bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conference proceedings: Inaugural meeting of the consortium for autism, genetic neurodevelopmental disorders, and digestive diseases
Authors: Halladay Alycia , Croffie Joseph , Dallman Julia , Grabenstatter Heidi , Holingue Calliope , Madgett Katie , Margolis Kara G. , Motil Kathleen J. , Jimenez‐Gomez Andres , Ferguson Bradley J. , Moshiree Baha , Still Kate , Williams Kent , Upp Gerald Rick , Bennett William
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), often experience a higher prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms but have complex medical and behavioral comorbidities that make diagnosis and treatment difficult. A multi‐stakeholder conference was convened to (a) determine patient and family experiences related to GI symptoms in NDDs, (b) review the clinicians' and researchers' perspectives, and (c) determine actionable steps for future research.

Methods

The Consortium for Autism, Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Digestive Diseases (CANDID; www.candidgi.com) virtually over 2 days in 2022 and consisted of four key activities: (1) an electronic family survey to assess underlying NDDs and GI symptoms, (2) a session focused on family perspectives, (3) review current clinical care and research, and (4) discussion to identify key next steps. Survey results were obtained electronically via the REDCap platform, and descriptive statistics were generated. The sessions were recorded, and themes were identified.

Results

The pre‐conference survey ran for ~2 months and 739 families provided responses, with 634 completing all items. 83% had a child with an NDD under age 18, and most patients were White (85%) and non‐Hispanic (87%). Constipation (80%), GI reflux disease (51%), and bloating (49%) were the most frequently reported symptoms. Families gave unstructured feedback that the measures used in the surveys were often difficult to answer for patients with NDDs or who were nonspeaking. Family and clinical/scientific sessions identified several common themes, including (1) the need for less invasive diagnostic modalities, (2) the need to validate or adapt existing diagnostic measures (e.g., the Rome IV criteria) and outcome assessments, and (3) the need for enhanced attention to parent and caregiver input in treatment plans.

Conclusions

Those providing care to children with NDDs, especially those with communication and cognitive challenges, should be aware of the differing needs in this community and consider family perspectives in managing, treating, and measuring GI issues. Future research should focus on adapting or creating diagnostic and research measures for those with NDDs, developing new diagnostic methods to account for diversity in neurodevelopment and communication, and improving methods for family and caregiver engagement in the care of GI disorders.
Conflict between parents, physicians, and healthcare professionals in medical decision‐making: How to address it—A systematic review from the ESPGHAN Ethics Committee
Authors: Roggero Paola , Grima Anne‐Marie , Crespo‐Escobar Paula , Tapsas Dimitrios , Yahav Jacob
Published: September 2024

Medical decisions about pediatric gastroenterology pathologies often involve collaboration between the medical team and the family. On occasions, conflict may arise between the individuals involved in decision making (team–family conflict) causing delays in managing a child's health condition. Little is known on the strategies that can be implemented to address such conflicts. Using the systematic review model by McCullough et al., an electronic literature search was conducted using PUBMED databases and SCOPUS. Studies published between 2001 and 2022 were analyzed to identify high‐risk families, the barriers and facilitators involved in the team–family conflict and the circumstances in which healthcare professionals can be ethically justified to override parents' medical decisions and to trigger the state intervention. The present review provides recommendations on the more suitable ways to manage team–family conflict and gives a practical approach using a case vignette.
Individual and combined effects of high‐temperature stress at booting and flowering stages on rice grain quality
Authors: Wang Wei , Xiao Liujun , Mahmood Aqib , Xu Hanwen , Tang Liang , Liu Leilei , Liu Bing , Cao Weixing , Zhu Yan
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

High temperature stress (HTS) has become a serious threat to rice grain quality and few studies have examined the effects of HTS across multiple stages on rice grain quality. In the present study, we conducted 2 years of HTS treatments under three temperature regimes (32/22 °C, 40/30 °C and 44/34 °C) and HTS durations of 2 days and 4 days at three critical stages: booting, flowering, and a combination of booting and flowering. We employed the heat degree days (HDD) metric, which accounts for both the level and duration of HTS, to quantify the relationships between grain quality traits and HTS.

RESULTS

The results revealed the diverse effects of HTS on rice grain quality at different stages, durations and temperature levels. HTS significantly (P < 0.05) reduced grain quality, with the highest sensitivities (reduction per 1 °C day−1 increase in HDD) observed at the flowering stage, followed by the combined and booting stages treatments under mild HTS treatment (40/30 °C). However, under extreme HTS treatments (44/34 °C) for 4 days, rice grains subjected to combined HTS treatment experienced complete mortality.

