bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED: Whole‐body vibration versus supervised aerobic exercise on hormonal parameters and inflammatory status in women with premenstrual syndrome: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shehata Mai M.A. , Maged Ahmed M. , Kotb Amal , Ogila Asmaa I. , Lasheen Yossra , Salah Noha , Mohsen Reham A. , Fouad Mona , Abd‐Elazeim AlShaymaa S.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To compare the effects of whole‐body vibration (WBV) and aerobic exercise on the hormonal profile and inflammatory status in women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Methods

A prospective, randomized, pre–post‐test, single‐blind, controlled trial was conducted in 105 women diagnosed with PMS. They were randomized into three equal groups. All women received magnesium and vitamin B complex supplementation once daily. WBV training was added three times per week to the WBV group. The aerobic exercise group added aerobic exercise three times per week, while the control group received no additional intervention. The Premenstrual Syndrome Questionnaire (PMSQ) was used to assess PMS symptoms. Blood analysis was performed to measure hormone assays (estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, and cortisol) and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein at the start and after the end of the treatment program.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between WBV and aerobic exercise according to PMSQ and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (P = 0.99 and P = 0.98, respectively), but there was a statistically significant difference between both groups in cortisol, progesterone, prolactin, and estradiol (P = 0.001), with more favor given to the WBV group.

Conclusion

WBV and aerobic exercise have positive effects on women with PMS, with more favor given to WBV.
Mitochondrial–nuclear communication by FKBP51 shuttling
Authors: Zgajnar Nadia , Lagadari Mariana , Gallo Luciana I. , Piwien‐Pilipuk Graciela , Galigniana Mario D.
Published: February 2023

The HSP90‐binding immunophilin FKBP51 is a soluble protein that shows high homology and structural similarity with FKBP52. Both immunophilins are functionally divergent and often show antagonistic actions. They were first described in steroid receptor complexes, their exchange in the complex being the earliest known event in steroid receptor activation upon ligand binding. In addition to steroid‐related events, several pleiotropic actions of FKBP51 have emerged during the last years, ranging from cell differentiation and apoptosis to metabolic and psychiatric disorders. On the other hand, mitochondria play vital cellular roles in maintaining energy homeostasis, responding to stress conditions, and affecting cell cycle regulation, calcium signaling, redox homeostasis, and so forth. This is achieved by proteins that are encoded in both the nuclear genome and mitochondrial genes. This implies active nuclear‐mitochondrial communication to maintain cell homeostasis. Such communication involves factors that regulate nuclear and mitochondrial gene expression affecting the synthesis and recruitment of mitochondrial and nonmitochondrial proteins, and/or changes in the functional state of the mitochondria itself, which enable mitochondria to recover from stress. FKBP51 has emerged as a serious candidate to participate in these regulatory roles since it has been unexpectedly found in mitochondria showing antiapoptotic effects. Such localization involves the tetratricopeptide repeats domains of the immunophilin and not its intrinsic enzymatic activity of peptidylprolyl‐isomerase. Importantly, FKBP51 abandons the mitochondria and accumulates in the nucleus upon cell differentiation or during the onset of stress. Nuclear FKBP51 enhances the enzymatic activity of telomerase. The mitochondrial‐nuclear trafficking is reversible, and certain situations such as viral infections promote the opposite trafficking, that is, FKBP51 abandons the nucleus and accumulates in mitochondria. In this article, we review the latest findings related to the mitochondrial‐nuclear communication mediated by FKBP51 and speculate about the possible implications of this phenomenon.
Breaking free from a gang lifestyle: The use of a solution‐determined collaborative team to help transform a challenging and complex adolescent case situation
Authors: Selekman Matthew D.
Published: February 2023

This article presents the use of a solution‐determined collaborative team approach as an adjunct to family therapy with Jorge, a 14‐year‐old, with a long history of gang involvement, anger management difficulties, fighting with students and poor academic performance, verbally abusive towards some of his teachers and other school personnel, marijuana and alcohol abuse, and was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The use of solution‐determined collaborative teams can be the antidote for working with chronic and complex case situations with many helping professionals and concerned members from a family's social network involved and/or when conflicts are occurring between parents and school staff and with other larger systems professionals. The case example demonstrates the advantages of the concurrent use of a solution‐determined collaborative team comprised of as many of the involved helping professionals as possible and the family's identified key resource people from their social network, which combined with family therapy can help optimize for treatment success. In addition to discussing the mechanics of recruiting solution‐determined collaborative team members and the role of the hosting therapist, clinical situations where using this team approach is contraindicated are covered.
Determining factors in the overall happiness and outlook for the future of women living homeless: Evidence from Madrid, Spain
Authors: Cabrera Adrián , García‐Pérez Carmelo , Panadero Sonia , Vázquez José Juan
Published: February 2023

