bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and risk of psychological distress, anxiety and depression in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Osmani Vanesa , Hörner Lucy , Klug Stefanie J. , Tanaka Luana Fiengo
Published: August 2023

Background

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors (CS) face unique psychosocial challenges, which may affect their mental health. However, there are inconsistencies in AYA definitions and varying prevalence data on psychological distress, anxiety, and depression. We aimed to synthesize published literature on prevalence, risk, longitudinal changes, and predictors for these outcomes and estimate pooled prevalences.

Methods

We searched for observational studies published in English before June 1 2022, in PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. Two researchers extracted independently information on study characteristics, prevalence, and risk. The pooled prevalence (PP) of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression was estimated using random‐effects models. Geographical region, treatment status, and assessment instruments were considered in stratified meta‐analyses.

Results

Sixty‐eight studies were included in the systematic review and 57 in the meta‐analyses. We estimated an overall prevalence of 32% (n = 30; 4226/15,213 AYAs; 95% CI, 23%–42%; I2 = 99%) for psychological distress, 29% for anxiety (n = 24; 2828/8751 AYAs; 95% CI, 23%–36%; I2 = 98%), and 24% (n = 35; 3428/16,638 AYAs; 95% CI, 18%–31%; I2 = 98%) for depression. The range of PP of psychological distress varied across geographical regions, treatment status, and assessment instruments. The PP of anxiety varied significantly across continents, while no variations were seen for depression. Studies found higher risks for psychological distress, anxiety, and depression in AYAs compared to older cancer survivors or cancer‐free peers.

Conclusions

Our research found that one in three AYA‐CS experience psychological distress or anxiety and one in four are affected by depression, highlighting the need for specialized psychological services for AYA‐CS in oncology settings and AYA‐focused interventions.
Nutritional Composition Profiles and Quality Evaluation of Different Cultivars of Asparagus Officinalis with Potential as Functional Foods and Health‐Care Products
Authors: Liu Wei , Sun Mengyu , Yin Dongxue , Zhang Guofeng , Wang Zhihao , Cui Xiaoqiang
Published: August 2023

Asparagus officinalis is a health‐care vegetable with homology value of medicine and food. The quality of A. officinalis is greatly different from various cultivars. It is essential to reveal the relationship between the variety and quality. This study investigated six nutritional compositions in ten A. officinalis cultivars, including amino acid, mineral substance, carbohydrate, vitamin C, protein and total sugar. Five chemometrics methods were further employed to evaluate their quality. The results consistently showed that ten varieties were divided into three grades as nutritional composition differences. HuaMiaoF1, JinGuan and FeiCuiMingZhu were grouped into cluster3 with the best quality, and Atlas and Jersey Giant were grouped into cluster1 with the lowest quality. Therefore, HuaMiaoF1, JinGuan and FeiCuiMingZhu can be suggested as good raw materials for medicine, food and health‐care products industries. Meanwhile, the comprehensive application of five chemometrics methods was confirmed as a reliable methodology for quality evaluation of A. officinalis.
Structurally Diverse Sesquiterpenoids from the Genus of Ainsliaea
Authors: Zhuang Yi‐Xin , Wang Shu‐Xuan , Luo Shan‐Rong , Ma Lie‐Feng , Zhan Zha‐Jun
Published: August 2023

The genus of Ainsliaea embraces approximately 70 recognized species, many of which have been used to treat various diseases in folklore medicines. As the main metabolites of Ainsliaea plants, Ainsliaea sesquiterpenoids have drawn considerable attention in related scientific communities due to their intriguing structures and a variety of bioactivities. In this review, we intend to provide a full‐aspect coverage of sesquiterpenoids reported from the genus of Ainsliaea, including 145 monomeric sesquiterpenoids and 30 oligomeric ones. Multiple aspects will be summarized, including their classification, distributions, structures, bioactivities, and biomimetic syntheses. In addition, their possible biosynthetic pathway will be discussed in detail.
The association of major adverse limb events and combination stent and atherectomy in patients undergoing revascularization for lower extremity peripheral artery disease
Authors: Gressler Laura E. , Ramkumar Niveditta , Marinac‐Dabic Danica , dosReis Susan , Goodney Philip , Daniel Mullins C. , Shaya Fadia T.
Published: August 2023

Background

The effectiveness of combined atherectomy and stenting relative to use of each procedure alone for the treatment of lower extremity peripheral artery disease has not been evaluated.

Aims

The objective of this study was to evaluate the short‐ and long‐term major adverse limb event (MALE) following the receipt of stenting, atherectomy, and the combination of stent and atherectomy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of patients undergoing atherectomy, stent, and combination stent atherectomy for lower extremity peripheral artery disease was derived from the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) data set. The primary outcome was MALE and was assessed in the short‐term and long‐term. Short‐term MALE was assessed immediately following the procedure to discharge and estimated using logistic regression. Long‐term MALE was assessed after discharge to end of follow‐up and estimated using the Fine‐Gray subdistribution hazard model.

Results

Among the 46,108 included patients, 6896 (14.95%) underwent atherectomy alone, 35,774 (77.59%) received a stent, and 3438 (7.5%) underwent a combination of stenting and atherectomy. The adjusted model indicated a significantly higher odds of short‐term MALE in the atherectomy group (OR = 1.35; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.16–1.57), and not significantly different odds (OR = 0.93; 95% CI:0.77–1.13) in the combination stent and atherectomy group when compared to stenting alone. With regard to long‐term MALE, the model indicated that the likelihood of experiencing the outcome was slightly lower (HR = 0.90; 95% CI:0.82–0.98) in the atherectomy group, and not significantly different (HR = 0.92; 95% CI:0.82–1.04) in the combination stent and atherectomy group when compared to the stent group.

