bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Disordered GPR43/NLRP3 expression in peripheral leukocytes of patients with atrial fibrillation is associated with intestinal short chain fatty acids levels
Authors: Fang Chen , Zuo Kun , Liu Zheng , Xu Li , Yang Xinchun 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with circulating inflammation. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) derived from gut microbiota (GM) regulate leukocyte function and inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines, which are partly mediated by the G-protein-coupled receptor 43 (GPR43) signaling. This study aimed to investigate the expression of GPR43/NOD-like receptors family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) in leukocytes and the interaction with intestinal SCFAs levels in AF patients.

Methods
Expressions of GPR43 and NLRP3 mRNA in peripheral blood leukocytes from 23 AF patients and 25 non-AF controls were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Expressions of leukocyte GPR43 and NLRP3 protein were evaluated by western blot analysis. The levels of plasma IL-1β were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The fecal SCFAs levels based on GC/MS metabolome of corresponding 21 controls and 14 AF patients were acquired from our published dataset. To evaluate the expression of NLRP3 and GPR43 and the release of IL-1β, human THP-1 cells were stimulated with or without SCFAs (acetate, propionate, and butyrate), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and nigericin in vitro, respectively.

Results
Compared to the controls, the mRNA expression in peripheral leukocytes was significantly reduced in AF patients (P = 0.011) coupled with the increase in downstream leukocyte NLRP3 mRNA expression (P = 0.007) and plasma IL-1β levels (P < 0.001), consistent with changes in GPR43 and NLRP3 protein expression. Furthermore, leukocyte GPR43 mRNA levels were positively correlated with fecal GM-derived acetic acid (P = 0.046) and negatively correlated with NLRP3 mRNA expression (P = 0.024). In contrast to the negative correlation between left atrial diameter (LAD) and GPR43 (P = 0.008), LAD was positively correlated with the leukocyte NLRP3 mRNA levels (P = 0.024). Subsequent mediation analysis showed that 68.88% of the total effect of intestinal acetic acid on AF might be mediated by leukocyte GPR43/NLRP3. The constructed GPR43–NLRP3 score might have a predictive potential for AF detection (AUC = 0.81, P < 0.001). Moreover, SCFAs treatment increased GPR43 expression and remarkably reduced LPS/nigericin-induced NLRP3 expression and IL-1β release in human THP-1 cells in vitro.

Conclusions
Disrupted interactions between GPR43 and NLRP3 expression in peripheral blood leukocytes, associated with reduced intestinal GM-derived SCFAs, especially acetic acid, may be involved in AF development and left atrial enlargement by enhancing circulating inflammation.
Asymptotically consistent and computationally efficient modeling of short-ranged molecular interactions between curved slender fibers undergoing large 3D deformations
Authors: Grill Maximilian J. , Wall Wolfgang A. , Meier Christoph 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis article proposes a novel computational modeling approach for short-ranged molecular interactions between curved slender fibers undergoing large 3D deformations, and gives a detailed overview how it fits into the framework of existing fiber or beam interaction models, either considering microscale molecular or macroscale contact effects. The direct evaluation of a molecular interaction potential between two general bodies in 3D space would require to integrate molecule densities over two 3D volumes, leading to a sixfold integral to be solved numerically. By exploiting the short-range nature of the considered class of interaction potentials as well as the fundamental kinematic assumption of undeformable fiber cross-sections, as typically applied in mechanical beam theories, a recently derived, closed-form analytical solution is applied for the interaction potential between a given section of the first fiber (slave beam) and the entire second fiber (master beam), whose geometry is linearly expanded at the point with smallest distance to the given slave beam section. This novel approach based on a pre-defined section–beam interaction potential (SBIP) requires only one single integration step along the slave beam length to be performed numerically. In addition to significant gains in computational efficiency, the total beam–beam interaction potential resulting from this approach is shown to exhibit an asymptotically consistent angular and distance scaling behavior. Critically for the numerical solution scheme, a regularization of the interaction potential in the zero-separation limit as well as the finite element discretization of the interacting fibers, modeled by the geometrically exact beam theory, are presented. In addition to elementary two-fiber systems, carefully chosen to verify accuracy and asymptotic consistence of the proposed SBIP approach, a potential practical application in form of adhesive nanofiber-grafted surfaces is studied. Involving a large number of helicoidal fibers undergoing large 3D deformations, arbitrary mutual fiber orientations as well as frequent local fiber pull-off and snap-into-contact events, this example demonstrates the robustness and computational efficiency of the new approach.
Interactive driving of electrostatic film actuator by proximity motion of human body
Authors: Okuno Akira , Yoshimoto Shunsuke , Yamamoto Akio 
Published: April 2024

