bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secular trends in the anthropometric characteristics of children in a rural community in Yucatan, Mexico
Authors: Azcorra Hugo , Castillo‐Burguete María Teresa , Lara‐Riegos Julio , Salazar‐Rendón Juan Carlos , Mendez‐Dominguez Nina
Published: September 2023

Objective

To analyze changes in height, weight, and body mass index (BMI = kg/m2) from 1986 to 2022 in 3–11 year old children from Dzeal, a rural Maya community in Yucatan, Mexico.

Materials and Methods

From October‐2022 to February‐2023 (third‐wave survey), we obtained anthropometric measurements of children (n = 80) and family socioeconomic data and compared them with data obtained in 1986 (n = 38) and 2000 (n = 76). Comparisons of anthropometric parameters by sex between years of measurement were performed graphically and through one‐way ANOVA, splitting children into two age groups: 3–7 and 8–11. Bonferroni adjustments for multiple comparisons were used when ANOVAs were statistically significant (p < .05).

Results

In girls, significant increases in height and weight between surveys were found in 3–7 and 8–11 age groups; in boys, significant increases were only found in the 8–11 age group. Regarding BMI, there were increases in 2022 compared with 1986/2000 in both sexes from 8 years onwards. Differences indicate increases of 3.9 and 4.4 cm per decade in girls aged 3–7 and 8–11, respectively, and increases in weight of 1.1 and 3.3 kg per decade, respectively. Increases in boys 8–11 years were 2.3 cm and 2.4 kg per decade.

Conclusion

Significant increases in growth parameters were observed in specific‐age children in the community studied in the context of changes in livelihoods and improvements in household material conditions.
Sustainability of personal social networks of people with Down syndrome
Authors: Harisinghani Ayesha , Dhand Amar , Steffensen Ellen Hollands , Skotko Brian G.
Published: September 2023

Research continues to demonstrate that the characteristics of one's social network could have an impact on the development of Alzheimer's disease. Given the predisposition of people with Down syndrome to develop Alzheimer's disease, analysis of their social networks has become an emerging focus. Previous pilot research demonstrated that the personal networks of people with DS could be quantitatively analyzed, with no difference between self‐report and parent‐proxy report. This manuscript focuses on a 12‐month follow‐up period with the same original participants (24 adults with Down syndrome). Their social networks demonstrated sustainability, but not improvement, as reported by people with DS (mean network size: 8.88; mean density: 0.73; mean constraint: 0.44; mean effective size: 3.58; mean max degree: 6.04; mean degree: 4.78) and their proxies (mean network size: 7.90; mean density: 0.82; mean constraint: 53.13; mean effective size: 2.87; mean max degree: 5.19; mean degree: 4.30). Intentional and continued efforts are likely needed in order to improve the social network measures of people with Down syndrome.
When the cold gets under your skin: Evidence for brown adipose tissue activity in Samoan adults
Authors: Niclou Alexandra , Vesi Lupesina , Arorae Maria , Naseri New Caledonia , Faasalele Savusa Kima , Naseri Take , DeLany James P. , McGarvey Stephen T. , Rivara Anna C. , Ocobock Cara
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a heat‐producing organ aiding nonshivering thermogenesis (NST) during cold stress. Due to its potential cold‐adaptive role BAT has been predominantly studied in cold and temperate climate populations, but not among warm‐climate adults. This work explores if BAT activity can be inferred in Samoans.

Materials and Methods

We inferred BAT activity by comparing metabolic rate and surface heat dissipation using indirect calorimetry and thermal imaging between room temperature and cold exposure among Samoans (N = 61, females: n = 38) from ‘Upolu Island, Samoa. BAT activity was inferred using ANOVA linear regression models with the variables measured at cold exposure as outcomes. T‐tests were used to compare changes in surface temperature between room temperature and cold exposure.

Results

Metabolic rate significantly increased after cooling. In both the supraclavicular area, a known BAT location, and the sternum, a non‐BAT location, temperatures decreased significantly upon cold exposure. Differences in supraclavicular temperatures between room temperature and cold were significantly smaller than differences in sternum temperatures between exposures. These results suggest that BAT thermogenesis occurred in known BAT‐locations and thus contributed to NST during cooling.

Conclusions

This study adds to our understanding of BAT activity across different populations and climates. Further study may illuminate whether the cold‐adaptive properties of BAT may have played a role in the successful expansion of populations across the globe, including warm‐climate groups.
ATN cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in dementia with Lewy bodies: Initial results from the United States Dementia with Lewy Bodies Consortium
Authors: Jain Lavanya , Khrestian Maria , Formica Shane , Tuason Elizabeth D. , Pillai Jagan A. , Rao Stephen , Oguh Odinachi , Lippa Carol F. , Lopez Oscar L. , Berman Sarah B. , Tsuang Debby W. , Zabetian Cyrus P. , Irwin David J. , Galasko Douglas R. , Litvan Irene , Marder Karen S. , Honig Lawrence S. , Fleisher Jori E. , Galvin James E. , Bozoki Andrea C. , Taylor Angela S. , Sabbagh Marwan N. , Leverenz James B. , Bekris Lynn M.
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION

The National Institute on Aging – Alzheimer's Association (NIA‐AA) ATN research framework proposes to use biomarkers for amyloid (A), tau (T), and neurodegeneration (N) to stage individuals with AD pathological features and track changes longitudinally. The overall aim was to utilize this framework to characterize pre‐mortem ATN status longitudinally in a clinically diagnosed cohort of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and to correlate it with thepost mortemdiagnosis.

