bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Questionnaire survey on point‐of‐care ultrasound utilization during cardiac arrest among emergency physicians in Hong Kong
Authors: Lo Kwong Tat , Kwok Chun Hei , Suen Kenneth Kin Wing
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Although point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) is recognized as a useful diagnostic and prognostic tool during the management of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), opposing viewpoints exist. The objectives of this study are to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) in POCUS utilization during OHCA among emergency medicine (EM) physicians in Hong Kong and to identify their barriers.

Methods

A cross‐sectional questionnaire was conducted among EM physicians in 9 accident and emergency departments in Hong Kong. The questionnaire assessed participants' demographics, knowledge, attitude, practices, and barriers on this issue. Composite scores for KAP were calculated. Subgroup analysis and multiple regression analysis were used to explore the correlation between KAP and participants' demographics. Participants' barriers were evaluated by binary and open‐ended questions.

Results

A total of 224 questionnaires were distributed and 150 questionnaires were returned (response rate: 67.0%). Statistically significant associations of knowledge and attitude with practice were demonstrated (both p < 0.001). Independent predictors of more frequent POCUS use in OHCA included EM fellowship status (p = 0.005), receiving training on this issue (p < 0.001), and working in large hospitals (p = 0.007). The top‐ranked barriers were chaotic environment (74%), no structural education on this practice (63%), and the lack of staff (61%).

Conclusions

The knowledge and attitude of performing POCUS during OHCA were demonstrated to enhance EM physicians' practice. By improving physicians' knowledge and removing the possible barriers they are facing, POCUS can be optimally utilized during OHCA to improve patient care.
Dengue fever coinfection in COVID‐19 era: A public health concern
Authors: Jal Soumya , Chhotaray Sangeeta , Pattnaik Gurudutta , Mishra Snehasish , Mohapatra Ranjan K. , Kandi Venkataramana , Kudrat‐E‐Zahan Md.
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim

Dengue and SARS‐CoV‐2 coinfection is commonly encountered and constantly reported in particularly the dengue‐endemic regions thus posing a co‐epidemic threat. Coinfection is also significantly associated with morbidity and mortality. Comorbidity risk during a coinfection is of a greater concern. Although the pathophysiologies of the two infections vary, their identical clinical symptoms during coinfection result in diagnostic and therapeutic complexities.

Methods

A literature search for the current relevant reports was carried out. The searched databases were Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar and the Web of Science, with health agencies like the WHO. Based on the selection criteria, the most recent and pertinent reports published in English language were included for the ease of understanding, deciphering and analysing the secondary data.

Results

A delay in proper diagnosis of coinfection could result in serious complications with poor patient outcome. Whether it is a standalone dengue or COVID‐19 infection or a coinfection, specific biomarkers may be utilized for its foolproof diagnosis. This article highlights the various diagnostic techniques and immune responses from the perspective of prompt and appropriate public health management for patients suffering from COVID‐19 and dengue viral coinfections, both being independently or collectively capable of damaging a human body.

Conclusion

As coinfection poses significantly large burden on an already‐fragile healthcare facility, constant monitoring of a coinfected patient is needed for prompt and suitable therapeutics. Also, to maintain high vigilance and invoke appropriate preventive measures particularly in dengue endemic regions, the government, healthcare authority and the general public need to collaborate and cooperate.
The impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccine on intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes at a fertility center in Iraq: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Al‐Haddad Hawraa Sahib , Mossa Hayder A. L. , Muhammed Amal Abdulwahid , Jumaah Alaa Salah , McAllister Katherine Ann , Yasseen Akeel Abed
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a major public health problem that requires preventative vaccines. However, there is vaccine hesitancy among women of reproductive age in Iraq. This study aimed to investigate SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination effects on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and related fertility parameters.

Methods

The study population comprised 54 infertile patients undergoing the ICSI procedure at a fertility clinic: vaccinated (n = 17) and non‐vaccinated (n = 37). SARS‐CoV‐2‐IgG/mL was assayed in follicular fluid from patients. Fertility parameters were assessed using oocyte and embryo quality and pregnancy outcomes between study groups, with respect to the time interval from vaccination to ova pick up.

Results

There were no significant differences between non‐vaccinated and vaccinated groups in respect of oocytes quality with regard to the mean number of picked up oocytes (p = 0.564), abnormal oocyte (p = 0.827), oocytes metaphase I and II (p = 0.306; p = 0.165), germinal vesicles (p = 0.076), grade I, II, and III fertilized oocytes (p > 0.05), and for maturation rate (p = 0.13). There were also no significant differences (p > 0.05) in embryo quality parameters with the mean number of grade I, II, and III fertilized oocytes and the fertilization rate, the number of transferred embryo (0.086). There were no significant differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups with respect to follicular fluid SARS‐CoV‐2‐IgG (p = 0.854), and pregnancy outcomes (p = 0.550).

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine has no effect on ICSI, fertility parameters, and pregnancy outcome.
The relationship between health literacy and health‐seeking behavior amongst university students in Ghana: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Akakpo Martin Gameli , Neuerer Maresa
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

The crises of the last decades have provided more evidence of the need for health literacy as a measure of resilience and preparedness. In this study the relationship between health literacy and health‐seeking behavior was investigated.

