bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Spectrogel clay as a support for immobilization of lipase from Burkholderia cepacia
Authors: Molinari Deise , da Silva Edson Antonio , Aranha Ana Caroline Raimundini , Paschoal Sirlei Marques , Martin Lucas Serra , Arroyo Pedro Augusto , Canevesi Rafael Luan Sehn , Zanin Gisella Maria
Published: October 2024

The interest in maximizing the production of ethyl esters in a sustainable way and with lower energy costs has increased the use of immobilized enzymes as catalysts. This study aimed to apply the commercial clay Spectrogel® as a support for the immobilization of lipase from Burkholderia cepacia by adsorption and covalent bonding methods. The immobilizations were carried out using a 23 factorial design to study the effects of the activity offered (U g−1), pH, and the molar concentration of the enzyme solution buffer (mol L−1) on the enzyme activity obtained (U g−1). From the statistical analysis of the results, the best conditions for immobilization were pH 7.0 and 0.1 mol L−1 for both tested immobilization methods, with the best offered activity being 5709 and 7600 U g−1. The activities obtained were 1219.81 ± 7.51 and 1274.89 ± 14.99 U g−1 for adsorption and covalent bonding, respectively. The biocatalysts exhibited protein leaching of 33.55 ± 1.08% and 19.44 ± 2.43% when immobilized by adsorption and covalent bonding, respectively. The optimal activity temperature and thermal stability were obtained at 40°C. Additionally, the immobilization of lipase in Spectrogel® by both methods was efficient, showing higher thermal stability than the free enzyme. Thus, this work contributed scientifically to the development of a new and economical biocatalyst for ethyl ester production.
Cerebellar Molecular Signatures in Non‐Human Primates
Authors: Yamamoto Tatsuya , Yoshida Yuko , Ose Takayuki , Murata Yumi , Hayashi Takuya , Higo Noriyuki
Published: October 2024

Cerebellar molecular signatures in primates remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigated the immunoreactivity of neuroplasticity‐related molecular markers, including aldolase C (Aldoc), phospholipase C beta 3 (PLCB3), and phospholipase C beta 4 (PLCB4) in the cerebellar cortex and associated nuclei of rhesus macaque monkeys (Macaca mulatta). Our main findings are as follows: First, the cerebellar vermis in macaques exhibited striped compartmentalization for all markers, with the striped expression boundary of PLCB3 being less distinct than those of Aldoc and PLCB4. Second, the striped pattern was less pronounced in the cerebellar hemisphere compared to the vermis, with signals in the hemisphere being predominantly intense throughout. Third, distinct zonal patterns and elevated signals for Aldoc and PLCB3 were observed in the cerebellar deep nuclei. Specifically, the fastigial nucleus displayed intense Aldoc signals in both caudal and rostral regions, while the dentate nucleus displayed strong Aldoc signals in both ventral and dorsal regions. Compared to previous rodent studies, the macaque cerebellum demonstrated a higher proportion of intense signal areas and distinct compartmentalization patterns in both cortical and deep nuclei. These findings offer crucial insights into the unique molecular organization of the primate cerebellum, enhancing our understanding of the advanced neuroplasticity, cognitive, and motor capabilities in primates.
A Multiscale Mathematical Model for the Fetal Blood Circulation of the Second Half of Pregnancy
Authors: van Willigen Bettine G. , van der Hout‐van der Jagt M. Beatrijs , Bovendeerd Peter H. M. , Huberts Wouter , van de Vosse Frans N.
Published: October 2024

Doppler ultrasound is a commonly used method to assess hemodynamics of the fetal cardiovascular system and to monitor the well‐being of the fetus. Indices based on the velocity profile are often used for diagnosis. However, precisely linking these indices to specific underlying physiology factors is challenging. Several influences, including wave reflections, fetal growth, vessel stiffness, and resistance distal to the vessel, contribute to these indices. Understanding these data is essential for making informed clinical decisions. Mathematical models can be used to investigate the relation between velocity profiles and physiological properties. This study presents a mathematical model designed to simulate velocity wave propagation throughout the fetal cardiovascular system, facilitating the assessment of factors influencing velocity‐based indices. The model combines a one‐fiber model of the heart with a 1D wave propagation model describing the larger vessels of the circulatory system and a lumped parameter model for the microcirculation. Fetal growth from 20 to 40 weeks of gestational age is incorporated by adjusting cardiac and circulatory parameter settings according to scaling laws. The model's results, including cardiac function, cardiac output distribution, and volume distribution, show a good agreement with literature studies for a growing healthy fetus from 20 to 40 weeks. In addition, Doppler indices are simulated in various vessels and agree with literature as well. In conclusion, this study introduces a novel closed‐loop 0D‐1D mathematical model that has been verified against literature studies. This model offers a valuable platform for analyzing factors influencing velocity‐based indices in the fetal cardiovascular system.
Navigating industrial performance: Impact of corporate social responsibility on sustainable development with moderation of reverse supply chain management
Authors: Tian Huawei , Pertheban Thillai Raja , Han Xuhui
Published: October 2024