Conclusions

Patients in the VQI data set who received combination stenting and atherectomy did not experience significantly different rates of MALE when compared with stenting alone. It is crucial to consider and further evaluate the influence of anatomical characteristics on treatment strategies and potential differential effects of comorbidities and other demographic factors on the short and long‐term MALE risks.
Unlocking New Prenylation Modes: Azaindoles as a New Substrate Class for Indole Prenyltransferases
Authors: Gardner Eric D. , Johnson Bryce P. , Dimas Dustin A. , McClurg Heather E. , Severance Zachary C. , Burgett Anthony W. , Singh Shanteri
Published: August 2023

Aza‐substitution, the replacement of aromatic CH groups with nitrogen atoms, is an established medicinal chemistry strategy for increasing solubility, but current methods of accessing functionalized azaindoles are limited. In this work, indole‐alkylating aromatic prenyltransferases (PTs) were explored as a strategy to directly functionalize azaindole‐substituted analogs of natural products. For this, a series of aza‐L‐tryptophans (Aza‐Trp) featuring N‐substitution of every aromatic CH position of the indole ring and their corresponding cyclic Aza‐L‐Trp‐L‐proline dipeptides (Aza‐CyWP), were synthesized as substrate mimetics for the indole‐alkylating PTs FgaPT2, CdpNPT, and FtmPT1. We then demonstrated most of these substrate analogs were accepted by a PT, and the regioselectivity of each prenylation was heavily influenced by the position of the N‐substitution. Remarkably, FgaPT2 was found to produce cationic N‐prenylpyridinium products, representing not only a new substrate class for indole PTs but also a previously unobserved prenylation mode. The discovery that nitrogenous indole bioisosteres can be accepted by PTs thus provides access to previously unavailable chemical space in the search for bioactive indolediketopiperazine analogs.
Flocculating oil sands tailings with dual anionic/cationic polymers: Dose and charge density effects
Authors: Dixon Daniel V. , Soares João B. P.
Published: August 2023

A two‐step process, with anionic hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) and cationic poly(vinylbenzyl trimethylammonium chloride) (PVBTMAC), was used to flocculate oil sands mature fine tailings (MFT). The charge density of HPAM and the dosages of HPAM and PVBTMAC were varied to maximize the dewatering of MFT and minimize the turbidity of the supernatant. The dual flocculant system performed better at lower doses than when used alone. The best HPAM charge density for fast initial settling rate and high sediment solids content was 32%, but it increased to 38% for best sediment dewatering, as measured by capillary suction time. The clearest supernatants were found when the zeta potential approached 0 mV because the cationic PVBTMAC neutralized the surface charges of the particles suspended in the MFT. More importantly, undiluted MFT was flocculated with the HPAM/PVBTMAC system and then filtered at low‐pressure (69 kPag), resulting in a filter cake with a high solids content of 61 wt.%. This study shows that treating MFT with a combination of anionic and cationic polymer is a flexible way to optimize flocculation performance.
Selective Conversion of Propane by Electrothermal Catalysis in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Yang Cong‐Hua , Liu Xiao‐Chen , Li Youcong , Yuan Shuai , Wang Tao , Zhou Zhi‐You , Sun Shi‐Gang
Published: August 2023

Electrochemical conversion of alkanes to high value‐added oxygenated products under a mild condition is of significance. Herein, we effectively couple the electrocatalysis of H2O2 with the thermo‐catalysis of propane oxidation in the cathode of proton exchange membrane fuel cell. Specifically, H2O2 is in‐situ generated on the nitric acid‐treated carbon black (C‐acid) via 2e− process of oxygen reduction reaction, and then transports to the Fe active sites of MIL‐53 (Al, Fe) metal–organic frameworks for propane oxidation. Based on this strategy, the space‐time yield of C3 oxygenated products of propane oxidation reaches 2.65 μmol h−1 cm−2, which represents a new benchmark for electrochemical alkane oxidation in the fuel‐cell‐type electrolyzer. This study highlights the importance of multifunctional composite catalysts in the field of electrosynthesis.
AF9 sustains glycolysis in colorectal cancer via H3K9ac‐mediated PCK2 and FBP1 transcription
Authors: He Xuefeng , Zhong Xinyang , Fang Yi , Hu Zijuan , Chen Zhiyu , Wang Yaxian , Huang Huixia , Zhao Senlin , Li Dawei , Wei Ping
Published: August 2023

Background

The tumourigenesis of various cancers is influenced by epigenetic deregulation. Among 591 epigenetic regulator factors (ERFs) examined, AF9 showed significant inhibition of malignancy in colorectal cancer (CRC) based on our wound healing assays. However, the precise role of AF9 in CRC remains to be explored.

