bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alterations of the gut microbiome are associated with epigenetic age acceleration and physical fitness
Authors: Torma Ferenc , Kerepesi Csaba , Jókai Mátyás , Babszki Gergely , Koltai Erika , Ligeti Balázs , Kalcsevszki Regina , McGreevy Kristen M. , Horvath Steve , Radák Zsolt
Published: February 2024

Epigenetic clocks can measure aging and predict the incidence of diseases and mortality. Higher levels of physical fitness are associated with a slower aging process and a healthier lifespan. Microbiome alterations occur in various diseases and during the aging process, yet their relation to epigenetic clocks is not explored. To fill this gap, we collected metagenomic (from stool), epigenetic (from blood), and exercise‐related data from physically active individuals and, by applying epigenetic clocks, we examined the relationship between gut flora, blood‐based epigenetic age acceleration, and physical fitness. We revealed that an increased entropy in the gut microbiome of physically active middle‐aged/old individuals is associated with accelerated epigenetic aging, decreased fitness, or impaired health status. We also observed that a slower epigenetic aging and higher fitness level can be linked to altered abundance of some bacterial species often linked to anti‐inflammatory effects. Overall our data suggest that alterations in the microbiome can be associated with epigenetic age acceleration and physical fitness.
Does temporary land retirement promote organic adoption? Evidence from the Conservation Reserve Program
Authors: Wing Hannah , Bigelow Daniel P. , Fuller Kate Binzen
Published: February 2024

The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) allows agricultural producers to temporarily remove environmentally sensitive farmland from production in exchange for a yearly rental payment. While enrolled in the CRP, land typically complies with standards for organic certification, which prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers for three years prior to harvest. In this paper, we study the extent to which recent participation in the CRP promotes organic certification. We do so by estimating the relationship between exiting CRP contracts and new organic certifications at the county level over the years 2011–2020. Our primary results are based on an instrumental variables estimator, where we use the number of expiring CRP contracts as an instrument for endogenous net‐exiting CRP contracts. We find that the exit of land from the CRP leads to increases in organic adoption, and estimate a 0.029% increase in new organic operations in response to a 1% increase in net‐exiting CRP contracts. By highlighting this important co‐effect of the CRP, our analysis contributes to contemporary discussions exploring the long‐term linkages between land conservation policies, organic agriculture, and other conservation practices.
Conventional in vitro fertilisation rather than intracytoplasmic sperm injection when only one oocyte is retrieved: Time to overcome irrational fears
Authors: Pisaturo Valerio , Reschini Marco , Guarneri Cristina , Sanzani Elena , Paffoni Alessio , Somigliana Edgardo
Published: February 2024

Background

The use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) currently extends beyond male factor infertility, notably replacing conventional in vitro fertilisation (IVF) in scenarios like limited oocyte availability, where it is used as a precaution against complete fertilisation failure. While existing studies on the use of conventional IVF in such situations provide some reassurance, the available evidence is somewhat insufficient and ICSI is commonly used.

Aims

To evaluate whether conventional IVF can be a feasible option when only one oocyte is retrieved.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the fertilisation rate with conventional IVF in women retrieving only one oocyte and whose partner had normal semen. The study aimed at evaluating whether the fertilisation rate was aligned with the threshold indicated by recognized IVF laboratory performance indicators (Vienna Consensus). Clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were secondary outcomes.

Results

Out of 304 cycles with a single oocyte inseminated with conventional IVF, 209 achieved normal fertilisation and 82 did not. Thirteen had no mature oocytes. The fertilisation rate was 69% (95% CI: 63–74%) and increased to 72% (95% CI: 66–77%) when immature oocytes were excluded. The fertilisation rate surpassed the minimum competency threshold of the Vienna Consensus (60%), even if below the benchmark value (75%). Clinical pregnancy and live birth rates per oocyte retrieval were 10% and 8%, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses failed to identify any predictive factor of fertilisation.

Conclusion

Conventional IVF with one oocyte met Vienna Consensus standards even if it fell short of higher benchmarks.
The ornamentation steps of the Bull Rotunda of the Lascaux cave give new insights into the Upper Palaeolithic natural life cycle
Authors: Reiche Ina , Vignaud Colette , Chalmin Emilie , Menu Michel , Geneste Jean‐Michel
Published: February 2024

Although the ornamentation of the Lascaux cave seems relatively homogeneous in style, the analysis by scanning and transmission electron microscopy of 32 microsamples from the figures of the Hall of the Bulls (Bull Rotunda) and one desquamated sample from the soil highlighted different paint pots. The black and red paint matters with their associated mineralogical phases were extensively characterized. Considering previous stylistic and superimposition studies, we were eventually able to confirm five creation steps of monothematic figures (‘assemblages’) based on the chemical and mineralogical characteristics. Further interpretations in terms of the rhythm and temporal framework of the Hall of the Bulls (Bull Rotunda) of the Lascaux cave could be reinforced. Some particular representations such as the black cave bear and one of the cross‐shaped signs were shown to be likely added at later moments by different hands because their paint pots were different from those of the Bull Rotunda and similar to that of other representations in deeper rooms of the Lascaux cave. We also found that the paint matter of the Bull Rotunda was different than those of other Palaeolithic cave sites on a more regional scale indicating a very local sourcing.
Robot‐assisted laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer in a patient with a horseshoe kidney: A case report
Authors: Shoji Ryohei , Teraishi Fuminori , Matsumi Yuki , Kashima Hajime , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi
Published: February 2024