People living homeless are quite heterogeneous groups, including different subgroups with specific characteristics that vary substantially. Within this group, women living homeless are an understudied subgroup with specific necessities which in most cases have not been addressed in general studies related to the group. The present study examines determining factors that influence the levels of overall happiness and outlook for the future of women living homeless. To fulfill this objective, a survey was conducted on a group of women living homeless in the city of Madrid (Spain). The results of a structural equation modeling analysis found that having a larger and stable social support network, loneliness, and good health conditions without any problems associated with drug abuse are the main factors influencing their levels of overall happiness and their outlook for the future. The proposed model has also shown that stressful life events play an important role in the analysis, unlike economic aspects, which have a limited impact on their situation. This article provides new information and innovation in research about homelessness, in particular women living homeless, thus being important for extending and replicating its findings to an international context.
Protein inorganic hybrid nanoflowers of a microbial carbonic anhydrase as efficient tool for the conversion of CO2 into value added product
Authors: Sharma Tanvi , Nadda Ashok Kumar
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is one of the most widely distributed enzymes among plants, animals, and microorganisms, and it has an enormous ability to capture carbon dioxide (CO2). However, the real‐time application of CA is still a challenge due to its low operational stability, its difficulty in recovery from the reaction medium, and its poor durability.

RESULTS

The synthesis of insoluble protein inorganic hybrid structures at nanoscale was proven as quite useful to catalyze enzymatic biotransformation. Here, CA nanoflowers (CANF) were synthesized with the self‐assembly of metal phosphate and CA. The synthesis of CANF was performed using 0.2 mg mL−1 protein and 2.0 mM CuSO4 at 4 °C under mild shaking conditions. The CANF exhibited optimum activity at pH 7.5 and a temperature of 40°C. The synthesized CANF were used for CO2 conversion under optimized conditions and their kinetic parameters were studied using p‐NPA hydrolysis. The Vmax and Km of CANF were 185.18 μmol min−1  mL−1 and 4.72 mM, compared with those of free CA, 166.66 μmol min−1  mL−1 and 5.12 mM, respectively. The stability of CANF has improved remarkably. The CANF made of metal ions and protein showed higher stability and enzyme activity than free enzymes. Furthermore, the CANF showed good reusability due to their mechanical properties and monodispersity. The production of CaCO3 by CANF was 1.71‐fold higher than that by free CA.

CONCLUSION

The newly formed CANF showed flower‐like morphology with good catalytic activity. This study demonstrated that CANF technology has a bright future in the conversion of CO2 into CaCO3. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Cone‐beam computed tomography use in postgraduate orthodontic programs in North America and Europe
Authors: Guberman Jaime A. , Chung Chun‐Hsi , Li Chenshuang
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) has emerged over recent decades as a rapid acquisition technology that allows practitioners to view the craniofacial complex in high spatial detail. This study aimed to assess the latest trend of CBCT use in postgraduate orthodontic programs in North America and Europe/Australia.

Methods

An electronic multiple‐choice survey was sent via email requesting anonymous participation of postgraduate orthodontic program directors: 73 in North America (as listed on the American Association of Orthodontists website) and 189 in Europe/Australia (as listed on the European Orthodontic Society website). Survey collection was over a 2‐month period with two follow‐up emails sent 2 weeks and 1 month after the initial email to each program director who had not responded. Responses were collected directly on Qualtrics for analysis.

Results

The response rate was 46.6% (34 responses) for North America and 11.1% (21 responses) for Europe/Australia. Results revealed that 100% of respondents from North America had access to a CBCT scanner, while 90.48% of respondents (19 responses) from Europe/Australia had access. Most North American postgraduate orthodontic programs have CBCT scanners within their clinic, while most European/Australian programs do not, and they refer patients to the radiology department. Although there is a higher percentage of programs in North America compared to Europe/Australia that use CBCT as part of routine orthodontic records for all patients, most programs in both regions use CBCT imaging for specific diagnostic purposes and not for routine records.

Conclusion

Overall, North American programs have more access to CBCT scanners in postgraduate clinics and use CBCT imaging more routinely than European/Australian programs.
Serum MFAP4, a novel potential biomarker for liver cirrhosis screening, correlates with transient elastography in NAFLD patients
Authors: Kanaan Reine , Yaghi Cesar , Saade Riachy Carole , Schlosser Anders , Hamade Aline , Holmskov Uffe , Medlej‐Hashim Myrna , Sørensen Grith Lykke , Jounblat Rania
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading cause of chronic liver disease in different countries. Liver fibrosis is considered as the most appropriate predictor of NAFLD‐associated outcome. Microfibrillar‐associated protein 4 (MFAP4) is a glycoprotein located in the extracellular matrix. Circulatory MFAP4 has been suggested as a noninvasive biomarker for the assessment of hepatitis C virus and alcoholic liver disease associated liver fibrosis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between serum MFAP4 and liver fibrosis severity in NAFLD patients.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted in which NAFLD patients (n = 25) and healthy participants (n = 12) were recruited. Liver fibrosis/cirrhosis was assessed by transient elastography (TE) and biochemical parameters were collected. Serum MFAP4 was measured by sandwich ELISA based on two monoclonal anti‐MFAP4 antibodies and calibrated with a standard of recombinant MFAP4.

