bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Nutrition in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): New Therapeutic Approaches and Recent Outcomes
Authors: Hernández Nallely Bueno , MañeAlmero Josep , Cortes Isabel , Yamamoto-Furusho Jesús
Published: January 2013

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the generic term given to a heterogeneous group of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract that are characterized by chronic inflammation. The major forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), which are increasing in incidence, prevalence and severity in many countries; these are characterized by intestinal inflammation and are believed to involve complex interactions between genetic, immunological and environmental factors. The incidence continues to rise, both in low and in high-incidence areas. Several dietary regimes may modify disease symptoms, in part through their actions on the host microbe. However, other dietary factors could affect the microbiotic or genetic expression in IBD patients in different ways. The purpose of this review is to discuss the most recent evidence from the literature on the use of nutritional therapy in the treatment of IBD and to review the role of environmental factors on the progressive increase of prevalence. The epidemiological data reveal an increasing incidence of IBD in recent years, which may be the result of increased intake of simple sugars and consumption disproportionate of fat (saturated and unsaturated). Intestinal permeability and inflammation could improve with proper diet in protein, probiotics and FA (n-3 and n-6). Diet and the host microbiota are likely to play important but as yet poorly defined roles therefore, is necessary to continue investigating to implement molecular findings in clinical treatments or adjunctive therapies.
Quantum Nature of Winter Depression
Authors: Adamski Adam
Published: January 2013

Depression is a disease that concerns a growing group of people: children, youth, adult and the elderly. Statistics indicate that 5 up to 20% of the population of the globe suffer from it. Women suffer from this disease four times more often than men. Depression is such a mental state in which the patient has a deep sense of meaninglessness of life and sees the world in the gloomy colors. Such a person is depressed, their mood affects the job, interpersonal relationships, and learning process. They have a feeling of hopelessness, worthlessness, pessimism and sadness. In many cases patients suffering from depression contemplate or attempt suicide. They cannot notice the solution of their problems. Moreover, they cannot imagine their future, if they were stopped in time. For such people only the past and their past failures matter. Time stopped for them.
In addition to endogenous depression, there is also autumn-winter depression, which is a seasonal disease. The first symptoms appear in early autumn. The improvement of the patients’ mental health is observed from February whereas the next symptoms of the disease appear spontaneously in March and April. Winter depression is caused by a prolonged night in autumn and winter and this fact results in the prolonged synthesis of melatonin by the pineal gland, which affects the development of depression.
Regroup On “E-Groups”: Monumentality and Early Centers in the Middle Preclassic Maya Lowlands
Authors: Doyle James A.
Published: January 2013

For nearly a century, scholars have used astronomical evidence to explain the Lowland Maya architectural type known as “E-Groups” as solar observatories and, by extension, as locations for rituals related to solar and agricultural cycles. This article departs from the usual focus on the observational properties of E-Groups and places them in the context of early Maya monumentality during the Middle Preclassic period. Specifically, E-Groups are seen as the earliest monumental social spaces in the Maya Lowlands, with multifaceted functions and placements that indicate a shared social map of the landscape. Geographic information systems viewshed analysis of Middle Preclassic E-Group sites demonstrates that populations constructed E-Groups in places that maximized visibility of the nearby landscape. Viewsheds conducted at sites with Middle Preclassic E-Groups in the central Maya Lowlands suggest that the large plazas and similar monumental architecture represent the centers of comparable, mutually visible communities. Settlers founding these communities consciously created distance from neighboring monumental centers, perhaps as means of defining and buttressing group identity and undergirding spatial claims to political authority. Recent archaeological evidence affords clues that such spaces were civic, allowing architectural settings for social gatherings and access to resources.
A Macroregional Perspective on Chiefly Cycling in the Central Region of Panama During the Late Ceramic Ii Period (A.D. 700–1522)
Authors: Menzies Adam C. J. , Haller Mikael J.
Published: January 2013

The sixteenth-century indigenous societies who inhabited the Pacific plains of Panama have occupied an important place in discussions of social hierarchy in the Americas. Beginning with the discovery of the richly stocked tombs at Sitio Conte in the 1930s the origins of social hierarchy and wealth accumulation has been a key theme in the Central Region of Panama. Although the most lavish burial hoards at Sitio Conte contained hundreds of sumptuary goods elaborately decorated with cosmological iconography, no other contemporary cemetery shows evidence for this degree of wealth accumulation. The only other site with mortuary patterning suggestive of high ranking individuals is He-4, where high ranking mound burials were interred following the abandonment of the Sitio Conte cemetery. From a macroregional perspective the increase in access to prestige goods in mound burials at He-4 contemporaneous with, or immediately after, the decline of Sitio Conte is best explained as a result of changes in political organization of the kind often associated with the growth and decline of chiefly polities.
Small Caves and Sacred Geography: A Case Study from the Prehispanic Maya Site of Maax Na, Belize
Authors: King Eleanor M. , Brady James E. , Shaw Leslie C. , Cobb Allan B. , Kieffer C. L. , Brennan Michael L. , Harris Chandra L.
Published: January 2013

Contemporary research on prehispanic Maya landscapes has focused on caves as core features of the cultural geography. Investigations within a number of large caves have suggested that they served as the loci for important rituals, legitimized inhabitants’ claims to their territory, and helped establish the authority of a site’s ruling elite. The ubiquity and centrality of caves in the Maya worldview raises questions about what happened in regions where large caves did not naturally form. Recent investigations at the site of Maax Na in northern Belize suggest that small caves, despite their diminutive size, still functioned to establish legitimacy and uphold power. The results serve to demonstrate the pervasive power of key ideological concepts in shaping the cultural landscape and indicate the need to take these into account in documenting landmarks at Maya sites, as even the less imposing ones may have been important to their inhabitants.
The Saint, the King's Grandson, the Poet, and the Victorian Writer: Instances of MS When the Disease Did Not Have a Name
Authors: Murray Jock
Published: January 2013