A 52‐year‐old, Japanese man presented to the hospital with a complaint of anal bleeding, and detailed examination resulted in a diagnosis of locally advanced rectal cancer. The patient underwent total neoadjuvant therapy followed by short‐course radiation therapy and consolidation chemotherapy, which provided a partial response. After preoperative contrast‐enhanced computed tomography showed a horseshoe kidney, robot‐assisted, precise, laparoscopic, low anterior resection with D3 dissection and ileostomy construction was performed. The horseshoe renal isthmus was elevated surrounding the inferior mesenteric artery, and the left ureter and seminal vessels ran in front of the kidney. The hypogastric nerve traveled ventral to the horseshoe kidney. With robotic surgery, it was possible to perform more precise surgery while recognizing vascular and nerve anatomy in a rectal cancer patient with a horseshoe kidney due to good three‐dimensional visibility and articulated forceps manipulation.
Regulation of depressive‐like behaviours by palmitoylation: Role of AKAP150 in the basolateral amygdala
Authors: Wang Si‐Ying , Xia Zhi‐Xuan , Yang Shao‐Wei , Chen Wei‐Kai , Zhao Yue‐Ling , Li Meng‐Die , Tian Dan , Pan Yue , Lin Xiao‐Shan , Zhu Xiao‐Qian , Huang Zhen , Liu Jian‐Min , Lai Zhong‐Meng , Tao Wu‐Cheng , Shen Zu‐Cheng
Published: February 2024

Background and Purpose

Protein palmitoylation is involved in learning and memory, and in emotional disorders. Yet, the underlying mechanisms in these processes remain unclear. Herein, we describe that A‐kinase anchoring protein 150 (AKAP150) is essential and sufficient for depressive‐like behaviours in mice via a palmitoylation‐dependent mechanism.

Experimental Approach

Depressive‐like behaviours in mice were induced by chronic restraint stress (CRS) and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). Palmitoylated proteins in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) were assessed by an acyl‐biotin exchange assay. Genetic and pharmacological approaches were used to investigate the role of the DHHC2‐mediated AKAP150 palmitoylation signalling pathway in depressive‐like behaviours. Electrophysiological recording, western blotting and co‐immunoprecipitation were performed to define the mechanistic pathway.

Key Results

Chronic stress successfully induced depressive‐like behaviours in mice and enhanced AKAP150 palmitoylation in the BLA, and a palmitoylation inhibitor was enough to reverse these changes. Blocking the AKAP150‐PKA interaction with the peptide Ht‐31 abolished the CRS‐induced AKAP150 palmitoylation signalling pathway. DHHC2 expression and palmitoylation levels were both increased after chronic stress. DHHC2 knockdown prevented CRS‐induced depressive‐like behaviours, as well as attenuating AKAP150 signalling and synaptic transmission in the BLA in CRS‐treated mice.

Conclusion and Implications

These results delineate that DHHC2 modulates chronic stress‐induced depressive‐like behaviours and synaptic transmission in the BLA via the AKAP150 palmitoylation signalling pathway, and this pathway may be considered as a promising novel therapeutic target for major depressive disorder.
Salivary metabolomic biomarkers for non‐invasive lung cancer detection
Authors: Kajiwara Naohiro , Kakihana Masatoshi , Maeda Junichi , Kaneko Miku , Ota Sana , Enomoto Ayame , Ikeda Norihiko , Sugimoto Masahiro
Published: February 2024

Identifying novel biomarkers for early detection of lung cancer is crucial. Non‐invasively available saliva is an ideal biofluid for biomarker exploration; however, the rationale underlying biomarker detection from organs distal to the oral cavity in saliva requires clarification. Therefore, we analyzed metabolomic profiles of cancer tissues compared with those of adjacent non‐cancerous tissues, as well as plasma and saliva samples collected from patients with lung cancer (n = 109 pairs). Additionally, we analyzed plasma and saliva samples collected from control participants (n = 83 and 71, respectively). Capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry were performed to comprehensively quantify hydrophilic metabolites. Paired tissues were compared, revealing 53 significantly different metabolites. Plasma and saliva showed 44 and 40 significantly different metabolites, respectively, between patients and controls. Of these, 12 metabolites exhibited significant differences in all three comparisons and primarily belonged to the polyamine and amino acid pathways; N1‐acetylspermidine exhibited the highest discrimination ability. A combination of 12 salivary metabolites was evaluated using a machine learning method to differentiate patients with lung cancer from controls. Salivary data were randomly split into training and validation datasets. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.744 for cross‐validation using training data and 0.792 for validation data. This model exhibited a higher discrimination ability for N1‐acetylspermidine than that for other metabolites. The probability of lung cancer calculated using this model was independent of most patient characteristics. These results suggest that consistently different salivary biomarkers in both plasma and lung tissues might facilitate non‐invasive lung cancer screening.
An integrative model of parent‐infant communication development
Authors: Lipschits Or , Geva Ronny
Published: February 2024