METHODS

The cohort was subtyped by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) ATN category. A subcohort had longitudinal data, and a subgroup was neuropathologically evaluated.

RESULTS

We observed a significant difference in Aβ42/40after 12 months in the A+T− group.Post mortemneuropathologic analyses indicated that most of the p‐Tau 181 positive (T+) cases also had a high Braak stage.

DISCUSSION

This suggests that DLB patients who are A+ but T− may need to be monitored to determine whether they remain A+ or ever progress to T positivity.

Highlights

Some A+T‐ DLB subjects transition from A+ to negative after 12‐months.

Clinically diagnosed DLB with LBP‐AD (A+T+) maintain their positivity.

Clinically diagnosed DLB with LBP‐AD (A+T+) maintain their positivity.

Monitoring of the A+T‐ sub‐type of DLB may be necessary.
Turkish anatomists' preferences to continue teaching after death and how it is impacted by their religious beliefs
Authors: Turhan Begumhan , Akcaalan Melike , Karahan Menekse
Published: September 2023

The attitudes of anatomists toward donating their own bodies are a question of matter in the literature of medicine. The aim of the study was to evaluate the attitudes of Turkish anatomists regarding the donation of their own bodies as teaching material after death. A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted among anatomists in Türkiye during the months of March and April 2023. An online survey was carried out by means of a questionnaire constructed using Google Forms©. The survey consisted of a demographic data part, Likert‐type multiple choice questions, open‐ended questions, and yes–no questions. The questionnaire was answered by 133 anatomists from the anatomy departments in Türkiye. The mean age was 38.9 ± 7.30 years. 48% of the anatomists who answered were male and 52% were female. Most of the participants have a religious belief (90%). All of the participants with religious beliefs were members of the Islamic religion. Approximately 5% of the participants stated that they donated their bodies as cadavers. Anatomists suggested increasing body donation by 76.7% as a solution to cadaveric insufficiency. Although most anatomists state that there is a need for body donation, the rate of donating their own bodies seems quite low. We think that anatomists accept the importance of body donation, but they do not think of themselves as donors. They only recommend body donation to other people. We think that programs and activities should be planned especially for those who are uncertain about body donation and those who only donate organs but do not donate bodies.
Germanium Analogue of the Parent Phosphine−Borane FLP Compound
Authors: Segizbayev Medet , Dmitrienko Anton , Simionescu Razvan , Pilkington Melanie , Nikonov Georgii I.
Published: September 2023

Diimino−carbene‐supported germylone dimNHCGe does not react with BPh3 and does not activate dihydrogen in the FLP mode in the combination with this borane. However, it reacts with B(C6F5)3 to give the zwitterionic borate dimNHCGe−(C6F4)BF(C6F5)2. This compound can be converted into the hydroborate dimNHCGe−(C6F4)BH(C6F5)2 (8) and further into [dimNHCGe−(C6F4)B(C6F5)2]+ (4). Compound 4 is a Ge/B analogue of Stephan's FLP parent P/B compound (C6H2Me3)2P−C6F4−B(C6F5)2 but unlike the latter cannot split dihydrogen. Moreover, attempts to prepare a Ge/B analogue of the zwitterion (C6H2Me3)2HP−C6F4−BH(C6F5)2 by protonation of borate 8 resulted in immediate elimination of H2.
Red/NIR emissive aggregation‐induced emission‐active photosensitizers with strong donor–acceptor strength for image‐guided photodynamic therapy of cancer
Authors: Ma Yucheng , Yin Weidong , Ji Shaomin , Wang Jin , Lam Jacky Wing Yip , Kwok Ryan Tsz Kin , Huo Yanping , Sun Jianwei , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: September 2023

Light‐mediated therapies such as photodynamic therapy (PDT) are considered emerging cancer treatment strategies. However, there are still lots of defect with common photosensitizers (PSs), such as short emission wavelength, weak photostability, poor cell permeability, and low PDT efficiency. Therefore, it is very important to develop high‐performance PSs. Recently, luminogens with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics and red/near‐infrared (NIR) emissive have been reported as promising PSs for image‐guided cancer therapy, due to them being able to prevent autofluorescence in physiological environments, their enhanced fluorescence in the aggregated state, and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Herein, we developed PSs named TBTCPM and MTBTCPM with donor–acceptor (D–A) structures, strong red/NIR, excellent targeting specificities to good cell permeability, and high photostability. Interestingly, both of them can efficiently generate ROS under white light irradiation and possess excellent killing effect on cancer cells. This study, thus, not only demonstrates applications in cell image‐guided PDT cancer therapy performances but also provides strategy for construction of AIEgens with long emission wavelengths.
Liamocin biosynthesis is induced by an autogenous host acid activation in Aureobasidium melanogenum
Authors: Zhang Mei , Wei Xin , Wang Peng , Chi Zhe , Liu Guang‐Lei , Chi Zhen‐Ming
Published: September 2023

