bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pivotal Contribute of EPR‐Characterized Persistent Free Radicals in the Methylene Blue Removal by a Bamboo‐Based Biochar‐Packed Column Flow System
Authors: Zanardi Filippo , Romei Federica , Junior Mario Nogueira Barbosa , Paciornik Sidnei , Franchi Paola , Lucarini Marco , Turchetti Anna , Poletti Lorenzo , Alfei Silvana , Pandoli Omar Ginoble
Published: July 2024

Water remediation with biomass derivatives has attracted attention for its sustainable impact on the earth. Chemical procedures for new adsorbent and active biomaterials must be implemented to remove organic pollutants more efficiently. Herein, we obtained a sustainable, environmentally, and low‐cost biochar from bamboo Dendrocalamus giganteus (BBC, B400) by thermal treatment at 400 °C without physical and chemical pre‐ and post‐treatments. By electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), we determined the quantification and ageing of persistent free radicals (PFRs, 1016–1019 spins/g) present in BBC over time. We demonstrated the removal efficiency (R %) of B400 against methylene blue (MB) aqueous solutions without and with different concentrations of H2O2 using a novel B400‐packed column‐flow system. Results demonstrated that the MB removal efficiency via physical adsorption and chemical degradation strongly depended on the concentration of carbon‐centred PFRs and their stability over time. Collectively, a reduced concentration of PFRs and their full passivation by proper treatments led to a remarkable loss of MB removal efficiency, thus evidencing that a PFR‐mediated radical degradation mechanism was predominant in the MB removal process. Experiments with t‐butanol alcohol (TBA) on aged B400 as a radical scavenger of the hydroxyl radical (⋅OH) have evidenced the critical role of PFRs in generating reactive oxygens species (ROSs) in solution, which catalysed the oxidative degradation of MB. Kinetics studies carried out on removal efficiency data vs time by all experiments established that the MB removal profiles of fresh B400 were best described by a pseudo‐second order (PSO) kinetic model, thus suggesting that chemical mechanisms such as electron transfer reactions and PFRs‐mediated degradation were the main contributors to MB removal. On the contrary, MB removal profiles of aged B400 with reduced or insignificant content of PFRs best fitted kinetic models, which describe physical absorption and diffusional nor radical processes, which led to a lower removal efficiency. These findings will be helpful for potential pilot and large‐scale experiments to remove a wide range of contaminants in water.
Multiple change‐point detection for regression curves
Authors: Wang Yunlong
Published: July 2024

Nonparametric estimation of a regression curve becomes crucial when the underlying dependence structure between covariates and responses is not explicit. While existing literature has addressed single change‐point estimation for regression curves, the problem of multiple change points remains unresolved. In an effort to bridge this gap, this article introduces a nonparametric estimator for multiple change points by minimizing a penalized weighted sum of squared residuals, presenting consistent results under mild conditions. Additionally, we propose a cross‐validation‐based procedure that possesses the advantage of being tuning‐free. Our simulation results showcase the competitive performance of these new procedures when compared with state‐of‐the‐art methods. As an illustration of their utility, we apply these procedures to a real dataset.
Optimization of photothermal therapy conditions through diffusion analysis based on the initial injection radius of AuNPs
Authors: Kim Donghyuk , Kim Hyunjung
Published: July 2024

Anticancer treatment is performed in various ways, and photothermal therapy (PTT) is gaining traction from a noninvasive treatment perspective. PTT is a treatment technique based on the photothermal effect that kills tumors by increasing their temperature. In this study, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), which are photothermal agents, were used in numerical simulations to determine the PTT effect by considering diffusion induced changes in the distribution area of the AuNPs. The treatment effect was confirmed by varying the initial injection radius of AuNPs represented by the injection volume, the elapsed time after injection of AuNPs, and the laser intensity. The degree of maintenance of the apoptotic temperature band in the tumor was quantitatively analyzed by the apoptotic variable. Ultimately, if the initial injection radius of AuNPs is 0.7 mm or less, the optimal time to start treatment is 240 min after injection, and for 1.0 and 1.2 mm, it is optimal to start treatment when the elapsed time after injection is 90 and 30 min, respectively. This study identified the optimal treatment conditions for dosage of AuNPs and treatment start time in PTT using AuNPs, which will serve as a reference point for future PTT studies.
Successful Application of Tocilizumab in a Patient With Neoadjuvant Immunochemotherapy‐Induced Cytokine Release Syndrome
Authors: Minami Soichiro , Kawashima Yosuke , Munakata Yasuhiko , Matsuno Masahiro , Hara Shuichiro , Yamazaki Yusuke , Doman Tsuyoshi , Saito Shin , Odaka Tetsuo , Ogasawara Takahiro , Shimizu Hisashi , Sugisaka Jun , Aiba Tomoiki , Toi Yukihiro , Yamanda Shinsuke , Kimura Yuichiro , Sugawara Shunichi
Published: July 2024

Background

The expansion of preoperative immunochemotherapy has led to an increase in the number of patients with lung cancer receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Therefore, oncologists should manage a variety of immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). One of the rare, life‐threatening, and recently proposed irAEs is cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Although the standard treatment of irAE is systemic administration of steroids, it has been suggested that tocilizumab may be an effective treatment option for CRS.

