bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body composition affects blood lipids and vascular function in metabolically unhealthy or metabolically healthy older adult women with obesity: A multi‐group path analysis/impact verification following latent profile analysis
Authors: Haixia Li , Lee Jae‐Hoon , Oh SiYeon , Seo EunChul , Ha Min‐Seong
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to perform latent profile analysis (LPA) in older adult women with metabolic syndrome to extract a group according to their characteristics while controlling for body composition, blood lipid levels, and vascular function. The study also examined the relationship between different variables.

Methods

The participants were 35 women aged ≥65 years, who met the Korean female standards for metabolic syndrome. Blood collection, blood pressure measurements, and vascular function measurements were performed. LPA and multigroup path analysis (MGPA) were performed to statistically analyze the effects of body composition on blood lipid levels and vascular function in older adult women with metabolic syndrome. Mplus 8.3 and jamovi 2.0.0 were used for the analyses, and the control significance level was set at .05.

Results

The participants were divided into the following three groups: (G1) metabolically unhealthy participants with normal weight, (G2) normal‐weight participants with arteriosclerosis, and (G3) obese but metabolically healthy participants (G3). The effect of body composition on blood lipid levels showed a significant difference only in G1. The effect of body composition on vascular function was influenced by various variables in G1 and G3, while G1 showed a higher explanatory power.

Conclusions

The MGPA results showed that the relationship between variables differs depending on the group. Therefore, the metabolic syndrome should be studied by subdividing it and confirming the characteristics of the classified groups, such as normal‐weight but metabolically unhealthy individuals and obese but metabolically healthy individuals.
Site‐Specific m6A Erasing via Conditionally Stabilized CRISPR‐Cas13b Editor
Authors: Xu Ying , Wang Yufan , Liang Fu‐Sen
Published: July 2023

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) on RNAs plays an important role in regulating various biological processes and CRIPSR technology has been employed for programmable m6A editing. However, the bulky size of CRISPR protein and constitutively expressed CRISPR/RNA editing enzymes can interfere with the native function of target RNAs and cells. Herein, we reported a conditional m6A editing platform (FKBP*‐dCas13b‐ALK) based on a ligand stabilized dCas13 editor. The inducible expression of this m6A editing system was achieved by adding or removing the Shield‐1 molecule. We further demonstrated that the targeted recruitment of dCas13b‐m6A eraser fusion protein and site‐specific m6A erasing were achieved under the control of Shield‐1. Moreover, the release and degradation of dCas13b fusion protein occurred faster than the restoration of m6A on the target RNAs after Shield‐1 removal, which provides an ideal opportunity to study the m6A function with minimal steric interference from bulky dCas13b fusion protein.
The influence of structural topology of additively manufactured PEGDA monolith on adsorption performance for textile wastewater treatment
Authors: Yusoff Nurul Husna Mohd , Chong Chien Hwa , Wong Voon Loong , Cheah Kean How , Wan Yoke Kin
Published: July 2023

With the rapid advancement of three dimensional (3D) printing technology that offers flexibility to achieve desired surface area and permeability for wastewater applications, structural topology design has the potential to significantly improve the adsorption performance. This present work involves fabricating the green water technology with four different complex monolithic structural designs (Kagome, gyroid, Fischer, and body‐centered cubic [BCC]) with specific surface areas varied from 19.4 to 39.84 mm2 via digital light processing (DLP) technique. All the monolithic structures with different structural topologies were grafted with chitosan to evaluate their adsorption performance in a batch process. The influence of different structural topology on the adsorption performance and efficiency was evaluated at an optimal temperature of 60°C with optimum pH of 6.3 for a reaction time of 2 h using synthetic methyl orange (MO) dye and textile wastewater. Results indicated that the body‐centered cubic (BCC) design exhibited the highest MO adsorption capacity (12.71 mg/g), with the highest permeability (2.57
10−7 m2) and surface area (39.84 mm2). Additionally, a direct relationship was found between the surface area and the permeability of the adsorbent as well as adsorption strength. Fifty percent of color and 2.46% of chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiencies were achieved to verify the adsorbent feasibility in actual application. The present work mainly establishes the feasibility of 3D printing in fabricating different monolithic structures, which enables future topology optimization for improved wastewater management.
Ellagic acid loaded nanospheres/biodegradable PVA‐sodium alginate hydrogel for wound healing application
Authors: Kabirian Kholghi Kimia , Tamri Pari , Haddadi Rasool , Pourmoslemi Shabnam
Published: July 2023

In the present study, a novel polyvinyl alcohol‐sodium alginate hydrogel was prepared using ellagic acid loaded nanospheres in its structure. Ellagic acid was loaded into polymeric nanospheres using a double‐emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Obtained nanospheres were dispersed in a polyvinyl alcohol‐sodium alginate hydrogel, prepared using freeze–thaw method followed by freeze‐drying. Ellagic acid loaded nanospheres and the final hydrogel preparation were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, and investigated for ellagic acid content, and release profile. MTT assays were conducted to measure the viability of cells after treatment with the hydrogel, and wound healing activity was investigated through in vivo studies on open wounds of an animal model. Results showed formation of nanospheres with average diameter of 241.5 nm and prolonged‐release profile of ellagic acid during 48 h. MTT assays showed a significant increase in cell proliferation upon treatment of NIH3T3 cells with the hydrogel. The hydrogel also significantly increased the rate of wound closure through improved epithelialization and production of collagen fibers. It can be concluded that the hydrogel containing ellagic acid‐loaded nanospheres prepared in this study can be designated as a biocompatible dressing to accelerate the wound healing process.
Bacterial cellulose‐modified castor oil‐based polyurethane sponge for hexavalent chromium removal
Authors: Maia Lana S. , Pinhati Fernanda R. , Monteceli Francisco M. , Colturato Vitória M. M. , Barbosa Rennan F. S. , Barud Hernane S. , da Conceição Monique T. , Rosa Derval S. , Mulinari Daniella R.
Published: July 2023

