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Surimi products are favored by domestic and foreign consumers due to their distinctive gelatinous texture, rich nutrition, and convenient consumption. Gel properties are key evaluation indicators for the quality of surimi products, which was mainly determined by the gel‐forming ability of the myofibrillar protein (MP). In recent years, the surimi processing industry has faced challenges in product quality that limits the further development, and how to effectively improve the gel properties of surimi products has become one of the key scientific problems to be solved in surimi processing industry. A viable strategy for improving the product quality involves combining surimi with exogenous additives, such as proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids, to enhance the gel‐forming ability of MP. At present, there is limited literature review to systematically investigate the role of these exogenous additives in interacting with MPs in surimi gel system and their effect on the gel properties of heat‐induced surimi. Therefore, in this review, we systematically discussed the formation mechanism and influencing factors of surimi gel, the interactions of exogenous biomolecules (proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids) with surimi protein, as well as their effects on the gel properties of surimi product. The aim of this review was to help us with a better understanding for the intrinsic action mechanisms of complex surimi system and provide some theoretical guidance for the improvement of gel quality and development of surimi products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two recent high‐profile publications reported the formation of Heck‐type arylated alkenes catalysed by MeDalPhosAuCl/AgOTf (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2023, 145, 8810) and their cyclisation to tetralines (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2023, e202312786). It was claimed that these were the first demonstrations in gold catalysis of alkene insertion into Au‐aryl bonds, β‐H elimination and chain‐walking by Au−H dications. We show here that in fact this chemistry is a two‐stage process. Only the first step, the production of an alkyl triflate ester as the primary organic product by the well‐known alkene heteroarylation sequence, involves gold. The subsequent formation of Heck‐type olefins and their cyclisation to tetralines represent classical H+‐triggered carbocationic chemistry. These steps proceed in the absence of gold with identical results. Literature claims of new gold reactivity such as chain walking by the putative [LAuH]2+ dication have no basis in fact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Method Results Discussion Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterized by a severely restrictive diet leading to significant physical and/or psychosocial sequelae. Largely owing to the phenotypic heterogeneity, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are relatively unknown. Recently, the communication between microorganisms within the gastrointestinal tract and the brain—the so‐called microbiota‐gut‐brain axis—has been implicated in the pathophysiology of eating disorders. This Spotlight review sought to investigate and conceptualize the possible ways that the microbiota‐gut‐brain axis is involved in ARFID to drive future research in this area.By relating core symptoms of ARFID to gut microbiota and its signaling pathways to the brain, we evaluated how the gut microbiota is potentially involved in the pathophysiology of ARFID.We hypothesized that the restricted type and amount of food intake characteristic of ARFID diminishes gut microbial diversity, including beneficial bacteria and their metabolites capable of signaling to the brain, to modulate biopsychological pathways relevant to ARFID: homeostatic signaling, food reward, interoception, sensory sensitivity, disgust, perseveration, fear‐based learning, and mood. Candidate signaling mechanisms include microbial‐induced effects on inflammation, cortisol, and neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.Through reviewing the extant evidence, we conceptualized a new theoretical framework of ARFID with an emphasis on microbiota‐gut‐brain axis signaling to inform future research. Although more research is necessary to evaluate this theoretical model, the tentative evidence suggests that therapeutics specifically targeting the gut microbiota for the treatment of ARFID symptomatology warrants more investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TET2 is a critical gene that regulates DNA methylation, encoding a dioxygenase protein that plays a vital role in the regulation of genomic methylation and other epigenetic modifications, as well as in hematopoiesis. Mutations in TET2 are present in 7%–28% of adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Despite this, the precise mechanisms by which TET2 mutations contribute to malignant transformation and how these insights can be leveraged to enhance treatment strategies for AML patients with TET2 mutations remain unclear. In this review, we provide an overview of the functions of TET2, the effects of its mutations, its role in clonal hematopoiesis, and the possible mechanisms of leukemogenesis. Additionally, we explore the mutational landscape across different AML subtypes and present recent promising preclinical research findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thyrotoxicosis appears to be a predisposing factor for cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), which is a rare but important cause of stroke in young adults. The presentation of CVT is highly variable, ranging from a history of headaches (in the majority of cases) to deep coma, with the latter requiring invasive neurosurgical decompression. Although the long-term outcomes of CVT are favorable, multicenter cohort studies have shown that death may occur in up to 4% of cases in the acute phase and 8–10% of cases in the long term. It has been argued that the substantial decrease in mortality in patients with CVT that has been observed during the past few decades may be the result of an increased awareness of CVT among clinicians. Given that thyrotoxicosis is a risk factor for CVT, clinicians (and endocrinologists) should be alert to the possibility of CVT in patients with thyroid disease in order to prevent it whenever possible or treat it promptly. In this review, we provide an updated overview of the characteristics of patients with thyrotoxicosis who presented with CVT, the underlying mechanisms, and a few tips for clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer is a public health concern worldwide, characterized by increasing incidence and mortality rates, requiring novel and effective therapeutic strategies. Curcumin is a bioactive compound extracted from turmeric with several pharmacological activities. Curcumin is a multifaceted anticancer agent through mechanisms including the modulation of signaling pathways, inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and production of reactive oxygen species. However, the poor water solubility and bioavailability of curcumin create important barriers in its clinical application. This review elaborates on the therapeutic potential of curcumin in breast cancer treatment, focusing on the efficacy of different administration routes and synergistic effects with other therapeutic agents. The intravenous administration of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles significantly improves bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes compared to oral routes. Innovative formulations, such as nano-emulsifying drug delivery systems, have shown promise in enhancing oral bioavailability. While intravenous delivery ensures higher bioavailability and direct action on tumor cells, it is more invasive and expensive than oral administration. Advancing research on curcumin in breast cancer treatment is essential for improving therapeutic outcomes and enhancing the quality of life of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The efficacy of psychological interventions for bipolar disorder (BD) is well established, but much remains unknown about how change occurs. The primary objective of this exploratory study was to audit what is known about active components and mechanisms of action of psychological interventions for BD. Method: We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42022323276). Two independent reviewers screened references from four databases and extracted data from eligible studies. Results: We included four component studies, six studies with mediation analyses and 26 studies presenting subjective experiences of how psychological interventions bring change. Ten mediators were examined across six studies, with only one putative mediator, medication adherence, tested in more than one study. Some initial support for mediation of varied outcomes by control over thoughts, positive non‐verbal behaviour, self‐esteem, post‐trauma growth and medication adherence. Some preliminary support was found in two components, human support and IPT. Studies exploring participant experiences of therapeutic change enumerated a range of potential active components, mechanisms of action and contextual factors potentially warranting investigation in future research. However, the evidence base for active components and mechanisms of action in psychological interventions for BD is unsatisfactory. Findings were inconsistent, studies homogenous with significant methodological limitations