bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stable Perovskite Quantum Dots Light‐Emitting Diodes with Efficiency Exceeding 24%
Authors: Zhang Xuanyu , Wang Qiangqiang , Yao Zhiwei , Deng Ming , Wang Jing , Qian Lei , Ren Yong , Yan Yuying , Xiang Chaoyu
Published: October 2023

Perovskite nanocrystals for light‐emitting diodes are often synthesized by uncontrollable metathesis reactions, suffering from low product yield, nonuniform growth, and poor stability. Herein, by controlling the nucleation kinetics with high dissociation constant (Ka or Kb) acids or bases, homogenous one‐route nucleation of perovskite nanocrystals is achieved as the cluster intermediates are eliminated. The stable, shape uniform, and narrow size distribution green nanocrystals are synthesized. The perovskite nanocrystal film exhibites excellent stability in 80% humidity air with only a 10% photoluminescence intensity drop after 16 h. Efficient and stable electroluminescence is demonstrated with an FWHM of 16 nm at 517 nm. The green devices shows a peak EQE of 24.13% with a lifetime T50 of 54 min at 10 000 cd m−2.
Locomotory behaviour of euryhaline rotifer Brachionus rotundiformis: The potential influence of probiotics on swimming pattern and speed
Authors: Kagali Robert Nesta , Sakakura Yoshitaka , Hagiwara Atsushi
Published: October 2023

We evaluated the effect of probiotics on the growth and culture condition of rotifer in medium‐sized culture tanks. The influence of probiotics on the changes in swimming patterns, velocity and sinuosity indices of rotifer was also examined. The rotifers (Brachionus rotundiformis) were cultured for 14 days in nine polycarbonate tanks containing seawater which were divided into three groups: a control group (Chlorella product) and two treatment groups: Chlorella + Probiotic I and Chlorella + Probiotic II. The rotifer population and the water quality parameters were monitored daily. To evaluate the locomotory behaviour of the rotifer, a sub‐sample containing rotifers was obtained from each treatment and placed on a glass‐bottomed dish. A high‐speed camera mounted on a stereo microscope was used to record the rotifer movement. The footage was then analysed using motion analysis software to establish the swimming velocity, swimming pattern and sinuosity indices of the rotifers. Co‐feeding rotifer on microalgae and probiotics resulted in a higher rotifer growth rate (0.51 ± 0.03) and decreased concentration of unionized ammonia (0.14 ± 0.02 mg L−1). In addition, the probiotic‐fed rotifers had 1.59 times higher average swimming velocity (0.97 ± 0.11 mm s−1) and more straight swimming pattern compared to rotifers that fed on microalgae alone whose velocity was slow (0.61 ± 0.14 mm s−1) and more sinuous. From these data, we can postulate that probiotics have the potential to attenuate rotifer culture conditions by decreasing ammonia concentration as well as influence rotifer swimming behaviour which could affect rotifer reproduction and the quality of fish larvae in aquaculture systems.
Creativity: Reaching for the Right Settlement Tool
Authors: Creo Robert Angelo
Published: October 2023

In 2005, the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution published a two‐volume book authored by John W. Cooley which addressed creativity in negotiations and mediators. This comprehensive treatment consisted of exploration of the theory and science of creativity and a compilation of articles and narratives by mediators on the tools they used to bring about resolution of litigation and other complex disputes. The difference between convergent versus divergent thinking is explained in the context of creativity with the chart at right comparing the two models. See Cooley's Section 1.3.3.2.
Nanofibers in Organelles: From Structure Design to Biomedical Applications
Authors: Hu Jing‐Jing , Lin Niya , Zhang Yunfan , Xia Fan , Lou Xiaoding
Published: October 2023

Nanofibers are one of the most important morphologies of molecular self‐assemblies, the formation of which relies on the diverse intermolecular interactions of fibrous‐forming units. In the past decade, rapid advances have been made in the biomedical application of nanofibers, such as bioimaging and tumor treatment. An important topic to be focused on is not only the nanofiber formation mechanism but also where it forms, because different destinations could have different influences on cells and its formation could be triggered by unique stimuli in organelles. It is therefore necessary and timely to summarize the nanofibers assembled in organelles. This minireview discusses the formation mechanism, triggering strategies, and biomedical applications of nanofibers, which may facilitate the rational design of nanofibers, improve our understanding of the relationship between nanofiber properties and organelle characteristics, allow a comprehensive recognition of organelles affected by materials, and enhance the therapeutic efficiency of nanofibers.
Experimental and theoretical studies on structural aspects of transition metal complexes of isonicotinoyl N‐oxide hydrazone: Their DNA‐binding interaction and cytotoxicity
Authors: Anitha Nayakini , Jhansi Lakshmi Padithem , Mudavath Ravi , Sarala Devi Ch.
Published: October 2023

