bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disturbances in Biotin Metabolism in Children Undergoing Long‐Term Anticonvulsant Therapy
Authors: Mock Donald M. , Mock Nell I. , Nelson Richard P. , Lombard Kenneth A.
Published: February 2024

Background:

In subjects undergoing long‐term therapy with carbamazepine and/or phenytoin, reduced plasma concentrations of biotin have been reported. However, the diagnostic value of plasma biotin is unclear, in part because of the presence of significant plasma concentrations of biotin metabolites. Pathologic organic aciduria has also been reported with long‐term anticonvulsant therapy, suggesting biotin deficiency, but no mechanism leading to deficiency has yet been determined.

Methods:

In the current study, we sought to determine whether biotin catabolism was accelerated in children receiving long‐term treatment with certain anticonvulsants and to assess biotin status as judged by urinary excretion of biotin and 3‐hydroxyisovaleric acid, an organic acid that is an indicator of deficiency of a biotin‐dependent enzyme. Seven children treated with carbamazepine and/or phenytoin and six treated with phenobarbital provided untimed urine samples. Sixteen healthy children receiving no anticonvulsants served as controls. Biotin and biotin metabolites were determined by highperformance liquid chromatography/avidin‐binding assay. Urinary excretion of 3‐hydroxyisovaleric acid was determined using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

Results:

Bisnorbiotin excretion was increased significantly in the carbamazepine/phenytoin group and in the phenobarbital group. Biotin sulfoxide excretion was significantly increased in the carbamazepine/phenytoin group but not in the phenobarbital group. 3‐Hydroxyisovaleric acid excretion was increased significantly in the carbamazepine/phenytoin group. However, only one child (carbamazepine/phenytoin group) had a decreased urinary excretion of biotin.

Conclusion:

These data provide evidence that long‐term administration of some anticonvulsants can accelerate biotin catabolism, but the indicators of biotin status conflict.
Peptide Excretion in Celiac Disease
Authors: Reichelt W. H. , Ek J. , Stensrud M. , Reichelt K. L.
Published: February 2024

Background:

In celiac disease, the mucosa in the small intestine is damaged. This study was conducted to determine whether the normal peptide and protein uptake from the gut is increased in patients with celiac disease.

Methods:

The low‐molecular‐weight peptides were measured in urine from children and adults with untreated celiac disease. A reversed‐phase technique was used.

Results:

The excretion of peptides increased compared with that in an age‐ and sex‐matched reference group.

Conclusions:

Celiac patients have hyperpeptiduria. It is possible that some of these peptides are bioactive and may mediate varying systemic effects also found in untreated celiac disease.
Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody Subtypes in Children and Adolescents After Ileal Pouch‐Anal Anastomosis for Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Kaditis Athanasios G. , Perrault Jean , Sandborn William J. , Landers Carol J. , Zinsmeister Alan R. , Targan Stephan R.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies occur frequently in adult patients with chronic pouchitis after colectomy and ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis. The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies and cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody in children and adolescents who undergo colectomy and ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis.

Methods:

Five groups of children and adolescents (age, <20 years) were studied, with the following histories: acute pouchitis and history of ulcerative colitis; chronic pouchitis and history of ulcerative colitis; pouchitis with Crohn's disease features and a history of ulcerative colitis; no pouchitis and a history of ulcerative colitis; and familial adenomatous polyposis, with or without pouchitis. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody levels and titers were detected in postoperative sera by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and positive results were subtyped by indirect immunofluorescence.

Results:

The frequency of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies and cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody in patients with a history of ulcerative colitis were 67% and 15%, compared with a 0% presence in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (p < 0.001). There was no significant correlation between the frequency of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies and ulcerative colitis patient subgroups (patients with and without pouchitis, 66% and 75%). Similarly, there was no significant correlation between the frequency of cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies among ulcerative colitis patient subgroups (patients with and without pouchitis, 19% and 8%). The frequency of cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody in patients with Crohn's disease features (50%), was increased, but this difference was not significant.

Conclusions:

There is a high frequency of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies in children and adolescents who undergo ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis, whether or not they have pouchitis. The frequency of cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody is lower in this patient population. Additional studies will be required to determine whether the presence of cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody is associated with the postoperative development of features of Crohn's disease.
Helicobacter pylori Infection, Gastric Acid Secretion, and Infant Growth
Authors: Dale Anne , Thomas Julian E. , Darboe Momadoe K. , Coward W. Andrew , Harding Marilyn , Weaver Lawrence T.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Helicobacter pylori infection is very common in Gambian infants and children, who are also at risk of chronic diarrhoea and undernutrition. Acute H. pylori infection is associated with depressed gastric acid secretion, and loss of the gastric acid barrier may predispose to enteric infections.

Methods:

In a prospective study a noninvasive test of gastric acid output(measurement of change in urine acid output before and after a feed) was performed on a population of Gambian infants at high risk of H. pylori infection. The 13C urea breath tests was used to measure the prevalence of H. pylori infection and growth was measured by serial anthropometry.

