bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Porous Mn2+ Magnet with a Pt−Cl Framework: Correlation between Water Vapor Adsorption/Desorption and Slow Magnetic Relaxation
Authors: Nakajima Hirotaka , Uchida Kaiji , Yoshida Takefumi , Horii Yoji , Sato Tetsu , Luming Zhang , Yamashita Satoshi , Nakazawa Yasuhiro , Agulto Verdad C. , Nakajima Makoto , Breedlove Brian K. , Yamashita Masahiro , Iguchi Hiroaki , Takaishi Shinya
Published: October 2022

We report the water adsorption/desorption behavior and dynamic magnetic properties of the Pt−Cl chain complex [{[Pt(en)2][PtCl2(en)2]}3][{(MnCl5)Cl3}2] ⋅ 12H2O (1). Upon heating 1 in a vacuum, we obtained the dehydrated form [{[Pt(en)2][PtCl2(en)2]}3][{(MnCl5)Cl3}2] (1DH). The framework structures of 1 and 1DH are identical, and both complexes underwent slow magnetic relaxation. However, the magnetic relaxation times for 1DH were shorter than those for 1, meaning that the dynamic magnetic properties were controlled upon water vapor adsorption/desorption. From detailed analyses of the dynamic magnetic behavior, a phonon‐bottleneck effect contributes to the magnetic relaxation processes. We discuss the mechanism for the changes in the magnetic relaxation processes upon dehydration in terms of the heat capacity and thermal conductivity.
ABO gene editing for the conversion of blood type A to universal type O in Rhnull donor‐derived human‐induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Petazzi Paolo , Miquel‐Serra Laia , Huertas Sergio , González Cecilia , Boto Neus , Muñiz‐Diaz Eduardo , Menéndez Pablo , Sevilla Ana , Nogués Núria
Published: October 2022

The limited availability of red cells with extremely rare blood group phenotypes is one of the global challenges in transfusion medicine that has prompted the search for alternative self‐renewable pluripotent cell sources for the in vitro generation of red cells with rare blood group types. One such phenotype is the Rhnull, which lacks all the Rh antigens on the red cell membrane and represents one of the rarest blood types in the world with only a few active blood donors available worldwide. Rhnull red cells are critical for the transfusion of immunized patients carrying the same phenotype, besides its utility in the diagnosis of Rh alloimmunization when a high‐prevalence Rh specificity is suspected in a patient or a pregnant woman. In both scenarios, the potential use of human‐induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)‐derived Rhnull red cells is also dependent on ABO compatibility. Here, we present a CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated ABO gene edition strategy for the conversion of blood type A to universal type O, which we have applied to an Rhnull donor‐derived hiPSC line, originally carrying blood group A. This work provides a paradigmatic example of an approach potentially applicable to other hiPSC lines derived from rare blood donors not carrying blood type O.
Guidelines for the antidiabetic assay for bioactive substances in cell model
Authors: Teng Hui , Zhang Chang , Ai Chao , Cao Hui , Xiao Jianbo , Chen Lei
Published: October 2022

Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia. Insulin resistance (IR) and insufficient insulin secretion are important pathophysiological basis and significant characteristics of diabetes. At present, animal is still the main model for investigation of Antidiabetic activity of bioactive substances, however, in vivo models always has the problems of long experimental cycle, complicated experiment, and high cost. Compared with the animal models, cell culture could avoid some impossible or difficult to eliminate under natural conditions, and observe the experimental results more simply, economically, quickly, and objectively. In this case, the establishment of in vitro diabetic cell model has gradually developed. Recently, cell models are more widely used in high‐throughput screening, metabolism analysis, molecular pharmacology investigation, pharmacodynamics evaluation of natural product, cell function, interaction between receptors and cytokines, and so on. These guidelines will point out and discuss to help researchers to choose cell model that are truly reliable and can be successfully applied for their intended investigation of antidiabetic activity.
Pharmacokinetics of niazirin from Moringa oleifera Lam in rats by UPLC‐MS/MS: Absolute bioavailability and dose proportionality
Authors: Wang Fang , Yang Gaohong , Zhou Yang , Song Haizhong , Xiong Ling , Wang Luanfeng , Shen Xinchun
Published: October 2022

Niazirin is a nitrile glycoside isolated from the pods and leaves of Moringa oleifera and possesses antidiabetic activity. However, its pharmacokinetic properties have not been well studied yet. The present study aims to establish a specific, rapid, and simple method for the determination of niazirin in rat plasma and apply it to evaluate its absolute bioavailability and dose proportionality. MS/MS detection was performed in multiple reaction monitoring modes with negative electrospray ionization. The precursor–product ion transitions were m/z 278.1 [M‐H]− → 130.8 for niazirin and m/z 316.9 [M‐H]− → 271.0 for IS. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision (RSD) was <11.53% and the accuracy (RE) ranged from 6.20% to 9.68%. The extraction recoveries ranged from 87.92% to 91.82%. Absolute bioavailability in rats was assessed by comparing pharmacokinetic results after the oral (5, 20, and 40 mg/kg) and intravenous (5 mg/kg) administration. The results indicated that the absolute bioavailability of niazirin in rats was 46.78%, 52.61%, and 48.28%, respectively, and the equations of AUC0−∞ and Cmax at the three doses were y = 177.39x + 99.716 (r2 = 0.9962), and y = 63.152x + 19.531 (r2 = 0.9961), respectively. The study provides a scientific basis for safety evaluation and new clinical research on niazirin.
Modeling Heterogeneity in UO2 Nanoparticles Using X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Bang Shinhyo , Russo Dominic R. , Knapp Ashley D. , Straub Mark D. , Smith Kurt F. , Booth Corwin H. , Minasian Stefan G. , Moreau Liane M.
Published: October 2022

