bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Promising Therapeutic Scaffold Fusing Chalcone/Coumarin Targeting Colorectal Cancer: Design, Synthesis, Biological and ADME‐tox Modelling
Authors: Ramírez‐Bedoya Camilo , Cardona‐Galeano Wilson , Herrera‐Ramírez Angie , Yepes Andrés F.
Published: April 2024

Eight novel compounds incorporating chalcone and coumarin features, namely chalcone‐coumarin‐ hybrid molecules, were designed, synthetized, and evaluated for their activity against human colorectal carcinoma SW480 cell line. According to the results observed, the hybrid with a 2,3‐dimetoxysubstitution pattern displayed the highest activity at the conditions evaluated, with an IC50 value of 25.18±1.12 μM, being even more active than the reference drug (5‐fluorouracil) and the parental compound (7‐methylcoumarin). In addition, this hybrid compound exhibited significant antiproliferative activity in a time‐ and concentration dependent way, suggesting rather a cytostatic or cytotoxic effect. Moreover, a theoretical drug‐like/pharmacokinetics/toxicological study suggested that the most promising hybrid would have a great chance to advance to further preclinical studies as anti‐cancer therapeutic candidate for oral oncological management. Our study evidently identified the potency of chalcone‐coumarin conjugates, particularly the 2,3‐dimetoxysubstituited molecule to be a prototype drug for further investigations toward novel therapeutics treatments of colorectal cancer.
Synthesis and Characterization of Oxime Derivatives and their Some Transition Metal Complexes with Thiadiazole Groups: Biological Activities, and Molecular Docking Studies of the Ligands
Authors: Otaiwi Ahmed Saleem , Mirghani Ahmed Hamdi , Bostancı Hayrani Eren , Coskun Ahmet , Tahtaci Hakan , Uysal Saban
Published: April 2024

This study involved the synthesis and investigation of the anticancer and antioxidant capabilities of six newly developed ligands generated from 1,3,4‐thiadiazole and diphenyl ether keto oxime which has never been synthesized before, together with their transition metal complexes. The obtained ligands were characterized using elemental analysis, FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectroscopy. Polymeric complexes of the obtained ligands were synthesized by reacting all ligands with MCl2.nH2O (M: Mn2+/Co2+)/Ni2+/Cu2+)) salts. The polymeric complexes′ structures were determined using elemental analysis, ICP‐AES, FTIR spectroscopy, UV‐vis spectroscopy, magnetic susceptibility analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. Subsequently, the ligands were examined for their anticancer properties. To achieve this objective, the HT‐22 cell line, which consists of healthy mouse hippocampus neuronal cells, is utilized as the control group. Additionally, the MCF7 (breast cancer), MDA‐MB‐231 (breast cancer), C6 (rat glioma), HT‐29 (colon cancer), and A549 (lung carcinoma) cell lines are employed in cell culture research as representatives of cancerous cell lines. Based on the cell culture investigations, some of the synthesized ligands showed moderate to good anti‐cancer activity, especially for both colon cancer and brain tumors. Finally, a molecular docking analysis was conducted utilizing MOE software to ascertain the binding affinity between the synthesized ligands and the specific proteins of interest.
Spatially Confined π‐Complexation within Pore‐Space‐Partitioned Metal–Organic Frameworks for Enhanced Light Hydrocarbon Separation and Purification
Authors: Xue Ying‐Ying , Lei Jiao , Lv Hong‐Juan , Liang Pan , Li Lianqing , Zhai Quan‐Guo
Published: April 2024

Ultramicroporous metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are demonstrated to be advantageous for the separation and purification of light hydrocarbons such as C2H2, C2H4, and CH4. The introduction of transition metal sites with strong π‐complexation affinity into MOFs is more effective than other adsorption sites for the selective adsorption of π‐electron‐rich unsaturated hydrocarbon gases from their mixtures. However, lower coordination numbers make it challenging to produce robust MOFs directly utilizing metal ions with π‐coordination activity, such as Cu+, Ag+, and Pd2+. Herein, a series of novel π‐complexing MOFs (SNNU‐33s) with a pore size of 4.6 Å are precisely constructed by cleverly introducing symmetrically matched C3‐type [Cu(pyz)3] (pyz = pyrazine) coordinated fragments into 1D hexagonal channels of MIL‐88 prototype frameworks. Benifit from the spatial confinement combined with π‐complex‐active Cu+ of [Cu(pyz)3], pore‐space‐partitioned SNNU‐33 MOFs all present excellent C2H2/CH4, C2H4/CH4, and CO2/CH4 separation ability. Notably, the optimized SNNU‐33b adsorbent demonstrates top‐level IAST selectivity values for C2H2/CH4 (597.4) and C2H4/CH4 (69.8), as well as excellent breakthrough performance. Theoretical calculations further reveal that such benchmark light hydrocarbon separation and purification ability is mainly ascribed to the extra‐strong binding affinity between Cu+ and π‐electron donor molecules via a spatially confined π‐complexation process.
Professional development of advanced sonography skills in the performance of arterio‐venous fistula studies: The role of the learning landscape, feedback and emotion
Authors: Oomens Donna , Thomas Samantha , Clarke Jillian
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Sonographers are expected to perform an increasingly broad range of imaging studies; however, how sonographers learn these new skills is not well documented. The learning landscape in which teaching occurs impacts on the way a skill may be acquired and the future attitude towards performance of the study. This study explored how the skill of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) scanning was acquired and the environment in which this learning occurred in Australian practices. The role of feedback and its reception was also explored, as feedback influences self‐reflection and the development of critical thinking skills.

