bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary description of a lateMiddle Pleistocenemammalian fauna prior to the extinction ofGigantopithecus blackifrom theYixiantian Cave, Guangxi ZAR, South China
Authors: Pan Yue , Zhang Yingqi , Yang Liyun , Takai Masanaru , Harrison Terry , Westaway Kira , Jin Changzhu
Published: July 2023

In recent years, nearly 20 cave sites with rich assemblages of mammalian fossils have been found and excavated in the Chongzuo area, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Their ages are distributed throughout the entire Pleistocene Epoch. These discoveries have greatly facilitated our understanding of the evolution of theStegodon‐Ailuropodafauna and the environmental context of human evolution in southern China. Here, we present a preliminary report on a diverse late Middle Pleistocene mammalian fauna from the Yixiantian Cave in southern China, which is a typical representative of theStegodon‐Ailuropodafauna (sensu lato). The fossil mammals are represented by isolated dental remains only. In 2010 and 2011, two seasons of systematic excavations at the Yixiantian Cave yielded a total of 4,958 identifiable mammalian teeth. They were identified as belonging to 37 species and 6 orders of mammals. In addition, the tooth type of all the teeth representing each species was also determined where possible. A single fragmentary molar was identified as belonging toGigantopithecus blacki, indicating that its population had declined sharply at this time and was on the brink of extinction. Description of the Yixiantian fauna will not only help better characterize the composition of theStegodon‐Ailuropodafauna during the late Middle Pleistocene, but also clarify our understanding of the paleoenvironmental context at a time just prior to the extinction ofG. blacki.
Dinuclear Zinc‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Desymmetrization of Cyclopentendiones: Access to Functional Cyclopentanediones Bearing an All‐carbon Quaternary Stereocenter
Authors: Du Si‐Si , Zhai Ying‐Hui , Zhang Cui , Wang Min‐Can , Jia Shi‐Kun , Mei Guang‐Jian , Hua Yuan‐Zhao
Published: August 2023

The success in the identification of the two enantioisomeric surfaces of electrophiles by dinuclear zinc catalysts is disclosed. This protocol realizes a dinuclear zinc‐cocatalyzed desymmetrization of cyclopentendiones using α‐hydroxy aryl ketones as nucleophiles through Michael addition reaction. Under mild conditions, a series of functional cyclopentanediones bearing multiple stereogenic centers including an all‐carbon quaternary stereocenter, were obtained in moderate to good yields with excellent stereoselectivities.
Irinotecan‐induced gastrointestinal damage alters the expression of peptide transporter 1 and absorption of cephalexin in rats
Authors: Imaoka Ayuko , Hattori Tomoki , Akiyoshi Takeshi , Ohtani Hisakazu
Published: July 2023

Irinotecan causes severe gastrointestinal damage, which may affect the expression of intestinal transporters. However, neither the expression of peptide transporter 1 (Pept1) nor the pharmacokinetics of Pept1 substrate drugs has been investigated under irinotecan‐induced gastrointestinal damage. Therefore, the present study quantitatively investigated the effects of irinotecan‐induced gastrointestinal damage on the intestinal expression of Pept1 and absorption of cephalexin (CEX), a typical Pept1 substrate, in rats. Irinotecan was administered intravenously to rats for 4 days to induce gastrointestinal damage. The expression of Pept1 mRNA and the Pept1 protein in the upper, middle, and lower segments of the small intestine of irinotecan‐treated rats was assessed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blotting, respectively. The pharmacokinetic profile of CEX was examined after its oral or intravenous administration (10 mg/kg). In irinotecan‐treated rats, ∼2‐fold increases in Pept1 protein levels were observed in all three segments, whereas mRNA levels remained unchanged. The oral bioavailability of CEX significantly decreased to 76% of that in control rats. The decrease in passive diffusion caused by intestinal damage may have overcome the increase in Pept1‐mediated uptake. In conclusion, irinotecan may decrease the intestinal absorption of Pept1 substrate drugs; however, it increased the expression of intestinal Pept1.
The outcome and complications of modern staged repair surgery in newborns with classic bladder exstrophy in different genders: A retrospective study
Authors: Esmaeilizadeh Amin Haj , Ebrahimisaraj Gholamreza , Sarafi Mehdi , Rouzrokh Mohsen , Mohajerzadeh Leily , Ghoroubi Javad , Tabari Ahmad Khaleghnejad , Ebrahimian Manoochehr
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Classic bladder exstrophy (CBE) is a rare anterior midline birth defect that remains a challenge for pediatric surgeons. Despite multiple reconstructive methods, outcomes vary widely in various reports. This study aims to compare the success rate and complications of modern staged repair of exstrophy (MSRE) in each gender and compare together.

Methods

This retrospective cross‐sectional study included cases of CBE between 2010 and 2020 that underwent MSRE. Short‐term follow‐up results, including incontinence rate, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), urinary infections, deformed genitalia, and so on, were measured in each gender, and their differences were reported.

