bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palladium(II) and Platinum(II) Bis(Stibinidene) Complexes with Intramolecular Hydrogen‐Bond Enforced Geometries
Authors: Zechovský Jan , Kertész Erik , Erben Milan , Hejda Martin , Jambor Roman , Růžička Aleš , Benkő Zoltán , Dostál Libor
Published: November 2023

The coordination capability of two N,C,N pincer coordinated stibinidenes, i. e. bis(imino)‐ [2,6‐(DippN=CH)2C6H3]Sb (1) or imino‐amino‐ [2‐(DippN=CH)‐6‐(DippNHCH2)C6H3]Sb (2) toward palladium(II) and platinum(II) centers was examined. In the course of this study, seven new square‐planar bis(stibinidene) complexes were synthesized and characterized by NMR, IR, Raman, UV‐vis spectroscopy and single crystal (sc)‐X‐ray diffraction analysis. In all cases, both stibinidene ligands 1 or 2 adopt trans positions, but differ significantly in the torsion angle describing mutual orientation of aromatic rings of the stibinidenes along the Sb−Pd/Pt−Sb axes. Furthermore, majority of complexes form isomers in solution most probably due to a hindered rotation around Sb−Pd/Pt bonds caused by bulkiness of 1 and 2. This phenomenon also seems to be influenced by the absence/presence of a pendant −CH2NH− group in 1/2 that is able to form intramolecular hydrogen bonds with the adjacent chlorine atom(s) attached to the metal centers. The whole problem was subjected to a theoretical study focusing on the role of hydrogen bonds in structure architecture of the complexes. To describe the UV‐vis spectra of these highly coloured complexes, TD‐DFT calculations were employed. These outline differences between the stibinidene ligands, the transition metals as well as between the charge of the complexes (neutral or anionic).
The Impact of Immunogenicity on the Pharmacokinetics, Efficacy, and Safety of Sotatercept in a Phase III Study of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Liao Karen , Mackenzie Harald , Ait‐Oudhia Sihem , Manimaran Solaiappan , Zeng Yiyuan , Akers Tad , Yun Tatyana , de Oliveira Pena Janethe
Published: November 2023

Sotatercept, a soluble fusion protein comprising the extracellular domain of activin receptor type IIA linked to the Fc portion of human IgG1, is a first‐in‐class activin signaling inhibitor under development for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We evaluated antidrug antibody (ADA) development and determined the effects of immunogenicity on the pharmacokinetics (PKs), efficacy, and safety of sotatercept in STELLAR, a multicenter, double‐blind phase III trial (NCT04576988) wherein participants with PAH were randomized 1:1 to receive sotatercept (starting dose 0.3; target dose 0.7 mg/kg) or placebo subcutaneously every 3 weeks in combination with background therapies for ≤ 72 weeks. ADA‐positive (ADA‐POS) participants were identified and characterized for neutralizing antibodies (NAbs). PKs, efficacy, and safety were evaluated by ADA and NAb status. Of 162 evaluable participants, 42 (25.9%) were ADA‐POS through week 24, of whom 11 (6.8%) were also NAb‐POS. Median onset of ADAs was 3.29 weeks (interquartile range (IQR): 3.14–6.14), and median duration was 6 weeks (IQR: 3.14–17.86). No clinically meaningful differences were found across subgroups that were ADA‐NEG, ADA‐POS/NAb‐NEG, and ADA‐POS/NAb‐POS, in terms of PKs (sotatercept trough concentration over time, mean postdose trough concentration at the end of treatment, and clearance), efficacy (changes from baseline in 6‐minute walk distance, pulmonary vascular resistance, and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels), and safety (incidence of hypersensitivity, anaphylactic reactions, and administration site reactions). We conclude that ADA incidence from sotatercept treatment was 25.9% and did not meaningfully affect the PKs, efficacy, or safety of sotatercept in participants with PAH.
Integration of T‐cell clonality screening using TRBC‐1 in lymphoma suspect samples by flow cytometry
Authors: Castillo Felipe , Morales Constanza , Spralja Biserka , Díaz‐Schmidt Joaquín , Iruretagoyena Mirentxu , Ernst Daniel
Published: November 2023

Background

The diagnosis of T‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) is challenging. The development of a monoclonal antibody specific for T‐cell receptor β constant region 1 (TRBC1) provides an alternative to discriminate clonal T cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic potential of an anti‐TRBC1 mAb for the identification of T‐NHL.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional diagnostic analytic study of samples tested for lymphoma. All samples sent for lymphoma screening were first evaluated using the standard Euroflow LST, to which a second additional custom‐designed T‐cell clonality assessment tube was added CD45/TRBC1/CD2/CD7/CD4/TCRγδ/CD3. Flow cytometry reports were compared with morphological and molecular tests.

Results

Fifty‐nine patient samples were evaluated. Within the T‐cell population, cut‐off percentages in the CD4+ cells were from 29.4 to 54.6% and from 23.9 to 52.1% in CD8+ cells. Cut‐off ratios in CD4+ T cells were from 0.33 to 1.1, and in CD8+ cells between 0.22 and 1.0. Using predefined normal cut‐off values, 18 of 59 (30.5%) samples showed a restricted expression of TRBC1. A final diagnosis of a T‐NHL was confirmed clinically and/or by histopathological studies in 15 of the 18 cases (83.3%). There were no cases of T‐NHL by morphology/IHC with normal TRBC1 expression. Non‐neoplastic patient samples behaved between predefined TRBC1 cut‐off values.

