Attojoule Hexagonal Boron Nitride-Based Memristor for High-Performance Neuromorphic Computing.

In next-generation neuromorphic computing applications, the primary challenge lies in achieving energy-efficient and reliable memristors while minimizing their energy consumption to a level comparable to that of biological synapses. In this work, hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN)-based metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) memristors operating is presented at the attojoule-level tailored for high-performance artificial neural networks. The memristors benefit from a wafer-scale uniform h-BN resistive switching medium grown directly on a highly doped Si wafer using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), resulting in outstanding reliability and low variability. Notably, the h-BN-based memristors exhibit exceptionally low energy consumption of attojoule levels, coupled with fast switching speed. The switching mechanisms are systematically substantiated by electrical and nano-structural analysis, confirming that the h-BN layer facilitates the resistive switching with extremely low high resistance states (HRS) and the native SiOx on Si contributes to suppressing excessive current, enabling attojoule-level energy consumption. Furthermore, the formation of atomic-scale conductive filaments leads to remarkably fast response times within the nanosecond range, and allows for the attainment of multi-resistance states, making these memristors well-suited for next-generation neuromorphic applications. The h-BN-based MIS memristors hold the potential to revolutionize energy consumption limitations in neuromorphic devices, bridging the gap between artificial and biological synapses.

Molecular Modification Strategies of Nitrilase for Its Potential Application in Agriculture.

Some feed source plants will produce secondary metabolites such as cyanogenic glycosides during metabolism, which will produce some poisonous nitrile compounds after hydrolysis and remain in plant tissues. The consumption of feed-source plants without proper treatment affect the health of the animals' bodies. Nitrilases can convert nitriles and have been used in industry as green biocatalysts. However, due to their bottleneck problems, their application in agriculture is still facing challenges. Acid-resistant nitrilase preparations, high-temperature resistance, antiprotease activity, strong activity, and strict reaction specificity urgently need to be developed. In this paper, the application potential of nitrilase in agriculture, especially in feed processing industry was explored, the source properties and catalytic mechanism of nitrilase were reviewed, and modification strategies for nitrilase application in agriculture were proposed to provide references for future research and application of nitrilase in agricultural and especially in the biological feed scene.

Effectiveness of Heat Application on Gastric Variables Among Patients With Nasogastric Tube Feeding Admitted in the Intensive Care Units at a Selected Hospital: A Randomized Control Trial.

BACKGROUND: Heat application, a nonpharmacological intervention, can relieve abdominal distension (AD), high stomach residual volume, and other specific gastrointestinal (GI) functions. It promotes peristaltic movement, which reduces intra-abdominal pressure and aids in the nutritional transition through the GI tract. It has also been demonstrated to be a noninvasive, safe, effective, and side-effect-free approach without needing medication. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to ascertain if heat application may improve stomach residual volume, AD, and GI functioning in patients who were hospitalized in intensive care units (ICUs) and were receiving nasogastric tube feeding. METHODS: The study used a quantitative research approach and experimental research design. Subjects were ICU patients hospitalized during data collection who were fed via nasogastric tubes. They were divided into two groups of 30 people each, with one group as the experimental group and the other as the control group. The groups were determined through random sampling using the coverslip method. A selected hospital ICU served as the study's setting. RESULTS: Analyses of stomach residual volume, AD, and GI performance revealed a statistically significant improvement in the study group compared to the control group. Research groups experienced significantly fewer vomiting episodes regularly compared to the control group. CONCLUSION:  In conclusion, all patients receiving nasogastric tube feedings should have local heat application treatment administered as part of their usual nursing care to reduce stomach residual volume, relieve AD, and reduce vomiting.

Enhancing bacterial control and daylight-driven water remediation with chitosan-impregnated MoC nanosheets.

