bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single‐Nucleus RNA Sequencing Unravels Early Mechanisms of Human Becker Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Xie Zhihao , Liu Chang , Sun Chengyue , Liu Yilin , Peng Jieru , Meng Lingchao , Deng Jianwen , Wang Zhaoxia , Yang Chunxia , Yuan Yun , Xie Zhiying
Published: August 2024

Objective

The transcriptional heterogeneity at a single‐nucleus level in human Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) dystrophic muscle has not been explored. Here, we aimed to understand the transcriptional heterogeneity associated with myonuclei, as well as other mononucleated cell types that underly BMD pathogenesis by performing single‐nucleus RNA sequencing.

Methods

We profiled single‐nucleus transcriptional profiles of skeletal muscle samples from 7 BMD patients and 3 normal controls.

Results

A total of 17,216 nuclei (12,879 from BMD patients and 4,337 from controls) were classified into 13 known cell types, including 9 myogenic lineages and 4 non‐myogenic lineages, and 1 unclassified nuclear type according to their cell identities. Among them, type IIx myonuclei were the first to degenerate in response to dystrophin reduction. Differential expression analysis revealed that the fibro‐adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) population had the largest transcriptional changes among all cell types. Sub‐clustering analysis identified a significantly compositional increase in the activated FAPs (aFAPs) subpopulation in BMD muscles. Pseudotime analysis, regulon inference, and deconvolution analysis of bulk RNA‐sequencing data derived from 29 BMD patients revealed that the aFAPs subpopulation, a distinctive and previously unrecognized mononuclear subtype, was profibrogenic and expanded in BMD patients. Muscle quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence analysis confirmed that the mRNA and protein levels of the aFAPs markers including LUM, DCN, and COL1A1 in BMD patients were significantly higher than those in controls, respectively.

Interpretation

Our results provide insights into the transcriptional diversity of human BMD muscle at a single‐nucleus resolution and new potential targets for anti‐fibrosis therapies in BMD. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:1070–1085
Interfacial Engineering of Polymer Membranes with Intrinsic Microporosity for Dendrite‐Free Zinc Metal Batteries
Authors: Tan Rui , He Hongzhen , Wang Anqi , Wong Toby , Yang Yilin , Iguodala Sunshine , Ye Chunchun , Liu Dezhi , Fan Zhiyu , Furedi Mate , He Guanjie , Guldin Stefan , Brett Dan J. L. , McKeown Neil B. , Song Qilei
Published: August 2024

Metallic zinc has emerged as a promising anode material for high‐energy battery systems due to its high theoretical capacity (820 mAh g−1), low redox potential for two‐electron reactions, cost‐effectiveness and inherent safety. However, current zinc metal batteries face challenges in low coulombic efficiency and limited longevity due to uncontrollable dendrite growth, the corrosive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and decomposition of the aqueous ZnSO4 electrolyte. Here, we report an interfacial‐engineering approach to mitigate dendrite growth and reduce corrosive reactions through the design of ultrathin selective membranes coated on the zinc anodes. The submicron‐thick membranes derived from polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs), featuring pores with tunable interconnectivity, facilitate regulated transport of Zn2+‐ions, thereby promoting a uniform plating/stripping process. Benefiting from the protection by PIM membranes, zinc symmetric cells deliver a stable cycling performance over 1500 h at 1 mA/cm2 with a capacity of 0.5 mAh while full cells with NaMnO2 cathode operate stably at 1 A g−1 over 300 cycles without capacity decay. Our work represents a new strategy of preparing multi‐functional membranes that can advance the development of safe and stable zinc metal batteries.
Understanding the Wettability of C1N1 (Sub)Nanopores: Implications for Porous Carbonaceous Electrodes
Authors: Lamata‐Bermejo Irene , Keil Waldemar , Nolkemper Karlo , Heske Julian , Kossmann Janina , Elgabarty Hossam , Wortmann Martin , Chorążewski Mirosław , Schmidt Claudia , Kühne Thomas D. , López‐Salas Nieves , Odziomek Mateusz
Published: August 2024

Understanding how water interacts with nanopores of carbonaceous electrodes is crucial for energy storage and conversion applications. A high surface area of carbonaceous materials does not necessarily need to translate to a high electrolyte‐solid interface area. Herein, we study the interaction of water with nanoporous C1N1 materials to explain their very low specific capacitance in aqueous electrolytes despite their high surface area. Water was used to probe chemical environments, provided by pores of different sizes, in 1H MAS NMR experiments. We observe that regardless of their high hydrophilicity, only a negligible portion of water can enter the nanopores of C1N1, in contrast to a reference pure carbon material with a similar pore structure. The common paradigm that water easily enters hydrophilic pores does not apply to C1N1 nanopores below a few nanometers. Calorimetric and sorption experiments demonstrated strong water adsorption on the C1N1 surface, which restricts water mobility across the interface and impedes its penetration into the nanopores.
Halogen Bonding Initiated Difunctionalization of [1.1.1]Propellane via Photoinduced Polarity Match Additions
Authors: Yi Liang , Kong Deshen , Prabhakar Kale Ajit , Alshehri Rawan , Yue Huifeng , Gizatullin Amir , Maity Bholanath , Kancherla Rajesh , Cavallo Luigi , Rueping Magnus
Published: August 2024

Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP), recognized as a bioisostere for para‐disubstituted benzene, has gained widespread interest in drug development due to its ability to enhance the physicochemical properties of pharmaceuticals. In this work, we introduce a photoinduced, halogen bonding‐initiated, metal‐free strategy for synthesizing various BCP derivatives. This method involves the generation of nucleophilic α‐aminoalkyl radicals via halogen‐bonding adducts. These undergo selective radical addition to [1.1.1]propellane, yielding electrophilic BCP radicals that subsequently participate in polarity‐matched additions, culminating in the difunctionalization of bicyclopentane. The versatility and practicality of this metal‐free approach are underscored by its broad substrate scope, which includes late‐stage functionalization and a series of valuable transformations, all conducted under mild reaction conditions.
The Art of Speaking Up: Supporting a Culture of Safety in the OR
Authors: Wright M. Imelda , Kernen Karrie , Kouevi Dela
Published: August 2024

Considering the high‐risk, stressful, and fast‐paced nature of the perioperative environment and vulnerability of surgical patients, the quest for maintaining a safety culture in the OR is ongoing. Speaking up—an interaction between perioperative team members to address a concern—requires team member empowerment to advocate for patient safety when needed. Hierarchical gradients, lack of psychological safety, incivility, and a nonsupportive organizational culture can impede speaking‐up behaviors. Strategies to improve speaking up include using multimethod education initiatives, enhancing psychological safety, and managing conflict. Perioperative nurses can experience barriers to speaking up, such as lack of team familiarity, normalization of deviance, and differing perceptions among team members. The logistics of whole‐team training initiatives can be challenging; however, such initiatives can help participants improve their understanding of the perspectives and communication goals of all involved personnel. Perioperative nurses and leaders should collaborate to promote speaking up for safety when warranted.
Investigation of antitumor activity and albumin interaction of new sulfosalicylate‐based complex by spectroscopic and computational approaches
Authors: Behroozi Roghayeh , Dehghanian Effat , Mansouri‐Torshizi Hassan
Published: August 2024

In the present study, the drug delivery by albumin protein and antiproliferetaive activity of new transition metal complex i.e., [Pd (phen)(SSA)] (where phen and SSA represent 1, 10 phenanthroline and sulfosalicylic acid, respectively) was investigated. DFT (density functional theory) calculations were conducted at B3LYP level with 6‐311G(d,p)/aug‐ccpVTZ‐PP basis set for the purpose of geometry optimization, frontier molecular orbital (FMO) analysis, molecular electrostatic potential (MEP), and natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. Experimental tests were conducted to preliminarily assess the lipophilicity and antitumor activity of the metal complex, resulting in promising findings. In‐silico prediction was accomplished to assess its toxicity and bioavailability. To evaluate the binding of the newly formed complex with DNA (which results in halting the cell cycle) or serum albumin protein (drug transporter to the tissues), in‐silico molecular modeling was employed. Experimental results (spectroscopic and non‐spectroscopic) showed that the new compound interacts with each biomolecule via hydrogen bond and van der Waals interactions. Molecular docking demonstrated the binding of this complex to the DNA groove and site I of BSA occurs mainly through hydrogen bonds. Molecular dynamics simulation confirmed the interactions between [Pd (phen)(SSA)] with DNA or BSA through stable hydrogen bonds.
Analysis of structural defects and their influence on red‐emitting γ‐Al2O3:Mn4+,Mg2+ nanowires using positron annihilation spectroscopy
Authors: Hue Pham Thi , Hue Nguyen Thi Ngoc , Van Tiep Nguyen , Trung Nguyen Vu Minh , Phuc Phan Trong , Nguyen La Ly , Son Lo Thai , Trang Le Thi Quynh , Trung Ngo Dang , Hung Nguyen Quang , Tuyen Luu Anh , Duy Nguyen Hoang
Published: August 2024

The present paper reported on the analysis of structural defects and their influence on the red‐emitting γ‐Al2O3:Mn4+,Mg2+ nanowires using positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS). The nanowires were synthesized by hydrothermal method and low‐temperature post‐treatment using glucose as a reducing agent. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence (PL), and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) were utilized, respectively, for determining the structural phase, morphology and red‐emitting intensity in studied samples. Three PAS experiments, namely, positron annihilation lifetime (PAL), Doppler broadening (DB), and electron momentum distribution (EMD), were simultaneously performed to investigate the formations of structural defects in synthesized materials. Obtained results indicated that the doping concentration of 0.06% was optimal for the substitution of Mn4+ and Mg2+ to two Al3+ sites and the formation of oxygen vacancy (VO)‐rich vacancy clusters (2VAl + 3VO) and large voids (~0.7 nm) with less Al atoms. Those characteristics reduced the energy transfer between Mn4+ ions, thus consequently enhanced the PL and PLE intensities. Moreover, this optimal doping concentration also effectively controlled the size of nanopores (~2.18 nm); hence, it is expected to maintain the high thermal conductivity of γ‐Al2O3 nanowire‐phosphor. The present study, therefore, demonstrated a potential application of γ‐Al2O3 nanowire‐phosphor in fabricating the high‐performance optoelectronic devices.
Recent Progress on Cobalt‐Based Heterogeneous Catalysts for Hydrogen Production from Ammonia Borane
Authors: Li Yilin , Gao Xiaohan , Iv Xuechuan , Duan Ying , Sui Dong , Chang Wanting , Yang Yanliang
Published: August 2024

