bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teachers' perceptions, attitudes, and acceptance of artificial intelligence (AI) educational learning tools: An exploratory study on AI literacy for young students
Authors: Yim Iris Heung Yue , Wegerif Rupert
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) literacy education for young students is gaining traction among researchers and educators. Researchers are developing courses and attempting to teach AI literacy to younger students, using age‐appropriate AI educational learning tools. Although teachers play a crucial role in AI literacy education, their perceptions and attitudes have received little attention. This study explores the perceptions of 60 teachers regarding the use of AI educational learning tools, and examines the factors influencing their attitudes in relation to implementing AI literacy education. The technological acceptance model and the technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (CK) (TPACK) framework inform the research design, and a mixed method, combining the statistical package for Social Science and thematic analysis, is employed for data analysis. The study reveals that teachers have positive perceptions regarding the usefulness and ease of use of AI educational learning tools in their AI literacy teaching. This paper also reveals that teachers embrace an arts‐based approach to teaching AI literacy. The qualitative data reveal that teachers face challenges such as insufficient CK and experience with AI; and knowledge of TPACK. The five factors affecting their acceptance of AI educational learning tools are: (a) teachers' perceptions of their AI CK and experience in teaching AI literacy (technological content knowledge); (b) technical challenges and stakeholder acceptance; (c) the attributes of AI educational learning tools; (d) school infrastructure and budget constraints; and (e) potential for distraction and negative emotional responses. This study offers insights for policymakers regarding professional development initiatives and technical support mechanisms, thereby facilitating more effective AI literacy implementation.
Thermal Release Behaviour of Six Aldehyde Flavours Under Heating Condition
Authors: Zhang Junsong , Tian Qianhua , Xie Jiqing , Rao Xianli , Li Ruili , Zhou Tianyu , Zheng Xiaoyun , Wang Jiaqi , Liang Miao
Published: November 2024

The investigation of the thermal release properties of flavours under heating conditions is essential for their application in related products. Herein, the thermal release processes of six typical aldehyde flavours with different boiling points were evaluated via thermogravimetric‐derivative thermogravimetric (TG‐DTG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). To further study the relative proportions of prototype evaporation and the pyrolytic products under heating conditions, we developed a temperature‐controlled tube furnace combined with thermal release products capturing device to simulate the pyrolysis process of aldehyde flavours under temperature of 350°C and three atmospheres (9%, 21% oxygen and 100% nitrogen), respectively. The TG‐DTG curves showed that the selected flavours exhibited different thermal weight loss processes in terms of temperature range, initial release temperature (Ti), temperature at maximum weight loss rate (Tmax) and final release temperature (Tf). The Tmax of six aldehyde flavours was located between 173.73°C and 269.12°C depending on the thermal stability. Among them, cinnamaldehyde and p‐anisaldehyde possessed the lowest and highest comprehensive release index (CRI) values of 1.07 × 10−3%/(min × oC2) and 9.81 × 10−3%/(min × oC2), respectively. Meanwhile, DSC analysis showed that all aldehyde flavours exhibited different heat absorption behaviour, and the enthalpy changes ranged from 236.10 to 393.80 J/g. According to the distribution of released pyrolytic products, the selected flavours can be classified as stabilised aldehydes and significantly pyrolytic aldehydes, and the heating atmospheres exhibited an obvious effect on the thermal release behaviour of aldehyde flavours. In addition, the possible pyrolysis schemes of significantly pyrolytic aldehydes were proposed based on the molecular structure.
Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide Alleviates Amyloid‐β‐Induced Toxicity in the Caenorhabditis elegans Model
Authors: An Lu , Wang Wenbo , Chu Jihao , An Lin , Geng Bingyu , Fu Xueqi , Chen Jing , Ma Junfeng
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) poses a significant global health challenge, primarily characterized by the aggregation of β‐amyloid (Aβ) peptides and associated oxidative stress. Given the lack of effective AD drugs, we investigated the effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP), a water‐soluble polysaccharide from goji berries, on Aβ scavenging, aggregation, and Aβ‐induced toxicity using the transgenic AD nematode. LBP treatment delayed paralysis, mitigated Aβ‐induced chemotaxis deficits, and reduced Aβ1–42 deposition and oligomer formation in AD nematodes. Furthermore, LBP supplementation alleviated Aβ‐induced oxidative stress and improved oxidative stress resistance through the insulin/insulin growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) signaling (IIS) pathway. Evaluation of the Aβ clearance pathway revealed that LBP attenuated Aβ toxicity by increasing proteasome activity rather than lysosomal levels. Basic physiological assessments further indicated that LBP was non‐toxic in vivo and promoted nematode health. Our findings suggest that LBP ameliorates AD‐like symptoms in nematodes by activating the IIS pathway to reduce oxidative stress and enhancing proteasomal activity to clear Aβ aggregates, providing a new theoretical basis for considering LBP as a promising therapeutic drug for AD and related oxidative stress complications.
Numerical Investigation and Machine Learning Predictions for Enhanced Thermal Management in Pulsating Heat Pipes: Modeling Turbulent Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics in Nuclear Applications
Authors: Khosravian Erfan
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive numerical investigation of the performance of pulsating heat pipes (PHPs) within nuclear reactor cooling systems. A volume of fluid (VOF) method was used to simulate the complex multiphase flow, providing detailed insights into fluid distribution, phase interactions, and temperature variations under different operating conditions. The simulations revealed distinct phase separation and convective flow patterns that enhance heat transfer efficiency, which is critical for optimizing thermal management in nuclear reactors. Additionally, artificial neural network (ANN) models were employed to predict volume fractions and wall temperatures, achieving high accuracy with R2 values of 0.99 and 0.98, respectively, and low mean absolute errors (MAE). The ANN models also reduced computational time by 90% compared to traditional numerical simulations. These findings highlight the potential of PHPs to improve heat transfer in nuclear systems and demonstrate the practicality of ANN models for real‐time thermal optimization. The research contributes to enhancing the safety and efficiency of nuclear reactor cooling systems, with broader implications for thermal management across various engineering applications.
Isolation, Structure Elucidation, and Bioactivity Evaluation of Two Alkaloids From Piper chaba H. Stem: A Traditional Medicinal Spice and Its Chemico‐Pharmacological Aspects
Authors: Shandhi Shabiba Parvin , Richi Fahmida Tasnim , Alam Safaet , Ahamed Kutub Uddin , Emon Nazim Uddin , Ahmed Najneen , Shao Chuxiao , Wang Shuanghu , Geng Peiwu , Al Mamun Abdullah
Published: November 2024