Methods

To investigate the function of AF9 in CRC, we utilised small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to knock down the expression of 591 ERFs. Subsequently, we performed wound healing assays to evaluate cell proliferation and migration. In vitro and in vivo assays were conducted to elucidate the potential impact of AF9 in CRC. Clinical samples were analysed to assess the association between AF9 expression and CRC prognosis. Additionally, an Azoxymethane‐Dextran Sodium Sulfate (AOM/DSS) induced CRC AF9IEC‐/‐ mouse model was employed to confirm the role of AF9 in CRC. To identify the target gene of AF9, RNA‐seq and coimmunoprecipitation analyses were performed. Furthermore, bioinformatics prediction was applied to identify potential miRNAs that target AF9.

Results

Among the 591 ERFs examined, AF9 exhibited downregulation in CRC and showed a positive correlation with prolonged survival in CRC patients. In vitro and in vivo assays proved that depletion of AF9 could promote cell proliferation, migration as well as glycolysis. Specifically, knockout of MLLT3 (AF9) in intestinal epithelial cells significantly increased tumour formation induced by AOM/DSS. We also identified miR‐145 could target 3′untranslated region of AF9 to suppress AF9 expression. Loss of AF9 led to decreased expression of gluconeogenic genes, including phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 2 (PCK2) and fructose 1,6‐bisphosphatase 1 (FBP1), subsequently promoting glucose consumption and tumourigenesis.

Conclusions

AF9 is essential for the upregulation of PCK2 and FBP1, and the disruption of the miR‐145/AF9 axis may serve as a potential target for the development of CRC therapeutics.
Emotional food‐cue‐reactivity in anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa: An electroencephalography study
Authors: Eichin Katharina Naomi , Georgii Claudio , Schnepper Rebekka , Voderholzer Ulrich , Blechert Jens
Published: August 2023

Objective

Food‐cue‐reactivity entails neural and experiential responses to the sight and smell of attractive foods. Negative emotions can modulate such cue‐reactivity and this might be central to the balance between restrictive versus bulimic symptomatology in Anorexia Nervosa (AN) and Bulimia Nervosa (BN).

Method

Pleasantness ratings and electrocortical responses to food images were measured in patients with AN (n = 35), BN (n = 32) and matched healthy controls (HC, n = 35) in a neutral state and after idiosyncratic negative emotion induction while electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded. The EEG data were analyzed using a mass testing approach.

Results

Individuals with AN showed reduced pleasantness for foods compared to objects alongside elevated widespread occipito‐central food‐object discrimination between 170 and 535 ms, indicative of strong neural cue‐reactivity. Food‐object discrimination was further increased in the negative emotional condition between 690 and 1200 ms over centroparietal regions. Neither of these effects was seen in individuals with BN.

Discussion

Emotion modulated food‐cue‐reactivity in AN might reflect a decreased appetitive response in negative mood. Such specific (emotion‐)regulatory strategies require more theoretical work and clinical attention. The absence of any marked effects in BN suggests that emotional cue‐reactivity might be less prominent in this group or quite specific to certain emotional contexts or food types.

Public Significance

Negative affectivity is a risk factor for the development of eating disorders and individuals with eating disorders experience problems with emotion regulation. To better understand the effects of negative emotions, the present study investigated how they affected neural correlates of food perception in anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
Current status of outpatient heart failure management in Egypt and recommendations for the future
Authors: Hassanein Mahmoud , Tageldien Ahmed , Badran Haitham , Samir Hany , Elshafey Wassam Eldin , Hassan Mohamed , Magdy Moheb , Louis Osama , Abdel‐Hameed Tarek , Abdelhamid Magdy
Published: August 2023

Heart failure (HF) represents one of the greatest healthcare burdens worldwide, and Egypt is no exception. HF healthcare programmes in Egypt still require further optimization to enhance diagnosis and management of the disease. Development of specialized HF clinics (HFCs) and their incorporation in the healthcare system is expected to reduce HF hospitalization and mortality rates and improve quality of care in Egypt. We conducted a literature search on PubMed on the requirements and essential infrastructure of HFCs. Retrieved articles deemed relevant were discussed by a panel of 10 expert cardiologists from Egypt and a basic HFC model for the Egyptian settings was proposed. A multidisciplinary team managing the HFC should essentially be composed of specialized HF cardiologists and nurses, clinical pharmacists, registered nutritionists, physiotherapists, and psychologists. Other clinical specialists should be included according to patients' needs and size and structure of individual clinics. HFCs should receive patients referred from primary care settings, emergency care units, and physicians from different specialties. A basic HFC should have the following fundamental investigations available: resting electrocardiogram, basic transthoracic echocardiogram, and testing for N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide. Fundamental patients' functional assessments are assessing the New York Heart Association functional classification and quality of life and conducting the 6 min walking test. guideline‐directed medical therapy should be implemented, and device therapy should be utilized when available. In the first visit, once HF is diagnosed and co‐morbidities assessed, guideline‐directed medical therapy should be started immediately. Comprehensive patient education sessions should be delivered by HF nurses or clinical pharmacists. The follow‐up visit should be scheduled during the initial visit rather than over the phone, and time from the initial visit to the first follow‐up visit should be determined based on the patient's health status and needs. Home and virtual visits are only recommended in limited and emergency situations. In this paper, we provide a practical and detailed review on the essential components of HFCs and propose a preliminary model of HFCs as part of a comprehensive HF programme model in Egypt. We believe that other low‐to‐middle income countries could also benefit from our proposed model.
Erythropoietic response after intravenous iron in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction with and without background treatment with sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors
Authors: Marques Pedro , Matias Paula , Packer Milton , Vieira Joana T. , Vasques‐Nóvoa Francisco , Sharma Abhinav , Mavrakanas Thomas A. , Friões Fernando , Ferreira João Pedro
Published: August 2023

Aims

Intravenous (IV) iron increases haemoglobin/haematocrit and improves outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and iron deficiency. Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) also increase haemoglobin/haematocrit and improve outcomes in heart failure by mechanisms linked to nutrient deprivation signalling and reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress. The effect of IV iron among patients using SGLT2i has not yet been studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in haemoglobin, haematocrit, and iron biomarkers in HFrEF patients treated with IV iron with and without background SGLT2i treatment. Secondary outcomes included changes in natriuretic peptides, kidney function and heart failure‐associated outcomes.

