bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Perilipins: A family of five fat‐droplet storing proteins that play a significant role in fat homeostasis
Authors: Chandrasekaran Preethi , Weiskirchen Sabine , Weiskirchen Ralf 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLipid droplets are organelles with unique spherical structures. They consist of a hydrophobic neutral lipid core that varies depending on the cell type and tissue. These droplets are surrounded by phospholipid monolayers, along with heterogeneous proteins responsible for neutral lipid synthesis and metabolism. Additionally, there are specialized lipid droplet‐associated surface proteins. Recent evidence suggests that proteins from the perilipin family (PLIN) are associated with the surface of lipid droplets and are involved in their formation. These proteins have specific roles in hepatic lipid droplet metabolism, such as protecting the lipid droplets from lipase action and maintaining a balance between lipid storage and utilization in specific cells. Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is characterized by the accumulation of lipid droplets in more than 5% of the hepatocytes. This accumulation can progress into metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The accumulation of hepatic lipid droplets in the liver is associated with the progression of MASLD and other diseases such as sarcopenic obesity. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the role of perilipins in this accumulation, as these proteins are key targets for developing novel therapeutic strategies. This comprehensive review aims to summarize the structure and characteristics of PLIN proteins, as well as their pathogenic role in the development of hepatic steatosis and fatty liver diseases.
PCSK9 inhibitors as safer therapeutics for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD): Pharmacophore design and molecular dynamics analysis
Authors: Kehinde Ibrahim O. , Akawa Oluwole , Adewumi Adeniyi T. , Rabbad Ali H. , Soliman Mahmoud E. S. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractCardiovascular disorders are still challenging and are among the deadly diseases. As a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, and high low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol in particular, can be prevented primary and secondary by lipid‐lowering medications. Therefore, insights are still needed into designing new drugs with minimal side effects. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) enzyme catalyses protein‐protein interactions with low‐density lipoprotein, making it a critical target for designing promising inhibitors compared to statins. Therefore, we screened for potential compounds using a redesigned PCSK9 conformational behaviour to search for a significantly extensive chemical library and investigated the inhibitory mechanisms of the final compounds using integrated computational methods, from ligand essential functional group screening to all‐atoms MD simulations and MMGBSA‐based binding free energy. The inhibitory mechanisms of the screened compounds compared with the standard inhibitor. K31 and K34 molecules showed stronger interactions for PCSK9, having binding energy (kcal/mol) of −33.39 and −63.51, respectively, against −27.97 of control. The final molecules showed suitable drug‐likeness, non‐mutagenesis, permeability, and high solubility values. The C‐α atoms root mean square deviation and root mean square fluctuation of the bound‐PCSK9 complexes showed stable and lower fluctuations compared to apo PCSK9. The findings present a model that unravels the mechanism by which the final molecules proposedly inhibit the PCSK9 function and could further improve the design of novel drugs against cardiovascular diseases.
Merging meaningful classes and abstract equivalence classes by exclusion
Authors: Marin Ramon , Harte Colin , das Graças de Souza Deisy 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe current experiment assessed whether relating abstract stimuli with familiar pictures by exclusion would produce the formation of a meaningful equivalence class. Ten participants learned conditional discrimination relations with abstract stimuli and established equivalence classes (ABC classes). They then learned DA (D1A1, D2A2, and D3A3) conditional discriminations with written words as D stimuli; two words (D1 and D2) were meaningful stimuli in the participants verbal community (“Dentist” and “Baker”), whereas the third (D3) was a pseudoword (“Tabilu”). In testing trials, participants evidenced derived relations between pictures related preexperimentally to D1 and D2 with the experimental equivalence classes related to D1 and D2. For some participants, the decontextualized stimuli were a set of boat pictures (Condition 1), whereas for others they were a set of miscellaneous pictures (Condition 2). Participants in both conditions successfully matched decontextualized pictures (unrelated to dentist and baker contexts) to all abstract stimuli in the class related to D3 (exclusion responding). In Condition 1 the meaning reported to the word Tabilu was similar across participants, but in Condition 2 participants showed more variations to answer to the meaning of Tabilu. These results suggest that exclusion learning can occur under different stimulus control topographies.