The functionalization of nanoparticles with 2D nanosheets is an effective approach to enhance their functional properties for pollutant removal. This research outlines the synthesis of a 2D-delaminated molybdenum carbide (MXene) chitosan nanocomposite (2D-d-Mo2CTx-Cs NC) with bacterial control and photocatalytic properties for dye adsorption. The nanocomposite includes Tx-surface terminating groups O, OH, and F. In this investigation, the composite was synthesized using the etching method and its formation was confirmed through UV spectra at 288 nm. It was characterized through FTIR, XRD, Particle size, Zetapotential, FESEM, HRTEM, EDAX, and XPS analyses. FTIR spectral analysis of NC suggests that amines are formed through a Schiff base reaction between glutaraldehyde and Cs, or through the interaction of terminal aldehydes and carbonyl groups. The XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline structure of the composite. FESEM images revealed irregularly structured nanosheets (NSs) material in the prepared 2D-d-Mo2CTx-Cs NC samples. HRTEM images revealed 2D-d-Mo2CTx NSs impregnated onto Cs with an average size of 50 nm, as confirmed by a particle size analyzer, with a zeta potential value of - 15 mV. Additionally, Mo, C, N, and O are the most significant elements present in the NC, as confirmed by EDAX and XPS analyses. Further, biocompatibility testing of 2D-d-Mo2CTx-Cs NC yielded positive results. Moreover, under sunlight, the composites effectively adsorbed methylene blue with a 90% adsorption capacity, as confirmed by kinetic studies. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of Cs and d-Mo2CTx NSs resulted in significant antibacterial (50-200 µl of 1 mg/ml) and antibiofilm activity (100 µl of 1 mg/ml) against pathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, this study represents the first report on the use of 2D-d-Mo2CTx-Cs NC for daylight-influenced photocatalytic applications with a bacteria-controlling effect.

Preference signaling in orthopaedic surgery: applicant perspectives and opinions.

CONTEXT: Orthopaedic surgery has become increasingly competitive over the years, with the COVID-19 pandemic creating additional challenges for applicants and programs. To promote an equitable match experience, the American Orthopaedic Association (AOA) introduced a formal preference signaling (PS) system into the 2022-2023 application cycle. PS allows applicants to indicate their heightened interest in specific programs, which improves the likelihood of receiving an interview and ultimately matching at their desired residency program. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this anonymous survey is to assess applicants' opinions and perspectives toward PS in orthopaedic surgery prior to the 2022-2023 match results. Additionally, we sought to evaluate the signaling strategies being utilized by applicants. METHODS: An anonymous 22-question survey was distributed to applicants of an orthopaedic surgery residency program (34.2 % response rate). Responses were collected after the application submission deadline but before the match lists and results were available. This survey included questions germane to demographics, signal utilization, signaling reasons and strategies, and opinions toward PS. Descriptive statistics were calculated utilizing R (version 4.2.1) and RStudio. RESULTS: Most respondents (96.1 %) participated in PS, and 96.7 % utilized all 30 signals. Signaling encouraged 24.2 % of applicants to apply to fewer programs. In accordance with guidelines, 83.2 % of respondents signaled each away rotation program; however, only 53 % signaled their home program. Applicants commonly signaled 1-10 "reach" and "safety" programs each. Proximity to Family and Perceived Operative Experience were the most important reasons for signaling, whereas Program Prestige was the least. A program's social presence and virtual interview option did not influence many applicants' decisions for signaling. Most applicants believe that the COVID-19 pandemic and pass/fail licensure examinations influenced PS adoption. Sixty-seven of 149 respondents (45 %) claimed that applicants and programs benefit equally from PS, while 41 % believe programs benefit more. Nearly half (40.94 %) knew very little or nothing about PS. CONCLUSIONS: During the inaugural introduction of PS in orthopaedic surgery, nearly every applicant utilized all 30 signals, prioritizing factors like family proximity and perceived operative experience over program prestige. This shift reflects the importance of geographic location and presumed training quality. Despite unfamiliarity toward PS, personalized signaling strategies were implemented, accompanied by a slight decrease in application volumes. The 30 allotted signals in orthopaedic surgery may serve as an informal application cap due to the necessity of signaling a program for an interview invite. However, improved educational efforts are needed to enhance the understanding and maximize the benefits of PS for both applicants and programs.