Methods and results

Retrospective, single‐centre analysis of HFrEF patients with iron deficiency treated with IV iron using (n = 60) and not using (n = 60) SGLT2i, matched for age and sex. Mean age was 73 ± 12 years, 48% were men, with more than 65% of patients having chronic kidney disease and anaemia. After adjustment for all baseline differences, SGLT2i users experienced a greater increase in haemoglobin and haematocrit compared to SGLT2i non‐users: haemoglobin +0.57 g/dl (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.04–1.10, p = 0.036) and haematocrit +1.64% (95% CI 0.18–3.11, p = 0.029). No significant differences were noted for iron biomarkers or any of the secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

Combined treatment with IV iron and background SGLT2i was associated with a greater increase in haemoglobin and haematocrit than IV iron without background SGLT2i. These results suggest that in HFrEF patients treated with IV iron, SGLT2i may increase the erythropoietic response. Further studies are needed to ascertain the potential benefit or harm of combining these two treatments in heart failure patients.
Plus‐Size DiPAMP Hybrids for Advanced Rhodium(I)‐Catalyzed Hydrogenation: The 2RBigFUS Model
Authors: Mohar Barbara , Jeran Marko , Stephan Michel
Published: August 2023

Outfitting the P,P′‐distereogenic 2MeBigFUS ligand with the characteristic branched/functionalized‐alkoxy feature of the R‐SMS‐Phos design furnished the 2RBigFUS family (Figure 2). Rhodium(I) complexes thereof exhibited a further boosted activity and superior enantioselectivity in the hydrogenation of various functionalized olefins, including the challenging α‐arylacrylic acids. The application under practical conditions to enantiomeric active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and relevant synthetic building blocks capped the outcome.
Molybdenum‐Incorporated O3‐type Sodium Layered Oxide Cathodes for High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Moossa Buzaina , Abraham Jeffin James , Gayara Ranasinghe Arachchige Harindi , Ahmed Abdul Moiz , Shahzad Rana Faisal , Kahraman Ramazan , Al-Qaradawi Siham , Rasul Shahid , Shakoor Rana Abdul
Published: August 2023

Transition metal layered oxide materials with a general formula NaxMO2 (M = Ni, Mn, Co, Fe) are widely researched with various possible electrode configurations. Herein, O3‐type NaNi(1−x)/2Mn(1−x)/2MoxO2 (x = 0, 0.05,0.1) layered oxide cathode materials are synthesized by solid‐state reaction method, and its structural, thermal, and electrochemical performance in sodium ion battery is investigated. The structural analysis reveals that a single phase highly crystalline O3‐type cathode material with an irregular particle shape is formed. The introduction of molybdenum improves the thermal stability of cathode materials, which can be attributed to the improved TMO2 layers that provide stability to the material. The addition of Mo to Na‐layered oxide cathode materials enhances electrochemical performance. The developed cathode materials, the NaNi0.475Mn0.475Mo0.05O2, exhibit excellent specific discharge capacity (≈154 mAh g−1) at C/20 rate, (an increase of ≈20% when compared to the NaNi0.5Mn0.5O2) which can be attributed to the increased capacitance effect by the addition of Mo. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy study reveals that the diffusion of Na+ into/from the host structure is rapid during the first cycle and then gradually reduces with subsequent cycling due to the formation of the solid electrolyte interface layer, which hinders Na+ migration. This has a potential effect on the improved electrochemical performance of the material.
Advances and Perspectives on Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: From Nanotechnology to Power Electronics Devices
Authors: Arshad Muhammad Sarfraz , Yangkou Mbianda Xavier , Ali Imran , Wanbing Guan , Kamal Tariq , Kauhaniemi Kimmo , Hassan Syed Zulqadar , Yasin Ghulam
Published: August 2023

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) hold an important place in energy conversion and storage systems due to their fuel flexibility, high efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The scorching temperature (≥800 °C) to operate SOFCs results in shorter life span due to rapid deterioration of accompanying components. Nanomaterials have attained considerable attention in recent years due to their great technological importance in fuel cell technology. Nanoengineering of the architectures of known materials and adopting composite approach can effectively enhance the active sites for electrode reactions. The use of nanotechnology will make SOFCs environment friendly and sustainable through green manufacturing processes of nanotechnology. Overviews of the contributions of nanotechnology and power electronics technologies to SOFCs, the transition of SOFCs from macro‐ to nanotechnology, the significance of nanomaterials in SOFCs, dynamic modeling, the function of optimization techniques, and the requirement for power electronics converters in SOFCs are all provided in this piece of work. The applications of SOFCs in different sectors, prominent institutes/labs and companies involved in SOFCs’ research, future challenges, and perspectives are also highlighted.
Enhancement in CO Selectivity by Modification of ZnO with CuxO for Electrochemical Reduction of CO2
Authors: Yusufoğlu Muhammed , Tafazoli Saeede , Balkan Timuçin , Kaya Sarp
Published: August 2023