Ammonia borane (NH3BH3, AB) is a quintessential exemplar of chemical hydrogen storage materials and has been widely used in hydrogen evolution. Although expensive metal catalysts (such as Rh, Ru, Pt, Ag, etc.) exhibit high activity in the hydrolysis of ammonia borane, inexpensive metals are more economical. Cobalt (Co), in particular, is not only relatively inexpensive and readily available, but also possesses high activity and selectivity. Compared to other catalysts, cobalt‐based catalysts have better durability and can maintain catalytic activity for a longer period of time, making them favored by researchers. These catalysts demonstrate excellent stability, hydrogen evolution rate, and turn over frequency. This article summarized previous progress in low price metal cobalt‐based catalysts for hydrogen precipitation from ammonia borane, focusing on cobalt‐based catalysts supported on various supports, especially those supported on carbon materials, metal oxides, MOFs, and nickel foams. The characteristics of high‐performance catalytic systems are analyzed in detail. The development prospects of Co catalysts for hydrogen production from ammonia borane were also discussed. In summary, this review compiles various supported and other types of cobalt based catalysts in recent years, and also identifies the existing problems with these catalysts, providing a reference for developers to study these catalysts. It is believed that through careful regulation of the electronic and spatial structures of Co based catalysts, well‐designed Co based non precious metal catalysts will play a significant role in the decomposition of ammonia borane.
Multimodal treatment according to the NPC‐GPOH trials in adult patients with nasopharyngeal cancer—Analysis based on a single‐center experience
Authors: Leu Martin , Bohnenberger Hanibal , Guhlich Manuel , Schirmer Markus Anton , Pilavakis Yiannis , Wolff Hendrik Andreas , Rieken Stefan , Dröge Leif Hendrik
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

The German NPC‐GPOH trials introduced treatment including neoadjuvant chemotherapy, radiochemotherapy (RCT) and antiviral treatment in patients aged 25 years or younger with nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). We conducted a retrospective study on outcomes of patients at the age of ≥26 years treated accordingly at our institution.

Methods

Consecutive patients who received primary RCT for NPC were included. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate survival probabilities, and the Cox regression analysis was used to test for an influence of the variables on outcomes. Acute and late toxicity were evaluated via CTCAE criteria and LENT/SOMA criteria, respectively.

Results

In total, 30 patients were included. Diagnosis was made from 09/1994 to 11/2016. The median 5 year overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS), cancer‐specific survival (CSS) and locoregional recurrence‐free survival (LRC) were 75%, 56%, 83%, and 85%, respectively. We found a negative impact on outcomes (p < .05) in case of older age (OS), history of smoking (OS), and T4 stage/ UICC stage IV (DFS). WHO histologic type significantly influenced outcomes, with best outcomes for type III and worst outcomes for type I. The rates of acute and late toxicities were acceptable.

Conclusion

We found excellent outcomes and good feasibility of the NPC‐GPOH trials regimen in adult patients. Additionally, we identified patients with outcomes which need to be improved (smokers, histologic type I tumors) and with particularly excellent outcomes (histologic type III tumors). This stimulates further studies on treatment intensification or de‐escalation aiming at reduced side effects with optimal tumor control in NPC.
How Can the Filler‐Polymer Interaction in Mixed Matrix Membranes Be Enhanced?
Authors: Hasan Md. Rafiul , Coronas Joaquín
Published: August 2024

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) constitute a type of molecular separation membranes in which a nanomaterial type filler is dispersed in a given polymer to enhance its selective permeation ability. The key issue in MMMs is the establishing of a proper filler‐polymer interaction to avoid non‐selective transport paths while increasing permeability but also to improve other membrane properties such as aging and plasticization. Along the pass years several strategies have been applied to enhance the physicochemical interaction between the fillers (e. g. silicas, zeolites, porous coordination polymers, carbonaceous materials, etc.) and the membrane polymers: increase of external surface area, priming, use of intrinsically more compatible fillers, in situ synthesis of filler, in situ polymerization, polymer side‐chain modification and post‐synthetic modification of filler.
Mouse Models for the Study of Borrelia burgdorferi Infection
Authors: Olsen Kimberly J. , Sachan Shilpa , Baumgarth Nicole
Published: August 2024

Lyme disease, a tickborne illness caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, is an emerging, significant public health concern. B. burgdorferi infections are challenging to study because of their complex life cycle that requires adaptation to both ticks and mammalian hosts for long‐term survival and transmission. Bacterial adaptation is accomplished through extensive gene expression alterations in response to environmental cues that remain to be more fully explored. Mouse models of infection serve as valuable tools for studying B. burgdorferi adaptation to the mammalian host and the spirochete's ability to cause persistent infections and thus to interact with and evade the immune system. This article details three mouse models that differ in their primary methods of infection: infestation with B. burgdorferi infected ticks, intradermal inoculation of culture‐grown spirochetes, and infection via subcutaneous transplantation of infected tissue. Each method offers unique advantages and limitations. Tick infestation is the route of natural transmission but presents logistical challenges. Syringe inoculation is easy and provides precise control over the infectious dose, but infection is with culture‐adapted bacteria. Transplantation of infected tissue introduces mammalian‐host‐adapted B. burgdorferi in precise anatomical locations, but misses the transfer of tick factors affecting immunity. Detailed protocols are provided for each of the three infection routes, and pros and cons of each method are outlined to help researchers identify the best approach for a research question to be addressed. A protocol is also provided for the treatment of mice with antibiotics that reliably eliminates detectable spirochetes from the animals. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Syringe inoculation of mice with cultured B. burgdorferi and collection of necropsy tissues