Efficacy of an Artificial Intelligence App (Aysa) in Dermatological Diagnosis: Cross-Sectional Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Dermatology is an ideal specialty for artificial intelligence (AI)-driven image recognition to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient care. Lack of dermatologists in many parts of the world and the high frequency of cutaneous disorders and malignancies highlight the increasing need for AI-aided diagnosis. Although AI-based applications for the identification of dermatological conditions are widely available, research assessing their reliability and accuracy is lacking. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the efficacy of the Aysa AI app as a preliminary diagnostic tool for various dermatological conditions in a semiurban town in India. METHODS: This observational cross-sectional study included patients over the age of 2 years who visited the dermatology clinic. Images of lesions from individuals with various skin disorders were uploaded to the app after obtaining informed consent. The app was used to make a patient profile, identify lesion morphology, plot the location on a human model, and answer questions regarding duration and symptoms. The app presented eight differential diagnoses, which were compared with the clinical diagnosis. The model's performance was evaluated using sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and F1-score. Comparison of categorical variables was performed with the χ2 test and statistical significance was considered at P<.05. RESULTS: A total of 700 patients were part of the study. A wide variety of skin conditions were grouped into 12 categories. The AI model had a mean top-1 sensitivity of 71% (95% CI 61.5%-74.3%), top-3 sensitivity of 86.1% (95% CI 83.4%-88.6%), and all-8 sensitivity of 95.1% (95% CI 93.3%-96.6%). The top-1 sensitivities for diagnosis of skin infestations, disorders of keratinization, other inflammatory conditions, and bacterial infections were 85.7%, 85.7%, 82.7%, and 81.8%, respectively. In the case of photodermatoses and malignant tumors, the top-1 sensitivities were 33.3% and 10%, respectively. Each category had a strong correlation between the clinical diagnosis and the probable diagnoses (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: The Aysa app showed promising results in identifying most dermatoses.

Ultrasound assessment of diaphragmatic dysfunction in non-critically ill patients: relevant indicators and update.

Diaphragm dysfunction (DD) can be classified as mild, resulting in diaphragmatic weakness, or severe, resulting in diaphragmatic paralysis. Various factors such as prolonged mechanical ventilation, surgical trauma, and inflammation can cause diaphragmatic injury, leading to negative outcomes for patients, including extended bed rest and increased risk of pulmonary complications. Therefore, it is crucial to protect and monitor diaphragmatic function. Impaired diaphragmatic function directly impacts ventilation, as the diaphragm is the primary muscle involved in inhalation. Even unilateral DD can cause ventilation abnormalities, which in turn lead to impaired gas exchange, this makes weaning from mechanical ventilation challenging and contributes to a higher incidence of ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction and prolonged ICU stays. However, there is insufficient research on DD in non-ICU patients, and DD can occur in all phases of the perioperative period. Furthermore, the current literature lacks standardized ultrasound indicators and diagnostic criteria for assessing diaphragmatic dysfunction. As a result, the full potential of diaphragmatic ultrasound parameters in quickly and accurately assessing diaphragmatic function and guiding diagnostic and therapeutic decisions has not been realized.

Human Factors in AI-Driven Digital Solutions for Increasing Physical Activity: Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to enhance physical activity (PA) interventions. However, human factors (HFs) play a pivotal role in the successful integration of AI into mobile health (mHealth) solutions for promoting PA. Understanding and optimizing the interaction between individuals and AI-driven mHealth apps is essential for achieving the desired outcomes. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to review and describe the current evidence on the HFs in AI-driven digital solutions for increasing PA. METHODS: We conducted a scoping review by searching for publications containing terms related to PA, HFs, and AI in the titles and abstracts across 3 databases-PubMed, Embase, and IEEE Xplore-and Google Scholar. Studies were included if they were primary studies describing an AI-based solution aimed at increasing PA, and results from testing the solution were reported. Studies that did not meet these criteria were excluded. Additionally, we searched the references in the included articles for relevant research. The following data were extracted from included studies and incorporated into a qualitative synthesis: bibliographic information, study characteristics, population, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and AI-related information. The certainty of the evidence in the included studies was evaluated using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation). RESULTS: A total of 15 studies published between 2015 and 2023 involving 899 participants aged approximately between 19 and 84 years, 60.7% (546/899) of whom were female participants, were included in this review. The interventions lasted between 2 and 26 weeks in the included studies. Recommender systems were the most commonly used AI technology in digital solutions for PA (10/15 studies), followed by conversational agents (4/15 studies). User acceptability and satisfaction were the HFs most frequently evaluated (5/15 studies each), followed by usability (4/15 studies). Regarding automated data collection for personalization and recommendation, most systems involved fitness trackers (5/15 studies). The certainty of the evidence analysis indicates moderate certainty of the effectiveness of AI-driven digital technologies in increasing PA (eg, number of steps, distance walked, or time spent on PA). Furthermore, AI-driven technology, particularly recommender systems, seems to positively influence changes in PA behavior, although with very low certainty evidence. CONCLUSIONS: Current research highlights the potential of AI-driven technologies to enhance PA, though the evidence remains limited. Longer-term studies are necessary to assess the sustained impact of AI-driven technologies on behavior change and habit formation. While AI-driven digital solutions for PA hold significant promise, further exploration into optimizing AI's impact on PA and effectively integrating AI and HFs is crucial for broader benefits. Thus, the implications for innovation management involve conducting long-term studies, prioritizing diversity, ensuring research quality, focusing on user experience, and understanding the evolving role of AI in PA promotion.

