bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Annexin A1 Protein Mimetic Peptide Ac2‐26 prevents cellular senescence of CHON‐001 chondrocytes against tumor necrosis factor‐α via the Nrf2/NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Yang Lei , Gong Kaijian , Ren Guoxing , Chen Bo 
Published: November 2024

AbstractOsteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by progressive cartilage degradation. Excessive oxidative stress (OS), inflammatory responses, extracellular matrix breakdown, and cellular senescence of chondrocytes play crucial roles in the pathological development of OA. Currently, curing OA remains a significant challenge. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the protective effects of Annexin A1 protein Mimetic Peptide (Ac2‐26) against tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)‐induced damage in CHON‐001 chondrocytes by assessing cellular senescence, OS, and the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐13 (MMP‐13) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)‐4. Our results show that Ac2‐26 mitigated the reduction of telomerase activity and the exacerbation of cellular senescence induced by TNF‐α in CHON‐001 chondrocytes. Treatment with TNF‐α led to decreased expression of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase gene and increased expression of the telomeric repeat‐binding factor 2 gene, which were reversed by Ac2‐26 treatment. The TNF‐α‐induced increases in the gene and protein expressions of p53 and p16 were restored by Ac2‐26 in a dose‐dependent manner. Additionally, we found that TNF‐α caused elevations in the mRNA and protein levels of MMP‐13 and ADAMTS‐4, which were reduced by Ac2‐26 in a dose‐dependent fashion. Furthermore, TNF‐α triggered the activation of nuclear factor κ‐B (NF‐κB) by increasing the levels of phosphorylated NF‐κB p65 and the luciferase activity of NF‐κB. Notably, Ac2‐26 alleviated OS by reducing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels and promoting the activation of NF‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) in TNF‐α‐challenged CHON‐001 chondrocytes. Silencing Nrf2 abolished the Ac2‐26‐induced activation of NF‐κB and cellular senescence in CHON‐001 chondrocytes. Collectively, these findings offer new insights into the potential therapeutic use of Ac2‐26 for treating OA.
A simple approach to biophysical profiling of blood cells in extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma patients using deep learning‐integrated image cytometry
Authors: Park Seongcheol , Yoon Sang Eun , Song Youngho , Tian Changyu , Baek Changi , Cho Hyunji , Kim Won Seog , Kim Seok Jin , Cho Soo‐Yeon 
Published: November 2024

AbstractExtranodal NK/T cell lymphoma (ENKTL) poses significant challenges in efficient treatment processes due to its aggressive nature and high recurrence rates. There is a critical need to develop a robust statistical model to predict treatment efficacy by dynamically quantifying biomarkers tailored to various stages of lymphoma. Recent analytics such as sequencing and microbiome tests have only been utilized to understand lymphoma progression and treatment response in clinical settings. However, these methods are limited by their quantitative analysis capabilities, long turnaround times, and lack of single‐cell resolution, which are essential for understanding the heterogeneous nature of lymphoma. In this study, we developed a deep learning‐enhanced image cytometry (DLIC) to investigate biophysical heterogeneities in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from newly diagnosed (ND) ENKTL patients. We established a substantial cohort of 23 ND ENKTL patients, categorizing them into interim of treatment (n = 21) and end of treatment (n = 19) stages along their serial treatment timelines. Using a basic optical microscope and a commercial microchip, we analyzed over 270,000 single PBMCs in high‐throughput, profiling their size, eccentricity, and refractive index in a completely label‐free and quantified manner through AI‐based nanophotonic computation. We observed distinct heterogeneity variations in these three biophysical indicators across treatment stages and relapse statuses, revealing solid mechanistic correlations among the phenotypes. We established a three‐dimensional single‐cell distribution map for ENKTL patients and created a standard for quantifying the change in occupational volume. Leveraging this extensive database, DLIC offers on‐site analytics in clinical settings, facilitating treatment assessment and prognosis prediction through label‐free biophysical analysis of patient PBMCs, extracted directly without additional sample preparation.
