bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of Two Sulfide Compounds in Oleo–Gum‐Resin Supplement of Ferula foetida Using qH NMR and GC–MS Methods
Authors: Eghbali Samira , Iranshahi Mehrdad , Rezaee Ramin , Farhadi Faegheh
Published: October 2024

Asafoetida is an oleo–gum‐resin mainly obtained from Ferula foetida in eastern Iran, which is employed for the treatment of stomachaches, acid reflux, nervous system disorders and respiratory diseases. Asafoetida has attracted the attention of researchers due to its sulfide compounds and their proven effects on respiratory illnesses. In this study, the shelf stability of supplement of F. foetida's oleo–gum‐resin by quantifying two key sulfide compounds including E/Z‐sec‐butyl propenyl disulfane and E/Z‐(methylthio)propyl 1‐propenyl disulfane was evaluated by 1H NMR (qH NMR) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The similar results were obtained in both qH NMR and GC–MS methods. The qH NMR method showed good linearity in the ranges of 2–12 mg/mL for E/Z‐sec‐butyl propenyl disulfane and 2.2–17 mg/mL for E/Z‐(methylthio) propyl 1‐propenyl disulfane with a correlation coefficient of 0.99 and acceptable stability (RSD% ≤ 2.72%) for the quantification of the compounds. Therefore, despite the volatility of disulfide compounds and according to the results, the qH NMR method could be considered adequate method for quantifying these compounds in supplements containing the volatile components that requires extra extraction steps before analyses by other method.
Intermediate and secondary school food environment in New Zealand: Food and drink menu assessment
Authors: Green Shannon , Ali Ajmol , Wham Carol
Published: October 2024

Issue Addressed

Nutrition‐related obesity is rising among adolescents in New Zealand with an estimated one in eight children being obese. The school environment is an ideal community setting for encouraging a healthy lifestyle as schools contain a diverse population and involve students and parents. However, the healthiness of food available to intermediate and secondary school students (Years 7–13) is unknown. This study assessed how food and drink menus from schools align with policy guidelines for healthy school food environments.

Methods

A convenience sample of NZ schools' (years 7–13; ages 10–19) menus was collected in 2020. Menus were classified using traffic light criteria. A toolkit was developed by three nutritionists and one dietitian (with trained staff support) to aid with menu classification. Menu quality was evaluated against school characteristics and policy use.

Results

Of the school menus assessed (n = 60), 3.3% met the recommendation for the provision of 75% ‘green’ items. ‘Red’ items were the main contributors (mean = 53.6%). Schools with high socio‐economic status (deciles 8–10; 14.3%; p < 0.05) and small school size (<749 students; 14.1%; p < 0.025) were associated with a higher proportion of ‘green’ items. Community (19.3%) and in‐house (25.9%) food providers provided a lower percentage of ‘amber’ items than school providers (39.3%; p < 0.001). In‐house providers (64.6%) had a greater percentage of ‘red’ items than school providers (48.2%; p = 0.017).

Conclusion

Food available in schools (Years 7–13) tends to be unhealthy. A national nutrition policy could improve the school food environment, especially in schools with large populations and low socio‐economic status.

So What?

School demographics have been associated with menu quality but further research within these schools is needed to identify the gaps to improve equitable outcomes within school food environments.
Strain‐induced morphology evolution and charge transport in conjugated polymer films
Authors: Ding Zicheng , Zhao Kui , Han Yanchun
Published: October 2024

Stretchable conjugated polymer films are pivotal in flexible and wearable electronics. Despite significant advancements in film stretchability through molecular engineering and multicomponent blending, these conjugated polymer films often exhibit limited elastic ranges and reduced carrier mobilities under large strain or after cyclic stretching. These limitations hinder their application in wearable electronics. Therefore, it is imperative to reveal the mechanical fatigue mechanisms and incorporate multiple strain energy dissipation strategies to enhance elastic deformation and electrical performance of stretched conjugated polymer films. In this review, we begin by introducing the typical mechanical behaviors of conjugated polymer films. Subsequently, we discuss the multiscale structural evolution under various stretching conditions based on both in‐situ and ex‐situ characterizations. This analysis is further related to the diverse strain energy dissipation mechanisms. We next establish the correlation between strain‐induced microstructure and the electrical performance of stretched conjugated polymer films. After that, we propose to develop highly elastic conjugated polymer films by constructing stable crosslinks and promoting polymer dynamics in low‐crystalline polymer films. Finally, we highlight the future opportunities for high‐performance and mechanically stable devices based on stretchable conjugated polymer films.
Trends in operative vaginal delivery rates: A 20‐year retrospective analysis in Ireland
Authors: Kane D. , Daly R. , Tunney E. , Fullston E. , Gryson R. , Kent E. , Flood K. , Malone F.
Published: October 2024

Synopsis

Forceps delivery rates are increasing significantly, with a significant decrease in vacuum‐assisted delivery, with no change in neonatal morbidity or mortality.
Leveraging Broad‐Spectrum Fluorescence Data and Machine Learning for High‐Accuracy Bacterial Species Identification
Authors: Mito Daisuke , Okihara Shin‐ichiro , Kurita Masakazu , Hatayama Nami , Yoshino Yusuke , Watanabe Yoshinobu , Ishii Katsuhiro
Published: October 2024

