bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inkjet printing of polyurethane micro/nanofibers using TiO2 and Ag NPs on as‐spun mats for enhancing tissue engineering applications
Authors: Rafiq Muheeb , Khan Rumysa Saleem , Rather Anjum Hamid , Qureashi Aaliya , Pandith Altaf Hussain , Wani Taha Umair , Bhat Kiesar Sideeq , Beigh Mushtaq A. , Majeed Shafquat , Sheikh Faheem A.
Published: November 2024

This study demonstrates the use of inkjet printing technology to directly deposit nanoparticles (NPs) onto polyurethane (PU) micro/nanofibers. The biocompatibility of as‐spun fibers was enhanced by depositing titanium dioxide (TiO2) and silver (Ag) NPs, which were synthesized using quince apple extract. The scanning electron microscope showed the presence of NPs on printed fibers. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed a vibrational bond of TiOO around 564.5 cm−1 and broadness in a peak around 3458.8 cm−1 due to printed NPs. A significant decrease in the contact angle from 106.2 ± 1.1° to 73.1 ± 1.0° was observed. The printing also altered the tensile properties of pristine PU mats. An increase in the tensile strength from 6.48 to 7.83 MPa was seen. The printed mats having Ag NPs showed inhibitory properties against gram‐positive and negative bacterial strains. The maximum inhibition zones measuring 10.4 ± 0.10 mm against Escherichia coli and 10.1 ± 0.06 mm against Staphylococcus aureus were observed. The in‐vitro studies showed higher cellular viability in printed nanofibers. Moreover, the cell attachment results using 4,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI) staining revealed a uniform distribution of cells in TiO2 and Ag NPs deposited mats. The inkjet printing can be a simple technique to post‐modify micro/nanofiber with different materials to create an advanced biocompatible material.
The Role of Hearing Aids in Improving Dual‐Task Gait Performance in Older Adults With Presbycusis: A Cognitive and Motor Analysis
Authors: Soylemez Emre , Soylemez Tugce Gurel , Apaydin Aydin Sinan , Apaydin Zuhal Koc , Yasar Murat
Published: November 2024

Background

Cognitive decline is a common challenge faced by older individuals with presbycusis; their performance on dual‐task (DT) activities is generally lower compared to those without hearing loss. However, the influence of hearing aids on nonauditory cognitive decline in this population remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the effect of hearing aids on nonauditory DT performance in older adults with presbycusis.

Material and Methods

This study included older people with presbycusis who used hearing aids (P&HA group), those with presbycusis who did not use hearing aids (PoHA group), and a control group of healthy adults. Forward and backward digit span tests and timed up and go test (TUG) were administered to all individuals. TUG and motor and cognitive (forward and backward digit span) tasks were applied simultaneously to evaluate the participants' DT performance.

Results

The study comprised 60 individuals with presbycusis (19 females, 41 males; mean age: 73.23 ± 6.49 years) and 30 healthy adults (15 females, 15 males; mean age: 35.93 ± 8.57 years). Healthy adults performed better than the P&HA and PoHA groups in all the administered tests (p < 0.05). There was a moderate negative relationship between the severity of hearing loss and the forward and backward digit span test performances (p < 0.05). The P&HA group performed better than the PoHA group on the DT cognitive forward and backward digit span tests.

Conclusion

The use of hearing aids and their proper fitting are important not only for improving communication skills and reducing listening effort but also for supporting nonauditory cognitive functions, minimizing the risk of falls during DT activities, and enhancing the overall quality of life.
Effect of neutrophils on tumor immunity and immunotherapy resistance with underlying mechanisms
Authors: Yao Jiali , Ji Linlin , Wang Guang , Ding Jin
Published: November 2024

Neutrophils are key mediators of the immune response and play essential roles in the development of tumors and immune evasion. Emerging studies indicate that neutrophils also play a critical role in the immunotherapy resistance in cancer. In this review, firstly, we summarize the novel classification and phenotypes of neutrophils and describe the regulatory relationships between neutrophils and tumor metabolism, flora microecology, neuroendocrine and tumor therapy from a new perspective. Secondly, we review the mechanisms by which neutrophils affect drug resistance in tumor immunotherapy from the aspects of the immune microenvironment, tumor antigens, and epigenetics. Finally, we propose several promising strategies for overcoming tumor immunotherapy resistance by targeting neutrophils and provide new research ideas in this area.
Shaping Clinical Policy for Salvage Radiotherapy After Radical Prostatectomy in Prostate Cancer: Bridging the Gap Between Clinical Trials and Daily Practice
Authors: Bettoli Piero , Röling Evangelina , Russo Moises , Sánchez María Fernanda , Paredes Inti , Sapunar Jorge
Published: November 2024

Purpose and Objective

Salvage radiotherapy (sRT) can have similar outcomes to adjuvant radiotherapy (aRT) if administered at the earliest evidence of biochemical recurrence. RADICALS‐RT was the first trial to support this hypothesis and a policy of observation after radical prostatectomy (RP) with early sRT has become the new standard of care since then. This study assessed the impact of RADICALS‐RT in the clinical practice regarding the timing of sRT for prostate cancer initially treated with RP.

