bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Handelin alleviates cachexia‐ and aging‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy by improving protein homeostasis and inhibiting inflammation
Authors: Zhang Hui‐Jie , Wang Ben‐Hui , Wang Xiang , Huang Chun‐Ping , Xu Si‐Man , Wang Jia‐Li , Huang Tian‐E , Xiao Wan‐Li , Tian Xiao‐Li , Lan Xin‐Qiang , Wang Qi‐Quan , Xiang Yang
Published: November 2023

Background

Handelin is a bioactive compound from Chrysanthemum indicum L. that improves motor function and muscle integrity during aging in Caenorhabditis elegans. This study aimed to further evaluate the protective effects and molecular mechanisms of handelin in a mouse muscle atrophy model induced by cachexia and aging.

Methods

A tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α‐induced atrophy model was used to examine handelin activity in cultured C2C12 myotubes in vitro. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐treated 8‐week‐old model mice and 23‐month‐old (aged) mice were used to examine the therapeutic effects of handelin on cachexia‐ and aging‐induced muscle atrophy, respectively, in vivo. Protein and mRNA expressions were analysed by Western blotting, ELISA and quantitative PCR, respectively. Skeletal muscle mass was measured by histological analysis.

Results

Handelin treatment resulted in an upregulation of protein levels of early (MyoD and myogenin) and late (myosin heavy chain, MyHC) differentiation markers in C2C12 myotubes (P < 0.05), and enhanced mitochondrial respiratory (P < 0.05). In TNF‐α‐induced myotube atrophy model, handelin maintained MyHC protein levels, increased insulin‐like growth factor (Igf1) mRNA expression and phosphorylated protein kinase B protein levels (P < 0.05). Handelin also reduced atrogin‐1 expression, inhibited nuclear factor‐κB activation and reduced mRNA levels of interleukin (Il)6, Il1b and chemokine ligand 1 (Cxcl1) (P < 0.05). In LPS‐treated mice, handelin increased body weight (P < 0.05), the weight (P < 0.01) and cross‐sectional area (CSA) of the soleus muscle (P < 0.0001) and improved motor function (P < 0.05). In aged mice, handelin slightly increased the weight of the tibialis anterior muscle (P = 0.06) and CSA of the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscles (P < 0.0001). In the tibialis anterior muscle of aged mice, handelin upregulated mRNA levels of Igf1 (P < 0.01), anti‐inflammatory cytokine Il10 (P < 0.01), mitochondrial biogenesis genes (P < 0.05) and antioxidant‐related enzymes (P < 0.05) and strengthened Sod and Cat enzyme activity (P < 0.05). Handelin also reduced lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation, downregulated mRNA levels of Fbxo32, Mstn, Cxcl1, Il1b and Tnf (P < 0.05), and decreased IL‐1β levels in serum (P < 0.05). Knockdown of Hsp70 or using an Hsp70 inhibitor abolished the ameliorating effects of handelin on myotube atrophy.

Conclusions

Handelin ameliorated cachexia‐ and aging‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy in vitro and in vivo, by maintaining homeostasis of protein synthesis and degradation, possibly by inhibiting inflammation. Handelin is a potentially promising drug candidate for the treatment of muscle wasting.
Proteome and immune responses of extracellular vesicles derived from macrophages infected with the periodontal pathogen Tannerella forsythia
Authors: Lim Younggap , Kim Hyun Young , Han Dohyun , Choi Bong‐Kyu
Published: November 2023

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by periodontal pathogens in subgingival plaque and is associated with systemic inflammatory diseases. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from host cells and pathogens carry a variety of biological molecules and are of interest for their role in disease progression and as diagnostic markers. In the present study, we analysed the proteome and inflammatory response of EVs derived from macrophages infected with Tannerella forsythia, a periodontal pathogen. The EVs isolated from the cell conditioned medium of T. forsythia‐infected macrophages were divided into two distinct vesicles, macrophage‐derived EVs and T. forsythia‐derived OMVs, by size exclusion chromatography combined with density gradient ultracentrifugation. Proteome analysis showed that in T. forsythia infection, macrophage‐derived EVs were enriched with pro‐inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators associated with periodontitis progression. T. forsythia‐derived OMVs harboured several known virulence factors, including BspA, sialidase, GroEL and various bacterial lipoproteins. T. forsythia‐derived OMVs induced pro‐inflammatory responses via TLR2 activation. In addition, we demonstrated that T. forsythia actively released OMVs when T. forsythia encountered macrophage‐derived soluble molecules. Taken together, our results provide insight into the characterisation of EVs derived from cells infected with a periodontal pathogen.
Massive open online courses (MOOCs) in genomic variant interpretation: An innovative education strategy for the growing genetic counselor workforce
Authors: Coad Beth , Joekes Katherine , Rudnicka Alicja , Frost Amy , Tatton‐Brown Katrina , Snape Katie
Published: November 2023