Rapid and accurate identification of bacterial species is essential for the effective treatment of infectious diseases and suppression of antibiotic‐resistant strains. The unique autofluorescence properties of bacterial cells are exploited for rapid and cost‐effective identification that is suitable for point‐of‐care applications. Fluorescence spectroscopy is combined with machine learning to improve the diagnostic accuracy. Good training data for machine learning can be obtained to achieve the same diagnostic accuracy for bacterial species as when each wavelength is measured in detail over a broad spectral width. Experiments were performed testing 14 bacterial strains. The excitation‐emission matrix was analyzed, and Bayesian optimization was used to identify the most effective combinations of wavelengths. The results showed that fluorescence spectra using three specific excitation light regions or excitation spectra using two broad fluorescence detection regions could be used as supervised data to realize diagnostic accuracy comparable to that obtained with more complex instruments.
Basic understanding of Cu‐SSZ‐13 in catalyzing low‐temperature selective catalytic reduction of NOx by ammonia
Authors: Wang Yujie , Zhu Tao , Zhao Yunzhe , Hao Xiaobin
Published: October 2024

The development of Cu‐SSZ‐13 represents a significant breakthrough in the field of NOx removal from mobile exhaust, demonstrating excellent selective catalytic reduction (SCR) activity across a broad temperature range (200–500°C). However, the limited reactivity of Cu‐SSZ‐13 at temperatures below 200°C poses a challenge for the removal of NOx emitted during vehicle cold starts. To stimulate new efforts to enhance low‐temperature SCR performance, this review provides a fundamental understanding of the nature of Cu‐SSZ‐13 in catalyzing the SCR reaction. The structures, coordination environments, and oxidation states of Cu2+ during the SCR reaction, as well as the redox cycle pathway of Cu2+ ions and the characteristics of the rate‐determining step, were discussed. Based on these insights, several strategies for improving the low‐temperature activity of Cu‐SSZ‐13 are proposed. Finally, the review offers a perspective on the future of low‐temperature SCR of NOx over Cu‐SSZ‐13.
Pharmacological Management of Sleep–Wake Disturbances in Delirium
Authors: Levinsohn Erik A. , Radhakrishnan Varsha , Euting Haley , Kaplan Gary B.
Published: October 2024

Delirium is a heterogeneous syndrome primarily characterized by fluctuations in attention and awareness. Sleep–wake disturbances are a common and significant feature of delirium and can manifest as circadian rhythm inversion, sleep fragmentation, and reduced rapid eye movement (REM) and slow‐wave sleep. Some literature suggests that the relationship between sleep disruption and delirium is reciprocal wherein the two reinforce one another and may share an underlying etiology. As there are no FDA‐approved medications for delirium or delirium‐related sleep disturbances, management is primarily focused on addressing underlying medical concerns and promoting physiologic circadian patterns with non‐pharmacological behavioral interventions. In practice, however, medications are often used, albeit with limited evidence to support their use. This literature review explores the pharmacology and pharmacokinetics of several medications with literature investigating their use in delirium: melatonin, ramelteon, dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs), and dexmedetomidine. Current evidence suggests a possible benefit of ramelteon or melatonin, dexmedetomidine for patients in the ICU setting, and DORAs as therapeutic options for the re‐regulation of sleep–wake cycle disruption in delirium. We discuss pertinent pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic factors that may influence clinical decision‐making regarding these interventions.
An update on autophagy disorders
Authors: Dafsari Hormos Salimi , Martinelli Diego , Saffari Afshin , Ebrahimi‐Fakhari Darius , Fanto Manolis , Dionisi‐Vici Carlo , Jungbluth Heinz
Published: October 2024

Macroautophagy is a highly conserved cellular pathway for the degradation and recycling of defective cargo including proteins, organelles, and macromolecular complexes. As autophagy is particularly relevant for cellular homeostasis in post‐mitotic tissues, congenital disorders of autophagy, due to monogenic defects in key autophagy genes, share a common “clinical signature” including neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and neuromuscular features, as well as variable abnormalities of the eyes, skin, heart, bones, immune cells, and other organ systems, depending on the expression pattern and the specific function of the defective proteins. Since the clinical and genetic resolution of EPG5‐related Vici syndrome, the paradigmatic congenital disorder of autophagy, the widespread use of massively parallel sequencing has resulted in the identification of a growing number of autophagy‐associated disease genes, encoding members of the core autophagy machinery as well as related proteins. Recently identified monogenic disorders linking selective autophagy, vesicular trafficking, and other pathways have further expanded the molecular and phenotypical spectrum of congenital disorders of autophagy as a clinical disease spectrum. Moreover, significant advances in basic research have enhanced the understanding of the underlying pathophysiology as a basis for therapy development. Here, we review (i) autophagy in the context of other intracellular trafficking pathways; (ii) the main congenital disorders of autophagy and their typical clinico‐pathological signatures; and (iii) the recommended primary health surveillance in monogenic disorders of autophagy based on available evidence. We further discuss recently identified molecular mechanisms that inform the current understanding of autophagy in health and disease, as well as perspectives on future therapeutic approaches.
The Sansure® Human Papillomavirus DNA Diagnostic Kit offers excellent reproducibility performance for the detection of high‐risk HPV
Authors: Prétet Jean‐Luc , Baraquin Alice , Chung Pui Yan Jenny , Puget Line , Dhillon Sharonjit K. , Tkachenka Yuliya , Jacquot Killian , Lepiller Quentin , Broeck Davy Vanden , Arbyn Marc
Published: October 2024

