bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex cesarean section: Surgical approach to reduce the risks of intraoperative complications and postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Nieto‐Calvache Albaro Jose , Ramasauskaite Diana , Palacios‐Jaraquemada Jose Miguel , Hussein Ahmed M. , Jauniaux Eric , Ubom Akaninyene Eseme Bernard , Rivera‐Torres Luisa F. , Nunes Ines , Schlembach Dietmar , Beyeza‐Kashesya Jolly , Wright Alison ,   FIGO Committee on Childbirth and PPH
Published: January 2025

The incidence of cesarean section is dramatically increasing worldwide, whereas the training opportunities for obstetrician/gynecologists to manage complex cesarean section appear to be decreasing. This may be attributed to changing working hours directives and the increasing use of laparoscopy for gynecological surgical procedures, including in gynecological oncology. Various situations can create surgical difficulties during a cesarean section; however, two of the most frequent are complications from previous cesarean (myometrial defects, with or without placental intrusion and peritoneal adhesions) and the high risk of postpartum hemorrhage (uterine overdistension, abnormal placentation, uterine fibroids). Careful surgical dissection, with safe mobilization of the bladder and exposure of the anterior and lateral surfaces of the uterus, are pivotal steps for resolving the technical difficulties inherent in performing a complex cesarean section. We propose a standardized surgical protocol for women at risk of complex cesarean, including the antenatal identification of increased surgical risk, paramedian access to the pelvis, bladder dissection and mobilization, and the selection of a bleeding control strategy, considering uterine anatomy and the arterial pedicles involved in blood loss, which should be tailored to the individual case. We propose preoperative surgical planning to include consideration of the most common situations encountered during a complex cesarean, which facilitates anticipating an appropriate response for common possible scenarios, and can be adapted for low‐, middle‐, and high‐resource settings. This protocol also highlights the importance of self‐evaluation, continuous learning, and improvement activities within surgical teams.
Comparative clinical and incremental cost‐effectiveness analysis of treatments for pelvic inflammatory disease in southern Brazil
Authors: Savaris Michele S. , Xavier Thais V. , Ecco Gabriela , Rhoden Artur C. , Cavazzola Leandro T. , Savaris Ricardo F.
Published: January 2025

Objective

This paper evaluates the accuracy of C‐reactive protein (CRP), leukocyte count, and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) for diagnosing tubo‐ovarian abscess (TOA) and assessing the cost‐effectiveness of different treatment regimens for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), with and without TOA.

Method

A retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 1, 2003, and December 30, 2021, including women aged 13–80 years diagnosed with PID. The analysis focused on the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of different treatment regimens.

Results

C‐reactive protein, leukocyte count, and NLR were found to be statistically significant markers for diagnosing TOA. Out of 907 PID cases, 705 achieved clinical cure with initial treatment. The most cost‐effective treatment for mild PID without TOA was ceftriaxone combined with azithromycin, which was considered less costly and more effective in the cost‐effectiveness analysis. For severe PID with TOA, ampicillin combined with gentamicin and clindamycin was more cost‐effective compared to ampicillin with sulbactam plus doxycycline, given a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of US$213.57 for a 4.2% increase in cure rate.

Conclusion

The study's findings support the use of CRP, leukocyte count, and NLR as diagnostic tools for TOA. Ceftriaxone combined with azithromycin is recommended as the first‐line treatment for mild PID at our institution due to its cost‐effectiveness. For TOA, ampicillin combined with gentamicin and clindamycin is a cost‐effective option if the healthcare system's willingness to pay exceeds US$213.57 for a 4.2% increase in cure rate, contributing valuable insights for PID treatment strategies from a hospital's perspective. The average time of hospital admission for TOA was 3 days. After discharge, patients received oral doxycycline until completing 14 days of treatment.
Does emotional freedom techniques affect premenstrual syndrome? A randomized controlled study
Authors: Özşahin Zeliha , Santur Sinem Güven , Ay Çiğdem Karakayalı , Derya Yeşim Aksoy
Published: January 2025

Objective

The study was conducted to determine the effect of emotional freedom techniques (EFT) on the severity of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Methods

The study was conducted as a randomized controlled trial, with a premenstrual syndrome sample comprising 78 single female students of reproductive age presenting with PMS complaints (40 in the experimental group and 38 in the control group). Students in the experimental group were interviewed individually in the week before their menstrual cycle and received two EFT sessions with a 3‐day interval.

Results

The participants in the experimental group had higher post‐test subjective units of experience (SUE) mean scores (experimental group mean 7.8 ± 1.7; control group mean 0.5 ± 5.7) and lower post‐test PMS total (experimental group mean 76.8 ± 30.1; control group mean 127.4 ± 34.6) and subscale mean scores than the students in the control group, and the difference between the groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). In repeated measures analysis, time‐dependent change showed statistical significance between the groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The EFT was found to be an effective non‐pharmacologic intervention for coping with PMS.
Use and knowledge of the two FIGO systems for nongestational abnormal uterine bleeding in the reproductive years: A multinational survey
Authors: Ruiloba Francisco J. , Murji Ally , Tian Qinjie , Maheux‐Lacroix Sarah , Topcu Goknur , Roy Priyankur , Ubom Akaninyene Eseme , Munro Malcolm G. ,   World Association of Trainees in Obstetrics and Gynecology,   FIGO Committee on Menstrual Disorders and Related Health Impacts
Published: January 2025

Objective

To evaluate the worldwide use of FIGO's two systems for the classification of causes and contributors to nongestational abnormal uterine bleeding in the reproductive years by obstetrics and gynecology professionals worldwide, to identify knowledge gaps, and explore barriers to implementation.

