bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solving the Etiology of Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy with Spike–Wave Activation in Sleep (D/EE‐SWAS)
Authors: Viswanathan Sindhu , Oliver Karen L. , Regan Brigid M. , Schneider Amy L. , Myers Candace T. , Mehaffey Michele G. , LaCroix Amy J. , Antony Jayne , Webster Richard , Cardamone Michael , Subramanian Gopinath M. , Chiu Annie T.G. , Roza Eugenia , Teleanu Raluca I. , Malone Stephen , Leventer Richard J. , Gill Deepak , Berkovic Samuel F. , Hildebrand Michael S. , Goad Beatrice S. , Howell Katherine B. , Symonds Joseph D. , Brunklaus Andreas , Sadleir Lynette G. , Zuberi Sameer M. , Mefford Heather C. , Scheffer Ingrid E.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To understand the etiological landscape and phenotypic differences between 2 developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) syndromes: DEE with spike–wave activation in sleep (DEE‐SWAS) and epileptic encephalopathy with spike–wave activation in sleep (EE‐SWAS).

Methods

All patients fulfilled International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) DEE‐SWAS or EE‐SWAS criteria with a Core cohort (n = 91) drawn from our Epilepsy Genetics research program, together with 10 etiologically solved patients referred by collaborators in the Expanded cohort (n = 101). Detailed phenotyping and analysis of molecular genetic results were performed. We compared the phenotypic features of individuals with DEE‐SWAS and EE‐SWAS. Brain‐specific gene co‐expression analysis was performed for D/EE‐SWAS genes.

Results

We identified the etiology in 42/91 (46%) patients in our Core cohort, including 29/44 (66%) with DEE‐SWAS and 13/47 (28%) with EE‐SWAS. A genetic etiology was identified in 31/91 (34%). D/EE‐SWAS genes were highly co‐expressed in brain, highlighting the importance of channelopathies and transcriptional regulators. Structural etiologies were found in 12/91 (13%) individuals. We identified 10 novel D/EE‐SWAS genes with a range of functions: ATP1A2, CACNA1A, FOXP1, GRIN1, KCNMA1, KCNQ3, PPFIA3, PUF60, SETD1B, and ZBTB18, and 2 novel copy number variants, 17p11.2 duplication and 5q22 deletion. Although developmental regression patterns were similar in both syndromes, DEE‐SWAS was associated with a longer duration of epilepsy and poorer intellectual outcome than EE‐SWAS.

Interpretation

DEE‐SWAS and EE‐SWAS have highly heterogeneous genetic and structural etiologies. Phenotypic analysis highlights valuable clinical differences between DEE‐SWAS and EE‐SWAS which inform clinical care and prognostic counseling. Our etiological findings pave the way for the development of precision therapies. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:932–943
Evaluation of Glymphatic System Development in Neonatal Brain via Diffusion Analysis along the Perivascular Space Index
Authors: Lin Shiwei , Guo Meifen , Liang Qunjun , Lin Xiaoshan , Chen Shengli , Li Ying , Chen Peiqi , Qiu Yingwei
Published: August 2024

Objective

Glymphatic system is a recently discovered macroscopic waste clearance system associated with numerous neurological diseases. However, little is known about glymphatic system development in neonates. We sought to evaluate diffusion along the perivascular space (ALPS) index, a proxy for glymphatic system function, in neonates and investigate its potential associations with maturation, sex, and preterm birth.

Methods

Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data in 418 neonates, including 92 preterm neonates (57 males) and 326 term neonates (175 males), from the Developing Human Connectome Project were used for evaluating ALPS index. Linear regression modeling was performed to assess group differences in the ALPS index according to preterm birth and sex. Pearson's and partial correlation analysis were performed to assess the association between the ALPS index and gestational age (GA) as well as postmenstrual age (PMA) at MRI. Moderation analysis was performed to assess the moderation effect of preterm birth on the relationship between the ALPS index and PMA.

Results

Compared to term neonates, preterm neonates exhibited lower ALPS indices (p < 0.001). The ALPS index positively correlated with PMA (p = 0.004) and GA (p < 0.001). Preterm birth (p = 0.013) had a significant moderation effect on the relationship between the ALPS index and PMA. Sex had no significant direct effect (p = 0.639) or moderation effect (p = 0.333) on ALPS index.

Interpretation

Glymphatic system development is a dynamic process in neonates, which can be moderated by preterm birth, the ALPS index could serve as a sensitive biomarker for monitoring this process. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:970–980
Comparison of antioxidant efficiencies in oil‐in‐water emulsion using extracellular vesicles from olive co‐products or liposomes as antioxidants carriers
Authors: Baréa Bruno , Barouh Nathalie , Fenaghra Amal , Colosetti Pascal , Lecomte Jérôme , Durand Erwann , Mey Anne , Laugerette Fabienne , Michalski Marie‐Caroline , Bourlieu‐Lacanal Claire , Villeneuve Pierre
Published: August 2024