Cervical cancer screening is a cornerstone of cervical cancer elimination. Detection of high‐risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) is recommended as the first step in screening provided that the assay used has been adequately validated. The Sansure® Human Papillomavirus DNA Diagnostic Kit is a new assay designed to detect HPV16, HPV18 and 13 other HPV in aggregate. The study aimed to evaluate the intra‐ and interlaboratory reproducibility of the assay according to international guidelines. Five hundred and fifty cervical residual cell samples from women attending cervical cancer screening were selected from the biobank of the HPV National Reference Centre in Belgium and used in this study. After DNA extraction, HPV was tested using the Sansure® Human Papillomavirus DNA Diagnostic Kit. The lower 95% confidence limit around the general reproducibility of this assay should be greater than or equal to 87%, with κ ≥ 0.50. Five hundred and thirty‐three samples had valid results. The Sansure® Human Papillomavirus DNA Diagnostic Kit demonstrated an excellent intra‐laboratory reproducibility of 93.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 91.4–95.7, κ = 0.85). The interlaboratory reproducibility was 93.4 (95% CI: 91.0–95.4, κ = 0.84). Intra and interlaboratory reproducibility were also excellent at the genotype level. Excluding HPV53 single infection samples from the analyses also resulted in excellent agreement. These data show that the Sansure® Human Papillomavirus DNA Diagnostic Kit is highly reproducible.
Macrophages can transmit coxsackievirus B4 to pancreatic cells and can impair these cells
Authors: Vergez Inès , Nekoua Magloire Pandoua , Arbrandt Gustav , Westman Jacob , Alidjinou Enagnon Kazali , Hober Didier
Published: October 2024

Macrophages are suspected to be involved in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes. The role of macrophages in the transmission of coxsackievirus B4 (CVB4) to pancreatic cells and in the alteration of these cells was investigated. Human monocytes isolated from peripheral blood were differentiated into macrophages with M‐CSF (M‐CSF macrophages) or GM‐CSF (GM‐CSF macrophages). M‐CSF macrophages were inoculated with CVB4. M‐CSF and GM‐CSF macrophages were activated with lipopolysaccharide and interferon (IFN)‐γ. Human pancreatic beta cells 1.1B4 were inoculated with CVB4 derived from M‐CSF macrophages or were cocultured with CVB4‐infected M‐CSF macrophages. The antiviral activity of synthetic molecules in macrophage cultures was evaluated. Activated macrophages were cocultured with CVB4‐persistently infected 1.1B4 cells, and the specific lysis of these cells was determined. Our study shows that CVB4 can infect M‐CSF macrophages, leading to the release of interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α and later IFN‐α. M‐CSF macrophage‐derived CVB4 can infect 1.1B4 cells, which were then altered; however, when these cells were cultured in medium containing agarose, cell layers were not altered. Fluoxetine and CUR‐N373 can inhibit CVB4 replication in macrophage cultures. Supernatants of activated M‐CSF and GM‐CSF macrophage cultures induced lysis of CVB4‐persistently infected 1.1B4 cells. The cytolytic activity of activated GM‐CSF macrophages was higher towards CVB4‐persistently infected 1.1B4 cells than mock‐infected 1.1B4 cells. In conclusion, macrophages may play a role in CVB4 infection of pancreatic cells, and are capable of inducing lysis of infected pancreatic cells.
Male and female human papilloma virus infection and assisted reproductive technology outcomes: A comprehensive assessment from prevalence in semen to obstetric outcomes
Authors: Carullo Giorgia , Uceda Renteria Sara , Basili Ludovica , Marinello Davide , Di Stefano Giorgia , Mondini Irene , Casalechi Maíra , Volpi Mattia , Noli Stefania , Valzano Antonia , Callegaro Annapaola , Vercellini Paolo , Somigliana Edgardo , Reschini Marco , Viganò Paola
Published: October 2024

Infertility, affecting approximately 16% of the global population, has led to increased reliance on reproductive medicine. The impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in one or both partners on outcomes of Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART) remains unclear. This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate prevalence and effects of HPV infection in subjects and couples candidates to ART. A total of n = 510 men and n = 246 women were included and n = 145 couples (n = 290 individuals) had both partners enrolled in the study. The HPV semen infection rate was 17% (95% CI: 14–20) with HPV‐42, HPV‐16, HPV‐53 and HPV‐51 as the most frequently detected genotypes. In women, 26% (95% CI: 21–32) tested HPV‐positive in cervical swabs. In 6% (95% CI: 3–11) of the couples, both partners were positive but only three couples shared the same genotypes (HPV‐16; HPV‐39, HPV‐51, and HPV‐42; HPV‐31). Follicular fluids were positive in 20% (95% CI: 11–33) of samples, showing genotype discrepancies with cervical tests. Semen treatment could not completely eliminate the virus in positive samples but reduced the positivity to one‐third. No significant differences in semen and embryological variables, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates, neonatal and obstetrics outcomes were observed in subjects with positivity in semen or cervix compared to respective negative groups. Cumulative live birth rates per oocyte retrieval in couples where both partners were negative or both were positive did not differ, being 37% (95% CI: 28%–47%) and 44% (95% CI: 19–73), respectively. In conclusion, HPV testing should not be considered a prerequisite for accessing ART treatments. Robust inferences for natural fertility cannot be made using our findings, as the ART setting does not fully reflect natural conditions.
The bright and dark side of metaverse marketing
Authors: Lim Weng Marc , Bansal Sanchita , Nangia Priya , Singh Shifali
Published: October 2024

