bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing lutein stability and bioaccessibility with high internal phase emulsions stabilized by octenylsuccinylated starch
Authors: Zhang Yanqi , Li Songnan , Feng Jiannan , Binkley Lauren , Tan Libo , Kong Lingyan
Published: September 2024

Lutein possesses antioxidant properties and is a main component of the macular pigment, vital for infant eye and brain development. However, its use is constrained by its poor aqueous solubility and low stability. High internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) are valued in food development for encapsulating and protecting hydrophobic nutraceuticals. The objective of this study is to improve lutein's stability and bioaccessibility using HIPEs stabilized by biopolymer octenylsuccinylated starch (OSS). Three types of commercial OSS, including CAPSUL TA (CTA), HI‐CAP 100 (HC), and Purity Gum 2000, were tested for their emulsification properties in forming lutein HIPEs. Lutein HIPEs stabilized by 15%–25% CTA and 15%–30% HC had no phase separation and were selected for subsequent testing. After 21 days of storage at room temperature, lutein HIPEs showed higher lutein retention compared to free lutein. Lutein HIPEs stabilized with higher emulsifier concentrations (25% CTA and 30% HC) exhibited greater droplet diameter stability than those with lower concentrations. Additionally, lutein HIPEs significantly enhanced lutein retention under UV exposure and thermal stress. The in vitro bioaccessibility of lutein was highest in the HIPE stabilized by 20% CTA, reaching 54.36%. In conclusion, lutein HIPEs stabilized by 20% CTA demonstrated superior lutein stability and bioaccessibility, showing significant potential as an effective lutein delivery system.
Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic bioactive compounds from edible traditional Chinese medicines and their action of mechanisms explored by multitarget affinity ultrafiltration with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Hua Xiaowen , Xu Mengjia , Yang Ming , Zhang Yingying , Ma Jianke , Cheng Li , Chu Chu , Wu Zimiao , Guo Mingquan
Published: September 2024

Edible traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have a long‐standing history in tackling obesity, diabetes, and metabolic diseases, which, in turn, significantly promotes the exploration of functional food products derived from edible TCMs with lower toxicity and reduced side effects. However, most of bioactive components from TCMs and their mechanisms in regulating blood glucose and lipids remain elusive, which poses a challenge for the development of safer and more effective TCM products. In this context, the development of high‐throughput screening methods has become even more important for the identification of active components and the in‐depth evaluation of hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, this work provides an overview of edible TCMs for managing glucose and lipid metabolism disorders and summarizes the most recent progresses in identifying hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic bioactive compounds in edible TCMs through various screening methods. One significant approach involves the utilization of multitarget‐based ultrafiltration liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. This technique enables the concurrent screening and identification of potential pharmacodynamically active components in TCMs, as well as the investigation of their mechanisms of action. The bioactive compounds identified may serve as crucial active agents in reducing blood glucose and lipids, exhibiting promising potential for incorporation into functional foods or natural health products.
Electric feels: The role of visual methods in energy ‘futuring’
Authors: Bourne Joe , Collver Jordan , Hart Mary Flora , Michalec Ola , Nasr Aude , Ormian Lizzie
Published: September 2024

‘How would you feel about computers telling you how to save energy?’—was just one of many questions we asked our participants engaging with four artworks commissioned for the 'Electric Feels' project. In this paper, we tell our story of this unique art‐research collaboration, share our illustrations and reflect on the power of visual methods to galvanise a new type of public conversation related to emotions, energy and digital innovation. By bringing together the literature from design research, STS and human geography, we intend to lay a path towards further interdisciplinary conversations. This commentary paper makes a case for collective energy ‘futuring’—embracing the role of affect, speculation and imagination, while moving away from the deficit model of public engagement in science.
CYLD Alterations Are Associated With Metastasis and Poor Prognosis in Human Papilloma Virus‐Positive Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Cui Zhibin , Kang Hyunseok , Li Hua , Lee Eliot D. , Lee Yoon Se , Peterson Christopher N. , Long Steven R. , Grandis Jennifer R. , Johnson Daniel E.
Published: September 2024

Background

Human papilloma virus (HPV)‐associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an emerging epidemic and a subset of HPV‐positive patients experience aggressive disease with metastases. The CYLD gene is frequently altered in HPV‐positive HNSCC, but the role of these alterations in disease progression is poorly understood.

Methods

We identified 11 HPV‐positive HNSCC patients with CYLD alterations and assessed their clinical course. We also characterized a unique, HPV‐positive, metastatic, HNSCC patient‐derived xenograft (PDX).

Results

All 11 patients developed metastasis with reduced overall survival when compared with metastatic HPV‐positive patients with wild‐type CYLD. The metastatic PDX harbored a CYLD mutation (S371*) and exhibited reduced expression of connexin 43, a potentially antimetastatic protein. We also investigated the functional impact of the S371* mutation, as well as 2 CYLD mutations from our 11‐patient cohort.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that alterations in CYLD in HPV‐positive HNSCC are associated with metastasis and poor prognosis.
A scoping review of cultural issues concerning institutional quarantine and isolation during major multi‐country outbreaks in Africa: 2000–2023
Authors: Oduwole Ebunoluwa , Amzat Jimoh , Aluko‐Arowolo Olusola , Afolabi Rotimi , Adedeji Isaac Akinkunmi , Lawal Saheed Akinmayowa , Temisan Ige Angela , Oludiran Ayoyinka , Aminu Kafayat , Salami Afeez Abolarinwa , Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Infectious disease outbreaks pose significant challenges in Africa due to its ecology, socioeconomic conditions, and weak health systems. Implementing institutional quarantine and isolation (Q&I) measures is crucial for managing major outbreaks. However, the cultural context often determines the success of these measures. This scoping review aims to examine existing evidence on the cultural aspects of institutional Q&I in Africa over the past two decades, focusing on the COVID‐19 pandemic and other major multi‐country disease outbreaks.