The Impact of Flipped Learning and Digital Laboratory in Basic Electronics Coursework
Authors: Portillo Francisco , Soler‐Ortiz Manuel , Sanchez‐Cruzado Cristina , Garcia Rosa M. , Novas Nuria 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTAdvancements in electronics and the rapid evolution of technology necessitate that higher education institutions continuously adapt their curricula to accommodate new teaching methodologies and emergent tools. This paper examines the impact of integrating flipped learning and digital laboratories into practical sessions of a Basic Electronics course by analyzing 5 years of data. Using an action research methodology, the research was conducted through three phases: traditional in‐person teaching, fully online instruction during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and a hybrid model combining flipped classrooms, digital laboratories, and in‐person sessions. The findings reveal that the hybrid model, blending digital and traditional methods, significantly enhanced student performance, particularly in practical tasks. Furthermore, digital laboratories provide students with a risk‐free environment to simulate real‐world electronic scenarios, fostering deeper cognitive engagement and reducing the cognitive load during in‐person sessions. The flipped classroom structure encouraged active learning and peer collaboration, which led to greater student motivation, lower absenteeism, and improved learning outcomes. Additionally, students demonstrated a marked increase in their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems, highlighting the effectiveness of this approach in bridging the gap between theory and practice. This model enhances cognitive and motivational learning dimensions, providing a balanced, effective approach to modern engineering education. The results can potentially contribute to the understanding of effective pedagogical strategies in adapting engineering education to meet the challenges of the digital age.
Chemical Warfare in the Environment—Secondary Metabolites From Starfish (Asterias amurensis) Induce Teratogenicity in Medaka Embryos (Oryzias melastigma)
Authors: Lu Zhen , Wang Derui , Li Xiaodong , Yan Zhi , Yin Xiuli , Xu Youhou , Wang Song , Li Ke 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTStarfish saponins, known for their role as feeding deterrents against predators like crabs and fish, have been extensively studied for their antifeedant and cytolytic effects. Recent research suggests that starfish secondary metabolites possess antifouling and antifeedant properties and play a role in biological interactions and various ecological functions. Previous research demonstrated that saponins from starfish exert their toxic effects on fish by interacting with cholesterol in the blood cell membrane. This study investigated the hypothesis that secondary metabolites, other than saponins, from the starfish Asterias amurensis may be harmful to fish eggs, particularly marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) eggs, which share starfish habitat. We systematically separated the secondary metabolites of A. amurensis by a variety of chromatographic methods. Two oligoglycosides related to embryonic teratogenicity were identified, including one previously undescribed tetrasaccharide (1) and one known pyrrole oligoglycoside (2). Their structures were established mainly on the basis of detailed analysis of the nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and mass spectroscopic data. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited strong lethality and significantly reduced voluntary movements in medaka embryos, with compound 2 showing more pronounced effects on teratogenicity and heart rates. The main morphological abnormalities observed included delayed head development (DHD), tiny spines (TS), incomplete absorption of oil balls (OB), cardiac abnormalities (CA), and shrunken yolk sacs (SYS). Our findings imply that starfish secondary metabolites may have broader ecological effects, influencing habitat‐sharing species in subtle but crucial ways.
Diagnostic Dilemma: Investigating Respiratory Symptoms in a Middle‐Aged Smoker
Authors: Nezhad Nazanin Zeinali , Fekri Mitra Samareh , Shahpar Amirhossein , Nakhaie Mohsen , Khazaeli Mana , Farrokhnia Mehrdad , Salajegheh Faranak 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThis case report presents a diagnostic challenge encountered in a 65‐year‐old male admitted with fever, dyspnea, chest pain, and hemoptysis, alongside constitutional symptoms including weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue. Despite initial suspicion for pulmonary thromboembolism and empirical antibiotic therapy for pneumonia, subsequent bronchoscopic evaluation revealed acute necrotizing granulomatous bronchitis, strongly indicative of endobronchial tuberculosis (TB). This diagnosis emphasizes the importance of considering TB in patients with chronic respiratory symptoms, particularly in high‐risk populations. Management involves initiating multidrug antitubercular therapy, close monitoring, infection control measures, and patient education. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in optimizing outcomes and reducing disease burden in TB.
