bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anaerobic Lactate Production Is Associated With Decreased Microcirculatory Blood Flow and Decreased Mitochondrial Respiration Following Cardiovascular Surgery With Cardiopulmonary Bypass*
Authors: Greenwood John C. , Talebi Fatima M. , Jang David H. , Spelde Audrey E. , Gordon Emily K. , Horak Jiri , Acker Michael A. , Kilbaugh Todd J. , Shofer Frances S. , Augoustides John G. T. , Brenner Jacob S. , Muzykantov Vladimir R. , Bakker Jan , Abella Benjamin S.
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES:

Quantify the relationship between perioperative anaerobic lactate production, microcirculatory blood flow, and mitochondrial respiration in patients after cardiovascular surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass.

DESIGN:

Serial measurements of lactate-pyruvate ratio (LPR), microcirculatory blood flow, plasma tricarboxylic acid cycle cycle intermediates, and mitochondrial respiration were compared between patients with a normal peak lactate (≤ 2 mmol/L) and a high peak lactate (≥ 4 mmol/L) in the first 6 hours after surgery. Regression analysis was performed to quantify the relationship between clinically relevant hemodynamic variables, lactate, LPR, and microcirculatory blood flow.

SETTING:

This was a single-center, prospective observational study conducted in an academic cardiovascular ICU.

PATIENTS:

One hundred thirty-two patients undergoing elective cardiovascular surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Patients with a high postoperative lactate were found to have a higher LPR compared with patients with a normal postoperative lactate (14.4 ± 2.5 vs. 11.7 ± 3.4; p = 0.005). Linear regression analysis found a significant, negative relationship between LPR and microcirculatory flow index (r = –0.225; β = –0.037; p = 0.001 and proportion of perfused vessels: r = –0.17; β = –0.468; p = 0.009). There was not a significant relationship between absolute plasma lactate and microcirculation variables. Last, mitochondrial complex I and complex II oxidative phosphorylation were reduced in patients with high postoperative lactate levels compared with patients with normal lactate (22.6 ± 6.2 vs. 14.5 ± 7.4 pmol O2/s/106 cells; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS:

Increased anaerobic lactate production, estimated by LPR, has a negative relationship with microcirculatory blood flow after cardiovascular surgery. This relationship does not persist when measuring lactate alone. In addition, decreased mitochondrial respiration is associated with increased lactate after cardiovascular surgery. These findings suggest that high lactate levels after cardiovascular surgery, even in the setting of normal hemodynamics, are not simply a type B phenomenon as previously suggested.
Impact of gene expression profiling on diagnosis and survival after metastasis in patients with uveal melanoma
Authors: Suwajanakorn D. , Lane A.M. , Go A.K. , Hartley C.D. , Oxenreiter M. , Wu F. , Gragoudas E.S. , Sullivan R.J. , Montazeri K. , Kim I.K.
Published: April 2024

Surveillance frequency for metastasis is guided by gene expression profiling (GEP). This study evaluated the effect of GEP on time to diagnosis of metastasis, subsequent treatment and survival. A retrospective study was conducted of 110 uveal melanoma patients with GEP (DecisionDx-UM, Castle Biosciences, Friendswood, Texas, USA) and 110 American Joint Committee on Cancer-matched controls. Surveillance testing and treatment for metastasis were compared between the two groups and by GEP class. Rates of metastasis, overall survival and melanoma-related mortality were calculated using Kaplan–Meier estimates. Baseline characteristics and follow-up time were balanced in the two groups. Patients’ GEP classification was 1A in 41%, 1B in 25.5% and 2 in 33.6%. Metastasis was diagnosed in 26.4% (n = 29) in the GEP group and 23.6% (n = 26) in the no GEP group (P = 0.75). Median time to metastasis was 30.5 and 22.3 months in the GEP and no GEP groups, respectively (P = 0.44). Median months to metastasis were 34.7, 75.8 and 26.1 in class 1A, 1B and 2 patients, respectively (P = 0.28). Disease-specific 5-year survival rates were 89.4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 81.0–94.2%] and 84.1% (95% CI: 74.9–90.1%) in the GEP and no GEP groups respectively (P = 0.49). Median time to death from metastasis was 10.1 months in the GEP group and 8.5 months in the no GEP group (P = 0.40). There were no significant differences in time to metastasis diagnosis and survival outcomes in patients with and without GEP. To realize the full benefit of GEP, more sensitive techniques for detection of metastasis and adjuvant therapies are required.
Clinical efficacy of EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis versus EUS-guided celiac ganglion irradiation with iodine-125 seeds for pain relief in advanced pancreatic cancer: A long-term retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Ping-Ping , Su Xiao-Ju , Li Li , Wang Yu-Ling , Zhu Dong-Qing , Yang Ting , Wang Teng , Jin Zhen-Dong , Wang Kai-Xuan
Published: April 2024

Background and Objective

To compare the efficacy of EUS–guided celiac plexus neurolysis (CPN) and celiac plexus irradiation with iodine-125 (125I) seeds with absolute ethanol for relieving pain in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data of 81 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who underwent EUS-CPN or EUS-125I implantation between January 2017 and December 2020. Postoperative pain was assessed using visual analog scale (VAS) scores; self-assessments of quality of life and the median survival time were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

EUS-CPN and 125I implantation were performed in 43 and 38 patients, respectively. Postoperative VAS scores were significantly lower than the preoperative levels in both groups. One week after the operation, 26 patients (60.5%) in the EUS-CPN group achieved partial pain relief, whereas no patients in the EUS-125I seed group experienced pain relief. However, after 4 weeks postoperatively, VAS scores had decreased, and the rate of partial pain relief was higher for EUS-125I seeds than for EUS-CPN. Self-assessments of quality of life were similar in both groups during the first 1 month after the procedure.

