bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The m6A modification of ACSL4 mRNA sensitized esophageal squamous cell carcinoma to irradiation via accelerating ferroptosis
Authors: Jin Yingying , Pan Shupei , Wang Mincong , Huang Shan , Ke Yue , Li Dan , Luo Hen , Kou Zhanfeng , Shi Dongwen , Kou Weihua , Fu Hongxiao , Pan Jiyuan
Published: September 2024

Radioresistance is a major obstacle for the therapy of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and lead to a poor prognosis. Ferroptosis is supposed to be responsible for radioresistance. However, the ferroptosis‐induced radioresistance in ESCC and its related regulatory mechanisms are not yet fully understood. In this study, human ESCC cell line and the corresponding radioresistance cells were irradiated with 6 megavolts (MV) X‐ray. It was showed that irradiation led to less ferroptosis in radioresistant ESCC cells as compared to the parental cells, as depicted by transmission electron microscopy, intracellular Fe2+ iron contents, lipid peroxidation, and expression of COX2. The increase of ASCL4 expression levels in radioresistant cells after radiotherapy was smaller than that in the parental cells. ACSL4 overexpression significantly enhanced ferroptosis. The fold increase in ACSL4 m6A modification in the radioresistant cells was significantly smaller than that in the parental cells as detected by methylated RNA immunoprecipitation with qRT‐PCR. METTL14 overexpression accelerated ferroptosis induced by irradiation via upregulating m6A modification of ACSL4 mRNA. In conclusions, ferroptosis ablation was responsible for the radioresistant of ESCC. The METTL14‐mediated m6A modification of ACSL4 mRNA sensitized ESCC to irradiation via accelerating ferroptosis. This study sheds new light on our understanding of radioresistant in ESCC, and provides potential strategies for ESCC radiotherapy.
The impact of COVID‐19 on hay fever treatment in Japan: A retrospective cohort study based on the Japanese claims database
Authors: Akasaki Yasutsugu , Inomata Takenori , Iwagami Masao , Sung Jaemyoung , Nagino Ken , Adachi Takeya , Morita Hideaki , Tamari Mayumi , Kainuma Keigo , Kan‐o Keiko , Ogata Hiroaki , Sakashita Masafumi , Futamura Masaki , Kurashima Yosuke , Nakajima Saeko , Masaki Katsunori , Ogawa Yasushi , Sato Sakura , Miyagawa Akihiro , Midorikawa‐Inomata Akie , Fujimoto Keiichi , Okumura Yuichi , Fujio Kenta , Huang Tianxiang , Hirosawa Kunihiko , Morooka Yuki , Murakami Akira , Nakao Shintaro
Published: September 2024

Background

Hay fever (HF) presents with various symptoms, including allergic conjunctivitis and rhinitis, and requires cross‐organ treatment. This study assessed the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on HF treatment trends.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized data from the JMDC database collected between January 2018 and May 2021. Patients with HF were identified based on the relevant International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision diagnosis codes and the prescription of HF‐related medications. The treatment approaches were compared during the cedar and cypress pollen allergy season (January to May in Japan) before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic (2018 and 2019, and 2020 and 2021, respectively).

Results

This study included 2,598,178 patients with HF. The numbers of prescribed HF‐related claims in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 were 3,332,854, 3,534,198, 2,774,380, and 2,786,681 times, respectively. Oral second‐generation antihistamine prescriptions decreased by >10% from 2019 to 2020, with a <10% change in the subsequent year. Anti‐allergic eye drop prescriptions also decreased by >10% from 2019 to 2020 but increased by >10% from 2020 to 2021. Compared with 2018, 2019, and 2020, the number of claims in the rhinitis symptoms dominant group was significantly decreased in 2021 (p < 0.001, all). In contrast, the number of claims in the eye symptoms dominant group and the rhinitis and eye symptoms dominant group increased in 2021 compared with that in 2018, 2019, and 2020 (p < 0.001, all).

Conclusion

Changes in HF treatment and related outcomes could be attributed to lifestyle modifications resulting from the COVID‐19 pandemic. Measures, such as limiting outdoor activities and adopting mask‐wearing practices may have influenced HF symptoms, preventive behaviors, and the overall approach to treating HF.
Lightweight High‐Throughput TRNG Based on Single‐Node Boolean Chaotic Structure
Authors: Zhou Hongli , Yao Liang , Feng Yongkang , Huang Zhengfeng , Lu Yingchun
Published: September 2024

With the rise of the Internet and electronic devices, the security of network information is gaining attention, and the true random number generator (TRNG) is playing an increasingly crucial role in information security. TRNG, based on Boolean chaotic entropy source, has drawn significant interest due to its uncomplicated circuit design and minimal hardware resource usage. However, most existing structures consist of two‐input or three‐input logic devices, forming a complex multinode, geometrically symmetric Boolean chaotic network using multiple logic devices. This network configuration results in increased complexity and reduced throughput. This study introduces an entropy source based on Boolean chaos utilizing single‐node and four‐input XOR gates, which can be easily placed and routed on Xilinx Artix‐7 FPGA. It requires only 29 LUTs and 5 DFFs without any postprocessing, achieving a throughput of up to 700 Mb/s. The output of TRNG has successfully passed various tests including the autocorrelation test, NIST SP800‐22, NIST SP800‐90B, AIS‐31, and TESTU01 tests with favorable results. Furthermore, by applying a three‐stage XOR chain postprocessing on Xilinx Spartan‐6 FPGA and Xilinx Virtex‐6 FPGA, it has passed the NIST SP800‐22 and NIST SP800‐90B tests at 300 Mb/s. The structure was also tested using Xilinx Virtex‐6 FPGA under different temperature and voltage conditions, passing the NIST SP800‐90B IID test.
Effect of spray COAG mode on hemostasis in colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection using inverse probability of treatment weight analysis
Authors: Kanazawa Jun , Ikehara Hisatomo , Horii Toshiki , Kitahara Gen , Betto Tomohiro , Yokoyama Kaoru , Kobayashi Kiyonori , Kusano Chika
Published: September 2024

