bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Numerical Simulation Study on Condensation Heat Transfer Performance of Serrated Spiral‐Finned Tube
Authors: Jin Kelang , Liu Xiang , Zhang Lei , Xue Xue , Zhou Hao
Published: December 2024

Serrated spiral‐finned tubes have been extensively applied in heat exchangers, but the main research on them is about sensible heat transfer processes and only a few studies focus on condensation behavior. In this research, a model of mass and heat transfer about condensation of water vapor on the outside tube surfaces is developed by Fluent combined with a user‐defined function. The effects of different finned tube geometrical parameters are investigated. The model's reliability is verified by experiments on smooth tubes. The model is applied to finned tubes with different structures. A simple evaluation index about the dimensionless condensation rate , the dimensionless heat transfer factor j, and the resistance factor f is used to assess the comprehensive heat transfer performance of these finned tubes. The simulation results reflect that the increase of the base tube's outer diameter could enhance the comprehensive heat transfer performance, whereas the increase of the height and width of the open tooth will weaken the comprehensive condensation heat transfer performance to a different degree. Finally, the correlation equations of Nu, Eu, and dimensionless condensation rate with wet air flow rate, water vapor content, base tube's outer diameter, and height and width of the open tooth are fitted, the deviations of Nu are not more than 5%, and the relative deviations of and Eu could satisfy that 93% of the data is within 30%. Then, the finned tube geometry with optimal integrated condensation heat transfer performance ( = 23 mm,  = 6 mm, w = 2.97 mm) is obtained.
Effect of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Treatment on Physical Properties of Polypropylene Films
Authors: Liu Shiheng , Shi Rongxi , Yang Yang , Li Lu , Wang Guohua
Published: December 2024

Supercritical carbon dioxide (ScCO2) is becoming an important “green” solvent, primarily due to its low toxicity, recyclability, and environmental sustainability compared with conventional organic solvents. Recent advancements in large‐scale manufacturing technology have made ScCO2 increasingly feasible and attractive for a wide range of industrial applications, such as foaming and coffee extraction. In this paper, we investigate the physical properties of commercial polypropylene (PP) mono‐oriented films after treatment with ScCO2. We have observed a remarkable increase of over 40% in elongation at break and a 30% increase in tensile strength along the machine direction (MD) concurrently, a rather unusual phenomenon. Additionally, the smoothness of the film surface is significantly enhanced. Various studies have been conducted to uncover the underlying mechanism. The newly formed γ‐crystal structure may contribute to the improved mechanical properties along the MD. Other important contributing factors may include increased free volume and chain relaxation resulting from the ScCO2 treatment. These findings hold considerable promise for various industrial applications, thanks to the low cost, simplicity, scalability, and environmental benefits associated with the ScCO2 treatment process.
Effects of Fluorescent Tracer Additives on PET During Material Recycling
Authors: Auer Maximilian , Schmidt Jannick , Woidasky Jörg
Published: December 2024

The material properties and stable chemical structure of PET make it a frequently used polymer, for example, for packaging applications, and allow multiple recycling processes. Fluorescent tracer additives in polymer waste management may enhance the sorting quality of packaging waste streams by using the fluorescent signal of tracer additives introduced into the polymer matrix. Prior to field application of tracer additives, it is necessary to investigate tracer influence on the polymer matrix in general and, more specifically, in multiple recycling cycles. Therefore, PET with mineral tracer concentrations of 0, 10, 100, and 1000 ppm was extruded up to six times. To investigate changes in material properties, differential scanning calorimetry, intrinsic viscosity, spectroscopic analysis, tensile testing, and color measurements were performed. In parallel, the up‐conversion photoluminescence of the tracer was quantified. Polymer degradation is generally induced by mechanical and thermal degradation during multiple processing cycles, leading to chain shortening, reduction of molecular weight, and the formation of new functional groups, as previously published in the literature. The results of the experiments indicate that tracer additives do not further affect the thermal, rheological, chemical, and optical polymer properties. Moreover, photoluminescent tracer properties are not affected by multiple polymer processing cycles.
Investigating CuO‐ZrO2 Mixed Metal Oxide Nanocomposites for Electrochemical Sensing of Food Colors
Authors: Mistry Khyati , Chakroborty Subhendu , Doshi Preet , Chandra Prakash , Ramakrishna D. S. , Bal Trishna , Darwish Ibrahim A. , Mantry Swarna P. , Soren Siba , Barik Arundhati , Praveen P. Lakshmi
Published: December 2024

A fast and highly sensitive electrochemical sensor (ECS) is crucially desirable for observing synthetic dyes in foodstuffs, as excessive consumption of these colorants can pose risks to human health, including toxicity and pathogenicity. This research introduces the creation of an ECS comprising a CuO‐ZrO2 nanocomposite for detecting Sunset Yellow (SY) dye in beverage and food items. The synthesized CuO‐ZrO2 material underwent thorough characterization using various physicochemical and electroanalytical methods. The ECS deposited over glassy carbon electrode (GCE) demonstrated its best response for SY when operated using a 0.01‐M, pH 5 phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) solution. The optimal performance for the SY detection was obtained at a scan rate of 0.1 V s−1. Under these ideal conditions, the CuO‐ZrO2 demonstrated a linear range of 0.01–50 ppm for SY. The current limited of detection was 7699 μA, while the sensitivity value was determined to be 19.43 μA μM−1 cm−2. This straightforward and highly responsive sensor offers rapid and cost‐effective detection of SY.
Synthesis of benzo‐12‐crown‐4 ether immobilized silica for lithium‐ion adsorption
Authors: Jeong Yun‐Gyeong , Lim Che‐Ryong , Na Yong‐Bok , Yun Yeoung‐Sang , Kim Se‐Jung , Lee Youn‐Sik
Published: December 2024

