bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrophobic, oil‐repellent, and antimicrobial guar gum‐chitosan composite paper coating for sustainable food packaging
Authors: Korumilli Tarangini , Teotia Anjali , Abdullahi Aminu , Korukonda Jagajjanani Rao
Published: July 2024

Challenges in sustainable food packaging include ensuring effective moisture and oil barriers, antimicrobial protection, and developing cost‐effective, scalable production methods. This study introduces a hydrophobic, oil‐repelling, antimicrobial coating of a guar gum (GG)‐chitosan (CS) blend applied via a dip coating approach on blotting paper. By incorporating sodium tri‐polyphosphate (STPP) as a cross‐linker, the optimized formulation (1.5% guar gum, 0.09% STPP, 1% chitosan, and 1.5% glycerol) achieved notable hydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 136.1 ± 2.2°. This study is significant as it offers a sustainable, eco‐friendly food packaging solution with enhanced hydrophobic, oil‐repellent, and antimicrobial properties.
Cervicovaginal specimen biomarkers for early detection of ovarian and endometrial cancer: A review
Authors: Kwinten Kevin J. J. , Lemain Victor A. , de Hullu Joanne A. , Leenders William P. J. , Steenbeek Miranda P. , van Altena Anne M. , Pijnenborg Johanna M. A.
Published: July 2024

Background

In the last decade, technical innovations have resulted in the development of several minimally invasive diagnostic cancer tools. Within women at high risk of developing ovarian cancer (OC) or endometrial cancer (EC) due to a hereditary cancer syndrome, there is an urgent need for minimally invasive and patient‐friendly methods to detect OC and EC at an early stage.

Materials and Methods

We performed a systematic search of studies using DNA methylation or mutation analysis, microbiome, or proteomics performed on cervicovaginal specimens (smear, swab, or tampon) intended to detect OC and EC published until January 2024.

Results

Included studies (n = 36) showed high heterogeneity in terms of biomarkers used and outcomes, and only a few studies reported on the detection of biomarkers in high‐risk subgroups.

Conclusion

Based on the findings in this review, DNA methylation techniques seem to be the most promising for detecting OC and EC at early stages in the general population. Future validation of cervicovaginal DNA methylation techniques is needed to determine whether this technique might be beneficial in hereditary high‐risk subgroups.
Effects of training oncology physicians advising patients on complementary and integrative therapies on patient‐reported outcomes: 2‐year follow‐up of the multi‐center, cluster‐randomized KOKON‐KTO study
Authors: Rogge Alizé A. , Helmer Stefanie M. , Icke Katja , Witt Claudia M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Many cancer patients wish for complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) consultations led by their oncology physician. Within the KOKON‐KTO study, oncology physicians in the intervention group were trained in a blended learning to provide CIM consultations to their cancer patients in addition to distributing a leaflet about CIM websites. Control oncology physicians only distributed the leaflet. The training showed positive effects on the patient‐level. As of now, no consistent evidence exists on the long‐term effects of such one‐time‐only CIM consultation during cancer treatment.

Methods

In the KOKON‐KTO follow‐up study, cancer patients previously participating in the KOKON‐KTO study (intervention group:IG and control group: CG) received, at least 24 months later, a follow‐up questionnaire by post, evaluating long‐term effects of the KOKON‐KTO consultation using the measures provided in the original study (patient‐physician communication (EORTC‐QLQ‐COMU2), satisfaction with cancer treatment (PS‐CaTE), CIM disclosure with healthcare provider (HCP), and need for CIM consultation during cancer therapy).

Results

In total, 102 cancer patients participated in the follow‐up study (IG n = 62; CG n = 40). The overall reponse rate was around 36% (IG: 48.4%; CG: 23.7%). In the follow‐up study, differences between groups had increased and were still shown (EORTC‐QLQ‐COMU26, 0–100 point scale, ≥10‐point‐group difference) in some subscales: patient's active behavior (in means; IG:73.6 (95% CI, 63.8–83.5); CG:61.1 (95% CI, 52.4–69.8)); clinician‐patient relationship (IG:80.9 (95% CI, 71.8–90.0); CG:68.7 (95% CI, 59.3–78.0)). For some outcomes, differences decreased over time (e.g., EORTC‐QLQ‐COMU26 subscales “takes into account patient's preference” and “corrects misunderstandings”). More patients in the CG used CIM without oncology physicians' knowledge (IG: 13.7%, CG: 24.0%).

Conclusion

This study presents first findings that one‐time‐only CIM consultations may enhance patient‐physican relationship and CIM disclosure long‐term. To further support cancer patients' in their wish for CIM consultations, training programs should provide oncology physicians with CIM competencies for different cancer stages including cancer survivors.
Health‐related quality of life in patients with metastatic basal cell carcinoma treated with cemiplimab: Analysis of a phase 2 trial
Authors: Peris Ketty , Inocencio Timothy J. , Stratigos Alexander J. , Lewis Karl D. , Eroglu Zeynep , Chang Anne Lynn S. , Ivanescu Cristina , Sekulic Aleksandar , Fury Matthew G. , Chen Chieh‐I , Quek Ruben G. W.
Published: July 2024

Background

A phase 2 cemiplimab study (NCT03132636) demonstrated a 24.1% objective response rate in patients diagnosed with metastatic basal cell carcinoma (mBCC) who were not candidates for continued hedgehog inhibitor (HHI) therapy due to intolerance to previous HHI therapy, disease progression while receiving HHI therapy, or having not better than stable disease on HHI therapy after 9 months. Here, health‐related quality of life (QoL) for this patient population is reported.