Objective

Swift and forced COAG with an electrosurgical knife are commonly used for intraoperative hemostasis in colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). If bleeding cannot be stopped using an electrosurgical knife, cauterization is attempted using hemostatic forceps. Since April 2022, our hospital has started using Spray COAG for intraoperative hemostasis for colorectal ESD. This study aimed to provide evidence of the efficacy of Spray COAG for intraoperative hemostasis.

Methods

Colorectal ESD was performed for 320 lesions at our hospital. Of these, 307 were included; 145 and 162 lesions were operated before and after the introduction of Spray COAG, respectively. Spray COAG was used after the change. The primary endpoint was the change in the frequency of use of hemostatic forceps after the introduction of Spray COAG; the secondary endpoint was the change in the prevalence of postoperative complications after the introduction of Spray COAG. It should be noted that the Spray COAG mode was employed solely for hemostasis and not for dissection, while the Swift COAG mode was utilized for dissection in the After Spray COAG group. Statistical analysis was conducted using IPTW analysis.

Results

The frequency of use of hemostatic forceps was significantly decreased after the introduction of Spray COAG (odds ratio = 0.12, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.06–0.23, p < 0.001). The prevalence of post‐ESD electrocoagulation syndrome significantly decreased (odds ratio = 0.43, 95%CI: 0.22–0.88, p = 0.02). No significant differences were observed between the intraoperative and postoperative perforations or rate of postoperative bleeding.

Conclusion

Spray COAG reduced the frequency of hemostatic forceps use in colorectal ESD.
Modeling cheatgrass distribution, abundance, and response to climate change as a function of soil microclimate
Authors: Terry Tyson J. , Hardegree Stuart P. , Adler Peter B.
Published: September 2024

Exotic annual grass invasions in water‐limited systems cause degradation of native plant and animal communities and increased fire risk. The life history of invasive annual grasses allows for high sensitivity to interannual variability in weather. Current distribution and abundance models derived from remote sensing, however, provide only a coarse understanding of how species respond to weather, making it difficult to anticipate how climate change will affect vulnerability to invasion. Here, we derived germination covariates (rate sums) from mechanistic germination and soil microclimate models to quantify the favorability of soil microclimate for cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.) establishment and growth across 30 years at 2662 sites across the sagebrush steppe system in the western United States. Our approach, using four bioclimatic covariates alone, predicted cheatgrass distribution with accuracy comparable to previous models fit using many years of remotely‐sensed imagery. Accuracy metrics from our out‐of‐sample testing dataset indicate that our model predicted distribution well (72% overall accuracy) but explained patterns of abundance poorly (R2 = 0.22). Climatic suitability for cheatgrass presence depended on both spatial (mean) and temporal (annual anomaly) variation of fall and spring rate sums. Sites that on average have warm and wet fall soils and warm and wet spring soils (high rate sums during these periods) were predicted to have a high abundance of cheatgrass. Interannual variation in fall soil conditions had a greater impact on cheatgrass presence and abundance than spring conditions. Our model predicts that climate change has already affected cheatgrass distribution with suitable microclimatic conditions expanding 10%–17% from 1989 to 2019 across all aspects at low‐ to mid‐elevation sites, while high‐ elevation sites (>2100 m) remain unfavorable for cheatgrass due to cold spring and fall soils.
Variation in nest survival of three species of tropical plovers in Madagascar with clutch size, age of nest, year and El Niño effect
Authors: Tanner Claire E. , Jones William , Kubelka Vojtěch , Caspers Barbara A. , Krueger Oliver , Mijoro Tafita Jaona , Sandercock Brett K. , Zefania Sama , Székely Tamás
Published: September 2024

