bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Vascular Risk Factors with the Risk of Parkinson’s Disease among Stroke Survivors—A Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Yoon Seo Yeon , Moon Hyun Im , Jung Jin Hyung , Lee Sang Chul , Han Kyungdo , Kim Yong Wook
Published: December 2024

Background

Stroke survivors usually have many vascular risk factors (VRFs), and recent studies have reported the association of VRFs with cognitive decline among stroke survivors, which are also associated with PD risk. Therefore, we aimed to investigate how VRFs influenced the risk of PD occurrence in individuals with stroke.

Methods

The Korean National Health Insurance Service database was used. We selected individuals who experienced new-onset stroke (ICD-10: I60-I64) between 2008 and 2016 and followed up until 2019. PD was diagnosed according to ICD-10 code G20 and rare and intractable disease registration code V124. Lifestyle factors were collected using self-reported questionnaires, and comorbidities were defined based on ICD-10 codes, medication, and laboratory and anthropometric findings. Cox proportional hazard analyses were conducted to evaluate the association of VRFs with PD incidence among stroke survivors.

Results

Among 284,799 stroke survivors, 3,274 cases of PD were reported over a median follow-up period of 5.04 years. In individuals with a history of stroke, smoking (former smoking, hazard ratio (HR) = 0.80, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.72–0.88; current smoking, HR = 0.66, 95% CI, 0.58–0.76) and alcohol consumption (moderate drinking, HR = 0.83, 95% CI, 0.75–0.91; heavy drinking, HR = 0.74, 95% CI, 0.59–0.94) were associated with a decreased risk of PD. Physically active individuals who had a stroke showed a reduced trend for PD occurrence (P= 0.0508). As for the association between comorbidities and the PD risk, the PD risk increased among stroke survivors with diabetes mellitus (P for trend <.001), particularly in those with a duration of diabetes mellitus of ≥5 years (HR = 1.38, 95% CI, 1.25–1.52).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that VRFs are associated with PD occurrence among stroke survivors. Understanding and managing VRFs in relation to PD risk is needed for disease management after stroke.
Store-operated Ca2+entry is involved in endothelium-to-mesenchymal transition in lung vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Babicheva Aleksandra , Elmadbouh Ibrahim , Song Shanshan , Thompson Michael , Powers Ryan , Jain Pritesh P. , Izadi Amin , Chen Jiyuan , Yung Lauren , Parmisano Sophia , Paquin Cole , Wang Wei-Ting , Chen Yuqin , Wang Ting , Alotaibi Mona , Shyy John Y.-J. , Thistlethwaite Patricia A. , Wang Jian , Makino Ayako , Prakash Y.S. , Pabelick Christina M. , Yuan Jason X.-J.
Published: December 2024

Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a biological process that converts endothelial cells to mesenchymal cells with increased proliferative and migrative abilities. EndMT has been implicated in the development of pulmonary vascular remodeling in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a fatal and progressive lung vascular disease. Transforming growth factor β1(TGF-β1), an inflammatory cytokine, is known to induce EndMT in many types of endothelial cells including lung vascular endothelial cells (LVEC). An increase in cytosolic free Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) is a major stimulus for cellular proliferation and phenotypic transition, but it is unknown whether Ca2+signaling is involved in EndMT. In this study we tested the hypothesis that TGF-β1-induced EndMT in human LVEC is Ca2+-dependent. Treatment of LVEC with TGF-β1for 5-7 days resulted in increase in SNAI1/2 expression, induction of EndMT, upregulation of STIM/Orai1 and enhancement of store-operated Ca2+entry (SOCE). Removal (or chelation) of extracellular or intracellular Ca2+with EGTA or BAPTA-AM respectively abolished EndMT in response to TGF-β1. Moreover, EGTA diminished TGF-β1-induced increase in SNAI in a dose-dependent manner. Knockdown of either STIM1 or Orai1 was sufficient to prevent TGF-β-mediated increase in SNAI1/2 and EndMT, but did not rescue the continuous adherent junctions. Blockade of Orai1 channels by AnCoA4 inhibited TGF-β-mediated EndMT and restored PECAM1-positive continuous adherent junctions. In conclusion, intracellular Ca2+signaling plays a critical role in TGF-β-associated EndMT through enhanced SOCE and STIM1-Orai1 interaction. Thus, targeting Ca2+signaling pathways regulating EndMT may be a novel therapeutic approach to treat PAH and other forms of pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension.

