bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood pressure levels and adverse cardiovascular outcomes in heart failure: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Seidu Samuel , Lawson Claire A. , Kunutsor Setor K. , Khunti Kamlesh , Rosano Giuseppe M.C.
Published: January 2024

Aim

Existing data on the association between blood pressure levels and adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF) are inconsistent. The optimal blood pressure targets for patients with HF remain uncertain. This study sought to assess the associations between blood pressure (systolic [SBP] and diastolic blood pressure [DBP]) levels and adverse cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes in patients with HF.

Methods and results

A systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases up to 5 May 2023. The outcomes of interest included adverse cardiovascular events and all‐cause mortality. Pooled relative risks (RRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Forty‐three unique observational cohort studies, comprising 120 643 participants with HF, were included. The pooled RRs (95% CIs) for SBP thresholds of ≥140 mmHg versus <140 mmHg were 0.92 (0.83–1.01) for all‐cause mortality, 0.83 (0.67–1.04) for CVD death, and 0.98 (0.80–1.21) for HF hospitalization. The pooled RR (95% CI) for SBP thresholds of ≥160 mmHg versus <160 mmHg and all‐cause mortality was 0.67 (0.62–0.74). SBP levels below <130, <120, and <110 mmHg were each associated with an increased risk of various cardiovascular endpoints and all‐cause mortality. The pooled RR (95% CI) for DBP thresholds of ≥80 mmHg versus <80 mmHg and all‐cause mortality was 0.86 (0.67–1.10). A 10 mmHg increase in SBP or DBP was associated with a reduction in all‐cause mortality and other cardiovascular endpoints.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that lower and normal baseline SBP levels (<130, <120, and <110 mmHg) may be associated with future risk of worse outcomes in patients with HF. Optimal baseline blood pressure levels for these patients may lie within the range of ≥140 mmHg for SBP. In the absence of observational studies with repeated blood pressure measurements or definitive trials evaluating optimal blood pressure targets, individualized blood pressure targets based on patients' unique circumstances are warranted in HF management.
Unveiling the correlation between structural alterations and enhanced high‐voltage cyclability in Na‐deficient P3‐type layered cathode materials via Li incorporation
Authors: Yang Xiaoxia , Wang Suning , Li Hang , Tseng Jochi , Wu Zhonghua , Indris Sylvio , Ehrenberg Helmut , Guo Xiaodong , Hua Weibo
Published: January 2024

With exceptional capacity during high‐voltage cycling, P3‐type Na‐deficient layered oxide cathodes have captured substantial attention. Nevertheless, they are plagued by severe capacity degradation over cycling. In this study, tuning and optimizing the phase composition in layered oxides through Li incorporation are proposed to enhance the high‐voltage stability. The structural dependence of layered Na2/3LixNi0.25Mn0.75O2+δ oxides on the lithium content (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) offered during synthesis is investigated systematically on an atomic scale. Surprisingly, increasing the Li content triggers the formation of mixed P2/O3‐type or P3/P2/O3‐type layered phases. As the voltage window is 1.5–4.5 V, P3‐type Na2/3Ni0.25Mn0.75O2 (NL0.0NMO, Rm) material exhibits a sequence of phase transformations throughout the process of (de)sodiation, that is, O3⇌P3⇌O3′⇌O3″. Such complicated phase transitions can be effectively suppressed in the Na2/3Li0.7Ni0.25Mn0.75O2.4 (NL0.7NMO) oxide with P2/P3/O3‐type mixed phases. Consequently, cathodes made of NL0.7NMO exhibit a substantially enhanced cyclic performance at high voltages compared to that of the P3‐type layered NL0.0NMO cathode. Specifically, NL0.7NMO demonstrates an outstanding capacity retention of 98% after 10 cycles at 1 C within 1.5–4.5 V, much higher than that of NL0.0NMO (83%). This work delves into the intricate realm of bolstering the high‐voltage durability of layered oxide cathodes, paving the way for advanced sodium‐ion battery technologies.
Thermodynamic and Economic Analysis of a Standalone Supercritical Thermal Power Plant Integrated with Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell
Authors: Deep Anke Pruthvi , Karmakar Sujit
Published: January 2024

A detailed technoeconomic analysis of a standalone steam cycle integrated with molten carbonate fuel cell and an organic Rankine cycle is presented herein. The modeling and thermodynamic analysis of the proposed plant is performed using a commercially available software tool called Cycle Tempo. The response surface methodology tool is employed to develop regression models to predict the plant's energy, exergy efficiencies, and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for varying independent factors: fuel utilization factor (uf) CO2 utilization factor (ϕ), and current density (i) of the fuel cell. The response surfaces developed from the models are used to conduct the parametric analyses on the plant. The desirability test performed for multiobjective optimization has shown the optimum plant configuration, with higher energy, exergy efficiencies, and a lower LCOE is obtained for uf = 0.85, ϕ = 60%, and i = 1000 A m−2 With an intent to reduce CO2 emissions, monoethanolamine‐based carbon capture system is implemented to the plant configuration, that exhibits maximum energy efficiency for ϕ = 90%, and results in an LCOE of 6.53 Rs kWh−1.
NOxemission reduction ofcoal‐firedpower plants through data‐driven model and particle swarm optimization
Authors: Abebe Misganaw , Seo Jin , Kang Young‐Jin , Choi Hyunho , Noh Yoojeong
Published: January 2024

