bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: Analysis of 162 Patients
Authors: Sari Alpaslan , Gonullu Neset Nuri , Tiryaki Cagri , Yazicioglu Murat Burc , Kargi Ertugrul , Gonullu Emre , Yirmibesoglu Ahmet Oktay
Published: March 2016

We aimed to evaluate the frequency of the need for proton pump inhibitor treatment following laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A total of 162 patients with GERD were treated surgically with LNF from October 2006 to March 2010 in our surgery department. Diagnoses were made by using upper gastrointestinal system (GIS) endoscopy and 24-hour pH monitoring, and all the patients underwent routine LNF surgery. The patients were questioned regarding complaints and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) usage during the postoperative period, and 40 patients who had postoperative GIS symptoms were included. Upper GIS endoscopy with antral biopsy for Helicobacter pylori (HP) identification and multichannel intraluminal impedance pH (MII-pH) monitoring were applied, and all the data were evaluated. The median postoperative follow-up time was 1.84 ± 0.850 (0.29–3.48) years. PPI treatment frequency was 37.5% (15 patients) in the 40 symptomatic patients, or 9.26% in all 162 patients who were operated on. The reason for PPI usage in 3 patients (7.5%) was regarded as recurrence. HP positivity was 67.5% in the symptomatic patients and 73.3% in the PPI treated group; 40% (6 patients) recovery was achieved in the HP (+) patients by using an HP eradication treatment protocol. The operated patients displayed statistically significant results in increased quality of life (P = 0.001) and lowered DeMeester scores (P = 0.000) during the postoperative period when compared with the preoperative period. LNF treatment for GERD prevents pathologic reflux in the long term and maintains symptomatic control, which leads to increased and better quality of life. PPI treatment alone during the postoperative period does not indicate “recurrence.” One of the most important reasons for recurrence is antral gastritis secondary to HP infection; PPI usage diminishes remarkably with an HP eradication protocol. MII-pH monitoring is an effective method of determining recurrences due to reflux and their types in postoperative symptomatic patients.
Chemically‐Modified 2D Covalent Organic Framework as an HTL Dopant for High‐Performance, Stable, and Sustainable Perovskite Solar Cells and Modules
Authors: Li Fuqiang , Huang Xiaofeng , Li Ying , Du Xiangrui , Yang Eunhye , Ahn Yoomi , Lee Bo Ram , Wu Binghui , Park Sung Heum
Published: September 2024

Despite significant advances in perovskite solar cells (PeSCs), the operational instability and susceptibility to Pb leakage of PeSCs severely limit their widespread application. To address these issues, this study investigates the effect of doping the Spiro‐OMeTAD hole‐transporting layer (HTL) with a chemically‐modified 2D conjugated covalent organic framework (Tp‐Azo‐COF) on the photovoltaic performance and stability of PeSCs. Enriched with abundant carbonyl (C═O) groups and azo (N═N) nodes, Tp‐Azo‐COF has excellent chelation and adsorption capabilities, and experimental results confirm that Tp‐Azo‐COF effectively decreases Pb leakage and Li‐ion migration, improving the environmental safety and operational stability of PeSCs. The optimized PeSCs (0.12 cm2) exhibit an efficiency of 24.25%, a new benchmark for COF‐modified devices, and maintain robust performance in large‐area modules (18 cm2) with an efficiency of 21.96%. Under accelerated aging tests, including continuous light irradiation at maximum power point tracking for 980 h, the module demonstrated exceptional durability, with near‐100% efficiency retention. The COF doping strategy developed in this study significantly enhances operational stability and minimizes Pb leakage in PeSCs, paving the way for the sustainable, large‐scale deployment of perovskite photovoltaics.
Effect of Nanoscale Surface Modification on the Interfacial Mechanics of Carbon Fibers
Authors: Srihari Sriraj , Sathyanath Rahul , Kalpathy Sreeram K. , Al‐Haik Marwan , Namilae Sirish
Published: September 2024

Enhancing fiber surfaces through in situ growth of nanomaterials is known to improve fiber composite properties by enhancing the interface between the fiber and matrix. In this study, hydrothermal processes are used to achieve two types of interfacial modification for carbon fiber: zinc oxide nanowires (ZnO NWs) and nickel‐based metal–organic frameworks (MOF). The interfacial strengths are evaluated using single fiber push‐in tests via nanoindentation and the interfaces are analyzed through dynamic modulus‐mapping. It is found that ZnO modification increases the interface strength by 9.40%, while MOF modification yields an even higher improvement of 16.34%. The load‐displacement plots exhibit distinctive inflection points, elucidated through microstructural observations. Examining the modulus map of the interface region, a transition in the storage modulus from the fiber to the matrix is identified. A capillary flow‐based model is developed to explain the resin penetration through nanoscale features. The findings reported here indicate that the timescale for resin absorption is significantly shorter than the curing timescales for the surface modifications explored in this study.
Effectiveness of Essential Oil Component Cocrystals Against Food Spoilage Bacteria
Authors: Montisci Fabio , Menicucci Felicia , Carraro Claudia , Prencipe Michele , Pelagatti Paolo , Ienco Andrea , Palagano Eleonora , Raio Aida , Michelozzi Marco , Mazzeo Paolo P. , Bacchi Alessia
Published: September 2024

