bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomarker role of maternal soluble human leukocyte antigen G in pre‐eclampsia: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Bhattarai Abhinav , Shah Sangam , Dahal Krishna , Neupane Raksha , Thapa Sangharsha , Neupane Niraj , Barboza Joshuan J. , Shrestha Anisha , Sah Ranjit , Apostolopoulos Vasso
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Human leukocyte antigen‐G (HLA‐G) is a non‐classical class I HLA molecule shown to regulate the immunomodulation of maternal immune cells to prevent fetal tissue destruction. Low levels of freely circulating maternal soluble HLA‐G (sHLA‐G) have been observed in pre‐eclampsia, however, no pooled evidence exists. This meta‐analysis aimed to generate pooled findings on the association of sHLA‐G levels with pre‐eclampsia and is the first study to perform a trimester‐wise comparison of the levels of sHLA‐G in preeclamptic cases and normal pregnant controls.

Methods

The databases PubMed, Emba, Web of Science, and Google Scholar through May 31, 2023. Preeclamptic women were defined as cases and normal pregnancies as controls. Data on the level of sHLA‐G in cases and controls was extracted and subjected to a meta‐analysis using a random‐effects model. The pooled effect was expressed in terms of standardized mean difference (SMD). Sensitivity analysis was performed to investigate the effect of the exclusion of each study on the pooled results. Publication bias was assessed statistically.

Results

Nine studies with altogether 567 PE cases and 1132 normal pregnancy controls were included in the meta‐analysis. The first and third trimester levels of sHLA‐G in PE cases were significantly lower than that of normal pregnant controls: (SMD: −0.84 [−1.29; −0.38]; p = .003; I2 = 54%) and (SMD: −0.39 [−0.71; −0.06]; p = .02; I2 = 79%) respectively. Sensitivity analysis revealed significant fluctuations in the pooled findings when few studies were excluded, raising questions on the consistency of results among studies.

Conclusion

Although we found that first and third‐trimester sHLA‐G levels in pre‐eclampsia are significantly lower, taking into consideration the inconsistent results from the sensitivity analysis, our findings advocate the demand for more studies with larger sample sizes to generate solid ground pooled evidence on the predictive role of sHLA‐G in pre‐eclampsia.
Grey matter alterations in generalized anxiety disorder: A voxel‐wise meta‐analysis of voxel‐based morphometry studies
Authors: Ou Chang‐Hsien , Cheng Chiu‐Shih , Lin Pei‐Ling , Lee Cheng‐Lung
Published: April 2024

Objective

Grey matter, a crucial component of the brain, has been found altered in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) of several voxel‐based morphometry studies. The conclusive and consistent grey matter alterations in GAD have not been confirmed.

Method

Eleven voxel‐based morphometry studies of GAD patients were included in the current systematic review and meta‐analysis. The linear model of anxiety severity scores was applied to explore the relationship of grey matter alterations and anxiety severity. The subgroup analysis of adult GAD and adolescent GAD was also performed.

Results

Significantly modest grey matter alterations in the left superior temporal gyrus of patients with GAD were found. The anxiety severity score was significantly correlated with grey matter alterations in the right insula, lenticular nucleus, putamen and striatum. The subgroup analysis of adult GAD and adolescent GAD all failed to show significant grey matter alterations. However, in the adult GAD subgroup, anxiety severity score was significantly correlated with grey matter alterations in the right insula.

Conclusion

GAD might have the modest grey matter alterations in the left superior temporal gyrus. Anxiety severity might be related to the grey matter alterations in the limbic regions, such as the right insula, lenticular nucleus, putamen and striatum. This kind of correlation might be related to the effects of adult GAD. Future studies with adequate sample sizes and sophisticated GAD categories will be needed.
Prolonged use of a soft diet during early growth and development alters feeding behavior and chewing kinematics in a young animal model
Authors: Montuelle Stéphane J. , Williams Susan H.
Published: April 2024

In infants and children with feeding and swallowing issues, modifying solid foods to form a liquid or puree is used to ensure adequate growth and nutrition. However, the behavioral and neurophysiological effects of prolonged use of this intervention during critical periods of postnatal oral skill development have not been systematically examined, although substantial anecdotal evidence suggests that it negatively impacts downstream feeding motor and coordination skills, possibly due to immature sensorimotor development. Using an established animal model for infant and juvenile feeding physiology, we leverage X‐ray reconstruction of moving morphology to compare feeding behavior and kinematics between 12‐week‐old pigs reared on solid chow (control) and an age‐ and sex‐matched cohort raised on the same chow softened to a liquid. When feeding on two novel foods, almond and apple, maintenance on a soft diet decreases gape cycle duration, resulting in a higher chewing frequency. When feeding on almonds, pigs in this group spent less time ingesting foods compared to controls, and chewing cycles were characterized by less jaw rotation about a dorsoventral axis (yaw) necessary for food reduction. There was also a reduced tendency to alternate chewing side with every chew during almond chewing, a behavioral pattern typical of pigs. These more pronounced impacts on behavior and kinematics during feeding on almonds, a tougher and stiffer food than apples, suggest that food properties mediate the behavioral and physiological impacts of early texture modification and that the ability to adapt to different food properties may be underdeveloped. In contrast, the limited effects of food texture modification on apple chewing indicate that such intervention/treatment does not alter feeding behavior of less challenging foods. Observed differences cannot be attributed to morphology because texture modification over the treatment period had limited impact on craniodental growth. Short‐term impacts of soft‐texture modification during postweaning development on feeding dynamics should be considered as potential negative outcomes of this treatment strategy.
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD in eating disorder treatment‐seekers: Prevalence and associations with symptom severity
Authors: Day Sinead , Hay Phillipa , Basten Christopher , Byrne Susan , Dearden Amanda , Goldstein Mandy , Hannigan Amy , Heruc Gabriella , Houlihan Catherine , Roberts Marion , Tannous W. Kathy , Thornton Chris , Valentine Natalie , Mitchison Deborah
Published: April 2024

