bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ARID5B‐mediated LINC01128 epigenetically activated pyroptosis and apoptosis by promoting the formation of the BTF3/STAT3 complex in β2GPI/anti‐β2GPI‐treated monocytes
Authors: Tan Yuan , Qiao Jiao , Yang Shuo , Wang Qingchen , Liu Hongchao , Liu Qi , Feng Weimin , Yang Boxin , Li Zhongxin , Cui Liyan
Published: January 2024

Background

Alterations of the trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4me3) mark in monocytes are implicated in the development of autoimmune diseases. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to elucidate the role of H3K4me3‐mediated epigenetics in the pathogenesis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Methods

H3K4me3 Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation and Assay for Transposase‐Accessible Chromatin were performed to determine the epigenetic profiles. Luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pull‐down, co‐immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation were performed for mechanistic studies. Transmission electron microscopy and propidium iodide staining confirmed cell pyroptosis. Primary monocytes from patients with primary APS (PAPS) and healthy donors were utilised to test the levels of key molecules. A mouse model mimicked APS was constructed with beta2‐glycoprotein I (β2GPI) injection. Blood velocity was detected using murine Doppler ultrasound.

Results

H3K4me3 signal and open chromatin at the ARID5B promoter were increased in an in vitro model of APS. The epigenetic factor ARID5B directly activated LINC01128 transcription at its promoter. LINC01128 promoted the formation of the BTF3/STAT3 complex to enhance STAT3 phosphorylation. Activated STAT3 interacted with the NLRP3 promoter and subsequently stimulated pyroptosis and apoptosis. ARID5B or BTF3 depletion compensated for LINC01128‐induced pyroptosis and apoptosis by inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation. In mice with APS, β2GPI exposure elevated the levels of key proteins of pyroptosis and apoptosis pathways in bone marrow‐derived monocytes, reduced the blood velocity of the ascending aorta, increased the thrombus size of the carotid artery, and promoted the release of interleukin (IL)‐18, IL‐1β and tissue factor. Patients with PAPS had the high‐expressed ARID5B and LINC01128, especially those with triple positivity for antiphospholipid antibodies. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between ARID5B and LINC01128 expression.

Conclusion

This study indicated that ARID5B/LINC01128 was synergistically upregulated in APS, and they aggravated disease pathogenesis by enhancing the formation of the BTF3/STAT3 complex and boosting p‐STAT3‐mediated pyroptosis and apoptosis, thereby providing candidate therapeutic targets for APS.

Highlights

The H3K4me3 mark and chromatin accessibility at the ARID5B promoter are increased in vitro model mimicked APS.

ARID5B‐mediated LINC01128 induces pyroptosis and apoptosis via p‐STAT3 by binding to BTF3.

ARID5B is high‐ expressed in patients with primary APS and positively correlated with LINC01128 expression.

OICR‐9429 treatment mitigates pyroptosis and related inflammation in vivo and in vitro models mimicked APS.
The synergistic role of virtual coaching with simulation‐based mastery learning for upper endoscopy
Authors: Nguyen‐Vu Tiffany , Chin YungKa , Malvar Carmel , Cabral‐Prodigalidad Patricia Anne , De Lusong Mark , Maulahela Hasan , Mekaroonkamol Parit , Ong Andrew , Djajakusuma Angela , Myint Thomas , Nurmalihah Hilda , Asokkumar Ravishankar , Francisco Carlos , Liu Jesse , Rerknimitr Rungsun , Shergill Amandeep , Sanduleanu Silvia , Kaltenbach Tonya , Soetikno Roy
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Our simulation‐based mastery learning (SBML) curriculum, delivered in person, has been shown to successfully train novices in structured esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). SBML with virtual coaching (VC) has the potential to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of endoscopy training and expand access to trainees from around the world. We share our observations conducting an EGD training course using SBML with VC.

Methods

We conducted a 1‐week virtual SBML course for novice trainees across seven academic centers in the USA and Asia. The cognitive component was delivered using an online learning platform. For technical skills, a virtual coach supervised hands‐on training and local coaches provided assistance when needed. At the end of training, an independent rater assessed simulation‐based performance using a validated assessment tool. We assessed the clinical performance of 30 EGDs using the ASGE Assessment of Competency in Endoscopy tool. We compared the trainees’ scores to our cohort trained using in‐person SBML training using non‐inferiority t‐tests.

Results

We enrolled 21 novice trainees (mean age: 30.8 ± 3.6 years; female: 52%). For tip deflection, the trainees reached the minimum passing standard after 31 ± 29 runs and mastery after 52 ± 37 runs. For structured EGD, the average score for the overall exam was 4.6 ± 0.6, similar to the in‐person cohort (4.7 ± 0.5, p = 0.49). The knowledge‐based assessment was also comparable (virtual coaching: 81.9 ± 0.1; direct coaching: 78.3 ± 0.1; p = 0.385). Over time, our novice trainees reached clinical competence at a similar rate to our historical in‐person control.

