bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tuning resistive switching behavior and conduction mechanism in Se₈₀Te₂₀ alloy with Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu additives
Authors: Kumari Nisha , Saraswat Vishnu , Mehta Neeraj , Dahshan A
Published: January 2025

The present investigations comprehensively analyze the current-voltage characteristics and conduction mechanism in Se80Te20 (ST) and Se78Te20TM2 (STTM; where TM denotes transition metals Cu. Fe, Co, and Ni) glasses. This study focuses on a multi-component system and investigates the voltage-current characteristics of nearly identical disc-shaped specimens at various temperatures below their glass transition points. By analyzing the experimental data, we discovered resistive switching phenomena in the parent glass and its ternary variants containing transition metals Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu. Remarkably, the resistive switching behavior of these samples has been observed to be related to the Meyer-Neldel rule. Additionally, our findings reveal space charge-limited conduction in binary and ternary alloys. We identified linear relationships between ln I and V1/2 across both low and high voltage ranges, which we explained using the Poole-Frenkel mechanism. While the I-V characteristics showed ohmic behavior at lower voltages, a transition to non-ohmic behavior at higher voltages was attributed to voltage-induced temperature effects.
Emitting a large aperture coherent fiber laser array by a small footprint cascaded internal phase sensing system
Authors: Su Rongtao , Long Jinhu , Jiang Min , Jin Kaikai , Chang Hongxiang , Ma Yanxing , Zhou Pu
Published: January 2025

The large aperture coherent fiber laser array (CFLA) holds significant potential for diverse applications, such as optical communication, beam scanning, and energy transmission. In a large aperture CFLA system, precise phase control is of paramount importance; however, it encounters certain challenges. The main difficulty lies in phase detection and the reduction in control bandwidth with an increasing number of combined elements. This paper proposed and experimentally demonstrated a cascaded internal phase sensing technique employing a hybrid optimized algorithm. In the experiment, the entire CFLA had three sub-arrays, each comprising four beamlets. The stochastic parallel gradient descent algorithm was employed to lock the phase of each sub-array, while compensating the phase differences among them using the single-frequency dithering algorithm. Consequently, the complete large aperture CFLA could be directly emitted into free space with locked phases. The average residual phase error was less than ∼λ/22. Additionally, interference patterns in the far field exhibited approximately 94% visibility with an emitting efficiency of 80%. Since the cascaded internal phase sensing system is compact and separated from the laser emitting system, our technique offers flexibility in designing both beam caliber and arrangement within the CFLA. This work provides practical insights for designing large aperture CFLA systems and achieving effective phase control.
Evolution mechanism of the dynamic excavation deformation of deep foundation pits with water-rich sand-pebble geology
Authors: Cheng Xuansheng , Ding Kai , Liu Haibo
Published: January 2025

This study focuses on the deep foundation pit with water-rich sand and gravel geology at the Southwest Jinfu Station of Chengdu Metro Line 6. A typical sand and gravel foundation pit standard cross-section is selected, and a plastic hardening constitutive model is employed. Considering the fluid-structure interaction during the excavation process, the study systematically analyzes the lateral displacement, bending moment variation, support axial force changes, as well as the evolution of surface settlement and foundation uplift of the underground continuous wall. The results indicate that as the excavation depth increases, the lateral displacement of the underground continuous wall gradually increases, with the displacement pattern transitioning from cantilever to bow, fish belly, and finally to a kick-foot shape. The bending moment increases with the excavation depth. The support axial force undergoes significant changes during excavation, especially during the steel support stage, where noticeable axial force loss occurs. Additionally, as the excavation depth increases, the settlement and uplift of the soil behind the wall also exhibit significant changes.
Generalized integral points on abelian varieties and the Geometric Lang–Vojta Conjecture
Authors: Phung Xuan Kien
Published: January 2025

Let

f
:

A

→
B

f \colon \mathcal {A} \to B

be a family of abelian varieties over a compact Riemann surface

B
B

and fix an effective horizontal divisor

D

⊂

A

\mathcal {D} \subset \mathcal {A}

. We study

(
S
,

D

)

(S, \mathcal {D})

-integral sections

σ
\sigma

of the family

A

\mathcal {A}

where

S
⊂
B

S \subset B

is arbitrary. These sections

σ
\sigma

are algebraic and satisfy the geometric condition

f
(
σ
(
B
)
∩

D

)
⊂
S

f(\sigma (B) \cap \mathcal {D})\subset S

. Developing the work of Parshin, we establish new quantitative results concerning the finiteness and the polynomial growth of large unions of

(
S
,

D

)

(S, \mathcal {D})

-integral sections where

S
S

can vary and is required to be finite only in a thin analytic open subset of 

B
B

. Such results are out of the range of purely algebraic methods and imply new evidence and interesting phenomena to the Geometric Lang–Vojta Conjecture.
10-year clinical outcomes in Atypical Spitz Tumours: a prospective, single-centre observational cohort study
Authors: Weir Katie , Torley Donna , Digby Sarah
Published: January 2025

Atypical Spitz Tumours are an uncommon group of lesions which demonstrate features of both benign spitz naevi and malignant spitzoid melanoma. Risk stratification of atypical Spitz tumours can be difficult, thus creating uncertainty surrounding their management. We aimed to determine the long-term clinical outcomes of atypical spitz tumours over a 10-year follow-up period, including disease recurrence and incidence of metastasis.
Hepcidin, incident heart failure, and cardiac dysfunction in older adults: the ARIC study
Authors: Aboelsaad Iman A F , Claggett Brian L , Lamberson Victoria , Dorbala Pranav , Matsushita Kunihiro , Lutsey Pamela , Yu Bing , Lennep Brandon W , Farag Youssef M K , Shah Amil M , Buckley Leo F
Published: January 2025

Aims

Hepcidin regulates plasma and tissue iron levels. We studied the association of hepcidin levels with the risk of incident heart failure (HF) and cardiac dysfunction in older adults.