Although several studies ensured the essentiality of corporate social responsibility (CSR) with respect to sustainable development (SD) from various domains, worldwide. Nonetheless, this study explores the nexus among CSR practices (i.e., social responsibility, environmental responsibility, employee responsibility, customer responsibility, supplier responsibility, and govt. rules & regulation responsibility) on SD (i.e., social development, economic development, and environmental development) from the mainstream of Chinese industrial sector drawing on stakeholder theory. Second, this study investigates the moderating influence of reverse supply chain management (RSCM) to sense how these forces may impact the association between CSR and SD. After evaluation and by implementing a structural approach, the results affirmed the positive linkages between CSR and SD along with each CSR's dimension toward sustainable development. Finally, the study confirmed a positive connection of RSCM as a moderator between CSR and SD. Besides, certain implications are listed for the management along with shortcomings and future directions for academic scholars to extend studies for additional validation across the globe.
Resilience of Juvenile Freshwater Pearl Mussels to Thermal Stress
Authors: Wacker Sebastian , Sundt Katrine Åmdal , Mageroy Jon Hamner , Larsen Bjørn Mejdell , Hagen Chavindi Sophie , Horvli Torill , Robertsen Grethe
Published: October 2024

Climate change poses a significant threat to freshwater ecosystems by causing increases of average water temperatures, and more frequent and extreme heating events. Freshwater mussels are declining globally, and the distribution of the freshwater pearl mussel (Margeritifera margeritifera) has decreased dramatically over the past century. Even though it is likely that climate change is contributing to the decline of the species, little is known about the specific mechanisms involved. Here, we test how short episodes of water temperatures above the known thermotolerance range affect the survival and growth of the early post parasitic juvenile phase of freshwater pearl mussels. We also test if previous experience with elevated water temperatures can modify survival and growth responses to subsequent high‐temperatures exposure. Mortality was very low in all treatments (< 5%) and not affected by the temperature treatments, while growth rate was positively affected by temperature. Our results suggest that juvenile mussels can survive short periods of heat stress when other environmental conditions are favourable. Future studies should therefore address how heat stress affects survival in combination with other stressors, such as reduced availability of dissolved oxygen.
The primacy of density‐mediated indirect effects in a community of wolves, elk, and aspen
Authors: Brice Elaine M. , Larsen Eric J. , Stahler Daniel R. , MacNulty Daniel R.
Published: October 2024

The removal or addition of a predator in an ecosystem can trigger a trophic cascade, whereby the predator indirectly influences plants and/or abiotic processes via direct effects on its herbivore prey. A trophic cascade can operate through a density‐mediated indirect effect (DMIE), where the predator reduces herbivore density via predation, and/or through a trait‐mediated indirect effect (TMIE), where the predator induces an herbivore trait response that modifies the herbivore's effect on plants. Manipulative experiments suggest that TMIEs are an equivalent or more important driver of trophic cascades than are DMIEs. Whether this applies generally in nature is uncertain because few studies have directly compared the magnitudes of TMIEs and DMIEs on natural unmanipulated field patterns. A TMIE is often invoked to explain the textbook trophic cascade involving wolves (Canis lupus), elk (Cervus canadensis), and aspen (Populus tremuloides) in northern Yellowstone National Park. This hypothesis posits that wolves indirectly increase recruitment of young aspen into the overstory primarily through reduced elk browsing in response to spatial variation in wolf predation risk rather than through reduced elk population density. To test this hypothesis, we compared the effects of spatiotemporal variation in wolf predation risk and temporal variation in elk population density on unmanipulated patterns of browsing and recruitment of young aspen across 113 aspen stands over a 21‐year period (1999–2019) in northern Yellowstone National Park. Only 2 of 10 indices of wolf predation risk had statistically meaningful effects on browsing and recruitment of young aspen, and these effects were 8–28 times weaker than the effect of elk density. To the extent that temporal variation in elk density was attributable to wolf predation, our results suggest that the wolf–elk–aspen trophic cascade was primarily density‐mediated rather than trait‐mediated. This aligns with the alternative hypothesis that wolves and other actively hunting predators with broad habitat domains cause DMIEs to dominate whenever prey, such as elk, also have a broad habitat domain. For at least this type of predator–prey community, our study suggests that risk‐induced trait responses can be abstracted or ignored while still achieving an accurate understanding of trophic cascades.
Visit‐to‐visit changes in heart rate in heart failure: A pooled participant‐level analysis of the PARADIGM‐HF and PARAGON‐HF trials
Authors: Lu Henri , Claggett Brian L. , Packer Milton , Pfeffer Marc A. , Swedberg Karl , Rouleau Jean , Zile Michael R. , Lefkowitz Martin , Desai Akshay S. , Jhund Pardeep S. , McMurray John J.V. , Solomon Scott D. , Vaduganathan Muthiah
Published: October 2024

Aims

Resting heart rate (HR) is a strong risk marker in patients with heart failure (HF), but the clinical implications of visit‐to‐visit changes in HR (ΔHR) are less well established. We aimed to explore the association between ΔHR and subsequent outcomes in a pooled dataset of two well‐characterized cohorts of patients with HF across the full range of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Methods and results