New & Noteworthy

EndMT has been reported to contribute to the pathogenesis of PH. In this study we aimed to determine the role of Ca2+signaling in the development of EndMT in human lung vascular endothelial cells. Our data suggest that TGF-β1requires store-operated Ca2+entry through STIM1/Orai channels to induce SNAI-mediated EndMT. For the first time we demonstrated that TGF-β1-induced EndMT is Ca2+-dependent event while inhibition of STIM1/Orai interaction attenuated EndMT in response to TGF-β1.
Interaction of plant-derived metabolites and rhizobiome functions enhances drought stress tolerance
Authors: Kazarina Anna , Sarkar Soumyadev , Adams Bryttan , Rodela Leslie , Pogranichny Sophia , Hartung Eli , Johnson Loretta , Jumpponen Ari M , Lee Sonny T M
Published: December 2024

Background: Plants evolved alongside microbes, enabling plants to better cope with abiotic and biotic stresses. The interactions between plant roots and local soil microbes are critical for environmental adaptation and plant health. Plants actively regulate the microbial community composition in their rhizospheres to recruit specific microorganisms that enhance their fitness in the ecosystem they inhabit. This study builds on prior research suggesting that plants have a'home field advantage'in recruiting microbes unique in their home environment, reflecting mutual recognition and the targeted recruitment of microbes.Results: Using gene- and genome-centric approaches, we assessed the functional potential of root-associated microbes and profiled the host metabolites to uncover the metabolic outputs potentially regulating host-microbe interactions. Our results showed that plants adapted to drier environments experience less stress, producing fewer stress-related metabolites and impacting the recruitment of microbes with genes linked to stress relief pathways. In particular, plant-derived trimethyllysine was highly associated with microbial populations capable of improving nutrient uptake, producing plant growth-promoting compounds, and modulating stress responses.Conclusion: This study highlights the critical interplay between host exudates and microbial substrate uptake as the primary mechanism of rhizosphere assembly. We demonstrate that plants actively produce metabolites to recruit microbial populations with the functional potential to enhance hosts' ability to thrive in a stressful environment. This research provides insights into the mechanisms of plant-microbe communication, rhizosphere recruitment, and the complex interplay of plant-microbe interactions. Furthermore, it highlights promising avenues for manipulating rhizosphere microbiomes to support conservation agriculture in the face of climate change.
Personality predicts dispersal and settlement in a novel habitat – a mesocosm experiment
Authors: Gismann J. , Groothuis T.G.G , Weissing F.J. , Nicolaus M.
Published: December 2024

Studying the relationship between dispersal tendencies and personality, or ‘dispersal syndromes’, under ecologically relevant conditions is challenging, especially in fish. Laboratory studies lack environmental complexity and scale, while field-based approaches are often unfeasible. We here mimicked dispersal events; encompassing all three phases of dispersal (departure, transience, settlement) in a large experimental mesocosm containing a gradient of low- and high-quality breeding sites. Using Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT)-tagged three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus), we remotely monitored the movements and behaviours of two groups, each consisting of 40 individuals of known personality, continuously over two weeks. We tested whether personality variation explained differences in departure timing, transience movements, settlement success and spatial distribution along the environmental gradient. We found evidence for a dispersal syndrome. Specifically, more active/aggressive individuals dispersed quicker in the mesocosm, spent more time on territories and collected more eggs. However, we did not detect phenotype-environment correlations. Our findings highlight the importance of personality-dependent dispersal, with specific behavioural types driving dispersal and settlement success. Furthermore, our mesocosm setup provides unique insights into dispersal dynamics in a system where detailed observations in all dispersal stages are rare. Despite limitations, behavioural experiments in mesocosms serve as a valuable bridge between laboratory and natural systems.
Fertilization impacts microbiomes along the grassland trophic chain
Authors: Jetter Karoline , Jani Kunal , Wilhelm Kerstin , Stehle Ulrike , Chamedjeu Rostand , Riedel Christian , Wilfert Lena , Schäfer Patrick , Sommer Simone
Published: December 2024

Agricultural grasslands are often managed intensively, influencing soil properties and microbial communities. This can result in significant community changes and challenges to health and function at different levels along the trophic chain. This study investigates how fertilization affects microbial communities in grassland ecosystems in multiple connected trophic compartments. Shifts in microbial composition occurred in response to fertilization with effects being host-dependent and changes being more pronounced in belowground compartments. Strong interactions between trophic levels facilitated transmission of bacterial genera from soil and roots to higher trophic levels. Pig slurry- derived microbes were found in all compartments, but their low prevalence suggests an indirect effect of fertilisation, primarily due to changes in nutrient availability. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering both individual compartments and trophic interactions in ecosystems to fully understand the effects of anthropogenic disturbances on environmental and human health.
Disruption of basal CXCR4 oligomers impairs oncogenic properties in lymphoid neoplasms
Authors: Mobach Simon , Bergkamp Nick D. , Ma Ziliang , Haselager Marco V. , Anbuhl Stephanie M. , Jurriens Daphne , Bor Jelle van den , Wang Ziming , Crudden Caitrin , Roos Jamie L. , Perez Almeria Claudia V. , Boergonje Rick A. , Lohse Martin J. , Bosma Reggie , Eldering Eric , Siderius Marco , Wu Wei , Spaargaren Marcel , Tonino Sanne H. , Kater Arnon P. , Smit Martine J. , Heukers Raimond
Published: December 2024

