bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular mechanism of acetylated distarch phosphate with pea protein isolate to improve the gel quality of myofibrillar protein gel
Authors: Jiang Wenting , Wu Jiulin , Yang Fujia , Chen Xu , Chen Meizhen , Huang Jianlian , Wu Jinhong , Wan Shuo , Cai Xixi , Wang Shaoyun
Published: July 2024

It is crucial to improve the gel properties of myofibrillar protein (MP) in the production of surimi products. This study investigated the effects of combining acetylated distarch phosphate (ADSP) with pea protein isolate (PPI) as exogenous additives on the physicochemical properties of Larimichthys crocea MP gel and elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying the improvement of MP gel quality. The results showed that the mixture of 3% ADSP and 1% PPI increased the MP gel strength to 2.1 times and water holding capacity to 1.8 times. The rheological properties during thermal‐induced gelation were improved, and the surface roughness of gel microstructure was reduced. The protein conformation was stabilized by enhancing surface hydrophobicity and sulfhydryl content, and the gels showed trends of decreasing α‐helix and increasing random coils. Correlation and cluster analysis showed that physicochemical properties of MP gels were closely related to the changes of protein structure and the denaturation of active groups. The molecular interaction between ADSP, PPI, and MP and the mechanism of enhancing the properties and functions of MP gel were further clarified. These findings highlight the feasibility of ADSP–PPI as an effective strategy to improve the quality of fish MP gel.
Whey protein hydrolysate intervention ameliorates memory deficits in APP/PS1 mice: Unveiling gut microbe–short‐chain fatty acid–brain axis
Authors: Zhou Yongjie , Meng Hanxiu , Ding Ning , Hong Hui , Luo Yongkang , Wu Chao , Tan Yuqing
Published: July 2024

The intricate causes of Alzheimer's disease (AD) hinder effective, lasting treatment. Although the dietary modulation of the brain–gut axis was explored for AD therapy, the exact mechanism remains unclear. This study suggested that 140 days of the whey protein hydrolysate (WPH) intake could attenuate the AD pathologic symptoms in APP/PS1 transgenic mice via a bidirectional action of the gut microbe–SCFA (short‐chain fatty acid)–brain axis. Behavioral tests demonstrated that high‐dose WPH (WPH‐H, 100 mg/kg body weight [bw]) improved passive and recognition memory in mice. Furthermore, WPH‐H significantly reduced amyloid beta 1–42 (Aβ1–42) levels in serum (p < .05) and brain (p < .001) while enhancing serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (p < .01). Brain acetylcholinesterase (p < .01) activity and pro‐inflammatory factors in serum were also reduced. Notably, WPH‐H remodeled gut microbiota composition by increasing Dubosiella and decreasing Bacteroides and norank_f__Ruminococcaceae while stimulating SCFA production. Proteomics indicated that WPH enhanced neurotoxic Aβ autophagy, synaptogenesis, neurotransmitter delivery, and antioxidative stress response via regulated protein expression. Correlation analysis revealed strong links between modified gut microbiota, elevated SCFA levels, and hippocampal protein up‐regulation (Atg4b, Nsfl1c, Tcf20, Nr2f1, and Trappc9) and down‐regulation (Krt1). Overall, the amelioration of memory deficits in APP/PS1 mice through WPH‐H consumption can be attributed to the interconnected interactions among gut microbes, SCFAs, and brain. Our study illuminated the intricate interplay between nutrition, gut health, and memory function, emphasizing WPH's potential in alleviating AD symptoms.
Incidence and patterns of lymph node metastases in head and neck rhabdomyosarcoma: One‐institution study
Authors: Wang Tian , Wang Jie , Li Qiang , Li Yi , Song Xinmao
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Head and neck rhabdomyosarcoma (HNRMS) is an aggressive malignant soft tissue tumor that easily develops lymph node metastasis (LNM) and distant metastasis. No literature investigates the pattern of LNM in HNRMS.

Methods

Ninety‐five consecutive patients with HNRMS newly diagnosed at one institution between November 2011 and July 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. All the patients underwent head and neck contrast‐enhanced MRI and/or CT, PET‐CT if necessary. The associations between LNMs and clinical characteristics and histopathological parameters were discovered.

Results

44.2% of patients had evidence of LNM at diagnosis, and the most common LNM occurred in the ipsilateral retropharyngeal space. The primary tumor metastasizes to the retropharyngeal space, and then next to level II is the most common LN drainage basin. In multivariate analysis, only distant metastasis determines the prognosis, other than LN status.

Conclusions

LNM has a high incidence in HNRMS and rarely causes contralateral metastasis for localized lesions or skip metastasis.
Recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia
Authors: Iolascon Achille , Andolfo Immacolata , Russo Roberta , Sanchez Mayka , Busti Fabiana , Swinkels Dorine , Aguilar Martinez Patricia , Bou‐Fakhredin Rayan , Muckenthaler Martina U. , Unal Sule , Porto Graça , Ganz Tomas , Kattamis Antonis , De Franceschi Lucia , Cappellini Maria Domenica , Munro Malcolm G. , Taher Ali ,   from EHA‐SWG Red Cell and Iron
Published: July 2024

