bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Previous pregnancies might mitigate cortical brain differences associated with surgical menopause
Authors: Fernández‐Pena Alberto , Navas‐Sánchez Francisco J. , de Blas Daniel Martín , Marcos‐Vidal Luis , Desco Manuel , Carmona Susanna
Published: December 2023

Surgical menopause causes a sharp drop in estrogen levels in middle‐aged women, thus preventing the gradual physiological adaptation that is characteristic of the perimenopause. Previous studies suggest that surgical menopause might increase the risk of dementia later in life. In addition, the transition to motherhood entails long‐lasting endocrine and neuronal adaptations. We compared differences in whole‐brain cortical volume between women who reached menopause by surgery and a group of women who reached spontaneous non‐surgical menopause and determined whether these cortical differences were influenced by previous childbearing. Using surface‐based neuroimaging techniques, we investigated cortical volume differences in 201 middle‐aged women (134 women who experienced non‐surgical menopause, 78 of whom were parous women; and 67 women who experienced surgical menopause, 39 of whom were parous women). We found significant atrophy in the frontal and temporal regions in women who experienced surgical menopause. Nulliparous women with surgical menopause showed significant lower cortical volume in the left temporal gyrus extending to the medial temporal lobe cortex, as well as in the precuneus bilaterally compared to parous women with surgical menopause; whereas our results revealed no significant differences between parous women with surgical menopause and both parous and nulliparous women who reached a non‐surgical menopause. Furthermore, in the surgical menopause group, we found a negative correlation between cortical volume and age at first pregnancy in the temporal lobe. Our study suggests that the long‐term brain remodeling of parity may mitigate the neural impact of the sudden drop in estrogen levels that characterizes surgical menopause.
Incorporation of climate change into a multiple stressor risk assessment for the Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) population in the Yakima River, Washington, USA
Authors: Landis Wayne G. , Mitchell Chelsea J. , Hader John D. , Nathan Rory , Sharpe Emma E.
Published: December 2023

One outcome of the 2022 Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Pellston Workshop on incorporating climate change predictions into ecological risk assessments was the key question of how to integrate ecological risk assessments that focus on contaminants with the environmental alterations from climate projections. This article summarizes the results of integrating selected direct and indirect effects of climate change into an existing Bayesian network previously used for ecological risk assessment. The existing Bayesian Network Relative Risk Model integrated the effects of two organophosphate pesticides (malathion and diazinon), water temperature, and dissolved oxygen levels on the Chinook salmon population in the Yakima River Basin (YRB), Washington, USA. The endpoint was defined as the entity, Yakima River metapopulation, and the attribute was defined as no decline to a subpopulation or the overall metapopulation. In this manner, we addressed the management objective of no net loss of Chinook salmon, an iconic and protected species. Climate change-induced changes in water quality parameters (temperature and dissolved oxygen levels) used models based on projected climatic conditions in the 2050s and 2080s by the use of a probabilistic model. Pesticide concentrations in the original model were modified assuming different scenarios of pest control strategies in the future, because climate change may alter pest numbers and species. Our results predict that future direct and indirect changes to the YRB will result in a greater probability that the salmon population will continue to fail to meet the management objective of no net loss. As indicated by the sensitivity analysis, the key driver in salmon population risk was found to be current and future changes in temperature and dissolved oxygen, with pesticide concentrations being not as important. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:419–432. © 2023 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
Global burden of 34 cancers among women in 2020 and projections to 2040: Population‐based data from 185 countries/territories
Authors: Bizuayehu Habtamu Mellie , Dadi Abel F. , Hassen Tahir A. , Ketema Daniel Bekele , Ahmed Kedir Y. , Kassa Zemenu Y. , Amsalu Erkihun , Kibret Getiye Dejenu , Alemu Addisu Alehegn , Alebel Animut , Shifa Jemal E. , Assefa Yibeltal , Tessema Gizachew A. , Sarich Peter , Gebremedhin Aster Ferede , Bore Meless G.
Published: December 2023

Globally women face inequality in cancer outcomes; for example, smaller improvements in life expectancy due to decreased cancer‐related deaths than men (0.5 vs 0.8 years, 1981–2010). However, comprehensive global evidence on the burden of cancer among women (including by reproductive age spectrum) as well as disparities by region, remains limited. This study aimed to address these evidence gaps by considering 34 cancer types in 2020 and their projections for 2040. The cancer burden among women in 2020 was estimated using population‐based data from 185 countries/territories sourced from GLOBOCAN. Mortality to Incidence Ratios (MIR), a proxy for survival, were estimated by dividing the age‐standardised mortality rates by the age‐standardised incidence rates. Demographic projections were performed to 2040. In 2020, there were an estimated 9.3 million cancer cases and 4.4 million cancer deaths globally. Projections showed an increase to 13.3 million (↑44%) and 7.1 million (↑60%) in 2040, respectively, with larger proportional increases in low‐ and middle‐income countries. MIR among women was higher (poorer survival) in rare cancers and with increasing age. Countries with low Human Development Indexes (HDIs) had higher MIRs (69%) than countries with very high HDIs (30%). There was inequality in cancer incidence and mortality worldwide among women in 2020, which will further widen by 2040. Implementing cancer prevention efforts and providing basic cancer treatments by expanding universal health coverage through a human rights approach, expanding early screening opportunities and strengthening medical infrastructure are key to improving and ensuring equity in cancer control and outcomes.
Influence of ovarian cysts on ovarian reserve and fertility: A case–control study
Authors: Bareghamyan Hasmik , Chopikyan Armine , Petrosyan Marine , Shahverdyan Nune , Harutyunyan Armine
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of having an ovarian cyst and undergoing cystectomy on the expression of ovarian reserve markers among adolescent females who live in Armenia.

