bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the Zushima patch combined with celecoxib on pain and inflammatory factor expression in knee osteoarthritis with cold‐dampness obstruction
Authors: Yang Yumin , Sun Lijun , Peng Zhao , Li Xiumin , Chen Yan
Published: November 2024

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease that frequently occurs in middle‐aged and older individuals. Although celecoxib is a commonly used drug for the treatment of KOA, its efficacy and safety have limitations. Zushima, a traditional Chinese medicine, is commonly used for treating joint pain and has anti‐inflammatory and analgesic properties. This study aims to explore the effect of the Zushima patch combined with celecoxib on pain and inflammatory factor expression in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients with cold‐dampness obstruction.

Methods

A total of 100 patients with KOA of cold‐dampness obstruction were randomly divided into a treatment group (n = 50) and a control group (n = 50). Patients in the control group received oral administration of celecoxib capsules, whereas the treatment group received the Zushima patch combined with oral administration of celecoxib capsules. Then, the efficacy and safety were compared, together with the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome score, pain, and knee joint function. We also determined the concentrations of osteoprotegerin (OPG), insulin‐like growth factor (IGF‐1), osteocalcin (OC), and inflammatory factors such as interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and C‐reactive protein (CRP). Finally, the safety between the two groups was compared.

Results

The total effective rate in the treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group. After treatment, the levels of the TCM syndrome score, pain score, IL‐1, IL‐6, and CRP in the treatment group showed significant decreases compared with those in the control group, while the scores of OPG, IGF‐1, OC, and knee joint function in the treatment group showed significant increases compared with those in the control group. There was no significant difference in adverse events between the two groups.

Conclusions

The Zushima patch combined with celecoxib could relieve the pain of KOA with cold‐dampness obstruction and improve knee joint function. These effects may be the result of the downregulation of inflammatory factors and the regulation of joint fluid‐related indices.
Collaborative Multi‐User Task Allocation in Social‐Based Crowdsensing Platform
Authors: Lin Kun‐Yu , Hu Chih‐Lin , Mir Mohd Yaseen , Huang Sheng‐Zhi , Chen Yung‐Hui , Hui Lin
Published: November 2024

Mobile crowdsensing (MCS) technologies usher in new distributed services that utilize user‐provided resources to execute tasks in ubiquitous network environments. Conventional studies mainly emphasize user recruitment for simple task allocation with neither information exchange nor collaboration between users. Our study aims to investigate the new issue of collaborative multi‐user (CMU) task allocation, while many users cooperate in complex tasks that require multi‐fold resources from different users. To form a group of collaborative users, we adopt the social‐tie notion to represent three group types, including basic, bridging, and linked user groups, in MCS contexts. By quantifying the strength of social connections between users, we formulate the measures of service capacity and cost with respect to any user group. Then, the fittingness of each group to a task can be calculated, and then a subset of user groups can be chosen to perform CMU tasks. We propose a group‐based task allocation scheme, briefly named GTA, which can evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of task processing by any particular group and thus allocate appropriate groups in accordance with different task requirements. Performance results by simulation manifest that the GTA scheme is promising in sustaining lower service time with only a minor influence on service cost, as compared with two typical schemes, MinCost and GoCC.
Retrospective cohort study of ambulatory care pharmacist interventions’ impact on incidence of therapeutic response in anxiety and depression
Authors: Kiebach Ashlyn M. , McAlpine Tara E. , Cavanaugh Mitchell H. , Benzer Jessica A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Ambulatory care pharmacists continue to expand their involvement in the management of various disease states across the United States, including anxiety and depression. There is limited literature assessing the clinical impact of these practice advances implemented by pharmacists who do not carry psychiatric training (i.e., psychiatric board certification or mental health training) within primary care.

Methods

This was a retrospective, multicenter, cohort study of adult patients who had at least one documented visit between February 2020 and August 2023 with an ambulatory care pharmacist who did not carry additional psychiatric training to comanage their diagnosis of depression and/or anxiety. The primary outcome was the achievement of a therapeutic response (a reduction of 50% or greater in Patient Health Questionnaire 9‐item depression scale [PHQ‐9] and/or the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7‐item scale [GAD‐7] scores). Secondary outcomes included the change in PHQ‐9 and/or GAD‐7 scores, incidence of remission, predictors of therapeutic response, pharmacist intervention subtypes, and percentage use of pharmacogenomics.

Results

Therapeutic response for PHQ‐9 was achieved for 60 (48.4%) of 124 patients included after utilization of an ambulatory care pharmacist without additional psychiatric training embedded in primary care. While two‐thirds of patients had comorbid anxiety, 43 (57.4%) could not be evaluated for clinical improvement as they did not have available GAD‐7 scores for analysis. Available PHQ‐9 and GAD‐7 scores had median score reductions of 5 (−11,0) and 4.5 (−7.75, 3.5), respectively, at approximately 6 months (p < 0.001 and p = 0.023). Patients had a median number of 4 (2, 5) visits with a pharmacist and a median number of 2 (1, 3) interventions.

