bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex‐related beneficial effects of exercise on cardiac function and rhythm in autistic rats
Authors: Bashiri Hamideh , Rostamzadeh Farzaneh , Sabet Nazanin , Moslemizadeh Amirhossein , Rajizadeh Mohammad Amin , Jafari Elham
Published: July 2023

Background

Cardiovascular diseases are prevalent in autistic patients. As exercise is useful in the treatment of medical conditions, this study aimed to identify the effect of low‐intensity endurance exercise (LIEE) and moderate‐intensity endurance exercise (MIEE) on cardiovascular events in autistic rats.

Methods

Valproic acid (VPA) was administrated once on gestational day 12.5 to pregnant rats to produce autism‐like symptoms in offspring. Thirty‐day‐old offspring were divided into 12 groups: Male‐CTL, Male‐VPA, Male‐CTL + LIEE, Male‐CTL + MIEE, Male‐VPA + LIEE, Male‐VPA + MIEE, Female‐CTL, Female‐VPA, Female‐CTL + LIEE, Female‐CTL + MIEE, Female‐VPA + LIEE, and Female‐VPA + MIEE. LIEE and MIEE were performed 5 days a week for 30 days. Twenty‐four hours after the last exercise session, electrocardiogram and hemodynamic and cardiac function indices were recorded.

Results

The results indicated that +dp/dt max and contractility index (CI) decreased in the Female‐VPA group compared to the Female‐CTL group. LIEE increased these parameters in the Female‐VPA + LIEE group. However, MIEE normalized CI in the Male‐VPA + MIEE compared to the Male‐VPA group. Tau increased in the Female‐VPA group compared to the Female‐CTL group and it decreased in the Female‐VPA + MIEE group compared to the Female‐VPA group. LIEE and MIEE recovered the reduction of heart rate and the increase in P, R, and T amplitudes in Male‐VPA group. LIEE and MIEE increased heart rate variability in the Male‐VPA and Female‐VPA groups.

Conclusions

The findings showed that LIEE and MIEE alleviated cardiac dysfunction and disturbances in heart rhythm in the autistic offspring. Exercise may be recommended as a routine program for autistic patients to prevent and treat the harmful cardiovascular consequences of autism.
Meet the Metaorganism: A web‐based learning app for undergraduate and graduate biology students
Authors: Landis Susanne H. , Piecyk Agnes , Reitz Manuel , Enzingmüller Carolin , Schulenburg Hinrich , Bosch Thomas , Dierking Katja , Deines Peter , Hunfeld‐Häutle Jonas , Rappaport Konrad , Duscher Tom
Published: July 2023

Meet the Metaorganism is a web‐based learning app that combines three fundamental biological concepts (coevolution, community dynamics, and immune system) with latest scientific findings using the metaorganism as a central case study. In a transdisciplinary team of scientists, information designers, programmers, science communicators, and educators, we conceptualized and developed the app according to the latest didactic and scientific findings and aimed at setting new standards in visual design, digital knowledge transfer, and online education. A content management system allows continuous integration of new findings, which enables us to expand the app with the dynamics of the research field. Students can thus gain a close insight and connection to current research, and at the same time learn that knowledge is not static but grows dynamically. Especially in the realm of the easily accessible metaorganism research, visualization plays an essential role to keep complex processes understandable and memorable. Meet the Metaorganism is freely available online and can be accessed here: www.metaorganism.app.
Linezolid induced hypoglycemia and anemia: A case report
Authors: Lan Xiao‐hua , Hu Yue , Cao Yan‐jie , Liu Ping , Ren Qi‐tao , Zhu Wei‐wei
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Linezolid (LZD) is an efficient addition antibiotic against multidrug‐resistant strains. However, clinicians should pay attention to the adverse reactions such as hypoglycemia and anemia in using LZD, especially in elderly patients and patients with abnormal liver and kidney function who need to use LZD for a long time.

Severe hypoglycemia and anemia caused by linezolid (LZD) are rare, with potentially serious adverse effects. The report of LZD‐induced hypoglycemia and anemia is extremely rare. Thus far, this is the first report. We presented LZD‐induced recurrent hypoglycemia and anemia in a 93‐year‐old patient who has been prescribed LZD 600 mg once daily for 42 days for treatment of tuberculosis (TB) pleurisy and pneumonia. The patient began to experience recurrent hypoglycemic episodes and anemia 5 days and 2 weeks after LZD medication, respectively. Using Naranjo's Adverse Drug Reaction Assessment Scale, the patient scored 8 points with the category of “probable”. His hypoglycemia and anemia gradually improved 1 month after LZD withdrawal. Clinicians should pay attention to the adverse reactions such as hypoglycemia and anemia in using LZD, especially in elderly patients and patients with abnormal liver and kidney function who need to use LZD for a long time. Patients should regularly monitor blood routine, blood glucose, and liver and kidney functions during LZD exposure, which may avoid adverse reactions and improve their prognosis.
A case of fulminant myocarditis with full recovery after a 38‐h sustained asystole
Authors: Akutsu Tomohiro , Endo Akira , Sonobe Hiroyuki , Suzuki Keisuke , Murata Kiyoshi , Otomo Yasuhiro
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Even if cardiac rhythm deteriorated to asystole in the clinical course of fulminant myocarditis, cardiac function may recover, and the patient may be discharged without brain damage, if circulation could be maintained by appropriate mechanical cardiac supports.

