bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stroke in sickle cell patients, epidemiology, pathophysiology, systemic and surgical treatment options and prevention strategies
Authors: Shah Siddharth , Alberts Amelia H. , Ngo Tran B. , Lucke‐Wold Brandon
Published: July 2024

Background

A hereditary haemoglobinopathy known as sickle cell disease (SCD) affects over 100 000 people in the United States severely. Cerebrovascular disease is a prominent consequence of SCD. By the age of 30, 53% of patients have silent cerebral infarcts (SCIs) (a stroke that occurs without any obvious symptoms because it damages a small part of the brain that isn't responsible for any essential functions), and by the age of 40, 3.8% have overt strokes.

Main body

The multidimensional burden of cerebrovascular illness in SCD is reviewed in detail in this article, which includes both clinical strokes and the frequently asymptomatic SCIs. The intricate pathophysiology of SCD and stroke is explored. With SCD, there are currently very few methods for preventing primary and secondary stroke; the most common ones are hydroxyurea and blood transfusion. Nevertheless, not enough research has been done on the possible contributions of anticoagulation and aspirin to strokes linked to SCD. Promising evidence is also highlighted in the study, suggesting that new drugs intended to treat SCD may be able to alleviate leg ulcers and renal impairment in addition to reducing unusually high transcranial Doppler flow velocity – a crucial component of cerebrovascular events. Given that these novel medications specifically target haemolysis and vaso‐occlusion, the two main causes of strokes in this population, more research is desperately needed to determine whether they are effective in avoiding strokes in people with SCD. The literature review also emphasizes how common healthcare inequities are and how they hinder advancements in SCD research and management in the United States.

Conclusion

To successfully address these inequities, the evaluation recommends more funding for both SCD management and research, as well as for patient and clinician education. This multimodal viewpoint highlights the intricate terrain of cerebrovascular problems associated with SCD and the urgent need for all‐encompassing and fair strategies to improve patient outcomes and advance research.
Temporomandibular disorder pain is associated with increased sick leave and reduced health related quality of life
Authors: Vallin S. , Liv P. , Häggman‐Henrikson B. , Visscher C. M. , Lobbezoo F. , Lövgren A.
Published: July 2024

Background

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are the most common reason for chronic pain in the orofacial area and significantly impact the lives of those affected. The role of lifestyle factors in TMD, however, remains less explored. This cohort study aims to estimate TMD prevalence by addressing potential selection biases and to evaluate the association between TMD and lifestyle factors with a specific focus on sick leave and health related quality of life.

Methods

By linking data on TMD in the general population in Västerbotten, northern Sweden (n = 180,000) to health survey data (n = 120,000), information on sociodemographic factors and quality of life was available for 52,961 individuals (50.6% women) with a mean age of 53 years. We applied inverse probability weighting to adjust for selection bias and Poisson regression to explore associations with TMD.

Results

TMD prevalence was 9.2% during the study period, being higher in women (12.9%) than men (5.4%). Weighting for varying visiting frequencies did not affect TMD prevalence (average difference 0.4% points). Individuals with TMD, especially women, reported more sick leave and use of pain medication, with a significant association between TMD and increased sick leave (prevalence ratio 1.89, 95% CI: 1.78–2.01) among both women and men. In addition, TMD was associated with a lower health related quality of life (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The association of TMD with sick leave highlights the condition's profound impact on the lives of affected individuals. These findings underscore the influence of TMD on work life and the burden of TMD on the societal level.

Significance Statement

The findings provide insight into how TMD affect individuals, by incorporating lifestyle factors, social determinants and the impact of sick leave at a population level. By incorporating these areas into the study of TMD, we can deepen our understanding of how TMD affects individuals' lives. This approach may also create opportunities to develop more comprehensive strategies to address TMD, focusing on broader implications beyond the clinical symptoms.
The Achilles’ heel of the truth bias? High personal stakes reduce vulnerability to false information
Authors: Pantazi Myrto , Klein Olivier , Kissine Mikhail
Published: July 2024

While, by default, people tend to believe communicated content, it is also possible that they become more vigilant when personal stakes increase. A lab (N = 72) and an online (N = 284) experiment show that people make judgements affected by explicitly tagged false information and that they misremember such information as true – a phenomenon dubbed the ‘truth bias’. However, both experiments show that this bias is significantly reduced when personal stakes – instantiated here as a financial incentive – become high. Experiment 2 also shows that personal stakes mitigate the truth bias when they are high at the moment of false information processing, but they cannot reduce belief in false information a posteriori, that is once participants have already processed false information. Experiment 2 also suggests that high stakes reduce belief in false information whether participants’ focus is directed towards making accurate judgements or correctly remembering information truthfulness. We discuss the implications of our findings for models of information validation and interventions against real‐world misinformation.
Prognostic significance of hemorrhage requiring embolization in the setting of previously treated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Systematic review and retrospective cohort
Authors: Karadaghy Omar A. , Peterson Andrew M. , Sawaf Tuleen , Renslo Bryan , Miller Brevin , Virgen Celina , Sykes Kevin J. , Doering Michelle M. , Moran Christopher J. , Ullman Henrik , Peterson Jeremy , Pipkorn Patrik , Bur Andrés M.
Published: July 2024

Background

The management of acute hemorrhage in patients with previously treated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is challenging due to the lack of substantial evidence to guide clinical decision making.