Bangladesh is endowed with an abundance of excellent medicinal plant resources. A well‐known traditional medicinal plant Piper chaba H. from the Piperaceae family is rich in bioactive phytochemicals that have antidiarrheal, antimicrobial, analgesic, antioxidant, anticancer, and cytotoxic effects. This plant is locally known as “Chuijhal,” and the stem is used as spices. In the current research program, the stems of the P. chaba plant were selected and its chemical and biological investigations such as antidiarrheal, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects were performed. Moreover, docking models were accomplished by exploiting PyRx‐Virtual Screening software and implied that isolated compounds of P. chaba exert different pharmacological activity by inhibiting their targeted receptors. Phytochemical investigations revealed the isolation of Chingchengenamide A, a relatively rare alkaloid from the stems of P. chaba. Another alkaloid Chabamide I which is a piperine dimer was also isolated. Their structures were confirmed by comparing these compounds' spectral data (1H and 13C NMR) with their previously published spectral data. Antidiarrheal activity shows a percent reduction of diarrhea by 46.67% and 40%, respectively, for Chabamide I and Chingchengenamide A (at 20 mg/kg b.w.) compared with an 80% reduction by standard loperamide. Similarly, the percent reduction of writhing was 53.06% and 42.86%, respectively, for Chabamide I and Chingchengenamide A at similar doses compared with an 80% reduction by diclofenac sodium considered as standard. Both the alkaloids showed auspicious outcomes against test microorganisms during disk diffusion antimicrobial assay. Molecular docking and ADME/T analysis of the alkaloids also validate a potent pharmacological basis for the traditional utilization of P. chaba in treating diarrhea, pain, and microbial infection. These results emphasize the need to investigate P. chaba as a potential source of natural therapies for common health issues, laying the foundation for future research.
The Mediterranean Valleys Revisited
Authors: Bintliff John
Published: November 2024

The publication of The Mediterranean Valleys by Claudio Vita‐Finzi in 1969 produced a radical change in research perspectives for our understanding of the timing and causation of erosional and depositional sequences in this macro‐region. This article will trace the debates that arose from this book and outline our current understanding of the interaction between human impact, short‐ and long‐term climatic fluctuations and landscape variability in moulding the development of Mediterranean surface landforms during the Holocene era.
Frailty and the Survival Outcomes of Patients With Laryngeal Squamous Cell Cancer
Authors: McCann Cameron , Hurley Rhona , McGovern Josh , Knight Katrina , Rattray Nicholas J. W. , Douglas Catriona M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Frailty increases the risk of mortality in the head and neck cancer population. This study examines the association between frailty and survival outcomes in patients with laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC).

Method

Retrospective data collection from patients in the West of Scotland diagnosed with LSCC between 2014 and 2020. The Modified Five Item Frailty Index (mFI‐5) measures frailty and categorizes patients according to their level of frailty. Statistical tests used were the Mann–Whitney U‐test or ANOVA for differences in means and survival analyses for overall survival time.

Results

There were 867 patients included. Seventy‐eight percent (n = 676) of patients were deemed frail. Median survival for “not frail” patients was 78 months and “severely frail” was 23 months. The palliative treatment group had worse overall survival outcomes compared to curative (hazard ratio (HR) of 7.96, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates frailty is common in patients with LSCC and leads to worse mortality and survival outcomes.
Use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for severe toxicological exposure
Authors: Wu Ping , Wong Oi Fung , Chan Cheuk Yan , Chan Kai Wing , Ling Steven Kin Ho , Chow Tin Yat Anthony , Liong Ting , Chan Chi Keung
Published: November 2024

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is used in Hong Kong to provide additional circulation and respiratory support to patients. Exposure to toxins could cause profound shock and respiratory failure. The role of using ECMO to support severe circulatory and respiratory failure in patients with a toxicological cause of admission in Hong Kong is explored in this study.

Objective

This study aims to describe the local practice of the use of ECMO in poisoning in Hong Kong.

Method

This was a retrospective analysis of patients receiving ECMO for toxicological‐related causes between January 2013 and December 2023. Indications, the poisons of concern, and the mortality of the patients were reviewed.