and statistical approaches failed to meet quality criteria. Conclusions: Preliminary identification of potential components and mechanisms via qualitative analyses and the insights emerging from this review will inform future research aimed at investigating how psychological interventions work in BD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is highly prevalent in the Australian community, ranking amongst the highest globally. The consequences of AF are significant. Stroke, dementia and heart failure risk are increased substantially, hospitalisations are amongst the highest for all cardiovascular causes, and Australians living with AF suffer from substantial symptoms that impact quality of life. Australian research has made a significant impact at the global level in advancing the care of patients living with AF. However, new strategies are required to reduce the growing incidence of AF and its associated healthcare demand. The Australian Cardiovascular Alliance (ACvA) has led the development of an arrhythmia clinical theme with the objective of tackling major research priorities to achieve a reduction in AF burden across Australia. In this summary, we highlight these research priorities with particular focus on the strengths of Australian research and the strategies needed to move forward in reducing incident AF and improving outcomes for those who live with this chronic condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the demand for multifunctional optoelectronic devices rises, the integration of electrochromic and energy storage functionalities represents a cutting‐edge pursuit in the electrochromic devices domain. The realm of conductive polymer‐based electrochromic energy storage devices (EESDs) stands as a vibrant area marked by ongoing research and development. Despite a plethora of individual research articles exploring various facets within this domain, there exists a conspicuous dearth of comprehensive reviews systematically scrutinizing the advancements, challenges, and potentials intrinsic to these systems. To fill this void, this review systematically outlines the latest progressions in EESDs centered on conductive conjugated polymers (CPs). The review commences with a thorough exploration of the foundational principles underpinning EESDs, encompassing their operational mechanisms, device configurations, and representative key performance indicators. Furthermore, the review categorizes diverse conductive polymers, shedding light on the latest advancements in EESD research utilizing these specific CP variants. This in‐depth analysis centers on their collaborative role in shaping electrochromic energy storage devices. Overall, this review is poised to captivate the interest of researchers toward state‐of‐the‐art CP‐based EESDs, establishing these pioneering technologies as pivotal contenders in defining the forthcoming landscape of wearable electronics, portable devices, and advanced energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses endocrine disorders in adult patients with inherited metabolic diseases, emphasizing the importance of diagnosis and long-term management. It highlights the prevalence of endocrine complications in patients with inherited metabolic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, hypogonadism, adrenal insufficiency, and thyroid dysfunction. The study conducted at a tertiary referral center for endocrinology and inherited metabolic diseases reveals the need for specialized care and multidisciplinary approaches to address these complex health issues. The authors stress the significance of early detection, appropriate screening, and tailored management strategies for patients with inherited metabolic diseases and associated endocrine disorders. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives Method Results Conclusions The trauma and social pathways model of psychosis proposes interactions between trauma, attachment, social rank and dissociation in pathways to psychosis, though this model has yet to be empirically investigated. The primary aim of this study was to examine the overall predictive value of the trauma and social pathways model using regression analysis. A secondary aim was to delineate hypothesized pathways between trauma and positive symptoms of psychosis using serial mediation analysis.This was a cross‐sectional study of people attending mental health services for a psychosis‐related diagnosis (N = 71). Measures of trauma, positive symptoms of psychosis, attachment, social comparison and dissociation were completed.A model of recurrent trauma, insecure attachment, social rank and dissociation predicted 23.2% of the variance in positive symptoms of psychosis. Recurrent trauma, attachment and dissociation contributed significantly to the model, while social rank did not. Further, serial mediation analysis indicated that the sequence of disorganized attachment and dissociation fully mediated the relationship between recurrent trauma and positive symptoms.Results provide preliminary support for the trauma and social pathways model of psychosis, specifically as it relates to recurrent trauma, insecure attachment and dissociation. Results did not support the social rank component of this model, however. These findings provide clear targets for the development of next‐wave psychological interventions that focus on trauma‐related variables in psychosis. Future studies should replicate these findings with a larger clinical sample, and consider a measure of shame to further elucidate social processes in pathways to psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global reliance on fossil fuel combustion for energy production has contributed to the rising concentration of atmospheric CO2, creating significant global climate challenges. In this regard, direct air capture (DAC) of CO2 from the atmosphere has emerged as one of the most promising strategies to counteract the harmful effects on the environment, and the further development and commercialization of this technology will play a pivotal role in achieving the goal of net‐zero emissions by 2050. Among various DAC adsorbents, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) show great potential due to their high porosity and ability to reversibly adsorb CO2 at low concentrations. However, the adsorption efficiency and cost‐effectiveness of these materials must be improved to be widely deployed as DAC sorbents. To that end, this perspective provides a critical discussion on several types of benchmark MOFs that have demonstrated high CO2 capture capacities, including an assessment of their stability, CO2 capture mechanism, capture‐release cycling behavior, and scale‐up synthesis. It then concludes by highlighting limitations that must be addressed for these MOFs to go from the research laboratory to implementation in DAC devices on a global scale so they can effectively mitigate climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of adaptation to climate change lags behind necessary adaptation. Implementation of adaptation often takes place at the local level, influenced by local factors and mechanisms producing mainstreamed or standalone adaptation outcomes. Because mainstreaming adaptation is seen as accelerating adaptation, understanding this process is crucial for expediting its implementation. The lack of insight into the influence of context on mainstreaming and its respective outcomes hinders the transfer of lessons between different contexts. To address this gap, we investigate the question “Why do municipal policy processes lead to either standalone or mainstreamed adaptation implementation decisions?” We apply the Multiple Streams Framework to explain local adaptation implementation decisions to compare adaptation in Enschede and Zwolle, two Dutch adaptation frontrunners. We conclude that issue-linking with locally salient issues facilitates adaptation mainstreaming in a case without problem urgency, whereas a focusing event leads to standalone adaptation implementation if crisis-framing is applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeMethodsResultsConclusionTo describe the incidence, mechanisms, and clinical characteristics of patients diagnosed with traumatic iritis in a U.S. Midwestern county population.Retrospective population-based cohort of all residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota diagnosed with traumatic iritis from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2015. The medical records of patients with traumatic iritis were identified using the Rochester Epidemiology Project database, which contains virtually all medical care in the county. Medical records were reviewed for demographics, presentation, and follow-up data. Incidence rates were calculated per 100,000 per year.There were 156 incident diagnoses of traumatic iritis during the 10-year study period, yielding an age- and sex-adjusted incidence rate of 10.7 per 100,000 per year. Traumatic iritis disproportionately occurred in male (p < 0.001) and Black (p < 0.001) patients. The mean age of diagnosis was 33 years (range: 4–96 years), mean number of traumatic iritis-specific follow-up visits was 2.1 (range: 0–26), and median duration of traumatic iritis-specific follow-up was 11 days (range: 1 day-1.6 years). There were 155 (99.4%) patients with unilateral disease. The most frequent mechanisms of traumatic iritis were sports-related (N = 29, 18.6%), assault-related (N = 23, 14.7%), scratch (N = 22, 14.1%), and work-related (N = 21, 13.5%) injuries. The mean initial and final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of