To develop an adsorbent for Li+ recovery from seawater and/or spent lithium batteries, a benzo‐12‐crown‐4 ether (B12C4) moiety was immobilized with silica (immobilization yield: 0.70 meq g−1). Compared to pure silica, the resulting adsorbent (FB12C4‐SG) had a reduced Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area (500 vs. 180 m2 g−1) and pore volume (0.75 vs. 0.26 cm3 g−1). The Li+ adsorption reached equilibrium at 31 mg g−1 after 2 h (1000 ppm Li+ solution). The adsorption behavior was well explained by pseudo‐second‐order kinetics and the Langmuir adsorption model (maximum adsorption capacity: 33 mg g−1). The material exhibited a Li+/Na+ adsorption selectivity factor of 4.2 and high chemical stability under acidic regeneration conditions (1.0 N HCl solution).
Gut Microbiota as Mediator and Moderator Between Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Prospective Study
Authors: Hu Bingren , Yang Yi , Yao Jiangqiao , Lin Ganglian , He Qikuan , Bo Zhiyuan , Zhang Zhewei , Li Anlvna , Wang Yi , Chen Gang , Shan Yunfeng
Published: December 2024

Background

The impact of gut microbiome on hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear. We aimed to evaluate the potential correlation between gut microbiome and HBV‐related HCC and introduced novel machine learning (ML) signatures based on gut microbe to predict the risk of HCC.

Materials and Methods

A total of 640 patients with chronic liver diseases or HCC were prospectively recruited between 2019 and 2022. Fecal samples were collected and subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify risk characteristics. Several ML methods were employed to construct gut microbe‐based models and the predictive performance was evaluated.

Results

A total of 571 patients were involved in the study, including 374 patients with HCC and 197 patients with chronic liver diseases. After the propensity score matching method, 147 pairs of participants were enrolled in the analysis. Bacteroidia and Bacteroidales were demonstrated to exert mediating effects between HBV and HCC, and the moderating effects varied across Bacilli, Lactobacillales, Erysipelotrichaceae, Actinomyces, and Roseburia. HBV, alpha‐fetoprotein, alanine transaminase, triglyceride, and Child‐Pugh were identified as independent risk factors for HCC occurrence. Seven ML‐based HBV‐gut microbe models were established to predict HCC, with AUCs ranging from 0.821 to 0.898 in the training set and 0.813–0.885 in the validation set. Furthermore, the merged clinical‐HBV‐gut microbe models exhibited a comparable performance to HBV‐gut microbe models.

Conclusions

Gut microbes are important factors between HBV and HCC through its potential mediating and moderating effects, which can be used as valuable biomarkers for the pathogenesis of HBV‐related HCC.
Metabolic Syndrome Is Associated With Poor Prognosis in Patients With Breast Cancer Receiving Neoadjuvant Therapy
Authors: Ma Youzhao , Zhang Jingyang , Jiao Dechuang , Chen Xiuchun , Liu Zhenzhen
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Few studies with a large sample size are available on patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) receiving neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) for breast cancer. This study aimed to investigate the impact of MetS on the prognosis of patients with breast cancer undergoing NAT.

Methods

The data of patients with breast cancer receiving NAT at our center from January 2017 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. A chi‐square test and logistic regression model were applied to ascertain the factors associated with MetS and pathological complete response (pCR). The Cox proportional risk model was employed for univariate and multivariate analyses of disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Of the 910 patients enrolled, 164 (18.0%) were diagnosed with MetS, 568 (62.4%) with stage II, and 342 (37.6%) with stage III. Postmenopausal status (p = 0.045) and stage III (p = 0.009) were associated with a higher incidence rate of MetS. MetS was associated with a lower pCR rate (p = 0.027). The 5‐year DFS (83.7% vs. 73.1%, p = 0.001) and OS (92.8% vs. 85.5%, p = 0.001) of the non‐MetS group were significantly better than those of the MetS group. In premenopausal women, the DFS (p = 0.001) and OS (p = 0.025) of the non‐MetS group were significantly better than those of the MetS group. No significant differences were noted in DFS (p = 0.270) or OS (p = 0.078) between the two groups in postmenopausal women. In the Cox proportional risk model, MetS acted as an independent factor associated with DFS (HR = 1.705, 95% CI: 1.201–2.421, p = 0.003) and OS (HR = 1.874, 95% CI: 1.149–3.055, p = 0.012).