Results:

In 101 infants aged 3 to 12 months, there was a significant relation between H. pylori infection and depressed urine acid output in those aged 6 months, during weaning when growth failure and malnutrition begin. Those infants with sustained H. pylori infection grew less well than those without.

Conclusions:

We speculate that H. pylori, acquired in infancy, could be a“key that opens the door” to enteric infection in childhood, leading to recurrent diarrhoea, malnutrition, and growth failure.
Regulation of Lactase and Sucrase‐Isomaltase Gene Expression in the Duodenum During Childhood
Authors: Van Beers Erik H. , Rings Edmond H. H. M. , Taminiau Jan A. J. M. , Heymans Hugo S. A. , Einerhand Alexandra W. C. , Dekker Jan , Büller Hans A.
Published: February 2024

Background:

In children, lactase and sucrase‐isomaltase are essential intestinal glycohydrolases, and insufficiency of either enzyme causes diarrhea and malnutrition. Little is known about the regulation of lactase and sucrase‐isomaltase expression in the duodenum during childhood. In this study, the mechanisms of regulation of duodenal expression of both enzymes were examined in a study population with ages ranging from 1 to 18 years.

Methods:

Duodenal biopsy specimens from 60 white children were used to analyze tissue morphology and to quantify lactase and sucrase‐isomaltase mRNA and protein.

Results:

Among healthy subjects, high interindividual variability was noted in both mRNA and protein levels for lactase and sucrase‐isomaltase. Lactase mRNA level per subject did not correlate with sucrase‐isomaltase mRNA level and thus appeared independent. Both lactase and sucrase‐isomaltase protein levels correlated significantly with their respective mRNA levels. For each enzyme, a significant inverse correlation was observed between the degree of villus atrophy and mRNA levels. Aging from 1 to 18 years did not result in significant changes in mRNA or protein levels of either enzyme. Immunostaining patterns within the duodenal epithelium for lactase differed from sucrase‐isomaltase in adjacent sections, illustrating independent regulation at the cellular level.

Conclusions:

In the duodenum of white children, lactase and sucrase‐isomaltase seem primarily regulated at the transcriptional level. The expression of each enzyme in the intestinal epithelium is regulated by an independent mechanism. Lactase and sucrase‐isomaltase exhibit stable mRNA and protein levels in healthy children as they grow to adulthood. Mucosal damage affected levels of both enzymes negatively.
Pulmonary Function Correlates in the Prediction of Long‐Term Weight Gain in Cystic Fibrosis Patients with Gastrostomy Tube Feedings
Authors: Walker Sarah A. , Gozal David
Published: February 2024

Background:

Gastrostomy tube feedings have a positive effect on nutritional status and are currently recommended for cystic fibrosis patients who fall below 85% ideal weight for height. However, the impact of pulmonary function at the time of gastrostomy tube placement on long‐term nutritional status has not been ascertained.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated whether nutrition status and/or pulmonary function at gastrostomy tube placement surgery were predictive of subsequent long‐term (⩾2 yrs) weight velocity. We identified 21 cystic fibrosis patients (12 male), ages 5‐18 years at gastrostomy tube insertion. Patients were divideed into two groups according to their weight gain response after 2 years on gastrostomy tube feeding. Responders were defined as having a positive change in weight/age z‐score (ΔWAZpost) at 2 years follow‐up compared to the 2 year period preceding gastrostomy tube insertion(ΔWAZpre). Nonresponders were defined as having a negative WAZpost.

Results:

Responders had significantly better FEV1 at surgery (61 ± 26 [SE] vs. 24 ± 3 %pred.; p < 0.05). In responders,ΔWAZpre was ‐0.37 ± 0.08 and was ‐0.46 ± 0.07 in nonresponders (p‐NS). In contrast, ΔWAZpost was 0.92± 0.11 in responders and ‐0.40 ± 0.07 in nonresponders(p < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant correlation between weight/age z‐score change and pulmonary function was found when FEV1<40% predicted (r = 0.88;p < 0.004) whereas no significant correlation was present when FEV1 ⩾40% predicted.

Conclusions:

We conclude that the long‐term nutritional benefit of gastrostomy tube placement is critically dependent on pre‐surgical pulmonary function. Our findings suggest that gastrostomy tube insertion in malnourished cystic fibrosis patients should be considered an early intervention rather than one of last resort.
Are Intraepithelial Lymphocytes in Celiac Mucosa Responsible for Inducing Programmed Cell Death (Apoptosis) in Enterocytes? Histochemical Demonstration of Perforins in Cytoplasmic Granules of Intraepithelial Lymphocytes
Authors: Shiner Margot , Eran Maya , Freier Serem , Faber Joseph , Branski David
Published: February 2024

Background:

Programmed cell death refers to the genetically determined processes by which cells die in response to physiologic extracellular and intracellular signals, morphologically described as apoptosis. In physiologic and pathologic circumstances this process may involve effector and target cells.

Methods:

To identify serine esterase granules in intraepithelial lymphocytes, fresh‐frozen human small intestine mucosal sections from normal and celiac‐affected mucosa were incubated with substrate‐specific N‐α‐benzyloxy‐carbonyl‐L‐lysine thiobenzyl (BLT) and a chromogen (4 Benzoylamino‐2,5‐diethoxybenzene‐dazonium chloride hemi [zinc chloride] salt as capture agent and were examined by light microscopy.