Methods

This study used a cross‐sectional design with a questionnaire of five sections dedicated to health‐seeking behavior, health literacy, family background, socioeconomic status and demographics. Health‐seeking behavior was used in three dimensions namely preference for hospitals, self‐medication, and herbal medicine. The questionnaire was completed by 262 students at the University of Ghana.

Results

A significant linear regression model (R = 0.39, R² = 0.15, Adjusted R² = 0.13, F = 8.89, p < 0.001) supported the relationship between health literacy and health‐seeking in health facilities such as hospitals. A Pearson correlation further showed an association between self‐medication and preference for herbal medication.

Conclusion

Findings support the crucial role of health literacy in timely hospital visits by patients. This implies the need to improve health literacy through education, policy, and research. This can promote prevention of diseases through timely health‐seeking and improve preparedness against health crises. The study suggests health literacy should be integrated into educational curricula and regular health campaigns run by public health agencies.
Trends of malaria cases (plasmodium species) in Gute Health Center, Wayu Tuka District, East Wollega Zone, (2013–2022): A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Tafesse Temesgen , Desalegn Ra'el , Dereje Alemayehu , Tolera Chimdesa , Desalegn Dejene , Amenu Desalegn
Published: May 2024

Background

Malaria is one of the biggest public health challenges in Ethiopia that has hampered the country's economic growth and development, and the government is on track to reduce malaria prevalence by 80% by 2025.

Objective

As a result, the purpose of this study was to examine the trends in malaria prevalence in Wayu Tuqa District, Gute Health Center, over the last 10 years (2013–2022).

Material and Methods

A retrospective analysis was undertaken to identify the patterns of malaria cases in Wayu Tuqa District, Gute Health Center, from 2013 to 2022 by evaluating the malaria registration laboratory logbook. All socio‐demographic data, as well as the year, month, and malaria prevalence, were obtained using a predesigned data collection form from previous years.

Results

In this study, 3402 (22.50%) of the total 15,040 probable patients had malaria.P. falciparumwas the most common species, accounting for 82.84% (2818) of the total, followed byP. vivax(16.00%) (547). Males and people over the age of 15 were the most affected demographics.

Conclusion

In this study, the highest number of malaria cases were observed in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Furthermore, the autumn season had the highest incidence of malaria cases, 40% (1339), while the spring season had the lowest prevalence, 16% (546). The general trend of plasmodium species at Gute Health Center over the previous 10 years (2013–2022) has not shown inconsistent trends. As a result, proper malaria prevention and control planning, implementation, and monitoring should be strengthened at all levels.
circ_0000592 facilitates the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via miR‐155‐5p/FZD5 axis
Authors: He Jinxian , Yu Kaizhong , Liang Gaofeng , Shen Weiyu , Tian Hui
Published: May 2024

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the gastrointestinal malignancies with high prevalence and poor prognosis. Previous reports suggested that circular ribose nucleic acids might exert regulatory functions in ESCC. This study aims to explore the role of circ_0000592 in ESCC progression, providing novel insights into the diagnosis and therapeutic avenues for ESCC. The GSE131969 data set was utilized to assess circ_0000592 expression in ESCC. The validation was performed in the tumorous tissues of ESCC patients (n = 80) and human‐immortalized ESCC cell lines. The correlation between circ_0000592 expression and prognosis was analyzed. The impact of circ_0000592 on ESCC cell activity was evaluated through downregulating circ_0000592, as well as encompassing cell viability, migration, and invasion abilities. The downstream pathway of circ_0000592 was explored by binding site prediction from the TargetScan database, followed by in vitro and in vivo experiments. An in vivo xenograft tumor model was established to highlight the role of circ_0000592 in ESCC. Patients with ESCC exhibited higher circ_0000592 expression levels compared to noncancerous patients, which were associated with reduced survival time, higher TNM stage, and increased lymph node metastasis. The circ_0000592 downregulation suppressed cell viability, migration, and invasion abilities in vitro. Mechanistically, circ_0000592 countered the inhibitory effects on the target gene Frizzled 5 (FZD5) through interactions with miR‐155‐5p. The overexpression of miR‐155‐5p curtailed the luciferase activity of circ_0000592 in ESCC cells, inhibiting downstream molecule FZD5 protein expression and subsequently mitigating the detrimental consequences of escalated circ_0000592 expression in ESCC cells. Consistently, circ_0000592 downregulation curbed proliferation and metastasis of ESCC tumors in vivo. In summary, circ_0000592 promoted the progress of ESCC by counteracting the inhibitory impact on FZD5 through its interaction with miR‐155‐5p. Together, our findings highlighted circ_0000592 as a prospective therapeutic target for ESCC.
Nucleoporin Nup98 is an essential factor for ipo4 dependent protein import
Authors: Guo Yingying , Tao Tao , Wu Ting , Hou Jingjing , Lin Wenbo
Published: May 2024