Results

Among the 40 newborns with CBE who underwent MSRE, 25 (62.5%) were boys, while the others had non‐male genitalia. The rates of incontinence, VUR, dehiscence, and fistulas did not differ significantly between genders. However, chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) were more frequent in girls, and boys were more likely to have malformed genitalia (p < .05).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate a similar rate of complications in each gender. However, chronic UTIs and external genitalia deformities were significantly more common in girls and boys, respectively. Further large‐sized controlled trials may be needed to corroborate these findings.
Functional analyses conducted via telehealth with caregivers as primary therapists
Authors: Farros Jesslyn N. , Legaspi David , Wallace Michele
Published: August 2023

Conducting efficient and accurate assessments prior to developing a treatment to eliminate problem behavior is necessary. When surveyed, most clinicians report functional analyses (FAs) to be the most informative in determining the function of problem behaviors when compared to descriptive and indirect methods. However, they also report not conducting FAs as a standard practice. Several barriers are reported, such as lack of time and lack of space. Most FA are designed to be conducted in‐person; however, some have utilized a telehealth service delivery model to conduct such assessments. The current study sought to extend the current telehealth FA literature and address the two most reported barriers by using a video conferencing with caregivers as the primary therapists to determine the function of problem behavior. The function of problem behavior was determined across both participants. Benefits, barriers, and future direction of utilizing such an approach are discussed.
Motivating children with feeding disorders to self‐feed: An evaluation of using differential reinforcement and manipulation of establishing operations to increase self‐feeding
Authors: Hansen Bethany A. , Phipps Laura E. , Drayton Amy K. , Demchuk Nicole C. , Knight Rachel M. , Elson Lindsey A.
Published: August 2023

Self‐feeding is a behavioral cusp vital to independence, growth, and development. Previous studies demonstrate that interventions like escape extinction in the form of physical guidance are effective at increasing self‐feeding in children with feeding disorders. However, these interventions may not be effective for all children. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of a treatment package that involved increasing the quality of feeder attention and access to tangibles to decrease the comparative value of escape from the self‐feeding demand for two children with feeding disorders using a nonconcurrent multiple baseline design. Despite demonstrating the skills to self‐feed preferred foods and consume target foods, neither child self‐fed target foods independently. Following differential reinforcement with the manipulation of establishing operations, both children demonstrated improvement in self‐feeding bites of target foods. In addition, caregivers were trained to implement the protocol with high procedural integrity.
Chemical Constituents and Biological Activities of Piper as Anticancer Agents: A Review
Authors: Woon Choy Ker , Ahmad Fasihuddin Badruddin , Zamakshshari Nor Hisam
Published: July 2023

Cancer has become the primary cause of death worldwide, and anticancer drugs are used to combat this disease. Synthesis of anticancer drugs has limited success due to adverse side effects has made compounds from natural products with minimal toxicity gain much popularity. Piper species are known to have a biological effect on human health. The biological activity is due to Piper species rich with active secondary metabolites that can combat most diseases, including cancer. This review will discuss the phytochemistry of Piper species and their anticancer activity. The identification and characterization of ten active metabolites isolated from Piper species were discussed in detail and their anticancer mechanism. These metabolites were mainly found could inhibit anticancer through caspase and P38/JNK pathways. The findings discussed in this review support the therapeutic potential of Piper species against cancer due to their rich source of active metabolites with demonstrated anticancer activity.
N‐terminal LysSN‐His‐tag improves the production of intracellular recombinant protein in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Le Ngan Thi Phuong , Phan Trang Thi Phuong , Truong Tuom Thi Tinh , Schumann Wolfgang , Nguyen Hoang Duc
Published: July 2023

Choosing fusion tags to enhance the recombinant protein levels in the cytoplasm of Bacillus subtilis has been limited. Our previous study demonstrated that His‐tag at the N‐terminus could increase the expression levels of the low‐expression gene egfp, while significantly reducing the high‐expression genes gfp+ and bgaB in the cytoplasm of B. subtilis. In this study, we aimed to prove the potential of a fusion tag, the combination of the N‐terminal domain of B. subtilis lysyl tRNA synthetase (LysSN) and His‐tag with varying numbers of histidine (6xHis, 8xHis, 10xHis) by investigating their effects on the expression levels of egfp, gfp+ and bgaB in B. subtilis. For the low‐expression gene, LysSN‐xHis‐tag could enhance the fluorescent intensity of EGFP 23.5 times higher than EGFP without a fusion tag, and 1.5 times higher than that fused with only His‐tag. For high‐expression genes, the expression level of BgaB and GFP+ was 2.9 and 12.5 times higher than that of His‐tag, respectively. The number of histidines in LysSN‐xHis‐tag did not influence the expression levels of the high‐expression genes but affected the expression levels of the low‐expression gene.
Selection of principal variables through a modified Gram–Schmidt process with and without supervision
Authors: Skogholt Joakim , Liland Kristian H. , Næs Tormod , Smilde Age K. , Indahl Ulf G.
Published: July 2023

