bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the potentials and action mechanisms of Citri reticulatae Pericarpium as an anti‐inflammatory food
Authors: Li Yanyi , Chen Ying , Zhou Yue , He Jiayi , Zhou Qian , Wang Mingfu
Published: October 2024

Modern lifestyle has led human body under a frequent exposure of chronic inflammation. Intriguingly, extensive studies have indicated that Citri reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP), the dried peel of Citrus reticulata Blanco and its cultivated varieties, has immense potential as an anti‐inflammatory food. Therefore, the present review aims to summarize advances in utilizing CRP for the prevention and controlling of inflammation under various pathological conditions. In particular, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the bioactive compounds present in CRP, with a specific focus on polymethoxyflavones and their transformations during aging process. Moreover, the underlying mechanism responsible for the anti‐inflammatory effects primarily involves the inhibition of inflammatory factors through signaling pathways, such as mitogen‐activated protein kinases and nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2–antioxidant pathways. The interaction with gut microbiota also contributes to the anti‐inflammatory potential of CRP. In summary, this review offers valuable insights into the health benefits of CRP and its constituents, laying a solid foundation for the further development of CRP into anti‐inflammatory foods.
Kaempferol Reduces Cardiopulmonary Load and Muscular Damage in Repeated 400‐m Sprints: A Double‐Blind, Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Okita Koichi , Mizokami Tsubasa , Akiyama Minoru , Ikeda Yasutaka
Published: October 2024

Plants exposed to hypoxic conditions have been suggested to produce more biologically active phytochemicals than those exposed to normal oxygen levels. Previously, we investigated 314 highland crop species and showed that the flavonoid kaempferol extracted from a highland quinoa grain markedly increased mitochondrial metabolism and ATP production in a hypoxic environment in vitro. Thus, we hypothesized that kaempferol would be effective during exercise under harsh conditions, in which anaerobic metabolism occurs. This study adopted a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover design to investigate the effect of a single oral dose of kaempferol (10 mg) on the athletic performance‐related indicators of 13 male university athletes (20.8 ± 0.7 years) who performed two consecutive 400‐m runs with the shortest 90‐min interval assuming qualifying and main races. Although no significant differences were observed in the 400‐m race times between the placebo and kaempferol groups, kaempferol intake markedly reduced the respiratory and heart rates during the second run (p < 0.05). In addition, kaempferol intake reduced the levels of muscle damage markers, myoglobin, and aspartate transaminase (p < 0.05). A single oral dose of kaempferol reduced the cardiopulmonary burden and muscle damage in individuals participating in 400‐m runs. Kaempferol may be a useful supplement for relieving the physical load, particularly in individuals performing strenuous exercises with high oxygen demand.

Trial Registration: UMIN Clinical Trials Registry in Japan: UMIN000049588
Curcumin's Protective Role in Heatstroke‐Induced Acute Liver Injury: Targeting Pyroptosis and Enhancing SIRT1 Expression
Authors: Wu Yizhan , Guo Fei , Ma Yan , Chai Weihao , Li Jiajia , Shi Wenhui , Liu Jiangwei
Published: October 2024

Heatstroke (HS) is a severe systemic condition that significantly impacts organ function, with the liver being particularly vulnerable. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a crucial deacetylase, is implicated in various diseases' pathophysiology. Curcumin, a natural polyphenol, has been shown to modulate SIRT1 activity, offering therapeutic benefits. This study explores the impact of HS on hepatic SIRT1 expression and the protective mechanisms of curcumin against HS‐induced hepatic injury. Male C57BL/6 mice are divided into control and curcumin pretreatment groups, subjected to HS induction, and assessed for liver injury biomarkers, oxidative stress, and inflammatory cytokines. Results indicate that HS downregulates SIRT1, leading to liver damage and systemic inflammation. Curcumin pretreatment dose‐responsively attenuates these effects, with the highest dose providing optimal protection, potentially through SIRT1 restoration. The findings suggest that curcumin's hepatoprotective role in HS may be mediated by upregulating SIRT1, highlighting its therapeutic potential in heatstroke‐related liver damage.
From classroom to bedside: The role of point‐of‐care ultrasound in undergraduate medical education
Authors: Buhumaid Rasha , Salman Hira , Kilian Paddy
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Point‐of‐Care Ultrasound (POCUS) has become an indispensable tool for diagnosis, monitoring, and procedure guidance in various medical specialties. Structured POCUS training is essential to provide users with the knowledge and skills needed for clinical practice. Many medical schools have integrated POCUS into their curriculum to familiarize their students with this technology early on in their medical careers.

Objective

This review aims to explore the integration of POCUS into the undergraduate medical education curriculum, discussing its benefits, challenges, barriers, and strategies for effective implementation.