A combination of life history traits and environmental conditions has been highlighted as the main drivers of avian breeding success. While drivers of breeding success are well known in some species, especially birds in northern, temperate regions; species in other parts of the world have received relatively little attention. In this study, we used a long‐term dataset on breeding success of tropical plovers from south‐west Madagascar to investigate whether nest survival changed over time and whether the drivers of nest survival were similar for multiple species breeding in the same arid habitat. In the 12‐year period of 2009–2020, we monitored 2077 nests for three species with different breeding strategies: 1185 nests of Kittlitz's plovers (Anarhynchus pecuarius) with a flexible breeding strategy and uniparental care; and 565 nests of white‐fronted plovers (A. marginatus) and 327 nests of Madagascar plovers (A. thoracicus) which both have biparental care. We found that nest survival was associated with a combination of clutch‐size, age of nest and year among the three plover species. In addition, annual variation in climatic conditions associated with El Niño/La Niña events were included in the most supported survival models for Kittlitz's and white‐fronted plovers, but the effects were not significant. Overall estimates of daily nest survival were similar for all three species: Kittlitz's plover: 0.950 ± 0.002 SE, Madagascar plover: 0.919 ± 0.007 SE, and white‐fronted plover: 0.862 ± 0.047 SE. Estimates of nest success for the breeding season, based on increases in daily nest survival with the clutch age during the incubation periods (26 days for Kittlitz's plovers and 29 days for Madagascar and white‐fronted plovers), were relatively low: Kittlitz's plover: 0.161 ± 0.056 SE, Madagascar plover: 0.287 ± 0.022 SE, and white‐fronted plover: 0.228 ± 0.019 SE. All three species had a combination of factors affecting nest survival, both environmental and life history traits.
An integrative paradigm for building causal knowledge
Authors: Grace James B.
Published: September 2024

A core aspiration of the ecological sciences is to determine how systems work, which implies the challenge of developing a causal understanding. Causal inference has long been approached from a statistical perspective, which can be limited and restrictive for a variety of reasons. Ecologists and other natural scientists have historically pursued mechanistic knowledge as an alternative approach to causal understanding, though without explicit reference to the requirements of causal statistics. In this paper, I describe the premises of an expanded paradigm for causal studies, the Integrative Causal Investigation Paradigm, that subsumes causal statistics and mechanistic investigation into a multi‐evidence approach. This paradigm is distinct from the one articulated by causal statistics in that it (1) focuses its attention on the long‐term goal of building causal knowledge across multiple studies and (2) recognizes the essential role of mechanistic investigations in establishing a causal understanding. The Integrative Paradigm, consequentially, proposes that there are multiple methodological routes to building causal knowledge and thus represents a pluralistic perspective. This paper begins by describing the crux of the problem faced by causal statistics. To understand this problem, it should be recognized that the word causal has multiple meanings and a variety of evidential standards. An expanded vocabulary is developed so as to reduce ambiguities and clarify critical issues. I further show by example that there is an important ingredient typically omitted from consideration in causal statistics, which is the known information related to the mechanisms underlying relationships being evaluated. To address this issue, I describe a procedure, Causal Knowledge Analysis, that involves an evaluation and compilation of existing evidence indicative of causal content and the features of mechanisms. Causal Knowledge Analysis is applied to three example situations to illustrate the process and its potential for contributing to the development of causal knowledge. The implications of adopting the proposed paradigm and associated procedures are discussed and include the potential for advancing ecology, the potential for clarifying causal methodology, and the potential for contributing to predictive forecasting.
Streaming electric field, electroviscous effect, and electrokinetic liquid flows in the induced pressure‐driven transport of active liquids in narrow capillaries
Authors: Das Siddhartha , Chandel Ghansham Rajendrasingh
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we develop a theory for studying the electrokinetic effects in a charged nanocapillary filled with active liquid. The active particles present within the active liquid are self‐driven, demonstrate vortex defects, and enforce a circumferentially arranged polarization field. Under such circumstances, there is the development of an induced pressure‐gradient‐driven transport dictated (similar to diffusioosmotic transport) by the presence of an axial gradient in the activity (or the concentration of the active particles). This pressure‐driven transport has a profile different from the standard Hagen–Poiseuille flow in a nanocapillary. Also, this induced pressure‐driven flow drives electrokinetic effects, which are characterized by the generation of a streaming electric field, associated electroosmotic (EOS) transport opposing pressure‐driven flow, and electroviscous effect. We quantify these effects as functions of dimensionless parameters that vary inversely as the strength of the activity‐induced pressure‐driven flow and salt concentrations. Overall, we anticipate that this paper will draw immense attention toward a new type of activity‐induced pressure‐driven flow and associated electrokinetic phenomena in charged nanoconfinements.
Research Progress on Characteristics of On‐Line Hydrogen Production by Methanol Steam Reforming
Authors: Chen Bin , Wang Zonghua
Published: September 2024

On‐line hydrogen production via methanol steam reforming (MSR) has gained considerable interest due to its high efficiency, affordability, and eco‐friendliness. Currently, this technology has been widely applied in the industry and has become an important method for hydrogen energy production. However, there are still some issues with this technology, such as short catalyst lifespan and CO pollution, which require further research and improvement. This article provides a comprehensive review of the research progress made in this field, with a particular focus on the catalyst development, reaction mechanism, theoretical calculation, and reactor design. Additionally, the challenges and prospects of on‐line hydrogen production by MSR are also discussed. In conclusion, MSR technology for hydrogen production has vast application prospects and development potential. It will be further explored in‐depth and extensively in future research.
Effect of silane coupling agent on mechanical properties, flame retardancy, and ceramifiable behavior of ceramifiable flame‐retardant silicone rubber composite
Authors: Wang Jun‐Sheng , Shang Ke , Jiang Hui‐Jing , Wang Peng‐Ju , Zhu Hai‐Bo , Lin Gui‐De , Jin Xing , Liu Dan , Zhao Bi , Yang Jin‐Jun , Fu Teng
Published: September 2024

