bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of Uveitis in Dengue Fever Patients: A Population‐Based Cohort Study in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Bing‐Qi , Kuo Hou‐Ting , Hsu Alan Y. , Lin Chun‐Ju , Tien Peng‐Tai , Hsia Ning‐Yi , Cheng Yih‐Dih , Hsieh Yow‐Wen , Huang Yu‐Han , Wang Sing‐Ting , Lai Chun‐Ting , Shao Yi‐Ching , Chiang Chun‐Chi , Tseng Hsin , Chen Huan‐Sheng , Tsai Yi‐Yu
Published: December 2024

Dengue‐related ocular complications were considered rare, but recent evidence points to a broader spectrum of manifestations, including uveitis. This study utilized the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) to investigate the incidence of uveitis in dengue patients, aiming to fill this research gap. This population‐based, retrospective cohort study utilized the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) and included patients with and without Dengue fever. The non‐Dengue fever cohort comprised randomly selected control patients who were matched. Hazard ratios and Kaplan–Meier analysis were conducted to compare the incidence of uveitis in the Dengue and non‐Dengue cohorts. Subgroup analyses were carried out based on age groups, genders, and comorbidities. A total of 26 950 patients diagnosed with Dengue fever were included in the study (49.6% female, mean age at index 41.63 years). Based on a 1:4 matching ratio, 107 800 control subjects without uveitis (50.03% female, mean age at index 41.41 years) were also included. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of uveitis was higher in the Dengue fever group than in the non‐Dengue fever group (aHR = 1.38, p < 0.001). A history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) was not associated with uveitis. Stratified analyses revealed that patients with Dengue fever had an increased risk regardless of their sex and age. The Kaplan–Meier method with the log‐rank test showed a significantly higher cumulative incidence of uveitis in the Dengue fever cohort than in the non‐Dengue fever cohort (p < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis for most major comorbidities, the significantly higher risk for uveitis in those patients with Dengue fever, was only demonstrated in the subgroups of those without these major comorbidities. Our findings showed Dengue infection to be associated with increased risk for uveitis. Clinicians should be attentive to a history of stroke or TIA in patients with Dengue fever.
Fish oil lipid emulsion compared with soybean oil lipid emulsion in pediatric patients with parenteral nutrition‐associated cholestasis: A cost‐effectiveness study
Authors: Povero Massimiliano , Gura Kathleen M. , Premkumar Muralidhar H. , Pradelli Lorenzo , Puder Mark , Calkins Kara L.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Evidence indicates that, in pediatric patients with parenteral nutrition–associated cholestasis (PNAC), the use of a 100% fish oil lipid emulsion (FOLE) increased the likelihood of PNAC resolution and reduced the likelihood of liver transplantation compared with a 100% soybean oil lipid emulsion (SOLE). To evaluate the potential economic benefit, we conducted a cost‐effectiveness analysis comparing FOLE with SOLE.

Study Design

A discrete event simulation model evaluated cost‐effectiveness by simulating clinical outcomes and estimating associated healthcare costs in pediatric patients with PNAC receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) with FOLE (1 g/kg) or SOLE (1.9 g/kg) over a time horizon of 6 years. Model inputs for clinical outcomes were derived from the integrated analysis of two US Phase 3 trials (NCT00910104 and NCT00738101). Cost estimates were estimated from the perspective of the US payer including the cost of PN, transplantation, and adverse events.

Results

The total cost associated with FOLE was $69,847 USD vs $141,605 USD for SOLE. The cost reduction of $71,757 USD was attributable to the avoidance of liver transplantation (−15.7%) and reduction in adverse events (−4.8%). Life‐years and the quality‐adjusted life‐years were increased with FOLE compared with SOLE (by 0.248 and 0.295, respectively).

Conclusion

By reducing the need for liver transplant and providing time to transition to full enteral nutrition, FOLE leads to cost‐savings, compared with SOLE, in pediatric patients with PNAC in the perspective of the US payer. These findings support the use of FOLE in pediatric patients with PNAC who require PN.
Effects of black soybean peel anthocyanins on the structural and functional properties of wheat gluten
Authors: Wu Tongyun , Sun Jianxia , Bai Weibin
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Wheat gluten (WG) is a crucial cereal protein commonly utilized in the food, biological and pharmaceutical industries. However, WG is poorly soluble in water, resulting in poor functional properties, which restrict its application in the food industry. As a result, there is an urgent need for improving the properties of WG.