Methods

Adult patients with mBCC were treated with intravenous cemiplimab at a dose of 350 mg every 3 weeks for 5 treatment cycles of 9 weeks/cycle then 4 treatment cycles of 12 weeks/cycle. Patients completed the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life‐Core 30 (QLQ‐C30) and Skindex‐16 questionnaires at baseline and Day 1 of each cycle. Across Cycles 2 to 9, the overall change from baseline was analyzed using a mixed model with repeated measures. Responder analyses determined clinically meaningful improvement or deterioration (changes ≥10 points) or maintenance across all scales.

Results

Patients reported low symptom burden and moderate‐to‐high functioning at baseline. Maintenance for QLQ‐C30 global health status (GHS)/QoL and across all functioning and symptom scales was indicated by overall mean changes from baseline. Clinically meaningful improvement or maintenance was reported at Cycle 2 for GHS/QoL (77%), functioning scales (77% to 86%), and symptom scales (70% to 93%), with similar proportions of improvement or maintenance at Cycles 6 and 9, excluding fatigue. On the Skindex‐16, clinically meaningful improvement or maintenance was reported across the emotional, symptom, and functional subscales, in 76%–88% of patients at Cycle 2, which were generally maintained at Cycles 6 and 9. Overall mean changes from baseline showed maintenance across these subscales.

Conclusions

The majority of patients treated with cemiplimab reported improvement or maintenance in GHS/QoL and functioning while maintaining a low symptom burden.
Elevated reactive aggression in forebrain‐specific Ccn2 knockout mice
Authors: Chang Ho‐Ching , Ng Chi‐Hou , Chen Yu‐Fu , Wang Yu‐Chun , Yu I‐Shing , Lee Lukas Jyuhn‐Hsiarn , Lee Li‐Jen , Lee Kuang‐Yung
Published: July 2024

Cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) is a matricellular protein that plays important roles in connective tissue. CCN2 is also expressed in the nervous system; however, its role is still unclear. To explore CCN2 function in the brain, we generated forebrain‐specific Ccn2 knockout (FbCcn2 KO) mice. In this study, we examined the behavioral phenotypes of FbCcn2KO mice. Male mice lacking CCN2 in the forebrain exhibited normal locomotion, sensorimotor gating, and social behaviors but signs of anxiety and elevated reactive aggression. We checked the c‐fos expression in aggression‐related brain regions following the resident‐intruder task (RIT), an aggression test. RIT‐induced c‐fos levels in the medial amygdala (MeA) were higher in FbCcn2−/− mice as compared to controls. However, in the prefrontal cortex, RIT‐induced c‐fos levels in FbCcn2−/− mice were lower than controls. Our results suggested in male mice lacking CCN2 in the olfaction‐related regions, olfactory social cues elicit greater signals in the MeA, resulting in greater reactive aggression in the RIT. Further, lacking CCN2 in the prefrontal cortex, the major area related to inhibitory control and emotion regulation, may lead to signs of anxiety and the failure to suppress aggressive behaviors. Our model is useful in elaborating the mechanism underlying reactive aggression and therapeutic strategies.
Zeolite Catalysts for Selective Hydrocracking of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons – Structures and Mechanisms
Authors: Dong Qi , Li Ruifeng , Jiao Haijun
Published: July 2024

Selective hydrocracking of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from heavy oils and tar to high‐value chemicals such as benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) is a promising technology. Due to the lack of comprehensive and rational understanding of the reaction mechanisms, the development and preparation of catalysts and the improvement of catalysis technology are rarely carried out. Since zeolites as crucial solid acid catalyst components in catalytic hydrocracking of PAHs are indispensable, this review systematically analyzed the mechanisms and research advances in hydrogenation, isomerization, and ring‐opening (cracking) on zeolite catalysts. Efficient zeolite catalysts for hydrocracking should have appropriate pore structures for the required diffusivity for reactants and products to avoid secondary polymerization and coke formation, an ideal distribution and strength of acid sites for the formation of the desired carbocation intermediates to achieve the selectivity of products and precisely tunable metal to acid functions to control the competition between (de)hydrogenation and ring‐opening reactions leading to the facilitation of the reaction mechanisms for the desired products. This poses challenges for the research and development of industrial relevant zeolite catalysts.
On‐Surface Stepwise Double Dehydrogenation for the Formation of a para‐Quinodimethane‐Containing Undecacene Isomer
Authors: Sarkar Suchetana , Álvarez Berta , Ho Au‐Yeung Kwan , Cobas Agustín , Robles Roberto , Lorente Nicolás , Peña Diego , Pérez Dolores , Moresco Francesca
Published: July 2024

