bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease are affected by temperature: A controlled pilot study
Authors: Huang Ting , Wang Xi‐Xi , Gao Chen‐Yu , Zhao Jin‐Ying , Pan Rong‐Rong , Jin Hui‐Hui , Tian You‐Yong , Zhang Ying‐Dong
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The motor symptoms (MS) of Parkinson's disease (PD) have been affecting the quality of life in patients. In clinical practice, most patients with PD report that MS are more severe in winter than in summer, and hyperthermic baths (HTB) could temporarily improve MS. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of seasonal variation and aquatic thermal environment of HTB on the MS of PD.

Patients and methods

A cross‐sectional study of 203 Chinese Han patients was performed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to analyze seasonal variation in MS relative to baseline data (sex, age at onset, duration, season of birth, Hoehn and Yahr stage, family history, levodopa equivalent dose, and the effect of HTB on MS). Ten subjects participated in the HTB study, and one patient dropped out. The paired Wilcoxon rank test was used to assess the differences in the Movement Disorder Society‐United Parkinson's disease Rating Scale (MDS‐UPDRS) part III motor examination total scores and the modified Webster Symptoms Score between non‐HTB and before HTB and between non‐HTB and after HTB.

Results

The improvement of MS after HTB was an independent risk factor for seasonal variation in MS (OR, 25.203; 95% CI, 10.951–58.006; p = .000). Patients with PD had significant improvements in the MDS‐UPDRS part III motor examination total scores, especially in bradykinesia (p = .043), rigidity (p = .008), posture (p = .038), and rest tremor amplitude (p = .047).

Conclusion

Seasonal variation in temperature and water temperature of HTB may affect MS in some patients with PD. Simple HTB could be recommended as physiotherapy for patients with PD who report temperature‐sensitive MS.
Prediction of poststroke cognitive impairment based on the systemic inflammatory response index
Authors: Chu Min , Luo Yunhe , Wang Daosheng , Liu Zhuohang , Niu Huicong , Wu Xuechun , Wang Yong , Lin Jixian , Wang Qiang , Zhao Jing
Published: January 2024

Background

Poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is a prevalent complication among stroke survivors. Although the systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI) has been shown to be a reliable predictor of a variety of inflammatory diseases, the association between the SIRI and PSCI is still unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between SIRI and PSCI, and to design a nomogram to predict the risk of PSCI in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients.

Methods

A total of 1342 patients with AIS were included in the study. Using the Mini‐Mental State Examination scale, patients were separated into PSCI and non‐PSCI groups within 2 weeks of stroke. Clinical data and SIRI values were compared between the groups. We developed the optimal nomogram for predicting PSCI using multivariate logistic regression. Finally, the nomogram was validated using the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

In total, 690 (51.4%) patients were diagnosed with PSCI. After adjusting for potential confounders, the SIRI (OR = 1.226, OR: 1.095–1.373, p < .001) was shown to be an independent risk factor for PSCI in the logistic regression analysis. The nomogram based on patient gender, age, admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores, education, diabetes mellitus, and SIRI had good discriminative ability with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.716. The calibration curve and Hosmer–Lemeshow test revealed excellent predictive accuracy for the nomogram. Finally, the DCA showed the good clinical utility of the model.

Conclusion

Increased SIRI on admission is correlated with PSCI, and the nomogram built with SIRI as one of the predictors can help identify PSCI early.
Distinct changes in brain metabolism in patients with dementia and hearing loss
Authors: Han Ji Hyuk , Lee Sangwon , Bae Seong Hoon , Yun Mijin , Ye Byung Seok , Jung Jinsei
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Previous studies have reported that hearing loss (HL) is associated with dementia, although the mechanistic underpinnings remain elusive. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in brain metabolism in patients with HL and different types of dementia.

Methods

Patients with cognitive impairment (CI) and HL treated at the university‐based memory clinic from May 2016 to October 2021 were included. In total, 108 patients with CI and HL prospectively underwent audiometry, neuropsychological test, magnetic resonance imaging, and 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography. Twenty‐seven individuals without cognitive impairment and hearing loss were enrolled as a control group. Multivariable regression was performed to evaluate brain regions correlated with each pathology type after adjusting for confounding factors.

Results

Multivariable regression analyses revealed that Alzheimer's disease‐related CI (ADCI) was associated with hypometabolic changes in the right superior temporal gyrus (STG), right middle temporal gyrus (MTG), and bilateral medial temporal lobe. Lewy body disease‐related CI (LBDCI) and vascular CI were associated with hypermetabolic and hypometabolic changes in the ascending auditory pathway, respectively. In the pure ADCI group, the degree of HL was positively associated with abnormal increase of brain metabolism in the right MTG, whereas it was negatively associated with decreased brain metabolism in the right STG in the pure LBDCI group.