Improving food preservation technologies is a key aspect in the struggle to reduce global food waste, and natural antimicrobial substances, such as essential oil (EO) components represent very promising food preserving agent. However, their intrinsic chemico‐physical properties, such as the low melting point, low water solubility and high volatility, pose some practical difficulties in exploiting them for practical applications. Cocrystallization is used to stabilize liquid or volatile EO components providing them whit a crystalline environment, thus improving their potential application as antibacterial agents. Five EO active ingredients (THY = thymol, CAR = carvacrol, EUG = eugenol, CAD = trans‐cinnamaldehyde, and VAN = o‐vanillin) and two coformers (INA = Isonicotinamide, and HBA = 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid) have been combined and the corresponding cocrystals have been studied for their potential inhibiting effect against four food spoilage bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis, Enterobacter cloacae, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Serratia marcescens). The structures of the five cocrystals have been used to derive structure‐activity relationships in terms of release energy of the active ingredients form the crystalline environment, and a correlation has been derived with the Intermolecular Interaction Energies of the EO molecules.
Therapeutic Potential of Inulin‐Coated MCT Microcapsules in Modulating the Gut Microbiome for Effective Treatment of Diet‐Induced Obesity
Authors: Ariaee Amin , Wardill Hannah R. , Wignall Anthony , Elz Aurelia S. , Wright Leah , Prestidge Clive , Joyce Paul
Published: September 2024

Obesity, a global epidemic, leads to metabolic dysregulation and systemic inflammation. Recently, therapies targeting the gut microbiome have garnered attention for metabolic health regulation. This study evaluates the potential of inulin‐coated medium‐chain triglyceride (InuMCT) microcapsules in rats with diet‐induced obesity (DIO). Inulin prebiotic fibers have been shown to promote the gut microbiome, while the digestion products of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), free fatty acids, and mono‐/diglycerides, can attenuate pro‐inflammatory outcomes. It is hypothesized that encapsulating MCTs within inulin via spray drying creates a solid dosage form that can exert multifunctional effects in ameliorating inflammation in DIO. Inulin and InuMCT treatments not only reduce DIO weight gain but also improve metabolic markers in high‐fat diet (HFD) fed rats. Specifically, inulin attenuates the reduction of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) by 55% and lowers glucose levels by 21%. Meanwhile, InuMCT increases HDL by 23% and reduces glucose levels by 15%. Furthermore, inulin decreases serum proinflammatory tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) by 35%, while InuMCT further reduces TNF‐α to normal diet levels within 21 days. These results highlight InuMCT's superior efficacy, offering a promising strategy for combating obesity and related metabolic diseases.
Integrated Electrochemical Aptamer Biosensing and Colorimetric pH Monitoring via Hydrogel Microneedle Assays for Assessing Antibiotic Treatment
Authors: Keyvani Fatemeh , GhavamiNejad Peyman , Saleh Mahmoud Ayman , Soltani Mohammad , Zhao Yusheng , Sadeghzadeh Sadegh , Shakeri Arash , Chelle Pierre , Zheng Hanjia , Rahman Fasih A. , Mahshid Sarah , Quadrilatero Joe , Rao Praveen P. N. , Edginton Andrea , Poudineh Mahla
Published: September 2024

Current methods for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) have a long turnaround time as they involve collecting patients' blood samples followed by transferring the samples to medical laboratories where sample processing and analysis are performed. To enable real‐time and minimally invasive TDM, a microneedle (MN) biosensor to monitor the levels of two important antibiotics, vancomycin (VAN) and gentamicin (GEN) is developed. The MN biosensor is composed of a hydrogel MN (HMN), and an aptamer‐functionalized flexible (Flex) electrode, named HMN‐Flex. The HMN extracts dermal interstitial fluid (ISF) and transfers it to the Flex electrode where sensing of the target antibiotics happens. The HMN‐Flex performance is validated ex vivo using skin models as well as in vivo in live rat animal models. Data is leveraged from the HMN‐Flex system to construct pharmacokinetic profiles for VAN and GEN and compare these profiles with conventional blood‐based measurements. Additionally, to track pH and monitor patient's response during antibiotic treatment, an HMN is developed that employs a colorimetric method to detect changes in the pH, named HMN‐pH assay, whose performance has been validated both in vitro and in vivo. Further, multiplexed antibiotic and pH detection is achieved by simultaneously employing the HMN‐pH and HMN‐Flex on live animals.
Sequential Deactivation Across the Hippocampus‐Thalamus‐mPFC Pathway During Loss of Consciousness
Authors: Chen Xiaoai , Cramer Samuel R. , Chan Dennis C.Y. , Han Xu , Zhang Nanyin
Published: September 2024