Nucleocytoplasmic transport of macromolecules is essential in eukaryotic cells. In this process, the karyopherins play a central role when they transport cargoes across the nuclear pore complex. Importin 4 belongs to the karyopherin β family. Many studies have focused on finding substrates for importin 4, but no direct mechanism studies of its precise transport function have been reported. Therefore, this paper mainly aimed to study the mechanism of nucleoporins in mediating nuclear import and export of importin 4. To address this question, we constructed shRNAs targeting Nup358, Nup153, Nup98, and Nup50. We found that depletion of Nup98 resulted in a shift in the subcellular localization of importin 4 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Mutational analysis demonstrated that Nup98 physically and functionally interacts with importin 4 through its N‐terminal phenylalanine‐glycine (FG) repeat region. Mutation of nine of these FG motifs to SG motifs significantly attenuated the binding of Nup98 to importin 4, and we further confirmed the essential role of the six FG motifs in amino acids 121–360 of Nup98 in binding with importin 4. In vitro transport assay also confirmed that VDR, the substrate of importin 4, could not be transported into the nucleus after Nup98 knockdown. Overall, our results showed that Nup98 is required for efficient importin 4‐mediated transport. This is the first study to reveal the mechanism of importin 4 in transporting substrates into the nucleus.
Single‐cell RNA analysis of chromodomain‐encoding genes in mesenchymal stromal cells of the mouse dental pulp
Authors: Becker Timothy James , Enkhmandakh Badam , Bayarsaihan Dashzeveg
Published: May 2024

The chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding (CHD) and chromobox (CBX) families of proteins play crucial roles in cell fate decisions, differentiation, and cell proliferation in a broad variety of tissues and cell types. CHD proteins are ATP‐dependent epigenetic enzymes actively engaged in transcriptional regulation, DNA replication, and DNA damage repair, whereas CBX proteins are transcriptional repressors mainly involved in the formation of heterochromatin. The pleiotropic effects of CHD and CBX proteins are largely dependent on their versatility to interact with other key components of the epigenetic and transcriptional machinery. Although the function and regulatory modes of CHD and CBX factors are well established in many cell types, little is known about their roles during osteogenic differentiation. A single‐cell RNA‐sequencing analysis of the mouse incisor dental pulp revealed distinct spatiotemporal expression patterns of CHD‐ and CBX‐encoding genes within different clusters of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) representing various stages of osteogenic differentiation. Additionally, genes encoding interaction partners of CHD and CBX proteins, such as subunits of the trithorax‐COMPASS and polycomb chromatin remodeling complexes, exhibited differential co‐expression behaviors within MSC subpopulations. Thus, CHD‐ and CBX‐encoding genes show partially overlapping but distinct expression patterns in MSCs, suggesting their differential roles in osteogenic cell fate decisions.
Exploring the moderating roles of dispositional mindfulness and body image flexibility in the association between body dissatisfaction and disordered eating in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Chen Gui , Wang Xingchang , Barnhart Wesley R. , Fu Yuru , He Jinbo
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Previous research suggests potential moderating roles of dispositional mindfulness and body image flexibility in the association between body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. However, relevant research is mainly conducted on adult women from Western countries, and limited evidence exists for adolescent samples, especially from non‐Western contexts (e.g., China). Thus, this study aimed to examine the moderating roles of dispositional mindfulness and body image flexibility in the relationship between body dissatisfaction and disordered eating in Chinese adolescents.

Method

We recruited 545 Chinese adolescents (53.9% boys, aged 12–16 years) who completed measures of body dissatisfaction, dispositional mindfulness, body image flexibility, and disordered eating. Moderation analyses were examined with PROCESS macro on SPSS.

Results

In separate models, both higher dispositional mindfulness and body image flexibility weakened relationships between body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. However, when both dispositional mindfulness and body image flexibility were entered into the same moderation model, only body image flexibility showed a significant moderating effect.

Discussion

Both dispositional mindfulness and body image flexibility may weaken the association between body dissatisfaction and disordered eating in adolescents. However, body image flexibility might have a stronger effect than dispositional mindfulness. These findings suggest that interventions aimed at reducing body dissatisfaction to prevent disordered eating in adolescents may pay more attention to adolescents' body image flexibility.
Planar graphs having no cycle of length 4, 7, or 9 are DP‐3‐colorable
Authors: Kang Yingli , Jin Ligang , Zhu Xuding
Published: May 2024

This paper proves that every planar graph having no cycle of length 4, 7, or 9 is DP‐3‐colorable.
Effects of purple cabbage anthocyanin extract on the gluten characteristics and the gluten network evolution of high‐gluten dough
Authors: Xie Li , Liu Minglong , Zeng Huawei , Zheng Zhi , Ye Yongkang , Liu Fengru
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Anthocyanins are polyphenolic pigments that have hypoglycemic, antioxidation, anti‐aging, and other effects. Research has shown that polyphenols can optimize the processing of dough and improve the texture and nutritional characteristics of dough products. The formation of gluten networks is decisive for the quality of flour products. The effects of purple cabbage anthocyanin (PCA) extract on the structure, microscopic morphology, and network formation of gluten protein were studied, and the types of cross‐linking between PCA and gluten protein are discussed.

