bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The policy transaction perspective: A pragmatist‐constructivist approach to the policy process
Authors: Ansell Christopher , Hassenteufel Patrick , Zittoun Philippe
Published: October 2024

The aim of this paper is to advance a pragmatist‐constructivist perspective on the policy process. Building on the pragmatist concept of “transaction,” this perspective suggests that we can further illuminate the policy process by moving towards a more relational analysis that focuses on the emergent co‐construction of actors and issues. It stresses that policy processes are always a form of valuation where values are discovered and invented and through which interests are staked out and identities are forged. The article conceptualizes the policy process as an assemblage of intervening policy situations where policy valuation, problematization, and policy formulation take place and where collective action and problems/solutions are built and tested. The Policy Transaction perspective ultimately opens our eyes to how policy processes form and define the relationship between state and society.
Computation of Deformable Interface Two‐Phase Flows: A Semi‐Lagrangian Finite Element Approach
Authors: Santos Daniel B. V. , Vidal Rafael , Valluri Prashant , Anjos Gustavo R.
Published: October 2024

This work aims at presenting a new computational approach to study two and three dimensional two‐phase flows and two dimensional coalescence phenomenon using direct numerical simulation. The flows are modeled by the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations, which are approximated by the finite element method. The Galerkin formulation is used to discretize the Navier–Stokes equations in the spatial domain and the semi‐Lagrangian method is used to discretize the material derivative. In order to satisfy the Ladyzhenskaya–Babuška–Brezzi condition, high‐order stable pair of elements are used, with pressure and velocity fields being calculated on different degrees of freedom in the unstructured mesh nodes. The interface is modeled by an unfitted adaptive moving mesh, where interface nodes are tracked in a Lagrangian fashion and moved with the velocity solution of the fluid motion equations. The surface tension is computed using the interface curvature and the gradient of a Heaviside function, and added in the momentum equations as a body force. In order to avoid undesired spurious modes at the interface due to high property ratios, a smooth transition between fluid properties is defined on the interface region. Several benchmark tests have been carried out to validate the proposed approach, and the obtained results have demonstrated agreement with analytical solutions and numerical results reported in the literature. A coalescence model is also proposed based on geometric criteria and results show interesting dynamics.
Advancing Economical and Environmentally Conscious Electrification: A Comprehensive Framework for Microgrid Design in Off‐Grid Regions
Authors: Azad A M Almas Shahriyar , Oishi Zarin Tasnim , Islam Md. Ariful , Islam Md. Rakibul
Published: October 2024

The design of renewable energy systems traditionally emphasizes life cycle costs, often focusing primarily on emissions rather than a comprehensive life cycle impact assessment. This research proposes a four‐tier methodology to balance cost‐effectiveness and sustainability in the electrification of remote areas. Tier 1 focuses on understanding the community context by analyzing electrical load profiles, meteorological data, and component specifications for microgrid design. Tier 2 evaluates the feasibility of various systems, optimizing them through cost analysis and Multi‐Criteria Decision‐Making (MCDM) to rank alternatives. Tier 3 assesses environmental impacts using life cycle assessment, ranking alternatives based on environmental criteria. Tier 4 integrates cost and environmental rankings to determine the most suitable energy configurations, followed by sensitivity analysis to ensure robust decision‐making. The methodology is validated through a case study of an unelectrified remote community, demonstrating that the PV‐Wind Turbine‐Biomass Generator‐Converter configuration is the most robust alternative, proving to be the optimal choice in 50% of the analyzed scenarios, achieving a Cost of Energy of 0.213 USD/kWh while minimizing environmental impact across all 18 criteria considered over a 25‐year life cycle. This novel framework offers a scalable approach to designing renewable energy systems, enhancing sustainable electrification efforts in developing regions.
Trans Oral Robotic Surgery for HPV‐Negative Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Follow‐Up on Oncological and Functional Outcomes
Authors: Azalmad Khalid , Lambercy Karma , Beharry Avinash , Piazzon Nathalie , Barbesier Marie , Dalla‐Vale Margaux , Moraru Manuela , Berezowska Sabina , Simon Christian
Published: October 2024

Background

The efficacy of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for HPV‐negative oropharyngeal cancers (OPSCC) is less explored, especially regarding long‐term outcomes and prognostic factors.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective monocentric study on 37 patients with HPV‐negative OPSCC treated with TORS with a median follow‐up of 3 years, assessing survival outcomes using Kaplan‐Meyer statistics and swallowing function via the functional outcome swallowing scale (FOSS). Histopathological parameters were collected either from medical records or histology slides were re‐evaluated.

Results

Patients demonstrated high disease‐specific survival (DSS) but lower overall survival (OS), with a cohort characterized by high comorbidity rates. Vascular invasion was a significant adverse factor for relapse‐free survival (RFS) and OS, while lymphatic invasion was not. Most patients demonstrated significant preservation of swallowing function.