In various situations requiring empirical model building from highly multivariate measurements, modelling based on partial least squares regression (PLSR) may often provide efficient low‐dimensional model solutions. In unsupervised situations, the same may be true for principal component analysis (PCA). In both cases, however, it is also of interest to identify subsets of the measured variables useful for obtaining sparser but still comparable models without significant loss of information and performance. In the present paper, we propose a voting approach for sparse overall maximisation of variance analogous to PCA and a similar alternative for deriving sparse regression models influenced closely related to the PLSR method. Both cases yield pivoting strategies for a modified Gram–Schmidt process and its corresponding (partial) QR‐factorisation of the underlying data matrix to manage the variable selection process. The proposed methods include score and loading plot possibilities that are acknowledged for providing efficient interpretations of the related PCA and PLS models in chemometric applications.
Platinum(IV)–Gold(I) Agents with Promising Anticancer Activity: Selected Studies in 2D and 3D Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Models
Authors: López‐Hernández Javier E. , Nayeem Nazia , Cerón‐Carrasco José P. , Ahad Afruja , Hafeez Aiman , León Ignacio E. , Contel Maria
Published: July 2023

New heterometallic binuclear and trinuclear platinum(IV)–gold(I) compounds of the type [Pt(L)nCl2(OH){(OOC‐4‐C6H4‐PPh2)AuCl}x] (L=NH3, n=2; x=1, 2; L=diaminocyclohexane, DACH, n=1; x=2) are described. These compounds are cytotoxic and selective against a small panel of renal, bladder, ovarian, and breast cancer cell lines. We selected a trinuclear PtAu2 compound containing the PtIV core based on oxaliplatin, to further investigate its cell‐death pathway, cell and organelle uptake and anticancer effects against the triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) MDA‐MB‐231 cell line. This compound induces apoptosis and accumulates mainly in the nucleus and mitochondria. It also exerts remarkable antimigratory and antiangiogenic properties, and has a potent cytotoxic effect against TNBC 3D spheroids. Trinuclear compounds do not seem to display relevant interactions with calf thymus (CT) DNA and plasmid (pBR322) even in the presence of reducing agents, but inhibit pro‐angiogenic enzyme thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) in TNBC cells.
Dual Chalcogen‐Bonding Interactions for the Conformational Control of Urea**
Authors: Inoue Takumi , Ota Moe , Amijima Yui , Takahashi Haru , Hamada Shohei , Nakamura Seikou , Kobayashi Yusuke , Sasamori Takahiro , Furuta Takumi
Published: July 2023

Dual chalcogen‐bonding interactions is proposed as a novel means for the conformational control of urea derivatives. The formation of a chalcogen‐bonding interaction at both sides of the urea carbonyl group was unambiguously confirmed by X‐ray diffraction as well as computational studies including non‐covalent interaction (NCI) plot index analysis, quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analysis, and natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis via DFT calculations. By virtue of this dual interaction, urea derivatives that bear chalcogen atoms (X=S and Se) adopt a planar structure via the carbonyl oxygen (O) with an X⋅⋅⋅O⋅⋅⋅X arrangement on the same side of the molecule. The rigidity of the conformational lock was evaluated using the molecular arrangement in the crystal and the rotational barrier of benzochalcogenophene ring, which indicated a stronger conformational lock in benzoselenophene than in benzothiophene urea derivatives. Furthermore, the acidity of the urea derivatives increases according to the Lewis‐acidic properties of the chalcogen‐bonding interactions, whereby benzoselenophene urea is more acidic than benzothiophene urea. Tweezer‐shaped urea derivatives were prepared, and their stereostructure proved the viability of the conformational control for defining the location of the substituents on the urea framework.
Anaphylaxis management in a French pediatric emergency department: Lessons from the ANA‐PED study
Authors: Clark Evangéline , Kase Tanno Luciana , Vo Tram , Blanc Brigitte , Demoly Pascal , Caimmi Davide
Published: August 2023

Background

Anaphylaxis is a serious systemic hypersensitivity reaction that requires immediate recognition and prompt administration of epinephrine/adrenaline. The present study aimed to assess the appropriateness of epinephrine/adrenaline use in children identified as allergic by physicians in the emergency department (ED) at the time of the reaction, and to identify factors that are possibly associated with epinephrine/adrenaline administration, auto‐injector prescription, and further referral to an allergist.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cross‐sectional study at the pediatric ED of the University Hospital of Montpellier, France. We included all consecutive children who attended the ED between 2016 and 2020 with an allergy‐related diagnosis at discharge.

Results

We included 1056 allergy‐related visits, including 224 (21.2%) with a diagnosis of anaphylaxis at discharge; only 17.0% of them received an epinephrine/adrenaline injection, and 57.1% consulted an allergist after the acute episode. An auto‐injector was prescribed to 63 (28.1%) patients at discharge from the ED. Besides the severity of the clinical presentation, factors associated with a guidelines‐based management of the anaphylactic reaction and with an increased administration rate of epinephrine/adrenaline included presence of asthma symptoms and presence of extended skin reactions.

Conclusions

Our study underlines persistent gaps in the management of pediatric anaphylaxis in ED, focusing on hereby identified levers. By disseminating current knowledge and guidelines on anaphylaxis and allergies, specialists could work together with emergency physicians to establish effective management algorithms and improve anaphylaxis management and care pathways for children experiencing allergic reactions, especially anaphylaxis.

