bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Sperm‐Associated Antigen 11A (Spag11a) Knockout Mice Display Sub‐Fertility and Perturbations in the Sperm Proteome
Authors: Sangeeta Kumari , Aisha Jamil , Yenugu Suresh 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTSpermatogenesis and sperm maturation that occur in the testis and epididymis respectively are crucial for fertility. Factors secreted by the testicular and epididymal epithelial cells govern the processes of gametogenesis and maturation. Proteins encoded by the sperm‐associated antigen 11a (Spag11a) gene are implicated as having a possible role in sperm maturation. However, studies that demonstrate their definite role in fertility and sperm function using knockout models have not yet reported. In this study, Spag11a knockout mice were generated, genotyped and the reproductive parameters (fecundity, sperm count, capacitation, and acrosome reaction) and sperm proteome were determined. Litter size and sperm count were decreased in the Spag11a knockout mice when compared to the wild‐type controls. Spermatozoa from the knockout mice were able to undergo capacitation. However, acrosome reaction did not occur in sperm obtained from knockout mice. Structural abnormalities in the head and tail structures were evident in the spermatozoa of knockout mice. Perturbations in the expression of sperm proteins that are involved in gametogenesis were evident. The subfertility observed in Spag11a knockout mice could be a manifestation of lower sperm count, impaired acrosome reactions, and disturbances in the sperm proteome. The results of this study lend further support to the role of Spag11a gene in male gamete function.
Mechanistic Perspective on Oxygen Activation Chemistry by Flavoenzymes
Authors: Zhang Qiaoyu , Wang Binju 
Published: October 2024

AbstractFlavin‐dependent enzymes catalyze a panoply of chemical transformations essential for living organisms. Through oxygen activation, flavoenzymes could generate diverse flavin‐oxygen species that mediate numerous redox and non‐redox transformations. In this review, we highlight the extensive oxygen activation chemistry at two sites of the flavin cofactor: C4a and N5 sites. Oxygen activation at the C4a site generates flavin‐C4aOO(H) species for various monooxygenation reactions, while activation at the N5 site produces negatively charged flavin‐N5OOH species, which act as highly reactive nucleophiles or bases. The selective oxygen activation at either the C4a or N5 site depends on the nature of substrates and is controlled by the active site architecture. These insights have expanded our understanding of oxygen activation chemistry in flavoenzymes and will serve as a foundation for future efforts in enzyme engineering and redesign.
A Novel Concept for Cleavable Linkers Applicable to Conjugation Chemistry – Design, Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Majumder Utpal , Zhu Xiaojie , Custar Daniel , Li Danyang , Fang Hui , McGonigle Sharon , Albone Earl , Cheng Xin , Lai Weidong , Amy Siu Y. , Bresciano Karen , Hart Andrew , Postema Maarten 
Published: October 2024

AbstractLinkers with disulfide bonds are the only cleavable linkers that utilize physiological thiol gradients as a trigger to initiate the intracellular drug release cascade. Herein, we present a novel concept exploiting the thiol gradient phenomena to design a new class of cleavable linker with no disulfide bond. To support the concept, an electron‐deficient sulfonamide‐based cleavable linker amenable to conjugation of drug molecules with targeting agents, was developed. Modulating the electron‐withdrawing nature of the aryl sulfonamide was critical to the balance between the stability and drug release. Favorable stability and payload release in human serum under physiologically relevant thiol concentrations was demonstrated with two potent cytotoxics. Intracellular payload release was further validated in cell‐based assay in context of antibody‐drug conjugate generated from monoclonal antibody and sulfonamide containing linker. To support the proposed release mechanism, possible downstream by‐products formed from the drug‐linker adduct were characterized.
