bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spinal microglial M1 polarization contributes paclitaxel‐induced neuropathic pain by triggering cells necroptosis
Authors: Dong Yang Ma , Ming Jie Wang , Hui Zhou Li , Zhao Li , Xin Liu , Xiu Li Wang , Shuang Zhao
Published: March 2024

Paclitaxel (PTX) is a chemotherapeutic agent that is widely used for the treatment of several types of tumors. However, PTX‐induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) is an adverse effect generally induced by long‐term PTX use that significantly impairs the quality of life. Necroptosis has been implicated in various neurodegenerative disorders. Necroptosis of dorsal root ganglion neurons triggers the pathogenesis of PIPN. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the role of spinal neuronal necroptosis in PIPN. It also explores the potential role of microglial polarization in necroptosis. We established rat models of PIPN via quartic PTX administration on alternate days (accumulated dose: 8 mg/kg). PTX induced obvious neuronal necroptosis and upregulated the expression of receptor‐interacting protein kinase (RIP3) and mixed lineage kinase domain‐like protein (MLKL) in the spinal dorsal horn. These effects were inhibited with a necroptosis pathway inhibitor, necrostatin‐1 (Nec‐1). The effect of microglial polarization on the regulation of spinal necroptosis was elucidated by administering minocycline to inhibit PTX‐induced M1 polarization of spinal microglia caused by PTX. We observed a significant inhibitory effect of minocycline on PTX‐induced necroptosis in spinal cord cells, based on the downregulation of RIP3 and MLKL expression, and suppression of tumor necrosis factor‐α and IL‐β synthesis. Additionally, minocycline improved hyperalgesia symptoms in PIPN rats. Overall, this study suggests that PTX‐induced polarization of spinal microglia leads to RIP3/MLKL‐regulated necroptosis, resulting in PIPN. These findings suggest a potential target for the prevention and treatment of neuropathic pain.
Early versus late caffeine and/or non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for prevention of intermittent hypoxia‐induced neuroinflammation in the neonatal rat
Authors: Batool Myra , Cai Charles L. , Aranda Jacob V. , Hand Ivan , Beharry Kay D.
Published: March 2024

Preterm infants often experience frequent intermittent hypoxia (IH) episodes which are associated with neuroinflammation. We tested the hypotheses that early caffeine and/or non‐steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) confer superior therapeutic benefits for protection against IH‐induced neuroinflammation than late treatment. Newborn rats were exposed to IH or hyperoxia (50% O2) from birth (P0) to P14. For early treatment, the pups were administered: 1) daily caffeine (Caff) citrate (Cafcit, 20 mg/kg IP loading on P0, followed by 5 mg/kg from P1‐P14); 2) ketorolac (Keto) topical ocular solution in both eyes from P0 to P14; 3) ibuprofen (Ibu, Neoprofen, 10 mg/kg loading dose on P0 followed by 5 mg/kg/day on P1 and P2); 4) Caff+Keto co‐treatment; 5) Caff+Ibu co‐treatment; or 6) equivalent volume saline (Sal). On P14, animals were placed in room air (RA) with no further treatment until P21. For late treatment, pups were exposed from P0 to P14, then placed in RA during which they received similar treatments from P15‐P21 (Sal, Caff, and/or Keto), or P15‐P17 (Ibu). RA controls were similarly treated. At P21, whole brains were assessed for histopathology, apoptosis, myelination, and biomarkers of inflammation. IH caused significant brain injury and hemorrhage, inflammation, reduced myelination, and apoptosis. Early treatment with Caff alone or in combination with NSAIDs conferred better neuroprotection against IH‐induced damage than late treatment. Early postnatal treatment during a critical time of brain development, may be preferable for the prevention of IH‐induced brain injury in preterm infants.
Synthesis of hydantoins from N‐Boc protected amino acid derived amides using polymer‐supported PPh3/CBr4 as a reagent
Authors: Tasic Gordana , Mitrovic Nikola , Simic Milena , Koravovic Mladen , Jovanovic Predrag , Petkovic Milos , Jovanovic Milos , Ivkovic Branka , Savic Vladimir
Published: March 2024

Hydantoin derivatives are versatile structural motifs found in natural products and various compounds with different biological or other properties. Due to their importance in both organic and medicinal chemistry, a number of synthetic procedures have been developed. In this article, a novel methodology utilizing N‐Boc protected amino acid amides for their preparation has been described. The cyclisation process was accomplished using solid supported PPh3 and CBr4 as reagents affording substituted hydantoins in moderate to good yields (40%–77%).
Feasibility, Repeatability, and Correlation to Lung Function of Phase‐Resolved Functional Lung (PREFUL) MRI‐derived Pulmonary Artery Pulse Wave Velocity Measurements
Authors: Wernz Marius M. , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Müller Robin A. , Zubke Maximilian , Klimeš Filip , Glandorf Julian , Czerner Christoph , Wacker Frank , Olsson Karen M. , Hoeper Marius M. , Hohlfeld Jens M. , Vogel‐Claussen Jens
Published: March 2024

Background

Pulse wave velocity (PWV) in the pulmonary arteries (PA) is a marker of vascular stiffening. Currently, only phase‐contrast (PC) MRI‐based options exist to measure PA‐PWV.