Several studies have aimed to predict and control carbon emissions from coal‐fired power plants. However, the highly complex combustion mechanisms in coal‐fired power plant boilers pose a significant challenge in direct modeling and optimization. To tackle this challenge, this study introduced a data‐driven approach along with model‐based process optimization to mitigate NOx emissions from coal‐fired power plants. The process involved collecting a 5‐month operational dataset containing 67 controllable parameters from a 500 MW coal‐fired power plant. Steady‐state data was isolated from the load output using a moving average method, followed by the application of an isolation forest algorithm to detect and remove anomalies. Correlation analysis was then used to evaluate parameter relationships and eliminate redundant ones. Subsequently, a NOx prediction model was developed, combining an extra tree regressor data‐driven prediction model with particle swarm optimization to optimize the most influential controllable parameters for reducing NOx emissions. Testing the proposed model across four different target loads consistently resulted in a reduction of over 20% in NOx emissions by optimizing boiler combustion parameters, representing a significant achievement in optimizing coal‐fired combustion.
Subjective cognitive complaints and objective cognitive impairment in patients suspected of obstructive sleep apnea who underwent polysomnography
Authors: Rattanabannakit Chatchawan , Kuendee Sorawich , Tungwacharapong Pecharut , Pimolsri Chawanont , Senanarong Vorapun , Chotinaiwattarakul Wattanachai
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to cognitive impairment. We aimed to investigate subjective cognitive complaints (SCCs) and objective cognitive scores and their relation to polysomnography (PSG) parameters in patients suspected of having OSA.

Methods

A prospective cohort cross‐sectional study was conducted at Siriraj Hospital. Patients suspected of OSA who were scheduled for PSG were recruited. Cognition was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Color Trails Test (CTT). The Memory Index Score (MIS) was calculated from the MoCA. Subjective cognitive complaint presence was assessed through direct questioning of patients and by employing the Cognitive Change Index rated by self or informants (CCI‐I). Patients with severe dementia were excluded.

Results

Among 258 patients (mean age 61.46 ± 7.05 years, 51.2% female), the mean MoCA score was 23.89 ± 3.89. Based on PSG results, patients were categorized into groups as follows: those without OSA or with mild OSA (combined total of 20.1%), moderate OSA (28.3%), or severe OSA (51.6%). Cognitive Change Index rated by self and CCI‐I scores correlated significantly (r = 0.238, p = 0.019) but not with the MoCA score or CTT time. Objective cognitive scores were associated with PSG parameters: total sleep time (TST), sleep onset latency, wake after sleep onset, sleep stages, mean O2 saturation, and time spent with SaO2 below 90% (all p < 0.05). Subjective cognitive scores were not associated with PSG parameters, except CCI‐I with TST. Participants with objective cognitive impairment had lower education, higher body mass index, more comorbidities, and lower SCC percentage (all p < 0.05). Patients with moderate to severe OSA had a higher proportion of objective cognitive impairment (64.1%) but a lower incidence of SCC (38.3%) than patients with no OSA or mild OSA. Thirty patients with severe OSA and cognitive impairment received continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment for a mean of 12.2 months. These patients showed MoCA and MIS improvement, but no significant changes were observed in their CTT and Cognitive Change Index scores.

Conclusions

Most patients with OSA had objective cognitive impairment, but SCC was less frequent in patients with more severe OSA. Several PSG parameters correlated with cognitive scores but not with subjective cognitive scores. Patients with severe OSA may benefit cognitively from CPAP treatment.
Brain structure ages—A new biomarker for multi‐disease classification
Authors: Nguyen Huy‐Dung , Clément Michaël , Mansencal Boris , Coupé Pierrick
Published: January 2024

Age is an important variable to describe the expected brain's anatomy status across the normal aging trajectory. The deviation from that normative aging trajectory may provide some insights into neurological diseases. In neuroimaging, predicted brain age is widely used to analyze different diseases. However, using only the brain age gap information (i.e., the difference between the chronological age and the estimated age) can be not enough informative for disease classification problems. In this paper, we propose to extend the notion of global brain age by estimating brain structure ages using structural magnetic resonance imaging. To this end, an ensemble of deep learning models is first used to estimate a 3D aging map (i.e., voxel‐wise age estimation). Then, a 3D segmentation mask is used to obtain the final brain structure ages. This biomarker can be used in several situations. First, it enables to accurately estimate the brain age for the purpose of anomaly detection at the population level. In this situation, our approach outperforms several state‐of‐the‐art methods. Second, brain structure ages can be used to compute the deviation from the normal aging process of each brain structure. This feature can be used in a multi‐disease classification task for an accurate differential diagnosis at the subject level. Finally, the brain structure age deviations of individuals can be visualized, providing some insights about brain abnormality and helping clinicians in real medical contexts.
Associations between patient‐level health literacy and diagnostic time intervals for head and neck cancer: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Venchiarutti Rebecca L. , Clark Jonathan R. , Palme Carsten E. , Dwyer Patrick , Tahir Abdul Rahim Mohd , Hill Jacques , Ch'ng Sydney , Elliott Michael S. , Young Jane M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Health literacy (HL) comprises skills and knowledge required to understand, access, and make decisions about healthcare. Our aim was to examine associations between patient HL and time intervals (defined in the Aarhus statement) along the pathway to treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC).

