bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration of the common pathogenic link between COVID‐19 and diabetic foot ulcers: An in silico approach
Authors: Cai Xueyao , Yang Ruijin , Shi Wenjun , Cai Yuchen , Ma Zhengzheng
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

The Coronavirus Disease‐19 (COVID‐19) is posing an ongoing threat to human health. Patients of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) are susceptible to COVID‐19‐induced adverse outcomes. Nevertheless, investigations into their mutual molecular mechanisms have been limited to date. In the present work, we tried to uncover the shared pathogenesis and regulatory gene targets of COVID‐19 and DFU.

Methods

In this study, we chose GSE161281 as the COVID‐19 data set, which contained severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infected human induced embryonic stem cell‐derived peripheral neurons (n = 2) with uninfected controls (n = 2). The GSE134431 designated as the DFU data set, comprising full‐thickness DFU (n = 13) and diabetic foot skin (n = 8) samples from diabetic patients. The differential expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from GSE161281 and GSE134431, and the common DEGs between COVID‐19 and DFU were extracted. Multifactor regulatory network and co‐expression network of the common DEGs were analyzed, along with candidate drug prediction.

Results

Altogether, six common DEGs (dickkopf‐related protein 1 [DKK1], serine proteinase inhibitor A3 [SERPINA3], ras homolog family member D [RHOD], myelin protein zero like 3 [MPZL3], Claudin‐11 [CLDN11], and epidermal growth factor receptor pathway substrate 8‐like 1 [EPS8L1]) were found between COVID‐19 and DFU. Functional analyses indicated that pathways of apoptotic and Wnt signaling may contribute to progression of COVID‐19. Gene co‐expression network implied the shared pathways of immune regulation and cytokine response participated collectively in the development of DFU and COVID‐19. A multifactor regulatory network was constructed integrating the corresponding microRNAs (miRNAs) and transcription factors. Additionally, we proposed potential drug objects for the combined therapy.

Conclusion

Our study revealed the shared molecular mechanisms underlying COVID‐19 and DFU. The identified pivotal targets and common pathways can provide new perspectives for further research and assist the development of management strategies in patients of DFU complicated with COVID‐19.
Analysis of entropy generation and activation energy in unsteady double diffusive flow over a stretching cylinder
Authors: Faisal Muhammad , Ahmad Iftikhar , Awan Muhammad Awais
Published: November 2023

Entropy generation with activation energy has garnered worldwide attention from researchers due to its extensive applications in thermodynamic design, chemical engineering, and optimization processes. One of the primary reasons for focusing on entropy is the global energy crisis, driven by massive consumption against limited resources. This study elucidates the double diffusion process in the dynamics of a viscous fluid over a stretching cylinder, incorporating considerations of entropy generation and activation energy. The non‐Fourier heat flux model is employed to describe the thermodynamics of the thermal system, while non‐Fick's law is used to elucidate the mass diffusion process. The unsteady phases of axisymmetric flow of the viscous fluid are thoroughly discussed. Transport equations in cylindrical configuration are transformed into ordinary differential equations, and an efficient mathematical method (i.e., homotopy analysis method) is applied to solve the transformed system. The graphical examination reveals the impact of flow parameters on velocity configuration, entropy configuration, temperature configurations, and concentration configurations. Additionally, a comparative benchmark is established with the results from previously published work for authentication and validation purposes. It is noted that concentration and temperature configurations are directly related to the unsteady stretching parameter. Entropy generation exhibits an inverse relationship with the unsteady stretching parameter when close to the stretching cylinder, whereas it shows a direct relationship when the fluid is flowing away from the surface.
Do institutional quality and its threshold matter in the sensitivity of the renewable energy transition to financial development? New empirical perspectives
Authors: Olaniyi Clement Olalekan , Al‐Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh , Ogbaro Eyitayo Oyewunmi
Published: November 2023