The growth in genomic testing in healthcare requires a highly trained specialist workforce to ensure evidence based clinical germline variant interpretation. Genetic counselors form a core part of the clinical genomics multidisciplinary team (MDT) and represent a growing workforce participating in variant interpretation from data analysis to the patient consultation. Standardized, high‐quality variant interpretation training for Genetic Counselors has historically been ad hoc and variable, with existing programs lacking capacity to reach the entire workforce. To address the requirement for scalable variant interpretation training for genomics healthcare professionals (HCPs), two Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) were developed. We analyzed the data from 17 Genetic counselors, as part of an evaluation cohort completing the first run of these MOOCs. Overall genetic counselors enjoyed the courses, felt they were clinically relevant and would recommend them to colleagues. Common challenges amongst the genetic counseling workforces included utilizing relevant databases and finding time in the workday to complete training. These findings suggest MOOCs could be an acceptable option to ensure a consistent and transferrable high standard of training, complimentary to existing curricula. They also hold the potential to facilitate large‐scale education to update the genetic counseling workforce when changes in variant interpretation guidance occur.
Discussions of personal identity in genetic counseling supervision
Authors: Peplow Katherine , He Hua , Rivers Bryana , Wusik Katie , Yager Geoffrey , Atzinger Carrie
Published: November 2023

Fieldwork supervision is integral to genetic counseling students' training and has the potential to impact how included students feel in the genetic counseling field. For example, in related counseling fields, when supervisees and supervisors discuss their personal similarities or differences in ethnicity, supervisees report a stronger supervisory working alliance (SWA) (Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, 2001, 29, 102–113). However, the application of these studies on identity discussions to the genetic counseling field is currently unknown. The objective of this cross‐sectional questionnaire‐based study was to investigate (a) if genetic counseling students report having discussions of personal identity during fieldwork supervision, (b) who initiated any such discussions, (c) if there was a difference in the supervisory relationship between those who did and did not have discussions of personal identity, and (d) how students perceived the inclusivity of the genetic counseling profession and their genetic counseling programs. Discussions of personal identity were defined in this study as “discussions happening during supervision regarding how one or more aspects of personal identity impacts the provision of genetic counseling services and/or professional interactions” where personal identity included the student or supervisor's gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, disability status or other aspect of identity. Almost 40% of the participants (N = 190) reported discussing personal identity with their supervisor. For students identifying as white, discussions of personal identity were related to a stronger SWA (p = 0.014). However, for those with minoritized identities there was no relationship between the SWA and discussions of personal identity. Therefore, it is unclear from the current research whether discussions of personal identity can be an effective tool in improving inclusivity in the field of genetic counseling. Additional research is needed to explore the direct impact of identity discussions on the supervisory working alliance in genetic counseling supervision.
Arylhydrazine salt‐selenium: A novel and efficient reagent system for arylselenenylation of unprotected uracil and its derivatives
Authors: Wu Yi , Peng Qi‐Yun , He Yan‐Ling , Zheng Xiao‐He , Chen Yan‐Qin , Wang Hai‐Bo , Wang Bing , Xie Jun , Tang Lei , Wang Cong
Published: November 2023

A convenient and efficient reagent system of arylhydrazine salt‐selenium was developed to directly selenizing uracil preparation of 5‐selenium uracil. In the presence of this reagent, a variety of uracil/pyrimidine converts to their corresponding 5‐arylselanyluracils/5‐selenopyrimidine with good yield and high regioselectivity. Elemental selenium of commercially accessible, stable, affordable, and easy to use was used as the selenization reagent. This reaction is attractive and practical since there are no catalysts or ligands needed, and a wide range of functional groups can be tolerated.
Severe neuromuscular forms of glycogen storage disease type IV: Histological, clinical, biochemical, and molecular findings in a large French case series
Authors: Lefèvre Charles R. , Collardeau‐Frachon Sophie , Streichenberger Nathalie , Berenguer‐Martin Sophie , Clémenson Alix , Massardier Jérôme , Prieur Fabienne , Laurichesse Hélène , Laffargue Fanny , Acquaviva‐Bourdain Cécile , Froissart Roseline , Pettazzoni Magali
Published: November 2023

Glycogen storage disease type IV (GSD IV), also called Andersen disease, or amylopectinosis, is a highly heterogeneous autosomal recessive disorder caused by a glycogen branching enzyme (GBE, 1,4‐alpha‐glucan branching enzyme) deficiency secondary to pathogenic variants on GBE1 gene. The incidence is evaluated to 1:600 000 to 1:800 000 of live births. GBE deficiency leads to an excessive deposition of structurally abnormal, amylopectin‐like glycogen in affected tissues (liver, skeletal muscle, heart, nervous system, etc.). Diagnosis is often guided by histological findings and confirmed by GBE activity deficiency and molecular studies. Severe neuromuscular forms of GSD IV are very rare and of disastrous prognosis. Identification and characterization of these forms are important for genetic counseling for further pregnancies. Here we describe clinical, histological, enzymatic, and molecular findings of 10 cases from 8 families, the largest case series reported so far, of severe neuromuscular forms of GSD IV along with a literature review. Main antenatal features are: fetal akinesia deformation sequence or arthrogryposis/joint contractures often associated with muscle atrophy, decreased fetal movement, cystic hygroma, and/or hydrops fetalis. If pregnancy is carried to term, the main clinical features observed at birth are severe hypotonia and/or muscle atrophy, with the need for mechanical ventilation, cardiomyopathy, retrognathism, and arthrogryposis. All our patients were stillborn or died within 1 month of life. In addition, we identified five novel GBE1 variants.
Intercultural Mentoring in Higher Education
Authors: Adebayo Bolanle , Sunderman Hannah M.
Published: November 2023

