bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Temporal and Spatial Characterization of CUL3KLHL20-driven Targeted Degradation of BET family, BRD Proteins by the Macrocycle-based Degrader BTR2004
Authors: Fechtmeyer Phoebe H. , Yeh Johannes T.-H. 
Published: December 2024

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

AbstractPhagocytosis is mediated mainly by immune cells, such as macrophages, monocytes and neutrophils, that function to clear large pathogens including bacteria. The small GTP-binding protein Rab5 is crucial for clathrin-dependent endocytosis as well as phagocytosis. However, the role and mechanism of Rab5 activation during phagocytosis are poorly understood. Here we report that nitric oxide (NO), a novel regulator of Rab5, regulates phagocytosis through S-nitrosylation of Rab5. NO can promote phagocytosis by activating Rab5 in cultured cells, and it potently S-nitrosylates active Rab5 compared to inactive Rab5. Moreover, we demonstrate that two cysteine residues in the C terminus of Rab5 are S-nitrosylated and are important for phagocytosis. Experiments involving mice also showed that NO activates Rab5 and increases levels of S-nitrosylated Rab5 and that NO is involved in phagocytic bacterial clearance mediated by peritoneal macrophages. These data suggest that NO promotes S-nitrosylation of Rab5 to act as a novel Rab5 activator and a key regulator of phagocytosis.HighlightsNO promotes phagocytosisNO directly activates Rab5 and increases Rab5 S-nitrosylationS-nitrosylation C-terminal Rab5 cysteines residues is involved in phagocytosisNO increases Rab5 S-nitrosylation and activity to promote bacterial clearance in vivo
Antifungal activity of protamine
Authors: Jeyarajan Sivakumar , Kumarasamy Anbarasu 
Published: December 2024