Conclusions

VC appears feasible and effective for training novice gastroenterology trainees. VC allowed us to scale our SBML course, expand access to experts, and administer SBML simultaneously across different sites at the highest standards.
Autopsy findings in cases of fatal COVID‐19 vaccine‐induced myocarditis
Authors: Hulscher Nicolas , Hodkinson Roger , Makis William , McCullough Peter A.
Published: January 2024

COVID‐19 vaccines have been linked to myocarditis, which, in some circumstances, can be fatal. This systematic review aims to investigate potential causal links between COVID‐19 vaccines and death from myocarditis using post‐mortem analysis. We performed a systematic review of all published autopsy reports involving COVID‐19 vaccination‐induced myocarditis through 3 July 2023. All autopsy studies that include COVID‐19 vaccine‐induced myocarditis as a possible cause of death were included. Causality in each case was assessed by three independent physicians with cardiac pathology experience and expertise. We initially identified 1691 studies and, after screening for our inclusion criteria, included 14 papers that contained 28 autopsy cases. The cardiovascular system was the only organ system affected in 26 cases. In two cases, myocarditis was characterized as a consequence from multisystem inflammatory syndrome. The mean age of death was 44.4 years old. The mean and median number of days from last COVID‐19 vaccination until death were 6.2 and 3 days, respectively. We established that all 28 deaths were most likely causally linked to COVID‐19 vaccination by independent review of the clinical information presented in each paper. The temporal relationship, internal and external consistency seen among cases in this review with known COVID‐19 vaccine‐induced myocarditis, its pathobiological mechanisms, and related excess death, complemented with autopsy confirmation, independent adjudication, and application of the Bradford Hill criteria to the overall epidemiology of vaccine myocarditis, suggests that there is a high likelihood of a causal link between COVID‐19 vaccines and death from myocarditis.
Inflation forecasting with rolling windows: An appraisal
Authors: Hall Stephen G. , Tavlas George S. , Wang Yongli , Gefang Deborah
Published: January 2024

We examine the performance of rolling windows procedures in forecasting inflation. We implement rolling windows augmented Dickey–Fuller (ADF) tests and then conduct a set of Monte Carlo experiments under stylized forms of structural breaks. We find that as long as the nature of inflation is either stationary or non‐stationary, popular varying‐length window techniques provide little advantage in forecasting over a conventional fixed‐length window approach. However, we also find that varying‐length window techniques tend to outperform the fixed‐length window method under conditions involving a change in the inflation process from stationary to non‐stationary, and vice versa. Finally, we investigate methods that can provide early warnings of structural breaks, a situation for which the available rolling windows procedures are not well suited.
Can night trading reduce price volatility? Evidence from China's corn and corn starch futures markets
Authors: Xia Weiyi , Xiong Tao , Li Miao
Published: January 2024

Since 2013, China's futures exchanges have implemented night trading for agricultural futures to reduce the overnight risk and price jump of futures products by extending trading hours. This study uses difference‐in‐differences (DID) to examine the impacts of night trading on daytime price volatility in corn and corn starch futures markets. On the basis of tick‐by‐tick data for these futures, we find that night trading has significantly reduced daytime volatility and contributed to price volatility stability in the corresponding futures market. Moreover, we make DID estimations for separate daytime sessions and find that the reduction of the daytime volatility takes place mainly during the first trading session. Robustness and placebo tests further support our main conclusions. Our results provide valuable guidance for futures exchanges and regulators seeking to formulate night trading policies for futures and options.
Transoral robotic vertical partial laryngectomy (hemilaryngectomy) extended to the hypopharynx
Authors: Meliante Piero Giuseppe , Battilocchi Ludovica , Costantino Andrea , Lee Kyuin , Moon Seo Jin , Ralli Massimo , Minni Antonio , Capaccio Pasquale , Pignataro Lorenzo , de Vincentiis Marco , Kim Se‐Heon
Published: January 2024

Locally advanced laryngeal cancers treatment often involves total laryngectomy, which some patients are unwilling to undergo, even if this choice reduces their survival probability. Therefore, the objective of laryngeal oncologic surgery is not only to remove the tumor, but also to preserve the organ and its functions. To overcome these concerns, several partial laryngectomy techniques have been developed. This article describes the surgical technique and a case study of a 64‐year‐old male patient with locally advanced laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent vertical partial laryngectomy extending to the subglottis and hypopharynx using transoral robotic surgery (TORS) with a da Vinci Single Port surgical robot. The video and article provide a detailed description of the surgical technique, which resulted in successful tumor removal with excellent oncological and functional outcomes.
Heat transfer characteristics of thermo‐diffusion (Soret) and diffusion‐thermo (Dufour) effects in a square cavity containing a non‐Darcy porous medium
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Seenuvasan , Ramachandra Prasad Vallampati
Published: January 2024

The impact of the double‐diffusive natural convection of water in a square enclosure with diffusion‐thermo and thermo‐diffusion around the non‐Darcy porous medium is studied numerically. The top and bottom side walls of the cavity are maintained at constant temperatures, while the vertical left and right walls are considered to be cold. Water is considered the working fluid. The resulting nondimensional partial differential equation is solved by the Marker and Cell (MAC) method by using a staggered grid system. The Dufour and Soret effects processes will be a significantly essential role in the double‐diffusive velocity flow processes. For different values of the relevant parameters, the fluid flow velocity, temperature, and concentration are presented for various Rayleigh numbers, Prandtl numbers, non‐Darcy, thermo‐diffusion, and diffusion‐thermo. The streamlines, isotherms, and iso‐concentration contours are obtained using the MATLAB software. Finally, it is observed that the Nusselt numbers increased with non‐Darcy, thermo‐diffusion, and Rayleigh numbers and decreased with diffusion‐thermo effects.
Monitoring of optical properties of tumors during laser plasmon photothermal therapy
Authors: Genin Vadim D. , Bucharskaya Alla B. , Kirillin Mikhail Yu. , Kurakina Daria A. , Navolokin Nikita A. , Terentyuk Georgy S. , Khlebtsov Boris N. , Khlebtsov Nikolai G. , Maslyakova Galina N. , Tuchin Valery V. , Genina Elina A.
Published: January 2024

