bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Chronic Disease With Patient Financial Outcomes Among Commercially Insured Adults
Authors: Becker Nora V. , Scott John W. , Moniz Michelle H. , Carlton Erin F. , Ayanian John Z.
Published: August 2022

Importance

The bidirectional association between health and financial stability is increasingly recognized.

Objective

To describe the association between chronic disease burden and patients’ adverse financial outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study analyzed insurance claims data from January 2019 to January 2021 linked to commercial credit data in January 2021 for adults 21 years and older enrolled in a commercial preferred provider organization in Michigan.

Exposures

Thirteen common chronic conditions (cancer, congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, dementia, depression and anxiety, diabetes, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, liver disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma, serious mental illness, stroke, and substance use disorders).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Adjusted probability of having medical debt in collections, nonmedical debt in collections, any delinquent debt, a low credit score, or recent bankruptcy, adjusted for age group and sex. Secondary outcomes included the amount of medical, nonmedical, and total debt among individuals with nonzero debt.

Results

The study population included 2 854 481 adults (38.4% male, 43.3% female, 12.9% unknown sex, and 5.4% missing sex), 61.4% with no chronic conditions, 17.7% with 1 chronic condition, 14.8% with 2 to 3 chronic conditions, 5.4% with 4 to 6 chronic conditions, and 0.7% with 7 to 13 chronic conditions. Among the cohort, 9.6% had medical debt in collections, 8.3% had nonmedical debt in collections, 16.3% had delinquent debt, 19.3% had a low credit score, and 0.6% had recent bankruptcy. Among individuals with 0 vs 7 to 13 chronic conditions, the predicted probabilities of having any medical debt in collections (7.6% vs 32%), any nonmedical debt in collections (7.2% vs 24%), any delinquent debt (14% vs 43%), a low credit score (17% vs 47%) or recent bankruptcy (0.4% vs 1.7%) were all considerably higher for individuals with more chronic conditions and increased with each added chronic condition. Among individuals with medical debt in collections, the estimated amount increased with the number of chronic conditions ($784 for individuals with 0 conditions vs $1252 for individuals with 7-13 conditions) (all P < .001). In secondary analyses, results showed significant variation in the likelihood and amount of medical debt in collections across specific chronic conditions.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study of commercially insured adults linked to patient credit report outcomes shows an association between increasing burden of chronic disease and adverse financial outcomes.
Grafting of Pd on Covalently and Noncovalently Modified N‐Doped Graphene for Electrocatalysis
Authors: Kumar Kandambath Padinjareveetil Akshay , Alduhaish Osamah , Adil Syed Farooq , Pumera Martin
Published: August 2022

Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is considered to be a fundamental solution for procuring clean energy. Palladium is one of the most catalytically active metals toward HER. Here, an electrocatalyst is designed where palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) are immobilized on the surface of nitrogen‐doped reduced graphene oxide. A comparative study of two different nitrogen doping strategies is employed wherein covalent incorporation of nitrogen (N) source and noncovalent attachment of 1‐aminopyrene to graphene lattice is carried out. The morphological and physicochemical characteristic studies confirmed that the doping is successful over the carbon lattice, followed by nucleation of Pd NPs over N sites. Electrocatalytic activity of these two different catalysts toward HER is examined using the linear sweep voltammetry technique. It is found that Pd anchored covalently N modified carbon outperforms the 1‐aminopyrene based catalyst. These findings will have a profound impact upon the designing of application specific electrocatalysts.
Synthesis of Cesium Copper Bromide Nanorods with Strong Linearly Polarized Emission
Authors: Ng Michael , Geng Pai , Shivarudraiah Sunil B. , Guo Liang , Halpert Jonathan E.
Published: August 2022

Semiconductor nanorods have often been observed to emit polarized light. This property can be useful for emission applications such as displays, optical communications, and biological labeling. Recently, many researchers have tried to replace nanocrystals containing toxic metals, such as Cd or Pb, with alternatives that can also demonstrate polarized emission. Here a low temperature injection (LTI) method with a relatively short chain octylammonium bromide ligand precursor is used to slow down the nanorod formation reaction and the controlled anisotropic growth of Cs3Cu2Br5 nanorods is realized, producing more uniform samples of nanorods with higher aspect ratios than those previously reported. Such nanorods exhibit a very high degree of polarization (DOP) of 0.88 ± 0.04 for single rods, and a corresponding polarization anisotropy of 0.26 for the sample population, both the highest yet reported for any perovskite‐like material. Further this method can be extended to produce Cs3Cu2Cl5 nanorods as well, allowing for broad tuning of their optical properties.
Polymer Dispersed Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Mixtures for Optical Time–Temperature Integrators
Authors: Froyen Arne A. F. , Debije Michael G. , Schenning Albert P. H. J.
Published: August 2022