Effect of a Smartphone App (S-Check) on Actual and Intended Help-Seeking and Motivation to Change Methamphetamine Use Among Adult Consumers of Methamphetamine in Australia: Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Interventions are required that address delays in treatment-seeking and low treatment coverage among people consuming methamphetamine. OBJECTIVE: We aim to determine whether a self-administered smartphone-based intervention, the "S-Check app" can increase help-seeking and motivation to change methamphetamine use, and determine factors associated with app engagement. METHODS: This study is a randomized, 28-day waitlist-controlled trial. Consenting adults residing in Australia who reported using methamphetamine at least once in the last month were eligible to download the app for free from Android or iOS app stores. Those randomized to the intervention group had immediate access to the S-Check app, the control group was wait-listed for 28 days before gaining access, and then all had access until day 56. Actual help-seeking and intention to seek help were assessed by the modified Actual Help Seeking Questionnaire (mAHSQ), modified General Help Seeking Questionnaire, and motivation to change methamphetamine use by the modified readiness ruler. χ2 comparisons of the proportion of positive responses to the mAHSQ, modified General Help Seeking Questionnaire, and modified readiness ruler were conducted between the 2 groups. Logistic regression models compared the odds of actual help-seeking, intention to seek help, and motivation to change at day 28 between the 2 groups. Secondary outcomes were the most commonly accessed features of the app, methamphetamine use, feasibility and acceptability of the app, and associations between S-Check app engagement and participant demographic and methamphetamine use characteristics. RESULTS: In total, 560 participants downloaded the app; 259 (46.3%) completed eConsent and baseline; and 84 (32.4%) provided data on day 28. Participants in the immediate access group were more likely to seek professional help (mAHSQ) at day 28 than those in the control group (n=15, 45.5% vs n=12, 23.5%; χ21=4.42, P=.04). There was no significant difference in the odds of actual help-seeking, intention to seek help, or motivation to change methamphetamine use between the 2 groups on the primary logistic regression analyses, while in the ancillary analyses, the imputed data set showed a significant difference in the odds of seeking professional help between participants in the immediate access group compared to the waitlist control group (adjusted odds ratio 2.64, 95% CI 1.19-5.83, P=.02). For participants not seeking help at baseline, each minute in the app increased the likelihood of seeking professional help by day 28 by 8% (ratio 1.08, 95% CI 1.02-1.22, P=.04). Among the intervention group, a 10-minute increase in app engagement time was associated with a decrease in days of methamphetamine use by 0.4 days (regression coefficient [ß] -0.04, P=.02). CONCLUSIONS: The S-Check app is a feasible low-resource self-administered intervention for adults in Australia who consume methamphetamine. Study attrition was high and, while common in mobile health interventions, warrants larger studies of the S-Check app. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619000534189; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=377288&isReview=true.

A Deep Learning-Based Rotten Food Recognition App for Older Adults: Development and Usability Study.

BACKGROUND: Older adults are at greater risk of eating rotten fruits and of getting food poisoning because cognitive function declines as they age, making it difficult to distinguish rotten fruits. To address this problem, researchers have developed and evaluated various tools to detect rotten food items in various ways. Nevertheless, little is known about how to create an app to detect rotten food items to support older adults at a risk of health problems from eating rotten food items. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to (1) create a smartphone app that enables older adults to take a picture of food items with a camera and classifies the fruit as rotten or not rotten for older adults and (2) evaluate the usability of the app and the perceptions of older adults about the app. METHODS: We developed a smartphone app that supports older adults in determining whether the 3 fruits selected for this study (apple, banana, and orange) were fresh enough to eat. We used several residual deep networks to check whether the fruit photos collected were of fresh fruit. We recruited healthy older adults aged over 65 years (n=15, 57.7%, males and n=11, 42.3%, females) as participants. We evaluated the usability of the app and the participants' perceptions about the app through surveys and interviews. We analyzed the survey responses, including an after-scenario questionnaire, as evaluation indicators of the usability of the app and collected qualitative data from the interviewees for in-depth analysis of the survey responses. RESULTS: The participants were satisfied with using an app to determine whether a fruit is fresh by taking a picture of the fruit but are reluctant to use the paid version of the app. The survey results revealed that the participants tended to use the app efficiently to take pictures of fruits and determine their freshness. The qualitative data analysis on app usability and participants' perceptions about the app revealed that they found the app simple and easy to use, they had no difficulty taking pictures, and they found the app interface visually satisfactory. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests the possibility of developing an app that supports older adults in identifying rotten food items effectively and efficiently. Future work to make the app distinguish the freshness of various food items other than the 3 fruits selected still remains.