We studied grafted tumors obtained by subcutaneous implantation of kidney cancer cells into male white rats. Gold nanorods with a plasmon resonance of about 800 nm were injected intratumorally for photothermal heating. Experimental irradiation of tumors was carried out percutaneously using a near‐infrared diode laser. Changes in the optical properties of the studied tissues in the spectral range 350–2200 nm under plasmonic photothermal therapy (PPT) were studied. Analysis of the observed changes in the absorption bands of water and hemoglobin made it possible to estimate the depth of thermal damage to the tumor. A significant decrease in absorption peaks was observed in the spectrum of the upper peripheral part and especially the tumor capsule. The obtained changes in the optical properties of tissues under laser irradiation can be used to optimize laboratory and clinical PPT procedures.
Theoretical insights into photoinduced excited‐state behaviors for the novel CHPPhl fluorophore: Effects of solvent polarity
Authors: Li Chaozheng , Hou Mengmeng , Dong Hao , Liu Rivaille
Published: January 2024

Inspired by the distinguished photochemical and photophysical properties of novel hydroxyl‐substituted tetraphenylimidazole (HPI) derivatives that could be potentially applied across various disciplines, in this work, effects of solvent polarity on excited‐state hydrogen bond effects and excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) reaction of 3‐(6,9‐Diphenyl‐1H‐phenanthro[9,10‐d]imidazole‐2‐yl)‐9‐phenyl‐9H‐carbazol‐4‐ol (CHPPhl) are focused. By comparing the structural changes and infrared (IR) vibrational spectra of the E‐HBT fluorophore in polar acetone, moderate polar tetrahydrofuran and non‐polar hexane solvents, combined with the preliminary detection of hydrogen bond interaction by core–valence bifurcation (CVB) index, we can conclude that the hydrogen bond could be strengthened in S1 state, which is favorable for the occurrence of ESIPT reactions. The charge recombination behavior of hydrogen bond induced by photoexcitation also further illustrates this point. Via constructing potential energy curves (PECs) based on restrictive optimization and searching transition state (TS) form, we confirm change of surrounding solvent polarity has a regulatory effect on the ESIPT behavior for CHPPhl; that is, the lower the solvent polarity is more conducive to the ESIPT reaction.
Analysis of extracellular vesicle microRNA profiles reveals distinct blood and lymphatic endothelial cell origins
Authors: Pultar Marianne , Oesterreicher Johannes , Hartmann Jaana , Weigl Moritz , Diendorfer Andreas , Schimek Katharina , Schädl Barbara , Heuser Thomas , Brandstetter Marlene , Grillari Johannes , Sykacek Peter , Hackl Matthias , Holnthoner Wolfgang
Published: January 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial mediators of cell‐to‐cell communication in physiological and pathological conditions. Specifically, EVs released from the vasculature into blood were found to be quantitatively and qualitatively different in diseases compared to healthy states. However, our understanding of EVs derived from the lymphatic system is still scarce. In this study, we compared the mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression in blood vascular (BEC) and lymphatic (LEC) endothelial cells. After characterization of the EVs by fluorescence‐triggered flow cytometry, nanoparticle tracking analysis and cryo‐transmission electron microscopy (cryo‐TEM) we utilized small RNA‐sequencing to characterize miRNA signatures in the EVs and identify cell‐type specific miRNAs in BEC and LEC. We found miRNAs specifically enriched in BEC and LEC on the cellular as well as the extracellular vesicle level. Our data provide a solid basis for further functional in vitro and in vivo studies addressing the role of EVs in the blood and lymphatic vasculature.
miR‐451a suppresses the proliferation and migration of high‐grade serous ovarian cancer by targeting RAB5A through the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway
Authors: Liu Shujie , Wang Kun , Zhao Zhendan , Pang Yu , Liu Fang , Wang Pengling , Wang Zhiling , Yang Xingsheng
Published: January 2024

Background

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. Profiles changes of microRNAs (miRNAs) are closely linked to malignant tumors. In the present study, we investigated expression of miR‐451a in high‐grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). We also investigated the potential pathological roles and the likely mechanism of miR‐451a in the development of HGSOC using animal models and cell lines.

Methods

Using bioinformatics techniques and a real‐time PCR, we analyzed differently expressed miRNAs in HGSOC compared to normal tissue. MTT (i.e. 3‐[4, 5‐dimethyl thiazol‐2‐yl]‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide), EDU (i.e. 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine) and transwell assays were performed to investigate the effect of miR‐451a on the proliferation and migration of HGSOC SKOV‐3 cells. A dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify the targeting relationship of miR‐451 and RAB5A (one of the Rab GTPase proteins that regulates endocytosis and vesicle transport). Also, we analyzed levels of the RAB5A mRNA and protein by real‐time PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry assays in HGSOC cells and tissues. Finally, we performed in vivo experiments using HGSOC mice.