In order to improve the dispersibility of inorganic fillers and enhance its ceramifiable flame‐retardant efficiency, the ceramifiable flame‐retardant silicone rubber composites were prepared using glass powder, zinc borate, ammonium polyphosphate, mica powder, platinum catalyst as ceramifiable flame‐retardant agent, and various silane coupling agents as interfacial modifier. The micromorphology, mechanical properties, flame retardancy, thermal stability, and combustion behavior of ceramifiable flame‐retardant silicone rubber composites, as well as the flexural strength of the corresponding ceramics generated after pyrolysis of the composites were examined. The results reveal that the inclusion of silane coupling agents improves the dispersibility of ceramifiable flame‐retardant agents substantially. The mechanical properties, flame retardancy, thermal stability, and combustion behavior of ceramifiable flame‐retardant silicone rubber composites are all improved. When compared to a composite without a silane coupling agent, the tensile strength of the composite can be improved by up to 1.9 times. Only 0.5phr silane coupling agent is required to raise the vertical combustion rating from V‐1 to V‐0, and the composite with 3 phr KH570 has a LOI value of 38.6. Meanwhile, the heat release rate of the composite is reduced to a certain extent, and the time to ignition and residue are dramatically enhanced after the addition of silane coupling agent in the cone calorimetry test. Moreover, flexural strength of the corresponding ceramics generated after pyrolysis of the composites rapidly increases with increasing silane coupling agent content, which can reach to 24.7 MPa with addition of 3 phr KH570.
MATCH‐IT: A decision support tool for multiple comparisons presenting data from network meta‐analysis to facilitate guideline development
Authors: Hunskaar Birk S. , Løvsletten Per O. , Achille Frankie , Heen Anja F. , Agoritsas Thomas , Vandvik Per O.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Network meta‐analysis (NMA) provides unprecedented opportunities to compare multiple treatment options (multiple comparisons) and are increasingly being used to inform clinical practice guidelines. However, the overwhelming amount of data generated from NMAs is challenging to present in comprehensible overviews for end‐users, guideline panelists included. Acknowledging these challenges, we developed MATCH‐IT—an interactive evidence summary displaying NMA results for multiple comparisons. In this study, we conducted user‐testing and further developed MATCH‐IT to support guideline panels in moving from NMA evidence to recommendations.

Methods

We user‐tested the tool with guideline panelists and observed the use of the tool in panel meetings. User‐testing sessions and guideline meetings were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. The analysis informed the iterative development in the tool.

Results

We included four guideline panels and tested the tool with 15 panelists (four chairs, four methodologists, five clinical experts and two patient partners). User testing revealed both positive aspects and limitations of the tool. Interactivity allowed for dynamic display of the evidence during panels meetings and was highlighted as valuable. Further, participants felt that the tool provided overview of complex evidence, further facilitated by categorization of effects through colour coding. The inclusion of information on burden of treatment was highlighted as relevant and valuable. Regarding limitations, some users had issues discovering the interactive features. Earlier versions of MATCH‐IT did not include sufficiently detailed information, such as the imprecision of effect estimates, which the users felt was needed for decision making. These findings led to refinements of the tool, including a new tutorial, inclusion of confidence intervals, and a new layer displaying more detailed information.

Discussion

Our study suggests that MATCH‐IT may play a role in facilitating guideline development by easing understanding of NMA evidence and alleviating information overload in guideline panelists.
Predictors of quality of professional life and well‐being of medical residents and interns: Role of gender and workplace spirituality
Authors: Yadollahpour Mohammad Hadi , Eydi Maral , Yaminfirooz Mousa , Gholinia Hemmat , Shahrokhi Shirin , Faramarzi Mahbobeh
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

The well‐being of physicians in their professional lives has a major influence on the quality of medical care and patient outcomes. This study explored how Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) and psychological well‐being are connected to workplace spirituality (WPS) and demographic factors like age and gender. It also compared the average levels of ProQOL, psychological well‐being, and WPS between medical residents and interns.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, 230 medical residents and interns completed three questionnaires, including ProQOL, Ryff Scale Psychological Wellbeing–Short Form, and WPS. The data was analysed using Pearson correlation, independent t‐test, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression modeling.

Results

Residents and interns had moderate ProQOL levels and higher work spirituality. However, medical residents scored lower in occupational spirituality and compassionate care fulfillment compared to interns while experiencing higher levels of emotional exhaustion and secondary mental strain. Gender disparities were significant, with women scoring higher in compassionate care fulfillment but lower in secondary mental strain. Regression analysis showed that occupational spirituality positively predicted professional, compassionate care fulfillment (B = 0.910, p < 0.001) but negatively predicted emotional exhaustion in both groups.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the importance of understanding factors like gender and work spirituality to enhance the well‐being and quality of care provided by medical residents and interns.
Monetary policy transmission under pandemic uncertainty: Effect on banks' risk and capital adjustments
Authors: Toh Moau Yong , Jia Dekui
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates the effects of monetary policy on the simultaneous adjustments in asset portfolio risk and capital of banks amidst the uncertainty of the COVID‐19 pandemic, focusing on the 12 largest economies from 2018 Q1 to 2021 Q4. Results indicate that banks show lower portfolio risk and capital levels when the monetary policy stance is eased. However, amid heightened pandemic uncertainty, the risk‐reducing effect of monetary policy on banks amplifies, while bank capital levels remain unchanged. Heterogeneity analyses reveal that banks with higher levels of diversification and herding are more responsive to interest rates amid pandemic uncertainty, exhibiting lower risk exposure in their asset portfolios. Banks in countries adopting negative interest rate policies also tend to assume greater asset risk to accommodate the intended stimulus of monetary policies.
Climate transition risk and corporate environment, social and governance performance: Evidence from Chinese listed companies
Authors: Chen Jinyu , Qiu Yixin , Ding Qian , Geng Yuan
Published: September 2024

