bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TSCH in Edge IoT: A Comprehensive Survey of Research Challenges
Authors: Rekha D. , Pavithra L.
Published: February 2025

Time‐slotted channel hopping (TSCH) is a promising approach for efficient communication in Internet of Things (IoT) networks, with its significance extending to the emerging landscape of Edge computing. This survey article investigates TSCH within the framework of IoT, exploring its advantages, challenges, and applications. TSCH divides time into slots and dynamically hops between channels, enabling multiple devices to share the same frequency band while mitigating interference. The study aims to address existing research issues and motivations by providing an innovative methodology for examining TSCH's role in IoT communication. The benefits of TSCH, such as improved reliability, energy efficiency, and scalability, are discussed, alongside the challenges associated with its implementation in IoT networks, including synchronization, channel selection, slot allocation, and the energy‐performance trade‐off. Various techniques and algorithms proposed in the literature to tackle these challenges are reviewed, offering a comprehensive analysis of their effectiveness. The potential applications of TSCH in domains like smart homes, industrial automation, smart grids, and healthcare are explored, with a focus on the unique requirements and characteristics of each domain. How TSCH can effectively address the communication needs of these applications is highlighted. Performance evaluation of TSCH in IoT networks is presented through a review of existing studies, simulation models, and experimental deployments. Key performance metrics, such as packet delivery ratio, latency, energy consumption, and network capacity, are discussed. The paper concludes by summarizing the key findings and emphasizing TSCH's impact on IoT communication protocols. This paper serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners involved in IoT communications, providing insights into TSCH's benefits, challenges, and applications in IoT networks.
Purple Yam Anthocyanin Forestalling Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Intestine Damage by Selectively Promoting Lactococcus
Authors: Qiu Pingfei , Wang Qin , Li Xiaochun , Bao Ruiying , Cai Qingying , Peng ZeRu , Huang LiangMin , Shi Huiyu , Zhang Haiwen , Wang Xuemei
Published: February 2025

The mechanism of anthocyanin in alleviating intestine injury of pigs is worth pursuing due to the higher similarity of physiological structure between human beings and pigs than rodents. Herein, we investigated the mechanism by which anthocyanin improves gut damage induced with lipopolysaccharide and further confirmed this mechanism using fecal microbiota transplantation. Thirty‐two piglets were randomly divided into four treatments: control group (Control), model group (LPS), prophylactic anthocyanin group (An‐LPS), and prophylactic fecal microbiota transplantation group (FMT‐LPS). The results showed that oxidative stress induced by lipopolysaccharide increased the expression of p‐p65, Bax, and Keap1 and decreased the expression of Nrf2, Occludin, and Claudin‐1 in jejunum. However, anthocyanin and its fecal microbiota suspension reversed these influences. Meanwhile, anthocyanin selectively improved certain microbiota, including Lactococcus, leading to distinct metabolic profiles. These differences were in favor of activating antioxidant‐related signaling pathway, including Nrf2/Keap1 and inhibiting pro‐inflammatory signaling pathway such as NF‐κB, which alleviated gut inflammation and significantly increased the expression of intestinal tight junction, such as Occludin and Claudin‐1. Moreover, compared to LPS, the serum antioxidant enzyme activity and IL‐10 content were increased in An‐LPS. In conclusion, anthocyanin ameliorated gut oxidative stress through antioxidant‐ and inflammation‐related signaling pathways; meanwhile, gut microbiota and metabolites play a nonsubstitutable role in this process.
Allergic Potential of Medicinal Plants From the Asteraceae Family
Authors: Ključevšek Tim , Kreft Samo
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

The popularity of herbal medicine continues to increase in modern health care practices; therefore, it is imperative to recognize and address potential risks associated with its everyday use. The Asteraceae family is one of the most extensively utilized medicinal plant families due to its abundance and diversity of bioactive secondary metabolites. The aim of this article is to review the current understanding of the allergic potential of the most significant medicinal plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family.

Methods

This review utilized various search engines, including PubMed Central, Cochrane Central, Google Scholar, and others, up to January 2024, considering only articles in English.

Results

Asteraceae have long been acknowledged as important sensitizers within occupational environments, eliciting both immediate and delayed hypersensitivity reactions. Recent investigations have indicated the presence of panallergens in Asteraceae pollen, predominantly identified in Ambrosia artemisiifolia and Artemisia spp., which are pervasive across many species within the family. These panallergens contribute to cross‐reactivity phenomena, serving as primary triggers for pollinosis and pollen‐food or pollen‐medicine allergy syndrome. In addition, the diverse array of secondary metabolites present in the Asteraceae family, particularly sesquiterpene lactones (SLs), possesses sensitizing properties capable of inducing skin irritation and inflammation. Moreover, SLs have the potential to incite systemic reactions, posing a risk to sensitized individuals upon ingestion. Although extensive cross‐reactivity among SLs has been reported, further investigations are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and implications.