Although childhood trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been well‐researched in eating disorder epidemiology, prevalence rates are unavailable for complex PTSD (CPTSD). Under recently introduced ICD‐11 criteria, individuals with CPTSD have both PTSD symptoms and additional disturbances in self‐organization (DSO). Using ICD‐11 criteria, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of PTSD and DSO symptoms, diagnostic rates of PTSD and CPTSD, and childhood trauma exposure in eating disorder treatment‐seekers. Participants (N = 217) were individuals attending residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient services who completed measures of eating disorder– and trauma‐related symptoms and childhood adverse experiences. One third of participants reported PTSD symptoms, and over half reported DSO symptoms, with probable ICD‐11 diagnostic rates of 3.8% for PTSD and 28.4% for CPTSD. CPTSD was significantly more prevalent than PTSD and more common in higher levels of care. Both PTSD and DSO symptom severity were positively correlated with eating disorder symptoms and impairment, rs = .285–.642. DSO symptom severity was a significant and unique explanatory factor of eating disorder severity and impairment. The findings highlight the prevalence of CPTSD in eating disorder populations and the association between DSO symptoms and eating psychopathology independent of PTSD symptoms. Implications are discussed for adjunct treatment approaches for individuals with comorbid eating disorders and PTSD or CPTSD.
Barrier Properties of Biodegradable Aliphatic–Aromatic Copolyesters (PBXT Series)
Authors: Wang Lizheng , Tu Zhu , Liang Jiaming , Wei Zhiyong
Published: April 2024

In this study, a series of biodegradable poly(butylene alkylene carboxylate‐co‐terephthalate) copolymers with varying methylene numbers in the alkylene units (0, 2, 4, and 8) are synthesized. These copolymers, namely, poly(butylene oxalate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBOT), poly(butylene succinate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBST), poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT), and poly(butylene sebacate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBSeT), are prepared with nearly identical structural and molar compositions. The objective of this study is to comprehensively examine the impact of alkylene unit length on the barrier properties of the materials, delving into aspects such as crystallinity, free volume, molecular chain mobility, as well as adsorption and diffusion of gases within the materials. The findings indicate a decrease in crystallinity from 17.2% for PBOT to 10.2% for PBSeT as the alkylene chain length increases, while maintaining the same chemical composition. Concurrently, the fractional free volume increases from 0.9% to 2.6%, and the melt flow activation energy decreases from 106.6 to 52.1 kJ mol−1. Importantly, theoretical calculations are performed, demonstrating that the predominant site for gas adsorption and diffusion is within the material's free volume. These combined observations indicate a gradual decrease in barrier properties as the number of methylene groups increases.
Mycelium Agrowaste‐Bound Biocomposites as Thermal and Acoustic Insulation Materials in Building Construction
Authors: Bonga Kumba Bintunia , Bertolacci Laura , Contardi Marco , Paul Uttam Chandra , Zafar Muhammad Shajih , Mancini Giorgio , Marini Lara , Ceseracciu Luca , Fragouli Despina , Athanassiou Athanassia
Published: April 2024

The predominant use of synthetic materials, such as fiberglass and polymeric foams, for thermal and acoustic insulation in the construction sector contributes to the recalcitrant waste accumulation in the environment and is not economically sustainable in the long term. This is because they are developed with linear economy standards, they are neither reusable nor recyclable, and, at their end of lifecycle, they are not compostable, with a great amount of them finishing in landfills. This work is focused on the development of natural, self‐growing mycelium‐biocomposites as sustainable alternatives to these conventional synthetic materials. Specifically, fungal mycelium derived from the nonpathogenic fungal strain Pleurotus ostreatus is fed by coffee silverskin flakes, a lignocellulosic agrowaste from roasted coffee seeds, forming 3D biocomposites. The physicochemical properties of the obtained composite are thoroughly investigated, with a final focus on their thermal and acoustic insulation properties. As proved, the natural agrowaste‐mycelium composites possess high porosity and thus low density, good thermal properties, and satisfactory sound absorption capability. Such properties combined with the minimal energetic requirements for their growth and their fully compostable end‐of‐life nature make them valuable alternatives for thermal and acoustic insulation in building construction, among other applications, promoting environmental and economic sustainability.
Leveraging supplier orientation for innovation: Exploring the impact of supply management innovativeness and innovation partnership
Authors: Liu Xinmeng , Li Suicheng , Wang Xiang , Zhang Cailin
Published: April 2024