Equilibrium studies of isonicotinoyl N‐oxide hydrazone [4‐(2‐(4‐(diethylamino)‐2‐hydroxybenzylidene) hydrazine carbonyl) pyridine1‐oxide] were carried out by employing pH‐metric titrations in 40% DMF‐H2O medium at 303 K and 0.1 M ionic strength, to investigate its ligation properties. Quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) and molecular orbital properties were evaluated by applying HyperChem 7.5 tools. The title compound and its Cu (II), Ni (II), and Zn (II) complexes were characterized by various spectro analytical tools, namely, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance, liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry, UV‐Vis, thermogravimetric analysis–differential thermal analysis, scanning electron microscope (SEM)–energy‐dispersive X‐ray, electron spin resonance, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) studies. Infrared data provided information about the chelating properties of ligand and coordination sites in metal complexes. The electronic spectral studies of complexes inferred the symmetry‐based spin allowed electronic transitions and charge transfer (CT) transitions. Mass spectral studies, elemental analysis, and thermal studies of complexes confirmed the composition of the metal complexes. The surface texture and nanocrystalline nature of solid compounds were studied by SEM and XRD methods. The antioxidant activities of all the compounds were determined by DPPH radical scavenging method. DNA‐binding interactions of the synthesized compounds with calf thymus (CT)‐DNA were studied by absorption and fluorescence methods. Antioxidant and antimicrobial studies indicated their potentiality as active agents. Cytotoxicity measurements of title compounds for IC50 values on MCF‐7 cell line, and docking scores of these compounds with chosen target, computed by employing AutoDock software indicated their potential for anticancer properties.
Morphological effects of sphericalSiO2and hexagonal mesoporousMCM‐41 nanoparticles in polyacrylonitrile mixed matrix membranes on the biofouling mitigation in short‐term filtration
Authors: Hashemi Targol , Mehrnia Mohammad Reza , Pourafshari Chenar Mahdi
Published: October 2023

In this study, the morphology of the nanostructures is evaluated on the surface characterization and performance of the polyacrylonitrile (PAN) ultrafiltration mixed matrix membranes (MMM). To this end, silica nanoparticles (NPs) such as spherical (SiO2) and hexagonal mesoporous (MCM‐41) with high hydrophilicity were incorporated at 0.5, 1, and 2 wt%. Attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared analysis illustrated the placement of NP on the surface of the MMM. Atomic force microscopy studies also showed that SiO2NP added to PAN exhibited a smoother surface than MCM‐41 NP. Field‐emission scanning electron microscope analysis of the MMM identified that all membranes are composed of a finger‐like porous structure. Contact angle measurements indicate that the morphology of the NPs has no significant effect on MMM hydrophilicity. Moreover, the performance of the MMM was evaluated, and regardless of NP morphology, the MMM showed better permeate flux with increased loading. A higher pure water flux was observed in the PAN‐MCM41‐1% membrane (237 L/m2 h), possibly because of inherent porosity and high hydrophilicity of MCM‐41 compared to SiO2NP. Further, the PAN‐SiO2‐1% membrane exhibited superior antifouling properties due to a lower surface roughness. The present studies reveal that the morphology of the NP greatly influence on the structure, permeation, and antifouling properties of PAN membranes.
Investigation of water absorption performance of polyester‐woven fabrics coated with super absorbent polymer
Authors: Özan Kadir , Kanik Mehmet , Özer Sude Seyda
Published: October 2023

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) constitute a special class of polymers widely used in various fields, especially in the hygiene and healthcare sectors. This study investigates the feasibility of achieving high water absorption capacity surfaces by coating powdered SAP using conventional coating methods onto textile surfaces. For this purpose, water‐based coating pastes containing micronized SAP powder based on acrylamide/acrylic acid copolymer were coated onto polyester (PES)‐woven fabric surfaces using a knife‐over‐roll coating technique. As the working parameters, the pH value of the coating paste, the coating thickness (the distance between the cloth and the knife), the drying/fixing temperature and time, the SAP concentration, and the water absorption capacity according to time were investigated. The results were evaluated by applying the coating thickness, the amount of coating material transferred to the fabric on the SAP‐coated samples, water absorbing capacity, and centrifugal water retention tests. The obtained results have demonstrated that textile surfaces with high water absorption capacity (on average 200%–350%) can be achieved by coating hydrophobic fabric surfaces, such as PES, with SAP under suitable conditions.
Incorporation of healthy volunteers data on receptor occupancy into a phase II proof‐of‐concept trial using a Bayesian dynamic borrowing design
Authors: Di Stefano Fulvio , Rodrigues Christelle , Galtier Stephanie , Guilleminot Sandrine , Robert Veronique , Gasparini Mauro , Saint‐Hilary Gaelle
Published: October 2023

Receptor occupancy in targeted tissues measures the proportion of receptors occupied by a drug at equilibrium and is sometimes used as a surrogate of drug efficacy to inform dose selection in clinical trials. We propose to incorporate data on receptor occupancy from a phase I study in healthy volunteers into a phase II proof‐of‐concept study in patients, with the objective of using all the available evidence to make informed decisions. A minimal physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling is used to model receptor occupancy in healthy volunteers and to predict it in the patients of a phase II proof‐of‐concept study, taking into account the variability of the population parameters and the specific differences arising from the pathological condition compared to healthy volunteers. Then, given an estimated relationship between receptor occupancy and the clinical endpoint, an informative prior distribution is derived for the clinical endpoint in both the treatment and control arms of the phase II study. These distributions are incorporated into a Bayesian dynamic borrowing design to supplement concurrent phase II trial data. A simulation study in immuno‐inflammation demonstrates that the proposed design increases the power of the study while maintaining a type I error at acceptable levels for realistic values of the clinical endpoint.
Lipid Droplets Specific Fluorophore for Demarcation of Normal and Diseased Tissues
Authors: Rajput Ms. Deeksha , Mahalingavelar Paramasivam , Patel Ms. Dhara , Bait Amey , Mandal Palash , Soppina Virupakshi , Kanvah Sriram
Published: October 2023

