bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High incidence of decidualization failure in infertile women
Authors: Tamura Isao , Doi‐Tanaka Yumiko , Takasaki Akihisa , Shimamura Katsunori , Yoneda Toshihide , Takasaki Hitomi , Shiroshita Amon , Fujimura Taishi , Shirafuta Yuichiro , Sugino Norihiro
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Decidualization is an important event for embryo implantation and successful pregnancy. Impaired decidualization leads to implantation failure and miscarriage. However, it is unclear how often decidualization failure occurs in infertile women. By analyzing the endometrium at late‐secretory phase, we investigated the incidence and pathogenesis of decidualization failure among infertile women.

Methods

Endometrial dating was performed on the endometria obtained in the late‐secretory phase from 33 infertile women. Endometrial dating of more than 2 days delay was taken as an indication of decidualization failure. The expression of essential transcription factors for decidualization (FOXO1, WT1, and C/EBPβ) was examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Among 32 cases, 20 cases (62.5%) showed decidualization failure. These patients tended to have a history of more frequent miscarriages than those without decidualization failure. The percentage of cells that immunostained positive for the expression of three transcription factors was significantly lower in the patients with decidualization failure than in those without decidualization failure. Serum progesterone levels measured in the mid‐ and late‐secretory phase were not significantly different between the cases with and without decidualization failure.

Conclusions

The incidence of decidualization failure is high in infertile women.
Synthesis of 1,3‐Disubtitituted Tetrahydropyrimidinium Salts and Determination of Their Biological Properties and Molecular Docking
Authors: Karaca Emine Özge , Gürbüz Nevin , Demir Yeliz , Tüzün Burak , Özdemir İsmail , Gulcin İlhami
Published: May 2024

Several of 3,4,5,6‐tetrahydropyrimidinium salts with 1‐methyl functionalization are produced. By using techniques for 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and IR spectroscopy, all compounds were investigated. Additionally, these compounds’ abilities to block enzymes were looked into. They had a highly effective inhibitory effect on the isoenzymes of carbonic anhydrases I and II, butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Ki values were found in the range of 57.43±7.09–170.09±50.91 nM for AChE, 7.19±0.42–69.08±2.44 nM for BChE, and 46.48±5.74–203.38±46.15 nM for hCA I, and 30.19±4.03–171.96±30.27 nM for hCA II. As a result, 1,3‐disubtitituted tetrahydroprimidinium salts exhibited potent inhibition profiles toward indicated metabolic enzymes. One of the most important methods for designing and creating novel, potent medications to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) worldwide is the synthesis and discovery of new AChE and BChE inhibitors. The activities of synthesized 3,4,5,6‐tetrahydropyrimidinium salts were compared against various proteins that are crystal structure of AChE (PDB ID: 4 M0E), crystal structure of BChE (PDB ID: 5NN0), crystal structure of hCA I (PDB ID: 2CAB), and crystal structure of hCA II (PDB ID: 3DC3), and then the drug properties of these molecules were examined.
Soft Synthetic Cells with Mobile Membrane Ligands for Ex Vivo Expansion of Therapy‐Relevant T Cell Phenotypes
Authors: Burgstaller Anna , Piernitzki Nils , Küchler Nadja , Koch Marcus , Kister Thomas , Eichler Hermann , Kraus Tobias , Schwarz Eva C. , Dustin Michael L. , Lautenschläger Franziska , Staufer Oskar
Published: May 2024

The expansion of T cells ex vivo is crucial for effective immunotherapy but currently limited by a lack of expansion approaches that closely mimic in vivo T cell activation. Taking inspiration from bottom‐up synthetic biology, a new synthetic cell technology is introduced based on dispersed liquid‐liquid phase‐separated droplet‐supported lipid bilayers (dsLBs) with tunable biochemical and biophysical characteristics, as artificial antigen presenting cells (aAPCs) for ex vivo T cell expansion. These findings obtained with the dsLB technology reveal three key insights: first, introducing laterally mobile stimulatory ligands on soft aAPCs promotes expansion of IL‐4/IL‐10 secreting regulatory CD8+ T cells, with a PD‐1 negative phenotype, less prone to immune suppression. Second, it is demonstrated that lateral ligand mobility can mask differential T cell activation observed on substrates of varying stiffness. Third, dsLBs are applied to reveal a mechanosensitive component in bispecific Her2/CD3 T cell engager‐mediated T cell activation. Based on these three insights, lateral ligand mobility, alongside receptor‐ and mechanosignaling, is proposed to be considered as a third crucial dimension for the design of ex vivo T cell expansion technologies.
Multi‐Functional 2D Covalent Organic Frameworks with Diketopyrrolopyrrole as Electron Acceptor
Authors: Luo Liang , Li Chunbin , Wang Yuancheng , Chen Pinyu , Zhou Zhaoqiong , Chen Tianwen , Wu Kunlan , Ding San‐Yuan , Tan Luxi , Wang Jianguo , Shao Xiangfeng , Liu Zitong
Published: May 2024

