bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capsaicin suppresses hepatocarcinogenesis by inhibiting the stemness of hepatic progenitor cells via SIRT1/SOX2 signaling pathway
Authors: Xie Zhi‐Qin , Li Hong‐Xia , Hou Xiao‐Juan , Huang Mei‐Yuan , Zhu Ze‐Min , Wei Li‐Xin , Tang Cai‐Xi
Published: June 2022

Background & Aims

Capsaicin, a functional component of chili pepper, possesses anti‐inflammatory, analgesic, and anti‐cancer properties. This study aimed to determine the property of capsaicin against hepatocarcinogenesis in vivo and investigate the role of the SIRT1/SOX2 pathway in the mode of action of capsaicin in hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs), which is related to hepatocarcinogenesis.

Materials & Methods

We prepared a diethylnitrosamine‐induced liver cancer model in rats to examine hepatocarcinogenesis, and delivered liposomal capsaicin through the subcutaneous transposition of the spleen to the liver. Liver sections from rats and hepatocarcinoma patients were stained for the markers of HPCs or SIRT1/SOX2 signaling. SIRT1/SOX2 signalling expression was measured using immunoprecipitation and western blot.

Results

We found that capsaicin significantly inhibited hepatocarcinogenesis. Notably, capsaicin inhibited HPCs activation in vivo but did not induce apoptosis in the normal hepatic progenitor cell line in rats in vitro. This suggests that capsaicin suppresses hepatocarcinogenesis by inhibiting the stemness of HPCs. Moreover, capsaicin can induce this inhibition by reducing the stability of SOX2. SIRT1 is overexpressed in liver cancer and acts as a tumor promoter via SOX2 deacetylation. Using immunoprecipitation, we identified direct binding between SIRT1 and SOX2. The capsaicin treatment resulted in SIRT1 downregulation which reduced deacetylation, and increased nuclear export as well as subsequent ubiquitous degradation of SOX2.

Conclusions

Altogether, we report that capsaicin suppresses hepatocarcinogenesis by inhibiting the stemness of HPCs via SIRT1/SOX2 signaling. It may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate for liver cancer.
Closing the loop in cath lab communication: Avoiding the tower of babble
Authors: Seto Arnold H.
Published: June 2022

Key Points

Closed‐loop communication (CLC) can reduce miscommunication and medical errors.

This quality improvement study showed that CLC was poor at baseline, improved modestly with education and training, and peaked only with management accountability.

Effective and safe cath lab teams have common goals, good communication, mutual respect, and good leadership.
In Situ Observation of Hot Carrier Transfer at Plasmonic Au/Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) Interfaces
Authors: Wang Shuobo , Wu Lei , Li Jikun , Deng Chaoyuan , Xue Jing , Tang Daojian , Ji Hongwei , Chen Chuncheng , Zhang Yuchao , Zhao Jincai
Published: June 2022

Constructing heterostructures have been demonstrated as an ideal strategy for boosting charge separation on plasmonic photocatalysts, but the detailed interface charge transfer mechanism remains elusive. Herein, that authors fabricate plasmonic Au and metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs, NH2−MIL‐125 and MIL‐125 used in this work) heterostructures and explore the interface charge transfer mechanism by in situ electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and electrochemical measurements. The plasmon‐excited hot electrons on Au can transfer across the Au/MOF interface and be captured by the coordinatively unsaturated sites of secondary building units (Ti8O8(OH)4 cluster) of the MOF structure, and the plasmon‐excited hot holes on Au tend to transfer to and be trapped at the functionalized organic ligand (1,4‐benzenedicarboxylate−NH2). The spatially separated hot electrons and holes exhibit boosted the photocatalytic activity for chromium (VI) reduction and selective benzyl alcohol oxidation. This work illustrates the advantage of the versatile functionalization of MOF structures enabling molecular‐level manipulation of interface charge transfer on plasmonic photocatalysts.
Enhancement of Mass and Charge Transfer during Carbon Dioxide Photoreduction by Enhanced Surface Hydrophobicity without a Barrier Layer
Authors: Liu Xuan , Huang Chengxi , Ouyang Bo , Du Yongping , Fu Boyu , Du Zhengwei , Ju Qiang , Ma Jingjing , Li Ang , Kan Erjun
Published: June 2022

The CO2 reduction reaction (CRR) represents a promising route for the clean utilization of renewable resources. But mass‐transfer limitations seriously hinder the forward step. Enhancing the surface hydrophobicity by using polymers has been proved to be one of the most efficient strategies. However, as macromolecular organics, polymers on the surface hinder the transfer of charge carriers from catalysts to reactants. Herein, we describe an in‐situ surface fluorination strategy to enhance the surface hydrophobicity of TiO2 without a barrier layer of organics, thus facilitating the mass transfer of CO2 to catalysts and charge transfer. With less obstruction to charge transfer, a higher CO2, and lower H+ surface concentration, the photocatalytic CRR generation rate of methanol (CH3OH) is greatly enhanced to up to 247.15 μmol g−1 h−1. Furthermore, we investigated the overall defects; enhancing the surface hydrophobicity of catalysts provides a general and reliable method to improve the competitiveness of CRR.
Thermal Properties of MXenes and Relevant Applications
Authors: Yu LePing , Xu Lyu , Lu Lu , Alhalili Zahrah , Zhou XiaoHong
Published: June 2022