Methods

An electronic survey was developed by members of FIGO's Menstrual Disorders and Related Health Impacts (MDRHI) Committee to assess knowledge of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) and the two FIGO AUB systems among obstetricians and gynecologists. The survey was conducted online from February 28 to June 30, 2023, and comprised demographic questions, educational content inquiries, and a knowledge assessment. Available in English, Spanish, French, and Mandarin, the survey was disseminated through representatives of the World Association of Trainees in Obstetrics and Gynecology (WATOG), as well as through digital platforms and trainee‐focused Facebook groups.

Results

Out of 1317 initial participants from 65 countries, 1114 completed the survey. The highest representation was from China (42.6%), where both trainees and clinicians participated. Participation varied across FIGO regions, with Asia‐Oceania contributing the most (n = 602) and North America the least (n = 62). Most participants were in hospital‐based residency programs (73.9%), graduating around 2012 with 3 years of postgraduate medical education. Nearly 70% reported being familiar with FIGO systems, while over 93% were familiar with PALM‐COEIN. About one‐third reported frequent use of FIGO systems by faculty, except among French‐speaking respondents. Higher composite FIGO systems knowledge scores correlated with familiarity with FIGO AUB systems and PALM COEIN. Language did not significantly affect scores.

Conclusion

FIGO's systems for nongestational AUB are widely used but gaps persist. Targeted strategies focusing on faculty development and research are needed to improve awareness and proficiency. This study highlights the necessity for interventions in medical education to enhance trainees' understanding and utilization of standardized nomenclature.
Low‐Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Delays the Onset of Osteoporosis and Dyslipidemia in Mice With Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
Authors: Deng Juan , Li Junfen , Han Xinbin , Zhou Yiqing , He Sicheng , Xu Jie , Qin Juan , Song Guolin , Xiao Xinfang , Wu Liu , Wang Yan
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The pathogenesis of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) not only affects the ovarian structure and function but also gives rise to complications such as osteoporosis and dyslipidemia. Although low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has been proven effective in treating POI, its impact on the associated complications remains unexplored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of LIPUS irradiation on osteoporosis and dyslipidemia in a mouse model of POI.

Methods

The post‐treatment complications following LIPUS cessation were monitored in POI rats at 30 and 120 days in this trial conducted by us. The secretion of follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) was assessed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at different time points in POI rats. Pathological changes in the liver and femur were observed through HE staining. Blood lipid and bone metabolism indexes were measured via blood biochemical testing. Osteoporosis was evaluated using MicroCT and Masson staining techniques. The expression level of inflammatory factors in bone tissue was detected by Western blot (WB) test.

Results

The serum FSH content showed a significant decrease in the LIPUS group on day 0, day 15, and day 30 (P < .05). On the 30th day following LIPUS treatment, TC, TG, and LDL‐C decreased in the LIPUS group while HDL‐C increased with no statistically significant differences (P > .05); the indexes of femur parameters (BS/TV, BV/TV, Tb.Th, BMD, and TMD) were increased (P > .05). On the 120th day after LIPUS treatment, TC content demonstrated a significant decrease (P < .05), and TG and LDL‐C displayed a downward trend (P > .05) while HDL‐C content increased (P < .05); the femur parameters were significantly reduced (P < .05). The LIPUS group exhibited an increased presence of new fibrillar fibers. Levels of IL‐6 and IL‐1β significantly decreased with LIPUS treatment, whereas osteocalcin (OCN) expression notably increased (P < .05).

Conclusions

The application of LIPUS demonstrates potential in mitigating complications associated with POI in rats through the reduction of FSH secretion levels and inhibition of tissue inflammation, thereby presenting a promising avenue for women with POI to explore more efficacious treatment alternatives.
Influence of Lubrication Viscosity on Dynamic Characteristics of Full‐Ceramic Bearings
Authors: Wang Zhan , Liu Zhenpeng , Wang Zinan , Zhou Peng , Xing Shiyu
Published: January 2025