Extraction, purification, structural characterization, and bioactivities of the genus Rhodiola L. polysaccharides: A review.

The genus Rhodiola L., an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine and Tibetan medicine in China, exhibits a broad spectrum of applications. This genus contains key compounds such as ginsenosides, polysaccharides, and flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypoglycaemic, immune-enhancing, and anti-hypoxic properties. As a vital raw material, Rhodiola L. contributes to twenty-four kinds of Chinese patent medicines and 481 health food products in China, finding extensive application in the health food sector. Recently, polysaccharides have emerged as a focal point in natural product research, with applications spanning the medicine, food, and materials sectors. Despite this, a comprehensive and systematic review of polysaccharides from the genus Rhodiola L. polysaccharides (TGRPs) is warranted. This study undertakes a systematic review of both domestic and international literature, assessing the research advancements and chemical functional values of polysaccharides derived from Rhodiola rosea. It involves the isolation, purification, and identification of a variety of homogeneous polysaccharides, followed by a detailed analysis of their chemical structures, pharmacological activities, and molecular mechanisms, structure-activity relationship (SAR) of TGRPs. The discussion includes the influence of molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and glycosidic bonds on their biological activities, such as sulfation and carboxymethylation et al. Such analyses are crucial for deepening the understanding of Rhodiola rosea and for fostering the development and exploitation of TGRPs, offering a reference point for further investigations into TGRPs and their resource utilization.

Assessing the distortions introduced when calculating d': A simulation approach.

The discriminability measure d ' is widely used in psychology to estimate sensitivity independently of response bias. The conventional approach to estimate d ' involves a transformation from the hit rate and the false-alarm rate. When performance is perfect, correction methods must be applied to calculate d ' , but these corrections distort the estimate. In three simulation studies, we show that distortion in d ' estimation can arise from other properties of the experimental design (number of trials, sample size, sample variance, task difficulty) that, when combined with application of the correction method, make d ' distortion in any specific experiment design complex and can mislead statistical inference in the worst cases (Type I and Type II errors). To address this problem, we propose that researchers simulate d ' estimation to explore the impact of design choices, given anticipated or observed data. An R Shiny application is introduced that estimates d ' distortion, providing researchers the means to identify distortion and take steps to minimize its impact.

Regulating the Distribution and Accumulation of Charged Molecules by Progressive Electroporation for Improved Intracellular Delivery.

The cell membrane separates the intracellular compartment from the extracellular environment, constraining exogenous molecules to enter the cell. Conventional electroporation typically employs high-voltage and short-duration pulses to facilitate the transmembrane transport of molecules impermeable to the membrane under natural conditions by creating temporary hydrophilic pores on the membrane. Electroporation not only enables the entry of exogenous molecules but also directs the intracellular distribution of the electric field. Recent advancements have markedly enhanced the efficiency of intracellular molecule delivery, achieved through the utilization of microstructures, microelectrodes, and surface modifications. However, little attention is paid to regulating the motion of molecules during and after passing through the membrane to improve delivery efficiency, resulting in an unsatisfactory delivery efficiency and high dose demand. Here, we proposed the strategy of regulating the motion of charged molecules during the delivery process by progressive electroporation (PEP), utilizing modulated electric fields. Efficient delivery of charged molecules with an expanded distribution and increased accumulation by PEP was demonstrated through numerical simulations and experimental results. The dose demand can be reduced by 10-40% depending on the size and charge of the molecules. We confirmed the safety of PEP for intracellular delivery in both short and long terms through cytotoxicity assays and transcriptome analysis. Overall, this work not only reveals the mechanism and effectiveness of PEP-enhanced intracellular delivery of charged molecules but also suggests the potential integration of field manipulation of molecular motion with surface modification techniques for biomedical applications such as cell engineering and sensitive cellular monitoring.