Industry 4.0 has created new opportunities for enterprise innovation by leveraging emerging technologies. External innovation represents a valuable source of ideas and knowledge for internal innovation, and enterprises are increasingly leveraging their supplier relationships to gain a competitive advantage. Some researchers suggest that suppliers enhance the effectiveness and outcomes of lean innovation. To deepen our understanding of the relationship between supplier orientation and innovation outcomes, this study explores the mechanisms through which supplier orientation contributes to enhancing innovation performance, with a specific focus on the role of supplier orientation in improving supply management innovativeness and innovation partnerships. Survey data from 209 Chinese firms engaged in innovation practices was analyzed using a hierarchical regression based on resource dependency theory. Results reveal that supplier orientation positively influences supply management innovativeness and innovation partnerships. Supply management innovativeness and buyer–supplier innovation partnerships both contribute to improved innovation performance. Our findings suggest that the buyer–supplier innovation partnership plays a moderating role in the relationship between supply management innovativeness and innovation performance. These insights provide a valuable basis for developing innovative strategies and managing inter‐firm relationships, emphasizing the importance of supplier relationship management practices in enhancing firms' competitiveness and performance by leveraging external resources and knowledge.
Well‐posedness of diffusion–aggregation equations with bounded kernels and their mean‐field approximations
Authors: Chen Li , Nikolaev Paul , Prömel David J.
Published: April 2024

The well‐posedness and regularity properties of diffusion–aggregation equations, emerging from interacting particle systems, are established on the whole space for bounded interaction force kernels by utilizing a compactness convergence argument to treat the nonlinearity as well as a Moser iteration. Moreover, we prove a quantitative estimate in probability with arbitrary algebraic rate between the approximative interacting particle systems and the approximative McKean–Vlasov SDEs, which implies propagation of chaos for the interacting particle systems.
Developing a continuous SIR epidemic model and its discrete version using Euler method: Analyzing dynamics with analytical and numerical methods
Authors: Sahaminejad Fatemeh , Nyamoradi Nemat , Eskandari Zohreh
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we develop a continuous SIR epidemic model and its discrete version using the Euler method. The continuous SIR epidemic model is a widely used mathematical tool for understanding the dynamics of infectious diseases. We derive the system of differential equations that describe the rates of change in the number of individuals in each compartment and discuss the key parameters that influence the dynamics of the model. Next, we use the Euler method to discretize the continuous SIR epidemic model and obtain a discrete‐time version. We analyze the dynamics of the discrete SIR epidemic model using both analytical and numerical methods. We derive the positively invariant set of the model and discuss the initial conditions of the model and how they relate to the total population. We compare the behavior of the continuous and discrete SIR epidemic models and show that the discretized model captures the essential features of the continuous model. We also investigate the impact of key parameters such as the transmission rate, recovery rate, and death rate on the dynamics of the model. Our findings suggest that the discrete SIR epidemic model is a powerful mathematical tool for understanding the dynamics of infectious diseases and developing effective strategies for their control. By studying the behavior of the model under different scenarios, researchers can gain insights into the transmission and prevalence of infectious diseases and develop interventions that reduce their impact on public health.
Distributed optimization for discrete time‐varying linear multi‐agent systems with event‐triggered communication
Authors: Gu Mingxia , Yu Zhiyong , Jiang Haijun
Published: April 2024

This paper studies the distributed optimization problem (DOP) of discrete time‐varying linear multi‐agent systems (MASs), in which the global objective function is formed by a sum of local convex objective functions. Firstly, a DOP with discrete time‐varying MASs is considered, in which the time‐varying linear matrix satisfies a certain equality constraint. To solve this problem, a novel discrete‐time distributed optimization algorithm (DOA) with event‐triggered communication mechanism (ETCM) is proposed. Secondly, by constructing the error dynamical system and using a series of inequality techniques, some sufficient conditions for achieving consensus and obtaining the optimal solution are established. It is found that the considered MAS has generality and the proposed DOA has the advantage of reducing communication burden. Finally, a numerical simulation is presented to verify the validity of theoretical results.
Oncological Outcomes of Transoral Laser Microsurgery for Early Stage Glottic Cancer with Involvement of the Anterior Commissure
Authors: Wang Di , Liu Yan , Wen Lianji , Li Shuang , Zhu Shuna , Wang Tuanjie , Yu Dan
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To assess the value of carbon dioxide transoral laser microsurgery (CO2 TOLMS) for early‐stage glottic cancer with special regard to involvement of the anterior commissure (AC).

Study Design

Single‐center retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Grade‐A tertiary hospital.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients with early‐stage (Tis‐T2) glottic cancer who underwent CO2 TOLMS. All patients had at least 2 years of follow‐up. The univariate and multivariate survival analyses were used to identify the risk factors for recurrence and the Kaplan‐Meier method was used to analyze OS and DSS rates.

Results

A total of 102 patients were included in the study. Eleven patients (10.78%) had recurrence. The univariate analysis showed that the recurrence was associated with the AC classification, T staging, tumor size, and tobacco use (P < .05). However, on multivariate analysis, the AC classification was the only independent risk factor for recurrence (P < .001, HR = 3.179). AC classification were distributed as follows: 59 (57.84%) AC0, 29 (28.43%) AC1, 8 (7.84%) AC2, and 6 (5.88%) AC3, 2‐year/5‐year OS and DSS rates were progressively reduced in the AC0, AC1, AC2, and AC3 groups (P < .001). At the same T staging, the OS rates incrementally decreased as the level of involvement of the AC became higher (P = .004).