Full‐ceramic bearings possess numerous exceptional attributes, such as enhanced rigidity and superior resistance to wear. Nevertheless, full‐ceramic bearings consistently encounter elevated temperatures for extended periods of high‐speed operation, which easily affect the processing performance of the equipment. Lubrication viscosity has a significant effect on bearing heat generation, so it is meaningful to approach the effect of lubrication viscosity with respect to the dynamics of full‐ceramic bearings. Full‐ceramic angular contact ball bearings are treated as research objects to analyse their optimal working condition in this article. A coupled fluid–solid simulation model is constructed for analysis of the fluid and solid in the bearing cavity. First, at the conditions of different lubricant viscosity, the oil volume distribution, temperature field distribution in the bearing cavity is analysed. Then, the vibration characteristics of the inner ring is examined by constructing a dynamic model of the inner ring. Meanwhile, temperature and vibration variation of full‐ceramic bearings are verified through experiments under different rotational speeds. The results show that the lubricant volume distribution inside the bearing cavity is nonuniformly distributed, which the lubricant is mainly located in the outer ring groove position. Moreover, elevating the lubricant viscosity within a certain range promotes the enhancement of bearing lubrication properties. The maximum error of the bearing temperature between the simulation results and the experiment is 7.592%. Ultimately, the simulation analysis is validated through experiments, and it provides a theoretical foundation for selecting optimal parameters for the oil–air lubrication of full‐ceramic bearing.
RNA N4‐acetylcytidine modification and its role in health and diseases
Authors: Wang Qiang , Yuan Yixiao , Zhou Qiang , Jia YingDong , Liu Jing , Xiao GuangJun , Li Chunhong , Jiang Xiulin
Published: January 2025

N4‐acetylcytidine (ac4C) modification is a crucial RNA modification widely present in eukaryotic RNA. Previous studies have demonstrated that ac4C plays a pivotal role in viral infections. Despite numerous studies highlighting the strong correlation between ac4C modification and cancer progression, its detailed roles and molecular mechanisms in normal physiological processes and cancer progression remain incompletely understood. This review first outlines the key regulatory enzyme mediating ac4C modification, N‐acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10), including its critical roles in regulating RNA stability, transcriptional efficiency, and translational fidelity. Additionally, it systematically summarizes the essential functions and mechanisms of ac4C modification in normal biological processes, including stem cell fate determination, spermatogenesis and oogenesis, embryonic development, cellular senescence, and bone remodeling. Furthermore, this review delves into the central roles and molecular mechanisms of ac4C modification in regulating malignant proliferation, cell cycle arrest, EMT, drug resistance, cell death, cancer metabolism, and tumor immunotherapy. It also emphasizes the potential of NAT10 as a prognostic biomarker and its therapeutic potential as a target for disease treatment. In summary, this review clarifies the multifaceted roles of ac4C modification in both health and disease and explores NAT10‐targeted therapies with the aim of advancing cancer research and improving patient outcomes.
Reconstruction of Abdominal Defects After Open Abdomen Treatment Using Propeller Flaps of the Superior and Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery System: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Lam Martin C. , Henkel Andreas , Greber Lisa , von Websky Martin W. , Kalff Jörg C. , Walgenbach Klaus J.
Published: January 2025

Open abdomen treatment (OAT) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In cases where primary or delayed fascial closure cannot be achieved, vacuum‐assisted wound closure and mesh‐mediated fascial traction are indicated, which often result in a planned ventral hernia. If secondary skin closure is not feasible, common treatment of granulated abdominal defects involves split‐thickness skin‐grafting or healing by secondary intention leading to significant scarring and sometimes mutilating defects. Late enteroatmospheric fistulae may develop as a result of instable scar tissue or insufficient soft tissue coverage. Perforator propeller flaps have been described for reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the abdomen; however, not for OAT‐induced abdominal defects. We report two complex cases of OAT‐induced abdominal wall defects of 20 × 8 and 22 × 10 cm, which were reconstructed with a propeller flap based on the superior epigastric artery perforator in the first case and the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator in the second case. The flaps were rotated into each of the abdominal defects following the propeller flap concept with primary closure of the donor sites and successful reconstruction of both defects. At 1‐year follow‐up, both patients developed asymptomatic incisional ventral hernias. Secondary‐stage abdominal wall reconstruction was not considered due to satisfaction with the reconstructive result and feared complications. Pedicled perforator flaps designed based on either the superior or deep inferior epigastric artery system are useful reconstructive options for midline abdominal defects without necessity for pedicle lengthening, microsurgical anastomosis, or another donor site beyond the abdomen. In conclusion, soft tissue coverage of OAT‐induced abdominal defects in critically ill patients can be achieved with the presented propeller flaps avoiding poor results of skin grafting or secondary intention healing.
Prediction of real‐time cine‐MR images during MRI‐guided radiotherapy of liver cancer using a GAN–ConvLSTM network
Authors: Jin Guodong , Liu Yuxiang , Wei Ran , Yang Bining , Pang Bo , Chen Xinyuan , Quan Hong , Dai Jianrong , Men Kuo
Published: January 2025

Background

Respiratory motion during radiotherapy (RT) may reduce the therapeutic effect and increase the dose received by organs at risk. This can be addressed by real‐time tracking, where respiration motion prediction is currently required to compensate for system latency in RT systems. Notably, for the prediction of future images in image‐guided adaptive RT systems, the use of deep learning has been considered.

Purpose

This study proposed a modified generative adversarial network (GAN) for predicting cine‐MR images in real time.