Conclusions

TORS for HPV‐negative OPSCC demonstrates high DSS and preserved swallowing function. Vascular invasion is a key prognostic factor for survival outcomes.
A Chiral Propeller‐Shaped Triple Helicene Shows Multi‐Resonant Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
Authors: Wang Jingxiang , Oviedo Ortiz Jhon Sebastian , McKay Aidan P. , Cordes David B. , Crassous Jeanne , Zysman‐Colman Eli
Published: October 2024

Multi‐resonant thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) helicenes show great potential as chiral emitters due to their typically high photoluminescence quantum yield and that they emit circularly polarized luminescence. Here, a new propeller‐shaped chiral MR‐TADF helicene DiKTa3, integrating three DiKTa moieties, was designed and synthesized aiming to achieve co‐parallel electronic and magnitude transition dipole moments that would lead to a high dissymmetry factor, g. It emits at λPL of 491 nm, with a full width at half maximum of 52 nm and has a moderate ΔEST value of 0.24 eV in toluene. The separated (P,P,P) enantiomer shows an absorption dissymmetry factor |gabs| of 6.8×10−4 at 450 nm, which results from a lower symmetry conformation adopted by the compound in solution than the C3‐symmetric optimized structure. This work highlights the strong influence that geometry can have on the chiroptical properties of the emitter.
Assessing para‐aortic nodal status in high‐grade endometrial cancer patients with negative pelvic sentinel lymph node biopsy
Authors: Benseler Anouk , Vicus Danielle , Covens Allan , Kupets Rachel , Parra‐Herran Carlos , Gien Lilian T.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To determine the accuracy of pelvic sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLN) in detecting positive para‐aortic (PA) lymph nodes in high‐grade uterine cancer, and to determine the recurrence rate in patients with high‐grade uterine cancers who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy based on negative pelvic SLNs.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with newly diagnosed, high‐grade endometrial cancer who underwent surgery, including pelvic SLNs with or without PA node dissection, at a tertiary care institution between 2015 and 2020. Baseline demographics, surgical management, pathology data, and outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and survival analysis.

Results

Postoperative histology of the 110 patients meeting inclusion criteria was 45.5% grade 3 endometrioid, 36.4% serous, 10.9% clear cell, and 7.3% carcinosarcoma. On final pathology, 63.7% were stage 1, and 23.6% were stage 3C with positive nodes. A total of 63 patients (57.3%) had a PA lymph node dissection (56 bilateral, 7 unilateral) in addition to the pelvic SLN. Among this group, 5.8% (95% confidence interval 1.2%–16.0%) had a positive PA node despite a negative pelvic SLN. Among those with a negative pelvic SLN and no adjuvant chemotherapy (n = 75), the rate of distant recurrence was 14.7%, and 3‐year recurrence‐free survival was 71.9%.

Conclusion

The rate of isolated PA node metastasis in high‐grade endometrial cancers despite a negative pelvic SLN may be significantly higher than the accepted rate of isolated PA node metastasis in low‐grade endometrial cancer. This supports adjuvant treatment decisions continuing to incorporate primary tumor pathology and molecular classification.
Effects of gender‐affirming hormone therapy on lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual function among transgender individuals
Authors: Yaish Iris , Amir Hadar , Eilam Hila , Gold Ronen , Groutz Asnat
Published: October 2024

Objective

Gender‐affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) includes estrogen preparations and androgen inhibitors for transgender women, and testosterone preparations for transgender men. The aim of the study was to investigate possible effects of GAHT on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and sexual function among transgender individuals.

Methods

Fifty‐one transgender men and 47 transgender women were prospectively recruited. Four validated female questionnaires (Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms [BFLUTS] questionnaire, the Medical, Epidemiologic, and Social aspects of Aging [MESA] questionnaire, Urgency, the Severity and Impact Questionnaire [USIQ], and the Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI]) and two validated male questionnaires (International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS], and the International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF]) were used to assess LUTS and sexual function among transgender men and women, respectively, before and during GAHT. Follow‐up was performed over a period of 3–12 months.

Results

Thirty‐four transgender men (mean age 24.4 ± 7.6 years) and 31 transgender women (mean age 29 ± 8.7 years) completed all questionnaires, before and during GAHT. Testosterone treatment was associated with a statistically significant improvement in sexual desire among transgender men, as reflected in the FSFI questionnaire (4.5 ± 1.2 vs. 3.6 ± 1.3, P = 0.002). None of the three LUTS questionnaires showed statistically significant changes during the treatment with testosterone preparations. Estrogen treatment was associated with a statistically significant decrease in erectile function among transgender women, as reflected by the IIEF questionnaire (9.0 ± 7.2 vs. 14.1 ± 11.1, P = 0.012). No significant changes were found in LUTS during the treatment with estrogen preparations, except for a slight worsening of nocturia (2.1 ± 1.8 vs. 1.1 ± 1.4, P = 0.009).