Methods

A systematic review and retrospective chart review were performed to identify patients with a history of HNSCC who underwent either primary or adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) and presented with hemorrhagic complications requiring embolization. Patient characteristics, history, presentation, and outcomes were reviewed.

Results

The systematic review included a total of 182 patients. Heterogeneity existed in outcomes reporting; 1‐year overall survival approached 50%. From the retrospective chart review, 51 patients were included. Median survival time following hemorrhage was 2.2 months (range 1.2–11.4 months). Patients with malignancy at time of hemorrhage were identified as having worse survival.

Conclusions

Acute hemorrhage in patients with a history of previously radiated HNSCC portends a high risk of mortality, with patients with active malignancy representing a worse prognostic group.
Recurrence after primary salivary gland carcinoma: Frequency, survival, and risk factors
Authors: Nachtsheim Lisa , Jansen L. , Shabli S. , Arolt C. , Quaas A. , Klussmann J. P. , Mayer M. , Wolber P.
Published: July 2024

Background

Primary salivary gland carcinomas (SGC) are rare neoplasms that present therapeutic challenges especially in recurrent tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and distribution of tumor recurrence, associated risk factors, and survival.

Methods

This analysis includes data from 318 patients treated for SGC between 1992 and 2020. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify risk factors associated with recurrence.

Results

21.7% of the patients developed recurrent disease after a mean of 38.2 months. In multivariate analysis, positive‐resection margins, vascular invasion, and tumor localization in the submandibular gland and small salivary glands were independent factors for recurrence. The 5‐year overall survival was 67%, the 5‐year disease‐free survival was 54%.

Conclusion

Tumor recurrence in SGC occurred in one out of five patients. In highly aggressive entities and patients with risk factors, treatment intensification should be considered.
Deciphering the impact of STAT3 activation mediated by PTPRT promoter hypermethylation as biomarker of response to paclitaxel‐plus‐cetuximab in patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Cirauqui Beatriz Cirauqui , Peguera Adrià Bernat , Pi‐Sunyer Ariadna Quer , Ferrando‐Díez Angelica , Serrano Jose Luis Ramírez , Viñolas Marta Domenech , García Iris Teruel , García Vanesa Quiroga , Oukadour Imane Chaib , Valencia Andrea González , Vergara Pilar Hernández , de Aguirre Egaña Itziar , Herrero Cristina Queralt , Carbonell Oscar Mesía , Paradís Assumpció López , Esteve Anna , Vila Mireia Margelí , Rosell Rafael , Martínez‐Cardús Anna , Mesía Ricard
Published: July 2024

Background

Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is an aggressive disease with poor prognosis. It is known that the activation of STAT3 signaling pathways promotes the development and progression of this neoplasia and it has been described the role of PTPRT as a negative regulator of STAT3. Then, we have evaluated the impact of them as biomarkers of outcome in a series of patients with recurrent and/or metastatic SCCHN treated with weekly paclitaxel‐plus‐cetuximab (ERBITAX) regimen.

Patients and methods

Between 2008 and 2017, 52 patients with recurrent/metastatic SCCHN were treated with ERBITAX at our center, 34 of whom had available tumor samples. Phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3) protein expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, STAT3 mRNA expression by qPCR, and PTPRT promoter methylation by methylation‐specific PCR. Molecular results were correlated with response rate (RR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

pSTAT3 overexpression was detected in 67% and PTPRT promoter hypermethylation in 41% of tumor samples. PTPRT promoter hypermethylation showed a trend towards an association with lower RR (21% vs. 60%; p = 0.06). A lower RR was also observed in patients with pSTAT3 overexpression (36% vs. 54%) and in those with high STAT3 mRNA levels (43% vs. 64%), but these differences did not reach statistical significance. PTPRT promoter hypermethylation correlated with pSTAT3 overexpression (p = 0.009) but not with STAT3 mRNA overexpression. OS and PFS was shorter in patients with activated STAT3, but the difference did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

Although this was a relatively small retrospective study, it provides preliminary indications of the potential role of the STAT3 pathway on outcome in SCCHN and confirms that PTPRT acts as a negative regulator of STAT3. Our findings warrant investigation in a larger patient cohort to determine if inactivating this pathway through specific targeted treatments could improve outcomes in recurrent/metastatic SCCHN patients.
Photochemical regulatory strategies for nucleic acid function and their biomedical applications
Authors: Hu Menglu , Wang Yihui , Zhou Xiaoming
Published: July 2024

