bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability and Fibrillation of Lysozyme in the Mixtures of Ionic Liquids with Varying Hydrophobicity
Authors: Kushwaha Pratibha , Hatwar Abhinav , Prabhu N. Prakash
Published: December 2024

Combinatorial effects of small molecules provide newer avenues to improve protein stability. The combined effect of two different classes of ILs on the stability and fibrillation propensity of lysozyme (Lyz) was investigated. Imidazolium‐ILs (an aromatic moiety) with varying alkyl chains, methyl (MIC), butyl (BMIC) and hexyl (HMIC), and pyrrolidinium‐IL (alicyclic moiety) with butyl substitution (BPyroBr) were chosen. The fibrillation was delayed by the addition of any of the IL. While added as a mixture with varying molar ratios, the presence of HMIC with MIC or BMIC at the ratio of 2:1 increased the fibrillation time synergistically by increasing lag time and reducing elongation rate. The protein stability was significantly reduced in these conditions compared to lower molar ratios of HMIC with MIC or BMIC. Molecular dynamics simulation studies indicated that upon adding Im‐ILs water molecules were reduced around Lyz, whereas BPyroBr slightly increased the water around Lyz. Preferential interaction studies suggest that the preferential binding of HMIC with the protein was the most favored and it synergistically facilitated the preferential binding of MIC. Though BMIC was preferentially binding to the protein, it disfavoured the interaction of MIC. BMIC and BPyroBr had a competitive binding on the surface of Lyz. The results suggested that the mixture of ILs containing the longer alkyl chain destabilizes the protein and delays the fibril formation to a larger extent than the shorter alkyl chain ILs. Further, the effect of aromatic ILs could be greater than alicyclic ILs having the same alkyl chain length.
Density Dependence in Large Herbivores Inhabiting an Insular Nature Reserve
Authors: Louw Cornelius J. , Parrini Francesca , Marshal Jason P.
Published: December 2024

While studies often focus on density‐dependent responses of ungulate populations to resource limitations at large spatial scales, the dynamics at smaller scales remain relatively unexplored. To address this gap, we investigated the temporal dynamics of ungulate abundance in a small dystrophic grassland ecosystem over 20 years, with minimal management interventions. We used annual counts and herd composition data to explore density‐dependent responses at the population level and attempt to link such responses to demographic mechanisms. Counts were corrected using a state‐space modeling approach. Populations of most species increased from low densities to approximate equilibrium densities. Our findings reveal evidence of density‐dependent responses in population growth that shaped the population abundance dynamics. Additionally, juvenile‐to‐adult ratios exhibited patterns of density‐dependent reductions in recruitment. This study suggests grassland ecosystems with moderate annual rainfall are regulated primarily by bottom‐up processes.
Interactions Between Climate and Species Drive Future Forest Carbon and Water Balances
Authors: McQuillan Katie A. , Oishi A. Christopher , Robbins Zachary J. , Scheller Robert , Martin Katherine L.
Published: December 2024

Global change is altering forest carbon and water balances; however, the extent to which tree species shape ecosystem‐scale responses to climate, particularly in biodiverse forests, remains unclear. To address this, we simulated the effects of an envelope of future climate conditions on watershed carbon and water balances and quantified the contributions of tree species based on their xylem anatomy. We accomplished this by incorporating species‐level transpiration calculations into a landscape‐scale ecosystem process model. Our revised model linked the effects of forest succession, species composition, and climate change on water and carbon. Calibration of forest water fluxes using sap flux measurements and catchment water balances captured variability in species transpiration and interannual ET in biodiverse, humid temperate forest catchments in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, USA. Across wet and dry future climate projections, ET increased, and streamflow and net carbon uptake decreased, particularly under a scenario of increasing drought. Despite accounting for just 30% of current biomass, diffuse‐porous tree species were the main driver of carbon and water flux responses now and in the future, thus intensifying the increase in ET and decline in streamflow. As diffuse‐porous biomass continues to increase, these forests will be increasingly sensitive to drought, amplifying losses of carbon sequestration and freshwater delivery.
Evaluation of leg symmetry in muscle oxygen saturation during submaximal to maximal cycling exercise
Authors: Sendra‐Pérez Carlos , Priego‐Quesada Jose I. , Murias Juan M. , Carpes Felipe P. , Salvador‐Palmer Rosario , Encarnación‐Martínez Alberto
Published: December 2024

It is unclear whether physiological responses, such as muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2), can be considered symmetrical during cycling. This knowledge has important practical implications for both training and performance assessment. The aim of this study was to determine whether oxygenation profiles in the three active muscles of both legs were symmetrical during cycling at different intensities. Twenty‐six trained cyclists and triathletes completed a graded exercise test (GXT) and an 8‐min functional threshold power estimation test (8MTT) on a cycle ergometer over two nonconsecutive days. SmO2 was bilaterally assessed using NIRS technology in the vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius medialis, and tibialis anterior. Symmetry was compared between legs in both tests, and reliability and agreement between the measurements were quantified. The main results were that SmO2 in the three muscles assessed did not differ between legs during the GXT and 8MTT (p > 0.05). Reliability of the measures was poor to good in the vastus lateralis (ICC = 0.83–0.37), moderate to excellent in the tibialis anterior (ICC = 0.92–0.73), and poor to good for the gastrocnemius medialis (ICC = 0.80–0.24). Overall, the group variability in SmO2 showed a narrower distribution at lower intensities, with data dispersion increasing at higher intensities. In conclusion, the SmO2 was similar and showed symmetrical responses in both the preferred and nonpreferred limb in different muscles assessed during cycling at different intensities within a range of 10%–20%. Although individual physiological differences that might be relevant in some clinical/performance settings should not be disregarded, these findings indicate that measuring a single lower limb provides an accurate approximation of the responses in both lower limbs.
Genetic Variants and Haplotype Structures in the CASC Gene Family to Predict Cancer Risk: A Bioinformatics Study
Authors: Gholami Morteza , Asouri Mohsen , Ahmadi Ali Asghar
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