Conclusion

As numerous uncertainties persist regarding critical Asteraceae allergens and sensitizers further research is critical to augment our understanding of the potential risks posed by Asteraceae herbal medicine.
Neuromuscular Blocking Agents and Tracheal Intubation: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Effects on Laryngeal Complications and Intubating Conditions
Authors: Li Wanhong , Lin Zhongyuan , Li Fen , Huang Kecheng , Dou Yunling , Fang Jieyu
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

The use of neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) in tracheal intubation is widely accepted in anesthetic induction, but adverse effects are possible. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to compare influence of use and nonuse of NMBAs on incidence of laryngeal complications and intubating conditions in surgical patients.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials comparing use of NMBAs with either placebo or no treatment for oral tracheal intubation in adult patients under general anesthesia. Studies were evaluated using a risk‐of‐bias assessment. We conducted random‐effects or fixed‐effects meta‐analyses on extracted data and calculated risk ratio (RR), risk difference (RD), and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Nine trials with 1176 participants were included. Incidence of postoperative sore throat or hoarseness did not differ between groups receiving and not receiving NMBAs at 24 h (RR: 1.18; 95% CI: 0.96–1.46; I2 = 45%), 48 h (RR: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.46–1.52; I2 = 42%), or 72 h (RD: −0.00; 95% CI: −0.08 to 0.07; I2 = 59%). Compared with use of NMBAs, induction without NMBAs reduced the occurrence of acceptable intubating conditions (RR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.67–0.94; I2 = 92%) and with increased risk for poor intubating conditions (RR: 4.77; 95% CI: 3.20–7.10; I2 = 0%). The pharmacological interventions for hemodynamic changes after intubation did not differ significantly between the NMBAs and non‐NMBAs groups (RR: 1.02; 95% CI: 0.53–1.95; I2 = 78%).

Conclusion

Endotracheal intubation without NMBAs does not increase the incidence of postoperative hoarseness or sore throat in adult surgical patients, which may be considered as a safe and effective technique of anesthesia induction. Although NMBAs use was associated with acceptable intubating conditions and reduced risk for poor intubation conditions.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42021284813
Both medial closing wedge and lateral opening wedge distal femoral osteotomy for valgus knee deformity can maintain leg length: A radiographic comparative study
Authors: Onishi Shintaro , Kim Youngji , Adebayo Oliver , Nakayama Hiroshi , Jacquet Christophe , Ollivier Matthieu
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To compare the radiological outcomes of medial closed wedge distal femoral osteotomy (MCWDFO) and lateral open wedge distal femoral osteotomy (LOWDFO), with a focus on evaluating leg length discrepancy (LLD). It was hypothesised that MCWDFO would result in a greater reduction in leg length compared to LOWDFO.

Methods

Patients who underwent MCWDFO or LOWDFO for valgus deformity at a single institution between 2014 and 2022 with a minimum follow‐up of 1 year were included. Radiological assessment included hip–knee–ankle (HKA) angle, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), length of the whole leg and femur and LLD. The difference between pre‐ and post‐operative values for each parameter is expressed as Δ. The radiological outcomes were statistically evaluated for each procedure.

Results

Fifty‐two patients (26 MCWDFO and 26 LOWDFO) were included. No significant differences were observed between the two groups with respect to demographic data and radiological parameters such as HKA, mLDFA and MPTA. Although Δ length of the femur decreased post‐MCWDFO (−2.7 ± 0.6 mm) and increased post‐LOWDFO (+2.7 ± 0.4 mm), the Δ length of the whole leg post‐MCWDFO decreased (−0.5 ± 3.8 mm) and increased post‐LOWDFO (+1.7 ± 2.6 mm) (p < 0.001). The straight‐lengthening effect on the length of whole leg was significantly greater in MCWDFO than in LOWDFO (+2.0 ± 4.1 mm vs. −1.1 ± 2.5 mm, p > 0.001).

Conclusions

The straight‐lengthening effect of alignment correction minimises changes in overall leg length, regardless of the specific DFO technique.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Can CMIP6 Models Accurately Reproduce Terrestrial Evapotranspiration Across China?
Authors: Shen Hui , Li Jianduo , Wu Guocan , Ye Aizhong , Mao Yuna
Published: February 2025

Terrestrial evapotranspiration (ET) plays a fundamental role in the climate system. The Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) provides a valuable framework for assessing global climate model performance, but gaps remain in evaluating its ET estimates, particularly in China. To fill this gap, we employed the Global Land Evaporation Amsterdam Model (GLEAM) and the water balance ET method to validate the CMIP6 ET outputs from 1980 to 2014 at both national and river basin scales. Key findings include: (1) GLEAM ET performs comparably to the water balance method, making it reliable for validating CMIP6 ET outputs. From 1980 to 2014, the annual mean ET in GLEAM for China ranges from 355 to 411 mm/year. In contrast, most CMIP6 models overestimate ET, with the multi‐model ensemble (MME) mean ranging from 524 to 542 mm/year, showing considerable variation among models. Spatially, the MME overestimates ET across over 90% of China. Bayesian model averaging (BMA) results align closely with reference data, with overestimation concentrated in southwest China. (2) At the national scale, CMIP6 trends range from −0.36 to 0.58 mm/year2, which contrasts sharply with the GLEAM trend of 1.27 mm/year2. At the basin scale, most models overestimate annual ET compared to GLEAM, with discrepancies particularly evident in the major river basins. The smallest difference in ET trend simulation occurs in the Northwest River basin, where model distributions are more concentrated, while the largest discrepancies appear in the Pearl River basin, where model performance is more scattered. Furthermore, signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) analysis reveals high ensemble consistency in regions such as the Haihe, Yellow, Yangtze, Pearl and Songliao River basins, indicating more reliable model performance in these areas. This study contributes to enhancing the reliability and accuracy of climate projections, which is essential for informed decision‐making and policy formulation in atmospheric science.
Landmarks to guide femoral insertion in lateral patellofemoral ligament reconstruction: An in vivo assessment of isometry
Authors: Boot Miriam R. , van de Groes Sebastiaan A. W. , Tanck Esther , Janssen Dennis
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Lateral patellofemoral ligament (LPFL) reconstruction addresses medial patellar instability, but uncertainty regarding the optimal femoral attachment site may affect isometry and increase complication rates. This study aimed to establish landmarks for the femoral attachment of the LPFL graft based on in vivo isometry during active knee extension.