Olive extracellular vesicles and synthetic liposomes were evaluated as carriers of antioxidants to stabilize oil‐in‐water emulsions against oxidative degradation. For this, hydroxytyrosol, rosmarinic acid and their lipophilic counterparts, (hydroxytyrosyl dodecanoate esters or eicosyl rosmarinate esters) were loaded into these carrier vesicles and the antioxidant efficiencies of these formulations were compared with those of the corresponding antioxidants alone. Using the conjugated autoxidizable triene assay (CAT assay), our results shows that loaded synthetic liposome mimicking the lipid membrane composition of olive extracellular vesicle allowed to enhance the antioxidant effect of the loaded antioxidant especially with the two lipophilic hydroxytyrosol and rosmarinic acid esters. On the contrary, the loading of the studied antioxidant into the olive extracellular vesicles did not result in an improvement of the antioxidant activity. The antioxidant effects of loaded vesicles were also evaluated in rapeseed oil (1% w/w)‐in‐water emulsions that were stored at 40°C for 21 days and for which oxidative status was monitored by the quantification of primary and secondary oxidation compounds. In that case, the boosting effect of liposomal carriers was not confirmed. This could be due to a different type of emulsions compared to the one used with the CAT assay as different surfactants and oxidation inducers were employed. Additionally, the limited physical stability of the carrier could be involved as liposomes loaded with the most lipophilic antioxidants, namely hydroxytyrosyl dodecanoate and eicosyl rosmarinate were shown to be instable for period exceeding 10 days of storage.
Adsorption studies of organic azo dyes from their aqueous solutions by a pH sensitive sodium alginate‐cl‐poly (N‐hydroxyethyl acrylamide‐co‐methacrylic acid) @Au/ montmorillonite nanocomposite hydrogel
Authors: Samanta Santu Kumar , Adak Shubhadeep , Tripathy Tridib
Published: August 2024

A pH responsive monometallic‐clay nanocomposite hydrogel, sodium alginate‐cl‐poly (N‐hydroxy ethyl acrylamide‐co‐methacrylic acid) @ Au/ montmorillonite clay (SANCHG@Au/MMT) is synthesized in situ using sodium alginate (SA) as a polysaccharide. Two other nano composite hydrogels namely sodium alginate‐cl‐poly (N‐hydroxy ethyl acrylamide‐co‐methacrylic acid) @ Au (SANCHG@Au) and sodium alginate‐cl‐poly (N‐hydroxy ethyl acrylamide‐co‐methacrylic acid) @ montmorillonite clay (SANCHG@MMT) are also prepared. All the synthesized nano composite hydrogels are characterized using various techniques. Water swelling of the three hydrogels along with their textile dye adsorption properties is evaluated in congo red (CR), benzopurpurin (BP) and tartrazine (TZ) from their aqueous solutions. Among the three hydrogels the % water swelling of SANCHG@Au/MMT is superior (396% at pH = 8) and also the adsorption capacity over the other two. The dye adsorption property of SANCHG@Au/MMT is found to be pH sensitive. Adsorption follows both the Langmuir adsorption isotherm with Qmax values 512.19 mg.g−1 for CR at pH = 4, 476.09 mg.g−1 at pH = 4 for BP and 454.79 mg.g−1 at pH = 6 for TZ respectively and Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherm model. The kinetic data fit with pseudo second order kinetic model. Thermodynamic parameters like negative and positive values suggest that the adsorption process is spontaneous and endothermic in nature.
Pupillary response during social emotion tasks in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Lee Juei‐Po , Chang Yi‐Hsuan , Tseng Yi‐Li , Chou Tai‐Li , Chien Yi‐Ling
Published: August 2024

Autistic individuals encounter challenges in recognizing emotional expressions of others. Pupillary response has been proposed as an indicator of arousal dysregulation or cognitive load. The pupillary response of autistic individuals during socio‐affective tasks remains unclear. This study investigated pupillary response in autistic adults when viewing emotional faces/eyes and recognizing emotions during the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET) and watching interpersonal touch scenes in the social touch task. The study included 98 participants diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and 37 typically developing controls (TD). Pupil size was measured using the Tobii X2‐30 Eye Tracker. The results showed that autistic adults had larger maximal pupil sizes, smaller minimal pupil sizes, and greater change rates of pupil size, particularly during the RMET Eyes task. Clinical correlations revealed that attention switching difficulty positively correlated with mean pupil size in TD participants, while social communication deficits positively correlated with mean pupil size in autistic participants. In conclusion, our findings suggest atypical pupillary responses in autistic adults during socio‐affective tasks, indicating heightened cognitive demand. Further investigation is necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms and their association with autistic traits.
Edge‐Enriched MoS2 as a High‐Performance Cathode for Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Niu Mengfan , Wan Falian , Xin Wenli , Zhang Lei , Xiao Xilin , Zhang Hui , Yan Zichao , Zhu Zhiqiang
Published: August 2024

Rechargeable aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) with the advantages in low cost, high safety, and environmental friendliness have broad application prospects in the field of energy storage. However, the slow diffusion kinetics of multivalent Zn2+ in materials make it hard to find a suitable cathode. Herein, HNO3 etched MoS2 with edge‐enriched feature is proved to be a promising cathode for high‐performance AZIBs. The highly exposed edges with superior electrochemical activity can not only offer more reactive sites for zinc storage but also facilitate electrolyte accessibility and shortens the ion transport pathway, thus accelerating reaction kinetics. As a result, the edge‐enriched MoS2 cathode exhibited higher specific capacity of 187 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and outstanding cycling performance (89 % capacity retention after 700 cycles at 1 A g−1).
Association of county level poverty with mortality from primary liver cancers
Authors: Ledenko Matthew , Patel Tushar
Published: August 2024

Background

The highly variable occurrence of primary liver cancers across the United States emphasize the relevance of location‐based factors. Social determinants such as income, educational attainment, housing, and other factors may contribute to regional variations in outcomes. To evaluate their impact, this study identified and analyzed clusters of high mortality from primary liver cancers and the association of location‐based determinants with mortality across the contiguous United States.