Results:

Normal mucosa showed an occasional intraepithelial lymphocyte with BLT‐positive intracytoplasmic granules. Some large mononuclear cells of the lamina propria were similarly stained. Many more intraepithelial lymphocytes were BLT‐positive among the surface enterocytes of untreated celiac mucosa. Lamina propria mononuclear cells close to the basal layer of crypt cells also appeared to be increased.

Conclusions:

The histochemical identification of BLT‐positive esters within intraepithelial lymphocytes suggests their involvement in enterocyte death under physiologic conditions. The increased BLT‐positive intraepithelial lymphocytes found in the celiac mucosa may be related to the known increase in cytotoxic intraepithelial lymphocytes in untreated celiac disease.
One‐Week Treatment with Omeprazole, Clarithromycin, and Metronidazole in Children with Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Casswall Thomas H. , Alfvén Gösta , Drapinski Miroslaw , Bergström Mats , Dahlström Karl Anders
Published: February 2024

Background:

The efficacy of a 1‐week “triple therapy” in children with Helicobacter pylori gastritis and recurrent abdominal pain was studied. The effect of treatment was also studied in correlation to recurrent abdominal pain.

Methods:

Thirty‐two children with recurrent abdominal pain were investigated with H. pylori serology, 13C‐urea breath test, and endoscopy. Gastric biopsy specimens were analyzed with a rapid urease test and histopathology. H. pylori‐positive children were treated with omeprazole, clarithromycin, and metronidazole for 7 days. The same treatment was repeated for 2 weeks if a urea breath test produced positive results 1 month after the treatment period. If the test results were still positive after treatment, a second endoscopy was performed with culture.

Results:

Twenty‐eight (87.5%) children were urea breath test‐negative at follow‐up 4 weeks (range, 4‐5) after treatment. Another child became H. pylori‐negative after a second treatment course. Two of the three children who were still positive after the two treatment periods, showed resistance to metronidazole and clarithromycin.

Conclusions:

One‐week therapy with omeprazole, clarithromycin and metronidazole is an effective treatment in children with H. pylori infection. Bacterial resistance to clarithromycin and metronidazole must be monitored if treatment fails.
High Absorption of Fortification Iron From Current Infant Formulas
Authors: Hertrampf Eva , Olivares Manuel , Pizarro Fernando , Walter Tomas
Published: February 2024

Background:

Estimations of iron absorption from infant formulas are based on 20‐year‐old data. Data about iron bioavailability from currently used infant formulas are scarce, considering that during the last decades, formulas have had modifications that could affect iron absorption.

Methods:

Bioavailability of isotopically labeled iron (55Fe and 59Fe) from several infant formulas administered to contraceptive‐using women between the ages of 30 to 50 years was measured. Six infant formulas and one follow‐on formula were compared with a powdered, whole cow's milk, and the results were normalized to an absorption of 40% from a reference dose of iron.

Results:

Iron bioavailability from the infant formulas was consistently higher (19%), contrasting with the low value (4%) of the unmodified cow's milk (p<0.0001). Iron absorption of the follow‐on formula was intermediate (13%). Formulas with 8 mg/l iron and one with 7 mg/l supply approximately 1 mg of absorbed iron, assuming a consumption of 750 ml/day of formula. This amount covers the iron needs of most infants during their period of greatest vulnerability. Formulas containing 12 mg/l iron would allow the absorption of approximately twice the infant iron requirements.

Conclusions:

Current infant formulas have a high iron bioavailability, which is an appealing argument for lowering the level of iron fortification in these products.
Treatment interruption in hypertensive patients during the COVID‐19 pandemic: An interrupted time series analysis using prescription data in Okayama, Japan
Authors: Nakamura Naoko , Mitsuhashi Toshiharu , Matsumoto Naomi , Hayase Shunsaku , Yorifuji Takashi
Published: February 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has impacted healthcare behaviors, leading to fewer pediatric visits in Japan and potentially fewer visits by adult patients. However, existing Japanese studies on treatment interruptions have generally relied on questionnaire‐based methods. In this study, we assessed the impact of the pandemic on antihypertensive treatment interruption using real‐world prescription data.

Methods

We conducted an interrupted time series analysis using the National Health Insurance Database in Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Participants included individuals aged 40–69 years with at least one antihypertensive prescription between 2018 and 2020. Treatment interruption was defined as a 3‐month or longer gap in prescriptions after medication depletion. We used segmented Poisson regression with models unadjusted and adjusted for seasonality and over‐dispersion to assess monthly treatment interruptions before and after Japan's April 2020 emergency.

Results

During the study period, 23.0% of 55,431 participants experienced treatment interruptions. Cyclical fluctuations in interruptions were observed. The crude analysis indicated a 1.2‐fold increase in treatment interruptions following the pandemic; however, the adjusted models showed no significant changes. Even among higher‐risk groups, such as women, younger adults, and those with shorter prescriptions, no significant alterations were observed.