The cancer susceptibility (CASC) gene family of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) plays an important role in cancer. The aim of this study was to identify genetic variants and haplotype structures of CASC genes associated with cancer risk.

Methods

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) significant variants (p ≤ 5 × 10−8) on CASC family genes were identified from the GWAS Catalog‐EMBL‐EBI, and then cancer‐associated variants on CASC genes were extracted. These variants were functionally analyzed, including lncRNA:miRNA binding sites, Regulomedb scores, and eQTL. The 1000 Genome Project genotyping data Phase III were used to identify haplotypic blocks. Finally, the genes associated with them were examined for expression and gene‐gene correlation analyses using OncoDB.

Results

There were six haplotypic blocks in four genes. The GC, TA, and AGAC haplotypes are located in the CASC8 gene and increase the risk of prostate cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer, respectively. The CA haplotype in the CASC15 gene increases the risk of neuroblastoma, AA haplotype in the CASC16 gene increases the risk of breast cancer, and ACGATG haplotype in the CASC17 gene increases the risk of prostate cancer (p ≤ 5 × 10−8). Their genes are interrelated and their expression is increased in these cancers. The rs2294214 is associated with skin cancer and has positive effects on five CASC15:miRNA binding sites. The rs3803662 is located in CASC16:miRNA binding sites, which has positive effects on hsa‐miR‐4475 and hsa‐miR‐7845‐5p and negative effects on hsa‐miR‐4524a‐3p and hsa‐miR‐4524b‐3p.

Conclusion

These haplotypic structures and lncRNA:miRNA:SNP interactions on CASC family lncRNAs reveal novel genetic associations between CASC genes and various cancers.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Stroke Among Hypertensive Patients in Selected Hospitals, Mogadishu: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Osman Walid Abdulkadir , Ahmed Hassan Muse , Abdullahi Maryan Mukhtar , Kuule Amal Adam , Hassan Qaali Barre
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally, with hypertension identified as the main risk factor. Therefore, the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of hypertensive patients are crucial for the early recognition and timely intervention needed to prevent strokes and minimize their long‐term complications. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding stroke among hypertensive patients.

Methods

The study used a cross‐sectional design and enrolled 289 hypertensive patients. A consecutive sampling technique was employed to select the participants. Data were collected through an interviewer‐administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software (version 26). A significance level of 0.05 was established for the study.

Results

70.6% of participants identified stroke as an interruption in blood flow to the brain. The majority of respondents (94.5%) identified hypertension and diabetes as risk factors for stroke. Sudden loss of vision or double vision is the most prominent indicator of stroke (75.8%). In terms of stroke complications, chronic headaches (89.3%) were widely recognized. Only 41.9% of the patients checked their blood pressure, and 37% took their medications regularly. The knowledge level significantly differed only with sex. However, significant differences were observed in the mean scores for attitudes based on age, education, and income, and in the practice mean score based on sex, education, employment status, and income. A weak positive correlation was found between patients' knowledge and attitude, but no significant correlation between knowledge and practice, or attitude and practice.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that respondents had good knowledge about stroke but struggled to convert it into a positive attitude and practice. These findings suggest the need for targeted interventions to improve attitudes and practices towards stroke prevention.
Cesarean section with operation on placental support as an adapted EXIT procedure for fetal thyroid goiter: A case report and literature review
Authors: Diawtipsukon Sanpon , Moradokkasem Woraluk , Chansriniyom Nareenun , Nuntnarumit Pracha
Published: December 2024

The ex‐utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure is a specialized delivery strategy that extends utero–placental–fetal circulation to convert a potential neonatal emergency condition into a condition that is compatible with postnatal life. Cesarean section with operation on placental support is an EXIT technique that requires a relatively short duration of placental support and few skilled medical personnel and specialized instruments; it can successfully treat selected fetal indications. In the present study, we report a case of fetal thyroid goiter as an example of a fetal anomaly requiring the procedure. We then review all cases published in the medical literature that were similar to our procedure (15 cases including our new case). Twelve (80%) cases of fetal anomalies and three prophylactic cases of extremely low birth weight were delivered using a procedure adapted from the standard EXIT procedure. All 12 cases of fetal anomalies were treated by airway intervention. In 12 of the 15 cases (80%), direct laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation were attempted; intubation was successful in seven of these 12 cases (58%). There was only one case of postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine incisional bleeding, with a consequence of delayed hysterotomy closure. In summary, cesarean section with operation on placental support is a promising alternative delivery technique for neonates with airway obstructive lesions, especially in resource‐limited settings.
Interventions for recurrent embryo implantation failure: An umbrella review
Authors: Almohammadi Abdulla , Choucair Fadi , Khan Khalid S. , Bueno‐Cavanillas Aurora , Cano‐Ibáñez Naomi
Published: December 2024

Background

Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) has a multifactorial etiology. An umbrella review was undertaken to evaluate the multiple proposed interventions.