How consciousness is lost in states such as sleep or anesthesia remains a mystery. To gain insight into this phenomenon, concurrent recordings of electrophysiology signals in the anterior cingulate cortex and whole‐brain functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are conducted in rats exposed to graded propofol, undergoing the transition from consciousness to unconsciousness. The results reveal that upon the loss of consciousness (LOC), there is a sharp increase in low‐frequency power of the electrophysiological signal. Additionally, fMRI signals exhibit a cascade of deactivation across a pathway including the hippocampus, thalamus, and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) surrounding the moment of LOC, followed by a broader increase in brain activity across the cortex during sustained unconsciousness. Furthermore, sliding window analysis demonstrates a temporary increase in synchrony of fMRI signals across the hippocampus‐thalamus‐mPFC pathway preceding LOC. These data suggest that LOC may be triggered by sequential activities in the hippocampus, thalamus, and mPFC, while wide‐spread activity increases in other cortical regions commonly observed during anesthesia‐induced unconsciousness may be a consequence, rather than a cause of LOC. Taken together, the study identifies a cascade of neural events unfolding as the brain transitions into unconsciousness, offering insight into the systems‐level neural mechanisms underpinning LOC.
Enhancing cross‐scale Raman in‐line monitoring capability of cell culture process in large‐scale manufacturing
Authors: Lang Zhe , Chen Gong , Yan Shaofan , Zhang Zhijun , Yang Yang , Tang Ziran , Zhu Huilin , Dong Shuhao , Zhou Hang , Zhou Weichang
Published: September 2024

This study introduces an approach to enhance the Raman calibration model cross‐scale prediction capabilities in cell cultures. Our investigation centers on the improvement of Raman calibration models along with the scaling‐up of mammalian cell culture processes. Initially, we observed that integrating data from a 50 L run into the original dataset at lab‐scale was an effective strategy for improving prediction accuracy on 1000 L run. Further investigation indicated that this improvement could be attributed to the similarity between the spectra of 50 L with 1000 L. Subsequent investigation unveiled that the spectral variations primarily stemmed from differences between the instruments. This was verified through a direct comparison of two Raman analyzers. Then two pairwise spectral transformation methods, direct standardization (DS) and piecewise DS, both exhibited superior performance in predicting. This research underscores the importance of Raman spectral transfer method to alleviate instrument‐to‐instrument variations in cross‐scale monitoring of cell culture processes.
Epidemiological Consequences of Individual Centrality on Wild Chimpanzees
Authors: Pierron Maxime , Sueur Cédric , Shimada Masaki , MacIntosh Andrew J. J. , Romano Valéria
Published: September 2024

Disease outbreaks are one of the key threats to great apes and other wildlife. Because the spread of some pathogens (e.g., respiratory viruses, sexually transmitted diseases, ectoparasites) are mediated by social interactions, there is a growing interest in understanding how social networks predict the chain of pathogen transmission. In this study, we built a party network from wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), and used agent‐based modeling to test: (i) whether individual attributes (sex, age) predict individual centrality (i.e., whether it is more or less socially connected); (ii) whether individual centrality affects an individual's role in the chain of pathogen transmission; and, (iii) whether the basic reproduction number (R0) and infectious period modulate the influence of centrality on pathogen transmission. We show that sex and age predict individual centrality, with older males presenting many (degree centrality) and strong (strength centrality) relationships. As expected, males are more central than females within their network, and their centrality determines their probability of getting infected during simulated outbreaks. We then demonstrate that direct measures of social interaction (strength centrality), as well as eigenvector centrality, strongly predict disease dynamics in the chimpanzee community. Finally, we show that this predictive power depends on the pathogen's R0 and infectious period: individual centrality was most predictive in simulations with the most transmissible pathogens and long‐lasting diseases. These findings highlight the importance of considering animal social networks when investigating disease outbreaks.
Application Value and Safety Analysis of Warfarin, Rivaroxaban, and Dabigatran Ester in Elderly Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Chen Cheng , Tian Qing , Cheng Chong , Ji Xixin , Feng Mengyun , Tan Huiqun , Zhou Qian
Published: September 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the application value and safety of Warfarin, Rivaroxaban, and Dabigatran in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation.

Methods

A total of 180 elderly patients with atrial fibrillation admitted to our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. According to their anticoagulant treatment regimen, patients were divided into three groups: Warfarin (57 cases), Rivaroxaban (61 cases), and Dabigatran (62 cases). General demographic information was collected, and coagulation function indicators—including fibrinogen (FIB), thrombin time (PT), activated partial thrombin time (APTT), and D‐dimer (D‐D)—as well as liver function indexes—including total bilirubin (TbiL), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine transferase (ALT)—were compared before and after 4 weeks of treatment.

Results

There were no significant differences in demographic characteristics such as gender, age, body mass index, or disease course among the three groups. The total effective rate in the Warfarin group (84.21%) was significantly lower than in the Rivaroxaban (98.36%) and Dabigatran (96.77%) groups (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the total effective rate between the Rivaroxaban and Dabigatran groups (p > 0.05). Additionally, no significant differences were found in the effects of the three drugs on coagulation function, liver function, or the incidence of bleeding (p = 0.052).