Using high‐fidelity, permeable, lipophilic, and bright fluorophores for imaging lipid droplets (LDs) in tissues holds immense potential in diagnosing conditions such as diabetic or alcoholic fatty liver disease. In this work, we utilized linear and Λ‐shaped polarity‐sensitive fluorescent probes for imaging LDs in both cellular and tissue environments, specifically in rats with diabetic and alcoholic fatty liver disease. The fluorescent probes possess several key characteristics, including high permeability, lipophilicity, and brightness, which make them well‐suited for efficient LD imaging. Notably, the probes exhibit a substantial Stokes shift, with 143 nm for DCS and 201 nm for DCN with selective targeting of the lipid droplets. Our experimental investigations successfully differentiated morphological variations between diseased and normal tissues in three distinct tissue types: liver, adipose, and small intestine. They could help provide pointers for improved detection and understanding of LD‐related pathologies.
A novel high‐risk aortic root anatomy for right coronary artery occlusion during TAVI
Authors: Orzalkiewicz Mateusz , Bruno Antonio G. , Saia Francesco , Palmerini Tullio
Published: October 2023

Acute coronary occlusion during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a rare but potentially lethal complication. Main mechanisms are sinus insufficiency or sinus sequestration with well‐described risk factors. We present two cases of acute right coronary artery occlusion during TAVI with a self‐expanding valve in the absence of classical risk factors and propose a novel mechanism.
Multiple emergency department encounters for acute musculoskeletal presentation with an existing mental health diagnosis
Authors: Arora Priya , Elliott James M , Pourkazemi Fereshteh , Nasseri Pebdani Roxanna
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

Reconceptualising acute Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries with both stress‐ and tissue‐ based factors is required to consider prior influences of mental health disorders on acute persistent MSK pain presentations. This report describes repeated emergency presentations of an individual with acute persistent MSK pain in their twenties living with mental health. Their mental health diagnoses included depression, mood disorders, and anorexia nervosa. This person also had mental health related inpatient admissions that were not captured under the retrospective record review for a large district hospital emergency department using the Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms (SNOMED CT) classification system. This case report attempts to demonstrate that improving the understanding of preexisting vulnerabilities and mental health diagnoses may assist with informing healthcare design to develop specialised care pathways for acute injury presentations within triage settings.
Using ethephon for seedhead suppression of ‘KSUZ 0802’ (Innovation) zoysiagrass
Authors: Chhetri Manoj , Fry Jack D. , Kennelly Megan M.
Published: October 2023

‘KSUZ 0802’ zoysiagrass (Innovation zoysiagrass, Zoysia matrella × Z. japonica) is a new cultivar that provides a high‐quality playing surface on golf course fairways and tees. However, seedheads produced in late spring disrupt the playing surface. The plant growth regulator (PGR) ethephon has produced variable results in prior studies in suppressing zoysiagrass seedheads, and information for KSUZ 0802 is lacking. A two‐year field experiment was conducted from 2019–2021 in Manhattan, KS, to assess the performance of ethephon (Proxy) on seedhead suppression of KSUZ 0802 zoysiagrass. Treatments included ethephon applied in a single application at 5 fl. oz. 1000 ft−2 on multiple dates between August and November. Seedhead suppression was determined by counting seedheads in late spring. Ethephon applied in September provided >60% seedhead suppression; however, when applied during other months, variations were large between the two study years. Applying ethephon when accumulated cooling degree days (68°F base) were <37 resulted in >70% seedhead suppression, except for application on September 25, 2019. Late August ethephon applications, despite achieving good seedhead suppression (ranging from 54 to 80%), caused transient yet commercially unacceptable injury to KSUZ 0802 in both years. Application timing affected turf quality in late spring as KSUZ 0802 with fewer seedheads had better quality post‐mowing, but no effect on spring greenup was observed. Ethephon can be an effective PGR for seedhead suppression in KSUZ 0802 zoysiagrass. However, careful consideration of application timing is essential as applying ethephon in late summer or late autumn can produce undesirable results.
Optimization of the Coating Process of a Ca(OH)2‐Based Thermochemical Energy Storage Material
Authors: Lucke Benjamin W. , Afflerbach Sandra , Krumm Wolfgang
Published: October 2023

A promising candidate for a thermochemical storage system implemented into district heating is a previously developed core‐shell material based on CaO/Ca(OH)2. Proceeding from the preliminary manufacturing process, this work aims to optimize relevant material properties as mechanical stability and shell uniformity, by varying defined parameters during a reproduceable coating procedure, ready for commercial upscaling.
Resilience and depressive symptoms in inpatients with depression: A cross‐lagged panel model
Authors: Meule Adrian , Lieb Klaus , Chmitorz Andrea , Voderholzer Ulrich
Published: October 2023

Background

Resilience—the ability to bounce back or quickly recover from stress—has been found to predict treatment outcome in patients with mental disorders such as depression. The current study aimed to test whether resilience itself changes during treatment and whether resilience exclusively predicts changes in depressive symptoms or whether depressive symptoms also predict changes in resilience.