Efficacy and safety of levosimendan in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention: The LEVOCEST trial
Authors: Bosa Ojeda Francisco , Méndez Vargas Corabel , Lacalzada Almeida Juan , Izquierdo Gómez María M. , Jiménez Sosa Alejandro , Rodríguez Jiménez Consuelo , Sánchez‐Grande Flecha Alejandro , Bosa Santana Marta , Yanes Bowden Geoffrey 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundPrimary angioplasty is the standard procedure for patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, myocardial reperfusion results in additional cell damage. Levosimendan, due to its pleiotropic effects, may be a therapeutic alternative to prevent this damage. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether this drug can reduce infarct size in patients with STEMI.MethodsPatients were randomized to receive a 24‐h infusion of either levosimendan (0.1 μg/kg/min) or placebo after the primary angioplasty. The main objective was to assess the size of the infarct by cardiac resonance at 30 days and 6 months after the event. Other variables such as left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and adverse ventricular remodeling (AVR) were assessed by speckle‐tracking echocardiography and magnetic resonance. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were also collected.Results157 patients were analysed (levosimendan, n = 79; placebo, n = 78). We found that after 6 months, patients treated with levosimendan had a greater reduction in infarct size (13.19% ± 9.5% vs.11.79% ± 9%, p = 0.001), compared with those in the placebo group (13.35% ± 7.1% vs. 13.43% ± 7.8%, p = 0.38). There were no significant differences in MACE between both groups.ConclusionsLevosimendan is a safe and effective therapeutic option for reducing infarct size in patients with STEMI.
Early‐onset familial hypercholesterolemia: A case of extensive xanthomas and premature coronary artery disease
Authors: Kalsi Harsimran , Singla Ankur , Kaur Sukhjot , Verma Amogh , Woldehana Nathnael Abera , Rustagi Sarvesh , Singh Mahendra Pratap 
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical MessageEarly recognition and management of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are crucial, especially in patients with extensive xanthomas and premature coronary artery disease. Prompt diagnosis and aggressive lipid‐lowering therapy can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality rates. Careful clinical assessment in resource‐limited settings is essential for optimal outcomes.AbstractFamilial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder that causes chronically elevated levels of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Based on LDL levels, FH can be heterozygous or homozygous, further established through clinical features, laboratory findings, and genetic analysis. Elevated cholesterol levels cause atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and sudden death. Xanthomas are a clinical manifestation of FH that reveal the underlying systemic genetic disease. We present the case of a 47‐year‐old male with triple vessel coronary artery disease and widespread xanthomas, diagnosed with homozygous FH based on “The Dutch Lipid Clinic Network Diagnostic Criteria for Familial Hypercholesterolemia.” Lifelong therapy with lipid‐lowering medications and lifestyle changes is necessary in such cases.
Hydrogen‐assisted Synthesis of Defective Triazine/heptazine Homostructured Nanosheets for Efficient CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Zhang Wenxuan , Wang Jiangpeng , Hu Yingmo , Yu Xuelian , An Xiaoqiang 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHomostructure construction has been proven to be an effective method for boosting the photocatalytic activity of polymeric carbon nitride. However, the contribution of the intrinsic activity of molecular fragments in the catalytic performance of homostructured carbon nitride is yet to be explored. In this paper, a facile hydrogen‐assisted strategy was used to synthesize triazine/heptazine intermolecular homojunctions (g‐C3N4(MU−H)) with an ultrathin and defective structure, via the co‐pyrolysis of melamine and urea precursors. Experimental characterizations and theoretical calculations indicated the copolymerization of triazine‐ and heptazine‐based carbon nitride generated a homostructured interface with a large build‐in electric field for efficient separation of photogenerated carriers. Owing to the synergestic effect between the homostructured interface and nitrogen vacancies, as‐synethesized g‐C3N4(MU−H) exhibited an outstanding activity for photocatalytic CO2 reduction, with 14.45 μmol h−1 CO yield, which was 23.5 and 3.64 times higher than those of bulk g‐C3N4 and g‐C3N4(M−H) synthesized from a single precursor, respectively. In this study, We provided a novel route for optimizing the charge separation efficiency of CO2 photoreduction catalysts by constructing intramolecular homojunction.