Conclusions

Ambulatory care pharmacists, regardless of additional psychiatric training, can help patients achieve a therapeutic response for depression and anxiety as well as significantly improve PHQ‐9 and GAD‐7 scores. Additional education on the importance of GAD‐7 monitoring is warranted given its lack of routine collection and evaluation among patients presenting with comorbid depression and anxiety.
Detecting Collagen by Machine Learning Improved Photoacoustic Spectral Analysis for Breast Cancer Diagnostics: Feasibility Studies With Murine Models
Authors: Li Jiayan , Bai Lu , Chen Yingna , Cao Junmei , Zhu Jingtao , Zhi Wenxiang , Cheng Qian
Published: November 2024

Collagen, a key structural component of the extracellular matrix, undergoes significant remodeling during carcinogenesis. However, the important role of collagen levels in breast cancer diagnostics still lacks effective in vivo detection techniques to provide a deeper understanding. This study presents photoacoustic spectral analysis improved by machine learning as a promising non‐invasive diagnostic method, focusing on exploring collagen as a salient biomarker. Murine model experiments revealed more profound associations of collagen with other cancer components than in normal tissues. Moreover, an optimal set of feature wavelengths was identified by a genetic algorithm for enhanced diagnostic performance, among which 75% were from collagen‐dominated absorption wavebands. Using optimal spectra, the diagnostic algorithm achieved 72% accuracy, 66% sensitivity, and 78% specificity, surpassing full‐range spectra by 6%, 4%, and 8%, respectively. The proposed photoacoustic methods examine the feasibility of offering valuable biochemical insights into existing techniques, showing great potential for early‐stage cancer detection.
Circular RNA circ_0004630 promotes malignancy and glycolysis of nonsmall cell lung cancer by sponging microRNA‐1208 and regulating leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 expression
Authors: Zhang Xiangli , Wu Junfang , Miao Yi , Wang Jing , Wang Enguang
Published: November 2024

Emerging evidence has discovered that circular RNAs play important regulators of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but the role and potential molecular mechanism of hsa_circ_100549 (circ_0004630) involved in NSCLC is poorly defined. In this study, circ_0004630, microRNA‐1208 (miR‐1208), and leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) expression were detected using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation, colony formation, apoptosis, and invasion were assessed using 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2‐H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT), 5‐ethynyl‐2’‐deoxyuridine, colony formation, flow cytometry, and transwell assays. Protein levels of glucose transporter 1, Hexokinase 2, and LRRK2 were detected using western blot assay. Glucose consumption, lactate production, and adenosine triphosphate content were assessed using the corresponding kits. After predicting via bioinformatics software Circinteractome and Targetscan, the binding between miR‐1208 and circ_0004630 or LRRK2 was verified by a dual‐luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation, and RNA pull‐down assay. The xenograft tumor model analyzed the biological role circ_000460 on tumor growth in vivo. It was found that circ_0004630 and LRRK2 were increased, and miR‐1208 was low expression in NSCLC tissues and cells. Functionally, the downregulation of circ_0004630 inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation, invasion, glycolysis, and accelerated apoptosis in vitro. In mechanism, circ_0004630 might work as a sponge of miR‐1208 to modulate LRRK2 expression. In addition, DUXAP8 deficiency cured neuroblastoma tumor growth in vivo. In conclusion, circ_0004630 knockdown might suppress NSCLC cell proliferation, metastasis, and glycolysis partly by the miR‐1208/LRRK2 axis. Our findings hinted at an important theoretical basis for further elucidating the pathogenesis of NSCLC and targeted therapy.
Optimizing Outcomes in Heart Transplantation: The Role of High‐Intensity Statin Therapy
Authors: Ghavamikia Nima , Saffarfar Hossein , Seifdavati Babak , Jamali Mohaddeseh , Izadidehkordi Shadi , Pakmehr Seyyed Abbas , Aghabali Mohammadreza , Jahani Negar , Ali‐Khiavi Payam , Soleimanian Abtin , Hijazi Ahmed , Vahedinezhad Milad , Shahhoseini Reza
Published: November 2024

Heart transplantation is a vital procedure for patients with end‐stage heart failure, but it faces significant challenges, including graft dysfunction, rejection, and cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), which can compromise long‐term graft success. Research suggests that statin therapy may offer significant benefits to heart transplant recipients, such as improved long‐term survival and reduced rates of graft rejection and mortality. The aim of this review is to thoroughly examine the recent literature on this topic since 2005. Early use of high‐dose statins appears to be particularly effective in preventing vasculopathy and improving outcomes, although a titrated approach may help to reduce side effects. High‐dose statins may provide superior cardiovascular benefits, including lower rates of CVD, slower progression of CVD and improved long‐term graft survival. Despite potential concerns about adverse effects, evidence suggests that high‐intensity statins improve cholesterol levels without increasing serious adverse events after transplantation. The goal of statin therapy in heart transplant recipients is to balance the well‐established benefits seen in the general population with the specific needs of this group, with the ultimate goal of improving both longevity and quality of life.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis: The Mechanism of Pathogenicity, Immune Responses, and Diagnostic Challenges
Authors: Mohammadnabi Noura , Shamseddin Jebreil , Emadi Mobina , Bodaghi Ali Bayat , Varseh Mahdieh , Shariati Aref , Rezaei Mina , Dastranj Mahsa , Farahani Abbas
Published: November 2024

Background

The infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis arises from a complex interplay between the host immune system and the bacteria. Early and effective treatment of this disease is of great importance in order to prevent the emergence of drug‐resistant strains. This necessitates the availability of fast and reliable diagnostic methods for managing affected cases. One reason why this study is significant is the lack of a comprehensive review in this field that thoroughly examines the importance, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of M. tuberculosis. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide updated information on M. tuberculosis.

