bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of successful same‐day discharge and 1‐year outcomes after left atrial appendage closure
Authors: Wass Sojin Youn , Galo Jason , Yoon Sung‐Han , Dallan Luis A. P. , Mogalapalli Akhil , Ukaigwe Anene , Attizani Guilherme F. , Simon Daniel I. , Arruda Mauricio , Filby Steven J.
Published: November 2022

Background

Same‐day discharge (SDD) following left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is increasingly common but predictors of successful SDD and 1‐year clinical outcomes have not been described.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore predictors of successful SDD and report 1‐year outcomes in patients undergoing LAAC with SDD.

Methods

A prospective analysis was performed over a 20‐month period of 225 consecutive patients that underwent LAAC in a large, academic hospital. All patients included in the study underwent a SDD protocol. Baseline characteristics and 1‐year outcomes of patients discharged same day of the procedure versus those that required at least one overnight stay were compared. Adverse events, procedural success, and procedure times were evaluated.

Results

One hundred and sixty‐one patients (72%) of patients were discharged the same day and 64 patients (28%) required at least an overnight stay (non‐SDD: NSDD). NSDD patients were older and more often female. Procedure time was also longer in the NSDD group than in the SDD (63.4 vs. 55.1 min;p = 0.01). While overall procedural success rates were similar between the SDD and NSDD groups (99.4% vs. 98.4%;p = 0.39), NSDD patients had more complications (9.4% vs. 0%;p = 0.01) and higher number of devices per procedure (1.2 vs. 1.0;p = 0.01) as compared to SDD. At 1 year, there were no significant difference between the SDD and NSDD groups in stroke (1.1% vs. 0%; log‐rankp = 0.44) and all‐cause mortality (3.9% vs. 4.7%; log‐rankp = 0.70).

Conclusion

In this single‐center LAAC experience, female sex, older age, and longer procedure duration were associated with higher likelihood for need of overnight stay. At 1‐year follow‐up, there were no significant differences in stroke events and death rates between SDD and NSDD groups.
Divergent Synthesis of Ultrabright and Dendritic Xanthenes for Enhanced Click‐Chemistry‐Based Bioimaging
Authors: Montiel Luis , Spada Fabio , Crisp Antony , Serdjukow Sascha , Carell Thomas , Frischmuth Thomas
Published: November 2022

Biorthogonal labelling with fluorescent small molecules is an indispensable tool for diagnostic and biomedical applications. In dye‐based 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) cell proliferation assays, augmentation of the fluorescent signal entails an overall enhancement in the sensitivity and quality of the method. To this end, a rapid, divergent synthetic procedure that provides ready‐to‐click pH‐insensitive rhodamine dyes exhibiting outstanding brightness was established. Compared to the shortest available synthesis of related high quantum‐yielding rhodamines, two fewer synthetic steps are required. In a head‐to‐head imaging comparison involving copper(I)‐catalyzed azide alkyne cycloaddition reactions with in vitro administered EdU, our new 3,3‐difluoroazetidine rhodamine azide outperformed the popular 5‐TAMRA‐azide, making it among the best available choices when it comes to fluorescent imaging of DNA. In a further exploration of the fluorescence properties of these dyes, a set of bis‐MPA dendrons carrying multiple fluorescein or rhodamine units was prepared by branching click chemistry. Fluorescence self‐quenching of fluorescein‐ and rhodamine‐functionalized dendrons limited the suitability of the dyes as labels in EdU‐based experiments but provided new insights into these effects.
Closed Bipolar Electrode Array for Optical Reporting Reaction‐Coupled Electrochemical Sensing and Imaging
Authors: Qin Xiang , Gao Jiao , Jin Hua‐Jiang , Li Zhong‐Qiu , Xia Xing‐Hua
Published: November 2022

This review centers on a closed bipolar electrode (BPE) array using an electro‐fluorochromism (EFC) or electro‐chemiluminescence (ECL) reaction as the reporting reaction. Electrochemical signals at one pole of the closed BPE array can be transduced into the EFC or ECL signals at the opposite pole. Therefore, the current signal of a redox reaction can be easily detected and imaged by monitoring the luminescence signal. Recent developments in closed BPE array‐based EFC and ECL sensing and imaging are summarized and discussed in detail. Finally, we consider the challenges and opportunities for improving the spatial resolution of closed BPE array‐based electrochemical imaging, and emphasize the important application of this technique to the imaging of cellular activities at the single‐cell level.
Chiral Anthranyl Trifluoromethyl Alcohols: Structures, Oxidative Dearomatization and Chiroptical Properties
Authors: Sonet Dorian , Cayla Mattéo , Méreau Raphaël , Morvan Estelle , Lacoudre Aline , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Albalat Muriel , Bassani Dario M. , Scalabre Antoine , Pouget Emilie , Bibal Brigitte
Published: November 2022

