bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phoenixin‐14 maintains the contractile type of vascular smooth muscle cells in cerebral aneurysms rats
Authors: Ling Cong , Yang Yang , Zhang Baoyu , Wang Hui , Chen Chuan
Published: August 2024

The rupture of intracranial aneurysm (IA) is the primary reason contributing to the occurrence of life‐threatening subarachnoid hemorrhages. The oxidative stress‐induced phenotypic transformation from the contractile phenotype to the synthetic phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays a pivotal role in IA formation and rupture. Our study aimed to figure out the role of phoenixin‐14 in VSMC phenotypic switching during the pathogenesis of IA by using both cellular and animal models. Primary rat VSMCs were isolated from the Willis circle of male Sprague‐Dawley rats. VSMCs were stimulated by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to establish a cell oxidative damage model. After pretreatment with phoenixin‐14 and exposure to H2O2, VSMC viability, migration, and invasion were examined through cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), wound healing, and Transwell assays. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in VSMCs was evaluated by using 2′,7′‐Dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH‐DA) fluorescence probes and flow cytometry. Rat IA models were established by ligation of the left common carotid arteries and posterior branches of both renal arteries. The histopathological changes of rat intracranial blood vessels were observed through hematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of contractile phenotype markers (alpha‐smooth muscle actin [α‐SMA] and smooth muscle 22 alpha [SM22α]) in VSMCs and rat arterial rings were determined through real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and western blot analysis. Our results showed that H2O2 stimulated the production of intracellular ROS and induced oxidative stress in VSMCs, while phoenixin‐14 pretreatment attenuated intracellular ROS levels in H2O2‐exposed VSMCs. H2O2 exposure promoted VSMC migration and invasion, which, however, was reversed by phoenixin‐14 pretreatment. Besides, phoenixin‐14 administration inhibited IA formation and rupture in rat models. The decrease in α‐SMA and SM22α levels in H2O2‐exposed VSMCs and IA rat models was antagonized by phoenixin‐14. Collectively, phoenixin‐14 ameliorates the progression of IA through preventing the loss of the contractile phenotype of VSMCs.
Dehydrocostus Lactone Ameliorates LPS‐Induced Acute Lung Injury by Inhibiting PFKFB3‐Mediated Glycolysis
Authors: Li Yue , Wang Xinrui , Zhao Lirong , Pan Boyu , Xu Xiao , Zhu Dongrong
Published: August 2024

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a destructive respiratory disease characterized by alveolar structural destruction and excessive inflammation responses. Aerobic glycolysis of macrophages plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of ALI. Previous studies have shown that the expression of the key rate‐limiting enzyme 6‐phosphofructo‐2‐kinase/fructose‐2,6‐bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) in inflammatory cells is significantly increased, which promotes an increase in the rate of glycolysis in inflammatory cells. However, little is known about the biological functions of PFKFB3 in macrophage inflammation and ALI. In this study, we identified that PFKFB3 is markedly increased in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced ALI mice and macrophages. Knockdown of pfkfb3 attenuated LPS‐induced glycolytic flux, decreased the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and inactivated NF‐κB signaling pathway in macrophages. Subsequently, we found that dehydrocostus lactone (DL), a natural sesquiterpene lactone, significantly decreased both the mRNA and protein levels of PFKFB3. Furthermore, it reduced the release of inflammatory cytokines and inactivated NF‐κB pathways in vitro. Accordingly, DL alleviated LPS‐induced pulmonary edema and reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells in mouse lung tissue. In summary, our study reveals the vital role of PFKFB3 in LPS‐induced inflammation and discovers a novel molecular mechanism underlying DL's protective effects on ALI.
Paradoxical action of PP2A inhibition and its potential for therapeutic sensitization
Authors: Jiang Yue , Yuan Ying , Qiao Guanglei , Deng Zhoufeng , Liu Zimei , Zhang Yan , Yu Liping , Lin Hongjian , Ma Lijun , Zhang Jianjun
Published: August 2024

The protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), a serine/threonine phosphatase, is recognized as a tumor suppressor involved in diverse cellular processes and essential for maintaining cell viability in vivo. However, endogenous inhibitors of PP2A such as cancerous inhibitor of PP2A (CIP2A) and endogenous nuclear protein inhibitor 2 of PP2A (SET) counteract the anticancer function of PP2A, promoting tumorigenesis, development, and drug resistance in tumors. Surprisingly though, contrary to conventional understanding, inhibition of the tumor suppressor gene PP2A with exogenous small molecule compounds can enhance the efficacy of cancer treatment and achieve superior tumor inhibition. Moreover, exogenous PP2A inhibitors resensitize cancers to treatment and provide novel therapeutic strategies for drug‐resistant tumors, which warrant further investigation.
Money can buy me love: Gifts are a more effective form of acute social support than conversations
Authors: Howe Holly S. , Wiener Hillary J. D. , Chartrand Tanya L.
Published: August 2024