Purpose

To test feasibility, repeatability, and correlation to clinical data of Phase‐Resolved Functional Lung (PREFUL) MRI‐based calculation of PA‐PWV.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

79 (26 female) healthy subjects (age range 19–78), 58 (24 female) patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, age range 40–77), 60 (33 female) patients with suspected pulmonary hypertension (PH, age range 28–85).

Sequence

2D spoiled gradient echo, 1.5T.

Assessment

PA‐PWV was measured from PREFUL‐derived cardiac cycles based on the determination of temporal and spatial distance between lung vasculature voxels using a simplified (sPWV) method and a more comprehensive (cPWV) method including more elaborate distance calculation. For 135 individuals, PC MRI‐based PWV (PWV‐QA) was measured.

Statistical Tests

Intraclass‐correlation‐coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CoV) were used to test repeatability. Nonparametric tests were used to compare cohorts. Correlation of sPWV/cPWV, PWV‐QA, forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) %predicted, residual volume (RV) %predicted, age, and right heart catheterization (RHC) data were tested. Significance level α = 0.05 was used.

Results

sPWV and cPWV showed no significant differences between repeated measurements (P‐range 0.10–0.92). CoV was generally lower than 15%. COPD and PH patients had significantly higher sPWV and cPWV than healthy subjects. Significant correlation was found between sPWV or cPWV and FEV1%pred. (R = −0.36 and R = −0.44), but not with RHC (P‐range −0.11 − 0.91) or age (P‐range 0.23–0.89). Correlation to RV%pred. was significant for cPWV (R = 0.42) but not for sPWV (R = 0.34, P = 0.055). For all cohorts, sPWV and cPWV were significantly correlated with PWV‐QA (R = −0.41 and R = 0.48).

Data Conclusion

PREFUL‐derived PWV is feasible and repeatable. PWV is increased in COPD and PH patients and correlates to airway obstruction and hyperinflation.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
A multi‐objective optimization approach for beam pattern synthesis ofUAVvirtual rectangular antenna array
Authors: Mei Fang , Guo Xinrong , Kang Hui , Sun Geng , Zheng Tingting , Wen Jianbo
Published: March 2024

Virtual antenna array (VAA) formed by unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) antenna units using collaborative beamforming (CB) technology plays an important role in the air communication system, and can be used in radar, military, disaster rescue and other places. However, there are still some issues with the beam pattern formed by this method, such as high sidelobe level (SLL), high cost and low efficiency. In this article, each UAV carries an omnidirectional antenna unit, and a large number of UAVs form a UAV virtual rectangular antenna array (UVRAA) to communicate with the ground base station (BS). We formulate an overhead minimization and efficient communication multi‐objective optimization problem (OMECMOP) which jointly optimize the excitation current weights of the UVRAA and reduce the number of UAVs in operation to improve the beam pattern, enhance the communication efficiency and decrease the overhead of UVRAA. In addition, we also propose an improved multi‐objective multi‐verse optimization algorithm based on the inverse decline curve type (ISDT‐MOMVO) which introduces a strategy optimization initialization solution with quasi‐opposition based learning (QBL) and a hybrid solution updating operators to solve the OMECMOP. The simulation results show that compared with other traditional swarm intelligence (SI) optimization algorithms the ISDT‐MOMVO algorithm produces better beam pattern and the thinning rate can reach 50%.
Assessment of BTI‐induced deterioration in vacuum based undoped structure
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Panchore Meena
Published: March 2024

In this paper, an assessment of bias temperature instability (BTI) in based dual gate dopingless JLFET (HKV‐DLJLFET) is carried out at 15 nm technology node. For this, the gate dielectric of HKV‐DGDLJLFET is made of asymmetric combination of and vacuum dielectrics near the source/drain (S/D) side, which significantly minimizes the leakage current and enhances the reliability. Our simulation study have shown that the n‐type HKV‐DGDLJLFET exhibits 2.28 and 2.45 times less deterioration in drain current and transconductance respectively, than n‐type HKV‐DGJLFET due to positive BTI (PBTI) for 2000 seconds at . Further, we have found that n‐type HKV‐DGDLJLFET has less deterioration in and due to BTI stress for different time spans. Hence, adding vacuum dielectric to the drain side lowers the BTI stress at high temperatures and makes it last longer.
Quality prediction of whole‐grain rice noodles using backpropagation artificial neural network
Authors: Wang Chujun , Shi Xin , Xue Jianyi , Zhao Siming , Jia Caihua , Niu Meng , Zhang Binjia , Xu Yan
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Whole‐grain rice noodles are a kind of healthy food with rich nutritional value, and their product quality has a notable impact on consumer acceptability. The quality evaluation model is of great significance to the optimization of product quality. However, there are few methods that can establish a product quality prediction model with multiple preparation conditions as inputs and various quality evaluation indexes as outputs. In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN) model based on a backpropagation (BP) algorithm was used to predict the comprehensive quality changes of whole‐grain rice noodles under different preparation conditions, which provided a new way to improve the quality of extrusion rice products.