Conclusions

Expression of TRBC1 provides a robust method for T‐cell clonality assessment, with very high sensitivity and good correlation with complementary methods. TRBC1 can be integrated into routine lymphoma screening strategies via flow cytometry.
Fire regime shapes butterfly communities through changes in nectar resources in an Australian tropical savanna
Authors: Leone Julia B. , Larson Diane L. , Richards Anna E. , Schatz Jon , Andersen Alan N.
Published: November 2023

Fire‐dependent savanna provides key habitat for butterflies globally, but we know little about how fire regimes, including fire frequency and season, affect them. These impacts are likely to be primarily indirect, through changes in overall habitat structure, the abundance of larval host plants, and/or the provision of nectar resources for adults. We examined the relationships among fire regime, butterfly abundance and diversity, and vegetation structure and floral resources within a long‐term fire experiment near Darwin in the Australian monsoon tropics. We surveyed butterflies and floral resources throughout the 2019–2020 wet season in three replicate plots of each of six experimental treatments that had been operating for 15 years. All plots subject to fire had been burned in the previous dry season. We observed 24 butterfly species and 280 individuals representing all five butterfly families found in Northern Australia. Butterfly abundance was highest under early dry‐season (June) fire regimes (mean = 11.9 individuals per plot survey) compared with a late dry‐season (October) regime (mean = 6.7) and in the long‐term absence of fire (mean = 5.3), and this was correlated with the abundance of floral resources. The distribution of butterflies was also highly associated with floral resources within plots regardless of fire treatment. Butterfly species richness was significantly higher in early dry‐season (mean = 6.8) compared with unburned (mean = 3.3) plots but did not differ between early and late dry‐season (mean = 4.7) plots. Butterfly and floral diversity were similar across all early dry‐season fire treatments regardless of whether they had been burned every 1, 2, 3, or 5 years. Our finding that early dry‐season burning promotes butterfly diversity and abundance by increasing the supply of nectar resources has important implications for biodiversity management more broadly, given that nectar is a critical resource for many animal taxa.
Machine Learning‐Assisted Fabrication of PCBM‐Perovskite Solar Cells with Nanopatterned TiO2 Layer
Authors: Sanimu Siti Norhasanah , Yang Hwa‐Young , Kandel Jeevan , Moon Ye‐Chong , Sharma Gaudel Gangasagar , Yu Seung‐Ju , Kim Yong Ju , Kim Sejung , Jun Bong‐Hyun , Rho Won‐Yeop
Published: November 2023

To unlock the full potential of PSCs, machine learning (ML) was implemented in this research to predict the optimal combination of mesoporous‐titanium dioxide (mp‐TiO2) and weight percentage (wt%) of phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM), along with the current density (Jsc), open‐circuit voltage (Voc), fill factor (ff), and energy conversion efficiency (ECE). Then, the combination that yielded the highest predicted ECE was selected as a reference to fabricate PCBM‐PSCs with nanopatterned TiO2 layer. Subsequently, the PCBM‐PSCs with nanopatterned TiO2 layers were fabricated and characterized to further understand the effects of nanopatterning depth and wt% of PCBM on PSCs. Experimentally, the highest ECE of 17.338% is achieved at 127 nm nanopatterning depth and 0.10 wt% of PCBM, where the Jsc, Voc, and ff are 22.877 mA cm−2, 0.963 V, and 0.787, respectively. The measured Jsc, Voc, ff, and ECE values show consistencies with the ML prediction. Hence, these findings not only revealed the potential of ML to be used as a preliminary investigation to navigate the research of PSCs but also highlighted that nanopatterning depth has a significant impact on Jsc, and the incorporation of PCBM on perovskite layer influenced the Voc and ff, which further boosted the performance of PSCs.
Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors are associated with reduced risk of mortality and readmissions in heart failure
Authors: Karlström Patric , Pivodic Aldina , Dahlström Ulf , Fu Michael
Published: November 2023

Aims

Compelling evidence from randomized trials has shown that sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are effective in heart failure (HF) across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fractions. However, there are very few studies with real‐world data.

Methods and results

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed based on patient‐level data from the Swedish Heart Failure Registry (SwedeHF) linked with three other national registers. Patients included had an index registration between 3 September 2013 and 31 December 2020 in SwedeHF and were on treatment with guideline‐recommended therapy without or with SGLT2i 3 months before or 6 months after their index registration. Endpoints were mortality or readmissions. Association between the use of SGLT2i and endpoints was studied using adjusted Cox models. In the overall cohort, 796/22 405 patients were included with/without SGLT2i. In patients with SGLT2i, 93.5% had diabetes mellitus. In the overall cohort, SGLT2i was statistically significantly associated with all‐cause mortality {hazard ratio [HR]: 0.61 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48–0.79], P < 0.0001}, cardiovascular mortality [HR: 0.29 (95% CI 0.17–0.50), P < 0.0001], cardiovascular mortality or HF readmission [HR: 0.89 (95% CI 0.80–1.00), P = 0.046], and all‐cause readmissions [HR: 0.90 (95% CI 0.81–0.99), P = 0.038]. Similar results were obtained for the diabetes cohort. However, no association with cause‐specific readmissions was observed.