A 69‐year‐old man was diagnosed with fulminant myocarditis with circulatory collapse. His cardiac rhythm deteriorated to asystole on the second day; however, circulatory status was maintained through extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and intra‐aortic balloon pumping. After 38 h‐lasting asystole, his heart resumed beating. He was discharged without neurological deficits on Day 25.
An uninformative NIPT as an early indicator of cri‐du‐chat due to a chromosomal 5;18 translocation—An atypical presentation of a rare cytogenetic phenomenon
Authors: Shukla Devanshi , Dinunzio Matthew , Colaiacovo Samantha , Meybodi Anahita Mohseni , Saleh Maha
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

We present a patient with cri‐du‐chat syndrome secondary to a rare cytogenetic mechanism. Our patient was the product of a dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy initially flagged with soft markers on ultrasound and uninformative single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for chromosome 18. Subsequent NIPT using proprietary‐targeted amplification methodology returned low risk for chromosomal aneuploidies 13, 18, and 21. Due to postnatal clinical findings, a clinical microarray and chromosomal karyotype confirmed cri‐du‐chat syndrome due to a de novo psu dic(5;18) (p15.2, p11.32). In this report we focus on these cytogenetic changes and discuss some of the current guidelines for prenatal microarray indications.
Rare retro‐patellar multiple osteochondromas in patellar tendon: A case report
Authors: Pirmohamadi Hosein , Rahimi Mohsen , Meibodi Mohammad Kazem Emami , Akbaribazm Mohsen
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Osteochondromas (OCs) are developmental anomalies that originate from the periosteum and typically form during enchondral ossification near the joints. Retro‐patellar OC caused by exostosis forms in various intracapsular, intra‐tendon, and joint‐adjacent positions within the knee joint. In this case, a 19‐year‐old male presented with swelling and a mass in his left knee, which raised suspicion of bone tumors. After evaluating x‐ray images and conducting histopathological examinations, the diagnosis was confirmed as retro‐patellar OC.
Hydropneumothorax caused by complete rupture of a pulmonary hydatid cyst: A rare case report
Authors: Almousa Maher , Alhadla Ahmad , Aljomaa Mohammad , Abdalrazzak Tamim
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Hydatid disease is a zoonotic disease endemic in developing regions. It is usually caused by infection with the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus due to contaminated food or drinks or by close contact with dogs. The lungs are the second most affected organ (25%) after the liver (>65%). Cyst rupture is the most frequent complication. Enlarging pulmonary cysts are more vulnerable to rupture, with rupturing in the bronchial tree being the most common (20%–40%). Hydropneumothorax is a consequence of complete cyst rupture into the pleural cavity and occurs in rare cases (2%–4%). Superinfection is a common complication of the ruptured cyst, which might lead to empyema. A 26‐year‐old male presented to our clinic with dyspnea that had progressed recently and made him unable to walk a few meters. He had a history of cough and exertional dyspnea and was examined by three different clinics without performing a chest X‐Ray. Physical examination revealed fever and a sick appearance. Chest X‐ray revealed complete pneumothorax with an air‐fluid level in the left hemithorax. Computerized tomography demonstrated two cysts, and one of them was ruptured, causing hydropneumothorax and empyema. The patient was treated with surgery, and follow‐up showed recovery with a fully re‐expanded lung. Rupture of pulmonary hydatid cyst is seen in the most of cases, the clinicians must be aware of such presentation and management of the pulmonary hydatid disease.
Bernard Soulier syndrome: A case report from Pakistan
Authors: Effendi Iqra , Nadeem Ahsan , Sarfraz Sara , Shahid Mubasshar , Farooq Minaam , Anand Ayush
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Bernard Soulier Syndrome should be suspected in patients with bleeding disorder symptoms and significant family history, where consanguineous marriages are common. Diagnosis can be confirmed using a ristocetin test and a peripheral blood smear.
Path loss model based on exponential water cycle algorithm for wireless sensor network
Authors: Rayar Vijay , Naik Udaykumar
Published: July 2023

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are frequently employed in the agriculture field to improve the quality and crop yield. The WSN might reduce the quality of the communication link because of the absorption, dispersion, and attenuation through the leaves of plants. Therefore, estimating the path loss due to signal attenuation before WSN deployment is crucial for the smooth operation of the network. In this research paper, three innovative path loss models are defined based on the MATLAB curve fitting tool: polynomial water cycle (PWC), exponential water cycle (EWC), and Gaussian water cycle (GWC) algorithm. Here, the path loss between the router node and the coordinator node is modeled on the basis of the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) and time of arrival (TOA) measurements in a sugarcane field. The correlation coefficient between the RSSI measurement and the distance must be increased to create a precise path loss model. This paper integrates the exponential, polynomial, and Gaussian functions with the water cycle algorithm (WCA) to evaluate the optimal coefficients that would lead to precise path loss models. The performance of the proposed models that determines the optimum linear fit between RSSI and distance is validated using the correction coefficient
. The results show that the proposed path loss model is superior to existing path loss models. The correlation coefficient
of the proposed EWC model is 0.9993, whereas the existing PE‐PSO, LNSM, and PSO‐Exponential models yield 0.98, 0.87, and 0.93, respectively. Also, the proposed models attain the best mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.2187, 0.2951, and 0.3457 dBm for EWC, PWC, and GWC algorithms, respectively.
Trends in the incidence of dementia in people with hypertension in the UK 2000 to 2021
Authors: Adesuyan Matthew , Jani Yogini H. , Alsugeir Dana , Howard Robert , Wong Ian C. K. , Wei Li , Brauer Ruth
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION

We investigated trends in the incidence of dementia in UK adults with hypertension.