AbstractA built-in capacitive proximity sensing method for a charge-induction electrostatic film actuator is proposed. This actuator consists of two thin sheets that function as a stator and a slider. A stator is an insulating sheet with many strips of electrodes in it, whereas a slider is a dielectric sheet that has slight conductivity on its surface. By applying actuation voltage on stator electrodes, the slider that is placed on the stator is driven by electrostatic force. This research realized the simultaneous actuation and proximity sensing using the same electrodes by integrating a resonance-based capacitance measurement circuit into a driving circuit. The study investigated the impact of having a slider on sensing performance, confirming the feasibility of simultaneous sensing and driving. The implemented system achieved an interactive actuation that changed driving velocity according to the proximity distance of the human hand.
Multiplexing near- and far-field functionalities with high-efficiency bi-channel metasurfaces
Authors: Dai Changhong , Liu Tong , Wang Dongyi , Zhou Lei 
Published: April 2024

AbstractPropagating waves and surface waves are two distinct types of light-transporting modes, the free control of which are both highly desired in integration photonics. However, previously realized devices are bulky in sizes, inefficient, and/or can only achieve one type of light-manipulation functionality with a single device. Here, we propose a generic approach to design bi-channel meta-devices, constructed by carefully selected meta-atoms possessing reflection phases of both structural-resonance and geometric origins, which can exhibit two distinct light-manipulation functionalities in near-field (NF) and far-field (FF) channels, respectively. After characterizing the scattering properties of basic meta-atoms and briefly stating the theoretical strategy, we design/fabricate three different meta-devices and experimentally characterize their bi-channel wave-control functionalities in the telecom regime. Our experiments show that the first two devices can multiplex the generations of NF and FF optical vortices with different topological charges, while the third one exhibits anomalous surface plasmon polariton focusing in the NF and hologram formation in the FF simultaneously. Our results expand the wave-control functionalities of metasurfaces to all wave-transporting channels, which may inspire many exciting applications in integration optics.
Understanding PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling in squamous cell carcinoma: mutated PIK3CA as an example
Authors: Zheng Shutao , He Shuo , Liang Yan , Tan Yiyi , Liu Qing , Liu Tao , Lu Xiaomei 
Published: April 2024

AbstractCompared with those in adenocarcinoma, PIK3CA mutations are more common in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which arises from stratified squamous epithelia that are usually exposed to adverse environmental factors. Although hotspot mutations in exons 9 and 20 of PIK3CA, including E542K, E545K, H1047L and H1047R, are frequently encountered in the clinic, their clinicopathological meaning remains to be determined in the context of SCC. Considering that few reviews on PIK3CA mutations in SCC are available in the literature, we undertook this review to shed light on the clinical significance of PIK3CA mutations, mainly regarding the implications and ramifications of PIK3CA mutations in malignant cell behavior, prognosis, relapse or recurrence and chemo- or radioresistance of SCC. It should be noted that only those studies regarding SCC in which PIK3CA was mutated were cherry-picked, which fell within the scope of this review. However, the role of mutated PIK3CA in adenocarcinoma has not been discussed. In addition, mutations occurring in other main members of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway other than PIK3CA were also excluded.
Chronic pain healthcare workers’ challenges in pain management and receptiveness towards VR as an adjunct management tool: a qualitative study
Authors: Li Lydia Weiling , Yi Tan Hui , Khaing Nang Ei Ei 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Chronic pain is often a debilitating condition that affects individuals physically and mentally. Reliance on pharmacotherapy for pain management comes with risks of analgesic misuse and dependence. Hence, non-pharmacologic treatment plays a crucial role in pain management. Virtual reality is a novel method in chronic pain management. However, there is little understanding about healthcare providers’ perspectives on the use of virtual reality technology in managing chronic pain. This study aims to explore the current management challenges faced by chronic pain healthcare providers and their perspectives on using virtual reality as adjunctive therapy in managing chronic pain.