Methods

Sagittal cine magnetic resonance (cine‐MR) images of 15 patients with liver cancer who received RT were collected. The image series length of each patient was 300, and each series was divided into training, validation, and test sets. The datasets were further divided using a sliding window size of 10 and a stride of 1. A pix2pix GAN with the generator replaced by convolutional long short‐term memory (ConvLSTM) was proposed herein. A five‐frame cine‐MR image series was inputted into the network, which predicted the next five frames. The proposed network was compared with three advanced networks: ConvLSTM, Eidetic 3D LSTM (E3D–LSTM), and SwinLSTM. Personalized models were trained for each patient. The peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR), structural similarity index measure (SSIM), visual information fidelity (VIF), Pearson correlation coefficient (Pearson corr), and respiratory motion accuracy of the predicted images were used to evaluate the methods.

Results

The proposed network demonstrated optimal performance in the four networks across various indicators. The proposed method provided better SSIM values than ConvLSTM at time steps 1, 2, 3, and 4, and outperformed E3DLSTM at all time steps. In terms of the VIF, the proposed method outperformed E3D–LSTM at all time steps and SwinLSTM at time steps 2, 3, 4, and 5. The proposed method was not significantly different from other methods in terms of Pearson correlation values except that it outperformed E3DLSTM at time step 1. In terms of the Pearson corr, the proposed method consistently achieves better values, especially in the high‐frequency components. Low average landmark tracking errors were provided by the proposed method at time steps 4 and 5 (2.42 ± 0.91 and 2.44 ± 0.96 mm, respectively).

Conclusions

The GAN–ConvLSTM network can generate high‐acutance real‐time cine‐MR images and predict respiratory motion with better accuracy.
Informing Implementation of a National Integrated Clinical Pathway for Low Back Pain in Ireland: A Pre‐Implementation Qualitative Study With General Practitioners
Authors: Murphy Cathriona , French Helen , McCarthy Geraldine , Albers Bianca , Cunningham Caitriona
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Ireland's Health Service Executive is developing a new national integrated low back pain (LBP) pathway spanning primary and secondary care to improve LBP healthcare. Clinical pathways are frequently employed to optimise clinical outcomes and resource use but are challenging to implement. Context‐specific implementation planning, leveraging implementation science and its conceptual frameworks, should inform successful implementation.

Aim

To explore General Practitioner (GP) perceptions of the new LBP pathway, using their on‐the‐ground knowledge to assess barriers and facilitators to implementation with the goal of developing tailored implementation strategies.

Methods

Qualitative data will be collected through semi‐structured one‐to‐one interviews with a purposive sample of GPs. Data analysis will be guided by Framework Analysis with initial open coding followed by mapping to the domains and constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Science and Proctor's implementation outcomes of acceptability, appropriateness and feasibility. Potential implementation strategies will be devised from the identified determinants of implementation.

Conclusion

System‐wide changes and improvements in healthcare are difficult to accomplish. The rationale and design of a pre‐implementation study with key stakeholders is outlined with the view of informing optimal implementation of Ireland's new national integrated LBP pathway in primary care settings.
THE Key Elements of the Exercise Prescription Process in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation in a One‐On‐One Setting. A Delphi Study of Australian Physiotherapy Specialists
Authors: Smith Samantha S. , Snodgrass Suzanne J. , Osmotherly Peter G.
Published: January 2025

Background

Clinical decision making to develop an exercise program and then prescribe that program should be based on the best evidence available. However, little evidence exists to guide the development of an exercise program, determining optimal dosage parameters or for effective prescription techniques to achieve best patient outcomes possible.

Objective

To gain consensus from expert clinical physiotherapists in the field of musculoskeletal rehabilitation on key recommendations for developing and prescribing effective exercise programs in musculoskeletal rehabilitation in a one‐on‐one setting.

Methods

Delphi study method involving three rounds of questionnaires with subsequent rounds developed based upon results of the previous round, aiming to achieve consensus in the final round. The consensus threshold was set at 80% agreement. Participants were physiotherapists considered experts in the field of musculoskeletal rehabilitation as acknowledged by the Australian College of Physiotherapists, being Clinical Fellows of the College in musculoskeletal or sports and exercise physiotherapy.

Results

Thirteen experts completed the three rounds of questionnaires. Most experts reported ‘always’ prescribing exercises to their patients. The expert clinicians agreed that a clinician should blend evidence‐based protocols, clinical experience, and empirical knowledge to develop the exercise program, and then tailor the program further based on individual patient factors. Most experts agreed that it was essential to collaborate with the patient when designing the exercise program.

Conclusion

Future research is needed to determine the effectiveness and necessity of each element of the exercise program in musculoskeletal rehabilitation in a one‐on‐one setting to achieve best patient outcomes possible.
Biotin Mitigates Alcohol Withdrawal‐Induced Anxiety and Depression by Regulating Serotonin Metabolism, BDNF, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress in Rats
Authors: Hossaini Dawood , Alipour Adam Khan , Sajjadi Meysam , Ansari Mustafa , Haidary Murtaza
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Substance use disorders, particularly alcohol use disorders, represent a significant public health problem, with adolescents particularly vulnerable to their adverse effects. This study examined the possible anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of biotin, a crucial vitamin for brain function, in attenuating the behavioral and neurobiological changes associated with alcohol withdrawal in adolescent rats.