Methods

Semi structured interviews were conducted to explore the learning environments of qualified sonographers, with varying skill levels, who performed or who were learning to undertake AVF ultrasound examinations and had expressed an interest in participating (n = 16). After transcription, thematic analysis was employed and themes generated.

Results

Three themes arose: (1) how sonographers learnt to perform AVF studies, (2) their attitudes to feedback, and (3) competency and confidence.

Conclusions

In acquiring AVF scanning skills, the landscape in which sonographers learn helps shape their future attitudes to performing the ultrasound, as well as their response to seeking and receiving feedback. Feedback can contribute to future development of competence through prompting self‐reflection and critical thinking which ultimately helps limit overconfidence.

Therefore, supervising sonographers are encouraged to consider the emotional state in which learning occurs, as it may impact the overall acquisition of, and practice of skills, resulting in improved professional outcomes.
Reflections: Lessons Learned, Limitations, and the Way Forward for Urban Agriculture in Public Space
Authors: Sirowy Beata , Ruggeri Deni
Published: April 2024

This chapter offers a closing reflection on the book. The editors situate urban agriculture practices in the context of contemporary societal challenges and emphasizes the unique role of public space in actualizing the plethora of benefits of urban cultivation to individual and communal well-being of city dwellers. They conclude with a short reflection on the future trajectories for urban agriculture practices in the compact city.
Capabilities and Beyond: Towards an Operationalization of Eudaimonic Well-Being in a Public Space Context
Authors: Sirowy Beata
Published: April 2024

In this chapter I discuss and attempt to operationalize the concept of human well-being in cities based on the Aristotelian view of human flourishing (eudaimonia) and elements of Martha Nussbaum’s capability approach, in the context of public space – viewed through the lenses of the theory of affordances. This operationalization may be used to evaluate the potential of public spaces (both actual and planned) to sustain human flourishing – an alternative to valuation models driven by instrumental rationality, such as cost-benefit analysis.

I use the ten human capabilities identified by Martha Nussbaum to map the central dimensions of eudaimonic well-being and ask: What kind of spatial/functional and social affordances need to be granted by a given urban agriculture project to sustain the well-being dimensions indicated by each of the capabilities? Further, I extend the operationalization with the consideration of virtues (moral and intellectual excellences) – which is largely absent in capability scholarship. I ask: What kind of virtues can be linked to each of the ten central capabilities, and what kind of spatial/functional and social affordances would support the cultivation of these virtues?

By problematizing eudaimonic well-being in cities, this chapter contributes to a growing discussion on the relationship between the qualities of the built environment and human well-being. This research typically focuses on the range of pathways through which the built environment may affect human well-being, not on its operationalization, and adopts a hedonic view of human well-being in an implicit way. I argue that the distinction between eudaimonic and hedonic well-being needs to be pronounced more clearly in urban research and more attention needs to be paid to the eudaimonic well-being construct which is much more concerned with the achievement of full human potential than the hedonic models.
The Importance of Social Programming in Urban Agriculture: A Practitioner’s Experiences from Norway
Authors: Gallis Helene , Weger Kimberly , Curtis Adam
Published: April 2024

This contribution presents Norwegian experiences of the urban agriculture pioneer Nabolagshager and its founder Helene Gallis. The chapter takes the form of a selected memoir of the development of urban agriculture projects in Oslo and presents the case for a more systematic application of placemaking principles in urban agriculture in order to enhance the social well-being aspects of these projects. Gallis argues that her experience in combining placemaking with urban agriculture can enable community members, residents, and fragile and undesirable groups to participate in the co-creation of urban agriculture in public spaces, where they could be empowered to their full human capabilities. The project stories particularly highlight the transformative impact of using the placemaking principle of triangulation in urban agriculture projects and can be of inspiration for innovative new forms reappropriation and co-production for more accessible, inclusive, and democratic cultivated public spaces in the compact city.
Boundaries Between Research, Surveillance and Monitored Emergency Use
Authors: Voo Teck Chuan , Mastroleo Ignacio
Published: April 2024