Low molecular weight cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) can be trapped as droplets or particles inside a polymer binder, forming polymer dispersed cholesteric liquid crystal (PDCLC) systems, which are typically used for smart windows, displays, and optical sensors. While dispersing a single CLC mixture via emulsification, rendering reflective PDCLC films upon drying with a stable optical response, is well studied, the incorporation of distinct microdroplets inside a PDCLC coating is barely explored. Here, structural colored PDCLC coatings are prepared by mixing distinctive thermosensitive photonic microdroplets, featuring an optical time–temperature response that is visualized as a reflective color loss or shift dependent on the composition of the CLC mixtures. The presented optical time–temperature response is induced by diffusion of CLCs between adjacent liquid crystal domains via interconnecting passageways, causing an irreversible optical response until homogeneous mixing is attained. Hence, blending distinct CLC microdroplets in a polymer matrix provides a facile and scalable method for fabricating optical time–temperature integrators; moreover, alternative optical time–temperature responses can be realized when adjusting the composition of the photonic mixtures, demonstrating the potential of this method to acquire novel photonic applications based on low molecular weight CLCs.
Enhanced photoreactivity of MOFs by intercalating interlayer bands via simultaneous NCO and SCu modification
Authors: Hu Wei‐Fei , Chen Shuo , Hao Hong‐Chao , Jiang Hong
Published: August 2022

Herein, we propose a novel method to enhance the photoreactivity of an MOF catalyst by grafting isocyanate bonds (NCO) and sulfhydryl‐complexed copper (SCu) onto ZIF‐8 (NIF‐SCu). The grafting process intercalated interlayer bands between the conduction and valence bands of ZIF‐8, thereby providing a “ladder” for facile electron transition. The extreme improvement in the photoreactivity of NIF‐SCu could be attributed to the enhancement in light responses in the range of 350–450 nm by NCO groups and the widening of the visible light range of the MOF by SCu groups. The formation of staggered energy levels in NIF‐SCu could also narrow the band gap, lower the resistance, and facilitate the transfer of photogenerated carriers, thereby generating electrons with strong reduction potential in the SCu conduction band. This study provides a new strategy for improving or even endowing the photoactivity of environmental functional materials with wide bandgaps.
Taylor‐vortex membrane reactor for continuous gas‐liquid reactions
Authors: Venezia Baldassarre , Morris David C. , Gavriilidis Asterios
Published: August 2022

A unique Taylor‐vortex membrane reactor (TVMR) design for continuous gas‐liquid reactions is presented in this work. The reactor consists of a cylindrical rotor inside a stationary concentric cylindrical vessel, and a flexible system of equispaced baffle rings surrounding the rotor. This restricts the annular cross section to a small gap between the baffles and the rotor, and divides the annulus into 18 mixing zones. The baffles support a 6 m long PFA tubular membrane that is woven around the rotor. At 4 mL/min inlet flow rate, the TVMR showed a plug‐flow behavior and outperformed the unbaffled reactor, having 5–12 times lower axial dispersion. The continuous aerobic oxidation of benzyl alcohol was performed for 7 h using the Pd(OAc)2/pyridine catalyst in toluene at 100 °C and 1.1 MPa oxygen pressure. A stable conversion of 30% was achieved with 85% benzaldehyde selectivity, and no pervaporation of organics into the gas phase.
Quantitative principle of shape‐selective catalysis for a rational screening of zeolites for methanol‐to‐hydrocarbons
Authors: Gao Mingbin , Li Hua , Yu Junyi , Ye Mao , Liu Zhongmin
Published: August 2022

The production of hydrocarbons for the synthesis of readily available energy and multifunctional materials is of great importance in modern society. Zeolites have proven to be a boon for the targeted regulation of specific hydrocarbon as shape‐selective catalyst in converting carbon resources. Yet our mechanistic understanding and quantitative description of shape‐selectivity of zeolite catalysis remains rather limited, which restricts the upgrade of zeolite catalysts. Herein, we proposed quantitative principle of shape‐selectivity for zeolite catalysis using methanol‐to‐hydrocarbons (MTH) as model. Combining with molecular simulations and infrared imaging, we unveil the competition of thermodynamic stability, preferential diffusion and favored secondary reactions between different hydrocarbons within zeolite framework are the essence of zeolite shape‐selective catalysis. Notably, we provide methodology to in silico search for the optimal combination of framework topology and acidity properties of zeolites with operating conditions that potentially outperform commercial MTH catalysts to achieve high selectivity of desired hydrocarbon products.
Contemporary outcomes in IDH‐mutated acute myeloid leukemia: The impact of co‐occurring NPM1 mutations and venetoclax‐based treatment
Authors: Lachowiez Curtis A. , Reville Patrick K. , Kantarjian Hagop , Jabbour Elias , Borthakur Gautam , Daver Naval , Issa Ghayas , Furudate Ken , Tanaka Tomoyuki , Pierce Sherry , Tang Guilin , Patel Keyur P. , Medeiros Jeffrey , Abbas Hussein A. , Haddad Fadi , Hammond Daniel , Short Nicholas J. , Maiti Abhishek , Yilmaz Musa , Sasaki Koji , Takahashi Koichi , Pemmaraju Naveen , Konopleva Marina , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Ravandi Farhad , Kadia Tapan M. , Loghavi Sanam , DiNardo Courtney D.
Published: August 2022

Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 or 2 (IDH1 or IDH2) mutations occur frequently in newly diagnosed (ND) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) often with co‐occurring NPM1 mutations, which may influence treatment outcomes. Detailed analysis of IDH‐mutated AML treated with venetoclax and influence of co‐occurring NPM1 mutations remains unclear. This retrospective single‐center cohort study evaluated clinical and molecular demographics,response and survival, and impact of co‐occurring NPM1 mutations in patients with IDH1 or IDH2‐mutated AML. 556 patients with IDH1, IDH2, and/or NPM1 mutated AML were included. Patients with IDH1mut AML (N = 119) were more likely to have older age, sAML, ELN‐adverse risk disease, and adverse‐risk cytogenetics compared to those with IDH2mut (N = 229) or IDHwt/NPM1mut AML (N = 208). In multivariate analysis, patients with IDH2mut (HR 0.61 [95%CI: 0.43–0.88], p value: .007) or IDHwt/NPM1mut (HR 0.65 [95% CI: 0.45–0.94], p value: .024) AML had a decreased risk of death versus IDH1mut AML. Venetoclax‐based lower‐intensity regimens partially abrogated the detrimental effect of IDH1mut with similar OS observed between IDH1mut/NPM1wt, IDH2mut/NPM1wt, and IDHwt/NPM1mut AML. With regards to the influence of IDHmut/NPM1mut cases, IC improved survival in IDH2mut/NPM1mut versus IDH2mut/NPM1wt AML (HR: 0.54 [95% CI: 0.2644–1.082], p value: .077), while venetoclax‐based therapy improved survival in IDH1mut/NPM1mut versus IDH1mut/NPM1wt AML (HR: 0.094 [95% CI: 0.01–0.74], p value: .0056). Differing outcomes were observed in IDH1mut versus IDH2mut or NPM1mut AML which were influenced by co‐occurring NPM1 mutations and partially abrogated with venetoclax‐based therapy. Given the differing biology and survival in IDH1mut AML, investigations incorporating molecularly targeted therapies such as IDH inhibitors remain warranted in this subgroup.
Bioorthogonal Lanthanide Molecular Probes for Near‐Infrared Fluorescence and Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Authors: Jin Guo‐Qing , Sun De‐en , Xia Xiaoqian , Jiang Zhi‐Fan , Cheng Bo , Ning Yingying , Wang Fuyi , Zhao Yao , Chen Xing , Zhang Jun‐Long
Published: August 2022

We report here the development of clickable and highly near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent lanthanide (Ln) complexes for bioorthogonal labeling of biomolecules. These azide‐ or alkyne‐functionalized Ln complexes are hydrophilic and fluorogenic, exhibiting a strong increase of NIR fluorescence upon conjugation with biomolecules. Metabolic labeling of biomolecules with azide or alkyne, followed by click labeling with the Ln complexes, enables NIR fluorescence (NIRF) imaging of DNA, RNA, proteins, and glycans in cells. Furthermore, multicolor imaging is performed by combining click‐labeling with the Ln complexes and immunostaining. In addition, the Ln complexes is compatible with click‐expansion microscopy (click‐ExM), which enables high‐resolution NIRF imaging of cellular glycoproteins. Finally, the Ln complexes can be used for time‐of‐flight secondary‐ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) imaging, thus achieving the first example of dual‐modal imaging combining NIRF and SIMS microscopies.
Simultaneous and Spontaneous Oxidation and Reduction in Microdroplets by the Water Radical Cation/Anion Pair
Authors: Qiu Lingqi , Cooks R. Graham
Published: August 2022

Microdroplets show unique chemistry, especially in their intrinsic redox properties, and to this we here add a case of simultaneous and spontaneous oxidation and reduction. We report the concurrent conversions of several phosphonates to phosphonic acids by reduction (R−P → H−P) and to pentavalent phosphoric acids by oxidation. The experimental results suggest that the active reagent is the water radical cation/anion pair. The water radical cation is observed directly as the ionized water dimer while the water radical anion is only seen indirectly though the spontaneous reduction of carbon dioxide to formate. The coexistence of oxidative and reductive species in turn supports the proposal of a double‐layer structure at the microdroplet surface, where the water radical cation and radical anion are separated and accumulated.
Differential Peptide Multi‐Macrocyclizations at the Surface of a Helical Foldamer Template
Authors: Dengler Sebastian , Douat Céline , Huc Ivan
Published: August 2022

Hybrid sequences comprising a peptide with several Cys residues and an aromatic foldamer helix with several chloroacetamide functions at its surface were synthesized. Such products may in principle form numerous macromulticyclic thioether products by intramolecularly combining all Cys residues and all chloroacetamide functions. However, we show that the reactive sites on the structurally defined helix can be placed at such locations that the peptide selectively stitches itself to form a series of different macrocycles within mostly one preferred product. Reactions were monitored by HPLC and products with two, three or four macrocycles were identified using LC–MS and NMR. The series of selective macrocyclizations define a sort of reaction trail where reaction sites otherwise identical are involved successively because of their precise positioning in space. The trails can be predicted to a large extent based on structural considerations and the assumption that smaller macrocycles form faster.
Amino Acid‐triggered Water‐soluble NBD Derivatives for Differential Organelle Staining and the Role of the Chemical Moiety for their Specific Localization
Authors: Mandal Subhasis , Singh Arpana , Paul Subhojit , Ghosh Arnab , Sen Prosenjit
Published: August 2022

Apart from being the unit of proteins, amino acids have diverse roles. Here we have shown that amino acids guide the differential transportation of a dye molecule to the cellular organelles depending upon the property of their intrinsic functionality. We have conjugated the nitrobenzofurazan (NBD) moiety with two amino acids (lysine and histidine derivatives) with a linker. Both derivates are water‐soluble and biocompatible in nature. Surprisingly, we found that lysine‐conjugated NBD (NBD‐Lys) stains lipid droplets whereas histidine‐conjugated NBD (NBD‐His) stains lysosomes. We also measured the spectral properties of these two NBD conjugates. The results depict that both conjugates are extremely stable both in air and under inert atmosphere, and the fluorescence of the derivatives remains almost unaltered at different pH. Further by altering the functionality of the side chain, we established the contribution of each functional group towards this differential organelle targeting.
The factor structure of cognitive reflection, numeracy, and fluid intelligence: The evidence from the Polish adaptation of the Verbal CRT
Authors: Sobkow Agata , Olszewska Angelika , Sirota Miroslav
Published: August 2022

The Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) is one of the most popular measures of individual differences in rational thought and decision making. To overcome the issue of overlap with numeracy, a novel measure of cognitive reflection less related to numeracy and math anxiety than Numerical CRT was developed—Verbal CRT. The present research had two main aims: first to investigate the generalizability of Verbal CRT in cultural contexts outside the United States/United Kingdom and second to test the factor structure linking traditional—numerical—CRT, Verbal CRT, numeracy, and fluid intelligence. In Studies 1a and 1b, we adapted and tested the validity and psychometric properties of Polish versions of tasks and scales. Next, using a large and diverse sample of Polish adults, we tested five models of the factor structure of cognitive abilities and thinking dispositions (Study 2). The most parsimonious and best‐fitted model contained three latent variables: Verbal CRT, numeracy (composed of the items from the Berlin Numeracy Test and traditional—numerical—CRT), and fluid intelligence. In line with previous research, our results show that Verbal CRT is a valid cognitive reflection measure that provides a clearer interpretation than traditional CRT, even in a different language and cultural context.
Near‐infrared‐induced drug release from antibody–drug double conjugates exerts a cytotoxic photo‐bystander effect
Authors: Takahashi Kazuomi , Yasui Hirotoshi , Taki Shunichi , Shimizu Misae , Koike Chiaki , Taki Kentaro , Yukawa Hiroshi , Baba Yoshinobu , Kobayashi Hisataka , Sato Kazuhide
Published: August 2022

Ideal cancer treatments specifically target and eradicate tumor cells without affecting healthy cells. Therefore, antibody‐based therapies that specifically target cancer antigens can be considered ideal cancer therapies. Antibodies linked with small‐molecule drugs (i.e., antibody–drug conjugates [ADCs]) are widely used in clinics as antibody‐based therapeutics. However, because tumors express antigens heterogeneously, greater target specificity and stable binding of noncleavable linkers in ADCs limit their antitumor effects. To overcome this problem, strategies, including decreasing the binding strength, conjugating more drugs, and targeting tumor stroma, have been applied, albeit with limited success. Thus, further technological advancements are required to remotely control the ADCs. Here, we described a drug that is photo‐releasable from an ADC created via simple double conjugation and its antitumor effects both on target and nontarget tumor cells. Specifically, noncleavable T‐DM1 was conjugated with IR700DX to produce T‐DM1‐IR700. Although T‐DM1‐IR700 itself is noncleavable, with NIR‐light irradiation, it can release DM1‐derivatives which elicited antitumor effect in vitro mixed culture and in vivo mixed tumor model which are mimicking heterogeneous tumor‐antigen expression same as real clinical tumors. This cytotoxic photo‐bystander effect occurred in various types mixed cultures in vitro, and changing antibodies also exerted photo‐bystander effects, suggesting that this technology can be used for targeting various specific cancer antigens. These findings can potentially aid the development of strategies to address challenges associated with tumor expression of heterogeneous antigen.
Characterizing the most effective scaffolding approaches in engineering and technology education: A clustering approach
Authors: Belland Brian R. , Lee Eunseo , Zhang Anna Y. , Kim ChanMin
Published: August 2022

This study indicates the most effective combinations of scaffolding features within computer science and technology education settings. It addresses the research question, “What combinations of scaffolding characteristics, contexts of use, and assessment levels lead to medium and large effect sizes among college‐ and graduate‐level engineering and technology learners?” To do so, studies in which scaffolding led to a medium or large effect size within the context of technology and engineering education were identified within a scaffolding meta‐analysis data set. Next, two‐step cluster analysis in SPSS 24 was used to identify distinct groups of scaffolding attributes tailored to learning computer science at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Input variables included different scaffolding characteristics, the context of use, education level, and effect size. There was an eight‐cluster solution: five clusters were associated with large effect size, two with medium effect size, and one with both medium and large effect size. The three most important predictors were the context in which scaffolding was used, if and how scaffolding is customized over time and the decision rules that govern scaffolding change. Notably, highly effective scaffolding clusters are associated with most levels of each predictor.
Effects of GABAB receptor positive allosteric modulator BHF177 and IRS‐1 on apoptosis of hippocampal neurons in rats with refractory epilepsy via the PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Wang Peng , Nan Shanji , Zhang Yizhi , Fan Jia
Published: August 2022