PARADIGM‐HF and PARAGON‐HF were randomized trials testing sacubitril/valsartan versus enalapril or valsartan, respectively, in patients with HF and LVEF ≤40% (PARADIGM‐HF) or LVEF ≥45% (PARAGON‐HF). We analysed the association between ΔHR from the preceding visit with the primary endpoint of HF hospitalization (HFH) or cardiovascular death using covariate‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards models. A total of 13 194 patients (mean age 67 ± 11 years, 67% men, mean LVEF 40 ± 15%) were included. Over a median follow‐up of 2.5 years, 3114 patients experienced a first HFH or cardiovascular death event (10.4 events per 100 patient‐years). An increase in HR from the preceding visit, compared with no change, was associated with a higher risk (hazard ratio 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–1.15; p < 0.001 per 5 bpm increase). Conversely, a drop in HR was associated with a lower risk (hazard ratio 0.97; 95% CI 0.94–1.00; p = 0.044 per 5 bpm drop). The prognostic implications of ΔHR were consistent across the range of LVEF and observed regardless of β‐blocker use or presence of a permanent pacemaker. Visit‐to‐visit increases in HR were especially prognostic in patients without atrial fibrillation (pinteraction = 0.006).

Conclusion

Across a broad spectrum of patients with chronic HF, increases in HR from a preceding visit independently predicted clinical outcomes. The detection of notable increases in HR between outpatient visits may help identify patients at heightened risk of adverse events.

Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01035255 (PARADIGM‐HF), NCT01920711 (PARAGON‐HF).
AOP report: Development of an adverse outcome pathway for deposition of energy leading to abnormal vascular remodeling
Authors: Kozbenko Tatiana , Adam Nadine , Grybas Veronica S. , Smith Benjamin J. , Alomar Dalya , Hocking Robyn , Abdelaziz Janna , Pace Amanda , Boerma Marjan , Azimzadeh Omid , Blattnig Steve , Hamada Nobuyuki , Yauk Carole , Wilkins Ruth , Chauhan Vinita
Published: October 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are complex, encompassing many types of heart pathophysiologies and associated etiologies. Radiotherapy studies have shown that fractionated radiation exposure at high doses (3–17 Gy) to the heart increases the incidence of CVD. However, the effects of low doses of radiation on the cardiovascular system or the effects from space travel, where radiation and microgravity are important contributors to damage, are not clearly understood. Herein, the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework was applied to develop an AOP to abnormal vascular remodeling from the deposition of energy. Following the creation of a preliminary pathway with the guidance of field experts and authoritative reviews, a scoping review was conducted that informed final key event (KE) selection and evaluation of the Bradford Hill criteria for the KE relationships (KERs). The AOP begins with a molecular initiating event of deposition of energy; ionization events increase oxidative stress, which when persistent concurrently causes the release of pro‐inflammatory mediators, suppresses anti‐inflammatory mechanisms and alters stress response signaling pathways. These KEs alter nitric oxide levels leading to endothelial dysfunction, and subsequent abnormal vascular remodeling (the adverse outcome). The work identifies evidence needed to strengthen understanding of the causal associations for the KERs, emphasizing where there are knowledge gaps and uncertainties in both qualitative and quantitative understanding. The AOP is anticipated to direct future research to better understand the effects of space on the human body and potentially develop countermeasures to better protect future space travelers.
Deployment of Dedicative Nanoadditives to Enhance the Thermal Behavior and Effectiveness of Heat Transfer Performance of Eutectic Compound
Authors: Govindaraja Gururaj , Duraipandi Sruthi , A. Sreekumar
Published: October 2024

Two nanoprecursors with capping agents were incorporated in stearyl alcohol–adipic acid combination phase change material (PCM) in this study. The addition of nanomaterials made the eutectic reliable in the manner of its thermal properties like higher enthalpy, degradation point, and more compatible with the metal encapsulation materials when compared with the pristane eutectic. The importance of nano‐metal oxides in parent material was shown by the reduced time frame of the PCM's thermal energy storing and releasing process for space heating applications. The specific heat capacity of both the aluminum and titanium oxide nanocomposites were greater than the eutectic, which indicates that the material can retain more energy. The thermal conductivities of base material and nanocomposite PCMs were 0.2686, 0.2815, and 0.4395 W/mK at 40°C, and the highest percentage increment of nanocomposites was seen as 9.19% and 63.62% at varied encircled temperatures. The crystal structure and chemical disintegration were evinced with the X‐ray diffractometer results of the composites.
Terpenoids from quinoa reverse chemoresistance in breast cancer by suppressing the stemness‐related lncRNA 667012
Authors: Fan Xiaxia , Feng Mangmang , Guo Dan , Li Songtao , An Yuxuan , Tian Jinmiao , Li Zhuoyu
Published: October 2024

