bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Weight Reduction and Target Serum Urate Level: A Longitudinal Study of Annual Medical Examination
Authors: Fukui Sho , Okada Masato , Shinozaki Tomohiro , Suzuki Takahiro , Nakai Takehiro , Ozawa Hiroki , Tamaki Hiromichi , Kishimoto Mitsumasa , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Matsuda Takeaki , Marrugo Javier , Tedeschi Sara K. , Choi Hyon K. , Solomon Daniel H. 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveOur objective was to evaluate associations of weight reduction with serum urate (SU) changes and achieving an SU level <6 mg/dL in the real‐world setting, outside of specific weight reduction interventions.MethodsWe analyzed systematically collected data of annual medical examination participants from October 2012 to October 2022. Exposure was weight change (increase or decrease) between two consecutive visits, categorized as minimal (≤0.9 kg, reference), small (1.0–4.9 kg), moderate (5.0–9.9 kg), and large (≥10 kg). Outcomes included SU changes between two consecutive visits and achieving an SU level <6 mg/dL in participants with hyperuricemia (SU level ≥7 mg/dL at the previous visit).ResultsWe identified 58,630 eligible participants (median age 46 years, 51.3% female, 19.4% with overweight, median SU level 5.3 mg/dL, and 5.6% with a history of gout and/or hyperuricemia) with 336,814 visits over a median of 5.3 years. After adjustment for relevant covariates, linear general estimating equations estimated mean SU changes based on observed weight reductions (vs minimal changes) were as follows: small, −0.10 mg/dL (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.10 to −0.09 mg/dL); moderate, −0.34 mg/dL (95% CI −0.36 to −0.32 mg/dL); and large, −0.64 (95% CI −0.70 to −0.58 mg/dL). In participants with hyperuricemia, adjusted relative risks for achieving an SU level <6 mg/dL by modified Poisson regression were 1.25 (95% CI 1.15–1.37) in small weight reductions, 2.82 (95% CI 2.43–3.27) in moderate weight reductions, and 5.27 (95% CI 4.15–6.70) in large weight reductions, with corresponding numbers needed to treat of 61.1 for small weight reductions, 8.5 for moderate weight reductions, and 3.6 for large weight reductions.ConclusionSmall weight reductions were associated with only small SU changes. Some participants with hyperuricemia can achieve the target SU level with moderate to large weight reductions.image
Li Decorated Graphdiyne Nanosheets: A Theoretical Study for an Electrode Material for Nonaqueous Lithium Batteries
Authors: Jiménez M. J. , Juan J. , Sandoval M.S. , Bechthold P. , Jasen P. V. , González E. A. , Juan A. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractIn this work, Density Functional Theory (DFT) is used to study pristine and defective GDY. We investigate the effect of Li atom adsorption on the electronic and structural properties of this 2D material. In both cases, the Li atom is located at the corner of the triangular‐like pore (H1), but with a slight shift for the defective system. In the perfect system, the Li−C bond distances range from 2.289 Å to 2.461 Å, while in the defective case, they range from 2.237 Å to 3.184 Å. In the perfect case, the GDY−Li system becomes metallic and the Li 2 s states are stabilized. Charge transfer to the surfaces occurs near the vicinity of the Li atom. The C vacancy generates new C=C bonds similar to double bonds, enhancing the interaction with Li through strong conjugation. After Li adsorption, the sum of bond order for all the C atoms increases in both structures, from 0.4 % to 6 %. The Li storage capacity without significant restructuring is six Li atoms. When the atom concentration increases, the OCV values for Li decrease from 0.93 V to 0.23 V. For defective GDY, the specific capacity is 788 mAhg−1, which is slightly higher than for pristine case.