Method
Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted among all chronic pain healthcare providers in a tertiary hospital. The interviews were analysed using qualitative thematic analysis.

Results
Eight chronic pain healthcare providers participated in this study. Financial issues were cited as one of the biggest barriers to utilisation of non-pharmacological treatment. Participants highlighted the importance of psychosocial support from family and healthcare providers. Challenges identified included absence of patient engagement and lack of awareness about pain management among healthcare providers as well as the lack of an integrated multidisciplinary approach in our healthcare system. Participants were receptive towards the use of virtual reality in chronic pain management and offered ample opinions and suggestions for its application in chronic pain management.

Conclusions
A multilevel, multifaceted approach is needed to improve chronic pain management. Virtual reality technology could be considered as an adjunct therapy to address some of the challenges and limitations identified in this study.
Experience of violence and attitudes of staff members towards coercion in psychiatric settings: observational study
Authors: Wullschleger Alexandre , Chatton Anne , Kuenzi Noémie , Baeriswyl Rachel , Kaiser Stefan , Bartolomei Javier 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundAmong important dimensions related to the use of coercive measures, professionals’ attitude towards coercion is of particular interest. Little is known about how experiences of violence in the workplace might influence these attitudes.AimsThe present study aimed to investigate potential correlates of attitudes towards coercion, especially experiences of violence in the workplace.MethodMental health professionals were contacted through an online survey to assess their attitudes towards coercion using the Staff Attitude to Coercion Scale (SACS). The three subscales of the SACS (critical, pragmatic and positive attitudes) were analysed in a multivariate multiple linear regression, using a set of covariates including experiences of violence in the workplace. We hypothesised that experience of violence in the workplace would correlate with less critical attitudes of staff members towards coercion.ResultsA total of 423 professionals were included in the regression analysis. Age, professional category, feeling of insecurity, having witnessed or used coercion, and the emotional burden associated with coercive measures had a joint significant effect on the three SACS subscales. A feeling of insecurity, but not the experience of violence, was associated with a less critical, more positive appraisal of coercive measures. The emotional burden related to the use of coercion was associated with a more critical attitude.ConclusionsThe present results highlight the importance of considering staff members’ training and well-being regarding their feelings of insecurity when addressing attitudes towards coercion. The experience of patients should be integrated into staff training and coercion reduction programmes.
Utilization and Outcomes of Multigene Panel Testing in Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Klatte Derk C.F. , Starr Jason S. , Clift Kristin E. , Hardway Heather D. , van Hooft Jeanin E. , van Leerdam Monique E. , Potjer Thomas P. , Presutti R. John , Riegert-Johnson Douglas L. , Wallace Michael B. , Bi Yan 
Published: April 2024