The properties and applications of MXenes (a family of layered transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides) have aroused enormous research interests for a decade since the successful synthesis of few‐layer transition metal carbides in 2011. Though MXenes, as the building blocks, have already been applied in various fields (such as wearable electronics) owing to the distinctive optical, mechanical and electrical properties, their thermal stability and intrinsic thermal properties were less thoroughly investigated compared to other characteristics in early reports. The pioneering theoretical prediction of the thermoelectric nature of MXenes was performed in 2013 while the first experiment‐based report concerning the degradation behavior of the 2D structure at elevated temperatures in a controlled atmosphere was published in 2015, followed by numerous discoveries regarding the thermal properties of MXenes. Herein, after a brief description of the synthesis, this Review summarized the latest insights into the thermal stability and thermophysical properties of MXenes, and further associated these unique properties with relevant applications by multiple examples. Finally, current hurdles and challenges in this field were provided along with some advices on potential research directions in the future.
Ombuin ameliorates diabetic nephropathy in rats by anti‐inflammation and antifibrosis involving Notch 1 and PPAR γ signaling pathways
Authors: Liu Bin , Deng Caichun , Tan Ping
Published: June 2022

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common complication of diabetes and it is urgent to develop effective therapies for DN. In this study, high‐sucrose and high‐fat diet combined with streptozotocin was used to induce DN in rats to observe the effects of natural flavonoid ombuin on renal function, inflammation, and interstitial fibrosis. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting analysis were used to detect protein expression levels. Results showed that ombuin significantly improved renal function and pathological injury, inhibited accumulation of advanced glycation end‐products, suppressed the release of inflammatory cytokines, and improved renal interstitial fibrosis in DN rats. Ombuin also significantly downregulated the expressions of transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF‐β1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), fibronectin (FN), p65, phosphorylated (p)‐p65, Cleaved‐Notch 1, and hairy and enhancer of split 1 (Hes 1), and upregulated the expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPAR γ). When PPAR γ activity was inhibited by T0070907, the effects of ombuin on improving DN were significantly reversed, and the expressions of TGF‐β1, FN, CTGF, p‐p65, and p65 increased, while the expressions of Cleaved‐Notch 1 and Hes 1 were not significantly affected. These results suggest that ombuin may activate PPAR γ to exert anti‐inflammatory and antifibrotic effects by inhibiting Notch 1 activity in DN. It is also possible that ombuin acts on these two independent signal pathways synchronously.
Lewis Acid Catalyzed (3+2)‐Cycloadditions of Chiral Pyrimidinyl‐Substituted Cyclopropanes with Nitrosoarenes or Silyl Enol Ethers
Authors: Wang Hai‐Xia , Zhang Mi‐Mi , Xie Ming‐Sheng , Guo Hai‐Ming
Published: June 2022

Chiral isoxazole and carbocyclic pyrimidine nucleoside analogues were synthesized via (3+2)‐cycloadditions of chiral pyrimidinyl‐substituted dimethyl cyclopropanedicarboxylates. In the presence of MgI2, (3+2)‐cycloadditions of chiral pyrimidinyl‐substituted cyclopropanes with nitrosoarenes afforded diverse chiral isoxazole pyrimidine nucleoside analogues in up to 78 % yield and 88–96 % ee. Using Nd(OTf)3 as the catalyst, the annulation reaction with silyl enol ethers generated a series of chiral carbocyclic pyrimidine nucleoside analogues in up to 64 % yield, >20 : 1 dr, and 87–96 % ee. The proposed methods either reduced or avoided partial racemization.
Attenuated brain white matter functional network interactions in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Meng Li , Wang Hongyu , Zou Ting , Wang Xuyang , Chen Huafu , Xie Fangfang , Li Rong
Published: June 2022

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by extensive structural abnormalities in cortical and subcortical brain areas. However, an association between changes in the functional networks in brain white matter (BWM) and Parkinson's symptoms remains unclear. With confirming evidence that resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) of BWM signals can effectively describe neuronal activity, this study investigated the interactions among BWM functional networks in PD relative to healthy controls (HC). Sixty‐eight patients with PD and sixty‐three HC underwent rs‐fMRI. Twelve BWM functional networks were identified by K‐means clustering algorithm, which were further classified as deep, middle, and superficial layers. Network‐level interactions were examined via coefficient Granger causality analysis. Compared with the HC, the patients with PD displayed significantly weaker functional interaction strength within the BWM networks, particularly excitatory influences from the superficial to deep networks. The patients also showed significantly weaker inhibitory influences from the deep to superficial networks. Additionally, the sum of the absolutely positive/negative regression coefficients of the tri‐layered networks in the patients was lower relative to HC (p < .05, corrected for false discovery rate). Moreover, we found the functional interactions involving the deep BWM networks negatively correlated with part III of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scales and Hamilton Depression Scales. Taken together, we demonstrated attenuated BWM interactions in PD and these abnormalities were associated with clinical motor and nonmotor symptoms. These findings may aid understanding of the neuropathology of PD and its progression throughout the nervous system from the perspective of BWM function.
Impact of long‐term administration of maralixibat on children with cholestasis secondary to Alagille syndrome
Authors: Shneider Benjamin L. , Spino Catherine A. , Kamath Binita M. , Magee John C. , Ignacio Rosalinda V. , Huang Suiyuan , Horslen Simon P. , Molleston Jean P. , Miethke Alexander G. , Kohli Rohit , Leung Daniel H. , Jensen M. Kyle , Loomes Kathleen M. , Karpen Saul J. , Mack Cara , Rosenthal Philip , Squires Robert H. , Baker Alastair , Rajwal Sanjay , Kelly Deirdre , Sokol Ronald J. , Thompson Richard J. ,   for ChiLDReN and UK IMAGO/IMAGINE Investigators
Published: June 2022