Conclusion

We found no significant impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on antihypertensive treatment interruption in Okayama Prefecture. The less severe outbreak in the area or increased use of telemedicine and extended prescriptions may have contributed to treatment continuity. Further research is needed using a more stable and comprehensive database, broader regional data, and detailed prescription records to validate and extend our findings.
The relationship between psychopathy facets and types of criminal offences
Authors: McCarthy Alora , Fox Bryanna , Verona Edelyn
Published: February 2024

The Psychopathy Checklist—Revised (PCL‐R) is a widely used measurement of psychopathy comprising interpersonal, affective, lifestyle, and antisocial facets representing narrow‐band characteristics associated with the construct. However, there is little research on whether the distinct facets of psychopathy show specialised relationships with different types of criminal offences. The PCL‐R was administered to 138 adults incarcerated at a county jail. Arrests were coded into broad categories (i.e., crimes against persons, property or society), as well as for specific offence types (e.g. burglary, assault) using US crime definitions. Zero‐order correlations and zero‐inflated regression models showed significant relationships between: the lifestyle facet and property and societal crimes, mainly drug offences; the affective facet and crimes against persons; and the antisocial facet with all three major crime categories, as well as burglary, motor vehicle theft, robbery and assault. Overall, these results indicate that the PCL‐R facets offer unique information about specific forms of criminal behaviour.
Synthetization and Functionalization of Natural, Polymer, and Quantum‐Based Carbon Nanodots and Their Application in Biomedicine
Authors: Aseri Vinay , Kumari Poonam , Nagar Varad , Godara Vanisha , Kumar Verma Rohit , Awasthi Garima , Awasthi Kumud Kant , Sankhla Mahipal Singh
Published: February 2024

Carbon nanodots (CNDs) are a developing branch of nanomaterials and nanoscience. This has generated much more interest in the field and class of biomedicine science by way of unique particular properties, such as high stability, great photoluminescence, easy green synthesis, and simple surface modification. Numerous applications, such as bioimaging, biosensing, and treatment, have made use of CNDs. This review describes the most recent developments in CND research and talks about major changes in the understanding of CNDs and their prospects as biomedical tools. The importance of this work lies in the ability of CNDs to overcome many of the limitations associated with traditional materials used in biomedicine, such as toxicity, poor biocompatibility, and limited functionality. Furthermore, the use of CNDs as drug carriers, imaging agents, and sensors has shown great potential in improving the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. The novelty of this work lies in the diversity of approaches used in the synthesis and functionalization of CNDs, and the unique properties of CNDs that make them versatile tools for biomedicine. In particular, the ability to tune the size, shape, and surface chemistry of CNDs allows for the creation of tailored materials with specific biomedical applications. The review also discusses the challenges and future prospects of CNDs in biomedicine, including the need for standardization and optimization of CND synthesis, functionalization, and characterization protocols.
PredictingS. aureusantimicrobial resistance with interpretable genomic space maps
Authors: Pikalyova Karina , Orlov Alexey , Horvath Dragos , Marcou Gilles , Varnek Alexandre
Published: February 2024

Increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a global healthcare threat. To decrease the spread of AMR and associated mortality, methods for rapid selection of optimal antibiotic treatment are urgently needed. Machine learning (ML) models based on genomic data to predict resistant phenotypes can serve as a fast screening tool prior to phenotypic testing. Nonetheless, many existing ML methods lack interpretability. Therefore, we present a methodology for visualization of sequence space and AMR prediction based on the non‐linear dimensionality reduction method – generative topographic mapping (GTM). This approach, applied to AMR data of >5000S. aureusisolates retrieved from the PATRIC database, yielded GTM models with reasonable accuracy for all drugs (balanced accuracy values ≥0.75). The Generative Topographic Maps (GTMs) represent data in the form of illustrative maps of the genomic space and allow for antibiotic‐wise comparison of resistant phenotypes. The maps were also found to be useful for the analysis of genetic determinants responsible for drug resistance. Overall, the GTM‐based methodology is a useful tool for both the illustrative exploration of the genomic sequence space and AMR prediction.
Approximate‐analytical iterative approach to time‐fractional Bloch equation with Mittag–Leffler type kernel
Authors: Akshey  , Singh Twinkle R.
Published: February 2024

The paper aims to analyze the fractional Bloch equation with Caputo and Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (ABC) derivative having a nonsingular kernel. The fixed point theorem is used to prove the existence and uniqueness of the proposed equation. Furthermore, the approximate‐analytical solution of the proposed equation is obtained by Aboodh transform iterative method (ATIM) in the form of a convergent series. The technique (ATIM) combines the new iterative method with the Aboodh transform. The convergence analysis of the approximate solution is discussed using the Cauchy convergence theorem. The validity of the ATIM is shown by numerical simulation and graphs. Also, the preference for nonsingular kernel over singular kernel is shown with the help of tables and graphs. For integer order, the obtained solutions from Caputo and ABC derivative are compared with the exact solutions and published work.
A shift‐splitting Jacobi‐gradient iterative algorithm for solving the matrix equation A𝒱−𝒱‾B=C
Authors: Bayoumi Ahmed M. E.
Published: February 2024