The chemokine receptor CXCR4 is overexpressed in many cancers and contributes to pathogenesis, disease progression, and resistance to therapies. CXCR4 is known to form oligomers, but the potential functional relevance in malignancies remain elusive. Using a newly established nanobody-based BRET method, we demonstrate that oligomerization of endogenous CXCR4 on lymphoid cancer cell lines correlates with enhanced expression levels. Specific disruption of CXCR4 oligomers reduced basal cell migration and pro-survival signaling via changes in the phosphoproteome, indicating the existence of basal CXCR4-oligomer-mediated signaling. Oligomer disruption also inhibited growth of primary CLL 3D spheroids and sensitized primary malignant cells to clinically used Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax. Given its limited efficacy in some patients and the ability to develop resistance, sensitizing malignant B-cells to venetoclax is of clinical relevance. Taken together, we established a new, non-canonical and critical role for CXCR4 oligomers in lymphoid neoplasms and demonstrated that selective targeting thereof has clinical potential.

Significance statement

Class A GPCRs, including the chemokine receptor CXCR4, can form oligomers, but their functional relevance remains poorly understood. This study provides evidence for the role of basal CXCR4 oligomers in lymphoid neoplasms, where they drive pro-survival signaling, migration, and tumor growth. We use a novel nanobody-based BRET method to demonstrate that endogenous CXCR4 constitutively oligomerizes in lymphoid cancer cells, correlating with receptor expression levels. Pharmacological disruption of these oligomers reduces tumor- associated signaling, impairs spheroid growth, and sensitizes patient-derived malignant cells to the apoptosis-inducing drug Venetoclax. Since CXCR4 is frequently overexpressed and potentially clustered in various malignancies, this work offers broader implications for enhancing treatment efficacy, overcoming drug resistance, and potentially reducing side effects across multiple cancer types.
Isolation and manipulation of meiotic spindles from mouse oocytes reveals migration regulated by pulling force during asymmetric division
Authors: Liu Ning , Kawamura Ryo , Qiang Wenan , Balboula Ahmed , Marko John F , Qiao Huanyu
Published: December 2024

Spindles are essential for accurate chromosome segregation in all eukaryotic cells. This study presents a novel approach for isolating fresh mammalian spindles from mouse oocytes, establishing it as a valuablein vitromodel system for a wide range of possible studies. Our method enables the investigation of the physical properties and migration force of meiotic spindles in oocytes. We found that the spindle length decreases upon isolation from the oocyte. Combining this observation with direct measurements of spindle mechanics, we examined the forces governing spindle migration during oocyte asymmetric division. Our findings suggest that the spindle migration is regulated by a pulling force and a net tensile force of approximately 680 pN is applied to the spindlein vivoduring the migration process. This method, unveiling insights into spindle dynamics, holds promise as a robust model for future investigations into spindle formation and chromosome separation. We also found that the same approach could not isolate spindles from somatic cells, indicative of mammalian oocytes having a unique spindle organization amenable to isolation.

Ning et al. describe an innovative method to isolate fresh mammalian spindles at various stages from oocytes, enabling studies of spindlein vitro. The findings reveal that the spindle migration is regulated by a pulling force and such migration generates stretching tension in the spindle approximately 680 pN.
Spatial single-cell Organellomics reveals nutrient dependent hepatocyte heterogeneity and predicts pathophysiological statusin vivo
Authors: Hillsley Alexander , Adhikari Raghabendra , Johnson Alana Dowdell , Espinosa-Medina Isabel , Funke Jan , Feliciano Daniel
Published: December 2024

Cellular heterogeneity within complex tissues and organs is essential to coordinate biological processes across biological scales. The effect of local cues and tissue microenvironments on cell heterogeneity has been mainly studied at the transcriptional level. However, it is within the subcellular scale - the organelles - that lays the machinery to conduct most metabolic reactions and maintain cells alive, ensuring proper tissue function. How changes in subcellular organization under different microenvironments define the functional diversity of cells within organs remains largely unexplored. Here we determine how organelles adapt to different microenvironments using the mouse liver as model system, in combination with computational approaches and machine-learning. To understand organelle adaptation in response to changing nutritional conditions, we analyzed 3D fluorescent microscopy volumes of liver samples labeled to simultaneously visualize mitochondria, peroxisomes, and lipid droplets from mice subjected to different diets: a control diet, a high-fat diet, and a control diet plus fasting. ACellposebased pipeline was implemented for cell and organelle segmentation, which allowed us to measure ~100 different organelle metrics and helped us define subcellular architectures in liver samples at the single cell level. Our results showed that hepatocytes display distinct subcellular architectures within different regions of the liver-close to the central vein, in the middle region, and near the portal vein- and across the various diet groups, thus reflecting their adaptation to specific nutritional inputs. Principal component analysis and clustering of hepatocytes based on organelle signatures revealed 12 different hepatocyte categories within the different experimental groups, highlighting a reduction in hepatocyte heterogeneity under nutritional perturbations. Finally, using single cell organelle signatures exclusively, we generated machine learning models that were able to predict with high accuracy different hepatocyte categories, diet groups, and the stages of MASLD. Our results demonstrate how organelle signatures can be used as hallmarks to define hepatocyte heterogeneity and their adaptation to different nutritional conditions. In the future, our strategy, which combines subcellular resolution imaging of liver volumes and machine learning, could help establish protocols to better define and predict liver disease progression.
SubCell: Vision foundation models for microscopy capture single-cell biology
Authors: Gupta Ankit , Wefers Zoe , Kahnert Konstantin , Hansen Jan N. , Leineweber Will , Cesnik Anthony , Lu Dan , Axelsson Ulrika , Ballllosera Navarro Frederic , Karaletsos Theofanis , Lundberg Emma
Published: December 2024

