bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIGH-SENSITIVITY TROPONIN FOR CARDIOVASCULAR RISK STRATIFICATION IN ASYMPTOMATIC INDIVIDUALS WITH SUBCLINICAL ATHEROSCLEROSIS: INSIGHTS INTO SEX-SPECIFIC DIFFERENCES AND EMERGING CLINICAL APPLICATIONS: A META-ANALYSIS WITH CRUCIAL IMPLICATIONS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR RISK ASSESSMENT
Authors: Ali Akbar Hina , Khan Jaweriah , Khan Waqqas , Muhammad Subhan  , Iftikhar Rafia , Naz Sahreen , Musthafa Hana , Abuasaker Husam K. A. , Abdulla Hameed Ahamed Khalifa , Aldahlaki Mustafa alaa hamodi
Published: January 2025

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, placing a significant burden on healthcare systems. The emergence of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-Tn), a biomarker for myocardial injury, offers new potential in improving cardiovascular risk prediction, particularly in asymptomatic individuals with subclinical atherosclerosis. This advancement addresses critical gaps in traditional risk stratification models and promotes early detection and intervention.
Objective: This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the role of hs-Tn in cardiovascular risk stratification for asymptomatic individuals with subclinical atherosclerosis, with a focus on sex-specific differences and the integration of hs-Tn with traditional and imaging-based risk models.
Methods: A meta-analysis of nine studies, including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and observational studies, was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. The search spanned multiple databases from January 2010 to November 2024. Extracted data included population characteristics, hs-Tn assay types, subclinical atherosclerosis measures, follow-up durations, and outcomes. Statistical metrics such as odds ratios (OR), confidence intervals (CI), and p-values were analyzed to assess the associations. Study quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and ROB-2 tools.
Results: Elevated hs-Tn levels were associated with increased cardiovascular risk, with odds ratios ranging from 1.25 to 2.10 (p < 0.01). Sex-specific analyses indicated that males exhibited higher hs-Tn thresholds than females for equivalent risk levels. Combining hs-Tn with traditional models enhanced predictive accuracy by 18% and further improved when paired with imaging techniques such as coronary artery calcium scoring. Most studies demonstrated a low risk of bias, ensuring reliability.
Conclusion: High-sensitivity cardiac troponin significantly enhances cardiovascular risk stratification in asymptomatic individuals. Incorporating sex-specific thresholds and integrating hs-Tn with traditional and imaging-based models could revolutionize early detection and prevention strategies, offering a transformative approach to cardiovascular care.
Sistem Pakar Diagnosa Kerusakan Printer sebagai Media Pendukung Menggunakan Metode Teorema Bayes
Authors: Ellisa Harini  , Indra Tri Saputra  , Gusmana Roman
Published: January 2025

Trijaya Computer adalah sebuah tempat penjualan dan service alat- alat elektronik, biasanya komputer atau printer yang bertempat di jalan Panglima Batur, Markoni. Trijaya Computer juga melayani perbaikan atau service komputer dan printer, salah satu service yang cukup banyak adalah printer. Printer banyak digunakan oleh orang untuk melakukan pencetakan laporan, dokumen atau lainnya. Seringnya pemakaian atau bahkan tidak menggunakan printer sekalipun dapat menyebabkan kerusakan pada printer tersebut. Konsep perhitungan Teorema Bayes akan dimasukkan dan diterapkan ke dalam suatu sistem yang berbentuk aplikasi sistem pakar untuk membantu admin dalam mendiagnosa kemungkinan kerusakan yang terjadi pada printer. Teorema bayes ditemukan oleh Reverend Thomas Bayes (1701-1761). Pada umumnya, teorema bayes digunakan untuk menghitung nilai kebenaran probabilitas dari suatu evidence. Teorema bayes juga dapat diartikan untuk menghitung ketidakpastian data menjadi data yang pasti dengan membandingkan antara data “ya” atau “tidak”. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah didapatkan sebuah perangkat lunak sistem pakar pendiagnosa kerusakan printer yang dapat dijadikan sebagai sistem pendukung atau asisten bagi admin. Hasil dari perhitungan tingkat akurasi terhadap sistem, maka didapatkan tingkat akurasi sebesar 80% dari total 10 data uji dengan 8 data uji yang sesuai berdasarkan hasil pakar dan 2 data uji yang tidak sesuai dengan hasil pakar.
Moffett's Corner Introduction
Authors: Lafer Stephen , Marine Jonathan M.
Published: January 2025

In this special edition of Moffett’s Corner, Sheridan Blau, former Professor of Practice in the teaching of English at Teachers College, Columbia University interviews the noted composition theorist Sondra Perl in order to solicit her memories of the late James Moffett.
Shooter’s Abscess: Foot Infections in People Who Inject Drugs
Authors: Killeen Amanda L. , Heming Randi , Crisologo Peter A. , Siah Michael C. , Lavery Lawrence A.
Published: January 2025