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted from October 2018 to March 2020. Participants completed the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ®) and described key events and dates along the pathway to treatment using validated questionnaires. Correlations between six diagnostic time intervals and domains of HL were explored, and factors predicting exceeding maximum acceptable timeframes were assessed using logistic regression.

Results

One hundred patients with a diagnosis of HNC within the preceding 6 months were recruited. HLQ® Domain 2 (sufficient information to manage health) was significantly negatively associated with four intervals: the patient interval (first symptom to first presentation), primary care interval (first presentation to referral to secondary care), diagnostic interval (first presentation to diagnosis), and total interval (first symptom to treatment onset); correlation coefficients −0.25 to −0.27 (P < 0.05). Domain 8 (ability to find good information) was significantly negatively associated with three intervals (primary care interval, diagnostic interval, and total interval; correlation coefficients −0.23 to −0.34; P < 0.05). Higher education, age, and comorbidity levels were associated with shorter patient and diagnostic intervals.

Conclusions

HL may be a potential target to improve timeliness of HNC diagnosis and reduce disparities in outcomes.
N‐cadherin: A diagnostic marker to help discriminate primary liver carcinomas from extrahepatic carcinomas
Authors: Gerber Tiemo S. , Ridder Dirk A. , Goeppert Benjamin , Brobeil Alexander , Stenzel Philipp , Zimmer Stefanie , Jäkel Jörg , Metzig Marie Oliver , Schwab Roxana , Martin Steve Z. , Kiss András , Bergmann Frank , Schirmacher Peter , Galle Peter R. , Lang Hauke , Roth Wilfried , Straub Beate K.
Published: January 2024

Distinguishing primary liver cancer (PLC), namely hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), from liver metastases is of crucial clinical importance. Histopathology remains the gold standard, but differential diagnosis may be challenging. While absent in most epithelial, the expression of the adherens junction glycoprotein N‐cadherin is commonly restricted to neural and mesenchymal cells, or carcinoma cells that undergo the phenomenon of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, we recently established N‐ and E‐cadherin expression as hallmarks of normal hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, which are also preserved in HCC and iCCA. Therefore, we hypothesized that E‐ and/or N‐cadherin may distinguish between carcinoma derived from the liver vs carcinoma of other origins. We comprehensively evaluated E‐ and N‐cadherin in 3359 different tumors in a multicenter study using immunohistochemistry and compared our results with previously published 882 cases of PLC, including 570 HCC and 312 iCCA. Most carcinomas showed strong positivity for E‐cadherin. Strong N‐cadherin positivity was present in HCC and iCCA. However, except for clear cell renal cell carcinoma (23.6% of cases) and thyroid cancer (29.2%), N‐cadherin was only in some instances faintly expressed in adenocarcinomas of the gastrointestinal tract (0%–0.5%), lung (7.1%), pancreas (3.9%), gynecological organs (0%–7.4%), breast (2.2%) as well as in urothelial (9.4%) and squamous cell carcinoma (0%–5.6%). As expected, N‐cadherin was detected in neuroendocrine tumors (25%–75%), malignant melanoma (46.2%) and malignant mesothelioma (41%). In conclusion, N‐cadherin is a useful marker for the distinction of PLC vs liver metastases of extrahepatic carcinomas (P < .01).
Curative effect of high‐intensity focused ultrasound in management of different types of ectopic pregnancy: A systematic review
Authors: Ali Mostafa Maged , Abdelsamad Ahmed , Ragab Youssef Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Ectopic pregnancy (EP) could be defined as any embryo that got implanted in any site rather than the endometrial cavity. Lately, different types of EP were reportedly managed by high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). We aimed to pool all available data in a systematic review without meta‐analysis and investigate the efficacy and safety tendencies of HIFU among different types of EP. We applied our comprehensive terms in Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, and PubMed Central databases from their inception until September 23. Retrieved references were gathered using EndNote in which we omitted the duplicates and exported the record for screening. Data regarding characteristics, safety and efficacy outcomes, and baseline information of the enrolled population were extracted. The eligible case reports were assessed using a tool by Murad and colleagues, while the quality of the included cohorts was appraised using the NIH tool. We retrieved 6637 studies, which were scrutinized by titles and abstracts. We scrutinized the full texts of 36 studies and ultimately included a total of 17 studies. All studies were conducted in China, and on different types of ectopic pregnancy including tubal, cervical, intramural, caesarian scar, and corneal ectopic pregnancy. The mean age of enrolled patients was 33.03 years, and we pooled a total sample of 853 patients. The follow‐up period varied widely among the included studies, ranging from 1.3 months to up to 69 months. Normal menstruation recurred after a mean of 35 days, as reported by nine studies. Most of the included studies reported normal β‐HCG after around 30–40 days. Twelve studies with 757 patients reported a cumulative incidence of 179 cases of abdominal pain after HIFU. Neither of the enrolled patients reportedly complained of skin burn after HIFU. We suggested managing EP patients with HIFU, especially when seeking further conceiving. High‐quality randomized controlled trials are required to draw a stronger level of evidence.
The contribution of digital business strategy in enhancing collaborative innovation capability: The moderating role of organizational culture—A case study of six pharmaceutical companies in Jordan
Authors: Al‐ma'aitah Mohammad Atwah
Published: January 2024