The transition to renewable energy is critical for environmental sustainability, consistent with sustainable development goals (SDGs) 7, 8, 11, 12, and 13 of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Scholars have identified financial development and institutional quality as significant factors determining the renewable energy transition in developing countries. This study opines that the efficiency of the financial system in supporting and providing the substantial financial implications that a switch to renewable energy necessitates depends on the quality of the institutional framework. Weak institutions in developing countries produce loopholes and inherent flaws in the financial system that facilitate corruption and opportunism, ultimately promoting dirty energy usage and technology at the expense of renewable energy. This process suggests that the interaction between financial development and institutions can either accelerate or impede the transition to renewable energy, depending on an economy's institutional architecture. Considering Africa's enormous renewable energy resources, previous research has overlooked the implications of the interplay between institutional quality and financial development in spurring Africa's transition to renewable energy. Thus, this study looks at the role of institutions in moderating the relationship between financial development and renewable energy in Africa from 1990 to 2019, using first‐ and second‐generation estimators to capture econometrics' pitfalls such as endogeneity, cross‐sectional dependence, and heterogeneity inherent in the panel dataset. This study departs from previous research in that it uses a dynamic panel threshold to determine the threshold of institutions beyond which financial development is stimulated to spur Africa's transition to renewable energy. The findings show that institutions create loopholes that allow rent‐seeking, opportunism, and sharp practices in the African financial system. These inherent flaws divert financial resources to support dirty energy and undermine the financial sector's ability to support a renewable energy transition on the continent. Also, the findings from the threshold of institutions affirm that African countries operate predominantly below the threshold of institutions, over which institutions enable financial development to expedite the continent's transition to renewable energy. The study suggests that institutional quality is essential in the relationship between financial development and Africa's shift to renewable energy. The findings' policy implications are discussed and outlined.
Behavioural explanations of Expectile VaR forecasting and dynamic hedging strategies for downside risk during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Insights from financial markets
Authors: Trichilli Yousra , Gaadane Sahbi , Boujelbène Abbes Mouna , Masmoudi Afif
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we investigate the influence of confirmation bias on Expectile Value at Risk (EVaR) forecasting among fundamentalist, optimistic, and pessimistic investors in cryptocurrency, commodity, and stock markets before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Utilizing the DCC‐range GARCH model, we also explore the conditional minimum downside risk hedge ratios. Our findings demonstrate that confirmation bias leads to excessive EVaR for financial market returns, regardless of the period being before or during COVID‐19. Moreover, fundamentalists' expectations in all markets remain constant, while without confirmation bias, optimists' and pessimists' expectations tend to converge to zero over time but diverge significantly during turbulent periods. When confirmation bias is present, the average distance between these expectations widens. Analysing the hedge ratio results, with or without confirmation bias, also unveils the conditional minimum downside risk hedge ratios. These ratios indicate the optimal proportions for hedging downside risk in each financial market during different periods. We find that the conditional minimum downside risk hedge ratios are generally lower (higher) during the pre‐COVID‐19 (COVID‐19) period, implying that hedging costs are higher during the COVID‐19 period. These insightful findings offer valuable insights for traders and regulators in identifying and understanding the risk conditions of cryptocurrency, commodity, and stock markets. Additionally, the analysis of conditional minimum downside risk hedge ratios provides investors with essential information on how to strategically position their portfolios to mitigate and manage risk during both tranquil and turbulent market conditions, with and without confirmation bias.
Complete transverse transection of the normal‐sized non‐pregnant uterus associated with wearing a safety belt in abdominal blunt trauma: Narrative review and case study
Authors: Srisukho Sasivimol , Chandacham Kamtone , Tongsong Theera
Published: November 2023

This review and case study illustrates a patient with a complete transverse transection of a non‐pregnant uterus caused by blunt trauma associated with wearing a safety belt. The 31‐year‐old patient, who had a previous cesarean section, presented with impending hypovolemic shock caused by intra‐abdominal hemorrhage secondary to blunt trauma while wearing a safety belt. On physical examination, a transverse straight line of ecchymosis along the line of a fastened safety belt was noted without any other external injury. The operative findings revealed a complete transverse transection which had cut through the lower part of the non‐pathological, normal‐sized uterus with active bleeding and mild injury to the small bowel without active bleeding. Total hysterectomy and simple closure of the small bowel were performed with successful outcomes. We hypothesize that transection was caused by the enormous pressure produced by blunt trauma transmitted through the abdomen by the fastened safety belt and the weakness of the uterine wall caused by the previous low transverse cesarean section which facilitated the separation and extension to the entire wall. In conclusion, this case study provides the following learning points: (1) Enormous forces produced by a fixed fastened safety belt during a car accident can cause complete transverse transection of a normal‐sized, non‐pathological uterus, leading to life‐threatening intra‐abdominal hemorrhage. (2) A previous cesarean section may potentiate the transection, especially when the uterus is repositioned above the pelvic brim. (3) The gynecologic condition should also be included in the differential diagnoses in cases of intra‐abdominal hemorrhage. If highly suspected, gynecologists should be notified for early recognition and avoidance of delayed actions.
Dr. Seuss, police reports, and lamb recipes: Examining text reformulation as a literacy strategy
Authors: DiCicco Michael , Shanahan Eileen
Published: November 2023

Engaging college students in purposeful academic tasks designed to foster both reading and writing competencies requires calculated decision‐making regarding the goals and benefits of the literacy tasks used in college courses. Consequently, we explore text reformulation as a literacy strategy that aims to enrich students' reading and writing competencies. Text reformulation, taking one text and recreating it in a new form, can be used to provide opportunities for students to develop reading and writing competencies like analyzing story details and sequencing, using mentor texts, and considering audience awareness. Drawing on recorded small group and whole class conversations, student work samples, and student reflections, this study considers how preservice teachers created meaning of an existing short story and applied it to new modalities. Implications for implementing text reformulation in middle, secondary, and college programs are highlighted, including orienting students to the task, teaching text structures, and guiding students through issues of purpose, audience, and tone.
Adolescent siblings of children with cancer: Resource‐based profiles, normalization, and search for meaning in life
Authors: Hamama Liat , Levy Shoham
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Adolescent siblings of children with cancer jointly face the experience of having a brother or sister with cancer and being in the developmental period of adolescence themselves. Based on Hobfoll's conservation of resources theory, we aimed to identify profiles based on two distinct resources: sense of hope (personal resource) and perceived social support (social resource). Both have been found to be vital for optimal functioning during adolescence. Further, we examined differences in these profiles with regard to two distal outcomes: normalization (a coping strategy) and search for meaning in life (a commonly assumed adolescent developmental task).

