bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacotherapy of Weight‐loss and Obesity with a Focus on GLP 1‐Receptor Agonists
Authors: Myerson Merle , Paparodis Rodis D.
Published: June 2024

Obesity is a disease of epidemic proportions in the United States and contributes to morbidity and mortality for a large part of the population. In addition, the financial costs of this disease to society are high. Lifestyle modifications are key to prevention and treatment but adherence and long‐term success have been challenging. Bariatric surgery has been available and pharmacologic approaches, first developed in the 1950s, continue to be an option; however, existing formulations have not provided optimal clinical efficacy and have had many concerning adverse effects. Over the last decade, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonists, a novel group of medications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, were found to produce significant weight loss. Several formulations, at higher doses, received FDA approval for the treatment of obesity or those overweight with weight‐related co‐morbidities. More hormone‐based therapies were and are being developed, some with dual or triple‐receptor agonist activity. Their use, however, is not without questions and concerns as to long‐term safety and efficacy, problems with cost and reimbursement, and how their use may intersect with public health efforts to manage the obesity epidemic. This review will focus on the GLP‐1 receptor agonists currently used for weight loss and discuss their pharmacology, pertinent research findings establishing their benefits and risks, issues with prescribing these medications, and a perspective from a public health point of view.
The value of stereoscopic three‐dimensional vision on dental students’ performance in a virtual reality simulator
Authors: Al Ali Huda , Nassief Sarah , Towers Ashley , Field James , Martin Nicolas
Published: June 2024

Purpose/objectives

The aim of this study was to quantitatively investigate the impact of stereoscopic three‐dimensional (3D) vision on students’ performance when compared with that of two‐dimensional (2D) vision in a 3D virtual reality (VR) simulator.

Methods

Twenty‐four dental students (second‐ and fourth‐year BDS) were assigned to perform three operative tasks under 3D and 2D viewing conditions on a Virteasy (HRV) simulator. Groups were crossed over and all students performed the same tasks under the alternate viewing conditions. The performance was evaluated by (1) accuracy, (2) outside target area removal, and (3) tooth cutting time, automatically using the generated feedback.

Results

Twenty‐one participants completed all sessions. The results revealed a statistically significant effect of 3D vision over 2D vision on students’ performance in terms of accuracy (p = 0.035). Stereoscopic 3D vision showed significant effect on outside target area removal in the first task (p = 0.035). Tooth cutting time was the same under both conditions (p = 0.766). The findings revealed improvement in accuracy score and reduction in outside target area removal over the course of the experiment under both conditions. Comparing the difference in 3D effect in the early and advanced learning groups revealed no significant difference among the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Utilizing stereoscopic 3D vision in the training session improved students’ perception of depth which led to more accurate tooth cutting within the target area, and less outside target area removal. However, 3D shows a limited impact on task completion time.
Attachment and meaning‐making of Arabic mothers during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Ghoston Michelle R. , Alwahibah Salma O. , Alkusayer Asma Tawfik , Fetyani Lolwa , Alnashmi Fai , Field Thomas A.
Published: June 2024

The global impact of COVID‐19 heightened existential awareness particularly among parents. This period provided a unique opportunity to implement the circle of security program, equipping parents to address parental stress, anxiety, and depression. Conducted with mothers in Saudi Arabia ranging in age from 19 to 30 years, this quasi‐experimental intervention study demonstrated a notable reduction in negative emotions, coupled with enhanced parent–child relationships and a strengthened sense of purpose in parenting. A total of 70 (55%) mothers attended at least 6 of 8 sessions, the criteria for completer status. After the intervention, there was a significant improvement in mental health, as the majority of participants fell within the normal ranges for anxiety (91.4%), depression (95.7%), and stress (95.7%). Furthermore, statistical evaluations provided strong evidence of the intervention's success, demonstrating a significant reduction in mean anxiety scores from 4.44 ± 3.88 to 2.8 ± 2.01 (p = 0.08), depression scores from 6.2 ± 5.0 to 3.54 ± 2.5 (p < 0.001), and stress scores from 9.29 ± 4.45 to 4.9 ± 4.5 (p < 0.001). These findings underscore the importance of interventions supporting parents during challenging times, such as a global pandemic.
Association between malnutrition and post–acute COVID‐19 sequelae: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ponce Jana , Anzalone A. Jerrod , Schissel Makayla , Bailey Kristina , Sayles Harlan , Timmerman Megan , Jackson Mariah , Tefft Jonathan , Hanson Corrine ,   the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) Consortium
Published: June 2024

Background

Long coronavirus disease consists of health problems people experience after being infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). These can be severe and include respiratory, neurological, and gastrointestinal symptoms, with resulting detrimental impacts on quality of life. Although malnutrition has been shown to increase risk of severe disease and death during acute infection, less is known about its influence on post–acute COVID‐19 outcomes. We addressed this critical gap in knowledge by evaluating malnutrition's impact on post–COVID‐19 sequelae.

Methods

This study leveraged the National COVID Cohort Collaborative to identify a cohort of patients who were at least 28 days post–acute COVID‐19 infection. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models evaluated the impact of malnutrition on the following postacute sequelae of SARS‐CoV‐2: (1) death, (2) long COVID diagnosis, (3) COVID‐19 reinfection, and (4) other phenotypic abnormalities. A subgroup analysis evaluated these outcomes in a cohort of hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 with hospital‐acquired (HAC) malnutrition.

