bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interplay between altered metabolism and DNA damage and repair in ovarian cancer
Authors: Uboveja Apoorva , Aird Katherine M.
Published: June 2024

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy and is often associated with both DNA repair deficiency and extensive metabolic reprogramming. While still emerging, the interplay between these pathways can affect ovarian cancer phenotypes, including therapeutic resistance to the DNA damaging agents that are standard‐of‐care for this tumor type. In this review, we will discuss what is currently known about cellular metabolic rewiring in ovarian cancer that may impact DNA damage and repair in addition to highlighting how specific DNA repair proteins also promote metabolic changes. We will also discuss relevant data from other cancers that could be used to inform ovarian cancer therapeutic strategies. Changes in the choice of DNA repair mechanism adopted by ovarian cancer are a major factor in promoting therapeutic resistance. Therefore, the impact of metabolic reprogramming on DNA repair mechanisms in ovarian cancer has major clinical implications for targeted combination therapies for the treatment of this devastating disease.
Assessment of post‐SARS‐CoV‐2 fatigue among physicians working in COVID‐designated hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan A. T. M. Hasibul , Khan Nusrat , Munna Nazmul Hoque , Choton Wahidur Rahman , Arefin Mostofa Kamal , Khan Mohammad Abdullah Az Zubayer , Mansur Mohaimen , Hassan Rashedul , Arefin Muhammad Shamsul , Afroze Nayema , Nuzhat Elham , Islam Muhammad Sougatul
Published: June 2024

Background

Fatigue has been observed after the outbreaks of several infectious diseases around the world. To explore the fatigue level among physicians working in COVID‐19‐designated hospitals in Bangladesh, a matched case‒control study was conducted on post‐SARS‐CoV‐2 fatigue.

Method

In this study, 105 physicians diagnosed with COVID‐19 who were declared cured at least 6 weeks before the interview date were recruited as cases, and the same number of age‐ and designation‐matched healthy physicians were recruited as controls from the same hospital at a 1:1 ratio. Diagnosis of COVID‐19 infection was confirmed by detection of SARS CoV‐2 antigen by RT‒PCR from reference laboratories in Bangladesh or by HRCT chest.

Result

Approximately two‐thirds of the physicians were male (67.6% vs. 32.4%). More than 80% of them were younger than 40 years. The cases had a significantly greater number of comorbid conditions. The fatigue severity scale (FSS) score (mean) was much higher for cases (36.7 ± 5.3 vs. 19.3 ± 3.8) than for the control group, with a statistically significant difference. Similarly, approximately 67.7% of the previously COVID‐19‐positive physicians were in the highest FSS score tertile compared to the respondents in the control group, who had a mean score of <3.

Conclusion

Physicians who had a previous history of COVID‐19 infection had significantly higher total and mean FSS scores, signifying a more severe level of fatigue than physicians who had never been COVID‐19 positive while working in the same hospital irrespective of their age and sex.
Elucidating the pivotal molecular mechanisms, therapeutic and neuroprotective effects of lithium in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Richard Seidu A.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to damage to brain tissue by mechanical or blunt force via trauma. TBI is often associated with impaired cognitive abilities, like difficulties in memory, learning, attention, and other higher brain functions, that typically remain for years after the injury. Lithium is an elementary light metal that is only utilized in salt form due to its high intrinsic reactivity. This current review discusses the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic and neuroprotective effects of lithium in TBI.

Method

The “Boolean logic” was used to search for articles on the subject matter in PubMed and PubMed Central, as well as Google Scholar.

Results

Lithium's therapeutic action is extremely complex, involving multiple effects on gene secretion, neurotransmitter or receptor‐mediated signaling, signal transduction processes, circadian modulation, as well as ion transport. Lithium is able to normalize multiple short‐ as well as long‐term modifications in neuronal circuits that ultimately result in disparity in cortical excitation and inhibition activated by TBI. Also, lithium levels are more distinct in the hippocampus, thalamus, neo‐cortex, olfactory bulb, amygdala as well as the gray matter of the cerebellum following treatment of TBI.

Conclusion

Lithium attenuates neuroinflammation and neuronal toxicity as well as protects the brain from edema, hippocampal neurodegeneration, loss of hemispheric tissues, and enhanced memory as well as spatial learning after TBI.
Fast constrained optimization for cloth simulation parameters from static drapes
Authors: Ju Eunjung , Shim Eungjune , Kim Kwang‐yun , Yoon Sungjin , Choi Myung Geol
Published: June 2024

We present a cloth simulation parameter estimation method that integrates the flexibility of global optimization with the speed of neural networks. While global optimization allows for varied designs in objective functions and specifying the range of optimization variables, it requires thousands of objective function evaluations. Each evaluation, which involves a cloth simulation, is computationally demanding and impractical time‐wise. On the other hand, neural network learning methods offer quick estimation results but face challenges such as the need for data collection, re‐training when input data formats change, and difficulties in setting constraints on variable ranges. Our proposed method addresses these issues by replacing the simulation process, typically necessary for objective function evaluations in global optimization, with a neural network for inference. We demonstrate that, once an estimation model is trained, optimization for various objective functions becomes straightforward. Moreover, we illustrate that it is possible to achieve optimization results that reflect the intentions of expert users through visualization of a wide optimization space and the use of range constraints.
Dopamine receptor agonist cabergoline promotes immunogenic phenotype in human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells
Authors: Naseri Bahar , Masoumi Javad , Abdolzadeh Samin , Abedimanesh Saba , Baghbani Elham , Hatami‐Sadr Amirhossein , Heris Javad Ahmadian , Shanehbandi Dariush , Akbari Morteza , Vaysi Somayeh , Alizadeh Nazila , Baradaran Behzad
Published: June 2024