There is growing interest in, but limited data about, intestinal bile acid transport inhibitors as treatment for cholestatic liver disease. The current analyses combine two similar randomized placebo‐controlled trials with subsequent extension phases investigating the impact of maralixibat in children with severe cholestasis secondary to Alagille Syndrome (n = 57). The primary outcomes were measures of pruritus (ItchRO[Obs]) and clinician scratch scale (CSS), both increasing in severity from 0 to 4) and quality of life (QoL) (Parent PedsQL and Multidimensional Fatigue Scale module [MFS] scaled 0–100 with increased QoL) at week 48 of the extension phase relative to the baseline of the placebo‐controlled trials (week 13). Secondary assessments included other clinical and biochemical parameters assessed in participants at week 72 or end of treatment (after week 48). At week 48, statistically and clinically significant least square mean (95% CI) improvements in pruritus and QoL were observed (ItchRO[Obs] −1.59 [−1.81, −1.36], CSS −1.36 [−1.67, −1.05], PedsQL +10.17 [4.48, 15.86], and multidimension fatigue [MFS] +13.97 [7.85, 20.08]). At week 48, serum bile acids, platelet count, and cholesterol decreased, whereas alanine aminotransferase (ALT) increased and total bilirubin (TB) and albumin were stable. Changes were durable at week 72 and end of treatment. There were no deaths; 2 participants underwent liver transplantation. Study drug was discontinued in 9 participants after treatment‐emergent adverse events, 6 of which were events of increased ALT or TB. Conclusion: Maralixibat administration was associated with marked improvement in pruritus and QoL. Interpretation of these findings is complicated by the complex natural history of severe cholestasis in Alagille syndrome.
Investigation of the effects of safranal on the experimentally created rheumatoid arthritis model in rats
Authors: Cellat Mustafa , İşler Cafer T. , Kutlu Tuncer , Kuzu Müslüm , Etyemez Muhammed , Alakuş Halil , Güvenç Mehmet
Published: June 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic chronic disease characterized by inflammation and synovitis. More effective treatment methods with less side effects need to be developed. In this context, current study investigated the therapeutic effects of safranal in a model of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced RA. The control group was given 1 ml of saline orally starting from the 8th day, and 0.2 ml of CFA was given to the RA, RA + Safranal and RA + Methotrexate (MTX) groups on the 0th day of the experiment. Starting from the 8th day of the experiment, 1 ml of saline was given to the RA group, safranal was given at 200 mg/kg of body weight to the RA + MTX group, and 3 mg/kg of MTX to the RA + MTX group twice a week. The results showed that weight gain decreased in the RA group compared to the control group while arthritis index score, thymus index, and planter temperature were found to be increased. Additionally, a deterioration in blood parameters, an increase in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, urea, creatinine, C‐reactive protein, and malondialdehyde levels, and a decrease in reduced glutathione levels and glutathione peroxidase and catalase (CAT) activities were seen while tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), cyclooxygenase‐2, nuclear factor kappa B levels were found to be increased. However, the safranal had a regulatory effect on all the values, except IL‐6 and CAT, and blood parameters. Moreover, histopathological examination revealed that safranal reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and edema.
Enhanced production of amylase, pyruvate and phenolic compounds from glucose by light‐driven Aspergillusniger–CuS nanobiohybrids
Authors: Priyanka Uddandarao , Lens Piet NL
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

The demand for value‐added compounds such as amylase, pyruvate and phenolic compounds produced by biological methods has prompted the rapid development of advanced technologies for their enhanced production. Nanobiohybrids (NBs) make use of both the microbial properties of whole‐cell microorganisms and the light‐harvesting efficiency of semiconductors. Photosynthetic NBs were constructed that link the biosynthetic pathways of Aspergillus niger with CuS nanoparticles.