Results

The final cohort included 4,372,722 individuals, 78,782 (1.8%) with a history of malnutrition. Individuals with malnutrition had a higher risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 2.10; 95% CI: 2.04–2.17) and SARS‐CoV‐2 reinfection (aHR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.43–1.61) in the postacute period than those without malnutrition. In the subgroup, those with HAC malnutrition had a higher risk of death and long COVID diagnosis.

Conclusion

Nutrition screening for individuals with acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection may be a crucial step in mitigating life‐altering, negative postacute outcomes through early identification and intervention of patients with malnutrition.
Preloading peri‐implant crestal bone loss: A retrospective study of incidence and related factors
Authors: Vilela Nathalia , Gurgel Bruno C. V. , Bruzos Carlos De , Duarte Wagner R. , da Silva Hélio D. P. , Pannuti Claudio M. , Duarte Poliana Mendes
Published: June 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of preloading crestal bone loss (PLCBL) and to identify the patient‐related and implant‐related factors associated with PLCBL.

Methods

This retrospective cohort examined the dental records of patients who received at least one dental implant. PLCBL was defined as a reduction ⩾0.5 mm and severe PLCBL (primary variable) as a reduction ⩾1.5 mm in mesial and/or distal bone level, measured from the day of implant placement to uncovering or abutment installation/crown delivery. The incidence of PLCBL and patient and implant variables were recorded. Bivariate analysis and binary logistic regression identified factors associated with PLCBL ⩾0.5 mm and ⩾1.5 mm.

Results

A total of 746 dental implants placed in 361 patients from January 2011 to July 2021 was included in the analyses. Of the implants assessed, 24.4% (n = 182) exhibited PLCBL ⩾ 0.5 mm and 10.5% (n = 78) presented severe PLCBL (i.e., ⩾1.5 mm). Males (odds ratio [OR] = 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.11–3.07), patients with diabetes (OR = 3.33, 95% CI = 1.73–6.42), and those allergic to penicillin (OR = 3.13, 95% CI = 1.57–6.22) were more likely to experience severe PLCBL (p < 0.05). Implants placed in the anterior area (OR = 2.08, 95% CI = 1.16–3.73), with bone‐level platform‐abutment connection (OR = 4.73, 95% CI = 1.94–11.49) and inserted supracrestally (OR = 3.77, 95% CI = 1.84–7.72), presented a greater risk of developing severe PLCBL (p < 0.05). Implants placed in a previously grafted area presented a lower likelihood of developing severe PLCBL (OR = 0.489, 95% CI = 0.28–0.84).

Conclusion

The incidence of PLCBL ⩾ 0.5 mm and ⩾1.5 mm was 24.4% and 10.5%, respectively. Male sex, diabetes, allergy to penicillin, anterior location, bone‐level platform‐abutment connection, and supracrestal implant placement are potential risk factors for severe PLCBL. A previously grafted area is a potential protective factor.
Raman study of the conformational instability of a ferrocene molecule at high pressure: Influence of a crystal field
Authors: Meletov Konstantin
Published: June 2024

The Raman spectra of ferrocene crystals were measured at pressures up to 20 GPa, and an abnormally large bandwidth of intermolecular phonons at ambient pressure was found. With an increase in the pressure, the bandwidth increased to a maximum at ~2 GPa and then decreased to a minimum at ~4 GPa, which was equal to the pressure‐independent bandwidth of intramolecular phonons. The unusual behavior of the bandwidth was related to the instability of a ferrocene molecule caused by jumps between its D5d and D5h conformations. A decrease in the time of jumps between the conformations to the period of crystal lattice vibrations led to a loss of coherence and broadening of intermolecular phonon bands. The energy barrier between the conformations was determined to be ~17.6 meV/molecule under ambient conditions and 80 meV/molecule at 4.9 GPa. An increase in the barrier with pressure was due to the enhancement of the crystal field, which resulted in the inhibition of the jumps and the stabilization of the molecule in the D5d conformation.
Entrepreneurs' use of imagination in pivot decision: Toward a conceptual model
Authors: Gabay‐Mariani Laëtitia , Flechas Ximena Alejandra , Blank Tali Hadasa
Published: June 2024

The purpose of the paper is to open the black box of pivot decisions and to deepen our understanding of how entrepreneurs use their imagination in such a crucial moment of the entrepreneurial process. A pivot is a strategic decision made after a failure and challenges central assumptions about the entrepreneurial project. In turn, entrepreneurs can remain quite conservative in the generation of new options for their business and expose themselves to the risks of path dependency and escalation of commitment. Reconfiguring an initial idea requires specific cognitive skills and mechanisms. In this paper, we sketch a conceptual model explaining the relationships between creative, social, and practical imaginativeness and the generation of new business options, and how founders' cognitive mechanisms may moderate this relationship.
Inventory of Loranthaceae parasites of Bayangam fruit trees in West Cameroon
Authors: Azangue Gilles Jiope , Sonke Bonaventure , David Wauffo Fokom
Published: June 2024

Background

Loranthaceae parasitism is a limiting factor for crops as well as many other plant diseases and pests. The present study was conducted to make an inventory of Loranthaceae present on fruit trees species grown in the Bayangam locality. It also aimed to record the damage caused by these pests on the host plants. To achieve this, 40 transects of 100 m length and 50 m width were set up in the locality of Bayangam. Observations were made on the presence or absence of the parasites on the host plants, the number of Loranthaceae clumps carried by each parasitized tree, the taxon of the parasite, and the damage caused by the Loranthaceae on the host plants.

