bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A machine learning model for predicting congenital heart defects from administrative data
Authors: Shi Haoming , Book Wendy , Raskind‐Hood Cheryl , Downing Karrie F. , Farr Sherry L. , Bell Mary N. , Sameni Reza , Rodriguez Fred H. , Kamaleswaran Rishikesan
Published: September 2023

Introduction

International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes recorded in administrative data are often used to identify congenital heart defects (CHD). However, these codes may inaccurately identify true positive (TP) CHD individuals. CHD surveillance could be strengthened by accurate CHD identification in administrative records using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

Methods

To identify features relevant to accurate CHD identification, traditional ML models were applied to a validated dataset of 779 patients; encounter level data, including ICD‐9‐CM and CPT codes, from 2011 to 2013 at four US sites were utilized. Five‐fold cross‐validation determined overlapping important features that best predicted TP CHD individuals. Median values and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of area under the receiver operating curve, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value, sensitivity, specificity, and F1‐score were compared across four ML models: Logistic Regression, Gaussian Naive Bayes, Random Forest, and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost).

Results

Baseline PPV was 76.5% from expert clinician validation of ICD‐9‐CM CHD‐related codes. Feature selection for ML decreased 7138 features to 10 that best predicted TP CHD cases. During training and testing, XGBoost performed the best in median accuracy (F1‐score) and PPV, 0.84 (95% CI: 0.76, 0.91) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.91, 0.96), respectively. When applied to the entire dataset, XGBoost revealed a median PPV of 0.94 (95% CI: 0.94, 0.95).

Conclusions

Applying ML algorithms improved the accuracy of identifying TP CHD cases in comparison to ICD codes alone. Use of this technique to identify CHD cases would improve generalizability of results obtained from large datasets to the CHD patient population, enhancing public health surveillance efforts.
Digestibility, starch morphology, and nutritive value of rusks made from wheat flour with the addition of proso
Authors: Pavlicevic Milica , Vucinic Dajana , Stosic Miljana , Boely Elise , Filipcev Bojana , Dokic Ljubica , Pavlovic Vladimir , Rac Vladislav , Demin Mirjana , Radovic Biljana V. , Rakic Vesna
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives

“Modern diseases” that are the result of a “high sugar, low nutrient” diet are becoming more prevalent. Incorporation of “traditional” gluten‐free cereals, like proso, in “everyday” food, such as rusks, would allow diabetics and people looking to increase fiber and nutrient content to include rusks in their diet.

Findings

Compared to wheat rusks, rusks with the addition of proso showed a higher content of microelements and essential amino acids. Also, higher content of dietary fiber and smaller and more regularly arranged starch granules increased the digestibility of rusks with the addition of proso. Additionally, rusks with the addition of proso showed better antioxidative properties and had a lower glycemic index when compared with wheat rusks.

Conclusions

Incorporation of proso flour in rusk production could be beneficial not only to people suffering from diabetes but also as a way of improving general well‐being. However, due to the decreased water absorption and, therefore, greater hardness and fracturability, our results suggested that the addition of proso flour should be capped at 20%.

Significance and Novelty

To our knowledge, this is the first description of the effects of different additions of proso on digestibility, starch morphology, glycemic index, and nutritive and antioxidative properties of rusks.
A case of retro‐auricular panfolliculoma mimicking basal cell carcinoma: A rare adnexal tumor with a review of the literature
Authors: Al‐Zahawi Saman , Ghanadan Alireza , Etesami Ifa
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

A rare case of slow‐growing retro‐auricular panfolliculoma is presented. The lesion was biopsied to rule out basal cell carcinoma but histopathology revealed a follicular tumor with differentiation toward all segments of the hair follicle. Panfolliculoma is a benign follicular tumor with no report of recurrence after surgical excision and no malignant transformation of the previously reported cases.

Panfolliculoma is a rare slow growing adnexal tumor, characterized by differentiation toward all parts of the hair follicle including the infundibulum, isthmus, stem, and bulbs. Clinically this adnexal tumor may mimick basal cell carcinoma and other adnexal neoplasm including trichoblastoma and trichoepithelioma. In this study, we present a rare case of slow‐growing retro‐auricular panfolliculoma of a 70‐year‐old female mimicking basal cell carcinoma that was successfully excised without recurrence.
Hypoglycemia as first presentation of presumed immune checkpoint inhibitor‐induced type 1 diabetes
Authors: Kamal Rayyan Syed , Dean Arleigh , Dutt Hanna , Rajeh Adnan , Fernandes Ricardo
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

We present a case of a 60‐year‐old male diagnosed with metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma who developed hypoglycemia during induction ipilimumab and nivolumab treatment. This was diagnosed as presumed type 1 diabetes mellitus secondary to immunotherapy.
Preparation and Characterization of Hollow CeO2 Nanoparticles for the Efficient Conversion of CO2 into Dimethyl Carbonate
Authors: Hu Lihua , Hu Kairan , Xu Zhihao , Yao Wenxuan , Wang Aili , Wu Gongde , Xu Wei
Published: September 2023