Multilevel Conductance States of Vapor-Transport-Deposited Sb2S3 Memristors Achieved via Electrical and Optical Modulation.

The pursuit of advanced brain-inspired electronic devices and memory technologies has led to explore novel materials by processing multimodal and multilevel tailored conductive properties as the next generation of semiconductor platforms, due to von Neumann architecture limits. Among such materials, antimony sulfide (Sb2S3) thin films exhibit outstanding optical and electronic properties, and therefore, they are ideal for applications such as thin-film solar cells and nonvolatile memory systems. This study investigates the conduction modulation and memory functionalities of Sb2S3 thin films deposited via the vapor transport deposition technique. Experimental results indicate that the Ag/Sb2S3/Pt device possesses properties suitable for memory applications, including low operational voltages, robust endurance, and reliable switching behavior. Further, the reproducibility and stability of these properties across different device batches validate the reliability of these devices for practical implementation. Moreover, Sb2S3-based memristors exhibit artificial neuroplasticity with prolonged stability, promising considerable advancements in neuromorphic computing. Leveraging the photosensitivity of Sb2S3 enables the Ag/Sb2S3/Pt device to exhibit significant low operating potential and conductivity modulation under optical stimulation for memory applications. This research highlights the potential applications of Sb2S3 in future memory devices and optoelectronics and in shaping electronics with versatility.

Arachidonic acid metabolism as a novel pathogenic factor in gastrointestinal cancers.

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are a major global health burden, representing 20% of all cancer diagnoses and 22.5% of global cancer-related deaths. Their aggressive nature and resistance to treatment pose a significant challenge, with late-stage survival rates below 15% at five years. Therefore, there is an urgent need to delve deeper into the mechanisms of gastrointestinal cancer progression and optimize treatment strategies. Increasing evidence highlights the active involvement of abnormal arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism in various cancers. AA is a fatty acid mainly metabolized into diverse bioactive compounds by three enzymes: cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase, and cytochrome P450 enzymes. Abnormal AA metabolism and altered levels of its metabolites may play a pivotal role in the development of GI cancers. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This review highlights a unique perspective by focusing on the abnormal metabolism of AA and its involvement in GI cancers. We summarize the latest advancements in understanding AA metabolism in GI cancers, outlining changes in AA levels and their potential role in liver, colorectal, pancreatic, esophageal, gastric, and gallbladder cancers. Moreover, we also explore the potential of targeting abnormal AA metabolism for future therapies, considering the current need to explore AA metabolism in GI cancers and outlining promising avenues for further research. Ultimately, such investigations aim to improve treatment options for patients with GI cancers and pave the way for better cancer management in this area.

An underutilized bean: hyacinth bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) sweet]: bioactive compounds, functional activity, and future food prospect and applications.

Hyacinth bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet], a plant belonging to the leguminous family and traditionally used for medicinal purposes in China, is a valuable resource with a wide range of health benefits. This review examines the bioactive compounds, health-promoting properties and functional food potential of hyacinth bean, highlighting its role in protecting against metabolic diseases and the underlying molecular mechanisms. According to existing research, hyacinth bean contains a diverse array of bioactive compounds, Consumption of hyacinth beans and hyacinth bean-related processed food products, as well as their use in medicines, is associated with a variety of health benefits that are increasingly favoured by the scientific community. In light of these findings, we posit that hyacinth bean holds great promise for further research and food application. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Fermentation biotechnology applied to wheat bran for the degradation of cell wall fiber and its potential health benefits: A review.

Consumption of wheat bran is associated with health benefits. However, the insoluble cell layer fiber and considerable levels of anti-nutritional factors limit bioavailability of wheat bran, which can be effectively improved through fermentation. To comprehensively elucidate the precise biotransformation and health benefits mechanisms underlying wheat bran fermentation. This review investigates current fermentation biotechnology for wheat bran, nutritional effects of fermented wheat bran, mechanisms by which fermented wheat bran induces health benefits, and the application of fermented wheat bran in food systems. The potential strategies to improve fermented wheat bran and existing limitations on its application are also covered. Current findings support that microorganisms produce enzymes that degrade the cell wall fiber of wheat bran during the fermentation, releasing nutrients and producing new active substances while degrading anti-nutrient factors in order to effectively improve nutrient bioavailability, enhance antioxidant activity, and regulate gut microbes for health effects. Fermentation has been an effective way to degrade cell wall fiber, thereby improving nutrition and quality of whole grain or bran-rich food products. Currently, there is a lack of standardization in fermentation and human intervention studies. In conclusion, understanding effects of fermentation on wheat bran should guide the development and application of bran-rich products.

