bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trem2 acts as a non‐classical receptor of interleukin‐4 to promote diabetic wound healing
Authors: Zhu Xinlin , Zhang Chao , Jiang Weiwei , Zeng Zhaoxiang , Zhang Keming , Du Mingwei , Chen Juan , Wu Qian , Liao Wanqing , Chen Youming , Fang Wenjie , Pan Weihua
Published: October 2024

Background

The immunoglobulin superfamily protein Trem2 (triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2) is primarily expressed on myeloid cells where it functions to regulate macrophage‐related immune response induction. While macrophages are essential mediators of diabetic wound healing, the specific regulatory role that Trem2 plays in this setting remains to be established.

Objective

This study was developed to explore the potential importance of Trem2 signalling in diabetic wound healing and to clarify the underlying mechanisms through which it functions.

Methods and results

Following wound induction, diabetic model mice exhibited pronounced upregulation of Trem2 expression, which was primarily evident in macrophages. No cutaneous defects were evident in mice bearing a macrophage‐specific knockout of Trem2 (T2‐cKO), but they induced more pronounced inflammatory responses and failed to effectively repair cutaneous wounds, with lower levels of neovascularization, slower rates of wound closure, decreased collagen deposition following wounding. Mechanistically, we showed that interleukin (IL)‐4 binds directly to Trem2, inactivating MAPK/AP‐1 signalling to suppress the expression of inflammatory and chemoattractant factors. Co‐culture of fibroblasts and macrophages showed that macrophages from T2‐cKO mice suppressed the in vitro activation and proliferation of dermal fibroblasts through upregulation of leukaemia inhibitory factor (Lif). Injecting soluble Trem2 in vivo was also sufficient to significantly curtail inflammatory responses and to promote diabetic wound healing.

Conclusions

These analyses offer novel insight into the role of IL‐4/Trem2 signalling as a mediator of myeloid cell‐fibroblast crosstalk that may represent a viable therapeutic target for efforts to enhance diabetic wound healing.
Feasibility of LoRa‐based Infrastructure‐to‐Vehicle (I2V) communication for road weather information systems
Authors: Soy Hakkı , Fatih Ateş T. , Osman Özkan A.
Published: October 2024

A road‐weather information system (RWIS) is an attractive application in the context of intelligent transportation systems (ITSs), which is used where climatic conditions and meteorological events worsen traffic safety. The primary goal is to significantly reduce potential accidents by sending early warning messages to prompt immediate action. For this purpose, road weather information stations are placed at critical points on the highways. In addition to responsible transportation agencies, enabling direct warning message transfer from roadside infrastructure to vehicles can significantly improve the effectiveness of a typical RWIS application. Dedicated short range communication (DSRC) and cellular vehicle to everything (C‐V2X) technologies are extensively used for data exchange between vehicles (V2V) and between vehicles and road infrastructure (V2I or I2V) under the umbrella term of vehicle‐to‐everything (V2X) communications. Latency and coverage are key performance indicators of the vehicular network that determine how drivers react to risks in adverse road and weather conditions. V2X‐based connectivity mainly aims to offer low latency in message delivery, but it is not possible to obtain a wide‐range coverage due to significant propagation loss in the dedicated 5.9 GHz ITS frequency band. In this study, we presented a long range (LoRa)‐based RWIS application that uses I2 V communication at sub‐GHz bands. Our main contribution is proposing a novel method for RWIS implementations, where the LoRa gateways run in a half‐duplex way to collect information from road weather information stations in the uplink channel and then broadcast warning messages to vehicles in the downlink channel. To validate the applicability of the proposed method, we presented a feasibility study that includes transmission range and latency analysis. Our theoretical calculations' results validate the more extended transmission range and applicability of LoRa connectivity on RWIS applications, especially for common scenarios like black ice where the climate risks do not occur suddenly. We also showed that our methodology would be beneficial due to the ability to offer wide coverage, especially in the areas where cellular base stations have not yet existed or V2X road infrastructure has not yet been established.
Response of Species Diversity and Stability of Typical Steppe Plant Communities on the Mongolian Plateau to Different Grazing Patterns
Authors: Gao Suriguga , Hong Yu , Tuya Wulan , Zhang Weiqing , An Chang , Chaoketu Siqin , Sha Xu , He Bu , Yinga Wu
Published: October 2024

