bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortical Thickness and Complexity in aMCI Patients: Altered Pattern Analysis and Early Diagnosis
Authors: Tao Mengling , Xie Zhongfeng , Chen Peiying , Xu Xiaowen , Wang Peijun
Published: September 2024

Background:

Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI) is a prodromal phase of
Alzheimer's disease. Although recent studies have focused on cortical thickness as a key indicator,
cortical complexity has not been exhaustively investigated.

Objectives:

To investigate the altered patterns of cortical features in aMCI patients and their correlation
with memory function for early identification.

Methods:

25 aMCI patients and 54 normal controls underwent neuropsychological assessments and
3D-T1 MRI scans. Cortical thickness and complexity measures were calculated using CAT12
software. Differences between groups were analyzed using two-sample t-tests, and multiple linear
regression was employed to identify features associated with memory function. A support vector
machine (SVM) model was constructed using multidimensional structural indicators to evaluate
diagnostic performance.

Results:

aMCI patients exhibited extensive reductions in cortical thickness (pFDR-corrected
<0.05), with complexity reduction predominantly in the left parahippocampal, entorhinal, rostral
anterior cingulate, fusiform, and orbitofrontal (pFWE-corrected<0.05). Cortical indicators exhibited
robust correlations with auditory verbal learning test (AVLT) scores. Specifically, the fractal
dimension of the left medial orbitofrontal region was independently and positively associated with
AVLT-short delayed score (r=0.348, p=0.002), while the gyrification index of the left rostral anterior
cingulate region showed independent positive correlations with AVLT-long delayed and
recognition scores (r=0.408, p=0.000; r=0.332, p=0.003). Finally, the SVM model integrating these
cortical features achieved an AUC of 0.91, with 82.28% accuracy, 76% sensitivity, and 85.19%
specificity.

Conclusion:

Cortical morphological indicators provide important neuroimaging evidence for the
early diagnosis of aMCI. Integrating multiple structural indicators significantly improves diagnostic
accuracy.
Glucose Metabolic Abnormality: A Crosstalk between Depression and
Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yang Shaobin , Li Yanhong , Tang Qi , Zhang Yimeng , Shao Tingji
Published: September 2024

Depression and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are two prevalent and debilitating conditions
that significantly impact millions of people worldwide. Depressive disorders are characterized by
persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and impaired cognitive function. AD is a progressive
neurodegenerative disorder that is accompanied by cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral
changes. To date, the pathogenesis of AD and depression has not yet been fully explained. Recent
studies have provided insights into the intricate relationship between these two disorders by emphasizing
the role of glucose metabolic abnormalities as a potential link. This review explores the bidirectional
association between depression and AD, focusing on common pathophysiological mechanisms
involving glucose metabolism, such as hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation,
insulin resistance, glucose transporters, and oxidative stress. Understanding the crosstalk between
glucose metabolic abnormalities, depression, and AD will open new avenues for therapeutic
interventions. Finally, improving glucose metabolism through lifestyle modifications, pharmaceutical
interventions or novel therapeutic approaches could provide a promising therapeutic strategy for
managing both conditions simultaneously.
Identification of Novel Biomarkers for Post-Kasai Portoenterostomy in Biliary Atresia through Shotgun Proteomics Analysis
Authors: Ngoenmak Thitima , Pongcharoen Sutatip , Phaonakrop Narumon , Thaisakun Siriwan , Roytrakul Sittiruk
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Biliary Atresia (BA) causes neonatal cholestasis jaundice. The primary
therapeutic treatment for BA is the Kasai portoenterostomy. Current diagnostic approaches for BA
are imprecise and time-consuming, making early diagnosis crucial for successful treatment outcomes.

Objective:

This study aims to analyze proteins from Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs)
obtained from children with BA compared with healthy children

Methods and Study Design:

We employed a large-scale, total shotgun quantitative serum proteomics
approach to analyze the protein from PBMC samples from a discovery cohort. This approach
allowed for the simultaneous identification and quantification of multiple proteins, enabling
the detection of disease-specific protein expression patterns. The study is proteomic-based
study.

Results:

We identified 24 proteins, by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis
that exhibited high discriminatory power for five subjects with BA post-Kasai operation compared
to ten healthy controls. ATP2A3, LIN28B, SLC25A3, ITGB3, COX5A, and HLA-B identified
proteins of upregulation were predicted to associate with BA post-Kasai operation.

Discussion:

Our findings highlight the utility of proteomic techniques in BA research. The identified
proteomic markers offer promise for improving BA diagnostic accuracy and timeliness, leading
to enhanced treatment outcomes for affected children.

Conclusion:

Proteomic analysis revealed a set of potential biomarkers for early and accurate diagnosis
of biliary atresia. These biomarkers hold significant clinical value and have the potential to
transform the management of biliary atresia by facilitating timely intervention and improving patient
outcomes.
Exploring the Mechanism of Influence of Wolfberry (Lycium barbarum L.) on Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Wu Yang , Niu Jingjing , Bu Lei , Li Cong , Liu Yuxin , Jiang Jinrui , Xu Qingbin , Ma Ping , Zhou Ru
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

This study mainly made use of network pharmacology and molecular docking to
analyze the therapeutic mechanism of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by the traditional medicinal
food plant Lycium barbarum L. in Ningxia.