Responses to outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics involves a heterogeneous set of activities that aim to address threats to public health. In addition to research, non-research activities, such as prevention and control interventions, and surveillance, are conducted. The boundaries between research and non-research responses can rapidly blur during a public health emergency such as the COVID-19 pandemic. There may be common elements between these types of activities, and they may draw on the same resources and infrastructure. Non-research activities, such as surveillance and emergency non-research use of unproven interventions, and research activities must all be undertaken in an ethical manner as components of emergency response. However, care is needed to distinguish between non-research public health activities and research, because research often has considerations and requirements for its ethical conduct which are distinct from non-research public health activities. Research aims to produce generalizable knowledge, and mechanisms such as participant consent and independent ethics review aim to ensure that the rights and interests of research participants are respected. Ensuring that research and non-research activities are appropriately distinguished can additionally promote proper coordination of such activities, and increase trust and social accountability in pandemic responses. Consequently, it is important to distinguish between these different activities on the basis of their primary aim, and to consider whether their implementation is justifiable, based on their aims and the relevant ethical framework for each type of activity, and how they are coordinated as part of the larger collective activity of emergency response and management. Complex questions arise about how the different stakeholders involved in decision-making should make valid and justifiable decisions about whether the response activity is research or non-research. The cases in this chapter invite consideration about how such decisions should be made, and their implications, in the context of applications to conduct retrospective research into the outcomes of emergency uses of unproven interventions outside clinical trials, and of characterising antibody-testing initiatives and systematic data collection activities as surveillance or research.
Comparison of Flow Reduction Efficacy of Nominal and Oversized Flow Diverters Using a Novel Measurement-assisted in Silico Method
Authors: Csippa Benjamin , Sándor Levente , Závodszky Gábor , Szikora István , Paál György
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The high efficacy of flow diverters (FD) in the case of wide-neck aneurysms is well demonstrated, yet new challenges have arisen because of reported posttreatment failures and the growing number of new generation of devices. Our aim is to present a measurement-supported in silico workflow that automates the virtual deployment and subsequent hemodynamic analysis of FDs. In this work, the objective is to analyze the effects of FD deployment variability of two manufacturers on posttreatment flow reduction.

Methods

The virtual deployment procedure is based on detailed mechanical calibration of the flow diverters, while the flow representation is based on hydrodynamic resistance (HR) measurements. Computational fluid dynamic simulations resulted in 5 untreated and 80 virtually treated scenarios, including 2 FD designs in nominal and oversized deployment states. The simulated aneurysmal velocity reduction (AMVR) is correlated with the HR values and deployment scenarios.

Results

The linear HR coefficient and AMVR revealed a power-law relationship considering all 80 deployments. In nominal deployment scenarios, a significantly larger average AMVR was obtained (60.3%) for the 64-wire FDs than for 48-wire FDs (51.9%). In oversized deployments, the average AMVR was almost the same for 64-wire and 48-wire device types, 27.5% and 25.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

The applicability of our numerical workflow was demonstrated, also in large-scale hemodynamic investigations. The study revealed a robust power-law relationship between a HR coefficient and AMVR. Furthermore, the 64 wire configurations in nominal sizing produced a significantly higher posttreatment flow reduction, replicating the results of other in vitro studies.
Characterization of randomly oriented strand boards manufactured from juvenile wood of underutilized wood species
Authors: Pipíška Tomáš , Nociar Marek , Král Pavel , Ráheľ Jozef , Bekhta Pavlo , Réh Roman , Krišťák Ľuboš , Jopek Miroslav , Pijáková Barbora , Wimmer Rupert , Šernek Milan
Published: April 2024

The wood-based panel industry in Europe, which is dominated by the use of Norway spruce, will face new challenges due to environmental changes and the bark-beetle calamity, which started a new era of forestry. To explore the possibility of replacing spruce with other wood species, juvenile wood of nine underutilized wood species (Scots pine, European larch, poplar, willow, alder, birch, European beech, English oak and hornbeam) were used to make randomly oriented strand boards (OSBs). Single-layer OSBs were produced with 3% pMDI resin and 0.5% wax. Standard physical and mechanical properties were measured. The bending strength (MOR) values showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the values for, on the one hand, spruce (34.6 MPa) and, on the other, larch (25.9 MPa), poplar (25.2 MPa), willow (27.8 MPa), alder (34.3 MPa) or birch (27.1 MPa). A similar trend was found for the boards modulus of elasticity (MOE). The highest MOE values of 5,185 MPa and 4,472 MPa were found for spruce and alder, respectively. There was no significant difference between spruce and other wood species in internal bond strength. Boards made from high-density wood species showed better physical performance, whereas those made from low-density wood species (except pine) gave better mechanical properties. Strand-generalized characteristics, such as the slenderness ratio and specific surface, were analyzed for all investigated physical and mechanical properties. European larch, poplar, willow, and alder are potential wood species for manufacturing OSBs in future without mixing species, as they can replace spruce in the wood-based panel industry.
The thrombin receptor PAR4 supports visceral adipose tissue inflammation
Authors: Kleeschulte Sonja , Fischinger Vivien , Öhlke Lisa , Bode Johannes , Kamler Markus , Dobrev Dobromir , Grandoch Maria , Fender Anke C.
Published: April 2024

