bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical stability of stochastic functional differential equations with infinite delay
Authors: Rhaima Mohamed , Mchiri Lassaad , Ben Makhlouf Abdellatif , Sallay Jihen
Published: September 2023

In this study, we explore the realm of practical stability within stochastic functional differential equations with infinite delay (SFDEID). Specifically, we investigate the notions of
th moment and almost sure stability and develop a fresh set of criteria to effectively assess and quantify these properties. To showcase the practical significance of our findings, we apply our newly established criteria to a compelling numerical example, thereby validating the robustness and applicability of our main result.
An evolutionary history of F12 gene: Emergence, loss, and vulnerability with the environment as a driver
Authors: Padilla Sabino , Prado Roberto , Anitua Eduardo
Published: September 2023

In the context of macroevolutionary transitions, environmental changes prompted vertebrates already bearing genetic variations to undergo gradual adaptations resulting in profound anatomical, physiological, and behavioral adaptations. The emergence of new genes led to the genetic variation essential in metazoan evolution, just as was gene loss, both sources of genetic variation resulting in adaptive phenotypic diversity. In this context, F12‐coding protein with defense and hemostatic roles emerged some 425 Mya, and it might have contributed in aquatic vertebrates to the transition from water‐to‐land. Conversely, the F12 loss in marine, air‐breathing mammals like cetaceans has been associated with phenotypic adaptations in some terrestrial mammals in their transition to aquatic lifestyle. More recently, the advent of technological innovations in western lifestyle with blood‐contacting devices and harmful environmental nanoparticles, has unfolded new roles of FXII. Environment operates as either a positive or a relaxed selective pressure on genes, and consequently genes are selected or lost. FXII, an old dog facing environmental novelties can learn new tricks and teach us new therapeutic avenues.
Lentivirus‐based shRNA of Caspase‐3 gene silencing inhibits chondrocyte apoptosis and delays the progression of surgically induced osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhu Weicong , Yang Xiaohong , Liu Shaojie , Wang Yiwen , Li Wenxu , Zhong Qiguang , Zhang Lihua , Xu Jiake
Published: September 2023

Chondrocyte apoptosis is an important pathological feature of osteoarthritis (OA). Excessive apoptosis of chondrocytes disrupts the dynamic balance of cell proliferation and apoptosis, with a marked reduction in chondrocytes and cartilage matrix disintegration, which represents the main pathology of OA. Caspases, especially Caspase‐3, play a central role in cell apoptosis. In this study, a lentiviral vector was used to transduce caspase‐3 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) into rat chondrocytes (RCs), and the apoptotic and phenotypic genes of RCs were analyzed using real‐time PCR and western blotting in vitro. In addition, in vivo intra‐articular injection of Caspase‐3 shRNA lentivirus was performed in a surgically induced OA rat model. Our results showed that Caspase‐3 gene silencing could down‐regulate the TNF‐α‐mediated inflammatory gene expression of TNFR1, FADD, and IL‐1β, apoptotic gene expression of APAF1, Caspase‐3, and Caspase‐9, thereby attenuating the apoptotic pathway in vitro. Caspase‐3 gene silencing also attenuated TNF‐α‐mediated decreased gene expression of ACAN, Col1‐a1, and Col2‐a1. Furthermore, Caspase‐3 gene silencing could effectively reduce the OARSI score, and gene expression of Caspase‐3, Caspase‐9, MMP13, and TNF‐α in a surgically induced OA rat model. Caspase‐3 gene silencing may serve as a novel therapeutic strategy for cartilage injury and OA.
Metabolic profiling of Qi‐Yu‐San‐Long decoction in rat feces by ultraperformance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry combined with a post‐targeted screening strategy
Authors: Fu Xiaojie , Zheng Ting , Li Zegeng , Wu Huan
Published: September 2023

Research into traditional Chinese medicine metabolism in feces is one of the key avenues to understanding the fate of traditional Chinese medicines in vivo. In this study, we used ultraperformance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight MS in combination with a post‐targeted screening strategy to identify the prototype components and metabolites in rat feces after oral administration. Based on our group's previous research, the component database of Qi‐Yu‐San‐Long decoction (QYSLD) was established. Prototype components were screened from the fecal samples based on summarized chromatographic and MS behaviors. According to the chemical structure characteristics of related compounds, the possible metabolic pathways were inferred, and the metabolites related to QYSLD were predicted. We extracted ion chromatograms by predicting the m/z values of metabolite excimer ions and identified related metabolites based on their retention time and fragmentation behavior. A total of 93 QYSLD‐related xenobiotics were confirmed or tentatively identified in rat fecal samples, and the results indicated that the main metabolic pathways of QYSLD were hydrolysis, deglycosylation, oxidation, reduction, decarboxylation, methylation and acetylation. This study presents a rapid method for identifying the prototype components and metabolites, and offers valuable insights into the biotransformation profiling of QYSLD in rat feces.
The neural correlates of texture perception: A systematic review and activation likelihood estimation meta‐analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging studies
Authors: Henderson Jessica , Mari Tyler , Hewitt Danielle , Newton‐Fenner Alice , Giesbrecht Timo , Marshall Alan , Stancak Andrej , Fallon Nicholas
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Humans use discriminative touch to perceive texture through dynamic interactions with surfaces, activating low‐threshold mechanoreceptors in the skin. It was largely assumed that texture was processed in primary somatosensory regions in the brain; however, imaging studies indicate heterogeneous patterns of brain activity associated with texture processing.