Chiral trifluoromethyl alcohol groups were introduced at the hindered ortho positions of 9,10‐diphenylanthracenes to investigate their effects on the physical properties and reactivity towards oxidative dearomatization. In such compact structures, the position in different quadrants and the preferred orientation of the −CH(OH)CF3 groups were determined by the relative and absolute configurations of each stereoisomer, respectively. As a consequence, the stereochemistry governs the organization of the H‐bonded molecules in single crystals (homochiral dimers vs ribbon), whereas in chlorinated solvents, they all behave as discrete compounds. Concerning their reactivity, the stereospecific dearomative oxidation of these molecules leads to 9,10‐bis‐spiro‐isobenzofuran‐anthracenes, when using organic single‐electron transfer oxidants. The chiroptical properties of the alcohols and the corresponding dearomatized products were compared and showed an important modulation of the intensity.
Rapid 18F‐ and 19F‐Difluoromethylation through Desulfurative Fluorination of Transient N‐, O‐, and C‐Linked Dithioles
Authors: Newton Josiah J. , Engüdar Gökçe , Brooke Alan J. , Nodwell Matthew B. , Horngren‐Rhodes Holly , Martin Rainer E. , Schaffer Paul , Britton Robert , Friesen Chadron M.
Published: November 2022

The difluoromethyl group plays an important role in modern medicinal and agrochemistry. While several difluoromethylation reagents have been reported, these typically rely on difluoromethyl carbenes or anions, or target specific processes. Here, we describe a conceptually unique and general process for O−H, N−H and C−H difluoromethylation that involves the formation of a transient dithiole followed by facile desulfurative fluorination using silver(I) fluoride. We also introduce the 5,6‐dimethoxy‐1,3‐benzodithiole (DMBDT) function, which undergoes sufficiently rapid desulfurative fluorination to additionally support 18F‐difluoromethylation. This new process is compatible with the wide range of functional groups typically encountered in medicinal chemistry campaigns, and the use of Ag18F is demonstrated in the production of 18F‐labeled derivatives of testosterone, perphenazine, and melatonin, 58.0±2.2, 20.4±0.3 and 32.2±3.6 MBq μmol−1, respectively. We expect that the DMBDT group and this 18F/19F‐difluoromethylation process will inspire and support new efforts in medicinal chemistry, agrochemistry and radiotracer production.
Synthesis of Red‐Light‐Responsive Pheophorbide‐a Tryptamine Conjugated Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Pandurang Taur Prakash , Kumar Bintu , Verma Narshimha , Dastidar Debabrata Ghosh , Yamada Risa , Nishihara Tatsuya , Tanabe Kazuhito , Kumar Dalip
Published: November 2022

Six methyl pheophorbide‐a derivatives were prepared by linking a tryptamine side chain at the C‐131, C‐152 and C‐173 positions of pheophorbide‐a. Prepared conjugates were characterized and evaluated for their photocytotoxicity against A549 cells. The conjugate 6 a with strong absorption at 413 nm (Soret band), 663–671 nm (Q bands) and comparable fluorescence quantum yield (0.26) was found to exhibit significant cytotoxicity (659 nM). Molecular integration of pheophorbide‐a and tryptamines showed synergistic effects as the most potent conjugate 6 a was identified with enhanced photocytotoxicity when compared to methyl pheophorbide‐a. The conjugate 6 a was smoothly taken up by A549 cells and exhibited intracellular localization predominantly to lysosome in the cytoplasm. Upon photoirradiation 6 a generated singlet oxygen to show potent cytotoxicity toward A549 cells.
Inhibition of Amyloid Protein Aggregation Using Selected Peptidomimetics
Authors: Maity Debabrata
Published: November 2022

Aberrant protein aggregation leads to the formation of amyloid fibrils. This phenomenon is linked to the development of more than 40 irremediable diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Plenty of research efforts have been given to understanding the underlying mechanism of protein aggregation, associated toxicity, and the development of amyloid inhibitors. Recently, the peptidomimetic approach has emerged as a potential tool to modulate several protein‐protein interactions (PPIs). In this review, we discussed selected peptidomimetic‐based approaches for the modulation of important amyloid proteins (Islet Amyloid Polypeptide, Amyloid Beta, α‐synuclein, mutant p53, and insulin) aggregation. This approach holds a powerful platform for creating an essential stepping stone for the vital development of anti‐amyloid therapeutic agents.
Pharmacogenetics of ABCB1, CDA, DCK, GSTT1, GSTM1 and outcomes in a cohort of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia patients from Colombia
Authors: Yunis Luz K. , Linares‐Ballesteros Adriana , Aponte Nelson , Barros Gisela , García Johnny , Niño Laura , Uribe Gloria , Quintero Edna , Yunis Juan J.
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim

Different studies have shown pharmacogenetic variants related to drug toxicity in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Our aim was to identify the association between ABCB1, CDA, DCK, GSTT1, and GSTM1 variants with clinical outcomes and toxicity in pediatric patients with AML.

Methods

Fifty‐one confirmed de novo AML pediatric patients were included. A SNaPshot™ assay and conventional PCR were used to evaluate ABCB1, CDA, DCK, GSTT1, and GSTM1 variants. Clinical outcomes and toxicity associations were evaluated using odds ratios and Chi‐square analysis.