If you are having a hard day, what can someone else do to help you feel better? Maybe they could verbally comfort you or maybe they could give you a small gift. In seven studies, including an in‐person real gifting study, we find that receiving a small material gift, such as a candy bar or flowers, improves receivers' affect more than a supportive conversation with a close other does. We investigate the mechanism for this effect and find that support receivers perceive a gift to be a larger sacrifice than a conversation. This occurs because gifts seem more receiver‐focused (i.e., actions done solely to benefit the receiver) than do conversations. This difference in perceived sacrifice makes gifts (vs. conversations) more effective at promoting emotional recovery.
Determining the normal range of the calcaneus‐metatarsal angles in the second‐trimester fetal ultrasound examination using the novel measurement technique “Melek's angles”: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Turgut Ümran Kılınçdemir , Yücel Neşe
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study is to establish the normal calcaneus‐metatarsal angles in order to facilitate the recognition of fetal foot deformities. Therefore, a novel measurement technique was determined using ultrasound and applied to nonanomalous fetuses in the 18th to 23rd gestational weeks.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 100 low‐risk, nonanomalous fetuses in the 18th to 23rd weeks of gestation. Measurements were obtained using the novel measurement technique in fetal ultrasound examination. Fetal biometry, foot sole length, first and fifth metatarsal diaphyseal length measurements were taken. The acute angle measurement of the line segment passing between the calcaneus outer lateral and proximal fifth metatarsal with the long axis of the first metatarsal diaphysis (CA‐mtt1) and long axis of the fifth metatarsal diaphysis (CA‐mtt5) was taken. Interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities were assessed by intraclass correlations (ICC).

Results

A strong positive correlation was detected between bi‐parietal diameter (BPD) and foot sole length, first metatarsal diaphyseal length and fifth metatarsal diaphyseal length (p < 0.0001). No significant correlation of these CA‐mtt1 and CA‐mtt5 angles with BPD was detected (p = 0.35, p = 0.82, respectively). The data suggest that the CA‐mtt1 and CA‐mtt5 angles remained consistently within a narrow range and were determined to be 20.0° ± 8.7° and 7.8° ± 7.5°, respectively. Intraobserver and interobserver agreement for CA‐mtt1 angle was moderate (ICC, 0.655) and moderate (ICC, 0.615), for CA‐mtt5 angle was moderate (ICC, 0.631) and moderate (ICC, 0.605), respectively.

Conclusion

A normal reference range was established for fetal sole length, first metatarsal diaphysis length, fifth metatarsal diaphysis length, CA‐mtt1 angle, and CA‐mtt5 angle in the 18th to 23rd weeks of gestation. It was determined that the CA‐mtt1 and CA‐mtt5 angles remained relatively constant within a narrow range throughout the assessed gestational weeks.
Raman Spectroscopy for the Differentiation of Muscles and Tissues in Meat Using Chicken as a Model System
Authors: Shoko Patience T. , Blanch Ewan W. , Torley Peter J. , Pillidge Christopher
Published: August 2024

The application of Raman spectroscopy in the meat processing industry as a quality assurance is dependent on its ability to differentiate tissues from the animal. Meat is commercialised as different cuts with variations in quality and financial value. Whilst it is possible to conduct some analysis on meat quality, there are high costs and time involved. The meat processing industry could benefit from rapid methods for characterising meat quality for large quantities. This study demonstrates the ability of combining Raman spectroscopy with chemometrics to discriminate tissues in a chicken carcass. All spectra from the different tissues were analysed by applying chemometrics. The principal component analysis (PCA) and discriminant function analysis (DFA) showed successful classification of different muscles and tissues.
Estimation of winter wheat LAI based on color indices and texture features of RGB images taken by UAV
Authors: Li Hao , Yan Xiaobin , Su Pengyan , Su Yiming , Li Junfeng , Xu Zixin , Gao Chunrui , Zhao Yu , Feng Meichen , Shafiq Fahad , Xiao Lujie , Yang Wude , Qiao Xingxing , Wang Chao
Published: August 2024

Background

Leaf area index (LAI) is an important indicator for assessing plant growth and development, and is also closely related to photosynthesis in plants. The realization of rapid accurate estimation of crop LAI plays an important role in guiding farmland production. In study, the UAV‐RGB technology was used to estimate LAI based on 65 winter wheat varieties at different fertility periods, the wheat varieties including farm varieties, main cultivars, new lines, core germplasm and foreign varieties. Color indices (CIs) and texture features were extracted from RGB images to determine their quantitative link to LAI.

Results

The results revealed that among the extracted image features, LAI exhibited a significant positive correlation with CIs (r = 0.801), whereas there was a significant negative correlation with texture features (r = −0.783). Furthermore, the visible atmospheric resistance index, the green–red vegetation index, the modified green–red vegetation index in the CIs, and the mean in the texture features demonstrated a strong correlation with the LAI with r > 0.8. With reference to the model input variables, the backpropagation neural network (BPNN) model of LAI based on the CIs and texture features (R2 = 0.730, RMSE = 0.691, RPD = 1.927) outperformed other models constructed by individual variables.

Conclusion

This study offers a theoretical basis and technical reference for precise monitor on winter wheat LAI based on consumer‐level UAVs. The BPNN model, incorporating CIs and texture features, proved to be superior in estimating LAI, and offered a reliable method for monitoring the growth of winter wheat. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Moderate burden amongst caregivers posthip arthroscopy linked to younger caregiver age and task load: A cross‐sectional survey study
Authors: Bourgeault‐Gagnon Yoan , Patel Mansi , Walker Madison , Khalik Hassaan Abdel , Duong Andrew , Simunovic Nicole , Ayeni Olufemi R. ,   The Caregiver Burden Survey Investigators
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the burden experienced by primary informal caregivers of patients who have undergone hip arthroscopy and to identify factors that predict increased caregiver burden.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted at a single academic hospital centre, enroling caregivers of patients who underwent hip arthroscopy between November 2018 and November 2023. Caregiver burden was assessed using the Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) survey. Multivariable linear regression models were used to identify predictors of caregiver burden, with the global CBI score serving as the primary outcome measure. Secondarily, open‐ended survey questions were analyzed qualitatively to elucidate specific challenges and facilitators of caregiving, as reported by the caregivers themselves.