RESULTS

In this work, NB formation was confirmed by negative values of the interaction energy, i.e., 2.31 × 108 to −5.52 × 108 kJ mol−1 for CuS–Che NBs, whereas for CuS–Bio NBs the values were −2.31 × 108 to −4.62 × 108 kJ mol−1 for CuS–Bio NBs with spherical nanoparticle interaction. For CuS–Bio NBs with nanorod interaction, it ranged from −2.3 × 107 to −3.47 × 107 kJ mol−1. Further, the morphological changes observed by scanning electron microscopy showed the presence of the elements Cu and S in the energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectra and the presence of CuS bonds in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicate NB formation. In addition, the quenching effect in photoluminescence studies confirmed NB formation. Production yields of amylase, phenolic compounds and pyruvate amounted to 11.2 μmol L−1, 52.5 μmol L−1 and 28 nmol μL−1, respectively, in A. niger–CuS Bio NBs on the third day of incubation in the bioreactor. Moreover, A niger cells–CuS Bio NBs had amino acids and lipid yields of 6.2 mg mL−1 and 26.5 mg L−1, respectively. Furthermore, probable mechanisms for the enhanced production of amylase, pyruvate and phenolic compounds are proposed.

CONCLUSION

Aspergillus niger–CuS NBs were used for the production of the amylase enzyme and value‐added compounds such as pyruvate and phenolic compounds. Aspergillus niger–CuS Bio NBs showed a greater efficiency compared to A. niger–CuS Che NBs as the biologically produced CuS nanoparticles had a higher compatibility with A. niger cells. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Fabrication of organobentonite by microwave‐assisted heating and its adsorption property for phenol
Authors: Ye Junxiu , Li Gufeng , Zhang Yao , Ji Shiju , Yang Min , Luo Lijun , Wang Hongbin , Li Jiaxiong , Li Guizhen
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

The adsorption removal of phenol onto bentonite that was prepared by the traditional hydrothermal method has been widely studied; especially, surfactant‐modified bentonite has achieved an exclusive position on effective removal to phenol. However, the adsorption performance of the bentonite functionalized by double‐carbon chain surfactants in a microwave field for phenol is relatively low. The study on the fabrication of organobentonite by microwave‐assistance to remove organic pollutants still needs to be investigated.

RESULTS

The adsorption performance of bentonite was enhanced after functionalizing with Dihexadecyldimethylammonium Bromide (D1621). FTIR and XRD patterns revealed that D1621 was successfully intercalated into bentonite, and the interval space was increased by 1.54 to 1.84 nm. The optimized preparation condition was obtained at a molar ratio (D1621: Bentonite) of 0.36, solid–liquid ratio (D1621 + Bent: water) of 0.12, microwave mode of Med, and thermal radiation for 6 min based on the indicator of phenol adsorption uptake. An excellent removal rate for phenol was observed at pH 2 to 7 and room temperature in adsorption tests. The adsorption process was spontaneous at room temperature according to thermodynamic parameters, and it agrees with Freundlich (R2 = 0.9781) and pseudo‐second‐order (R2 = 0.9999) models, validating a chemisorption process.

CONCLUSION

The D1621‐Bent perpetrated by using the microwave‐assisted heating method was proven to be a reliable adsorbent for phenol in water. The adsorption performance of bentonite on phenol was remarkably enhanced after the introduction of organic modifiers. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia with clonal evolution due to delay in chemotherapy: A report of a case
Authors: Haidary Ahmed Maseh , Saadaat Ramin , Abdul‐Ghafar Jamshid , Rahmani Soma , Noor Sarah , Noor Sahar , Nasir Najla , Ahmad Maryam , Zahier Ahmad Shekib , Zahier Rohullah , Malakzai Haider Ali , Ibrahimkhil Abdul Sami , Sharif Samuel , Baryali Tawab , Mohib Inamullah , Saqib Abdul Hadi , Azma Raja Zahratul
Published: June 2022

Clonal evolution in acute leukemias is one of the most important factors that leads to therapeutic failure and disease relapse. Delay in therapeutic intervention is one of the reasons that leads toward clonal evolution. In this report, we present a case of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in which therapeutic delay resulted in clonal evolution that was detected by conventional karyotyping and was responsible for non‐responsiveness of the disease to conventional chemotherapy. A 17‐year‐old boy presented with generalized body aches, rapidly progressive pallor and lethargy. Bone marrow analysis was consistent with the diagnosis of B‐cell ALL. Karyotypic analysis revealed 46, XY male karyotype. The patient left the hospital due to financial reasons and after 40 days came back to the hospital. Repeated bone marrow analysis including cytogenetic studies revealed presence of three different clones of blast cells: one clone showed 46, XY with del(9p) and t (11;14), second clone showed 46, XY with del(7q) and del(9p), and the third clone showed 46, XY normal karyotype. The patient did not respond to chemotherapy and died within 1 week of induction chemotherapy (HyperCVAD‐A). Timely diagnosis and institution of chemotherapy in acute leukemias patients is the key to prevent clonal evolution and thus resistance of the disease to therapeutic interventions.
Long‐term observation of the frequency of secondary colorectal cancer and other malignancies in tyrosine kinase inhibitor treated chronic myeloid leukemia patients and controls
Authors: Winkelmann Nina , Schwarz Michaela , Hildebrandt Bert , Henke Oliver , Bullinger Lars , Na Il‐Kang , Stintzing Sebastian , le Coutre Philipp
Published: June 2022