Results

Patients carrying ABCB1 (1236C > T, rs1128503) GG genotype in had a 6.8 OR (CI 95% 1.08–42.73, p = .044) for cardiotoxicity as compared to patients carrying either AA or GA genotypes 0.14 OR (CI 95% 0.023–0.92, p = .044). For ABCB1 (1236G > A rs1128503/2677C > A/T rs2032582/3435G > A rs1045642) AA/AA/AA combined genotypes had a strong association with death after HSTC OR 13.73 (CI 95% 1.94–97.17, p = .009). Combined genotypes GG/CC/GG with CDA (79A > C, rs2072671) CA genotype or CDA (‐451G > A, rs532545) CT genotype, had a 4.11 OR (CI 95% 2.32–725, p = .007) and 3.8 OR (CI 95% 2.23–6.47, p = .027) with MRD >0.1% after first chemotherapy cycle, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the importance of pharmacogenetic analysis in pediatric AML, particularly in populations with a high degree of admixture, and might be useful as a future tool for patient stratification for treatment.
Pleural metastasis from pulmonary primary signet‐ring squamous cell carcinoma. Case report and literature review
Authors: Torres‐Rivas Héctor‐Enrique , Ariza‐Prota Miguel , González Gutiérrez María de la Paz , Berrios Hernández Mario Luis , Bravo Peláez Belén , Fernández Fernández Luis Manuel
Published: November 2022

Signet‐ring cells are morphologically defined by the presence of a large intracytoplasmic vacuole that compresses and displaces the nucleus to the periphery. In most cases, these cells are associated with adenocarcinomas of various locations, and with non‐epithelial neoplasms. To date, less than 20 cases of squamous cell carcinoma with signet‐ring morphology have been described, mainly located on the skin. We present the case of a 73‐year‐old male with pleural effusion and a left lower lobe mass. The cytological study of the pleural effusion allowed the diagnosis of metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma, signet‐ring cell variant. The treatment of lung cancer in advanced stages requires a precise diagnosis that allows the best therapy to be offered to the patient, depending on the clinical stage and the positivity of the biomarkers, among others. Our patient died 18 months after the initial diagnosis.
Current practice of colonoscopy surveillance in patients with lynch syndrome: A multicenter retrospective cohort study in Japan
Authors: Miyakura Yasuyuki , Chino Akiko , Tanakaya Kohji , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Akagi Kiwamu , Takao Akinari , Yamada Masayoshi , Ishida Hideyuki , Komori Koji , Sasaki Kazuhito , Miguchi Masashi , Hirata Keiji , Sudo Tomoya , Ishikawa Toshiaki , Yamaguchi Tatsuro , Tomita Naohiro , Ajioka Yoichi
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Colonoscopy surveillance reduces the incidence of colorectal cancer through the detection and endoscopic removal of adenomas. Current guidelines recommend that patients with Lynch syndrome should have colonoscopy surveillance every 1–2 years starting at the age of 20–25. However, insufficient data are available to evaluate the quality and safety of colonoscopy surveillance for patients with Lynch syndrome nationwide in Japan.

Methods

Patients with Lynch syndrome (n = 309) from 13 institutions who underwent one or more colonoscopy procedures were enrolled in this retrospective analysis. Colonoscopy completion rate, colonoscopy‐related complication rate, proportion with an adequate colonoscopy interval, and adenoma detection rate were reviewed.

Results

The colonoscopy completion rate was 98.8% and a history of previous colorectal cancer surgery was significantly associated with a higher completion rate. All complications were associated with endoscopic treatment and the rate of bleeding needing hemostasis and perforation needing surgical repair were both 0.16% after colonoscopy with polypectomy. The adenoma detection rate at the first colonoscopy was 25%. Although there was no difference in the completion and complication rates based on differences in the colonoscopy experience of the endoscopist, the detection rate of adenomas and intramucosal cancers was significantly higher with more experienced endoscopists. The proportion of patients developing cancer was significantly higher with a >24 months than a ≤24 months interval.

Conclusion

High‐volume experienced endoscopists and appropriate surveillance intervals may minimize the risk of developing colorectal cancers in patients with Lynch syndrome.
Direct Chan–Lam Amination and Etherification of Aryl BMIDA Reagents
Authors: Halford‐McGuff John M. , Israel Eva M. , West Matthew J. , Vantourout Julien C. , Watson Allan J. B.
Published: November 2022

We report a method for the direct Chan–Lam coupling of arylboronic acid N‐methyliminodiacetic acid esters (ArBMIDA) with amine and alcohol nucleophiles. A wide range of C−N and C−O cross‐coupled products are obtained in 34–99 % yield (34 examples). This method serves to expand the scope of organoboron components that can be used directly in this oxidative coupling reaction and provides opportunities for streamlining synthesis.
Electrochemical Sensing of Paracetamol Using 3D Porous Laser Scribed Graphene Platform
Authors: Berni Achraf , Lahcen Abdellatif Ait , Amine Aziz
Published: November 2022