Results

The study involved 99 eligible caregivers (mean [standard deviation] age; 47 [11] years), 58% were female, and 85% were relatives of the patient. The median global CBI score was 13.0 (interquartile range: 8.0–22.4), indicating a moderate burden. Regression analyses demonstrated that younger caregiver age and a higher number of caregiving tasks were significant predictors of increased global burden. Additionally, nonweightbearing status of patients, female gender of caregivers and working full‐time statistically significantly increased specific dimensions of caregiver burden.

Conclusion

This study highlights the meaningful burden faced by caregivers of patients undergoing hip arthroscopy, despite its minimally invasive nature and outpatient setting. Identified risk factors such as younger caregiver age, female gender of the caregiver, nonweight‐bearing status and increased caregiving tasks suggest targeted areas for intervention. The qualitative analysis revealed that caregivers struggle with time management and physical and emotional strain, yet better communication and practical support from healthcare teams could help to alleviate these challenges.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, prognostic study.
Random Copolymers Based on 2‐Ethylhexyl Acrylate Exhibit Unusual Glass Transition Breadth and Facile Autonomous Self‐Healing over a Broad Composition Range
Authors: Wang Tong , Young Wenshiue O. , Suazo Mathew J. , Peera Asghar , Carter Matthew C. D. , Yeung Kimy , Li Li , Torkelson John M.
Published: August 2024

Statistical copolymers are commercially important because their properties can be tuned by comonomer selection and composition. Rubbery‐state styrene (S)/n‐butyl acrylate (nBA) copolymers have previously been reported to exhibit facile, autonomous self‐healing over a narrow composition band (47/53 to 53/47 mol%). The need for a narrow composition band is explained by alternating comonomer sequences that accommodate interchain secondary bonding. It is hypothesized that copolymers that achieve interchain secondary bonding without alternating sequences can exhibit facile self‐healing over a broad composition range. 2‐ethylhexyl acrylate (EHA) is identified as yielding sequence‐independent secondary bonding interactions. For these interactions it is tested experimentally by glass transition breadth in rubbery‐state S/EHA copolymers, with S/n‐hexyl acrylate (nHA) and S/nBA copolymers as controls. The n‐alkyl acrylate random copolymers exhibit enhanced glass transition breadths over narrow composition bands that correspond to autonomous self‐healing. In contrast, S/EHA copolymers exhibit much greater glass transition breadths than S/nHA and S/nBA copolymers at all compositions tested as well as self‐healing of damage over a broad composition range with full tensile‐property recovery, often in 3–10 h. Characterization of glass transition breadth may serve as a simple screening tool for identifying copolymers that exhibit broad‐composition‐range, facile, autonomous self‐healing and contribute to polymer resilience and sustainability.
Downregulation of C1R promotes hepatocellular carcinoma development by activating HIF‐1α‐regulated glycolysis
Authors: Ma Yuying , Wang Yuehua , Tuo Peng , Meng Zhongji , Jiang Bin , Yuan Yahong , Ding Yan , Naeem Abid , Guo Xingrong , Wang Xiaoli
Published: August 2024

C1R has been identified to have a distinct function in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma that goes beyond its role in the complement system. However, it is currently unknown whether C1R is involved in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC tissues were used to examine C1R expression in relation to clinical and pathological factors. Malignant characteristics of HCC cells were assessed through in vitro and in vivo experiments. The mechanism underlying the role of C1R in HCC was explored through RNA‐seq, methylation‐specific PCR, immuno‐precipitation, and dual‐luciferase reporter assays. This study found that the expression of C1R decreased as the malignancy of HCC increased and was associated with poor prognosis. C1R promoter was highly methylated through DNMT1 and DNMT3a, resulting in a decrease in C1R expression. Downregulation of C1R expression resulted in heightened malignant characteristics of HCC cells through the activation of HIF‐1α‐mediated glycolysis. Additionally, decreased C1R expression was found to promote xenograft tumor formation. We found that C‐reactive protein (CRP) binds to C1R, and the free CRP activates the NF‐κB signaling pathway, which in turn boosts the expression of HIF‐1α. This increase in HIF‐1α leads to higher glycolysis levels, ultimately promoting aggressive behavior in HCC. Methylation of the C1R promoter region results in the downregulation of C1R expression in HCC. C1R inhibits aggressive behavior in HCC in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting HIF‐1α‐regulated glycolysis. These findings indicate that C1R acts as a tumor suppressor gene during HCC progression, opening up new possibilities for innovative therapeutic approaches.
Oscillatory hypoxia induced gene expression predicts low survival in human breast cancer patients
Authors: Suhail Yasir , Liu Yamin , Du Wenqiang , Afzal Junaid , Qiu Xihua , Atiq Amina , Vera‐Licona Paola , Agmon Eran , Kshitiz
Published: August 2024