Cells are the functional units of life, and the wide range of biological functions they perform are orchestrated by myriad molecular interactions within an intricate subcellular architecture. This cellular organization and functionality can be studied with microscopy at scale, and machine learning has become a powerful tool for interpreting the rich information in these images. Here, we introduce SubCell, a suite of self-supervised deep learning models for fluorescence microscopy that are designed to accurately capture cellular morphology, protein localization, cellular organization, and biological function beyond what humans can readily perceive. These models were trained using the metadata-rich, proteome-wide image collection from the Human Protein Atlas. SubCell outperforms state-of-the-art methods across a variety of tasks relevant to single-cell biology. Remarkably, SubCell generalizes to other fluorescence microscopy datasets without any finetuning, including dataset of drug-perturbed cells, where SubCell accurately predicts drug perturbations of cancer cells and mechanisms of action. Finally, we construct the first proteome-wide hierarchical map of proteome organization that is directly learned from image data. This vision-based multiscale cell map defines cellular subsystems with large protein-complex resolution, reveals proteins with similar functions, and distinguishes dynamic and stable behaviors within cellular compartments. In conclusion, SubCell enables deep image-driven representations of cellular architecture applicable across diverse biological contexts and datasets.
Intraoperative superb microvascular ultrasound imaging in glioma: novel quantitative analysis correlates with tumour grade
Authors: Dixon Luke , Weld Alistair , Bhagawati Dolin , Patel Neekhil , Giannarou Stamatia , Grech-Sollars Matthew , Lim Adrian , Camp Sophie
Published: December 2024

Accurate grading of gliomas is critical to guide therapy and predict prognosis. The presence of microvascular proliferation is a hallmark feature of high grade gliomas which traditionally requires targeted surgical biopsy of representative tissue. Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) is a novel high resolution Doppler ultrasound technique which can uniquely define the microvascular architecture of whole tumours. We examined both qualitative and quantitative vascular features of gliomas captured with SMI, analysing flow signal density, vessel number, branching points, curvature, vessel angle deviation, fractal dimension, and entropy. Results indicate that high-grade gliomas exhibit significantly greater vascular complexity and disorganisation, with increased fractal dimension and entropy, correlating with known histopathological markers of aggressive angiogenesis. The integrated ROC model achieved high accuracy (AUC = 0.95), highlighting SMI’s potential as a non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic tool. While further validation with larger datasets is required, this study opens avenues for SMI in glioma management, supporting intraoperative decision-making and informing future prognosis.
Extracellular Vesicles as Biomarkers for Steatosis Stages in MASLD Patients: an Algorithmic Approach Using Explainable Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Trifylli Eleni Myrto , Angelakis Athanasios , Kriebardis Anastasios G. , Papadopoulos Nikolaos , Fortis Sotirios P. , Pantazatou Vasiliki , Koskinas Ioannis , Kranidioti Hariklia , Koustas Evangelos , Sarantis Panagiotis , Manolakopoulos Spilios , Deutsch Melanie
Published: December 2024

Background & Aims

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as NAFLD, is a leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Current diagnostic methods, including liver biopsies, are invasive and have significant limitations, emphasizing the need for non-invasive alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate extracellular vesicles (EV) as biomarkers for diagnosing and staging steatosis in MASLD patients, utilizing machine learning (ML) and explainable artificial intelligence (XAI).

Methods

This prospective, single-center cohort study was conducted at the GI-Liver Unit, Hippocration General Hospital, Athens. It included 76 MASLD patients with ultrasound-confirmed steatosis and at least one cardiometabolic risk factor. Patients underwent transient elastography for steatosis and fibrosis staging and blood sampling for EV analysis using nanoparticle tracking. Twenty machine learning models were developed. Six to distinguish non-steatosis (S0) from steatosis (S1-S3), and fourteen to identify severe steatosis (S3). Models incorporated EV measurements (size and concentration), anthropomorphic and clinical features, with performance evaluated using AUROC and SHAP-based interpretability methods.