Methods

One hundred and eleven Israeli adolescent siblings (aged 13–17) completed self‐report measures.

Results

Two distinct resource‐based profiles were identified: “high resources” and “low resources.” Participants with “high resources” had a higher sense of hope and higher social support; were significantly more likely to live with married parents than with unmarried parents; had marginally fewer siblings; and scored higher on normalization and search for meaning in life than did participants with “low resources.”

Conclusions

The study outcomes highlight the essential role of resources for this population. Such resources seem to be helpful for normalization, a coping strategy whose focus is on facilitating regular family routines, and for the siblings' search for meaning in life. Practitioners who work with families in the context of childhood cancer should aim to help these siblings obtain key resources, such as social support, and to actively pursue their goals.
Identifying protective and risk behavior patterns of online communication in young people
Authors: Lowthian Emily , Fee Georgia , Wakeham Chloë , Clegg Zoë , Crick Tom , Anthony Rebecca
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Research has investigated the association between time spent online and mental well‐being, however the nuances between specific online behaviors and well‐being have been less explored. This research examines how specific online behaviors (i.e., how young people are engaging online and with whom), are associated with one another, and how these patterns of behaviors are related to well‐being.

Methods

We used the November 2020 and March 2021 Understanding Society COVID‐19 Panel data. The sample consisted of 1432 adolescents aged 10−15 years, who participated in November 2020. Latent class analysis was used to explore patterns of online behaviors. We also investigated how sociodemographic characteristics differed across the classes, along with physical, social, and mental well‐being as distal outcomes both cross‐sectionally and longitudinally.

Results

We identified four classes: “Avid users,” “Scholars,” “Midways,” and the “Passengers.” The avid users had the highest frequency of posting online content regularly, likewise the scholars also posted online content regularly, however the scholars were differentiated by their higher frequency of schoolwork and news intake online. The midways had more complex activity characterized by talking to friends often and having a social media account, but posted online content less frequently. The passengers were the least active online as they posted pictures and videos less (76% said “never”) and only 63% had a social media account. The avid users had the lowest well‐being cross‐sectionally and longitudinally, and the midways had lower social well‐being and appearance dissatisfaction.

Conclusions

Online behaviors such as regularly posting or talking to internet‐only friends could be related to lower well‐being. Policymakers should consider both improving regulations online and building an evidence base to enable caregivers from all backgrounds to support young people.
Atrazine exposure caused oxidative stress in male rats and inhibited brain‐pituitary‐testicular functions
Authors: Rotimi Damilare E. , Ojo Oluwafemi A. , Adeyemi Oluyomi S.
Published: November 2023

Exposure to the herbicide atrazine has been shown to have deleterious effects on human and animal reproduction. To determine whether atrazine influences the brain‐pituitary‐testicular axis directly or indirectly, the present study examined the toxic effects of atrazine on fertility potential by assessing gonadal hormones, testicular function indices, sperm quality, and oxido‐inflammatory markers in rats. Twelve animals were grouped into two groups; control and atrazine. The control group received oral administration of olive oil (2 mL/kg), while the atrazine group received 120 mg/kg of atrazine. Treatments were daily and lasted for 7 days. Upon treatment cessation, rats were necropsied for biochemical and histopathological analyses. The biochemical function indices in the rat brain, testis, and epididymis decreased significantly in the atrazine group. Atrazine exposure led to decreases in gonadal hormonal concentrations, semen quality parameters, and testicular function indices compared with the control. Furthermore, there was a marked increase in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers as well as degeneration of the histo‐architecture in atrazine‐treated rats. Overall, atrazine exposure impaired sperm quality, led to increased inflammation and oxidative stress, and decreased the activity of the brain‐pituitary‐testicular axis via endocrine disruption.
On symmetric designs with flag‐transitive and point‐quasiprimitive automorphism groups
Authors: Zhang Zhilin , Chen Jianfu , Zhou Shenglin
Published: November 2023