Case report: Sequential inotuzumab, blinatumomab, and chemotherapy with concurrent donor lymphocyte infusions induce complete remission in relapsed pre‐B acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Beer Sina A. , Bethge Wolfgang , Faul Christoph , Lengerke Claudia , Vogel Wichard 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis case report presents the successful management of relapsed/refractory (r/r) B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a 54‐year‐old male post‐allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. The combinatorial approach of sequential antibody treatment (Inotuzumab [InO] and Blinatumomab [Blina]) combined with three donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI) applications and cytoreductive chemotherapy‐induced sustained complete molecular remission as documented at the last follow‐up 30 months later. This case highlights the feasibility and potential synergistic efficacy of a Blina/DLI regimen and supports the hypothesis that T‐cell engagers could enhance the DLI effect. Furthermore, the co‐administration of InO, Blina, DLI, and cytoreductive chemotherapy was proven to be feasible without severe adverse events.
Implications of environmental nanoparticles on neurodegeneration
Authors: Hermosillo‐Abundis Cristina , Méndez‐Rojas Miguel A. , Arias‐Carrión Oscar 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe ubiquity of nanoparticles, sourced from both natural environments and human activities, presents critical challenges for public health. While offering significant potential for innovative biomedical applications—especially in enhancing drug transport across the blood–brain barrier—these particles also introduce possible hazards due to inadvertent exposure. This concise review explores the paradoxical nature of nanoparticles, emphasizing their promising applications in healthcare juxtaposed with their potential neurotoxic consequences. Through a detailed examination, we delineate the pathways through which nanoparticles can reach the brain and the subsequent health implications. There is growing evidence of a disturbing association between nanoparticle exposure and the onset of neurodegenerative conditions, highlighting the imperative for comprehensive research and strategic interventions. Gaining a deep understanding of these mechanisms and enacting protective policies are crucial steps toward reducing the health threats of nanoparticles, thereby maximizing their therapeutic advantages.
The mirror effect in online survey data: Evidence and implications for marketing theory and strategy
Authors: Stocchi Lara , Bellman Steve , Pourazad Naser , Michaelidou Nina , Wright Malcolm 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis research reveals the presence, in online survey data, of a key pattern documented in psychology lab research: the Mirror Effect. The Mirror Effect occurs when unfamiliar stimuli are unexpectedly recognized as accurately as familiar stimuli, or more accurately. Using a set of familiar and unfamiliar words (as determined by lexical frequency), we first report that we can robustly replicate psychology lab research in an online survey, detecting the Mirror Effect. We then apply the same analytical approach to surveying consumer recognition of everyday brands (supermarkets, banks and car brands). We find that unfamiliar brands can be recognized with the same level of accuracy as familiar brands, and this effect is stronger than age and gender memory biases present in the data. However, we detect a boundary condition for branded apps, which are extremely unfamiliar brands competing in highly fragmented marketplaces, so very few get downloaded or used. For these digital brands, we find a Concordant Effect, as most respondents find it difficult to recognize highly unfamiliar branded apps (i.e., those with fewer than 5000 downloads). The Mirror Effect re‐emerges for highly experienced app users. These results demonstrate the implications of a generalizable empirical pattern from cognitive psychology for branding and advertising theory. The outcomes of this research also translate into practical guidelines for brand performance measurement via online surveys, mitigating recognition memory bias for the development of marketing strategies based on more accurate interpretation of empirical evidence.