Methods

Inpatients with depression (N = 2165; average length of stay M = 60 days, SD = 32) completed the Brief Resilience Scale and the Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale at admission and discharge, scores of which were used to run a cross‐lagged panel model.

Results

Resilience increased and depressive symptoms decreased from admission to discharge. Cross‐sectionally, higher resilience was related to lower depressive symptoms at admission and at discharge. Prospectively, higher resilience at admission predicted stronger decreases in depressive symptoms, and higher depressive symptoms at admission predicted smaller increases in resilience.

Limitations

Self‐report questionnaires may potentially be biased (e.g., through recall bias, social desirability, or demand effects).

Conclusions

The current study further supports that resilience is related not only to fewer mental health problems cross‐sectionally but also is sensitive to change and a predictor of treatment outcome in patients with mental disorders. Given this pivotal role in mental health, the current findings highlight the importance of prevention and intervention approaches for promoting resilience in the general population and in persons with mental disorders in particular.
A simple and effective capacitor‐based equalizer for cell‐to‐cell battery equalization
Authors: Chen Haijin
Published: October 2023

We propose an equalizer using two capacitors along with a resistor and a cell access network to address the weakness of low equalization power for the flying‐capacitor based equalizer, which integrates the merits of simplicity and reliability in the application of cell‐to‐cell battery equalization. The equalization process is implemented by alternately charging the capacitors from high state of charge (SoC) cell and discharging the capacitors to low SoC cell, where the capacitors are run in parallel in charging and in series in discharging, and the charging or discharging duration is determined byξ, the multiple of the time constant of the circuit. A protection is also designed to suppress the peak current occurred when initializing the equalizer due to the zero‐boot voltage of the capacitor. Theoretical analysis shows that the equalization power, which is governed by the lumped resistance of equalization path andξ, can range from less than 1 W to greater than 6 W. The battery discharging time increases about 5.14% under constant current of 0.5 C in the experimental test. Additional advantage of our equalizer is its operating frequency as low as several Hz, which benefits hardware implementations. The equalizer can attain high equalization power through simple capacitors and a regulating resistor, which is suitable to be used for industrial applications.
Going with the floe:Sea‐ice movement affects distance and destination duringAdélie penguin winter movements
Authors: Jongsomjit Dennis , Lescroël Amelie , Schmidt Annie E. , Lisovski Simeon , Ainley David G. , Hines Ellen , Elrod Megan , Dugger Katie M. , Ballard Grant
Published: October 2023

Seasonal migration, driven by shifts in annual climate cycles and resources, is a key part of the life history and ecology of species across taxonomic groups. By influencing the amount of energy needed to move, external forces such as wind and ocean currents are often key drivers of migratory pathways exposing individuals to varying resources, environmental conditions, and competition pressures impacting individual fitness and population dynamics. Although wildlife movements in connection with wind and ocean currents are relatively well understood, movements within sea‐ice fields have been much less studied, despite sea ice being an integral part of polar ecology. Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) in the southern Ross Sea, Antarctica, currently exist at the southernmost edge of their range and undergo the longest (~12,000 km) winter migration known for the species. Within and north of the Ross Sea, the Ross Gyre drives ocean circulation and the large‐scale movement of sea ice. We used remotely sensed sea‐ice movement data together with geolocation‐based penguin movement data to test the hypothesis that penguins use gyre‐driven sea‐ice movement to aid their migration. We found that penguins traveled greater distances when their movement vectors were aligned with those of sea ice (i.e., ice support) and the amount of ice support received depended on which route a penguin took. We also found that birds that took an eastern route traveled significantly further north in two of the 3 years we examined, coinciding with higher velocities of sea ice in those years. We compare our findings to patterns observed in migrating species that utilize air or water currents for their travel and with other studies showing the importance of ocean/sea‐ice circulation patterns to wildlife movement and life history patterns within the Ross Sea. Changes in sea ice may have consequences not only for energy expenditure but, by altering migration and movement pathways, to the ecological interactions that exist in this region.
Severe aortic insufficiency‐induced cardiogenic shock treated with left atrial VA‐ECMO and emergent valve‐in‐valve TAVR
Authors: Golzarian Hafez , Thiel Arielle , Hempfling Gerri , Otto Michael , Otto Todd , Shappell Emily , Racer Lisa , Martz Denise , Recker‐Herman Christine M. , Laird Amanda , Cole William C. , Sirak John , Patel Sandeep M.
Published: October 2023

Conventional venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO) places a functional afterload burden on the left ventricle. In the setting of acute severe aortic insufficiency‐induced cardiogenic shock, the utility of VA‐ECMO in combination with a failing valve may result in catastrophic haemodynamic consequences. This challenge is compounded when the culprit is a failing surgical bioprosthetic valve. We present a case of severe rapid‐onset bioprosthetic aortic insufficiency‐induced cardiogenic shock successfully resuscitated with left atrial VA‐ECMO promptly followed by emergent percutaneous valve‐in‐valve transaortic valve replacement. We discuss the logistics, implications, and associated haemodynamic manifestations in utilizing this strategy for such disease processes.
Systemic vascular resistance predicts high‐output cardiac failure in patients with high‐flow arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Lee Dan‐Ying , Chen Ting , Huang Wei‐Chieh , Chou Ruey‐Hsing , Wu Cheng‐Hsueh , Yang Chih‐Yu , Lee Chiu‐Yang , Lin Chih‐Ching , Tarng Der‐Cherng
Published: October 2023

Aims

Patients with high‐flow arteriovenous (AV) access are at risk of developing high‐output cardiac failure (HOCF) and subsequent hospitalization. However, diagnosing HOCF is challenging and often requires invasive procedures. The role of systemic vascular resistance (SVR) in diagnosing HOCF is underestimated, and its predictive value is limited. Our study aims to identify non‐invasive risk factors for HOCF to facilitate early diagnosis and timely surgical interventions.