Iron is an essential nutrient and a constituent of ferroproteins and enzymes crucial for human life. Generally, nonmenstruating individuals preserve iron very efficiently, losing less than 0.1% of their body iron content each day, an amount that is replaced through dietary iron absorption. Most of the iron is in the hemoglobin (Hb) of red blood cells (RBCs); thus, blood loss is the most common cause of acute iron depletion and anemia worldwide, and reduced hemoglobin synthesis and anemia are the most common consequences of low plasma iron concentrations. The term iron deficiency (ID) refers to the reduction of total body iron stores due to impaired nutrition, reduced absorption secondary to gastrointestinal conditions, increased blood loss, and increased needs as in pregnancy. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is defined as low Hb or hematocrit associated with microcytic and hypochromic erythrocytes and low RBC count due to iron deficiency. IDA most commonly affects women of reproductive age, the developing fetus, children, patients with chronic and inflammatory diseases, and the elderly. IDA is the most frequent hematological disorder in children, with an incidence in industrialized countries of 20.1% between 0 and 4 years of age and 5.9% between 5 and 14 years (39% and 48.1% in developing countries). The diagnosis, management, and treatment of patients with ID and IDA change depending on age and gender and during pregnancy. We herein summarize what is known about the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of ID and IDA and formulate a specific set of recommendations on this topic.
Oncogenic and immunological targets for matched therapy of pediatric blood cancer patients: Dutch iTHER study experience
Authors: Boer Judith M. , Ilan Uri , Boeree Aurélie , Langenberg Karin P. S. , Koster Jan , Koudijs Marco J. , Hehir‐Kwa Jayne Y. , Nierkens Stefan , Rossi Corinne , Molenaar Jan J. , Goemans Bianca F. , den Boer Monique L. , Zwaan C. Michel
Published: July 2024

Over the past 10 years, institutional and national molecular tumor boards have been implemented for relapsed or refractory pediatric cancer to prioritize targeted drugs for individualized treatment based on actionable oncogenic lesions, including the Dutch iTHER platform. Hematological malignancies form a minority in precision medicine studies. Here, we report on 56 iTHER leukemia/lymphoma patients for which we considered cell surface markers and oncogenic aberrations as actionable events, supplemented with ex vivo drug sensitivity for six patients. Prior to iTHER registration, 34% of the patients had received allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and 18% CAR‐T therapy. For 51 patients (91%), a sample with sufficient tumor percentage (≥20%) required for comprehensive diagnostic testing was obtained. Up to 10 oncogenic actionable events were prioritized in 49/51 patients, and immunotherapy targets were identified in all profiled patients. Targeted treatment(s) based on the iTHER advice was given to 24 of 51 patients (47%), including immunotherapy in 17 patients, a targeted drug matching an oncogenic aberration in 12 patients, and a drug based on ex vivo drug sensitivity in one patient, resulting in objective responses and a bridge to HCT in the majority of the patients. In conclusion, comprehensive profiling of relapsed/refractory hematological malignancies showed multiple oncogenic and immunotherapy targets for a precision medicine approach, which requires multidisciplinary expertise to prioritize the best treatment options for this rare, heavily pretreated pediatric population.
The reversed circular flow jet impingement (RCFJI) PV/T collector: Thermohydraulic and electrohydraulic analysis
Authors: Ishak Muhammad Amir Aziat Bin , Ibrahim Adnan
Published: July 2024

Solar energy could be used to generate both electricity and heat with the aid of photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) systems. Although the systems have a variety of advantages, they nevertheless hold a significant constraint. The system suffers a susceptible constraint wherein the photovoltaic (PV) module experiences an increase in temperature due to exposure to solar irradiation. The integration of a cooling system is necessary to enhance its operational efficiency. A novel approach, known as the reversed circular flow jet impingement (RCFJI), was proposed as a means to improve the performance of a PV/T collector. The current work seeks to assess the thermohydraulic and electrohydraulic performance of the RCFJI PV/T collector. The experiment was conducted under an irradiance level of 500–900 W/m2. From the result obtained, the thermohydraulic efficiency reached its maximum value of 59.20% under 900 W/m2 at 0.14 kg/s. Conversely, the electrohydraulic efficiency attained the highest reading of 10.91% under 500 W/m2 at 0.13 kg/s. It was concluded that a higher flow rate reduces the friction coefficient while increasing the pressure drop. The thermohydraulic and electrohydraulic analyses emphasize the importance of assessing the friction coefficient and pressure drop to attain optimal performance. This study addresses the lack of research by presenting a new cooling approach that utilizes jet impingement. In addition, this study provides an understanding of the thermohydraulic and electrohydraulic performance of a RCFJI PV/T collector.
COVID‐19 vaccinated children, adolescents, and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia show spike reactive antibodies and multifunctional T‐cells
Authors: Parker Rebecca S. , Le Justin , Villa Miguel , Luong Annie , Lin Tsen Yin , Lee Yesun , Doan Andrew , Aguayo‐Hiraldo Paibel , Pannaraj Pia S. , Yoon Seon‐Jae , Wallace William Dean , Armstrong April , O'Gorman Maurice R. , Bard Jennifer Dien , Parekh Chintan
Published: July 2024