Conclusions

GAHT was not found to be associated with significant LUTS in both transgender men and women. Nevertheless, some effects on sexual function were observed, mainly a decrease in erectile function among transgender women and an increase in sexual desire among transgender men.
Effect of Photobiomodulation on an Experimental Model of Lower Limb Ischemia
Authors: Perez Silvana Torres , Andreo Lucas , Junior José Antonio Silva , Bussadori Sandra Kalil , Horliana Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini , Mesquita‐Ferrari Raquel Agnelli , Fernandes Kristianne Porta Santos
Published: October 2024

Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been shown to be promising for the promotion of angiogenesis. The present study investigated the effects of PBM on vascularization in an animal model of peripheral artery disease. Wistar rats were divided into three groups. The control group received no procedures. The ischemia group was submitted to ligation of the femoral artery of the hindleg. The ischemia + PBM group was submitted to ligation of the femoral artery followed by PBM (660 and 808 nm, 100 mW, 4 J) over the site. Animals with ischemia treated with PBM exhibited comparable results to the control group with regards to the diameter of the α‐SMA+ vessels, cross‐sectional area of muscle fibers, percentage of collagen and serum concentration of IL‐17A, as well as similarities in terms of vertical mobility, temperature of the hindleg, number of acts of grooming, and percentage of movement, indicating a condition like that of limbs unaffected by ischemia.
The Undergraduate Engineering Mental Health Help‐Seeking Instrument (UE‐MH‐HSI): Development and validity evidence
Authors: Hammer Joseph H. , Wright Courtney J. , Miller Melanie E. , Wilson Sarah A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Undergraduate engineering students experiencing distress are less likely than peers to ask for professional help. A population‐specific instrument to facilitate the identification of factors that influence mental healthcare utilization could guide development and testing of interventions to increase help seeking.

Purpose

We used mixed methods guided by the Integrated Behavioral Model (IBM) to develop and evaluate the Undergraduate Engineering Mental Health Help‐Seeking Instrument (UE‐MH‐HSI).

Method

First, we adapted existing measures of mental health help‐seeking intention and mechanisms (i.e., attitudes, perceived norm: injunctive, perceived norm: descriptive, personal agency: autonomy, personal agency: capacity). Second, we coded qualitative interviews (N = 33) to create population‐specific mental health help‐seeking belief measures (i.e., outcome beliefs, experiential beliefs, beliefs about others' expectations, beliefs about others' behavior, beliefs about barriers and facilitators). Third, we tested the psychometric properties using data from 596 undergraduate engineering students at a historically White, research‐focused institution in southern United States.

Results

Psychometric analyses indicated that (1) help‐seeking mechanism and intention measures demonstrated unidimensionality, internal consistency, construct replicability, and sufficient variability; (2) mechanism measures demonstrated criterion evidence of validity; and (3) most items within the belief measures demonstrated sufficient variability and convergent evidence of validity.

Conclusions

The UE‐MH‐HSI is an evidence‐based tool for investigating mental health help‐seeking factors and their relationship to help‐seeking behavior, well‐being, academic success, and engineering identity formation. Guidelines for use are provided.
Overlapping group between non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic associated fatty liver disease better for liver research
Authors: Cheng Yu‐Ming , Hsieh Tsung‐Han , Wang Chia‐Chi , Kao Jia‐Horng
Published: October 2024

Aims

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) was proposed to replace “non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with new diagnostic criteria.” The group meeting these two diagnostic criteria is called “Overlapping Fatty Liver Disease (FLD).” Its clinical characteristics remain unknown.

Methods

This study included participants from the Taiwan Bio‐Bank database, where NAFLD was defined as hepatic steatosis in liver ultrasound, with exclusion of other known chronic liver diseases. MAFLD was defined as the presence of hepatic steatosis plus metabolic dysfunction, defined as having any of following three criteria: overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), or ≥2 metabolic risk abnormalities in lean/normal weight subjects. According to these two diagnostic criteria, three groups were identified: “overlapping FLD”, “NAFLD alone”, and “MAFLD alone.” NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS) >0.675 was defined as advanced liver fibrosis.

Results

Eight thousand thirty‐eight NAFLD participants (age 55.86 ± 10.12; males 41.07%) were included in the final analysis. Of them, “overlapping FLD” was diagnosed in 7377 (91.8%) and “NAFLD alone” in 661 (8.2%) participants. “Overlapping FLD” patients were older and had a higher percentage of male, worse metabolic profiles, higher NFS, and the percentage of carotid plaques was higher than those with “NAFLD alone.” Multivariate analysis showed age, hypertension, DM, and BMI were positively associated with advanced liver fibrosis in “overlapping FLD” patients.

Conclusions

“Overlapping FLD” is better for liver research due to identifying a high‐risk population among NAFLD patients. NAFLD definition introduces the heterogeneity through “NAFLD alone” group and MAFLD criteria overcome this limitation.
Healing justice in multicultural counseling
Authors: Salazar Beatriz , Hunter Alexis E. , Kirshner Ben , Lopez Solicia
Published: October 2024

Prioritizing healing for Latinx youth involves more than increased access to mental health resources. Community‐based educators are articulating a vision of healing justice that combines psychological healing and social change. In this paper, we draw on 2 years of collaborative community‐engaged co‐design with youth and young adults of color to propose a framework for healing justice in youth development and education spaces. We discuss the relevance of this healing justice paradigm for approaches to counseling Latinx youth.
Effectiveness and safety of polyethylene‐glycol‐4000 versus sodium picosulphate plus magnesium oxide and citric acid for bowel cleansing before colonoscopy in children: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Furio Silvia , Lucarini Alessio , Mennini Maurizio , Strisciuglio Caterina , Felici Enrico , Ferretti Alessandro , Parisi Pasquale , D'Angelo Francesco , Marasco Giovanni , Barbara Giovanni , Ricciardi Luca , Piccirillo Marisa , Di Nardo Giovanni
Published: October 2024

