bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D3 enhances the effects of omega‐3 oils against metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease in rat
Authors: Refaat Bassem , Abdelghany Abdelghany H. , Ahmad Jawwad , Abdalla Osama M. , Elshopakey Gehad E. , Idris Shakir , El‐Boshy Mohamed
Published: November 2021

This study investigated the effects of omega‐3 oils (OM) and/or vitamin D3 (VD) against metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Forty rats were divided into negative (NC) and positive (PC) controls, OM, VD, and OM + VD groups, and MAFLD was induced by high‐fat/high‐fructose diet (12 weeks). Oral OM (415 mg/kg/day) and/or intramuscular VD (290 IU/kg/day) were given for 4 weeks (5 times/week). The PC animals were markedly obese and had hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, elevated liver enzymes, abnormal hepatic histology, and increased caspase‐3 with apoptosis than the NC group. The expression of hepatic peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α (PPAR‐α; 5.3‐fold), insulin induced gene‐1 (INSIG1; 7.8‐fold), adiponectin receptor‐1 (AdipoR1; 4.4‐fold), and leptin receptor (LEPR; 6‐fold) declined, while PPAR‐γ (3.7‐fold) and sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1 (SREBP1; 2.4‐fold) increased, in the PC than the NC group. Leptin (2.2‐fold), malondialdehyde (2.1‐fold), protein carbonyl groups (17.3‐fold), IL‐1β (4.4‐fold), IL‐6 (2.1‐fold), TNF‐α (1.8‐fold) also increased, whereas adiponectin (2.8‐fold) glutathione (2.1‐fold), glutathione peroxidase‐1 (2.4‐fold), glutathione reductase (2.2‐fold), catalase (1.4‐fold), and IL‐10 (2.8‐fold) decreased, in the PC livers. Both monotherapies attenuated obesity, metabolic profiles, and PPAR‐γ/SREBP1/leptin/Caspase‐3/apoptosis, while induced PPAR‐α/adiponectin/AdipoR1/LEPR/INSIG1. The monotherapies also reduced the oxidative stress and pro‐inflammatory markers and increased the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory molecules. However, the OM effects were better than VD monotherapy. Alternatively, the co‐therapy group showed the greatest ameliorations in liver functions, lipid‐regulatory molecules, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. In conclusion, while OM monotherapy was superior to VD, the co‐therapy protocol displayed the best alleviations against MAFLD, possibly by enhanced modulation of metabolic, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory pathways.
Analysis of risk factors for mental health problems of inpatients with chronic liver disease and nursing strategies: A single center descriptive study
Authors: Qin Zhu , Shen Yannan , Wu Yuanhao , Tang Haicheng , Zhang Lin
Published: November 2021

The number of patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) is large. The social and economic burdens due to CLD have increased. The mental health problems of patients with CLD are prominent and deserve our attention and care. This study analyzed 320 patients with CLD who were hospitalized between January 2018 and January 2020. Questionnaire surveys were used to assess mental health status, including the Self‐Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self‐Rating Depression Scale (SDS), and Symptom Checklist‐90 (SCL‐90). At the same time, basic data and potential related factors were collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Among the 320 patients with CLD, 240 (75%) had mental health problems; among the total patients, education levels, occupations, course of disease, annual hospitalizations, complications, and nursing satisfaction were significantly different between the two groups (p < .05). The education levels and occupations of the group without mental health problems were significantly different within the group (p < .05). The SCL‐90 found that the four factors with the highest scores were anxiety (ANX: 33.3%), depression (DEPR: 20.4%), somatization (SOM: 12.9%), and sleep and diet (SD: 9.6%). Logistic regression analysis showed that education levels, course of disease, annual hospitalizations, complications, and nursing satisfaction levels were independent risk factors for the mental health of patients with CLD. Model fitness was checked using the Hosmer–Lemeshow test. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that the area under the curve was 0.84. Patients with CLD have prominent mental health problems and experience many risk factors. It is necessary to adopt individualized psychological interventions and care to improve the quality of life of these patients.
Identification and Analysis of the Biosynthetic Gene Cluster for the Indolizidine Alkaloid Iminimycin in Streptomyces griseus
Authors: Tsutsumi Hayama , Katsuyama Yohei , Tezuka Takeaki , Miyano Rei , Inahashi Yuki , Takahashi Yoko , Nakashima Takuji , Ohnishi Yasuo
Published: November 2021

Indolizidine alkaloids, which have versatile bioactivities, are produced by various organisms. Although the biosynthesis of some indolizidine alkaloids has been studied, the enzymatic machinery for their biosynthesis in Streptomyces remains elusive. Here, we report the identification and analysis of the biosynthetic gene cluster for iminimycin, an indolizidine alkaloid with a 6‐5‐3 tricyclic system containing an iminium cation from Streptomyces griseus. The gene cluster has 22 genes, including four genes encoding polyketide synthases (PKSs), which consist of eight modules in total. In vitro analysis of the first module revealed that its acyltransferase domain selects malonyl‐CoA, although predicted to select methylmalonyl‐CoA. Inactivation of seven tailoring enzyme‐encoding genes and structural elucidation of four compounds accumulated in mutants provided important insights into iminimycin biosynthesis, although some of these compounds appeared to be shunt products. This study expands our knowledge of the biosynthetic machinery of indolizidine alkaloids and the enzymatic chemistry of PKS.
Intralesional delivery of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors in acute myocardial infarction: Review and recommendations
Authors: Kirresh Ali , Candilio Luciano , Stone Gregg W.
Published: November 2021