The electrochemical reduction reaction of carbon dioxide (CO2RR) has garnered significant attention due to its potential for the formation of carbon monoxide, which has industrial relevance. Herein, an oxide‐derived Cu–Zn electrocatalyst with an optimized Cu
x
O layer that shows high selectivity toward CO with a faradic efficiency of 75% at a low overpotential (−0.8 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode) is reported. Various structural characterizations and activity tests are conducted to understand the origin of this improvement depending on the Cu
x
O amount. Electrochemical surface area and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements suggest that the addition of Cu
x
O increases double‐layer capacitance and decreases charge transfer resistance. Scanning electron microscopy images indicate that the electrodes undergo a severe reconstruction process, which is further confirmed by X‐ray diffraction that shows the formation of CuZn4 alloy during the reduction reaction. Furthermore, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth profile analysis shows that after CO2RR at −0.8 V, the Cu/Zn ratio is higher than that after −1.2 V, which suggests that applied potential plays a significant role in the reconstruction process and hence the difference in selectivity. The presence of copper in the surface layer has a significant impact on the improvement of selectivity toward CO.
Synthesis and pyrolysis of ethyl maltol ester
Authors: Dong Aijun , Yu Zhaojin , Pan Tingting , Rong Lin , Lai Miao , Cheng Biao , Ji Xiaoming , Yang Xiaopeng , Wang Bo
Published: August 2023

Ethyl maltol is one of the most important aromatic components in food and cigarettes because of its caramel flavour. However, the development of ethyl maltol is limited by problems such as heavy smell, low threshold, strong volatility and poor stability. In order to develop a new class of high‐temperature resistance and caramel flavours for cigarettes, eight new ethyl maltol flavours were synthesized using the reaction of ethyl maltol with a carboxylic acid. The target compounds were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR,13C NMR), infrared spectroscopy (IR) and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). By gas chromatography–mass spectrometry‐olfactometer (GC–MS‐O), the aroma characteristics of esters were evaluated. Four compounds with strong aroma were conducted with thermogravimetry (TG), derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) and pyrolysis‐gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py–GC/MS) to analyse their heating stability. TG–DTG results showed that the degradation temperature of ethyl maltol esters was significantly higher than that of ethyl maltol, which could effectively slow down the volatilization of ethyl maltol. Py‐GC/MS results showed that a large amount of ethyl maltol and many esters with aroma were formed during thermal degradation of the four compounds at 300°C, 350°C and 400°C. The above results show that the esterification of ethyl maltol was a good strategy to slow release flavours, and ethyl maltol ester latent aroma compounds have significant applications in high‐temperature processed food and tobacco. This work may provide a new method to improve the stability of spices and expand their multifunctional application.
Einaxiale und triaxiale Druckversuche an gefrorenen Sanden und Tonen – Einfluss von Sättigung und Temperatur
Authors: Vrettos Christos , Seibel Elisabeth , Günther Ronald
Published: August 2023

Eine Teilsättigung führt bei gefrorenen Sanden und Kiesen zu einer signifikanten Abnahme der Kurz‐ und Langzeitfestigkeit, sodass bei Anwendung des Gefrierverfahrens die Standsicherheit des Frostkörpers beeinträchtigt werden kann. Zur Ermittlung der einaxialen Druckfestigkeit, des Kriechwiderstands sowie der Scherparameter wurden an Sanden einaxiale und triaxiale Druckversuche mit einer Kühlung am Gerät durchgeführt. Die Ergebnisse bestätigen und vervollständigen die Erkenntnisse aus früheren, vereinzelten Studien. Untersuchungen an ungestörten mittelplastischen und ausgeprägt plastischen Tonproben mit der gleichen Versuchstechnik verdeutlichen den Einfluss der Konsistenzgrenzen und die Zunahme der Kurz‐ und Langzeitfestigkeit bei tieferen Temperaturen.
A modified Jarvis model to improve the expressing of stomatal response in a beech forest
Authors: Shao Wei , Li Meijun , Su Ye , Gao Hongkai , Vlček Lukáš
Published: August 2023

The Jarvis‐type model, which incorporates stress functions, is commonly used to describe the physiological behaviour of stomatal response in various vegetation species. However, the model has been criticized for its empirically formulated multiplicative equation, which may not accurately capture the mutual impact of intercorrelated stress factors, for example, vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and air temperature (Ta). This study proposed a modified Jarvis model that introduces reduction factors in the stress functions of VPD and Ta to provide the description of canopy conductance. We used sap flow data from a beech forest in the mid‐latitude region of Centre Europe to inversely estimate the canopy conductance with optimized stress functions. Our findings reveal that two recommended parameterization strategies for general deciduous broadleaf forest (DBF) significantly overestimated the transpiration rate, with a maximum value of ~2 mm/day on rainless days. This suggested that the beech forest exhibited a distinct stomatal response compared to the general DBF category. By applying boundary line analysis to fit the parameters, both the unmodified and modified Jarvis models provided better simulations of transpiration, with relatively high Nash‐Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) values of 0.75 and 0.77, respectively. These results indicated that modelling transpiration can be improved by refining the parameterization of canopy conductance, particularly for vegetation species with unique stomatal behaviours that deviated from the characteristics of their general vegetation type. The modified Jarvis model offers a more accurate description of canopy conductance and enhances the modelling of transpiration in vegetated areas, especially under dry environment conditions with relatively high VPD.
The role of memory T cells in Echinococcus granulosus‐induced sensitization
Authors: Zhou Jing‐Ru , Du Xiao‐Xuan , Abulajiang Xianyidan , Geli Wuer , Pu Xue‐Li , Tailaiti Subi , Lin Jia‐Ying , Li Yu‐Qian , Ye Jian‐Rong
Published: August 2023

Objective

To investigate the changes in memory T cells and the related factors in mice by the establishment of a BALB/c mouse model of Echinococcus granulosus‐induced sensitization.