Methods and results

We included adults from the ongoing, longitudinal Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, who were free from prevalent anaemia and HF at Visit 5 (2011–13) and had available hepcidin and covariate data. Associations of plasma hepcidin levels with overall adjudicated incident HF, HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) were assessed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models. Cross-sectional associations of hepcidin with echocardiographic measures of cardiac structure and function were estimated using multivariable linear regression models. The mean age was 75 ± 5 years old, and 56% were women. In fully adjusted models, lower hepcidin levels were associated with a higher risk of overall incident HF [hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval (CI) per 50% lower hepcidin]: 1.15 [1.05–1.26]; P = 0.003] and HFpEF [HR (95% CI): 1.25 (1.10–1.42); P = 0.001]. Plasma hepcidin level was not significantly associated with the risk of incident HFrEF [HR (95% CI): 1.08 (0.94–1.24); P = 0.30]. Lower hepcidin levels were associated with higher E wave (P = 0.046), higher E/e′ ratio (P = 0.002), higher left atrial volume index (P = 0.005), and higher pulmonary artery systolic pressure (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

In community-dwelling older adults without anaemia, lower plasma hepcidin levels associate with a higher risk of incident HF (particularly HFpEF) and diastolic dysfunction.
Early Versus Late Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence After Pulsed Field Ablation: Insights From the admIRE Trial
Authors: Di Biase Luigi , Reddy Vivek Y , Bahu Marwan , Newton David , Liu Christopher F , Sauer William H , Goyal Sandeep , Iyer Vivek , Nair Devi , Osorio Jose , Mansour Moussa , Calkins Hugh , Wazni Oussama , Natale Andrea
Published: January 2025

Structured Abstract

Background and Aims

Studies have shown correlations between early recurrence (ER) and late recurrence (LR) of atrial arrhythmia after ablation with thermal technologies. This admIRE trial (NCT05293639) subanalysis aims to analyze ER versus LR in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) undergoing pulsed field ablation (PFA).

Methods

Patients with symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and ≥1 transtelephonic monitoring transmission during the blanking period were included (n=169). ER was defined as documented recurrence in the blanking period (days 1–90), and LR as recurrence in the evaluation period (days 91–365). Freedom from 12-month recurrence was estimated using Kaplan–Meier method. A Cox proportional-hazards regression model, with ER as the primary factor, and adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index, was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CI.

Results

ER was observed in 20.1% (31/169) of patients (66.1±7.1 years, 35.5% female, 46.6±48.4-month PAF history). Time to first documented ER was 49 (37–61) days. Occurrence of LR was 16.7% (23/138) in patients without ER, 71.0% (22/31) in those with ER, and 87.0% (20/23) in patients whose ER onset occurred within the first 2 months. Twelve-month freedom from documented recurrence was significantly lower in patients with ER at 29.0% (95% CI, 13.1%–45.0%), versus 82.5% (95% CI, 75.9–89.1%) in those without ER (adjusted HR, 7.9; 95% CI, 4.1–15.1; P<0.001).

Conclusion

This admIRE subanalysis demonstrated that PAF patients who experience ER after PFA are at a substantially higher risk for LR. The optimal duration of the blanking period post PFA need further assessments.
Regulatory role of miR-128-2-5p in serum exosomes on COL6A2 expression and postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Lu Liangjie , Wang Lijun , Wang Huihan , Yang Minjie
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the influence of miR-128-2-5p within serum-derived exosomes (Exos) on COL6A2 expression and its implications in postmenopausal osteoporosis (POMP). Utilizing bioinformatics analysis, we identified 1317 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), primarily enriched in the focal adhesion pathway—a critical regulator of osteoblast adhesion. A significant gene, COL6A2, emerged as notably downregulated in POMP, possessing potential as a diagnostic marker. Predictive analysis linked the upstream miRNA miR-128-2-5p, highly enriched in Exos, with the regulation of COL6A2. Experimentally, Exos from POMP patients demonstrated elevated miR-128-2-5p levels, which inhibited COL6A2 expression in vitro, reducing osteoblast adhesion and exacerbating osteoporotic conditions. These findings highlight the pivotal role of exosomal miR-128-2-5p in bone metabolism, suggesting a novel molecular mechanism and a potential therapeutic target in POMP.
Rethinking the rise of early-onset gastrointestinal cancers: a call to action
Authors: Weinberg Benjamin A , Murphy Caitlin C , Freyer David R , Greathouse K Leigh , Blancato Jan K , Stoffel Elena M , Drewes Julia L , Blaes Anne , Salsman John M , You Y Nancy , Arem Hannah , Mukherji Reetu , Kanth Priyanka , Hu Xin , Fabrizio Anne , Hartley Marion L , Giannakis Marios , Marshall John L
Published: January 2025