Conclusion

MetS was associated with poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer receiving NAT. Hence, close attention should be paid to patients with breast cancer who have MetS.
Non‐Invasive Tumor‐Naïve Minimal Residual Disease Detection of Liver Cancer by Incorporating Circulating Tumor DNA Features and Alpha‐Fetoprotein: A Prospective Study
Authors: Ren Qingqi , Li Shiyong , Zhong Guolin , Li Yunfei , Huang Dao‐Ling , Zhang Liangliang , Feng Yumin , Long Guanghui , Mao Mao
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

Liver cancer has a high recurrence rate of 50%~70% for early‐stage patients. Minimal residual disease (MRD) is strongly linked to liver cancer early recurrence. Identifying MRD through reliable prognostic biomarkers, such as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), could significantly benefit these patients by enabling timely intervention and improved outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A prospective study enrolled 32 liver cancer patients undergoing radical surgery. Peripheral blood samples (8 mL) were collected before and after surgery. In this study, we expanded upon our previously developed multi‐omics assay, initially designed for liver cancer early detection by calculating a cancer signal score (PHCC), to determine the MRD status (named SeekInCure). This process integrated protein tumor marker alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) and cancer genomic hallmarks, copy number aberration (CNA) and fragment size (FS).

Results

Of the enrolled patients, 78.1% were in early stages, and before surgery, 87.5% of patients had successfully detected the cancer signal in blood. After radical surgery, 23 patients were MRD‐negative, exhibiting better overall survival compared to the MRD‐positive patients (n = 9, p < 0.01). Patients maintaining undetectable cancer signals pre‐ and post‐surgery showed 100% survival, conversely, those keeping with detectable signals had a 55.6% mortality rate.

Conclusion

This prospective study highlights the prognostic value of ctDNA‐based tumor‐naïve MRD detection through a multi‐omics assay in early‐stage liver cancer patients.
Enhancing Trust and Empathy in Marketing: Strategic AI and Human Influencer Selection for Optimized Content Persuasion
Authors: Zhang Yueyan , Zhu Jiaji , Chen Haibo , Jiang Yushi
Published: December 2024

Compared to human influencers, AI influencers offer advantages such as low cost, high efficiency, and fairer handling of objective tasks. However, they are believed to have shortcomings in perception and empathy abilities. How can companies select the more appropriate promoter between AI influencers and human influencers based on their marketing content? How can enterprises design more persuasive marketing content according to the type of influencer? Three behavioral experiments were conducted in this paper. The results indicate that when AI influencers post marketing content with functional advertising appeal, they can significantly enhance people's perceived trust. When human influencers share marketing content with experiential advertising appeal, they can significantly improve people's perceived empathy. Consumers with lower levels of knowledge are more susceptible to the matching effect of influencer type and advertising appeal type on the persuasive effect of marketing content than those with higher levels of knowledge. The conclusions of this study assist enterprises in scientifically matching influencer types with advertising appeals. By choosing influencers based on the nature of the marketing content or designing suitable marketing content based on the influencer type, companies can maximize marketing effectiveness. This refined marketing strategy not only improves the persuasive effect of the marketing content but also strengthens the brand's market competitiveness.
Influence of Y–Bi–Co oxide doping on electrical performance of ZnO varistors based on simulation analysis
Authors: Fu Zhengzheng , Zhang Zongxi , Fan Songhai , Cui Tao , Luo Donghui , Yin Yue , Meng Pengfei , Guo Jingke
Published: December 2024

ZnO varistors doped with , , and were analyzed for electrical performance, microstructure, phase composition, and elemental distribution using electrical performance testing, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and energy dispersive spectroscopy tests. The best results were obtained with 0.5 mol% , 2 mol% , and 3 mol% , yielding a 356 V/mm voltage gradient, 0.9 leakage current, and a nonlinear coefficient of 66.2. The Voronoi network model explained how and enhance Y‐doped varistor performance. Grain size was identified as the primary factor affecting the voltage gradient, while the thick grain boundary phase impedance, the direct contact area ratio, surface state density, and donor density were key factors influencing the nonlinear coefficient and leakage current. The results indicate that doping with and significantly enhances the electrical properties of Y‐doped varistors, and simulation methods effectively reveal the effect mechanisms of dopants on the varistors.
Effect of treated palm fibers on the mechanical properties of compressed earth bricks stabilized by alkali‐activated binder‐based natural pozzolan
Authors: Kamwa Rolande Aurelie Tchouateu , Mousi Joseph Bikoun , Tome Sylvain , Nemaleu Juvenal Giogetti Deutou , Gérard Martine , Etoh Marie‐Annie , Etame Jacques
Published: December 2024