Conclusions

This nationwide real‐world study indicates that patients with HF, in which majority coexisted with diabetes mellitus, who received SGLT2i were statistically significantly associated with lower risk for all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, cardiovascular mortality or HF readmissions, and all‐cause readmissions, in line with the randomized trials assessing SGLT2i.
Cardiological parameters predict mortality and cardiotoxicity in oncological patients
Authors: Romann Sebastian W. , Finke Daniel , Heckmann Markus B. , Hund Hauke , Giannitsis Evangelos , Katus Hugo A. , Frey Norbert , Lehmann Lorenz H.
Published: November 2023

Aims

Oncological patients suspected at risk for cardiotoxicity are recommended to undergo intensified cardiological surveillance. We investigated the value of cardiac biomarkers and patient‐related risk factors [age, cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs), and cardiac function] for the prediction of all‐cause mortality (ACM) and the development of cardiotoxicity.

Methods and results

Between January 2016 and December 2020, patients with oncological diseases admitted to the Cardio‐Oncology Unit at the Heidelberg University Hospital were included. They were evaluated by medical history, physical examination, 12‐lead electrocardiogram, 2D echocardiography, and cardiac biomarkers [high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs‐cTnT) and N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP)]. The primary endpoint was defined as ACM and the secondary endpoint was defined as cardiotoxicity, as defined by the European Society of Cardiology. Of the 1971 patients enrolled, the primary endpoint was reached by 490 patients (25.7%) with a median of 363.5 [interquartile range (IQR) 121.8, 522.5] days after presentation. Hs‐cTnT of ≥ 7 ng/L [odds ratio (OR) 1.82, P < 0.001] and NT‐proBNP (OR 1.98, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of ACM, while reduced left ventricular ejection fraction was not associated with increased ACM (P = 0.85). The secondary endpoint was reached by 182 patients (9.2%) with a median of 793.5 [IQR 411.2, 1165.0] days. Patients with multiple CVRFs (defined as high risk, n = 886) had an increased risk of cardiotoxicity (n = 100/886, 11.3%; hazard ratio 1.57, P = 0.004). They showed elevated baseline values of hs‐cTnT (OR 1.60, P = 0.006) and NT‐proBNP (OR 4.00, P < 0.001) and had an increased risk of ACM (OR 1.43, P = 0.031).

Conclusions

In cancer patients, CVRF accumulation predicts cardiotoxicity whereas elevated hs‐cTnT or NT‐proBNP levels are associated with ACM. Accordingly, less intensive surveillance protocols may be warranted in patients with low cardiac biomarker levels and absence of CVRFs.
Multiply Unsaturated and ω‐Brominated β‐Ketothioesters for Synthesizing β‐Ketolactams and the Scaffolds of Fully Enolized N‐Hydroxy‐3‐(polyenoyl)pyridine‐2,4‐dione Natural Products
Authors: Kopp Julia , Brückner Reinhard
Published: November 2023

Fully enolized N‐hydroxypyridine‐2,4‐diones with a 3‐enoyl or 3‐dienoyl or 3‐trienoyl substituent (collectively named “3‐polyenoyl substituent“ hereafter) define the core of a number of δ‐lactam natural products. We developed a strategy for establishing such motifs in a convergent and stereoselective manner. The polyenoyl moiety of our target molecules stemmed from simply, two‐fold or three‐fold unsaturated and almost completely enolized ω‐bromo‐β‐ketothioesters, two of which were obtained for the first time. The N‐bound hydroxy group of our target structures originated from an O‐(2,4,6‐trimethoxybenzyl)‐protected β‐(hydroxylamino)propionic ester, first obtained in this study, too. The mentioned building blocks were combined intermolecularly by a thioester hydroxylaminolysis and thereafter intramolecularly by a Williams‐type Dieckmann cyclization. The resulting N‐(2,4,6‐trimethoxybenzyloxy)dihydropyridine‐2,4‐diones were oxidized with CBrCl3 and DBU. The N‐(2,4,6‐trimethoxybenzyloxy)pyridine‐2,4‐diones gained thereby were debenzylated – jointly with their (4‐methoxybenzyl) aryl ether moiety – with F3CCO2H. This liberated the target structures.
Catalytic Hydrolithiation of Guaiazulene: Isolation of Two Isomerically Pure Renewable Feedstock‐Based Cyclopentadienyl Synthons
Authors: Vollgraff Tobias , Sundermeyer Jörg
Published: November 2023

We present an in‐depth study of hydride transfer or proton abstraction at natural product guaiazulene to form guaiazulenide salts (8‐H‐GuaH)Li 1 a and (Gua’’)Na(OEt2) 2. Both carbanions were correctly proposed by Hafner et al. but could never be isolated in isomerically, spectroscopically and analytically pure form so far. Therefore, their use as cyclopentadienyl synthons in organometallic chemistry remained essentially unexplored. Here, we present their synthesis and full characterisation including 2D NMR spectroscopy and two XRD structural analyses. 1 a is isolated in isomerically and chemically pure form via a catalytic variant of olefin hydrolithiation, the addition of LiH to an activated hydrocarbon C=C double bond catalysed by LiAlH4. This atom economic synthesis of a pure organolithium compound from an olefin, LiH or lithium and dihydrogen, respectively, is without precedence. In a follow up report we will demonstrate that these valuable ligand salts can be used as cheap sterically demanding renewable feedstock‐based cyclopentadienyl synthons in the synthesis of homo‐ and heteroleptic late transition metal complexes and catalysts.
Hybrid simulation framework with mixed displacement and force control for fully compatible displacements
Authors: Sepulveda Claudio , Mosqueda Gilberto , Wang Kung‐Juin , Huang Po‐Chia , Huang Cheng‐Wei , Uang Chia‐Ming , Chou Chung‐Che
Published: November 2023

