bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Patient-Centered Perspective on Changes in Personal Characteristics After Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Merner Amanda R. , Frazier Thomas W. , Ford Paul J. , Lapin Brittany , Wilt Joshua , Racine Eric , Gase Natalie , Leslie Essence , Machado Andre , Vitek Jerrold L. , Kubu Cynthia S.
Published: September 2024

Importance

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) results in improvements in motor function and quality of life in patients with Parkinson disease (PD), which might impact a patient’s perception of valued personal characteristics. Prior studies investigating whether DBS causes unwanted changes to oneself or one’s personality have methodological limitations that should be addressed.

Objective

To determine whether DBS is associated with changes in characteristics that patients with PD identify as personally meaningful.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study assessed changes in visual analog scale (VAS) ratings reflecting the extent to which patients with PD manifested individually identified personal characteristics before and 6 and 12 months after DBS at a large academic medical center from February 21, 2018, to December 9, 2021. The VAS findings were tailored to reflect the top 3 individually identified personal characteristics the patient most feared losing. The VASs were scored from 0 to 10, with 0 representing the least and 10 the most extreme manifestation of the trait. Change scores were examined at the individual level. Content analysis was used to code the qualitative data. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed from January 12, 2019 (initial qualitative coding), to December 15, 2023.

Exposure

Deep brain stimulation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome variable was the mean VAS score for the top 3 personal characteristics. The secondary outcome was the incidence of meaningful changes on the patients’ top 3 characteristics at the individual level.

Results

Fifty-two of 54 dyads of patients with PD and their care partners (96.3%) were recruited from a consecutive series approved for DBS (36 patients [69.2%] were male and 45 care partners [86.5%] were female; mean [SD] age of patients, 61.98 [8.55] years). Two patients and 1 care partner were lost to follow-up. Increases in the mean VAS score (indicative of greater manifestation of [ie, positive changes in] specific characteristics) were apparent following DBS for ratings of both the patients (Wald χ2 = 16.104; P < .001) and care partners (Wald χ2 = 6.746; P < .001) over time. The slopes of the changes for both the patient and care partners were correlated, indicating agreement in observed changes over time. The individual level analyses indicated that scores for most patients and care partners remained the same or increased.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, participants reported greater (more positive) manifestations of individually identified, valued characteristics after DBS. These findings may be relevant to informing decision-making for patients with advanced PD who are considering DBS.
Structural Basis of Ion Transport in Copper‐Transporting P
IB
‐Type ATPases
Authors: Bågenholm Viktoria , Gourdon Pontus
Published: September 2024

Maintaining correct copper levels is vital for all cells, as copper is required for a large number of cellular processes, but is also toxic due to its high reactivity. Such regulation is accomplished using a range of processes, including the P
IB‐1
‐subgroup of P‐type ATPases. These primary active transporters exploit ATP to shuttle copper across cellular membranes, either out of the cell or into various organelles for cellular use, such as incorporation into copper‐dependent proteins. The pumping of copper across the membrane follows a conserved scheme, called the Post‐Albers cycle, where the protein cycles through a series of states, from inward‐open (E1) to inward‐occluded (E1P), outward‐open (E2P), and outward‐occluded (E2) and back, coupled to phosphorylation by ATP and dephosphorylation. This is established via a conserved core consisting of three soluble A‐, P‐, and N‐domains, and a transmembrane domain formed by eight membrane‐spanning helices, MA, MB, and M1–M6, as well as a varying number of metal‐binding domains MBDs, which typically are part of the N‐terminus. Copper is delivered to the P
IB‐1
‐transporter from small molecule or protein copper chaperones inside the cytoplasm, likely assisted by an MBD. The metal is then transferred to a methionine of M1 at the membrane interface, which relocates it to two conserved cysteines of the CPC motif in M4. Next, one or two high‐affinity‐binding sites are established in the M‐domain, again utilizing cysteines and methionines. Finally, release is achieved via an outward‐facing exit tunnel lined by methionines. While much of this pathway has been elucidated through determined molecular structures, important questions remain, for example, regarding the number of high‐affinity‐binding sites and the roles of the MBDs. Here, the structural details of the transport of copper through P
IB‐1
‐type ATPases will be described.
miR‐133b as a potential regulator of a synaptic NPTX2 protein in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Han Sang‐Won , Park Young Ho , Bice Paula J , Bennett David A. , Kim SangYun , Saykin Andrew J. , Nho Kwangsik
Published: September 2024

A synaptic protein, Neuronal Pentraxin 2 (NPTX2), has emerged as a pivotal biomarker for Alzheimer's dementia (AD). We identified candidate miRNAs targeting NPTX2 and performed association and mediation analyses using multi‐omics data (N = 702). Among 44 candidate miRNAs, miR‐133b was significantly associated with AD and Braak positivity. Higher miR‐133b expression was also associated with higher NPTX2 gene expression and better cognition. Mediation analysis showed that miR‐133b partially influences AD and cognition through the NPTX2 protein. Our integrated approach suggests a potential role of miR‐133b in synaptic integrity and offers new insights into AD pathogenesis.
2D CrSBr Enables Magnetically Controllable Exciton‐Polaritons in an Open Cavity
Authors: Li Chun , Shen Chao , Jiang Nai , Tang Kwok Kwan , Liu Xinfeng , Guo Jiaqi , Liang Yin , Song Jiepeng , Deng Xinyi , Zhang Qing
Published: September 2024