Materials and Methods

Sixty male Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to a 20% ethanol solution for 21 days, followed by a 21‐day drug‐free period to assess long‐term behavioral and physiological changes. Behavioral assessments included the Open Field Test, Elevated Plus Maze, and Forced Swimming Test, administered post‐withdrawal to evaluate anxiety and depression behaviors. Additionally, biochemical analyses were performed to measure serotonin levels, monoamine oxidase‐A (MAO‐A) activity, and BDNF concentrations.

Results

The results indicate that ethanol withdrawal significantly induced anxiety‐ and depression‐like behavior in the rats. However, treatment with biotin, particularly at higher doses, effectively attenuated these withdrawal‐related behavioral changes. Mechanistically, biotin administration was found to regulate serotonin levels, monoamine oxidase activity, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, and glial fibrillary acidic protein, and alleviate oxidative stress markers in cortical tissue.

Discussion

The results of this study suggest that biotin may have therapeutic potential for alleviating the negative effects of alcohol withdrawal, particularly those related to anxiety and depression. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and examine the clinical effects of biotin supplementation for individuals undergoing alcohol withdrawal.
From crop to compost: Sonali Bag®—The biopolymer revolutionizing sustainable agriculture
Authors: Aftab Hrithita , Samadder Rajib , Rahman Md. Latifur , Ruhane Tania Akter , Khan Mubarak A.
Published: January 2025

Plastic pollution, particularly in agriculture has reached alarming levels with over 400 million metric tons produced annually. This study evaluates the Sonali Bag® film (cellulose‐based biopolymer derived from jute) as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic films used in agriculture. The film exhibits significant water absorption peaking at 1.45% within the first 10 min, due to its hydrophilic nature making it ideal for moisture retention in soil. Hydrolytic stability tests disclose that Sonali Bag® films degradation rates influenced by environmental conditions such as pH, temperature, and water salinity. At 100°C, the film fully dissolves while at lower temperatures it remains stable. Furthermore, porosity ranges from 83% to 96% depending on film thickness contributing to improved soil aeration and nutrient retention. Biodegradation tests show complete decomposition of the film within 100 days leaving no toxic residue. Thermal analysis (TGA) indicates the film remains stable up to 250°C, and DSC confirms a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 50°C. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses expose strong hydrogen bonding and a smooth porous surface respectively. These properties establish Sonali Bag® as an eco‐friendly, compostable material with potential to significantly reduce agricultural plastic waste while improving soil health and crop productivity.

Highlights

Sonali Bag® a cellulosic sustainable alternative to agricultural plastic film.

Water absorption and biodegradation ensure no microplastic emission.

Hydrolytic stability influenced with salinity, temperature, and pH of water.

Porosity and bulk density enhance soil conditions and nutrient retention.

Structural analyses validate its suitability for various agricultural uses.
Sustainable Layer‐by‐Layer Films Using Chitosan Decorated With Anthocyanins and Carboxylated Graphene Oxide for Food Packaging Applications
Authors: Shen Jiaming , He Wendi , Zheng Yahui , Che Jianfei
Published: January 2025

The abuse of traditional plastic food packaging has caused severe food safety and environmental pollution, urgently necessitating the development of green and sustainable biodegradable packaging materials. Chitosan (CS) belongs to an inexpensive and readily available biopolymer; however, the poor mechanical properties and weak resistance to UV light and water make it unsuitable for the food packaging industry. In this study, a layer‐by‐layer (LBL) assembly of CS decorated with anthocyanins as a polycationic electrolyte and carboxylated graphene oxide (GO‐COOH) as a polyanionic electrolyte is used to fabricate bio‐based films with the aim of improving comprehensive properties of CS‐based films. The results indicate that the LBL assembly extremely enhanced the UV‐blocking ability (the average transmittance in the UV‐B region drops to 1.68%), tensile strength (TS) (53.52 MPa), toughness (71.81%), thermal stability, water resistance, hydrophobicity (the water contact angle is up to 109.5°), and antioxidant activities of the films, attributed to hydrogen bonds among CS, anthocyanins, and GO‐COOH and electrostatic interactions between GO‐COOH and CS along with anthocyanins. In addition, the LBL films show exceptional advantages in the storage application for fresh‐cut apples. In general, the study demonstrates that a novel and sustainable CS‐based film can be fabricated by the LBL technique for food packaging.
Natural Products From Plants Targeting Leptin Resistance for the Future Development of Anti‐Obesity Agents
Authors: Liu Yu , Gong Fengying
Published: January 2025