Colonoscopy is performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The quality of colonoscopy depends on adequate bowel cleansing. However, there is no standardized protocol for bowel preparation in children. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to estimate the effectiveness, safety, and tolerability profile of polyethylene glycol (PEG) compared with those of sodium picosulfate magnesium citrate (SPMC) in children. The primary sources of the reviewed studies were Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane Library. The databases were systematically searched for RCTs comparing PEG 4000 to SPMC as a bowel cleansing solution. Six studies were included. The analysis showed that both PEG and SPMC are effective for bowel cleansing, while a split‐dose regimen may be preferable to a day‐before one. There were no differences between the two groups regarding adverse events (AEs) such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and anal discomfort. Additionally, preparation with SPMC was preferred in terms of acceptability and compliance. Still, the need to place a nasogastric tube was significantly lower in the SPMC group compared to the PEG group and in the split dose regimen compared to the day before. In conclusion, PEG and SPMC are equally effective in obtaining an adequate bowel cleansing with a comparable AE rate; moreover, split‐dose administration may be preferable to day‐before one in terms of effective bowel cleansing. However, SPMC preparation is more acceptable seems to result in higher compliance, and to reduce the use of a nasogastric tube, that we encounter daily in clinical practice, is perceived as a stressful experience for children and their families.
Recent Trends in Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Peptide Antibiotics
Authors: Kilianova Zuzana , Cizmarova Ivana , Spaglova Miroslava , Piestansky Juraj
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobial peptides take a specific position in the field of antibiotics (ATBs), however, from a large number of available molecules only a few of them were approved and are used in clinics. These therapeutic modalities play a crucial role in the management of diseases caused by multidrug‐resistant bacterial pathogens and represent the last‐line therapy for bacterial infections. Therefore, there is a demand for a rationale use of such ATBs based on optimization of the dosing strategy to minimize the risk of resistance and ensure the sustainable efficacy of the drug in real clinical practice. Therapeutic drug monitoring, as a measurement of drug concentration in the body fluids or tissues, results in the optimization of the patient´s medication and therapy outcome. This strategy is beneficial and could result in tailored therapy for different types of infection and the prolongation of the use and efficacy of ATBs in hospitals. This review paper provides an actual overview of approved antimicrobial peptides used in clinical practice and covers current trends in their analysis by convenient and advanced methodologies used for their identification and/or quantitation in biological matrices for therapeutic drug monitoring purposes. Special emphasis is given to the methods with perspective clinical outcomes.
Barn owl site occupancy and breeding success in relation to land use and nest box characteristics
Authors: Milliet Estelle , Schalcher Kim , Grangier‐Bijou Anna , Almasi Bettina , Butera Fabrizio , Roulin Alexandre
Published: October 2024

Agricultural landscapes play a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity because of their widespread presence over the Earth and their ability to encompass diverse ecosystems. Recognizing this, numerous governments are incentivizing farmers through direct payments to adopt sustainable practices, such as managing extensive pastures and meadows, planting wildflowers, or establishing hedgerows. However, the benefit of such sustainable practices on vertebrate species is not well understood. From 2018 to 2020, we investigated nest occupancy, fledging success, and clutch size of a Swiss population of barn owls (Tyto alba) with respect to nest box characteristics and the presence of extensive agriculture and urbanization in areas surrounding nest boxes. Our results revealed that extensively used pastures were negatively associated with site occupancy but positively associated with clutch size. The proportion of urban areas was negatively related to both site occupancy and clutch size. The altitude of the nest box location was negatively correlated with occupancy, and the number of nest boxes placed at the same site (either 1 or 2) was positively correlated with site occupancy. Moreover, clutch size, but not fledging success, was larger in nest boxes placed outside barns than in nest boxes placed inside barns. Based on these findings, we recommend installing nest boxes at locations <700 m in altitude and in pairs on the same barn, incorporating biodiversity promotion areas into agricultural landscapes, and avoiding dense urban areas in favor of rural zones with lower urban density. Understanding the nuanced relationships between nest box characteristics, environmental factors, and breeding success provides valuable insights for optimizing artificial nesting sites and enhancing the overall reproductive success of barn owls.
Systemic Effects and Absorption of Subepithelial Dexamethasone Vocal Fold Injections
Authors: Alwan Mostafa , Phyland Debra J. , Smith Julian A. , Paddle Paul M.
Published: October 2024

Objective/Hypothesis

To compare the systemic changes following two office‐based procedures—subepithelial vocal fold steroid injections (VFSI) and vocal fold augmentation (VFA), and to characterize the magnitude and chronicity of the effects observed.

Study Design

Prospective, controlled before‐after comparative study.

Methods

Patients prospectively underwent VFSI with 0.8–2 mg of dexamethasone or VFA. Serum cortisol, white cell count (WCC), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were measured at day 0 (pre‐procedure), 1 and 7. Salivary cortisol was measured at baseline and daily for 7 days post‐procedure.