Little is known about the efficacy of COVID‐19 vaccines during acute lymphoblastic leukemia therapy (ALL); data for COVID‐19 vaccine immune responses in pediatric leukemia remain sparse. We conducted a single center study of patients aged 5–25 years undergoing ALL chemotherapy who received COVID‐19 vaccination. Twenty‐one patients were enrolled; efficacy was evaluable in 20. Twenty were vaccinated while receiving chemotherapy. Twenty received the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine. Spike reactive antibodies (S‐IgG) and/or T‐cells (SRT) were detected in 16 of 20 (80%) vaccinated patients; 13 (65%) and 9 (45%) were positive for S‐IgG and SRT, respectively. Six (30%) showed both spike reactive B and T‐cell responses. Eleven of the 13 with S‐IgG positivity were negative for anti‐Nucleocapsid IgG, an antibody profile consistent with a vaccine induced immune response. All 13S‐IgG+ patients showed neutralizing antibodies. SRT included CD4+ (7) and CD8+ (6) T‐cells; both CD4+ and CD8+ SRT were seen in 4. SRT were multifunctional (producing multiple cytokines) in most patients (8 of 9); 4 showed SRT with triple cytokine and B‐cell co‐stimulatory responses, indicating a multimodal adaptive immune response. Immune responses were seen among patients vaccinated in the settings of lymphopenia (6 of 12) intensive chemotherapy (3 of 4), and Peg allergy (6 of 8). Sequencing revealed public CD4+ and CD8+ TCR sequences reactive to epitopes across the spike protein. In conclusion, COVID‐19 vaccination induced B and/or T‐cell responses in a majority of children and young adults undergoing ALL chemotherapy.
A framework to examine the potential social influence of scientists and nongovernmental organizations in marine conservation
Authors: Li Minhui , Lee Tien M. , Zhang Xiong
Published: July 2024

Effective marine conservation requires science‐based decisions and strong support from the public and local communities. Understanding the potential social influence of scientists and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in marine conservation is key, yet this aspect has been underexplored in conservation social science. In this study, we created a simple index of potential social influence (PSII) for scientists and NGOs, initiating an analytical framework to identify key variables correlated with the PSII and their underlying pathways. We illustrated this framework using China as a case study, where marine conservation advancement is urgently needed. Our results indicated that many of the variables we identified were correlated with the PSII, even though some are rarely mentioned in the related literature. Notably, both communication capability and annual funding positively impacted the potential social influence of scientists and NGOs, albeit through different pathways. This study provides valuable insights to enhance marine conservation efforts in China and addresses a critical research gap in assessing social influence on nature conservation.
Identification of novel variants in BRF1 gene from patient with developmental delay, hearing abnormality, and nervous system anomalies
Authors: Yin Hongwei , Yu Yonglin , Shen Yingying
Published: July 2024

Cerebellofaciodental syndrome characterized with dysmorphic features, intellectual disability, and brain anomalies. Now its clinical spectrum expanded more manifestations including bilateral sensorineural hearing impairment and inner ear malformation. Here, we report a 14‐month‐old boy with global developmental delay and hearing disorder. Whole exome sequencing (WES) revealed the compound heterozygous variants [NM_001519.4: c.652 T > G (p.W218G); c.915 + 1G > T] in the BRF1 gene which inherited from his parents, respectively. The MRI results showed hypoplastic cerebellar vermis, enlarged cisterna magna, and prominent fourth ventricle, the rehabilitation therapy failed to improve the symptoms for our patient. Our finding expands the genetic spectrum of BRF1 variants, which indicates patients with the developmental delay caused by BRF1 variants require other treatments instead of rehabilitation.
Potential nanomedicinal applications and physicochemical nature of Hyphaene thebaica‐reduced nano‐samaria
Authors: Mohamed Hamza Elsayed Ahmad , Khalil Ali Talha , Hkiri Khaoula , Ayaz Muhammad , Usman Assad , Sadiq Abdul , Ullah Farhat , Khan Muhammad Arif , Ullah Ikram , Maaza Malik
Published: July 2024

Herein we described the biofabrication of samarium oxide nanoparticles (HT‐Sm2O3 NPs) by applying the aqueous fruit extract of Hyphaene thebaica was utilized as an eco‐friendly chelating agent. The prepared NPs were subjected to various physicochemical properties and potential in biomedical applications. X‐ray Diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed sharp peaks that corroborated with the Joint Committee on Powder Diffraction Standards (JCPDS) card no. 00–042‐1464. Crystallite size obtained from Debye–Scherrer approximation and Williamson–Hall (W–H) plot was 28.73 and 69.3 nm, respectively. Optical bandgap was calculated by employing Kubelka–Munk (K–M) function and was found to be ~4.58 eV. Raman shift was observed at 121, 351, 424—, and 561 cm−1. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra revealed two major peaks positioned at 360 and 540 nm. The high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) analysis of HT‐Sm2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) showed that they predominantly have spherical to cuboidal shapes. Additionally, the selected area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern presented spotty rings, indicating a high level of crystallinity in these NPs. The potential nanomedicine applications were studied using diverse bioassays using different treatments. The antioxidant activity demonstrated 45.71% ± 1.13% inhibition at 1000 μg/mL. Brine shrimp lethality assay revealed the highest cytotoxicity of 46.67% ± 3.33% at 1000 μg/mL and LC50 value of 1081 μg/mL. HT‐Sm2O3 NPs exhibited inhibition of angiogenesis (20.41% ± 1.18%) at of 1000 μg/mL. MTT assay results indicated that HT‐Sm2O3 NPs exhibit inhibitory effects on cell lines. Specifically, these NPs showed an IC50 value of 104.6 μg/mL against 3T3 cells. Against MCF‐7 cells, the NPs demonstrated an IC50 value of 413.25 μg/mL. Additionally, in the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), the newly synthesized NPs showed an IC50 value of 320 μg/mL. The antidiabetic assessment through α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase inhibition assays revealed, an IC50 value of 380 μg/mL for α‐glucosidase and 952 μg/mL for α‐amylase was calculated. Overall, our study suggested that the Sm2O3 NPs possess moderate anticancer, cholinesterase inhibition, and antidiabetic potential, however, needs further assessment.