Methods

A geospatial analysis of age‐adjusted incidence and standardized mortality rates from primary liver cancers from 2000 to 2020 was performed. Local indicators of spatial association identified hot‐spots, clusters of counties with significantly higher mortality. Temporal analysis of locations with persistent poverty, defined as high (>20%) poverty for at least 30 years, was performed. Social determinants were analyzed individually or globally using composite measures such as the social vulnerability index or social deprivation index. Disparities in county level social determinants between hot‐spots and non‐hot‐spots were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

There are distinct clusters of liver cancer incidence and mortality, with hotspots in east Texas and Louisiana. The percentage of people living below the poverty line or Hispanics had a significantly higher odds ratio for being in the top quintile for mortality rates in comparison to other quintiles and were highly connected with mortality rates. Current and persistent poverty were both associated with an evolution from non‐hotspots to new hotspots of mortality. Hotspots were predominantly associated with locations with significant levels of socioeconomic vulnerability or deprivation.

Conclusions

Poverty at a county level is associated with mortality from primary liver cancer and clusters of higher mortality. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing poverty and related socio‐economic determinants as modifiable factors in public health policies and interventions aimed at reducing mortality from primary liver cancers.
Anion exchanger1 (AE1/SLC4A1) function is impaired in red blood cells from prediabetic subjects: Potential benefits of finger lime (Citrus australasica, Faustrime cultivar) juice extract
Authors: Remigante Alessia , Spinelli Sara , Gambardella Lucrezia , Straface Elisabetta , Cafeo Giovanna , Russo Marina , Caruso Daniele , Dugo Paola , Dossena Silvia , Marino Angela , Morabito Rossana
Published: August 2024

Prediabetes is a risk state that defines a high chance of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Oxidative stress mediated by hyperglycemia‐induced production of reactive species could play a crucial role in this context. In the present study, we investigated whether the anion exchange capability mediated by AE1 (SLC4A1), which is sensitive to oxidative stress, was altered in human red blood cells (RBCs) obtained from prediabetic volunteers. In addition, we assessed the precise composition of bioactive compounds and the potential benefits of finger lime juice extract (Citrus australasica, Faustrime cultivar) in counteracting oxidative stress‐related functional alterations. Human RBCs from normal and prediabetic volunteers were incubated with 50 µg/mL juice extract for 2 h at 25°C. Juice extract restored alterations of the anion exchange capability mediated by AE1 and prevented the structural rearrangements of AE1 and α/β‐spectrin in prediabetic RBCs. AE1 functional and structural alterations were not associated with an increase in lipid peroxidation or protein oxidation at the level of the plasma membrane. An increased production of intracellular ROS, which provoked the oxidation of hemoglobin to methemoglobin, both reverted by juice extract, was instead observed. Importantly, juice extract also induced a reduction in glycated hemoglobin levels in prediabetic RBCs. Finally, juice extract blunted the overactivation of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase and prevented glutathione depletion in prediabetic RBCs. These findings contribute to clarifying cellular and molecular mechanisms related to oxidative stress and glycation events that may influence RBC and systemic homeostasis in prediabetes, identify AE1 as a sensitive biomarker of RBC structural and function alterations in prediabetes and propose finger lime juice extract as a natural antioxidant for the treatment and/or prevention of the complications associated with the prediabetic condition.
Structural Stability of Mixed‐Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals in Energy Storage: The Role of Iodine Expulsion
Authors: Kumar Arun , Suhail Atif , Sagar Shukla Prem , Bag Monojit
Published: August 2024

In the pursuit of efficient optoelectronics devices, hybrid lead halide perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) have emerged as highly promising semiconductor materials due to their intriguing properties. While these materials have been used in many applications, the fundamental understanding of their behavior remains relatively unexplored, especially for the mixed halide perovskite samples. To facilitate the advancement of PQD technologies for commercial applications, it is essential to gain insights into the role of ion migration. This study delves into the fundamental aspects of ion migration in halide perovskite nanocrystals. Porous electrodes for supercapacitor application were fabricated using CsPbBr3–xIx (x=0,1,2) nanocrystals prepared via the ligand‐assisted re‐precipitation (LARP) method. Three‐electrode electrochemical measurements and several other characterizations were conducted under dark conditions to evaluate device performance and elucidate the impact of mixed halides on device kinetics and stability. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy before and after the electrochemical measurement reveals intriguing findings. Notably, the analysis uncovered the phase segregation in the metal halide perovskite nanocrystals with particular emphasis on CsPbBr2I due to its distinctive mixed‐halide behavior. The specific capacitance increases with the increasing cycles. Interestingly, as the iodide content increases, there is no selective halide expulsion as the structure collapses rapidly.
A Century of Prolactin: Emerging Perspectives as a Metabolic Regulator
Authors: Wu Tianyu , Duan Yanjie , Jiang Jiaxuan , Gu Tianwei , Zhang Pengzi , Bi Yan
Published: August 2024