With innovation becoming more collaborative, the influence of digital business strategy (DBS) on interfirm cooperation has grown. This study investigates how DBS can enhance collaboration innovation capabilities across pharmaceutical companies in developing countries. Further, it investigates organizational culture as a moderating variable in the relationship between DBS and collaborative innovation capability (CIC). A total of 205 questionnaire responses were gathered on six Jordanian pharmaceutical corporations. The findings showed that each DBS element (development, objectives, resources, management capabilities, and digital leadership) positively affected CIC, and that organizational culture positively moderated the relationship between DBS and CIC. These results provide valuable insights for managers seeking to improve collaborative capability by leveraging digital business strategies and organizational culture.
Bedouin mothers' sense of authentic inner compass as a parenting resource: Relations with autonomy‐supportive parenting and adolescents' well‐being
Authors: Cohen Rinat , Assor Avi , Al‐Atawna ‐ Hoashle Huwaida , Gueta Bat‐El , Steffgen Teresa , Otterpohl Nantje , Schwinger Malte , Kanat‐Maymon Yaniv
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Sense of authentic inner compass (AIC) is the feeling that one knows what is important to oneself because one has values, aspirations, and goals with which one deeply identifies. Past research demonstrated the benefits of AIC, but there is no published research on parental dispositions promoting youth AIC. To increase knowledge of this issue, we examined whether mothers' sense of AIC is associated with a corresponding sense of AIC in their children, and explored autonomy‐supportive child‐rearing practices that may serve as pathways linking mothers' AIC with adolescents' AIC and subsequent well‐being. We examined a Bedouin Israeli sample because it represents a fairly patriarchal, autonomy‐eschewing, context, where the benefits of mothers' authenticity and autonomy‐support are not obvious.

Method

One hundred and thirty‐six mothers (Mean age = 44.33, SD = 5.22) and their children (Mean age = 13.79, SD = 0.45; 60% females) participated in a study conducted in June 2019.

Results

SEM analyses supported a model where mothers' sense of firm AIC was linked with adolescents' sense of firm AIC via adolescents' experience of their mothers as using the practices of inherent value demonstration and fostering inner valuing. Adolescent reported AIC in turn was associated with adolescents reported vitality and low levels of depressive symptoms. Mothers' AIC was associated with minimal use of conditional regard, which was negatively associated with depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Results suggest that mothers' AIC may be an important parenting resource, enabling mothers to convincingly demonstrate their values, as well as foster children's attunement to their authentic preferences, even in patriarchal‐hierarchical contexts.
Disease and development—The predicted mortality instrument revisited
Authors: Kreitmeir David , Überfuhr Thomas
Published: January 2024

This paper revisits Acemoglu‐Johnson the predicted mortality instrument. Drawing on a unique historical data set of disease‐specific mortality rates, we reconstruct several versions of the instrument that differ in terms of data usage and instrument relevance. Our findings confirm its predictive power on life expectancy. The replication analysis reveals a significant positive second‐stage effect of life expectancy on population and total birth rates and a negative effect on GDP per capita for a subset of the revised instruments. Overall, data coverage and empirical tests suggest the superiority of our country‐level instrument.
Low baseline ribosome‐related gene expression and resistance training‐induced declines in ribosome‐related gene expression are associated with skeletal muscle hypertrophy in young men and women
Authors: Brown Alex , Parise Gianni , Thomas Aaron C. Q. , Ng Sean Y. , McGlory Chris , Phillips Stuart M. , Kumbhare Dinesh , Joanisse Sophie
Published: January 2024

Ribosomes are essential cellular machinery for protein synthesis. It is hypothesised that ribosome content supports muscle growth and that individuals with more ribosomes have greater increases in muscle size following resistance training (RT). Aerobic conditioning (AC) also elicits distinct physiological adaptations; however, no measures of ribosome content following AC have been conducted. We used ribosome‐related gene expression as a proxy measure for ribosome content and hypothesised that AC and RT would increase ribosome‐related gene expression. Fourteen young men and women performed 6 weeks of single‐legged AC followed by 10 weeks of double‐legged RT. Muscle biopsies were taken following AC and following RT in the aerobically conditioned (AC+RT) and unconditioned (RT) legs. No differences in regulatory genes (Ubf, Cyclin D1, Tif‐1a and Polr‐1b) involved in ribosomal biogenesis or ribosomal RNA (45S, 5.8S, 18S and 28S rRNAs) expression were observed following AC and RT, except for c‐Myc (RT > AC+RT) and 5S rRNA (RT < AC+RT at pre‐RT) with 18S external transcribed spacer and 5.8S internal transcribed spacer expression decreasing from pre‐RT to post‐RT in the RT leg only. When divided for change in leg‐lean soft tissue mass (ΔLLSTM) following RT, legs with the greatest ΔLLSTM had lower expression in 11/13 measured ribosome‐related genes before RT and decreased expression in 9/13 genes following RT. These results indicate that AC and RT did not increase ribosome‐related gene expression. Contrary to previous research, the greatest increase in muscle mass was associated with lower changes in ribosome‐related gene expression over the course of the 10‐week training programme. This may point to the importance of translational efficiency rather than translational capacity (i.e. ribosome content) in mediating long‐term exercise‐induced adaptations in skeletal muscle.
A novel method for evaluating pseudoallergy based on β‐hexosaminidase and its application for traditional Chinese medicine injections
Authors: Yang Chen , Zhang Jing‐Wen , Qi Jin , Yu Bo‐Yang
Published: January 2024

