bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic value of right atrial function in patients with significant tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Nishihara Takahiro , Takaya Yoichi , Nakayama Rie , Yoshida Yu , Toh Norihisa , Miyoshi Toru , Nakamura Kazufumi , Yuasa Shinsuke
Published: August 2024

Aims

Although right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is associated with adverse outcomes in tricuspid regurgitation (TR), the potential role of right atrial (RA) function is unknown. We aimed to investigate the relationship between RA function and clinical outcomes in patients with significant TR.

Methods

This retrospective study included 169 outpatients with moderate or severe TR due to left‐sided heart diseases who underwent transthoracic echocardiography between June 2020 and April 2023 (average age, 75 ± 10 years; male, 40%). Patients with atrial fibrillation were excluded from this study due to the inaccuracy of the evaluation using 2D speckle‐tracking echocardiography. RA function was compared between patients with and without events, which were defined as all‐cause mortality or hospitalization due to heart failure. RA function was calculated as RA global longitudinal strain (RAGLS) with the 2D speckle‐tracking echocardiography.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 13 months, 19 patients had events (all‐cause mortality: 14 cases, hospitalization due to heart failure: 5 cases). RAGLS was lower in patients with events than in those without events (13% ± 10% vs. 18% ± 9%, P = 0.02). When the patients were categorized into two groups [low RAGLS ≤ 16.2% vs. high RAGLS > 16.2%, high RA volume index (RAVI) ≥ 50 mL/m2 vs. low RAVI < 50 mL/m2], Kaplan–Meier curves showed that patients with low RAGLS had higher event rates than those with high RAGLS (log‐rank test, P = 0.003). Patients with high RAVI had higher event rates than those with low RAVI (log‐rank test, P < 0.001). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, low RAGLS (≤16.2%) was significantly associated with events in a model that included RV dysfunction (RV fractional area change ≤ 35%) or high RAVI (≥50 mL/m2) (hazard ratio: 4.55, 95% confidence interval: 1.51–13.71, P < 0.01; hazard ratio: 4.57, 95% confidence interval: 1.52–13.79, P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions

RAGLS is associated with all‐cause mortality and hospitalization due to heart failure in patients with significant TR. Our results suggest that RA function is a sensitive marker for identifying the risk stratification of significant TR.
Influencing and prognostic factors of end‐stage hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhang Yisen , Xie Wenhui , Dai Yaqing , Wu Zefeng , Lin Yuping , Yang Ming , Hong Huashan
Published: August 2024

Aims

End‐stage hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ES‐HCM) is a disease with severe complications and a poor prognosis. This study aimed to explore the influencing and prognostic factors of ES‐HCM.

Methods and results

A total of 1282 patients with HCM who were hospitalized for the first time at Fujian Medical University Union Hospital between 1 January 2013 and 30 September 2021 were recorded. The patients with HCM and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 50% were defined as having ES‐HCM, and a control group (LVEF ≥ 50%) was generated from the collected medical records of HCM. The patients were matched in a ratio of 4:1 based on age and sex. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the influencing factors of ES‐HCM. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed to analyse the clinical outcomes of ES‐HCM patients. A total of 250 inpatients with HCM were enrolled in the study; 50 patients had ES‐HCM, and 200 had HCM with LVEF ≥ 50%. The mean age of the patients at enrolment was 62.5 ± 10.3 years, and 215 patients (215/250, 86.0%) were male. The median follow‐up time of the patients was 2.8 (1.4–5.4) years. The incidence of all‐cause death and cardiovascular death in patients with ES‐HCM was higher than those in patients with HCM and LVEF ≥ 50% (22/50 [44.0%] vs. 13/200 [6.5%]; 12/50 [24.0%] vs. 4/200 [2.0%], all P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the influencing factors associated with ES‐HCM included age at first symptom onset (odds ratio [OR] = 0.95, 95% CI [0.90, 1.00], P = 0.042), New York Heart Association (NYHA) class (OR = 7.73, 95% CI [2.93, 20.41], P < 0.001), heart rate (OR = 1.07, 95% CI [1.02, 1.12], P = 0.003), QRS duration (OR = 1.03, 95% CI [1.00, 1.05], P = 0.020), left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (LVEDD) (OR = 1.15, 95% CI [1.04, 1.28], P = 0.006), left atrial anteroposterior diameter (LAD) (OR = 1.13, 95% CI [1.03, 1.24], P = 0.012), and maximum left ventricular wall thickness (MLVWT) (OR = 0.80, 95% CI [0.68, 0.93], P = 0.005). Among the 50 patients with ES‐HCM, NYHA class (P < 0.001) and heart rate (P = 0.017) were each associated with a higher likelihood and earlier occurrence of heart transplantation or all‐cause mortality in univariate analyses.