The hollow CeO2 (H‐CeO2) nanoparticles with mesoporous defects structure were prepared by a solid template method under ambient pressure and applied to catalyze the conversion of CO2 into dimethyl carbonate (DMC). The textural properties of H‐CeO2 were investigated by various characterization techniques. The results showed that H‐CeO2 have higher surface area, more mesoporous defects and higher surface oxygen vacancies concentration than those of conventional CeO2 with block morphology (C‐CeO2). Therefore, H‐CeO2 exhibited better catalytic performance for the conversion of CO2 into DMC. Additionally, the Ce(NO3)3 ⋅ 6H2O amount in preparation procedure was important for the formation of hollow structure and mesoporous defects. The DMC yield could reach 4.96 % on H‐CeO2‐1.2 (Ce(NO3)3 ⋅ 6H2O amount: 1.2 g) catalyst when the reaction was performed at 140 °C and 4.5 MPa for 4 h. This work proposed a facile strategy for designing CeO2 catalysts for the CO2 conversion by creating mesoporous defective structure.
Iron‐Based Nanoparticles Oxygen Scavenger for Suppressing Heat‐Stable Salts Formation in Amine
Authors: Chin Sim Yee , Lim Soh Fong , Lau Kok Keong , Thangavel Mythili , Kamaruzaman Muhammad Ridzuan
Published: September 2023

Heat‐stable salts (HSS), which trigger excessing foaming in absorber, are formed when protonated methyl diethanolamine (MDEA) reacts with the more acidic degraded products in the presence of dissolved oxygen (DO). The aim is to suppress the HSS formation in MDEA solution inaugurally employing a hybrid iron‐based nanoparticles (HINP) oxygen scavenger. It was discovered that the oxygen‐scavenging performance of a more cost‐effective 20 %Fe/HZSM5 was one‐fold higher than the 20 %Fe/MCM‐41. The former was verified for its superior structural properties. The Fe2+ on its surface first reacted with DO, preventing DO from oxidizing the MDEA. Consequently, the absence of hydroxyl radicals eliminated the potential of formic acid formation, hence suppressing the MDEA‐acid HSS formation.
Controlled Potential Electrolysis: Transition from Fast to Slow Regimes in Homogeneous Molecular Catalysis. Application to the Electroreduction of CO2 Catalyzed by Iron Porphyrin
Authors: Deeba Rana , Collard Alexandra , Rollin Camille , Molton Florian , Chardon‐Noblat Sylvie , Costentin Cyrille
Published: September 2023

Molecular catalysis of electrochemical reactions is a field of intense activity because of the current interest in electrifying chemical transformations, including both electrosynthesis of organic molecules and production of fuels via small molecule activation. Controlled potential electrolysis (CPE) is often coupled with in situ in operando spectroscopic methods with the aim to gather mechanistic information regarding the catalytic species involved. Herein, considering a simple mechanism for a homogeneous molecular catalysis of an electrochemical reaction, we establish the concentration profile of the catalyst in the electrolysis cell enabling to envision the information that can be obtained from the coupling of this CPE with a spectroscopic probe in the cell compartment. We show how the characteristic parameters of the system (catalytic rate constant, cell dimensions and stirring rate) affect the response with particular emphasis on the transition between two limiting cases, namely a ‘fast’ catalysis regime where catalysis only takes place in a small layer adjacent to the electrode surface and a ‘slow’ catalysis regime where catalysis takes place in the bulk of the solution. These formal concepts are then illustrated with an experimental example, the electroreduction of CO2 in dimethylformamide homogeneously catalyzed by iron tetraphenylporphyrin and followed by UV‐vis spectroscopy.
Modulating Strain in Twisted Pyrene‐Fused Azaacenes
Authors: Mateos‐Martín Javier , Dhbaibi Kais , Melle‐Franco Manuel , Mateo‐Alonso Aurelio
Published: September 2023

The design and synthesis of strained aromatics provide an additional insight into the relationship between structure and properties. In the last years, several approaches to twist pyrene‐fused azaacenes have been developed that allow to introduce twists of different sizes. Herein, we describe the synthesis of a new set of twisted dibenzotetraazahexacenes constituted by fused pyrene and quinoxaline residues that have been distorted by introducing increasingly larger substituents on the quinoxaline residues. Their twisted structure has been demonstrated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Furthermore, absorption, fluorescence, electrochemical and theoretical studies shine light on the effects of the substituents and twists on the optoelectronic and redox properties.
One Ligand to Bind them All: S~C~S2− Carbon‐ and Sulfur‐Based Gem‐Dianion as Structuring Ligand for Iron Polymetallic Assemblies
Authors: Ravel‐Massol Raphaël , Munshi Sandip , Pujol Anthony , Garcia‐Serres Ricardo , Saffon‐Merceron Nathalie , Mézailles Nicolas , Fustier‐Boutignon Marie
Published: September 2023