It has been known that maximal liamocin production must be carried out at low environmental pH (around 3.0). In this study, it was found that the low pH was mainly caused by the secreted citric acid which is one precursor of acetyl‐CoA for liamocin biosynthesis. Determination of citric acid in the culture, deletion, complementation and overexpression of the CEXA gene encoding specific citrate exporter demonstrated that the low pH was indeed caused by the secreted citric acid. Deletion, complementation and overexpression of the ACL gene encoding ATP‐citric acid lyase and effects of different initial pHs and added citric acid showed that the low pH in the presence of citric acid was suitable for lysis of intracellular citric acid, liamocin production and expression of the PACC gene encoding the pH signaling transcription factor PacC. This meant that the PACC gene was an acid‐expression gene. Deletion, complementation and overexpression of the PACC gene indicated that expression of the key gene cluster GAL1‐EST1‐PKS1 for liamocin biosynthesis was driven by the pH signaling transcription factor PacC and there was weak nitrogen catabolite repression on liamocin biosynthesis at the low pH. That was why liamocin biosynthesis was induced at a low pH in the presence of citric acid. The mechanisms of the enhanced liamocin biosynthesis by the autogenous host acid activation, together with the pH signaling pathway, were proposed.
PEGylated therapeutics in the clinic
Authors: Gao Yongsheng , Joshi Maithili , Zhao Zongmin , Mitragotri Samir
Published: September 2023

The covalent attachment of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to therapeutic agents, termed PEGylation, is a well‐established and clinically proven drug delivery approach to improve the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs. Specifically, PEGylation can improve the parent drug's solubility, extend its circulation time, and reduce its immunogenicity, with minimal undesirable properties. PEGylation technology has been applied to various therapeutic modalities including small molecules, aptamers, peptides, and proteins, leading to over 30 PEGylated drugs currently used in the clinic and many investigational PEGylated agents under clinical trials. Here, we summarize the diverse types of PEGylation strategies, the key advantages of PEGylated therapeutics over their parent drugs, and the broad applications and impacts of PEGylation in clinical settings. A particular focus has been given to the size, topology, and functionalities of PEG molecules utilized in clinically used PEGylated drugs, as well as those under clinical trials. An additional section has been dedicated to analyzing some representative PEGylated drugs that were discontinued at different stages of clinical studies. Finally, we critically discuss the current challenges faced in the development and clinical translation of PEGylated agents.
Economic evaluation of prostate cancer risk assessment methods: A cost‐effectiveness analysis using population data
Authors: Mohammadi Tima , Guh Daphne P. , Tam Alexander C. T. , Pataky Reka E. , Black Peter C. , So Alan , Lynd Larry D. , Zhang Wei , Conklin Annalijn I.
Published: September 2023

Background

The current prostate cancer (PCa) screening standard of care (SOC) leads to unnecessary biopsies and overtreatment because decisions are guided by prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels, which have low specificity in the gray zone (3–10 ng/mL). New risk assessment tools (RATs) aim to improve biopsy decision‐making. We constructed a modeling framework to assess new RATs in men with gray zone PSA from the British Columbia healthcare system's perspective.

Methods

We evaluated the cost‐effectiveness of a new RAT used in biopsy‐naïve men aged 50+ with a PSA of 3–10 ng/mL using a time‐dependent state‐transition model. The model was informed by engaging patient partners and using linked administrative health data, supplemented with published literature. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio and the probability of the RAT being cost‐effective were calculated. Probabilistic analysis was used to assess parameter uncertainty.

Results

In the base case, a RAT based on an existing biomarker's characteristics was a dominant strategy associated with a cost savings of $44 and a quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) gain of 0.00253 over 18 years of follow‐up. At a cost‐effectiveness threshold of $50,000/QALY, the probability that using a RAT is cost‐effective relative to the SOC was 73%. Outcomes were sensitive to RAT costs and accuracy, especially the detection rate of high‐grade PCa. Results were also impacted by PCa prevalence and assumptions about undetected PCa survival.

Conclusions

Our findings showed that a more accurate RAT to guide biopsy can be cost‐effective. Our proposed general model can be used to analyze the cost‐effectiveness of any novel RAT.
Surgical management of a type A aortic dissection in a pregnant patient
Authors: Gordon Julian A. , Larkins Michael C. , Pasli Melisa , Cai Sunny R. , Celio Adam C. , Bates Michael J.
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Despite emphasis for emergent surgical treatment of Stanford type A aortic dissections, pregnant patients that are clinically stable may safely receive a staged approach instead, with delivery followed by delayed dissection repair.
Pulmonary pseudoaneurysm in the setting of concurrent COVID‐19 and pulmonary mucormycosis: A rare case report
Authors: Hamdar Hussein , Nahle Ali Alakbar , Jaber Rida , Salame Hadi , Sikaria Amjad , Souleiman Younes
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

This case illustrates the possible danger of PAP emergence in individuals with a confluence of conditions capable of inducing vascular impairment, like COVID‐19, pulmonary mucormycosis (PM), and diabetes.

