neurocognitive training, and physical therapy, adapted to the individual’s capacity and oriented towards the concept of pacing. After enrollment, participants will undergo a 6-month follow-up to assess long-term results and the sustainability of the intervention effects.

Discussion

This study examines the effectiveness of inpatient psychotherapeutic treatment in PASC patients with comorbid mental illness in comparison with a control group based on treatment as usual. The results of the study can contribute to the development of evidence-based interventions to address the complex needs of patients with PASC and comorbid mental illness.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS), retrospectively registered 15.02.2024 DRKSID DRKS00033562.
Relaxin Modulates the Genomic Actions and Biological Effects of Estrogen in the Myometrium
Authors: Tripathy Sudeshna , Nagari Anusha , Chiu Shu-Ping , Nandu Tulip , Camacho Cristel V , Mahendroo Mala , Kraus W Lee
Published: September 2024

Estradiol (E2) and relaxin (Rln) are steroid and polypeptide hormones, respectively, with important roles in the female reproductive tract, including myometrium. Some actions of Rln, which are mediated by its membrane receptor RXFP1, require or are augmented by E2 signaling through its cognate nuclear steroid receptor, estrogen receptor alpha (ERα). In contrast, other actions of Rln act in opposition to the effects of E2. Here we explored the molecular and genomic mechanisms that underlie the functional interplay between E2 and Rln in the myometrium. We used both ovariectomized female mice and immortalized human myometrial cells expressing wild-type or mutant ERα (hTERT-HM-ERα cells). Our results indicate that Rln modulates the genomic actions and biological effects of estrogen in the myometrium and myometrial cells by reducing phosphorylation of ERα on serine 118 (S118), as well as by reducing the E2-dependent binding of ERα across the genome. These effects were associated with changes in the hormone-regulated transcriptome, including a decrease in the E2-dependent expression of some genes and enhanced expression of others. The inhibitory effects of Rln cotreatment on the E2-dependent phosphorylation of ERα required the nuclear dual-specificity phosphatases DUSP1 and DUSP5. Moreover, the inhibitory effects of Rln were reflected in a concomitant inhibition of the E2-dependent contraction of myometrial cells. Collectively, our results identify a pathway that integrates Rln/RXFP1 and E2/ERα signaling, resulting in a convergence of membrane and nuclear signaling pathways to control genomic and biological outcomes.
Does Mechanism of Injury Affect Recovery After Sport-Related Concussion in Basketball? A Pilot Study
Authors: Bishay Anthony E. , Albert Avi N. , Rigney Grant H. , Corley James T. , Williams Kristen L. , Jo Jacob , Terry Douglas P. , Zuckerman Scott L.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Understanding sport-related concussion (SRC) mechanisms can aid in prevention and treatment. Concussions in basketball have received relatively less attention compared with collision sports. In a cohort of concussed high school basketball players, this pilot study sought to (1) describe the mechanisms of how concussions occur in basketball and (2) assess the relationship between mechanisms and acute symptomatology and recovery time.

METHODS:

A retrospective cohort, pilot study examined concussed adolescent athletes (aged 14-18 years) treated at a sports concussion center from 11/2017 to 04/2022. The primary independent variable was mechanism of injury, categorized into (1) contact (head-to-head, head-to-body, head-to-ball, head-to-ground), (2) player (offensive play, defensive play, both), and (3) awareness mechanisms (aware, unaware). The outcomes included acute symptom severity, time to return-to-learn, symptom resolution, and return-to-play. Associations between mechanisms and outcomes were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance, independent t-tests, multivariable linear regressions, and Cox regression.

RESULTS:

Of 105 basketball players (16.2 ± 1.4 years; 50.5% male), head-to-ground contact (n = 44/105; 41.9%) was most common. Taking-a-charge (n = 12/53; 22.6%) was the most frequent player mechanism, with similar rates for offensive (n = 24/53; 45.3%) and defensive (n = 23/53; 43.4%) plays. Most were aware of impending collision (n = 37/46; 80.4%). Head-to-body concussions were associated with higher initial symptoms severity scores when compared with head-to-head (β = 0.33, P = .003) and head-to-ground (β = 0.23, P = .050) contacts. Player and awareness mechanisms were not significant predictors of outcome measures. Only higher initial symptom scores were associated with a longer time to return-to-learn, symptom resolution, and return-to-play.