Conclusion

CO2 TOLMS is an effective treatment for early‐stage glottic cancer. AC involvement is an independent risk factors for recurrence and poor prognosis. The AC classification system may be better at grading the prognosis of patients with early‐stage glottic cancer and has prognostic value independent of T staging.
Activation of Janus kinase 2 contributes to the autoimmune pathology in the salivary glands of patients with Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Aota Keiko , Kani Koichi , Ono Shinji , Naniwa Kohei , Momota Yukihiro , Fukui Makoto , Ishimaru Naozumi , Azuma Masayuki
Published: April 2024

Aim

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects exocrine glands. CXCL10 production from salivary gland ductal cells via the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway has been suggested to be involved in glandular inflammation in pSS. We aimed to investigate JAK1, JAK2, phosphorylated JAK1, and phosphorylated JAK2 expression in labial salivary gland (LSG) tissues from patients with pSS to evaluate the potential of JAK inhibitors as therapeutic agents for pSS.

Methods

Immunohistochemical analysis was performed using LSG tissues of patients with pSS (n = 10), non‐SS patients (n = 5), and healthy controls (n = 5). The LSG sections were scored to determine the expression levels of JAK1, JAK2, phosphorylated JAK1, and phosphorylated JAK2 in the ductal and acinar epithelium.

Results

In acinar epithelial cells of LSG tissues, JAK1, JAK2, and phosphorylated JAK1 expression was significantly lower in patients with pSS than in the controls. Significantly high expression of phosphorylated JAK1 and phosphorylated JAK2 was observed in the ductal epithelial cells of patients with pSS. However, there was no significant association between phosphorylated JAK1 or JAK2 expression levels and inflammation degree. Furthermore, immunofluorescence analysis revealed JAK2 phosphorylation in many CD3+ T cells infiltrating the LSG tissues.

Conclusions

The results suggest JAK2 activation in both ductal epithelial cells and infiltrating CD3+ T cells in LSG tissues of patients with pSS. JAK inhibitors may be effective therapeutic agents for pSS by regulating both chemokine production from salivary gland cells and effector T cell activation.
Referral practices and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in pregnancies with obesity
Authors: Warhurst Samantha , Georgousopoulou Ekavi , Sethna Farah , Huang Hsin‐Chia
Published: April 2024

Objective

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects maternal and neonatal health during pregnancy. This study aimed to identify characteristics and comorbidities associated with sleep clinic referral in high‐risk pregnancies with Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m2.

Method

Retrospective cohort study for individuals in a high‐risk pregnancy clinic at a tertiary Australian hospital from 1 January to 31 December 2020 with BMI≥35 kg/m2. The primary outcome measure was sleep clinic referral. Exposure data included multiple comorbidities and formal tools (Epworth Sleepiness Scale and STOP‐BANG). Multivariable analysis was used to identify factors associated with referral. Descriptive data on barriers to diagnosis and treatment were collected.

Results

Of 161 pregnant individuals, 38.5% were screened using formal tools and 13.7% were referred to sleep clinic. Having STOP‐BANG performed was associated with sleep clinic referral (Odds Ratio: 18.04, 95% Confidence Interval:4.5–71.7, p < 0.001). No clinical characteristics were associated with the likelihood of performing STOP‐BANG. The COVID‐19 pandemic was a treatment barrier for three individuals.

Conclusions

Current screening practices identify pregnant individuals with the highest pre‐test probability of having OSA. Future research should evaluate real‐world strategies to improve identification and management in this high‐risk population.
IKZF1PLUS alterations contribute to outcome disparities in Hispanic/Latino children with B‐lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Kovach Alexandra E. , Wengyn Maximilian , Vu My H. , Doan Andrew , Raca Gordana , Bhojwani Deepa
Published: April 2024

Background

Compared to other ethnicities, Hispanics/Latinos (H/L) have a high incidence of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), enrichment of unfavorable ALL genetic subtypes, and worse outcomes, even after correcting for socioeconomic factors. We previously demonstrated increased incidence of the high‐risk genetic drivers IKZF1 deletion and IGH::CRLF2 rearrangement in H/L compared to non‐H/L children with B‐ALL. Here in an expanded pediatric cohort, we sought to identify novel genetic drivers and secondary genetic alterations in B‐ALL associated with H/L ethnicity.

Procedure

Comprehensive clinicopathologic data from patients with B‐ALL treated from 2016 to 2020 were analyzed. Subtype was determined from karyotype, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), chromosome microarray (CMA), and our next‐generation sequencing (NGS) panel (OncoKids). Non‐driver genetic variants were also examined. p‐Values less than .05 (Fisher's exact test) were considered significant.

Results

Among patients with B‐ALL at diagnosis (n = 273), H/L patients (189, 69.2%) were older (p = .018), more likely to present with CNS2 or CNS3 disease (p = .004), and NCI high‐risk ALL (p = .014) compared to non‐H/L patients. Higher incidence of IGH::CRLF2 rearrangement (B‐ALL, BCR::ABL1‐like, unfavorable; p = .016) and lower incidence of ETV6::RUNX1 rearrangement (favorable, p = .02) were also associated with H/L ethnicity. Among secondary (non‐subtype‐defining) genetic variants, B‐ALL in H/L was associated with IKFZ1 deletion alone (p = .001) or with IGH::CRLF2 rearrangement (p = .003). The IKZF1PLUS profile (IKZF1 deletion plus CDKN2A/2Bdel, PAX5del, or P2RY8::CRLF2 rearrangement without DUX4 rearrangement) was identified as a novel high‐risk feature enriched in H/L patients (p = .001).

