bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collaboration between Criminal Justice and Child Protection in Cases of Child Sexual Abuse: Unveiling Inhibiting and Facilitating Factors
Authors: Eilfgang Justine , Bayer Lennart , Cigelski Maike , Mensing Frieda , von Seeler Isabelle , Sewald Harriet , Pülschen Simone
Published: April 2024

Victims of child sexual abuse (CSA) in criminal proceedings face a range of stress factors. In response to this, collaboration between criminal justice and child protection professionals has been established both legally and informally, such as in the newly established Childhood Houses in Germany, which follow the model of the Scandinavian Barnahus to reduce stress and prevent revictimisation. This study intends to identify facilitating and inhibiting factors in the collaboration between the child protection and criminal justice systems in cases of CSA in Germany. Twenty‐eight qualitative interviews with experts from child protection, like counselling centre employees (n = 5), psychosocial court supporters (n = 5) and youth welfare office workers (n = 5), and the criminal justice system, like prosecutors (n = 5), police officers (n = 5) and attorneys (n = 3). The interviews are structured by a questionnaire and analysed using Kuckartz's method of qualitative content analysis (QCA). Findings show that key factors like information flow, assessments of collaboration partners, uncertainties about laws and actors' perspectives on reporting and networking determine the success or failure of interagency collaboration.
Chemical Investigation and Antinociceptive Activity Evaluation of Marrubium Vulgare L. Aqueous Extract
Authors: Aitbaba Abdelfatah , Kabdy Hamid , Baslam Abdelmounaim , Azraida Hajar , Aboufatima Rachida , El Yazouli Loubna , Sokar Zahra , Garzoli Stefania , Chait Abderrahman
Published: April 2024

Marrubium vulgare L. (Lamiaceae) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of respiratory tract infections, inflammatory conditions, and pain. This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition, acute toxicity, and antinociceptive effects of the aqueous extract from M. vulgare leaves (AEMV). Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH and reducing power assays. The chemical composition of AEMV was determined through LC–MS/MS, and the levels of total phenolics, flavonoids, and condensed tannins were quantified. Acute oral toxicity was assessed in male Swiss mice with a single oral dose of AEMV (1, 2, 5 g/kg). The analgesic impact was examined through writhing, hot plate, and formalin tests. Our findings not only confirmed the safety of the extract in animal models but also revealed significant antioxidant activity in AEMV. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis identified important bioactive compounds, with marrubiin being a major component. Furthermore, AEMV demonstrated robust antinociceptive properties in all conducted tests, highlighting its potential as a valuable natural source of bioactive compounds suitable for a wide range of therapeutic applications.
Untargeted Metabolomic to Access Chemical Differences Induced by Dual Endophyte Cultures Isolated from Euphorbia Umbellata
Authors: Santos Gusmão Amanda , Silva Conceição João Carlos , Moreira de Queiros Santos Stefane , Lima Sampaio Pereira Cecilia , Siqueira de Almeida Chaves Douglas , de Jesus Nicácio Karen , Aparecida Chagas‐Paula Daniela , de Oliveira Silva Eliane
Published: April 2024

Endophytic fungi live asymptomatically inside vegetal tissues, and such uncommon habitat contributes to their exceptional chemical diversity. Isolating natural products from endophytic fungi could fail due to silent biosynthetic gene clusters under ordinary in vitro culture conditions, and co‐culturing has been assayed to trigger their metabolism. We carried out single and dual cultures with 13 endophyte strains isolated from Euphorbia umbellata leaves. Multivariate statistics applied to untargeted metabolomics compared the chemical profiles of all endophyte cultures. PCA analysis guided the selection of the Aspergillus pseudonomiae J1 – Porogramme brasiliensis J9 dual culture for its most significant chemical differentiation: Five compounds were putatively annotated in the J1−J9 culture according to UHPLC‐HRMS data, kojic acid, haliclonol and its diastereoisomer, caffeic acid, and 2‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)acetaldehyde. Analysis by PLS‐DA using VIP score showed that kojic acid displayed the most significative importance in discriminating single and dual J1−J9 cultures.
Retrobisabolane A, a Novel Bisabolane‐Derived Sesquiterpenoid Isolated from Deep‐Sea‐Derived Fungus Retroconis fusiformis MCCC 3A00792
Authors: Liu Xin , Lv Yinghui , He Jianlin , Hong Bihong , Shao Zongze , Yu Miao , Niu Siwen
Published: April 2024