Results

Serum MFAP4 levels increased with fibrosis severity and were highly upregulated in patients with cirrhosis (F4 fibrosis stage). In addition, serum MFAP4 levels positively correlated with TE measurement and showed significant association with the severely advanced fibrotic stage in NAFLD patients, in multiple linear regression analysis following adjustment for age, gender, and body mass index.

Conclusion

This study suggests the use of MFAP4 as a potential diagnostic noninvasive biomarker for cirrhosis screening in NAFLD patients.
BACH1 promotes intervertebral disc degeneration by regulating HMOX1/GPX4 to mediate oxidative stress, ferroptosis, and lipid metabolism in nucleus pulposus cells
Authors: Yao Bo , Cai Youquan , Wan Li , Deng Jia , Zhao Lei , Wang Weiguo , Han Ziwei
Published: February 2023

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a primary health problem worldwide that involves oxidative stress, ferroptosis, and lipid metabolism. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We investigated whether the transcription factor BTB and CNC homology 1 (BACH1) affected IDD progression by regulating HMOX1/GPX4‐mediated ferroptosis and lipid metabolism in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs).

Methods

A rat IDD model was created to detect BACH1 expression in intervertebral disc tissues. Next, rat NPCs were isolated and treated with tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP). BACH1, HMOX1, and GPX4 were knocked down, and oxidative stress and ferroptosis‐related marker levels were examined. The binding of BACH1 to HMOX1 and of BACH1 to GPX4 was verified using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Finally, untargeted lipid metabolism analysis was performed.

Results

An IDD model was successfully created, and BACH1 activity was found to be enhanced in the rat IDD tissues. BACH1 inhibited TBHP‐induced oxidative stress and oxidative stress‐induced ferroptosis in NPCs. Simultaneously, ChIP verified that BACH1 protein bound to HMOX1 and targeted the HMOX1 transcription inhibition to affect oxidative stress in NPCs. ChIP also verified that BACH1 bound to GPX4 and targeted the GPX4 inhibition to affect ferroptosis in NPCs. Finally, BACH1 inhibition in vivo improved IDD and affected lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

The transcription factor BACH1 promoted IDD by regulating HMOX1/GPX4 to mediate oxidative stress, ferroptosis, and lipid metabolism in NPCs.
Effectiveness of different vaccine platforms in reducing mortality and length of ICU stay in severe and critical cases of COVID‐19 in the Omicron variant era: A national cohort study in Iran
Authors: Jamaati Hamidreza , Karimi Saeed , Ghorbani Fariba , Panahi Yunes , Hosseini‐Baharanchi Fatemeh Sadat , Hajimoradi Maryam , Malek Rayka , Noorali Sima , Mokhtari Majid , Khoundabi Batoul , Sadr Makan , Mohamadnia Abdolreza , Zahraei Seyed Mohsen , Hashemian Seyed MohammadReza , Dastan Farzaneh , Mortaz Esmaeil , Tayeri Katayoun , Behtaj Fatemeh , Vaezi Hassan , Forouzanfar Mohammad Mehdi , Shafaghi Shadi
Published: February 2023

Various severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccines with different platforms have been administered worldwide; however, their effectiveness in critical cases of COVID‐19 has remained a concern. In this national cohort study, 24 016 intensive care unit (ICU) coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) admissions were included from January to April 2022. The mortality and length of ICU stay were compared between the vaccinated and unvaccinated patients. A total of 9428 (39.25%) patients were unvaccinated, and 14 588 (60.75%) patients had received at least one dose of the vaccine. Compared with the unvaccinated, the first, second, and third doses of vaccine resulted in 8%, 20%, and 33% lower risk of ICU mortality in the adjusted model, with risk ratio (RR): 0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84–1.001, RR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.77–0.83, and RR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.64–0.71, respectively. The mean survival time was significantly shorter in the unvaccinated versus the fully vaccinated patients (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.80–0.88); p < 0.001). All vaccine platforms successfully decreased the hazard of ICU death compared with the unvaccinated group. The duration of ICU stay was significantly shorter in the fully vaccinated than in unvaccinated group (MD, −0.62, 95% CI: −0.82 to −0.42; p < 0.001). Since COVID‐19 vaccination in all doses and platforms has been able to reduce the risk of mortality and length of ICU‐stay, universal vaccination is recommended based on vaccine availability.
Muscle activation for targeted elbow force production following surgical reconstruction in adults with brachial plexus injury
Authors: Bhat Sandesh G. , Miller Emily J. , Shin Alexander Y. , Kaufman Kenton R.
Published: February 2023

