bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco‐friendly and facile modified superhydrophobic melamine sponge by molybdenum sulfide for oil/water separation
Authors: Li Lei , Chen Rui , Wen Fengyu , He Yashu , Cheng Lin , Ma Jierun , Mu Jianxin
Published: March 2023

Oily wastewater has caused serious damage to the human health and ecological environment. It is urgent to develop novel materials for high performance oil/water separation. Porous melamine sponges (MS) are considered as an ideal matrix material for oil/water separation. Herein, molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) modified with tannic acid (TA) and octadecylamine (ODA) was attached to MS framework via a facile dip‐coating method. This novel and eco‐friendly MS@(MoS2@ODA) sponge displays superior superhydrophobicity (WCA = 156.2°) and oil/water separation ability (absorption capacity = 113–145 g g−1). MoS2@ODA not only enhances surface roughness of MS framework, but also raises its specific surface area, causing an increase in the oil adsorption capacity of MS. Moreover, the composite sponge exhibited excellent chemical and mechanical stability. It is envisioned that this work can demonstrate a facile synthesis strategy for producing environmental friendliness MS with stable superhydrophobicity for high‐efficient oil/water separation.
Effect of dynamic vulcanization on the performance of high content rubber modified asphalt
Authors: Zhang Zilun , Yang Wei , Ma Yuetan , Zhang Chuanping , Wang Shifeng
Published: March 2023

High content rubber modified asphalt (HCRA) is usually prepared with devulcanized rubber (DR) in asphalt with good workability. However, the high‐temperature properties of HCRA deteriorate simultaneously. In this study, dynamic vulcanization approach was adopted to improve the high‐temperature properties of HCRA without mitigating the workability and low‐temperature performance of modified binder blends. The dynamic vulcanization process and mechanism were investigated based on the gel content, related chemical reactions, morphology, rheological behavior, and tensile properties of HCRA. The occurrence of dynamic vulcanization was confirmed by the increase in gel content. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy reflected that CC bonds in trans‐olefins participated in dynamic vulcanization, followed by the reaction of those in conjugated olefins. Optical microscopy tests showed that dynamic vulcanization also improved the compatibility between the DR and asphalt. It was found that dynamic vulcanization of HCRA is the gradual stabilization process to form local cross‐linked networks in asphalt. With the addition of sulfur, degradation, aging, and dynamic vulcanization took place simultaneously in HCRA. Dynamic vulcanization increased the high‐temperature properties, fracture toughness, as well as storage stability of HCRA. Furthermore, dynamic vulcanization restricted rubber degradation and improved the aging behavior of HCRA.
Fiber type and metabolic characteristics of skeletal muscle in 16 breeds of domestic dogs
Authors: van Boom Kathryn M. , Schoeman Johan P. , Steyl Johan C. A. , Kohn Tertius A.
Published: March 2023

The domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) species comprises hundreds of breeds, each differing in physical characteristics, behavior, strength, and running capability. Very little is known about the skeletal muscle composition and metabolism between the different breeds, which may explain disease susceptibility. Muscle samples from the triceps brachii (TB) and vastus lateralis (VL) were collected post mortem from 35 adult dogs, encompassing 16 breeds of varying ages and sex. Samples were analyzed for fiber type composition, fiber size, oxidative, and glycolytic metabolic capacity (citrate synthase [CS], 3‐hydroxyacetyl‐coA dehydrogenase [3HAD], creatine kinase [CK], and lactate dehydrogenase [LDH] enzyme activities). There was no significant difference between the TB and VL in any of the measurements. However, there were large intra species variation, with some variables confirming the physical attributes of a specific breed. Collectively, type IIA was the predominant fiber type followed by type I and type IIX. The cross‐sectional areas (CSA) of the fibers were all smaller when compared to humans and similar to other wild animals. There was no difference in the CSA between the fiber types and muscle groups. Metabolically, the muscle of the dog displayed high oxidative capacity with high activities for CS and 3HAD. Lower CK and higher LDH activities than humans indicate a lower and higher flux through the high energy phosphate and glycolytic pathways, respectively. The high variability found across the different breeds may be attributed to genetics, function or lifestyle which have largely been driven through human intervention. This data may provide a foundation for future research into the role of these parameters in disease susceptibility, such as insulin resistance and diabetes, across breeds.
Relating the visceral factor of pain to domain‐specific risk attitudes
Authors: König Adriana N. , Linkohr Birgit , Peters Annette , Ladwig Karl‐Heinz , Laxy Michael , Schwettmann Lars
Published: March 2023

Visceral factors are negative emotions and drive and feeling states that grab people's attention and motivate them to engage in certain behaviors. They can contribute to discrepancies between an individual's long‐term self‐interest and their actual behavior. One such discrepancy concerns risk‐taking in health contexts as well as in a variety of other domains such as financial or career‐related decisions. This study examines the relationship between somatic symptoms of pain and domain‐specific risk attitudes in participants of a large population‐based cohort study. Somatic symptoms refer to back pain; pain in arms, legs, or joints; and headache. We show that the association between pain and risk attitudes is especially robust for the financial and leisure/sports domain across different model specifications. Pain is negatively associated with willingness to take risks in both domains. When controlling for fatigue (another visceral factor), the relationship between pain and risk attitudes persists only in the financial context. However, associations between fatigue and risk attitudes emerge in the general, health, leisure/sports, and career domains. We discuss potential implications of our findings especially in light of financial decision‐making.
A review of the coracoclavicular joint: Description, etiology, and clinical significance
Authors: Williamson Matthew A.
Published: March 2023