One novel bisabolane‐derived sesquiterpenoid retrobisabolane A (1), featuring a methyl group location at the C‐4 position instead of C‐3 in the bisabolanes, and a known ester‐substituted eremophilane‐type sesquiterpenoid cryptosphaerolide (2), along with three known indole alkaloids (3–5) were discovered from the fermented cultures of a deep‐sea‐derived fungus Retroconis fusiformis MCCC 3A00792. The planar structure of new compound 1 was determined by extensive analysis of the NMR and HRESIMS spectra. The relative and absolute configurations of 1 were resolved by the coupling constant (J), calculation of ECD and NMR spectra, and the DP4+ probability analysis of the 1H and 13C NMR data. Interestingly, retrobisabolane A was the new subclass of bisabolanes bearing a methyl group linkage at C‐4 instead of C‐3 position. Three human cancer cell lines (Hela, AGS, and BIU‐87) were subjected to evaluate the cytotoxic activities of compounds 1–5. As a result, compound 2 exhibited significant inhibitory activities against three cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 9.95 to 18.77 μM.
Adenosine increases PD‐L1 expression in mesenchymal stromal cells derived from cervical cancer through its interaction with A2AR/A2BR and the production of TGF‐β1
Authors: Marín‐Aquino Luis Antonio , Mora‐García María de Lourdes , Moreno‐Lafont Martha C. , García‐Rocha Rosario , Montesinos‐Montesinos Juan José , López‐Santiago Ruben , Sánchez‐Torres Luvia Enid , Torres‐Pineda Daniela Berenice , Weiss‐Steider Benny , Hernández‐Montes Jorge , Don‐López Christian Azucena , Monroy‐García Alberto
Published: April 2024

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) together with malignant cells present in the tumor microenvironment (TME), participate in the suppression of the antitumor immune response through the production of immunosuppressive factors, such as transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF‐β1). In previous studies, we reported that adenosine (Ado), generated by the adenosinergic activity of cervical cancer (CeCa) cells, induces the production of TGF‐β1 by interacting with A2AR/A2BR. In the present study, we provide evidence that Ado induces the production of TGF‐β1 in MSCs derived from CeCa tumors (CeCa‐MSCs) by interacting with both receptors and that TGF‐β1 acts in an autocrine manner to induce the expression of programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) in CeCa‐MSCs, resulting in an increase in their immunosuppressive capacity on activated CD8+ T lymphocytes. The addition of the antagonists ZM241385 and MRS1754, specific for A2AR and A2BR, respectively, or SB‐505124, a selective TGF‐β1 receptor inhibitor, in CeCa‐MSC cultures significantly inhibited the expression of PD‐L1. Compared with CeCa‐MSCs, MSCs derived from normal cervical tissue (NCx‐MSCs), used as a control and induced with Ado to express PD‐L1, showed a lower response to TGF‐β1 to increase PD‐L1 expression. Those results strongly suggest the presence of a feedback mechanism among the adenosinergic pathway, the production of TGF‐β1, and the induction of PD‐L1 in CeCa‐MSCs to suppress the antitumor response of CD8+ T lymphocytes. The findings of this study suggest that this pathway may have clinical importance as a therapeutic target.
Therapeutic benefit of oregano oil in the acute idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats: Adverse effects of high dose of oreganum
Authors: Suljević Damir , Fočak Muhamed , Škrijelj Rifat , Mitrašinović‐Brulić Maja
Published: April 2024

Toxicity caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) can lead to serious liver injury. The aim of the study is to investigate the protective effects of oregano oil (Origanum minutiflorum extract oil) against CCl4‐induced liver injury. Two doses of oregano oil were used in the experiment: a low dose (LD; 20 mg/kg) and a high dose (HD; 60 mg/kg) during 2 weeks. CCl4 caused severe liver damage, nucleolus destruction in hepatocytes and cytogenetic changes in the nucleus. Indirectly, CCl4 causes decreased protein synthesis and significantly high creatinine and urea values. Hematological disorders have been recorded, such as decreased RBC and hemoglobin concentration, increased WBC and deformability of the erythrocyte membrane. Both doses of oregano oil had protective effects. Improved protein synthesis and high globulins level, creatinine and urea were found in both groups. Cytogenetic changes in the nucleus of hepatocytes were reduced. A high dose of oregano oil had maximal protective effects for RBC, but a very weak effect on hemoglobin synthesis. Also, WBC and lymphocyte values were low. Origanum stimulates protein synthesis and recovery of hepatocytes after liver injury, reduces the deformability of the erythrocyte membrane. High doses of oregano oil decreased WBC and lymphocytes which may lead to a weakening of the immune response. However, high doses are more effective against severe platelet aggregation than low doses, suggesting an effective treatment against thrombocytosis.
Can lithium be used in the setting of clozapine commencement in patients with COVID‐19 associated neutropenia: A case report
Authors: Tan Jin Quan Eugene , Dawson Jessica L. , Bastiampillai Tarun
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

COVID‐19 infection may increase the likelihood of neutropenia in patients already on clozapine. In clozapine treated patients experiencing COVID‐19 associated neutropenia, adjunct therapy with lithium can be considered.
Surface Engineering of the Mechanical Properties of Molecular Crystals via an Atomistic Model for Computing the Facet Stress Response of Solids
Authors: Almehairbi Mubarak , Joshi Vikram C. , Irfan Ahamad , Saeed Zeinab M. , Alkhidir Tamador , Abdelhaq Aya M. , Managutti Praveen B. , Dhokale Bhausaheb , Jadhav Thaksen , Calvin Sun Changquan , Mohamed Sharmarke
Published: April 2024