Methods and results

We included 109 patients with high‐flow AV access who underwent serial echocardiography. The retrospective cohort was divided into two groups based on their hospitalization due to HOCF. The two groups were matched for age and gender. After a mean follow‐up of 25.1 months, 19 patients (17.4%) were hospitalized due to HOCF. The two groups had similar baseline characteristics. However, the HOCF group had a higher value of vascular access blood flow (Qa) (2168 ± 856 vs. 1828 ± 617 mL/min; P = 0.045). Echocardiographic analysis revealed that the HOCF group had more pronounced left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (E/e′: 21.1 ± 7.3 vs. 16.2 ± 5.9; P = 0.002), more severe pulmonary hypertension (right ventricular systolic pressure: 41.4 ± 16.7 vs. 32.2 ± 12.8; P = 0.009), a higher Doppler‐derived cardiac index (CI) (4.3 ± 0.8 vs. 3.7 ± 1.1; P = 0.031), and a lower Doppler‐derived estimated SVR (eSVR) value (5.5 ± 0.3 vs. 6.9 ± 0.2; P = 0.002) than the non‐HOCF group. Using multivariable Cox regression analysis, a low eSVR value (<6) emerged as an independent predictor of HOCF hospitalization with a hazard ratio of 9.084 (95% confidence interval, 2.33–35.39; P = 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that CI/eSVR values more accurately predicted HOCF hospitalization [sensitivity: 94.7%, specificity: 51.0%, area under the curve (AUC): 0.75, P < 0.001] than the Qa/cardiac output ratio (AUC: 0.50, P = 0.955), Qa values ≥ 2000 mL/min (AUC: 0.60, P = 0.181), and Qa values indexed for height in metres (AUC: 0.65, P = 0.040).

Conclusions

In patients with high‐flow AV access, low eSVR values obtained through non‐invasive Doppler echocardiography were associated with a high rate of HOCF hospitalizations. Therefore, routine eSVR screening in these patients might expedite the diagnosis of HOCF.
Hawkes Process: Fast Calibration, Application to Trade Clustering, and Diffusive Limit
Authors: Da Fonseca José , Zaatour Riadh
Published: October 2023

This study provides explicit formulas for the moments and the autocorrelation function of the number of jumps over a given interval for a self‐excited Hawkes process. These computations are possible thanks to the affine property of this process. Using these quantities an implementation of the method of moments for parameter estimation that leads to an fast optimization algorithm is developed. The estimation strategy is applied to trade arrival times for major stocks that show a clustering behavior, a feature the Hawkes process can effectively handle. As the calibration is fast, the estimation is rolled to determine the stability of the estimated parameters. Lastly, the analytical results enable the computation of the diffusive limit in a simple model for the price evolution based on the Hawkes process. It determines the connection between the parameters driving the high‐frequency activity to the daily volatility. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 34:548–579, 2014
Down‐regulation of OIP5‐AS1 inhibits obesity‐induced myocardial pyroptosis and miR‐22/NLRP3 inflammasome axis
Authors: Yue Qingxiong , Liu Yan , Ji Jun , Hu Tao , Lin Tong , Yu Shuang , Li Shijun , Wu Nan
Published: October 2023

Background

Obesity can induce myocardial pyroptosis, but the exact mechanism is still unknown. A recent study reported the association of opa‐interacting protein 5‐antisense transcript 1 (OIP5‐AS1), an evolutionarily conserved long noncoding RNA, with pyroptosis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of OIP5‐AS1 in obesity‐induced myocardial pyroptosis.

Methods

OIP5‐AS1 was downregulated in H9c2 cells, followed by treatment with 400 μM palmitic acid (PA). Propidium iodide (PI) staining, lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay, caspase‐1 activity assay, IL‐1β, and IL‐18 activity assay were performed to detect pyroptotic phenotype. The interaction between OIP5‐AS1 and microRNAs (miRNAs) was analyzed using RNA pull‐down and luciferase assay. The effect of OIP5‐AS1 knockdown in high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced obesity rat on cardiac function, myocardial hypertrophy, fibrosis, and remodeling was evaluated.

Results

Fat deposition was observed in cardiomyocytes 24 h after PA treatment; moreover, PA‐treated cardiomyocytes showed significant increase in the rate of pyroptotic cells, release of LDH, protein expressions of NLRP3 and cleaved caspase‐1, and the activity of caspase‐1, IL‐1β, and IL‐18 as well as OIP5‐AS1 expression. These findings suggested that PA activated pyroptosis and induced OIP5‐AS1 expression in cardiomyocytes. Moreover, OIP5‐AS1 knockdown inhibited PA‐induced pyroptosis. Mechanistically, OIP5‐AS1 was found to specifically bind to miR‐22 and to regulate NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated pyroptosis via miR‐22. Furthermore, OIP5‐AS1 knockdown ameliorated HFD‐induced cardiac dysfunction, myocardial hypertrophy, fibrosis, remodeling, and pyroptosis.