A novel framework for hybrid simulation of the seismic response of structures is presented that employs a mixed displacement and force control strategy. A key feature of this framework is a controller‐based displacement‐to‐force transformation that enables compatible displacements between the numerical and experimental model for force‐controlled degrees of freedom. The framework can be applied within conventional displacement‐based time‐integration algorithms allowing for implementation across a variety of software and hardware architectures; it is demonstrated here using OpenSees software with detailed nonlinear numerical models. This study includes numerical verification of the proposed force control strategy and actual implementation in a hybrid simulation of special moment frames with full‐scale beam‐column subassemblies. In the hybrid tests, the experimental column axial load is applied in force control due to the large stiffness and when combined with lateral seismic loads, results in column local buckling with significant axial shortening. The hybrid simulation results verify that the proposed mixed displacement and force control strategy effectively enforces displacement compatibility and force equilibrium between the numerical and experimental structures at the boundary degrees of freedom.
Convolutional neural network for identifying effective seismic force at a DRM layer for rapid reconstruction of SH ground motions
Authors: Maharjan Shashwat , Guidio Bruno , Jeong Chanseok
Published: November 2023

We introduce a novel data‐informed convolutional neural network (CNN) approach that utilizes sparse ground motion measurements to accurately identify effective seismic forces in a truncated two‐dimensional (2D) domain. Namely, this paper presents the first prototype of a CNN capable of inferring domain reduction method (DRM) forces, equivalent to incident waves, across all nodes in the DRM layer. It achieves this from sparse measurement data in a multidimensional setting, even in the presence of incoherent incident waves. The method is applied to shear (SH) waves propagating into a domain truncated by a wave‐absorbing boundary condition (WABC). By effectively training the CNN using input‐layer features (surface sensor measurements) and output‐layer features (effective forces at a DRM layer), we achieve significant reductions in processing time compared to PDE‐constrained optimization methods. The numerical experiments demonstrate the method's effectiveness and robustness in identifying effective forces, equivalent to incoherent incident waves, at a DRM layer.
Dietary acrylamide exposure and health risk assessment of pregnant women: A case study from Türkiye
Authors: Pekmezci Hilal , Basaran Burhan
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to determine the acrylamide exposure of pregnant women resulting from the consumption of bread, coffee, and French fries and to evaluate it in terms of carcinogenic and non‐carcinogenic health risks. Retrospective 24‐h food consumption data of pregnant women (n = 487) was obtained using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Dietary acrylamide exposure was calculated according to a deterministic model, and the data were assessed by hazard index (HI) and carcinogenic risk (CR). The mean daily acrylamide exposure of pregnant women aged 18–30 and ≥31 years and in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimesters was 31.4, 35.4, 38.7, 31.3, and 32.4 μg/day, respectively. The acrylamide exposure data were not significantly different among different age groups and pregnancy periods (p > .05). Dietary acrylamide exposure in pregnant women of different age groups and trimesters may cause significant and serious health problems in terms of carcinogenic risk. According to their level of contribution to average acrylamide exposure, the foods were ranked as follows: French fries> bread> coffee. There is a significant risk of cancer due to exposure to acrylamide from French fries and bread other than coffee. The findings suggest that pregnant women should avoid consuming French fries, bread, and coffee with high acrylamide levels for both their own health and their newborns' health.
Preserving Cultural Diversity in Rural Africa Using Renewable Energy
Authors: Roduner Emil , Rohwer Egmont R.
Published: November 2023

Ninety percent of the large interior, rural part of Africa is not an abundant user of fossil fuels and is not connected to an electricity grid. This limits habitability and leads to significant migration to larger cities in attempts to improve economic and social welfare, which happens at the cost of its rich cultural diversity by inevitable adaption and mixing of societies. A direct transition from a firewood to an off‐grid renewable electricity age can mitigate this detrimental development. This perspective discusses the interdisciplinary requirements linking cultural, sociological, economic, and technical aspects for a transition to modern life without loss of valuable traditions. Photovoltaic power and wind energy can provide local affordable electricity in off‐grid locations. Intermediate storage for day–night cycles is catered for by novel types of batteries. Purifying and recycling water, refrigerating food and medicine, and benefitting from contact with the world via electronic media permit a tremendous increase in living conditions and significantly lower the pressure of migration into cities. Access to energy is a fundamental requirement for the preservation of the rich cultural diversity with family and tribal bindings, local languages, traditions, and religions, and allows for a more moderate transition to a modern society.
The SMART model of work design: A higher order structure to help see the wood from the trees
Authors: Parker Sharon K. , Knight Caroline
Published: November 2023