Thrombin inhibition suppresses adiposity, WAT inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in mice. Protease-activated receptor (PAR)1 does not account for thrombin-driven obesity, so we explored the culprit role of PAR4 in this context. Male WT and PAR-4-/- mice received a high fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks, WT controls received standard chow. Body fat was quantified by NMR. Epididymal WAT was assessed by histology, immunohistochemistry, qPCR and lipase activity assay. 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were differentiated ± thrombin, acutely stimulated ± PAR4 activating peptide (AP) and assessed by immunoblot, qPCR and U937 monocyte adhesion. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) from obese and lean patients was assessed by immunoblot. PAR4 was upregulated in mouse WAT under HFD. PAR4-/- mice developed less visceral adiposity and glucose intolerance under HFD, featuring smaller adipocytes, fewer macrophages and lower expression of adipogenic (leptin, PPARγ) and pro-inflammatory genes (CCL2, IL-1β) in WAT. HFD-modified activity and expression of lipases or perilipin were unaffected by PAR4 deletion. 3T3-L1 adipocytes differentiated with thrombin retained Ki67 expression, further upregulated IL-1β and CCL2 and were more adhesive for monocytes. In mature adipocytes, PAR4-AP increased phosphorylated ERK1/2 and AKT, upregulated Ki67, CCl2, IL-β and hyaluronan synthase 1 but not TNF-α mRNA, and augmented hyaluronidase-sensitive monocyte adhesion. Obese human EAT expressed more PAR4, CD68 and CD54 than lean EAT. PAR4 upregulated in obesity supports adipocyte hypertrophy, WAT expansion and thrombo-inflammation. The emerging PAR4 antagonists provide a therapeutic perspective in this context beyond their canonical antiplatelet action.
Attentional spatial cueing of the stop-signal affects the ability to suppress behavioural responses
Authors: Haque Md. Tanbeer , Segreti Mariella , Giuffrida Valentina , Ferraina Stefano , Brunamonti Emiliano , Pani Pierpaolo
Published: April 2024

The ability to adapt to the environment is linked to the possibility of inhibiting inappropriate behaviours, and this ability can be enhanced by attention. Despite this premise, the scientific literature that assesses how attention can influence inhibition is still limited. This study contributes to this topic by evaluating whether spatial and moving attentional cueing can influence inhibitory control. We employed a task in which subjects viewed a vertical bar on the screen that, from a central position, moved either left or right where two circles were positioned. Subjects were asked to respond by pressing a key when the motion of the bar was interrupted close to the circle (go signal). In about 40% of the trials, following the go signal and after a variable delay, a visual target appeared in either one of the circles, requiring response inhibition (stop signal). In most of the trials the stop signal appeared on the same side as the go signal (valid condition), while in the others, it appeared on the opposite side (invalid condition). We found that spatial and moving cueing facilitates inhibitory control in the valid condition. This facilitation was observed especially for stop signals that appeared within 250ms of the presentation of the go signal, thus suggesting an involvement of exogenous attentional orienting. This work demonstrates that spatial and moving cueing can influence inhibitory control, providing a contribution to the investigation of the relationship between spatial attention and inhibitory control.
Force matching: motor effects that are not reported by the actor
Authors: Pawłowski Michał , Ricotta Joseph M. , De Sayan D. , Latash Mark L.
Published: April 2024

We explored unintentional drifts of finger forces during force production and matching task. Based on earlier studies, we predicted that force matching with the other hand would reduce or stop the force drift in instructed fingers while uninstructed (enslaved) fingers remain unaffected. Twelve young, healthy, right-handed participants performed two types of tasks with both hands (task hand and match hand). The task hand produced constant force at 20% of MVC level with the Index and Ring fingers pressing in parallel on strain gauge force sensors. The Middle finger force wasn’t instructed, and its enslaved force was recorded. Visual feedback on the total force by the instructed fingers was either present throughout the trial or only during the first 5 s (no-feedback condition). The other hand matched the perceived force level of the task hand starting at either 4, 8, or 15 s from the trial initiation. No feedback was ever provided for the match hand force. After the visual feedback was removed, the task hand showed a consistent drift to lower magnitudes of total force. Contrary to our prediction, over all conditions, force matching caused a brief acceleration of force drift in the task hand, which then reached a plateau. There was no effect of matching on drifts in enslaved finger force. We interpret the force drifts within the theory of control with spatial referent coordinates as consequences of drifts in the command (referent coordinate) to the antagonist muscles. This command is not adequately incorporated into force perception.
Radiographic findings in patients suspected of subacromial impingement syndrome: prevalence and reliability
Authors: Andrea Linda Christie , Svendsen Susanne Wulff , Frost Poul , Smidt Kate , Gelineck John , Christiansen David Høyrup , Deutch Søren Rasmussen , Hansen Torben Bæk , Haahr Jens Peder , Dalbøge Annett
Published: April 2024

Objective

Aims were to (i) report prevalence and (ii) evaluate reliability of the radiographic findings in examinations of patients suspected of subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS), performed before a patient’s first consultation at orthopaedic department.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional study examined radiographs from 850 patients, age 18 to 63 years, referred to orthopaedic clinic on suspicion of SIS. Prevalence (%) of radiographic findings were registered. Inter- and intrarater reliability was analysed using expected and observed agreement (%), kappa coefficients, Bland–Altman plots, or intraclass coefficients.

