bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ACKR3 in olfactory glia cells shapes the immune defense of the olfactory mucosa
Authors: Dietz André , Senf Katja , Neuhaus Eva M.
Published: March 2024

Barrier‐forming olfactory glia cells, termed sustentacular cells, play important roles for immune defense of the olfactory mucosa, for example as entry sites for SARS‐CoV‐2 and subsequent development of inflammation‐induced smell loss. Here we demonstrate that sustentacular cells express ACKR3, a chemokine receptor that functions both as a scavenger of the chemokine CXCL12 and as an activator of alternative signaling pathways. Differential gene expression analysis of bulk RNA sequencing data obtained from WT and ACKR3 conditional knockout mice revealed upregulation of genes involved in immune defense. To map the regulated genes to the different cell types of the olfactory mucosa, we employed biocomputational methods utilizing a single‐cell reference atlas. Transcriptome analysis, PCR and immunofluorescence identified up‐regulation of NF‐κB‐related genes, known to amplify inflammatory signaling and to facilitate leukocyte transmigration, in the gliogenic lineage. Accordingly, we found a marked increase in leukocyte‐expressed genes and confirmed leukocyte infiltration into the olfactory mucosa. In addition, lack of ACKR3 led to enhanced expression and secretion of early mediators of immune defense by Bowman's glands. As a result, the number of apoptotic cells in the epithelium was decreased. In conclusion, our research underlines the importance of sustentacular cells in immune defense of the olfactory mucosa. Moreover, it identifies ACKR3, a druggable G protein‐coupled receptor, as a promising target for modulation of inflammation‐associated anosmia.
Free school meals and cognitive ability: Evidence from China's student nutrition improvement plan
Authors: Duan Xueyi , Liang Yinhe , Peng Xiaobo
Published: March 2024

The China Student Nutrition Improvement Plan (SNIP) covers 40.6 million students in the compulsory education stage, accounting for 42% of all students enrolled in rural compulsory education in 2021. This paper utilizes the county‐by‐county rollout of the SNIP and estimates the effect of this nutritional intervention on students' cognitive outcomes. We find that SNIP increases math test scores but has a statistically insignificant effect on verbal achievement. The effect is greater for middle school students and children from disadvantaged families. The SNIP affects the cognitive performance of students by improving their health status, increasing school attendance, fostering good study habits, raising educational expectations, and improving the human capital of peers.
Risk of dementia following herpes zoster infection among patients undertreatment versus those not: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Thapa Sangharsha , Shah Sangam , Bhattarai Abhinav , Yazdan Panah Mohammad , Chand Swati , Mirmosayyeb Omid
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

According to the previous studies, herpes zoster (HZ) has been associated with cognitive function and dementia. There is a hypothesis claiming that dementia risk may be reduced by receiving the antiviral treatment for HZ. The purpose of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to shed light on the association between dementia and HZ in individuals receiving and not receiving antiviral medications.

Methods

Studies investigating the association between HZ and dementia were identified through a systematic search in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases from January, 2000 to April, 2022. Data on the risk of dementia in HZ‐infected patients under and not under antiviral treatment were extracted. The meta‐analysis was conducted using a random‐effects model. The modified ROBIN‐I tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias assessment. By utilizing the funnel plots, publication bias was investigated.

Results

Six cohort studies on 538,531 patients were included. The overall risk of bias assessment was moderate. According to evidence‐based cohort studies, there was a significant direct association between HZ and risk of dementia in patients with HZ, who did not receive antiviral treatments (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03 to 1.28, p = 0.01). On the other hand, there was an inverse relationship between HZ and risk of dementia among patients with HZ, who received antiviral treatments (HR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.59 to 0.77, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that antiviral therapies may significantly lower the risk of dementia in patients with HZ. This study also confirmed that patients with HZ, without receiving antiviral therapies, may have an increased risk of developing dementia. Further longitudinal research is warranted in this area.
Utilization of iron–folic acid supplementation and related factors in pregnant women in Leka Dulecha District, East Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia: The case study
Authors: Tolera Chimdessa , Tafesse Temesgen , Dessalegn Ra'el , Amenu Desalegn
Published: March 2024

Background

To treat neural tube closure abnormalities and maternal anemia during pregnancy, iron and folic acid (FA) supplements are typically necessary. Ethiopian Ministry of Health plan to increase the numbers of pregnant women who take iron and FA supplements from 11% to 50%, and by 2029, to 90% by 2024.

Aim

Hence, the main objective of this study was to investigate the degree of iron–folic acid supplementation (IFAS) and associated factors among pregnant women receiving antenatal care at Leka Dulecha Woreda public health facilities from May 1 to October 31, 2022.

Methods

In this study, about 316 pregnant women who visited Leka Dulecha prenatal care services were selected. A facility‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to examine parameters associated with the utilization of IFAS.

Results

These findings suggest that maternal educational status (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 2.00, 95% confidence interval, CI [1.5, 3.05]), the timing of the first prenatal consultation (AOR = 1.93, 95% CI [1.47, 2.62]), having a good understanding of anemia (AOR = 1.50, 95% CI [1.00, 2.11]), and a history of anemia during the current pregnancy (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI [1.11, 3.16]) are important factors to consider when promoting adherence to iron–FA supplementation among pregnant women.