Conclusions

Our study shows enrichment of high‐risk genetic variants in H/L B‐ALL and raises consideration for novel therapeutic targets.
The effects of a course‐based mindfulness intervention on college student perfectionism, stress, anxiety, self‐compassion, and social connectedness
Authors: Bearden Anomi G. , Turnbull Blaire , Wallace Carmella , Prosser Steven , Vincent Akeem
Published: April 2024

Rising perfectionism levels within post‐secondary students could be one reason for students' challenges with adaptation to post‐secondary. Recent research has suggested mindfulness‐based interventions may be a promising avenue for mitigating high perfectionism, in addition to improving emotional and social well‐being. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of 8 weeks of a mindfulness course on post‐secondary students (compared to a non‐meditating control group). Variables of interest were mindfulness, multidimensional perfectionism (self‐oriented, other‐oriented, and socially prescribed types), stress, anxiety, self‐compassion, and social connectedness. Students self‐enrolled into a mindfulness class offered at a college in Alberta, Canada (n = 15). The experimental sample, aged 18−54 (M = 25.27, SD = 11.47), were 96.7% female. A control group was recruited from first‐ and second‐year psychology classes (n = 30), with ages ranging from 17 to 38 (M = 21.70, SD = 5.36) and 70% identifying as female. Students completed in‐person surveys near the beginning of the term and again after 8 weeks. ANOVAs and linear regression analyses were conducted. In line with previous studies, results indicated that college students practicing mindfulness evidenced lower perfectionism (self‐oriented and other‐oriented types), stress, and anxiety, along with higher mindfulness and self‐compassion. Additionally, interpersonal benefits were revealed as the mindfulness group increased in social connectedness. Perplexing results suggest two routes to social connection, as the control group also showed an increase in social connection, potentially motivated by higher stress and self‐criticism. Findings from the current study are impressive (given the small sample size and the high‐stress time of the term during which post‐test measures were taken) and suggest that integrating mindfulness practices into the curriculum can enhance emotional and social well‐being for postsecondary students.
Teachers' occupational health: A structural model of work‐related stress, depressed mood at work, and organizational commitment
Authors: Ozyildirim Gulnar
Published: April 2024

Organizations, employees, and individuals suffer from adverse outcomes due to a lack of occupational health, impacting everything from organizational performance to psychological and physical health, and they are a prevalent phenomenon for various jobs, including teaching. The aims of the current study are two‐fold: to determine the state of occupational health (i) and its structure among 470 Turkish teachers at all school levels, including 338 female teachers (71.9%) and 132 male teachers (28.1%), specifically in terms of stress, the depressed mood at work, and organizational commitment variables (ii). A structural model for occupational health is developed and examined through the AMOS 22 program. The findings of this study indicate that stress predicts a negative impact on organizational commitment (−0.42), whereas it has a positive effect on depressed mood at work (0.74). Additionally, organizational commitment is shown to have a negative impact on depressed mood at work (−0.15). Overall, policymakers, school administrators, and leaders should prioritize strategies to reduce stress, create a healthier work environment, and address the need for proactive efforts to promote a positive emotional climate that improves teacher occupational health. Additionally, further research should explore the other factors that enable to prevent and reduce depression mood at work.
Potential functionality of Cutibacterium acnes extracellular vesicles in atopic dermatitis and acne vulgaris: A comparative proteomic analysis
Authors: Yu Tianze , Chen Jin , Wu Shi , Jiang Min , Han Ling , Ma Ying
Published: April 2024

Background

Cutibacterium acnes is a commensal bacterium residing in healthy skin and plays a critical role in maintaining skin homeostasis. C. acnes has been considered closely related to acne vulgaris, while recent studies suggest that C. acnes and its metabolites may have a protective role in atopic dermatitis (AD) by modulating the immune system and maintaining skin homeostasis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membranous vesicles secreted by bacteria that participate in bacteria‐host interactions.

Methods

This study first compared C. acnes EVs from AD lesions (AD‐EVs), acne lesions (Acne‐EVs), and healthy skin (NC‐EVs), using Label‐free quantitative LC‐MS/MS and validated differently expressed proteins by parallel reaction monitoring (PRM). Then Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (NHEK) and human primary keratinocytes (KC) were treated with C. acnes EVs isolated from different groups, and the expressions of inflammatory factors were measured by quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blotting.

Results

Compared with the acne group, the AD group showed greater downregulation of proteins related to energy metabolism and carbon source utilization pathway. Differences in protein profile in AD and acne lesion‐separated C. acnes EVs correspond to the abnormal sebum secretion pattern in both diseases. C. acnes EVs from different groups affected different expressions of Th1 and Th2 inflammatory factors and epidermal barrier markers in NHEK and KC, indicating different immunomodulatory potentials.