Dendritic cells (DCs) are known as antigen‐presenting cells that are capable of regulating immune responses. DCs and T cells can interact mutually to induce antigen‐specific T‐cell responses. Cabergoline, which is a dopamine (DA) receptor agonist, seems to implement anti‐inflammatory properties in the immune system, and therefore in the present study the impact of a DA receptor agonist cabergoline on the monocyte‐derived DCs (moDCs) was assessed. Immature moDCs were treated with lipopolysaccharide to produce mature DCs (mDCs). The expression of DCs' related surface markers namely: CD11c, HLA‐DR, and CD86 was measured by utilizing of flow cytometry. Real‐time PCR was the technique of choice to determine the levels at which diverse inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory factors in cabergoline‐treated and control mDC groups were expressed. DCs treated with cabergoline displayed a significant decrease in CD86 and HLA‐DR expression, markers linked to maturation and antigen presentation, respectively. In addition, the cabergoline‐mDC group showed a considerable decline in terms of the levels at which IL‐10, TGF‐β, and IDO genes were expressed, and an increase in the expression of TNF‐α and IL‐12 in comparison to the mDC control group. Our findings revealed that cabergoline as an immunomodulatory agent can relatively shift DCs into an immunogenic state, and there is a requirement for further investigations to evaluate the effects of cabergoline‐treated DCs on the T cell responses in vitro, and also in various diseases including cancer in animal models.
Meta‐analysis of the prevalence of attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder in prison: A comment on Fazel and Favril (2024) and reanalysis of the data
Authors: Baggio Stéphanie , Efthimiou Orestis
Published: June 2024

Background

Fazel and Favril presented a reanalysis of our previously published systematic review and meta‐analysis on the prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in prison.

Aims

The current paper addresses some of the criticisms of Fazel and Favril on our meta‐analysis and presents a reanalysis of the data, focusing on adult detained persons.

Methods

We conducted a meta—regression on 28 studies (n = 7710) to estimae the pooled prevalence of ADHD.

Results

This reanalysis yielded a pooled estimate of 22.2% for the prevalence of ADHD (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.7; 28.6), which disagrees with the estimate given by Fazel and Favril (8.3%, 95% CI: 3.8; 12.8).

Conclusion

We argue that the ADHD prevalence provided by Fazel and Favril was an underestimate due to their use of too restrictive exclusion criteria and suboptimal analysis methods. Our reanalysis on detained adults suggests a higher ADHD prevalence, which highlights the need to diagnose and treat ADHD in prison.
Broadening the Substrate Scope of a Polyphosphate Kinase for Canonical and Non‐Canonical Nucleotides
Authors: Querengässer Toni , Wenzlaff Jessica , Loderer Christoph
Published: June 2024

Polyphosphate kinases (PPKs) are valuable biocatalysts for ATP cofactor regeneration as well as for the phosphorylation of non‐canonical nucleotides. The versatility of PPKs in the latter application is defined by their substrate scope. In this study, we investigate the substrate spectrum of the PPK2‐III enzyme from Meiothermus ruber (MrPPK) for the conversion of canonical and non‐canonical (deoxy)‐ribonucleotides. The enzyme shows high substrate promiscuity for purine and to minor degree pyrimidine substrates, with an overall preference for the native substrate AMP. With structure guided rational amino acid exchanges in the active site, we produced an MrPPK variant with improved activity for a broad variety of purine nucleotides. While the preference for AMP is lost, conversion of nucleotides without a 6‐amino function at the purine moiety is increased. This MrPPK variant is a versatile biocatalyst for the synthesis of non‐canonical nucleotides and could also be useful as a GTP cofactor regeneration system.
Spirituality in marriage, couple, and family counseling programs
Authors: Roach Leila , Sierra Jose Javier
Published: June 2024

An increased emphasis on the importance of including spirituality and religion in counseling places systemic family therapists in a unique position due to their relational focus. However, research indicates a lack of graduate training to ensure competence in addressing this dimension. This article offers possibilities for integrating spiritual and religious issues into existing marriage, couple, and family graduate courses.
Supramolecular Hydrogels for 3D Biosensors and Bioassays
Authors: Gagni Paola , Lodigiani Giulia , Frigerio Roberto , Cretich Marina , Gori Alessandro , Bergamaschi Greta
Published: June 2024

Supramolecular hydrogels play a pivotal role in many fields of biomedical research, including emerging applications in designing advanced tools for point‐of‐care testing, clinical diagnostics, and lab‐on‐chip analysis. This review outlines the growing relevance of supramolecular hydrogels in biosensing and bioassay devices, highlighting recent advancements that deliver increased sensitivity, real‐time monitoring, and multiplexing capabilities through the distinctive properties of these nanomaterials. Furthermore, the exploration extends to additional applications, such as using hydrogels as three‐dimensional matrices for cell‐based assays.
Selective Electrochemical Oxygen Reduction to Hydrogen Peroxide by Confinement of Cobalt Porphyrins in a Metal‐Organic Framework
Authors: Rademaker Dana , Tanase Stefania , Kang Hongrui , Hofmann Jan P. , Hetterscheid Dennis G. H.
Published: June 2024