Discussion

The POCUS educational framework uses various methods that combine the delivery of theoretical knowledge with practical skills training. It is highly recommended that medical schools include the fundamentals of ultrasound physics and knobology, structural anatomy, physiology, basic pathology of various organs, and basic instructions on ultrasound needle guidance for procedures in their POCUS curriculum. Importantly, the curriculum should include a comprehensive plan for assessing competency. The integration of POCUS into undergraduate medical education offers several benefits, including facilitating the teaching of basic sciences, enhancing physical examination skills, improving clinical problem‐solving abilities, preparing students for future clinical work, and enhancing the overall educational experience. However, there are challenges associated with this integration, such as a limited availability of qualified instructors, the high financial and logistical investment required, and the complexities of incorporating POCUS into an already compact medical curriculum. With the advancements in ultrasound technology and the integration of artificial intelligence, future research studies are needed to assess how these developments influence the integration of POCUS in undergraduate medical education.
Safety of the use of dinoprostone gel and vaginal insert for induction of labor: A multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Di Tommaso Mariarosaria , Pellegrini Rosamaria , Ammar Oumaima , Lecis Serena , Huri Mor , Facchinetti Fabio
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes associated with the use of dinoprostone for induction of labor, with particular attention on categories for which caution is recommended by the Italian Medicines Agency and the European Medicine Agency.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter observational study was conducted on a population of 1687 patients undergoing induction of labor with vaginal dinoprostone (gel or insert) between August 2019 and June 2022. Patients were subdivided based on maternal age, gestational age, and obstetric disorders. Data regarding the mode of delivery, the incidence of tachysystole, and the obstetric and perinatal outcomes were collected.

Results

The main adverse event associated with the use of dinoprostone was tachysystole. However, tachysystole was not associated with an increased risk of cesarean section (CS), neonatal intensive care (NICU) admission, low 1‐min Apgar, or umbilical cord acidosis. Maternal age greater than 35 years, gestational age greater than 40 weeks, and obstetric disorders were not associated with an increased rate of tachysystole, NICU admission, low 1‐ and 5‐min Apgar scores, and cord acidosis. The only associated adverse outcomes in those categories were postpartum hemorrhage with age greater than 35 years and tachysystole with gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders. Not a single case of severe outcome (disseminated intravascular coagulation, uterine rupture, maternal and fetal death) was reported in the cohort.

Conclusion

Providing there is adequate maternal and fetal surveillance, in an inpatient setting, dinoprostone could be safely administered for the induction of labor and considered appropriate in high‐risk pregnancies. Tachysystole can be self‐identified by the patient and effectively managed.
Enteritis of the ileal conduit as an adverse event related to immune checkpoint inhibitor use
Authors: Kobayashi Ko , Hashimoto Kohei , Tanaka Toshiaki , Masumori Naoya
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Gastroenterocolitis is one of the adverse events related to immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, inflammation of the intestinal lesion used for urinary diversion is not well known as an adverse event related to their use.

Case presentation

A patient with metastatic bladder cancer was administered pembrolizumab as second‐line treatment. After 12 days of administration, he felt abdominal distention. Computed tomography demonstrated thickening of the ileal conduit wall and bilateral hydronephrosis. Biopsy of the ileal conduit revealed inflammatory granulation tissue. Biopsy of the sigmoid colon also revealed colitis. Therefore, we diagnosed enterocolitis including the ileal conduit related to pembrolizumab. We then started to administer 30 mg prednisolone. After this treatment, we confirmed improvement of the clinical symptoms and healing of the ileal conduit mucosa.

Conclusion

Inflammation of an ileal conduit can occur as an immune‐related adverse event caused by metastatic urothelial carcinoma treatment with pembrolizumab.
Short‐Term Multicomponent Exercise Impact on Muscle Function and Structure in Hospitalized Older at Risk of Acute Sarcopenia
Authors: Sáez de Asteasu Mikel L. , Martínez‐Velilla Nicolás , Zambom‐Ferraresi Fabricio , García‐Alonso Yesenia , Galbete Arkaitz , Ramírez‐Vélez Robinson , Cadore Eduardo L. , Izquierdo Mikel
Published: October 2024

Background

Hospitalization exacerbates sarcopenia and physical dysfunction in older adults. Whether tailored inpatient exercise prevents acute sarcopenia is unknown. This study aimed to examine the effect of a multicomponent exercise programme on muscle and physical function in hospitalized older adults. We hypothesized that participation in a brief tailored exercise regimen (i.e., 3–5 days) would attenuate muscle function and structure changes compared with usual hospital care alone.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial with blinded outcome assessment was conducted from May 2018 to April 2021 at Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Spain. Participants were 130 patients aged 75 years and older admitted to an acute care geriatric unit. Patients were randomized to a tailored 3‐ to 5‐day exercise programme (n = 64) or usual hospital care (control, n = 66) consisting of physical therapy if needed. The coprimary endpoints were between‐group differences in changes in short physical performance battery (SPPB) score and usual gait velocity from hospital admission to discharge. Secondary endpoints included changes in rectus femoris echo intensity, cross‐sectional area, thickness and subcutaneous and intramuscular fat by ultrasound.

Results

Among 130 randomized patients (mean [SD] age, 87.7 [4.6] years; 57 [44%] women), the exercise group increased their mean SPPB score by 0.98 points (95% CI, 0.28–1.69 points) and gait velocity by 0.09 m/s (95% CI, 0.03–0.15 m/s) more than controls (both p < 0.01). No between‐group differences were observed in any ultrasound muscle outcomes. There were no study‐related adverse events.