Several historical figures experienced many of the manifestations of what we now call multiple sclerosis (MS). Descriptions of their symptoms and the medical treatments of the day are discussed. While modern clinicians may argue whether these people had MS, presumed MS, or another condition entirely, the case histories of Lidwina of Schiedam, Margaret Davis of Myddle, William Brown, Sir Augustus D'Esté, Heinrich Heine, Allan Stephenson, and Margaret Gatty provide an intriguing glimpse into the history of MS, medical treatment, and the social context of neurologic illness in previous centuries.
Botulinum Toxin Urethral Sphincter Injection to Restore Bladder Emptying in a Woman With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: O'Leary Margie L. , Smith Christopher P. , Erickson Janet R. , Heyman Rock A. , Chancellor Michael B.
Published: January 2013

We expand the clinical utility of botulinum toxin in the external urethral sphincter in a 31-year-old woman with multiple sclerosis and significant neurogenic bladder. Encouraging improvement without complications has been seen during more than two years' follow-up. (Int J MS Care. 2002; 4:70–72)
A Randomized Controlled Safety Trial of Interferon beta–1a and Oral Cyclophosphamide in MS
Authors: Kaufman Michael , Norton H. James , Sonnenfeld Gerald
Published: January 2013

We evaluated the safety of adding oral cyclophosphamide to interferon beta-1a (IFNβ-1a; Avonex®) in a placebo-controlled randomized study of 24 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The clinical course was monitored during nine months of treatment. Treated patients tolerated 150 to 200 mg/m2 of weekly administered cyclophosphamide and IFNβ-1a with few reported side effects. We conclude that oral cyclophosphamide can be added safely to IFNβ-1a without intolerable acute side effects. One death unrelated to treatment occurred. Cholecystitis and a benign breast mass both developed in a single cyclophosphamide-treated participant. Leukopenia and lymphopenia were observed in treated participants. Longer, larger trials testing the efficacy of cyclophosphamide may be appropriate for some individuals with breakthrough disease activity while taking IFNβ-1a. (Int J MS Care. 2002; 4: 174–175, 180–182)
Predictive Value of SF–36 for MS–Specific Scales of the MS Quality of Life Inventory
Authors: Nuyens Godelieve , Van Asch Paul , Kerckhofs Eric , Vleugels Luc , Ketelaer Pierre
Published: January 2013

Background: The MS Quality of Life Index (MSQLI) is a modular health-related quality of life instrument consisting of the Health Status Questionnaire (SF-36) and nine MS-specific measures. The purpose of this study is to assess whether adding all the proposed MS-specific measures to the SF-36 is necessary to obtain a more comprehensive measurement of quality of life in MS.

Method: Eighty-eight persons with multiple sclerosis, 42 men and 46 women, with an average age of 52.5 ± 11 years, completed the MSQLI questionnaires. The predictive value of SF-36 items to MS-specific scales was low to moderate, with r2-values ranging between 0.02 and 0.57. The accuracy of the predictive models was not sufficient enough to replace the MS-specific scales with the SF-36 items.

Conclusion: Adding scales to the SF-36 may be valuable to obtain a more comprehensive view on the quality of life of people with MS. (Int J MS Care. 2003; 5: 8–14)
Frequency and factors associated with adherence to and completion of combination antiretroviral therapy for prevention of mother to child transmission in western Kenya
Authors: Ayuo Paul , Musick Beverly , Liu Hai , Braitstein Paula , Nyandiko Winstone , Otieno‐Nyunya Boaz , Gardner Adrian , Wools‐Kaloustian Kara
Published: January 2013

Introduction

The objective of this analysis was to identify points of disruption within the prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission (PMTCT) continuum from combination antiretroviral therapy (CART) initiation until delivery.

Methods

To address this objective, the electronic medical records of all antiretroviral‐naïve adult pregnant women who were initiating CART for PMTCT between January 2006 and February 2009 within the Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), western Kenya, were reviewed. Outcomes of interest were clinician‐initiated change or stop in regimen, disengagement from programme (any, early, late) and self‐reported medication adherence. Disengagement was categorized as early disengagement (any interval of greater than 30 days between visits but returning to care prior to delivery) or late disengagement (no visit within 30 days prior to the date of delivery). The association between covariates and the outcomes of interest were assessed using bivariate (Kruskal‐Wallis test for continuous variables and the Chi‐square test for categorical variables) and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 4284 antiretroviral‐naïve pregnant women initiated CART between January 2006 and February 2009. The majority of women (89%) reported taking all of their medication at every visit. There were 18 (0.4%) deaths reported. Clinicians discontinued CART in 10 patients (0.7%) while 1367 (31.9%) women disengaged from care. Of those disengaging, 404 (29.6%) disengaged early and 963 (70.4%) late. In the multivariate model, the odds of disengagement decreased with increasing age (odds ratio [OR] 0.982; confidence interval [CI] 0.966–0.998) and increasing gestational age at CART initiation (OR 0.925; CI 0.909–0.941). Women receiving care at a district hospital (OR 0.794; CI 0.644–0.980) or tuberculosis medication (OR 0.457; CI 0.202–0.935) were less likely to disengage. The odds of disengagement were higher in married women (OR 1.277; CI 1.034–1.584). The odds of early disengagement decreased with increasing age at CART initiation (OR 0.902; CI 0.881–0.924). The odds of late disengagement decreased with increasing age at CART initiation (OR 0.936; CI 0.917–0.956). While they increased with higher CD4 counts at CART‐initiation (OR 1.001; CI 1.000–1001) and in married women (OR 1.297; CI 1.000–1.695)