CONCLUSION:

In this pilot study of concussed high school basketball players, head-to-ground was the most common concussion mechanism, with similar rates during offensive and defensive plays. Although head-to-body contact increased acute symptoms, other mechanisms did not predict recovery time. Given the limited information on concussions in basketball, the preliminary results of this pilot study may help inform larger studies on basketball SRC mechanisms.
Metabolic ripple effects – deciphering how lipid metabolism in cancer interfaces with the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Jonker Patrick B. , Muir Alexander
Published: September 2024

Cancer cells require a constant supply of lipids. Lipids are a diverse class of hydrophobic molecules that are essential for cellular homeostasis, growth and survival, and energy production. How tumors acquire lipids is under intensive investigation, as these mechanisms could provide attractive therapeutic targets for cancer. Cellular lipid metabolism is tightly regulated and responsive to environmental stimuli. Thus, lipid metabolism in cancer is heavily influenced by the tumor microenvironment. In this Review, we outline the mechanisms by which the tumor microenvironment determines the metabolic pathways used by tumors to acquire lipids. We also discuss emerging literature that reveals that lipid availability in the tumor microenvironment influences many metabolic pathways in cancers, including those not traditionally associated with lipid biology. Thus, metabolic changes instigated by the tumor microenvironment have ‘ripple’ effects throughout the densely interconnected metabolic network of cancer cells. Given the interconnectedness of tumor metabolism, we also discuss new tools and approaches to identify the lipid metabolic requirements of cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment and characterize how these requirements influence other aspects of tumor metabolism.
Clinical and Cardiometabolic Effects of Reducing Sedentary Behavior in Postmenopausal Women with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: PINTO ANA JESSICA , MEIRELES KAMILA , PEÇANHA TIAGO , MAZZOLANI BRUNA CARUSO , SMAIRA FABIANA INFANTE , REZENDE DIEGO , BENATTI FABIANA BRAGA , DE MEDEIROS RIBEIRO ANA CRISTINA , DE SÁ PINTO ANA LÚCIA , LIMA FERNANDA RODRIGUES , ROSCHEL HAMILTON , GUALANO BRUNO
Published: September 2024

Purpose

We investigated the effects of a 4-month intervention targeting sedentary behavior on sedentary time and physical activity level, clinical parameters, cardiometabolic risk factors, inflammatory markers, and health-related quality of life in postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

This was a 4-month, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03186924). One hundred and three postmenopausal rheumatoid arthritis patients were randomized (1:1) to either a newly developed intervention targeting sedentary behavior (Take a STAND for Health [TS4H]) or standard of care (SOC). Sedentary behavior (primary outcome) and physical activity levels, clinical parameters, anthropometric parameters and body composition, blood samples and oral glucose tolerance test, blood pressure, muscle function, and health-related quality of life were assessed at baseline (Pre) and after 4 months (Post). Between- and within-group differences were tested using linear mixed models following the intention-to-treat principle.

Results

Total sedentary time, time in prolonged sitting bouts, standing, and stepping did not change in either group (all P ≥ 0.337). No significant between- and within-group differences were detected for any of the clinical parameters, markers of cardiometabolic health and inflammation, and health-related quality of life variables (all P ≥ 0.136). Among responders in TS4H group (those who reduced sedentary time by ≥30 min·d−1), Pre to Post IL-10 concentrations tended to reduce (group–time: P = 0.086; estimated mean difference [EMD]: −12.0 pg·mL−1 [−23.5 to −0.6], P = 0.037) and general health (group–time: P = 0.047; EMD: 10.9 A.U. [−1.1 to 22.9], P = 0.086) and overall physical health tended to improve (group–time: P = 0.067; EMD: 7.9 A.U. [−0.9 to 16.6], P = 0.089).

Conclusions

TS4H did not change sedentary behavior, physical activity levels, clinical, cardiometabolic, inflammatory, or health-related quality of life outcomes. However, TS4H tended to reduce IL-10 levels and improve health-related quality of life in responders.
A AUTONOMIA ADMINISTRATIVA NA ÁREA DA SAÚDE
Authors: Freitas Filipa Rubina Ferreira de , Freitas Altino Sousa , Bilhim João Abreu de Faria , Correia Pedro Miguel Alves Ribeiro , Resende Sérgio André Lopes
Published: September 2024