RESULTS

This study was conducted to examine the functional properties of WG after binding with black soybean peel anthocyanin extract (BAE). Results showed that BAE enhanced the solubility, water‐holding and antioxidant capacity, foaming properties and emulsifying activity of WG, while decreasing the emulsion stability. The degree of hydrolysis of WG and retention rate of BAE became higher in the digested WG–BAE complex than in the control groups. Additionally, an analysis was conducted on the mechanism of interaction between cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (C3G) and WG/gliadin (Gli)/glutenin (Glu). The secondary structure of WG/Gli/Glu was altered after adding C3G. C3G had high affinity for WG/Gli/Glu since their binding constants were greater than 104 L mol−1. The primary binding forces between C3G and WG/Gli were hydrophobic interactions, whereas the main interaction forces between C3G and Glu were hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces. Moreover, C3G increased the thermal stability and changed the network structure of WG/Gli/Glu.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that BAE effectively enhanced a range of functional properties of WG. The interaction between WG and BAE also improved the bioavailability and nutritional value of them. Furthermore, the interaction mode between BAE and WG was investigated. These findings lay a foundation for utilizing gluten–anthocyanins in the food sector. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
From physicochemical characteristics variability to purple passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. edulis) powders nutritional value: on the path of zero‐waste
Authors: Fonseca Alexandre M. A. , Silvestre Armando J. D. , Rocha Sílvia M.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Purple passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. edulis) is a highly appreciated fruit typically consumed in fresh or processed into various food products. The peel and seeds, which are by‐products of fruit processing, are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds with potential to be valorised into food applications. However, raw material variability is often a major obstacle to successfully achieve such valorisation. The present study aimed to contribute to a zero‐waste valorisation strategy of purple passion fruit by evaluating its temporal variability and provide a comprehensive insight into the nutritional value of fruit fraction powders.

RESULTS

Fruit analysis demonstrated similar characteristics between three consecutive harvests because variation observed on maturity parameters, fruit mass and dimensions, fractions fresh weight, moisture, total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity was not significant. This was attained despite variable weather conditions, as long as irrigation was provided during fruit development to avoid water stress. The development and subsequent analysis of the nutritional value of minimum processed powders of the fruit (peel, pulp and seeds) revealed that they can be used as a source of several macronutrients, essential minerals and vitamins. A single serving (10 g) of these fruit powders provide enough fiber (peel and seeds) and vitamin C (peel and pulp) to sustain nutritional claims.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides valuable insights into the maintenance of physicochemical properties of all fruit fractions across three consecutive harvests. The nutritional characterization of fruit fractions also contributes to move towards a zero‐waste value chain in passion fruit processing through whole fruit usage. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Multimodality Treatment Outcome in Adult Patients with Head and Neck Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Wang Tian , Huang Chuang , Wang Jie , Tang Tianci , Li Qiang , Li Yi , Song Xinmao
Published: December 2024

Objective(s)

Head and neck rhabdomyosarcoma (HNRMS) is a rare malignant tumor in adults. No standard treatment for adults with HNRMS currently exists.

Methods

A retrospective study of 72 newly diagnosed consecutive adult patients with HNRMS was conducted at one institution between November 2010 and April 2023. The log‐rank tests were used to compare the differences in survival between treatment groups, and overall survival (OS), local recurrence‐free survival (LRFS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS) were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. We used restricted cubic spline models fitted for Cox proportional hazards models to determine the association between chemotherapy cycles/radiotherapy dose and mortality.

Results

The 2‐year OS, PFS, LRFS, and DMFS rates for the entire cohort were 51.0%, 39.2%, 44.3%, and 47.3%, respectively. Radiotherapy significantly improved the OS (p < 0.01), PFS (p < 0.01), LRFS (p < 0.01), and DMFS (p < 0.01). Surgery had no effect on OS (49.3% vs. 53.0%, p = 0.62), PFS (36.9% vs. 41.8%, p = 0.31), LRFS (41.6% vs. 47.4%, p = 0.27), or DMFS (44.4% vs. 50.2%, p = 0.43). The restricted cubic spline showed that eight (HR = 1.002, 95% CI: 0.996–1.007) cycles of chemotherapy and 62.5Gy radiation therapy resulted in the lowest mortality.

Conclusion

For HNRMS, eight cycles of chemotherapy and 62.5Gy of radiation might be sufficient. Poor response to chemotherapy predicted an extreme worse outcome. Surgery played a limited role in the treatment.

Level of Evidence

III Laryngoscope, 2024
Identifying and quantifying unexpected deep zooplankton diel vertical migration in a large deep lake
Authors: Piton Violaine , Reiss Rafael , Lemmin Ulrich , Anneville Orlane , Many Gaël , Keller Jérémy , Kindschi Valentin , Wynn Htet Kyi , Rasconi Serena , Laine Leslie , Barry David Andrew
Published: December 2024

Diel Vertical Migration (DVM), a widespread zooplankton behavior in freshwater and marine systems, affects ecological interactions and biogeochemical cycles. In lakes, DVM has mainly been studied in the upper 50 m of the water column. However, based on acoustic and net sampling data collected in Lake Geneva, Switzerland (~ 309 m depth) during summer 2022, we demonstrate that DVM occurs down to ~ 125 m depth daily throughout the summer season. The daily descents terminated at around zenith when the Relative Rate of light Change (RRC) was the lowest, and the late afternoon ascent started when RRC values exceeded −0.005 s−1. DVM migration descent/ascent rates were asymmetric with faster mean upward rates () than downward rates (). Migration rates overall increased as summer progressed, corresponding to the intra‐seasonal increase in RRC. Cyclopoid copepods Cyclops prealpinus abundances correlated with the observed deep DVM and their migration responded to exogenous light cues. These new findings, which can also be expected to be relevant for other deep lakes, indicate that Lake Geneva's DVM greatly exceeds maximum migration depths previously reported for a lake. Thus, it is important to study zooplankton DVM dynamics throughout the entire water column in large, deep lakes since it plays an important role in buffering global climate change effects. Furthermore, it is suggested that present zooplankton DVM sampling protocols in large, deep lakes should be revised accordingly.
Temperature, pH, and diet interactively affect biosynthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids in a benthic harpacticoid copepod
Authors: Boyen Jens , Rodríguez María T. , Vlaeminck Bruno , Fink Patrick , Hablützel Pascal I. , De Troch Marleen
Published: December 2024