The aim of this work is to study the influence of the palm fibers treated with soda hydroxide solution on the properties of the compressed earth bricks stabilized (CEBs) with alkali‐activated binder. The improvement in their mechanical parameters is attributable with 15 wt.% of alkali‐activated binder‐based natural pozzolan. To achieve this objective, mortars composed of treated fibers at different levels (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 wt.%) of lengths of 4 and 16 cm have been developed. These different mortars with and without fibers were subjected to mechanical (dry and wet compressive test, flexural test), physical (water absorption), mineralogical (XRD, FTIR), and microstructural (SEM/EDS) characterizations after 7 and 90 days. The results revealed that in general the incorporation of fibers improves the mechanical and physical properties of CEBs stabilized with 15 wt.% of alkali‐activated binder. Furthermore, the X‐ray diffraction analysis indicated that certain mineralogical phases of the raw materials dissolve during alkaline activation. The Fourier transform infrared spectra revealed the effectiveness of the fibers in sorption water molecules. Moreover, optical examination reveals that the binder utilized completely wraps the fibers. This demonstrates that the treated fibers function flawlessly as a filler in the matrix. At 90 days with the addition of 0.4 wt.% fibers, the maximum dry compressive strength and flexural strength values were 8.080.40 and 5.80.19 MPa, respectively. The stabilized earth bricks reinforced with 0.4 wt.% of palm fibers exhibited the mechanical properties values fitting the requirements of the materials candidate for the building construction applications especially as masonry bricks.
[1,2]‐Phospha‐Brook Rearrangement‐Initiated Palladium‐Catalyzed Cyclization Reaction of Isocyanides and o‐Bromobenzaldehydes: Access to 2H‐Isoindole‐1‐carboxamides and 2H‐Isoindole‐1‐carbonitriles
Authors: Wang Binbin , Gao Qiushan , Jiang Huanfeng , Wu Wanqing
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Herein, a [1,2]‐phospha‐Brook rearrangement‐initiated palladium‐catalyzed cyclization reaction for base‐controlled selective synthesis of 2H‐isoindole‐1‐carboxamide and 2H‐isoindole‐1‐carbonitrile derivatives has been described. This strategy features double isocyanide insertion, efficient bond combinations, simple operation and reaction conditions. Mechanistic studies show that the [1,2]‐phospha‐Brook rearrangement is the key step in this reaction. This protocol offers a novel and concise strategy for the synthesis of 2H‐isoindole derivatives.
Heart Failure Is Closely Associated With the Expression Characteristics of Type I Interferon‐Related Genes
Authors: Zhuo Jianfeng , Zhong Yan , Luo Xiaojuan , Qiu Sijie , Li Xinmei , Liang Yunyu , Wu Yu , Zhang Xiyu
Published: December 2024

Background

The association between the expression of type I interferon related genes (TIIRGs) and EFrHF is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the expression patterns of TIIRGs and EFrHF using bioinformatics analysis.

Materials and Methods

An analysis was conducted to examine the expression and distribution of TIIRGs in cardiomyocytes. Afterwards, GSE5406 was utilized as the validation set, including 16 without heart failure, 86 with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM), and 108 individuals with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). We conducted a comparative analysis of the variations in TIIRGs gene expression across various forms of heart failure.

Results

There were eight genes that showed substantial changes between patients with EFrHF and those without heart failure. A risk model for EFrHF was developed utilizing JAK1 and EIF2AK2, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.909. Five genes exhibited notable disparities between IDCM and ICM. Through multivariate analysis, it was shown that JAK1 and IFNA16/IFNA14 were identified as independent risk variables for distinguishing between the two pathogenic categories. The model, utilizing JAK1 and IFNA16/IFNA14, successfully differentiated between IDCM and ICM with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.722. In the validation set GSE5406, the expression of JAK1 was dramatically downregulated, while EIF2AK2 was significantly upregulated in heart failure (HF) tissues. The model utilizing JAK1 and EIF2AK2 successfully differentiated between those with an illness and those without (AUC = 0.877).

Conclusions

The expression of TIIRGs is strongly associated with the presence and specific subtypes of HF in a pathological context.
A Spatially Explicit Model of the Dynamics of Opisthorchis viverrini Spread
Authors: Trevisin Cristiano , Kamber Lars , Mari Lorenzo , Chitnis Nakul , Perez‐Saez Javier , Sayasone Somphou , Odermatt Peter , Gatto Marino , Rinaldo Andrea
Published: December 2024

Opisthorchis viverrini is a water‐based disease‐causing parasite whose public health implications are relevant in Southeast Asia. Untreated or chronic infections often lead to severe hepatobiliary morbidity including cholangiocarcinoma, a lethal bile duct cancer. The liver fluke O. viverrini can be contracted by consumption of raw fish, after which it settles in the small biliary ducts. The life cycle involves, besides freshwater snails in which asexual reproduction takes place, freshwater cyprinid fish as intermediate hosts. Piscivorous mammals, including humans, dogs and cats, are definitive hosts. Here, we propose a spatially explicit model for the transmission dynamics in realistic freshwater environments. Our model generalises existing local‐scale models by assimilating novel spreading mechanisms in space and time. Our study emphasises that spatial connectivity is key to shaping patterns of disease spread. Fish distribution and mobility through river corridors affect disease transmission routes. Our study provides baseline information on the role of connected freshwater bodies and their suitability for intermediate and final hosts. The distributions of fish catch and fish market supplies are also considered because they affect the spatiotemporal spread of opisthorchiasis. Adding a spatial component to transmission models fundamentally changes the description of epidemiological dynamics and the related scenarios of disease propagation through an improved description of the ecology of hosts, parasites and their transmission cycles. This work provides a more realistic description of the environment where infection cycles develop and spread than previous modelling attempts did, thus allowing a better characterisation of transmission routes and enabling a proper design of containment measures.
Regulatory Roles of Quercetin in Alleviating Fructose‐Induced Hepatic Steatosis: Targeting Gut Microbiota and Inflammatory Metabolites
Authors: Li Jinjun , Zhao Zhiqi , Deng Yixuan , Li Xinxin , Zhu Liying , Wang Xin , Li Li , Li Xiaoqiong
Published: December 2024