2D van der Waals (vdW) layered materials exhibit significant exciton binding energy and versatile stacking options, making them ideal for room‐temperature exciton‐polariton devices used in low‐threshold lasing, nonlinear optical switching, and quantum computing. However, most existing systems depend on external optical microcavities coupled with single monolayers, leading to limited controllability and increased costs. Here, external cavity‐free vdW magnet CrSBr crystals are presented that feature magnetically controllable self‐hybridized exciton‐polaritons that remain stable up to room temperature. The ultrastrong exciton‐photon coupling suppresses donor‐, phonon‐, and defect‐related emissions. Furthermore, the exciton‐polariton dispersion and emission spectra can be effectively controlled by adjusting the magnetic field, temperature, and CrSBr thickness. This vdW exciton‐polariton material platform, demonstrating remarkable magnetic responsiveness in open cavity configurations under ambient conditions, paves the way for the development of compact, fast, and low‐loss spin, quantum, and magneto‐photonic devices.
Recent Advances in Visible‐Light‐Mediated Synthesis of Phosphorylated Heterocycles
Authors: Zeng Fan‐lin , Jia Zhenhua , Loh Teck‐Peng
Published: September 2024

Organophosphorus compounds, especially phosphorylated heterocycles, are gaining increasing attention in the fields of materials science, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemistry due to their excellent biological activities. Consequently, the exploration of green and efficient methods for the synthesis of phosphorylated heterocycles has garnered significant interest from organic chemists. In recent years, visible light‐induced photoredox‐catalyzed organic synthesis has made substantial progress in the field of phosphorylation reaction since its eco‐friendly and mild conditions. This review summarizes the advances of the past five years in the visible‐light‐mediated synthesis of phosphorylated heterocycles using phosphine oxides as precursors through P‐centered radical addition, cross‐coupling, and cyclization reactions.
Achieving Optimal Health With Host‐Directed Therapies (HDTs) in Infectious Diseases—A New Horizon
Authors: Gholap Amol D. , Khuspe Pankaj R. , Pardeshi Sagar R. , Uddin Md Jasim , Das Ushasi , Hatvate Navnath T. , Rojekar Satish , Giram Prabhanjan , Khalid Mohammad , Choonara Yahya E. , Faiyazuddin Md.
Published: September 2024

Host‐directed therapies (HDTs) have emerged as a promising strategy to combat viral infections by modifying host factors and immune responses to restrict viral replication and improve patient outcomes. This review summarizes the latest advances and future potential of HDTs in antiviral therapy. With developments in genomics and proteomics, new host targets essential for viral replication have been identified. Gene‐editing tools, such as CRISPR‐Cas9, enable precise manipulation of host genes linked to viral processes, paving the way for innovative HDTs. Emerging approaches, including RNA interference and viral interference, further demonstrate the potential to specifically modify host factors to inhibit viral replication. Additionally, probiotics are being explored for their capacity to enhance immune responses and modulate gut microbiota, offering a natural and safe method for boosting antiviral defenses. Despite these advancements, significant challenges remain, particularly in deciphering complex host–virus interactions and ensuring the safety and efficacy of these therapies. Continued research and clinical evaluation are essential to realize the full potential of HDTs. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current HDT strategies, emphasizing their promise in shaping future antiviral interventions.
Bioactive Ion‐Confined Ultracapacitive Memristors with Neuromorphic Functions
Authors: Li Panlong , Feder‐Kubis Joanna , Kunigkeit Jonas , Zielińska‐Błajet Mariola , Brunner Eike , Grothe Julia , Kaskel Stefan
Published: September 2024

The field of bioinspired iontronics, bridging electronic devices and ionic systems, has multiple biological applications. Carbon‐based ultracapacitive devices hold promise for controlling bioactive ions via electric double layers due to their high‐surface‐area and biocompatible porous carbon electrodes. However, the interplay between complex bioactive ions and porous carbons remains unclear due to the variety of structures of bioactive ions present in biological systems. Herein, we investigate the adsorption behavior of a series of bioactive ammonium‐based cations with varying alkyl chain lengths in nanoporous carbons. We find that strong physisorption results from the synergistic hydrophobic interaction and electrostatic attraction between porous carbons (with a negative zeta potential) and bioactive cations. Bioactive cations with varying alkyl chain lengths can be irreversibly physically adsorbed and confined within nanoporous carbons resulting in anion enrichment and depletion during electric polarization. This situation, in turn, results in a characteristic memristive behavior in all‐carbon capacitive ionic memristor devices. Our findings highlight the relationship between the resistance state of the memristor and ion adsorption mechanisms in all‐carbon capacitive devices, which hold potential for future transmitter delivery, biointerfacing, and neuromorphic devices.
Atom‐Efficient Synthesis of Trimethine Cyanines Using Formaldehyde as a Single‐Carbon Source
Authors: Lee Sun Hyeok , Lee Taek‐Jun , Sarkar Sourav , Cho Heewon , Nhu Quynh Pham Nguyen , Chang Young‐Tae
Published: September 2024