Results

A total of 850 patients with a mean age of 48.2 years (SD = 8.8) were included. Prevalence of the radiographic findings was as follows: calcification 24.4%, Bigliani type III (hooked) acromion 15.8%, lateral/medial acromial spurs 11.1%/6.6%, acromioclavicular osteoarthritis 12.0%, and Bankart/Hill-Sachs lesions 7.1%. Inter- and intrarater Kappa values for most radiographic findings ranged between 0.40 and 0.89; highest values for the presence of calcification (0.85 and 0.89) and acromion type (0.63 and 0.66). The inter- and intrarater intraclass coefficients ranged between 0.41 and 0.83; highest values for acromial tilt (0.79 and 0.83) and calcification area (0.69 and 0.81).

Conclusion

Calcification, Bigliani type III (hooked) acromion, and acromioclavicular osteoarthritis were prevalent findings among patients seen in orthopaedic departments on suspicion of SIS. Spurs and Bankart/Hill-Sachs lesions were less common. Optimal reliabilities were found for the presence of calcification, calcification area, and acromial tilt. Calcification qualities, acromion type, lateral spur, and acromioclavicular osteoarthritis showed suboptimal reliabilities. Newer architectural measures (acromion index and lateral acromial angle) performed well with respect to reliability.
Long stem revision versus short stem revision with plate osteosynthesis for Vancouver type B2 periprosthetic femoral fracture: a comparative study of eighty five cases
Authors: Chen Jian-Jiun , Hung Shih-Hsin , Liou Jia-You , Chang Wen-Chieh , Hsu Kuei-Hsiang , Su Yu-Pin , Chiu Fang-Yao , Cheng Ming-Fai
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Periprosthetic femoral fractures (PPFs) around the hip are challenging complications in orthopaedic surgery, particularly Vancouver type B2 (VTB2) fractures. The surgical management of these fractures is crucial and depends on various factors. Cementless short taper stem with plate osteosynthesis is an alternative surgical technique. This study aims to compare the outcomes of this surgical technique with revision arthroplasty (RA) with long stem in the treatment of VTB2 PPFs.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted in a single medical institute from February 2010 to May 2019. Patients who had received either total hip arthroplasty or bipolar hemiarthroplasty and subsequently developed a VTB2 PPF were included; patients who sustained intra-operative fractures or received a cemented stem previously were excluded from the analysis. The patients were divided into two groups: group I received RA with cementless long stem, while group II underwent RA with cementless short taper stem with plate osteosynthesis. Demographic data, radiographic and functional outcomes, and complications were analyzed between the two groups.

Results

A total of 85 patients diagnosed with VTB2 PPFs were included in the study. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of demographic data, including age, gender, mean follow-up times, estimated blood loss, and operative times. The radiographic results showed that there was no significant difference in the incidence of subsidence and implant stability between the two groups. However, group II tended to have less subsidence and periprosthetic osteolysis. Patients in group II had significantly better functional scores (mean Harris hip score: post-operative: 60.2 in group I and 66.7 in group ii; last follow-up: 77.4 in group 1 and 83.2 in group II (both p < 0.05)). There were no significant differences in the overall complication rate, including infection, dislocation, re-fracture, and revision surgery, between the two groups.

Conclusions

Both surgical techniques, cementless long stem and cementless short taper stem with plate osteosynthesis, are effective in the treatment of Vancouver B2 PPFs, with no significant differences in outcomes or complications. However, patients in cementless short taper stem with plate osteosynthesis had better functional scores at both post-operative and the last follow-up.
Methods to estimate body temperature and energy expenditure dynamics in fed and fasted laboratory mice: effects of sleep deprivation and light exposure
Authors: van der Vinne Vincent , McKillop Laura E. , Wilcox Sian L. , Cantley James , Peirson Stuart N. , Swoap Steven J. , Vyazovskiy Vladyslav V.
Published: April 2024

Monitoring body temperature and energy expenditure in freely-moving laboratory mice remains a powerful methodology used widely across a variety of disciplines–including circadian biology, sleep research, metabolic phenotyping, and the study of body temperature regulation. Some of the most pronounced changes in body temperature are observed when small heterothermic species reduce their body temperature during daily torpor. Daily torpor is an energy saving strategy characterized by dramatic reductions in body temperature employed by mice and other species when challenged to meet energetic demands. Typical measurements used to describe daily torpor are the measurement of core body temperature and energy expenditure. These approaches can have drawbacks and developing alternatives for these techniques provides options that can be beneficial both from an animal-welfare and study-complexity perspective. First, this paper presents and assesses a method to estimate core body temperature based on measurements of subcutaneous body temperature, and second, a separate approach to better estimate energy expenditure during daily torpor based on core body temperature. Third, the effects of light exposure during the habitual dark phase and sleep deprivation during the light period on body temperature dynamics were tested preliminary in fed and fasted mice. Together, the here-published approaches and datasets can be used in the future to assess body temperature and metabolism in freely-moving laboratory mice.
Improving land surface feedbacks to the atmosphere in convection-permitting climate simulations for Europe
Authors: Halladay Kate , Berthou Ségolène , Kendon Elizabeth
Published: April 2024