Since the early 1990s, there has been a dramatic rise in gastrointestinal cancers diagnosed in patients under age 50 for reasons that remain poorly understood. The most significant change has been the increase in incidence rates of early-onset colorectal cancer, especially rates of left-sided colon and rectal cancers. Increases in gastric, pancreatic, and other gastrointestinal cancer diagnoses have further contributed to this trend. We formed a multidisciplinary Think Tank to develop a strategic, coordinated approach to studying early-onset gastrointestinal cancers. This area of research is challenging given multifactorial etiologies. We focused on epidemiology and the environment, the microbiome, and survivorship as key pillars to structure a research framework. We advocate a comprehensive strategy to (1) use existing biospecimens, especially those collected longitudinally, with correlation to exposures (the exposome); (2) standardize microbiome specimen collection and analyses of blood, tissue, and stool specimens to minimize contamination and biases; (3) prioritize mechanistic studies to evaluate findings from biomarker studies; and (4) explore the unique survivorship needs of this young population. These recommendations build upon prior efforts with the goal of streamlining research into this important field of study while minimizing redundant efforts. We hope that our findings serve as a clarion call to motivate others to discover why young individuals are being diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancers at such an alarming rate and how to best support those who have been diagnosed.
The impact of the COVID-19 on the antifungal consumption and antifungal resistance in Candida species isolated from the blood cultures of critically ill patients in intensive care units
Authors: Kara Emre , Metan Gokhan , Gülmez Dolunay , Arikan-Akdagli Sevtap
Published: January 2025

Incidence of Candida species increased in critically ill COVID-19 patients in intensive care units. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on antifungal consumption and Candida species distribution in bloodstream infections. We observed that a significant increase in non-albicansCandida species cases (P = .005) in 2021 coincided with higher rates of fluconazole resistance (P = .002) and increased minimum inhibitory concentrations for echinocandins (P = .012). Notably, voriconazole consumption and increased MIC levels positively correlated with both Candida albicans and non-albicansCandida species. This study underscores the importance of judicious antifungal use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Analysis of the Gaia DR3 photometry of the dwarf planet Eris
Authors: Ortiz J L , Morales N , Gutiérrez P J
Published: January 2025

Eris, one of the five official dwarf planets, is slightly smaller than Pluto and notable for its high geometric albedo and homogeneous surface, which has hindered a clear determination of its rotation period. Recently, it was shown that Eris is tidally locked to the 15.786-d orbit of its satellite, Dysnomia. Our analysis of Eris’ Gaia DR3 photometry reveals a strong periodicity peak at 18.852 $\pm$ 0.003 h, which is the most prominent in the Lomb–Scargle periodogram, with a slightly stronger signal than the 15.77 $\pm$ 0.02-d period also present in the data. We analysed whether the newly identified period could be an artefact, but found no reason other than a phenomenon in Eris. Since Dysnomia is too faint to account for the photometric variability, a potential explanation for either of the periodicities could be the presence of an unknown close-in satellite. An additional satellite, undetectable so far by the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), could also explain Dysnomias non-Keplerian orbit and could lower Eris’s density to $\sim$2000 kg m−3, consistent with other similar-sized Trans-Neptunian Objects (TNOs) and Triton. It would also decrease Eris’s albedo by $\sim$10 per cent, aligning it more closely with expected values. However, this possibility also has considerable problems, and other scenarios are explored.
Supporting community translation of lung cancer screening: A web-based decision aid to support informed decision making
Authors: Studts Jamie L , Thurer Richard S , Studts Christina R , Byrne Margaret M
Published: January 2025

Background: Results of the National Lung Screening Trial create the potential to reduce lung cancer mortality, but community translation of lung cancer screening (LCS) has been challenging. Subsequent policies have endorsed informed and shared decision-making and using decision support tools to support person-centered choices about screening to facilitate implementation. This study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of LuCaS CHOICES, a web-based decision aid to support delivery of accurate information, facilitate communication skill development, and clarify personal preferences regarding LCS—a key component of high-quality LCS implementation. Methods: Using a parallel groups randomized trial, the study investigated the feasibility and acceptability of LuCaS CHOICES decision aid in comparison to the National Cancer Institute’s Lung Cancer Screening website. Three waves of self-report data were collected: baseline (PRE), 2 weeks post-baseline (POST), and 4 months post-baseline (FOL). Participant accrual and intervention access data were also collected to evaluate methodological feasibility for conducting a larger subsequent trial. Results: Participants assigned to LuCaS CHOICES (n = 25) and the NCI website (n = 25) interventions reported similar, favorable levels of intervention feasibility and acceptability that exceeded a priori criteria. Methodological feasibility was partially supported for the proposed accrual and retention goals, but accrual was slower than hypothesized, and documented exposure to the digital interventions was suboptimal per a priori standards. Conclusions: Overall, both interventions demonstrated intervention feasibility and acceptability. In addition, the proposed methods achieved desired levels of retention and overall data collection. Modifications to enhance intervention engagement should be explored prior to further testing. Subsequent steps involve conducting a randomized clinical trial to evaluate the effect of LuCaS CHOICES on informed decision making and preference-concordant screening behavior, supporting LCS translation into community settings.
Navigating Medical Device Product Liability in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Authors: Moutos Christopher P. , Phelps John Y.
Published: January 2025