The association between consumers' chronic concerns about infectious disease and anthropomorphism
Authors: Whelan Jodie , Hingston Sean T. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAssigning human characteristics to products and brands (i.e., anthropomorphism) is a tactic commonly adopted by marketers. However, researchers have recently highlighted the importance of better understanding which consumers will be more (or less) responsive to these cues. Drawing on the behavioral immune system and anthropomorphism literatures, we hypothesize that consumers who are chronically concerned about their susceptibility to infectious disease will have a greater tendency to anthropomorphize nonhuman entities (e.g., nature, technology, and consumer products) because doing so creates relatively pathogen‐free sources of social connection. Importantly, we also predict that this tendency will be muted when consumers are highly germ averse. To test these predictions, we examined the relationships between perceived infectability and germ aversion, the two subscales of the established Perceived Vulnerability to Disease scale, and three different measures of consumers' tendency to anthropomorphize nonhuman entities. The results of four studies, including a preregistered, high‐powered replication, support our hypotheses and offer the first evidence of a context wherein perceived infectability and germ aversion interact.
Neurotransmitter accumulation and Parkinson's disease‐like phenotype caused by anion channelrhodopsin opto‐controlled astrocytic mitochondrial depolarization in substantia nigra pars compacta
Authors: Li Sen‐Miao , Wang Dian‐Dian , Liu Dan‐Hua , Meng Xiao‐Yan , Wang Zhizhong , Guo Xitong , Liu Qian , Liu Pei‐Pei , Li Shu‐Ang , Wang Songwei , Yang Run‐Zhou , Xu Yuming , Wang Longde , Kang Jian‐Sheng 
Published: May 2024

AbstractParkinson's disease (PD) is a mitochondria‐related neurodegenerative disease characterized by locomotor deficits and loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). Majority of PD research primarily focused on neuronal dysfunction, while the roles of astrocytes and their mitochondria remain largely unexplored. To bridge the gap and investigate the roles of astrocytic mitochondria in PD progression, we constructed a specialized optogenetic tool, mitochondrial‐targeted anion channelrhodopsin, to manipulate mitochondrial membrane potential in astrocytes. Utilizing this tool, the depolarization of astrocytic mitochondria within the SNc in vivo led to the accumulation of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate in SNc, subsequently resulting in excitatory/inhibitory imbalance and locomotor deficits. Consequently, in vivo calcium imaging and interventions of neurotransmitter antagonists demonstrated that GABA accumulation mediated movement deficits of mice. Furthermore, 1 h/day intermittent astrocytic mitochondrial depolarization for 2 weeks triggered spontaneous locomotor dysfunction, α‐synuclein aggregation, and the loss of DA neurons, suggesting that astrocytic mitochondrial depolarization was sufficient to induce a PD‐like phenotype. In summary, our findings suggest the maintenance of proper astrocytic mitochondrial function and the reinstatement of a balanced neurotransmitter profile may provide a new angle for mitigating neuronal dysfunction during the initial phases of PD.
The effect of aromatherapy during urodynamic testing on patients anxiety and cortisol levels: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kettas Dolek Elife , Altun Ugras Gülay 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundDuring urodynamic testing (UT), patients may experience emotions such as embarrassment, discomfort, irritability, and tension, which can cause anxiety. Aromatherapy is a complementary and alternative treatment that may be employed in clinical settings to alleviate patients' anxiety before invasive procedures.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine the effect of aromatherapy on patients' anxiety and cortisol levels during UT.Materials and MethodsThe sample of this single‐center, prospective, two‐armed, randomized controlled clinical study consisted of 98 patients undergoing UT. Patients were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 49) and the control group (n = 49). The anxiety level was assessed using the state‐trait anxiety inventory (STAI), and measured with physiological responses to anxiety, such as changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), and cortisol levels, pre and post‐UT. Aromatherapy was applied to the intervention group starting 5 min before UT and continuing throughout the testing. The control group received routine treatment and care. Data were analyzed using Pearson's χ2, dependent samples t‐tests, and independent samples t‐tests.ResultsIn the study, post‐UT anxiety in the intervention group was significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.001), while SpO2 was higher (p = 0.021). In the study group, post‐UT anxiety (p < 0.001), HR (p = 0.000), and cortisol levels (p = 0.005) decreased compared to pre‐UT, whereas in the control group, anxiety (p < 0.001) and HR (p = 0.000) decreased, and SBP (p = 0.010) and RR (p = 0.004) increased.ConclusionsAromatherapy during UT positively influenced both the psychological and physiological responses to anxiety.