Objectives

To summarize and assess the strength of evidence of interventions for RIF from published systematic reviews (SR) of randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

Search Strategy

After prospective registration (PROSPERO CRD42023414255), a systematic search was conducted in the Cochrane Library, Scopus and Medline from inception until March 2024.

Selection Criteria

SRs of RCTs, with or without meta‐analyses (MA), were included if they reported clinical pregnancy rates (CPR) or live birth rates (LBR).

Data Collection and Analysis

The methodological quality of the included SRs was appraised independently in duplicate using the AMSTAR 2 tool. For each intervention, the MAs of RCTs with statistically significant improvements were counted as a percentage of the total assessing the strength of evidence using the GRADE system.

Main Results

A total of 47 SRs were included: 32 reviews covered immunomodulatory interventions, 10 (68 RCTs) covered uterine and endometrial interventions, one covered antibiotics, and four (69 RCTs) addressed mixed approaches, including laboratory interventions. AMSTAR 2 appraised 41 (88%) SRs as critically low or low, and 6 (12%) as moderate or high in quality. The SRs often had a level of overlap of RCTs (median 33.3%), inconsistent definitions of RIF, and varied comparisons for the interventions. Considering the significant meta‐analytic evidence of high‐moderate GRADE strength: Granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) showed improvement in CPR in 9/13 (69.2%) MAs and LBR in 1/7 (14%); intralipid infusion showed improvement in CPR in 4/6 (57.14%) MAs and LBR in 3/4 (75%); peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) showed improvement in CPR in 4/8 (50%) MAs and LBR 3/5 (60%); platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) intervention showed improvement in CPR in 6/10 (60%) MAs and LBR in 1/5 (20%); human chorionic gonadotropins showed improvement in CPR in 3/3 (100%) MAs; growth hormone showed improvement in CPR in 1/1 (100%) MA; low molecular weight heparin showed improvement in CPR in 1/1 (100%) MAs and LBR in 1/2 (50%); hysteroscopy showed improvement in CPR in 1/2 (50%) MAs; and, intentional endometrial injury showed improvement in CPR in 3/4 (75%) MAs and LBR in 2/3 (66.66%).

Conclusions

Evidence syntheses of RCTs evaluating interventions for RIF suggest a consistent direction, with high to moderate strength, indicating that immunomodulatory treatments, including G‐CSF, PBMC, PRP, intralipid infusion, and intentional endometrial injury are likely to be effective. However, this conclusion should be interpreted with caution due to the generally low methodological quality of the included studies and the clinical heterogeneity observed in most SRs.
Serum lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 activity in Chinese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Feng Jie , Wang Kun , Gao Yanhong
Published: December 2024

Background

Few studies have explored the association between lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 (Lp‐PLA2) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, most of these studies have investigated only European patient populations and have come to contradictory conclusions. Furthermore, few studies have been conducted on Chinese patient groups. This study aimed to explore the association between serum Lp‐PLA2 activity and SLE in a Chinese patient group.

Methods

Serum Lp‐PLA2 activity was detected in 154 SLE patients and 55 age‐, sex‐, and body mass index‐matched healthy controls. Information concerning the anthropometric data, clinical manifestations, SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI‐2K), complement C3 (C3), and complement C4 (C4) erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and autoantibodies were evaluated.

Results

The average level of serum Lp‐PLA2 activity was 221 ± 56 U/L in SLE patients compared with 160 ± 37 U/L in healthy controls (p < 0.001). SLE patients that presented with nephritis, anemia, and fibrinolytic abnormality had higher serum Lp‐PLA2 activity than SLE patients who did not present with these symptoms (p < 0.05), and the levels of serum Lp‐PLA2 activity correlated with the severity of the clinical manifestations (p < 0.001). There was no correlation between serum Lp‐PLA2 activity and serum autoantibodies levels (p > 0.05). According to Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, ESR, SLEDAI‐2K, C3, and C4 significantly correlated with serum Lp‐PLA2 activity (p < 0.001). According to binary logistic regression, Lp‐PLA2 activity was independently associated with active SLE in patients (OR 1.049; 95% CI: 1.025–1.073, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Serum Lp‐PLA2 activity is associated with some clinical manifestations (nephritis, anemia, and fibrinolytic abnormality) in SLE patients, and its activity may contribute to the development of SLE disease. These findings provide new insight into the pathogenesis of SLE.
Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Time‐Dependent DFT (TDDFT) Studies of Porphyrin Adsorption on Graphene: Insights on the Effect of Substituents and Central Metal on Adsorption Energies
Authors: Gara Rayene , Morales‐García Ángel , Arfaoui Youssef , Illas Francesc
Published: December 2024