Greenhouse gas emissions lead to ocean warming and acidification, negatively impacting marine organisms and their functioning, including long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC‐PUFA) production by marine microalgae. Copepods, primary consumers of microalgae, possess a unique capacity for endogenous LC‐PUFA biosynthesis, possibly enabling them to cope with reduced dietary LC‐PUFA availabilities. However, this capacity may be itself impacted by changing oceanographic conditions. In this study, we conducted a laboratory experiment to evaluate the combined effects of warming (+3°C), acidification (−0.4 pH), and dietary LC‐PUFA deficiency on the fatty acid composition and LC‐PUFA biosynthesis (measured by quantitative RT‐PCR) of the benthic harpacticoid copepod Platychelipus littoralis (Brady, 1880). We hypothesized increased LC‐PUFA biosynthesis under all drivers compensating for LC‐PUFA reductions. Lipid profiles of copepods exposed to multiple stressors contained shorter‐chained and more saturated fatty acids. While copepods maintained base‐line relative concentrations of the physiologically important LC‐PUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on an LC‐PUFA deficient diet at ambient temperatures, DHA concentrations decreased significantly with higher temperatures. Expression of the DHA biosynthesis genes Δ4 front‐end desaturase and elovl1a increased under dietary LC‐PUFA deficiency but did not exceed base‐line levels when simultaneously exposed to acidification. Expression of Δ4 front‐end desaturase and multiple elongases correlated positively with C18 precursor concentrations and negatively with those of LC‐PUFAs such as DHA, indicating their role as LC‐PUFA biosynthesis enzymes. Overall, our findings suggest that ocean warming and acidification may impede benthic copepods' LC‐PUFA biosynthesis capacity under reduced dietary inputs, limiting their contribution toward global LC‐PUFA availability for higher trophic levels.
Metastatic brain tumors: from development to cutting‐edge treatment
Authors: Tanzhu Guilong , Chen Liu , Ning Jiaoyang , Xue Wenxiang , Wang Ce , Xiao Gang , Yang Jie , Zhou Rongrong
Published: December 2024

Metastatic brain tumors, also called brain metastasis (BM), represent a challenging complication of advanced tumors. Tumors that commonly metastasize to the brain include lung cancer and breast cancer. In recent years, the prognosis for BM patients has improved, and significant advancements have been made in both clinical and preclinical research. This review focuses on BM originating from lung cancer and breast cancer. We briefly overview the history and epidemiology of BM, as well as the current diagnostic and treatment paradigms. Additionally, we summarize multiomics evidence on the mechanisms of tumor occurrence and development in the era of artificial intelligence and discuss the role of the tumor microenvironment. Preclinically, we introduce the establishment of BM models, detailed molecular mechanisms, and cutting‐edge treatment methods. BM is primarily treated with a comprehensive approach, including local treatments such as surgery and radiotherapy. For lung cancer, targeted therapy and immunotherapy have shown efficacy, while in breast cancer, monoclonal antibodies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and antibody–drug conjugates are effective in BM. Multiomics approaches assist in clinical diagnosis and treatment, revealing the complex mechanisms of BM. Moreover, preclinical agents often need to cross the blood–brain barrier to achieve high intracranial concentrations, including small‐molecule inhibitors, nanoparticles, and peptide drugs. Addressing BM is imperative.
Combined pyrotinib and fulvestrant for hormone receptor‐positive and HER2‐positive metastatic breast cancer: A multicenter, single‐arm, phase II trial
Authors: Zhao Jianli , Yu Yunfang , Ren Wei , Ding Linxiaoxiao , Chen Yongjian , Yuan Peng , Yue Jian , Yang Yaping , Zou Guorong , Chen Tao , Chai Jie , Zhang Li , Wu Wenjing , Zeng Yinduo , Gui Xiujuan , Cai Yangyang , Luo Simin , Yuan Zhongyu , Zhang Kang , Yao Herui , Wang Ying
Published: December 2024