The coracoclavicular joint (CCJ) is a synovial joint that forms between the conoid tubercle of the clavicle and the coracoid process of the scapula in approximately 2.5% of the population. The number of bilateral to unilateral cases is almost equal. The number of right‐sided and left‐sided cases is also almost equal. It is found in both males and females but most often in male adults. Very few cases have been identified in juveniles. Found in populations all over the world, the highest frequencies of CCJ are in Asia. The etiology is unknown but it is most likely caused by metaplastic change of the trapezoid and surrounding tissue due to compression and friction of the coracoacromial ligament between the clavicle and coracoid process. Typically asymptomatic, but if so, the most common complaint is anterior should pain exacerbated by extreme abduction. Successful treatment includes steroid injection and surgical excision.
Withanolides from Physalin angulata and Their Inhibitory Effects on Nitric Oxide Production
Authors: Tan Yu‐Hang , Cai Yu‐Xing , Kong Min , Li Ya‐Lin , Yu Zhan‐Peng , Kong Ling‐Yi , Luo Jian‐Guang
Published: March 2023

Six new withanolides, angulasteroidins A−F (1–6), along with twelve known analogs (7‐18) were isolated from the whole plants of Physalis angulata. Their structures were elucidated by analysis of 1D and 2D NMR, ECD and IR spectra, HR‐ESI‐MS data, and ECD calculation. Compounds 1 and 6 were rare 1–10 seco withanolides. Compounds 2–4, 7–9, and 15 exhibited significant inhibitory activity on the production of nitric oxide in the LPS‐activated RAW 264.7 mouse macrophage cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 0.23 to 9.06 μM.
The effectiveness of tyrosine kinase inhibitor for chronic myeloid leukemia in tuberous sclerosis. A case report and review of literature
Authors: Al‐Abdulmalek Abdulrahman , Al‐Suliman Reem , Abu‐Tineh Mohammad , Ali Mostafa , Yassin Mohamed A.
Published: March 2023

The relationship between chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and tuberous sclerosis (TS) is unusual and uncommon. Here, we report a 24‐year‐old woman diagnosed with TS and later identified with CML, as the second case reported with such coexistence, treated with Nilotinib. This article proposes a hypothesis to explain the association. Therefore, we propose Nilotinib for the treatment of patients with such coexisting diseases. Further studies are warranted to reveal the dynamics between these conditions.
Ultrasound‐guided femoral and sciatic nerve block as an option for below‐knee amputation in an elderly patient: A case report
Authors: Devkota Sagar , Thapa Yubaraj
Published: March 2023

Peripheral nerve blocks can be a very safe option in elderlypatients with multiple comorbidities where spinal or general anesthesia may be associated with increased risks. We present a 67 years male taking antiplatelet drugs with deranged coagulation profile with bilateral pneumonia with diabetic foot with wet gangrene planned for emergency below knee amputation under ultrasound guided femoral and sciatic nerve block.
Pancreatic pseudocyst as a cause for gastric outlet obstruction
Authors: Suleman Mujaheed , Tadayo Joshua , Tendwa Irene , Amsi Patrick , Tsandiraki Justin , Lodhia Jay
Published: March 2023

The pancreatic pseudocyst contains pancreatic enzymes encapsulated by a non‐epithelialized wall. They are rare in the pediatric population and are mostly a result of pancreatic trauma: extrinsic, or intrinsic. Management options include conservative or surgical, depending on the clinical signs and symptoms, and the size of the cyst.
Orbital pseudotumor in pediatrics: A single tertiary center experience
Authors: Almuqbil Mohammed
Published: March 2023

Orbital pseudotumor is a rare condition characterized by an idiopathic inflammatory process of the orbit with a polymorphous lymphoid infiltrate. It is misdiagnosed as orbital cellulitis or orbital mass with conjunctivitis in children.
Intelligent component detection of quaternary blended oil based on near infrared spectroscopy technology
Authors: Zhao Zhide , Sun Laijun , Bai Hongyi , Zhang Hong , Tian Yujie
Published: March 2023

In this study, near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technique was used for quantitative detection of quaternary blended oil. After a series of preprocessing, the prediction effects of the three models and their preprocessing combinations were compared. Taking soybean oil content prediction as an example, random forest (RF) model had better performance after second derivative (D2) optimization. In feature selection, a two‐step feature selection method was adopted to extract the feature wavelength. First, the elastic net (EN) was used for the initial screening of feature wavelengths, and most irrelevant features were eliminated. The number of feature wavelengths was reduced from 1048 to 134. After that, the competitive adaptive re‐weighted sampling (CARS) method was used to screen the remaining characteristic wavelengths more carefully, and 20 effective characteristic wavelengths were selected. Finally, a quantitative detection model was established based on 20 effective characteristic wavelengths selected by EN + CARS. Evaluated by the test set, The correlation coefficient of determination (R2), root‐mean‐square error of prediction (RMSEP) and Relative Percent Difference (RPD) values of 2D + EN + CARS + RF model were 0.97953, 1.34306 and 7.08875, respectively. The results showed that the two‐step feature selection method can effectively extract the feature wavelength, and the NIRS technology can realize the intelligent detection of blended oil components.
Organic‐Inorganic Phenolic/POSS Hybrids Provide Highly Ordered Mesoporous Structures Templated by High Thermal Stability of PS‐b‐P4VP Diblock Copolymer
Authors: Chou Ting‐Chih , Chen Wei‐Cheng , Mohamed Mohamed Gamal , Huang Yen‐Chi , Kuo Shiao‐Wei
Published: March 2023