Combining metalloporphyrins (MPr) and graphene constitutes key composites in the development of photovoltaic devices. Here, we focus on the analysis of the properties of metalloporphyrins/graphene systems by means of the density functional theory (DFT) and its time‐dependent (TDDFT) version, focusing on the ground and singlet excited states. Our benchmark analysis concludes that ωB97XD density functional combined with 6‐31G(d)/Def2‐TZVP basis set is a better‐suited method for simulating accurate MPr adsorption on graphene. It is shown that a reduced atomic model where the external organic shell of the structure is removed provides the same resulting optoelectronic properties of the original model, constituting an important speed‐up of the calculations when studying porphyrins‐derived molecules. We observe that ZnPr provides the highest light harvesting efficiency (LHE) value. In addition, we find out that the adsorption energy increases monotonically with the size of the graphene flake and the highest stability involves the use of graphene comprising above 500 atoms. Besides, CdPr and HgPr keep their properties as photosensitizers when they are bonded to graphene and show promising values in terms of LHE emerging as suitable solar energy harvesters.
Single‐Walled ZnSe Nanotubes for High‐Performance Photodetectors: A Computational Prediction
Authors: Meng Shuang , Li Wenhui , Zhou Jia
Published: December 2024

Low‐dimensional nanomaterials show great potential for developing semiconducting materials due to their distinct electronic, optical, and mechanical properties. In this study, we constructed various one‐dimensional ZnSe nanotubes and investigated their transport and photoresponse properties by using the density functional theory (DFT) and non‐equilibrium Green's function (NEGF) method. Under bias regulation, one‐dimensional tetragonal ZnSe nanotube curled along the diagonal can reach a current of 111.3 μA at a bias of 4.0 eV. It is worth noting that for all considered photon energies, the photocurrent exhibits a cosine dependence on the polarization angle, which is consistent with the photogalvanic effect. The results show that our constructed ZnSe nanotubes have potential for applications in electronic and optoelectronic devices.
Infrared Spectroscopy of Ethanethiol Monomers and Dimers at MP2 Level: Characterizing the Dimer Formation and Hydrogen Bond
Authors: Brito Airan F. S. , Aquino Adelia J. A. , dos Santos Politi José Roberto , Martins João B. L.
Published: December 2024

Ethanethiol, also known as ethyl mercaptan, is an organosulfur compound that appears as a colorless liquid with a distinctive odor. It has been detected in the interstellar medium, and its self‐association has been the subject of a few known experimental studies, where the SH vibrational mode was used. However, unlike the analogous ethanol dimer, the ethanethiol dimer has not been thoroughly explored theoretically. In this study, ethanethiol and dimers were investigated using the MP2 method with various basis sets to determine the properties and stability of these structures. For the monomer, both trans and gauche structures were computed, with the gauche conformer being more stable, consistent with the available data in the literature. Local mode decomposition analysis of monomers showed that the CH2 rocking mode, associated with the CSH bending, is present only for the gauche isomer aligning with the experimental assignments. Furthermore, eight stable dimer configurations were identified and categorized into three groups: trans–trans, gauche–gauche, and trans–gauche isomers. Among these, the trans–gauche isomer was found to be the most stable. Dispersion is the dominant term for the ethanethiol dimer.
Ascorbic acid supplementation in adolescent rats ameliorates anxiety‐like and depressive‐like manifestations of nicotine‐ethanol abstinence: Role of oxidative stress, inflammatory, and serotonergic mechanisms
Authors: Najafzadeh Alireza , Mahdizadeh Mobina , Kakhki Samaneh , Rahimi Ali , Ahmadi‐Soleimani S. Mohammad , Beheshti Farimah
Published: December 2024

Background

The present study aims to assess the therapeutic potential of vitamin C (Vit C) on anxiety‐ and depressive‐like behavior induced by abstinence from chronic nicotine‐ethanol co‐exposure in adolescent male rats.

Materials and methods

Adolescent male rats were divided into seven experimental groups with ten rats as follows: 1) vehicle, 2) Nicotine (Nic)‐Ethanol (Eth): received Nic (2 mg/kg) and Eth (20%) in drinking water from 21 to 42 days of age, 3–5) Nic‐Eth‐Vit C 100/200/400: received Nic and Eth from 21 to 42 days of age and received Vit C 100/200/400 mg/kg from 43 to 63 days of age, 6) Nic‐Eth‐Bupropion (Bup)‐ Naloxone (Nal): received Nic and Eth from 21 to 42 days of age and received Bup and Nal from 43 to 63 days of age, and 7) Vit C 400 mg/kg: received Vit C 400 mg/kg from 43 to 63 days of age. Behavioral assessments were done by elevated plus maze (EPM), forced swimming test (FST), marble burring test (MBT), and open field tests (OFT). Furthermore, specific biochemical variables associated with oxidative, inflammatory, and serotonergic profiles were quantified.

Results

According to the obtained results, Nic and Eth induced anxiety and depression in treated rats. We showed that two higher doses of Vit C increases the active struggling time in FST and decreases both the time spent in the peripheral zone of OFT and the time spent in the closed arms of EPM. In addition, animals treated by Vit C buried less number of marbles in MBT compared to their control counterparts. Nic and Eth induced oxidative stress and inflammation in cortical tissues of treated rats. Biochemical parameters were improved in the Nic‐Eth group receiving Vit C 200/400 mg/kg and Bup‐Nal through establishing a balance between oxidant/anti‐oxidant and inflammatory/anti‐inflammatory mediators. In addition, serotonin level was increased, while Monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity was notably decreased.