CONCLUSION

Pre‐exposed to HTS at the booting stage within a certain intensity can alleviate the adverse effects of post‐flowering HTS on grain quality. This provides valuable insights for assessing the potential impact of multiple HTS events on the grain quality under future climate warming. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of lipid type on betulin‐stabilized water‐in‐oil Pickering emulsion: emulsion properties, in vitro digestion, and betulin bioaccessibility
Authors: Su Shuxian , Liu Yugang , Li Haiyan , Xia Huiping , Li Peiwang , Qin Si , Shi Meng , Guo Shiyin , Zeng Chaoxi
Published: September 2024

Background

The Pickering emulsion delivery technique is widely acknowledged for its efficacy in serving as a carrier that can encapsulate functional components effectively. Previous studies have shown significant differences in the stability of Pickering emulsions composed of different oil phases and in the bioaccessibility of the encapsulated functional ingredients. This study therefore investigated the effects of different carrier oils in the betulin self‐stabilized water‐in‐oil (W/O) Pickering emulsion on the stability of the emulsion and bioaccessibility of betulin.

Results

The results showed that the oil type was one of the main factors affecting the stability of the emulsion. Palm oil and coconut oil provided better storage stability and centrifugal stability due to the high saturated fatty acid content. The bioavailability of betulin correlated significantly with the composition and characteristics of fatty acids in carrier oils. Carrier oils rich in low‐saturation long‐chain fatty acids tended to release more free fatty acids (FFAs), thus forming larger and more mixed micelles with stronger swelling and dissolution ability, resulting in a relatively high bioaccessibility of betulin. In contrast, the bioaccessibility of betulin in the emulsion prepared by coconut oil (with high saturated fatty acid content) was relatively low (1.17%).

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that selecting an appropriate carrier oil is important for the design of self‐stabilized W/O Pickering emulsions to improve the bioaccessibility of betulin and other lipophilic bioactivities effectively. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Development of Machine Learning Models for Predicting the 1‐Year Risk of Reoperation After Lower Limb Oncological Resection and Endoprosthetic Reconstruction Based on Data From the PARITY Trial
Authors: Deng Jiawen , Moskalyk Myron , Shammas‐Toma Matthew , Aoude Ahmed , Ghert Michelle , Bhatnagar Sahir , Bozzo Anthony
Published: September 2024

Background

Oncological resection and reconstruction involving the lower extremities commonly lead to reoperations that impact patient outcomes and healthcare resources. This study aimed to develop a machine learning (ML) model to predict this reoperation risk.

Methods

This study was conducted according to TRIPOD + AI. Data from the PARITY trial was used to develop ML models to predict the 1‐year reoperation risk following lower extremity oncological resection and reconstruction. Six ML algorithms were tuned and calibrated based on fivefold cross‐validation. The best‐performing model was identified using classification and calibration metrics.

Results

The polynomial support vector machine (SVM) model was chosen as the best‐performing model. During internal validation, the SVM exhibited an AUC‐ROC of 0.73 and a Brier score of 0.17. Using an optimal threshold that balances all quadrants of the confusion matrix, the SVM exhibited a sensitivity of 0.45 and a specificity of 0.81. Using a high‐sensitivity threshold, the SVM exhibited a sensitivity of 0.68 and a specificity of 0.68. Total operative time was the most important feature for reoperation risk prediction.

Conclusion

The models may facilitate reoperation risk stratification, allowing for better patient counseling and for physicians to implement measures that reduce surgical risks.
Reasons for Surgical Attrition Among Nonmetastatic Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients: A Single Institutional Experience
Authors: Kakish Hanna , Drigotas Claire , Loftus Alexander W. , Boutros Christina S. , Doh Susan J. , Ammori John B. , Rothermel Luke D. , Hoehn Richard S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) cancers require multidisciplinary treatment, but surgery provides the only potentially curative option. We sought to understand reasons for attrition before surgery within our regional hospital network.

Methods

We performed chart reviews of patients (age 18–80) with stage I–III UGI cancers (gastroesophageal junction, gastric, and hepatopancreatobiliary adenocarcinomas) in our multihospital cancer registry from 2015 to 2021. Our primary outcome was reasons for surgical attrition. Univariable analysis identified factors related to surgical attrition and the Kaplan–Meier method estimated overall survival based on surgery receipt.

Results

Seven hundred and ninety‐two patients were included in our analysis, of whom 107 (13.5%) did not undergo curative surgery. Reasons for not undergoing surgery included medical comorbidities (30.8%), patient preference/nonmedical barriers (24.3%, which included: not interested without further explanation, worried about complications, nonadherence to appointments, insurance issues, did not wish for blood transfusion, lack of social support, preferring home care, and worried about recurrence), psychosocial (5.6%), progression while on neoadjuvant therapy or waiting for transplant (15.0% and 7.5%), poor performance status (3.7%), side effects of neoadjuvant therapy (3.7%), and death unrelated to treatment or unknown cause (9.4%). Nonsurgical management was not associated with race, socioeconomic status, or distance traveled for care. Survival was greatly improved for patients who underwent surgery (158 vs. 63 weeks, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Nearly one in seven patients (18–80 years old) with UGI cancers evaluated at our academic cancer center did not undergo surgical resection. Reasons for surgical attrition included potentially modifiable issues, and addressing these barriers could help overcome inequities in cancer treatment and survival.
Patients With Surgically Resectable Lung Cancer Who Opt for Radiation Have Worse Outcomes
Authors: Song Kimberly J. , Faith Isaac , Tuminello Stephanie , Taioli Emanuela , Rosenzweig Kenneth , Flores Raja M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Surgery has been the standard procedure for resectable primary LC. Survival after stereotactic body radiation therapy, another treatment, is significantly biased due to preponderance of data from patients deemed unsuitable for surgery. We examined survival of patients refusing surgery in favor of radiation therapy.