Conclusions

The influencing factors for ES‐HCM included the age at first symptom onset, NYHA class, heart rate, QRS duration, LVEDD, LAD, and MLVWT. Both NYHA class and heart rate were related to the prognosis of ES‐HCM.
Experimental implementation of the nonstructural element simulator on shake table (NEST) for an archetype tall building
Authors: Cao Yuteng , Fu Haoran , Qu Zhe
Published: August 2024

Nonstructural damage, usually predominates in buildings subjected to low to moderate seismic intensities and contributes significantly to business interruption and economic losses. It promotes a rapidly growing need for experimental research and qualification of various types of nonstructural elements in buildings in the recent decades. To provide a novel option of experimentally simulating the realistic boundary conditions for various nonstructural elements in labs, we developed the Nonstructural Element Simulator on Shake Table (NEST), a passively controlled three‐layer substructural testbed driven by existing shake tables. This paper presents the first experimental implementation of NEST on a challenging 42‐story archetype tall building. The dynamic properties of the substructure were tuned to adapt the archetype building and the required shake table motions were solved as a reverse problem by an open‐loop control algorithm. The test results proved the capability of NEST to replicate the history responses of the target floors in the archetype building under either recorded earthquake ground motion or artificial loading protocols for qualification purposes. In all cases, the synthetic relative error in the floor accelerations and the inter‐story drift within the frequency range of interest was less than 5% in the numerical domain and less than 30% in the physical realization. The seismic responses of a variety of nonstructural elements to the substructural motions show that, in the mid‐story of the archetype tall building, the ceiling sustained minimum damage because of the small floor acceleration while the indoor contents slid significantly and even overturned.
Synergistic integration of nickel, porous silicon, and thermally reduced graphene oxide for solid‐state hydrogen energy storage
Authors: Muduli Rama Chandra , Nishad Neeraj Kumar , Dashbabu Dinesh , Emadabathuni Anil Kumar , Kale Paresh
Published: August 2024

Solid‐state hydrogen storage using metal hydrides offers the potential for high energy storage capacities. However, the requirement for high‐temperature operations (above 400°C) and challenges with heat exchange are significant drawbacks. From this perspective, adsorption on porous materials presents a viable solution to these challenges. Carbon nanostructures, such as graphene and graphene oxide (GO) derivatives, are well‐suited for hydrogen storage because of their lightweight nature, low density, and large surface area. However, the primary obstacle for practical applications is the poor storage capacity of carbon nanostructures under ambient conditions. Utilizing a cost‐effective transition element such as nickel as a catalyst offers significant potential for storing hydrogen in atomic and molecular forms by invoking the spillover mechanism. Thermally reduced graphene oxide (TrGO) modifies the surface, providing abundant active sites that attract hydrogen effectively. Porous silicon (PS) enhances the surface properties of graphene sheets, attracting hydrogen to the surface. The current study assesses a synthesized TrGO, PS, and Ni composition to leverage their individual properties for hydrogen storage. Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy examines the sheet structure of TrGO (used as the host material) and the incorporation of PS and Ni on its surface. The calculated specific surface area of TrGO is ~450 m2 g−1. X‐ray diffraction is used to identify the various phases in the composition, while Raman spectroscopy measures the degree of disorder within the composition. The pressure‐composition isotherms reveal hydrogen storage capacities of ~6.53 wt% for the TrGO + PS composition and ~2.43 wt% for the TrGO + PS + Ni composition. Despite the decrease in weight percentage of TrGO + PS + Ni due to the higher Ni content, dissociation enhances the adsorption rate from 0.35 to 0.53 wt% h−1.
Preventing radiation‐induced dysphagia and trismus in head and neck cancer—A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Petersson Kerstin , Finizia Caterina , Pauli Nina , Tuomi Lisa
Published: August 2024

Background

Radiation‐induced dysphagia and restricted mouth opening are common problems among patients with head and neck cancer. The aim of the present randomized controlled trial was to determine if an exercise protocol could prevent swallowing and mouth opening impairment.

Methods

Eighty‐nine participants were randomly assigned to either an active group performing preventive swallowing and mouth opening exercises (n = 45) or to a control group (n = 44). Outcome measures were collected at baseline before radiotherapy and approximately 1‐month post‐treatment. Primary endpoints were changes in swallowing function according to the Penetration Aspiration Scale and mouth opening ability measured in millimeters. Intention‐to‐treat analysis was used.

Results

Swallowing function and mouth opening deteriorated in both groups, with no statistically significant positive effect of the protocol detected at follow‐up. Among patients who completed >75% of exercises, there was a trend toward better outcomes.

Conclusions

Preventive exercises did not improve short‐term swallowing function and mouth opening after radiotherapy.
Preoperative ultrasonography parathyroid gland mapping can improve identification of normal parathyroid gland during thyroidectomy: A propensity score‐matched case–control study
Authors: Yoon Kwang Hyun , Lee Jong Cheol , Song Yong Jin , Kim Won Jun , Shim Myoung Sook , Kim Ha Young , Kim Jin Yub , Noh Byeong‐Joo , Na Dong Gyu
Published: August 2024

Background

Accurate intraoperative identification of normal parathyroid glands (PTGs) is vital to avoid hypocalcemia post total thyroidectomy. Although ultrasonography (US) has been shown to identify normal PTGs, the significance of preoperative US PTG mapping in this context is not well studied. This study evaluated the impact of preoperative US PTG mapping on intraoperative identification of normal PTGs during total thyroidectomy.