Numerous synthetic models of the FeMo‐co cluster of nitrogenases have been proposed to find the simplest structure with relevant reactivity. Indeed, such structures are able to perform multi‐electrons reduction processes, such as the conversion of N2 to ammonia, and of CO2 into methane and alkenes. The most challenging parameter to imitate is indeed the central carbide ligand, which is believed to maintain the integrity of iron sulfide assembly during the course of catalytic cycles. The study proposes the use of bis(diphenylthiophosphinoyl)methanediide (SCS)2− as an ideal platform for the synthesis of bi‐ and tetra‐metallic iron complexes, in which the iron‐carbon interaction is maintained upon structural diversification and redox state changes.
Yet Another Case of Lithium Metal Atoms and Germanium Atoms Sharing Chemistry in the Solid State: Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Ba2LiGe3
Authors: Ghosh Kowsik , Bobev Svilen
Published: September 2023

Several Ba−Li−Ge ternary phases are known and structurally characterized, including the title compound Ba2LiGe3. Its structure is reported to contain [Ge6]10− anions that exhibit delocalized bonding with a Hückel‐like aromatic character. The Ge atoms are in the same plane with the Li atoms, and if both types of atoms are considered as covalently bonded, [LiGe3]4− honeycomb‐like layers will result. The latter are separated by slabs of Ba2+ cations. However, based on the systematic work detailed herein, it is necessary to re‐evaluate the phase as Ba2Li1−xGe3+x (x<0.05). Although small, the homogeneity range is clearly demonstrated in the gradual change of the unit cell for four independent samples. Subsequent characterization by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction methods shows that the Ba2Li1−xGe3+x structure, responds to the varied number of valence electrons and the changes are most pronounced for the refined lengths of the Li−Ge and Ge−Ge bonds. Indirectly, the changes in the Ge−Li/Ge distances within layers affect the stacking too, and these changes can be correlated to the variation of the c‐cell parameter. Chemical bonding analysis based on TB‐LMTO‐ASA level calculations affirms the notion for covalent character of the Ge−Ge bonds; the Ba−Ge and Li−Ge interactions also show some degree of covalency.
PI and PIII Ions Supported by BZIMPY Ligands
Authors: LaFortune James H. W. , Swidan Ala'aeddeen , Ovens Jeffrey S. , Qu Zheng‐Wang , Grimme Stefan , Land Michael A. , Macdonald Charles L. B.
Published: September 2023

We report a class of compounds in which both PIII−X and PI forms featuring the same ligand are stable and readily cycled with each other. A series of PIII−X (X=Cl, Br, I) dicationic triflate salts supported by benzyl‐ and allyl‐substituted 2,6‐bis(benzimidazole‐2‐yl)pyridine (BZIMPY) ligands is synthesized. Surprisingly, treatment of these with R3PO (R=Et, Oct) results in reduction to BZIMPY‐ligated PI monocationic triflate salts while treatment with Ph3P reduces but also substitutes the compound to produce Ph3P‐BZIMPY‐ligated PI dicationic triflate salts. The mechanisms of these surprising reductions are probed experimentally and rationalized computationally. The PIII−X dications are shown to be strong Lewis acids both experimentally and computationally and to readily behave as X+, PX, and P+ transfer agents in reactions with phosphines, NHCs, and diazabutadienes. The PI mono‐ and dications are shown to be very effective P+ transfer agents when treated similarly. Oxidation from a monocationic PI salt back to the dicationic PIII−X (X=Cl, Br) salt was achieved by treatment with N‐chlorosuccinimide (NCS) or N‐bromosuccinimide (NBS). Full characterization is reported using multinuclear nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffractometry where suitable crystals were isolated.
Composite dietary antioxidant index and the risk of heart failure: A cross‐sectional study from NHANES
Authors: Ma Yazhe , Liu Jiangwen , Sun Jianying , Cui Yanju , Wu Peng , Wei Feiyu , Gao Xiaolong , Ma Tao , Zhang Xi , Kuang Xiaohui , Fan Jie
Published: September 2023

Background

Previous studies show that oxidative stress is important in heart failure (HF) pathogenesis. The composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI), which reflects the antioxidant profile of nutrient supplements, is associated with cardiovascular mortality risk. However, the association between CDAI and the risk of HF remains unknown.

Hypothesis

In this study, we investigated the relationship between CDAI and HF risk using National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) data.

Methods

The data of participants aged >40 years old from the NHNANES between 2001 and 2018 were obtained and used to assess the relationship between CDAI and the risk of HF. Logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) of CDAI for the risk of HF.

Results

A total of 29 101 participants were divided into the HF (n = 1419; 4.88%) and non‐HF groups (n = 27 682; 95.12%), HF group participants had lower CDAI than the non‐HF group (−0.32 ± 0.14 vs. 0.67 ± 0.05, p < .0001). Compared with the lowest CDAI quartile (Q1), the OR for HF risk was 0.88 (0.68−1.13) for Q2 (p = .30), 0.77 (0.61−0.99) for Q3 (p = .04), and 0.68 (0.52−0.89) for Q4 (p = .01).