Methods:

The related targets and active compounds in PAH and Lycium barbarum L. were analyzed
through the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systematic Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform
(TCMSP), GeneCards databases, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) databases、
Cytoscape (3.7.1) software、the STRING database、the Database for Annotation Visualization and
Integrated Discovery (DAVID) database. In addition, the main active compounds were molecularly
docked with key targets.

Results:

The results showed that 35 active ingredients of Lycium barbarum L. were obtained. The
protein-protein interaction (PPI) network includes 140 potential target proteins. Gene Ontology (GO)
enrichment analysis yielded 34 entries from three parts: biological processes, cell composition, and
molecular function. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis
obtained 157 pathways, mainly involving Chemical carcinogenesis receptor activation, Lipid and atherosclerosis,
Hepatitis B/C, Chemical carcinogenesis reactive oxygen species, as well as Signaling pathways
such as HIF-1, TNF, PI3K-Akt, and MAPK. Molecular docking results showed that the affinity of
the key targets to quercetin is less than -5 kcal/mol, and the affinity with betaine is less than 0.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, it was preliminarily predicted that the active compounds of Lycium barbarum
L., such as quercetin and betaine, acted on key targets such as AKT1, EGFR, MYC played an
intervention role in PAH by regulating multiple signaling pathways, which provided a theoretical
basis for the development and application of Lycium barbarum L. and the treatment of PAH.
Investigation of Toxicity of the Combined Exposure of Microplastics and Arsenic (III) on Clams
Authors: Zeng Liqing , Chen Yazhen , Pan Baiqi , Yang Hui , Chen Yuyan , Xu Mei , Chen Songmei , Yang Fan , Gu Chongyu
Published: September 2024

Background:

Microplastics is a new type of global pollutant that can absorb pollutants
in the environment and enter the food chain. Arsenic (As) is a kind of heavy metal element,
and its pollution to the environment has been triggered concern. Currently, the escalating threat
to marine ecology posed by both microplastics and heavy metal pollution is garnering increasing
attention, particularly concerning their detrimental impact on human health

Methods:

The aim of this paper is to study the adsorption of As by microplastics and their combined
toxic effects on clams, which were determined by joint toxicity test.

Results:

During the initial 48 hours, the fatality rates for larval clams exposed to As (III)-
adsorbed microplastics, including polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS),
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) at concentrations ranging
from 10 mg/L to 500 mg/L, varied in the range of 0-30.0%, 0-10.0%, 0-30.0%, 0-15.0%, and 0-
50.0%, respectively. Similarly, adult clams exhibited fatality rates within the ranges of 0-35.0%,
0-25.0%, 0-30.0%, 0-50.0%, and 0-15.0%. However, these rates increased significantly after 48
hours, reaching 80.0% (PP), 62.0% (PE), 40.0% (PS), 60.0% (PVC), and 70.0% (PMMA) for
larval clams, and 85.0% (PP), 72.0% (PE), 40.0% (PS), 72.0% (PVC), and 65.0% (PMMA) for
adult clams, respectively. In contrast, when exposed to microplastics concentrations exceeding
1000 mg/L with adsorbed As (III), both larval and adult clams experienced fatality rates that
initially peaked between 55.0% and 100.0% within the first 48 hours. Throughout the entire
incubation period with As (III) alone, the fatality rates for larval and adult clams remained relatively
low, ranging from 0-20.0% and 0-15.0%, respectively.

Conclusion:

The mortality rate of clams directly correlated with the input of microplastic particles
containing As (III); specifically, an increase in the concentration of microplastics resulted in
higher fatality rates and accelerated death rates among the clams. Clams demonstrated varying
toxicological responses to the different types of microplastics.
The Effect of Probiotics and Microbiota on Nervous System and Mental Illnesses
Authors: Hossainpour Hadi , Khazaei Salman , Mahmoudi Hassan
Published: September 2024

The microbiota that inhabits the gastrointestinal tract has been linked to various gastrointestinal
and non-gastrointestinal disorders. Scientists have been studying how the bacteria in our intestines
have an effect on our brain and nervous system. This connection is called the "microbiota-gut-brain axis".
Given the capacity of probiotics, which are live non-pathogenic microorganisms, to reinstate the
normal microbial population within the host and confer advantages, their potential impact has been
subjected to scrutiny with regard to neurological and mental conditions. Material sourced for this review
included peer-reviewed literature annotated in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google
Scholar databases. The result has indicated the integration of probiotics into a child's diet to enhance
the neuro-behavioral symptoms. Notwithstanding this, the current data set has been found to be insufficient
and inconclusive. The potential utility of probiotics for the prevention or treatment of neurologic
and mental disorders has become a subject of substantial interest.
Associative Learning in Subclinical Hypothyroidism at Different Ranges of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone: A Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) Study of Visual Paired Association Learning Task
Authors: Kaur Jhandi Satkarjit , Shenoy Shweta , Singh Ajaypal
Published: September 2024

Background:

Associative learning deficits are constantly found in subclinical hypothyroidism
(SCH). Despite achieving normal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, a considerable
number of patients undergoing levothyroxine (LT-4) treatment frequently complain
about memory retrieval. The Paired Association Learning (PAL) task involves computerised
testing on the CANTAB- Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery, also considered
a screening tool for Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate the impact of different levels of TSH on visual associative
learning in SCH and determine if these impairments were reversed with LT-4.