Case

This case describes a 69‐year‐old man with stage IIIA lung adenocarcinoma who received chemotherapy and nivolumab, which is an ICI, as neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy. After the first administration, the patient developed severe skin rash, fever, and arthralgia. We suspected irAEs and administered systemic steroids. However, fever and arthralgia did not improve, although the skin rash disappeared. These were also significant challenges for surgery. Noting the elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, we consulted a rheumatologist. Finally, we decided to terminate neoadjuvant therapy after one cycle and administer tocilizumab. Tocilizumab dramatically improved the patient's symptoms and allowed him to undergo radical surgery. Pathological findings revealed that the patient achieved a major pathological response.

Conclusion

This indicates the potential effectiveness of early tocilizumab administration for ICI‐induced CRS, even in mild cases.
Synergistic Regulation of Sodium Metal Deposition Pattern Through Three‐Dimensional Sodiophilic Gradient ZnO/Fe0.7Co0.3 Frameworks and Magnetic Fields for High‐Performance Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Yunfei , Wang Yuanhao , Sun Xiang , Yang Wenhua , Xu Jie , Cao Derang , Li Shandong , Wang Xia
Published: July 2024

The application of sodium metal battery is hampered by the large volume change and uncontrollable top growth of Na metal. Herein, a dual strategy including constructing a three‐dimensional gradient ZnO/Fe0.7Co0.3 (ZFC) framework of decreasing sodiophilic capability from bottom to top, and imposing magnetic fields based on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) effect, is proposed to regulate the sodium deposition/stripping behavior and realize the bottom‐up deposition of Na. Therefore, the ZFC framework under a magnetic field of 200 mT exhibits high electrochemical reversibility with a Coulombic efficiency of 99.77 % at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2. Meanwhile, the ZFC composite anode (ZFC@Na) with the magnetic field of 200 mT delivers a small polarization voltage of approximately10 mV and long cycle life of more than 2500 h at 5 mA cm−2 and 5 mAh cm−2 in symmetric cells, along with good cycle stability in ZFC@Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 full cells (200 cycles at 1 C with a high capacity retention of 98 %). Accordingly, the novel strategy of combining magnetic fields and sodiophilic gradient frameworks provides a perspective to solve the issues of sodium dendrite growth.
Testing “Feeling Fat” as a Mediator of the Longitudinal Relationship Between Negative Emotions and Eating Disorder Behaviors
Authors: Hill Naomi G. , Jo Jenny H. , Forney K. Jean
Published: July 2024

Objective

Negative affect is central to eating disorder maintenance models; identifying mechanisms underlying this link may inform specific treatment targets. The current study evaluated which emotions (i.e., distress, fear, and moral emotions) were most strongly linked to feeling fat and tested feeling fat as a longitudinal mediator of the relationship between these emotions and restricting or binge eating (
https://osf.io/3d5cq/).

Method

Community adults (N = 714, M[SD] age = 41.5[13.7], 84.6% female, 85.9% white) provided data at baseline, 3‐month, and 6‐month follow‐up. Relative weights analysis examined which emotion categories exhibited the strongest longitudinal relationships with feeling fat. Cross‐lagged panel models tested feeling fat as a mediator of the relationship between emotions and eating disorder behaviors.

Results

Distress and moral emotions were the strongest emotional predictors of feeling fat. Feeling fat predicted binge eating (p's < 0.001), but not restricting (p's ≥ 0.832), in random effects cross‐lagged panel models. Feeling fat partially mediated the longitudinal relationship between distress and binge eating (p = 0.044); however, this effect became nonsignificant after adjusting for BMI (p = 0.354). Feeling fat did not mediate relationships between moral emotions and binge eating or between either distress or moral emotions and restricting (p's ≥ 0.638).

Discussion

Feeling fat was associated with binge eating, not restricting, highlighting the importance of specificity in maintenance models. Because the mediating effect of feeling fat was accounted for by body size, factors associated with body size, such as internalized weight stigma, may be more relevant mediators of the relationship between negative emotions and eating disorder behaviors. Future research on feeling fat should adjust for body size.
Variation in near‐surface soil temperature drives plant assemblage differentiation across aspect
Authors: Simpson Elizabeth G. , Fraser Ian , Woolf Hillary , Pearse William D.
Published: July 2024

Quantifying assemblage variation across environmental gradients provides insight into the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms that differentiate assemblages locally within a larger climate regime. We assessed how vascular plant functional composition and diversity varied across microenvironment to identify ecological differences in assemblages in a mountainous fieldsite in northeastern Utah, USA. Then, we looked at how life‐history strategies and information about phylogenetic differences affect the relationship between functional metrics and environment. We found less functionally dispersed assemblages that were shorter and more resource‐conservative on south‐facing slopes where intra‐annual soil temperature was hotter and more variable. In contrast, we found more functionally dispersed assemblages, that were taller and more resource‐acquisitive on north‐facing slopes where intra‐annual temperature was cooler and less variable. Herbaceous and woody perennials drove these trends. Additionally, including information about phylogenetic differences in a dispersion metric indicated that phylogeny accounts for traits we did not measure. At this fieldsite, soil temperature acts as an environmental filter across aspect. If soil temperature increases and becomes more variable, intra‐annually, the function of north‐ versus south‐facing assemblages may be at risk for contrasting reasons. On south‐facing slopes, assemblages may not have the variance in functional diversity needed to respond to more intense, stressful conditions. Conversely, assemblages on north‐facing slopes may not have the resource‐conservative strategies needed to persist if temperatures become hotter and more variable intra‐annually. Given these results, we advocate for the inclusion of aspect differentiation in studies seeking to understand species and assemblage shifts in response to changing climate conditions.
Energy Content, Moisture Content, and Energy Assimilation Efficiency by Birds and Mammals of Oil-Containing Seeds and Implications for Seed Treatment Risk Assessments for Birds and Mammals
Authors: Gutiérrez-Expósito Carlos , Russ Anja , Sainz-Elipe Raquel , Wolf Christian , Kragten Steven
Published: July 2024