Due to the multiple industrial applications of chromium compounds and their dangerous nature for the environment, the development of adsorbent materials has been investigated. In line with this reality, bacterial cellulose (BC) has become a potential filler in the polymeric matrix due to its ability to remove toxic metals; however, its performance is little explored. This research proposes a new approach for BC as a filler in castor oil‐based polyurethane, obtaining a sponge for Cr(VI) removal. The pure PU and PU + X%BC sponges (X stands for BC content between 5 and 20 wt%) were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, density, contact angle (CA), and thermogravimetric analysis. Sorption capacity and efficiency were evaluated as a function of the fiber content, with tests performed in function of contact time (2.5 min to 3 h) at 50 mg L−1. The BC fillers of the sponges increased the density and influenced the morphological, chemical structural, thermal, and sorption properties. Thus, the sponge (PU + 20%BC) presented the highest CA (104.4°) and the best sorption capacity and efficiency (4.3 mg g−1 and 43.2%). The sorption mechanism was well‐defined by isotherm models, presenting a maximum adsorption capacity of 23.5 mg g−1 and best fit (R2 = 0.989) with the Freundlich isotherm. The sponge is an efficient material for Cr (VI) removal and provided a promising insight into an adsorption mechanism study.
Anti‐corrosion improvement of epoxy coating by the synergistic effect of barrier shielding and slow‐release based on phytic acid intercalated hydrotalcite
Authors: Ju Jun‐Jie , Wang Yang , Yu Ming‐Hua , Sun Xin , Li Wei‐Li , Zhao Zheng‐Bai
Published: July 2023

Epoxy resin has been widely applied in coating preparation, due to its excellent properties. The anti‐corrosion performance improvement of epoxy‐based coatings has attracted much attention. The synergistic effect of the barrier function of two‐dimensional fillers and the slow release of inhibiter has been proven to be an effective way to improve the anti‐corrosion of coatings. In this work, the phytic acid (PA) intercalated hydrotalcite (HT) was fabricated by a one‐pot method. First, HT was synthesized by magnesium nitrate hexahydrate (Mg(NO3)2·6H2O) and aluminum nitrate nonahydrate (Al(NO3)3·9H2O) in the water solution. Subsequently, PA was added to the dispersion to obtain PA intercalated HT fillers (PA‐HT). The obtained PA‐HT fillers were incorporated into the epoxy resin (EP) to prepare the anti‐corrosion coating (PA‐HT/EP). The prepared PA‐HT/EP coating exhibits excellent anti‐corrosion properties at 1 wt% filler loading that the impedance modulus maintains above 109 Ω cm2 after 30 days of soaking in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. Moreover, the anti‐corrosion mechanism of the synergy of the physical barrier of two‐dimensional fillers and the release slow of inhibitors was thoroughly discussed, particularly the formation and anti‐corrosion mechanism of the passivation protection film constituted by PA.
Examining the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the MiND‐B questionnaire in ALS patients
Authors: Rahimzadeh Goradel Reza , Sattarpour Reza , hooshyari zahra , Taebi Morvarid , Ghavampour Afsaneh , Jazani Maryam Rashidi , Sarraf Payam
Published: July 2023

Background

In addition to affecting the nerves and muscles, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease also affects the behavior and cognition of patients. In this study, we examine the validity and reliability of the Persian version of Motor Neuron Disease Behavioral instrument (MiND‐B) questionnaire to investigate behavioral changes in Persian‐speaking ALS patients.

Methods

Forty‐six Persian‐speaking patients with ALS filled out the MiND‐B questionnaire. Then, the overall scores and each of the domains of this questionnaire were statistically analyzed.

Results

Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated .70 for the whole questionnaire. To check the validity of the questionnaire, the correlation of its scores with the Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioral ALS screen (ECAS‐A) questionnaire was taken, and this correlation was significant (p = .038).

Conclusion

The findings of this study show that the Persian version of the MiND‐B questionnaire has the necessary validity and reliability to investigate behavioral changes in Persian‐speaking patients with ALS.
Safety and tolerability of first‐line durvalumab with tremelimumab and chemotherapy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lee Dae Ho , Kim Hye Ryun , Keam Bhumsuk , Kato Ken , Kuboki Yasutoshi , Gao Haiyan , Yovine Alejandro , Robbins Scott H. , Ahn Myung‐Ju
Published: July 2023

Background

Advanced or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is associated with poor prognosis; new first‐line systemic treatment options are needed. Combining immuno‐oncology therapies with standard chemotherapy may represent a promising approach for the treatment of solid tumors. Results from a Phase Ib study evaluating durvalumab with tremelimumab and chemotherapy in patients with advanced or metastatic ESCC are reported.