Nucleic acids are not only essential biomolecules that drive critical life processes such as growth, development, reproduction, inheritance, and mutation, but also serve as significant markers for disease diagnosis, pathogen identification, and cancer screening. Nevertheless, several challenges have hindered the widespread use of nucleic acids in biomedicine, such as susceptibility to degradation, limited cellular uptake efficiency, potential toxicity, and uncontrollable activity. Photo‐regulation offers an effective solution to address these challenges. It allows for the precise control of nucleic acid structure and function and enhances the stability and safety of their application in biomedicine. In this review, we systematically review the structural characteristics of the three primary photosensitive groups commonly used in the regulation of nucleic acid molecules (i.e., photocleavable molecules, photoisomerization molecules, and photo‐crosslinking molecules) under light irradiation. Subsequently, recent research advances in the development and application of photo‐modulation strategies based on these photosensitive molecules in antisense oligonucleotides, RNA interference, nucleic acid amplification, and CRISPR/Cas systems are outlined. Finally, we discuss the challenges faced in the widespread application of these photo‐regulatory strategies and outline potential future directions for their development.
Artificial intelligence to predict pre‐clinical dental student academic performance based on pre‐university results: A preliminary study
Authors: Lestari Widya , Abdullah Adilah S. , Amin Afifah M. A. , Nurfaridah  , Sukotjo Cortino , Ismail Azlini , Ibrahim Mohamad Shafiq Mohd , Insani Nashuha , Utomo Chandra P.
Published: July 2024

Purpose/Objectives

Admission into dental school involves selecting applicants for successful completion of the course. This study aimed to predict the academic performance of Kulliyyah of Dentistry, International Islamic University Malaysia pre‐clinical dental students based on admission results using artificial intelligence machine learning (ML) models, and Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC).

Methods

ML algorithms logistic regression (LR), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM) models were applied. Academic performance prediction in pre‐clinical years was made using three input parameters: age during admission, pre‐university Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), and total matriculation semester. PCC was deployed to identify the correlation between pre‐university CGPA and dental school grades. The proposed models’ classification accuracy ranged from 29% to 57%, ranked from highest to lowest as follows: RF, SVM, DT, and LR. Pre‐university CGPA was shown to be predictive of dental students’ academic performance; however, alone they did not yield optimal outcomes. RF was the most precise algorithm for predicting grades A, B, and C, followed by LR, DT, and SVM. In forecasting failure, LR predicted three grades with the highest recall, SVM predicted two grades, and DT predicted one. RF performance was insignificant.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrated the application of ML algorithms and PCC to predict dental students' academic performance. However, it was limited by several factors. Each algorithm has unique performance qualities, and trade‐offs between different performance metrics may be necessary. No definitive model stood out as the best algorithm for predicting student academic success in this study.
Response of rice yield, grain quality to chilling at grain filling stages
Authors: Guo Erjing , Wang Lizhi , Shi Yanying , Jiang Shukun , Cheng Xue , Chen Xi , Ma Haoyu , Wan Nenhan , Bai Fan , Zhang Zhentao , Zhang Tianyi , Li Tao , Yang Xiaoguang
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

This study aims to quantify the impacts of chilling at the grain filling stage on rice yield and grain quality. A factorial experiment with four levels of temperature and duration of chilling treatments at the early and late grain filling stages was conducted in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

RESULTS

Per 10 °C·day increase in the accumulated cooling degree day at the early and late grain filling stages, the rice emergence–maturity duration was delayed by 0.8% (0.6%) and rice yield decreased by 2.2% (1.7%). Chilling at the early grain filling stage decreased the rice heading rate, while chilling at the late grain filling stage increased rice amylose but decreased protein content. For chilling treatment at the early grain filling stage, rice yield and grain quality were mainly correlated with seed‐setting rate, whereas for chilling treatment at the late grain filling stage the rice yield and grain quality were mainly correlated with 1000‐grain weight.

CONCLUSION

This study improved the understanding of how chilling at the grain filling stages affects rice phenology, yield and grain quality, providing a theoretical basis for maintaining rice yield while ensuring grain quality. The results could be used to guide the rice‐growing community in combating chilling at grain filling stages. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Isolation, identification, and chelation mechanism of ferrous‐chelating peptide from peanut protein hydrolysate
Authors: Bu Guanhao , Ti Guanghui , Zhao Xiaoling , Duan Xiaojie
Published: July 2024

Background

Peanut peptides can chelate iron but their chelation mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to separate peanut ferrous‐chelating peptides and explore the chelation mechanism of peanut peptides with iron.

Results

Peanut peptide component F‐122, which had a higher chelation rate, was separated using ultrafiltration, gel filtration chromatography, and ion exchange chromatography, achieving a ferrous chelation rate of 90.7%. Six peptide segments were screened and their amino acid sequences were identified by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Spectral analysis confirmed that the chelation between peanut peptides and ferrous ions occurred and a new substance was formed. Molecular docking simulation indicated that the amino acids in peanut peptides involved in the chelating reaction were glutamic acid, arginine, glycine, threonine, phenylalanine, and lysine. The binding sites included the main chain oxygen atom, side chain oxygen atom, and carboxyl oxygen atom of amino acid.