Musculoskeletal infections are common among people who inject drugs. Little is known about the prevalence and characteristics of skin and soft-tissue infections in this patient population, especially in the lower extremity. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics, bacterial pathogens, and clinical outcomes in adults with foot infections due to intravenous drug use. Nine patients for whom the podiatric service was consulted for lower-extremity abscess secondary to intravenous drug use were included in this study. Most infections (66.7%) were located on the dorsal foot. Two of the abscesses (22.2%) resulted in amputation, with one toe amputation and one ray amputation. Most infections grew methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (66.7%). Although our investigation had limitations, we conclude that it is likely people who inject drugs will present with infections due to MRSA and will require surgery to resolve the infection.
Incidence of Wounds Associated with Posterior Midline Incision for Achilles Tendon Pathology in a Large Cohort at a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Hurst Michael J. , Hughes Hannah J. , Blazek Cody , Lerch Ryan J. , Burns Patrick R. , Manway Jeffrey
Published: January 2025

Background: We sought to determine the wound complications associated with a straight midline incision overlying the Achilles tendon. Data on sex, age, body mass index (BMI), surgery performed, date of surgery, and wound development were collected.

Methods: We retrospectively collected data on 217 patients with a mean ± SD age of 46.16 ± 13.72 years and follow-up of 9.1 ± 12.42 months. The specific procedures performed with this incision included repair of ruptured Achilles tendon (n = 89), Haglund deformity correction (n = 75), and flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer (n = 63). Wound complication was defined as a delay in wound healing with necrosis of the incisional margins resulting in exposure of superficial or deep layers. Deep infection was defined as the need for intravenous antibiotics.

Results: We reported 15 wound complications (6.91%): ten (4.6%) were superficial and five (2.3%) were deep. All five patients with deep wound complications required operative debridement, and four patients required intravenous antibiotics. The infection rate of the midline incisional approach was 1.83%. Superficial wound complications were treated with local care and oral antibiotics, as necessary. There were no significant differences between age (P = .5986; P < .05), BMI (P = .7968; P < .05), smoking history (P = .6356; P < .05), or length of follow-up (P = .8338; P < .05). The overall wound rate of 6.91% is comparable with other literature with larger cohorts.

Conclusions: These results will help us better educate surgeons about the risk of wound development with the posterior midline Achilles tendon incision.
The Role of Serum HMGB-1 Level in Differentiating the Soft-Tissue Infection From Diabetic Foot Osteomyelitis
Authors: Rizvanoglu Ibrahim Halil , Cinkir Ümit , Bosnak Vuslat , Orhan Nuri , Benlier Necla , Kokcu Füsun
Published: January 2025

Background: The incidence of diabetic foot infections is increasing due to the rising number of persons with diabetes and the prolonged life expectancy. It is vital to differentiate soft-tissue infection (STI) from diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO), as treatment modalities and durations vary widely, but this can be challenging. We aimed to assess the blood concentration levels of the high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB-1) in STI and DFO compared to healthy subjects, and to investigate whether this protein could contribute to differentiating STI from DFO.

Methods: Data from patients with suspected soft-tissue infection or diabetic foot osteomyelitis and healthy volunteers were prospectively recorded. Mean C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, white blood cell, and HMGB-1 values in the groups were analyzed. Cut-off values of HMGB-1 between the three groups were also determined. A three-phase bone scintigraphy was accepted as the diagnostic method for differentiating STI and DFO.

Results: A total of 92 volunteers, were included in the study. Group 1 comprised 28 healthy individuals who composed the control group. Group 2 comprised the 35 patients diagnosed with STI, and Group 3 comprised 29 patients diagnosed with DFO. The HMGB-1 was significantly higher in DFO. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of HMGB-1 in differentiating between STI and DFO was 55%, 94%, and 77%, respectively.

Conclusions: We concluded that measurement of the serum HMGB-1 level could be an adjunctive test in the differential diagnosis of diabetic foot infections.
Operation of spinal sensorimotor circuits controlling phase durations during tied-belt and split-belt locomotion after a lateral thoracic hemisection
Authors: Rybak Ilya A , Shevtsova Natalia A , Audet Johannie , Yassine Sirine , Markin Sergey N , Prilutsky Boris I , Frigon Alain
Published: January 2025

Locomotion is controlled by spinal circuits that interact with supraspinal drives and sensory feedback from the limbs. These sensorimotor interactions are disrupted following spinal cord injury. The thoracic lateral hemisection represents an experimental model of an incomplete spinal cord injury, where connections between the brain and spinal cord are abolished on one side of the cord. To investigate the effects of such an injury on the operation of the spinal locomotor network, we used our computational model of cat locomotion recently published in eLife (Rybak et al., 2024) to investigate and predict changes in cycle and phase durations following a thoracic lateral hemisection during treadmill locomotion in tied-belt (equal left-right speeds) and split-belt (unequal left-right speeds) conditions. In our simulations, the ‘hemisection’ was always applied to the right side. Based on our model, we hypothesized that following hemisection the contralesional (‘intact’, left) side of the spinal network is mostly controlled by supraspinal drives, whereas the ipsilesional (‘hemisected’, right) side is mostly controlled by somatosensory feedback. We then compared the simulated results with those obtained during experiments in adult cats before and after a mid-thoracic lateral hemisection on the right side in the same locomotor conditions. Our experimental results confirmed many effects of hemisection on cat locomotion predicted by our simulations. We show that having the ipsilesional hindlimb step on the slow belt, but not the fast belt, during split-belt locomotion substantially reduces the effects of lateral hemisection. The model provides explanations for changes in temporal characteristics of hindlimb locomotion following hemisection based on altered interactions between spinal circuits, supraspinal drives, and somatosensory feedback.
Behavioural pharmacology predicts disrupted signalling pathways and candidate therapeutics from zebrafish mutants of Alzheimer’s disease risk genes
Authors: Kroll François , Donnelly Joshua , Özcan Güliz Gürel , Mackay Eirinn , Rihel Jason
Published: January 2025