Methods

We conducted a prospective case–control study. Cases were arranged into two groups. The postoperative group (POG) included those who underwent unilateral ovarian cystectomy, and those in the benign ovarian cyst group (BOCG) had complex ovarian cysts with a diameter of 5 cm or more. Adolescents without ovarian pathologies were included in the reference group (RFG). Levels of anti‐Mullerian hormone (AMH) and follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured, and an ultrasound investigation of antral follicular count (AFC) was also done.

Results

Mean differences between baseline and 6‐month follow‐up levels of AMH, AFC significantly decreased in both the POG and BOCG compared to the RFG. However, the decrease was more significant in the POG: a decrease of 0.86 ng/mL for AMH and 3.11 ng/mL for AFC versus decreasing by 0.61 ng/mL for AMH and 1.68 ng/mL for AFC. Meanwhile, in the BOCG, 6‐month FSH levels did not show any significant changes compared to the baseline measurement. In comparison with the reference group, there was a significant decrease in the levels of AMH and AFC among participants who had endometriomas and cystadenomas.

Conclusion

Benign ovarian cysts 5 cm or more in diameter, as well as cystectomy, statistically affect OR after 6 months. Therefore, adolescents with ovarian cyst or cystectomy need individualized support to maintain reproductive age fertility.
Comparative effect of different irrigation levels and soil amendments on cabbage productivity in semi‐arid Central Namibia
Authors: Enguwa Kuume B. P. , Horn Lydia N. , Awala Simon K.
Published: December 2023

In semi‐arid Central Namibia, poor sandy soils limit sustainable crop production. We assessed cabbage performance in two split‐plot field experiments. In Experiment 1, treatments comprised two irrigation levels: full irrigation (watered 3 days a week) and reduced irrigation (watered 2 days a week) as the main plot factor and six soil amendments (biochar; compost; zeolite; nitrogen, phosphorus potassium [NPK]; Be‐Grow boost [L] hydrogel; and hoof and horn + bone [HHB] meal) as subplot factors in three replications. Full irrigation produced a significantly higher yield (21.1 t ha−1), head weight (0.958 kg) and larger head girths (42.1 cm). Biochar produced the highest marketable heads (24,884 heads ha−1), water use efficiency (76.0 kg ha−1 mm−1) and the largest head girths (42.7 cm). In Experiment 2, water was applied 5 and 4 days a week for full and reduced irrigation; the application rates of compost, HHB meal, Be‐Grow boost (L) hydrogel and NPK were modified. The interaction of Be‐Grow boost (L) hydrogel, NPK and biochar with full irrigation and HHB meal with reduced irrigation produced more marketable heads (28,935, 28,009, 27,546 and 28,703 heads ha−1, respectively). Therefore, full irrigation with these amendments could be used for resilient cabbage production in Central Namibia.
The Dietary Fiber Inulin Slows Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease–Mineral Bone Disorder (CKD‐MBD) in a Rat Model of CKD
Authors: Biruete Annabel , Chen Neal X. , Metzger Corinne E. , Srinivasan Shruthi , O'Neill Kalisha , Fallen Paul B. , Fonseca Austin , Wilson Hannah E. , de Loor Henriette , Evenepoel Pieter , Swanson Kelly S. , Allen Matthew R. , Moe Sharon M.
Published: December 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD)–mineral bone disorder (CKD‐MBD) leads to fractures and cardiovascular disease. Observational studies suggest beneficial effects of dietary fiber on both bone and cardiovascular outcomes, but the effect of fiber on CKD‐MBD is unknown. To determine the effect of fiber on CKD‐MBD, we fed the Cy/+ rat with progressive CKD a casein‐based diet of 0.7% phosphate with 10% inulin (fermentable fiber) or cellulose (non‐fermentable fiber) from 22 weeks to either 30 or 32 weeks of age (~30% and ~15% of normal kidney function; CKD 4 and 5). We assessed CKD‐MBD end points of biochemistry, bone quantity and quality, cardiovascular health, and cecal microbiota and serum gut‐derived uremic toxins. Results were analyzed by two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to evaluate the main effects of CKD stage and inulin, and their interaction. The results showed that in CKD animals, inulin did not alter kidney function but reduced the increase from stage 4 to 5 in serum levels of phosphate and parathyroid hormone, but not fibroblast growth factor‐23 (FGF23). Bone turnover and cortical bone parameters were similarly improved but mechanical properties were not altered. Inulin slowed progression of aorta and cardiac calcification, left ventricular mass index, and fibrosis. To understand the mechanism, we assessed intestinal microbiota and found changes in alpha and beta diversity and significant changes in several taxa with inulin, together with a reduction in circulating gut derived uremic toxins such as indoxyl sulfate and short‐chain fatty acids. In conclusion, the addition of the fermentable fiber inulin to the diet of CKD rats led to a slowed progression of CKD‐MBD without affecting kidney function, likely mediated by changes in the gut microbiota composition and lowered gut‐derived uremic toxins. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Disulfidptosis‐related PABPC3 promotes tumor progression and inhibits immune activity in osteosarcoma
Authors: Cao Yangbo , Wu Song , Gu Yishan , Wong Yung Hou , Shi Yanbin , Zhang Lina
Published: December 2023

Background

Osteosarcoma is a very aggressive bone tumor mainly affecting teens and young adults. Disulfidptosis is a metabolic‐related form of regulated cell death. However, the interconnection between disulfidptosis and osteosarcoma has not been explored.