Chemoresistance is a major cause of breast cancer (BC) recurrence and metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance comes from tumor stemness. Our previous study showed that quinoa bran terpenoids (QBT) exhibited significant antitumor activity. In this study, we found that QBT increased the sensitivity of drug‐resistant BC cells to the chemotherapeutic drugs adriamycin (ADR) and taxol (TAX). A novel lncRNA 667012 was identified along with QBT treatment. Moreover, overexpression of lncRNA 667012 promoted drug resistance, and the reduction of 667012 restored the drug sensitivity of resistant BC cells. More importantly, the findings revealed that lncRNA 667012 promoted stemness maintenance via the stemness‐related Wnt pathway. Furthermore, the result showed that QBT reduced 667012 expression and inhibited the activation of β‐catenin, thereby attenuating the stemness characteristics of BC and enhancing chemosensitivity. Consistently, the data were confirmed in the xenograft mice model. These results suggest that QBT could reverse chemoresistance by inhibiting stemness. It has the potential to be developed as a novel chemotherapeutic agent or chemosensitizer for BC treatment.
Comparative effect of olive oil and flaxseed oil on drug induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Khan Waqas Ahmad , Inam‐ur‐Raheem Muhammad , Rasheed Hina , Butt Muhammad Abdullah , Saeed Farhan , Afzaal Muhammad , Ahmed Faiyaz , Akram Noor , Asghar Aasma , Hailu Gebremichael Gebremedhin
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the hepatoprotective effects of olive oil and flaxseed oil on chemically induced hepatotoxicity in rats by evaluating key biochemical parameters, including free fatty acids, iodine value, liver enzymes (ALP, ALT, AST), cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL levels. The results demonstrated significant improvements in these markers with the administration of olive oil and flaxseed oil, either individually or in combination. The free fatty acid percentages and iodine values were consistent with the known nutritional properties of the oils. Notably, the combination of olive oil and flaxseed oil yielded the most substantial benefits, reducing ALP (115.53 ± 0.44 U/L), ALT (50.77 ± 1.46 U/L), and AST (52.12 ± 0.36 U/L) levels while improving lipid profiles by lowering cholesterol (135.4 ± 1.43 mg/dL) and triglyceride levels (57.14 ± 2.35 mg/dL) and increasing HDL levels (49.20 ± 0.45 mg/dL). These findings suggest that olive oil and flaxseed oil, due to their antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties, can effectively mitigate liver damage and promote lipid metabolism. The study supports the potential therapeutic application of these oils in managing liver health and preventing hepatotoxicity.
Sauerkraut‐derived LAB strains as potential probiotic candidates for modulating carbohydrate digestion attributing bacterial organic acid profiling to antidiabetic activity
Authors: Huligere Sujay S. , Kumari V. B. Chandana , Patil Shashank M. , M.K. Jayanthi , Wong Ling Shing , Kijsomporn Jureerat , Al‐Tamimi Jameel H. , Ramu Ramith
Published: October 2024

Sauerkraut‐derived lactic acid bacterial (LAB) strains have gained attention due to their potential health benefits. This study focuses on evaluating seven Sauerkraut‐derived RAMULAB strains isolated from sauerkraut, aiming to identify promising candidates for modulating α‐glucosidase (AG) and α‐amylase (AM) enzymatic functions. RAMULAB strains with remarkable probiotic potential can contribute to the digestive health and manage conditions like diabetes. Identifying robust candidates from sauerkraut, a fermented food, holds promise for natural and cost‐effective probiotic sources. The RAMULAB strains underwent extensive characterization, including identification through 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing. Their tolerance to harsh conditions, adherence properties, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant potential, and inhibition of AG and AM were assessed. In silico analyses explored their molecular interactions, particularly with hydroxycitric acid, a potential antidiabetic compound. Among the RAMULAB strains, RAMULAB48 emerged as a standout candidate. It displayed exceptional resilience to acidic bile (≥97%), and simulated gastrointestinal conditions (≥95%), highlighting its suitability for probiotic applications. RAMULAB48 exhibited robust adherence properties, including cell‐surface hydrophobicity (80%), autoaggregation (42%), coaggregation with pathogens (≥33%), and adhesion to epithelial cells. Additionally, all seven isolates demonstrated gamma‐hemolysis and resistance to antibiotics (Kanamycin, Methicillin, and Vancomycin), while displaying strong antibacterial properties against foodborne pathogens. These RAMULAB strains also exhibited varying degrees of antioxidant activity, with RAMULAB48 displaying the highest potential (≥41%). In terms of antidiabetic activity, cell‐free supernatant (CS) obtained from RAMULAB48 expressed the highest inhibition levels, notably inhibiting yeast AG by an impressive 59.55% and AM being by a remarkable 67.42%. RAMULAB48 produced organic acids, including hydroxycitric acid (28.024 mg/mL), which showed promising antidiabetic properties through in silico analyses, indicating favorable interactions with the target enzymes. This study identifies Lacticaseibacillus paracasei RAMULAB48, a Sauerkraut‐derived RAMULAB strain, as a promising probiotic candidate with exceptional tolerance, adherence properties, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant potential, and antidiabetic effects. The presence of hydroxycitric acid further underscores its potential in managing diabetes.
Inter‐Software Consistency on the Estimation of Subcortical Structure Volume in Different Age Groups
Authors: Zhang Lei , Hu Yang
Published: October 2024