METHODS

Primary care electronic health records from IQVIA Medical Research Data UK, previously known as THIN, were used to identify 2,133,118 adults aged ≥40 years with hypertension over 2000 to 2021. The annual incidence rate and average annual percentage change in recorded dementia diagnoses were estimated and stratified by sex, 10‐year age bands, Townsend deprivation quintiles and dementia subtype.

RESULTS

The crude incidence rate of dementia in people with hypertension increased from 1.98 (95% confidence internal [CI] 1.89–2.07) per 1000 person‐years at risk (PYAR) in 2000 to 5.29 per 1000 PYAR (95% CI 5.07–5.53) in 2021, corresponding to an average annual increase of 4.1% (95% CI 3.3–5.0). Those aged ≥80 years, the most economically deprived (Townsend = 5), and Alzheimer's disease subtype reported the highest incidence rate within their respective categories.

DISCUSSION

The annual incidence rate of dementia in the hypertensive population has increased over the last 22 years.

Highlights

New dementia diagnosis in the hypertensive population has increased over 22 years.

The Alzheimer's disease subtype reported the highest incidence rate in people with hypertension.

Difference in dementia incidence between hypertensive females and males has reduced.

Difference in dementia incidence among deprivation categories has reduced in recent years.
Heterogeneity of short‐term memory deficits in children with dyslexia
Authors: Wokuri Sarah , Gonthier Corentin , Marec‐Breton Nathalie , Majerus Steve
Published: July 2023

Many studies have highlighted short‐term memory (STM) impairment in dyslexic individuals. Several studies showed deficits for both item and serial order aspects of verbal STM in dyslexic individuals. These group‐based studies, however, do not inform us about the prevalence of these deficits and, importantly, their potential heterogeneity at the individual level. The present study examined both group‐level and individual STM profiles in dyslexic and age‐matched non‐dyslexic children. While confirming previous group‐based results of both item and serial order STM deficits, individual analyses indicated two distinct profiles: one profile was associated with verbal item STM and phonological impairment while another profile showed selective serial STM deficits in both verbal and visual domains. Our results highlight the need for practitioners to consider the heterogeneous nature of STM impairment in dyslexia and to adapt STM and reading treatment strategies accordingly.
Nonparametric assessment of mangrove ecosystem in the context of coastal resilience in Ghana
Authors: Aja Daniel , Miyittah Michael , Angnuureng Donatus Bapentire
Published: July 2023

Cloud cover effects make it difficult to evaluate the mangrove ecosystem in tropical locations using solely optical satellite data. Therefore, it is essential to conduct a more precise evaluation using data from several sources and appropriate models in order to manage the mangrove ecosystem as effectively as feasible. In this study, the status of the mangrove ecosystem and its potential contribution to coastal resilience were evaluated using the Google Earth Engine (GEE) and the InVEST model. The GEE was used to map changes in mangrove and other land cover types for the years 2009 and 2019 by integrating both optical and radar data. The quantity allocation disagreement index (QADI) was used to assess the classification accuracy. Mangrove height and aboveground biomass density were estimated using GEE by extracting their values from radar image clipped with a digital elevation model and mangrove vector file. A universal allometric equation that relates canopy height to aboveground biomass was applied. The InVEST model was used to calculate a hazard index of every 250 m of the shoreline with and without mangrove ecosystem. Our result showed that about 16.9% and 21% of mangrove and other vegetation cover were lost between 2009 and 2019. However, water body and bare land/built‐up areas increased by 7% and 45%, respectively. The overall accuracy of 2009 and 2019 classifications was 99.6% (QADI = 0.00794) and 99.1% (QADI = 0.00529), respectively. Mangrove height and aboveground biomass generally decreased from 12.7 to 6.3 m and from 105 to 88 Mg/ha on average. The vulnerability index showed that 23%, 51% and 26% of the coastal segment in the presence of mangrove fall under very low/low, moderate and high risks, respectively. Whereas in the absence of mangrove, 8%, 38%, 39% and 15% fall under low, moderate, high and very high‐risk zones, respectively. This study will among other things help the stakeholders in coastal management and marine spatial planning to identify the need to focus on conservation practices.
Global review and guidelines to avoid opportunistic predation of birds and bats in mist nets
Authors: de Moura Guilherme Wince , Mustin Karen , Pinto Fernando Antonio Silva , Sineiro Sylvia Coelho Alves , Xavier Bruna da Silva , Costa Luciana Moraes , Esbérard Carlos Eduardo Lustosa , Barufatti Alexeia , Carvalho William Douglas
Published: July 2023