Dynamic molecular crystals are an emerging class of crystalline materials that can respond to mechanical stress by dissipating internal strain in a number of ways. Given the serendipitous nature of the discovery of such crystals, progress in the field requires advances in computational methods for the accurate and high–throughput computation of the nanomechanical properties of crystals on specific facets which are exposed to mechanical stress. Here, we develop and apply a new atomistic model for computing the surface elastic moduli of crystals on any set of facets of interest using dispersion–corrected density functional theory (DFT−D) methods. The model was benchmarked against a total of 24 reported nanoindentation measurements from a diverse set of molecular crystals and was found to be generally reliable. Using only the experimental crystal structure of the dietary supplement, L–aspartic acid, the model was subsequently applied under blind test conditions, to correctly predict the growth morphology, facet and nanomechanical properties of L–aspartic acid to within the accuracy of the measured elastic stiffness of the crystal, 24.53±0.56 GPa. This work paves the way for the computational design and experimental realization of other functional molecular crystals with tailor–made mechanical properties.
Near‐Infrared‐II Nanomaterials for Activatable Photodiagnosis and Phototherapy
Authors: Jiang Wanying , Lin Lisheng , Wu Ping , Lin Hongxin , Sui Jian
Published: April 2024

Near‐Infrared‐II (NIR‐II) spans wavelengths between 1,000 to 1,700 nanometers, featuring deep tissue penetration and reduced tissue scattering and absorption characteristics, providing robust support for cancer treatment and tumor imaging research. This review explores the utilization of activatable NIR‐II photodiagnosis and phototherapy based on tumor microenvironments (e. g., reactive oxygen species, pH, glutathione, hypoxia) and external stimulation (e. g., laser, ultrasound, photothermal) for precise tumor treatment and imaging. Special emphasis is placed on the advancements and advantages of activatable NIR‐II nanomedicines in novel therapeutic modalities like photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and photoacoustic imaging. This encompasses achieving deep tumor penetration, real‐time monitoring of the treatment process, and obtaining high‐resolution, high signal‐to‐noise ratio images even at low material concentrations. Lastly, from a clinical perspective, the challenges faced by activatable NIR‐II phototherapy are discussed, alongside potential strategies to overcome these hurdles.
Nucleic Acid Materials‐Mediated Innate Immune Activation for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Xu Xinyu , Hong Yuxuan , Fan Huanhuan , Guo Zijian
Published: April 2024

Abnormally localized nucleic acids (NAs) are considered as pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) in innate immunity. They are recognized by NAs‐specific pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), leading to the activation of associated signaling pathways and subsequent production of type I interferons (IFNs) and pro‐inflammatory cytokines, which further trigger the adaptive immunity. Notably, NAs‐mediated innate immune activation is highly dependent on the conformation changes, especially the aggregation of PRRs. Evidence indicates that the characteristics of NAs including their length, concentration and even spatial structure play essential roles in inducing the aggregation of PRRs. Therefore, nucleic acid materials (NAMs) with high valency of NAs and high‐order structures hold great potential for activating innate and adaptive immunity, making them promising candidates for cancer immunotherapy. In recent years, a variety of NAMs have been developed and have demonstrated significant efficacy in achieving satisfactory anti‐tumor immunity in multiple mouse models, exhibiting huge potential for clinical application in cancer treatment. This review aims to discuss the mechanisms of NAMs‐mediated innate immune response, and summarize their applications in cancer immunotherapy.
Mechanisms underlying the gut–brain communication: How enterochromaffin (EC) cells activate vagal afferent nerve endings in the small intestine
Authors: Spencer Nick J. , Kyloh Melinda A. , Travis Lee , Hibberd Timothy J
Published: April 2024

How the gastrointestinal tract communicates with the brain, via sensory nerves, is of significant interest for our understanding of human health and disease. Enterochromaffin (EC) cells in the gut mucosa release a variety of neurochemicals, including the largest quantity of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) in the body. How 5‐HT and other substances released from EC cells activate sensory nerve endings in the gut wall remains a major unresolved mystery. We used in vivo anterograde tracing from nodose ganglia to determine the spatial relationship between 5‐HT synthesizing and peptide‐YY (PYY)‐synthesizing EC cells and their proximity to vagal afferent nerve endings that project to the mucosa of mouse small intestine. The shortest mean distances between single 5‐HT‐ and PYY‐synthesizing EC cells and the nearest vagal afferent nerve endings in the mucosa were 33.1 ± 14.4 µm (n = 56; N = 6) and 70.3 ± 32.3 µm (n = 16; N = 6). No morphological evidence was found to suggest that 5‐HT‐ or PYY‐containing EC cells form close morphological associations with vagal afferents endings, or varicose axons of passage. The large distances between EC cells and vagal afferent endings are many hundreds of times greater than those known to underlie synaptic transmission in the nervous system (typically 10–15 nm). Taken together, the findings lead to the inescapable conclusion that communication between 5‐HT‐containing EC cells and vagal afferent nerve endings in the mucosa of the mouse small intestinal occurs in a paracrine fashion, via diffusion.