We investigated positive temperature (warm) and negative precipitation (dry) biases in convection-permitting model (CPM) simulations for Europe (2.2 km grid spacing) that were considerably larger than in equivalent regional climate model (RCM) simulations (12 km grid spacing). We found that improvements in dry biases could be made by (1) using a more complex runoff scheme which takes into account topography and groundwater, (2) delaying the onset of water stress in vegetation to enhance transpiration, (3) changing the microphysics scheme to CASIM (Cloud AeroSol Interacting Microphysics) which also decreases heavy rainfall and increases light rainfall. Increasing soil moisture to the critical point can remove dry precipitation biases in southern Europe but not in northern areas, indicating that soil moisture limitation is a key contributor to precipitation biases in the south only. Instead, in the north, changing the cloud scheme of the model has more impact on precipitation biases. We found that the more intense and intermittent nature of rainfall in the CPM, which is more realistic leads to different canopy interception compared to the RCM. This can impact canopy evaporation, evapotranspiration and feed back on precipitation. Increasing rainfall storage in the canopy only leads to small improvements in warm biases, since it still fills rapidly with intense CPM rainfall, suggesting the need for an additional moisture store via improved groundwater modelling or surface pooling. Overall, this work highlights the challenge of correctly capturing land surface feedbacks in CPMs, which play an important role in future climate projections in some regions.
Interactions between folate metabolism-related nutrients and polymorphisms on colorectal cancer risk: a case-control study in the Basque country
Authors: Corchero-Palacios Sara , Alegria-Lertxundi Iker , de Pancorbo Marian M. , Arroyo-Izaga Marta
Published: April 2024

Folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism (FOCM) plays an important role in colorectal carcinogenesis. Previous studies have assessed the role of folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism (FOCM)-related gene-diet interaction in the aetiology of colorectal cancer (CRC), however, the results remained inconclusive. Thus, this study aimed to investigate dietary factors and genetic variants related to FOCM, as well as potential nutrient-gene and nutrient-lifestyle interactions, on CRC risk. This observational study included 229 patients diagnosed with CRC and 229 age- and sex-matched subjects as controls from a population-based bowel cancer screening program. Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for CRC risk. A Bonferroni-corrected threshold of α = 0.005 was considered significant, and P values less than 0.05 were considered to be suggestive of an association. After Bonferroni correction, a high dietary intake of betaine was associated with a decreased risk of CRC in the adjusted model (OR, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.10–0.40, P < 0.001). Two SNPs, rs1476413 and rs17824591, exhibited significant gene-diet interactions with total choline ad vitamin B12 intakes, respectively, in adjusted models (total choline, tertile 3 vs. 1, OR, 95% CI: 0.25, 0.11–0.66, Pinteraction = 0.012; vitamin B12, tertile 2 vs. tertile 1, OR, 95% CI: 2.48, 1.04-5.00, Pinteraction = 0.003). These findings suggest that betaine intake and interactions between some dietary factors and variants in MTHFR and MTHFD1 genes have an influence on CRC risk in the population studied. If these results are confirmed, specific nutritional intervention strategies could be designed.
Aligning front-of-pack labelling with dietary guidelines: including whole grains in the health star rating
Authors: Byron Caitlin , Kissock Katrina R , Barrett Eden M , Beck Eleanor J
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Front-of-pack labelling systems, such as the Health Star Rating (HSR), aim to aid healthy consumer dietary choices and complement national dietary guidelines. Dietary guidelines aim to be holistic by extending beyond the individual nutrients of food, including other food components that indicate diet quality, including whole grains. We aimed to test the feasibility of including whole grains in the HSR algorithm, to better inform dietary guidance in Australia coherent with existing dietary guidelines.

Methods

We assigned whole-grain points as a favourable component of the HSR based on the whole-grain content of foods. We compared the original, and three modified HSR algorithms (including altered thresholds for star ratings) using independent-samples median tests. Finally, we used Spearman’s correlation to measure the strength of association between an item’s nutritional composition (all components of the HSR algorithm including all favourable and unfavourable components) and their HSR using each algorithm.

Results

Up to 10 points were added for products with ≥ 50% whole-grain content, with no points for products with < 25%. Adjusting the HSR score cut-off by 3 points for grain products created the greatest difference in median HSR between refined and whole-grain items (up to 2 stars difference), compared to the original algorithm (a maximum of 1 star).

Conclusions

The addition of whole grains to the HSR algorithm improved the differentiation of refined and whole-grain items, and therefore better aligned with dietary guidelines. Holistic approaches to food guidance systems are required to provide consistent messaging and inform positive food choices.
A retrospective investigation on clinical and radiographic outcomes of distal tibial fractures after intramedullary nailing using the lateral parapatellar extra-articular approach
Authors: Nie Wei , Wang Zhaojun , Xu Shizhuang , Guo Sutong , Yue Yang , Sun Kefu
Published: April 2024

Introduction

According to reports, the modified extra-articular parapatellar approach allows the performance of tibial nailing in the semi-extended position without the concern of joint violation. However, there remains no special study that has provided a detailed assessment of the benefits and risks of this approach for treating distal tibial fractures (DTFs). The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with DTFs after intramedullary nailing using a lateral parapatellar extra-articular (LPE) approach in comparison to using the suprapatellar (SP) and transpatellar (TP) approaches.