Hypoxia is one of the key factors in the tumor microenvironment regulating nearly all steps in the metastatic cascade in many cancers, including in breast cancer. The hypoxic regions can however be dynamic with the availability of oxygen fluctuating or oscillating. The canonical response to hypoxia is relayed by transcription factor Hypoxia‐Inducible Factor 1 (HIF‐1), which is stabilized in hypoxia and acts as the master regulator of a large number of downstream genes. However, HIF‐1 transcriptional activity can also fluctuate either due to unstable hypoxia, or by lactate mediated noncanonical degradation of HIF‐1. Our understanding of how oscillatory hypoxia or HIF‐1 activity specifically influences cancer malignancy is very limited. Here, using MDA‐MB‐231 cells as a model of triple negative breast cancer characterized by severe hypoxia, we measured the gene expression changes induced specifically by oscillatory hypoxia. We found that oscillatory hypoxia can specifically regulate gene expression differently, and at times opposite to stable hypoxia. Using the Cancer Genome Atlas RNAseq data of human cancer samples, we show that the oscillatory specific gene expression signature in MDA‐MB‐231 is enriched in most human cancers, and prognosticates low survival in breast cancer patients. In particular, we found that oscillatory hypoxia, unlike stable hypoxia, induces unfolded protein folding response in cells resulting in gene expression predicting reduced survival.
Grants seek to boost veteran mental health through housing
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: August 2024

The Cigna Group Foundation last week announced the launch of a $9 million grant program for nonprofit groups that work with military veterans and approach housing stability as the initial focus of an effort to improve veteran mental health.
A blow‐up result of a nonlinear viscoelastic wave equations system with variable dampings and sources
Authors: Laribi Imene , Krelifa Ali , Zitouni Salah , Ouchenane Djamel , Boulaaras Salah
Published: August 2024

This quest paper covers the most important topic in the field of mechanics. It is the nonlinear viscoelastic wave equations with variable degenerate damping and sources acting in both equations. We seek to prove that this system has no solution with positive initial energy. So, to establish our goal, we utilize the methods and techniques used by Said‐Houari in (J. Nonlinear. Differ. Equ. Appl, vol. 18, 2011, pp. 659‐684.).
Enhancing mechanical and tribological performance of hybrid composites: An experimental study utilizing response surface methodology and firefly algorithm
Authors: Dash Soumya , Satpathy Mantra Prasad , Routara Bharat Chandra , Pati Pravat Ranjan , Gantayat Subhra
Published: August 2024

This study emphasizes the significance of stacking sequence and hybridization of glass, carbon, kevlar and basalt fibers to enhance the mechanical characteristics and the overall wear response of polymer composites. The carbon layer on the outside of the composite exhibited higher ultimate tensile and flexural strengths. The abrasive wear of fabricated hybrid composites is also explored by performing experiments using Box–Behnken design approach. The pin‐on‐disc tester is utilized to do the wear test by varying composite type, sliding distance, and sliding velocity, with specific wear rate (SWR) serving as the response parameter. Regression analysis is performed to predict SWR using control and response parameters derived from experimentation. A novel firefly algorithm technique is adopted to determine the optimal process parameter combination. By utilizing optimized parameters (430 m, 10.5 m/s, and the CKBG4BKC stacking sequence), the SWR is considerably reduced to 16.82 × 10−5 mm3/Nm. Scanning electron microscopy on the worn‐out wear surface reveals enhanced interfacial bonding, fiber breakage and plowing as the fundamental wear mechanism. This work provides insight into hybrid composites for constructing aircraft and automobile body structures, where they provide an optimal blend of strength, sustainability, and structural performance.

Highlights

Hybrid composite: Stacking sequence impacts on mechanical and abrasive wear.

Box–Behnken design: Applied on stacking order, sliding distance and velocity.

Utilizing metaheuristic firefly algorithm to enhance specific wear results.

Optimal parameters: 430 m, 10.5 m/s, and CKBG4BKC stacking sequence.

Lightweight, high‐strength, cost‐effective, and sustainable hybrid composites.
A Bimetallic Nanomodulator to Reverse Immunosuppression via Sonodynamic‐Ferroptosis and Lactate Metabolism Modulation
Authors: Deng Xi , Zhu Yutong , Dai Zideng , Liu Qing , Song Ze , Liu Tianzhi , Huang Yuefeng , Chen Hangrong
Published: August 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) responds poorly to immunotherapy due to insufficient immunogenicity and highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, an intelligent calcium/cobalt‐based nanomodulator (Ca,Co)CO3‐LND‐TCPP@F127‐TA (abbreviated as CCLT@FT) is developed to act as a sonodynamic‐ferroptosis inducer and metabolic immunoadjuvant to enhance anti‐tumor immunotherapy. More details, simultaneous reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and glutathione (GSH) depletion can be achieved due to the existence of Co2+/Co3+ redox couple in CCLT@FT. Meanwhile, mitochondrial Ca2+ overload and tetrakis(4‐carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (TCPP)‐mediated sonodynamic therapy (SDT) further amplify the oxidative stress and promote ferroptosis in tumor cells. More impressively, CCLT@FT can modulate lactate metabolism by doping with cobalt and loading with lonidamine (LND, an inhibitor of MCT4), thereby reversing the high‐lactate immunosuppressive TME. Furthermore, the combination with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy is found to achieve superior anti‐tumor immunity, which in turn promotes ferroptosis of tumor cells by downregulating SLC7A11 protein, ultimately creating a “cycle” therapy. Overall, this work demonstrates a novel strategy for enhancing anti‐tumor immunotherapy based on a closed‐loop enhancement therapeutic route between CCLT@FT inducing ferroptosis/lactate metabolism modulation and ICB therapy, providing an alternative and important reference for effective immunotherapy of TNBC.
Multifunctional Bone Regeneration Membrane with Flexibility, Electrical Stimulation Activity and Osteoinductive Activity
Authors: Zhang Shihao , Huang Lei , Bian Mengxuan , Xiao Lan , Zhou Dong , Tao Ziwei , Zhao Zheng , Zhang Jian , Jiang Li‐Bo , Li Yulin
Published: August 2024