Conclusions

In a PMTCT programme embedded in an antiretroviral treatment programme with an active outreach department, the majority (67.4%) of women remained engaged and received uninterrupted prenatal CART.
ART treatment costs and retention in care in Kenya: a cohort study in three rural outpatient clinics
Authors: Larson Bruce A , Bii Margaret , Henly‐Thomas Sarah , McCoy Kelly , Sawe Fredrick , Shaffer Douglas , Rosen Sydney
Published: January 2013

Introduction

After almost 10 years of PEPFAR funding for antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment programmes in Kenya, little is known about the cost of care provided to HIV‐positive patients receiving ART. With some 430,000 ART patients, understanding and managing costs is essential to treatment programme sustainability.

Methods

Using patient‐level data from medical records (n=120/site), we estimated the cost of providing ART at three treatment sites in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya (a clinic at a government hospital, a hospital run by a large agricultural company and a mission hospital). Costs included ARV and non‐ARV drugs, laboratory tests, salaries to personnel providing patient care, and infrastructure and other fixed costs. We report the average cost per patient during the first 12 months after ART initiation, stratified by site, and the average cost per patient achieving the primary outcome, retention in care 12 months after treatment initiation.

Results

The cost per patient initiated on ART was $206, $252 and $213 at Sites 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The proportion of patients remaining in care at 12 months was similar across all sites (0.82, 0.80 and 0.84). Average costs for the subset of patients who remained in care at 12 months was also similar (Site 1, $229; Site 2, $287; Site 3, $237). Patients not retained in care cost substantially less (Site 1, $104; Site 2, $113; Site 3, $88). For the subset of patients who remained in care at 12 months, ART medications accounted for 51%, 44% and 50% of the costs, with the remaining costs split between non‐ART medications (15%, 11%, 10%), laboratory tests (14%, 15%, 15%), salaries to personnel providing patient care (9%, 11%, 12%) and fixed costs (11%, 18%, 13%).

Conclusions

At all three sites, 12‐month retention in care compared favourably to retention rates reported in the literature from other low‐income African countries. The cost of providing treatment was very low, averaging $224 in the first year, less than $20/month. The cost of antiretroviral medications, roughly $120 per year, accounted for approximately half of the total costs per patient retained in care after 12 months.
The Placenta Regulates Intrauterine Fetal Growth via Exosomal PPARγ
Authors: Luo Xiaofang , Huang Biao , Xu Ping , Wang Hao , Zhang Baozhen , Lin Li , Liao Jiujiang , Hu Mingyu , Liu Xiyao , Huang Jiayu , Fu Yong , Kilby Mark D. , Kellems Rodney E. , Fan Xiujun , Xia Yang , Baker Philip N. , Qi Hongbo , Tong Chao
Published: February 2025

Abnormal adipogenesis is a major contributor to fetal growth restriction (FGR) and its associated complications. However, the underlying etiology remains unclear. Here, it is reported that the placentas of women with pregnancies complicated with FGR exhibit peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) inactivation. In mice, trophoblast‐specific ablation of murine PPARγ reproduces the phenotype of human fetuses with FGR and defective adipogenesis. Coculture of trophoblasts with preadipocytes significantly improves preadipocyte commitment and differentiation and increases the transcription of a series of adipogenic genes via intercellular transfer of exosomal PPARγ proteins. Moreover, nanoparticle‐mediated placenta‐specific delivery of rosiglitazone (RGZ) significantly rescues adipogenesis defects in an FGR‐induced mouse model. In summary, the placenta is a major reservoir of PPARγ. An insufficient supply of placental PPARγ to fetal preadipocytes via exosomes during late gestation is a major mechanism underlying FGR. Preclinically, placenta‐targeted RGZ administration can be a promising interventional therapy for FGR and/or defective intrauterine fat development.
Roles of Kdm6a and Kdm6b in Regulation of Mammalian Neural Regeneration
Authors: Yang Shu‐Guang , Li Chang‐Ping , Wang Xue‐Wei , Huang Tao , Qian Cheng , Li Qiao , Zhao Ling‐Rui , Zhou Si‐Yu , Ding Chen‐Yun , Nie Rui , Saijilafu  , Hong Yu‐Cai , Liu Chang‐Mei , Zhou Feng‐Quan
Published: February 2025

Epigenetic regulation of neuronal transcriptomic landscape is emerging to be a key coordinator of mammalian neural regeneration. The roles of two histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27) demethylases, Kdm6a/b, in controlling neuroprotection and axon regeneration are investigated here. Deleting either Kdm6a or Kdm6b leads to enhanced sensory axon regeneration in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), whereas in the central nervous system (CNS), only deleting Kdm6a in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) significantly enhances optic nerve regeneration. Moreover, both Kdm6a and Kdm6b function to regulate RGC survival but with different mechanisms. Mechanistically, Kdm6a regulates RGC regeneration via distinct pathway from that of Pten, and co‐deleting Kdm6a and Pten results in long distance optic nerve regeneration passing the optic chiasm. In addition, RNA‐seq profiling reveals that Kdm6a deletion switches the RGC transcriptomics into a developmental‐like state and suppresses several known repressors of neural regeneration. Klf4 is identified as a direct downstream target of Kdm6a‐H3K27me3 signaling in both sensory neurons and RGCs to regulate axon regeneration. These findings not only reveal different roles of Kdm6a and Kdm6b in regulation of neural regeneration and their underlying mechanisms, but also identify Kdm6a‐mediated histone demethylation signaling as a novel epigenetic target for supporting CNS neural regeneration.
Essential Role of the Anterior Piriform Cortex in Mediating Social Novelty Output via a Top–Down Circuit
Authors: Zhou Jingwei , Yin Zhaoyang , Chen Zhiyun , Fu Hanyu , Li Qun , Li Shan , Zhang Ying , Zhang Xianzhi , Tang Dewei , Li Anan , Wang Dejuan
Published: February 2025