This multicenter, single‐arm, phase II clinical trial (NCT04034589) evaluated the efficacy and safety of pyrotinib combined with fulvestrant in patients with HR‐positive/HER2‐positive metastatic breast cancer who had experienced trastuzumab treatment failure. A total of 46 patients were enrolled, receiving pyrotinib orally once daily and fulvestrant intramuscularly on days 1 and 15 of cycle 1, followed by monthly doses on day 1. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS), while secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and safety. The median PFS was 18.2 months (95% CI, 11.9–31.1) overall, 19.5 months (95% CI, 10.6–NA) for those receiving the combination as first‐line therapy, and 18.4 months (95% CI, 16.7–NA) for patients with brain metastases. Median OS was not reached, with a 3‐year OS rate of 75.2% (95% CI, 62.8–90.2%). The ORR was 32.5%, and the DCR was 97.5%. Responses were observed in patients with low tumor mutation burden and ZNF217 mutation. Importantly, no grade 4 or higher treatment‐related adverse events or deaths were reported, indicating a favorable safety profile. In conclusion, the combination of pyrotinib and fulvestrant demonstrated promising antitumor activity and acceptable safety in HR‐positive/HER2‐positive metastatic breast cancer patients.
Subthalamic γ Oscillation Underlying Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Abnormality in Parkinsonian Patients
Authors: Guan Lingxiao , Yu Huiling , Chen Yue , Gong Chen , Hao Hongwei , Guo Yi , Xu Shujun , Zhang Yuhuan , Yuan Xuemei , Yin Guoping , Zhang Jianguo , Tan Huiling , Li Luming
Published: December 2024

Background

Abnormal rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, including REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and reduced REM sleep, is common in Parkinson's disease (PD), highlighting the importance of further study on REM sleep. However, the biomarkers of REM disturbances remain unknown, leading to the lack of REM‐specific neuromodulation interventions.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the neurophysiological biomarkers of REM disturbance in parkinsonian patients.

Methods

Ten PD patients implanted with bilateral subthalamic nucleus‐deep brain stimulation (STN‐DBS) were included in this study, of whom 4 were diagnosed with RBD. Sleep monitoring was conducted 1 month after surgery. Subthalamic local field potentials (LFP) were recorded through sensing‐enabled DBS. The neurophysiological features of subthalamic LFP during phasic and tonic microstates of REM sleep and their correlation with REM sleep fragmentation and RBD were analyzed.

Results

Differences in subthalamic γ oscillation between phasic and tonic REM correlated positively with the severity of REM sleep fragmentation. Patients with RBD also exhibited stronger γ oscillations during REM sleep compared with non‐RBD patients, and both increased β and γ were found before the onset of RBD episodes. Stimulation changes in simulated γ‐triggered feedback modulation followed more closely with phasic REM density, whereas an opposite trend was found in simulated β‐triggered feedback modulation.

Conclusion

Excess subthalamic γ oscillations may contribute to REM instability and RBD, suggesting that γ oscillation could serve as a feedback signal for adaptive DBS for REM sleep disorders. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Existence and Uniqueness Results for Fractional Differential Equations With Nonlocal Conditions in Lp$$ {L}^p $$ Spaces
Authors: Kumar Saha Kiran , Sukavanam N.
Published: December 2024

This paper deals with nonlocal initial value problems (IVPs) for modified Caputo fractional differential equations (FDEs) of order . The novelty of this work is that the nonlinearity is considered in spaces, where , instead of the conventional space of continuous functions. In each scenario, we meticulously derive the equivalences between the FDEs and the corresponding integral equations in the spaces of interest. Several new existence and uniqueness results based on the Banach contraction principle are established, imposing weaker assumptions on the data as much as possible. To exemplify our main results, we present three constructive examples, together with their corresponding unique solution trajectories.
Local Well‐Posedness to the Magneto‐Micropolar Boundary Layer Equations in Gevrey Space
Authors: Tan Zhong , Zhang Mingxue
Published: December 2024

We study the boundary layer equations for two‐dimensional magneto‐micropolar boundary layer system and establish the existence and uniqueness of solutions in the Gevrey function space without any structural assumption, with Gevrey index . Inspired by the abstract Cauchy‐Kovalevskaya theorem, our proof is based on a new cancellation mechanism in the system to overcome the difficulties caused by the loss of derivatives. Our results improve the classical local well‐posedness results presented in a previous study, specifically for cases where the initial data are analytic in the ‐variable.
Investigation of Potential Food Intake Biomarkers by LC‐MS/MS: Suitability Under Conditions Close to Everyday Live
Authors: Frank Amelie , Hübner Florian , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich
Published: December 2024

Scope

Food intake biomarkers are proposed to be a more reliable tool for investigating the nutritional status compared to food diaries or food frequency questionnaires. Nevertheless, biomarkers have some disadvantages such as the influence of the individual lifestyle, different metabolism, nutrient–nutrient interaction or the specificity of the used biomarkers. To evaluate the suitability of several biomarkers, a study under conditions close to everyday life was conducted.

Methods and results

Ten healthy volunteers were divided into three groups who followed different meal plans for 24 h and collected their entire urine. Afterward, several potential biomarkers were quantified using an LC‐MS/MS approach. To further investigate the suitability of those biomarkers, the results were investigated with the main goal of grouping the participants according to their provided diet, while the first author did not have any knowledge of the meal plans or other specific knowledge about the study design.