Methods

The study involved 161 consecutive patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between January 2020 and June 2022. These included patients without preoperative US PTG mapping (group 1, n = 91) and those with the mapping (group 2, n = 70). Propensity score matching yielded 61 matched patients from each group. We developed a preoperative US PTG mapping technique combining US identification of normal PTGs with their localization on thyroid CT images. The intraoperative detectability of normal PTGs during thyroid surgery and detectability of normal PTGs by the preoperative US mapping were assessed by the number of PTGs identified per patient and by location.

Results

In the matched cohort, group 2 demonstrated a higher median number of identified PTGs (3 vs. 2, p = 0.011), a greater proportion of patients with three or more identified PTGs (65.5% vs. 44.3%, p = 0.018), and a higher ratio of identified to expected PTGs (70.5% vs. 60.2%, p = 0.011) than group 1. In group 2, the median number of normal PTGs identified preoperatively was 3, with at least one identified in 95.7% of patients, two or more in 84.3%, three or more in 52.9%, and four or five in 24.3%.

Conclusions

Preoperative US PTG mapping identified two or more normal PTGs in the majority of adult patients undergoing total thyroidectomy. Those with preoperative mapping showed a higher number of intraoperatively identified normal PTGs, including inferior PTGs, compared to those without. This technique appears to enhance the intraoperative identification of normal PTGs, thereby potentially improving surgical outcomes in total thyroidectomy.
Identification of key genes with abnormal RNA methylation modification and selected m6A regulators in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Wu Fengqing , Huang Hongbin , Sun Deyang , Cai Bingbing , Zhou Huateng , Quan Renfu , Yang Huan
Published: August 2024

Background

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) has been identified as the most abundant modification of RNA molecules and the aberrant m6A modifications have been associated with the development of autoimmune diseases. However, the role of m6A modification in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) has not been adequately investigated. Therefore, we aimed to explore the significance of m6A regulator‐mediated RNA methylation in AS.

Methods

The methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (meRIP‐seq) and digital RNA sequencing (Digital RNA‐seq) were conducted using the peripheral blood mononuclear cells from three AS cases and three healthy controls, to identify genes affected by abnormal RNA methylation. The genes associated with different peaks were cross‐referenced with AS‐related genes obtained from the GeneCards Suite. Subsequently, the expression levels of shared differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and key m6A regulators in AS were evaluated using data from 68 AS cases and 36 healthy controls from two data sets (GSE25101 and GSE73754). In addition, the results were validated through quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results

The meRIP‐seq and Digital RNA‐seq analyses identified 28 genes with upregulated m6A peaks but with downregulated expression, and 52 genes with downregulated m6A peaks but with upregulated expression. By intersecting the genes associated with different peaks with 2184 AS‐related genes from the GeneCards Suite, we identified a total of five shared DEGs: BCL11B, KAT6B, IL1R1, TRIB1, and ALDH2. Through analysis of the data sets and qPCR, we found that BCL11B and IL1R1 were differentially expressed in AS. Moreover, two key m6A regulators, WTAP and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C, were identified.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the current study revealed that m6A modification plays a crucial role in AS and might hence provide a new treatment strategy for AS disease.
Association between the systemic immune‐inflammation index and erectile dysfunction: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chen Di , Chen Fuchang , Luo Quanhai , Fan Wenji , Chen Changsheng , Liu Gang
Published: August 2024

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is associated with inflammation. The systematic immune‐inflammation index (SII), as a new inflammation marker, was applied to predict the risk of diseases. However, no research explores the relationship between SII and ED. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the association between SII and ED.

Methods

Related data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001−2004. Based on self‐report, all participants were classified into ED and non‐ED group. Weighted multivariate regression analysis the relationship between categorical SII and ED in unadjusted and adjusted models. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was used to examine the association of continuous SII and ED risk. Furthermore, the association between categorical SII and the risk of ED was evaluated among subgroups of age, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Finally, weighted multivariate regression analysis and RCS were performed to assessed the connection between SII and the risk of severe ED.

Results

Initially, data on 21,161 participants were obtained. After implementing the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 3436 participants were included in analyses. Weighted multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that Q4 group SII was associated with an increased risk of ED (OR = 1.03, 95% confidence intervals: 1.00−1.05, p = .03). RCS showed SII was nonlinearly associated with the risk of ED, and the inflection point of SII was at 485.530. In addition, subgroup analyses demonstrated that participants in the SII > 485.530 group had a higher ED risk than SII ≤ 485.530 group among subgroups of age ≥50, hypertension, and non‐diabetes. Weighted multivariate regression analysis and RCS found no relationship of SII and the risk of severe ED.