Results

miR‐451a was substantially upregulated in HGSOC and associated with favorable clinical characteristics. miR‐451a knockdown significantly increased growth and metastasis of HGSOC cell line SKOV‐3 through Ras/Raf/mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. In addition, RAB5A, an early endosome marker, was shown to be a direct target of miR‐451a. Moreover, RAB5A is correlated with unfavorable clinical features and shows independent prognostic significance in HGSOC.

Conclusions

We found that the miR‐451a/RAB5A axis is associated with tumorigenesis and progression through the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway, providing prognostic indicators and therapeutic targets for patients with HGSOC.
Impact of bare fallow management on soil carbon storage and aggregates across a rock fragment gradient
Authors: Schweizer Steffen A. , Aehnelt Michaela , Bucka Franziska , Totsche Kai Uwe , Kögel‐Knabner Ingrid
Published: January 2024

Background

Our understanding of C storage in soils lacks insights investigating organic matter (OM) depletion, often studied in bare fallow systems. The content of coarse rock fragments is often excluded, whereas it may affect C storage.

Aims

We aim to contribute to a better understanding of the impact of bare fallow on C storage mechanisms in the soil as influenced by its coarse rock fragment contents. We investigated whether bare fallow induced a depletion of C in OM fractions and analyzed to which extent this affected soil aggregate size distribution and the C loading of the clay‐sized fraction.

Methods

A comparison of 14 years bare fallow management with adjacent cropped soils located in Selhausen (Germany) provided a gradient of coarse rock fragments of 34%–71%, from which sites with three different fine earth (FE) contents were compared. Across the FE gradient, we isolated particulate OM and mineral‐associated OM fractions, obtained microaggregate and macroaggregate size fractions, and quantified the C loading.

Results

Bare fallow management induced an OM depletion at lower contents of FE. There, the management influence was more concentrated onto less FE volume. The contribution of both particulate and mineral‐associated OM fractions to the C in the low‐FE soils decreased. The C loading increased under bare fallow, compared to cropped soil. In the low‐FE soil, we also found less macroaggregates, whereas the C content decreased in some microaggregate size fractions.

Conclusions

A high content of coarse rock fragments can enhance OM depletion decreasing mineral‐associated and particulate C under bare fallow.
Tolerance development in cow's milk‐allergic children receiving amino acid‐based formula with synbiotics: 36‐Months follow‐up of a randomized controlled trial (PRESTO Study)
Authors: Chatchatee Pantipa , Nowak‐Wegrzyn Anna , Lange Lars , Benjaponpitak Suwat , Chong Kok W. , Sangsupawanich Pasuree , Eussen Simone R. B. M. , van Ampting Marleen T. J. , Oude Nijhuis Manon M. , Langford Jane E. , Trendelenburg Valerie , Pesek Robert , Davis Carla M. , Muraro Antonella , Erlewyn‐Lajeunesse Michel , Fox Adam T. , Michaelis Louise J. , Beyer Kirsten ,   PRESTO study team
Published: January 2024

The objective of the present study is to assess the rates of acquired tolerance to cow's milk (CM) after 36 months in subjects who consumed amino acid‐based formula with synbiotics (AAF‐S) or amino acid‐based formula without synbiotics (AAF) during a 1‐year intervention period in early life as part of the PRESTO study (Netherlands Trial Register number NTR3725). Differences in CM tolerance development between groups were analysed using a logistic regression model. Results show that the proportion of subjects (mean [±SD] age, 3.8 ± 0.27 years) who developed CM tolerance after 36 months was similar in the group receiving AAF‐S (47/60 [78%]) and in the group receiving AAF (49/66 [74%]) (p = 0.253), that is, figures comparable to natural outgrowth of CM allergy. Our data suggest that the consumption of AAF and absence of exposure to CM peptides do not slow down CM tolerance acquisition.
Identification and molecular docking of tyrosinase inhibitory peptides from allophycocyanin in Spirulina platensis
Authors: Yu Zhipeng , Lv Hong , Zhou Mingjie , Fu Pengcheng , Zhao Wenzhu
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Tyrosinase, a copper‐containing metalloenzyme with catalytic activity, is widely found in mammals. It is the key rate‐limiting enzyme that catalyzes melanin synthesis. For humans, tyrosinase is beneficial to the darkening of eyes and hair. However, excessive deposition of melanin in the skin can lead to dull skin color and lead to pigmentation. Therefore, many skin‐whitening compounds have been developed to decrease tyrosinase activity. This study aimed to identify a new tyrosinase inhibitory peptide through enzymatic hydrolysis, in vitro activity verification, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation.

RESULTS

A tripeptide Asp‐Glu‐Arg (DER) was identified, with a ‘‐CDOCKER_Energy’ value of 121.26 Kcal mol−1. DER has effective tyrosinase inhibitory activity. Research shows that its half maximal inhibitory concentration value is 1.04 ± 0.01 mmol L−1. In addition, DER binds to tyrosinase residues His85, His244, His259, and Asn260, which are key residues that drive the interaction between the peptide and tyrosinase. Finally, through MD simulation, the conformational changes and structural stability of the complexes were further explored to verify and supplement the results of molecular docking.