Conclusion

Each dementia type is associated with distinct changes in brain metabolism in patients with HL.
Performance of potentially inappropriate medications assessment tools in older Indian patients with cancer
Authors: Kumar Sharath , Castelino Renita , Rao Abhijith , Gattani Shreya , Kumar Anita , Pillai Anupa , Sehgal Arshiya , Rane Pallavi , Ramaswamy Anant , Dhekale Ratan , Krishnamurthy Jyoti , Banavali Shripad , Badwe Rajendra , Prabhash Kumar , Noronha Vanita , Gota Vikram
Published: January 2024

Background

Polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use are common problems in older adults. Safe prescription practices are a necessity. The tools employed for the identification of PIM sometimes do not concur with each other.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients ≥60 years who visited the Geriatric Oncology Clinic of the Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India from 2018 to 2021 was performed. Beer's‐2015, STOPP/START criteria v2, PRISCUS‐2010, Fit fOR The Aged (FORTA)‐2018, and the EU(7)‐PIM list‐2015 were the tools used to assess PIM. Every patient was assigned a standardized PIM value (SPV) for each scale, which represented the ratio of the number of PIMs identified by a given scale to the total number of medications taken. The median SPV of all five tools was considered the reference standard for each patient. Bland–Altman plots were utilized to determine agreement between each scale and the reference. Association between baseline variables and PIM use was determined using multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

Of the 467 patients included in this analysis, there were 372 (79.66%) males and 95 (20.34%) females with an average age of 70 ± 5.91 years. The EU(7)‐PIM list was found to have the highest level of agreement given by a bias estimate of 0.010, the lowest compared to any other scale. The 95% CI of the bias was in the narrow range of −0.001 to 0.022, demonstrating the precision of the estimate. In comparison, the bias (95%) CI of Beer's criteria, STOPP/START criteria, PRISCUS list, and FORTA list were −0.039 (−0.053 to −0.025), 0.076 (0.060 to 0.092), 0.035 (0.021 to 0.049), and −0.148 (−0.165 to −0.130), respectively. Patients on polypharmacy had significantly higher PIM use compared to those without (OR = 1.47 (1.33–1.63), p = <0.001).

Conclusions

The EU(7)‐PIM list was found to have the least bias and hence can be considered the most reliable among all other tools studied.
Graves' disease with pancytopenia: A rare case report
Authors: Meftah Neda , Sedaghat Sadegh , Rabizadeh Soghra , Seifouri Sara , Nasirimeh Khatereh , Nakhjavani Manouchehr
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

In this case report we describe a patient with Grave's disease (GD) who was first diagnosed with pancytopenia and did not have any typical symptoms of GD. His hematologic abnormalities were alleviated after treatment with an anti‐thyroid drug. Hence, in patients with pancytopenia, GD should also be considered.

A variety of hematologic abnormalities can be seen in Graves' disease (GD), however; here, we describe a patient with GD and a very rare complication; pancytopenia. His hematologic abnormalities and clinical status were alleviated after treatment with an anti‐thyroid drug. Hence, in patients with pancytopenia and normal bone marrow examination, GD should also be considered.
A nonneutralizing antibody as cause of prothrombin deficiency in a patient with follicular lymphoma
Authors: Augustsson Cecilia , Taxbro Knut , Strandberg Karin , Zetterberg Eva
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

Acquired inhibitors of blood coagulation are rare but of clinical importance. Prothrombin is a vitamin K‐dependent protein, and acquired antibodies toward prothrombin are often associated with the presence of lupus anticoagulant. We describe a previously healthy 70‐year‐old man presenting with both hemorrhage and thrombosis as well as a prolonged prothrombin time. At arrival at the hospital, he was diagnosed with deep venous thrombosis, and an enlarged lymph node in the left groin was noted (revealed as follicular lymphoma grade 1 by biopsy). Prothrombin activity and antibody titer were followed for 5 months with 15 sampling time points to monitor the treatment outcome of the patient. Diagnostic work‐up identified prothrombin deficiency as cause of bleeding. A nonneutralizing calcium‐dependent antiprothrombin antibody was found, suspected to increase the clearance of prothrombin, which has previously only occasionally been reported. Lupus anticoagulant was ruled out and thrombosis was judged to be caused by a combination of malignant disease and stagnant venous flow following enlarged lymph nodes in the groin. This report illustrates how investigation of prolonged global coagulation tests, triggered the diagnosis of a rare but critical condition, immune‐mediated prothrombin deficiency. The diagnosis is challenging and involves proper differential diagnosis.
Reversibility systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve after aortic valve replacement for severe aortic stenosis
Authors: Huang Kun , Yang Jiaqi , Li Xuejie
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

Patients with aortic valve replacement (AVR) for severe aortic stenosis (AS) will cause reversibility systolic anterior motion (SAM). This may occur because of afterload reduction caused by the relief of the AS and the prolonged anterior mitral valve. It is important to evaluate the mechanism of SAM by intraoperative real‐time transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).