Methods

We investigate the virulence factors, pathogenicity, and diagnostic methods of this bacterium, alongside the clinical symptoms and interpretation of different types of tuberculosis, including cerebral, miliary, nerve, and tubercular tuberculosis.

Results

Mycobacterium tuberculosis acts as the causative agent of human tuberculosis and is regarded as one of the most adaptable human pathogens. M. tuberculosis possesses several virulence factors that help the bacterium evade mucous barriers. The rise of multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis (MDR‐TB) in both developing and industrialized countries emphasizes the need for rapid diagnostic methods.

Conclusions

Non‐protein virulence factors play a crucial role in the pathogenicity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis). The bacterial cell membrane contains proteins that modulate the host immune response. For instance, ESAT‐6, either alone or in combination with CFP‐10, reduces immune activity. While molecular techniques—such as DNA microarray, luciferase reporter assay, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA and RNA probes, next‐generation sequencing, and whole‐genome sequencing—offer rapid, sensitive, and specific detection of M. tuberculosis, these methods are expensive and require technical expertise.
Applying Dialectical Behavior Therapy as a Transdiagnostic Treatment in a Case of Borderline Personality Disorder and Eating Disorder
Authors: Navarro‐Haro María Vicenta , Morillo Alba Abanades , García‐Palacios Azucena
Published: November 2024

This article presents a case study of a 31‐year‐old woman with a dual diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS). Paula received a 12‐month Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) outpatient treatment. DBT is considered a transdiagnostic treatment approach to address emotion dysregulation, which shifts the therapy focus traditionally placed only on behavioral change toward including also validation and acceptance and dialectical strategies. DBT addresses eating symptomatology as a dysfunctional form of emotional regulation and has shown promising results regarding its efficacy for the treatment of BPD and EDNOS comorbidity. Given the growing evidence, a standard DBT treatment plan was developed for this case. Specifically, pretreatment and phase 1 of the DBT program are described. During pretreatment and phase 1, individual therapy aims to improve and maintain client's motivation to change and engage in treatment, as well as to establish and prioritize treatment goals. As for group therapy, the main goal of the skills training in DBT is to enhance individual's capability by increasing skillful behavior (mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills). Paula received 24 weekly skills training sessions over a year. The results after a 12‐month standard DBT treatment showed that Paula no longer met criteria for BPD, she had a significant decrease in difficulties in emotional regulation and impulsiveness and in EDNOS symptomatology. This case study may enhance learning about how to apply a transdiagnostic treatment to address BPD and EDNOS together in clinical practice.
Diverticular bleeding in the third part of the duodenum as a cause of overt obscure gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Hamada Yasuhiko , Nakagawa Hayato
Published: November 2024

A 65‐year‐old man with a history of chronic renal failure and ischemic heart disease who was receiving aspirin therapy was admitted for recurrent melena. Initial evaluation revealed severe anemia. Other than a diverticulum in the third part of the duodenum, the findings of upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopies and computed tomography were unremarkable. Capsule endoscopy detected altered blood in the ileum; however, balloon‐assisted enteroscopy found no definitive source of bleeding. Three years later, he presented with recurrent melena and hemorrhagic shock. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy identified Dieulafoy's lesion within the duodenal diverticulum. Hemostasis was achieved using hemoclips. No recurrence of bleeding was observed during 4 years of follow‐up. The findings from this case highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of managing obscure gastrointestinal bleeding due to Dieulafoy's lesion in a diverticulum in the third part of the duodenum. Duodenal diverticular bleeding should be included in the differential diagnoses for patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
BK Polyomavirus DNAemia With a High DNA Load Is Associated With De Novo Donor‐Specific HLA Antibodies in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Moest Wouter T. , de Vries Aiko P. J. , Roelen Dave L. , Kers Jesper , Moes DirkJan A. R. , van der Helm Danny , Mallat Marko J. K. , Meziyerh Soufian , van Rijn Aline L. , Feltkamp Mariet C. W. , Rotmans Joris I.
Published: November 2024