Identifying Practice Gaps Among Otolaryngology Providers for the Treatment of Chronic Cough
Authors: Demirjian Natalie L. , Lever Austin , Yip Helena 
Published: May 2024

AbstractObjectiveIncreasing evidence over the last decade suggests that many cases of unexplained chronic cough (UCC) have a neurogenic etiology, with laryngeal hypersensitivity (LH) being identified as a key mechanism. Official guidelines since 2015 have adopted use of neuromodulators and adjuvant speech therapy as a result, but historically implementation of guidelines is slow. Our survey aimed to investigate gaps in diagnosis and management practices of otolaryngology providers in caring for patients with UCC.Study DesignCross‐sectional study.SettingSurvey.Methods12‐item survey was distributed to 110 otolaryngology practitioners experienced in diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough at a regional otolaryngology continuing education conference. Statistical analysis included Kendall's Tau Rank Correlation to measure the ordinal association between responses to questions, and Fisher's exact test to determine if there were associations between responses and years of career experience.ResultsForty eligible respondents underwent subsequent analysis. There was no association between frequency of identifying LH as a primary etiology and use of neuromodulators (τ = 0.23, P = .10). However, there was a significant correlation between LH and referrals to speech therapy (τ = 0.27, P = .05). Fisher's exact test did not reveal any significant differences among any responses based on practitioner experience.ConclusionOur results indicate a possible disparity in treatment of UCC with neuromodulators and the utilization of speech therapy despite guideline recommendations advocating for neuromodulators with adjuvant speech therapy. Further research with larger sample sizes and more specific inquiries is necessary to elucidate this association and control for any regional differences.
Electrical behavior and water phase transformation in multi‐walled carbon nanotube/polytetrafluoroethylene composite films
Authors: Eom Taesik , Shin Seungcheol , Hong Myungjin , Lee Eun Sang , Lee Sang‐Eui 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMulti‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with excellent physiochemical properties have been recently applied to energy/power generation and storage systems encompassing polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). However, there is a lack of investigations of the properties of MWCNT composites themselves under the actual operating conditions of systems. In this paper, MWCNTs/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites were fabricated as electric and hydrophobic components for energy/power systems. The electrical properties, heating behavior, hydrophobicity, and water evaporation behavior of the composites are characterized within the operating voltage ranges of PEMFC. With 50% MWCNT content, the conductivity and the contact angle were 11.83 S/cm, and the contact angle 128.1°, respectively. The MWCNT/PTFE composite film showed a linear temperature rise with voltages and rapid temperature saturation within 40 s. The rate in the initial heating range was measured at 0.5°C/s for the voltage of 0.5 V. The voltage increase induced an exponential decrease in the height of water droplets on the composite surface. The evaporation rate increased almost 10‐fold, from 0.013 mm/min at 0.0 V to 0.12 mm/min at 1.0 V. The proposed characteristics of the functional composite provide insights into the material requirements for electrochemical devices, including PEMFC.Highlights
Multi‐walled carbon nanotube/polytetrafluoroethylene composites can be applied to energy storage and power generation.
Key properties of the composites are proposed for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) operating conditions.
The composite has a fast heating by high conductivity and temperature uniformity.
Water‐vapor transformation under PEMFC operating voltage is quantified.