Pulmonary mucormycosis (PM) is a highly lethal invasive infection. It is a rare complication of COVID‐19 and is associated with a high mortality rate. Pulmonary pseudoaneurysm (PAP) is a severe manifestation of this condition, often resulting in death. Management involves endovascular therapy followed by surgery and appropriate antifungal treatment.
Pounding score of intracranial lipomas
Authors: Aikawa Yudai , Sato Takanobu , Ichibayashi Ryo
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Most intracranial lipomas are asymptomatic, but headache is the most common symptom. The pounding score is sometimes high. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor imaging findings in parallel with the treatment of migraine.
X‐linked lymphoproliferative syndrome associated with Epstein–Barr virus encephalitis and lymphoproliferative disorder
Authors: Mukai Takeo , Waki Kenji
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

When treating patients with EBV encephalitis, the possibility of XLP should be considered. Once the diagnosis of XLP is made, aggressive treatment such as rituximab, and other immunosuppressive agents are desired for rapid transition to HSCT.
ECG left ventricular hypertrophy in aortic stenosis: Relationship with cardiac structure, invasive hemodynamics, and long‐term mortality
Authors: Sager Patrizia , Rusch Andreas , Weber Lukas , Breuss Alexander , Appert Sharon , Brenner Roman , Buser Marc , Ammann Peter , Rickli Hans , Maeder Micha T.
Published: September 2023

Background

In aortic stenosis (AS), left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is the response to pressure overload and represents the substrate for a maladaptive cascade, the so‐called AS‐related cardiac damage. We hypothesized that in AS patients electrocardiogram (ECG) LVH not only predicts echocardiography LVH but also other noninvasive and invasive markers of cardiac damage and prognosis after aortic valve replacement (AVR).

Methods

In 279 patients with severe AS undergoing ECG, echocardiography, and cardiac catheterization before AVR, the Sokolow‐Lyon index, the Cornell product, the Romhilt‐Estes score, and the Peguero‐Lo Presti score were assessed.

Results

The mean left ventricular mass index was 109 ± 34 g/m2, and 131 (47%) patients had echocardiography LVH. The areas under the receiver operator characteristics curve (AUC) for the Sokolow‐Lyon index, the Cornell product, the Romhilt‐Estes score, and the Peguero‐Lo Presti score for the prediction of echocardiography LVH were 0.59, 0.70, 0.63, and 0.65. The Peguero‐Lo Presti score had the numerically greatest AUC for the prediction of left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure >15 mmHg, mean pulmonary artery wedge pressure >15 mmHg, pulmonary vascular resistance >3 Wood units, mean right atrial pressure >14 mmHg, and stroke volume index <31 mL/m2. After a median follow‐up of 1365 (interquartile range: 931–1851) days after AVR only the Peguero‐Lo Presti score was significantly associated with all‐cause mortality [hazard ratio: 1.24 (95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.54); per 1 mV increase; p = .045].

Conclusions

Among severe AS patients, the Peguero‐Lo Presti score is associated with abnormalities in cardiac structure including LVH, invasive measures of cardiac damage, and long‐term mortality after AVR.
A novel finite spectral entropy: Gated term memory unit recursive network integrated with Ladybug Beetle Optimization algorithm for epileptic seizure detection
Authors: Golla Sandhya Kumari , Maloji Suman
Published: September 2023

Professional medical experts use a visual electroencephalography (EEG) signal for epileptic seizure detection, although this method is time‐consuming and highly subject to bias. The majority of previous epileptic detection techniques have poor efficiency, detection performance and also which are unsuited to handle large datasets. In order to solve the aforementioned issues and to assist medical professionals with an advanced technology, a computerized epileptic seizure detection system is essential. Therefore, the proposed work intends to design an automated detection tool for predicting an epileptic seizure from EEG signals. For this purpose, a novel non‐linear feature analysis and deep learning algorithms are deployed in this work. Initially, the signal decomposition, filtering and artifacts removal operations are carried out with the use of finite Haar wavelet transformation technique. After that, the finite spectral entropy (FSE) based feature extraction model has been used to extract the time, frequency, and time‐frequency features from the normalized signal. Consequently, the novel gated term memory unit recursive network (GTRN) model is employed to predict the given EEG signal as whether healthy or seizure affected including the class with high accuracy. During this process, the recently developed Ladybug Beetle Optimization (LBO) algorithm is used to compute the logistic sigmoid function based on the solution. The purpose of using this algorithm is to simplify the process of classification with increased seizure prediction accuracy and performance. Moreover, the standard and popular benchmark EEG datasets are used to validate and test the results of the proposed FSE‐GTRN‐LBO mechanism. By leveraging the finite Haar wavelet transformation and FSE‐based feature extraction, we can efficiently process EEG signals. The utilization of the GTRN model enables accurate classification of healthy and seizure‐affected EEG data. To optimize the classification process further, we integrate the LBO algorithm, streamlining the computation of the logistic sigmoid function. Through comprehensive validation on standard EEG datasets, our proposed FSE‐GTRN‐LBO mechanism achieves outstanding seizure prediction accuracy and performance, surpassing existing state‐of‐the‐art techniques.
Interpretable and accurate curve‐fitting method for arterial pulse wave modeling and decomposition
Authors: Chen Zhendong , Peng Bo , Zhou Yuqi , Hao Yinan , Xie Xiaohua
Published: September 2023

Arterial pulse waveforms contain a wealth of information about the cardiovascular system. There is a lack of physical meaning in the mathematical model of arterial pulse waves, while the physical model fails to offer individuality as too many assumptions are involved. In this article, we focus on promoting the interpretability of the arterial pulse mathematical model. The proposed method is based on newly developed 3‐term fitting functions individualized by the physiological parameter assignment, which are the peak times of the reflected and dicrotic waves in a pulse. In this manner, the model allows decomposition of the pulse into sub‐signals with clear physiological significance. With nearly 10,000 pulse fitting experiments, it is demonstrated that the proposed method outperforms the standard methods in fitting accuracy while providing parameters linked to hemodynamic characteristics and common clinical indices such as the peripheral augmentation index (pAI). The proposed method innovatively maintains the individuality and accuracy of mathematical models while improving the interpretability of their parameters. The applications of this newly developed method, which explicitly incorporates hemodynamic characteristics, are expected to be particularly valuable in future pulse wave decomposition studies.
Bioequivalence of Blonanserin Tablets Under Fasting and Fed Conditions in Healthy Chinese Subjects
Authors: Lei Yuyan , Yan Yu , Lu Junli , Li Chao , Wang Jie , Li Canxia , Huang Lifeng , Wang Caihong , Liu Wanying , Li Xiaohui , Chen Weiming , Xia Man , Chen Lulu
Published: September 2023