Methods

This scoping review's protocol was registered with the Open Science Framework registry. Nine research databases were systematically searched to retrieve all relevant literature, followed by deduplication and a two‐stage screening process using the Rayyan web application. The inclusion of any literature into this review was based on a set of eligibility criteria. Also, manual searching of the reference lists of included literature was done to retrieve any other eligible literature. From the included literature, data were charted, collected, and summarized.

Findings

Out of the 787 articles retrieved from the database searches, this review found only one to be eligible for inclusion. Also, no other eligible article was obtained after manual searching of the reference list for this article. The reviewed article presented empirical findings on the impact of COVID‐19 Q&I protocols on traditional burial rites in Ghana. Many Ghanaian families were against their country's protocol because they felt it was insensitive to their traditional values and burial practices. Also, the way the protocol was implemented made some Ghanaian families feel that foreign burial practices were imposed on them, which bred feelings of cultural exclusion and neglect (by the government) among Ghanaians.

Conclusion

Research evidence on the cultural implications of Q&I in Africa is very scanty. More research is needed on this topic of public health interest.
Maximal heat transfer density from cross‐flow heat exchanger with tapered fins using constructal design method
Authors: Mustafa Ahmed Waheed
Published: September 2024

Tapered fins are widely used in heat sinks cooled by forced convection. In this study, maximal forced convective heat transfer from a set of tapered fins in cross‐flow is investigated based on the constructal design method. The tapering of the fins is done for a three‐fin base‐to‐tip ratio (taper ratio). The first taper ratio is TR = 0.5 (fin base < fin tip), the second taper ratio is TR = 1 (fin base = fin tip, straight fin), and the third taper ratio is TR = 2 (fin base > fin tip). In all these cases, the fin length is constant. The fins are heated at constant surface temperature and they are cooled by cross‐flow. A constant pressure difference pushes the cross‐flow toward the fins. The Bejan number ranges from 105 to 107. The forced convective heat transfer density is maximized from the fins for the three taper ratios, and a comparison between them is carried out. The maximization is conducted by numerical and scale analysis. In the numerical analysis, the pressure‐driven flow equations (continuity, momentum, and energy) are solved by means of the finite volume method. In the scale analysis, two extremes are considered. The first extreme is for TR < 1, and the second extreme is for TR > 1. These two extremes are intersected to find the maximal forced convective heat transfer density. The results obtained from numerical and scale analysis confirmed that the maximal forced convective heat transfer density occurs for straight fins (TR = 1) in the whole range of the Bejan number. The heat transfer density from straight fins (TR = 1) is higher than that of tapered fins (TR = 2) by 45.2%, and it is higher than that of tapered fins (TR = 0.5) by 52.7% at Be = 107.
“When I hold my daughter, she quiets, no need [for]any verbal conversation”: A qualitative understanding of responsive caregiving in rural, Sindh Pakistan
Authors: Hentschel Elizabeth , Siyal Saima , Warren Whitney , Lanjar Sadaf , McCoy Dana C. , Tiemeier Henning , Yousafzai Aisha K.
Published: September 2024

Responsive caregiving is associated with secure attachment and positive child developmental outcomes. However, there is some debate on whether responsive caregiving is a universal construct. Few studies have researched responsive caregiving in diverse cultural settings, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries. In this study, we explore if and how responsive caregiving is conceptualized among mothers of children under 3‐years‐old in rural, Sindh Pakistan. A phenomenological qualitative study was implemented in Naushahro Feroze through in‐depth interviews with twenty mothers. Mothers were asked about their aspirations for their children and how they would respond in a variety of different scenarios. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis with an inductive‐deductive coding scheme. There was substantial variation in mothers’ described responsive behaviors and beliefs. Almost all mothers described using some form of responsive parenting. Responding to children's demands while the mother was preoccupied, using verbal responses to console children, and if mothers believed that children should be praised, lacked consensus. Most mothers described using breastfeeding for consolation and highlighted the importance of immediately consoling their crying child. The results suggest that there is a need for a more nuanced approach to understand caregiver behaviors across contexts.
Investigation of oral toxicity of WS2 nanosheets to mouse intestine: Pathological injury, trace element balance, lipid profile changes, and autophagy
Authors: Zha Xianghao , Luo Sihuan , Wei Lianghuan , Li Feixing , Li Youwen , Cao Yi
Published: September 2024