Conclusion

The isolated peanut peptide had a higher ferrous‐chelation rate. The chelating mechanism of peanut peptide with ferrous ion was elucidated. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of new peptide‐ferrous preparations. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Making friends with tourists before the group tour: A study of guide‐tourist pre‐tour interactions based on the social situation framework
Authors: Hu Changwei (Aiway) , Hu Xingbao (Simon) , Liu Hongbo (Daisy)
Published: July 2024

Tour guides play a vital role in shaping service quality, destination image, and relationships with tourists. However, most research on guide‐tourist interactions focuses exclusively on the interactions during the tour, overlooking pre‐tour interactions. Using thematic content analysis, and based on the social situation framework, this study investigates pre‐tour interactions from the tour guide's perspective of guided group tours. The results unravel that pre‐tour interactions are motivated by both the intrinsic and extrinsic goals of tour guides, who act as not only hosts, but also travel stewards, “virtual stage” constructors, and even tourists' friends. The interactions mostly surround service promises, emotional care, and rapport building, in addition to information exchange. Furthermore, a seven‐step behavioral sequence underlying the interactions and six paramount hindrances were identified. This research contributes to the existing literature on host‐guest interactions by generating granular and holistic insights into pre‐tour interactions and offering valuable guidance for optimizing guide services.
Comparison of four ventilation tubes commonly used in the pediatric population: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Morrissette Margareta , Ben‐Dov Tom , Santacatterina Michele , Catháin Éadaoin Ó. , April Max M.
Published: July 2024

Objective

To assess differences in otorrhea, tympanic membrane perforation, and time to extrusion in children receiving one of four commonly used, short‐term ventilation tubes for the first time.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of 2 years of postoperative follow‐up to analyze patient outcomes after insertion of either a Paparella type‐I Activent, Armstrong Beveled, Modified Armstrong, or Armstrong Microgel ventilation tube. Incidence of complications was determined by reviewing provider notes. Adjusted multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine odds ratios of complications among the four tube types.

Results

A total of 387 patients were reviewed. The mean age was 2.4 years and 35.9% were female. Armstrong beveled tubes had the highest odds of otorrhea. Paparella type‐I tube had the shortest time to extrusion of about 9 months, while Armstrong Beveled had the longest, at almost 19 months. When evaluating episodes of otorrhea each child experienced on average, per month, Armstrong beveled tubes had the highest monthly rate of otorrhea and Paparella type‐I the least. No significant differences were found regarding tympanic membrane perforation.

Conclusions

This retrospective chart review showed that no tube was clinically superior across all complications. The findings from this study may give otolaryngologists an opportunity to consider choosing a specific type of tube according to the clinical situation. The large variations in extrusion times should be considered in terms of patient age, seasonality, and desired duration of tube placement.

Level of Evidence

4.
CW‐Seeded Parametric Combs with Quantum‐Limited Phase Noise
Authors: Wang Jue , Shi Haosen , Steinmeyer Günter , Cai Yu , Wang Siyi , Chen Wenbin , Gu Chenglin , Fan Jintao , Hu Minglie
Published: July 2024

Optical frequency combs have revolutionized frequency metrology and spectroscopic measurements, enabling the most precise measurements of all physical quantities. However, precision frequency metrology heavily relies on mode‐locked laser combs, which are only directly available for a few selected near‐infrared wavelength ranges. Recently, a strong tendency emerged for combs in the mid‐infrared molecular fingerprint region. To this end, several methods for wavelength conversion have been proposed and demonstrated, which nevertheless cost a degradation of coherence properties. Here a first approach is presented toward measuring resulting phase noise fluctuations, exploiting the temporal resolution of the dispersive temporal interferometry (DTI) technique for experimentally unveiling the carrier‐envelope phase dynamics of a cw‐seeded femtosecond optical parametric amplifier (OPA). Particularly, it is experimentally demonstrated for the first time that unexpectedly low seed power levels suffice to exceed vacuum fluctuations by more than an order of magnitude, resulting in pulse‐to‐pulse phase fluctuations of 82 mrad at rather moderate cw seed levels of 8 mW. Additionally, a formula is provided that allows exact prediction of the experimentally observed noise levels. This study therefore provides new insight into the role of vacuum fluctuations in OPAs, which open up an avenue for coherent dual‐comb systems in the mid‐infrared and beyond.
Experimental Evidence for Thermally Enhanced Energy Transfer in Yb3+/Tm3+ Codoped Nanocrystals
Authors: Wei Yinghao , Yang Sen , Zhu Kaihang , Gao Linshuo , Wang Liji , Chen Guanying , Li Ai‐Hua
Published: July 2024