Results

Fourteen patients underwent VFSI and 36 VFA. At baseline serum cortisol measured 304.6 ± 116.6 nmol/L and fell significantly to 48.1 ± 41.8 nmol/L 1 day following dexamethasone injection (p = 0.001) and recovered by day 7 to 303.7 ± 78.7 nmol/L. Salivary cortisol demonstrated a similar pattern with significant recovery demonstrated by day 3 (p = 0.001). White cell counts were affected by the systemic absorption of exogenous steroid and normalized by day 7. Patients who underwent VFA demonstrated no significant change in their serum or salivary cortisol and no significant change in their WCC. No significant changes in CRP or patient's physiological parameters were observed in either procedure.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate systemic absorption of dexamethasone following VFSI, with acute hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis suppression which normalizes day 3 post‐procedurally.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 135:801–808, 2025
Quantifying Soil Loss in the Brazilian Savanna Ecosystem: Current Rates and Anticipated Impact of Climate Changes
Authors: Schwamback Dimaghi , Amorim Brandão Abderraman R. , Bertotto Luis Eduardo , Berndtsson Ronny , Zhang Linus , Wendland Edson , Persson Magnus
Published: October 2024

The Brazilian Savanna (Cerrado) is the second‐largest South American biome that corresponds to almost two‐third of the national agricultural production. Extensive agricultural‐driven land‐use changes have significantly altered the landscape, causing increased soil erosion. Furthermore, projections of climate change effects on the Cerrado raise concerns about the potential exacerbation of soil loss and its consequences on ecosystem sustainability. This study investigated soil loss for the Cerrado ecosystem by assessing current rates and projecting the potential effects of future climate change. Current soil loss was based on experimental plots (100 m2) during 7 years maintained under typical main land cover in Brazil (sugarcane, pasture, Cerrado, and bare soil). Erosivity, by using the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE), was estimated from observations, parameters of erodibility, and land cover. To assess the future soil loss (2100), we used the calibrated USLE equation with yearly erosivity derived from 12 downscaled and bias‐corrected SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5 scenarios of CMIP6 climate model projections. Current agricultural practices induce considerable erosion, where sugarcane has 3.4 times higher soil loss as compared with the natural soil cover. Regarding future SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5 scenarios (2100), we estimated an increase of 4.9% and 7.6% in soil loss, respectively, for all land covers. The observed soil loss rates underscore the critical importance of implementing sustainable land management practices to mitigate further soil degradation. Climate change may impose additional stress on the Cerrado ecosystem, amplifying the urgency for adaptive measures to safeguard this important biome.
A Facile Strategy for PEGylated Nanoprodrug of Bortezomib with Improved Stability, Enhanced Biocompatibility, pH‐Controlled Disassembly, and Release
Authors: Fu Naikuan , Zeng Yinan , Zhang Jing , Zhang Peng , Zhang Hong , Yang Shicheng , Zhang Jianhua
Published: October 2024

The therapeutic efficacy of bortezomib (BTZ) is often limited due to low solubility, poor stability in vivo and nonspecific toxicity. Herein, a kind of catechol‐functionalized polyethylene glycol (mPEG‐CA) is first synthesized and then mPEG‐CA is readily used to conjugate with BTZ by the formation of dynamic boronate bonds to obtain PEGlyated BTZ prodrug (mPEG‐CA‐BTZ) with the ability of pH‐controlled disassembly and drug release. The structure and morphology, physicochemical characteristics, drug loading, and release as well as in vitro cytotoxicity of mPEG‐CA‐BTZ nanoparticles are investigated in detail. The results demonstrated that mPEG‐CA‐BTZ can not only self‐assemble into nanostructures with uniform size and stable dispersion in physiological pH condition (pH 7.4) but also respond to the tumor acid microenvironment and achieve pH‐controlled BTZ release by acid‐triggered cleavage of boronate bonds, decomposition of mPEG‐CA‐BTZ and thus disassembly of mPEG‐CA‐BTZ nanoparticles. mPEG‐CA‐BTZ nanoparticles are expected to have great potential as a promising nanoplatform for pharmaceutical formulations of BTZ to increase therapeutic efficacy and decrease side effects of BTZ. Considering the easily available and biocompatible excipients and simple preparation process, the strategy designed herein provides a facile and promising approach to synergistically integrate the function of PEGylation and pH‐sensitiveness into boronic acid‐containing small molecule pharmaceutical agents.
Progress on the Sound Absorption of Viscoelastic Damping Porous Polymer Composites
Authors: Tang Xiaoning
Published: October 2024