Pseudoallergy is a typical and common adverse drug reaction to injections, especially in traditional Chinese medicine injections (TCMIs). At present, the evaluation methods for pseudoallergy include cell methods in vitro and animal methods in vivo. The mast cell evaluation method based on the β‐hexosaminidase (β‐Hex)‐catalyzed substrate, 4‐nitrophenyl‐β‐N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosaminide (4‐NPG), is an important method for the evaluation of drug‐induced pseudoallergy, but it is prone to false positive results and has insufficient sensitivity. In this study, a novel β‐Hex evaluation system with rat basophilic leukemia‐2H3 cells based on high‐performance liquid chromatography‐fluorescence detection (HPLC‐FLD) was established, which effectively increased the sensitivity and avoided false positive results. Cell viabilities were measured by 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. In addition, a method for the determination of histamine, which is another indicator in the development of pseudoallergy, was established to validate the above method. The results of this novel method indicated that two TCMIs (Shuxuening injection and Shenqi Fuzheng injection), which were considered to be pseudoallergenic using 4‐NPG, were not pseudoallergenic. Overall, the novel β‐Hex/HPLC‐FLD evaluation system using Rat basophilic leukemia‐2H3 cells established was effective and precise. It could be used for the evaluation of pseudoallergic reactions caused by TCMIs and other injections.
Contactless conductivity detector as a tool for improving universality and sensitivity of capillary electrophoresis‐frontal analysis: Proof of concept
Authors: Bržezická Taťána , Mlčochová Hana , Glatz Zdeněk , Kohútová Lenka
Published: January 2024

Drug binding to plasma proteins influences processes such as liberation, adsorption, disposition, metabolism, and elimination of drugs, which are thus one of the key steps of a new drug development. As a result, the characterization of drug–protein interactions is an essential part of these time‐ and money‐consuming processes. It is important to determine not only the binding strength and the stoichiometry of interaction, but also the binding site of a drug on a protein molecule, because two drugs with the same binding site can mutually affect free drug concentration. Capillary electrophoresis‐frontal analysis with mobility shift affinity capillary electrophoresis is one of the most used affinity capillary electrophoresis methods for the characterization of these interactions. In this study, a well‐known sensitivity problem of most capillary electrophoresis‐frontal analyses using ultraviolet detection is solved by its combination with contactless conductivity detection, which provided sixfold lower limits of quantitation and detection. Binding parameters of the human serum albumin‐salicylic acid model affinity pair were evaluated by this newly developed approach and by the classical approach with ultraviolet detection primarily used for their mutual comparison. The results of both approaches agreed well and are also in agreement with literature data obtained using different techniques.
Analysis of 14 β‐agonists in pork using an automated wooden tip‐based solid‐phase microextraction device and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Kai , Gong Xiaoming , Jin Liming , Liu Mengxiao , Hua Mengmeng
Published: January 2024

This study introduces a cost‐effective, automated ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for the detection of 14 β‐agonists in pork using a novel solid‐phase microextraction probe composed of polyacrylonitrile and molecularly imprinted polymer. Integrated into an automated extraction device, the probe optimizes extraction prior to analysis while reducing expenses and time compared to traditional solid‐phase extraction procedures. The method validation followed the Chinese National Standard (GB/T 27404‐2008) and examined limits of detection, limits of quantification, matrix effects, linearity, intraday, and interday precision. Average recovery rates ranged from 71.6% to 82.2%, with relative standard deviations less than 15%. Limits of detection and limits of quantification ranged from 0.09 to 0.39 and 0.27 to 0.99 μg/kg, respectively. The new method identified positive samples more accurately than the current National Standard GB/T 31658.22‐2022 and demonstrated its potential for routine assessment and regulatory compliance in the detection of β‐agonists in pork.
Development and validation of a sensitive liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method for the assay of 12 substances in rat plasma and its application to rat pharmacokinetics of Epimedium and Psoraleae Fructus herb pair after oral administration
Authors: Wang Linwei , Yin Xiaoying , Liu Huan , Wang Yangyang , Li Zhixiong , Zhao Yuxuan , Xu Haibo , Huang Chenggang , Diao Xingxing
Published: January 2024