Methods

To address this, we conducted a coordinate‐based activation likelihood estimation meta‐analysis of 13 functional magnetic resonance imaging studies (comprising 15 experiments contributing 228 participants and 275 foci) selected by a systematic review.

Results

Concordant activations for texture perception occurred in the left primary somatosensory and motor regions, with bilateral activations in the secondary somatosensory, posterior insula, and premotor and supplementary motor cortices. We also evaluated differences between studies that compared touch processing to non‐haptic control (e.g., rest or visual control) or those that used haptic control (e.g., shape or orientation perception) to specifically investigate texture encoding. Studies employing a haptic control revealed concordance for texture processing only in the left secondary somatosensory cortex. Contrast analyses demonstrated greater concordance of activations in the left primary somatosensory regions and inferior parietal cortex for studies with a non‐haptic control, compared to experiments accounting for other haptic aspects.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that texture processing may recruit higher order integrative structures, and the secondary somatosensory cortex may play a key role in encoding textural properties. The present study provides unique insight into the neural correlates of texture‐related processing by assessing the influence of non‐textural haptic elements and identifies opportunities for a future research design to understand the neural processing of texture.
Determining patients with spinal metastases suitable for surgical intervention: A cost‐effective analysis
Authors: Hsieh Hsiang‐Chieh , Yen Hung‐Kuan , Tseng Ting‐En , Pan Yu‐Ting , Liao Min‐Tsun , Fu Shau‐Huai , Yen Mao‐Hsu , Jaw Fu‐Shan , Lin Wei‐Hsin , Hu Ming‐Hsiao , Yang Shu‐Hua , Groot Olivier Q. , Schoenfeld Andrew J.
Published: September 2023

Background

Both nonoperative and operative treatments for spinal metastasis are expensive interventions. Patients' expected 3‐month survival is believed to be a key factor to determine the most suitable treatment. However, to the best of our knowledge, no previous study lends support to the hypothesis. We sought to determine the cost‐effectiveness of operative and nonoperative interventions, stratified by patients' predicted probability of 3‐month survival.

Methods

A Markov model with four defined health states was used to estimate the quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) and costs for operative intervention with postoperative radiotherapy and radiotherapy alone (palliative low‐dose external beam radiotherapy) of spine metastases. Transition probabilities for the model, including the risks of mortality and functional deterioration, were obtained from secondary and our institutional data. Willingness to pay thresholds were prespecified at $100,000 and $150,000. The analyses were censored after 5‐year simulation from a health system perspective and discounted outcomes at 3% per year. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to test the robustness of the study design.

Results

The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios were $140,907 per QALY for patients with a 3‐month survival probability >50%, $3,178,510 per QALY for patients with a 3‐month survival probability <50%, and $168,385 per QALY for patients with independent ambulatory and 3‐month survival probability >50%.

Conclusions

This study emphasizes the need to choose patients carefully and estimate preoperative survival for those with spinal metastases. In addition to reaffirming previous research regarding the influence of ambulatory status on cost‐effectiveness, our study goes a step further by highlighting that operative intervention with postoperative radiotherapy could be more cost‐effective than radiotherapy alone for patients with a better survival outlook. Accurate survival prediction tools and larger future studies could offer more detailed insights for clinical decisions.
Identifying points for therapeutic intervention from the lived experiences of people seeking help for retroactive jealousy
Authors: Blayney Robert , Burgess Mark
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Retroactive jealousy is an unhealthy interest in a partner's romantic/sexual history that has a detrimental effect on sufferers and relationships. Significant numbers of people seek therapeutic help for retroactive jealousy each year, but no research has used their lived experiences to identify potential therapeutic interventions. That was the aim of this research.

Methods

Seven adults (21–43 years) who had sought help for retroactive jealousy were interviewed about their experiences. Participants' accounts were analysed with reflexive thematic analysis, and findings were used to identify potential therapeutic interventions.

Findings

Three main themes represented participants' experiences. Fears threaten hope and security involved negative self‐comparisons with past rivals, a sense of one's partner and the relationship losing value and of feeling wronged. Feeling compelled to know about the past involved one's mind as a creative generator of distress and feeling compelled to seek reassurance but making things worse. Feeling split and out of control involved feeling like a devil was on one's shoulder and having retroactive jealousy as a constant background to relational life.