This work presents a novel disposable electrochemical sensor for paracetamol (PCM). The sensing platform is based on graphene, manufactured via laser‐scribing technology (LSG) to produce a 3D‐porous structure that offers a large surface area. The analytical performances of LSG electrodes were greatly enhanced due to the high catalytic activity of graphene produced by LSG technology compared to conventional carbon electrodes. Moreover, the results showed an outstanding adsorption feature towards PCM, allowing its detection at nanomolar level from 5 nM to 100 nM through pre‐concentration. The proposed sensing strategy was successfully applied for the determination of PCM in human urine samples.
Highly Sensitive Enzyme‐free Sensor Based on a Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with Binary Zinc Oxide/Polyaniline Nanocomposites for Dopamine, Ascorbic Acid and Uric Acid Sensing
Authors: Kadri Yasmine , Bekri‐Abbess Imen , Herrasti Pilar
Published: November 2022

Hybrid composites ZnO/PANI were facily synthesized by a sonication process at room temperature. This procedure is non‐expensive, time/energy saving and environmentally safe. The as‐prepared ZnO/PANI were characterized by FTIR, UV‐vis spectroscopies and SEM in order to investigate the structure and morphology of the studied composites. The samples were used to modify carbon paste electrode (CPE) in order to develop electrochemical biosensors (ZnO/PANI/CPE). The sensing properties of the nanoparticles were evaluated for dopamine, ascorbic acid and uric acid non‐enzymatic detection. The effect of percentage of polyaniline in the composites and the effect of calcination on the biosensor's response were also examined in the present study. It was revealed that the existence of PANI in ZnO/PANI/CPE largely enhanced the electroactive surface area and therefore the sensitivity for electrochemical sensing. A good electrochemical behavior was noted for ZnO/40 wt% PANI‐cal/CPE modified electrode toward DA, AA and UA oxidation. The electroactive surface area of the previously mentioned modified electrode (0.235 cm2) was two times higher than that of the bare electrode (0.117 cm2). The liner relationships between current intensities and concentrations were found to be 0.01–1.4 mM, 0.1–1.3 mM and 0.01–0.12 mM, with detection limit of 0.029 mM, 0.063 mM and 0.007 mM, for DA, AA and UA respectively. In the mixtures of ascorbic acid (AA), dopamine (DA) uric acid (UA) and glucose (Glu) the sensor showed high selectivity of DA with low interference of ascorbic acid by a current change of 14 %. The as‐prepared ZnO/PANI/CPE biosensor displayed a good reproducibility and stability.
Assessing stream temperature response and recovery for different harvesting systems in northern hardwood forests using 40 years of spot measurements
Authors: Leach Jason A. , Hudson Danielle T. , Moore R. Dan
Published: November 2022

Stream temperature is a critical control on aquatic habitat and a key forest management concern in many jurisdictions. Most research on stream temperature response to forest harvesting is from coniferous forests in rain‐dominated watersheds and focused on the first few years following harvesting. In contrast, we know less about the harvesting impacts on stream temperature for silviculture approaches typically used in northern hardwood forests that are influenced by snow. We addressed this knowledge gap by using four decades (1980 to 2020) of spot water temperature measurements recorded at three treatment and two reference catchments (areas 4.5 to 69 ha) as part of a long‐term water quality monitoring programme at the Turkey Lakes Watershed study near the eastern shores of Lake Superior. We were able to control for diel and seasonal biases in the spot temperature measurements and found that clearcut harvesting showed a summer temperature increase that persisted for 5 to 7 years after harvesting. Shelterwood and selection harvest did not exhibit a detectable change in stream temperature. These responses are consistent with observed changes in forest canopy through time and between harvesting approaches. In addition, the stream temperature responses were likely muted due to the streams being short and characterized by intermittent flow conditions, as well as the potential moderating influence of increased subsurface runoff following harvesting. Our results highlight how insights can be extracted from routine water quality programmes that were hitherto unrecognized.
MicroRNAs: Small molecules with big impacts in liver injury
Authors: Abdel Halim Alyaa S. , Rudayni Hassan Ahmed , Chaudhary Anis Ahmad , Ali Mohamed A. M.
Published: November 2022

A type of small noncoding RNAs known as microRNAs (miRNAs) fine‐tune gene expression posttranscriptionally by binding to certain messenger RNA targets. Numerous physiological processes in the liver, such as differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis, are regulated by miRNAs. Additionally, there is growing evidence that miRNAs contribute to liver pathology. Extracellular vesicles like exosomes, which contain secreted miRNAs, may facilitate paracrine and endocrine communication between various tissues by changing the gene expression and function of distal cells. The use of stable miRNAs as noninvasive biomarkers was made possible by the discovery of these molecules in body fluids. Circulating miRNAs reflect the conditions of the liver that are abnormal and may serve as new biomarkers for the early detection, prognosis, and evaluation of liver pathological states. miRNAs are appealing therapeutic targets for a range of liver disease states because altered miRNA expression is associated with deregulation of the liver's metabolism, liver damage, liver fibrosis, and tumor formation. This review provides a comprehensive review and update on miRNAs biogenesis pathways and mechanisms of miRNA‐mediated gene silencing. It also outlines how miRNAs affect hepatic cell proliferation, death, and regeneration as well as hepatic detoxification. Additionally, it highlights the diverse functions that miRNAs play in the onset and progression of various liver diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, fibrosis, hepatitis C virus infection, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Further, it summarizes the diverse liver‐specific miRNAs, illustrating the potential merits and possible caveats of their utilization as noninvasive biomarkers and appealing therapeutic targets for liver illnesses.
Age‐related SUMOylation of PLK1 is essential to meiosis progression in mouse oocytes
Authors: Mo Xiao‐Long , Liu Feng , Xing Chun‐Hua , Shan Meng‐Meng , Yao Bo , Sun Qi‐Qi , Zou Yuan‐Jing , Zhang Kun‐Huan , Tan Jun , Sun Shao‐Chen , Ren Yan‐Ping
Published: November 2022