Grasslands represent a major biome on Earth and play a vital role in ecosystem functioning and dynamics. However, owing to the variations among grassland types, the impact of grazing on plant community diversity and stability remains unclear. This study is based on the typical steppe of the Mongolian Plateau. Field sampling and data analysis were combined to qualitatively and quantitatively investigate the structural characteristics, species diversity, and stability of plant communities under varying grazing intensities, that is, four‐season nomadic, two‐season rotational, and sedentary grazing (FSNG, TSRG, and SG, respectively). The results indicated that FSNG pastures exhibited the largest number of plant species while FSNG and TSRG pastures exhibited relatively high importance values for the primary dominant species. Carex duriuscula, Chenopodium glaucum, and Cleistogenes squarrosa were prominent in SG pastures, with C. duriuscula having the largest importance value. The mean height, cover, and aboveground biomass of plant communities in FSNG were significantly higher than those in SG (p < 0.05), with no significant difference observed between FSNG and TSRG. FSNG also demonstrated the highest Shannon–Wiener, Simpson, and Pielou indexes. The Shannon–Wiener and Simpson indexes between the FSNG, TSRG, and SG pastures showed significant differences (p < 0.05). Nomadic plant communities displayed positive loosely interspecific traits, suggesting independence and positive succession. Conversely, communities in TSRG and SG exhibited negative correlations and higher instability. The stability analysis ranked community stability as FSNG > TSRG > SG, suggesting that judicious grazing practices could enhance grassland stability. The findings reveal that grazing patterns influence plant community composition and function and that FSNG pastures promote higher species diversity, perennial dominance, and overall stability compared with TSRG and SG pastures.
The Functional Dilemma of Nectar Mimic Staminodes in Parnassia wightiana (Celastraceae): Attracting Pollinators and Florivorous Beetles
Authors: Wen Shi‐Jia , Chen Shan , Rech Andre Rodrigo , Ji Ling , Wang Hong , Wang Zhiyong , Wu Ding , Ren Zong‐Xin
Published: October 2024

While floral signaling plays a central role in the reproductive success of all animal‐pollinated plants, it may also attract herbivores eager to feed on flowers. False nectaries with glossy surfaces reflecting incident light may produce signals that attract floral visitors guiding their movements to and within the flower. Whether false nectaries also attract herbivores that lower the reproductive success of natural populations requires attention. In this study, we focus on Parnassia wightiana, a subalpine species with a whorl of staminodes that act as false nectaries attracting bees, flies, and herbivorous beetles. We tested the functions of staminodes using controlled manipulative experiments under field and lab conditions. We found a significant decrease in pollinator visits, and subsequent seed set, in flowers in which we removed staminodes or staminode apices confirming the function of these organs. In our natural populations, we found that a beetle, Nonarthra variabilis (Alticinae; Chrysomelidae), chews first on staminode apices, then it eats the entire staminodes and other flower parts, but rarely feeds on ovaries. Additional experiments suggested these beetles preferred staminodes to ovaries. Our results suggest this is a case of selective florivory, in which staminodes play a dual role, attracting pollinators and herbivores at the same time causing the attractive dilemma. Although selective florivory by beetles did not directly damage fruits, it influenced plant‐pollinator interactions, decreasing reproductive success in plant populations. Our study highlights the importance of plant‐pollinator‐herbivore interactions in selecting floral traits.
Climate and topography control variation in the tropical dry forest–rainforest ecotone
Authors: Walter Jonathan A. , Atkins Jeff W. , Hulshof Catherine M.
Published: October 2024

Ecotones are the transition zones between ecosystems and can exhibit steep gradients in ecosystem properties controlling flows of energy and organisms between them. Ecotones are understood to be sensitive to climate and environmental changes, but the potential for spatiotemporal dynamics of ecotones to act as indicators of such changes is limited by methodological and logistical constraints. Here, we use a novel combination of satellite remote sensing and analyses of spatial synchrony to identify the tropical dry forest–rainforest ecotone in Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica. We further examine how climate and topography influence the spatiotemporal dynamics of the ecotone, showing that ecotone is most prevalent at mid‐elevations where the topography leads to moisture accumulation and that climatic moisture availability influences up and downslope interannual variation in ecotone location. We found some evidence for long‐term (22 year) trends toward upslope or downslope ecotone shifts, but stronger evidence that regional climate mediates topographic controls on ecotone properties. Our findings suggest the ecotone boundary on the dry forest side may be less resilient to future precipitation reductions and that if drought frequency increases, ecotone reductions are more likely to occur along the dry forest boundary.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Reductive Cross‐Coupling of α–Trifluoromethylated Alkyl Electrophiles and Allylic Sulfones
Authors: Xu Qiao‐Lin , Zhao Yi , Liu Xia‐Ling , Jin Na , He Ke‐Han , Pan Fei
Published: October 2024

Fluorinated motifs are commonly found in drugs and agrochemicals. The inclusion of fluorine‐containing motifs in drug candidates during lead optimization has become a valuable strategy in pharmaceutical research and development. Significant research efforts have been dedicated to synthesizing molecules with a trifluoromethyl (CF3−) group on a stereogenic carbon. Herein, we disclose a mild and efficient nickel‐catalyzed reductive cross‐coupling between α–trifluoromethyl alkyl bromides and allylic sulfones, enabling the efficient synthesis of α–trifluoromethyl homoallylic alkanes. This reaction featuring base‐free, mild conditions, a broad substrate scope, and high functional group tolerance. The synthetic versatility of this approach is further underscored by its successful application in the late‐stage functionalization of a range of drug molecules. Our preliminary mechanistic study suggests that this allylation process operates through a radical intermediate.
Impact of Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles on In Vitro Development of a Mouse Preimplantation Embryo and Interaction With the Zona Pellucida
Authors: Karmenyan Artashes V. , Krivokharchenko Alexander S. , Sarmiento Micahella N. , Barus Eviyona L. , Perevedentseva Elena V. , Cheng Chia‐Liang
Published: October 2024