O setor da saúde comporta uma acrescida importância no que diz respeito à sua administração. Ele é dotado de características que tornam a sua gestão única, e isso se verificou, em particular, em momentos recentes como o da pandemia, que assolou não só Portugal, como o mundo. Assim, ao longo do presente artigo, procurar-se-á estudar a administração da saúde, em particular, a temática da autonomia administrativa, por via de um estudo de caso efetuado na região autônoma da Madeira. Para isso, procedeu-se a uma análise de caráter qualitativo, que visa melhor entender como se descreve a realidade em que se vive nesta região, relativamente ao tema mencionado. Em termos de conclusões, entende-se que a Constituição de 1976 introduziu mudanças profundas na estrutura do Estado, permitindo uma maior participação das regiões autônomas da Madeira e dos Açores com revisões posteriores. A participação das Regiões Autônomas ocorre, principalmente, na Assembleia da República e no Governo da República, excluindo-se os tribunais e o Presidente da República. Quanto à questão central deste estudo acerca de serem acatados ou não os pareceres da Região Autônoma da Madeira, na área da saúde, observamos que a maioria dos pedidos não foi acatada.
The effects of multifactorial pharmacist-led intervention protocol on medication optimisation and adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomised control trial
Authors: El-Deyarbi Marwan , Ahmed Luai , King Jeffrey , Abubackar Syed , Al Juboori Ahmed , Mansour Nirmin A. , Aburuz Salahdein
Published: September 2024

Background Patient-related factors and limited medication adherence in patients with chronic diseases, are associated with poor clinical outcomes, long-term complications, and increased overall disease costs. Many methods have been tested with mixed results, and innovative approaches are needed to encourage patients to adhere to their prescribed drug regimens. Methods This randomised controlled trial examined a new multifactorial pharmacist-led intervention protocol (MPIP), including a medication therapy management (MTM) program with face-to-face counselling, patient-specific medication booklets, and a mobile application, from July 2021 to September 2022 in the Oud Al Touba diagnostic and screening ambulatory centre in 192 patients with type 2 diabetes in the United Arab Emirates. Medication adherence was assessed using the fixed medication possession ratio of medication refills and the medication adherence questionnaire. Results At 12 months follow-up, participants in the MPIP showed significant improvement in overall medication adherence with total (composite) medication possession ratio (MPRt) of mean (±SD) 0.95 (±0.09) compared to 0.92 (± 0.09) in the control group with mean difference of 0.03 (95%, CI 0.01–0.06), P =0.02. In addition, improvement trend was evident in the MPIP group for all medication regimens with P value <0.01. Comparable results were noticeable in adherence questionnaire scores at the end of the study, with 66 participants in the intervention group scored zero on the questionnaire, suggesting high adherence to medication compared to the control group (48 participants only). The MTM program performed 41 clinical interventions on drug-related problems, compared to six interventions in the control group, and the use of mobile application and medication booklet have increased to 45.7% compared to 21.4% before study exit. Conclusions The pharmacy intervention protocol effectively improved medication adherence and optimised medication regimens in diabetic patients with chronic medication regimens in an ambulatory healthcare centre.
Incentivizing green building technology: A financial perspective on sustainable development in India
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , singh Rajesh , Goel Richa , Singh Tilottama , Priyadarshi Neeraj , Twala Bhekisipho
Published: September 2024

Future viability depends on ensuring a sustainable society because green energy methods may efficiently reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Nevertheless, stakeholders, consumers, and developers continue to be notably ignorant of the financial incentives connected to green technology. Moreover, there is still a dearth of studies on the range of financial incentives offered by different authorities in India. Monetary incentives, such as tax breaks, indirect tax exemptions, and refunds, are crucial in encouraging the use of green technology in the modern world. This study explores the importance of financial incentives for green building technologies in India, which also looks at the wide range of incentives provided by federal, state, and local governments. Furthermore, the study highlights various state government programs such as goods subsidies, exemptions from local taxes, and fee waivers. Notably, several incentives aimed at consumers, developers, and other stakeholders have been implemented by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). This review study emphasizes the effectiveness of financial incentives in green construction projects and draws attention to a clear knowledge gap regarding the adoption of green technology. This study also provides insights into potential future directions. Studies and research results emphasize the importance of spreading the word about financial incentives as a key factor in determining the adoption of green technologies. Many parties, including governmental organizations, municipal governments, developers, and clients engaged in green building technology projects, stand to gain increased awareness.
MEASURES TO COUNTERACT MODERN METHODS OF FRAUD AGAINST THE POPULATION
Authors: Tikhomirova Maria S. , Palatnikova Arina D.
Published: September 2024