Using a sample taken from Chinese A‐share listed companies from 2010 to 2020, we explore the effect of climate transition risk on corporate environment, social and governance (ESG) performance. Our finding shows that climate transition risk promotes corporate ESG performance. In addition, we discover that equity incentives play an important positive moderating role in the above relationship. Compared with positive media tone, the positive effect of climate transition risk on corporate ESG performance is more significant under the moderating effect of a negative media tone. Further analyses find that there exists a more prominent relationship between climate transition risk and corporate ESG performance in non‐state‐owned enterprises, enterprises with more female directors, and enterprises in highly market‐oriented regions. Our findings provide a reference to improve ESG practice to achieve corporate sustainable development and provide practical suggestions for better dealing with climate transition risk.
A case of retrocaval ureter with robot‐assisted ureteral reconstruction
Authors: Hakariya Tomoaki , Aoki Daiyu , Nishimura Naoki
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Retrocaval ureter is a rare congenital anomaly that causes ureteral obstruction. Because of the rarity of retrocaval ureter, only a few cases of open, laparoscopic, or robot‐assisted surgery have been reported. We herein report a case of retrocaval ureter that was successfully reconstructed with robot‐assisted surgery.

Case presentation

A 24‐year‐old woman was incidentally diagnosed with right hydronephrosis on ultrasonography. Computed tomography revealed retrocaval ureter, and the right hydronephrosis was attributed to the retrocaval ureter. The patient underwent robot‐assisted right ureteral reconstruction in the left lateral decubitus position. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred, and no right hydronephrosis was observed 6 months after the operation.

Conclusion

The present case demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of robot‐assisted ureteral reconstruction for retrocaval ureter.
Poly(methylphenylsilylenemethylene) – the carbosilane analog of poly(α ‐methylstyrene)
Authors: Koopmann F. , Burgath A. , Knischka R. , Leukel J. , Frey H.
Published: September 2024

The carbosilane analog of poly(α‐methylstyrene), poly(methylphenylsilylenemethylene) (PMPSM) has been prepared by ring‐opening polymerization of l,3‐dimethyl‐I,3‐diphenyl‐l,3‐disilacyclobutane (1), using various transition‐metal‐based catalysts in bulk and in solution samples from polymerization in bulk and in solution, respectively, were characterized by GPC coupled with on‐line low‐angle laser light scattering (LALLS) and viscometry. Absolute molecular weights were in the range of 200 000; however, polymerization in solution afforded higher yields of PMPSM. Polymerizations generally yielded atactic PMPSM with strictly alternating SiR1R2/CH2 backbone structure and monomodal molecular weight distribution. Radical and cationic initiators proved to be unable to effect polymerization. Polymerization of pure trans‐1 afforded PMPSM without isotactic triads. Stcreoregularity as well as polymer yields increased when polymerization was performed at low temperatures (–32 °C). Thermal properties of PMPSM were investigated. TGA analysis evidenced better thermal stability of PMPSM than poly(α‐mcthylstyrene). PMPSM shows a Tg at 28 °C, which lies between the glass transition of poly(α‐methylstyrcne) and that of poly(methylphenylsiloxane), suggesting that poly(silylenemethylenes) may structurally be ranged between the analogous carbon‐based polymers and the highly flexible poly(siloxanes).
Location of ethylene–propylene copolymer in polypropylene‐polyethylene blends examined by laser confocal fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Li L. , Chen L. , Bruin P. , Winnik M. A. , Jao Tse‐Chi
Published: September 2024

Films composed of a mixture of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE, 14wt.‐%), polypropylene (PP, 81 wt.‐%) and poly(ethylene‐co‐propylene) (EPR, 60/40 E/P, 5 wt.‐%) were prepared by compression molding, and examined by laser confocal fluorescence microscopy (LCFM). In these experiments, the EPR copolymer was labeled with a small quantity (ca. 0.5 mol‐%) of a fluorescein derivative to render the copolymer fluorescent. The polymer mixture was prepared by precipitation from hot xylene solution into acetone, leading to particles of submicrometer size. Initial films showed uniform dye distribution and no indication of phase segregation on the scale of optical microscopy resolution (ca. 300 nm). Sample annealing at 175 °C, followed by rapid cooling to room temperature, led to phase separation, yielding samples with PE droplets dispersed in a PP matrix. Since EPR is the only labeled species, its location in the system could be determined by its fluorescence, and the confocal optics of the LCFM system permitted in situ depth profiling. In films containing ordinary LLDPE, the EPR was located as patches on the PE droplets surface. When the PE component was a maleated LLDPE, the EPR copolymer dissolved uniformly in the PE phase. The driving force for this miscibility is likely due to interaction of acid groups on the PE with polar substituents on the labeled EP.
Nebivolol hydrochloride and its impurities induce pseudo‐allergic reactions via mast cell activation
Authors: Yu Liju , Shan Yi , Lu Jiayu , He Huaizhen
Published: September 2024