The metaverse is emerging from the amalgamation of augmented and virtual reality. Given the novelty and recency of the metaverse and its potential implications for marketing, this study aims to (i) explore how marketing could manifest and evolve in the metaverse and how consumer behavior may be influenced (what) by (ii) engaging in a systematic literature review focusing on the positives and negatives of the metaverse (how), so that (iii) marketers can plan for, progress in, and prosper from informed metaverse marketing strategies (so what). The study sheds light on the metaverse and its impact on marketing through an integrative framework that highlights the bright and dark side of the metaverse based on six key themes: increased digital innovation and transformation, new marketing possibilities, consumers’ interest in the metaverse, threatened digital privacy and legal challenges, health concerns, and sustainability issues. The study also presents 10 prominent cases of metaverse marketing in the real world to enrich and support the findings. The study concludes by outlining the directions for the future of metaverse marketing.
Growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of Northern Finncattle steers compared to Holstein steers offered grass silage‐grain‐based ration
Authors: Keto Liisa , Manni Katariina , Tuomivaara Anne , Soppela Päivi , Huuskonen Arto
Published: October 2024

Background

Finnish beef production is largely based on dairy breeds. Eastern Finncattle, Western Finncattle, and Northern Finncattle (NFC) are native breeds, whereas Holstein (HO) and Nordic Red are the most important commercial dairy breeds. The NFC has been the closest to extinction among Finnish native cattle breeds. The objective of the experiment was to provide data on meat quality of NFC compared to HO. To our knowledge no previously published scientific data about the meat quality traits of NFC is available.

Results

The targeted slaughter age was 600 days for both NFC and HO. The carcass gain of the HO steers was 60% higher compared to NFC steers. No breed differences in dressing proportion, carcass conformation, or carcass fat score were observed. Breed had no effect on the pH, color, drip loss, chemical composition, shear force value, or sensory tenderness of the longissimus lumborum muscle. However, beef flavor of the NFC steers was evaluated 7% better compared to the HO steers. In addition, the longissimus lumborum muscle of the NFC steers tended to be juicier than that of the HO steers.

Conclusions

Only little variability in meat quality traits was observed between the breeds. However, NFC requires a longer growing period than HO when targeting the same carcass weight. To promote the use of the NFC in beef production, it is necessary to find other than economic production efficiency features, which would provide added value for premium meat quality to compensate the lower production efficiency.
Macrokinetics of ammonium sulfite oxidation inhibited by sodium thiosulfate in wet ammonium flue gas desulfurization
Authors: Peng Jian , Yao Wen , Lian Peichao
Published: October 2024

The oxidation of ammonium sulfite must be inhibited to improve the economy and cycle performance of the ammonia flue gas desulfurization process. A stirred bubbling reactor was used to investigate the macrokinetics of oxidation inhibition of ammonium sulfite by sodium thiosulfate in wet ammonia desulfurization. The effects of initial concentration, Na2S2O3 concentration, pH value, gas flow rate, and temperature on the oxidation rate were discussed. The results show that the apparent activation energy of the reaction is 37.3 kJ/mol. The macrokinetics equation of sodium thiosulfate inhibiting sulfite oxidation in the ammonia desulfurization process was established. Combined with the kinetic model, it is inferred that the rate of sodium thiosulfate inhibiting ammonium sulfite oxidation is controlled by the intrinsic chemical reaction. The results can provide a reference for the regeneration of ammonium sulfite in the wet ammonia desulfurization process.
Outcomes of Surgical Repair of Adult Naso‐Orbital‐Ethmoid Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Conti Keith R. , Bhat Akash M. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Rohloff Rhonda , Keeler Jarrod A.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Adult naso‐orbital‐ethmoid (NOE) fractures are estimated to account for 5% of all adult facial fractures without published consensus on management. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the available literature regarding the treatment and outcomes of adult naso‐orbital‐ethmoid fractures.

Data Sources

Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, databases were searched from inception through July 25, 2024 for studies pertaining to the treatment of NOE fractures. Measures of interest included patient demographics, associated fractures, type of intervention, and complications.

Results

A total of 16 studies were included for meta‐analysis, consisting of 459 patients. The patients included in the analysis had a mean age of 30.6 years (95% CI: 26.9–34.3 years) with a male‐to‐female gender ratio of 2.7:1. Operative intervention, specifically open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) (90.1%; 95: CI: 76.6–98.1%), was the most commonly performed management. Closed reduction has been reported for all three types. The most frequently reported complications included nasolacrimal duct obstruction (38.6%; 95% CI: 10.6–71.7%), postoperative epiphora (24.9%; 95% CI: 6.4–50.4%), and telecanthus (20.9%; 95% CI: 1.7–53.5%).