The use of membrane‐based guided bone regeneration techniques has great potential for single‐stage reconstruction of critical‐sized bone defects. Here, a multifunctional bone regeneration membrane combining flexible elasticity, electrical stimulation (ES) and osteoinductive activity is developed by in situ doping of MXene 2D nanomaterials with conductive functionality and β‐TCP particles into a Poly(lactic acid‐carbonate (PDT) composite nano‐absorbable membrane (P/T/MXene) via electrostatic spinning technique. The composite membrane has good feasibility due to its temperature sensitivity, elastic memory capacity, coordinated degradation profile and easy preparation process. In vitro experiments showed the P/T/MXene membrane effectively promoted the recruitment and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) under ES and enhanced the angiogenic capacity of endothelial cells, which synergistically promoted bone regeneration through neovascularization. In addition, an in vivo rat model of cranial bone defects further confirmed the bone regeneration efficacy of the P/T/MXene membrane. In conclusion, the developed P/T/MXene membrane can effectively promote bone regeneration through their synergistic multifunctional effects, suggesting the membranes have great potential for guiding tissue regeneration and providing guidance for the biomaterials design.
Amyand's hernia: Cause of inguinal swelling
Authors: Vasin Dragan , Vukovic Goran , Mijovic Ksenija , Pavlovic Aleksandar , Miskovic Bojana , Maricic Bojana , Doklestic Krstina , Masulovic Dragan
Published: August 2024

Amyand's hernia is a condition where the vermiform appendix is contained within an inguinal hernia sac. An inguinal hernia with an appendix in the hernia sac is extremely rare and almost exclusively occurs on the right side. The mechanism of developing appendicitis with hernia is most likely the compression of the appendix at the level of the neck of the sac or due to impaired vascular supply leading to infection. Despite technological advances in radiology modalities, the preoperative diagnosis of and hernia is challenging: the role of abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography is very important and is essential in planning surgical management and approaches. In our case, we made a rare preoperative diagnosis of Amyand's hernia using ultrasound showing a typical appearance only without wall hyperemia probably due to vascular compression of the inguinal ring, which was confirmed by CT. CT is more sensitive to the detection of radiological signs of appendiceal inflammation and perforation in the hernia sac and is most often used in the case of an inconclusive ultrasound findings. Due to the prompt radiological diagnosis of acute appendicitis in the hernia sac provided by ultrasound, our patient underwent laparoscopic appendectomy.
Extraction, Modification of Radix Paeoniae Alba Starch and Adsorption Application
Authors: Liu Xueli , Wang Lanlan , Zhu Chunfeng
Published: August 2024

Radix Paeoniae Alba is an important plant resource and valuable tonic in traditional Chinese medicine. The radix of Radix Paeoniae Alba is rich in starch. There are few reports of Radix Paeoniae Alba starch. In present study, the Radix Paeoniae Alba starch is extracted, citrate esterified starches are prepared, the starch‐based hydrogels are synthesized, and adsorptive properties are investigated. The investigation suggests that Radix Paeoniae Alba starch‐based adsorbent is promising as an efficient and sustainable adsorbent for copper ions and methylene blue removal; therefore, Radix Paeoniae Alba starch has an appealing application prospect in adsorption for scavenging metal ions and dyes from real complex waste liquid.
Uterine intussusception in a pet rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Berry Alexandra , Sladakovic Izidora
Published: August 2024

Uterine intussusception is defined as the uterus telescoping onto itself. This condition has been rarely described in animals, and when it occurs, is often associated with post‐partum or pregnant animals. This case report describes the diagnosis and treatment of a uterine horn intussusception in a 1‐year 7‐month‐old, female, entire nulliparous pet rat (Rattus norvegicus). The rat presented for a 1‐day history of sanguineous vaginal discharge. An exploratory laparotomy was performed, and the rat was diagnosed with a firm, off‐white approximately 1 cm cervical mass and a left uterine horn intussusception. An ovariohysterectomy was performed for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes, and the mass was diagnosed as a benign endometrial stromal polyp on histopathology. Ten days post‐operative, the surgical incision developed a bacterial infection, which resolved with a course of amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. No further post‐operative complications occurred. The rat continues to do well 10 months after surgery.
Fluoride geochemistry in groundwater at regulated industrial sites
Authors: Fowler Andrew , Goulding Nigel , Law Shanna
Published: August 2024

Few studies apply geochemical concepts governing fluoride fate and transport in natural waters to geochemical conditions at contaminated industrial sites. This has negative implications for designing sampling and compliance monitoring programs and informing remediation decision‐making. We compiled geochemical data for 566 groundwater samples from industrial waste streams associated with elevated fluoride and that span a range of geochemical conditions, including alkaline spent potliner, near‐neutral pH coal combustion, and acidic gypsum stack impoundments. Like natural systems, elevated fluoride (hundreds to thousands of ppm) exists at the pH extremes and is generally tens of ppm at near‐neutral pH conditions. Geochemical models identify pH‐dependent fluoride complexation at low pH and carbonate stability at high pH as dominant processes controlling fluoride mobility. Limitations in available thermochemical, kinetic rate, and adsorption/desorption data and lack of complete analyses present uncertainties in quantitative models used to assess fluoride mobility at industrial sites.