Nerve transfer or grafting surgery to restore elbow flexion in peripheral nerve injuries has been an effective technique, but alters neuromuscular control compared with healthy individuals. This study compared neuromuscular control in the elbow flexors of 11 unimpaired control subjects and 11 adult patients with traumatic brachial plexus injury who underwent a nerve transfer or grafting procedure to the biceps motor branch to restore elbow flexion. The subjects performed a series of trials to generate a specific percentage of their maximum elbow torque. Each trial had an increasing and decreasing stairstep torque pattern that the subjects were asked to match. The amount of time that the subject's elbow torque was maintained within 5% of the target torque was calculated. The hypothesis was that there was a significant difference in the neuromuscular control between the two groups during elbow isometric torque generation. A secondary hypothesis was that a relationship existed between the neuromuscular control and the torque level for each group. The results demonstrated that neuromuscular control was different between the groups and there were significant differences in how torque levels are generated. The control group more easily modulated their myoelectric activation and achieved greater neuromuscular control variability with varying torque demand. The nerve transfer or grafting group could not modulate their myoelectric activation with changing torque demands. Further studies focusing on the improvement of neuromuscular control are needed to optimize functional outcomes in nerve injury patients.
Acute bone loss following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in mice
Authors: Haudenschild Anne K. , Christiansen Blaine A. , Orr Sophie , Ball Erin E. , Weiss Christopher M. , Liu Hongwei , Fyhrie David P. , Yik Jasper H. N. , Coffey Lark L. , Haudenschild Dominik R.
Published: February 2023

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and has infected more than 650 million people worldwide. Approximately 23% of these patients developed lasting “long‐haul” COVID symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and systemic hyperinflammation. However, the direct clinical impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on the skeletal system including bone and joint health has not been determined. Utilizing a humanized mouse model of COVID‐19, this study provides the first direct evidence that SARS‐CoV‐2 infection leads to acute bone loss, increased osteoclast number, and thinner growth plates. This bone loss could decrease whole‐bone mechanical strength and increase the risk of fragility fractures, particularly in older patients, while thinner growth plates may create growth disturbances in younger patients. Evaluating skeletal health in patients that have recovered from COVID‐19 will be crucial to identify at‐risk populations and develop effective countermeasures.
Ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry‐based lipidomics reveals key lipid molecules as potential therapeutic targets of Polygonum cuspidatum against hyperlipidemia in a hamster model
Authors: Yang Na , Hu Wei , He Jun , Wu Xu , Zou Ting , Zheng Jiahui , Zhao Chongbo , Wang Min
Published: February 2023

Polygonum cuspidatum is a homology of traditional medicine and functional food widely distributed around the world. Our previous study on the hyperlipidemic animal model demonstrated that Polygonum cuspidatum was effective in ameliorating hyperlipidemia, which is characterized by lipid disorders. Herein, the regulatory effect of Polygonum cuspidatum on lipid metabolism needs to be known if its hypolipidemic mechanism is desired to clarify. In this study, an ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry‐based lipidomic strategy was first applied to investigate the lipidomic patterns of high‐fat diet‐induced hyperlipidemic hamsters when treated with Polygonum cuspidatum. The results showed that Polygonum cuspidatum improved the lipidomic profile of hyperlipidemia. A total of 65 differential lipids related to the hypolipidemic effect of Polygonum cuspidatum were screened out and identified, and these differential lipids covered various categories, such as phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylethanolamines, triacylglycerols, sphingomyelins and so on. Orally administrated Polygonum cuspidatum restored these differential lipids back to normal or nearly normal levels. This study adopted lipidomics to reveal the key lipid molecules as potential therapeutic targets of Polygonum cuspidatum against hyperlipidemia, which would provide a scientific basis for its clinical application.
Comparative study of characteristic compounds of three species of truffle
Authors: Li Xin‐Ai , Li Si‐Ning , Jiang Yu , Zheng Zhen‐Xing , Guo Wen‐Xiu , Liu Ran , Wang Guang‐Zhi , Zhang Xu , Bian Qiang , Zhang Ming‐Zhi , Gu Yu‐Cheng , Yin Sheng , Guo Da‐Le , Deng Yun
Published: February 2023

The Panxi area in Sichuan Province is the main area for the production of truffles in China, and several species of truffle are known to exist in this region. Nevertheless, it is unclear what the differences in chemical composition between the truffles are. Using an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole/orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry coupled with Compound Discoverer 3.0, we identified chemical components in three mainly known truffles from the Panxi region. Further analysis of chemical composition differences was conducted using principal component analysis, and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis. Note that, 78.9% of the variance was uncovered by the principal component analysis model. As a result of the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis model, the three species of truffles (Tuber pesudohimalayense, Tuber indicum, and Tuber sinense) from Panxi were better discriminated, with R2X, R2Y, and Q2 being 0.821, 0.993, and 0.947, respectively. In this study, 87 components were identified. T. pesudohimalayense contained significantly higher levels of nine different compounds than the other two species. Hence, it was possible to identify similarities and differences between three species of truffles from Panxi in terms of chemical composition. This can be used as a basis for quality control.
Rapid separation and binding configuration prediction of the components in Danshen decoction to endothelin A receptor using affinity chromatography and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Li Ping , Ou Yuanyuan , Zhang Zilong , Wang Wenwen , Ji Xu , Fang Minfeng , Li Qian
Published: February 2023