BK polyomavirus‐associated nephropathy (BKPyVAN) is a well‐known complication of kidney transplantation (KTx). The mainstay of prevention is the reduction of immunosuppression upon detection of BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) DNAemia, which precedes BKPyVAN. However, this reduction may inadvertently increase the risk of alloimmunity particularly in patients with a high BKPyV DNA load, where significant immunosuppression reduction is often necessary. This single‐center, retrospective cohort study assesses the risk of de novo donor‐specific antibodies (dnDSA) development and biopsy‐proven acute rejection (BPAR) following high and low BKPyV DNAemia. All patients who underwent KTx at Leiden University Medical Center between 2011 and 2020 were included. Patients were grouped according to high (maximum BKPyV DNA load > 4log10 copies/mL), low (maximum serum BKPyV DNA load ≤ 10E4 copies/mL), and absent BKPyV DNAemia, and analyzed for the development of dnDSA and BPAR, using Cox regression. Of 1076 KTx recipients included, 108 (10%) developed a BKPyV DNAemia with a maximum DNA load below 4log10 copies/mL, whereas 121 (11.2%) developed a BKPyV DNAemia exceeding 4log10 copies/mL. The risk of dnDSA development was higher in patients with a high BKPyV DNAemia, compared to patients without DNAemia (adjusted hazard ratio of 1.9 (95% CI 1.1–3.2, p = 0.017). No significant difference in dnDSA risk was observed between patients with low and absent BKPyV DNAemia. Risk of BPAR did not differ between groups. Our study shows that higher BKPyV DNA loads in KTx patients are associated with a higher risk for dnDSA development, highlighting the importance of exploring additional strategies for the prevention and treatment of BKPyV infections in KTx recipients.
The Risk Assessment of Uveitis After Monkeypox Diagnosis: A Multicenter Population‐Based Study
Authors: Hsu Alan Y. , Kuo Hou‐Ting , Wu Bing‐Qi , Wang Yu‐Hsun , Lin Chun‐Ju , Hsia Ning‐Yi , Lai Chun‐Ting , Chen Huan‐Sheng , Tsai Yi‐Yu , Wei James Cheng‐Chung
Published: November 2024

The risks of uveitis development among monkeypox (MPOX) patients are unclear. To determine the uveitis risks after (MPOX) diagnosis. Population‐based, retrospective cohort study used the TriNetX database and recruited those with and without MPOX diagnosis from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2023. The non‐MPOX cohort consisted of randomly selected control patients matched by covariates, including age, gender, ethnicity, race, relevant comorbidities, previous medications, and the inflammatory marker C‐reactive protein. Statistical analysis on uveitis risk included hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated over 8 years (2016–2023). A separate analysis of the risk of uveitis among MPOX patients aged 20 years and older was also conducted. (MPOX) diagnosis, identified using electronic diagnostic codes. Cumulative incidence of new‐onset uveitis. A total of 5449 MPOX patients of all ages (25.45% female; mean age at index 35.17 ± 15.70 years) and 5449 propensity‐matched non‐MPOX comparators (23.97% female; mean age at index 35.30 ± 15.91 years) were recruited from the TriNetX database. For both the overall MPOX patient population and the adult MPOX patients, the risk of uveitis was significantly higher compared to the non‐MPOX cohort. This increased risk mainly happened in patients with anterior uveitis. Specifically, the hazard ratio for uveitis in all MPOX patients was 2.59 (95% CI: 1.40–4.79). Among MPOX patients aged 20 years or older, the hazard ratio for uveitis was 2.14 (95% CI: 1.17–3.94). There is a notable association between new‐onset uveitis and patients with MPOX. Our real‐world findings underscore the importance of being aware of the potential risk of anterior uveitis in this patient population.
Understanding Risk Factors for Cytomegalovirus Infection in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Insights From a 10‐Year Study Comparing Conditioning Regimens
Authors: Erat Tuğba , Bozkaya İkbal Ok , Mustafaoğlu Özlem , Kanbur Şerife Mehtap , Gülhan Belgin , Kanık‐Yüksek Saliha , Özkaya‐Parlakay Aslınur , Özbek Namık Yaşar
Published: November 2024

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a curative therapy for pediatric patients with malignancies and blood or immune system disorders. However, recipients are at risk of opportunistic infections, including cytomegalovirus infection, due to immunosuppression from conditioning regimens. This retrospective study analyzed 439 pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients to identify risk factors for cytomegalovirus infection and assess the impact of conditioning regimens. Significant factors included graft source, graft versus host disease, and pre‐transplant clinically significant cytomegalovirus infection. Myeloablative conditioning regimens and the use of anti‐thymocyte globulin increased the risk of clinically significant cytomegalovirus infection. Additionally, the risk of cytomegalovirus infection in patients was found to be statistically significant in the myeloablative subgroup analyses who received anti‐thymocyte globulin alone and those who received both anti‐thymocyte globulin and total body irradiation. In our study, total body irradiation did not significantly affect the risk of clinically significant cytomegalovirus infection. This study covers a 10‐year period and a large pediatric patient population from a single center. Our findings highlight the importance of understanding risk factors for clinically significant cytomegalovirus infection to guide preventive strategies in pediatric HSCT recipients.
Future Climate Change in the Northern Bering Sea
Authors: Overland James E. , Wang Muyin
Published: November 2024