Methods

Adults with advanced or metastatic ESCC who were candidates for first‐line platinum‐based chemotherapy received durvalumab 1500 mg (Day 1), tremelimumab 75 mg (Day 1), cisplatin 80 mg/m2 (Day 1) and 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) 800 mg/m2 (Days 1–5) in 28‐day cycles until disease progression or discontinuation due to toxicity. The study consisted of safety run‐in (Part A) and expansion (Part B) periods. The primary endpoint was safety. Antitumor activity was an exploratory endpoint.

Results

Sixteen patients were enrolled, 6 in Part A and 10 in Part B, and received a median of 4.0 treatment cycles. All patients were Asian; median age was 65.0 years. All patients experienced adverse events (AEs) related to cisplatin and 5‐FU, and 8 (50.0%) patients experienced AEs related to durvalumab and tremelimumab. Grade ≥3 treatment‐related AEs occurred in 7 (43.8%) patients. There were no deaths associated with AEs. Six (37.5%) patients achieved an objective response. Median progression‐free survival was 3.75 months, and median overall survival was 9.69 months.

Conclusions

Durvalumab with tremelimumab and chemotherapy demonstrated manageable safety and antitumor activity in patients with advanced or metastatic ESCC, warranting further investigation in randomized trials. Registered with ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02658214.
Site‐Specific and Multiple Fluorogenic Metabolic Glycan Labeling and Glycoproteomic Profiling in Live Cells
Authors: Leong Shwee Khuan , Chen Yi‐Ju , Hsiao Jye‐Chian , Tsai Chun‐Yi , Shie Jiun‐Jie
Published: July 2023

Multicolor labeling for monitoring the intracellular localization of the same target type in the native environment using chemical fluorescent dyes is a challenging task. This approach requires both bioorthogonal and biocompatible ligations with an excellent fluorescence signal‐to‐noise ratio. Here, we present a metabolic glycan labeling technique that uses homemade fluorogenic dyes to investigate glycosylation patterns in live cells. These dyes allowed us to demonstrate rapid and efficient simultaneous multilabeling of glycoconjugates with minimum fluorescence noise. Our results demonstrate that this approach is capable of not only probing sialylation and GlcNAcylation in cells but also specifically labeling the cell‐surface and intracellular sialylated glycoconjugates in live cells. In particular, we performed site‐specific dual‐channel fluorescence imaging of extra and intracellular sialylated glycans in HeLa and PC9 cancer cells as well as identified fluorescently labeled sialylated glycoproteins and glycans by a direct enrichment approach combined with an MS‐based proteomic analysis in the same experiment. In conclusion, this study provides multilabeling tools in cellular systems for simultaneous site‐specific glycan imaging and glycoproteomic analysis to study potential cancer‐ and disease‐associated glycoconjugates.
Near missed diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma in a young immunocompetent woman with a recurrent left‐arm mass: A case report
Authors: Salemi Fateme , Mortazavizadeh Seyed Mohammad Reza , Zahir Shokouh Taghipour , Shahrokh Soroush
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive neuroendocrine cancer that primarily affects the elderly, Caucasians, and the immunocompromised. We present a rare case of an immunocompetent young Iranian (non‐Caucasian) female with a small nodule on her left arm. The lesion was initially misdiagnosed as an infected cyst and was treated with antibiotics for 20 days before being surgically removed. Unfortunately, the lump regrew rapidly 2 weeks later, when she had a biopsy, which revealed stage III MCC. She was then treated with adjuvant chemoradiotherapy after a thorough surgical resection of the tumor. Despite the fact that she was in remission after completing chemotherapy courses, she developed neutropenic fever, sepsis and died from septic shock. This case emphasizes the necessity of early clinical diagnosis of MCC and obtaining a biopsy with histopathologic evaluation of rapidly evolving skin lesions suggestive of malignancy.
Intrinsic defects generated by iodine during TiO2 crystallization and its relationship with electrical conductivity and photoactivity
Authors: Bernardes Andre A. , da Silva Andre L. , Ramos Bruno , Fonseca Fabio C. , Gouvêa Douglas
Published: July 2023

Defect formation during synthesis is one of the strategies used to improve the photoactivity of polycrystalline semiconductors such as titanium dioxide (TiO2). Defects can modify the electronic structure of TiO2 and change the surface of the interaction between the photocatalyst and the reactants. In this study, TiO2 relationship between processing in the presence of iodine and the consequent formation of intrinsic defects were explored. TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized using the polymeric precursor method and exposed to iodine ions at concentrations up to 5 mol%. After calcination at 350°C, detailed chemical analyses revealed that iodine was absent in the samples. However, the TiO2 properties, such as specific surface area, crystallite sizes, and specific grain boundary area, were affected. Further experiments, such as electron paramagnetic resonance, diffuse reflectance, optical measurements, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicated the presence of defects in the iodine‐processed samples. These defects directly influenced the electrical properties of the material, which affected the photoactivity, measured by the degradation of acetaminophen.
Synchronous Proton‐Hydride Transfer by a Pyrazole‐Functionalized Protic Mn(I) Complex in Catalytic Alcohol Dehydrogenative Coupling
Authors: De Subhabrata , Ranjan Prabodh , Chaurasia Vishal , Pal Sourav , Pal Saikat , Pandey Pragati , Bera Jitendra K.
Published: July 2023