Social novelty is indispensable for a wide range of social behaviors. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), along with other social information hubs, composes the foundational circuitry of social novelty. However, the precise circuit mechanisms that govern social novelty processing remain elusive. The piriform cortex, as the largest olfactory cortex, receives extensive innervation from top‐down centers that dictate social behavior. Here, it is shown that the anterior piriform cortex (APC) exhibited an increase in gamma event incidence during social engagement in male mice. In vivo electrophysiology and fiber photometry reveal that APC pyramidal neurons respond more intensely to novel mice than familiar ones. Intriguingly, silencing APC neurons selectively impairs social novelty processing, yet leaves the basic olfactory discrimination capabilities intact. Moreover, the APC inherits social cues from the mPFC and sends feedback projections to the olfactory bulb (OB) to modulate social novelty. These findings unveil the APC's role as extending well beyond olfaction, encompassing a specialized function in social novelty recognition in male mice.
Ultra‐Tough Copper–Copper Bonding by Nano‐Oxide‐Dispersed Copper Nanomembranes
Authors: Teng Yun , Zhu Wenqing , Wang Qing , Zhang Zhibo , Wang Hang , Guo Baisong , Yang Ziyin , Gong Hao , He Chuan , Qu Boxi , Feng Shien‐Ping , Yang Yong
Published: February 2025

Metal–metal bonding has played a pivotal role in advancing human technologies across various industrial sectors. As devices continue to miniaturize, there is an increasing need for efficient bonding techniques capable of achieving metal–metal bonds at smaller length scales. In this study, a facile but effective bonding technique is developed that enables the bonding of randomly oriented copper with copper nanomembranes under low temperatures and pressures. The fabricated copper nanomembranes, with a thickness of ≈50 nm and a width of 1 cm or above, exhibit a unique heterogeneous nanostructure, comprising copper nanocrystals along with nano‐copper‐oxide dispersions. Consequently, these copper nanomembranes display exceptional mechanical properties, including an ultra‐low elastic modulus of ≈35 GPa, a remarkable yield strength of ≈1 GPa, and excellent ductility of ≈40%, overcoming the conventional strength‐ductility trade‐off observed in various copper alloys. Most importantly, these ultra‐soft copper nanomembranes serve as metallic “glues”, promoting grain growth across the bonding interface between randomly oriented copper surfaces. This process leads to an average interfacial shear strength of up to 73 MPa at room temperature, representing an approximate 35 times increase in bonding strength compared to direct copper–copper bonding achieved under identical temperature and pressure conditions.
Adaptive Deployable Structure Enabled by Actively Controlled Tensegrity for Space Debris Removal
Authors: Shang Endong , Li Ao , Islam Md Shariful , Zhang Li‐Yuan , Cao Changyong (Chase)
Published: February 2025

The Earth's orbital environment is increasingly congested with space debris, posing a substantial risk to space operations and safety. Current mitigation strategies are primarily tailored to either small debris, through protective devices, or large debris, via spacecraft deorbiting methods, leaving medium‐sized debris (0.4–10 cm) as a significant unaddressed threat. This study introduces an innovative adaptive deployable structure, utilizing actively controlled tensegrity, designed specifically for the removal of medium debris. The basic configuration and deployment process of the structure is detailed, followed by an analysis of key structural parameters affecting its folding and deployment performance. Additionally, the load‐bearing capacity and impact resistance of the structure when integrated with a mesh fabric are evaluated. The optimal parameters and morphology for effective debris removal are identified, culminating in the construction of a 1:20 scale prototype for experimental validation. This structure not only adapts its configuration based on operational needs but also withstands impacts from space debris, thereby playing a crucial role in enhancing orbital safety.
Multifunctional Boron‐based 2D Nanoplatforms Ameliorate Severe Respiratory Inflammation by Targeting Multiple Inflammatory Mediators
Authors: Xu Changyi , Liu Ming , Xie Xinran , Li Zhixin , Zhu Yuefei , Ye Yang , Du Mengya , Hu Suhua , Liu Tianrun , Guo Yubiao , Wen Weiping , Liu Huanliang , Tu Zhaoxu
Published: February 2025

Effective management of serious respiratory diseases, such as asthma and recalcitrant rhinitis, remains a global challenge. Here, it is shown that induced sputum supernatants (ISS) from patients with asthma contain higher levels of cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) compared to that of healthy volunteers. Although cfDNA scavenging strategies have been developed for inflammation modulation in previous studies, this fall short in clinical settings due to the excessive neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) and bacterial infections in injured airway tissues. Based on this, a multifunctional boron‐based 2D nanoplatform B‐PM is designed by coating boron nanosheets (B‐NS) with polyamidoamine generation 1 (PG1) dendrimer, which can simultaneously target cfDNA, NETs, RONS, and bacteria. The effects of B‐PM in promoting mucosal repair, reducing airway inflammation, and mucus production have been demonstrated in model mice, and the therapeutic effect is superior to dexamethasone. Furthermore, flow cytometry with clustering analysis and transcriptome analysis with RNA‐sequencing are adopted to comprehensively evaluate the in vivo anti‐inflammation therapeutic effects. These findings emphasize the significance of a multi‐targeting strategy to modulate dysregulated inflammation and highlight multifunctional boron‐based 2D nanoplatforms for the amelioration of respiratory inflammatory diseases.
4D Assembly of Time‐dependent Lanthanide Supramolecular Multicolor Phosphorescence for Encryption and Visual Sensing
Authors: Wu Yun‐Ga , Zhou Wei‐Lei , Qiu Yugui , Wang Siwei , Liu Jinglin , Chen Yong , Xu Xiufang , Liu Yu
Published: February 2025