RESULTS

The results show that PCA extract increased the free sulfhydryl (SH) group content and the free amino group of gluten proteins, stimulated an increase in the β‐sheet ratio and the decrease of α‐helix ratio, and increased the gluten index significantly (P < 0.05). The PCA extract also induced gluten protein aggregation, increased the height of protein molecular chains, and stimulated the formation of gluten networks. When PCA extract concentrations were 4 g kg−1 and 8 g kg−1, the gluten network was more homogeneous, continuous, and dense.

CONCLUSION

Appropriate anthocyanins have a positive effect on the properties of gluten and promote the formation of gluten networks. Excessive anthocyanins destroy gluten protein interaction and harm gluten cross‐linking. This study may provide a useful source of data for the production of functional flour products rich in anthocyanins. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The effects of types of touch and haptic cues on choice overload
Authors: Thai Nguyen T. , Yüksel Ülkü , Peck Joann
Published: May 2024

Although consumers are commonly exposed to numerous choices and the opportunity to touch products when they shop, the literature remains unclear on how both factors simultaneously affect choice. With the growth of online shopping, touch literature has studied the effects of mere touch (i.e., nondiagnostic tactile contact) or vicarious touch (e.g., observing a hand in physical contact with a product or imagining touching a product) to demonstrate that these nondiagnostic haptic inputs can comparably influence consumer attitude, just like diagnostic touch. By investigating the moderating effects of different haptic inputs on choice overload, this research reveals certain conditions in which nondiagnostic haptic inputs operate differently than those of diagnostic touch. We find that both mere touch (Study 1) and vicarious touch (Study 2) help reduce choice overload effects by eliminating the effect of choice set size on choice uncertainty, which is typically observed in the no touch (i.e., control) condition. As haptic cues have been increasingly employed to aid the online shopping experience for consumers, we also find that the choice overload effect is eliminated when an autotelic haptic cue is presented but amplified when an instrumental haptic cue is provided (Study 3). Besides, this research demonstrates that, while the moderating effects of the nondiagnostic haptic inputs are driven by increased personal control, instrumental touch can amplify choice overload effects due to the increased choice difficulty when choosing from large (vs. small) choice sets. These findings help retailers know what type of haptic cues to apply or avoid, as consumers have already been overloaded with abundant choices when they shop online.
Hearing what you pay improves transaction satisfaction? Unveiling the dual process influence of auditory feedback
Authors: Li Aoqi , Huang Minxue , Zhan Mengmeng
Published: May 2024

Retailers in certain regions, such as China, have recently implemented auditory feedback in cash registers to promptly announce consumer mobile payment status, but it presents a dual effect on consumers' transaction experiences. On one hand, auditory feedback enhances consumers' sense of control over the payment, leading to increased transaction satisfaction. On the other hand, it also intensifies consumers' pain of payment, resulting in decreased transaction satisfaction. Nevertheless, our study reveals an overall positive effect of auditory feedback on transaction satisfaction. We examined the moderating role of shopping motivation (functional vs. hedonic) and found that auditory feedback can enhance transaction satisfaction for consumers with functional shopping motivation and decrease it for consumers with hedonic shopping motivation. We also explored the moderating role of quick response (QR) code payments (dependent payment vs. autonomous payment) and observed a positive effect of auditory feedback on transaction satisfaction for dependent payment but not for autonomous payment. These findings contribute to the broader research on mobile payments and retailers aiming to enhance consumers' transaction experience.
The Impact of Regiodefects on the Melt‐Memory of Isotactic Polypropylene
Authors: Cicolella Alessandra , De Rosa Claudio , Sepe Eleonora , De Stefano Fabio , Giordano Angelo , Scoti Miriam
Published: May 2024

The memory of crystalline phase in the melt of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) in regiodefective samples of iPP characterized by different concentrations regiodefects, constituted by secondary 2,1 propene units, is studied. The self‐nucleation (SN) experiments have demonstrated that the presence of 2,1 regiodefects produces a strong memory of the crystalline phase in the melt that persists up to temperatures much higher than the melting temperature. The extension of the heterogeneous melt (domain II) containing self‐nuclei increases with increasing the concentration of regiodefects. The higher the concentration of regiodefects the higher the temperature at which the self‐nuclei are dissolved and the homogeneous melt is achieved. This demonstrates that a strong memory of the crystalline phase of iPP in the melt exists not only in copolymers with noncrystallizable bulky comonomeric units rejected from the crystals but even when small defects are largely included in the crystals.
Anlotinib induces neuronal‐like differentiation of neuroblastoma by downregulating CRMP5
Authors: Hu Junwen , Yang Wenlong , Wang Kang , Xu Hongyan , Chen Tianxiang , Li Chao , Xiong Ting , Xu Han , Luo Ming , Zhang Shouhua , Yan Jinlong
Published: May 2024