Conclusions

CDAI was negatively associated with the risk of HF. Our findings show that the intake of an antioxidant‐rich dietary is a potential method to reduce the risk of HF.
A Randomized Control Study in Healthy Adult Smokers to Assess Reduced Exposure to Selected Cigarette Smoke Constituents in Switching to the Novel Heated Tobacco Product DT3.0a
Authors: Nishihara Daisuke , Yuki Dai , Suzuki Takuya , Sakaguchi Chikako , Nagata Yasufumi , Kakehi Aoi
Published: September 2023

This was a randomized, controlled, open‐label, confinement study to assess change in exposure to selected cigarette smoke constituents in healthy adult cigarette smokers who switched to using a novel heated tobacco product (direct heating tobacco system, platform 3, generation 3, version a [DT3.0a]). Sixty nonmenthol cigarette smokers were randomized into 1 of the 4 study groups in which subjects switched to a nonmenthol type of tobacco stick used with DT3.0a, switched to a nonmenthol tobacco stick used with an in‐market heated tobacco product device (THS), continued to smoke nonmenthol cigarettes, or stopped smoking. Furthermore, 30 menthol cigarette smokers were randomized into 1 of the 2 study groups in which subjects switched to a menthol tobacco stick used with DT3.0a (mDT3.0a) or continued to smoke menthol cigarettes. Fifteen biomarkers of exposure to selected harmful and potentially harmful constituents (HPHCs) were measured during the 5‐day exposure period, followed by assessment of nicotine pharmacokinetics with the assigned product. Results indicated that switching to DT3.0a, THS, and mDT3.0a showed significant exposure reductions in most of the selected HPHCs as compared to continuing smoking cigarettes, with reductions being similar in magnitude to reductions observed with smoking cessation. For DT3.0a and mDT3.0a, nicotine pharmacokinetic parameters were not remarkably different from those obtained for cigarettes and the THS except that a longer time to maximum concentration was obtained following use of the mDT3.0a. In conclusion, switching from smoking cigarettes to DT3.0a or THS use reduced exposure to most of the selected HPHCs, and no remarkable differences were observed for the measurements obtained from different flavors of DT3.0a stick.
Effectiveness of intraoral splints in the treatment of migraine and tension‐type headache: A systematic review
Authors: Martínez‐Álvarez Olga , Wojtovicz Eduardo , Luís De la Hoz Jose , Mesa Juan , Armijo‐Olivo Susan
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The main objective of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of intraoral splints in treating migraine and tension‐type headaches.

Material and Methods

The article search was conducted within seven electronic databases (Medline, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL PLUS with full text, Cochrane Library Trials, Web of Science, and Scopus) with no date limits or language restrictions up to June 12, 2022. Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were set for article selection. At the same time as data extraction, each study's risk of bias (RoB) was evaluated using the Cochrane tool to assess their RoB. Subsequently, the Cochrane Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation was used to evaluate the certainty of the evidence.

Results

Four controlled clinical trials were included. These trials were heterogeneous in terms of (1) diagnosis, (2) design of the intraoral splints, and (3) tools for reporting the results, which made it difficult to compile the data as well as evaluate its quality. Trials reported a reduction in the frequency of headache and pain intensity when using intraoral splints; however, this therapy was not superior to medications.

Conclusions

The evidence is very low for the use of oral splints as a therapeutic alternative to medication in the treatment of migraine and/or tension‐type headache.
Fast Depolymerization of PET Bottle Mediated by Microwave Pre‐Treatment and An Engineered PETase
Authors: Guo Boyang , Lopez‐Lorenzo Ximena , Fang Yuan , Bäckström Eva , Capezza Antonio Jose , Vanga Sudarsan Reddy , Furó István , Hakkarainen Minna , Syrén Per‐Olof
Published: September 2023

Invited for this month′s cover is the groups of Prof. Minna Hakkarainen, Prof. István Furó and Assoc. Prof. Per‐Olof Syrén at KTH Royal Institute of Technology. The image shows how microwave irradiation is an efficient pre‐treatment method of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for subsequent biocatalytic depolymerization. The Research Article itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202300742.
Active power decoupling scheme of symmetrical LCL structure in single‐phase grid‐connected voltage source inverter for ultra‐high voltage transmission
Authors: Luo Jiacheng , Zhang Bo , Xiao Wenxun , Xie Fan
Published: September 2023

The voltage source converter (VSC) is an important component of ultra‐high voltage (UHV) technology, where the former is responsible for converting new energy sources into electricity and the latter enables the transmission of electricity over long distances. However, the VSC has a serious problem of oscillation power under three‐phase unbalance, which comes from the single‐phase voltage source inverter (VSI) that is the basic structure of VSC. So there is always the requirement for active power decoupling (APD). Conventional passive solutions increase the overall size significantly, and existing active solutions either require the addition of a decoupling topology or rely strongly on their own original topology and more complex control. To overcome this drawback, this paper proposes an improved APD method with a combination of topology‐type and control‐type decoupling features for single‐phase VSI based on the symmetrical LCL filter for solving the power oscillation problem of VSC at the source. The proposed structure can decrease common mode interference and can absorb the oscillation power by the original filter capacitors of the LCL filter. Besides, the original circuit components can be reused, and the decoupling is simple enough to achieve APD without affecting the full bridge control. Next, the control is optimized to reduce the compensation error and input voltage. Finally, the experimental device is carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
The carotenoid redshift: Physical basis and implications for visual signaling
Authors: McCoy Dakota E. , Shultz Allison J. , Dall Jacqueline E. , Dionne Jennifer A. , Johnsen Sönke
Published: September 2023