The development of assisted reproductive technologies increases the likelihood of nanoparticles' (NPs) direct contact with gametes and embryos in in vitro conditions. Analyzing the influence of nanomaterials on the early mammalian embryo becomes increasingly relevant. This work is devoted to the effect of graphene oxide (GO) NPs on the in vitro development of mammalian embryos. Mouse 2‐cell embryos were preincubated with GO NPs. The interaction of GO with the Zona Pellucida (ZP) of the embryo was investigated using fluorescence lifetime imaging with two‐photon excitation (2p‐FLIM). During embryo development, the NPs penetration into ZP (blastocyst stage) and perivitelline space (blastocyst hatching stage) was observed. Despite this, GO did not affect the embryo's ability to develop till late and hatching blastocysts. The mechanism of the NPs getting into the perivitelline space and the consequences of NP–embryo direct contact are discussed. The 2p‐FLIM efficiency for studying NP interaction with mammalian embryos is evaluated.
Theoretical design of new ligands to boost reaction rate and selectivity in palladium‐catalyzed aromatic fluorination
Authors: Pliego Josefredo R.
Published: October 2024

The development of palladium‐catalyzed fluorination with biaryl monophosphine ligands has faced two important problems that limit its application for bromoarenes: the formation of regioisomers and insufficient catalysis for heteroaryl substrates as bromothiophene derivatives. Overcoming these problems requires more ligand design. In this work, reliable theoretical calculations were used to elucidate important ligand features necessary for achieving more rate acceleration and selectivity. These features include increasing the ligand‐substrate repulsion and creating a negative charge in the space around the fluoride ion bonded to the palladium. The investigated L5 ligand presents these features, and the calculations predict that this ligand completely suppresses the regioisomer formation in the difficult case of 4‐bromoanisole. In addition, the free energy barriers are decreased by 2–3 kcal mol−1 in comparison with the catalysis involving the AlPhos ligand. Thus, the present study points out a direction for new developments in palladium‐catalyzed fluorination.
Improving Healthcare in South Texas Rural Communities: An Interprofessional Initiative for Primary Care Dental and Medical Residents
Authors: Marwaha Rochisha S. , Kaur Noorpreet , Dhar Sohini , Challa Suman
Published: October 2024

Objective

To enhance primary care dentistry and medicine residents’ didactic knowledge, communication skills to address patient's healthcare needs, and collaboration among healthcare professionals, while increasing confidence in integrating primary care skills into their clinical practice.

Methods

An Interprofessional Education workshop was organized to enhance didactic knowledge and learning of 42 primary care dentistry (PCD) and family and community medicine (FCM) residents on topics including addressing facial and dental trauma in adults, managing patients with alcohol use and abuse, pain control and prescription opioid use in dentistry, and opioid use disorder and treatment. An online survey was administered before and after the workshop to assess changes in knowledge, confidence, and future intentions to incorporate targeted primary care skills learned during the workshop into clinical practice and to elicit residents’ perceptions of workshop quality. Overall scale means were assessed by chi‐square tests for knowledge scales and analysis of variance for confidence and career intentions scales, significance levels were set at 0.05.

Results

Pre‐workshop assessments were completed by all attendees while post assessments received a response rate of 83.3%. Both PCD and FCM residents reported an increase in their knowledge (p < 0.05) and confidence (p < 0.05) in providing care for patients with facial/dental trauma, identifying signs of opioid abuse, addressing alcohol abuse, and understanding the referral processes following the workshop. While an overall increase was noted regarding intentions to incorporate skills learned during the workshop into practice by the PCD (pre‐course = 4.33, post‐course = 4.42) and FCM (pre‐course = 4.55, post‐course = 4.73) residents, the differences were not statistically significant differences.

Conclusions

The interprofessional education workshop for PCD and FCM residents enhanced their knowledge, confidence, and future intentions to incorporate primary care skills into clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.
GaCl3‐Catalyzed [3 + 2]‐Cycloaddition/Esterification Cascade of Donor–Acceptor Cyclopropanes With Salicylaldehydes for the Synthesis of Tetrahydro‐4H‐Furo[3,2‐c]Chromen‐4‐Ones
Authors: Liu Zhiping , Pang Jie , Che Lijie , Gan Chunfang , Cui Jianguo , Huang Yanmin
Published: October 2024

A GaCl3‐catalyzed [3 + 2]‐cycloaddition/intramolecular esterification cascade of donor–acceptor cyclopropane‐1,1‐diesters with salicylaldehydes has been reported. A wide range of tetrahydro‐4H‐furo[3,2‐c]chromen‐4‐ones have been efficiently delivered in moderate to good yields. Mechanistic studies suggest that the reaction involves the [3 + 2]‐cycloaddition followed by intramolecular esterification to access 4H‐furo[3,2‐c]chromenones.
Preconcentration of Cinnamic Acid Derivatives in Traditional Chinese Medicines by an Effective Dispersive Liquid‐Liquid Microextraction Based on a Hydrophobic Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Li Qian , Wang Li‐mei , Zhang Shu‐mei , Zhang Guang‐bin , Hu Shuang
Published: October 2024

A dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction based on hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent (hDES) was developed for the extraction and quantification of four cinnamic acid derivatives in traditional Chinese medicines coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet detection. In this method, a hDES (tetrabutylammonium chloride‐hexanoic acid, molar ratio of 1:2) was prepared as the extractant. It only took 15 s to handle multiple samples simultaneously by hand‐assisted dispersion. The use of a narrow‐bore tube reduced the amount of the hydrophobic extractant with easier recovery. The approach was influenced by several key parameters, including the composition and consumption of the DES, sample phase pH, salt amount, extraction time, and centrifugation time, all of which had been investigated and optimized. Moreover, the formation of the DES was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. Under the optimal conditions, enrichment factors of the target analytes ranged from 135 to 220. Satisfactory linearities (r ≥ 0.9977), detection limits (0.2–0.4 ng/mL), precision (<8.5%), and accuracy (recoveries: 90.0%–104.6%) were obtained. The method has been successfully applied to the simultaneous extraction and preconcentration of four cinnamic acid derivatives in Chinese medicinal samples with rapidness, high efficiency, and convenience.
Unraveling the Nexus Between Environmental Presence and Customer Satisfaction: A Cross‐Cultural Analysis of Online Reviews of Eco‐Friendly Accommodations
Authors: Moreno‐Brito Yahaira Lisbeth , Wang Jue , Kim Hak‐Seon
Published: October 2024

This study explores the ecological presence and awareness of eco‐hotel satisfaction. 7471 reviews from Ecuador and Indonesia eco‐hotels were analyzed based on mathematical equations and Linguistic Inquiry Word Count (LIWC). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression analysis depicted differences in environmental awareness and satisfaction across cultures. The findings indicate that word count, perception, and green depth significantly impact satisfaction in Ecuador, while authenticity, perception, depth, and presence influence that in Indonesia. Furthermore, Indonesian customers had a higher understanding of eco‐friendly practices, but Ecuador reported higher overall satisfaction. These cultural differences provide valuable insights into the hospitality industry to enhance the guest experience at eco‐friendly accommodations.
Photonic Neuromorphic Processing with On‐Chip Electrically‐Driven Microring Spiking Neuron
Authors: Xiang Jinlong , Zhao Yaotian , He An , Xiao Jie , Su Yikai , Guo Xuhan
Published: October 2024

Guided by brain‐like temporal processing and event‐driven manner, neuromorphic computing has emerged as a competitive paradigm to realize artificial intelligence with high energy efficiency. Silicon photonics offers an ideal hardware platform with mutual foundry fabrication process and well‐developed device libraries, however, its huge potential to build integrated neuromorphic systems is significantly hindered due to the lack of scalable on‐chip photonic spiking neurons. Here, the first integrated electrically‐driven spiking neuron based on a silicon microring under the carrier injection working mode is reported, which is capable of emulating fundamental neural dynamics including excitability threshold, temporal integration, refractory period, controllable spike inhibition, and precise time encoding at a speed of 250 MHz. By programming time‐multiplexed spike representations, photonic spiking convolution is experimentally realized for image edge feature detection. Besides, a spiking convolutional neural network is constructed by combining photonic convolutional layers with a software‐implemented fully‐connected layer, which yields a classification accuracy of 94.1% on the benchmark Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology database. Moreover, it is theoretically verified that it's promising to further improve the operation speed to a gigahertz level by developing an electro‐optical co‐simulation model. The proposed microring neuron constitutes the final building block of scalable spike activation, thus representing a great breakthrough to boost the development of on‐chip neuromorphic information processing.
Catalytic Installation of Primary Amines Onto Polyolefins for Oligomer Valorization
Authors: Scott Sabrina S. , Zeng Yimin , Wright Taylor , Wolf Michael O. , Schafer Laurel L.
Published: October 2024

Polymerization of primary amine‐containing monomers is challenging because the amine inhibits polymerization catalyst activity. An alternative approach to access primary amine functionalized polymers is postpolymerization modification. To this end, the hydroaminoalkylation of vinyl‐terminated polyolefins with N‐(trimethylsilyl)benzylamine is used to prepare primary amine‐terminated polyolefins, with the free primary amine substituent being revealed upon hydrolytic work up. These materials are spectroscopically characterized, and an investigation of thermal properties by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis is completed. These results show that the primary amine substituent increases the glass transition temperature and improves thermal stability. The reactive primary amine functionality is used in the photo‐oxidative dimerization of polyolefins to demonstrate how this elusive functionality can be applied in oligomer valorization.
Protein posttranslational modifications in metabolic diseases: basic concepts and targeted therapies
Authors: Yang Yunuo , Wu Jiaxuan , Zhou Wenjun , Ji Guang , Dang Yanqi
Published: October 2024