Conclusions

Three to 5 days of tailored multicomponent exercise provided functional benefits but did not alter muscle or fat architecture compared with usual hospital care alone among vulnerable older patients. Brief exercise may help prevent acute sarcopenia during hospitalization.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04600453
Snorkel‐tag based affinity chromatography for recombinant extracellular vesicle purification
Authors: Bobbili Madhusudhan Reddy , Görgens André , Yan Yan , Vogt Stefan , Gupta Dhanu , Corso Giulia , Barbaria Samir , Patrioli Carolina , Weilner Sylvia , Pultar Marianne , Jacak Jaroslaw , Hackl Matthias , Schosserer Markus , Grillari Regina , Kjems Jørgen , Andaloussi Samir EL , Grillari Johannes
Published: October 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid nanoparticles and play an important role in cell‐cell communications, making them potential therapeutic agents and allowing to engineer for targeted drug delivery. The expanding applications of EVs in next generation medicine is still limited by existing tools for scaling standardized EV production, single EV tracing and analytics, and thus provide only a snapshot of tissue‐specific EV cargo information. Here, we present the Snorkel‐tag, for which we have genetically fused the EV surface marker protein CD81, to a series of tags with an additional transmembrane domain to be displayed on the EV surface, resembling a snorkel. This system enables the affinity purification of EVs from complex matrices in a non‐destructive form while maintaining EV characteristics in terms of surface protein profiles, associated miRNA patterns and uptake into a model cell line. Therefore, we consider the Snorkel‐tag to be a widely applicable tool in EV research, allowing for efficient preparation of EV standards and reference materials, or dissecting EVs with different surface markers when fusing to other tetraspanins in vitro or in vivo.
Small extracellular vesicles contain metals and transfer metal intercellularly
Authors: Purnianto Adityas , Mawal Celeste , Kulkarni Mitali M. , Su Huaqi , Koukoulis Tiana F. , Wongsodirdjo Patricia , Hung Ya Hui , Ayton Scott , Bush Ashley I. , Barnham Kevin J. , Vella Laura J.
Published: October 2024

Cells have developed a highly regulated system for the uptake, transport, utilization, storage, and export of metals, ensuring the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) function as a mechanism through which a cell can export its cargo and transfer it to recipient cells. However, in contrast to the other molecular cargo associated with sEVs, the metal content of sEVs is not well characterized. To address this gap in knowledge, we measured the levels of nine essential metals (copper, iron, zinc, manganese, magnesium, potassium, calcium, chromium, cobalt) and six non‐essential metals (nickel, rubidium, titanium, aluminium, lithium, lead) in sEVs originating from multiple in vitro and ex vivo sources. Our findings reveal that, beyond containing redox‐active essential metals and those involved in redox reactions, sEVs also exhibit the capability to export and transfer non‐physiological, potentially toxic metals.
Ten‐year outcomes of a prospective population‐based incidence cohort of inflammatory bowel disease patients from Canterbury, New Zealand
Authors: Forbes Angela J , Frampton Chris M A , Day Andrew S , DeVries Millie , McVicar Nina , Su Heidi , Gearry Richard B
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a progressive condition where ongoing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to complications such as strictures, and fistulae. The long‐term outcomes of newly diagnosed patients under current medical therapy can be used to plan health service provision and guide patients.

Methods

Prospective population‐based data on all incident patients diagnosed with IBD in Canterbury was gathered in 2014 (n = 205). The medical records of these patients were followed for medication use, disease progression, hospitalization, surgery and mortality, in the 10 years since their diagnosis. Survival analysis and cox regression determined characteristics associated with earlier time to these outcomes.

Results

Medical records of 184 IBD patients were able to be retrieved. Immunomodulators were used by 62% and biologics by 35%; hospitalization occurred for 42% and surgery for 15%. Montreal phenotype progression occurred for 21 and 7% of the cohort died. Younger age at diagnosis hazard ratio (HR) 2.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–4.0) and Crohn's disease HR 1.7 (95% CI 1.1–2.6) was associated with immunomodulator use. Younger age was also associated with biologic use HR 2.9 (95% CI 1.2–6.9). Male gender was associated with surgery HR 2.8 (95% CI 1.2–6.4). Perianal disease at diagnosis (14.7%) was associated with immunomodulator use HR 2.58 (95% CI 1.44–4.59) and Montreal phenotype progression HR 2.93 (95% CI 1.10–7.77).

Conclusion

In the 10 years since diagnosis disease progression and treatment escalation occurred for most of this population‐based cohort. Earlier intervention for patients with higher‐risk characteristics may improve long‐term outcomes reducing the burden on health systems.
A study on loading multiple epitopes with a single peptide
Authors: Guo Chunyan , Xu Cuixiang , Feng Qing , Xie Xin , Li Yan , Zhao Xiangrong , Hu Jun , Fang Senbiao , Shang Lijun
Published: October 2024