Energy content, moisture content, and energy assimilation efficiency are essential parameters in the food intake rate (FIR) and exposure calculations for bird and mammal risk assessments. The updated European Food Safety Authority guidance document on risk assessment for birds and mammals summarizes these parameters for different food items. For seed treatments, values for cereal seeds are proposed as surrogates for other crops. Oil-containing seeds are expected to have a higher energy content than cereal seeds. This would result in lower FIR and, thus, exposure from consuming such seeds. To be able to calculate reliable exposure values for risk-assessment purposes, we conducted a systematic literature review to collect information on these three parameters for oil-containing seeds (sunflower, oilseed rape, soybean, peanut, sesame, safflower, linseed [flax], white mustard, and castor bean). The search yielded 401 papers, of which 151 contained values for at least one of the parameters of the crops in focus. The overall average energy content value of oil-containing seeds was 24.25 kJ/g (n = 124, SD = 3.00), whereas that for moisture content was 6.57% (n = 296, SD = 1.15). Energy assimilation values were only available for peanut, oilseed rape, soy, linseed, and sunflower for a limited number of bird and mammal species. Mean energy assimilation efficiency for mammals was 82.69% (n = 4, SD = 1.55), whereas values for birds were 57.54% (n = 2, SD = 6.77) for Galliformes and 79.25% (n = 2, SD = 1.82) for Passeriformes. The values presented can be used to calculate appropriate FIR values for future bird and mammal risk assessments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2080–2085. © 2024 The Author(s). Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Risk factors for postpartum urinary retention: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Li , Chen Qin , Li Hongyu , Yi Shuhua
Published: July 2024

Background

There are conflicting reports on the factors that increase the likelihood of postpartum urinary retention (PUR).

Objectives

We completed an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis to identify the risk factors for PUR.

Search Strategy

An exhaustive search of the literature was undertaken using multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and Embase to identify pertinent studies published up until November 4, 2023.

Selection Criteria

Observational studies that provided outcomes to calculate the risk factors for PUR were included.

Data Collection and Analysis

Two investigators separately performed the extraction of pertinent data from the articles. The risk factors for PUR were identified by pooling adjusted and unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity test, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias assessment were performed.

Main Results

This meta‐analysis included 21 studies with a total of 36 951 participants. Meta‐analysis was performed for 14 risk factors, and eight of these were statistically significant. The risk factors that were identified in this review included instrumental delivery (OR, 2.96 [95% CI, 1.82–4.80]; 95% prediction interval [PI], 0.67–12.98), relatively long duration of labor (OR, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.02–1.06]; 95% PI, 1.00–1.08), episiotomy (OR, 1.56 [95% CI, 1.19–2.06] 95% PI, 0.64–3.83), nulliparity (OR, 1.55 [95% CI, 1.30–1.84]; 95% PI, 0.94–2.77), epidural analgesia (OR, 2.99 [95% CI, 1.78–5.03]; 95% PI, 0.53–16.76), labor augmentation (OR, 2.21 [95% CI, 1.49–3.28]; 95% PI, 0.12–39.26), labor induction (OR, 1.73 [95% CI, 1.12–2.66]; 95% PI, 0.40–7.39), and perineal injury (OR, 2.75 [95% CI, 1.95–3.89]; 95% PI, 1.10–6.92).

Conclusion

Instrumental delivery, extended labor duration, episiotomy, nulliparity, epidural analgesia, labor augmentation/induction, and perineal injury are significant risk factors for PUR. The findings could help physicians identify patients at risk in the postpartum setting.
Reverse takotsubo induced cardiogenic shock in the peripartum period: A case report and literature review
Authors: Gregory James , Uzuner Cansu
Published: July 2024

Reverse takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a rare variant of a rare disease characterized by basal ballooning and dysfunction of the left ventricle. While it can render patients profoundly unwell and reliant on intensivist care, it is a transient phenomenon, with the worst symptoms subsiding after 2–3 days. At term, a young woman spontaneously entered labor prior to a planned repeat cesarean section. After experiencing physical and psychological distress during labor and a vacuum extraction, she developed cardiogenic shock from reverse takotsubo cardiomyopathy, quickly diagnosed with transthoracic echocardiogram. She required 2 days of intensive care support and made an excellent recovery. This very rare condition should be considered in systemically unwell women in the peripartum as it can be quickly diagnosed, providing patients with the best appropriate care.
COX‐2/PTGS2‐targeted herbal‐derived oligonucleotide drug HQi‐sRNA‐2 was effective in spontaneous mouse lung cancer model
Authors: Lin Yexuan , Sun Na , Liu Dengyuan , Yang Xinmeng , Dong Yixin , Jiang Chengyu
Published: July 2024