There is still little research on the consistency among the subcortical volume estimates of different software packages. It is also unclear whether there are age‐related differences in the inter‐software consistency. The current study aimed to examine the consistency of three commonly used automated software packages and the effect of age on inter‐software consistency. We analyzed T1‐weighted structural images from two public datasets, in which the subjects were divided into four age groups ranging from childhood and adolescence to late adulthood. We chose three mainstream automated software packages including FreeSurfer, CAT, and FSL, to estimate the volumes of seven subcortical structures, including thalamus, caudate, putamen, pallidum, hippocampus, amygdala, and accumbens. We used the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) to quantify inter‐software consistency and compared the consistency measures among the age groups. As a measure of validity, we additionally evaluated the predictive power of each software package's estimates for predicting age. The results showed good inter‐software consistency in the thalamus, caudate, putamen, and hippocampus, moderate consistency in the pallidum, and poor consistency in the amygdala and accumbens. Significant differences in the inter‐software consistency were not observed among the age groups in most cases. FreeSurfer exhibited higher age prediction accuracy than CAT and FSL. The current study showed that the inter‐software consistency on the subcortical volume estimation varies with structures but generally not with age groups, which has important implications for the interpretation and reproducibility of neuroimaging findings.
Optical Biosensors for Detection of Cancer Biomarkers: Current and Future Perspectives
Authors: Moorthy Dharsini Narayana , Dhinasekaran Durgalakshmi , Rebecca P. N. Blessy , Rajendran Ajay Rakkesh
Published: October 2024

Optical biosensors are emerging as a promising technique for the sensitive and accurate detection of cancer biomarkers, enabling significant advancements in the field of early diagnosis. This study elaborates on the latest developments in optical biosensors designed for detecting cancer biomarkers, highlighting their vital significance in early cancer diagnosis. When combined with targeted nanoparticles, the bio‐fluids can help in the molecular stage diagnosis of cancer. This enhances the discrimination of disease from the normal subjects drastically. The optical sensor methods that are involved in the disease diagnosis and imaging of cancer taken for the present review are surface plasmon resonance, localized surface plasmon resonance, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy and colorimetric sensing. The article meticulously describes the specific biomarkers and analytes that optical biosensors target. Beyond elucidating the underlying principles and applications, this article furnishes an overview of recent breakthroughs and emerging trends in the field. This encompasses the evolution of innovative nanomaterials and nanostructures designed to augment sensitivity and the incorporation of microfluidics for facilitating point‐of‐care testing, thereby charting a course towards prospective advancements.
3D Neurovascular Unit Tissue Model to Assess Responses to Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Power Liam , Shuhmaher Rita , Houtz Philip , Chen Jinpeng , Rudolph Sara , Yuen John , Machour Majd , Levy Emily , Wu Limin , Levenberg Shulamit , Whalen Michael , Chen Ying , Kaplan David L.
Published: October 2024

The neurovascular unit (NVU) is a critical interface in the central nervous system that links vascular interactions with glial and neural tissue. Disruption of the NVU has been linked to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Despite its significance the NVU remains challenging to study in a physiologically relevant manner. Here, a 3D cell triculture model of the NVU is developed that incorporates human primary brain microvascular endothelial cells, astrocytes, and pericytes into a tissue system that can be sustained in vitro for several weeks. This tissue model helps recapitulate the complexity of the NVU and can be used to interrogate the mechanisms of disease and cell–cell interactions. The NVU tissue model displays elevated cell death and inflammatory responses following mechanical damage, to emulate traumatic brain injury (TBI) under controlled laboratory conditions, including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, elevated inflammatory markers TNF‐α and monocyte chemoattractant cytokines MCP‐2 and MCP‐3 and reduced expression of the tight junction marker ZO‐1. This 3D tissue model serves as a tool for deciphering mechanisms of TBIs and immune responses associated with the NVU.
CellSAM: Advancing Pathologic Image Cell Segmentation via Asymmetric Large‐Scale Vision Model Feature Distillation Aggregation Network
Authors: Ma Xiao , Huang Jin , Long Mengping , Li Xiaoxiao , Ye Zhaoyi , Hu Wanting , Yalikun Yaxiaer , Wang Du , Hu Taobo , Mei Liye , Lei Cheng
Published: October 2024

Segment anything model (SAM) has attracted extensive interest as a potent large‐scale image segmentation model, with prior efforts adapting it for use in medical imaging. However, the precise segmentation of cell nucleus instances remains a formidable challenge in computational pathology, given substantial morphological variations and the dense clustering of nuclei with unclear boundaries. This study presents an innovative cell segmentation algorithm named CellSAM. CellSAM has the potential to improve the effectiveness and precision of disease identification and therapy planning. As a variant of SAM, CellSAM integrates dual‐image encoders and employs techniques such as knowledge distillation and mask fusion. This innovative model exhibits promising capabilities in capturing intricate cell structures and ensuring adaptability in resource‐constrained scenarios. The experimental results indicate that this structure effectively enhances the quality and precision of cell segmentation. Remarkably, CellSAM demonstrates outstanding results even with minimal training data. In the evaluation of particular cell segmentation tasks, extensive comparative analyzes show that CellSAM outperforms both general fundamental models and state‐of‐the‐art (SOTA) task‐specific models. Comprehensive evaluation metrics yield scores of 0.884, 0.876, and 0.768 for mean accuracy, recall, and precision respectively. Extensive experiments show that CellSAM excels in capturing subtle details and complex structures and is capable of segmenting cells in images accurately. Additionally, CellSAM demonstrates excellent performance on clinical data, indicating its potential for robust applications in treatment planning and disease diagnosis, thereby further improving the efficiency of computer‐aided medicine.
The role of artificial intelligence in the management of liver diseases
Authors: Lu Ming‐Ying , Chuang Wan‐Long , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: October 2024