Conclusion

Our results revealed that downregulation of OIP5‐AS1 can inhibit obesity‐induced myocardial pyroptosis via miR‐22/NLRP3 inflammasome axis. This finding lays a foundation of gene therapy for heart disease targeting OIP5‐AS1.
Dual‐board governance and board independence: Conglomerate affiliate versus standalone firms
Authors: Uddin Md Hamid , Najaf Khakan , Hassan M. Kabir , Wahab Nor Shaipah Abdul
Published: October 2023

We argue that the corporate board of an exchange‐listed firm cannot make an independent business decision if it has an affiliation with a conglomerate group. This is because the corporate board of a conglomerate‐affiliated firm (CAF) has high moral hazard exposure due to its accountability to the superior parent board at the apex of the conglomerate structure. Based on a sample of 304 listed firms from 18 countries, we find a CAF board is less independent than a standalone board with no superior reporting body. A firm's affiliation with the conglomerate per se affects its board independence, regardless of the parent shareholding level. The additional analysis finds that the lack of board independence significantly impacts a CAF's financial performance, although the market impact is insignificant.
Inhibiting scar formation via wearable multilayer stacked electret patch: Self‐creation of persistent and customizable DC electric field for fibrogenic activity restriction
Authors: Kim Sung‐Won , Cho Sumin , Lee Donghan , Hyun Jiyu , Jang Sunmin , Seo Inwoo , Park Hyun Su , Hwang Hee Jae , Han Hyung‐Seop , Yang Dae Hyeok , Chun Heung Jae , Bhang Suk Ho , Choi Dongwhi
Published: October 2023

Electrical stimulation has recently received attention as noninvasive treatment in skin wound healing with its outstanding biological property for clinical setting. However, the complexity of equipment for applying appropriate electrical stimulation remains an ongoing challenge. Here, we proposed a strategy for skin scar inhibition by providing electrical stimulation via a multilayer stacked electret (MS‐electret), which can generate direct current (DC) electric field (EF) without any power supply equipment. In addition, the MS‐electret can easily control the intensity of EFs by simply stacking electret layers and maintain stable EF with the surface potential of 3400 V over 5 days owing to the injected charges on the electret surface. We confirmed inhibition of type 1 collagen and α‐SMA expression of human dermal fibroblasts (hDFs) by 90% and 44% in vitro, indicating that the transition of hDFs to myofibroblasts was restricted by applying stable electrical stimulation. We further revealed a 20% significant decrease in the ratio of myofibroblasts caused by the MS‐electret in vivo. These findings present that the MS‐electret is an outstanding candidate for effective skin scar inhibition with a battery‐free, physiological electrical microenvironment, and noninvasive treatment that allows it to prevent external infection.

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Dornase Alfa: A New Option in the Management of Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Witt Daniel M. , Anderson Leigh
Published: October 2023

Recombinant human DNase I, or dornase alfa, is the first new therapy developed specifically for cystic fibrosis in almost 30 years. It selectively digests extracellular DNA and reduces the viscosity of purulent sputum. In clinical trials dornase alfa modestly improved pulmonary function, slightly decreasing the number of respiratory exacerbations requiring parenteral antibiotics compared with placebo. Phase III studies suggest that patients receiving dornase alfa also spend slightly fewer days in the hospital than those treated with placebo. The aerosolized preparation is safe and generally well tolerated. Voice alteration and sore throat are the most commonly reported adverse effects. Further research is necessary to determine the optimum time to initiate therapy and to evaluate the agent's pharmacoeconomic impact on the treatment of cystic fibrosis. Aerosolized dornase alfa should always be given in conjunction with standard cystic fibrosis therapies including antibiotics, chest physiotherapy, and pancreatic enzyme supplementation.
Extent of Community‐Based Delivery of Pharmaceutical Care in Virginia
Authors: Sisson Evan M. , Israel Marc K.
Published: October 2023

This study attempted to define the characteristics and process components of pharmaceutical care, and to quantify the extent to which they compare in community pharmacists' perception of practice. Published literature and personal interviews were synthesized into a 75‐question, cross‐sectional, self‐evaluated survey that was sent to all in‐state members of the Virginia Pharmacists Association. A Community‐based Pharmaceutical Care Index (CPCI) was developed to categorize and compare respondents. Individuals with scores greater than 1 standard deviation above (CPCI > 72.6, 14%, n=91) and below (CPCI ≤ 44.3, 16%, n=106) the mean (CPCI = 58.4) were defined as high‐and low‐CPCI pharmacists, respectively The response rate for the survey was 58% (972/1672). The high‐CPCI pharmacists practiced predominantly in independently owned pharmacies in rural Virginia and appeared to have good rapport with their patients and local physicians. The presence of high‐CPCI pharmacists working in chain‐owned pharmacies indicated that the setting was not the only factor determining the decision to practice pharmaceutical care. As the prescription volume increased beyond 150/day, the number of high‐CPCI pharmacists able to maintain their practice style rapidly declined. The CPCI allows differentiation and comparison of individual pharmacists along the spectrum of patient care.
Single‐Dose, Placebo‐Controlled, Phase I Study of Oral Dolasetron
Authors: Dixon Russell M. , Cramer Michael , Shah Ajit K. , Whitmore James , Benedict Claude R. , Hahne William F.
Published: October 2023

Study Objectives. To evaluate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of single, escalating doses of oral dolasetron mesylate, a new 5‐HT3 receptor antagonist.