Methods

Data from 297 patients who underwent sRT after radical RP were retrospectively collected. Two groups were created and analyzed on the basis of the date of RADICALS‐RT presentation at ESMO. After these results were released in October 2021, our institutional postoperative radiotherapy policy was revisited, and a third group was created and analyzed separately.

Results

Median PSA for Groups 1, 2, and 3 were 0.33, 0.27, and 0.2, respectively. Less than one‐third of patients in Groups 1 and 2 had a postoperative PSA of 0.2 ng/mL or less at the time of sRT. Group 3 showed statistically significant differences in median PSA at the time of sRT compared with Groups 1 and 2.

Conclusions

RADICALS‐RT demonstrated a significant impact on clinical practice only after being complemented with real local evidence.
Weighing‐up long‐term psychological support for bariatric surgery patients
Authors: Faulkner Nathan , Lusher Joanne
Published: November 2024

Bariatric surgery is becoming a more commonly used treatment for the management of obesity; however, measures of effectiveness have tended to rely heavily on the short‐term physical health indicators of success, whilst largely neglecting psychological and social factors. The understandings achieved through listening to the lived experiences of countless individuals as they steered their way through the complex journey of bariatric surgery, this commentary deliberates on some of the unique lived experiences of patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and the overriding and under‐supported long‐term social and psychological aftermath.
Rare giant ovarian thecoma presented as atypical/incomplete Meigs' syndrome: A case image report
Authors: Potiris Anastasios , Pateras Ioannis S. , Koufopoulos Nektarios , Samaras Menelaos G. , Topis Spyridon , Chousmekeridou Maria‐Gesthimani , Zikopoulos Athanasios , Domali Ekaterini , Drakakis Peter , Stavros Sofoklis
Published: November 2024

Key Clinical Message

We present a 39‐centimeter thecoma with ascites and elevated Ca‐125 values which is compatible with an atypical/incomplete Meigs' syndrome. Giant ovarian masses with elevated Ca‐125 values and ascites are an alarming combination, although Gynecologists should be aware that there are also benign entities that mimic advanced stage ovarian cancer.
The Roles of Molecular Concavities in the Hierarchical Self‐Assembly of Giant Tetrahedra for CO2 Uptake
Authors: Lin Heng‐Yi , Lu Huan‐Chang , Tsai Chih‐Hsuan , Liu Hsueh‐Ju , Chung Po‐Weng , Chuang Wei‐Tsung , Wang Chien‐Lung
Published: November 2024

Giant tetrahedral molecules have sparked significant interest in the past decade due to their unique and diverse supramolecular nanostructures. The longer and bulkier peripheral substituents create deep molecular concavities and thus contribute to the different self‐assembly behaviors compared to the conventional small tetrahedral molecules. In this study, a molecular giant tetrahedra, TetraNDI, was synthesized to investigate the important roles of the molecular concavities in the self‐assembly mechanism. Single‐crystal structural characterizations indicate that the TetraNDI takes its trigonal concavities to form 1D supramolecular columns, and its tetragonal concavities to reach close inter‐columnar packing. The difficulty in occupying the concavities leads to the path‐dependent phase behaviors of the giant tetrahedra. It is also found that the remaining molecular concavities in the supramolecular scaffolds affect the CO2 affinity of TetraNDI. With an understanding of the packing principles of molecular giant tetrahedra, the structure‐property relationships could be better evaluated in the future and might broaden the horizon of porous materials.
Chiral Induction of a Tetrakis(porphyrin) in Various Chiral Solvents
Authors: Hirao Takehiro , Kishino Sei , Yoshida Masaya , Haino Takeharu
Published: November 2024

Non‐covalent interactions offer an alternative way for developing stimulus‐responsive materials such as sensors, machines, and drug‐delivery systems. We recently reported that a urethane‐equipped tetrakis(porphyrin) forms one‐handed helical supramolecular polymers in solution in response to chirality of chiral solvents. Conformational changes in helical sense were detected using circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, which showed that the tetrakis(porphyrin) can possibly be used as a sensor for determining the enantiomeric excess of a chiral analyte. Hence, we studied the scope and limitations of the chiral‐induction behavior of tetrakis(porphyrin) to deepen the understanding of tetrakis(porphyrin)‐based chiral sensing systems. Herein, we report the chiral‐induction behavior of tetrakis(porphyrin) in various chiral solvents, which was found to be CD‐active in many chiral solvents. Notably, the tetrakis(porphyrin) was CD active in a cryptochiral molecular solvent, which is exciting because the chiralities of acyclic saturated hydrocarbons are hard to sense. Consequently, this study highlights the potential advantages of supramolecular chiral sensors capable of targeting a wide range of analytes, including molecules that are absorption‐silent in the UV/vis region, ones devoid of anchoring functional groups, and acyclic, saturated hydrocarbons.
B12‐Catalyzed Carbonylation of Carbon Tetrahalides: Using a Broad Range of Visible Light to Access Diverse Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Shichijo Keita , Tanaka Miho , Kametani Yohei , Shiota Yoshihito , Fujitsuka Mamoru , Shimakoshi Hisashi
Published: November 2024