Comparison of Microcapillary Blood Sampling Devices for Use in Anti‐Doping
Authors: Lewis Laura , Smith Monika , Boutard Kristin , Fedoruk Matthew , Miller Geoff 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBlood collection is an important facet of anti‐doping testing, forming the basis of the hematological module of the athlete biological passport (ABP). Presently, whole blood is collected via venepucture under standardized conditions, in accordance with the World Anti‐doping Agency's International Standard for Testing and Investigations (ISTI). Advances in capillary whole blood collection technology now afford the ability to collect microvolumetric capillary whole blood from the upper arm (or other suitable vascular location such as the abdomen) that is “needle‐free” and virtually painless. Previous work has demonstrated the suitability and feasibility of capillary whole blood compared with venous using the Tasso+ device. Recently, other microcapillary devices have received FDA approval increasing the options available to the anti‐doping community. The present study extends previous work, by collecting microliter capillary whole blood samples via two different FDA approved devices (RedDrop and the Tasso+ device) to compare with venous blood collected simultaneously. Ten participants provided three matched blood samples (2× capillary and 1× venous) in accordance with WADA ABP guidelines for blood sample collection, for a total of 30 samples. Capillary samples from both devices showed excellent laboratory agreement with venous blood for all CBC parameters, with the exception of platelets. Excellent laboratory agreement was also observed between the two microcapillary collection devices. Irrespective of the device, microcapillary blood collection provides a valid alternative to venous blood collection for ABP purposes.
Integrating Population Genetics With Long‐Term Environmental Monitoring to Evaluate and Guide Vernal Pool Creation for Amphibian Conservation
Authors: Winters Declan M. , Wilson Emily , Coster Stephanie S. , Rothenberger Megan B. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTThe decline of biodiversity, particularly among amphibians, is strongly associated with habitat loss and fragmentation. Vernal pools are a critical ecosystem for many pool‐breeding amphibians, but they are often overlooked in wetland protection guidelines. Mitigation efforts include vernal pool creation and restoration, but these efforts have varying success in replacing lost functions. This study investigates the success of created vernal pools through long‐term environmental monitoring of wood frogs and spotted salamanders (2014–2023) and integrates population genetics to assess the local population health of the wood frog. First, we monitored and compared environmental parameters and reproductive success of indicator species between natural and created pools in a Pennsylvania state park. We then used microsatellite loci to assess within‐ and between‐pool measures of genetic diversity, population structuring, and gene flow for wood frogs. We found two carefully designed created pools positively contributed to local amphibian population persistence by maintaining similar measures of genetic diversity as compared to natural pools. On the other hand, one poorly created pool was genetically distinct and acted as a population sink. Although our findings offer valuable insights, they are based on a limited sample and may not fully represent the broader landscape. However, by integrating genetic information into long‐term monitoring datasets, our interdisciplinary approach enhances our understanding of amphibian population dynamics in vernal pool ecosystems. Our findings imply that the most important factors for restoration practitioners to consider when creating or restoring vernal pools are hydroperiod (12–35 weeks), volume (> 50 m3), depth (≥ 30 cm), and surrounding forest land cover (> 60%). These variables are better predictors of indicator species success than pool type (i.e., natural or created). Ultimately, this study emphasizes the need to accompany restoration efforts with long‐term monitoring programs that can be used to make adaptive management decisions in an era of extreme environmental change.
Quality Diagnosis for Rocket Body Structure Manufacturing Process Based on Product Quality DNA
Authors: Jiayu Yao , Haijiang Liu 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTIn the current multivariety and small‐batch production mode, it is difficult to fully reflect the evolution law of the sampling population due to incomplete sample information in the manufacturing of the rocket body structure. By referring to the principle of biological DNA, a knowledge‐based quality diagnosis strategy is adopted, and a quality diagnosis method for the rocket body structure manufacturing process based on product quality DNA is proposed in this paper. The accumulated experience or knowledge in the past is stored in the product quality DNA knowledge base in the form of cases. Through knowledge retrieval, historical cases with the highest similarity to the product quality DNA to be diagnosed are found, and reasonable control and rectification schemes are provided for the quality problems in the production process, so as to avoid the same quality problems in the future. The feasibility of the method is verified by two case studies of two welds. The results show that the method can effectively and accurately diagnose weld quality.