Using active learning methodologies to teach sequence analysis and molecular phylogeny
Authors: Ortiz Martín Inmaculada , Del Espino Pérez Ángel , García Luque Estefanía , Viguera Mínguez Enrique 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe great development of high‐throughput molecular biology techniques and the consequent generation of massive data have made Bioinformatics essential for undergraduate Bioscience students. The importance of this scientific discipline is evidenced by the huge number of specialized publications, tools, and databases available. Training in Bioinformatics equips undergraduates with transferable skills that can be applied in all fields of Biology, such as programming abilities, data analysis, database management, biological knowledge, statistics, problem solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Over the past decade, there has been a notable increase in the number of higher education institutions worldwide that have adopted a competency‐based curricula. This approach places a significant emphasis on the actions and skills that students are expected to develop, rather than merely focusing on the information, they are required to memorize. In this educational context, the use of active learning strategies has been demonstrated to enhance student comprehension and competency development. This paper describes the implementation of an active learning approach in a hands‐on lesson performed by undergraduate students of Biology at the University of Malaga (Spain). Its main objective is to introduce students to molecular databases and information search systems on genes, proteins, and phylogeny. This is achieved within the framework of a smart campus, which integrates technological and sustainable resources to promote a positive and productive learning environment for the university community. This work presents the content and procedure of this practical activity, as well as the evaluation method and the results of a student survey to assess their opinions.
miR‐4448/Girdin/Akt/AMPK axis inhibits EZH2‐mediated EMT and tumorigenesis in small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Koyama Nobuyuki , Ishikawa Yuichi , Ohta Hiromitsu , Aoki Takuya , Kyoyama Hiroyuki , Aoshiba Kazutetsu , Uematsu Kazutsugu 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundSmall‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) shows high enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) expressions. EZH2‐mediated epigenetics promote epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), enhancing invasive and metastatic potential in malignancies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small noncoding RNAs, modulate EMT, determining tumor phenotypes. However, the association between miRNAs and EZH2 in SCLC remains to be clarified—we aimed to identify a novel tumorigenic mechanism through miRNAs, EZH2, and EMT in SCLC, leading to future therapeutic applications.MethodsWe analyzed EZH2 and E‐cadherin expressions in lung cancer cell lines and tumor tissues from 34 SCLC patients and confirmed EZH2 siRNA‐mediated EMT inhibition. miRNA expression profiles were compared between EZH2 knockdown SCLC cells and negative control SCLC cells using miRNA array. We identified a target miRNA of EZH2 showing expressional differences in EZH2‐knockdown cells and analyzed the impact of the miRNA on EZH2‐mediated EMT and tumorigenesis.ResultsAll SCLC cells showed increased EZH2 and decreased E‐cadherin expressions. SCLC tissues had higher EZH2 and lower E‐cadherin expressions than other lung cancer tissues. miRNA array revealed that miR‐4448 expression increased in EZH2‐knockdown SCLC cells. miR‐4448 overexpression reduced tumor cell growth and prevented EMT. miR‐4448 bound to the 3′UTR of the girdin gene and suppressed its expression, thereby decreasing Akt phosphorylation at Ser473. Attenuated Akt phosphorylation resulted in AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation at Thr172 and 183, enhancing EZH2 phosphorylation at Thr311.ConclusionSCLC characterized high EZH2 expression and promoted EMT, compared with non‐small cell lung cancer. miR‐4448 inhibited Girdin expression, reducing Akt phosphorylation, and enhancing AMPK and EZH2 phosphorylation. Eventually, miR‐4448 prevented EZH2‐mediated EMT and tumorigenesis by modulating the Girdin/Akt/AMPK axis in SCLC. miR‐4448 might be a potential SCLC inhibitor.
The expression and role of SUZ12 in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Xingsheng , Hu Chunhong , Zhong Ping 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundSUZ12 is one of the core members of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), but its expression and role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are unclear. We aimed to explore the expression, prognosis, biological functions and roles of SUZ12 in LUAD.MethodsThe expression of SUZ12 was detected by immunohistochemical staining, qRT‐PCR, and western blotting in LUAD tissues and cells. The biological functions and molecular mechanisms of SUZ12 were characterized by a range of in vitro and in vivo experiments.ResultsSUZ12 was overexpressed in LUAD tissues, and high SUZ12 expression was correlated with worse clinicopathological features and a poorer prognosis. Knockdown of SUZ12 significantly inhibited cell growth, colony formation, invasion, and migration, and induced apoptosis and G1/S phase arrest, while overexpression of SUZ12 had the opposite effects. Knockdown of SUZ12 decreased the tumorigenic capacity of A549 cells in vivo. The expression of key signaling molecules related to the cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, and immunity were altered by the knockdown or overexpression of SUZ12. SUZ12 can directly bind to the Bax promoter region, EZH2 and H3K27me3 levels dependents on SUZ12. The expression levels of SUZ12 and Bax were negatively correlated in LUAD tissues.ConclusionsSUZ12 is a new oncogene related to the poor prognosis of LUAD. SUZ12 regulates LUAD progression by regulating the expression of related signaling molecules, and as a part of the PRC2 complex, it may bind to the Bax promoter to silence Bax expression.