Research Highlights

In this work, nano‐samaria is synthesized using an eco‐friendly and green approach.

The nanoparticles were characterized using techniques such as Raman, HR‐TEM, FTIR, DRS, XRD, and so on, and the applications were studied using multiple in vitro bioassays for Diabetes, Alzheimer, and Cancer.

The nano‐samaria revealed good potential for potential biomedical applications.
COVID‐19 vaccine mistrust, health literacy, conspiracy theories, and racial discrimination among a representative ethnically diverse sample in Canada: The vulnerability of Arab, Asian, Black, and Indigenous peoples
Authors: Cénat Jude Mary , Moshirian Farahi Seyed Mohammad Mahdi , Dalexis Rose Darly , Caulley Lisa , Xu Yan , Beogo Idrissa , Pongou Roland
Published: July 2024

Despite increased risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections and higher rates of COVID‐19‐related complications, racialized and Indigenous communities in Canada have lower immunization uptake compared to White individuals. However, there is woeful lack of data on predictors of COVID‐19 vaccine mistrust (VM) that accounts for diverse social and cultural contexts within specific racialized and Indigenous communities. Therefore, we sought to characterize COVID‐19 VM among Arab, Asian, Black, and Indigenous communities in Canada. An online survey was administered to a nationally representative, ethnically diverse panel of participants in October 2023. Arabic, Asian, Indigenous, and Black respondents were enriched in the sampling panel. Data were collected on demographics, COVID‐19 VM, experience of racial discrimination, health literacy, and conspiracy beliefs. We used descriptive and regression analyses to determine the extent and predictors of COVID‐19 VM among racialized and Indigenous individuals. All racialized respondents had higher VM score compared to White participants. Among 4220 respondents, we observed highest VM among Black individuals (12.18; ±4.24), followed by Arabic (12.12; ±4.60), Indigenous (11.84; ±5.18), Asian (10.61; ±4.28), and White (9.58; ±5.00) participants. In the hierarchical linear regression analyses, Black participants, women, everyday racial discrimination, and major experience of discrimination were positively associated with COVID‐19 VM. Effects of racial discrimination were mediated by addition of conspiracy beliefs to the model. Racialized and Indigenous communities experience varying levels of COVID‐19 VM and carry specific predictors and mediators to development of VM. This underscores the intricate interaction between race, gender, discrimination, and VM that need to be considered in future vaccination campaigns.
Deciphering the Mechanisms and Biotechnological Implications of Nanoparticle Synthesis Through Microbial Consortia
Authors: Singh Vandana , Pandit Chetan , Pandit Soumya , Roy Arpita , Rustagi Sarvesh , Awwad Nasser S. , Ibrahium Hala A. , Anand Jigisha , Malik Sumira , Yadav Krishna Kumar , Tambuwala Murtaza
Published: July 2024

Nanomaterial synthesis is a growing study area because of its extensive range of uses. Nanoparticles' high surface‐to‐volume ratio and rapid interaction with various particles make them appealing for diverse applications. Traditional physical and chemical methods for creating metal nanoparticles are becoming outdated because they involve complex manufacturing processes, high energy consumption, and the formation of harmful by‐products that pose major dangers to human health and the environment. Therefore, there is an increasing need to find alternative, cost‐effective, dependable, biocompatible, and environmentally acceptable ways of producing nanoparticles. The process of synthesizing nanoparticles using microbes has become highly intriguing because of their ability to create nanoparticles of varying sizes, shapes, and compositions, each with unique physicochemical properties. Microbes are commonly used in nanoparticle production because they are easy to work with, can use low‐cost materials, such as agricultural waste, are cheap to scale up, and can adsorb and reduce metal ions into nanoparticles through metabolic activities. Biogenic synthesis of nanoparticles provides a clean, nontoxic, ecologically friendly, and sustainable method using renewable ingredients for reducing metals and stabilizing nanoparticles. Nanomaterials produced by bacteria can serve as an effective pollution control method due to their many functional groups that can effectively target contaminants for efficient bioremediation, aiding in environmental cleanup. At the end of the paper, we will discuss the obstacles that hinder the use of biosynthesized nanoparticles and microbial‐based nanoparticles. The paper aims to explore the sustainability of microorganisms in the burgeoning field of green nanotechnology.
Enhanced enchondroma detection from x‐ray images using deep learning: A step towards accurate and cost‐effective diagnosis
Authors: Aydin Şimşek Şafak , Aydin Ayhan , Say Ferhat , Cengiz Tolgahan , Özcan Caner , Öztürk Mesut , Okay Erhan , Özkan Korhan
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the automated detection of enchondromas, benign cartilage tumors, from x‐ray images using deep learning techniques. Enchondromas pose diagnostic challenges due to their potential for malignant transformation and overlapping radiographic features with other conditions. Leveraging a data set comprising 1645 x‐ray images from 1173 patients, a deep‐learning model implemented with Detectron2 achieved an accuracy of 0.9899 in detecting enchondromas. The study employed rigorous validation processes and compared its findings with the existing literature, highlighting the superior performance of the deep learning approach. Results indicate the potential of machine learning in improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing healthcare costs associated with advanced imaging modalities. The study underscores the significance of early and accurate detection of enchondromas for effective patient management and suggests avenues for further research in musculoskeletal tumor detection.
Preparative separation of the constituents from Ginkgo biloba L. leaves by a combination of multi‐stage solvent extraction and countercurrent chromatography
Authors: Liu Zhuo , Tian Peng , Li Luqi , Guo Jinxing , Zhou Yi , Liu Shuhui , Yang Zhi
Published: July 2024