Medical devices are an essential component of the practice of obstetrics and gynecology. These devices may, at times, suffer from a defect or failure, which could result in a product liability lawsuit when associated with patient harm. Medical device product liability lawsuits are directed toward the device manufacturer when a patient suffers harm because of a device. Device manufacturers may, however, attempt to focus liability on the health care professional, pointing litigation toward a medical malpractice claim. Health care professionals may face direct liability for a patient's injury when using a device off-label, by failing to follow previously issued device warnings, or by serving as a paid consultant or advocate of a defective device. With an increasing number of devices receiving U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval annually, defects in, failures of, and recalls of these devices will invariably occur. Although litigation for a patient's injury caused by a medical device is generally directed toward the manufacturer, health care professionals should be familiar with potential liability risks in their practice.
Long-Term Revision-Free Survival Following Operative Fixation of Femoral Neck Fractures in Young Adults
Authors: Panarello Nicholas M. , Gu Alex , Dance Sarah , Harrington Colin J. , Ferraro Samantha L. , Renninger Christopher H. , Sterling Robert S. , DeBritz James N.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVES:

To identify the rate of fixation failure following femoral neck fracture (FNF) fixation in young adults within a national database.

METHODS:

Design: Retrospective cohort study

Setting:

National all-payer claims database

Patient Selection Criteria:

Adults between 18 and 49 years of age who underwent operative fixation for FNF (AO/OTA 31-B) between January 2010 and April 2019 were identified.

Outcome Measures and Comparisons:

The primary outcome measure was five-year risk of revision surgery for fixation failure following operative management of FNF. Additional data variables included rate of fixation failure following open versus closed reduction techniques and the rate of revision fixation, intertrochanteric osteotomy for nonunion or malunion, and conversion to arthroplasty.

RESULTS:

A total of 3,534 young adults underwent operative fixation of a FNF during the study period. The mean age of the study population was 41.1 +/- 3.91 years (18-49) and a majority were male (52.6%). The five-year revision-free survival of young adults who underwent operative fixation for FNF was 86.1% (95% CI 85.5-89.1%). Four-hundred ninety-two patients (13.9%) required revision surgical intervention for fixation failure, including 210 (5.9%) revision fixation procedures and 21 (0.6%) intertrochanteric osteotomies; two hundred sixty-one (7.4%) patients underwent conversion to arthroplasty. There was no significant difference in rate of fixation failure when comparing open (n=392, 14.9%) and closed (n=100, 13.3%) reduction techniques (p=0.351).

CONCLUSIONS:

Following operative management of FNF in young adults, fixation failure due to avascular necrosis, nonunion/malunion, or posttraumatic arthritis occurred at a rate of 13.9%. There was no difference in the rate of treatment failure between open and closed reduction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic Level IV
A Novel Case of Pulmonary Sclerosing Diffuse PEComatosis With Neuroendocrine Cell Hyperplasia
Authors: Konopka Kristine E. , Kazerooni Ella A. , Han MeiLan K. , Myers Jeffrey L.
Published: January 2025

Proliferations of neoplastic perivascular epithelioid cells (PECs) may occur within the lung and extrathoracic sites. The term “PEComatosis” is applied to multiple or diffuse microscopic proliferations of neoplastic PECs. Pulmonary diffuse PEComatosis is extremely rare, with only one case documented in the literature to date. We herein report a novel sclerosing variant of diffuse PEComatosis in a 68-year-old woman with clinical tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), who underwent lung resection for evaluation of persistent, bilateral ground glass opacities. The patient had no respiratory complaints or ventilatory defects in pulmonary function tests. The morphologic features resembled the previous description of pulmonary diffuse PEComatosis, showing interstitial nodular and diffuse proliferation of predominantly clear epithelioid cells with PEC differentiation by immunohistochemistry. The PEComatous proliferation was accompanied by a pattern of sclerosis that overlapped with the sclerosing variant of PEComa. There was no evidence of lymphangioleiomyomatosis. The changes were complicated by neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia, which has not previously been reported in the lungs of patients with TSC.
Prolonged Preservation of up to 24h at 10°C does not Impact Outcomes after Lung Transplantation
Authors: Hoetzenecker Konrad , Ali Aadil , Campo-Cañaveral de la Cruz Jose , Schwarz Stefan , Crowley Carrasco Silvana , Romero Roman Alexandra , Aladaileh Mohammed , Benazzo Alberto , Jaksch Peter , Wakeam Elliott , Aversa Meghan , Keshavjee Shaf , Cypel Marcelo
Published: January 2025

Objective:

To determine the impact of prolonged storage of donor lungs at 10°C of up to 24h on outcome after lung transplantation.

Background:

An increasing body of evidence suggests 10°C as the optimal storage temperature for donor lungs. A recent study showed that cold ischemic times can be safely expanded to >12h when lungs are stored at 10°C. However, it is currently unknown how long donor lungs can be preserved before they deteriorate in function.