Prolactin, a hormone that has been studied for almost a century, has evolved from a reproductive regulator to a key player in metabolic health. Initially identified for its lactogenic role, the impact of prolactin on glucose and lipid metabolism became evident in the 1970s, leading to a paradigm shift in our understanding. Deviations in prolactin levels, including hyperprolactinaemia and hypoprolactinaemia, have been associated with adverse effects on glucose and lipid metabolism. Mechanistically, prolactin regulates metabolic homoeostasis by maintaining islet abundance, regulating the hypothalamic energy regulatory centre, balancing adipose tissue expansion, and regulating hepatic metabolism. Given the widespread use of pharmaceutical agents that affect prolactin levels, it is important to examine prolactin‐related metabolic effects. Recently, a profound exploration of the intricate metabolic role of prolactin has been conducted, encompassing its rhythm‐dependent regulatory influence on metabolism and its correlation with cognitive impairment associated with metabolic diseases. In this review, we highlight the role of prolactin as a metabolic regulator, summarise its metabolic effects, and discuss topics related to the association between prolactin and metabolic comorbidities.
Don't ignore the middle: Distinct mnemonic functions of intermediate hippocampus
Authors: Whitley Kathryn , Briggs Sherri B. , Sharma Karan , Parent Marise B.
Published: August 2024

The dorsal region of the hippocampus (dHC) mediates many of the mnemonic functions traditionally associated with the hippocampus proper, such as spatial and episodic memory, whereas ventral hippocampus (vHC) has been extensively implicated in emotional memory and motivational processes. By contrast, the functions of the intermediate hippocampus (iHC) are far less understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate the mnemonic functions of iHC by reversibly inactivating iHC prior to testing memory in behavioral tasks dependent on the integrity of dHC, iHC, or vHC, namely, rapid place water maze, inhibitory avoidance, spontaneous alternation, and temporal ordering of odors. Given our previous findings showing that dHC and vHC are involved in mnemonic control of ingestive behavior, we also assessed the effects of iHC inactivation on sucrose intake. The results showed that pharmacological inhibition of iHC impairs rapid place water maze memory, which has been previously shown to be dependent on iHC but not dHC or vHC. iHC inactivation does not impact memory dependent on dHC (spontaneous alternation), vHC (temporal odor memory), or either dHC or vHC (inhibitory avoidance), and only modestly affects sucrose intake. These findings provide support for the involvement of iHC in mnemonic functions that are distinct from dHC and vHC and highlight the need to further advance our understanding of the functions of this hippocampal region that has been relatively understudied.
Development of a new definition of maternal near miss based on organ dysfunction in Latin America and the Caribbean: A prospective multicenter cohort study
Authors: Rojas‐Suarez Jose , Santacruz Jose , Pajaro Yasaira , Maza Fabian , de Mucio Bremen , Sosa Claudio , Serruya Suzanne , Pérez Mario , Contreras Sandra , Annicchiarico Walter , Dueñas Castell Carmelo , Salcedo Francisco , Méndez Rogelio Rafael , Escobar‐Vidarte María , López Carlos , Lavalle Oscar , Mendoza Winston , Ochoa Carlos , Moreno Amanda , Saint‐Hillaire Erika , Castro Rigoberto , Gómez Hernán , Peña Evelyn , Urroz Lucia , Quintela Violeta , Colomar Mercedes , Paternina Angel
Published: August 2024

Background

There has been debate over whether the existing World Health Organization (WHO) criteria accurately represent the severity of maternal near misses.

Objective

This study assessed the diagnostic accuracy of two WHO clinical and laboratory organ dysfunction markers for determining the best cutoff values in a Latin American setting.

Methods

A prospective multicenter cohort study was conducted in five Latin American countries. Patients with severe maternal complications were followed up from admission to discharge. Organ dysfunction was determined using clinical and laboratory data, and participants were classified according to severe maternal outcomes. This study compares the diagnostic criteria of Latin American Centre for Perinatology, Network for Adverse Maternal Outcomes (CLAP/NAMO) to WHO standards.

Results

Of the 698 women studied, 15.2% had severe maternal outcomes. Most measured variables showed significant differences between individuals with and without severe outcomes (all P‐values <0.05). Alternative cutoff values suggested by CLAP/NAMOs include pH ≤7.40, lactate ≥2.3 mmol/L, respiratory rate ≥ 24 bpm, oxygen saturation ≤ 96%, PaO2/FiO2 ≤ 342 mmHg, platelet count ≤189 × 109 × mm3, serum creatinine ≥0.8 mg/dL, and total bilirubin ≥0.67 mg/dL. No significant differences were found when comparing the diagnostic performance of the CLAP/NAMO criteria to that of the WHO standards.

Conclusion

The CLAP/NAMO values were comparable to the WHO maternal near‐miss criteria, indicating that the WHO standards might not be superior in this population. These findings suggest that maternal near‐miss thresholds can be adapted regionally, improving the identification and management of severe maternal complications in Latin America.
MR Assessment of Acute Changes of Cerebral Perfusion, Metabolism, and Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability in Response to Aerobic Exercise
Authors: Hu Yizhe , Shi Wen , Jiang Dengrong , Zhao Li , Lu Hanzhang , Wu Dan , Lin Zixuan
Published: August 2024

Background

It remains unclear how a single bout of exercise affects brain perfusion, oxygen metabolism, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Addressing this unresolved issue is essential to understand the acute changes in cerebral physiology induced by aerobic exercise.