Carotenoid pigments are the basis for much red, orange, and yellow coloration in nature and central to visual signaling. However, as pigment concentration increases, carotenoid signals not only darken and become more saturated but they also redshift; for example, orange pigments can look red at higher concentration. This occurs because light experiences exponential attenuation, and carotenoid‐based signals have spectrally asymmetric reflectance in the visible range. Adding pigment disproportionately affects the high‐absorbance regions of the reflectance spectra, which redshifts the perceived hue. This carotenoid redshift is substantial and perceivable by animal observers. In addition, beyond pigment concentration, anything that increases the path length of light through pigment causes this redshift (including optical nano‐ and microstructures). For example, male Ramphocelus tanagers appear redder than females, despite the same population and concentration of carotenoids, due to microstructures that enhance light–pigment interaction. This mechanism of carotenoid redshift has sensory and evolutionary consequences for honest signaling in that structures that redshift carotenoid ornaments may decrease signal honesty. More generally, nearly all colorful signals vary in hue, saturation, and brightness as light–pigment interactions change, due to spectrally asymmetrical reflectance within the visible range of the relevant species. Therefore, the three attributes of color need to be considered together in studies of honest visual signaling.
Autumn migration of black‐necked crane (Grus nigricollis) on the Qinghai‐Tibetan and Yunnan‐Guizhou plateaus
Authors: Pu Zhen , Guo Yumin
Published: September 2023

Despite previous research efforts, the majority migration routes of the black‐necked cranes (Grus nigricollis) have remained veiled. In this study, we utilized satellite telemetry data from 45 cranes between 2015 and 2021 to unveil critical insights. Our results revealed 11 distinct autumn migration routes and one sedentary flock, of which eight routes and the sedentary flock were previously undocumented. Our findings highlighted the remarkable diversity in the migration routes of black‐necked cranes, especially in terms of migration orientations, spatial–temporal patterns, and altitudinal movement patterns. Cranes breeding on the eastern, northern, and central Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau migrated southward, while those on the northern slopes of the Himalayas migrated eastward, westward, northward, or opted to remain sedentary. Moreover, we expanded the known range of migration distances to 84–1520 km at both ends (excluding sedentary individuals) and identified two long‐term (Da Qaidam and Chaka) and one short‐term (Gyatong grassland) stopover sites. Furthermore, our study revealed that the breeding colonies in the Qilian Mountains on the northeastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau utilized long‐term stopover sites before embarking on significant altitude ascent, while other flocks displayed more urgent migration patterns, preferring to roost only at night. By unveiling the near‐complete autumn migration routes of black‐necked cranes, our research has contributed to discovering the critical habitats and connectivity among various breeding colonies, which is instrumental in developing effective seasonal conservation plans.
MicroRNAs as novel biomarkers and potential therapeutic options for inflammatory cardiomyopathy
Authors: Aleshcheva Ganna , Baumeier Christian , Harms Dominik , Bock C.‐Thomas , Escher Felicitas , Schultheiss Heinz‐Peter
Published: September 2023

Aims

Inflammation of the heart is a complex biological and pathophysiological response of the immune system to a variety of injuries leading to tissue damage and heart failure. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) emerge as pivotal players in the development of numerous diseases, suggesting their potential utility as biomarkers for inflammation and as viable candidates for therapeutic interventions. The primary aim of this investigation was to pinpoint and assess particular miRNAs in individuals afflicted by virus‐negative inflammatory dilated cardiomyopathy (DCMi).

Methods and results

The study involved the analysis of 152 serum samples sourced from patients diagnosed with unexplained heart failure through endomyocardial biopsy. Among these samples, 38 belonged to DCMi patients, 24 to DCM patients, 44 to patients displaying inflammation alongside diverse viral infections, and 46 to patients solely affected by viral infections without concurrent inflammation. Additionally, serum samples from 10 healthy donors were included. The expression levels of 754 distinct miRNAs were evaluated using TaqMan OpenArray. MiR‐1, miR‐23, miR‐142‐5p, miR‐155, miR‐193, and miR‐195 exhibited exclusive down‐regulation solely in DCMi patients (P < 0.005). These miRNAs enabled effective differentiation between individuals with inflammation unlinked to viruses (DCMi) and all other participant groups (P < 0.005), boasting a specificity surpassing 86%.

Conclusions

The identification of specific miRNAs offers a novel diagnostic perspective for recognizing intramyocardial inflammation within virus‐negative DCMi patients. Furthermore, these miRNAs hold promise as potential candidates for tailored therapeutic strategies in the context of virus‐negative DCMi.
CD40L modulates CD4+ T‐cell activation through receptor for activated C kinase 1
Authors: van Os Bram W. , Vos Winnie G. , Bosmans Laura A. , van Tiel Claudia M. , Toom Myrthe den , Beckers Linda , Admiraal Merel , Hoeksema Marten A. , de Winther Menno P. , Lutgens Esther
Published: September 2023