Porous polymer composites (PPC) have developed rapidly recently, which are widely used in various industrial fields. Viscoelastic damping is an important behavior of porous polymer composites, and it can determine the sound absorption for noise reduction applications. This review has mainly covered the viscoelastic damping and sound absorption of porous polymer composites. Different fabrication approaches of porous polymer composites are gathered. The mechanism of viscoelastic damping behavior is described, and also the sound absorption properties. Followed by the introduction of enhanced sound absorption of viscoelastic damping porous polymer composites, including the incorporation of fillers, microstructures modification, combination with nanofibrous materials, and multilayer configuration, etc. The incorporated fillers can effectively adjust the interfacial area in composites, and obtain desired bonding conditions. Microstructures modification is an effective tool to improve the morphologies of both polymer matrix and fillers, which can be achieved by chemical treatment and surface coating. The combination with lightweight nanofibrous layer can increase the low frequency absorption. The configuration of multilayer composites can improve both acoustical and mechanical properties for engineering applications. It is hoped that this comprehensive review is benefit for the promising development of porous polymer composites in related fields.
Dynamic Micelle‐Hydrogels for 3D‐Architected Transition Metal Sulfides
Authors: Wang Zhenzhen , Zhou Xiaozhuang , Wu Junen , Wei Yimeng , Cui Yubo , Xia Yulong , Xu Weiming , Mu Shichun , Cui Jiaxi
Published: October 2024

Additive manufacturing of transition metal sulfides (TMS) enables the creation of complex 3D structures, significantly expanding their applications. However, preparing 3D‐structured TMS remains challenging due to difficulties in developing suitable inks. In this study, a supramolecular micelle hydrogel as the ink to fabricate 3D‐structured TMS is utilized. Initially, the hydrogels are printed and infused with metal salt solutions to stabilize the structures, which are then calcined to convert into miniaturized 3D‐TMS replicas. The micellar hydrogels crosslink via hydrophobic interactions, with sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDS) micelles providing both a hydrophobic environment and sulfur sources. During calcination, the decomposed sulfur precursors coordinate with metal ions to form various TMS, including FeS2, Cu2S, Ni3S2, and Co9S8, along with several metal sulfides like PbS and SnS. Additionally, the method also allows for the preparation of transition metal dichalcogenides such as MoS2 and WS2. The formation mechanism is demonstrated using Ni3S2 as an example which exhibits notable catalytic activity in oxygen evolution reactions (OER) and hydrogen evolution reactions (HER). Given its simplicity and versatility, this dynamic micellar hydrogel‐derived strategy offers a promising pathway for creating advanced TMS materials.
Cognitive Impact of β‐Amyloid Load in the Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder–Lewy Body Disease Continuum
Authors: Woo Kyung Ah , Yoon Eun Jin , Kim Seoyeon , Kim Heejung , Kim Ryul , Jin Bora , Lee Seungmin , Park Hyunwoong , Nam Hyunwoo , Kim Yu Kyeong , Lee Jee‐Young
Published: October 2024

Background

Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is linked to the diffuse‐malignant subtype and higher cognitive burden in Lewy body disease (LBD).

Objective

This study explores brain β‐amyloid deposition and its association with cognitive decline across the RBD–LBD continuum.

Methods

Patients with isolated RBD (iRBD), Parkinson's disease with probable RBD (PDRBD), and dementia with Lewy bodies with probable RBD (DLBRBD) underwent 18F‐florbetaben positron emission tomography, 3T magnetic resonance imaging scans, and comprehensive neuropsychological assessments. Subjects were categorized as cognitively normal (NC), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or dementia. Global and regional standardized uptake value ratios (SUVR) were estimated in predefined cognitive volumes of interest (VOI) derived from voxel‐wise comparison analysis among the cognitive groups, namely the prefrontal, parietal, precentral cortices, lingual gyrus, and supplementary motor area. Generalized linear models assessed the relationship between 18F‐florbetaben SUVRs and neuropsychological testing, adjusting for age and sex. Subgroup analysis focused on the polysomnography‐confirmed iRBD‐continuum subset (n = 41) encompassing phenoconverters and nonconverters in our prospective iRBD cohort.

Results

Eighty‐six subjects were classified as follows: 14 NC, 54 MCI, and 18 dementia. The proportion of positive β‐amyloid scans increased with advanced cognitive stages (P = 0.038). β‐Amyloid signals in cognitive VOIs were elevated in subgroups showing impairment in Trail‐Making Test B (TMT‐B). A linear association between TMT‐B z score and global cortical β‐amyloid levels was observed in the iRBD‐continuum subset (P = 0.013).

Conclusion

Cortical β‐amyloid accumulates with declines in executive function within the RBD–LBD continuum. TMT‐B performance may be a useful marker associating with β‐amyloid load, particularly in the iRBD population. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Identification of Pathogenic Copy Number Variants in Mexican Patients With Inherited Retinal Dystrophies Applying an Exome Sequencing Data‐Based Read‐Depth Approach
Authors: Fabian‐Morales Gerardo E. , Ordoñez‐Labastida Vianey , Garcia‐Martínez Froylan , Montes‐Almanza Luis , Zenteno Juan C.
Published: October 2024

Background

Retinal dystrophies (RDs) are the most common cause of inherited blindness worldwide and are caused by genetic defects in about 300 different genes. While targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has been demonstrated to be a reliable and efficient method to identify RD disease‐causing variants, it doesn't routinely identify pathogenic structural variant as copy number variations (CNVs). Targeted NGS‐based CNV detection has become a crucial step for RDs molecular diagnosis, particularly in cases without identified causative single nucleotide or Indels variants. Herein, we report the exome sequencing (ES) data‐based read‐depth bioinformatic analysis in a group of 30 unrelated Mexican RD patients with a negative or inconclusive genetic result after ES.