Purpose

To dynamically monitor the acute changes in cerebral physiology subsequent to a single aerobic exercise training session using noninvasive MRI measurements.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Twenty‐three healthy participants (18–35 years, 10 females/13 males) were enrolled and divided into 10‐minute exercising (N = 10) and 20‐minute exercising (N = 13) groups.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T/Phase Contrast (PC) MRI (gradient echo), T2‐Relaxation‐Under‐Spin‐Tagging (TRUST) MRI (gradient echo EPI), Water‐Extraction‐with‐Phase‐Contrast‐Arterial‐Spin‐Tagging (WEPCAST) MRI (gradient echo EPI) and T1‐weighted magnetization‐prepared‐rapid‐acquisition‐of‐gradient‐echo (MPRAGE) (gradient echo).

Assessment

A baseline MR measurement plus four repeated MR measurements immediately after 10 or 20 minutes moderate running exercise. MR measurements included cerebral blood flow (CBF) as measured by PC MRI, venous oxygenation (Yv) and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) as assessed by TRUST MRI, water extraction fraction (E), and BBB permeability‐surface‐area product (PS) as determined by WEPCAST MRI.

Statistical Tests

The time dependence of the physiological parameters was studied with a linear mixed‐effect model. Additionally, pairwise t‐tests comparison of the physiological parameters at each time point was conducted. A P‐value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There was an initial drop (8.22 ± 2.60%) followed by a recovery in CBF after exercise, while Yv revealed a significant decrease (6.37 ± 0.92%), i.e., an increased oxygen extraction, and returned to baseline at later time points. CMRO2 showed a trend of increase (5.68 ± 3.04%) and a significant interaction between time and group. In addition, E increased significantly (3.86% ± 0.89) and returned to baseline level at later time points, while PS remained elevated (13.33 ± 4.79%).

Data Conclusion

A single bout of moderate aerobic exercise can induce acute alterations in cerebral perfusion, metabolism, and BBB permeability.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Effect of molecular weight of chitosan on quercetin‐loaded chitosan nanoparticles
Authors: Geng Feng , Zhang Mengyang , Sun Tao , Xie Jing , Gan Jianhong , Li Xiaohui , Xue Bin
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The widespread use of quercetin is limited by its instability, low solubility and poor oral bioavailability. Encapsulation of quercetin using a nanoparticle delivery system is an effective way to overcome these drawbacks.

RESULTS

The effect of the molecular weight (Mw) of chitosan (CS) (100, 200, 500 and 1000 kDa) on quercetin‐loaded chitosan nanoparticles (QCNPs) was investigated. The structure, stability, release properties and antioxidant activities of the nanoparticles (QCNP‐10, QCNP‐20, QCNP‐50 and QCNP‐100) were assessed. Particle size of QCNPs decreased and polydispersity index increased with the increasing Mw of CS. The main forces involved in the formation of QCNPs were hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction. X‐ray diffraction verified that quercetin was loaded into CS nanoparticles. The photostability and thermal stability of QCNPs increased with increasing Mw of CS. QCNP‐100 exhibited the lowest release rate in a mixture of water and anhydrous ethanol. The antioxidant activities of QCNPs were enhanced with increasing Mw of CS, and QCNP‐100 possessed the highest antioxidant activities, which might be relevant to its smallest particle size.

CONCLUSION

Overall, these results revealed that the Mw of CS affected the properties of QCNPs, and QCNP‐100 possessed the smallest particle, best stability, lowest release rate and highest antioxidant activities. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The influence of climate change and environmental concerns on participation in new voluntourism by younger generations
Authors: Kim Yelim , Kim Miseong , Lee Choong‐Ki , Reisinger Yvette
Published: August 2024

This study investigates a new type of voluntourism that focuses on younger generations' environmental contribution in the context of a global climate crisis. The study describes the adoption process of new voluntourism by applying the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) framework and examining the influence of its three innovation factors (compatibility, simplicity, and relative advantage along with the perceived risk of climate change on new voluntourism adoption attitude and behavioral intention). An online survey of 432 members of two demographic cohorts, Millennials and Generation Z, was conducted in South Korea. The results of structural equation modeling indicate that the perceived risk of climate change and DOI's innovation factors significantly affected new voluntourism adoption attitude and behavioral intention. The results confirmed that the perceived risk of climate change led to the diffusion and adoption of new voluntourism by younger generations. The theoretical and practical implications of the study's results are discussed.
Implementation and Scalability of Physical Activity Interventions Delivered Within Primary Care: A Narrative Review
Authors: Osinaike Jimi , Myers Anna , Lowe Anna , Copeland Robert J , Hardcastle Sarah J
Published: August 2024

Primary Aim

To describe the features of implementation in the setting of primary care (PC) for physical activity (PA) interventions that improved total and moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA).

Secondary Aim

To assess the scalability potential of effective PC PA interventions.

Method

A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple electronic databases to identify relevant studies published between 2012 and 2023. Implementation‐related features were extracted, and the scalability potential of effective PC PA interventions was assessed using the Intervention Scalability Tool (ISAT) as a framework.

Results

Twenty‐six studies met the inclusion criteria after screening. Analysis of the implementation‐related features revealed that effective PC PA interventions showed promising reach with a mean participation rate of 43%. Effective PC PA interventions that increased PA were mostly delivered by nurses and were underpinned by the behavioural change techniques (BCTs) of goal setting, feedback and self‐monitoring. The scalability assessment revealed that remote‐based interventions and those delivered by nurses had moderate to high scores in the scalability domains of fidelity, reach and acceptability, delivery setting and workforce, implementation infrastructure and sustainability.