PURPOSE Guidelines recommend germline genetic testing (GT) for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). This study aims to evaluate the utilization and outcomes of multigene panel GT in patients with PDAC. METHODS This retrospective, multisite study included patients with PDAC diagnosed between May 2018 and August 2020 at Mayo Clinic Arizona, Florida, and Minnesota. Discussion, uptake, and outcomes of GT were compared before (May 1, 2018-May 1, 2019) and after (August 1, 2019-August 1, 2020) the guideline update, accounting for a transition period. RESULTS The study identified 533 patients with PDAC, with 321 (60.2%) preguideline and 212 (39.8%) postguideline. Patient characteristics did not differ between the preguideline and postguideline periods. GT was discussed in 34.3% (110 of 321) of preguideline and 39.6% (84 of 212) of postguideline patients (odds ratio [OR], 1.26 [95% CI, 0.88 to 1.80]) and subsequently performed in 80.9% (89 of 110) of preguideline and 75.0% (63 of 84) of postguideline patients (OR, 1.10 [95% CI, 0.75 to 1.61]). Of 152 tested patients, 26 (17.1%) had a pathogenic variant (PV), of whom 17 (11.2%; 17 of 152) were PDAC-associated. Over the entire study period, GT was more likely in younger patients (65 v 70 years; P < .001), those seen by a medical oncologist (82.9% v 69.0%; P < .001), and those surviving more than 12 months from diagnosis (70.4% v 43.4%; P < .001). Demographics and personal/family cancer history were comparable between patients with and without a PDAC PV. CONCLUSION GT remains underutilized despite National Comprehensive Cancer Network guideline recommendations. Given the poor prognosis of PDAC and potential implications of GT, efforts to increase utilization are needed to provide surveillance and support to both patients with PDAC and at-risk family members.
The Impact of Physical Activity on Thyroid Health: Insights From Representative Data in Korea
Authors: Lee Jeongmin , Baek Han-Sang , Jo Kwanhoon , Kim Min-Hee , Lee Jung Min , Chang Sang Ah , Lim Dong-Jun 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Context
Thyroid hormones are essential for energy metabolism related to thermogenesis and oxygen consumption.

Objective
This study evaluated the potential association of thyroid function including thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) with physical activity in nationally representative data.

Design/Setting/Participants
This retrospective cohort study used data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2013 and 2015. Physical activity (PA) was assessed using metabolic equivalents based on the validated Korean version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form. PA level was categorized into 3 groups of high, moderate, and low. Participants with abnormal thyroid function test, restricted activity, or previous history of thyroid disease were excluded in the study.

Results
A total of 5372 participants was finally selected. The free T4 level was lowest in the low PA group, while TSH was not significantly different among the groups. TPOAb titers increased in the following order: moderate PA, low PA, and high PA. After adjustment for confounding factors, moderate PA was associated with a high T4 level and a decrease in TSH and TPOAb with significance. However, there were no significant changes in free T4, TSH, or TPOAb titer in the high PA group. In a subanalysis, females with moderate PA showed a significant decrease in TSH and TPOAb. In both males and females, insulin sensitivity was increased with moderate PA. In obese participants, TSH negatively correlated with PA, and free T4 levels decreased in the low PA. The sensitivity to thyroid hormone did not differ in our study.