Polo like kinase 1 (PLK1) is a protein kinase involved in regulating the spindle assembly and cell cycle control in mammalian oocytes. SUMOylation, one way of post‐translational modification, regulates oocyte meiosis by controlling several substrates. However, the relation between PLK1 and SUMOylation in oocytes is still unknown. In this study, we investigated that whether PLK1 was modified by SUMOylation in oocytes and its potential relationship with age‐related meiotic abnormalities. We showed that PLK1 had colocalization and protein interaction with Small Ubiquitin‐Like Modifier (SUMO)‐1 and SUMO‐2/3 in mouse oocytes, indicating that PLK1 could be modified by SUMO‐1 and SUMO‐2/3. Overexpression of PLK1 SUMOylation site mutants PLK1K178R and PLK1K191R caused the increase of the abnormal spindle rate of oocytes and the decline of the first polar body extrusion rate with the abnormal localization of PLK1, suggesting that the SUMOylation modification of PLK1 is essential for normal meiosis in oocytes. Compared with young mice, the expression of PLK1 protein increased and the expression of SUMO‐1 and SUMO‐2/3 protein decreased in the oocytes of aged mice, indicating that the SUMOylation of PLK1 might be related to the mouse aging. Therefore, our data suggested that PLK1 could be SUMOylated by SUMO‐1 and SUMO‐2/3 in mouse oocytes and SUMOylation of PLK1 regulated the meiosis progression of oocytes which was related with aging.
The hierarchical basis of serial homology and evolutionary novelty
Authors: DiFrisco James , Love Alan C. , Wagner Günter P.
Published: November 2022

Given the pervasiveness of gene sharing in evolution and the extent of homology across the tree of life, why is everything not homologous with everything else? The continuity and overlapping genetic contributions to diverse traits across lineages seem to imply that no discrete determination of homology is possible. Although some argue that the widespread overlap in parts and processes should be acknowledged as “partial” homology, this threatens a broad base of presumed comparative morphological knowledge accepted by most biologists. Following a long scientific tradition, we advocate a strategy of “theoretical articulation” that introduces further distinctions to existing concepts to produce increased contrastive resolution among the labels used to represent biological phenomena. We pursue this strategy by drawing on successful patterns of reasoning from serial homology at the level of gene sequences to generate an enriched characterization of serial homology as a hierarchical, phylogenetic concept. Specifically, we propose that the concept of serial homology should be applied primarily to repeated but developmentally individualized body parts, such as cell types, differentiated body segments, or epidermal appendages. For these characters, a phylogenetic history can be reconstructed, similar to families of paralogous genes, endowing the notion of serial homology with a hierarchical, phylogenetic interpretation. On this basis, we propose a five‐fold theoretical classification that permits a more fine‐grained mapping of diverse trait‐types. This facilitates answering the question of why everything is not homologous with everything else, as well as how novelty is possible given that any new character possesses evolutionary precursors. We illustrate the fecundity of our account by reference to debates over insect wing serial homologs and vertebrate paired appendages.
A phenome‐wide investigation of risk factors for severe COVID‐19
Authors: Baranova Ancha , Cao Hongbao , Teng Shaolei , Zhang Fuquan
Published: November 2022

With the continued spread of COVID‐19 globally, it is crucial to identify the potential risk or protective factors associated with COVID‐19. Here, we performed genetic correlation analysis and Mendelian randomization analysis to examine genetic relationships between COVID‐19 hospitalization and 405 health conditions and lifestyle factors in 456 422 participants from the UK Biobank. The genetic correlation analysis revealed 134 positive and 65 negative correlations, including those with intakes of a variety of dietary components. The MR analysis indicates that a set of body fat‐related traits, maternal smoking around birth, basal metabolic rate, lymphocyte count, peripheral enthesopathies and allied syndromes, blood clots in the leg, and arthropathy are causal risk factors for severe COVID‐19, while higher education attainment, physical activity, asthma, and never smoking status protect against the illness. Our findings have implications for risk stratification in patients with COVID‐19 and the prevention of its severe outcomes.
Novel strategies for extraction, purification, processing, and stability improvement of bioactive molecules
Authors: Shakoor Rafia , Hussain Nazim , Younas Saima , Bilal Muhammad
Published: November 2022