Effectiveness of a mobile application for independent computerized cognitive training in patients with mild cognitive impairment: study protocol for the NeNaE Study, a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) involves cognitive decline beyond typical age-related changes, but without significant daily activity disruption. It can encompass various cognitive domains as the causes of MCI are diverse. MCI as well as frequent comorbid neuropsychiatric conditions like depression and anxiety affect individuals' quality of life. Early interventions are essential, and computerized cognitive training (cCT) is an established treatment method. This paper presents the protocol for the NeuroNation MED Effectiveness Study, evaluating the self-administered mobile cCT intervention ("NeuroNation MED") in individuals with MCI to assess training effects on cognitive domains, health competence, neuropsychiatric symptoms, psychological well-being, and the general application usability. METHODS: This study protocol presents a single-blinded multicenter randomized controlled trial that will be carried out in six study centers in Germany and Luxembourg. We included adults with MCI (existing F06.7 ICD-10-GM diagnosis and TICS ≥ 21 and ≤ 32). The intervention group will use a mobile, multi-domain cCT ("NeuroNation MED") for 12 weeks. Meanwhile, the wait list control group will receive standard medical care or no care. The eligibility of volunteers will be determined through a telephone screening. After completion of the baseline examination, patients will be randomly assigned to one of the experimental conditions in a 2:1 ratio. In total, 286 participants will be included in this study. The primary outcome is the change of cognitive performance measured by the index score of the screening module of the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery. Secondary outcomes are changes in the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Health-49, Health Literacy Questionnaire, among others. All of the primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at baseline and after the 12-week post-allocation period. Furthermore, the intervention group will undergo an assessment of the System Usability Scale, and the training data of the NeuroNation MED application will be analyzed. DISCUSSION: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a mobile self-administered cCT in enhancing cognitive abilities among individuals diagnosed with MCI. Should the findings confirm the effectiveness of the NeuroNation MED app, it may confer possible benefits for the care management of patients with MCI, owing to the accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and home-based setting it provides. Specifically, the cCT program could provide patients with personalized cognitive training, educational resources, and relaxation techniques, enabling participants to independently engage in cognitive training sessions at home without further supervision. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00025133. Registered on November 5, 2021.

The effect of a hybrid structured pulmonary rehabilitation education program for patients with lung cancer with a high risk of postoperative pulmonary complications: A quasi-experimental study.

PURPOSE: The absence of standardized protocols and education are the main obstacles to perioperative pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), especially for patients with high-risk factors of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). We aimed to explore the effect of a hybrid structured pulmonary rehabilitation education program (SPREP) on patients with lung cancer at high risk of PPCs. METHODS: A quasi-experimental trial with a pre-post test design was conducted. The control group (n = 53) adopted routine perioperative pulmonary rehabilitation, while the intervention group (n = 53) received SPREP. Respiratory function, 6-min walk distance, Borg dyspnea scale, quality of life, anxiety-depression scores at admission, discharge, 2 weeks and 3 months post-discharge, and incidence of PPCs were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: There were no significant differences on the 6-min walk distance and Borg Dyspnoea Scale at discharge between the two groups (P > 0.05), whereas the intervention group showed improved performance at the remaining time points (P < 0.05). In addition, the intervention group had improved exercise capacity, pulmonary function and quality of life, reduced levels of anxiety and depression at discharge, 2 weeks post-discharge and 3 months post-discharge (P < 0.05). In addition, incidence of PPCs was significantly reduced in the intervention group, especially postoperative pneumonia. CONCLUSIONS: The SPREP could show significant benefits in enhancing exercise capacity, lung function, and quality of life, while diminishing the occurrence of PPCs and mitigating the levels of anxiety and depression, future large RCT need to further explore the efficacy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was registered with the China Clinical Trial Registration Center (ChiCTR) under the Clinical Trial Registration Number [ChiCTR2200066698].