In this analysis, we examined the risk of secondary malignancies for tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients. We also collected data on specific risk factors for colorectal cancer. Ninety‐one patients with CML and 76 controls were included and in total 4 (4.4%) secondary malignancies were found in patients and 8 (10.5%) in controls. The risk for secondary malignancies was not significantly elevated for CML patients (p = 0.141). Two (2.2%) CML patients developed colorectal cancer compared to 4 (5.3%) in the reference group. A higher risk for CML patients for colorectal cancer could not be found (p = 0.414).
Contact-dependent, polarized acidification response during neutrophil–epithelial interactions
Authors: Cartwright Ian M , Dowdell Alexander S , Hanson Camila , Kostelecky Rachael E , Welch Nichole , Steiner Calen A , Colgan Sean P
Published: June 2022

Neutrophil (PMN) infiltration during active inflammation imprints changes in the local tissue environment. Such responses are often accompanied by significant extracellular acidosis that result in predictable transcriptional responses. In this study, we explore the mechanisms involved in inflammatory acidification as a result of PMN–intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) interactions. Using recently developed tools, we revealed that PMN transepithelial migration (TEM)-associated inflammatory acidosis is dependent on the total number of PMNs present during TEM and is polarized toward the apical surface. Extending these studies, we demonstrate that physical separation of the PMNs and IECs prevented acidification, whereas inhibition of PMN TEM using neutralizing antibodies enhanced extracellular acidification. Utilizing pharmaceutical inhibitors, we demonstrate that the acidification response is independent of myeloperoxidase and dependent on reactive oxygen species generated during PMN TEM. In conclusion, inflammatory acidosis represents a polarized PMN–IEC-dependent response by an as yet to be fully determined mechanism.
Impact of malnutrition on clinical outcomes in patients diagnosed with COVID‐19
Authors: Ponce Jana , Anzalone Alfred Jerrod , Bailey Kristina , Sayles Harlan , Timmerman Megan , Jackson Mariah , McClay James , Hanson Corrine ,   National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) Consortium
Published: June 2022

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is now the third leading cause of death in the United States. Malnutrition in hospitalized patients increases risk of complications. However, the effect of malnutrition on outcomes in patients infected is unclear. This study aims to identify the impact of malnutrition on mortality and adverse hospital events in patients hospitalized with COVID‐19.

Methods

This study used data from the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C), a COVID‐19 repository containing harmonized, longitudinal electronic health record data from US health systems. Malnutrition was categorized into three groups based on condition diagnosis: (1) none documented, (2) history of malnutrition, and (3) hospital‐acquired malnutrition. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine whether malnutrition was associated with mortality and adverse events, including mechanical ventilation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and hospital‐acquired pressure injury, in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19.

Results

Of 343,188 patients hospitalized with COVID‐19, 11,206 had a history of malnutrition and 15,711 had hospital‐acquired malnutrition. After adjustment for potential confounders, odds of mortality were significantly higher in patients with a history of malnutrition (odds ratio [OR], 1.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.63–1.79; P < 0.001) and hospital‐acquired malnutrition (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 2.4–2.6; P < 0.001). Adjusted odds of adverse hospital events were also significantly elevated in both malnutrition groups.

Conclusions

Results indicate the risk of mortality and adverse inpatient events in adults with COVID‐19 is significantly higher in patients with malnutrition. Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of malnutrition could be a key component in improving outcomes in these patients.
Identifying molecular functional groups of organic compounds by deep learning of NMR data
Authors: Li Chongcan , Cong Yong , Deng Weihua
Published: June 2022

We preprocess the raw nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrum and extract key features by using two different methodologies, called equidistant sampling and peak sampling for subsequent substructure pattern recognition. We also provide a strategy to address the imbalance issue frequently encountered in statistical modeling of NMR data set and establish two conventional support vector machine (SVM) and K‐nearest neighbor (KNN) models to assess the capability of two feature selections, respectively. Our results in this study show that the models using the selected features of peak sampling outperform those using equidistant sampling. Then we build the recurrent neural network (RNN) model trained by data collected from peak sampling. Furthermore, we illustrate the easier optimization of hyperparameters and the better generalization ability of the RNN deep learning model by detailed comparison with traditional machine learning SVM and KNN models.
Remote patient monitoring in neuromuscular disease
Authors: Geronimo Andrew
Published: June 2022

See article on pages 336‐339 in this issue
Reconsider how you adopt best practices to meet unique needs of adult learners
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: June 2022