Basic Protocol 2: Infection of mice with B. burgdorferi via tick infestation

Basic Protocol 3: Infection of mice with host‐adapted B. burgdorferi via tissue transplant

Support Protocol: Clearance of B. burgdorferi by antibiotic treatment
New Full‐Wave Rectifiers Based on the Plus‐Type Second‐Generation Current Conveyors
Authors: Yucehan Tolga , Yuce Erkan , Minaei Shahram , Psychalinos Costas
Published: August 2024

Two new full‐wave rectifiers (FWRs) based on two plus‐type second‐generation current conveyors are proposed in this paper. Also, the proposed FWR structures comprise two diodes and two grounded resistors without matching conditions. They are not affected from any bias voltage(s) and/or current(s); thus, they eliminate the need for extra circuitry. One of the proposed FWRs provides positive rectification, while the other offers negative rectification. Both proposed FWRs have high input impedance and gain. Simulation results are obtained through the SPICE program, and experimental results are provided.
Landscape change and alien invasions drive shifts in native lady beetle communities over a century
Authors: Perry Kayla I. , Bahlai Christie A. , Assal Timothy J. , Riley Christopher B. , Turo Katherine J. , Taylor Leo , Radl James , Delgado de la flor Yvan A. , Sivakoff Frances S. , Gardiner Mary M.
Published: August 2024

Understanding causes of insect population declines is essential for the development of successful conservation plans, but data limitations restrict assessment across spatial and temporal scales. Museum records represent a source of historical data that can be leveraged to investigate temporal trends in insect communities. Native lady beetle decline has been attributed to competition with established alien species and landscape change, but the relative importance of these drivers is difficult to measure with short‐term field‐based studies. We assessed distribution patterns for native lady beetles over 12 decades using museum records, and evaluated the relative importance of alien species and landscape change as factors contributing to changes in communities. We compiled occurrence records for 28 lady beetle species collected in Ohio, USA, from 1900 to 2018. Taxonomic beta‐diversity was used to evaluate changes in lady beetle community composition over time. To evaluate the relative influence of temporal, spatial, landscape, and community factors on the captures of native species, we constructed negative binomial generalized additive models. We report evidence of declines in captures for several native species. Importantly, the timing, severity, and drivers of these documented declines were species‐specific. Land cover change was associated with declines in captures, particularly for Coccinella novemnotata which declined prior to the arrival of alien species. Following the establishment and spread of alien lady beetles, processes of species loss/gain and turnover shifted communities toward the dominance of a few alien species beginning in the 1980s. Because factors associated with declines in captures were highly species‐specific, this emphasizes that mechanisms driving population losses cannot be generalized even among closely related native species. These findings also indicate the importance of museum holdings and the analysis of species‐level data when studying temporal trends in insect populations.
Modeling the current and future habitat suitability of Neltuma pallida in the dry forest of northern Peru under climate change scenarios to 2100
Authors: Barboza Elgar , Bravo Nino , Cotrina‐Sanchez Alexander , Salazar Wilian , Gálvez‐Paucar David , Gonzales Jhony , Saravia David , Valqui‐Valqui Lamberto , Cárdenas Gloria P. , Ocaña Jimmy , Cruz‐Luis Juancarlos , Arbizu Carlos I.
Published: August 2024

The development of anthropic activities and climate change effects impact worldwide species' ecosystems and habitats. Habitats' adequate prediction can be an important tool to assess current and future trends. In addition, it allows strategies development for their conservation. The Neltuma pallida of the forest region in northern Peru, although very significant, has experienced a decline in recent years. The objective of this research is to evaluate the current and future distribution and conservation status of N. pallida in the Peruvian dry forest under climate change (Location: Republic of Peru). A total of 132 forest presence records and 10 variables (bioclimatic, topographic, and soil) were processed and selected to obtain the current and future distribution for 2100, using Google Earth Engine (GEE), RStudio, and MaxEnt. The area under the curve values fell within the range of 0.93–0.95, demonstrating a strong predictive capability for both present and future potential habitats. The findings indicated that the likely range of habitats for N. pallida was shaped by factors such as the average temperature of wettest quarter, maximum temperature of warmest month, elevation, rainfall, and precipitation of driest month. The main suitable areas were in the central regions of the geographical departments of Tumbes, Piura, and Lambayeque, as well as in the northern part of La Libertad. It is critical to determine the habitat suitability of plant species for conservation managers since this information stimulates the development of policies that favor sustainable use programs. In addition, these results can contribute significantly to identify new areas for designing strategies for populations conserving and recovering with an ecological restoration approach.
Remote sensing for site selection in vegetation survey along a successional gradient in post‐industrial vegetation
Authors: Anibaba Quadri A. , Dyderski Marcin K. , Woźniak Gabriela , Jagodziński Andrzej M.
Published: August 2024