Conclusion

Warfarin, Rivaroxaban, and Dabigatran can effectively prevent thrombosis in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation, with Rivaroxaban and Dabigatran showing superior effectiveness. All three drugs demonstrated similar low rates of bleeding events and had no significant impact on coagulation and liver function.
Exploring Dietary Restraint as a Mediator of Behavioral and Cognitive‐Behavioral Treatments on Outcomes for Patients With Binge‐Eating Disorder With Obesity
Authors: Grilo Carlos M. , Pittman Brian
Published: September 2024

Objective

To explore dietary‐restraint as a mediator of binge eating and weight‐loss outcomes within a randomized controlled trial comparing cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavioral weight loss (BWL) for binge‐eating disorder (BED) with obesity.

Methods

Ninety participants were randomly assigned to CBT or BWL and assessed by evaluators blinded to conditions at pretreatment, throughout‐, and post‐treatment (6 months). Three dietary‐restraint measures (Eating Disorder Examination‐Questionnaire [EDE‐Q]‐Restraint, Three‐Factor Flexible‐Restraint and Rigid‐Restraint) were administered at pretreatment and after 2 months of treatment. Regression models examined whether changes at 2‐months in the restraint scales mediated the effects of treatment (CBT versus BWL) on binge eating and weight‐loss outcomes at post‐treatment.

Results

CBT and BWL had similar binge‐eating outcomes and similar changes in EDE‐Q‐restraint and flexible‐restraint. BWL had greater 2‐month increases in rigid‐restraint and greater weight‐loss at posttreatment than CBT, with results suggesting 2‐month changes in rigid‐restraint mediated the greater difference (>7 pounds) in weight‐loss. The observed mediation effect of 2.92 suggests 39% of total treatment‐effect on weight‐loss was mediated through 2‐month increases in rigid‐restraint.

Discussion

This secondary analysis within a trial comparing CBT and BWL for BED suggests early‐change in rigid‐restraint has a mediating effect of BWL on weight‐loss. Findings indicate that BWL improves binge eating and challenge views that dietary‐restraint might exacerbate binge eating in BED with obesity. Findings require confirmation using hypothesis‐testing in future trials.

Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00537758 (“Treatment for Obesity and Binge Eating Disorder”)
Anthropogenic disturbance and competitive avoidance shape the coexistence pattern of macaque species in tropical forests
Authors: He Ru‐Chuan , Wang Lin , Hughes Alice C. , Geng Ying , Cao Hui , Liu Ying , Li Jia‐Bin , Wang Qiao‐Yan , Yang Zheng‐Bin , Quan Rui‐Chang
Published: September 2024

The factors that enable the coexistence of closely related species remain a major question in ecology, particularly in human‐disturbed habitats. The effects of anthropogenic disturbance and interspecific competition can exacerbate the decline in populations of competing species. The adoption of different strategies in responding to anthropogenic disturbances and competitive avoidances may create opportunities for competing species to coexist. However, few studies have explored how disturbance and competition interact to shape species coexistence. In this study, we conducted long‐term and large‐scale camera trap surveys comprising 540 sampling sites from 2017 to 2021 at Xishuangbanna, southwestern China, and deployed a spatiotemporal analysis framework to determine the effect of anthropogenic disturbances and competitive avoidances on the coexistence of three sympatric macaque species: Assamese macaque (Macaca assamensis; MA), northern pig‐tailed macaque (M. leonina; ML), and rhesus macaque (M. mulatta; MM). Macaque species exhibited diverse responses to different types of anthropogenic disturbances. The occurrence probability of MM was positively associated with distance to road and relative abundance of human occurrence, and negatively associated with distance to cropland, which reduces the likelihood of sympatry between MM and the other two species due to their opposing responses to road, cropland, and human occurrence. Conversely, the similar responses to road and cropland increase the sympatry between MA and ML. Three macaque species did not avoid each other through shifting space use or their overall daily activity pattern. However, they delayed using the shared site after other species used it to avoid confrontation. We provide evidence that (1) the spatial co‐occurrence pattern of sympatric macaque species was determined by anthropogenic disturbances rather than by competitive spatial avoidance and (2) fine‐scale temporary avoidance is the strategy to alleviate their interspecific competition. These results enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms leading to species coexistence of nonhuman primates in human‐disturbed habitats.
Efficient Synthesis of 2‐Arylpropionitriles Via Selective Monomethylation of Aryl Acetonitriles Using an Easy to Handle Methylation Agent
Authors: Papaplioura Eleni , Templ Johanna , Wildhack Nina , Schnürch Michael
Published: September 2024

A convenient and safe methylation protocol employing quaternary ammonium salts (PhMe3NI) as alternative methylating agents for the selective α‐methylation of arylacetonitriles is presented. This approach allows for the selective α‐methylation of arylacetonitriles, overcoming the limitations of existing techniques, while offering a practical and sustainable solution for late‐stage functionalization in medicinal chemistry. The straightforward and safe nature of this methodology makes it particularly well‐suited for applications in drug discovery. In our report, we present a diverse set of 18 examples, achieving yields of up to 76 %.
The implications of frailty in older adults with epilepsy
Authors: Hashmi Syeda Amrah , Sachdeva Seerat , Sindhu Udeept , Tsai Carolyn , Bonda Kalyanchakradhar , Keezer Mark , Zawar Ifrah , Punia Vineet
Published: September 2024