the affected eye was 20/40 and 20/30, respectively. Loss of follow-up was more frequently observed in Black patients (p < 0.001) and patients with smoking history (p = 0.004).Traumatic iritis was most frequently observed in younger males and Black patients. Common mechanisms included sports, assault, scratch, and work-related injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elucidating the speciation (in terms of concentration versus pH) and understanding the formation mechanisms of polyoxometalates remains a significant challenge, both in experimental and computational domains. POMSimulator is a new methodology that tackles this problem from a purely computational perspective. The methodology uses results from quantum mechanics based methods to automatically set up the chemical reaction network, and to build speciation models. As a result, it becomes possible to predict speciation and phase diagrams, as well as to derive new insights into the formation mechanisms of large molecular clusters. In this work we present the main features of the first open‐source version of the software. Since the first report [Chem. Sci. 2020, 11, 8448‐8456], POMSimulator has undergone several improvements to keep up with the growing challenges that were tackled. After four years of research, we recognize that the source code is sufficiently stable to share a polished and user‐friendly version. The Python code, manual, examples, and install instructions can be found at https://github.com/petrusen/pomsimulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Having a job is important for the well-being and inclusion of people with limited capability for work (LCW) due to physical and/or mental disability. This study explores salutogenic mechanisms that contribute to work-related sense of coherence (Work-SoC) of employees with LCW, i.e. perceiving their work in nature as manageable, comprehensible and meaningful. Semi-structured interviews (26 in total) were conducted with employees with LCW, employee supervisors, job coaches and foresters, all working in nature management. Interviews were held at four worksites of a governmental organisation in the Netherlands that provides permanent jobs for people with LCW. Employees with LCW contributed to the design and analysis of the study as co-researchers. Thematic analysis was used and member checks were carried out on preliminary findings. We identified six salutogenic mechanisms that contribute to nature-based Work-SoC of employees with LCW: (i) having constructive working relationships, (ii) experiencing structure and clarity, (iii) receiving practical and emotional support, (iv) support in the creation of meaning, (v) experiencing and learning in practice and (vi) physical activity and (absence of) stimuli. Identified mechanisms can create a positive effect when leveraged, thereby boosting (new) salutogenic mechanisms. Our findings illustrate that nature-based work can provide resources that promote Work-SoC of employees with LCW through the identified mechanisms. However, employees with LCW, colleagues, supervisors and stakeholders must recognize, mobilize and use these resources to leverage identified mechanisms in order to facilitate health-promoting workplaces for people with LCW. This, in turn, can contribute to sustainable inclusion through enablement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pandemic known as anti-microbial resistance (AMR) poses a challenge to contemporary medicine. To stop AMR's rise and quick worldwide spread, urgent multisectoral intervention is needed. This review will provide insight on new and developing treatment approaches for AMR. Future therapy options may be made possible by the development of novel drugs that make use of developments in "omics" technology, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Vaccines, immunoconjugates, antimicrobial peptides, monoclonal antibodies, and nanoparticles may also be intriguing options for treating AMR in the future. Combination therapy may potentially prove to be a successful strategy for combating AMR. To lessen the impact of AMR, ideas like drug repurposing, antibiotic stewardship, and the one health approach may be helpful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles, or TiO2 NPs, have shown potential in the fight against a range of diseases, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Doping metals with nanoparticles modify their size and magnetic characteristics by decreasing the energy band gap and mixing spins and electrical charges. Furthermore, it has been shown that owing to their higher surface-to-volume ratio and improved ability to interact with bacterial cells, smaller metal-doped nanoparticles have better antibacterial action. Due in large part to their production, TiO3-NPs have outstanding antifungal and antibacterial capabilities. The major mechanism of TiO3-NPs' antibacterial activity is their potent oxidizing capacity, which produces superoxide and hydroxyl anion radicals. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli are just a few of the pathogens against which TiO2 NPs have been shown to have antibacterial ability. Review topics will include the most recent discoveries in the sectors of water treatment, agriculture and medicine as well as the synthesis of TiO3- nanoparticles and their antimicrobial actions. TiO2 NPs as antibacterial agents: prospects and challenges will also be highlighted in the review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The SARS-CoV-2 virus that caused COVID-19 devastated families, social structures, and economies worldwide. This pandemic has overwhelmed healthcare systems, increased deaths and disabilities, and triggered a global socio-economic crisis. Although the COVID-19 vaccines were developed rapidly, their effectiveness significantly decreased by the end of 2021 due to mutated viruses evading the immune system. As a result, despite high vaccination rates in industrialized countries, significant outbreaks occurred due to immune evasion associated with viral mutations. Over 300 clinical studies have shown that vitamin D (and ivermectin) are widely available and economical agents that promote immune system function. Proper doses of vitamin D effectively prevent and treat SARS-CoV-2, reducing complications, hospitalizations, and deaths by approximately 50%. Those with vitamin D deficiency fare the worse. SARS-CoV-2 activates the renin-angiotensin system by increasing renin expression, leading to elevated levels of the inflammatogenic and vasoconstrictor peptide angiotensin-II. SARS-CoV-2 viruses cause widespread inflammation, blood clots, and lung damage through multiple mechanisms, leading to impaired tissue oxygenation and death. In addition to enhancing the immune system, vitamin D increases ACE-2 enzyme levels, which breaks down angiotensin-II and reduces SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation. It also lowers blood pressure and mitigates abnormal clotting. While the virus enters human cells through ACE-2 receptors, excess ACE-2 spills into the bloodstream and neutralizes viruses. This manuscript discusses how vitamin D mitigates the harmful effects of COVID-19. The interaction of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein with membrane-bound angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptors in epithelial cells facilitates viral entry into human cells. Despite this, ACE-2 exerts significant protective effects against coronaviruses by neutralizing viruses in circulation and mitigating inflammation. While SARS-CoV-2 reduces ACE-2 expression, vitamin D increases it, counteracting the virus's harmful effects. Vitamin D's beneficial actions are mediated through complex molecular mechanisms involving innate and adaptive immune systems. Meanwhile, vitamin D status [25(OH)D concentration] is inversely correlated with severity, complications, and mortality rates from COVID-19. This study explores mechanisms through which vitamin D inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication, including the suppression of transcription enzymes, reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, and increased expression of neutralizing antibodies and antimicrobial peptides. Both hypovitaminosis D and SARS-CoV-2 elevate renin levels, the rate-limiting step in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAS); it increases ACE-1 but reduces ACE-2 expression. This imbalance leads to elevated levels of the pro-inflammatory, pro-coagulatory, and vasoconstricting peptide angiotensin-II (Ang-II), leading to widespread inflammation. It also causes increased membrane permeability, allowing fluid and viruses to infiltrate soft tissues, lungs, and the vascular system. In contrast, sufficient vitamin D levels suppress renin expression, reducing RAS activity, lowering ACE-1, and increasing ACE-2 levels. ACE-2 cleaves Ang-II to generate Ang(1–7), a vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-thrombotic peptide that mitigates oxidative stress and counteracts the harmful effects of SARS-CoV-2. Excess ACE-2 molecules spill into the bloodstream as soluble receptors, neutralizing and facilitating the destruction of the virus. These combined mechanisms reduce viral replication, load, and spread. Hence, vitamin D facilitates rapid recovery and minimizes transmission to others. Overall, vitamin D enhances the immune response and counteracts the pathological effects of SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, data suggests that widely used anti-hypertensive agents—angiotensin receptor blockers and ACE inhibitors—may lessen the adverse impacts