Plaque rupture leads to a cascade of events culminating in collagen disruption, tissue factor release, platelet activation and thrombus formation. Pro‐inflammatory conditions, hyperglycemia and smoking predispose to high thrombus burden (HTB) which is an independent predictor of slow or no‐reflow. In patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPI) reduce thrombus burden and improve myocardial perfusion. These agents are typically administered systemically via the intravenous route or locally via an intracoronary (IC) route. However, as higher local concentrations of GPI are associated with enhanced platelet inhibition, intralesional (IL) GPI administration may be particularly effective in cases of HTB. Modest‐sized randomized trials comparing IL and IC GPI delivery have reported conflicting outcomes. Some trials have demonstrated improved coronary flow and myocardial perfusion with reduced major adverse cardiac events with IL compared with IC GPI administration, whereas others have shown no significant benefits. Furthermore, although no direct comparison has been made between IL delivery using an aspiration catheter, microcatheter or a dedicated balloon‐based “weeping” infusion‐catheter, improved outcomes have been most consistent following GPI administration at the site of the lesion and thrombus with the dedicated infusion catheter. This review provides an update on the role and outcomes of IL GPI administration in patients with AMI and HTB. Based on the evidence we offer an algorithm demonstrating when to consider IL administration in patients with AMI undergoing intervention. We conclude with a perspective on the management of patients with STEMI and COVID‐19 in whom a prothrombotic state often results in HTB.
Dilated cardiomyopathy associated with celiac disease: A case report
Authors: Elnour Salma , Hashim Maram , Ibrahim Halah
Published: November 2021

Background: Celiac disease, an immune‐mediated inflammation of the small intestine, occurs in genetically predisposed individuals, and is caused by sensitivity to dietary gluten and related proteins. The global prevalence is approximately 1%. Celiac disease is frequently associated with extra‐intestinal manifestations, including iron deficiency anemia, dermatologic eruptions, type 1 diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease, and connective tissue disorders, but is rarely associated with cardiomyopathy.Case presentation: Our case describes a 33‐year‐old woman, who presented with exertional dyspnea and fatigue, and was diagnosed with severe iron deficiency anemia and dilated cardiomyopathy, secondary to celiac disease. Conclusion: High clinical suspicion is needed to identify celiac disease in patients diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, as an improvement in cardiac function has been reported with strict adherence to a gluten‐free diet.
Pit viper envenomation in pediatric dogs: 5 cases
Authors: Southern Carl J. , Allen‐Durrance Ashley E. , Schaer Michael
Published: November 2021

Treatment of pit viper envenomated puppies (≤6  months old) with antivenom was well tolerated, similar to adult dogs. However, therapeutic guidelines should be established to direct use and prove efficacy in this population.
Boosting Surface Reconstruction for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction: A Combined Effect of Heteroatom Incorporation and Anion Etching in Cobalt Silicate Precatalyst
Authors: Sarkar Debashrita , Ganguli Sagar , Mondal Ayan , Mahalingam Venkataramanan
Published: November 2021

Electrochemical water splitting is one of the most desirable techniques for combatting the global challenge of sustainable fuel generation. The generation of highly active electrocatalysts for efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) requires the rational design of a precatalyst that can enhance the number density of the active catalyst generated during water splitting. In this work, we report sulfurincorporated iron‐doped cobalt silicate (CoFeSiO−S) nanoparticles, which exhibit a unique ability to show gradual improvement in the electrocatalytic behavior with time. The precatalyst could reach a low overpotential of 267±6 mV at benchmark current density of 10 mA/cm2 and 300 mV at 100 mA/cm2 current density after applying chronopotentiometry for 30 h. The exceptional OER performance is further evidence by a low Tafel slope of 37.0±0.5 mV/dec with a very high TOF value of 1.05 s−1. This improved activity is attributed to 1) facilitation of Co2+/Co3+ by Fe doping, 2) faster catalyst activation due to lower metal‐sulfur bond energy compared to metal‐oxygen bond energy, 3) higher pore diameter that enables faster diffusion of reactants and products, 4) lower charge transfer resistance of sulfur incorporated iron‐doped cobalt phyllosilicate than pristine, and 5) silicate anion etching in the electrolyte. This work establishes a fundamental understanding of the surface reconstruction occurring during the OER process where silicates are employed as precatalyst.
In Situ Activation/Dedoping‐Induced Defective Carbon Sponge for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Wei Keyan , Zheng Hongmei , Hou Jingting , Tang Zeming , Zheng Jing , Lai Qingxue , Liang Yanyu
Published: November 2021