Herein, we present an innovative and atom‐efficient synthesis of trimethine cyanines (Cy3) using formaldehyde (FA) as a single‐carbon reagent. The widespread application of Cy3 dyes in bioimaging and genomics/proteomics is often limited by synthetic routes plagued by low atom economy and substantial side‐product formation. Through systematic investigation, we have developed a practical and efficient synthetic pathway for both symmetrical and unsymmetrical Cy3 derivatives, significantly minimizing resource utilization. Notably, this approach yields water as the by‐product, in alignment with sustainable chemistry principles. Moreover, the efficient one‐pot synthesis facilitates the detection of intracellular FA levels, utilizing the fluorescence signal of Cy3 in live cells. It is also possible to detect endogenous FA in the intestinal tissues. We observed a significant decrease in FA in the small intestine of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) mice as compared to healthy mice. This methodological advancement not only enhances the scope of fluorescent dye synthesis but also contributes to sustainable practices within chemical manufacturing, offering a significant leap forward in the development of environmentally friendly synthetic strategies.
Full‐Color Emissive Zirconium‐Organic Frameworks Constructed via in Situ “One‐Pot” Single‐Site Modification for Tryptophan Detection and Energy Transfer
Authors: Fang Pu‐Hao , Qu Lu‐Lu , Ma Zhen‐Sha , Han Chao‐Qin , Li Zhendong , Wang Lei , Zhou Kang , Li Jingbai , Liu Xiao‐Yuan
Published: September 2024

Organic linker‐based luminescent metal–organic frameworks (LMOFs) have received extensive studies due to the unlimited species of emissive organic linkers and tunable structure of MOFs. However, the multiple‐step organic synthesis is always a great challenge for the development of LMOFs. As an alternative strategy, in situ “one‐pot” strategy, in which the generation of emissive organic linkers and sequential construction of LMOFs happen in one reaction condition, can avoid time‐consuming pre‐synthesis of organic linkers. In the present work, we demonstrate the successful utilization of in situ “one‐pot” strategy to construct a series of LMOFs via the single‐site modification between the reaction of aldehydes and o‐phenylenediamine‐based tetratopic carboxylic acid. The resultant MOFs possess csq topology with emission covering blue to near‐infrared. The nanosized LMOFs exhibit excellent sensitivity and selectivity for tryptophan detection. In addition, two component‐based LMOFs can also be prepared via the in situ “one‐pot” strategy and used to study energy transfer. This work not only reports the construction of LMOFs with full‐color emissions, which can be utilized for various applications, but also indicates that in situ “one‐pot” strategy indeed is a useful and powerful method to complement the traditional MOFs construction method for preparing porous materials with tunable functionalities and properties.
Interfacially Fabricated Covalent Organic Framework Membranes for Film‐Based Fluorescence Humidity Sensors and Moisture Driven Actuators
Authors: Liu Xiangquan , Huang Rongrong , Peng Lingya , Yang Jinglun , Yan Junbao , Zhai Binbin , Luo Yan , Zhang Chi , Tan Shuwen , Liu Xiaoyan , Ding Liping , Fang Yu
Published: September 2024

Rapid, on‐site measurement of ppm‐level humidity in real time remains a challenge. In this work, we fabricated a few micrometer thick, β‐ketoenamine‐linked covalent organic framework (COF) membrane via interfacially confined condensation of 1,3,5‐tris‐(4‐aminophenyl)triazine (TTA) with 1,3,5‐tri‐formylphloroglucinol (TP). Based on the super‐sensitive and reversible response of the COF membrane to water vapor, we developed a high‐performance film‐based fluorescence humidity sensor, depicting unprecedented detection limit of 0.005 ppm, fast response/recovery (2.2 s/2.0 s), and a detection range from 0.005 to 100 ppm. Remarkably, more than 7,000‐time continuous tests showed no observable change in the performance of the sensor. The applicability of the sensor was verified by on‐site and real‐time monitoring of humidity in a glovebox. The superior performance of the sensor was ascribed to the highly porous structure and unique affinity of the COF membrane to water molecules as they enable fast mass transfer and efficient utilization of the water binding sites. Moreover, based on the remarkable moisture driven deformation of the COF membrane and its composition with the known polyimide films, some conceptual actuators were created. This study brings new ideas to the design of ultra‐sensitive film‐based fluorescent sensors (FFSs) and high‐performance actuators.
High Performance Organic Mixed Ionic‐Electronic Polymeric Conductor with Stability to Autoclave Sterilization
Authors: Liao Hailiang , Savva Achilleas , Marsh Adam V. , Yang Yu‐Ying , Faber Hendrik , Rimmele Martina , Sanviti Matteo , Zhou Renqian , Emwas Abdul‐Hamid , Martín Jaime , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , Heeney Martin
Published: September 2024

We present a series of newly developed donor‐acceptor (D‐A) polymers designed specifically for organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) synthesized by a straightforward route. All polymers exhibited accumulation mode behavior in OECT devices, and tuning of the donor comonomer resulted in a three‐order‐of‐magnitude increase in transconductance. The best polymer gFBT‐g2T, exhibited normalized peak transconductance (gm,norm) of 298±10.4 S cm−1 with a corresponding product of charge‐carrier mobility and volumetric capacitance, μC*, of 847 F V−1 cm−1 s−1 and a μ of 5.76 cm2 V−1 s−1, amongst the highest reported to date. Furthermore, gFBT‐g2T exhibited exceptional temperature stability, maintaining the outstanding electrochemical performance even after undergoing a standard (autoclave) high pressure steam sterilization procedure. Steam treatment was also found to promote film porosity, with the formation of circular 200–400 nm voids. These results demonstrate the potential of gFBT‐g2T in p‐type accumulation mode OECTs, and pave the way for the use in implantable bioelectronics for medical applications.
Epitaxial crystallization of polylactic acid on layered zinc phenylphosphonate: Mutual perpendicular rodlike crystals under two lattice matchings
Authors: Ding Shi‐Juan , Cui Ling‐Na , Liu Yue‐Jun
Published: September 2024