CONCLUSION

This experiment shows that DER can effectively inhibit tyrosinase activity. His244, His259, His260, and Asn260 are the critical residues that drive the interaction between the peptide and tyrosinase, and hydrogen bonding is an important force. DER from Spirulina has the potential to develop functional products with tyrosinase inhibition. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
To study the survival analysis and recurrence pattern in women treated for breast cancer: Retrospective study, a tertiary cancer center experience from Sub‐Himalayan Region of India
Authors: Sundram Shivangi , Nandi Sourabh , Arora Anshika , Saini Sunil
Published: January 2024

Background

Breast cancer is a leading health concern in India, comprising 25% of female cancers with significant mortality. This study was conducted at the Cancer Research Institute in the Northern Sub‐Himalayan region of India from 2016 to 2021, evaluated 674 breast cancer cases to analyze factors that influence recurrence.

Methodology

Retrospective clinical audit assessing patients’ survival outcomes using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard regression. Factors including age, molecular subtype, TNM staging, and treatment modalities were evaluated.

Results

Notable findings include a high occurrence of breast cancer in young patients (24.48% ≤ 40 years) and varying recurrence rates among molecular subtypes with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 neu‐enriched (25.24%) and triple‑negative breast cancer (22.58%) being the most common. Advanced T and N stages, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and the number of nodes dissected showed significant associations with higher recurrence rates.

Conclusion

This study sheds light on survival and recurrence patterns in Northern Sub‐Himalayan breast cancer patients, emphasizing the need for tailored treatment strategies, comprehensive follow‐up care, with improved understanding of regional outcomes. These findings contribute valuable insights for optimizing patient care and improving survival rates in this region.
Impact of travelers' consumer ethnocentrism on purchase and behavior intention: moderating effect of implicit prejudice
Authors: Kim Haeok Liz , Hyun Sunghyup Sean
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the effects of rigid thinking, ideology, and explicit and implicit prejudices on consumer ethnocentrism. Explicit and implicit prejudices significantly affected consumer ethnocentrism, but not travel behavioral intention. Among the three variances—Asian–European American, skin tone, and Arab‐Muslim Implicit Association Test (IAT)—used as implicit prejudice control variables, only implicit prejudice regarding Arab‐Muslim names significantly affected travel product purchase intention and travel behavior. The results revealed that consumers with strong consumer ethnocentrism are likely to avoid purchasing overseas travel products. These findings suggest the introduction of customized tourism marketing methods in countries with strong ethnocentrism.
Characteristics of market segmentation for sustainable medical tourism
Authors: Cha Jaebin , Jo Mina , Lee Timothy J. , Hyun Sunghyup Sean
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the characteristics of markets segmented by the push–pull factors associated with medical tourists. The questionnaire sought information on attributes of medical tourism motivations and included eight push factor attributes, 10 pull factor attributes, and 13 demographic and medical tourism behavior variables, for a total of 31 items. The surveys were translated into Chinese, Japanese, and English. This paper proposes a market segmentation that consists of three significant segments, the quality seeker, the essential services seeker, and the rest seeker. The results indicate that these segments have strategic implications for reaching individual markets in the medical tourism industry.
The effect of short‐form video on travel decision‐making process: An integration of AIDA and MGB models
Authors: Yang Zurui , Wang Saerom , Yoon Tae‐Hwan
Published: January 2024

With the upsurge of individual interest in short‐form video, this has become an important communication medium that has the potential to influence viewers' behavior. Based on the importance of understanding the relationship between short‐form video and the travel decision‐making process, this study attempted to examine this linkage in the context of Korean food by integrating the AIDA and MGB models. An online survey was conducted with the short‐form video audience in China. A total of 505 responses were analyzed by using PLS‐SEM. Based on the findings, this study verified the travel decision‐making process in visiting Korea under the influence of Korean food short‐form videos. This research contributes to the theoretical development of existing studies regarding short‐form videos as well as the integration of the AIDA and MGB models. Moreover, practical insights are provided for destination marketers in development and utilization of Korean food short‐form video as a marketing medium.
Rethinking landscape ecological risk assessment and its applicability: Counterintuitive findings from coastal areas
Authors: Liu Jianxiao , Liu Zhewei , Liu Xi
Published: January 2024