The success of graphene oxides has gained extensive research interests in developing novel 2D nanomaterials (NMs). WS2 nanosheets (NSs) are novel transition metal‐based 2D NMs, but their toxicity is unclear. In this study, we investigated the oral toxicity of WS2 NSs to mouse intestines. Male mice were administrated with vehicles, 1, 10, or 100 mg/kg NSs via intragastric route, once a day, for 5 days. The results indicate that the NSs did not induce pathological or ultrastructural changes in intestines. There were minimal changes of trace elements that the exposure did not induce W accumulation, and only Co levels were dose‐dependently increased. Lipid droplets were observed in all groups of mice, but lipidomics data indicate that WS2 NSs only significantly decreased four lipid species, all belonging to phosphatidylcholine (PC). The levels of proteins regulating autophagic lipolysis, namely, LC3, lysosomal associated membrane protein 2 (LAMP2) and perilipin 2 (PLIN2), were increased, but it was only statistically significantly different for LC3. The results of this study suggest that repeated intragastric exposure to WS2 NSs only induced minimal influences on pathological injury, trace element balance, autophagy, and lipid profiles in mouse intestines, indicating relatively high biocompatibility of WS2 NSs to mouse intestine via oral route.
Time Course of Reversal of Fentanyl‐Induced Respiratory Depression in Healthy Subjects by Intramuscular Nalmefene and Intramuscular and Intranasal Naloxone
Authors: Cipriano Alessandra , Apseloff Glen , Kapil Ram P. , He Ellie , Shet Manjunath , Harris Stephen C.
Published: September 2024

The increase in opioid overdose deaths, particularly involving potent, long‐acting synthetic opioids, has led to calls for stronger, longer‐acting opioid‐overdose‐reversal agents. Using an opioid‐induced respiratory depression model, we investigated the onset and time course of action of naloxone and a long‐acting opioid antagonist, nalmefene, in reversing the effects of an ongoing intravenous fentanyl infusion over a period of up to 100 min. Healthy, moderately experienced opioid users received intramuscular (IM) nalmefene 1 mg, IM naloxone 2 mg, or intranasal (IN) naloxone 4 mg after fentanyl‐induced respiratory depression was established based on reduction in respiratory minute volume (MV). Each participant received each opioid antagonist twice per a randomized crossover schedule. Reversal of respiratory depression, pharmacokinetics, and safety were investigated. Participants showed rapid increases in plasma opioid antagonist concentrations, and meaningful reversal of depressed MV tended to occur earlier with IM nalmefene and IM naloxone than with IN naloxone. Compared to naloxone, nalmefene provided extended exposure, and mean MV was maintained at a higher level. All participants experienced treatment‐related adverse events, but none were severe, serious, or led to study drug discontinuation. This study provides evidence that IM nalmefene 1 mg achieves reversal of fentanyl‐induced respiratory depression similar to or better than that achieved with standard‐of‐care naloxone treatments. No new safety concerns were raised for IM nalmefene at the tested dose. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of IM nalmefene position it as an important treatment option in opioid overdose reversal, particularly given the increasing prevalence of overdoses involving potent, long‐acting synthetic opioids.
Pharmacokinetics of Ganaplacide and Lumefantrine in Adults, Adolescents, and Children with Plasmodium falciparum Malaria Treated with Ganaplacide Plus Lumefantrine Solid Dispersion Formulation: Analysis of Data from a Multinational Phase 2 Study
Authors: Sangana Ramachandra , Ogutu Bernhards , Yeka Adoke , Kusemererwa Sylvia , Tinto Halidou , Toure Andre Offianan , Kibuuka Afizi , Lingani Moussa , Lourenço Carlos , Mombo‐Ngoma Ghyslain , Nduba Videlis , Landry N'Guessan Tiacoh , Nassa Guétawendé Job Wilfried , Nyantaro Mary , Tina Lucas Otieno , Anvikar Anup , Sinha Abhinav , Kaguthi Grace , Fofana Bakary , Grobusch Martin Peter , Gaaloul Myriam El , Marrast Anne Claire , Pathan Rashidkhan , Chikoto Havana , Csermak Katalin , Risterucci Celine , Su Guoqin , Winnips Cornelis , Zhang Jie , Zack Julia
Published: September 2024

The novel antimalarial ganaplacide combined with lumefantrine solid dispersion formulation (LUM‐SDF) was effective and well tolerated in the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria in adults, adolescents, and children in a multinational, prospective, randomized, active‐controlled Phase II study conducted between August 2017 and June 2021 (EudraCT 2020‐003284‐25, Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03167242). Pharmacokinetic data from that study are reported here.

The trial comprised three parts: a run‐in part in 12 adult/adolescent patients treated with a single dose of ganaplacide 200 mg plus LUM‐SDF 960 mg assessed potential pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions between ganaplacide and lumefantrine; in Part A, adult/adolescent patients received one of the six ganaplacide‐LUM‐SDF regimens or artemether‐lumefantrine; and in Part B, three dose regimens identified in Part A, and artemether‐lumefantrine, were assessed in children aged 2 to <12 years, with body weight ≥10 kg. A rich blood sampling schedule was used for all 12 patients in the PK run‐in part and a subset of patients (N = 32) in Part A, with sparse sampling for remaining patients in Parts A (N = 275) and B (N = 159). Drug concentrations were determined by a validated protein precipitation and reverse phase liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry detection method. Parameters including AUCinf, AUClast, AUC0‐t, Cmax, and tmax were reported where possible, using non‐compartmental analysis.