The on‐surface synthesis of an isomer of undecacene, bearing two four‐membered rings and two para‐quinodimethane moieties, starting from a tetramethyl‐substituted diepoxy precursor, is presented. The transformation implies a thermal double deoxygenation followed by a stepwise double dehydrogenation reaction on the Au(111) surface, locally induced by inelastic tunneling electrons. This results in the transformation of para‐dimethylbenzene moieties into non‐aromatic para‐quinodimethanes. The structures and electronic properties of the intermediate and final products are investigated at the single molecule level with high spatial resolution, using both scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy and non‐contact atomic force microscopy. The experimental results are supported by density functional theory calculations.
Being born in autumn or winter is associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis in Finland
Authors: Hänninen Riikka , Murtomäki Aada , Svärd Fanni , Dietz Aarno , Torkki Paulus , Haukka Jari , Nuutinen Mikko , Toppila‐Salmi Sanna
Published: July 2024

Background

Our population‐based study has previously shown that being born in winter or spring was associated with adult‐onset asthma. The aim was to study if season of birth (SOB) is associated with airway allergy and related diseases: NSAID exacerbated respiratory disease (N‐ERD), asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR), nonallergic rhinitis (NAR), chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) in Finland.

Methods

A randomly sampled retrospective registry‐based follow‐up data (n = 74,868) of patients visiting Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa (HUS) in Finland was used. The birth date, sex, visit date and comorbidities were collected from electronic health record data during visits from 2005 to 2019.

Results

The mean (SD, range) age of the sample was 34.53 (25.47, 0–102) years, with 48.7 % being men. We divided the whole population in four groups based on the season they were born (SOB‐groups). When observing these four SOB‐groups, the proportion of those having asthma was 43.1%, 42.1%, 41.1%, 42.7%, in winter, spring, summer, and autumn SOB‐groups, respectively. The proportion of those having AR was 12.6%, 12.0%, 10.7%, 12.1%, respectively. When having summer as a reference, being born in any other time of year was significantly associated with AR and, being born in autumn or winter was associated with asthma. No significant association was observed in CRS or N‐ERD or NAR groups in adjusted models.

Conclusions

The study suggests that early life immunological events may have a role a role in pathogenesis of asthma and AR. As no association was observed between SOB and CRSsNP, CRSwNP, N‐ERD or NAR, further studies on this are warranted.
The aftermath of communicating CSR campaigns' results: A perception study
Authors: Filipeanu Dumitru , Hertug Iulian , Maha Liviu‐George , Tiganas Claudiu Gabriel , Viorica Elena‐Daniela
Published: July 2024

The study aims to assess the adequacy to which main companies in Romania communicate the outcome of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) campaigns to the public, by comparing the public's perception of social responsibility as demonstrated by companies with reported non‐financial results. The study focuses on identifying public perception on the type of activity associated with social responsibility; how adequately the respondents ranked the main types of non‐financial results; how socially responsible the companies are perceived by the public; and how well‐known the main CSR campaigns and the companies initiating them were. Although there are online reports containing the non‐financial results of companies, either the public has not been interested or the communication of such results is inefficient. Instead, people's perception on the type of activities run by companies is formed mainly from the media and by reading materials made available on the companies' web pages.
Milk exosomes: Harnessing nature's duality for cancer therapy
Authors: Das Asmit , Sonar Swarup , Kalele Ketki , Subramaniyan Vetriselvan
Published: July 2024

Milk exosomes, extracellular nanovesicles that are naturally present in milk, have gained significant attention in cancer research for their potential to revolutionize cancer treatment strategies. They possess a specific set of characteristics that make them promising nanoscale vehicles for targeted drug delivery systems. Their inherent biocompatibility, coupled with their ability to effectively encapsulate and transport therapeutic agents directly into tumor cells, suggests the possibility of developing novel cancer therapies, potentially minimizing side effects associated with conventional therapies. However, recent studies have shown that milk exosomes have a dual nature, which is not entirely positive. Although they show potential in delivering anticancer therapeutics, evidence suggests they may also, under certain conditions, contribute to cancer progression. This paradoxical nature necessitates a better understanding of how they interact and work in different stages of cancer. Further investigation is crucial to understand the factors influencing their behaviour and to develop strategies that can maximize their therapeutic prospects while mitigating potential risks associated with their use in cancer treatment.
A novel cinnamic and caffeic acid‐conjugated peptide analogs with anticonvulsant and analgesic potency: Comparative analyses of trans/cis isomers
Authors: Tchekalarova Jana , Pechlivanova Daniela , Rangelov Miroslav , Todorova Nadezda , Stoyanova Tsveta , Assenov Borislav , Todorov Petar
Published: July 2024