As a highly effective nucleating agent, layered zinc phenylphosphonate (PPZn) is incorporated into polylactic acid (PLA) to investigate the epitaxial crystallization of PLA on PPZn in this study. The corresponding lattice spacing change, crystalline morphology, and crystalline structure are emphasized to reveal the epitaxial crystallization mechanism. As a result, with the increase of PPZn content and the annealing time, the increasing lattice spacing of PPZn and the formation of mutually perpendicular rodlike crystals are observed through x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and polarized optical micrograph (POM) measurements, implying that the interlayer spacing of PPZn crystals is expanded as the PLAα‐form crystals epitaxially grow on its surface, that is, epitaxial crystallization. To be specific, “edge on” lamellae epitaxial grow on the PPZn crystals along the [010] and [100] directions under two excellent lattice matchings, which possess acceptable mismatching of 0.347% and 7.5%, respectively. With the support of the epitaxial crystallization mechanism, the occurrence of the filamentous structure observed in the fracture morphology of PLA/PPZn composites suggests strong interfacial adhesion between PLA and PPZn, which makes the impact toughness of the PLA/PPZn composites increase by 53.6% compared with pure PLA.
Mechanistic Insights and Emerging Trends in Photocatalytic Dye Degradation for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Tak Sahil , Grewal Sanjeet , Shreya  , Phogat Peeyush , Manisha  , Jha Ranjana , Singh Sukhvir
Published: September 2024

This review explores advancements, challenges, and considerations in photocatalytic dye degradation for sustainable wastewater treatment. It highlights smart photocatalyst design, visible‐light‐responsive materials, and co‐catalyst engineering, which enhance system efficacy. Despite environmental concerns, the eco‐friendly aspects of photocatalysis offer a promising alternative to traditional methods. Future perspectives emphasize nanotechnology's role in developing effective photocatalysts and integrating visible‐light and solar‐driven systems to meet sustainability goals. Efforts in co‐catalyst engineering and reactor design aim to optimize processes, addressing kinetic and scalability challenges, while economic research focuses on reducing costs to improve competitiveness.
Solid‐Acid Catalyzed Continuous‐Flow Aminolysis of Epoxides
Authors: Nishizawa Ken , Saito Yuki , Kobayashi Shū
Published: September 2024

We report a solid‐acid catalyzed aminolysis of epoxides under continuous‐flow conditions. A titania‐zirconia supported molybdenum oxide catalyst demonstrated exceptional substrate compatibility, enabling the synthesis of β‐amino alcohols in excellent yields with high catalyst durability. Characterization of the catalyst revealed the crucial role of the titania‐zirconia ratio in optimizing its performance. Furthermore, this method was applied to the efficient, sequential‐flow synthesis of a rivaroxaban intermediate (an oral anticoagulant and the first direct factor Xa inhibitor), combining a hydrogenation step with the aminolysis reaction without the need for intermediate isolation.
Peptide Catalyzed Conjugate Additions to β‐Nitroacrylates – Steric Bulk Increases the Reaction Rate
Authors: Budinská Alena , Schmutz Luca , Schnurr Martin , Aregger Nina , Hilpert Patrick , Wennemers Helma
Published: September 2024

The organocatalytic conjugate addition of aldehydes to β‐nitroacrylates provides direct access to β‐ester‐γ‐nitroaldehydes and, thereby, common structural motifs of many bioactive compounds. However, the deactivation of amine‐based catalysts by alkylation with the highly electrophilic nitroacrylates hampers this reaction. Here, we show that the peptide H‐Mep‐dPro‐dGlu‐NH2, which is reluctant to undergo alkylation, catalyzes this reaction at low catalyst loading (0.5–1 mol %) within short reaction times (15–60 min) to yield a broad range of β‐ester‐γ‐nitroaldehydes with high stereoselectivity. Kinetic studies revealed that increased steric bulk on the β‐nitroacrylate enhances the reaction rate by hindering catalyst alkylation.
Colitis in a patient with familial Mediterranean fever: Is it Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis?
Authors: Hoshi Ayano , Shimodate Yuichi , Gotoda Tatsuhiro , Takezawa Rio , Nishimura Naoyuki , Mouri Hirokazu , Matsueda Kazuhiro , Mizuno Motowo , Matsumoto Takayuki
Published: September 2024