Conclusion

The use of different biomarkers enables the evaluation of different eating habits without any prior wash out period or bigger than usual portion sizes. Especially long‐term biomarkers seem to have a good suitability. Very high intakes and very low intakes are easier to distinguish than a moderate intake. Food intake biomarkers are proposed as a more reliable tool than food diaries or food frequency questionnaires. Nevertheless, data under realistic conditions are rarely available. In this study, ten volunteers were divided into three groups with different meal plans. An LC‐MS/MS approach was performed and the data were further investigated with the main goal of grouping the participants according their provided diet, while the first author did not have any knowledge about the meal plans.
Computational NMR Structural Revision of Marinoaziridines A and B
Authors: Navarro‐Vázquez Armando
Published: December 2024

The putative structures of alkaloids marinoaziridine A and B, the last a recent target of total synthesis, are here revised, on the basis of NMR computer‐assisted structural elucidation and DFT prediction of 1H and 13C chemical shifts, as pyrroloquinoline alkaloids structurally very similar to the marinoquinolines isolated from the same source.
The challenge of integrating a diagnosis of malnutrition in the practical application of nutrition care in the intensive care unit
Authors: McClave Stephen A. , Omer Endashaw M. , Lowen Cynthia C. , Martindale Robert G.
Published: December 2024

Evidence of poor nutrition status in a patient present on admission to the intensive care unit is associated with worse clinical outcomes than that for a well‐nourished patient who becomes critically ill. Diagnosing malnutrition in this setting is fraught with difficulty, though, because elements of nutrition history are hard to obtain, the interpretation of anthropometric parameters is influenced by the disease process and interventions of critical care and the subjectivity of traditional assessment tools lacks precision. Determining the severity of disease drives the initial management and sets priorities in the derivation of the nutrition plan, focusing on strategies that promote survival. Its design should provide safe and effective nutrition support, avoiding aggressive feeding to make up for deficits in the acute phase of critical illness. In time, with resuscitation and stabilization, addressing pre‐existing or developing malnutrition will change management and alter the design of the nutrition therapy.
Long‐term enteral nutrition with a nasogastric tube can be safe and effective: A case report
Authors: Duerksen James M. , Ramjiawan Bram , Duerksen Donald R.
Published: December 2024

Home enteral nutrition (HEN) is a vital feeding practice for those who have chronic disorders that prevent them from eating normally. Although short‐term feeding is predominantly done via nasogastric (NG) tubes and long‐term feeding is done via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube, we present a case that demonstrates that the long‐term use of NG tubes may be possible. Our case involves an adult woman who has been fed via an NG tube for >3 years with no complications. She has had three replacement tubes inserted over these 3 years and has not required any healthcare visits related to tube dysfunction or complications. She continues to do well. A literature search determined that there are no reports of long‐term use (greater than a year) of NG feeding tubes in outpatient adults, and thus the true rate of complications related to NG tubes is unknown. We review the reported complications associated with long‐term PEG tubes. Although PEGs are typically regarded as safer in long‐term feeding situations, this case demonstrates that NG tubes could prove effective under certain circumstances in which the insertion of a PEG may not be possible.
Development of Hybrid Polyvinylidene Fluoride‐Barium Titanate/Polyvinyl Alcohol‐Hydroxyapatite Co‐Electrospun Piezoelectric Scaffold as a Stimulator for Bone Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Askarzadeh Neda , Sherafat Zahra , Sani Mahsa , Azarpira Negar
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, piezoelectric composites have attracted greatly significant interest in the field of bone tissue engineering. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) exhibits the highest piezoelectric properties among polymers and enables the fabrication of biocompatible, biodegradable, and hydrophilic scaffolds that reveal satisfactory mechanical, biological, and piezoelectric characteristics. The present study developed PVDF‐barium titanate (BT)/polyvinyl alcohol‐hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds with differing PVDF/PVA ratios through co‐electrospinning techniques. Comprehensive analyses of their physical, mechanical, and biological properties were conducted. The resulting scaffolds displayed a uniform, bead‐free morphology, comprising PVDF and PVA fibers containing BT and HA, respectively. Wettability, mechanical, and piezoelectric properties were estimated using a contact angle goniometer, tensile test, and piezometer. The addition of BT and HA improved the hydrophilicity of the final scaffolds. On the other hand, the addition of PVA slightly reduced the overall mechanical strength; however, this reduction was not statistically significant. Additionally, BT and HA enhanced the piezoelectric performance, while PVA contributed to a decrease in these properties. Among the fabricated composites, the PBT4‐PH20 (60‐40) exhibited superior wettability and piezoelectric characteristics alongside acceptable mechanical strength. In vitro evaluations indicated that this composite demonstrated enhanced biodegradability and bioactivity compared to the others, effectively supporting cell attachment, proliferation, and promoting calcium mineralization. Given these promising results, the PBT4‐PH20 (60‐40) composite has strong potential as a scaffold for bone regeneration applications.
A machine learning based prediction model for the impact mechanical response of composite laminates considering microstructure sensitive transverse properties
Authors: Yiben Zhang , Guangshuo Feng , Bo Liu
Published: December 2024