Implications

Therapeutic guidance for change and growth can be directed at participants' desires to forge a special romantic relationship, to achieve a more stable sense of self, and to act consistently with their underlying values and not in response to their visceral fears. We offer suggestions for psychoeducation regarding characteristics of healthy relationships, for working to move from insecure to secure responses, and for integrating cognitive defusion and implementation intentions to enhance agency.
Exogenous Putrescine Changes Biochemical (Antioxidant Activity, Polyphenol, Flavonoid, and Total Phenol Compounds) and Essential Oil Constituents of Salvia officinalis L.
Authors: Zeynali Reza , Najafian Sharareh , Hosseinifarahi Mehdi
Published: September 2023

Polyamines are small polycationic molecules containing amines that are present in almost all cells of living organisms and act in a wide range of physiological processes, growth, and development, biological and protection of cells against free radicals. This research is based on principal component analysis (PCA) and calculation of selection criteria (SC) to investigate the effect of foliar spraying of polyamine putrescine on essential oil yield, essential oil compounds, antioxidant activity, and biochemical compounds (polyphenol, flavonoid, and total phenol compounds) of Salvia officinalis. The treatments used included four levels of putrescine, Put (Control: 0, Put1: 500, Put2: 1000, and Put3: 1500 mg L−1) with five replications. Based on our results, four factors had eigenvalues≥1 and showed a cumulative variance percentage of 92.57 % by applying different concentrations of putrescine. According to the results of this research, putrescine had significant effects on the amount of total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. The best attention to improving the essential oil yield of sage was 1000 mg L−1. The crucial essential oil compounds of different Put treated sage were: cis‐thujone (35.34 %), camphor (15.60 %), trans‐thujone (9.90 %), 1,8‐cineole (9.46 %), α‐humulene (3.85 %), viridiflorol (3.62 %), camphene (3.58 %), α‐pinene (3.50 %), β‐pinene (2.78 %), and limonene (1.23 %). The results showed that the amount of total phenol, the phenolic composition of catechin, and the antioxidant activity of sage plant extract increased significantly when putrescine was used at 1000 mg/liter. Results can use the current research to optimize the production management of medicinal plants and improve the quality of their products. In addition, the advantage of using putrescine is that it increases antioxidants and reduces oxidative damage, and can replace medicinal plants as suitable natural preservatives, thus improving food quality and safety.
Late N‐acetylcysteine for successful recovery of acetaminophen‐related acute liver failure: A case report
Authors: Alizadeh Nafiseh , Yaryari Amir‐Mohammad , Behnoush Amir Hossein , Raoufinejad Kosar , Behnoush Behnam
Published: September 2023

Acetaminophen toxicity is one of the leading causes of liver failure. Although N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) is generally successful in preventing acetaminophen hepatotoxicity when given in a timely manner, if not prescribed in the early golden time, the only practical way to save the patient might be liver transplantation. The case presented was a 20‐year‐old female with an acetaminophen overdose (30 g), for which more than 24 h had passed since the ingestion. Despite the critical clinical condition, loss of consciousness (Glasgow Coma Score of 4) of the patient, and passing the golden time of antidote administration, the decision was made by the healthcare team to administer NAC. After transferring the patient to the intensive care unit, the three‐bag NAC regimen was initiated and appropriate monitoring was performed. After this, the regimen of 3 g q8h was continued for the patient. The patient's condition began to improve slowly on the second day and then she was extubated on the fourth day. Finally, she was discharged on the tenth day. Although the golden period of antidote administration had passed outwardly, there was no need for a liver transplant and the patient recovered successfully with late NAC administration. Hence, clinicians can benefit from the use of NAC even in the late phases of acetaminophen liver toxicity.
Massive ossifying fibroma of mandible: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Nnko Kanankira A. , Rwakatema Deogratius S. , Mariki Jackson M. , Baraka Calvin J. , Pima Raphael T. , Damas Sosthenes , Mremi Alex
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Benign fibro‐osseous neoplasm. Massive size is rarely reported. May be confused with other pathologies such as fibrous dysplasia or osteosarcoma. Aggressive nature and high recurrence pose management challenges. Treated by surgery.

Ossifying fibroma is a benign fibro‐osseous neoplasm. It can affect both mandible and maxilla. Precise diagnosis can be challenging due to significant overlap of clinicopathological features with other neoplasms. Case reports with massive tumor sizes as presented in our case are uncommon. Huge tumor size can cause alarm for other pathologies such as osteosarcoma. The radiological tests should reassure the attending practitioner and histological examination confirm the diagnosis. The aim of the present report is to discuss a case of a giant ossifying fibroma in a 13‐year‐old male child. He presented with a progressive mandibular mass for 4 years. Clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics and surgical treatment approaches are further discussed. This is one of the rare cases of massive ossifying fibroma in the English literature.
Underwater Adhesives from Redox‐Responsive Polyplexes of Thiolated Polyamide Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Sharma Aashish , Dutta Tanmay , Srivastava Aasheesh
Published: September 2023

We report the fabrication of optically clear underwater adhesives using polyplexes of oppositely charged partially‐thiolated polyamide polyelectrolytes (TPEs). The thiol content of the constituent PEs was varied to assess its influence on the adhesive properties of the resulting glues. These catechol‐free, redox‐responsive TPE‐adhesives were formulated in aquo and exhibited high optical transparency and strong adhesion even on submerged or moist surfaces of diverse polar substrates such as glass, aluminium, wood, and bone pieces. The adhesives could be cured under water through oxidative disulphide crosslinking of the constituent TPEs. The polyamide backbone provided multi‐site H‐bonding interactions with the substrates while the disulphide crosslinking provided the cohesive strength to the glue. Strong adhesion of mammalian bones (load bearing capacity upto 7 kg/cm2) was achieved using the adhesive containing 30 mol % thiol residues. Higher pH and use of oxidants such as povidone‐iodine solution enhanced the curing rate of the adhesives, and so did the use of Tris buffer instead of Phosphate buffer. The porous architecture of the adhesive and its progressive degradation in aqueous medium over the course of three weeks bode well for diverse biomedical applications where temporary adhesion of tissues is required.
Halide Complexes of 5,6‐Dicyano‐2,1,3‐Benzoselenadiazole with 1 : 4 Stoichiometry: Cooperativity between Chalcogen and Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Radiush Ekaterina A. , Wang Hui , Chulanova Elena A. , Ponomareva Yana A. , Li Bin , Wei Qiao Yu , Salnikov Georgy E. , Petrakova Svetlana Yu. , Semenov Nikolay A. , Zibarev Andrey V.
Published: September 2023