Visible‐light‐driven organic synthesis is a green and sustainable method for producing fine chemicals and is highly desirable at both laboratory and industrial scales. In this study, we developed a broad‐range (including the red region) visible‐light‐driven carbonylation of CCl4, CBr4, and CBr3F with nucleophiles, such as amines and alcohols, using a B12−Mg2+/TiO2 hybrid catalyst. Carbonyl molecules such as ureas, carbamates, carbonate esters, and carbamoyl fluorides were synthesized with high selectivity and efficiency under mild conditions. Diffuse reflectance UV‐vis spectroscopy, femtosecond time‐resolved diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations revealed the reaction mechanism is a combination of SN2 and single‐electron transfer. This is a rare example of a low‐energy, red‐light‐driven photocatalysis, which has been a highly desired organic reaction in recent years. We believe that this study provides a general platform to access diverse carbonyl molecules and could promote photocatalytic carbonylation reactions on a pilot scale.
The expression of MUC5AC in patients with rhinosinusitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Yitao
Published: November 2024

Background

To understand the connection between Muc5AC expression and the likelihood of rhinosinusitis, with the goal of providing insights into its prospective use as a biomarker.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang databases for studies up to November 2023 to conduct a literature review. After screening and quality assessment, eligible studies meeting the criteria were included. Muc5AC expression and rhinosinusitis association was analyzed by STATA 14.0.

Results

Including weighted mean difference and 95% confidence interval, were reported. The meta‐analysis included 16 studies with 1448 rhinosinusitis patients. MUC5AC expression was significantly up‐regulated in both chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP; WMD: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.41–0.63) and chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP; WMD: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.28–0.56) patients compared to controls. IHC positive area analysis corroborated these findings, with elevated MUC5AC levels in CRSwNP (WMD: 25.61; 95% CI: 22.41–28.81) and CRSsNP (WMD: 39.74; 95% CI: 25.6–53.88) patients. Subgroup analysis based on tissue type (nasal tissue fluid and sinus mucosa) consistently supported the overall results.

Conclusion

Our meta‐analysis robustly demonstrates a significant association between elevated MUC5AC expression and rhinosinusitis risk. This finding underscores the potential of MUC5AC as a molecular marker, providing valuable insights for future research and potential therapeutic interventions in rhinosinusitis management.

Systematic review registration

CRD42024518932.
Natural killer cell antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity to Plasmodium falciparum is impacted by cellular phenotypes, erythrocyte polymorphisms, parasite diversity and intensity of transmission
Authors: Tukwasibwe Stephen , Lewis Savannah Nicole , Taremwa Yoweri , van der Ploeg Kattria , Press Kathleen D , Ty Maureen , Namirimu Nankya Felistas , Musinguzi Kenneth , Nansubuga Evelyn , Bach Florian , Chamai Martin , Okitwi Martin , Tumusiime Gerald , Nakimuli Annettee , Colucci Francesco , Kamya Moses R , Nankabirwa Joaniter I , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Greenhouse Bryan , Dorsey Grant , Rosenthal Philip J , Ssewanyana Isaac , Jagannathan Prasanna
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Natural killer (NK) cells make important contributions to anti‐malarial immunity through antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), but the role of different components of this pathway in promoting NK cell activation remains unclear.

Methods

We compared the functions and phenotypes of NK cells from malaria‐exposed and malaria‐naive donors, and then varied the erythrocyte genetic background, Plasmodium falciparum strain and opsonising plasma used in ADCC to observe their impacts on NK cell degranulation as measured by CD107a mobilisation.

Results

Natural killer cells from malaria‐exposed adult Ugandan donors had enhanced ADCC, but an impaired pro‐inflammatory response to cytokine stimulation, compared to NK cells obtained from malaria‐naive adult North American donors. Cellular phenotypes from malaria‐exposed donors reflected this specialisation for ADCC, with a compartment‐wide downregulation of the Fc receptor γ‐chain and enrichment of highly differentiated CD56dim and CD56neg populations. NK cell degranulation was enhanced in response to opsonised P. falciparum schizonts cultured in sickle cell heterozygous erythrocytes relative to wild‐type erythrocytes, and when using opsonising plasma collected from donors living in a high transmission area compared to a lower transmission area despite similar levels of 3D7 schizont‐specific IgG levels. However, degranulation was lowered in response to opsonised field isolate P. falciparum schizonts isolated from clinical malaria infections, compared to the 3D7 laboratory strain typically used in these assays.

Conclusion

This work highlights important host and parasite factors that contribute to ADCC efficacy that should be considered in the design of ADCC assays.
Associations Between Self‐Reported Cocaine Use Patterns and Cocaine and Its Metabolites in Hair: Implications for Clinical and Forensic Practices
Authors: Grison Simon , Johnson‐Ferguson Lydia , Vonmoos Matthias , Baumgartner Markus R. , Quednow Boris B.
Published: November 2024