Methods

In the present study, disulfidptosis‐related clusters were identified in osteosarcoma using the nonnegative matrix factorization clustering method. PABPC3 was identified as a hazardous gene in osteosarcoma using machine learning algorithms, CoxBoost, and Random Survival Forest. The prognostic value, pathway annotation, immune characteristics, and drug prediction of PABPC3 were systematically explored. MTT (i.e., 3‐(4, 5‐dimethyl thiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenytetrazolium bromide), EdU (ie. 5‐ethyny‐2'‐deoxvuridine), and Transwell assays were used for in vitro validation of PABPC3.

Results

The disulfidptosis‐related clusters could distinguish survival outcomes of osteosarcoma patients. PABPC3 could predict survival outcomes, immune activity, and drug response in osteosarcoma patients. Besides, PABPC3 was proven to facilitate the proliferation and migration of osteosarcoma.

Conclusions

The present study is expected to establish the bridge between disulfidptosis and osteosarcoma. PABPC3 is expected to be further explored as a therapeutic target in osteosarcoma.
Posttranslational modifications of ACE2 protein: Implications for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and beyond
Authors: Xiao Yingzi , Chang Le , Ji Huimin , Sun Huizhen , Song Shi , Feng Kaihao , Nuermaimaiti Abudulimutailipu , Halemubieke Shana , Mei Ling , Lu Zhuoqun , Yan Ying , Wang Lunan
Published: December 2023

The present worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has highlighted the important function of angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) entry. A deeper understanding of ACE2 could offer insights into the mechanisms of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. While ACE2 is subject to regulation by various factors in vivo, current research in this area is insufficient to fully elucidate the corresponding pathways of control. Posttranslational modification (PTM) is a powerful tool for broadening the variety of proteins. The PTM study of ACE2 will help us to make up for the deficiency in the regulation of protein synthesis and translation. However, research on PTM‐related aspects of ACE2 remains limited, mostly focused on glycosylation. Accordingly, a comprehensive review of ACE2 PTMs could help us better understand the infection process and provide a basis for the treatment of COVID‐19 and beyond.
A phenotypically robust model of spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy in Drosophila
Authors: Richardson Kristin , Sengupta Medha , Sujkowski Alyson , Libohova Kozeta , Harris Autumn C. , Wessells Robert , Merry Diane E. , Todi Sokol V.
Published: December 2023

Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) is an X‐linked disorder that affects males who inherit the androgen receptor (AR) gene with an abnormal CAG triplet repeat expansion. The resulting protein contains an elongated polyglutamine (polyQ) tract and causes motor neuron degeneration in an androgen‐dependent manner. The precise molecular sequelae of SBMA are unclear. To assist with its investigation and the identification of therapeutic options, we report here a new model of SBMA in Drosophila melanogaster. We generated transgenic flies that express the full‐length, human AR with a wild‐type or pathogenic polyQ repeat. Each transgene is inserted into the same safe harbor site on the third chromosome of the fly as a single copy and in the same orientation. Expression of pathogenic AR, but not of its wild‐type variant, in neurons or muscles leads to consistent, progressive defects in longevity and motility that are concomitant with polyQ‐expanded AR protein aggregation and reduced complexity in neuromuscular junctions. Additional assays show adult fly eye abnormalities associated with the pathogenic AR species. The detrimental effects of pathogenic AR are accentuated by feeding flies the androgen, dihydrotestosterone. This new, robust SBMA model can be a valuable tool toward future investigations of this incurable disease.
Should I stay or should I go? The cerebral bases of street‐crossing decision
Authors: Baurès Robin , Leblond Solène , Dewailly Andrea , Cherubini Marta , Subramanian Lakshmi Devi , Kearney Joseph K. , Durand Jean Baptiste , Roux Franck Emmanuel
Published: December 2023

An observer willing to cross a street must first estimate if the approaching cars offer enough time to safely complete the task. The brain areas supporting this perception, known as Time‐To‐Contact (TTC) perception, have been mainly studied through noninvasive correlational approaches. We carried out an experiment in which patients were tested during an awake brain surgery electrostimulation mapping to examine the causal implication of various brain areas in the street‐crossing decision process. Forty patients were tested in a gap acceptance task before their surgery to establish a baseline performance. The task was individually adapted upon this baseline level and carried out during their surgery. We acquired and normalized to MNI space the coordinates of the functional areas that influenced task performance. A total of 103 stimulation sites were tested, allowing to establish a large map of the areas involved in the street‐crossing decision. Multiple sites were found to impact the gap acceptance decision. A direct implication was however found mostly for sites within the right parietal lobe, while indirect implication was found for sites within the language, motor, or attentional networks. The right parietal lobe can be considered as causally influencing the gap acceptance decision. Other positive sites were all accompanied with dysfunction in other cognitive functions, and therefore should probably not be considered as the site of TTC estimation.
Role of narL gene in the pathogenesis of Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Mani Pashupathi , Priyadarsini Swagatika , K. Channabasappa Nikhil , Sahoo Pravas Ranjan , Singh Rohit , Saxena Meeta , Upmanyu Vikramaditya , Agrawal Ravi Kant , Singh Praveen , Saini Mohini , Kumar Ajay
Published: December 2023