In the context of developing technologies, the risk of losing money through deception or abuse of trust increases significantly. In the modern world, scammers are finding more and more sophisticated ways to illegally seize other people's money. The article examines modern methods of committing fraud, analyzes measures to combat these crimes, puts forward proposals for updating and improving methods and measures aimed at countering modern methods of fraud.
Methodology. Analysis and synthesis were chosen and used as theoretical methods of scientific research.
Purpose. The work is aimed at studying and analyzing measures and methods of protection against fraudsters, identifying possible ways to legally solve problems.
Results. Proposals for updating and improving methods and measures aimed at countering modern methods of fraud against the population. One of the most important measures to counteract the commission of fraudulent actions against the population, as we believe, is a whole range of various measures aimed at preventing such criminal actions. Preventive actions can be divided into several types: actions aimed at the population itself, work with citizens and actions that constitute technical protection. For example, special attention should be paid to informing and teaching financial literacy to the younger generation (students, schoolchildren), since in the near future this particular group of the population will become the most solvent.
Stochastic Resource Allocation Problems: Minmax and Maxmin Solutions
Authors: Ninh Anh , Shen Zuo-Jun Max
Published: September 2024

Problem definition: Min-max or max-min objective criteria naturally arise in many resource allocation applications, especially when the attendant goal involves distribution of a limited resource across multiple subsystems, locations, or activities. Each has a different consumption rate of the resource. In this setting, the decision maker is interested in optimizing the system performance, which can be measured in terms of the smallest or largest order statistic across subsystems. Examples include the allocation of health resources to maximize the first runout time or to minimize the maximum delay. Methodology/results: In the literature, there are no unified theoretical and computational results on the optimal allocations for these problems. Thus, in this paper, we develop key theoretical properties of the attendant stochastic resource allocation problems, providing a technical condition for the objective functions to have favorable properties, upon which we derive novel optimal allocation rules with clear interpretation. Managerial implications: The proportional allocation rule can be interpreted as a robust solution when the full distribution of the interarrival time is unknown. It generally has poor performance, especially when the resource consumption rates vary across locations, which happens regularly in practice. Our allocation rule is exact and should be used for the allocation of scarce resources—that is, when the number of resources per location is limited, which is often encountered in healthcare settings.
Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Immunomodulatory Properties of Algerian Phoenix dactylifera
Authors:   Laboratoire de Mycologie, de Biotechnologie et de l’activité Microbienne (LaMyBAM), Université des Frères Mentouri Constantine-1, Constantine, Algeria, Sakhri Afaf , Sakhri Fatma Zahra ,   Higher National School of Biotechnology, Constantine, Algeria, Bensouici Chawki ,   Centre de Recherche en Biotechnologie, Constantine, Algeria
Published: September 2024

The aim of the current study is to evaluate the antioxidant, antibacterial, and phagocytic activities of the hydroethanolic extract of Phoenix dactylifera fruit variety Mech degla. The antioxidant activity was determined through DPPH assay, ferrous ions chelating assay, and CUPRAC assay. The antibacterial activity against four bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae), was evaluated using the disc diffusion method, while the in vivo phagocytic activity was measured using carbon clearance method. The results showed that the extract exhibited good antioxidant activity with the IC50 values of 0.89 ± 0.3 g/l and 0.56 ± 0.24 g/l for DPPH and ferrous ions chelating activities, respectively, and the A0.5 value of 1.45 ± 0.15 g/l in the CUPRAC assay. Moreover, the extract showed notable antibacterial activity against all tested strains with the highest zone of inhibition (23.3 ± 0.3 mm) against S. pneumonia. Besides the extract did not show any significant toxicity, it was able to stimulate the phagocytic activity with a significantly faster carbon clearance rate at the dose of up to 100 mg/kg compared to the control group. Our results suggested that the Phoenix dactylifera fruit represents a promising source for the development of safe and effective immunomodulators as remedies to prevent and treat various microbial and immune-related diseases.
Ultra-sensitive singular-phase terahertz refractive index biosensor using graphene aided Tamm plasmonic resonance and variable angle ellipsometry
Authors: Baseri Alireza , Alighanbari Abbas
Published: September 2024