While fructose is a key dietary component, concerns have been raised about its potential risks to the liver. This study aimed to assess quercetin's protective effects against fructose‐induced mouse hepatic steatosis. Thirty‐two male C57BL/6J mice were randomly allocated into four groups: control, high fructose diet (HFrD), HFrD supplemented with low‐dose quercetin (HFrD+LQ), and HFrD supplemented with high‐dose quercetin (HFrD+HQ). Biochemical, pathological, immune, and metabolic parameters were assessed. Quercetin treatment significantly reduced liver fat percentages in mice on a high fructose diet, with the most notable reduction observed in the HFrD+HQ group. Histological examination confirmed this reduction, revealing diminished lipid droplets and decreased inflammation and steatosis in hepatocytes. Compared to the high fructose group, interleukin‐1 β and tumor necrosis factor alpha were significantly decreased, serum aspartate aminotransferase concentrations were markedly reduced, and blood high‐density lipoprotein concentrations were substantially elevated after quercetin intervention (p < 0.05). Total bilirubin and triglyceride levels, which were significantly altered following high fructose intervention and reversed after quercetin intervention. Following the administration of 100 mg/kg quercetin, the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was significantly reduced compared to the high fructose group. At the genus level, Erysipelotrichaceae_uncultured, Faecalibaculum, Odoribacter, and Allobaculum were significantly decreased (p < 0.05), Lacnospiraceae NK4A136 group, Parabacteroides, and Alloprevotella significantly increased (p < 0.05). However, the 50 mg/kg quercetin treatment only decreased the abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae_uncultured (p < 0.05). In addition, quercetin significantly enhanced the content of propionic acid and total acid (p < 0.05). Moreover, the intestinal flora showed a significant correlation with the hepatic health‐related phenotype in mice. Both 50 and 100 mg/kg quercetin treatments significantly mitigated liver fat deposition in mice with fructose‐induced hepatic steatosis. However, the higher dose of quercetin (100 mg/kg) demonstrated a more pronounced effect in reducing liver inflammation, likely due to its impact on gut microbiota regulation. This suggests quercetin's potential as a therapeutic agent for fructose‐related hepatic steatosis, emphasizing the importance of dose considerations.
Study protocol: A national cross‐sectional study on psychology and behavior investigation of Chinese residents in 2023
Authors: Liu Diyue , Fan Siyuan , Huang Xincheng , Gu Wenjing , Yin Yifan , Zhang Ziyi , Ma Baotong , Xia Ruitong , Lu Yuanwei , Liu Jingwen , Xin Hanjia , Cao Yumeng , Yang Saier , Li Runqing , Li Han , Zhao Ji , Zhang Jin , Gao Zheng , Zeng Yaxin , Ding Yixiao , Ren Zhuolun , Guan Yan , Zhang Na , Li Jia , Ma Yan , Wei Pei , Dong Jingjing , Zhou Yajing , Dong Yong , Qian Yan , Chen Chen , Zhao Yujie , Li Yimiao , Zheng Yujia , Chen Rongyi , Li Xiaomeng , Han Yuke , Xia Yaoyao , Xu Huixin , Wu Zhaolin , Wu Mingyou , Wu Xinrui , Hou Junyi , Cai Yuelai , Dai Xiaofan , Li Wenbo , Nie Ting , Zhang Chongzhe , Wang Xiaoya , Li Dan , Yan Siyao , Yi Zhiheng , Liu Chenxi , Zhang Xinyue , Shi Lei , Li Haomiao , Jiang Feng , Zhou Xiaoming , Sun Xinying , Wu Yibo ,   Psychology and Behavior Investigation of Chinese Residents project team
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This study protocol specifies the primary research line and theoretical framework of the 2023 Survey of the Psychology and Behavior of the Chinese Population. It aims to establish a consistent database of Chinese residents' psychological and behavioral surveys through multi‐center and large‐sample cross‐sectional surveys to provide robust data support for developing research in related fields. It will track the public's physical and psychological health more comprehensively and systematically.

Methods

The study was conducted from June 20, 2023 to August 31, 2023, using stratified and quota sampling methods. A total of 150 cities across 800 communities/villages were surveyed, selected from China (Despite extensive coordination, we have been unable to contact our counterparts in the Taiwan region of China to obtain relevant statistical data). The questionnaires were distributed to the public one‐on‐one and face‐to‐face by trained surveyors. The questionnaires included basic information about the individual, personal health status, basic information about the family, the social environment in which the individual lives, psychological condition scales, behavioral level scales, other scales, and attitudes towards topical social issues. Supervisors conducted quality control during the distribution process and returned questionnaires, logically checked and cleaned for data analysis.

Discussion

Data collection has been finished, and scientific outputs based on this data will support the development of health promotion strategies in China and globally. In the aftermath of the pandemic, it will guide policymakers and healthcare organizations to improve their existing policies and services to maximize the physical and mental health of the Chinese population.