Communication is commonly viewed as connecting people through conscious symbolic processes. Infants have an immature communication toolbox, raising the question of how they form a sense of connectedness. In this article, we propose a framework for infants' communication, emphasizing the subtle unconscious behaviors and autonomic contingent signals that convey drives, emotions, and a sense of connection, facilitating the formation of primal social bonds. Our developmental model emphasizes the importance of diverse modes of communication and their interplay in social interactions during infancy. The framework leverages three levels of communication—autonomic, behavioral, and symbolic—and their different maturational pathways. Initially, infants' social communication relies on autonomic responses and a dynamic behavioral repertoire, which evolve during the first year of life, supporting the emergence of symbolic communication. This extended communication framework highlights infants' role as proactive communicating agents and allows for tracing communicative developmental cascades back to their origins.
Multi‐armed bandits, Thomson sampling and unsupervised machine learning in phylogenetic graph search
Authors: Wheeler Ward C.
Published: February 2024

A phylogenetic graph search relies on a large number of highly parameterized search procedures (e.g. branch‐swapping, perturbation, simulated annealing, genetic algorithm). These procedures vary in effectiveness over datasets and at alternative points in analytical pipelines. The multi‐armed bandit problem is applied to phylogenetic graph searching to more effectively utilize these procedures. Thompson sampling is applied to a collection of search and optimization “bandits” to favour productive search strategies over those that are less successful. This adaptive random sampling strategy is shown to be more effective in producing heuristically optimal phylogenetic graphs and more time efficient than existing uniform probability randomized search strategies. The strategy acts as a form of unsupervised machine learning that can be applied to a diversity of phylogenetic datasets without prior knowledge of their properties.
MicroRNA‐29c‐tetrahedral framework nucleic acids: Towards osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and bone regeneration in critical‐sized calvarial defects
Authors: Sun Jiafei , Chen Xingyu , Lin Yunfeng , Cai Xiaoxiao
Published: February 2024

Certain miRNAs, notably miR29c, demonstrate a remarkable capacity to regulate cellular osteogenic differentiation. However, their application in tissue regeneration is hampered by their inherent instability and susceptibility to degradation. In this study, we developed a novel miR29c delivery system utilising tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs), aiming to enhance its stability and endocytosis capability, augment the efficacy of miR29c, foster osteogenesis in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), and significantly improve the repair of critical‐sized bone defects (CSBDs). We confirmed the successful synthesis and biocompatibility of sticky ends‐modified tFNAs (stFNAs) and miR29c‐modified stFNAs (stFNAs‐miR29c) through polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, microscopy scanning, a cell counting kit‐8 assay and so on. The mechanism and osteogenesis effects of stFNAs‐miR29c were explored using immunofluorescence staining, western blotting, and reserve transcription quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Additionally, the impact of stFNAs‐miR29c on CSBD repair was assessed via micro‐CT and histological staining. The nano‐carrier, stFNAs‐miR29c was successfully synthesised and exhibited exemplary biocompatibility. This nano‐nucleic acid material significantly upregulated osteogenic differentiation‐related markers in BMSCs. After 2 months, stFNAs‐miR29c demonstrated significant bone regeneration and reconstruction in CSBDs. Mechanistically, stFNAs‐miR29c enhanced osteogenesis of BMSCs by upregulating the Wnt signalling pathway, contributing to improved bone tissue regeneration. The development of this novel nucleic acid nano‐carrier, stFNAs‐miR29c, presents a potential new avenue for guided bone regeneration and bone tissue engineering research.
Efficacy of a novel covered metallic stent with side holes for malignant anastomotic stenosis of choledochojejunostomy
Authors: Kitagawa Koh , Tomooka Fumimasa , Yoshiji Hitoshi
Published: February 2024

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White sardine (Escualosa thoracata) stock status in coastal waters of Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Mitu Ranjan , Chan Md. Lal , Alam Mohammed Shahidul
Published: February 2024

The marine fisheries of Bangladesh have experienced an uncontrolled expansion of fishing over the last few decades. Consequently, most fish stocks became vulnerable to overfishing. Similar to many other fisheries, catch of white sardine (Escualosa thoracata) is rapidly declining. Therefore, three data‐limited approaches (length‐based Bayesian biomass analysis, LBB; length‐based spawning potential ratio, LB‐SPR; and Froese's length‐based indicators, LBIs) were used to estimate growth, mortality, and fisheries reference points to evaluate stock status of the white sardine fishery. Results revealed that the fishery is being overfished: F/M = 1.32 years−1 in LBB and 6.67 years−1 in LB‐SPR. However, the stock biomass is still good with B/B0 = 0.43 and B/BMSY = 1.20. Stock indicators revealed that the fishery was mainly targeting mature fishes, most of which were mega‐spawners (older, larger fish), which suggested stocks were recruitment overfished. Harvesting an optimum size range (6.57 to 8.03 cm) and reducing fishing mortality to a sustainable level (F = M) would sustain a healthy stock biomass.
Unraveling the multifaceted effects of climatic factors on mountain pine beetle and its interaction with fungal symbionts
Authors: Zaman Rashaduz , Shah Aftab , Shah Ateeq , Ullah Aziz , Ishangulyyeva Guncha , Erbilgin Nadir
Published: February 2024