The novel cinnamic acid (CA) (H4‐CA, H5‐CA, and H7‐CA) and caffeic acid (KA) (H4‐KA, H5‐KA, and H7‐KA) hemorphin analogs have recently been synthesized and their trans isomers have been tested for antiseizure and antinociceptive activity. In the present study, the cis forms of these compounds were tested and compared with their trans isomers in seizure and nociception tests in mice. The cis‐H5‐CA and H7‐CA compounds showed efficacy against psychomotor seizures, whereas the trans isomers were ineffective. Both the cis and trans KA isomers were ineffective in the 6‐Hz test. In the maximal electroshock (MES) test, the cis isomers showed superior antiseizure activity to the trans forms of CA and KA conjugates, respectively. The suppression of seizure propagation by cis‐H5‐CA and the cis‐H5‐KA was reversed by a kappa opioid receptor (KOR) antagonist. Naloxone and naltrindole were not effective. The cis‐isomers of CA conjugates and cis‐H7‐KA produced significantly stronger antinociceptive effects than their trans‐isomers. The cis‐H5‐CA antinociception was blocked by naloxone in the acute phase and by naloxone and KOR antagonists in the inflammatory phase of the formalin test. The antinociception of the KA conjugates was not abolished by opioid receptor blockade. None of the tested conjugates affected the thermal nociceptive threshold. The results of the docking analysis also suggest a model‐specific mechanism related to the activity of the cis‐isomers of CA and KA conjugates in relation to opioid receptors. Our findings pave the way for the further development of novel opioid‐related antiseizure and antinociceptive therapeutics.
Design of novel broad‐spectrum antiviral nucleoside analogues using natural bases ring‐opening strategy
Authors: Du Xingyi , Yang Xingxing , Zhao Jianyuan , Zhang Jinyan , Yu Jiahui , Ma Ling , Zhang Weina , Cen Shan , Ren Xuhong , He Xinhua
Published: July 2024

The global prevalence of RNA virus infections has presented significant challenges to public health in recent years, necessitating the expansion of its alternative therapeutic library. Due to its evolutional conservation, RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) has emerged as a potential target for broad‐spectrum antiviral nucleoside analogues. However, after over half a century of structural modification, exploring unclaimed chemical space using frequently‐used structural substitution methods to design new nucleoside analogues is challenging. In this study, we explore the use of the “ring‐opening” strategy to design new base mimics, thereby using these base mimics to design new nucleoside analogues with broad‐spectrum antiviral activities. A total of 29 compounds were synthesized. Their activity against viral RdRp was initially screened using an influenza A virus RdRp high‐throughput screening model. Then, the antiviral activity of 38a was verified against influenza virus strain A/PR/8/34 (H1N1), demonstrating a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 9.95 μM, which was superior to that of ribavirin (the positive control, IC50 = 11.43 μM). Moreover, 38a also has inhibitory activity against coronavirus 229E with an IC50 of 30.82 μM. In addition, compounds 42 and 46f exhibit an 82% inhibition rate against vesicular stomatitis virus at a concentration of 20 μM and hardly induce cytotoxicity in host cells. This work demonstrates the feasibility of designing nucleoside analogues with “ring‐opening” bases and suggests the “ring‐opening” nucleosides may have greater polarity, and designing prodrugs is an important aspect of optimizing their antiviral activity. Future research should focus on enhancing the conformational restriction of open‐loop bases to mimic Watson‐Crick base pairing better and improve antiviral activity.
Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring to Passively Classify Naturalistic Binge Eating and Vomiting Among Adults With Binge‐Spectrum Eating Disorders: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Presseller Emily K. , Velkoff Elizabeth A. , Riddle Devyn R. , Liu Jianyi , Zhang Fengqing , Juarascio Adrienne S.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Binge eating and self‐induced vomiting are common, transdiagnostic eating disorder (ED) symptoms. Efforts to understand these behaviors in research and clinical settings have historically relied on self‐report measures, which may be biased and have limited ecological validity. It may be possible to passively detect binge eating and vomiting using data collected by continuous glucose monitors (CGMs; minimally invasive sensors that measure blood glucose levels), as these behaviors yield characteristic glucose responses.

Method

This study developed machine learning classification algorithms to classify binge eating and vomiting among 22 adults with binge‐spectrum EDs using CGM data. Participants wore Dexcom G6 CGMs and reported eating episodes and disordered eating symptoms using ecological momentary assessment for 2 weeks. Group‐level random forest models were generated to distinguish binge eating from typical eating episodes and to classify instances of vomiting.

Results

The binge eating model had accuracy of 0.88 (95% CI: 0.83, 0.92), sensitivity of 0.56, and specificity of 0.90. The vomiting model demonstrated accuracy of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.62, 0.91), sensitivity of 0.88, and specificity of 0.71.

Discussion

Results suggest that CGM may be a promising avenue for passively classifying binge eating and vomiting, with implications for innovative research and clinical applications.
Electrode materials for calcium batteries: Future directions and perspectives
Authors: Masese Titus , Kanyolo Godwill Mbiti
Published: July 2024

Despite the prevailing dominance of lithium‐ion batteries in consumer electronics and electric vehicle markets, the growing apprehension over lithium availability has ignited a quest for alternative high‐energy‐density electrochemical energy storage systems. Rechargeable batteries featuring calcium (Ca) metal as negative electrodes (anodes) present compelling prospects, promising notable advantages in energy density, cost‐effectiveness, and safety. However, unlocking the full potential of rechargeable Ca metal batteries particularly hinges upon the strategic identification or design of high‐energy‐density positive electrode (cathode) materials. This imperative task demands expeditious synthetic routes tailored for their meticulous design. In this Perspective, we mainly highlight the development in the cathode materials for calcium batteries and accentuate the unparalleled promise of solid‐state metathesis routes in designing a diverse array of high‐performance electrode materials.
10‐20‐30 exercise training improves fitness and health
Authors: Bangsbo Jens
Published: July 2024