This case video describes the presentation and successful treatment of a 58‐year‐old man who experienced post‐AVR SAM with dynamic (left ventricle outflow tract) LVOT obstruction. This case highlights the fact that patients with AVR for severe AS may cause reversible SAM. This may occur because of afterload reduction caused by the relief of the AS combined with the prolonged anterior mitral valve. It is important to evaluate the mechanism of SAM by intraoperative real‐time TEE and then make the surgical decision.
In‐situ Construction of Poly(tetraisopentyl acrylate) based Gel Polymer Electrolytes with LixLa2‐xTiO3 for High Energy Density Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhu Junli , Zhong Jiawei , Lin Yuhan , Wang Yating , Xie Tangtang , Shen Zhichuan , Li Jie , Shi Zhicong
Published: January 2024

As promising alternatives to liquid electrolytes, polymer electrolytes attract much research interest recently, but their widespread use is limited by the low ionic conductivity. In this study, we use electrostatic spinning to introduce particles of an ionic conductor into polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers to prepare a porous membrane as the host of gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs). The relevant in‐situ produced GPE performs a high ionic conductivity of 6.0×10−3 S cm−1, and a high lithium transfer number (tLi+) of 0.85 at 30 °C, respectively. A symmetrical Li cell with this GPE can cycle stably for 550 h at a current density of 0.5 mA cm−2. While the capacity retention of the NCM|GPE|Li cell is 79.84 % after 500 cycles at 2 C. Even with an increased cut‐off voltage of 4.5 V, the 1st coulomb efficiency reaches 91.58 % with a specific discharge capacity of 213.4 mAh g−1. This study provides a viable route for the practical application of high energy density lithium metal batteries.
Breast cancer survival in India across 11 geographic areas under the National Cancer Registry Programme
Authors: Sathishkumar Krishnan , Sankarapillai Jayasankar , Mathew Aleyamma , Nair Rekha A. , Gangane Nitin , Khuraijam Sushma , Barmon Debabrata , Pandya Shashank , Majumdar Gautam , Deshmane Vinay , Zomawia Eric , Bhutia Tseten Wangyal , Jerang Kaling , George Preethi Sara , Maliye Swapna , Laishram Rajesh , Das Gaurav , Shah Anand , Debbarma Shiromani , Koyande Shravani , Pachuau Lalawmpuii , Sherpa Ashok , Jongkey Gegong , Chaturvedi Meesha , Das Priyanka , Santhappan Stephen , Mathur Prashant
Published: January 2024

Background

Population‐based cancer survival is a key indicator for assessing the effectiveness of cancer control by a health care system in a specific geographic area. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India, accounting for over one quarter of all female cancers. The objective of this study was to estimate the 5‐year survival of female patients who were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2012 and 2015 from the existing Population‐Based Cancer Registries (PBCRs) in India.

Methods

In total, 17,331 patients who had breast cancer diagnosed between 2012 and 2015 from 11 PBCRs were followed until June 30, 2021. Active methods were used to track the vital status of registered breast cancer cases. The study conducted survival analysis by calculating the difference between the date of first diagnosis and the date of death or censoring to estimate observed survival and relative survival using the actuarial survival approach and the Ederer‐II approach, respectively.

Results

The 5‐year age‐standardized relative survival (95% confidence interval [CI]) of patients with breast cancer was 66.4% (95% CI, 65.5%–67.3%). Mizoram (74.9%; 95% CI, 68.1%–80.8%), Ahmedabad urban (72.7%; 95% CI, 70.3%–74.9%), Kollam (71.5%; 95% CI, 69.2%–73.6%), and Thiruvananthapuram (69.1%; 95% CI, 67.0%–71.2%) had higher survival rates than the national average. Conversely, Pasighat had the lowest survival rate (41.9%; 95% CI, 14.7%–68.6%). The 5‐year observed survival rates for localized, regional, and distant metastasis in the pooled PBCRs were 81.0%, 65.5%, and 18.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

The overall disparity in survival rates was observed across 11 PBCRs, with lower survival rates reported in Manipur, Tripura, and Pasighat. Therefore, it is imperative to implement comprehensive cancer control strategies widely throughout the country.
Targeted Metabolic Investigation of Ligandrol and Analytical Methods Validation for Its Main Long‐term Metabolite
Authors: Angelis Yiannis S. , Sakellariou Panagiotis , Petrou Michael , Pitsinos Emmanuel N.
Published: January 2024

Prompted by the need for related analytical reference material in the frame of the fight against doping in sports, synthetic efforts towards the main long‐term bishydroxylated metabolite (LGD‐LTM1) of the nonsteroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) ligandrol have produced related derivatives that were exploited for a targeted metabolite analysis of urine samples obtained in the course of previous excretion studies of this SARM. Further clarifying ligandrol's metabolic profile, the availability of synthetic reference material permitted the structural elucidation of a previously reported pyrrolidinone‐type metabolite and revealed its potential analytical utility as an additional long‐term marker. Moreover, synthetic reference material enabled the comparison and validation of liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC‐MS)‐based and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC‐MS)‐based detection and identification methods focusing on the LGD‐LTM1 marker.
Discovery and Mechanistic Understanding of a Lipase from Rhizorhabdus dicambivorans for Efficient Ester Aminolysis in Aromatic Amines
Authors: Wang Jialing , Huang Zhuangzhuang , Xu Haodong , Nian Yong , Wu Bin , He Bingfang , Schenk Gerhard
Published: January 2024