Salmonella Typhimurium (STM) is a facultative anaerobe and one of the causative agents of nontyphoidal salmonellosis (NTS). Its anaerobic metabolism is enabled under the hypoxic environment that is encountered inside macrophages and the gut lumen of the host. In both of these niches, free radicals and oxidative intermediates are released by neutrophils as an inflammatory response. These chemical species further undergo reactions to produce nitrate, which is preferably taken up by STM as an electron acceptor in the absence of oxygen. NarL, the response regulator of the two‐component regulatory system NarX/L, and a transcription factor, gets activated under anaerobic nitrate‐rich conditions and upregulates the nitrate reduction during anaerobic respiration of STM. To understand the role of NarL in the pathogenesis of STM, we generated a narL‐knockout (STM:ΔnarL) as well as a narL‐complemented strain of STM. Anaerobically, the mutant displayed no growth defect but a significant attenuation in the swimming (26%) and swarming (61%) motility, and biofilm‐forming ability (73%) in vitro, while these morphotypes got rescued upon genetic complementation. We also observed a downregulation in the expression of genes associated with nitrate reduction (narG) and biofilm formation (csgA and csgD) in anaerobically grown STM:ΔnarL. As compared with wild STM, narL mutant exhibited a threefold reduction in the intracellular replication in both intestinal epithelial cells (INT‐ 407) and monocyte‐derived macrophages of poultry origin. Further, in vivo competitive assay in the liver and spleen of the murine model showed a competitive index of 0.48 ± 0.58 and 0.403668 ± 0.32, respectively, for STM:ΔnarL.
Small and large bowel anatomy is associated with enteral autonomy in infants with short bowel syndrome: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sandy Natascha S. , Roberts Amin J. , Wales Paul W. , Toma Ricardo K. , Belza Christina , Dogra Harween , Evans Helen M. , Gattini Daniela , Hind Jonathan , Mercer David , Povondra Jill M. , Turner Justine , Yap Jason , Wong Theodoric , Avitzur Yaron
Published: December 2023

Background

Achievement of enteral autonomy (EA) is the ultimate treatment goal in pediatric intestinal failure (IF). We aimed to assess predictors of EA in pediatric short bowel syndrome (SBS) and explore the impact of residual small bowel (SB) and large bowel (LB) length on EA.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed on infants aged <12 months (n = 367, six centers) with SBS referred between 2010 and 2015. The cohort was stratified based on the achievement of EA. Statistical testing was completed using t‐test, chi‐square, Cox proportional hazards regression model, and Kaplan‐Meier analysis.

Results

EA was achieved in 229 patients. In the multivariable analysis, the percentage of residual LB (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.02; 95% CI = 1.01–1.02) and SB (HR = 1.01; 95% CI = 1.01–1.02) length, presence of the ileocecal valve (HR = 2.02; 95% CI=1.41–2.88), and not coming from a high‐volume transplantation center (HR = 2.42; 95% CI = 1.68–3.49) were positively associated with EA, whereas a negative association was seen with the presence of stoma at the time when shortest remnant was documented (HR = 0.72; 95% CI = 0.52–1.00). EA achievement was significantly different between the anatomical subgroups (log‐rank test P < 0.001) with an EA rate of 80.4% in infants with ≥50% SB and LB (median time 209 days); 62.5% with ≥50% SB and <50% LB (397 days); 58.3% with <50% SB and ≥50% LB (1192 days), and 25.9% with <50% SB and LB. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) was not associated with a better achievement of EA (NEC vs other etiologies: log‐rank test P = 0.33).

Conclusions

Overall, 62% of infants with IF secondary to SBS achieved EA over a mean time of follow‐up of 2.3 years. A colon length of >50% can compensate for the loss of small bowel (<50%) and account for similar EA rates as those in children with residual SB > 50%.
Preparation, characterization, and bioavailability evaluation of antioxidant phosvitin peptide‐ferrous complex
Authors: Song Lushan , Zhu Linxian , Qiao Saifeng , Song Li , Zhang Mingran , Xue Tianrui , Lv Binfei , Liu Huiping , Zhang Xiaowei
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is one of the commonest global nutritional deficiency diseases, and the low bioavailability of iron is a key contributing factor. The peptide‐iron complex could be used as a novel iron supplement to improve iron bioavailability.