Conclusion

It is crucial for healthcare providers to address these factors to improve the overall health outcomes for pregnant women attending Leka Delecha Health Facility.
Barriers and facilitators of parent−adolescent communication on sexual health and relationships among the UK population: A study protocol
Authors: Joseph Laura O. , Navelle Pascal L. , Ngozi Chinwendu C. , Hannis Dorothy , McNaughton Rebekah , Nnyanzi Lawrence A.
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Improving the sexual and reproductive health of adolescents remains a public health priority. Effective communication between parents and adolescents regarding sexual health and relationships is important and could influence adolescents to adopt safer sexual behaviors. However, several barriers can impede this communication in the UK population. The aim of the review is to explore barriers and facilitators, as well as wider determinants of parent–adolescent communication (PAC) on sexual health and relationships. The review will explore possible interventions aimed at promoting PAC on sexual health and relationships.

Methods

The review will focus on exploring barriers and facilitators of PAC on sexual health and relationships in the United Kingdom. This study will synthesize qualitative literature to understand the significance of parent–adolescent sexual and reproductive health communication, the challenges and facilitators to effective communication in the United Kingdom. Using a detailed predetermined search strategy, the study will search for relevant studies from CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and gray literature on Google Scholar. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist will appraise the included studies' methodological quality. A thematic synthesis approach will be used to synthesize data from included studies.

Conclusion

Findings from the systematic review are expected to give information on the barriers and facilitators of PAC on sexual health and relationships which will further optimize interventions to improve this type of communication and guide future research in understanding this area.

Systematic review registration

The review has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD (PROSPERO) (CRD42022351697).
Association of female reproductive and hormonal factors with gallbladder cancer risk in Asia: A pooled analysis of the Asia Cohort Consortium
Authors: Shin Aesun , Cho Sooyoung , Abe Sarah Krull , Islam Md Rashedul , Rahman Md Shafiur , Saito Eiko , Kazmi Sayada Zartasha , Katagiri Ryoko , Merritt Melissa , Choi Ji‐Yeob , Shu Xiao‐Ou , Sawada Norie , Tamakoshi Akiko , Koh Woon‐Puay , Sakata Ritsu , Hozawa Atsushi , Kim Jeongseon , Park Sue K. , Kweon Sun‐Seog , Wen Wanqing , Tsugane Shoichiro , Kimura Takashi , Yuan Jian‐Min , Kanemura Seiki , Sugawara Yumi , Shin Min‐Ho , Ahsan Habibul , Boffetta Paolo , Chia Kee Seng , Matsuo Keitaro , Qiao You‐Lin , Rothman Nathaniel , Zheng Wei , Inoue Manami , Kang Daehee
Published: March 2024

The female predominance of gallbladder cancer (GBC) has led to a hypothesis regarding the hormone‐related aetiology of GBC. We aimed to investigate the association between female reproductive factors and GBC risk, considering birth cohorts of Asian women. We conducted a pooled analysis of 331,323 women from 12 cohorts across 4 countries (China, Japan, Korea, and Singapore) in the Asia Cohort Consortium. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the association between reproductive factors (age at menarche, parity, age at first delivery, breastfeeding, and age at menopause) and GBC risk. We observed that a later age at menarche was associated with an increased risk of GBC (HR 1.4, 95% CI 1.16–1.70 for 17 years and older vs. 13–14 years), especially among the cohort born in 1940 and later (HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.50–4.35). Among the cohort born before 1940, women with a later age at first delivery showed an increased risk of GBC (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.08–2.24 for 31 years of age and older vs. 20 years of age and younger). Other reproductive factors did not show a clear association with GBC risk. Later ages at menarche and at first delivery were associated with a higher risk of GBC, and these associations varied by birth cohort.
Effects of QE on sovereign bond spreads through the safe asset channel
Authors: van den End Jan Willem
Published: March 2024

We show that through the safe asset channel the excess liquidity created by large scale asset purchases (QE) can lead to higher sovereign bond spreads in the euro area. This unintended effect is most likely in volatile market conditions when excess liquidity spurs demand for tradeable safe assets, pushing down the interest rate of these assets, which widens risk spreads. Outcomes of a panel regression model estimated for individual euro area countries confirm that the excess liquidity created by QE had an upward effect on sovereign bond spreads. It indicates that the safe asset channel dominates the usual portfolio rebalancing channel. For monetary policy the results imply that large scale asset purchases by QE are not an appropriate instrument to address country specific shocks.
Development of a tool for infant facial emotion recognition (InFER) for postpartum mothers with mental illnesses
Authors: Pantoji Makarand V. , Ganjekar Sundarnag , Mehta Urvakhsh Meherwan , Chandra Prabha S. , Thippeswamy Harish
Published: March 2024