Conclusion

In US adults, SII > 485.530 was correlated with an increased risk of ED. While, no significant association between SII and severe ED risk. Additional studies are required to support our results.
Climate risk and trade credit financing: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Jinyu , Guo Xinyu , Geng Yuan , Liu Ran
Published: August 2024

Using A‐share listed firms from 2009 to 2020 as a research sample, this study constructs firm‐level climate risk through textual analysis to examine whether and how corporate climate risk affect trade credit financing. The empirical results show that increased climate risk inhibits the level of trade credit financing of firms. The results are more prominent for those enterprises without government‐enterprise linkages and firms in cities with high levels of environmental regulation intensity and low levels of city trust. Furthermore, mechanism tests suggest that operational risk and information asymmetry are the main channels affecting the above relationships. In addition, we find that the negative impact of climate risk on trade credit financing will weaken firm value. This paper enriches the research on the impact of climate risk on microeconomic agents and provides new perspectives to alleviate corporate financing constraints.
lncRNAs: New players of cancer drug resistance via targeting ABC transporters
Authors: Ebrahimnezhad Mohammad , Asl Sanaz Hassanzadeh , Rezaie Maede , Molavand Mehran , Yousefi Bahman , Majidinia Maryam
Published: August 2024

Cancer drug resistance poses a significant obstacle to successful chemotherapy, primarily driven by the activity of ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters, which actively efflux chemotherapeutic agents from cancer cells, reducing their intracellular concentrations and therapeutic efficacy. Recent studies have highlighted the pivotal role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in regulating this resistance, positioning them as crucial modulators of ABC transporter function. lncRNAs, once considered transcriptional noise, are now recognized for their complex regulatory capabilities at various cellular levels, including chromatin modification, transcription, and post‐transcriptional processing. This review synthesizes current research demonstrating how lncRNAs influence cancer drug resistance by modulating the expression and activity of ABC transporters. lncRNAs can act as molecular sponges, sequestering microRNAs that would otherwise downregulate ABC transporter genes. Additionally, they can alter the epigenetic landscape of these genes, affecting their transcriptional activity. Mechanistic insights reveal that lncRNAs contribute to the activity of ABC transporters, thereby altering the efflux of chemotherapeutic drugs and promoting drug resistance. Understanding these interactions provides a new perspective on the molecular basis of chemoresistance, emphasizing the regulatory network of lncRNAs and ABC transporters. This knowledge not only deepens our understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying drug resistance but also suggests novel therapeutic strategies. In conclusion, the intricate interplay between lncRNAs and ABC transporters is crucial for developing innovative solutions to combat cancer drug resistance, underscoring the importance of continued research in this field.
Neuregulin 4 Attenuates Podocyte Injury and Proteinuria in Part by Activating AMPK/mTOR‐Mediated Autophagy in Mice
Authors: Deng Juntian , Yang Qiansheng , Zhu Wanyu , Zhang Yanhua , Lin Meng , She Juyan , Li Jing , Xiao Yuxin , Xiao Jun , Xu Xinyue , He Hebei , Zhu Biao , Ding Yan
Published: August 2024

In this study, we investigate the effect of neuregulin 4 (NRG4) on podocyte damage in a mouse model of diabetic nephropathy (DN) and we elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. In vivo experiments were conducted using a C57BL/6 mouse model of DN to determine the effect of NRG4 on proteinuria and podocyte injury, and in vitro experiments were performed with conditionally immortalized mouse podocytes treated with high glucose and NRG4 to assess the protective effects of NRG4 on podocyte injury. Autophagy‐related protein levels and related signaling pathways were evaluated both in vivo and in vitro. The involvement of the adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway was detected using chloroquine or AMPK inhibitors. The results showed that the AMPK/mTOR pathway was involved in the protective roles of NRG4 against high glucose‐mediated podocyte injury. Also, NRG4 significantly decreased albuminuria in DN mice. PAS staining indicated that NRG4 mitigated glomerular volume and mesangium expansion in DN mice. Consistently, western blot and RT‐PCR analyses confirmed that NRG4 decreased the expression of pro‐fibrotic molecules in the glomeruli of DN mice. The immunofluorescence results showed that NRG4 retained expression of podocin and nephrin, whereas transmission electron microscopy revealed that NRG4 alleviated podocyte injury. In DN mice, NRG4 decreased podocyte apoptosis and increased expression of nephrin and podocin, while decreasing the expression of desmin and HIF1α. Overall, NRG4 improved albuminuria, glomerulosclerosis, glomerulomegaly, and hypoxia in DN mice. The in vitro experiments showed that NRG4 inhibited HG‐induced podocyte injury and apoptosis. Furthermore, autophagy of the glomeruli decreased in DN mice, but reactivated following NRG4 intervention. NRG4 intervention was found to partially activate autophagy via the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. Consequently, when the AMPK/mTOR pathway was suppressed or autophagy was inhibited, the beneficial effects of NRG4 intervention on podocyte injury were diminished. These results indicate that NRG4 intervention attenuates podocyte injury and apoptosis by promoting autophagy in the kidneys of DN mice, in part, by activating the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.
Enhanced prognostic evaluation of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: A comprehensive surveillance study incorporating Epstein–Barr virus infection status and immunohistochemical markers
Authors: Zeng Meichun , Jia Qingjun , Chen Jingjing
Published: August 2024