Methods:

A total of 134 participants were included in this cross-sectional study. Group 1: 35
healthy controls; patients with SCH (Group 2: 33 newly identified cases; Group 3: 32 patients
on LT-4 with elevated TSH; Group 4: 34 euthyroid but on LT-4). A thyroid profile and a neuropsychological
clinical assessment were done. The visual PAL task was performed on CANTAB.

Results:

PAL was significantly impaired (p = <0.05) in all 3 patient groups as compared to
Group 1. The PAL total errors (adjusted) scores were significantly higher in Groups 2 and 3,
indicating that associative learning is definitely impaired in SCH, reaching levels previously
seen in patients with AD.

Conclusion:

Our findings encourage screening for visual associative learning or memory retrieval
in patients with SCH. The study present has established a more reasonable threshold of
TSH 2.5mIU/L to encourage examination of associative learning and the initiation of LT-4 in
SCH. Poor PAL task performance in patients with SCH may have significant implications in
clinical settings for suspecting AD.
Interpreting the Function of the IL-23/IL-17 Axis through Bioinformatics
Authors: Vazquez-Jimenez Sonia Isela , Gonzalez-Sanchez Grecia Denisse , Guerrero-Velazquez Celia , Guzman-Flores Juan Manuel
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Objective:

Bioinformatic analysis is a valuable tool that allows us to
collect, archive, analyze, and disseminate biological data for further interpretation. Analysis of
the IL-23/IL-17A axis and its receptors will provide us with essential information about their
functions, interactions, and relationships with various diseases. This review aims to identify the
central genes co-expressed in the IL-23/IL-17A axis and their receptors and to understand their
ontology and modifying factors.

Methods:

We used several databases, including COXPRESdb to obtain the co-expressed genes,
ShinyGO and ToppGene platforms to explore gene functional enrichment, and the NetworkAnalyst
3.0 platform for gene expression profiling.

Results:

We found that genes encoding IL-23/IL-17A axis proteins and their receptors mainly
respond to microbial components, participate in the inflammatory response, and are primarily
associated with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In addition, we observed an association
of the IL-23/IL-17 axis with Behcet's disease, Graft-versus-host disease, and Hodgkin's disease,
although there is no direct evidence of their interaction.

Conclusion:

The IL-23/IL-17A axis is associated with several inflammatory and autoimmune
pathologies. Therefore, we suggest further research to confirm its role in these pathologies and,
if possible, use it as a therapeutic target.
Obesity, herbal extracts, dietary supplements, mechanisms of action, medicinal plants, phytochemicals, clinical studies, management.
Authors: Mohanty Satyajit , Nayak Nikita , Mukherjee Tuhin , Kumari Shivangi , Kumar Prabhakar Pranav , Pattnaik Ashok
Published: September 2024

Obesity and associated health impairments are proven to exhibit multifocal health
disorders along with increasing co-morbidity. Underlying obesity pathology is linked up with
almost every major disease, which may increase the risk of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes,
cancer, osteoarthritis, etc. The prevalence of overweight and obesity is on the rise around
the world, which enormously affects the life span of individuals. Due to the foggier nature of
the underlying pathology, the efficacy is questionable for conventional treatments. The traditional
therapy of obesity may involve synthetic moieties and surgical procedures, which have
many harmful side effects and chances of recurrent severity. Scientists are continuously focusing
on prophylactic remedies alongside maintaining a proper lifestyle. In that context, nature
always helped with traditional medications. As per folklore medicine reports, many plants have
been used to treat obesity and its associated complications. This review compiles a vast array of
datasets, including the impact of obesity and the need for the introduction of phytochemicals in
place of conventional pharmacotherapies, the impact of phytochemicals along with the reported
mechanisms of action, recent clinical trial reports, and recently explored dietary supplements.
The primary objective of this presentation is to chart the future trajectory of phytochemical research
for metabolic disorders, establishing a foundational framework for future investigations
to build upon.
Estrogen Receptor-α rs9340799 Polymorphism Influences Bone Mineral Density in Women Over 60 Years of Age and Women Who are Postmenopausal for More than 10 Years
Authors: Mazaydeh Rawan O. , Irshaid Yacoub M. , Al Shhab Mohammad A. , Khawaja Nahla , El-Khateeb Mohammed , Ajlouni Kamel M.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Osteoporosis is a multifactorial disorder where genetic and
environmental factors contribute to changes in bone mineral density. Several genetic
polymorphisms are associated with low bone mineral density and osteoporosis risk,
including estrogen receptor-α rs2234693 and rs9340799 single nucleotide polymorphisms.