Supramolecular dynamic room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) is the focus of current research because of its wide application in biological imaging and information anti‐counterfeiting. Herein, a time‐dependent supramolecular lanthanide phosphorescent 4D assembly material with multicolor luminescence including white, which is composed of 4‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐pyridine salt derivative (G), inorganic clay (LP)/Eu complex and pyridine dicarboxylic acid (DPA) is reported. Compared with the self‐assembled nanoparticle G, the lamellar assembly G/LP showed the double emission of fluorescence at 380 nm and phosphorescence at 516 nm over time. Within 60 min, the phosphorescence lifetime and the quantum yield increases from none to 7.4 ms and 27.53% respectively, achieving the time‐dependent phosphorescence emission, due to the limitation of progressive stacking of LP electrostatically driven “domino effect.” Furthermore, the 4D assembly of DPA and G/LP/Eu leads to a time‐resolved multicolor emission from colorless to purple to white, which is successfully applied to information multi‐level logic anti‐counterfeiting and efficiently antibiotic selective sensor.
Honokiol‐Magnolol‐Baicalin Possesses Synergistic Anticancer Potential and Enhances the Efficacy of Anti‐PD‐1 Immunotherapy in Colorectal Cancer by Triggering GSDME‐Dependent Pyroptosis
Authors: Gao Quan , Sheng Qinsong , Yang Zijing , Zhu ZhiYu , Li Lin , Xu Lihui , Xia Jing , Qiao Yunhao , Gu Jie , Zhu Xiaolong , Xie Tian , Sui Xinbing
Published: February 2025

Significant progress is made in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients, however, therapeutic options remain limited for patients with mCRC. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained significant attention. Among these, Huangqin Houpo decoction has demonstrated efficacy in mCRC treatment. Despite its promise, the active ingredients and mechanisms underlying its anticancer effects remain unclear. Using integrative pharmacological approaches, six compounds are identified as the primary active ingredients in Huangqin Houpo decoction. Among them, honokiol (H), magnolol (M), and baicalin (B) are found to exhibit a synergistic anticancer effect on CRC. The HMB combination significantly outperforms mono‐ or bi‐agent treatments in reducing tumor growth. Furthermore, the anticancer efficacy of the HMB combination surpasses that of medium‐ and high‐dose Huangqin Houpo decoction and the FOLFOX regimen. Notably, HMB is comparable in efficacy to the FOLFOIRI regimen. Most importantly, HMB is shown to enhance the sensitivity of CRC cells to anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy in vivo. Mechanistic studies reveal that the HMB combination exerts its synergistic anticancer effects and enhances anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy by inducing GSDME‐dependent pyroptosis. Our study will hopefully provide a potential therapeutic strategy for mCRC patients in the future.
Mitoxantrone‐Encapsulated ZIF‐8 Enhances Chemo‐Immunotherapy via Amplified Immunogenic Cell Death
Authors: Li Junhong , Lv Wenxing , Han Ziwei , Li Yike , Deng Jinqi , Huang Yanjuan , Wan Shuo , Sun Jiashu , Dai Bo
Published: February 2025

Chemo‐immunotherapy, combining systemic chemotherapeutic drugs and immune checkpoint blockers, is a promising paradigm in cancer treatment. However, challenges such as limited induction of immune responses and systemic immune toxicity have hindered its clinical applications. Here, a zeolite imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) that encapsulates mitoxantrone (MIT), an immune cell death (ICD)‐inducing chemotherapeutic agent (MIT@ZIF‐8), is synthesized using a one‐pot aqueous‐phase process. ZIF‐8 serves as a dual‐functional nanomaterial for chemo‐immunotherapy: a carrier to enhance tumor uptake of MIT for improved chemotherapy efficacy, and a pyroptosis inducer to amplify MIT‐induced ICD for augmented anti‐tumor immune responses. As a result, in vivo administration of MIT@ZIF‐8 markedly inhibits tumor growth in both immunologically “hot” colon cancer and immunologically “cold” prostate cancer. Moreover, MIT@ZIF‐8 treatment increases the abundance of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and reduces the amount of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells in tumors, thereby enhancing anti‐tumor immunity and sensitizing prostate cancer to anti‐CTLA‐4 immunotherapy. In summary, MIT@ZIF‐8 offers a highly translational approach for chemo‐immunotherapy.
Evolutionary Perspectives, Comparative Approaches, and the Lived Experience of Menopause
Authors: Sievert Lynnette Leidy
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this synthesis is to review age at menopause, symptom experience at midlife, and the evolution of menopause in a way that is helpful for biological anthropologists who are interested in the study of this challenging time of life. The synthesis begins with the biology of menopause, then shifts to the evolution of menopause with an emphasis on phylogenetic and adaptationist perspectives. Discussion of the biology and evolution of menopause incorporates a cross‐species perspective, with particular attention to whales and primates. The synthesis continues with a cross‐population review of variation in age at menopause. The final section is about symptom experience across populations with attention to the medical context of midlife, a focus on hot flashes, and consideration of the strengths and limitations of ethnographic and questionnaire‐based research. The review ends with suggestions for where biological anthropology can make important contributions to the research of midlife and menopause.
From the Design of LIonomers to the Development of Maleic Anhydride‐Grafted‐Polypropylene (PPgMA) Microcellular Foams
Authors: Hou Liutong , Gérard Jean‐François , Livi Sébastien , Duchet‐Rumeau Jannick
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a new route is reported to design ionic liquid branched polypropylene (PP) from the reaction of 1‐aminoethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide ([AEMIM] Br) and maleic anhydride grafted‐PP (PPgMA). Therefore, LIonomers, the 2.0 generation of ionomers, have been obtained. Series of LIonomers with different structures and morphologies are prepared via (i) tuning maleic anhydride (MA) and [AEMIM] Br contents, (ii) dispersion of ionic liquid, and (iii) the ionic liquids branches assembling. The microstructure especially the location and assembling of grafted [AEMIM] Br is determined by exploring the relaxation behavior of the materials. Thus, a significant increase of the melt viscosity resulting from the ionic interactions between ionic liquid branches is evidenced by shear rheology. As a consequence, foaming behavior of the neat PP and LIonomers are investigated by using supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) as foaming agent. All LIonomers show significantly improved foamability (expansion ratio, cell diameter, cell density and porosity) and compressive properties. These ones are mainly controlled by the assembling of ionic branches for LIonomers leading to a size of the ionic rich domains of about 60 μm. This phenomenon is attributed to the good compromise between rheological behavior and interactions established with CO2.
Composites With Epoxy‐Modified Waterborne Polyurethane Sizing Agents Enhance Mechanical and Thermal Properties
Authors: Song Shuoyao , Wu Dongliang , Xing Yuxuan , Qin Xuhao , Liu Xiaodong , Hu Chuanxiu , Ma Zhikai , Du Songyan , Liu Lei , Zhang Ruliang
Published: February 2025