Methods

Data were collected from 99 patients with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. Comparisons were conducted between the groups regarding the number of intraoperative fluoroscopies, complications, knee pain, knee range of motion (ROM), the Lysholm Knee Scale (LKS), the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) and radiological findings.

Results

The demographic characteristics were comparable between the groups. Fewer intraoperative fluoroscopies were performed in the LPE (27.47 ± 4.98) and SP (26.03 ± 5.12) groups than in the TP group (30.20 ± 7.42; P<0.001). When compared with the other two approaches, the LPE approach was associated with less knee pain (P<0.001) and better knee ROM (P<0.001) at one week postoperative. No significant intergroup differences were detected in the incidence of complications, LKS scores (P = 0.687) and OMAS (P = 0.926). Radiological findings demonstrated that postoperative tibial alignment (P = 0.853), the time of bony union and rate of non-union were similar between the groups.

Conclusion

The LPE approach can serve as a safe and effective option for tibial nailing, as it offers favourable outcomes in knee pain relief and knee ROM in the early postoperative period and is equivalent to the other two approaches in terms of the incidence of complications, fracture healing, functional recovery and postoperative alignment for patients with DTFs.
An in vitro model for postoperative cranial nerve dysfunction and a proposed method of rehabilitation with N-acetylcysteine microparticles
Authors: Kita Ashley , Kedeshian Katherine , Hong Michelle , Hoffman Larry
Published: April 2024

Purpose

When operating near cranial motor nerves, transient postoperative weakness of target muscles lasting weeks to months is often observed. As nerves are typically intact at a procedure’s completion, paresis is hypothesized to result from a combination of neurapraxia and axonotmesis. As both neurapraxia and axonotmesis involve Schwann cell injury and require remyelination, we developed an in vitro RSC96 Schwann cell model of injury using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to induce oxidative stress and investigated the efficacy of candidate therapeutic agents to promote RSC96 viability. As a first step in developing a long-term local administration strategy, the most promising of these agents was incorporated into sustained-release microparticles and investigated for bioactivity using this assay.

Methods

The concentration of H2O2 which reduced viability by 50% was determined to establish a standard for inducing oxidative stress in RSC96 cultures. Fresh cultures were then co-dosed with H2O2 and the potential therapeutics melatonin, N-acetylcysteine, resveratrol, and 4-aminopyridine. Schwann cell viability was evaluated and the most efficacious agent, N-acetylcysteine, was encapsulated into microparticles. Eluted samples of N-acetylcysteine from microparticles was evaluated for retained bioactivity.

Results

100 µM N-acetylcysteine improved the viability of Schwann cells dosed with H2O2. 100 µM Microparticle-eluted N-acetylcysteine also enhanced Schwann cell viability.

Conclusion

We developed a Schwann cell culture model of iatrogenic nerve injury and used this to identify N-acetylcysteine as an agent to promote recovery. N-acetylcysteine was packaged into microparticles and demonstrated promise as a locally administrable agent to reduce oxidative stress in Schwann cells.
Oncologic outcomes of the most prevalent major salivary gland cancers: retrospective cohort study from single center
Authors: Kucharska Ewa , Rzepakowska Anna , Żurek Michał , Pikul Julia , Daniel Piotr , Oleszczak Angelika , Niemczyk Kazimierz
Published: April 2024

Background

The preoperative diagnosis of salivary gland cancer (SGC) is crucial for the application of appropriate treatment, particularly involving the extension of the resection.

Methods

Retrospective search of medical database identified 116 patients treated surgically with malignant tumors of salivary gland between 2010 and 2020. Analysis included the demographical data, clinical course, type of surgical and adjuvant treatment, histology type and margin status, perivascular invasion (LVI), perineural invasion (PNI), metastatic lymph nodes (LN). Facial nerve function, recurrence-free and overall survival were evaluated. Adequate statistics were used for data analysis.

Results

The final cohort included 63 SGC patients, with adenoid cystic carcinoma the most common pathological type (27%, n = 17), followed by adenocarcinoma (17.4% n = 11). T1 and T2 patients accounted for majority cases (n = 46). The lymph node metastases were confirmed with the histopathology in 31.7% (n = 20). Distant metastases were observed in 4.8% of cases (n = 3). 38% (n = 24) of SGC were treated selectively with surgery, 49.2% (n = 31) had postoperative radiotherapy and 15.9% (n = 10)—radio-chemotherapy. The final facial nerve function was impaired in 38% of patients. Mean overall survival (OS) for all patients was 108.7 (± 132.1) months, and was the most favorable for acinar cell carcinoma (118.9 ± 45.4) and the poorest for squamous cell carcinoma (44 ± 32). Cox regression analysis of disease-free survival and OS identified significant association only with patients’ age over 65 years, the hazard ratio of 7.955 and 6.486, respectively.