New and Noteworthy None of the findings here are consistent with a view that close physical contacts occur between 5‐HT‐containing EC cells and vagal afferent nerve endings in mouse small intestine. Rather, the findings suggest that gut–brain communication between EC cells and vagal afferent endings occurs via passive diffusion. The morphological data presented do not support the view that EC cells are physically close enough to vagal afferent endings to communicate via fast synaptic transmission.
Research on PSO‐SVM base wine grade recognition based on Max‐Relevance and Min‐Redundancy feature selection
Authors: Yang Jiaping , Ren Dongping , Liu Yong , Zhou Hailong , Sun Yunquan
Published: April 2024

In response to the challenges inherent in Baijiu classification, characterized by ambiguity and limited methodologies, this study introduces a novel framework for comprehensive Baijiu brewing process management. By integrating mathematical models and machine learning algorithms, our aim is to standardize and enhance the accuracy of the Baijiu brewing process. Through a meticulous analysis of 13 input features using the MRMR algorithm, we identified key variables that significantly influence base wine grades. Subsequently, we compared the efficacy of support vector machine (SVM) algorithms under three kernel functions for base wine grading classification. Additionally, we developed an enhanced particle swarm‐support vector machine (IPSO‐SVM) algorithm, which incorporates nonlinearly decreasing inertia weights to enhance global and local search capabilities. Evaluation metrics, including accuracy and F1‐SCORE, were employed to assess the model's performance. Our experimental results demonstrate that IPSO‐SVM significantly improves convergence speed and accuracy, achieving a classification accuracy of 98.31% on the test set with an F1‐SCORE of 98.18%. Furthermore, experimental tests conducted at a prominent strong‐flavored wine enterprise in China validated the model's effectiveness, revealing no significant difference in grading quality between model and manual Baijiu classification, with a mean error below 1%. This study presents a pioneering approach to digitize and standardize Baijiu classification processes, laying theoretical foundations for the development of intelligent Baijiu classification systems.
Analysis of factors influencing market participation among orange‐fleshed sweet potato smallholder farmers in southern region of Malawi: A case of RTC project
Authors: Chikhawo McDonald , Katengeza Samson , Okello Julius J. , Phiri M. Alexander. R. , Chipungu Felistus
Published: April 2024

Agricultural markets remain major issue downgrading root and tuber crop farmers who form the mainstream of the agricultural producers in Malawi. Recent evidence however reveals that orange‐fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) (Ipomea batatas) is currently being sold in produce markets along with the non‐orange varieties, sometimes in differentiated form in Malawi. The main objective of this study was to examine factors affecting market participation of sweet potato farmers in southern region of Malawi. Using a double‐hurdle model, this paper analyzed both the factors affecting farmer decision to participate and the extent/intensity of participation in market. The first tier of the double hurdle focused on decision to participate in the market using probit model and the second tier addressed factors affecting intensity of participation using truncated normal regression model. The paper used data collected from 360 farmers in southern districts of Malawi. Out of 360, 146 farmers had grown OFSP in the season preceding the survey. Double hurdle results indicate that farm size, output, age of a farmer (household head), and early maturing trait significantly determined decision to participate in the market. Further, results on intensity of participation indicate that access to market training, farm size, asset value, and output positively determined the intensity and negatively determined by distance to main market and gender of a farmer (household head). Based on the research findings, higher output levels and early maturing trait were found to increase smallholder farmer market participation. It is therefore recommended that strategies aimed at increasing household capacity to produce surplus produce through market tailored extension messages and productivity enhancement technologies could be highly effective in fostering smallholders' participation in commercial markets. Again, enhanced capacity building of research institutions to breed sweet potato varieties based on market demand is pivotal for increased market participation. Furthermore, research suggests that improving smallholder farmers' access to market price information, asset value, and farm size can help increase their intensity in the market. Therefore, it is critical for policymakers to holistically comprehend these socioeconomic factors in order to address the issue of smallholder farm households' decisions about market participation and the degree to which they participate.
Hydrogenolysis of Poly(Ethylene‐co‐Vinyl Alcohol) and Related Polymer Blends over Ruthenium Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Oberhausen Christine M. , Mahajan Jignesh S. , Sun Jessie A. , Epps Thomas H. , Korley LaShanda T. J. , Vlachos Dionisios G.
Published: April 2024

The hydrogenolysis of polymers is emerging as a promising approach to deconstruct plastic waste into valuable chemicals. Yet, the complexity of plastic waste, including multilayer packaging, is a significant barrier to handling realistic waste streams. Herein, we reveal fundamental insights into a new chemical route for transforming a previously unaddressed fraction of plastic waste – poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl alcohol) (EVOH) and related polymer blends – into alkane products. We report that Ru/ZrO2 is active for the concurrent hydrogenolysis, hydrogenation, and hydrodeoxygenation of EVOH and its thermal degradation products into alkanes (C1−C35) and water. Detailed reaction data, product analysis, and catalyst characterization reveal that the in‐situ thermal degradation of EVOH forms aromatic intermediates that are detrimental to catalytic activity. Increased hydrogen pressure promotes hydrogenation of these aromatics, preventing catalyst deactivation and improving alkane product yields. Calculated apparent rates of C−C scission reveal that the hydrogenolysis of EVOH is slower than low‐density polyethylene. We apply these findings to achieve hydrogenolysis of EVOH/polyethylene blends and elucidate the sensitivity of hydrogenolysis catalysts to such blends. Overall, we demonstrate progress towards efficient catalytic processes for the hydroconversion of waste multilayer film plastic packaging into valuable products.
Pancreatic stent migration into the main pancreatic duct during endoscopic papillary balloon dilation
Authors: Murabayashi Toji , Kawabata Mayu , Sugimoto Shinya
Published: April 2024