Results

We reported a total of 20 cases during the study period. Fourteen of them received VA‐ECMO, and six of them received VV‐ECMO. The most common poisons in patients receiving VA‐ECMO were calcium channel blockers and beta blockers. The ICU mortality rate for patients receiving VV‐ECMO was 16.6%, whereas it was 42.8% for those receiving VA‐ECMO. Of the 4 patients who received ECPR, the mortality rate was 75%. Most of the patients who survived had excellent cerebral performance category at 3 months.

Conclusion

ECMO might be a useful modality for providing temporary respiratory and circulatory support to poisoned patients.
Tacrolimus versus hydrocortisone in management of atopic dermatitis in children, a randomized controlled double‐blind study: New insights on TARC, CTACK, TSLP, and E‐selectin
Authors: Binsaleh Ammena Y. , Kotkata Fedaa A. , Bahaa Mostafa M. , Hamouda Amir O. , El‐Gammal Mohamad A. , Elberri Aya Ibrahim , Selim Hend Mostafa , El‐samongy Marwa Ahmed , Hamouda Manal A. , Mokhtar Fatma A. , Fahmy Sherif Ashraf , Elmasri Thanaa A. , Elberri Eman I.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a type of chronic inflammatory disorder that affects all age groups including children. AD is characterized by elevated inflammatory marker levels.

Aim

To assess the safety and effectiveness of topical tacrolimus ointment versus topical hydrocortisone cream in the treatment of pediatric AD by comparing the two treatments' ability to reduce serum cytokines.

Patients and Methods

One hundred AD patients who fulfilled the eligibility criteria completed this clinical study. Two groups of 50 AD patients each were selected from Tanta University's Dermatology Department., Group 1 (the hydrocortisone group) was administered topical hydrocortisone cream for a duration of 4 months. For 4 months, Group 2 was administered tacrolimus topically. Serum levels of thymus and activation regulated chemokine (TARC), cutaneous T cell attractant chemokine (CTAC), interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), E selectin (E‐selectin), and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) were measured during an evaluation of the patients by a dermatologist at the beginning and 4 months after the treatment had been started. Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index was used to assess quality of life in these patients.

Results

With the exception of E‐selectin, IL‐6, and IL‐10 (p > .05), the tacrolimus group had a significant reduction in TARC, CTACK, TSLP (p < .05) when compared to its baseline and when compared to the hydrocortisone group. Both groups showed a significant improvement in quality of life but no significant changes between groups were observed.

Conclusion

In children with AD, tacrolimus reduces inflammatory biomarkers better than hydrocortisone.
Participation and relative cost of attendance by direct‐mail compared to opt‐in invitation strategy for HPV self‐sampling targeting cervical screening non‐attenders: A large‐scale, randomized, pragmatic study
Authors: Pedersen Birgitte Tønnes , Sonne Si Brask , Pedersen Helle , Andreasen Emilie Korsgaard , Serizawa Reza , Ejegod Ditte Møller , Bonde Jesper
Published: November 2024

Broad accessibility to cervical cancer screening and high participation rate is essential to reduce cervical cancer incidence. HPV self‐sampling is an alternative to clinician collected cervical samples to increase accessibility and screening coverage. To inform on deployment strategies of HPV self‐sampling, this large‐scale, randomized, pragmatic study compared two invitation modalities; direct‐mail and opt‐in. The study included screening non‐attenders from the Capital Region of Denmark randomly allocated (1:4) to a direct‐mail or opt‐in invitation for cervical screening by HPV self‐sampling. Primary endpoint was screening participation; secondary endpoints were HPV prevalence and histology outcome. Adherence to follow‐up and cost were also evaluated. After exclusion of hysterectomized/non‐accessible women, 49,393 women were invited: 9639 by direct‐mail, and 39,754 by the opt‐in offer. A direct‐mail invitation for HPV self‐sampling yielded a significant higher participation than an opt‐in invitation. HPV self‐sample participation for direct‐mail was 25.2% (n = 2426), opt‐in participation was 20.2% (n = 8047), adjusted OR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.20–1.34. Participation increased with age (p < .0001) for both strategies and decreased with screening history of non‐attendance (p < .0001). Interaction between invitation strategy and age/screening history was found; more women below 50 years of age participated by direct‐mail compared to opt‐in (p < .0001) and higher participation by direct‐mail group was found in women with a short history of non‐attendance (p < .0001). Participation of long‐term unscreened women was similar between arms. The relative cost was ≈14 HPV self‐sample kits distributed per additional participant by direct‐mail over opt‐in. HPV prevalence, adherence to follow‐up, and detection of high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia was similar between invitation strategies.
Calcium sensing receptor expression is downregulated in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours via epigenetic mechanisms
Authors: English Katherine A. , Goldsworthy Michelle , Willis Brittannie , Kooblall Kreepa G. , Birla Shweta , Selberherr Andreas , Stevenson Mark , Shariq Omair A. , Oberg Ann L. , Wang Tony , Carmichael James , Mavrommatis Konstantinos , Escoubet Laure , Thakker Rajesh V. , Howles Sarah A. , Lines Kate E.
Published: November 2024

Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (GEP‐NETs), which may be hormone secreting (e.g., gastrinomas and insulinomas) or non‐secreting (also known as non‐functioning NETs) are associated with severe morbidity and have a median overall survival of 75–124 months. Studies have highlighted the importance of epigenetic mechanisms in GEP‐NETs pathogenesis, with the most frequently mutated genes being the epigenetic regulators, MEN1, DAXX, and ATRX. However, the consequences of these aberrant epigenetic mechanisms are poorly understood. The calcium sensing receptor (CASR), a G protein coupled‐receptor, is epigenetically silenced in cancers, and therefore we examined its role in GEP‐NET subtypes. Using RNA‐Scope and quantitative PCR analyses in two independent tumour cohorts from Europe (n = 18 patients) and the USA (n = 46 patients) we showed that CASR mRNA is almost completely absent in gastrinomas, insulinomas and non‐functioning pancreatic NETs. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining confirmed a significant reduction in CaSR protein expression in all GEP‐NET subtypes, compared to normal islets. DNA methylationEPIC and ATAC‐seq analyses in the pancreatic NET cell line QGP‐1 showed the CaSR promoter was both hypermethylated and in a region of closed chromatin. Furthermore, transfection of wild type CaSR into QGP‐1 cells decreased cell viability, in keeping with the CaSR having a role in cellular proliferation. In summary, our study reveals that CaSR expression is decreased in GEP‐NETs and that this reduced expression is likely due to DNA methylation and chromatin changes. Moreover, we demonstrate that transfection of the CaSR into a PNET cell line reduces cell viability, thereby indicating that the CaSR acts as a tumour suppressor in this tumour type.
Diagnosis, management and treatment of acquired uterine arteriovenous malformation: A case series and literature review
Authors: Yu Lei , Xiao Xue
Published: November 2024

The rising prevalence of cesarean sections, abortions, and other surgical interventions involving the uterus has led to an increased incidence of acquired uterine arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). These malformations primarily present as vaginal bleeding, which can significantly impair the quality of life for affected individuals and can pose life‐threatening risks in severe instances. Currently, there exists considerable variability in the clinical manifestations, treatment indications, and outcomes associated with uterine AVMs, which substantially complicates clinical diagnosis and management. In this report, we present five cases of uterine AVM that developed following abortion and were treated at our institution. The patients underwent various treatment modalities, with all but one achieving a high rate of fertility preservation. We underscore the importance of tailoring AVM treatment to factors such as patient age, volume of vaginal bleeding, urgency of the situation, size of the lesion, and fertility aspirations.
Post‐abortal/postpartum uterine vascular malformations: Are they overdiagnosed?
Authors: Katoch Tanvi , Jain Vanita , Bagga Rashmi , Suri Vanita , Bhujade Harish
Published: November 2024

Synopsis

We found that patients with subtle vascular retained products of conception may present as suspected uterine vascular malformations.
Ergothioneine Ameliorates Liver Fibrosis by Inhibiting Glycerophospholipids Metabolism and TGF‐β/Smads Signaling Pathway: Based on Metabonomics and Network Pharmacology
Authors: Mao Yaping , Xie Zhenghui , Zhang Xiangxia , Fu Yu , Yu Xiaotong , Deng Lili , Zhang Xiu , Hou Bo , Wang Xiao , Ma Mingyue , Ren Fu
Published: November 2024

Ergothioneine (EGT) is a diet‐derived natural sulfur‐containing amino acid that exhibits strong anti‐oxidant and anti‐inflammation activities. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammatory injury are predominant pro‐fibrogenic factors. Therefore, EGT may have therapeutic potential against liver fibrosis; however, its underlying mechanism is incompletely understood. This study aimed at investigating the protective effects of EGT on liver fibrosis based on metabonomics and network pharmacology. A mouse model of liver fibrosis was established by intraperitoneal injection with 40% CCl4 solution (2 mL/kg, twice a week) and intragastric administration with EGT (5, 10 mg/kg/d) for six weeks. Results showed that EGT improved liver function by reducing serum levels of ALT (alanine aminotransferase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), and TBIL (total bilirubin), and alleviated liver fibrosis by reducing LN (laminin) and HyP (hydroxyproline) levels, decreasing expressions of α‐SMA (α‐smooth muscle actin), Col‐I (collagen type I), and Col‐III (collagen type III), and improving pathological changes. EGT also significantly inhibited CCl4‐induced hepatic inflammation and TGF‐β/Smads signaling pathway. Metabolomics identified six key metabolic pathways, such as purine metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism, and eight key metabolites, such as xanthine, guanine, ATP, phosphatidylcholine, and sphingosine. Network pharmacology analysis showed that IL‐17, cAMP and NF‐κB signaling pathways were potential key mechanisms. Integrated analysis revealed that PLA2G2A might be a potential target of EGT against liver fibrosis. EGT may inhibit the glycerophospholipid metabolism through PLA2G2A to inhibit the TGF‐β/Smads signaling pathway, thereby alleviating fibrosis. The present study indicates that EGT may be considered a valid therapeutic strategy to regress liver fibrosis, and provides novel insights into the pharmacological mechanism of EGT against liver fibrosis.
Melt‐Blown Polypropylene Membrane Modification for Enhanced Hydrophilicity
Authors: Lam M. , Baudoin M. , Mougin B. , Falentin‐Daudré C.
Published: November 2024