In the PK run‐in part, there was no notable increase in ganaplacide or lumefantrine exposure when co‐administered. In Parts A and B, ganaplacide exposures increased with dose, but lumefantrine exposure was numerically under dose‐proportional. Lumefantrine exposure was higher with ganaplacide‐LUM‐SDF than with artemether‐lumefantrine, although high variability was observed. Ganaplacide and lumefantrine exposures (Cmax and AUC0‐24 h) were comparable across age and body weight groups. Drug exposures needed for efficacy were achieved using the dose regimen 400 mg ganaplacide plus lumefantrine 960 mg once daily for 3 days under fasted conditions.
Pharmacodynamic Exposure–Response Analysis of Fracture Count Data Following Treatment with Burosumab in Patients with XLH
Authors: Mehta Krina , Storopoli Jose , Ramwani Nikita , Quattrocchi Emilia , Gobburu Joga , Weber Thomas , Hruska Matthew W. , Marsteller Douglas
Published: September 2024

X‐linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare genetic disorder caused by excessive fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), leading to low serum phosphate levels resulting in increased risk of fractures and pseudofractures. Burosumab is indicated for the treatment of XLH. In this work, we aimed to understand the quantitative relationship between burosumab‐treatment‐induced improvements in serum phosphate and reduction in fracture and pseudofracture counts in adults with XLH. Burosumab pharmacokinetic pharmacodynamic data from nine clinical studies were first utilized to update a prior population pharmacokinetic pharmacodynamic (PPKPD) model. The updated PPKPD model predictions for serum phosphate exposures along with other factors (i.e., time and treatment) were utilized to evaluate the relationship on fracture counts using Poisson model. The updated PPKPD model suggested that burosumab concentrations required for 50% of maximal effect decreased with increasing baseline serum phosphate levels. A Poisson model with time from baseline, average serum phosphate, and burosumab treatment described the time‐varying fracture and pseudofracture count data appropriately. The model suggested a baseline rate of fracture and pseudofracture of 1.87 counts. The model predicted that fracture counts decrease by 1% each week, and by 23% with each unit increase (1.0 mg/dL) in average serum phosphate from lower limit of normal (2.5 mg/dL). An additional 1% decrease in fracture count each week was attributed to burosumab treatment that could not be explained by improvements in serum phosphate. Overall, the model quantified the relationship between burosumab‐treatment‐induced serum phosphate improvements and reduction in fracture and pseudofracture counts in patients with XLH over time.
Dipeptidyl peptidase 4: A predictor of ferroptosis in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Zhu Fuyun , Zou Dezeng , Shi Ping , Tang Lianhua , Wu Dan , Hu Xiaoxue , Yin Fei , Liu Jianhui
Published: September 2024

Background

With its rapidly increasing incidence and prevalence, ulcerative colitis (UC) has become a major global health challenge. Recent evidence suggests that ferroptosis plays a significant role in the development of UC. However, the relationship between ferroptosis and the progression of UC needs to be extensively studied.

Methods

The differentially expressed genes in UC patients were screened from the GEO database. The ferroptosis‐related genes were obtained from FErrDB and GeneCards. The UC subtypes were identified with the R package “CancerSubtype” and evaluated with consensus clustering (CC) to identify gene expression patterns in patients with UC. The key genes were detected with qRT‐PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry in vitro and in vivo models. Ferroptosis was identified with western blotting on ferrotic‐associated proteins and staining on Fe2+ with commercial FerroOrange kits.

Results

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), also known as CD26, is a potential biomarker for ferroptosis in UC patients. Transcriptome sequencing data showed a positive correlation between decreased DPP4 expression and proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐β, as well as immune cell infiltration in the colon tissues of UC patients. Furthermore, DPP4 was strongly associated with ferroptosis biomarkers, particularly in Subtype 2 of UC. Interestingly, our study also found that DPP4 expression was significantly reduced in RSL3‐treated ferroptotic intestinal epithelial cells, more so than in LPS‐treated cell models. Inhibition of DPP4 had a significant impact on the expression of ferroptotic biomarkers. Additionally, DPP4 expression was decreased in the colon tissues of DSS‐treated mice, and the ferroptosis inhibitor Ferritin‐1 effectively counteracted the effects of DSS on immune cell infiltration, colon length, and DPP4 expression.

Conclusions

DPP4 can serve as a biomarker for ferroptosis in the diagnosis and management of UC.
Foliar application of biostimulants improves nutritional and bioactive quality of walnuts
Authors: Pascoalino Liege Aguiar , Pires Tânia CSP , Pinela José , Rodrigues Manuel Ângelo , Ferreira Isabel CFR , Barros Lillian , Barreira João CM , Reis Filipa S
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Owing to their health benefits, walnuts are attracting interest as a good option for nutritious meals, thereby promoting their production. Furthermore, the adoption of ecologically and environmentally friendly agriculture strengthens biostimulant use as a sustainable complement to traditional fertilizers. This study evaluated the effects of different foliar‐applied biostimulants in walnut tree orchards, in northeastern Portugal, on walnuts' chemical composition and bioactivity.