The therapeutic effect of anlotinib on neuroblastoma is still not fully understood. This study aims to explore the differentiation therapeutic effects of anlotinib on neuroblastoma and its potential association with the neural development regulatory protein collapsin response mediator protein 5 (CRMP5), both in vivo and in vitro. A patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) model was established to observe the therapeutic effect of anlotinib. Neuroblastoma cell lines SK‐N‐SH and SK‐N‐AS were cultured to observe the morphological impact of anlotinib. Transwell assay was used to evaluate the cell invasion, and Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry were employed to detect the expressions of neuronal differentiation‐related proteins. Results indicate that anlotinib effectively inhibited tumor growth in the PDX model, modulated the expressions of neuronal differentiation markers. In vitro, anlotinib treatment induced neurite outgrowth in neuroblastoma cells and inhibited their invasive ability, reflecting a change in neuronal marker expression patterns consistent with the PDX model. Similarly, in the SK‐N‐AS mouse xenograft model, anlotinib demonstrated comparable tumor‐suppressing effects and promoted neuronal‐like differentiation. Additionally, anlotinib significantly downregulated CRMP5 expression in neuroblastoma both in vivo and in vitro. Overexpression of CRMP5 significantly reversed the differentiation therapy effect of anlotinib, exacerbating the aggressiveness and reducing the differentiation level of neuroblastoma. These findings highlight the potential of anlotinib as an anti‐neuroblastoma agent. It may suppress tumor proliferation and invasion by promoting the differentiation of tumor cells towards a neuronal‐like state, and this differentiation therapy effect involves the inhibition of CRMP5 signaling.
IGF2BP2 inhibits invasion and migration of clear cell renal cell carcinoma via targeting Netrin‐4 in an m6A‐dependent manner
Authors: Wang Gui , Zhuang Tao , Zhen Fei , Zhang Chu , Wang Qichao , Miao Xu , Qi Nienie , Yao Ruiqin
Published: May 2024

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common subtype of renal cell carcinoma, often leads to a poor prognosis due to metastasis. The investigation of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, a crucial RNA modification, and its role in ccRCC, particularly through the m6A reader insulin‐like growth factor 2 mRNA‐binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2), revealed significant insights. We found that IGF2BP2 was notably downregulated in ccRCC, which correlated with tumor aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Thus, IGFBP2 has emerged as an independent prognostic factor of ccRCC. Moreover, a strong positive correlation was observed between the expression of IGF2BP2 and Netrin‐4. Netrin‐4 was also downregulated in ccRCC, and its lower levels were associated with increased malignancy and poor prognosis. Overexpression of IGF2BP2 and Netrin‐4 suppressed the invasion and migration of ccRCC cells, while Netrin‐4 knockdown reversed these effects in ccRCC cell lines. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP)‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction validated the robust enrichment of Netrin‐4 mRNA in anti‐IGF2BP2 antibody immunoprecipitates. MeRlP showed significantly increased Netrin4 m6A levels after lGF2BP2 overexpression. Moreover, we found that IGF2BP2 recognized and bound to the m6A site within the coding sequence of Netrin‐4, enhancing its mRNA stability. Collectively, these results showed that IGF2BP2 plays a suppressive role in the invasion and migration of ccRCC cells by targeting Netrin‐4 in an m6A‐dependent manner. These findings underscore the potential of IGF2BP2/Netrin‐4 as a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in patients with ccRCC metastasis.
Decompression Surgery in Elderly Patients with Hemifacial Spasm Refractory to Botulinum Toxin
Authors: Tugend Margaret , Ulane Christina M. , Patel Kevin , Sekula Raymond F.
Published: May 2024

Background

Botulinum toxin is an effective treatment for hemifacial spasm in elderly patients. However, some patients do not tolerate the side effects and frequency of botulinum toxin treatments.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes of a cohort of elderly patients referred by neurologists for surgical decompression of the facial nerve following botulinum toxin treatment.

Methods

In a prospective cohort study, logistic regression was used to detect potential predictors of spasm‐freedom after surgical decompression of the facial nerve in elderly patients that received ≤8 and >8 botulinum toxin treatments for hemifacial spasm before surgery. Age, sex, side, preoperative symptom duration, and preoperative botulinum toxin treatment were assessed as potential predictors of spasm‐freedom at last follow‐up.

Results

Of 76 elderly patients with hemifacial spasm treated with botulinum toxin and microvascular decompression, with at least 2‐years of follow‐up (median, 44.5 months), 84.2% were spasm‐free at last follow‐up. Age (P = 0.38), sex (P = 0.59), side (P = 0.15), preoperative symptom duration (P = 0.7), and number of preoperative botulinum toxin treatments (P = 0.3) were not predictors of long‐term spasm‐freedom. Permanent ipsilateral hearing loss was the most frequent complication (3.9%).

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that elderly patients can undergo botulinum toxin treatment for hemifacial spasm without compromising their likelihood of achieving spasm‐freedom with future surgical decompression. Therefore, surgical decompression of the facial nerve is an effective therapy for elderly patients with hemifacial spasm refractory to botulinum toxin.
UGC creator's video‐generation and program‐participation decisions in the presence of ad‐revenue‐sharing programs
Authors: Liu Xueyu , Mei Shue , Zhong Weijun
Published: May 2024