Methods

Dynamic computed tomography scans of 104 knees from 58 healthy participants were employed to examine flexion‐extension movements. Length changes were assessed in approximately 1335 virtual LPFL graft fibres, which extended from the proximal one third of the patellar height to attachments across the femoral condyle. Four methods were evaluated for achieving (near‐)isometric LPFL graft behaviour: three radiographic methods (R1–R3) and one anatomic method (A). Method R1 positioned the femoral attachment at a lateral equivalent of Schöttle's point, Method R2 at the centre of the trochlear groove arc, Method R3 at the centre of the lateral trochlear ridge arc and Method A at a point relative to the lateral epicondyle.

Results

Median length changes during extension were 7.7 mm (Method R1), 3.4 mm (Method R2), 2.7 mm (Method R3) and 3.0 mm (Method A). Method R3 demonstrated significantly smaller length changes compared to Methods R1 (p < 0.001) and R2 (p < 0.01), while Method A yielded smaller changes than Method R1 (p < 0.001). Notably, Method R1 resulted in continuous LPFL graft tightening throughout knee motion, whereas Methods R2, R3 and A showed initial tightening until 20° flexion, followed by slackening and near‐isometric behaviour.

Conclusion

Femoral graft attachment is best determined at the centre of the lateral trochlear ridge arc (Method R3) or 15.1 mm anterior and 3.4 mm proximal to the lateral epicondyle (Method A). These guidelines help improve surgical precision and minimize complications in LPFL reconstructions.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Efficient and Stable 0D Cs3Cu2Br5:Mn Single Crystals for Low‐Dose High‐Resolution X‐Ray Imaging
Authors: Wang Yujie , Wen Xuemin , Ran Peng , Peng Chen , Yang Fan , Yang Yang (Michael) , Wu Yuntao
Published: February 2025

Scintillators, essential component of radiation detectors, have garnered significant attention for their pivotal roles in homeland security, medical imaging, and nondestructive inspection applications. However, existing scintillators still face challenges in simultaneously achieving high scintillation efficiency, stability, and low toxicity. Herein, a novel Cs3Cu2Br5:Mn single crystal (SC) scintillator, utilizing nontoxic Mn2+ as activator, is developed. The introduction of Mn2⁺ into the 0D Cs3Cu2Br5 host induces a green emission with a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 92.9%. Compared to undoped Cs3Cu2Br5, the Mn2+‐doped one exhibits a 120% increase in steady‐state scintillation efficiency, reaching 14 000 photons MeV−1. Moreover, the X‐ray low detection limit improves from 49.3 to 16.8 nGyair s−1. The Cs3Cu2Br5:Mn SC also achieves an ultra‐high spatial resolution of 24 line pairs (lp) mm−1 when utilized as a flat scintillation screen. This study demonstrates a promising strategy to design high‐performance scintillators by doping eco‐friendly metal, offering new avenues for advancements in radiation detection technologies.
Global Classical Solutions for a Chemotaxis System of Attraction–Repulsion With Singular Sensitivity
Authors: Amalorpava Josephine S. , Karthikeyan S. , Shangerganesh L. , Yadhavan K.
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the singular sensitive parabolic attraction–repulsion chemotaxis system with two chemicals subjected to the Neumann boundary condition. Two chemical substances impact the species involved in this biological process. Both signals come from the same species, but a higher concentration of one attracts the species while a lesser concentration repels it. Using the energy estimate approach, we explore the global existence of classical solutions of the proposed model in a spatial domain with a dimension greater than one.
Multipoint Stimulation Motor Unit Number Estimation of the Extensor Indicis and Anconeus After Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Adewuyi Adenike A. , Hashemi Mahdis , Khanna Shreyaa , Berger Michael J. , Franz Colin K.
Published: February 2025

Introduction/Aims

Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) significantly impairs upper limb function, affecting patients' quality of life. Nerve transfer surgery can restore arm and hand function, but its success depends on the health of infralesional lower motor neurons (LMNs). LMN abnormalities are prevalent in muscles targeted for nerve transfer, particularly those innervated by the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) and radial nerve, essential for wrist extension and hand opening. This study evaluates the health of infralesional LMNs in cervical SCI using multipoint stimulation motor unit number estimation (MPS‐MUNE). We assessed motor unit counts in the C7‐innervated anconeus and the predominantly C8‐innervated extensor indicis (EI) to determine their viability as targets for nerve transfer surgery.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, two‐center cohort study using MPS‐MUNE to evaluate 15 individuals with cervical SCI (26 limbs) and 17 healthy controls.

Results

Compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and MUNE values were significantly lower in SCI patients compared to controls (EI CMAP: 2.0 mV ± 1.57, EI MUNE: 33 ± 30.5; anconeus CMAP: 2.7 mV ± 1.9, anconeus MUNE: 39 ± 50.6 versus controls: EI CMAP: 6.6 mV ± 1.0, EI MUNE: 137 ± 33.9; anconeus CMAP: 6.6 mV ± 1.3, anconeus MUNE: 146 ± 42.3). Test–retest reliability for EI and anconeus were 0.84 (CI: 0.45–0.95) and 0.78 (CI: 0.36–0.93), respectively.