Nebivolol hydrochloride is a third‐generation β‐blocker commonly used to treat cardiovascular diseases. However, it has been reported to induce allergic reactions in clinical use which deserves much attention. Therefore, this study focused on the ability of two isomers of nebivolol and chiral isomer impurities to induce allergic reactions. Our findings demonstrate that both nebivolol and two isomeric impurities can activate mast cell degranulation in vitro and show significant retention on Mas‐related G‐protein‐coupled receptor X2 (MRGPRX2)‐HEK293 cell membrane chromatography. These effects were further validated in vivo, where nebivolol and impurity IP‐3 were observed to cause toe swelling and mast cell degranulation in mice. Molecular docking studies revealed interactions between these compounds and key amino acids of MRGPRX2, suggesting a mechanism for the induced allergic reactions. This work lays the foundation for improving the clinical safety of nebivolol.
Exploring Chemical Space to Identify Partial Binders Against hMPV Nucleocapsid Protein
Authors: Verma Monika , Panchal Nikita S. , Yadav Pramod Kumar
Published: September 2024

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) has gained prominence in recent times as the predominant etiological agent of acute respiratory tract infections. This virus targets children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Given the protracted duration of hMPV transmission, it is probable that the majority of children will have acquired the virus by the age of 5. In individuals with compromised immune systems, recurrence of hMPV infection is possible. As hMPV matures, it remains latent from the time of acquisition. The genome of hMPV encompasses a pivotal protein referred to as the nucleocapsid protein (N). This protein assumes the form of a left‐handed helical nucleocapsid, enveloping the viral RNA genome. The primary function of this structure is to protect nucleases, rendering it a potentially promising target for therapeutic advancements. The present study employs a methodology that involves structure‐based virtual screening, followed by molecular dynamics simulation at a 250‐ns time scale, to identify potential natural molecules or their derivatives from the ZINC Database. These molecules are investigated for their binding properties against the hMPV nucleoprotein. Based on an evaluation of the docking score, binding site interaction, and molecular dynamics studies, it has been found that two naturally occurring molecules, namely M1 (ZINC85629735) and M3 (ZINC85569125), have shown notable docking scores of −9.6 and −10.7 kcal/mol, acceptable RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and so on calculated from molecular dynamics trajectory associated with MMGBSA binding energy of −81.94 and −99.63 kcal/mol, respectively. These molecules have shown the highest binding affinity toward nucleocapsid protein and demonstrated promising attributes as potential binders against hMPV.
Chassis: The bottleneck to trade and transportation
Authors: Stich Bethany , Camp Janey , Mallum Faisal B. , Philip Craig , Waggener Brittany , Bullock Bailey , Moravec Miguel
Published: September 2024

International trade requires efficient delivery of goods between exporting and importing countries, normally via ocean vessels. About 90% of these cargoes are transported in shipping containers to the port by truck or rail. The intermodal chassis availability is a critical component of the supply chain. This paper provides an overview of the nuances and challenges associated with the current provisioning of chassis in New Orleans, LA and Memphis, TN, through in‐depth interviews with industry professionals. Increased dwell times, inventory issues and chassis management inefficiencies over the past several years have caused expensive delays and bottlenecks at nodes of intermodal freight.
Vgll2 as an integrative regulator of mitochondrial function and contractility specific to skeletal muscle
Authors: Honda Masahiko , Inoue Ryota , Nishiyama Kuniyuki , Ueda Takeshi , Komuro Akiyoshi , Amano Hisayuki , Sugisawa Ryoichi , Dash Suman , Shirakawa Jun , Okada Hitoshi
Published: September 2024

During skeletal muscle adaptation to physiological or pathophysiological signals, contractile apparatus and mitochondrial function are coordinated to alter muscle fiber type. Although recent studies have identified various factors involved in modifying contractile proteins and mitochondrial function, the molecular mechanisms coordinating contractile and metabolic functions during muscle fiber transition are not fully understood. Using a gene‐deficient mouse approach, our previous studies uncovered that vestigial‐like family member 2 (Vgll2), a skeletal muscle‐specific transcription cofactor activated by exercise, is essential for fast‐to‐slow adaptation of skeletal muscle. The current study provides evidence that Vgll2 plays a role in increasing muscle mitochondrial mass and oxidative capacity. Transgenic Vgll2 overexpression in mice altered muscle fiber composition toward the slow type and enhanced exercise endurance, which contradicted the outcomes observed with Vgll2 deficiency. Vgll2 expression was positively correlated with the expression of genes related to mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle, mitochondrial DNA content, and protein abundance of oxidative phosphorylation complexes. Additionally, Vgll2 overexpression significantly increased the maximal respiration of isolated muscle fibers and enhanced the suppressive effects of endurance training on weight gain. Notably, no additional alteration in expression of myosin heavy chain genes was observed after exercise, suggesting that Vgll2 plays a direct role in regulating mitochondrial function, independent of its effect on contractile components. The observed increase in exercise endurance and metabolic efficiency may be attributed to the acute upregulation of genes promoting fatty acid utilization as a direct consequence of Vgll2 activation facilitated by endurance exercise. Thus, the current study establishes that Vgll2 is an integrative regulator of mitochondrial function and contractility in skeletal muscle.
Impact of an immersive engineering program on children's understanding of and interest in engineering: Addressing gender stereotypes
Authors: Schonning Alexandra , Perez Susan M.
Published: September 2024

Background

The gender gap in engineering presents a critical barrier to achieving a diverse and innovative engineering workforce. This gap is influenced by gender stereotypes, socialization processes, masculine culture, and insufficient early experiences with engineering. These contribute to diminished STEM self‐concept, interest, and participation among women.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This study assessed an engineering outreach program's impact on children's understanding of and interest in engineering and beliefs about who can be an engineer. It compared whether discussions of gender bias differentially influenced these outcomes for girls and boys.