Landscape ecological risk assessment (LERA) serves as a crucial tool for guiding effective environmental management. However, the conventional approach of LERA suffers from two notable drawbacks: the utilization of low‐resolution land‐use data (e.g., 30 × 30 m) and the application of arbitrary evaluation units (e.g., uniformly‐sized grids), both of which introduce uncertainty and inaccuracies into the assessment outcomes. Moreover, the extent to which the traditional LERA accurately reflects the true ecological risk level remains unexplored. To address these limitations, this study presents a modified LERA conducted in Xiapu, a coastal county in China, spanning the years 2013–2015. Fine‐grained land‐use data were employed to overcome the shortcomings of low‐resolution data. Additionally, spatial correlations between land‐use changes and ecological risk alterations were analyzed to unravel the mechanisms behind land‐use changes' impact on ecological risk, while also testing the accuracy of LERA results. Major findings can be summarized as follows: (1) Ecological risk changes in Xiapu during 2013–2015 were relatively minor, with high‐risk areas predominantly concentrated along the coast. (2) A total of 1137 ha of land in Xiapu County experienced changes, with construction land witnessing the most substantial increase. (3) Counterintuitive and unreasonable LERA outcomes were identified, particularly pertaining to illogical ecological risk changes arising from transformations between construction and non‐construction land. (4) Based on the counterintuitive findings, potential factors affecting the limitations and applicability of LERA were discussed. This study represents the first critical examination of the limitations of LERA, offering valuable insights to stimulate future researchers to rethink LERA and emphasize the importance of validating assessment outcomes during its application.
Long‐term efficacy and safety of nonablative monopolar radiofrequency in the treatment of moderate to severe acne vulgaris
Authors: Manuskiatti Woraphong , Wongdama Supisara , Viriyaskultorn Noldtawat , Li Jayne Bernadeth , Kulthanan Kanokvalai , Techapichetvanich Thanya
Published: January 2024

Background

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a prevalent skin condition known for its potential to cause scarring and psychological distress, often leading to diminished self‐esteem. While topical and oral treatments are commonly prescribed, some patients experience treatment failure, adverse effects, or contraindications to conventional therapies. In response to these challenges, laser and energy‐based device therapies have emerged as promising alternatives for individuals who fall into these categories, showing considerable potential in the treatment of AV.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the long‐term efficacy and safety of a nonablative monopolar radiofrequency (NMRF) in treatment of moderate to severe AV.

Methods

Twenty‐four patients with moderate to severe AV underwent a series of two NMRF treatment sessions, spaced 4 weeks apart. To evaluate treatment outcomes, live in‐person lesion counts and measurements of pore size and volume, and sebum production were quantified using Antera® 3D imaging system, and Sebumeter®, respectively. Patients' self‐assessment data regarding degree of improvement and facial oiliness were gathered. Dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire was utilized to assess the impact of AV on their quality of life. All objective and subjective evaluations were conducted at the baseline, 1 month after the first treatment, and during follow‐up visits 1, 3, and 6 months after the last treatment sessions. Adverse effects were also recorded during each visit.

Results

Twenty out of the 24 subjects completed the study protocol. The mean inflammatory lesion counts significantly reduced by 42.86% and 45.71% from the baseline at 3 (p = 0.027) and 6 months (p = 0.032) after the second treatment. Sebum excretion likewise significantly decreased from baseline by 11.62% (p = 0.012), 13.37% (p < 0.001), and 21.51% (p = 0.004), 1 month after the first treatment, 1 and 6 months after the second treatment, respectively. The pore volume continued to decrease by 35% (p = 0.003) and 41.5% (p < 0.001) at 1 and 6 months following the final treatment, respectively. The DLQI significantly decreased from 10.00 (interquartile range [IQR]: 6.50−15.00) to 2.00 (IQR: 1.00−4.75), corresponding to 80% improvement of the index, 1 month after the last treatment and was sustained up to the last follow‐up visit. Patients' self‐assessments on degree of improvement and facial oiliness also significantly improved following NMRF treatments. The treatments were well‐tolerated without significant adverse effects.

Conclusion

NMRF appears to be an effective and safe treatment for inflammatory AV, with therapeutic outcomes persisting up to 6 months after two treatment sessions.
Dynamics of optical solitons in the extended (3+1)‐dimensional nonlinear conformable Kudryashov equation with generalized anti‐cubic nonlinearity
Authors: Mirzazadeh Mohammad , Hashemi Mir Sajjad , Akbulu Arzu , Ur Rehman Hamood , Iqbal Ifrah , Eslami Mostafa
Published: January 2024

The nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) is a fundamental equation in the field of nonlinear optics and plays an important role in the study of many physical phenomena. The present study introduces a new model that demonstrates the novelty of the paper and provides the advancement of knowledge in the area of nonlinear optics by solving a challenging problem known as the extended
‐dimensional nonlinear conformable Kudryashov's equation (CKE) with generalized anti‐cubic nonlinearity, which is a generalization of the NLSE to three spatial dimension and one temporal dimension for the first time. This work is significant because it advances our understanding of nonlinear optics and its applications to solve complex equations in physics and related disciplines. The extended hyperbolic function method (EHFM) and Nucci's reduction method are applied to the extended
‐dimensional nonlinear CKE with generalized anti‐cubic nonlinearity. The equation is solved by using the concept of conformable derivative, a recently developed operator in fractional calculus, which has advantages over other fractional derivatives in terms of accuracy and flexibility. The attained solutions include periodic singular, dark 1‐soliton, singular 1‐soliton, and bright 1‐soliton which are visualized using 3D and contour plots. This study highlights the potential of using conformable derivative and the applied techniques to solve complex nonlinear differential equations in various fields. The obtained solutions and analysis will be useful in the design and analysis of optical communication systems and other related fields. Overall, this study contributes for the understanding of the dynamics of the extended
‐dimensional nonlinear CKE and offers new insights into the use of mathematical techniques to tackle complex problems in physics and related fields.
On a singular epitaxial thin‐film growth equation involving logarithmic nonlinearity
Authors: Liu Huijie , Fang Zhong Bo
Published: January 2024