Objective:

To determine the allele frequencies of these polymorphisms among
postmenopausal Jordanian women and to assess their association with low bone mineral
density and osteoporosis among studied subjects.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study enrolled 450 postmenopausal Jordanian women
having dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans at the National Center for Diabetes,
Endocrinology, and Genetics. The study protocol was approved by this center
"Institutional Review Board." The estrogen receptor-α gene sequence containing
rs2234693 and rs9340799 polymorphisms was identified by polymerase chain reaction,
followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results:

The wild-type allele frequencies of rs2234693 (T) and rs9340799 (A) were 54%
and 59%, respectively. The rs9340799 GG genotype was significantly associated with
lower femoral neck T-scores in women who were postmenopausal for more than 10 years
(p = 0.023) and was significantly associated with lower lumbar spine (p = 0.033) and
femoral neck (p = 0.002) T-scores in women older than 60 years of age. However, there
was no association between rs2234693, rs9340799, or their haplotypes with osteoporosis
or bone mineral density T-score values. The two polymorphisms were in Heidy-Weinberg
equilibrium and exhibited strong but incomplete linkage disequilibrium.

Conclusion:

The data suggest that rs9340799 polymorphism may render some women
more susceptible to osteoporosis than others.
Pharmacogenetics of Metformin Monotherapy: GSTM1/T1 Polymorphisms and T2DM Risk
Authors: Shukla Ashwin Kumar , Awasthi Komal , Usman Kauser , Banerjee Monisha
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Metformin is a key treatment for type 2 diabetes, often linked to
oxidative stress and genetic factors like GSTM1 and GSTT1 variations

Methods:

We studied 150 subjects, examining how their deletion polymorphisms in these
genes correlate with Met treatment response. Those with GSTM1/T1 deletions (-/-) had a
higher T2DM risk (2.71-fold, P=0.005).

Results:

Met responders with GSTM1(16bp) deletions had lower glucose levels compared
to non-responders (P<0.0001), and similar trends were observed with GSTT1(54bp) deletions.
Responders with both deletions also managed lipids better (P=0.0256; P=0.0151).
Non-responders with GSTM1/T1 null genotypes had better HDL management (P=0.007).

Conclusion:

These findings suggested that GSTM1 deletion could predict T2DM susceptibility
and Met response.
Tribological Investigations of AA2024/SiC/Eggshell Reinforced Hybrid Composite using NSGA-II and TOPSIS
Authors: Nagpal Yatan , Sharma Rohit , Sharma Neeraj , Tyagi R K
Published: September 2024

Aim:

The disposal of chicken eggshell [ES], a byproduct of aviculture, is a major environmental
issue. Chicken eggshell can be utilized to create new low-cost, low-density consumer
goods materials. In order to alleviate environmental difficulties, the proper usage of ES as a biowaste
should be actively pursued.

Background:

Composites emerged as the most promising materials in recent years. Nowadays, hybrid
aluminium matrix composites were developed by utilizing of low-cost reinforcements with less
density and high strength. Composite materials which were developed by use of agricultural waste
as a reinforcement can be utilized in various applications/industries such as aeronautical, manufacturing,
automobile etc.

Objective:

The objective of present work is to find out the tribological characteristics of
AA2024/SiC/carbonized eggshell hybrid green aluminium metal matrix composites [AMMCs]. The
wear rate [WR] and coefficient of friction [CF] were investigated at different combinations of load,
reinforcement, sliding speed, and sliding distance.

Methods:

A Taguchi-based L16 orthogonal array methodology was used to set up the combination
of parameters. The mathematical models have been developed, and solved using non-dominating
sorting genetic algorithm-II [NSGA-II]. The solutions were predicted using NSGA-II were ranked
using Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution [TOPSIS]. The confirmation
experiments were performed at three suggested settings [rank 1 to rank 3]. In one of the patents
[CN113957284B] the development method for hybrid composites is discussed.

Results:

The results revealed that hardness of AA2024 hybrid green composite was observed to be
enhanced as compared to base aluminium alloy. Wear resistance of the AA2024/SiC/carbonized
eggshell composite was also improved. The patents on Al composite [US 3649227] revealed that
after the addition of reinforcement, the mechanical characteristics such as tensile strength was improved.

Conclusion:

Wear resistance is improved on AA2024/SiC/carbonized eggshell composite. With an
increase in reinforcement percentage and speed, the WR decreased from 29.16×10-5 g/min to
26×10-5 g/min. The CF increases from 0.4 to 0.46 with the increase in reinforcement percentage,
from 3% to 12%.
An Improved and Efficient Practical Process for the Synthesis of Enantiomerically Pure Solifenacin Succinate as an Antimuscarinic Agent
Authors: Kale Balkrishna Ramchandra , Hamid Hinna , Alam Mohammad Sarwar
Published: September 2024

Background:

Solifenacin succinate is an active pharmaceutical drug molecule that is
extremely effective in treating overactive bladder symptoms, such as urine incontinence, urgency,
and frequent urination. The free base is yellow oil, and the salt solifenacin succinate forms yellowish
crystals that are extremely stable and effective. Solifenacin is a very active antagonist due to its
potent muscarinic M3 receptor antagonist characteristics. Furthermore, solifenacin is effective in
the treatment of bowel syndrome (IBS) by blocking M3 receptors and a broad spectrum of bowel
dysfunction.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to develop a practical and highly efficient scalable synthesis
of enantiomerically pure solifenacin as an antimuscarinic agent.