Conclusions

Both EUS-CPN and EUS-125I seeds can safely and effectively relieve pain in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Although EUS-125I seeds take additional time to show effects, the extent and duration of pain relief are better compared with CPN, and interestingly, the median survival time was different.
N-N-Butyl Haloperidol Iodide Mitigates Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury Through Activation of SIRT1-Nrf2 Signaling Loop
Authors: Lu Binger , Feng Zikai , Wang Yali , Liao Jilin , Wang Bin , Gao Fenfei , Zheng Fuchun , Shi Ganggang , Zhang Yanmei
Published: April 2024

N-n-butyl haloperidol iodide (F2), a derivative of haloperidol developed by our group, exhibits potent antioxidative properties and confers protection against cardiac ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. The protective mechanisms by which F2 ameliorates I/R injury remain obscure. The activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a key transcription factor transactivating many antioxidative genes, also attenuates I/R-induced myocardial damage. The present study investigated whether the cardioprotective effect of F2 depends on Nrf2 using a mouse heart I/R model. F2 (0.1, 0.2 or 0.4 mg/kg) or vehicle was intravenously injected to mice 5 minutes before reperfusion. Systemic administration of 0.4 mg/kg F2 led to a significant reduction in I/R injury, which was accompanied by enhanced activation of Nrf2 signaling. The cardioprotection conferred by F2 was largely abrogated in Nrf2-deficient mice. Importantly, we found F2-induced activation of Nrf2 is silent information regulator of transcription 1 (SIRT1)-dependent, as pharmacologically inhibiting SIRT1 by the specific inhibitor EX527 blocked Nrf2 activation. Moreover, F2-upregulated expression of SIRT1 was also Nrf2-dependent, as Nrf2 deficiency inhibited SIRT1 upregulation. These results indicate that SIRT1-Nrf2 signaling loop activation is indispensable for the protective effect of F2 against myocardial I/R injury and may provide new insights for the treatment of ischemic heart disease.
Remnant cholesterol and risk of major adverse cardiovascular events: a systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Bian Xiaoran , Zhang Yonghao , Shao Min , Li Jiachen , Ge Jiaju , Li Zhuofan , Peng Hao , Zhang Mingzhi
Published: April 2024

Emerging evidence indicates a significant role of remnant cholesterol in contributing to the residual risk associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). This study aims to evaluate the dose–response relationship between remnant cholesterol and the risk of MACE. PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were reviewed to identify cohort studies published in English up to 1 August 2023. Twenty-eight articles were selected. Pooled hazard ratios (HR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using fixed or random-effects models to evaluate the association between remnant cholesterol and the risk of MACE. The dose–response relationship between remnant cholesterol levels and the risk of MACE was analyzed using the linear model and restricted cubic spline regression models. For calculated remnant cholesterol levels, the pooled HR (95% CI) of MACE for per 1-SD increase was 1.13 (1.08, 1.17); HR (95% CI) for the second quartile (Q2), the third quartile (Q3) and the highest quartile (Q4) of remnant cholesterol levels were 1.14 (1.03, 1.25), 1.43 (1.23, 1.68) and 1.68 (1.44, 1.97), respectively, compared with the lowest quartile (Q1). For measured remnant cholesterol levels, the pooled HR (95% CI) of MACE per 1-SD increase was 1.67 (1.39, 2.01). The dose–response meta-analysis showed a dose–response relationship between remnant cholesterol levels and the risk of MACE, both on a linear trend (P < 0.0001) and a nonlinear trend (P < 0.0001). The risk of MACE is associated with increased levels of remnant cholesterol, and the dose–response relationship between remnant cholesterol levels and the risk of MACE showed both linear and nonlinear trends.
Electroacupuncture alters brain network functional connectivity in subacute stroke: A randomised crossover trial
Authors: Li Mingfen , Zou Fei , Zheng Tingting , Zou Weigeng , Li Haifeng , Lin Yifang , Peng Li , Zheng Su
Published: April 2024

Background:

Electroacupuncture (EA) is a promising rehabilitation treatment for upper-limb motor recovery in stroke patients. However, the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying its clinical efficacy remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the immediate modulatory effects of EA on brain network functional connectivity and topological properties.