Epitopes, the basic functional units of antigens, hold great significance in the field of immunology. However, the structure and composition of epitopes and their interactions with antibodies remain unclear, which limits in‐depth studies on epitopes and the development of subunit vaccines. In a previous study on the localization of anti‐influenza HA monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), three strains with different characteristics reacted with the same peptide. In this study, by conventional immunological assays, computer homology modeling, and molecular docking simulations, we found that (1) the peptide could bind to three strains of mAbs with different reaction characteristics utilizing different combinations of immunodominant groups. (2) By computer molecular docking and simulation methods, the immunodominant groups on the two peptides could be combined into a multi‐epitope peptide bound to six strains of mAbs. We established a method for multi‐epitope peptide recombination from these immunodominant groups. (3) The immune effect of the recombinant multi‐epitope peptide was better than that of a single peptide. Our findings facilitate the understanding of the composition of antigen epitopes and provide a theoretical and experimental basis for developing polyvalent vaccines and understanding immune responses at the molecular level.
The Role of Parvalbumin Interneurons in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Yao Yiwei , Li Qian
Published: October 2024

As an important subtype of GABAergic interneurons, parvalbumin (PV) interneurons play a critical role in regulating cortical circuits and neural networks. Abnormalities in the development or function of PV interneurons have been linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social and language deficits. In this review, we focus on the abnormalities of PV interneurons in ASD, including quantity and function and discuss the underlying mechanisms of impairments in PV interneurons in the pathology of ASD. Finally, we propose potential therapeutic approaches targeting PV interneurons, such as transplanting MGE progenitor cells and utilizing optogenetic stimulation in the treatment of ASD.
Enacting Resilience in Small and Medium Enterprises Following the Sustainability Path: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Damiano Rodolfo , Valenza Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

This article investigates entrepreneurship literature insights into whether and how changing organizational strategies and processes toward more sustainable ones can allow small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to gain resilience. We deepen the relationship between reorienting SMEs' strategies and processes toward sustainability and gaining resilience by providing a framework and suggesting avenues for future research. Specifically, we cluster the content of 53 articles in five thematic areas using qualitative thematic analysis. These areas are “barriers, contextual factors, and government help,” “entrepreneurial orientation or attitude,” “capabilities and lean thinking,” “means and processes,” and “supply chains, synergies, and collaborations.” The findings suggest that reorienting businesses to more sustainable strategies and processes can also facilitate the shift toward more resilient business models and ecosystems. The article contributes to the literature on SMEs' resilience, binding such literature with the one on sustainable business and SMEs' sustainability, providing a theoretical framework useful for researchers, managers, and policymakers. The novelty of the work consists of emphasizing consciousness of this relationship and suggesting unexplored lines of research.
Incidence and Prognostic Implications of Lymphovascular Invasion in Node‐Negative Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: Results From the US Neuroendocrine Study Group
Authors: Sahara Kota , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Homma Yuki , Kawashima Jun , Maithel Shishir K. , Rocha Flavio , Weber Sharon , Fields Ryan , Idrees Kamran , Poultsides George A. , Cho Cliff , Endo Itaru , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite the well‐known prognostic role of lymph node metastasis (LNM) in pNETs, less is known about the importance of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) among patients with these tumors.

Methods

Patients undergoing pancreatectomy for pNET between 2002 and 2020 were identified in the US Neuroendocrine Tumor Study Group database. Cox regression analysis was utilized to identify the impact of LVI on recurrence‐free survival (RFS) among patients with node‐negative pNET.

Results

Among 853 patients who underwent resection for pNET, 214 patients (25.1%) had LNM, while 116 (13.6%) and 523 individuals (61.3%) were LVI + N0 and LVI − N0, respectively. The overall incidence of LVI among patients with N0 pNET was 18.1%; the incidence of LVI increased with increasing tumor size and Ki‐67 levels (size < 2 cm and Ki‐67 < 3%: 5.5%; size < 2 cm and Ki‐67 ≥ 3%: 17.2%; size ≥ 2 cm and Ki‐67 < 3%: 22.2%; size ≥ 2 cm and Ki‐67 ≥ 3%: 43.1%, p < 0.001). Five‐year RFS was highest among patients with LVI − N0 disease followed by individuals with LVI + N0 and N+ pNETs (92.8% vs. 61.6% vs. 58.3%, p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, the presence of LVI on pathology remained independently associated with almost 2.5 times higher hazards of recurrence (HR 2.47, 05% CI 1.44–4.24) among individuals with N0 pNETs.

Conclusion

The incidence of LVI varied according to tumor size and Ki‐67. LVI was associated with a higher likelihood of recurrence among individuals who underwent formal pancreatic resection for N0 pNETs. LVI is an important prognostic indicator among patients with node‐negative pNETs.
Linking summer nutrition to behavior and performance of black‐tailed deer
Authors: Lopez Katrina K. , Huggler Katey S. , Jackson DeWaine H. , Shipley Lisa A. , Long Ryan A.
Published: October 2024