The accurate and efficient prediction of impact mechanical response is crucial for safety design of composite structures. In this work, high‐fidelity representative volume elements (RVEs) with fiber, matrix and fiber/matrix interface are established, in which random fiber distributions are considered. A failure envelope under transverse loads is proposed based on computational micromechanical RVEs, and it is implemented by ABAQUS VUMAT subroutines to predict the mechanical response of composite laminates under impact loads. Based on a dataset from computational macromechanical finite element simulations, an artificial neural network model is established and trained. It is found that the random fiber distribution introduced a more obvious fluctuation to tension/compression strength than shear strength. The proposed failure criteria showed a better performance than Hashin and Tsai‐Wu criteria especially in combined compression and shear loads. An ANN model with 8 hidden layers can achieve the prediction with an acceptable coefficient of determination (R2) 0.98 and loss functions of mean absolute error (MAE) 71. For certain impact loading conditions, the well trained machine learning model predicted impact contact force history within 30 min, while the FEA costs about more than 75 min on the same computer. The prediction speed is increased by over 60% for certain impact loading conditions. It is hence shown that this method provides a potential alternative for evaluation of the impact resistance of composite structures.

Highlights

High‐fidelity computational micromechanics analysis based on representative volume elements are performed to uncover the complex relationship between microstructure and transverse strengths of composite laminates.

The microstructure dependent transverse strength criterion shows high accuracy in combined compression and shear loads compared with Hashin and Tsai‐Wu criteria.

A multi‐layer artificial neural network model is established and trained for the rapid prediction of impact force history for composite laminates.

The rapid prediction method is achieved with a coefficient of determination of 0.98, and the prediction speed is increased by more than 60% for certain impact loading conditions.
Theoretical modeling of the interfacial shear and contact stresses of 2D braided composite cylinders
Authors: Mojarrad Maryam Zeynivand , Gharehaghaji Ali Akbar , Dabiryan Hadi , Rezadoust Amir Masoud
Published: December 2024

This research aims to develop an analytical model to predict the interfacial shear stress distribution and contact stress of 2D braided composite cylinders. For this purpose, a tubular structure including a helix braid on a cylindrical mandrel is considered. The interfacial shear stress and axial tensile stress in the composite structure was estimated by applying shear lag assumptions. The contact normal stress and adhesion energy were estimated by applying the assumptions of Johnson‐Kendall‐Robert (JKR) and the Hertzian contact stress theory. The results show that the geometry of the braid and different braid yarn paths have a significant influence on the interfacial shear stress, normal stress in the contact zone, and adhesion energy of composite cylinders. As a novel approach, the proposed model considers the effect of surface roughness in the composite. The results of a parametric study indicated that the composite cylinders with larger braiding angles have lower debonding initiation force. The results also showed that the yarn diameter affected the pullout force in composite cylinders by a large extent.

Highlights

Normal contact stress and adhesion energy of composite cylinders are affected by the braid yarn path.

The 30° composite presented the largest adhesion energy and normal contact stress.

Normal tensile stress and interfacial shear stress are influenced by the reinforcement path in the composite.

Normal tensile stress and interfacial shear stress in composite cylinders decreased with increased braid angle.
Impact of salt and fillers on the rheological properties of polymer composites
Authors: Teymoory Parya , Driscoll Stephen Burke , Zhao Jingzhou , Shen Caiwei
Published: December 2024

Polymer composites with salts or conductive fillers are promising for various solid‐state energy storage applications, where processability is often determined by their rheological properties. This study investigates the effect of lithium salts and conductive fillers on the rheological behavior of polylactic acid (PLA)‐based composites. We specifically examine how these additives influence complex viscosity and the interactions between the salt, fillers, and polymer. Our findings reveal that adding salt to the polymer reduces its viscosity, whereas adding conductive fillers imparts a shear‐thinning property, which is advantageous for thermal processing methods like thermal drawing, injection molding, or 3D printing. The combination of salt and conductive fillers results in multifunctional electrode‐electrolyte composites with enhanced shear‐thinning behavior and improved storage modulus. Characterizations through x‐ray diffraction, electrical measurements, and transmission electron microscopy link the electrical properties and morphology with rheological behavior. The formation of a robust filler network in these composites ensures stable viscoelastic behavior across a range of temperatures and frequencies, indicating their suitability for efficient manufacturing of polymer‐based solid‐state electrode‐electrolyte composites via thermal processing.

Highlights

Shear‐thinning behavior enhanced by conductive fillers.

Viscosity increased with CB and CNT fillers, forming robust networks.

Salt reduced viscosity but filler networks dominated flow behavior.

Filler combinations led to stable viscoelastic properties across temperatures.

Polymer electrolyte–electrode composites improved processability and storage modulus.
Cost‐Effectiveness Analysis of a Novel Fetal Vesicoamniotic Shunt—The Vortex Shunt
Authors: Schlacter Jamie A. , Danzer Enrico , Packer Claire H. , Johnson Eric , Caughey Aaron B. , Blumenfeld Yair J. , Sheth Kunj R.
Published: December 2024

Objective

We estimated the potential outcomes, costs, and cost‐effectiveness of the Vortex shunt, a novel fetal vesicoamniotic shunt (VAS), compared to standard shunts for treating fetal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO).