RESULTS

In this study, antioxidant low molecular weight (<3 kDa) phosvitin peptide (named PP‐4) was separated to prepare a phosvitin peptide‐ferrous complex (named PP‐4‐Fe); then the structural conformation of PP‐4‐Fe was characterized and its bioavailability by in vitro digestion was evaluated. The results showed that PP‐4 had good ferrous‐binding activity with 96.14 ± 2.86 μg Fe2+ mg−1, and had a strong antioxidant effect with 995.61 ± 79.75 μmol TE mg−1 in 2,2'‐azinobis'3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 62.3 ± 3.95 μmol FeSO4 mg−1 in ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). After ferrous binding, the FRAP activity of PP‐4‐Fe, enhanced by 1.8 times, formed a more ordered structure with an increase in α‐helix and decrease in γ‐random coil. The ferrous binding sites of PP‐4 involved were the amino, carboxyl, imidazole, and phosphate groups. The PP‐4‐Fe complex displayed excellent gastrointestinal stability and antioxidant effects during digestion. The iron dialysis percentage of PP‐4‐Fe was 74.59% ± 0.68%, and increased to 81.10% ± 0.89% with the addition of 0.25 times vitamin C (VC). This indicated that PP‐4‐Fe displayed excellent bioavailability and VC in sufficient quantities had a synergistic effect on improving bioavailability.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that antioxidant phosvitin peptide was an efficient delivery system to protect ferrous ions and suggested that the phosvitin peptide‐ferrous complex has strong potential as a ferrous supplement. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Alternatives to English only in scholarly publishing: Emerging trends of language policies among non‐Anglophone journals?
Authors: Li Xiangdong
Published: December 2023

Key points

Publish in English or perish is becoming a reality in many non‐Anglophone countries.

Non‐Anglophone journals are facing a dilemma: losing appeal to authors/reviewers if published in local languages or losing linguistic/cultural identity if published in English.

This article analyses language policies those journals may use and positions them on a capital‐identity matrix to highlight their advantages and disadvantages.

The article elaborates on two emerging language policies (bilingual publishing and extended English summary), both helping preserve their identity and take advantage of the capital of the English language.

The article provides insights into the pros and cons of different language policies and how to select policies that best support journal survival and development.
Study of sample preparation influence on bacterial lipids profile in matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Arendowski Adrian , Sibińska Ewelina , Miśta Wioletta , Fijałkowski Piotr , Złoch Michał , Gabryś Dorota , Pomastowski Paweł
Published: December 2023

Lipids are one of the cell components therefore it is important to be able to accurately assess them. One of the analytical techniques used to study lipid profiles is matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI TOF MS). The present study attempted to select optimal conditions for sample preparation and MALDI MS analysis of bacterial lipidome in both positive and negative ion modes using different extraction protocols—Folch, Matyash, and Bligh & Dyer, solvents used to apply samples, and matrices such as 9‐aminoacridine (9‐AA), α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA), 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB), 2‐mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), and 2,4,6‐trihydroxyacetophenone (THAP). The obtained results allowed concluding that DHB or CHCA matrices are suitable for lipid analysis in the positive mode, and in the negative mode THAP or 9‐AA. The most appropriate protocol for extracting lipids from bacterial cells was the Bligh & Dyer method in both ionization modes. The use of the solvent TA30, which was a mixture of acetonitrile and 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid in water, provided on the spectra a significant number of signals from lipids in all groups analyzed, such as fatty acyls, glycerolipids, and glycerophospholipids.
Metastatic pancreatic cancer mimicking medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw—A rare clinical presentation
Authors: Gurav Sandeep , Singh Gurkaran Preet , Ostwal Vikas , Sharma Madhura , Jagtiani Kiran
Published: December 2023

Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis owing to its rapid progression, high mortality rate, and alarming 5‐year survival rate of 5%. Skeletal metastases represent an understated site of metastasis in patients with pancreatic cancer, occurring in about 5%–20% of these patients. The clinical presentation of metastasis to the jaws and osteonecrosis of jaw can exhibit similarities, which may lead to an erroneous diagnosis or create a diagnostic dilemma. We present a case of a 62‐year‐old male patient diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma and a prior history of bisphosphonate administration who displayed symptoms such as jaw pain, numbness, reduced mouth opening, and an extra‐oral swelling involving a recent tooth extraction site, likely due to medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). Despite initial conservative treatment, the patient's symptoms persisted, prompting further investigation. Depending on the specific context and clinical scenario, it is crucial to employ a comprehensive approach such as clinical examination, radiographic imaging, histopathological examination and monitoring the progression of symptoms over time for accurate diagnosis and timely management. This article presents a rare case of metastatic pancreatic cancer mimicking medication related ONJ, highlighting the clinical dilemma and challenges encountered when presenting symptoms and signs are ambiguous. While the prognosis for such cases is generally poor, dentists and healthcare providers should remain vigilant regarding potential sites of metastasis in cases of pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
3D characterization of abnormal grain growth in nanocrystalline nickel
Authors: Zhu Wanquan , Huang Xiaobing , Cai Wei , Huang Tianlin , Wu Guilin , Huang Xiaoxu
Published: December 2023