Let be a nontrivial symmetric ‐design with , and let be a flag‐transitive automorphism group of . In this paper, we show that if is quasiprimitive on , then is of holomorph affine or almost simple type. Moreover, if is imprimitive on , then is of almost simple type. According to this observation and to the classification of the finite simple groups we determine all such symmetric designs and the corresponding automorphism groups. We conclude with two open problems and a conjecture.
Finding the time: Hourly variation in average daily census on a hospital medicine service
Authors: Pierce Logan , Judson Timothy J. , Mourad Michelle
Published: November 2023

Monitoring the average daily census (ADC) is crucial for managing patient flow and allocating resources. This study analyzed hourly fluctuations in the ADC on a hospital medicine service at an academic medical center. Data from 8342 encounters and 6178 unique patients were collected over a year. The ADC peaked at 11 a.m. (164.1 patients/day) and was lowest at 7 p.m. (155.0 patients/day), accounting for a variation of up to 9.1 patients (5.5% of peak census) depending on the time of day the measurement was taken. Understanding how ADC changes throughout the day will help hospital medicine programs to partner with administrators to optimize resource allocation and staffing. Measuring ADC at midnight, as traditionally done, may underestimate workload and therefore contribute to staffing shortages and physician burnout. Hospitals should consider measuring ADC at its peak, between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m., to ensure adequate staffing and high‐quality patient care.
Disaster policy framework analysis: Experts' perspectives on the usefulness of the disaster legislation in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mavhura Emmanuel , Munsaka Edson , Round Gloria , Ngwenya Nomathemba , Mabanga Paul , Jusa Zacharia
Published: November 2023

The promulgation of the Hyogo Framework for Action and the Sendai Framework has seen many countries strengthening their disaster legislations in order to reduce disaster risk/losses. This study, therefore, assessed the usefulness of Zimbabwe's disaster legislation in reducing disaster risk/losses. The study used 27 semi‐structured interviews with disaster experts. The findings revealed that the legislation is largely promoting a reactionary approach to disasters in a top‐down manner. The study concludes that for disaster legislations to be adequate guiding frameworks for reducing disaster risks and losses, they need to be backed by clear funding mechanisms, which would allow investing in resilience.
Genomic epidemiology of the main SARS‐CoV‐2 variants in Italy between summer 2020 and winter 2021
Authors: Bergna Annalisa , Lai Alessia , Ventura Carla Della , Bruzzone Bianca , Weisz Alessandro , d'Avenia Morena , Testa Sophie , Torti Carlo , Sagnelli Caterina , Menchise Angela , Brindicci Gaetano , Francisci Daniela , Vicenti Ilaria , Clementi Nicola , Callegaro Annapaola , Rullo Emmanuele Venanzi , Caucci Sara , De Pace Vanessa , Orsi Andrea , Brusa Stefano , Greco Francesca , Letizia Vittoria , Vaccaro Emilia , Franci Gianluigi , Rizzo Francesca , Sagradi Fabio , Lanfranchi Leonardo , Coppola Nicola , Saracino Annalisa , Sampaolo Michela , Ronchiadin Silvia , Galli Massimo , Riva Agostino , Zehender Gianguglielmo ,   SARS‐CoV‐2 ITALIAN RESEARCH ENTERPRISE – (SCIRE) collaborative Group
Published: November 2023

Since the beginning of the pandemic, SARS‐CoV‐2 has shown a great genomic variability, resulting in the continuous emergence of new variants that has made their global monitoring and study a priority. This work aimed to study the genomic heterogeneity, the temporal origin, the rate of viral evolution and the population dynamics of the main circulating variants (20E.EU1, Alpha and Delta) in Italy, in August 2020–January 2022 period. For phylogenetic analyses, three datasets were set up, each for a different main lineage/variant circulating in Italy in that time including other Italian and International sequences of the same lineage/variant, available in GISAID sampled in the same times. The international dataset showed 26 (23% Italians, 23% singleton, 54% mixed), 40 (60% mixed, 37.5% Italians, 1 singleton) and 42 (85.7% mixed, 9.5% singleton, 4.8% Italians) clusters with at least one Italian sequence, in 20E.EU1  clade, Alpha and Delta variants, respectively. The estimation of tMRCAs in the Italian clusters (including >70% of genomes from Italy) showed that in all the lineage/variant, the earliest clusters were the largest in size and the most persistent in time and frequently mixed. Isolates from the major Italian Islands tended to segregate in clusters more frequently than those from other part of Italy. The study of infection dynamics showed a positive correlation between the trend in the effective number of infections estimated by BSP model and the Re curves estimated by birth‐death skyline plot. The present work highlighted different evolutionary dynamics of studied lineages with high concordance between epidemiological parameters estimation and phylodynamic trends suggesting that the mechanism of replacement of the SARS‐CoV‐2 variants must be related to a complex of factors involving the transmissibility, as well as the implementation of control measures, and the level of cross‐immunization within the population.
Height of non‐Hispanic white adults with homeostatic iron regulator HFE genotypes p.C282Y/p.C282Y and wt/wt
Authors: Barton James C. , Barton J. Clayborn , Acton Ronald T.
Published: November 2023

Background

We sought to evaluate height in white adults with hemochromatosis.