Methods:

The randomized, single-blinded, self-controlled two-period crossover trial was conducted among 52 patients with subacute subcortical stroke. These patients were randomly allocated to receive either EA as the initial intervention or sham electroacupuncture (SEA) as the initial intervention. After a washout period of 24 hours, participants underwent the alternate intervention (SEA or EA). Resting state electroencephalography signals were recorded synchronously throughout both phases of the intervention. The functional connectivity (FC) of the parietofrontal network and small-world (SW) property indices of the whole-brain network were compared across the entire course of the two interventions.

Results:

The results demonstrated that EA significantly altered ipsilesional parietofrontal network connectivity in the alpha and beta bands (alpha: F = 5.05,P = .011; beta: F = 3.295,P = .047), whereas no significant changes were observed in the SEA group. When comparing between groups, EA significantly downregulated ipsilesional parietofrontal network connectivity in both the alpha and beta bands during stimulation (alpha:t = −1.998,P = .049; beta:t = −2.342,P = .022). Significant differences were also observed in the main effects of time and the group × time interaction for the SW index (time: F = 5.516,P = .026; group × time: F = 6.892,P = .01). In terms of between-group comparisons, the EA group exhibited a significantly higher SW index than the SEA group at the post-stimulation stage (t = 2.379,P = .018).

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that EA downregulates ipsilesional parietofrontal network connectivity and enhances SW properties, providing a potential neurophysiological mechanism for facilitating motor performance in stroke patients.
A 10-year-old female with Cor triatriatum sinister (CTS): a rare case report and literature review from Syria
Authors: Sleiay Mouhammmed , Sleiay Bilal , Hussein Bassam , Jawad Ali , Hassan Bassam , Masri Mahmod , Stitieh Youmna , Alokla Abdulrahim , Mansour Marah
Published: April 2024

Introduction and importance:

Cor triatriatum sinister (CTS) is an uncommon heterogeneous congenital cardiac defect that may manifest in adulthood when symptomatic blockage manifests due to a change in hemodynamic physiology or when a condition such as atrial fibrillation (AF) arises. The incidence of cor triatriatum with cardiomyopathy and congenital heart illness ranges from 0.1 to 0.4%.

Case presentation:

The Department of Cardiology examined a 10-year-old girl for a diastolic murmur. The patient’s medical history was ordinary, and no previously known co-morbid illnesses were present. Pneumonia was the patient’s original medical condition. A cardiac murmur was also discovered during the physical examination, and the patient was forwarded for more research. Physical examination revealed just a diastolic murmur, which was noteworthy. The patient’s care plan includes routine echocardiographic monitoring. Since the deformity was not clinically significant, surgical repair was not advised.

Clinical discussion:

It is unclear what caused this flaw. A full, incomplete, or fenestrated septum may be the result of the common pulmonary vein failing to merge with the left atrium during embryonic development. The existence of a fibromuscular membrane, which separates the left atrium (LA) into two chambers—the proximal chamber receiving the pulmonary veins (PVs) and the distal chamber contains the mitral valves and LA appendages defines the disease.

Conclusion:

The diagnostic procedure should be carried out in the optimal settings, however, in cases of frail health systems, employing accessible alternatives might help the early diagnosis. Early referral to a cardiologist is required in case of CTS suspicion.
Saffron extract as an emerging novel therapeutic option in reproduction and sexual health: recent advances and future prospectives
Authors: Goyal Aman , Raza Fatima Ali , Sulaiman Samia Aziz , Shahzad Abeer , Aaqil Syeda Ilsa , Iqbal Mahrukh , Javed Binish , Pokhrel Prakriti
Published: April 2024

Saffron, derived from Crocus sativus, is gaining research attention for potential therapeutic applications. Its diverse clinical applications extend to cardiovascular health, diabetes management, sleep quality, psychiatric illnesses, and rheumatoid arthritis. Saffron’s positive effects on blood pressure, glucose levels, cognitive function, and inflammatory markers contribute to its versatility. Additionally, carotenoids like crocin and crocetin suggest anti-cancer potential. In terms of reproductive health, saffron’s impact on male reproductive health shows conflicting findings on semen parameters. However, in female reproductive health, saffron appears promising for managing dysmenorrhoea, reducing menstrual pain, regulating hormonal fluctuations, and improving overall menstrual health. Safety considerations highlight the importance of adhering to specified dosages, as excessive intake may lead to toxicity. Yet, within the therapeutic range, saffron is considered safe, relieving symptoms without serious side effects, according to clinical research. Future trials in 2023 will explore saffron’s potential in cancer therapy, diabetes management, mental health, stress response, cardiovascular health, postmenopausal women’s well-being, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This ongoing research underscores saffron’s adaptability and promise as a natural treatment across various medical applications, emphasizing its efficacy. The current review, therefore, aims to provide up-to-date insights on saffron’s role particularly in the realm of reproductive health, contributing to a growing body of evidence supporting its diverse therapeutic benefits.
Clinico-radiological correlation with outcome in acute epidural haematoma: a tertiary centre experience from Nepal
Authors: Chakradhar Rupesh , Harrylal Kayleigh Anjali , Kumari Khusbu , Karki Susmin , Sedain Gopal , Pradhanang Amit , Shilpakar Sushil K. , Sharma Mohan Raj
Published: April 2024

Background:

Epidural haematoma (EDH) accounts for up to 15% of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases and remains the most common cause of mortality and disability. Several clinical and radiological factors affect patient outcomes. This study aims to correlate patients’ clinical and radiological profiles with acute EDH outcomes.