To improve the convergence of the gradient iterative (GI) algorithm and the Jacobi‐gradient iterative (JGI) algorithm [Bayoumi, Appl Math Inf Sci, 2021], a shift‐splitting Jacobi‐gradient iterative (SSJGI) algorithm for solving the matrix equation is presented in this paper, which is based on the splitting of the coefficient matrices. The proposed algorithm converges to the exact solution for any initial value with some conditions. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the SSJGI algorithm and to compare it to the GI algorithm and the JGI algorithm [Bayoumi, Appl Math Inf Sci, 2021], numerical examples are provided.
Electrostatic shielding effects and binding energy shifts and topological phases of bilayer molybdenum chalcogenides
Authors: Tan Yaorui , Bo Maolin
Published: February 2024

By combining binding energy and bond‐charge (BBC) model and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the electrostatic shielding effects and binding energy shifts of bilayer MoS2, MoSe2, and MoTe2 are studied. In this study, the bilayer MoS2, MoSe2, and MoTe2 had bandgaps of 1.38, 1.28, and 1.01 eV, respectively. It is found that electrostatic shielding by electron exchange is the main cause of density fluctuation and determine the bonding state. We found that the edge polarization exactly vanishes after the bulk phase transition, just as we saw the corner‐localized modes disappear in a system with full open boundaries of bilayer MoTe2. Finally, this study establishes a method for calculating the lattice density with Green's function with energy level shift and provides new methods and ideas for the further study of the electrostatic shielding, bond states and topological phases of nanomaterials.
Concise Approach towards Tetramic Acid Derivatives via Ugi Reaction/Dieckmann Cyclization Sequence
Authors: Guranova Natalia , Bakulina Olga , Kantin Grigory , Dar'in Dmitry
Published: February 2024

Tetramic acids exhibit intriguing biological activity and are particularly attractive scaffolds for drug design. In this paper, we present a convenient approach based on the Dieckmann cyclization of Ugi adducts of malonic monoesters to afford a series of medically important polysubstituted tetramic acid derivatives. This simple and versatile method tolerates various substituents in both the amine, aldehyde and isocyanide moieties allowing the use of α‐substituted malonic acid monoesters. Examples of further functionalization of the free methylene group in the synthesized compounds have been presented.
Synthesis of Spiro[imidazole‐4,3′‐pyrrolo[1,2‐a]quinolin]‐ 5‐ones via 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of Quinolinium Ylides with Arylydeneimidazol‐4‐ones
Authors: Molchanova Marina V. , Ikonnikova Viktoria A. , Smirnov Alexander Yu. , Solyev Pavel N. , Baranov Mikhail S. , Mikhaylov Andrey A.
Published: February 2024

Design of spirocyclic scaffolds, which are able for direct interaction with biological targets, is a developing trend in medicinal chemistry. In continuation of the previous work on HIV‐1 inhibitors, a synthetic approach towards spiro[imidazole‐4,3′‐pyrrolo[1,2‐a]quinolin]‐5‐ones via 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of quinolinium ylides with arylydeneimidazol‐4‐ones was outlined. Derivatives with various substitution pattern were prepared in 42–86 % yields. Use of 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol as a solvent is crucial for successful preparation of the derivatives, its role is sought as prolonging lifetime of the cycloadducts.
Artificial Multi‐Stimulus‐Responsive E‐Skin Based on an Ionic Film with a Counter‐Ion Exchange Reagent
Authors: Chen Baozhong , Shen Kangxin , Li Yaping , Huang Bo , Su Huiming , Xu Jintao , Yang Shuai , Zhou Qi , Lan Linfeng , Peng Junbiao , Cao Yong
Published: February 2024

Sensing pressure and temperature are two important functions of human skin that integrate different types of tactile receptors. In this paper, a deformable artificial flexible multi‐stimulus‐responsive sensor is demonstrated that can distinguish mechanical pressure from temperature by measuring the impedance and the electrical phase at the same frequency without signal interference. The electrical phase, which is used for measuring the temperature, is totally independent of the pressure by controlling the surface micro‐shapes and the ion content of the ionic film. By doping the counter‐ion exchange reagent into the ionic liquid before pouring, the upper temperature measuring limit increases from 35 to 50 °C, which is higher than the human body temperature and the ambient temperature on Earth. The sensor shows high sensitivity to pressure (up to 0.495 kPa−1) and a wide temperature sensing range (−10 to 50 °C). A multimodal ion‐electronic skin (IEM‐skin) with an 8 × 8 multi‐stimulus‐responsive sensor array is fabricated and can successfully sense the distribution of temperature and pressure at the same time. Finally, the sensors are used for monitoring the touching motions of a robot‐arm finger controlled by a remote interactive glove and successfully detect the touching states and the temperature changes of different objects.
Political and economic instrumentalisation of science: Towards an extended concept of corruption
Authors: Žažar Krešimir , Roth Steffen
Published: February 2024