Practitioner Points

Geochemical fundamentals of fluoride fate and transport in groundwater are communicated for environmental practitioners.

Fluoride is a reactive constituent in groundwater, and factors that govern attenuation are identified.

Geochemical models are useful for identifying fluoride attenuation processes, but quantitative use is limited by thermodynamic data uncertainties.
Thermal process computing in nanofluid using dissipation and squeezing constraints
Authors: Mishra Nidhish Kumar , Adnan  , Ashraf Waqas , Mir Ahmed , Kolsi Lioua
Published: August 2024

The investigation of thermal mechanisms in traditional as well as advanced fluid phases grabbed huge attention of the engineers around the globe. These fluids have a bright future in numerous fields including but not restricted to chemical, applied thermal, and heat transfer applications. Therefore, the present analysis emphasized on the development and investigation of a new nanofluid model under physical constraints like viscous dissipation, squeezing, and nanoparticle concentration effects. The fourth‐order heat transfer model is formulated using new thermophysical properties of tetra nanofluids and similar transformative functions. Then, the model was analyzed numerically and a deep discussion of the results was provided. It is noticed that the motion reduced near the bottom wall rapidly when the tetra nanoparticles concentration is taken from to and inward the sheet movement enhanced it. The fluid motion can be augmented by accelerating the top sheet in an outward direction by keeping . Moreover, the shear drag increased in the range of to and the heat transfer rate enhanced from to and to when and increased.
Residues of TRPM8 at the Lipid-Water-Interface have Coevolved with Cholesterol Interaction and are Relevant for Diverse Health Disorders
Authors: Shikha Deep , Dalai Ritesh , Kumar Shamit , Goswami Chandan
Published: August 2024

TRPM8 is a non-selective cation channel that is expressed in several tissues and cells and also has a unique property to be activated by low-temperature. In this work, we have analyzed the conservation of amino acids that are present in the lipid-water-interface (LWI) region of TRPM8, the region which experiences a microenvironment near the membrane surface. We demonstrate that the amino acids present in the LWI region are more conserved than the transmembrane or even full-length TRPM8, suggesting strong selection pressure in these residues. TRPM8 also has several conserved cholesterol-binding motifs where cholesterol can bind in different modes and energies. We suggest that mutations and/or physiological conditions can potentially alter these TRPM8-cholesterol complexes and can lead to physiological disorders or even apparently irreversible diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration.

Graphical abstract
Diagnostic performance of liver stiffness as marker of liver involvement in systemic immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis
Authors: Brunger Anne F. , Tingen Hendrea S.A. , Bijzet Johan , van Rheenen Ronald , Blokzijl Hans , Roeloffzen Wilfried W. H. , Houwerzijl Ewout J. , Muntinghe Friso L. H. , Slart Riemer H. J. A. , Gans Reinold O. B. , Kimmich Christoph , Hazenberg Bouke P. C. , Nienhuis Hans L. A.
Published: August 2024

Objective: To investigate the diagnostic performance of liver stiffness for detecting liver involvement in immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis. Methods: Liver stiffness was measured using transient elastography in 71 patients with systemic AL amyloidosis and 18 patients with wild type transthyretin (ATTRwt) amyloidosis with cardiomyopathy. Both non-invasive consensus criteria and serum amyloid P component (SAP) scintigraphy were used as substitute standards instead of liver biopsy for establishing liver involvement. Results: Liver stiffness was higher in AL amyloidosis patients with liver involvement than in those without: this was observed using both consensus criteria (median 14.4 kPa vs. 8.1 kPa;p = 0.001) and SAP scintigraphy (median 20.9 kPa vs. 6.2 kPa;p < 0.001). Liver stiffness was also higher in AL amyloidosis patients with liver involvement compared to AL and ATTRwt amyloidosis patients with cardiac involvement. Based on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves a cut-off value of 14.4 kPa for stiffness was optimal to indicate liver involvement, providing sensitivity and specificity of 50% and 74%, respectively, using the consensus criteria and 63% and 90%, respectively, using SAP scintigraphy as standard. Conclusion: Liver stiffness is a promising tool to establish liver involvement in AL amyloidosis having potential to become part of updated criteria for liver involvement.
Phenotypic variability of Montastraea cavernosa and Porites astreoides along a depth gradient from shallow to mesophotic reefs in the Cayman Islands
Authors: Doherty Matthew L. , Chequer Alex D. , Mass Tali , Goodbody-Gringley Gretchen
Published: August 2024

Phenotypic variability is the ability of the same species to express different phenotypes under different environmental conditions. Several coral species that exist along a broad depth distribution have been shown to differ in skeletal morphology and nutrient acquisition at different depths, which has been attributed to variability in response to differing levels of light availability. This study examined the phenotypic variability of two common depth generalist corals, Montastraea cavernosa and Porites astreoides, along a gradient from 10 to 50 m in the Cayman Islands, by examining changes in skeletal morphology, photophysiology, symbiont cell density, and chlorophyll concentration. Skeletal features of M. cavernosa were found to increase in size from 10 to 30 m, but returned to smaller sizes from 30 to 50 m, while P. astreoides skeletal features continued to increase in size from 10 to 40 m. No differences were observed in either symbiont density or chlorophyll concentration across depths for either species. However, all photophysiological parameters exhibited significant depth-dependent variations in both species, revealing adaptive strategies to different light environments. These results suggest that both species have high variability in response to depth. Patterns of skeletal morphology and photophysiology, however, suggest that M. cavernosa may be more variable in regulating photosynthetic efficiency compared to P. astreoides, which likely facilitates the broader depth distribution of this species.
Priorisierte Terminvergabe bei Neuvorstellungen: Was ist wirklich entscheidend?
Authors: Krämer Stefan , Flöge A. , Handt S. , Juzek-Küpper F. , Vogt K. , Ullmann J. , Rauen T.
Published: August 2024