Mountain pine beetles (MPBs) pose a substantial threat to North American pine forests, causing extensive tree mortality over large areas. Their tree‐killing ability is closely linked to mass aggregation on host trees triggered via pheromones and dependence on their symbiotic fungi. However, the influence of a changing climate on the biology of MPBs and their co‐evolved interactions with their fungal symbionts remains uncertain. To investigate this, male and female pairs of beetles were introduced into freshly cut logs from lodgepole pine trees and placed in controlled climate chambers with manipulated environmental conditions, including two levels of CO2 (ambient vs. 1000 ppm), O3 (ambient vs. 100 ppb) and humidity (33% vs. 65%). The beetle‐infested logs were left in these chambers for 1 month and then returned to ambient conditions until brood emergence. Emerging broods were collected for further analysis. Additionally, three species of fungal symbionts (Grosmannia clavigera, Ophiostoma montium and Leptographium longiclavatum) were subjected to the same CO2, O3 and humidity conditions for 5 days. Lower humidity promoted MPB reproduction and fungal growth. Elevated CO2 accelerated larval growth and emergence while improving brood pheromone production. Elevated O3 had a negative impact on MPB reproduction and brood fitness while improving its immune responses to an entomopathogenic fungus (Beauveria bassiana). It also inhibited fungal growth and reproduction, whereas elevated CO2 had varied (positive or negative) effects on fungal growth and ergosterol (proxy to fungal mass) production depending on the fungal species. Together, these findings suggest that climate change can potentially alter the interactions between MPBs and their fungal symbionts, highlighting the importance of understanding how climate change affects forest pests and their symbiotic relationships to develop effective management strategies in the future.
Characteristics of acute ischemic stroke and unusual aura in patients with migraine with aura
Authors: Scutelnic Adrian , Sutter Nathalie L. , Beyeler Morin , Meinel Thomas R. , Riederer Franz , Fischer Urs , Arnold Marcel , Mattle Heinrich P. , Jung Simon , Schankin Christoph J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Sometimes migraine aura changes from attack to attack, raising the question of whether the change is heralding an ischemic stroke or an unusual aura. Differentiating unusual migraine aura from the onset of an acute ischemic stroke in patients with migraine with aura (MwA) can be challenging.

Objective

The aim of this cohort study was to assess clinical characteristics that help distinguish between MwA and minor stroke in patients with a previous history of MwA who presented with suspicion of stroke.

Methods

We interviewed patients with MwA and ischemic stroke (MwA + IS) and patients with MwA and unusual aura, but without ischemic stroke (MwA − IS) from a tertiary hospital using a structured questionnaire. We assessed how symptoms of ischemic stroke or unusual aura differed from usual, that is, the typical aura in each patient. Stroke or exclusion of stroke was verified by multimodal magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

Seventeen patients with MwA + IS and twelve patients with MwA − IS were included. New focal neurological symptoms (13/17 [76%] vs. 3/12 [25%]), change of the first symptom (10/17 [59%] vs. 1/12 [8%]), and absence of headache (6/15 [40%] vs. 2/10 [20%]) were more often reported during ischemic stroke. The physical examination was normal in 8/17 (47%) MwA + IS and in 6/12 (50%) MwA − IS patients. In 5/17 (29%) patients with MwA + IS, there were unequivocal physical signs suggestive of stroke such as persistent visual loss, ataxia, or paresis.

Conclusion

There are clues from the history that might help identify stroke in patients with MwA with changed aura symptoms. These might be particularly useful in patients presenting without physical findings suggestive of stroke.
A randomized, open‐label, 5‐period crossover study evaluating the pharmacokinetics and safety of a single dose of intranasal dihydroergotamine (DHE) powder (STS101), intramuscular DHE mesylate, and liquid nasal spray DHE in healthy adults
Authors: Lipton Richard B. , Albrecht Detlef , Bermudez Maria , Hu Jerry , Hussey Elizabeth , Levy Jeff
Published: February 2024

Objective

To compare the safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of dihydroergotamine (DHE) after administration of intranasal DHE powder (STS101), liquid nasal spray (LNS) DHE mesylate, and intramuscular (IM) DHE mesylate injection in healthy participants.

Background

DHE is an effective acute migraine treatment; however, self‐administration difficulties have prevented its broader role in the management of migraine.

Methods

This randomized, active‐controlled, five‐period crossover study was conducted over 5 weeks separated by 1‐week washout periods. Three STS101 dosage strengths (5.2, 7.0, 8.6 mg), and one dose each of LNS DHE 2.0 mg, and IM DHE 1.0 mg, were administered to 36 healthy participants. Liquid chromatography, tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine DHE (including its 8′OH‐DHE metabolite) plasma levels and to calculate PK parameters (Cmax, Tmax, AUC0‐2h, AUC0‐last, AUC0‐inf, and t1/2). Safety was evaluated by monitoring adverse events (AEs), vital signs, electrocardiograms, nasal examinations, and laboratory parameters.