Intercultural mentoring is increasing in higher education in response to diversification and globalization. While intercultural mentoring relationships experience unique challenges, it can be a development learning opportunity for both mentors and mentees. Therefore, the current article discusses the following aspects of intercultural mentoring relationships in higher education: benefits and challenges, recommendations for effective practice, the role of mentors and mentees in ensuring a successful relationship, and future research frontiers. Mentors and mentees in intercultural mentoring relationships, as well as formal mentoring programs with intercultural mentoring dyads, will benefit from the recommendations offered in the current article.
Blockage of the fractalkine pathway reduces hyperalgesia and prevents morphological glial alterations—Comparison between inflammatory and neuropathic orofacial pain in male rats
Authors: Lisboa Mario Roberto Pontes , Pereira Anamaria Falcão , Alves Bruno Wesley de Freitas , Dias Diego Bernarde Souza , Alves Luiza Clertiani Vieira , da Silva Cristiane Maria Pereira , Lima‐Júnior Roberto César Pereira , Gondim Delane Viana , Vale Mariana Lima
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of inhibitors of the fractalkine pathway in hyperalgesia in inflammatory and neuropathic orofacial pain in male rats and the morphological changes in microglia and satellite glial cells (SGCs). Rats were submitted to zymosan‐induced arthritis of the temporomandibular joint or infraorbital nerve constriction, and treated intrathecally with a P2X7 antagonist, a cathepsin S inhibitor or a p‐38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor. Mechanical hyperalgesia was evaluated 4 and 6 h following arthritis induction or 7 and 14 days following nerve ligation. The expression of the receptor CX3CR1, phospho‐p‐38 MAPK, ionized calcium‐binding adapter molecule‐1 (Iba‐1), and glutamine synthetase and the morphological changes in microglia and SGCs were evaluated by confocal microscopy. In both inflammatory and neuropathic models, untreated animals presented a higher expression of CX3CR1 and developed hyperalgesia and up‐regulation of phospho‐p‐38 MAPK, which was prevented by all drugs (p < .05). The number of microglial processes endpoints and the total branch length were lower in the untreated animals, but the overall immunolabeling of Iba‐1 was altered only in neuropathic rats (p < .05). The mean area of SGCs per neuron was significantly altered only in the inflammatory model (p < .05). All morphological alterations were reverted by modulating the fractalkine pathway (p < .05). In conclusion, the blockage of the fractalkine pathway seemed to be a possible therapeutic strategy for inflammatory and neuropathic orofacial pain, reducing mechanical hyperalgesia by impairing the phosphorylation of p‐38 MAPK and reverting morphological alterations in microglia and SGCs.
Chlamydospore dormancy and predatory activity of nematophagous fungus Duddingtonia flagrans
Authors: Wang Bo‐bo , Li You‐lei , Tian Shu‐yue , Wang Hai‐zhou , Li Xin , Wang Feng‐hui , Cai Kui‐zheng
Published: November 2023

The chlamydospores of Duddingtonia flagrans are an essential survival and reproductive structure and also an effective ingredient for the biocontrol of parasitic nematodes in livestock. In this study, entering and exiting dormancy conditions and predatory activity of the fungal chlamydospores were conducted. During this fungal growth process, the cultivation time is negatively correlated with spore germination rates. After the spores were processed by vacuum drying for 168 h, their germination rate dropped to 0.94%. In contrast, the percentage of living spores remained 54.82%, suggesting that the spores entered structural dormancy in the arid environment. Meanwhile, the efficacies of the spore against Haemonchus contortus larvae were 93.05% (0 h), 92.19% (16 h), 92.77% (96 h), and 86.45% (168 h), respectively. After dormant spores were stored at 4°C, −20°C, and 28°C (RH90 ~ 95%) for 7 days, their germination rate began to increase significantly (p < 0.05). For in vitro predation assay under the condition of 28°C (RH90 ~ 95%), the predation rate was significantly higher on the 7th day after incubation than that on the 3rd day (p < 0.05). During the period when spores were stored at room temperature for 8 months, their germination rate decreased in the first 5 months and then increased slowly to reach a peak in the 7th month. However, the reduction rate of H. contortus L3 in feces captured by spores remained above 71% for the first 7 months. These results will help us increase the end products yield and the quality of biological control of parasitic nematodes in livestock.
Adsorption behavior of surfactants on sandstone reservoir rocks with carbonate cements and its influence on wettability alteration
Authors: Phukan Ranjan , Saha Rahul , Mazumdar Pritam
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the adsorption behaviors of surfactants in sandstone reservoir rocks containing various amounts of carbonate cement/minerals and their impact on wettability alteration under low‐salinity conditions. Two types of rock samples from sandstone reservoirs of Assam oilfields in India are selected based on XRD results. These rock types are (i) high carbonate cement (HCC) core sample with higher carbonate cement (calcite 5.6% and dolomite 4.0%), and (ii) low carbonate cement (LCC) core sample with lower carbonate cement (calcite = 0.5% and dolomite 0%). The study reveals that the mineralogy of sandstone reservoir rocks especially the carbonate minerals affects the brine‐rock interactions including wettability alternation and surfactant adsorption. Notable differences (2° to 8°) in contact angles for the two rock types at different salinities revealed that carbonate cement in sandstone thus impacts brine‐rock interactions. Further, low salinity surfactant (LSS) could positively alter the wettability of both rock types to water‐wet conditions (contact angle <60°). The most favorable wettability alterations (up to 30°) were achieved with cationic LSS solutions for both core types. Using LSS solutions also reduced the adsorption of anionic surfactant by around 40% and 33% for HCC and LCC rock samples, respectively. The study's novelty emanates from investigating the impact of sandstone reservoir rock mineralogy with varying amounts of carbonate cements on the adsorption behavior of surfactants under low‐salinity conditions. Moreover, this study provides a better understanding of the interrelationship existing between the degree of wettability alteration and the amount of surfactant adsorbed by sandstone rocks.
Discovery and characterization of a novel carbohydrate‐binding module: a favorable tool for investigating agarose
Authors: Mei Xuanwei , Zhang Yuying , Jiang Xiaoxiao , Liu Guanchen , Shen Jingjing , Xue Changhu , Xiao Hang , Chang Yaoguang
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Agarose, mainly composed of 3,6‐anhydro‐α‐l‐galactopyranose (LA) and β‐d‐galactopyranose (G) units, is an important polysaccharide with wide applications in food, biomedical and bioengineering industries. Carbohydrate‐binding modules (CBMs) are favorable tools for the investigations of polysaccharides. Few agarose‐binding CBMs have been hitherto reported, and their binding specificity is unclear.