By exposing genes associated with disease, genomic studies provide hundreds of starting points that should lead to druggable processes. However, our ability to systematically translate these genomic findings into biological pathways remains limited. Here, we combine rapid loss-of-function mutagenesis of Alzheimer’s risk genes and behavioural pharmacology in zebrafish to predict disrupted processes and candidate therapeutics. FramebyFrame, our expanded package for the analysis of larval behaviours, revealed that decreased night-time sleep was common to F0 knockouts of all four late-onset Alzheimer’s risk genes tested. We developed an online tool, ZOLTAR, which compares any behavioural fingerprint to a library of fingerprints from larvae treated with 3677 compounds. ZOLTAR successfully predicted that sorl1 mutants have disrupted serotonin signalling and identified betamethasone as a drug which normalises the excessive day-time sleep of presenilin-2 knockout larvae with minimal side effects. Predictive behavioural pharmacology offers a general framework to rapidly link disease-associated genes to druggable pathways.
CREENCIAS MERITOCRÁTICAS Y MOVILIDAD SOCIAL PERCIBIDA EN CHILE: UN FENÓMENO INTRÍNSICAMENTE ASOCIADO
Authors:   , Manns Soto Josefina Teresa
Published: January 2025

La autoevaluación acerca de las percepciones de ascenso y descenso de una posición social a otra, junto con la valoración de las creencias meritocráticas, permite cuestionar la realidad social e incentiva el análisis del bienestar socioeconómico desde métricas subjetivas. Esta investigación tiene como objetivo establecer las asociaciones entre las creencias meritocráticas con la movilidad social subjetiva de las personas económicamente activas entre los 25 y 60 años en Chile.A partir de una muestra representativa a nivel de centros urbanos de la población chilena, se emplearon modelos de regresión OLS y modelos log-lineales para evaluar la asociación entre las experiencias de movilidad social y las creencias meritocráticas. Se analizaron elementos dinámicos tanto a nivel personal como macrosocial, enfatizando en las autoevaluaciones subjetivas de los individuos.Se destaca el efecto predictivo del nivel educacional de las personas, evidenciando que las valoraciones al mérito disminuyen a medida que aumenta el nivel educativo. Asimismo, las percepciones de movilidad social tienen un impacto diferencial por sexo: hombres que experimentan movilidad descendente muestran una mayor inclinación hacia creencias estructurales, mientras que las mujeres con experiencias de movilidad ascendente manifiestan creencias meritocráticas más elevadas de lo esperado.Los resultados de la investigación destacan las autoevaluaciones personales y los factores sociales y culturales en las percepciones acerca de las experiencias de movilidad social y del mérito. En un contexto de desigualdad persistente, el mérito es percibido como la herramienta principal para avanzar socialmente, especialmente para las mujeres.Los hallazgos destacan la importancia de explorar las particularidades y subjetividades de los individuos, al proporcionar una visión sólida y significativa de la sociedad chilena, capaz de abordar de manera integral las demandas sociales del país.
After 10 Years of MTB-MLE Implementation: Narratives of First-Hand Implementers
Authors: Alagasi April Jean D. , Baguio Josephine B.
Published: January 2025

In the current language in education policy in the Philippines, there is a minimal data on the experiences of first-hand implementers in MTB-MLE during its implementing years especially in the Davao City. This phenomenological research aimed to explore the experiences of the first-hand MTB-MLE implementers, and educational insights to sustain its implementation. Results revealed that the experiences of the first-hand implementers showed positivity and openness among them; considered MTB-MLE as a mandate, beneficial and fallible; adhered to training and development; helped prepare learning materials; and, implemented it in a multilingual setting. It has been proven that from the experiences, educational insights to sustain MTB-MLE were drawn such as: motivating factors to sustain; utilizing technology in multilingual classrooms; applying the strategies from trainings; and, actualizing the policy as a mandate. The first-hand implementers became familiar with government standards and understand that those standards are the foundation for the MTB-MLE curriculum; they understand that in following the MTB-MLE curriculum they will enable their students to achieve the government standards; hence, they would enable students to achieve the kind of learning the students deserve. On the part of the first-hand implementers, the occurrence of the identified experiences is a call for the policymakers and curriculum designers to monitor and evaluate the feedback coming from the grassroots in order to identify points crucial for the betterment of the language policy.
Stress Management Techniques and Coping Strategies Mechanism of Teachers in the New Normal Education
Authors: Botona Marie M. , Baguio Josephine B.
Published: January 2025