Vegetation characteristics are an important proxy to measure the outcome of ecological restoration and monitor vegetation changes. Similarly, the classification of remotely sensed images is a prerequisite for many field ecological studies. We have a limited understanding of how the remote sensing approach can be utilized to classify spontaneous vegetation in post‐industrial spoil heaps that dominate urban areas. We aimed to assess whether an objective a priori classification of vegetation using remotely sensed data allows for ecologically interpretable division. We hypothesized that remote sensing‐based vegetation clusters will differ in alpha diversity, species, and functional composition; thereby providing ecologically interpretable division of study sites for further analyses. We acquired remote‐sensing data from Sentinel 2A for each studied heap from July to September 2020. We recorded vascular plant species and their abundance across 400 plots on a post‐coal mine in Upper Silesia, Poland. We assessed differences in alpha diversity indices and community‐weighted means (CWMs) among remote sensing‐based vegetation units. Analysis of remotely sensed characteristics revealed five clusters that reflected transition in vegetation across successional gradients. Analysis of species composition showed that the 1st (early‐succession), 3rd (late‐succession), and 5th (mid‐succession) clusters had 13, 10, and 12 exclusive indicator species, respectively, however, the 2nd and 4th clusters had only one species. While the 1st, 2nd, and 4th can be combined into a single cluster (early‐succession), we found the lowest species richness in the 3rd cluster (late‐succession) and the highest in the 5th cluster (mid‐succession). Shannon's diversity index revealed a similar trend. In contrast, the 3rd cluster (late‐succession) had significantly higher phylogenetic diversity. The 3rd cluster (late‐succession) had the lowest functional richness and the highest functional dispersion. Our approach underscored the significance of a priori classification of vegetation using remote sensing for vegetation surveys. It also highlighted differences between vegetation types along a successional gradient in post‐mining spoil heaps.
Synthesis and Characterization of Diacylthiourea and Diacylthioureato Cu(I) Complexes
Authors: Huo Shuai‐Cong , Ji Peng‐Fei , Wang Piao , Chen Li‐Ping , Wang Wei‐Jue , Yang Ying
Published: August 2024

A series of six disubstituted diacylthioureas 1,3‐ and 1,4‐C6H4[C(O)NHC(S)NR1R2]2 (L1–6) were synthesized with varied Rn substituents (R1=R2=Et for L1,2; R1=R2=Bn for L3,4; R1=iPr and R2=Ph for L5 (1) and L6 (2)). Treatment of Ln with Cu(I) halide precursors CuX(PPh3)3 (X=Cl, Br, I) produced the discrete binuclear adducts Ln[CuX(PPh3)2]2 (3–11 and 14–16; n=1–3 and 6) by binding to Cu(I) centres via the monodentate‐S mode. In contrast, L4 and L5 yielded only the chloride products of binuclear L4[CuCl(PPh3)2]2 (12) and mononuclear L5CuCl(PPh3)2 (13), respectively, with one S arm in the latter remaining dangling, while bromide or iodide analogues were not available for L4 and L5, possibly due to the steric hindrance imposed by larger halide anions or bulky isopropyl substituents. The reactions of Ln with nitrate [Cu(NO3)(PPh3)2] led to the double‐deprotonation of ligand protons to generate dianions Ln′ (1,3‐/1,4‐C6H4[C(O)NC(S)NR1R2]22−) and led to the consequent formation of binuclear diacylthioureato Cu(I) complexes Ln′[Cu(PPh3)2]2 (n=1 (17), 2 (18), 4 (19)) via the κ‐O,S‐bidentate mode. The obtained ligands and complexes were spectroscopically and structurally characterized. These Cu(I) products (3–19) were experimentally used as catalysts for the oxidation of 1‐phenylethanol.
Gene Expression Profiles of AHNAK2, DCSTAMP, FN1, and TERT Correlate With Mutational Status and Recurrence in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Staubitz‐Vernazza Julia I. , Müller Celine , Heymans Antonia , Nedwed Annekathrin Silvia , Schindeldecker Mario , Hartmann Monika , Kloth Michael , Schad Arno , Roth Wilfried , Musholt Thomas J. , Hartmann Nils
Published: August 2024

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), the most common malignancy of follicular cell derivation, is generally associated with good prognosis. Nevertheless, it is important to identify patients with aggressive PTCs and unfavorable outcome. Molecular markers such as BRAFV600E mutation and TERT promoter mutations have been proposed for risk stratification. While TERT promoter mutations have been frequently associated with aggressive PTCs, the association of BRAFV600E mutation with increased recurrence and mortality is less clear and has been controversially discussed. The aim of the present study was to analyze whether differentially expressed genes can predict BRAFV600E mutations as well as TERT promoter mutations in PTCs. RNA sequencing identified a large number of differentially expressed genes between BRAFV600E and BRAFwildtype PTCs. Of those, AHNAK2, DCSTAMP, and FN1 could be confirmed in a larger cohort (n = 91) to be significantly upregulated in BRAFV600E mutant PTCs using quantitative RT‐PCR. Moreover, individual PTC expression values of DCSTAMP and FN1 were able to predict the BRAFV600E mutation status with high sensitivity and specificity. The expression of TERT was detected in all PTCs harboring TERT promoter mutations and in 19% of PTCs without TERT promoter mutations. Tumors with both TERT expression and TERT promoter mutations were particularly associated with aggressive clinicopathological features and a shorter recurrence‐free survival. Altogether, it will be interesting to explore the biological function of AHNAK2, DCSTAMP, and FN1 in PTC in more detail. The analysis of their expression patterns could allow the characterization of PTC subtypes and thus enabling a more individualized surgical and medical treatment.
Validation of the Optimal University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale Cutoff Score in Screening for the Prevention of Disability Occurrence Among Older Japanese Adults
Authors: Tomida Kouki , Shimoda Takahiro , Nakajima Chika , Kawakami Ayuka , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The association between loneliness and disability is a growing public health priority. While the University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale (UCLA‐LS) has been internationally used as an indicator for assessing loneliness, its optimal cutoff point in relation to disability occurrence has not yet been examined. Therefore, we aimed to determine the optimal cutoff point of the UCLA‐LS regarding future disability.