Methods

We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database to identify patients with primary Stage I NSCLC diagnosed between 2007 and 2016. Patients were excluded if it was unknown if they were recommended for surgery or if surgery was contraindicated. Multiple predictors were assessed: radiation versus surgery, age at diagnosis, sex, race/ethnicity, health insurance status, marital status, tumor size, and histology. A multivariate analysis was performed to estimate hazard ratios and generate Kaplan−Meier survival curves.

Results

When adjusted for confounding variables, survival was greater for patients undergoing surgical resection than those refusing surgery in favor of radiation (HRadj 2.66; 95% CI: 2.27−3.11, p < 0.001) or for those receiving no standardized treatment (HRadj 4.43; 95% CI: 3.57−5.50, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

SBRT is an effective treatment for inoperable early LC but there is limited data comparing outcomes against surgical resection. When eligible for both, patients refusing surgery and choosing radiation had worse survival when adjusting for variables including age, tumor size, and histology, and suggests that surgical resection is a superior treatment modality.
Management of Peritoneal Surface Malignancies in Saudi Arabia: An Update
Authors: Helmi Hadeel , Alyami Mohammad , Bin Traiki Thamer , Amin Tarek , Alzahrani Abdulaziz , Alnahawi Mamdouh , Alzahrani Nayef
Published: September 2024

Peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM) are aggressive and associated with poor prognosis. Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have been used to treat PSM since 1990. In Saudi Arabia, the first HIPEC and pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) were performed in 2008 and 2019, respectively. With increasing incidences of PSM in Saudi Arabia, the demand for such procedures has grown. This article outlines the status of PSM management in Saudi Arabia and its prospects.
Assessing the Reporting Quality of Machine Learning Algorithms in Head and Neck Oncology
Authors: Alapati Rahul , Renslo Bryan , Wagoner Sarah F. , Karadaghy Omar , Serpedin Aisha , Kim Yeo Eun , Feucht Maria , Wang Naomi , Ramesh Uma , Bon Nieves Antonio , Lawrence Amelia , Virgen Celina , Sawaf Tuleen , Rameau Anaïs , Bur Andrés M.
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess reporting quality of machine learning (ML) algorithms in the head and neck oncology literature using the TRIPOD‐AI criteria.

Data Sources

A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, incorporating search terms related to “artificial intelligence,” “machine learning,” “deep learning,” “neural network,” and various head and neck neoplasms.

Review Methods

Two independent reviewers analyzed each published study for adherence to the 65‐point TRIPOD‐AI criteria. Items were classified as “Yes,” “No,” or “NA” for each publication. The proportion of studies satisfying each TRIPOD‐AI criterion was calculated. Additionally, the evidence level for each study was evaluated independently by two reviewers using the Oxford Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine (OCEBM) Levels of Evidence. Discrepancies were reconciled through discussion until consensus was reached.

Results

The study highlights the need for improvements in ML algorithm reporting in head and neck oncology. This includes more comprehensive descriptions of datasets, standardization of model performance reporting, and increased sharing of ML models, data, and code with the research community. Adoption of TRIPOD‐AI is necessary for achieving standardized ML research reporting in head and neck oncology.

Conclusion

Current reporting of ML algorithms hinders clinical application, reproducibility, and understanding of the data used for model training. To overcome these limitations and improve patient and clinician trust, ML developers should provide open access to models, code, and source data, fostering iterative progress through community critique, thus enhancing model accuracy and mitigating biases.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 135:687–694, 2025
Loss‐of‐function variants in RNA binding motif protein X‐linked induce neuronal defects contributing to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis pathogenesis
Authors: He Di , He Xinyi , Shen Dongchao , Liu Liyang , Yang Xunzhe , Hao Meng , Wang Yi , Li Yi , Liu Qing , Liu Mingsheng , Wang Jiucun , Zhang Xue , Cui Liying
Published: September 2024

Despite being one of the most prevalent RNA modifications, the role of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains ambiguous. In this investigation, we explore the contribution of genetic defects of m6A‐related genes to ALS pathogenesis. We scrutinized the mutation landscape of m6A genes through a comprehensive analysis of whole‐exome sequencing cohorts, encompassing 508 ALS patients and 1660 population‐matched controls. Our findings reveal a noteworthy enrichment of RNA binding motif protein X‐linked (RBMX) variants among ALS patients, with a significant correlation between pathogenic m6A variants and adverse clinical outcomes. Furthermore, Rbmx knockdown in NSC‐34 cells overexpressing mutant TDP43Q331K results in cell death mediated by an augmented p53 response. Similarly, RBMX knockdown in ALS motor neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) manifests morphological defects and activation of the p53 pathway. Transcriptional analysis using publicly available single‐cell sequencing data from the primary motor cortex indicates that RBMX‐regulated genes selectively influence excitatory neurons and exhibit enrichment in ALS‐implicated pathways. Through integrated analyses, our study underscores the emerging roles played by RBMX in ALS, suggesting a potential nexus between the disease and dysregulated m6A‐mediated mRNA metabolism.
Evaluation of Ischemic Time and Complications in Free Jejunum Transfer
Authors: Suzuki Mayu , Arata Jun , Kaito Shuko
Published: September 2024

Background

In free jejunum transfer, knowing the ischemic tolerance time of the jejunum is crucial. It helps determine the need for reharvesting if an unexpected situation prolongs the ischemic time. The current ischemic tolerance time in humans is unknown. We investigated the relationship between ischemic time and postoperative complications in head and neck cancer patients who underwent free jejunum transfer.