Method

We designed a decision‐analytic model comparing the Vortex shunt to current shunts using a theoretical cohort of 1000 pregnancies equivalent to the annual U.S. LUTO cases. Current literature indicates a 50% dislodgement risk and a 36% end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) probability for current shunts versus the Vortex shunt's expected 10% dislodgement risk and 18% ESRD rate from pre‐clinical studies. Outcomes included preterm delivery, preterm premature rupture of membrane (PPROM), ESRD, neurodevelopmental delay (NDD), neonatal death, costs, and quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs). We derived model inputs from the literature and conducted sensitivity analyses.

Results

Of 1000 theoretical LUTO pregnancies, the Vortex shunt resulted in 70 fewer cases of ESRD, 110 fewer preterm deliveries, 50 fewer episodes of PPROM, and 10 fewer children with NDD. The Vortex shunt was the dominant strategy with higher QALYs and estimated lifetime savings of $168,520 for each fetus undergoing VAS. The Vortex shunt was cost‐effective 98% of the time.

Conclusion

Our theoretical model suggests that the Vortex shunt is cost‐effective compared to current shunts.
Intervention‐Related Changes in Coping Ability Drives Improvements in Mood and Quality of Life for Patients Taking Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy
Authors: Walsh Leah E. , Dunderdale Laura , Horick Nora , Temel Jennifer S. , Greer Joseph A. , Jacobs Jamie M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

A recent randomized trial of a group psychosocial telehealth intervention (STRIDE) improved anxiety, depression, quality of life (QOL), symptom distress, coping, and self‐efficacy to manage symptoms related to taking adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) in women with non‐metastatic hormone receptor‐positive breast cancer. This study examined whether changes in coping and self‐efficacy mediated intervention effects on anxiety, depression, QOL, and symptom distress.

Method

Women (N = 100) were recruited between 10/2019‐06/2021 from Massachusetts General Hospital and were randomized to STRIDE or to the medication monitoring control group. Participants completed self‐report measures of anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), QOL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Breast Cancer scale), symptom distress (Breast Cancer Prevention Trial Symptom Scale), coping (Measure of Current Status–Part A), and self‐efficacy (Self Efficacy for Managing AET Symptoms) at baseline and 24‐week follow‐up. Mediated regression models tested whether changes in coping ability and self‐efficacy mediated the intervention effects on anxiety, depression, QOL, and symptom distress, controlling for key variables.

Results

Improvements in coping across the 24‐week study period mediated the effect of STRIDE on anxiety symptoms (indirect effect, B = −0.61, SE = 0.28, 95% CI: −1.28, −0.17), depressive symptoms (indirect effect, B = −0.50, SE = 0.21, 95% CI: −0.97, −0.15), and QOL (indirect effect, B = 3.80, SE = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.54, 6.49), but not symptom distress. Changes in self‐efficacy did not mediate improvements in any of the proposed outcomes.

Conclusion

Coping is an essential component of a brief group psychosocial intervention that drives improvements in mood and QOL for women with non‐metastatic hormone receptor‐positive breast cancer taking AET.

Clinical trial registration

NCT03837496.
Are We Estimating the Mean and Variance Correctly in the Presence of Observations Outside of Measurable Range?
Authors: Janošová Markéta , Katina Stanislav , Hanes Jozef
Published: December 2024

Laboratory measurements used for safety assessments in clinical trials are subject to the limits of the used laboratory equipment. These limits determine the range of values which the equipment can accurately measure. When observations fall outside the measurable range, this creates a problem in estimating parameters of the normal distribution. It may be tempting to use methods of estimation that are easy to implement, however selecting an incorrect method may lead to biased estimates (under‐ or overestimation) and change the research outcomes, for example, incorrect result of two‐sample test about means when comparing two populations or biased estimation of regression line. In this article, we consider the use of four methods: ignoring unmeasured observations, replacing unmeasured observations with a multiple of the limit, using a truncated normal distribution, and using a normal distribution with censored observations. To compare these methods we designed a simulation study and measured their accuracy in several different situations using relative error , ratio , and mean square errors of both parameters. Based on the results of this simulation study, if the amount of observations outside of measurable range is below 40%, we recommend using a normal distribution with censored observations in practice. These recommendations should be incorporated into guidelines for good statistical practice. If the amount of observations outside of measurable range exceeds 40%, we advise not to use the data for any statistical analysis. To illustrate how the choice of method can affect the estimates, we applied the methods to real‐life laboratory data.
Norleucine Substitution Enhances Self‐Assembly of a Lanthanide‐Binding Polypeptide Coiled Coil
Authors: Sarte Diego B. , Villaraza Aaron Joseph L.
Published: December 2024