Intense interval exercise training has been shown to improve performance and health of untrained and trained people. However, due to the exercise intensity causing high‐perceived exertion, the participants often do not wish to continue the training. The 10‐20‐30 training concept consists of low intensity for 30 s, 20 s at a moderate pace, and then 10 s with high intensity either running or cycling. A 10‐20‐30 training session consist of two to four 5‐min blocks. The 10‐20‐30 training improved fitness and performance as well as lowered blood pressure and body fat of both untrained and trained individuals even with a significant reduction in the training volume. Similarly, hypertensive, diabetic, and asthmatic patients lowered body fat, improved fitness, and performance during a 10‐20‐30‐training intervention period. In addition, hypertensive patients reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure markedly with the 10‐20‐30 training twice a week for 8 weeks. Diabetic patients lowered long‐term blood sugar (HbA1c), which did not occur with moderate‐intensity exercise training. Furthermore, asthmatic patients improved their control of asthma and asthma‐related quality of life with the 10‐20‐30 training. The adherence for the patient groups was high (>80%), and no adverse events were reported. Thus, the 10‐20‐30 training seems to be time efficient and feasible for untrained and trained individuals as well as patients and may be used in the prevention and treatment of noncommunicable diseases.
Exploring off‐flavour compounds in soy‐based meats: Mechanisms and removal methods
Authors: Nagassa Merga , He Shudong , Liu Shuyun , Wang Junhui , Cao Xiaodong , Chen Shuguan , Song Jiazhen , Sun Hanju
Published: July 2024

Plant‐based meat is projected to address world‐wide meat shortage and supply–demand imbalances, potentially promoting the growth of sustainable diet choices. Soybean is a key ingredient to produce this alternative food, but the off‐flavours that naturally occur in soy can hinder its widespread acceptance among consumers. This review extensively elaborates on the primary compounds responsible for off‐flavours, their formation mechanisms, and removal techniques. Lipoxygenase oxidation–reduction, oleosins removal, adjustment extrusion conditions, and β‐cyclodextrin treatment were discussed. Fermentation mechanisms, solvent extraction, enzymes hydrolysis, flavouring, and controlling storage conditions were summarised. The most crucial, safe, and effective techniques were enzyme restriction, β‐cyclodextrin treatment in conjugation with phospholipase A2, and modification of the extrusion condition. The reviews provide a systematic summary of the development and prevention methods for the undesirable flavour of soy protein isolate and soy‐based meat products.
Characterizing normal perinatal development of the human brain structural connectivity
Authors: Wu Yihan , Vasung Lana , Calixto Camilo , Gholipour Ali , Karimi Davood
Published: July 2024

Early brain development is characterized by the formation of a highly organized structural connectome, which underlies brain's cognitive abilities and influences its response to diseases and environmental factors. Hence, quantitative assessment of structural connectivity in the perinatal stage is useful for studying normal and abnormal neurodevelopment. However, estimation of the connectome from diffusion MRI data involves complex computations. For the perinatal period, these computations are further challenged by the rapid brain development, inherently low signal quality, imaging difficulties, and high inter‐subject variability. These factors make it difficult to chart the normal development of the structural connectome. As a result, there is a lack of reliable normative baselines of structural connectivity metrics at this critical stage in brain development. In this study, we developed a computational method based on spatio‐temporal averaging in the image space for determining such baselines. We used this method to analyze the structural connectivity between 33 and 44 postmenstrual weeks using data from 166 subjects. Our results unveiled clear and strong trends in the development of structural connectivity in the perinatal stage. We observed increases in measures of network integration and segregation, and widespread strengthening of the connections within and across brain lobes and hemispheres. We also observed asymmetry patterns that were consistent between different connection weighting approaches. Connection weighting based on fractional anisotropy and neurite density produced the most consistent results. Our proposed method also showed considerable agreement with an alternative technique based on connectome averaging. The new computational method and results of this study can be useful for assessing normal and abnormal development of the structural connectome early in life.
Association between objective measures of oral health and salivary gland irradiation with patient‐reported outcomes following head and neck radiation therapy
Authors: Singh Annu , Long Sallie M. , Tin Amy L. , Vickers Andrew J. , Yom SaeHee K. , Lee Nancy Y. , Huryn Joseph M. , Cracchiolo Jennifer R. , Estilo Cherry L.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To determine whether objective measures of oral health and salivary gland irradiation correlates with subjective measures of eating, drinking, and salivation in patients following head and neck radiation therapy (HNRT).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 112 patients following HNRT with a completed patient‐reported outcome (PRO) scale. Objective measures at post‐HNRT visit included decayed–missing–filled teeth (DMFT) scores, periodontal disease condition, oral hygiene status, dental prosthesis use, and prescribed radiation dose to salivary glands. Data were collected and statistical analysis was performed.

Results

There was no significant association between PRO scales and dental prosthesis use, periodontal disease, and oral hygiene. Although some significant findings were seen with DMFT and prescribed radiation dose to salivary glands, this explained only very small amounts of the variation in eating, drinking, and salivation measures in these patients.

Conclusion

PRO measures should be integrated in the routine care of patients with head and neck cancer.
Women's decision‐making power can influence modern contraceptive use: Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Bhowmik Jahar , Biswas Raaj Kishore , Williams Joanne , Dey Sima Rani
Published: July 2024

Objectives

It is generally believed that gender inequality and women's lack of decision‐making power may restrict women's use of modern contraception, leading to high rates of unwanted pregnancies, abortions, and deaths. Evidence shows that empowered women are more likely to use modern contraception methods, but few studies have investigated this across multiple domains of empowerment.