The present study was conducted to determine the effects of the γ‐aminobutyric acid B (GABAB) receptor positive allosteric modulator BHF177 on refractory epilepsy (RE). An RE rat model was initially established via treatment with lithium‐pilocarpine. The RE rats were then treated with BHF177 or the GABAB receptor antagonist CGP46381, followed by recording of their seizure rate and assessment of their spatial learning in the Morris water maze test. Treatment of BHF177 reduced the seizure intensity, whereas this effect was revered upoj treatment with CGP46381. Immunohistochemistry revealed that BHF177 treatment diminished P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) expression in the hippocampal tissues of RE rats. Next, we found that BHF177 activated GABAB receptor, resulting in upregulated expression of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS‐1) and PI3K, as well as antiapoptotic factors (Bcl‐2 and mTOR), along with suppression of the apoptosis factors Bax and cleaved caspase‐3 in the hippocampal tissues. Further, activation of GABAB receptors by BHF177 alleviated the inflammatory response in hippocampal tissues of RE rats, as evidenced by reduced VCAM‐1, ICAM‐1, and tumor necrosis factor‐α levels. Next, we treated primary cultured rat hippocampal neurons with BHF177 and the IRS‐1 selective inhibitor NT157. BHF177 inhibited hippocampal apoptosis in rat hippocampal neurons by regulating the IRS‐1/PI3K/Akt axis through crosstalk between GABAB and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptors. Collectively, our findings indicate that the BHF177 inhibited neuron apoptosis, thus protecting against RE through the IRS‐1/PI3K/Akt axis, which may present a new therapeutic channel for RE.
DNA methylation influences the CTCF‐modulated transcription of RASSF1A in lung cancer cells
Authors: Xie Bin , Peng Feng , He Fengping , Cheng Yixing , Cheng Jiangtao , Zhou Zhibing , Mao Wei
Published: August 2022

Ras‐association domain family 1A (RASSF1A) is one of the most methylated genes in lung cancer (LC). We investigate whether the high DNA methylation level of RASSF1A can relieve the resistance of RASSF1A to LC by inhibiting RASSF1A's transcription factor binding to RASSF1A. RASSF1A expression in tissues and cells was tested utilizing quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), and Western blot. RASSF1A expression and RASSF1A methylation level in LC cells exposed to 5‐Aza‐dc were assessed by qRT‐PCR and quantitative methylation‐specific PCR. The association between CTCF and RASSF1A was assessed using hTFtarget, ChIP, and luciferase reporter gene analysis. The effects of 5‐Aza‐dc, CTCF, and RASSF1A on cell biological behaviors and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐related markers were assessed by cell function experiments and Western blot. Moreover, we constructed the xenograft tumor and pulmonary nodule metastasis models, and assessed tumor volume and weight. RASSF1A expression and pulmonary nodule metastasis were tested utilizing qRT‐PCR, Western blot, and H&E staining. RASSF1A was under‐expressed in LC tissues and cells. 5‐Aza‐dc enhanced RASSF1A level and weakened RASSF1A methylation level in LC cells. RASSF1A silencing neutralized 5‐Aza‐dc‐mediated repressing effects on LC cell biological function and EMT. The loss of CTCF binding to RASSF1A in LC cells was associated with DNA methylation. The effect of 5‐Aza‐dc on RASSF1A level, LC cell malignant behaviors, and EMT‐related factors were strengthened by CTCF upregulation. RASSF1A overexpression suppressed LC tumor growth and pulmonary nodule metastasis in vivo. DNA methylation blocked the modulation of RASSF1A expression by CTCF and relieved the resistance of RASSF1A to LC.
LncRNA KCNQ1OT1 contributes to hydrogen peroxide‐induced apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress of cardiomyocytes via miR‐130a‐3p/ZNF791 axis
Authors: Xin Hong , Li Chengliang , Cai Tianzhi , Cao Jinlong , Wang Meixue
Published: August 2022

It has been reported that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) KCNQ1 opposite strand/antisense transcript 1 (KCNQ1OT1) played an important role in myocardial infarction (MI). However, the regulatory network behind KCNQ1OT1 in MI is largely unknown. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was applied to detect the enrichment of KCNQ1OT1, microRNA‐130a‐3p (miR‐130a‐3p) and zinc finger 791 (ZNF791). The viability and apoptosis of AC16 cells were measured by (4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted to assess the inflammation and oxidative stress status of AC16 cells. The targeted relationship between miR‐130a‐3p and KCNQ1OT1 or ZNF791 was predicted by StarBase bioinformatic database, and dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were carried out to verify these predictions. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) stimulation caused a significant upregulation in the expression of KCNQ1OT1, while the level of miR‐130a‐3p showed an opposite phenomenon. KCNQ1OT1 was a crucial downstream component in H2O2‐mediated toxic effects, and KCNQ1OT1 accelerated H2O2‐induced toxic effects in AC16 cells. KCNQ1OT1 could sponge miR‐130a‐3p and down‐regulate its expression. MiR‐130a‐3p exerted opposite effects to KCNQ1OT1, and the depletion of miR‐130a‐3p attenuated the protective effects of KCNQ1OT1 intervention on AC16 cells exposed to H2O2. MiR‐130a‐3p could bind to ZNF791, and ZNF791 served as the target of miR‐130a‐3p to promote H2O2‐induced injury of AC16 cells. ZNF791 was modulated by KCNQ1OT1/miR‐130a‐3p signaling in H2O2‐treated AC16 cells. In all, lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 deteriorated H2O2‐mediated injury in cardiomyocytes through upregulating ZNF791 via serving as a molecular sponge for miR‐130a‐3p.
Dynorphin/KOR inhibits neuronal autophagy by activating mTOR signaling pathway to prevent acute seizure epilepsy
Authors: Liu Lin , Liu Zuoliang , Zeng Chunyun , Xu Yingtong , He Li , Fang Qing , Chen Zhiheng
Published: August 2022