Universal neonatal hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination and the advent of direct‐acting antivirals (DAA) against hepatitis C virus (HCV) have reshaped the epidemiology of chronic liver diseases. However, some aspects of the management of chronic liver diseases remain unresolved. Nucleotide analogs can achieve sustained HBV DNA suppression but rarely lead to a functional cure. Despite the high efficacy of DAAs, successful antiviral therapy does not eliminate the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), highlighted the need for cost‐effective identification of high‐risk populations for HCC surveillance and tailored HCC treatment strategies for these populations. The accessibility of high‐throughput genomic data has accelerated the development of precision medicine, and the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to a new era of precision medicine. AI can learn from complex, non‐linear data and identify hidden patterns within real‐world datasets. The combination of AI and multi‐omics approaches can facilitate disease diagnosis, biomarker discovery, and the prediction of treatment efficacy and prognosis. AI algorithms have been implemented in various aspects, including non‐invasive tests, predictive models, image diagnosis, and the interpretation of histopathology findings. AI can support clinicians in decision‐making, alleviate clinical burdens, and curtail healthcare expenses. In this review, we introduce the fundamental concepts of machine learning and review the role of AI in the management of chronic liver diseases.
3D reconstruction of vocal fold dynamics with laser high‐speed videoendoscopy in children
Authors: Patel Rita R. , Döllinger Michael , Semmler Marion
Published: October 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate three‐dimensional vertical motion of the superior surface of the vocal folds in vivo in (a) typically developing children as a function of vocal frequency variations and (b) a child with vocal nodules.

Methods

A custom developed laser endoscope coupled with high‐speed videoendoscopy was used to obtain 3D parameters from 2 healthy children, one child with vocal nodules, and 23 vocally healthy adults (females = 11, males = 12). Parameters of amplitude (mm), maximum opening/closing velocity (mm/s), and mean opening/closing velocity (mm/s) were computed for the lateral and vertical vibratory motion along the anterior, middle, and posterior sections of the vocal folds were computed.

Results

We provide for the first time, absolute measurements of vertical amplitude and maximum/ mean velocity during the opening and closing phases, in vivo in children. Overall, the vertical motion was larger in vocally normal children compared with the lateral motion, especially along the visible posterior section of the vocal folds and during low pitch phonation. The opening phase dynamics were consistently large along the posterior section in the child with vocal nodules.

Conclusions

The study findings establish the feasibility of capturing 3D motion in a clinical setting and provide proof of concept for the application of the proposed 3D laser in the pediatric population. Future large sample size studies are needed to establish the diagnostic potential of examining the closing phase vertical motion to evaluate vibratory development in children with normal voice and investigating the opening phase vertical motion in children with nodules.

Level of Evidence

N/A.
The dysfunction of complement and coagulation in diseases: the implications for the therapeutic interventions
Authors: Jiang Honghong , Guo Yiming , Wang Qihang , Wang Yiran , Peng Dingchuan , Fang Yigong , Yan Lei , Ruan Zhuolin , Zhang Sheng , Zhao Yong , Zhang Wendan , Shang Wei , Feng Zhichun
Published: October 2024

The complement system, comprising over 30 proteins, is integral to the immune system, and the coagulation system is critical for vascular homeostasis. The activation of the complement and coagulation systems involves an organized proteolytic cascade, and the overactivation of these systems is a central pathogenic mechanism in several diseases. This review describes the role of complement and coagulation system activation in critical illness, particularly sepsis. The complexities of sepsis reveal significant knowledge gaps that can be compared to a profound abyss, highlighting the urgent need for further investigation and exploration. It is well recognized that the inflammatory network, coagulation, and complement systems are integral mechanisms through which multiple factors contribute to increased susceptibility to infection and may result in a disordered immune response during septic events in patients. Given the overlapping pathogenic mechanisms in sepsis, immunomodulatory therapies currently under development may be particularly beneficial for patients with sepsis who have concurrent infections. Herein, we present recent findings regarding the molecular relationships between the coagulation and complement pathways in the advancement of sepsis, and propose potential intervention targets related to the crosstalk between coagulation and complement, aiming to provide more valuable treatment of sepsis.
Fidelity of global tropical cyclone activity in a new reanalysis dataset (CRA40)
Authors: Li Jinxiao , Tian Qun , Shen Zili , Xu Yongfang , Yan Zixiang , Li Majun , Zhu Chuandong , Xue Jiaqing , Lin Zouxing , Yang Yaoxian , Zeng Lingjun
Published: October 2024

This study systematically evaluated global tropical cyclone (TC) activity in a new global atmospheric reanalysis dataset named the “40‐year Global Reanalysis” (CRA40) against the best track data. For comparison, four state‐of‐the‐art reanalyses—ERA5, JRA55, CFSR, and MERRA2—were also assessed. The results showed that there is a general underestimation of global TC genesis frequency and intensity in both CRA40 and other reanalyses. A detailed investigation of spatial distribution, seasonality, interannual variation, and long‐term trend for TC genesis frequency, as well as pressure–wind relationship for TC intensity, revealed similarities and differences among these reanalyses datasets. Overall, CRA40 does not exhibit clear advantages over other reanalyses in these aspects, but its biases are also not more pronounced. However, regarding TC translation speed, CRA40 outpeforms other reanalyses, evident by its high level of consistency with the observation in the zonal average pattern, meridional distribution at peak latitudes, and interannual variation, suggesting its reasonable capability in capturing large‐scale atmospheric characteristics. Our findings indicate that the use of CRA40 is appropriate for conducting TC‐related studies, within the scope of its limitations.
Micronutrients and Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wang Ruilong , Lin Jinran , Liu Qingmei , Wu Wenyu , Wu Jinfeng , Liu Xiao
Published: October 2024

Scope

Hair loss is a common problem that can negatively impact individuals' psychological well‐being. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is one of the most prevalent types of nonscarring hair loss. This review summarizes the existing evidence on the relationship between AGA and various micronutrients, including vitamin B, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, selenium, zinc, manganese, and copper.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to identify relevant articles published between 1993 and 2023. The search identified 49 relevant articles.