A series of Mn(I) complexes Mn(L1)(CO)3Br, Mn(L2)(CO)3Br, Mn(L1)(CO)3(OAc) and Mn(L3)(CO)3Br [L1=2‐(5‐tert‐butyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)‐1,8‐naphthyridine,L2=2‐(5‐tert‐butyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)pyridine,L3=2‐(5‐tert‐butyl‐1‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)‐1,8‐naphthyridine] were synthesized and fully characterized. The acid‐base equilibrium between the pyrazole and the pyrazolato forms of Mn(L1)(CO)3Br was studied by1H NMR and UV‐vis spectra. These complexes are screened as catalysts for acceptorless dehydrogenative coupling (ADC) of primary alcohols and aromatic diamines for the synthesis of benzimidazole and quinoline derivatives with the release of H2and H2O as byproducts. The protic complex Mn(L1)(CO)3Br shows the highest catalytic activity for the synthesis of 2‐substituted benzimidazole derivatives with broad substrate scope, whereas a related complex [Mn(L3)(CO)3Br], which is devoid of the proton responsiveβ‐NH unit, shows significantly reduced catalytic efficiency validating the crucial role of theβ‐NH functionality for the alcohol dehydrogenation reactions. Control experiments, kinetic and deuterated studies, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal a synchronous hydride‐proton transfer by the metal‐ligand construct in the alcohol dehydrogenation step.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Synthesis of Enantioenriched Tertiary and Quaternary α‐Chiral Allylsilanes
Authors: Pérez Sevillano Rubén , Ferreira Franck , Jackowski Olivier
Published: July 2023

Access to enantioenriched tertiary and quaternary α‐chiral allysilanes without any transition‐metal catalyst is reported. This was achieved by enantioselective allylic displacement of γ‐silylated allylic bromides through Lewis base activation of Grignard reagents by a bidentate chiral NHC ligand. The process afforded both high γ‐regio‐ and enantioselectivity and is compatible with a wide range of silyl groups on the substrates.
In situ Injectable Tetra‐PEG Hydrogel Bioadhesive for Sutureless Repair of Gastrointestinal Perforation†
Authors: Li Shurong , Xian Yiwen , He Gang , Chen Luyuan , Chen Zhihui , Hong Yonglong , Zhang Chong , Wu Decheng
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Hydrogel bioadhesives represent promising and efficient alternatives to sutures or staples for gastrointestinal (GI) perforation management. However, several concerns remain for the existing bioadhesives including slow and/or weak adhesive, poor mechanical strength, low biocompatibility, and poor biodegradability, which largely limit their clinical application in GI perforation repair. In this work, we introduce an in situ injectable Tetra‐PEG hydrogel bioadhesive (SS) composed of tetra‐armed poly(ethylene glycol) amine (Tetra‐PEG‐NH2) and tetra‐armed poly(ethylene glycol) succinimidyl succinate (Tetra‐PEG‐SS) for the sutureless repair of GI defects. The SS hydrogel exhibits rapid gelation behavior and high burst pressure and is capable of providing instant robust adhesion and fluid‐tight sealing in the ex vivo porcine intestinal and gastric models. Importantly, the succinyl ester linkers in the SS hydrogel endow the bioadhesive with suitable in vivo degradability to match the new GI tissue formation. The in vivo evaluation in the rat GI injured model further demonstrates the successful sutureless sealing and repair of the intestine and stomach by the SS hydrogel with the advantages of neglectable postsurgical adhesion, suppressed inflammation, and enhanced angiogenesis. Together, our results support potential clinical applications of the SS bioadhesive for the high‐efficient repair of GI perforation.
Different electrophysiological characteristics of cavo‐tricuspid isthmus dependent atrial flutter guided by robotic magnetic navigation in patients with and without prior cardiac surgery
Authors: Luo Qingzhi , Xie Yun , Bao Yangyang , Wei Yue , Lin Changjian , Zhang Ning , Ling Tianyou , Chen Kang , Pan Wenqi , Wu Liqun , Jin Qi
Published: July 2023

Backgroud

Cavo‐ tricuspid isthmus dependent atrial flutter (CTI‐ AFL) is a common atrial arrhythmia in patients with prior cardiac surgery (postsurgical AFL) and without prior cardiac surgery (nonsurgical AFL). However, there is only limited data regarding the eletrophysiological differences between the CTI‐ AFL in the postsurgical patients and the nonsurgical patients.

Hypothesis

We aimed to investigate the differences in clinical and electrophysiological characteristics between the postsurgical group and nonsurgical group and to evaluate the acute and long‐term outcomes after ablation guided by robotic magnetic navigation (RMN) in both the groups. Methods Fourty‐two consecutive patients with nonsurgical AFL and 21 with postsurgical AFL were retrospectively analyzed in our center. Electrocardiographic (ECG) analysis and three‐dimensional electrophysiological study were performed in all the patients.