The Bering Sea is undergoing major changes from increasing winter temperatures to the north, extreme minimum sea‐ice years in 2018 and 2019, through to an ecosystem reorganisation and negative impacts on communities' economic and subsistence food resources. These events have emerged under a global warming background, with positive feedback processes through a weakened atmospheric Alaskan Arctic Front (AAF) that promotes a self‐reinforcing process of sea‐ice loss, warmer air and sea temperatures, a wavy jet stream, and southerly winds. Interannual variability is still important: during 2021–2024 the Aleutian Low‐pressure system was regionally dominant in supporting a strong AAF, and sea‐ice conditions were observed close to the climatological mean. Before 2017, the AAF, consisting of cold dry air mass to the north and moist relatively warm air mass to the south, was a barrier to northward movement of storms, keeping the northern Bering/Chukchi seas with a cold Arctic climate. That historical situation is ending. Of critical importance is the probable reoccurrence of low Bering Sea sea‐ice years over the next decades and related ecosystem impacts. We propose that radically low sea ice will have a frequency of one to three 2018‐like low sea‐ice events per decade in the coming two decades, based on a historical meteorological analysis and ensemble climate model projections. Arctic temperatures to the north are increasing, weakening their contribution to the AAF. A weakened AAF and low sea‐ice years needs the winter Aleutian low pressure system to be far to the west of its average position, with southerly rather than northeasterly winds, warm years and low sea‐ice extent. From 1948 to 2024 meteorological records, this western location occurred with a range of zero to three times per decade. Communities need to plan for a response to intermittent occurrence of 2018‐like extreme sea‐ice loss and their ecosystem impacts over the coming decades.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Precipitation Concentration and Their Linkage to Temperature Over China
Authors: Lin Zequn , Wang Dagang , Du Yi , Meng Yue
Published: November 2024

Precipitation concentration represents the temporal unevenness of precipitation over a given period. A higher concentration increases the likelihood of concurrent flooding and drought. While previous studies have primarily focused on precipitation concentration at the daily scale, research on sub‐daily scales remains limited. Furthermore, the impact of temperature on precipitation concentration across various temporal scales is not well understood. In this study, we utilise high‐resolution precipitation products and the Gini index (GI) to examine the spatiotemporal characteristics of precipitation concentration across four different time scales (3, 6, 12‐h and 1‐day) over China. The climatological analysis reveals a gradual increase in precipitation concentration from southeast to northwest China. At shorter temporal scales (3 and 6‐h), Southeastern China exhibits a notable increase in precipitation concentration, while longer scales (12‐h and 1‐day) show a significant decrease throughout most regions of Northwest China. These observed spatiotemporal patterns are closely linked to temperature variations. At the 3‐h scale, precipitation concentration at the 3‐h scale increases with temperature at a nation‐averaged rate of 1.06% °C−1 and decreases to 0.30% °C−1 at the 1‐day scale. Higher temperatures intensify precipitation concentration at the 3‐h scale in Southeast China by increasing the frequency of heavy precipitation events. Meanwhile, in Northwest China, the decline in concentration at the daily scale under warmer conditions is attributed to increased annual precipitation amounts driven by higher temperatures. This study is of great significance, as it provides insight into how the temporal distribution of precipitation in China change under future global warming.
Development of a Non‐Covalent Molecularly Imprinted Polymer via Precipitation Method for the Selective Separation of D‐Xylose From Sugarcane Residues
Authors: Borges Luís Fernando Tavares , Wong Ademar , Silva Weida Rodrigues , Sotomayor Maria D. P. T.
Published: November 2024

The agro‐industry generates substantial waste, necessitating eco‐friendly solutions. This study introduces a novel molecularly imprinted polymer (MIPs) for the selective separation of D‐xylose from sugarcane residues. A non‐covalent imprinted polymer was synthesized via precipitation and optimized through D‐xylose adsorption assays. The polymer demonstrated an Imprinting Factor of 3.34, adsorption equilibrium within 30 min, notable reusability retaining over 95% of its adsorption capacity after three cycles, and high selectivity coefficients (α > 2.00) for all saccharides tested. The adsorption isotherm followed the Langmuir model. Characterization confirmed successful imprinting, with the imprinted polymer exhibiting a surface area of 69.4 m2/g and pore volume of 0.26 cm3/g, compared to 8.7 m2/g and 0.03 cm3/g for the non‐imprinted polymer. D‐xylose separation was tested using hemicellulosic hydrolysate from sugarcane straw and bagasse. The polymer applied as a sorbent in dispersive solid‐phase extraction with the hydrolysate achieved 90.29 ± 1.27% D‐xylose adsorption. Desorption in pure water recovered 81.48 ± 1.22% of the adsorbed D‐xylose. This method advances separation techniques, offering an efficient solution for sample pre‐treatment and expanding the application of MIPs.
Comparison of Two Analytical Techniques of Biomass Burning Markers in PM1 and PM2.5 From Zabrze, Southern Poland
Authors: Janoszka Katarzyna , Jaworek Katarzyna , Klyta Justyna
Published: November 2024

With increasing attention to alternative energy sources due to environmental concerns, biomass emerges as a promising solution. However, biomass combustion emits particulate matter and harmful substances, impacting air quality and human health. The study compares gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and high‐performance anion‐exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC‐PAD) methods for biomass combustion marker determination. GC‐MS involves derivatization and subsequent analysis, while HPAEC‐PAD utilizes water extraction, bypassing derivatization. Both methods' analytical performance characteristics were compared, showing HPAEC‐PAD to have slightly lower detection limits and simplified sample preparation. The comparison revealed similar concentrations of levoglucosan and mannosan between the methods. However, galactosan (GA) concentrations showed discrepancies, possibly due to method sensitivity and recovery. HPAEC‐PAD exhibited advantages in GA detection due to its direct analysis and better recovery. The study highlights the suitability of HPAEC‐PAD for biomass combustion marker analysis, especially for GA determination, owing to its simplicity. However, GC‐MS offers advantages in complex matrix identification. The findings provide insights for future research on atmospheric aerosol analysis and comparative studies of analytical techniques for other monosaccharides.
Trail cameras can greatly inflate nest predation rates
Authors: Henden John‐André , Ims Rolf Anker , Strømeng Marita Anti
Published: November 2024