Hintergrund

Die zeitnahe Terminvergabe für Neuvorstellungen ist eine tägliche Herausforderung in der rheumatologischen Praxis, die von digitalen Lösungen unterstützt werden kann. Es stellt sich die Frage nach einer möglichst einfachen und effektiven Methode der Terminpriorisierung.

Methoden

Mithilfe eines Anmeldeformulars für Neuvorstellungen wurden standardisiert Symptome und Laborbefunde erfasst. Die Terminvergabe erfolgte nach fachärztlicher Sichtung dieser Informationen in 3 Kategorien: (a) < 6 Wochen, (b) 6 Wochen bis 3 Monate und (c) > 3 Monate. Die Wartezeiten zwischen dem Zeitpunkt der Anmeldung und dem Vorstellungstermin wurden berechnet und verglichen zwischen Patienten mit und ohne Diagnose einer entzündlich-rheumatischen Erkrankung (ERE). Zusätzlich wurde ein Entscheidungsbaum, eine Methode aus dem Bereich des überwachten Lernens innerhalb der künstlichen Intelligenz (KI), erstellt und die resultierende Klassifikation bezüglich Trefferrate und berechneter Wartezeitersparnis verglichen.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt wurden 800 Fälle (darunter 555 Frauen [69,4 %], medianes Alter 53 Jahre [IQA 39–63]) zwischen 2020 und 2023 ausgewertet. Eine ERE konnte in 409 (51,1 %) Fällen bestätigt werden mit einer Wartezeit von 58 vs. 93 Tagen bei Non-ERE-Fällen (−38 %, p < 0,01). Eine KI-Stratifizierung ergab eine Trefferrate von 67 % bezüglich einer ERE und eine prognostizierte Einsparung von 19 % Wartezeit. Die Trefferrate stieg hierbei auf 78 % mit einer Zeitersparnis für ERE-Fälle um bis zu 31 %, wenn grundlegende Laborergebnisse bekannt waren. Andererseits ergaben vereinfachte Algorithmen z. B. durch eine reine Laborwert-basierte Stratifizierung eine niedrigere Trefferrate und Zeitersparnis.

Schlussfolgerung

Die fachärztliche Terminzuweisung ist effektiv und verkürzt die Terminwartezeit für Patienten mit ERE signifikant. Eine automatisierte Kategorisierung kann unter Berücksichtigung vollständiger Laborwerte mit reduzierter Sensitivität zu einer Verkürzung der Terminwartezeit führen.
Prediction of neonatal outcomes using gestational age vs ACOG definitions of maternal disease severity in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
Authors: Hauptman Isabella , Gill Kevin S. , Lim Tiffany , Mack Wendy J. , Wilson Melissa L.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy cause significant neonatal complications. Disease severity is often used to predict neonatal outcomes, however gestational age (GA) at delivery may be a better predictor. We aimed to assess whether disease severity or GA was more predictive of adverse neonatal outcomes.

Methods

We included 165 participants with confirmed HELLP syndrome or severe preeclampsia (sPE). Two predictive models were constructed to assess the ability of disease severity compared to GA to predict a composite adverse neonatal outcome. The composite outcome included low birth weight, SGA, IUGR, Apgar score, and neonatal death.

Results

Using severity as a predictor of binary neonatal outcome had an AUC of 0.73 (0.65–0.81), with a sensitivity (SE) of 70.3% and a specificity (SP) of 64.4%. For GA, we observed an AUC of 0.82 (0.75–0.89), with a SE of 75.7% and a SP of 76.7%.

Conclusion

For the composite neonatal outcome, GA was a better predictor than ACOG diagnosis (severity). This observation underscores the need for further research to validate these findings in larger cohorts and to determine their applicability to maternal outcomes.
Association between pregnancy-related changes in serum creatinine and preeclampsia diagnosis
Authors: Nguyen Lynsa M. , Crants Shelby A. , Giordano Christin M. , Zuckerwise Lisa C. , Grace Matthew R.
Published: August 2024

Background

Preeclampsia is a leading cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, affecting 2–8% of all pregnancies. Typically, the increased glomerular filtration rate of pregnancy results in a decrease in serum creatinine. It is unknown if women without the expected decrease in serum creatinine during pregnancy are more likely to be diagnosed with preeclampsia.

Objective

We sought to determine if the absence of a pregnancy-related decrease in serum creatinine was associated with the development of preeclampsia in patients deemed to be at high risk for developing preeclampsia. We hypothesized that the absence of the expected decrease in serum creatinine may be a marker of impaired renal function and therefore may be associated with increased risk of preeclampsia in this cohort.