This study determined the stress management techniques and coping strategies mechanism of teachers in the new normal education in public elementary schools, Mintal District, Division of Davao City. This study used the non-experimental quantitative research design utilizing correlational method. The respondents of this study were composed of 133 teachers in public elementary school using the universal sampling. The data analysis utilized the mean, pearson r and regression analysis. The findings disclosed that the stress management techniques of teachers in the new normal education in terms of relaxation techniques, time-management skills, counseling, exercise and healthy lifestyle were moderate and sometimes manifested. Moreover, coping strategies mechanism of teachers in the new normal education in terms of problem solving, self-control and responsibility were also moderate and sometimes manifested. It was found out that there was a significant relationship between stress management techniques and coping strategies mechanism of teachers in the new normal. It revealed further that the domains of stress management techniques significantly influence coping strategies mechanism of teachers in the new normal education. Based on the findings, the public school teachers may attend consultations and training from the DepEd for professional growth platform. This may provide skillful progress for teachers with the objective of constructing capabilities thoroughly and reinforced education chances for learners and simultaneously learn the content of better educational practices. Additionally, the findings highlight the need for targeted stress management programs and coping strategy workshops for teachers, as their well-being directly impacts the quality of education. By equipping educators with effective techniques, schools can foster a healthier teaching environment, leading to improved teacher performance and better learning outcomes for students.
Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis for Yield Attributing Traits in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Dwivedi Pankaj Kumar , Singh Bineeta
Published: January 2025

The present investigation was carried out to estimate the nature and magnitude of variability parameters and characters associations among 19 genotypes of wheat for 12 characters. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Completely Block Design with 3 replications during rabi, 2022-23 at Research Farm of Genetics and plant breeding AKS University, Stana, (M.P). The Analysis of variance indicated that the mean sum of squares due to genotypes were highly significant for all the traits. Seed Yield per Plant also demonstrated considerable genetic variability (GCV: 17.37%, PCV: 18.60%) with high heritability (87.20%) and a genetic advancement of 14.95, confirming its potential for genetic enhancement. Seed yield per plant is strongly correlated with the number of productive tillers (0.808**), biological yield (0.354**), number of seeds per spike (0.357**), and harvest index (0.327*), making these traits vital for breeding programs focused on yield improvement. Days to 50% flowering positively correlates with plant height (0.590**), number of seeds per spike (0.471**), test weight (0.319**), and harvest index (0.330**), but negatively with days to maturity (-0.428**) and biological yield (-0.378**).
A Brief Review on Hydrological Modelling
Authors: Sahu Chinmayee , Chandniha Surendra Kumar
Published: January 2025

The interaction between water, climate, soil and land use is primary to the hydrological modelling concept. Hydrological models include spatial and temporal features. Hydrologists utilize hydrologic models as a primary tool for a variety of tasks including managing water resources, managing urban and rural areas, modelling ground water and more. In order to implement hydrologic models with ease, it is necessary to thoroughly comprehend their properties which have been developed and improved through the years. It is difficult to categorize hydrologic models precisely and various hydrologists may use different criteria. The reason is that while numerous models share common traits, the nature of the model is frequently the same. In this paper, the discussion starts with an introduction to ancient hydrology followed by the anthropogenic factors which directly or indirectly affect hydrological flows. Further the paper reviews hydrological modelling and the evolution of hydrologic models. The research aims to demonstrate classification of hydrologic models. The proper application of a model requires an in-depth understanding of it. In this research, eleven watershed hydrologic models were reviewed: ANN model, Unit Hydrograph, SCS-CN model, SVM model, HBV, TOPMODEL, PRMS, MIKESHE, VIC, HEC-HMS, MODFLOW and SWAT. SWAT model, one of the non-point source pollution models, is discussed along with its history and its major input variables. This literature also compiles and discusses applications of the SWAT model. SWAT was found to be promising models for long-term continuous simulations in agricultural watersheds. In agricultural watersheds, SWAT has been found to be the most assuring model for long-term continuous simulations.
Bee Forage Tree Resources for Wild Honeybees: A Case Study from Kodagu's Sacred Groves and Coffee Agroecosystems
Authors: Neelagund Akash Sangappa , Kencharaddi R. N. , S. Y Chandrashekar , Krishna K. S. Anantha , T.S Hareesh
Published: January 2025

Wild honeybee populations are fundamental to biodiversity conservation and agricultural productivity, particularly as pollinators in tropical regions. This study investigated the diversity and seasonal availability of bee forage trees within sacred groves and coffee agro ecosystems in Kodagu, Karnataka, a biodiversity-rich area in the Western Ghats. Sacred groves, protected for cultural reasons, feature high floral diversity, providing continuous nectar and pollen resources, crucial for wild bee populations throughout the year. In contrast, coffee plantations, particularly in semi-evergreen systems, offer valuable yet seasonally limited forage, supplemented by selective native tree retention. By integrating traditional ecological knowledge associated with sacred groves and modern conservation practices, the research highlights how culturally protected landscapes contribute to year-round floral resources, crucial for sustaining wild bee populations. Sacred groves were found to consistently surpass coffee plantations in floral diversity and forage stability, particularly in semi-evergreen groves, which recorded the highest diversity and richness (H' = 3.75, 52 species). In contrast, coffee plantations, enhanced by selective retention of native trees, offer seasonally valuable but limited forage, with moderate diversity (H' = 3.35, 54 species). The study identifies key forage species unique to sacred groves and underscores their role in maintaining ecological resilience. These findings have practical implications for guiding community-based conservation programs, demonstrating that leveraging sacred groves and ecologically managed coffee agroecosystems can effectively balance biodiversity conservation with agricultural productivity. This integrated approach offers a model for sustaining pollinator populations vital to ecosystem health and crop yields.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Selected Community Pharmacists towards the Disposal of Unused and Expired Medicines at Kalaburagi City
Authors: Biradar S.S. , Namrata  , Saakshi  , Mangani Sourabh M , Kulkarni Vaishnavi A
Published: January 2025