Results

The inventories identified six species of Loranthaceae belonging to four genera. These were Globimetula braunii, Globimetula dinklagei, Globimetula oreophila, Helixanthera mannii, Phragmanthera capitata, and Tapinanthus globiferus. Parasite densities varied among species and increased with the circumference of host plants. Globimetula braunii and Phragmanthera capitata were the most invasive species on host plants.

Conclusion

Fruit trees in Bayangam are largely parasitized by Loranthaceae. The only control method used by the populations is pruning of parasitized branches during drought periods. This method is not effective because of the large number of trees and branches parasitized. The identification of Loranthaceae‐resistant cultivars in fruit tree production is an interesting element in the perspective of control.
The effects of Mitragyna speciosa extracts on intestinal microbiota and their metabolites in vitro fecal fermentation
Authors: Pansai Nattha , Wungsintaweekul Juraithip , Wichienchot Santad
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) has a long history of traditional use. It contains various alkaloids and polyphenols. The properties of kratom's alkaloids have been well‐documented. However, the property of kratom's polyphenols in water‐soluble phase have been less frequently reported. This study assessed the effects of water‐soluble Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) extract (MSE) on gut microbiota and their metabolite production in fecal batch culture.

RESULTS

The water‐soluble kratom extract (MSE0) and the water‐soluble kratom extract after partial sugar removal (MSE50) both contained polyphenols, with total phenolic levels of 2037.91 ± 51.13 and 3997.95 ± 27.90 mg GAE/g extract, respectively and total flavonoids of 81.10 ± 1.00 and 84.60 ± 1.43 mg CEQ/g extract. The gut microbiota in fecal batch culture was identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing at 0 and 24 h of fermentation. After fermentation, MSE50 stimulated the growth of Bifidobacterium more than MSE0. MSE0 gave the highest total fatty acids level among the treatments. The phenolic metabolites produced by some intestinal microbiota during fecal fermentation at 24 h were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The major metabolite of biotransformation of both water‐soluble MSEs by intestinal microbiota was pyrocatechol (9.85–11.53%).

CONCLUSION

The water‐soluble MSEs and their produced metabolites could potentially be used as ingredients for functional and medicinal food production that supports specific gut microbiota. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Dendrobium officinale flos water extract ameliorates ethanol‐induced acute gastric mucosal injury via inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Fan Pinglong , Xie Shuchun , Zhang ZhiQian , Yuan Quan , He Jiajiang , Zhang Jie , Liu Xinyue , Liu Xiaoyi , Xu Lieqiang
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Dendrobium officinale flos (DOF), a novel food raw material, is used in Chinese folk medicine to nourish the stomach. However, there is still no available study to evaluate the effects of DOF on animal models of acute gastric injury and its mechanism by modern pharmacological research.

RESULTS

Herein, we characterized the major components of an aqueous extract of DOF and assessed its potential ameliorative effects in a rat model of acute gastric mucosal injury. The DOF water extract showed significant protective effects on the gastric mucosa and exhibited excellent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities. Acute gastric injury rat models induced by ethanol (6 mL kg−1) were pretreated with different doses of DOF water extract (50–100 mg kg−1 day−1), and the biological effects of DOF extract in gastric tissues were evaluated. DOF extract alleviated the symptoms of ethanol‐stimulated acute gastric mucosal injury, as evidenced by a significant reduction in gastric injury index and the degree of gastric pathological changes. Additionally, treatment with DOF extract upregulated mucin expression in the gastric mucosa, attenuated oxidative stress, decreased the release of inflammatory mediators (TNF‐α, IL‐6), suppressed the expression of key proinflammatory enzymes (COX‐2 and iNOS), reduced the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and p65 NF‐κB and increased the level of PGE2 in gastric tissues.

CONCLUSION

DOF exerts protective effects against ethanol‐induced acute gastric mucosal injury, mainly by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Fetal 24‐Segment Sphericity Index and Ventricular Fractional Shortening Between 12 and 20 Weeks of Gestation
Authors: Inamura Noboru , Machida Megumi , Nakamura Takako , Uenishi Kohtaro , Pooh Ritsuko K.
Published: June 2024

Background

Although the fetal sphericity index (SI) and fractional shortening (FS) of 24 transverse segments have been previously reported after the 20th gestational week, there have been no reports during the first and early second trimester.

Objective

This study aimed to clarify the SI and FS of 24 transverse segments in normal fetuses before the 20th gestational week.

Methods

A total of 101 normal fetuses aged between 12 and 20 gestational weeks were examined. The displacement of the ventricular endocardium during the cardiac cycle was computed using speckle‐tracking software (GE Healthcare, Milwaukee, WI). We analyzed the length of 24 end‐diastolic lateral segments and the end‐diastolic basal (seg1‐6)‐ middle (Seg7‐15)‐apical (Seg16‐24) distribution from the base to the apex of each ventricle, according to the method described by DeVore et al. The SI and FS were computed for each of the 24 segments by dividing the mid‐basal‐apical length by the transverse size.