Results

The CB-C1a model achieved, on average on 10 random splits of 5-fold cross validation (5CV) of the train set, an AUROC of 0.71/0.86 (train/test) for distinguishing S0 from S1-S3 steatosis stages, relying on EV alone. The CB-C2h-21 model identified severe steatosis (S3), on average on 10 random splits of 3-fold cross validation (3CV) of the train set, with an AUROC of 0.81/1.00 (train/test), demonstrating superior performance when combining EV with anthropomorphic and clinical features such as diabetes and advanced fibrosis. Key EV features, including mean size and concentration, were identified as important predictors. SHAP analysis highlighted complex non-linear relationships between features and steatosis staging.

Conclusions

EV are promising non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosing and staging MASLD. The integration of ML-enhanced EV analysis with clinical features offers a scalable, patient-friendly alternative to invasive liver biopsies, advancing precision in MASLD management. Further research should refine these methods for broader clinical application.

Abstract Figure
Temporal and Spatial Characterization of CUL3KLHL20-driven Targeted Degradation of BET family, BRD Proteins by the Macrocycle-based Degrader BTR2004
Authors: Fechtmeyer Phoebe H. , Yeh Johannes T.-H.
Published: December 2024

Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is a promising new therapeutic modality that leverages the endogenous cellular protein degradation machinery of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) to degrade selected proteins. Recently, we developed a synthetic macrocycle ligand to recruit CUL3KLHL20E3 ligase for TPD. Using this KLHL20 ligand, we constructed the PROTAC BTR2004, which demonstrated potent degradation of BET family proteins BRD 2, 3, and 4. As the TPD field expands, it is important to understand the cellular and biochemical properties of all utilized E3 ligases. Herein we report the temporal and spatial processes of BTR2004-facilitated BET family protein degradation by KLHL20: The target protein degradation kinetics, BTR2004 intracellular activity half-life, and the onset of BTR2004 cell permeabilization. Employing proximity ligation and confocal microscopy techniques, we also illustrate the subcellular location of the ternary complex assembly upon BTR2004 treatment. These characterizations provide further insight into the processes that govern TPD and features that could be incorporated when designing future PROTAC molecules.
Nitric oxide regulates phagocytosis through S-nitrosylation of Rab5
Authors: Hagiwara Makoto , Tada Hiroyuki , Matsushita Kenji
Published: December 2024

Phagocytosis is mediated mainly by immune cells, such as macrophages, monocytes and neutrophils, that function to clear large pathogens including bacteria. The small GTP-binding protein Rab5 is crucial for clathrin-dependent endocytosis as well as phagocytosis. However, the role and mechanism of Rab5 activation during phagocytosis are poorly understood. Here we report that nitric oxide (NO), a novel regulator of Rab5, regulates phagocytosis through S-nitrosylation of Rab5. NO can promote phagocytosis by activating Rab5 in cultured cells, and it potently S-nitrosylates active Rab5 compared to inactive Rab5. Moreover, we demonstrate that two cysteine residues in the C terminus of Rab5 are S-nitrosylated and are important for phagocytosis. Experiments involving mice also showed that NO activates Rab5 and increases levels of S-nitrosylated Rab5 and that NO is involved in phagocytic bacterial clearance mediated by peritoneal macrophages. These data suggest that NO promotes S-nitrosylation of Rab5 to act as a novel Rab5 activator and a key regulator of phagocytosis.

Highlights

NO promotes phagocytosis

NO directly activates Rab5 and increases Rab5 S-nitrosylation

S-nitrosylation C-terminal Rab5 cysteines residues is involved in phagocytosis

NO increases Rab5 S-nitrosylation and activity to promote bacterial clearance in vivo
Antifungal activity of protamine
Authors: Jeyarajan Sivakumar , Kumarasamy Anbarasu
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are important innate defense molecules having wide spectrum of bioactivities like antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic and antiviral activities. The primary role of AMPs is to exert cytotoxicity on the invading pathogenic microorganisms and serve as immune modulators in higher organisms. Protamine is a polycationic peptide found in the nuclei of sperm in different vertebrate species has also antimicrobial activities. Protamine is thought to disrupt the cytoplasmic membrane caused by electrostatic interactions between the highly positively charged molecule and the negatively charged microbial cell surfaces. In addition to this, it is involved in wound healing activity and recruit leucocytes and modulators during inflammation. The present study proposes to investigate the anticandidal effects of protamine on clinical isolates ofCandidaspp. For experimental evaluation of anticandidal and antibiofilm activity, Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined againstCandida albicans, Candida tropicalisandCandida krusei. Protamine inhibited the growth of all the testedCandidaspp. pathogens in respective MIC of 16 μg ml-1, 32 μg ml-1and 256 μg mg-1. After MIC determination, the mechanism of action was evaluated by assessing structural and cellular biochemical changes. The structural changes were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) after treatingC. albicanswith protamine and SEM images clearly showed membrane rupture indicating that the peptide targets the membrane. Biochemical changes like induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) inside the cells which is essential for cell death was detected by staining the cells with 2′,7′-Dichlorofluorescin diacetate which turns to green colour in response to oxidative metabolism by esterification reaction. Protamine increased ROS production in Candidacells. These results suggested that protamine could be a lead compound for preparation of biomaterials for anticandidal treatment.
ESG factors affecting the asset sustainability of infrastructure REITs in China
Authors: Gong Enqin , Wang Yousong , Zhou Xiaowei , Duan Jiajun
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) can enhance the sustainable value and profitability of assets by improving environmental responsibility, social benefits and governance quality. However, there is a lack of research on the ESG aspects of the asset sustainability of infrastructure Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), particularly in terms of how ESG affects asset sustainability and their intrinsic relationships. Therefore, this study aims to explore the ESG factors affecting the asset sustainability of infrastructure REITs and their intrinsic linkages, in order to enhance the long-term sustainability of the asset.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze the relationship between ESG factors and the sustainability of infrastructure REITs, through a comprehensive literature review and questionnaire survey to collect data. This method aims to provide a quantitative analysis framework to assess the impact strength and interactions of these factors.