“My interest in adult learners really comes from my own experience,” said Susan J. Barcinas, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Coordinator for the Adult, Workforce, and Continuing Education Program in the Department of Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development at North Carolina State University.
Towards fluid force estimation of a water‐jetting aerial robot with hybrid kinematics‐force model
Authors: Lee Shawndy M. , Ng Wei H. , Tang Emmanuel , Foong Shaohui
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a three‐dimensional hybrid kinematics‐force (HKF) model for fluid force estimation coupled with position optimization of an aerial robot capable of high‐pressure fluid ejection is presented. Motivated by the archerfish's unique (water‐jetting) hunting mechanics, the HKF model comprises of two sub‐models (hybrid kinematics and fluid force estimation) to maintain a specific fluid force at the point‐of‐contact (POC) during high altitude fluid jetting for high‐risk maintenance (cleaning) scenarios. Industries with high‐risk cleaning applications seek to employ robots to assist cleaners in routine operations on infrastructures or equipment at a height such as photovoltaic e‐glasses, impact‐sensitive objects, and many others. For a fluid jet, the stand‐off distance represents the length of the fluid trajectory between the nozzle orifice and POC, and is also a vital variable in fluid force control. If the stand‐off distance between the ejection source and the target is large, the fluid stream loses energy along the trajectory and the force at the POC is weakened thus losing some of the jet pressure at the target surface. The HKF model exploits this by estimating and maintaining a specific force at the POC through position optimization of the onboard nozzle coupled with the knowledge of the fluid parameters. To innovate high structure cleaning, the HKF model can be employed on an aerial robot with fluid ejection capabilities for accurate fluid force control at the POC. For high‐pressure fluid ejection (on horizontal and vertical structures), the HKF model is able to predict the (high pressure) fluid force at the POC with less than 10% error. The proposed HKF model is tested and verified through simulations and the experimentation results are validated by flying the physical prototypes in actual deployment scenarios.
Role of international strategic alliances in internationalization of business group affiliated firms—A system dynamics approach
Authors: Mishra Divya , Mital Amita , Srivastava Samir K.
Published: June 2022

Interest in business groups (BGs) and international strategic alliances (ISAs) has been of interest in recent times for both academics and practice. However, there are scant studies on the interface of ISAs of BGs and their internationalization performance. This study aims to explore the role of ISAs in the internationalization of BG affiliated firms (BGAFs) by taking a system dynamics approach. The paper explores how different configurations of ISA (motive, scope, structure, orientation and partner) and BG characteristics (diversity, ownership heterogeneity and resource endowment) impact the degree of internationalization (DOI) and financial performance of firms. The model was validated on 17 BGAFs across 8 diverse industrial sectors, subsequent to simulation studies of 60 variables manifesting in 6336 ISAs formed by 405 BGAFs and 440 Non‐BGAFs. Our findings suggest a curvilinear relationship between DOI and financial performance of BGAFs.
Distance sampling survey effort to improve density estimates of northern bobwhite
Authors: Montalvo Andrea , Brennan Leonard A. , Morrison Michael L. , Grahmann Eric D. , Tri Andrew N.
Published: June 2022

Distance sampling from aerial platforms can provide researchers with precise and efficient density estimates for wildlife populations, particularly over large areas. The intensity of the distance sampling survey depends on the survey effort. Effort can be referred to as coverage, where transect spacing is determined by the observer's sightability distance of the object or animal. Managers and researchers in Texas often use helicopters to survey and collect data for northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) density estimates. For bobwhites, 100% coverage represents transect spacing of 200 m, assuming observers can cover out to 100 m on either side of the transects. Often surveys are conducted at 50% coverage or 400 m spacing to reduce cost. Still, the implications of lowering survey effort on the precision of density estimates are unknown, particularly in coverage prescriptions. We flew 2,641 km of line transects each December from 2014 to 2017 and detected 2,333 bobwhite coveys across 7,648 ha of rangeland on the San Antonio Viejo Ranch in Jim Hogg County, TX, USA. We conducted line‐transect distance sampling from a helicopter platform at 50 and 100% coverage and simulated results at coverage <50% using empirical data. Based on the results of simulated surveys at <100% coverage, surveying for bobwhites using helicopters with less than 50% coverage results in variable density estimates (wide 95% confidence intervals) and low precision (coefficient of variation >20%). Empirical surveys conducted at 50 and 100% coverage show little variation in density estimates between the 2 levels of coverage. However, when broken into substrata (areas less than ~1,000 ha), conducting surveys at 50% coverage resulted in <60 detections, which led to low precision in density estimates (coefficient of variation >20%). Our results are based on surveys conducted at the juncture of the Coastal Sand Sheet and Tamaulipan Thorn Scrub ecoregions in south Texas and need to be evaluated in other arid and semi‐arid rangeland systems.
From infection to repair: Understanding the workings of our innate immune cells
Authors: Mawhinney Martin , Kulle Amelia , Thanabalasuriar Ajitha
Published: June 2022

In a world filled with microbes, some posing a threat to our body, our immune system is key to living a healthy life. The innate immune system is made of various cell types that act to guard our bodies. Unlike the adaptive immune system that has a specific response, our innate immune system encompasses cells that elicit unspecific immune responses, triggered whenever the right signals are detected. Our understanding of immunity started with the concept of our immune system only responding to “nonself” like the pathogens that invade our body. However, over the past few decades, we have learned that the immune system is more than an on/off switch that recognizes nonself. The innate immune system regularly patrols our bodies for pathogens and tissue damage. Our innate immune system not only seeks to resolve infection but also repair tissue injury, through phagocytosing debris and initiating the release of growth factors. Recently, we are starting to see that it is not just recognizing danger, our innate immune system plays a crucial role in repair. Innate immune cells phenotypically change during repair. In the context of severe injury or trauma, our innate immune system is modified quite drastically to help repair, resulting in reduced infection control. Moreover, these changes in immune cell function can be modified by sex as a biological variable. From past to present, in this overview, we provide a summary of the innate immune cells and pathways in infection and tissue repair.