2D covalent organic framework (COF) materials with extended conjugated structure and periodic columnar π‐arrays exhibit promising applications in organic optoelectronics. However, there is a scarcity of reports on optoelectronic COFs, mainly due to the lack of suitable π‐skeletons. Here, two multi‐functional optoelectronic 2D COFs DPP‐TPP‐COF and DPP‐TBB‐COF are constructed with diketopyrrolopyrrole as electron acceptor (A), and 1,3,6,8‐tetraphenylpyrene and 1,3,5‐triphenylbenzene as electron donor (D) through imine bonds. Both 2D COFs showed good crystallinities and AA stacking with a rhombic framework for DPP‐TPP‐COF and hexagonal one for DPP‐TBB‐COF, respectively. The electron D–A and ordered intermolecular packing structures endow the COFs with broad UV–vis absorptions and narrow bandgaps along with suitable HOMO/LUMO energy levels, resulting in multi‐functional optoelectronic properties, including photothermal conversion, supercapacitor property, and ambipolar semiconducting behavior. Among them, DPP‐TPP‐COF exhibits a high photothermal conversion efficiency of 47% under 660 nm laser irradiation, while DPP‐TBB‐COF exhibits superior specific capacitance of 384 F g−1. Moreover, P‐type doping and N‐type doping are achieved by iodine and tetrakis(dimethylamino)ethylene on a single host COF, resulting in ambipolar semiconducting behavior. These results provide a paradigm for the application of multi‐functional optoelectronic COF materials.
Templated Growth of In2S3 in Ti3C2TX MXene with Enhanced Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Herber Marcel , Hill Eric H.
Published: May 2024

The growth of ultrathin semiconductors is advantageous for photocatalysis due to improved photophysical properties and reduced charge recombination. Along these lines, templating the growth of semiconductors in confined spaces can allow control over semiconductor growth while also conferring the properties of the template to provide composite nanomaterial hybrids. Herein, the semiconductor In2S3 is grown in the organically‐modified interlayer space of Ti3C2TX MXene, a versatile 2D material with metallic character and broadband light absorption. The growth of 1–2 nm thick layers of In2S3 in the interlayer of MXene leads to a drastic increase in photocatalytic properties and light‐induced charge generation due to decreased interfacial charge transfer resistance. Interestingly, the hydrothermal conditions of In2S3 growth lead to partial oxidation of Ti3C2TX MXene to form anatase TiO2 nanocrystals, although this effect is strongly limited by increased In2S3 precursors due to passivation of the MXene surface. MXenes serve as effective templates for the confined growth of semiconductors, emphasizing the potential of MXene as a template for 2D material heterostructures. Overall, this work further develops MXene‐based 2D material composites, offering insights into the origins of the enhanced photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical properties, toward improvements in energy production and aqueous phase catalysis.
Urban Agriculture & Regional Food Systems Special Section: Improving Livability in Urban Areas: Examining Urban and Peri‐Urban Soil and Plant Management
Authors: Bulgari Roberta , Demiraj Erdona , Schillaci Calogero , Tlili Ahlem , Xia Yushu
Published: May 2024

As urban agriculture increasingly becomes part of our regional food systems, its role in sustainable urban development grows. Urban agriculture can sustain food demand and contribute to food security, environmental sustainability, and community health. However, soil‐related factors in urban agricultural systems pose unique challenges not found in more rural environments, and issues such as soil fertility, soil biodiversity, soil contamination, and existing policy demand further investigation to deepen and enhance the potential contribution of urban agriculture to livability in urban areas. This special issue collects studies to support the need for sustainable soil management, crop diversification, and management strategies for optimal soil health and good crop yield and quality. In addition, the issue examines recent advances in remote sensing technologies and deep learning techniques that offer potential tools for soil health monitoring and plant disease detection related to existing plant‐based contamination, providing a way forward to make informed decisions for policy stakeholders and land planners. Combining these initiatives into urban planning and public health policies could have a considerable impact on urban well‐being and resilience.
The role of cell‐free DNA in non‐invasive diagnosis of urinary tract infection
Authors: Zhao Yu , Zhang Wenhui , Ma Yina , Zhang Xin
Published: May 2024