Understanding deficits in recognition of infant emotions in mothers with mental illnesses is limited by the lack of validated instruments. We present the development and content validation of the infant facial emotion recognition tool (InFER) in India to examine the ability of mothers to detect the infants' emotions. A total of 164 images of infant faces in various emotional states were gathered from the parents of four infants (two male and two female: up to 12 months old). Infant emotion in each image was identified by the respective mother. Content validation was carried out by 21 experts. Images with ≥70% concordance among experts were selected. The newly developed tool, InFER, consists of a total 39 infant images representing the six basic emotions. This tool was then administered among mothers during their postpartum period—10 healthy mothers and 10 mothers who had remitted from any schizophrenia spectrum disorder, bipolar affective disorder or major depressive disorder. The mean age and mean years of education for both groups were comparable (age∼25 years, education ∼15 years). A significant difference was found between the two groups in their ability to recognize infant emotions (Mann–Whitney U = 12.5; p = 0.004). InFER is a promising tool in Indian settings for understanding maternal recognition of infant emotions.
Multimodal information fusion method in emotion recognition in the background of artificial intelligence
Authors: Dai Zhen , Fei Hongxiao , Lian Chunyan
Published: March 2024

Recent advances in Semantic IoT data integration have highlighted the importance of multimodal fusion in emotion recognition systems. Human emotions, formed through innate learning and communication, are often revealed through speech and facial expressions. In response, this study proposes a hidden Markov model‐based multimodal fusion emotion detection system, combining speech recognition with facial expressions to enhance emotion recognition rates. The integration of such emotion recognition systems with Semantic IoT data can offer unprecedented insights into human behavior and sentiment analysis, contributing to the advancement of data integration techniques in the context of the Internet of Things. Experimental findings indicate that in single‐modal emotion detection, speech recognition achieves a 76% accuracy rate, while facial expression recognition achieves 78%. However, when state information fusion is applied, the recognition rate increases to 95%, surpassing the national average by 19% and 17% for speech and facial expressions, respectively. This demonstrates the effectiveness of multimodal fusion in emotion recognition, leading to higher recognition rates and reduced workload compared to single‐modal approaches.
Transition metal doped ZIF‐8 for the detection of the heavy metal Hg(II)
Authors: Chen Xin Zhe , Wu Yang , Xu Chen , Wang Zi Jun , Liu Min Min
Published: March 2024

The effects of heavy metals such as Hg(II) and Pb(II) on the human body are profound. Moreover, they pose significant concerns due to industrial development. Thus, the rapid and stable detection of heavy metal ions and related chemicals has emerged as an urgent issue. The application of Differential Pulse Stripping Voltammetry (DPSV) facilitated accurate and rapid detection of Hg2+ utilizing MOF materials and ZIF‐8 as detection agents. Pure ZIF‐8 served as the substrate material. Copper or nickel ions were individually introduced into the substrate material. This process resulted in the formation of bimetallic MOF materials. These materials were designated as CuZn and NiZn, respectively. Transition metal‐doped materials were used to modify the glassy carbon electrode (GCE), resulting in a substantial enhancement in the detection performance of Hg2+. The CuZn/GCE configuration demonstrated the most significant enhancement. When compared to a GCE modified with pure ZIF‐8, both sensitivity and the detection limit for free Hg2+ in the environment experienced increases of 450% and 64%, respectively. Stability and repeatability tests were conducted on the CuZn‐modified GCE. Results indicated that the electrode proved to be very stable and showed strong selectivity in the presence of interfering ions. The sensor modified with CuZn shows promising potential for monitoring trace Hg2+ levels.
Further defining the roles and impact of genetic counselors in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry
Authors: Maxwell Emily , Moore Rebekah , Niendorf Kristin , Field Tessa
Published: March 2024

As personalized medicine has gained traction, drug development models in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry (BPI) have increasingly sought to address medical conditions with a genetic component, creating an opportunity for genetic counselors (GCs) to fill new roles and utilize their unique training to contribute to drug development. Despite the potential for GCs in BPI, literature around the role of GCs in this industry has been limited. Our mixed methods study aimed to assess how the roles of GCs in BPI have evolved since 2016, investigate the value of and opportunity for GCs in this industry, and further characterize their motivation and job satisfaction. Participants were recruited via social media advertising, snowball sampling, and email listservs from the National Society of Genetic Counseling (NSGC), the Canadian Association of Genetic Counselors (CAGC), and the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Survey (n = 20) and interview (n = 6) data indicates many aspects of GC roles in BPI are consistent with the 2016 study. However, there is evidence of roles becoming more varied and with increasing recognition of the value of GCs, opportunities for involvement in BPI are growing. Furthermore, combined study data found that GCs are motivated by the flexibility of BPI roles as well as the opportunity to contribute to rare disease treatment development and that they are overall satisfied with most aspects of their jobs. Interview data also found that genetic counseling training has the potential to improve clinical trial design and outcomes by making drug development more patient‐centric. Finally, combined study data found that while GCs continue to utilize Accreditation Council of Genetic Counseling (ACGC) practice‐based competencies (PBCs), business‐related training may benefit GCs seeking to enter BPI. Together, these findings are critical for informing genetic counseling training programs, employers within BPI, and GCs interested in entering these positions.
Outpatient superficial partial‐thickness burn care of an elderly patient successfully treated with Eppikajutsuto
Authors: Ishibashi Hiroki , Yoshinaga Ryo , Yamada Tetsuhisa
Published: March 2024