RESULTS

The results showed that the BP‐ANN using the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm and the optimal topology (4‐11‐8) gave the best performance. The correlation coefficients (R2) for the training, validation, testing, and global data sets of the BP neural network were 0.927, 0.873, 0.817, and 0.903, respectively. In the validation test, the percentage error in the quality prediction of whole‐grain rice noodles was within 10%, indicating that the BP‐ANN could accurately predict the quality of whole‐grain rice noodles prepared under different conditions.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that the quality prediction model of whole‐grain rice noodles based on the BP‐ANN algorithm was effective, and suitable for predicting the quality of whole‐grain rice noodles prepared under different conditions. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Changing the polyphenol composition and enhancing the enzyme activity of sorghum grain by solid‐state fermentation with different microbial strains
Authors: Zhang Duqin , Wang Qi , Li Zhijiang , Shen Zhujiang , Tan Bin , Zhai Xiaotong
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Solid‐state fermentation (SSF) has been widely used in the processing of sorghum grain (SG) because it can produce products with improved sensory characteristics. To clarify the influence of different microbial strains on the SSF of SG, especially on the polyphenols content and composition, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Rhizopus oryzae, Aspergillus oryzae, and Neurospora sitophila were used separately and together for SSF of SG. Furthermore, the relationship between the dynamic changes in polyphenols and enzyme activity closely related to the metabolism of polyphenols has also been measured and analyzed. Microstructural changes observed after SSF provide a visual representation of the SSF on the SG.

RESULTS

After SSF, tannin content (TC) and free phenolic content (FPC) were decreased by 56.36% and 23.48%, respectively. Polyphenol oxidase, β‐glucosidase and cellulase activities were increased 5.25, 3.27, and 45.57 times, respectively. TC and FPC were negatively correlated with cellulase activity. A positive correlation between FPC and xylanase activity after 30 h SSF became negative after 48 h SSF. The SG surface was fragmented and porous, reducing the blocking effect of cortex.

CONCLUSION

Cellulase played a crucial role in promoting the degradation of tannin (antinutrient) and phenolic compounds. Xylanase continued to release flavonoids while microbial metabolism consumed them with the extension of SSF time. SSF is an effective way to improve the bioactivity and processing characteristics of SG. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Fermentation of millet bran with Bacillus natto: enhancement of bioactivity levels and the bioactivity of bran extract
Authors: Zhang Shimei , Wang An , Lu Zhaoxin , Lu Fengxia , Zhao Haizhen
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Millet bran (MB), a byproduct of millet production, is rich in functional components but it is underutilized. In recent years, researchers have shown that fermentation can improve the biological activity of cereals and their byproducts. This study used Bacillus natto to ferment millet bran to improve its added value and broaden the application of MB. The bioactive component content, physicochemical properties, and functional activity of millet bran extract (MBE) from fermented millet bran were determined.

RESULTS

After fermentation, the soluble dietary fiber (SDF) content increased by 92.0%, the β‐glucan content by 164.4%, the polypeptide content by 111.4%, the polyphenol content by 32.5%, the flavone content by 16.4%, and the total amino acid content by 95.4%. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the microscopic morphology of MBE changed from complete and dense blocks to loosely porous shapes after fermentation. After fermentation, the solubility, water‐holding capacity, and viscosity significantly increased and the particle size decreased. Moreover, the glucose adsorption capacity (2.1 mmol g−1), glucose dialysis retardation index (75.3%), and α‐glucosidase inhibitory (71.4%, mixed reversible inhibition) activity of the fermented MBE (FMBE) were greater than those of the unfermented MBE (0.99 mmol g−1, 32.1%, and 35.1%, respectively). The FMBE presented better cholesterol and sodium cholate (SC) adsorption properties and the adsorption was considered inhomogeneous surface adsorption.

CONCLUSION

Fermentation increased the bioactive component content and improved the physicochemical properties of MBE, thereby improving its hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties. This study not only resolves the problem of millet bran waste but also encourages the development of higher value‐added application methods for millet bran. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparison of Dry Needling and Cold‐Spray‐Stretching Treatments by Ultrasonography and Electrophysiology
Authors: Ustun Busra , Yorulmaz Elem , Geler‐Kulcu Duygu
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To compare the efficacy of dry needling (DN) and cold‐spray‐stretching treatments using surface electromyography (sEMG) and ultrasound (US) in the treatment of patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) with active trigger point (ATrP) in the upper trapezius muscle.

Methods

This prospective randomized single‐blind study included 60 MPS patients aged 18–65 years who have ATrP in the upper trapezius muscle. Patients were randomized into two treatment groups as DN and cold spray stretching. Both treatment groups received 1 treatment per week and totally 3 sessions. Evaluation parameters were pain level assessed by Numeric Rating Scale and algometer, neck range of motion angles, neck disability index (NDI). The effects of the treatments on ATrP were evaluated by sEMG and US histogram. All parameters were evaluated at the beginning of the treatment and at the end. Algometer and sEMG were performed also before and after the first and third sessions.

Results

There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding demographic data. The mean age of the participants was 39.7 ± 11.6 years. Fifty‐one patients were female. Significant improvement in terms of pain level, functionality, sEMG, and US histogram were achieved in both groups (P < .05). When comparing the two groups, algometer scores and the NDI score were statistically higher in the cold‐spray‐stretching group than in the DN group (P < .008 and P < .028, respectively).

Conclusion

Both treatment options should be preferred. The efficacy of both treatments was observed via sEMG and US histograms.
Small RNA Deep Sequencing Uncovers microRNAs Associated with Hearing Loss in Vestibular Schwannoma
Authors: Litwiniuk‐Kosmala Małgorzata , Makuszewska Maria , Niemczyk Kazimierz , Bartoszewicz Robert , Wojtas Bartosz , Gielniewski Bartłomiej
Published: March 2024

Objective

To analyze the correlation between the miRNA expression profile in vestibular schwannoma (VS) tumor tissue and preoperative patient's hearing status, using the RNA‐seq technique.