Discussion

Significant LMN loss was observed after cervical SCI. MPS‐MUNE shows potential for evaluating LMN health, highlighting its importance for assessing nerve transfer targets and planning interventions.
Hydrodissection With or Without Corticosteroid Versus Corticosteroid‐Only Injection for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Double‐Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ghorbanpour Sahar , Abdi Mina , Naeemi Negin , Rahimibarghani Sarvenaz , Hosseini Maryam , Emami Razavi Seyede Zahra , Azadvari Mohaddeseh
Published: February 2025

Introduction/Aims

Hydrodissection is an emerging technique in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome. We aimed to compare the efficacy of hydrodissection with or without corticosteroid versus intra‐carpal corticosteroid injection for treating carpal tunnel syndrome.

Methods

In total, 66 wrists with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome were allocated to three study arms. Under ultrasound guidance, patients received a single injection consisting of 1 mL (40 mg) triamcinolone acetonide, 1 mL lidocaine, and 3 mL of saline, or 1 mL lidocaine, and 4 mL saline. Another group received 1 mL intra‐carpal triamcinolone acetonide (40 mg) without ultrasound guidance. All participants were followed for 3 months post‐injection. The primary outcome was the median nerve cross‐sectional area. Secondary outcomes were symptom severity, functional status, electrodiagnostic test results, hang grip, and pain.

Results

Analyses showed a significant reduction in symptom severity, improvement in function, decrease in median cross‐sectional area, and improvement in electrodiagnostic evaluations for all the interventions 3 months after the injections (all p < 0.05). However, there was no significant improvement in muscle strength with any of the interventions. Sensory distal latency decreased (p ≤ 0.004), and sensory nerve conduction velocity increased in all groups (p ≤ 0.001). For motor nerve evaluations, distal latency decreased significantly with the three interventions (p ≤ 0.003), while nerve conduction velocity in the forearm segment increased in the steroid‐only group (p < 0.011). Group comparisons did not reveal any significant differences.

Discussion

All interventions were effective in improving symptom severity, function, and electrodiagnostic and ultrasound measures, with no significant differences observed between the treatments.

Trial Registration: The trial was registered prospectively at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials website http://www.irct.ir/, a WHO Primary Register set up with the registration number IRCT20210613051566N1
Unravelling the nexus of stroke and dementia: Deciphering the role of secondary neurodegeneration in orchestrating cognitive decline
Authors: Stuckey Shannon M. , Hood Rebecca J. , Ong Lin Kooi , Bilecki Isabella M. , Collins‐Praino Lyndsey E. , Turner Renée J.
Published: February 2025

Stroke is the leading cause of acquired disability. The development of acute ischemic stroke treatments, such as mechanical thrombectomy and tissue plasminogen activator, has resulted in more patients surviving the initial insult. However, long‐term complications, such as post‐stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) and dementia (PSD), are at an all‐time high. Notably, 80% of stroke survivors suffer from cognitive impairment, and a history of stroke doubles a patient's lifetime risk of developing dementia. A combination of greater life expectancy, an increase in the number of strokes in young individuals, and improved survival have inherently increased the number of years patients are living post‐stroke, highlighting the critical need to understand the long‐term effects of stroke, including how pathological changes in the brain might give rise to functional and behavioral changes in stroke survivors. Even with this increased risk of PSCI and PSD in stroke survivors, understanding of how the stroke itself develops into these conditions remains incomplete. Recently, secondary neurodegeneration (SND) following stroke has been linked with PSCI and PSD. SND is the degeneration of brain regions outside the original stroke site. Degeneration in these sites is thought to arise due to functional diaschisis with the infarct core; however, observation of SND pathology in multiple regions without direct connectivity to the stroke infarct suggests that the degeneration in these regions is likely more complex. Moreover, pathological hallmarks of dementia, such as a deposition of neurodegenerative proteins and iron, cell death, inflammation and blood–brain barrier alterations, have all been found in regions such as the thalamus, hippocampus, basal ganglia, amygdala and prefrontal cortex following stroke. Hence, in this review, we present the current understanding of PSCI and PSD in the context of SND and outline how remote anatomical and molecular changes may drive the development of these conditions.
Multi‐Phase‐Field Method for Dynamic Fracture in Composite Materials Based on Reduced‐Order‐Homogenization
Authors: Liu Nianqi , Yuan Zifeng
Published: February 2025

In this manuscript, we extend the quasi‐static multi‐phase‐field method for composite materials to the dynamic case. In the dynamic multi‐phase‐field method, each phase of the composites has its individual phase field, and the degradation of each phase is governed by its respective phase field. The macroscopic response is then obtained by averaging and homogenization approaches through the reduced‐order‐homogenization (ROH) framework. Through the ROH and the Francfort‐Marigo variational principle, we can obtain the equations that govern the motion of the composites and the evolution of each phase field. This method is capable of capturing the characteristics of dynamic fracture, such as crack branching, without the need for any additional bifurcation criterion. Moreover, it can capture dynamic fracture patterns in composite materials, including matrix cracking, fiber breakage, and delamination. The corresponding numerical algorithm that includes spatial and temporal discretization is developed. An implicit, staggered Newton‐Raphson iterative scheme is implemented to solve the nonlinear coupled equations. Finally, this method is tested with several sets of dynamic fracture benchmarks, which demonstrates good agreement with the experiments and other numerical methods.
Anti‐Consumers and Treasure‐Hunters: Can Online Sustainable Fashion Challenges Shift Consumer Behaviour?
Authors: Faludi Julianna , Füller Kamilla
Published: February 2025