Results

Thirty‐six participants (mean age 36 years; 19% Hispanic Black and 81% Hispanic White) were enrolled. DHE plasma concentrations rose rapidly after STS101 5.2, 7.0, and 8.6 mg and IM DHE injection, with mean concentrations greater than 2000 pg/mL for all STS101 dose strengths at 20 min. All STS101 dose strengths showed approximately 3‐fold higher Cmax, AUC0‐2h, and AUC0‐inf, than the LNS DHE. The mean AUC0‐inf of STS101 7.0 and 8.6 mg were comparable to IM DHE (12,600 and 13,200 vs. 13,400 h × pg/mL). All STS101 dose strengths showed substantially lower variability (CV%) compared to LNS DHE for Cmax (35%–41% vs. 87%), and AUC0‐inf (37%–46% vs. 65%). STS101 was well tolerated, and all treatment‐emergent AEs were mild and transient.

Conclusion

STS101 showed rapid absorption and was well tolerated with mild and transient treatment‐emergent AEs. Achieving effective DHE plasma concentrations within 10 min, STS101 displayed a favorable PK profile relative to the LNS with higher Cmax, AUC0‐2h, and AUC0inf, and with greater response consistency. The AUC0‐inf was comparable to IM DHE.
Primary antibiotic resistance of Helicobacter pylori in India over the past two decades: A systematic review
Authors: Dutta Spriha , Jain Surbhi , Das Kunal , Verma Prashant , Som Anup , Das Rajashree
Published: February 2024

Background

Helicobacter pylori antibiotic resistance has undergone vast changes in the last two decades. No systematic review has been done on the prevalence of antibiotic resistant H. pylori in India in the last two decades. We evaluated the pattern of resistance rates across various regions of India.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review of the geographical variations in antibiotic resistance pattern of H. pylori was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Science Direct, etc. for articles published between January 1, 2000 and May 30, 2023. Random effects‐model‐based Cochran's Q test, I2 statistics, and chi‐squared tests were used to measure heterogeneity.

Results

The overall resistance was highest against metronidazole (77.65%) followed by amoxicillin (37.78%), levofloxacin (32.8%), clarithromycin (35.64%), furazolidone (12.03%), and tetracycline (11.63%). 14.7% of the H. pylori isolates were multi‐drug resistant. Under meta‐analysis of each antibiotic, high heterogeneity levels were observed having I2 ranges from 86.53% to 97.70% at p < 0.0001. In sub‐group analysis, Metronidazole has a stable rate of resistance as compared to other antibiotics. Other antibiotics have had a downtrend in the last 5 years except for levofloxacin, which has had an uptrend in the resistance rate for the past 5 years. Hence, one should avoid using metronidazole for any kind of first‐line treatment.

Conclusions

Metronidazole resistance is high in most regions of India except Assam and Mumbai while clarithromycin is found to be ineffective in South India, Gujarat, and Kashmir. As compared to other antibiotics, resistance to amoxicillin is generally low except in certain regions (Hyderabad, Chennai, and the Gangetic belt of North India). Tetracycline and Furazolidone have the least resistance rates and should be part of anti‐ H. pylori regimens. The resurgence of high single and multidrug resistance to the commonly used drugs suggests the need for newer antibiotics and regular resistance surveillance studies.
Effect of Er2O3/MgO ratio on mechanical and thermal properties of Si3N4 ceramics
Authors: Han Zhuoqun , Liu Jia , Wang Weiwei , Zhou Qingxuan , Zhao Zhicheng , Han Yongning , Wang Yingying , Wang Yang , Liu Futian , Li Ling
Published: February 2024

Si3N4 ceramics with high mechanical properties and thermal conductivity, exhibiting fine and bimodal microstructure, were prepared by adjusting the Er2O3/MgO ratio and hot‐pressing sintering at 1800°C for 4 h. The microstructure, grain distribution, lattice oxygen content, mechanical properties, and crack propagation process of the sintered bulk samples were systematically investigated. It was found that a low Er2O3/MgO ratio contributed to the densification of Si3N4 ceramics, whereas a high Er2O3/MgO ratio favored the grain growth of Si3N4 ceramics. In this research, the grain size distribution and average diameters as well as their impact on mechanical properties were examined. When the ratio of Er2O3/MgO was 3:1, Si3N4 had a larger average diameter and higher thermal conductivity, but the mechanical properties were somewhat reduced. When the ratio of Er2O3/MgO was 2:2, the sample displayed enhanced mechanical performance, which can be explained by the formation of a bimodal structure. The research indicates that it is feasible to control the microstructure and optimize the mechanical properties of Si3N4 ceramics by tailoring the sintering additives.
Crystallization and rheology of Na2O–CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 melt in the vitrification of technological waste
Authors: Perret D. , Sierk A. , Pereira Machado N. , Agullo J. , Laplace A. , Bardez‐Giboire I. , Hugon I.
Published: February 2024