Methods:

Patients who received a donor lung stored at 10°C between 11/2020 and 06/2023 at the lung transplant programs of Toronto, Vienna and Madrid were included in this retrospective analysis. After excluding EVLP-cases, recipients were grouped based on the total preservation times of their donor organs (<12h: n=48; 12-18h: n=109; ≥18h: n=24). 372 recipients who had received an organ stored on-ice during the study period served as a control group.

Results:

Length of lung preservation ranged from 2h 27min to 29h 33min (mean 14h 06min). Despite these prolonged preservation times, early postoperative outcomes were excellent. Median length of mechanical ventilation did not differ between the three study groups (<12h: 41h [IQR 24-109]; 12-18h: 56h [IQR 24-143] and ≥18h: 59h [IQR 28-108]; P=0.493). ICU length of stay (6 d [4-14]; 8 d [4-23]; 8 d [5-32]) and hospital length of stay (32 d [20-48]; 29 d [20-50]; 26 d [17-50]) were also similar. Furthermore, length of donor organ preservation had no impact on patient survival (log rank P=0.413).

Conclusions:

Prolonged static preservation of donor lungs at 10°C for up to 24 hours is safe and does not impair short-intermediate outcomes after lung transplantation.
The Diagnostic Yield of Genomic Sequencing-Based Genetic Kidney Disease Testing in Kidney Transplant Candidates: Experience at an Urban US Transplant Center
Authors: Abu Al Rub Fadee , Elsurer Afsar Rengin , Fleetwood Vidya A. , Bastani Bahar , Randall Henry , Nazzal Mustafa , Varma Chintalapati , Afsar Baris , Jackson Holly , Yount Shannon , Wooley Cody , Light Jennifer , Davis Virginia , Caliskan Yasar , Lentine Krista L.
Published: January 2025

Background.

Recent studies suggest that approximately 10% of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have disease-causing genetic variants, an observation relevant to evaluation of kidney transplant candidates.

Methods.

We retrospectively investigated the diagnostic yield of genetic testing in kidney transplant candidates evaluated at our program (January 1, 2021–December 8, 2022). Inclusion criteria were as follows: first-degree relative(s) with CKD/end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), early-onset CKD, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, cystic kidney disease, alternative complement pathway-associated diseases, or ESKD of unknown cause.

Results.

One hundred eleven patients underwent genetic kidney disease testing. The most common indication for testing was early-onset CKD (34.2%), followed by a family history of CKD (23.4%), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (18.0%), cystic kidney disease (9.0%), alternative complement pathway diseases (3.6%), and ESKD of unknown cause (11.7%). Overall diagnostic yield was 46.9% (52/111), and yield was highest among candidates with a family history of CKD (61.5%; 16/26). Among cases with positive testing, the most common diagnostic variant was APOL1, with 2 renal risk variants identified in 57.7% (30/52), while monogenic causes of CKD were identified in 42.3% (22/52). Genetic testing led to further evaluation or to a different diagnosis than the initial clinical diagnosis in 8.1% (9/111) of the cohort. For 24 transplant candidates, their identified diagnostic variants indicated the need for genetic testing of related living donor candidates; of these, 6 living donor candidates were evaluated and underwent testing, of whom donation was excluded in 1 candidate.

Conclusions.

Pretransplant genetic testing increases understanding of CKD cause, and provides information for living donor evaluation and risk assessment of posttransplant disease recurrence.
Antioxidant and anti-browning activities of leaf extracts from paper mulberry (Broussonetia kazinoki)
Authors: Kim Chae Eun , Cheon Eun Young , Kim Yu Jeong , Lee Syng-Ook
Published: January 2025

This study evaluated the antioxidant and anti-browning properties of paper mulberry (PM, Broussonetia kazinoki) leaf extracts prepared using different solvents, water, 30% ethanol, and 70% ethanol. The total polyphenol and flavonoid contents of the extracts varied between 37.00 to 46.91 mg tannic acid equivalents per gram and 26.32 to 46.73 mg quercetin equivalents per gram, respectively, with the PM 70% ethanol extract (PME70) showing the highest levels. PME70 exhibited remarkable radical scavenging activity, with RC50 values of 39.88 for the ABTS radical and 56.30 for the DPPH radical, and demonstrated greater antioxidant stability than L-ascorbic acid over two weeks. Additionally, PME70 effectively inhibited potato polyphenol oxidase (PPO) in a dose-dependent manner, reaching an inhibition rate of 86.51% and an IC50 of 1.16 mg/mL. In anti-browning tests on apple slices, PME70-treated samples maintained significant color stability (∆L and ∆E values) compared to controls, including L-ascorbic acid, after 24 h of storage. These results highlight the potential of paper mulberry leaf extracts as a rich source of natural anti-browning agents for food applications.
Impact of room temperature on quality parameters and grading of eggs collected from the hens reared in battery cage systems
Authors: Maggonage Maggonage Hasini Udeshika , Sandakelum Kuruppu Mudiyanselage Rasika , Zaffar Jeevunjee , Abeyrathne Edirisingha Dewage Nalaka Sandun
Published: January 2025