The interface is critical to the mechanical properties of carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. This research introduced a range of epoxy‐modified waterborne polyurethane (WEPU) sizing agents to improve both the mechanical performance and interfacial properties of composites. The investigation focused on the effect of different sizing agent concentrations and the amount of epoxy resin added on the mechanical properties of the composites. In particular, 1.5% concentration of the WEPU‐4% agent provided the most significant improvement in CFRP interfacial strength. Carbon fiber (CF) treated with this agent exhibited a tensile strength of 3.27GPa, an increase of 6.58%. The contact angle between the fiber and epoxy was reduced from 54° to 48°, improving the wettability of the resin on the CF surface. In addition, the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of the composites increased to 79.09 MPa, an improvement of 37.29%. This study provides an efficient and effective approach to WPU modification that significantly improves the interfacial performance at the CF–resin interface. The sizing agent synthesis is straightforward and efficient, in line with contemporary principles of environmental sustainability.
Magnetite‐Functionalized Molecularly Imprinted Polymer for Selective Removal of Dimethyl Phthalate
Authors: Andreas Andreas , Fauzia Syiffa , Aristiawan Yosi , Muzdalifah Dian , Sari Septia Ratna
Published: February 2025

Dimethyl phthalate (DMP), a plasticizer, causes several health issues and is dangerous for the environment. Thus, recent work has investigated a selective method, molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP), for DMP removal. MIP was synthesized via radical polymerization (bulk polymerization). The ratio of template to monomer was 1:4 mmol. A non‐imprinted polymer (MNIP) was prepared for comparison as well. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum showed a Si‐O‐Si bond at 1100–1050 cm−1 and a Fe‐O bond at 567.07 cm−1 indicating Fe3O4 has been successfully covered by SiO2. The DMP was characterized by the vibration of O‐H at wavenumber 1111–1151.50 cm−1 for MMIP. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated a spherical‐like particle of MMIP. Meanwhile, MNIP has a rough surface with uniform particles. The particle sizes of MMIP and MNIP were 2.675 and 2.231 nm, respectively. The optimum conditions were achieved at pH 9, contact time 60 min with adsorption capacity 175.60 μg/mg for MMIP and 172.41 μg/mg for MNIP. The percent efficiency of MMIP for DMP recognition in river water was 97.20%. The adsorption of DMP onto MMIP and MNIP obeyed the Langmuir isotherm and the pseudo‐second‐order model, denoting a chemical monolayer adsorption process through hydrogen bonding.
UNUSUAL COORDINATION TYPE OF THE HALOGENATED BIAN LIGANDS IN SILVER(I) COMPLEXES
Authors: Komlyagina Veronika Igorevna , Bakaev Ivan Vladimirovich , Romashev Nikolay Filippovich , Gushchin Artem Leonidovich
Published: February 2025