Methods

A sensitized BALB/c mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of E. granulosus. A control group (CTRL), a nonsensitized group infected with E. granulosus (CE), and a sensitized group infected with E. granulosus (ANPC) were set up. The pathological changes in lung tissue in mice, the change in memory T cells (CD4 Tm), and the change in peripheral blood nucleated interleukin‐23 (IL‐23) were detected using HE staining, flow cytometry, and liquid‐phase multiple protein quantification techniques, respectively.

Results

The individual percentage of mouse memory T cells was 9.14 ± 0.45, 25.23 ± 0.17, and 13.29 ± 0.32 in the CTRL, CE, and ANPC groups, respectively. The percentage of memory T cells in the ANPC group was higher than that in the CTRL group (t = 18.410, p < .001) but lower than that in the CE group (t = −80.147, p < .001). The levels of IL‐23 in peripheral blood of mice in the CTRL, CE, and ANPC groups were 225.76 ± 27.16, 359.21 ± 28.67, and 215.69 ± 22.69, respectively. The level of IL‐23 in peripheral blood of mice in the ANPC group was lower than that in the CE group (t = 9.609, p < .001), and there was no statistical difference with the CTRL group (t = 0.697, p = .502).

Conclusion

In the BALB/c mouse model of E. granulosus‐induced sensitization, the expression of IL‐23 in peripheral blood increased, and the memory T cell proliferated and became activated; there was a decrease in the content of IL‐23 in peripheral blood and number of activated memory T cells in the sensitization group infected with E. granulosus. The E. granulosus‐induced allergic reaction was related to IL‐23 and the activation of memory T cells.
The immunomodulatory effects of lactoferrin and its derived peptides on NF‐κB signaling pathway: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yami Hojjat Allah , Tahmoorespur Mojtaba , Javadmanesh Ali , Tazarghi Abbas , Sekhavati Mohammad Hadi
Published: August 2023

Background

Lactoferrin is a versatile protein with important modulatory functions in inflammation and immune response. This glycoprotein can bind and sequester iron and LPS, thereby intervening in certain signaling pathways and biological processes. In the present meta‐analysis, we aimed to pool experimental data regarding the immunomodulatory effects of lactoferrin and its derived peptides on the NF‐κB signaling pathway.

Materials

We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases and obtained all related articles published before April 2022. Finally, 25 eligible studies were selected, and their reports were analyzed.

Methods

We used Review Manager Version 5.2 to compute the standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval. In addition, the source of heterogeneity was explored using meta‐regression and sensitivity analysis. The symmetry of the funnel plot and Egger's test were also used to evaluate publication bias utilizing Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis Version 2.

Results

Comparing the group of cells and animals exposed to lipopolysaccharide alone with the group that received pretreatment with lactoferrin and its derivatives, we observed significant reductions in TNF‐α, IL‐1 beta, and IL‐6 levels by 8.73 pg/mL, 2.21 pg/mL, and 3.24 pg/mL, respectively, in the second group. Additionally, IKK‐β, p‐IκB, and NF‐κB (p65) levels were significantly lower by 7.37‐fold, 15.02‐fold, and 3.88‐fold, respectively, in various cells and tissues.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this meta‐analysis, lactoferrin and its derived peptides can be considered potent prophylactic and therapeutic candidates against inflammation‐associated diseases by targeting the NF‐kB pathway.
Empowering ultrasound image filtering precision by reducing speckles and preserving edge cues
Authors: Hababeh Ismail , Hammad Lina R. , Daoud Mohammad I. , Al‐Najar Mahasen S.
Published: August 2023

Ultrasound speckle is an interference pattern that reduces the quality of medical ultrasound images and decreases the capability of interpreting the medical information included in these images. Therefore, speckle suppression is vital whenever ultrasound imaging is used. In this research, an efficient adaptive ultrasound image filter is proposed to reduce ultrasound speckle while maintaining the edge cues in the image. In particular, the pixels that correspond to tissue boundaries are identified by computing the edge map of ultrasound image, and the noisy pixels are determined by calculating the image radiation. The proposed filtering method is designed to adaptively apply different window sizes and bandwidths based on the edge map and image radiation. The proposed method is employed to process a set of ultrasound images and the filtering performance is assessed using a set of broadly accepted filtering metrics. These metrics aim to evaluate the filtering performance, including the capability of the filter to preserve the edges and maintain the image quality. The performance of the proposed filtering method is compared with eight existing image filtering methods. The experimental results indicated that the proposed filtering method enables effective edge preservation and retains image quality. These results suggest the potential of the proposed filtering method to achieve effective speckle suppression in ultrasound images.
The RNA‐binding protein ZFP36 strengthens innate antiviral signaling by targeting RIG‐I for K63‐linked ubiquitination
Authors: Jiang Xue , Xiao Yanping , Hou Wen , Yu Jingge , He Tian‐Sheng , Xu Liang‐Guo
Published: August 2023