Anionic living polymerization was used to prepare a diblock copolymer of poly(styrene‐b‐4‐vinyl pyridine) (PS‐b‐P4VP), and a phenolic resin with a double‐decker silsesquioxane (DDSQ) cage structure was used to form a phenolic/DDSQ hybrid (PDDSQ‐30 with 30 wt.% DDSQ). Strong intermolecular hydrogen bonding could be confirmed through the hydroxyl (OH) groups of PDDSQ hybrid with the pyridine group of the P4VP block in PDDSQ‐30/PS‐b‐P4VP blends based on Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses, where increasing PDDSQ concentrations resulted in a higher proportion of hydrogen‐bonded pyridine groups. After thermal polymerization at 180 °C, the self‐assembled structures of these PDDSQ/PS‐b‐P4VP blends were revealed by data from small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), where the d‐spacing increased with raising PDDSQ concentration. Because relatively higher thermal stability of the PDDSQ hybrid than pure phenolic resin and PS‐b‐P4VP template, we can obtain the long ranger order of mesoporous PDDSQ hybrids after removing the PS‐b‐P4VP template, which reveals the high surface area and high pore volume with cylindrical and spherical structures corresponding to the PDDSQ compositions that are rarely observed by using pure phenolic resin as the matrix and could be used in supercapacitor application.
Collimating the growth of twisted crystals of achiral compounds
Authors: Lozano Idalys , Whittaker St. John , Yang Yongfan , Tiwari Akash , Zhou Hengyu , Kim Shin , Mendoza Magaly , Sow Maryam , Shtukenberg Alexander G. , Kahr Bart , An Zhihua , Lee Stephanie S.
Published: March 2023

A great proportion of molecular crystals can be made to grow as twisted fibrils. Typically, this requires high crystallization driving forces that lead to spherulitic textures. Here, it is shown how micron size channels fabricated from poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) serve to collimate the circular polycrystalline growth fronts of optically banded spherulites of twisted crystals of three compounds, coumarin, 2,5‐bis(3‐dodecyl‐2‐thienyl)‐thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole, and tetrathiafulvalene. The relationships between helicoidal pitch, growth front coherence, and channel width are measured. As channels spill into open spaces, collimated crystals “diffract” via small angle branching. On the other hand, crystals grown together from separate channels whose bands are out of phase ultimately become a single in‐phase bundle of fibrils by a cooperative mechanism yet unknown. The isolation of a single twist sense in individual channels is described. We forecast that such chiral molecular crystalline channels may function as chiral optical wave guides.
Promise of bile circulating tumor DNA in biliary tract cancers
Authors: Kearney Joseph F. , Weighill Deborah , Yeh Jen Jen
Published: March 2023

An explosion of technological advances has facilitated the unprecedented use of liquid biopsy methods to isolate and interrogate circulating tumor DNA for precision oncology approaches. Liquid biopsy samples are not isolated to plasma but include bodily fluids such as urine and bile. In this issue, Ohyama et al. present a prospective study of patients with biliary tract cancers who underwent cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) isolation from bile and plasma, further demonstrating the feasibility and promise of bile cfDNA for biliary tract malignancies.
“Rhapsody in blue”—the blue color in architecture and the built environment: traditions and contemporary applications
Authors: Tarajko‐Kowalska Justyna
Published: March 2023

The main goal of this article is to summarize and present the most important facts concerning the use of the blue color in the built environment, considering its symbolic, functional, and decorative aspects. This monograph of color is aimed to contribute to a better understanding and clarify the place and meaning of the blue color in the architectural space and allow architects to use this color with greater awareness of its characteristic features in the historical context. The results of the detailed analysis of more than 200 blue buildings, collected by the author since 2006, are grouped into seven main thematic sections, which express different ways of applying blue in the architectural space: as a symbol/idea, the color of the sky, as traditional, contrast, and material color, as a visual attribute and brand color, and last but not least as the color of the light. The main conclusion is that, although the rationales for using blue color in architecture were diverse, symbolic and aesthetic considerations prevailed. As the dominating color of the sky and water, blue is considered the most intangible of all hues in architecture. Also, as a worldwide attribute of divinity, connected with Heaven as the domicile of deities and gods, it has received a considerable spiritual load. The universality of this symbolism, combined with the high cost of pigments, has given the blue color its unique and exclusive value. Even nowadays, despite the greater availability of blue materials and colorants, blue has not become a prevalent color in architecture. On the contrary, its visual impact, both in glass curtain walls and in night illuminations, still emphasizes its immateriality and reference to spiritual symbolism.
Thiopurine Methyltransferase Intermediate Metabolizer Status and Thiopurine‐Associated Toxicity During Maintenance Therapy in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Schwarz Ute I. , Woldanski‐Travaglini Morgan , Swanston Valerie , Mikhail Mariam , Cacciotti Chantel , Cairney Elizabeth , Patel Serina , Seelisch Jennifer , Tole Soumitra , Wilejto Marta , Tirona Rommel G. , Kim Richard B. , Zorzi Alexandra P.
Published: March 2023