In 2020, the number of deaths caused by lung cancer worldwide reached 1,796,144, making it the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths. Cyclooxygenase‐2/prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2 (COX‐2/PTGS2) is overexpressed in lung cancer, which promotes tumor proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and resistance to apoptosis. Here, we report that the oligonucleotide drug HQi‐sRNA‐2 from Traditional Chinese Medicine Huangqin targeting COX‐2/PTGS2 significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion and induced apoptosis in the human lung cancer cell line NCI‐H460. Oral delivery of HQi‐sRNA‐2 bencaosomes prolonged survival, reduced tumor burden, and maintained weight in a spontaneous mouse lung cancer model. Compared with paclitaxel, HQi‐sRNA‐2 may be less toxic and have approximately equal efficacy in reducing tumor burden. Our previous studies reported that herbal small RNAs (sRNAs) are functional medical components. Our data suggest that sphingosine (d18:1)‐HQi‐sRNA‐2 bencaosomes, targeting COX‐2/PTGS2 and downregulating the PI3K and AKT signaling pathways, may provide novel therapeutics for lung cancer.
Beiträge zur Taxonomie von Maytenus loeseneri Urban und M. revoluta Alain (Celastraceae)
Authors: Mory Birgit
Published: July 2024

Blattmorphologische und anatomische Untersuchungen an Maytenus revoluta und M. loeseneri aus dem Nordosten Cubas erbrachten weitere Differenzierungsmerkmale und führten zur Abgrenzung neuer infraspezifischer Sippen: M. loeseneri var. rotundifolia Mory var. nov., M. revoluta var. jaucoensis Mory var. nov., M. revoluta ssp. bissei Mory ssp. nov., M. revoluta ssp. niaerophylla Mory ssp. nov.
Cell dehydration enables massive production of engineered membrane vesicles with therapeutic functions
Authors: Liu Jie , Shen Tingting , Zhang Yu , Wei Xiaojian , Bao Yuting , Ai Rui , Gan Shaoju , Wang Dachi , Lai Xin , Zhao Libo , Zhou Wei , Fang Xiaohong
Published: July 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as promising biomaterials for the treatment of different disease. However, only handful types of EVs with clinical transformation potential have been reported to date, and their preparation on a large scale under biosafety‐controlled conditions is limited. In this study, we characterize a novel type of EV with promising clinical application potential: dehydration‐induced extracellular vesicles (DIMVs). DIMV is a type of micron‐diameter cell vesicle that contains more bioactive molecules, such as proteins and RNA, but not DNA, than previously reported cell vesicles. The preparation of DIMV is extraordinarily straightforward, which possesses a high level of biosafety, and the protein utilization ratio is roughly 600 times greater than that of naturally secreted EVs. Additional experiments demonstrate the viability of pre‐ or post‐isolation DIMV modification, including gene editing, nucleic acid encapsulation or surface anchoring, size adjustment. Finally, on animal models, we directly show the biosafety and immunogenicity of DIMV, and investigate its potential application as tumour vaccine or drug carrier in cancer treatment.
Risk factors for clinical relapse in patients with ulcerative colitis who are in clinical remission but with endoscopic activity
Authors: Horio Ryosuke , Kato Jun , Ohta Yuki , Taida Takashi , Saito Keiko , Iwasaki Miyuki , Ozeki Yusuke , Koshibu Yushi , Shu Nobuaki , Furuya Makoto , Oyama Yuhei , Nakazawa Hayato , Mamiya Yukiyo , Goto Chihiro , Takahashi Satsuki , Kurosugi Akane , Sonoda Michiko , Kaneko Tatsuya , Akizue Naoki , Okimoto Kenichiro , Matsumura Tomoaki , Kato Naoya
Published: July 2024

Background and Aim

The treatment strategy for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) in clinical remission who have not achieved mucosal healing is unclear. This study aimed to determine the risk factors of relapse in patients in clinical remission with endoscopic activity.

Methods

This retrospective, single‐center study included patients with UC who underwent colonoscopy (CS) and were in clinical remission with endoscopic activity. Characteristics were compared between patients who relapsed within 2 years after CS and those who did not. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify risk factors contributing to clinical relapse. Recent worsening in bowel symptoms was defined as increase in bowel frequency and/or increase in abdominal pain within approximately 1 month based on the descriptions in the medical charts.

Results

This study regarded 142 patients in clinical remission with an endoscopic activity of Mayo endoscopic subscore (MES) of ≥1 as eligible, and 33 (23%) patients relapsed during the observation period. Recent worsening of bowel symptoms was a significant risk factor for clinical relapse (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.34–6.84). This was particularly evident in patients with MES of 2 (HR: 5.16, 95% CI: 1.48–18.04), whereas no risk factors were identified in patients with MES of 1. The presence or absence of therapeutic intervention just after CS did not significantly affect clinical relapse.