Innate immunity is the first line of defense against infections, which functions as a significant role in resisting pathogen invasion. Rapid immune response is initiated by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) quickly distinguishing “self” and “non‐self.” Upon evolutionarily conserved pathogen‐associated molecular pattern (PAMP) is recognized by PRRs, innate immune response against infection is triggered via an orchestration of molecular interaction, cytokines cascades, and immune cells. RIG‐I plays a critical role in type I interferon (IFN‐I) production by direct recognition of cytoplasmic double‐stranded viral RNA. However, the activation mechanism of RIG‐I is incompletely understood. In this study, we reported RNA‐binding protein ZFP36 as a positive regulator of RIG‐I‐mediated IFN‐I production. ZFP36 is a member of Zinc finger proteins (ZFPs) characterized by the zinc finger (ZnF) motif, which broadly involved gene transcription and signal transduction. However, its role in regulating antiviral innate immune signaling is still unclear. We found that ZFP36 associates with RIG‐I and potentiates the FN‐β production induced by SeV. Mechanistically, ZFP36 promotes K63‐linked polyubiquitination of RIG‐I, mostly at K154/K164/K172, thereby facilitating the activation of RIG‐I during infection. While the mutant ZFP36 (C118S/C162S) failed to increase polyubiquitination of RIG‐I and SeV induced FN‐β. Our findings collectively demonstrated that ZFP36 acts as a positive regulator in antiviral innate immunity by targeting RIG‐I for K63‐linked ubiquitination, thus improving our understanding of the activation mechanism of RIG‐I.
Long‐term safety and effectiveness of azathioprine in the management of inflammatory bowel disease: A real‐world experience
Authors: Yewale Rohan V , Ramakrishna Balakrishnan S , Doraisamy Babu Vinish , Basumani Pandurangan , Venkataraman Jayanthi , Jayaraman Kayalvizhi , Murali Ananthavadivelu , Premkumar Karunakaran , Kumar Akkim Sathish
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim

Azathioprine (AZA) forms the cornerstone for maintenance of sustained remission in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There is apprehension regarding the long‐term effectiveness and safety of AZA in IBD. We present our experience with AZA use and outcomes in a cohort of IBD patients followed up over a long period of time.

Methods

Records of 507 IBD patients under treatment at a single, tertiary care center in south India between 2013 and 2022 were evaluated retrospectively. Long‐term compliance, tolerance, clinical outcome at the point of last follow‐up, type and duration to the onset of adverse events, and subsequent amendment to treatment with regard to AZA were analyzed.

Results

Of 507 patients with IBD, 320 patients (207 Crohn's disease [CD], 113 ulcerative colitis [UC]) who received AZA were included. The median follow‐up was 41 months (interquartile range 15.5–77.5). Total duration of exposure was 1359 patient‐years with median usage of 33 months. Of the patients, 26.9% received AZA for >5 years. Mean initiation and maximum doses of AZA were 0.97 and 1.72 mg/kg/day. Among the participants, 20.6% experienced side effects, including myelotoxicity (7.2%) and gastrointestinal intolerance (5.6%). Six patients developed malignancy. Among the side effects, 39.4% of side effects were dose‐dependent. Among the patients, 38.1% had relapses requiring pulse corticosteroid therapy, and 16.2% had more than one relapse after commencement of AZA. AZA was continued till the last follow‐up in 76.5%. Among the patients, 49.7% (UC 51.3, CD 48.8) attained durable remission without biologics, and 5.3% continued to have active disease.

Conclusion

AZA is safe and effective in the long‐term in IBD. Effectiveness, tolerance, and compliance with AZA are well sustained beyond 5 years of usage and comparable between UC and CD.
In their own words: Safety and quality perspectives from families of hospitalized children with medical complexity
Authors: Mauskar Sangeeta , Ngo Tiffany , Haskell Helen , Mallick Nandini , Mercer Alexandra N. , Baird Jennifer , Bardsley Kristin , Berry Jay G. , Copp Katherine , Humphrey Kate , Kelly Michelle M. , Landrigan Christopher P. , Matherson Susan , McGeachey Amanda , Pinkham Amy , Rogers Jayne E. , Khan Alisa
Published: August 2023

Background

Children with medical complexity (CMC) experience adverse events due to multiorgan impairment, frequent hospitalizations, subspecialty care, and dependence on multiple medications/equipment. Their families are well‐versed in care and can help identify safety/quality gaps to inform improvements. Although previous studies have shown families identify important safety/quality gaps in hospitals, studies of inpatient safety/quality experience of CMC and their families are limited. To address this gap and identify otherwise unrecognized, family‐prioritized areas for improving safety/quality of CMC, we conducted a secondary qualitative analysis of safety reporting surveys among families of CMC.

Objective

Explore safety reports from families of hospitalized CMC to identify areas to improve safety/quality.

Designs, Settings and Participants

We analyzed free‐text responses from predischarge safety reporting surveys administered to families of CMC at a quaternary children's hospital from April 2018 to November 2020. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, we categorized responses into standard clinical categories. Three team members inductively generated an initial codebook to apply iteratively to responses. Reviewers coded responses collaboratively, resolved discrepancies through consensus, and generated themes.