Trail Registration

Clinical Trials, number NCT05112367.
{111}‐ Faceted Silver Nanoplates: An Automated and Customized Design for Functionality
Authors: Pistonesi Denise B. , Belén Federico , Centurion María E. , Sica María G. , Ruso Juan M. , Messina Paula V.
Published: August 2023

Silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) exhibit the highest efficiency of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) excitation that can be tuned to any wave length in the visible spectrum. Its performance depends to a large extent on its physicochemical characteristics such as size and shape; which, in turn, can be modulated by the selective growth of their crystalline facets. We used a simple direct chemical reduction method with a precise manipulation of seed‐mediated growth control through an automated single‐phase continuous flow‐batch system to induce customized geometries on Ag‐NPs. Optimization of the experimental design was carried out from a multivariate analysis, where the height/width ratio of LSPR band was used as response signal. Proposed methodology controls the critical steps in the synthesis of Ag‐NPs that modulate their morphology to attain customized surface plasmon resonance in an interval of 380 nm (spherical‐shaped nanoparticles) to 925 nm ({111}‐ faceted prism‐shaped nanoplates) absorptions, leading to a versatile platform to extend their potential applications. Although the present work focused on silver nanoparticles, we believe that this methodology can be extended to any free‐electron metals.
Concentration–QTc Relationship from a Single Ascending Dose Study of ANAVEX3‐71, a Novel Sigma‐1 Receptor and Allosteric M1 Muscarinic Receptor Agonist in Development for the Treatment of Frontotemporal Dementia, Schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Fadiran Emmanuel O. , Hammond Edward , Tran James , Xue Hongqi , Chen Janell , Kaufmann Walter E. , Missling Christopher U. , Darpo Borje
Published: July 2023

This is the cardiodynamic evaluation of a single ascending dose study in healthy participants with the primary objective of assessing the effect of ANAVEX3‐71, formerly AF710B, on ECG parameters. Twelve‐lead ECGs were obtained at 3 time points within 1 hour prior to dosing to establish a baseline and then serially postdose. Concentration–QTc analysis of plasma concentrations of ANAVEX3‐71 and metabolite M8 was conducted. ANAVEX3‐71 at the studied doses did not have a clinically relevant effect on heart rate or on the PR and QRS intervals. ANAVEX3‐71 alone was retained in the primary model due to small fit differences between models which included the metabolite M8. The estimated population slope of the concentration–QTcF relationship was small and slightly negative: −0.017 ms per µg/L, with a small treatment effect‐specific intercept of −0.49 ms. An effect on the placebo‐corrected, change‐from‐baseline QTc exceeding 10 ms can be excluded within the full observed ranges of plasma concentrations of ANAVEX3‐71 and M8 up to ∼996 and ∼58 µg/L, respectively. The results from this cardiodynamic evaluation demonstrated that ANAVEX3‐71 at single ascending doses of 5‐200 mg had no clinically relevant effects on any of the studied ECG parameters.
Inclusion Complexes of a Metastable‐State Photoacid with High Acidity and Chemical Stability
Authors: Yuan Ya‐Nan , Yan Gao‐Jie , Wang Zi‐Xuan , Song Yao‐Yao , Wang Zhao‐Yang , Wang Qing‐Lun , Yang Chun , Liao Yi
Published: July 2023

Metastable‐state merocyanine photoacids (MCHs) have been widely applied to various chemical, material and biomedical areas to drive or control chemical processes with light. In this work, stoichiometry and association constants have been determined for inclusion complexes of a photoacid MCH1 ((E)‐3‐(2‐(2‐hydroxystyryl)‐3,3‐dimethyl‐3H‐indol‐1‐ium‐1‐yl)propane‐1‐sulfonate) with β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD), 2‐hydroxypropyl‐β‐CD (HP‐β‐CD), γ‐CD and HP‐γ‐CD by means of UV‐Vis absorption spectroscopic titrations. The inclusion complexes were studied to enhance acidity and chemical stability. Kinetic study showed that CDs stabilized the acidic metastable state and slowed its thermal relaxation. The acidity of the ground and metastable state (pKaGS and pKaMS) increased upon addition of CDs. The pKaMS of [MCH1 ⋅ (γ‐CD)2] is as low as 0.92 in comparison with 2.24 for MCH1, which is close to the lowest pKaMS values (1.20 and 1.03) reported previously, in which case the MCH1 was structurally modified with alkylammonium side chains. Addition of CDs also significantly enhanced the chemical stability of MCH1 against hydrolysis, which is one of the major concerns for the application of MCHs. In particular, the addition of HP‐β‐CD increased the half‐life of MCH1 in aqueous solution more than four‐fold. Moreover, the quantum chemical calculations confirmed the stoichiometry and analyzed the binding sites and hydrogen bonds of the inclusion complexes.
The influence of radio frequency‐based toothbrush on the accumulation of calculus and periodontal health: A randomized double‐blind controlled prospective study
Authors: Khoury Juan , Giladi Hadar Z. , Ginesin Ofir , Gabay Eran , Mayer Yaniv
Published: July 2023

Objectives

The use of a toothbrush with radio frequency (RF) has shown to be of benefit regarding the reduction of plaque, calculus, and dental staining and improving teeth shade compared to conventional powered and manual toothbrushes. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of the RF toothbrush in the reduction of calculus accumulation and its effect on periodontal parameters as well as subject satisfaction as compared to an identical sham‐tooth brush.