Conclusion

PC PA interventions, whether delivered remotely or face‐to‐face, show promise for increasing PA, especially when incorporating BCTs like goal setting and feedback. Using the ISAT, most interventions displayed promise for implementation at scale, but further examination is needed concerning the delivery setting, implementation infrastructure and sustainability of these interventions. Remote‐based (automated PA advice and mailed instructions) PA interventions and those delivered in contact with a nurse showed high scalability potential. Further work that examines the acceptability and effectiveness of other healthcare professionals in intervention delivery would be worthwhile, and more work is needed to assess the utility and effectiveness of remote‐based PA interventions in PC.
Efficient Stabilization and Directional‐Controlled Release of Vitamin C in Disaccharide/Megasaccharide Composite Xerogels
Authors: Karoh Patinya , Okajima Maiko K. , Kaneko Tatsuo , Tree‐Udom Thapakorn
Published: August 2024

Composite xerogel films with structural orientation, controlled swelling degree, and drug‐release ability are prepared using biocompatible megamolecular liquid crystalline polysaccharide (sacran) secreted by a cyanobacterium Aphanothece sacrum. The sacran xerogel films (Sac‐XFs) are formed by drying sacran aqueous solution including vitamin C (L‐ascorbic acid, AA) and trehalose under various conditions. In X‐ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry of Sac‐XFs, diffractions or melting points of either AA or trehalose are not detected, indicating no crystal formation. Additionally, the stability of entrapped AA in Sac‐XFs is evaluated through changes in film color and percentage loss, to indicate that AA stability is enhanced by entrapment in Sac‐XFs in the presence of trehalose. Scanning electron microscopy of Sac‐XFs reveals the morphological orientation, and number of striped lines along the longitudinal axis of film edges on side views while no visible textures in top views. When Sac‐XFs are immersed in water, anisotropic swelling is observed, and anisotropy decreases with an increase in the drying temperature of the films. AA is released preferentially from the hydrogel sheet edges, indicating the direction‐controlled release. Thus, the trehalose/sacran composite xerogels offer an alternative platform for preserving and controlled‐releasing sensitive substances for fields of foods, pharmaceutics, and cosmetics.
Severity of Pain Catastrophizing and Its Associations With Cognitive Flexibility and Self‐Efficacy in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Gazik Ahmad Bavali , Vagharseyyedin Seyyed Abolfazl , Saremi Zeinab , Shafiee Fatemeh
Published: August 2024

Background

Pain catastrophizing in patients with rheumatoid arthritis exacerbates negative pain‐related outcomes, such as anxiety, depression, and pain intensity. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the severity of pain catastrophizing and the factors contributing to it among these patients. The present study aimed to assess the severity of pain catastrophizing and its association with cognitive flexibility and self‐efficacy in a sample of Iranian patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

A descriptive correlational study was conducted on 220 rheumatoid patients referred to a rheumatology clinic affiliated with Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran. The instruments used to collect data included a demographic form, the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, the Cognitive Flexibility Inventory, and the Arthritis Self‐Efficacy Scale. The data were analysed using SPSS version 24.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 53.25 ± 12.41 years, and the mean duration of their disease was 6.63 ± 3.39 years. The majority of participants, specifically 61.8%, reported high levels of pain catastrophizing. An inverse and significant correlation was found between pain catastrophizing and cognitive flexibility (p < 0.001). Likewise, pain catastrophizing exhibited an inverse and significant correlation with self‐efficacy and all its dimensions (p < 0.001). The results of the multiple linear regression analysis indicate that the final significant predictors of pain catastrophizing were cognitive flexibility (β = −0.34, p < 0.001) and self‐efficacy (β = −0.53, p < 0.001). These predictors were found to significantly explain 51% of the variance in catastrophizing.

Conclusions

Through psychosocial interventions aimed at enhancing pain self‐efficacy and cognitive flexibility, healthcare providers can hope to reduce pain catastrophizing and its adverse effects in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Familial autoimmunity and risk of developing immune thrombocytopenia and Evans syndrome
Authors: Lozano Chinga Michell M. , Bussel James B. , Fluchel Mark N. , Wilkes Jacob , Zhang Chong , Meeks Huong , Meznarich Jessica A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and Evans syndrome (ES) are manifestations of immune dysregulation. Genetic variants in immune‐related genes have been identified in patients with ITP and especially ES. We aimed to explore familial autoimmunity in patients with ITP and ES to understand possible contributions to chronicity.

Procedure

We assessed family history in two ways: via patient report for ITP and ES and by population‐based analysis using the Utah Population Database (UPDB) for ITP. A total of 266 patients with ITP and 21 patients with ES were identified via chart review, and 252 of the 266 patients with ITP were also identified in the UPDB.