A 24‐year‐old woman was referred to our hospital with joint pain, fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. A colonoscopy revealed longitudinal ulcers with a cobblestone appearance throughout the entire colon, suggestive of Crohn's disease. However, treatment with 5‐aminosalicylic acid, azathioprine, and infliximab failed to achieve clinical remission. A colonoscopy 5 months later revealed a diffusely spreading granular mucosa without visible vasculature, compatible with active ulcerative colitis. Based on these serial changes in colonic lesions, we tested the patient for MEFV gene mutations and found variants E148Q and L110P in exon 2. Administration of colchicine resulted in complete clinical remission. Our experience suggests that drastic changes in the features of colonic inflammation may be a clue to the diagnosis of enterocolitis associated with familial Mediterranean fever.
Developmental cochlear defects are involved in early‐onset hearing loss in A/J mice
Authors: Kui Lihong , Ma Peng , Zhao Wenben , Yan Bin , Kuang Xiaojing , Li Bo , Geng Ruishuang , Zheng Tihua , Zheng Qingyin
Published: September 2024

Background

A/J mice exhibited a severe hearing loss (HL) at juvenile stage. Up‐to‐date, studies on HL in A/J mice have mostly focused on the damage or dysfunction of hair cells (HCs), spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs), and stereocilia. We examined A/J mice at the early postnatal stage and found that the damage and the loss of outer hair cells (OHCs) are not severe enough to explain the profound HL observed at this age, which suggests that other cochlear defects may be responsible for HL. To better understand the mechanisms of early‐onset HLin A/J mice, we characterized the pathology of the cochlea from postnatal day 3 to day 21.

Results

Our results showed defects in cochlear HC stereocilia and MET channel function as early as 3 days old. We also found abnormal localization and a significant reduction in the number of ribbon synapses in 2‐week‐old A/J mice. There are also abnormalities in the cochlear nerve innervation and terminal swellings in 3‐week‐old A/J mice.

Conclusion

All of the abnormalities of cochlear existed in the A/J mice were identified in the juvenile stage and occurred before HCs or auditory nerve loss and was the initial pathological change. Our results suggest that developmental defects and subsequent cochlear degeneration are responsible for early‐onset hearing loss in A/J mice.
Ultrasmall Fe‐Nanoclusters‐Anchored Carbon Polyhedrons Interconnected with Carbon Nanotubes for High‐Performance Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Wu Haihua , Wu Feng , Zhai Juanjuan , Li Yudan , Xu Xin , Gao Yunfang
Published: September 2024

The catalytic activity of metal catalyst is closely related to its particle size. Yet, the size effect in electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), an important reaction for metal‐air batteries and fuel cells, has not been clearly studied. Herein, a two‐step anchoring method is utilized to control the Fe catalyst in forms of nanoparticles (NPs), ultrasmall nanoclusters (NCTs), and isolated atoms as well as stabilized and dispersed by carbon polyhedrons interconnected with carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The uniformly distributed Fe NCTs displays superior ORR performance compared with Fe NPs, isolated Fe atoms, and commercial Pt/C. The brilliant ORR activity of Fe NCTs is a result of its unique electron structure and abundant edge and corner active sites. Due to the porous structure of carbon polyhedrons and high electron conductivity of CNTs, Fe NCTs also delivers an excellent discharge performance in zinc‐air battery with a peak power density of 213.3 mW cm−2 and long‐term stability. In these findings, a new strategy for the design of metal NCTs catalysts applied in various catalytic reactions is opened up.
Effects of different thermal processing methods on amino acid, fatty acid, and volatile flavor substance contents of Aohan millet (Golden seedling millet)
Authors: Cheng Likun , Qu Shuang , Yun Yueying , Ren Yan , Guo Fucheng , Zhang Yakun , Wang Guoze
Published: September 2024

Aohan millet has been cultivated for 8000 years and has rich nutritional value, such as high‐quality fatty acids and amino acids. Thermal processing is a conventional approach to food preparation. However, the effect of thermal processing on the formation of flavor substances in millet has not been clarified. Therefore, in this study, the effects of three different thermal processing techniques, namely, steaming, stir‐frying, and puffing, on the amino acids, fatty acids, and volatile flavor substances of Aohan millet were investigated using high‐speed automatic amino acid analyzer, headspace solid‐phase microextraction method, combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS‐SPME/GC–MS) and gas chromatography (GC) with Aohan millet from Inner Mongolia as the raw material. All three thermal processing methods notably reduced the levels of protein, starch, polyphenols, and flavonoids in Aohan millet when compared to the raw millet (p < .05). Amino acid and fatty acid contents demonstrated an increase in fried and puffed millet relative to steamed millet, with notable distinctions in amino acid and fatty acid contents between these two groups. Following the steaming process, there was a significant increase in the flavor compounds of Aohan millet, rising from 53 to 80, while this increase was not observed in the other two groups. The correlation analysis suggested that the formation of flavor compounds was predominantly influenced by the types and levels of amino acids. The study suggested that different heat treatments affected the amino acid, fatty acid, and more significantly flavor material content and composition of Aohan millet. In conclusion, steaming treatment could retain more nutrients and richer flavor substances; while puffing treatment would enhance amino acid and fatty acid content, which provides a fundamental basis for scientifically guided processing and rational culinary application of Aohan millet.
Improvement proposals and actions in medication error reports: Quality and strength: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Valkonen Ville , Haatainen Kaisa , Saano Susanna , Tiihonen Miia
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Medication errors (MEs) are a significant source of preventable harm in patient care. Voluntary incident reporting and ME reporting systems are essential for managing medication safety. Analyzing aggregated ME reports instead of individual reports can reveal organizational risks. Organizational culture influences reporting activity and the effectiveness of safety improvements depends on their system‐focus. This study uses aggregated ME reports to investigate the ME management process and reporting culture in medication safety. It aims to create a hierarchy for ME improvement actions and analyze their strength and management flow in aggregated reports.