This work presents the synthesis and crystal structures of novel Ag(I) complexes based on 1,2‐bis[4‐chlorophenyl)imino]acenaphthene (4‐Cl‐C6H4‐bian) and 1,2‐bis[4‐iodophenyl)imino]acenaphthene (4‐I‐C6H4‐bian). The interaction of AgCF3SO3 with 4‐Cl‐C6H4‐bian led to exclusively tetrahedral complex [Ag(4‐Cl‐C6H4‐bian)2](CF3SO3) (1) in a 90 % yield. In contrast, the same reaction with 4‐I‐C6H4‐bian led to the formation of both tetrahedral complex [Ag(4‐I‐C6H4‐bian)2](CF3SO3) (2) and unexpected binuclear complex [Ag2(µ‐4‐I‐C6H4‐bian)2(4‐I‐C6H4‐NH2)2](CF3SO3)2 (3), in which 4‐I‐C6H4‐bian acts as a bridging ligand linking two Ag(I) ions via N‐ and I‐donor atoms. X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed an anomalously long Ag–I distance (3.0833(3) Å) in 3, resulting in duality in determining the coordination mode of the Ag(I) ion. This could be a trigonal geometry (AgN3, CN = 3) or a strongly distorted trigonal‐pyramidal [3+1] coordination (AgN3I, CN = 4). To establish the nature of the metal–ligand interactions in complexes 1‐3 and determine the coordination number of Ag(I) in complex 3, a comprehensive theoretical study (DFT calculations) was carried out using four molecular descriptors: quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), electron localization function (ELF), interacting quantum atoms (IQA) and second‐order perturbation theory analysis of the natural bond orbital (NBO).
Natürliche Recarbonatisierung von Kalksandstein: Ein neuer Ansatz zur Bewertung der Nachhaltigkeit
Authors: Eden Wolfgang , Fouad Nabil A. , Istanbuly Zakaria
Published: February 2025

Die Recarbonatisierung von Kalksandstein stellt einen natürlichen Prozess dar, bei dem während der Nutzungsphase die bei der Autoklavierung gebildeten Calcium‐Silikathydrate (CSH‐Phasen) CO2 aus der Umgebungsluft absorbieren. Der vorliegende Beitrag präsentiert die Ergebnisse umfassender Untersuchungen zur Recarbonatisierung von Kalksandstein, die im Zeitraum von 2021 bis 2024 an 76 repräsentativen Proben mittels chemisch‐mineralogischer Analysen durchgeführt wurden. Eine zentrale Erkenntnis dieser Untersuchungen ist, dass eine Tonne Kalksandstein etwa 50 kg CO2 dauerhaft binden kann. Die Recarbonatisierung verläuft allmählich von außen nach innen in das Kalksandsteinmaterial hinein und wird innerhalb eines Zeitraums von 50 Jahren vollständig abgeschlossen. Darüber hinaus wird in diesem Beitrag ein neuartiger Berechnungsansatz vorgestellt, der eine Quantifizierung und Bewertung der Nachhaltigkeit von Kalksandstein ermöglicht. Neben der Integration ökologischer, ökonomischer und technischer Parameter wird durch diesen Ansatz auch eine fundierte Prognose der durch Recarbonatisierung gebundenen CO2‐Mengen über definierte Zeiträume hinweg ermöglicht.
Bildgebende Schlierenverfahren zur Visualisierung von Raumluftströmungen in der Bauphysik
Authors: Benetas Lia , Wakoya Gena Amayu , Alsaad Hayder , Völker Conrad
Published: February 2025

Zur Visualisierung und Messung von Luftströmungen werden oft invasive Verfahren angewendet, welche die Strömung durch das Einbringen von Sensoren (bspw. Anemometer) oder Partikeln (bspw. Particle Image Velocimetry) beeinflussen. Alternativen bilden die Schlierenverfahren, namentlich das optische Schlierenverfahren mit Schlierenspiegel sowie das Background‐Oriented Schlierenverfahren (BOS), die an der Professur Bauphysik der Bauhaus‐Universität Weimar insbesondere zur Visualisierung von Raumluftströmungen optimiert wurden. Beide Verfahren arbeiten nicht‐invasiv und visualisieren Luftströmungen, die auf Dichtegradienten im Medium beruhen. Folgend werden beide Verfahren sowie verschiedene Anwendungen und Möglichkeiten zur quantitativen Auswertung vorgestellt. Die dargestellten Studien beleuchten Strömungen, die sowohl aus natürlicher wie auch erzwungener Konvektion resultieren und reichen von der Visualisierung personalisierter Lüftungssysteme über das Mikroklima des Menschen einschließlich der Ausbreitung der Atemluft in verschiedenen Szenarien (u. a. Tragen verschiedener Mund‐Nase‐Bedeckungen, beim Blasinstrumentenspiel und Singen, bei sportlicher Betätigung und nasaler Highflow‐Therapie) bis hin zur Untersuchung des Mikroklimas verschiedener Forschungsgegenstände (Betonzylinder und Globe‐Thermometer). Es wird angeregt, die Schlierenverfahren anzuwenden, um Raumluftströmungen in weiteren bauphysikalischen und angrenzenden Fachgebieten holistisch zu untersuchen.
Flüssigkunststoff‐Abdichtung für befahrbare Holzkonstruktionen: Alterung und Zugeigenschaften
Authors: Wick Adrian , Volkmer Thomas , Übelhör Dirk
Published: February 2025

Befahrbare Holzdeckkonstruktionen findet man in der Form von Fußgänger‐ und Fahrradbrücken sowie Verkehrsflächen von Parkhäusern oder Autobrücken. Zu Gewährleistung einer langfristigen Funktionstüchtigkeit müssen Holzdecks üblicherweise vor dem Auffeuchten geschützt werden. Herkömmliche Systeme nutzen Bitumen als Abdichtung und Gussasphalt als Schutz‐ und Nutzschicht. Als Alternative wurde ein System auf der Basis von Flüssigkunststoff entwickelt. Die Vorteile sind: eine niedrigere Einbauhöhe, Gewichtsreduzierung, geringere Blasenbildung, schnellere Verarbeitung und die Zugänglichkeit für Inspektionen. Aufgrund der größeren Verformungen von Holzkonstruktionen im Vergleich zu Stahl‐ oder Betonkonstruktionen, bedingt durch die inhärenten Eigenschaften des niedrigeren E‐Moduls des orthotropen und hygroskopischen Materialverhaltens von Holz, kommt es dennoch vermehrt zu Rissbildungen. Ein bereits zugelassenes und verwendetes System für Betondecks, das auf heiß aufgesprühtem Polyurea basiert, wurde als vielversprechende Lösung erkannt. Anhand einer künstlichen Bewitterung wurde der Einfluss der Alterung gesondert am Polymersystem untersucht. Obwohl optisch nur eine begrenzte Veränderung an der Oberfläche der Versiegelung erkennbar ist, zeigen die mechanischen Zugprüfungen, dass es trotzdem zu einer ganzheitlichen Veränderung des Polymers kommt. Zudem können die Zugresultate durch die Prüfkörperhalterung beeinflusst werden, da thermische Ausdehnungen lokale Dehnungen verursachen, die das Polymer stärker schädigen als UV‐Strahlung.
Did court dismiss employee's Title VII claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: February 2025