Methods

We analyzed the height of (1) post‐screening examination participants with HFE p.C282Y/p.C282Y (rs1800562) and wt/wt (absence of p.C282Y and p.H63D (rs1799945)) and (2) referred hemochromatosis probands with p.C282Y/p.C282Y.

Results

There were 762 participants (270 p.C282Y/p.C282Y, 492 wt/wt; 343 men, 419 women) and 180 probands (104 men, 76 women). Median height of male participants with p.C282Y/p.C282Y or wt/wt was 177.8 cm. Median height of female participants was greater in those with p.C282Y/p.C282Y than wt/wt (165.1 cm vs 162.6 cm, respectively; p = 0.0298). Median height of p.C282Y/p.C282Y participants and probands was the same (men 177.8 cm; women 165.1 cm). Regressions on height of male and female participants revealed no associations with HFE genotype and inverse and positive associations with age and weight, respectively. Height of female participants was positively and inversely associated with transferrin saturation and serum ferritin, respectively. Regressions on height of male and female probands revealed positive associations with weight.

Conclusions

The height of men with HFE p.C282Y/p.C282Y and wt/wt does not differ significantly. The height of female participants was greater in those with p.C282Y/p.C282Y than wt/wt. We found no independent association of HFE genotype with the height of men or women.
Catha edulis (khat) use and demographic correlates of schizophrenia: Case‐control study
Authors: Woldemariam Abraha Gosh , Thupayagale‐Tshweneagae Gloria
Published: November 2023

Use of Catha edulis is common among people living with schizophrenia. However, as is the case for most developing countries, the association of Catha edulis use and demographic variables to schizophrenia are not fully understood in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to determine Catha edulis use and demographic correlates of schizophrenia. Retrospective case‐control study was conducted on 37 schizophrenia patients and 103 non schizophrenia patients. Data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews using structured and pretested questionnaire. Associations between variable were determined using Mantel‐Haenszel and Fisher's exact test. Odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were calculated to see the strength of association at 0.05 levels of significance. Findings of the present study show that age 18 to 30 years old (OR = 2.6; p = 0.020), being single (OR = 4.25; p = 0.001), unemployment (OR = 3.82; p = 0.001) and Catha edulis usage (OR = 3.89; p = 0.001) were significantly correlated to schizophrenia.
Potential of Pseudomonas putida probiotic feed mixture for improving growth, immune response, and disease resistance in Nile Tilapia compared to Saccharomyces cerevisiae probiotic
Authors: Aly Salah M. , ElBanna Noha I. , Elatta Mohamed A. , Abdel Razek Nashwa , El-Ramlawy Asmaa O. , Mabrok Mahmoud , Fathi Mohamed
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aimed to assess the effects of a potential probiotic feed mixture containing Pseudomonas putida, in comparison to a yeast product (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), on the growth, immune response, and protection against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in Nile Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus.

Methods

Nile Tilapia were divided into three groups and subjected to a 60-day feeding regimen: the first group served as a control, receiving a commercial diet; the second group received a basal diet mixed with 1 × 107 CFU/g diet of P. putida; and the third group was fed a basal diet mixed with 1 g/kg diet of dried S. cerevisiae, resulting in a final concentration of 107 CFU/g of feeds. After 2 months of supplementation, various parameters including survival rate, body weight gain, feed conversion rate, specific growth rate, serum lysozyme activity, phagocytic activity, nitroblue tetrazolium activity, and disease resistance against A. hydrophila were evaluated.

Result

Both probiotic-treated groups exhibited significant improvements compared to the control group. Specifically, enhanced survival rates, body weight gains, feed conversion rates, and specific growth rates were observed in the probiotic-treated groups. Moreover, these groups demonstrated increased serum lysozyme, phagocytic, and nitroblue tetrazolium activities, indicative of an improved immune response. Notably, the probiotic-treated groups displayed enhanced resistance against A. hydrophila infection. Histopathological examination revealed that P. putida significantly augmented the nonspecific immune response in Nile Tilapia.

Conclusion

This preliminary study underscores the potential benefits of P. putida supplementation in Nile Tilapia diets. The inclusion of P. putida resulted in enhanced growth performance, improved immune status, and effective control of A. hydrophila infection. These findings suggest that P. putida holds promise as a valuable component in feed mixtures for promoting the growth and health of Nile Tilapia.
First uninterrupted sleep period in children and adolescents with nocturnal enuresis: Added value in diagnosis and follow‐up during therapy
Authors: Karamaria Sevasti , Dhondt Karlien , Everaert Karel , Mauel Reiner , Nørgaard Jens Peter , Raes Ann , Van Herzeele Charlotte , Verbakel Irina , Walle Johan Vande
Published: November 2023

Background

The first uninterrupted sleep period (FUSP, time up to the first episode of enuresis/nocturia after falling asleep) is a frequently investigated parameter in adults with nocturia, as it correlates with quality of life. However, it has not been included in pediatric enuresis studies.