Metabolism‐related diseases, including diabetes mellitus, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, are becoming increasingly prevalent, thereby posing significant threats to human health and longevity. Proteins, as the primary mediators of biological activities, undergo various posttranslational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation, ubiquitination, acetylation, methylation, and SUMOylation, among others, which substantially diversify their functions. These modifications are crucial in the physiological and pathological processes associated with metabolic disorders. Despite advancements in the field, there remains a deficiency in contemporary summaries addressing how these modifications influence processes of metabolic disease. This review aims to systematically elucidate the mechanisms through which PTM of proteins impact the progression of metabolic diseases, including diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Additionally, the limitations of the current body of research are critically assessed. Leveraging PTMs of proteins provides novel insights and therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders. Numerous drugs designed to target these modifications are currently in preclinical or clinical trials. This review also provides a comprehensive summary. By elucidating the intricate interplay between PTMs and metabolic pathways, this study advances understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic dysfunction, thereby facilitating the development of more precise and effective disease management strategies.
A 220 GHz GaN‐based monolithic integrated frequency doubler delivering over 0.25 W output power
Authors: Zheng Yiyuan , Zhang Kai , Dai Kunpeng , Guo Huaixin , Qian Jun , Kong Yuechan , Chen Tangsheng
Published: October 2024

A 220 GHz GaN‐based monolithic integrated frequency doubler with high continuous‐wave output power has been developed. The doubler achieves improved heat dissipation by establishing the terahertz (THz) monolithic integrated circuit topology with GaN Schottky barrier diodes integrated on a high thermal conductivity SiC substrate. It features six anodes to enhance the power‐handling capabilities. A refractory Schottky metal stack is adopted for better thermal stability. The doubler realizes satisfactory performance by introducing the suspended microstrip and an all‐in‐one output structure. For verification, a prototype of the proposed frequency doubler was fabricated and tested. Measured results show that the proposed doubler produces a continuous‐wave output power of 255 mW at 220 GHz with an efficiency of 14.6%, exhibiting excellent potential for powerful THz sources.
A wideband transmitarray antenna based on polarization conversion metasurface with 2‐bit phase compensation
Authors: Zhang Hanmin , Fu Zi‐Hao , Yang Xue‐Song
Published: October 2024

A wideband transmitarray antenna (TA) incorporating a polarization conversion metasurface (PCM) is proposed. Four PCM elements with annular metallic polarizers are utilized to provide 2‐bit phase compensation without altering the geometric parameters of the elements, resulting in a wideband TA with a bandwidth comparable to that of the individual elements. A prototype of the proposed TA is designed, fabricated, and measured. The measured 1‐ and 3‐dB gain bandwidths of the proposed TA are found to be 10–13.6 GHz (30%) and 9.2–15 GHz (48.3%), respectively, while the effective 1‐dB transmission band of the individual elements is 7.8–14.6 GHz. The similarity between the bandwidth of the proposed TA and that of elements used in our design demonstrates less wastage of element bandwidth by the proposed approach. A measured peak gain of 27.2 dBi and a peak aperture efficiency (AE) of 48.7% highlight the promising potential of the proposed TA for long‐distance communication, point‐to‐point communication, and other applications.
Comparison of diagnostic accuracy of the SARC‐F, SARC‐CalF, and Ishii tests for diagnosis of sarcopenia in hospitalized older patients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yalcin Ahmet , Gokce Busra , Turhan Gorkem , Atmis Volkan , Gumuscubuk Oguzcan , Varli Murat
Published: October 2024

Background

Several screening tools have been developed to identify sarcopenia. However, data on the use of these screening tools in hospital settings are limited. This study assessed the diagnostic accuracy of three screening methods—strength, assistance walking, rising from a chair, climbing stairs, and falls (SARC‐F); SARC‐F combined with calf circumference (SARC‐CalF); and the Ishii tests—for detecting sarcopenia in older individuals who are hospitalized.

Methods

This study included 204 older people who were hospitalized. Sarcopenia was assessed relative to the diagnostic criteria established by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2). Muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance were evaluated using bioimpedance analysis, handgrip strength, and usual gait speed, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity analyses were conducted for the SARC‐F, SARC‐CalF, and Ishii tests to determine their effectiveness. Receiver operating characteristics curves were generated, and the area under curve was calculated to compare the overall diagnostic accuracy of the SARC‐F, SARC‐CalF, and Ishii tests.

Results

The SARC‐F, SARC‐CalF, and Ishii tests demonstrated sensitivities of 72%, 88.6%, and 93.5%, respectively, and specificities of 41%, 78.5%, and 30.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

SARC‐CalF demonstrates the highest performance in terms of sensitivity and specificity compared with the other two tests, making it a valuable tool for detecting sarcopenia in hospital settings. In contrast, the Ishii test exhibits high sensitivity but low specificity within this population. Based on our results, we found that SARC‐CalF can be used as a simple, effective test for identifying sarcopenia in older patients in the hospital setting.
Utility of mid‐upper arm circumference in pediatric malnutrition: An Australasian Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition consensus statement using the Delphi method
Authors: Miles Caitlin , Fox Julia , Davis Kimberly , Harris Angela , Kwa Christine , Little Bridget , Thomas Arabella , Zemrani Boutaina
Published: October 2024

Background

Mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) is a simple anthropometric tool used to screen for childhood undernutrition in humanitarian settings or low‐income and middle‐income countries. However, there is conflicting evidence and a lack of consensus with regard to its diagnostic use in clinical settings or population groups beyond this context. In 2023, a project officer was appointed by the Australasian Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (AuSPEN) to lead the development of a consensus review into the use of MUAC in the pediatric clinical setting.