Photographic monitoring currently provides the most accurate means for identifying nest predators and eventually their role in bird population declines worldwide. However, previous studies have found that commercially available trail cameras represent an artificial structure that tend to negatively bias predation rates, likely through predator neophobia. Based on an experiment in Arctic tundra, involving 50 artificial nests and 30 cameras in each of 2 breeding seasons, we demonstrated that trail cameras attracted corvids (in particular ravens [Corvus corax]), which caused an extreme and positively biased predation rate that was consistent over a range of experimental and environmental conditions. We call for new technologies that allow for photographic monitoring of bird nests with minimal visual footprints, in the form of smaller cameras and more efficient internal batteries to minimize novel and conspicuous external features detectable by predators. However, even such improved devices need to be assessed with respect to potential effects on nest predation in each case.
A membrane inlet laser spectrometer for in situ measurement of triple water isotopologues
Authors: Wohleber Axel , Blouzon Camille , Witwicky Julien , Ginot Patrick , Jourdain Nicolas C. , Grilli Roberto
Published: November 2024

We describe a novel compact autonomous in situ sensor for semi‐continuous measurement of water isotopes (δD, δ18O, and δ17O) in liquid water. The sensor relies on a dual‐inlet water vapor injection system based on the pervaporation through a semi‐permeable membrane, and on the water vapor composition analysis using a dedicated optical feedback cavity enhanced absorption spectrometer. The sensor has dimensions of 165 mm diameter and 550 mm long, for a weight of ∼ 8 kg. A titanium casing allows applications down to 6000 m deep for a total effective weight of 45 (23) kg in air (water). It has a power consumption of ∼ 40 W, and an autonomy of 10–12 h which is ensured by a dedicated Li‐ion battery pack. The sensor is equipped with single‐pair high‐speed digital subscriber line communication for telemetry purposes. The instrument provides an accuracy of 0.3‰ (2σ) for all water isotopes with a 9‐min integration time. The instrument is suitable for investigating the freshwater cycle in the ocean, and in particular the transformation of ocean water masses related to iceberg and ice shelf melting.
Neurotensin Conjugated Polymeric Porous Microparticles Suppress Inflammation and Improve Angiogenesis Aiding in Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Narisepalli Saibhargav , Salunkhe Shubham A. , Chitkara Deepak , Mittal Anupama
Published: November 2024

Neurotensin (NT), a bioactive tridecapeptide aids in diabetic wound healing by modulating inflammation and angiogenesis. However, its rapid degradation in peptidase‐rich wound environment (plasma half‐life <2 min) limits its efficacy. To address this, neurotensin‐conjugated polymeric porous microparticles (NT‐PMP) were developed and loaded in gelatin (hydrogel 15% w/v) for topical application, enabling sustained NT release to enhance therapeutic outcomes. NT‐PMP exhibited a size range of 60 – 240 µm (mean: 120.63 ± 40.71 µm) and pore size of 5 – 16 µm (average: 10.68 ± 3.47 µm). In vitro studies demonstrated cytocompatibility of NT‐PMP in fibroblasts and reduced TNF‐α levels in inflammation‐induced macrophages (1256 ± 167.02 pg/ml). Further NT‐PMP scaffold depicted excellent cell adhesion and migration properties upon seeding of dermal fibroblasts on surface of PMPs. In vivo studies in diabetic wound rat model demonstrated effective wound management, characterized by notable regenerative and healing attributes in the presence of NT‐PMP. This included complete re‐epithelialization, reducing pro‐inflammatory cytokine (TNF‐α), and enhancing VEGF expression, ultimately leading to the development of a well‐organized collagen matrix in diabetic wounds upon application of NT‐PMP gel.Altogether, NT conjugated PMP loaded in hydrogel demonstrated significant regenerative and healing properties, suggesting its potential as an alternative treatment for diabetic wounds.
On non‐Hopf Ricci‐pseudosymmetric hypersurfaces in CP2$\mathbb {C}P^{2}$ and CH2$\mathbb {C}H^{2}$
Authors: Cui Qianshun , Hu Zejun
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we study an open problem raised by Cecil and Ryan [Geometry of Hypersurfaces, Springer Monographs in Mathematics, p. 531] which asked whether there exist non‐Hopf Ricci‐pseudosymmetric hypersurfaces in and . As our main results, we first prove the nonexistence of non‐Hopf Ricci‐pseudosymmetric hypersurfaces of the constant type in . Then, we prove the existence of non‐Hopf Ricci‐pseudosymmetric hypersurfaces of the constant type in . Finally, applying the preceding results and sharpening Theorem 4.1 of Wang and Zhang [J. Geom. Phys. 181 (2022), 104648], we prove the nonexistence of non‐Hopf weakly Einstein hypersurfaces with constant norm of Riemannian curvature tensor in both and .
Embedded trace operator for infinite metric trees
Authors: Franceschi Valentina , Naderi Kiyan , Pankrashkin Konstantin
Published: November 2024