Mist nets are one of the most widely used techniques in the study of birds and bats worldwide. However, a number of risks are involved, including opportunistic predation. Given this potential cost, here we: (1) review the global literature to understand the factors that might contribute to predation risk for birds and bats captured in mist nets; (2) review existing guidelines for best practice use of mist nets; and (3) based on our reviews, recommend new guidelines for the use of mist nets to minimize the risk of opportunistic predation. Based on keyword in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French, and using Google Scholar, Scopus, SciElo, and Web of Science, we found 48 articles reporting opportunistic predation. In the included articles, 178 predation events, involving 52 predator and 84 prey species, were reported. In most of the reports, the mist nets were placed at ground level, the bats and birds were preyed on from the shelf closest to the ground, the mist‐net checks occurred at intervals of 1 h or 30 min and the most common predators were arboreal and scansorial species (primates and marsupials). Despite the occurrences of predation in 13 countries, guidelines for best practice mist‐net use were found in only three, despite extensive searches and contact with key people in each country. Based on the existing guidelines and our results, we recommend that mist nets be fixed with the lowest shelf at least 50 cm above ground level and be checked at 15‐min intervals; when predators are observed near mist nets, the nets either be constantly observed, closed, or relocated; suppressed the vegetation around the mist nets; captured animals be removed from the mist nets as soon as possible, and more than one researcher/technician should be in the field at all times.
Characterization of the Ligand Field in Pseudo‐Octahedral Ni(II) Complexes of Pincer‐Type Amido Ligands: Magnetism, Redox Behavior, Electronic Absorption and High‐Frequency and ‐Field EPR Spectroscopy
Authors: Ortiz Robert J. , Shepit Michael , van Lierop Johan , Krzystek J. , Telser Joshua , Herbert David E.
Published: July 2023

The description of π‐donor amido moieties as ‘weak‐field’ ligands can belie the influence of metal‐ligand covalency on the overall ligand field of coordination complexes, which can in turn influence properties including the magnetic ground state and those of their excited states. In this contribution, the ligand fields of pseudo‐octahedral Ni(II) complexes supported by diarylamido pincer‐type amido ligands – three previously reported examples supported by asymmetric (2‐R‐phenanthridin‐4‐yl)(8‐quinolinyl)amido ligands (R = Cl, CF3,tBu;RL1) along with a new congener bearing a symmetricbis(8‐quinolinyl)amido ligand (BQA;L2) – were investigated in two ways. First, high‐frequency and ‐field electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (HFEPR), SQUID magnetometry, and electronic absorption spectroscopy were used to determine the ligand field parameters. Second, the ability to electrochemically address ligand‐based oxidations despite metal‐centered SOMOs in the parentS=1 paramagnets was investigated, supported by time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) identification of strong intervalence charge‐transfer (IVCT) transitions attributed to electronic communication between two Namidomoieties mediated by a Ni(II) bridge. These findings are discussed in the broader context of 3d transition metal coordination complexes of weak‐field π‐donor ligands.
Optical, vibrational, electrical, and electrochemical studies of new plasticized methylcellulose‐based solid polymer electrolytes for supercapacitor application
Authors: Azemtsop Theodore Manfo
Published: July 2023

In this work, new plasticized solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are developed using MC (methylcellulose) as a polymer host, and sodium iodide (NaI) as a dopant via the solution casting method. Ethyl carbonate (EC) is used as a plasticizing agent to improve the properties of the SPEs. Polarized optical microscopy analysis reveals that the surface morphology of the MC‐NaI‐EC films contained porous amorphous regions owing to the presence of EC. The complex formation between MC, NaI, and EC is confirmed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectra. The addition of EC in the MC‐NaI polymer salt matrix enhances the electrochemical properties of the prepared films. The highest ionic conductivity of 5.06×10−3 S/cm is achieved for the composition: MC+50 wt. % NaI +10 wt. % EC. The linear sweep voltammetry test reveals that the optimal plasticized‐SPE can withstand up to 2.5 V. The ionic transference number analysis reveals that 99% of ions contribute to the total conductivity. The optimized SPE film and graphene oxide‐based electrodes are used to manufacture a solid‐state electrical double‐layer capacitor. The coulomb efficiency of the supercapacitor cell is 100%, and the specific capacitance of the supercapacitor is found to be 18.56 F/g utilizing impedance data at low frequency.
Impact of individual factors on DNA methylation of drug metabolism genes: A systematic review
Authors: Bian Jialu , Zhao Jinxia , Zhao Yinyu , Hao Xu , He Shiyu , Li Yuanyuan , Huang Lin
Published: July 2023

Individual differences in drug response have always existed in clinical treatment. Many non‐genetic factors show non‐negligible impacts on personalized medicine. Emerging studies have demonstrated epigenetic could connect non‐genetic factors and individual treatment differences. We used systematic retrieval methods and reviewed studies that showed individual factors’ impact on DNA methylation of drug metabolism genes. In total, 68 studies were included, and half (n = 36) were cohort studies. Six aspects of individual factors were summarized from the perspective of personalized medicine: parental exposure, environmental pollutants exposure, obesity and diet, drugs, gender and others. The most research (n = 11) focused on ABCG1 methylation. The majority of studies showed non‐genetic factors could result in a significant DNA methylation alteration in drug metabolism genes, which subsequently affects the pharmacokinetic processes. However, the underlying mechanism remained unknown. Finally, some viewpoints were presented for future research.
Predictive factors of genetic diagnosis and real‐life impact of next‐generation sequencing for children with epilepsy
Authors: Pinto Gustavo Moura da Mata Machado Ferreira , Fidalski Solena Ziemer Kusma , Santos Mara Lúcia Schmidt Ferreira , de Souza Josiane , do Valle Daniel Almeida
Published: July 2023

Objective

Identify the predictive variables of genetic pathogenic results and the impact of test results on epilepsy diagnosis and management.