Results

The findings suggest that deficiencies or imbalances in these micronutrients may contribute to the pathogenesis of AGA and represent modifiable risk factors for hair loss prevention and treatment. Vitamin B, vitamin D, iron, and zinc appear to play critical roles in hair growth and maintenance. Deficiencies in these micronutrients have been associated with increased risk of AGA, while supplementation with these nutrients has shown potential benefits in improving hair growth and preventing hair loss. However, the current evidence is not entirely consistent, with some studies reporting no significant associations.

Conclusion

Deficiencies or imbalances in specific vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin B, vitamin D, Fe, Se, and Zn are involved in the pathogenesis of AGA and may represent modifiable risk factors for the treatment and prevention of this condition.
A Novel BiOBr/CAU‐17 Composite with Enhanced Photo‐Catalytic Performance for Dye Degradation and Removal of Tetracycline Antibiotic Under Visible Light
Authors: Akhtar Mansoor , Ullah Khan Shifa , Mustafa Ghulam , Ahmad Muhammad , Ahamad Tansir
Published: October 2024

In order to improve the low specific surface area and high recombinant light generation carriers of BiOBr, loading BiOBr onto suitable Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) is an effective strategy to unleash its efficient visible light response and intrinsic catalytic activity. In this study, using classic MOF CAU‐17 as a precursor, using a straightforward co‐precipitation technique, four BiOBr/CAU‐17 composites with distinct MOF contents values BCAU‐1, BCAU‐2, BC, AU‐3, and BCAU‐4 were created, and their photo‐catalytic characteristics were examined. The BCAU‐2 composite exhibited much higher photo‐catalytic degradation efficiency for Rhodamine B (RhB) and Tetracycline (TC) than the pristine materials, counter compositions, and early reported materials. XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, and EDX results revealed the strong synergistic photo‐catalytic effect of BiOBr and CAU‐17. The photocatalytic degradation of TC was significantly enhanced by the BiOBr bimetal modification, with the 2 wt.% BiOBr/CAU‐17 nanocomposite achieving an 87.2 % degradation of TC and 82 % Total Organic Carbon (TOC) removal within 60 min. The high photo‐degradation efficiency of BCAU‐2 composite should be attributed to the efficient transfer of photo‐generated carriers at interfaces and the synergistic effect between BiOBr/CAU‐17. Furthermore, the experiments on the capture of the active species proved that the main active free radicals involved in the degradation of RhB and TC are attributed to the photo‐induced holes h+ and ⋅ O2− under visible light. The catalyst's efficacy is corroborated by the outcomes of photoluminescence spectroscopy and photo current response. This study offers a new understanding for the design of green synthesis schemes for photo‐catalytic dye degradation and removal of certain antibiotics from the aquatic environment.
The Impact of COVID‐19 Lockdown and Post‐Lockdown Period on Acute Psychiatric Admissions for Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder
Authors: Kelbrick Marlene , da Silva Ksenija , Griffiths Chris , Ansari Saba , Mann Nick , Johnson Sara , Paduret Gabriela , Tanner James
Published: October 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic negatively impacted the mental health of people with emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD), with reports of maladaptive coping mechanisms, reduced mental health support and quality of life. In this study, the authors examine the impact of COVID‐19 lockdown and post‐lockdown period on acute psychiatric admission rates in an NHS Trust in people diagnosed with EUPD. In addition, the authors analyse whether patient profiles and the seasonal pattern of admission were impacted by COVID‐19 in this population. The study highlights the need for preventative clinical care pathways with increased access and service responsiveness, adjusted to fit local needs at times of confinement policies and additionally more research into seasonal patterns of admission in those with EUPD.
In Situ Fabrication of Al@C Nanocomposite Energetic Additives via Pulsed Discharge in Cyclohexane
Authors: Jia Rongzhao , Jia Shenli , Zhang Jiajian , Mo Yongpeng , Shi Zongqian
Published: October 2024

A method for in situ fabrication of Al@C nanocomposite energetic additives through pulsed discharge in liquid cyclohexane has been proposed. The obtained Al@C nanocomposites consist of large aluminum nanoparticles (over 100 nm) enveloped by fullerenes and a carbon matrix with smaller aluminum particles (under 100 nm) embedded within. DSC–TGA curves indicate that the heat release of Al@C is higher than that of micron‐sized and nano‐sized aluminum particles. Al@C nanocomposites effectively reduce the ignition delay for liquid fuels. The energy efficiency of this method is much higher than that of continuous arc ablation, with a yield of up to 2.5 mg/min. This method allows for the simple, convenient, and safe fabrication of energetic additives, presenting a promising prospect for large‐scale industrial production.
Transcriptome analyses reveal common immune system dysregulation in PAH patients and Kcnk3‐deficient rats
Authors: Ruffenach Grégoire , Le Ribeuz Hélène , Dutheil Mary , El Jekmek Kristell , Dumont Florent , Willer Anaïs Saint‐Martin , Humbert Marc , Capuano Véronique , Medzikovic Lejla , Eghbali Mansoureh , Montani David , Antigny Fabrice
Published: October 2024