Conclusions

This study observed distinct proteomic differences between AD‐EVs and Acne‐EVs, and provided insights into the functional differences of C. acnes EVs in AD and acne.
Bouncing Cosmology in f(R,G)$f(R,\mathcal {G})$ Gravity with Thermodynamic Analysis
Authors: Shaily  , Singh Jainendra Kumar , Singh Akanksha
Published: April 2024

The evolution of the universe in a modified gravity theory that includes the terms Ricci scalar () and the Gauss‐Bonnet invariant () is studied. The function is obtained using the e‐folding number and reconstruction technique by assuming an appropriate parameterization of the scale factor . In this model, the various cosmological parameters are analyzed to explicate the bouncing scenario of the universe with the help of the contraction and expansion phases of the universe before and after the bouncing point of the model, respectively. A violation of the null energy condition is found. Additionally, the ghost condensate nature of the model in the neighborhood of the bouncing point () is seen. Furthermore, the deceleration parameter is not defined at the bouncing point, i.e., at and approaches a finite value in later times (). Finally, the evolution of the Hawking temperature and the validity of the second law of thermodynamics in the bouncing scenario of our model are discussed.
Emergence of Ferroelectricity in p‐Type 2D In1.75Sb0.25Se3
Authors: Li Shasha , Guo Tao , Yan Yong , Wu Yimin A
Published: April 2024

p‐type 2D ferroelectric semiconductors (2D FeSs) play an increasingly essential role in the advanced nonvolatile and morphotropic beyond‐Moore electronic devices with high performance and low power consumption. But reliable p‐type 2D FeS with holes as majority carriers are still scarce. Herein, the first experimental realization of room‐temperature ferroelectricity in van der Waals layered β‐In1.75Sb0.25Se3 down to few layer is reported. The origin of ferroelectricity in β‐In1.75Sb0.25Se3 comes from aliovalent elemental substitution, antimony substituting to the indium sites (SbIn), changing the local environment of the central‐layer Se atoms. Thanks to the intrinsic ferroelectric and semiconducting natures, FeS field‐effect transistor (FeSFET) devices based on β‐In1.75Sb0.25Se3 exhibit reconfigurable, multilevel nonvolatile memory (NVM) states, which can be successively modulated by gate voltage stimuli. Furthermore, the inherent operation mechanism, due to the switchable polarization, indicates that a neuromorphic memory is also possible with 2D FeSFETs. These presented results facilitate the technological implementation of versatile 2D FeS devices for next‐generation logic‐in‐memory approach for Internet‐of‐Things entities.
NT‐pro‐BNP is predictive of morbidity and mortality after pulmonary thromboendarterectomy and is independent of preoperative hemodynamics
Authors: Keiler Emanuel A. , Kerr Kim M. , Poch David S. , Yang Jenny Z. , Papamatheakis Demosthenes G. , Alotaibi Mona , Bautista Angela , Pretorius Victor G. , Madani Michael M. , Kim Nick H. , Fernandes Timothy M.
Published: April 2024

Current predictors of clinical outcomes after pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) are largely limited to preoperative clinical characteristics. N‐terminal‐pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐pro‐BNP), a biomarker of right ventricular dysfunction, has not yet been well described as one such predictor. From 2017 to 2021, 816 patients with CTEPH referred to the University of California, San Diego for PTE were reviewed for differences in NT‐pro‐BNP to predict preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes up to 30 days post‐PTE. For analysis, NT‐pro‐BNP was dichotomized to less than/equal to or greater than 1000 pg/mL based on the mean of the study population. Mean NT‐pro‐BNP was 1095.9 ±1783.4 pg/mL and median was 402.5 pg/mL (interquartile range: 119.5–1410.8). Of the 816 patients included, 250 had NT‐pro‐BNP > 1000 pg/mL. Those with NT‐pro‐BNP > 1000 pg/mL were significantly more likely to have worse preoperative functional class (III–IV) and worse preoperative hemodynamics. Patients with NT‐pro‐BNP > 1000 pg/mL also tended to have more postoperative complications including reperfusion pulmonary edema (22% vs. 5.1%, p < 0.001), airway hemorrhage (8.4% vs. 4.9%, p = 0.075), residual pulmonary hypertension (11.9% vs. 3.1%, p < 0.001), and 30‐day mortality (4.8% vs. 1.1%, p = 0.001). Even after adjusting for confounders, patients with NT‐pro‐BNP > 1000 pg/mL had a 2.48 times higher odds (95% confidence interval: 1.45–4.00) of reaching a combined endpoint that included the above complications. Preoperative NT‐pro‐BNP > 1000 pg/mL is a strong predictor of more severe preoperative hemodynamics and identifies patients at higher risk for postoperative complications.
Predictors of early mortality after lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Girgis Reda E. , Manandhar‐Shrestha Nabin K. , Krishnan Sheila , Murphy Edward T. , Loyaga‐Rendon Renzo
Published: April 2024

Lung transplantation remains an important therapeutic option for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH), yet short‐term survival is the poorest among the major diagnostic categories. We sought to develop a prediction model for 90‐day mortality using the United Network for Organ Sharing database for adults with IPAH transplanted between 2005 and 2021. Variables with a p value ≤ 0.1 on univariate testing were included in multivariable analysis to derive the best subset model. The cohort comprised 693 subjects, of whom 71 died (10.2%) within 90 days of transplant. Significant independent predictors of early mortality were: extracorporeal circulatory support and/or mechanical ventilation at transplant (OR: 3; CI: 1.4–5), pulmonary artery diastolic pressure (OR: 1.3 per 10 mmHg; CI: 1.07–1.56), forced expiratory volume in the first second percent predicted (OR: 0.8 per 10%; CI: 0.7–0.94), recipient total bilirubin >2 mg/dL (OR: 3; CI: 1.4–7.2) and ischemic time >6 h (OR: 1.7, CI: 1.01–2.86). The predictive model was able to distinguish 25% of the cohort with a mortality of ≥20% from 49% with a mortality of ≤5%. We conclude that recipient variables associated with increasing severity of pulmonary vascular disease, including pretransplant advanced life support, and prolonged ischemic time are important risk factors for 90‐day mortality after lung transplant for IPAH.
Hybrid Quantum Systems with Artificial Atoms in Solid State
Authors: Chia Cleaven , Huang Ding , Leong Victor , Kong Jian Feng , Goh Kuan Eng Johnson
Published: April 2024