Methods

Nineteen tumor samples were collected from patients operated for VS in a Tertiary Academic Center. Samples were classified into “good hearing” and “poor hearing” study group based on the results of audiometric studies. Tumor miRNA expression was analyzed using high‐throughput RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) technique, using NovaSeq 6000 Illumina system. Functional analysis was performed with the use of DIANA miRpath v. 4.0 online tool.

Results

The most overexpressed miRNAs in VS samples derived from poor hearing patients belonged to miR 449a/b, miR 15/16–1, and hypoxamiR families. Functional analysis showed that the differentially expressed miRNAs regulate cellular pathways associated with hypoxia, adherence junction functions, and signaling pathways such as Hippo, FOXO, MAPK, and Wnt signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our study identified a specific miRNA expression profile in VS tumor tissues that correlates with hearing impairment. These results suggest potential new molecular mechanisms related to hearing loss in the course of VS.

Level of Evidence

3 (cohort study) Laryngoscope, 134:3778–3785, 2024
Microbial Analysis in Chronic Rhinosinusitis Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and End‐Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Lo Sheng‐Wei , Ding Meng‐Chang , Tsai Yao‐Te , Tsai Ming‐Shao , Liu Chia‐Yen , Hsu Cheng‐Ming , Yang Yao‐Hsu , Chang Geng‐He
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to elucidate the bacterial profile of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) compared with nonrenal patients, guiding antibiotic selection for clinicians.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 13,906 inpatients from the Chang Gung Research Database who underwent sinus surgery (2004–2018). Patients were categorized into ESRD‐CRS, CKD‐CRS, and non‐CKD‐CRS based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate. Bacterial cultures from surgical samples were classified as facultative anaerobes or aerobes (e.g., Klebsiella pneumoniae [KP], Pseudomonas aeruginosa [Ps.a]), anaerobes, and fungi and ranked by prevalence.

Results

Data from 47 ESRD‐CRS, 230 CKD‐CRS, and 13,123 non‐CKD‐CRS patients were analyzed. In ESRD‐CRS, the predominant species were KP (31.6%), Ps.a (21.1%), and Coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus (CoNS, 15.8%). CKD‐CRS showed Staphylococcus epidermidis (27.7%), CoNS (20.5%), and Ps.a (20.5%). Non‐CKD‐CRS had Staphylococcus epidermidis (29.8%), CoNS (25.0%), and Staphylococcus aureus (15.5%). For anaerobes, ESRD‐CRS was dominated by Fusobacterium nucleatum (10.5%) and Peptostreptococcus micros (10.5%), whereas CKD‐CRS and non‐CKD‐CRS showed Propionibacterium acnes as a primary strain (14.5% and 28.7%, respectively).

Conclusion

For CRS in ESRD, antibiotics targeting KP and Fusobacterium nucleatum are recommended. In CKD‐CRS, a focus on Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes is suggested.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3499–3507, 2024
Vertical trophic structure and niche partitioning of gelatinous predators in a pelagic food web: Insights from stable isotopes of siphonophores
Authors: Hetherington Elizabeth D. , Close Hilary G. , Haddock Steven H. D. , Damian‐Serrano Alejandro , Dunn Casey W. , Wallsgrove Natalie J. , Doherty Shannon C. , Choy C. Anela
Published: March 2024

Gelatinous zooplankton are increasingly recognized as key components of pelagic ecosystems, and there have been many recent insights into their ecology and roles in food webs. To examine the trophic ecology of siphonophores (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa), we used bulk (carbon and nitrogen) and compound‐specific (nitrogen) isotope analysis of individual amino acids (CSIA‐AA). We collected samples of 15 siphonophore genera using blue‐water diving, midwater trawls, and remotely operated vehicles in the California Current Ecosystem, from 0 to 3000 m. We examined the basal resources supporting siphonophore nutrition by comparing their isotope values to those of contemporaneously collected sinking and suspended particles (0–500 m). Stable isotope values provided novel insights into siphonophore trophic ecology, indicating considerable niche overlap between calycophoran and physonect siphonophores. However, there were clear relationships between siphonophore trophic positions and phylogeny, and the highest siphonophore trophic positions were restricted to physonects. Bulk and source amino acid nitrogen isotope (δ15N) values of siphonophores and suspended particles all increased significantly with increasing collection depth. In contrast, siphonophore trophic positions did not increase with increasing collection depth. This suggests that microbially reworked, deep, suspended particles with higher δ15N values than surface particles, likely indirectly support deep‐pelagic siphonophores. Siphonophores feed upon a range of prey, from small crustaceans to fishes, and we show that their measured trophic positions reflect this trophic diversity, spanning 1.5 trophic levels (range 2.4–4.0). Further, we demonstrate that CSIA‐AA can elucidate the feeding ecology of gelatinous zooplankton and distinguish between nutritional resources across vertical habitats. These findings improve our understanding of the functional roles of gelatinous zooplankton and energy flow through pelagic food webs.
Plant‐sediment interactions decouple inorganic from organic carbon stock development in salt marsh soils
Authors: Granse Dirk , Wanner Antonia , Stock Martin , Jensen Kai , Mueller Peter
Published: March 2024