As a famous traditional Chinese formula, Danshen Decoction has the potential to relieve the pain of pulmonary arterial hypertension patients, however, the functional components remain unknown. Herein, we reported a method to screen the functional components in Danshen Decoction targeting endothelin receptor A, an accepted target for the treatment of the disease. The receptor was functionalized on the macroporous silica gel through an epidermal growth factor receptor fusion tag and its covalent inhibitor. Using the affinity gel as the stationary phase, the bioactive compound was identified as salvianolic acid B by mass spectrometry. The binding kinetic parameter (dissociation rate constants kd) of salvianolic acid B with the receptor was determined via peak profiling. Using the specific ligands of the receptor as probes, the binding configuration prediction of salvianolic acid B with the receptor was performed by molecular dynamics simulation. Our results indicated that salvianolic acid B is a potential bioactive compound in Danshen Decoction targeting the receptor. This work showed that receptor chromatography in combination with molecular dynamics simulation is applicable to predicting the binding kinetics and configuration of a ligand to a receptor, providing crucial insight for the rational design of drugs that recognize functional proteins.
Corrosion protection mechanism of Ce3+/polyethylene glycol systems inhibitors for mild steel in sulfate solution
Authors: Boudellioua Hichem , Hamlaoui Youcef , Tifouti Lakhdar , Pedraza Fernando
Published: February 2023

In the present paper, cerium nitrate salt was used as a green inhibitor to improve the corrosion resistance of mild steel in 0.1 M Na2SO4 solution. To increase the barrier effect and film stability of the protective layer, polyethylene glycol (PEG) was added. The corrosion tests were evaluated using d.c polarization techniques and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The composition and morphology of the sample surface were characterized using Raman spectroscopy and MEB/EDS analysis. The results show that the presence of PEG improved relatively the corrosion resistance of mild steel due to the removal of cracks, the pores blocking the formed film and the enhancement of adhesion and compactness of the cerium‐based film. Consequently, the protective film became more coherent on the steel surface. Furthermore, the potentiodynamic polarization indicated that the Ce3+/PEG system behaved as a mixed‐type inhibitor with the dominant effect of the cathodic part.
What drives sponsorship effectiveness? An examination of the roles of brand community identification, brand authenticity, and sponsor–club congruence
Authors: Moharana Tapas Ranjan , Roy Bhattacharjee Debashree , Pradhan Debasis , Kuanr Abhisek
Published: February 2023

This research examines the influence of brand community identification (BCI) on three measures of sponsorship effectiveness—brand advocacy, purchase intention, and sponsor‐brand choice. Additionally, we investigate the psychological mechanism and the moderators between BCI and sponsorship outcomes. We collected data from members of two brand communities, across four experiments (2 × 2 between‐subject designs), during soccer league events. Our findings demonstrate that BCI increased brand advocacy and purchase intention. It shows a novel psychological mechanism (brand community engagement) between BCI and brand advocacy; both brand authenticity and sponsor–club congruence serve as boundary conditions. Counter‐intuitively, our study revealed that both high‐congruent and low‐congruent sponsor brands could be effective, depending on consumers' identification with the brand community. Our research makes several meaningful theoretical and practical contributions. Sports clubs and sponsors must cultivate consumers' identification with the club's brand community, which offers two‐fold benefits; it leads to greater effectiveness, measured in terms of club brand engagement and sponsor‐brand advocacy. Moreover, our research demonstrates that consumers, regardless of their identification with the brand community, will stop supporting a sponsor brand if they perceive it as less authentic.
Secondary Structure Formation in Hybrid Synthetic/Peptide Polymers: Insights from Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Kunze Thomas , Dreßler Christian , Sebastiani Daniel
Published: February 2023

Proteins and peptides exhibit an immense variety of structures, which are generally classified according to simple structural motifs (mainly α helices and β sheets). Considerable efforts have been invested in understanding the relationship between chemical structure (primary structure) of peptides and their spatial motifs (secondary structure). However, little is known about the possibility to interfere intentionally in these structural driving forces, for example, by inserting (short) artificial polymer chains in the peptide backbone. Structure formation on such hybrid synthetic/biochemical polymers is still an emerging field of research. Here, molecular dynamics simulations are used to illustrate the influence of inserted polyethylene segments on the secondary structure of several peptide homopolymers. A loss of structure of ≈50% when the peptide chain length drops to ten amino acids and a practically complete absence for even shorter peptide segments.
A spatiotemporal model for PM2.5 prediction based on the K‐Core idea and label distribution
Authors: Zhang Yizhun , Yan Qisheng
Published: February 2023

With the increasingly severe problem of PM2.5 environmental pollution, the threat to human health is gradually increasing. Therefore, accurate prediction of PM2.5 concentration is of great significance to the healthy life of human beings. To make up for the deficiencies of previous studies on PM2.5 concentration prediction, a spatiotemporal model (Spatiotemporal prediction model of label distribution, LDSPM) for PM2.5 concentration prediction based on the K‐Core algorithm concept and label distribution learning was proposed. Leveraging K‐Core ideas and the label distribution support vector regression model of the label distribution paradigm, the influence weight of each meteorological factor on PM2.5 concentration in each piece of data was obtained with the decomposition of meteorological factors using the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition of adaptive noise. Using a long short‐term memory neural network to predict each decomposed signal and obtain the forecast data of meteorological factors. Finally, according to the expected weight and meteorological factor data, a particle swarm optimization extreme learning machine is used to train the prediction, and the predicted value of PM2.5 is obtained. The experimental results show that the forecasting model performs better than other combined and single forecasting models. It provides new directions and ideas for PM2.5 concentration prediction.
Probiotics Alleviate Food Protein Allergy in Mice by Activating TLR4 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Tian Xiaoying , Liang Xi , He Hong , Cui Qingyu , Liu Qiqi , Fan Rongbo , Liu Tongjie , Yi Huaxi , Gong Pimin , Wang Qingzhu , Zhang Lanwei
Published: February 2023