This study introduces, for the first time, to our knowledge, the development of an ultra-sensitive singular-phase refractive index biosensor based on a graphene Tamm plasmonic structure, operating at terahertz frequencies. A significant phase change occurs at the phase singularity or dark points, where surface reflection is nearly absent. Previous studies exploiting phase singularity points have involved complex techniques such as nanopatterning or integrating devices like gratings. Tamm plasmonic structures using noble metals, operating at visible light, have been studied before. The proposed structure simplifies the design by using a multilayer geometry and enhances the sensitivity using a stack of multilayer graphene, operating at 1 THz, achieving a remarkable sensitivity of 1.36×106∘/RIU in the gaseous phase, surpassing previous studies. In the liquid phase, a sensitivity of 1.05×105∘/RIU is obtained, which is higher than previous results. Such large sensitivity values are achieved by exploiting phase singularity concepts along with variable angle ellipsometry. The results are obtained using a fast and accurate transfer matrix method.
MEMS fast steering mirror with a large optical aperture and high surface quality for free-space optical communication
Authors: Yang Yi , Liu Yichen , Su Yongquan , Weng Zhichao , Sun Qianying , Qiao Qifeng , Xue Wenli , Zhang Yonggui , Wang Yang , Wang Lihao , Wu Zhenyu
Published: September 2024

This work presents a MEMS fast steering mirror fabricated by an 8-inch AlScN platform, with a large optical aperture of up to 10 mm and high surface quality (RMS < 20 nm, PV < 120 nm), intended for free-space optical communication. The device comprises a high reflective mirror plate, a pillar and four cantilever beams with AlScN thin films. This device is prepared by a wafer-level eutectic bonding process. A reinforcement structure is proposed to increase the resonant frequency and the resistance to deformation. The mechanical performance, including resonant frequency, step response, linearity, and long-term stability are characterized. The maximum tilting angle is 1.38 mrad at 68 V, the settling time is improved from 400 ms in the open-loop control mode to 0.5 ms with the double step algorithm. The relationship of the resonant frequency, surface figure, and the depth of reinforced ribs is studied through characterizing devices with different depths of reinforced ribs. The bonding quality and the mutual melting states of bonding layers interface are investigated.
Thermal relaxation time and photothermal optomechanical force in sliced photonic crystal silicon nanobeams
Authors: Shakespeare Cliona , Kumar Arvind S. , Muhonen Juha T.
Published: September 2024

Optomechanical devices based on sliced silicon photonic crystal nanobeams could have several use cases in future quantum technologies, especially as quantum transducers between different quantum systems. To create the required pure mechanical states at low temperatures, an understanding of photon absorption, thermal relaxation, and the associated photothermal force is crucial. Here, we characterize the strength of the photothermal force in sliced silicon nanobeam resonators. We extract the thermal relaxation time separately from phonon ray tracing simulations, allowing us to study the strength of the photothermal optomechanical effect without the uncertainty from the thermal relaxation time. With this information, we can put strict upper bounds to the photothermal force and photon absorption (β parameter) in the devices without knowledge of the cavity photon population. The methods we employ can easily be adapted to other geometries and devices for the study of the photothermal effects.
Computational vibration mitigation using phase interpolation in digital holographic microscopy for overlay metrology
Authors: van Gardingen-Cromwijk Tamar , Konijnenberg Sander , Witte Stefan , de Boer Johannes F. , den Boef Arie
Published: September 2024

Digital holographic microscopy retrieves amplitude and phase information of an image which allows us to computationally correct for imperfections in the imaging optics. However, digital holographic microscopy is an interferometric technique that is inherently sensitive to undesired phase variations between object and reference beam. These phase variations lower the fringe contrast if they are integrated over a finite exposure time which leads to a reduced amplitude of the retrieved image. This results in significant errors in applications that rely on a stable and accurate amplitude measurement, such as optical overlay metrology in the semiconductor industry. We present experimental results on a computational vibration mitigation method for the application of overlay metrology using phase interpolation between a sequence of measured holograms and demonstrate its capability to improve metrology precision in an overlay metrology application that uses digital holographic microscopy.
Frequency comb enhancement via the self-crystallization of vectorial cavity solitons
Authors: Campbell Graeme N. , Hill Lewis , Del’Haye Pascal , Oppo Gian-Luca
Published: September 2024

Long-range interactions between dark vectorial temporal cavity solitons are induced by the formation of patterns via spontaneous symmetry breaking of orthogonally polarized fields in ring resonators. Turing patterns of alternating polarizations form between adjacent solitons, pushing them apart so that a random distribution of solitons along the cavity length spontaneously reaches equal equilibrium distances, the soliton crystal, without any mode crossing or external modulation. Enhancement of the frequency comb is achieved through the spontaneous formation of regularly spaced soliton crystals, ‘self-crystallization’, with greater power and spacing of the spectral lines for increasing soliton numbers. Partial self-crystallization is also achievable in long cavities, allowing one to build crystal sections with controllable numbers of cavity solitons separated by intervals of pattern solutions of, again, controllable length.