Methods

An AuSPEN appointed multidisciplinary group of informed clinicians used the Delphi method to critically appraise the evidence and develop a series of consensus statements. Delphi surveys were anonymous and distributed electronically. Members were asked to rate their level of agreement with each consensus statement using a 5‐point Likert scale. A priori definition of consensus was established as ≥80% responses “agree” or “strongly agree.”

Results

Three Delphi rounds were required to reach consensus. A total of 18 consensus statements, including rationale, were developed across the topics ‘assessment and diagnosis’, ‘screening and monitoring’ and ‘clinical settings’.

Conclusion

An evidence‐based, region‐specific consensus approach to the use of MUAC in pediatric malnutrition is a valuable tool for clinicians. MUAC is a straightforward, non‐invasive and cost‐effective tool, and may provide an advantage over traditional anthropometric tools in some clinical settings. There are limitations to the utility of MUAC and this consensus paper provides an empirical summary of advantages and limitations as they apply to the screening, assessment, diagnosis, and monitoring of pediatric malnutrition.
Validation of a 3D‐Printed Silicone‐Based Laryngeal Model for Resident Education
Authors: Yousef Andrew , Ostrander Benjamin T. , Lin Jui‐Te , Nichol Ariadne A. , Vahabzadeh‐Hagh Andrew M. , Cates Daniel , Morimoto Tania K. , Weissbrod Philip A.
Published: October 2024

Objective

We sought to validate a laryngeal simulation model and subsequently demonstrate its efficacy in improving surgical technique.

Study Design

Pre‐post interventional study.

Setting

Otolaryngology Program at a Tertiary Care Center.

Methods

A low‐cost, high‐fidelity laryngeal model was created using a 3‐dimensional‐printed cast and multilayered silicone to mimic vocal fold lesions. Participants (attendings and trainees) were first given a series of tasks including mucosal vocal fold lesion resection and microflap excision of a submucosal lesion. Trainees were then provided with an instructional video from a laryngologist and asked to repeat the same tasks on the model. Performance data was then assessed using validated surveys and blinded expert reviewers.

Results

Eighteen participants completed the simulation. All subjects agreed that the “simulation experience was useful” and 93% agreed “the simulator helped improve my ability to do microsurgical tasks.” In the postinstruction self‐evaluation, trainees reported a significant decrease in mental demand (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.37‐0.91; P = .038) and significant increase in subjective performance (95% CI: 1.51‐51.89; P = .016) compared to the preinstruction self‐evaluation. On the postinstruction attempt, there was a significant improvement in all domains of the adapted objective structured assessment of technical skills as measured by 3 blinded, expert reviewers.

Discussion

This study demonstrates the usefulness of a silicone larynx model and the value of instructional video in developing laryngeal microsurgical skills. Participants positively reviewed the laryngeal model and trainees saw both a subjective and objective improvement indicating tangible operative benefits from the use of this laryngeal simulation.
Custom‐made surgical guide with mucoperiosteal flap elevation function for the removal of multiple impacted supernumerary teeth: A case report
Authors: Fujioka‐Kobayashi Masako , Miyasaka Ayako , Inada Ryo , Koyanagi Masateru , Tsunoda Erina , Satomi Takafumi
Published: October 2024

Background

Surgical guides manufactured with computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology are effective tools for oral surgeries.

Case presentation

A new type of surgical guide with mucoperiosteal flap elevation function was custom designed, printed, and applied for the safe and accurate removal of six impacted supernumerary teeth in a 12‐year‐old male patient. The surgical guides were designed with access holes corresponding to the positions of the impacted teeth and the elevation structures of the mucoperiosteal flap.

Conclusion

The novel custom‐made surgical guide system introduced in the present report was successfully utilized for minimally invasive teeth removal procedures.
Assessment of clinician agreement with and knowledge of evidence‐based obesity treatment in the primary care setting
Authors: Baalmann Angela R. , Norton Melissa C. , Gadbois‐Mincks Natalie R. , Ofei‐Dodoo Samuel , Presnell Erica N.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Effective, evidence‐based obesity treatment is needed, which often involves use of anti‐obesity medications (AOMs). Data on the breadth and quality of guideline‐directed obesity treatment implementation in primary care remain limited. This study aimed to assess primary care clinicians' agreement with and knowledge of guideline‐directed obesity treatment, as well as to assess the health status of persons with obesity and their use of AOMs.

Methods

This multimethod study included a prospective survey of primary care clinicians, utilizing a questionnaire that measured agreement on a 5‐point Likert scale and knowledge via multiple choice questions. A retrospective analysis was also performed of patient data collected between 30 June 2016 and 30 June 2020 from primary care clinics in the Midwest.

Results

Data were analyzed from 27 clinician survey responders, finding agreement toward all measured areas, however less strong for chronic AOM use and resource allocation. The survey identified multiple gaps in knowledge. Researchers assessed 5656 baseline encounters and 2941 corresponding follow‐up encounters. Analysis revealed ≥50% of the total patients experienced persistently uncontrolled obesity (mean body mass index of ≥40 kg/m2) and weight‐related complications. Low rates (≤10%) of AOM use in clinically eligible patients were shown, with phentermine monotherapy being the most commonly used.