Eppikajutsuto (EPTJ) is used to reduce redundant body fluids and suppress inflammation. We observed that EPTJ shortened the duration of treatment in an elderly patient with burn injuries. A 96‐year‐old man suffered superficial partial‐thickness burns on the dorsum of his right hand and left knee. The injuries showed early improvement with the use of EPTJ. This suggests that EPTJ could contribute to shortening the duration of healing for superficial partial‐thickness burns in elderly patients who may experience slow wound healing and have a high mortality rate. Eppikajutsuto needs to be considered as a treatment for burns in primary care.
Rethinking the consultation paradigm: Validity evidence for a new framework, a multimethods study
Authors: Patell Rushad , Cool Joséphine A. , Merchant Elise , Dodge Laura E. , Ricotta Daniel N. , Persaud Brian , Gomez Larissa K. , Yang Lauren , Trainor Alison , Carney Brian , William Jeffrey , Lecker Stewart , Theodore Miranda , Petri Camille , Horst Douglas , Stein Daniel , Forbath Natalia , Abdul Azim Ahmed , Hale Andrew J. , Freed Jason A.
Published: March 2024

Background

In‐hospital consultation is essential for patient care. We previously proposed a framework of seven specific consultation types to classify consult requests to improve communication, workflow, and provider satisfaction.

Methods

This multimethods study's aim was to evaluate the applicability of the consult classification framework to real internal medicine (IM) consults. We sought validity evidence using Kane's validity model with focus groups and classifying consult requests from five IM specialties. Participants attended five 1 h semi‐structured focus groups that were recorded, transcribed, and coded for thematic saturation. For each specialty, three specialists and three hospitalists categorized 100 (total 500) random anonymized consult requests. The primary outcome was concordance in the classification of consult requests, defined as the sum of partial concordance and perfect concordance, where respectively 4–5/6 and 6/6 participants classified a consult in the same category. We used χ2 tests to compare concordance rates across specialties and between specialists and hospitalists.

Results

Five major themes were identified in the qualitative analysis of the focus groups: (1) consult question, (2) interpersonal interactions, (3) value, (4) miscommunication, (5) consult framework application, barriers, and iterative development. In the quantitative analysis, the overall concordance rate was 88.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 85.7–91.4), and perfect concordance was 46.6% (95% CI: 42.2–51.1). Concordance differed significantly between hospitalists and specialists overall (p = .01), with a higher proportion of hospitalists having perfect concordance compared to specialists (67.2% vs. 57.8%, p = .002).

Conclusions

The consult classification framework was found to be applicable to consults from five different IM specialties, and could improve communication and education.
Zinc and silicon fertilizers in conventional and nano‐forms: Mitigating salinity effects in maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Shoukat Abbas , Pitann Britta , Hossain Md. Sazzad , Saqib Zulfiqar Ahmad , Nawaz Allah , Mühling Karl Hermann
Published: March 2024

Background

Salinity stress, an escalating concern in the realm of agriculture, significantly hampers crop productivity worldwide. In recent years, nano‐fertilizers have been identified as an innovative and promising avenue for improving nutrient use efficiency and mitigating salt stress in plants.

Aims

This study delves into the comparative efficacy of nano‐fertilizers (Zn and Si) and their conventional sources in bolstering maize's resilience against salt stress.

Methods

The hydroponic experiment was conducted to test maize plants under salt stress along with Zn and Si nanoparticles (NPs) application. The analysis extends to their impacts on ionic homeostasis, specifically focusing on potassium and sodium concentrations, K/Na ratio, stomatal conductance, chlorophyll content, and the osmotic potential (OP) within the shoots and roots of maize.

Results

Nanoparticles relatively helped plants better under stress, compared to their respective bulk mode of applications. Nano‐Zn treatment considerably boosts the K+ concentration and enhanced K/Na ratio, as a key physiological trait in salt‐resistant species, while nano‐Si demonstrates a prominent role in modulating OP and limiting Na+ accumulation along with higher Zn and Si accumulation in plants. The salt tolerance index confirmed the contribution of these ionic and osmotic adjustments in helping maize plant against salt stress.