The development of single‐platform qubits, predominant for most of the last few decades, has driven the progress of quantum information technologies but also highlighted the limitations of various platforms. Some inherent issues, such as charge/spin noise in materials hinder certain platforms, while increased decoherence upon attempts to scale up severely impacts qubit quality and coupling on others. In addition, a universal solution for coherent information transfer between quantum systems remains lacking. By combining one or more qubit platforms, one could potentially create new hybrid platforms that might alleviate significant issues that current single‐platform qubits suffer from, and in some cases, even facilitate the conversion of static to flying qubits on the same hybrid platform. While nascent, this is an area of rising importance that could shed new light on robust and scalable qubit development and provide new impetus for research directions. Here, the requirements for hybrid systems are defined with artificial atoms in the solid state, exemplified with systems that are proposed or attempted, and conclude with the outlook for such hybrid quantum systems.
Nanostructures Originated from Grafting Amino Group Containing Biomolecules on Graphene Oxide
Authors: Ghorbani Mojtaba , Tarlani Aliakbar , Taghvaei‐Ganjali Saeed , Malekzade Mercede
Published: April 2024

With the aim of obtaining new composites from graphene oxide for a new biological application, it urged us to select some amine containing molecules namely purpald, mafenide acetate and fluvoxamine for grafting that was resulted to the formation of purpald‐grafted graphene oxide, mafenide‐grafted graphene oxide and fluvoxamine‐grafted graphene oxide, respectively. These novel nanocomposites were evaluated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscopy,Dynamic light scattering, Zeta potential, X‐ray diffraction, Thermogravimetric analysis, Raman, and Fourier‐transform infrared. The findings demonstrated that the grafting was done satisfactorily. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed that the peaks seen at 286.07, 285.79, and 285.49 eV corresponded to the formation of carbon‐nitrogen bonds between the amine groups of purpald, mafenide acetate, and fluvoxamine, respectively, and the functionalized oxygen groups present on the surface of graphene oxide. In this study, three nanocomposites were subjected to practical testing in close proximity to human breast cancer cells. After a period of 24 hours, it was shown that purpald‐grafted graphene oxide demonstrated more cellular toxicity compared to the other nanocomposites.
One‐Pot Triple and Mixed Double Michael Addition of Activated Alkenes to 2‐Oxindole and 7‐Aza‐2‐Oxindole: Synthesis of C‐3/N‐Functionalized Carbon Rich 2‐Oxindole and 7‐Aza‐2‐Oxindole Derivatives
Authors: Kavitha Preethi Raman , Kannadasan Sathananthan , Shanmugam Ponnusamy
Published: April 2024

A simple, efficient, and atom‐economical, one‐pot triple Michael Addition of activated alkenes to 2‐oxindole, 7‐aza‐2‐ indolone, and N‐methyl‐5‐bromo‐7‐aza‐2‐indolone has been developed. Significantly, multifunctionalities have also been achieved via one‐pot mixed Michael addition using the equimolar amount of two different activated alkenes. The reaction provided C‐3 and N‐functionalized carbon‐rich 7‐aza‐2‐oxindole derivatives. The scope of the reaction using diverse activated alkenes has been tested to provide the title compounds. The structure of the representative compounds has been established by the XRD method. Synthetic transformation of representative compounds is demonstrated to provide the respective 3‐spirooctane‐2‐oxindole derivatives in excellent yield. A plausible mechanism for cyclization is provided.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Functionalized Carbazoles and β‐Carbolines via Diethyl Azodicarboxylate Mediated Dehydrogenative Aromatization in Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Shirisha Thangellapally , Majhi Subir , Kashinath Dhurke
Published: April 2024

Herein we report a one‐pot approach for the functionalized carbazoles and β‐carbolines via Fischer indole/Pictet‐Spengler type reactions followed by diethyl azodicarboxylate (DEAD) mediated dehydrogenative aromatization using Deep Eutectic Solvent (N,N’‐Dimethyl urea and L‐tartaric acid combination) as reaction medium. This one‐pot method enables the synthesis of library of compounds of carbazoles and β‐carbolines with good to excellent yields in short reaction times. The developed method was extended for the copper‐mediated reaction to minimize the amounts of DEAD required. Also, the application of gram scale reaction and reusability of the DES (in both cases) is demonstrated efficiently.
The Role of Extracellular Vesicles in the Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hu Cong , Chen Qi , Wu Tianyang , Du Xinxing , Dong Yanhao , Peng Zehong , Xue Wei , Sunkara Vijaya , Cho Yoon‐Kyoung , Dong Liang
Published: April 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) has become a public health concern in elderly men due to an ever‐increasing number of estimated cases. Unfortunately, the available treatments are unsatisfactory because of a lack of a durable response, especially in advanced disease states. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid‐bilayer encircled nanoscale vesicles that carry numerous biomolecules (e.g., nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids), mediating the transfer of information. The past decade has witnessed a wide range of EV applications in both diagnostics and therapeutics. First, EV‐based non‐invasive liquid biopsies provide biomarkers in various clinical scenarios to guide treatment; EVs can facilitate the grading and staging of patients for appropriate treatment selection. Second, EVs play a pivotal role in pathophysiological processes via intercellular communication. Targeting key molecules involved in EV‐mediated tumor progression (e.g., proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, immune escape, and drug resistance) is a potential approach for curbing PCa. Third, EVs are promising drug carriers. Naïve EVs from various sources and engineered EV‐based drug delivery systems have paved the way for the development of new treatment modalities. This review discusses the recent advancements in the application of EV therapies and highlights EV‐based functional materials as novel interventions for PCa.
Constructing B─N─P Bonds in Ultrathin Holey g‐C3N4 for Regulating the Local Chemical Environment in Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction to CO
Authors: Hussien Mahmoud Kamal , Sabbah Amr , Qorbani Mohammad , Putikam Raghunath , Kholimatussadiah Septia , Tzou Der‐Lii M. , Elsayed Mohamed Hammad , Lu Yu‐Jung , Wang Yen‐Yu , Lee Xing‐Hao , Lin Tsai‐Yu , Thang Nguyen Quoc , Wu Heng‐Liang , Haw Shu‐Chih , Wu Kevin C.‐W. , Lin Ming‐Chang , Chen Kuei‐Hsien , Chen Li‐Chyong
Published: April 2024