Results

The SI for each segment was independent of the gestational age. The SI of the right ventricle was significantly lower than that of the left ventricle for segments 1–14, suggesting that the right ventricle was more spherical than the left ventricle in the basal segment only. The FS of the right ventricle was significantly lower than that of the left ventricle in segments 1 to 2 and 13 to 24.

Conclusion

The morphology of the ventricles before 20 weeks of gestation differs from that between 20 and 40 weeks of gestation. This difference may be related to myocardial densification or performance.
Augmented and Virtual Reality Applications in Rhinology: A Scoping Review
Authors: Edalati Shaun , Slobin Jacqueline , Harsinay Ariel , Vasan Vikram , Taha Mohamed A. , Del Signore Anthony , Govindaraj Satish , Iloreta Alfred Marc
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are innovative technologies that have a wide range of potential applications in the health care industry. The aim of this study was to investigate the body of research on AR and VR applications in rhinology by performing a scoping review.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, and Embase.

Review Methods

According to PRISM‐ScR guidelines, a scoping review of literature on the application of AR and/or VR in the context of Rhinology was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Embase.

Results

Forty‐nine articles from 1996 to 2023 met the criteria for review. Five broad types of AR and/or VR applications were found: preoperative, intraoperative, training/education, feasibility, and technical. The subsequent clinical domains were recognized: craniovertebral surgery, nasal endoscopy, transsphenoidal surgery, skull base surgery, endoscopic sinus surgery, and sinonasal malignancies.

Conclusion

AR and VR have comprehensive applications in Rhinology. AR for surgical navigation may have the most emerging potential in skull base surgery and endoscopic sinus surgery. VR can be utilized as an engaging training tool for surgeons and residents and as a distraction analgesia for patients undergoing office‐based procedures. Additional research is essential to further understand the tangible effects of these technologies on measurable clinical results. Laryngoscope, 134:4433–4440, 2024
T2 magnetic resonance imaging mapping and morphology of the median nerve before and after surgery in carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Kondo Harunori , Suzuki Taku , Hayakawa Katsuhiko , Maeda Atsushi , Funahashi Takuya , Kuroiwa Takashi , Kawano Yusuke , Iwamoto Takuji , Fujita Nobuyuki
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Aims

T2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) mapping has been applied to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) for quantitative assessment of the median nerve. However, quantitative changes in the median nerve before and after surgery using T2 MRI mapping remain unclear. We aimed to investigate whether pathological changes could be identified by pre‐ and postoperative T2 MRI mapping of the median nerve in CTS patients after open carpal tunnel release.

Methods

This was a prospective study that measured median nerve T2 and cross‐sectional area (CSA) values at the distal carpal tunnel, hamate bone, proximal carpal tunnel, and forearm levels pre‐ and postoperatively. Associations between T2, CSA, and nerve conduction latency were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 36 patients with CTS (mean age, 64.5 ± 11.7 years) who underwent surgery were studied. The mean preoperative T2 values significantly decreased from 56.3 to 46.9 ms at the proximal carpal tunnel levels (p = .001), and from 52.4 to 48.7 ms at the hamate levels postoperatively (p = .04). Although there was a moderate association between preoperative T2 values at the distal carpal tunnel levels and distal motor latency values (r = −.46), other T2 values at all four carpal tunnel levels were not significantly associated with CSA or nerve conduction latency pre‐ or postoperatively.

Discussion

T2 MRI mapping of the carpal tunnel suggested a decrease in nerve edema after surgery. T2 MRI mapping provides quantitative information on the median nerve before and after surgery.
Development of a major histocompatibility complex class II conditional knockout mouse to study cell‐specific and time‐dependent adaptive immune responses in peripheral nerves
Authors: Ubogu Eroboghene E. , Conner Jeremy A. , Wang Yimin , Yadav Dinesh , Saunders Thomas L.
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Aims

The precise relationship between molecular mimicry and tissue‐specific autoimmunity is unknown. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II antigen presenting cell‐CD4+ T‐cell receptor complex interactions are necessary for adaptive immunity. This study aimed to determine the role of endoneurial endothelial cell MHC class II in autoimmune polyneuropathy.

Methods

Cryopreserved Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) patient sural nerve biopsies and sciatic nerves from the severe murine experimental autoimmune neuritis (sm‐EAN) GBS model were studied. Cultured conditional ready MHC Class II antigen A‐alpha chain (H2‐Aa) embryonic stem cells were used to generate H2‐Aaflox/+ C57BL/6 mice. Mice were backcrossed and intercrossed to the SJL background to generate H2‐Aaflox/flox SJL mice, bred with hemizygous Tamoxifen‐inducible von Willebrand factor Cre recombinase (vWF‐iCre/+) SJL mice to generate H2‐Aaflox/flox; vWF‐iCre/+ mice to study microvascular endothelial cell adaptive immune responses. Sm‐EAN was induced in Tamoxifen‐treated H2‐Aaflox/flox; vWF‐iCre/+, H2‐Aaflox/flox; +/+, H2‐Aa+/+; vWF‐iCre/+ and untreated H2‐Aaflox/flox; vWF‐iCre/+ adult female SJL mice. Neurobehavioral, electrophysiological and histopathological assessments were performed at predefined time points.