Study design

This study examined the associations between women's empowerment and modern contraception use in Bangladesh. Data from a sample of 16,834 married women aged 15–49 years from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018 were analysed.

Methods

Complex survey weight adjusted logistic models were fitted to evaluate the associations after adjusting for clusters, strata, and sampling weights.

Results

indicate that just over half of the married women (55.7%) had used modern contraception methods. Women's empowerment was associated with contraceptive use, especially decision‐making power. Women who had medium or high autonomy of household decision making were likely to have 20% (AOR = 1.20; 95% CI: 1.04–1.39) and 27% (AOR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.11–1.45) increased odds of using modern contraceptives compared to those who scored low in the decision‐making domain. The findings demonstrated strong evidence of direct influence of women's decision‐making power on modern contraception use. The results also found influence of several socio‐demographic factors including area of residence, husband's age, wealth index and mobile phone ownership on the use of modern contraceptives.

Discussion

Future interventions can focus on integrating women's empowerment into family planning programming, with a particular focus on enhancing women's autonomy in decision making.
High‐confidence calling of normal epithelial cells allows identification of a novel stem‐like cell state in the colorectal cancer microenvironment
Authors: Wei Tzu‐Ting , Blanc Eric , Peidli Stefan , Bischoff Philip , Trinks Alexandra , Horst David , Sers Christine , Blüthgen Nils , Beule Dieter , Morkel Markus , Obermayer Benedikt
Published: July 2024

Single‐cell analyses can be confounded by assigning unrelated groups of cells to common developmental trajectories. For instance, cancer cells and admixed normal epithelial cells could adopt similar cell states thus complicating analyses of their developmental potential. Here, we develop and benchmark CCISM (for Cancer Cell Identification using Somatic Mutations) to exploit genomic single nucleotide variants for the disambiguation of cancer cells from genomically normal non‐cancer cells in single‐cell data. We find that our method and others based on gene expression or allelic imbalances identify overlapping sets of colorectal cancer versus normal colon epithelial cells, depending on molecular characteristics of individual cancers. Further, we define consensus cell identities of normal and cancer epithelial cells with higher transcriptome cluster homogeneity than those derived using existing tools. Using the consensus identities, we identify significant shifts of cell state distributions in genomically normal epithelial cells developing in the cancer microenvironment, with immature states increased at the expense of terminal differentiation throughout the colon, and a novel stem‐like cell state arising in the left colon. Trajectory analyses show that the new cell state extends the pseudo‐time range of normal colon stem‐like cells in a cancer context. We identify cancer‐associated fibroblasts as sources of WNT and BMP ligands potentially contributing to increased plasticity of stem cells in the cancer microenvironment. Our analyses advocate careful interpretation of cell heterogeneity and plasticity in the cancer context and the consideration of genomic information in addition to gene expression data when possible.
Applications of Nanopore sequencing in precision cancer medicine
Authors: Dyshlovoy Sergey A. , Paigin Stefanie , Afflerbach Ann‐Kristin , Lobermeyer Annabelle , Werner Stefan , Schüller Ulrich , Bokemeyer Carsten , Schuh Anna H. , Bergmann Lina , von Amsberg Gunhild , Joosse Simon A.
Published: July 2024

Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing, also referred to as Nanopore sequencing, stands at the forefront of a revolution in clinical genetics, offering the potential for rapid, long read, and real‐time DNA and RNA sequencing. This technology is currently making sequencing more accessible and affordable. In this comprehensive review, we explore its potential regarding precision cancer diagnostics and treatment. We encompass a critical analysis of clinical cases where Nanopore sequencing was successfully applied to identify point mutations, splice variants, gene fusions, epigenetic modifications, non‐coding RNAs, and other pivotal biomarkers that defined subsequent treatment strategies. Additionally, we address the challenges of clinical applications of Nanopore sequencing and discuss the current efforts to overcome them.
Performance evaluation of predictive models for detecting MMR gene mutations associated with Lynch syndrome in cancer patients in a Chinese cohort in Taiwan
Authors: Hung Fei‐Hung , Peng Hung‐Pin , Hung Chen‐Fang , Hsieh Ling‐Ling , Yang An‐Suei , Wang Yong Alison
Published: July 2024