The formation of amide bonds via aminolysis of esters by lipases generates a diverse range of amide frameworks in biosynthetic chemistry. Few lipases have satisfactory activity towards bulky aromatic amines despite numerous attempts to improve the efficiency of this transformation. Here, we report the discovery of a new intracellular lipase (Ndbn) with a broad substrate scope. Ndbn turns over a range of esters and aromatic amines in the presence of water (2 %; v/v), producing a high yield of multiple valuable amides. Remarkably, a higher conversion rate was observed for the synthesis of amides from substrates with aromatic amine rather than aliphatic amines. Molecular dynamics (MD) and quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) studies showcase the mechanism for the preference for aromatic amines, including a more suitable orientation, shorter catalytic distances in the active site pocket and a lower reaction barrier for aromatic than for aliphatic amines. This unique lipase is thus a promising biocatalyst for the efficient synthesis of aromatic amides.
Simulation of the impact of particle recycling on the plasma in MPS‐LD device based on the BOUT++ LPD module
Authors: Wang Yue , Sun Changjiang , Sang Chaofeng , Li Nami , Bian Yu , Wu Jintao , Zhang Mingzhou , Peng Yao , Zhang Yanjie , Gao Shuaishuai , Wang Dezhen
Published: January 2024

A linear plasma device (LPD) module has been developed under the BOUT++ framework to simulate plasma transport in the MPS‐LD. However, previously, the LPD module used a simplistic neutral particle model that only includes particle density and velocity, which prevents the full understanding of the plasma‐neutrals interactions. In this work, we further optimize the neutral model by using a more complete neutral fluid model containing the continuity equation, momentum equation, and energy equation. The reactions such as charge exchange, excitation, and radiation collisions are included. Since the neutral particle source is mainly provided by particle recycling from the target, a particle recycling model is employed, which includes both fast reflection and slow thermal release. The upgraded LPD module is applied to simulate the argon (Ar) discharge experiment of MPS‐LD, and the benchmark against experiment measurement and SOLPS‐ITER simulation results are presented. Good agreements are obtained, showing the validation of the upgraded module. After that, the impact of particle recycling on Ar plasma is investigated. It is found that a higher recycling coefficient (R) promotes the achievement of high‐density plasma at the target. The recycled Ar atoms change target plasma pressure as well as plasma‐neutral collisions, which both contribute to plasma momentum loss, thus promoting the rollover of ion flux to the target.
Efficacy and safety of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder drainage without dilation by using a 0.035‐inch stiff guidewire
Authors: Ono Michihiro , Ikeda Yuki , Ohmori Ginji , Arihara Yohei , Shibuya Ryo , Uesugi Atsushi , Oiwa Shutaro , Ito Ryo , Usami Makoto , Yamada Michiko , Abe Tomoyuki , Maeda Masahiro
Published: January 2024

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder drainage for patients with cholecystitis and high surgical risk is commonly performed by dilating the fistula before inserting the delivery sheath; however, this carries an increased risk of peritonitis. To overcome this problem, we developed a new technique that did not require dilation, using a 0.035‐inch stiff guidewire, and retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of this technique. This retrospective case series report collected data on non‐surgical patients who underwent endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder drainage for various indications at Steel Memorial Muroran Hospital between November 2020 and October 2022. A total of 71 patients were included (mean age 83 ± 7.6 years; 33 women and 38 men). Breakthrough of the delivery sheath without dilation of the fistula was successful in 97.2% (n = 69) of patients. The success rate of stent placement was 98.6% (n = 70), as was the clinical success rate. Complications occurred in 2.8% (n = 2) of patients. Early and late adverse events occurred in 2.8% (n = 2) and 12.7% (n = 9) of patients, respectively. The mean procedure time was 24.8 ± 9.3 min. If a 0.035‐inch stiff guidewire is used, the dilation procedure can be omitted in the endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder drainage using self‐expandable metal stents.
Associations between low body weight, weight loss, and medical instability in adults with eating disorders
Authors: Gibson Dennis , Stein Amy , Khatri Vishnupriya , Wesselink Delaney , Sitko Shelby , Mehler Philip S.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The physical complications of atypical anorexia nervosa remain understudied, with most studies completed in adolescents. This study seeks to examine the impact of various weight measures as predictors of medical instability in a large cohort of adult eating disorder patients.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, the impact of admission body mass index (BMI), weight suppression, and recent weight loss (the rate of weight loss within the last 12 months) toward the development of medical complications of malnutrition were examined. Multivariable logistic regression assessed the association of binary clinical outcomes of interest with recent weight loss and weight suppression (adjusting for age, admission BMI, gender, and purging behaviors). Odds ratios (OR) and 99% confidence intervals were reported.

Results

Greater recent weight loss increased the odds of developing low prealbumin and reduced hand grip strength. A greater weight suppression was associated with increased likelihood of amenorrhea, reduced systolic blood pressure, nadir hemoglobin, and weekly weight gain upon nutritional rehabilitation. Lower admission BMI was predictive of all the medical outcomes examined, with the exception of bradycardia, and was generally the strongest predictor based on standardized coefficients.