EXAFS provides the capability to interrogate nanoparticle (NP) structure in atomistic detail without relying on long‐range crystallinity. There is a limitation in that EXAFS provides averaged structural information, making it difficult to separate a small amount of heterogeneous structure from bulk. In this work, models were developed to extract surface‐specific information from conventional EXAFS measurements collected on UO2 NPs of varying size. Specifically, the surface terminating species of UO2 NPs was determined from comparison of coordination numbers with geometric models while the origin of static disorder was interrogated from user‐defined simulations. Results show that the degree of oxygenation on the NP surface does not significantly deviate from bulk surface and that static disorder is highly enhanced in NP surface layers but cannot be attributed to surface relaxation effects alone. The approach described herein has the potential to be adapted to a range of inorganic NP systems to interrogate surface structure.
Computational Study of Very High Spin Actinyl Peroxide Matryoshka Nanoclusters
Authors: Greaves Nicholas , Kaltsoyannis Nikolas
Published: October 2022

Generalised gradient approximation and hybrid density functional theory is used to study the geometries, electronic structures and spin state energetics of a series of high symmetry multi‐layer “Matryoshka” actinyl peroxide manganese nanoclusters “E@Mn12@An20n+” (An=U, Np, Pu; E=S, Se, Te, n=2; E=Br, n=3; E=Xe, n=4). These systems are all highly open shell, with up to 100 unpaired electrons in the case of the highest spin state plutonyl complexes. Very strong linear correlations are found in all cases between the number of unpaired electrons and the energies of the complexes, with the highest spin states being much the most stable. We confirm a key conclusion from our previous work in this area (Chemistry, A European Journal 24 (2018) 347) i. e. that the highest spin states of the chalcogen‐centred systems are the ground states only when the chalcogen is present; removal of the central group 16 element causes lower spin states to become the most stable. The compositions of the molecular orbitals associated with the changing spin states are studied in detail, and the relative energies of the highest and next highest spin states of the E‐free uranyl and plutonyl clusters rationalized on the basis of the characters of the orbitals whose occupation changes between the different spin states.
Boosting the Donor Effect of Side‐On W(II) Alkyne Complex Based Diphosphines
Authors: Thiem Paula , Ludwig Stephan , Villinger Alexander , Seidel Wolfram W.
Published: October 2022

Redox‐active tungsten alkyne complex‐based phosphines of the type [Tp*W(CO)Br(η2‐C2(PR2)x] (x=1, 2; R=Ph, i‐Pr) and coordination experiments with the corresponding diphosphines are described. The pKB values of the terminal free phosphine groups were estimated indirectly by the 1JP/Se coupling constants in the associated P‐selenides. A ten orders of magnitude higher basicity for the bis(diisopropyl)phosphine derivatives compared to the diphenyl congener as well as a significant difference in basicity of the phosphine depending on its position at the alkyne was determined. The diphosphines were utilized for comparative coordination experiments with Ni(II) and Cu(I) as first row transition metals. The heterobimetallic complexes {[Tp*W(CO)Br(μ‐η2‐C,C′‐κ2‐P,P′‐C2(PR2)2]NiCl2} (R=Ph, i‐Pr) were synthesized and fully characterized, the large difference in basicity and donor strength being underlined by a different degree of stability. Furthermore, two Cu(I) complexes of the isopropyl diphosphine derivative are presented and discussed; one of both being a dinuclear phenanthroline Cu(I) complex and the other a tetranuclear complex exhibiting an angled Cu2Br+ core.
Calibration of Li‐Ion Cathode Materials for Discrete Element Method Simulations
Authors: Lischka Clemens , Nirschl Hermann
Published: October 2022

The flow behavior of cohesive NMC‐622 cathode active material is studied in a Schulze RST‐01 ring shear cell and a rotating drum. For both devices, experiments and simulations are done to characterize the dynamic behavior of the material and to calibrate all relevant parameters for a coarse‐grained simulation model based on the discrete element method (DEM). The experimental values are directly used to simulate both of the calibration devices to verify a robust simulation model. It is found that for a coarse‐graining factor of 200 the characteristic flow mechanics in the experiments and simulations are in overall good agreement. It is further investigated if the aging process of NMC‐622 active material has an influence of the macroscopic flow characteristics of the powder. For this, the material was stored in ambient atmosphere for 12 months and investigated afterward by means of ring shear cell measurements and scanning electron microscope imaging. It is found that the aging of NMC‐622 leads to changed values for friction coefficients, which can be explained by possible surface reactions of the material in ambient atmosphere. The calibrated DEM model is suitable to be used in further work to provide simulative insides into the production of Li‐Ion batteries.
Preparation and characterization of active Cirish fructans–fish gelatin film: Physicochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties
Authors: Jafari Morteza , Afkhami Rana , Sedaghat Nasser
Published: October 2022