Epimedium (EM) and Psoraleae Fructus (PF) are a traditional herb combination often used as a fixed form to treat osteoporosis disease in the clinic. However, the intricate interactions of this pair remain unknown. In our study, we undertook a comprehensive examination of their compatibility behaviors. Concurrently, a precise and sensitive quantitation method was successfully developed and validated using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry for the determination of 12 components. This method was applied in analyzing herbal extracts and biological samples (both in the portal vein and systemic plasma), which was also used to study the pharmacokinetics of the herb pair. The results indicated that the combination of EM and PF enhanced the dissolution of chemical components from PF in extracts, but it had a negligible influence on the contents of the components from EM. On the contrary, the in vivo exposure of the lowly exposed EM flavonoids significantly increased following the combination of EM and PF, whereas the highly exposed psoralen and isopsoralen were greatly reduced. These interactions might be crucial for the synergy and toxicity reduction of the herbal pair in disease treatment, which pave the way for further exploration into the clinical application and pharmacological mechanisms of EM and PF.
Enantioseparation of agrochemicals by gas chromatography. Exploring columns based on cyclodextrin derivatives dissolved into polysiloxanes
Authors: Critto Emilia Frickel , Giovannoni Sol , Lancioni Carlina , Castells Cecilia B.
Published: January 2024

The main goal of this work is to expand the availability of chiral columns for the analysis of agrochemicals by gas chromatography. A broader offer of chiral stationary phases would allow shifting toward enantioselective analytical techniques environmentally more friendly for those compounds. We prepared seven chiral capillary columns based on derivatives of either, β‐cyclodextrin or γ‐cyclodextrins dissolved at high concentrations, in two typical polysiloxanes with different polarities, demonstrating not only the significance of the chiral selector but also of the polymer solvent for achieving adequate enantioseparation of some agrochemicals. The enantiorecognition ability of each column was evaluated with 20 volatile and semivolatile agrochemicals, possessing one or two chiral centers. Besides, to elute more polar agrochemicals, as well as to enhance enantioselectivity, three derivatization procedures targeting the carboxyl and/or amine group were evaluated. The results revealed that the prepared column consisting of octakis(2,3‐di‐O‐acetyl‐6‐O‐tertbutyldimethylsilyl)‐γ‐cyclodextrin dissolved in (14%‐cyanopropyl‐phenyl)‐86%‐methyl‐polysiloxane provides the broadest enantiorecognition capacity. This column allowed the enantioseparation of seventeen chiral agrochemicals, including metalaxyl, furalaxyl, and four imidazolinones, which were not enantioseparated in the remaining columns. To the best of our knowledge, glufosinate, fluorochloridone, fenarimol, furalaxyl, and four imidazolinones were enantioseparated by gas chromatography for the first time.
Pepsin Inhibitors Prevent Inflammation and Loss of Laryngeal Barrier Function in Mice with Gastroesophageal Reflux
Authors: Sales Thiago M.A.L. , Sidou Flavio M.N.O. , da Costa Filho Humberto B. , de Melo Nogueira Kerolayne , Dias Júnior Genilson J. , de Sousa Lima Marcos A. , da Silva Lara M.G. , Nicolau Lucas A.D. , Soares Pedro M.G. , Nobre e Souza Miguel Â. , Sifrim Daniel , de Souza Marcellus H.L.P.
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the role of pepsin inhibitors in the inflammatory response and their effects on laryngeal mucosal integrity during gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) under in vivo conditions.

Methods

A surgical model of GERD was used, in which mice were treated with pepstatin (0.3 mg/kg) or darunavir (8.6 mg/kg) for 3 days. On the third day after the experimental protocol, the laryngeal samples were collected to assess the severity of inflammation (wet weight and myeloperoxidase activity) and mucosal integrity (transepithelial electrical resistance and paracellular epithelial permeability to fluorescein).

Results

The surgical GERD model was reproduced. It showed features of inflammation and loss of barrier function in the laryngeal mucosa. Pepstatin and darunavir administration suppressed laryngeal inflammation and preserved laryngeal mucosal integrity.

Conclusion

Pepsin inhibition by the administration of pepstatin and darunavir improved inflammation and protected the laryngeal mucosa in a mouse experimental model of GERD.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:3080–3085, 2024
Frequency‐to‐Place Mismatch Impacts Cochlear Implant Quality of Life, But Not Speech Recognition
Authors: Sturm Joshua J. , Ma Cheng , McRackan Theodore R. , Schvartz‐Leyzac Kara C.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To retrospectively compare frequency‐place mismatch among adult cochlear implant (CI) recipients with lateral wall (LW) and perimodiolar/Mid Scala (PM/MS) arrays, and to quantify the impact of these factors on early post‐activation (3 months) speech recognition abilities and CI‐specific quality of life.

Methods

One hundred and twenty‐six adult participants were separated into two groups: (1) 83 participants who underwent CI with a PM/MS array and 43 patients who underwent CI with a LW array. All participants completed the Cochlear Implant Quality of Life Profile (CIQOL‐35 Profile) instrument. Angular insertion depth and semitone mismatch, which contribute to frequency‐place mismatch, were assessed using post‐operative CT scans. Word and speech recognition in quiet were determined using the Consonant‐Nucleus‐Consonant (CNC) and the AzBio tests, respectively (n = 82 patients).