Conclusion
The present study found an association between thyroid function and moderate PA. Therefore, moderate-intensity PA should be recommended to improve thyroid function.
Metformin-Associated Vitamin B12 Deficiency: An Underrecognized Complication
Authors: Thewjitcharoen Yotsapon , Chongvoranond Peachaphol , Nakasatien Soontaree , Krittiyawong Sirinate , Himathongkam Thep 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Metformin-associated vitamin B12 deficiency is a well-established side effect, especially in patients taking higher doses of metformin or who have existing risk factors. Severe deficiency causes a wide range of systemic disorders. Gait instability, which leads to frequent falling, is usually an underrecognized side effect. Older patients are more likely to develop chronic subdural hematoma even with minor trauma. We present a case of 84-year-old man with type 2 diabetes mellitus with acute-on-chronic subdural hematoma from frequent falls. Metformin therapy at dose of 1700 mg/day was given for more than 25 years. He had been in his usual state of health until 10 months ago when he began to have frequent fallings and fatigue. Physical examination in this admission revealed new-onset impaired vibratory sensation and proprioception in both feet and positive Romberg test. Subsequent evaluations demonstrated undetectable plasma vitamin B12 level and elevated plasma homocysteine. Improvement in neurological symptoms occurred within 1 week of vitamin B12 replacement and surgical hematoma evacuation. This case highlights the importance of awareness and periodic monitoring of vitamin B12 status among older patients taking metformin.
Caspase-resistant ROCK1 expression prolongs survival of Eµ-Myc B cell lymphoma mice
Authors: Mardilovich Katerina , Naylor Gregory , Julian Linda , Phinichkusolchit Narisa , Keeshan Karen , Blyth Karen , Olson Michael F. 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT
Apoptosis is characterized by membrane blebbing and apoptotic body formation. Caspase cleavage of ROCK1 generates an active fragment that promotes actin–myosin-mediated contraction and membrane blebbing during apoptosis. Expression of caspase-resistant non-cleavable ROCK1 (Rock1 NC) prolonged survival of mice that rapidly develop B cell lymphomas due to Eµ-Myc transgene expression. Eµ-Myc; Rock1 NC mice had significantly fewer bone marrow cells relative to those in Eµ-Myc mice expressing wild-type ROCK1 (Rock1 WT), which was associated with altered cell cycle profiles. Circulating macrophage numbers were lower in Eµ-Myc; Rock1 NC mice, but there were higher levels of bone marrow macrophages, consistent with spontaneous cell death in Eµ-Myc; Rock1 NC mouse bone marrows being more inflammatory. Rock1 WT recipient mice transplanted with pre-neoplastic Eµ-Myc; Rock1 NC bone marrow cells survived longer than mice transplanted with Eµ-Myc; Rock1 WT cells, indicating that the survival benefit was intrinsic to the Eµ-Myc; Rock1 NC bone marrow cells. The results suggest that the apoptotic death of Eµ-Myc; Rock1 NC cells generates a proliferation-suppressive microenvironment in bone marrows that reduces cell numbers and prolongs B cell lymphoma mouse survival.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of bone marrow-derived cell therapies on hind limb perfusion
Authors: van Rhijn-Brouwer Femke Christina Ching-Chuan , Wever Kimberley Elaine , Kiffen Romy , van Rhijn Jon-Ruben , Gremmels Hendrik , Fledderus Joost Ougust , Vernooij Robin Wilhelmus Maria , Verhaar Marianne Christina 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT
Preclinical and clinical studies on the administration of bone marrow-derived cells to restore perfusion show conflicting results. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on preclinical studies to assess the efficacy of bone marrow-derived cells in the hind limb ischemia model and identify possible determinants of therapeutic efficacy. In vivo animal studies were identified using a systematic search in PubMed and EMBASE on 10 January 2022. 85 studies were included for systematic review and meta-analysis. Study characteristics and outcome data on relative perfusion were extracted. The pooled mean difference was estimated using a random effects model. Risk of bias was assessed for all included studies. We found a significant increase in perfusion in the affected limb after administration of bone marrow-derived cells compared to that in the control groups. However, there was a high heterogeneity between studies, which could not be explained. There was a high degree of incomplete reporting across studies. We therefore conclude that the current quality of preclinical research is insufficient (low certainty level as per GRADE assessment) to identify specific factors that might improve human clinical trials.
Lwowscy zastawnicy w niewoli tureckiej, 1672-1679
Authors: Agopsowicz Monika 
Published: April 2024

LVIV HOSTAGES IN OTTOMAN CAPTIVITY, 1672-1679
After capturing Kamieniec Podolski [Kamianets-Podilskyi] in late August 1672, Ottoman army moved towards Lwów [Lviv] and started its siege in September. The condition for withdrawing from the siege was a ransom of eighty thousandtalers. Only five thousand was collected, and the missing amount was compensated by agreeing to hand over eleven hostages, including two Armenians. Later efforts resulted in the release of the Armenian hostages in 1676, while the remaining ones were released only in 1679. The author attempts to organize the topic of Lwów hostages, frequently mentioned in source materials but scattered and containing many contradictions, especially regarding their names and fate.
Trzydziestolecie stosunków między Rzeczpospolitą Polską a Republiką Armenii
Authors: Raczyński Zdzisław Aleksander 
Published: April 2024

THIRTY YEARS OF RELATIONS BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND AND THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA
The thirty years of diplomatic relations between Poland and Armenia represent a challenging and inspiring history of seeking a collaboration between states belonging to different political and military alliances, geographically and culturally distant, with significantly different potentials.