Mercaptopurine is a cornerstone of maintenance chemotherapy in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Its cytotoxic effects are mediated by 6‐thioguanine nucleotides (TGNs) incorporation into lymphocyte DNA. Thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) inactivates mercaptopurine, and deficiency resulting from genetic variants increases TGN exposure and hematopoietic toxicity. Although mercaptopurine‐dose reduction reduces toxicity risk without compromising relapse rate in patients with TPMT deficiency, dosing recommendations for those with moderately reduced activity (intermediate metabolizer (IM)) are less clear and their clinical impacts have yet to be established. This cohort study assessed the effect of TPMT IM status on mercaptopurine‐associated toxicity and TGN blood exposure in pediatric patients with ALL initiated on standard dose mercaptopurine. Of 88 patients studied (mean age 4.8 years), 10 (11.4%) were TPMT IM, and all had undergone ≥ 3 cycles of maintenance therapy (80% completed). A larger proportion of TPMT IM than normal metabolizers (NM) had febrile neutropenia (FN) during the first two cycles of maintenance, reaching significance in the second cycle (57% vs. 15%, respectively; odds ratio = 7.33, P < 0.05). Compared to NM, FN events occurred more frequently and with prolonged duration in IM in cycles 1 and 2 (adjusted P < 0.05). IM had a 2.46‐fold increased hazard ratio for FN, and about twofold higher TGN level than NM (P < 0.05). Myelotoxicity was more common in IM than NM (86% vs. 42%, respectively) during cycle 2 (odds ratio = 8.2, P < 0.05). TPMT IM initiated at a standard mercaptopurine dose are at greater risk for FN during early cycles of maintenance therapy, thus our findings support genotype‐guided dose adjustment to reduce toxicity.
Identification and characterization of stripe rust, leaf rust, leaf spot, and common bunt resistance in spring wheat
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Semagn Kassa , Randhawa Harpinder , Aboukhaddour Reem , Ciechanowska Izabela , Strenzke Klaus , N'Diaye Amidou , Pozniak Curtis , Spaner Dean
Published: March 2023

Hundreds of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) have been reported in diverse types of hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) populations, but direct comparisons of QTLs in different studies and populations are still challenging due to the lack of physical positions for most QTLs. Here, we used the International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium (IWGSC) RefSeq v2.0 physical map of all markers to map QTLs associated with leaf spot (Ls), leaf rust (Lr), stripe rust (Yr), and common bunt (Cbt) resistance in two recombinant inbred line populations. QTL mapping was conducted using the IWGSC physical map of 3158 and 5732 markers and disease severity data of Peace/Carberry and Attila/CDC Go populations evaluated in three to eight environments. We uncovered a total of 82 QTLs associated with Yr (36), Ls (18), Lr (15), and Cbt (13) resistance in the individual and overall means of all combined environments. Among them, 29 were associated with all combined environments, which accounted for 0.5%–20.9% individually and 12.4%–41.2% of the total disease severity per trait. Three (QLr.dms‐2D.2, QLs.dms‐5B, and QYr.dms‐5B.2) of the 29 QTLs were common in both populations. Fourteen out of the 29 QTLs were stable as they were identified both in the overall means and most of the individual environments. Ten chromosome arms harbored a cluster of QTLs associated with resistance to two to four diseases. This methodology would serve as one of the resources to compare QTLs identified in different populations and studies based on the improved physical information of all markers instead of population‐specific and consensus linkage maps.
Development of New Plastic‐Crystal Based Electrolytes using Pyrrolidinium‐ Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide Dicationic Salts
Authors: Abeysooriya Shanika , Lee Minjae , Hwan Kim Seung , O'Dell Luke A. , Pringle Jennifer M.
Published: March 2023

Dicationic organic salts are an interesting class of solid‐state electrolyte materials due to their unique structure. Here we present, for the first time, the synthesis and characterization of three dicationic‐FSI salts, 1,2‐bis(N‐methylpyrrolidinium)ethane bi(bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide) ([C2‐Pyrr1][FSI]2), 1,2‐bis(N‐ethylpyrrolidinium)ethane bi(bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide) ([C2‐Pyrr2][FSI]2) and 1,2‐bis(N‐n‐propylpyrrolidinium)ethane bi(bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide) ([C2‐Pyrr3][FSI]2). The structure and dynamics of the organic salts were probed using variable temperature solid‐state NMR and were compared with the thermal and transport properties. The investigation revealed that [C2‐Pyrr1][FSI]2, with shorter alkyl‐side chains on the dication, displayed increased transport properties compared to [C2‐Pyrr2][FSI]2 and [C2‐Pyrr3][FSI]2. To determine the proficiency of these dicationic‐FSI salts as electrolyte materials for battery applications, 10 mol% and 50 mol% lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) was mixed with [C2‐Pyrr1][FSI]2 and [C2‐Pyrr2][FSI]2. Increased transport properties were observed for [C2‐Pyrr1][FSI]2/10 mol % LiFSI in comparison to [C2‐Pyrr2][FSI]2/10 % LiFSI, while pulse field gradient NMR analysis revealed the highest Li+ self‐diffusion ratio for [C2‐Pyrr1][FSI]2/50 % LiFSI out of the four Li‐salt‐containing mixtures.
Biomass‐Derived Carbon Electrodes for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Liqiong , Zhang Yujie , Jiao Shenghui , Zhang Junliu , Zhao Xin , Chen Honglei , Jiang Jianchun
Published: March 2023