Bioactive molecules gain significance in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries for showcasing various beneficial biological properties including but not limited to anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, anti‐inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic. However, the practice of using traditional approaches to produce bioactive molecules is gradually declining due to various limitations such as low product quality, high toxicity, low product yield, low efficiency, and product degradation. Thus, with the escalating demand for these bioactive molecules and active agents in food and other food‐related industries, it has become a dire need for the scientific world to come up with novel approaches and strategies that cannot just improve the quality of these bioactives but also prepare them in a comparatively shorter time span. This review includes the latest approaches and techniques used either independently or in combinations for the extraction, purification, processing, and stability improvement of general bioactive molecules. Different parameters of these versatile techniques have been discussed with their effectiveness and work principles.
Characterization of lipopeptide produced by Bacillus altitudinis Q7 and inhibitory effect on Alternaria alternata
Authors: Guo Pengfei , Yang Fengrui , Ye Shuhong , Li Jing , Shen Fengjun , Ding Yan
Published: November 2022

This study identified the antifungal metabolites produced by Bacillus altitudinis Q7 against Alternaria alternata and investigated the antifungal activity and antifungal action. Lipopeptide, the important secondary metabolites were identified by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry as lichenysin. The antifungal activity of lipopeptide on A. alternata was determined by microdilution technique, and its minimum inhibitory concentration was 1.2 mg/ml. Stability test showed that lipopeptide had excellent temperature and pH resistance. To investigate whether lichenysin acted on the cell membrane and changed its permeability, the ultra‐violet absorption of protein and nucleic acid were measured using a colorimetric method. The antifungal metabolites produced by B. altitudinis Q7 was lichenysin, which showed stable antifungal activity in the extreme environments. Lichenysin could inhibit A. alternata by altering the permeability of cell membrane, leading to the outflow of proteins and nucleic acids from the cytoplasm. This research suggests the lipopeptide from B. altitudinis Q7 is a potential biological control agent against A. alternata.
Retracted: Two main temperature periodicities related to planetary and solar activity oscillations
Authors: Ollila Antero , Timonen Mauri
Published: November 2022

The mechanism and even the existence of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) have remained under debate among climate researchers, and the same applies to general temperature oscillations of a 60–90‐year period. The objective of this study is to show that these temperature oscillations are real and not artifacts and that these oscillations have different external cosmic origins. The authors have studied how well the variations of astronomical harmonic resonances (AHR) could explain the 60‐year temperature variations, which are based on instrumental records and on the tree‐ring data of the supra‐long Scots pine tree‐ring record for northern Finnish Lapland (subsequently called the Finnish timberline pine chronology [FTPC]), stretching to the year 5634 BC. Powerful volcanic eruptions have significant temperature‐decreasing impacts, and they are the major disturbances to eliminate in analysis. The similarities between the temperatures of the tree‐ring trend and the AHR trend are easy to observe even by the naked eye. The statistical analysis shows that these two signals are statistically related. The analyses also show that the well‐known Gleissberg cycle of 88 years is the dominating cycle caused by the Suns' activity changes but the observed 60‐year cycle can be connected to the AHR cyclicity.
Why we Support some Original Ideas but Reject Others: An Application of Signaling Theory
Authors: Hunter Samuel T. , Blocker Lily D. , Gutworth Melissa B. , Allen Julian
Published: November 2022

Although organizations say new ideas are desirable, investing in original products rather than the “tried and true” can be unsettling for decision‐makers. This discomfort may be due, in part, to uncertainty surrounding whether a new idea will prove successful. As such, the originality of a creative idea can be paradoxically viewed both as an asset, driving up appeal, as well as a detrimental risk. To help unpack these relationships, we propose that how an original idea is proposed (i.e., pitched) plays a central role in the support it receives. Guided by signaling theory we examined how pitch quality relates to funding for ideas with varying degrees of originality. In a field sample of 245 Kickstarter crowdfunding campaigns, pitch quality for ideas high in originality predicted investment in such ideas. In a follow‐up experimental study, we created high‐ and low‐quality pitches for two products, also varying product originality and product quality. Results highlight the importance of high‐quality pitches for highly original ideas that are associated with reductions in uncertainty. Supplemental analyses suggest that high‐quality pitches improve enthusiasm for a product as well, highlighting a potential second path of support influence.
Habitat management to reduce competitive interactions: case study of native and invading cottontails
Authors: Eline Drew V. , Cohen Jonathan B. , Whipps Christopher M. , Cheeseman Amanda E.
Published: November 2022

Habitat management recommendations are often based on best available science determined through retroductive and inductive hypotheses. Such recommendations are not frequently tested, potentially resulting in the implementation of unreliable practices for management of imperiled species. The New England cottontail (Sylvilagus transitionalis) is an imperiled shrubland‐obligate species whose recovery efforts include habitat management and restoration. Researchers suggest former best management practices for the species may result in ecological traps and new recommendations have been developed. We evaluated these newly revised best management practices designed to retain higher tree canopy closure to promote New England cottontails without encouraging eastern cottontails (Sylvilagus floridanus). We compared New England and eastern cottontail density between management plots (tree canopy thinned with all downed trees left on the ground, with or without invasive shrub treatment) and control plots (unmanaged) and examined the influence of management on resource selection and survival. Management strategies retaining higher canopy closure promoted stronger selection by New England cottontails than by eastern cottontails. Catch per unit effort of New England cottontails was greater than for eastern cottontails in management plots (P = 0.002). For both species, the proportion of the 95% home range overlapping managed areas was greater than the proportion of managed area in the habitat patch; however, for the 50% core area of the home range, this was only true for New England cottontails. When post‐treatment canopy cover was >75%, New England cottontails selected canopy‐thinning treatments without invasive shrub removal over unmanaged areas, but selection by eastern cottontails was unaffected by management treatment or canopy cover. Survival probability of both species was high and uncorrelated with time spent in management areas. Survival probability decreased as the average distance a rabbit moved in a 7‐day period increased. Our results illustrate the need to revise management strategies that emphasize eliminating canopy cover when improving New England cottontail habitat is an objective, particularly where they are sympatric with eastern cottontails.
Identification Accuracy of Safety‐Relevant Environmental Sounds in Adult Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Luzum Nathan R. , Hamel Benjamin L. , Shafiro Valeriy , Harris Michael S.
Published: November 2022