Materials and Methods

Patients who are under a strict maintenance program were included. Patients were allocated to test (RF toothbrush) or control (sham) randomly and were examined at baseline, one and three months. Clinical photos were taken and a consequential calculus assessment via ImageJ software. Clinical assessment included the following: plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), and recession (REC). Patient satisfaction was assessed via a questionnaire.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients (29 control, 29 test) were included. At baseline mean PPD, BOP, PI, REC, and calculus accumulation were similar between the groups. Mean buccal calculus was lower in the test group at one month 4.0% versus 6.7%, p < .05. Calculus accumulation within the groups was lower in the test group at 1 and 3 months when compared to baseline at the buccal aspect (2.8% vs. 8.9%, p < .05% and 3.8% vs. 8.9%, p < .05) and lingual aspect (6.7% vs. 16.5%, p < .05% and 8.9% vs. 16.5%, p < .05). No statistically significant results were found regarding periodontal parameters PPD, BOP, PI, and REC. No difference was found between groups regarding patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

RF seems to have an additive effect on preventing calculus accumulation on the buccal aspect of anterior mandibular teeth at 1 month. Nevertheless, at 3 months, no difference between the toothbrushes is seen regarding calculus formation and maintaining periodontal health (ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier NCT04640857).
Recycling Graphite from Spent Lithium Batteries for Efficient Solar‐Driven Interfacial Evaporation to Obtain Clean Water
Authors: Han Sheng‐Jie , Xu Lei , Liu Pan , Wu Jia‐Li , Labiadh Lazhar , Fu Ming‐Lai , Yuan Baoling
Published: August 2023

Solar‐driven interfacial evaporation technology is regarded as an attracting sustainable strategy for obtaining portable water from seawater and wastewater, and the recycle of waste materials to fabricate efficient photothermal materials as evaporator to efficiently utilize solar energy is very critical, but still difficult. To this purpose, graphite recovered from spent lithium‐ion batteries (SLIBs) was realized using a simple acid leaching method, and a reconstructed graphite‐based porous hydrogel (RG‐PH) was subsequently fabricated by crosslinking foaming method. The incorporation of reconstructed graphite (RG) improves the mechanical characteristics of hydrogels and the light absorption performance significantly. The evaporation rate of optimized RG‐PH can constantly reach 3.4278 kg m−2 h−1 for desalination under a one solar irradiation, and it also showed the excellent salt resistance in various salty water. Moreover, RG‐PH has a strong elimination of a variety of organic contaminants in wastewater, including the typical volatile organic compound of phenol. This research shows the potential application of flexible and durable solar evaporators made from waste materials in purifying seawater and wastewater, not only contributing to carbon neutrality by recycling graphite from SLIBs, but also ensuring the cost‐effectiveness harvest of solar energy for constantly obtaining clean water.
Normal‐weight central obesity and risk of cardiovascular and microvascular events in adults with prediabetes or diabetes: Chinese and British cohorts
Authors: Zhong Pingting , Tan Shaoying , Zhu Zhuoting , Zhu Ziyu , Liang Yi , Huang Wenyong , Wang Wei
Published: August 2023

Objective

To investigate the relationship between body fat distribution and risk of cardiometabolic and microvascular events among individuals with prediabetes or diabetes with normal body mass index (BMI).

Methods

A total of 17,232 participants with prediabetes or diabetes from UK Biobank (UKB) with 12‐year follow‐up and 499 diabetic participants from China with 2‐year follow‐up with normal BMI were included. Anthropometric measurements of waist circumference (WC), waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR), and body fat composition assessment of trunk‐to‐leg fat ratio (TLFR) were obtained. Outcomes included incident all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality and macrovascular and microvascular diseases.

Results

In British cohort, participants with central obesity defined by WHR had 27%–54% higher risk of incident all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 1.42, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.23–1.64), cardiovascular mortality (HR 1.54 [1.15–2.07]), myocardial infarction (HR = 1.43 [1.15, 1.78]), stroke (HR 1.26 [0.90, 1.75]), heart failure (HR = 1.27 [1.00, 1.61]), diabetic nephropathy (HR 1.33 [1.07, 1.65]), and diabetic retinopathy (DR) (HR = 1.48 [1.12, 1.96]) than those without obesity. Central obesity defined by WC and WHtR was associated with 40%–44% and 23%–98% higher risks of developing diabetic events, respectively. In the Chinese cohort, individuals with abdominal obesity, defined by WC (HR 1.44) or WHtR (HR 1.43) but not by WHR, carried more than 40% higher risk of developing DR than those without it. Higher TLFR carried 1.30–2.85 times higher risk of CVD and microvascular diseases among the dysglycemic population.