Vitrification of solid technological waste is currently under investigation. For this type of waste made up of metals, minerals, and organic matters, formulation studies were carried out in the NCAS (Na2O–CaO–Al2O3–SiO2) system in order to define a vitrifying additive to treat the entire waste deposit, while maximizing the waste loading. Main challenge related to this type of waste comes from the presence of alumina in very large quantities in the glass/glass–ceramics melt, enhancing the risk of melt solidification due to a fast and massive crystallization. Melt lock‐up can potentially occur at the operating temperature envisaged for the process (1400°C) and is prohibitive because it would lead to a premature stoppage of the process. The results obtained from casting tests, rheological experiments, and thermodynamic modeling enabled to provide an accurate estimation of the risk of melt lock‐up for NCAS compositions. It was highlighted that the composition had a major influence on the temperature at which massive crystallization might occur. From all the results obtained, the maximum Al2O3 content that could be incorporated in the final material was determined to be close to 50 wt%. The composition of a vitrifying additive was also statistically designed to treat the technological waste of interest.
Analysis of the dermoscopic features of excised melanomas and their relation with tumor thickness in a tertiary hospital in Brazil
Authors: Ávila Ana C. A. , Avancini Joao , Abed Nubia M. , Pincelli Marcella S. , Neto Cyro F.
Published: February 2024

Background

Dermoscopy is a non‐invasive, cost‐effective tool useful in the assessment of pigmented lesions. The aim of this study was to analyze the dermoscopic features in excised melanomas in a tertiary hospital in Brazil and the influence of Breslow thickness on the dermoscopic features observed.

Methods

An observational, cross‐sectional study in which dermoscopic images of 43 melanomas were evaluated. The patients were divided into three groups: in situ, thin invasive melanoma (Breslow thickness <1 mm), and thick invasive melanoma (Breslow thickness ≥1 mm).

Results

We studied 33 patients with 43 melanomas. Twenty‐one (48.8%) were melanoma in situ, 16 (37.2%) were thin melanomas, and 6 (14%) were thick melanomas. The most frequent dermoscopic criteria observed in all cases were atypical pigment network, multiple colors (3 or more), asymmetrical blotches, and peripheral asymmetric dots and globules. There was a statistically significant difference in the three groups regarding the frequency of atypical vessels, white scar areas, blue‐white veil, shiny white structures, and radial streaming. The group of invasive melanomas presented with a higher frequency and statistical significance (P < 0.05) of atypical vessels, white scar areas, blue‐white veil, and shiny white structures when compared to in situ melanomas. The presence of radial streaming and blue‐white veil was more frequent in thick invasive melanomas than in thin invasive melanomas. The presence of a higher number of structures was seen in invasive melanomas, with a median of 5 and 7.5 structures for thin and thick invasive tumors, respectively.

Conclusions

In line with prior data, we identified an association between invasive melanomas and structures linked to fibrosis and tumor vascularity. Specifically, we noted the presence of atypical vessels, scar‐like white areas, a blue‐white veil, and shiny white structures. Also, a higher number of dermoscopic structures was seen in invasive melanomas. In thicker melanomas, we observed additional findings, including a higher frequency of radial streaming and a blue‐white veil.
From welfare to work: The health and material well‐being effects of long‐term employment subsidies in Germany
Authors: Bömmel Nadja , Coban Mustafa , Kasrin Zein , Schiele Maximilian , Wenzig Claudia , Wolff Joachim , Zabel Cordula
Published: February 2024

This paper analyses effects of subsidised, predominantly non‐standard, employment within the German labour market programme ‘participation in the labour market’ for long‐term welfare recipients on their health satisfaction, health‐based quality of life, satisfaction with standard of living and households' actual ownership of important goods (e.g., car or new clothes) or the lack thereof due to financial reasons. We differentiated subgroups by health, age and working hours. Data for participants and non‐participants (but entitled to welfare benefits) stem from the first two waves (2020/2021) of the panel survey ‘Quality of Life and Social Participation’. To identify causal effects, we employed matching methods based on administrative and survey data. Our findings show that 1 and 2 years after programme start, participation had significant positive effects on all indicators of health and standard of living. Thus, for the programme's focus group, subsidised employment, even if non‐standard, can contribute to improving health and material well‐being.
COVID‐19 vaccination: are more jabs needed or are we now immune?
Authors: Giles Michelle L. , Flanagan Katie L.
Published: February 2024

As the COVID‐19 pandemic has progressed, it has become apparent that COVID‐19 vaccination has limited impact on SAR‐CoV‐2 transmission and provides only short‐term protection against acquiring infection, but more robust protection against severe disease and death. As a result, vaccinated people remain susceptible to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection but are less likely to experience severe outcomes. Studies show that immunity derived from the combination of vaccination and natural infection, so‐called hybrid immunity, is superior to that provided by vaccination or natural infection alone. Since most Australian adults have received three or more doses of COVID‐19 vaccines and >70% have also been infected with SARS‐CoV‐2, we now have a population with high levels of hybrid immunity. This was mostly achieved by receiving original Wuhan strain vaccines and then experiencing Omicron strain infections. The original Wuhan strain of SARS‐CoV‐2 has now disappeared and been replaced with Omicron‐lineage variants globally. The predominance of the Omicron strain initially led to the development of bivalent vaccines containing both the Wuhan strain and Omicron variants. Currently, vaccines containing the original Wuhan strain of spike protein are being phased out, and new COVID‐19 vaccines based exclusively on the Omicron strain XBB have become available in Australia. This article explores the question of whether further doses will be required from 2024 onwards and, if so, who should receive them?
Exploring safety culture within inpatient mental health units: The results from participant observation across three mental health services
Authors: Molloy Luke , Wilson Val , O'Connor Michael , Merrick Tammy Tran , Guha Monica , Eason Michelle , Roche Michael
Published: February 2024