Results

The results revealed that only 55.6% of postsurgical patients with proven counterclockwise (CCW) AFL presented with a typical ECG suggesting this mechanism. In contrast, 86.1% of nonsurgical patients demonstrated a typical ECG pattern for CCW AFL. In addition, we employed a reverse “U‐curve” to facilitate radiofrequency delivery when ablating near the inferior vena cava ostium in the present study. Compared with the nonsurgical group, electroanatomical mapping showed the mean AFL cycle length was significantly longer (253.3 ± 40.4 vs. 234.1 ± 24.2 ms, p = 0.03) and the right atrium volume was larger (114.8 ± 26.0 vs. 97.5 ± 19.1 mL, p = 0.004) in the postsurgical group. Additionally, the procedural time (75.9 ± 21.3 vs. 61.6 ± 26.6 minutes, p = 0.03) and ablation time (53.0 ± 21.4 vs. 36.7 ± 25.6 minutes, p = 0.02) are much longer in the postsurgical group. However, the navigation index in the postsurgical group was significantly smaller (0.35 ± 0.08 vs. 0.43 ± 0.13, p = 0.01). Moreover, the acute and long‐term success rates were comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions

Catheter ablation of CTI‐AFL with and without prior cardiac surgery guided by RMN are associated with high acute and long‐term success rates, despite the procedural and ablation times are much longer in the postsurgical patients. However, ECG characteristics of the tachycardia may be misleading as they are more often atypical in patients after cardiac surgery.
Secular trends of health care resource utilization and costs between Brugada syndrome and congenital long QT syndrome: A territory‐wide study
Authors: Lee Sharen , Chung Cheuk To Skylar , Radford Danny , Chou Oscar Hou In , Lee Teddy Tai Loy , Ng Zita Man Wai , Roever Leonardo , Rajan Rajesh , Bazoukis George , Letsas Konstantinos P. , Zeng Shaoying , Liu Fang Zhou , Wong Wing Tak , Liu Tong , Tse Gary
Published: July 2023

Background

Health care resource utilization (HCRU) and costs are important metrics of health care burden, but they have rarely been explored in the setting of cardiac ion channelopathies.

Hypothesis

This study tested the hypothesis that attendance‐related HCRUs and costs differed between patients with Brugada syndrome (BrS) and congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of consecutive BrS and LQTS patients at public hospitals or clinics in Hong Kong, China. HCRUs and costs (in USD) for Accident and Emergency (A&E), inpatient, general outpatient and specialist outpatient attendances were analyzed between 2001 and 2019 at the cohort level. Comparisons were made using incidence rate ratios (IRRs [95% confidence intervals]).

Results

Over the 19‐year period, 516 BrS (median age of initial presentation: 51 [interquartile range: 38−61] years, 92% male) and 134 LQTS (median age of initial presentation: 21 [9−44] years, 32% male) patients were included. Compared to LQTS patients, BrS patients had lower total costs (2 008 126 [2 007 622−2 008 629] vs. 2 343 864 [2 342 828−2 344 900]; IRR: 0.857 [0.855−0.858]), higher costs for A&E attendances (83 113 [83 048−83 177] vs. 70 604 [70 487−70 721]; IRR: 1.177 [1.165−1.189]) and general outpatient services (2,176 [2,166−2,187] vs. 921 [908−935]; IRR: 2.363 [2.187−2.552]), but lower costs for inpatient stay (1 391 624 [1 391 359−1 391 889] vs. 1 713 742 [1 713 166−1 714 319]; IRR: 0.812 [0.810−0.814]) and lower costs for specialist outpatient services (531 213 [531 049−531 376] vs. 558 597 [558268−558926]; IRR: 0.951 [0.947−0.9550]).

Conclusions

Overall, BrS patients consume 14% less health care resources compared to LQTS patients in terms of attendance costs. BrS patients require more A&E and general outpatient services, but less inpatient and specialist outpatient services than LQTS patients.
Social isolation and social connectedness among young adult cancer survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Fox Rina S. , Armstrong Grace E. , Gaumond Julia S. , Vigoureux Taylor F. D. , Miller Corinne H. , Sanford Stacy D. , Salsman John M. , Katsanis Emmanuel , Badger Terry A. , Reed Damon R. , Gonzalez Brian D. , Jim Heather S. L. , Warner Echo L. , Victorson David E. , Oswald Laura B.
Published: July 2023

Background

Social isolation and connectedness are social determinants of health that have demonstrated effects on cancer‐related outcomes. These constructs have been systematically evaluated among pediatric and older adult cancer populations. In this review, the authors evaluated the prevalence, correlates, and psychosocial implications of social isolation and connectedness among young adult (YA) cancer survivors aged 18–39 years.

Methods

Peer‐reviewed articles published in English before June 2021 were identified from database searches and included articles' reference lists according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) guidelines. Included articles described studies that assessed social isolation and/or connectedness among YA cancer survivors.

Results

In total, 5094 unique records were identified; 4143 were excluded after title/abstract screening, and 907 were excluded after full‐text review. Forty‐four articles were included. Few studies used validated measures or directly assessed social isolation or connectedness. Social isolation was similarly prevalent among YAs and older cancer survivors and noncancer populations. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral risk and protective factors for social isolation were identified. Social isolation was related to worse psychological well‐being, whereas social connectedness was often, but not always, related to better psychological well‐being.