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

PurposeEnvironmental, social and governance (ESG) can enhance the sustainable value and profitability of assets by improving environmental responsibility, social benefits and governance quality. However, there is a lack of research on the ESG aspects of the asset sustainability of infrastructure Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), particularly in terms of how ESG affects asset sustainability and their intrinsic relationships. Therefore, this study aims to explore the ESG factors affecting the asset sustainability of infrastructure REITs and their intrinsic linkages, in order to enhance the long-term sustainability of the asset.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze the relationship between ESG factors and the sustainability of infrastructure REITs, through a comprehensive literature review and questionnaire survey to collect data. This method aims to provide a quantitative analysis framework to assess the impact strength and interactions of these factors.FindingsThe 11 ESG factors positively influence the sustainability of infrastructure assets. Specifically, carbon emission management, information disclosure and infrastructure asset management have the most substantial impacts, with path coefficients of 0.830, 0.814 and 0.817, respectively. Measures such as optimizing resource use, enhancing transparency and improving operational efficiency contribute to increased asset sustainability. Also, interviews indicate that asset managers and corporate executives with overseas educational backgrounds play a crucial role in the ESG management of infrastructure assets. Sustainability can be enhanced by promoting sustainable technologies and enhancing cross-cultural communication.Practical implicationsThe results offer guidance for infrastructure REIT managers and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of strengthening specific ESG practices to enhance sustainability. This provides an empirical basis for optimizing ESG policies and practices, helping to advance infrastructure REITs towards more sustainable development directions.Originality/valueThis study offers new insights into the field of ESG for infrastructure REITs in China by providing specific analysis of ESG factors and applying SEM. The originality of this study lies in its deep exploration of the specific impact factors within the ESG dimensions and quantifying their relationship with sustainability, offering strong scientific support for the sustainable development practices of infrastructure REIT.
The key determinants of digital repayment performance of ultra-micro entrepreneurs in Indonesia microfinance institution
Authors: Rohmana Lailiya , Wulandari Permata 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThis study aims to determine the factors that impact the success of loan repayment in the ultra-micro (UMi) program in Indonesia through the application of ordinal logistic regression. Several microfinance institutions in Indonesia have already adopted digital applications to optimize their daily operational procedures, hence facilitating efficient operations. However, the success and sustainability of microfinance institutions may be proven by their capacity to increase profitability and boost the repayment track record of borrowers. The repayment performance is categorized into five levels: collectability-1 (pass), collectability-2 (special mention), collectability-3 (substandard), collectability-4 (doubtful) and collectability-5 (loss).Design/methodology/approach A sample size of 600 was used to collect data from a non-banking financial business (NBFC) in Indonesia. The data were collected from historical transactions carried out in different locations around Indonesia 20 provinces in total.Findings The research illustrates those variables such as income, loan size, repaid scheme, loan tenure and business sector significantly influence the performance of loan repayment. However, this study clarifies that the probability of a borrower not defaulting on their loan is affected by the flexibility of the repayment method for making the payment.Practical implications The paper suggests that financial institutions in Indonesia should reevaluate their loan policy for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and develop a more flexible credit system that considers the borrower’s characteristics.Originality/value This study enhances the current body of research on the digital repayment performance of ultra-micro enterprises in Indonesia. This observation has significance in the context of policy decision-making and policy reversal, as it underscores the need to promote and implement skill development initiatives nationwide to foster the growth of sustainable UMi enterprises. The performed research recognizes the need to take into account the comprehensive assessment of digital repayment performance. Consequently, it offered valuable information on the borrowers, loans and business characteristics of ultra-micro enterprises.
The role of promotions and other factors in attendance for minor league baseball – a study across all levels of play
Authors: Paul Rodney , Baris Daniel , Kuchenbaur Hunter , Soos Jonah 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThe main purpose of this research was to determine what types of promotions increase Minor League Baseball attendance across all of the official leagues. The secondary purpose was to ascertain the role of other control variables such as win percentage, weather, days of the week, start time and city demographics. The research also includes a grouping of cities through k-means clustering to better understand what types of promotions work in what cities.Design/methodology/approachData were gathered on all the Minor League Baseball teams and their respective cities. Regression models were run to test for the role of individual promotions (structured as dummy variables) and other controls. One model specification used city demographic variables, one used city fixed effects rather than city demographics and the final specification used k-means clustering to separate cities into distinct groups.FindingsPromotions generally were found to increase attendance, although there were differences across levels of play. K-means clustering helped with the grouping of cities to ascertain which types of promotions were beneficial when comparing large metropolitan areas to high-income cities.Research limitations/implicationsPromotions were grouped into common categories, although some were difficult to classify (or were infrequent), so a miscellaneous promotions category was included to capture these promotions in Minor League Baseball.Practical implicationsThe findings of this research are beneficial to those designing promotional schedules for individual teams. It also is beneficial to the leagues as the findings have implications as it relates to what fans desire to see when attending minor league games.Originality/valueThe originality in this work is the collection of all Minor League Baseball attendance, city information and promotional information across the different levels of play (AAA, AA, High-A and A). Using different model specifications and groupings, including k-means clustering to match similar cities, successful promotions were identified.
The Characteristics and Clinical Analysis of Lorenz Plot of Neonatal Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: Zheng Fei , Yu Tingting , Wei Xin , Wen Jie , Li Hualian 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundLorenz plot (LP) analysis enhances the accuracy of arrhythmia diagnosis and serves as an attractive diagnostic tool for patients with arrhythmias. We explored the utility of the LP in the classification of various types of neonatal atrial tachycardia and evaluated the treatment effects and prognosis.MethodsNinety‐six newborns with atrial tachycardia had their dynamic electrocardiograms and clinical data collected between January 2018 and June 2023. They were divided into different atrial tachycardia groups based on the morphological characteristics of the LP. The clinical features of the patients in each group were also analyzed.ResultsNeonates were divided into multifocal (30%, 31.25%), parasystole (19%, 19.79%), and atrial premature beat‐induced atrial tachycardia (47%, 48.96%) groups. It was demonstrated that the prevalence of cardiac structural abnormalities, viral infections, myocardial injury, and heart failure was significantly increased in the multifocal atrial tachycardia group.ConclusionsThe analysis of distinct LP patterns allowed for the identification and classification of neonatal atrial tachycardia, which could improve the diagnostic efficiency of neonatal atrial tachycardia and assist clinical physicians in making better management strategies based on the type of atrial tachycardia.
Computerized QT and QTc Measurements From Bedside ICU Monitors Are Similar to Those Derived From a Standard 12‐Lead ECG
Authors: Murray Arthur , Ho Karolina , Hoffmann Thomas J. , Ganesh Gopika K. , Prasad Shelvin , Berger Sarah , Sandoval Cass , Larsen Amy , Schell‐Chaple Hildy , Pelter Michele M. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTQT/QTc prolongation is associated with an increased risk for torsade de pointes. In at‐risk hospitalized patients, it is common to obtain a standard 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) for this assessment, but this interrupts patient care. Our hospital recently introduced bedside monitors in the intensive care unit (ICU) with continuous QT/QTc software. However, only four of the seven available ECG leads are used.PurposeEvaluate the agreement between computerized QT/QTc measurements from the bedside monitor (four leads) and a time‐matched standard 12‐lead ECG.DesignProspective observational study in three adult ICUs.MethodsQT/QTc measurements were obtained from a convenience sample, and the two ECG types were ≤ 30 min apart. Agreement was evaluated using Bland–Altman analysis.ResultsA total of 120 patients were evaluated for inclusion, and 60 (50%) had a 12‐lead ECG for comparison. The mean bias difference for QT measurements was not statistically different (β = −2.47, 95% CI = 5.50 to −11.05; p = 0.44; limits of agreement (LOA) = −64.37 to 59.44). Similar non‐statistical differences were observed for QTc (β = −3.20, 95% CI = 5.50 to −11.05; p = 0.44; LOA = −67.43 to 61.03).ConclusionThere was good agreement for both QT and QTc measurements between the two methods. These pilot data are promising and suggest QT/QTc measurements from bedside monitors (four leads) may be an acceptable alternative to obtaining additional standard 12‐lead ECGs. Given that half of the ICU patients screened did not have a 12‐lead ECG recorded, bedside monitor QT/QTc's could identify at‐risk patients. However, an evaluation in a larger sample and non‐ICU patients is warranted.
Transient Left Bundle Branch Block Induced Acute Heart Failure as a Consequence of Ramus Intermedius Occlusion
Authors: Eren Mehmet , Velibey Yalcin 
Published: December 2024