Melt‐blown, an environmentally friendly technique, is widely used to create high‐quality non‐woven fabrics by extruding molten polymer resins into interlaced fibers. In the realm of biomedical textiles, its unique microstructure makes it ideal for filtration and wound dressings. Our study focuses on modifying the surfaces of polypropylene melt‐blown membranes. An effective, one‐step, suitable, and reliable method to graft a bioactive polymer, sodium polystyrene sulfonate—PolyNaSS, onto the membranes has been developed. The process involves UV irradiation to initiate direct and progressive growth of NaSS over the surface through radical polymerization. To assess the efficiency of the grafting, techniques like colorimetry, water contact angle measurements, Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used. Outcomes related to the grafting were demonstrated by a change in wettability and quantitatively calculated sulfonate groups. Subsequently, grafted PolyNaSS promoted cell adhesion, as evidenced by improved cell morphology. On grafted membranes, fibroblasts exhibited a stretched shape, while non‐grafted ones showed inactive round shapes. These findings underscore the chemical and biological reactivity of polypropylene materials, opening exciting possibilities for various applications of melt‐blown materials.
“Help! My teacher is racist”: Strategies for broaching race with teachers during school counselor–teacher consultations
Authors: Williams Joseph M. , Cholewa Blaire
Published: November 2024

It is not uncommon to hear students of color refer to a teacher as “racist.” Research suggests that teachers perceive, evaluate, and treat students differently based on race, which students often notice. School counselors, with their consistent interaction with students and teachers, are often well‐positioned to recognize the subtle (or overt) signs of teacher racial bias against students of color. Once bias is identified, school counselors have both an ethical and professional responsibility to intervene. We argue that one way to address teacher bias is by engaging in race‐conscious consultations with teachers. This article provides guidance for school counselors on how to broach racial concerns with teachers during consultations. It also includes sample prompts and scripts to support school counselors in initiating conversations on race. Implications for school counseling practice and research are discussed.
Synthesis and visible light photocatalytic activity of magnetic NH2‐MIL‐53(Fe)/NiFe2O4 photocatalysts
Authors: Li Dongmei , Wan Tao , Wang Xiaomei , Liu Bingjun , Zhao Yang , Xu Hao
Published: November 2024

Metal–organic framework (MOF) has attracted extensive attention in photocatalytic organic pollutants. However, most MOFs still have problems such as low response of visible light, easy recombination of electrons and holes, and complicated separation and recovery process. In this study, a facile approach was proposed to construct magnetic NH2‐MIL‐53(Fe)/NiFe2O4 photocatalyst via solvothermal method. NiFe2O4 nanoparticles with octahedral structure are closely attached onto the surface of tubular such as NH2‐MIL‐53(Fe). NH2‐MIL‐53(Fe)/NiFe2O4 has soft ferromagnetism, good paramagnetism, and magnetic response. After 210 min visible light illumination, photocatalytic efficiency of NH2‐MIL‐53(Fe)/NiFe2O4 reaches 95.71% in the condition of methylene blue (MB) concentration as high as 30 mg/L, which is much higher than that (50.11%) of NH2‐MIL‐53(Fe). After five runs, photocatalytic activity of NH2‐MIL‐53(Fe)/NiFe2O4 only decreases to 90.41%. Consequently, magnetic NH2‐MIL‐53(Fe)/NiFe2O4 photocatalyst has huge potential applications in removing organic dyes by a green and environmentally friendly way due to its high photocatalytic activity, high stability, and easy solid–liquid separation.
Associations of Muscle‐Related Metrics With Respiratory Disease in Chinese Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lan Yongbing , Ke Yalei , Sun Dianjianyi , Pei Pei , Yang Ling , Chen Yiping , Du Huaidong , Lv Silu , Barnard Maxim , Chen Junshi , Chen Zhengming , Lv Jun , Li Liming , Yu Canqing ,   China Kadoorie Biobank Collaborative Group
Published: November 2024

Background

There is limited evidence about the association of muscle mass, strength and quality with respiratory disease, especially in Chinese populations. We aimed to comprehensively examine such associations and identify better metrics with more clinical and public health relevance.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study based on data from the second resurvey of the China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) study in participants with no prevalent respiratory disease or cancer. Arm muscle quality was calculated as the ratio of grip strength to arm muscle mass. Low muscle mass, grip strength and arm muscle quality were defined as the sex‐specific lowest quintiles of corresponding variables. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for respiratory disease.

Results

In total, 17 510 participants aged 38–88 (65.4% women; mean age 57.8 ± 9.6) were enrolled in 2013–2014 and followed up until 31 December 2018. During a median follow‐up of 4.82 years, 1346 participants developed respiratory disease. After adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors and medical histories, the elevated HR of respiratory disease was 1.31 (1.14–1.51) for low grip strength and 1.25 (1.09–1.44) for low arm muscle quality. Grip strength and arm muscle quality exhibited a linearly inverse association between respiratory disease (p = 0.137 and 0.102), with each standard deviation (SD) decrease in grip strength and arm muscle quality associated with a 22% (95% CI: 11%–34%) and 14% (95% CI: 7%–22%) increased risk of respiratory disease. No association was found for low total muscle mass index and low appendicular muscle mass index.