Sustainable alternatives for the energy intensive synthesis of H2O2 are necessary. Molecular cobalt catalysts show potential but are typically restricted by undesired bimolecular pathways leading to the breakdown of both H2O2 and the catalyst. The confinement of cobalt porphyrins in the PCN‐224 metal‐organic framework leads to an enhanced selectivity towards H2O2 and stability of the catalyst. Consequently, oxygen can now be selectively reduced to hydrogen peroxide with a stable conversion for at least 5 h, illustrating the potential of catalysts confined in MOFs to increase the selectivity and stability of electrocatalytic conversions.
PROTOCOL: Effectiveness of behavioral interventions for smoking cessation among homeless persons: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dai Runjing , Feng Tiantian , Ma Xiaoting , Cao Juan , Yang Kehu , Fan Jingchun
Published: June 2024

This is the protocol for an updated Campbell systematic review. The objectives are as follows: To evaluate the effect of behavioral interventions on smoking cessation among homeless individuals.
Diarylformamides as a Safe Reservoir and Room Temperature Source of Ultra‐Pure CO in the Context of a ‘Green’ rWGS Reaction
Authors: Hurtado Royel , Lou Lisha , Klerner Lukas , Inaloo Iman Dindarloo , Heineman Frank W. , Harder Sjoerd , Schmid Günter , Dorta Romano
Published: June 2024

Diphenylformamide 1 and bisformamide 9 are shown to be safe reservoirs and sources of CO. Their perfectly selective decarbonylations are achieved in solution at room temperature with potassium and cesium diarylamide catalysts. 1 is obtained in excellent yields directly from triethylammonium formate, which may be the product of CO2 scrubbing with NEt3 and catalytic hydrogenation. 1 thus represents a key intermediate in a low‐temperature rWGS reaction sequence. Moreover, solvent‐free decarbonylations of 1 may be run either in the melt at 70 °C or with 9 even in the solid state at 88 °C with improved atom economy. These simple and practical transition‐metal‐free decarbonylations afford ultra‐pure (i. e. dry and solvent‐free) CO at moderate temperatures and the diarylamines byproducts are recycled as pure compounds. In the absence of catalysts, diarylformamides 1 and 9 are long‐term stable at >200 °C. DFT‐calculations indicate a reaction pathway with a rate‐determining deprotonation of Ph2NC(O)H and barrier‐free CO elimination from Ph2NC(O)−.
Advancing Lignocellulosic Biomass Fractionation through Molten Salt Hydrates: Catalyst‐Enhanced Pretreatment for Sustainable Biorefineries
Authors: Freitas Paiva Mateus , Sadula Sunitha , Vlachos Dionisios G. , Wojcieszak Robert , Vanhove Guillaume , Bellot Noronha Fábio
Published: June 2024

Developing a process that performs the lignocellulosic biomass fractionation under milder conditions simultaneously with the depolymerization and/or the upgrading of all fractions is fundamental for the economic viability of future lignin‐first biorefineries. The molten salt hydrates (MSH) with homogeneous or heterogeneous catalysts are a potential alternative to biomass pretreatment that promotes cellulose‘s dissolution and its conversion to different platform molecules while keeping the lignin reactivity. This review investigates the fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass using MSH to produce chemicals and fuels. First, the MSH properties and applications are discussed. In particular, the use of MSH in cellulose dissolution and hydrolysis for producing high‐value chemicals and fuels is presented. Then, the biomass treatment with MSH is discussed. Different strategies for preventing sugar degradation, such as biphasic media, adsorbents, and precipitation, are contrasted. The potential for valorizing isolated lignin from the pretreatment with MSH is debated. Finally, challenges and limitations in utilizing MSH for biomass valorization are discussed, and future developments are presented.
Elevated memory T‐cell conversion in a preclinical mouse model of hemophilia A
Authors: Kalandadze Vakhtang , Di Simone Paolo E , Mohammed Imtiyazuddin , Murari Daniele , Follenzi Antonia , Borsotti Chiara
Published: June 2024

One of the major challenges in the choice of the best therapeutic approach for the treatment of patients affected by hemophilia A (HA) is the definition of criteria predicting the formation of factor VIII (FVIII) neutralizing antibodies, called inhibitors. Both genetic and environmental elements influencing the immune response toward FVIII have been identified but still not all the factors causing the pathological rejection of FVIII have been identified. Since there is a connection between coagulation and inflammation, here we assessed the role played by the FVIII deficiency in shaping the humoral and cellular response toward an antigen other than FVIII itself. To this aim, we challenged both HA and wild‐type (WT) mice with either FVIII or ovalbumin (OVA) and followed antigen‐specific antibody level, immune cell population frequency and phenotype up to 9 weeks after the last antigen booster. The activation threshold was evaluated in vitro by stimulating the murine T cells with a decreasing dose of α‐CD3. The humoral response to FVIII was similar between the two groups while both the in vivo and in vitro experiments highlighted an antigen‐independent sensitivity of HA compared with WT T cells causing an increase in memory T‐cell conversion and proliferation capability.
Organometallic‐Free Approches to the Direct Arylation of Benzoquinones and Naphthoquinones
Authors: de Luna Martins Daniela , do Amaral e Silva Nayane Abreu , de Jesus Hiller Noemi , de Carvalho da Silva Fernando , Ferreira Vitor Francisco
Published: June 2024