In Australia, acute inpatient units within public mental health services have become the last resort for mental health care. This research explored barriers and facilitators to safe, person‐centred, recovery‐oriented mental health care in these settings. It utilised participant observations conducted by mental health nurses in acute inpatient units. These units were located in three distinct facilities, each serving different areas: a large metropolitan suburban area in a State capital, a mid‐sized regional city, and a small city with a large rural catchment area. Our findings highlighted that, in the three inpatient settings, nurses tended to avoid common areas they shared with consumers, except for brief, task‐related visits. The prioritisation of administrative tasks seemed to arise in a situation where nurses lacked awareness of alternative practices and activities. Consumers spent prolonged periods of the day sitting in communal areas, where the main distraction was watching television. Boredom was a common issue across these environments. The nursing team structure in the inpatient units provided a mechanism for promoting a sense of psychological safety for staff and were a key element in how safety culture was sustained.
Association between stroke and venous leg ulcers: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xie Ruiye , Han Zhengyun , Liu Guoqing , Chen Lei
Published: February 2024

To investigate any potential bidirectional causal relationships between stroke and venous leg ulcers (VLUs), Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were carried out in this study. The exposure factor was stroke, the outcome factor was VLUs. The two‐sample MR study was carried out based on the online analysis platform (http://app.mrbase.org/). The association of stroke and VLUs was analysed via methods of Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW), Weighted Median, MR‐Egger and weighted mode. IVW method suggested no association between stroke and VLUs ((β 1.06; SE 9.321; p = 0.9095)). Weighted median estimator (β 5.906; SE 11.99, p = 0.6223), MR‐Egger (β −0.8677; SE 21.89; p = 0.9691) and weighted mode (β 9.336; SE 17.77; p = 0.6089) showed consistent results. Conversely, evidence indicating that the presence of VLUs increased the risk of stroke was lacking. According to this MR study, there is no causal connection between stroke and VLUs, which suggests that therapies targeting stroke may not be effective against VLUs.
Commentary: Health anxiety in youth during ‘COVID’ – some thoughts prompted by Rask et al. (2024)
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J.S. , Fearon Pasco
Published: February 2024

Researchers continue to count the short‐ and longer‐term mental health costs for children and adolescents of the COVID‐19 pandemic and the associated exceptional restrictions imposed by governments on their lives in an attempt to control the pandemic and its impacts. Despite being at low risk of serious physical illness from COVID‐19 themselves, some studies have reported a decline in the mental health of many young people during the pandemic. Some have suggested that this could even create a risk for long‐term morbidity. In this commentary, we reflect on the excellent article by Rask and colleagues on paediatric health anxiety and consider key research gaps for the field in general and for the specific challenges and questions posed by the COVID‐19 pandemic and its legacy.
High‐density lipoprotein in diabetes: Structural and functional relevance
Authors: Lui David Tak Wai , Tan Kathryn Choon Beng
Published: February 2024

Low levels of high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (HDL‐C) is considered a major cardiovascular risk factor. However, recent studies have suggested a more U‐shaped association between HDL‐C and cardiovascular disease. It has been shown that the cardioprotective effect of HDL is related to the functions of HDL particles rather than their cholesterol content. HDL particles are highly heterogeneous and have multiple functions relevant to cardiometabolic conditions including cholesterol efflux capacity, anti‐oxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and vasoactive properties. There are quantitative and qualitative changes in HDL as well as functional abnormalities in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Non‐enzymatic glycation, carbamylation, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation can modify the HDL composition and therefore the functions, especially in situations of poor glycemic control. Studies of HDL proteomics and lipidomics have provided further insights into the structure–function relationship of HDL in diabetes. Interestingly, HDL also has a pleiotropic anti‐diabetic effect, improving glycemic control through improvement in insulin sensitivity and β‐cell function. Given the important role of HDL in cardiometabolic health, HDL‐based therapeutics are being developed to enhance HDL functions rather than to increase HDL‐C levels. Among these, recombinant HDL and small synthetic apolipoprotein A‐I mimetic peptides may hold promise for preventing and treating diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Kinetic and artificial neural network modeling of dried black beauty eggplant (Solanum melongenaL.) slices during rehydration
Authors: İnan‐Çınkır Nuray , Süfer Özge , Pandiselvam Ravi
Published: February 2024

This paper targeted to investigate rehydration characteristics of dehydrated black beauty eggplant (which was dried under sun, by hot air, microwave, and infrared) at 25, 50, and 75°C, and to analyze rehydration ratio (RR) by artificial neural network (ANN) approach. RRs of both microwave‐processed specimens (between 5.66 and 7.91) and sun‐dried ones (between 5.38 and 6.37) were always greater than the others, at all rehydration temperatures. Rehydration temperature had an enhancing effect on RRs, and the image that closely resembled the fresh sample was captured in the microwave‐dried rehydrated samples. Nearly 180–240 min was adequate for rehydration of all slices. Zeroth‐ and first‐order kinetic models, Peleg, Peppas, and two‐term exponential decay models, as well as a new rational model were tested to describe rehydration kinetics. Two‐term equation was almost superior with high R2 (between 0.9734 and 0.9994) and the lowest root mean square error (RMSE) and χ2. Novel recommended mathematical expression was also successful (R2: 0.9679–0.9989, χ2: 0.0051–0.0975, RMSE: 0.0191–0.0866). Regarding relationship between actual and predicted RRs and performance indices of ANN equation, overall R and R2 were recorded as follows: 0.9975–0.9950 (sun‐dried) > 0.99642–0.9929 (hot air‐dried) > 0.9955–0.9911 (infrared‐dried) > 0.9907–0.9815 (microwave‐dried), respectively. The proposed ANN model and novel mathematical formula not only offer a considerable potential in predicting rehydration patterns and developing rehydration protocols in food production sector, but also contribute to save energy by completely understanding the process and optimizing conditions.