RESULTS

An unknown domain with a predicted β‐sandwich fold was discovered from a β‐agarase of the marine bacterium Wenyingzhuangia fucanilytica CZ1127T. The expressed protein WfCBM101 could bind to agarose and exhibited relatively weak affinity for porphyran, with no affinity for the other seven examined polysaccharides. The protein binds to the tetrasaccharide (LA‐G)2, but not to the major tetrasaccharide contained in porphyran. The sequence novelty and well‐defined binding function of WfCBM101 shed light on a novel CBM family (CBM101). Furthermore, the feasibility of WfCBM101 for visualizing agarose in situ was confirmed.

CONCLUSION

A novel CBM, WfCBM101, with a desired specificity for agarose was discovered and characterized, which represents a new CBM family. The CBM could be utilized as a promising tool for studies of agarose. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Emerging innovations and advancements in the treatment of extremity and truncal soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Walker Kyle , Simister Samuel K. , Carr‐Ascher Janai , Monument Michael J. , Thorpe Steven W. , Randall R. Lor
Published: November 2023

In this special edition update on soft tissue sarcomas (STS), we cover classifications, emerging technologies, prognostic tools, radiation schemas, and treatment disparities in extremity and truncal STS. We discuss the importance of enhancing local control and reducing complications, including the role of innovative imaging, surgical guidance, and hypofractionated radiation. We review advancements in systemic and immunotherapeutic treatments and introduce disparities seen in this vulnerable population that must be considered to improve overall patient care.
A missense GDF5 variant causes brachydactyly type A1 and multiple‐synostoses syndrome 2
Authors: Li Juyi , Liang Xiaofang , Wang Xiufang , Yang Pei , Jian Xiaofei , Fu Lei , Deng Aiping , Liu Chao , Liu Jianxin
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aimed to identify the molecular defects and clinical manifestations in a Chinese family with brachydactyly (BD) type A1 (BDA1) and multiple‐synostoses syndrome 2 (SYNS2).

Methods

A Chinese family with BDA1 and SYNS2 was enrolled in this study. Whole‐exome sequencing was used to analyze the gene variants in the proband. The sequences of the candidate pathogenic variant in GDF5 was validated via Sanger sequencing. I‐TASSER and PyMOL were used to analyze the functional domains of the corresponding mutant proteins.

Results

The family was found to have an autosomal‐dominantly inherited combination of BDA1 and SYNS2 caused by the S475N variant in the GDF5 gene. The variant was located within the functional region, and the mutated residue was found to be highly conserved among species. Via bioinformatic analyses, we predicted this variant to be deleterious, which perturb the protein function. The substitution of the negatively charged amino acid S475 with the neutral N475 was predicted to disrupt the formation of salt bridges with Y487 and impair the structure, stability, and function of the protein, consequently, the abnormalities in cartilage and bone development ensue.

Conclusions

A single genetic variant (S475N) which disrupt the formation of salt bridges with Y487, in the interface of the antagonist‐ and receptor‐binding sites of GDF5 concurrently causes two pathological mechanisms. This is the first report of this variant, identified in a Chinese family with BDA1 and SYNS2.
Chiral analysis and semi‐preparative separation of metconazole stereoisomers by supercritical fluid chromatography and cytotoxicity assessment in vitro
Authors: Xu Xiang‐Bing
Published: November 2023