Weak luminescence of the small‐sized lanthanide‐doped nanoparticles has limited their applications long. In recent years, there is a growing interest in luminescence thermal enhancement in small‐sized upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs). The mitigation of surface quenching effects and the improvement of energy transfer (ET) are two convincing explanations for this phenomenon. A systematical investigation on the luminescence dynamics of Yb3+ is implemented. ET rate and then the proportion of ET increases greatly with rising temperatures in Yb3+/Tm3+ codoped system, while an alternative trend can be summarized in Yb3+/Er3+ one. Based on these findings, therefore it can be concluded that the surface quenching mitigation related to the desorption of water molecules on the surface is a common mechanism of the luminescence thermal enhancement. But ET related to the thermally‐activated surface phonons is a special case, it does play a positive role in Yb3+/Tm3+ system. These findings not only explain the upconversion luminescence thermal enhancement in Yb3+/Tm3+ system is more significant but also help to understand thermal enhancement and benefit highly‐sensitive temperature probe design.
In Vivo Evaluation of Laser‐Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOBS) by 1064‐nm Nd:YAG Fractional Picosecond Laser With Reflectance Confocal Microscopy and Precise Histopathologic Correlation
Authors: Rojas‐Orrego Maritza , Carreño Nestor , Feuerhake Teo , Navarrete‐Dechent Cristian
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Picosecond lasers with a microlens array can cause laser‐induced optical breakdown (LIOBS) and LIC (Intradermal laser‐induced cavitation) within high‐fluence areas. This study aimed to describe the clinical, reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), histopathological findings, and the characteristics of vacuoles caused by LIOBS and LIC in individuals with skin types III and IV.

Materials and Methods

This study was performed on six Chilean healthy volunteers, males and females, aged 35–65 years old with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes III–IV. The laser was applied in the inner proximal area of the nondominant arm. RCM evaluation was performed 24 h later; 48 h later, skin biopsies were performed on the laser‐treated areas. Clinical, histological, and RCM findings were recorded.

Results

Every individual developed a 10 mm2 area of clinical erythema in the treated area. Under RCM, all six volunteers had hyporeflective spherical structures at the level of the epidermis, consistent with intraepidermal vacuoles. Histopathological evaluation revealed different sizes of vacuoles in both the epidermis and dermis.

Conclusion

The LIOBS and LIC processes and the secondary production of vacuoles could be highly valuable for effective dermal remodeling treatment and aid in promoting the production of new collagen, elastic fibers, and growth factors that could improve skin texture. These structures were visible under RCM and histopathological evaluation.
Metamaterialbased Wide Band MIMO Antenna with Enhanced Isolation for C‐ and X‐band Applications
Authors: Undrakonda Jyothsna , Upadhyayula Ratna K. , Kumar Ch. Manohar , Naidu V. M.
Published: July 2024

A new decoupling element technology is used to create a tiny circular patch mutiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna measuring 20 × 25 × 1.6 mm3. A simple split‐ring resonator (SRR) metamaterial design with adjustable inner ring inductance and capacitance allows MIMO antennas to operate across several frequency bands. Tunable‐split ring resonators (T‐SRRs) are small and improve antenna element isolation. The proposed MIMO system provides isolation larger than 20 dB from 5.93 to 12.63 GHz. It is useful for radar applications since it includes the C‐band upper link (5.925–6.425 GHz) and the X‐band (8–12 GHz). With good tuning and network structure decoupling, antennas can operate in dual bands with isolation levels below −15 dB. Over 85% radiation efficiency and 72% miniaturization were achieved in the proposed MIMO antenna. The antenna has good radiation and diversity performance, including an envelope correlation coefficient < 0.1 and a diversity gain of 9.98 dB. These qualities make it suitable for advanced technology.
Gravitationally controlled passive beam steering of a printed cross dipole antenna
Authors: Borah Pranjal
Published: July 2024

In this study, the design and characterization of a printed cross‐dipole antenna with a gravitationally controlled passive beam steering technique has been presented. The steering of the beam is achieved by using a floating reflector that remains parallel to the earth surface when the antenna along with the mounted body gets inclined while traveling through uneven roadways. Initially, the microstrip cross dipole antenna is designed and simulated along with the reflector to operate in one of the allocated 5G frequency bands of 2.6 GHz. This is followed by the fabrication of the antenna prototype along with a glass chamber where the reflector is kept floated over the fluid. Measurements are carried out and are in good comparison with that of the simulated one. This presented work can be a potential passive beam steering technique that can be used for surface‐to‐air communication systems.
Dopamine in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism: a narrative review
Authors: Li Zhehong , Zheng Lifei , Wang Jing , Wang Liang , Qi Yao , Amin Buhe , Zhu Jinxia , Zhang Nengwei
Published: July 2024

Objective

Owing to the global obesity epidemic, understanding the regulatory mechanisms of glucose and lipid metabolism has become increasingly important. The dopaminergic system, including dopamine, dopamine receptors, dopamine transporters, and other components, is involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes. However, the mechanism of action of the dopaminergic system in glucose and lipid metabolism is poorly understood. In this review, we examine the role of the dopaminergic system in glucose and lipid metabolism.

Results

The dopaminergic system regulates glucose and lipid metabolism through several mechanisms. It regulates various activities at the central level, including appetite control and decision‐making, which contribute to regulating body weight and energy metabolism. In the pituitary gland, dopamine inhibits prolactin production and promotes insulin secretion through dopamine receptor 2. Furthermore, it can influence various physiological components in the peripheral system, such as pancreatic β cells, glucagon‐like peptide‐1, adipocytes, hepatocytes, and muscle, by regulating insulin and glucagon secretion, glucose uptake and use, and fatty acid metabolism.