Plastic recycling: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Sambyal Pradeep , Najmi Parisa , Sharma Devansh , Khoshbakhti Ehsan , Hosseini Hadi , Milani Abbas S. , Arjmand Mohammad 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis review offers an in‐depth exploration of current strategies for recycling plastic waste, focusing on mechanical, chemical, and energy recovery methods. It situates these strategies within the context of modern practices by examining ongoing research methodologies and specific case studies related to various types of plastic waste. The global crisis of plastic waste, along with various pre‐treatment methods, is thoroughly discussed. The section on mechanical recycling details the processes applicable to different plastics, highlighting key challenges such as thermo‐mechanical issues, the use of fillers to enhance certain properties, and material degradation over time. This discussion includes polymers such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), high‐density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). Chemical recycling is analyzed through advanced techniques like pyrolysis, catalytic pyrolysis, solvolysis, and gasification, presenting the state‐of‐the‐art in this field. Additionally, the review touches upon energy recovery and the challenges associated with it. Conclusively, the study delves into the applications of recycled plastics and outlines future challenges. Overall, this review aims to provide a thorough overview and practical guidance on the recycling of plastic waste, offering essential insights for further development in this area.
Numerical simulation of a three‐dimensional passive micromixer with flexible and designable baffle modules
Authors: Zou Jixu , Chen Xinkun , Chen Xueye , Cui Yuming 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis paper presents a new type of three‐dimensional variable‐angle electro‐osmotic micromixer. By introducing the electric field effect into it, the voltage, baffle structure, and electrode structure in the mixing process are studied. The results show that when the voltage value is close to 1 V and the baffles are alternately placed at an angle of 30°, the micromixer performs best. At low Reynolds numbers (Re), the electric field is closely related to the mixing efficiency, which proves that the alternating placement of microelectrodes can effectively improve the mixing efficiency. This study provides a new method for improving the mixing efficiency of micromixers and has broad application prospects in many fields such as chemical analysis, drug delivery, and biological detection.
Eating‐Specific Interpersonal Difficulties: Changes and Impacts on Outcomes During Ten‐Session Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT‐T)
Authors: Arai Mia , Tonta Kate E. , Erceg‐Hurn David M. , Raykos Bronwyn C. , Waller Glenn , McEvoy Peter M. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe relationship between self‐reported interpersonal difficulties and eating disorder symptoms is well‐established. The Interpersonal Relationships in Eating Disorders (IR‐ED) is a new measure of eating‐specific interpersonal difficulties (food‐related isolation, avoidance of body evaluation, foot‐related interpersonal tension). This study aims to (1) explore changes in IR‐ED scores, eating disorder symptoms, and psychosocial impairment during ten‐session cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders (CBT‐T), (2) assess whether pre‐treatment IR‐ED scores moderate the trajectory of change in eating disorder symptoms and psychosocial impairment during CBT‐T and (3) investigate the relationship between changes in the IR‐ED and changes in eating disorder symptoms and psychosocial impairment.MethodIndividuals with eating disorders (N = 126, Mage = 26.08) received CBT‐T and completed questionnaires at pre‐, mid‐, and post‐treatment.ResultsEating‐specific interpersonal difficulties, eating disorder symptoms, and psychosocial impairment reduced during CBT‐T. Severity of pre‐treatment eating‐specific interpersonal difficulties was unrelated to change in eating disorder symptoms or psychosocial impairment, irrespective of diagnosis or body mass index. Changes in interpersonal difficulties were associated with concurrent changes in eating disorder symptoms and psychosocial impairment. Early change in interpersonal difficulties did not predict later change in eating disorder symptoms or psychosocial impairment, and early changes in symptoms or psychosocial impairment did not predict later changes in interpersonal difficulties.ConclusionsEating‐specific interpersonal difficulties improve during CBT‐T, and individuals benefit from treatment regardless of their pre‐treatment interpersonal difficulties. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.