We propose a new work design model, SMART work design, that identifies five higher order categories of work characteristics, including stimulating work characteristics (task variety, skill variety, information processing requirements, and problem‐solving requirements), mastery work characteristics (job feedback, feedback from others, and role clarity), autonomous work characteristics (decision‐making autonomy, timing autonomy, and method autonomy), relational work characteristics (social support, task significance, and beneficiary contact), and tolerable work characteristics (low levels of: role overload, work–home conflict, and role conflict). Higher order confirmatory factor analysis of working participants provided initial evidence of this structure (Study 1, N = 1107), which was replicated in an additional dataset (Study 2, time 1, N = 709). To provide further evidence, we examined Study 2 data across three waves (N = 573) to show that each higher order factor at time 1 predicted time 3 job satisfaction either directly or via the theorized time 2 mediators (challenge appraisals, work meaningfulness, fulfillment of relatedness needs, and activated negative affect). In Study 3 (N = 108), employees' scores on specific higher order variables correlated with leader ratings of performance in the expected ways. The SMART work design model provides a unique integrating and multidimensional theory of work design that extends beyond existing models. The model can be used to facilitate the synthesis of research knowledge and guide scholars and practitioners to diagnose and address contemporary work design challenges.
Performance of precipitation phase partitioning methods and their impact on snowpack evolution in a humid continental climate
Authors: Leroux Nicolas R. , Vionnet Vincent , Thériault Julie M.
Published: November 2023

Accurate estimations of the precipitation phase at the surface are critical for hydrological and snowpack modelling in cold regions. Precipitation phase partitioning methods (PPMs) vary in their ability to estimate the precipitation phase at around 0°C and can significantly impact simulations of snowpack accumulation and melt. The goal of this study is to evaluate PPMs of varying complexity using high‐quality observations of precipitation phase and to assess the impact on snowpack simulations. We used meteorological data collected in Edmundston, New Brunswick, Canada, during the 2021 Saint John River Experiment on Cold Season Storms (SAJESS). These data were combined with manual observations of snow depth. Five PPMs commonly used in hydrological models were tested against observations from a laser‐optical disdrometer and a Micro Rain Radar. Most PPMs produced similar accuracy in estimating only rainfall and snowfall. Mixed precipitation was the most difficult phase to predict. The multi‐physics model Crocus was then used to simulate snowpack evolution and to diagnose model sensitivity to snowpack accumulation processes (PPM, snowfall density, and snowpack compaction). Sixteen snowpack accumulation periods, including nine warm accumulation events (average temperatures above −2°C) were observed during the study period. When considering all accumulation events, simulated changes in snow water equivalent (SWE) were more sensitive to the type of PPM used, whereas simulated changes in snow depth were more sensitive to uncertainties in snowfall density. Choice of PPM was the main source of model sensitivity for changes in SWE and snow depth when only considering warm events. Overall, this study highlights the impact of precipitation phase estimations on snowpack accumulation at the surface during near‐0°C conditions.
Effects of metronidazole on colorectal cancer occurrence and colorectal cancer liver metastases by regulating Fusobacterium nucleatum in mice
Authors: Wang Maijian , Li Yong , Yang Xuefeng , Liu Zhenxing , Wang Kai , Gong Dengmei , Li Jida
Published: November 2023

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths. Metronidazole (MNZ) is exceedingly implicated in CRC. This study explored the roles of MNZ in mouse CRC occurrence and liver metastasis (CRLM).

Methods

Male BALB/c nude mice were subjected to CRC and CRLM modeling, orally administration with MNZ (1 g/L) 1 week before modeling, and disease activity index (DAI) evaluation. Fresh stool and anal swab samples were collected on the morning of the 28th day after modeling. The relative expression of Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) DNA was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. After euthanasia, tumor tissues and liver tissues were separated and the tumor volume and weight change were measured. The liver tissues were stained with hematoxylin–eosin to quantitatively analyze the metastatic liver nodules. Malignant tumor biomarker Ki67 protein levels in liver tissues/DNA from stool samples were detected by immunohistochemistry/high‐throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Bioinformatics analysis was performed on the raw sequence data to analyze microbial community richness (Chao1 index, ACE index) and microbial community diversity (Shannon index).

Results

The DAI and F. nucleatum DNA relative expression in feces and anal swabs of the CRC and CRLM groups were raised and repressed after MNZ intervention. MNZ repressed tumor occurrence and growth in mice to a certain extent, alleviated CRLM malignant degree (reduced liver metastases and Ki67‐positive cell density/number), and suppressed CRC liver metastasis by regulating intestinal flora structure, which affected the intestinal characteristic flora of CRC and CRLM mice.

Conclusion

MNZ suppressed CRC occurrence and CRLM in mice by regulating intestinal F. nucleatum.
Recurrent diphtheria outbreaks in Nigeria: A review of the underlying factors and remedies
Authors: Abdulrasheed Nasir , Lawal Lukman , Mogaji Abdulazeez B. , Abdulkareem Ahmed O. , Shuaib Abdulrahman K. , Adeoti Sodiq G. , Amosu Opeyemi P. , Muhammad‐Olodo Abdulmujeeb O. , Lawal Abdulwahab O. , Jaji Tawakalitu A. , Abdul‐Rahman Toufik
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The introduction of the diphtheria−tetanus−pertussis (DTP) vaccine into childhood immunization programs resulted in its widespread elimination in high‐income countries. However, Nigeria is currently experiencing an outbreak. The primary cause of diphtheria outbreaks and its high mortality rates in Nigeria was waning herd immunity due to low DTP coverage and a lack of diphtheria antitoxin (DAT), respectively. However, the underlying causes of Nigeria's low DTP coverage and DAT supply remain unknown.