The N‐dedoping‐based defect engineering strategy has been designed as an efficient method to develop advanced defective carbon electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, the defective structures, especially the defect density of carbon materials fabricated by this method, were significantly suppressed by the limited N doping level. Herein, an in situ activation/N‐dedoping strategy was proposed to fabricate a controllable defective carbon sponge (DCS) for ORR electrocatalysts, during which a Schiff‐base polymer with a high N content was employed as the carbon precursor and N source while zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were the thermally removable structure template and activator. As a result, the optimized DCS1100 with a high specific surface area of 1198 m2/g and a low nitrogen content of 2.81 at.% delivered a comparable activity and four‐electron selectivity but superior stability to commercial 30 % Pt/C in 0.1 M KOH electrolyte.
DEB‐FAPy‐dG Adducts of 1,3‐Butadiene: Synthesis, Structural Characterization, and Formation in 1,2,3,4‐Diepoxybutane Treated DNA**
Authors: Pujari Suresh S. , Jokipii Krueger Caitlin C. , Chao Christopher , Hutchins Spencer , Hurben Alexander K. , Boysen Gunnar , Tretyakova Natalia
Published: November 2021

Metabolic activation of the human carcinogen 1,3‐butadiene (BD) by cytochrome 450 monooxygenases gives rise to a genotoxic diepoxide, 1,2,3,4‐diepoxybutane (DEB). This reactive electrophile alkylates guanine bases in DNA to produce N7‐(2‐hydroxy‐3,4‐epoxy‐1‐yl)‐dG (N7‐DE‐dG) adducts. Because of the positive charge at the N7 position of the purine heterocycle, N7‐DEB‐dG adducts are inherently unstable and can undergo spontaneous depurination or base‐catalyzed imidazole ring opening to give N6‐[2‐deoxy‐D‐erythro‐pentofuranosyl]‐2,6‐diamino‐3,4‐dihydro‐4‐oxo‐5‐N‐1‐(oxiran‐2‐yl)propan‐1‐ol‐formamidopyrimidine (DEB‐FAPy‐dG) adducts. Here we report the first synthesis and structural characterization of DEB‐FAPy‐dG adducts. Authentic standards of DEB‐FAPy‐dG and its 15N3‐labeled analogue were used for the development of a quantitative nanoLC‐ESI+‐HRMS/MS method, allowing for adduct detection in DEB‐treated calf thymus DNA. DEB‐FAPy‐dG formation in DNA was dependent on DEB concentration and pH, with higher numbers observed under alkaline conditions.
Developing Efficient Small Molecule Acceptors with sp2‐Hybridized Nitrogen at Different Positions by Density Functional Theory Calculations, Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Machine Learning
Authors: Mahmood Asif , Irfan Ahmad , Wang Jin‐Liang
Published: November 2021

Chemical structure of small molecule acceptors determines their performance in organic solar cells. Multiscale simulations are necessary to avoid trial‐and‐error based design, ultimately to save time and resources. In current study, the effect of sp2‐hybridized nitrogen substitution at the inner or the outmost position of central core, side chain, and terminal group of small molecule acceptors is investigated using multiscale computational modelling. Quantum chemical analysis is used to study the electronic behavior. Nitrogen substitution at end‐capping has significantly decreased the electron‐reorganization energy. No big change is observed in transfer integral and excited state behavior. However, nitrogen substitution at terminal group position is good way to improve electron‐mobility. Power conversion efficiency (PCE) of newly designed acceptors is predicted using machine learning. Molecular dynamics simulations are also performed to explore the dynamics of acceptor and their blends with PBDB‐T polymer donor. Florgy‐Huggins parameter is calculated to study the mixing of designed small molecule acceptors with PBDB‐T. Radial distribution function has indicated that PBDB‐T has a closer packing with N3 and N4. From all analysis, it is found that nitrogen substitution at end‐capping group is a better strategy to design efficient small molecule acceptors.
Resilient health care in global pediatric oncology during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Graetz Dylan E. , Sniderman Elizabeth , Villegas Cesar A. , Kaye Erica C. , Ragab Iman , Laptsevich Aliaksandra , Maliti Biemba , Naidu Gita , Huang Haiying , Gassant Pascale Y. , Nunes Silva Luciana , Arce Daniela , Montoya Vasquez Jacqueline , Arora Ramandeep Singh , Alcasabas Ana Patricia , Rusmawatiningtyas Desy , Raza Muhammad Rafie , Velasco Pablo , Kambugu Joyce , Vinitsky Anna , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos , Agulnik Asya , Moreira Daniel C. ,   for the COVIMPACT Study Group
Published: November 2021

Background

In the face of unprecedented challenges because of coronavirus disease 2019, interdisciplinary pediatric oncology teams have developed strategies to continue providing high‐quality cancer care. This study explored factors contributing to health care resilience as perceived by childhood cancer providers in all resource level settings.

Methods

This qualitative study consisted of 19 focus groups conducted in 16 countries in 8 languages. Seven factors have been previously defined as important for resilient health care including: 1) in situ practical experience, 2) system design, 3) exposure to diverse views on the patient's situation, 4) protocols and checklists, 5) teamwork, 6) workarounds, and 7) trade‐offs. Rapid turn‐around analysis focused on these factors.

Results

All factors of health care resilience were relevant to groups representing all resource settings. Focus group participants emphasized the importance of teamwork and a flexible and coordinated approach to care. Participants described collaboration within and among institutions, as well as partnerships with governmental, private, and nonprofit organizations. Hierarchies were advantageous to decision‐making and information dissemination. Clinicians were inspired by their patients and explained creative trade‐offs and workarounds used to maintain high‐quality care.