The [M4−Hal]− (M=the title compound; Hal=Cl, Br, and I) complexes were isolated in the form of salts of [Et4N]+ cation and characterized by XRD, NMR, UV‐Vis, DFT, QTAIM, EDD, and EDA. Their stoichiometry is caused by a cooperative interplay of σ‐hole‐driven chalcogen (ChB) and hydrogen (HB) bondings. In the crystal, [M4−Hal]− are connected by the π‐hole‐driven ChB; overall, each [Hal]− is six‐coordinated. In the ChB, the electrostatic interaction dominates over orbital and dispersion interactions. In UV‐Vis spectra of the M+[Hal]− solutions, ChB‐typical and [Hal]−‐dependent charge‐transfer bands are present; they reflect orbital interactions and allow identification of the individual [Hal]−. However, the structural situation in the solutions is not entirely clear. Particularly, the UV‐Vis spectra of the solutions are different from the solid‐state spectra of the [Et4N]+[M4−Hal]−; very tentatively, species in the solutions are assigned [M−Hal]−. It is supposed that the formation of the [M4−Hal]− proceeds during the crystallization of the [Et4N]+[M4−Hal]−. Overall, M can be considered as a chromogenic receptor and prototype sensor of [Hal]−. The findings are also useful for crystal engineering and supramolecular chemistry.
Drug addiction and marital conflicts: Exploring the experiences of drug‐addicted wives in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Abdullahi Ali Arazeem , Abidemi Olagunju Rafia , Ntozini Anathi
Published: September 2023

Recent studies have shown that women now abuse drugs as much as men. Women even abuse certain kinds of drugs more than men. There is strong evidence that some married women also engage in drug abuse. However, few studies have explored the experiences of drug addicted wives in Nigeria in relation to marital conflicts. In this study, the experiences of drug addicted wives were explored in relation to marital conflicts in Nigeria using a phenomenological research design. A total of 18 married women participated in the study. They were purposively selected from a socially disadvantaged neighborhood of Batcher Estate, Gwarinpa, Abuja, Nigeria. In‐depth interviews (IDI) were used to collect data from the participants. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Two major conclusions were drawn from the study. Drug addiction may cause marital conflicts and vice versa. However, wives abusing drugs without the consent of partners or husbands were more likely to report marital conflicts than those abusing drugs with their partners' consent. Two groups of drug abusers were also discovered: those who were initiated into drug abuse/addiction prior to marriage and those who started taking drugs after marriage. Factors influencing drug abuse/addiction were complex and comprised a combination of psycho‐social and environmental issues. Access to substance‐use disorder (SUD) treatment was, however, impeded by poor knowledge, stigma and shame. Improved access to treatment is an important asset in minimizing drug abuse among married women and its impact on marital conflicts.
Research on improving the durability performance of damaged concrete based on ultra high performance concrete repair
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Liu Shuai , Zhang Wenwu , Guo Baolin
Published: September 2023

This article uses ultra‐high performance concrete (UHPC) to repair damaged concrete and analyzes the durability performance of the repaired concrete. Among them, three erosion solutions with a mass concentration of 2.8% NaCl + 0.29% Na2SO4, 5% NaCl, and 5% NaCl + 10% Na2SO4 were designed to soak the concrete specimens for 1 to 3 months. Taking the SWC test group as an example, when the concrete test block undergoes 30 dry wet cycles and the erosion depth is 20 mm, the difference in chloride ion concentration under different diffusion dimensions is not significant. After 90 dry wet cycles, at a depth of 20 mm, the chloride ion concentration inside the concrete in the three‐dimensional diffusion state reached 3 times that of one‐dimensional diffusion, and the chloride ion concentration in the two‐dimensional diffusion state also reached 2 times that of one‐dimensional diffusion. At a depth of 30 mm, a small amount of chloride ion content was also found in the two‐dimensional diffusion and three‐dimensional diffusion.
Rationally designed hole transporting layer system for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lee Jaehee , Son Taewoong , Min Kyeongbin , Park Seongjun , Kim Youngwoong , Seo Jangwon
Published: September 2023

In this review, p‐type doping technologies for organic/polymeric semiconductors in hole transporting layer (HTL) for perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are examined. Initially, we investigate the conventional dopant systems used for HTL in terms of dopants and additives, as well as their doping principles and limitations. Second, we recapitulate the current research strategies for overcoming the limitations of conventional dopant systems: (i) dopants/additives with large cations, (ii) hydrophobic dopants/additives, (iii) locking‐capable dopants/additives, (iv) rinsing or ion exchange methods, and (v) other methods. Afterwards, we provide a comprehensive analysis of alternative dopants based on ionic liquids, Lewis acids, strong acceptors, and others. In addition, the review emphasizes current achievements based on multiple research approaches to diverse hole transporting materials, surface/interfacial treatment, and architectural modification of HTL, and provides a perspective on developments of desirable HTL system for efficient and stable PSCs.