Two types of social media challenges were compared: the Second‐hand September and the No New Clothes challenge, both restraining consumption of new clothes. First, a survey (n = 416) measured the motivation of environmentally conscious consumers to participate in online consumption reduction challenges. Factor analysis and multilinear regressions were used to test the predictive power of anti‐fashion preferences, environmental and ethical concern in relation to consumption reduction. A second study examined the motivations and attitudes of participants of two No New Clothes challenges in reducing their fashion consumption on five dimensions, such as environmental, ethical, animal protection, frugality and personal curiosity; and about their willingness to continue with not buying clothes after the challenge, with additional qualitative insights that shed light on the main barriers and opportunities associated with the reduction of fashion consumption. The study also situates anti‐consumption, voluntary simplicity, and second‐hand clothing within the context of sustainable fashion. Findings suggest that consumption reduction is primarily driven by ethical concerns and a desire to learn about sustainable fashion, with anti‐fashion attitudes influencing participation. Results indicate that second‐hand clothing might be a trigger for consumption. Study 2 confirmed that after the one‐year challenge, 68% of participants prioritised second‐hand purchases, followed by ethical brands (27.5%). Participants motivated by frugality were less likely to continue anti‐consumption practices and more prone to reverting to fast fashion due to its accessibility. Anti‐consumers were driven by voluntary simplicity and willingly took on active roles in promoting sustainable practices. The comparative analysis of two online challenges—Secondhand September and No New Clothes—highlights the role of social media in fostering anti‐consumption engagement and behavioural change, offering a fresh perspective on how digital platforms can drive sustainable practices, and draws conclusions on anti‐consumption motivations and practices. The analysis also sheds light on the difference between treasure hunting and anti‐consumption attitudes.
Facial Feminization Surgery and Mental Health Resource Utilization: A Retrospective Institutional Review
Authors: Huynh Pauline P. , Kleinberger Andrew , Brandstetter Kathleyn , Chou David W. , Pressman Alice R. , Shih Charles
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aims to assess the effects of facial feminization surgery (FFS) on mental health resource utilization among patients with gender dysphoria within an integrated multicenter health care system.

Study Design

A retrospective database review.

Setting

An equal‐access, integrated health care system.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of Kaiser Permanente Northern California patients who underwent FFS from 2016 to 2021 on utilization of mental health services in a large integrated health care system. Full FFS was defined as all 3 facial thirds. We compared average quarterly utilization for 12 to 24 months before FFS with quarterly utilization during 12 to 24 months of follow‐up. Patients who did not have continuous coverage for at least 12 months before and 12 months after FFS were excluded.

Results

A total of 699 FFS cases were performed between 2016 and 2021, of which 478 cases were included (35.6 ± 12.3 years old, 207 [43.3%] had full FFS). Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed‐rank tests comparing pre‐FFS and post‐FFS utilization counts showed statistically significant reductions in the number of mental health‐associated visits. Age and comorbid mental health diagnoses were significant predictors of mental health resource utilization in the pre‐FFS period. A comorbid mood or anxiety disorder was a predictor of changes in resource utilization following FFS.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this endeavor is the first utilization study of FFS conducted in the United States. FFS was associated with significantly lower utilization of mental health services in the 12‐month post‐FFS period compared to the 12‐month pre‐FFS period.
Tumor immune microenvironment alterations associated with progression in human intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms
Authors: Jamouss Kevin T , Damanakis Alexander Ioannis , Cornwell Abigail C , Jongepier Martine , Trujillo Maria A , Pflüger Michael Johannes , Kawalerski Ryan , Maalouf Alexandre , Hirose Katsuya , Datta Shalini , Sipes Abigail , Pedro Brian A , Gudmundsson Emma , Assarzadegan Naziheh , Engle Logan , Scharpf Robert B , Kawamoto Satomi , Thompson Elizabeth D , Wood Laura D
Published: February 2025

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) poses a significant challenge due to late‐stage diagnoses. To improve patient outcomes, early intervention in precursor lesions such as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is crucial. However, early intervention must be balanced against overtreatment of low‐risk lesions that are unlikely to progress, underscoring the need to better understand molecular alterations in neoplastic cells and changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that drive the progression of IPMNs. In this study, we characterized alterations in the TME of IPMNs as they progressed to high‐grade dysplasia, using immunohistochemistry to quantify immune cell density and activation status in more than 100 well‐characterized human IPMN samples. Analyses revealed progression to a more immunosuppressive TME in high‐grade IPMN compared with low‐grade IPMN, characterized by elevated expression of immune checkpoint molecules (PD‐L1, TIM3, VISTA), increased density of macrophages, and decreased density of cytotoxic T cells. Intriguingly, the alterations in macrophages were limited to focal regions of high‐grade dysplasia, while T‐cell alterations affected the entire IPMN. Additionally, elevated VISTA expression was associated with poorer clinical outcome after IPMN resection in an independent cohort. These findings provide important insights into the interplay between the immune microenvironment and IPMN progression, highlighting potential targets to modify the TME for cancer interception. © 2025 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Effects of size distribution and surface treatments of seashell particles on flexural properties of seashell/epoxy composites
Authors: Amouzadi A. , Shokrieh M. M.
Published: February 2025

The present research, conducted with meticulous attention to detail, aims to investigate the use of seashell waste, mainly composed of CaCO3, as a bio‐filler for polymers. This study experimentally studies the influences of seashell bio‐filler on the flexural properties of seashell powder/Epoxy composites. Effective surface modification can lead to optimum particle dispersion and may improve the interfacial interaction between the particles and the matrix by enhancing their interfacial compatibility. Surface treatments are applied to the seashell particles using several coupling agents to identify a suitable silane agent for the components of the composites. A proper fabrication method is determined by considering the factors that affect the mechanical properties of seashell/epoxy composites, such as particle size, filler distribution, and strength of interfacial adhesion. By applying surface modification to seashell particles using 3‐Aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, seashell/epoxy composites containing 2 wt.% modified seashell achieve a 66% improvement in flexural strain energy and a negligible improvement of 5.2% in bending strength compared to the pure polymer.