Discussion

Recent weight loss and weight suppression are predictive of some of the physiologic changes of malnutrition, although low BMI is seemingly the greatest predictor for the development of these complications. These findings suggest that some patients with aggressive weight suppression and/or acute weight loss would benefit from medical stabilization, although this needs to be further defined.

Public Significance

In adults, low BMI seems to be a better predictor of medical complications than weight suppression or aggressive recent weight loss. In adults, greater weight suppression is associated with increased likelihood of amenorrhea, reduced systolic blood pressure, nadir hemoglobin, and weight gain upon nutritional rehabilitation.
Research progress of corneal endothelial cell regeneration and replacement
Authors: Li Zongyi , Duan Haoyun , Zhou Qingjun
Published: January 2024

Corneal endothelial cells (CECs) are crucial for the maintenance of corneal transparency and normal visual function. Corneal endothelial dysfunction can lead to corneal edema, opacity, and even blindness. Due to the limited proliferative capacity of human CECs and the global shortage of donor cornea, corneal endothelial regeneration and replacement always represent the most challenge in the basic research and clinical treatment of corneal diseases. Although there is a potential existence of corneal endothelial progenitor cells, the efficiency of Descemet stripping without endothelial keratoplasty remains controversial. In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the field of cultured endothelial cell regeneration and artificial material replacement. Here, we reviewed the current research and clinical progress of corneal endothelial cell regeneration and replacement, including the in vitro cultivation of primary human CECs, in vitro differentiation of stem cell‐derived CECs, tissue‐engineered corneal endothelium, and fabrication of artificial corneal endothelium. We also discussed the remaining questions regarding innovating clinical preventive and therapeutic strategies for corneal endothelial dysfunction.
Difluoroethylation Reactions of Organic Compounds
Authors: Tian Yunfei , Zheng Luping , Guo Dongyu , Fu Weijun , Li Zejiang
Published: January 2024

Given the profound effect of fluorine‐containing groups in improving the chemical, physical, and biological properties of the parent compound, the fluorine‐containing groups were receiving increasing attention in the medicinal, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and material sciences. Unlike well‐developed trifluoromethylation and difluoromethylation reactions, the efficient and mild methods for rapid introduction of CF2Me are still underdeveloped, despite their important applications in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. This concept describes recent progress in difluoroethylation functionalization.
Mendelian randomization study of lipid metabolism characteristics and migraine risk
Authors: Hong Peiwei , Han Lin , Wan Yang
Published: January 2024

Background

The association between serum lipids and migraine is controversial. However, randomized controlled trials have suggested that statins may be efficacious for the prevention of migraine. In this study, we aim to investigate the relationship between lipids metabolism and migraine risk.

Methods

Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), relating to the serum lipid traits and the effect of lipid‐lowering drugs that target APOB, CETP, HMGCR, NPC1L1, and PCSK9, were extracted from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) summary data. The GWAS summary data were obtained from the Global Lipids Genetic Consortium (GLGC), the UK Biobank, and the FinnGen study, respectively. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to evaluate the association between serum lipid traits and lipid‐lowering drugs with migraine risk.

Results

Regarding serum lipids, it was found that SNPs related to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (non‐HDL‐C), total cholesterol (TC), or triglycerides (TG) levels were not associated with migraine, migraine with aura (MA) or migraine without aura (MO). In addition, genotypes of HMGCR related to higher LDL‐C levels were associated with increased risk of migraine (OR = 1.46, p = 0.035) and MA (OR = 2.03, p = 0.008); However, genotypes of PCSK9 related to higher LDL‐C levels were associated with decreased risk of migraine (OR = 0.75, p = 0.001) and MA (OR = 0.69, p = 0.004); And genotypes of APOB related to higher LDL‐C levels were associated with decreased risk of MO (OR = 0.62, p = 0.000).

Conclusions

There is a relationship between lipid metabolism characteristics and migraine risk.

Significance

Based on the genome‐wide association summary data, single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (non‐HDL‐C), total cholesterol (TC), or triglycerides (TG) level were not associated with risk of migraine, migraine with aura (MA) or migraine without aura (MO). However, genotypes of HMGCR related to higher LDL‐C levels have shown an increased risk on migraine and MA. And genotypes of APOB or PCSK9 related to higher LDL‐C levels have shown a decreased risk on MO, or migraine and MA, respectively. These results suggested that there may be a relationship between lipid metabolism characteristics and the risk for migraine development.
Diversity and use of plant collections of the Lagos University Herbarium, Nigeria
Authors: Igbari Aramide Dolapo , Onuminya Temitope Olabisi , Nodza George Isaac , Ogundipe Oluwatoyin Temitayo
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to gain insights into the diversity and use of the collections of the Lagos University Herbarium (LUH), Nigeria. A total of 1509 species representing 188 plant families in 57 plant orders were recorded. This comprises dicotyledons (1260); monocotyledons (217); ferns (29); moss (1); conifers (1); and macro algae (1). About 1007 species of the collection are indigenous while 502 are exotic species. Herbaceous life form is the most abundant, representing 38% of the species recorded. Also, 1380 (91.4%) of the species have a recorded use while 129 (8.6%) had no known use in literature. A total of 1994 uses were recorded and distributed across 8 use categories. Of these, 52.9% are single use, 24.1% are dual use, and 23.0% have multiple uses. Plants used for medicine had the highest frequency (52.6%), followed by materials (13.8%), food plants (10.8%), environmental uses (7.3%), social uses (5.7%), animal feed (5.0%), fuel (3.0%), and poison (1.8%). The Fabaceae family had the highest use record followed by Rubiaceae, Poaceae, Malvaceae, and Euphorbiaceae. The diversity of use of species recorded in this study provides information for biodiversity research, resource planning, and sustainable usage of species.
Elucidating the effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on mung bean rhizobia via in vitro assay: Influence on growth, morphology, and plant growth promoting traits
Authors: Kaur Harleen , Kalia Anu , Manchanda Pooja
Published: January 2024