Prevalence and Description of High‐Grade Intraepithelial Lesions of Cervical Mucosa Cells in a Screening Programme for Cervical Cancer in Isère, France
Authors: Balamou Christian , Zysman Karine , Olicard Cécile , Garnier Anne , Seigneurin Arnaud 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveThis study aims to analyse high‐grade intraepithelial lesions (LIEHG) observed in a screening programme from 2010 to 2018 to more accurately describe them and formulate recommendations for best practices in the context of screening evolution following the introduction of an HPV test in primary cervical cancer screening in 2020.MethodsThis study included 305,940 asymptomatic women aged 25–65 years. The eligible population was invited to undergo a screening cervico‐uterine‐smear every 3 years. If this smear was normal, the woman received a new invitation. In the case of a positive screen, the patient underwent further diagnostic procedures, such as colposcopy and biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Only those diagnosed with LIEHG and above proceeded to treatment. The diagnoses associated with LIEHG were those related to the WHO Classification of tumours of the uterine cervix.ResultsPositive smears led to the diagnosis of 3230 LIEHG. The prevalence of LIEHG in the screened population was 0.4%. The LIEHG distribution varied significantly according to the age of the women. The probability of diagnosing LIEHG in young women was 12.2% at 25–29 years. This probability decreased by half after 50 years. We observed that the type of smear was significantly associated with LIEHG detection. The positive predictive value for diagnosing LIEHG was 70.3% for high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) smears and 35.1% for atypical squamous cells cannot exclude HSIL (ASC‐H) smears.ConclusionIn the study population, the prevalence of LIEHG was high in women under 35 years. Low‐grade smears were correlated with the risk of LIEHG and should prompt screening facilities to allocate resources to ensure active follow‐up of LSIL and ASC‐US smears. Adherence to cytological screening recommendations was associated with a reduced risk of LIEHG in multivariate analysis.
Prognostic Role of Hemoglobin Combined With Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index in Patients With Vater Ampulla Carcinoma Undergoing Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Ying Jieping , Zhu Suwen , Cheng Yingchun , Wang Bei , Wang Yueqin 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesThe purpose of this investigation was to assess the prognostic importance of the combination of preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) levels and Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) in forecasting postoperative survival outcomes for patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) due to Vater ampulla carcinoma (VPC).MethodsThe GNRI nutritional screening was conducted for all patients, and patient outcomes, including overall survival (OS), were subsequently monitored. An H‐ GNRI scoring system was established using the optimal critical values of 125.5 g/L for Hb and 91.72 for GNRI, as determined by X‐tile software. According to the H‐GNRI score, the patients were categorized into three groups, namely low H‐GNRI group (H‐GNRI score = 0, n = 47) with Hb < 125.5 g/L and GNRI < 91.72; medium H‐GNRI group (H‐GNRI score = 1, n = 77) with Hb < 125.5 g/L and GNRI ≥ 91.72, or Hb ≥ 125.5 g/L and GNR < 91.72; and high H‐GNRI group (H‐GNRI score = 2, n = 51) with Hb ≥ 125.5 g/L and GNRI ≥ 91.72. The Kaplan–Meier analysis and log‐rank tests were employed to evaluate the OS rate and compare survival disparities among various groups. Additionally, both univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted utilizing the Cox regression model, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Finally, to evaluate the predictive effectiveness of Hb, GNRI, and H‐GNRI, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed to compare the area under curve (AUC) values.ResultsThe OS rate was higher in patients with high Hb levels (≥ 125.5 g/L) compared to those with low Hb levels (< 125.5 g/L). Likewise, patients in the high GNRI group (≥ 91.72) exhibited significantly superior OS compared to those in the low GNRI group (< 91.72). Compared with both the medium and low H‐GNRI groups, the high H‐GNRI group demonstrated a notably higher OS rate. The T stage (HR = 2.523, 95% CI: 1.694–3.757, p < 0.001), N stage (HR = 2.018, 95% CI: 1.255–3.246, p = 0.004), and the H‐GNRI score (H‐GNRI score of 2 used as the baseline; H‐GNRI score of 0: HR = 2.569, 95% CI: 1.499–4.402, p < 0.001; H‐GNRI score of 1: HR = 1.835, 95% CI: 1.118–3.014, p = 0.016), after adjusting for gender, were determined to be independent significant predictors affecting the OS of patients with VPC. The AUC of H‐GNRI was 0.677, exceeding that of Hb levels (0.631) and GNRI (0.615).ConclusionsThe combination of preoperative Hb levels and GNRI demonstrates superior predictive efficacy for VPC patients undergoing PD, compared with either Hb levels or GNRI score alone. Therefore, the H‐GNRI score can be utilized to promptly identify high‐risk patients, establish comprehensive nutritional pre‐rehabilitation plans through interdisciplinary collaboration, and inform decisions regarding additional adjunctive therapies.