Conclusion

The present findings support the beneficial effect of Vit C on anxiety‐ and depressive‐like behavior induced by Nic‐Eth withdrawal through various mechanisms such as the promotion of antioxidant defense, suppression of inflammatory mediators, and enhancement of serotoninergic function.
Enhancing FeFET Structures for Non‐Volatile On‐Chip Memories: Design and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Chaudhary Tarun , Raj Balwinder
Published: December 2024

FeFET architectures for non‐volatile on‐chip memory are designed and compared in this investigation study. Because of its inherent non‐volatile properties and low power requirements, FeFETs are attracting a lot of interest as prospective candidates for future memory technology. The aim of this paper is to investigate several FeFET designs and assess how well they function in terms of important factors including durability, retention, speed, and endurance. Using device simulations and experimental data, a number of FeFET architectures, such as MFS, MFIS, MFMIS, and MF‐ABO3, are analyzed and contrasted. Comparative study gives light on the advantages and disadvantages of various FeFET architectures; improving our comprehension of how well‐suited they are for non‐volatile on‐chip memory. This work will contribute to the improvement of FeFET devices for upcoming integrated circuits and progress the development of sophisticated FeFET‐based memory techniques.
The Study of Chemical Constituents and Metabolite Profiles of Chitong Xiaoyanling Granules in Normal and Periodontitis Model Rats Based on Ultra‐High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Quadrupole Time‐of‐Flight‐Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jieru , Zhang Zijian , Yang Menghua , Zhang Wanwan , Wang Weiran , Wang Jiajie , Huang Lingling , Wang Chunying
Published: December 2024

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation of the periodontal support tissues. The typical symptoms of periodontitis are inflammation and alveolar bone resorption. Chitong Xiaoyanling Granules (CXG) is composed of 10 Chinese herbs, which have the efficacy of dispersing wind, clearing heat, cooling blood, and relieving pain. CXG is clinically used for the treatment of periodontitis and other diseases, with remarkable efficacy and broad application prospects. However, due to the lack of systematic research on its chemical constituents and metabolites, it is of great significance to characterize the various chemical components and metabolites of CXG. In this study, ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight‐tandem mass spectrometry analysis was used to identify the chemical constituents and metabolites of CXG, and the differences in metabolite profiles between normal and model rats were compared. A total of 147 compounds were identified in CXG, including 53 flavonoids, 28 terpenoids, seven chromones, eight coumarins, eight organic acids, 12 phenols, 10 alcohols, nine sugars, and 12 others. In normal and model rats, 191 and 179 CXG‐related xenobiotics were detected respectively. In conclusion, a rapid and accurate identification method was used to identify the chemical components and metabolites of CXG, which laid a foundation for the study of the quality control and pharmacological mechanisms of CXG.
Ultrasound Diagnosis of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement and Cystocele in Standing and Supine Positions in the Postpartum Period
Authors: Coppola Carmela , Fochesato Cecilia , Esposito Giovanna , Ferrazzi Enrico , Orsi Michele
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the anteroposterior length of levator ani hiatus, as well as the presence and the degree of cystocele in women at risk of pelvic floor dysfunction during the postpartum period by transperineal ultrasound performed in the standing and supine positions.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study including women who delivered vaginally, at risk of pelvic floor dysfunction. After 8–12 weeks postpartum, each woman underwent pelvic floor ultrasound in both standing and supine positions during the Valsalva maneuver to measure the length of hiatal anteroposterior diameter and the cystocele. Demographic and clinical data on pregnancy and delivery were recorded. Women were interviewed to collect subjective symptoms of urinary stress incontinence.

Results

The study involved 100 women at risk of pelvic floor dysfunction following a vaginal delivery. The proportion of women with an anteroposterior hiatal diameter ≥60 mm was significantly higher when measured standing than when measured supine (64.0 vs 47.0%, P = .016). Similarly, the frequency of cystocele detected in the standing position was higher than in the supine position (48.0 vs 17.0%, P < .001). The non‐agreement between the examinations performed in these two positions was proved by the value of Cohen's Kappa (0.36, 95% CI: 0.22–0.51). Also, in the subgroup of asymptomatic women, more cases of cystocele were detected in the standing position (29 cases, 39.2%) than in the supine position (12 cases, 16.2%) (P = .003).

Conclusions

Our study shows that transperineal pelvic floor ultrasound in the postpartum period performed in the standing position, compared with the supine position, achieved a higher detection rate of cystocele and enlarged anteroposterior hiatal diameter in women at risk of pelvic floor dysfunction. These findings should be considered when evaluating the criteria to select candidates for pelvic floor rehabilitation.
Semi‐supervised medical image segmentation network based on mutual learning
Authors: Sun Junmei , Wang Tianyang , Wang Meixi , Li Xiumei , Xu Yingying
Published: December 2024

Background

Semi‐supervised learning provides an effective means to address the challenge of insufficient labeled data in medical image segmentation tasks. However, when a semi‐supervised segmentation model is overfitted and exhibits cognitive bias, its performance will deteriorate. Errors stemming from cognitive bias can quickly amplify and become difficult to correct during the training process of neural networks, resulting in the continuous accumulation of erroneous knowledge.