Many large‐herbivore populations are regulated at least in part by bottom‐up forces, and thus relationships between herbivores and their habitat are of fundamental importance to wildlife managers. Variation in nutritional resources—and how herbivores respond to that variation—influences rates of nutrient intake, which directly affect nutritional condition, pregnancy rates, timing of parturition, offspring birth mass, and survival. Accordingly, nutrition‐focused research holds great potential for uncovering the mechanisms that govern population performance of large herbivores and for assessing the nature and magnitude of bottom‐up limitations. We quantified relationships between the foodscape (i.e., spatiotemporal variation in forage quality and abundance) in southwestern Oregon, USA, and black‐tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) behavior and performance, with a focus on the influence of maternal nutrition on fawn survival. We hypothesized that black‐tailed deer performance (i.e., fawn birth mass and survival) is influenced by the availability of high‐quality forage during spring and summer and patterns of foodscape use exhibited by individual deer. From 2016–2023 we monitored movement and survival of adult female black‐tailed deer and their offspring. We also conducted intensive vegetation sampling and used generalized additive modeling to map the foodscape available to deer in spring and summer. Suitable forage biomass (i.e., maximum biomass of forage that together exceeded quality thresholds for supporting one fawn) was highly variable across space and time, and our top foodscape model explained 70% of the variation in suitable biomass (adjusted R2 = 0.70). We observed a strong, positive relationship between use of the foodscape by maternal females prior to parturition and fawn birth mass. Although maternal foodscape use after parturition did not influence the probability of fawn survival, survival increased with increasing birth mass. These results suggest that the effects of nutrition on fawn survival in our study system are indirectly mediated by maternal behavior (i.e., use of the foodscape) and the corresponding effects on birth mass of fawns. Our study adds to a growing body of literature supporting a fundamental link between foodscape use and population performance of large herbivores. Wildlife managers can use the dynamic models we developed to assess habitat quality and to make quantitative predictions about how different management actions (e.g., forest thinning) are likely to influence habitat quality and performance of black‐tailed deer.
A celebration and reflection on the equity trend between women and men in wildlife publishing
Authors: Becdach Rebeca E. , Larson Katherine , Crouch Kellie , Meisman Elizabeth , Goldman Anna , Chambers Carol L. , DeJong Mary , Titus Valorie , Gunther Micaela S. , Wan Ho Yi
Published: October 2024

An inequity persists between women and men in nearly all scientific fields. A clear indicator of this bias is the disparity between women and men in authorship of scientific papers, as publications are a critical part of a researcher's career. Our objective was to describe gender equity (sensu women, men) in wildlife‐related publishing in recent decades. We reviewed all research articles published in The Journal of Wildlife Management (JWM) from 1999 through 2020 and collected author names, affiliated institutions, and study species taxa from each paper. To help understand representation by gender in publishing, we classified the gender of each author using the online tool Genderize.io. We then calculated the women‐to‐men ratio in publishing as first‐ and co‐authors across time. We further investigated whether there were biases by country, institution, and taxon of study species. Our results revealed that authorships were dominated by men 22 years ago, with 14 and 12 women/100 men for first‐ and co‐authorships, respectively, in 1999. Since then, apart from year‐to‐year fluctuations, the overall gap between women and men gradually narrowed until the mid‐2010s, reaching approximately 60 and 30 women/100 men for first‐ and co‐authorship, respectively. The percentage of women increased across institutions, taxa, and countries during the study; however, the percentages of women associated with each institution type and most wildlife taxa were lower than the percentages of men. Although it is encouraging to see the improvement in equity in publishing since 1999, there are still substantially more men publishing than women, which indicates there is still a need to remedy known barriers and identify additional barriers that contribute to publication inequity.
Association of erythrocyte fatty acid compositions with the risk of pancreatic cancer: A case–control study
Authors: Wang Yongjin , Wu Gangcheng , Wang Yandan , Xiao Feng , Yin Hongming , Yu Le , Shehzad Qayyum , Zhang Hui , Jin Qingzhe , Wang Xingguo
Published: October 2024

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most fatal malignancies, which has attracted scientists to investigate its etiology and pathogenesis. Nevertheless, the association between erythrocyte fatty acids and PC risk remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the association between levels of erythrocyte fatty acids and PC risk. The erythrocyte fatty acid compositions of 105 PC patients and 120 controls were determined by gas chromatography. Cases and controls were frequency matched by age and sex. Multivariable conditional logistic regression model and restricted cubic spline were applied to estimate the odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (OR, 95% CI) of erythrocyte fatty acids and PC risk. Our main findings indicated a significant negative association between levels of erythrocyte total monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 PUFA) and the risk of PC (ORT3‐T1 = 0.30 [0.14, 0.63] and ORT3‐T1 = 0.15 [0.06, 0.33], respectively). In contrast, erythrocyte n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically linoleic acid (LA) and arachidonic acid (AA) levels, were positively associated with PC incidence (RT1‐T3 = 4.24 [1.97, 9.46] and ORT1‐T3 = 4.53 [2.09, 10.20]). Total saturated fatty acid (SFA), especially high levels of palmitic acid (16:0), was positively associated with the risk of PC (ORT3‐T1 = 3.25 [1.53, 7.08]). Our findings suggest that levels of different types of fatty acids in erythrocytes may significantly alter PC susceptibility. Protective factors against PC include unsaturated fatty acids such as n‐3 PUFA and MUFA.
What controls the onset of winter stratification in a deep, dimictic lake?
Authors: Austin Jay
Published: October 2024

