bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Neutral Polysaccharide from Medicago Sativa L.: Structural Properties and Hypoglycemic Activity In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Ma Di , Sheng Qi , Liang Wei , Zhang Jia , Wang Yanni , Chen Hongman 
Published: August 2024

AbstractMedicago sativa polysaccharides (MSPs) are beneficial compounds extracted from Medicago sativa L. that exhibit multiple medicinal activities. However, little is known about their hypoglycemic effects. In this study, MSP‐II‐a, a neutral polysaccharide with an Mw of 4.3×104 Da, was isolated and purified from M. sativa L. Monosaccharide composition analysis determined that MSP‐II‐a was composed of arabinose, glucose, galactose, mannose, rhamnose, and xylose in a molar ratio of 2.1 : 4.0 : 1.1:0.4 : 1.4 : 1.1. Structural characterization of MSP‐II was performed using a combination of methylation analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that MSP‐II‐a was mainly comprised of 1,4‐p‐Glc, 1,3,4‐Rha, and 1,3‐p‐Gal glycosidic linkages, revealing a mesh‐like texture with irregular blade shapes. In vitro assays demonstrated that MSP‐II‐a, at concentrations of 200 and 400 μg/mL, promoted glucose uptake in insulin‐resistant 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. In vivo studies have shown that MSP‐II‐a significantly alleviates insulin resistance by reducing fasting blood glucose levels and increasing hepatic glycogen synthesis in HFD/STZ‐induced diabetic mice. These findings revealed that MSP‐II‐a is a promising source of bioactive polysaccharides with potential hypoglycemic activity.
Deciphering the Effect of a Cu(II)‐hydrazone Complex on Intracellular Cell Signalling Pathways in a Human Osteosarcoma 2D and 3D Models
Authors: Balsa Lucía M. , Santa Maria de la Parra Lucía , Ferretti Valeria , León Ignacio E. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractNew therapeutic strategies for osteosarcoma (OS) have demonstrated the potential efficacy of copper compounds as anticancer drugs and as a substitute for the often used platinum compounds. OS is a type of bone cancer, primarily affecting young adults and children.The main objective of this work is to discover the molecular targets and cellular pathways related to the antitumor properties of a Cu(II)‐hydrazone toward human OS 2D and 3D systems. Cell viability study using MG‐63 cells was evaluated in OS monolayer and spheroids. CuHL significantly reduced cell viability in OS models (IC50 2D: 2.6±0.3 μM; IC50 3D: 9.9±1.4 μM) (p<0.001). Also, CuHL inhibits cell proliferation and it induces cells to apoptosis. The main mechanism of action found for CuHL are the interaction with DNA, genotoxicity, the ROS generation and the proteasome activity inhibition. Besides, 67 differentially expressed proteins were found using proteomic approaches. Of those 67 proteins, 40 were found overexpressed and 27 underexpressed. The response to stress and to unfolded protein, as well as ATP synthesis were the most affected biological process among upregulated proteins, whilst proteins related to DNA replication and redox homeostasis were downregulated.
A case of tick bite on the perianal region
Authors: Huang Gang , Huang Lili , Xue Yuanfeng , Duan Xiaofang , Yao Bangtao 
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical MessageTickborne diseases have become the threats to the health of people worldwide, accounting for nearly 80% patients with vectorborne diseases in the United States. Early diagnosis and proper treatment play a significant role in the management. Close contacts should be screened for delayed symptoms associated with tickborne diseases.AbstractThis study describes a rare case of a 72‐year‐old Chinese man presented with a 5‐day history of painful nodules on the perianal region, indicating tick bite. Tickborne diseases become the threats to the health of people worldwide. Untreated cases may result in several serious inflammatory complications. Manual removal of ticks with fine forceps is effective for preventing the transmission of tickborne infections. People (who have been bitten by a tick) and close contacts should be screened for delayed symptoms associated with tickborne diseases.