Methods

The study included 76 patients with available medical records out of 103 patients who underwent free jejunum transfer between 2009 and 2023. The association between the surgical procedure, including ischemic time, and patient's background, and flap engraftment, stenosis of the intestinal anastomosis, the swallowing function, and other complications was investigated.

Results

The ischemic time for jejunal flaps ranged from 1 h 24 min to 6 h, with a mean of 197 ± 55.5 min. In 72 patients, the jejunum was successfully engrafted, but vascular occlusion occurred in another four patients. In three of these patients, jejunal necrosis occurred, and there was no specific trend in ischemic time. Stenosis of the intestinal anastomosis occurred in 17 cases (22%), with ischemic time (≥3 h) and age (≥75 years) being significant factors for stenosis (ischemic time: 30% vs. 10%, p = 0.048, age: 50% vs. 15%, p < 0.01). No significant correlations were observed with other complications or the swallowing function.

Conclusion

There was no specific trend between ischemic time and jejunal survival rate, indicating that an ischemic time within 6 h may not have affected engraftment. Although we have recently performed intestinal anastomosis prior to vascular anastomosis, the choice of surgical technique should be adapted to the patient's age and background.
The relationships between quality of life with health literacy, social support and resilience in older stroke survivors: A structural equation model
Authors: Chen Mei , Li Jinghong , Chen Chunyan , Zhao Qinghua , Huang Huanhuan
Published: September 2024

Aim

To the determinants and the underlying mechanism of health literacy, social support, and resilience on the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) among older stroke survivors.

Design

A cross‐sectional design was applied at four comprehensive hospitals in Chongqing via convenience sampling from January 2020 to June 2021.

Methods

Health literacy, social support, and resilience were designed as independent variables, and HRQoL was measured as a dependent variable. Structural equation modelling with the bootstrap method was used to test the hypotheses.

Results

The theoretically derived model exhibited a good fit (χ2/df ratio = 2.830, GFI = 0.987, CFI = 0.978, RMSEA = 0.066). Health literacy (β = 0.12, p < 0.05) and social support (β = 0.14, p < 0.05) directly affect HRQoL. Resilience (β = 0.40, p < 0.01) also mediated the relationship between health literacy, social support, and HRQoL. The three variables explaining 29.0% of HRQoL variance.

Patient or Public Contribution

There was no direct patient or public involvement in the design, conduct, or reporting of this study. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling from four comprehensive hospitals in Chongqing, and their perspectives or contributions were not explicitly sought. The study focused on examining the determinants and underlying mechanism of health literacy, social support, and resilience on the health‐related quality of life among older stroke survivors. Nonetheless, the findings of this research may inform the development of interventions aimed at improving the health‐related quality of life in post‐stroke older patients.
Production of gamma‐polyglutamic acid microgel by Bacillus species: Industrial applications and future perspectives
Authors: Pal Priti , Singh Akhilesh Kumar , Sarangi Prakash Kumar , Sahoo Uttam Kumar , Singh Harikesh B. , Subudhi Sanjukta , Singh Thangjam Anand
Published: September 2024

γ‐Polyglutamic acid (γ‐PGA) microgel, produced by Bacillus spp., represents a promising biomaterial with diverse industrial applications due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and nontoxic nature. This review explores the current methodologies in the industrial production of γ‐PGA microgel, emphasizing the optimization of fermentation conditions, genetic engineering of Bacillus strains, and advances in downstream processing techniques. Key applications in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental management are discussed, highlighting its role in drug delivery systems, as a biocontrol agent, and in wastewater treatment. Future perspectives include enhancing production efficiency through synthetic biology, expanding its application scope, and addressing economic and regulatory challenges to facilitate broader adoption. The integration of innovative technologies and multidisciplinary approaches is crucial for the sustainable development and commercial success of γ‐PGA microgel.
A wideband flexible antenna utilizing PMMA/PVDF‐HFP/PZT polymer composite film and silver‐based conductive ink for wearable applications
Authors: Douhi Saïd , Boumegnane Abdelkrim , Chakhchaoui Nabil , Eddiai Adil , Cherkaoui Omar , Mazroui M'hammed
Published: September 2024