Quinones represent a ubiquitous class of natural products, extensively distributed throughout nature. Within these organisms, they fulfil pivotal roles across a spectrum of metabolic processes essential to the organisms. Their privileged core structure is present in a variety of substances explored in medicinal chemistry. Modification of the central core of quinones could give rise to new substances with great potential as drug candidates. In this context, the introduction of an aryl or heteroaryl moiety on the quinone structure can be an important strategy for the development of new potentially bioactive compounds. In the present work, direct arylation methods of quinones reported in the literature are summarized, restricting the text to methods where organometallics are not used as catalysts, nor are organometallic species formed during the catalytic cycle. Radical arylation methods are presented where diazonium salts, hydrazines and arylboronic acids are used as aryl radicals’ sources, thermally and photochemically generated. Polar reactions are also presented, that is, through nucleophiles and electrophiles. In most reports, rich aromatics acts as nucleophiles against naphthoquinones, whose electrophilicity is increased by an Brönsted or Lewis acid. Quinones can be the starting materials or generated in situ from phenolic precursors.
Exercise responses to repeated cycle sprints with continuous and intermittent hypoxic exposure
Authors: Li Siu Nam , Anbalagan Prashan , Pang Joel , Ihsan Mohammed , Girard Olivier
Published: June 2024

We examine the impact of the acute manipulation of oxygen availability during discrete phases (active and passive) of a repeated‐sprint cycling protocol on performance, physiological, and perceptual responses. On separate days, twelve trained males completed four sets of five 5‐s ‘all out’ cycle sprints (25‐s inter‐sprint recovery and 5‐min interset rest) in four randomized conditions: normobaric hypoxia (inspired oxygen fraction of 12.9%) applied continuously (C‐HYP), intermittently during only the sets of sprints (I‐HYPSPRINT) or between‐sets recovery periods (I‐HYPRECOVERY), or not at all (C‐NOR). Peak and mean power output, peripheral oxygen saturation, heart rate, blood lactate concentration, exercise‐related sensations, and vastus lateralis muscle oxygenation using near‐infrared spectroscopy were assessed. Peak and mean power output was ∼4%–5% lower for C‐HYP compared to C‐NOR (P ≤ 0.050) and I‐HYPRECOVERY (P ≤ 0.027). Peripheral oxygen saturation was lower during C‐HYP and I‐HYPSPRINT compared with C‐NOR and I‐HYPRECOVERY during sets of sprints (∼83–85 vs. ∼95%–97%; P < 0.001), while lower values were obtained for C‐HYP and I‐HYPRECOVERY than C‐NOR and I‐HYPSPRINT during between‐sets rest period (∼84–85 vs. ∼96%; P < 0.001). Difficulty in breathing was ∼21% higher for C‐HYP than C‐NOR (P = 0.050). Ratings of perceived exertion (P = 0.435), limb discomfort (P = 0.416), heart rate (P = 0.605), blood lactate concentration (P = 0.976), and muscle oxygenation‐derived variables (P = 0.056 to 0.605) did not differ between conditions. In conclusion, the method of hypoxic exposure application (continuous vs. intermittent) affects mechanical performance, while internal demands remained essentially comparable during repeated cycle sprints.
Outcomes of therapeutic plasma exchange for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma cast nephropathy
Authors: Dima Danai , Goel Utkarsh , Sannareddy Aishwarya , Ibeh Nnaemeka , Ullah Fauzia , Afrough Aimaz , Mazzoni Sandra , Mehdi Ali , Rudoni Joslyn , Raza Shahzad , De Simone Nicole , Williams Louis , Khan Adeel , Rashid Aliya , Rice Mikhaila , Ricci Kristin , Samaras Christy , Valent Jason , Anderson Larry D. , Anwer Faiz , Kaur Gurbakhash , Khouri Jack
Published: June 2024