Older adults constitute a large proportion of people with epilepsy (PWE) due to the changing demographics worldwide and epilepsy's natural history. Aging‐related pathophysiological changes lower the tolerance and increase our vulnerability to stressors, which manifests as frailty. Frailty is closely associated with adverse health outcomes. This narrative review examines the interplay between frailty and epilepsy, especially in older adults, emphasizing its clinical implications, including its role in managing PWE. Mechanistically, frailty develops through complex interactions among molecular and cellular damage, including genomic instability, mitochondrial dysfunction, and hormonal changes. These contribute to systemic muscle mass, bone density, and organ function decline. The concept of frailty has evolved from a primarily physical syndrome to include social, psychological, and cognitive dimensions. The “phenotypic frailty” model, which focuses on physical performance, and the “deficit accumulation” model, which quantifies health deficits, provide frameworks for understanding and assessing frailty. PWE are potentially more prone to developing frailty due to a higher prevalence of risk factors predisposing to frailty. These include, but are not limited to, polypharmacy, higher comorbidity, low exercise level, social isolation, low vitamin D, and osteoporosis. We lack commercial biomarkers to measure frailty but can diagnose it using self‐ or healthcare provider‐administered frailty scales. Recent attempts to develop a PWE‐specific frailty scale are promising. Unlike chronological age, frailty is reversible, so its management using multidisciplinary care teams should be strongly considered. Frailty can affect antiseizure medication (ASM) tolerance secondary to its impact on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. While frailty's effect on seizure control efficacy of ASM is poorly understood, its undoubted association with overall poor outcomes, including epilepsy surgery, behooves us to consider its presence and implication while treating older PWE. Incorporation of frailty measures in future research is essential to improve our understanding of frailty's role in PWE health.

Plain Language Summary

Frailty is the declining state of the human body. People with epilepsy are more prone to it. It should be factored into their management.
Research on the risk spillover effect of carbon emission trading market and various industry markets in China and the European Union
Authors: Cui Hua , Fan Yixin , Li Juchao
Published: September 2024

Widely concerns over the carbon emission problems have been aroused. Prior studies have documented the correlation between the carbon emission market and industries separately. This study compared the tail risks and risk spillover effect of the carbon emission and 11 industries markets in China and the European Union (EU) by using the multivariate multi‐quartile conditional autoregressive at‐risk model. Moreover, to evaluate the risk spillover of each market under extreme risk conditions in time domain and frequency domain, DY spillover index and BK spillover index were constructed via generalized forecast error variance decomposition and generalized causation spectrum, respectively. Findings are as follows: (1) The tail risks and fluctuation of the trend of Chinese industry markets reflects more higher and larger than those in the EU; (2) The EU suffers from smaller external shocks, while China has the opposite result and can recover relatively faster; (3) In China, energy, industrial, information technology, financial, real estate, consumer goods, carbon emissions, and discretionary consumption industries are risk spillover industries, while healthcare, materials, telecommunication services, and utilities industries are risk receiving industries. In contrast, the risk spillover industries in the EU remain consistent with those of the Chinese markets except for the materials, discretionary consumption, consumer goods, information technology and real estate industries. (4) On the short‐term, medium‐term and long‐term scales, the risk spillover of China's carbon emission trading market and various industries is basically consistent with that of the EU. These findings contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving the goal of carbon peak and carbon neutrality.
Managing fire‐prone forests in a time of decreasing carbon carrying capacity
Authors: Hurteau Matthew D , Goodwin Marissa J , Marsh Christopher , Zald Harold SJ , Collins Brandon , Meyer Marc , North Malcolm P
Published: September 2024

Changing climatic conditions are increasing overstory tree mortality in forests globally. This restructuring of the distribution of biomass is making already flammable forests more combustible, posing a major challenge for managing the transition to a lower biomass state. In western US dry conifer forests, tree density resulting from over a century of fire‐exclusion practices has increased the risk of high‐severity wildfire and susceptibility to climate‐driven mortality. Reducing dead fuel loads will require new approaches to mitigate risk to the remaining live trees by preparing forests to withstand future wildfire. Here, we used data from the Teakettle Experimental Forest in California to evaluate different prescribed fire burn frequencies and their impact on accumulated dead fuels after a 4‐year drought. Increasing burn frequency could reduce surface fuel build‐up but comes with additional challenges that will require creativity and experimentation to overcome.
Prevalence of iron overload in patients with chronic kidney disease on peritoneal dialysis: A scoping review
Authors: Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Abuawwad Mohammad T. , Jaradat Jaber H. , Ibraheem Anas , Yassin Mohamed A. , Taha Mohammad J. J.
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) are susceptible to complications, including iron overload, which can significantly impact their prognosis and overall health. This scoping review aimed to study the prevalence and implications of iron overload in CKD patients undergoing PD.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across five databases, leading to the selection of 18 papers for in‐depth analysis. These studies collectively involved 381 PD patients, 60.3% were males.