Methods

Analytical observational design evaluated 130 patients with epilepsy that had performed genetic testing over January 2017 to July 2022.

Results

There was a gradual increase in the number of exams performed over the years. The frequency of pathogenic results was 34% (n = 44/130), 8 altered genes with 54% (n = 24/44) of the results. The tests were more positive in patients with developmental delay and/or regression (p = .01). None of the other factors analyzed were associated with higher diagnostic yield. The age at onset of epilepsy brought diagnostic yield to the test (p = .041). Patients with negative genetic test had a reduction in the number of electroencephalograms performed before and after the test (respectively, 3.80 ± 6.37 and .84 ± 1.67; p < .001).

Significance

Facing a large proportion of patients with unexplained epilepsy have a genetic cause a genetic test has the potential to reduce the use of unnecessary diagnostic tests, improve patient outcomes by identifying targeted treatments, and provide families with genetic counseling and risk assessment. But an early genetic testing can be crucial to reach these goals. Even in cases where the genetic test is negative, the study suggests that it still has important implications for patient care and management.
Anticancer assessment and antibiofilm potential of Laetiporus sulphureus mushroom originated from Serbia
Authors: Jovanović Milena M. , Marković Katarina G. , Grujović Mirjana Ž. , Pavić Jelena , Mitić Milan , Nikolić Jelena , Šeklić Dragana
Published: July 2023

Laetiporus sulphureus (Bull.) Murrill is a well‐known edible mushroom consumed in nutrition as delicacy. It has been used in traditional medicine because of its beneficial effects on human wellness, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer potential. The present study determined the phenolic profile of Laetiporus sulphureus ethanolic extract (LSE) by high‐performance liquid chromatographic method. Tolerance of two probiotic bacterial strains Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 229v, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis and probiotic yeast Saccharomyces boulardii on LSE was analyzed in terms of viability and biofilm formation. Effects of extract on colorectal (HCT‐116) and cervical (HeLa) cancer cells viability was determined using MTT test in concentration range: 1–500 μg/mL after 24 and 72 h. Redox parameters (superoxide anion radicals, nitrites, and reduced glutathione) were evaluated using NBT, Griess, and GSH assays in the concentration range of 1–500 μg/mL after 24 and 72 h. Antimigratory activity was determined by wound healing method using selected concentrations of 10 and 50 μg/mL after 24 h. Untreated cells were considered as control. As control cell line, we used healthy fibroblasts (MRC‐5). Our results demonstrated abundance of LSE in phenolics, with rosmarinic acid as the main component. LSE induced low tolerance of tested planktonic probiotic strains, with no affection on their ability to form biofilm. No significant cytotoxicity on tested cancer cells was observed, with prooxidative and antimigratory effects noticed. Extract exerted significant antimigratory activity on cancer cells without effect on planktonic and probiotic cultures in biofilm. These results indicate potential application of Laetiporus sulphureus ethanolic extract as natural protector of probiotics with prominent ability to suppress cancer cell motility.
Optimization of extraction condition for platycodin D from Platycodon grandiflorum root and verification of its biological activity
Authors: Jung Jihyeon , Cho Yeon Jin , Jeong Minju , Lee Seung‐Su , Kim Jong Hun , Kim Jong‐Eun , Kim Nara , Lee Jiyun , Park Jung Han Yoon , Lee Ki Won , Lee Sung‐Young
Published: July 2023

Platycosides, major components of Platycodon grandiflorum (PG) extract, have been implicated in a wide range of biological effects. In particular, platycodin D (PD) is a well‐known main bioactive compound of Platycosides. Despite the biological significance of PD, optimization of extract condition for PD from PG root has not been well investigated. Here, we established the optimum extraction condition as ethanol concentration of 0%, temperature of 50°C, and extraction time of 11 h to obtain PD‐rich P. grandiflorum extract (PGE) by using response surface methodology (RSM) with Box–Behnken design (BBD). The 5.63 mg/g of PD was extracted from the PG root in optimum condition, and this result was close to the predicted PD content. To analyze the biological activity of PGE related to mucin production, we demonstrated the inhibitory effect of PGE on PMA‐induced hyperexpression of MUC5AC as well as ERK activation, a signal mediator of MUC5AC expression. Moreover, we showed that PGE had expectorant activity in mice. These results indicated that PGE had sufficient functions as a potential mucoregulator and expectorant for treating diverse airway diseases. Additionally, we confirmed that PGE had antioxidant activity and inhibited LPS‐induced proinflammatory cytokines, TNF‐α, and IL‐6. Taken together, PGE derived from novel optimizing conditions showed various biological effects, suggesting that PGE could be directly applied to the food industry as food material having therapeutic and preventive potential for human airway diseases.
Zinc finger protein 335 mediates lipopolysaccharide‐induced neurodegeneration and memory loss as a transcriptional factor in microglia
Authors: Kong Wei , Xie Zhen , Shang Xiaokang , Hayashi Yoshinori , Lan Fei , Narengaowa  , Zhao Shuxuan , Li Hui , Quan Zhenzhen , Wu Zhou , Nakanishi Hiroshi , Qing Hong , Ni Junjun
Published: July 2023