Identifying Lynch syndrome significantly impacts cancer risk management, treatment, and prognosis. Validation of mutation risk predictive models for mismatch repair (MMR) genes is crucial for guiding genetic counseling and testing, particularly in the understudied Asian population. We evaluated the performance of four MMR mutation risk predictive models in a Chinese cohort of 604 patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), endometrial cancer (EC), or ovarian cancer (OC) in Taiwan. All patients underwent germline genetic testing and 36 (6.0%) carried a mutation in the MMR genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2). All models demonstrated good performance, with area under the receiver operating characteristic curves comparable to Western cohorts: PREMM5 0.80 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73–0.88), MMRPro 0.88 (95% CI, 0.82–0.94), MMRPredict 0.82 (95% CI, 0.74–0.90), and Myriad 0.76 (95% CI, 0.67–0.84). Notably, MMRPro exhibited exceptional performance across all subgroups regardless of family history (FH+ 0.88, FH‐ 0.83), cancer type (CRC 0.84, EC 0.85, OC 1.00), or sex (male 0.83, female 0.90). PREMM5 and MMRPredict had good accuracy in the FH+ subgroup (0.85 and 0.82, respectively) and in CRC patients (0.76 and 0.82, respectively). Using the ratio of observed and predicted mutation rates, MMRPro and PREMM5 had good overall fit, while MMRPredict and Myriad overestimated mutation rates. Risk threshold settings in different models led to different positive predictive values. We suggest a lower threshold (5%) for recommending genetic testing when using MMRPro, and a higher threshold (20%) when using PREMM5 and MMRPredict. Our findings have important implications for personalized mutation risk assessment and counseling on genetic testing.
Parent‐reported genetic counselor adherence to the NSGC practice resource for communicating a potential prenatal diagnosis: Impact on the Down syndrome diagnosis experience
Authors: Ijaz Maryam R. , Trepanier Angela M. , Kleinert Harold L. , Weiss Sierra M. , Meredith Stephanie H.
Published: July 2024

In 2011, the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) published practice resources about communicating a prenatal or postnatal diagnosis of Down syndrome (DS). However, the impact of GC adherence to those recommendations on patient experiences has been unknown. The objective of this analysis was to investigate perceived GC adherence to professional recommendations for delivering a DS diagnosis and the impact on parental diagnosis experiences and the information and support offered. Parents of children with DS born between 2016 and 2021 completed a survey distributed by 12 local DS organizations and the national DS Diagnosis Network to assess prenatal diagnosis experiences and the provision of support and information by health professionals. Participants were queried about whether their GC followed specific recommendations from the NSGC practice resource. Respondents were also invited to describe their diagnosis experience. An overall perceived adherence score was calculated (percentage of elements GC demonstrated/total number of elements). Open‐ended responses were inductively coded by a GC and GC student to identify categories and to perform a sentiment analysis where 1 was completely negative, 2 was mixed/more negative, 3 was neutral, 4 was mixed/more positive, and 5 was completely positive. The GCs were blinded to participants' perceived adherence scores while performing the sentiment analysis. Of the 242 parents who completed the survey, 161 respondents answered questions about GC's perceived practice resource adherence. The median perceived adherence score was 42.9% (IQR 21.4–71.4)%. A total of 61 people provided an open‐ended response about their prenatal diagnosis experience with a GC and were assigned a sentiment score. The median sentiment score was 3 (IQR 1–5). Kendall's Tau analysis showed that higher perceived practice resource adherence was associated with more positive sentiment scores. These results suggest that NSGC practice resource adherence may improve the prenatal diagnosis experiences of parents of children with DS and have the potential to improve counseling outcomes.
Relationships between amplified quasi‐stationary waves and humid‐heat extremes in the Yangtze River Delta region
Authors: Li Jinglin , Yuan Jiacan , Li Dongdong
Published: July 2024

High humidity combined with high temperature decreases the human body's capability to dissipate heat, causing serious health issues. While increased attention has been paid to changes in humid‐heat extremes under the current climate and in the future, the causes of near‐surface humid‐heat extremes over the Yangtze River Delta region are still unclear. Here we investigate the relationships between quasi‐stationary waves (QSWs), which are atmospheric Rossby waves with phase speed close to zero, and humid‐heat extremes over the Yangtze River Delta region during the summer from 1959 to 2021. Additionally, the potential physical processes that link them are also explored. We find that the QSWs with wavenumber 1–8 present different vertical structures: Wave 1–2 are baroclinic, while Wave 3–8 are barotropic. Wave 1, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8 show phase‐locking behaviour. When the amplitudes of Wave 1, 3, 5 and 6 are higher, the frequency of humid‐heat extremes near the surface at specific locations tends to be higher than the norm. The high‐amplitude waves in different wavenumbers modulate near‐surface temperature and/or humidity in various ways, ultimately resulting in anomalously intensive humid‐heat extremes.
Peri‐operative zoledronic acid attenuates peri‐prosthetic osteolysis in a rat model of cemented knee replacement
Authors: Mann Kenneth A. , Miller Mark A. , Gandhi Sachin A. , Kusler Jace E. , Tatusko Megan E. , Biggs Amy E. , Oest Megan E.
Published: July 2024

Progressive osteolysis can occur at the cement–bone interface of joint replacements and the associated loss of fixation can lead to clinical loosening. We previously developed a rat hemiarthroplasty model that exhibited progressive loss of fixation with the development of cement–bone gaps under the tibial tray that mimicked patterns found in human arthroplasty retrievals. Here we explored the ability of a bisphosphonate (zoledronic acid, ZA) to attenuate cement–bone osteolysis and maintain implant stability. Sprague‐Dawley rats (n = 59) received a poly(methylmethacrylate) cemented tibial component and were followed for up to 12 weeks. Treatment groups included peri‐operative administration of ZA (ZA group), administration of ZA at 6 weeks postop (late ZA group), or vehicle (Veh group). There was a 60% reduction in the rate of cement–bone gap formation for the ZA group (0.15 mm3/week) compared to Veh group (0.38 mm3/week, p = 0.016). Late ZA prevented further progression of gap formation but did not reverse bone loss to the level achieved in the ZA group. Micromotion from five times body weight toggle loading was positively correlated with cement–bone gap volume (p = 0.009) and negatively correlated with the amount of cement in the metaphysis (p = 0.005). Reduced new bone formation and enduring nonviable bone in the epiphysis for the ZA group were found. This suggests that low bone turnover in the epiphysis may suppress the early catabolic response due to implantation, thereby maintaining better fixation in the epiphysis. This preclinical model presents compelling supporting data documenting improved maintenance of the cement–bone fixation with the use of peri‐operative bisphosphonates.
Performance of pan‐enteroscopy in children with intestinal failure due to short bowel syndrome: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Salazar Jonathan A. , Chan Christina , Liu Enju , Hamroud Fatima , Grover Amit S. , Fox Victor L. , Ngo Peter D. , Jimenez Lissette , Duggan Christopher P. , Carey Alexandra N.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