In previous studies, we found that dynorphin exerts antiepileptic effect by activating the kappa opioid receptor (KOR). However, the role of neuronal autophagy in dynorphin/KOR‐mediated antiepileptic is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism of dynorphin's antiepileptic effect by inhibiting autophagy and reducing neuronal apoptosis. Here, a pilocarpine‐induced rat model of epilepsy was established and hippocampal neurons were treated with Mg2+‐free exposed for epileptiform activity induction. The real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were used to evaluate messenger RNA and protein expression. The TdT‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end labeling staining and flow cytometry were used to analyze cell apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. Neuron cells viability was detected by Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay. Immunofluorescent staining and green fluorescent protein‐light chain 3 immunofluorescence were used to measure autophagy in vivo and in vitro. Results showed that overexpression of prodynorphin alleviated neuronal apoptosis, activated the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway, and inhibited neuronal autophagy in epileptic rats. Dynorphin inhibited Mg2+‐free‐induced seizure‐like neuron apoptosis, partially reversing the effect of Mg2+‐free on the mTOR signaling pathway and seizure‐like neuron autophagy. Further, using rapamycin, we found that dynorphin inhibited Mg2+‐free‐induced seizure‐like neuron autophagy and apoptosis by activating the mTOR signaling pathway. In conclusion, dynorphin inhibits autophagy by activating the mTOR signaling pathway and has a protective effect on epilepsy acute seizure and epilepsy‐induced brain injury.
A simplified cardiac damage staging predicts the outcome of patients undergoing TAVR—A multicenter analysis
Authors: Shamekhi Jasmin , Hasse Caroline , Veulemans Verena , Al‐Kassou Baravan , Piayda Kerstin , Maier Oliver , Zeus Tobias , Weber Marcel , Sedaghat Alexander , Zimmer Sebastian , Kelm Malte , Nickenig Georg , Sinning Jan‐Malte
Published: August 2022

Background

A significant number of patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) suffer from extra‐aortic cardiac damage. Few studies have investigated strategies to quantify cardiac damage and stratify patients accordingly in different risk groups. The aim of this retrospective multicenter study was to provide a user‐friendly simplified staging system based on the proposed classification system of Généreux et al. as a tool to evaluate the prognosis of patients undergoing TAVR more easily. Moreover, we analyzed changes in cardiac damage after TAVR.

Methods

We assessed cardiac damage in patients, who underwent TAVR at the Heart Center Bonn or Düsseldorf, using pre‐ and postprocedural transthoracic echocardiography. Patients were assigned to the staging system proposed by Généreux et al. according to the severity of their baseline cardiac damage. Based on the established system, we created a simplified staging system to facilitate improved applicability. Finally, we compared clinical outcomes between the groups and evaluated changes in cardiac damage after TAVR.

Results

A total of 933 TAVR patients were included in the study. We found a significant association between cardiac damage and 1‐year all‐cause mortality (stage 0: 0% vs. stage 1: 3% vs. stage 2: 6.6%; p < 0.009). In multivariate analysis, cardiac damage was an independent predictor of 1‐year all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio: 2.0, 95% confidence interval: 1.1–3.8; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing TAVR, cardiac damage is associated with enhanced mortality. A simplified staging system can help identify patients at high risk for an adverse outcome.
Otologic complications of temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis due to arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Fanti Joseph A. , Reddy Abhita , Greenbaum Evan , Qaisi Mohammed , Shah Biraj , Murphy James
Published: August 2022

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a rare sequela following arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint. This case report discusses a constellation of symptoms, findings, and appropriate management of a patient with a superficial temporal AVF. Several findings in this case, including vertigo, nystagmus, and hearing loss, have not been previously documented in the literature.
Pallister–Hall syndrome diagnosed in a young man after an acute adrenal crisis
Authors: Grassa Anis , Yazidi Meriem , Marrakchi Jihene , Bel Hadj Sliman Chaima , Oueslati Ibtissem , Chihaoui Melika
Published: August 2022

Pallister–Hall syndrome (PHS) is a very rare genetic disorder. The diagnosis is usually suspected at the young age when a hypothalamic hamartoma is associated with polydactyly. Endocrine manifestations are mostly related to hypothalamic hamartoma and rarely reveal the disease. We report the case of an 18‐year‐old young man in whom the diagnosis of PHS was delayed until his hospitalization in the endocrinology department for acute adrenal insufficiency.
Pt Nanoelectrodes Sealed in Quartz Capillaries Modified with Underpotential‐Deposited Bismuth for Formic Acid Electrooxidation
Authors: Battistel Dario , Citron Alberto , Veclani Daniele , Daniele Salvatore
Published: August 2022

Platinum disk nano‐ and micro‐electrodes with radii in the range 40 nm–12.5 μm were fabricated using quartz capillaries and the laser‐puller assisted approach. The hydrogen underpotential deposition (H‐UPD), performed in a 0.5 M H2SO4 aqueous solution, revealed that the nanoelectrodes, with radii of 160 nm and less, displayed extraordinarily large surface areas, which in terms of roughness factors (RFs, i. e., the ratio of the real surface areas to the geometric surface areas) were in the range 1030–3600. This finding was attributed to diffusion of adsorbed species at the Pt/quartz interface along portions of the Pt wires sealed within the glass. RFs between 2 and 3 were instead found at the microelectrodes. Similar results were also obtained with underpotential‐deposited metallic bismuth. In this case, diffusion of Bi adatoms onto the Pt surface was hindered to some extent, providing a RF value of 172. Bi‐modified Pt nano‐ and micro‐electrodes were employed to study the electrooxidation of HCOOH, which is of interest in the field of fuel cells. It was found that the nanoelectrode displayed higher activity towards the electrooxidation of HCOOH and tolerance to CO poisoning, compared to the microelectrode.
Inhibition of Urease by Hydroquinones: A Structural and Kinetic Study
Authors: Mazzei Luca , Cianci Michele , Ciurli Stefano
Published: August 2022