of SARS-CoV-2, although they are less potent than vitamin D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air and bone conduction thresholds are used to differentiate between conductive and sensori-neural hearing losses because bone conduction is thought to bypass the conductive apparatus, directly activating the inner ear. However, the suggested bone conduction mechanisms involve the outer and middle ears. Also, normal bone conduction thresholds have been reported in cases of lesions to the conduction pathway. Therefore, further investigation of bone conduction mechanisms is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis is a form of age-related, non-inflammatory, degenerative joint disease. It is characterized by pain, swelling, and bone hyperplasia; osteoarthritis has a high morbidity and high disability rate, which has a significant impact on the quality of life of patients worldwide. Engaging in sports has been demonstrated to reduce the risk of developing obesity, diabetes mellitus, and other metabolic diseases, additionally, it has been shown to enhance muscle quality, stabilize joints, improve motor coordination abilities, reduce pain, and improve joint function in individuals with osteoarthritis, these findings highlight the potential for sports to play an important role in the management of osteoarthritis. In this review, we presented an overview of the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis, provided a summary of advancements in the utilization of sports in the management of osteoarthritis, and discussed the underlying mechanisms and future application limitations, hoping to provide the foundation for the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When does a model explain? When does it promote understanding? A dominant approach to scientific explanation is the interventionist view. According to this view, when X explains Y, intervening on X can produce, prevent or alter Y in some predictable way. In this paper, I argue for two claims. First, I reject a position that many interventionist theorists endorse. This position is that to explain some phenomenon by providing a model is also to understand that phenomenon. While endorsing the interventionist view, I argue that explaining and understanding are distinct scientific achievements. Second, I defend a novel theory of scientific understanding. According to this view, when some model M promotes understanding, M makes available a distinctive mental state. This state is of the same psychological kind as when we grasp events in a narrative as bearing on some ultimate conclusion. To conclude, I show that, given this view, mechanistic explanations often provide a powerful source of understanding that many causal-historical models lack. This paper will be of interest to both philosophers of science and epistemologists engaged in the topics of explanation and understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This narrative review describes the current state of the literature that has examined associations between non‐sexual social touch (i.e., affectionate touch, touch therapies, touch with animals and inanimate objects that mimic social touch) and sleep quality. It also highlights areas for future research to clarify the links and to identify underlying mechanisms. Most existing studies have focussed on and shown positive effects of touch therapies (e.g., massage, therapeutic touch) on sleep quality in clinical populations. Although there are fewer studies examining how other forms of social touch are linked with sleep quality, the existing research provides preliminary evidence supporting affectionate touch (e.g., hugging, skin‐to‐skin contact) and tactile contact with animals (e.g., dogs) and objects that mimic social touch (e.g., robots, weighted blankets) as predictors of better sleep quality, while touch deprivation and touch aversion are associated with worse sleep quality. Informed by the existing literature, we additionally reviewed potential relational‐cognitive (e.g., felt‐security) and neurobiological (e.g., oxytocin) mechanisms likely to underlie associations between social touch and sleep quality. Overall, current research supports associations between non‐sexual social touch and sleep quality. However, future research is needed to establish these links for specific forms of social touch (and in various populations), to test explanatory mechanisms, and to identify boundary conditions. Understanding associations between non‐sexual social touch and sleep quality can inform the development of touch‐based interventions to improve sleep quality and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As our population ages, the medical challenges it faces become increasingly acute, with chronic kidney disease (CKD) becoming more prevalent among older adults. Frailty is alarmingly more common in CKD patients than in the general populace, putting the elderly at high risk of both physical and cognitive decline. CKD not only accelerates physical deterioration, but also heightens vascular dysfunction, calcification, arterial rigidity, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and cognitive impairment. Cognitive frailty, a distinct syndrome marked by cognitive deficits caused by physiological causes (excluding Alzheimer's and other dementias), is a critical concern. Although cognitive impairment has been well-studied, the molecular mechanisms driving cognitive frailty remain largely uncharted. Comprehensive interventions, including cutting-edge pharmaceuticals and lifestyle changes, are pivotal and effective, especially in the early stages of CKD. Recent research suggests that systematic exercise could counteract cognitive decline by improving brain blood flow, boosting neuroplasticity through the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and by triggering the release of neurotrophic factors such as insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). This review delves into the molecular pathways of cognitive frailty in CKD, identifies key risk factors, and highlights therapeutic approaches, particularly the potent role of exercise in enhancing cognitive health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been receiving a lot of attention from scientists and clinicians because it is an extremely common clinical condition. Due to its special hemodynamic changes, AF has a high rate of disability and mortality. So far, although AF has some therapeutic means, it is still an incurable disease because of its complex risk factors and pathophysiologic mechanisms, which is a difficult problem for global public health. Age is an important independent risk factor for AF, and the incidence of AF increases with age. To date, there is no comprehensive review on aging‐associated AF. In this review, we systematically discuss the pathophysiologic evidence for aging‐associated AF, and in particular explore the pathophysiologic mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere attrition, cellular senescence, disabled macroautophagy, and gut dysbiosis involved in recent studies with aging‐associated AF. We hope that by exploring the various dimensions of aging‐associated AF, we can better understand the specific relationship between age and AF, which may be crucial for innovative treatments of aging‐associated AF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevation‐dependent warming (EDW) has been a topic of intense debate due to limited observed data in global highland areas. This study aims to fill this gap by utilizing CRU and ERA5 datasets from 1981 to 2021 to explore the trends of climate change and its elevation dependency. The anomalies of temperature indicators (Tmean, Tmax, and Tmin) in both ERA5 and CRU showed significant warming trends over global highlands. Moreover, the response of temperature indicators to elevation across global highlands is not spatially uniform. The linear regression model based on the elevation showed significant warming signals for the temperature indicators at various elevations over the global highlands. On a regional scale, Tmean and Tmax predominantly showed linear EDW over EU highlands, while Tmean in Asian highlands exhibited EDW signals at 4–5 km. Tmin showed EDW at 2.5–5.5 km with ERA5 and 3–5 km with CRU. In the Andes, EDW was prominent at 2.5–4 km. Overall, EDW signals are evident in all studied regions but vary across them. While assessing the driving factors, the results of this study indicate that total column water vapour (TCWV), snow depth (SD), snow albedo, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) correlated positively with the temperature indicators. These findings emphasize the significance of elevation‐specific interactions between environmental factors and temperature in forecasting temperature changes in mountainous areas. Additionally, temperature exhibited coherence with teleconnection indices from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Asian and European (EU) highlands exhibited interzonal coherence with the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, while North American (NA) highlands showed coherence, followed by South American (SA) highlands. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of EDW and its implications for highland regions globally, including the potential for more severe depletion of snow/ice resources in a warmer future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is growing interest in the benefits of group models of antenatal care. Although clinical reviews exist, there have been few reviews that focus on the mechanisms of effect of this model. Methods: We conducted a realist review using a systematic approach incorporating all data types (including non-research and audiovisual media), with synthesis along Context-Intervention-Mechanism-Outcome (CIMO) configurations. Results: A wide range of sources were identified, yielding 100 relevant sources in total (89 written and 11 audiovisual). Overall, there was no clear pattern of 'what works for whom, in what circumstances' although some studies have identified clinical benefits for those with more vulnerability or who are typically underserved by standard care. Findings revealed six interlinking mechanisms, including: social support, peer learning, active participation in health, health education and satisfaction or engagement with care. A further, relatively under-developed theory related to impact on professional practice. An overarching mechanism of empowerment featured across most studies but there was variation in how this was collectively or individually conceptualised and applied. Conclusions: Mechanisms of effect are amplified in contexts where inequalities in access and delivery of care exist, but poor reporting of populations and contexts limited fuller exploration. We recommend future studies provide detailed descriptions of the population groups involved and that they give full consideration to theoretical underpinnings and contextual factors. Registration: The protocol for this realist review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO CRD42016036768). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in understanding skin aging mechanisms, which encompass both external and internal aging processes, have spurred the development of innovative treatments primarily aimed at improving cosmetic appearance. These findings offer the potential for the development of novel therapeutic strategies aimed at achieving long-term, non-therapy-dependent clinical benefits, including the reversal of aging and the mitigation of associated health conditions. Realizing this goal requires further research to establish the safety and efficacy of targeting aging-related skin changes, such as pigmentation, wrinkling, and collagen loss. Systematic investigation is needed to identify the most effective interventions and determine optimal anti-aging treatment strategies. These reviews highlight the features and possible mechanisms of skin aging, as well as the latest progress and future direction of skin aging research, to provide a theoretical basis for new practical anti-skin aging strategies. [Display omitted] • Skin aging is not only affected by genetic, and chronological but also by extrinsic (environmental). • Possible mechanisms and potential targets for aging-related skin changes were reported. • The latest progress and future development direction of skin aging research were conclusions. • The theoretical basis for new practical anti-skin aging strategies was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial antibiotic resistance has been recognized as a global threat to public health. It challenges the antibiotics currently used in clinical practice and causes severe and often fatal infectious diseases. Fighting against antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) is growing more urgent. While understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie resistance is a prerequisite, several major mechanisms have been previously proposed including bacterial efflux systems, reduced cell membrane permeability, antibiotic inactivation by enzymes, target modification, and target protection. In this context, this review presents a panel of promising and potential strategies to combat antibiotic resistance/resistant bacteria. Different types of direct-acting and indirect resistance breakers, such as efflux pump inhibitors, antibiotic adjuvants, and oxidative treatments are discussed. In addition, the emerging multi-omics approaches for rapid resistance identification and promising alternatives to existing antibiotics are highlighted. Overall, this review suggests that continued effort and investment in research are required to develop new antibiotics and alternatives to existing antibiotics and translate them into environmental and clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) is a strong oxidizing agent and an efficient disinfectant. Due to its broad-spectrum bactericidal properties, good inactivation effect on the vast majority of bacteria and pathogenic microorganisms, low resistance to drugs, and low generation of halogenated by-products, chlorine dioxide is widely used in fields such as water purification, food safety, medical and public health, and living environment. This review introduced the properties and application status of chlorine dioxide, compared the action mode, advantages and disadvantages of various disinfectants. The mechanism of chlorine dioxide inactivating bacteria, fungi and viruses were reviewed. The lethal target of chlorine dioxide to bacteria and fungi is to destroy the structure of cell membrane, change the permeability of cell membrane, and make intracellular substances flow out, leading to their death. The lethal targets for viruses are the destruction of viral protein capsids and the degradation of RNA fragments. The purpose of this review is to provide more scientific guidance for the application of chlorine dioxide disinfectants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Companies are looking for opportunities from digital technologies focused on transforming their operations and customer value proposition. IoT solution is a way to develop new services and business models (BM). Literature highlights that research is necessary to discover empirical patterns and tools for understanding and managing digital Innovation adopted by companies. Thus, this study aims to explore how organisations move into an Internet of things (IoT) environment by structuring new business models and offering innovative and sustainable services identifying mechanisms for deploying IoT BM. This research uses a multiple case study approach with three manufacturing organisations. The contribution of this study is the identification of mechanisms applied for developing an IoT business model. Companies altering model operations and reshaping customer value propositions for building new business models are facilitated by digital transformation. The findings provide mechanisms identified across cases: collaboration via strategic partnerships, incubator companies, acquisition of the startup, exchange knowledge/employee training, Co-innovation: interactions between actors to develop platforms and partnership with Technology Parks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, refers to a condition where individuals continue to experience a range of symptoms weeks to months after the acute phase of COVID-19 has resolved. While respiratory symptoms are commonly associated with COVID-19, emerging evidence suggests that neurological manifestations play a significant role in the long-term effects of the disease. This article explores the neurological basis of long COVID, delving into the various symptoms, pathophysiological mechanisms, impact on cognitive function, neuroimaging findings, current treatment approaches, long-term prognosis, and future research directions in understanding and managing the neurological sequelae of long COVID. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Methods Results Conclusion PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Coaching is proposed as a core enabling skill of occupational therapy and increasingly suggested for a diverse range of health populations. In recent years, research on coaching has proliferated, emerging from within and outside of occupational therapy. Yet, concern has been raised about the absence of theoretical underpinning and diversity of descriptions of coaching in occupational therapy, as well as low‐quality evidence supporting its effectiveness. The aim of this study is to map the use of coaching by occupational therapists from 2007 to 2022 to identify the populations, settings and outcomes it is applied to, differences between coaching interventions and evidence supporting its use.This systematic scoping review applied Arksey and O'Malley's five‐stage methodological framework with further methodological direction using the Levac framework. There was no consumer involvement in undertaking this review.Findings from 60 research publications on coaching indicate its use with populations across the lifespan in primarily community settings to improve occupational performance, participation and self‐efficacy. A wide range of coaching interventions are designed or used by occupational therapists, with Occupational Performance Coaching being the most researched (16/27, 59% of named interventions). Common elements of coaching interventions included collaborative goal setting and problem‐solving; however, a lack of described theory or coaching methods persists. High‐quality study designs indicate its effectiveness; however, an absence of fidelity definition or monitoring limits interpretation of many studies.The language of coaching is becoming common practice within occupational therapy, and evidence indicates effectiveness of some coaching interventions. Advances in coaching research and use by occupational therapists will be aided by an explicit statement of the theoretical basis for coaching interventions, with congruent coaching methods, mechanisms and outcomes stated.This scoping review maps the use of coaching by occupational therapists in current published research. Key aspects