Results

No consensus was reached regarding the exact diagnostic cutoff for iron overload. The investigations revealed four main aspects: (1) Seven papers identified various factors contributing to iron overload, emphasizing the role of different iron supplements and magnetic resonance imaging's capability to diagnose iron accumulation in organs; (2) Iron overload in young patients was found to hinder growth; (3) Six studies highlighted the adverse effects of iron overload, with cardiac issues being the most significant; (4) Three studies demonstrated the efficacy of iron‐chelating agents, Deferoxamine and Deferasirox, in treating iron overload patients undergoing PD. Overall, the estimated prevalence of liver iron overload in CKD patients on PD ranges from approximately 10% to 28.6%, which is far lower than the prevalence of 75% elegantly shown in HD patients.

Conclusion

While iron overload was a significant concern for CKD patients undergoing PD in the past, it is less common in the current era due to advancements in treatments, such as erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents. Treatment with specific chelation agents has proven beneficial, but there is also a risk of adverse effects, necessitating meticulous monitoring and timely intervention.
Major impacts of the US Renewable Fuel Standard on corn and soybean cultivation
Authors: Smith T. Jake , Moschini GianCarlo
Published: September 2024

We use rich spatial data on observed crop choices and ethanol production to estimate the local impacts of ethanol plants and the overall impact of the 2007 US Renewable Fuel Standard (the RFS2) on crop patterns. We find that the RFS2 increased total corn area by 9.7%, corn monoculture by 16.8%, and soybean area by 6.7%, with notable spatial heterogeneity in both the overall impact and the local effects of ethanol plants. The results indicate an RFS2‐induced shift in the geography of corn and soybean cultivation within the Corn Belt—intensification in the core, and significant expansion near the periphery.
Microplastics and nanoplastics in soil: Sources, impacts, and solutions for soil health and environmental sustainability
Authors: Nath Soumitra , Enerijiofi Kingsley Erhons , Astapati Ashim Das , Guha Anupam
Published: September 2024

The present review discusses the growing concern of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in soil, together with their sources, concentration, distribution, and impact on soil microorganisms, human health, and ecosystems. MPs and NPs can enter the soil through various pathways, such as agricultural activities, sewage sludge application, and atmospheric deposition. Once in the soil, they can accumulate in the upper layers and affect soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. The presence of MPs and NPs in soil can also have ecological consequences, acting as carriers for pollutants and contaminants, such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants. Additionally, the leaching of chemicals and additives from MPs and NPs can pose public health risks through the food web and groundwater contamination. The detection and analyses of MPs and NPs in soil can be challenging, and methods involve spectroscopic and microscopy techniques, such as Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. To mitigate the presence and effects of MPs and NPs in soil, it is essential to reduce plastic waste production, improve waste management practices, and adopt sustainable agricultural practices. Effective mitigation measures include implementing stricter regulations on plastic use, promoting biodegradable alternatives, and enhancing recycling infrastructure. Additionally, soil amendments, such as biochar and compost, can help immobilize MPs and NPs, reducing their mobility and bioavailability. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these emerging environmental issues and identify potential solutions to alleviate their impact on soil health, ecosystem functioning, and community health.
Radiation therapists' perceptions of participating in Professional Supervision – a pilot study
Authors: Dungey Gay , Thomson Sarah , Lopez Paula Rodriguez
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Professional Supervision (PS) is a common approach used to reduce the fallout from stress and burnout. It involves monthly face‐to‐face meetings between a supervisor and supervisee to address well‐being and professional goals. This pilot study examines 12 radiation therapists (RTs) perceptions of participating in PS.

Methods

Conducted in the Christchurch Radiation Oncology Centre, this mixed‐methods pilot study introduced PS in March 2022. In August 2023, 12 RTs completed a QUALTRICS online questionnaire consisting of 33 questions, including the Supervisor Working Alliance Inventory (SWAI). The SWAI assessed the alliance of supervision from a supervisee's perspective and comprised of 19 questions on a 7‐point Likert scale and nine yes/no statements with optional comments. Five demographic questions were also included.

Results

All 12 RTs completed the questionnaire, with quantitative results indicating a positive alliance between supervisors and supervisees. RTs found PS to be a safe and comfortable space for reflective practice and support. Thematic analysis of qualitative data from additional comments revealed PS enabled RTs to reflect on career achievements, appreciate highlights of being an RT and consider future career paths within the profession.

Conclusions

Radiation therapists responded positively to PS, suggesting its potential in managing workplace stressors, promoting career advancement and providing dedicated time for reflection, support and guidance. RTs endorsed the efficacy of PS in enhancing their practice and advocated for its widespread adoption among RTs.
Fermentation starters and bacteriocins as biocontrol strategies for table olives preservation: a mini‐review
Authors: Rus‐Fernández Patricia , Fuentes Ana
Published: September 2024