Analysis of the usefulness and benefits of ultrafiltration in cardiorenal syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Guerrero Cervera Borja , López‐Vilella Raquel , Donoso Trenado Víctor , Peris‐Fernández María , Carmona Paula , Soldevila Amparo , Tormo Sergi , Devesa Ramón , Montero Hernández María Jesús , Martínez Dolz Luis , Hernández Jaras Julio , Sánchez‐Pérez Pilar , Almenar‐Bonet Luis 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAimsCardiac decompensation in cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) results in systemic congestion usually treated with diuretics. When despite high doses of diuretics, response is poor, ultrafiltration (UF) appears to be a useful and safe technique. The aim of the study was to analyse, by means of a systematic review, the efficacy and safety of UF versus conventional diuretic treatment.Methods and resultsSearch of the main databases (Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) identifying comparative studies of UF versus diuretic therapy, from 2000 to the present. After screening the studies, 13 studies were analysed; 1100 patients (UF: 532, diuretic treatment: 568). Renal function: UF showed a trend to lower creatinine at discharge (SME = −0.68; 95% CI −1.50 to 0.13; I2 = 97%) with no difference in glomerular filtration rate (SME = 0.05; 95% CI −0.17 to 0.27; I2 = 0%). Diuretic response: With UF, there was a trend towards greater weight loss (SME = 1.82; 95% CI −0.79 to 4.42; I2 = 99.7%) and greater volume removed (SME = 3.04; 95% CI −2.13 to 8.20; I2 = 99.8%). Morbidity and mortality: No difference in days of hospital stay (LogOR = −0.14; 95% CI −0.52 to 0.23; I2 = 66.9%) and mortality at 1 month (LogOR = −0.04; 95% CI −0.34 to 0.44; I2 = 0%) but reduction in readmissions in patients with UF (LogOR = −0.60; 95% CI −0.94 to −0.26; I2 = 40.5%).ConclusionsIn decompensated HF and CRS with inadequate diuretic response, UF versus diuretic intensification is an effective and safe option; it reduces readmissions with a tendency to decrease weight, creatinine levels and increase volume depletion without affecting mortality. Prospective randomised studies with a sufficient number of patients are needed to corroborate these results.
Trametinib alters contractility of paediatric Noonan syndrome‐associated hypertrophic myocardial tissue slices
Authors: Hamers Jules , Sen Payel , Murthi Sarala Raj , Papanakli Laura , von Stumm Maria , Baessato Francesca , Cleuziou Julie , Meierhofer Christian , Ewert Peter , Dendorfer Andreas , Merkus Daphne , Wolf Cordula M. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAimsNo curative treatment is available for RASopathy‐associated childhood‐onset hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (RAS‐CM). Preclinical data and individual reports suggest a beneficial effect of small molecules targeting the RAS–mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase (MAPK) pathway in severely affected RAS‐CM patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biophysical effects of trametinib, rapamycin and dasatinib on cultivated myocardial tissue slices of a paediatric RAS‐CM patient using biomimetic cultivation chambers (BMCCs) and to correlate the findings with clinical data.MethodsContracting right ventricular (RV) tissue slices were prepared from resected myocardium, cultivated in BMCCs and treated with distinct molecules directly and indirectly targeting the RAS–MAPK pathway (trametinib, rapamycin and dasatinib) or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Tissue biophysical properties were assessed using electrical stimulation protocols. Contractile function, force–frequency relationship and post‐pause potentiation were compared before and after treatment. These parameters correlated to L‐type Ca2+ channel function and sarcoplasmic Ca2+ loading.ResultsIn vivo, off‐label treatment with MAPK kinase (MEK) inhibitor trametinib of a child with severe RAS‐CM resulted in a modest reduction of RV outflow tract (RVOT) obstruction (RVOT 151 to 122 mmHg after 11 weeks) and improved diastolic function (E/A 0.68 to 1.09 after 11 weeks) and myocardial strain [RV global radial strain (RV‐GRS) 25.94 to 42.76; RV global circumferential strain (RV‐GCS) −15.26 to −18.61; and RV global longitudinal strain (RV‐GLS) −10.31 to −16.78 at 11 weeks], as determined by echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance tomography. In cultivated RV myocardial tissue slices, contraction force decreased after addition of trametinib and rapamycin but not after addition of DMSO and dasatinib. Improvement of Ca2+ handling, as depicted by a more positive force–frequency relationship and enhanced post‐pause potentiation (31.2%), was noted in the trametinib‐treated slice. The increase in post‐pause potentiation was less pronounced in rapamycin‐treated (26%) and absent in dasatinib‐treated (<1%) slices.ConclusionsEx vivo analysis of cultivated and electrically stimulated RV myocardial tissue slices of a patient with RAS‐CM showed decreased contractility and improved sarcoplasmic reticulum function after addition of trametinib and in part after addition of rapamycin, but not after addition of dasatinib.