Conclusions

This growing literature underscores the relevance of social isolation and connectedness as important health determinants among YA cancer survivors. The identified risk and protective factors can identify YAs who especially may benefit from screening for social isolation. Future studies are needed that directly, reliably, and validly evaluate social isolation and connectedness to inform the development of interventions to decrease isolation and increase connectedness.
Characterization of neurotransmitter inhibition for seven cathinones by a proprietary fluorescent dye method
Authors: Persson Mattias , Vikingsson Svante , Kronstrand Robert , Green Henrik
Published: July 2023

Many new psychoactive substances (NPS) are stimulants, and information about their potency and abuse potential is often lacking. To start addressing this need, a method measuring the inhibition of the dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine transporters (DAT, SERT, and NET) by stimulant drugs was developed. The use of a proprietary fluorescent dye mixture and three cell lines (CHO‐K1, HEK 293, and MDCK), each expressing a single transporter, allowed for a semiautomated, one‐pot determination of inhibition in a 384‐well format. The method was validated using well characterized stimulants, including cocaine, amphetamine, 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), α‐PVP, and fluoxetine and performed similarly to other methods. Seven synthetic cathinones all showed highest potency for DAT inhibition, followed by NET and SERT. The rank potency for DAT inhibition IC50 (nM) was MPHP (4.53) > 4Cl‐α‐PVP (8.05) > 3F‐α‐PVP (12.7) > α‐PiHP (13.4) > N‐ethylpentylone (16.9) > N‐ethylhexedrone (44.5) > 4‐methylpentedrone (261). All but 4‐methylpentedrone were more potent than amphetamine (257) and cocaine (111). The DAT/SERT inhibition ratio for the cathinones was in the range from 5.02 for 4‐methylpentedrone to >3730 for α‐PiHP, compared to 1.64 for cocaine and >4030 for α‐PVP. All seven substances had inhibition profiles similar to those of potent stimulants with high abuse potential.
Cerium(IV) Nitrate Complexes With Bidentate Phosphine Oxides
Authors: Coles Simon J. , Cooper Simon , Klooster Wim T. , McCormick Mc Pherson Laura J , Platt Andrew W. G.
Published: July 2023

The reactions between ceric ammonium nitrate, (NH4)2Ce(NO3)6, (CAN) and the bidentate phosphine oxides, 4,5‐bis(diphenylphosphine oxide)‐9,9‐dimethylxanthene (L1), oxydi‐2,1‐phenylene bis(diphenylphosphine dioxide) (L2), 1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane dioxide (L3) and 1,4‐bis(diphenylphosphino)butane dioxide, L4 have been investigated. The crystal structures of the molecular Ce(NO3)4L1 (1), and ionic [Ce(NO3)3L32][NO3]⋅CHCl3 (3), [Ce(NO3)3L32][NO3] (4) and the polymeric [Ce(NO3)3L41.5] [NO3] (5) and the cerium(III) complex [Ce(NO3)2L12][NO3] (2) are reported. The thermal stability of the complexes has been examined by thermogravimetry with the gaseous decomposition products analysed by infrared spectroscopy. Evolution of CO2 is found for both Ce(III) and Ce(IV) complexes with the later also forming NO2. The formation of the complexes in solution has been studied by 31P NMR spectroscopy and further complexes [Ce(NO3)3L12]+[NO3]− and [Ce(NO3)2L13]2+2[NO3]− identified in CD3CN solution. The complex (1) exists as a single molecular species in solution and is stable in dichloromethane whilst (3) decomposes on standing in both CD2Cl2 and CD3CN to Ce(III) containing species. Complexes of L2 have been identified by solution 31P NMR spectroscopy and these decompose in solution to give Ce(NO3)3L22. This study represents the first structural characterisations of Ce(IV) complexes with bidentate phosphine oxides.
Insights into coconut oil's anti‐obesity potential: In vitro modulation of lipidic accumulation, adipolysis, and immune response
Authors: Machado Manuela , Rodriguez‐Alcalá Luís M. , Pintado Manuela , Gomes Ana Maria
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this work was to evaluate coconut oil's effect on lipid metabolism‐related diseases and immune response using in vitro models. The coconut oil doses were selected according to the results of the safety evaluation performed through genotoxicity and cytotoxicity tests. Then its capacity to modulate obesity‐related metabolism was evaluated by measuring adipolysis in 3T3‐L1 differentiated adipocytes and hepatic lipid accumulation in hepatocytes (Hep G2). The immunomodulatory activity was evaluated using Caco‐2 cells and quantifying pro‐inflammatory cytokines’ production (IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α). Coconut oil, mainly comprised of medium‐chain fatty acids (>60% of total fatty acids), showed a high antioxidant capacity (125.76 ± 11.63 µM trolox equivalent/mL). The results showed that coconut oil was capable of reducing 68% of the lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and 42% in adipocytes. It was also capable of modulating the immune response in IL‐1β Caco‐2 stimulated cells, reducing IL‐6 secretion (22% in the presence of 10 mg/mL of coconut oil and by 19% when 15 mg/mL) and TNF‐α secretion (90% and 42% in the presence of 15 or 10 mg/mL of coconut oil, respectively). In short, coconut oil shows great potential for the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals targeting lipid metabolism‐related diseases.

Practical applications: This study describes the impact of organic virgin coconut oil on obesity‐related metabolism and immune response. Despite the high content of saturated fatty acids, this vegetable oil has several beneficial effects in the obesity context by the reduction of lipid accumulation.

Coconut oil can reduce lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and adipocytes.

Coconut oil is capable of modulating the immune response in gut cells.
Concomitant use of dupilumab with glucocorticoid in bullous pemphigoid reduces disease severity: A preliminary study
Authors: Hu Lingyu , Huang Ruiting , Jiang Fuqiong , You Shuqiong , Wu Qian
Published: July 2023

Objective

To retrospectively analyze the efficacy and safety of dupilumab in the treatment of bullous pemphigoid.