To understand the experiences of autistic counsellors: A United Kingdom phenomenological study
Authors: Taylor Jade Rita , Sims Michael 
Published: October 2024

AbstractAimThe study was designed to explore the experiences of autistic counsellors living and working in the United Kingdom (UK). The research question was split into four aims: exploring presenting differences, strategies and modalities preferences, challenges and barriers, and training and support needs.MethodSeven autistic counsellors, either self‐identified or diagnosed, completed semi‐structured questionnaires. Patterns and themes were then extracted from the data using a thematic analysis procedure.FindingsThe data analysis identified four themes: the practical differences of working as an autistic counsellor, working with a similar neurotype, understanding and accommodation within the counselling profession, and representation.ConclusionParticipants felt that being autistic brings unique strengths to the counselling process, and it was identified that while they have been trained to work with allistic (non‐autistic) clients, they found strength in supporting and being supported by those of a similar neurotype. Participants challenged the deficit depiction of autism and, subsequently, the lack of recognition, understanding, accommodation and representation of autistic counsellors within the profession. The participants called for a change in training, within professional bodies, counselling organisations, workplaces and colleagues.RecommendationsCounselling training needs to include autistic trainers, represent and accommodate autistic trainees, as well as support the needs of autistic clients.Counselling bodies need to create safe spaces for autistic counsellors, including the ability to advertise within directories and support the endorsement of neurological differences as strengths. These spaces need to challenge the archaic beliefs around autism through lived experience and the hiring of autistic professionals. Inclusivity should be encouraged within organisations and workplaces, consequently filtering to allistic colleagues.
LC‐HRMS Profiling of Phytochemicals with Assessment of Antioxidant, Anticholinesterase, and Antimicrobial Potentials of Astragalus Brachystachys DC
Authors: Ersoy Ezgi , Boga Mehmet , Kaplan Alevcan , Mataraci Kara Emel , Eroglu Ozkan Esra , Demirci Kayiran Serpil 
Published: October 2024

AbstractAstragalus species are ubiquitous in the pharmacopeia of numerous countries, signifying their widespread medicinal applications. Türkiye is esteemed as one of the principal epicenters of diversity for this genus with 483 taxa, and many of these plants have been traditionally utilized for diseases including coughing, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and aches. Although there is a considerable body of chemical and biological research available on several Astragalus species, studies focusing on Astragalus brachystachys DC are exceedingly rare. In this context, This study provides the first comprehensive report on this medicinal plant the chemical constituents and biological activities of an important medicinal plant, Astragalus brachystachys DC. The aerial part samples were collected from Adana, Türkiye, and an ethanol extract was prepared with these parts. The secondary metabolites of the extract were determined by an LC‐HRMS analysis. The LC‐HRMS analysis showed the presence of 39 different constituents, hyperoside (303.419±10.50 μg/g extract), p‐coumaric acid (256.975±8.51 μg/g extract), and rutin (72.684±2.23 μg/g extract) were determined as major compounds in the aerial parts ethanol extract. Attributed to its high total phenolic (58.53±1.30 μg PEs/mg extract) and total flavonoid content (29.98±0.83 μg QEs/mg extract), the extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity according to three different assays namely DPPH free (IC50: 33.08±0.61 μg/mL), and ABTS cation radical scavenging (IC50: 15.39±0.72 μg/mL) and CUPRAC activity (A0.5: 36.25±0.28 μg/mL) methods. In vitro assays showed that cholinesterase inhibitory activity results were found to be exceptional with 85.95±0.52 % inhibition on acetylcholinesterase and 66.32±1.33 % inhibition on butyrylcholinesterase at 200 μg/mL. Regarding antimicrobial properties, Astragalus brachystachys DC extract was found to be effective against Enterococcus faecalis with a MIC value of 39.06 μg/mL.