Emerging biologic subsets and new prognostic markers are significantly important for aggressive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Nevertheless, the high cost of testing limits the availability of these tests in most hospitals, thus making prognostic judgment based on basic immunohistochemical testing, whole blood Epstein–Barr virus DNA (WBEBV) surveillance and clinical features advantageous for hospitals and patients with poor medical conditions. We included 647 DLBCL patients treated in our hospital from January 2009 to March 2023. Non‐germinal center B‐cell like, Ki‐67, and International Prognostic Index (IPI) scores were related to cMYC/B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2)‐double expression. Age, Epstein–Barr virus‐encoded small RNA (EBER) positivity, and IPI scores were associated with mortality. The cutoffs for differential overall survival (OS) of age, WBEBV, Bcl‐2, and cMYC were 57 years, 1514 copies/mL (baseline), 5.89 × 104 copies/mL (treatment), 40%, and 55%, respectively. EBER positivity was significantly associated with a worse OS. Patients with newly defined DE (Bcl‐2 ≥ 40 and cMYC > 55) had a worse prognosis than controls (p = 0.04). We found that cMYC with an optimal cutoff of 47.5 could effectively predict high‐grade DLBCL with an area under the curve of 0.912, and the specificity and sensitivity were 70.7% and 100%, respectively. Our study provides valuable insights into the prognostic factors and biomarker cutoffs that influence OS in DLBCL patients, which may guide clinicians in tailoring treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.
People living with HIV co‐infected with the Kaposi Sarcoma‐associated Herpes Virus have a distinct HIV Tat profile and higher rates of antiretroviral virologic failure, more evident among those with Kaposi's sarcoma
Authors: Suterio Dalila G. , Hunter James R. , Tenore Simone B. , Pimentel Sidnei R. , Galinskas Juliana , Dias Danilo A. , Bellini Débora C. , Ferreira Paulo A. , Diaz Ricardo Sobhie
Published: August 2024

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a neoplasm of vascular origin that promotes angiogenesis and the growth of endothelial cells triggered by the Kaposi Sarcoma‐associated Herpes Virus (KSHV). When associated with HIV, KSHV becomes more aggressive and rapidly evolves. The HIV‐1 TAT protein can be essential in developing AIDS‐associated KS by promoting angiogenesis and increasing KSHV replication. Therefore, we evaluated the genetic profile of the first exon of tat gene among groups of people living with HIV (PLHIV) with (case group, n = 36) or without KS, this later with (positive control group, n = 46) and without KSHV infection (negative control group, n = 24); all individuals under antiretroviral therapy. The genetic diversity, the DN/DS ratio, and the genetic entropy of the first exon of tat were higher in the case group, followed by the positive control group, which was higher than the negative control group. The number of tat codons under positive selection was seven in the case group, six in the positive control group, and one in the negative control group. The prevalence of HIV viral loads below the detection limit was equal in the case and positive control groups, which were lower than in the negative control group. The mean CD4+ T cell counts were higher in the negative control group, followed by the positive control group, and followed by the case group. These results emphasize the negative influence of KSHV in antiretroviral treatment, as well as the HIV‐specific TAT profile among PLHIV who developed KS.
Anti‐oxidant activity of 1‐(1H‐imidazo[4,5‐c]pyridin‐4‐yl)ethenone, a Maillard reaction product derived from fructose and histidine
Authors: Zhao Kangyu , Long Xin , Li Junle , Wang Ying , Lan Ping , Wang Yong
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The Maillard reaction involves the interaction of various amino acids and reducing sugars, resulting in food browning. It often produces appealing aromas and flavors. The complexities of the reaction are such that it can be challenging to identify the often numerous and frequently volatile products formed by it. In the present study, we sought to identify and evaluate an unusual product with anti‐oxidant activity arising from a fructose‐histidine Maillard reaction model. The anti‐oxidant profile of this product was assessed by computational means.

RESULTS

The fructose‐histidine Maillard reaction products (FH‐MRPs) were generated by heating a 2:1 mixture of the sugar and the amino acid at 140 °C for 2 h. Chromatographically separable fractions, labelled DM‐1 to DM‐8, were obtained using silica gel as the stationary phase and dichloromethane/methanol (DCM/MeOH) mixtures as the mobile one. Fraction DM‐5 exhibited the highest 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, and further bio‐assay guided fractionation led to isolation and identification of 1‐(1H‐imidazo[4,5‐c]pyridin‐4‐yl)ethenone (IMPE) as the active principal, the structure of which was established by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic and mass spectral techniques. A mechanism for the formation of IMPE from its precursors is proposed. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest this novel heterocyclic compound exerts its anti‐oxidant effects by interacting with DPPH and 2,2'‐Azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals. Essentially, IMPE was non‐toxic below 300 ug mL−1, showing a concentration‐dependent free radical clearance capacity and reducing power within the 100–1000 μg mL−1 range, and moreover, exhibiting significant Fe2+ chelating abilities wihin the 50‐200 μg mL−1 range.