Hydroquinones are a class of organic compounds abundant in nature that result from the full reduction of the corresponding quinones. Quinones are known to efficiently inhibit urease, a NiII‐containing enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea to yield ammonia and carbonate and acts as a virulence factor of several human pathogens, in addition to decreasing the efficiency of soil organic nitrogen fertilization. Here, we report the molecular characterization of the inhibition of urease from Sporosarcina pasteurii (SPU) and Canavalia ensiformis (jack bean, JBU) by 1,4‐hydroquinone (HQ) and its methyl and tert‐butyl derivatives. The 1.63‐Å resolution X‐ray crystal structure of the SPU‐HQ complex discloses that HQ covalently binds to the thiol group of αCys322, a key residue located on a mobile protein flap directly involved in the catalytic mechanism. Inhibition kinetic data obtained for the three compounds on JBU reveals the occurrence of an irreversible inactivation process that involves a radical‐based autocatalytic mechanism.
“Crystal memory” Affects the Properties of Peptide Hydrogels – The Case of the Cyclic Tyr‐Tyr dipeptide
Authors: Chotera‐Ouda Agata , Jeziorna Agata , Kaźmierski Sławomir , Dolot Rafał , Dudek Marta K. , Potrzebowski Marek J.
Published: August 2022

In this work a relationship between the crystal form and morphology and rheological properties of peptide‐based hydrogels is examined. We show, that under favorable circumstances a correlation between a starting solid material and a self‐assembly processes in solution can exist, leading to different properties of a resulting soft matter. This observation, together with an in‐depth analysis of the influence of stereochemistry of self‐assembled (ll) and (dl) Tyr‐Tyr cyclic dipeptides (cYY) on the observed relationship between gelation and crystallization allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the peptide hydrogelation processes at a molecular level, using liquid state NMR, rheological studies and scanning electron microscopy. In the course of our studies, several crystal forms of (ll)‐cYY has been discovered and described in details using single crystal X‐ray diffraction, as well as advanced solid state NMR, X‐ray diffraction of powders, thermal analysis, FTIR, circular dichroism and crystal structure prediction (CSP) calculations. Subsequently, we found that while (ll)‐cYY easily assembles into hydrogels with different properties depending on the starting solid form, (dl)‐cYY always precipitated as one crystal form in the tested conditions. Molecular‐level justification for this observation is given.
Modelling fast pyrolysis of biomass in a fluidized bed reactor
Authors: Troiano Maurizio , Ianzito Valeria , Solimene Roberto , Ganda Elvis Tinashe , Salatino Piero
Published: August 2022

A compartmental one‐dimensional model of a fluidized bed pyrolytic converter of biomass is presented. Reference conditions are those of non‐catalytic fast pyrolysis of biomass in a shallow fluidized bed with external regeneration of the bed material. The fate of biomass and of the resulting char has been modelled by considering elutriation of biomass and char particles, char attrition as well as bed drain/regeneration. The course of primary and secondary pyrolitic reactions is modelled according to a semi‐lumped reaction network using well‐established kinetic parameters taken from the literature. A specific focus of the present study is the role of the heterogeneous volatile–char secondary reactions, whose rate has been modelled by borrowing a kinetic expression from the neighbouring area of tar adsorption/decomposition over char. The results of computations highlight the relevance of heterogeneous volatile–char secondary reactions and of the closely associated control of char loading in the bed. The sensitivity of the reactor performance to char elutriation and attrition, to proper management of bed drain/regeneration, and to control of gas phase backmixing is demonstrated. Model results provide useful guidelines for optimal design and control of fluidized bed pyrolyzers and pinpoint future research priorities.
Effects of floating covers used for evaporation suppression on reservoir physical, chemical and biological water quality parameters
Authors: Bakhtiar Mahsa , Aminzadeh Milad , Taheriyoun Masoud , Or Dani , Mashayekh Emad
Published: August 2022

Increasing demand for freshwater in arid regions with chronic water shortage calls for expansion of water storage for drought periods while protecting storage from evaporative losses. A cost‐effective and scalable method for evaporation suppression uses floating elements; however, little is known regarding biochemical and water quality effects under these covers. Two identical reservoirs with area of 25 m2 and depth of 2 m were used to investigate the influence of floating covers on water quality parameters for a period of one year (2019–2020). One of the reservoirs was covered with Styrofoam discs, and results were compared with the uncovered one. Results showed that the evaporation suppression efficiency of floating discs gradually decreased from 80% in spring to about 60% in winter. The comparison between reservoirs revealed that the presence of floating covers decreased pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS) and dissolved oxygen by 11%, 11%, 15% and 36%, respectively. We observed an increase in nitrate (30%), phosphate (27%) and ammonia (95%) concentrations in the covered reservoir. Results also demonstrated more concentration of biological populations such as algae and protozoa in the uncovered reservoir. The findings highlight improvement of certain water quality parameters in covered reservoirs such as EC and TDS with potential impacts on irrigation systems and soil health and salinity constraints.
Comparison and selection of probiotic Lactobacillus from human intestinal tract and traditional fermented food in vitro via PCA, unsupervised clustering algorithm, and heat‐map analysis
Authors: Zhang Longfei , Qu Hengxian , Liu Xiaoxiao , Li Qiming , Liu Yang , Wang Wenqiong , Chen Dawei , Xiao Lixia , Gu Ruixia
Published: August 2022