Aim

Investigate FUSP, circadian renal water and sodium handling, as well as sleep quality before and after desmopressin therapy in enuresis.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a post hoc analysis of a prospective study in 30 treatment‐naïve children with enuresis who underwent a video‐polysomnography and a 24‐h urine concentration profile before and after 6 months of desmopressin therapy. We analyzed FUSP, periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS), and arousal indexes and their correlations with the urinary parameters.

Results

Sixteen children with a mean age of 10.9 ± 3.1 years had full registrations and were included in this subanalysis. After therapy, FUSP was significantly longer (p < 0.001), and the PLMS index was lower (p = 0.023). Significant differences in the circadian rhythm of diuresis (night/day diuresis, p = 0.041), nocturnal urinary osmolality (p = 0.009), and creatinine (p = 0.001) were found, demonstrating the increase of urinary concentration overnight by desmopressin, as well as a significant antidiuretic effect (diuresis [p = 0.013] and diuresis rate (p = 0.008). There was no correlation between the difference of FUSP, PLMS index, and urinary parameters. Nevertheless, despite this study being underpowered, there are indications of a correlation between nocturnal diuresis and diuresis rate.

Results

Our results support the need for further research regarding FUSP in children with enuresis, in accordance with nocturia studies in adults, as this parameter could be valuable in the follow‐up and evaluation of therapeutic strategies for enuresis.
Semaglutide 2.4 mg/wk for weight loss in patients with severe obesity and with or without a history of bariatric surgery
Authors: Bonnet Jean‐Baptiste , Tournayre Sarah , Anitcheou Jean , Faivre Marion , Boegner Catherine , Jalek Abdulkader , Jullien Dominique , Attalin Vincent , Myzia Justine , Marty Lucile , Kemba Youadigue , Nocca David , Sultan Ariane , Avignon Antoine
Published: November 2023

Objective

This retrospective cohort study aimed to assess the effectiveness of semaglutide 2.4 mg in patients with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) who had previously undergone bariatric surgery (BS) but failed to achieve satisfactory weight loss or experienced weight regain compared with patients without a history of BS with similar BMI.

Methods

The authors analyzed data from 129 patients with a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2, including 39 with (BS+) and 90 without (BS−) a history of BS. The patients received semaglutide treatment for 24 weeks starting at 0.25 mg/wk and gradually increasing to reach a final dose of 2.4 mg/wk. The treatment outcomes were assessed based on the percentage of weight loss, changes in BMI, and waist circumference.

Results

Semaglutide treatment resulted in significant 9.1% weight loss in the BS+ group, with no significant difference in weight loss between the BS+ and BS− groups.

Conclusions

This study is the first, to the authors’ knowledge, to compare the effectiveness of semaglutide treatment in patients with versus those without a history of BS, providing valuable evidence of its efficacy. By focusing on individuals with severe obesity (BMI > 40 kg/m2 and associated comorbidities), it fills a gap in the current literature and highlights the potential of semaglutide 2.4 mg as a treatment option for this specific population.
Associations between BMI in youth and site‐specific cancer in men—A cohort study with register linkage
Authors: Onerup Aron , Mehlig Kirsten , af Geijerstam Agnes , Ekblom‐Bak Elin , Kuhn Hans‐Georg , Lissner Lauren , Rosengren Annika , Börjesson Mats , Åberg Maria
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study examined BMI in young men and incident site‐specific cancer to estimate population attributable fractions due to BMI based on projected obesity prevalence.

Methods

A population‐based cohort study with measured height and weight at age 18. Cox regression models assessed linear associations for BMI and included age, year, and site of conscription as well as parental level of education as covariates.

Results

Primary analyses were performed in 1,489,115 men, of whom 78,217 subsequently developed cancer during a mean follow‐up of 31 years. BMI was linearly associated with risk of developing all 18 site‐specific cancers assessed (malignant melanoma; leukemia; myeloma; Hodgkin lymphoma; non‐Hodgkin lymphoma; and cancer in the lungs, head and neck, central nervous system, thyroid, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver and gallbladder, colon, rectum, kidney, and bladder), in some instances evident at BMI levels usually defined as normal (20–25 kg/m2). Higher BMI was associated with lower risk of prostate cancer. The highest hazard ratios and population attributable fractions were seen for some gastrointestinal cancers.