Conclusions

Surgical intervention can be considered for all NOE types. Despite surgical intervention, NOE fractures remain difficult to treat, and inadequate repair may result in complications. Laryngoscope, 135:991–999, 2025
Mid‐Term Effects of Postfire Mulching With Straw or Wood Chips on Soil Erosion in Semi‐Arid Forests
Authors: Plaza‐Álvarez Pedro Antonio , Lucas‐Borja Manuel Esteban , Carmona‐Yáñez María Dolores , Candel‐Pérez David , Zema Demetrio Antonio
Published: October 2024

Soil mulching has been studied as a postfire management action to reduce soil erosion in several forest environments. Less research exists about the effectiveness of mulching with straw and wood chips beyond the first year after a wildfire on sites with different slopes. To fill this gap, this study has measured soil erosion in three burned sites (untreated soils, and soils mulched using wheat straw or pine wood chips) throughout a 2.5‐year observation period in a forest of Castilla‐La Mancha (Central Eastern Spain). Soil condition and slope (gentle, < 32%, gentle vs. steep, > 38%, slopes) significantly influenced erosion, which, however, was of low entity due to the relatively low rainfall erosivity. Mulching was generally effective after the most intense events (maximum 30‐min rainfall intensity over 15 mm/h). On the gentle hillslopes, mulch application did not reduce postfire soil loss compared with the untreated sites. In contrast, on the steep slopes, the effectiveness of soil mulching was significant for the two most intense rainfall events (−30% of soil loss in plots treated with wheat straw compared with the burned and untreated sites). The cumulated soil loss significantly decreased on the treated sites (−40%) only when wheat straw was used. On steep slopes, the anti‐erosive effects of mulching were almost durable, since the mulch covered more than one‐third of the plot areas until the end of the monitoring period. These results help land managers adopt the most effective measures of postfire management in semi‐arid forests affected by severe wildfires.
Suppressed Ion Migration in Tin Halide Perovskites for Stable X‐Ray Detectors with Low Dark Current Drift
Authors: Wang Xu , Bian Yangshuang , Wang Hao , Wang Junfang , Liu Tianhua , Xiao Hongbin , Guo Yunlong , Wei Wenjuan , Yang Yang (Michael) , Meng Xiangyue
Published: October 2024

Ion migration is a major factor affecting the operational stability of perovskite X‐ray detectors, especially under the necessary high working bias. To address this issue, lead‐free tin halide perovskites (FASnI3) being pioneered with the robust Sn─I bond for X‐ray detection. It is observed that the incorporation of propylamine hydroiodide (PAI) to FASnI3‐PAI films can increase activation energy for ion migration (752.18 meV), thereby enhancing the operational stability of X‐ray detectors. The devices based on FASnI3‐PAI demonstrate a significant reduction in dark current drift (1.14 × 10−16 A cm−1 V−1 s−1), with values two orders of magnitude lower than those observed in lead halide perovskites (2.40 × 10−14 A cm−1 V−1 s−1). Moreover, the FASnI3‐PAI films exhibit enhanced film crystallinity, reduced trap density, and improved mobility‐lifetime product, resulting in a high sensitivity of 5535 µC Gyair−1 cm−2 and an ultralow detection limit of 7.95 nGyair s−1. Significantly, high‐contrast X‐ray imaging has also been successfully achieved.
Molecules in Motion: Unravelling the Dynamics of Vascularization Control in Tissue Engineering.
Authors: Rodrigues Francisco A. P. , Oliveira Cláudia S. , Sá Simone C. , Tavaria Freni K. , Lee Sang Jin , Oliveira Ana L. , Costa João B.
Published: October 2024

Significant progress has been made in tissue engineering (TE), aiming at providing personalized solutions and overcoming the current limitations of traditional tissue and organ transplantation. 3D bioprinting has emerged as a transformative technology in the field, able to mimic key properties of the natural architecture of the native tissues. However, most successes in the area are still limited to avascular or thin tissues due to the difficulties in controlling the vascularization of the engineered tissues. To address this issue, several molecules, biomaterials, and cells with pro‐ and anti‐angiogenic potential have been intensively investigated. Furthermore, different bioreactors capable to provide a dynamic environment for in vitro vascularization control have been also explored. The present review summarizes the main molecules and TE strategies used to promote and inhibit vascularization in TE, as well as the techniques used to deliver them. Additionally, it also discusses the current challenges in 3D bioprinting and in tissue maturation to control in vitro/in vivo vascularization. Currently, this field of investigation is of utmost importance and may open doors for the design and development of more precise and controlled vascularization strategies in TE.
CO2‐Responsive Copolymers for Membrane Applications, Synthesis, and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Pashayev Emil , Georgopanos Prokopios
Published: October 2024