In this study, we employed a combination approach for the preparative separation of constituents from Ginkgo biloba L. leaves. It involved multi‐stage solvent extractions utilizing two‐phase multi‐solvent systems and countercurrent chromatography (CCC) separations using three different solvent systems. The n‐heptane/ethyl acetate/water (1:1:2, v/v) and n‐heptane/ethyl acetate/methanol/water (HepEMWat, 7:3:7:3, v/v) solvent systems were screened out as extraction systems. The polarities of the upper and lower phases in the multi‐solvent systems were adjustable, enabling the effectively segmented separation of complex constituents in G. biloba L. The segmented products were subsequently directly utilized as samples and separated using CCC with the solvent systems acetate/n‐butanol/water (4:1:5, v/v), HepEMWat (5:5:5:5, v/v), and HepEMWat (9:1:9:1, v/v), respectively. As a result, a total of 11 compounds were successfully isolated and identified from a 2 g methanol extract of G. biloba L through two‐stage extraction and three CCC separation processes; among them, nine compounds exhibited high‐performance liquid chromatography purity exceeding 85%.
LOXL2 in non‐alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH): Insights into fibrosis pathogenesis and therapeutic potential
Authors: Immanuel Joys Rachel , Kumar Rajnish , Agrahari Ashish Kumar , Asthana Shailendra
Published: July 2024

Liver fibrosis involves increased extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, with lysyl oxidase‐like 2 (LOXL2) emerging as a key player due to its upregulation in fibrotic tissue. As a member of the lysyl oxidase protein family, LOXL2 contributes to ECM accumulation and remodelling through fibre cross‐linking. Its aberrant expression in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) implicates it in liver fibrosis. LOXL2 promotes fibrosis by activating hepatic stellate cells, cross‐linking ECM proteins, and influencing oxidative stress, inflammation and lipid metabolism. Preclinical studies on LOXL2 inhibitors show promise in reducing fibrosis and improving liver function. Ongoing clinical trials further highlight LOXL2 as a potential anti‐fibrotic target. However, challenges such as species differences, tissue‐specific effects and the complexity of NASH pathogenesis require additional research. Understanding LOXL2's role in NASH will aid in developing effective treatments for NASH‐related fibrosis and liver damage.
The beneficial hepatic effects of glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonists in patients with diabetes and metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease are independent of weight loss
Authors: Forlano Roberta , Malik Huma , Mullish Benjamin H. , Yee Michael , Izzi‐Engbeaya Chioma , Manousou Pinelopi
Published: July 2024

Background

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide. Despite resmetirom being recently approved for treatingnon‐cirrhotic MASH patients in the United States of America (but not elsewhere), weight loss and lifestyle remain the first line and mainstay for treating the condition. Glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) have shown promise in MASLD treatment, as they promote significant weight loss.

Aims

In this study, we assessed the effect of long‐term GLP‐1 therapy on liver disease severity in a cohort of patients with Type 2 diabetes and MASLD.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective observational study, we included all new MASLD patients seen in the liver clinic (Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust) from January 2010 to May 2022. Demographic, anthropometric and clinical data were collected at baseline and at the most recent follow‐up.

Results

779 patients were included. Among those with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (n = 335), 94 (28%) were prescribed a GLP‐1RA for a median period of 38 (1–171.2) months. In those on GLP‐1RA, there was a significant improvement in BMI (33.1 vs. 34.9 kg/m2, p = 0.005), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (37 vs. 58 IU/L, p = 0.009), HbA1c (58 vs. 61 mmol/lL, p = 0.006) and CAP score (331 vs. 354 dB/m, p = 0.0001) at the end of follow‐up. Finally, among those who were treated with GLP‐1RA, 37 patients had <5% weight loss over a median of 38 (10–134) months. In this group, there was also a significant reduction in ALT (32 vs. 58 IU/L, p = 0.0001), AST (30 vs. 36 IU/L, p = 0.004) and CAP score (329 vs. 349 dB/m, p = 0.05) compared with those who lost >5% weight. In this real‐life cohort of patients with diabetes and MASLD, treatment with GLP‐1RA was associated with greater weight loss and hepatic fat reduction. Of note, a reduction in fat content was observed also in those who did not lose weight.

Conclusion

Treatment with GLP‐1RA should be favoured when treating patients with co‐existing diabetes and MASLD.
Sustainable Low‐Alcohol Beer Production by Combination of Membrane Osmotic Distillation and Pervaporation
Authors: Esteras‐Saz Javier , Maach Amina , de la Iglesia Óscar , Fumanal Antonio J. , Kumakiri Izumi , Téllez Carlos , Coronas Joaquín
Published: July 2024

Membrane osmotic distillation (OD) is applied in this work for the partial dealcoholization of beer (5.2 v/v% alcohol content) to diminish its ethanol content by around 50% giving rise to a low alcohol beer. A compromise is sought between the low alcoholic degree achieved and beer sensory properties. Moreover, the feasibility of the membrane OD process intensification is studied thanks to its combination with membrane pervaporation (PV). Two successive PV stages, one hydrophobic and the other hydrophilic, allow the production of recycled water (with less than 0.5 wt% ethanol) for the membrane OD operation and bioethanol (99% ethanol) as valuable byproduct.
Fractional operators with homogeneous kernel on the Calderón product of Morrey spaces
Authors: Salim Daniel , Hakiki Moch. Taufik , Sawano Yoshihiro , Hakim Denny Ivanal , Jamaludin Muhamad
Published: July 2024