Conclusions

This study reports linear associations between BMI at age 18 and subsequent site‐specific cancers, calling for rapid action to stem the obesity epidemic and to prepare the health care system for steep increases in cancer cases.
The anthropological method for diagnosing mental diseases: On the theory of time structure of Bin Kimura
Authors: Noma Shun'ichi
Published: November 2023

Bin Kimura (1931–2021), the Japanese anthropological psychopathologist and philosopher, attached importance to clinical impressions at psychiatric consultations in order to diagnose mental diseases precisely, and thus proposed his original theory of time structure. According to Kimura's theory of time structure, whether we live by giving weight to the past, the present, or the future can be called “time structure,” and is essentially related to the way we live with others and experience the world. We can obtain some signs for diagnosing mental diseases from the viewpoint of the time structure of each patient. “Ante‐festum” is the time structure in which one lives ahead to the future, and is typical of schizophrenic patients. “Post‐festum” is the time structure in which one is late for oneself, and is typical of patients with endogenous depression. “Intra‐festum” is the time structure in which one lives directly in the present, and is typical of patients with epilepsy or bipolar disorders. The anthropological diagnosis according to Kimura's theory of time structure could complement the operational diagnostic criteria, such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, in daily clinical practice. For example, Kimura's theory of time structure could exercise its ability to discriminate between endogenous and neurotic depression, and between schizophrenia and other delusional psychoses. The theory of time structure and anthropological diagnosis which Bin Kimura proposed in the late 20th century can give us many hints for assessing patients with mental diseases even today.
Deformation of soft substrates during adhesive peel testing
Authors: Gohl Jared A. , Zummo William H. , Jennings Rebecca M. , Defante Adrian P. , Davis Chelsea S.
Published: November 2023

Peeling of pressure‐sensitive adhesives from low modulus substrates such as human skin induces a significant out‐of‐plane deformation at the crack tip. In the context of medical adhesives, this deformation is related to the pain and injury caused to the skin and underlying tissue during removal. Here, a method is presented to measure the out‐of‐plane deformation of elastic substrates as a medical adhesive tape is removed from the surface, a necessary first step in the eventual quantification of pain. Elastic human skin analogs comprised of a simple bilayer with varied moduli across several orders of magnitude are fabricated. Next, a nonporous medical adhesive tape is peeled from these substrates and the deformation is quantified. A model derived from contact mechanics for a rectangular pressure is fit to the experimental data. By correcting for confinement effects and deformation within the adhesive, good agreement is found between the newly reported model in this study and the experimentally observed deformation.
Mechanistic insights into the selectivity of bicyclophosphorothionate antagonists for housefly versus rat GABA receptors
Authors: Zheng Xiaojiao , Liu Genyan , Ozoe Yoshihisa , Ju Xiu‐Lian
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

γ‐Aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors (GABARs) are validated targets of insecticides. Bicyclophosphorothionates are a group of insecticidal compounds that act as noncompetitive antagonists of GABARs. We previously reported that the analogs exhibit various degrees of selectivity for housefly versus rat GABARs, depending on substitutions at the 3‐ and 4‐positions. We here sought to elucidate the unsolved mechanisms of the receptor selectivity using quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR), molecular docking, and molecular dynamics approaches.

RESULTS

Three‐dimensional (3D)‐QSAR studies using Topomer comparative molecular field analysis quantitatively demonstrated how the introduction of a small alkyl group at the 3‐position of bicyclophosphorothionates contributes to the housefly versus rat GABAR selectivity. To investigate the molecular mechanisms of the selective action, bicyclophosphorothionates were docked into housefly Resistance to dieldrin (RDL) GABAR and rat α1β2γ2 GABAR homology models built using the published 3D‐structures of human GABARs as templates. The results of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the 2'Ala and 6'Thr residues of the RDL subunit within the channel are the key amino acids for binding to the housefly GABARs, whereas the 2'Ser residue of γ2 subunit plays a crucial role in binding to rat GABARs.

CONCLUSION

We revealed the molecular mechanisms underlying the selective antagonistic action of bicyclophosphorothionates on housefly versus rat GABARs. The information presented should help design and develop novel, safe GABAR‐targeting insecticides. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Upward social mobility? The capital accumulation of Taiwanese talent in China
Authors: Song Yu‐ling
Published: November 2023

From a nation‐state and regional perspective, global talent flows have traditionally been South−North, and the discourse has focused on brain drain or brain gain. This research extends beyond the South−North spatial structure to investigate Taiwanese talent flows to China, examining why young Taiwanese talent is migrating to China for employment in the complex context of cross‐Strait relations, and how they accumulate capital through their own particular globalized situation and the relationship they construct between capital accumulation and spatial mobility. The fieldwork for the present research included in‐depth interviews conducted in 2018 with 35 young Taiwanese who had relocated to Beijing for work. Results found that Taiwanese talent does not always accumulate capital through spatial mobility, but rather they experience the offset of privilege and depreciation of embodied cultural capital in the place of immigration and continue to accumulate mixed forms of embodied cultural capital such as ‘Chinese experience’ which enable the constant mobility or stop in the future. This research describes the dynamics of spatial mobility of talents caused by the accumulation of embodied cultural capital in countering the globalized situation.
Anticancer activity and other biomedical properties of β‐sitosterol: Bridging phytochemistry and current pharmacological evidence for future translational approaches
Authors: Nandi Sudeshna , Nag Anish , Khatua Somanjana , Sen Surjit , Chakraborty Nilanjan , Naskar Arghya , Acharya Krishnendu , Calina Daniela , Sharifi‐Rad Javad
Published: November 2023