Popular perception holds that science has been distorted by the pressure of expectations of economic utility or political desirability. Grounded in Niklas Luhmann's system theory, this paper examines the interplay of the political, economic and scientific subsystem of society to scrutinise the idea that science has been corrupted by economy and politics. To this end, we extend the notion of corruption beyond the common, predominantly legal meaning. As a result, we identify organisations as loci of corruptions that can occur at the interfaces of economy, politics and law as much as at the interfaces of science, education and economy or science, politics and health. We conclude that further conceptual and empirical research on these and similar cases of corruption is a worthy scientific goal.
Learning from artificial intelligence researchers about international business implications
Authors: Ratten Vanessa , Hasan Rakibul , Kumar Deepak , Bustard John , Ojala Arto , Salamzadeh Yashar
Published: February 2024

Artificial intelligence is a dynamic and emerging form of technological innovation that has numerous ramifications for international business managers. The aim of this article is to obtain commentary from researchers about the role artificial intelligence will play in the global arena. This includes asking questions about how it will affect internationalization processes and whether it will lead to more international collaboration. Well‐known researchers provide advice on what international business managers should do in terms of staying competitive but also how they can integrate learning from artificial intelligence into their business operations. Lastly, suggestions for future research regarding the interplay between international business and artificial intelligence are provided.
Forecasting bathing water quality in the UK: A critical review
Authors: Krupska Karolina Urszula , Speight Linda , Robinson James Stephen , Gilbert Adam James , Cloke Hannah
Published: February 2024

Climate change is altering rainfall patterns resulting in increasing variability and intensity of rainfall events worldwide. Increases to short duration, intense rainfall (i.e., convective rainfall), will lead to increases in sewage overflow and run‐off from agricultural land. Such events generate spikes in micro‐organisms from feces and manure, especially Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci, that temporarily end up in bathing waters posing serious health risks to bathers. Forecasting of bathing water quality associated with convective rainfall presents a distinctive forecasting challenge due to high uncertainties associated with predicting the timing, location, and impact of such events. In this article, we review examples of bathing water quality forecasting practices, with a focus on the United Kingdom where convective rainfall in the summer bathing water season is a particular concern, and question whether the current approach is robust in a changing climate. We discuss potential upgrades in bathing water forecasting and identify the main challenges that must be addressed before an improved framework for bathing water forecasting can be achieved. Although developments in meteorological and hydrological short‐range forecasting capabilities are promising, convective rainfall forecasting has significant predictability limits. We suggest taking full advantage of short‐range forecasts to provide sub‐daily bathing water forecasts, focusing on targeted bathing water monitoring regimes to improve model accuracy with the ultimate goal of providing improved information and guidance for beach users.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change

Human Water > Water Governance

Science of Water > Water Quality
Equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies on the biosorption of lead by human metallothionein gene‐cloned bacteria as a novel biosorbent
Authors: Akkurt Şeyma , Uçkun Aysel Alkan , Oğuz Merve , Uçkun Miraç , Kahraman Hüseyin
Published: February 2024

Heavy metals are the main pollutants in water and are an important global problem that threatens human health and ecosystems. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the use of genetically modified bacteria as an eco‐friendly method to solve heavy metal pollution problems. The goal of this study was to generate genetically modified Escherichia coli expressing human metallothioneins (hMT2A and hMT3) and to determine their tolerance, bioaccumulation, and biosorption capacity to lead (Pb2+). Recombinant MT2A and MT3 strains expressing MT were successfully generated. Minimum inhibition concentrations (MIC) of Pb for MT2A and MT3 were found to be 1750 and 2000 mg L−1, respectively. Pb2+ resistance and bioaccumulation capacity of MT3 were higher than MT2A. Therefore, only MT3 biosorbent was used in Pb2+ biosorption, and its efficiency was examined by performing experiments in a batch system. Pb2+ biosorption by MT3 was evaluated in terms of isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics. The results showed that Pb biosorption fits to the Langmuir isotherm model and the pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model, and the reaction is exothermic. The maximum Pb2+ capacity of the biosorbent was 50 mg Pb2+g−1. The potential of MT3 in Pb biosorption was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) analyses. The desorption study showed that the sorbent had up to 74% recovery and could be effectively used four times. These findings imply that this biosorbent can be applied as a promising, precise, and effective means of removing Pb2+ from contaminated waters.

Practitioner Points

In this study, the tolerance levels, bioaccumulation, and biosorption capacities of Pb in aqueous solutions were determined for the first time in recombinant MT2A and MT3 strains in which human MT2A and MT3 genes were cloned.

The biosorbent of MT3, which was determined to be more effective in Pb bioaccumulation, was synthesized and used in Pb biosorption.

The Pb biosorption mechanism of MT3 biosorbent was identified using isotherm modeling, kinetic modeling, and thermodynamic studies.

The maximum Pb removal percentage capacity of the biosorbent was 90%, whereas the maximum biosorption capacity was up to 50 mg Pb2+g−1.