Current treatment guidelines of myeloma cast nephropathy (MCN) recommend the institution of plasma cell‐directed therapy and consideration of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), with the goal of rapid reduction of the serum free light chain (sFLC). However, the role of TPE continues to remain a subject of debate. The goal of this retrospective bi‐institutional study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of TPE in combination with systemic therapy. Eighty patients were included in this analysis, of whom 72.5% had ≥50% drop in their initial involved sFLC. At 3 months from TPE initiation, the overall hematologic response rate (ORR) was 67.5% with a very good partial response or better (≥VGPR) rate of 40%. At 6 months, ORR was 57.5%, with ≥VGPR rate of 49%. The renal response rate at 3 and 6 months was 47.5% and 43.75%, respectively; the overall renal response rate was 48.75%. On multivariable analysis, every one unit increase in baseline creatinine (odds ratio [OR] 0.76, p = 0.006), and achievement of ≥VGPR (OR 21.7 p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with renal response. Also, a ≥50% drop in sFLC was favorably associated with renal response (OR 3.39, p = 0.09). With a median follow‐up of 36.4 months, the median overall survival (OS) was 11 months. On multivariable analysis, achievement of renal response (hazard ratio [HR] 0.3, p < 0.0001) and newly diagnosed disease (NDMM; HR 0.43, p = 0.0055) were associated with improved OS. Among NDMM patients, those treated with daratumumab‐based regimens had a trend for better OS (p = 0.15), compared to other regimens, but the difference was not significant. At the end of follow‐up, an estimated 40.4% of patients who were on dialysis were able to become dialysis independent. In conclusion, our study highlights the poor survival of patients with MCN. Achievement of early renal response is crucial for prolonged OS, with daratumumab‐based therapies showing promise.
Identifying high‐risk multiple myeloma patients: A novel approach using a clonal gene signature
Authors: Li Jian‐Rong , Wang Christiana , Cheng Chao
Published: June 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a heterogeneous disease with a small subset of high‐risk patients having poor prognoses. Identifying these patients is crucial for treatment management and strategic decisions. In this study, we developed a novel computational framework to define prognostic gene signatures by selecting genes with expression driven by clonal copy number alterations. We applied this framework to MM and developed a clonal gene signature (CGS) consisting of 22 genes and evaluated in five independent datasets. The CGS provided significant prognostic values after adjusting for well‐established factors including cytogenetic abnormalities, International Staging System (ISS), and Revised ISS (R‐ISS). Importantly, CGS demonstrated higher performance in identifying high‐risk patients compared to the GEP70 and SKY92 signatures recommended for prognostic stratification of MM. CGS can further stratify patients into subgroups with significantly differential prognoses when applied to the high‐ and low‐risk groups identified by GEP70 and SKY92. Additionally, CGS scores are significantly associated with patient response to dexamethasone, a commonly used treatment for MM. In summary, we proposed a computational framework that requires only gene expression data to identify CGSs for prognosis prediction. CGS provides a useful biomarker for improving prognostic stratification in MM, especially for identifying the highest‐risk patients.
Practical Applications of Supramolecular Macrocyclic Hosts in the Field of Herbal Medicines
Authors: Yu Huijuan , Niu Kejing , Zhao Yuting , Wang Yuefei
Published: June 2024

Herbal medicines (HMs) are gaining increasing popularity and recognition worldwide due to their eco‐friendliness and efficacy. With their multi‐compounds, multi‐targets, and multi‐pathways characteristics, HMs have been used in treatment of various diseases. However, the clinical applications of preparations containing HMs have been limited due to their inherent physicochemical properties, including low water solubility, poor stability, and unsatisfactory bioavailability of bioactive compounds. Supramolecular macrocyclic hosts, like cyclodextrins, calixarenes, cucurbiturils, and pillararenes, are important objects of researches in supramolecular chemistry. These hosts have been utilized to encapsulate the ingredients, improve the solubility of poorly water‐soluble components, enhance the stability of the tested compounds, increase the bioavailability of bioactive compounds, and ensure the safety of HMs. Herein, we provide a brief introduction to the theories of supramolecular chemistry and summarize the extensive applications of supramolecular macrocyclic hosts in the field of HMs. These applications encompass the screening of bioactive compounds in HMs and the enhancement of druggability for HMs. We hope this review can provide a strategy for dealing with the challenges of HMs, thereby enabling their better applications and development.
Uncertain prelabor rupture of membranes at term and associated delivery outcomes
Authors: Geron Yossi , Rozner Negrin Noam , Matot Ran , Hendin Natav , Danieli‐Gruber Shir , Shmueli Anat , Hadar Eran
Published: June 2024

Objective

To determine whether equivocal prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM) cases are associated with adverse outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary medical center between July 2012 and March 2022. The cohort comprised all women diagnosed with term PROM (≥37 gestational weeks), divided into two groups. (1) Certain PROM—suggestive history of a watery vaginal discharge confirmed by visualization of fluid leaking from the cervix or pooling in the vagina on speculum examination. (2) Uncertain PROM—suggestive history of a watery vaginal discharge not supported by speculum examination. All patients were hospitalized and gave birth spontaneously or following either expectant management for up to 24 h from PROM or induction. The primary outcome measure was cesarean delivery (CD) rate. Secondary outcome measures were adverse maternal/neonatal events.

Results

Of the 2012 women included in the study, 1750 had certain PROM and 262 uncertain PROM. CD rate was 5.8% in the certain PROM group and 8.8% in the uncertain PROM group; the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.074). There was a significant between‐group difference in the rate of CD due to failed induction on univariate analysis (0.69% vs 2.67%, respectively, P = 0.007), but it was not maintained on multivariate logistic regression (odds ratio 0.37, 95% confidence interval: 0.12–1.17). Other maternal and neonatal outcomes were similar in the two groups.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that following the same management guidelines for equivocal cases of ruptured membranes as for confirmed cases of term PROM did not compromise maternal or fetal outcomes.
Spatiotemporal investigation of geochemical and hydrological controls on release of soluble reactive phosphorus from the shallow aquifer of a riparian zone
Authors: Wang Shuyang , Roy James W. , Power Christopher , Robinson Clare E.
Published: June 2024