Design. Double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐escalating phase I study.

Setting. A clinical research center.

Patients. One hundred twenty healthy male volunteers.

Interventions. Subjects received either placebo or oral dolasetron mesylate 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, or 400 mg.

Measurements and Main Results. Compared with placebo, subjects receiving dolasetron mesylate reported a greater frequency of headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, increased appetite, and nausea. There were no clinically significant changes in mean laboratory values from before to after treatment. Adverse events were transient, mild or moderate, and similar to those after single intravenous doses of the drug. No clinically significant electrocardiographic changes occurred, but lengthening of the QRS complex duration and dose‐dependent lengthening of PR and QTc intervals were observed 1–2 hours after dosing. These effects were asymptomatic and were mainly associated with higher doses (≥ 300 mg).

Conclusion. Dolasetron mesylate is well tolerated when administered in single oral doses up to 400 mg to healthy volunteers. Clinical trials are under way to evaluate the agent's efficacy in preventing chemotherapy‐induced and postoperative nausea and vomiting with doses up to 200 mg.
Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors in Left Ventricular Dysfunction
Authors: Linn William D.
Published: October 2023

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have been used for more than a decade in the treatment of chronic congestive heart failure. In recent years these agents have been used in patients who survived a myocardial infarction. However, primary care providers are often confused as to which patients would benefit the most, and as a result, these life‐prolonging drugs are underutilized. The results of randomized controlled trials evaluating ACE inhibitors' effects on morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic congestive heart failure or acute myocardial infarction were evaluated. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors clearly improve survival in patients with symptomatic congestive heart failure. This survival benefit is approximately 6 months. In patients with asymptomatic systolic dysfunction, these agents also decrease the number of hospital admissions due to heart failure. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors also improve survival in all patients who experienced an acute myocardial infarction. With the plethora of evidence regarding the positive effects that this class of drugs has on the quality of life and survival of patients with systolic dysfunction, it is still unclear why clinicians are reluctant to use them more often. Primary care providers need to be educated on how to risk stratify patients to make this therapy more cost effective, and when these agents should be started.
The Mutated Androgen Receptor and Its Implications for the Treatment of Metastatic Carcinoma of the Prostate
Authors: Middleman Matthew N. , Lush Richard M. , Figg William D.
Published: October 2023

Androgen deprivation is the most effective therapy for patients with advanced prostatic carcinoma. The lack of androgen stimulation on these cells causes them to become apoptotic. Although therapeutic efficacy of initial androgen deprivation in prostate cancer is high, the emergence of androgen‐independent cancer is inevitable. Withdrawal of the antiandrogen flutamide elicits surprising activity in these cancers. In numerous studies the response rates cell line harbors a mutation in codon 877 of the androgen receptor. The mutant receptor loses androgen specificity and is activated by various steroids as well as flutamide. Identical and similar mutations have now been isolated from human prostate cancer tissue. The discovery of the mutated androgen receptor sheds light on the emergence of androgen‐independent cancer and should facilitate the development of more efficacious therapies.
Appropriateness of Iron Prescribing: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Abernathy Karen A. , Meuleman John R.
Published: October 2023

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 120 patients who received an initial prescription of iron from a resident physician in internal medicine to determine how accurately house officers diagnose iron‐deficiency anemia before initiating iron therapy. Each patient's laboratory records were reviewed for the 3‐month period before the prescription. Of the 120 patients, 77 (64%) did not have any iron tests performed to aid in the diagnosis of iron‐deficiency anemia. Forty‐three percent of those who had iron tests did not have the disorder by our criteria. Ferritin levels and iron profiles are often not measured in patients prescribed iron, and when they are, they are frequently misinterpreted by medical house officers. This can lead to inappropriate gastrointestinal procedures as well as inappropriate prescribing of iron.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Subcutaneous Interleukin‐2 in HIV‐Infected Patients
Authors: Piscitelli Stephen C. , Wells Mary J. , Metcalf Julia A. , Baseler Michael , Stevens Randy , Davey Richard T.
Published: October 2023

Study Objectives. To assess the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of subcutaneously administered interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Design. Open, dose‐escalating phase I clinical trial.

Setting. Government research hospital.

Patients. Eighteen patients infected with HIV.

Interventions. Recombinant IL‐2 at dosages of 12, 15, or 18 MIU/day was administered subcutaneously once or twice/day for 5 consecutive days every 2 months. A total of 28 cycles of therapy were included in the analysis.

Measurements and Main Results. Concentrations of IL‐2 in serum were determined by a commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Interleukin‐2 was well absorbed, with peak concentrations from 21.9–112.9 IU/ml. Absorption was slow, with mean (± SD) time to maximum of 4.4 ± 1.8 hours and a lag time of 26.9 ± 13.7 minutes. Elimination half‐life was 3.3 ± 0.9 hours. The concentrations had wide variability both within and among patients. Levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α were increased. Maximum body temperature and systemic side effects were associated with peak serum levels.