Sterols, including β‐sitosterol, are essential components of cellular membranes in both plant and animal cells. Despite being a major phytosterol in various plant materials, comprehensive scientific knowledge regarding the properties of β‐sitosterol and its potential applications is essential for scholarly pursuits and utilization purposes. β‐sitosterol shares similar chemical characteristics with cholesterol and exhibits several pharmacological activities without major toxicity. This study aims to bridge the gap between phytochemistry and current pharmacological evidence of β‐sitosterol, focusing on its anticancer activity and other biomedical properties. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of β‐sitosterol's potential for future translational approaches. A thorough examination of the literature was conducted to gather relevant information on the biological properties of β‐sitosterol, particularly its anticancer therapeutic potential. Various databases were searched, including PubMed/MedLine, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science using appropriate keywords. Studies investigating the effects of β‐sitosterol on different types of cancer were analyzed, focusing on mechanisms of action, pharmacological screening, and chemosensitizing properties. Modern pharmacological screening studies have revealed the potential anticancer therapeutic properties of β‐sitosterol against various types of cancer, including leukemia, lung, stomach, breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancer. β‐sitosterol has demonstrated chemosensitizing effects on cancer cells, interfering with multiple cell signaling pathways involved in proliferation, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, survival, metastasis invasion, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Structural derivatives of β‐sitosterol have also shown anti‐cancer effects. However, research in the field of drug delivery and the detailed mode of action of β‐sitosterol‐mediated anticancer activities remains limited. β‐sitosterol, as a non‐toxic compound with significant pharmacological potential, exhibits promising anticancer effects against various cancer types. Despite being relatively less potent than conventional cancer chemotherapeutics, β‐sitosterol holds potential as a safe and effective nutraceutical against cancer. Further comprehensive studies are recommended to explore the biological properties of β‐sitosterol, including its mode of action, and develop novel formulations for its potential use in cancer treatment. This review provides a foundation for future investigations and highlights the need for further research on β‐sitosterol as a potent superfood in combating cancer.
Observation impact metrics in NWP: A theoretical study. Part II: Systems with suboptimal observation errors
Authors: Eyre J. R.
Published: November 2023

Two methods are widely used to assess the impact of observations in global numerical weather prediction (NWP): data denial experiments (DDEs) and the forecast sensitivity‐based observation impact (FSOI) method. A DDE measures the impact on forecast accuracy of removing an observation type from the system, whereas FSOI estimates the amount by which an observation type reduces the short‐range forecast error within a system containing all observation types. This article describes the second part of a two‐part study. In the first part, the theory behind DDE and FSOI metrics was presented and then applied to a simple model with two state variables, all in the context of optimal data assimilation (DA), for which the error covariances used in the DA system match reality. The article showed why and under what conditions the DDE and FSOI metrics give different results, even for an optimal DA system. In this second part, we extend the theory to suboptimal systems, and specifically to systems that are suboptimal in their specification of observation errors, and then apply it to a very simple model, in this case with one state variable. As expected, DDE impacts are reduced when the system is suboptimal. By contrast, relative FSOI impacts (i.e. relative to those of other observation types) increase for an observation type for which the errors are underestimated. This gives the erroneous impression that the change in assumed errors has led to an improvement, whereas the opposite is the case. These results provide some insights into the interpretation of FSOI results from a suboptimal DA system.
Fruit growing direction recognition and nesting grasping strategies for tomato harvesting robots
Authors: Zheng Xiajun , Rong Jiacheng , Zhang Zhiqin , Yang Yan , Li Wei , Yuan Ting
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the potential of robotic harvesting in greenhouse tomato production has garnered significant attention within the tomato industry. However, there is a lack of sufficient research on the complete replacement of manual harvesting with this technology. In this paper, we propose a tomato harvesting method that utilizes a nesting approach to simplify the process and minimize damage. The paper describes the tomato harvesting robot prototype, the visual system equipped with three vision‐based tomato detectors: YOLOv5_CBAM, which incorporates a convolutional block attention module; YOLOv5_SE, enhanced with a squeeze‐and‐excitation block; and a standard YOLOv5s model. Additionally, a novel shear gripping method for fruit bunches is presented, utilizing a bottom‐up snapping technique during harvesting. Point cloud data are utilized to determine the position of the tomato's main stem and bunch. The paper includes field tests and experimental findings, which indicate that the YOLOv5_CBAM model achieves the highest precision (82.62%) and recall (82.57%), outperforming YOLOv5_SE and standard YOLOv5s. Field experiments demonstrate that the improved end‐effector and vision system have significantly enhanced the robot's performance, achieving a 57.5% harvesting success rate in just 14.9 s.