Video‐sharing platforms commonly implement ad‐revenue‐sharing programs to incentivize UGC creators. This paper constructs a game‐theoretic model to examine a creator's optimal decisions on video‐generation and program‐participation. Results show that participating in the ad‐revenue‐sharing program is not always beneficial to creators. Creators with small follower sizes and moderate creation efficiency may experience reduced payoff when participating in that program because of the resultant substantial decrease in the promotion effort offered by the platform. Moreover, the ad‐revenue‐sharing program is not always effective in motivating creators to engage in video generation or incentivizing creators to improve the quality of their videos.
Parameter optimization of type II fuzzy sliding mode control for bridge crane systems based on improved grey wolf algorithm
Authors: Sun Zhiqiang , Sun Zhe , Xie Xiangpeng , Sun Zhixin
Published: May 2024

Bridge cranes are complex nonlinear dynamic systems with underactuated characteristics, making it challenging for controllers to man age the spatial swing of the load effectively. Additionally, uncertainties both within and outside the system adversely impact control performance. To address these issues, a Type‐II fuzzy sliding mode controller has proven effective in enhancing the anti‐swing control performance of the payload. However, due to the intricate parameter adjustment optimization problem and potential challenges in dealing with nonlinearity and uncertainty, especially in complex dynamic systems, this paper proposes a grey wolf algorithm based on a dynamic spiral hunting mechanism. This enhancement endows the algorithm with improved convergence speed and higher robustness, enabling more effective parameter tuning for the second‐order fractional‐order sliding mode controller (FSMC). The proposed algorithm demonstrates superior convergence speed and solution accuracy performance through testing and comparison. Finally, simulation verification under two conditions of the bridge crane system validates the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
A novel MED12 pathogenic variant in a female fetus with facial cleft and cardiac defects identified in the first trimester
Authors: Dai Wei‐Si , Yang Yan‐Dong , Li Dong‐Zhi
Published: May 2024

Trio exome sequencing was performed on a female fetus with an increased nuchal translucency, along with nasal bone hypoplasia, suspected cleft palate and abnormal outflow tract of the heart. A de novo heterozygous variant c.5500_5507del, p.(Tyr1834Argfs × 58) in the MED12 gene was detected. Loss‐of‐function variants in MED12 in females are associated with Hardikar syndrome (HS). A follow‐up ultrasound at 15+5 weeks of gestation identified multiple fetal anomalies including bilateral cleft lip and palate, diaphragmatic hernia, atrioventricular septal defect, persistent truncus arteriosus, and bilateral renal pelvis dilation. Fetal autopsy confirmed the prenatal sonographic findings, and the MED12 variant was discussed by our multidisciplinary team to be the cause of fetal anomalies. Our case is the first prenatal one in which HS was diagnosed due to first trimester structural malformations. This case report presents another example of early identification of a major anomaly which allows earlier genetic diagnosis and more time for clinical management.
Lower peripheral blood CD4+ lymphocyte ratio is associated with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Huang Jieting , Xing Guosheng , Kong Xiangyong
Published: May 2024

Objective

To elucidate the characteristics of lymphocyte subsets in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) diagnosis following Jensen's criterion to understand the spectrum of lymphocytes in different degrees of BPD.

Study Design

This single‐center retrospective cohort study included 120 neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit between 1 July 2014 and 30 June 2021, who had undergone peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulation detection.

Results

Thirty‐one neonates were included in the control group, whereas 33 infants with BPD were included in the case group. In addition, we selected 56 infants with a gestational age (GA) <37 weeks without BPD who were receiving oxygen therapy. Among the three groups, the B cell and NK cell frequencies were significantly higher and the frequencies of T cells and CD4+ cells were significantly lower in the BPD group. In newborns without BPD, the distribution of T lymphocyte subsets was similar at different GAs. Comparing different degrees of BPD, the patients in the grades 2–3 BPD group had significantly lower percentages of T lymphocytes and CD4+ T cells than those in the other groups. Remarkably, the frequencies of NK cells were significantly higher in patients with grades 2–3 BPD, and the Treg cells slightly increased with BPD severity, although the differences were not significant.

Conclusion

Healthy neonates had similar ratios of lymphocyte subsets among different GAs; although as the GAs increased, the percentage of lymphocytes increased slightly. Severe BPD was associated with lower CD4+ T cells and higher NK cells. However, whether such changes were the cause or the consequence of BPD has not been determined.
Efficacy of head postural correction program on craniovertebral angle, scapular position, and dominant hand grip strength in forward head posture subjects: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Elgendy Mohamed Hussein , Ghaffar Marwa Adel Abdel , Sabbahi Samir Ahmed El , Abutaleb Enas El Sayed , Elsayed Salah Eldin B.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Forward head posture (FHP) is a common postural disorder that alters shoulder function. This study examined the efficacy of a corrective program involving postural correction exercises (PCEs), scapular stabilization exercises (SSEs), and kinesiotaping (KT) on improving craniovertebral angle (CVA), scapular position, and dominant hand grip strength (HGS) in individuals with FHP.

Methods

Sixty subjects (8 males and 52 females, 18–40 years old) were randomly allocated into four equal groups: Group A: received PCEs only, Group B: received PCEs and SSEs, Group C: received PCEs and KT, Group D: received PCEs, SSEs and KT. All subjects received treatment for 4 weeks (4 times/week) and postural advice. Outcome measures included cranio‐vertebral angle (CVA), scapular position using Lateral Scapular Slide Test and dominant HGS using a CAMRY dynamometer that were assessed at baseline and 4 weeks post intervention.