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Differences in the incidence and mortality of digestive cancer between Global Cancer Observatory 2020 and Global Burden of Disease 2019
Authors: Yu Ziqing , Bai Xiaoyin , Zhou Runing , Ruan Gechong , Guo Mingyue , Han Wei , Jiang Shiyu , Yang Hong
Published: September 2023

The burden of digestive cancers is increasing worldwide. The Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2020 and the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 are two primary cancer databases, which have a significant impact on policy formulation and resource allocation. We aim to compare the incidence and mortality of digestive cancers between them. Digestive cancer (esophageal, stomach, colorectal, liver, gallbladder and pancreatic cancer) incidence was obtained from the Cancer Today and GBD 2019 result tool. The top five countries with the most or minor difference between GLOBOCAN 2020 and GBD 2019 in age‐standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) of digestive cancers were identified. A systematic search on the incidence of specific digestive cancer in selected countries from PubMed and Embase was conducted, and 20 of 281 publications were included. The most significant differences in digestive cancers incidence were commonly found in Asian countries (70%), particularly Indonesia, Vietnam and Myanmar, located in Southeast Asia. The ASIRs for most digestive cancers, except liver cancer, in GLOBOCAN 2020 were higher than those in GBD 2019. Gallbladder cancer had the highest average ratio, followed by liver cancer. The most commonly used standard population was Segi's standard population, followed by the World Health Organization standard population. The data sources nor the processing methods of GLOBOCAN 2020 and GBD 2019 were not similar. Low‐ and middle‐income countries without population‐based cancer registries were more likely to have selection bias in data collection and amplify regional variations of etiological factors. Better judgments on the quality of cancer data can be made.
Enterprise large language models: Knowledge characteristics, risks, and organizational activities
Authors: O'Leary Daniel E.
Published: September 2023

Since the release of OpenAI's ChatGPT, there has been substantial interest in and concern about generative AI systems. This paper investigates some of the characteristics, risks, and limitations with the enterprise use of enterprise large language models. In so doing, we study the organizational impact, continuing a long line of research on that topic. This paper examines the impact on expertise, the organizational implications of multiple correlated but different responses to the same query, the potential concerns associated with sensitive information and intellectual property, and some applications that likely would not be appropriate for large language models. We also investigate the possibility of agents potentially manipulating the content in these large language models for their own benefit. Finally, we investigate the emerging phenomenon of “ChatBot Enterprise” versions, including some of the implications and concerns of such enterprise large language models.
Are Leydig Cell Steroidogenic Enzymes Differentially Regulated With Aging?
Authors: LUO LINDI , CHEN HAOLIN , ZIRKIN BARRY R.
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT: Previous studies have shown that the ability of Brown Norway rat Leydig cells to produce testosterone declines significantly with age. To address the possible mechanism(s) by which aging Leydig cells lose steroidogenic function, we determined the effect of age on the steady‐state levels of the mRNAs for the steroidogenic enzymes P450 cholesterol side‐chain cleavage (P450scc), δ5‐3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/δ5‐δ4‐isomerase (3β‐HSD), and 17α‐hydroxylase/C17.20 lyase (P45017α), and on the levels of immunoreactive steroidogenic enzyme proteins and enzyme activities. Northern blot analysis revealed that the levels of P450scc and P45017α mRNAs in Leydig cells isolated from the testes of aged (22‐month‐old) Brown Norway rats were reduced from their levels in young (4‐month‐old) rats, but that 3β‐HSD mRNA was not reduced.

Western blot analysis, however, revealed that cellular levels of each of the P450scc, P45017α, and 3β‐HSD proteins were reduced with aging. The activities of the steroidogenic enzymes, assessed by incubating Leydig cells in culture with substrate and then summing all steroidogenic reaction products through testosterone, similarly revealed that P450scc, 3β‐HSD, P45017α, and additionally 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β‐HSD), were all reduced with aging. We conclude that age‐related loss of steroidogenic function results at least in part from reductions in the levels and activities of each of the steroidogenic enzymes responsible for converting cholesterol to testosterone, and not by differential regulation of these enzymes.
Epoxy silane sulfobetaine block copolymers for simple, aqueous thromboresistant coating on ambulatory assist lung devices
Authors: Ye Sang‐Ho , Orizondo Ryan A. , De Bianca Nina , Kim Seungil , Frankowski Brian J. , Federspiel William J. , Wagner William R.
Published: September 2023