Traditional fermented products and human intestines are rich sources of Lactobacillus strains which may have remarkable probiotic properties. In the present study, the probiotic properties of 40 Lactobacillus strains isolated from intestinal tracts of longevity population and traditional fermented food in China were determined, including the survival rates in simulated gastric acid and bile salt, aggregation, hydrophobicity, adhesion rate, antioxidant ability (ferric reducing antioxidant power), and antimicrobial ability. The differences between human strains and nonhuman strains were compared via t‐test and principal component analysis (PCA). The significant differences were found in the survival rate at 0.3% bile salt, adhesion ability of the strains, and antioxidant ability of the fermentation broth (p < .05). The results of PCA showed that the first principal component (PC1) score of human strains was significantly higher than that of nonhuman strains (p < .01). And some probiotic Lactobacillus were selected for further application based on the unsupervised clustering algorithm, heat‐map analysis, and K‐means algorithm. Four strains, CS128, CS39, CS01, and CS1301, along with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) were divided into cluster I. The four strains, all isolated from human tracts, have been selected. Thus, human Lactobacillus has better probiotic potential and application prospects than strains from the nonhuman source. PCA, the unsupervised clustering algorithm, and heat‐map analysis can be used to analyze and select Lactobacillus visually and effectively.
Clastic sedimentary records of the Upper Triassic Sichuan Basin, China: Implications for the transition from marine to transitional environment
Authors: Shi Zhensheng , Zhou Tianqi , Guo Changmin
Published: August 2022

The Upper Triassic Xiaotangzi and Xujiahe formations are important gas exploration targets in the Sichuan Basin. This article, based on a systematic analysis of sandstone clastic framework components, depositional structures, clay minerals, trace elements and organic geochemistry, gives a detailed discussion regarding their sedimentary environment. There exist abundant tide‐generated depositional structures in this sequence, and the sedimentary provenance was dominated by a recycled orogen belt in the north and by a continental block at an early stage then recycled orogen belt at the late stage in the south of the western Sichuan Basin. The Xiaotangzi Formation and members 2–3 of the Xujiahe Formation only have authigenic illite and chlorite. In contrast, members 4–6 contain increasing kaolinite and decreasing illite and chlorite from bottom to top. The water column salinity gradually downgraded from hyperhaline, euhaline and polyhaline of the Xiaotangzi Formation to member 2 to polyhaline and mesohaline of members 3–6. The source rocks of the Xiaotangzi and Xujiahe formations have a generally low Pr/Ph, minus the value of (Pr/nC17)‐(Ph/nC18), and high values of Pr/nC17 and Ph/nC18. They also show apparent dominance of 9‐MP in methylphenanthrene composition and different point groups of fluorenes, dibenzofurans and dibenzothiophenes from marine or salt lake facies, as well as typical swamp facies. In conclusion, the Xiaotangzi Formation and members 2–3 were deposited in a marine environment, whereas members 4–6 were deposited mainly in a transitional to the continental environment.
Do Health Care Organizations Have Legitimate Responsibilities beyond the Delivery of Health Care? Insights from Citizenship Theory
Authors: Taylor Lauren A. , Lapite Folasade C. , Berry Kelsey N.
Published: August 2022

Many health care organizations made public commitments to become antiracist in the wake of George Floyd's murder. These actions raise questions about the appropriateness of health care's engagement in racial justice and social justice movements generally. We argue that health care organizations can be usefully thought of as having two roles: a functional role to care for the sick and a meta‐role as an organizational citizen. Fulfilling the role of citizen may require participating in the pursuit of social justice, including efforts to achieve racial equity. The demands of these two roles will need to be balanced, but the role of organizational citizen has been largely ignored and merits serious attention.
Intrinsic brain activity patterns across large‐scale networks predict reciprocity propensity
Authors: Li Ting , Pei Zhaodi , Zhu Zhiyuan , Wu Xia , Feng Chunliang
Published: August 2022

Reciprocity is prevalent across human societies, but individuals are heterogeneous regarding their reciprocity propensity. Although a large body of task‐based brain imaging measures has shed light on the neural underpinnings of reciprocity at group level, the neural basis underlying the individual differences in reciprocity propensity remains largely unclear. Here, we combined brain imaging and machine learning techniques to individually predict reciprocity propensity from resting‐state brain activity measured by fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation. The brain regions contributing to the prediction were then analyzed for functional connectivity and decoding analyses, allowing for a data‐driven quantitative inference on psychophysiological functions. Our results indicated that patterns of resting‐state brain activity across multiple brain systems were capable of predicting individual reciprocity propensity, with the contributing regions distributed across the salience (e.g., ventrolateral prefrontal cortex), fronto‐parietal (e.g., dorsolateral prefrontal cortex), default mode (e.g., ventromedial prefrontal cortex), and sensorimotor (e.g., supplementary motor area) networks. Those contributing brain networks are implicated in emotion and cognitive control, mentalizing, and motor‐based processes, respectively. Collectively, these findings provide novel evidence on the neural signatures underlying the individual differences in reciprocity, and lend support the assertion that reciprocity emerges from interactions among regions embodied in multiple large‐scale brain networks.