Inhibition of the co‐stimulatory ligand CD40L has shown beneficial effects in many experimental models of autoimmune disease and inflammation. Here, we show that CD40L deficiency in T cells in mice causes a reduction of CD4+ T‐cell activation and specifically a strong reduction in IFN‐γ‐producing Th1 cells. In vitro, we could not reproduce this antigen presenting cell‐dependent effects, but found that T‐cell CD40L affects cell death and proliferation. We identified receptor of activated C kinase, the canonical PKC binding partner and known to drive proliferation and apoptosis, as a mediator of CD40L reverse signaling. Furthermore, we found that CD40L clustering stabilizes IFN‐γ mediated Th1 polarization through STAT1, a known binding partner of receptor of activated C kinase. Together this highlights the importance of both CD40L forward and reverse signaling.
Integration of a perfusion reactor and continuous precipitation in an entirely membrane‐based process for antibody capture
Authors: Recanati Gabriele , Pappenreiter Magdalena , Gstoettner Christoph , Scheidl Patrick , Vega Elena Domínguez , Sissolak Bernhard , Jungbauer Alois
Published: September 2023

Continuous precipitation coupled with continuous tangential flow filtration is a cost‐effective alternative for the capture of recombinant antibodies from crude cell culture supernatant. The removal of surge tanks between unit operations, by the adoption of tubular reactors, maintains a continuous harvest and mass flow of product with the advantage of a narrow residence time distribution (RTD). We developed a continuous process implementing two orthogonal precipitation methods, CaCl2 precipitation for removal of host‐cell DNA and polyethylene glycol (PEG) for capturing the recombinant antibody, with no influence on the glycosylation profile. Our lab‐scale prototype consisting of two tubular reactors and two stages of tangential flow microfiltration was continuously operated for up to 8 days in a truly continuous fashion and without any product flow interruption, both as a stand‐alone capture and as an integrated perfusion‐capture. Furthermore, we explored the use of a negatively charged membrane adsorber for flow‐through anion exchange as first polishing step. We obtained a product recovery of approximately 80% and constant product quality, with more than two logarithmic reduction values (LRVs) for both host‐cell proteins and host‐cell DNA by the combination of the precipitation‐based capture and the first polishing step.
Nearshore ice complex breakup is controlled by a balance between thermal and mechanical processes
Authors: Theuerkauf Ethan J. , Zoet Lucas K. , Dodge Stefanie E. , Tuttle William , Rawling J. Elmo
Published: September 2023

Shore ice is an important facet of cold‐climate coastal geomorphology yet is generally understudied in comparison to other aspects such as nearshore hydrodynamics. Climate change is resulting in more dynamic shore ice regimes (i.e., shortened ice season and multiple freeze–thaw cycles); thus, a clear understanding of the role of shore ice in coastal geomorphic evolution is needed. The presence of shore ice is generally thought to provide the coast a protective buffer from storm waves though some studies have indicated enhanced nearshore erosion and sediment transport associated with ice development. This is particularly apparent during the breakup phase of shore ice as sediment can be scoured from the bed, deposited in place, or transported offshore. Given this, understanding the mechanics of shore ice breakup is critical. This study documents the first combined field and laboratory evaluation of the physical conditions leading to shore ice breakup, detailing the complex interplay between thermal and mechanical processes in ice deterioration. Through a wave tank experiment as well as field observations, wave impacts alone are shown to be unlikely to cause breakup of shore ice and thermal weakening is required. This has important implications both for predicting when ice will break up as well as for identifying potential nearshore sediment transport pathways. If ice breaks up entirely from thermal degradation, then sediment is likely to be deposited in place, whereas if ice breaks up from a combination of thermal degradation and wave impact, then sediment can be redistributed across the shoreface. Monitoring of meteorological conditions during ice breakup can likely be used as a first‐order predictor of geomorphic changes resulting from shore ice deterioration.
Defining and preparing for diversity teacherhood—Chinese Minzu (“ethnic”) teacher education as an example
Authors: Chen Ning , Dervin Fred
Published: September 2023

This qualitative study examines how teacher educators in Northwest China conceive of teacherhood and teacher preparation for working with diverse “Minzu” (“ethnic”) students. Based on multiple dataset collected among teacher educators, findings reveal that Minzu teacherhood was polysemic and complex. In their descriptions of how they prepare preservice teachers, the teacher educators presented, for example, aspects of learning to respect students, learning to remove prejudice, and focusing on individuality. These elements show some similarities between Minzu teacher education and, for example, (“Western”) multicultural/intercultural (teacher) education. However, because of the socioeconomic–political specificities of the Chinese context, many elements differed. There are clear signs that effective and consistent measures have been invested in and developed by the teacher educators. The authors argue that global scholarship on diversity in teacher education could be inspired by Chinese Minzu teacher education.
Wheat germ, a byproduct of the wheat milling industry, as a beneficial source of anti‐aging polyamines: A quantitative comparison of various forms
Authors: Mohajeri Maryam , Ayatollahi Seyed Abdulmajid , Kobarfard Farzad , Goli Mohammad , Khandan Maryam , Mokhtari Shaya , Khodadoost Mahmoud
Published: September 2023