Although poultry eggs are naturally preserved protein sources, their quality is lost over storage. Egg storage is commonly practiced at ambient temperature in developing countries. The current experiment was focused on the determination of the shelf life of eggs at room temperature, considering variations in quality parameters over storage. 150 eggs from 28-week-old Hyline brown hens were stored (25°C±2) for 49 days, and variations of quality parameters (such as Haugh unit, yolk index and color, yolk and albumen percentages, weight loss percentages, and pH of yolk and albumen) were checked. ‘AA’ quality eggs gradually lost quality to ‘A’ at the end of four weeks (Haugh unit with 71.75±1.09, 66.93±2.83 on Days 21 and 28, respectively), and ‘B’ grade eggs were identified on Day 35 (Haugh unit; 55.26±2.76). During storage, parameters like weight loss percentage (0.46±0.06 on Day 3 to 9.49±1.32 on Day 49), yolk weight percentage (25.42%±1.76 on Day 1 to 30.99%±0.55 on Day 49), and pH of albumen (8.06±0.20 on Day 1 to 9.30±0.06 on day 49) had increased significantly (p<0.05). Albumen weight percentage and yolk index had decreased significantly (p<0.05), while no significant difference was identified in yolk color. Hence, stakeholders (producers, manufacturers, and consumers) can expect a satisfactory quality (grade A) of eggs that are stored at room temperature (25°C) even after 28 days from the day of laying.
Physicochemical properties of jangjorim made with
beef, pork and venison
Authors: Lee So-Eun , Nam Yun-Ji , Choi Ung-Kyu
Published: January 2025

This study was conducted to compare the physicochemical properties of
jangjorim made with venison (JMV) with those of
jangjorim made with beef (JMB) and
jangjorim made with pork (JMP). It was confirmed that the
pH of the jangjorim was within the range of pH 5.8-5.9, and no
significant difference was found depending on the main ingredient. Both the
first and second yields after heat treatment were the highest in JMP, followed
by JMV and JMB. The color measurement results showed that JMP had the brightest
color, and the redness of JMV and JMP was lower than that of JMB. The b value
was higher in JMP, and there was no significant difference between JMP and JMV.
The color of the JMV was similar to that of JMB, and it was confirmed to be
considerably darker than that of JMP. As a result of examining the ultra-fine
structure of the cross-section and side of the each jangjorim,
no differences in muscle shape or size were observed among the three kinds of
jangjorim. Among the analyzed minerals, potassium and
sulfur were found to be the most abundant, followed by phosphorus >
magnesium > calcium. The main constituent fatty acids were found to be
palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic acid.
Antibody Responses to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine in Nursing Home Residents Support a Bi-Annual Update Schedule
Authors: Paxitzis Alexandra N , Oyebanji Oladayo A , Olagunju Olajide J , Keresztesy Debbie , Payne Michael , Ragavapuram Vaishnavi , Sundheimer Nicholas , See Ellen , Wilk Dennis , Cao Yi , Abul Yasin , Nugent Clare , Dickerson Evan , Wallace Tiffany , Holland Laurel , Nanda Aman , Pfeifer Walther M , Balazs Alejandro B , King Christopher L , Gravenstein Stefan , Canaday David H , Wilson Brigid M , Bosch Jurgen
Published: January 2025

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected nursing home residents (NHRs), a vulnerable group with high rates of illness and death. While vaccination is essential for reducing infections and severe outcomes in the short term, it is important to understand how long antibody levels and neutralizing activity last. This understanding will help us create effective public health strategies for the long term. According to current CDC guidelines, individuals over the age of 65 should receive a booster dose six months after their previous vaccination. Methods: This observational retrospective cohort study analyzed post-vaccination serum from samples with up to 400 days of follow-up from 697 NHRs and 127 healthcare workers (HCWs) across Northeast Ohio and Rhode Island. Analyses were conducted to model decay rates of both neutralizing and binding antibody titers and the impact of previous exposures to SARS-CoV-2 on these decay rates. Results: Results indicate that NHRs show Wuhan and Omicron BA.4/5 neutralizing and binding antibody titers diminish significantly from 2 weeks to 12 months post-vaccination. NHRs with prior infection show higher peak antibody titers and slower decay than those naive to infection. Antibody levels after vaccination for infection-naive NHR residents lagged HCW and NHR with prior infection, but then decayed at a similar rate. Conclusion: The immunologic findings in this cohort of NHR are in line with the existing real-world clinical effectiveness data in older individuals and support the CDC recommendation of a bi-annual vaccination to reduce severe COVID-19 outcomes in persons age 65 and older.
Modeling Retinitis Pigmentosa 59:DhddsT206A andDhddsK42E knock-in mutant mice are phenotypically similar
Authors: Nguyen Mai N. , Chakraborty Dibyendu , Messinger Jeffrey , Sherry David M. , Fliesler Steven J. , Pittler Steven J.
Published: January 2025