Conclusions

Our findings confirm that the application of nutrients as nano‐fertilizers, particularly nano‐Zn, enhanced K/Na ratio and improved nutrient availability and uptake of the plant. Si nanoparticles are also attributed to better osmotic adjustment and facilitating water movement, thus highlighting the potential of nano‐fertilizers in improving overall agricultural productivity and related environmental issues.
Shear‐wave elastography for monitoring Fontan‐associated liver disease: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Bolia Rishi , Alremawi Sara , Noble Charlton , Justo Robert , Ward Cameron , Lewindon Peter J.
Published: March 2024

The spectrum of Fontan‐associated liver disease (FALD) varies from abnormal liver function tests to fibrosis and even cirrhosis. In this prospective study, we evaluated the role of shear‐wave elastography (SWE) in predicting the presence of advanced FALD. Forty‐eight patients (30 males, 13.9 [6–21] years) with a Fontan circulation were evaluated at 8.3 (2.1–18.7) years since the Fontan surgery. The median liver stiffness measurement (LSM) value was higher than values in normal children at 15.4 (9.5–38.7) kPa. The LSMs had a weak but significant correlation with age at the time of LSM (r = 0.25, p = 0.01) and duration post‐Fontan surgery (r = 0.31, p = 0.02). It had a poor correlation with the concomitant aspartate transaminase‐to‐platelet ratio index (r = 0.1, p = 0.39). No difference in the elastography values between children with and without ultrasound evidence of advanced liver disease (17.7 [interquartile range, IQR: 4] vs. 16.1 [IQR: 6], p = 0.62] was observed. Further studies are required to determine the precise role of SWE as a noninvasive marker of liver fibrosis in FALD.
Concurrent cecal lipoma and Crohn's disease in a pediatric patient: A conservative approach
Authors: Shargo Ryan A. , Ekblad Morgan , Baran Jessica V. , Brown Jerry M. , Chamizo Wilfredo , Karjoo Sara , Wilsey Michael
Published: March 2024

We report the case of a 14‐year‐old patient with a known history of Crohn's disease who was incidentally diagnosed with an asymptomatic cecal lipoma. A routine surveillance colonoscopy as part of the management of the patient's Crohn's Disease revealed a well‐defined, submucosal, yellowish mass in the patient's cecum. Histopathological examination of a biopsy specimen revealed submucosal adipose tissue, consistent with the endoscopic images showing the characteristic appearance of the lipoma. A computed tomography examination further confirmed the diagnosis. While colonic lipomas are infrequent and typically manifest later in life, few cases report the coexistence of a cecal lipoma with Crohn's disease, particularly in the pediatric population. In this case, managing this dual condition posed a notable challenge. Here, we present the conservative approach to managing a pediatric patient with cecal lipoma and Crohn's disease. The decision to leave the lipoma in situ was based on the absence of symptoms and potential risks associated with surgical removal.
Electrospun PCL‐Based Materials for Health‐Care Applications: An Overview
Authors: Mokhena Teboho Clement , Chabalala Mandla Brian , Mapukata Sivuyisiwe , Mtibe Asanda , Hlekelele Lerato , Cele Zamani , Mochane Mokgaotsa Jonas , Ntsendwana Bulelwa , Nhlapo Toitoi Amos , Mokoena Teboho Patrick , Bambo Mokae Fanuel , Matabola Kgabo Phillemon , Ray Suprakas Sinha , Sadiku Emmanuel Rotimi , Shingange Katekani
Published: March 2024

Polycaprolactone (PCL) is one of the durable polymers with potential in a plethora of healthcare applications. Its biological properties, degradability, chemical properties, and mechanical properties can further be modified to manufacture desired products for modern biomedical applications. Electrospinning of PCL offers the opportunity to design treatment materials that resemble human tissues and facilitate regeneration at the target site. The resultant materials can also be modified by loading other active functional materials to broaden their applications. Herein, the recent advances in the preparation and modification of PCL‐based materials for healthcare applications are elucidated. The challenges and future trends for its application in modern biomedical applications are also outlined.
Preparation of Short Collagen Nanofibers for Injectable Hydrogels: Comparative Assessment of Fragmentation Methods, Physicomechanical Properties, and Biocompatibility
Authors: Karimizade Ayoob , Mellati Amir
Published: March 2024

Collagen nanofibers can be employed in hydrogels to create injectable nanocomposite hydrogels, mimicking the fibrous architecture of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). As long continuous electrospun collagen nanofibers are not applicable, fragmentation is inevitable to obtain injectable hydrogels with a fine viscosity. Here, four methods: hand grinding (HG), homogenizer (HM), mixer milling (MM), and ultrasonication (UH) are used to disintegrate and shorten collagen nanofiber mats before incorporation into an injectable hyaluronic acid hydrogel as a matrix. The Length‐to‐diameter (L/d) ratio and morphology of fragmented collagen are compared by SEM. The injection force, mechanical properties, and cell viability of the selected collagen‐incorporated hydrogels are also evaluated. UH emerges as the most effective method, yielding the highest L/d ratio of 46 and a notable compressive modulus of 8.7 ± 0.92 kPa. Assessment of the in vitro cell viability of the encapsulated chondrocytes in the collagen‐incorporated hydrogels demonstrates good biocompatibility, and hydrogels containing UH short nanofiber, in particular, show an increase in cell proliferation. This work indicates how collagen mats can be effectively broken down and combined with injectable hydrogels to enhance both their mechanical behavior and biocompatibility.
Quasi‐Chromophores Segregated by Single‐Chain Nanoparticles of Fluorinated Zwitterionic Random Copolymers Showing Remarkably Enhanced Fluorescence Emission Capable of Fluorescent Cell Imaging
Authors: Zeng Yongming , Xu Tianchi , Chen Weizhi , Fang Jianglin , Chen Dongzhong
Published: March 2024