Polyamines have received a lot of attention since the 1990s because of their anti‐aging, anti‐chronic disease, and proliferative effects. Wheat germ was reported as one of the natural sources of high polyamine, especially spermidine. The current study used three types of wheat germ: group A was industrially separated germ from whole grain, group B was the commercially available germinated wheat germ, and group C was manually separated wheat germ from germinated grain. The polyamine content of putrescine, spermidine, and spermine has been determined using a simplified isocratic LC–MS/MS method. An optimized extraction procedure was performed on all seven samples for obtaining a polyamine‐enriched extract. The three dominant carbomylated polyamines were identified by analyzing the extracted samples in order to determine their relative abundance. Wheat germ powders contain the highest amount of polyamines (220–337 μg/g) of which spermidine is one of the most important. Germinated wheat grains, on the other hand, contain the least amount of this polyamine. The commercially available separated wheat germs are suggested as a good nutrition source of these polyamines.
Extension of shelf life of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fillets using seaweed extracts during refrigerated storage
Authors: Shahrier Jaki , Rasul Golam , Afrin Faria , Islam Rabiul , Shah A. K. M. Azad
Published: September 2023

The effects of seaweed (Padina tetrastromatica, Sargassum natans, and Sargassum fluitans) ethanolic extracts on the quality and shelf life extension of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fillets were investigated during refrigerated storage for 20 days. Each of the seaweed ethanolic extracts solution (2%, w/v) was used for dipping the fish fillets for 10 min at 4°C. The control and seaweed extract‐treated fillets were stored at 4 ± 1°C in air‐tight polyethylene bags, and chemical, bacteriological, and sensory evaluation were performed at every 4 days' intervals. During the storage period, P. tetrastromatica extract significantly (p < .05) reduced the increment of pH, peroxide value, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and total volatile basic nitrogen values in Nile tilapia fillets compared to other seaweed extracts‐treated and untreated fillets. The maximal total viable count of control, P. tetrastromatica, S. natans, and S. fluitans extracts‐treated fillets was 6.53, 7.11, 6.75, and 7.10 log CFU/g at the 8th, 20th, 12th, and 16th days of storage, respectively. The total psychrotrophic count of control and seaweed extracts‐treated fillets was also significantly increased (p < .05) throughout the storage period. The P. tetrastromatica extracts‐treated fillets showed better sensory characteristics than other seaweed extracts‐treated and control fillets. Results of this study suggest that ethanolic extracts (2%, w/v) of P. tetrastromatica extend the shelf life for 12 days longer than the control fillets in refrigerated conditions.
The palliative care symptoms of people with dementia on admission to a mental health ward
Authors: Wolverson Emma , Appleyard Sara , Stirland Sarah , Gower Zoe
Published: September 2023

Key points

When patients with dementia are admitted to a mental health ward it is important to undertake a thorough assessment of palliative care needs.

The Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale for Dementia can support the assessment and management of palliative care symptoms and concerns in mental health wards.
Dynamic network characteristics of adolescents with major depressive disorder: Attention network mediates the association between anhedonia and attentional deficit
Authors: Wen Yujiao , Li Hong , Huang Yangxi , Qiao Dan , Ren Tian , Lei Lei , Li Gaizhi , Yang Chunxia , Xu Yifan , Han Min , Liu Zhifen
Published: September 2023

Attention deficit is a critical symptom that impairs social functioning in adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD). In this study, we aimed to explore the dynamic neural network activity associated with attention deficits and its relationship with clinical outcomes in adolescents with MDD. We included 188 adolescents with MDD and 94 healthy controls. By combining psychophysics, resting‐state electroencephalography (EEG), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) techniques, we aimed to identify dynamic network features through the investigation of EEG microstate characteristics and related temporal network features in adolescents with MDD. At baseline, microstate analysis revealed that the occurrence of Microstate C in the patient group was lower than that in healthy controls, whereas the duration and coverage of Microstate D increased in the MDD group. Mediation analysis revealed that the probability of transition from Microstate C to D mediated anhedonia and attention deficits in the MDD group. fMRI results showed that the temporal variability of the dorsal attention network (DAN) was significantly weaker in patients with MDD than in healthy controls. Importantly, the temporal variability of DAN mediated the relationship between anhedonia and attention deficits in the patient group. After acute‐stage treatment, the response prediction group (RP) showed improvement in Microstates C and D compared to the nonresponse prediction group (NRP). For resting‐state fMRI data, the temporal variability of DAN was significantly higher in the RP group than in the NRP group. Overall, this study enriches our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying attention deficits in patients with MDD and provides novel clinical biomarkers.
The long‐term effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of public health interventions; how can we model behavior? A review
Authors: Squires Hazel , Kelly Michael P. , Gilbert Nigel , Sniehotta Falko , Purshouse Robin C.
Published: September 2023