Conclusion

Low grip strength and arm muscle quality are associated with increased risks of respiratory disease, and they are better muscle‐related metrics for identifying adults at high risk of respiratory disease. Chinese adults may need to maintain normal muscle mass, strength and quality to achieve better respiratory health, but this needs to be validated in appropriately designed clinical trials.
Lead Nitrate (Pb(NO3)2) Toxicity Effects on DNA Structure and Histopathological Damage in Gills of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Sharma Ritu , Jindal Rajinder , Jhamb Nikhil , Banaee Mahdi , Faggio Caterina
Published: November 2024

The toxic impact of environmentally relevant nominal sub‐lethal concentration of lead nitrate (23 mg/L) on the gills of Cyprinus carpio after 30 days of exposure was assessed. Structural alterations were analyzed through histopathology, and the DNA damage rate in peripheral erythrocytes was evaluated by alkaline comet assay. A significant deviation in the gill histoarchitecture was observed compared to the control group. Significant changes, including the curling of secondary lamellae, loss of filaments, necrosis, hyperplasia, hypertrophy of cells of primary filament, and vacuolization, were found in the fish exposed to nominal sub‐lethal concentration of lead nitrate. Moreover, the comet assay showed lead nitrate‐induced DNA damage, evidenced by the length of the DNA “tail” in the exposed fish. The findings of this study strongly indicated that lead nitrate, even at sub‐lethal levels, could significantly alter the overall physiology of the fish. This situation could lead to severe ecological consequences.
Constructing ZnO/NiO Nanocomposites as a Photocatalyst and Investigating Photocatalytic Effectiveness for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Hassan Mehdi , Maryum Hillal , Rauf Abdul , Ali Wajahat , Bashir Arslan , Zidan Ammar , Muhammad Ejaz , Jan Muhammad Tariq , Bahadur Ali , Iqbal Shahid , Mahmood Sajid , Alotaibi Mohammed T.
Published: November 2024

The goal of the present work is to create ZnO/NiO nanocomposites (NCs) for the photocatalytic destruction of organic contaminants using the co‐precipitation technique. To investigate physiochemical characteristics, FT‐IR, UV visible spectroscopy, SEM, and XRD were used. The ZnO hexagonal phase and the NiO cubic phase in the ZnO/NiO NCs were verified by the diffraction pattern. NCs were discovered to have larger average crystallite sizes. The bandgap energy calculated from the Tauc plot for the ZnO is 3.02 and 2.74 eV for the ZnO/NiO NC's. SEM analysis revealed the morphological study and particle size was calculated using the histogram technique and found to be 124.5 nm for the ZnO and 49.2 nm for the ZnO/NiO NCs. Photocatalytic degradation in the presence of sunlight showed 72.8% degradation of Methylene blue (MB) for the ZnO and 79.2% for the ZnO/NiO NCs. The increase in the photocatalytic capablity for the NCs is attributed to the synergistic effect between ZnO and NiO which effectively separated charge carriers preventing greater recombination rate. The robustness of ZnO/NiO NCs as a catalyst option was shown by their exceptional performance.
Impact of polypharmacy on clinical outcomes in patients with advanced heart failure undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Ono Yuma , Kondo Hidekazu , Harada Taisuke , Yufu Kunio , Sato Hiroki , Mitarai Kazuki , Yonezu Keisuke , Tawara Katsunori , Akioka Hidefumi , Takahashi Naohiko
Published: November 2024

Background

The prevalence rates of heart failure (HF) and hyperpolypharmacy have increased with the aging population. While a negative impact of hyperpolypharmacy on HF clinical outcomes has already been reported, the effects of hyperpolypharmacy on patients with advanced HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) remain unclear.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated data from 147 patients with advanced HFrEF who underwent CRT between March 2004 and June 2020. Patients were divided into nonpolypharmacy (<5 medications) and polypharmacy (≥5 medications) groups, as well as nonhyperpolypharmacy (<10 medications) and hyperpolypharmacy (≥10 medications) groups.

Results

The mean age of the study population was 70.6 ± 9.7 years, and 90 patients (67.2%) were male. The median number of medications used was 10 (interquartile range: 7–13, range: 2–24); Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that the hyperpolypharmacy group had a significantly worse long‐term survival rate in terms of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; p = 0.004) and all‐cause mortality (p = 0.005). Long‐term survival in terms of MACE and all‐cause mortality was not significantly different between the polypharmacy with cardiovascular medication and nonpolypharmacy with cardiovascular medication groups. By contrast, the polypharmacy with noncardiovascular medication group had a significantly worse long‐term survival rate in terms of MACE (p = 0.006) and all‐cause mortality (p = 0.003) than the nonpolypharmacy with noncardiovascular medication group.

Conclusions

Hyperpolypharmacy was significantly associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with advanced HFrEF who underwent CRT. Noncardiovascular polypharmacy may underlie the harmful effects of hyperpolypharmacy.
Feasibility and efficacy of 50 W ablation with the TactiFlex catheter for the initial pulmonary vein isolation of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuhisa , Tanaka Naomichi , Sasaki Wataru , Naganuma Tsukasa , Narita Masataka , Kawano Daisuke , Mori Hitoshi , Tsutsui Kenta , Ikeda Yoshifumi , Arai Takahide , Nakano Shintaro , Matsumoto Kazuo , Kato Ritsushi
Published: November 2024

Background

A novel contact force (CF) sensing catheter with a mesh‐shaped irrigation tip (TactiFlexTM SE, Abbott), is expected to provide safe and effective radiofrequency ablation. Our previous study revealed that the TactiFlex catheter needs a higher power for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) due to the long tip length. This study aimed to examine the feasibility and safety of a 50 W ablation with the TactiFlex for PVI of atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

A PVI was performed in 100 AF patients using TactiFlex catheters with a 50 W setting, 5‐20 g CF, and 15–20 s ablation time. The primary outcomes included a successful PVI, the incidence of first‐pass isolations (FPIs), the presence of PV conduction gaps, and the incidence of complications.