Supercapacitors with the performance advantages of high‐power density are emerging materials for energy storage/conversion systems that can combat climate change caused by CO2 emissions and are of importance with the development of electronic products and artificial intelligence. But rationally preparing high‐performance electrode with high mass‐loading quantity remains challenge. Herein, we have opted for chitosan as well‐structured binding agent to combine with active carbon (SSP‐900), a 3D hierarchical micro‐meso‐macro porous biochar previously obtained, to synthesize high mass‐loading freestanding electrode. Especially, the freestanding material (C1000G0.2), owning 0.2 g SSP‐900 and suffering carbonization at 1000 °C exhibits high specific surface area of 389.3 cm2 g−1, and self‐doped N, O (2.75 %, 5.64 %). That awards C1000G0.2 outstanding electrochemical properties, including high specific mass capacitance of 199.2 F g−1, splendid specific area capacitance of 4.37 F cm−2 in 21.93 g cm−2, which is more competitive than conventional freestanding materials. Symmetrical supercapacitor with mass loading of 12 mg is assembled and exhibits large specific capacitance of 65 F g−1, high energy density of 32.5 Wh kg−1 under the power density of 90.4 W kg−1, and capacitance stability of 98 % after 10,000 cycles. The distinguished electrochemical performance of freestanding electrodes supplies prospective application for storing/converting electrical energy from intermittent solar and wind.
Proline/serine‐rich coiled‐coil protein 1 inhibits macrophage inflammation and delays atherosclerotic progression by binding to Annexin A2
Authors: Pan Hangyu , Guo Zhongzhou , Lv Ping , Hu Kexin , Wu Tongwei , Lin Zixiang , Xue Yazhi , Zhang Yanan , Guo Zhigang
Published: March 2023

Background

Atherosclerosis (AS), the main pathological basis of life‐threatening cardiovascular disease, is essentially caused by chronic macrophage inflammation. Overexpression of proline/serine‐rich coiled‐coil protein 1 (PSRC1) reduces macrophage inflammatory responses and delays AS development. However, the exact mechanism of PSRC1 is unclear.

Methods

Proteins interacting with PSRC1 were screened by proteomics in RAW264.7 cells, followed by RT‒qPCR, immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence to explore the specific mechanistic pathways affecting inflammation. CRISPR‒Cas9 constructs for PSRC1−/−ApoE−/−(DKO) mice and high‐fat diet‐fed ApoE−/− and DKO mice were used for AS models for in vivo experiments. Upstream transcription factors of PSRC1 were predicted by ATAC‐seq, ChIP‐seq and UCSC, and the regulatory mechanism was verified by ChIP‒qPCR and dual luciferase assays. Peripheral blood serum and monocytes were collected from coronary artery disease (CAD) patients and non‐CAD patients.

Results

Increased binding of ANXA2 to PSRC1 in macrophages under oxidized low‐density lipoprotein stimulation and decreased release of ANXA2 to the extracellular compartment were observed. Knockdown of ANXA2 in AS model mice delayed AS progression. Knockdown of ANXA2 in DKO mice reversed the AS‐promoting effect of PSRC1 knockdown. Mechanistically, ANXA2 promotes STAT3 phosphorylation, which in turn promotes inflammatory responses. In addition, SP1 is a PSRC1 upstream repressive transcription factor, and the SP1 inhibitor mithramycin (Mith) elevated PSRC1 expression and exerted anti‐AS effects in AS model mice. Patients with CAD had considerably greater serum levels of ANXA2 than those without CAD, and Mith reduced the secretion of ANXA2 in peripheral blood monocytes of CAD patients.

Conclusion

In macrophages, PSRC1 can interact with ANXA2 to inhibit its extracellular release and delay AS development. SP1 is an upstream transcription factor of PSRC1 and inhibits the transcription of PSRC1. The SP1 inhibitor Mith can elevate PSRC1 levels and slow AS progression while reducing ANXA2 release from monocytes in CAD patients. Mith is expected to be a new agent for AS treatment.
An efficient hybrid strategy for uplink channel estimation in massive MIMO systems based on spatially correlated channels
Authors: Amadid Jamal , Zeroual Abdelouhab
Published: March 2023