Abnormal grain growth, a pervasive phenomenon witnessed during the annealing of nanocrystalline metals, precipitates a swift diminution of the distinctive properties inherent to such materials. Historically, conventional transmission electron microscopy has struggled to efficiently procure comprehensive five‐parameter crystallographic information from a substantial number of grain boundaries in nanocrystalline metals, thus inhibiting a deeper understanding of abnormal grain growth behavior within nanocrystalline materials. In this study, we utilize a high‐throughput characterization method—three‐dimensional orientation mapping in the TEM (3D‐OMiTEM) to characterize the crystallographic five‐parameter character of grain boundaries with an area of over 3.4 × 106 nm2 in an abnormally grown nanocrystalline nickel sample. When coupled with existing theoretical simulation results, it is discerned that the grain boundary population shows a relatively large scatter when it is correlated to the calculated grain boundary energy; the grain boundaries of abnormally grown grains exhibit lower grain boundary energy compared to those that have not undergone abnormal growth. Merging high‐throughput grain boundary information obtained from three‐dimensional orientation mapping data with grain boundary properties derived from high‐throughput theoretical calculations following the concept of materials genome engineering will undoubtedly facilitate further advancements in comprehending and discerning the interfacial behaviors of crystalline materials.
Multi‐Omics Analysis Reveals Sphingomyelin Accumulation, Glycerolipids Loss, and Disorders of Lipid Metabolism Regulated by Leucine Deprivation in the Liver of Mice
Authors: Yu Haonan , Niu Yaorong , Lei Xinyu , Xie Chunlin , Yan Xianghua
Published: December 2023

Scope

Branched‐chain amino acids, especially leucine, have been reported to play a role in regulating lipid metabolism. This study aims to examine the effects of leucine deprivation on hepatic lipid metabolism.

Methods and results

C57BL/6 mice are fed with a chow diet (control group, n = 8) or a leucine‐free diet (‐Leu group, n = 8) for 7 days. Histology, lipidomics, targeted metabolomics, and transcriptomics are performed to analyze the liver tissue. Compared to control group, ‐Leu group exhibits a notably reduced liver weight, accompanied by hepatic injury, and disorders of lipid metabolism. The level of sphingomyelin (SM) is significantly increased in the liver of ‐Leu group, while the glycerolipids (GL) level is significantly decreased. The expression of sphingomyelin synthase 1 (SGMS1) is upregulated by leucine deprivation in a time‐dependent manner, leading to hepatic SM accumulation. Moreover, leucine deprivation results in hepatic GL loss via suppressing fatty acid synthase (FASN) and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1) expression.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate that leucine deprivation results in abnormal lipid metabolism in the liver, mainly manifested as SM accumulation and GL loss. These results provide insights into the role of leucine in regulating lipid metabolism.
Combination of stem cells and nerve guide conduit for the treatment of peripheral nerve injury: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Cao Siyang , Yihao Wei , Qi Tiantian , Xiong Ao , Liu Peng , Chen Yingqi , Zeng Hui , Yu Fei , Weng Jian
Published: December 2023

Introduction/Aims

Many small‐sized, single‐center preclinical studies have investigated the benefits of introducing stem cells into the interior of nerve conduit. The aims of this meta‐analysis are to review and contrast the effects of various types of stem cells in in vivo models used to reconstruct peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) and to assess the reliability and stability of the available evidence.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted using Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science to identify studies conducted from January 1, 2000, to September 21, 2022, and investigate stem cell therapy in peripheral nerve reconstruction animal models. Studies that met the relevant criteria were deemed eligible for this meta‐analysis.

Results

Fifty‐five preclinical studies with a total of 1234 animals were incorporated. Stem cells demonstrated a positive impact on peripheral nerve regeneration at different follow‐up times in the forest plots of five outcome indicators: compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude, latency, muscle mass ratio, nerve conduction velocity, and sciatic functional index (SFI). In most comparisons, stem cell groups showed substantial differences compared with the control groups. The superior performance of adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) in terms of SFI, CMAP amplitude, and latency (p < .001) was identified.

Discussion

The findings consistently demonstrated a favorable outcome in the reconstruction process when utilizing different groups of stem cells, as opposed to control groups where stem cells were not employed.
Biofouling resistant materials based on micro‐structured surfaces with liquid‐repellent properties
Authors: Jitniyom Thanaphun , Gaddam Anvesh , Williams Georgia , Churm James , Dearn Karl , Banzhaf Manuel , de Cogan Felicity , Dimov Stefan , Gao Nan
Published: December 2023

Adhesion of contaminants on various polymer‐based devices during fluid‐substrate interactions is a common problem that can cause biofouling and corrosion. In this study, hierarchical structures with submicron features on polypropylene (PP), high‐density polyethylene (HDPE), and polycarbonate (PC) are fabricated by femtosecond laser ablation. The effect of the hierarchical structures on surface wettability, droplet impact, and bacterial attachment has been examined. Our results demonstrate that the structured polymeric substrates facilitate large contact angles and minimal interfacial adhesion, allowing droplets to roll off at a low angle of inclination below 5°. Further, rendering the hierarchical structures with a low‐surface‐energy coating can enable the surfaces to exhibit superamphiphobic properties. The low interfacial adhesion properties, as accounted by the large contact angles and small contact angle hysteresis, of such surfaces prevent bacterial attachment and biofilm formation. The findings provide a design principle for creating affordable biofouling resistant surfaces with a submicron topography that can be used for engineering and biomedical devices.
Muscle fiber strain rates in the lower leg during ankle dorsi‐/plantarflexion exercise
Authors: Hooijmans Melissa T. , Veeger Thom T. J. , Mazzoli Valentina , van Assen Hans C. , de Groot Jurriaan H. , Gottwald Lukas M. , Nederveen Aart J. , Strijkers Gustav J. , Kan Hermien E.
Published: December 2023