The storage of organic carbon in the soils of salt marshes and other coastal blue carbon ecosystems has gained considerable attention by the scientific community for more than a decade now, while the relevance and mechanisms of soil inorganic carbon accumulation remain poorly understood. Using long‐term annual accretion monitoring over 17 years in N = 50 permanent plots distributed across a 1050‐ha salt‐marsh complex of the European Wadden Sea, we identified clear relationships between salt‐marsh vertical growth rates and the soil densities of inorganic and organic carbon. Specifically, we demonstrate a strong positive correlation between vertical accretion and inorganic carbon density while observing a strong negative correlation between vertical accretion and organic carbon density. This decoupling observed between inorganic and organic soil carbon stocks was governed by plant community composition and associated plant traits, which controlled sedimentation processes.
A Transparent and Injectable Biomaterial Prepared by Mixing Collagen and Anti‐Cancer Platinum Derivatives
Authors: Ichise Shinichiro F. , Koide Takaki
Published: March 2024

This study presents the synthesis of a cross‐linked collagen material, named platinum‐containing collagen gel (PCG), which is achieved by simply mixing collagen and derivatives of an anti‐cancer platinum complex. The cross‐linking reagents are derivatives of cisplatin or transplatin, generated through a ligand exchange with dimethyl sulfoxide. PCG exhibits superior physical strength and transparency compared with the native collagen gel formed through spontaneous fibril formation. The versatility of PCG as a cell culture scaffold, applicable to both 2D and 3D models, with low cytotoxicity is demonstrated. Furthermore, PCG exhibits pH‐responsive gel‐forming properties. This enables the removal of free cross‐linker by dialysis in an acidic solution and subsequent gel formation upon neutralization. This material holds promise for application in cell culture scaffolds and medical injections.
4D Fabrication of Two‐Way Shape Memory Polymeric Composites by Electrospinning and Melt Electrowriting
Authors: Pasini Chiara , Soreño Zhander Vohr , Schönfeld Dennis , Pretsch Thorsten , Constante Gissela , Sadilov Ilia , Ionov Leonid
Published: March 2024

This work presents a new method for 4D fabrication of two‐way shape memory materials that are capable of reversible shapeshifting right after manufacturing, upon application of proper heating and cooling cycles. The innovative solution presented here consists in the combination of highly stretched electrospun shape memory polymer (SMP) nanofibers with a melt electrowritten elastomer. More specifically, the stretched nanofibers are made of a biocompatible thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with crystallizable soft segments, undergoing melt‐induced contraction and crystallization‐induced elongation upon heating and cooling, respectively. Reversible actuation during crystallization becomes possible due to the elastic recovery of the elastomer component, obtained by melt electrowriting of a commercial TPU filament. Thanks to the design freedom offered by additive manufacturing, the elastomer structure also has the role of guiding the shape transformation. Electrospinning and melt electrowriting process parameters are set up so to obtain smart 4D objects capable of two‐way shape memory effect (SME), and the possibility of reversible and repeatable actuation is demonstrated. The two components are then combined in different proportions with the aim of tailoring the two‐way SME, taking into account the effect of design parameters such as the SMP content, the elastomer pattern, and the composite thickness.
Genome‐scale CRISPR–Cas9 screen identifies PAICS as a therapeutic target for EGFR wild‐type non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Li Yufeng , Zhu Lingyun , Mao Jiaqi , Zheng Hongrui , Hu Ziyi , Yang Suisui , Mao Tianyu , Zhou Tingting , Cao Pingping , Wu Hongshuai , Wang Xuerong , Wang Jing , Lin Fan , Shen Hua
Published: March 2024

Epidermal growth factor receptor‐targeted (EGFR‐targeted) therapies show promise for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but they are ineffective in a third of patients who lack EGFR mutations. This underlines the need for personalized treatments for patients with EGFR wild‐type NSCLC. A genome‐wide CRISPR/Cas9 screen has identified the enzyme phosphoribosylaminoimidazole carboxylase/phosphoribosylaminoimidazole succinocarboxamide synthetase (PAICS), which is vital in de novo purine biosynthesis and tumor development, as a potential drug target for EGFR wild‐type NSCLC. We have further confirmed that PAICS expression is significantly increased in NSCLC tissues and correlates with poor patient prognosis. Knockdown of PAICS resulted in a marked reduction in both in vitro and in vivo proliferation of EGFR wild‐type NSCLC cells. Additionally, PAICS silencing led to cell‐cycle arrest in these cells, with genes involved in the cell cycle pathway being differentially expressed. Consistently, an increase in cell proliferation ability and colony number was observed in cells with upregulated PAICS in EGFR wild‐type NSCLC. PAICS silencing also caused DNA damage and cell‐cycle arrest by interacting with DNA repair genes. Moreover, decreased IMPDH2 activity and activated PI3K–AKT signaling were observed in NSCLC cells with EGFR mutations, which may compromise the effectiveness of PAICS knockdown. Therefore, PAICS plays an oncogenic role in EGFR wild‐type NSCLC and represents a potential therapeutic target for this disease.
Maresin‐1 ameliorates hypertensive vascular remodeling through its receptor LGR6
Authors: Yin Zheng , Zhang Jishou , Zhao Mengmeng , Peng Shanshan , Ye Jing , Liu Jianfang , Xu Yao , Xu Shuwan , Pan Wei , Wei Cheng , Qin Juan‐Juan , Wan Jun , Wang Menglong
Published: March 2024