Dehydrodolichyldiphosphatesynthase (DHDDS) is an essential enzyme required for several forms of protein glycosylation in all eukaryotic cells. Surprisingly, three mutant alleles, (DhddsK42E/K42E(K42E/K42E),DhddsT206A/K42E(T206A/K42E), and found in only one patient,DhddsR98W/K42E(R98W/K42E) have been reported that cause non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa (RP59), an inherited retinal degeneration (IRD). Because T206A was only observed heterozygously with the K42E allele in RP59 patients, we used CRISPR/CAS9 technology to generate T206A/T206A, and subsequently T206A/K42E alleles in mice to assess the contribution of the T206A allele to the disease phenotype, to model the human disease, and to compare resulting phenotypes to our homozygous K42E mouse model. By postnatal (PN) 12-mo, T206A/K42E mice exhibit significant reduction of inner nuclear layer thickness as was observed in K42E/K42E mice. No change in outer nuclear layer thickness is observed in all mutant phenotypes up to PN 12 mo. Electroretinography (ERG) showed a significantly reduced b-wave without a-wave decrement and by PN 3-mo, ERG c- and d-wave responses were significantly attenuated in all phenotypes. Consistent with a reduction in inner nuclear layer thickness seen by OCT and cell loss observed by histology, bipolar and amacrine cell densities were reduced in allDhddsmutant phenotypes compared to PN 8-12 mo age-matched controls. These results indicate that theDHDDST206A allele causes retinal disease independent of the K42E allele, and that there likely is a common disease mechanism involving RP59-associatedDHDDSmutations. We conclude that the physiological basis of retinal dysfunction in RP59 involves defective signaling in the inner retina resulting in bipolar/amacrine cell degeneration.
Elevated α-synuclein aggregate levels in the urine of patients with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder and Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Müller Laura , Özdüzenciler Pelin , Schedlich-Teufer Charlotte , Seger Aline , Jergas Hannah , Fink Gereon R. , Willbold Dieter , Sommerauer Michael , Barbe Michael T. , Tamgüney Gültekin
Published: January 2025

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by α-synuclein aggregation in neurons. Recent advances suggest α-synuclein aggregates could serve as a biomarker for Parkinson’s disease and related synucleinopathies. This study used surface-based fluorescence intensity distribution analysis (sFIDA) to measure α-synuclein aggregates in urine. Patients with Parkinson’s disease and isolated REM sleep behavior disorder, a precursor to Parkinson’s disease, had elevated concentrations compared to healthy controls. Sensitivity and specificity were 83% and 65% for Parkinson’s disease versus controls and 89% and 62% for isolated REM sleep behavior disorder versus controls. The findings highlight sFIDA’s potential for diagnosing synucleinopathies.
Dementia Education and Training for the Multidisciplinary Student Healthcare Workforce: A Systematic Review
Authors: Muralidhar Malvika , Delray Saskia , Cooper Claudia , Zabihi Sedigheh , Banerjee Sube , Giebel Clarissa , Harrison-Dening Karen , Birks Yvonne , Kenten Charlotte , Walpert Madeleine
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To systematically review existing policies and research evidence on the effectiveness of dementia education and training for health and social care students.

Methods

We searched electronic databases for primary research studies (published between 2015-2024), evaluating dementia training for health and social care students. We assessed risk of bias using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, prioritising studies scoring 4+ (higher quality) that reported significant findings on primary outcomes from controlled intervention trials. We reported outcomes using Kirkpatrick’s framework. We consulted professional stakeholders in focus group regarding how findings might inform practice.

Results

17/35 included studies were rated 4+ on the MMAT; only one met our criteria for priority evidence. An experiential programme for medical students, “Time for Dementia”, which combined skill-learning and reflective sessions with visits to people with dementia, was found to improve Kirkpatrick Level 2 (learning) outcomes, attitudes and knowledge over two years of participation; this was supported from findings from qualitative studies. Asynchronous, self-directed learning did not improve learning outcomes, relative to standard training. Though almost all training programmes sought to learn from lived experience, none consulted patients regarding the impact of the training on students’ skills and practice. Nine focus group attendees agreed that the evidence reflected their experiences that consistent support, combined with skills-based and reflective sessions, optimised student learning from initial patient-focused encounters.

Conclusions

Effective interventions increased confidence and enjoyment of dementia care encounters, and increased interest in careers in dementia specialties. Mandating evidence-based dementia skills programmes across specialties could ensure that students learn the skills and competencies required to be part of an effective future workforce and drive important improvements in care quality. Evidence based approaches to enhancing dementia education in training could include experiential learning modules in early years of medical school training and allied health and care professional training, using evidence-based approaches to teach communication skills and other essential dementia care skills within clinical placements, and providing dedicated supervision to support their implementation. Future research could usefully consider patient perspectives in determining the impact of educational programmes.
Experimental conditions to retrieve intrinsic cooperativity α directly from single binding assay data exemplified by the ternary complex formation of FKBP12, MAPRE1 and macrocyclic molecular glues
Authors: Schnatwinkel Jan , Stein Richard R. , Salcius Michael , Wong Julian , Chen Shu-Yu , Fouché Marianne , Roth Hans-Joerg
Published: January 2025