Methods

CNV detection was performed using ExomeDepth software, an R package designed to detect CNVs using exome data. Bioinformatic validation of identified CNVs was conducted through a commercially available CNV caller. All identified candidate pathogenic CNVs were orthogonally verified through quantitative PCR assays.

Results

Pathogenic or likely pathogenic CNVs were identified in 6 out of 30 cases (20%), and of them, a definitive molecular diagnosis was reached in 5 cases, for a final diagnostic rate of ~17%. CNV‐carrying genes included CLN3 (2 cases), ABCA4 (novel deletion), EYS, and RPGRIP1.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that bioinformatic analysis of ES data is a reliable method for pathogenic CNV detection and that it should be incorporated in cases with a negative or inconclusive molecular result after ES.
Rehabilitation Interventions for Adults With Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Pique Batalla Marc A. , Van de Winckel Ann , Walsh Nicola E. , Lewis Jennifer S.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This scoping review will explore the literature related to rehabilitation interventions for the treatment of adults living with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), describe the domains and outcome measures used to assess their effectiveness, and examine the neurophysiological bases of these interventions.

Introduction

The unremitting symptoms of CRPS, a chronic pain condition, are associated with long‐term disability, poor psychological health, decreased emotional and social well‐being, and reduced quality of life. Effective treatment for persistent symptoms is notoriously difficult. Therapeutic approaches such as graded motor imagery or pain exposure therapy are recommended for CRPS but show mixed results, insufficient effectiveness, variability in outcome measures, and unclear neurophysiological bases.

Inclusion Criteria

This review will consider studies that include any form of non‐invasive rehabilitation intervention delivered by a healthcare professional in any setting for adults with a CRPS diagnosis. Quantitative, qualitative and observational studies, text and opinion papers will be considered.

Methods

The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology will be used to conduct this scoping review. MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, APA PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane, OpenGrey Google and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global (ProQuest) will be searched for studies in English published between 2007 and 2024. Two independent reviewers will screen the titles, abstracts, and full texts of the selected studies. Data collection will be performed using a tool developed by the researchers based on the standardised JBI tool. Data will be presented in a comprehensive narrative summary.

Trail Registration: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/P967T
Decoding visceral adipose tissue molecular signatures in obesity and insulin resistance: a multi‐omics approach
Authors: Roy Dipayan , Ghosh Raghumoy , Ghosh Ritwik , Khokhar Manoj , Naing Ma Yin Yin , Benito‐León Julián
Published: October 2024

Objective

Obesity‐associated insulin resistance (IR) is responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality globally. Despite vast genomic data, many areas, from pathogenesis to management, still have significant knowledge gaps. We aimed to characterize visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in obesity and IR through a multi‐omics approach.

Methods

We procured data on VAT samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) for the following two groups: 1) populations with obesity (n = 34) versus those without (n = 26); and 2) populations with obesity and IR (n = 15) versus those with obesity but without IR (n = 15). Gene set enrichment, protein‐protein interaction network construction, hub gene identification, and drug‐gene interactions were performed, followed by regulatory network prediction involving transcription factors (TFs) and microRNAs (miRNAs).

Results

Interleukin signaling pathways, cellular differentiation, and regulation of immune response revealed a significant cross talk between VAT and the immune system. Other findings include cancer pathways, neurotrophin signaling, and aging. A total of 10 hub genes, i.e., STAT1, KLF4, DUSP1, EGR1, FOS, JUN, IL2, IL6, MMP9, and FGF9, 24 TFs, and approved hub gene‐targeting drugs were obtained. A total of 10 targeting miRNAs (e.g., hsa‐miR‐155‐5p, hsa‐miR‐34a‐5p) were associated with obesity and IR‐related pathways.

Conclusions

Our multi‐omics integration method revealed hub genes, TFs, and miRNAs that can be potential targets for investigation in VAT‐related inflammatory processes and IR, therapeutic management, and risk stratifications.

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Long‐term hematopoietic dysfunction in patients with large‐scale mitochondrial DNA deletion syndromes
Authors: Greenberg‐Kushnir Noa , Grossmann Liron D. , Barg Assaf Arie , Schiby Ginnete , Mardoukh Corine , Varda‐Bloom Nira , Marcu‐Malina Victoria , Anikster Yair , Gruber Noah , Lahav Einat , Bolkier Yoav , Bar Diana , Bielorai Bella , Toren Amos , Jacoby Elad
Published: October 2024

Background

Pearson syndrome (PS) and Kearns‐Sayre syndrome (KSS) are single large‐scale mitochondrial DNA deletion (SLSMD) syndromes. PS is characterized by severe, transient childhood cytopenia, whereas KSS typically manifests later in life without hematologic abnormalities. Despite distinct clinical presentations, both share a common mitochondrial DNA deletion. Recent observations suggest a potential link between PS progression and myeloid malignancy development, indicating that bone marrow failure (BMF) may be a key aspect of PS pathology and potentially universal across SLSMDs.

Methods

This study explores longitudinal hematological manifestations of SLSMD syndromes, focusing on bone marrow (BM) dysfunction.