Results

FPIs were achieved for 82/100 (82%) right pulmonary veins (RPVs) and 87/100 (87%) left PVs (LPVs). Among the unsuccessful RPV FPIs, residual carina potentials were observed in 16/18 cases (89%), PV gaps in 1/18 cases (5.5%), and both carina and PV gaps in 1/18 cases (5.5%). Similarly, among the unsuccessful LPV FPIs, residual carina potentials were observed in 11/13 cases (84.6%), PV gaps in 1/13 cases (7.7%), and both carina and PV gaps in 1/13 cases (7.7%). Periesophageal nerve injury occurred in 1/100 cases (1%), and no cardiac tamponade occurred. The overall AF‐free rate at one‐year was 81.7%.

Conclusions

The 50 W ablation with the TactiFlex demonstrated a high rate of an FPI, low incidence of PV gaps, and proved to be a safe and effective approach for the initial PVI of AF.
Mitochondrial DNA copy number as a mediator of the relationship between insulin resistance and cognitive function in patients with euthymic bipolar disorder
Authors: Tsai Tsung Han , Wu Cheng Ying , Chang Cheng Chen , Lin Ta Tsung , Liu Chin San , Chen Po See
Published: November 2024

Persistent cognitive challenges in bipolar disorder (BD) may be tied to insulin resistance, which crucially affects both metabolism and brain health. Additionally, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number has emerged as an indicator of cognitive performance and response to treatment in BD. However, it remains unclear whether and how this indicator might serve as a bridge between metabolic dysfunction and cognitive capacity. In 68 study participants with euthymic BD, insulin resistance was assessed according to fasting glucose and insulin levels. mtDNA copy number was quantified from leukocytes, and executive function was measured with the Wisconsin card‐sorting test (WCST). Mediation models were applied to explore the statistical relationship between insulin resistance, mtDNA copy number, and executive function. Both linear regression and Poisson distribution approaches with robust bootstrap simulations were used for significance testing. The results indicated that insulin resistance indirectly affects executive function via mtDNA copy number. This mediation relationship was statistically significant for both preservation errors and completion of categories in the WCST, although there were no significant direct effects of insulin resistance on the executive functions. We therefore concluded that insulin resistance is associated with reduced mtDNA copy number in blood, which may negatively impact executive functions in patients with euthymic BD. Further work is warranted to determine if improving metabolic and mitochondrial health may lead to better cognitive outcomes in BD.
Pre‐implementation patient, provider, and administrator perspectives of remote measurement‐based care in a safety net outpatient psychiatry department
Authors: Rosenfeld Lisa C. , Tepper Miriam C. , Leff Stephen H. , Wang Daisy , Zhang Alice , Tian Lia , Huttlin Eileen , Fulwiler Carl , Aldis Rajendra , Wang Philip , Stahr Jennifer , Mulvaney‐Day Norah , Lanca Margaret , Progovac Ana M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Psychiatric measurement‐based care (MBC) can be more effective than usual care, but health systems face implementation challenges. Achieving attitudinal alignment before implementing MBC is critical, yet few studies incorporate perspectives from multiple stakeholders this early in planning. This analysis identifies alignment and themes in pre‐implementation feedback from patients, providers, and administrators regarding a planned MBC implementation in a safety net psychiatry clinic.

Methods

We used interview guides informed by Conceptual Model of Implementation Research to gather qualitative pre‐implementation attitudes about perceived Appropriateness, Acceptability, and Feasibility of an MBC measure (Computerized Adaptive Test—Mental Health; CAT‐MH) from five patients, two providers, and six administrators. We applied rapid qualitative analysis methods to generate actionable feedback for department leadership still planning implementation. [Correction added on 22 January 2025, after first online publication: In the previous sentence, the word ‘general’ was replaced with the word ‘generate’.] We used a multistep process to generate thematic findings with potential relevance for other similar mental health settings.

Results

There was more attitudinal alignment across stakeholder groups regarding MBC's Acceptability and Feasibility than its Appropriateness. All three groups agreed that it was important to contextualize MBC for patients and providers, anticipate MBC's impact on patient–provider relationships, and consider the system's capacity to respond to patient needs unearthed by CAT‐MH before implementation began. Our thematic analysis suggests: (1) Introducing MBC may complicate patient–provider relationships by adding a new and potentially conflicting input for decision making, that is, MBC data, to the more typical inputs of patient report and provider expertise; [Correction added on 22 January 2025, after first online publication: In the previous sentence, the word ‘complicated’ was replaced with the word ‘complicate’.] (2) MBC poses theoretical risks to health equity for safety net patients because of limitations in access to MBC tools themselves and the resources needed to respond to MBC data; and (3) Tension exists between individual‐ and system‐level applications of MBC.