We investigate fractional operators with homogeneous kernel in Morrey spaces. In particular, we prove that fractional integral operators and fractional maximal operators with homogeneous kernel are bounded from the Calderón product of Morrey spaces to certain Morrey spaces. Our results can be seen as a generalization of a recent result on the relation between the boundedness of (classical) fractional operators and interpolation of Morrey spaces. What is new about this paper is not only the passage from the classical fractional integral operators to the rough integral operators. Even the case of fractional integral operators, handled in earlier papers, is significantly simplified.
A General Approach for Photo‐Oxidative Degradation of Various Polymers
Authors: Michelas Maxime , Wimberger Laura , Boyer Cyrille
Published: July 2024

The escalating demand for plastics has resulted in a surge of plastic waste worldwide, posing a monumental environmental challenge. To address this issue, a versatile photo‐oxidative degradation method applicable to seven distinct polymer families is proposed, comprising poly(isobutyl vinyl ether) (PIBVE), poly(2,3‐dihydrofuran) (PDHF), poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc), poly(n‐butyl acrylate) (PBA), poly(methyl acrylate) (PMA), poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), poly(dimethyl acrylamide) (PDMA), poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate) (PEGMEA), and even poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). This method employs photo‐mediated hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) followed by oxidation to promote polymer degradation. This reaction is carried out under aerobic condition in the presence of iron trichloride (FeCl3) as a photocatalyst in combination with low‐intensity purple light irradiation. The process can degrade up to 97% of the polymer in less than 3 h. This degradation process can be easily controlled by switching the light off, which allows for precise modulation of the degradation rate, enhancing the effectiveness of the method. Overall, this method provides a sustainable method for degrading various polymer types with low energy input.
High Strength UV‐Resistant Composite Film of Fe3+‐Coordination Lignin/PVA
Authors: Zhang Xin , Qiao Shanpeng , Zhang Hong , Wang Bo , Zeng Xu , Ren Bo , Yang Xiaodong
Published: July 2024

The literature on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films is extensive, however, these methods often necessitate intricate synthesis processes or the addition of plasticizers to modify the strength and water solubility of the PVA material. A high‐strength UV radiation‐resistant composite film by chelating Fe3+ with lignin and PVA, which exhibits excellent hydrolysis resistance is developed. This composite film is prepared simply by incorporating a small amount of dealkalized lignin (APPL) and ferric chloride (FeCl3) into PVA through a straightforward composite process. During the scanning test, it is noted that the film exhibits a high density of uniformly dispersed particles, endowing it with efficient ultraviolet absorption capabilities. The infrared and anti‐dissolution tests reveal that the coordination of Fe3+ with lignin imparts an outstanding hydrolysis resistance to the film, obviating the need for any extender, curing agent, acid or base. The tensile fracture strength reaches an impressive 187.81Mpa in the tensile test. UV and indicator card tests unequivocally demonstrate that the film achieves a remarkable 100% anti‐UV efficiency. This Fe3+ chelated lignin/PVA composite film, with its facile preparation, environmental sustainability, high strength, and outstanding anti‐ultraviolet efficiency, can be deployed across diverse applications requiring robust protection against ultraviolet radiation.
Detection of minimal hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis based on the Stroop‐CN model (NCRCID‐CHESS 2106): a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Liu Shanghao , Guo Ying , Zu Hongmei , Xiang Huiling , Yang Shaoqi , Zhang Xiaoning , Meng Fanping , Bianba Yangzhen , Li Jie , Liu Fei , Lei Chuang , Lv Jiaojian , Yang Qiao‐hua , Fu Wei , Ye Wei , Chen Jiafang , Gao Yanjing , Wu Caiyun , Wang Ningning , Zheng Qi , Wang Fang , Yu Jiali , Wang Jing , Yang Xiaoting , Wang Xiangmei , Liu Yayuan , Zhao Xuelan , Wu Chenxi , Gou Wei , Bajaj Jasmohan S. , Wang Fu‐Sheng , Fu Junliang , Qi Xiaolong
Published: July 2024

Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) has a substantial impact on the clinical outcomes and quality of life (QOL) of patients with cirrhosis. However, timely diagnosis and intervention are challenging due to sophisticated diagnostic methods. In this study, 673 healthy controls and 905 patients with cirrhosis were screened, and 660 healthy controls and 757 patients with cirrhosis, divided into the test (292 patients) and validation (465 patients) cohort, were analyzed after screening. A diagnostic model of the Stroop test (Stroop‐CN) was constructed by multivariate linear regression based on the results of healthy controls. The prevalence of MHE and the comparison results with psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score through the Stroop‐CN model were stable in the test and validation cohorts. Moreover, the prevalence of MHE remained significantly higher in patients with worse disease conditions marked as high Child–Pugh grades and the Model for End‐stage Liver Disease and Sodium (MELD‐Na) scores in the test and validation cohort. The EuroQol 5‐D questionnaire revealed that patients with MHE had a worse QOL than those without MHE both in the test and validation cohort. In conclusion, an easy and practical Stroop‐CN model for MHE diagnosis based on the EncephalApp is established. It is found that a considerable number of Chinese patients with cirrhosis experience MHE, which significantly impacts their QOL.
Single‐cell atlas of peripheral blood by CyTOF revealed peripheral blood immune cells metabolic alterations and neutrophil changes in intracranial aneurysm rupture
Authors: Ya Xiaolong , Liu Chenglong , Ma Long , Ge Peicong , Xu Xiaoxue , Zheng Zhiyao , Mou Siqi , Wang Rong , Zhang Qian , Ye Xun , Zhang Dong , Zhang Yan , Wang Wenjing , Li Hao , Zhao Jizong
Published: July 2024