Urinary tract infection (UTI) constitutes a pervasive health concern. UTIs are dichotomously classified into upper and lower strata, and further categorized as either complicated or uncomplicated. Upper UTIs predominantly afflict the renal and ureteral domains, typified by conditions exemplified in pyelonephritis, whereas lower UTIs manifest within the confines of the urethra and bladder. The conventional diagnosis of UTIs relies upon clinical manifestations and urine culture. Common symptoms encompass dysuria, frequent micturition, hematuria, and suprapubic discomfort. Urine culture serves to identify the specific pathogens instigating the infection and assess their antibiotic susceptibility. However, this procedural protocol generally necessitates an approximate duration of 24 h, coupled with an additional 24‐h interval for antibiotic susceptibility testing. In contradistinction, the detection of cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) in the circulatory system presents a potential avenue for non‐invasive diagnostic modalities. Notwithstanding, cfDNA emanates from deteriorating cells, affording insights into the extant cellular demise within the organism. Extensive scholarly inquiry has established a positive correlation between cfDNA concentration in the bloodstream and the incidence of cell death in conditions, such as severe traumas, sepsis, aseptic inflammation, myocardial infarction, and stroke. However, limited investigative effort has been devoted to elucidating the diagnostic potential of cfDNA in the context of UTIs. Consequently, the concentration and constitution of plasma cfDNA harbor substantial promise for non‐invasively diagnosing UTIs. In summation, the utilization of cfDNA in UTI diagnosis remains an incipient area of scholarly pursuit, underscoring the imperative for further research to elucidate the prospective role of plasma cfDNA in non‐intrusively discerning UTIs.
Depth‐resolved historical painting study with minimal microsampling, illustrated with a newly discovered Botticelli workshop painting
Authors: Tapia José , Eveno Myriam , Laval Eric , Reiche Ina
Published: May 2024

A painting from the Botticelli workshop has been studied after its recent discovery, with an innovative and noninvasive approach combining two‐ dimensional scanning macro‐x‐ray fluorescence imaging (MA‐XRF) and a laboratory‐based depth‐resolved site‐selective confocal micro‐x‐ray fluorescence (CXRF) device. These analyses were supported by measurements on cross‐sections taken from the artwork using scanning electron microscopy coupled with an energy‐dispersive x‐ray system. The aims of this study are to confirm the painting's attribution and authentication, find characteristic markers and features, understand the artist's technique, materials used, and palette, and all of it while reducing sampling. The analyzing approach used combines imaging and site‐selective techniques while avoiding, reducing and replacing sampling without compromising the results. Chemical maps of the painting were obtained by MA‐XRF and enabled the identification of zones, colors, and chemical elements of interest alongside with a first assumption on the pigments used. Depth profiles were then performed in precise areas and colors using CXRF, allowing to evidence overlaying paint layers and obtain a more complete 3D vision of the painting. Contrasting the findings using this new methodology with the traditionally employed analysis process involving microsampling allowed us to determine the accuracy and veracity of our conclusions.
Shaping the Uses of a Treaty Through Ratification and Implementation Procedures
Authors: Miaz Jonathan , Schmid Evelyne , Niederhauser Matthieu , Kaempfer Constance , Maggetti Martino
Published: May 2024

After being signed by a state, international human rights treaties must be formally ratified and then implemented. What happens before and during the ratification may influence the future uses of—and engagements with—human rights treaties and different mechanisms are employed to try to spur engagement and implementation. Through case studies of the Istanbul Convention and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, we demonstrate, first, how a government may try to shape the preferences of its subnational units through the pre-ratification procedure. Second, we show how federal, inter-cantonal and cantonal actors employ or develop ‘domestic implementation mechanisms’ to orient the engagement of subnational units. While these mechanisms sometimes stem from the federal or inter-cantonal level, they can also arise from actions taken at the subnational level, unfolding in a bottom-up process.
Introduction
Authors: Klingebiel Stephan , Hartmann Flora L. , Madani Elisa , Paintner Jonas , Rohe Rebekka A. , Trebs Lisa , Wolk Teodor
Published: May 2024

Knowledge interactions—interactions between actors in which knowledge is shaped and communicated—are crucial to solving global challenges and lie at the centre of successful and sustainable international cooperation. The 2030 Agenda highlights the importance of including knowledge interaction as a central part of any collaborative project. The book addresses these issues by focusing on the following research question: How do development partners realise modalities of knowledge interaction?
Empirical Findings
Authors: Klingebiel Stephan , Hartmann Flora L. , Madani Elisa , Paintner Jonas , Rohe Rebekka A. , Trebs Lisa , Wolk Teodor
Published: May 2024

In this chapter we present all our empirical cases via the provision of general information, followed by their modality profiles in which we categorise the partner’s modalities into modality function, format and activities. Further, we analyse their modalities along the lines of the sensitising concept and the four dimensions: Ownership, Relationship Dynamics, Innovation & Co-creation and Sustainability.
Empirical Findings Across Cases
Authors: Klingebiel Stephan , Hartmann Flora L. , Madani Elisa , Paintner Jonas , Rohe Rebekka A. , Trebs Lisa , Wolk Teodor
Published: May 2024