Trial Registration

This study was filed in the National Health Security Information Platform (Record No.: MR‐37‐23‐017876) and officially registered in the China Clinical Trials Registry (Registration No.: ChiCTR2300072573).
Navigating the Bayes maze: The psychologist's guide to Bayesian statistics, a hands‐on tutorial with R code
Authors: Alter Udi , Too Miranda A. , Cribbie Robert A.
Published: December 2024

Bayesian statistics has gained substantial popularity in the social sciences, particularly in psychology. Despite its growing prominence in the psychological literature, many researchers remain unacquainted with Bayesian methods and their advantages. This tutorial addresses the needs of curious applied psychology researchers and introduces Bayesian analysis as an accessible and powerful tool. We begin by comparing Bayesian and frequentist approaches, redefining fundamental terms from both perspectives with practical illustrations. Our exploration of Bayesian statistics includes Bayes's Theorem, likelihood, prior and posterior distributions, various prior types, and Markov‐Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods, supplemented by graphical aids for clarity. To bridge theory and practice, we employ a psychological research example with real, open data. We analyse the data using both frequentist and Bayesian approaches, providing R code and comprehensive supporting information, and emphasising best practices for interpretation and reporting. We discuss and demonstrate how to interpret parameter estimates and credible intervals, among other essential topics. Throughout, we maintain an accessible and user‐friendly language, focusing on practical implications, intuitive examples, and actionable recommendations.
Secure Cluster Based Routing Scheme for Neuro‐Fuzzy Assisted MANET in 5G
Authors: Rathinakumar Perinbaraj , Khansadurai Asan Mohideen , Padmanaban Sickari , Ramya Rakkipalayam Sampath , Natraj Narambunathan Arunachalam
Published: December 2024

The Fifth Generation (5G) of wireless networks has increasingly focused significantly on energy‐saving methods for mobile communication systems. The objective of combining MANET with 5G communication is to achieve a high data throughout while simultaneously reducing latency and cost. The main issues with MANET are elevated energy use, security, and reduced longevity. The self‐configuring characteristics and dynamic architecture of MANET may lead to frequent changes in topology and resource allocation. This mobility results in frequent connection failures, which increase routing overheads and decrease data transmission dependability. A secured clustering technique is essential to enhance the routing performance and establish reliable routing. In MANET, the cluster mechanism is the prominent way to improve the network lifetime and routing mechanism. The proposed secure cluster routing‐based neuro‐fuzzy logic (SCR‐NFL) establishes a secure cluster mechanism via the use of the Trust value method. It guarantees cluster stability by taking into account node mobility and energy while selecting cluster heads. The important components in the proposed system are Mobility (M), Residual Energy Level (REL), and Trust Value (TV). The neural fuzzy logic system is implemented to handle the data uncertainty and make effective decisions during routing path selections. The proposed SCR‐NFL performance is measured in an NS‐2 simulation environment. The result is compared with the existing Improved Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm, Trust‐Based Secure Neuro Fuzzy Clustering mechanism and Mobility Aware Energy Efficient Clustering system using Particle Swarm Optimization mechanism. The performance parameters for comparison are packet delivery ratio, average number of clusters, end‐to‐end delay, average number of cluster instances, mobility speed and mobility distance.
Folinic acid as a treatment for autism in children: A within‐subjects open‐label study on safety and efficacy
Authors: Wong Chui Mae , Tan Charmain Samantha , Koh Hwan Cui , Gan Xinyi , Hie Szu Liang , Saffari Seyed Ehsan , Yeo Joo Guan , Lam Joyce Ching Mei
Published: December 2024

The folate cycle has been implicated in the pathophysiology of autism due to its role in the glutathione oxidative stress pathway, amino acid and DNA methylation reactions, and neurotransmitter synthesis pathway. Previous research on folinic acid supplementation in autistic children has suggested potential benefits. The primary aim of this pilot study was to determine the safety, feasibility and efficacy of oral folinic acid in improving communication and behaviour in autistic children. Ten autistic children were recruited into an open‐label pre‐post treatment within‐subjects design study. At T = 0, 12 and 24 weeks, participants underwent safety evaluations, standardized assessments of language, autism symptoms, adaptive skills and global illness severity, and eye‐gaze tracking. During the control period (0–12 weeks), participants continued with standard care. In the treatment period (12–24 weeks), participants took oral folinic acid at 2 mg/kg/day. All 10 children (nine boys, one girl; aged 4–8 years), successfully consumed oral folinic acid supplements with no adverse events. There was a reduction in Pervasive Developmental Disorder Behavior Inventory (PDDBI) Autism Composite T‐score with treatment (mean [SD] T‐score 49.2 [8.89] pre‐treatment, 44.6 [6.19] post‐treatment, p = 0.103). Although this difference was not statistically significant due to the small sample size, the effect size was medium‐large, indicating that, as a group, there were clinically meaningful changes in PDDBI T‐scores. There were also trends towards gains in communication scores and overall Clinical Global Impression scores. Folinic acid is a safe and feasible potential treatment for autism, and results from this pilot justify the need for a larger placebo‐controlled trial.
AMPK Activates Cellulase Secretion in Penicillium funiculosum by Downregulating P‐HOG1 MAPK Levels
Authors: Randhawa Anmoldeep , Sinha Tulika , Das Maitreyee , Yazdani Syed Shams
Published: December 2024