We report the first case of pancreatic stent (PS) migration placed early into the main pancreatic duct (MPD) during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) due to subsequent endoscopic papillary balloon dilation. A 74‐year‐old woman who complained of fever and abdominal pain was diagnosed with acute calculous cholangitis. On ERCP, a needle‐knife precut papillotomy was performed from the orifice because of difficult cannulation. Because of unintentional guidewire insertion into the MPD from the orifice, a PS with bilateral flaps was promptly placed to prevent post‐ERCP pancreatitis. After successful biliary cannulation from the orifice alongside the PS, endoscopic papillary balloon dialtion was performed, leading to PS migration into the MPD during the dilation. Two days after the first ERCP, the migrated PS was successfully removed on the second ERCP. The strategy of early PS placement in the ERCP session appears theoretically promising for preventing post‐ERCP pancreatitis. However, early PS placement during the ERCP session should be noted to pose the risk of migration into the MPD, especially when pushing the device into the bile duct.
Feasibility of comprehensive genomic profiling using endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition with a 22‐gauge Franseen needle
Authors: Ishigaki Kazunaga , Nakai Yousuke , Endo Go , Kurihara Kohei , Ishida Kota , Tange Shuichi , Fukuda Rintaro , Takaoka Shinya , Tokito Yurie , Suzuki Yukari , Oyama Hiroki , Kanai Sachiko , Suzuki Tatsunori , Sato Tatsuya , Hakuta Ryunosuke , Saito Tomotaka , Hamada Tsuyoshi , Takahara Naminatsu , Shinozaki‐Ushiku Aya , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: April 2024

Aim

Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) test for solid tumors is now increasingly utilized in clinical practice, especially in pancreatobiliary cancer, and specimens obtained by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition (EUS‐TA) are often submitted for tissue‐based CGP test. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of EUS‐TA using a 22‐gauge Franseen needle for the CGP test.

Methods

Consecutive patients with solid tumors who underwent EUS‐TA using a 22‐gauge Franseen needle, and whose tissue samples were pre‐checked for suitability for CGP test, were included in this single‐center, retrospective analysis. The success rates of appropriate sample collection for CGP evaluated by pathologists (1st quality control) and CGP test (2nd quality control) were evaluated. In addition, The EUS‐TA slides were evaluated for the tissue area and tumor area content, using the image software.

Results

A total of 50 cases, with 78% of pancreatic cancer, were included in the analysis. A median of 3 passes of EUS‐TA were performed with an adverse event rate of 4%. The success rates for 1st and 2nd quality control for CGP tests were 86% and 76%, respectively. The image analyses suggested EUS‐TA specimen did not always fulfill CGP test criteria, with 18% of tissue area ≥16 mm2 and 38% of tumor area content ≥20%, even in cases with successful CGP tests. The suction method yielded a significantly larger amount of DNA but without a significant difference in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated the feasibility of EUS‐TA using a 22‐gauge Franseen needle for CGP test.
Weight gained during treatment predicts 6‐month body mass index in a large sample of patients with anorexia nervosa using ensemble machine learning
Authors: Frank Guido K. W. , Stoddard Joel J. , Brown Tiffany , Gowin Josh , Kaye Walter H.
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study used machine learning methods to analyze data on treatment outcomes from individuals with anorexia nervosa admitted to a specialized eating disorders treatment program.

Methods

Of 368 individuals with anorexia nervosa (209 adolescents and 159 adults), 160 individuals had data available for a 6‐month follow‐up analysis. Participants were treated in a 6‐day‐per‐week partial‐hospital program. Participants were assessed for eating disorder‐specific and non‐specific psychopathology. The analyses used established machine learning procedures combined in an ensemble model from support vector machine learning, random forest prediction, and the elastic net regularized regression with an exploration (training; 75%) and confirmation (test; 25%) split of the data.

Results

The models predicting body mass index (BMI) at 6‐month follow‐up explained a 28.6% variance in the training set (n = 120). The model had good performance in predicting 6‐month BMI in the test dataset (n = 40), with predicted BMI significantly correlating with actual BMI (r = .51, p = 0.01). The change in BMI from admission to discharge was the most important predictor, strongly correlating with reported BMI at 6‐month follow‐up (r = .55). Behavioral variables were much less predictive of BMI outcome. Results were similar for z‐transformed BMI in the adolescent‐only group. Length of stay was most predictive of weight gain in treatment (r = .56) but did not predict longer‐term BMI.

Conclusions

This study, using an agnostic ensemble machine learning approach in the largest to‐date sample of individuals with anorexia nervosa, suggests that achieving weight gain goals in treatment predicts longer‐term weight‐related outcomes. Other potential predictors, personality, mood, or eating disorder‐specific symptoms were relatively much less predictive.

Public Significance

The results from this study indicate that the amount of weight gained during treatment predicts BMI 6 months after discharge from a high level of care. This suggests that patients require sufficient time in a higher level of care treatment to meet their specific weight goals and be able to maintain normal weight.
Association of lactate/albumin ratio with 3‐month readmission risk in heart failure patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Sun Hui , Wang Baiqiang , An Guipeng , Zhang Yun , Ma Lianyue
Published: April 2024

Aims

The predictive value of the lactate/albumin ratio (LAR) in mortality is established in various conditions, yet its relevance to 3‐month readmission risk in Chinese adults with heart failure (HF) remains unclear.