Phosphorus (P) that accumulates in agricultural riparian zones can be released under certain hydrological and biogeochemical conditions, thereby limiting the effectiveness of these zones in reducing P loads from field to stream. The study objective was to explore factors that may be contributing to, or limiting, high soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) concentrations in the shallow aquifer of an alluvial upland riparian zone located in a continental climate. Field investigations including porewater sampling from six vertical nests, soil sampling, and continuous soil moisture, groundwater table, and redox measurements were conducted over 19 months. Porewater SRP concentrations were generally low in the aquifer considering all sampling times (median = 14.7 µg/L; interquartile range [IQR] = 11.1 µg/L, 287 samples). The overall low SRP may be due to low reducible labile soil P (median = 21.1 µgP/g dw, IQR = 10.9 µgP/g dw, 21 samples). However, high SRP concentrations (>52 µg/L, 95% quartile) did occur intermittently in space and time with no clear spatial or temporal patterns. Analyses indicate that most high concentrations were likely not associated with factors previously reported to influence SRP release in riparian aquifers, including redox conditions, pH, and soil drying and wetting. Further, data indicate that internally released or externally supplied SRP may undergo rapid (re‐) sequestration within the aquifer, limiting its vertical or horizontal transport. The study findings highlight the complexity of P behavior in riparian zones and the need for caution when assessing the effectiveness of conservation practices and in interpreting potential impacts of subsurface water quality on stream water quality when monitoring locations are distant from the stream.
Why have we not detected gender differences in organizational justice perceptions?! An evidenced‐based argument for increasing inclusivity within justice research
Authors: Strah Nicole , Rupp Deborah E. , Shao Ruodan , King Eden , Skarlicki Daniel
Published: June 2024

While research from various disciplines shows that women continue to disproportionately face workplace injustices compared to men, OB research has not found meaningful gender differences in self‐reported workplace justice perceptions. This paradox has received little attention in the otherwise well‐established organizational justice literature. We applied an abductive approach to investigate this paradox by a) confirming its existence, and b) proposing and empirically evaluating seven possible explanations for its existence, using multiple methods and seven distinct datasets. We found that this paradox is unlikely to be explained by measurement invariance, different expectations for treatment, whether the context is male‐dominated, differences across years, or differences in how justice perceptions are formed. We did find, however, that when using alternate measurement approaches, women recalled gender‐based injustice experiences, reported them as having occurred more frequently than did men, and reported them as having been negatively impactful on their lives/careers. We conclude that the most promising explanation for this paradox is that extant organizational justice measures are deficient for the purpose of capturing variance accountable to gender‐based injustice. This highlights the need for more inclusive approaches for the measurement and application of organizational justice, especially when studying the relationship between gender and organizational justice.
Photoprotective behaviours amongst persons with albinism in Uyo, Nigeria
Authors: Ighorodje Edesiri E. , Nga Charles N. , Atansi Chinyere C. , Ukpong Omolara Y. , Fabiyi Morolayo O. , Nelson Udeme‐Abasi U.
Published: June 2024

Background

Strict photoprotection is crucial for persons living with albinism (PWAs), especially in Nigeria where the level of solar ultraviolet radiation is particularly high, which further increases the susceptibility of this population to develop photodermatoses and, ultimately, skin cancer.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude towards photoprotection among PWAs in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, Nigeria.

Methods

A descriptive cross‐sectional study involving consenting 50 participants with oculocutaneous albinism was recruited through interviewer‐administered questionnaires. Data analysis utilised SPSS 26.

Results

The use of sun‐protective clothing was the predominant photoprotective measure (62%) with an overall low sun‐protection strategy usage of 5% and 10% knowledge rate, despite 80% acknowledging the daily use of various forms of photoprotection. Cost was cited as the commonest deterrent to poor use of sunscreen (47.8%).

Conclusions

Poor awareness and photoprotection usage amongst persons with albinism in Uyo are discouragingly below standard increasing their risk of developing photodermatoses which adversely affects their quality of life. Therefore, dermatologists should improve collaborative efforts at addressing barriers such as cost and enhancing knowledge about effective photoprotection strategies.
Reaction mixed over FDA committee rejection of MDMA therapy for PTSD
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2024

A recent decision by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) advisory committee to reject psychedelic treatment and therapy to treat post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), citing that the available evidence of midomafetamine, better known as MDMA, fails to show that the drug is effective, has been met with mixed reaction by a member of the field and an advocacy organization committed to advancing safe and equitable access to psychedelic therapies to improve mental health.
New York Hill Day advocates push for priority policy goals
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2024

Observing the need to create alternatives to psychiatric hospitals and support pending legislation to improve the recovery of individuals diagnosed with mental health conditions, a delegation of advocates and organizations from around the country descended on Capitol Hill earlier this month to ensure their messages and priorities are heard.
Increase in antidepressants among females seen after COVID
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2024

Antidepressant dispensing to adolescents and young adults was rising even before the COVID‐19 outbreak and substantially increased even more afterward, according to researchers of a recent study published in Pediatrics. The change was driven by increased antidepressant dispensing to female patients, they added.
Statistical image reconstruction with beam‐hardening compensation for X‐ray CT by a calibration step (2DIterBH)
Authors: Sanderson Daniel , Martinez Cristóbal , Fessler Jeffrey A. , Desco Manuel , Abella Mónica
Published: June 2024

Background

The beam‐hardening effect due to the polychromatic nature of the X‐ray spectra results in two main artifacts in CT images: cupping in homogeneous areas and dark bands between dense parts in heterogeneous samples. Post‐processing methods have been proposed in the literature to compensate for these artifacts, but these methods may introduce additional noise in low‐dose acquisitions. Iterative methods are an alternative to compensate noise and beam‐hardening artifacts simultaneously. However, they usually rely on the knowledge of the spectrum or the selection of empirical parameters.