Conclusions

The role of dopamine in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism has significant implications for the physiology and pathogenesis of disease. The potential therapeutic value of dopamine lies in its effects on metabolic disorders.
Trimester‐specific rate of gestational weight loss or gain and birth size: differences by prepregnancy BMI
Authors: Boone‐Heinonen Janne , Dinh Dang , Springer Rachel , Liu Shuling , O'Malley Jean , Rosenquist Natalie A. , Schmidt Teresa , Snowden Jonathan M. , Tran Sarah‐Truclinh , Vesco Kimberly K.
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to estimate the effects of trimester‐specific gestational weight gain (GWG) on small and large (compared with appropriate) for gestational age (i.e., SGA, LGA, and AGA) by prepregnancy BMI classifications.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study of pregnancies in a national network of community health care organizations, stratifying by prepregnancy BMI (n = 20,676 with normal weight; 19,156 with overweight; 11,647 with obesity class I; 5124 with obesity class II; and 3197 with obesity class III). SGA and LGA (vs. AGA) were modeled as a function of trimester 1, 2, or 3 GWG rate, previous trimester(s) GWG rate, and maternal characteristics using modified Poisson regression.

Results

GWG rates ranged from weight loss to substantial gains. GWG‐LGA associations were strongest in trimester 1 (risk ratio [RR] range for 10th vs. 50th percentile GWG, across BMI categories: 0.60–0.73). GWG‐SGA associations were strongest in lower BMI categories and in trimester 2; RRs were 1.62, 1.40, and 1.17 for prepregnancy normal weight, obesity class I, and obesity class III, respectively, with curvilinear associations for class II and III.

Conclusions

Among people with prepregnancy obesity class II or III, GWG rate is associated with higher LGA risk in a dose‐dependent manner, including understudied ranges of weight loss, but with weak associations with SGA.
Machine Learning Methods in Classification of Prolonged Radiation Therapy in Oropharyngeal Cancer: National Cancer Database
Authors: Ahn Seungjun , Oh Eun Jeong , Saleem Matthew I. , Tham Tristan
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate the accuracy of machine learning (ML) algorithms in stratifying risk of prolonged radiation treatment duration (RTD), defined as greater than 50 days, for patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

National Cancer Database (NCDB).

Methods

The NCDB was queried between 2004 to 2016 for patients with OPSCC treated with radiation therapy (RT) or chemoradiation as primary treatment. To predict risk of prolonged RTD, 8 different ML algorithms were compared against traditional logistic regression using various performance metrics. Data was split into a distribution of 70% for training and 30% for testing.

Results

A total of 3152 patients were included (1928 prolonged RT, 1224 not prolonged RT). As a whole, based on performance metrics, random forest (RF) was found to most accurately predict prolonged RTD compared to both other ML methods and traditional logistic regression.

Conclusion

Our assessment of various ML techniques showed that RF was superior to traditional logistic regression at classifying OPSCC patients at risk of prolonged RTD. Application of such algorithms may have potential to identify high risk patients and enable early interventions to improve survival.
Changes in the tumour microenvironment mark the transition from serous borderline tumour to low‐grade serous carcinoma
Authors: Vallejos Rodrigo , Zhantuyakova Almira , Negri Gian Luca , Martin Spencer D , Spencer Sandra E , Thornton Shelby , Leung Samuel , Lynch Branden , Qin Yimei , Chow Christine , Liang Brooke , Zdravko Sabrina , Douglas J Maxwell , Milne Katy , Mateyko Bridget , Nelson Brad H , Howitt Brooke E , Kommoss Felix KF , Horn Lars‐Christian , Hoang Lien , Singh Naveena , Morin Gregg B , Huntsman David G , Cochrane Dawn
Published: July 2024

Low‐grade serous ovarian carcinoma (LGSC) is a rare and lethal subtype of ovarian cancer. LGSC is pathologically, biologically, and clinically distinct from the more common high‐grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSC). LGSC arises from serous borderline ovarian tumours (SBTs). The mechanism of transformation for SBTs to LGSC remains poorly understood. To better understand the biology of LGSC, we performed whole proteome profiling of formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue blocks of LGSC (n = 11), HGSC (n = 19), and SBTs (n = 26). We identified that the whole proteome is able to distinguish between histotypes of the ovarian epithelial tumours. Proteins associated with the tumour microenvironment were differentially expressed between LGSC and SBTs. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP), a protein expressed in cancer‐associated fibroblasts, is the most differentially abundant protein in LGSC compared with SBT. Multiplex immunohistochemistry (IHC) for immune markers (CD20, CD79a, CD3, CD8, and CD68) was performed to determine the presence of B cells, T cells, and macrophages. The LGSC FAP+ stroma was associated with greater abundance of Tregs and M2 macrophages, features not present in SBTs. Our proteomics cohort reveals that there are changes in the tumour microenvironment in LGSC compared with its putative precursor lesion, SBT. These changes suggest that the tumour microenvironment provides a supportive environment for LGSC tumourigenesis and progression. Thus, targeting the tumour microenvironment of LGSC may be a viable therapeutic strategy. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Metal ion‐accelerated poly(catechol/polyamine) deposition and epoxy‐functionalized modification: Building bridges between aramid pulp and carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber/cis‐polybutadiene rubber
Authors: Zhao Meng , Duan Hao , Dong Juyuan , Peng Keyu , Han Linfeng , Jing Yuan , Abtahi Bob , Lin Guangyi
Published: July 2024