The urgent need to mitigate climate change has spurred research into innovative carbon dioxide (CO2) capture materials. In this study, the design and synthesis of CO2‐responsive diblock copolymers, poly (N‐[3‐(dimethylamino)propyl]‐acrylamide)‐b‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PDMAPAm‐b‐PMMA) are focused on via a two‐step reversible addition−fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization as well as the application of the synthesized diblock copolymer as a membrane for CO2 capture. The resulting diblock copolymer possesses distinct blocks with varying properties. The poly (N‐[3‐(dimethylamino)propyl]‐acrylamide) (PDMAPAm) block provides CO2‐responsive behavior, while the poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) block contributes to mechanical stability. The gas transport properties of the fabricated thin‐film composite membrane made of PDMAPAm‐b‐PMMA are measured. It is determined that the copolymer exhibits dual responsiveness towards CO2 and can be tailored for use in fabrication of membranes for direct air capture (DAC).
Thermal Conductivity of Polymers: A Simple Matter Where Complexity Matters
Authors: Mukherji Debashish
Published: October 2024

Thermal conductivity coefficient κ measures the ability of a material to conduct a heat current. In particular, κ is an important property that often dictates the usefulness of a material over a wide range of environmental conditions. For example, while a low κ is desirable for the thermoelectric applications, a large κ is needed when a material is used under the high temperature conditions. These materials range from common crystals to commodity amorphous polymers. The latter is of particular importance because of their use in designing light weight high performance functional materials. In this context, however, one of the major limitations of the amorphous polymers is their low κ, reaching a maximum value of ≈0.4 W/Km that is 2–3 orders of magnitude smaller than the standard crystals. Moreover, when energy is predominantly transferred through the bonded connections, κ ⩾ 100 W/Km. Recently, extensive efforts have been devoted to attain a tunability in κ via macromolecular engineering. In this work, an overview of the recent results on the κ behavior in polymers and polymeric solids is presented. In particular, computational and theoretical results are discussed within the context of complimentary experiments. Future directions are also highlighted.
Perforator‐to‐Perforator SCIP‐Based Vascularized Lymphnode Transfer to Reduce Morbidity and Increase Efficacy in Lymphedema Surgery: Preliminary Results With 12 Cases
Authors: Meroni Matteo , Scaglioni Mario F.
Published: October 2024

Background

Vascularized lymphnode transfer (VLNT) is one of the most common surgical treatments for moderate and severe lymphedema. Various techniques have been described for harvesting lymph nodes from different donor sites. However, a standardized harvest procedure is still lacking. The transplantation of inguinal lymph nodes using the perforator‐to‐perforator technique may represent a significant advancement in this context. This approach relies always on the same vascular pedicle, offers a lower morbidity, and allows for a more superficial inset at the recipient site.

Patients and Methods

Between 2019 and 2022, 12 patients received a perforator‐to‐perforator VLNT for the treatment of late stage (Late II) lymphedema, both primary and secondary. In all cases, the lymphnodes were harvested from the groin supplied by the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) vessels. The average age was 62.2 years old (range 47–73 years old); nine patients were females and three were males. In 11 cases, the lower limb was affected, and in one case, the upper limb was affected. Eight patients received additional lymphovenous anastomosis.

Results

All the patients reported an improvement of the symptoms after surgery in terms of tissue quality (tenderness, lymphangiectasia, and pain), and no cases of recurrent cellulitis were reported. Postoperative lymphoscintigraphy was performed at 6 months, and in all cases, the function of transplanted lymphnodes was confirmed. No complications were encountered, neither at donor nor at recipient site. The follow‐up was at least 12 months in all patients.

Conclusions

Despite being more technically demanding, the systematic implementation of the perforator‐to‐perforator technique for the transfer of SCIP‐based inguinal lymphnodes can be a valuable evolution of VLNT. The aim of this study is to present how this technical approach may become a standardized procedure for inguinal‐based VLNT, offering a reduced donor and recipient site morbidity and potentially enhancing the lymph draining effects due to a more superficial inset.
GCLmf: A Novel Molecular Graph Contrastive Learning Framework Based on Hard Negatives and Application in Toxicity Prediction**
Authors: Yu Xinxin , Chen Yuanting , Chen Long , Li Weihua , Wang Yuhao , Tang Yun , Liu Guixia
Published: October 2024

In silico methods for prediction of chemical toxicity can decrease the cost and increase the efficiency in the early stage of drug discovery. However, due to low accessibility of sufficient and reliable toxicity data, constructing robust and accurate prediction models is challenging. Contrastive learning, a type of self‐supervised learning, leverages large unlabeled data to obtain more expressive molecular representations, which can boost the prediction performance on downstream tasks. While molecular graph contrastive learning has gathered growing attentions, current models neglect the quality of negative data set. Here, we proposed a self‐supervised pretraining deep learning framework named GCLmf. We first utilized molecular fragments that meet specific conditions as hard negative samples to boost the quality of the negative set and thus increase the difficulty of the proxy tasks during pre‐training to learn informative representations. GCLmf has shown excellent predictive power on various molecular property benchmarks and demonstrates high performance in 33 toxicity tasks in comparison with multiple baselines. In addition, we further investigated the necessity of introducing hard negatives in model building and the impact of the proportion of hard negatives on the model.
Numerical Solution of the Rosenau‐KdV‐RLW equation via combination of a polynomial scaling function collocation and finite difference method
Authors: Oruç Ömer , Esen Alaattin , Bulut Fatih
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we established a polynomial scaling method to investigate the numerical solution of Rosenau–Korteweg De Vries‐regularized long wave (Rosenau‐KdV‐RLW) equation. We start with discretization of the time variable of the equation using a finite difference approach equipped with a linearization. After the time discretization, we have used polynomial scaling functions for the discretization of the spatial variable. These two discretizations give us the desired discrete system of equations to obtain numerical solutions. We further derive an error estimate for the proposed method. We have applied the proposed method to Rosenau‐KdV, Rosenau‐RLW, and Rosenau‐KdV‐RLW equations and used error norms to examine the accuracy and reliability of the presented method. Also, to enhance accuracy of the results, we utilize Richardson extrapolation. The comparisons with the analytical solution and earlier studies that use different methods indicate that the proposed method is accurate and reliable.
A Mix of Probiotic Strains Prevents Hepatic Steatosis, and Improves Oxidative Stress Status and Gut Microbiota Composition in Obese Mice
Authors: Guo Chenglin , He Shengduo , Le Barz Mélanie , Binda Sylvie , Wang Huahong
Published: October 2024