Novel Tricyclo[4.2.1]Nonane and Bicyclo[2.2.1]Heptane Derivatives: Synthesis, in Vitro Biological Activities and in Silico Studies
Authors: Kececi Sarıkaya Meryem , Sahin Yaglioglu Ayse , Ceylan Mustafa , Yırtıcı Ümit 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe target benzothiazole derivatives (8a‐g) were synthesized starting from norbornene. The addition of dichloroketene to norbornene followed by the reduction of chlorine atoms were synthesized tricyclo[4.2.1.02,5]non‐7‐en‐3‐one (4). The condensation of benzaldehyde derivatives with compound 4 were obtained chalcone analogs (6a‐g). Finally, benzothiazole derivatives (8a‐g) were obtained by the reaction of the chalcone analogs with 2‐aminobenzothiol in an acidic medium. The antiproliferative activities of compounds 6a‐g and 8a‐g were determined against C6 (rat brain tumor) and HeLa (human cervical carcinoma) cell lines using a BrdU cell proliferation ELISA assay with 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) as a standard. In both series, when compared with 5‐FU (IC50=3.8 μM for C6 and 16.33 μM for HeLa), the most active compounds against C6 cells were 6a and 8g with IC50 values of 14.13 μM and 29.99 μM, respectively. With this, 6a, 6e, 6f, and 8b were the most active compounds against HeLa cells with IC50 values of 0.8, 1.21, 19.33 and 18.13 μM, respectively. Additionally, the SwissADME online web tool was used to predict the physicochemical and ADME properties of the tested compounds. The results showed that all compounds possess promising predicted physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties and comply with Lipinski's rule of 5, indicating that they are predicted to be orally bioavailable that they possess a predicted bioavailability score of 0.55. Furthermore, in the SwissADME Boiled‐Egg chart, all compounds showed high predicted GIT absorption, while compounds 6a‐g showed blood‐brain barrier (BBB) permeation, and compounds 8a‐g did not. Moreover, none of the compounds was (P‐gp) substrates. This study investigated the potential interactions between the antiapoptotic proteins Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xl, Bcl‐w, Brag‐1, Bfl‐1, and Mcl‐1 and compounds 6a, 8b, and 8g through molecular docking studies. The findings suggest that these compounds may effectively inhibit antiapoptotic proteins, as evidenced by significant hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions, particularly with Bcl‐xl.
Formulation and Release of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Using a Supramolecular Self‐Healing Two‐Component Gel
Authors: El‐Qarra Lamisse H. , Cosottini Niccolò , Tangsombun Chayanan , Smith David K. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractA two‐component low‐molecular‐weight gelator (LMWG) formed from a modified amino acid and an aldehyde was formulated with active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Basic APIs (propranolol, atropine) can be mixed with the LMWG prior to gel assembly while acidic APIs (naproxen, rosuvastatin) inhibit assembly by disrupting the LMWG imine bond and were loaded by diffusion after gel assembly. For diffusion‐loaded gels, the API in the liquid‐like phase was rapidly released, with the remainder, interacting with gel fibres, retained in the gel. Rosuvastatin release was particularly low with Saturation Transfer Difference (STD) NMR indicating interactions between the aromatic ring and the self‐assembled gel network. Propranolol also interacted with the gel via its aromatic unit, and its release led to gel erosion. Using agarose as a polymer gelator additive reinforced the gel, restricting erosion. In contrast, atropine was readily released over a period of hours ‐ it is primarily in the liquid‐like phase with STD NMR indicating no interactions with the gel network. The atropine‐loaded gel retained its thixotropic properties. Overall, APIs must be carefully chosen to optimise formulation/release. Of the APIs investigated, atropine has most potential for further development. Atropine has applications in treating myopia, and our results suggest potential ophthalmic applications of supramolecular gels.