Findings

The 11 ESG factors positively influence the sustainability of infrastructure assets. Specifically, carbon emission management, information disclosure and infrastructure asset management have the most substantial impacts, with path coefficients of 0.830, 0.814 and 0.817, respectively. Measures such as optimizing resource use, enhancing transparency and improving operational efficiency contribute to increased asset sustainability. Also, interviews indicate that asset managers and corporate executives with overseas educational backgrounds play a crucial role in the ESG management of infrastructure assets. Sustainability can be enhanced by promoting sustainable technologies and enhancing cross-cultural communication.

Practical implications

The results offer guidance for infrastructure REIT managers and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of strengthening specific ESG practices to enhance sustainability. This provides an empirical basis for optimizing ESG policies and practices, helping to advance infrastructure REITs towards more sustainable development directions.

Originality/value

This study offers new insights into the field of ESG for infrastructure REITs in China by providing specific analysis of ESG factors and applying SEM. The originality of this study lies in its deep exploration of the specific impact factors within the ESG dimensions and quantifying their relationship with sustainability, offering strong scientific support for the sustainable development practices of infrastructure REIT.
The key determinants of digital repayment performance of ultra-micro entrepreneurs in Indonesia microfinance institution
Authors: Rohmana Lailiya , Wulandari Permata
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to determine the factors that impact the success of loan repayment in the ultra-micro (UMi) program in Indonesia through the application of ordinal logistic regression. Several microfinance institutions in Indonesia have already adopted digital applications to optimize their daily operational procedures, hence facilitating efficient operations. However, the success and sustainability of microfinance institutions may be proven by their capacity to increase profitability and boost the repayment track record of borrowers. The repayment performance is categorized into five levels: collectability-1 (pass), collectability-2 (special mention), collectability-3 (substandard), collectability-4 (doubtful) and collectability-5 (loss).

Design/methodology/approach

A sample size of 600 was used to collect data from a non-banking financial business (NBFC) in Indonesia. The data were collected from historical transactions carried out in different locations around Indonesia 20 provinces in total.

Findings

The research illustrates those variables such as income, loan size, repaid scheme, loan tenure and business sector significantly influence the performance of loan repayment. However, this study clarifies that the probability of a borrower not defaulting on their loan is affected by the flexibility of the repayment method for making the payment.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that financial institutions in Indonesia should reevaluate their loan policy for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and develop a more flexible credit system that considers the borrower’s characteristics.

Originality/value

This study enhances the current body of research on the digital repayment performance of ultra-micro enterprises in Indonesia. This observation has significance in the context of policy decision-making and policy reversal, as it underscores the need to promote and implement skill development initiatives nationwide to foster the growth of sustainable UMi enterprises. The performed research recognizes the need to take into account the comprehensive assessment of digital repayment performance. Consequently, it offered valuable information on the borrowers, loans and business characteristics of ultra-micro enterprises.
The role of promotions and other factors in attendance for minor league baseball – a study across all levels of play
Authors: Paul Rodney , Baris Daniel , Kuchenbaur Hunter , Soos Jonah
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The main purpose of this research was to determine what types of promotions increase Minor League Baseball attendance across all of the official leagues. The secondary purpose was to ascertain the role of other control variables such as win percentage, weather, days of the week, start time and city demographics. The research also includes a grouping of cities through k-means clustering to better understand what types of promotions work in what cities.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered on all the Minor League Baseball teams and their respective cities. Regression models were run to test for the role of individual promotions (structured as dummy variables) and other controls. One model specification used city demographic variables, one used city fixed effects rather than city demographics and the final specification used k-means clustering to separate cities into distinct groups.

Findings

Promotions generally were found to increase attendance, although there were differences across levels of play. K-means clustering helped with the grouping of cities to ascertain which types of promotions were beneficial when comparing large metropolitan areas to high-income cities.

Research limitations/implications

Promotions were grouped into common categories, although some were difficult to classify (or were infrequent), so a miscellaneous promotions category was included to capture these promotions in Minor League Baseball.