Method and results

Analysing data from 957 patients with HF at Zigong Fourth People's Hospital, Sichuan, China (December 2016 to June 2019), we assessed baseline characteristics, vital signs, comorbidities, and prescriptions. LAR demonstrated a linear correlation with 3‐month readmission risk (HR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.19–2.16). Tertile 3 (≥−0.48) exhibited higher risk than tertile 1 (<−0.83) and tertile 2 [−0.83, −0.48), with HRs and 95% CI of 1.49 (1.06–2.10), 1.43 (1.01–2.02), 1.48 (1.03–2.12), respectively. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses affirmed consistent influence of LAR on 3‐month readmission risk for HF.

Conclusions

Higher LAR significantly correlates with increased 3‐month readmission risk in Chinese adult patients with HF, suggesting LAR is a valuable predictor for early readmission.
Reporting quality of heart failure randomized controlled trials 2000–2020: Temporal trends in adherence to CONSORT criteria
Authors: Jalloh Mohamed B. , Bot Veronica A. , Borjaille Cristiana Z. , Thabane Lehana , Li Guowei , Butler Javed , Zannad Faiez , Granger Christopher B. , Van Spall Harriette G.C.
Published: April 2024

Aim

Heart failure (HF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) inform HF policy and practice, but the accurate interpretation of results is contingent on clear and transparent reporting. The CONsolidated Standards Of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement serves as a guide to RCT reporting. We evaluated the quality of reporting in HF RCTs in high‐impact journals by assessing their adherence to CONSORT.

Methods and results

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL for HF RCTs published in high‐impact journals 2000–2020. We assessed the proportion of CONSORT criteria that individual HF RCTs adhered to, and used the Jonckheere–Terpstra test to examine temporal trends in adherence. Multivariable linear regression explored the association between trial characteristics and adherence to CONSORT. Primary analysis assessed adherence to CONSORT 2010 update. A sensitivity analysis assessed adherence to the original (1996) CONSORT criteria. Among 221 RCTs analysed, the mean (standard deviation [SD]) adherence was suboptimal overall (mean [SD] adherence 69.7 [11.5]%) (5513/7913 criteria), with a temporal increase in adherence over the 20‐year period (p < 0.001). Factors associated with adherence included publication after versus during/before 2010 (β = 10.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 7.64–12.70; p < 0.001); two‐group parallel individual‐level randomization versus other (including multi‐group or cluster randomization) (β = 5.81, 95% CI 2.88–8.73; p < 0.001); and multicentre versus single‐centre trials (β = 7.26, 95% CI 3.25–11.27; p < 0.001). There was no difference in trial adherence to the updated CONSORT (2010) versus the original (1996) CONSORT criteria, and temporal trends in adherence to both sets of criteria were similar, likely due to overlap between the two sets of criteria. Trials with greater adherence to CONSORT were published in higher impact factor journals, with a positive correlation (r = 0.312; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The quality of reporting in HF RCTs, as measured by CONSORT adherence, has improved over time but remains suboptimal.
Electrophoresis of a weakly charged dielectric fluid droplet in a cylindrical pore
Authors: Lu Shirley , Tseng Jessica , Chuang Lily , Chang Nemo , Chen Sunny , Hsu Celia , Chien Jean , Lin Carol , Lee Eric
Published: April 2024

Electrophoresis of a weakly charged dielectric droplet with constant surface charge density in a chargeless cylindrical pore is investigated theoretically in this study, focusing on the boundary confinement effect of the double layer, which in turn determines the ultimate motion of the droplet. A patched pseudo‐spectral method based on the Chebyshev polynomial is adopted to solve the resulting governing fundamental electrokinetic equations. Mobility reversal, among other interesting phenomena, is observed when the droplet is in a narrow cylindrical pore. No such observation was made in the corresponding motion of a rigid particle. The droplet with a thick double layer may even move against the prediction based on the Coulomb electrostatic law, for instance, a positively charged droplet may move against the electric field. The significant enhancement of the motion‐deterring double layer polarization due to the severe steric boundary confinement within a narrow cylindrical pore is found to be responsible for this seemingly peculiar phenomenon. Moreover, smaller droplets may move in the opposite direction of the larger ones. The results are useful in capillary electrophoresis involving droplets in particular and migration of droplets through narrow channels in general.
Comparative Evaluation of Graphite Anode Structuring for Lithium‐Ion Batteries Using Laser Ablation and Mechanical Embossing
Authors: Hille Lucas , Keilhofer Josef , Mazur Roman , Daub Ruediger , Zaeh Michael F.
Published: April 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries inherently suffer from a target conflict between a high energy density and a high power density. The creation of microscopic holes in the electrodes alleviates the trade‐off by facilitating lithium‐ion diffusion. This study presents a novel concept for electrode structuring called structure calendering, combining mechanical embossing (MEC) and calendering. It is compared to the widely investigated laser ablation (LAS) process by structuring graphite anodes and examining their geometrical, mechanical, and electrochemical properties. It is shown that structure calendering results in wider and deeper holes of higher reproducibility than laser structuring. As a consequence of the different hole‐creation mechanisms, laser structuring induces a surface elevation around the holes while clogged pores are observed in the lateral walls of mechanically structured holes. In pull‐off tests, no pronounced impact of electrode structuring on the mechanical electrode properties is discerned. Structuring of electrodes using both methods yields significantly reduced electrode tortuosities and enhanced discharge rate performances. From a production engineering perspective, structure calendering has advantages over laser structuring in terms of material loss, processing rate, and investment costs, while the latter offers higher flexibility, precision, and presumably lower maintenance efforts. In conclusion, structure calendering represents an attractive process alternative to laser structuring.
Impact of depressive symptoms on adverse effects in people with epilepsy on antiseizure medication therapy
Authors: Panholzer Jürgen , Hauser Amadeus , Thamm Nadia , Gröppel Gudrun , Yazdi‐Zorn Kurosch , von Oertzen Tim J.
Published: April 2024