Purpose

We propose an iterative reconstruction method with beam hardening compensation for small animal scanners that is robust against low‐dose acquisitions and that does not require knowledge of the spectrum, overcoming the limitations of current beam‐hardening correction algorithms.

Methods

The proposed method includes an empirical characterization of the beam‐hardening function based on a simple phantom in a polychromatic statistical reconstruction method. Evaluation was carried out on simulated data with different noise levels and step angles and on limited‐view rodent data acquired with the ARGUS/CT system.

Results

Results in small animal studies showed a proper correction of the beam‐hardening artifacts in the whole sample, independently of the quantity of bone present on each slice. The proposed approach also reduced noise in the low‐dose acquisitions and reduced streaks in the limited‐view acquisitions.

Conclusions

Using an empirical model for the beam‐hardening effect, obtained through calibration, in an iterative reconstruction method enables a robust correction of beam‐hardening artifacts in low‐dose small animal studies independently of the bone distribution.
Simultaneous dose and dose rate optimization via dose modifying factor modeling for FLASH effective dose
Authors: Ma Jiangjun , Lin Yuting , Tang Min , Zhu Ya‐Nan , Gan Gregory N. , Rotondo Ronny L. , Chen Ronald C. , Gao Hao
Published: June 2024

Background

Although the FLASH radiotherapy (FLASH) can improve the sparing of organs‐at‐risk (OAR) via the FLASH effect, it is generally a tradeoff between the physical dose coverage and the biological FLASH coverage, for which the concept of FLASH effective dose (FED) is needed to quantify the net improvement of FLASH, compared to the conventional radiotherapy (CONV).

Purpose

This work will develop the first‐of‐its‐kind treatment planning method called simultaneous dose and dose rate optimization via dose modifying factor modeling (SDDRO‐DMF) for proton FLASH that directly optimizes FED.

Methods

SDDRO‐DMF models and optimizes FED using FLASH dose modifying factor (DMF) models, which can be classified into two categories: (1) the phenomenological model of the FLASH effect, such as the FLASH effectiveness model (FEM); (2) the mechanistic model of the FLASH radiobiology, such as the radiolytic oxygen depletion (ROD) model. The general framework of SDDRO‐DMF will be developed, with specific DMF models using FEM and ROD, as a demonstration of general applicability of SDDRO‐DMF for proton FLASH via transmission beams (TB) or Bragg peaks (BP) with single‐field or multi‐field irradiation. The FLASH dose rate is modeled as pencil beam scanning dose rate. The solution algorithm for solving the inverse optimization problem of SDDRO‐DMF is based on iterative convex relaxation method.

Results

SDDRO‐DMF is validated in comparison with IMPT and a state‐of‐the‐art method called SDDRO, with demonstrated efficacy and improvement for reducing the high dose and the high‐dose volume for OAR in terms of FED. For example, in a SBRT lung case of the dose‐limiting factor that the max dose of brachial plexus should be no more than 26 Gy, only SDDRO‐DMF met this max dose constraint; moreover, SDDRO‐DMF completely eliminated the high‐dose (V70%) volume to zero for CTV10mm (a high‐dose region as a 10 mm ring expansion of CTV).

Conclusion

We have proposed a new proton FLASH optimization method called SDDRO‐DMF that directly optimizes FED using phenomenological or mechanistic models of DMF, and have demonstrated the efficacy of SDDO‐DMF in reducing the high‐dose volume or/and the high‐dose value for OAR, compared to IMPT and a state‐of‐the‐art method SDDRO.
A reduced order variational spectral method for efficient construction of eigenstrain‐based reduced order homogenization models
Authors: Nasirov Aslan , Oskay Caglar
Published: June 2024

Reduced order models (ROMs) are often coupled with concurrent multiscale simulations to mitigate the computational cost of nonlinear computational homogenization methods. Construction (or training) of ROMs typically requires evaluation of a series of linear or nonlinear equilibrium problems, which itself could be a computationally very expensive process. In the eigenstrain‐based reduced order homogenization method (EHM), a series of linear elastic microscale equilibrium problems are solved to compute the localization and interaction tensors that are in turn used in the evaluation of the reduced order multiscale system. These microscale equilibrium problems are typically solved using either the finite element method or semi‐analytical methods. In the present study, a reduced order variational spectral method is developed for efficient computation of the localization and interaction tensors. The proposed method leads to a small stiffness matrix that scales with the order of the reduced basis rather than the number of degrees of freedom in the finite element mesh. The reduced order variational spectral method maintains high accuracy in the computed response fields. A speedup higher than an order of magnitude can be achieved compared to the finite element method in polycrystalline microstructures. The accuracy and scalability of the method for large polycrystals and increasing phase property contrast are investigated.
Discrete molecular weight strategy modulates hydrogen bonding‐induced crystallization and chain orientation for melt‐spun high‐strength polyamide fibers
Authors: Wang Jinling , Yu Senlong , Zhou Jialiang , Liang Chengyao , Huang Weilei , Hu Zexu , Chen Ziye , Xiang Hengxue , Zhu Meifang
Published: June 2024