Investigation on the torsional property of hybrid composite/metal shafts at different service temperatures: Experimental and analytical study
Authors: Qi Wenxuan , Xu Zeyuan , Wan Yanxiang , Gerada David , Gerada Chris 
Published: May 2024

AbstractTorsional tests were conducted to investigate the influence of service temperature on torsional property of composite/steel hybrid structures. In the experiment, two types of lightweight hybrid composite‐metal shafts were tested at both room temperature and various elevated temperatures up to 150°C, including hybrid shafts with and without a metal core. Consequently, the torsional stiffness of the two hybrid shafts at different temperatures was calculated based on the recorded angular deformation‐torque curves. The experimental results revealed a significant decrease in the torsional stiffness of the hybrid shaft without metal core as the increase of service temperature, while the torsional stiffness of the one with metal core remained almost unchanged, especially at high temperatures. In addition, a finite element model was proposed to predict the torsional behavior of the hybrid shafts at different service temperatures. In the model, an empirical equation was introduced, and micromechanical method was adopted to determine the temperature‐dependant elastic properties of composite material and adhesive layer in the hybrid structure. Then, the predicted torsional property was compared to the experimental results for model verification.Highlights
Two types of hybrid composite‐metal shafts are designed and manufactured.
Torsional tests are conducted at both room and elevated temperatures up to 150°C.
A finite element model applicable to shaft at various temperatures is proposed.
The temperature‐dependant property is characterized by an efficient equation.
Understanding aging characteristics of a pyrotechnic initiator through performance modeling in Closed Bomb Tests
Authors: Jang Seung‐gyo , Kim Dong‐seong , Han Doo‐Hee 
Published: May 2024

AbstractWe conducted an analysis of the natural aging characteristics of an electric pyrotechnic initiator stored for 11 years, using 10‐cm3 Closed Bomb Tests (CBTs). For the comparative analysis, we utilized the closed bomb test data from other three batches that were tested 11 years ago when they were produced. Notably, two aged samples exhibited peculiar phenomena in terms of maximum pressure and the time taken to reach it, both of which are the performance indicators of Closed Bomb Tests. The time taken to reach maximum pressure increased in both aged samples compared to the pristine samples. Additionally, while one aged sample demonstrated a higher maximum pressure, the other displayed a significantly lower value compared to the pristine ones. Through statistical analysis of test results from three batches of the reference samples and one batch of aged samples led us to propose the existence of a natural aging effect on the initiator. The increase in time taken to reach maximum pressure compared to the reference samples can be attributed to the phenomenon of an increasing particle size distribution of spherical combustion particles in the present combustion model. Furthermore, the aging of the binder of the initiator charge likely contribute to a relative increase in the size of the combustion particles due to the binder hardening over time. To explain the phenomenon of the pressure initially reaches its maximum value on the CBT pressure‐time curve and subsequently decrease, we introduce the concept of condensation, where the gas phase transitions into liquid and solid phases.
Addressing the challenges of dementia care in Nigeria: A call for a comprehensive national strategy
Authors: Oyinlola Oluwagbemiga 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDespite the growing prevalence of dementia, driven by an ageing population and compounded by cultural misunderstandings and stigma, Nigeria lacks a coherent national plan to address this issue. The article points out that although Nigeria has enacted policies such as the National Aging Policy, which do not sufficiently address the specific needs of people living with dementia. It underscores the necessity of integrating a dementia strategy within the broader health and social care systems of Nigeria. The article draws on the World Health Organization's Global Dementia Action Plan to elaborates on several critical areas for action, including public health prioritization of dementia, awareness and stigma reduction, improved diagnosis, treatment, care, and support, alongside bolstering support for caregivers. It stresses the importance of a dementia‐friendly infrastructure, research and innovation, and leveraging community support to foster a more inclusive society. Furthermore, the article outlines current state of healthcare and social support systems in Nigeria, pointing to significant gaps in infrastructure, healthcare workforce, and financial mechanisms that hinder effective dementia care. Hence, elevating dementia care as a national health priority, and increasing access to quality care and support, Nigeria is well positioned to mitigate the impact of dementia on families and the person with dementia. The call to action is clear: a national dementia strategy, informed by global best practices and tailored to Nigeria's unique cultural and societal context, is essential for addressing the challenges of dementia care and improving the well‐being of affected individuals and their families in Nigeria.