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are among the most commonly used nanomaterials and are most likely to end up in soil. Therefore, it is pertinent to study the interaction of TiO2 NPs with soil microorganisms. The present in vitro broth study evaluates the impacts of low‐dose treatments (0, 1.0, 5.0, 10.0, 20.0, and 40.0 mg L−1) of TiO2 NPs on cell viability, morphology, and plant growth promoting (PGP) traits of rhizobia isolated from mung bean root nodule. Two types of TiO2 NPs, that is, mixture of anatase and rutile, and anatase alone were used in the study. These TiO2 NPs were supplemented in broth along with a multifunctional isolate (Bradyrhizobium sp.) and two reference cultures. The exposure of TiO2 (anatase+rutile) NPs at low concentrations (less than 20.0 mg L−1) enhanced the cell growth, and total soluble protein content, besides improving the phosphate solubilization, Indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) production, siderophore, and gibberellic acid production. The TiO2 (anatase) NPs enhanced exopolysaccharide (EPS) production by the test rhizobial cultures. The radical scavenging assay was performed to reveal the mode of action of the nano‐TiO2 particles. The study revealed higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by the TiO2 (anatase) NPs as compared with TiO2 (anatase+rutile) NPs. Exposure to TiO2 NPs also altered the morphology of rhizobial cells. The findings suggest that TiO2 NPs could act as promoters of PGP traits of PGP bacteria when applied at appropriate lower doses.
Genetic structure of California's elk: a legacy of extirpations, reintroductions, population expansions, and admixture
Authors: Sacks Benjamin N. , Davis Taylor M. , Batter Thomas J.
Published: January 2024

California, USA, is home to 3 subspecies of North American elk (Cervus canadensis): Roosevelt (C. c. roosevelti), Rocky Mountain (C. c. nelsoni), and tule (C. c. nannodes). Effective management requires a baseline understanding of each subspecies' range, admixture zones, and geographic patterns of genetic diversity. To address these questions, we genotyped 1,271 individual elk from California (n = 1,204) and reference populations of Rocky Mountain and Roosevelt elk from Nevada (n = 32) and Oregon (n = 35), USA. Using 19 polymorphic microsatellite loci, we detected admixture between Roosevelt and Rocky Mountain elk at a contact zone in northern California, and between Roosevelt and tule elk in north‐coastal California and central‐coastal California. We identified a genetically distinct population of Roosevelt elk in northwestern California, likely reflecting the remnant population that survived a large demographic decline from overhunting during the 1800s. Tule elk exhibited lower levels of heterozygosity (0.44 ± 0.03 [SD]) and allelic richness (2.9 ± 0.2) than Rocky Mountain (0.58 ± 0.05, 4.9 ± 0.4, respectively) and Roosevelt (0.50 ± 0.06, 4.4 ± 0.6, respectively) elk. Among tule elk populations, heterozygosity varied, with the lowest heterozygosity (0.23 ± 0.05) corresponding to the oldest enclosed herd used over the past century as a source of translocations. Among tule elk populations, genetic structure revealed several cases of successful and unsuccessful reintroduction or augmentation attempts. Results provide an essential baseline for future monitoring and decisions about harvest management, translocations to preserve genetic diversity, and landscape‐level conservation planning to maintain, enhance, or obstruct connectivity of elk populations. Genome‐wide sequencing and analyses are needed to quantify inbreeding absolutely and assess genetic load and the age of admixture where subspecies currently exchange genes.
Habitat suitability and crop damage risk caused by wild boar in Guizhou Plateau, China
Authors: Yang Guangmei , Peng Caichun , Yang Xiongwei , Guo Qunyi , Su Haijun
Published: January 2024