Previous studies have found that the peripheral immune environment is closely related to the occurrence and development of intracranial aneurysms. However, it remains unclear how the metabolism of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and the composition of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) changes in the process of intracranial aneurysm rupture. This study utilized cytometry by time of flight technology to conduct single‐cell profiling analysis of PBMCs and PMNs from 72 patients with IAs. By comparing the expression differences of key metabolic enzymes in PBMCs between patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIAs) and unruptured intracranial aneurysms, we found that most PBMCs subsets from RIA group showed upregulation of rate‐limiting enzymes related to the glycolytic pathway. By comparing the composition of PMNs, it was found that the proinflammatory CD101+HLA DR+ subsets were increased in the RIA group, accompanied by a decrease in the anti‐inflammatory polymorphonuclear myeloid‐derived suppressor cells. In conclusion, this study showed the changes in the peripheral immune profile of RIAs, which is helpful for our understanding of the mechanisms underlying peripheral changes and provides a direction for future related research.
A deep learning anthropomorphic model observer for a detection task in PET
Authors: Shao Muhan , Byrd Darrin W. , Mitra Jhimli , Behnia Fatemeh , Lee Jean H. , Iravani Amir , Sadic Murat , Chen Delphine L. , Wollenweber Scott D. , Abbey Craig K. , Kinahan Paul E. , Ahn Sangtae
Published: July 2024

Background

Lesion detection is one of the most important clinical tasks in positron emission tomography (PET) for oncology. An anthropomorphic model observer (MO) designed to replicate human observers (HOs) in a detection task is an important tool for assessing task‐based image quality. The channelized Hotelling observer (CHO) has been the most popular anthropomorphic MO. Recently, deep learning MOs (DLMOs), mostly based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs), have been investigated for various imaging modalities. However, there have been few studies on DLMOs for PET.

Purpose

The goal of the study is to investigate whether DLMOs can predict HOs better than conventional MOs such as CHO in a two‐alternative forced‐choice (2AFC) detection task using PET images with real anatomical variability.

Methods

Two types of DLMOs were implemented: (1) CNN DLMO, and (2) CNN‐SwinT DLMO that combines CNN and Swin Transformer (SwinT) encoders. Lesion‐absent PET images were reconstructed from clinical data, and lesion‐present images were reconstructed with adding simulated lesion sinogram data. Lesion‐present and lesion‐absent PET image pairs were labeled by eight HOs consisting of four radiologists and four image scientists in a 2AFC detection task. In total, 2268 pairs of lesion‐present and lesion‐absent images were used for training, 324 pairs for validation, and 324 pairs for test. CNN DLMO, CNN‐SwinT DLMO, CHO with internal noise, and non‐prewhitening matched filter (NPWMF) were compared in the same train‐test paradigm. For comparison, six quantitative metrics including prediction accuracy, mean squared errors (MSEs) and correlation coefficients, which measure how well a MO predicts HOs, were calculated in a 9‐fold cross‐validation experiment.

Results

In terms of the accuracy and MSE metrics, CNN DLMO and CNN‐SwinT DLMO showed better performance than CHO and NPWMF, and CNN‐SwinT DLMO showed the best performance among the MOs evaluated.

Conclusions

DLMO can predict HOs more accurately than conventional MOs such as CHO in PET lesion detection. Combining SwinT and CNN encoders can improve the DLMO prediction performance compared to using CNN only.
Preparation of superhydrophobic carbon fiber composite surface with excellent durability
Authors: Xu Yuan , Zhang Fangyuan , Ren Shuaiyang , Shi Binghong , Li Peiwen , Ma Hailang , Li Jianwei , Zhang Fengwei
Published: July 2024

Super‐hydrophobic surface has excellent waterproof, self‐cleaning and delayed icing properties, and is widely used in various fields, but its lack of durability restricts its large‐scale use. In this paper, carbon fiber composite material with excellent mechanical properties is selected as the substrate, PTFE nanoparticles with excellent hydrophobicity are used as the surface energy substance, and metal screen is selected as the template, combined with hot pressing molding process, a super‐hydrophobic surface with multi‐level micro‐nano structure is successfully constructed. The test shows that the water contact angle of the surface is 169°, and the rolling angle is about 2°. The contact angle of the surface is also over 150° for other liquids, and it bounces off the external water droplets for three times, so it can easily take away pollutants and keep the surface dry and clean under the action of water flow. In the same icing environment, compared with the original surface, it can prolong the freezing time of droplets by 5 times. After repeated rubbing, the surface still has superhydrophobic properties until the whole surface is completely destroyed. The preparation method used in this study is simple, and the prepared superhydrophobic surface has excellent performance, which is expected to promote the application of superhydrophobic surface in practical working conditions.

Highlights

The preparation method is fast, efficient, low‐energy and environment‐friendly, and the used materials are simple and economical, and can be reused.

The prepared surface has excellent hydrophobic performance for different media.