Zinc finger protein 335 (Zfp335) is a transcription factor that regulates mammalian neurogenesis and neuronal differentiation. It is a causative factor for severe microcephaly, small somatic size, and neonatal death. Here, we evaluated the effects of Zfp335 in the adult mouse brain after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. We used wild‐type (WT) and Zfp335 knock‐down (Zfp335+/−) mice with LPS administered in the intracerebral ventricle in vivo and cultured microglia treated with LPS in vitro. The impact of Zfp335 was evaluated by RT‐PCR, RNA‐sequencing, western blotting, immunocytochemistry, ELISA, and the memory behavior tests. Knockdown of Zfp335 expression ameliorated microglia activation significantly, including reduced mRNA and protein expression of Iba1, reduced numbers of microglia, reduced cell diameter, and increased branch length, in the brains of 2‐month‐old mice after LPS treatment. Zfp335 was expressed in microglia and neurons, but increased in microglia, not neurons, in the brain of mice after LPS administration. LPS‐induced microglia‐mediated neurodegeneration was dependent upon microglial Zfp335 controlled by nuclear factor‐kappa B. Microglial Zfp335 affected neuronal activity through transcriptional regulation of lymphocyte antigen‐6M (Ly6M). Our data suggest that Zfp335 is a key transcription factor that exacerbates microglia‐mediated neurodegeneration through upregulation of Ly6M expression. Inhibition of microglial Zfp335 may be a new strategy for preventing brain disease induced by microglia activation.
Occult hepatitis B in Iranian blood donors, an overview of the challenges: A narrative review
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammad Hossein , Sharifi Zohreh , Ghasemi Ali , Abbasian Sadegh
Published: July 2023

Background

Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is a transfusion‐transmitted infection. Although, screening the hepatitis B virus among blood donors can play an important role in increasing the health of blood products, OBI screening in blood transfusion centers is still a challenge. This review study aimed to appraise the challenges of OBI screening and its associated do's and don'ts in blood transfusion centers.

Methods

In this review study, a search was conducted on the electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Ovid, Irandoc, and Magiran from January 1996 to December 2020. Also, cross‐sectional studies that determined the prevalence of OBI or anti‐HBc were included in the study. In addition, studies with incomplete data on the prevalence of OBI were excluded.

Results

The prevalence of OBI varies among Iranian blood donors. The rates reported by blood transfusion centers of Mashhad, Ahvaz, and Tehran were 0%, and Isfahan, Shiraz, and Kerman were 0.9%, 0.08%, and 2.36%, respectively. In areas with high prevalence of hepatitis B virus, OBI screening only by anti‐HBc test led to the exemption of blood donors from donating blood. Avoiding OBI screening also effected the risk of virus transmission to blood recipients. Plasma products had a higher risk (85%) of virus transmission.

Conclusions

Determining an appropriate screening strategy based on prevalence status, the cost‐effectiveness of screening tests, and the policies of each blood transfusion center is essential.
Prevalence of baseline hypocalcemia and symptomatic hypocalcemia during leukapheresis
Authors: Bray Kimberly , Lynde Carolyn , Vu Trizzie , Patterson Amy , Reich Richard R. , Mason Tina M. , Liu Hien D.
Published: July 2023

Symptoms of hypocalcemia are reported in up to 50% of patients undergoing leukapheresis procedures. There is no set standard of practice for administering calcium supplementation in the prevention or treatment of hypocalcemia symptoms. The goal of this descriptive, retrospective study was to determine the prevalence of baseline hypocalcemia and symptomatic hypocalcemia during leukapheresis with acid citrate dextrose solution A and to identify patient characteristics associated with symptomatic hypocalcemia. Three percent of patients were found to have hypocalcemia before leukapheresis with 35% experiencing hypocalcemia symptoms during leukapheresis. Older age, higher albumin levels, and longer procedure time were associated with increased risk of hypocalcemia symptoms.
Therapeutic leukocytapheresis for leukostasis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: A case report and literature review
Authors: Auen Thomas , Renavikar Pranav , Habib Esther , Koepsell Scott A.
Published: July 2023

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a clonal mature B‐cell neoplasm with a typically indolent clinical course. Though most clinicians follow these neoplasms through observation alone, an aggressive transformation to prolymphocytic leukemia, diffuse large‐B‐cell lymphoma (Richter transformation) or classical Hodgkin lymphoma requires immediate attention. We present a case of extreme leukocytosis (>1 million/μL) in a previously diagnosed CLL patient. Due to symptomatic leukostasis, she was started on cytoreductive therapies including leukocytapheresis. After three rounds of leukocytapheresis (LCP) and concurrent chemotherapy, her white blood cell count decreased from a maximum 1262 × 103/μL to 574 × 103/μL. To our knowledge, CLL with symptomatic leukostasis that required therapeutic LCP is rarely reported in literature. We propose that therapeutic LCP is of value in such rare, yet dangerous settings like our case.
End‐of‐life care management for older adults at home by multidisciplinary professionals in Japan
Authors: Kaneda Akiko , Kanoya Yuka
Published: July 2023

Background

Population aging is a global phenomenon, and there is an urgent need to establish community‐based integrated care systems for a sustainable society. In particular, the needs of home‐dwelling older adults are multifaceted, encompassing areas such as medical care, nursing care, and welfare. Therefore, it is necessary to implement comprehensive care management that utilizes social resources suitable for diverse needs. This study aims to comprehensively describe care management practices by various professionals for home‐dwelling older adults in the end‐of‐life (EOL) period.