In pediatric patients with intestinal failure (IF) due to short bowel syndrome (SBS), we hypothesized that young children, those with shorter residual small bowel and those with congenital malrotation of the bowel would be more likely to undergo pan‐enteroscopy. We aimed to determine the feasibility and diagnostic yield of pan‐enteroscopy in this cohort.

Methods

We performed a single‐center, retrospective study of pediatric patients with IF due to SBS who had undergone at least one GI endoscopic evaluation between January 1, 2018 and January 1, 2023.

Results

A pan‐enteroscopy might have been possible in 381 of the 431 procedures (206 patients) reviewed. Forty‐four (21%) patients underwent 54 pan‐enteroscopies. Children with a residual bowel length <35 cm had higher odds of undergoing pan‐enteroscopy (odds ratio [OR] 3.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.32, 10.48], p = 0.01), as did patients with periprocedural glucagon‐like peptide 2 (GLP‐2) analog use (OR 4.30, 95% CI [1.24, 14.95], p = 0.02). Patients with diagnoses other than necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) tended to be more likely to achieve a pan‐enteroscopy (OR 2.73, 95% CI [0.95,7.88], p = 0.06). Evidence of gross and histopathologic abnormalities were found in 77.8% and 78% of the procedures, respectively. No complications were identified.

Conclusion

In a large cohort of children with SBS, pan‐enteroscopy was successfully performed in 14.2% of the procedures and microscopic abnormalities were common. Shorter residual bowel length, underlying diagnoses of non‐NEC, and GLP‐2 analog use were generally associated with successful pan‐enteroscopy, independent of age and several other factors. These data suggest that pan‐enteroscopy is feasible and of high‐yield in a subset of patients with SBS.
Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children presenting as acute severe necrotizing pancreatitis: A case report
Authors: Distel Hanna , Hutchins Kelley , Purohit Prashant J. , Bégué Rodolfo E.
Published: July 2024

We report a case of moderately severe acute pancreatitis, hyperglycemia, acidosis, splenic, superior mesenteric, and portal vein thrombosis in relation to multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C). The patient responded well to intravenous immune globulin, corticosteroids, antibiotics, systemic anticoagulation, and drainage of peripancreatic fluid. The case highlights the polymorphic presentation of MIS‐C and advises high level of suspicion for unusual, severe cases unresponsive to routine care.
Genetic analysis of popping quality traits and development of superior quality popcorn hybrids for a sustainable popcorn breeding program in India
Authors: Gopinath Ikkurti , Hossain Firoz , Zunjare Rajkumar U , Thambiyannan Selvakumar , Kumar Santosh , Bhatt Vinay , Chand Gulab , Veluchamy Sathya Sheela KR , Kumar Bhupender , Sekhar Javaji C. , Singh Gyanendra , Rajasekaran Ravikesavan , Muthusamy Vignesh
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Popcorn is the most popular specialty maize and it makes a significant contribution to the Indian and global economies. Despite perfect exploration of heterosis in field corn, progress in popcorn breeding remains constrained due to its narrow genetic base, leading to a significant dependence on imports. In this study, 15 landrace‐ and population‐derived inbreds from temperate and tropical germplasm were crossed with five testers, which are the parents of superior popcorn hybrids, in a line × tester mating design.

RESULTS

Significant variation was observed in popping quality and agronomic traits among crosses evaluated across three locations representing diverse maize‐based agro‐climatic zones in India. Additive genetic variance governed the traits related to popping quality, whereas dominance variance was responsible for the agronomic traits. In addition to significant heterosis specific to certain traits, we identified promising crosses that exhibited superior performance in both popping quality and grain yield (GY). The genotype + genotype × environment (GGE) biplot methodology identified PMI‐PC‐104 and PMI‐PC‐101 as the best discriminating testers for popping quality traits and Dpcl‐15‐90 for GY. Lines PMI‐PC‐205, PMI‐PC‐207, and PMI‐PC‐209 were the best general combiners for popping quality traits and GY. The heterotic groups identified based on GGE‐biplots and the magnitude, direction and stability of combining ability effects would serve in the development of competitive popcorn hybrids for a sustainable popcorn market.

CONCLUSION

Using the additive nature of popping quality traits and the dominant nature of GY, recurrent intrapopulation selection can be employed to derive desirable popping quality inbreds with high GY for genetic enhancement. Desirable popping quality alleles from novel germplasm can thus be combined with high‐yielding domestic elite inbreds to establish a sustainable popcorn breeding program. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.