Hydrogen bonding is the prerequisite for polyamide fibers to have better stress–strain behavior. It affects the crystal structure of polyamide fibers, such as orientation and periodic arrangement. To illustrate the effect of intermolecular hydrogen bonding on fiber orientation structure and macroscopic mechanical properties, this work uses conventional polyamide resin doped with high molecular weight components to construct polymer compounds with discrete distribution characteristics. By analyzing the changes in intermolecular hydrogen bonds, melt rheological properties, non‐isothermal crystallization behaviors, the impact of hydrogen bonds on the crystal structure and orientation structure and thus on the fiber strength was clarified. The doping of high molecular weight components can make the compound form more hydrogen bonds and inhibit the relaxation of molecular chains through entanglement, thereby promoting melt non‐isothermal crystallization process and increasing complex viscosity η* and storage mode G'. 1D and 2D wide‐angle and small‐angle X‐ray scattering show that doping components reduce crystal size of α1(200) and α2(002, 202) planes from 4.19 to 3.47 nm and 5.88 to 4.96 nm, resulting in a denser long‐period structure. Through the strategy of this work, polyamide 6 fibers' tensile strength is effectively improved by18%, and the mechanical properties are significantly improved.

Highlights

High‐strength polyamide compound fibers were prepared.

Discretely distributed compounds are achieved.

Discretely distributed molecular weight enabled hydrogen bonding regulation.

Hydrogen bonding‐induced compound fiber crystal structure.

Multiple external fields induced crystallization and orientation structures.
Corticosteroids in critically ill patients: A narrative review
Authors: Haan Bradley J. , Blackmon Samantha N. , Cobb Alex M. , Cohen Heather E. , DeVier Margaret T. , Perez Mary M. , Winslow Samuel F.
Published: June 2024

Corticosteroids have been utilized in modern medicine for decades. Many indications have been investigated across various treatment settings with both benefit and harm observed. Given the instability of critically ill patients, the increased risk of corticosteroid‐related complications, and the pervasive comorbidities, patients who receive corticosteroids must be carefully managed. Common critical care disease states in which corticosteroids have been studied and are routinely utilized include acute respiratory distress syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, angioedema, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, community‐acquired pneumonia, coronavirus disease 2019, septic shock, and spinal cord injury. Benefits of corticosteroids include an improvement in disease state‐specific outcomes, decreased hospital length of stay, decreased mechanical ventilatory support, and decreased mortality. The harm of corticosteroids is well documented through adverse effects that include, but are not limited to, hyperglycemia, tachycardia, hypertension, agitation, delirium, anxiety, immunosuppression, gastrointestinal bleeding, fluid retention, and muscle weakness. Furthermore, corticosteroids are associated with increased health care costs through adverse effects as well as drug acquisition and administration costs. Given the assortment of agents, dosing, benefits, risks, and utilization in the critical care setting, there may be difficulty with identifying the appropriate places for use of corticosteroids in therapy. There currently exists no comprehensive report detailing the use of corticosteroids in the aforementioned disease states within the critical care setting. This narrative review sets out to describe these in detail.
Improved breast milk proteome coverage by DIA based LC‐MS/MS method
Authors: Viitaharju Jenni , Polari Lauri , Kauko Otto , Merilahti Johannes , Rokka Anne , Toivola Diana M. , Laitinen Kirsi
Published: June 2024

The breast milk composition includes a multitude of bioactive factors such as viable cells, lipids and proteins. Measuring the levels of specific proteins in breast milk plasma can be challenging because of the large dynamic range of protein concentrations and the presence of interfering substances. Therefore, most proteomic studies of breast milk have been able to identify under 1000 proteins. Optimised procedures and the latest separation technologies used in milk proteome research could lead to more precise knowledge of breast milk proteome. This study (n = 53) utilizes three different protein quantification methods, including direct DIA, library‐based DIA method and a hybrid method combining direct DIA and library‐based DIA. On average we identified 2400 proteins by hybrid method. By applying these methods, we quantified body mass index (BMI) associated variation in breast milk proteomes. There were 210 significantly different proteins when comparing the breast milk proteome of obese and overweight mothers. In addition, we analysed a small cohort (n = 5, randomly selected from 53 samples) by high field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS). FAIMS coupled with the Orbitrap Fusion Lumos mass spectrometer, which led to 41.7% higher number of protein identifications compared to Q Exactive HF mass spectrometer.
High tough, self‐adhesive, conductive double network hydrogel for flexible strain sensors
Authors: Li Feihong , Liu Peng , Li Xiangyu , Bi Yuanyuan , Chen Changxiu , Zhang Hanzhi , Li Yuanhang , Yu Yunwu , Gu Yaxin , Tang Ning
Published: June 2024

The application of adhesive conductive hydrogel materials in flexible sensors has been extensively studied. However, existing adhesive hydrogel sensor materials have problems such as poor adhesion, low conductivity, and difficulty in balancing mechanical and adhesive properties, which limit their practical applications. In this study, we propose a simple and economical method to fabricate double‐network hydrogels for flexible strain sensors by dissolving acrylamide (AM), chitosan (CS), polyethylene glycol (PEG) and gelatin (Gel) in a mixed solvent of deionized water and a food‐grade phosphate. The prepared AM/CS/PEG/Gel (ACPG) hydrogel exhibits excellent toughness (maximum stress of 154 kPa, maximum elongation of 2256%), self‐adhesiveness (maximum adhesion strength to wood of 17.2 kPa), and high conductivity (2.33 S/m). Compared with similar adhesive hydrogels, the conductivity of ACPG hydrogel is significantly improved. Therefore, ACPG hydrogel can be used as an ideal material for flexible sensors, and has broad application potential in wearable devices and human‐computer interaction.