Methods

From October 2020 to October 2022, the medical records of patients with bullous pemphigoid who were treated with dupilumab in our department were collected retrospectively to analyze the therapeutic effect and changes in laboratory indexes.

Results

The records of a total of 11 patients with bullous pemphigoid who were treated with dupilumab was reviewed. Within 2 weeks of the treatment, 10 (90.9%) of the 11 patients had complete or substantial control of the disease. The BPDAI scores of the patients decreased from baseline 113 (62, 181) to 37 (6, 130) at 2 weeks (p = .001) and 4 (0, 37) at 12 weeks after treatment (p < .001). In the 11 patients treated with dupilumab, the relief time of pruritus was 0–3 days (0.5, 7) days, and the pruritus was significantly alleviated after 2 weeks (t = 15.925, p < .001). The DLQI score decreased from (25.5 ± 2.5) before treatment, to (11.8 ± 4.4) at 2 weeks (t = 10.764, p < .001) and (2.1 ± 1.9) at 12 weeks (t = 30.038, p < .001). The patients had high eosinophil counts, high serum IgE levels, low serum total protein levels, and abnormal blood coagulation function. The aforementioned indicators gradually returned to normal after treatment. No adverse reactions occurred during the treatment.

Conclusion

Dupilumab can effectively control the condition of bullous pemphigoid, efficiently relieve pruritus symptoms, and is relatively safe.
Systemic lupus erythematosus with diffuse splenic calcification: A case report
Authors: Su Shanshan , Zhong Huohu
Published: July 2023

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease with the main clinical characteristics of multisystem and multiorgan involvement of the whole body. It is commonly seen in skin mucosa, skeletal muscle, and the respiratory system while rarely involving the spleen. In this case, we present a young female patient with SLE with the symptom of progressing splenic calcification.

Methods

A 21–year–old female patient was admitted to our hospital in 2012 with complaints of “fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and knee pain”, and then was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus combined with lupus nephritis. The first ultrasound examination was normal in 2012. However, when she returned to the hospital in 2016, she was found to have multiple calcifications in her spleen. After discharge, the patient was treated with commonly used immunosuppressive drugs and was followed up regularly for symptoms of multiple calcifications in the spleen.

Results

Subsequent follow–up over a long period revealed a progressive development of multiple calcifications in the spleen, with a progressive increase in the size and number of calcified foci over time.

Conclusion

When a patient is found to have diffuse splenic calcification on ultrasound, care should be taken to differentiate SLE with multiple splenic calcifications from sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, brucellosis, and rheumatoid arthritis in conjunction with a medical history and relevant laboratory tests.
Using interest rates to predict economic growth: Are corporate bonds better?
Authors: McMillan David G.
Published: July 2023

We consider whether government bonds, through the term structure, or corporate bonds, through the default yield, provide predictive power for output, consumption and investment growth in the United States. Such predictive power will allow policy‐makers to use the information as a leading indicator for macroeconomic performance and will improve our understanding of the links between real and financial markets. Full sample results suggest that both interest rate series exhibit predictive power for each of the macroeconomic growth series. Time‐variation in the predictive coefficient reveals the waning influence of the term structure and the rising influence of the default yield. Forecast results, which are obtained from a rolling window approach, likewise suggest both series have information content for macroeconomic conditions, but there is a change in their relative strengths. These results may arise as interest rates have declined since the highs of the early to mid‐1980s thus reducing the information content of government yields, whereas corporate bonds respond more to investor views of macroeconomic risk, which affects a firm's ability to repay its debt. Furthermore, short‐term rates are largely held unprecedently low since the dotcom crash.
Risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse recurrence following colpocleisis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Nahshon Chen , Karmakar Debjyoti , Abramov Yoram , Kugelman Nir , Lavie Ofer , Zilberlicht Ariel
Published: July 2023

Background

Studies aimed to assess risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) recurrence following colpocleisis with nonconclusive results.

Objective

To investigate risk factors for POP recurrence following colpocleisis.

Search Strategy

MEDLINE, PUBMED, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched.

Selection Criteria

Experimental and non‐experimental studies investigating POP recurrence following colpocleisis.

Data Collection and Analysis

We assessed the association between preoperative and postoperative physical examination findings, demographics and medical history, and the risk of recurrence following colpocleisis.

Main Results

A total of 954 studies were identified, of which five studies comprising 2978 patients were eligible for analysis. Both preoperative and postoperative genital hiatus length were significantly longer in the recurrence group (mean difference [MD] 0.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01–0.94, P = 0.04, I2 = 0% and MD 1.15, 95% CI 0.50–1.81, P = 0.005, I2 = 0%; respectively). Preoperative total vaginal length (TVL) did not differ between groups (MD 0.05, 95% CI –0.40 to 0.50, P = 0.83, I2 = 6%), postoperative TVL was found significantly longer in the recurrence group (MD 0.07, 95% CI –0.03 to 1.38, P = 0.04, I2 = 68%). Both preoperative and postoperative perineal body did not differ between groups. Women with a previous POP surgery were more likely to experience recurrence following colpocleisis (relative risk 2.09, 95% CI 1.18–3.69, P = 0.01, I2 = 0%). Patient's age and previous hysterectomy did not affect recurrence rates.