Conclusion

Recent worsening in bowel symptoms was a significant risk factor for clinical relapse in patients with UC who were in clinical remission with endoscopic activity.
Optimized production and properties of biosurfactant from Bacillus invictaeUCP1617 and its performance in a detergent formulation for environmental applications
Authors: Barata Maria Inez C. , Cavalcanti Matheus Henrique C. , Rufino Raquel D. , de Almeida Fabíola Carolina G. , Sarubbo Leonie A.
Published: July 2024

This work describes the production of a novel biosurfactant produced by the bacterium Bacillus invictae UCP1617 cultivated using an alternative substrate and its use in the formulation of an eco‐friendly detergent. A factorial design was used to optimize agitation, temperature, and inoculum size in a mineral medium containing 1.5% corn steep liquor in 100‐mL shake flasks. The best conditions (175 rpm, 28°C, and 4% inoculum) were used to scale up biosurfactant production in a 50‐L bioreactor. Surface tension of the fermentation medium decreased from 69.5 to 30.2 mN/m within 72 h. The biosurfactant exhibited a critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 0.900 ± 0.08 g/L. The biosurfactant formed stable oil‐in‐water emulsions of motor oil and petroleum, achieving emulsification indices of 90.80% and 99.00%, respectively. An eco‐friendly detergent was formed that included biosurfactant at several different concentrations, 0.2 (wt) % hydroxyethyl cellulose and 0.2% potassium sorbate. The detergent remained stable under extreme conditions of pH, temperature, and salinity when stored for 90 days. The detergent was nontoxic to cabbage, cherry tomato plants, and the microcrustacean Artemia salina. A detergent formulation containing biosurfactant at the CMC completely dispersed motor oil in seawater at a 1:1 surfactant/oil (vol/vol) ratio and removed 99.21% of motor oil (20 mL) contained in 60 g of clayey soil. The detergent removed 98.42% of the oil adhered to a glass surface and removed 75.00% of motor oil adsorbed to a porous surface. The application of this biosurfactant as an environmentally friendly additive for remediation processes is feasible.
Use of 3D Anorectal Ultrasonography in the Preoperative Assessment of Complex Anal Fistulas and Patterns of Healing, Failure, and Recurrence After Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT)
Authors: Murad‐Regadas Sthela M. , Regadas Francisco Sergio P. , Regadas Filho Francisco Sergio P. , Nogueira Felipe R. , Holanda Erico de C. , Dias Mont'Alverne Ricardo E. , da Cunha Carlos Magno Queiroz , Ferreira David G.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To use three‐dimensional anorectal ultrasonography (3D‐US) to evaluate the outcome of ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) in patients with crypto‐glandular transsphincteric fistula and describing the patterns of healing, failure, and recurrence rate.

Methods

After classifying the fistula and determining the length of the sphincter muscle to be transected, the patients were submitted to LIFT. The accuracy of pre‐ and postoperative 3D‐US with 360° endoprobe (16 MHz) with automatic scanning and clinical findings was evaluated against surgical findings. Three outcomes were considered: healing, failure (persistent anal fistula through the original external opening or intersphincteric), and recurrence (reappearance of the anal fistula).

Results

Sixty‐three patients of both sexes were evaluated. The 3D‐US assessment revealed primary healing in 50 (79.3%) patients, although in 6 (9.5%) cases healing was delayed and the cavity was without communication with the anal canal. The procedure failed in 9 (15.9%) and fistula recurred in 4 (6.3%), all of whom underwent a second surgery based on a new 3D‐US, resulting in a 92.3% (12/13) healing rate on 3D‐US.

Conclusions

A 3D‐US was found to be useful in the preoperative assessment of fistulas by quantifying the percentage of muscle to be transected, and in the postoperative assessment by identifying healing, types of failure, and recurrence. The 3D‐US was accurate and consistent with surgical findings.
A better understanding of basic science may help our management of LUTS/LUTD in older persons with nocturnal polyuria and nocturia: ICI‐RS 2024
Authors: Kanai Anthony , Everaert Karel , Apostolidis Apostolos , Fry Christopher , Tyagi Pradeep , Van Huele Andries , Vahabi Bahareh , Bower Wendy , Wein Alan , Abrams Paul
Published: July 2024

Aims

To discuss the role of autocrine/paracrine signaling of urothelial arginine vasopressin (AVP) on mammalian bladder capacities and micturition thresholds, impact of distension on water/urea reabsorption from the bladder, review of the literature to better characterize the central/peripheral effects of AVP, desmopressin (dAVP) toxicity, and urine biomarkers of nocturia.

Methods

This review summarizes discussions during an International Consultation on Incontinence‐Research Society 2024 think tank with respect to the role of urothelial AVP in aged individuals with nocturnal polyuria, impact of solute and water reabsorption by the bladder on uninterrupted sleep, central effects of AVP, pharmacological basis of dAVP toxicity, and biomarkers in nocturia/lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) with neurological diseases.

Results

Consensus recognized AVP function and pathways in the central nervous system (CNS), pre‐proAVP localized using immunohistochemistry in bladder sections from adult/aged noncancerous human punch biopsies and rodent bladder sections is likely to accelerate the systemic uptake of water and urea from the bladder of anesthetized mice instilled with 3H‐water and 14C‐urea. Mechanisms for charged and uncharged solutes and water transport across the bladder, mechanism of dAVP toxicity, and utility of urine biomarkers in those with neurological diseases/nocturia were determined from literature reviews.