Purpose: Disposing of unused and expired drugs presents a critical challenge with far-reaching implications for public health and environmental well-being. This issue has gained increasing attention as pharmaceutical consumption rises globally. Improper disposal practices can contaminate water bodies, soil, and ecosystems, endangering human and aquatic life. Hazards to human and environmental health and safety are high when pharmaceuticals that have been used and are no longer needed are not properly disposed of. This is why the current research is an effort to gather data on the understanding of Kalaburagi City's community pharmacists regarding proper disposal of leftover and expired medications.
Methodology: The study was conducted in various areas and colonies of Kalaburagi city, over six months from March to August 2023 for evaluating opinions with regards to disposing of unwanted medicines. Tools and teaching aids used for the study are specially designed pretested and validated questionnaires, leaflets, and videos. The study design used is “A case-control study”. The inclusion criteria were, Pharmacists willing to participate, Government pharmacists, and Private pharmacists. The exclusion criteria were, Pharmacists who were not interested in participating, and person without a pharmacy background. The survey was carried out in Kalaburagi city and was divided into two groups North (test) and South (control). The test group received counseling regarding the methods of disposal of unused and expired medicines and leaflets, whereas the control group received only leaflets.
Results: A study of 461 pharmacists found that 79% were male and 21% female, with 42.3% aged 31 to 40. Notably, 92% regularly check medication expiry dates, and 85% are concerned about drugs polluting the environment. An overwhelming 94% support drug take-back programs. Most pharmacists (84%) recognize improper disposal as a health risk, and 92% return expired medicines to manufacturers. For disposal methods, 49% suggest returning expired meds to pharmacists, while 10% recommend flushing and 24% advise disposal in sinks. There is a push for increased consumer awareness, with 50% wanting healthcare professionals to educate on safe disposal, and 38% advocating for government-led programs.
Conclusion: The awareness regarding, the impact of improper disposal of pharmaceutical products is still unknown. It is a cornered issue and needs to be focused on. The current methods and practices are not optimal and upgraded. Pharmacists possess knowledge regarding the proper disposal of unused and expired medicines. However, they often lack the attitude to implement these practices effectively. Lack of standardized disposal facilities, limited regulatory enforcement policies and public awareness regarding safe disposal have contributed to the gap between the knowledge and practice of pharmacists.
Vegetal Oil Transesterification Using Tetranuclear Zinc-Diterpene Clusters as the Catalysts
Authors: Martínez-Torres Mayra A. , Talavera-Alemán Armando , Zamudio-Jaime Karina , Villagómez-Guzmán Ana K. , Quevedo-Tinoco Lirenny , Rico José L. , Rosas Gerardo , Del Río Rosa E. , Gómez-Hurtado Mario A. , Rodríguez-García Gabriela
Published: January 2025

Organic natural products, particularly vegetal secondary metabolites, represent a highlighted source for molecules usable for many purposes, including synthesizing catalysts. Biocompatible metals can yield interesting coordination complexes to provide sustainable and valuable compounds. In the present paper, the unique in their class (μ4-oxo)-hexakis(μ2-beyerenate)-tetra-zinc(II) (1) and (μ4-oxo)-hexakis(μ2-kaurenate)-tetra-zinc(II) (2) are suggested as eco-friendly catalysts for transesterification reactions. The heterogeneous/homogeneous catalytic potential of 1 and 2 was revealed using olive oil as an equilibrated saturated-unsaturated fatty acid mixture and methanol as the nucleophile and solvent. Systematic variations in reaction conditions were achieved herein, including temperature, catalyst mass, methanol volume, and reaction time, allowing a yield of up to 97% in the transesterification process. The FAME product was characterized using 1H NMR and GC-MS, and the calorific value of 33.72 MJ/kg was concordant with the literature. The thermogravimetric, powder X-ray diffraction, and Scanning Electron Microscopy experiments complemented the catalyst properties before and after the catalytic tests. This finding suggests that coordination complexes using natural products as ligands represent a new class of potential ecological catalysts from industry and scientific research in crucial chemical reactions. Copyright © 2025 by Authors, Published by BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Political Ideology and Trust in Government Health Agencies for Cancer Information
Authors: Chido-Amajuoyi Onyema G. , Onyeaka Henry K. , Sokale Itunu O. , Nwani Somto , Barcenas Carlos H. , Amonoo Hermioni L. , Shete Sanjay
Published: November 2023