Metconazole is one of the widely‐used chiral triazole fungicides in controlling wheat leaf rust, powdery mildew, Fusarium head blight with high efficacy, and so forth. In the current work, the effects of chiral stationary phases, alcoholic modifiers, and column temperature on the chiral separation of metconazole were discussed in detail. Amylose tris(3,5‐dimethylphenylcarbamate)‐coated chiral stationary phase exhibited much stronger chiral recognition ability toward metconazole stereoisomers in the CO2/ethanol mixture as compared to the others. Then, a two‐step semi‐preparative separation of metconazole was performed through supercritical fluid chromatography and high‐performance liquid chromatography, and the enantiomeric excess values of four stereoisomers were achieved over 98%. Moreover, the enantioselective cytotoxicity of cis‐metconazole against HepG2 cells has been investigated, and the order of the cell proliferation toxicity against HepG2 cells was (1R, 5S)‐metconazole > (1S, 5R)‐metconazole > the mixture. Briefly, this study would provide valuable information in the preparative separation of optically pure metconazole products through chromatographic techniques and their environmental risk assessment.
Hepatitis C virus micro‐elimination in people who inject drugs: Challenges and chance in Taiwan and worldwide
Authors: Tai Chi‐Ming , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: November 2023

With the introduction of direct‐acting antivirals, elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is becoming possible. People who inject drugs (PWID) represent a population with a high risk for HCV infection, which has been reported as high as 90% in Taiwanese PWID. To reach the goal of HCV elimination, PWID is a key population deserving special attention. Barriers in HCV care cascade still exist in PWID, and interventions to promote access to HCV diagnosis, link‐to‐care, treatment, and prevention for PWID are warranted. Although HCV micro‐elimination can be achieved in some prisons and opioid substitution therapy (OST) centers by a multidisciplinary team and integrated care in Taiwan, there are still several unmet needs for HCV elimination in PWID. Continuous efforts, such as the participation of OST specialists and the continuum of care for HCV among PWID, are needed to achieve HCV elimination in Taiwan. In addition, the combination of harm reduction services, treatment as prevention and regular posttreatment HCV surveillance is critical to substantially reduce HCV transmission and prevalence in PWID.
Measurement of Upper Airway Volume in Children with Craniofacial Abnormalities
Authors: Gordon Alex J. , Ben‐Dov Tom , Asfour Leena , Pan Lydia , Homsi Marie Therese , Taufique Zahrah , Rickert Scott
Published: November 2023

Objective(s)

Previous literature has established a high prevalence of upper airway obstruction in children with craniofacial abnormalities. This study aims to perform quantitative airway volume measurements in patients with craniofacial abnormalities and compare them to age and sex‐matched controls.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of the records of all children with craniofacial abnormalities who underwent head‐and‐neck computed tomography (CT) imaging at a single tertiary‐care center between 1/1/13 and 12/31/20 using the ICD‐10 codes Q75.1, Q75.4, and Q87.0. These patients were then matched by age and sex to patients with isolated craniosynostosis (Q75.0). CT scans were imported into Dolphin Imaging software, and airway volumes were measured for the nasal cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx. The primary outcome was the total airway volume, defined as the sum of these measurements.

Results

Thirty subjects with craniofacial syndromes were matched to 30 patients with isolated craniosynostosis (controls). In both groups, 18 subjects (60%) were male (p = 0.99). The average ages for syndromic patients and controls were 12.1 and 12.9 months, respectively (p = 0.84). On average, the total airway volumes of syndromic patients were 25% lower than those of controls (p = 0.02). Syndromic patients had 39% smaller nasal cavity volumes (p < 0.001) and 32% smaller nasopharyngeal volumes (p < 0.01). Significant volume differences were not observed for the oropharynx or hypopharynx.

Conclusion

We present a unique technique to measure airway volumes in patients with craniofacial abnormalities. These findings will help practitioners to further understand the anatomy and pathophysiology of disturbed breathing in children with craniofacial syndromes.

Level of Evidence

III Laryngoscope, 134:2915–2921, 2024
A Dynamically Programmable Quantum Photonic Microprocessor for Graph Computation
Authors: Zhu Huihui , Chen Haosen , Li Shuyi , Chen Tian , Li Yuan , Luo Xianshu , Gao Feng , Li Qiang , Zhou Linjie , Karim Muhammad Faeyz , Shang Xiaopeng , Duan Fei , Cai Hong , Chin Lip Ket , Kwek Leong Chuan , Zhang Xiangdong , Liu Ai‐Qun
Published: November 2023

Quantum computing has grown extensively, especially in system design and development, and the current research focus has gradually evolved from validating quantum advantage to practical applications. In particular, nondeterministic‐polynomial‐time (NP)‐complete problems are central in numerous important application areas. Still, in practice, it is difficult to solved efficiently with conventional computers, limited by the exponential jump in hardness. Here, a quantum photonic microprocessor based on Gaussian boson sampling (GBS) that offers dynamic programmability to solve various graph‐related NP‐complete problems is demonstrated. The system with optical, electrical, and thermal packaging implements a GBS with 16 modes of single‐mode squeezed vacuum states, a universal programmable 16‐mode interferometer, and a single photon readout on all outputs with high accuracy, generality, and controllability. The developed system is applied to demonstrate applications in solving NP‐complete problems, manifesting the ability of photonic quantum computing to realize practical applications for conventionally intractable computations. The GBS‐based quantum photonic microprocessor is applied to solve task assignment, Boolean satisfiability, graph clique, max cut, and vertex cover. These demonstrations suggest an excellent benchmarking platform, paving the way toward large‐scale combinatorial optimization.
Tunable Optofluidic Curvature for Micromanipulation
Authors: Verma Gopal , Yadav Gyanendra , Shi Yuzhi , Zhou Lei‐Ming , Qiu Cheng‐Wei , Li Wei
Published: November 2023