In this chapter, we respond to our research sub-questions by presenting the results of our data analysis across all empirical cases: (i) What are and what constitutes the different modalities of knowledge interaction of our partners? (ii) What do we know about the effectiveness of knowledge cooperation of our partners? (iii) How are modalities of knowledge interactions used by partners?
Mechanical structure of the nucleon and the baryon octet: twist-2 case
Authors: Won Ho-Yeon , Kim Hyun-Chul , Kim June-Young
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We investigate the gravitational form factors (GFFs) of the nucleon and the baryon octet, decomposed into their flavor components, utilizing a pion mean-field approach grounded in the large Nc limit of Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD). Our focus is on the contributions from the twist-2 operators to the flavor-triplet and octet GFFs, and we decompose the mass, angular momentum, and D-term form factors of the nucleon into their respective flavors. The strange quark contributions are found to be relatively mild for the mass and angular momentum form factors, while providing significant corrections to the D-term form factor. In the course of examining the flavor decomposition of the GFFs, we uncover that the effects of twist-4 operators play a crucial role. While the gluonic contributions are suppressed by the packing fraction of the instanton vacuum in the twist-2 case, contributions from twist-4 operators are of order unity, necessitating its explicit consideration.
Fast QSC solver: tool for systematic study of $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 Super-Yang-Mills spectrum
Authors: Gromov Nikolay , Hegedűs Árpád , Julius Julius , Sokolova Nika
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Integrability methods give us access to a number of observables in the planar $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM. Among them, the Quantum Spectral Curve (QSC) governs the spectrum of anomalous dimensions. Low lying states were successfully studied in the past using the QSC. However, with the increased demand for a systematic study of a large number of states for various applications, there is a clear need for a fast QSC solver which can easily access a large number of excited states. Here, we fill this gap by developing a new algorithm and applied it to study all 219 states with the bare dimension ∆0 ≤ 6 in a wide range of couplings.

The new algorithm has an improved performance at weak coupling and allows to glue numerics smoothly the available perturbative data, resolving the previous obstruction. Further ∼ 8-fold efficiency gain comes from C++ implementation over the best available Mathematica implementation. We have made the code and the data to be available via a GitHub repository.

The method is generalisable for non-local observables as well as for other theories such as deformations of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM and ABJM. It may find applications in the separation of variables and bootstrability approaches to the correlation functions. Some applications to correlators at strong coupling are also presented.
Coloured combinatorial maps and quartic bi-tracial 2-matrix ensembles from noncommutative geometry
Authors: Khalkhali Masoud , Pagliaroli Nathan
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We compute the first twenty moments of three convergent quartic bi-tracial 2-matrix ensembles in the large N limit. These ensembles are toy models for Euclidean quantum gravity originally proposed by John Barrett and collaborators. A perturbative solution is found for the first twenty moments using the Schwinger-Dyson equations and properties of certain bi-colored unstable maps associated to the model. We then apply a result of Guionnet et al. to show that the perturbative and convergent solution coincide for a small neighbourhood of the coupling constants. For each model we compute an explicit expression for the free energy, critical points, and critical exponents in the large N limit. In particular, the string susceptibility is found to be γ = 1/2, hinting that the associated universality class of the model is the continuous random tree.
Carroll strings with an extended symmetry algebra
Authors: Harksen Matthias , Hidalgo Diego , Sybesma Watse , Thorlacius Lárus
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Starting from the Polyakov action we consider two distinct Carroll limits in target space, keeping the string worldsheet relativistic. The resulting magnetic and chiral Carroll string models exhibit different symmetries and dynamics. Both models have an infinite dimensional symmetry algebra with Carroll symmetry included in a finite dimensional subalgebra. For the magnetic model, this is the so-called string Carroll algebra. The chiral model realises an extended version of the string Carroll algebra. The magnetic model does not have any transverse string excitations. The chiral model is less restrictive and includes arbitrary left-moving modes that carry transverse momentum but do not contribute to the energy in target space.
A reciprocity law in function fields
Authors: Hamahata Yoshinori
Published: May 2024

We generalize Gauss’ lemma over function fields, and establish a reciprocity law for power residue symbols. As an application, a reciprocity law for power residue symbols is established in totally imaginary function fields.
Wandel von Nutzen und Risiko antidepressiver Pharmakotherapie
Authors: Baethge Christopher
Published: May 2024

Die antidepressive Pharmakotherapie durchlief in ihrer Geschichte verschiedene Phasen: Der Euphorie der Anfangsjahre über die medikamentöse Erleichterung depressiver Syndrome folgte ein langer Zeitraum klinischer Erfahrung und intensiver wissenschaftlicher Durchdringung, die zu einer abgewogeneren Perspektive führten. Aktuelle Debatten kreisen um die tatsächliche Effektstärke – gerade in Bezug auf lange Behandlungsdauern –, die Prävention von Suiziden und die Folgen des Absetzens eines Antidepressivums. Die Bewertung der Stoffgruppe, aber oft auch das Nutzen-Schaden-Verhältnis einer individuellen Behandlung verändert sich mit der Zeit. Die Antidepressiva stehen exemplarisch für viele psychiatrische Behandlungen, die – in einem Begriff Hanfried Helmchens – ebenso janusköpfig sind wie die Psychiatrie es als Wissenschaft und als klinisches Fach ganz allgemein ist.
The significance of structural components of lignocellulosic biomass on volatile organic compounds presence on biochar - a review
Authors: Syguła Ewa , Ciolkosz Daniel , Białowiec Andrzej
Published: May 2024

