bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case report of anorexia nervosa in a 23‐year‐old Ethiopian woman
Authors: Tessema Selamawit Alemayehu , Megersa Surafel Worku , Abebe Meskerem , Ayalew Hailegiorgis Getnet , Tigabu Melat
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Messages

Limited studies on AN in Africa, including Ethiopia. Internet and media have changed body image portrayal in developing countries. A need for a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, training on positive coaching styles, and future research.

The Global Burden of Disease had estimated anorexia nervosa (AN) or bulimia nervosa to be 13.6 million people. The lifetime prevalence of AN ranges from 2.4 to 4.3 percent. During their lifetime, up to 4% of females and up to 0.3% of males suffer from anorexia nervosa. Studies assessing AN in Africa, including Ethiopia, are limited. This case report describes a 23‐year‐old female patient who presented with anorectic symptoms and signs in Ethiopia. This case report describes a 23‐year‐old female patient who participated in sports activities. She had a low body weight based on a BMI of 13.15 kg/m2 and lost around 10 kg within the past 6 months. She feared gaining weight or becoming fat, thus restricting food intake. The findings on psychiatric evaluation encompassing detailed history and mental state examination suggested the diagnosis of Extreme anorexia nervosa, restricting type; adult malnutrition; major depressive disorder (MDD) (in remission); low risk of aggression; low risk of suicide; severe functional impairment. The general management principles implemented in this patient included assessment of medical complications, weight restoration, psychological intervention, medication for comorbid depression, and long‐term psychological and biological treatment follow‐up to avoid relapse. The presented case of a 23‐year‐old Ethiopian female patient who is athletic shows weight‐controlled sports activities and the manifestation of anorexia nervosa. Easy access to the Internet and media has changed body image portrayal in developing countries including Ethiopia. There is a need for a multidisciplinary approach involving psychiatrists, psychologists, internists, and nutritionists for the management of AN. The early screening and management of medical complications are crucial. There is a need for close monitoring of vital signs, restriction of caffeine, excess fluid, and salt, and limiting excessive exercise. Furthermore, to assess micronutrient deficiencies, vitamin supplements should be prescribed in the form of multivitamin and thiamine preparations. The need for future training about positive coaching styles for coaches is mandatory to reduce the future impacts on young athletes. There is a need for future research on eating disorders in developing countries such as Ethiopia.
In situ Generation of Aldehydes for Subsequent Biocatalytic Cascade Reactions in Whole Cells
Authors: Suchy Lydia , Rudroff Florian
Published: November 2023

Aldehydes represent valuable precursors for chemical compounds. However, the incorporation of aldehydes in whole‐cell‐based synthetic enzyme cascades is problematic. Due to their toxicity, they are metabolized to the corresponding alcohols or carboxylic acids by the host enzymatic background. Previous research has shown that these endogenous side reactions can be reversed by alcohol dehydrogenase (AlkJ, Pseudomonas putida) and carboxylic acid reductase (CARNi, Nocardia iowensis) in Escherichia coli. Thereby, the aldehyde is available for further enzymatic conversion to a product of choice. Three different enzymes were incorporated into the concept for the transformation of the aldehyde intermediate: A pyruvate decarboxylase (PDCApE469Q, Acetobacter pasteurianus), ω‐transaminase (ω‐TAVf, Vibrio fluvialis) and imine reductase (IREDCf, Cystobacter ferrugineus). (R)‐Phenylacetylcarbinol and a range of primary and secondary amines were obtained as final products. Either the alcohol, the carboxylic acid or a 50 : 50 mixture could be employed as starting material.
Efficient Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysts for Rechargeable Zn−air Batteries Derived from Ni‐modified Prussian Blue
Authors: Wu Haihua , Zhai Juanjuan , Wu Feng , Wu Jiahao , Li Yudan , Xu Xin , Gao Yunfang
Published: November 2023