Main Outcome and Measures

Outcomes: family‐reported areas of safety/quality improvement. Measures: pre‐discharge family surveys.

Results

Two hundred and eight/two hundred and thirty‐seven (88%) families completed surveys; 83 families offered 138 free‐text safety responses about medications, feeds, cares, and other categories. Themes included unmet expectations of hospital care/environment, lack of consistency, provider–patient communication lapses, families' expertise about care, and the value of transparency.

Conclusion

To improve care of CMC and their families, hospitals can manage expectations about hospital limitations, improve consistency of care/communication, acknowledge family expertise, and recognize that family‐observed quality concerns can have safety implications. Soliciting family input can help hospitals improve care in meaningful, otherwise unrecognized ways.
Under fire: Meta‐dehumanization and burnout among first responders
Authors: Mika‐Lude Kari M. , Degges‐White Suzanne , Isawi Dana
Published: August 2023

A study of 211 first responders was conducted to examine the correlation between first responders’ perceptions of dehumanization (i.e., meta‐dehumanization and organizational meta‐dehumanization) and burnout. Results of the hierarchical regression analysis showed a significant, positive relationship with large effect size between meta‐dehumanization and burnout when controlling for time in the profession. These findings indicate that first responders may need assistance coping with normal stressors of the job as well as the harm that can result from public perceptions. Implications at the professional and systemic levels are shared.
Ecological and social sustainable change through corporate social responsibility: The enabling role of employees
Authors: Kallmuenzer Andreas , Kraus Sascha , Bouncken Ricarda , Reinwald Daniil
Published: August 2023

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) provides companies with an opportunity to contribute to addressing global challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, wealth inequality, and fragile economic and political systems. Previous research has primarily focused on examining firm strategies and policies in response to these issues, but has paid limited attention to the involvement and role of employees in implementing CSR within organizations. By adopting a stakeholder theory perspective, this article aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of internal stakeholders regarding CSR initiatives. It also seeks to identify themes emerging from narrative interviews that are relevant to employees engaged in a transformative change process toward sustainability. The findings underscore the crucial role of employees as facilitators of CSR, highlight potential divergent perspectives on sustainability efforts, and recommend the inclusion and empowerment of employees in CSR initiatives. By doing so, organizations can effectively implement ecological sustainability and increasingly address social sustainability both within the firm and in the broader context.
Assessing spatiotemporal patterns of mesocarnivores along an urban‐to‐rural gradient
Authors: Soccorsi Anna E. , LaPoint Scott D.
Published: August 2023

Rapid increases in human development and activity are affecting the spatial and temporal dynamics of mammalian mesocarnivore communities. We used 40 motion‐sensitive cameras along an urban‐to‐rural gradient, and single‐season occupancy models, to evaluate the habitat use of a local mesocarnivore guild (coyote [Canis latrans], bobcat [Lynx rufus], red fox [Vulpes vulpes], gray fox [Urocyon cinereoargenteus], and raccoon [Procyon lotor]) near Newburgh, New York, USA, during May–September 2021. Additionally, we fit circular kernel density estimations to assess how mesocarnivores may alter their diel and nocturnal activity patterns in response to human development. Red foxes were positively associated with urban areas and were also significantly more active at night in semiurban areas versus rural and urban locations. Coyotes demonstrated some adaptability to urban areas, being generally more nocturnal as urbanization increased but were also more likely to use higher elevation sites and areas with more natural habitat cover. We did not find support for a spatial shield hypothesis, as red foxes and raccoons were often detected in the same semiurban and urban sites as coyotes. Bobcats generally avoided human‐dominated areas, whereas raccoons were ubiquitous throughout the gradient and exhibited similar daily and nocturnal activity levels in all land cover types. Overall, our results document how anthropogenic disturbance may alter mesocarnivore community structure and landscape use, providing information for managing urban carnivore populations and mitigating human–wildlife conflict, particularly at the local scale.
Association of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo with Depression and Anxiety—A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yeo Brian Sheng Yep , Toh Emma Min Shuen , Lim Nicholas E‐Kai , Lee Rachel Siying , Ho Roger Chun Man , Tam Wilson Wai San , Ngo Raymond Yeow Seng
Published: August 2023

Objective

To evaluate the extent to which Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is associated with a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients.

Data Sources

Three databases including PubMed, Embase, and The Cochrane Library were searched by two independent authors from inception to June 12, 2022 for observational studies and randomized controlled trials investigating the association between BPPV and depression and anxiety. We included studies published as full‐length articles in peer‐reviewed journals with an adult population aged at least 18 years who have BPPV, detected through validated clinical methods like clinical diagnosis, interview and Dix‐Hallpike test.

Results

A total of 23 articles met the final inclusion criteria and 19 articles were included in the meta‐analysis. BPPV was associated with a 3.19 increased risk of anxiety compared to controls, and 27% (17%–39%) of BPPV patients suffered from anxiety. Furthermore, the weighted average Beck's Anxiety Inventory score was 18.38 (12.57; 24.18), while the weighted average State–Trait Anxiety Index score was 43.08 (37.57; 48.60).

Conclusion

There appears to be some association between BPPV and anxiety, but further studies are required to confirm these associations. Laryngoscope, 134:526–534, 2024