Scope

The gut microbiota plays a role in fat accumulation and energy homeostasis. Therefore, probiotic supplementation may improve metabolic parameters and control body weight.

Methods and results

In this study, mice are fed either a high‐fat diet (HFD) or an HFD supplemented with oral gavage of a mixture of three probiotic strains, Bifidobacterium lactis Lafti B94, Lactobacillus plantarum HA‐119, and Lactobacillus helveticus Lafti L10 for 7 weeks. It finds that probiotic supplementation modulates body weight gain, food energy efficiency, and fat accumulation caused by the HFD. This probiotic mix prevents liver damage and lipid metabolic disorders in HFD‐fed obese mice. The probiotic supplementation significantly downregulates the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver and upregulated catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and nuclear respiratory factor 1 (Nrf1) expression. Mice supplemented with the probiotic mix also show different microbiota compositions, with an increase in Clostridia_UCG‐014 and Lachnospiraceae_nk4a136_group and a decrease in the Dubosiella genus compared with those in mice fed only an HFD. Finally, the amounts of fecal pentanoic acid and the three bile acid species increase in mice with probiotic supplementation.

Conclusion

Treatment with a combination of a mixture of three probiotic strains, B. lactis Lafti B94, L. plantarum HA‐119, and L. helveticus Lafti L10 for 7 weeks, ameliorates the effects of HFD induced obesity in mice.
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Improves Endometrial Homeostasis in a Rat Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome by Decreasing Insulin Resistance and Regulating the Glylytic Pathway
Authors: Zhang Wenhui , Zhang Jiaming , Xue Haoxuan , Chen Xi , Li Meixiang , Chen Shenghua , Li Zhiling , Sechi Leonardo Antonio , Wang Qian , Capobianco Giampiero , Lei Xiaocan
Published: October 2024

Scope

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that can lead to insulin resistance (IR) and dysregulation of glucose metabolism, resulting in an imbalance in the endometrial environment, which is unfavorable for embryo implantation of PCOS. This study aims to investigate whether nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) improves the stability of the endometrium in a rat model of PCOS and identifies whether it is related to reduce IR and increase glycolysis levels and its potential signaling pathway.

Methods and results

Female Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats are fed letrozole and a high‐fat diet (HFD) to form the PCOS model, then the model rats are treated with or without NMN. It randomly divided into control, PCOS, and PCOS‐NMN groups according to the feeding and treating method. Compared with the PCOS group, the regular estrous cycles are restored, the serum androgen (p<0.01) and fasting insulin levels (p<0.05) are reduced, and endometrial morphology (p<0.05) is improved in NMN‐PCOS group. Furthermore, NMN inhibits endometrial cell apoptosis, improves endometrial decidualization transition, reduces IR, restores the expression of glycolysis rate‐limiting enzymes, and activates the PI3K/AKT pathway in the uterus.

Conclusions

These results suggest that NMN enhances endometrial tissue homeostasis by decreasing uterine IR and regulating the glycolysis through the PI3K/AKT pathway.
Implementation and validation of a very‐high‐energy electron model in the matRad treatment planning system
Authors: Sitarz Mateusz , Ronga Maria Grazia , Gesualdi Flavia , Bonfrate Anthony , Wahl Niklas , De Marzi Ludovic
Published: October 2024

Background

While electron beams of up to 20 MeV are commonly used in radiotherapy, the use of very‐high‐energy electrons (VHEEs) in the range of 100–200 MeV is now becoming a realistic option thanks to the recent advancements in accelerator technology. Indeed, VHEE offers several clinically attractive features and can be delivered using various conformation methods (including scanning, collimation, and focussing) at ultra‐high dose rates. To date, there is a lack of research tools for fast simulation of treatment plans using VHEE beams.

Purpose

This work aims to implement and validate a simple and fast dose calculation algorithm based on the Fermi–Eyges theory of multiple Coulomb scattering for VHEE radiation therapy, with energies up to 200 MeV. A treatment planning system (TPS) toolkit with VHEE modality would indeed allow for further preclinical investigations, including treatment plan optimization and evaluation, and thus contribute to the gradual introduction of VHEE radiotherapy in clinical practice.

Methods

A VHEE pencil beam scanning double Gaussian model was introduced into the open‐source TPS matRad environment along with new functions and options dedicated to VHEE dose calculations. Various geometries and field configurations were then calculated in matRad (up to 200 MeV and 15 × 15 cm2, with complex bone or lung heterogeneities) and the results were compared to Monte Carlo simulations in the TOPAS/Geant4 toolkit. Two types of beam model (divergent or focused) were also tested. Examples of clinical treatment plans were computed, and the results were compared between the two codes.