Methods

A retrospective, cross‐sectional study was conducted to review improvement proposals and actions of ME reports in a Finnish tertiary hospital in 2017–2021. The improvement proposals and actions were categorized into strength classes during three stages: reporter proposals, manager proposals, and documented actions. The report management flow was analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the characteristics and the chi‐squared test for categorical variables in the statistical analysis.

Results

A new strength classification hierarchy was created with three classes and corresponding numerical values: “strong (3),” “medium (2),” and “weak (1)” Additionally, categories for “no action (0)” and “vague (0)” were included. Out of 5463 ME reports analyzed, improvement proposals and actions were predominantly weak, ranging from 23.4% to 54.2% across different stages of the management process. A significant proportion had no action included (20.5−49.1%) or were vague (4.2−20.6%).

Conclusion

Analyzing the strength of improvement proposals and actions in aggregated ME reports provides new insights into reporting culture and the ME management. The new combined strength classification hierarchy is a suitable tool for this analysis.
Family history and genetic risk score combined to guide cancer risk stratification: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Ji Chen , Ge Wenjing , Zhu Chen , Shen Fang , Yu Yuhui , Pang Guanlian , Li Qiao , Zhu Mingxuan , Ma Zhimin , Zhu Xia , Fu Yating , Gong Linnan , Wang Tianpei , Du Lingbin , Jin Guangfu , Zhu Meng
Published: September 2024

Family history (FH) of cancer and polygenic risk scores (PRS) are pivotal for cancer risk assessment, yet their combined impact remains unclear. Participants in the UK Biobank (UKB) were recruited between 2006 and 2010, with complete follow‐up data updated until February 2020 for Scotland and January 2021 for England and Wales. Using UKB data (N = 442,399), we constructed PRS and incidence‐weighted overall cancer PRS (CPRS). FH was assessed through self‐reported standardized questions. Among 202,801 men (34.6% with FH) and 239,598 women (42.0% with FH), Cox regression was used to examine the associations between FH, PRS, and cancer risk. We found a significant dose–response relationship between FH of cancer and corresponding cancer risk (Ptrend < .05), with over 10 significant pairs of cross‐cancer effects of FH. FH and PRS are positively correlated and independent. Joint effects of FH of cancer (multiple cancers) and PRS (CPRS) on corresponding cancer risk were observed: for instance, compared with participants with no FH of cancer and low PRS, men with FH of cancer and high PRS had the highest risk of colorectal cancer (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.01–4.52). Additive interactions were observed in prostate and overall cancer risk for men and breast cancer for women, with the most significant result being a relative excess risk of interaction (RERI) of 2.98, accounting for ~34% of the prostate cancer risk. In conclusion, FH and PRS collectively contribute to cancer risk, supporting their combined application in personalized risk assessment and early intervention strategies.
Metabolic regulation of the tumour and its microenvironment: The role of Epstein–Barr virus
Authors: Lee Shen‐Han , Khoo Alan Soo‐Beng , Griffiths John R. , Mat Lazim Norhafiza
Published: September 2024

The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), the first identified human tumour virus, infects over 95% of the individuals globally and has the potential to induce different types of cancers. It is increasingly recognised that EBV infection not only alters cellular metabolism, contributing to neoplastic transformation, but also utilises several non‐cell autonomous mechanisms to shape the metabolic milieu in the tumour microenvironment (TME) and its constituent stromal and immune cells. In this review, we explore how EBV modulates metabolism to shape the interactions between cancer cells, stromal cells, and immune cells within a hypoxic and acidic TME. We highlight how metabolites resulting from EBV infection act as paracrine factors to regulate the TME, and how targeting them can disrupt barriers to immunotherapy.
Comparing imaging modalities in the assessment of fibrosis in metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Ravanbakhsh Naseem , Browne Debra , Weaver Carly , Gholikhani Asal , Kavarian Patil , Mitsinikos Tania
Published: September 2024

Background

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common liver disease in children. Liver biopsy is considered the gold standard for diagnosis. Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) and transient elastography (TE) are imaging modalities that can monitor fibrosis and steatosis noninvasively. More studies are needed to identify whether imaging modalities can provide accurate and reproducible data. We hypothesize that MRE provides reliable data similar to that of TE when compared to liver biopsy in children with MASLD/metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of children with liver biopsy‐proven MASLD at Children's Hospital Los Angeles between September 2017 and January 2023, investigating and comparing the predictive accuracy of MRE and TE in the detection of high‐grade fibrosis on liver biopsy.

Results

Seventy‐seven patients were reviewed, all of whom had undergone liver biopsy, MRE and TE for evaluation of MASLD. Fibrosis was identified in 90% of liver biopsies. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROC) of MRE and TE for detection of high‐grade fibrosis were 0.817 and 0.750, respectively, and not significantly different (p = 0.4785).