RESULTS

Walnut samples were rich in fat (particularly the polyunsaturated linoleic acid), dietary fiber and protein. Sucrose was the most prevalent soluble sugar, followed by glucose and fructose. Studied samples also showed an antioxidant activity comparable (or superior) to that of Trolox. Some plant biostimulants (e.g. Sprint Plus®) had a positive impact on the nutritional composition of walnuts, more specifically by boosting tocopherol levels, besides improving the bioactivity of walnut extracts against specific bacteria.

CONCLUSION

Overall, this research demonstrated that important quality traits of walnuts can be improved using sustainable agricultural bioproducts and practices. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Douglas Pouch Fluid Improves the Accuracy of Transvaginal Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Uterosacral Ligaments Deep Infiltration Endometriosis
Authors: Chen Qiuxiang , Jia Luyao , Wang Shiya , Chen Menghua , Zhang Chan , Fang Yue , Deng Meifang , Jin Chunchun
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To compare the accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) with laparoscopy in detecting and characterizing uterosacral ligament (USL) nodules of deep infiltrative endometriosis (DIE) between patients with and without pouch of Douglas (POD) fluid.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted between June 2021 and July 2023. We included patients from the Second People's Hospital of Shenzhen with two TVUS tests: no POD fluid on the first TVUS test and POD fluid on the second TVUS test. POD fluid was obtained in two ways: naturally occurring fluid during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and SonoPODography. Laparoscopic results are the gold standard. To compare the diagnostic performance of TVUS in the diagnosis of DIE on USLs with and without POD fluid.

Results

We included 42 patients with a mean age of 36.4 ± 5.4 years. The maximum length diameter for DIE nodules on USLs with and without POD fluid was 13.3 ± 3.3 mm and 10.2 ± 2.5 mm (P < .001), respectively, while the depth of infiltration was 8.1 ± 2.4 mm and 6.1 ± 1.4 mm (P < .001), respectively. When compared to laparoscopic findings, TVUS findings with and without POD fluid resulted in a sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, negative predictive value area under the curve, and Cohen kappa of 92.3%, 93.8%, 92.9%, 96.0%, 88.2%, 0.930, and 0.850 and 61.5%, 93.8%, 73.8%, 94.1%, 50.0%, 0.766, and 0.499, respectively. Laparoscopy showed USL involvement in up to 59.5% of patients. With or without fluid, the most common ultrasound features of DIE lesions were USL thickening, irregular morphology, clear boundaries, low echo, and no blood flow signal.

Conclusions

For patients with clinical suspicion of DIE, TVUS with POD fluid has a higher accuracy for diagnosing USL DIE than TVUS without POD fluid.
Self‐healing Hydrophobic Antifouling Polymers with Fe3+‐Catechol Coordination Interaction
Authors: Kong Annan , Si Lulu , Chen Dongxiang , Song Yan , Li Guo Liang
Published: September 2024

Hydrophobic antifouling polymers capable of self‐healing performance are highly desirable for industrial applications. However, the construction of self‐healing, hydrophobic antifouling polymers is challenging considering their complex fouling environments, which are humid in aqueous environment. In this work, a self‐healing hydrophobic polymer containing Fe3+‐catechol coordination applicable to antifouling is synthesized. The hydrophobic fluoroalkyl segments in the polymers formed unique domains dispersed in a polydimethylsiloxane matrix. The as‐synthesized polymers can completely restore their tensile strength, and their self‐healing efficiency is above 90% in both artificial seawater and pure water because of the dynamic Fe3+‐catechol coordination interactions. The as‐synthesized polymer exhibited self‐healing and antifouling properties against common marine bacteria. The colony adhesion and self‐healing processes of the damaged coating in artificial seawater containing marine bacteria are characterized by laser confocal microscopy. This strategy may be useful for the development of future polymeric antifouling materials.
Validation of a 5‐Year Prognostic Model for Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Ribeiro Joana , Camacho Marta , Scott Kirsten M. , Greenland Julia C. , Evans Jonathan R. , Breen David P. , Wijeyekoon Ruwani S. , Barker Roger A. , Williams‐Gray Caroline H.
Published: September 2024

Background

A simple prognostic model was previously developed to predict the probability of recently‐diagnosed patients reaching negative outcomes (postural instability, dementia or death) in a 5‐year period.

Objectives

To validate this model in an independent cohort and establish utility at later time points.

Methods

Validation was performed using data collected in an incident cohort at baseline, 2 and 4 years. Predicted negative outcome probabilities were compared to actual 5‐year outcomes.

Results

The model, based on age, MDS‐UPDRS axial score and 60‐second animal fluency, predicted poor 5‐year outcome when applied at baseline, (area under the curve (AUC) 0.80), 2 years (AUC 0.82) and 4 years (AUC 0.71). Power calculations showed that selecting a subgroup with prognostic score >0.5 reduced the sample size required for a disease‐modifying trial.