Results

VHEE modality was fully implemented in matRad with GUI capabilities while preserving all original TPS features. New relevant options such as the importation of specific spot‐lists or adjustment of the lateral dose calculation cutoff to optimize the calculation speed were validated. Single spot and square field dose distributions were validated in water alone as well as in clinically relevant inhomogeneities. Dose maps from the VHEE model in matRad were in good agreement with TOPAS (2D gamma index [2%/1 mm] with passing rates superior to 90%, <6% mean dose differences), except for large interface heterogeneities.

Conclusions

This work describes the implementation of a simple but efficient VHEE simulation model in matRad. A few configurations were studied in order to validate the model against accurate Monte Carlo simulations, demonstrating its usefulness for carrying out preliminary studies involving VHEE radiotherapy.
Novel Genes of the Male Reproductive System: Potential Roles in Male Reproduction and as Non‐hormonal Male Contraceptive Targets
Authors: Garcia Thomas X. , Matzuk Martin M.
Published: October 2024

The development of novel non‐hormonal male contraceptives represents a pivotal frontier in reproductive health, driven by the need for safe, effective, and reversible contraceptive methods. This comprehensive review explores the genetic underpinnings of male fertility, emphasizing the crucial roles of specific genes and structural variants (SVs) identified through advanced sequencing technologies such as long‐read sequencing (LRS). LRS has revolutionized the detection of structural variants and complex genomic regions, offering unprecedented precision and resolution over traditional next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Key genetic targets, including those implicated in spermatogenesis and sperm motility, are highlighted, showcasing their potential as non‐hormonal contraceptive targets. The review delves into the systematic identification and validation of male reproductive tract‐specific genes, utilizing advanced transcriptomics and genomics studies with validation using novel knockout mouse models. We discuss the innovative application of small molecule inhibitors, developed through platforms like DNA‐encoded chemistry technology (DEC‐Tec), which have shown significant promise in preclinical models. Notable examples include inhibitors targeting serine/threonine kinase 33 (STK33), soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC), cyclin‐dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), and bromodomain testis associated (BRDT), each demonstrating nanomolar affinity and potential for reversible and specific inhibition of male fertility. This review also honors the contributions of Dr. David L. Garbers whose foundational work has paved the way for these advancements. The integration of genomic, proteomic, and chemical biology approaches, supported by interdisciplinary collaboration, is poised to transform male contraceptive development. Future perspectives emphasize the need for continued innovation and rigorous testing to bring these novel contraceptives from the laboratory to clinical application, promising a new era of male reproductive health management.
Effectiveness of Muscle Energy and Joint Mobilisation Techniques on Range of Motion, Pain and Functional Ability in Adults With Frozen Shoulder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gupta Mrigna , Vats Manju , Ramprabhu K.
Published: October 2024

Background

This investigation assessed the effectiveness of muscle energy and joint mobilisation techniques on range of motion, pain and functional ability in adults with frozen shoulder.

Methods

Relevant RCTs from a 10‐year period, or from 2013 to September 28, 2023, were looked for in databases including PubMed, PEDro, and Google Scholar. Two reviewers independently screened the literature and a third reviewer intervened to resolve the conflict. Risk of Bias assessment was done by the PEDro scale and the certainty of evidence was checked using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation at three time points. The final articles were systematically summarised.

Results

A total of 9 studies comprising 439 subjects were selected for data extraction. Overall joint mobilisation technique and muscle energy technique both tended to be more effective than conservative management but there was a low to very low level of certainty for the effectiveness of muscle energy technique and joint mobilisation technique for frozen shoulder at short term, medium term and long‐term time points.

Conclusion

This review indicates that current evidence for managing frozen shoulder with joint mobilisation and muscle energy techniques is limited and of low quality. However, positive outcomes in most studies suggest potential benefits in pain relief, range of motion, and function, suggesting they could be useful adjuncts to conventional treatment.
Morphological study of the bony labyrinth of the last hunter‐gatherers in Portugal: Insights from the Moita do Sebastião shell midden
Authors: Pujol Arbona Marina , Umbelino Cláudia , Coutinho‐Nogueira Dany
Published: October 2024

The bony labyrinth is often studied in paleoanthropology for the taxonomic identification of hominins with a special focus on the differentiation between Neanderthals and modern humans. Although the variability of Pleistocene populations is now well studied, the variability of Early and Middle Holocene modern human hunter‐gatherers is still poorly known. Thus, this study focuses on the analysis of the bony labyrinth morphology of nine Late Mesolithic individuals from Moita do Sebastião in the Tagus Valley (Portugal). The results show a significant intra‐site variability in the Middle Holocene sample, confirming previous studies on the variability of early modern humans. The analysis also revealed morphological differences in the inner ear structures between European individuals associated with an Upper Paleolithic context (Gravettian) from the Vézère Valley and the Mesolithic individuals from Moita do Sebastião. Interestingly, the only Late Pleistocene individual from Portugal shows some similarities with the Middle Holocene ones, posing the possibility of an eventual local biological continuity.