Study design

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of deliveries between November 2, 2017 and June 30, 2020 at a single institution. Pregnancies were included if a baseline serum creatinine (measured between one year prior to conception through 6 weeks gestation), and another serum creatinine value prior to 20 weeks of gestation were measured. Decrease in serum creatinine was defined as any decrease (at least 0.01 mg/dL) from baseline. The primary outcome was diagnosis of preeclampsia. Exclusion criteria included fetal anomalies, fetal demise, multiple gestation, or delivery prior to 20 weeks. Bivariable analyses were performed using Chi-square, ANOVA, and Student’s t test. Logistic regression was used to determine odds of developing preeclampsia controlling for confounders.

Results

We identified 392 pregnancies that met inclusion criteria. Preeclampsia was diagnosed in 56 (14.3%) pregnancies. Patients diagnosed with preeclampsia were more likely to have a history of preeclampsia in a prior pregnancy, chronic hypertension (HTN), and diabetes. They were also more likely to have aspirin prescribed in the current pregnancy. Prevalence of advanced maternal age, multiparity, obesity, smoking, history of autoimmune disease, history of CKD, gestational HTN, or multiple pregnancy were not significantly different between patients with and without a diagnosis of preeclampsia. After controlling for confounders, a decrease in serum creatinine from baseline was not significantly associated with a diagnosis of preeclampsia (OR 0.76, CI 0.32–1.78).

Conclusion

After controlling for risk factors associated with preeclampsia, a decrease in serum creatinine from baseline was not significantly associated with a diagnosis of preeclampsia in this high-risk cohort.
A comprehensive review of hybrid AC/DC networks: insights into system planning, energy management, control, and protection
Authors: Abdelwanis Mohamed I. , Elmezain Mohammed I.
Published: August 2024

The introduction of hybrid alternating current (AC)/direct current (DC) distribution networks led to several developments in smart grid and decentralized power system technology. The paper concentrates on several topics related to the operation of hybrid AC/DC networks. Such as optimization methods, control strategies, energy management, protection issues, and proposed solutions. The implementation of neural network optimization methods has great importance for the successful integration of multiple energy sources, dynamic energy management, establishment of system stability and reliability, power distribution optimization, management of energy storage, and online fault detection and diagnosis in hybrid networks like the hybrid AC–DC microgrids (MG). Taking advantage of renewable energy generation and cost-cutting through the neural network optimization technique holds the key to these progressions. Besides identifying the challenges in the operation of a hybrid system, the paper also compares this system to conventional MGs and shows the benefits of this type of system over different MG structures. This review compares the different topologies, particularly looking at the AC–DC coupled hybrid MGs, and shows the important role of the interlinking of converters that are used for efficient transmission between AC and DC MGs and generally used to implement the different control and optimization techniques. Overall, this review paper can be regarded as a reference, pointing out the pros and cons of integrating hybrid AC/DC distribution networks for future study and improvement paths in this developing area.
Supporting follow-up care in colorectal cancer patients: first experiences with the Assessment of Burden of ColoRectal Cancer (ABCRC)-tool
Authors: Thomassen Britt J. M. , Gielen Anke H. C. , Baak Jasmijn , Sosef Meindert , Ancion Ester , Gielen Christel M. J. , Gidding-Slok Annerika H. M. , Breukink Stephanie O. , Kimman Merel L.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The Assessment of Burden of ColoRectal Cancer (ABCRC)-tool is a unique tool that includes a PROM focused on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional outcomes and lifestyle assessment. Furthermore, it provides visualization of results and treatment advice. The tool aims to support follow-up consultations of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the first experiences of patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) with the ABCRC-tool.

Methods

The ABCRC-tool was implemented in two Dutch hospitals and used by 25 patients and 5 HCPs during follow-up care. Consultations were audio-recorded and their content was analyzed independently by two researchers. Semi-structured interviews with patients and HCPs were conducted after the consultation. Interviews focused on the overall experience with the tool, ease of use, interpretation of the PROM and the visualized results and on the added value of the tool.

Results

Audio recording revealed that multiple topics, relevant to patients, were discussed during consultations with the ABCRC-tool. Patients and HCPs appreciated the ABCRC-tool as it added structure to the consultation, was helpful in the preparation of consultations and provided useful and convenient treatment options. The tool was easy to use, and the visualization was clear and informative. HCPs suggested that the tool is likely to be most relevant for patients in the first year of follow-up.

Conclusions

This study implies that the ABCRC-tool is of added value for patients and their HCPs. Future research should focus on the evaluation of broad implementation, across a wide range of CRC patients.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

The ABCRC-tool is a valid tool to support CRC survivors and HCPs to monitor and visualize experienced burden of disease and lifestyle parameters in order to optimize personalized care.
Obicetrapib—the Rebirth of CETP Inhibitors?
Authors: Chang Bliss , Laffin Luke J. , Sarraju Ashish , Nissen Steven E.
Published: August 2024

Purpose of Review

To provide perspective on the current development status, and potential future role, of obicetrapib, a third-generation cholesterylester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor. Obicetrapib has received recent attention following positive Phase II clinical trial data and initiation of Phase III trials for the treatment of dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

Recent Findings

The ROSE and ROSE2 trials are Phase II studies that examined the lipid lowering effects of obicetrapib in patients on pre-existing high-intensity statin therapy. Obicetrapib significantly reduced key dyslipidemia biomarkers including low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), Apolipoprotein B (Apo B), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Four phase III clinical trials, including a cardiovascular outcomes trial, are ongoing.

Preliminary data for obicetrapib shows favorable effects on dyslipidemia, which could theoretically lead to a decrease in ASCVD clinical events. Short-term safety data in preliminary studies shows no significant safety signals.