This study was aimed to evaluate the film‐forming ability and characterization of ultrasonically extracted Cirish fructans (CF) and CF–cold‐water fish gelatin (G) composite films. The film‐forming solutions were prepared at different levels (CF100‐0G, CF75‐G25, CF50‐G50, CF25‐G75, and CF0‐G100) and the corresponding data were analyzed based on one‐way analysis of variance. The results indicated that CF addition led to an impressive increase in composite films thickness (69.38–86.45 μm), moisture content (16.05%–27.8%), surface hydrophobicity, tensile strength (5.73–17.89 MPa), elongation at break (0.83%–1.66%), Young's modulus (77.12–88.15 MPa), and Tg (38.83–47.4°C) which CF75‐G25 had the highest values. Meanwhile, the solubility (77.12%–88.15%), WVP (1.89–2.86 × 10−10gm−1 s−1 Pa−1), and oxygen permeability (1.53–3.26 × 1014 cm3 m−1 s−1 Pa−1) of the composite films decreased. The FTIR spectra indicated the protein–polysaccharide interactions and revealed that the secondary structure of gelatin was shifted from triple‐helix structure (1661 cm−1) toward α‐helix structure (1650–1657 cm−1) when CF was incorporated. The microstructure observations indicated that unlike gelatin film, CF film exhibited the smooth and uniform surface without cracks and phase separation. It was found that CF films had high total phenolic content (6.73 mg GEA g−1) and showed DPPH radical scavenging activity (67.86%). On the other hand, it showed inherent antimicrobial activity against both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. The results indicated that CF and CF‐cold fish gelatin have great potential as active films with improved physical, mechanical, and barrier properties.
A systematic review of process evaluations for psychosocial interventions designed to improve the wellbeing and quality of life of community‐dwelling people with dementia and their carers
Authors: Wyman Danielle Laura , Butler Laurie , Bright Peter , Morgan‐Trimmer Sarah , Budgett Jessica , Cooper Claudia
Published: October 2022

Background

Psychosocial interventions improve the wellbeing and quality of life of People Living with Dementia (PLWD) and their family carers; but due to their complexity it can be challenging to identify mechanisms of action. We reviewed process evaluations that have sought to elucidate how these interventions work, to inform their implementation.

Method

We systematically reviewed process evaluations of studies evaluating psychosocial interventions for PLWD in their own home and/or their family carers. We rated study quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. We described, with reference to Medical Research Council (2015) process evaluation guidance, how implementation, mechanisms of impact and contextual factors were investigated; and describe commonalities in the mechanisms of action identified across studies.

Results

Twenty four included studies evaluated the processes of 22 interventions. These studies collectively applied five frameworks; almost all frameworks' advised evaluations were theory‐based and used mixed‐methods analyses, but only 5/24 evaluation designs were informed by the intervention theory and 8/24 used mixed methods. 8/24 evaluations considered contextual factors in their design, though 20/24 cited contextual factors in findings. Interventions were more successful where PLWD were motivated and aware of potential benefits, and when carers could support engagement and were themselves supported by the intervention. How the intervention aligned with participants' current needs and stage of dementia were key influencing factors.

Conclusion

Knowing how interventions can influence change for community‐dwelling people with dementia and their family carer's will improve translation of trial findings into practice. Robust, theory‐driven process evaluations can enable this.
Factors associated with cardiovascular events after simultaneous liver–kidney transplant from the US Multicenter Simultaneous Liver–Kidney Transplant Consortium
Authors: Jo Jennifer , Crespo Gonzalo , Gregory Dyanna , Sinha Jasmine , Xie Jiaheng , Zhang Min , Magee John , Barman Pranab , Patel Yuval A. , Schluger Aaron , Walters Kara , Biggins Scott , Filipek Natalia , Cullaro Giuseppe , Wong Randi , Lai Jennifer C. , Perreault Gabriel J. , Verna Elizabeth C. , Sharma Pratima , VanWagner Lisa B.
Published: October 2022

Cardiovascular disease is a leading complication after both liver and kidney transplantation. Factors associated with and rates of cardiovascular events (CVEs) after simultaneous liver–kidney transplant (SLKT) are unknown. This was a retrospective cohort study of adult SLKT recipients between 2002 and 2017 at six centers in six United Network for Organ Sharing regions in the US Multicenter SLKT Consortium. The primary outcome was a CVE defined as hospitalization due to acute coronary syndrome, arrhythmia, congestive heart failure, or other CV causes (stroke or peripheral vascular disease) within 1 year of SLKT. Among 515 SLKT subjects (mean age ± SD, 55.4 ± 10.6 years; 35.5% women; 68.1% White), 8.7% had a CVE within 1 year of SLKT. The prevalence of a CVE increased from 3.3% in 2002–2008 to 8.9% in 2009–2011 to 14.0% in 2012–2017 (p = 0.0005). SLKT recipients with a CVE were older (59.9 vs. 54.9 years, p < 0.0001) and more likely to have coronary artery disease (CAD) (37.8% vs. 18.4%, p = 0.002) and atrial fibrillation (AF) (27.7% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.003) than those without a CVE. There was a trend toward older age by era of SLKT (p = 0.054). In multivariate analysis adjusted for cardiac risk factors at transplant, age (odds ratio [OR], 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02, 1.11), CAD (OR, 3.62; 95% CI, 1.60, 8.18), and AF (OR, 2.36; 95% CI, 1.14, 4.89) were associated with a 1‐year CVE after SLKT. Conclusion: Among SLKT recipients, we observed a 4‐fold increase in the prevalence of 1‐year CVEs over time. Increasing age, CAD, and AF were the main potential explanatory factors for this trend independent of other risk factors. These findings suggest that CV risk protocols may need to be tailored to this high‐risk population.
Chemical reaction impacts the unsteady MHD convective flow of an incompressible viscous fluid past an infinite vertical porous plate
Authors: Chandra Sekhar B. , Vijaya Kumar P.
Published: October 2022