The relentless drive towards miniaturization and seamless integration of electronic components in wireless communications and wearable devices has significantly increased the demand for flexible, cost‐effective composites with high dielectric constants and low losses. This study presents a wideband, low‐profile, and flexible antenna with excellent on body radiation performance for wearable applications. The antenna is designed using a low‐loss composite film based on PMMA‐PVDF‐HFP‐PZT and silver‐based ink. The proposed flexible antenna exhibits a wide bandwidth of 132.16% with a voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) of less than two. It achieves a peak gain of 2.76 dBi at 2.92 GHz and maintains a maximum radiation efficiency of 80% across the 1.26–6.17 GHz frequency range. These characteristics demonstrate that the antenna is an effective solution for achieving high data rates and reliable communication links. The antenna's suitability for wearable applications is assessed by testing it on a simulated human body and analyzing its behavior under physical deformation. The results under bending showed only a minimal frequency detuning, which is negligible given the antenna's wide operational bandwidth. The specific absorption rate (SAR) analysis shows values of approximately 1.88 W/kg at 3.5 GHz with an input power of 0.5 W, and 0.279 W/kg at 5.8 GHz with an input power of 0.45 W, which complies with established safety limits for exposure. Overall, these results suggest that the proposed antenna is a viable solution for integration into wearable medical devices, such as a doctor's chest badge, enabling noncontact interactions and reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.
Multifunctional strain sensor with adjustable conductive network for wearable applications
Authors: Huang Qiaoling , Feng Yuanyuan , Dai Xinming , Guo Shuang , Ma Shuning , Abdelsalam Amir A. , Han Sensen
Published: September 2024

Wearable sensors based on nanomaterials have recently elicited keen research interest and potential for a new range of flexible devices. This paper presents a simple method for the preparation of laser‐induced porous graphene (LIG) and discusses its application in monitoring human vital signs. LIG formed on a polyimide (PI)/polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite material exhibits inherent high stretchability (over 30%), eliminating the need for transfer processes used in LIG prepared by laser scribing on PI films. LIG/CuSO4 composite materials, with different concentrations of Cu particles, show tunable mechanical and electronic properties based on laser‐induced graphene. The fabricated LIG demonstrates good cyclic stability and a nearly linear resistance response to tensile strain, making it suitable for wearable electronic devices, the maximum strain value and linear response to applied strain from 3% to 79%. The sensor exhibits a fast response time and high sensitivity, enabling real‐time detection of human pulse, joint motion, and complex dynamics. The multifunctionality advantages of LIG flexible sensor offer potential applications in next‐generation wearable electronics.
Improved hydrolytic resistance of polylactide biocomposite films reinforced by rice husk before and after accelerated aging
Authors: Wang Wei , Ye Guangchao , Zhang Ying , Bian Xiujie , Lin Peng , Dong Yuanyuan , Hao Pengfei , Wang Xiang
Published: September 2024

The enhanced durability of biobased polylactide (PLA) is a critical prerequisite for it to be considered a viable alternative to petroleum‐based polymers for long‐term applications. Leveraging the performance improvements achieved through interface construction, PLA‐biomass composites have garnered considerable interest and have been widely utilized as a completely degradable material. The hydrolytic behavior of PLA biocomposites in photo‐hydrothermal environments was examined in this study in relation to the impact of biomass components and the specifically designed interface. We observed that biomass could act as an effective stabilizer in the composites, leading to a 25.6% reduction in the hydrolysis reaction rate constant. This stabilization occurs as biomass impedes the diffusion of water molecules and the extension of PLA molecular chains across various hydrothermal environments, thereby enhancing the hydrolytic resistance of PLA. The intriguing aspect is that this stabilizing effect of biomass could be moderated by an interface created through surface treatment, which facilitates enhanced transfer of active small molecules during the photolysis‐hydrolysis process. Consequently, this approach presents a novel method for producing PLA biocomposites that offers excellent hydrolytic resistance, an adjustable degradation cycle, and expected potential applications in advanced packaging and agricultural domains.

Highlights

Biomass significantly enhances the hydrolysis resistance of polylactide (PLA) biocomposites.

This stability boosts due to the obstructive and shielding effects of biomass.

Effective interface could regulate the usable life of PLA biocomposites.

The role that biomass/ interfaces play also applies to PLA photodegradation.

Photo‐hydrolysis mechanism is not affected by biomass or designed interface.
Manufacturing and characterization of continuous carbon fiber reinforced polyphenylene sulfide filaments via melt impregnation method
Authors: Sidim Gizem , Dogu Mustafa , Ozbek Belma
Published: September 2024

The utilization of continuous fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composites (CFRTP) in additive manufacturing technology (AM) is envisioned to enable the production of high‐performance parts with enhanced mechanical properties. In the production of CFRTP filaments, ensuring proper impregnation plays a crucial role in improving the characteristics of the produced filament. Carbon fiber (CF) reinforced polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composites find applications in secondary aerospace parts, automotive structural parts, and chemical process applications. Continuous CF‐reinforced PPS filaments enable the production of lightweight, high‐performance parts with mechanical strength, heat, and chemical resistance in AM. In the present study, continuous CF‐reinforced PPS filaments were produced using the melt impregnation method for use in fused deposition modeling technology. Filament diameter, geometrical evenness, and effective fiber impregnation are important criteria in filament production. An impregnation mold was designed and manufactured to provide impregnation. The influence of three different pin angles (56°, 70°, and 82°) on impregnation and mechanical properties has been investigated by developing an impregnation die for CFRTP filament production. Tensile testing, fiber content analysis, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscope analysis were performed on the produced filaments. Furthermore, increasing the pin angle leads to an increase in both the spreading and impregnation of fibers.