Practical applications

The eggplant is a cherished vegetable often dried, providing a velvety texture and rich taste in Anatolian recipes. In Anatolia, colorful vegetables are strung together on strings, adorning traditional houses, and serving as a testament to the region's deep‐rooted cultural heritage. The Turkic people in Central Asia demonstrated remarkable skill in preserving plants by carefully drying leaves, stems, or roots. The process of rehydration entails the addition of water to dehydrated eggplant slices in order to restore their initial dimensions and attributes for being consumed. This investigation integrates the utilization of ANNs to simulate the rehydration procedures of eggplant. This simulation can be employed for the purpose of quality control and standardization within the food sector. Hence, food manufacturers can anticipate the rehydration characteristics of their products across various production batches and conditions, thereby guaranteeing adherence to quality benchmarks.
Progressive stirred freeze concentration: Effect of operative parameters on vital statistics of beer
Authors: Osorio Manuel , Moreno Fabian Leonardo , Hernández Eduard , Ruiz Ruth Yolanda
Published: February 2024

Freeze concentration (FC), a low‐cost alternative technology to separate and concentrate high‐value compounds, was applied to three distinct craft ale beer styles—Witbier, Bitter, and Porter—to investigate its impact on vital beer statistics. A central composite design with freezing temperature and ice fraction as factors was employed, with response surface analysis revealing significant effects on the average ice growth rate (), concentration index (CI), and average distribution coefficient () of ethanol, total solids, color, and bitterness in the liquid fraction. Results showed that ice fraction primarily influenced solute concentrations and increased with ice fraction due to water removal. Freezing temperature affected . The type of beer had a significant impact on color and bitterness, reflecting the specific style parameters. Furthermore, response optimization yielded conditions that significantly altered beer statistics, leading to changes in ethanol content, total solids, color, and bitterness, possibly classifying them as new beer styles. The study demonstrates the potential of FC to influence the beer characteristics and broaden the range of beer styles.

Practical applications

Innovations in science and technology, added to the search for new beer styles, promote the development of new products in the beer industry. In this article, a potential use of the freeze concentration technology was identified for the development of new concentrated beer products. The impact of progressive stirred freeze concentration in three craft beers was studied. First, obtaining a concentrated beer from this technique was possible, with a higher concentration of total solids and ethanol. In addition, the vital statistics of beer could be modified using freeze concentration to obtain novel concentrated beer products.
Allulose‐crystallized fruits: Effect of non‐thermal air‐drying and UV‐A light dehydration of osmotic solutions
Authors: Karami Sajad , Bastarrachea Luis J.
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this research was to confirm the suitability of allulose to produce crystallized fruits under nonthermal conditions and the suitability of UV‐A light dehydration to concentrate the osmotic solutions. Mangoes and apples were subjected to osmotic drying with either sucrose or allulose, which was followed by an air‐drying step at room temperature to further concentrate the crystallized fruits. There was no significant difference in the dehydration kinetics parameters between the two sugars in each crystallized fruit. Color evaluations showed that allulose was able to better preserve the color of the original raw fruits in the final crystallized samples. Electron microscopy images suggested a more uniform diffusion of allulose as compared to sucrose for both fruits. Similarly, liquid chromatography and infrared spectroscopy analyses confirmed the successful absorption of both sugars into both fruits, with allulose having a final higher concentration in both mango and apple (51.7 ± 5.6% and 70.8 ± 7.7% w/w, respectively) as compared to sucrose (48.6 ± 2.9% and 58.3 ± 3.4% w/w, respectively). UV‐A light dehydration showed to be able to increase the recovery of the sugars from osmotic solutions better than in conditions without UV‐A light exposure. When only air flow was used, it was possible to remove 85.3 ± 4.6% and 78.6 ± 0.6% of the original moisture in the sucrose and allulose solutions, respectively. In contrast, under UV‐A light dehydration, the percentage of the original water removed from the sucrose and allulose solutions was 95.2 ± 1.8% and 83.1 ± 1.9%, respectively.

Practical applications

There is an increasing trend toward producing foods that are healthier for the general population. The use of rare sugars like allulose offers a promising alternative to accomplishing this. In addition, it has become imperative to develop processes that are more sustainable. The use of air‐drying at room temperature can represent an effective approach to develop more sustainable food manufacturing processes. More specifically, the use of UV‐A light dehydration (which is a non‐thermal food dehydration technique) for the recovery of solutes or the concentration of osmotic solutions can also represent an effective aid in this type of processes.