Objective

Examine cochlear implant (CI) users' ability to identify safety‐relevant environmental sounds, imperative for safety, independence, and personal well‐being.

Methods

Twenty‐one experienced adult CI users completed an Environmental Sound Identification (ESI) test consisting of 42 common environmental sounds, 28 of which were relevant to personal safety, along with 14 control sounds. Prior to sound identification, participants were shown sound names and asked to rate the familiarity and, separately, relevance to safety of each corresponding sound on a 1–5 scale.

Results

Overall ESI accuracy was 57% correct for the safety‐relevant sounds and 55% correct for control sounds. Participants rated safety‐relevant sounds as more important to safety and more familiar than the non‐safety sounds. ESI accuracy significantly correlated with familiarity ratings.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest mediocre ESI accuracy in postlingual adult CI users for safety‐relevant and other environmental sounds. Deficits in the identification of these sounds may put CI listeners at increased risk of accidents or injuries and may require a specific rehabilitation program to improve CI outcomes.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:2388–2393, 2023
A synthesis of floodplain aquatic ecosystem metabolism and carbon flux using causal criteria analysis
Authors: McInerney Paul J. , Giling Darren P. , Wolfenden Ben , Sengupta Ashmita
Published: November 2022

The transformation of solar energy into organic matter by autotrophs (gross primary production [GPP]) and the use of that energy by autotrophs and heterotrophs (ecosystem respiration [ER]) describe the total energy available to support food webs. Rates of GPP and ER vary with temperature, light, hydrology, nutrients, and organic matter supply and quality yet despite their obvious importance, spatiotemporal variation of metabolic patterns among floodplain habitats, and their relationship to inundation dynamics remain unclear. We set out to review the peer‐reviewed literature surrounding the influence of the magnitude, frequency, and duration of floodplain inundation on aquatic ecosystem metabolism and carbon flux by rigorously testing a suite of cause–effect hypotheses using a causal criteria analysis. Causal criteria analysis is a literature synthesis approach developed to address a lack of experimental data and subsequent weak inference of causal relationships. We found support for 3 of the 14 hypotheses we tested relating to putative causal relationships: (1) large floods transfer more carbon from floodplains to the river channel than small floods via the increase in inundation area leading to more overall leaching of floodplain litter, (2) in high turbidity floodplain habitats rates of GPP are reduced by restrictions to photic depth, and (3) a positive correlation between nutrients and GPP—generally GPP in floodplain wetlands increases with nutrient levels. We obtained inconsistent evidence for a causal relationship between macrophytes and aquatic GPP, with studies reporting both a negative influence from decreased light caused by macrophyte shading and a positive influence from structural support provided by macrophytes for periphyton growth. For the remaining 10 hypotheses, there was insufficient evidence to support causal relationships, including for any hypotheses relating to frequency or duration of floodplain inundation. Our results emphasize that despite an apparent wealth of metabolic studies in riverine ecosystems, floodplain metabolic dynamics remain poorly studied, likely due to less investment and increased difficulty compared to lotic waters. The review also highlighted aspects of floodplain aquatic ecosystem metabolism for which there are significant knowledge gaps in the literature, in particular metabolic responses to inundation frequency and duration. Our results call attention to the importance of site specificity and temporal changes when predicting putative cause–effect relationships between floodplain inundation and metabolic patterns.
Novel dynamic Hardy‐type inequalities on time scales
Authors: El‐Deeb Ahmed A.
Published: November 2022

In the present article, we proved some new dynamic inequalities of Hardy‐type on an arbitrary time scale. We have used dynamic Minkowski inequality, dynamic Hölder's inequality, dynamic Jensen's inequality and Fubini theorem on time scales to prove our main results. As special case of our results, some Hardy‐type integral inequalities known in the literature have been recaptured, and some original discrete inequalities of Hardy‐type have been established.
Intra‐abdominal and perineal pressures during abdominal exercises: A cross sectional study in postpartum women
Authors: Djivoh Yollande Sènan , De Jaeger Dominique
Published: November 2022

Aims

Low intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP) and high perineal pressure (PP) are safe conditions for pelvic floor. This study aims to measure IAP and PP in Beninese post‐partum women during abdominal exercises and determine what exercise presents less risk for pelvic floor after delivery.