Developing an ambulatory assist lung (AAL) for patients who need continuous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has been associated with several design objectives, including the design of compact components, optimization of gas transfer efficiency, and reduced thrombogenicity. In an effort to address thrombogenicity concerns with currently utilized component biomaterials, a low molecular weight water soluble siloxane‐functionalized zwitterionic sulfobetaine (SB‐Si) block copolymer was coated on a full‐scale AAL device set via a one pot aqueous circulation coating. All device parts including hollow fiber bundle, housing, tubing and cannular were successfully coated with increasing atomic compositions of the SB block copolymer and the coated surfaces showed a significant reduction of platelet deposition while gas exchange performance was sustained. However, water solubility of the SB‐Si was unstable, and the coating method, including oxygen plasma pretreatment on the surfaces were considered inconsistent with the objective of developing a simple aqueous coating. Addressing these weaknesses, SB block copolymers were synthesized bearing epoxy or epoxy‐silane groups with improved water solubility (SB‐EP & SB‐EP‐Si) and no requirement for surface pretreatment (SB‐EP‐Si). An SB‐EP‐Si triblock copolymer showed the most robust coating capacity and stability without prior pretreatment to represent a simple aqueous circulation coating on an assembled full‐scale AAL device.
Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs for treatment of cancer cachexia: A systematic review
Authors: Bowers Megan , Cucchiaro Brittany , Reid Joanne , Slee Adrian
Published: September 2023

Cancer cachexia (CC) is a multifactorial syndrome driven by inflammation, defined by ongoing loss of skeletal muscle mass (with or without loss of fat mass) that cannot be fully reversed by conventional nutritional support. CC leads to progressive functional impairment, with its clinical management complicated and limited therapeutic options available. The objective of this review was to assess the efficacy and safety of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on patient‐centred outcomes in patients with CC. In 2013, two systematic reviews concluded that there was insufficient evidence to recommend NSAIDs for clinical management of CC outside of clinical trials. However, clinical trials of multi‐component CC interventions have included NSAIDs as an intervention component, so an up‐to‐date assessment of the evidence for NSAIDs in the treatment of CC is warranted. Four databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and CINAHL) and three trial registers (clinicaltrials.gov, WHO ICTRP and ISRCTN) were searched on 16 December 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any NSAID (any dose or duration) with a control arm, in adult patients with CC, reporting measures of body weight, body composition, nutrition impact symptoms, inflammation, physical function or fatigue, were eligible for inclusion. Primary outcomes (determined with patient involvement) were survival, changes in muscle strength, body composition, body weight and quality of life. Included studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Revised Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool for randomized trials. Five studies were included, which investigated Indomethacin (n = 1), Ibuprofen (n = 1) and Celecoxib (n = 3). Four studies were judged to be at high risk of bias for all outcomes, with one study raising concerns for most outcomes. Considerable clinical and methodological heterogeneity amongst the studies meant that meta‐analysis was not appropriate. There was insufficient evidence to determine whether Indomethacin or Ibuprofen is effective or safe for use in patients with CC; RCTs with lower risk of bias are needed. Celecoxib studies indicated it was safe for use in this population at the doses tested (200–400 mg/day) but found contrasting results regarding efficacy, potentially reflecting heterogeneity amongst the studies. There is inadequate evidence to recommend any NSAID for CC. While current clinical trials for CC treatments are shifting towards multi‐component interventions, further research to determine the efficacy and safety of NSAIDs alone is necessary if they are to be included in such multi‐component interventions. Furthermore, the lack of data on patient‐determined primary outcomes in this review highlights the need for patient involvement in clinical trials for CC.
ZSM‐5@KIT‐6‐encapsulated composite molecular sieves for the catalytic cracking of waste cooking oil model compound to produce light olefins
Authors: Zhang Guoliang , Liu Haoyu , Fu Sen , Yuan Hong
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

A series of ZSM‐5@KIT‐6 composite molecular sieve catalysts was prepared by encapsulating ZSM‐5 as a substrate in the mesoporous material KIT‐6. The intent was to use these catalysts to promote the catalytic cracking of a waste cooking oil model compound (WCOMC) to produce light olefins.

RESULTS

The morphology, structural characteristics and acidity of each of the resulting catalysts were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, N2‐Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (N2‐BET) surface area analysis and temperature‐programmed ammonia desorption. The results showed that ZSM‐5 was successfully coated with KIT‐6. The BET surface areas of these catalysts ranged from 345 to 792 m2 g−1 and the specimens had average pore sizes in the range of 2.37–5.51 nm. Total acidity increased with increases in the mass‐based proportion of ZSM‐5 in the material.

CONCLUSION

The catalytic cracking of WCOMC was studied in a lab‐scale fixed‐bed apparatus. Trials at a reaction temperature of 600 °C using the material having a mass‐based ZSM‐5 proportion of 80.0% (ZK‐80) gave the highest gas‐phase yield of light olefins of 43.8%. After 6000 min, the catalytic performance of this material remained stable, demonstrating a resistance to carbon deposits. The superior activity of the present composite catalysts can be ascribed to improvements in pore structure and acid strength distribution. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Prevalence and incidence of patients with generalized pustular psoriasis in Denmark—A nationwide registry‐based study
Authors: Haugaard Jeanette Halskou , Thein David , Egeberg Alexander
Published: September 2023

Background

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is an inflammatory skin disease characterized by episodic flares of erythematous painful skin with widespread sterile pustules. The disease is a rare and potentially life‐threatening variant of psoriasis. To date, little is known about the incidence and prevalence of GPP; possibly due to the rarity of the disease.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to examine the incidence and prevalence of patients with GPP in Denmark.