Methods:

In this work, the Zn(OTf)2 catalyst was used to develop a novel, environmentally benign,
high-yielding, and robust protocol for the synthesis of enantiomerically pure solifenacin succinate.

Results:

The synthesis of enantiomerically pure solifenacin succinate was achieved in seven steps
using commercially available phenylethylamine and benzoyl chloride as the starting materials. We
carried out the reaction optimization by treatment of (S)-1-phenyl-3,4-dihydroisoquinoline-2(1H)-
carbonyl chloride and (R)-(-)-3-Quinuclidinolin in the presence of Zn(OTf)2 catalyst. Furthermore,
the solifenacin-free base was treated with succinic acid to afford its corresponding salt. The highlight
of this protocol is the use of 20 mol% Zn(OTf)2catalyst for the first time. The readily available
starting materials, robustness, easy operation, high yield, and low cost make the approach more
attractive and highly applicable.

Conclusion:

In summary, we developed a novel Zn(OTf)2-catalysed environmentally benign, highyielding,
and robust protocol for the synthesis of enantiomerically pure solifenacin succinate. The
proposed strategy is highly cost-effective and avoids the use of hazardous and unsafe sensitive,
strong bases as well as tedious work-up procedures. Effective synthesis was achieved using readily
available starting materials and reagents. Thus, the protocol is highly efficient, compatible, and
commercially viable for the synthesis of important solifenacin products.
Development and in vitro Evaluation of Nanoemulsion-based Polyherbal Hair Serum Formulations for Leave-in Hair Treatments
Authors: David Sheba R. , Rajabalaya Rajan
Published: September 2024

Background:

Hair is a prominent physical feature that is found in all mammals. Different
hair types will display different hair physicochemical properties (colour and appearance),
mechanical resistance and reactivity to chemical agents and surface properties.

Objectives:

This study aims to prepare polyherbal-based hair serum to conduct stability tests and
in-vitro evaluation tests to assess the efficacy of hair serum on different types of human hair
tresses for the purpose of leave-in hair treatments

Methods and Material:

The hair care formulations, such as hair serum, were prepared and their
stability was evaluated through a series of tests. The stability tests were conducted by evaluating
the organoleptic properties of the formulations, such as colour, odour, surface appearance, consistency,
and clarity, under various environmental conditions over a period of four weeks.

Results:

The relative viscosity of the hair serum is 7.84mPa/s, relative density is 0.997g/ml, and
an average particle size is 1079 ± 21.22 μm. Over the course of 4 weeks, the nanoemulsion-based
hair serum was stable between 25 – 40 °C and away from direct sunlight exposure.

Conclusion:

The formulated polyherbal hair serum can be used as a leave-in treatment to maintain
hair’s moisture balance while improving hair combability. Further improvements in the hair
product formulation can be made in the future to increase their potential for commercialisation
Unlocking Dendrimers Future Potential for Brain-Specific Drug Delivery
in Cerebroanoreach
Authors: Jain Aditya , Yadav Shikha , Khan Javed
Published: September 2024

The Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) makes it extremely difficult to get drugs to the brain,
yet highly branching macromolecules known as dendrimers show a lot of promise in this regard.
This review delves into the current and future prospects of dendrimers in facilitating brain-specific
drug delivery within the framework of cerebroanoreach. The unique structural features of dendrimers
allow for precise regulation of surface function, size, and shape, which are critical for targeting
specific cell types in the brain and increasing blood-brain barrier permeability. Second,
they can be conjugated with imaging agents, peptides, or pharmaceuticals thanks to their versatile
surface chemistry, which enhances diagnostic capabilities and treatment efficacy. Recent advances
in nanoformulations based on dendrimers have demonstrated promising improvements in
the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of medications, suggesting their possible use in therapeutic
contexts. Various obstacles, such as toxicity profiles and production bottlenecks that require
scaling up are also addressed, with a focus on ongoing research projects and potential remedies.
One potential solution to the problems with cerebroanoreach is the use of dendrimers for
brain-specific drug delivery; this could revolutionize the treatment of neurological diseases and
the precision of neurology diagnostics. By synthesizing current knowledge and future directions,
this review urges the continuance of interdisciplinary collaboration, which is crucial for fully realizing
the potential of dendrimers in neuroscience and therapeutic innovation.
Olanzapine-Induced Weight Gain and Glycolipid Metabolism Aberrations
in First-Episode and Antipsychotic-Naïve Schizophrenia Patients: A
Longitudinal Study
Authors: Li Shen , Zheng Doudou , Wang Wanyao , Liu Nannan , Li Yanzhe , Lu Chenghao , Dong Yeqing , Wang Xinxu , Li Wei-Dong , Li Jie
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Limited research has delved into the comprehensive impact of monotherapy on
weight and glycolipid metabolism in schizophrenia (SCZ) patients. Our study aims to longitudinally
investigate the multidimensional effects of olanzapine (OLA) monotherapy on weight and glycolipid
metabolism in first-episode and antipsychotic-naïve (FEAN) SCZ patients.