Method

Relevant studies and reports included in our review were obtained by a search through Google Scholar, PubMed, and organization websites using the terms “Diphtheria−Pertussis−Tetanus vaccine OR Diphtheria antitoxin and Nigeria OR Diphtheria Outbreak.” All articles considering diphtheria outbreaks, DTP vaccine, and DAT supply in Nigeria were considered without time restriction due to the paucity of data. We used the narrative synthesis approach to critically appraise, analyze, and draw inferences from the selected articles.

Results

The main causes of low DTP coverage are insufficient supply, an inefficient cold chain system, and low uptake due to poor health literacy and negative sociocultural and religious beliefs, whereas the key barriers to DAT availability are insufficient production by pharmaceutical industries because of low demand and priority.

Conclusion

The underlying causes of Nigeria's low DTP coverage and DAT supply are multifactorial. Both short‐term and long‐term measures are needed to control this outbreak and prevent future occurrences.
Incidence, risk factors, and a prognostic nomogram for distant metastasis in endometrial cancer: A SEER‐based study
Authors: Zheng Yunfeng , Jiang Peng , Tu Yuan , Huang Yuzhen , Wang Jinyu , Gou Shikai , Tian Chenfan , Yuan Rui
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate the metastatic pattern, identify the risk factors, and establish a nomogram for predicting prognosis of endometrial cancer (EC) with distant metastasis.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of women diagnosed with EC was conducted according to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database during 2010–2017. Multivariate logistic analysis and Cox analysis were performed to identify the risk factors in promoting distant metastasis and predictors associated with overall survival (OS) in this particular subpopulation. A nomogram was then constructed and validated by the concordance index (C‐index), the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration plots, and decision curve analysis.

Results

A total of 2799 cases of distant metastasis in EC patients were identified, with an overall incidence rate of 3.74% from 2010 to 2017. Black race, unmarried status, non‐endometrioid histologic types, and grade IV were significant risk factors for distant metastasis in EC patients. Meanwhile, race, histology, grade, metastasis status, surgery, lymphadenectomy, and chemotherapy were identified as independent prognostic factors for OS. A nomogram to predict 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year OS was established, and presented favorable accuracy and clinical applicability. Patients were further divided into high‐ and low‐risk groups according to the model.

Conclusion

The nomogram was developed as a highly accurate, individualized tool to better predict the prognosis of EC patients with distant metastasis, which would help clinicians to identify high‐risk patients, and adjust and tailor their treatment strategies.
Advanced electrocatalysts with unusual active sites for electrochemical water splitting
Authors: Sun Hainan , Xu Xiaomin , Kim Hyunseung , Shao Zongping , Jung WooChul
Published: November 2023

Electrochemical water splitting represents a promising technology for green hydrogen production. To design advanced electrocatalysts, it is crucial to identify their active sites and interpret the relationship between their structures and performance. Materials extensively studied as electrocatalysts include noble‐metal‐based (e.g., Ru, Ir, and Pt) and non‐noble‐metal‐based (e.g., 3d transition metals) compounds. Recently, advancements in characterization techniques and theoretical calculations have revealed novel and unusual active sites. The present review highlights the latest achievements in the discovery and identification of various unconventional active sites for electrochemical water splitting, with a focus on state‐of‐the‐art strategies for determining true active sites and establishing structure–activity relationships. Furthermore, we discuss the remaining challenges and future perspectives for the development of next‐generation electrocatalysts with unusual active sites. By presenting a fresh perspective on the unconventional reaction sites involved in electrochemical water splitting, this review aims to provide valuable guidance for the future study of electrocatalysts in industrial applications.

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A novel Monash Pouch diet in patients with an ileoanal pouch is tolerable and has favorable metabolic luminal effects
Authors: Ardalan Zaid S , Yao Chu K , Green Kraig , Probert Chris , Gill Paul A , Rosella Sam , Muir Jane G , Sparrow Miles P , Gibson Peter R
Published: November 2023

Aims

To evaluate a whole‐food diet strategy (the Monash Pouch diet [MPD]) designed based on the interacting roles dietary factors play with pouch health. Specifically, its tolerability and acceptability, whether it achieved its dietary and metabolic goals, and the effects on symptoms and inflammation were examined.

Methods

In a 6‐week open‐label trial, patients with ileoanal pouches educated on the MPD were assessed regarding diet tolerability and acceptance, food intake (7‐day food diaries), pouch‐related symptoms (clinical pouchitis disease activity index), and, in 24‐h fecal samples, calprotectin, fermentative biomarkers, and volatile organic compounds (VOC).

Results

Of 12 patients, 6 male, mean (SD) age 55 (5) and pouch age 13 (2) years, one withdrew with partial small bowel obstruction. Tolerability was excellent in 9 (75%) and acceptance was high (81%). Targeted changes in dietary intake were achieved. Fecal branched‐ to short‐chain fatty acid ratio increased by median 60 [IQR: 11–80]% (P = 0.02). Fecal VOCs for 3 compounds were also increased, 2‐methyl‐5‐propan‐2‐ylcyclohexa‐1,3‐diene (Fold‐change [FC] 2.08), 1,3,3‐trimethyl‐2‐oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (FC 3.86), propan‐2‐ol (FC 2.10). All six symptomatic patients achieved symptomatic remission (P = 0.03). Fecal calprotectin at baseline was 292 [176–527] μg/g and at week 5 was 205 [148–310] μg/g (P = 0.72).