Results

LW arrays were more deeply inserted and exhibited less semitone mismatch compared to PM/MS arrays. No significant relationship was found between semitone mismatch and early post‐operative speech perception scores for either PM/MS or LW arrays. However, greater degrees of semitone mismatch were associated with lower CIQOL‐35 profile scores for PM/MS arrays.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this study indicate that both the degree of frequency‐place mismatch, and its impact on CI‐specific quality of life, vary by CI array design.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:2898–2905, 2024
Head and neck ultrasound training improves the diagnostic performance of otolaryngology residents
Authors: Warm Jens Jessen , Melchiors Jacob , Kristensen Tina Toft , Aabenhus Kristine , Charabi Birgitte Wittenborg , Eberhard Kristine , Konge Lars , von Buchwald Christian , Todsen Tobias
Published: January 2024

Objective

Surgeon‐performed head and neck ultrasound (US) is increasingly used among otolaryngologists in office‐based and surgical settings. However, it is unknown how formal US training affects otolaryngology residents' diagnostic workup of patients with cervical pathology. This study examined how a formal US course for residents affected their outpatient clinic US performance and diagnostic accuracy.

Methods

We conducted a randomized cross‐over trial, where 13 otolaryngology residents participated in a 6‐h formal US course. Participants were randomized to perform head and neck US on four patient cases before and after completing the course. Eight patients with and without neck pathology were invited to participate as test cases. The ultrasound examinations were video recorded and anonymized before two consultants rated the US performance using the Objective Structured Assessment of Ultrasound Skills (OSAUS) scale. Otolaryngology residents wrote an ultrasound report with a diagnosis based on their US examination, which was used to calculate the specificity and sensitivity.

Results

We found a statistically significant difference in the OSAUS score before compared to after the hands‐on training (p = .035). The diagnostic accuracy also increased from 62% before the course to 75% after the course (p = .02). Specificity increased from 54% prior to the course to 62% following the course, and sensitivity increased from 64% prior to the course to 79% following the course. The intraclass correlation coefficient with “absolute agreement” was 0.63.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that short, formal ultrasound training can improve otolaryngology residents' ultrasound skills and diagnostic accuracy in an outpatient clinic setting.

Lay summary

This study looks at the change of otolaryngology residents' diagnostic workup of patients after they take a formal ultrasound course and shows that they get better at using ultrasound and make more accurate diagnoses if they take a formal course.

Level of Evidence

Level 2.
Another Year of Milestones and Advancements Ahead
Authors: Atwood Stephen P.
Published: January 2024

Information Display (ID) has an exciting year ahead. We will celebrate our 60th anniversary—the first issue of ID was published in October 1964. It was inevitable, after the founders agreed to “encourage the scientific, literary and educational advancement of information display and its allied arts,” that they set out to create chapters around the world, hold conferences to educate people, and provide platforms to publish members’ groundbreaking work.
Vision Science Calls for Perception‐Friendly Displays
Authors: Kwak Youngshin , Whitehead Lorne
Published: January 2024

Designing displays based on more than three light emitters requires neither new manufacturing techniques, nor hyperspectral cameras or signaling.
Measuring Subjective Differences Objectively
Authors: Bergquist Johan
Published: January 2024

Wide color gamut displays reproduce colors encoded in large color spaces. However, they may encounter challenges stemming from observer metameric mismatch.
Gamut Rings Color Scope
Authors: Masaoka Kenichiro
Published: January 2024

The real‐time gamut rings color scope simultaneously visualizes distribution of lightness, chroma, and hue attributes in a single 2D diagram.
ID Asks/Paul Semenza
Authors: Peruvemba Sri
Published: January 2024

Analyst, author, and academic
Male guarding behavior and brood predators of invasive Bluegill in a Japanese lake
Authors: Peterson Miles I. , Kitano Satoshi
Published: January 2024

Objective

The Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus, which utilizes colony spawning, has been introduced globally, and in Japan it is considered one of the worst invasive species. However, a detailed examination of the factors driving male guarding behavior and brood predation in the invaded habitat is lacking. The removal of guarding males, a common management technique in Japan, is thought to be effective in controlling Bluegill. However, the colony spawning strategy may influence the effectiveness of selective male removal through brood protection from neighbor males.

Methods

Bluegill spawning was studied in Lake Nojiri, Nagano, Japan, using underwater video recording and experimental removal of guarding males.

Result

Bluegill were found spawning in shallow habitat during June–July, and nests were constructed in loosely aggregated colonies, with many solitary nests. Males utilized a variety of guarding behaviors, such as rim circling and predator chases, as well as paternal investment behaviors, such as tail fanning. Males that preyed upon their own eggs defended their nests less aggressively and invested less time in nourishing behaviors. Removal of guarding males revealed that brood predators were primarily conspecific Bluegill, but other fishes, such as invasive Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu and Largemouth Bass M. nigricans as well as native Japanese Dace Pseudaspius hakonensis, preyed on broods.