The product of thermochemical processing of lignocellulosic biomass is biochar. It has a range of properties that make it suitable for a variety of economic applications. However, during pyrolysis and torrefaction, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released and may redeposit on the surface of the biochar. Some of these compounds may be harmful to the environment and humans. Bibliometric study shows that, to date, studies on the release of VOCs from biochar have been of an inventory nature and concerned with specific case studies of the specific types of biomass. To date, there has been no comprehensive and systematic analysis of the influence of lignocellulosic biomass properties and pyrolysis/torrefaction process parameters on VOC formation and redeposition on biochar. In this paper, the analysis is presented of the potential harmfulness of VOCs released during the thermochemical processing of lignocellulosic biomass components, based on cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin pyrolysis/torrefaction chemistry data. 10 volatile organic compounds from cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin pyrolysis were identified as potentially harmful due to the following properties: carcinogenicity, toxicity, flammability, skin corrosion/irritation, eye irritation, and mutagenicity, with different degrees of harmfulness. Additionally, the VOCs identified on biochar samples show a potential hazard. Among 140 identified compounds, 33 of them had harmful properties. Therefore, the redeposition on biochar of ketones, aldehydes, cyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons including polyaromatic hydrocarbons, and their derivatives, esters, and furans may lead to environmental contamination due to their release from biochar. A new niche for systematic research on the development of new knowledge regarding the biochars produced from biomass as a source of pollutant emission has been identified.
The optimal threshold of PD-L1 combined positive score to predict the benefit of PD-1 antibody plus chemotherapy for patients with HER2-negative gastric adenocarcinoma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Ji-Bin , Lai Ming-Yu , Lin Zhuo-Chen , Guan Wen-Long , Sun Yu-Ting , Yang Jing , Wang Wen-Xuan , Yang Zhi-Rong , Qiu Miao-Zhen
Published: May 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with chemotherapy have become the first-line treatment of metastatic gastric and gastroesophageal adenocarcinomas (GEACs). This study aims to figure out the optimal combined positive score (CPS) cutoff value.

Methods

We searched for randomized phase III trials to investigate the efficacy of ICIs plus chemotherapy for metastatic GEACs compared with chemotherapy alone. Pooled analyses of hazard ratios (HRs) based on PD-L1 expression were performed.

Results

A total of six trials (KEYNOTE-062, KEYNOTE-590, KEYNOTE-859, ATTRACTION-04, CheckMate 649, and ORIENT-16) were included, comprising 5,242 patients. ICIs plus chemotherapy significantly improved OS (HR: 0.79, 95% CI 0.72–0.86 in global patients; HR: 0.75, 95% CI 0.57–0.98 in Asian patients) and PFS (HR: 0.74, 95% CI 0.68–0.82 in global patients; HR: 0.64, 95% CI 0.56–0.73 in Asian patients) compared with chemotherapy alone. The differences in OS (ratio of HR: 1.05, 95% CI 0.79–1.40; predictive value: − 5.1%) and PFS (ratio of HR: 1.16, 95% CI 0.98–1.36; predictive value: − 13.5%) were not statistically significant between the global and Asian patients. Subgroup analyses indicated that the optimal CPS threshold was at ≥ 5 for OS and ≥ 10 for PFS with the highest predictive values.

Conclusions

The benefit derived from ICIs plus chemotherapy is similar between Asian and global GEAC patients. However, those with a PD-L1 CPS < 5 or CPS < 10 may not have significant benefits from ICIs therapy. Therefore, it is advisable to routinely assess PD-L1 expression in GEAC patients considered for ICIs treatment.
Low β-carotene bioaccessibility and bioavailability from high fat, dairy-based meal
Authors: Kruger Johanita , Sus Nadine , Moser Andrea , Scholz Sophie , Adler Guenther , Venturelli Sascha , Frank Jan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The original aim of the study was to determine, in a double-blind 3-arm crossover human trial (n = 7), the effect of supplemental levels of iron (25 mg) and zinc (30 mg) on β-carotene (synthetic) bioavailability (10 h postprandial). However, despite the high dose of supplemental β-carotene (15 mg) consumed with the high fat (18 g), dairy-based breakfast test meal, there was a negligible postprandial response in plasma and triglyceride rich fraction β-carotene concentrations. We then systematically investigated the possible reasons for this low bioavailability of β-carotene.

Methods

We determined (1) if the supplemental β-carotene could be micellised and absorbed by epithelial cells, using a Caco-2 cell model, (2) if the fat from the test meal was sufficiently bioavailable to facilitate β-carotene bioavailability, (3) the extent to which the β-carotene could have been metabolised and converted to retinoic acid/retinol and (4) the effect of the test meal matrix on the β-carotene bioaccessibility (in vitro digestion) and Caco-2 cellular uptake.

Results

We found that (1) The supplemental β-carotene could be micellised and absorbed by epithelial cells, (2) the postprandial plasma triacylglycerol response was substantial (approximately 75–100 mg dL−1 over 10 h), indicating sufficient lipid bioavailability to ensure β-carotene absorption, (3) the high fat content of the meal (approximately 18 g) could have resulted in increased β-carotene metabolism, (4) β-carotene bioaccessibility from the dairy-based test meal was sixfold lower (p < 0.05) than when digested with olive oil.