Purpose

To address the issue of error accumulation, a novel learning strategy is required to enhance the accuracy of medical image segmentation.

Methods

This paper proposes a semi‐supervised medical image segmentation network based on mutual learning (MLNet) to alleviate the issue of continuous accumulation of erroneous knowledge. The MLNet adopts a teacher‐student network as the backbone framework, training student and teacher networks on labeled data and mutually updating network parameter weights, enabling the two models to learn from each other. Additionally, an image partial exchange algorithm (IPE) as an appropriate perturbation addition method is proposed to reduce the introduction of erroneous information and the disruption to the contextual information of the image.

Results

In the 10% labeled experiment on the ACDC dataset, our Dice coefficient reached 89.48%, a 9.28% improvement over the baseline model. In the 10% labeled experiment on the BraTS2019 dataset, the proposed method still performs exceptionally well, achieving 84.56%, surpassing other comparative methods.

Conclusions

Compared with other methods, experimental results demonstrate that our approach achieves optimal performance across all metrics, proving its effectiveness and reliability.
Efficacy and safety of lemborexant in subjects with insomnia disorder receiving medications for depression or anxiety symptoms
Authors: Krystal Andrew , Blier Pierre , Culpepper Larry , Nierenberg Andrew A. , Takaesu Yoshikazu , Kubota Naoki , Moline Margaret , Malhotra Manoj , Pinner Kate , Yardley Jane
Published: December 2024

Aim

Individuals with insomnia frequently have comorbid depression or anxiety. This study sought to provide a preliminary indication of the effects of lemborexant (LEM) in subjects treated for mild depression/anxiety symptoms.

Methods

E2006‐G000‐303 (NCT02952820; EudraCT 2015‐001463‐39; SUNRISE‐2) was a 12‐month, phase 3, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind study where subjects with insomnia disorder were randomized (1:1:1) to placebo, LEM 5 mg (LEM5), or LEM 10 mg (LEM10) for 6 months. During the second 6 months (not reported), placebo‐treated subjects were re‐randomized to LEM5 or LEM10. In this post hoc analysis, changes from baseline (CFB) in subject‐reported (subjective) sleep onset latency (sSOL), sleep efficiency (sSE), wake after sleep onset (sWASO), total sleep time (sTST), Fatigue Severity Scale, and Insomnia Severity Index were evaluated in subjects treated with medications for symptoms of depression/anxiety (subpopulation).

Results

Of 949 randomized subjects, 61 treated with medications for symptoms of depression/anxiety were included. In the subpopulation, CFB comparing LEM with placebo were generally smaller than the overall population due to a larger placebo response in the subpopulation. However, the magnitudes of CFB within the active treatment groups for sSOL, sWASO, sTST, and sSE were similar between the subpopulation and the overall population. No new safety signals were observed in the subpopulation.

Conclusion

LEM treatment benefited subjects with insomnia treated with medications for depression/anxiety symptoms, with no new safety signals. A greater placebo response in the subpopulation than in the overall population decreased the drug versus placebo effect size for LEM, as has been reported for other insomnia medications.
ChatGPT for natural sciences course design: Insights from a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis
Authors: Kumar Jeya Amantha , Zhuang Min , Thomas Stephen
Published: December 2024

Chat Generative Pre‐Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) has emerged as a powerful artificial intelligence (AI) tool with an aptitude to transform course design in higher education significantly. While ChatGPT's applications in education are substantially growing, its role in natural sciences, particularly in course planning and content generation among educators, remains underexplored. Therefore, this study addresses this gap by examining the initial perspectives of a cohort of five instructors (N = 5) who participated in a 5‐day workshop introducing ChatGPT 4.0 for course development. Data collected from daily virtual group reflections and end‐of‐workshop open‐ended surveys were triangulated and analyzed using the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats framework. The findings highlighted ChatGPT's strengths in enhancing course design efficiency, aligning content with faculty competencies, and facilitating professional development. However, they also identified key weaknesses, such as the risk of fabrication and the steep learning curve associated with mastering ChatGPT for course design. Additionally, opportunities to improve content quality that met the demands of 21st‐century teaching and learning while supporting diversity and inclusivity in educational practices were also observed. Conversely, concerns regarding mental fatigue, over‐reliance, and AI‐generated content reliability were also expressed, underscoring the importance of skilled prompting and critical engagement with the generated content. Hence, it emphasizes the importance of AI literacy training in supporting the strategic integration of AI into traditional teaching methods while fostering continuous professional development for educators.
LXR regulation of adipose tissue inflammation during obesity is associated with dysregulated macrophage function
Authors: da Silva Pereira Jessica Aparecida , de Souza Gerson Profeta , Virgilio‐da‐Silva João V. , Prodonoff Juliana S. , de Castro Gisele , Pimentel Leonardo F. , Mousovich‐Neto Felippe , Davanzo Gustavo G. , Aguiar Cristhiane F. , Breda Cristiane N. S. , Guereschi Marcia G. , Araújo Ronaldo C. , Mori Marcelo A. , Câmara Niels O. S. , Souza Diorge P. , Basso Alexandre S. , Moraes‐Vieira Pedro M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Liver X receptors (LXRs) play essential roles in cholesterol homeostasis and immune response. In obesity, elevated cholesterol levels trigger proinflammatory responses; however, the specific contributions of LXRs to adipose tissue (AT) macrophage (ATM) phenotype and metabolic programming are not fully understood. In this study, we determine the role of LXR isoforms in diet‐induced obesity AT inflammation and insulin resistance.