Objective

We studied the impact of depressive symptoms on adverse effects (AEs) in people with epilepsy (PWE) on antiseizure medication (ASM) therapy. An effect of depression on the AE burden has already been reported. We studied the correlation of various depressive symptoms with specific AEs to assess which AEs are especially prone to being confounded by particular depressive symptoms.

Methods

PWE filled in a variety of questionnaires including the “Neurological Disorder Depression Inventory for Epilepsy” (NDDI‐E), “Emotional Thermometers 4” (ET4) and “Liverpool Adverse Events Profile” (LAEP). Depression was defined by a NDDI‐E score > 13. Depressive symptoms consisted of NDDI‐E and ET4 items. Discriminant analysis identified those AEs (=LAEP items) that were most highly influenced by depression. Logistic regression analysis yielded correlations of different depressive symptoms with specific AEs.

Results

We included 432 PWE. The strongest discriminators for depression were the LAEP items “Depression”, “Nervousness/agitation,” and “Tiredness”. Out of all depressive symptoms “Everything I do is a struggle” most strongly correlated with total LAEP score (odds ratio [OR] = 3.1) and correlated with all but one LAEP item. Other depressive symptoms correlated to varying degrees with total LAEP and item scores. The number of ASMs, lack of seizure remission, and female gender correlated with high LAEP scores.

Significance

To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to show that various depressive symptoms correlate with specific LAEP items. This information can be helpful for quick evaluation of whether the reporting of different LAEP items may be confounded by particular depressive symptoms. This is relevant because changes in therapy may differ depending on if AEs are confounded by depressive symptoms. Simply reporting a particular depressive symptom may give a clue to whether specific AEs are confounded by depression. Our findings confirm the importance of screening for depression in all PWE.

Plain Language Summary

In this study we measured depressive disorder and side effects caused by medication used to treat epilepsy with self‐reported questionnaires in a cohort of people with epilepsy. We found depressive disorder to influence the perception of side effects that are caused by drugs used to treat epilepsy. This knowledge can help to identify if the reporting of side effects is influenced by depression. Treating depression may help to reduce side effects and may thus increase the tolerability of anti‐epileptic medication. People who tolerate their medication are more likely to take it and are thus less likely to develop epileptic seizure.
Optimization of an ultrasound‐assisted extraction method to obtain gallic acid‐rich extracts from mango seed kernels
Authors: Riaz Tuba , Hayat Zafar , Saleem Kinza , Akram Kashif , Rehman Hafeez Ur , Rehman Shafiq ur , Azam Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Gallic acid is a widely recognized bioactive compound that falls under the category of secondary polyphenolic metabolites and is fairly found in mango fruit waste, specifically in mango seed kernel (MSK). This study aimed to adopt a green extraction approach to extract this valuable compound via ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) without using organic solvents but only water to obtain hazard‐free extracts, and the cost of extraction can be minimal. pH (2–8), solvent ratio (20–60 mL/g), temperature (30–60°C) and time (30–60 min) of extraction were the independent variables used for extraction optimization. Single‐factor experiments to obtain working ranges for selected extraction variables were carried out. A central composite design using response surface methodology was used to determine the optimum condition to obtain the maximum yield of gallic acid from MSK. The optimized extraction conditions were 3.9 pH, 36.25 mL/g solvent ratio, and 39.4°C of extraction temperature for 21.3 min. As a result, the optimized yield was 5.76 ± 0.41 mg/g, which was comparably equal to and/or better than the other solvent extraction systems. The results showed that gallic acid could efficiently be extracted via UAE under these optimal conditions. It is safer than extraction systems involving hazardous solvents that can be feasibly used for its nutraceutical and therapeutic applications.
A comprehensive review: Impact of oleogel application on food texture and sensory properties
Authors: Liu Lingyi , Gao Zengli , Chen Gang , Yao Jiaying , Zhang Xinyu , Qiu Xiaoting , Liu Lianliang
Published: April 2024