Methods:

A total of 74 FEAN-SCZ patients were recruited, as well as 58 sex- and age-matched
healthy controls. Eligible patients underwent a 4-week OLA treatment regimen, with weight assessments
conducted at baseline and week 4. Moreover, lipid profiles and fasting plasma glucose (FPG)
were measured at baseline and week 4. Insulin, leptin (LEP), and adiponectin (APN) levels were determined
using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits.

Results:

At baseline, FEAN-SCZ patients showed elevated levels of insulin, low-density lipoprotein
(LDL), impaired insulin sensitivity, and reduced levels of APN compared to the healthy controls. Following
4-week OLA treatment, patients showed an increase in body mass index (BMI) of 0.96 kg/m2.
Additionally, FPG, quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI), HOMA-insulin sensitivity
index (HOMA-ISI), and fasting plasma glucose to insulin ratio (G/I) displayed significant decreases,
while insulin, HOMA-IR, and LEP levels showed significant increases. Stepwise regression analysis
revealed that baseline FPG independently predicted the change in BMI after 4 weeks of OLA treatment.

Conclusion:

FEAN-SCZ patients exhibited pre-existing alterations in glucose homeostasis. After 4
weeks of OLA treatment, SCZ patients experienced significant weight gain, deteriorating insulin resistance,
and increased LEP levels. In addition, baseline FPG emerged as a predictor of BMI changes
after 4 weeks of OLA treatment.
Surfactin Biosynthesis and its Potential Applications in Agriculture and Food System
Authors: Chen Xiaoyu , Liu Huawei , Lu Zhaoxin
Published: September 2024

Surfactin is a biosurfactant of the lipopeptide-type that has excellent physicochemical properties and biological activity. However, surfactin’s high cost and low productivity of the wild strains restrict its large-scale manufacturing and application. Hence, numerous engineered bacteria have been utilized to boost surfactin biosynthesis. The current review includes information on the structure, physicochemical properties, and antibacterial mechanism of surfactin. This article also summarizes the regulatory network of surfactin biosynthesis, the molecular modification strategies, and the major function of surfactin, as well as its applications in agriculture, livestock, aquaculture and the food field. Finally, future prospects for surfactin research are discussed.
Fengycin Production and Its Applications in Plant Growth and Postharvest Quality
Authors: Bie Xiaomei
Published: September 2024

Fengycin is a cyclic lipopeptide produced mainly by the Bacillus genus,
which is structurally composed of a β-hydroxy fatty acid and 10 amino acids. The
biosynthesis of fengycin is catalyzed by large non-ribosomal peptide synthetases.
Fengycin is an amphiphilic molecule with strong surface activity and displays strong
antimicrobial activity. In this chapter, the molecular structure and biological properties
of fengycin, and the function and catalyzing mechanism of fengycin multienzyme were
summarized. Multiple antimicrobial mechanisms of fengycin and the strategies for
increasing the production of fengycin were introduced. Fengycin has the advantages of
low toxicity, biodegradation and high stability. Its applications, including biological
control of plant pathogens, bioremediation of a contaminated environment, postharvest
disease control of fruit and vegetables, food processing and preservation, etc., were
reviewed finally.
Bacteriophage Control of Foodborne Pathogens in Food Production
Authors: Liang Lu , Connerton Ian F.
Published: September 2024

The application of bacteriophages (phages) that target and kill bacteria to
safeguard foods and food production facilities has attracted attention over the last
decade. As phages are often already present in foods and food production settings, their
specificity and antimicrobial activity against foodborne bacterial pathogens can be
harnessed to affect biocontrol/bio-sanitization with minimal risk to the product or the
consumer. Efficacy studies on foodborne bacterial pathogens have established the
utility of the approach, and these, coupled with the inherent safety of phages, have led
to regulatory approvals and the marketing of phage products for food safety. Here, we
review the supporting research that demonstrates the effects of phage on foods and
food contact surfaces with specific reference to the challenges of controlling bacteria
that can resist conventional cleaning processes either due to adaption and/or refuge in
microbial biofilms.
Homebody: Art Therapy and the Art of Possessions
Authors: Whitaker Pamela
Published: September 2024

This concept paper is proposing the inclusion of the home studio as an art making location for art therapy trainees who assemble personal belongings, within the context of their domestic lives. A collection of belongings can become an installation which brings together associations to identities in juxtaposition. The material culture of art therapy trainees, the objects which they live by, is a new contribution to art therapy pedagogy, as it designates the art of personal collections as a life archive (or accumulation) that is close at hand and already available. This collection of household artefacts teaches students how to honour the object collections of their clients, who are experts with lived experience of how to arrange legacies of gathering, consumption, inheritance, and gifted items. What follows is a proposal describing how home arrangements can signify personal associations to meaning and to an ethos of respecting what becomes us in terms of what we already own. The home studio is a key concept in this exploration of material culture as it relates to art therapy. This is a recognition of how a curation of possessions (where we place our belongings) is noteworthy as an act of agency and reflective practice within art therapy training and within the lives of those who participate in art therapy services. Recognising the significance of one’s lived-with objects, as navigation points of identity, values the culture of their curator who identifies the meaning of what they own as material assets.
Impact of Health Informatics Analyst Education on Job Role, Career Transition, and Skill Development: Survey Study
Authors: Lee Kye Hwa , Lee Jae Ho , Lee Yura , Lee Hyunna , Lee Ji Sung , Jang Hye Jeon , Lee Kun Hee , Han Jeong Hyun , Jang SuJung
Published: September 2024

Background

Professionals with expertise in health informatics play a crucial role in the digital health sector. Despite efforts to train experts in this field, the specific impact of such training, especially for individuals from diverse academic backgrounds, remains undetermined.