The prepared superhydrophobic surface has low adhesion and droplet rebound performance.

The prepared superhydrophobic surface has excellent delayed icing performance.

The prepared superhydrophobic surface has excellent wear resistance.
The impact of mesh size, turbulence parameterization, and land‐surface‐exchange scheme on simulations of the mountain boundary layer in the hectometric range
Authors: Goger Brigitta , Dipankar Anurag
Published: July 2024

The horizontal grid spacing of numerical weather prediction models keeps decreasing towards the hectometric range. We perform limited‐area simulations with the Icosahedral Nonhydrostatic (ICON) model across horizontal grid spacings (1 km, 500 m, 250 m, 125 m) in the Inn Valley, Austria, and evaluate the model with observations from the Cross‐Valley Flow in the Inn Valley Investigated by Dual‐Doppler LIDAR Measurements (CROSSINN) measurement campaign. This allows us to investigate whether increasing the horizontal resolution automatically improves the representation of the flow structure, surface exchange, and common meteorological variables. Increasing the horizontal resolution results in an improved simulation of the thermally induced circulation. However, the model still faces challenges with scale interactions and the evening transition of the up‐valley flow. Differences between two turbulence schemes (1D turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) and 3D Smagorinsky) emerge due to their different surface transfer formulations, yielding a delayed evening transition in the 3D Smagorinsky scheme. Generally speaking, the correct simulation of the mountain boundary layer depends mostly on the representation of model topography and surface exchange, and the choice of turbulence parameterization is secondary.
Entanglement in Quantum Dots: Insights from Dynamic Susceptibility and Quantum Fisher Information
Authors: Abouie Jahanfar , Vashaee Daryoosh
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the entanglement properties of quantum dots (QDs) under a universal Hamiltonian where the Coulomb interaction between particles (electrons or holes) decouples into charging energy and exchange coupling terms. Although this formalism typically decouples the charge and spin components, confinement‐induced energy splitting can induce unexpected entanglement within the system. By analyzing the dynamic susceptibility and quantum Fisher information (QFI), significant behaviors are uncovered influenced by exchange constants, temperature variations, and confinement effects. In QDs with Ising exchange interactions, far below the Stoner instability (SI) point, where the QD is in a disordered paramagnetic phase, temperature reductions lead to decreased entanglement, challenging conventional expectations. These findings demonstrate that for QDs with small exchange interactions, the responses of easy‐plane () and easy‐axis () configurations are similar, with increased anisotropy broadening susceptibility and shifting its maximum to higher frequencies. For large exchange interactions, the susceptibility differences between easy‐plane and easy‐axis QDs become significant, with easy‐plane QDs exhibiting a higher susceptibility magnitude. Additionally, the study reveals that temperature variations affect the dynamic response functions differently in easy‐axis and easy‐plane QDs. In easy‐plane QDs, QFI consistently decreases with increasing temperature, whereas in easy‐axis QDs, QFI behavior is highly dependent on the strengths of and , showing either an increase or decrease with temperature based on specific coupling conditions. Conversely, at low temperatures, anisotropic Heisenberg models exhibit enhanced entanglement near isotropic points. Overall, this work contributes to advancing the understanding of entanglement in QDs and its potential applications in quantum technologies.
Soil‐vegetation interplay in a Holocene toposequence at Torres del Paine National Park, southern Andes, Chile
Authors: Senra Eduardo Osório , Schaefer Carlos Ernesto Gonçalves Reynaud , Soares de Oliveira Fábio , Michel Roberto , Bockheim James , Feital Gjorup Davi , Simas Felipe Nogueira Bello , Francelino Márcio Rocha
Published: July 2024

Chile's Torres del Paine National Park (TPNP) is one of the most impressive landscapes in southern Patagonia, with unique natural elements on the edge of the southern ice field, where knowledge of soils and ecological relationships is nonexistent. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the chemical, physical, mineralogical, and micromorphological characteristics of Holocene soils along a local toposequence representing the main vegetation types of the TPNP. The morphological, chemical, physical, and mineralogical properties of 12 soil profiles were studied and classified according to Soil Taxonomy. Coevolution of vegetation and soil taxa is clearly evident since glaciation, with podsolization under austral Nothofagus pumilio forests leading to the development of spodosols, while paludization in local depressions with Nothofagus forests allowed the formation of histosols. Slopes covered with loess and tephra led to the formation of Andisols with shrub vegetation. Predominant parent materials include till from Late Quaternary advances of southern Andean ice, Pleistocene loess, and volcanic ash from surrounding Chilean volcanoes. The parent materials were strongly influenced by Late Quaternary climatic and landscape changes following the retreat of the Last Glacial Maximum in southern Patagonia, resulting in erosional and depositional conditions (windblown loess, fluvial glacial deposits, and moraines). Stable landforms show the influence of allochthonous volcanic ash shaping Andean features, combined with the accumulation of organic matter in hydromorphic soils. Three main groups of soils have been identified: loess‐rich soils, organic‐rich soils, and poorly developed soils. The latter show low fertility related to recent landforms on different substrates ranging from till, rocky slopes, talus, or glacial deposits. In high mountain regions under periglacial conditions, cryoturbation features indicate seasonal frost–thaw cycles without current permafrost. The diversity of soil orders in the mountains of southern Patagonia is comparable to similar environmental conditions and latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere. However, the andic properties due to volcanic ejecta inputs, as well as organic‐rich soils at low altitudes of bottom valleys, are typical features of the soils at TNTP.