The channel estimation (CE) process is an important phase that has a considerable influence on the performance of massive multiple‐input multiple‐output systems, in particular, in a more realistic scenario where the channels are spatially correlated (ScD). Thereby, in this work, the uplink (UL) CE process and channel hardening (CH) feature is addressed for ScD Rayleigh fading channels using the statistical Bayesian minimum mean square error estimator. The spatial correlation (SC) of the channels is described using different models, namely, the Gaussian local scattering (GLS) model, the uniform local scattering model, and the proposed hybrid model. Each model (i.e., GLS model and the uniform local scattering model) is studied using two arrangements, that is, for a uniform linear array (ULA) and uniform planar array (UPA). Moreover, the CH feature is investigated under SC of the channels using different models. Furthermore, this study proposes an efficient hybrid strategy based on SC of the channels for UL CE; that is, this work proposes a hybrid covariance matrix (CM) for UPA arrangement by relying on the Kronecker product of the CMs generated through two ULA arrangements, where the first CM is generated through horizontal ULA using GLS model, whereas the second CM is generated through vertical ULA using uniform local scattering model (i.e., one‐ring model). Numerical results regarding CE and CH are provided to assert the theoretical expressions, where the CE is evaluated using the normalized mean square error, whereas the CH is assessed using the variance of CH.
Insufficient/inadequate category in breast cytology: Are the standardized guidelines of rapid on‐site evaluation available to reduce its rate?
Authors: Bharti Jyotsna Naresh , Nigam Jitendra Singh , Rath Ashutosh , Pradeep Immanuel
Published: March 2023

In 2017, the International Academy of Cytology announced a five‐tier reporting system for breast fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) cytopathology. We observed the insufficient/inadequate cases rate varied from 2.05% to 39.89%, with a risk of malignancy varying from 0% to 60.87%. This wide range of variation poses a significant number of patients at risk due to delay in management. Some authors describe rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) as a tool to reduce its rate. In this preliminary review, we also observed that there were no uniform guidelines available for ROSE to reduce the insufficient/inadequate category rate. We expect that cytopathologists will construct some uniform guidelines for ROSE in the future, which may help to reduce the rate of category 1.
The cytological features of effusions with mesothelioma in situ: A report of 9 cases
Authors: Michael Claire W. , Bedrossian Carlos C. W. M. , Sadri Navid , Klebe Sonja
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The diagnosis of mesothelioma in situ (MIS) is now accepted by the WHO as a pre‐invasive neoplastic mesothelial proliferation and considered a diagnosis based on histologic evaluation only. Although the definition of MIS includes recurrent effusions, little is known about the cytologic features of such effusions. Since mesothelioma is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage and has a poor prognosis, early detection of a neoplastic mesothelial population in such effusions can potentially have a positive impact on the management of such a dire disease.

Materials and Methods

We reviewed a total of 18 pleural effusions from nine patients with recurrent effusions. Of these, five patients had follow‐up biopsies diagnosed as MIS and the remaining four cases had negative radiology and malignant cytology proven by molecular markers (BAP1, MTAP or CDKN2A deletion) and at least 1 year follow‐up with no overt mass identified by radiology.

Results

Initial effusions may mimic reactive mesothelial hyperplasia or exhibit atypia. As effusions recur, the cellularity and atypia increase and the mesothelial proliferation becomes morphologically indistinguishable from mesothelioma. Molecular alterations diagnostic of mesothelioma can be detected in these effusions, even in the initial‐benign/reactive appearing ones. The cellularity and atypia detected in such effusions surpassed those noted on the biopsies, raising questions regarding the cause of such discrepancy.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of MIS can be suspected based on malignant effusion cytology supported by molecular alterations. We propose that the proliferation of neoplastic mesothelial clones represent a clinically silent “liquid phase MIS stage” corresponding to in situ stage in other organs.
Do you get what you see? The illicit doping market in Denmark—An analysis of performance and image enhancing drugs seized by the police over a 1‐year period
Authors: Heinsvig Pia Johansson , Christiansen Ask Vest , Ayoubi Daniel , Heisel Laura Smedegaard , Lindholst Christian
Published: March 2023

This study examines doping products seized by the police in three regional police districts in Denmark from December 2019 to December 2020. The products, often referred to as performance and image‐enhancing drugs (PIEDs), are described in relation to the country of origin, manufacturing company, and the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) stated on the packaging versus the one identified by subsequent chemical analysis. The study also includes a description of the degree of professionalism by which the products appear according to EU requirements. A total of 764 products were seized during the study period. The products originate from 37 countries, mainly located in Asia (37%), Europe (23%), and North America (13%). One hundred ninety‐three different manufacturing companies could be identified from the product packaging. The most frequent compound class was the androgenic anabolic steroids, found in 60% of the products. In 25%–34% of the products, either no or an incorrect API relative to the one stated on the product was found. However, only 7%–10% contain either no API or a compound from a different compound class than the one stated. Most products had a professional appearance fulfilling most EU requirements for packaging information. The study shows that many different companies supply PIEDs to the Danish market and that counterfeit and substandard products are widespread. Many products do, however, appear professional to the user giving an impression of a high‐quality product. Although many products are substandard, they most often contain an API from the same compound class as the one labeled.
The UFM1 conjugation system in mammalian development
Authors: Yang Shuchun , Moy Nathan , Yang Rui
Published: March 2023