The rational design and exploration of efficient, low‐cost and durable bifunctional electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are key to the development of rechargeable metal−air batteries. Here, we report a novel approach to in‐situ synthesize Fe0.64Ni0.36 nanoalloy encapsulated in nitrogen‐doped porous carbon nanotubes (FeNi@N−CNTs) as bifunctional electrocatalyst derived from Ni‐modified Prussian blue, on which the ORR/OER can be promoted by the N−CNTs surface due to the electron modulation caused by electron transfer from the inner FeNi nanoalloy to the N−CNTs surface. The abundant wide‐size range of mesopores in N−CNTs can offer rapid mass transport channels to facilitate the catalytic reactions. In addition, the encapsulation structure endows the outer N−CNTs acting as a “shield” to prevent the inner FeNi nanoalloy from corrosion in strong basic medium. Thanks to the synergistic effect between the N−CNTs and FeNi nanoalloy, the obtained FeNi@N−CNTs exhibits excellent bifunctional oxygen catalytic activity together with outstanding performance and cycling durability in rechargeable Zn−air battery. This work will open new avenues for the development of advanced bifunctional electrocatalysts for other metal−air batteries.
Synthesis of Heteroarylated Pyridines via a Double C−H Bond Functionalization using Palladium‐catalyzed 1,4‐Migration Combined with Direct Arylation
Authors: Niyaz Vellala Syed Ali Mohamed , Liu Linhao , Ravi Monika , Doucet Henri
Published: November 2023

The C−H bond functionalization of pyridyl C3‐position of 4‐arylpyridines using Pd 1,4‐migration has been investigated. Under suitable reaction conditions, oxidative addition of 4‐(2‐bromoaryl)pyridines to palladium followed by a Pd 1,4‐migration activates these pyridyl C3‐positions. Next, the Pd‐catalyzed coupling via C−H bond activation of the heteroarenes affords the C3‐heteroarylated 4‐arylpyridines. The new C−C bond created in this coupling reaction results from the functionalization of two C−H bonds. For this coupling reaction, a bromo‐substituent on the aryl unit of 4‐arylpyridines was employed as a traceless directing group. This heteroarylation method tolerates a range of substituents on the benzene ring as well as several heteroarenes. Moreover, from 3‐arylpyridines, C2‐ or C4‐functionalization of the pyridine ring also proved possible. In addition, this procedure uses an air‐stable catalyst and an inexpensive base.
Exploring the Influence of the Phosphorus‐Heteroatom Substitution in Nicotine on Its Electronic and Vibrational Spectroscopic Properties
Authors: Taherivardanjani Shima , Wylie Luke , Dötzer Reinhard , Kirchner Barbara
Published: November 2023

The influence of phosphorus substitution of nitrogen in heterocyclic compounds on the vibrational spectroscopy as well as frontier molecular orbitals are analyzed. Nicotine with two nitrogen atoms in its structure is taken as the sample system to be studied computationally. By replacing the nitrogen atom in one or both rings of this molecule with phosphorus, three nicotine derivatives are created. The vibrational circular dichroism and infrared spectra of these four molecules in their monomer state, as well as the assemblies up to trimers are determined. The aforementioned spectra are calculated using static quantum chemical calculations employing a cluster‐weighted approach. The calculated gas phase spectra of nicotine are compared to their respective experimental spectra. It is observed that the nicotine derivatives with phosphorus in the methylpyrrolidine ring have considerably different gas phase and bulk phase vibrational circular dichroism spectra when compared to nicotine. The phosphorus substitution reduces the energy gap between the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital as well as altering the polarizability and reactivity of the investigated molecules.
Merging Photocatalytic Doubly‐Decarboxylative Csp2−Csp2 Cross‐Coupling for Stereo‐Selective (E)‐α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones Synthesis
Authors: Mondal Subal , Midya Siba P. , Mondal Soumya , Das Suman , Ghosh Pradyut
Published: November 2023

A photocatalytic domain of doubly decarboxylative Csp2−Csp2 cross coupling reaction is disclosed. Merging iridium and palladium photocatalysis manifested carbon‐carbon bonds in a tandem dual‐radical pathway. Present catalytic platform efficiently cross‐coupled α, β‐unsaturated acids and α‐keto acids to afford a variety of α, β‐unsaturated ketones with excellent (E)‐selectivity and functional group tolerance. Mechanistically, photocatalyst implicated through reductive quenching cycle whereas cross coupling proceeded over one electron oxidative pallado‐cycle.
Quo Vadis CO2 Activation: Catalytic Reduction of CO2 to Methanol Using Aluminum and Gallium/Carbon‐based Ambiphiles
Authors: Krämer Felix , Paradies Jan , Fernández Israel , Breher Frank
Published: November 2023