Hypertensive vascular remodeling is defined as the changes in vascular function and structure induced by persistent hypertension. Maresin‐1 (MaR1), one of metabolites from Omega‐3 fatty acids, has been reported to promote inflammation resolution in several inflammatory diseases. This study aims to investigate the effect of MaR1 on hypertensive vascular remodeling. Here, we found serum MaR1 levels were reduced in hypertensive patients and was negatively correlated with systolic blood pressure (SBP). The treatment of MaR1 reduced the elevation of blood pressure and alleviated vascular remodeling in the angiotensin II (AngII)‐infused mouse model. In addition, MaR1‐treated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) exhibited reduced excessive proliferation, migration, and phenotype switching, as well as impaired pyroptosis. However, the knockout of the receptor of MaR1, leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor 6 (LGR6), was seen to aggravate pathological vascular remodeling, which could not be reversed by additional MaR1 treatment. The mechanisms by which MaR1 regulates vascular remodeling through LGR6 involves the Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II/nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2/heme oxygenase‐1 signaling pathway. Overall, supplementing MaR1 may be a novel therapeutic strategy for the prevention and treatment of hypertension.
Accumulation of TOX high mobility group box family member 3 promotes the oncogenesis and development of hepatocellular carcinoma through the MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Peng Yufu , Yu Jing , Liu Fei , Tang Leyi , Li Bo , Zhang Wei , Chen Kefei , Zhang Haili , Wei Yonggang , Ma Xuelei , Shi Hubing
Published: March 2024

Microvascular invasion (MVI) has been widely valued in the field of liver surgery because MVI positivity indicates poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the potential molecular mechanism underlying the poor prognosis of MVI‐positive HCC patients is unclear. Therefore, this study focused on identifying the key genes leading to poor prognosis in patients with a high degree of malignancy of HCC by examining the molecular signaling pathways in MVI‐positive HCC patients. Through RNA sequencing, TOX high mobility group box family member 3 (TOX3) was demonstrated to be significantly highly expressed in MVI‐positive HCC tissues, which was associated with poor prognosis. The results of in vivo and in vitro showed that TOX3 can promote the oncogenesis and development of HCC by targeting key molecules of the MAPK and EMT signaling pathways. The IP‐MS results indicated that proteasome degradation of TOX3 in HCC cells is potentially mediated by a tripartite motif containing 56 (TRIM56, an E3 ligase) in HCC cells. Inhibiting TRIM56 enhances TOX3 protein levels. Overall, our study identified TOX3 as a key gene in the MAPK and EMT signaling pathways in HCC, and its overexpression confers significant proliferation and invasiveness to tumor cells.
Coffee and caffeine consumption and risk of periodontitis: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009–2014
Authors: Liao Wan‐Zhe , Zhou Zhi‐Yi , Wu Xian‐Nan , Zhu Xiao‐Feng , Li Song‐An , Zheng Jun‐Huang , Tan Jia‐Nuo , Chen Hao‐Kai , Gu Ting‐Yu , Xu Zhe , Li Ya‐Han , Guo Xu‐Guang
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate whether coffee consumption and caffeine intake are independently associated with periodontitis infection.

Methods

Coffee consumption was categorized into binary and continuous variables, serving as the exposure factor alongside caffeine intake, with periodontitis infection as the outcome variable. Other covariables were regarded as potential confounders. The cross‐sectional study was conducted based on the national health and nutrition examination survey, with multivariate regression models, subgroup analyses, smooth fitting curves, and threshold effect examinations conducted to pursue a definite correlation between exposures and the outcome.

Results

Negative associations were discovered between binary coffee consumption (OR = 0.81, 95% CI = (0.71, 0.92), p‐value = 0.001) and caffeine intake (Q3: OR = 0.77, 95% CI = (0.66, 0.91), p‐value = 0.002; Q4: OR = 0.76, 95% CI = (0.64, 0.90), p‐value = 0.001) with periodontitis infection, respectively, with all confounders adjusted. In subgroup analyses stratified by gender, diabetes mellitus status, and hypertension status, interaction, and threshold effects were observed, which were intuitively revealed by smooth‐fitting curves.

Conclusions

Significant negative associations between binary consumption and caffeine intake and periodontitis infection separately were indicated, with no evidence suggesting a credible correlation between continuous coffee consumption and infection risk of periodontitis. The benefits of the behavior of consuming coffee and caffeine were more obvious among males and individuals who did not suffer from diabetes or hypertension.
Self‐equalized linear‐phase microstrip bandpass filter based on negative group delay parallel‐coupled three‐line units
Authors: Zhang Awei , Xu Jinping , Zhiqiang Liu
Published: March 2024

A self‐equalized linear‐phase microstrip bandpass filter (BPF) utilizing negative group delay (NGD) parallel‐coupled three‐line (PCTL) units is presented in this letter. The NGD PCTL unit possesses an NGD valley in its frequency response of group delay (GD). By a combination of two or more NGD valleys, the sharp positive GD peaks at passband edges of a conventional coupled‐line BPF are counterbalanced, resulting in a linear phase response over the entire passband. A prototype of linear‐phase BPF in S‐band is designed by replacing two coupled‐line units in a three‐pole conventional BPF with the proposed NGD PCTL units. Measured passband GD fluctuation of the BPF utilizing NGD PCTL units is 0.5 ns while that of the BPF using conventional coupled‐line units is 1.7 ns, a considerable improvement of 70.5% is achieved with no increase in overall time delay. The out‐of‐band suppression is well retained, and the circuit size is 0.18 λg2.
Investigating the psychometric properties of PaRCADS—Parenting to Reduce Child Anxiety and Depression Scale in a Norwegian sample
Authors: Ytreland Kristin , Ingul Jo Magne , Lydersen Stian , Yap Marie Bee Hui , Sim Wan Hua , Sund Anne Mari , Bania Elisabeth Valmyr
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Parents play a pivotal role in child development and several parental factors have been identified as risk or protective factors for childhood anxiety and depression. To assess and target these parental factors in interventions, there is a need for a comprehensive, easy‐to‐use instrument.