Crop damage caused by wild boar (Sus scrofa) in many agroforestry regions of the world has affected agricultural development and farmers' livelihoods. Understanding the patterns of wild boar crop damage is important for properly managing these conflicts, and can improve the effectiveness of existing prevention strategies. We collected a comprehensive dataset from Guizhou Province, China, from 2017 to 2020, obtained from motion‐sensitive camera monitoring, transect surveys, interview surveys, and wildlife management administrations. These data include 3,156 records of wild boar activity in natural areas and 576 records of crop damage. We applied a multi‐scale MaxEnt model to map the regional distribution of wild boar habitat suitability and crop damage risk in Guizhou Province and focused on the role of habitat suitability in wild boar crop damage from a regional perspective. Wild boar habitat suitability exhibits a divergent pattern, expanding from the central area of Guizhou Province to the eastern, northern, southern, and northwestern regions, with a gradually increasing trend. Suitability of habitat for wild boar was associated with composite topographic index, mean coldest season temperature, isothermality, Shannon diversity index, edge density, and distance to village roads. Similarly, crop damage caused by wild boars in agroforestry areas is mainly concentrated in the northeast, with the risk increasing from west to east. The risk of damage was associated with temperature seasonality, roughness, distance to village roads, precipitation in the warmest quarter, edge density, and contagion index. Furthermore, in agroforestry areas, there is a positive correlation between wild boar habitat suitability and crop damage risk, with Spearman rank correlation coefficients ranging from 0.5759 to 0.5932. This correlation is not perfectly synchronized on a regional scale. This study indicates that the relationship between habitat suitability and crop damage caused by wild boar in Guizhou Province is primarily influenced by changes in population size rather than the habitat. Consequently, we emphasize the importance of controlling wild boar populations through hunting as a way to effectively reduce the risk of crop damage in agroforestry areas, without neglecting the need for proper habitat management.
Design, Processing, and Challenges of Multicomponent Polymer Composites for Improved Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Properties: A Review
Authors: Li Jixiang , Masghouni Emna , Granger Mathis , Sudre Guillaume , Alcouffe Pierre , Muller Didier , Nguyen Van Son , Bayard Bernard , Serghei Anatoli , Sauviac Bruno , Maazouz Abderrahim , Lamnawar Khalid
Published: January 2024

The colossal development of modern electronic devices has inevitably led to an increase in electromagnetic interference (EMI), which has gradually become the fourth most prevalent type of pollution in the world. It is therefore necessary to seek more effective EMI‐shielding materials to overcome the shortcomings of conventional metal‐based materials, which include high density, a lack of mechanical flexibility, low corrosion resistance and costly processing. Conductive polymer composites (CPCs) have attracted more and more attention due to their superiority in many aspects. However, their performances should be further enhanced for future applications. One polymer with only one type of filler often cannot meet this kind of requirement. In this paper, filled polymer materials for EMI shielding are reviewed in terms of their processing, rheological properties, conductivity, and shielding effectiveness. Moreover, the combination of different ingredients and fillers when fabricating multicomponent composites for EMI shielding is also highlighted. The coordination of various components in composites with different structures, including solid, segregated, layered/sandwiched, and foamed/porous structures, is then discussed.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis: immune response, biomarkers, and therapeutic intervention
Authors: Zhuang Li , Yang Ling , Li Linsheng , Ye Zhaoyang , Gong Wenping
Published: January 2024

Although tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease, the progression of the disease following Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection is closely associated with the host's immune response. In this review, a comprehensive analysis of TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment was conducted from an immunological perspective. First, we delved into the host's immune response mechanisms against MTB infection as well as the immune evasion mechanisms of the bacteria. Addressing the challenges currently faced in TB diagnosis and treatment, we also emphasized the importance of protein, genetic, and immunological biomarkers, aiming to provide new insights for early and personalized diagnosis and treatment of TB. Building upon this foundation, we further discussed intervention strategies involving chemical and immunological treatments for the increasingly critical issue of drug‐resistant TB and other forms of TB. Finally, we summarized TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment challenges and put forward future perspectives. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the immunological aspects of TB and offer new directions toward achieving the WHO's goal of eradicating TB by 2035.
Long‐acting injectable antipsychotics as maintenance therapy for schizophrenia during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A micro‐narrative review
Authors: Oguchi Yoshiyo , Miyake Nobumi , Ando Kumiko
Published: January 2024

The coronavirus disease pandemic has presented healthcare systems with unprecedented challenges globally and substantially impacted the management of chronic diseases such as schizophrenia. This narrative review highlights the usefulness of long‐acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIs) as maintenance therapy for patients with schizophrenia during the pandemic. The analysis of relevant literature and psychiatric survey data revealed diverse trends in LAIs prescription and patient adherence with oral antipsychotics. Although some studies have reported a decrease in LAIs prescriptions owing to pandemic‐related disruptions, others have suggested stable patient adherence with oral antipsychotics. Approximately 70% of Japanese psychiatrists reported an increase in schizophrenia relapse rates in a survey, underscoring the critical role of LAIs in maintaining therapeutic stability. The potential benefits of LAIs with extended dosing intervals have been highlighted, including improving oral medication adherence and reducing the frequency of hospital visits. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the continued need for uninterrupted LAIs therapy in conjunction with community and home‐based care despite the disruptions caused by the coronavirus disease pandemic. Further development of LAIs maintenance therapy strategies considering the ongoing pandemic and potential future public health emergencies are required.
Corruption in Ukraine during the Ukrainian–Russian war: A decalogue of policies to combat it
Authors: Cifuentes‐Faura Javier
Published: January 2024