of coaching examined include how coaching is defined, who it is used with and how effective it is. The kinds of outcomes that coaching is intended to improve are also reported. From 633 publications, 60 research publications were fully analysed. The use of coaching by occupational therapists has grown rapidly over the past 10 years. Strong evidence of its effectiveness exists for achieving the personal goals of people receiving occupational therapy when goals describe changes in everyday life activities. Coaching is being used with people across the lifespan with a variety of disabilities and chronic conditions and their caregivers/parents, most commonly parents of children with developmental issues. The key features of coaching interventions used by occupational therapists include collaborative goal setting, shared problem‐solving and client‐led action planning. Some elements of coaching are also used within other interventions with a wider range of methods. Coaching is believed to work by supporting an individual's self‐belief that they can make changes. Theories that underpin coaching vary but commonly focus on self‐determination, behaviour change and occupational therapy theory. However, many of the coaching interventions do not describe any theoretical basis nor coaching methods in detail. Future research on coaching in occupational therapy should ensure a clear explanation of the theory that underpins it, coaching methods and monitoring of how well coaching is applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Internet gaming disorder (IGD), recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), significantly impacts adolescent mental and physical health. With a global prevalence of 3.05%, rates are higher in Asia, especially among adolescents and males. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated IGD due to increased gaming time from isolation and anxiety. Vulnerable groups include adolescents with poor academic performance, introverted personalities, and comorbid mental disorders. IGD mechanisms remain unclear, lacking prospective research. Based on Skinner's reinforcement theory, the purpose of this study is to explore the mechanisms of IGD from individual and environmental perspectives, incorporating age-related changes and game features, and to develop intelligent monitoring models for early intervention in high-risk adolescents. Methods: This prospective cohort study will investigate IGD mechanisms in middle and high school students in Shenzhen, China. Data will be collected via online surveys and Python-based web scraping, with a 3-year follow-up and assessments every 6 months. Unstructured data obtained through Python-based web scraping will be structured using natural language processing techniques. Collected data will include personal characteristics, gaming usage, academic experiences, and psycho-behavioral-social factors. Baseline data will train and test predictive models, while follow-up data will validate them. Data preprocessing, normalization, and analysis will be performed. Predictive models, including Cox proportional hazards and Weibull regression, will be evaluated through cross-validation, confusion matrix, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, area under the curve (AUC), and root mean square error (RMSE). Discussion: The study aims to understand the interplay between individual and environmental factors in IGD, incorporating age-related changes and game features. Active monitoring and early intervention are critical for preventing IGD. Despite limitations in geographic scope and biological data collection, the study's innovative design and methodologies offer valuable contributions to public health, promoting effective interventions for high-risk individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Models of heat transport in solids, being based on idealized elastic collisions of gas molecules, are flawed because heat and mass diffuse independently in solids but together in gas. To better understand heat transfer, an analytical, theoretical approach is combined with data from laser flash analysis, which is the most accurate method available. Dimensional analysis of Fourier's heat equation shows that thermal diffusivity (D) depends on length-scale, which has been confirmed experimentally for metallic, semiconducting, and electrically insulating solids. A radiative diffusion model reproduces measured thermal conductivity (K = DρcP = D × density × specific heat) for thick solids from ~0 to >1200 K using idealized spectra represented by 2–4 parameters. Heat diffusion at laboratory temperatures (conduction) proceeds by absorption and re-emission of infrared light, which explains why heat flows into, through, and out of a material. Because heat added to matter performs work, thermal expansivity is proportional to ρcP/Young's modulus (i.e., rigidity or strength), which is confirmed experimentally over wide temperature ranges. Greater uptake of applied heat (e.g., cP generally increasing with T or at certain phase transitions) reduces the amount of heat that can flow through the solid, but because K = DρcP, the rate (D) must decrease to compensate. Laser flash analysis data confirm this proposal. Transport properties thus depend on heat uptake, which is controlled by the interaction of light with the material under the conditions of interest. This new finding supports a radiative diffusion mechanism for heat transport and explains behavior from ~0 K to above melting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthetic pyrethroid pesticide fenpropathrin (FEN) is extensively used worldwide and has frequently been detected in biota and the environment, whilst the negative effects and toxicological mechanisms of FEN on non-target organisms are still unknown. In the present study, healthy immature common carp were treated with FEN (0.45 and 1.35 μg/L) for a duration of 14 days, and the negative impacts and possible mechanisms of FEN on fish were investigated. Biochemical analyses results showed that FEN exposure altered the levels of glucose (GLU), total cholesterol (T-CHO), triglyceride (TG), albumin (ALB), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) in carp serum, and caused histological injury of the liver and kidney, indicating that FEN may cause hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in carp. In addition, FEN also altered the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in carp serum, upregulated the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and elevated the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver and kidney. Meanwhile, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels were also upregulated, indicating that oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction may be involved in the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity caused by FEN. Furthermore, RNA-seq analysis results revealed that FEN treatment induced a diverse array of transcriptional changes in the liver and kidney and downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were concentrated in multiple pathways, especially cell cycle and DNA replication, suggesting that FEN may induce cell cycle arrest of hepatocytes and renal cells, subsequently inducing hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Overall, the present study enhances our comprehension of the toxic effects of FEN and provides empirical evidence to support the risk assessment of FEN for non-target organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The α‐hydroxy‐β‐dicarbonyl motif is essential in many biologically active compounds, sparking significant interest in their synthesis. This review comprehensively examines the advancements in the α‐hydroxylation of β‐dicarbonyl compounds, systematically categorizing the methods based on the types of oxidants employed and highlighting advances in asymmetric α‐hydroxylation. It evaluates the substrate scope, advantages, and disadvantages of each approach, summarizing the possible intermediates involved and the types of reaction mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. The development of PD is closely linked to genetic and environmental factors, with GBA1 variants being the most common genetic risk. Mutations in the GBA1 gene lead to reduced activity of the coded enzyme, glucocerebrosidase, which mediates the development of PD by affecting lipid metabolism (especially sphingolipids), lysosomal autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum, as well as mitochondrial and other cellular functions. Clinically, PD with GBA1 mutations (GBA1-PD) is characterized by particular features regarding the progression of symptom severity. On the therapeutic side, the discovery of the relationship between GBA1 variants and PD offers an opportunity for targeted therapeutic interventions. In this review, we explore the genotypic and phenotypic correlations, etiologic mechanisms, biomarkers, and therapeutic approaches of GBA1-PD and summarize the current state of research and its challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Much remains unknown about how complex community-based programmes can successfully achieve long-term impact. More insight is needed to understand the key mechanisms through which these programmes work. Therefore, we conducted an in-depth study in five communities that implemented the Healthy Youth, Healthy Future (JOGG) approach, a Dutch community-based obesity prevention programme. We aimed to identify perceived outcomes and long-term impacts among local stakeholders and explore potential causal pathways and working