In forensic toxicology, it has been debated if hair testing allows an estimation of the intensity of cocaine use—an assumption that may have risen because self‐reports in a forensic setting are of uncertain validity per se. We therefore investigated the relationship between self‐reported cocaine use and cocaine hair concentrations (including its main metabolites benzoylecgonine and norcocaine) in chronic cocaine users voluntary participating in psychiatric study settings. Additionally, we tested whether hair testing can distinguish between individuals with and without a diagnosis of cocaine dependency. Cocaine users (N = 195) from three independent experimental studies reported their average powder cocaine consumption in g/week over the last 3–4 months in an interview and provided a 3‐ to 4‐cm hair sample assayed with liquid chromatography tandem‐mass spectrometry. Moreover, study participants were assessed with the Structured Clinical Interview (SCID‐IV) for psychiatric diagnoses. Using linear regression models, we found a robust correlation between cocainetotal (sum of cocaine and metabolites) hair concentration and self‐reported cocaine use in g/week (rcocainetotal = 0.47, p < 0.001), indicating that 1000 pg/mg cocainetotal corresponded to a use of 0.80 g/week (confidence interval [95%]: 0.56–1.07 g/week). In logistic regression models, cocainetotal hair concentration predicted cocaine dependency with a sensitivity of 0.79 and a specificity of 0.65 (threshold 0.5), suggesting its acceptable capacity to distinguish dependent from non‐dependent cocaine users. The findings may have significant implications for forensic and clinical practices, encouraging the use of hair analysis as a potential tool for monitoring cocaine use and dependence.
Study on damage and failure characteristics of loaded gas‐bearing rock–coal–rock combination structures
Authors: Du Feng , Wang Kai , Yang Wanyu , Sun Jiazhi , Fang Xiyang , Zhang Yiyang , Shu Longyong , Wang Liang , Zhou Jiaxu
Published: November 2024

The essence of the outburst–rock burst compound dynamic disaster is the disaster behavior of the “gas‐coal‐surrounding rock” system under the comprehensive action of the stress field and the seepage field. Based on the geological occurrence characteristics of coal and rock in the roof, coal, and floor, this study combined experimental research and theoretical analysis to explore the effects of confining pressure, gas pressure, and axial loading rate on the mechanical behavior of gas‐bearing rock–coal–rock combination structures (“RCR combination”). The results show that both decreasing gas pressure and increasing confining pressure can improve the deformation capacity and bearing capacity of the RCR combination. When the gas pressure decreases from 1.5 to 0.5 MPa and the confining pressure increases from 3 to 9 MPa, the peak stress of the RCR combination increases by 15.83% and 184.02%, respectively. On increasing the axial loading rate, the peak stress of the RCR combination first increases and then decreases, and the elastic modulus continues to decrease. There is a good correspondence between stress and acoustic emission counts (AE), which can be used as a predictive index for judging rock fracture instability. Compared with rock, coal exerts much greater influence on the mechanical strength of the RCR combination. The theoretical analysis shows that the parameters m and F0 mainly affect the peak stress of the RCR combination, and the speed of stress reduction after the peak of the RCR combination is influenced by the parameter m. The coal elastic modulus exerts greater influence on the bearing capacity of the RCR combination than the rock elastic modulus. When the elastic modulus of rocks increases from 10 to 25 GPa and that of coal increases from 2 to 5 GPa, the peak stress of the RCR combination increases by 9.87% and 8.97%, respectively.
Design of Electrodes and Electrolytes for Silicon‐Based Anode Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Xiaoyi , Wang Bin , Ye Yaowen , Liang Jin , Kong Jie
Published: November 2024

The development of lithium‐ion batteries with high‐energy densities is substantially hampered by the graphite anode's low theoretical capacity (372 mAh g−1). There is an urgent need to explore novel anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. Silicon (Si), the second‐largest element outside of Earth, has an exceptionally high specific capacity (3579 mAh g−1), regarded as an excellent choice for the anode material in high‐capacity lithium‐ion batteries. However, it is low intrinsic conductivity and volume amplification during service status, prevented it from developing further. These difficulties can be successfully overcome by incorporating carbon into pure Si systems to form a composite anode and constructing a buffer structure. This review looks at the diffusion mechanism, various silicon‐based anode material configurations (including sandwich, core‐shell, yolk‐shell, and other 3D mesh/porous structures), as well as the appropriate binders and electrolytes. Finally, a summary and viewpoints are offered on the characteristics and structural layout of various structures, metal/non‐metal doping, and the compatibility and application of various binders and electrolytes for silicon‐based anodes. This review aims to provide valuable insights into the research and development of silicon‐based carbon anodes for high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries, as well as their integration with binders and electrolyte.
Semaglutide normalizes increased cardiomyocyte calcium transients in a rat model of high fat diet‐induced obesity
Authors: Sequeira Vasco , Theisen Julia , Ermer Katharina J. , Oertel Marie , Xu Anton , Weissman David , Ecker Katharina , Dudek Jan , Fassnacht Martin , Nickel Alexander , Kohlhaas Michael , Maack Christoph , Dischinger Ulrich
Published: November 2024

Aims

Obesity increases the risk of heart failure with preserved (HFpEF), but not reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1‐RA) semaglutide improves outcome of patients with obesity with or without HFpEF, while GLP‐1‐RAs were associated with adverse outcome in patients with HFrEF. Here, we investigate the effect of in vivo treatment with semaglutide on excitation‐contraction coupling in a rat model of obesity.