Conclusions

Body fat distribution diseases among individuals with prediabetes or diabetes are associated with an increased risk of cardiometabolic and microvascular diseases independent of BMI.
The complementarity of phosphatidylethanol in whole blood and ethyl glucuronide in hair as biomarkers for the monitoring of alcohol use
Authors: Dumitrascu Catalina , Gys Celine , Wille Sarah M. R. , del Mar Ramiréz‐Fernandéz Maria , D'Hondt Diona , Van Goethem Alexia , Van Rafelghem Babette , Baetens Eline , Jacobs Werner , Neels Hugo , Covaci Adrian , van Nuijs Alexander L. N.
Published: July 2023

Monitoring long‐term alcohol use and/or abstinence is essential in clinical and medico‐legal cases. Analysis of ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in hair provides information on alcohol consumption over several months. However, there is a lag time between ethanol consumption, incorporation of EtG in the hair bulb and hair growing out of the scalp. Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) 16:0/18:1 analysis in whole blood has a detection window of 2–4 weeks, allowing for the detection of recent alcohol consumption. In this study, 2340 paired samples (of hair and venous whole blood from 1170 individuals) were analysed for EtG in hair (hEtG) and PEth 16:0/18:1 in venous whole blood. PEth 16:0/18:1 and hEtG results were subdivided into three categories according to the consensus of SoHT (hEtG) and PEth‐NET (PEth): abstinence/low, moderate or excessive alcohol consumption. For hEtG analysis, 446 individuals presented abstinence/low alcohol consumption, of which 2% were classified as excessive alcohol users through PEth 16:0/18:1 analysis. This suggests excessive alcohol consumption in the weeks before sample collection. Out of 483 individuals classified as heavy alcohol users based on hEtG analysis, 14% showed abstinence/low alcohol consumption for PEth 16:0/18:1 analysis, implying that these subjects stopped drinking 2–4 weeks before sample collection. Our results show that the analysis of the two different biomarkers can lead to a more accurate categorisation of individuals. Therefore, we emphasize that for the retrospective investigation of alcohol use, it is necessary to include two alcohol use biomarkers with different detection windows.
Acceptability and perceived harm of calorie labeling and other obesity policies: A cross‐sectional survey study of UK adults with eating disorders and other mental health conditions
Authors: Putra I Gusti Ngurah Edi , Polden Megan , Wareing Lettie , Robinson Eric
Published: July 2023

Objective

We assessed perceptions of recently proposed UK obesity policies (mandatory calorie labeling, banning of advertisements of unhealthy food and drinks online and before 9 pm on TV, and banning “buy one get one free” deals for unhealthy food and drinks) in people with an eating disorder (ED) and other mental health conditions.

Method

A total of 1273 participants with a self‐reported lifetime mental health condition (N = 583 with an ED) completed an online survey in September–November 2022. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine support for and potential adverse effects of policies in participants with and without an ED. A qualitative analysis of the potential effects of the policy on current ED symptoms was also conducted to better understand how and why policies may be damaging or beneficial.

Results

Participants with an ED had a lower level of support for the implementation of the calorie labeling policy compared to those without an ED (43% vs. 58%). Half of the participants with an ED (55%) reported that labeling may worsen their ED symptoms. Qualitative data indicated perceived potential harm (e.g., a gateway to relapse, negative effects on mood) and perceived benefits (e.g., feeling informed and reassured) of calorie labeling in participants with an ED. No differences in support or perceived harms of the other two policies were observed between participants with versus without an ED.

Discussion

Future studies are warranted to explore the potential effects of calorie labeling and how to mitigate negative impacts on people with an ED.

Public Significance

This research is the first to assess the perceptions of UK obesity‐related policies in people with an ED and other mental health conditions. Participants with an ED (vs. without) were more likely to disagree with the government implementing the calorie labeling policy. These findings highlight the potentially harmful effects of calorie labeling in people with an ED and the need for future research to understand how to mitigate negative impacts.
Adaptive responses and transgenerational plasticity of a submerged plant to benthivorous fish disturbance
Authors: Li Fuchao , Zuo Zhenjun , Zhao Haocun , Yu Weicheng , Yu Haihao , Yu Dan , Liu Chunhua
Published: August 2023

Submerged macrophytes play a key role in the restoration of shallow eutrophic lakes. However, in some subtropical lakes, benthivorous fishes dominate the fish assemblages and influence the growth of submerged plants. A comprehensive understanding of the direct and indirect effects of benthivorous fishes on submerged plants is important. We conducted mesocosm experiments to examine the effects of three densities of benthivorous fish, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus, on the water properties, the growth, asexual reproduction, and the germination of turions of Potamogeton crispus L. Our results showed that fish disturbance increased TN, TP, PO4–P, NH4–N, and NO3–N of the water, raising the extinction coefficient K, Chl a, and the periphyton biomass. Benthivorous fish disturbance reduced the total biomass, root length, relative growth rate (RGR), and branching number while increasing the plant height of P. crispus. The P stoichiometric homeostasis coefficient (HP) (except turions) and HN was lower in plant tissues due to fish disturbance. Benthivorous fish disturbances promoted turions formation (e.g., increased turions total numbers and biomass) of P. crispus. Moreover, P. crispus exhibited transgenerational plasticity for benthivorous fish affecting turion emergence. The maximum final germination rate occurred only when fish density in the mother plant grow experiment matched that in the turion germination experiment. Turions generated by P. crispus disturbed by low‐density fish exhibited increased germination rates. Our findings suggest that controlling benthivorous fish reduces its indirect and direct effects on submerged vegetation, facilitating the successful restoration of these plants.
Synthesis of Flavones through NaI‐Mediated Electrochemical Cyclization of Chalcones
Authors: Gulchatchai Taweesak , Thanh Huynh Thao Nguyen , Vijara Natthanan , Khotavivattana Tanatorn , Sukwattanasinitt Mongkol , Wacharasindhu Sumrit
Published: August 2023