Methods:

A retrospective, single-centred, consecutive case series was conducted on the patients diagnosed with an acute EDH admitted to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH) between May 2019 and April 2023. The modified Rankin scale (mRS) was used to assess the outcome. Univariate analysis and Kruskal–Wallis H test with Dunn-Bonferroni post-hoc test was conducted.

Results:

There were 107 patients diagnosed with EDH, of which 52.3% were less than 20 years old with male preponderance. Falls were the most common mechanism of injury (64.5%), and most cases were referred to, not brought directly. The majority had a GCS score greater than or equal to 13 (85%) at presentation, and only 5.5% had a GCS score less than or equal to 8. According to the mRS, most patients had favourable outcomes, with 88.7% having no significant disability and 11.3% having a slight disability.

Conclusion:

This case series is the largest and most recent report from Nepal and demonstrated that GCS, pupillary response, skull fracture, neurological symptoms, pre-hospital and intra-hospital delay, and management modalities are critical factors in determining the total hospital and ICU stay but did not have an impact on the mRS scores.
“Izervay (avacincaptad pegol): paving the way for vision preservation in geographic atrophy”
Authors: Shakeel Laiba , Khan Afsheen , Akilimali Aymar
Published: April 2024

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive retinal disease that primarily affects the macula, leading to central vision loss and impaired color vision. Among its most severe forms is geographic atrophy (GA), which results in irreversible central blindness. While numerous risk factors, including age, smoking, and genetics, contribute to the development of AMD, effective treatment options for GA have been limited. This article centers on Izervay [avacincaptad pegol (ACP)], an FDA-approved drug designed to address the unmet medical needs of patients with GA secondary to AMD. The pathophysiology of GA involves oxidative damage, chronic inflammation, and cell death, primarily due to complement system dysregulation. Previous treatments for GA have shown limited efficacy, leaving patients searching for more effective solutions. Izervay, with its unique mechanism of action, inhibits complement protein C5, disrupting the formation of the membrane attack complex and slowing retinal cell degeneration. Clinical trials have demonstrated Izervay’s ability to significantly reduce the growth of GA lesions, offering hope for improved outcomes. Additionally, the drug has exhibited a tolerable safety profile, with common side effects including conjunctival hemorrhage and increased intraocular pressure. Izervay represents a breakthrough in AMD treatment, offering the potential to preserve vision in those at risk of irreversible vision loss due to GA. While further research is necessary to evaluate long-term efficacy and accessibility, its approval opens new possibilities in AMD management, transforming the lives of individuals affected by this condition.
Effects of Lactococcus lactis on colorectal cancer in various terms: a narrative review
Authors: Rivai Muhammad Iqbal , Lusikooy Ronald Erasio , Putra Andani Eka , Elliyanti Aisyah
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers with an increasing number of cases. Various studies have found an association between the gut microbiota balance and colorectal cancer incidence. Lactococcus lactis is a probiotic bacterium found in fermented foods, particularly yogurt and cheese. This probiotic has been shown to reduce various anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory agents that trigger cancer, such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-18, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and natural killer (NK) cells.

Methods:

Full-text articles and original research published in the last ten years were used as references, and “Lactococcus and colorectal cancer” as keywords. The reference search is on several databases, such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and Nature. Searching results obtained eleven articles.

Discussion:

Lactococcus lactis does have a perfect role in suppressing cancer cells. Lactococcus lactis has anti-proliferative effects associated with decreased cyclin D1 expression in SW480 cell lines, decreased NK cells, reduced cancer cell viability, decreased IL-8 levels, and decreased IL-6.

Conclusion:

Lactococcus lactis contains nisin, which can suppress various gene, protein, and cytokine expressions that play a role in cancer cell growth. Probiotics can inhibit colorectal cancer without significant side effects.
Discovery of a novel antibiotic, Transitmycin, fromStreptomycessp unveils highly efficient activities against tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Kumar Vanaja , Ramasamy Balagurunathan , Doble Mukesh , Manikkam Radhakrishnan , Hanna Luke Elizabeth , Arumugam Gandarvakottai Senthilkumar , Damodharan Kannan , Ganesan Suresh , Dusthakeer Azger , Lucia Precilla , Saadhali Shainaba A , John Shanthi , Eswaran Poongothai , Nagamiah Selvakumar , UCA Jaleel , M Rakhila , Safeeda Ayisha , S Sathish
Published: April 2024