Manipulating micro/nanoparticles on deformed liquid interfaces induced by radiation pressure presents an active, non‐invasive, and contactless method. However, a significant challenge arises due to the relatively small magnitude of the radiation force in normal incidence. Nevertheless, this technique holds immense utility in controlling particle movement at interfaces, with numerous applications in both physical and biological contexts. To overcome this, the peculiar properties of total internal reflection (TIR) in retro‐reflection mode are expoited to create a high amplitude bulge on the water surface, which can migrate radius particles as forcibly as the traditional micro‐post paradigm. The bulge height is measured using an interferometric technique, and the underlying physics are demonstrated using an imitated particle with a capillary charge. By shining two pump lasers, an interface shape is created with increasing complexity, and the relative pump laser intensity is tuned to migrate particles in the desired direction. The method provides a non‐invasive and contactless way to remotely actuate almost all types of micro/nanoparticles at the liquid surface.
Highly Discriminative Amplification of a Single Frequency Comb Line
Authors: Xiong Yatan , Zhou Jiaqi , Cao Xinru , Cui Shuzhen , Jiang Huawei , Feng Yan
Published: November 2023

The optical power of a single line in optical frequency combs (OFCs) is inherently weak, so the extraction and amplification of a single OFC line is required for many high‐precision applications. In this work, a high gain, narrowband, and all‐polarization‐maintaining (PM) fiber Brillouin amplifier is introduced to address this issue. The use of PM fiber as the gain medium provides higher Brillouin gain and avoids polarization sensitivity to thermal and acoustic disturbance. The gain fiber is reduced to tens of meters with higher pump power, which is beneficial for the phase quality of the amplified comb line. Numerical simulations and experiments are performed to investigate the features of the Brillouin amplification process for an individual OFC line. Notably, direct generation of a Watt‐level single‐mode laser from an OFC is demonstrated, with a signal‐to‐noise‐ratio (SNR) of 47 dB and a side‐mode‐suppression‐ratio (SMSR) exceeding 60 dB, which represents the highest power, and best SNR and SMSR performance ever reported, to the best of the knowledge.
High‐Resolution 2D Quasi‐Distributed Optical Sensing with On‐Chip Multiplexed FSR‐Free Nanobeam Cavity Array
Authors: Tang Renjie , Sun Chunlei , Bao Kangjian , Chen Zequn , Ju Zezhao , Wei Maoliang , Wu Yingchun , Wu Jianghong , Xu Kai , Lin Hongtao , Li Lan
Published: November 2023

On‐chip free spectral range (FSR)‐free optical filter with a compact footprint is crucial for developing emerging sensing applications, as it allows for the optimal utilization of extensive optical bandwidth. Despite being an important area of technology, on‐chip optical sensing system has faced challenges in channel count, particularly due to the limited FSR, large footprint, and loss of the wavelength‐selective filter unit. To address these challenges, a scalable nanobeam cavity prototype with a length of ≈21 µm based on the asymmetric Bragg mirrors is presented. By engineering the band structure of the nanobeam cavity, the stopband can be flexibly tuned to achieve an FSR‐free spectral response within 350 nm. Two 25‐nanobeam‐cavity arrays are fabricated with a footprint of 215 × 120 µm2 and an average insertion loss of ≈3.2 dB over a broad wavelength range. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the largest‐channel‐count multiplexed micro‐cavity array on a single waveguide, reported to date. As a proof‐of‐principle application, the 2D high‐spatial‐resolution temperature distribution sensing is experimentally demonstrated. This work provides new insight into the design of ultra‐compact FSR‐free filters and will give birth to numerous charming applications that make use of the broad bandwidth capabilities of optics while occupying minimal space.
Ionic Conjugated Microporous Polymers for Cycloaddition of Carbon Dioxide to Epoxides
Authors: Lin Xiang , Guo Zhengjun , Wu Yongneng , Yuan Jiayin , Liao Yaozu , Zhang Weiyi
Published: November 2023

Along the development of ionic porous organic polymers, simple and efficient synthetic methods are actively pursued. Herein, the Debus–Radziszewski reaction is applied to synthesize ionic conjugated microporous polymers (iCMPs) in one step. A series of imidazolium‐linked iCMP‐X (X = 1, 2, 3) are developed for CO2 sorption and in situ conversion with epoxide into cyclic carbonates. The as‐synthesized iCMPs are characterized in detail by scanning electron microscope, solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, N2/CO2 sorption, and more. Among all synthesized iCMPs, iCMP‐1 possesses the highest specific surface area and in turn the strongest CO2 sorption capacity. Moreover, through a simple anion ion exchange reaction with halide, iCMP‐1 is transformed to iCMP‐1@Cl that embodies significant catalytic capability for converting CO2 into cyclic carbonates.
The impact of corporate social responsibility on consumer brand engagement and purchase intention at fashion retailers
Authors: Cuesta‐Valiño Pedro , Gutiérrez‐Rodríguez Pablo , García‐Henche Blanca , Núñez‐Barriopedro Estela
Published: November 2023