The transition from summer stratification to winter stratification is considered for deep, dimictic Lake Superior. The fall transition is dynamically distinct from the better‐studied spring transition; it is characterized by a wind‐driven collapse of weakening summer stratification, a surface‐cooling–driven period during which the water column is essentially isothermal, and eventual onset of inverse (cold upper layer) stratification, after which sub‐thermocline water temperatures are largely fixed for the rest of the season. Due to the small value of thermal expansivity near the temperature of maximum density, temperature gradients do not impart much stability to the water column, and it is difficult for winter stratification to form immediately upon dropping below the temperature of maximum density. Instead, the water column continues to cool until the thermal expansivity is sufficiently large in magnitude to allow temperature gradients to impart stability. This observation implies that the temperature locked into the deep water for the winter season will be a consequence of the specific meteorological forcing experienced in a given year; there may be long‐term climate change driven trends in the timing of the onset of stratification but not trends in winter deep‐water temperature. To address this hypothesis, 15 yr of moored temperature data collected in Lake Superior are examined, and a scaling argument and climatological data are applied to better understand interannual variability in the onset of winter stratification.
Wideband Transmissive Programmable Metasurface for Adaptive Millimeter‐Wave Beamforming
Authors: Tian Jie , Li Shiyuan , He Chong , Zhu Weiren
Published: October 2024

Programmable metasurfaces provide a promising paradigm for the beamforming of electromagnetic waves in the fifth‐generation (5G) and sixth‐generation (6G) wireless communications with low cost and low complexity. However, most of the existing researches are focused on the sub‐6 GHz spectrum, which limited the gigabits per second (Gb s−1) high‐speed data transmission on future wireless network. Additionally, as a step forward in the development of intelligent metasurfaces, extra peripheral devices are often required to sense environmental variations for self‐adaptive modulations. Here, a wideband millimeter‐wave programmable metasurface is presented for peripheral‐free self‐adaptive signal enhancement in 5G/6G wireless communication. The proposed transmissive programmable metasurface consists of meta‐atoms, exhibiting efficient transmission (1 dB loss) and a stable 1‐bit phase difference from 23.7 to 32.1 GHz, effectively covering the desired 5G millimeter‐wave frequency bands: N257, N258, and N261. By integrating the self‐adaptive algorithm based on received signal intensity into the controller, the programmable metasurface can self‐adaptively establish an optimal or acceptable channel according to the predefined threshold values. To evaluate the performance of the prototype, an experiment on wavefront modulation was first conducted in a microwave chamber, verifying the wideband beamforming performance of the programmable metasurface. Moreover, self‐adaptive signal enhancement and millimeter‐wave wireless communication experiments were conducted in indoor environments, showing a maximum signal enhancement of 21.4 dB and a significant improvement in constellation. The proposed self‐adaptive wideband programmable metasurface demonstrates high potential for application in 5G/6G millimeter‐wave wireless networks.
Intrinsically Flame‐Retardant Polyamide 6 by Anionic Ring‐Opening Copolymerization with a Phosphorous‐Containing Comonomer
Authors: Pani Carlo , Altmann Hagen J. , Probst Patrick , Elser Iris , Steinmann Mark , König Simon , Kreis Philipp , Kuske Lisa , Weidich Dominik , Gähr Anke , Groos Jonas , Kappler Julian , Musso Janis , Wang Dongren , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: October 2024

A three‐step synthetic route is established for the synthesis of a phosphorus‐containing ε‐caprolactam derivative, starting from cyclohex‐2‐enone and diphenylphosphinous chloride, followed by a Beckmann rearrangement. 2D NMR spectroscopy reveals that the phosphorus moiety is selectively localized at the 4‐position of the caprolactam ring. Different amounts of the phosphorus‐containing comonomer are systematically incorporated into polyamide 6 by anionic ring‐opening copolymerization with ε‐caprolactam at elevated temperatures. Polymerization reactions are initiated by a latent, CO2 protected N‐heterocyclic carbene in the presence of N‐acetyl caprolactam and MgCl2. The phosphorus content is determined by inductively‐coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES) analysis. Limiting oxygen indices up to 23.5 are found for polymers containing ≈1 wt.‐% of phosphorus. The thermal properties of the copolymers are determined and compared to those of polyamide 6.
POM‐Based Hydrogels for Efficient Synergistic Chemodynamic/Low‐Temperature Photothermal Antibacterial Therapy
Authors: Wang Haozhe , Li Dan , Meng Qingyao , Li Xue , Guo Kangle , Zou Zehua , Peng Jinsong , Sun Yuan , Sun Tiedong
Published: October 2024

Bacterial infection of wound surfaces has posed a significant threat to human health and represents a formidable challenge in the clinical treatment. In this study, a novel antimicrobial hydrogel utilizing POM is synthesized as the primary component, with gelatin and sodium alginate as the structural framework. The resultant hydrogel demonstrates exceptional mechanical properties and viscoelasticity attributed to the hydrogen‐bonded cross‐linking between POM and gelatin, as well as the ionic cross‐linking between sodium alginate and Ca2+. In addition, the integration of CuS nanoparticles conferred photothermal properties to the hydrogel system. To address the concerns regarding the potential thermal damage to the surrounding normal cells, this study employs a LT‐PTT combined with CDT approach to achieve the enhanced antimicrobial efficacy while minimizing the inadvertent harm to the healthy cells. The findings suggested that POM‐based hydrogels, serving as an inorganic–organic hybrid material, will represent a promising antimicrobial solution and offer valuable insights for the development of the non‐antibiotic materials.
Synthesis and Characterization of β‐Myrcene‐Styrene and β‐Ocimene‐Styrene Copolymers
Authors: Marzocchi Raffaele , Grimaldi Ilaria , Ruiz de Ballesteros Odda , Femina Giuseppe , Guida Adriano , Ricciardi Rosa , Morvillo Pasquale , Capacchione Carmine , Auriemma Finizia
Published: October 2024