We consider a class of infinite weighted metric trees obtained as perturbations of self‐similar regular trees. Possible definitions of the boundary traces of functions in the Sobolev space on such a structure are discussed by using identifications of the tree boundary with a surface. Our approach unifies some constructions proposed by Maury, Salort, and Vannier for discrete weighted dyadic trees (expansion in orthogonal bases of harmonic functions on the graph and using Haar‐type bases on the domain representing the boundary), and by Nicaise and Semin and Joly, Kachanovska, and Semin for fractal metric trees (approximation by finite sections and identification of the boundary with a interval): We show that both machineries give the same trace map, and for a range of parameters we establish the precise Sobolev regularity of the traces. In addition, we introduce new geometric ingredients by proposing an identification with arbitrary Riemannian manifolds. It is shown that any compact manifold admits a suitable multiscale decomposition and, therefore, can be identified with a metric tree boundary in the context of trace theorems.
Laplacian with singular drift in a critical borderline case
Authors: Kinzebulatov D.
Published: November 2024

We establish well‐posedness and regularity results for parabolic diffusion equation on the torus in the case when the singularities of a general drift reach the critical magnitude. The latter dictates the need to work in an Orlicz space situated between all and .
Abstract integro‐differential equations with state‐dependent integration intervals: Existence, uniqueness, and local well‐posedness
Authors: Hernandez Eduardo , Pandey Shashank , Pandey Dwijendra N.
Published: November 2024

In this work, we study a new class of integro‐differential equations with delay, where the informations from the past are represented as an average of the state over state‐dependent integration intervals. We establish results on the local and global existence and qualitative properties of solutions. The models presented and the ideas developed will allow the generalization of an extensive literature on different classes of functional differential equations. The last section presents some examples motivated by integro‐differential equations arising in the theory of population dynamics.
Construction of the log‐convex minorant of a sequence {Mα}α∈N0d$\lbrace M_\alpha \rbrace _{\alpha \in \mathbb {N}_0^d}$
Authors: Boiti Chiara , Jornet David , Oliaro Alessandro , Schindl Gerhard
Published: November 2024

We give a simple construction of the log‐convex minorant of a sequence and consequently extend to the ‐dimensional case the well‐known formula that relates a log‐convex sequence to its associated function , that is, . We show that in the more dimensional anisotropic case the classical log‐convex condition is not sufficient: convexity as a function of more variables is needed (not only coordinate‐wise). We finally obtain some applications to the inclusion of spaces of rapidly decreasing ultradifferentiable functions in the matrix weighted setting.
Numerische Untersuchungen zum Einfluss des Nennlochspiels auf die Plattennachgiebigkeit von hochfest vorgespannten Schraubenverbindungen
Authors: Dörre M. , Glienke R. , Kalkowsky F. , Wegener F. , Flügge W.
Published: November 2024

Geschraubte Verbindungen stellen insbesondere für Mischbauweisen, endbeschichtete Halbzeuge, aber auch für wartungsgerechte Konstruktionen ein hocheffizientes Fügeverfahren dar, welches die konstruktive Gestaltung maßgeblich beeinflusst. Für die Bemessung solcher Verbindungen in den Bereichen des Maschinen‐ und Anlagenbaus bildet die VDI 2230–1 die Berechnungsbasis. Um Problemen der Form‐ und Lagetoleranzen in der Montage von Bauteilen und Baugruppen zu begegnen und so den reibungslosen Fertigungsablauf zu ermöglichen, werden Durchgangslöcher in den Bauteilen oftmals als übergroße Rund‐ oder Langlöcher ausgeführt. Das erhöhte Nennlochspiel findet in den Rechenschritten R0 bis R13 zur Berechnung hochbeanspruchter zylindrischer Einschraubenverbindungen nach der VDI Richtline 2230–1 jedoch keine Berücksichtigung, was zu einer Überdimensionierung oder Hilfskonstruktionen führt. Oftmals lässt sich die Nachweisführung in der Praxis nur durch kostenintensive Einzelfalluntersuchungen auf Basis von Versuchen stützen. Die in diesem Beitrag gezeigten Untersuchungen zur Bestimmung der Druckverteilung in der Trennfuge, der Schraubennachgiebigkeit sowie des Einflusses der Lochgeometrie auf die Plattennachgiebigkeit haben die Bereitstellung einer grundlegenden Datenbasis für die Erarbeitung eines analytischen Berechnungsmodells nach VDI 2230–1 für Schraubenverbindungen mit erhöhtem Nennlochspiel zum Ziel.
Dynamic constitutive modelling and mullins effect of elastic‐porous metal rubber
Authors: Zheng C. , Chen Y. , Liu J. , Xue X. , Zhang M.
Published: November 2024