Conclusion

We demonstrate that MRE and TE did not accurately predict high‐grade fibrosis on liver biopsy. Between the two noninvasive imaging modalities, the correlation of identifying high‐grade fibrosis was not statistically different; however, the AUROC for MRE was slightly superior to that of TE. Studies with larger cohorts will be required to validate these findings.
Femoral anteversion angle is more advantageous than TT‐TG distance in evaluating patellar dislocation: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Jiahui , Ma Xinlong , Ma Jianxiong , Zhang Shixiong , Wang Ying , Bai Haohao , Lu Bin , Wu Yanfei , Dai Jing
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to report the parameter characteristics of the femoral anteversion angle (FAA) and tibial tubercle–trochlear groove (TT‐TG) distance in patients with patellar instability compared to healthy individuals and to evaluate their reliability in predicting patellar dislocation, providing potential indications for osteotomy.

Methods

A retrospective collection of consecutive patients with patellar instability constituted the study group, while individuals without patellofemoral disorder served as the control group. Measurement of the FAA and TT‐TG distance were conducted by lower extremity computed tomography scans and knees with true patellar dislocation were recorded. The diagnostic capability of the FAA and TT‐TG distance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves and area under the curve (AUC), determining the pathological values by sensitivity and specificity.

Results

The FAA (21.6 ± 9.0°) and TT‐TG distance (20.1 ± 4.8 mm) in the study group were significantly greater than the control group (10.6 ± 7.9° and 15.6 ± 4.6 mm, respectively) (p < 0.001). The AUCs for patellar dislocation were 0.869 for FAA and 0.712 for TT‐TG distance, with pathological cut‐off values of 18.2° and 18.2 mm, respectively. The odds ratios for FAA and TT‐TG distance were 1.185 and 1.125, respectively (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with patellar instability exhibited significantly greater FAA and TT‐TG distance compared to healthy individuals. The FAA demonstrated superior predictive capability for patellar dislocation compared to the TT‐TG distance. The FAA (>18.2°) measured by surgical transepicondylar axis and TT‐TG distance (>18.2 mm) were the potential pathological thresholds. Additionally, an increase of 1° in FAA and 1 mm in TT‐TG distance was associated with a 18.5% and 12.5% increased risk of patellar dislocation, respectively. Surgeons should be aware of the risk of patellar dislocation associated with rotational malalignment.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
High‐frequency sampling captures variability in phytoplankton population‐specific periodicity, growth, and productivity
Authors: Hynes Annette M. , Winter Jordan , Berthiaume Chris T. , Shimabukuro Eric , Cain Kelsy , White Angelicque , Armbrust E. Virginia , Ribalet François
Published: September 2024

The Hawaii Ocean Time‐series (HOT) at Station ALOHA (22.75°N, 158°W) in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre (NPSG) serves as a critical vantage point for observing plankton biomass production and its ecological implications. However, the HOT program's near‐monthly sampling frequency does not capture shorter time scale variability in phytoplankton populations. To address this gap, we deployed the SeaFlow flow cytometer for continuous monitoring during HOT cruises from 2014 to 2021. This approach allowed us to examine variations in the surface abundance and cell carbon content of specific phytoplankton groups: the cyanobacteria Prochlorococcus, Synechococcus, and Crocosphaera as well as a range of small eukaryotic phytoplankton ( 5 μm). Our data showed that daily to monthly variability in Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus abundance matches seasonal and interannual variability, while small eukaryotic phytoplankton and Crocosphaera showed the highest seasonal and interannual fluctuations. The study also found that eukaryotic phytoplankton and Crocosphaera had higher median cellular growth rates (0.076 and , respectively) compared to Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus (0.037 and , respectively). These variances in abundance and growth rates indicate that shifts in the community structure significantly impact primary productivity in the NPSG. Our results underscore the importance of daily to monthly phytoplankton dynamics in ecosystem function and carbon cycling.
Biogeochemical cycling of trace elements and nutrients in ferruginous waters: Constraints from a deep oligotrophic ancient lake
Authors: Janssen David J. , Damanik Adrianus , Tournier Nicolas , Tolu Julie , Winkel Lenny , Cahyarini Sri Yudawati , Vogel Hendrik
Published: September 2024

Iron‐rich, ferruginous waters were the dominant geochemical regime for most of Earth's history. Modern ferruginous waters are found in stratified, sulfur‐poor lakes, and serve as crucial analogs for biogeochemical cycling throughout Earth's past. Here we present the first depth‐resolved data of physical structure, nutrients and trace elements from Lake Poso (Indonesia), a deep oligotrophic ancient lake. Lake Poso is ferruginous, with anoxia below ~ 90 m depth, placing it among the world's largest ferruginous lakes. Physical stratification is weaker than other tropical anoxic lakes, indicating sensitivity for paleoclimate reconstructions. Trace elements and nutrients are predominantly shaped by the oxic–anoxic transition. Manganese– and Fe oxyhydroxide–driven biogeochemical cycling occurs at distinct depth horizons, with Co and Ni controlled by Mn and showing shallow release in anoxic waters, while V, Cr, P, and As are controlled by Fe, with release in surface sediments and diffusive transport. Chromium is nonquantitatively removed in anoxic waters, in contrast to widespread assumptions in Cr‐based paleoreconstructions. Oxycline U and Se removal corresponds to a local N minimum, suggesting biological reduction and/or uptake. These first ferruginous water Se data also show removal in sediments, indicating sediment signals reflect multiple removal processes and informing Se‐based paleoreconstructions, while the absence of sediment U removal contrasts other anoxic basins. A comparison with other ferruginous lakes demonstrates how local influences drive deviations from expectations in other systems, and highlight common, generalizable ferruginous basin features. Therefore, these data will guide research in ferruginous settings across space and time, and improve paleoreconstructions from ferruginous sediment records.
Polyconvex inelastic constitutive artificial neural networks
Authors: Holthusen Hagen , Lamm Lukas , Brepols Tim , Reese Stefanie , Kuhl Ellen
Published: September 2024