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe disease caused by progressive distal pulmonary artery obstruction. One cause of PAH are loss‐of‐function mutations in the potassium channel subfamily K member 3 (KCNK3). KCNK3 encodes a two‐pore domain potassium channel, which is crucial for pulmonary circulation homeostasis. However, our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying KCNK3 dysfunction in PAH is still incomplete. Taking advantage of unique Kcnk3‐deficient rats, we analyzed the transcriptomic changes in the lungs from homozygous Kcnk3‐deficient rats and wild‐type (WT) littermates and compared them to PAH patient transcriptomic data. Transcriptome analysis of lung tissue obtained from WT and Kcnk3‐deficient rats identified 1915 down‐ or upregulated genes. In addition, despite limited similarities at the gene level, we found a strong common signature at the pathway level in PAH patients and Kcnk3‐deficient rat lungs, especially for immune response. Using the dysregulated genes involved in the immune response, we identified Spleen Associated Tyrosine Kinase (SYK), a significantly downregulated gene in human PAH patients and Kcnk3‐deficient rats, as a hub gene. Our data suggests that the altered immune system response observed in PAH patients may be partly explained by KCNK3 dysfunction through the alteration of SYK expression.
Synthesis of New Structural Thiosemicarbazones and Investigation of Their Antibacterial Activities Against E. Coli
Authors: Elmusa Safa , Elmusa Muna , Elmusa Fatima , Karaer Ozmen Fadime , Kasimogullari Rahmi
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of novel thiosemicarbazone derivatives with potential antibacterial activity. Through a systematic two‐step synthesis process, involving the preparation of substitute aldehydes (A1–A6) followed by the formation of thiosemicarbazone derivatives (S1–S6), novel compounds (S1, S2) were successfully obtained. The structures of the synthesized compounds were thoroughly characterized using FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, LC/MS, UV‐Vis, and SEM‐EDX. The results highlight the significance of sulfuric acid as a catalyst in the synthesis of pyrazole‐thiosemicarbazide derivatives (S1, S2), demonstrating its superior efficiency compared to acetic acid. The compounds exhibited varying degrees of antibacterial activity against E. coli, with compounds S3–S6 showing promising results with MIC values below 25 mg/mL. These findings indicate the potential of these compounds as antibacterial agents. Overall, the successful synthesis and characterization of these novel derivatives open avenues for further research into their potential pharmacological applications. The findings of this study lay the foundation for future studies aimed at optimizing these compounds for enhanced antimicrobial activity and exploring their therapeutic potential in treating bacterial infections.
Impact of Different Substituents on Thermal Curing and Flame‐Retardant Behaviors of 2,2′‐Methylenebis(4‐nitrophenol)‐Based (Poly)benzoxazines
Authors: Mathimani Janapriya , Ramachandran Sasikumar , Devaraj Poornesh , Govindaraj Latha , Muthukaruppan Alagar
Published: October 2024

Polymerization of benzoxazine at low temperatures is important because the high‐temperature polymerization restricts its utilization in a wide range of applications, though the polybenzoxazines possess excellent properties. The effect of nitro functionality and various substituents on the thermal curing of benzoxazine and the flame‐retardant behavior are mainly focused in this study. In the present work, 2,2′‐methylenebis(4‐nitrophenol) (NBP) was synthesized from 4‐nitrophenol and is used for the synthesis of benzoxazine derivatives with five structurally different aromatic amines. As the synthesized benzoxazine contains nitro‐groups in the phenolic part and various substituted functional groups in different positions of the amine part, the curing temperatures significantly varied among each other. The effect of different substituents on the thermal ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of benzoxazine was studied with exotherms of the DSC thermogram. The 4‐fluoroaniline and 2‐aminobenzotrifluoride‐based benzoxazines show the highest and lowest curing temperatures of 272 and 189 °C, respectively, which is based on their substituents and their position that can act as an internal catalyst. The resulting polybenzoxazines possess higher char yield (49% ≤ 63%) and higher values of LOI (37 ≤ 43) including excellent flame retardant (UL94‐V0) behaviors suggesting that the polybenzoxazine can be used as coatings for high‐performance industrial applications.
Boron Lewis Acids Mediated C(sp3)‐Sulfonylation of Isoindolinone Derivatives
Authors: Zheng Zhiyuan , Yu Zhichen , Jiang Xiaomeng , Ding Yuxin , Zhang Changjun , Xie Yuanyuan
Published: October 2024

An efficient boron Lewis acids mediated sulfonylation reaction has been successfully developed for the synthesis of C(sp3)‐sulfonylation isoindolinones, utilizing various γ‐hydroxy lactams and sulfonic nucleophile. The prominent features of the present strategy include wide substrate scope, excellent group tolerability, high atom economy, and moderate to good yields (up to 97 % yield).