Conclusions

Factors previously described as contributing to resilient health care manifested differently in each institution but were described in all resource settings. These insights can guide pediatric oncology teams worldwide as they provide cancer care during the next phases of the pandemic. Understanding these elements of resilience will also help providers respond to inevitable future stressors on health care systems.
The number of brain metastases predicts the survival of non‐small cell lung cancer patients with EGFR mutation status
Authors: Shao Jun , Li Jingwei , Song Lujia , He Qiuyao , Wu Yuxuan , Li Linhui , Liu Dan , Wang Chengdi , Li Weimin
Published: November 2021

Background

Lung cancer is the common cause of cancer‐related deaths throughout the world, and brain is a frequent metastatic site of lung cancer.

Aim

This research sought to evaluate the impact of the number of brain metastases in prognosticating non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients accounting to the role of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations.

Methods and Results

NSCLC patients with brain metastases diagnosed/treated in West China Hospital, Sichuan University between 2009 and 2017 were identified retrospectively. Kaplan–Meier approach was adopted to estimate OS. And we performed univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses of characteristics related to overall survival (OS) in both EGFR‐mutated and wild‐type cohorts. In total, this study included 611 eligible NSCLC patients with brain metastases. Extracranial metastases and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors of OS in both cohorts. As the disease progressed, EGFR‐mutated patients had brain metastasis significantly earlier (P < .0001), but they also had notably better survival outcomes than wild‐type patients (P < .0001). And the number of brain metastases impacted the survival incidence in the progression significantly in both EGFR‐mutated and wild‐type groups (P = .0087/.037, respectively).

Conclusion

The number of brain metastases was a prognostic factor for lung cancer patients either with EGFR mutations or with wild‐type EGFR, with larger number indicating more unfavorble clinical outcomes. Patients with EGFR mutations had a better survival.
Pleomorphic dermal sarcoma: Clinicopathological features and outcomes from a 5‐year tertiary referral centre experience
Authors: Logan Ian T. , Vroobel Katherine M. , le Grange Franel , Perrett Conal M.
Published: November 2021

Background

Pleomorphic dermal sarcoma (PDS) describes rare dermal‐based malignant tumours that are morphologically similar to atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX). PDS may be differentiated from AFX by the presence of one or more of the following histologic features: subcutaneous invasion, tumour necrosis, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and/or perineural infiltration (PNI).

Aims

To further define the clinicopathological features, surgical management, and outcomes of PDS primary tumours.

Methods and Results

This study was a retrospective observational case series using a database search from 2012 to 2017. Inclusion criteria required all cases to meet the histopathologic criteria for PDS as confirmed by a specialist soft‐tissue histopathologist. A total of n = 17 cases were included with a median age of 78 years (range 66–85). All tumours were located on the head and neck, with 13/17 located on the scalp. Primary treatment was with wide local excision (WLE) in all cases. Median follow‐up was 48 months. Local recurrence occurred in 4/17 cases (24%) and distant metastasis in 2/17 cases (12%).

Conclusion

PDS behaves more aggressively than atypical fibroxanthoma with which it shares a biologic continuum. The optimal surgical management approach is yet to be determined.
Enhanced global and local face feature extraction for effective recognition of facial emotions
Authors: Retnamony Jeen Retna Kumar , Muniasamy Sundaram , Stanley Berakhah Florence
Published: November 2021

Emotion recognition is a challenging task in the field of human computer interaction. For a successful human emotion recognition system, a robust, discriminative, and sensitive feature extraction is an essential need. In this article, the extraction of global features is done by the proposed frequency decoded lifting wavelet pattern descriptor (FDLWP) and extraction of local features is done by the proposed local gradient difference zig‐zag pattern descriptor (LGDZP). The face parts are detected using viola jones algorithm and the selection of optimal face active regions is accomplished by the calculation of structural similarity index measure. Eventually the local spatial zig‐zag structure of the face region is utilized to attain LGDZP descriptor. The fusion of local and global features is accomplished using canonical correlation analysis. The classification made using bank of restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM) classifiers yields promising results for the proposed method. Furthermore, the proposed recognition method delivers a promising accuracy in varying illumination, occlusion, and noise. The accuracy of the method is analyzed by doing experiments with the databases such as JAFFE, CK+, MMI, Oulu‐CASIA, and SFEW. The obtained results of the proposed method yield better accuracy than the existing state of art methods in this field.
Mechanochemical Organocatalysis: Do High Enantioselectivities Contradict What We Might Expect?
Authors: Williams Matthew T. J. , Morrill Louis C. , Browne Duncan L.
Published: November 2021

Ball mills input energy to samples by pulverising the contents of the jar. Each impact on the sample or wall of the jar results in an instantaneous transmission of energy in the form of a temperature and pressure increase (volume reduction). Conversely, enantioselective organocatalytic reactions proceed through perceived delicate and well‐organised transition states. Does there exist a dichotomy in the idea of enantioselective mechanochemical organocatalysis? This Review provides a survey of the literature reporting the combination of organocatalytic reactions with mechanochemical ball milling conditions. Where possible, direct comparisons of stirred in solution, stirred neat and ball milled processes are drawn with a particular focus on control of stereoselectivity.
Symmetrical switching strategy based on reduced switching state in a three‐phase multilevel converter with a single faulty cell
Authors: Zolfagharian Omid , Dastfan Ali , Hoseintabar Marzebali Mohammad
Published: November 2021