CONCLUSION

This study identified the unique FH‐MRP, IMPE, and found that it acts as food antioxidant through the chelation of metal ions. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Screening and isolation of quorum sensing inhibitors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Phellodendron amurense extracts using bio‐affinity chromatography
Authors: Yi Yu , Zhou Ye , Lin Susu , Shi Kefan , Mei Jianfeng , Ying Guoqing , Wu Shujiang
Published: August 2024

Drug‐resistant bacterial infections pose a significant challenge in the field of bacterial disease treatment. Finding new antibacterial pathways and targets to combat drug‐resistant bacteria is crucial. The bacterial quorum sensing (QS) system regulates the expression of bacterial virulence factors. Inhibiting bacterial QS and reducing bacterial virulence can achieve antibacterial therapeutic effects, making QS inhibition an effective strategy to control bacterial pathogenicity. This article mainly focused on the PqsA protein in the QS system of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. An affinity chromatography medium was developed using the SpyTag/SpyCatcher heteropeptide bond system. Berberine, which can interact with the PqsA target, was screened from Phellodendron amurense by affinity chromatography. We characterized its structure, verified its inhibitory activity on P. aeruginosa, and preliminarily analyzed its mechanism using molecular docking technology. This method can also be widely applied to the immobilization of various protein targets and the effective screening of active substances.
Preparation of Water‐Soluble Polyion Complex (PIC) Micelles with pH‐Responsive Carboxybetaine Block
Authors: Yokota Kaito , Takahashi Rintaro , Ngan Vu Thi , Nishimura Tomoya , Kappl Michael , Fujii Syuji , Yusa Shin‐ichi
Published: August 2024

A dual zwitterionic diblock copolymer (M100C100) consisting of poly(2‐(methacryloyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC, M) and poly(3‐((2‐(methacryloyloxy)ethyl) dimethylammonio) propionate) (PCBMA, C) is synthesized via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. A double hydrophilic diblock copolymer (M100S100) consist of PMPC and anionic poly(3‐sulfopropyl methacrylate potassium salt) (PMPS, S) is synthesized via RAFT. The degrees of polymerization of each block are 100. The charges of PMPC are neutralized intramolecularly. At neutral pH, the charges in PCBMA are also neutralized intramolecularly due to its carboxybetaine structure. Under acidic conditions, PCBMA exhibits polycation behavior as the pendant carboxy groups become protonated, forming cationic tertiary amine groups. PMPS shows permanent anionic nature independent of pH. Charge neutralized mixture of cationic M100C100 and anionic M100S100 in acidic aqueous solution forms water‐soluble polyion complex (PIC) micelle owing to electrostatic attractive interactions. The core is composed of the cationic PCBMA and anionic PMPS blocks, with the PMPC blocks serving as shells that covered the core surface, forming spherical core–shell PIC micelles. Above pH 4 the pendant carboxy groups in PCBMA undergo deprotonation, transitioning to a zwitterionic state, thereby eliminating the cationic charge in PCBMA. Therefore, above pH 4 the PIC micelles are dissociated due to the disappearance of the charge interactions.
Sales mode selection considering the consumer reference quality effect
Authors: Qiu Ruozhen , Yu Yue , Sun Minghe
Published: August 2024

This work investigates a two‐tier supply chain in which a supplier adjusts product quality and prices and distributes the products through a retailer or directly to consumers with the reference quality (RQ) effect. The supplier can choose from three, that is, traditional sales (TS), dual‐channel (DC), and online‐to‐offline (O2O), sales modes. In the O2O sales mode, the retailer is allowed to open an online channel. The market demands are determined by the consumer utility consisting of two parts, a part depending on the consumer RQ effect and the other depending on the retail price and product quality. The profit maximization, that is, the Stackelberg game, models involving the consumer RQ effect are developed using prospect theory, wherein the supplier has the first mover advantage. The analytical optimal solutions are obtained through backward induction. The optimal quality and pricing decisions and the optimal profits of the supply chain members are compared among the three sales modes. A practical application is analyzed to verify the theoretical results of the proposed models. The results show that the consumer RQ effect benefits the two supply chain members under certain conditions. The optimal quality and pricing decisions are significantly affected by the consumer RQ effect except those of the supplier under the O2O sales mode. When consumers have the RQ effect, the DC sales mode is the best choice for the supplier, is a win–win mode for the two supply chain members under certain conditions, and benefits the consumers the most among the three sales modes.
Does digital transformation promote supply chain efficiency? Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Chi Guodong
Published: August 2024

With the deepening of industrial division of labor, supply chain efficiency has become a critical driver of companies' core competitiveness. Using a sample of Chinese A‐share listed companies from 2007 to 2023, this paper empirically investigates the impact of digital transformation on supply chain efficiency. We find that firms with a higher degree of digital transformation are associated with higher supply chain efficiency. Mechanism tests show that digital transformation facilitates supply chain efficiency via lower customer demand uncertainty as well as raw material disruption risk. The positive effect of digital transformation is more pronounced for non‐state‐owned enterprises and for firms with less stable customers and more geographically dispersed suppliers. Moreover, there is much degree prompt in supply chain efficiency for firms located in a better digital environment. This paper sheds light on how digital transformation influences supply chain efficiency and provides significant insights for firms to improve supply chain efficiency.
Compatibility of space‐time kernels with full, dynamical, or compact support
Authors: Faouzi Tarik , Furrer Reinhard , Porcu Emilio
Published: August 2024