Highlights

Impregnation die for effective wetting of fibers with polymer.

Significance of pin angle in fiber spreading and wetting with polymer.

Application of test standards for fiber content.
Proanthocyanidins as the marker of amomum fruit from three botanical origins based on comprehensive profiling with LC–MS and GC–MS combined with chemometrics
Authors: Deng Kai , Long Huali , He Qingqing , Hou Jinjun , Zhang Zijia , Zhou Jing , Zhou Yang , Shen Minmin , Yan Qiang , Wu Wanying
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Amomum fruit, also known as Sharen, serves as both a functional food and a traditional Chinese medicine with significant pharmacological activities. However, there are three botanical origins of Amomum fruit: Amomum villosum Lour. (AVL), Amomum villosum Lour. var. xanthioides T. L. (AVX), and Amomum longiligulare T. L. Wu (ALW).

Objective

Conducting a comprehensive chemical composition analysis of Amomum fruit from three botanical origins aims to identify potential differences in metabolic characteristics.

Methods

To annotate the metabolic characteristic ions of multi‐origin Amomum fruit, we employed metabolomic techniques, including ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with linear ion trap‐Orbitrap–tandem mass spectrometry (MS) and gas chromatography–MS, in conjunction with feature‐based molecular networking technology. Additionally, chemometrics was utilized to examine the correlations between the various botanical origins.

Results

A total of 201 non‐volatile and 151 volatile metabolites were annotated, and most of the proanthocyanidins and flavonoids were identified by feature‐based molecular networking. Additionally, 61 non‐volatile and 45 volatile feature ions were screened out for classification. Principal component analysis, orthogonal projection to latent structures discrimination analysis, and heat map analysis were employed to clearly distinguish the metabolite profiles of Amomum fruit from different origins. Hierarchical clustering analysis indicated that proanthocyanidins C1 and C2, as well as proanthocyanins oligomers, show significant differential expression between AVX and AVL, which could be the new quality markers for the classification.

Conclusion

Classification of the botanical origin of Amomum fruit based on LC–MS characteristic ions proved to be more advantageous. This study introduces new strategies and technical support for the quality control of Amomum fruit and facilitates the identification of unknown compounds for future research.
Prediction of Ca2+ Binding Site in Proteins With a Fast and Accurate Method Based on Statistical Mechanics and Analysis of Crystal Structures
Authors: Basit Abdul , Choudhury Devapriya , Bandyopadhyay Pradipta
Published: September 2024

Predicting the precise locations of metal binding sites within metalloproteins is a crucial challenge in biophysics. A fast, accurate, and interpretable computational prediction method can complement the experimental studies. In the current work, we have developed a method to predict the location of Ca2+ ions in calcium‐binding proteins using a physics‐based method with an all‐atom description of the proteins, which is substantially faster than the molecular dynamics simulation‐based methods with accuracy as good as data‐driven approaches. Our methodology uses the three‐dimensional reference interaction site model (3D‐RISM), a statistical mechanical theory, to calculate Ca2+ ion density around protein structures, and the locations of the Ca2+ ions are obtained from the density. We have taken previously used datasets to assess the efficacy of our method as compared to previous works. Our accuracy is 88%, comparable with the FEATURE program, one of the well‐known data‐driven methods. Moreover, our method is physical, and the reasons for failures can be ascertained in most cases. We have thoroughly examined the failed cases using different structural and crystallographic measures, such as B‐factor, R‐factor, electron density map, and geometry at the binding site. It has been found that x‐ray structures have issues in many of the failed cases, such as geometric irregularities and dubious assignment of ion positions. Our algorithm, along with the checks for structural accuracy, is a major step in predicting calcium ion positions in metalloproteins.
Mechanism of Iron‐Catalyzed C—H Alkenylation of Pivalophenone Derivatives With Unsymmetric Internal Alkynes
Authors: Santoro Stefano
Published: September 2024

The mechanism of an iron‐catalyzed C—H alkenylation of pivalophenone derivatives with unsymmetric internal alkynes is investigated in details by means of density functional theory calculations. It is shown that the reaction begins with two consecutive ligand exchanges, followed by a fast and reversible oxidative addition C—H activation step. Next, an alkyne insertion into the Fe—H bond, two isomerization steps, and a reductive elimination afford the final product. The reductive elimination is the turnover‐limiting step of the process, and also determines the regiochemical outcome of the reaction. The origin of the regioselectivity is proposed to be the steric repulsion between the bulky trimethylsilyl group and the aromatic fragment in the reductive elimination step leading to the not observed regioisomer.
Modification and testing of SWAT for paddy field water consumption and yield
Authors: Chen Jialong , Li Yalong , Luo Wenbing , Yu Lei , Zou Zhike , Wang Wenjuan , Huang Shaozhe , Tang Chi , Ye Lei , Xiao Xue
Published: September 2024