Obesity is a serious health threat, which has affected 16% of adults globally in 2022 and shows a trend toward youthfulness. Leptin, as a regulator of body weight, can suppress appetite and promote energy expenditure, making it potential in obesity treatment. Nevertheless, with the progress of relevant research, it is worth noting that monotherapy with leptin is not an effective strategy since most obese individuals are hyperleptinemic and resistant to leptin, where high levels of leptin fail to exert its weight‐loss effects. Therefore, the potential to unlock the weight‐loss properties of leptin using pharmacology to improve resistance has provided a new direction for this field. However, most synthetic medicines have retreated from the market due to their undesirable side effects, while natural products are increasingly sought after for drug development due to their minimal side effects. Indeed, natural products are ideal alternatives to oral synthetic agents since a growing body of research has demonstrated their desirable effects on improving leptin resistance through potential therapeutic targets like the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B, the exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP/Ras‐related protein 1 signaling pathway, endoplasmic reticulum stress, pro‐opiomelanocortin gene, and leptin levels. This review outlines natural products that can improve leptin resistance by inhibiting or activating these targets and evaluates their efficacy in experiments and human clinical trials, offering insights for the development of anti‐obesity agents. However, more high‐quality clinical research is necessary to validate these findings, as current clinical evidence is constrained by heterogeneity and small sample sizes.
The human intelligence evolved from proximal cis‐regulatory saltations
Authors: Li Xiaojie , Shi Jianhui , Li Lei M.
Published: January 2025

The divergence rate between the alignable genomes of humans and chimpanzees is as little as 1.23%. Their phenotypical difference was hypothesized to be accounted for by gene regulation. We construct the cis‐regulatory element frequency (CREF) matrix to represent the proximal regulatory sequences for each species. Each CREF matrix is further decomposed into dual eigen‐modules. By comparing the CREF modules of four existing hominid species, we examine their quantitative and qualitative changes along evolution. We identified two saltations: one between the 4th and 5th, the other between the 9th and 10th eigen‐levels. The cognition and intelligence unique to humans are thus found from the saltations at the molecular level. They include long‐term memory, cochlea/inner ear morphogenesis that enables the development of human language/music, social behavior that allows us to live together peacefully and to work collaboratively, and visual/observational/associative learning. Moreover, we found exploratory behavior crucial for humans’ creativity, the GABA‐B receptor activation that protects our neurons, and serotonin biosynthesis/signaling that regulates our happiness. We observed a remarkable increase in the number of motifs present on Alu elements on the 4th/9th motif‐eigenvectors. The cognition and intelligence unique to humans can, by and large, be identified using only the CREF profiles without any a priori. Although gradual evolution might be the only mode in the mutations of protein sequences, the evolution of gene regulation has both gradual and saltational modes, which could be explained by the framework of CREF eigen‐modules.
Organic room temperature phosphorescence co‐crystal with reversible acid/base stimulus response
Authors: Zhang Chenchen , Jiang Xingjia , Wang Can , Liu Zhaoyang , Xu Bin , Tian Wenjing
Published: January 2025

Stimulus‐responsive organic room temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials have received significant attention in bioimaging, sensing, and data storage because of their controllable dynamic variability and rapid response. Organic co‐crystals, with tailor‐designed optical properties through manipulation of their aggregate structures, have proven to be very effective in elucidating the structure‐property relationship of organic RTP materials at the molecular level. Therefore, enhancing RTP through rigid frameworks that promote intersystem crossing is a valid approach. Notably, the realization of organic RTP co‐crystal performance by altering the components or adjusting the crystal lattices is highly appealing; however, this has not been fully addressed. In this study, an organic RTP co‐crystal, 4,4′‐bipyridine (44BD), was employed as the host, and 1,4‐diiodotetrafluorobenzene (DITF) and 4‐bromo‐2,3,5,6‐tetrafluorobenzoic acid (TFBA) were employed as guests. The 44BD‐DITF co‐crystal exhibited an orange RTP, whereas 44BD‐TFBA displayed a bright yellow RTP. Crystal analysis and theoretical calculations revealed that dense molecular packing and abundant intermolecular interactions within these co‐crystals are crucial for the emergence of RTP. Notably, both co‐crystals show a reversible acid/base stimulus response, that is, exposure to hydrochloric acid (HCl) fumes results in quenching of their RTP, which can be subsequently restored by triethylamine (TEA) fumigation. This study presents an effective approach towards reversible RTP switching in organic co‐crystals, thus offering opportunities for the development of acid/base stimulus‐responsive materials for next‐generation applications.
Shaking Table Tests of Underground Substation Considering Soil–Structure–Equipment Interaction
Authors: Zhihao Wang , Jing Lv , Guanglin Pai , Wei Zhang , Longfei Jiao , Peng Liu , Bo Wen , Yongkang Kang , Fan Zhang , Peng Xu
Published: January 2025