Conclusions

Our analysis highlights shifting treatment dynamics, equity considerations, and tension between individual‐ and population‐level needs that our participants anticipated when planning for MBC implementation in a safety net psychiatry clinic.
Pre‐Treatment Effects on Isothermal Crystallization Behavior of Isotactic Polypropylene
Authors: Furushima Yoshitomo , Toda Akihiko , Nakada Masaru , Konishi Subaru , Shioji Hirotaka , Yoshida Yuki , Ozbulut E. Billur Sevinis , Dinc Mehmet , Keitel Benedikt , Mizaikoff Boris , Ohkura Masatoshi
Published: November 2024

The effects of crystal nuclei or crystallization on the isothermal crystallization behavior of isotactic polypropylene homopolymer are examined using fast scanning calorimetry (FSC) and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (WAXD). During crystalline nucleation below the glass transition temperature as described by Tammann's two‐stage nucleation approach, an increased crystallization rate is observed, regardless of whether the mesophase structures formed in the low‐temperature region or α‐crystals formed in the high‐temperature region. No increase in isothermal crystallization rate is detected following self‐nucleation just above the melting point. Additionally, the influence of the pre‐existing crystals on the subsequent crystallization behavior is investigated by combining crystallization time and temperature profiles, whereby crystallization at high temperatures is followed by slight crystallization at low temperatures, and in reverse order. Surprisingly, it is confirmed that the presence of pre‐existing crystals do not affect the subsequent crystallization rate. The crystallization rate of iPP is influenced only by low‐temperature pre‐annealing that enhances the pre‐nucleation.
Solvent Effects in the Synthesis of Highly Charged Foams of Poly(4‐styrenesulfonate‐co‐glycidylmethacrylate) for Efficient Adsorption of Methylene Blue Enhanced by Aromatic–Aromatic Interactions
Authors: Estrada Mario , Suga Takeo , Moreno‐Villoslada Ignacio
Published: November 2024

Water‐resistant porous solid foams expressing a high amount of benzene sulfonate moieties have been fabricated to enhance the adsorption of cationic aromatic pollutants from wastewaters by aromatic–aromatic interactions. Copolymers of sodium 4‐styrene sulfonate (NaSS) and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) have been obtained and submitted to thermal treatment at 270 °C for 15 min. The influence of the solvent used in the copolymerization step on foamability and foam stability, when formed, has been studied. The use of water as cosolvent with N,N‐dimethyl formamide (DMF) inhibited foam formation. The use of DMF or DMF/dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) = 1:1 as solvents allowed the expansion of copolymers, but the resulting foams are unstable in water, forming hydrogels. However, using DMF/DMSO = 5:1 as solvent, stable water‐resistant foams showing NaSS molar fractions of 43, 57, and 68% are obtained, showing high maximum capacity of 244, 435 and 588 mg g−1 and outstanding pseudo‐second‐order kinetic constants of 1.78, 4.49 and 5.64 g mg−1 min−1 toward adsorption of methylene blue (MB), between 2 and 5 orders‐of‐magnitude higher than referenced adsorbents. This is due to the highly exposed benzene sulfonate active sites / adsorbent mass ratio that induces strong aromatic–aromatic interactions with the cationic aromatic dye.
Red‐shifted and Dramatically Enhanced Fluorescence Emissions from Sodium Alginate‐Polyethyleneimine Polyelectrolyte Complexes
Authors: Shi Yunqi , Zhang Xiaomi , Bai Yunhao , Xie Wendi , Deng Junwen , Wang Huiliang
Published: November 2024

The development of nontraditional luminogens (NTLs) with enhanced and red‐shifted emissions has attracted rapidly increasing attention. Here, a new strategy is provided for preparing NTLs with enhanced and red‐shifted emissions based on polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) formed by an anionic polyelectrolyte sodium alginate (SA) and a cationic polyelectrolyte polyethyleneimine (PEI). The direct blending of SA and PEI leads to enhanced emissions but no red‐shift in emission wavelengths in the solution and dried films. After soaking in HCl solutions (pH≤2.0), SA‐PEI PEC films are obtained. The SA‐PEI PEC wet and dried films show maximum emissions at ≈ 370 and 470 nm as well as a significantly red‐shifted emission at 550 nm. The SA‐PEI PEC dried films maintain high quantum yields under a wide range of excitation wavelengths and the quantum yield is as high as 29.4% under 470 nm excitation. Furthermore, the films emit nearly white fluorescence under the irradiation of 290 or 370 nm UV light. The enhanced and red‐shifted emission is attributed to the formation of the compact luminescent clusters with more extended through‐space conjugation and rigidified conformations through ionic bonding between NH+ groups and COO− groups and the enhanced hydrogen bonding.
Skin‐Compatible Carbopol Electrospun Fiber Membranes with pH‐Dependent Rheological Properties for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Han Daewoo , Horvath Robert , Uner Burcu , Pauletti Giovanni M. , Steckl Andrew J.
Published: November 2024

Properties of pH‐responsive electrospun nanofibers incorporated with biocompatible/degradable Carbopol, commonly used in pharmaceuticals and personal care products, are reported. Sonication of Carbopol dispersions prior to electrospinning leads to uniform incorporation into fibers of the host polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone. The hydration behavior is strongly influenced by pH conditions, forming a viscous network at higher pH. Since Carbopol is more responsive to higher pH, at pH > 6 increasing Carbopol concentration leads to increased uptake volume of buffer solution, faster uptake rate and complete gel formation. The physical spreadability (resulting from a combination of viscoelastic properties and the structural polymer network) of the hydrated fibers is evaluated for multiple Carbopol concentrations and pH conditions. At low starting pH of 4, increasing the Carbopol amount results in slightly increasing viscosity while maintain solution pH. On the other hand, at high starting pH of 8 increasing Carbopol concentrations result in significant reduction in the pH of the buffer solution, which in turn decreases the viscosity of the gel and increases its spreadability. These findings provide guidelines for rational designs of pH responsive Carbopol fibers for various applications, including drug delivery, wound dressing, contraceptive devices, and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.