HIV is identified as a factor that aggravates tuberculosis disease pathogenesis and its progression to latent TB. While, TB is declared as one of the major causes for AIDS-associated mortality. So there is a dire need for new drugs to combat such ailments that have a synergistic interaction.This has led us to study a novel antibiotic purified from a marine Streptomyces sp isolated from the coral reef ecosystem of South Indian coast. Streptomyces sp. R2 (MTCC 5597; DSM 26035)., isolated from the marine water was grown on agar plates and the crude yellowish orange pigment secreted was extracted using various solvents. The antibiotic, named as Transitmycin, was purified and tested against M. tuberculosis, drug resistant strains, and M. tuberculosis biofilm. The compound was also tested against HIV-1 viruses belonging to six subtypes. Several characterisation tools were used to elucidate the structure of this novel antibiotic. Transitmycin was derivitaised to elucidate the absolute configurations of the amino acids present in it. Tr, unlike actinomycin D, has L-valine in both the rings instead of D-valine (found in the latter). Also, one of the proline in Tr is in D–configuration while it is in L configuration in actinomycin D suggesting that ours is a novel compound and is not reported so far. It exhibits dual activities against the standard H37Rv, 49 drug sensitive clinical isolates, and MtB biofilm as well as standard and 20 clinical isolates of HIV. This is the first paper that reports the isolation of a new antibiotic from marine actinobacteria exhibiting unusual anti-TB and HIV activities which could be exploited further as a lead molecule in the quest for the design of drug with dual activities.

Highlights

A novel antibiotic was purified from a marine Streptomyces sp isolated from the coral reef of S. India

Presence of L-valine, not observed in actinomycin D, and one of the proline in D configuration suggest that it is a novel structure not reported before

It exhibits activity against standard MtB strain as well as clinical isolates and drug resistance ones

It exhibits anti-HIV activity against several clinical isolates
Reach and effectiveness of a HEARTS hypertension control pilot project in Guatemala
Authors: Wellmann Irmgardt Alicia , Rodríguez José Javier , Batzin Benilda , Hegel Guillermo , Ayala Luis Fernando , Ozano Kim , Fort Meredith P. , Flores Walter , Ramirez Lesly , Palacios Eduardo , Martínez Mayron , Ramirez-Zea Manuel , Flood David
Published: April 2024

The World Health Organization’s HEARTS Technical Package aims to improve the primary care management of hypertension and other cardiovascular risk disease factors at the population level. This study describes the first HEARTS implementation project in the Ministry of Health primary care system in Guatemala. This pilot project was implemented from April to December 2022 in 6 primary health facilities in 3 rural, Indigenous municipalities. The project consisted of HEARTS-aligned strategies that were adapted to foster program sustainability in Guatemala. Outcomes were defined using the RE-AIM framework. The primaryreachoutcome was treatment rate, defined as the absolute number of patients each month receiving medication treatment for hypertension. The primaryeffectivenessoutcomes were mean systolic blood pressure (BP), mean diastolic BP, and proportion with BP control. In the first month of the post-implementation period, there was a significant increase of 25 patients treated (P=0.002), followed by a significant increase thereafter of 2.4 additional patients treated each month (P=0.007). The mean change in systolic BP was -4.4 (95 CI -8.2 to -0.5, P=0.028) mmHg and mean change in diastolic BP was -0.9 (95 CI -2.8 to 1.1, P=0.376) mmHg. The proportion of the cohort with BP control increased from 33.4% at baseline to 47.1% at 6 months (adjusted change of 13.7% [95 CI 2.2% to 25.2%, P=0.027]). These findings support the feasibility of implementing the HEARTS model for blood pressure control in the Guatemalan MOH primary care system where the vast majority of hypertension patients seek care.
Equilibrium dialysis with HPLC detection to measure substrate binding affinity of a non-heme iron halogenase
Authors: Smithwick Elizabeth R. , Bhagi-Damodaran Ambika , Damodaran Anoop Rama
Published: April 2024

Determination of substrate binding affinity (Kd) is critical to understanding enzyme function. An extensive number of methods have been developed and employed to study ligand/substrate binding, but the best approach depends greatly on the substrate and the enzyme in question. Below we describe how to measure theKdof BesD, a non-heme iron halogenase, for its native substrate lysine using equilibrium dialysis with subsequent detection with High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). This method can be performed in anaerobic glove bag settings, requires readily available HPLC instrumentation for subsequent detection, and is adaptable to meet the needs of a variety of substrate affinity measurements.
Synaptic proteome diversity is primarily driven by gene regulation of glutamate receptors and their regulatory proteins
Authors: Reig-Viader Rita , del Castillo-Berges Diego , Burgas-Pau Albert , Arco-Alonso Daniel , Ramos-Vicente David , Sindreu Carlos , Bayés Àlex
Published: April 2024