This cross-sectional study assesses the association between political ideology and trust in government health agencies for cancer information.
NASADAD releases fact sheet on methamphetamine
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2023

A fact sheet from the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD) discussed, among other topics, treatment for methamphetamine use disorder, a growing problem in the time of fentanyl when both opioids and stimulants are mixed, and there is a trend toward more methamphetamine problems (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.33835see).
Cartilage‐Inspired Multidirectional Strain Sensor with High Elasticity and Anisotropy Based on Segmented Embedded Strategy
Authors: Jiang Haocheng , Jiang Saihua , Chen Guohua , Lan Yang
Published: November 2023

Flexible, stretchable, and sensitive multidirectional sensing systems that can decouple different mechanical inputs and identify multidirectional signals are crucial for dynamic human signal perception and intelligent human–computer interaction. Most reported multidirectional sensors are suitable for discriminating in‐plane deformation directions, and the sensing materials are difficult to balance between stretchability and mechanical strength. Here, a segmented embedded structure strategy inspired by the interlaced structure of cartilage is proposed. This strategy combines soft and hard materials in a topological and zipper‐shear chain manner and balances the performance of reinforced composites with flexibility and high toughness. In the case of segmented embedded hydrogels (SEHs), a wearable multidirectional sensing system that can decouple and identify planar strain/pressure is constructed. The multidirectional sensing system exploits the inherent anisotropy and layered structure design of composites to decouple the sensing functions. Supported by machine learning algorithms, the high accuracy demonstration of the multidirectional sensors in typical multidirectional motion joint posture monitoring and recognition confirms their potential in practical applications such as personal health sensing and human–computer interaction.
Improved Durability of Ti3C2Tz at Potentials above the Reversible Hydrogen Electrode by Tantalum Substitution
Authors: Favelukis Bar , Chakrabartty Sukanta , Kumar Vipin , Kim Se‐Ho , El‐Zoka Ayman , Krämer Mathias , Raabe Dierk , Gault Baptiste , Eliaz Noam , Natan Amir , Sokol Maxim , Rosen Brian A.
Published: November 2023

MXenes have gained significant attention, particularly Ti3C2Tz, as materials with favorable properties for energy storage and conversion applications. The overwhelming majority of electrochemical durability studies are based on durability in the hydrogen evolution window, well below the reversible hydrogen electrode where degradation via electrochemical oxidation is less relevant. Consequently, few strategies have been put forward to protect Ti3C2Tz at higher potentials and widen their applicability to electrochemical systems. Here, the electrochemical degradation of pristine Ti3C2Tz and tantalum (Ta)‐substituted (Ti0.95Ta0.05)3C2Tz is reported. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electron microscopy revealed that pristine and Ta‐doped MXene went through entirely different degradation mechanisms, and that these mechanisms are driven by electrochemical, rather than chemical effects. Density functional theory is used to explain the role of Ta doping with respect to the binding of oxygen and the formation of metal oxide phases. The influence of the degradation mechanism is observed by accelerated stress tests and anode reversal tests on a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell. Therefore, the substitution of titanium (Ti) with other oxyphilic metals in Ti3C2Tz may be an effective route to improve the durability of the otherwise fragile MXene phase.
Portable and Rapid Dual‐Biomarker Detection Using Solution‐Gated Graphene Field Transistors in the Accurate Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Deng Minghua , Yang Huan , Zhang Huibin , Li Chaoqian , Chen Jingqiu , Tang Wei , Wang Xianbao , Chen Zhaowei , Li Jinhua
Published: November 2023

Prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) is the common serum‐relevant biomarker for early prostate cancer (PCa) detection in clinical diagnosis. However, it is difficult to accurately diagnose PCa in the early stage due to the low specificity of PSA. Herein, a new solution‐gated graphene field transistor (SGGT) biosensor with dual‐gate for dual‐biomarker detection is designed. The sensing mechanism is that the designed aptamers immobilized on the surface of the gate electrodes can capture PSA and sarcosine (SAR) biomolecules and induce the capacitance changes of the electric double layers of SGGT. The limit of detections of PSA and SAR biomarkers can reach 0.01 fg mL−1, which is three‐to‐four orders of magnitude lower than previously reported assays. The detection time of PSA and SAR is ≈4.5 and ≈13 min, which is significantly faster than the detection time (1–2 h) of conventional methods. The clinical serum samples testing demonstrates that the biosensor can distinguish the PCa patients from the control group and the diagnosis accuracy can reach 100%. The SGGT biosensor can be integrated into the portable platform and the diagnostic results can directly display on the smartphone/Pad. Therefore, the integrated portable platform of the biosensor can distinguish cancer types through the dual‐biomarker detection.
A Counterion‐Free Strategy for Chronic Metabolic Acidosis Based on an Orally Administered Gut‐Restricted Inorganic Adsorbent
Authors: Liu Zhen , Xiang Liang , Tian Meng , Wang Haoyu , Zhao Xin , Liu Kangfei , Yu Jia , Liu Tianzhi , Liu Shangpeng , Mu Xin , Yang Bingxue , Zhang Shiyi , Luo Jie
Published: November 2023