Conclusion

Well tolerated and accepted, the MPD achieved targeted changes in intakes and fermentation of carbohydrates relative to that of protein. There were signals of improvement in symptoms. These results indicate the need for a randomized‐controlled trial. (Trial registration: ACTRN12621000374864; https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12621000374864.aspx).
Long non‐coding RNA linc00659 promotes tumour progression by regulating FZD6/Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway in colorectal cancer via m6A reader IGF2BP1
Authors: Xu Shufen , Liu Zichun , Luo Qian , Chang Lisha , Ding Jie , Xiao Yanan , Zhang Yangyang , Zhou Guoren , Wang Keming
Published: November 2023

Background

Abnormal N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification has become a driving factor in tumour development and progression. The linc00659 is abnormally highly expressed in digestive tract tumours and promotes cancer progression, but there is little research on the mechanism of linc00659 and m6A.

Methods

The expression of linc00659 in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues and cells was assessed by a quantitative real‐time PCR. The proliferative capacity of CRC cells was determined by colony formation, Cell Counting Kit‐8 and 5‐ethynyl‐2 deoxyuridine assays, and the migratory capacity of CRC was determined by wound healing and transwell assays and tube formation. In vivo, a xenograft tumour model was used to detect the effect of linc00659 on tumour growth. The Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway and related protein expression levels were measured by western blotting. The binding of linc00659 to insulin‐like growth factor 2 mRNA‐binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1) was assessed by RNA pull‐down and an immunoprecipitation assay. The effect of IGF2BP1 on FZD6 was detected by an RNA stability assay.

Results

The expression of linc00659 was abnormally elevated in CRC tissues and cells compared to normal colonic tissues and cells. We confirm that linc00659 promotes the growth of CRC cells both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, linc00659 binds to IGF2BP1 and specifically enhances its activity to stabilize the target gene FZD6. Therefore, linc00659 and IGF2BP1 activate the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway, promoting cell proliferation in CRC.

Conclusions

Our results show that linc00659 and IGF2BP1 cooperate to promote the stability of the target FZD6 mRNA, thereby facilitating CRC progression, which may represent a potential diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic target for CRC.
Mentoring and Well‐Being in Higher Education
Authors: Orsini Jonathan
Published: November 2023

There has been an explosion of research on the well‐being of university students and faculty across a diverse set of disciplines across higher education. The symposium provides a brief review connecting the scholarship of mentorship with growing research on well‐being in academia. Specifically, the current paper focuses on well‐being outcomes for both mentors and mentees, considering undergraduates, graduates, and faculty, and concludes by discussing various avenues for further research.
Compartmentalized ciliation changes of oligodendrocytes in aged mouse optic nerve
Authors: Ning Ke , Tran Matthew , Kowal Tia J. , Mesentier‐Louro Louise A. , Sendayen Brent E. , Wang Qing , Lo Chien‐Hui , Li Tingting , Majumder Rishab , Luo Jian , Hu Yang , Liao Yaping Joyce , Sun Yang
Published: November 2023

Primary cilia are microtubule‐based sensory organelles that project from the apical surface of most mammalian cells, including oligodendrocytes, which are myelinating cells of the central nervous system (CNS) that support critical axonal function. Dysfunction of CNS glia is associated with aging‐related white matter diseases and neurodegeneration, and ciliopathies are known to affect CNS white matter. To investigate age‐related changes in ciliary profile, we examined ciliary length and frequency in the retinogeniculate pathway, a white matter tract commonly affected by diseases of aging but in which expression of cilia has not been characterized. We found expression of Arl13b, a marker of primary cilia, in a small group of Olig2‐positive oligodendrocytes in the optic nerve, optic chiasm, and optic tract in young and aged C57BL/6 wild‐type mice. While the ciliary length and ciliated oligodendrocyte cells were constant in young mice in the retinogeniculate pathway, there was a significant increase in ciliary length in the anterior optic nerve as compared to the aged animals. Morphometric analysis confirmed a specific increase in the ciliation rate of CC1+/Olig2+ oligodendrocytes in aged mice compared with young mice. Thus, the prevalence of primary cilia in oligodendrocytes in the visual pathway and the age‐related changes in ciliation suggest that they may play important roles in white matter and age‐associated optic neuropathies.
Verification of Si wafer first‐order phonon peaks for reliable calibration of Raman microscopes
Authors: Itoh Nobuyasu
Published: November 2023

Raman microscopes are widely used in various fields and their spectral resolutions differ greatly depending on the system and optical components. Thus, the microscopes must be calibrated before measurement to obtain reliable results. Although the first‐order phonon peak of Si wafers at ⁓520 cm−1 is generally used as a calibrant of Raman microscopes, not only is it unclear how the positions of the first‐order phonon peaks are comparable over Si wafers of different manufacturers, dopant types and crystal orientations, but they also shift with the temperature and residual stress. We examined the changes in the position of the first‐order phonon peak at different temperatures using a HeNe laser at 633 nm and its plasma lines. Because a comparable linear relationship between the temperature and the wavenumber was obtained regardless of the Si wafer examined, most commercially available Si wafers can be used for the calibration of Raman microscopes. Although shifting of the peak was introduced by the laser power due to an increase in temperature at the laser spot, it was less sensitive than broadening of the peak width. A peak shift was observed with a 532‐nm laser at 2.1 mW using a 100× air objective lens (numerical aperture: 0.9), but this did not occur with a 633‐ or 785‐nm laser even at more than 10 mW. Thus, less laser power should be used to calibrate Raman microscopes using the first‐order phonon peak of Si wafers under high‐resolution conditions, especially for a 532‐nm laser.
Survival, cause‐specific mortality, and population growth of white‐tailed deer in western Virginia
Authors: Clevinger Garrett B. , Ford W. Mark , Kelly Marcella J. , Alonso Robert S. , DeYoung Randy W. , Lafon Nelson W. , Cherry Michael J.
Published: November 2023