Method

This study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of an adapted version of the Parenting to Reduce Child Anxiety and Depression Scale, PaRCADS(N) in a Norwegian community sample (N = 163) of parents of children aged 8–12 years.

Results

Our findings indicate that PaRCADS(N) has acceptable psychometric properties. These results are comparable to those of the original study of the PaRCADS in Australia.

Conclusion

Based on these results, we recommend that PaRCADS(N) can be utilized by health care workers as a tool for assessment and identification of parental practices related to child anxiety and/or depression to target relevant risk and protective factors in treatment and prevention.
Dispersion Polymerization of N‐Vinyl‐2‐Pyrrolidone in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide in the Presence of Thiol‐Terminated Poly(vinyl acetate‐co‐vinyl propionate)
Authors: Zhang Shoucun , Wang Shengyan , Wu Wenli , Wu Jinlong , Du Jianghua
Published: March 2024

Liquid carbon dioxide (LCO2) or supercritical carbon dioxide (ScCO2) can be used as an important solvent medium for preparing polymer particles through dispersion polymerization. However, based on the weak solvent characteristics of CO2, the development of stabilizers used in dispersion polymerization has always been an important challenge. These stabilizers are progressing toward the low‐cost, pollution‐free, and simple synthesis routes, et al. In this research, pentaerythritol tetra (3‐mercaptopropionate) (PTMP) is used to control the homopolymerization or copolymerization of vinyl acetate (VAc)/vinyl propionate (VPr), the homopolymers or copolymers with thiol group are synthesized by the one‐pot method. These homopolymers or copolymers are used as the stabilizers to stabilize the dispersion polymerization of N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NVP) in ScCO2. The results show that the structural unit proportion of the stabilizers, the concentration of stabilizers or 2, 2´‐azobis(isobutyronitrile) (AIBN), and the time interval for dispersion polymerization have significant impacts on the conversion percentage of NVP and the molecular weight of polymers. The maximum conversion percentage of NVP can get to 95%, and the molecular weight of poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone)(PNVP) can reach 22.3 kPa. SEM analysis indicates that the PNVP obtained has regular spherical characteristics.
Reference values for nerve conduction studies of the peroneal, tibial, and sural nerve derived from a large population‐based cohort: Associations with demographic and anthropometric characteristics—The Maastricht study
Authors: Hodzelmans Jurriaan J. A. , Janssen Marcus L. F. , Reulen Jos P. H. , Blijham Paul J. , Koster Annemarie , Stehouwer Coen D. A. , Mess Werner H. , Sutedja Nadia A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction/Aims

Nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are widely used to support the clinical diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders. The aims of this study were to obtain reference values for peroneal, tibial, and sural NCSs and to examine the associations with demographic and anthropometric factors.

Methods

In 5099 participants (aged 40–79 years) without type 2 diabetes of The Maastricht Study, NCSs of peroneal, tibial, and sural nerves were performed. Values for compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and sensory nerve action potential amplitude, nerve conduction velocity (NCV), and distal latency were acquired. The association of age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and height with NCS values was determined using uni‐ and multivariate linear regression analyses.

Results

Detailed reference values are reported per decade for men and women. Significantly lower NCVs and longer distal latencies were observed in all nerves in older and taller individuals as well as in men. In these groups, amplitudes of the tibial and sural nerves were significantly lower, whereas a lower peroneal nerve CMAP was only significantly associated with age. BMI showed a multidirectional association. After correction for anthropometric factors in the multivariate analysis, the association between sex and NCS values was less straightforward.

Discussion

These values from a population‐based dataset could be used as a reference for generating normative values. Our findings show the association of NCS values with anthropometric factors. In clinical practice, these factors can be considered when interpreting NCS values.
Total positivity and least squares problems in the Lagrange basis
Authors: Marco Ana , Martínez José‐Javier , Viaña Raquel
Published: March 2024

The problem of polynomial least squares fitting in the standard Lagrange basis is addressed in this work. Although the matrices involved in the corresponding overdetermined linear systems are not totally positive, rectangular totally positive Lagrange‐Vandermonde matrices are used to take advantage of total positivity in the construction of accurate algorithms to solve the considered problem. In particular, a fast and accurate algorithm to compute the bidiagonal decomposition of such rectangular totally positive matrices is crucial to solve the problem. This algorithm also allows the accurate computation of the Moore‐Penrose inverse and the projection matrix of the collocation matrices involved in these problems. Numerical experiments showing the good behaviour of the proposed algorithms are included.
Effect of cover crops on soil health at different landscape positions
Authors: Oliveira da Silva Franciny
Published: March 2024