Blonanserin is a novel oral antischizophrenic drug. Under fasting (n = 50) and fed (n = 60) conditions, this study compared the bioequivalence of the generic blonanserin tablet with the reference blonanserin tablet. In this single‐center, randomized, open‐label, 2‐period, 2‐sequence, crossover study, 110 patients were randomly given a 4‐mg dose of either the test or reference blonanserin tablet with a 14‐day washout period. Blood samples were taken before performing and up to 72 hours following. A validated high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry technique was used to measure the levels of blonanserin in plasma. Safety was evaluated throughout the study. The study found no significant differences in the maximum observed drug concentration in the plasma (Cmax), the area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from time 0 to the last sampling time (AUC0‐t), and the area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC0‐∞) between the 2 blonanserin formulations. The 90% confidence intervals of the geometric mean ratio of the test/reference formulations for Cmax, AUC0‐t, and AUC0‐∞ were within the 80%‐125% limit. Food dramatically raised blonanserin exposure, and also significantly prolonged the lag time of absorption. No serious adverse events occurred. These results indicate that the 2 blonanserin formulations were bioequivalent and well tolerated in healthy Chinese subjects. In clinical treatment, it is necessary to consider the food effect of blonanserin.
Circular RNA circARPC1B functions as a stabilisation enhancer of Vimentin to prevent high cholesterol‐induced articular cartilage degeneration
Authors: Li Jiarui , Li Xiang , Zhou Shengji , Wang Yuxin , Ying Tiantian , Wang Quan , Wu Yizheng , Zhao Fengchao
Published: September 2023

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and debilitating condition, that is, directly associated with cholesterol metabolism. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms of OA remain largely unknown, and the role of cholesterol in this process has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to investigate the role of a novel circular RNA, circARPC1B in the relationship between cholesterol and OA progression.

Methods

We measured total cholesterol (TC) levels in the synovial fluid of patients with or without OA to determine the diagnostic role of cholesterol in OA. The effects of cholesterol were explored in human and mouse chondrocytes in vitro. An in vivo OA model was also established in mice fed a high‐cholesterol diet (HCD) to explore the role of cholesterol in OA. RNAseq analysis was used to study the influence of cholesterol on circRNAs in chondrocytes. The role of circARPC1B in the OA development was verified through circARPC1B overexpression and knockdown. Additionally, RNA pulldown assays and RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation were used to determine the interaction between circARPC1B and Vimentin. CircARPC1B adeno‐associated virus (AAV) was used to determine the role of circARPC1B in cholesterol‐induced OA.

Results

TC levels in synovial fluid of OA patients were found to be elevated and exhibited high sensitivity and specificity as predictors of OA diagnosis. Moreover, elevated cholesterol accelerated OA progression. CircARPC1B was downregulated in chondrocytes treated with cholesterol and played a crucial role in preserving the extracellular matrix (ECM). Mechanistically, circARPC1B is competitively bound to the E3 ligase synoviolin 1 (SYVN1) binding site on Vimentin, inhibiting the proteasomal degradation of Vimentin. Furthermore, circARPC1B AAV infection alleviates Vimentin degradation and OA progression caused by high cholesterol.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that the cholesterol‐circARPC1B‐Vimentin axis plays a crucial role in OA progression, and circARPC1B gene therapy has the opportunity to provide a potential therapeutic approach for OA.
Correlation of immediate prevalence of cervical squamous cell precancers and cancers with HPV genotype and age in women with LSIL cytology: A retrospective analysis of 1617 cases
Authors: Chen Liqing , Zhu Kaibo , Chen Hao , Liu Qin , Zhang Xiaofei , Zhou Xin , Zhang Jun , Niu Shuang , Zhou Feng
Published: September 2023

Aims

To evaluate the immediate risk of cervical squamous cell precancers and cancers in women with low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) cytology according to different high‐risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) results and age stratification.

Methods

The study included 1617 women with LSIL cytology and underwent simultaneous Aptima HPV genotyping (E6/E7 mRNA test) followed by cervical biopsy.

Results

Among 1317 hrHPV positive cases, other 11 types of hrHPV were the most frequent (68.8%), followed by HPV16 (11.1%), HPV18/45 (4.1%), and HPV16/HPV18/45 (0.5%). Compared to other groups, HPV18/45 positive group and other 11 types of hrHPV group showed significantly higher prevalence of intraepithelial neoplasia grade (CIN)1 (p < .0001), while HPV16 positive and HPV16/HPV18/45 dual positive groups showed significantly higher prevalence of CIN2/3 (p < .0001). In addition, hrHPV positive, 25–39 years‐old age group showed a significantly higher prevalence of CIN1 (p = .032) than the other age groups. Furthermore, CIN1 prevalence was significantly higher in patients under 40 or 50 years of age than in those over 40 or 50 years of age (p = .005 and p = .011, respectively). However, there was no significant difference among the different age groups in CIN2/3 prevalence in women with LSIL cytology.