Chronic metabolic acidosis, arising as a complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD), not only reduces patients’ quality of life but also aggravates renal impairment. The only available therapeutic modality, involving intravenous infusion of NaHCO3, engenders undesirable sodium retention, thereby increasing hemodynamic load and seriously exacerbating the primary disease. This deleterious cascade extends to the development of cardiovascular diseases. Herein, an orally administered, gut‐restricted inorganic adsorbent that can effectively alleviate chronic metabolic acidosis without causing any electrolytic derangement or superfluous cardiovascular strain is developed. The genesis of ABC‐350 entails the engineering of bismuth subcarbonate via annealing, thereby yielding a partially β‐Bi2O3‐doped (BiO)2CO3 biphasic crystalline structure framework enriched with atomic vacancies. ABC‐350 can selectively remove chloride ions and protons from the gastrointestinal tract, mimicking the physiological response to gastric acid removal and resulting in increased serum bicarbonate. Owing to its gut‐restricted nature, ABC‐350 exhibits commendable biosafety, averting undue systemic exposure. In two rat models of metabolic acidosis, ABC‐350 emerges not only as a potent mitigator of acidosis but also effects discernible amelioration concerning proximal tubular morphology, interstitial fibrosis, and the incendiary cascades incited by metabolic acidosis. ABC‐350, as the translationally relevant material, provides a promising strategy for the treatment of metabolic acidosis.
Protein Nanotubes as Advanced Material Platforms and Delivery Systems
Authors: Liu Bin , Li Xing , Zhang Ji Peng , Li Xin , Yuan Yu , Hou Guo Hua , Zhang Hui Juan , Zhang Hui , Li Yuan , Mezzenga Raffaele
Published: November 2023

Protein nanotubes (PNTs) as state‐of‐the‐art nanocarriers are promising for various potential applications both in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Derived from edible starting sources like α‐lactalbumin, lysozyme, and ovalbumin, PNTs bear properties of biocompatibility and biodegradability. Their large specific surface area and hydrophobic core facilitate chemical modification and loading of bioactive substances, respectively. Moreover, their enhanced permeability and penetration ability across biological barriers such as intestinal mucus, extracellular matrix, and thrombus clot, make it promising platforms for health‐related applications. Most importantly, their simple preparation processes enable large‐scale production, supporting applications in the biomedical and nanotechnological fields. Understanding the self‐assembly principles is crucial for controlling their morphology, size, and shape, and thus provides the ground to a multitude of applications. Here, the current state‐of‐the‐art of PNTs including their building materials, physicochemical properties, and self‐assembly mechanisms are comprehensively reviewed. The advantages and limitations, as well as challenges and prospects for their successful applications in biomaterial and pharmaceutical sectors are then discussed and highlighted. Potential cytotoxicity of PNTs and the need of regulations as critical factors for enabling in vivo applications are also highlighted. In the end, a brief summary and future prospects for PNTs as advanced platforms and delivery systems are included.
High‐Resolution Recording of Neural Activity in Epilepsy Using Flexible Neural Probes
Authors: Cheng Qian , Li Gen , Tian Ye , Wang Han , Ye Yifei , Zhou Cunkai , Xu Chengjian , Nie Yanyan , Yang Huiran , Zhou Zhitao , Li Meng , Wei Xiaoling , Liu Qiangqiang , Tao Tiger H. , Sun Liuyang
Published: November 2023

Epilepsy, a prevalent neurological disorder, necessitates precise and reliable electrophysiological recording for accurate study and diagnosis. Although traditional stereo‐electroencephalography and micro‐wire probes are widely used in epilepsy research, they are limited by recording site numbers and mechanical properties. This study explores the use of high‐density, ultra‐flexible neural probes in epilepsy monitoring, highlighting their advantages in terms of recording performance, scalability, and tissue compatibility. This work validates the effectiveness of the probes in detecting characteristic epileptic signals across various stages, including resting, preictal, and ictal stages, in two different mouse models of epilepsy. Additionally, the high spatial resolution of the probes allows to capture fine spatial propagation of epilepsy‐associated high‐frequency oscillations. Furthermore, the flexible probes exhibit superior biocompatibility, reducing inflammation and neuronal apoptosis compared to rigid electrodes. The results underscore the promising potential of ultra‐flexible neural probes for advancing epilepsy research, providing a powerful technological platform for future studies in the field.
Optical Constants and Optical Anisotropy of Ultrathin Gold Films
Authors: Akolzina Diana , Kravets Vasyl G. , Berdyugin Alexey I. , Grigorenko Alexander N.
Published: November 2023