Scope

Food allergy has become a world recognized public health problem due to its versatility and lack of efficacious methods for its treatment. Probiotics supplement is a potential way to prevent food allergy.

Methods and results

In this study, potential strains are screen out by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and their abilities of alleviating food allergy are examined using a mouse model induced by ovalbumin (OVA). The results show that six strains increase ratio of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ)/interleukin (IL)‐4 secreted by PBMCs with good abilities in intestinal adhesion and gastrointestinal tolerance. Oral administration of Bifidobacterium animalis KV9 (KV9) and Lactobacillus vaginalis FN3 (FN3) attenuates allergic responses in allergy mice, including allergic symptoms, mast cells aggregation and activity, serum OVA‐special‐immunoglobulins E (OVA‐sIgE) production. KV9 and FN3 upregulate the production of IFN‐γ/IL‐4 in splenocytes, increase the genes and proteins expression of toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (Myd88) and interferon regulatory factor (IRF)‐1 in allergic mice spleen, and decrease the IRF‐4.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that KV9 and FN3 possess anti‐allergic activities via activation of TLR4 pathway and modulating the expression of IRF‐1 and IRF‐4 which leads to T helper type 1 (Th1)/T helper type 2 (Th2) cell immunology balance.
Volume conduction: Extracellular waveform generation in theory and practice
Authors: Dumitru Daniel , Nandedkar Sanjeev D. , Barkhaus Paul E.
Published: February 2023

The extracellular waveform manifestations of the intracellular action potential are the quintessential diagnostic foundation of electrodiagnostic medicine, and clinical neurophysiology in general. Volume conduction is the extracellular current flow and associated voltage distributions in an ionic conducting media, such as occurs in the human body. Both surface and intramuscular electrodes, in association with contemporary digital electromyographic systems, permit very sensitive detection and visualization of this extracellular spontaneous, voluntary, and evoked nerve/muscle electrical activity. Waveform configuration, with its associated discharge rate/rhythm, permits the identification of normal and abnormal waveforms, thereby assisting in the diagnosis of nerve and muscle pathology. This monograph utilizes a simple model to explain the various waveforms that may be encountered. There are a limited number of waveforms capable of being generated in excitable tissues which conform to well‐known volume conductor concepts. Using these principles, such waveforms can be quickly identified in real time during clinical studies.
Relationship between traits and sleep quality of hospitalized elderly patients and sleep quality of family caregivers
Authors: Chung Min‐Huey , Ho Wen‐Ting , Ryuno Hirochika , Pujasari Hening , Chang Pi‐Chen , Chang Wen‐Pei
Published: February 2023

Aim

To understand whether the sleep quality of the caregivers of elderly inpatients is associated with their own characteristics and with the characteristics or sleep quality of the elderly inpatients.

Design

A cross‐sectional study design that recruited participants from September to December 2020 was adopted, in which 106 pairs of elderly inpatients and caregivers were recruited.

Methods

Data collected from the elderly inpatients included demographic characteristics as well as the numerical rating scale (NRS) score, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form (GDS‐SF) score, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Caregiver data included demographic characteristics and PSQI.

Results

In the regression analysis of caregiver characteristics and caregiver sleep quality, only caregiver age and the relationship between caregiver and inpatient (other vs. spouse) were correlated with caregiver sleep quality. In the regression analysis of elderly inpatient characteristics, caregiver characteristics, and caregiver sleep quality, only the PSQI of elderly inpatients and the relationship between caregiver and inpatient (other vs. spouse) were correlated with caregiver sleep quality.

Patient or Public Contribution

Poor caregiver sleep quality was more likely to manifest when the elderly inpatients had poor sleep quality, when the caregivers themselves were older, and when the caregiver was the inpatient's spouse.
Are hip fracture patients with high or low body mass index at higher risk of missed care? A cohort study
Authors: Pedersen Nanna Sofie Astrup , Mechlenburg Inger , kristensen Pia Kjær
Published: February 2023

Aim

To examine whether patients' body mass index is associated with missed hip fracture care consistent with national guideline‐recommended care.

Design

A nationwide, population‐based cohort study using prospectively collected data from the Danish Multidisciplinary Hip Fracture Registry.

Methods

The study population consisted of 39,835 patients ≥65 years admitted with a hip fracture and discharged between 1st of January 2012 and 29th of November 2017. National guideline‐recommended care consists of preoperative optimization, early surgery, mobilization within 24 h, basic mobility assessment, nutrition screening, post‐discharge rehabilitation program, and osteoporotic and fall prophylaxis. We used binomial regression to estimate the relative risk for the fulfilment of the individual measures with 95% confidence interval. Multiple imputation method was applied to handle missing values of body mass index.