Understanding the role of recruitment in population dynamics of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is important for management. In the central Appalachian Mountains, deer are part of a largely forested ecosystem that supports 3 carnivore species thought to be capable of influencing white‐tailed deer recruitment: black bears (Urus americanus), coyotes (Canis latrans), and bobcats (Lynx rufus). Yet little is known about predation, how other environmental factors influence recruitment, or the importance of neonate survival to white‐tailed deer population performance in the region. Our objectives were to identify causes of mortality for neonates, analyze effects of landscape attributes on survival of neonates, estimate survival rates for neonates and adult female white‐tailed deer, and to model population growth trends based on current vital rates and hypothetical harvest and neonate survival scenarios. During 2019–2020, we captured 57 neonate deer in Bath County, Virginia, USA, by monitoring 38 pregnant females equipped with global positioning system collars and vaginal implant transmitters and by conducting transect searches for recently born neonates. We observed 37 neonate mortalities and identified cause of death using field and genetic evidence. Mortalities included 28 predation events and 9 deaths from other causes (e.g., abandonment, malnutrition, disease). Black bears accounted for 48.6% of neonate mortalities, and 64.2% of predation events (n = 18), followed by bobcats (n = 5) and coyotes (n = 3). Annual survival for adult female deer was 0.871 and neonate survival to 12 weeks old was 0.310. Elevation was a significant predictor of neonate survival; mortality risk increased 20% for every 100‐m increase in elevation. Models of annual population growth using observed vital rates predicted an increasing population (λ = 1.10). A 10% increase in female harvest would still result in a potential population increase of 2% (λ = 1.02), but a 20% increase in harvest rate would result in a potential 7% decline (λ = 0.93). Neonate survival was higher near fertile valley bottoms and lower along forested ridges characterized by shallow, infertile soils and limited edge or early successional forests. While predation, largely influenced by black bears, was the leading cause of neonate mortality and contributed to low neonate survival, we observed little evidence of population decline, and suggest there is opportunity for a modest increase in harvest of female deer.
Cyclical prey shortages for a marine polar predator driven by the interaction of climate change and natural climate variability
Authors: Lohmann Amanda C. , Morton Joseph P. , Schofield Oscar M. , Nowacek Douglas P.
Published: November 2023

Between 1992 and 2018, the breeding population of Adélie penguins around Anvers Island, Antarctica declined by 98%. In this region, natural climate variability drives five‐year cycling in marine phytoplankton productivity, leading to phase‐offset five‐year cycling in the size of the krill population. We demonstrate that the rate of change of the Adélie breeding population also shows five‐year cycling. We link this population response to cyclical krill scarcity, a phenomenon which appears to have arisen from the interaction between climate variability and climate change trends. Modeling suggests that, since at least 1980, natural climate variability has driven cycling in this marine system. However, anthropogenic climate change has shifted conditions so that fewer years in each cycle now prompt strong krill recruitment, triggering intervals of krill scarcity that result in drastic declines in Adélie penguins. Our results imply that climate change can amplify the impacts of natural climate oscillations across trophic levels, driving cycling across species and disrupting food webs. The findings indicate that climate variability plays an integral role in driving ecosystem dynamics under climate change.
Reduced snow and increased nutrients show enhanced ice‐associated photoautotrophic growth using a modified experimental under‐ice design
Authors: Knoll Lesley B. , Fry Benton , Hayes Nicole M. , Sauer Hailey M.
Published: November 2023

Under‐ice photoautotrophs in lakes are generally considered to be limited by light rather than nutrients. Despite reduced light intensity under the ice, there is increasing evidence that suggests some lakes support high levels of photoautotrophs. We explored how snow cover (i.e., light) and nutrients (i.e., nitrogen and phosphorus) influence ice‐associated photoautotroph growth in a Minnesota, USA lake. Using a novel under‐ice approach, we deployed nutrient diffusing substrates (single or combined nutrient amendments) under two different light scenarios (snow covered, reduced light; snow removed, increased light) near the water‐ice interface to mimic a range of conditions ice‐associated photoautotrophs may be exposed to. Natural snow cover reduced light compared with snow removal, particularly early in the experiment before snow began to melt. When comparing photoautotroph chlorophyll a (Chl a) between snow treatments, we found a significant snow effect with higher concentrations in the snow removed treatment. We also found a significant nutrient effect, for all nutrient treatments, on Chl a concentrations in both snow conditions. The effect of any nutrient treatment on Chl a concentrations was similar. Our results suggest that ice‐associated photoautotrophs were able to grow in all snow conditions, but snow removal resulted in higher growth and nutrient availability also mediated responses. Thus, both light and nutrient conditions in the winter may strongly affect ice‐associated photoautotroph dynamics.