We studied the radiation magnetohydrodynamic flow of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting fluid past an exponentially accelerated perpendicular surface under the influence of slip velocity in the revolving structure. A steady homogeneous magnetic strength is applied under the assumption of low magnetic Reynolds quantity. The ramped heat and time‐altering concentration near the plate are taken into consideration. First‐order consistent chemical reactions and thermal absorption were also studied. The Laplace transformation technique is used for the non‐dimensional governing equations to get the closed‐form solutions. Supporting these results, the phases for nondimensional shear stress, rate of thermal as well as accumulation transport are also found. Graphical profiles are represented to examine the impact of physical parameters on the important physical flow features. The computational quantities of shear stress and rate of thermal and mass transportation near the surface are tabulated with a variety of implanted parameters. The resulting velocity is growing with an increase in heat and solutal buoyancy forces, while revolution and slip parameters have reverse effects on this. The resulting velocity is falling due to an increase in the Hartmann quantity, while the penetrability parameters have the opposite impacts on this. The species concentration of fluid is reduced by an increase in Schmidt number and chemical reacting parameter.
KLF9 positively regulates TRIM33 to inhibit abnormal synovial fibroblast proliferation, migration as well as inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Huang Dan , Tao Liju , Du Xiuri
Published: October 2022

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause irreversible joint injury and serious disability. This study aimed to investigate how TRIM33 regulated by KLF9 affects the aggressive behaviors of synovial fibroblasts induced by tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α).

Materials and Methods

TNF‐α‐induced MH7A cells were used to simulate the in vitro model of RA. TRIM33 and KLF9 expression in TNF‐α‐challenged MH7A cells and transfection efficiency were analyzed via real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction together with western blot. The viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration of TNF‐α‐induced MH7A cells after transfection was respectively detected by CCK‐8, EdU staining, transwell, and wound‐healing assays. The expression of invasion and migration‐related proteins and inflammation‐related proteins was determined by western blot and the levels of inflammatory factors were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The combination between TRIM33 and KLF9 was substantiated through dual‐luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation.

Results

TRIM33 and KLF9 expression in TNF‐α‐challenged MH7A cells was downregulated. TRIM33 elevation inhibited TNF‐α‐elicited proliferation, metastasis as well as inflammation of MH7A cells. Moreover, KLF9 was combined with TRIM33 and KLF9 promoted transcription of TRIM33. The inhibitory effect of TRIM33 overexpression on proliferation, invasion and migration and inflammation of MH7A cells induced by TNF‐α was alleviated by the downregulation of KLF9.

Conclusion

KLF9 positively regulates TRIM33 to suppress the abnormal MH7A cell proliferation, migration, and reduce inflammation upon exposure to TNF‐α, which was reversed by inhibiting KLF9.
The protective effect of arbutin against potassium bromate‐induced oxidative damage in the rat brain
Authors: Akkoyun H. Turan , Uyar Ahmet , Bayramoglu Akkoyun Mahire , Bengü Aydın Şükrü , Melek Şule , Karagözoğlu Fatma , Aydın Sevinç , Ekin Suat , Erdem Sinem Aslan
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of arbutin (ARB) against brain injury induced in rats with potassium bromate (KBrO3). The rats were divided into four groups as Group 1: Control (0.9% NaCl ml/kg/day p.), Group 2: KBrO3(100 mg/kg (gavage), Group 3: ARB (50 mg/kg/day p.), and Group 4: KBrO3 + ARB (100 mg/kg (gavage) + 50 mg/kg/day p.). At the end of the fifth day of the study, the rats in all groups were killed, and their brain tissues were collected. In the collected brain tissues, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) levels were measured, and routine histopathological examinations were made. The MDA levels in the group that was exposed to KBrO3were significantly higher than those in the control group (p ˂ 0.001). In comparison to the KBrO3group, the MDA levels in the KBrO3 + ARB group were significantly lower (p ˂ 0.001). It was observed that SOD and CAT enzyme activity levels were significantly lower in the KBrO3group compared to the control group (p ˂ 0.001), while these levels were significantly higher in the KBrO3 + ARB group than in the KBrO3group (p ˂ 0.001). Additionally, the group that was subjected to KBrO3toxicity, as well as ARB administration, had much lower levels of histopathologic signs than the group that was subjected to KBrO3toxicity only. Consequently, it was found that KBrO3exposure led to injury in the brain tissues of the rats, and using ARB was effective in preventing this injury.
Taurine alleviates ochratoxin A‐induced pyroptosis in PK‐15 cells by inhibiting oxidative stress
Authors: Qu Jie , Liu Kai , Liu Shuiping , Yue Dongmei , Zhang Ping , Mao Xinru , He Wenmiao , Huang Kehe , Chen Xingxiang
Published: October 2022