Methods and results

Rats received high‐fat/high‐fructose diet for 8 weeks and were then randomized to semaglutide (HFD/Sema) or vehicle (HFD/Veh) for another 8 weeks, during which they could choose between HFD and a low‐fat/high‐fructose diet (LFD). Control rats received either standard chow (CON), HFD or LFD only, without treatment. After 16 weeks, sarcomere shortening and cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]c) were determined in isolated cardiomyocytes. Compared with CON, HFD/Veh increased the amplitude of [Ca2+]c transients and systolic sarcomere shortening in absence or presence of β‐adrenergic stimulation, which was reversed by HFD/Sema. Caffeine‐induced sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release and L‐type Ca2+ channel (LTCC) currents were reduced by HFD/Sema versus HFD/Veh, while SR Ca2+ ATPase activity remained unaffected. Compared with HFD, LFD increased [Ca2+]c transients and sarcomere shortening further despite similar effects on body weight.

Conclusions

While HFD increased cardiomyocyte [Ca2+]c transients and systolic sarcomere shortening, semaglutide normalized these alterations, mediated by reduced SR Ca2+ load and LTCC currents. Because increased LTCC currents were previously traced to cardiac hypertrophy, these effects may explain why GLP‐1‐RAs provide benefits for patients with obesity with or without HFpEF, but rather adverse outcome in HFrEF.
The Catalytic Synthesis of α‐Bromo Aryl Acetic Acids by Late‐Stage Bromination
Authors: Wang Junyu , Wu Xin , Wang Beining , Yuan Xiangyang , Yang Shengnan , Hu Haipeng
Published: November 2024

We report a catalytic late‐stage bromination strategy for the α‐C−H functionalization of aryl acetic acid. The aryl acetic acid was transformed into enediolate in the presence of an (AcO)4B2O with the combination of DBU, and consequently underwent an electrophilic bromination reaction with pyridinium tribromide. A wide range of α‐bromo aryl acetic acids were isolated in yields of 19–65 %. In addition, the reaction could be performed on a gram scale, and several transformations of the products were carried out.
Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Construction of Axially Chiral Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Yan Yu , Pan Min , Ming Jialin , Yue Jun‐Ping , Chen Xiao‐Wang , Gui Yong‐Yuan , Yu Da‐Gang
Published: November 2024

The synthesis of axially chiral carbonyl compounds has attracted considerable interest in organic synthesis due to their prevalence in natural products and pharmaceuticals, as well as their utility in material science and catalysis. Transition‐metal‐catalyzed approaches have become powerful tools for their construction, offering high efficiency, selectivity, and versatility among the various methods developed. This concept aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the transition‐metal‐catalyzed asymmetric synthesis of axially chiral carbonyl compounds, integrating scattered work with different catalytic systems. This feature concept is divided into four types of reactions based on the strategies employed: cross‐coupling reactions, cycloaddition reactions, desymmetrization reactions, and other C−H activation reactions.
Silyl Radical‐Participated Silylfunctionalization of Alkenes and Alkynes
Authors: Zheng Yang , Zhu Yi‐Jie , Zhang Yi‐Nan , Chen Fei
Published: November 2024

Alkenes and alkynes are inexpensive and readily available basic chemicals. Silyl radical‐participated silylation of alkenes and alkynes provides a powerful tool for the direct construction of organosilicon compounds. Compared to hydrosilylation reactions, silylfunctionalization reactions are more attractive and advantageous in building diverse organosilicon compounds, which has led to their becoming a research focus in organic synthesis. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in silyl radical‐participated silylfunctionalization of alkenes and alkynes.
Developments in the Construction of Benzo[b]Thiophenes from 2‐Alkynylthioanisoles by Electrophilic and Radical Cyclization Reactions
Authors: Shang Tianbo , Ma Chao , Xie Mengyu , Gao Yuzhen , Cai Tao
Published: November 2024

Benzo[b]thiophene moieties are important skeletons which have been widely found in many natural products, pharmaceuticals, as well as functionalized materials. 2‐Alkynylthioanisoles, a class of bifunctional compounds bearing methylthio and alkynyl groups, are easily accessible from Pd‐catalyzed Sonogashira coupling between 2‐halothioanisoles and terminal alkynes, which have been widely employed as synthons in the construction of benzo[b]thiophenes through an electrophilic or a radical pathway. This review summarizes the related developments with a particular focus on the reaction mechanism. We hope it will help in future research in this area and believe that with the discovery of new catalytic systems, the industrial synthesis of benzo[b]thiophenes from 2‐alkynylthioanisoles will be achieved soon.
Convergent Synthesis of Antitumor Aplysiatoxin Derivatives Based on a Combination of Ring‐Closing and Cross Metathesis
Authors: Aoki Mako , Takarada Hiroto , Maki Jumpei , Kobayashi Takumi , Tsukano Chihiro , Irie Kazuhiro
Published: November 2024

We investigated a convergent synthesis of aplysiatoxin analogs based on a combination of ring‐closing and cross metathesis. The route provided four analogs (3 a–d) with different side chains to determine the CH/π interaction with protein kinase C (PKC)‐C1 domains. Biochemical evaluation revealed that a naphthol moiety did not improve binding to PKC−C1 domains, suggesting that the hydrogen bonding of the hydroxy group with the PKC−C1 domains may be more important than the CH/π interaction.
A biochronological date of 3.6 million years for “Little Foot” (StW 573, Australopithecus prometheus from Sterkfontein, South Africa)
Authors: Thackeray Francis
Published: November 2024