Results

Sixteen patients with SLSMDs (13 PS and 3 KSS) were followed, of whom 75% experienced cytopenia, necessitating blood transfusions in 56%. Despite achieving transfusion independence at a median age of 24 months, persistent hematological abnormalities were noted. Comprehensive longitudinal BM studies were conducted in 62% of subjects and consistently revealed signs of marrow dysfunction, even without concurrent cytopenia. Median BM cellularity at a median age of four years and eight months was 50%, with histological signs of dyserythropoiesis, abnormal megakaryocytes, and signs suggesting myelodysplasia. Reduced CD34+ counts and BM colony‐forming unit capacity were noted, alongside chromosome 7 aberrations in 16% of patients on cytogenetic studies.

Conclusions

Our findings establish BM dysfunction as a persistent hallmark of SLSMD syndromes, posing a risk of clonal evolution and acquisition of chromosome 7 aberrations. This aligns with recent literature, emphasizing enduring BMF in SLSMD syndromes and advocating for tailored hematological monitoring guidelines for this unique patient cohort.
Reflections on 20 years of the Wilms Africa project: Lessons learned and the way forward
Authors: Israels Trijn , Borgstein Eric , Kamiza Steve , Mallon Brenda , Mavinkurve‐Groothuis Annelies M. C. , Kouya Francine , Balagadde Joyce , Bhakta Nickhill , Renner Lorna Awo , Ilbawi André , Masamba Leo , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Paintsil Vivian , Chagaluka George , Molyneux Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

Wilms tumour (WT) is one of the common and curable childhood cancer types included in the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC) to monitor progress. Local evidence is key to finding effective and sustainable solutions to local challenges to improve care and survival. Local evidence generated by the Wilms Africa project is summarised with recommendations for the future.
Influence of silane and polyethylene glycol functionalization of boron nitride nanosheets on mechanical and thermal properties of epoxy nanocomposites: Machine and deep learning forecasting
Authors: Varughese Jerrin Joy , M. S. Sreekanth
Published: October 2024

The influence of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanosheet surface modification on epoxy nanocomposites' mechanical and thermal properties were investigated. An innovative approach was developed for synthesizing hBN nanosheets (hBNNs) via optimized ultrasonic‐assisted liquid‐phase exfoliation (UALPE), followed by functionalization with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS) and polyethylene glycol (PEG600) for nanocomposite preparation. Compared to unmodified epoxy, nanocomposites containing 0.3 wt% of pristine hBNNs exhibited significant enhancements in flexural strength (125.28 MPa) and tensile strength (53.35 MPa), with respective increases of 40.57% and 43.23%. PEG‐hBNNs improved flexural and tensile strengths to 136.83 and 58.57 MPa, respectively. The most substantial enhancements were observed with APTS‐hBNNs, yielding flexural and tensile strengths of 174.13 and 63.53 MPa, reflecting increases of 95.37% and 70.50%, attributed to better interfacial interactions and a more effective crack deflection mechanism. Thermal stability analyses revealed superior performance of modified hBNNs epoxy nanocomposites, increasing 8.2°C and 6.3°C at 50 wt% degradation as compared to the unmodified system, owing to enhanced physical barrier properties. Structural and morphological analyses validated the successful exfoliation and modification of hBNNs. Predictive models utilizing machine and deep learning (DL) techniques, particularly DL with the adaptive moment estimation (ADAM) optimizer, effectively forecasted mechanical properties, achieving high R2 values.

HIGHLIGHTS

0.3 wt% modified hBNNs epoxy nanocomposite showed the highest mechanical strength

Improved thermal stability of epoxy nanocomposite by modification of hBNNs

Improved crack deflection mechanism in the presence of surface‐modified hBNNs

Deep learning with ADAM optimizer showed high R2 and low prediction loss
Aggregation/agglomeration dependent percolation threshold of spherical nanoparticles in electrically conductive polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Sharifzadeh Esmail , Ader Fiona
Published: October 2024

This study evaluated the percolation threshold in polymer nanocomposites and its dependence on the aggregation/agglomeration phenomenon. The main objective of the investigation was to propose a particular method that besides revealing the impact of different involved parameters on the percolation threshold could also provide useful information regarding the system characteristics. In line with that, a specific geometrical structure was employed to represent the clusters and assess the variation of the percolation threshold and characteristics of the polymer/particle interphase region. The findings were applied in an improved form of the percolation theory to perform validation against the related experimental data. Improvement was conducted by involving the impact of the newly estimated percolation threshold, aggregations/agglomerations, interphase region, and so forth. Also, specific theories were employed to define the electrical conductivity of the nanoparticle clusters and interphase region. The results showed that the percolation threshold is directly affected by the content of the nanoparticles and the characteristics of the aggregates/agglomerates. Besides, it was revealed that parameters, such as the size of nanoparticles, physical characteristics of the polymer matrix and interphase region, dispersion quality, etc. may substantially affect the percolation threshold and subsequently other physical properties of the system, such as electrical conductivity.

Highlights

A structural approach toward understanding the percolation phenomenon.

Defining the particular dependence of percolation threshold on dispersion quality.

Estimating the content of aggregates/agglomerates using percolation theory.

Improving the percolation theory to predict the electrical conductivity.

Applying the scaling theory to define the electrical conductivity of the interphase.