Conclusion

In southern Chinese women population, LSIL cytology carries very low immediate risk of high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) (CIN2/3) in general. However, HPV16 positive and HPV16/HPV18/45 dual positive indicated a higher immediate risk of high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) (CIN2/3). Age is not an immediate risk factor in this patient population for high‐grade squamous lesions or SCC. These results are similar to data from cytology laboratories in the United States and other international settings, therefore strongly support the usage of ASCCP guidelines in this patient population.
MAIT cells in immune‐mediated tissue injury and repair
Authors: Waterhölter Alex , Wunderlich Malte , Turner Jan‐Eric
Published: September 2023

Mucosal‐associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are T cells that express a semi‐invariant αβ T‐cell receptor (TCR), recognizing non‐peptide antigens, such as microbial‐derived vitamin B2 metabolites, presented by the nonpolymorphic MHC class I related‐1 molecule. Like NKT cells and γδT cells, MAIT cells belong to the group of innate‐like T cells that combine properties of the innate and adaptive immune systems. They account for up to 10% of the blood T‐cell population in humans and are particularly abundant at mucosal sites. Beyond the emerging role of MAIT cells in antibacterial and antiviral defenses, increasing evidence suggests additional functions in noninfectious settings, including immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases and tissue repair. Here, we discuss recent advances in the understanding of MAIT cell functions in sterile tissue inflammation, with a particular focus on autoimmunity, chronic inflammatory diseases, and tissue repair.
Sensitive and selective determination of the neonicotinoid nitenpyram utilizing capillary electrophoresis hyphenated to amperometric detection/mass spectrometry
Authors: Koall. M. , Böhm D. , Herl T. , Matysik F.‐M.
Published: September 2023

In this work, we present the sensitive and selective determination of the widely used insecticide nitenpyram (NIT), utilizing a newly developed dual detection concept (DDC) for capillary electrophoresis (CE). This DDC was realized by combining two complementary detection principles, namely amperometric detection (AD) and mass spectrometry (MS), using a commercially available flow splitter (CE‐AD/MS). The novel DDC was implemented utilizing a newly developed, modular, and user‐friendly CE system with a unique capillary positioning mechanism to improve the workflow. A detailed description of the CE device can be found in the Supporting Information.

We investigated the analytical performance of the novel DDC (CE‐AD/MS) in the context of NIT determination.

The NIT LOD, obtained by AD, was up to a factor of 14 lower than in case of MS in the context of CE‐AD/MS. The qualitative and quantitative determination of NIT in pharmaceutical samples is presented as a possible application for the novel DDC. Additionally, the oxidation process during AD was examined by hyphenation of electrochemistry to CE‐MS.
Venetoclax in biomarker‐selected multiple myeloma patients: Impact of exposure on clinical efficacy and safety
Authors: Badawi Mohamed , Coppola Sheryl , Eckert Doerthe , Gopalakrishnan Sathej , Engelhardt Benjamin , Doelger Eva , Huang Weize , Dobkowska Edyta , Kumar Shaji , Menon Rajeev M. , Salem Ahmed Hamed
Published: September 2023

Venetoclax, a potent BCL‐2 inhibitor, is currently under development for treatment of t(11;14) Multiple myeloma (MM). The objective of this research was to investigate the exposure–response relationships of venetoclax for a phase 1/2 study evaluating venetoclax monotherapy or in combination with dexamethasone in relapsed or refractory MM. A total of 117 patients receiving venetoclax at 300, 600, 800, 900, or 1200 mg were included in the analysis. The impact of venetoclax exposures on efficacy (objective response rate [ORR], progression‐free survival [PFS] and overall survival [OS]) as well as safety (treatment‐emergent adverse effects (grade ≥3) of neutropenia, infection, and any grade of serious treatment‐emergent adverse effects) was evaluated. In the t(11;14)‐positive subpopulation, venetoclax exposure relationships to PFS and OS indicated a trend of longer PFS and OS with higher exposures. Moreover, logistic regression analyses for clinical response (ORR and ≥VGPR rate) demonstrated a statistically significant (p < 0.05) relationship with exposure. Evaluation of the exposure‐safety relationships demonstrated a lack of a relationship between venetoclax exposures (AUCavg) and grade ≥3 infections, grade ≥3 neutropenia, grade ≥3 treatment‐emergent adverse events or any grade serious treatment‐emergent adverse events. These findings support further study of venetoclax at 800 mg QD dose in combination with dexamethasone in the t(11;14)‐positive patient population where increased efficacy was observed without an increase in safety events.Clinical Trial: NCT01794520 registered 20 February 2013.
Exploring the nexus between Islamic financial institutions Shariah compliance disclosure and corporate governance: New insights from a cross‐country analysis
Authors: Abdulrahman Zunaiba , Ebrahimi Tahera , Al‐Najjar Basil
Published: September 2023