Methods

This study adopted a qualitative analysis method using conventional content analysis. We conducted semi‐structured interviews of 20 multidisciplinary professionals from February to March 2020.

Results

Multidisciplinary professionals ensured continuity of care by implementing care management as necessary when providing care to older adults who desired to stay at home until the end. Seven categories of EOL care management practices for home‐dwelling older adults by multidisciplinary professionals were generated: (1) support to enable discharge to home; (2) decision‐making support that captures the intention of the older adult without missing opportunities; (3) building a team system to realize the desired life and EOL; (4) family support for the entirety of the EOL period, (5) symptom control aimed at the realization of wishes; (6) emotional support for acceptance of the EOL period; (7) spiritual support.

Conclusions

Multidisciplinary professionals, including care managers, collaborating in a mutually complementary manner by sharing a comprehensive understanding of care management might prevent knowledge fragmentation and ensure that older adults receive home‐based EOL care.
Migrating 1H NMR peaks in the benzylation of adenine reveal the disruptive Kornblum oxidation in DMSO
Authors: Buyens Dominique M. S. , Pilcher Lynne A.
Published: July 2023

The alkylation of adenine using alkyl halides under basic conditions in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a common reaction to achieve N9‐alkylated adenine derivatives, is often low yielding with unreacted adenine and complicated reaction mixtures. Herein, we report the reaction monitoring of the alkylation of adenine in DMSO in the presence of NaH using benzylic halides via real‐time 1H NMR spectroscopy. NMR analysis revealed that under these generally used reaction conditions, the adeninate anion starting material is protonated as the anionic nucleophile abstracts a labile proton from an alkoxy sulfonium ion intermediate formed via the Kornblum oxidation reaction. To prevent the protonation of the adeninate anion, the reaction was performed in the presence of a mop‐up base DBU. Simultaneously increasing the concentration of the alkyl halide and the mop‐up base in a 1:1 ratio resulted in a complete reaction; however, increasing the temperature of the reaction promoted depletion of the starting material by protonation and hence reduced conversion to products. This result implies that heating of such electrophiles in DMSO should be avoided. The addition of a mop‐up base can help resolve the complication of protonation arising from the Kornblum oxidation reaction in alkylation reactions under similar conditions.
Establishment and characterization of a novel reverse genetic system of BK polyomavirus
Authors: Liu Nannan , Gu Chenjian , Yang Yang , Gao Zixiang , Kang Ning , Liu Jing , Xie Youhua
Published: July 2023

BK polyomavirus (BKV) is a small non‐enveloped DNA virus. BKV infection or reactivation may cause BKV‐associated nephropathy and hemorrhagic cystitis in immunosuppressed transplant recipients. No effective antivirals or prevention strategies are available against BKV infections. The current BKV reverse system employs the transfection of purified full‐length linear viral genomes released by enzyme digestion from BKV genomic plasmids. The method is laborious and often results in variable DNA yield and quality, which can affect the efficiency of transfection and subsequent formation of circular viral genomes in cells. In this study, we report the generation of circular viral genomes by Cre‐mediated DNA recombination in cells directly transfected with BKV precursor genomic plasmids. The novel system supported efficient viral expression and replication, and produced a higher level of infectious virions compared with the transfection with linear BKV genomes. Furthermore, we successfully constructed recombinant BKV capable of reporter gene expression. In conclusion, the novel BKV reverse genetic system allows for simpler manipulation of BKV genome with better virus yield, providing a tool for the study of BKV life cycle and antiviral screening.
Using online machine translation in international scholarly writing and publishing: A longitudinal case of a Chinese engineering scholar
Authors: Zou Cuiying , Gong Wei , Li Ping
Published: July 2023

Scholars who use English as an additional language (EAL) worldwide are under increasing pressure to write and publish in English due to the pervasive publish‐or‐perish culture and the growing dominance of English in academia. While previous studies have focused either on textual differences between EAL scholars' writing and native writers', or explored the difficulties EAL scholars meet and strategies they employ in the process, this paper examines a longitudinal case of a Chinese engineering scholar using online machine translation (MT) to support his academic writing and publishing in English. Drawing from the technology acceptance model as the theoretical background, this study shows that online MT can be a crucial support for scholars with limited English proficiency in the process of preparing a manuscript, submitting it and communicating with editors and reviewers. Frequently occurring problems in machine‐translated academic texts include improper use of technical terms, use of informal language and the inclusion of grammatical mistakes. However, in the last decade, online MT has made great improvements in academic translation. We believe these findings can empower EAL scholars to effectively use online MT in academic English writing and inspire educators to help novice scholars mobilize various high‐tech tools such as online MT to support their writing and international publishing.
Assessment of learning health system science competency in the equity and justice domain
Authors: Franklin Patricia D. , Drane Denise
Published: July 2023