A debate has developed with regard to geological ages of hominin fossils attributed to Australopithecus africanus and Australopithecus prometheus in South African Plio‐Pleistocene cave deposits. For the Sterkfontein caves (Members 2 and 4), cosmogenic nuclide isochron (10Be/26Al) dating has yielded age estimates ranging from 3.4 to 3.7 million years ago (Ma). However, biochronological approaches using nonhominin primates suggest an alternative age range between 2 and 2.6 Ma. Based on a new method of hominin biochronology, Thackeray and Dykes have recognized that Sterkfontein Member 4 has a mean age of 2.76 Ma associated with a wide range (circa 2.0–3.5 Ma). In this study, the Sterkfontein skull and skeleton (StW 573), nicknamed “Little Foot” from Member 2 and attributed to A. prometheus, is reassessed. A regression model applied to estimate its age provides a hypothesized date of 3.6 Ma, which compares favorably with the existing cosmogenic dates.
Improvement and Optimisation of Green Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction for Sinapic Acid Content and Lipase Inhibition From Caucasian Whortleberry (Vaccinium arctostaphylos L.) by Box–Behnken Design
Authors: Sener S. O. , Shaha S. , Kanbolat S. , Badem M. , Balkabak B. , Halil S. , Ulas Colak N. , Ozgen U. , Sevim D.
Published: November 2024

Caucasian whortleberry (Vaccinium arctostaphylos L.) is a beneficial natural source for obesity due to its rich content of phenolic compounds. It has been shown that phenolic compounds have antiobesity properties through a variety of molecular mechanisms. The goal of the current study was to identify the optimal conditions of green ultrasonic extraction (UAE) for Caucasian whortleberry via phenolic compounds and lipase inhibition. The experimental design was carried out using the response surface methodology (RSM) based on the Box–Behnken design (BBD) to detect optimum conditions of ultrasonic extraction. Three levels of three independent variables were incorporated into the BBD: ethanol concentration, temperature and time. RP‐HPLC analysis was utilised to quantify the phenolic content, and the spectroscopic method was used to evaluate the lipase inhibitions. Quadratic response surface models were suggested according to the results of the BBD model adequacy test (p < 0.0001) performed by multiple regression analysis. The data showed that the sinapic acid concentration and lipase inhibition are significantly impacted by the extraction conditions. The optimal conditions for sinapic acid content and lipase inhibition were detected as 100% ethanol concentration, 60°C and 60 min. The highest sinapic acid content (13.66 mg/g dry extract) and lipase inhibition level (IC50 = 66.22 μg/mL) with desirability of 0.8583 resulted under optimal conditions. In comparison with the conventional extraction method, optimal conditions resulted in a notable rise of 57.01% for sinapic acid content and a substantial increase of 53.12% for lipase inhibitory effect. These optimal conditions mediated more sinapic acid content and lipase inhibitor activity can be suggested for the development of food supplements or herbal medicine with Caucasian whortleberry.
Anti‐depression molecular mechanism elucidation of the phytochemicals in edible flower of Hemerocallis citrina Baroni
Authors: Zhao Ruohan , Luo Jinhai , Kim Chung Sookja , Xu Baojun
Published: November 2024

The edible flower of Hemerocallis citrina Baroni, commonly known as “Huang Huacai” in China, has anti‐depressant effects. However, targets and molecular mechanisms of Hemerocallis citrina Baroni edible flowers (HEF) in depression treatment are still unclear. The potential anti‐depression targets in HEF were identified by the intersecting results from typical drug databases. The network construction and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis were carried out for core targets. The molecular docking was conducted to predict the binding affinity between the active components and the central targets. The intersecting results indicated that there were 24 active components in HEF, with 449 anti‐depression targets identified. After screening through degree centrality (DC), betweenness centrality (BC), and closeness centrality (CC), 166 core targets were determined. Tumor protein 53 (TP53) and interleukin 6 (IL‐6) had the highest degree values. The results of GO enrichment analysis associated with anti‐depression revealed that the biological processes were negative regulation of osteoclast differentiation and positive regulation of phosphorus metabolic process. KEGG enrichment analysis results revealed that pathways, such as the phosphatidylinositol 3‑kinase‐protein kinase B (PI3K‐Akt) signaling pathway and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, were primarily associated with anti‐depression. Molecular docking results indicated that the top 10 active ingredients in HEF could bind to the central targets. This study applied network pharmacology to unveil the potential anti‐depressive mechanisms of HEF, providing a theoretical basis for further exploration of the effective components in H. citrina edible flower parts.
Phytochemical Profiling and Therapeutic Potential of Thyme (Thymus spp.): A Medicinal Herb
Authors: Waheed Marwa , Hussain Muhammad Bilal , Saeed Farhan , Afzaal Muhammad , Ahmed Aftab , Irfan Rushba , Akram Noor , Ahmed Faiyaz , Hailu Gebremichael Gebremedhin
Published: November 2024