Results

Chart review showed familial autoimmunity in 29/182 (15.9%) and 25/84 (29.8%) of patients with newly diagnosed+persistent (nd+p) ITP and chronic ITP (cITP), respectively, (p = .009). The UPDB analysis revealed that autoimmunity in relatives of patients with nd+pITP was higher than in relatives of controls (odds ratio [OR]: 1.69 [1.19–2.41], p = .004), but was not significantly increased in relatives of patients with cITP (OR 1.10 [0.63–1.92], p = .734). Incomplete family history in medical records likely contributed to the observed discrepancy.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that familial autoimmunity may have a stronger association with the development of ITP rather than its duration. Twelve (57.1%) patients with ES reported autoimmunity in their relatives. UPDB analysis was omitted due to the small number of patients with ES. The use of population databases offers a unique opportunity to assess familial health and may provide clues about contributors to immune dysregulation features within families.
A facile approach for enhancing mechanical resilience, and corrosion protection in epoxy coatings using bismuthene nanosheets
Authors: Meng Qingshi , Li Shuangshan , Guo Fuyuan , Demiral Murat , Han Sensen , Meng Fanze , Zhang Yanxi , Araby Sherif
Published: August 2024

This study presents novel mechanochemical methods for the synthesis and chemical modification of bismuthene nanosheets (BINS) using a high‐speed blender and planetary ball milling. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements confirmed successful exfoliation of 1.5‐nm BINS. Epoxy/BINS nanocomposites exhibited enhanced mechanical properties, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. Chemical modification via ball milling improved the interface and dispersion of BINS within the epoxy matrix, leading to significant enhancements in mechanical performance and chemical resistance. Compared to neat epoxy, at 0.75 vol% m‐BINS, Young's modulus, impact strength and fracture toughness KIC were respectively enhanced by 30%, 88.6%, and 144.4% while these increments were 10%, 55.7%, and 97.8% for pristine BINS‐based epoxy nanocomposite. A 3D finite element model of the impact test of the nanocomposite was developed to predict its behavior under high‐strain rate loadings; the numerical model showed high agreement with experimental measurements. Epoxy/m‐BINS nanocomposites demonstrated exceptional chemical resistance, attributed to the small lateral dimensions of m‐BINS, which fill the spaces between cross‐linked epoxy molecules and uniformly distribute within the matrix. These findings highlight the crucial role of interface and dispersion in defining the mechanical properties of nanocomposites. Overall, this study provides a facile and scalable method for synthesizing and modifying bismuthene, showcasing its potential for developing functional polymer nanocomposites.

Highlights

Bismuthene nanosheets & modified BINS (m‐BINS) are prepared by eco‐friendly method.

m‐BINS is ~1.5 nm thick and ~0.5 μm wide.

m‐BINS shows good dispersion and strong interface adhesion within epoxy matrix.

Impact strength and KIC of epoxy/m‐BINS nanocomposite are enhanced by 88.6% and 144.4%.

Numerical model for impact strength is developed to predict behavior at high‐strain rate.
Microgels based on thermo‐responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) as sorbent of bisphenol A and parabens in water
Authors: Leite Daiani C. , Sampaio Naiara M. F. M. , de Oliveira Tiago E. , Riegel‐Vidotti Izabel C. , da Silva Bruno J. G.
Published: August 2024

Smart microgels can be used as sorbents, possessing high surface area and rapid stimuli‐responsiveness. A series of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAM) and pNIPAM‐co‐starch nanoparticles (pNIPAM‐co‐SNPs) thermo‐responsive microgels were synthesized, presenting different hydrophilic/hydrophobic behavior according to the composition. The adsorption studies were carried out for methylparaben (MPB), ethylparaben (EPB), propylparaben (PPB), butylparaben (BPB), and bisphenol A (BPA), and the extraction and desorption efficiency were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography and spectrophotometric detection (HPLC‐UV). The effect of microgel phase transition according to the temperature and the copolymerization with SNPs in each sorptive step was investigated. The extraction of less polar compounds (BPA, PPB, and BPB) above the volume phase transition temperature (VPTT) was favored, driven by a predominant hydrophobic interaction. According to microgel composition, the desorption capacity as a function of temperature can be influenced by hydrophilic interactions and water competition. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and binding free energy calculations were performed to provide theoretical evidence about binding energies between pNIPAM and BPA, which experimentally showed the best extraction efficiency results. These findings may provide a strategy for designing high‐performance sorptive phases that could remove hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds from water and a hypothesis about the driving forces of such processes.
Evaluation of intra‐ and inter‐individual variations in plasma belimumab concentrations in adult patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Yoshijima Chisato , Suzuki Yosuke , Tanaka Ryota , Ono Hiroyuki , Oda Ayako , Ozaki Takashi , Shibata Hirotaka , Itoh Hiroki , Ohno Keiko
Published: August 2024

In this study, plasma belimumab concentrations were measured over the course of treatment in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients on belimumab therapy, and intra‐ and interindividual variations in plasma belimumab concentration were evaluated. A single‐center prospective study was conducted at Oita University Hospital to evaluate trough plasma concentrations over the course of treatment in 13 SLE patients treated with intravenous belimumab. Plasma belimumab concentrations were measured by a validated ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method. The median age of the patients was 40 (interquartile range: 35–51) years and the median weight was 51.8 (47.0–58.1) kg. A mean of 9.4 (range: 1–13) blood samples was collected per patient at routine visits. The mean (± SD) plasma belimumab concentration was 33.4 ± 11.9 μg/mL in the patient with the lowest concentration and 170.0 ± 16.6 μg/mL in the patient with the highest concentration, indicating a 5‐fold difference between patients. On the other hand, the within‐patient coefficient of variation ranged from 7.1% to 35.7%, showing no large variations. No significant correlation was observed between plasma belimumab concentration and belimumab dose (mg/kg) (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient = 0.22, p = .54). Examinations of trough plasma belimumab concentrations over the course of treatment in patients with SLE showed small intraindividual variation but large interindividual variation. Plasma belimumab trough concentration varied widely among patients administered the approved dose.
Corporate board diversity, environmental compliance, and occupational health and safety disclosure for achieving sustainable development goals in an emerging economy
Authors: Jibril Rabiu Saminu , Isa Muhammad Aminu
Published: August 2024