Static quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides readouts of structural changes in diseased muscle, but current approaches lack the ability to fully explain the loss of contractile function. Muscle contractile function can be assessed using various techniques including phase‐contrast MRI (PC‐MRI), where strain rates are quantified. However, current two‐dimensional implementations are limited in capturing the complex motion of contracting muscle in the context of its three‐dimensional (3D) fiber architecture. The MR acquisitions (chemical shift‐encoded water–fat separation scan, spin echo‐echoplanar imaging with diffusion weighting, and two time‐resolved 3D PC‐MRI) wereperformed at 3 T. PC‐MRI acquisitions and performed with and without load at 7.5% of the maximum voluntary dorsiflexion contraction force. Acquisitions (3 T, chemical shift‐encoded water–fat separation scan, spin echo‐echo planar imaging with diffusion weighting, and two time‐resolved 3D PC‐MRI) were performed with and without load at 7.5% of the maximum voluntary dorsiflexion contraction force. Strain rates and diffusion tensors were calculated and combined to obtain strain rates along and perpendicular to the muscle fibers in seven lower leg muscles during the dynamic dorsi‐/plantarflexion movement cycle. To evaluate strain rates along the proximodistal muscle axis, muscles were divided into five equal segments. t‐tests were used to test if cyclic strain rate patterns (amplitude > 0) were present along and perpendicular to the muscle fibers. The effects of proximal‐distal location and load were evaluated using repeated measures ANOVAs. Cyclic temporal strain rate patterns along and perpendicular to the fiber were found in all muscles involved in dorsi‐/plantarflexion movement (p < 0.0017). Strain rates along and perpendicular to the fiber were heterogeneously distributed over the length of most muscles (p < 0.003). Additional loading reduced strain rates of the extensor digitorum longus and gastrocnemius lateralis muscle (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the lower leg muscles involved in cyclic dorsi‐/plantarflexion exercise showed cyclic fiber strain rate patterns with amplitudes that varied between muscles and between the proximodistal segments within the majority of muscles.
Practical clinical guidelines and pharmacological treatment for attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder in Asia
Authors: Kawabe Kentaro , Horiuchi Fumie , Matsumoto Yu , Inoue Saori , Okazawa Maya , Hosokawa Rie , Nakachi Kiwamu , Soga Junya , Ueno Shu‐Ichi
Published: December 2023

Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by persistent symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Both, stimulant and nonstimulant medications have been approved for the treatment of this disorder. Several Western guidelines recommend the use of prescribed Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved medications for ADHD along with parental training in behavior management and behavioral classroom intervention. In 2022, new Japanese guidelines for ADHD were issued, which recommended school environment management and psychosocial treatment as the first‐line treatment, with pharmacological treatment added as the second‐line treatment. Although Japanese guidelines, including pharmacological treatments, have been established, the guidelines and utilization of ADHD medications across Asian regions are unclear. Therefore, to appropriately evaluate the strategy of pharmacological treatments for ADHD, we investigated Asian regional guidelines for ADHD medication in children. We also reviewed the guidelines in Malaysia, Singapore, India, and the Republic of Korea and found that these guidelines differ from Western guidelines.
Anxious‐depressive attack and rejection sensitivity—Toward a new approach to treatment‐resistant depression
Authors: Kaiya Hisanobu
Published: December 2023

This paper aimed to find clues to treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) solutions. Depression comorbid with anxiety is often treatment‐resistant where anxious‐depressive attack (ADA) often lurks. ADA is a recently proposed clinical idea for just a psychological version of a panic attack. It mostly begins with an abrupt surge of intense anxiety followed by uninterrupted intrusive thoughts; lasting ruminations about regret or worry produced by violent anxiety, agitation, and loneliness. Acting‐out behaviors such as deliberate self‐injury and over‐dose may also be observed during the attack. As the basic psychopathology of ADA, rejection sensitivity (RS) was revealed by a structural equation model. It is said that the presence of RS in depressive disorders implies a poor prognosis. The following biological markers for RS were reviewed in the literature: first, the involvement of the μ‐opioid receptor function in RS and, secondly, hypersensitivity of the dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) in the medial prefrontal cortex. The latter has been suggested in fear‐conditioned animal experiments. Manipulation of the μ‐opioid receptor function together with the DRD4 function may culminate in a treatment for RS, which could contribute to the development of a treatment for TRD via the improvement of ADA.
Water Utilities Need Effective Data Management
Authors: Mitchell Joey A.
Published: December 2023

For water utilities to succeed with technology implementation, they should establish effective data management through in‐depth analysis, centralized data, and a disciplined data governance strategy.
Robust performance for composites using silicone rubber with different prospects for wearable electronics
Authors: Kumar Vineet , Alam Md. Najib , Yewale Manesh A. , Park Sang‐Shin
Published: December 2023