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is one of the most harmful mycotoxins, which can cause multiple toxicological effects, especially nephrotoxicity in animals and humans. Taurine is an essential amino acid with various biological functions such as anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidation. However, the protective effect of taurine on OTA‐induced nephrotoxicity and pyroptosis had not been reported. Our results showed that OTA exposure induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress in PK‐15 cells, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, increased mRNA levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2), and decreased mRNA levels of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1), and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4). In addition, OTA treatment induced pyroptosis by increasing the expressions of pyroptosis‐related proteins NLRP3, GSDMD, Caspase‐1 P20, ASC, Pro‐caspase‐1, and IL‐1β. Meanwhile, taurine could alleviate OTA‐induced pyroptosis and cytotoxicity, as well as reduce ROS level, COX‐2, and iNOS mRNA levels, and increase the mRNA levels of the antioxidant enzyme in PK‐15 cells. Taken together, taurine alleviated OTA‐induced pyroptosis in PK‐15 cells by inhibiting ROS generation and altering the activity of antioxidant enzymes, thereby attenuating its nephrotoxicity.
Aggressive‐like behaviour and neurocognitive impairment in alcohol herbal mixture‐fed mice are associated with increased neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis in the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Ajayi Abayomi M. , Melete John , Ben‐Azu Benneth , Umukoro Solomon
Published: October 2022

Alcohol‐induced aggression and related violence is a serious and common social problem globally. Alcohol use is increasingly found in the form of alcoholic herbal mixtures (AHM) with indiscriminate and unregulated alcohol content. This study investigated the effects of AHM on aggressive‐like, neurocognitive impairment and brain biochemical alteration in mice. Thirty‐two male resident mice were paired housed with female mice for 21 days in four groups (n = 8). Resident mice were treated orally with normal saline, AHM, ethanol and AHM + ethanol daily for 14 days. Aggressive‐like behaviour was scored based on the latency and frequency of attacks by the resident mouse on the intruder. Neurocognitive impairment was determined using the Y‐maze test (YMT) and novel object recognition test (NORT). Acetylcholinesterase, glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), pro‐inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters were determined in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Neuronal morphology, cytochrome c (Cyt‐c) and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐ĸB) expressions were determined. AHM and in combination with ethanol showed an increased index of aggression typified by frequency of attack and reduced latency to attack when compared to normal saline‐treated animals. Co‐administration of AHM and ethanol significantly reduced cognitive correct alternation (%) and discrimination index in the YMT and NORT, respectively. AHM and ethanol increased acetylcholinesterase, Pro‐inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress parameters while they reduced GAD. There were significantly reduced neuronal counts and increased expression of Cyt‐c and NF‐ĸB, respectively Alcoholic herbal mixture increased aggressiveness and caused neurocognitive impairment via increased oxido‐inflammatory stress in the prefrontal cortex.
Comparative analysis of porcine iPSCs derived from Sertoli cells and fibroblasts
Authors: Yu Shuai , Zhu Zhenshuo , Shen Qiaoyan , Zhang Rui , Zhang Juqing , Wu Xiaolong , Zhao Wenxu , Wu Xiaojie , Yu Taiyong , Zhang Shiqiang , Li Na , Hua Jinlian
Published: October 2022

Porcine embryonic fibroblasts (PEFs) can be directly reprogrammed into porcine induced pluripotent stem cells (piPSCs). However, the reprogramming process is generally lengthy and inefficient. Here, we established a fast and efficient induction system of piPSCs from porcine Sertoli cells (SCs) via forced expression of pig Yamanaka factors. The alkaline phosphatase (AP)‐positive colonies from SCs developed on Day 3 after lentivirus infection, and were expanded and then picked up on Day 7, whereas reprogramming process from PEFs did not show any colonies in the same period. The picked piPSCs strongly expressed pluripotent genes, had the differentiation capacity to three germ layers, and could be also induced into primordial germ cell‐like cells. Screening for transcription factor combinations showed that POU class 5 homeobox 1 (OCT4) is the core factor for AP‐positive colony formation, and two factors (OCT4 and c‐MYC) could successfully reprogram SCs into piPSCs. We then compared the RNA‐sequencing data of piPSCs derived from SCs and PEFs, and found that the most significant difference was the activation of Transforming Growth Factor β signaling pathway. We also compared the RNA levels of SCs and PEFs, and found that SCs exhibited higher Wnt signaling activity and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 expression than PEFs, which might be correlated with higher cell proliferation rate and reprogramming efficiency. In summary, the data demonstrated that starting cell sources of piPSCs significantly affect reprogramming dynamics and SCs could serve as cell sources for efficient reprogramming.
Spatial Gradients of Quantitative MRI as Biomarkers for Early Detection of Osteoarthritis: Data From Human Explants and the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Wilson Robert L. , Emery Nancy C. , Pierce David M. , Neu Corey P.
Published: October 2022

Background

Healthy articular cartilage presents structural gradients defined by distinct zonal patterns through the thickness, which may be disrupted in the pathogenesis of several disorders. Analysis of textural patterns using quantitative MRI data may identify structural gradients of healthy or degenerating tissue that correlate with early osteoarthritis (OA).

Purpose

To quantify spatial gradients and patterns in MRI data, and to probe new candidate biomarkers for early severity of OA.

Study Type

Retrospective study.