Conclusions

Clinicians agree with guideline‐directed obesity treatment. Persons with obesity who are poorly controlled identify an opportunity for patient care improvement.
Unique polymer‐based composite coating with high anti‐corrosion characteristics and functional fillers
Authors: Kydyraliyeva Aigul , Beisenbaev Oral , Nadirov Kazim , Sakibaeva Saule , Otarbayev Nurlybek , Sakybayev Berik , Baibotayeva Saltanat , Orynbasarov Arslanbek
Published: October 2024

The objective of this research is to develop a composite polymer coating with increased thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance for protecting structural materials in heat exchange apparatuses. Chemically pure compounds such as graphene, boron nitride, tyrosine, sodium hydroxide, zinc pyrophosphate, ethyl acetate, and epoxy resin with the addition of secondary polypropylene were utilized as raw materials. The obtained coatings were evaluated using an emission scanning microscope equipped with an energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) detector. Electrochemical activity was measured using standard equipment within a frequency range of 0.1–0.01 Hz. Thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance were measured at 0.24 W/m K and 9.70 Ω/cm2 when using only epoxy resin with the addition of secondary polypropylene. When employing a composite consisting of epoxy resin with the addition of secondary polypropylene, boron nitride, graphene, tyrosine, and zinc pyrophosphate, the thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance values were 1.65 W/m K and 11.10 Ω/cm2, respectively. Polymer coatings containing 30% composite demonstrated the highest thermal conductivity (1.65 W/m K) and corrosion resistance (11.20 Ω/cm2). The research findings can be utilized to create polymer coatings with enhanced thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance values. This polymer coatings could serve as structural materials for heat exchange devices.

Highlights

Corrosion resistance increase with complexing of composite coating.

Thermal conductivity increase with complexing of composite coating.

Use of epoxy resin with secondary polypropylene make thermal conductivity value.
A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection for the treatment of upper limb spasticity in adults after stroke or traumatic brain injury
Authors: Patel Atul T. , Munin Michael C. , Ayyoub Ziyad , Francisco Gerard E. , Kazerooni Rashid , Gross Todd M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin type A is a first‐line pharmacotherapy for adults with upper limb spasticity (ULS). However, reemergence of symptoms within 12 weeks of treatment is common and longer‐lasting treatments are needed.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of three doses of DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection (DAXI) for treatment of ULS in adults with stroke or traumatic brain injury.

Intervention

Intramuscular injections of placebo (N = 24), DAXI 250 U (N = 22), DAXI 375 U (N = 19), or DAXI 500 U (N = 18) to the suprahypertonic muscle (SMG) and other muscle groups.

Design

Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study.

Setting

Twenty‐six study centers across the United States.

Participants

Eighty‐three adult patients with ULS were randomly assigned to each treatment group and followed for up to 36 weeks.

Outcome Measures

Co‐primary endpoints were the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) score change from baseline in the designated SMG and Physician Global Impression of Change (PGIC) at Week 6.

Results

The mean changes from baseline in MAS score for the designated SMG for placebo and the DAXI 250 U, 375 U, and 500 U groups were −0.6, −0.9, −0.9, and −1.8, respectively, at Week 4 and −0.8, −0.9, −1.0, and −1.5, respectively, at Week 6. Statistically significant improvement in MAS score compared with placebo was reported only for the 500 U dose (Week 4: p < .001; Week 6: p = .049). Significant improvements in PGIC ratings compared with placebo were reported for DAXI 375 U (p = .015) and DAXI 500 U (p = .009) at Week 4 but not for any DAXI doses at Week 6. All DAXI doses were well tolerated with no trend toward more adverse events with increased dose.

Conclusion

Results from this Phase 2 study indicate that DAXI 500 U is effective and well tolerated for treatment of adults with ULS.
The Role of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Littleford Karla , Tyler Laura , Dashwood Mark , Reed Hannah , Kuruvilla Tarun
Published: October 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) disproportionately affects women and, in 2022, was the leading cause of female deaths. It has major psychosocial, physical and economic impacts which will become more pronounced with an ageing population. Current treatments focus on symptom control and do not affect disease course. Emerging evidence suggests that the prescription of perimenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may prevent the development of AD. The objective of this narrative review is to synthesise and analyse relevant literature regarding HRT and AD prognosis in pre‐ and postmenopausal women to establish the current knowledge and provide a foundation for future research.
2‐Oxazoline‐Based Polymer for Pharmaceutical Products Adsorption in Aqueous Media
Authors: Stefanuto Luca , Ricci Agnese , Del Galdo Sara , Rossi Claudio , Pepi Simone , Giordano Emanuele , Capone Barbara , Tofani Daniela , Gasperi Tecla
Published: October 2024