Conclusions

This 5‐year prognostic model has good accuracy when employed up to 4 years from diagnosis and may help stratification for disease‐modifying trials.
Peer‐provided problem management plus (PM+) and case management for Arabic‐speaking and Farsi‐speaking refugees and asylum seekers in Greece
Authors: Papathanasiou Chrysovalantis , Kougioumtzi Aikaterini
Published: September 2024

An increasingly common response to the lack of specialist mental health services for refugees and asylum seekers in European host countries is peer‐supported services. This study examined the association between a peer‐provided psychosocial intervention and psychological symptom reduction among refugees and asylum seekers in Greece. The intervention consisted of Problem Management Plus (PM+) and peer case management sessions delivered by a team of Community Psychosocial Workers (trained refugees). The sample consisted of 173 participants, comprising Arabic and Farsi speakers, male and female participants, recognized refugees and asylum seekers. Anxiety, depression, and psychological distress were measured before and after the intervention using the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder‐7, and Psychological Outcome Profiles scales, respectively. Repeated measures analysis of variance was adopted to evaluate the difference in the degree of change across patient characteristics over the follow‐up period. The level of statistical significance was set at p < .05, and analyses were conducted using SPSS statistical software (version 26.0). Significant decreases were found in all postintervention scores, indicating significant decreases in anxiety and depression symptoms as well as in psychological distress following the peer‐provided psychosocial intervention, which included emotional support and social care. Large effect sizes were found at all scales. The findings support the notion that there is an association between the implemented intervention and symptom reduction in refugees. For future research, a randomized controlled trial is proposed as a study protocol.
On a Dirichlet problem related to anisotropic fluid flow in bidisperse porous media
Authors: Gasparovici Andrei
Published: September 2024

This paper is concerned with the study of a Dirichlet boundary value problem for a system of two coupled anisotropic Darcy–Forchheimer–Brinkman equations on a bounded Lipschitz domain in
. Using variational methods and fixed point techniques, we obtain a well‐posedness result in
‐based Sobolev spaces for sufficiently small data. As an application, we investigate numerically the lid‐driven flow problem in a square cavity saturated with a bidisperse porous medium and analyze the effect of various physical parameters on the fluid motion.
Mathematical analysis and optimal control of age‐structured social interaction model with law enforcement
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Dhama Soniya , Alqarni Faez A. , Abbas Syed , Aldwoah Khaled A.
Published: September 2024

Optimal use of available resources is one of the major issues in many situations. Apart from this, age is also an important factor in modeling social interaction in a society. In this article, we consider an age‐dependent social interaction model and study the stability and optimal control. Law enforcement is an important factor in controlling crime, and the deployment of police to enforce it is important. Now cost is a major issue, so optimal deployment is very important to study. Stability results are derived in terms of threshold parameters. Basic reproduction number is calculated for stability analysis. Using the adjoint system, the form of the law enforcement factor is obtained in terms of state space variables. We see that the cost functional increases with the increase in the population density of criminal population. Numerical results are also added to visually illustrate our theoretical results.
Partially extended oscillation and nonoscillation theorems for half‐linear Hill‐type differential equations with periodic damping
Authors: Ishibashi Kazuki
Published: September 2024

This study addressed the oscillation problems of half‐linear differential equations with periodic damping. The solution space of any linear equation is homogeneous and additive. Generally, by contrast, the solution space of half‐linear differential equations is homogeneous but not additive. Numerous oscillation and nonoscillation theorems have been devised for half‐linear differential equations featuring periodic functions as coefficients. However, in certain cases, such as applying Mathieu‐type differential equations to control engineering, which is a typical example of the Hill equation, some oscillation theorems cannot be applied. In this study, we established oscillation and nonoscillation theorems for half‐linear Hill‐type differential equations with periodic damping. To prove the results, we used the Riccati technique and the composite function method, which focuses on the composite function of the indefinite integral of the coefficients of the target equation and an appropriate multivalued continuously differentiable function. Furthermore, we discuss the special case of the oscillation constant of a damped half‐linear Mathieu equation.
Association between Higher Intake of Flavonols and Lignans and Better Mood: Evidence from Dietary and Biomarker Evaluation in Healthy Individuals
Authors: Ma Xuemei , Xu Yifan , Li Yong , Gibson Rachel , Williams Claire , Lawrence Andrew J. , Nosarti Chiara , Dazzan Paola , Rodriguez‐Mateos Ana
Published: September 2024

Scope

The aim of this study is to investigate associations between (poly)phenol consumption, circulating (poly)phenol metabolites, and mood states in healthy individuals.

Methods and results

The study included 333 healthy individuals. Mood state was assessed with the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule questionnaire. Dietary (poly)phenol intake was estimated  matching food consumption data collected using a Food Frequency Questionnaire(FFQ) with a comprehensive in‐house (poly)phenol database. A total of 102 (poly)phenol metabolites were quantified in fasting plasma and 24 h urine samples by Liquid Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry using a validated method. A higher intake of lignans, flavanones, and flavonols estimated from FFQs was associated with positive mood after adjusting for age and sex (β: 0.118 to 0.134). A total of 11 urinary (poly)phenol metabolites, including lignan and flavonol metabolites were associated with less negative mood (β: −0.387 to −0.205). No association was found between mood and plasma (poly)phenols.