Methods

For in vivo studies, to evaluate the effects of LXR activation on AT inflammation, obese and insulin‐resistant wild‐type mice were treated with 10 mg/kg of the LXR modulator naringenin (NAR) for 4 weeks, and systemic insulin sensitivity and AT inflammation were assessed. To evaluate the effects of LXR deficiency on AT inflammation, we used LXRα, LXRβ, and LXRαβ knockout (KO) mice. For in vitro studies, to assess the role of LXRs specifically in macrophages, bone marrow‐derived macrophages from wild‐type, LXRαKO, LXRβKO, and LXRαβKO mice were treated with 0.5μM NAR 1 h prior to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation (100 ng/mL), and the effects on macrophage function and metabolism were evaluated 24 h after LPS stimulation.

Results

We found that LXR deletion intensifies AT inflammation in an LXRβ‐dependent manner. LXR deficiency in immune cells exacerbates obesity‐induced AT inflammation, increasing the numbers of CD11c+, TNF‐α+, and IL‐1β+ ATMs. We also identified NAR as a novel LXR agonist in macrophages that reduces proinflammatory cytokine secretion by mitigating glycolysis and mitochondrial dysfunction in LPS ‐ and LPS + IFNγ‐activated macrophages. Furthermore, NAR‐treated obese mice display reduced AT inflammation, characterized by decreased CD11c+, IL‐1β+, and TNF‐α+ ATM numbers and monocyte infiltration compared with vehicle‐treated obese mice.

Conclusions

Our study highlights distinct roles for each LXR isoform in AT inflammation regulation, with LXRβ being crucial for maintaining the anti‐ and proinflammatory balance in ATMs. Thus, LXRβ holds therapeutic potential as a target to treat AT inflammation and insulin resistance.
Food insecurity and weight‐loss efforts among a nationally representative sample of US adults with higher weight
Authors: Herb Neff Kirstie M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of food insecurity among a nationally representative sample of US adults who were attempting weight loss, as well as the associations of food insecurity with weight‐loss strategies.

Methods

This study included adults with BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m2 who were intentionally trying to lose weight within the past year from the 2017 to March 2020 data cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study. Participants were categorized as either food insecure or food secure (US Food Security Survey Module), and their use of weight‐loss strategies was compared using unadjusted logistic regression models and models adjusted for sociodemographics.

Results

Nearly one‐quarter (22.96%, n = 582) of participants were food insecure. In unadjusted models, participants with food insecurity were more likely to use unhealthy weight‐loss methods (e.g., skipping meals, taking laxatives or vomiting) and less likely to use healthy methods (e.g., exercising, joining a weight‐loss program; p < 0.05). In adjusted models, participants with food insecurity were less likely to join a weight‐loss program and eat less sugar, candy, and sweets.

Conclusions

Food insecurity is common among US adults with higher weight who are trying to lose weight, and individuals with food insecurity are less likely to use healthy weight‐loss strategies.
An Investigation Into the Relationship Between the Performance and Tactility of UV‐Cured Elastic Soft‐Feel Coatings Based on Different Photo‐Initiator
Authors: Tan Zenghui , Tan Xuehui , Xu Yajun , Wei Wei , Li Xiaojie , Liu Jingcheng
Published: December 2024

In this work, polyurethane acrylate (PUA) was successfully synthesized using polypropylene carbonate diol (PPC2000), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) as raw materials. Then, a series of UV‐curable elastic soft‐feel coatings based on different photo‐initiators were successfully prepared. The double‐bond conversion rate, thermal stability, storage modulus, roughness, contact angle, and other properties of the coatings were tested. The results indicated that the UV‐curable elastic soft‐feel coatings achieved a high double‐bond conversion rate and demonstrated good adhesion, chemical resistance, wear resistance, and thermal stability. Moreover, it was found that the coatings with low storage modulus, low roughness, and low surface energy displayed excellent tactile feel.
Plasma–Liquid Interaction for Agriculture—A Focused Review
Authors: Puač N. , Škoro N.
Published: December 2024

In this review, we give an overview of the applications of plasma activated water (PAW) and its chemistry in the field of agriculture. This article concentrates on the chemistry of long‐lived reactive species and their roles in plant cell mechanisms. The chemical reactions important for the creation of nitrate, nitrite, and hydrogen peroxide inside water during the production of PAW and their chemical paths inside the plant cells are discussed. We describe the use of different types of discharges for PAW production and present the results of PAW application to seeds and plants. We address the decontamination of agricultural chemicals in water along with the scarcely explored topic of water remediation. The major challenges and future possibilities for PAW in agriculture are also discussed.
Impact of Inhomogeneous Magnetic Fields on Polymer Deposition in Low‐Pressure Capacitively Coupled Ar/C4F8 Plasma
Authors: Kim Jihoon , Han Jonggu , Park Woojin , Park Sang Jun , Baek Song Yi , Yoo Byeongsun , Choi Chulhwan , Moon Se Youn
Published: December 2024