The study is a pioneer in investigating how board diversity affects occupational health and safety disclosure in Nigeria by the selected nonfinancial companies for 7 years (2016–2022). It provides empirical proof of how environmental compliance affects the association between board diversity and occupational health and safety disclosure in ensuring the attainment of sustainable development goals. The study obtained data from a sample of 83 listed nonfinancial firms, and a content analysis technique was employed to compute emissions disclosure indexes using global reporting initiatives standards from the sampled firms. The study used the generalized method of moments (GMMs) econometric model to evaluate the direct effects of board diversity on firm occupational health and safety disclosure. Panels corrected standard errors (HPCSEs) and feasible least squares (FGLSs) regressions were used to establish the robustness of the GMM regression. The results found that board gender and board nationality have positive and significant associations with occupational health and safety disclosure. The study documented that interactions between board diversity and occupational health and safety disclosure have influenced the association between board gender, board nationality, board expertise and occupational health and safety disclosure. The findings could help policymakers and regulators in revising policies and regulations that can improve the ability of such attributes to make firms improve the level of reporting information. This is the first study that provides empirical evidence on how board gender and board nationality influence occupational health and safety disclosure and their interaction with environmental compliance improves sustainability.
Reliable Operation in High‐Mobility Indium Oxide Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Ghediya Prashant R. , Magari Yusaku , Sadahira Hikaru , Endo Takashi , Furuta Mamoru , Zhang Yuqiao , Matsuo Yasutaka , Ohta Hiromichi
Published: August 2024

Transparent oxide semiconductors (TOSs) based thin‐film transistors (TFTs) that exhibit higher field effect mobility (µFE) are highly required toward the realization of next‐generation displays. Among numerous types of TOS‐TFTs, In2O3‐based TFTs are the front‐running candidate because they exhibit the highest µFE ≈100 cm2 V−1 s−1. However, the device operation of In2O3 TFTs is unreliable; a large voltage shift occurs especially when negative gate bias is applied due to adsorption/desorption of gas molecules. Although passivation of the TFTs is used to overcome such instability, previously proposed passivation materials do not improve the reliability. Here, it is shown that the In2O3 TFTs passivated with Y2O3 and Er2O3 films are highly reliable and do not show threshold voltage shifts when applying gate bias. Positive and negative gate bias is applied to the In2O3 TFTs passivated with various insulating oxides and found that only the In2O3 TFTs passivated with Y2O3 and Er2O3 films do not exhibit threshold voltage shifts. It is observed that only the Y2O3 grew heteroepitaxially on the In2O3 crystal. This is the origin of the high reliability of the In2O3 TFTs passivated with Y2O3 and Er2O3 films. This finding accelerates the development of next‐generation displays using high‐mobility In2O3 TFTs.
Heavy metal ions monitoring using molecular ligands: Optical properties and analytical performances
Authors: Mohan Brij , Kadiyan Ritika , Virender  , Modi Krunal , Singh Gurjaspreet , Garazade Ismayil M. , Gupta Rakesh Kumar , Banat Fawzi , Solovev Alexander A.
Published: August 2024

Heavy metal ions are resistant to degradation and pollute a wide range of natural resources found in the environment, such as water. Detecting heavy metals is crucial for monitoring environmental safety and preventing the harmful effects of metal ion exposure. Therefore, this study has focused on Schiff‐base chemosensors, due to their efficacy in detecting metal ions, owing to their simplicity, cost‐effectiveness, rapid photophysical response, greater sensitivity, minimum detection limit, and applicability to the environmental and medical domains. Such chemosensors are crucial for ensuring public health and safety because they offer a feasible and efficient way to monitor concentrations of heavy metals. This review focuses on using spectroscopic chemosensors to detect Pb2+, Cd2+, and Hg2+ ions. The discussion includes the mechanisms and signal change properties of these chemosensors, as well as critical factors such as the limit of detection, binding stoichiometry ratio, association constant, appropriate pH, and structure. The article concludes with key findings and future perspectives, emphasizing the crucial role of metal ion monitoring devices in protecting the environment and human health.
Solvent extraction and trace determination of cadmium(II) by spectrophotometry and ICP‐MS
Authors: Jadvani Janvi , Sharma Chandramauly , Joshi Meet
Published: August 2024

A novel method for the simple, selective separation and trace determination of cadmium is presented. Cadmium is extracted quantitatively at a pH value of 9.5 using 7‐hydroxy‐4‐methylcoumarin hydroxyl amine (HMCHA) in dichloromethane, exhibiting maximum absorbance at 400 nm with a molar absorptivity (ε) of 5.0 × 104 L mol−1 cm−1 and conforming to Beer's law within the concentration range of 0.1 to 5.0 ppm. The Cd‐HMCHA complex displays a characteristic yellowish‐pink coloration. Determination of cadmium is accomplished via spectrophotometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, resulting in a sensitivity enhancement of 20‐fold which has a limit of detection of 1.950 ppb and a limit of quantification of 5.850 ppb. The extraction of cadmium is not affected by other ions, showing not any interference. The efficacy of this method is validated through the analysis of cadmium in National Bureau of Standard Samples.