This article is categorized under:

Immune System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
The Social and Ethical Component in AI Systems Design and Management
Authors: Mantelero Alessandro
Published: June 2022

The extensive and frequently severe impact of AI systems on society cannot be fully addressed by the human rights legal framework. Many issues involve community choices or individual autonomy requiring a contextual analysis focused on societal and ethical values. The social and ethical consequences of AI represent a complementary dimension, alongside that of human rights, that must be properly investigated in AI assessment, to capture the holistic dimension of the relationship between humans and machines. This assessment is more complicated than that of human rights, as it involves a variety of theoretical inputs on the underlying values, as well as a proliferation of guidelines. This requires a contextualised and, as far as possible, a participative analysis of the values of the community in which the AI solutions are expected to be implemented. Here the experts play a crucial role in detecting, contextualising and evaluating the AI solutions against existing ethical and social values. Ethics committees in scientific research, bioethics and clinical trials, as well as corporate AI ethics boards, can provide inputs for future AI expert committees within the HRESIA model. Based on the experience of these committees, the assessment cannot be entrusted entirely to experts, but it should also include a participatory dimension, which is essential to effective democratic decision-making process concerning AI.
Electroweak phase transition in the nearly aligned Higgs effective field theory
Authors: Kanemura Shinya , Nagai Ryo , Tanaka Masanori
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We investigate the strongly first-order electroweak phase transition using an effective field theoretical approach. The standard effective field theory with finite number truncation of higher dimensional operators fails in the typical parameter space where the strongly first-order phase transition is realized because it cannot describe the non-decoupling quantum effect of new physics beyond the standard model. To parameterize the non-decoupling quantum effect, we employ the nearly aligned Higgs effective theory in which the Higgs potential is parameterized by a Coleman-Weinberg like form. Extending this framework with finite temperature corrections, we study the parameter space for realizing the strongly first-order phase transition, and estimate the gravitational wave produced at the phase transition.
String integrability of the ABJM defect
Authors: Linardopoulos Georgios
Published: June 2022

Abstract

ABJM theory in the presence of a half-BPS domain wall is dual to the D2-D4 probe brane system with nonzero worldvolume flux. The ABJM domain wall was recently shown to be integrable to lowest order in perturbation theory and bond dimension. In the present paper we show that the string theory dual of this system is integrable, namely that the string boundary conditions on the probe D4-brane preserve the integrability of the Green-Schwarz sigma model. Our result suggests that the ABJM domain wall is integrable to all loop orders and for any value of the bond dimension.
Comorbidities in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Deichl Andrea , Wachter Rolf , Edelmann Frank
Published: June 2022

Chronic heart failure is one of the most common causes of hospitalization and death in industrialized countries. Demographic changes with an aging population are expected to further increase the prevalence of chronic heart failure. The associated increase in comorbidities in patients with chronic heart failure leads to a less favorable prognosis for survival. A selection of the major comorbidities discussed in this review—along with prevalence, impact on prognosis, treatment approaches, and current study status—include atrial fibrillation, arterial hypertension, coronary artery disease, coronary microvascular dysfunction, renal dysfunction, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, reduced lymphatic reserve, and the effects on oxygen utilization and physical activity. The complex clinical picture of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains challenging in the nearly absence of evidence-based therapy. Except for comorbidity-specific guidelines, no HFpEF-specific treatment of comorbidities can be recommended at this time. Optimized care is becoming increasingly relevant to reducing hospitalizations through a seamless inpatient and outpatient care structure. Current treatment is focused on symptom relief and management of associated comorbidities. Therefore, prevention through early minimization of risk factors currently remains the best approach.
NF-κB in control of regulatory T cell development, identity, and function
Authors: Hövelmeyer Nadine , Schmidt-Supprian Marc , Ohnmacht Caspar
Published: June 2022

Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) act as a major rheostat regulating the strength of immune responses, enabling tolerance of harmless foreign antigens, and preventing the development of pathogenic immune responses in various disease settings such as cancer and autoimmunity. Treg cells are present in all lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissues, and the latter often fulfill important tasks required for the physiology of their host organ. The activation of NF-κB transcription factors is a central pathway for the reprogramming of gene expression in response to inflammatory but also homeostatic cues. Genetic mouse models have revealed essential functions for NF-κB transcription factors in modulating Treg development and function, with some of these mechanistic insights confirmed by recent studies analyzing Treg cells from patients harboring point mutations in the genes encoding NF-κB proteins. Molecular insights into the NF-κB pathway in Treg cells hold substantial promise for novel therapeutic strategies to manipulate dysfunctional or inadequate cell numbers of immunosuppressive Treg cells in autoimmunity or cancer. Here, we provide an overview of the manifold roles that NF-κB factors exert in Treg cells.
Correlates of physical activity in adults with spondyloarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review
Authors: Ingram Thomas , Sengupta Raj , Standage Martyn , Barnett Rosie , Rouse Peter
Published: June 2022