SWAT model is one of the primary tools for assessing irrigation district water management and water‐saving measures. However, its incapacity to consider the diverse growth and water requirements of paddy during various growth stages, as well as the insufficient availability of external water sources. This study introduces the Penman‐Monteith equation and Jensen model into the SWAT framework, setting crop coefficients, crop base coefficients, and growth stage sensitivity indices based on the different growth stage. Additionally, modifications are made to the external water source available for irrigation and paddy field leakage modules, establishing a distributed agricultural hydrological model suitable for accurately simulating water balance elements and paddy yield in multi‐source irrigation districts. The Yangshudang watershed in the Zhanghe irrigation district is chosen for the evaluation of the modified model's simulation performance, with a quantitative assessment of water‐saving and yield‐increasing effects. The results demonstrate that the modified model effectively meets the requirements for simulating paddy evapotranspiration of various growth stages, yield, agricultural irrigation water consumptions, and runoff, exhibiting a notable enhancement in performance. As two common water‐saving measures in irrigation areas, intermittent irrigation and irrigation district renovation were used as two water‐saving scenarios in the simulation of the modified SWAT model. Under intermittent irrigation, the watershed experiences a 6.58% reduction in net irrigation water use. In the scenario with irrigation district renovation, the water resources in the watershed are utilized more efficiently. The modified model from this study can be applied for assessing the synergistic effects of irrigation district water‐saving and yield‐increasing measures, providing crucial insights for the formulation of irrigation district water‐saving strategies and water resource optimization plans.
Novel FRET‐based Immunological Synapse Biosensor for the Prediction of Chimeric Antigen Receptor‐T Cell Function
Authors: Lee Hae Nim , Lee Soojin , Hong Jisu , Yoo Hyejin , Jeong Jiyun , Kim Yong‐Woo , Shin Hyun Mu , Jang Mihue , Lee Chang‐Han , Kim Hang‐Rae , Seong Jihye
Published: September 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cell therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. CARs are activated at the immunological synapse (IS) when their single‐chain variable fragment (scFv) domain engages with an antigen, allowing them to directly eliminate cancer cells. Here, an innovative IS biosensor based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) for the real‐time assessment of CAR‐IS architecture and signaling competence is presented. Using this biosensor, scFv variants for mesothelin‐targeting CARs and identified as a novel scFv with enhanced CAR‐T cell functionality despite its lower affinity than the original screened. The original CAR promoted internalization and trogocytosis, disrupting stable IS formation and impairing functionality are further observed. These findings emphasize the importance of enhancing IS quality rather than maximizing scFv affinity for superior CAR‐T cell responses. Therefore, the FRET‐based IS biosensor is a powerful tool for predicting CAR‐T cell function, enabling the efficient engineering of next‐generation CARs with enhanced antitumor potency.
Multi‐locus genome‐wide association study for grain yield and drought tolerance indices in sorghum accessions
Authors: Tsehaye Yirgalem , Menamo Temesgen M. , Abay Fetien , Tadesse Taye , Bantte Kassahun
Published: September 2024

Drought is a significant factor that causes yield loss in essential cereal crops such as sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], necessitating the development of drought‐tolerant varieties adaptable to various water conditions. This study aimed to pinpoint drought‐tolerant sorghum lines and genomic regions for tolerance by utilizing 216 sorghum accessions in stressed and non‐stressed environments at two locations. Genetic diversity was evident among accessions in terms of grain yield under different watering regimes. Drought stress indices such as the stress tolerance index, mean productivity, geometric mean productivity, harmonic mean productivity, yield stability index, and yield index were identified as effective measures for selecting drought‐tolerant sorghum. Cluster analysis classified genotypes into four groups based on their association with grain yield, highlighting Acc. #28546 and Acc. #216739 as highly drought tolerant across environments. This study identified 32 and 22 quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) for drought indices and grain yield under stress and non‐stress conditions, respectively, at two locations, with five common QTNs linked to multiple drought indices. Colocation analysis revealed that these QTNs were associated with known stay‐green‐related quantitative trait loci (QTLs), and 47 putative genes near these QTNs potentially influenced drought tolerance traits. It is suggested that accession selection considers multiple indices for robust evaluation. Understanding the identified genes and their functions provides insights into the genetic mechanisms governing plant responses to drought stress, offering prospects for developing improved drought‐resistant sorghum varieties through further genetic research.
Effect of dietary medicinal plants on physiological responses of broiler chickens challenged with Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Nazari Zaynab , Shirzadi Hassan , Taherpour Kamran , Rahmatnejad Enayat , Khatibjoo Ali
Published: September 2024

Background

Phytogenic additives would be helpful to alleviate the adverse effect of Campylobacter jejuni on the performance and physiological responses of broiler chickens.

Objective

This experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of Echinacea purpurea (EP) and Thymbra spicata (TS) on the performance, nutrient digestibility, serum biochemistry, intestinal morphology, intestinal microbiota and immune responses of broilers challenged with C. jejuni from 0 to 42 days of age.