Conclusion

Wider preoperative and postoperative genital hiatus as well as longer post‐operative TVL and previous POP surgery were associated with a higher risk for recurrence following colpocleisis, highlighting the importance of appropriate patient selection and surgical technique in minimizing this risk.
Umbilical cord cysts: Classification, diagnosis, prognosis, and pregnancy recommendations
Authors: Chen Huiling , Jia Mingzhu , Yang Shuqi , Zou Juan , Xiao Xue
Published: July 2023

Umbilical cord cysts (UCCs)—cysts located in the umbilical cord that are derived from an abnormal embryonic development process—are typically an incidental discovery during prenatal ultrasound. It can be described as either a pseudocyst or a true UCC, which results from focal edema or degeneration of Wharton jelly or the remnants of embryonic development, respectively. Due to the relative rarity of the UCC, the clinical guidance of UCCs is not yet available. Herein, the aim of this paper is to discuss the classification, diagnosis, prognosis, and clinical management of UCCs through a literature review, in order to improve the understanding of UCCs among clinical obstetricians and pediatricians.
Humanized disulfide‐stabilized diabody against fibroblast growth factor‐2 inhibits PD‐L1 expression and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in hepatoma cells through STAT3
Authors: Sun Huamin , Song Xinran , Li Cunjie , Li Qing , Liu Shifeng , Deng Ning
Published: July 2023

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) plays an important role in tumor angiogenesis. Humanized disulfide‐stable double‐chain antibody against fibroblast growth factor‐2 (anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody) is a small molecule antibody with good tissue permeability and low immunogenicity, which has potential in tumor‐targeted therapy. This study intended to investigate the effect of anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody on the migration and expression of programmed death‐ligand1 (PD‐L1) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. The anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody was expressed under methanol induction and purified with Ni2+‐affinity chromatography. Anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody significantly inhibited cell viability and proliferation in SK‐Hep1 and HepG2 cells as confirmed by CCK‐8 assays and colony formation assays. Western blot assays indicated that the proliferation of SK‐Hep1 and HepG2 cells was inhibited by anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody through inhibiting the phosphorylation activation of AKT and MAPK. The results of transwell and western blot assays showed that the migration and invasion of SK‐Hep1 and HepG2 cells were suppressed by anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody by affecting the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Meanwhile, anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody inhibited the expression of PD‐L1, and STAT3 participated in this process. Analysis of RT‐PCR and Western blot suggested that fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 inhibitor 1 (FGFR4‐IN‐1) suppressed the expression of PD‐L1, while STAT3 overexpression reversed this inhibitory effect. In addition, overexpression of STAT3 promoted migration and invasion and restored the suppressive effect of anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody on EMT. In conclusion, anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody could inhibit the expression of PD‐L1 and EMT of hepatoma cells through FGF2/FGFR4/STAT3 axis. These results suggested that anti‐FGF2 ds‐Diabody has potential clinical application in inhibiting metastasis and immune escape of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Editorial Introduction: Zeitenwende — Turn of Eras
Authors: Sellmann Meinolf , Selman Bart
Published: July 2023

A new wave of innovation disrupts our social and economic life as we have lived it in the 20th century. On the one hand, artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to increase our efficiency and ability to cope with the changes that are coming. On the other hand, AI itself also causes disruptions that may be managed best by contributions from other fields. We aim to start an interdisciplinary discourse with this special issue and bring together a set of articles from AI researchers, sociologists, economists, and psychologists who discuss five basic questions: How can AI help? How will AI affect economy and work? How does AI affect democracy? How does AI affect our togetherness? And how does AI affect the human self?
Rethinking the Maturity of Artificial Intelligence in Safety‐Critical Settings
Authors: Cummings Mary L.
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence, in the form of machine learning, has the potential to transform many safety‐critical applications such as those in transportation and healthcare. However, despite significant investment and impressive demonstrations, such technologies have struggled to live up to their promises. To this end, this article illustrates that machine learning fundamentally lacks the ability to leverage top‐down reasoning, a critical element in safety‐critical systems. This is especially important in situations where uncertainty can grow very quickly, requiring adaption to unknowns. This fundamental lack of contextual reasoning, combined with a lack of understanding of what constitutes maturity in artificial intelligence‐embedded systems, has significantly contributed to the failures of these systems. Demonstrations where safety‐critical artificial intelligence‐enabled systems function as if they were almost operational should not be a substitute for testing. Instead, companies and regulatory agencies need to work together to develop clear criteria and certification protocols before such technologies are made publicly available.
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work: A Proactive Strategy
Authors: Kochan Thomas A.
Published: July 2023

One of the greatest challenges and opportunities of our time lies in harnessing the innovative potential of emerging technologies to help achieve a more prosperous and just society. Discussions of how to do so are at the center of debates over how artificial intelligence, machine learning, and associated tools might affect the future of work. In this article, I will outline a proactive strategy for addressing these issues.
Artificial Intelligence's Grand Challenges: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Mani Ganesh
Published: July 2023

Innovative, bold initiatives that capture the imagination of researchers and system builders are often required to spur a field of science or technology forward. A vision for the future of artificial intelligence was laid out by Turing Award winner Raj Reddy in his 1988 Presidential address to the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence. It is time to provide an accounting of the progress that has been made in the field, over the last three decades, toward the challenge goals. While some tasks such as the world‐champion chess machine were accomplished in short order, many others, such as self‐replicating systems, require more focus and breakthroughs for completion. A new set of challenges for the current decade is also proposed, spanning the health, wealth, and wisdom spheres.