Due to the possibility of the occurrence of a fault in converters, performance improvement of a converter under faulty conditions is important. In this paper, for improving the performance of the three‐phase cascaded H‐bridge multilevel converters (CHB‐MLCs) with a single faulty cell, the quarter‐and half‐wave symmetry selective harmonic mitigation (SHM) modulation method as well as reducing the number of switching angles (NSA) has been used. Consequently, it helps to reduce the switching frequency (fs) and the number of sentences of the Fourier series thus simplifies the objective function. In addition, the proposed method enables the switching angles of a faulty cell to be transferred to other normal cells per phase. For this purpose, the switching angles of the cells are optimized so that at least one of the cells does not overlap with the other cells in the same phase. By employing the maximum modulation index under the faulty condition, the maximum capacities of the remaining DC sources are used and consequently, the line voltage drop in the output voltage is prevented. To produce a balanced line voltage, the fundamental phase‐shift Compensation (FPSC) method is employed. Simulation and experimental results are presented to confirm the efficiency of the proposed strategy.
Intelligent reflecting surface‐assisted downlink nonorthogonal multiple access systems
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev , Deka Kuntal , Dixit Dharmendra , A Rajesh
Published: November 2021

Recently, intelligent reflecting surface (IRS)‐based communication systems are analyzed for 6G and beyond wireless networks. In this paper, we propose an IRS‐assisted downlink nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) system by considering separate IRS for near users (NUs) and far users (FUs). The optimal power allocation strategy among NUs and FUs is formulated for the proposed downlink IRS‐NOMA system. The symbol error probability and the sum‐rate performance of the IRS‐NOMA system are analyzed. Further, the impact of the modulation order, the number of reflecting surfaces, the number of phase shifts of reflected signals on symbol error, and power allocation between NU and FU is studied.
Advances in cocaine signature methodology: Alkaloid and isotope profiles of coca grown in Puno, Peru
Authors: Jones Laura M. , Ceniccola‐Campos Kristin E. , Morello David R.
Published: November 2021

Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Cocaine Signature Program previously identified 19 coca‐growing regions within South America and developed methodology to geo‐source cocaine using a combination of trace cocaine alkaloids, stable isotopes, and multivariate statistics. Twenty‐nine coca leaf samples collected in 2016 and 2019 from a previously unanalyzed coca‐growing region located in Puno, Peru, were analyzed with this methodology. Trace cocaine alkaloids and stable isotopes were compared with other Peruvian regions. Minor differences were observed in the extracted cocaine alkaloid profiles when compared with samples collected from the Ucayali‐Huallaga Valley and Cusco‐Apurimac regions while the stable isotopes of δ2H (−177.1‰) and δ18O (23.8‰) were enriched. Puno's alkaloid and stable isotope results are presented in this publication to assist forensic laboratories and enhance their cocaine geo‐sourcing capabilities.
Vitamin D status in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes in a specialized diabetes care centre in Bangladesh
Authors: Zabeen Bedowra , Nahar Jebun , Ahmed Bulbul , Tayyeb Samin , Islam Nasreen , Azad Kishwar
Published: November 2021

Objectives

High prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) was found in several epidemiological studies. The current study aimed to assess the Vitamin D status in children and adolescents with T1D and to examine the influence of the disease characteristics on vitamin D status in a specialized care centre in a tertiary hospital in Bangladesh.

Methods

Participants were enrolled in the cross‐sectional study at the time of a regularly scheduled visit to the CDiC Paediatric Diabetes Center in BIRDEM 2(Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation of Diabetes Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders), a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. The demographic and clinical data were collected through medical records with a structured questionnaire.

Results

Among sixty study participants, most had inadequate levels of vitamin D: deficiency 31 (51.7%), insufficiency 14 (23.3%) and sufficiency 15 (25.0%). Participants with vitamin D deficiency (VDD) were significantly older compared to the sufficient and insufficient group (p = .029), and were residing in urban areas (p = .036) and from higher socioeconomic status (p = .014). BMI was significantly higher in VDD compared to the sufficient group (p = .040). Although we observed higher median values of daily insulin requirements and HbA1c values in patients with VDD compared to patients with vitamin D insufficiency or vitamin D sufficiency, these differences did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

The present study revealed that the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency among T1 diabetes children was very high. Future studies in large sample are required to assess hypovitaminosis D in youth with T1D and also the possible relating factors of vitamin D deficiency.
Stereoselective β‐Mannosylation via Anomeric O‐Alkylation with L‐Sugar‐Derived Electrophiles
Authors: Hettiarachchi Ishani Lakshika , Meng Shuai , Chahine Mira , Li Xiaohua , Zhu Jianglong
Published: November 2021

A total synthesis of the trisaccharide repeat unit of Salmonella serogroup E1 O‐antigen is reported. This synthesis features a key β‐mannosylation reaction through a cesium carbonate‐mediated anomeric O‐alkylation of a partially protected D‐mannose with an L‐fucose‐derived electrophile for the first time.
Benzoannellated Fenestranes Bearing para‐Terphenyl Units
Authors: Seifert Monika , Barth Dieter , Kuck Dietmar
Published: November 2021