Continuous and homogeneous thin gold films are fabricated on Si–SiO2 substrates using an additional seed layer based on Cu oxide or oxidized Cu. The optical properties of these gold films with thicknesses from 3 to 50 nm are studied with the help of variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometry. The optical constants and the dielectric functions of thin Au films in the wavelength range of 240–1700 nm are extracted by fitting measured ellipsometric data using the Fresnel isotropic and anisotropic models. By applying the Drude approximation to the infrared range, values of the plasma frequency ωp and relaxation time τ are obtained as a function of film thickness. It is found that plasma frequency ωp of the gold films is mostly constant in the thickness range of 3–50 nm with an average being close to the bulk value ωp ≈ 8.45 eV. The relaxation time decreases dramatically from the bulk values of τ ≈ 14 fs to τ ≈ 2 fs for gold films of 3 nm in an agreement with the confinement effect. It is established that the thinnest gold films (≈3 nm) are described better by an anisotropic layer and the underlying reasons for such optical anisotropy are discussed.
Sodium Butyrate Regulates Gasdermin B Exerted Protection Effect on the MTX‐Induced NCM460 and Hum Cells
Authors: Jiang Chensheng , Liu Yang , Chen Hangping , Qian Yifan , Tang Leilei , Wu Channi , Han Tiemei , Jin Chengfeng , Ju Haihong , Shen Xiaofeng , Yu Jiawen , Zhang Lingdi , Dai Yiyang , Jiang Guojun
Published: November 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a complex disorder with unclear etiology, and the impact of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) on its pathogenesis is not well‐studied. This research explores the potential protective effects of sodium butyrate (NaB) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through the Gasdermin B (GSDMB) non‐pyroptotic pathway. Fecal SCFA levels and GSDMB‐related proteins of IBD patients are analyzed. NCM460 and HUM cells are treated with methotrexate (MTX) for 24 hours. NaB is applied at concentrations of 1, 5, and 10 mm mL−1 to cells. It is found that a decrease in SCFAs content, zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), and Occludin expression, along with an increase in GSDMB, focal adhesion kinase (FAK), and extracellular singal‐regulated kinase (ERK) in IBD patients is observed. NaB, at medium and high concentrations, promotes cell viability and migration and increased GSDMB expression. The low concentration of NaB has a significant protective effect on IBD‐affected cells, activating the GSDMB non‐pyroptotic pathway. This protection diminishes after the GSDMB knockdown. The study reveals that NaB may play a crucial role in protecting intestinal epithelial integrity in IBD through the GSDMB non‐pyroptotic pathway. These findings underline the potential of targeting this pathway for therapeutic strategies, highlighting the importance of SCFAs in understanding and treating IBD.
Orientation of Corannulenes inside Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Thamwattana Ngamta , Karton Amir , Sripaturad Panyada , Stevens Kyle , Baowan Duangkamon
Published: November 2023

Corannulenes have received much interest due to their electronic properties, which differ between the convex and concave surfaces of the molecule. The ability to control the shapes of corannulenes to optimize charge distribution is therefore important for the development of seminconductors and electronic devices. In this paper, the interactions of corannulenes are modeled inside carbon nanotubes of various sizes using the Lennard–Jones potential and a continuum approach. The major contribution of this work is the analytical expressions for the interaction energy, which are obtained as a function of the nanotube's radius, the offset distance of corannulene from the tube's axis and the orientation of corannulene. Minimizing this energy, the range of nanotube's radii that allow the corannulene to adopt lying, tilting and standing configurations both on‐ and off‐axis of the nanotubes is determined. These results are supported by the density functional theory calculations and agree with previously published work using molecular dynamics simulations for corannulenes located on the nanotube's axis.
Label‐Free Imaging Flow Cytometry for Cell Classification Based on Multiple Interferometric Projections Using Deep Learning
Authors: Cohen Anat , Dudaie Matan , Barnea Itay , Borrelli Francesca , Běhal Jaromír , Miccio Lisa , Memmolo Pasquale , Bianco Vittorio , Ferraro Pietro , Shaked Natan T.
Published: November 2023

A new label‐free imaging flow cytometry method for noninvasive and automated biological cell classification is presented. Each cell is rolled during flow, and its off‐axis holograms from multiple viewpoints are acquired. Using the reconstructed quantitative phase profiles of the cell projections, highly discriminating features, enabling cell detection, classification, and differentiation, are extracted via a modified ResNet‐18 deep convolutional neural network architecture. The model is first validated by classifying metastatic breast carcinoma cells (MCF‐7) and normal human mammary epithelial cells (MCF‐10A). An increase in classification accuracy by 1% is achieved when processing five interferometric projections versus processing a single interferometric projection. This model is further tested on four types of white blood cells and exhibits an accuracy increase of 5% when processing 12 interferometric projections versus processing a single interferometric projection. This approach is shown to be superior to that of using conventional 2D‐rotation augmentation, and can be used to decrease substantially the number of cell examples needed for training the classification model without impairing the results. This novel concept has great potential to be incorporated into label‐free imaging flow cytometry and improve cell classification, and be used to detect various types of medical conditions and diseases.
How accurate is the human olfactory system in detecting peanuts?
Authors: Kim Yeo E. , Wang Andrea , Christos Paul J. , Valente Katherine E. , Reisacher William R.
Published: November 2023

Key Points

This is the first study to quantify the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the human olfactory system in detecting peanuts in common food items.

With more competing sensory input, the human olfactory sensitivity to peanuts decreases; this is especially evident when peanuts are mixed in sauces.

Metrics established in this study can be used to develop standards for determining the clinical utility of allergen detecting devices that are currently under development.