Cellulase production for hydrolyzing plant cell walls is energy‐intensive in filamentous fungi during nutrient scarcity. AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), encoded by snf1, is known to be the nutrient and energy sensor in eukaryotes. Previous studies on AMPK identified its role in alternate carbon utilization in pathogenic fungi. However, the precise role of AMPK in cellulase production remains elusive. In the present study, we employed gene‐deletion analysis, quantitative proteomics and chemical‐genetic approaches to investigate the role of AMPK in cellulase synthesis in Penicillium funiculosum. Gene‐deletion analysis revealed that AMPK does not promote transcription and translation but is essential for cellulase secretion in a calcium‐dependent manner. Proteomic analysis of the snf1‐deleted (Δsnf1) strain confirmed trapped cellulase inside the mycelia and identified HOG1 MAPK activation as the most significant Ca2+‐induced signaling event during carbon stress in Δsnf1. Western blot analysis analysis revealed that the phosphorylated HOG1 (P‐HOG1)/HOG1 MAPK ratio maintained by Ca2+‐signaling/Ca2+‐activated AMPK, respectively, forms a secretion checkpoint for cellulases, and disturbing this equilibrium blocks cellulase secretion. The proteomic analysis also indicated a massive increase in mTORC1‐activated anabolic pathways during carbon stress in Δsnf1. Our study suggests that AMPK maintains homeostasis by acting as a global repressor during carbon stress.
Association between timing of maternal energy consumption and adiposity in breastfeeding infants: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Yaprak Deniz , Mısırlıgil Mina , Ünsal Nüket , Balamtekin Necati , Saygılı Karagöl Belma , Dumlupınar Ebru
Published: December 2024

Background

Lactating women's food intake timing may play a critical role in maternal and infant nutrition health. We aimed to examine associations of breastfeeding mothers' diet quantity and circadian timing of food intake with subsequent weight status of exclusively breastfed infants over a 6‐month period.

Methods

This prospective observational study comprised pairs of healthy singleton breastfed infants and their corresponding healthy lactating mothers. Reported food intake times and diet content were used to define maternal eating patterns infant body mass index‐for‐age z scores (BAZs) at birth, 2 and 6 months. Association of maternal eating pattern with alterations in infant BAZ gain and nutritional status at age 6 months were investigated in multiple regression analyses.

Results

Compared with maternal daytime eating, maternal nighttime eating was linked to a greater increase in infantile BAZ from ages 2 to 6 months (adjusted β = 0.49; 95% CI, 0.05–0.92; P = 0.03) and a heightened likelihood of being overweight at age 6 months (adjusted odds ratio = 3.81; 95% CI, 1.41–6.63; P = 0.01) after adjusting for factors including maternal age, education level, household income, parity, pregestational body mass index, BAZ at 2 months, total daily energy consumption, and the percentages of energy derived from macronutrients.

Conclusion

Disruption of rhythmic physiology from irregular eating habits can lead to circadian misalignment, which may result in abnormal weight gain in infants and an increased likelihood of being overweight in the early postnatal period. Circadian alignment is fundamental for regulating women‐infant dyads health.
Prevalence and sequelae of asymptomatic Clostridioides difficile colonization in children with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Reasoner Seth A. , Zhang Lisa S. , Bernard Rachel , Edwards Kathryn M. , Nicholson Maribeth R.
Published: December 2024

Colonization by Clostridioides difficile is common in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and complicates both the management of IBD and the diagnosis of C. difficile infection (CDI). There is a paucity of data on rates, risk factors, and outcomes associated with asymptomatic C. difficile colonization in children with IBD. We enrolled and prospectively followed 87 children with IBD without acute gastrointestinal symptoms. Twelve patients (13.8%) tested positive for C. difficile and were considered to have asymptomatic colonization. Elevated white blood cell count was associated with C. difficile colonization based on univariate regression. Three of the 12 (25%) C. difficile colonized patients were diagnosed with CDI in the 90 days following screening for C. difficile, versus 0 of the 75 who tested negative for C. difficile (p = 0.002). This data set the stage for further longitudinal tracking of children with IBD for C. difficile colonization and associated outcomes.
Determining the time to cholangiocarcinoma in pediatric‐onset PSC‐IBD
Authors: Kaj‐Carbaidwala Batul , Fevery Johan , Adler Douglas G. , Bergquist Annika , de Ridder Lissy , Deneau Mark , Gower‐Rousseau Corinne , Chapman Roger W. , Lynch Kate D. , Stedman Catherine A. M. , Wilson David C. , Shah Uzma , Goyal Lipika , Winter Harland S. , Lennerz Jochen K.
Published: December 2024

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma. When a child is diagnosed with both PSC and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), evidence‐based information on counseling families and risk management of developing cholangiocarcinoma is limited. In this case series (PubMed/collaborators), we included patients with PSC‐IBD who developed cholangiocarcinoma and contacted authors to determine an event curve specifying the time between the second diagnosis (IBD or PSC) and a diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma. Review of n = 175 studies resulted in a cohort of n = 21 patients with pediatric‐onset PSC‐IBD‐cholangiocarcinoma. The median time to development of cholangiocarcinoma was 6.95 years from the second diagnosis. Despite the small number, 38% of cholangiocarcinoma developed within the first 2 years, and 47% of patients developed cholangiocarcinoma in the transition period to adult care (age 14–25). Our findings highlight the importance of screening that extends over the so‐called transition period from pediatric to adult care.
Long‐Term Quality of Life and Survivorship Priorities in Esophageal Cancer Patients: A Survey‐Based Assessment
Authors: Joseph Edward A. , Allen Casey J.
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

This study examines the long‐term quality of life (QOL) and priorities of survivors who underwent management for esophageal cancer (EC).

Methods

We cross‐sectionally surveyed EC patients through online support groups to assess the relative importance of their overall survival, experience, costs of care, and QOL. Kendall's co‐efficient of Concordance (W) was utilized to assess agreement among respondents.