A mild electrochemical oxidative cyclization for the synthesis of flavones from easy‐access 2’‐hydroxychalcones was developed using an inexpensive NaI as mediator and electrolyte under ambient temperature in a mixture of EtOH and H2O as solvent. This method was successfully applied to synthesize 26 examples of flavones from a variety of functionalized 2’‐hydroxychalcones. A gram‐scale formal synthesis of bioactive scutellarein was successfully demonstrated. Control experiments were conducted to disclose a possible indirect oxidation via in situ generation of iodine. The main advantages of this reaction include its broad substrate scope, scalability, ability to operate with benign solvent, and no requirement for strong oxidizing agents and external additives.
Analytical solutions for the sliding displacement of model slopes simulating both the frictional and rotational effects under piecewise linear acceleration pulses
Authors: Stamatopoulos Constantine A. , Protopapas Angelos L.
Published: August 2023

Simplified methods predicting earthquake‐induced displacement of slopes are based on the Newmark sliding‐block model. This model does not consider the decrease in inclination of the sliding mass as a result of its downward motion and this effect is usually modeled by improving the above model by assuming that the critical acceleration value for relative motion of the block increases linearly with the distance moved. This work, for the first time, derives analytical solutions predicting the sliding displacement under idealized acceleration pulses of the model described above simulating both the frictional and rotational effects. First, a general solution is derived in dimensionless form for the motion of the sliding mass under a piecewise linearly varying pulse for the cases of both static stability and instability. The solution is obtained in each interval by (a) solving for the displacement and velocity in terms of these quantities at the end of the previous interval, (b) estimating the time corresponding to a sliding velocity equal to zero, and (c) investigating if the estimated time solution is consistent with the time interval and thus if it can be considered as the global solution. Then, based on this solution and the conditions where downward and upward motion starts, a procedure predicting the final displacement of the sliding mass for a piecewise linearly varying pulse is proposed. Finally, analytical solutions are derived, given in graphical form, partly validated, and discussed for the particular cases of half and full cycle pulses of rectangular, triangular, and trapezoidal shapes.
New insights into site‐specific N‐glycosylation profiling differences of serum proteomes between colostrum and mature breast milk
Authors: Guan Boyuan , Liu Donghong , Cao Xueyan , Zhang Zhenghan , Bai Xue , Zhao Shanshan , Luo Xue , Feng Daguang , Yang Liu , Yue Xiqing , Liu Xiaoyu
Published: July 2023

N‐glycosylation has important implications for the physicochemical properties and biochemical activity of breast milk proteins. However, an in‐depth characterization of site‐specific N‐glycans in breast milk serum proteins is lacking. In this study, 875 site‐specific N‐glycans attached to 114 serum glycoproteins from breast colostrum (BC) and 427 site‐specific N‐glycans attached to 60 serum glycoproteins from breast mature milk (BM) were identified and quantified using label‐free site‐specific glycoproteomics. Among them, 24 site‐specific N‐glycans mapping to 11 N‐glycosites on 9 glycoproteins were significantly increased, and 76 site‐specific N‐glycans mapping to 19 N‐glycosites on 13 glycoproteins were significantly decreased. Gene ontology annotation analysis showed that BC and BM serum N‐glycoproteins were mainly enriched in complement activation, classical pathway, extracellular exosome part, and immunoglobulin receptor binding. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis revealed that BC and BM serum N‐glycoproteins were mainly involved in the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway. Additionally, breast milk serum N‐glycoproteins carried fucosylated core structures as well as Lewis and sialylated branch structures that may contribute to neonatal retinal homeostasis. These results provide a molecular basis for understanding the unique biological activities of breast milk serum N‐glycoproteins.
Knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacists regarding dementia: A nationwide cross‐sectional study in Vietnam
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Huong Thi , Dinh Dai Xuan
Published: August 2023

Objective

To investigate Vietnamese community pharmacists' knowledge and attitudes towards dementia.

Methods

1066 community pharmacists in eight provinces/centrally‐governed cities were recruited using a non‐probability convenience sampling technique. Their dementia knowledge was measured using a set of 14 questions developed through a literature review. The Approaches to Dementia Questionnaire was used to assess pharmacists' attitudes towards dementia. Cronbach's alpha was 0.88 for the overall questionnaire (0.70 for the knowledge part and 0.81 for the attitude part).