Results

The overall fulfilment of the individual measures ranged from 43% for pre‐operative optimization to 95% for receiving a post‐discharge rehabilitation program. The obese patients had a lower fulfilment of surgery within 36 h compared to patients with normal weight. No differences in fulfilment of the other measures were found. However, patients with missing data on body mass index had the highest risk of missed care. In conclusion, patients with missing BMI values had the highest risk of missed care. The obese patients had a slightly higher risk of long waiting times for surgery than normal‐weighted patients.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This study was done based on population‐based data from medical registries and data was analysed by the authors only.
Experiences of transitions in daily life for parents of children with type 1 diabetes: An interpretive description
Authors: Holmström Rising Malin , Söderberg Siv
Published: February 2023

In this study, we aimed to explore and describe the experiences of parents whose children have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and the transitions of daily life. T1D is a long‐term illness, and parents of children with T1D often become informal caregivers and face many challenges in their daily lives. A qualitative study design, in line with interpretive description, was used, and a sample of 10 parents of children with T1D participated in individual interviews. The COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist was used. The interviews were analyzed using interpretive descriptions. The analysis resulted in one main theme: “The realization of having taken ‘daily life’ for granted and having to accept a new reality,” with six themes showing different transitions in the parents' daily lives, including transitions in daily life patterns, parenthood, in relationships with family and friends, relationships with school personnel, relationships with healthcare personnel, and in knowledge and learning about the illness. Parents experienced multifaceted changes that affected their lives, as shown by the six identified transitions. Being the parent of a child with T1D implies a new reality with complex, irreversible life changes that may be unknown and unspoken to healthcare professionals and society. Healthcare systems, school personnel, and society at large need to improve their knowledge regarding parents' situations to better support them in embracing a new reality for themselves and their children long after the onset of T1D.
Estimated minimum prices and lowest available national prices for antiobesity medications: Improving affordability and access to treatment
Authors: Levi Jacob , Wang Junzheng , Venter Francois , Hill Andrew
Published: February 2023

Objective

Novel antiobesity treatments are highly effective in recent clinical trials. Access to these medications is needed to supplement lifestyle and surgical interventions for millions living with obesity worldwide, but high prices are limiting. This study aimed to review current treatment costs and calculate potential estimated minimum prices (EMPs).

Methods

The authors searched national drug price databases across various countries for orlistat, naltrexone‐bupropion, topiramate‐phentermine, liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide. EMPs for antiobesity medications were calculated using established methodology, using active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) from the Panjiva database. EMPs were calculated per 30‐day course and include costs of active pharmaceutical ingredients, excipients, formulation, taxation, and 10% profit margin.

Results

National prices of antiobesity medications were significantly higher than calculated EMPs. Semaglutide 30‐day course prices ranged from $804 (United States) to $95 (Turkey) while the EMP was $40. Liraglutide prices ranged from $1418 (United States) to $252 (Norway) while the EMP was $50. Some oral treatments could be generically manufactured at very low costs per course ($7 for orlistat; $5 for phentermine/topiramate combination tablets), while naltrexone/bupropion was more expensive ($54).

Conclusions

This study shows that certain weight loss treatments can be manufactured and sold profitably at low costs, but prices currently range widely between countries, limiting access for those in need.
SARS‐CoV‐2 Effects on Psychophysical Olfactory Scores: Prospective Study With Evaluation Before and 60‐Days After Infection
Authors: Vaira Luigi Angelo , Lechien Jerome R. , Salzano Giovanni , Maglitto Fabio , Boscolo‐Rizzo Paolo , Hopkins Claire , De Riu Giacomo
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the olfactory function in a series of individuals infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 and who had undergone psychophysical olfactory assessment prior to infection. Individuals unexposed to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection underwent a psychophysical evaluation of smell with the Sniffin' Sticks test. The subjects were followed prospectively and included in the study if they developed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with a second test 60 days after recovery. At the 60‐day follow‐up of the 41 included subjects, 2 (4.9%) self‐reported persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD). The differences between TDI scores before and after infection were statistically significant (37 [interquartile range (IQR), 34.25‐39.25] vs 34.75 [IQR, 32.25‐38]; p = .021). Analyzing the individual olfactory domains, the differences were significant for threshold (T) (9.75 [IQR, 9‐11.25] vs 8.25 [IQR, 7.25‐10.25]; p = .009) but not for odor discrimination (D) (p = .443) and identification (I) (p = .159). SARS‐CoV‐2 causes a significant reduction in the olfactory function, in particular affecting the olfactory threshold, even in subjects who do not self‐report an OD.
One‐Year Hearing Preservation and Speech Outcomes Comparing Slim Modiolar and Lateral Wall Arrays
Authors: Zhan Kevin Y. , Walia Amit , Durakovic Nedim , Wick Cameron C. , Buchman Craig A. , Shew Matthew A. , Herzog Jacques A.
Published: February 2023

Objective

Compare postoperative speech outcomes in hearing preservation (HP) cochlear implantation (CI) patients with a low‐frequency pure‐tone average (LFPTA) ≤ 60 dB using 2 electrode array designs.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Large academic cochlear implant referral center.