Oleogels, characterized by their semisolid matrix formed from liquid oil structured by gelators, are emerging as a pivotal innovation in food formulation, primarily due to their capacity to enhance the nutritional profile of products by incorporating healthier fats. This review explored the integration of oleogels into diverse food matrices, examining their impact on texture, mouthfeel, and overall sensory characteristics. Through an extensive analysis of current research, this paper illustrates the versatility of oleogels created with a variety of structuring agents across different food applications. It also addresses the challenges inherent in the use of oleogels, including the preservation of their stability and consistency through varying storage and processing conditions, navigating the regulatory landscape concerning oleogelator safety and acceptability, and confronting higher production costs. Overall, this comprehensive review highlights the potential of oleogels as a promising tool for achieving desirable textural and sensory attributes in food products while also identifying areas for future research and development.
DDE KGEditor: A data service system for knowledge graph construction in geoscience
Authors: Hou Chengbin , Liu Kaichuang , Wang Tianheng , Shi Shunzhong , Li Yan , Zhu Yunqiang , Hu Xiumian , Wang Chengshan , Zhou Chenghu , Lv Hairong
Published: April 2024

Deep‐time Digital Earth (DDE) is an innovative international big science program, focusing on scientific propositions of earth evolution, changing Earth Science by coordinating global geoscience data, and sharing global geoscience knowledge. To facilitate the DDE program with recent advances in computer science, the geoscience knowledge graph plays a key role in organizing the data and knowledge of multiple geoscience subjects into Knowledge Graphs (KGs), which enables the calculation and inference over geoscience KGs for data mining and knowledge discovery. However, the construction of geoscience KGs is challenging. Though there have been some construction tools, they commonly lack collaborative editing and peer review for building high‐quality large‐scale geoscience professional KGs. To this end, a data service system or tool, DDE KG Editor, is developed to construct geoscience KGs. Specifically, it comes with several distinctive features such as collaborative editing, peer review, contribution records, intelligent assistance, and discussion forums. Currently, global geoscientists have contributed over 60,000 ontologies for 22 subjects. The stability, scalability, and intelligence of the system are regularly improving as a public online platform to better serve the DDE program.
Comparison of preloading by fill surcharge and ground water lowering based on a case study
Authors: Thurner Florian , Marte Roman , Tschuchnigg Franz
Published: April 2024

Preloading by fill surcharge is a widespread and rather simple ground improvement method for the anticipation of settlements brought on by additional loads from new constructions. The magnitude as well as the area of surcharge is adapted to the final construction, whereas in general about 120–140 % of the final load is applied as surcharge load. Both factors have an influence on the effective depth for which soil improvement and an anticipation of settlements is possible, respectively. In case of large construction areas with significant loads, for which a greater depth effect needs to be considered, a large earth volume for surcharge is necessary. It is a cost‐intensive and environmental‐relevant aspect, when earth material is not available in sufficient amount and near distance of the construction site. In order to avoid this, it was investigated whether lowering the in situ groundwater level and thus increasing the effective stresses over depth could be a possible alternative. Therefore, a case study was carried out to examine these two different types of preloading techniques and their efficacy based on known subsoil conditions. Furthermore, the influence of the possible anisotropy of hydraulic conductivity in the weak soil layer on the preloading process was investigated.
Marijuana use among community‐dwelling older adults: A population‐based study
Authors: De Genna Natacha M. , Jacobsen Erin , Ganguli Mary
Published: April 2024

Objectives

There is a paucity of population‐level data on marijuana use and mental health and functioning in older adults.

Methods

We analyzed cross‐sectional data (n = 910) from a well‐characterized cohort, the Monongahela‐Youghiogheny Healthy Aging Team (MYHAT) study. MYHAT is an age‐stratified random sample of the population age 65 years and older from a small‐town in the USA. Half the sample was female and half were over 75 (Mean age = 77). Most participants were non‐Hispanic White. Marijuana use was assessed by self‐report and symptoms of mood disorders were screened using the modified Centers for Epidemiological Studies‐Depression Scale and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder screener. Cognition was assessed by the Mini‐Mental State Examination and a neuropsychological test battery; functioning using the OARS Activities of Daily Living and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living; and overall assessment using the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR®).

Results

One in five MYHAT participants had a history of marijuana use and 5% reported recent use, primarily for pain (41%) and recreation/relaxation (37%). Recent use was associated with cigarette and alcohol use, symptoms of depression or anxiety, and impairments in attention.

Conclusions

Twenty‐percent of community‐dwelling older adults living in a US state where recreational marijuana use is illegal had a history of marijuana use. Recent marijuana use was less common but, consistent with prior research, associated with other substance use and poorer mental health.
The effects of relational human resource management: A moderated mediation model of positive affective climate and collective occupational calling
Authors: Li Pingshu , Qu Yuanmei (Elly) , Li Mengwei , Downes Patrick E. , Wang Guofeng
Published: April 2024

Relationship‐oriented human resource management (HRM) contributes to organizational functioning by promoting employee relationships, coordination, and cooperation. We propose unit‐level positive affective climate as a motivational mechanism through which relationship‐oriented HR systems can positively influence unit service quality and relationships with beneficiaries, and prevent individual emotional exhaustion. Moreover, we propose collective occupational calling serves as an alternative motivational source that can substitute for the positive effects of positive affective climate. In analyzing a sample composed of 742 nurses from 48 nursing units of two hospitals in China with data collection at three time points before and after the COVID‐19 outbreak, our results supported the substituting effects of unit‐level collective occupational calling on positive affective climate stemmed from relationship‐oriented HR systems. Our study connects strategic HRM and motivation research by shedding light on an affective mechanism from relationship‐oriented HR systems and the contingencies involving employees' various sources of motivation, such as occupational calling. We further discuss theoretical and practical implications of the research.