Methods

IAP and PP were measured at rest and during exercises performed in random order: Cough, pelvic floor contraction (PFC), Curl‐up, diaphragmatic aspiration (DA), Drawing‐in, DA + Curl‐up and Drawing‐in+Curl‐up, using a Micro‐Full biofeedback PHENIX‐Vivaltis with dual‐channel probe. Results were presented as change from rest (maximal value during exercise minus value at rest) and expressed in percentage of this change for the reference exercise, Cough for IAP and PFC for PP. The ANOVA repeated measures test was used to compare pressures between exercises.

Results

Seventeen postpartum women participated to this study. The maximal IAP and PP change were the highest (100%), respectively, during cough and PFC. During DA, IAP was the lowest (−7%) and PP was 51%. During Curl‐up, IAP was moderate (43%) and significantly higher than during PFC (33%), Drawing‐in (16%) and DA. PP was low (29%) and similar to that during Drawing‐in (23%). Compared to Curl‐up, Drawing‐in+Curl‐up increased PP (50%) but did not decrease IAP (40%). DA + Curl‐up increased PP (58%) and decreased IAP (31%) compared to Curl‐up but not compared to DA.

Conclusion

DA is safe and Curl‐up presents little risk for the pelvic floor. According to interindividual variations observed in IAP and PP, intrinsic factors should be considered in future studies.
A test of differential susceptibility in behavior trajectories of preterm infants from preschool to adulthood
Authors: Kelly Michelle M. , Arcoleo Kimberly , D'Agata Amy L. , Sullivan Mary C.
Published: November 2022

Preterm birth predisposes children to internalizing and externalizing behaviors that may persist into adolescence resulting in adult mental health conditions. Social and caregiving contexts, particularly for vulnerable infants born preterm, influence long‐term outcomes, but mechanisms are not clearly understood. Healthcare teams caring for those born preterm face difficulty predicting who will be most affected by risk, who will most benefit, and the optimal timing of intervention. Differential susceptibility theory offers an alternative to the traditional risk‐only assessments and theories by positing that individuals may be more, or less, susceptible to environmental influences. A sample of preterm‐ and term‐born infants were followed from birth to 23 years of age. Mixed model repeated measures analyses of internalizing and externalizing behaviors were utilized for the comparison groups (N = 214; observations = 1070). Environmental contexts were indexed as proximal protection (low, moderate, high) and medical risk (low, moderate, high). Personal characteristic covariates of sex, race, socioeconomic status, and cognition were modeled. Internalizing behavior trajectories varied significantly over time. Early proximal protective environments conferred a sustained positive influence on behaviors. There is partial support for differential susceptibility theory suggesting that prematurity, as a malleability characteristic enables absorption of both the positive and negative influences of the environment, with greater intensity that those without malleability. The current analyses suggest lasting effects of the preschool age proximal environment on internalizing and externalizing behaviors in young adulthood for those born preterm. Understanding these nuances may aid healthcare professionals in the promotion and timing of interventions to support the child and family. The current manuscript reflects ongoing analyses of longitudinal data. No patient or public contribution to the analyses were required for testing the differential susceptibility theory. The authors would solicit patient or public contribution when implementing practice or policy changes based on the results.
Stimuli‐accelerated polymeric drug delivery systems
Authors: Rust Tarik , Jung Dimitri , Langer Klaus , Kuckling Dirk
Published: November 2022

The controlled delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients to the site of disease represents a major challenge in drug therapy. Particularly when drugs have to be transported across biological barriers, suitable drug delivery systems are of importance. In recent years responsive delivery systems have been developed which enable a controlled drug release depending on internal or external stimuli such as changes in pH, redox environment or light and temperature. In some studies delivery systems with reactivity against two different stimuli were established either to enhance the response by synergies of the stimuli or to broaden the window of possible trigger events. In the present review numerous exciting developments of pH‐, light‐ and redox‐cleavable polymers suitable for the preparation of smart delivery systems are described. The review discusses the different stimuli that can be used for a controlled drug release of polymer‐based delivery systems. It puts a focus on the different polymers described for the preparation of stimuli‐sensitive systems, their preparation techniques as well as their stimuli‐responsive degradation. © 2022 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Parametric investigations on plasma‐activated conversion of CH4–CH3OH to C2–C4 alcohols by nanosecond pulsed discharge
Authors: Li Jiacong , Gao Yuan , Dou Liguang , Zhang Cheng , Du Jun , Shao Tao
Published: November 2022

The single‐step conversion of CH4 to higher alcohols without catalyst or complex processing is the dream solution both in C1 chemistry and the chemical industry. Here, an innovative synthesis of higher alcohols from CH4–CH3OH was driven by a highly flexible nanosecond pulsed plasma. Experimental results showed that the products distribution was strongly correlated with the electric field variation and reactants composition, and the maximum conversion of CH4 (35.9%) and CH3OH (77.4%) were obtained at the CH4/Ar ratio of 1:2. Interestingly, the addition of H2O and H2O2 effectively promoted the C2–C4 alcohols selectivity up to 19.4%. In addition, optical diagnostics were used to obtain active species distribution and integrated insights into the C–C coupling of higher alcohols generation. A possible reaction mechanism of CH4–CH3OH plasma was also discussed.