Methods

We reviewed adult HP CI cases using either the slim modiolar electrode (SME) (CI 532/CI 632) or th slim lateral wall electrode (SLWE) (CI 624). One‐year speech outcomes and HP status were the primary outcomes.

Results

A total of 132 implanted ears were analyzed (mean age 73.1 years, standard deviation [SD] 12.6), with 72% (N = 95) with CI 532/632 and 28% (N = 37) with CI 624. The mean preoperative LFPTA was 44.8 dB, SD 11.8. One‐year functional HP was 27.2% (mean LFPTA shift 46.1 dB, SD 22.1) and was as follows: SME 23.9% and SLWE 36.4%, p = .168. The mean age at implantation was significantly younger only in SLWE patients with preserved hearing (66.9 vs 80.3 years, p = .008). At 6 months, speech measures were significantly better in all outcomes in HP patients with an SLWE than nonpreserved SLWE patients; this effect abated at 1 year as performance among nonpreserved SLWE patients became equivalent to the remaining cohort. Speech outcomes in SME patients were similar regardless of HP status. Age at implantation and datalogging was correlated with speech outcomes.

Conclusion

In this cohort of HP patients, a 1‐year functional HP rate of 23.9% (SME) and 36.4% (SLWE) was observed (p = 0.168). This was initially 57.1% (SME) and 70.3% (SLWE) at activation, p = .172. Datalogging and age at implantation were correlated with postoperative speech outcomes.
Narrow‐Band Imaging in Transoral Laser Surgery for Early Glottic Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zwakenberg Manon A. , Westra Jeroen M. , Halmos Gyorgy B. , Wedman Jan , van der Laan Bernard F.A.M. , Plaat Boudewijn E.C.
Published: February 2023

Objective

Assessing whether the additional use of narrow‐band imaging (NBI) in transoral laser surgery (TOLS) for early laryngeal cancer improves clinical outcomes.

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial, performed between September 2015 and November 2022.

Setting

A tertiary referral hospital in The Netherlands.

Methods

TOLS was carried out in 113 patients. The procedure was performed with white light imaging (WLI, n = 56) alone, or combined with NBI (n = 57). Patients received frequent follow‐up laryngoscopy. Resection margin status, recurrence rate, and recurrence‐free survival at 12 months, 18 months, and after study termination (maximum 86 months) were analyzed.

Results

Thirty‐one cases in the WLI group had a positive resection margin, versus 16 in the NBI group (p = .002). After 12 months, the recurrence‐free survival was 92%: 87% for WLI versus 96% for NBI, p = .07. The recurrence rate was 7/56 (13%) for WLI, versus 2/57 (4%) for NBI, p = .09. After 18 months, the recurrence‐free survival was 84% for WLI versus 96% for NBI, p = .02. The recurrence rate was 9/56 (16%) for WLI, versus 2/57 (4%) for NBI, p = .02. After study termination, the recurrence‐free survival was 71% for WLI versus 83% for the NBI group (p = .08). The recurrence rate was 16/56 for WLI, versus 10/57 for NBI (p = .16).

Conclusion

The additional use of NBI during TOLS significantly decreased the number of positive resection margins. Although not statistically significant at all time points, patients treated with NBI‐supported TOLS showed a lower recurrence rate and better recurrence‐free survival. Further studies in larger patient groups are needed to confirm these results.
Hierarchical engineering of boron nitride nanosheets to reveal ignition mode of action of epoxy
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhang Xiao‐Die , Li Jifeng , Ran Zi‐Mou , Lira Sara Isabel Montero , Wang De‐Yi
Published: February 2023

In the manuscript, the coupled parameters to influence ignition mode of charring epoxy thermoset (EP) were systematically revealed by comparative experiments and simulation. Aiming to incorporating physical variables of heat conductivity (k), specific heat capacity (c) and chemical variable of thermal‐oxidation degradation, thermally exfoliated boron nitride nanosheets were hierarchically engineered via bioinspired manipulation. Ignition time (tig) was studied in cone calorimeter test, accompanied by the in situ temperature detection and finite‐element temperature simulation. The comparative study disclosed that the physical parameters (k and c) exerted a dominant effect at the heating stage. The thermal‐oxidation degradation took effect at the determination of composition and concentration of volatiles (pertaining to ignition temperature). The pyrolyzed depth served as the bridge to connect physical and chemical aspects. The study revealed the dominant role of physical parameters in determining tig compared with chemical parameters. The concentration of volatiles was more critical than their composition. The multi‐scale structure and property relationship was established. Additionally, the changed oxygen atmospheres exerted a significant impact on piloted ignition via tailoring chemical factor. In perspective, the work will reveal a more clear understanding and modulation of ignition safety via a rational nanoscale strategy toward thermosetting polymers.