Utilization of waste from paper industry as a heterogeneous base catalyst for the synthesis of biodiesel
Authors: Ahmed Sultana Parveen , Kataky Sudhamoyee , Dutta Riku , Thakur Ashim Jyoti , Dolui Swapan Kumar 
Published: October 2024

AbstractTo meet the pressing demand for alternative biofuel in the contemporary world, the production cost of biodiesel has to be decreased. Hence, this work addresses the usage of CaCO3‐rich industrial waste produced in a local paper industry in Assam, India for the synthesis of a heterogeneous catalyst for biodiesel synthesis. The collected lime sludge waste was subjected to calcination at 800°C for 3 h producing a CaO‐rich catalyst which was then employed in the transesterification of cottonseed oil. The optimized reaction conditions obtained were 5 wt% catalyst concentration, oil to methanol molar ratio of 1:12 at 65°C temperature, and 3 h of reaction time. The catalyst's reusability was evaluated up to four cycles. Besides, the prepared catalyst has been characterized using Fourier transfer infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X‐ray Diffraction (p‐XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) techniques and its basicity was measured using Hammett indicators. Moreover, the biodiesel obtained was characterized with 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C‐NMR, Gas Chromatography‐ Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS), and FTIR techniques. A biodiesel yield of 98.03% was achieved and the quality of biodiesel formed during the transesterification of CSO also conforms to EN 14214 and ASTM D 6751 standards. Thus, our study highlights the sustainability and the potential for future industrial application of paper industrial waste in the production of biodiesel.
Transgender and gender‐diverse identity in patients with eating disorders: A national cross‐sectional study
Authors: Rasmussen Sofie M. , Clausen Loa , Højgaard Astrid D. , Pop Maria L. , Kjeldsen Mikkel K. , Egedal Jeanie M. , Telléus Gry Kjærsdam 
Published: October 2024

AbstractObjectiveThis national study aimed to estimate the prevalence of the transgender and gender‐diverse identity and to assess the level of gender congruence, body dissatisfaction and quality of life among patients with eating disorders in Denmark.MethodPatients with eating disorders were compared to a matched non‐clinical comparison group. The survey included the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire and assessment of body dissatisfaction, gender congruence and quality of life.ResultsIn total 568 patients with eating disorders and 538 individuals from the non‐clinical comparison group were included. The prevalence of individuals identifying as transgender or gender‐diverse was 4.50% (n = 20) among patients with eating disorders, and 6.23% (n = 23) in the non‐clinical comparison group (p‐value = 0.276). The transgender and gender‐diverse individuals with eating disorders showed no statistically significant differences in eating disorder symptomatology compared to the cisgender individuals with eating disorders; however, they reported significantly more body dissatisfaction, less gender congruence and lower quality of life.ConclusionThe prevalence of transgender and gender‐diverse individuals did not differ between patients with eating disorders and the non‐clinical comparison group; however, transgender and gender‐diverse individuals with eating disorders may be characterised by pronounced body dissatisfaction and low quality of life.