Organic and polymer fluorescent nanomaterials are a frontier research focus. Here in this work, a series of fluorinated zwitterionic random copolymers end‐attached with a quasi‐chromophoric group of pyrene or tetraphenylethylene (TPE) are well synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization with activators regenerated by electron transfer (ARGET ATRP). Those random copolymers with total degree of polymerization 100 or 200 are able to produce fluorescent single‐chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) through intra‐chain self‐folding assembly with quite uniform diameters in the range of 10–20 nm as characterized by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. By virtue of the segregation or confinement effect, both SCNPs functionalized with pyrene or TPE group are capable of emitting fluorescence, with pyrene tethered SCNPs exhibiting stronger fluorescence emission reaching the highest quantum yield ≈20%. Moreover, such kind of fluorescent SCNPs manifest low cytotoxicity and good cell imaging performance for Hela cells. The creation of fluorescent SCNPs through covalently attached one quasi‐chromophore to the end of one fluorinated zwitterionic random copolymer provides an alternative strategy for preparing polymeric luminescence nanomaterials, promisingly serving as a new type of fluorescent nanoprobes for biological imaging applications.
Advancing systemic disease diagnosis through ophthalmic image‐based artificial intelligence
Authors: Miao Hanpei , Zou Zixing , Xu Jie , Gao Yuanxu
Published: March 2024

The eye serves as a unique window into systemic health, offering clinicians a valuable opportunity for early detection and targeted treatment. Against this backdrop, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and ophthalmic imaging are converging to pave the way for more precise and predictive diagnostics. This review aims to elucidate the transformative role of AI in utilizing ophthalmic imaging for the detection and prediction of systemic diseases. We begin by introducing the advantages of the eye as a valuable tool for detecting systemic diseases. We also provide an overview of various ophthalmic imaging techniques that have proven useful in predicting systemic ailments. Then, we summarize two research patterns for analyzing ocular data, followed by the introduction of current AI applications using ophthalmic images that significantly increase diagnostic precision. Despite the promise, challenges such as data heterogeneity and model interpretability persist, which are also covered in this review. We conclude by discussing future directions and the immense potential these AI‐enabled approaches hold for revolutionizing healthcare. As AI technologies advance, their potential integration with ophthalmic imaging offers promising avenues for improving the diagnosis, prediction, and management of various systemic diseases, thereby contributing to the evolving landscape of integrated healthcare.
Application of flatlet oblique multiwavelets to solve the fractional stochastic integro‐differential equation using Galerkin method
Authors: Irandoust‐Pakchin Safar , Abdi‐Mazraeh Somaiyeh , Adel Mohamed
Published: March 2024

This study introduces a new numerical approach named flatlet oblique multiwavelets (FOMW) to solve fractional‐order stochastic integro‐differential equation (FSI‐DE). The FOMW is used to create an operational matrix of the stochastic integral, which helps transform the FSI‐DE into a linear system of algebraic equations. This method requires only a small number of basis functions to achieve satisfactory results. The paper also includes a comprehensive discussion on error estimation and convergence analysis, which provides an upper bound of error for the proposed method. Furthermore, numerical experiments have been conducted and compared with other methods, demonstrating the superiority of FOMW in terms of accuracy and efficiency.
On blow‐up phenomena for a weakly dissipative periodic two‐component b$$ b $$‐family system revisited
Authors: Dong Xiaofang
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we mainly revisit a weakly dissipative periodic two‐component
‐family system. Considering the dissipative effect, the local well‐posedness is first obtained for the system by applying the Kato's semigroup theory. We then utilize the characteristics line method to get one blow‐up criterion with the dispersive parameter
. Finally, the other blow‐up criterion is derived with regard as considering the odevity of initial data by using energy method. When the parameters
belong to suitable range, our obtained results supplement the corresponding blow‐up criteria, which was derived by Liu and Yin (Nonlinear Analysis: Real World Applications 12 (2011) 3608–3620).
A comprehensive lung CT landmark pair dataset for evaluating deformable image registration algorithms
Authors: Criscuolo Edward R. , Fu Yabo , Hao Yao , Zhang Zhendong , Yang Deshan
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Deformable image registration (DIR) is a key enabling technology in many diagnostic and therapeutic tasks, but often does not meet the required robustness and accuracy for supporting clinical tasks. This is in large part due to a lack of high‐quality benchmark datasets by which new DIR algorithms can be evaluated. Our team was supported by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering to develop DIR benchmark dataset libraries for multiple anatomical sites, comprising of large numbers of highly accurate landmark pairs on matching blood vessel bifurcations. Here we introduce our lung CT DIR benchmark dataset library, which was developed to improve upon the number and distribution of landmark pairs in current public lung CT benchmark datasets.