In this work, we prepare epoxidized aramid pulp (AP) by grafting ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDE) onto the surface of AP via poly catechol/polyamine (PCPA). Subsequently, we premix the epoxidized AP with carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber (XNBR) to induce a chemical reaction with the carboxyl group in XNBR. The carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber/cis‐polybutadiene rubber/aramid pulp (XNBR/BR/AP) composites are prepared by mechanical blending. Water contact angle, FTIR, and XPS confirm the grafting of EGDE onto AP via an epoxy group ring‐opening reaction. The rheological performance results indicate that the addition of EGDE decreases the curing time of the composites and increases the degree of cross‐linking of the composites. The compatibility between AP and rubber is analyzed by SEM, and it is deduced that the interfacial bonding between AP and composite is enhanced by EGDE. The tensile strength, tear strength, abrasion resistance, and solvent resistance of the composites are significantly improved after EGDE modification. RPA results show that the modified AP is uniformly dispersed in the composites and reduces the rolling resistance of the composites. A new and effective strategy is provided for the surface functionalization of aramid pulp meal, which has a wide range of rubber industry applications.

Highlights

Composite mechanical properties increase with increasing EGDE content.

Rheological properties of composites improved by EGDE incorporation.

EGDE improves filler dispersion, reduced rolling resistance of composites.

Increased interfacial bonding between AP and rubber due to EGDE.
First‐Principles Study on the Spin Polarization of Single‐Walled Arsenic Nitride Nanotubes Decorated with C, O, Ge, and Se
Authors: Zhu Hanze , Rahman Mavlanjan
Published: July 2024

This article utilizes first‐principles calculations within the density functional theory framework, employing spin generalized gradient approximation, to investigate the spin polarization of arsenic nitride nanotubes (AsNNTs). It is found that AsNNT does not exhibit spin polarization and has a bandgap of 1.05 eV, indicating that it is a semiconductor. Decoration with C, O, Ge, and Se on AsNNT induces spin polarization, resulting in magnetic moments of 1.001, 0.916, 0.770, and 0.967 μB, respectively. Meanwhile, all decorated configurations exhibit narrow bandgap semiconductor properties. Furthermore, the nonequilibrium Green's function method is used to study the spin‐polarized current of AsNNT decorated with C, O, Ge, and Se. It is found that AsNNTs decorated with C, Ge, and Se have relatively small spin current values. Notably, the Se‐decorated AsNNT exhibits the highest degree of spin polarization, with the spin current being nearly fully polarized.
Pleuroparenchymal sarcoidosis: A rare manifestation mimicking metastatic lung cancer
Authors: Gan Eugene , Tay Chee Kiang
Published: July 2024

A 66‐year‐old male from Myanmar presented with 3 months of cough and constitutional symptoms. He was an ex‐tobacco user with no significant medical or exposure history. Chest x‐ray showed ill‐defined bilateral opacities and a left pleural effusion. Chest CT revealed two right lower lobe masses, and a moderate‐sized left pleural effusion. PET‐CT demonstrated hypermetabolic uptake in the thickened nodular pleura, pericardium, and hilar/mediastinal lymph nodes. EBUS‐TBNA of the right lower paratracheal node and TBLB of the right lower lobe mass yielded epithelioid granulomas comprising multinucleated giant cells, epithelioid histiocytes and lymphoplasmacytic cells. Thoracoscopy revealed hard, whitish mass‐like parietal pleural plaques, and pleural biopsy revealed identical histopathologic results. His symptoms resolved quickly after commencing prednisolone 25 mg daily. Chest CT at 6 months demonstrated near complete resolution of the parenchymal masses and pleural effusion. We highlight this unique case of pleuroparenchymal sarcoidosis mimicking metastatic lung cancer in a tuberculosis‐endemic region.
“Trotula” is not an example of the Matilda effect: On correcting scholarly myths and engaging with professional history: A response to Malecki et al. 2024
Authors: Green Monica H.
Published: July 2024

In 1993, historian of American science Margaret Rossiter introduced the concept of the “Matilda Effect,” to describe a common historical pattern of women's achievements in science and medicine being ignored or purloined by male associates. At the same time, she was writing, however, professional work was being done in a variety of areas of women's history, including the medieval period from which Rossiter drew what she thought was her most salient example: the medical figure, “Trotula.” In fact, “Trotula” was not a woman but the title of a book. Extensive research by professional historians has shown that the real historic woman, Trota of Salerno, was widely credited by her contemporaries (and for the next 300 years) not only for her own work but also for the work of two male writers whose texts became attached to hers in the Trotula ensemble. These findings from professional historical research have been known for over 20 years but rarely acknowledged in Science Studies. The present study proposes that a corrected understanding of Trota's story provides a useful example, not of the Matilda Effect, but of the ways gender functions to restrict even famous women to certain roles.
A holistic understanding of inclusion in STEM: Systemic challenges and support for women and LGBT+ academics and PhD students
Authors: Reggiani Marco , Gagnon Jessica Dawn , Lunn Rebecca Jane
Published: July 2024