Methods

The incidence and prevalence of GPP were calculated based on data from the Danish nationwide administrative registries. We identified patients with incident GPP as those recorded with a first‐ever diagnostic code for GPP between 1 January 1997 and 31 December 2018. The prevalence of GPP was estimated based on all Danes alive and resident in the source population on 31 December 2018.

Results

The incidence rates of GPP varied from 0.14 to 0.43 per 100,000 person‐years in a period spanning 22 years (1997–2018). There was generally a strong female predominance among patients diagnosed with GPP, and mean age at the time of diagnosis varied from 47 to 64 years in the study period. We estimated the lifetime prevalence of GPP to be 0.0111%, or 11.1 per 100,000 Danish residents.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the incidence rates of GPP have remained stable in a time‐period spanning 22 years from 1997 to 2018, however, the rate of inpatient hospitalizations did appear to be somewhat decreasing in more recent years.
AC corrosion of steel pipeline under cathodic protection: A state‐of‐the‐art review
Authors: Farahani Emadoddin Majdabadi , Su Yuhan , Chen Xiao , Wang Hao , Laughorn Tyler R. , Onesto Frank , Zhou Qixin , Huang Qindan
Published: September 2023

By the advancement of the oil, electricity, and transportation industries, an increasing number of oil and gas pipelines were buried alongside high‐voltage alternating current (AC) transmission lines and electrified railways. This resulted in a growing issue of AC interference in buried pipelines. Previous studies have shown that the presence of AC interference can result in severe corrosion damage to metallic structures, even when cathodic protection (CP) is available. This paper provides a state‐of‐the‐art review on AC corrosion of cathodically protected pipeline steel. Specifically, attention is paid to research areas including influencing factors in AC corrosion for pipelines under CP, existing AC protection criteria, corrosion risk assessment based on probability of failure, numerical simulation in AC corrosion, and mitigation of AC corrosion. Each area of research is reviewed in detail and the corresponding technical gaps and future research opportunities are identified and discussed.
Harmonizing Genetic Testing for Parkinson's Disease: Results of the PARKNET Multicentric Study
Authors: Di Fonzo Alessio , Percetti Marco , Monfrini Edoardo , Palmieri Ilaria , Albanese Alberto , Avenali Micol , Bartoletti‐Stella Anna , Blandini Fabio , Brescia Gloria , Calandra‐Buonaura Giovanna , Campopiano Rosa , Capellari Sabina , Colangelo Isabel , Comi Giacomo Pietro , Cuconato Giada , Ferese Rosangela , Galandra Caterina , Gambardella Stefano , Garavaglia Barbara , Gaudio Andrea , Giardina Emiliano , Invernizzi Federica , Mandich Paola , Mineri Rossana , Panteghini Celeste , Reale Chiara , Trevisan Lucia , Zampatti Stefania , Cortelli Pietro , Valente Enza Maria ,   the PARKNET study group
Published: September 2023

Background and Objective

Early‐onset Parkinson's disease (EOPD) commonly recognizes a genetic basis; thus, patients with EOPD are often addressed to diagnostic testing based on next‐generation sequencing (NGS) of PD‐associated multigene panels. However, NGS interpretation can be challenging in a diagnostic setting, and few studies have addressed this issue so far.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from 648 patients with PD with age at onset younger than 55 years who underwent NGS of a minimal shared panel of 15 PD‐related genes, as well as PD‐multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification in eight Italian diagnostic laboratories. Data included a minimal clinical dataset, the complete list of variants included in the diagnostic report, and final interpretation (positive/negative/inconclusive). Patients were further stratified based on age at onset ≤40 years (very EOPD, n = 157). All variants were reclassified according to the latest American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics criteria. For classification purposes, PD‐associated GBA1 variants were considered diagnostic.

Results

In 186 of 648 (29%) patients, the diagnostic report listed at least one variant, and the outcome was considered diagnostic (positive) in 105 (16%). After reanalysis, diagnosis changed in 18 of 186 (10%) patients, with 5 shifting from inconclusive to positive and 13 former positive being reclassified as inconclusive. A definite diagnosis was eventually reached in 97 (15%) patients, of whom the majority carried GBA1 variants or, less frequently, biallelic PRKN variants. In 89 (14%) cases, the genetic report was inconclusive.

Conclusions

This study attempts to harmonize reporting of PD genetic testing across several diagnostic labs and highlights current difficulties in interpreting genetic variants emerging from NGS‐multigene panels, with relevant implications for counseling. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Pointwise error estimate of the compact difference methods for the fourth‐order parabolic equations with the third Neumann boundary conditions
Authors: Gao Guang‐hua , Huang Yu , Sun Zhi‐Zhong
Published: September 2023

Various boundary value conditions have been endowed for the fourth‐order differential equations. In the current work, a class of the fourth‐order parabolic equations with the third Neumann boundary conditions is concerned, where the values of the second and third spatial derivatives of the unknown function are given at the boundary. A novel average is defined to get the compact approximation near the boundary. Then a compact difference scheme is derived by using the weighted average and the method of order reduction. Due to the special and highly accurate discretization at the boundary, the related terms have to be handled skillfully during the analysis. By the energy method, the unique solvability, unconditional stability, and convergence of the derived compact difference scheme are strictly proved. The analytical difficulties caused by the boundary approximation are successfully overcome. As far as we know, this is the first time that the global pointwise fourth‐order convergence in space of the difference approach for this problem is achieved. In addition, the generalization to solve the case with a space‐dependent reaction coefficient is discussed. Finally, two numerical examples are computed to verify the accuracy of proposed numerical schemes.
Evaluation of the molecular origin of amide proton transfer–weighted imaging
Authors: Sun Casey , Zhao Yu , Zu Zhongliang
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the assumption in amide proton transfer weighted (APTw) imaging that the APT dominates over the relayed nuclear Overhauser enhancement (rNOE) and other CEST effects such as those from amines/guanidines, thereby providing imaging of mobile proteins/peptides.