Conclusion

Pre‐proAVP is present in human/rodent bladders and may be involved in water reabsorption from bladder that prevents the sensation of fullness for uninterrupted sleep in healthy adults. The mechanism of action of AVP in the CNS was discussed, as was electrolyte/water transport across the bladder, the basis for dAVP toxicity, and feasibility of urine biomarkers to identify nocturia/LUTD with neurological diseases.
Considerations for event‐related gamma‐aminobutyric acid functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Mullins Paul G.
Published: July 2024

The use of sequential proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to follow glutamate and gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) changes during functional task‐based paradigms, functional MRS (fMRS), has increased. This technique has been used to investigate GABA dynamics during both sensory and behavioural tasks, usually with long ‘block design’ paradigms. Recently, there has been an increase in interest in the use of short stimuli and ‘event‐related’ tasks. While changes in glutamate can be readily followed by collecting multiple individual transients (or shots), measurement of GABA, especially at 3 T, is usually performed using editing techniques like Mescher–Garwood point‐resolved spectroscopy (MEGA‐PRESS), which by its nature is a dual shot approach. This poses problems when considering an event‐related experiment, where it is unclear when GABA may change, or how this may affect the individual subspectra of the MEGA‐PRESS acquisition. To address this issue, MEGA‐PRESS data were simulated to reflect the effect of a transient change in GABA concentration due to a short event‐related stimulus. The change in GABA was simulated for both the ON and OFF subspectra, and the effect of three different conditions (increase only during ON acquisition, increase during OFF acquisition and increase across both) on the corresponding edited GABA spectrum was modelled. Results show that a transient increase in GABA that only occurs during the ON subspectral acquisition, while not changing the results much from when GABA is changed across both conditions, will give a much larger change in the edited GABA spectrum than a transient increase that occurs only during the OFF subspectral acquisition. These results suggest that researchers should think carefully about the design of any event‐related fMRS studies using MEGA‐PRESS, as well as the analysis of other functional paradigms where transient changes in GABA may be expected. Experimental design considerations are therefore discussed, and suggestions are made.
Survey of nutrition screening practices in pediatric hospitals across the United States
Authors: Rudie Coral , Persaud Sabrina , Hron Bridget M. , Raymond Michelle , Huh Susanna Y.
Published: July 2024

Background

Nutrition screening on admission is critically important to systematically identify patients with undernutrition given the known relationship with deleterious clinical outcomes. Limited data exist regarding optimal processes and criteria for pediatric nutrition screening. Therefore, we sought to characterize nutrition screening practices in pediatric hospitals.

Methods

A total of 365 inpatient pediatric hospitals in the United States were identified, eligible, and contacted. Eligible hospitals included general pediatric hospitals, adult hospitals with pediatric units, and specialty pediatric hospitals. One respondent at each eligible hospital was asked to complete a 33‐question survey of admission nutrition screening practices.

Results

Of 268 survey respondents, 37% represented pediatric units in adult hospitals, 35% general pediatric hospitals, and 28% pediatric specialty or psychiatric hospitals. A total of 98.5% endorsed the existence of a screening process on admission. Anthropometrics (eg, body mass index z score, 84%) and nutrition status (eg, change in intake, 67%) were the most common screening criteria applied. A nutrition screening instrument was used in 37% of institutions, and only 31% of institutions reported using pediatric‐specific screening instruments. Pediatric units within adult hospitals were 1.38 times more likely to use a screening instrument validated in any population. Barriers to nutrition screening included the lack of a standard screening procedure and insufficient staff to conduct screening. Fifty‐four percent of respondents reported a desire to change their hospital's nutrition screening process.

Conclusion

Most pediatric hospitals screen for nutrition risk on admission. However, methods and criteria varied widely across pediatric hospitals, highlighting the importance of standardized best practices.
Meniere's Disease and Statins: Is There an Association? A Single Institution Study
Authors: Bulbul Mustafa G. , Wanstreet Tyler , Kais Amani , Jones Garrett H. , Kellermeyer Brian M.
Published: July 2024

Meniere's disease (MD) is a complex inner ear disease related to endolymphatic hydrops and with multiple other etiologies suggested including autoimmunity and vascular insufficiency. Statins are lipid‐lowering medications with additional effects including reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation. We performed a cross‐sectional study comparing patients with MD on statins to those not on statins to see if there is any difference in disease activity (major vertigo spells) and hearing stage utilizing linear and logistic regression. Our analysis showed no difference in the average number of major vertigo spells per month (β = .07, P = .9) between statin users and nonusers; however, statin users were found to have lower odds of worse hearing (odds ratio = 0.46, P = .047). Further studies are needed to confirm our results.
From cash to conservation: Which wildlife species appear on banknotes?
Authors: Newbery Beaudee , Morrison Clare , Castley J. Guy
Published: July 2024

The use of wildlife imagery in society is highly varied and could contribute to reinforcing national identity. Standard depictions of wildlife include photographs, video, artwork and symbols or icons, including on currency.

We investigated the representation of native fauna on 4541 banknotes from 207 countries between 1980 and 2017, to identify geographic hotspots and taxonomic patterns and determine whether threatened and endemic species were more readily represented.

Native fauna was depicted on 15.2% of banknotes reviewed (352 unique species) with a strong bias towards terrestrial species (89%) and a dominance of bird and mammal species (83% combined). African banknotes had the highest mammal representation while birds were favoured in South America. Globally, threatened species were commonly depicted on banknotes with 30% of all imagery representing these species.

The fauna species depicted on banknotes generally perpetuate existing perceptions about these species (i.e., charismatic species). We recommend several avenues for further investigation to explore relationships between perceived value and wildlife representation. These include longitudinal studies of how representation changes over time, the inclusion of flora and/or coin imagery, identifying species‐specific traits for selected wildlife and examining the decision‐making processes governing wildlife imagery on banknotes.