Electrophysiological features of excitatory synapses vary widely throughout the brain, granting neuronal circuits the ability to decode and store diverse patterns of information. Synapses formed by the same neurons have similar electrophysiological characteristics, belonging to the same type. However, these are generally confined to microscopic brain regions, precluding their proteomic analysis. This has greatly limited our ability to investigate the molecular basis of synaptic physiology. Here we introduce a procedure to characterise the proteome of individual synaptic types. We reveal a remarkable proteomic diversity among the synaptic types of the trisynaptic circuit. Differentially expressed proteins participate in well-known synaptic processes, controlling the signalling pathways preferentially used among diverse synapses. Noteworthy, all synaptic types differentially express proteins directly involved in the function of glutamate receptors. Moreover, neuron-specific gene expression programs would participate in their regulation. Indeed, genes coding for these proteins exhibit such distinct expression profiles between neuronal types that they greatly contribute to their classification. Our data is an important resource for exploring the molecular mechanisms behind electrophysiological properties of different hippocampal synaptic types. Our combined analysis of proteomics and transcriptomics data uncovers a previously unrecognised neuron-specific transcriptomic control of synaptic proteome diversity, directed towards the regulation of glutamate receptors and their regulatory proteins.
Monoubiquitination of histone H2B is a crucial regulator of the transcriptome during memory formation
Authors: Navabpour Shaghayegh , Farrell Kayla , Kincaid Shannon E. , Omar Nour , Musaus Madeline , Lin Yu , Xie Hehuang , Jarome Timothy J.
Published: April 2024

Posttranslational modification of histone proteins is critical for memory formation. Recently, we showed that monoubiquitination of histone H2B at lysine 120 (H2Bub) is critical for memory formation in the hippocampus. However, the transcriptome controlled by H2Bub remains unknown. Here, we found that fear conditioning in male rats increased or decreased the expression of 86 genes in the hippocampus but, surprisingly, siRNA-mediated knockdown of the H2Bub ligase,Rnf20, abolished changes in all but one of these genes. These findings suggest that monoubiquitination of histone H2B is a crucial regulator of the transcriptome during memory formation.
Light new physics in
B→K(*)νν¯
?
Authors: Altmannshofer Wolfgang , Crivellin Andreas , Haigh Huw , Inguglia Gianluca , Camalich Jorge Martin
Published: April 2024

The study of the rare decays B→K(*)νν¯ offers a window into the dynamics operating at the electroweak scale, allowing studies of the Standard Model and searches for heavy new physics. However, the analysis of these decays is also potentially sensitive to the on shell production of new light bosons X through the process B→K(*)X. In particular, Belle II has recently measured B+→K+νν¯, finding a 2.8σ excess under the assumption of heavy new physics. Since this excess is rather localized in the kaon energy, a fit that includes the decay mode B+→K+X to the kinematic distributions prefers mX≈2  GeV with branching fraction Br[B→KX]=(8.8±2.5)×10−6 and a significance of ≈3.6σ. However, no excess was found in the measurements of B→K(*)νν¯, and a global analysis of the Belle II and data leads to Br[B→KX]=(5.1±2.1)×10−6 with a reduced significance of ≈2.4σ. We then study various simplified dark-flavored models and present a possible UV completion based on a gauged B3−L3 symmetry, highlighting the discovery potential of dedicated searches for B→K(*)X at Belle II.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Group dynamics in inquiry-based labs: Gender inequities and the efficacy of partner agreements
Authors: Dew Matthew , Hunt Emma , Perera Viranga , Perry Jonathan , Ponti Gregorio , Loveridge Andrew
Published: April 2024

[This paper is part of the Focused Collection on Instructional labs: Improving traditions and new directions.] Recent studies provide evidence that social constructivist pedagogical methods such as active learning, interactive engagement, and inquiry-based learning, while pedagogically more effective, can enable inequities in the classroom. By conducting a quantitative empirical examination of gender-inequitable group dynamics in two inquiry-based physics labs, we extend results of previous work. Using a survey on group work preferences and video recordings of lab sessions, we find similar patterns of gendered role taking noted in prior studies. These results are not reducible to differences in students’ preferences. We find that an intervention which employed partner agreement forms, with the goal of reducing inequities, had a positive impact on students’ engagement with equipment during a first-semester lab course. Our work will inform implementation of more effective interventions in the future and emphasizes challenges faced by instructors who are dedicated to both research-based pedagogical practices and efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in their classrooms.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Learnability Transitions in Monitored Quantum Dynamics via Eavesdropper’s Classical Shadows
Authors: Ippoliti Matteo , Khemani Vedika
Published: April 2024

Monitored quantum dynamics—unitary evolution interspersed with measurements—has recently emerged as a rich domain for phase structure in quantum many-body systems away from equilibrium. Here we study monitored dynamics from the point of view of an eavesdropper who has access to the classical measurement outcomes, but not to the quantum many-body system. We show that a measure of information flow from the quantum system to the classical measurement record—the —undergoes a phase transition in correspondence with the measurement-induced phase transition (MIPT). This transition determines the eavesdropper’s (in)ability to learn properties of an unknown initial quantum state of the system, given a complete classical description of the monitored dynamics and arbitrary classical computational resources. We make this learnability transition concrete by defining classical shadow protocols that the eavesdropper may apply to this problem, and show that the MIPT manifests as a transition in the sample complexity of various shadow-estimation tasks, which become harder in the low-measurement phase. We focus on three applications of interest: Pauli expectation values (where we find the MIPT appears as a point of optimal learnability for typical Pauli operators), many-body fidelity, and global charge in U(1)-symmetric dynamics. Our work unifies different manifestations of the MIPT under the umbrella of and gives this notion a general operational meaning via classical shadows.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The role of change readiness in the relationship between learning organisation and successful change implementation
Authors: Abdul-Nasiru Inusah
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Although change is a necessary part of organisational life, achieving a successful change is complex. Change readiness is a critical element in successful change implementation, yet studies assessing change readiness as an underlying mechanism in the link between organisational-level factors and successful change implementation are scarce, particularly in the African context. Accordingly, the present study examined the extent to which change readiness mediates the link between learning organisation and successful change implementation in the Ghanaian context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a standardized questionnaire to collect data from 364 participants, working in public and private universities in Ghana. The participants were selected via the convenience sampling strategy to complete the survey on the main variables at a single point in time. The study was purely quantitative, as path analysis – a form of structural equation modelling was employed to test the hypothesized relationships in the study.