Results

Endoneurial endothelial cell MHC class II expression was observed in normal and inflamed human and mouse peripheral nerves. Tamoxifen‐treated H2‐Aaflox/flox; vWF‐iCre/+ mice were resistant to sm‐EAN despite extensive MHC class II expression in lymphoid and non‐lymphoid tissues.

Discussion

A conditional MHC class II knockout mouse to study cell‐ and time‐dependent adaptive immune responses in vivo was developed. Initial studies show microvascular endothelial cell MHC class II expression is necessary for peripheral nerve specific autoimmunity, as advocated by human in vitro adaptive immunity and ex vivo transplant rejection studies.
Finite element analysis with deformed shape constraints generated by laser‐scanned point clouds
Authors: Haraki Hibiya , Yusa Yasunori , Masuda Hiroshi
Published: June 2024

This article proposes a computational method for finite element analysis with deformed shape constraints for analyzing constructed structures to account for deformations that occur before shape measurement by a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS). In this method, point clouds obtained by a TLS are considered as a partial surface of the deformed structure. An analysis model is assumed to be created from CAD data or drawings. The analysis is performed under deformed shape constraints, namely, the deformed surface constraints or the normal vector constraints, which are generated by the point clouds. These constraints are introduced to reproduce the current displacements and stresses for the structure through the analysis. This method was applied to analyses of a plate and a desk using point clouds, which were created virtually on a computer or obtained by a TLS in the numerical examples. The results showed that this method can consider unexpected deformations that occur before laser scanning. Although the computed stresses oscillated when the scanned point cloud was used due to measurement errors and conventional point cloud processing methods, the stress values were responsive enough to indicate unnatural shapes of the deformed structure. Moreover, the oscillation was observed only in areas with constraints, whereas it was not seen in areas without constraints.
High‐performance electromagnetic shielding composite materials based on carbon nanotubes and Sandwich laminate structures
Authors: Wu Jiangxing , Gao Yantao
Published: June 2024

Carbon fiber‐reinforced composite materials exhibit excellent mechanical and electromagnetic shielding capabilities. However, they have some drawbacks, such as high cost and significant reflection losses. In order to address these shortcomings, this study set out to design a sandwich‐structured composite material and produce a composite material designed for electromagnetic shielding using Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) technology. This composite material promotes the “absorption‐reflection‐reabsorption” process of electromagnetic waves, significantly enhancing its shielding effectiveness, achieving up to 59.4 dB of shielding effect in the 8.2–12.4 GHz (X‐band) range. The study also employed carbon nanotubes (CNTs) matrix doping to modify the composite material, significantly reducing reflection losses. When the amount of carbon nanotubes added reaches 0.6 wt%, the overall SE can be increased by 18%. Additionally, the introduction of CNTs significantly improves the flexural strength and tensile strength of the composite material; at a 0.6 wt% CNT content, the average tensile strength increased from 526.4 to 600.9 MPa, indicating good interfacial interactions between CNTs and epoxy resin. This work provides valuable insights for the preparation of high‐performance electromagnetic shielding materials, with profound theoretical and practical significance.

Highlights

Observations through SEM and CT scanning techniques reveal that Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) technology facilitates strong interlayer bonding between carbon fibers, glass fibers, and copper wires, alongside effective epoxy resin adhesion, thus enhancing the mechanical properties.

The sandwich structure's impedance mismatch characteristic facilitates an efficient “absorption‐reflection‐reabsorption” process of electromagnetic waves. Additionally, the incorporation of Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) enhances the absorption mechanism, reducing reflection losses.

Incorporating CNTs further boosts both flexural and tensile strengths, attributed to improved interfacial interactions inhibiting crack formation.
Discovery of pathogenic variants in EFEMP2 and RAG1 and undetectable fetal phenotype: A challenge of prenatal exome sequencing
Authors: Favier Maud , Dard Rodolph , Gorincour Guillaume , Tessier Aude , Motte‐Signoret Emmanuelle , Duvillier Clemence , Racine Caroline , Faivre Laurence , Thauvin‐Robinet Christel , Mau‐Them Frédéric Tran
Published: June 2024

Background

Exome sequencing in prenatal context confronts with pathogenic variants associated with phenotypes that are not detectable prenatally.

Materials and Methods

A consanguineous couple was referred at 24 weeks of gestation for prenatal genetic investigations after ultrasonography findings including decreased fetal movements, hypoplastic male external genitalia, retrognathia, prefrontal edema, anomalies of the great vessels with pulmonary atresia and dilated tortuous aorta.

Result

Prenatal trio exome sequencing identified two homozygous likely pathogenic variants, i.e. a missense in EFEMP2 involved in cutis laxa and a nonsense in RAG1 involved in several types of severe combined immunodeficiency.