Acquisition and Validation Methods

Thirty CT image pairs were acquired from several publicly available repositories as well as authors’ institution with IRB approval. The data processing workflow included multiple steps: (1) The images were denoised. (2) Lungs, airways, and blood vessels were automatically segmented. (3) Bifurcations were directly detected on the skeleton of the segmented vessel tree. (4) Falsely identified bifurcations were filtered out using manually defined rules. (5) A DIR was used to project landmarks detected on the first image onto the second image of the image pair to form landmark pairs. (6) Landmark pairs were manually verified. This workflow resulted in an average of 1262 landmark pairs per image pair. Estimates of the landmark pair target registration error (TRE) using digital phantoms were 0.4 mm ± 0.3 mm.

Data Format and Usage Notes

The data is published in Zenodo at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8200423. Instructions for use can be found at https://github.com/deshanyang/Lung‐DIR‐QA.

Potential Applications

The dataset library generated in this work is the largest of its kind to date and will provide researchers with a new and improved set of ground truth benchmarks for quantitatively validating DIR algorithms within the lung.
Phase‐field model for ductile fracture in the stress resultant geometrically exact shell
Authors: Ma Ran , Sun WaiChing , Guo Tong
Published: March 2024

We present a phase‐field fracture model for a stress resultant geometrically exact shell in finite deformation regime where the configuration manifold evolves according to deformation and fracture. The Reissner–Mindlin shell problem is first solved via the finite element method, where the independent unknown fields are the displacement and director. The phase‐field ductile fracture model is then coupled with the verified geometrically exact shell by enriching the three‐field elasto‐plastic free energy with a regularized crack surface energy. To capture the geometrical nonlinearity due to the large plastic deformation exhibited in the processing zone, the corresponding finite‐strain stress resultant elasto‐plasticity model is coupled with the phase field model. This coupling between the stress resultant elasto‐plasticity model and the phase‐field fracture model enables us to predict the different amounts of energy dissipation attributed to plastic deformation and fracture and hence simulate the crack propagation in the ductile regime properly. We introduce a mixed finite element model with displacement, director, and phase‐field order parameters as the nodal degree of freedoms formulated on the mid‐surface. An energy‐based arc‐length method is generalized to track the equilibrium path and mitigate instabilities arising from material nonlinearity. Four numerical examples are presented to validate the implementation of the model and demonstrate its capability to simulate ductile fracture in shell structures. These examples include a plane‐stress tension/shear fracture model, the Muscat‐Fenech and Atkins plate, axial tension of a notched cylindrical shell, and ductile fracture of a simply supported plate under uniform pressure.
Optimization and performance evaluation of a fluorescent sensor for residual sulfonamide antibiotics in honey samples
Authors: Cao Lingling , Ying Haiqin , Zhang Baolin , Cao Yang , Li Sumin , Huang Weihong , Yang Wenming
Published: March 2024

In the quest to address the mounting concerns over sulfonamide antibiotic residues in food, which pose significant threats to public health and food safety, this study introduces a cutting‐edge detection method. Surface molecular imprinting on silicon nanoparticles is harnessed to fabricate a novel fluorescent sensor that exploits the luminescent properties of cadmium telluride (CdTe) quantum dots. This innovative approach aims to detect residual sulfonamide antibiotics with high specificity and sensitivity. At the heart of this research is the development of a core‐shell nanostructure, where silicon dioxide serves as the core, and a molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) layer, tailored to recognize sulfamethazine (SM2), forms the shell. The pivotal advancement in this sensor design is the integration of highly fluorescent CdTe quantum dots within the MIPs layer, which significantly enhances the signal response, enabling the detection of SM2 with remarkable precision. The synthesis of this sensor employs a novel strategy, utilizing 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane as the functional monomer, while tetraethyl orthosilicate and ammonium hydroxide act as catalysts to facilitate the polymerization reaction. This meticulous process yields a stable core‐shell structure with active fluorescent properties. Experimental results reveal that under optimal conditions, the sensor exhibits a robust linear response to SM2 concentrations ranging from 10 to 60 μmol L−1, with a detection limit as low as 0.78 μmol L−1. Furthermore, when applied to real food samples, such as honey, the sensor not only demonstrates high recovery rates of 92.3%–98.1%, but also maintains a low relative standard deviation of less than 2.5%. The implications of this study are far‐reaching, offering a promising avenue for the rapid and reliable monitoring of antibiotic residues in the food supply chain, thereby safeguarding consumer health and upholding food safety standards.
Effects of carbon‐based nanoparticles on the properties of poly(lactic acid) hybrid composites containing basalt fibers and carbon‐based nanoparticles processed by injection molding
Authors: Juhász Zsolt , Pinke Balázs , Gonda Bence , Mészáros László
Published: March 2024

In this study, we developed composites with a poly(lactic acid) matrix and reinforced with basalt fiber, carbon‐based nanoparticles (carbon nanotube [CNT] and expanded graphene [GNP]), and both basalt fiber and nanoparticles (hybrid composites). The composites were produced by extrusion, and then tensile specimens were injection molded from the composites. The hybrid composites exhibited enhanced mechanical properties. The reinforcing materials increased crystallinity; this was more pronounced for hybrid composites. We experienced significant increase in the glass transition temperature, which proves the better interaction between the reinforcing and the matrix phases. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis showed that the nanoparticles increased the storage modulus both alone and in combination with basalt fibers. Furthermore, the basalt fiber‐reinforced composites and hybrids exhibited significant modulus above the glass transition temperature. Based on scanning electron microscopy images of the fracture surfaces, we concluded that adding basalt fibers during compounding resulted in better dispersion of the nanoparticles.