Seven knowledge domains were originally defined for the learning health system (LHS) scientist. To assess proficiency in each of these domains, we developed and published an assessment tool for use by emerging LHS scientists and training programs. (LHS, October 2022). In mid‐2022, the AHRQ adopted an eighth LHS knowledge domain, Equity and Justice. The addition of this eighth domain emphasizes the importance and centrality of equity in the LHS and improvement science. To extend our prior LHS competency assessment, we developed a proficiency assessment for the new equity and justice domain. Content experts and trainees iteratively defined, reviewed, and edited the assessment criteria. The items were developed by trainees and experts at one LHS training center with experience conducting research focused on healthcare inequities among marginalized populations. The proficiency assessment criteria for the Equity domain apply the same four levels of mastery: “no exposure,” “foundational awareness,” “emerging,” and “proficient” as were used for original competencies. LHS training programs can use these proficiency criteria to monitor skills among emerging scientists across the eight domains, with particular attention to equity and justice.
FRANCES HESSELBEIN AND THE POWER OF EMPATHY
Authors: Ivany Robert
Published: July 2023

The author retired from the Army as a major general and became the president of the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas, where he served for 14 years. He writes that “for the past 21 years, she had generously served as my (and many others) mentor as I transitioned from a career in the Army to the academic world and then again as I became a faculty member at Thayer Leadership.” He was particularly impressed by “her remarkable ability to empathize. I watched her relate to and inspire young students from inner city New York, college students from China and Africa, combat veterans, CEOs of our largest corporations, and executives of philanthropic organizations.”
HOW TO BE AND DO TO CREATE VALUE FOR ALL THE STAKEHOLDERS AND THE GREATER GOOD
Authors: Mulally Alan
Published: July 2023

The author, the former President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes and former CEO of the Ford Motor Company, recounts his long friendship and collaboration with Frances Hesselbein. Like so many others, he initially met her through the pioneering executive coach Marshall Goldsmith. “Over these many decades,” the author writes, “before and since Frances and I met, my life’s work, my love and service, has been developing, implementing, and sharing the ‘Working Together’ Leadership and Management System, with its process and behaviors that support the Be and the Do, the character and competencies, and the principles and practices of leaders who create value for all the stakeholders and the greater good. Who Frances was, her character and heart, are hugely responsible for encouraging my leadership service journey.”
BRIGHT FUTURE: EMBRACING FRANCES HESSELBEIN’S EMBRACE OF YOUNGER GENERATIONS
Authors: Santucci Julia M.
Published: July 2023

The author is a senior lecturer in intelligence studies and Director of the Johnson Institute for Responsible Leadership and the Frances Hesselbein Leadership Forum at the University of Pittsburgh, and as such worked closely with Frances. She writes that she is “most inspired by Frances’ embrace of young leaders throughout her storied career. She always recognized the potential in future generations, and she created opportunities for young people to realize that potential.” The Forum remains a crucial locality for Frances’ ideas and legacy: “Our student‐centered programs—the Hesselbein Lecture Series, the Hesselbein Executive Coach, and the Leadership Program in International Affairs—aim to instill in our students the core values of servant leadership, including humility, accountability, empathy, and stewardship. These programs also create opportunities for students to engage with diverse leaders from all sectors so that they can learn from these individuals and see themselves similarly as leaders.”
Logics of upsets of De Morgan lattices
Authors: Přenosil Adam
Published: July 2023

We study logics determined by matrices consisting of a De Morgan lattice with an upward closed set of designated values, such as the logic of non‐falsity preservation in a given finite Boolean algebra and Shramko's logic of non‐falsity preservation in the four‐element subdirectly irreducible De Morgan lattice. The key tool in the study of these logics is the lattice‐theoretic notion of an n‐filter. We study the logics of all (complete, consistent, and classical) n‐filters on De Morgan lattices, which are non‐adjunctive generalizations of the four‐valued logic of Belnap and Dunn (of the three‐valued logics of Priest and Kleene, and of classical logic). We then show how to find a finite Hilbert‐style axiomatization of any logic determined by a finite family of prime upsets of finite De Morgan lattices and a finite Gentzen‐style axiomatization of any logic determined by a finite family of filters on finite De Morgan lattices. As an application, we axiomatize Shramko's logic of anything but falsehood.
Improving the blend of multiple weather forecast sources by Reliability Calibration
Authors: Rust Fiona M. , Evans Gavin R. , Ayliffe Benjamin A.
Published: July 2023

Creating a forecast that is seamless across time yet is optimal at each forecast validity time is often achieved by blending forecasts from multiple Numerical Weather Prediction models (or using other forecast sources, such as an extrapolation nowcast). With the increasing usage of convection‐permitting ensemble models at shorter lead times, the blending of these forecasts with longer‐range ensemble models with parameterized convection can lead to a clear transition from one forecast source to another. This is particularly noticeable when visualizing the evolution of the gridded forecast. Calibrating the forecast sources with a common truth prior to blending provides a method of improving forecast skill whilst also unifying the characteristics of the forecasts to create a smoother blend throughout the evolution of the forecast. In this work, a non‐parametric method for calibrating the reliability of the forecast without degrading the forecast resolution is assessed for its usability for gridded precipitation rate and total cloud amount forecasts. Reliability is markedly improved resulting in a similar skill between forecast sources during the blending period. Further refinements to the technique removed artefacts in the gridded forecasts. Caveats, including a reduction in sharpness following calibration, are also presented.
Youth with public insurance likely to be boarded during COVID
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2023

Publicly insured youths were twice as likely to experience psychiatric boarding during the COVID‐19 pandemic and, if boarded, were less likely to transfer to a 24‐hour level of care, according to new research published July 6 in JAMA Network Open.