Management of an elderly patient with nonsyndromic TGFBR1‐related aortopathy: A case report
Authors: Aono‐Setoguchi Hitomi , Yagi Hiroki , Akiyama Nana , Takeda Norifumi , Ando Masahiko , Yamauchi Haruo , Komuro Issei , Takeda Norihiko 
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical MessageGenetic variants associated with hereditary TAAD may contribute to nonsyndromic TAAD. We present the case of a 72‐year‐old man with nonsyndromic TAAD undergoing prophylactic surgery after a gene panel test revealed a pathogenic variant in TGFBR1, but the indication for genetic testing in such elderly‐onset cases still warrants further discussion.AbstractHereditary thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) is a serious clinical condition resulting in a fatal outcome. Recently, variants in causative genes for syndromic hereditary TAAD, such as Marfan syndrome and Loeys–Dietz syndrome (LDS), have been reported to predispose to the development of nonsyndromic TAAD; however, genetic testing for patients with elderly‐onset nonsyndromic TAAD warrants further discussion. We present a 72‐year‐old nonsyndromic Japanese man with moderate‐sized aortic annulus ectasia (AAE) with moderate aortic regurgitation and ascending to distal arch aortic dilatation (maximum diameter: 46 mm). He had been treated for hypertension and dyslipidemia for 7 years, and his eldest son had AAE at 33 years old and type A aortic dissection at 43 years old. Surgical repair was considered a treatment option because the patient potentially had a nonsyndromic hereditary aortic disease, and genetic panel testing for TAAD identified a pathogenic missense variant in TGFBR1 (c.934G > A, p.[Gly312Ser]), previously reported in patients with LDS type 1. He was diagnosed with nonsyndromic TGFBR1‐related aortopathy and underwent prophylactic surgery using a modified Bentall operation and total arch replacement with open stent graft implantation. Genetic testing was useful in guiding the treatment strategy, but further analysis is warranted to establish the clinical value in the treatment plan for patients with elderly‐onset nonsyndromic TAAD.
Plasmonic Membrane for TiO2 Nanoparticles Activity Detection in Complex Environments
Authors: Tiryaki Ecem , Sousa‐Castillo Ana , Rodríguez‐Lorenzo Laura , Espiña Begoña , Alvarez Puebla Ramón A. , Correa‐Duarte Miguel A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractTitanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) are widely manufactured semiconductors, but their release into aquatic environments poses significant threats to ecosystems and human health. The environmental hazard associated with TiO2NPs in surface water primarily results from their photocatalytic activity, which generates reactive oxygen species (ROS). Addressing this challenge is crucial for ensuring the safe utilization of TiO2NPs and preserving the environment. In this study, we developed a novel plasmonic membrane comprising titanate nanowires (TiNWs) functionalized with silica‐coated gold nanostars (AuNSts) to probe, in situ, the capture and measurement of the photocatalytic activity of TiO2NPs in complex media such as seawater. This method represents a unique and precise approach to real‐time monitoring of the presence and photocatalytic activity of TiO2NPs, thereby laying the foundation for establishing an environmental risk parameter for these particles.
Simulation of Modified Nanoporous Titanate Composite Membrane in Reverse Osmosis Desalination Process
Authors: Deymi Parinaz , Pouranfard Abdolrasoul , Emadzadeh Daryoush 
Published: August 2024

AbstractNowadays, due to the lack of drinking water and the increase in global demand, desalination by reverse osmosis (RO) has been developed. In this regard, activities have been carried out to increase water flux and salt removal, which are important indicators in this process, including membrane modification by loading nanoparticles (NPs). Process simulation plays an important role in reducing laboratory costs, improving efficiency, and investigating operational parameters in more detail. This is an important factor that leads us to process simulation. The simulation of the RO process by thin‐film composite membranes modified with nanoporous titanate (mNTs) NPs has been conducted using COMSOL software. The performance of this process was checked by loading different amounts of mNTs with the desired membrane. The results revealed that by adding 0.01 w % of mNTs to the membrane composition, the performance of the process was improved in that the initial water flux through the membrane increased by about 95.4 %, while the salt rejection remained nearby 98 % and did not decrease much. Finally, to validate and expand the simulation results, the model outcomes were compared with experimental data, and the mean relative error for water flux and salt removal percentage was 1.15 % and 0.83 %, respectively.