Results

Comparing all groups post training revealed that there were statistically significant increases (p < 0.05) in all measured variables (CVA, scapular position and dominant HGS) in favor of group (D).

Conclusion

Combination of PCEs, SSEs and KT interventions has achieved the best gains in terms of CVA, dominant HGS and regaining optimal scapular position in FHP subjects.
Preparation and Application of pH‐Sensitive Protein Nanofibre Membrane Loaded With Alizarin and Curcumin for Meat Preservation
Authors: Cui Haiying , Gao Jie , Khin Myat Noe , Aziz Tariq , Al‐Asmari Fahad , Alamri Abdulhakeem S. , Alhomrani Majid , Lin Lin
Published: May 2024

A pH‐sensitive protein fibre membrane was prepared using alizarin (ALI), curcumin (CUR), gelatin, zein and cinnamaldehyde as raw materials, by electrospinning technology. The membrane was developed to detect food deterioration and extend shelf life. It was observed that the addition of CUR significantly enhanced the antioxidant and barrier properties of the membrane. The fibre membrane was responsive to pH with minimal colour alteration in response to humidity (from 20% to 80% relative humidity) and demonstrated excellent reusability along with a low detection limit for ammonia gas. Moreover, it was capable of monitoring low concentrations of bacteria in the headspace. To assess the efficacy of the membrane, a freshness monitoring and preservation study was carried out on pork stored at 4°C for 5 days. The fibre membrane not only prolonged the shelf life of meat but also allowed real‐time monitoring of its freshness. The results highlight the potential application of the prepared nanofibres in the simultaneous monitoring and preservation of meat freshness.
Alkylresorcinol detection and identification in archaeological pottery using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole/Orbitrap mass spectrometry
Authors: Doliente Jonica Ella , Langer Swen , Dickinson Marc R. , Cubas Miriam , Colonese André C. , Penkman Kirsty , Craig Oliver E.
Published: May 2024

Rationale

Alkylresorcinols (AR) are cereal‐specific biomarkers and have recently been found in archaeological pots. However, their low concentrations and high susceptibility to degradation make them difficult to detect using conventional gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Here we describe the development of a more sensitive liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS) method to detect these compounds.

Method

A method based on the use of ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled to an Orbitrap mass analyser was established and validated for the detection of low‐concentration ARs in pottery. During the preliminary experiments, UHPLC‐Q/Orbitrap MS (ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole/Orbitrap mass spectrometry) was demonstrated to be more sensitive, and a wide range of AR homologues in cereal extracts were detected, unlike UHPLC‐QTOFMS (ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry) and GC/MS. The developed method was utilised to profile AR homologue distribution in modern cereal samples and reanalyse AR‐containing pots from the archaeological site of Must Farm.

Results

A highly sensitive LC/MS method with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.02 μg/g and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.06 μg/g was used to profile ARs in five modern cereal grains. The obtained LOD is 250 times lower than that obtained using the conventional GC/MS approach. AR 21:0 was the most abundant homologue in all four Triticum spp.—einkorn, emmer, Khorasan wheat and common wheat. Meanwhile, AR 25:0 was the predominant homologue in barley, potentially enabling differentiation between wheat and barley. The developed LC/MS‐based method was successfully used to analyse ARs extracted from Must Farm potsherds and identified the cereal species most likely processed in the pots—emmer wheat.

Conclusion

The described method offers an alternative and more sensitive approach for detecting and identifying ARs in ancient pottery. It has been successfully utilised to detect AR homologues in archaeological samples and discriminate which cereal species—wheat and barley—were processed in the pots.
Sedimentology of a delta formed by agricultural river discharge into a flood‐control reservoir, Iowa
Authors: Streeter Matthew T. , Schilling Keith E. , Stoeffler Thomas , Anderson Elliot
Published: May 2024

River deltas are ecologically critical landscape components and are responsible as habitats for millions of people, wildlife, and plant communities. Deltas store vast quantities of eroded nutrient‐rich sediment and play a significant role in water quality management through nutrient cycling and storage. Many studies have been conducted in marine and tidal delta environments that characterize the sedimentology and geomorphic characteristics of these relatively young landscapes. However, little work has been completed in even younger inland reservoir deltas. This study characterized the sediments and geomorphology of the growing delta forming at the outlet of the Des Moines River into Red Rock Reservoir in south‐central Iowa and discussed the implications of the lower delta sediment and topographic characteristics in terms of sediment and nutrient storage, and the potential impact of the delta on other hydroecological factors. We found that the ca. 30‐year‐old lower delta is storing up to 60% of the contributing watershed's eroded sediment and total carbon, with total sediment depths of ca. 9 m across the 755‐ha area. Further, we identified two major geomorphic landscape positions within the lower delta that were categorized as distributary channels and delta plains. Sedimentological differences in these microscale landscape positions were identified. Sand content was greater at lowest distributary channel elevations and at the highest plain elevations whereas silt dominated the elevation range between these two extremes. The zone of silt accumulation corresponds to the range in elevation associated with normal lake level management. The silt‐dominated area is regularly inundated and covered with a variety of emergent vegetation and is the zone of critical importance for waterbird habitat and nutrient‐processing capacity.
Organizational sensemaking during curriculum implementation: The dilemma of agency, role of collaboration, and importance of discipline‐specific leadership
Authors: Lowell Benjamin R. , Fogelman Sarah E. , McNeill Katherine L.
Published: May 2024