This paper is concerned with the well‐posedness and asymptotic behavior for a singular epitaxial thin‐film growth equation with logarithmic nonlinearity under the Navier boundary condition. Based on the technique of cut‐off and combining with Hardy–Sobolev inequality, the technique of Faedo–Galerkin, and multiplier, we establish the local solvability. Meantime, by virtue of the family of potential wells, we obtain the threshold between the existence and nonexistence of the global solution (including the critical case) and give the upper bound of lifespan and the estimate of blow‐up rate. Furthermore, the results of blow‐up with arbitrary initial energy and the lifespan are derived.
Characterization of coincidence site lattices generated by the composition of simple reflections of cubic lattices
Authors: Rodríguez‐Andrade Marco A. , Aragón‐González Gerardo , Aragón José L.
Published: January 2024

This work provides a comprehensive characterization of coincidence site lattices that arise from the compositions of the reflections of cubic lattices. For this purpose, we apply Cartan's theorem and use reflections as basic isometries, which allows the use of Clifford algebra as a powerful tool to handle reflections and products of reflections, leading to explicit expressions for coincidence indices and the basis of coincidence lattices. The three possible cases were studied: simple reflections, the product of two reflections (rotations), and the product of three reflections, where a factorization that produces improper rotations was provided. In the case of rotations, it is formally proven that Ranganathan's well‐known generating function of coincidence indices for cubic systems under rotations yields all possible coincidence lattices. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the mathematical properties of coincidence site lattices and the use of Clifford algebras to describe orthogonal transformations.
New bounds of Popoviciu's difference via weighted Hadamard type inequalities with applications in information theory
Authors: Rasheed Tahir , Ihsan Butt Saad , Pečarić Ðilda , Pečarić Josip
Published: January 2024

We generalize Popoviciu's inequality utilizing the theory of 4‐convex function under the effect of new Green functions. We formulate result for power means and quasi means. Also, we give applications in information theory by giving new estimations of generalized Csiszár divergence, Rényi divergence, Shannon entropy, Kullback–Leibler divergence,
divergence, Zipf–Mandelbrot entropy, and Hybrid Zipf–Mandelbrot entropy.
Segmental motor neuron dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Insights from H reflex paradigms
Authors: Castro José , Oliveira Santos Miguel , Swash Michael , de Carvalho Mamede
Published: January 2024

Introduction/Aims

In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the role of spinal interneurons in ALS is underrecognized. We aimed to investigate pre‐ and post‐synaptic modulation of spinal motor neuron excitability by studying the H reflex, to understand spinal interneuron function in ALS.

Methods

We evaluated the soleus H reflex, and three different modulation paradigms, to study segmental spinal inhibitory mechanisms. Homonymous recurrent inhibition (H'RI) was assessed using the paired H reflex technique. Presynaptic inhibition of Ia afferents (H'Pre) was evaluated using D1 inhibition after stimulation of the common peroneal nerve. We also studied inhibition of the H reflex after cutaneous stimulation of the sural nerve (H'Pos).

Results

Fifteen ALS patients (median age 57.0 years), with minimal signs of lower motor neuron involvement and good functional status, and a control group of 10 healthy people (median age 57.0 years) were studied. ALS patients showed reduced inhibition, compared to controls, in all paradigms (H'RI 0.35 vs. 0.11, p = .036; H'Pre 1.0 vs. 5.0, p = .001; H'Pos 0.0 vs. 2.5, p = .031). The clinical UMN score was a significant predictor of the amount of recurrent and presynaptic inhibition.

Discussion

Spinal inhibitory mechanisms are impaired in ALS. We argue that hyperreflexia could be associated with dysfunction of spinal inhibitory interneurons. In this case, an interneuronopathy could be deemed a major feature of ALS.
Theoretical solutions for the anchoring force of 3‐D anchored slope and optimization strategy for anchoring force distribution
Authors: Wang Linghui , Lu Kunlin , Zhu Dayong
Published: January 2024

Based on the three‐dimensional limit equilibrium method with modifying normal stress over the slip surface, this study presents a theoretical solution for the anchoring force of three‐dimensional slopes and proposes a new optimization strategy for anchor force distribution. The method employed the Boussinesq solution from the field of elasticity. It led to the derivation of an equilibrium equation set, which incorporated the anchoring force increment. As a result, the approach yielded a more accurate theoretical value for a three‐dimensional anchoring force. In practical engineering applications, the prestress of anchor cables is often uniformly set, which may lead to discrepancies in the anchoring force requirements at different locations on the slope, potentially resulting in resource waste. The research introduces a linear programming approach to optimize resource allocation, aiming to minimize the total anchoring force under fixed anchor cable quantities, installation angles, and locations. Nevertheless, the results from the Simplex Method could lead to an overly concentrated distribution of anchoring force. Therefore, the study further employs the normal distribution theory to reallocate anchoring forces, thus achieving a more reasonable distribution. The proposed method has been validated through three example studies and a practical engineering case study, resulting in significant reductions in the total anchoring force following optimization. Moreover, such an approach allows for optimized handling of the anchoring force for each anchor cable. The work provides a new perspective and tool for practical engineering applications.
Patient reported outcomes of intermittent self‐dilatation after direct vision internal urethrotomy
Authors: Scheipner Lukas , Jankovic Doroteja , Jasarevic Samra , Seidl Matthias , Altziebler Julia V. , Pemberger Karl , Pohl Klara C. , Primus Günter , Tian Zhe , Leitsmann Marianne , Ahyai Sascha
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Long‐term results on quality of life (QoL) as well as clinical outcomes of intermittent self‐dilatation (ISD) of the urethra after direct visual internal urethrotomy (DVIU) are scarce. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate patient reported outcomes (PROs) on voiding symptoms and QoL in a large cohort of urethral stricture patients performing ISD.