The effectiveness and cost of a public health intervention is dependent on complex human behaviors, yet health economic models typically make simplified assumptions about behavior, based on little theory or evidence. This paper reviews existing methods across disciplines for incorporating behavior within simulation models, to explore what methods could be used within health economic models and to highlight areas for further research. This may lead to better‐informed model predictions. The most promising methods identified which could be used to improve modeling of the causal pathways of behavior‐change interventions include econometric analyses, structural equation models, data mining and agent‐based modeling; the latter of which has the advantage of being able to incorporate the non‐linear, dynamic influences on behavior, including social and spatial networks. Twenty‐two studies were identified which quantify behavioral theories within simulation models. These studies highlight the importance of combining individual decision making and interactions with the environment and demonstrate the importance of social norms in determining behavior. However, there are many theoretical and practical limitations of quantifying behavioral theory. Further research is needed about the use of agent‐based models for health economic modeling, and the potential use of behavior maintenance theories and data mining.
Sociodemographic and obstetric factors associated with health‐related quality of life of high‐risk pregnant women
Authors: Gadelha Ivyna P. , Barros Maria A. R. , de Freitas Bruna B. , de Lima Mesquita Annita , Sales Nirvana M. , Alexandre Camila E. C. , de Oliveira Camila A. N. , Cardoso Alexandrina M. R. , Biazus Dalcin Camila , de S. Aquino Priscila
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the association between sociodemographic and obstetric factors and the health‐related quality of life of pregnant women in high‐risk prenatal care.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of women in high‐risk prenatal care in Ceara, Brazil. The investigated outcomes were health‐related quality of life, using the Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item short‐form health survey; the investigated covariates were sociodemographic and obstetric data. Associative analyses were performed using the Jamovi® software version 0.9.

Results

Of the 276 women included in the study, women with the following characteristics presented a better quality of life in some domain of the scale: age equal to or greater than 35 years, higher income per dependent, religious, living with three or fewer persons, with their own home, in primigestation, nulliparous, with no history of previous abortion, and with up to two living children. The regression model showed an association between the total scale score, which means a higher quality of life in women with age equal to or greater than 35 years and a higher income per dependent.

Conclusion

The study identified sociodemographic and obstetric factors that may affect the quality of life of high‐risk pregnant women, providing subsidies to health providers so that they can promote better prenatal care.
Top tips for treating the emergency case of Addison's disease
Authors: Spence Susanna , Gunn Eilidh
Published: September 2023

Background: Although a potentially life‐threatening endocrine emergency, if diagnosed promptly and treated appropriately, the majority of acute Addisonian crises represent very rewarding cases to treat. A complete review of the diagnosis and management of acute and chronic hypoadrenocorticism (including atypical Addison's disease) was published in In Practice (Spence and others 2018).

Aim of the article: This article aims to supplement the previously published review with some additional considerations in the management of acute Addisonian crises.
Multimodal label‐free imaging of murine hepatocellular carcinoma with a subcellular resolution
Authors: Chebotarev Artem S. , Ledyaeva Veronika S. , Patsap Olga I. , Ivanov Anatoli A. , Fedotov Andrei B. , Belousov Vsevolod V. , Shokhina Arina G. , Lanin Aleksandr A.
Published: September 2023

We demonstrate label‐free imaging of genetically induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a murine model provided by two‐ and three‐photon fluorescence microscopy of endogenous fluorophores excited at the central wavelengths of 790, 980 and 1250 nm and reinforced by second and third harmonic generation microscopy. We show, that autofluorescence imaging presents abundant information about cell arrangement and lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), harmonics generation microscopy provides a versatile tool for fibrogenesis and steatosis study. Multimodal images may be performed by a single ultrafast laser source at 1250 nm falling in tissue transparency window. Various grades of HCC are examined revealing fibrosis, steatosis, liver cell dysplasia, activation of HSCs and hepatocyte necrosis, that shows a great ability of multimodal label‐free microscopy to intravital visualization of liver pathology development.
Electrocardiogram Changes Following Intravenous Bisphosphonate Infusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shoung Alex , Shoung Nicholas , Hii Rachael , Nerlekar Nitesh , Ebeling Peter R , Rodríguez Alexander J
Published: September 2023

Bisphosphonates are first-line treatments for several bone and mineral disorders. Studies have reported an increased incidence of serious atrial fibrillation in patients receiving bisphosphonates; however, uncertainty remains as to whether electrical disturbances are precipitated by bisphosphonates. We aimed to review the literature for studies reporting electrocardiogram (ECG) findings in patients receiving intravenous bisphosphonates for any indication. We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE from inception until January 14, 2023, for studies reporting ECG parameters after intravenous bisphosphonate infusion. We excluded studies that only reported atrial fibrillation. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Continuous data were meta-analyzed if reported in at least two studies. Random-effects models were fitted and reported as standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). We found 1083 unique records, of which 11 met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies had a low to low/moderate risk of bias. Six prospective cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis. Five studies used zoledronic acid, whereas one study used pamidronate. Most studies (n = 4) were conducted in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, one study was conducted in patients with bone metastases, and one study in children with osteoporosis secondary to cerebral palsy. Study populations ranged from n = 15 to n = 116. Heart rate–corrected QT (QTc) was significantly longer post-infusion (SMD = 0.46 ms [95% CI 0.80 to 0.11]; n = 67 patients, k = 2 studies, τ2 = 0). There were no differences in heart rate, P wave (maximum), P wave (minimum), P wave dispersion, PR interval, QRS duration, QTc, QTc (maximum), QTc (minimum), and QTc dispersion. The correlation between pre- and post-infusion QTc was not significant (p = 0.93). Overall, there is a weak association between intravenous bisphosphonate infusion and a QTc interval prolongation. However, there is insufficient evidence to support an association between intravenous bisphosphonate and any ECG variable changes, which may precipitate atrial fibrillation. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).