Soil health is crucial to reaching high yields, and growing cover crops can help improve soil conditions. The goal of this study is to determine the effects of cover crops on soil health using potential respiration, potential nitrogen mineralization, and aggregates stability as indicators of soil health. The study has been conducted since 2019 at the University of Kentucky Spindletop Farm, Lexington, KY, and involves three landscape positions receiving a treatment with cereal rye, cereal rye–crimson clover mixture, and fallow soil. This study emphasized that cover crops can enhance potential respiration and microbial activity over landscape positions, with rye being more beneficial than the mixture treatment. However, cover crops were also beneficial for aggregate stability but not for potential nitrogen mineralization.
A cattle mandible thong‐smoother from a grave: Strap production and cattle traction in the Late Copper Age in Hungary
Authors: Gál Erika , Rácz Piroska , Bondár Mária
Published: March 2024

A recently found cattle‐based mandibular thong‐smoother, which was the only bone tool in the Baden culture burial of a 6–10‐year‐old child at the site of Balatonlelle‐Rádpuszta‐Romtemplom mellett (western Hungary), represents the best‐preserved Eneolithic implement in this category ever published in Hungary. Being one of the oldest specimens from the distribution area of mandibular thong‐smoothers, it brings new information regarding the origin and possible use of this rarely identified type of tool linked to strap and thong‐making in the period from the Eneolithic to the Middle Bronze Age. Having been recovered from the grave of a child, it draws attention to the possibility that children may have been involved in strap production. The evaluation of analogies from and outside of Hungary also offered a complex review of mandibular thong‐smoothers. In addition to the role of these implements in taming and driving horses already discussed in the specialist literature, we also point to their involvement in the use of harnessed cattle for draught and transport, and its linkage to the spread of wagon and carriage in the wake of the 4th millennium.
The impact of a preoperative evaluation process on weight reduction and glycemic control in patients undergoing bariatric and metabolic surgery
Authors: Tempany Jennifer , Collier Andrew , Ali Abdulmajid
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Metabolic surgery is a sustainable intervention for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Preoperative education optimizes weight loss and glycemic control outcomes.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the effect of a generalized preoperative evaluation process (PEP) in patients who underwent bariatric surgery on weight loss and glycemic control pre‐ and post‐surgery.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected and analyzed for patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent bariatric surgery between 2010 and 2016. Patients were categorized into two groups determined by participation in the PEP. The groups were named the PEP group and non‐PEP group. The correlation among engagement in the PEP was determined using the chi‐square test and t‐test. Statistical analysis with p < 0.05 was deemed significant.

Results

129 patients were included in the study; 86 females (67%) and 43 males (33%). Fifty‐nine patients (46%) engaged in the PEP and 70 (54%) patients did not engage in the PEP. A greater reduction in weight loss was observed in the PEP group versus the non‐PEP group from initial enrollment to pre‐surgery (14.3 ± 9.2 kg vs. 11.6 ± 9.2 kg; p = 0.11), and from pre‐surgery to 2‐years post‐surgery (20.6 ± 14.8 kg vs. 16.9 ± 15.6 kg; p = 0.17). A greater reduction in HbA1c from initial enrollment to pre‐surgery was seen in the PEP group versus the non‐PEP group (0.90 ± 1.28% vs. 0.63 ± 1.07%); however, this was not maintained from pre‐surgery to 2‐year post‐surgery (0.51 ± 1.18% vs. 0.70 ± 1.73%). In both cases, the statistical difference was insignificant.

Conclusion

The PEP was not associated with improvements in short‐term weight loss or glycemic control pre‐surgery and a 2‐years post‐surgery. Patients may benefit from individually tailored preoperative weight management strategies.
Social strategies to access land influence crop diversity in northwestern Morocco
Authors: Demongeot Marilou , Hmimsa Younes , McKey Doyle , Aumeeruddy‐Thomas Yildiz , Renard Delphine
Published: March 2024

Much evidence supports the ecological and agronomic benefits of diversity, of both crops and environments, for building resilience and sustainability in agroecosystems. Farmers' knowledge about crop diversity is well‐documented, but aside from studies on how farmers exchange seeds and knowledge through networks, the interactions of social factors and the diversity of crops and cultivated environments have been mainly overlooked. One factor receiving attention is farmers' access to land, but in only one of its dimensions, the security of access. Here we address the different strategies by which farmers gain access to land. How does the plurality of modes of access to land influence crop choices, and thereby crop diversity? How does this plurality influence the range of environments available to individual farmers for cultivating crop diversity?

Analysing data from 51 interviews with farmers and 312 plots in agrosilvopastoral systems in northwestern Morocco, we described eight different modes of access. Each mode offers different opportunities and constraints concerning the kind of crops that can be grown on the plot. We found that an increase in the number of modes of access to land increases the crop diversity of farmers' holdings, regardless of the total area each farmer cultivates. Accessing additional plots contributed to both environmental heterogeneity and to crop diversity of farms.

In striving to gain access to land and to grow diverse crops, farmers are motivated by their notion of what it means to be a ‘real farmer’, that is, the relation to their identity. Farmers mobilize not only their economic power but also their social relationships to gain access to plots of land. Their choices are also based on their relationships to tree crops such as olive, which are economic and cultural keystone species, as well as markers of land ownership and control.

Multiple modes of access to land characterize many smallholder farming systems, which support a large fraction of the world's population. Recognizing diverse social practices of access to land that allow farmers to continue to mobilize multiple modes of access can increase resilience against unpredictable events and help maintain sustainable agroecosystems.

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