Design/Method

The study was a short‐term sequential quasi‐experimental design with boys and girls in grades 4–5. Six classroom groups attended a half‐day engineering field trip and were randomly assigned to two conditions: Gender Presentation or No Gender Presentation. Pre‐ and post‐program surveys measured changes in understanding of and interest in engineering and beliefs about who can be an engineer.

Results

All children, regardless of gender or condition, had higher understanding of and interest in engineering after the program, but also demonstrated a bias in selecting men over women as engineers. Participants reported that both girls and boys like and are good at engineering and these ratings increased from the pre‐program to the post‐program survey.

Conclusion

This research affirms the effectiveness of immersive and inclusive programming in enhancing children's understanding of and interest in engineering. No substantial gender‐specific differences emerged regarding the impact of discussions on gender biases. The program underscores the value of early inclusive educational interventions in fostering equitable interest in engineering among young students.
Clavicular tunnel widening in chronic acromioclavicular joint instabilities after primary versus revision arthroscopically‐assisted acromio‐ and coracoclavicular stabilization
Authors: Vetter Philipp , Bellmann Frederik , Eckl Larissa , Lazaridou Asimina , Scheibel Markus
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To evaluate joint reduction (loss of reduction [LOR]; dynamic posterior translation [DPT]) and clavicular tunnel widening (cTW) in patients treated with arthroscopically‐assisted acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) stabilization after previously failed nonoperative versus surgical treatment.

Methods

Patients undergoing arthroscopically‐assisted ACJ stabilization (bidirectional tendon allograft with a low‐profile TightRope) after previously failed nonoperative versus surgical treatment were included retrospectively. Bilateral anteroposterior stress views served for evaluating LOR (side‐comparative coracoclavicular distance [CCD]) and cTW at a 6‐weeks‐ and 6‐months‐follow‐up (FU) and for evaluating the filling ratio (FR, vertical device insertion depth relative to clavicle height) at the 6‐weeks‐FU. Postoperative DPT was assessed on Alexander's views.

Results

Twenty‐seven patients (20 male, mean age 46.1 ± 14.8 years) were included (prior treatment: nonoperative: n = 15; surgical: n = 12). There were no differences in LOR, DPT or cTW between groups postoperatively. Initial CCD‐symmetry at the 6‐weeks‐FU (CCD: −0.1 mm [95% confidence interval, CI, −2 to 1.4 mm]) was followed by LOR at the 6‐months‐FU (CCD: −3.5 mm [95% CI, −5.2 to −1.9 mm]; p < 0.001). cTW increased towards the inferior cortex, compared to the superior cortex and the intermediate level (p < 0.001, respectively). cTW at the inferior cortex was associated with more LOR (r = −0.449; p = 0.024) and DPT (r = 0.421; p = 0.036), dependent on a smaller FR (r = −0.430; p = 0.032).

Conclusion

Patients undergoing arthroscopically‐assisted ACJ stabilization for chronic bidirectional ACJ instabilities showed comparable radiologic results after previous nonoperative versus surgical treatment. cTW increased towards the inferior cortex and was associated with recurrent vertical and horizontal instability, related to a smaller FR. More research into reduced cTW, for example, by a more filling device, should be performed.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Enhancing patient information texts in orthopaedics: How OpenAI's ‘ChatGPT’ can help
Authors: Yüce Ali , Yerli Mustafa , Misir Abdulhamit , Çakar Murat
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The internet has become a primary source for patients seeking healthcare information, but the quality of online information, particularly in orthopaedics, often falls short. Orthopaedic surgeons now have the added responsibility of evaluating and guiding patients to credible online resources. This study aimed to assess ChatGPT's ability to identify deficiencies in patient information texts related to total hip arthroplasty websites and to evaluate its potential for enhancing the quality of these texts.

Methods

In August 2023, 25 websites related to total hip arthroplasty were assessed using a standardized search on Google. Peer‐reviewed scientific articles, empty pages, dictionary definitions, and unrelated content were excluded. The remaining 10 websites were evaluated using the hip information scoring system (HISS). ChatGPT was then used to assess these texts, identify deficiencies and provide recommendations.

Results

The mean HISS score of the websites was 9.5, indicating low to moderate quality. However, after implementing ChatGPT's suggested improvements, the score increased to 21.5, signifying excellent quality. ChatGPT's recommendations included using simpler language, adding FAQs, incorporating patient experiences, addressing cost and insurance issues, detailing preoperative and postoperative phases, including references, and emphasizing emotional and psychological support. The study demonstrates that ChatGPT can significantly enhance patient information quality.