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The influence of sizing treatment on the mechanical and morphological properties of carbon fiber reinforced polyphenylene sulfide composites
Authors: Liu Junjie , Peng Xionghou , Liu Qi , Chen Yang , Zhou Shengtai , Liang Mei , Zou Huawei
Published: July 2024

Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTPs) demonstrate promising applications in engineering sectors, and the interfacial interaction between CFs and the matrix plays a significant role in determining the properties of CFRPs. This work attempted to study the influence of sizing agent on the properties of polyphenylene sulfide/CF (PPS/CF) composites with an aim to fabricate PPS/CF composites with enhanced mechanical properties. The results showed that the use of 2 wt% boron phenolic resin as the sizing agent favored the formation of a uniform interfacial layer on the surface of CFs. Contact angle tests revealed that corresponding sized CFs exhibited the smallest contact angle and the highest surface energy among the studied systems. As a result, the sizing agents acted as a protective layer for CFs during melt processing process, which mitigated the damage to the CFs. The average length of CFs was longer after melt extrusion process which was vital for achieving high mechanical performance of PPS/CF composites.

Highlights

Coating sizing agent protected CFs from being fractured during melt processing.

Applying 2 wt% BPR sizing agent yielded the best interfacial performance.

The tensile strength and Yong's modulus of PPS/CFB2 reached as high as 155.9 and 7618.21 MPa.

The tensile fracture mode between BPR‐treated CFs and PPS was cohesive damage.
Comparative study on metabolite variations of two rose teas by plant metabolomics and revealing their skin‐whitening candidates by spectrum–effect relationship analysis
Authors: Xu Jian , Ye Hongwei , Zhang Xindan , Lv Yangbin , Tong Shengqiang , Liu Biao , Ou Zhimin , Chu Chu
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Rosa rugosa var. plena Rehd (CBR) and Rosa chinensis cv. “JinBian” (JBR) are two common species used in rose tea among different original species. CBR, the officially documented original plant of the rose species for food and medicinal purposes, is more costly than JBR. With increasing demand for different rose teas, it is meaningful to compare the chemical constituents for their quality control and reveal their skin‐whitening components that will provide in‐depth insights for the expansion of the rose tea industry.

Objective

This study aims to reveal the chemical variances between CBR and JBR and determine their skin‐whitening components.

Methodology

A strategy obtained by combining MS‐based plant‐metabolomics with spectrum–effect relationship analysis has been proposed for unveiling chemical differences between CBR and JBR and further exploring their potential skin‐whitening components.

Results

A total of 2030 metabolites were found that revealed considerable differences between CBR and JBR. The results of bioactivity assay demonstrated that JBR exhibited stronger tyrosinase inhibition activity than CBR. Six potential skin‐whitening compounds (di‐O‐galloyl‐HHDP‐glucoside, tri‐O‐galloyl‐HHDP‐glucoside, spiraeoside, quinic acid, rugosin A, and 1,2,3,6‐tetra‐O‐galloyl‐glucose) were discovered as potential tyrosinase inhibitors, via spectrum–effect relationship analysis. This is the first time that di‐O‐galloyl‐HHDP‐glucoside, tri‐O‐galloyl‐HHDP‐glucoside, rugosin A, and 1,2,3,6‐tetra‐O‐galloyl‐glucose have been reported with tyrosinase inhibitory activity. Additionally, molecular docking analysis was used to reveal the inhibition mechanism of these compounds toward tyrosinase.

Conclusion

The finding of this study will be of great importance for the quality control of the two types of rose teas, and the revealed active ingredients will provide in‐depth insights for the expansion of the rose tea industry.
Eco‐friendly enhancement of poly(lactic acid)/poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) bridgeable composites using natural cotton stalk: A novel approach to improved mechanical, barrier properties, and compatibility
Authors: Tsou Chi‐Hui , Luo Hang , Lin Shang‐Ming , Preuksarattanawut Charasphat , Potiyaraj Pranut , Wu Chin‐San , Ge Fei‐Fan , Du Juan , Wei Xiaomei
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the potential of using natural cotton stalk (CS) to enhance the properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) composite materials. Simple processed CS, used as a bio‐based filler, is integrated into the PLA/PBAT matrix with the objective of improving mechanical properties, barrier performance, and compatibility, while simultaneously reducing costs and environmental impact. The experiments conducted include tensile testing, scanning electron microscopy analysis, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, X‐ray diffraction study, thermogravimetric analysis, contact angle measurement, water absorption tests, as well as water vapor and oxygen permeability tests. The results demonstrate that the inclusion of CS significantly enhances the mechanical properties and crystallinity of PLA/PBAT composites, along with increasing their water vapor and oxygen barrier capabilities. Compared to PLA/PBAT without CS, the addition of 2% CS to PLA/PBAT led to substantial improvements in tensile strength and elongation at break, with increases of 21.5%, 41.6%, and 74.4%, respectively. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analyses indicate that the incorporation of CS promotes the compatibility and chemical interaction between PLA and PBAT, thereby enhancing various properties of the composite material. Image analysis revealed that the distribution area of CS fibers in the polymer matrix increased with content up to a peak at 2% but decreased at higher contents due to severe agglomeration, leading to uneven distribution and performance decline. This work proposes three possible reasons for the improvement in water vapor and oxygen permeability performance. Overall, the analysis suggests that an optimal amount of CS can effectively enhance multiple properties of PLA/PBAT composites, while excessive CS may lead to a decline in performance.