Objective

This study therefore aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an intensive health informatics training program on graduates with respect to their job roles, transitions, and competencies and to provide insights for curriculum design and future research.

Methods

A survey was conducted among 206 students who completed the Advanced Health Informatics Analyst program between 2018 and 2022. The questionnaire comprised four categories: (1) general information about the respondent, (2) changes before and after program completion, (3) the impact of the program on professional practice, and (4) continuing education requirements.

Results

The study received 161 (78.2%) responses from the 206 students. Graduates of the program had diverse academic backgrounds and consequently undertook various informatics tasks after their training. Most graduates (117/161, 72.7%) are now involved in tasks such as data preprocessing, visualizing results for better understanding, and report writing for data processing and analysis. Program participation significantly improved job performance (P=.03), especially for those with a master’s degree or higher (odds ratio 2.74, 95% CI 1.08‐6.95) and those from regions other than Seoul or Gyeonggi-do (odds ratio 10.95, 95% CI 1.08‐6.95). A substantial number of respondents indicated that the training had a substantial influence on their career transitions, primarily by providing a better understanding of job roles and generating intrinsic interest in the field.

Conclusions

The integrated practical education program was effective in addressing the diverse needs of trainees from various fields, enhancing their capabilities, and preparing them for the evolving industry demands. This study emphasizes the value of providing specialized training in health informatics for graduates regardless of their discipline.
Engagement and Acceptability of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Daily Life in Early Psychosis: Secondary Findings From a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: van Aubel Evelyne , Vaessen Thomas , Uyttebroek Lotte , Steinhart Henrietta , Beijer-Klippel Annelie , Batink Tim , van Winkel Ruud , de Haan Lieuwe , van der Gaag Mark , van Amelsvoort Thérèse , Marcelis Machteld , Schirmbeck Frederike , Reininghaus Ulrich , Myin-Germeys Inez
Published: September 2024

Background

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is promising in the treatment of early psychosis. Augmenting face-to-face ACT with mobile health ecological momentary interventions may increase its treatment effects and empower clients to take treatment into their own hands.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate and predict treatment engagement with and acceptability of acceptance and commitment therapy in daily life (ACT-DL), a novel ecological momentary intervention for people with an ultrahigh risk state and a first episode of psychosis.

Methods

In the multicenter randomized controlled trial, 148 individuals with ultrahigh risk or first-episode psychosis aged 15-65 years were randomized to treatment as usual only (control) or to ACT-DL combined with treatment as usual (experimental), consisting of 8 face-to-face sessions augmented with an ACT-based smartphone app, delivering ACT skills and techniques in daily life. For individuals in the intervention arm, we collected data on treatment engagement with and acceptability of ACT-DL during and after the intervention. Predictors of treatment engagement and acceptability included baseline demographic, clinical, and functional outcomes.

Results

Participants who received ACT-DL in addition to treatment as usual (n=71) completed a mean of 6 (SD 3) sessions, with 59% (n=42) of participants completing all sessions. App engagement data (n=58) shows that, on a weekly basis, participants used the app 13 times and were compliant with 6 of 24 (25%) notifications. Distribution plots of debriefing scores (n=46) show that 85%-96% of participants reported usefulness on all acceptability items to at least some extent (scores ≥2; 1=no usefulness) and that 91% (n=42) of participants reported perceived burden by number and length of notifications (scores ≥2; 1=no burden). Multiple linear regression models were fitted to predict treatment engagement and acceptability. Ethnic minority backgrounds predicted lower notification response compliance (B=–4.37; P=.01), yet higher app usefulness (B=1.25; P=.049). Negative (B=–0.26; P=.01) and affective (B=0.14; P=.04) symptom severity predicted lower and higher ACT training usefulness, respectively. Being female (B=–1.03; P=.005) predicted lower usefulness of the ACT metaphor images on the app.

Conclusions

Our results corroborate good treatment engagement with and acceptability of ACT-DL in early psychosis. We provide recommendations for future intervention optimization.

Trial Registration

OMON NL46439.068.13; https://onderzoekmetmensen.nl/en/trial/24803
Dropout in a Longitudinal Survey of Amazon Mechanical Turk Workers With Low Back Pain: Observational Study
Authors: Qureshi Nabeel , Hays Ron D , Herman Patricia M
Published: September 2024

Background

Surveys of internet panels such as Amazon’s Mechanical Turk (MTurk) are common in health research. Nonresponse in longitudinal studies can limit inferences about change over time.

Objective

This study aimed to (1) describe the patterns of survey responses and nonresponse among MTurk members with back pain, (2) identify factors associated with survey response over time, (3) assess the impact of nonresponse on sample characteristics, and (4) assess how well inverse probability weighting can account for differences in sample composition.

Methods

We surveyed adult MTurk workers who identified as having back pain. We report participation trends over 3 survey waves and use stepwise logistic regression to identify factors related to survey participation in successive waves.