Conclusion

ChatGPT's role in elevating patient education regarding total hip arthroplasty is promising. This study sheds light on the potential of ChatGPT as an aid to orthopaedic surgeons in producing high‐quality patient information materials. Although it cannot replace human expertise, it offers a valuable means of enhancing the quality of healthcare information available online.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Edge‐transitive cubic graphs of twice square‐free order
Authors: Liu Gui Xian , Lu Zai Ping
Published: September 2024

A graph is edge‐transitive if its automorphism group acts transitively on the edge set. This paper presents a complete classification for connected edge‐transitive cubic graphs of order , where is even and square‐free. In particular, it is shown that such a graph is either symmetric or isomorphic to one of the following graphs: a semisymmetric graph of order 420, a semisymmetric graph of order 29,260, and five families of semisymmetric graphs constructed from the simple group .
Fractional factors and component factors in graphs with isolated toughness smaller than 1
Authors: Wolf Isaak H.
Published: September 2024

Let be a simple graph and let be two integers with . We prove that for every if and only if has a ‐factor, where denotes the number of isolated vertices of and is a special family of trees. Furthermore, we characterize the trees in in terms of their bipartition.
In the attic of dreams. The personal archives of the father of paradoxical sleep
Authors: Roelli Michael
Published: September 2024

Michel Jouvet (1925–2017) is one of the most important figures in the contemporary history of the neuroscience of sleep and dreams, and one of the most awarded French researchers of the last century. Yet this former CNRS gold medalist and winner of the Cino Del Duca World Prize remains little known—not to say unknown—outside the field of sleep medicine, especially in non‐French‐speaking countries, where the name of his American counterpart, William C. Dement, is more familiar. Often reduced to his experiments on cats and the discovery of what he called “paradoxical sleep,” Jouvet left behind a rather unique body of work that includes not only countless publications on sleep and dreams—neurophysiological as well as ethnological and psychological—but also major contributions to clinical medicine, two novels and an impressive collection of personal dream accounts and drawings, which now make it possible to explore the nocturnal side of the last 50 years of his life. This article draws on unpublished archives to illuminate all these little‐known and unknown aspects of Jouvet's life and work, highlighting his hidden links with 19th‐century scientific oneirology and bringing to light its paradoxes.
Multicomponent Assembling of Aldehydes, N,N‐Dimethylbarbituric Acid, Malononitrile, and Morpholine Into Unsymmetrical Ionic Scaffold and Its Efficient Cyclization
Authors: Elinson Michail N. , Ryzhkova Yuliya E. , Kalashnikova Varvara M. , Chizhov Alexander O. , Egorov Mikhail P.
Published: September 2024

The new type of the four‐component tandem Knoevenagel–Michael reaction was discovered: the transformation of arylaldehydes, N,N′‐dimethylbarbituric acid, malononitrile, and morpholine in alcohols and other organic solvents without any other additives at ambient temperature resulted in the selective formation of a new substituted unsymmetrical ionic scaffold with two pharmacology‐active heterocyclic rings. This new four‐component reaction is a simple and efficient route to a previously unknown substituted ionic unsymmetrical scaffold containing N,N′‐dimethylbarbituric acid and morpholine. These ionic scaffolds are promising for various biomedical applications, for example, as anticonvulsants and anti‐inflammatory drugs, as well as anti‐AIDS agents. In this research, we also accomplished the efficient cyclization of morpholin‐4‐ium 5‐(2,2‐dicya‐no‐1‐arylethyl)‐1,3‐dimethyl‐2,6‐di‐oxo‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydro‐pyrimidin‐4‐olates by the action of NBS–NaOAc system, with the formation of 5,7‐dimethyl‐4,6,8‐trioxo‐2‐aryl‐5,7‐diazaspiro[2.5]octane‐1,1‐dicarbonitriles in 83%–98% yields. In the final stage of our research, direct one‐pot multicomponent transformation of benzaldehydes, N,N′‐dimethylbarbituric acid, and malononitrile into spirobarbituric cyclopropanes was accomplished in 75%–97% yields. The spiro‐barbituric cyclopropanes are potentially active as remedies against various inflammatory, infectious, immunological, or malignant diseases.
Compact and low‐loss IPD bandpass filter using 3D glass‐based redistribution layer technology
Authors: Li HangXing , Cao Yazi , Zhao Peng , Wang Gaofeng
Published: September 2024

A low‐loss miniaturized bandpass filter is presented using 3D glass‐based RDL packaging technology. A new topology consisting of one modified Pi‐section and one modified T‐section is introduced to generate three transmission zeros which can achieve the high out‐of‐band rejection. A combination of 2D planar inductors and high‐Q 3D inductors is used to achieve low insertion loss and minimize the filter size. In addition, one grounded resonator at input terminal is introduced to generate an extra transmission zero in the low end. The proposed bandpass filter covering 3.3–4.2 GHz is fabricated with a compact size of 1.6 mm × 0.8 mm × 0.25 mm. It exhibits an insertion loss of less than 1.0 dB at a center frequency of 3.75GHz and a return loss of better than 14 dB. The proposed design has a 3 dB fractional bandwidth of 37.6%. Its out‐of‐band rejection is better than 20 dB at the low frequency band from DC to 2.0 GHz and better than 19 dB at the high frequency band from 5.0 to 9.0 GHz. The simulated and measured results of the proposed BPF are in reasonably good agreement.