Highlights

The fabrication process of seashell powder/epoxy composites was presented.

Flexural properties of seashell powder/epoxy composites were characterized.

Effects of particle size and surface modification were considered.

Micromechanical theory was used to predict the bending modulus.

Surface modification improved the flexural strain energy of composites.
Moderation Effect of Emotional Expressivity on the Associations Between Schizotypal Traits, Autistic Traits and Social Pleasure
Authors: Zhang Li‐Ying , Wang Miao , Fu Xin‐Wei , Chen Shou‐Nuo , Gu Jie , Li Shuai‐Biao , Chu Min‐Yi , Wang Yan‐Yu , Wang Yi , Chan Raymond C. K.
Published: February 2025

Diminished social pleasure has been reported in people with schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Previous studies suggested that emotional expressivity is closely correlated with social pleasure. However, the underlying psychological mechanisms between traits related to schizophrenia and ASD, emotional expressivity, and social pleasure remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between subclinical schizotypal and autistic traits, facial expressions, and social pleasure. Eighty‐six healthy participants (mean age = 20.35 ± 0.26 years, 44 males) were recruited to complete an emotion elicitation task and an autobiographical recalling task, while their facial expressions were videotaped for computerized analysis using the FaceReader. The intensity of different facial expressions (happy, sad, angry, surprised, scared, and disgusted), valence, and arousal were extracted. The self‐report Multidimensional Schizotypy Scale (MSS), Autism‐Spectrum Quotient (AQ), and Anticipatory and Consummatory Interpersonal Pleasure Scale (ACIPS) were administered to measure subclinical traits and social pleasure. Partial correlation analysis and moderation analysis were performed. Both schizotypal and autistic traits were negatively correlated with social pleasure. The moderation effects of angry facial expression for both schizotypal and autistic traits on their associations with social pleasure were significant. In addition, scared and surprised facial expressions moderated the associations between positive and negative dimensions of schizotypy and social pleasure, while arousal moderated the associations between autistic traits and social pleasure. Our study identified different moderating effects of facial emotion expressions on schizotypal and social anhedonia and autistic traits and social anhedonia, thereby revealing possible different psychopathological mechanisms underlying similar social anhedonia in subclinical populations.
Assessing the Impact of Transition and Peripheral Zone PSA Densities Over Whole‐Gland PSA Density for Prostate Cancer Detection on Multiparametric MRI
Authors: Esengur Omer Tarik , Stevenson Emma , Stecko Hunter , Lay Nathan S. , Yang Dong , Tetreault Jesse , Xu Ziyue , Xu Daguang , Yilmaz Enis C. , Gelikman David G. , Harmon Stephanie A. , Merino Maria J. , Gurram Sandeep , Wood Bradford J. , Choyke Peter L. , Pinto Peter A. , Turkbey Baris
Published: February 2025

Background

Whole‐gland (WG) prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) density (PSAD) has proven useful in diagnosing to be beneficial in localized prostate cancer (PCa). This study aimed to evaluate the predictive performance of WG and zonal (transition zone [TZ] and peripheral zone [PZ]) PSAD in predicting PCa and clinically significant PCa (csPCa) in prostate MRI.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on consecutive patients who underwent multiparametric MRI and MRI/US fusion‐guided biopsy between March 2019 and July 2024. TZ‐PSAD, PZ‐PSAD, and WG‐PSAD were calculated using in‐house AI models. Optimal thresholds for TZ‐PSAD and PZ‐PSAD were determined using the Youden index from receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses with five‐fold cross‐validation, whereas 0.15 ng/mL2 was applied as the threshold for WG‐PSAD. Statistical comparisons were performed using Wilcoxon rank‐sum, χ2, and Fisher's exact tests. Logistic regression (LR) and area under the ROC curve (AUC) analyses with DeLong's test were conducted to evaluate diagnostic performance.

Results

The study cohort included 774 consecutive patients (median age = 67 years [interquartile range {IQR}: 61–71], median WG‐PSAD = 0.11 ng/mL2 [IQR: 0.07–0.17], median TZ‐PSAD = 0.22 ng/mL2 [IQR: 0.12–0.41], median PZ‐PSAD = 0.13 ng/mL2 [IQR: 0.16–0.34]). Among these patients, 475 had PCa and 341 had csPCa. The mean optimal thresholds for TZ‐PSAD and PZ‐PSAD were 0.20 ng/mL2 and 0.21 ng/mL2, respectively, for PCa, whereas they were 0.26 and 0.23, respectively, for csPCa. Multivariable LR identified TZ‐PSAD (OR = 2.00, p = 0.03) and WG‐PSAD (OR = 2.40, p = 0.02) as significant predictors of PCa. For csPCa, TZ‐PSAD was the only independent predictor (OR = 2.13, p = 0.02) among PSAD measurements. TZ‐PSAD showed a superior AUC for both PCa (0.79 ± 0.05) and csPCa (0.77 ± 0.02) compared to WG‐PSAD (0.77 ± 0.06 for PCa, 0.76 ± 0.03 for csPCa) and PZ‐PSAD (0.69 ± 0.06 for PCa, 0.70 ± 0.04 for csPCa; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Both TZ‐PSAD and WG‐PSAD are strong predictors of PCa, but TZ‐PSAD is a superior predictor of csPCa compared to WG‐PSAD and PZ‐PSAD. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings.