To investigate the seismic dynamic response characteristics of underground substations, considering the interaction among soil, structure, and equipment, a model soil field shaking table test with a similarity ratio of 1:25 was conducted. Detailed analysis was conducted on the acceleration amplification factors, Fourier amplitude spectra, and displacements of soil, structure, and equipment during the experimental process. The experimental study revealed the following findings: It was concluded that the seismic excitation had a significant impact on the acceleration response of equipment near the edges of the structure, demonstrating an amplification effect. Both the acceleration amplification factors of the station structure and the site generally decreased with increasing input seismic intensity. As the seismic intensity increased, this decreasing trend gradually weakened. Additionally, the peak values of acceleration Fourier spectra often decrease with increasing burial depth. The examination of the postearthquake model system revealed the presence of surface cracks in the soil, which exhibited varying degrees of severity. These cracks were observed both parallel and perpendicular to the direction of excitation, with a significant concentration of soil fissures occurring directly above the structural elements.
New insights into axion freeze-in
Authors: Jain Mudit , Maggi Angelo , Ai Wen-Yuan , Marsh David J. E.
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Freeze-in via the axion-photon coupling, gϕγ, can produce axions in the early Universe. At low reheating temperatures close to the minimum allowed value Treh ≈ TBBN ≈ 10 MeV, the abundance peaks for axion masses mϕ ≈ Treh. Such heavy axions are unstable and subsequently decay, leading to strong constraints on gϕγ from astrophysics and cosmology. In this work, we revisit the computation of the freeze-in abundance and clarify important issues. We begin with a complete computation of the collision terms for the Primakoff process, electron-positron annihilation, and photon-to-axion (inverse-)decay, while approximately taking into account plasma screening and threshold effects. We then solve the Boltzmann equation for the full axion distribution function. We confirm previous results about the importance of both processes to the effective “relic abundance” (defined as density prior to decay), and provide useful fitting formulae to estimate the freeze-in abundance from the equilibrium interaction rate. For the distribution function, we find an out-of-equilibrium population of axions and introduce an effective temperature for them. We follow the evolution right up until decay, and find that the average axion kinetic energy is larger than a thermal relic by between 20% and 80%, which may have implications for limits on decaying axions from X-ray spectra. We extend our study to a two-axion system with quartic cross-coupling, and find that for typical/expected couplings, freeze-in of a second axion flavour by annihilations leads to a negligibly small contribution to the relic density.
The Ghent Hybrid model in NuWro: a new neutrino single-pion production model in the GeV regime
Authors: Yan Qiyu , Niewczas Kajetan , Nikolakopoulos Alexis , González-Jiménez Raúl , Jachowicz Natalie , Lu Xianguo , Sobczyk Jan , Zheng Yangheng
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Neutrino-induced single-pion production constitutes an essential interaction channel in modern neutrino oscillation experiments, with its products building up a significant fraction of the observable hadronic final states. Frameworks of oscillation analyses strongly rely on Monte Carlo neutrino event generators, which provide theoretical predictions of neutrino interactions on nuclear targets. Thus, it is crucial to integrate state-of-the-art single-pion production models with Monte Carlo simulations to prepare for the upcoming systematics-dominated landscape of neutrino measurements. In this work, we present the implementation of the Ghent Hybrid model for neutrino-induced single-pion production in the NuWro Monte Carlo event generator. The interaction dynamics includes coherently-added contributions from nucleon resonances and a non-resonant background, merged into the pythia branching predictions in the deep-inelastic regime, as instrumented by NuWro. This neutrino-nucleon interaction model is fully incorporated into the nuclear framework of the generator, allowing it to account for the influence of both initial- and final-state nuclear medium effects. We compare the predictions of this integrated implementation with recent pion production data from accelerator-based neutrino experiments. The results of the novel model show improved agreement of the generator predictions with the data and point to the significance of the refined treatment of the description of pion-production processes beyond the ∆ region.
Superconformal anomalies for string defects in six-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = (1, 0) SCFTs
Authors: Apruzzi Fabio , Mekareeya Noppadol , Robinson Brandon , Tomasiello Alessandro
Published: January 2025

Abstract

We study the anomalies of two-dimensional BPS defects in six-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (1, 0) superconformal field theories. Using a holographic description of these defects furnished by probe D4-branes in AdS7 solutions of ten-dimensional type IIA supergravity, we compute the two independent defect Weyl anomalies from the on-shell action for a spherical defect and defect sphere entanglement entropy. We find agreement between the holographic prediction for the defect A-type anomaly coming from the defect sphere free energy and the leading large N contribution to the defect ’t Hooft anomaly found using anomaly inflow. We also find agreement between the holographic computation of the expectation value of a surface operator wrapping a torus and the supersymmetric localization computation for a circular Wilson loop in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 super Yang-Mills theory on "Image missing". Lastly, we holographically compute the defect gravitational anomaly from the Wess-Zumino action of the probe D4-brane, which provides a subleading large N correction to the defect A-type anomaly.
Leptogenesis in realistic flipped SU(5)
Authors: King Stephen F. , Leontaris George K. , Marsili Luca , Zhou Ye-Ling
Published: January 2025

Abstract

We study thermal leptogenesis in realistic supersymmetric flipped SU(5) × U(1) unification. As up-type quarks and neutrinos are arranged in the same multiplets, they exhibit strong correlations, and it is commonly believed that the masses of right-handed (RH) neutrinos are too hierarchical to fit the low-energy neutrino data. This pattern generally predicts a lightest RH neutrino too light to yield successful leptogenesis, with any lepton-antilepton asymmetry generated from heavier neutrinos being washed out unless special flavour structures are assumed. We propose a different scenario in which the lightest two RH neutrinos N1 and N2 have nearby masses of order 109 GeV, with thermal leptogenesis arising non-resonantly from both N1 and N2. We show that this pattern is consistent with all data on fermion masses and mixing and predicts the lightest physical left-handed neutrino mass to be smaller than about 10−7 eV. The Dirac phase, which does not take the maximal CP-violating value, plays an important role in leptogenesis.
Eating disorders among people with and without type 1 diabetes: incidence and treatment in a nationwide population-based cohort
Authors: Hirvelä Leon , Haukka Jari , Keski-Rahkonen Anna , Sipilä Pyry N.
Published: January 2025

Aims/hypothesis

Eating disorders are over-represented in type 1 diabetes and are associated with an increased risk of complications, but it is unclear whether type 1 diabetes affects the treatment of eating disorders. We assessed incidence and treatment of eating disorders in a nationwide sample of individuals with type 1 diabetes and diabetes-free control individuals.