Evaluating the Regional and Demographic Variations in Dementia‐Related Mortality Trends in the United States: 1999 to 2020
Authors: Shoaib Muhammad Mukarram , Hayat Malik Saad , Nadeem Zain Ali , Shoaib Muhammad Mohtasham , Sohail Sara , Mirza Abdullah Tahir , Shahid Fatima 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionDementia, a term for a range of cognitive impairments impacting memory, thinking, and social abilities, represents a formidable challenge to healthcare systems worldwide. Analysing the temporal trends in dementia‐related mortality among individuals, identifying the populations at high risk, and guiding the implementation of tailored interventions to address the escalating effects of dementia on public health.MethodsData from CDC WONDER database was examined from 1999 to 2020 for the four causes of dementia mortality: unspecified dementia (F03), Alzheimer's disease (G30), vascular dementia (F01), and other degenerative diseases of nervous system not elsewhere classified (G31). Age‐adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 persons and annual percent change (APC) were calculated and stratified by geographic region, year, age groups, sex, and race/ethnicity.ResultsA total of 4,077,973 reported deaths were related to dementia from 1999 to 2020 in the United States. The greatest proportion of deaths was associated with Alzheimer's disease (45.9%), followed by unspecified dementia (43.8%). Very low proportion of deaths were associated with vascular dementia (4.9%) or other neurodegenerative diseases (5.3%). The AAMR increased in two distinct periods: a steep incline from 1999 to 2010 (APC: 6.95, 95% CI: 6.00–7.90), followed by a modest incline till 2020 (APC: 1.41, 95% CI: 0.80–2.04). Overall, females had a higher AAMR than males. AAMRs were highest among NH Whites patients and lowest in NH Asians or Pacific Islanders. A significant geographical difference was also observed among different US census regions. Nearly equal AAMRs were seen in non‐metropolitan areas and metropolitan areas. States with AAMRs in the top 90th percentile included South Carolina, North Carolina, Maine, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama while states with AAMRs in the bottom 10th percentile included South Dakota, Florida, Hawaii, New Jersey, District of Columbia, and New York (33.1). Individuals aged above 85 had the highest AAMRs. Most deaths occurred in nursing homes and least in hospice facilities.ConclusionThe dementia related deaths are continuously increasing. Highest AAMRs were observed among the NH White people, females, and in the southern areas of the United States. People aged 85+ were most affected. To stop the rising death rates, targeted interventions and awareness are required for both prevention and treatment of dementia.
Applying global lessons from limerick: Insights for Taiwan's drug policy development
Authors: Wu Yu‐Chieh , Wei Lien‐Chung 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis letter responds to Duopah et al.'s study on illicit drug use in Limerick City, drawing parallels with Taiwan's experiences in drug policy development and highlighting lessons from other countries with advanced harm reduction policies, including Portugal and Switzerland. The application of Kingdon's multiple streams model is used to analyse cross‐cultural policy development. Taiwan's shift from punitive to health‐oriented strategies, such as supervised injection facilities and rehabilitation programs, is explored. This letter emphasises the challenges of stakeholder engagement, particularly in integrating the perspectives of people who use drugs, and discusses the broader implications for international policy adaptation, especially in countries with similar health system challenges. Taiwan's development of multi‐tiered interventions and integrated care models serves as an example of evidence‐based policymaking. These insights highlight the potential for global cross‐cultural learning in drug policy development.
Mammographic density and breast cancer risk among Black American women
Authors: Holder Etienne X. , Bigham Zahna , Nelson Kerrie P. , Barnard Mollie E. , Palmer Julie R. , Bertrand Kimberly A. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHigh mammographic density is a well‐established risk factor for breast cancer; however, data from Black women are limited. It is largely unknown how mammographic density is associated with breast cancer subtypes among Black women. We examined the association between percent mammographic density (PMD) and breast cancer risk among participants in the Black Women's Health Study. Digital screening mammograms were available for 363 cases and 5541 non‐cases. Cumulus software was used to assess PMD. We used inverse probability of sampling weights and Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for age and body mass index, to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) overall and by age at mammography and estrogen receptor (ER) status of the breast tumors. Multivariable models included additional breast cancer risk factors. Tests of statistical significance were 2‐sided. In simple models, women in the highest quartile of PMD had 53% increased odds of breast cancer compared to those in the lowest quartile (HR 1.53; 95% CI: 1.11, 2.11). HRs were 1.37 (95% CI: 0.83, 2.24) among women <55 years of age and 1.68 (95% CI: 1.10, 2.56) among women aged ≥55 years. HRs were 1.49 (95% CI: 1.02, 2.16) for ER+ cancer and 1.45 (95% CI: 0.73, 2.87) for ER– cancer. Associations were largely unchanged in multivariable models. In this study of U.S. Black women, higher PMD was associated with ER+ and ER– breast cancer risk. Findings from this study reinforce the importance of breast density as a risk factor for breast cancer in Black women.