Physical activity (PA) is a primary non-pharmacological treatment option for those living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritis (SpA). The aim of this systematic literature review was to summarize and present an updated synthesis of the factors associated with PA in the RA and SpA populations. A tailored search of PubMed (inc. Medline), Web of Science, Embase, APA PsycNET, and Scopus was conducted for research published between 2004 and June 2019. Methodological quality was assessed using The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Quality Assessment Tools for Observational Cohort and Cross-sectional Studies, Case–Control Studies, and Controlled Intervention Studies. Forty RA and eleven SpA articles met the inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was generally fair to good, with two RA studies rated as poor. Correlates are discussed in the sociodemographic, physical, psychological, social, and environmental categories. Environmental factors were not measured in any RA study. In individuals living with RA, consistent positive associations were found between PA and high-density lipoprotein, self-efficacy, and motivation. Consistent negative associations were found for functional disability and fatigue. In individuals with SpA, consistent positive associations were found between PA and quality of life, and consistent negative associations with functional disability. Physical and psychological factors are most consistently related with PA parameters in those living with RA and SpA. Many variables were inconsistently studied and showed indeterminant associations. Studies with prospective designs are needed to further understand the factors associated with PA in these populations, especially in those living with SpA.
Health effects related to exposure of static magnetic fields and acoustic noise—comparison between MR and CT radiographers
Authors: Glans Anton , Wilén Jonna , Lindgren Lenita , Björkman-Burtscher Isabella M. , Hansson Boel
Published: June 2022

Objectives

We explored the prevalence of health complaints subjectively associated with static magnetic field (SMF) and acoustic noise exposure among MR radiographers in Sweden, using CT radiographers as a control group. Additionally, we explored radiographers’ use of strategies to mitigate adverse health effects.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was sent to all hospitals with MR units in Sweden. MR and/or CT personnel reported prevalence and attribution of symptoms (vertigo/dizziness, nausea, metallic taste, illusion of movement, ringing sensations/tinnitus, headache, unusual drowsiness/tiredness, forgetfulness, difficulties concentrating, and difficulties sleeping) within the last year. We used logistic regression to test associations between sex, age, stress, SMF strength, working hours, and symptom prevalence. Data regarding hearing function, work-environmental noise, and strategies to mitigate adverse symptoms were also analysed.

Results

In total, 529 out of 546 respondents from 86 hospitals were eligible for participation. A ≥ 20 working hours/week/modality cut-off rendered 342 participants grouped into CT (n = 75), MR (n = 121), or mixed personnel (n = 146). No significant differences in symptom prevalence were seen between groups. Working at ≥ 3T increased SMF-associated symptoms as compared with working at ≤ 1.5T (OR: 2.03, CI95: 1.05–3.93). Stress was a significant confounder. Work-related noise was rated as more troublesome by CT than MR personnel (p < 0.01). MR personnel tended to use more strategies to mitigate adverse symptoms.

Conclusion

No significant differences in symptom prevalence were seen between MR and CT radiographers. However, working at 3T increased the risk of SMF symptoms, and stress increased adverse health effects. Noise nuisance was considered more problematic by CT than MR personnel.

Key Points

• No significant differences in symptom prevalence were seen between MR and CT radiographers.

• Working at ≥ 3 T doubled the odds of experiencing SMF symptoms (vertigo/dizziness, nausea, metallic taste, and/or illusion of movement) as compared to working exclusively at ≤ 1.5 T.

• Work-related acoustic noise was less well mitigated and was rated as more troublesome by CT personnel than by MR personnel.
Health literacy among long-term survivors of breast cancer; exploring associated factors in a nationwide sample
Authors: Vandraas Kathrine F. , Reinertsen Kristin V. , Kiserud Cecilie E. , Bøhn Synne K. , Lie Hanne C.
Published: June 2022

Background

Poor health literacy may hamper health management and long-term outcomes in breast cancer survivorship. Knowledge of factors associated with poor health literacy is needed to identify survivors in need of additional support and to improve the quality of health care, but is currently scant. Here, we explore health literacy and associated factors in a nationwide sample of long-term survivors of breast cancer.

Material and methods

All survivors aged 20–65 years when diagnosed with stage I–III breast cancer in 2011 or 2012 were identified through the Norwegian Cancer Registry, and invited to participate in the Survivorship, Work and Sexual Health (SWEET) study. Health literacy was measured using The European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire-12 (HLS-EU-Q12) and analyzed as a continuous and categorical variable. Associations between health literacy and socioeconomic, physical, and mental health variables, including the most common late effects after cancer treatment, were explored in uni- and multivariable linear regression models.

Results

The final sample consisted of 1355 survivors (48%) with a mean age of 60 years at survey (SD 8.7). Eight years had passed since diagnosis (SD.0.7), and the majority of survivors had high socioeconomic status. Advanced judgment calls concerning treatment and health risks were reported to be the most difficult for survivors to handle. Mean health literacy sum score was 36.2 (range 12–48, SD 5.4). Thirty-nine percent had intermediate, while 19.3% reported marginal or inadequate health literacy. Education, income, age at diagnosis, the personality trait neuroticism, and fear of cancer recurrence were significantly associated with health literacy in the multivariate model, explaining 12% of the variance in health literacy scores.

Conclusion

Low levels of health literacy were prevalent in this population-based sample of long-term survivors of breast cancer, despite high socioeconomic status. Communicating and interpreting risks seem to be especially challenging. Attention to health literacy at a societal and individual level is necessary in order to provide survivorship care of high quality.