Conclusion

The low β-carotene bioavailability is probably due to a combination of the metabolism of β-carotene to retinol by BCMO1 and interactions of β-carotene with the food matrix, decreasing the bioaccessibility.

Trail registration

The human trail was retrospectively registered (ClinicalTrail.gov ID: NCT05840848).
Emergency critical care: closing the gap between onset of critical illness and intensive care unit admission
Authors: Dünser Martin W. , Noitz Matthias , Tschoellitsch Thomas , Bruckner Markus , Brunner Markus , Eichler Bernhard , Erblich Romana , Kalb Stephan , Knöll Marius , Szasz Johannes , Behringer Wilhelm , Meier Jens
Published: May 2024

Critical illness is an exquisitely time-sensitive condition and follows a disease continuum, which always starts before admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), in the majority of cases even before hospital admission. Reflecting the common practice in many healthcare systems that critical care is mainly provided in the confined areas of an ICU, any delay in ICU admission of critically ill patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, if appropriate critical care interventions are provided before ICU admission, this association is not observed. Emergency critical care refers to critical care provided outside of the ICU. It encompasses the delivery of critical care interventions to and monitoring of patients at the place and time closest to the onset of critical illness as well as during transfer to the ICU. Thus, emergency critical care covers the most time-sensitive phase of critical illness and constitutes one missing link in the chain of survival of the critically ill patient. Emergency critical care is delivered whenever and wherever critical illness occurs such as in the pre-hospital setting, before and during inter-hospital transfers of critically ill patients, in the emergency department, in the operating theatres, and on hospital wards. By closing the management gap between onset of critical illness and ICU admission, emergency critical care improves patient safety and can avoid early deaths, reverse mild-to-moderate critical illness, avoid ICU admission, attenuate the severity of organ dysfunction, shorten ICU length of stay, and reduce short- and long-term mortality of critically ill patients. Future research is needed to identify effective models to implement emergency critical care systems in different healthcare systems.
k–Generalized Lucas numbers, perfect powers and the problem of Pillai
Authors: Faye Bernadette , García Jonathan , Gomez Carlos A.
Published: May 2024

For an integer$$k\ge 2$$k≥2, let$$L^{(k)}$$L(k)be thek–generalized Lucas sequence which starts with$$0, \ldots , 2,1$$0,…,2,1(a total ofkterms) and for which each term afterwards is the sum of thekpreceding terms. In this paper we assume that an integerccan be represented in at least two ways as the difference between ak–generalized Lucas number and a power ofb, then using the theory of nonzero linear forms in logarithms of algebraic numbers, we bound all possible solutions on this representation ofcin terms ofb. Finally, combination our general result and some known reduction procedures based on the continued fraction algorithm, we find all the integerscand their representations for$$ b\in [2,10]$$b∈[2,10], this argument can be generalized to any$$ b> 10 $$b>10.
Modelling the potential of land use change to mitigate the impacts of climate change on future drought in the Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: Naik Myra , Abiodun Babatunde J.
Published: May 2024

Several studies have shown that climate change may enhance the severity of droughts over the Western Cape (South Africa) in the future, but there is a dearth of information on how to reduce the impacts of climate change on water yields. This study investigates the extent to which land-use changes can reduce the projected impacts of climate change on hydrological droughts in the Western Cape catchments. For the study, the Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT +) model was calibrated and evaluated over several river catchments, and the climate simulation dataset from the COordinated Regional Downscaling EXperiment (CORDEX) was bias-corrected. Using the bias-corrected climate data as a forcing, the SWAT + was used to project the impacts of future climate change on water yield in the catchments and to quantify the sensitivity of the projection to four feasible land-use change scenarios in the catchments. The land-use scenarios are the spread of forest (FOMI), the restoration of shrubland (SHRB), the expansion of cropland (CRDY), and the restoration of grassland (GRSL).

The model evaluation shows a good agreement between the simulated and observed monthly streamflows at four stations, and the bias correction of the CORDEX dataset improved the hydrological simulations. The climate change projection features an increase in temperature and potential evaporation, but a decrease in precipitation and all the hydrological variables. The drying occurs across the Western Cape, with the magnitude increasing with higher global warming levels (GWLs). The land-use changes alter these climate change impacts through changes in the hydrological water balance. FOMI increases streamflow and decreases runoff, while SHRB decreases streamflow and runoff. The influence of CRDY and GRSL are more complex. However, all the impacts of land-use changes are negligible compared to the impacts of climate change. Hence, land-use changes in the Western Cape may not be the most efficient strategies for mitigating the impacts of climate change on hydrological droughts over the region. The results of the study have application towards improving water security in the Western Cape river catchments.
Soil C:N:P stoichiometric signatures of grasslands differ between tropical and warm temperate climatic zones
Authors: Hernández-Romero Ángel Héctor , Perroni Yareni , Sánchez Velásquez Lázaro Rafael , Martínez-Hernández Sergio , Ávila-Bello Carlos Héctor , Xu Xiaofeng , Zhang Lihua
Published: May 2024