Highlights

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) reinforced with basalt fiber has good strength properties.

Graphene hybrid exhibits notable tensile modulus improvement in hybrids.

Graphene and carbon nanotubes are crystalline nucleating agents for PLA.

Enhanced nanoparticle distribution was discovered for hybrid composites.

The glass transition temperature of PLA increases with reinforcement.
Light quality‐dependent roles of REVEILLE proteins in the circadian system
Authors: Hughes Cassandra L. , An Yuyan , Maloof Julin N. , Harmer Stacey L.
Published: March 2024

Several closely related Myb‐like activator proteins are known to have partially redundant functions within the plant circadian clock, but their specific roles are not well understood. To clarify the function of the REVEILLE 4, REVEILLE 6, and REVEILLE 8 transcriptional activators, we characterized the growth and clock phenotypes of CRISPR‐Cas9‐generated single, double, and triple rve mutants. We found that these genes act synergistically to regulate flowering time, redundantly to regulate leaf growth, and antagonistically to regulate hypocotyl elongation. We previously reported that increasing intensities of monochromatic blue and red light have opposite effects on the period of triple rve468 mutants. Here, we further examined light quality‐specific phenotypes of rve mutants and report that rve468 mutants lack the blue light‐specific increase in expression of some circadian clock genes observed in wild type. To investigate the basis of these blue light‐specific circadian phenotypes, we examined RVE protein abundances and degradation rates in blue and red light and found no significant differences between these conditions. We next examined genetic interactions between RVE genes and ZEITLUPE and ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5, two factors with blue light‐specific functions in the clock. We found that the RVEs interact additively with both ZEITLUPE and ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5 to regulate circadian period, which suggests that neither of these factors are required for the blue light‐specific differences that we observed. Overall, our results suggest that the RVEs have separable functions in plant growth and circadian regulation and that they are involved in blue light‐specific circadian signaling via a novel mechanism.
Temperamental underpinnings of borderline personality disorder and its facets
Authors: Brud Piotr P. , Cieciuch Jan
Published: March 2024

Temperament is claimed to be the basis for personality; therefore, discovering the temperamental underpinnings of borderline personality disorder and its facets is crucial for understanding this personality disorder. In this article, we explore these underpinnings by using a new model of temperament, based on the Regulative Theory of Temperament, the Big Two of temperament, and the Circumplex of Personality Metatraits. Two studies were conducted on adults—the first was in a general population sample (N = 315) and the second was in a clinical sample (N = 113) in people with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. The following measurements were used: The Screening Instrument for Borderline Personality Disorder (SI‐Bord), the Five‐Factor Borderline Inventory‐Short Form (FFBI‐SF), and the Temperament Metadimensions Questionnaire (TMQ). General borderline was explained by Reactivity (high Sensitivity) and Activity (high Dynamism). At the facet level, the Borderline Internalizing Facet was mainly explained by Reactivity (high Sensitivity), while the Borderline Externalizing Facet was explained by Activity (high Dynamism) in addition to Reactivity (high Sensitivity). The results of our study revealed specific temperamental underpinnings of borderline and its facets. Reactivity underlies all borderline facets, while Activity differentiates between the Borderline Externalizing Facet and Borderline Internalizing Facet.
Identification of gravity‐responsive serum proteins in spaceflight mice using a quantitative proteomic approach with data‐independent acquisition mass spectrometry
Authors: Kimura Yayoi , Nakai Yusuke , Ino Yoko , Akiyama Tomoko , Moriyama Kayano , Ohira Takashi , Saito Tomoyuki , Inaba Yutaka , Kumagai Ken , Ryo Akihide , Hirano Hisashi
Published: March 2024

Physical inactivity associated with gravity unloading, such as microgravity during spaceflight and hindlimb unloading (HU), can cause various physiological changes. In this study, we attempted to identify serum proteins whose levels fluctuated in response to gravity unloading. First, we quantitatively assessed changes in the serum proteome profiles of spaceflight mice using mass spectrometry with data‐independent acquisition. The serum levels of several proteins involved in the responses to estrogen and glucocorticoid, blood vessel maturation, osteoblast differentiation, and ossification were changed by microgravity exposure. Furthermore, a collective evaluation of serum proteomic data from spaceflight and HU mice identified 30 serum proteins, including Mmp2, Igfbp2, Tnc, Cdh5, and Pmel, whose levels varied to a similar extent in both gravity unloading models. These changes in serum levels could be involved in the physiological changes induced by gravity unloading. A collective evaluation of serum, femur, and soleus muscle proteome data of spaceflight mice also showed 24 serum proteins, including Igfbp5, Igfbp3, and Postn, whose levels could be associated with biological changes induced by microgravity. This study examined serum proteome profiles in response to gravity unloading, and may help deepen our understanding of microgravity adaptation mechanisms during prolonged spaceflight missions.