Methods

This longitudinal cohort study was conducted in Tokai City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. Overall, 4536 community‐dwelling older adults (age: 73.8 ± 5.5 years; females: 55.2%) were followed up for 2 years. The area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic analysis was calculated to evaluate the optimal cutoff point of the UCLA‐LS in relation to future disability occurrence using the Youden index, which maximized the sensitivity and specificity of the UCLAS‐LS. A survival analysis was conducted to test this cutoff value's external validity, using the presence or absence of disability occurrence as the dependent variable.

Results

The cutoff score of the UCLA‐LS in relation to future disability was 44 points. An association was found between new disability occurrence and loneliness based on this cutoff value (hazard ratio: 1.67, 95% confidence interval: 1.29–2.16).

Conclusions

Although cultural context should be taken into account, the optimal cutoff scores for the loneliness scale related to disability identified in this study may be a useful indicator for early recognition of loneliness as a global public health problem and for promoting social participation as one of the disability prevention strategies.
Prediction of thermal efficiency of double pass solar air heater having discrete multi V and staggered ribs
Authors: Ravi Ravi Kant , Kumar Sanjay , Kumar Mukesh , Kumar Manoj , Verma Vikas , Alam Tabish , Yadav Anil Singh , Sharma Abhishek
Published: August 2024

This manuscript endeavors to elucidate a comprehensive analysis for the assessment of thermal efficiency in double pass solar air collectors augmented with fabricated roughness, instrumental in the generation of heated air for applications in heating and drying. The analytical procedure delineates comparisons between a smooth and a double‐sided, roughened absorber, characterized by discrete, multi V and staggered configurations of roughness. The analysis was performed for different roughness parameters including relative roughness width (W/w) from 4 to 8 and relative staggered rib size (r/e) from 1 to 4 and relative rib pitch (p′/p) from 0.2 to 0.8 while other parameters were kept constant. The research scrutinizes the impact of a constellation of parameters: the temperature rise coefficient (ΔT/I, varying between 0.002 and 0.02 K‐m²/W), Reynolds number (Re, spanning 2000–20,000), solar irradiance (I, ranging from 600 to 1000 W/m²), and the geometric variables of the artificial roughness, on both the thermal efficiency and efficiency enhancement factor of the collector. The study revealed that the roughened collector exhibits higher thermal efficiency compared to smooth collector for a similar condition. The extreme enhancement in thermal efficiency of the collector with roughness has been found to be 56.75% more than nonroughened collector for Re = 2000. A further observation was made that thermal efficiency has increased sharply for lower flow rate (Re < 10,000) whereas for higher flow rates (Re > 10,000), this increase becomes nearly asymptotic. In addition, the efficiency enhancement factor has also been found to increase with an increase in ΔT/I. A peak value of 2.321 has been found to be obtained for the efficiency enhancement factor for ΔT/I = 0.02 K‐m2/W and I = 1000 W/m2 as a result of the studies conducted.
NDRG2 regulates glucose metabolism and ferroptosis of OGD/R‐treated astrocytes by the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling
Authors: Wu Lin , Cheng Yingying , Wang Runfeng , Sun Shukai , Ma Bo , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: August 2024

Ischemic stroke is one main type of cerebrovascular disorders with leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Astrocytes are the only nerve cell type storing glycogen in the brain, which regulate the glucose metabolism and handle the energy supply and survive of neurons. Astrocyte ferroptosis contributes to neuron injury in brain disorders. N‐myc downstream‐regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) has been implicated in the progression of brain diseases, including ischemic stroke. However, whether NDRG2 could affect the glucose metabolism and ferroptosis of astrocytes during ischemic stroke remains largely unknown. Mouse astrocytes were treated with oxygen‐glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) to establish the in vitro model. Glial fibrillary acidic protein, NDRG2, Wnt3a and β‐catenin expression levels were detected by immunofluorescence staining and western blot analyses. Glucose metabolism was investigated by glucose uptake, lactate production, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH/NADP+), ATP and glycolysis enzymes (HK2, PKM2 and lactate dehydrogenase A [LDHA]) levels. Ferroptosis was assessed via reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), iron and ferroptosis‐related markers (GPX4 and PTGS2) contents. Glycolysis enzymes and ferroptosis‐related markers levels were measured via western blot. NDRG2 expression was elevated in OGD/R‐induced astrocytes. NDRG2 overexpression aggravated OGD/R‐induced loss of glucose metabolism through reducing glucose uptake, lactate production, NADPH/NADP+ and ATP levels. NDRG2 upregulation exacerbated OGD/R‐caused reduction of glycolysis enzymes (HK2, PKM2 and LDHA) levels. NDRG2 promoted OGD/R‐induced ferroptosis of astrocytes by increasing ROS, iron and PTGS2 levels and decreasing GSH and GPX4 levels. NDRG2 overexpression enhanced OGD/R‐induced decrease of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling activation by reducing Wnt3a and β‐catenin expression. NDRG2 silencing played an opposite effect. Inhibition of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling activation by IWR‐1 attenuated the influences of NDRG2 knockdown on glucose metabolism, glycolysis enzymes levels and ferroptosis. These findings demonstrated that NDRG2 contributes to OGD/R‐induced inhibition of glucose metabolism and promotion of ferroptosis in astrocytes through inhibiting Wnt/β‐catenin signaling activation, which might be associated with ischemic stroke progression.
AWGC2023 cachexia consensus as a valuable tool for predicting prognosis and burden in Chinese patients with cancer
Authors: Xie Hailun , Wei Lishuang , Ruan Guotian , Zhang Heyang , Shi Jinyu , Lin Shiqi , Liu Chenan , Liu Xiaoyue , Zheng Xin , Chen Yue , Chen Junqiang , Shi Hanping
Published: August 2024