This paper deals with compatibility of space‐time kernels with (either) full, spatially dynamical, or space‐time compact support. We deal with the dilemma of statistical accuracy versus computational scalability, which are in a notorious trade‐off. Apparently, models with full support ensure maximal information but are computationally expensive, while compactly supported models achieve computational scalability at the expense of loss of information. Hence, an inspection of whether these models might be compatible is necessary. The criterion we use for such an inspection is based on equivalence of Gaussian measures. We provide sufficient conditions for space‐time compatibility. As a corollary, we deduce implications in terms of maximum likelihood estimation and misspecified kriging prediction under fixed domain asymptotics. Some results of independent interest relate about the space‐time spectrum associated with the classes of kernels proposed in the paper.
Aqueous Extract of Wolfberry Alleviates Aging‐Related Skeletal Muscle Dysfunction by Modulating PRRs Signaling Pathways and Enhancing DNA Repair
Authors: Zheng Qingwei , Chen Xiaofang , AL‐Ansi Waleed , Fan Mingcong , Qian Haifeng , Wang Li , Li Yan
Published: August 2024

Aging can lead to a series of degenerative changes in skeletal muscle, which would negatively impact physical activity and the quality of life of the elderly. Wolfberry contains numerous bioactive substances. It's vital to further explore the mechanisms underlying its healthy effects on skeletal muscle function during aging progress. This study discusses the benefits and mechanisms of aqueous extract of wolfberry (AEW) to protect skeletal muscle from aging‐related persistent DNA damage based on its anti‐inflammatory activity. It is found that AEW improves muscle mass, strength, and endurance, modulates the expression of Atrogin‐1, MyH, and MuRF‐1, and decreases oxidative stress and inflammation levels in aging mice, which is consistent with the in vitro results. Mechanistically, AEW inhibits the pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) pathway induced by inflammatory gene activation, suggesting its potential in response to DNA damage. AEW is also observed to mitigate chromatin decompaction. Network pharmacology is conducted to analyze the potential targets of AEW in promoting DNA repair. In conclusion, the study shows the anti‐aging effects of AEW on skeletal muscle by promoting DNA repair and reducing the transcriptional activity of inflammatory factors. AEW intake may become a potential strategy for strengthening skeletal muscle function in the elderly.
Quality and Readability of Noise‐Induced Hearing Loss Prevention‐Related Websites
Authors: Howard Tyler , Willgruber Abbigayle , Kinealy Brian , Adkins David , Jones Raleigh , Bush Matthew
Published: August 2024

Objective

This cross‐sectional website analysis aimed to determine the readability and quality of English and Spanish websites pertaining to the prevention of noise‐induced hearing loss.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional website analysis.

Setting

Various online search engines.

Methods

We queried four popular search engines using the term “noise‐induced hearing loss prevention” to reveal the top 50 English and top 50 Spanish websites for data collection. Websites meeting inclusion criteria were stratified based on the presence of a Health on the Net Code certificate (independent assessment of honesty, reliability, and quality). Websites were then independently reviewed by experts using the DISCERN criteria in order to assess information quality. Readability was calculated using the Flesch reading ease score for English and the Fernandez‐Huerta formula for Spanish websites.

Results

Thirty‐six English websites and 32 Spanish websites met the inclusion criteria. English websites had significantly lower readability (average = 56.34, SD = 11.17) compared to Spanish websites (average = 61.88, SD = 5.33) (P < .05). Spanish websites (average = 37, SD = 8.47) were also of significantly higher quality than English websites (average = 25.13, SD = 10.11).

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the importance of providing quality and readable materials to patients seeking information about noise‐induced hearing loss prevention. All of the English and Spanish websites reviewed were written at a level higher than the American Medical Association‐recommended sixth‐grade reading level. The study also highlights the need for evidence‐based information online provided by experts in our field.
Validation of a Major and Clinically Relevant Nonmajor Bleeding Phenotyping Algorithm on Electronic Health Records
Authors: Yap Aaron Jun Yi , Teo Desmond Chun Hwee , Ang Pei San , Yap Eng Soo , Tan Siew Har , Loke Celine Wei Ping , Dorajoo Sreemanee Raaj
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Bleeding is an important health outcome of interest in epidemiological studies. We aimed to develop and validate rule‐based algorithms to identify (1) major bleeding and (2) all clinically relevant bleeding (CRB) (composite of major and all clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding) within real‐world electronic healthcare data.

Methods

We took a random sample (n = 1630) of inpatient admissions to Singapore public healthcare institutions in 2019 and 2020, stratifying by hospital and year. We included patients of all age groups, sex, and ethnicities. Presence of major bleeding and CRB were ascertained by two annotators through chart review. A total of 630 and 1000 records were used for algorithm development and validation, respectively. We formulated two algorithms: sensitivity‐ and positive predictive value (PPV)‐optimized algorithms. A combination of hemoglobin test patterns and diagnosis codes were used in the final algorithms.

Results

During validation, diagnosis codes alone yielded low sensitivities for major bleeding (0.16) and CRB (0.24), although specificities and PPV were high (>0.97). For major bleeding, the sensitivity‐optimized algorithm had much higher sensitivity and negative predictive values (NPVs) (sensitivity = 0.94, NPV = 1.00), however false positive rates were also relatively high (specificity = 0.90, PPV = 0.34). PPV‐optimized algorithm had improved specificity and PPV (specificity = 0.96, PPV = 0.52), with little reduction in sensitivity and NPV (sensitivity = 0.88, NPV = 0.99). For CRB events, our algorithms had lower sensitivities (0.50–0.56).