Trial Registration: NCT03354416.
Novel Human Polyomaviruses Discovered From 2007 to the Present: An Update of Current Knowledge
Authors: Fazeli Mohammad Mehdi , Heydari Sirat Sara , Shatizadeh Malekshahi Somayeh
Published: February 2025

Human polyomaviruses (HPyVs) are a diverse group of viruses that typically establish asymptomatic persistent infections in healthy individuals. However, they can lead to severe diseases in immunocompromised patients. The past 15 years have witnessed significant advancements in understanding HPyVs, leading to the discovery of several novel and highly divergent strains. This surge in knowledge raises critical questions about their evolution, tropism, and potential contributions to various diseases. Although HPyVs are generally benign, certain strains can lead to significant health issues under immunocompromised conditions. Since 2007, several novel PyVs have been isolated from humans: Karolinska Institute Polyomavirus (KIPyV), Washington University Polyomavirus (WUPyV), Merkel cell Polyomavirus (MCPyV), HPyV6, HPyV7, Trichodisplasia spinulosa polyomavirus (TSPyV), HPyV9, HPyV10, Saint Louis polyomavirus (STLPyV), HPyV12, New Jersey Polyomavirus (NJPyV), Lyon IARC polyomavirus (LIPyV), HPyV16 and Quebec polyomavirus (QPyV). This review summarises the available data regarding the biology, tissue tropism, epidemiology, and associated diseases of novel HPyVs discovered from 2007 to the present. While some HPyVs are well‐characterised with clear associations to specific diseases, others remain enigmatic, warranting additional investigation into their biology and clinical implications.
Oxalis corniculata‐Derived Bioactive Compounds Target Hormone Receptors in Breast Cancer: HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS Analysis, Cytotoxicity, and Computational Studies
Authors: Ahamad Tanveer , Khan Mohsin Ali , Khan Mohd Faheem , Ahmad Rumana , Rahman Mohammad Akhlaquer , Siddiqui Sahabjada
Published: February 2025

Breast cancer is the leading global health concern for women. This study aimed to evaluate the antiproliferative property of Oxalis corniculata ethanolic extract, phytochemical identification, and in silico analysis of phytomolecules against estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) associated with breast cancer. Phytochemicals of plant extract were analyzed by HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS and cytotoxicity was evaluated in human breast cancer cells MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231. A molecular docking study was conducted via AutoDock 4 and AutoDock Vina tools and simulation through GROMACS software. Various phenolic acids and flavonoids were identified in the plant extract. MTT assay showed the IC50 value of the extract against MCF‐7 cells was 111.75 µg/mL and for MDA‐MB‐231 cells; it was 157.42 µg/mL, whereas being less‐toxic to normal Vero cells. The molecular docking data revealed that diosmin, kaempferol‐3‐O‐alpha‐L‐rhamnoside, and orientin showed the lowest binding energy with ER (B.E = −9.278 and −10.52 kcal/mol), HER (B.E = −9.828 kcal/mol), and PR (B.E = −8.938 kcal/mol), respectively. MD simulation analysis showed stable interactions of the biomolecules with receptor proteins. The findings of this study indicated that O. corniculata natural products can be used in the development of anticancer drugs in the management of breast cancer.
Phyto‐mechanochemical Synthesis of Copper Ferrite Nanoparticles: Structural, Magnetic, Photocatalytic, and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Irshad Zohaib , Javaid Sana , Ali Omar Makram , Khan Muhammad Shahid , AlSulami Fatimah Mohammad H. , Almasoudi Afaf , Al‐Ghamdi Azza A. , Banbela Hadeel M. , Hajjar Dina , Makki Arwa A. , Jabeen Tahira , Taj Muhammad Babar
Published: February 2025

Sustainable nanotechnology is becoming more prominent daily, especially in preparing magnetic nanoparticles like CuFe2O4. This work involves the phyto‐mechanochemical (mechanical and green) synthesis of CuFe2O4 NPs by Spinacia oleracea leaf extract. Various spectroscopic and analytical techniques including FTIR, UV–vis, XRD, SEM, VSM, EDX, and BET, confirmed the formation and characterizations of the CuFe₂O₄ NPs with 26 nm diameter. Results from VSM analysis demonstrated ferromagnetism with high saturation magnetization. At the same time UV–vis spectroscopy showed the optical characteristics of these materials. The photocatalytic properties of CuFe₂O₄ NPs were tested through decoloration of the textile industry pollutant congo red (CR) dye. CuFe₂O₄ NPs showed an effective degradation rate of 89% for CR dye during a 90 min incubation period under their best operating conditions. The degradation mechanism was studied through kinetic measurements utilizing first‐order and Langmuir‐Hinshelwood models. The nanoparticle size and bioactive properties enabled them to demonstrate powerful antibacterial capabilities against Streptococcus and Escherichia coli bacteria. Uniformity is a key feature of phyto‐mechanically synthesized CuFe₂O₄ nanoparticle synthesis while demonstrating their potential for environmental remediation and biomedical research.
Synthesis of 2,4‐Diaminoquinazolines and 2‐Amino‐4‐iminoquinazolines via Substrate‐Controlled Annulation of 2‐Aminobenzonitriles and Carbodiimides
Authors: Porashar Bikoshita , Choudhury Chinmayee , Saikia Anil K.
Published: February 2025