The structure‐properties relationships of sustainable materials derived from biomass‐based monomers are investigated, focusing on hybrid styrene/terpene‐based copolymers with blocky microstructures, such as β‐myrcene– and β‐ocimene–styrene copolymers. The samples show complex glass transition dynamics, as evidenced by the physical aging experienced by the amorphous phase in styrene‐rich copolymers. The tendency of styrene‐ and terpene‐rich sequences to give heterogeneous morphologies with correlation strength extending over 10–40 nm is outlined, through small‐angle X‐ray scattering analysis. A new class of terpene‐based hybrid systems, holding promise for applications in surface coating technologies, is identified.
Clinicodemographic and Genetic Modifier Correlation in an X‐Linked Dystonia‐Parkinsonism Cohort from Mindanao
Authors: Doquenia Maria Leila M. , Dy Closas Alfand Marl F. , Algodon Shela Marie , Suarez‐Uy Rachel , Ng Arlene , Laabs Björn‐Hergen , Westenberger Ana , Brüggemann Norbert , Rosales Raymond L. , Jamora Roland Dominic , Klein Christine
Published: October 2024

Background

X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism (XDP), a neurodegenerative movement disorder endemic to the Philippines, is primarily investigated in patients from Panay Island and the Greater Manila area. However, individuals residing in geographically distant regions may exhibit different clinical or genetic characteristics compared to those documented in earlier reports.

Objective

The aim was to investigate the relationship of XDP clinical features in a Mindanao cohort with modifiers of age at onset (AAO) variability and utilization of a previously reported AAO model.

Methods

We investigated clinical and genetic features in 27 XDP patients from southern Mindanao. In all patients, we genotyped the 4 polymorphisms linked to AAO.

Results

The XDP‐relevant hexanucleotide repeat number significantly correlated with AAO in the 27 patients and explained about 68% of AAO variability. There is no statistical difference between the predicted and actual AAO.

Conclusion

The AAO model may provide reliable predictions by employing the effect of XDP genetic modifiers of AAO variability.
Clinical Utility of Neurophysiologic Classification (and Declassification) of Myoclonus
Authors: Callister Marcus N. , Klanderman Molly C. , Stockard Alyssa , Van Der Walt Charles , Pena Ashley B. , Caviness John N.
Published: October 2024

Background

Movement clinical neurophysiology studies can distinguish myoclonus, tremor, and other jerky movements; however, there has been limited demonstration of their real‐world clinical impact.

Objective

The aim was to investigate movement study utility in clarifying movement classification and guiding patient management.

Method

A retrospective study of myoclonus‐related movement studies was performed.

Results

Of 262 patients referred for consideration of myoclonus, 105 (40%) had myoclonus, 156 (59%) had no myoclonus (the commonest alternative classifications were functional jerks and tremor), and 1 was uncertain. An additional 29 studies identified myoclonus without prior clinical suspicion. A total of 119 of 134 (89%) myoclonus patients had a specific neurophysiologic subtype identified, most commonly cortical (64, 54%). Diagnostic differential narrowed in 60% of patients, and a new diagnosis was made in 42 (14%) patients. Medication changes were made in 151 patients (52%), with improvement in 35 of 51 (67%) with follow‐up.

Conclusions

Movement studies effectively determined movement classification and identified unsuspected myoclonus, leading to changes in diagnosis and management. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Pain in Biologic‐Treated Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: The Role of Illness Perception Before and After the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Theofanidis Alexandra Husivargova , Timkova Vladimira , Macejova Zelmira , Kotradyova Zuzana , Breznoscakova Dagmar , Sanderman Robbert , Nagyova Iveta
Published: October 2024

Background

We aimed to assess the role of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the association of clinical, physical, and psychological factors with pain in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients.

Methods

We included 103 RA patients (81.6% females; mean age 56.1 ± 13.8 years). Patients filled out the VAS‐pain, GAD‐7, PHQ‐9, MFI‐20, and B‐IPQ. Paired sample t‐tests, correlations, and multiple regression analyses were used to analyse the data.

Results

Our results showed significantly worsened pain in the data collected post‐pandemic (p ≤ 0.05). Pre‐pandemic, the final regression models showed an association between functional disability (β = 0.24; p ≤ 0.05), illness perception (β = 0.34; p ≤ 0.05) and pain. In post‐pandemic models, significant associations were found between fatigue (β = 0.33; p ≤ 0.01) and illness perception (β = 0.36; p ≤ 0.01) with pain. Positive illness perception was able to alleviate the associations between fatigue and depression with pain before and after the pandemic.