Consumers have demonstrated new ways of engaging with fashion retailers and experiencing their brand values. This research aims to understand better how fashion consumers form their purchase intentions, by exploring how their expectations about corporate social responsibility influence consumer brand engagement and purchase intention. The research comprises two studies, using different methodologies. The first study is quantitative; it involved 1296 individuals and the results were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The second study is qualitative and utilizes expert opinions from the fashion industry; it seeks to derive managerial and practical implications from the findings of the first study. The results show that corporate social responsibility influences the purchase intention of fashion consumers, but mainly through brand engagement. Consequently, fashion companies should focus on building consumer trust in the sustainability initiatives of brands, including by utilizing local suppliers.
Offering prosocial incentives on‐top: Do they sweeten the deal or poison the well?
Authors: Beisecker Sven , Schlereth Christian
Published: November 2023

Companies often rely on customer feedback to build and improve their business. Customers, in turn, are expected to (i) fill in customer feedback surveys (participation) and (ii) provide accurate responses (performance). To encourage active participation and ensure accurate responses, companies traditionally offer either self‐benefiting incentives, like lottery prizes, or prosocial incentives, like charity donations. More recently, some companies have started offering prosocial incentives on top of self‐benefiting incentives in the hope to “sweeten the deal,” that is, to improve participation and performance even further. With this research, we challenge whether the on‐top prosocial incentives are effective. The evidence from two field experiments and one incentive‐aligned online experiment does not confirm any such advantage. In contrast, performance can decrease when a low‐amount on‐top prosocial incentive is offered relative to a pure self‐benefiting setting. This trend is only reversed once the on‐top incentive amount increases. Furthermore, for participation, we find that on‐top prosocial incentives are ineffective and, at higher amounts, even detrimental. Therefore, our empirical insights rather suggest that on‐top prosocial incentives “poison the well.”
Antibacterial and DNA‐Based Hydrogels In Situ Block TNF‐α to Promote Diabetic Alveolar Bone Rebuilding
Authors: Peng Linrui , Li Wei , Peng Ge , Wei Danfeng , Gou Liping , Zhou Ye , Zhou Yaojia , Chen Xiaoting , Wu Lei , Zhang Wanli , Hu Liqiang , Cao Qi , Wang Chengshi , Zhang Yuwei
Published: November 2023

Alveolar bone injury under diabetic conditions can severely impede many oral disease treatments. Rebuilding diabetic alveolar bone in clinics is currently challenging due to persistent infection and inflammatory response. Here, an antibacterial DNA‐based hydrogel named Agantigel is developed by integrating silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) antibody into DNA hydrogel to promote diabetic alveolar bone regeneration. Agantigel can effectively inhibit bacterial growth through AgNCs while exhibiting negligible cytotoxicity in vitro. The sustained release of TNF‐α antibody from Agantigel effectively blocks TNF‐α and promotes M2 polarization of macrophages, ultimately accelerating diabetic alveolar bone regeneration in vivo. After 21 days of treatment, Agantigel significantly accelerates the defect healing rate of diabetic alveolar bone up to 82.58 ± 8.58% and improves trabecular architectures compared to free TNF‐α (42.52 ± 15.85%). The results imply that DNA hydrogels are potential bio‐scaffolds helping the sustained release of multidrug for treating DABI or other oral diseases.
Research on a data mining algorithm based on BERTopic for medication rules in Traditional Chinese Medicine prescriptions
Authors: Li Hongchen , Lu Xinyi , Wu Yujia , Luo Jie
Published: November 2023

Background

A data mining algorithm is proposed based on BERTopic to provide new insights into the analysis of medication rules in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) prescriptions.

Methods

Using the BERTopic algorithm, collected TCM prescriptions for corneal diseases are converted to embeddings through a transformer based on the Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers pre‐trained model. Then, Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection is applied to perform dimensionality reduction in prescription embeddings. Subsequently, Hierarchical Density‐Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise is used for clustering. Finally, class‐based term frequency–inverse document frequency is used to generate several main drug combinations from the clustered results.

Results

The highest frequency of drugs used included Buddleja officinalis, Bidens pilosa, Angelica sinensis, Eriocaulon buergerianum, and Raw Rehmannia glutinosa. The most frequent drug combinations were “Eriocaulon buergerianum, Raw Rehmannia glutinosa, Prunella vulgaris, Notopterygium incisum” “Lycii Fructus, Bidens pilosa, Buddleja officinalis” and “Kochiae Fructus, Cortex Dictamni.”

Conclusions

The proposed data mining algorithm based on BERTopic demonstrated promising outcomes in the analysis of TCM prescription medication rules. This method exhibited simplicity and efficiency, thereby offering a novel avenue for analysis.
Novel IARS1 variants cause syndromic developmental disorder with epilepsy in a Chinese patient and the literature review
Authors: Jiang Jinsong , Feng Yu , Tang Qiaoyin , Zhao Chenyue , Guo Min , Wu Jianrui , Guo Rong , Lu Hongyong , Sun Xiayu , Gao Jingbo , Xue Huiqin
Published: November 2023

Background

Isoleucinyl‐tRNA synthetase (IARS) is encoded by the IARS1 gene and catalyzes the binding of isoleucine to specific tRNA.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the pathogenicity of novel IARS1 variants and the genotype–phenotype association, in order to expand the spectrum of pathogenic variants and phenotypes of IARS1‐related disease and provide new evidence for the phenotypic spectrum of IARS1 variants.