Highlights

Cotton stalk (CS) boosts polylactic acid/poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PLA/PBAT) tensile strength by 21.5% and elongation by 41.6% at 2% inclusion.

CS addition enhances water vapor and oxygen barrier properties of PLA/PBAT.

Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy show CS improves PLA/PBAT compatibility and strength.

Optimal CS content at 2% identified for best mechanical and barrier performance.

Study validates using agricultural waste as fillers in eco‐friendly composites.
Efficacy of mirror neuron system‐based therapy for rehabilitation of upper limb orthopedic conditions: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Stonsaovapak Chernkhuan , Koonalinthip Nantawan , Kitisomprayoonkul Wasuwat
Published: July 2024

Objective

The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis is to assess the efficacy of mirror neuron system‐based therapy for managing pain and improving motor and upper limb function in patients with upper limb orthopedic conditions.

Literature Survey

Systematic bibliographical searches of the PubMed, SCOPUS, and CENTRAL registries and databases up to September 2023 were conducted to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of mirror neuron system‐based therapy for rehabilitation of upper limb orthopedic conditions.

Methodology

Two reviewers assessed the RCTs using a Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool and extracted data from studies with similar outcome measures in the domains of pain, motor function, or functional score, which were pooled into meta‐analyses.

Synthesis

The review included 13 studies to compare the efficacy of mirror neuron system‐based therapy with that of conventional rehabilitation programs. The therapy reduced pain intensity (mean difference [MD] 2.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.46–2.63) and kinesiophobia (MD 8.43, 95% CI 6.98 to 9.88), and increased grip strength (MD 1.86, 95% CI 0.28–3.45). The therapy also improved upper limb functional outcomes as assessed by the 30‐item Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire score (MD 13.52, 95% CI 10.63–16.41). However, the outcomes as assessed by the 11‐item QuickDASH questionnaire and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) were not superior to conventional rehabilitation.

Conclusions

Mirror neuron system‐based therapy for rehabilitation of upper limb orthopedic conditions may reduce pain intensity and kinesophobia, and improve grip strength and DASH scores compared with conventional rehabilitation programs. However, this interpretation is limited by the heterogeneity and various quality of the RCTs included in our meta‐analysis.
Melt‐functionalization of cellulose nanocrystals using dynamic hindered ureas
Authors: Oluz Zehra , Macke Nicholas , Candelaria Sarah , Ambus Abrianna , Zemborain Aurora , Udemgba Chinwe S. , Weiss Adam M. , Calvino Céline , Rowan Stuart J.
Published: July 2024

Cellulose nanocrystal (CNC)‐reinforced composites are gaining commercial attention on account of their high strength and sustainable sourcing. Grafting polymers to the CNCs in these composites has the potential to improve their properties, but current solution‐based synthesis methods limit their production at scale. Utilizing dynamic hindered urea chemistry, a new method for the melt‐functionalization of cellulose nanocrystals has been developed. This method does not require toxic solvents during the grafting step and can achieve grafting densities competitive with state‐of‐the‐art solution‐based grafting methods. Using cotton‐sourced, TEMPO‐oxidized CNCs, multiple molecular weights of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as well as dodecane, polycaprolactone, and poly(butyl acrylate) were grafted to the CNC surface. With PEG‐grafted nanoparticles, grafting densities of 0.47 chains nm−2 and 0.10 chains nm−2 were achieved with 2000 and 10,000 g mol−1 polymer chains respectively, both of which represent significant improvements over previous reports for solution‐based PEG grafting onto CNCs.
Clinical drug interactions between linezolid and other antibiotics: For adverse drug event monitoring
Authors: Shu Ling , Huo Ben‐nian , Yin Nan‐ge , Xie Hong‐jun , Erbu Aga , Ai Mao‐lin , Jia Yun‐tao , Song Lin
Published: July 2024

Detailed data on safety associated with drug–drug interactions (DDIs) between Linezolid (LZD) and other antibiotics are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety signals related to these DDIs and to provide a reference for clinically related adverse drug event monitoring. Adverse event (AE) information from 1 January 2004 to 16 June 2022 of the target antibiotics including LZD using alone or in combination with LZD was extracted from the OpenVigil FDA data platform for safety signal analysis. The combined risk ratio model, reporting ratio method, Ω shrinkage measure model, and chi‐square statistics model were used to analyze the safety signals related to DDIs. Meanwhile, we evaluated the correlation and the influence of sex and age between the drug(s) and the target AE detected. There were 18991 AEs related to LZD. There were 2293, 1726, 4449, 821, 2431, 1053, and 463 AE reports when LZD was combined with amikacin, voriconazole, meropenem, clarithromycin, levofloxacin, piperacillin‐tazobactam, and azithromycin, respectively. Except for azithromycin, there were positive safety signals related to DDIs between LZD and these antibiotics. These DDIs might influence the incidence of 13, 16, 7, 7, 6, and 15 types of AEs, respectively, and is associated with higher reporting rates of AEs compared with use alone. Moreover, sex and age might influence the occurrence of AEs. We found that the combinations of LZD and other antibiotics are related to multiple AEs, such as hepatotoxicity, drug resistance and electrocardiogram QT prolonged, but further research is still required to investigate their underlying mechanisms. This study can provide a new reference for the safety monitoring of LZD combined with other antibiotics in clinical practice.