The different configurations of the composites originated with machine or human motion, and their mechanical stability for wearable electronics is in focus. Here, the study highlights that these configurations are critical for wearable devices. To achieve these aspects, the electroactive and dielectric silicone rubber (SR) was used as a host matrix. This SR not only provides flexibility, twisting, or stretchability for such devices, but its lightweight makes them comfortable for robust wearable devices. The reinforcing fillers such as graphite nanoplatelets (GNP) or diatomaceous earth (DE) and their hybrids are used. The electromechanical properties of the device were performed using the universal testing machine. The output voltage generated at 15 phr filler was 0.3 mV (GNP), 0.15 mV (DE), and 0.22 mV (hybrid). Similarly, the biomechanical properties were studied with human motion joints such as thumb pressing or wrist bending. The output voltage at 15 phr was best for thumb pressing and it was 0.42 mV (GNP), 0.18 mV (DE), and 0.25 mV (hybrid). In the same way, the mechanical aspects studied in this work are compressive modulus, tensile strength, and fracture strain. For example, the compressive modulus was 1.28 MPa (control) and increased at 15 phr filler to 2.44 MPa (GNP), 3.2 MPa (DE), and 2.75 MPa (hybrid). Similarly, the mechanical stretchability of the devices was 134% (control) and changed at 15 phr filler to 128% (GNP), 78% (DE), and 109% (hybrid). Overall, the work demonstrates the method to develop a device with high mechanical, electromechanical, and biomechanical properties and their usefulness for wearable electronic devices.
Chemical surface modification for RO membranes based on GO‐mixed polymers for water desalination and biofouling study
Authors: Shalaby Marwa S. , Abdallah Heba , Wilken Ralph , Christoph Schmuser , Shaban Ahmed M. , Mansor Eman
Published: December 2023

The modification of conventional polyamide reverse osmosis (RO) membranes with grafted methacrylic acid in the presence of nanomaterial is disclosed. To decrease fouling, this study shows the effectiveness of grafting a hydrophilic methacrylic acid (PMAA) and graphene oxide (GO) nanosheet. The change in membrane surface after coating method with different layers was obvious. The results of the ATR‐FTIR, SEM, AFM, contact angle investigations from side and enhanced rejection and permeability from other side proved that the grafting and modification processes had been successful. In comparison between different modifications based on grafting for thin film and blend RO membranes (RO T, RO P, and RO PG), it was found that the modified membrane nominated RO TG membranes showed less biofouling. The modified membrane with 1.25 weight percent PMAA concentration and 0.4 weight percent distributed GO had the lowest contact angle, the least fouling, the highest chlorine resistance, and improved desalination performance.

Highlights

Biofouling study for modified RO membranes

Chlorine resistance membranes for water desalination

Enhanced surface hydrophilicity through grafting of polyamide membranes
Analytical modeling and experimental estimation of the dynamic mechanical characteristics of green composite: Caesalpinia decapetala seed reinforcement
Authors: Chenrayan Venkatesh , Kanaginahal Gangadhar , Shahapurkar Kiran , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M. , Fouad Yasser , Kalam M. A.
Published: December 2023

The emerging need for a sustainable environment prompts the research community to develop functional materials with bio‐ and organic waste. This research advocates biodegradable waste management and its performance evaluation. The involvement of Caesalpinia decapetala (CD) as a potential reinforcement in the epoxy matrix and its analytical evaluation of thermal stability are novel ideas for disposing of bio and organic waste. Three different variants (10, 20, and 30 wt%) of CD seed particles are used to develop the epoxy composite, and further, their influence on dynamic mechanical characteristics such as damping type, loss modulus, and storage modulus has been investigated. The results corroborate that the higher CD seed content (30 wt%) in the epoxy matrix enhances the storage modulus, loss modulus, and damping on a scale of 1.14, 1.25, and 1.07 times that of the neat epoxy matrix. The reason behind the improved dynamic properties has been validated through theoretical modeling. A substantial increment in the degree of entanglement and activation energy in the band of 8.33 × 10−3 moles/m3 and 20.201 kJ/mol, respectively, in comparison with neat epoxy, is considered to be good authentication for the thermal stability of the CD 30 specimen. The analytical prediction of storage modulus is executed with five different models, whereas damping behavior is executed with two different models. The analytically estimated results are matched with the experimental ones, and we conclude that they are in fair agreement with the experimental findings.
Characterization of outer membrane vesicles released by clinical isolates of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Dhital Subhash , Deo Pankaj , Stuart Isabella , Huang Cheng , Zavan Lauren , Han Mei‐Ling , Kaparakis‐Liaskos Maria , Ramm Georg , Schittenhelm Ralf B. , Howden Benjamin , Naderer Thomas
Published: December 2023

The sexually transmitted pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae releases membrane vesicles including outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) during infections. OMVs traffic outer membrane molecules, such as the porin PorB and lipo‐oligosaccharide (LOS), into host innate immune cells, eliciting programmed cell death pathways, and inflammation. Little is known, however, about the proteome and LOS content of OMVs released by clinical strains isolated from different infection sites, and whether these vesicles similarly activate immune responses. Here, we characterized OMVs from four N. gonorrhoeae isolates and determined their size, abundance, proteome, LOS content, and activation of inflammatory responses in macrophages. The overall proteome of the OMVs was conserved between the four different isolates, which included major outer membrane and periplasm proteins. Despite this, we observed differences in the rate of OMV biogenesis and the relative abundance of membrane proteins and LOS. Consequently, OMVs from clinical isolates induced varying rates of macrophage cell death and the secretion of interleukin‐1 family members, such as IL‐1α and IL‐1β. Overall, these findings demonstrate that clinical isolates of N. gonorrhoeae utilize membrane vesicles to release proteins and lipids, which affects innate immune responses.