Methods

Clinical data of the proband were collected, and trio whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed on the proband and the parents. Candidate variants were validated using Sanger sequencing. Bioinformatics software was utilized to analyze the functional consequences of identified variants and predict their potential deleteriousness.

Results

A 17‐month‐old female patient presented with microcephaly, left external ear malformation, decreased muscle strength and tone in all limbs, epileptic seizures, global developmental delay, and developmental regression. Trio WES identified compound heterozygous variants in the IARS1 gene, c.120‐1G>A and c.2164C>A, which were novel pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants, respectively. The phenotype of developmental regression has not been reported before. Only one patient with IARS1 compound heterozygous variants has been reported in the world to have an epileptic phenotype, and this is the second patient with an epileptic phenotype. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the splicing variant disrupted the canonical splice donor site, while the missense variant altered the local electrostatics of the IARS1 protein surface, potentially leading to functional abnormalities.

Conclusion

This study identified novel IARS1 variants and the phenotype of developmental regression, expanding the spectrum of pathogenic variants and phenotypes of IARS1‐related diseases and providing new evidence for the rare phenotype of epileptic seizures caused by IARS1 variants.
Extreme values of solution of Caputo–Hadamard uncertain fractional differential equation and applications
Authors: Liu Hanjie , Zhu Yuanguo , He Liu
Published: November 2023

Uncertain fractional differential equation (UFDE) is a useful tool for studying complex systems in uncertain environments. The mathematical characteristics of solution of an UFDE are also widely used in various fields. In this paper, we give the extreme value theorems of solution of Caputo–Hadamard UFDE and applications. A numerical algorithm for obtaining the inverse uncertainty distributions (IUDs) for extreme values of solution of Caputo–Hadamard UFDE is presented; the stability and feasibility of the proposed algorithm are validated by numerical experiments. As an application of extreme value theorems in uncertain financial market, the pricing formulas of the American option based on the new uncertain stock model are given. Besides, the algorithms for computing the price of the American option without explicit pricing formulas based on the Simpson's rule are designed. Finally, the price fluctuation of the American option is illustrated by numerical experiments.
pH Sensitive Quercetin Nanoparticles Ameliorate DSS‐Induced Colitis in Mice by Colon‐Specific Delivery
Authors: Wang Lechen , Fu Rongrong , Meng Ying , Liang Jingjie , Xue Wenqing , Hu Haitao , Meng Jing , Zhang Min
Published: November 2023

Scope

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a classic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that represents a serious threat to human health. As a natural flavonoid with multiple biological activities, quercetin (QCT) suffers from low bioavailability through limitations in chemical stability. Here, the study investigates the regulatory effects of quercetin nanoparticles (QCT NPs) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) induced colitis mice.

Methods and results

Chitosan is modified to obtain N‐succinyl chitosan (NSC) with superior water solubility. Nanoparticles composed of sodium alginate (SA) and NSC can encapsulate QCT after cross‐linking, forming QCT NPs. In vitro drug release assays demonstrate the pH sensitivity of QCT NPs. Compared with free quercetin, QCT NPs have better therapeutic efficacy in modulating gut microbiota and its metabolites short chain fatty acid (SCFAs) to relieve DSS‐induced colitis in mice, thereby alleviating colon inflammatory infiltration, increasing goblet cells density and mucus protein, ameliorating TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, and Myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels, and recovering intestinal barrier integrity.

Conclusion

pH sensitive QCT nanoparticles can reduce inflammatory reaction, improve gut microbiota, and repair intestinal barrier by targeting colon, thus improving DSS induced colitis in mice, providing reference for the treatment of colitis.
Radiation damping at clinical field strength: Characterization and compensation in quantitative measurements
Authors: Wallstein Niklas , Müller Roland , Pampel André , Möller Harald E.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In any MR experiment, the bulk magnetization acts on itself, caused by the induced current in the RF receiver circuit that generates an oscillating damping field. This effect, known as “radiation damping” (RD), is usually weak and, therefore, unconsidered in MRI, but can affect quantitative studies performed with dedicated coils that provide a high SNR. The current work examined RD in a setup for investigations of small tissue specimens including a quantitative characterization of the spin‐coil system.

Theory and Methods

A custom‐made Helmholtz coil (radius and spacing 16 mm) was interfaced to a transmit‐receive (Tx/Rx) switch with integrated passive feedback for modulation or suppression of RD similar to preamplifier decoupling. Pulse sequences included pulse‐width arrays to demonstrate the absence/ presence of RD and difference techniques employing gradient pulses or composite RF pulses to quantify RD effects during free precession and transmission, respectively. Experiments were performed at 3T in small samples of MnCl2 solution.

Results

Significant RD effects may impact RF pulse application and evolution periods. Effective damping time constants were comparable to typical T2* times or echo spacings in multi‐echo sequences. Measurements of the phase relation showed that deviations from the commonly assumed 90° angle between the damping field and the transverse magnetization may occur.

Conclusion

Radiation damping may affect the accuracy of quantitative MR measurements performed with dedicated RF coils. Efficient mitigation can be achieved hardware‐based or by appropriate consideration in the pulse sequence.