The incorporation of disease-relevant targets in a compound-dependent manner into ternary complexes with an assisting chaperone protein has become a common modality. Among the various types of ternary complex-forming compounds, molecular glues are of particular interest because they do not require significant binary (independent) target affinity. Instead, ternary complexes formed by molecular glues retrieve a significant part of their thermodynamic stability through newly induced chaperone–target or glue–target interactions that occur only in the ternary complex. These interactions lead to enhanced ligand binding – termed intrinsic cooperativity α – which can be retrieved via the apparent cooperativity either by monitoring ligand binding through the chaperone or through the target protein. In this publication, the advantage of measuring the apparent cooperativity to determine the cooperativity α by the weaker binding protein is discussed and illustrated using the example of ternary complexes between FKBP12, MAPRE1 and macrocyclic molecular glues derived from the rapamycin binding motif for FKBP12. Furthermore, the impact of the following three parameters on the apparent cooperativity is illustrated: 1.) the concentration of the monitoring protein, 2.) the excess of the counter protein, 3.) the affinity of the glue to the weaker binding protein in combination with the degree of intrinsic cooperativity α. From this, experimental conditions to determine the intrinsic cooperativity α with only one binding assay and without the need for a comprehensive mathematical model covering all simultaneous events under non-saturating conditions are highlighted. However, this framework requires a binding assay capable of measuring or at least estimating very weak binary affinities. If this is not possible for experimental reasons, but binding assays for both proteins are available within a normal bandwidth and the affinity to the stronger binding protein is not too high, it is discussed how the binding curve for the weaker binding protein in the presence of an excess of the weaker binding protein can be used to overcome the missing binaryKdfor the weakly binding protein.
The role of restaurant diners’ motivations and restaurant attributes in developing customer loyalty in traditional Chinese medicine restaurants
Authors: Kim Jong-Hyeong , Xu Yuchen , Kim Seongseop (Sam)
Published: January 2025

Purpose

In a reflection of individuals’ interest in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, nutraceutical restaurants, which provide health benefits, have emerged on the market. However, little is known about the underlying factors and mechanisms of the consumption of nutraceutical foods. Therefore, grounded in an extended cognitive–affective–conative model, this study examines the role of dining motivations and restaurant attributes in explaining an integrated model that focuses on customers’ loyalty formation process.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 893 Chinese customers who had recently dined at traditional Chinese medicine restaurants. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling, this study examined the structural relationships among dining motivations, restaurant attributes, customers’ perceived benefits, overall satisfaction, place attachment and revisit intentions.

Findings

The results of a confirmatory factor analysis revealed that two main motivations (i.e. health and traditional culture) and five restaurant attributes (i.e. food, service staff food recommendation, service staff service quality, furniture and tableware and atmosphere) are stimuli that influence customers’ perceived benefits. This study also revealed that four types of perceived benefits (functional, emotional, social and epistemic) significantly affect overall satisfaction and place attachment, which determine revisit intentions.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study help identify not only important dining motivations and restaurant attributes but also their roles in loyalty formation with respect to traditional Chinese medicine restaurants. Thus, the results contribute to an improved understanding of how to satisfy customers’ dining motivations and efficiently manage restaurant attributes to strengthen customer loyalty.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to simultaneously examine the effects of customer motivation and restaurant attributes and to explain how they affect customer loyalty behaviors at traditional Chinese medicine restaurants.
A strange angel: William Norman Illingworth [1902–1980] and Sangreal School – towards a history of conservative alternative schools in 20th-century Britain
Authors: Limond David
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This work concerns William Norman Illingworth [1902–1980]. Disillusioned with teaching in conventional schools and inspired by Rudolf Steiner [1861–1925] he founded Sangreal School, in 1947, and operated this until the early 1970s. Sangreal was what I describe as a “conservative alternative school”, employing methods and pursuing goals not found in most British schools of the period but, unlike avowedly progressive establishments, guided by socially conservative principles. The purposes of the work are both to rescue his/Sangreal’s story from obscurity and to encourage research to establish if other such schools have existed and, if so, to describe and analyse them in an effort to give the category conservative alternative school the recognition it properly deserves.

Design/methodology/approach

The method is a combination of life history/biography and case study of a specific school.

Findings

The story is interesting in its own terms and points to the existence of a hitherto unnoticed category in history of education.

Research limitations/implications

This work may lead to the proper recognition of a neglected category.

Originality/value

This work deals with a school hitherto unknown to most people and may lead to the recognition of a new category.
Incubation support for academia-based entrepreneurship: an empirical study
Authors: Rai Ravi Shankar , Prasad Asha , Murthy B.K.
Published: January 2025

="abstract-subheading">Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the components of support capability in academia-based business incubators (BIs) in higher education establishments in India to generate successful start-ups. Using both resource-based theory and resource-dependence theory, the study demonstrates how BIs provide support capability to mitigate market risks and optimize start-up sustainability and performance.

="abstract-subheading">Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates how BIs obtain many resources to achieve start-up support capability by conducting a study in government-supported, academically backed BIs. Using partial least squares-structural equation modelling, a survey of start-up owners from these BIs was carried out to evaluate the linkages.

="abstract-subheading">Findings

The aspects of academic-based BIs’ support capabilities were discovered in the current study. In addition, support capacity was identified in this study as a higher-order factor, and its link to connected aspects of support offered by the academic institution supporting BIs is described.

="abstract-subheading">Originality/value

By establishing the precise characteristics of BIs’ support capability and explaining them as a higher-order element, the work adds to the body of knowledge. It improves knowledge of BIs’ potential to help start-ups’ performance and sustainability.