Subjects

Fourteen volunteers receiving total knee replacement surgery (eight males/two females/four unknown, average age ± standard deviation: 68.1 ± 9.6 years) and 10 patients from the OA Initiative (OAI) with radiographic OA onset (two males/eight females, average age ± standard deviation: 57.7 ± 9.4 years; initial Kellgren‐Lawrence [KL] grade: 0; final KL grade: 3 over the 10‐year study).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0‐T and 14.1‐T, biomechanics‐based displacement‐encoded imaging, fast spin echo, multi‐slice multi‐echo T2 mapping.

Assessment

We studied structure and strain in cartilage explants from volunteers receiving total knee replacement, or structure in cartilage of OAI patients with progressive OA. We calculated spatial gradients of quantitative MRI measures (eg, T2) normal to the cartilage surface to enhance zonal variations. We compared gradient values against histologically OA severity, conventional relaxometry, and/or KL grades.

Statistical Tests

Multiparametric linear regression for evaluation of the relationship between residuals of the mixed effects models and histologically determined OA severity scoring, with a significance threshold at α = 0.05.

Results

Gradients of individual relaxometry and biomechanics measures significantly correlated with OA severity, outperforming conventional relaxometry and strain metrics. In human explants, analysis of spatial gradients provided the strongest relationship to OA severity (R2 = 0.627). Spatial gradients of T2 from OAI data identified variations in radiographic (KL Grade 2) OA severity in single subjects, while conventional T2 alone did not.

Data Conclusion

Spatial gradients of quantitative MRI data may improve the predictive power of noninvasive imaging for early‐stage degeneration.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Cytosolic DNA sensor activation inhibits HIV infection of macrophages
Authors: Zhang Biao , Liu Jin‐Biao , Zhou Lina , Wang Xu , Khan Shazheb , Hu Wen‐Hui , Ho Wen‐Zhe
Published: October 2022

Cytosolic recognition of microbial DNA in macrophages results in the activation of the interferon (IFN)‐dependent antiviral innate immunity. Here, we examined whether activating DNA sensors in peripheral blood monocyte‐derived macrophages (MDMs) can inhibit human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We observed that the stimulation of MDMs with poly(dA:dT) or poly(dG:dC) (synthetic ligands for the DNA sensors) inhibited HIV infection and replication. MDMs treated with poly(dA:dT) or poly(dG:dC) expressed higher levels of both type I and type III IFNs than untreated cells. Activation of the DNA sensors in MDMs also induced the expression of the multiple intracellular anti‐HIV factors, including IFN‐stimulated genes (ISGs: ISG15, ISG56, Viperin, OAS2, GBP5, MxB, and Tetherin) and the HIV restriction microRNAs (miR‐29c, miR‐138, miR‐146a, miR‐155, miR‐198, and miR‐223). In addition, the DNA sensor activation of MDM upregulated the expression of the CC chemokines (RANTES, MIP‐1α, MIP‐1β), the ligands for HIV entry coreceptor CCR5. These observations indicate that the cytosolic DNA sensors have a protective role in the macrophage intracellular immunity against HIV and that targeting the DNA sensors has therapeutic potential for immune activation‐based anti‐HIV treatment.
A survey of the implementation rate of cardiac rehabilitation for patients with heart disease undergoing device implantation in Japan
Authors: Kuhara Satoshi , Matsugaki Ryutaro , Imamura Hanaka , Itoh Hideaki , Oginosawa Yasushi , Araki Masaru , Fushimi Kiyohide , Matsuda Shinya , Saeki Satoru
Published: October 2022

Background

The effect of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on patients undergoing device implantation (DI) for arrhythmias has been reported; however, the implementation status of these patients has not been clarified. This study aimed to verify the implementation status of CR for patients with heart disease who have undergone DI using real‐world data.

Methods

This was an observational study using a nationwide administrative database associated with the diagnosis procedure combination (DPC) system in Japan (2014–2018). Subjects were patients with heart disease (70 667 cases) who underwent DI during the above scheduled hospitalization period. The overall rate of CR and the background factors of the subjects were verified.

Results

The CR rate for patients with heart disease who underwent DI during hospitalization was 23%, and the CR rate for patients with comorbid heart failure who underwent DI was only 32%. It was confirmed that progressing age was associated with a higher CR implementation rate. The lower the Barthel index score at the time of admission, the higher the CR implementation rate.

Conclusions

CR was performed for only one‐quarter of all the patients during admission for DI and just one‐third of the patients for DI with heart failure. Most of these patients were elderly and had a decreased ability to perform activities of daily living. The DPC data are subject to various limitations, and further research is necessary.
Ambulatory colectomy for cancer: Results from a prospective bicentric study of 177 patients
Authors: Seux Héloïse , Gignoux Benoît , Blanchet Marie‐Cécile , Frering Vincent , Fara Régis , Malbec Antoine , Darnis Benjamin , Camerlo Antoine
Published: October 2022

Background

The implementation of an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery programme after colectomy reduces postoperative morbidity and shortens the length of hospital stay.

Objective

To evaluate the short and midterm outcomes of ambulatory colectomy for cancer.

Methods

This was a two‐centre, observational study of a database maintained prospectively between 2013 and 2021. Short‐term outcome measures were complications, admissions, unplanned consultations and readmission rates. Midterm outcome measures were the delay between surgery and initiation of adjuvant chemotherapy, length of disease‐free survival and 2‐year disease‐free survival rate.