A de novo lanthanide‐binding coiled‐coil polypeptide (MB1–2) was previously reported to self‐assemble into a trimeric complex upon addition of Tb3+ with a micromolar range dissociation constant. This study examines the effect of substitution of hydrophobic residues in heptad repeats of MB1–2 on the thermodynamic stability of the resulting Tb‐peptide complex. Substitution of isoleucine to norleucine in each heptad repeat was assessed considering the greater accessible surface area of the latter and predicted increased hydrophobic interaction. Job's method of continuous variation using circular dichroism spectroscopy suggests a trimeric structure for the analog complex equivalent to that formed by MB1–2. The dissociation constant and CD spectra suggest that complex formation in the analog is more favorable as a result of ligand preorganization. In addition, thermal denaturation suggests greater stability of the Tb‐MB1–2 Nle complex in comparison to the parent Tb‐MB1–2. These results indicate improved stability of the complex class can be achieved through heptad repeat amino acid substitutions that increase peptide interchain interaction.
A Supramolecular–Quantum Dot System for Broad‐Spectrum Detection of Fentanyl Analogs
Authors: Gao Yanjing , Shirinichi Farbod , Hansrisuk Audrey , Zhu Runyao , Xian Sijie , Lieberman Marya , Webber Matthew J. , Wang Yichun
Published: December 2024

Synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl and its analogs, have created an epidemic of abuse and significantly increased overdose deaths in the United States. Current detection methods have drawbacks in their sensitivity, scalability, and portability that limit field‐based application to promote public health and safety. The need to detect trace amounts of fentanyl in complex mixtures with other drugs or interferents, and the continued emergence of new fentanyl analogs, further complicates detection. Accordingly, there is an urgent need to develop convenient, rapid, and reliable sensors for fentanyl detection. In this study, a sensor is prepared based on competitive displacement of a fluorescent dye from the cavity of a supramolecular macrocycle, with subsequent fluorescence quenching from graphene quantum dots. This approach can detect and quantify small quantities of fentanyl along with 58 fentanyl analogs, including highly potent variants like carfentanil that are of increasing concern. Detection of these agents is possible even at 0.01 mol% in the presence of common interferents. This simple, rapid, reliable, sensitive, and cost‐effective approach couples supramolecular capture with graphene quantum dot nanomaterial quenchers to create a tool with the potential to advance public health and safety in the context of field‐based detection of drugs in the fentanyl class.
Activatable Molecular Probes With Clinical Promise for NIR‐II Fluorescent Imaging
Authors: Chen Zikang , Zhou Yongjie , Li Li , Ma Wen , Li Yuzhen , Yang Zhen
Published: December 2024

The second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II) fluorescence imaging has been widely adopted in basic scientific research and preclinical applications due to its exceptional spatiotemporal resolution and deep tissue penetration. Among the various fluorescent agents, organic small‐molecule fluorophores are considered the most promising candidates for clinical translation, owing to their well‐defined chemical structures, tunable optical properties, and excellent biocompatibility. However, many currently available NIR‐II fluorophores exhibit an “always‐on” fluorescence signal, which leads to background noise and compromises diagnostic accuracy during disease detection. Developing NIR‐II activatable organic small‐molecule fluorescent probes (AOSFPs) for accurately reporting pathological changes is key to advancing NIR‐II fluorescence imaging toward clinical application. This review summarizes the rational design strategies for NIR‐II AOSFPs based on four core structures (cyanine, hemicyanine, xanthene, and BODIPY). These NIR‐II AOSFPs hold substantial potential for clinical translation. Furthermore, the recent advances in NIR‐II AOSFPs for NIR‐II bioimaging are comprehensively reviewed, offering clear guidance and direction for their further development. Finally, the prospective efforts to advance NIR‐II AOSFPs for clinical applications are outlined.
Comparative Study of Extraction Methods and Screening of Cassava Genotypes for High Stem Starch Yield: A Potential Industrial Source
Authors: K. K. Hasmi Sulain , Saravanan Raju , Makasana Jayanti , Thulasimani Krishnakumar , Safia Shanavas
Published: December 2024

Cassava stem starch offers a promising alternative for meeting the growing demand for industrial starch applications. This study evaluated 15 high‐yielding cassava genotypes for starch recovery and analyzed the performance of four extraction methods, viz., water, alkaline (0.2% NaOH and 0.5% Na₂S₂O₅), microwave‐assisted, and ultrasound‐assisted. Water extraction using the microwave‐assisted method proved to be the most efficient to achieve the highest starch yields, while ultrasound‐assisted extraction also showed strong potential for specific applications. The starch yield showed significant variation among the evaluated genotypes. The assessed cassava genotypes, such as Black Thailand, Quintal, and Sree Athulya, revealed the maximum total starch content, while Sree Visakham and Sree Jaya recorded the lowest total starch yields. Kunkumrose and Black Thailand exhibited the highest peak viscosity, indicating suitability for food processing and adhesive applications. Sree Athulya had the highest setback viscosity, making it ideal for products requiring strong gel formation. Genotype M4 demonstrated the highest in vitro digestibility, suggesting its potential for biofuel or pharmaceutical uses. These findings provide valuable insights for selecting cassava genotypes based on their starch characteristics, which are crucial for optimizing industrial applications in food, biofuels, bioplastics, and adhesives. The study underscores the need for careful genotype selection and process optimization to maximize cassava starch utilization.