Barriers to equity, diversity, and inclusion remain in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for historically underrepresented and marginalized individuals. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of women and LGBT+ academics and PhD students in the United Kingdom. Specifically, this article examines systemic challenges and support that 82 participants who identified as women and/or LGBT+ academics and PhD students have experienced in their STEM environments and throughout their careers. In this qualitative study, we employed intersectionality theory to frame a thematic analysis of interviews and focus groups. Our findings indicate that the experiences of participants are characterized more by inequities than by support from colleagues, peers, and higher education institutions. Inequities are widespread and intersectional, and have a cumulative impact whenever individuals endure multiple and potentially escalating challenges—which include hard‐to‐spot disadvantages, stereotypes, prejudice, as well as harassment, bullying, and discrimination. Participants’ accounts illustrate the benefits of different support mechanisms but also the limitations of initiatives to support marginalized individuals and groups in STEM that are not systematically embedded across institutions. Based on our findings, we present two conceptual models to better understand systemic challenges and their consequences for women and LGBT+ academics and PhD students in STEM, as well as to inform more holistic support mechanisms to create more inclusive STEM environments. Implications from the study highlight institutional accountability as key to improving climates and transformative change.
Mechanical Design Guidelines to Inhibit Fracture in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Colburn Thomas William , Liu Kuan , Carbone Abigail , Elsafty Omar , Dauskardt Reinhold Horst
Published: July 2024

Perovskite (PVSK) solar cells offer significant benefits over conventional silicon cells including low‐cost solution processibility, minimal materials usage related to strong photon absorption in thin‐film cell architectures, and a tunable bandgap. However, PVSK films are mechanically fragile, and fracture of PVSK layers and adjacent interfaces are a significant concern during fabrication, encapsulation, and operation. Herein, a thin‐film mechanics fracture analysis tailored for p–i–n and n–i–p PVSK solar cells on both soda lime glass and polyimide substrates fabricated with three PVSK crystallization methods is presented. The role of thermal processing of each cell layer is explored to determine the maximum allowable temperature below which fracture is inhibited. In the analysis, the mechanics basis for processing and materials selection guidelines for preventing fracture in PVSK solar cells is provided.
Quality by Design‐Assisted RP‐HPLC Method for Determination of Ritonavir and Darunavir in Pharmaceutical Formulation Using Central Composite Design
Authors: Koppisetty Bhagavan Rajesh Babu , Kollabathula Varaprasada Rao , Challa Gangu Naidu , Yarraguntla Srinivasa Rao
Published: July 2024

The quality by design enabled the development of cost‐effective, simple, precise, and rapid Reversed phase‐ high‐performance liquid chromatography techniques for determining ritonavir (RIT) and darunavir (DAR) in the tablet dosage form. Systematic method optimization was performed through central composite design by altering the flow rate and composition of the organic phase in the mobile phase as the critical method parameters for evaluating the necessary analytical attributes, namely, the tailing factor, theoretical plate count, and resolution. The optimal separation was achieved on a column with C18 in nature and dimensions of (250 mm length × 4.6 mm id × 5 µm particle size) using a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and water (75:25 v/v) at a flow rate of 0.9 mL/min. Detection was carried out at 247 nm. The retention time of DAR and RIT was 2.939 and 3.537 min, respectively, as per International Council for Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. The developed method was useful for the determination of bulk drug and formulations.
Removal of Residual DNA and Host Cell Proteins for the Purification of Recombinant Staphylokinase Expressed in Escherichia coli
Authors: Guang Li , jing Li , Zhenxing Zou , Bo Liu , Weiping Li , Yang Ding , Xuri Song , Xiaolan Fang , Daoqi Hu
Published: July 2024

The elimination of residual host cell DNA (HCD) and proteins (HCPs) is a pivotal step in the purification process for biological products such as monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, vaccines, gene therapy vectors, and cell‐based therapies. During the preparation of recombinant staphylokinase (r‐SAK), a potential therapeutic protein for thrombotic disorders expressed in Escherichia coli cells, an efficient chromatography purification process, incorporating anion exchange, cation exchange, and gel filtration techniques, was developed to effectively eliminate HCPs and residual DNA. This multistep chromatography approach yielded r‐SAK with a residual HCD concentration below 1 ng/mL, a residual HCP concentration below 0.01%, and purity exceeding 98%. Comparative analysis revealed that modified cellulose‐based matrix resins exhibited superior efficiency compared to dextran and agarose matrix resins for eliminating residual HCPs and HCD under identical conditions. Based on the different properties of the matrix, deductions were made regarding the reasons for the differentiation in separation efficiency. The physical strength of the cellulose‐based matrix ensures the structural stability of macroporous resin and can guarantee efficient separation under conditions of high flow and heavy load. This study suggests that maintaining the structural stability of macropores in bioseparation materials is crucial for improving the efficiency of separating biological products.