Conclusions

The use of diagnosis codes alone misses many genuine major bleeding events. We have developed major bleeding algorithms with high sensitivities, which can ascertain events within populations of interest.
Adverse Menstrual Events Reported After and Before (or Without) COVID‐19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Comparative Observational Studies
Authors: Peinemann Frank , Oberle Doris , Drechsel‐Bäuerle Ursula , Keller‐Stanislawski Brigitte
Published: August 2024

Background

Reports of adverse menstrual events emerged during the COVID‐19 vaccination campaign in multiple countries. This raised the question whether these reports were caused by the vaccines. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate comparative studies on this topic (registered at PROSPERO [CRD42022324973]).

Methods

We included observational studies such as cohort studies and surveys comparing the response to self‐reported questionnaires between post‐ versus pre‐vaccination data. PubMed and Cochrane Library searches were conducted on 1 September 2023. The primary outcome was the incidence of any prespecified adverse menstrual event, and the outcome measure was the risk ratio. The meta‐analysis was conducted by using the Mantel–Haenszel method and the random effects model. We summarized the results on risk factors as well as key findings of the studies included.

Results

We retrieved 161 references from electronic databases and additional sources such as references lists. Of those, we considered 21 comparative observational studies. The meta‐analysis of any adverse menstrual adverse event reported in 12 studies resulted in a pooled estimate (risk ratio 1.13; 95% CI, 0.96–1.31) that did not favor any group. The analysis was constrained by considerable clinical and statistical heterogeneity. Risk factors for self‐reported menstrual changes included a history of COVID‐19 infection, the concern about COVID‐19 vaccines, smoking, previous cycle irregularities, depression, and stress, and other issues.

Conclusions

The risk ratio did not favor any group and heterogeneity was prevalent among the studies. Most studies suggested that the reported changes were temporary, minor, and nonserious.
Enhancement in the impact and torsional properties of 3D‐printed biocompatible poly(lactic acid) locking bone plates: sustainable integration into healthcare applications
Authors: Sharma Shrutika , Gupta Vishal , Mudgal Deepa
Published: August 2024

Locking bone plates (LoBPs) are utilized in orthopedic surgeries for supporting segments of distal ulna fracture. Primarily constructed from metallic biomaterials that are much stiffer than natural bone, LoBPs result in stress shielding and are prone to corrosion. As a result, there has been a growing preference for biocompatible and biodegradable polymeric biomaterials for creating patient‐specific implants using 3D printing. Among various biomaterials, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) stands out due to its favorable biocompatibility and biodegradability. The layer‐by‐layer deposition in this process raises issues about layer bonding, reducing the mechanical strength of the implants. Nevertheless, adjusting process parameters can enhance the mechanical strength of the produced parts. The current study aimed to examine the influence of printing parameters on the impact strength and torque withstanding ability of biocompatible and biodegradable PLA‐based LoBPs using response surface methodology. The experimental results reveal that an increase in infill density and wall thickness minimize porosity and enhance inter‐layer bonding, imparting high impact and torsional resistance against forces. Conversely, an increase in layer height and printing speed induces porosity, leading to early fracture of layers under sudden impact and torsional forces. The fractured surface morphology of LoBPs after impact and torsional testing was analyzed using SEM. The MATLAB‐based optimization yielded maximum impact strength and torque values of 27.175 kJ m−2 and 3644 N mm, respectively. The study underscores the potential of biocompatible and biodegradable PLA‐based 3D‐printed LoBPs for sustainable integration into biomedical applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Deep phosphotyrosine characterisation of primary murine T cells using broad spectrum optimisation of selective triggering
Authors: Callahan Aurora , Chua Xien Yu , Griffith Alijah A. , Hildebrandt Tobias , Fu Guoping , Hu Mengzhou , Wen Renren , Salomon Arthur R.
Published: August 2024

Sequencing the tyrosine phosphoproteome using MS‐based proteomics is challenging due to the low abundance of tyrosine phosphorylation in cells, a challenge compounded in scarce samples like primary cells or clinical samples. The broad‐spectrum optimisation of selective triggering (BOOST) method was recently developed to increase phosphotyrosine sequencing in low protein input samples by leveraging tandem mass tags (TMT), phosphotyrosine enrichment, and a phosphotyrosine‐loaded carrier channel. Here, we demonstrate the viability of BOOST in T cell receptor (TCR)‐stimulated primary murine T cells by benchmarking the accuracy and precision of the BOOST method and discerning significant alterations in the phosphoproteome associated with receptor stimulation. Using 1 mg of protein input (about 20 million cells) and BOOST, we identify and precisely quantify more than 2000 unique pY sites compared to about 300 unique pY sites in non‐BOOST control samples. We show that although replicate variation increases when using the BOOST method, BOOST does not jeopardise quantitative precision or the ability to determine statistical significance for peptides measured in triplicate. Many pY previously uncharacterised sites on important T cell signalling proteins are quantified using BOOST, and we identify new TCR responsive pY sites observable only with BOOST. Finally, we determine that the phase‐spectrum deconvolution method on Orbitrap instruments can impair pY quantitation in BOOST experiments.