These results indicated that MT3 biosorbent has a higher Pb biosorption capacity than existing recombinant biosorbents. MT3 biosorbent can be used as a promising and effective biosorbent for removing Pb from wastewater.
Interactions between microplastics and Culex sp. larvae in wastewater
Authors: Khedre Azza M. , Ramadan Somaia A. , Ashry Ali , Alaraby Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Microplastics (MPs) are a growing issue because they endanger both aquatic organisms and humans. Studies have indicated that wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are one of the major contributors to MPs in the environment. However, studies on the abundance of MP contamination in WWTPs and its transmission into aquatic organisms are still scarce, especially in Egypt. The goal of this study was to examine the temporal fluctuations in the distribution of MPs in surface water and the dominant macroinvertebrate fauna (Culex sp. larvae) in a fixed wastewater basin in Sohag Governorate, Egypt. The average of MPs in the surface water was 3.01 ± 0.9 particles/L. The results indicated to seasonal variation of MP abundance in the wastewater basin that was significantly higher in winter than in the other seasons. The risk index for polymers (H), pollution load index (PLI), and potential ecological risk index (RI) were used to assess the degree of MP contamination. The basin has moderate H values (<1000) because of the presence of polymers with moderate hazard scores such as polyester (PES), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP). According to the PLI values, surface water is extremely contaminated with MPs (PLI: 88 to 120). The RI values of surface water showed higher ecological risk (level V). MPs in Culex sp. larvae were seasonally changed with an 85% detection rate, and an abundance average of 0.24 ± 0.65 particles/ind, MP concentration in Culex sp. larvae was influenced by the MP characters (shape, color, and polymer). The larvae of Culex sp. showed a greater preference for black and red fibrous polyester (PES) with sizes (<1000 μm) of MPs. These findings suggest that Culex sp. larvae prefer ingesting MPs that resemble their food. It is possible to overestimate Culex sp.'s preference for lower sizes because of their catabolism of MPs. To better understand the preferences of Culex sp. larvae for MPs, further controlled trials should be conducted.

Practitioner Points

Wastewater is highly contaminated with microplastics (MPs) in the different seasons.

First report of detection of the seasonal abundance of MP in Culex sp. larvae.

Culex sp. larvae showed a stronger feeding preference for MPs with specific characteristics.

Smaller size and blue polyester fibers were the dominant characteristics of MPs in wastewater.
The Data Mine model for accessible partnerships in data science
Authors: Betz Margaret A. , Sharples Rebecca L. , Ward Mark Daniel
Published: February 2024

The Data Mine at Purdue University is a pioneering experiential learning community for undergraduate and graduate students of any background to learn data science. The first data‐intensive experience embedded in a large learning community, The Data Mine had nearly 1300 students in academic year (AY) 2022–2023 and nearly 1700 students for AY 2023–2024. The Data Mine embodies data‐infused education, research, and collaboration. Students learn Python, R, SQL, and shell‐scripting, while working on weekly projects within a high‐performance computing (HPC) cluster. In the Corporate Partners cohort, students work on teams of 5–15 students, led by a paid student team leader. Each cohort follows an Agile approach, working on data‐intensive projects provided by industry partners and mentored by company employees. Students develop professional and data skills throughout the academic year, from August through April. Many students return in subsequent years to the program, increasing their tenure with a Corporate Partner. Student teams are inherently interdisciplinary; students from 133 different majors are involved in the program, ranging from new incoming students through PhD level students. These interdisciplinary teams of students bring new perspectives to challenging problems in which data science is a key part of the solution. The interdisciplinary teams foster an environment of synthesis with ideas and solutions. Students come together with different life experiences, different levels of technical skill, but also varying ways they navigate paths to solutions because of the variety of majors represented, resulting in a more creative and robust solution than a traditional data science program.

This article is categorized under:

Applications of Computational Statistics > Education in Computational Statistics
Management of intraoperatively identified small bile duct stones in patients undergoing cholecystectomy
Authors: Bunting David , Adesuyi Abidemi , Findlay John , Pawlak Maciej , Sanders David
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The management of CBDS (common bile duct stones) in patients with co-existing gallbladder stones has been debated. Guidelines recommend patients with CBDS identified on imaging should be offered duct clearance; however, this is based on low-quality evidence. This study aimed to investigate the natural history of small CBDS identified using IOUS (intraoperative ultrasound) in patients undergoing cholecystectomy. This may provide evidence to support a short-term expectant management approach in such patients.

Methods

Patients with CBDS diagnosed on IOUS during cholecystectomy were identified from a database of consecutive patients undergoing surgery. Patients with CBDS identified were divided into small stone (SS, ≤5 mm) and large stone (LS, >5 mm) groups. Intraoperative CBDS management, postoperative investigations, postoperative bile duct clearance, re-admissions, complications, length of stay (LOS) and follow-up are described.

Results

Fifty-nine of 427 patients had CBDS identified on IOUS. In the SS group (n=51), 46 patients underwent short-term expectant management rather than immediate/planned bile duct clearance. Following short-term expectant management, 41/46 patients (89.1%) did not require postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and at >3 year follow-up, none has since presented with residual CBDS. Median LOS was 0 days in the short-term expectant management group and 2 days in the immediate/planned bile duct clearance group, P=0.039.