Biopreservation is a powerful strategy to prolong the shelf life of food products by applying naturally occurring microorganisms and/or their metabolites. Current food trends emphasise the need to develop alternatives for chemical or thermal preservation methods. In this line, different fermentation starters from table olives present the potential to control spoilage or pathogen‐occurring microorganism in table olives storage. One of the most interesting family used as biopreservative culture is Lactobacillaceae and it has also been used in combination with yeasts as olive fermentation starter. Lactic acid bacteria, from Lactobacillaceae family, are characterised by the production of bacteriocins, proteins with the potential for preserving food by changing the organisation of the membrane of spoilage microorganisms. These bacteriocins‐producing bacteria can be directly inoculated, although nanosystem technology is the most promising incorporation strategy. In table olives, the most commonly used starters are Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lactiplantibacillus pentosus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Wickerhamomyces anomalus, among others. These strains with biopreservation characteristics, inoculated alone or in mixed cultures, ensure food safety by conferring the product added value and prolonging product shelf life. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
A bone graft from the tibial resection or patella that rectified a tibial over‐resection reliably healed and improved clinical outcome scores: A retrospective study of kinematically aligned TKA
Authors: Nedopil Alexander J. , Razick Daniel , Howell Stephen M. , Hull Maury L.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

During kinematically aligned (KA) total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the surgeon may need to rectify an over‐resection of the medial, lateral or posterior tibia. This study tested the hypothesis that a bone graft taken from the tibial resection or patella and impacted beneath a tibial baseplate would heal, regardless of whether the tibial component and knee were in outlier ranges according to mechanical alignment (MA) criteria. The study also tested the hypothesis that the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS JR) would improve beyond the substantial clinical benefit and that the source and thickness of the bone graft would not influence their improvement.

Methods

This retrospective study radiographically assessed the healing of a bone graft from the tibial resection (n = 19) or patella (n = 10) in 29 KA TKAs (18 females, mean age 65 years). The tibial component and knee alignment were categorized as in‐range or outliers based on reported MA criteria for bone graft healing and implant survival. The one‐samplettest identified differences in the improvement of the OKS and KOOS JR from their reported substantial clinical benefit of 16 and 20 points, respectively.

Results

At an average follow‐up of 37 months, all bone grafts healed even though ≥55% of tibial components and 34% of knees were varus outliers according to MA criteria for bone healing and implant survival. Amongst the 29 patients, the mean OKS and KOOS JR improvements of 25 ± 11 and 47 ± 21 points, respectively, surpassed the threshold of their respective substantial clinical benefit (p < 0.01) and were not influenced by the bone graft's source and thickness (p ≥ 0.51).

Conclusions

During cemented KA TKA, the surgeon can use a bone graft from the tibial resection or patella to rectify a tibial over‐resection. This technique led to consistent bone healing and improved outcome scores.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Preventive Effect of Royal Jelly and 10‐HDA on Skin Damage in Diabetic Mice through Regulating Keratinocyte Wnt/β‐Catenin and Pyroptosis Pathway
Authors: Huang Xinqi , Xiu Lu , An Yumei , Gong Yuan , Li Sunao , Chen Xueshi , Liu Chao , Lu Jianghuiwen , Shan Haiyan , Chang Jie , Zhang Mingyang
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study is to elucidate how Royal jelly (RJ) and 10‐hydroxy‐2‐decanoic acid (10‐HDA) prevents diabetic skin dysfunction by modulating the pyroptosis pathway. Type 2 diabetes models are induced by fat diet consumption and low dose of streptozotocin (STZ) in C57BL/6J mice and treated with RJ (100 mg kg–1 day–1) and 10‐HDA, the major lipid component of royal jelly (100 mg kg−1 day−1) for 28 weeks. The results show that serum concentrations of glucose and triglyceride are significantly lower in the RJ group or 10‐HDA than diabetes mellitus (DM) group. Compared to the control group, pyroptosis proteins, GSDMD, ASC, Caspase‐1, and IL‐1β are increased in the skin of the diabetic model, accompanied by the activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signal pathway. Further evaluations by RJ exhibit superior improvement of skin damage, repress activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, and attenuate keratinocyte pyroptosis, but 10‐HDA cannot completely suppress the activation of Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and pyroptosis, which shows a relatively weak protective effect on skin damage which shows that RJ is a better effect on skin injury after DM.
Characterizing the Rise in Dupilumab Prescriptions and Costs: A Medicare Part D Study
Authors: Torabi Sina J. , Patel Rahul A. , Bitner Benjamin F. , Manes R. Peter , Kuan Edward C.
Published: September 2024

Dupilumab indications have expanded since 2017 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, though evolving prescribing patterns remains to be explored. Annual 2017 to 2021 Medicare Part D claims data was queried. The number of prescribers rose from 142 in 2017 to 6244 in 2021 (r = 0.971; P = .006). Accordingly, the number of Medicare claims and costs both rose, from 2444 to 157,401 (r = 0.986; P = .002) and from $7.59 million to $540.5 million (r = 0.982; P = .003), respectively. While dermatologists made up the bulk of providers in 2017 (78.9%), they only made up 38.1% of providers in 2021. Otolaryngologists were the least represented specialty. In 2021, most providers (98.0%) had only 10 or fewer Medicare patients for whom they prescribed dupilumab. Dupilumab is becoming an increasingly prevalent treatment modality for a variety of indications in the Medicare population. This comes with an incredibly large financial burden on patients and Medicare. The profile of prescribers has changed, mirroring the FDA‐approved indications.
Cobalt‐Doped ZnO Nanocomposits for Efficient Dye Degradation: Charge Transfer
Authors: Abebe Buzuayehu , Kefale Bontu , Amenu Guta , Guta Leta , Ravikumar C. R. , Hamdalla Taymour A. , Giridhar Reddy S. , Tsegaye Dereje , Murthy H. C. Ananda
Published: September 2024