Adopting new instructional materials is an important way to support reform in science education, but implementation can be challenging and complex. Therefore, we conducted a contrasting case study of two middle schools implementing new curricular materials. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with teachers and leaders and collected instructional artifacts and reflections from teachers. Using an organizational sensemaking framework, we investigated the tensions that came up during implementation, the resources leveraged to address those tensions, and resulting instructional and leadership practices. One school focused on implementing the materials with fidelity, relying on networking and past practices, which led to a more traditionalized teaching approach. The other school centered the curricular materials, prioritizing understanding the instructional model and customizing for their students, resulting in more aligned instructional practices. Looking across the two cases highlights three key takeaways. First, we discuss the dilemma of agency, which is how can leaders balance teachers' professional agency with the push for instructional reform, especially when teachers may not fully understand the reform approach. We propose that a focus on understanding the goals of instructional reform might help resolve this dilemma. Second, we discuss the role of collaboration as potentially supporting or inhibiting teacher learning and propose that when teachers collaborate about high quality instructional materials they may be more likely to learn about the reforms inherent in them. Finally, we highlight the importance of discipline‐specific leadership in helping teachers to understand and implement the complexities inherent in new science instructional materials.
Synthesis of Aryl‐Functionalized Benzo[d,e]Benzo[4,5]İmidazo[2,1‐a]Isoquinolin‐7‐One Derivatives: DNA Intercalation Causing Cytotoxicity
Authors: Türkmen Gülşah , Çakır Sinem , Batıkan Kavukcu Serdar , Türkmen Hayati
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on the cytotoxic effect properties of 4‐aryl‐functionalized benzo[d,e]benzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1‐a]isoquinolin‐7‐one (4‐X−Ar−BBI). The electron‐withdrawing and electron‐donating substituents located at the para position of the phenyl ring attached to the heterocyclic structure have altered the pi electron density within the structure. This change in electron density has influenced the intercalation ability of the heterocyclic structure and has impacted the intensity of its interaction with DNA. The 4‐aryl‐benzo[d,e]benzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1‐a]isoquinolin‐7‐one derivatives (4‐X−Ar−BBI) were prepared via the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. The optimum reaction conditions were determined to be 70 °C for 5 hours using catalyst 1 and K2CO3, resulting in a yield of 96 % of 4‐H−Ar−BBI. Characterization of all compounds (4‐X−Ar−BBI) was performed using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and 1H‐ and 19F‐NMR spectroscopies. The cytotoxic activities of the compounds (4‐X−Ar−BBI) were investigated against cancer cell lines, specifically HeLa (human cervix adenocarcinoma epithelial), PC3 (human prostate), and MCF‐7 (human breast). The stability of 4‐CN−Ar−BBI and the binding modes between 4‐CN−Ar−BBI and DNA were investigated via 1H‐NMR spectroscopy and UV‐Vis spectroscopy, respectively. 4‐CH3−3‐NO2−Ar−BBI exhibited the most potent cytotoxic activity against MCF‐7, and 4‐F−Ar−BBI showed the highest activity against HeLa, with IC50 values of 3.675 and 7.370 μM, respectively.
Exploring the Antiproliferative Potential of Morpholine‐Functionalized Aurones: Design, Synthesis, SAR, DFT, Hirshfeld Surface, 3D Energy Frameworks and Molecular Docking Analysis
Authors: Kumar Gourav , Saroha Bhavna , Kumari Bavita , Ghosh Sushmita , Nassare Vilas D. , Kumar Suresh
Published: May 2024

In quest of generating a diverse array of potential cytotoxic candidates through molecular hybridization approach, herein we have designed a library of forty‐one morpholine‐functionalized aurones 7(a–ao), each with a distinct substitution pattern. These aurones were obtained by reacting 6‐hydroxyaurones, with 4‐(2‐chloroethyl)morpholine hydrochloride, characterized by various spectroscopic techniques including single crystal XRD (7b) and in‐vitro screened for their antiproliferative potential against human gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cells. Most of the synthesized compounds have exhibited excellent cytotoxic results. Twenty analogs were found to have cytotoxic potential better than the reference drug Leucovorin and analog 7j emerged as the most potent with IC50=5.98 μM nearly one fifth to the standard drug Leucovorin (IC50=30.8 μM). This library, consisting of twenty three novel and eighteen reported morpholine‐functionalized aurones, bearing diverse substitution pattern, further helped in making a concrete structure‐activity relationship for antiproliferative potential. Additionally, in‐silico molecular docking, Hirshfeld surface analysis and two dimensional fingerprint plots were also studied to understand the molecular interactions and various structural aspects. Further computational investigations of these compounds were conducted using the DFT/B3LYP method, for the determination of HOMO and LUMO energy values as well as the calculation of chemical softness, hardness, electronegativity and electrophilic index etc.