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has been a major humanitarian catastrophe. The war in Ukraine has also had serious global consequences. During the war, another of Ukraine's major problems, corruption, was also exposed. In response to these cases, the Ukrainian president has tried to crack down on fraud and corruption. Ukraine is a highly corrupt country, as indicated by the Corruption Perceptions Index. This article outlines Ukraine's corruption problem during the war, and the main forms of corruption, analyzes the country's performance in the Corruption Perceptions Index, and presents a 10‐point checklist of measures and policies to combat and end corruption in the short and long term.
Wear‐resistant layers containing graphene derivatives
Authors: Mindivan Ferda , Dere Hilal
Published: January 2024

The effect of carbon filler wt% ratios on the microstructural and tribological properties of the ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (PE)/graphene nanoplatelets (GNP), PE/graphene oxide (GO), and PE/carbon nanotube (CNT) composites and PE/GNP‐GO hybrid composite layers was studied to determine the best tribological performance after the dry wear test. The layers had a semi‐crystalline structure like PE, but the shifts in the peaks showed the presence of interactions between the fillers and PE matrix, according to x‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. FTIR analysis results indicated that GO‐containing layers caused interactions and new bonds. The lowest values for the friction coefficient were found in layers containing GNP and GO, which had a lubricating effect. The friction coefficient decreased by 83.24% in the PE/0.7GO composite layer compared to PE. Wear resistance of the PE/3GNP and PE/1GO layers were the highest compared to PE and other layers. The PE/3GNP and PE/1GO layers improved the wear resistance of PE by 12% and 11%, respectively. Abrasive wear and fatigue wear tracks on the worn surface of the PE/3GNP and PE/1GO composite layer were significantly reduced compared to PE and other layers. This study suggests that layers that will provide the highest molecular interaction with PE and improve its wear resistance will be produced with GO and nano‐sized GNP.

Highlights

The interaction of graphene‐derived fillers with PE and its effect on friction and wear properties were investigated.

GNP and GO are the best filler materials among the graphene derivatives for increasing wear resistance.

High wear resistant of layers achieved at 3 wt% GNP loadings.

Layers containing GO had the lowest friction coefficient values among the other layers.
Cellulose nanocrystals from oil palm trunk biomass as a bio‐reinforcing filler for improved mechanical properties of modified natural rubber composites
Authors: Koeipudsa Niracha , Phinyocheep Pranee
Published: January 2024

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) obtained from biomass are increasingly demanding as a candidate for rubber composite reinforcement due to their sustainability and environmentally friendly characteristics. This work explored CNC extracted from oil palm trunks, an agricultural waste, for its reinforcing efficacy for natural rubber (NR) composite. To achieve good compatibility of the hydrophilic CNC in non‐polar NR, the NR was modified in a simple and green epoxidation condition via its latex stage. The epoxidized natural rubbers (ENR) containing 15% and 25% epoxide content, symbolized as 15E and 25E, respectively, were prepared. The ENR/CNC nanocomposites were fabricated by mixing CNC aqueous suspension and ENR latex, followed by co‐coagulation by methanol. A low amount of CNC (0.5–5 phr) was incorporated into the rubber and it was found that the ENR/CNC nanocomposites showed improvement in mechanical properties compared to the NR/CNC nanocomposite. The 25E/CNC nanocomposite with 1 phr of CNC achieved a 22.6% increase in tensile strength while the 25E/CNC nanocomposite with 2 phr of CNC resulted in a 27.1% increase in tear strength. The enhanced performance of the fully bio‐based rubber nanocomposites is attributed to the CNC–rubber interaction and good CNC dispersion in the ENR matrices, evidenced by the results of SEM and crosslink density.

Highlights

Cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) was successfully obtained from the oil palm trunk.

NR was modified into epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) for increased polarity.

ENR/CNC mixing was done in a simple and environmentally friendly latex process.

Only 2 phr of CNC resulted in a 27.1% increased tear strength of rubber composite.

SEM clearly evidenced improvement of CNC–ENR interaction.
Do college students with higher attachment anxiety or avoidance tend to have lower subjective social status? Evidence from a cross‐sectional and a longitudinal study
Authors: Wang Yangqian , Cheng Gang , Zhou Xianhong , Yang Haili , Fu Niuniu , Ding Fangyuan
Published: January 2024

The present study examined the relationship between adult attachment and subjective social status (SSS) in college students through a cross‐sectional survey (Study 1) and a longitudinal study (Study 2). In Study 1, 1300 college students were recruited via research flyers and online campus advertisements. They completed measures of adult attachment and SSS. The results showed that higher attachment anxiety and avoidance negatively predicted SSS. In Study 2, 958 freshmen students were recruited via the Freshmen Entrance Ceremony and underwent assessment four times (T1, T2, T3, and T4) at monthly intervals. The latent growth model results showed a significant decline in SSS during the first month of campus life, followed by a slow increase over the subsequent 2 months. While attachment avoidance did not predict a decline in SSS, attachment anxiety positively predicted the rate of decline in SSS, which meant that the higher the attachment anxiety was, the slower the rate of decline in SSS. Both studies indicated that both dimensions of attachment influence freshmen's SSS and that only attachment anxiety plays a role in the dynamics of SSS.