Methods

A total of 240 male broiler chickens were divided into 6 groups and fed various diets: a control diet; the control diet supplemented with EP at 0.25% (EP25) or 0.50% (EP50); the control diet supplemented with TS at 0.25% (TS25) and 0.50% (TS50); or the control diet containing erythromycin at 55 ppm. Chicks were orally challenged with C. jejuni on Days 21 and 23 of age.

Results

EP and TS25 diets enhanced European production efficiency factor, feed conversion ratio and digestibility of dry matter and organic matter. TS25 increased duodenal villous height (VH) and surface area on Day 42 of age. EP25 diet increased ileal VH compared to control and erythromycin diets. Diets containing certain EP25 and TS increased the Bifidobacterium population and decreased C. jejuni population on Day 39 of age. EP50 and TS50 diets increased antibody titration against Newcastle disease virus.

Conclusions

In conclusion, EP and TS dietary supplementation improved performance, microflora, intestinal morphology and immune responses in C. jejuni‐challenged broilers.
Regeneration-Induced Variances of Aeroelastic Properties of Turbine Blades
Authors: Stania Lennart , Seume Joerg R.
Published: September 2024

Regeneration and wear result in geometric deviations between design intent and reality of turbine blades. These deviations influence the aerodynamic flow field and the aeroelastic behaviour of downstream blades. As an example for the effect of such deviations between modules on blade vibration amplitudes, an experiment is set up to determine the influence of cold streaks, which can occur due to widening of cooling air holes. The vibration amplitude for an off-design point is increased by 20% and for the design point as well. We conclude that the forced response caused by cooling air from the turbine blades must be considered during the design process and for life predictions, especially for higher relative cooling air mass flows. Furthermore, different geometric deviations may occur simultaneously, which can magnify the vibration amplitude even further. A probabilistic process presented here investigates these combined effects. It is shown that a maximum amplitude exists within the given geometric boundaries. Using this information, new safety margins can be set for geometric deviations in the repair or manufacturing process.
Local Governments and Public Administration
Authors: Ohsugi Satoru
Published: September 2024

A quarter of a century after decentralization reforms began, local governments in Japan find themselves standing at a crossroads.

The role of local autonomous bodies in the government sector is exceedingly huge. On the other hand, significant financial disparities continue to exist among local governments. The level of administrative services has been left to the discretion of the regions due to decentralization reforms. When we consider the full-scale arrival of a society marked by a declining birthrate, aging population, and depopulation, it is uncertain as to whether the current system is sustainable.

In this chapter, the author will focus on the organizational structure and operations of local governments and go over their basic structure and operational reality. It can be said that the ability of local governments to proactively and flexibly deal with the various challenges faced by Japan rests on this point. Going forward, local governments are expected to be the driving force behind open innovation at the will of the local community as they aim to cultivate a society rich in diversity in accordance with actual local conditions while coordinating with various actors.
Multimorbidität als Prädiktor für eine stationäre Aufnahme in der klinischen Notfall- und Akutmedizin
Authors: Grüneberg E. , Fliedner R. , Beißbarth T. , von Arnim C. A. F. , Blaschke S.
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund

Infolge der demografischen Entwicklung ist ein deutlicher Anstieg von multimorbiden Notfallpatient*innen in der klinischen Notfall- und Akutmedizin in Deutschland zu verzeichnen. Zur Definition operationalisierbarer Kriterien für die Notwendigkeit der stationären Aufnahmeindikation in diesem Patientenkollektiv wurde eine hierarchische Clusteranalyse durchgeführt.

Methodik

In einer retrospektiven, monozentrischen Studie wurden Daten von n = 35.249 Notfällen (01/2016–05/2018) analysiert. Multimorbidität (MM) wurde bei Vorliegen von mehr als 5 im Behandlungsverlauf resultierenden ICD-10-GM-Diagnosen definiert. Es erfolgte eine hierarchische Clusteranalyse der zuvor in 112 Subcluster zusammengefassten Diagnosen zur Ermittlung spezifischer Cluster stationärer und ambulanter Fälle.

Ergebnisse

Stationäre Aufnahmen erfolgten bei 81,2 % aller Notfälle (n = 28.633). Die Kriterien der MM wurden bei 54,7 % der stationären (n = 15.652) und 0,97 % der ambulanten Fälle (n = 64) erfüllt. Der Altersunterschied zwischen letzteren war hochsignifikant (68,7/60,8 Jahre; p < 0,001).

Durch hierarchische Clusteranalyse wurden für stationär aufgenommene, multimorbide Patient*innen (MP) 13 Cluster mit unterschiedlichen Diagnosen und für ambulante MP 7 Cluster mit vorrangig hämatologischen Malignomen identifiziert. Die Notaufnahmeverweildauer (VWD) stationärer MP war mehr als doppelt so lang (max. 8,3 h) wie die ambulanter MP (max. 3,2 h).

Schlussfolgerungen

Es wurden für MM typische Diagnosekombinationen in Form von Clustern identifiziert. Im Vergleich zu monodimensionalen oder kombinierten Diagnosen resultiert durch die statistisch erhobene Clusterbildung eine wesentlich genauere Prognose für die Disposition in der klinischen Notfallversorgung als auch für die leistungsrechtliche Prozesszuordnung.