Background

The Asian Working Group for Cachexia (AWGC) proposed the first consensus report on diagnostic criteria for cachexia in Asians in 2023. However, the current consensus lacks cohort evidence to validate its effectiveness and practicality. We aimed to explore the value of the AWGC2023 criteria for predicting the prognosis and medical burden of patients with cancer through a retrospective post hoc cross‐sectional analysis of the Investigation on Nutrition Status and its Clinical Outcome of Common Cancers (INSCOC) project in China.

Methods

Cox regression analyses were performed to assess the independent association between cachexia and long‐term survival. We utilized C‐reactive protein (CRP), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), inflammatory burden index (IBI), albumin (ALB) and Glasgow prognostic score (GPS) as diagnostic markers for cachexia, designating them as CRP‐based cachexia, NLR‐based cachexia, IBI‐based cachexia, ALB‐based cachexia and GPS‐based cachexia, respectively. Additionally, we diagnosed cachexia using body mass index (BMI) cutoff values of 18.5, 20, 21 and 22 kg/m2, respectively, and subsequently compared their prognostic predictive value through Harrell's concordance index (C‐index). Logistic regression models were used to assess the association between cachexia and medical burden.

Results

A total of 5426 patients with cancer were enrolled in this study. Cox regression analysis confirmed that cachexia based on the AWGC2023 criteria was an independent predictor of long‐term survival in patients with cancer. Patients with cachexia had significantly poorer long‐term survival than patients without cachexia (66.4% vs. 49.7%, P < 0.001). Inflammatory biomarker‐based cachexia was as an independent predictor of prognosis in patients with cancer, with inflammatory burden index (IBI)‐based cachexia demonstrating the optimal prognostic discriminatory ability. The C‐index indicated that cachexia based on BMI cutoff values of 18.5, 20, and 22 kg/m2 did not perform as well as a BMI cutoff value of 21 kg/m2. Logistic regression models revealed that using the AWGC2023 criteria, patients with cachexia had a 16.6% higher risk of prolonged hospitalization and a 16.0% higher risk of high medical expenses than patients without cachexia.

Conclusion

The AWGC2023 criteria represent a valuable tool for predicting survival and medical burden among Chinese patients with cancer. Encouragement for further validation in other Asian populations is warranted for the AWGC2023 criteria.
A very rare fetal echocardiography diagnosis: Sinus venosus type atrial septal defect with pulmonary venous return abnormality
Authors: Demirci Oya , Uygur Lütfiye
Published: August 2024

Atrial septal defect is diagnosed in 1 per 1500 live births. It is classified into four subtypes according to the location. We present the prenatal diagnosis of a fetal sinus venosus type atrial septal defect (SV‐ASD), which is very rarely diagnosed in the prenatal period.
Expanded carrier screening for inherited genetic disease using exome and genome sequencing
Authors: Belnap N. , Ramsey K. , Abraham A. , Ryan A. , Rangasamy S. , Bonfitto A. , Naymik M. , Huentelman M. , Strom S. , Perry D. , Subramaniam A. , Grody W. W. , Szelinger S. , Narayanan V.
Published: August 2024

The goal of this study was to assess the feasibility of using exome (ES) and genome sequencing (GS) in guiding preconception genetic screening (PCGS) for couples who are planning to conceive by creating a workflow for identifying risk alleles for autosomal recessive (AR) and X‐linked (XL) disorders without the constraints of a predetermined, targeted gene panel. There were several limitations and challenges related to reporting and the technical aspects of ES and GS, which are listed in the discussion. We selected 150 couples from a cohort of families (trios) enrolled in a research protocol where the goal was to define the genetic etiology of disease in an affected child. Pre‐existing, de‐identified parental sequencing data were analyzed to define variants that would place the couple at risk of having a child affected by an AR or XL disorder. We identified 17 families who would be selected for counseling about risk alleles. We noted that only 3 of these at‐risk couples would be identified if we limited ourselves to the current ACMG‐recommended expanded carrier screening gene panel. ES and GS successfully identified couples who are at risk of having a child with a rare AR or XL disorder that would have been missed by the current recommended guidelines. Current limitations of this approach include ethical concerns, difficulties in reporting results including variant calling due to the rare nature of some of the variants, determining which disorders to report, as well as technical difficulties in detecting certain variants such as repeat expansions.
Characteristics of cancer patients dying at home during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A study based on vital statistics from 2015 to 2022 in Japan
Authors: Sun Yu , Masuda Rie , Taniguchi Yuta , Iwagami Masao , Sakata Nobuo , Yoshie Satoru , Komiyama Jun , Yamagishi Kazumasa , Kihara Tomomi , Watanabe Taeko , Takahashi Hideto , Iso Hiroyasu , Tamiya Nanako
Published: August 2024