The characterization of the material behavior of inelastic materials requires a high degree of expert knowledge to identify and constitutively describe the material response. In addition, specific models are usually pre‐selected in the course of characterization and only the best parameters for these specific models are determined, but therefore not necessarily the best models. Unfortunately, a more general description of these pre‐selected models results in an increased effort during characterization, which is barely practicable by hand. This is where machine learning algorithms may help us. To get the best of both worlds, powerful machine learning and sound thermodynamic considerations, inelastic Constitutive Artificial Neural Networks (iCANNs) discover generic formulations of the Helmholtz free energy and pseudo potential. Constitutive relations guide us towards thermodynamically consistent descriptions of stresses and inelastic strains; a concept that is applicable to a wide range of inelastic phenomena from viscoelasticity, elastoplasticity, phase transformations to growth and remodeling of living tissues. Here, we equip the original iCANN framework to guarantee polyconvexity a priori, which ensures at least one minimizing deformation. We investigate the ability of our iCANN to identify the material behavior of a viscoelastic polymer at different stretch levels and strain rates. We made our source code, data, and example accessible to the public at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11084354.
Exposure to Valsartan Products Containing Nitrosamine Impurities in the United States, Canada, and Denmark
Authors: Eworuke Efe , Shinde Mayura U. , Hou Laura , Paterson J. Michael , Jensen Peter Bjødstrup , Maro Judith C. , Rai Ashish , Pottegård Anton , Scarnecchia Daniel , Liang Yuanling , Johnson Deborah , Platt Robert W. , Lee Hana , Bradley Marie C.
Published: September 2024

Background

Following the mass recall of valsartan products with nitrosamine impurities in July 2018, the number of patients exposed to these products, the duration of exposure, and the potential for cancer remains unknown. Therefore, we assessed the extent and duration of use of valsartan products with a nitrosamine impurity in the United States, Canada, and Denmark.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using administrative healthcare data from the US FDA Sentinel System, four Canadian provinces that contribute to the Canadian Network for Observational Drug Effect Studies (CNODES), and the Danish National Prescription Registry. Patients, 18 years and older between May 2012 and December 2020 with a valsartan dispensing were identified in each database. Patients were followed from the date of valsartan dispensing until discontinuation. We defined four valsartan exposure categories based on nitrosamine impurity status; recalled generic products with confirmed NDMA/NDEA levels (recalled‐tested); recalled generic products that were not tested (recalled); non‐recalled generic and non‐recalled branded products. In Denmark, the recalled‐tested category was not included due to absence of testing data. The proportion and duration of use of valsartan episodes stratified by nitrosamine‐impurity status was calculated.

Results

We identified 3.3 and 2.8 million (United States) and 51.3 and 229 thousand (Canada) recalled‐tested and recalled valsartan exposures. In Denmark, where valsartan exposure was generally low, there were 10 747 recalled exposures. Immediately after the recall notices were issued, there was increased rates of switching to a non‐valsartan ARB. The mean duration of use of the recalled‐tested products was 167 (±223.1) and 146 (±255.8) days in the United States and Canada respectively. For the recalled products, mean cumulative duration of use was 178 (±249.6), 269 (±397.3) and 166 (±251.0) days in the United States, Canada, and Denmark, respectively.

Conclusion

In this cohort study, despite widespread use of recalled generic valsartan between 2012 and 2018, the duration of use was relatively short and probably did not pose an elevated risk of nitrosamine‐induced cancer. However, since products with nitrosamine impurity could have been on the market over a 6‐year period, patients exposed to these products for longer durations could have a potentially different risk of cancer.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis on effect of different exercise training on grip strength and upper extremity muscle strength in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Boora Mamta , Malik Manoj , Kaur Jaspreet
Published: September 2024

Background

Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are prone to musculoskeletal complications, particularly in the upper extremities (UE), which can significantly impair their grip strength and UE muscle strength. This review will provide valuable insights for developing optimized exercise interventions aimed at enhancing upper limb functionality and improving patient outcomes.

Aim

To determine the effect of different exercise training on grip strength & UE muscle strength in patients suffering from T2DM.

Methodology

A comprehensive search from electronic databases was performed based on the selection criteria and 13 randomized controlled trials (RCT's) were included in the study. Mean changes in grip strength and UE muscle strength were the primary outcome measures. Included studies ranked high on the PEDro rating scale and eta‐analysis was performed by Rev Man 5.4 software.

Results

Meta‐analysis results indicated that there was a statistically significant improvement in UE muscle strength of experimental group when compared to control group (mean differences [MD] = 2.91, 95% confidence interval = 0.12, 5.71; p = 0.04) with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 49%, p < 0.07). Grip strength improved significantly in the experimental group when compared to the control group with (MD = 2.93, 95% CL = −0.00, 5.86; p = 0.05) and moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 66%, p < 0.08).

Conclusion

This review indicated a positive role of supervised resistance & aerobic exercises on UE muscle strength in patients with T2DM. Due to lack of RCT's, grip strength needs to be explored by further investigations in these patients.