We address the scarcity of empirical research on Shariah Compliance Disclosure (hereafter referred to as SCD) by presenting new evidence on the levels and range of SCD, of 807 bank‐year observation of Islamic Financial Institutions (hereafter referred to as IFIs) in 19 countries for the period from 2010 to 2020 and its determinants. Using an unweighted disclosure index measured by manual content analysis categorized into Shariah Supervisory Board (hereafter referred to as SSB) information, audit process, Shariah compliance review and Zakat, several outcomes are documented. In general, the SCD level is above average (57.38%) and hence evidence an overall growth during the sample period. Further, the study examines the relationship between corporate governance (CG) and SCD and the results indicate that foreign investors, institutional investors, board size, board independence, SSB reputation and SSB size are vital and influence the extent of SCD level. The study also conducted several tests to examine the main findings' robustness. The findings deliver valuable in‐depth empirical insights to regulatory bodies on the current SCD practises of IFIs to assist policymakers in modifying reporting frameworks or guidelines accordingly. In addition, this research can support academics, policymakers or standard setters and managers interested in seeking information about SCD and CG.
Transplacental passage of nirmatrelvir in pregnant women with COVID‐19
Authors: Chuang Ming‐Ta , Su Mei‐Tsz , Chou Chen‐Hsi , Liang Yu‐Ling , Tsai Hsing‐Fen , Yu Pei‐Hsiu , Wu Meng‐Hsing , Ko Wen‐Chien , Tsai Pei‐Yin
Published: September 2023

Synopsis

The transplacental passage of nirmatrelvir in pregnant women with COVID‐19 is limited and reinforces the safety of using Paxlovid in pregnancy.
Evaluation of Lead‐In Direct Oral Anticoagulant Prescribing Practices in Newly Diagnosed Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Cho Sarah S. , Yin Ellen , Dalton Kelci
Published: September 2023

Various lead‐in dosing strategies have been used in clinical practice for venous thromboembolism (VTE), and guidelines do not currently address if the full lead‐in dosing duration is necessary after receiving parenteral anticoagulation. This study aims to identify whether full lead‐in dosing duration surrounding parenteral anticoagulation affects thrombotic and bleeding outcomes. A single‐center, retrospective cohort study was conducted of hospitalized patients diagnosed with VTE and treated with apixaban or rivaroxaban. Patients were grouped depending on duration of lead‐in dosing, with the full lead‐in dosing group considered as the appropriate duration of the direct oral anticoagulant. The primary outcome was the recurrence of VTE within the index admission to 6 months. Secondary outcomes included major bleeding, clinically relevant minor bleeding, and mortality. Ninety‐three patients were prescribed full lead‐in dosing, while 99 patients received reduced lead‐in dosing. The primary outcome of recurrent VTE was similar between the reduced lead‐in group compared to the full lead‐in group (3% vs 2%; P = 1.0). Major bleeding within the index admission was significantly higher in the reduced lead‐in group: 11 versus 2 (P = .02). There were no significant differences in other secondary outcomes. Full lead‐in dosing compared to reduced lead‐in dosing duration for VTE had similar rates of thrombotic and mortality events. The higher rate of major bleeding in the reduced lead‐in dosing group likely reflects the prescribing practices in less stable patients. This study provides evidence to support reduced lead‐in dosing duration in high‐risk patients without compromising efficacy outcomes.
The GC Immersive: Patching the pipeline with genetic counseling experiences for all
Authors: McGruder Carla , Erwin Deanna J. , Glanton Emily , Johnson Shontiara , Whynot Sydney
Published: September 2023

Genetic counseling graduate programs largely recommend that prospective applicants shadow or gain exposure to genetic counselors (GC) as a means of developing insight into the profession. However, prospective students have cited this need to shadow genetic counselors as harder to access in comparison to other prerequisites. The GC Immersive (GCI) at Color was created as a no‐cost, remote, self‐paced professional exploration program designed to provide resources and live interaction with a team of genetic counselors to increase accessibility to GC exposure and enhance the competitiveness of underrepresented GC candidates. The program design and curriculum were developed by a team of certified genetic counselors and a GC student in 2021 and is marketed to those who have one or more identities underrepresented in the GC field. In total, 287 individuals enrolled in the program in the first and second cycles, with 115 providing demographic information. The majority of enrollees identified as an underrepresented minority in GC in one or more identities, with individuals who are ethnic and/or racial minority (70%), first‐generation college student (44%), lesbian, gay, transgender, queer, intersex, and/or asexual (LGBTQIA+) (27%), and disabled community (16%) reported as the most common identities. Most participants had never shadowed a GC (55%) prior to this course. Twenty‐two percent of enrollees resided outside of the United States, representing 15 different countries. Of the 287 enrolled participants, 21 (7%) have completed the program, with the remaining participants having between 5 and 11 months to complete. All individuals who completed the program reported they felt better prepared to apply for a GC program. The general structure of this program can be replicated by any institution, as the program consists primarily of recorded content. Ongoing effort by genetic counselors is minimal and has the ability to provide GC experience to prospective applicants at great scale.
Genetic counseling graduate program faculty perspectives on sharing education materials among programs
Authors: Murphy E. Emma , Ordal Leslie , Niendorf Kristin , Ketelsen Kirk , Eichmeyer Jennifer N. , Mills Rachel
Published: September 2023