We present the synthesis and comprehensive evaluation of a novel 2‐oxazoline‐based polymer (polyPhOx) functionalized with phenyl groups, designed for the efficient adsorption of pharmaceutical contaminants from aqueous solutions. Employing living polymerization techniques (CROP) with two distinct initiators, we optimize reaction parameters including time, temperature, and initiator concentration. The rigorous characterization of the obtained polymer is depicted as well as the demonstration of its significant binding capacity for various pharmaceuticals, exploiting π–π and electrostatic interactions to achieve superior adsorption efficiency. Adsorption experiments are performed using high concentrations of model pharmaceuticals, including aspirin, ibuprofen, metoclopramide, pyramidone, oestradiol, and indomethacin, in hydroalcoholic solutions. Initial investigations confirm polyPhOx's exceptional efficacy, particularly with hydrophobic compounds such as oestradiol, achieving adsorption capacities of up to 56.67 mg g−1. Further validation in real environmental samples highlights the polymer's practical applicability, showing substantial removal rates even under complex matrix conditions and bringing hope for effective water purification solutions. Remarkably, polyPhOx retains high adsorption performance after 10 cycles, underscoring its potential for sustainable and cost‐effective water purification. This study not only introduces a promising material for environmental remediation but also demonstrates its robustness and reusability, paving the way for advanced wastewater treatment solutions targeting persistent pharmaceutical pollutants.
Dietary Anthocyanin Intake, Genetic Risk, and Incident Ulcerative Colitis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sun Sishen , Wang Danshu , Dan Lintao , Fu Tian , Chen Jie , Zhang Yao , Sun Jing , Zou Duowu
Published: October 2024

Summary evidence from animal experiments indicates that anthocyanin supplements can contribute to intestinal health. Nevertheless, no evidence has linked dietary anthocyanins to the prevention potential against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in humans. We leveraged data from 188,044 IBD‐free individuals (mean age 59 years; 55.2% females) from the prospective cohort UK Biobank. The anthocyanin intake was estimated using dietary information from validated 24 h dietary recalls. Incident IBD was ascertained via national health‐related records. Genetic susceptibility to Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) was estimated by polygenic risk scores and further categorized into low‐ and high‐risk groups by median value. The Cox proportional regression model was applied to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During the mean follow‐up of 9.7 years, we documented 255 CD and 606 UC. We found that compared with participants with the lowest quartiles of anthocyanin intake, those in the highest quartiles were associated with 24% (95% CI 6%–38%, p = 0.012; p‐trend = 0.003) and 35% (95% CI 16%–49%, p = 0.001; p‐trend < 0.001) reduced risk of IBD and UC, respectively. The inverse associations were stronger (p‐interaction = 0.022) among individuals with a high genetic risk of UC. We did not observe a significant association between anthocyanin intake and CD (p‐trend = 0.536). Higher dietary anthocyanin intake was associated with reduced risk of IBD and UC, but not CD. Genetic factors may modify the influence of dietary anthocyanin on UC susceptibility, and possible mechanisms need to be further elucidated in the future.
Antidepressants and changes in adiposity
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: October 2024

It is not uncommon for patients with depression to have obesity as a comorbid condition (Mulugeta et al., 2019). Although antidepressants have been implicated in weight gain in patients with depression, the research evidence is conflicting and little data exist for assessing weight changes after more than 12 months of antidepressant therapy.
Synthesis of Copper Sulfides by Anion Substitution and their Resistive Switching Properties in the Presence of Cuprou‘s
Authors: Chen Manru , Guo Xin , Lv Yanfei , Li Jingzhou , Xi Junhua , Fu Li , Chen Fei , Zhang Rui , Zhao Shichao
Published: October 2024

Copper sulfides exhibit various significant physical properties and have wide potential applications. In order to synthesize copper sulfides and investigate the anion substitution possibility of Cu3P, we immersed Cu3P in sodium sulfide solution. From X‐ray diffraction spectra results, copper sulfides, namely Cu2S and Cu7.2S4, were observed, indicating that anion substitution between S2− and P3− ions did occur. Consequently, we investigated the resistive switching (RS) properties of these two phases in the presence of Cu3P. We found that the Cu2S‐Cu3P composite exhibited a high Off/On ratio (88) and a long retention time (>103 s). However, the Cu7.2S4‐Cu3P composite exhibited no RS performance. In addition, we discussed the conduction and resistive switching mechanisms. Our work enriches the preparation method of copper sulfides and provides a reference for enhancing RS performance.
Chitosan‐Carbon Aerogel for Efficient Removal of Methylene Blue Dye: Synthesis, Characterization, Adsorption Mechanism and Antimicrobial Therapies
Authors: El‐Newehy Mohamed H. , Aldalbahi Ali , Thamer Badr M. , Moydeen Abdulhameed Meera
Published: October 2024

Chitosan‐carbon aerogel was synthesized via a facile and eco‐friendly method and characterized for its structural and morphological properties. The composite exhibits remarkable adsorption kinetics and a high potential for removing Methylene Blue (MB) dye, attributed to its enhanced surface area, porous structure, and active functional groups. The adsorption capacity of chitosan‐carbon aerogel increased from 38 to 86.8 mg/g as the pH was raised from 2 to 7. The maximum MB adsorption capacity increased from 22 to 632 mg/g as the initial MB concentration increased from 25 to 2000 mg/L. The saturation adsorption capacity of the chitosan‐carbon aerogel was 668 mg/g. After five reuse cycles, the removal efficiency dropped from 89 % to 73.1 %. Antibacterial tests showed that the width of the inhibition zone for S. enterica was 16.2 ± 0.38 mm, indicating similar antibacterial activity for both chitosan and chitosan‐carbon aerogels. These findings underscore the potential of chitosan‐carbon aerogel as a sustainable and cost‐effective solution for dye removal in wastewater treatment.