Results

A total of 177 patients were included. The overall morbidity rate was 15% and the mortality rate was 0%. The admission rate was 13% and 11% patients left hospital within 24 h of surgery. The readmission rate was 9% and all readmissions occurred before postoperative Day 4. Eight patients underwent repeat surgery because of anastomotic fistula (n = 7) or anastomotic ileocolic bleeding (n = 1). These patients had an uneventful recovery. Sixty‐one patients required adjuvant chemotherapy with a median delay between surgery and chemotherapy initiation of 35 days.

Conclusions

Ambulatory colectomy for cancer is feasible and safe. Adjuvant chemotherapy could be initiated before 6 weeks postsurgery. The ambulatory approach may be a step forward to further improve morbidity and oncologic prognosis.
Effect of Ambient Air Pollutants on the Medical Costs of Allergic Rhinitis in Seoul, Korea
Authors: Kim Jin Youp , Park Yujin , Kim Su Hwan , Kim Seong Pyo , Park Seok‐Won , Yoon Hyung‐Jin
Published: October 2022

Background

Ambient air pollutants are considered significant factors that influence allergic diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of ambient air pollution on the medical costs of allergic rhinitis (AR) through a time‐series analysis.

Methods

We used data from the Korean National Health Insurance Database from January 2016 to December 2019. The total cost for medical management and outpatient prescriptions for AR, estimated by the National Health Insurance Service for 25 districts, was summed as the total medical costs. The monthly concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, NO2, CO, O3, and SO2 were calculated, and time‐series analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of ambient air pollutants on the medical cost of AR using the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) model.

Results

Time‐series analysis revealed that the concentrations of PM10, NO2, and CO were significantly associated with an increased medical cost of AR when adjusting for monthly differences and seasonality (p = 0.048, p = 0.001, and p = 0.001 respectively). The increase in medical costs of AR was 6.22% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.0%–12.37%), 11.27% (95% CI: 6.03%–16.50%), and 11.05% (95% CI: 7.09%–15.01%) per one standard deviation increase in PM10, NO2, and CO respectively.

Conclusions

The monthly concentrations of PM10, NO2, and CO were significantly associated with the increased medical costs of AR when adjusting for monthly differences and seasonality. This analysis provides a better understanding of the health and economic effects of ambient air pollutants on AR.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 133:1828–1833, 2023
Relationship between cleft palate width and otitis media
Authors: Yoshitomi Ai , Baba Shintaro , Tamada Ikkei , Nakaya Muneo , Itokawa Masanari
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between cleft width and otitis media (OM) and to determine whether a wide cleft palate (CP) is a risk factor of the incidence, type, amount of middle ear effusion, and prolonged morbidity in OM.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Children with CP who underwent palatoplasty between 2014 and 2018 were analyzed. Cleft width was measured at palatoplasty. The incidence of otitis media with effusion (OME) and acute otitis media (AOM), the type and amount of middle ear effusion, and OME duration and age at resolution were assessed in relation to cleft width.

Results

One hundred eighteen children were included. The CP types were Veau I in 16, II in 35, III in 48, and IV in 19 patients. The incidence of OME and AOM before palatoplasty was 83.1% and 49.2%, respectively. Cleft width did not differ significantly between patients with or without OME but was significantly greater in those with, than in those without, AOM (p < .001), in those with mucoid, than in those with serous, effusion (p = .012), and in those with complete, than in those with partial, effusion (p = .01). Regardless of cleft width or type, OME persisted for a median duration of 50 months.

Conclusions

Cleft width was significantly associated with the incidence of AOM and the type and amount of middle ear effusion before palatoplasty. However, it was not significantly related to the incidence, age at resolution, or duration of OME. Regardless of cleft width or type, OM in children with CP requires long‐term follow‐up.

Level of Evidence: 2b.
Preparation of All Amorphous PMMA Resins Based on the Graft Architecture with a Flexible Main Chain for Simultaneous Enhancement of Thermal and Mechanical Toughness
Authors: Yamawake Kanta , Hayashi Mikihiro , Nobukawa Shogo
Published: October 2022

This study shows the design of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)‐based glassy polymers with simultaneous improvement of thermal resistance and mechanical toughness, based on the graft architecture with a low glass transition (Tg) flexible main chain. The microphase‐separated structure of the flexible main chain and the glassy graft chains in this design may be key to these improved properties. Notably, the graft copolymer depicts the ductile fracture, and the microscopy observation for the fractured sample exhibits the presence of abundant void formation with relatively homogenous size and interval throughout the sample. The void formation could originate from the preferential fracture of aggregated flexible components distributed throughout the sample, indicating the effective role of the flexible main chain on the suppression of the internal stress. The novelty of the present study is on the use of simple graft architecture for enhancing the toughness of glassy resins. This idea is indeed distinct from the conventional approach to improve toughness by adding plasticizer or rubber particles, therefore opening a new method for the creation of high‐functional glassy polymers.
Thermal Conductivity of PNIPAm Hydrogels and Heat Management as Smart Windows
Authors: Zhang Zechuan , Tan Shuai , Bao Zewei , Wu Yong , Wang Caihong
Published: October 2022