The synthesis of several centrotriindanes bearing ortho‐phenyl groups in the sterically constricted bay regions is described. The classical three‐step sequence including twofold cyclodehydration of the corresponding 2,2‐dibenzyl‐1,3‐indanediols afforded an angular difuso‐triidane and several all‐cis‐tribenzo[5.5.5.6]fenestranols equipped with two or four ortho‐phenyl groups. In contrast to the construction of these conformationally flexible centrotriindanes, attempts to synthesize ortho,ortho‐diphenyl‐substituted tribenzotriquinacenes failed due to the increased rigidity of the TBTQ skeleton. The high steric load imposed by the para‐terphenyl moieties affects the spirocyclization between 1,3‐indanedione and 1,5‐di‐(para‐2′‐terphenylyl)pentadienone, kinetic control of which is critical to access the all‐cis‐tribenzo[5.5.5.6]fenestrane framework. In contrast, the corresponding tetraphenyl‐cis,cis,cis,trans‐tribenzo[5.5.5.6]fenestranol is easily accessible.
Electrochemical 3D micro‐ and nanoprinting: Current state and future perspective
Authors: Hengsteler Julian , Lau Genevieve P. S. , Zambelli Tomaso , Momotenko Dmitry
Published: November 2021

3D Printing in the micro‐ and nanoscale is a challenge extensively researched by the additive manufacturing community. Unlocking the third dimension adds an unprecedented degree of freedom for the fabrication of complex structures unavailable with conventional 2D microfabrication techniques. Electrochemical 3D printing methods provide sophisticated solutions tackling many of the problems arising when shrinking voxel sizes toward micro‐ or even nanometer scales, especially for the manufacturing of fine conductive (mostly metal) structures. Herein, we review the current state‐of‐the‐art methods of electrochemical additive manufacturing and discuss their perspective for future advances in terms of technology advancement in resolution and speed, materials, and applications for printing functional devices.
Tracing structural changes in energy materials: A novel multi sample capillary setup for in house powder X‐ray diffraction
Authors: Stüble Pirmin , Binder Joachim R. , Geßwein Holger
Published: November 2021

Lithium ion batteries (LIBs) are currently a major subject of applied electrochemical research as there is a fast growing demand of electrochemical energy storage, driven by the transformation of the automotive sector and the expansion of renewable energies. One of the key strategies to improve LIBs is the optimization of the cathode active materials (CAMs). Therefore, in order to find structure property relations, both crystallographic and electrochemical properties need to be investigated and well understood. However, standard laboratory powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) possibly comes to its limit when minor structural variations such as atomic defects, cation order, or minor impurity phases are addressed. In order to focus on such minor structural changes and to find decisive differences in crystalline properties of battery materials, a multi‐sample capillary setup for a multipurpose in‐house PXRD setup was developed. The latter is made up from a six‐circle diffractometer, a microfocus molybdenum rotating anode, and a 2D area detector. The capillary spinner itself is made from commercial components and simple custom‐made adapters. A goniometer head is installed on a rotary module and sample spinning is enabled by a 12 V gear motor. Mounted on a xyz‐stage of the diffractometer, the position of the rotating capillary exposed to the primary beam can be varied while remaining perfectly aligned in the center of the diffractometer. Hence, by packing up to 10 different powder samples separated from each other into a single glass capillary, subsequent measurements of all samples can be carried out without remounting or readjustment. Within a series of samples, the setup is extremely reliable, precise, and accurate, while errors originating from sample displacement, misalignment, or calibration are minimized.
University shares strategies for fall 2021 enrollment success
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: November 2021

A 21% increase — that's how much Eastern Michigan University's freshmen enrollment went up from fall 2020 to fall 2021 (from 1,863 to 2,255). “We're in the midst of what will ultimately be a 20% decline in graduating high school seniors in Michigan,” said Kevin Kucera, Vice President of Enrollment Management at EMU. “And regional public universities like ours are feeling the pressure that comes with this decline. So over the last few years, we've really zeroed in on things we can do to address our numbers. Not only have we increased our enrollment, but we also welcomed our most academically prepared class this year with an average of 3.43 GPA. And 44% of incoming students self‐reported a diverse background for ethnicity, which was up 12% from the previous year.”
Study on annular pressure buildup phenomenon in subsea wells considering the effect of cement
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhang Hui , Li Jun , Sun Tengfei
Published: November 2021

In marine fossil energy production, annular pressure buildup (APB) caused by temperature increase is a widely concerned problem and needs to be solved urgently in subsea wells. To study and predict APB and avoid consequent safety accidents and economic losses, a novel model is proposed to predict APB considering the effect of cement. The model has a wider application range by considering the dynamic change of thermal properties and mass change of the annular fluid. Laboratory experiments were conducted to verify the accuracy of the proposed model. Then a case study and mitigation evaluation were conducted to make the further analysis. Research results show that cement has a significant effect on APB, ignoring the cement may bring potential danger. The height of cement affects APB differently when the top of cement (TOC) is above and below the previous casing shoes. Making the TOC below the previous casing shoe could provide a leakage surface for annular fluid. It is an effective method for APB mitigation but a balance needs to be struck between wellbore integrity and mitigation effect. Gas or foam injection is another effective method to mitigate APB. The necessary gas volume varies with the annular pressure and initial gas pressure and needs to be determined according to the actual condition, especially in deepwater wells.
Reply to Letter to the Editor regarding “The stroma in oral potentially malignant disorders: An overlooked denominator?”
Authors: Magalhaes Marco A. O.
Published: November 2021

see page 572‐573
Removal of sugar sweetened beverages from sale in a hospital setting—Consumer opinion and influence on purchasing behavior
Authors: Tinney Melissa , Rittinger Rowena , Tomlinson Kate , Borg Dan , Warzel Aleksandra , O’Sullivan Mairead , Nyanhanda Tafadzwa
Published: November 2021

Issue addressed

This study investigated the impact of removing sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) from sale in a regional health service. Drink purchasing patterns were measured by product ordering data. Consumer opinion regarding the intervention, self‐reported packaged drink purchase and consumption were also explored.