Tetrazaisoindigos:Serpentine Syntheses and Their Expected and Unexpected Photophysical and Electronic Properties
Authors: Wei Tangli , Sun Qian , Yang Wenyi , Zhang Juanjuan , Chen Xinyu , Mu Youbing , Lan Zhenggang , Liu Cui , Wan Xiaobo 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIsoindigo, an electron‐withdrawing building block for polymeric field‐effect transistors, has long been considered to be non‐fluorescent. Moreover, using electron‐deficient heterocycle to replace the phenyl ring in the isoindigo core for better electron transport behaviour is synthetically challenging. Here we report the syntheses of a series of tetrazaisoindigos, including pyrazinoisoindigo (PyrII), pyrimidoisoindigo (PymII) and their hybrid (PyrPymII), and the investigation on their photophysical and electric properties. Proper flanking groups need to be chosen to stabilize these highly electron‐deficient bislactams. Both PyrII and PymII derivatives show lower LUMO energy levels than that of naphthalene bisimide (NDI). Interestingly, PyrII is instinctively unstable and can be easily reduced, while both PymII derivatives are stable. More surprisingly, PymII derivatives are highly fluorescent and their photoluminescence quantum yields are around 40 %, 133 times higher than that of reported isoindigo derivatives. UV‐vis spectroscopic results and theoretical calculations show that strong intramolecular hydrogen‐bond exists in PymII, which prohibits it from non‐radiative decay and accounts for its fluorescent behaviour. PymII derivatives are n‐type semiconductors, while Ph‐PyrII and the hybrid show balanced ambipolar charge transport behaviour, all among the best isoindigo derivatives. Our study not only discloses the structure‐property relationship of tetrazaisoindigos, but also provides novel electron‐deficient monomers for conjugated polymers.
Concentrations and health risk assessment of selected cations and anions in drinking water in Antalya, Türkiye
Authors: Kilic Murat 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the potential health risks associated with ion concentrations in fountains used for drinking water in the Antalya/Konyaaltı tourism center region. A total of 32 fountain samples commonly used during the summer were analyzed to determine the anion and cation concentrations using ion chromatography equipped with a conductivity detector. The results showed high accuracy and reliability, with R2 values ranging between 0.998 and 0.999 and recovery values between 97% and 110% at low and high concentrations. The method detection limit and method quantification limit were determined as 0.004 and 0.276, respectively, whereas the pH values ranged from 6.71 to 7.69. When examining the average fluoride and nitrate levels in different age groups, the nitrate daily acceptable intake (total hardness index) values were found to be 0.175, 0.091, and 0.076 µg kg−1 body weight per day for children, adolescents, and adults, respectively. Overall, the study suggests that children have the highest exposure levels due to their lower body weight, and exposure levels decrease with increasing age.
Macrocyclic Inhibitors Targeting the Prime Site of the Fibrinolytic Serine Protease Plasmin
Authors: Wiedemeyer Simon J. A. , Wu Guojie , Lang‐Henkel Heike , Whisstock James C , Law Ruby H. P. , Steinmetzer Torsten 
Published: August 2024

AbstractTwo series of macrocyclic inhibitors addressing the S1 pocket and the prime site of the fibrinolytic serine protease plasmin have been developed. In the first series, a P1 tranexamoyl residue was coupled to 4‐aminophenylalanine in P1’ position, which provided moderately potent inhibitors with inhibition constants around 1 μM. In the second series, a substituted biphenylalanine was incorporated as P1’ residue leading to approximately 1000‐fold stronger plasmin inhibitors, the best compounds possess subnanomolar inhibition constants. The most effective compounds already exhibit a certain selectivity as plasmin inhibitors compared to other trypsin‐like serine proteases such as trypsin, plasma kallikrein, thrombin, activated protein Ca, as well as factors XIa and Xa. For inhibitor 28 of the second series, the co‐crystal structure in complex with a Ser195Ala microplasmin mutant revealed that the P2’ residue adopts multiple conformations. Most polar contacts to plasmin and surrounding water molecules are mediated through the P1 tranexamoyl residue, whereas the bound conformation of the macrocycle is mainly stabilized by two intramolecular hydrogen bonds.