Thymol is a phenol monoterpene that is naturally derived from cymene and is an isomer of carvacrol. It constitutes a significant portion (10%–64%) of the essential oils found in thyme (Thymus vulgaris L., Lamiaceae), a medicinal plant renowned for its therapeutic properties. Wild thyme is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used in cooking and medicine for a long time. In contemporary contexts, both thymol and thyme offer diverse functional applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Thymol has attracted scientific interest for its potential therapeutic applications in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Studies have explored its efficacy in treating respiratory, nervous, and cardiovascular disorders, highlighting its promising role in diverse therapeutic interventions. Additionally, this compound demonstrates antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, anti‐inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. It also shows potential as a growth enhancer and has immunomodulatory properties as well. Other discussed aspects include thymol toxicity, bioavailability, metabolism, and distribution in animals and humans. This review summarizes the most significant data regarding the beneficial effects of thyme bioactive compounds and their applications as a food preservative while taking into account the thyme plant extract and its essential oil.
Exploring Genetic Association of Tea Intake With Allergic Diseases Among European Population: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhang Jinjin , Liu Yuhan , Zhang Jiawei , Zeng Fei , Wu Yuqing , Zhang Xuexue , Zhang Daying , Zhu Mengye
Published: November 2024

Previous observational studies focused on the association of tea intake and allergic diseases. However, it is not known whether these associations are causal. We used a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study to assess the causal relationship of tea intake with the risk of allergic diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD), allergic rhinitis (AR), and allergic asthma (AA). Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) which had genetic statistical significance with tea intake were used as instrumental variables (IVs). We employed heritable IVs of tea intake from the UK Biobank, which included 447,485 samples. Sensitivity analyses were further performed using MR Egger and MR‐PRESSO. Inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the main approach. In this MR study, 40 independent SNPs were selected for tea intake. The MR analysis revealed that an increase in genetically predicted tea intake was associated with a lower risk of AD (OR = 0.709, 95% CI = 0.546–0.919, p = 0.009). Furthermore, we observed a causal effect of genetically predicted tea intake on the risk of AA (OR = 0.498, 95% CI = 0.320–0.776, p = 0.002). However, no significant causal relationship was found between genetically predicted tea intake and AR (OR = 1.008, 95% CI = 0.998–1.017, p = 0.115). Our MR analysis suggested that increased tea intake may reduce the risk of AD and AA in European population. This suggests that tea intake is likely a trigger or a prevention strategy for AD and AA.
Real‐World Use of Trazodone in Older Persons in Long Term Care Setting: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Coin Alessandra , Malara Alba , Noale Marianna , Trevisan Caterina , Devita Maria , Abbatecola Angela Marie , Gareri Pietro , Del Signore Stefania , Bellelli Giuseppe , Fumagalli Stefano , Monzani Fabio , Mossello Enrico , Volpato Stefano , Zia Gianluca , Antonelli Incalzi Raffaele ,   the GeroCovid Observational Working Group
Published: November 2024

Background

Trazodone, an antidepressant drug is also largely used in several medical contexts. Insomnia, behavioral disorders, and anxiety may be underlying symptoms for prescribing trazodone. This cross‐sectional study aims to identify reasons for trazodone prescription, assess the efficacy, as well as identify any related side effects in older persons living in long term care facilities (LTCFs).

Methods

Older adults aged ≥ 60 years, at risk of or affected with Covid‐19 and enrolled in the GeroCovid Observational study from LTCFs, and using trazodone were included. A structured questionnaire was administered to treating physicians regarding reasons for trazodone prescription, discontinuation, possible adverse events and benefits.

Results

Thirty‐seven out 74 LTCFs participating in both the GeroCovid and GeroCovid Vax studies completed the questionnaire regarding trazodone use. Of the 427 participants included in this study analysis, we found that 43% had diagnoses of dementia and depression, 33% had dementia, no behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and no depression, 14% had dementia with BPSD and no depression, and < 11% had only depression. The main reasons for trazodone prescription included agitation, insomnia, depression and anxiety. Trazodone use was reported as partially or totally effective in more than 90% of participants using the drug. Falls were the most frequent adverse event (30% of participants).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that trazodone behaves as an eclectic antidepressant that, in the clinical practice, may also be used for BPSD and insomnia, especially in older people with dementia.
Pain‐Discriminating Information Decoded From Spatiotemporal Patterns of Hemodynamic Responses Measured by fMRI in the Human Brain
Authors: Song Yingchao , Wang Xiuzhi , Su Qian , Zhao Rui , Zhang Juan , Qin Wen , Yu Chunshui , Liang Meng
Published: November 2024