Posttranslational modifications by ubiquitin and ubiquitin‐like proteins are important in regulating cellular protein functions. UFM1 (ubiquitin‐fold modifier 1), first identified almost two decades ago, is a member of the ubiquitin‐like protein family. UFM1 is covalently conjugated to the target proteins in an enzymatic cascade consisting of E1 (activating), E2 (conjugating), and E3 (ligating) enzymes. At the molecular level, modification by UFM1 (UFMylation) is an important mediator of the protein function. Dysregulation of the UFM1 system, e.g., the knockout of UFMylation components, disturbs proteome homeostasis and triggers endoplasmic reticulum stress. Such changes are linked to developmental disorders, tumorigenesis, tissue injury, inflammation, and several hereditary neurological syndromes. This review will focus on the role of the UFMylation in animal development and associated congenital disorders. We will cover the hematopoietic system, liver, central nervous system, intestine, heart, kidney, immune, and skeletal system to provide insight into disease pathogenesis and shed light on possible novel therapeutic methods.
Feasibility and acceptability of a hospital‐at‐home program for adolescents with eating disorders: Making progress in community/family‐based treatments
Authors: Morón‐Nozaleda Maria Goretti , Yáñez Silvia , Camarneiro Ricardo Antonio , Gutiérrez‐Priego Silvia , Muñoz‐Domenjó Andrea , García‐López Cristina , Adrados García Sandra , Jiménez García Raquel , Trujillo Eva Maria , Faya Mar , Graell Montserrat
Published: March 2023

Objective

To explore the feasibility and acceptability of a novel hospital‐at‐home (HaH) program for adolescent patients with a severe eating disorder (ED).

Method

Retrospective description of the program during its first year of activity. The feasibility construct is based on accessibility, recruitment, rate of retention, avoidance of hospital stays, and management of crisis situations. Caregivers completed a satisfaction questionnaire on discharge, including an item on perceived safety. All patients referred to the program were included.

Results

Fifty‐nine female patients with a mean age of 14.69 years (SD = 1.67) were admitted. The mean stay was 39.14 days (SD = 14.47). On admission, 32.2% of patients presented nonsuicidal self‐harm behavior and 47.5% had comorbid mental disorders. All patients were screened in the first 48 h after referral, and the program retention rate was 91.52%. As for use of health services, 2016.03 hospital stays were avoided, and only 16.12% of the 31 calls received for urgent care required emergency department visits. Families gave the program an overall satisfaction score of 4.95/5, and all described it as “very safe.”

Discussion

The HaH program described is a feasible and acceptable care model in adolescents with severe EDs and comorbidities. Effectiveness studies should be performed.

Public Significance

Eating disorders are a major concern for public health. The adolescent HaH program presented marks an advance in intensive community treatments for patients with severe EDs and comorbidities.
Toward a more comprehensive understanding and support of parents with a child experiencing an eating disorder
Authors: Wilksch Simon M.
Published: March 2023

Objective

The majority of eating disorder (ED) carer research has been conducted with parents of adult patients, using qualitative methodologies, focusing on carer burden and distress during treatment. This article aimed to use results from a large, national, quantitative survey of parents of child or adolescent patients as a springboard for encouraging a more comprehensive investigation of parent experiences.

Methods

The online survey assessed treatment experiences and parent distress (DASS‐21) but also less commonly investigated topics including symptom detection, experiences with primary care providers, and impacts on parent physical and psychological health, romantic relationship, finances, and employment.

Results

Key findings included parents (N = 439; 91.6% female): were the first person to notice the ED symptoms in 81.8% of cases; had only a 14.7% chance of a helpful experience with both the first general practitioner and first therapist they saw; needed to see M = 3.55 therapists before finding one that could help; reported worse than normal psychological health (96.0%), physical health (70.5%), and romantic relationship (92.7%); required M = 70.06 days leave from work to care for their child (per household); and 91.8% accessed treatment in the private sector with median out‐of‐pocket expenses of AUD 10,0001–AUD 20,000.

Discussion

Recommendations to address research and practice gaps include: increased focus on supporting initial symptom detection; improving primary care and treatment experiences; and, increasing the number of ED treatment providers. Urgently needed are solutions to the overwhelming demand for services and clearly, more support for parents. Such strategies are vital for reducing the overall burden of EDs.

Public Significance

Most eating disorder (ED) caregiver research has focused on experiences of supporting adult patients during treatment. This article used a large national survey to explore parent experiences of their child or adolescent's ED in less commonly investigated areas, such as detection, primary care, impact on parent physical and psychological health, romantic relationship, employment and finances. Findings suggested mixed experiences with health care providers and a very significant toll of the illness on the domains measured. Recommendations were provided for how these important areas can be addressed.
Polymer‐Lipid Matrices based on Carboxymethyl Cellulose/Solagum and Liposomes for Controlled Release of Folic Acid
Authors: Batinić Petar M. , Đorđević Verica B. , Obradović Nataša S. , Krstić Aleksandar D. , Stevanović Sanja I. , Balanč Bojana D. , Marković Smilja B. , Pjanović Rada V. , Mijin Dušan Ž. , Bugarski Branko M.
Published: March 2023

Liposome‐encapsulated folic acid is incorporated into the films made from sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) (2 mas%) and a mixture of CMC and solagum (9:1 w/w) using the film‐forming cast solution method. Histidine is used to increase solubility for folic acid in liposomes (1–5 mg mL−1), and propylene glycol is used as a film plasticizer (2.6 mas%). The obtained films (50–60 µm tick) containing 3.12–20.19 mg of folic acid per gram of film are envisaged to be used as patches for transdermal delivery of folic acid. Therefore, some physical, mechanical, release and structural attributes of the films are scrutinized. Folic acid gives yellow color to the films and contributes to stronger chemical bonds which result in improved strength of the film. Liposomes prolong the release of folic acid from films to 24 h without adverse effects on mechanical properties of the films, but degrade homogeneity of the films, which can be ascribed to its agglomeration within the film matrix as revealed by atomic force microscopy. According to the release at pH 5.5, the film formulation based on a blend of CMC and solagum containing 3 mg mL−1 liposome‐encapsulated folic acid is recommended.