Conclusion

  A higher consumption of lignans flavanones and flavonols is associated with a better mood, while certain urinary metabolites are associated with less negative mood. The lack of associations between fasting plasma (poly)phenols and mood may be due to their transient nature incirculation compared with 24 h urinary metabolites, which reflect longer‐term exposure.
The use of electrical stimulation to enhance recovery following peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Hardy Paige B. , Wang Bonnie Y. , Chan K. Ming , Webber Christine A. , Senger Jenna‐Lynn B.
Published: September 2024

Peripheral nerve injury is common and can have devastating consequences. In severe cases, functional recovery is often poor despite surgery. This is primarily due to the exceedingly slow rate of nerve regeneration at only 1–3 mm/day. The local environment in the distal nerve stump supportive of nerve regrowth deteriorates over time and the target end organs become atrophic. To overcome these challenges, investigations into treatments capable of accelerating nerve regrowth are of great clinical relevance and are an active area of research. One intervention that has shown great promise is perioperative electrical stimulation. Postoperative stimulation helps to expedite the Wallerian degeneration process and reduces delays caused by staggered regeneration at the site of nerve injury. By contrast, preoperative “conditioning” stimulation increases the rate of nerve regrowth along the nerve trunk. Over the past two decades, a rich body of literature has emerged that provides molecular insights into the mechanism by which electrical stimulation impacts nerve regeneration. The end result is upregulation of regeneration‐associated genes in the neuronal body and accelerated transport to the axon front for regrowth. The efficacy of brief electrical stimulation on patients with peripheral nerve injuries was demonstrated in a number of randomized controlled trials on compressive, transection and traction injuries. As approved equipment to deliver this treatment is becoming available, it may be feasible to deploy this novel treatment in a wide range of clinical settings.
A comparison of micromorphic gradient‐extensions for anisotropic damage
Authors: van der Velden Tim , Brepols Tim , Reese Stefanie , Holthusen Hagen
Published: September 2024

The modeling of inelastic phenomena with tensor‐valued internal variables requires a regularization to counteract mesh dependence. Here, we consider the regularization of anisotropic damage at finite strains and seek for an efficient formulation based on a reduced number of nonlocal degrees of freedom. We, thus, equip the brittle version of an anisotropic model with different gradient‐extensions in the micromorphic framework using a full and a reduced regularization of the damage tensor. The models are compared in the structural simulation of an asymmetrically notched specimen with a perforated shear band section. High agreement is observed between the full and the reduced regularization with two nonlocal degrees of freedom. Furthermore, we present a novel study of the evolution of the reduced micromorphic field variables.
A microstructural thermo‐elastoplastic analysis of the mushy zone during laser beam welding
Authors: Hartwig Philipp , Scheunemann Lisa , Schröder Jörg
Published: September 2024

As a modern method of contact free fusion, laser beam welding has gained importance in recent years. This is due to both the possibiliy of a high advance speed of the laser and low thermal distortion of the components compared to other welding processes, see Dal and Fabbro. These beneficial process properties follow from a focused laser, which thus results in a precise energy input. In addition, laser beam welding processes can be automated which makes the process attractive for a wide range of applications, cf. Dilthey. Nevertheless, various influences, like the temperature gradient, the chemical composition or process parameters, may have an effect on the occurrence of so‐called solidification cracks. Solidification cracks arise during solidification and occur in the area of the mushy zone, which is located behind the melt pool. The material behavior in the mushy zone is governed by a dendritic morphology. Due to this, liquid phase inclusions may occur in some parts of the mushy zone, see Hills et al. When these trapped areas solidify, no further liquid phase can follow and a negative pressure is created. The resulting stresses can then lead to solidification cracks. In further studies, the geometry of the dendritic morphology will be generated on the basis of previous phase field simulations. These describe the dendrite growth controlled by the chemical concentration. The resulting geometry will then be simulated using the possibilities of a thermo‐elastoplastic material model, which will enable temperature‐driven imitation of growth. This contribution addresses the evolving state of the dendritic microstructure in a simplified manner. Therefore, for the first study, a simplified morphology is used, that is, no secondary arms and an elliptical geometry of the dendrites is assumed. Thermal as well as elastoplastic effects are already taken into account, in order to represent the inherent stress and strain states in the microstructure. These may be related to critical states leading to failure in the future.
Expanding the clinicopathologic spectrum and genomic landscape of tumors with SMARCA2/4::CREM fusions
Authors: Cyrta Joanna , Dermawan Josephine K , Tauziède‐Espariat Arnault , Liu Ting , Rosenblum Marc , Shroff Seema , Katabi Nora , Cardoen Liesbeth , Guillemot Delphine , Masliah‐Planchon Julien , Hoare Owen , Delattre Olivier , Bale Tejus , Bourdeaut Franck , Antonescu Cristina R
Published: September 2024

CREB gene family (ATF1, CREB1, CREM) fusions with either EWSR1 or FUS gene partners drive the pathogenesis of a wide range of neoplasms, including various soft tissue tumors, intracranial myxoid mesenchymal tumors (IMMTs), hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma (HCCC), and rare mesotheliomas. Recently, a SMARCA2::CREM fusion was reported in one case each of IMMT and HCCC. In this study, we expand the clinicopathologic and molecular spectrum of these neoplasms by describing three additional cases with SMARCA2::CREM and one with a novel SMARCA4::CREM fusion, highlighting the recurrent potential of additional CREB gene fusion partners beyond FET family members. To evaluate if these fusions define a new pathologic entity, we performed a comprehensive genomic and methylation analysis and compared the results to other related tumors. Tumors occurred in children and young adults (median age 20 years) and spanned a broad anatomic distribution, including soft tissue, intracranial, head and neck, and prostatic urethra. Microscopically, the tumors shared an undifferentiated round to epithelioid cell phenotype and a hyalinized fibrous stroma. Immunohistochemically, a polyphenotypic profile was observed, with variable expression of SOX10, desmin, and/or epithelial markers. No targetable genomic alterations were found using panel‐based DNA sequencing. By DNA methylation and transcriptomic analyses, tumors grouped closely to FET::CREB entities, but not with SMARCA4/SMARCB1‐deficient tumors. High expression of CREM by immunohistochemistry was also documented in these tumors. Patients experienced local recurrence (n = 2), locoregional lymph node metastases (n = 2), and an isolated visceral metastasis (n = 1). Overall, our study suggests that SMARCA2/4::CREM fusions define a distinct group of neoplasms with round cell to epithelioid histology, a variable immunoprofile, and a definite risk of malignancy. Larger studies are needed to further explore the pathogenetic relationship with the FET::CREB family of tumors. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Complications and long‐term impact of early life pneumonia
Authors: Ayuk Adaeze C.
Published: September 2024