Discussion

The fetal ultrasonographic phenotype was partially compatible with previously reported prenatal presentations secondary to EFEMP2 biallelic variants, but prenatal presentations have never been reported for RAG1 related disorders because the RAG1 phenotype is undetectable during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Both EFEMP2 and RAG1 variants were disclosed to the couple because the EFEMP2 variant was considered causative for the fetal ultrasonographic phenotype and the RAG1 variant was considered a finding of strong interest for genetic counselling and monitoring of future pregnancies following the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics recommendations about the discovery of incidental findings in fetal exome sequencing in prenatal diagnosis.
International students' intercultural sensitivity and academic adaptation in Chinese universities: The mediating role of general health
Authors: Takyi Mensah Elijah , Chen Mingkun , Ntim Seth Yeboah , Shen Tingyu , Asanga Arnold Amasiya , Aboagye Michael Osei , Gabrah Antoinette Yaa Benewaa
Published: June 2024

The quest to flourish academically and acquire skills needed for job opportunities has brought people from different cultures and countries to closely interact. Using Vygotsky's sociocultural theory, this study examines the relationship between international students' intercultural sensitivity and academic adaptation and the mediating role of general health. A one‐way analysis of variance and structural equation model were conducted to assess the differences and relationships between the constructs, utilizing 338 respondents. The findings showed that male, doctoral, and English‐taught students reported significantly higher academic adaptation. Students who have no or less COVID‐19 related issues reported higher general health. Further, the regression results revealed that intercultural sensitivity is related to academic adaptation, and general health partially mediated the intercultural sensitivity and academic adaptation relationship. These findings demonstrate that intercultural sensitivity nurtures students' self‐esteem and mental toughness, which allow them to reap good health outcomes that impact academic adaptation. The practical implications and limitations of the study have been discussed.
School adjustment scale for high school students: Development and initial validation
Authors: Kaynak Semih , Kan Adnan
Published: June 2024

Although research has consistently highlighted the importance of school adjustment for high school students, validated tools for assessing this construct are currently lacking. To address this gap, our study aimed to develop and validate a scale to measure school adjustment among high school students. Employing a two‐stage approach, we first examined the concept of adjustment and generated scale items. Subsequently, we surveyed 1121 high school students, and randomly split the data into two groups for subsequent analyses. Through exploratory in the first stage and confirmatory factor analyses in the second stage, we identified two higher‐order factors within the scale: social adjustment and academic adjustment, with academic adjustment consisting of two sub‐factors, academic performance and, academic engagement. The results indicated that the scale has an excellent model fit, as well as adequate reliability and high construct validity. Overall, our study provides a valuable tool for assessing school adjustment in high school students.
The detection rate for prostate cancer in systematic and targeted prostate biopsy in biopsy‐naive patients, according to the localization of the lesion at the mpMRI: A single‐center retrospective observational study
Authors: Massanova Matteo , Barone Biagio , Caputo Vincenzo Francesco , Napolitano Luigi , Ponsiglione Andrea , Del Giudice Francesco , Ferro Matteo , Lucarelli Giuseppe , Lasorsa Francesco , Busetto Gian Maria , Robertson Sophie , Trama Francesco , Imbimbo Ciro , Crocetto Felice
Published: June 2024

Objective

Evaluate the detection rates of systematic, targeted and combined cores at biopsy according to tumor positions in biopsy‐naïve patients.

Material and Methods

A retrospective analysis of a single‐center patient cohort (n = 501) that underwent transrectal prostate biopsy between January 2017 and December 2019 was performed. Multi‐parametric MRI was executed as a prebiopsy investigation. Biopsy protocol included, for each patient, 12 systematic cores plus 3 to 5 targeted cores per lesion identified at the mpMRI. Pearson and McNemar chi‐squared tests were used for statistical analysis to compare tumor location‐related detection rates of systematic, targeted and combined (systematic + targeted) cores at biopsy.

Results

Median age of patients was 70 years (IQR 62–72), with a median PSA of 8.5 ng/ml (IQR 5.7–15.6). Positive biopsies were obtained in 67.7% of cases. Overall, targeted cores obtained higher detection rates compared to systematic cores (54.3% vs. 43.1%, p < 0.0001). Differences in detection rates were, however, higher for tumors located at the apex (61.1% vs. 26.3%, p < 0.05) and anteriorly (44.4% vs. 19.3%, p < 0.05). Targeted cores similarly obtained higher detection rates in the posterior zone of the prostate gland for clinically significant prostate cancer. A poor agreement was reported between targeted and systematic cores for the apex and anterior zone of the prostate with, respectively κ = 0.028 and κ = −0.018.

Conclusion

A combined approach of targeted and systematic biopsy delivers the highest detection rate in prostate cancer (PCa). The location of the tumor could however greatly influence overall detection rates, indicating the possibility to omit (as for the base or posterior zone of the gland) or add (as for the apex or anterior zone of the gland) further targeted cores.
Natural history of histologically benign PIRADS 4–5 lesions in multiparametric MRI: Real‐life experience in an academic center
Authors: Madendere Serdar , Kilic Mert , Zoroglu Hatice , Sarikaya Ahmet Furkan , Veznikli Mert , Coskun Bilgen , Armutlu Ayse , Kulac Ibrahim , Gürses Bengi , Kiremit Murat Can , Baydar Dilek Ertoy , Canda Abdullah Erdem , Balbay Mevlana Derya , Vural Metin , Kordan Yakup , Esen Tarik
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The follow‐up findings of patients who underwent prostate biopsy for prostate image reporting and data system (PIRADS) 4 or 5 multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) findings and had benign histology were retrospectively reviewed.