Conclusions

The efficacy of treatment modalities for SGC should be verified with regard to the histopathological type, but also the patients’ age should be taken into account.
Response of the root anatomical structure of Carex moorcroftii to habitat drought in the Western Sichuan Plateau of China
Authors: Yang Jia-Ying , Wang Hong-Bin , Zhang Da-Cai
Published: April 2024

Main conclusion

The anatomical structures of Carex moorcroftii roots showing stronger plasticity during drought had a lower coefficient of variation in cell size in the same habitats, while those showing weaker plasticity had a higher coefficient of variation. The complementary relationship between these factors comprises the adaptation mechanism of the C. moorcroftii root to drought.

To explore the effects of habitat drought on root anatomy of hygrophytic plants, this study focused on roots of C. moorcroftii. Five sample plots were set up along a soil moisture gradient in the Western Sichuan Plateau to collect experimental materials. Paraffin sectioning was used to obtain root anatomy, and one-way ANOVA, correlation analysis, linear regression analysis, and RDA ranking were applied to analyze the relationship between root anatomy and soil water content. The results showed that the root transverse section area, thickness of epidermal cells, exodermis and Casparian strips, and area of aerenchyma were significantly and positively correlated with soil moisture content (P < 0.01). The diameter of the vascular cylinder and the number and total area of vessels were significantly and negatively correlated with the soil moisture content (P < 0.01). The plasticity of the anatomical structures was strong for the diameter and area of the vascular cylinder and thickness of the Casparian strip and epidermis, while it was weak for vessel diameter and area. In addition, there was an asymmetrical relationship between the functional adaptation of root anatomical structure in different soil moisture and the variation degree of root anatomical structure in the same soil moisture. Therefore, the roots of C. moorcroftii can shorten the water transport distance from the epidermis to the vascular cylinder, increase the area of the vascular cylinder and the number of vessels, and establish a complementary relationship between the functional adaptation of root anatomical structure in different habitats and the variation degree of root anatomical structure in the same habitat to adapt to habitat drought. This study provides a scientific basis for understanding the response of plateau wetland plants to habitat changes and their ecological adaptation strategies. More scientific experimental methods should be adopted to further study the mutual coordination mechanisms of different anatomical structures during root adaptation to habitat drought for hygrophytic plants.
A novel multiagent system for cervical motor control evaluation and individualized therapy: integrating gamification and portable solutions
Authors: Sales Mendes André Filipe , Sánchez San Blas Héctor , Pérez Robledo Fátima , De Paz Santana Juan F. , Villarrubia González Gabriel
Published: April 2024

The study focused on designing a portable, objective device for assessing and addressing Cervical Motor Control (CMC) impairments. This device is based on a proposed architecture that employs advanced technology to evaluate and enhance patients’ CMC. During a pilot study with 10 participants, the device’s feasibility and usability were verified, including an initial assessment using the Head Relocation Test and a 12-session intervention over 4 weeks. The architecture of the proposed system is responsible for gathering pertinent data concerning patients’ cervical motor control. It employs advanced algorithms to process this data and objectively assess CMC function. Furthermore, the system tailors the therapy to each patient’s individual needs. Preliminary results indicate that the device and the proposed architecture positively impact assessment test performance accuracy. While additional validation tests are required to confirm their effectiveness, this device emerges as a promising and valuable alternative for assessing and treating patients with CMC impairments. Its focus on advanced technology and personalized adaptation aligns with previous research in telerehabilitation and classroom physical activity promotion.
Do the management and functional outcomes of the surgically treated spinal fractures change in suicidal jumpers?
Authors: Çakmur Başar Burak , Duramaz Altuğ , Çakmur Kadriye Nur , Duramaz Altan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of trauma etiology on the management, functional outcomes and psychiatric characteristics of suicide jumpers and patients who accidentally fall from height.

Methods

89 patients (48 accidental falls and 41 suicidal jumpers) who had undergone spinal surgery were included in the study. The patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically. Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) and McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) were performed for functional evaluation. BECK hopelessness scale (BHS), BECK depression inventory (BDI), and SF-36 scales were used for the psychiatric evaluation. All outcomes were compared between suicidal jumpers and accidental falls.

Results

The RMDQ and ODI questionnaires stated a higher disability in the suicide jump group (p = 0.001 and p = 0.029, respectively). However, the VAS and MPQ questionnaires did not differ in significance between groups (p = 0.182 and p = 0.306, respectively). The SF-36 scale showed that physical function, role emotional, vitality and mental health subdomains were worse in the suicide jump group (p = 0.001, p = 0.029, p = 0.014 and p = 0.030, respectively). BDI scores were significantly higher in the suicide jump group while no difference was observed between the groups in terms of BSH (p = 0.017 and p = 0.940, respectively).

Conclusion

Psychiatric disorders are more common in patients in the suicidal jumpers. The presence of underlying psychiatric problems adversely affects the postoperative functional outcomes of patients with surgically treated spinal fractures. A multidisciplinary approach together with raising awareness in this way can improve the clinical outcomes after orthopedic treatment, even if there is physical disability.