Pneumonia is an infection affecting the lower airway, where the air sacs are filled with mucus and pus; and typically presents with cough, fever, and fast breathing. Pneumonia is estimated to be the leading cause of mortality in children under five worldwide with 120 million episodes result in 1 million deaths globally. The Low‐Income and Middle‐Income Countries (LMICs) are more affected. In a study in southeast Nigeria, bronchopneumonia accounted for 41.9%, of the cases admitted in the tertiary hospitals and in another hospital based study among children, pneumonia had the highest respiratory admission rates at 34.0%. Pneumonia can be caused by various organisms: Bacterial (Streptococcus, staphylococcus etc), Viral (RSV) and recently COVID 19 pneumonia. RSV has been noted globally to be a major cause of childhood lower respiratory tract infection, with morbidity/mortality occurring in 99% of (LMICs). Some of the long term sequalae are discussed.
Inhaled corticosteroid delivery is markedly affected by breathing pattern and valved holding chamber model
Authors: Ojanperä Laura , Lehtimäki Lauri , Huhtala Heini , Csonka Péter
Published: September 2024

Background

There is a scarcity of high‐quality research on the efficient delivery of inhaled corticosteroids using valved holding chambers (VHCs) in children.

Methods

The delivered dose (DD) of fluticasone from a metered dose inhaler (pMDI) was tested using four VHCs: AeroChamber plus Flow‐Vu (AC), Babyhaler (BH), EasyChamber (EC), and Optichamber Diamond (OD). The in vitro setup included an anatomical child throat model, Next Generation Impactor, and a breathing simulator to generate tidal breathing of a four and a 6‐year‐old child, and adult type single inhalation.

Results

OD showed the lowest proportion of fluticasone trapped in the throat with all breathing patterns. AC showed similar fine particle dose (FPD) in the respirable range (1–5 µm) irrespective of the breathing pattern. For BH, the median FPD 1–5 µm was highest during adult breathing. OD and EC showed higher overall DD and higher doses in the 1–5 µm range with paediatric breathing profiles compared to adult inhalation. The median DD and FPD 1–5 µm were significantly lower with BH compared to any other VHCs during tidal breathing. Compared to EC, the FPD of the other VHCs were skewed towards <2 µm particles.

Conclusion

Fluticasone delivery is markedly affected by breathing pattern and VHC model. The observed differences in throat deposition and FPD delivered may have significant clinical implications for side effects and controlling airway inflammation. All VHCs intended for paediatric use should undergo testing using internationally recognised standardised methods incorporating clinically relevant paediatric breathing patterns.
Interaction of myricetin, ampelopsin (dihydromyricetin), and their sulfate metabolites with serum albumin, cytochrome P450 (CYP2C9, 2C19, and 3A4) enzymes, and organic anion‐transporting polypeptides (OATP1B1 and OATP2B1)
Authors: Dombi Ágnes , Kaci Hana , Valentová Kateřina , Bakos Éva , Özvegy‐Laczka Csilla , Poór Miklós
Published: September 2024

Myricetin (MYR) and ampelopsin (AMP, or dihydromyricetin) are flavonoid aglycones found in certain plants and dietary supplements. During the presystemic biotransformation of flavonoids, mainly sulfate and glucuronide derivatives are produced, which are the dominant metabolites in the circulation. In this study, we tested the interactions of MYR, myricetin‐3′‐O‐sulfate (M3′S), AMP, and ampelopsin‐4′‐O‐sulfate (A4′S) with human serum albumin (HSA), cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs), and organic anion‐transporting polypeptides (OATPs) using in vitro models, including the recently developed method for measuring flavonoid levels in living cells. M3′S and MYR bound to albumin with high affinity, and they showed moderate displacing effects versus the Site I marker warfarin. MYR, M3′S, AMP, and A4′S exerted no or only minor inhibitory effects on CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 enzymes. M3′S and MYR caused considerable inhibitory actions on OATP1B1 at low micromolar concentrations (IC50 = 1.7 and 6.4 μM, respectively), while even their nanomolar levels resulted in strong inhibitory effects on OATP2B1 (IC50 = 0.3 and 0.4 μM, respectively). In addition, M3′S proved to be a substrate of OATP1B1 and OATP2B1. These results suggest that MYR‐containing dietary supplements may affect the OATP‐mediated transport of certain drugs, and OATPs are involved in the tissue uptake of M3′S.