Methods

There were 190 biopsy‐naive patients. Patients with at least 12 months of follow‐up between 2012 and 2023 were evaluated. All MRIs were interpreted by two very experienced uroradiologists. Of the patients, 125 had either cognitive or software fusion MR‐targeted biopsies with 4 + 8/10 cores. The remaining 65 patients had in‐bore biopsies with 4–5 cores. Prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels below 4 ng/mL were defined as PSA regression following biopsy. PIRADS 1–3 lesions on new MRI images were classified as MRI regression.

Results

Median patient age and PSA were 62 (39–82) years and six (0.4–33) ng/mL, respectively, at the initial work‐up. During a median follow‐up period of 44 months, 37 (19.4%) patients were lost to follow‐up. Of the remaining 153 patients, 82 (53.6%) had persistently high PSA. Among them, 72 (87.8%) had repeat mpMRI within 6–24 months which showed regressive findings (PIRADS 1–3) in 53 patients (73.6%) and PIRADS 4–5 index lesion persistence in 19 cases (26.4%). The latter group was recommended to have rebiopsy. Of these 19 patients, 16 underwent MRI‐targeted rebiopsy. Prostate cancer was diagnosed in six (37.5%) patients and of these four (25%) were clinically significant (>Grade Group 1). Totally, clinically significant prostate cancer was detected in 4/153 (2.6%) patients followed up.

Conclusion

Patients should be warned against the relative relaxing effect of a negative biopsy after identification of PIRADS 4–5 index lesion. While PSA decrease was observed in many patients during follow‐up, persistent MRI findings were present in nearly a quarter of patients with persistently high PSA. A rebiopsy is warranted in these patients, with significant prostate cancer diagnosed in a quarter of patients with rebiopsy.
microRNA‐8514‐5p regulates adipokinetic hormone/corazonin‐related peptide receptor to affect development and reproduction of Plutella xylostella
Authors: Pang Senbo , Wang Shuo , Asad Muhammad , Yu Jiajing , Lin Guifang , Chen Jinzhi , Sun Cuiying , Huang Pengrong , Chang Yanpeng , Wei Hui , Yang Guang
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Dicer1 plays a crucial role in regulating the development and reproduction of insects. Knockout of Dicer1 causes pupal deformity, low eclosion and low fecundity in Plutella xylostella, but the mechanism behind this phenomenon is not clear. This study aims to identify differentially‐expressed genes and miRNAs in the Dicer1‐knockout strain (ΔPxDcr‐1) and assess their impact on the reproduction and development of P. xylostella.

RESULTS

The knockout of Dicer1 affected the expression of genes including the adipokinetic hormone/corazonin‐related peptide receptor (PxACPR). The expression of PxACPR was upregulated, and the expression of miR‐8514‐5p was downregulated in ΔPxDcr‐1 of P. xylostella. The dual luciferase reporter assay and pull‐down assay showed that miR‐8514‐5p bound to PxACPR in vitro and in vivo. The expression profiles demonstrated a negative correlation between PxACPR mRNA and miR‐8514‐5p in different developmental stages of the wild‐type strain. Both the miR‐8514‐5p agomir and double‐stranded RNA of ACPR (dsPxACPR) injected into the pre‐pupae inhibited the mRNA level of PxACPR, causing high mortality and deformity of pupae, and low fecundity and hatching rate, which were consistent with the phenotype of ΔPxDcr‐1. The injection of miR‐8514‐5p antagomir caused a similar phenotype to the injection of miR‐8514‐5p agomir. Additionally, the injection of miR‐8514‐5p antagomir significantly rescued the phenotype caused by dsPxACPR.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that miR‐8514‐5p affects the development and reproduction of P. xylostella by regulating PxACPR, and the homeostasis of PxACPR expression is essential for the development and reproduction of P. xylostella. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Combining data on the bioavailability of midazolam and physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modeling to investigate intestinal CYP3A4 ontogeny
Authors: Johnson Trevor N. , Batchelor Hannah K. , Goelen Jan , Horniblow Richard D. , Dinh Jean
Published: June 2024

Pediatric physiologically‐based modeling in drug development has grown in the past decade and optimizing the underlying systems parameters is important in relation to overall performance. In this study, variation of clinical oral bioavailability of midazolam as a function of age is used to assess the underlying ontogeny models for intestinal CYP3A4. Data on midazolam bioavailability in adults and children and different ontogeny patterns for intestinal CYP3A4 were first collected from the literature. A pediatric PBPK model was then used to assess six different ontogeny models in predicting bioavailability from preterm neonates to adults. The average fold error ranged from 0.7 to 1.38, with the rank order of least to most biased model being No Ontogeny < Upreti = Johnson < Goelen < Chen < Kiss. The absolute average fold error ranged from 1.17 to 1.64 with the rank order of most to least precise being Johnson > Upreti > No Ontogeny > Goelen > Kiss > Chen. The optimal ontogeny model is difficult to discern when considering the possible influence of CYP3A5 and other population variability; however, this study suggests that from term neonates and older a faster onset Johnson model with a lower fraction at birth may be close to this. For inclusion in other PBPK models, independent verification will be needed to confirm these results. Further research is needed in this area both in terms of age‐related changes in midazolam and similar drug bioavailability and intestinal CYP3A4 ontogeny.
Nonlinear and Optical Limiting Properties of Graphene–Ferrite Nanocomposites: A Review
Authors: Saravanan M.
Published: June 2024