Results

Among 100 respondents (age 57.2 ± 10.4 years, 54% male, 90% Caucasian), median overall survival was 18.0 (7.8–49.8) months, with a maximum survivorship of 48.3 years. Respondents ranked overall survival most important, followed by functional independence, emotional well‐being, treatment experience, and costs of care (W = 0.342, p < 0.001). Some survivors ranked treatment experience (4%) or costs (6%) as their most important priority. The cohort's physical QOL (P‐QOL; 39.79 ± 10.16) and mental QOL (M‐QOL; 42.29 ± 15.43) were below that of the general population (50.00 ± 10.00); both p < 0.050. There was no difference in P‐QOL and M‐QOL based on the presence of metastatic disease (both p > 0.050). Patients who underwent curative surgery had superior M‐QOL (45.00 ± 15.22 vs. 36.70 ± 14.53, p = 0.010). Although P‐QOL was similar based on duration of survival (40.30 ± 9.75 [< 1 year], 39.33 ± 10.52 [1–5 years], 39.81 ± 10.68 [> 5 years], p = 0.873), M‐QOL was higher in patients with extended survivorship (36.87 ± 14.24 [< 1 year], 45.05 ± 14.94 [1–5 years], 47.30 ± 16.36 [> 5 years], p = 0.008).

Conclusions

Despite enduring physical health impairments, a majority of EC survivors prioritized their survival. However, a few survivors prioritized costs and treatment experience, underscoring the importance of tailoring treatments to ensure alignment with individual patient‐driven priorities.
Bone morphogenetic proteins, DNA methylation, and gut microbiota interaction in lumbar disc degeneration: A multi‐omics Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Xiang‐Yu , Wang Peng‐Yun , Wang Qi‐Jun , Wang Dong‐Fan , Wang Shuai‐Kang , Wang Yu , Zhu Wei‐Guo , Wang Wei , Kong Chao , Lu Shi‐Bao , Chen Xiao‐Long
Published: December 2024

Background

Lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) is a ubiquitous finding in low back pain. Many different etiology factors may explain the LDD process, such as bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), DNA methylation, and gut microbiota. Until recently the mechanisms underlying the LDD process have been elusive.

Methods

BMP‐related genes were extracted from the GeneCards database. The LDD transcriptome dataset was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus. We used linear regression and meta‐analysis to screen and integrate the differentially expressed genes associated with BMPs in LDD. Genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) of LDD were from FinnGen and UKBB. The expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) and DNA methylation quantitative trait loci from the blood were identified via the summary data‐based Mendelian randomization (SMR) method, and the possible blood BMP genes and their regulatory elements associated with the risk of LDD were prioritized. Intestinal eQTLs and fecal microbial QTLs (mbQTLs) were integrated, and the potential interactions between BMP gene expression in host intestinal tissue and the gut microbiota were revealed through SMR and colocalization analysis. The GWAS catalog (GCST90246169) was used to validate SMR results.

Results

A meta‐analysis of five datasets revealed that 113 BMP genes were differentially expressed between LDD and control tissues. Seven genes were selected as candidate pathogenic genes of LDD via the three‐step SMR method: CREB1, BMP6, PTCH1, GLI1, MEG3, GALNS, and NF1. SMR analysis also revealed five possible gut genes: HFE, MET, MAPK3, NPC1, and GDF5. The correlation between the gut microbiota and BMP gene expression in intestinal tissues was verified by eQTL‐mbQTL colocalization.

Conclusion

This multi‐omics study revealed that the BMP genes associated with LDD are regulated by DNA methylation. There are genetic differences between gut gene expression and the gut microbiota. These findings provide evidence for new therapeutic targets in the future.
Longitudinal associations of lipid profiles with sleep disorders in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ye Meijie , Ji Qianqian , Liu Qi , Kang Xiaoying , Zhan Yiqiang
Published: December 2024

To examine the associations of apolipoprotein E (APOE) carrier status and lipid profiles with sleep disorders, including excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and probable rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (pRBD), among patients with early Parkinson's disease (PD) over 5‐year follow‐up periods. The Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative is a multicenter cohort study based on an ongoing and open‐ended registry. Data from baseline and 5‐year follow‐up visits from participants of de novo PD were analyzed. Longitudinal associations of APOE carrier status and lipid profiles with sleep disorders were estimated via linear mixed‐effects models. A total of 657 participants with complete APOE genotypes were enrolled at baseline. Among them, 153 (25.3%) had available lipid profiles at baseline. In the linear mixed‐effects models, baseline APOE ε2/ε3/ε4 carrier status did not exhibit significant associations with EDS and pRBD (all p > 0.05) in all models. However, reduced high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) and elevated triglycerides (TG) were associated with developing EDS (β = −0.04, 95% CI: −0.07, −0.00) and pRBD (β = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.00, 0.02) in PD patients, respectively. In the APOE ε4+ subgroup, decreased HDL and increased TG displayed substantial associations with developing EDS and sleep disorders (all p < 0.05) in all models, respectively, whereas no significant differences were noted in the APOE ε4− subgroup (all p > 0.05). Our study did not demonstrate a clear association between APOE ε2/ε3/ε4 and sleep disorders in PD patients. However, the presence of APOE ε4 was associated with changes in lipid profiles, notably affecting TG and HDL levels.