Magnetized plasmas are widely utilized in semiconductor fabrication due to their high processing efficiency. However, comprehensive studies involved in thin film formation—particularly the influence of magnetic fields on elemental reactions—remain limited. Additionally, using CxFy gases for plasma processing presents challenges in understanding the behavior of magnetized plasma. Thus, the effects of inhomogeneous magnetic fields on polymer deposition in low‐pressure, magnetized Ar/C4F8 plasma were investigated through spatially resolved diagnostics. Introducing inhomogeneous magnetic fields led to notable localized changes, increasing ion, CF2, and F densities by factors of 2.29, 1.44, and 1.71 times, respectively. These variations resulted in thinner films with lower carbon‐to‐fluorine ratios. The findings highlight the potential of asymmetric plasma parameter control to modulate film properties locally.
Do investor types matter? A comparative analysis of separate account characteristics and performance
Authors: Rohleder Martin , Tentesch Hendrik , Weh René , Wilkens Marco
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the characteristics and performance of separately managed accounts (SAs), focusing on differences between retail and institutional investor types. It finds that institutional SAs outperform retail and mixed SAs in terms of risk‐adjusted returns, primarily driven by distinctively lower fees and a smaller number of managed accounts. However, once characteristics are controlled for, performance differences become insignificant, suggesting no difference in manager skill. Moreover, the analysis shows that characteristics affect the performance of institutional, retail, and mixed SAs differently. These findings highlight the nuanced impact of investor type on SA performance, offering new insights into asset management practices.
Management of the governance and social aspects of ESG in the financial industry
Authors: Jiao Jie , Yan An
Published: December 2024

This study investigates how banks adjusted their ESG strategies in response to the heightened governance requirements of the 2010 Dodd‐Frank Act. The findings reveal that banks, particularly those with lower operating performance and higher institutional investor ownership, responded by significantly increasing their focus on governance while reducing efforts in social initiatives. In contrast, non‐bank financial institutions, including shadow banks, exhibited simultaneous improvements in both governance and social performances during the same period. This shift in bank ESG management underscores the trade‐offs involved in regulatory compliance, where focusing on a single ESG pillar, such as governance, may unintentionally detract from other pillars like social. Policy‐makers and regulators should adopt a more balanced approach to ensure that all ESG pillars receive adequate attention for long‐term corporate sustainability.
The Design of Endovascular Robots for Cardiac Interventions: A Survey
Authors: Alekseeva Natalia M. , Viller Alexander G. , Romanov Alexey M.
Published: December 2024

The paper presents a survey of modern robots for percutaneous coronary interventions. It covers papers published before October 2024. The robotic systems introduced in these papers are compared by their design, tool manipulation principles, surgical tools compatibility, and human–machine interfaces, including types of feedback. The paper provides an overview of all main design approaches ever implemented in percutaneous coronary intervention robotics and critically analyzes their pros and cons. The survey covers 62 endovascular robotic systems (11 commercial and 51 academic) and 23 endovascular robotic tools, making it the most representative to date to the best of our knowledge. All of these solutions have been implemented at least as prototypes, while some of them have been tested in vivo and even reached clinical practice. In the discussion section, we critically analyze the known field experience with the use of the CorPath GRX (one of the most popular commercial systems currently used in several hospitals around the world), discuss the reasons for the insufficient spread of robotic endovascular surgery and propose a vision for changing this trend. This survey is intended primarily for engineers designing new medical robotic systems. However, it will also be of interest to endovascular surgeons to help them better understand the trade‐offs of both the products already in the market and the promising solutions that will be available in the future.
Does Method of Field Preparation Affect Survival and Growth of Juvenile Chinook Salmon in Agricultural Floodplains?
Authors: Tallman Rachelle L. , Wampler Alexandra N. , Singer Gabriel P. , Jeffres Carson A. , Cocherell Dennis E. , Colby Jordan , Fangue Nann A. , Lusardi Robert A. , Rypel Andrew L.
Published: December 2024

There is growing interest to integrate conservation initiatives into agricultural practices using a reconciliation ecology framework. In California's Central Valley, one approach to improving crucial nursery habitat for threatened and endangered fish species is by re‐creating floodplain habitats through the inundation of agricultural fields during the non‐growing season. We conducted a series of field experiments in agricultural floodplains (winter‐flooded rice fields that historically were natural floodplains) to examine whether different field preparation methods enhanced growth and survival of floodplain‐dependent fish species. Approximately 8000 juvenile fall‐run Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) were reared for at least 28 days on eight, 0.2 hectares (ha) experimental fields. Each experimental field represented one of four treatments (two replicates per treatment): addition of large wood, addition of in‐field canals, addition of both large wood and in‐field canals, and control. Controls fields received no additional field preparations beyond standard post‐growing practices: that is chopping rice into stubble, baling, and removing excess rice straw, and discing the field with a single pass by plowing rice straw into the ground to promote decomposition. We found no significant difference in water temperature, fish growth or fish survival among habitat treatments. Across treatments, survival ranged from 50.1% to 78.3% and averaged 65.75% (+/− 7.89% SE). These findings suggest agricultural floodplains require no additional modifications to promote fish growth and survival. Results illustrate the benefits of integrating working landscapes with conservation initiatives, as this approach creates more accessible and beneficial habitat for native fish species.