Identification of Novel Potential Predisposing Variants in Familial Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Ronchini Chiara , Gigli Federica , Fontanini Martina , Furgi Raffaella , Amato Viviana , Giglio Fabio , Gregato Giuliana , Bertolini Francesco , Rondoni Michela , Lanza Francesco , Billio Atto , Derenzini Enrico , Tarella Corrado , Pelicci Pier Giuseppe , Alcalay Myriam , Todisco Elisabetta 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundMyeloid neoplasms, including acute myeloid leukemia, have been traditionally among the less investigated cancer types concerning germline predisposition. Indeed, myeloid neoplasms with germline predisposition are challenging to identify because often display similar clinical and morphological characteristics of sporadic cases and have similar age at diagnosis. However, a misidentifications of familiarity in myeloid neoplasms have a critical impact on clinical management both for the carriers and their relatives.AimsWe conducted a family segregation study, in order to identify novel cancer predisposing genes in myeloid neoplasms and classify novel identified variants.Methods and ResultsWe performed a thorough genomic analysis using a large custom gene panel (256 genes), the Myelo‐Panel, targeted on cancer predisposing genes. In particular, we assessed both germline and somatic variants in four families, each with two siblings, who developed hematological neoplasms: seven acute myeloid leukemia and one Philadelphia‐positive chronic myeloid leukemia. In each family, we identified at least one novel potentially predisposing variant, affecting also genes not included in the current European LeukemiaNet guidelines for AML management. Moreover, we suggest reclassification of two germline variants as pathogenic: likely pathogenic p.S21Tfs*139 in CEPBA and VUS p.K392Afs*66 in DDX41.ConclusionWe believe that predisposition to hematological neoplasms is still underestimated and particularly difficult to diagnosed. Considering that misidentification of familiarity in myeloid neoplasms have a critical impact on the clinical management both for the carriers and their relatives, our study highlights the importance of revision, in this clinical context, of clinical practices that should include thorough reconstruction of family history and in‐depth genetic testing.
Assessing Sarcopenia in Advanced‐Stage Ovarian Cancer Patients Undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Case Series
Authors: Schofield Christelle , Taaffe Dennis R. , Newton Robert U. , Galvão Daniel A. , Cohen Paul A. , Kim Jin‐Soo , Meniawy Tarek , Peddle‐McIntyre Carolyn 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesIn ovarian and other cancers, low muscle mass and density are associated with poorer clinical outcomes. However, screening for cancer‐related sarcopenia (typically defined as low muscle mass) is not routinely conducted. The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) recommends an algorithm for sarcopenia screening and diagnosis in clinical settings, with sarcopenia based on muscle strength and mass, and severity on physical performance. We explored the application of the EWGSOP2 algorithm to assess sarcopenia in six ovarian cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy.MethodsWe assessed sarcopenia risk with the SARC‐F screening questionnaire (at risk ≥4 points), muscle strength with a handgrip strength test (cut point <16 kg) and five times sit‐to‐stand test (cut point >15 s), muscle mass by skeletal muscle index (SMI in cm2/m2 from a single computed tomography [CT] image; cut point <38.5 cm2/m2), and physical performance with a 4‐m gait speed test (cut point ≤0.8 m/s).ResultsOf six participants, none were identified as “at risk” for sarcopenia based on SARC‐F scores. Two participants were severely sarcopenic based on EWGSOP2 criteria (had low muscle strength, mass, and physical performance), and five participants were sarcopenic based on muscle mass only.DiscussionOvarian cancer patients with low muscle mass during neoadjuvant chemotherapy may not be identified as sarcopenic based on the EWGSOP2 diagnostic algorithm. While lacking a universally accepted definition for cancer‐related sarcopenia and cancer‐specific recommendations for the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of sarcopenia, ovarian cancer clinicians should focus on the diagnosis and treatment of low muscle mass and density.
Combining Nitrogen Doping and Vacancies for Tunable Resonant States in Graphite
Authors: Demba Demba , Karn Abhishek , Chacon Cyril , Girard Yann , Repain Vincent , Bellec Amandine , Amara Hakim , Lang Philippe , Lagoute Jérôme 
Published: August 2024

AbstractWe investigate the combination of nitrogen doping and vacancies in highly ordered pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), to engineer defect sites with adjustable electronic properties. We combine scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations to reveal the synergistic effects of nitrogen and vacancies in HOPG. Our findings reveal a remarkable shift of the vacancy‐induced resonance peak from an unoccupied state in pristine HOPG to an occupied state in nitrogen‐doped HOPG. This shift directly correlates with the shift of the charge neutrality point resulting from the n‐doping induced by substitutional nitrogen. These results open new avenues for defect engineering in graphite or graphene and achieving novel functionalities for chemical activity or electronic properties.