Doping enhances the optical properties of high‐band gap zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), essential for their photocatalytic activity. We used the combustion approach to synthesize cobalt‐doped ZnO heterostructure (CDZO). By creating a mid‐edge level, it was possible to tune the indirect band gap of the ZnO NPs from 3.1 eV to 1.8 eV. The red shift and reduction in the intensity of the photoluminescence (PL) spectra resulted from hindrances in electron‐hole recombination and sp‐d exchange interactions. These improved optical properties expanded the absorption of solar light and enhanced charge transfer. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) image and elemental mapping analysis confirmed the CDZO′s porous nature and the dopant‘s uniform distribution. The porosity, nanoscale size (25–55 nm), and crystallinity of the CDZO were further verified by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and selected area electron image analysis. The photocatalytic activity of the CDZO exhibited much greater efficiency (k=0.131 min−1) than that of ZnO NPs (k=0.017 min−1). Therefore, doped heterostructures show great promise for industrial‐scale environmental remediation applications.
High‐Pressure Synthesis and Crystal Structure of the Inoborate Ni[B2O2(OH)4]
Authors: Pasqualini Leonard Conrad , Huppertz Hubert
Published: September 2024

The novel inoborate Ni[B2O2(OH)4] was synthesized under high‐pressure/high‐temperature conditions of 9 GPa and 800 °C. Its structure was determined via single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The single‐grain IR‐spectrum of Ni[B2O2(OH)4] supports the existence of O−H bonds. The structural similarities and differences with the mineral vimsite, possessing the sum formula Ca[B2O2(OH)4], as well as with the phylloborate HP−Ni(B2O4) is discussed. The title compound can be described as the structural hydrolysis product of the latter.
Ergebnisse
Authors: Tanner Iris
Published: September 2024

Der Ergebnisteil ist so gegliedert, dass zuerst die Tabellen, welche aus der dokumentierten Sichtung hervorgegangen sind, aufgezeigt und beschrieben werden (vgl. Kapitel 7.1), bevor im nächsten Unterkapitel auf die detaillierten deskriptiven und quantitativen Resultate zum Ablauf des Problemlösevorganges (vgl. Kapitel 7.2) und zur Interaktionsstruktur (vgl. Kapitel 7.3) eingegangen wird. Alle diese deskriptiven und quantitativen Ergebnisse ermöglichen eine Situierung der ausgewählten Fälle für die Fallbeschreibungen (vgl. Kapitel 7.4) und Portraits (vgl. Kapitel 7.5) und stellen zugleich die Spannweite der unterschiedlichen Problemlösevorgänge dar sowohl in Bezug auf den fachlichen Aufbau als auch in Bezug auf die sprachlich-interaktiven Aspekte der untersuchten Lehr-Lerngespräche.  Um diese Spannweite auf der Mikroebene der verbalen Interaktion deutlicher zu veranschaulichen, sind zudem Steckbriefe von weiteren elf Fällen gemacht worden (vgl. Kapitel 7.6). Am Ende dieses Ergebniskapitels wird eine Gruppierung der im Detail untersuchte Fällen in drei Interaktionsmuster vorgeschlagen (vgl. Kapitel 7.7).
Quality over quantity - rethinking social participation in dementia prevention: results from the AgeWell.de trial
Authors: Kosilek Robert P. , Wendel Flora , Zöllinger Isabel , Knecht Hanna Lea , Blotenberg Iris , Weise Solveig , Fankhänel Thomas , Döhring Juliane , Williamson Martin , Luppa Melanie , Zülke Andrea E. , Brettschneider Christian , Wiese Birgitt , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Frese Thomas , König Hans-Helmut , Kaduszkiewicz Hanna , Thyrian Jochen René , Riedel-Heller Steffi G. , Gensichen Jochen
Published: September 2024

Background

Social participation as a protective factor against cognitive decline was one of the targets in the AgeWell.de study, a multi-domain interventional trial in a sample of older adults at increased risk for dementia. This study aimed to examine differential effects of the intervention and other influencing factors on social participation throughout the trial.

Methods

A longitudinal analysis of study data at the primary follow-up after 24 months (n = 819) was conducted. The Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6) was used to assess quantitative aspects of social networks, and self-reported social activities were classified using a three-tiered categorical framework to capture qualitative aspects.

Results

A positive effect of the intervention was observed at the qualitative framework level, with an OR of 1.38 [95% CI: 1.05–1.82] for achieving or maintaining higher social participation at follow-up, while no effect could be detected on quantitative social network characteristics. Later phases of the Covid-19 pandemic showed a negative impact on the level of social participation at follow-up with an OR of 0.84 [95% CI: 0.75–0.95].

Conclusions

These findings suggest that by focusing on qualitative aspects of social participation as a component of dementia prevention, future interventions can promote enriched social interactions within established social networks.

Trial Registration

German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) ID DRKS00013555.