The lack of intrinsic active sites for photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) and fast recombination rate of charge carriers are the main obstacles to achieving high photocatalytic activity. In this work, a novel phosphorus and boron binary‐doped graphitic carbon nitride, highly porous material that exhibits powerful photocatalytic CO2 reduction activity, specifically toward selective CO generation, is disclosed. The coexistence of Lewis‐acidic and Lewis‐basic sites plays a key role in tuning the electronic structure, promoting charge distribution, extending light‐harvesting ability, and promoting dissociation of excitons into active carriers. Porosity and dual dopants create local chemical environments that activate the pyridinic nitrogen atom between the phosphorus and boron atoms on the exposed surface, enabling it to function as an active site for CO2RR. The P–N–B triad is found to lower the activation barrier for reduction of CO2 by stabilizing the COOH reaction intermediate and altering the rate‐determining step. As a result, CO yield increased to 22.45 µmol g−1 h−1 under visible light irradiation, which is ≈12 times larger than that of pristine graphitic carbon nitride. This study provides insights into the mechanism of charge carrier dynamics and active site determination, contributing to the understanding of the photocatalytic CO2RR mechanism.
Platelet Membrane Coated Cu9S8‐SNAP for Targeting NIR‐II Mild Photothermal Enhanced Chemodynamic/Gas Therapy of Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Wu Danping , Chen Xiaoyi , Yao Shijie , He Yichen , Chen Gongning , Hu Xiaojuan , Chen Yang , Lv Zhenye , Yu Jing , Jin Ketao , Cai Yu , Mou Xiaozhou
Published: April 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive and uncommon subtype of breast cancer with a poor prognosis. It is crucial to prioritise the creation of a nanotherapeutic method that is highly selective and actively targeting TNBC. This study explores a new nanosystem, Cu9S8‐SNAP@PM (C‐S@P), composed of Cu9S8‐SNAP coated with a platelet membrane (PM). The purpose of this nanosystem is to cure TNBC using multimodal therapy. The utilisation of PM‐coated nanoparticles (NPs) enables active targeting, leading to the efficient accumulation of C‐S@P within the tumour. The Cu9S8 component within these NPs serves the potential to exert photothermal therapy (PTT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT). Simultaneously, the S‐Nitroso‐N‐Acetylvanicillamine (SNAP) component enables nitric oxide (NO) gas therapy (GT). Furthermore, when exposed to NIR‐II laser light, Cu9S8 not only increases the temperature of the tumour area for PTT, but also boosts CDT and stimulates the release of NO through thermal reactions to improve the effectiveness of GT. Both in vitro and in vivo experimental results validate that C‐S@P exhibits minimal side effects and represents a multifunctional nano‐drug targeted at tumors for efficient treatment. This approach promises significant potential for TNBC therapy and broader applications in oncology.
Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Sensors Employing a Nanoparticle‐On‐Liquid‐Mirror (NPoLM) Architecture
Authors: Datta Shreyan , Vasini Shoaib , Miao Xianglong , Liu Peter Q.
Published: April 2024

Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensors typically employ nanophotonic structures that support high‐field confinement and enhancement in hotspots to increase the Raman scattering from target molecules by orders of magnitude. In general, high field and SERS enhancement can be achieved by reducing the critical dimensions and mode volumes of the hotspots to nanoscale. To this end, a multitude of SERS sensors employing photonic structures with nanometric hotspots have been demonstrated. However, delivering analyte molecules into nanometric hotspots is challenging, and the trade‐off between field confinement/enhancement and analyte delivery efficiency is a critical limiting factor for the performance of many nanophotonic SERS sensors. Here, a new type of SERS sensor employing solid‐metal nanoparticles and bulk liquid metal is demonstrated to form nanophotonic resonators with a nanoparticle‐on‐liquid‐mirror (NPoLM) architecture, which effectively resolves this trade‐off. In particular, this unconventional sensor architecture allows for the convenient formation of nanometric hotspots by introducing liquid metal after analyte molecules are efficiently delivered to the surface of gold nanoparticles. In addition, a cost‐effective and reliable process is developed to produce gold nanoparticles on a substrate suitable for forming NPoLM structures. These NPoLM structures achieve two orders of magnitude higher SERS signals than the gold nanoparticles alone.