An Experimental Study on the Effects of Sediment Particle Characteristics on the Flow Velocity Correction Factor for Runoff in Steep Nonerodible Rills
Authors: Zhang Zhenggang , Tao Changwu , Ha Fang , Wang Hua , Shen Haoming , Zhang Yue , Lin Jinshi , Huang Yanhe , Jiang Fangshi 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTFlow velocity is a key hydraulic variable in the exploration of rill erosion and is usually estimated by multiplying the surface flow velocity of runoff (measured with the dye tracer method) by the flow correction factor (a). However, there are differences among different experimental conditions, and the selection of the right value of a has become critical for accurately estimating the mean flow velocity. There has been little research on velocity correction factors for hyperconcentrated flows on steep slopes. In this study, gravel‐laden sediment (mass fraction of gravel in the sample ranging from 0% to 70%, corresponding to a median diameter of 0.08–2.95 mm) was used as the test material, and different slopes (18%–84%) and unit flow discharges (1.11–4.44 × 10−3 m2 s−1) were considered to investigate the effects of gravel‐laden sediment particle characteristics on runoff a and to elucidate the mechanism of the effects of different hydrodynamic parameters on runoff a. Under the experimental conditions, the value of a ranged from 0.285 to 0.690. a increases with increasing flow discharge and slope, with flow discharge having a greater effect than slope. With increasing gravel content and median diameter (d50), a decreased initially but then stabilised. Additionally, a decreased with increasing sediment content but increased with increasing Reynolds number (Re). Based on the results of this experiment, 0.37, 0.49 and 0.60 are recommended as the correction factors of surface flow velocity for laminar flow (Re ≤ 500), transitional flow (500 < Re ≤ 2000) and turbulent flow (Re > 2000), respectively. Equation (16), which is based on the hydraulic parameters and sediment particle characteristics, has the best accuracy (Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient [NSE] > 0.9). The research results quantified the impact of sediment particle characteristics on a, contributing to the advancement of hydrodynamic studies on rill flow.
Uromodulin and the study of urinary extracellular vesicles
Authors: Harding Michael A. , Yavuz Hayrettin , Gathmann Annika , Upson Samantha , Swiatecka‐Urban Agnieszka , Erdbrügger Uta 
Published: November 2024

AbstractUrinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs) are a promising substrate for discovering new biomarkers. In order to investigate the origin of uEVs and the cargo they carry, some types of downstream analysis of uEVs may require concentration and enrichment as well as removal of contaminating substances. Co‐isolation of the abundant urinary protein uromodulin with uEVs can be a problem, and may interfere with some techniques, in particular with proteomic analysis tools. Methods of separating out uromodulin and its removal have also not been standardized. This review highlights aspects of uromodulin structure that makes it recalcitrant to separation from uEVs, summarizes frequently used techniques for uEV enrichment and how they affect uromodulin separation, and specific methods for uromodulin removal during preparation of uEVs. The necessity of uromodulin removal for various study endpoints is also examined.
The State of Infrastructure in the Proclaimed Small Harbours in Enhancing Livelihoods in South Africa
Authors: Maphumulo Mashimane Njabulo , Masuku Mfundo Mandla 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe South African small harbours development is rooted in the colonial era, but over centuries, their conditions have depreciated. This paper argues that proclaimed small harbours face significant infrastructural challenges and their impact on enhancing livelihoods. Secondary data were extracted from peer‐reviewed scholarly, media articles and government documents. Three phases of comprehensive literature review were employed to elucidate the phenomenon under study. The findings propound small harbours are characterised by infrastructural decay and inequalities that render them incompatible with inclusive development. The study recommends that the government develop a small harbours regulation framework to ensure inclusivity and sustainability of livelihoods.