An efficient methodology for the synthesis of 2,4‐diaminoquinazolines and 2‐amino‐4‐iminoquinazolines from 2‐aminobenzonitriles and carbodiimides is described. This SnCl4 mediated reaction exhibits substrate driven switchable selectivity in product formation based on the substituents of the carbodiimides used. Aryl and primary alkyl‐substituted carbodiimides predominantly give 2‐amino‐4‐iminoquinazolines, while secondary or tertiary alkyl and benzyl‐substituted carbodiimides yield 2,4‐diaminoquinazolines. Products were also transformed into its oxo‐analogues 2‐aminoquinazolin‐4(3H)‐ones through hydrolysis and into highly fused pentacyclic derivatives through Ru(II)‐catalyzed C─H/N─H annulation reaction with diphenylacetylene.
Engineering of Peptide‐Inserted Base Editors with Enhanced Accuracy and Security
Authors: Chen Qi , Sun Yangning , Yao Jia , Lu Yingfan , Qiu Ruikang , Zhou Fuling , Deng Zixin , Sun Yuhui
Published: February 2025

Base editors are effective tools for introducing base conversions without double‐strand breaks, showing broad applications in biotechnological and clinical areas. However, their non‐negligible bystander mutations and off‐target effects have raised extensive safety concerns. To address these issues, a novel method is developed by inserting specific peptide fragments into the substrate binding pocket of deaminases in base editors to modify these outcomes. It is validated that the composition and position of the inserted peptide can significantly impact the performance of A3A‐based cytosine base editor and TadA‐8e‐based adenine base editor, leading to improved editing activity and precision in human HEK293T cells. Importantly, the TadA‐8e variant with DPLVLRRRQ peptide inserted behind S116 residue showed a strong motif preference of Y4A5N6, which can accurately edit the A5 base in targeted protospacer with minimized bystander and off‐target effects in DNA and RNA‐level. By summarizing the regularity during engineering, a set of systematic procedures is established, which can potentially be used to modify other types of base editors and make them more accurate and secure. In addition, the peptide insertion strategy is also proven to be compatible with traditional amino acid changes which have been reported, exhibiting excellent compatibility.
Ferromagnetic Boundary States in the Hydrogenated Graphene/Nickel Moiré Superlattice
Authors: Song Yang , Du Shixuan , Liu Feng , Zhang Lizhi
Published: February 2025

Zigzag graphene nanoribbons (ZGNRs) exhibit spin‐polarized edge states, which are key elements for designing graphene‐based spintronics devices. The intrinsic ZGNRs have an antiferromagnetic ground state, which can be modified by edge engineering and external field. Here, this work proposes an avenue to realize the zigzag graphene/graphane nanoribbon superlattice (ZGNR‐SL) on Ni(100) by selective hydrogenation of the 1D moiré patterns, based on the first‐principles calculations. The growth mechanism of the ZGNR‐SL is revealed having two steps: first, hydrogen atoms intercalate at the interface of graphene/Ni and form H ribbons in the apex regions of the 1D moiré pattern; second, the intercalated hydrogen ribbons serve as a template for the directed hydrogen adsorption on both sides of the graphene over the hydrogen ribbons. Interestingly, ZGNR‐SL on Ni(100) surface exhibit ferromagnetic boundary states, which may be exploited in potential spintronics device applications.
In Situ Nitric Oxide Generating Nano‐Bioactive Glass‐Based Coatings and Its Therapeutic Ion Release toward Attenuating Implant‐Associated Fibrosis and Infection
Authors: Moses Joseph Christakiran , Sapkota Aasma , Wu Yi , Martinez Isabel , Handa Hitesh , Brisbois Elizabeth J.
Published: February 2025

Nitric oxide (NO) is a potent gasotransmitter that exhibits a pleiotropic effect in regulating homeostasis and pathophysiology. Though it is a versatile biomaterial, silicone‐based devices are still challenged by implant‐associated infections and fibrous capsule formation complications. Here, a NO‐generating (NOgen) interface is developed from copper or strontium‐doped mesoporous bioactive glass‐based coating on silicone substrates to facilitate metal‐ion catalysis of endogenous S‐nitrosothiols. The copper or strontium‐based interfaces can generate physiologically relevant NO levels, which have bactericidal and antithrombotic effects to combat implant‐associated early onsite infection and thrombosis. The NO generated in tandem with the low therapeutic release of strontium ions from the NOgen interface regulates cellular fate pertaining to fibroblasts, macrophages, and endothelial cells. Strontium suppresses the collagen expression and migration of activated fibroblasts while favoring M2 phenotype bias in macrophages. Differential NO flux observed over time from NOgen interfaces helps switch macrophages from proinflammatory M1 phenotype to M2 anti‐inflammatory phenotype. Moreover, the synergistic effect of leachate and NO generated by the silicone substrate demonstrates a proangiogenic effect by aiding endothelial network maturation in vitro. Thus, the multifunctional features of the developed strontium‐doped bioactive glass‐based coating hold promise in regulating local immune‐micromilieu and attenuating implant‐associated fibrosis of silicone‐based implantable devices.