Methods

Packaged drinks were classified into two categories, SSB or non‐SSB and drink types. Drink sales were determined by the collection of product ordering data for all packaged drink types sold, six months prior to and twelve months after the removal of SSBs. A consumer survey was undertaken six months after SSB removal to assess consumer opinion regarding SSB removal, self‐reported SSB consumption and purchase. Descriptive and Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests analyses assessed differences in packaged drinks purchase, self‐reported SSB consumption and purchase. Open‐ended survey responses were thematically analysed.

Results

The median monthly number of juices, and diet drinks ordered increased significantly (P = .05). 59% of the survey respondents regularly consumed SSBs and 58% agreed or strongly agreed with removing SSBs from sale. However, some consumers felt it was a removal of their freedom of choice.

Conclusions

Removing SSBs from sale can result in consumers making healthier purchases. There was support for the initiative as it is seen as the responsibility of the health service to role model healthy eating behaviours.

So what?

This study indicates removal of SSBs from sale is a promising health promotion intervention that can contribute to positive behaviour change, and potentially influence longer‐term health and wellbeing.
lncRNA BZRAP1‐AS1 alleviates rheumatoid arthritis by regulating miR‐1286/COL5A2 axis
Authors: Zhu Junsong , Tu Shaoheng , Qu Qunwei
Published: November 2021

Background

Dysregulation of BZRAP1‐AS1 was associated with immune statuses of cancer or Alzheimer's disease patients, yet little is known about its role in rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

RT‐qPCR and western blot were applied to assess the expression of indicated expression. CCK‐8 and BrdU proliferation assays were used to measure the proliferation of RA‐HFLS. Apoptosis in RA‐HFLS was evidenced by the alteration of caspase‐3 activity and apoptosis‐related factors. ELISA was performed to detect IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α level. Luciferase reporter, RIP, and pull‐down assays were used to confirm the BZRAP1‐AS1/miR‐1286/COL5A2 cascade predicted by bioinformatics analysis.

Results

BZRAP1‐AS1 and COL5A2 were downregulated in RA tissues and RA‐HFLS while miR‐1286 was amplified. Overexpression of BZRAP1‐AS1 reduced the RA‐HFLS proliferation, IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α level and induced cell apoptosis while BZRAP1‐AS1 silence produced an opposite effect. Overexpression of BZRAP1‐AS1 reduced the miR‐1286 expression which in turn increased the COL5A2 expression, thereby relieving the excessive proliferation and limited apoptosis in RA‐HFLS.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that BZRAP1‐AS1 sequestered miR‐1286 and reshaped the COL5A2 expression, thereby suppressed RA‐HFLS proliferation and inflammation, and triggered cell apoptosis, resulting in the attenuation of RA progression.
Mitochondrial dynamics and quantification of mitochondria‐derived vesicles in cardiomyoblasts using structured illumination microscopy
Authors: Opstad Ida S. , Godtliebsen Gustav , Ahluwalia Balpreet Singh , Myrmel Truls , Agarwal Krishna , Birgisdottir Åsa Birna
Published: November 2021

Mitochondria are essential energy‐providing organelles of particular importance in energy‐demanding tissue such as the heart. The production of mitochondria‐derived vesicles (MDVs) is a cellular mechanism by which cells ensure a healthy pool of mitochondria. These vesicles are small and fast‐moving objects not easily captured by imaging. In this work, we have tested the ability of the optical super‐resolution technique 3DSIM to capture high‐resolution images of MDVs. We optimized the imaging conditions both for high‐speed video microscopy and fixed‐cell imaging and analysis. From the 3DSIM videos, we observed an abundance of MDVs and many dynamic mitochondrial tubules. The density of MDVs in cells was compared for cells under normal growth conditions and cells during metabolic perturbation. Our results indicate a higher abundance of MDVs in H9c2 cells during glucose deprivation compared with cells under normal growth conditions. Furthermore, the results reveal a large untapped potential of 3DSIM in MDV research.
The post‐processing temperature or humidity can importantly control the secondary structure and characteristics of silk fibroin films
Authors: Wang Hai‐Yan , Zhou Su‐Fang , Zhang Meng , Wang Heng‐Da , Zhang Yu‐Qing
Published: November 2021