Rapid advancements in genetics care requires responsive genetic counseling (GC) training capable of integrating new discoveries and practice into their curricula. The utilization of shared or standardized educational resources may address this need. Recognizing the potential of shared resources, the Pharmacogenetics (PGx) Working Group of the NSGC Precision Medicine Special Interest Group (SIG) launched a standardized education module using a flipped‐classroom format to provide all GC programs equal access to PGx expertise and alleviate the burden of curriculum development. Following the initial success of the program, we aimed to explore the utilization of shared and standardized education resources more broadly, and better understand the perspectives of GC program faculty regarding their use. Twenty‐nine program faculty representing at least 14 programs responded to an online survey. The majority (n = 21) reported sharing educational materials with another GC program, and 90% of those reported the shared materials to be beneficial as they promote collaboration, efficiency, address a gap in content, and provide access to experts. Similar benefits were described when using a standardized curriculum, which was defined as standardized lectures and activities created about a particular topic and made available to all genetic counseling programs; 16 participants indicated they would be very likely or likely to use a standardized curriculum. A secondary aim of the survey was to assess the existing PGx module that utilizes a flipped‐classroom format. Overall, the PGx module was well received, indicating that a standardized shared module is well‐suited for instruction on emerging and specialty topics. All participants believed the flipped‐classroom format to be very or somewhat beneficial. In summary, results indicate that shared educational materials, including standardized education modules, are a potential solution to challenges related to efficiency and access to content experts in GC education, and program leadership is receptive to using them.
Effect of processing (cutter versus continuous emulsifier) and sodium reduction on the physicochemical properties of bologna sausages
Authors: do Nacimento Renata , Vidal Vitor Andre Silva , de Souza Paglarini Camila , Munekata Paulo E.S. , Lorenzo José M. , Barros Julliane Carvalho , Cristianini Marcelo , Pollonio Marise Aparecida Rodrigues
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Overcoming the impact of sodium reduction in the properties of emulsified sausages is a current challenge in the production of healthier meat products. Because the emulsifying process play a key role in the stability of sausages, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of two mechanical emulsifying systems (cutter versus continuous emulsifier) and two levels of sodium chloride (2.50 and 1.25%) on the physicochemical characteristics of bologna sausages.

RESULTS

A reduction of sodium increased the L* value and reduced the a* value, and also decreased the protein extraction yield in sausages produced in the cutter system. Moreover, the emulsion stability of reduced sodium batter was increased by cutter emulsification (F50C). On the other hand, the continuous emulsifier process did not decrease the extraction of myofibrillar proteins in F50E (sodium reduced treatment), resulting in minimal impact on emulsion stability and an increase in hardness in reduced‐sodium sausages.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, to produce low‐sodium sausages, the continuous emulsifier was more effective producing batters with increased extracted myofibrillar proteins, improving the structure and functionality of myofibrillar proteins compared to the cutter process. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Otolaryngologic Patients Using Caprini Assessment
Authors: Edwards Michael A. , Brennan Emily , Rutt Amy L. , Muraleedharan Divya , Casler John D. , Spaulding Aaron , Colibaseanu Dorin
Published: September 2023

Objective

The aim was to determine the utilization of Caprini guideline‐indicated venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis and impact on VTE and bleeding outcomes in otolaryngology (ORL) surgery patients.

Methods

Elective ORL surgeries performed between 2016 and 2021 were retrospectively identified. Logistic regression models were used to examine the association between patient characteristics and receiving appropriate prophylaxis, inpatient, 30‐ and 90‐day VTE and bleeding events.

Results

A total of 4955 elective ORL surgeries were analyzed. Thirty percent of the inpatient cohort and 2% of the discharged cohort received appropriate risk‐stratified VTE prophylaxis. In those who did not receive appropriate prophylaxis, overall inpatient VTE was 3.5‐fold higher (0.73% vs. 0.20%, p = 0.015), and all PE occurred in this cohort (0.47% vs. 0.00%, p = 0.005). All 30‐ and 90‐day discharged VTE events occurred in those not receiving appropriate prophylaxis. Inpatient, 30‐ and 90‐day discharged bleeding rates were 2.10%, 0.13%, and 0.33%, respectively. Although inpatient bleeding was significantly higher in those receiving appropriate prophylaxis, all 30‐ and 90‐day post‐discharge bleeding events occurred in patients not receiving appropriate prophylaxis. On regression analysis, Caprini score was significantly positively associated with likelihood of receiving appropriate inpatient prophylaxis (odds ratio [OR] 1.05, confidence interval [CI] 1.03–1.07) but was negatively associated in the discharge cohort (OR 0.43, CI 0.36–0.51). Receipt of appropriate prophylaxis was associated with reduced odds of inpatient VTE (OR 0.24, CI 0.06–0.69), but not with risk of bleeding.

Conclusion

Although Caprini VTE risk‐stratified prophylaxis has a positive impact in reducing inpatient and post‐discharge VTE, it must be balanced against the risk of inpatient postoperative bleeding.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:1169–1182, 2024
Effects of Surface‐Immobilization on Photobleaching of Xanthene Dye Photocatalysts
Authors: Freeburne Sarah , Sacco Jessica L. , Gomez Esther W. , Pester Christian W.
Published: September 2023

While organic photocatalysts provide increasingly versatile chemical pathways under mild conditions, their long‐term stability remains understudied. Here, the photobleaching behavior of xanthene dye photocatalysts is investigated. Rose Bengal, Eosin Y, and fluorescein are studied when in solution, when grafted to glass beads, and when incorporated into polymer brushes that are tethered to glass beads. This provides a comparison between xanthene's stability as a homogeneous and as a heterogeneous photocatalyst. Photobleaching is investigated using UV–vis, diffuse reflectance UV–vis (DR UV–vis), and fluorescence microscopy. Xanthene dyes as homogeneous photocatalysts exhibit the highest photostability, while the grafted systems appeared to fade more rapidly. Notably, heterogenization appears to have different effects based on the photocatalyst system, and further altering the photocatalyst environment with reagents may improve stability.