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has markedly affected end‐of‐life care, notably increasing home deaths among cancer patients in Japan. This study investigated the characteristics of cancer patients who died at home during the pandemic and the associated factors before and during the pandemic.

Methods

Vital statistics from January 2015 to December 2022 were analyzed to evaluate trends in home deaths among cancer patients aged 0 to 113 years, pre‐pandemic (January 2015 to March 2020) and during the pandemic (April 2020 to December 2022). Home deaths were assessed by demographics, including age, sex, marital status, and residential location. Multivariable modified Poisson regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with home deaths in both periods.

Results

Among 3,010,374 individuals, 11.6% (226,571/1,959,304) and 20.8% (218,429/1,051,070) died at home before and during the pandemic, respectively. In subgroup analysis depicting the trend of in‐home deaths by patient characteristics, only the age group showed a differential trend: the proportion of in‐home deaths was higher among older people before the pandemic, whereas it was higher among younger people during the pandemic. The multivariable analysis revealed the excess risk of in‐home deaths among people aged ≥65 years before the pandemic and among those aged <65 years during the pandemic.

Conclusions

The pandemic has increased home‐based end‐of‐life care for terminal cancer patients, particularly younger individuals, possibly due to hospital visit restrictions. Ensuring sufficient resources for both home and hospital care is vital to allow individuals to receive end‐of‐life care in their preferred settings.
Preventive effects of dietary fucoxanthin on ultraviolet A induced photoaging in hairless mice
Authors: Liu Shuyu , Mohri Shinsuke , Tsukamoto Masao , Yanai Yu , Manabe Yuki , Sugawara Tatsuya
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Repeated exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation, which can penetrate the epidermis and reach the dermis, is one of the major causes of skin photoaging. Photoaged skin is characterized clinically by generalized wrinkling, a dry and loose appearance, and seborrheic keratoses, along with skin barrier dysfunction. Fucoxanthin, a xanthophyll carotenoid with a specific allenic bond and 5,6‐monoepoxide in its structure, has been found to serve various functions as a food supplement. In the present study, the protective effects of orally administered fucoxanthin at relatively low concentrations (0.001% and 0.01%) against UVA induced photoaging were evaluated in vivo using hairless mice.

RESULTS

Oral supplementation of 0.001% fucoxanthin was sufficient for its metabolites to accumulate in the skin, thereby inhibiting pathological changes induced by UVA irradiation, including impaired skin barrier function and accelerated wrinkle formation. Analysis of gene expression revealed that dietary fucoxanthin exerted antiphotoaging effects, possibly by modulating natural moisturizing factor (NMF) synthesis, desquamation, and ceramide composition in the epidermis, and by inhibiting the UVA induced degradation of collagen fibers and inflammation in the dermis.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our data indicate the potential application of dietary fucoxanthin as a novel ingredient in nutricosmetics for skin care against photoaging. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Use of telehealth to improve healthcare access and outcomes in surgical oncology
Authors: Asare Elliot A. , Cowan Lauren , Onega Tracy
Published: August 2024

The dimensions of healthcare access includes availability, accessibility, accommodation, affordability, and accessibility. Many patients face significant barriers to accessing oncologic care and subsequently, health outcomes are suboptimal. Telehealth offers an opportunity to mitigate many of these barriers to improve health access and outcomes. This review discusses how telehealth can be leveraged to improve healthcare access in surgical oncology while also highlighting important challenges to realizing the full potential of this mode of healthcare delivery.
Conjoint influence of equal channel angular pressing and annealing on microstructure and mechanical properties of aluminum alloy 7075
Authors: Pouyafar V. , Malihi F. , Meshkabadi R.
Published: August 2024

The effect of equal channel angular pressing combined with inter‐pass and post‐process annealing on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the Al‐7075 alloy has been studied. The samples underwent successful equal channel angular pressing for three passes using the Bc route. The most significant changes in mechanical properties were observed after the first pass. Despite an 88 % reduction in grain size, the hardness of the alloy increased by 45 % and the fracture toughness decreased by 75 %. Post‐process annealing was found to be an effective method for enhancing the alloy‘s toughness. Annealing the one‐pass sample at 310 °C resulted in a 33 % increase in fracture toughness; from 15.8 J to 21.02 J. Inter‐pass annealing had a lesser impact on improving fracture toughness compared to post‐process annealing. It can be concluded that a balanced combination of strength and toughness can be achieved by utilizing a combination of equal channel angular pressing and inter‐pass or post‐process annealing. Examination of the fracture surfaces of the samples revealed intragranular fractures, with the annealed samples exhibiting higher energy absorption during impact and better toughness compared to the non‐annealed sample.