mechanisms. Methods: We used ripple effects mapping (REM), a qualitative participatory method to map outcomes and identify causal pathways, in five communities. We involved 26 stakeholders, professionals and policy-makers affiliated with the local JOGG approach, spread over eight REM sessions and conducted individual interviews with 24 additional stakeholders. To uncover working mechanisms, we compared outcomes and causal pathways across communities. Results: Over 5–9 years of implementation, participants perceived that JOGG had improved ownership of local stakeholders, health policies, intersectoral collaboration and social norms towards promoting healthy lifestyles. Causal pathways comprised small initial outcomes that created the preconditions to enable the achievement of long-term impact. Although exact JOGG actions varied widely between communities, we identified five common working mechanisms through which the JOGG approach contributed to causal pathways: (1) creating a positive connotation with JOGG, (2) mobilizing stakeholders to participate in the JOGG approach, (3) facilitating projects to promote knowledge and awareness among stakeholders while creating successful experiences with promoting healthy lifestyles, (4) connecting stakeholders, thereby stimulating intersectoral collaboration and (5) sharing stakeholder successes that promote healthy lifestyles, which gradually created a social norm of participation. Conclusions: The JOGG approach seems to work through activating initial stakeholder participation and bolstering the process towards ownership, policy change, and intersectoral collaboration to promote healthy lifestyles. Key working mechanisms can inform further development of JOGG as well as other complex community-based prevention programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moringa oleifera, a widely recognized plant more commonly known as moringa, has obtained significant research interest in recent years due to its prospective physiological advantages, including its claimed ability to counteract carcinogenesis. The moringa plant has been found to possess bioactive components that exhibit promising anticancer activities against different human cancers, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, etc. The cytotoxic properties of moringa seed extracts on cancerous cells have also been provided in this paper along with other notable health benefits. The extracts derived from moringa seeds inhibit cancer proliferation and promote cancer cell apoptosis through multiple signaling pathways. They also stimulated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and subsequently induced caspase‐3 activity. The impact of moringin and avenanthramide 2f on the stimulation of caspases 2, 4, 8, and 9 results in reduction in the proliferation of cancer cells. The results reported by research studies hold significant implications for identifying and targeting specific molecular entities that could serve as potential therapeutic targets in search of effective cancer treatments. Furthermore, the flavonoids in moringa seed can remove mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, protecting beta cells and bringing hyperglycemia under control. M. oleifera seed oil can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases via reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) formation and modulation of cardiac superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity. This article provides a comprehensive summary of the noteworthy discoveries derived from a rigorous investigation that explored into the impact of moringa seeds on the prevention/reduction of various cancers and other complex diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 )is still spreading widely around the world, and it is estimated that there are more than 760 million confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) . Although most of the infected patients can be cured, there are still many patients who experience persistent clinical symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, weakness, coughing and chest pain, etc. at two to three months or even longer after being infected with SARS-CoV-2. Internationally, this type of discomforts is referred to as long COVID. The emergence of long COVID has brought a new crisis to people’s health, which not only affects the quality of life and work of patients, but also brings great pressure on the health care of the society. Continuously exploring the impact of long COVID and its underlying mechanism, developing health management strategies for long COVID, and better prevention and treatment of long COVID are still the focus of research worldwide. The article introduces the definition of long COVID and reviews recent research progress in its underlying mechanism, common systemic clinical manifestations, risk factors, and health management of long COVID, aiming to provide more ideas for deepening clinicians’ understanding of long COVID. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders worldwide, affecting approximately 280 million people, with probably much higher unrecorded cases. Depression is associated with symptoms such as anhedonia, feelings of hopelessness, sleep disturbances, and even suicidal thoughts. Tragically, more than 700 000 people commit suicide each year. Although depression has been studied for many decades, the exact mechanisms that lead to depression are still unknown, and available treatments only help a fraction of patients. In the late 1960s, the serotonin hypothesis was published, suggesting that serotonin is the key player in depressive disorders. However, this hypothesis is being increasingly doubted as there is evidence for the influence of other neurotransmitters, such as noradrenaline, glutamate, and dopamine, as well as larger systemic causes such as altered activity in the limbic network or inflammatory processes. In this narrative review, we aim to contribute to the ongoing debate on the involvement of serotonin in depression. We will review the evolution of antidepressant treatments, systemic research on depression over the years, and future research applications that will help to bridge the gap between systemic research and neurotransmitter dynamics using biosensors. These new tools in combination with systemic applications, will in the future provide a deeper understanding of the serotonergic dynamics in depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Anthracycline drugs, as a class of commonly used antitumor chemotherapeutics, play a significant role in the treatment of various cancers. However, they possess notable cardiotoxicity, which seriously undermines the quality of life for cancer patients. Therefore, early monitoring and mitigation of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity (AIC) have become urgent clinical issues to address. This study summarizes the mechanisms of AIC, encompassing oxidative stress, apoptosis, cardiac microenvironment remodeling, ferroptosis, and autophagy. Meanwhile, we have discovered that in addition to traditional medical imaging techniques that can monitor cardiotoxicity, emerging diagnostic tools such as advanced imaging technologies and human induced pluripotent stem cells demonstrate immense potential for early identification of subclinical toxicity and timely pharmacological intervention prior to the occurrence of irreversible cardiac damage. In terms of prevention and treatment of AIC, on the one hand, we can select appropriate drugs based on the molecular mechanisms of AIC to reduce cardiotoxicity. On the other hand, we can use derivatives with lesser cardiotoxicity, such as liposomes and nanoparticles, to prevent AIC, thereby improving the prognosis of cancer patients. Anthracyclines represent a highly efficacious class of chemotherapeutic agents employed extensively in antitumor therapy. They are universally recognized for their potency in treating diverse malignancies, encompassing breast cancer, gastrointestinal tumors, and lymphomas. Nevertheless, the accumulation of anthracyclines within the body can lead to significant cardiac toxicity, adversely impacting both the survival rates and quality of life for tumor patients. This limitation somewhat restricts their clinical utilization. Determining how to monitor and mitigate their cardiotoxicity at an early stage has become an urgent clinical problem to be solved. Therefore, this paper reviews the mechanism of action, early monitoring, and strategies for the prevention of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity for clinical reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The last few decades have seen striking changes in the field of food allergy. The prevalence of the disease has risen dramatically in many parts of the globe, and management of the condition has undergone major revision. While delayed introduction of common allergenic foods during infancy was advised for many years, the learning early about peanut allergy (LEAP) trial and other studies led to a major shift in infant feeding practices, with deliberate early introduction of these foods now recommended. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration approved the first treatment for food allergy in 2020—a peanut oral immunotherapy (OIT) product that likely represents just the beginning of new immunotherapy‐based and other treatments for food allergy. Our knowledge of the environmental and genetic factors contributing to the pathogenesis of food allergy has also undergone transformational advances. Here, we will discuss our efforts to improve the clinical care of patients with food allergy and our understanding of the immunological mechanisms contributing to this common disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High Andean lizards in the Andes face numerous challenges in high‐altitude environments characterized by significant temperature, spatial and temporal variations. These factors greatly influence their thermal characteristics and adaptive strategies for coping with temperature fluctuations. This study aims were to investigate the thermal biology of high mountain lizards (>2000 m) inhabiting the Andes Mountain range, using information from existing literature, and to identify the potential impacts of the original climate change scenarios developed in this study. Within the Andes, high‐altitude species are primarily found in families like Liolaemidae, Gymnophthalmidae, Tropiduridae, Anolidae and Leiourisauridae. Notably, we found in the literature that the higher body temperatures and maximum critical temperatures in southern species compared to those closer to the tropics. Typically, diurnal and seasonal temperature variations have a significant impact on the body temperature of these high‐altitude lizards, but their adaptive behaviours and physiological mechanisms enhance their resistance to extreme temperatures. Populations situated below the equator often exhibit higher body temperatures and maximum critical temperatures, largely due to their exposure to higher ambient temperatures during summer. With all global warming scenarios indicating temperature increases in latitudinal regions, tropical high‐altitude lizards, historically less thermally adaptable, may be particularly susceptible to these temperature rises. It is crucial to consider that additional factors, such as species activity patterns, thermal resource availability and diminishing suitable thermal habitats, will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these lizard species, making the situation even more complex and challenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The administration of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplements is recommended as an adjuvant therapy for adults diagnosed with major depressive disorder. The evaluation of replicated data in combination treatment with omega-3 has been extensively conducted in adults over the past decade. However, the generalizability of these findings to pediatric groups is still uncertain. The objectives of this evaluation were twofold: (1) to evaluate the effectiveness of omega-3 and associated combination therapies in reducing the severity of depressive symptoms, and (2) to include remission rates (i.e., reduction of more than 50% in depression symptoms) as a measure of therapeutic efficacy. Methods: We conducted a literature search on PubMed/EMBASE from inception to October 2023. Data analyses were conducted using Stata (version 17.0). Results: We identified a total of 3168 articles. After eligibility screening of identified studies, nine studies (n = 561 participants) were included in our analysis herein. Pairwise comparisons revealed no significant improvement in depression symptoms for any intervention versus placebo. However, a clustered ranking plot identified omega-3 plus inositol as the most effective treatment for pediatric depression (77.3% efficacy). Omega-3 paired with psychoeducational psychotherapy significantly lowered the remission rate compared to placebo (standardized mean difference = 0.44, 95% confidence interval: 0.00–0.87, p = 0.048), resulting in a 91.5% remission rate, making it the most effective treatment in the study. Conclusions: Taken together, this network meta-analysis presents compelling evidence supporting the antidepressant effects of omega-3 in pediatric groups with depression. Future research should aim to investigate omega-3 as monotherapy for young individuals with depression, as well as investigate the efficacy of omega-3 in comparison to psychosocial interventions for affected individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of the construction industry worldwide, a large amount of waste concrete is generated each year, which has caused serious environmental problems. As a green and sustainable building material, thermally activated recycled cement (RC) has received widespread attention. However, the unique properties of RC, such as the high water demand and short setting time, necessitate the use of specialized superplasticizers that are different from those used in ordinary Portland cement. As an important component for the application of RC, superplasticizer has an important impact on the performance modification of RC. This article summarizes the recent research progress of potential superplasticizers for RC, with a view to providing a reference for the research and application of superplasticizers for RC. Based on the differences between ordinary Portland cement and RC, the paper discusses potential superplasticizers that may be suitable for RC, and points out that future development of potential modified superplasticizers can include altering the molecular structure to improve adsorption onto the surfaces of RC or to enhance the durability of concrete with RC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research demonstrates that young people value mental health support that is tailored to their needs and preferences, rather than a "one size fits all" offer, which is often not equitably accessible (National Children's Bureau, 2021). Understanding young people's lived experiences across different sociocultural contexts is important. The aim of this research was to conduct an international qualitative study on the views of young people with lived experience and professionals, on proposed aspects of personalised support for anxiety and/or depression. Participatory action focus groups were conducted with N = 120 young people with lived experience of anxiety and/or depression (14–24 years) and with N = 63 professionals in Brazil, India, Kenya, Pakistan, Portugal, South Africa, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. Data were analysed using the rigorous and accelerated data reduction (RADaR) technique. Overall, although some country-specific differences were found in terms of what aspects of support young people found to be most important, individual preferences were considered stronger, furthering the view that support should be personalised to the needs of the individual young person. Young people experiencing anxiety and/or depression should be able to choose for themselves which aspects of support they would prefer in their own care and support plans, with families and mental health professionals providing guidance where appropriate, rather than removing the young person from the decision-making process altogether. It should also be ensured that the aspects of personalised support can be understood by young people and professionals from different contexts, including marginalised and minoritised groups and communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supersulfated cements (SSCs), as potential green alternatives to Portland cements, are in demand for developing new kinds of precursors instead of blast-furnace slag. A mixture of kaolin, quartz and sodium hydroxide was calcined to prepare SSC by grinding clinkers with lime and gypsum. Preparation factors were investigated and multiple characterisation methods were adopted to explore the calcination and hydration mechanisms. The sodium hydroxide additive was found to reduce the activation temperature of the kaolin and a moderate addition of sodium hydroxide improved the compressive strength of SSC made from calcined kaolin. Quartz added into the kaolin calcined with a moderate amount of sodium hydroxide also promoted the compressive strength. Comprehensive characterisations indicated that the alkali-added calcination of the kaolin generated pozzolanic zeolite and sodium aluminosilicates along with inert nepheline at a calcination temperature ≤950°C. The hydration of SSC pastes tended to produce C(N)–A–S–H/N(C)–A–S–H gels and crystalline ettringite. During sodium hydroxide-added calcination, quartz added into the kaolin hindered the generation of inert nepheline and produced cementitious N–S gels. The research facilitates the utilisation of the massive discharged coal gangues rich in kaolinite and quartz by synthesising SSCs economically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper I argue that the attempts by science studies to identify epistemic effects of new governance instruments have largely failed. I suggest two main reasons for this failure. The first reason is that neither quantitative nor qualitative studies of effects of governance instruments meet the respective methodological standards for establishing causality. While much of this could be repaired, the second reason is more severe: given the complex causal web between governance and knowledge production and the multi-level nature of causation, a strategy that starts from a particular governance instrument and tries to identify its effects cannot work. I propose to reverse this strategy by starting from the observation of epistemic change and applying a strategy of "causal reconstruction" (Mayntz), which identifies the causes of this epistemic change and among them the contribution by governance. This approach has the advantage of starting from well-identified change. Challenges posed by the new approach include the empirical identification of epistemic change and the need to integrate sociological methods in science policy studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]