A Black woman was employed as the director of student support services at Coker University. The director's supervisor was a white female. As part of the director's role, she managed the Carryforward Fund, which provided financial resources for student services. At some point during the director's employment, her supervisor allegedly began to undermine her by taking away her responsibility for the Carryforward Fund. This removal violated U.S. Department of Education grant guidelines, which required that the Director of Student Support Services manage the funds.
Review rulings involving medical leave
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: February 2025

An overview of the key topics faced by higher education professionals with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Continuous Titration Based Method for Rapid In‐Solution Analysis of Non‐Covalent Interactions
Authors: Willmer Philipp , Hundahl Adam C. , Marie Rodolphe , Jensen Henrik
Published: February 2025

Development of new drugs typically involves the identification and validation of molecular inhibitors or promotors of endogenous biological processes. The identification of ligands that can bind the target of interest is typically achieved by screening large libraries of small molecules, using analytical methods that only provide yes/no answers. These methods are only qualitative and often associated with unacceptable amounts of false positives and negatives. Quantitative methods are in general more accurate but time intensive. This is mainly due to repeating measurements of a dilution series in order to generate a titration curve and measure the dissociation constant (Kd). In this work, we introduce Continuous Titration Based Spectral Related Intensity Change (cSPRING), that combines Taylor dispersion analysis (TDA) with ratiometric fluorescence detection to measure a Kd in a single experiment. cSPRING is an in‐solution method that reduces the sample preparation time 8‐fold and requires only nanograms of protein. We show a good agreement of cSPRING with other quantitative methods for three well‐known protein‐small molecule interactions with binding affinities ranging from the low nanomolar to high micromolar. In addition, we show that cSPRING is able to measure binding affinities in under a minute, highlighting its efficiency and potential for screening applications.
Exploring Bonding in Bioinorganic Chemistry: Ab Initio Valence Bond Calculations of Iron(II)‐CO and Iron(IV)‐Oxo Units in Cytochrome P450 under Oriented External Electric Fields
Authors: Zhang Enhua , Hirao Hajime
Published: February 2025

We performed ab initio valence bond (VB) calculations under oriented external electric fields (OEEFs) to explore the bonding nature of iron(II)‐CO and iron(IV)‐oxo units in cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s). By utilizing ligand‐free models and analyzing changes in electronic structures under OEEFs, we gained insights into how ligands influence the iron center in realistic environments. Our findings revealed that ligand effects in P450s, exerted by the proximal and equatorial ligands, align with an electric field of approximately −0.125 to −0.100 au along the bond axis (Fz). Additionally, the proximal thiolate ligand alone corresponds to a weaker field, with Fz values around −0.060 to −0.050 au. Negative Fz values enhanced π backdonation while suppressing σ donation in iron(II)‐CO, whereas positive Fz values exhibited the opposite trend. Furthermore, negative Fz values significantly stabilized VB structures with higher oxidation states of Fe in iron(IV)‐oxo. In the absence of OEEFs, the oxidation state of Fe in iron(IV)‐oxo is predominantly Fe(II). However, under negative Fz values, VB structures with Fe(III) character become considerably more stable. These findings underscore the significant influence of external electric fields – and by extension, ligands – on the electronic properties of metal‐containing bioinorganic systems.
Lack of Pharmacokinetic Drug–Drug Interactions Between Bepirovirsen and Nucleos(t)ide Analogs
Authors: Han Kelong , Youssef Amir S. , Magee Mindy , Hood Steve , Tracey Helen , Kwoh Jesse , Theodore Dickens , Paff Melanie , Nader Ahmed
Published: February 2025

Bepirovirsen is an antisense oligonucleotide currently in Phase 3 development to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Given the importance of coadministration of bepirovirsen and standard‐of‐care nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs), we evaluated drug–drug interactions (DDIs) between bepirovirsen, entecavir (ETV), and tenofovir (TFV) using in vitro and clinical data obtained through innovative study design and sampling strategy. Static models employing in vitro data indicated that bepirovirsen is not a direct inhibitor or inducer of most drug‐metabolizing enzymes or an inhibitor or substrate of drug transporters and poses no clinical DDI risk against NAs. Bepirovirsen plasma pharmacokinetic parameters and concentration–time profiles in patients with chronic HBV in the CS3 study (NCT02981602) were similar with or without ETV or TFV coadministration, indicating no effect of NA coadministration on bepirovirsen pharmacokinetics. In patients with chronic HBV receiving both bepirovirsen and ETV or TFV in the B‐Clear study (NCT04449029), NA plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetic parameters were similar to those published without bepirovirsen coadministration, suggesting no effect of bepirovirsen coadministration on NA pharmacokinetics. This analysis demonstrated no DDI potential between bepirovirsen and NAs, suggesting that dedicated clinical DDI studies are not required. Bepirovirsen is currently being evaluated in Phase 3 studies in combination with NA.