Practical Application: Folic acid is effective in reducing oxidative stress levels in the skin and neutralizing the harmful free radicals and is also essential for various metabolic reactions in the body. However, the limited solubility of folic acid linked with its poor absorption in an organism, low storage stability, short half‐life upon oral consumption, specific food preferences of some people, extensive liver metabolism, and pregnancy‐induced vomiting point to a large potential in transdermal usage of folic acid. This has motivated us to design new multicomponent polymer‐lipid systems as an alternative solution to overcome some of these drawbacks. The results obtained for these multicomponent films pointed to their potential for prolonged release of folic acid to 24 h, which can also be useful for scientists interested in encapsulating similar poorly soluble compounds in CMC patches. The finding can be also valuable information for pharmaceutical manufacturers and scientists worldwide.
Yoga and massage are associated with small experimental placebo effects in chronic orofacial pain
Authors: Yin Margaret , Muhammed Salim A. , Wang Yang , Colloca Luana
Published: March 2023

Background

Complementary and Integrative Health Approaches (CIHA), including but not limited to, natural products and Mind and Body Practices (MBPs), are promising non‐pharmacological adjuvants to the arsenal of pain management therapeutics. We aim to establish possible relationships between use of CIHA and the capacity of descending pain modulatory system in the form of occurrence and magnitude of placebo effects in a laboratory setting.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study investigated the relationship between self‐reported use of CIHA, pain disability, and experimentally induced placebo hypoalgesia in chronic pain participants suffering from Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD). In the 361 enrolled TMD participants, placebo hypoalgesia was measured using a well‐established paradigm with verbal suggestions and conditioning cues paired with distinct heat painful stimulations. Pain disability was measured with the Graded Chronic Pain Scale, and use of CIHA were recorded with a checklist as part of the medical history.

Results

Use of physically oriented MBPs (e.g., yoga and massage) was associated with reduced placebo effects (F1,2110.44 = 23.15, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.171). Further, linear regressions indicated that greater number of physically oriented MBPs predicted smaller placebo effects (β = −0.17, p = 0.002), and less likelihood of being a placebo responder (OR = 0.70, p = 0.004). Use of psychologically oriented MBPs and natural product were not associated with placebo effects magnitude and responsiveness.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that use of physically oriented CIHA was associated with experimental placebo effects possibly through an optimized capability to recognize distinct somatosensorial stimulations. Future research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying placebo‐induced pain modulation in CIHA users.

Significance

Chronic pain participants who use physically oriented mind–body practices, such as yoga and massage, demonstrated attenuated experimentally induced placebo hypoalgesia in comparison with those who do not use them. This finding disentangled the relationship between use of complementary and integrative approaches and placebo effects, providing the potential therapeutic perspective of endogenous pain modulation in chronic pain management.
Efficacy of open‐label counterconditioning for reducing nocebo effects on pressure pain
Authors: Meijer Simone , Karacaoglu Merve , van Middendorp Henriët , Veldhuijzen Dieuwke S. , Jensen Karin B. , Peerdeman Kaya J. , Evers Andrea W. M.
Published: March 2023

Background

Nocebo effects can adversely affect the experience of physical symptoms, such as pain and itch. Nocebo effects on itch and pain have shown to be induced by conditioning with thermal heat stimuli and reduced by counterconditioning. However, open‐label counterconditioning, in which participants are informed about the placebo content of the treatment, has not been investigated, while this can be highly relevant for clinical practice. Furthermore, (open‐label) conditioning and counterconditioning has not been investigated for pain modalities relevant to musculoskeletal disorders, such as pressure pain.

Methods

In a randomized controlled trial, we investigated in 110 healthy female participants whether nocebo effects on pressure pain combined with open‐label verbal suggestions can be (1) induced via conditioning and (2) reduced via counterconditioning. Participants were allocated to either a nocebo‐ or sham‐conditioning group. Next, the nocebo group was allocated to either counterconditioning, extinction or continued nocebo conditioning; sham conditioning was followed by placebo conditioning.

Results

Nocebo effects were significantly larger after nocebo conditioning than sham conditioning (d = 1.27). Subsequently, a larger reduction of the nocebo effect was found after counterconditioning than after extinction (d = 1.02) and continued nocebo conditioning (d = 1.66), with effects similar to placebo conditioning (following sham conditioning).

Conclusions

These results show that (counter)conditioning combined with open‐label suggestions can modulate nocebo effects on pressure pain, which provides promise in designing learning‐based treatments to reduce nocebo effects in patients with chronic pain disorders, particularly for musculoskeletal disorders.

Significance

Few studies have investigated the efficacy counterconditioning to reduce nocebo effects. Whereas typically deceptive procedures are used, these are not ethically appropriate for use in clinical practice. The current study demonstrates that open‐label counterconditioning in a pain modality relevant for many chronic pain conditions may be a promising new strategy for reducing nocebo effects in a non‐deceptive and ethical manner, which provides promise in designing learning‐based treatments to reduce nocebo effects in patients with chronic pain disorders.