Findings

The results show that both learning organisation and change readiness facilitated successful change implementation. Finally, it was observed that change readiness served as an important mediating mechanism in the link between learning organisation and successful change implementation.

Practical implications

Change readiness was found to explain the link between learning organisation and successful change implementation. Thus, it is important that managers and leaders of public and private sector educational institutions in Ghana invest resources into preparing and getting employees to accept, be committed to and ready for change.

Originality/value

The present study contributes to the scarce knowledge of the mediating role of change readiness in the link between learning organisation and successful change implementation in the African context.
The value of a ‘just’ firm
Authors: Desir Rosemond , Ryan Patricia A. , Albert Lumina
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study aims to investigate market reactions associated with the JUST 100 rankings published by JUST Capital, a non-profit organization, as well as differences in financial reporting quality and performance between selected firms and their industry peers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a sample of 431 firms selected as the 100 America’s Most Just Companies between 2016 and 2020 by JUST Capital. This study performs both an event study to determine whether the rankings are useful to investors and cross-sectional regression analyses on the characteristics of selected firms compared to their peers.

Findings

This study finds that investors react positively to selected firms around the time of the release of the JUST 100 rankings, suggesting that the rankings are decision-useful. This study also finds that selected firms exhibit higher accounting quality and financial performance than their peers.

Research limitations/implications

Rankings may not be free from bias because of JUST Capital’s ownership of an exchange-traded fund.

Social implications

The findings validate the rankings as well as the methodology used by JUST Capital, as they show market participants value firms that engage in socially responsible actions through their commitment to positively impact five key stakeholder groups: employees, customers, communities, environment and shareholders.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that shows the importance of the JUST 100 rankings for investment decisions. Considering the growing push for companies to disclose environmental, social and governance (ESG) activities, this study provides evidence to support ESG disclosure regulations.
Conjugated linoleic acid‐enriched yoghurts development through homogenization: Study of fatty acids, volatile compounds profiles and physicochemical, rheological and sensory properties
Authors: Vélez Maria Ayelén , Wolf Verónica , Zeiter Agustín , Caballero María Soledad , Spotti María Julia , Cuffia Facundo , Perotti María Cristina
Published: April 2024

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is recognised for its health benefits: anticancer, antiinflamatory and antiatherogenic effects have been reported. CLA enriched yoghurts were developed through homogenization at two levels (H1 and H2 with 40 and 80 mg CLA/100 g of yoghurt, respectively) with a view to creating functional foods. CLA modified the volatile profile in a positive way: higher levels of diacetyl and ethyl butanoate and lower values of 2‐hexanone and 2‐heptanone, ethanol and certain acids were recorded. Yoghurts presented similar microstructure, but H1 showed higher consistency and lower pseudoplastic behaviour; meanwhile H2 presented less syneresis. All products had high acceptability.
Natural resource‐driven prosperity: Unveiling the catalysts of sustainable economic development in the United States
Authors: Ge Xiukun , Imran Muhammad , Ali Kishwar
Published: April 2024

Achieving economic progress hinges upon the active and strategic utilization of a nation's inherent resources in economic and financial endeavors. This comprehensive study investigates the intricate dynamics influencing the economic development of the United States, employing a time series dataset spanning from 1991 to 2022. Key factors including total natural resource rents, domestic capital formation, the ‘financial risk index (FRI),’ and the count of patents filed by both domestic and foreign investors. Rigorous statistical analyses, including the ‘Modified Dickey‐Fuller’ test and ‘Bayer‐Hanck cointegration’ strategy, were employed to extract meaningful insights from the data. Addressing concerns related to endogeneity and serial correlation, advanced techniques such as ‘Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares’ and ‘Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares’ were applied. The findings illuminate the pivotal roles played by natural resource rents and domestic capital formation in propelling sustainable economic development in the United States. Notably, this study sheds light on the positive contributions of both domestic and foreign patent filings to the nation's economic trajectory. Furthermore, enhancements in the FRI are identified as catalysts for fostering sustainable economic growth. In essence, our research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering nuanced insights into the multifaceted influences shaping the economic landscape of the United States. The results not only underscore the significance of effective resource management and capital formation but also emphasize the positive impact of innovation, represented by patent filings, and improvements in the FRI on the nation's journey towards sustainable economic growth.
Hope, coping strategies, and their predictors in older patients with prostate and breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yildizel Sema , Arayici Mehmet Emin , Umay Cenk , Sahin Sevnaz
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the level of hope, coping methods, and the factors affecting them in patients aged 60 years and over who were diagnosed with breast and prostate cancer and who were receiving radiotherapy (RT) as part of their treatment.