Results

Participants were mostly female (74.2%), 20–39 years old (79.1%), and had work experience in pharmacies of less than 10 years (77.0%). Medicines for dementia were available in only 40 community pharmacies (3.8%), including galantamine (3.0%) and donepezil (0.8%). Pharmacists' average knowledge and attitude scores were 8.03 ± 2.61 and 64.81 ± 7.34, respectively. There were considerable differences in pharmacists' knowledge and attitudes between rural and urban areas and among eight provinces (p < 0.001). Higher knowledge and attitude scores were found among those with higher education levels and longer work experience (p < 0.001). Using reliable sources to seek information on dementia, such as books and scientific articles, also helped pharmacists to have better knowledge and more positive attitudes (p < 0.001). There was a positive relationship between knowledge and attitude scores (r = 0.326,p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Community pharmacists demonstrated moderate levels of knowledge and attitudes towards dementia. Their knowledge about the symptoms of dementia was inadequate. Educational interventions and training programs are urgently needed to enhance their dementia knowledge and attitudes.
Mortality inequality, spatial differences and health care access
Authors: Atalay Kadir , Edwards Rebecca , Georgiakakis Fiona
Published: July 2023

Although Australia maintains relatively high standards of health and healthcare, there exists disparity in health outcomes and longevity among different segments of the population. Internationally, there is growing evidence that life expectancy gains are not being shared equally among the rich and the poor. In this paper we examine the evolution of mortality inequality in Australia between 2001 and 2018. Using a spatial inequality model and combining data from several administrative data sources, we document significant mortality inequality between the rich and the poor in Australia. For most age groups, mortality inequality has remained unchanged over the last 20 years. However, mortality inequality is increasing for middle‐aged men and women. In part, this can be explained by improvements in longevity which favor urban over rural Australians. Another contributing factor we identify is differential access to healthcare in rich and poor regions. Although Australia's socioeconomic gradient of mortality is flatter than in the US, due to universal health coverage, the fact that mortality inequality is increasing for some groups accentuates the importance of safeguarding health care accessibility.
Acute cycling exercise and hippocampal subfield function and microstructure in healthy older adults
Authors: Callow Daniel D. , Kommula Yash , Stark Craig E. L. , Smith J. Carson
Published: August 2023

Aging is associated with deterioration in dentate gyrus (DG) and CA3, both crucial hippocampal subfields for age susceptible memory processes such as mnemonic discrimination (MD). Meanwhile, a single aerobic exercise session alters DG/CA3 function and neural activity in both rats and younger adults and can elicit short‐term microstructural alterations in the hippocampus of older adults. However, our understanding of the effects of acute exercise on hippocampal subfield integrity via function and microstructure in older adults is limited. Thus, a within subject‐design was employed to determine if 20‐min of moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise alters bilateral hippocampal subfield function and microstructure using high‐resolution functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during an MD task (n = 35) and high angular resolution multi‐shell diffusion imaging (n = 31), in healthy older adults, compared to seated rest. Following the exercise condition, participants exhibited poorer MD performance, particularly when their perception of effort was higher. Exercise was also related to lower MD‐related activity within the DG/CA3 but not CA1 subfield. Finally, after controlling for whole brain gray matter diffusion, exercise was associated with lower neurite density index (NDI) within the DG/CA3. However, exercise‐related differences in DG/CA3 activity and NDI were not associated with differences in MD performance. Our results suggest moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise may temporarily inhibit MD performance, and suppress DG/CA3 MD‐related activity and NDI, potentially through neuroinflammatory/glial processes. However, additional studies are needed to confirm whether these short‐term changes in behavior and hippocampal subfield neurophysiology are beneficial and how they might relate to long‐term exercise habits.
Near‐sensor computing‐assisted simultaneous viral antigen and antibody detection via integrated label‐free biosensors with microfluidics
Authors: Bae Byungjoon , Baek Yongmin , Yang Jeongyong , Lee Heesung , Sonnadara Charana S. S. , Jung Sangeun , Park Minseong , Lee Doeon , Kim Sihwan , Giri Gaurav , Shah Sahil , Yoo Geonwook , Petri William A. , Lee Kyusang
Published: August 2023

Precise diagnosis and immunity to viruses, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) is achieved by the detection of the viral antigens and/or corresponding antibodies, respectively. However, a widely used antigen detection methods, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), are complex, expensive, and time‐consuming Furthermore, the antibody test that detects an asymptomatic infection and immunity is usually performed separately and exhibits relatively low accuracy. To achieve a simplified, rapid, and accurate diagnosis, we have demonstrated an indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO)‐based biosensor field‐effect transistor (bio‐FET) that can simultaneously detect spike proteins and antibodies with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1 pg mL–1 and 200 ng mL–1, respectively using a single assay in less than 20 min by integrating microfluidic channels and artificial neural networks (ANNs). The near‐sensor ANN‐aided classification provides high diagnosis accuracy (>93%) with significantly reduced processing time (0.62%) and energy consumption (5.64%) compared to the software‐based ANN. We believe that the development of rapid and accurate diagnosis system for the viral antigens and antibodies detection will play a crucial role in preventing global viral outbreaks.

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