Practical implications

The findings of this research are beneficial to those designing promotional schedules for individual teams. It also is beneficial to the leagues as the findings have implications as it relates to what fans desire to see when attending minor league games.

Originality/value

The originality in this work is the collection of all Minor League Baseball attendance, city information and promotional information across the different levels of play (AAA, AA, High-A and A). Using different model specifications and groupings, including k-means clustering to match similar cities, successful promotions were identified.
The Characteristics and Clinical Analysis of Lorenz Plot of Neonatal Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: Zheng Fei , Yu Tingting , Wei Xin , Wen Jie , Li Hualian
Published: December 2024

Background

Lorenz plot (LP) analysis enhances the accuracy of arrhythmia diagnosis and serves as an attractive diagnostic tool for patients with arrhythmias. We explored the utility of the LP in the classification of various types of neonatal atrial tachycardia and evaluated the treatment effects and prognosis.

Methods

Ninety‐six newborns with atrial tachycardia had their dynamic electrocardiograms and clinical data collected between January 2018 and June 2023. They were divided into different atrial tachycardia groups based on the morphological characteristics of the LP. The clinical features of the patients in each group were also analyzed.

Results

Neonates were divided into multifocal (30%, 31.25%), parasystole (19%, 19.79%), and atrial premature beat‐induced atrial tachycardia (47%, 48.96%) groups. It was demonstrated that the prevalence of cardiac structural abnormalities, viral infections, myocardial injury, and heart failure was significantly increased in the multifocal atrial tachycardia group.

Conclusions

The analysis of distinct LP patterns allowed for the identification and classification of neonatal atrial tachycardia, which could improve the diagnostic efficiency of neonatal atrial tachycardia and assist clinical physicians in making better management strategies based on the type of atrial tachycardia.
Computerized QT and QTc Measurements From Bedside ICU Monitors Are Similar to Those Derived From a Standard 12‐Lead ECG
Authors: Murray Arthur , Ho Karolina , Hoffmann Thomas J. , Ganesh Gopika K. , Prasad Shelvin , Berger Sarah , Sandoval Cass , Larsen Amy , Schell‐Chaple Hildy , Pelter Michele M.
Published: December 2024

QT/QTc prolongation is associated with an increased risk for torsade de pointes. In at‐risk hospitalized patients, it is common to obtain a standard 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) for this assessment, but this interrupts patient care. Our hospital recently introduced bedside monitors in the intensive care unit (ICU) with continuous QT/QTc software. However, only four of the seven available ECG leads are used.

Purpose

Evaluate the agreement between computerized QT/QTc measurements from the bedside monitor (four leads) and a time‐matched standard 12‐lead ECG.

Design

Prospective observational study in three adult ICUs.

Methods

QT/QTc measurements were obtained from a convenience sample, and the two ECG types were ≤ 30 min apart. Agreement was evaluated using Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

A total of 120 patients were evaluated for inclusion, and 60 (50%) had a 12‐lead ECG for comparison. The mean bias difference for QT measurements was not statistically different (β = −2.47, 95% CI = 5.50 to −11.05; p = 0.44; limits of agreement (LOA) = −64.37 to 59.44). Similar non‐statistical differences were observed for QTc (β = −3.20, 95% CI = 5.50 to −11.05; p = 0.44; LOA = −67.43 to 61.03).

Conclusion

There was good agreement for both QT and QTc measurements between the two methods. These pilot data are promising and suggest QT/QTc measurements from bedside monitors (four leads) may be an acceptable alternative to obtaining additional standard 12‐lead ECGs. Given that half of the ICU patients screened did not have a 12‐lead ECG recorded, bedside monitor QT/QTc's could identify at‐risk patients. However, an evaluation in a larger sample and non‐ICU patients is warranted.
Transient Left Bundle Branch Block Induced Acute Heart Failure as a Consequence of Ramus Intermedius Occlusion
Authors: Eren Mehmet , Velibey Yalcin
Published: December 2024

We present a case of acute decompensated heart failure due to transient left bundle branch block (LBBB) as a consequence of a ramus intermedius (RI) occlusion. A 63‐year‐old woman was admitted with acute onset of typical chest pain and pulmonary edema, a newly diagnosed LBBB and left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction. A coronary angiogram demonstrated critical stenosis at the osteal segment of RI. After successful coronary revascularization, LBBB was completely resolved, with an improvement in LV systolic function and symptoms. In terms of anatomical blood supply of the left bundle branch, transient LBBB as a consequence of an RI occlusion is unusual.
Work, affection, and moral economy among Albanian domestic workers in Greece
Authors: Xhaho Armela , Çaro Erka , Bailey Ajay
Published: December 2024