Climate and land management affect nutrient cycling in grassland ecosystems. We aimed to understand whether temperate and tropical grasslands differ in terms of soil organic carbon (SOC), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) concentrations, and their C:N:P stoichiometric ratios in grazed and ungrazed natural grasslands and pastures. For this, we used a meta-analysis approach (1296 records, 241 papers), and regression models to explain the observed patterns in terms of mean annual precipitation (MAP), mean annual temperature (MAT), altitude, and latitude. SOC, N, and P concentrations were higher in temperate regions than in tropical ones, and they negatively correlated with MAT and MAP. The grassland type effect was more significant for tropical regions. In tropical regions, soil C:N ratios were higher in ungrazed than in grazed pastures, and soil N:P ratios in ungrazed sites were higher in pastures than in natural grasslands. Grazing increases soil N and SOC for natural grasslands in temperate regions. Our findings suggest that soil stoichiometric C:N:P stoichiometric signatures in grasslands differed between tropical and temperate regions on a global scale. P is a key element in regulation and restriction on soil C and N cycling in tropical regions but less in the temperate ones. Our findings suggest the direction of effects of grazing or grassland type on C:N:P stoichiometric signature. Since imbalances in soil stoichiometric ratios may have implications for ecosystem functioning, the assessment of these patterns could serve as a valuable tool for management and conservation of grasslands and pastures in both tropical and temperate regions.
An Equity-Focused Assessment of Evidence-Based Parenting Intervention Research
Authors: Kerns Suzanne E. U. , Maddox Samuel J. , Berhanu Ruth E. , Allan Heather , Wilson Rachel A. , Chiesa Antonia , Orsi-Hunt Rebecca , McCarthy Lauren Pryce , Henry Lesly J. , Smith Chaundrissa Oyeshiku
Published: May 2024

Evidence-based parenting interventions (EBPI) support children and families to promote resilience, address emotional and behavioral concerns, and prevent or address issues related to child maltreatment. Critiques of EBPIs include concerns about their relevance and effectiveness for diverse populations when they are implemented at population scale. Research methods that center racial equity and include community-based participatory approaches have the potential to address some of these concerns. The purpose of the present review was to document the extent to which methods associated with promoting racial equity in research have been used in studies that contribute to the evidence base for programs that meet evidentiary standards for a clearinghouse that was developed to support the Family First Prevention Services Act in the United States. We developed a coding system largely based on the Culturally Responsive Evaluation model. A sample of 47 papers that are part of the evidence base for ten in-home parent skill-based programs were reviewed and coded. Only three of 28 possible codes were observed to occur in over half of the studies (including race/ethnicity demographic characteristics, conducting measure reliability for the study sample, and including information on socioeconomic status). Although the overall presence of equity-informed methods was low, a positive trend was observed over time. This review highlights ways in which rigorous research can incorporate racial equity into the planning, design, execution, and interpretation and dissemination of programs of study. We posit that doing so improves the external validity of studies while maintaining high-quality research that can contribute to an evidence base.
A heatmap for expected cumulative live birth rate in preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders and chromosomal structural rearrangements
Authors: Van Der Kelen Annelore , Keymolen Kathelijn , Cools Wilfried , De Vos Anick , Pölsler Laura , De Vos Michel , Blockeel Christophe , Fernandez-Gallardo Elia , De Rycke Martine , Berckmoes Veerle , Verdyck Pieter , Hes Frederik Jan , Verpoest Willem
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Our objective is to predict the cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) and identify the specific subset within the population undergoing preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M) and chromosomal structural rearrangements (PGT-SR) which is likely to exhibit a diminished expected CLBR based on various patient demographics.

Methods

We performed a single-centre retrospective cohort study including 1522 women undergoing 3130 PGT cycles at a referral centre for PGT. A logistic regression analysis was performed to predict the CLBR per ovarian stimulation in women undergoing PGT-M by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array, and in women undergoing PGT-SR by SNP array, array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) or next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Results

The mean age of women was 32.6 years, with a mean AMH of 2.75 µg/L. Female age and AMH significantly affected the expected CLBR irrespective of the inheritance mode or PGT technology. An expected CLBR < 10% was reached above the age of 42 years and AMH ≤ 1.25 µg/L. We found no significant difference in outcome per ovarian stimulation between the different PGT technologies, i.e. PCR, SNP array, array CGH and NGS. Whereas per embryo transfer, we noticed a significantly higher probability of live birth when SNP array, array CGH and NGS were used as compared to PCR.