Results

A total of 1678 adults participated in wave 1. Of those, 983 (59%) participated in wave 2 and 703 (42%) in wave 3. Participants who did not drop out took less time to complete previous surveys (30 min vs 35 min in wave 1, P<.001; 24 min vs 26 min in wave 2, P=.02) and reported having fewer health conditions (5.88 vs 6.6, P<.001). In multivariate models predicting responding at wave 2, lower odds of participation were associated with more time to complete the baseline survey (odds ratio [OR] 0.98, 95% CI 0.97-0.99), being Hispanic (compared with non-Hispanic, OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.49-0.96), having a bachelor’s degree as their terminal degree (compared with all other levels of education, OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.46-0.73), having more pain interference and intensity (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.64-0.89), and having more health conditions. In contrast, older respondents (older than 45 years age compared with 18-24 years age) were more likely to respond to the wave 2 survey (OR 2.63 and 3.79, respectively) and those whose marital status was divorced (OR 1.81) and separated (OR 1.77) were also more likely to respond to the wave 2 survey. Weighted analysis showed slight differences in sample demographics and conditions and larger differences in pain assessments, particularly for those who responded to wave 2.

Conclusions

Longitudinal studies on MTurk have large, differential dropouts between waves. This study provided information about the individuals more likely to drop out over time, which can help researchers prepare for future surveys.
Hospital Is Not the Home: Lessons From Implementing Remote Technology to Support Acute Inpatient and Transitional Care in the Home in the United States and United Kingdom
Authors: Wilkes Matt , Kramer Annabel , Pugmire Juliana , Pilkington Christopher , Zaniello Benjamin , Zahradka Nicole
Published: September 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic, patient preference, and economic opportunity are shifting acute care from the hospital to the home, supported by the transformation in remote monitoring technology. Monitoring patients with digital medical devices gives unprecedented insight into their physiology. However, this technology does not exist in a vacuum. Distinguishing pathology from physiological variability, user error, or device limitations is challenging. In a hospital, patients are monitored in a contrived environment. Monitoring at home instead captures activities of daily living alongside patients’ trajectory of disease and recovery. Both settings make for “noisy” data. However, we are familiar with hospital noise, accounting for it in our practice and perceptions of normal. Home monitoring as a diagnostic intervention introduces a new set of downstream consequences, dependent on device, cadence of collection, adherence, duration, alarm thresholds, and escalation criteria. We must accept greater ambiguity and contextualize vital signs. All devices balance accuracy with acceptability, so compromises are inevitable and perfect data should not be expected. Alarms must be specific as well as sensitive, balancing clinical risk with capacity for response. By setting expectations around data from the home, we can smooth the adoption of remote monitoring and accelerate the transition of acute care.
Implementation of Regular Lifestyle Counseling During Long-Term Follow-Up Care of Childhood Cancer Survivors: Monocentric Prospective Study
Authors: Richter Franziska , Kronziel Lea Louisa , König Inke , Langer Thorsten , Gebauer Judith
Published: September 2024

Background

Many childhood cancer survivors (CCS) develop treatment-related late effects, including an increased risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome. A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of associated comorbidities. Therefore, at-risk CCS could benefit from lifestyle counseling during regular long-term follow-up (LTFU).

Objective

We implemented a new form of care to decrease the long-term morbidity among CCS and to gain new insights into the lifestyle of those patients.

Methods

Over a 1-year study period, lifestyle counseling was integrated into LTFU care. Metabolic disorders, including hypercholesterolemia, diabetes mellitus, overweight or underweight, and low activity levels, were assessed as screening parameters for various risk groups. The perspectives of CCS, physicians, and sports scientists were compared to identify those with the highest needs. Each lifestyle counseling included general recommendations for physical activity, as well as an assessment of individual preferences for and barriers to the implementation of a healthy lifestyle. A follow-up appointment after 1 month was performed.

Results

Of the 155 CCS aged 18 to 63 years (n=100, 65% female and n=55, 35% male), 112 (72%) had an indication for lifestyle counseling, identified by physicians, sports scientists, or the CCS themselves. Metabolic disorders affected 45% (n=70) of these CCS, and 46% (n=72) did not meet recommended activity levels. A total of 120 (77%) CCS received lifestyle counseling, including 8 initially uninterested individuals who became open to recommendations. Those with intensive cancer treatment history showed the greatest need. A total of 65 (54%) CCS were advised to change their lifestyle in both areas (diet and exercise) while 51 (43%) CCS received recommendations for only exercise (n=43 CCS, 36%) or diet (n=8 CCS, 7%). A total of 4 (3%) CCS, although interested in counseling, received no advice, as they already met the recommendations. Follow-up revealed high adherence to recommendations and successful integration into daily lives. In total, 97% (n=150) of survivors indicated that the provision of lifestyle counseling during LTFU would be generally beneficial.

Conclusions

Incorporating specialized health care professionals such as sports scientists into survivorship care enhances the multidisciplinary approach of LTFU care. Promoting a healthy lifestyle by offering guideline-based lifestyle counseling is broadly accepted among CCS and may reduce long-term morbidity.