Conclusion

Findings indicate that patients with RA may have been negatively affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic given their vulnerability. Even though pharmacological treatment was not interrupted, post‐pandemic results showed significantly higher levels of experienced pain. Therefore, in addition to biological therapy, non‐pharmacological interventions, including psychological support aimed at diminishing negative illness perception, may be beneficial in reducing RA‐related pain, especially when dealing with a crisis.
Use of Omalizumab for Pediatric Asthma After US Food and Drug Administration Expanded Indications
Authors: Deshmukh Anjali D. , Kesselheim Aaron S. , Tsacogianis Theodore , Rome Benjamin N.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Research and regulatory approval for pediatric uses of prescription drugs often lag years after adult approvals, during which time substantial off‐label use of medications in children can occur. We evaluated whether US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulatory actions affected the pediatric use of omalizumab, a biologic drug used to treat asthma.

Methods

In this serial cross‐sectional study, we identified quarterly cohorts of children (0–18 years) with moderate‐to‐severe asthma within two large national claims databases of those with commercial insurance and Medicaid from 2003 to 2019. Using an interrupted time‐series analysis, we fit segmented linear regression models to identify changes in the incidence of omalizumab use in 6–11‐year‐old children compared with 12–18‐year‐olds after two time points: (1) 2009Q3 when an FDA advisory committee voted against use for 6–11‐year‐old children and (2) 2016Q2 when FDA expanded omalizumab's labeling to include 6–11‐year‐old children.

Results

We identified 9298 new pediatric omalizumab users (84% Medicaid). Among 6–11‐year‐old children, the incidence of omalizumab use did not change following the FDA's initial review of evidence in 2009 and increased after 2016 Q2 FDA approval for this age group in both Medicaid (58 per 100 000 children with asthma, 95% confidence interval [CI] 27–89, p < 0.001) and commercial insurance (57 per 100 000, 95% CI 21–94, p = 0.003) compared with 12–18‐year‐old children.

Conclusions

The use of omalizumab among asthmatic children aged 6–11 years remained steady after FDA advisory committee concerns in 2009 and increased after FDA expanded the indication to include this population in 2016. Additional market incentives may help to ensure the timely generation of evidence and regulatory approval of medications for children.
The Effects of Removing the Requirement for Prior Reimbursement Approval on Anticoagulant Use in Ireland: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Scannell M. , Burton E. , Kearney P. M.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Prior approval for reimbursement is a policy of cost containment while ensuring oversight and governance of medicines. It has been employed in Ireland to address financial challenges due to the shift from warfarin to direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Studies assessing the effectiveness of this policy are limited. Thus, we aimed to examine the effectiveness of prior approval for reimbursement of DOACs (apixaban, rivaroxaban) as a cost containment policy in Ireland.

Methods

The Irish Health Service Executive‐Primary Care Reimbursement Service database was used in this cross‐sectional study. We examined the prescribing frequencies and associated costs of the oral anticoagulants; [(OACs) apixaban, rivaroxaban and warfarin] listed in the top 100 most frequently prescribed drugs, between 2018 and 2021. Time series negative binomial regression was used to assess the impact of removing the approval requirement of apixaban in September 2019 followed by the other DOACs in November 2020.

Results

The prescribing frequency of OACs increased by almost 20% from 2018 to 2021. This study showed there were significant differences in the proportion of OACs prescribed among the Community Drug Schemes. A statistically significant decreased use of apixaban (< 1%, p < 0.05) occurred when prior approval was removed for all DOACs.

Conclusions

The removal of prior approval for reimbursement of DOACs in Ireland had a minimal impact on the prescribing frequency trends of the OACs. Future use of these potentially useful policies by healthcare systems requires careful consideration of drug type, approval criteria and length of time the policy remains in place to minimise any negative effects associated with their use.
A multifunctional superhydrophobic phase‐change photothermal coating for concrete anti‐icing
Authors: Li Shuai , Tan Yiqiu , Li Song , Xiao Andong
Published: October 2024

Superhydrophobic coatings meet the urgent need for anti‐icing infrastructure in low‐temperature environments but suffer limited functionality and easy failure. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with highly efficient photothermal conversion properties can address these issues when endowed with superhydrophobicity. However, CNTs face challenges in modification and functional failure without light. This study proposes a simple strategy to endow CNTs with superhydrophobic and phase‐change properties, affording CNTs with superhydrophobic photothermal phase‐change functions. The phase‐change superhydrophobic photothermal CNT (PSC) particle size distribution was optimized to 4–6 μm, effectively reducing CNT agglomeration tendency. The PSC exhibited good phase‐change enthalpy, with a 53% phase‐change material adsorption rate. Superhydrophobic coatings based on PSC were prepared via a two‐step method. The primer performed best with a 10% silicon carbide to epoxy resin mass ratio. Considering performance and economy, optimal coating performance occurred with 100 mg of PSC in the topcoat. The PSC coating achieved a 156.7° contact angle and a rolling angle of only 3.4°. It can rapidly warm from −10 to 50 °C under one solar intensity. The coating exhibits excellent robustness across extreme environments, extending droplet freezing time by 10‐fold at −10 °C and quickly melting under one sun intensity. This research will further advance the development of CNT‐based superhydrophobic photothermal coatings and promote their application in infrastructure sectors, particularly for cement concrete. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.