Conclusion

In a PGT-setting, couples with an unfavourable female age and AMH should be informed of the prognosis to allow other reproductive choices. The heatmap produced in this study can be used as a visual tool for PGT couples.
Lewis acid catalysis of polydopamine electropolymerisation as a tool for shaping its morphology and electrochemical properties
Authors: Polaczek Krzysztof , Olejnik Adrian , Gumieniak Justyna , Kramek Agnieszka , Karczewski Jakub , Siuzdak Katarzyna
Published: May 2024

Organic–inorganic semiconductor interfaces are of utmost importance in many photoelectrochemical applications, including water splitting and photodegradation of pollutants. The current work focuses on the fabrication and characterisation of transition metal-loaded polydopamine (PDA) electropolymerised on the surface of titania nanotubes. The structural studies via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electron microscopy confirmed the catalytic effect of d-metal salts on the formation of the PDA layer during electropolymerisation. Cu and Ni loading leads to a significant enhancement of the visible absorption compared to that of the pristine PDA, also confirmed by the density functional theory calculations. Although the boost is greater for the thickest coatings, an excess amount of polymer suppresses the charge transfer and thus photocurrent generation. Synthesis in acidic conditions—optimal for photosensitisation—provides structures with a strong increase in the photocurrent quantum efficiency in the visible range, equal to 20% at 400 nm.

Graphical Abstract
An innovative method to strengthen evidence for potential drug safety signals using Electronic Health Records
Authors: Abedian Kalkhoran H. , Zwaveling J. , van Hunsel F. , Kant A.
Published: May 2024

Reports from spontaneous reporting systems (SRS) are hypothesis generating. Additional evidence such as more reports is required to determine whether the generated drug-event associations are in fact safety signals. However, underreporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) delays signal detection. Through the use of natural language processing, different sources of real-world data can be used to proactively collect additional evidence for potential safety signals. This study aims to explore the feasibility of using Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to identify additional cases based on initial indications from spontaneous ADR reports, with the goal of strengthening the evidence base for potential safety signals. For two confirmed and two potential signals generated by the SRS of the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, targeted searches in the EHR of the Leiden University Medical Centre were performed using a text-mining based tool, CTcue. The search for additional cases was done by constructing and running queries in the structured and free-text fields of the EHRs. We identified at least five additional cases for the confirmed signals and one additional case for each potential safety signal. The majority of the identified cases for the confirmed signals were documented in the EHRs before signal detection by the Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board. The identified cases for the potential signals were reported to Lareb as further evidence for signal detection. Our findings highlight the feasibility of performing targeted searches in the EHR based on an underlying hypothesis to provide further evidence for signal generation.
The Links Between Insecure Attachment to God, Divine Struggles, and Happiness and Depressive Symptoms Among Muslims and Jews in Israel
Authors: Shoshan Tali Sasson , Chaki-Binon Hagar , Abu-Raiya Hisham
Published: May 2024

This investigation aimed to explore a theoretical model that examines the relationship between patterns of insecure attachment to God (i.e., anxious, avoidant), God-focused religious coping (i.e., divine struggles, positive religious coping), and mental health and well-being (i.e., happiness, depressive symptoms). The study's participants were 340 Israeli Jewish and Muslim individuals who completed electronic self-report questionnaires to assess the main variables of the study. The theoretical model was tested using Structural Equation Modeling. The analysis' findings indicated that there were no direct links between both patterns of insecure attachment to God and both happiness and depressive symptoms. Additionally, both anxious and avoidant attachment to God were found to be positively associated with divine struggles, and the latter mediated the relationship between both anxious and avoidant attachment to God and depressive symptoms. Furthermore, there were no significant associations between positive religious coping and any of the other variables in the study. Moreover, a comparative analysis revealed that the pattern of associations between the variables in the study was not dependent on gender or religious affiliation. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
Spiritual care in the dementia ward during a pandemic
Authors: Cooreman-Guittin Talitha
Published: May 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic and the repeated lockdowns have caused substantial spiritual and existential suffering, not the least for persons with dementia who may have had more difficulties than others in grasping the reality of what was going on. Therefore, it is important to address spirituality within this sector of the population when considering global health and ethics and technology in a pandemic outbreak. This contribution starts firstly with a definition of spirituality and spiritual care. Secondly, based on the works of Elizabeth MacKinlay and Laura Dewitte, the article demonstrates how spirituality can be nurtured in the dementia ward through “spiritual reminiscence.” Finally, I briefly reflect on how spiritual care in the dementia ward was affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The impact of progressive era labor regulations on annual earnings and employment in manufacturing in the USA, 1904–1919
Authors: Allen Samuel K. , Fishback Price V. , Holmes Rebecca
Published: May 2024

We analyze the impact of the broad range of state labor regulations on employment and annual earnings in manufacturing for wage earners and salaried workers using a new panel data set for the 48 US states in 1904, 1909, 1914, and 1919. The effects of state labor regulations influenced the labor market for wage earners and had virtually no effect on the market for salaried workers. Fixed effects analysis shows that increases in a newly developed labor law index were associated with a rise in employment and a decline in earnings for wage workers. These changes imply a dominant rise in labor supply that reflected marginal benefits for workers that were higher than the marginal costs or marginal benefits to employers. After the demand and supply shifts were completed, both workers and employers ultimately experienced improved gains from trade. Under a wide range of assumptions about the earnings elasticity of demand, the results are also consistent with the regulation increasing labor demand and thus providing positive marginal benefits to employers. The effects of appropriations per gainfully employed worker were much smaller and depended on the size of the law index.