With a specific focus on graphene‐ferrite nanocomposites, this comprehensive review provides insight into their nonlinear and optical limiting features. The intriguing combination of graphene electronic structure and the versatility of ferrites results in a diverse range of composites materials with exceptional properties. This unique synergy opens up numerous practical applications across different sectors. The review article, which primarily focuses on recent advances in research, delves into the structural characteristics and attributes of these hybrids, highlighting their behavior in nonlinear refraction, nonlinear absorption, and optical limiting. Further, the explorations of cutting‐edge strategies for the development of wavelength and intensity‐dependent optical limiters are detailed. Additionally, this review emphasizes the challenges that still need to be overcome to fully utilize graphene–ferrite composites in nonlinear optical process and optical limiting.
A narrative review on the mechanism of natural flavonoids in improving glucolipid metabolism disorders
Authors: Niu Wenjing , Feng Yongshi , Peng Minwen , Cai Jinyan
Published: June 2024

Glucolipid metabolism disorder (GLMD) is a complex chronic disease characterized by glucose and lipid metabolism disorders with a complex and diverse etiology and rapidly increasing incidence. Many studies have identified the role of flavonoids in ameliorating GLMD, with mechanisms related to peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors, nuclear factor kappa‐B, AMP‐activated protein kinase, nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2, glucose transporter type 4, and phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase/protein kinase B pathway. However, a comprehensive summary of the flavonoid effects on GLMD is lacking. This study reviewed the roles and mechanisms of natural flavonoids with different structures in the treatment of GLMD reported globally in the past 5 years and provides a reference for developing flavonoids as drugs for treating GLMD.
A perfectly imperfect engine: Utilizing the digital twin paradigm in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Walker Melody , Moore Helen , Ataya Ali , Pham Ann , Corris Paul A. , Laubenbacher Reinhard , Bryant Andrew J.
Published: June 2024

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a severe medical condition with a number of treatment options, the majority of which are introduced without consideration of the underlying mechanisms driving it within an individual and thus a lack of tailored approach to treatment. The one exception is a patient presenting with apparent pulmonary arterial hypertension and shown to have vaso‐responsive disease, whose clinical course and prognosis is significantly improved by high dose calcium channel blockers. PH is however characterized by a relative abundance of available data from patient cohorts, ranging from molecular data characterizing gene and protein expression in different tissues to physiological data at the organ level and clinical information. Integrating available data with mechanistic information at the different scales into computational models suggests an approach to a more personalized treatment of the disease using model‐based optimization of interventions for individual patients. That is, constructing digital twins of the disease, customized to a patient, promises to be a key technology for personalized medicine, with the aim of optimizing use of existing treatments and developing novel interventions, such as new drugs. This article presents a perspective on this approach in the context of a review of existing computational models for different aspects of the disease, and it lays out a roadmap for a path to realizing it.
Maximal entropy prior for the simple step‐stress accelerated test
Authors: Moala Fernando Antonio , Chagas Karlla Delalibera
Published: June 2024

The step‐stress procedure is a popular accelerated test used to analyze the lifetime of highly reliable components. This paper considers a simple step‐stress accelerated test assuming a cumulative exposure model with uncensored lifetime data following a Weibull distribution. The maximum likelihood approach is often used to analyze accelerated stress test data. Another approach is to use the Bayesian inference, which is useful when there is limited data available. In this paper, the parameters of the model are estimated based on the objective Bayesian viewpoint using non‐informative priors. Our main aim is to propose the maximal data information prior (MDIP) presented by Zellner (1984) as an alternative prior to the conventional independent gamma priors for the unknown parameters, in situations where there is little or no a priori knowledge about the parameters. We also obtain the Bayes estimators based on both classes of priors, assuming three different loss functions: square error loss function (SELF), linear‐exponential loss function (LINEX), and generalized entropy loss function (GELF). The proposed MDIP prior is compared with the gamma priors via Monte Carlo simulations by examining their biases and mean square errors under the three loss functions, and coverage probability. Additionally, we employ the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm to extract characteristics of marginal posterior distributions, such as the Bayes estimator and credible intervals. Finally, a real lifetime data is presented to illustrate the proposed methodology.
Distributed coordinated speed control of flywheel energy storage matrix systems with model uncertainties and disturbances
Authors: Wei Bo , Chen Chuangui , Xiao Feng , Hong Feng
Published: June 2024

This paper studies a coordinated rotor speed control of flywheel energy storage matrix systems (FESMS) in the presence of model uncertainties and unknown disturbances. We consider the scenarios that the torque variation during the operation of flywheel energy storage system (FESS) cannot be accurately measured and the coordinated operation of FESMS is realized without the measurements of accurate rotor speeds. We design a distributed extended state observer (ESO) only using local rotor position measurements to estimate the rotor speeds and unknown disturbances. Based on the estimated states, a coordinated control strategy with the compensation of model uncertainties and unknown disturbances is proposed. The proposed control strategy has the advantage of speed‐free feature and active disturbance rejection. By using Lyapunov stability theory, sufficient conditions are given to ensure that the FESMS can achieve the reference tracking. The performance of the control strategy is verified by simulations.