Elastic‐porous metal rubber, commonly employed in dynamic environments, has received special attention nowadays. Utilization of equivalent metal rubber models in the finite element analysis becomes imperative because of the complexity of the spatial network structure and the extensive numerical calculations involved in it. In this work, the nonlinear characteristics of metal rubber are represented by hyperelastic constitutive models, and the Mullins effect is discussed. The relative deviations of the displacement‐load curve among the test results and three dynamic models are analyzed: the hysteretic Bergström–Boyce model, the viscoelastic generalized Maxwell model, and the nonlinear spring‐viscous damping element model. The results indicate that the damage value of the Mullins effect is positively correlated with the magnitude of the strain during unloading, and the performance degradation of metal rubber is weakened after multiple cycles. The time domain characteristics of the generalized Maxwell model demonstrate that the dynamic analysis of metal rubber at different frequencies have obvious deviations. The rate correlation of metal rubber affects the dynamic stiffness under different amplitudes This is reason that the nonlinear spring‐viscous damping element model is deviated. Regardless of the frequency or amplitude, the Bergström–Boyce model has been found to exhibit a lower relative deviation and match well with the dynamic experiment.
Broadband Filtering Antenna With Asymmetric Feeding Structure
Authors: Xu Juan , Lv Xiaoning , Gao Xiao
Published: November 2024

A compact highly selective broadband filter antenna with an asymmetric feed structure is proposed. The radiating patch of the antenna unit consists of a central elliptical patch and a pair of semi‐annular patches, and the antenna forms multiple coupling paths from the feed ports to the radiating patches to generate a radiation null (6.28 GHz), which achieves the roll‐off rate of 193 dB/GHz. The innovation of this design is that asymmetric L‐shaped branches of about half a wavelength are added on both sides of the microstrip feedline of the antenna to expand the operating bandwidth and generate a low‐frequency radiation null (4.66 GHz), which achieves the roll‐off rates of 164 dB/GHz. The simulated results show that impedance bandwidth is 23.8% (4.77–6.06 GHz) with the peak gain of 5.86 dBi, which size is 0.5λ0 × 0.5λ0 × 0.09λ0. Then, a 2 × 2 filtered antenna array is designed for experimental validation. The test results indicate that the impedance bandwidth of the antenna array is 21.5% (4.45–5.52 GHz), the in‐band gain is greater than 10 dBi and flat, and the out‐of‐band rejection level is greater than 20 dB. Attributed to the characteristics of easy and inexpensive manufacturing, the designed antenna has well application prospects in modern wireless communication systems.
Reliability of MScanFit Motor Unit Number Estimation in the Trapezius Muscle
Authors: Sørensen Daniel Mosgaard , Tankisi Hatice
Published: November 2024

Introduction/Aims

MScanFit motor unit number estimation (MUNE) is the most recent MUNE method which has shown promising results in extremity muscles, but it has not been applied to bulbar muscles. Bulbar muscles are particularly important in the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and reliability of MScanFit MUNE in the accessory nerve and trapezius muscles.

Methods

A total of twenty healthy participants were examined twice within 1–2 weeks. We extracted the MScanFit MUNE and size parameter, and compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude values. The reliability of these parameters was assessed using the intra‐rater coefficient of variation (CoV), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and Bland–Altman plots. We also correlated MUNE values with CMAP amplitudes using correlation coefficients.

Results

Mean MUNE values (Day 1 = 132.1 and Day 2 = 137.4), CMAP amplitudes (Day 1 = 9.71 mV and Day 2 = 10.10 mV) and size parameters did not differ between the two sessions (p > 0.05). CoV showed excellent reliability for MUNE values, size parameters, and CMAP amplitudes (CoV < 7%) whereas ICCs showed moderate reliability for MUNE values (ICC = 0.619), poor to moderate reliability for size parameters (between 0.393 and 0.689), and good reliability for CMAP amplitude (ICC = 0.864) There was no correlation between MUNE values and CMAP amplitudes.

Discussion

MScanFit MUNE is applicable and mostly reliable in the trapezius muscle. Further studies in patients are needed to investigate the sensitivity of MScanFit in this muscle in detecting motor unit loss, particularly in ALS.
Associations between malnutrition and dehydration among older adults: A cross‐sectional observational study
Authors: Heybeli Cihan , Uzun Ozcan , Smith Lee , Veronese Nicola , Rahmati Masoud , Hajek André , Soysal Pinar
Published: November 2024

Background

There is debate as to the association between dehydration and malnutrition. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the correlation between dehydration and malnutrition and their impact on geriatric syndromes.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included older adults (≥60 years) who attended one outpatient geriatric clinic. Malnutrition was defined according to the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) score (<17), and dehydration was based on a single calculation method (plasma osmolarity [Posm] > 295 mmol/L).

Results

Among the 1409 patients studied, the prevalence of malnutrition and dehydration was 19% and 33%, respectively. The rate of malnutrition in the setting of dehydration was 18%, and the rate of dehydration in patients with malnutrition was 30% (P > 0.05). Polypharmacy, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and higher body mass index (BMI) were associated solely with dehydration, whereas older age, a lower level of education, depression, and lower BMI were associated solely with malnutrition. Among patients with dehydration, there was a significant negative correlation between the MNA and Posm (P < 0.001, r = −0.20). Inversely, among patients without dehydration, the correlation was positive and significant (P < 0.001, r = 0.14).

Conclusion

A negative correlation was found between the MNA score and Posm in patients with dehydration, whereas the correlation is positive among patients without dehydration. This inverse relationship between the MNA score and Posm in patients with different levels of hydration is one potential reason for the lack of a significant correlation between malnutrition and dehydration in previously reported studies. Different risk factors of malnutrition may predominate in settings of dehydration vs no dehydration.