Methods

Our study comprised 11,055 individuals aged <30 who had been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1998–2010, and 11,055 diabetes-free control individuals matched for age, sex and hospital district. We ascertained incidence of eating disorders from hospital records using Poisson regression. Eating disorder treatment was assessed by new prescriptions for psychotropic medications and hospital treatment for eating disorders.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 13.1 years, there were 175 incident cases of eating disorders among individuals with type 1 diabetes and 75 among the control individuals (adjusted incidence rate ratio 2.35; 95% CI 1.80, 3.09). The prescription of psychotropic medications was similar among eating disorder patients with and without type 1 diabetes. However, those with type 1 diabetes received outpatient hospital treatment for their eating disorder less often than those without diabetes (mean 3.32 vs 5.33 outpatient care visits per year [adjusted difference 1.24; 95% CI 0.39, 2.08]).

Conclusions/interpretation

People with type 1 diabetes are more likely to be diagnosed with eating disorders than their diabetes-free peers. However, they receive less outpatient hospital treatment for their eating disorders despite their greater risk for major adverse health outcomes. These findings emphasise the need for targeted eating disorder treatment for people with type 1 diabetes.

Graphical Abstract
Topology optimization of thermoelastic structures with single and functionally graded materials exploring energy and stress-based formulations
Authors: Silva Rui F. , Coelho Pedro G. , Conde Fábio M. , Almeida Cláudia J. , Custódio Ana L.
Published: January 2025

Topology optimization problem formulations have lately included stresses, besides compliance, to ensure mechanical strength feasibility, which is of utmost importance in structural engineering practice. A mechanically induced stress field has often been considered in optimal structural design. However, one realizes that thermal stresses can also greatly influence efficient designs, especially when addressing highly constrained structures. Moreover, stress mitigation has been achieved by enlarging the design domain to multi-material solutions. This motivates to pursue stress-based topology optimization of thermoelastic structures and the extension of the multi-material setting to Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs), with greater potential in stress mitigation. Two optimization problems are investigated: (1) elastic strain energy minimization and (2) maximum von Mises stress minimization. In the former, the single-material problem is revisited, but in the frame of a multi-objective formulation, weighting mechanical and thermal strain energy terms, as they can be decoupled. Insights into thermal stresses allow to propose a well-posed stress-based formulation for the topology optimization thermoelastic problem. In the latter, stress mitigation is sought on account of optimizing the spatial mixture (composition) of two solids amidst prescribed or predicted voids. It is assumed that the RAMP interpolation scheme has the physical meaning of rendering the thermoelastic properties for the continuous variation of composition. Linear thermoelasticity and plane stress benchmarks are used. In the multi-objective energy-based problem, the trade-offs between the conflicting design objectives, in the Pareto sense, are highlighted. Regarding the stress-based problem, lower stress peaks are obtained in FGM solutions, as stresses are more evenly distributed.
Treatment Advances in Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia
Authors: Hartley Iris R. , Roszko Kelly L.
Published: January 2025

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome caused by hypersecretion of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) by typically benign phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors (PMTs). FGF23 excess causes chronic hypophosphatemia through renal phosphate losses and decreased production of 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin-D. TIO presents with symptoms of chronic hypophosphatemia including fatigue, bone pain, weakness, and fractures. Definitive treatment is surgical resection of the PMT with wide margins. Other therapeutic options are necessary when the tumor is unable to be localized, not amenable to complete resection, or when the patient is not a good surgical candidate. Alternative ablative approaches such as radiotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and cryoablation, have been used with variable success and limited follow up. Medical management is warranted both prior to definitive therapy and in non-operable cases to improve symptoms and allow for bone remineralization. Oral phosphate and calcitriol were the mainstay of medical therapy, however, the development of burosumab, a monoclonal blocking antibody to FGF23, has introduced an approved therapy that improves hypophosphatemia and symptoms in patients with TIO. In select cases, cinacalcet can be an effective adjuvant to phosphate and calcitriol. Continued monitoring for tumor growth is necessary while on medical therapy. Infigratinib, a selective FGFR tyrosine-kinase inhibitor targeting a causative tumoral fusion protein, can reverse the biochemical findings of TIO and possibly reduce tumor mass; however, its use is constrained by serious side effects. Overall, innovations in medical and interventional treatments have broadened therapeutic options for patients with PMTs, particularly in cases where a curative surgical resection is not possible.