Methods

A total of 66 patients (37 breast cancer and 29 prostate cancer patients) were included in this cross‐sectional study. The RT and treatment information of the patients were collected by using the records in the hospital database. The scale responses, baseline characteristics, and demographic information of the participants were collected through the questionnaire form and scales [HHI (Heart Hope Index), COPE (Coping Attitudes Assessment Scale), and VAS (Visual Analogue Scale)]. Two surveys were administered to the participants before and after radiotherapy treatment. A first survey was administered to the participants 10–15 days before radiotherapy treatment, and the second survey was administered within 2–3 weeks after radiotherapy treatment. The weight and waist circumference of the patients were also measured before and after radiotherapy.

Results

The median age of the participants was 65 (interquartile range (IQR): 62.0–70.2) years. There was a decrease in the weight (mean change (MC): −1.5, 95% CI: −2.9 to −0.2, P = 0.029) and waist circumference (MC: −1.8, 95% CI: −3.2 to −0.4, P = 0.014) of the participants after RT. There was no significant change in the HHI (MC: 0.4, 95% CI: −0.7 to 1.5) and COPE (MC: −0.6, 95% CI: −3.2 to 2.0) total scores of the patients before and after RT (P = 0.459 and P = 0.650, respectively). When only patients with prostate cancer were studied, the self‐help sub‐dimension of COPE (MC: −1.5, 95% CI: −2.7 to −0.3, P = 0.013) was found to be lower.

Conclusion

Multidimensional evaluations and interventions may be required in terms of hope levels and coping attitudes of cancer patients receiving radiotherapy. There is an increasing need for further studies in larger populations and cohorts related to this topic in the literature.
Assessing the effectiveness of palliative radiotherapy for painful bone metastases in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review
Authors: Kaganda Bomboka Von , Galietta Erika , Donati Costanza Maria , Cellini Francesco , Rossi Romina , Buwenge Milly , Wondemagegnehu Tigeneh , Deressa Biniyam Tefera , Uddin AFM Kamal , Sumon Mostafa A , Vadalà Maria , Maltoni Marco , Morganti Alessio Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

Palliative radiotherapy (RT) effectively relieves pain in patients with bone metastases (BMs). Furthermore, several clinical trials, in most cases conducted in high‐income countries (HICs), proved that single‐fraction RT is equally effective compared to multi‐fractionated RT. However, the evidence is scarce regarding low/middle‐income countries (LMICs), where the diagnosis of BMs could be later and RT techniques less advanced. Therefore, we conducted a systematic literature review to evaluate the efficacy of palliative RT of BMs in the LMIC setting. A literature search was performed independently by two authors on the PubMed, Cochrane and Scopus databases. Overall, 333 records were screened and after the selection process, 11 papers were included in the analysis. Complete pain response rates ranged from 11.5% to 37.1% (median: 22%) for single‐fraction RT and from 0% to 35.1% (median: 19%) for multi‐fractionated RT. Partial pain response rates ranged from 23.1% to 76.9% (median: 53.8%) for single fraction RT and from 23.8% to 84.6% (median: 65%) for multi‐fractionated RT. Four randomized trials compared single‐fraction RT with multiple‐fraction RT and none of them showed significant differences in terms of pain relief. Our analysis showed that pain response rates after palliative RT recorded in LMIC are like those reported in studies performed in HIC. Even in this setting, RT in single fraction shows comparable pain response rates to multifractional RT.
Regulation of nitrogen transformation and microbial community by inoculation during livestock manure composting
Authors: Cao Rui , Huang Yihao , Li Ruyu , Li Ke , Ren Zhuqing , Wu Jian
Published: April 2024

This study examined the effects of three Bacillus strains and one Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain on nitrogen transformation and microbial communities in pig and chicken manure compost. The findings revealed that the use of compound microbial inoculants increased the compost temperature, accelerated moisture reduction, enhanced cellulase activity, and stimulated the accumulation of NH4+‐N, NO3−‐N, and total nitrogen (TN), resulting in a 9% increase in TN content. The abundance of Firmicutes decreased by 3.95% at the maturation phase, while Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes increased by 1.64% and 1.85%, respectively. Inoculation led to an increase in amoA, nxrA and nifH gene copy numbers, while simultaneously reducing the abundance of nirK, nosZ and nirS genes. It also resulted in an increase in functional enzyme levels, specifically nif and amo, with a corresponding decrease in nor. Clostridium, Phascolarctobacterium, Eubacterium and Faecalibacterium from the class Clostridium, which have a significant correlation with nifH and nxrA genes, suggest their likely crucial role in nitrogen retention and fixation. Inoculation aided in the removal of pathogenic bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) like fluoroquinolones, nucleosides and nitroimidazole. This study provides effective theoretical support for the mechanism of nitrogen retention and fixation, and for improving the quality of compost.