Conclusion

In concurrence with the colony spawning theory, nests that were located closer to other nests with active guarding males experienced decreased brood predation and increased predator arrival time after male removal. In addition, nests where males had been guarding more aggressively prior to removal experienced reduced brood predation after male removal. These results provide insights into the factors driving male guarding behavior and brood predation of colony-spawning Bluegill in an invasive habitat and indicate that the removal of guarding males—a common management strategy in Japan—may have reduced effectiveness due to colony spawning.
Nutrition challenges following total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation
Authors: Hasse Jeanette M. , Meng Shumei , Silpe Stephanie , Naziruddin Bashoo
Published: January 2024

Total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) is a surgical treatment option for patients with chronic pancreatitis who have not responded to other therapies. TP offers pain relief whereas IAT preserves beta cell mass to reduce endocrine insufficiency. During the surgical procedure, the entire pancreas is removed. Islet cells from the pancreas are then isolated, purified, and infused into the liver via the portal vein. Successful TPIAT relieves pain for a majority of patients but is not without obstacles, specifically gastrointestinal, exocrine, and endocrine challenges. The postoperative phase can be complicated by gastrointestinal symptoms causing patients to have difficulty regaining adequate oral intake. Enteral nutrition is frequently provided as a bridge to oral diet. Patients undergoing TPIAT must be monitored for macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies following the procedure. Exocrine insufficiency must be treated lifelong with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. Endocrine function must be monitored and exogenous insulin provided in the postoperative phase; however, a majority of patients undergoing TPIAT require little or no long‐term insulin. Although TPIAT can be a successful option for patients with chronic pancreatitis, nutrition‐related concerns must be addressed for optimal recovery.
Life history of a high‐class noblewoman from the late Shu state in the Chengdu Plain during the Eastern Zhou period (770–221 BC): Childhood stresses and stable life
Authors: Yi Bing , Yuan Haibing , Wang Tianyou , Cao Doudou , Yang Yingdong , Hu Yaowu
Published: January 2024

This preliminary study aims at reconstructing the life history, including dietary patterns, mobility, and health conditions, of a high‐class noblewoman (M154) from the late Shu state (晚蜀), the period of Kai Ming regime (開明氏), in the Shuangyuan Village Cemetery of the Eastern Zhou period (770–221 BC), Chengdu Plain, China, as a way to provide a glimpse into the human lifeway in the late Shu culture period under the impact of non‐local cultures. We combined skeletal pathological observations with multi‐isotope (carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen) analyses of bone collagen, enamel, and dentin serial sections and analyzed multi‐tooth enamel from the remaining 10 humans in the cemetery as comparative data. The results suggest that the occupant of M154, a female who died at around 30 years of age, consumed mainly rice (C3‐based crop) and high animal protein throughout her life, was weaned at 2–3 years of age, experienced physiological stresses after weaning and at 7–8 years of age but recovered from both rapidly (less than a year), which probably was related to better care, and that the timing of physiological stress embodied in isotopic profiles from incremental dentin sections is consistent with the observed enamel hypoplasia and cribra orbitalia. She more likely lived with the local population from childhood to adolescence and did not experience long‐distance migrations. After 7–8 years of age, she consumed relatively stable food resources and lived a stable life until death. Here, we show the stable and well‐cared‐for life history of a high‐ranking noble of the late Shu state, providing new insights into the study of the ancient Shu people and a reference for further research.
Blood Eosinophil Percentage and Improved Sinus CT Score as Diagnostic Tools for ECRS
Authors: Li Fengzhen , Wang Shenglei , Cha Xudong , Li Tengfei , Xie Yingqi , Wang Wenwen , Ren Wenwen , Liao Jianchun , Liu Huanhai
Published: January 2024

Objective

Differentiating 2 types of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is important for the treatment. The current diagnostic methods using single indicators, including peripheral blood eosinophils and traditional sinus computed tomography (CT) scores, are not accurate. In this study, we aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of combining peripheral blood eosinophils and improved sinus CT scores for eosinophic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Tertiary medical center.

Methods

We conducted a study involving 81 patients with CRSwNP. Peripheral blood samples were collected from the non‐ECRS and ECRS groups. Improved three‐dimensional volume image analysis and Lund‐Mackay scoring system were performed to quantify the thickening of sinus mucosa. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was carried out to detect the predictive value of the scoring indicators. For significant indexes, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied.

Results

The ECRS group had higher levels of blood eosinophil percentage and count, ethmoid sinus score, total sinus score, the ratio of ethmoid sinus score and maxillary sinus score, and the difference between ethmoid and maxillary score, compared to the non‐ECRS group (P < 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis demonstrated that both blood eosinophil percentage and the improved E − M score (subtraction of ethmoid and maxillary sinus scores) were significant predictors of ECRS diagnosis (P < .01). ROC curve analysis indicated that the combination of improved E − M score and blood eosinophil percentage had a higher diagnostic value compared to either factor alone (area under the curve = 0.874).

Conclusion

Our study suggested the combination of improved total ethmoid sinus‐maxillary score and blood eosinophil percentage is more accurate in predicting the diagnosis of ECRS.
Lung relapse pattern in children with metastatic Wilms tumor
Authors: Fichera Giulia , Bisogno Gianni , Affinita Maria Carmen , Causin Francesco , Giraudo Chiara , Tagarelli Arianna
Published: January 2024

Wilms tumor is the most common pediatric renal cancer, and lungs represent the major site of metastasis and recurrence. Relapse occurs in 15%, months or years after treatment; so due to the small sample, acquiring more data about the pattern of lung relapse remains a challenge. The aim of our study was to evaluate if pulmonary relapse, detected by computed tomography (CT), occurred at the initial site of lung metastases or in a different location. According to our data, the CT pattern of lung relapse showed high probability of recurrence at the same site of initial metastasis.