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has been widely used in studying the neural mechanisms of pain in the human brain, primarily focusing on where in the brain pain‐elicited neural activities occur (i.e., the spatial distribution of pain‐related brain activities). However, the temporal dynamics of pain‐elicited hemodynamic responses (HDRs) measured by fMRI may also contain information specific to pain processing but have been largely neglected. Using high temporal resolution fMRI (TR = 0.8 s) data acquired from 62 healthy participants, in the present study we aimed to test whether pain‐distinguishing information could be decoded from the spatial pattern of the temporal dynamics (i.e., the spatiotemporal pattern) of HDRs elicited by painful stimuli. Specifically, the peak latency and the response duration were used to characterize the temporal dynamics of HDRs to painful laser stimuli and non‐painful electric stimuli, and then were compared between the two conditions (i.e., pain and no‐pain) using a voxel‐wise univariate analysis and a multivariate pattern analysis. Furthermore, we also tested whether the two temporal characteristics of pain‐elicited HDRs and their spatial patterns were associated with pain‐related behaviors. We found that the spatial patterns of HDR peak latency and response duration could successfully discriminate pain from no‐pain. Interestingly, we also observed that the Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire (PVAQ) scores were correlated with the average response duration in bilateral insula and secondary somatosensory cortex (S2) and could also be predicted from the across‐voxel spatial patterns of response durations in the middle cingulate cortex and middle frontal gyrus only during painful condition but not during non‐painful condition. These findings indicate that the spatiotemporal pattern of pain‐elicited HDRs may contain pain‐specific information and highlight the importance of studying the neural mechanisms of pain by taking advantage of the high sensitivity of fMRI to both spatial and temporal information of brain responses.
Exploring Trismus Management in Australia: A Mixed Methods Evaluation of Surveys and Interviews With Health Professionals
Authors: Charters Emma , Venchiarutti Rebecca , Dunn Masako , Clark Jonathan
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study evaluates how health care professionals manage trismus in Australia and identifies facilitators and barriers experienced by clinicians in routine patient care.

Methods

A mixed‐methods approach was used to evaluate the experience of clinicians. Medical, nursing, and allied health practitioners in Australia were invited to participate if they had treated patients with trismus in the last 5 years. Participants completed an investigator‐designed survey and were invited to participate in a semi‐structured audio‐recorded interview to explore practice in more depth. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analyzed thematically using an inductive, data‐driven approach.

Results

Fifty‐six clinicians (38 speech pathologists, 9 physiotherapists, 7 medical doctors, 1 nurse, and 1 osteopath) completed the survey, 12 of which also participated in an interview. The most common assessment tool was a commercially available measurement tool (Therabite or Orastretch), the most common treatment approach was stacked tongue depressors, and the most common exercise regimen was a 30‐ s stretch 25 times per day. Common barriers to trismus management included the high cost of devices, lack of clinical experience, and lack of training opportunities outside their institution. Clinician‐perceived facilitators were different modes of information provision and time to consider the exercise instructions and rationale. Several clinicians relied on telehealth to reach patients in remote locations and improve efficiency.

Conclusion

A range of clinicians treat trismus arising from a variety of conditions. Training opportunities are critical for clinicians to develop and extend their skills in assessing and treating trismus.

Impact Statement

The morbidity associated with trismus, and the absence of a clinical guideline or consensus document warrants careful consideration as to the translation of evidence into the clinical context.
Canine dilated cardiomyopathy. Part 1: screening, diagnosis and management of preclinical DCM
Authors: Davis William , Crosland Andrew , Dukes‐McEwan Joanna
Published: November 2024

Background: Canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease of the myocardium classically characterised by progressive eccentric hypertrophy (dilation) and systolic dysfunction of typically the left ventricle; however, DCM can also manifest as electrical abnormalities resulting in arrhythmic forms of the disease. The aetiology is idiopathic and there is often a genetic basis, which explains its over‐representation in certain breeds. Preclinical DCM describes the usually protracted period where an individual dog experiences structural changes over several years, or an arrhythmia (in specific breeds) that meet criteria for diagnosis without outward clinical signs of disease. Detection of this phase is crucial to facilitate early intervention with medical treatment, close monitoring and prognostication. Clinical DCM describes progression to congestive heart failure; the management of this will be discussed in the second part of this series, to be published in a subsequent issue of In Practice.

Aim of the article: This article discusses case selection for DCM screening, including the utility of cardiac biomarkers. It outlines the echocardiographic diagnostic criteria for preclinical DCM, as well as the identification of arrhythmias that may be primary in nature or associated with the presence of cardiac remodelling. The medical management of preclinical DCM and associated arrhythmias is also discussed.
Positive welfare in dairy cows: role of the vet
Authors: Russell Alison , Randall Laura , Green Martin , Thompson Jake
Published: November 2024

Background: The livestock industry should ensure positive welfare for animals within its care, over and above the five freedoms. It is important that the general public approves of conditions that livestock inhabit for them to continue to purchase these products and feel positive in doing so. As custodians of animal health and welfare, veterinary clinicians must be equipped to advocate for improvements to welfare, as well as conventional herd health and individual case approaches. The environment an animal inhabits will impact its heath and production, but improvements to living conditions will also support positive welfare. Assessment of the environment is an essential step to identify areas to improve in the system; this will allow for subsequent advances in overall living conditions.

Aim of the article: This article provides an overview of positive welfare and assessment in dairy cows and guides production animal vets on how to undertake evaluations on farm. It also informs practitioners on developments in the research of positive welfare in dairy cows and discusses how positive welfare opportunities can be provided on farms.
Electrical testing of medical devices: where PAT testing is not enough
Authors: Brown Scott
Published: November 2024

Veterinary practices use a number of different types of medical devices, from operating tables to electrosurgical units and infusion pumps. These devices are connected to the animal by a variety of cables, tubes or transducers. We know that electrical safety testing is a requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and, for the most part, this is addressed through portable appliance testing (PAT). PAT is designed to check the safety of domestic and office equipment (eg, kettles, laptops and so on), where there is minimal connection. However, with medical equipment, we are making deliberate connections to the animal. As such, specific, more complex electrical safety testing is required. This article explores the requirements and what the additional tests are used for.