Temperature and humidity (TH) are highly important factors that can control the secondary structure and characterization of silk fibroin (SF) biomaterials. In this study, the water stability, secondary structure, mechanical properties, surface morphology, and degradation of silk fibroin films (SFFs) with post‐processing in different TH were investigated. Fourier transform infrared indicated that the SFF secondary structure did not change under low‐relative humidity (RH) despite temperatures up to 180°C, while it transformed at 40°C with 100% RH in 10 min. A film with a higher tensile strength (42.1 ± 8.2 MPa) could be obtained after post‐processing at 90°C/100% RH for 10 min. While a film with higher ductility (elongation at break: 198.8 ± 31.8%) was generated after post‐processing at 40°C/100% RH for 10 min. Scanning electron microscope showed that the film presented a network structure of nanoparticles in series under certain TH post‐treatment. Enzymatic hydrolysis proved that the SFFs containing a higher content of silk II structure degraded more slowly. Therefore, TH post‐treatment is a relatively mild way to change the secondary structure and properties of SFFs, which can be widely used in loading drugs and maintaining the activity of drugs in SF biomaterials.
Long noncoding RNA SNHG6 promotes oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma by downregulating the miR‐101‐3p/EZH2 pathway
Authors: Zhang Yueli , Li Ruijia , Ding Xiaoliang , He Meng , Zhang Rui
Published: November 2021

Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) have been reported to play a vital role in the development of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Our previous study revealed that the significant upregulation of the LncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 6 (SNHG6) in OSCC promotes OSCC tumourigenesis. However, the mechanisms underlying the dynamics of SNHG6 expression in OSCC have rarely been studied. In this study, we verified the tumour‐promoting effect of SNHG6 through sponging miR‐101‐3p, and their levels were negatively correlated in human samples of OSCC. In addition, miR‐101‐3p overexpression reversed the effect of SNHG6. Moreover, we confirmed that SNHG6/miR‐101‐3p affects OSCC by regulating the expression of the enhancer of zeste 2 (EZH2). The effect of EZH2 silencing resembled closely that of SNHG6 knockdown. EZH2 silencing inhibited the expression of protein cyclin D1 and β‐catenin, but in contrast, it enhanced the expression of E‐cadherin. These findings demonstrated the oncogenic role of SNHG6, which promotes OSCC progression by regulating the expression of EZH2 through its interaction with miR‐101‐3p. These findings may help in improving the diagnosis and treatment methods of OSCC.
Biochemical and histological alterations of doxorubicin‐induced neurotoxicity in rats: Protective role of luteolin
Authors: Imosemi Innocent O. , Owumi Solomon E. , Arunsi Uche O.
Published: November 2021

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapeutic drug used in the treatment of various cancer types. DOX toxic side effects include neuronopathy and memory deficits. We investigated the effect of the antioxidant luteolin (LUT: 50 or 100 mg/kg; per os) on DOX (2 mg/kg; intraperitoneal)‐induced oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and apoptosis in the brain of Wistar rats for 14 days. We observed that LUT reduced DOX‐mediated increase in OS biomarkers—catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione‐S‐transferase, and glutathione peroxidase. LUT increased glutathione and total sulphydryl levels and alleviated DOX‐induced increases in the levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, lipid peroxidation, myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β). Additionally, LUT suppressed caspase‐3 activity, increased anti‐inflammatory cytokine—IL‐10 level, and reduced pathological lesions in the examined organs of rats cotreated with LUT and DOX. Collectively, cotreatment with LUT lessened DOX‐induced neurotoxicity. Supplementation of LUT as a chemopreventive agent might be useful in patients undergoing DOX chemotherapy.
miR‐145 attenuates phenotypic transformation of aortic vascular smooth muscle cells to prevent aortic dissection
Authors: Qiu Zhi‐Huang , He Jian , Chai Tian‐ci , Zhang Yu‐ling , Zhou Hao , Zheng Hui , Chen Xiao‐song , Zhang Li , Li Yu‐mei , Chen Liang‐wan
Published: November 2021

Background

miR‐145 is closely related to vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) phenotype transformation; however, the regulatory mechanisms through which miR‐145 regulates the VSMC phenotype transformation under mechanical stretching are unclear. In this study, we evaluated the roles of miR‐145 in VSMCs subjected to mechanical stretching in aortic dissection (AD).

Methods

The expression of miR‐145 in the aortic vessel wall of model animals and patients with AD was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. miR‐145‐related protein‐protein interaction networks and Wikipathways were used to analyze VSMC phenotypic transformation pathways regulated by miR‐145. We used gain‐ and loss‐of‐function studies to evaluate the effects of miR‐145 on VSMC differentiation under mechanical stretch induction and assessed whether Krüppel‐like factor 4 (KLF4) was regulated by miR‐145 in the aorta under mechanical stretch conditions.

Results

miR‐145 was abundantly expressed in the walls of the normal human aorta, but was significantly downregulated in animal models and the walls of patients with dissection. We found that contractile phenotype‐related proteins were downregulated in VSMCs subjected to mechanical stretching, whereas the expression of secreted phenotype‐related proteins increased. miR‐145 overexpression also downregulated contractile phenotype‐related proteins in VSMCs and suppressed upregulation of phenotype‐related proteins. Finally, under mechanical stretching, KLF4 expression was significantly increased in VSMCs, and overexpression of miR‐145 blocked this effect.

Conclusion

Our results confirmed that mechanical stretch‐induced phenotypic transformation of VSMCs to promote AD via upregulation of KLF4; this mechanism was regulated by miR‐145, which directly modulated KLF4 expression and VSMC differentiation.