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

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

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

ABSTRACTBackgroundReverse the fat accumulation and to improve body contouring with more safely than invasive procedures has become a necessary therapeutic approach, but little detailed when using LED photobiomodulation.AimsTo evaluate an application protocol with two different wavelengths (red and infrared LED) consecutively in the abdomen region alone or associated with the dermocosmetics application with lipolytic properties.MethodsNinety patients with a significant amount of adipose tissue in the abdomen region were selected and randomized into three groups: Sham (SG), in which patients received a simulation of the treatment; LED (LG), in which participants received the application with LED; LED with dermocosmetic (LDG), in which the participants underwent a combination of LED and dermocosmetic treatment. The following assessments were carried out: anthropometric data (weight, height, perimetry, and adipometry); ultrasound examination to adipose layer; patient satisfaction questionnaire; histology of a donated a tissue sample.ResultsThe main findings were a decrease in umbilical perimetry, a significant decrease in the body fat layer determined by ultrasound and significant histological changes that indicated an improvement in the appearance of the skin and an increase in the amount of macrophages in the subcutaneous layer. Histological data also showed an improvement in the appearance of the skin with an increase in collagen deposition and an increase in macrophages in the subcutaneous layer.ConclusionsThe LED phototherapy application protocol, both alone and in association with the dermocosmetic, with the emission of two consecutive wavelengths, was effective in reducing the fat tissue in the abdomen region.
Treatment of Delayed Hypersensitivity After Injection of Nasal Fillers
Authors: Jiang Liya , Chen Fei , He Meiyang , Zhou Yuejie , Wei Qingqian , Hu Jintian 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundSoft tissue filler injection is the second most commonly performed cosmetic procedure worldwide, with augmentation rhinoplasty being the most common filling surgery in Asian countries because Asians predominantly have a low nasal bridge. With the increasing pursuit of beauty, the adverse reactions after injection not only damage the patient's appearance but also greatly affect their quality of life. Therefore, exploring effective methods to address adverse reactions after nasal filler injections is necessary.AimsHerein, we aimed to explore safe and effective drug doses and concentrations for the treatment of two patients who developed an allergic reaction after a nasal filling by intralesional drug injection.MethodsTwo patients developed severe swelling and deformity of the nose after the injection of fillers 6 months to 1 year prior to presentation. High‐frequency ultrasound and local conditions revealed inflammation in the injected area. The patients were administered the combination of 0.7% triamcinolone acetonide, 0.42% 5‐fluorouracil, and 0.7% lidocaine into the affected area; they were followed up for 6 months.ResultsAfter three times of treatment, swelling and sclerosis disappeared after 44.5 ± 2.12 days. No adverse effects of the infections were observed.ConclusionsThis drug regimen may represent a safe and effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of complications after soft tissue filler injections.