Conclusion. Interleukin‐2 is well absorbed after subcutaneous injection in HIV‐infected patients, and that route of administration is an alternative to intravenous infusions.
The Influence of Multiple Dosing and Age on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Glipizide in Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Jaber Linda A. , Ducharme Murray P. , Edwards David J. , Slaughter Richard L. , Grunberger George
Published: October 2023

Study Objectives. To determine the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of glipizide after a single dose and 12 weeks of dosing in patients with type II diabetes mellitus, and evaluate the influence of aging.

Design. Comparison of single and multiple doses of glipizide.

Setting. University‐affiliated outpatient internal medicine clinic and diabetes care unit.

Patients. Twenty patients (11 men, 9 women, mean age 55.2 ± 9.9 yrs) with type II diabetes mellitus who were currently receiving oral hypoglycemic agents or were hyperglycemic with diet.

Interventions. A 24‐hour pharmacokinetic evaluation of glipizide was assessed after a 5‐mg dose at the start of therapy and after 12 weeks of therapy. Pharmacokinetic parameters were assessed using compartmental population analysis techniques. Glipizide pharmacodynamic evaluation was assessed by serum glucose, insulin, and C‐peptide responses during a 4‐hour Sustacal tolerance test performed at baseline before instituting glipizide therapy, with the first 5‐mg dose, and at week 12 of therapy. Glipizide dosages were titrated to a targeted goal of fasting plasma glucose of 7.8 mmol/L or less or to reach maximum daily doses of 40 mg.

Measurements and Main Results. No significant differences in time to peak concentration, apparent volumes of distribution for the central and peripheral compartments, apparent oral clearance from the central compartment, distributional clearance between the central and peripheral compartments, or terminal elimination half‐life were observed with a single dose and long‐term dosing. The mean ± SD terminal elimination half‐lives were 9.67 ± 5.6 and 9.35 ± 4.6 hours after a single dose and 12 weeks, respectively. Fasting plasma glucose concentrations decreased from 12.3 ± 3.6 mmol/L before the first dose of glipizide to 9.2 ± 1.7 mmol/L after 12 weeks of treatment. The values for area under the serum concentration‐time curve from zero to 4 hours for glucose (AUC0–4.glucose) were significantly reduced at week 12 (baseline 49.8 ± 15.6, week 12 37.8 ± 9.8 mmol/L/hr). Glipizide provoked an increase in serum insulin and C‐peptide concentrations (AUC0–4.insulin: baseline 698 ± 327, single dose 954 ± 461, long‐term dosing 945 ± 600 pmol/L/hr). No significant change in insulin response was observed between single and multiple doses. No age‐related differences in the pharmacokinetic parameters or the pharmacodynamic responses of glipizide were observed.

Conclusions. Long‐term dosing and aging have little effect on the pharmacokinetic profile of glipizide. In addition, glipizide stimulates insulin secretion to a similar extent following glucose challenge after a single dose and long‐term administration.
Pharmacokinetics of Aztreonam and Imipenem in Critically Ill Patients with Pneumonia
Authors: McKindley David S. , Boucher Bradley A. , Hess Mary M. , Croce Martin A. , Fabian Timothy C.
Published: October 2023

Study Objective. To evaluate the pharmacokinetic profiles of aztreonam and imipenem in critically ill trauma patients with pneumonia.

Methods. Trauma patients in intensive care units who were intubated within 3 days of hospital admission were eligible for the study. Patients with the clinical diagnosis of pneumonia were consecutively randomized to receive either aztreonam plus vancomycin or imipenem‐cilastatin. Serial blood samples were taken and sputum was collected to determine aztreonam and imipenem concentrations after 2–3 days and 7–8 days of therapy. Pharmacokinetics of both agents were estimated and compared with estimates from healthy volunteers.

Results. Twenty patients were enrolled in the study, 10 patients received imipenem‐cilastatin, and 10 received aztreonam plus vancomycin. Steady‐state volume of distribution (Vss) for aztreonam at 2–3 days and 7–8 days was significantly greater in patients than in historical controls, whereas the Vss for imipenem was greater at 2–3 days. The β‐half‐life for aztreonam at both sampling periods was significantly greater in patients than in controls. No significant changes in pharmacokinetics occurred over time for either antibiotic. Sputum concentrations of aztreonam and imipenem were highly variable when sampled 2 hours after the infusion.

Conclusion. Larger volumes of distribution were observed for both aztreonam and imipenem in trauma patients than in volunteers, suggesting that standard initial dosages of the antibiotics may result in lower concentrations in these critically ill patients. Both antibiotics penetrated into the sputum of most patients; however, the degree of penetration was highly variable in relation to serum concentrations.
Hiccups: A Treatment Review
Authors: Friedman Nancy L.
Published: October 2023

A MEDLINE search of the National Library of Medicine data base from 1966–1994 was performed to review the anatomy and pathophysiology of intractable hiccups and their nondrug and drug therapies. Pertinent articles were further reviewed for older references and related literature. The infrequent occurrence of intractable hiccups makes it difficult to perform large, well‐controlled clinical trials. The only approved drug for the disorder, chlorpromazine, may not be acceptable for every patient. Studies have been conducted with metoclopramide, valproic acid, nifedipine, and baclofen as alternative therapies.