Conclusions

This study reports the natural history of small CBDS identified on IOUS in patients undergoing cholecystectomy. Such patients were safely treated with short-term expectant management associated with a reduced hospital LOS. This provides rationale for undertaking further research to establish this as a preferred management strategy.
First-line treatment of driver gene-negative metastatic lung adenocarcinoma with malignant pleural effusion: Should chemotherapy be combined with an immune checkpoint inhibitor or bevacizumab?
Authors: Zhao Yuanyuan , Mei Ting , Na Feifei , Tian Xiaoman , Ao Rui , Long Xiangyu , Luo Qiang , Duan Ping , Zhu Jiang , Wang Yongsheng , Huang Meijuan , Liu Yongmei , Gong Youling
Published: February 2024

Patients with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma (MLA) and malignant pleural effusion (MPE) without driver gene mutations have a poor prognosis. None of the standard treatment strategies is recommended for such patients. We retrospectively analyzed the efficacy of the first-line treatment for this specific population: standard platinum-based doublet chemotherapy (CT), CT plus an immune checkpoint inhibitor (CT plus ICI), and CT plus bevacizumab (CT plus Bev). A total of 323 eligible patients were enrolled: CT alone (n = 166), CT plus Bev (n = 72), and CT plus ICI (n = 85). Treatment efficacy assessments were performed every two cycles according to the RECIST guidelines. The endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Kaplan-Meier (K‒M) curves and the log-rank test were used to compare OS and PFS. p < 0.05 was the threshold of significance (statistical software: SPSS). The median follow-up was 11.4 months (range, 2.1–49.6 months). PFS and OS in the CT plus ICI/CT plus Bev cohort were significantly longer than those in the CT group (PFS: 7.8/6.4/3.9 months, p < 0.0001; OS: 16.4/15.6/9.6 months, p < 0.0001, respectively). CT plus Bev had better PFS and OS than CT plus ICI/CT in PD-L1 < 1% patients (PFS: 8.4/5.0/3.8 months, p < 0.0001; OS: 15.6/12.9/9.3 months, p < 0.0001). Among patients with PD-L1 1–49%, CT plus ICI led to a longer PFS and OS (PFS: 8.9/5.8/4.2 months, p = 0.009; OS: 24.2/18.8/11.5 months, p = 0.03). In the cohort with PD-L1 ≥ 50%, CT plus ICI was still the best first-line treatment (PFS: 19.7/13.8/9.6 months, p = 0.033; OS: 27.2/19.6/14.9 months, p = 0.047). In driver gene-negative MLA with MPE, CT plus Bev or ICI better controlled MPE and significantly prolonged survival compared to CT alone. PD-L1 expression (negative/positive) may be a key factor influencing the choice of CT plus Bev or ICI.
Palliative radiotherapy for painful non-bone lesions in patients with advanced cancer: a single center retrospective study
Authors: Shindo Yurika , Koide Yutaro , Nagai Naoya , Kitagawa Tomoki , Aoyama Takahiro , Shimizu Hidetoshi , Hashimoto Shingo , Tachibana Hiroyuki , Kodaira Takeshi , Ishihara Shunichi , Naganawa Shinji
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This retrospective study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of palliative radiotherapy for painful non-bone lesions in patients with advanced cancer.

Materials and methods

We enrolled patients with painful non-bone lesions who underwent conventional palliative radiotherapy between September 2018 and September 2022. The treatment targets included primary tumor lesions, lymph node metastases, non-bone hematogenous metastases, and other lesions. The primary endpoint was the overall pain response rate in evaluable patients, determined based on the International Consensus Pain Response Endpoint criteria. The secondary endpoints included overall survival, pain recurrence, and adverse events.

Results

Of the 420 screened patients, 142 received palliative radiotherapy for painful non-bone lesions, and 112 were evaluable. A pain response was achieved in 67 patients (60%) of the 112 evaluable patients within a median of 1.2 months. Among these patients, 25 exhibited complete response, 42 partial response, 18 indeterminate response, and 27 pain progression. The median survival time was 5.5 months, recorded at a median follow-up of 6.0 months, during which 67 patients died. Multivariate analysis identified poor performance status scores of 2–4, opioid use, and re-irradiation as independent factors associated with a reduced likelihood of achieving a pain response. Pain recurrence occurred in 18 patients over a median of 4.1 months. Seventeen patients had grade 1–2 adverse events, while none experienced grade 3 or higher toxicity.

Conclusion

Palliative radiotherapy can potentially be a safe and well-tolerated modality for managing painful non-bone lesions, with a low rate of adverse events.
Reclaiming the Public
Authors: Dorfman Avihay , Harel Alon
Published: February 2024

Reclaiming the Public defines and defends the intrinsic value of “the public” that resides in our public institutions and the officials that run them. The book argues that public institutions do not simply act for us but instead speak and act in our name; i.e., they represent us. Representation requires that decisions made by public institutions or officials are consistent with the perspectives of citizens. If the decisions satisfy this requirement, these decisions are attributable to citizens, and citizens can be held responsible for them. This theory of political authority accounts for major features of our legal system, such as the non-instrumental grounds for the separation of law-making powers, the non-instrumental value of constitutions, the limits of privatization, the nature and value of public property, and the impermissibility of using artificial intelligence in setting certain policies and making certain decisions.