Methods

We introduced two auxiliary asymmetric analysis metrics that can vary the relative contributions from amine/guanidinium CEST and other effects. By comparing these metrics with the conventional asymmetric analysis metric on healthy rat brains, we can approximately assess the contribution from amines/guanidines to APTw and determine whether the APT dominates over the rNOE effect. To further investigate the molecular origin of APTw, we used samples of dialyzed tissue homogenates to eliminate small metabolites and supernatants of homogenates to separate lipids from other components.

Results

When the APTw signal is positive using high saturation amplitudes (e.g., 2–3 μT), the contributions from amines/guanidines are significant and cannot be ignored. The APTw signal from the dialyzed homogenates and the controls has negligible changes, indicating that it primarily originates from macromolecules rather than small metabolites. Additionally, the APTw signals with low saturation amplitudes (e.g., 1 μT) were negative in tissue homogenates but positive in their supernatants, suggesting that proteins contribute positively to APTw signals, whereas lipids contribute negatively to it.

Conclusion

The positive APTw signal using high saturation amplitudes could have significant contributions from soluble proteins through CEST, including amide/amine/guanidine proton transfer effects. In contrast, the negative APTw signal using low saturation amplitudes has significant contribution from lipids through rNOE.
Finding the sweet spot: Managing parenteral nutrition–related glycemic complications in hospitalized adults
Authors: Cogle Sarah V. , Hutchison Amber M. , Mulherin Diana W.
Published: September 2023

Parenteral nutrition (PN) remains an important aspect of treating hospitalized adult patients who are otherwise unable to achieve adequate nutrition intake. PN is highly individualized and requires careful adjustment of macronutrients and micronutrients to minimize complications. One frequent complication associated with PN involves blood glucose (BG) derangements including both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. PN‐related glycemic complications are complex and multifactorial. Close BG monitoring is required for selecting and evaluating therapeutic interventions. BG goals for patients treated with PN may vary depending on patient‐specific characteristics. Since dextrose provides the carbohydrate source in PN prescriptions, hyperglycemia may be expected, but nondextrose causes must also be considered. Insulin is a mainstay of therapy for managing glycemic complications related to PN, and the regimen chosen depends on patient‐specific factors. However, insulin therapy also places the patient at an increased risk of hypoglycemia. Similarly, insulin is not the sole cause of hypoglycemia in these patients. The aim of this review is to describe the factors associated with dysglycemia during PN therapy and provide recommendations for minimizing and managing these complications, which is paramount to providing high‐quality patient care and improving clinical outcomes.
Bismaleimide resin co‐modified by allyl ether of resveratrol and allyl ether of eugenol‐grafted polysiloxane with enhanced toughness, heat resistance, and flame retardancy
Authors: Xie Kaili , Zhang Zilong , Zhang Ke , Li Xiaohan , Bao Ying , Huang Jiateng , Li Xiaojie , Liu Jingcheng , Wei Wei
Published: September 2023

Modifying bismaleimide (BMI) resin to improve its toughness and flame retardancy without sacrificing the glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermal decomposition stability is still a challenge. In this study, we employed the allyl ether of resveratrol (AER) and eugenol allyl ether grafted polysiloxane (PMES‐Allyl) to co‐modify BMI resin. For the BMI/AER/PMES‐Allyl (BAPA) resin, the content of PMES‐Allyl was 15 wt%, and the molar ratio of maleimide and allyl groups was controlled as 1:0.8. Compared to commercial 2,2′‐diallyl bisphenol A modified BMI (BD) resin, the BAPA resin exhibited superior thermal properties after curing, due to the role of AER in improving the crosslinking density and chain rigidity of the network. The cured BAPA resin had a Tg more than 380°C, and its initial thermal decomposition temperature (Td5%) and char yield (Y800°C) reached 424.8°C and 46.4%, respectively. Meanwhile, PMES‐Allyl as a rubber phase could effectively improve the toughness of the cured resin. The impact strength of the cured BAPA resin was 15.2 kJ/m2. Moreover, the two modifiers both helped to improve the flame retardancy of the material. Compared with the cured BD resin, the cured BAPA resin showed a decrease of peak heat release rate (PHRR), total heat release (THR), and maximum average rate of heat emission (MARHE) by 25.5%, 35.5%, and 31.5%, respectively. Its total smoke production (TSP) was only 35.6% of that of the cured BD resin. In addition, the cured BAPA resin also displayed a lowered water absorption and improved thermal aging resistance. Therefore, it is suggested to be a promising and high‐performance thermosetting resin for cutting‐edge applications.