Methods

We identified a total of 121 patients who performed ISD following DVIU between 2008 and 2013. Baseline assessment was conducted for each patient before ISD was started. Follow‐up visits were scheduled in 6‐month intervals. Each assessment included the following questionnaires: International prostate symptom score (IPSS), IPSS quality of life index (IPSS‐QoL), patient global impression of severity (PGI‐S), and patient global impression of improvement (PGI‐I). Additional parameters were maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual urine, rate of complications, and stricture recurrence. Linear mixed models were used to examine the change over the course of the follow‐up visits to the baseline.

Results

The median age of the patients was 58 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 43−70). The median follow‐up was 17 months (IQR: 7−30). Mean change from baseline IPSS was −6.1, −5.9, −4.2, and −4.8 points at 6, 24, 36, and 48 months. Mean change from baseline IPSS‐QoL was −1.3, −1.4, −1.6, and −1.8 points, respectively. Mean PGI‐I was 1.7 points at 6, 1.9 points at 24, 1.9 points at 36, and 2.2 points at 48 months after ISD initiation. Mean change of Qmax ranged from 1.7 at 6 to 2.2 mL/s at 48 months. The median complication rate was 3.3% per 6‐month ISD interval. Overall, 11 patients developed stricture recurrence (9%).

Conclusion

ISD after DVIU had no negative impact on patients' QoL (IPSS‐QoL, PGI‐I, PGI‐S). Urodynamic parameters remained stable for up to 48 months with low complications and an acceptable stricture recurrence rate.
Black box in overactive bladder: Central sensitization and its relationship with urinary symptom severity and quality of life
Authors: Celenay Seyda T. , Altay Hafize , Bulbul Saliha B. , Oskay Kemal
Published: January 2024

Aim

To examine central sensitization (CS), and to investigate the relationship between CS, and urinary symptom severity, and quality of life (QoL) in women with overactive bladder (OAB).

Materials and Methods

A total of 144 women with OAB included the study. CS with the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), urinary symptom with the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire‐Version 8 (OAB‐V8), bladder diary and Patients' Perception of Intensity of Urgency Scale (PPIUS) and QoL with the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ) were assessed.

Results

It was found that 47.9% (n = 69) of women with OAB had CS. It was observed that the CSI score was related to the OAB‐V8 score (ρ = 0.327; p < 0.001) and the average number of voids/day (ρ = 0.291; p < 0.001). Additionally, urgency severity was higher in women with OAB with CS than in women with OAB without CS (p = 0.006). There was a relationship between the CSI score and KHQ‐incontinence impact (ρ = 0.250; p = 0.012), KHQ‐personal relationship (ρ = 0.253; p = 0.002), KHQ‐sleep/energy (ρ = 0.180; p = 0.031), KHQ‐emotional state (ρ = 0.310; p < 0.001) and KHQ‐severity measurement scores (ρ = 0.391; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this study, it was observed that the majority of women with OAB had CS. It was found that more severe symptoms of CS were associated with worse urinary symptom severity and QoL in these patients. It may be beneficial to evaluate CS in the management of OAB and to consider CS when determining treatment strategies.
A generalized QUCESOP method with evaluating CEST peak overlap
Authors: Wang Yi , Sun Yi‐Xuan , Yang Qiu‐Yu , Gao Jia‐Hong
Published: January 2024

The overlapping peaks of the target chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) solutes and other unknown CEST solutes affect the quantification results and accuracy of the chemical exchange parameters—the fractional concentration,
, exchange rate,
, and transverse relaxation rate,
—for the target solutes. However, to date, no method has been established for assessing the overlapping peaks. This study aimed to develop a method for quantifying the
,
, and
values of a specific CEST solute, as well as assessing the overlap between the CEST peaks of the specific solute(s) and other unknown solutes. A simplified
model was proposed, assuming linear approximation of the other solutes' contributions to
. A CEST data acquisition scheme was applied with various saturation offsets and saturation powers. In addition to fitting the
,
, and
values of the specific solute, the overlapping condition was evaluated based on the root mean square error (RMSE) between the trajectories of the acquired and synthesized data. Single‐solute and multi‐solute phantoms with various phosphocreatine (PCr) concentrations and pH values were used to calculate the
and
of PCr and the corresponding RMSE. The feasibility of RMSE for evaluating the overlapping condition, and the accurate fitting of
and
in weak overlapping conditions, were verified. Furthermore, the method was employed to quantify the nuclear Overhauser effect signal in rat brains and the PCr signal in rat skeletal muscles, providing results that were consistent with those reported in previous studies. In summary, the proposed approach can be applied to evaluate the overlapping condition of CEST peaks and quantify the
,
, and
values of specific solutes, if the weak overlapping condition is satisfied.