On the Effectiveness of Visual Arts Therapy for Traumatic Experiences: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Maddox Georgina A. , Bodner Glen E. , Christian Matthew W. , Williamson Paul 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTArts therapy is a popular intervention used to work through the effects of traumatic experience. We evaluate previous reviews and report a meta‐analysis of the effectiveness of arts therapy following trauma for reducing symptoms of PTSD, enhancing positive outcomes (e.g., quality of life) and decreasing negative outcomes (e.g., depression). Database searches identified 21 (N = 868) randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Outcomes were categorised as PTSD specific, positive non‐PTSD specific and negative non‐PTSD specific. Several moderators were tested: age, diagnosis type, trauma type, intervention instruction, control type, therapy mode and therapy duration. Overall, random‐effects analysis indicated that arts therapy was favoured relative to control for positive non‐PTSD‐specific outcomes (g = 1.53, p < 0.001), but not for negative non‐PTSD‐specific (p = 0.069) or PTSD‐specific outcomes (g = 0.89, p = 0.052). Regression analyses indicated that arts therapy was effective in reducing PTSD‐specific outcomes in children (Z = 2.81, df = 1, p = 0.005), positive non‐PTSD‐specific outcomes in group‐based arts therapy (Z = −2.40, df = 1, p = 0.016, I2 = 57.33) and for reducing negative non‐PTSD outcomes following acute traumas (e.g., combat‐related trauma or sexual abuse) (Q = 10.70, df = 3, p = 0.013, I2 = 77.09). We highlight the need for additional RCTs and standardised protocols to address heterogeneity. Our review provides an important benchmark for gauging the effectiveness of arts therapy in the treatment of trauma.
Pilot Case Series Studying a Psychoeducational and Motivational Treatment for Children With Low‐Weight Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Authors: Matheson Brittany , Datta Nandini , Van Wye Eliza , Yang Hyun‐Joon , Lock James 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveResearch on treatments for children with avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is needed. This pilot case series describes outcome data for 20 children ages 6–12 years old with a diagnosis of ARFID and who are low‐weight.MethodParticipants were recruited nationwide as part of an ongoing randomized clinical trial. All participants in this study received a 14‐session psychoeducational and motivational treatment (PMT) protocol. Parents completed measures of ARFID severity (the Pica, ARFID, Rumination Disorder Interview) and parental self‐efficacy (Parents vs. ARFID scale). Height and weight were self‐reported by parents and percent of estimated body weight (%EBW) was calculated. Assessments occurred at baseline, 1‐month within treatment, 2‐months within treatment, end‐of‐treatment (EOT), and 6‐month follow‐up.ResultsTwenty children (10.34 ± 1.76 years; 85% Non‐Hispanic; 75% White; 70% female; 84.16 ± 4.66% EBW) with low‐weight ARFID and their parents received PMT‐ARFID with a clinician specializing in eating disorders. By EOT, PARDI severity scores decreased (large effect size) parental self‐efficacy increased (medium effect size), but %EBW remained unchanged.DiscussionAdditional research evaluating PMT in adequately powered clinical trials for youth with ARFID is needed.
Using stream dissolved oxygen and light relationships to estimate stream primary production on mountainous headwater stream ecosystems
Authors: Villamizar Sandra R. , Segura Catalina , Warren Dana R. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractHeadwater streams influence the carbon cycle, but their productivity estimation remains challenging. We propose the use of dissolved oxygen data (% saturation, DOsat) and on‐site photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) data to develop DOsat~PAR curves as an analogy to the well‐known photosynthesis–irradiance (P–E) curves. The premise of our research is that although these curves are simple, they provide detailed information of stream ecosystem productivity dynamics. We used data from two streams in the Oregon Coast Range to investigate daily gross primary productivity (GPP). We used properties of the light‐limited portion of the DOsat~PAR regression curves to produce a model to estimate GPP. We found that the slope of the DO–PAR relation varied widely between 1.6 × 10−4 and 0.045 and had strong correlations (r2 > 0.78). The data from one of the two study sites (Oak Creek) was used for model development while the data from the other site (South Fork Mill Creek) was used for model validation. The model's ability to quantify the effects of a discrete storm event on stream productivity was tested by comparing GPP estimates calculated through a Bayesian framework (streamMetabolizer) and our raw data‐driven estimates of GPP which were based on the variability of the DOsat~PAR regression curves. The proposed methodology was successful in estimating GPP in headwaters. We foresee that this method may be used to assess disturbances and construct a baseline understanding of productivity dynamics in other headwater ecosystems that is independent of the methodological challenges of the current stream metabolism models.