The moral economy framework sheds light on how economic activities and workplace practices are influenced and structured by moral sentiments, norms, and social relations. The concept of the moral economy is particularly applicable to domestic laboring spheres, where employee‐employer exchanges and relations are not merely contractual, but are embedded in moral and cultural values. This article builds on moral economy theory to analyze informal relations and workplace practices among 19 Albanian domestic workers in Greece and their employers. The study reveals how social and economic relations are constructed and shaped through the emotional and intimate nature of domestic work, as well as through moral/ethical sentiments, norms, and behaviors. The everyday working practices and emotional attachments between the employers and the employees seemed to reproduce, construct, and rebuild home‐like settings, kin relations, and feelings. While such emotional affection impacted some women positively, other women considered it a burden because of their inability to claim their rights.
Combination of dynamic TOPMODEL and machine learning techniques to improve runoff prediction
Authors: Huang Pin‐Chun
Published: December 2024

TOPMODEL has been widely employed in hydrology research, undergoing continuous modifications to broaden its practical applicability and enhance its simulation accuracy. To encompass spatial discretization, diffusion‐wave characteristics, depth‐dependent flow velocity, and flux estimation in the unsaturated zone, a generalized dynamic TOPMODEL is developed by introducing a greater number of physical parameters. The present study aims to evaluate the optimal combination of these parameters within the dynamic TOPMODEL framework using machine learning techniques to improve the accuracy of runoff predictions and bolster the model's reliability. An innovative training method is suggested to elevate the model's performance by integrating the Long Short‐Term Memory (LSTM) algorithm and a topological classification, which relies on the evolving spatial distribution of runoff conditions during floods. The research findings show that the proposed methodology achieves the lowest mean relative error (MRE) at 0.106, the highest Pearson correlation coefficient (PC) at 0.938, and the highest coefficient of determination (R2) at 0.906 among the three dynamic TOPMODEL types adopted in this study. The effective implementation of a case study in a river basin showcases the feasibility of the proposed method in conjunction with dynamic TOPMODEL and underscores the importance of employing the suggested training procedure.
Clinical Protocol Effects With LED Photobiomodulation for Reducing Adipose Tissue in the Abdomen Region
Authors: Nishioka Michele Akemi , Brassolatti Patricia , Alves Ana Carolina Araruna , Dorigatti Jéssica Helena Franco , Chieregato Fabiele , de Almeida Stephani , Farias Stephany Luanna Queiroga , Meyer Patricia Froes , de Souza José Ricardo
Published: December 2024

Background

Reverse the fat accumulation and to improve body contouring with more safely than invasive procedures has become a necessary therapeutic approach, but little detailed when using LED photobiomodulation.

Aims

To evaluate an application protocol with two different wavelengths (red and infrared LED) consecutively in the abdomen region alone or associated with the dermocosmetics application with lipolytic properties.

Methods

Ninety patients with a significant amount of adipose tissue in the abdomen region were selected and randomized into three groups: Sham (SG), in which patients received a simulation of the treatment; LED (LG), in which participants received the application with LED; LED with dermocosmetic (LDG), in which the participants underwent a combination of LED and dermocosmetic treatment. The following assessments were carried out: anthropometric data (weight, height, perimetry, and adipometry); ultrasound examination to adipose layer; patient satisfaction questionnaire; histology of a donated a tissue sample.

Results

The main findings were a decrease in umbilical perimetry, a significant decrease in the body fat layer determined by ultrasound and significant histological changes that indicated an improvement in the appearance of the skin and an increase in the amount of macrophages in the subcutaneous layer. Histological data also showed an improvement in the appearance of the skin with an increase in collagen deposition and an increase in macrophages in the subcutaneous layer.

Conclusions

The LED phototherapy application protocol, both alone and in association with the dermocosmetic, with the emission of two consecutive wavelengths, was effective in reducing the fat tissue in the abdomen region.
Treatment of Delayed Hypersensitivity After Injection of Nasal Fillers
Authors: Jiang Liya , Chen Fei , He Meiyang , Zhou Yuejie , Wei Qingqian , Hu Jintian
Published: December 2024

Background

Soft tissue filler injection is the second most commonly performed cosmetic procedure worldwide, with augmentation rhinoplasty being the most common filling surgery in Asian countries because Asians predominantly have a low nasal bridge. With the increasing pursuit of beauty, the adverse reactions after injection not only damage the patient's appearance but also greatly affect their quality of life. Therefore, exploring effective methods to address adverse reactions after nasal filler injections is necessary.

Aims

Herein, we aimed to explore safe and effective drug doses and concentrations for the treatment of two patients who developed an allergic reaction after a nasal filling by intralesional drug injection.

Methods

Two patients developed severe swelling and deformity of the nose after the injection of fillers 6 months to 1 year prior to presentation. High‐frequency ultrasound and local conditions revealed inflammation in the injected area. The patients were administered the combination of 0.7% triamcinolone acetonide, 0.42% 5‐fluorouracil, and 0.7% lidocaine into the affected area; they were followed up for 6 months.

Results

After three times of treatment, swelling and sclerosis disappeared after 44.5 ± 2.12 days. No adverse effects of the infections were observed.

Conclusions

This drug regimen may represent a safe and effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of complications after soft tissue filler injections.