Though thermoresponsive lower critical solution temperature (LCST) hydrogels have attracted intense attention to be applied in smart windows, less efforts are paid on the LCST effect on the heat transfer process. Herein, the research mainly focuses on heat transfer process of thermoresponsive PNIPAm hydrogels. It is the first time reported that LCST behaviors can decrease thermal conductivity upon heating process. To be utilized as a smart window, thermal conduction flux is investigated yet the thermal conduction energy occupies little to manage the thermal transfer process in a model house. It is found that radiation thermal transfer predominates the heat transfer process for PNIPAm‐based smart windows. These results are meaningful to provide basic data for energy transfer in using thermoresponsive hydrogels.
Structural‐Functional Properties of Asymmetric Fluoro‐Alkoxy Substituted Benzothiadiazole Homopolymers with Flanked Chalcogen‐Based Heterocycles
Authors: Comí Marc , Moncho Salvador , Attar Salahuddin , Barłóg Maciej , Brothers Edward , Bazzi Hassan S. , Al‐Hashimi Mohammed
Published: October 2022

The synthesis and characterization of asymmetric alkoxy‐ are reported, fluoro‐benzothiadiazole (BT) acceptor core derivatized with a series of six different heterocycles (selenophene, thiophene, furan, 5‐thiazole, 2‐thiazole and 2‐oxazole). The effect of the flanked‐heterocycles containing different chalcogen atoms of the six homopolymers (HPX) is studied using optical, thermal, electrochemical, and computational analysis. Computational calculations indicate a strong relationship between the most stable conformation for each homopolymer and their bearing heterocycle, thus homopolymers HPSe’, HPTp’, HPFu’, and HPTzC5, adopted the syn‐syn and syn‐anti conformations due to their noncovalent interactions with shorter distances, while HPTzC2’ and HPOx’ demonstrate preference for the anti‐anti conformation. Optical property studies of the homopolymers reveal a strong red‐shift in solution and film upon exchanging the chalcogen atom from Oxygen < Sulfur < Selenium in HPFu, HPTp, and HPSe, respectively. In addition, deeper highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy levels are observed when the donor‐acceptor moieties (HPSe, HPTp, and HPFu) are substituted for the acceptor‐acceptor systems such as HPTzC5, HPTzC2, and HPOx. Improved packing and morphology are exhibited for the donor‐acceptor homopolymers. Thus, having a flanked heterocycle containing different chalcogen‐atoms in polymeric systems is one way of tuning the physicochemical properties of conjugated materials for optoelectronic applications
Brucella ceti and Brucella pinnipedialis genome characterization unveils genetic features that highlight their zoonotic potential
Authors: Orsini Massimiliano , Ianni Andrea , Zinzula Luca
Published: October 2022

The Gram‐negative bacteria Brucella ceti and Brucella pinnipedialis circulate in marine environments primarily infecting marine mammals, where they cause an often‐fatal disease named brucellosis. The increase of brucellosis among several species of cetaceans and pinnipeds, together with the report of sporadic human infections, raises concerns about the zoonotic potential of these pathogens on a large scale and may pose a threat to coastal communities worldwide. Therefore, the characterization of the B. ceti and B. pinnipedialis genetic features is a priority to better understand the pathological factors that may impact global health. Moreover, an in‐depth functional analysis of the B. ceti and B. pinnipedialis genome in the context of virulence and pathogenesis was not undertaken so far. Within this picture, here we present the comparative whole‐genome characterization of all B. ceti and B. pinnipedialis genomes available in public resources, uncovering a collection of genetic tools possessed by these aquatic bacterial species compared to their zoonotic terrestrial relatives. We show that B. ceti and B. pinnipedialis genomes display a wide host‐range infection capability and a polyphyletic phylogeny within the genus, showing a genomic structure that fits the canonical definition of closeness. Functional genome annotation led to identifying genes related to several pathways involved in mechanisms of infection, others conferring pan‐susceptibility to antimicrobials and a set of virulence genes that highlight the similarity of B. ceti and B. pinnipedialis genotypes to those of Brucella spp. displaying human‐infecting phenotypes.
Electrically large aperture horn array antenna with low side lobe level for Ku‐band frequency
Authors: Ördek Sezgin , Kizilay Ahmet
Published: October 2022

Using electrically large antennas for array applications may cause grating lobes and this can change the array pattern. To achieve a low side lobe level for boresight pattern for linear or planar array antennas, in the literature it is seen that the common method is the use of feeding each antenna with some amplitude distribution and keeping the distance between the antennas less than a wavelength. However, in this study the distance between the antennas is chosen to be greater than a wavelength. Therefore, the common methods cannot be used. To achieve a low side lob level in the radiation pattern for an array of antennas composed of antennas with a distance greater than one wavelength. The aperture length of each antenna is chosen to be variable and an analytical solution method is used to calculate the amplitude of each aperture field of the horn antennas. Thus, the determination of unit horns' optimal aperture lengths Li can be considered a multivariable optimization problem. This challenging problem was achieved using a novel meta‐heuristic optimization algorithm called the differential evolutionary algorithm (DEA), where the aperture lengths of each array element are taken as inputs to find the optimal side lobe level (SLL). Based on the obtained solutions, a 4 × 1 horn array antenna design alongside its feed network was designed for Ku‐band applications. The design of the array is simulated in CST simulation software, and the obtained simulated results had been compared with experimental results and counterpart designs in the literature.