We report on so‐called “hidden FLPs” (FLP: frustrated Lewis pair) consisting of a phosphorus ylide featuring a group 13 fragment in the ortho position of a phenyl ring scaffold to form five‐membered ring structures. Although the formation of the Lewis acid/base adducts was observed in the solid state, most of the title compounds readily react with carbon dioxide to provide stable insertion products. Strikingly, 0.3–3.0 mol% of the reported aluminum and gallium/carbon‐based ambiphiles catalyze the reduction of CO2 to methanol with satisfactory high selectivity and yields using pinacol borane as stoichiometric reduction equivalent. Comprehensive computational studies provided valuable mechanistic insights and shed more light on activity differences.
Large‐Area Gravure‐Printed AgNWs Electrode on Water/Oxygen Barrier Substrate for Long‐Term Stable Large‐Area Flexible Organic Solar Cells†
Authors: Wang Hao , Pan Yaqin , Han Yunfei , Chen Zhuo , Liu Tianyu , Zhang Lianping , Luo Qun , Ma Chang‐Qi
Published: November 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Large‐area AgNWs electrodes (25 cm × 10 cm) were fabricated through roll‐to‐roll printing on the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) modified water and oxygen barrier substrate. The modification of the barrier film with PVA improved the wettability of silver nanowires on the barrier films and led to the formation of homogenous large‐area AgNWs networks. The mechanical flexibility, especially the adhesion force between the silver electrode and the barrier film substrate was dramatically improved through PVA modification. The efficiency of 13.51% for the flexible OSCs with an area of 0.64 cm2 was achieved based on the PET/barrier film/PVA/AgNWs electrode. The long‐term stability showed the flexible OSCs based on the PET/barrier film/PVA/AgNWs electrode have a significantly improved stability relative to the device on PET/AgNWs electrode, and comparable air stability as the rigid device with glass/ITO device. The unencapsulated devices maintained nearly 50% of the original efficiency after storage for 600 h in air. After a simple top encapsulation, the flexible devices remained at 60% of the initial efficiency after 2000 h in the air. Therefore, the flexible AgNWs electrode based on the barrier film would have the potential to improve the air storage stability of organic flexible solar cells.
Immunohistochemical phenotype of sensory neurons associated with sympathetic plexuses in the trigeminal ganglia of adult nerve growth factor transgenic mice
Authors: Alsaadi Hanin , Peller Jacob , Ghasemlou Nader , Kawaja Michael D.
Published: November 2023

Following peripheral nerve injury, postganglionic sympathetic axons sprout into the affected sensory ganglia and form perineuronal sympathetic plexuses with somata of sensory neurons. This sympathosensory coupling contributes to the onset and persistence of injury‐induced chronic pain. We have documented the presence of similar sympathetic plexuses in the trigeminal ganglia of adult mice that ectopically overexpress nerve growth factor (NGF), in the absence of nerve injury. In this study, we sought to further define the phenotype(s) of these trigeminal sensory neurons having sympathetic plexuses in our transgenic mice. Using quantitative immunofluorescence staining analyses, we show that the invading sympathetic axons specifically target sensory somata immunopositive for several biomarkers: NGF high‐affinity receptor tyrosine kinase A (trkA), calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP), neurofilament heavy chain (NFH), and P2X purinoceptor 3 (P2X3). Based on these phenotypic characteristics, the majority of the sensory somata surrounded by sympathetic plexuses are likely to be NGF‐responsive nociceptors (i.e., trkA expressing) that are peptidergic (i.e., CGRP expressing), myelinated (i.e., NFH expressing), and ATP sensitive (i.e., P2X3 expressing). Our data also show that very few sympathetic plexuses surround sensory somata expressing other nociceptive (pain) biomarkers, including substance P and acid‐sensing ion channel 3. No sympathetic plexuses are associated with sensory somata that display isolectin B4 binding. Though the cellular mechanisms that trigger the formation of sympathetic plexus (with and without nerve injury) remain unknown, our new observations yield an unexpected specificity with which invading sympathetic axons appear to target a precise subtype of nociceptors. This selectivity likely contributes to pain development and maintenance associated with sympathosensory coupling.
Ab initio Modeling of Hydrogen Bonding of Remdesivir and Adenosine with Uridine
Authors: Vishwakarma Kamini , Ravi Satyam , Mittal Sumit
Published: November 2023

Remdesivir (RDV) emerged as an effective drug against the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus pandemic. One of the crucial steps in the mechanism of action of RDV is its incorporation into the growing RNA strand. RDV, an adenosine analogue, forms Watson‐Crick (WC) type hydrogen bonds with uridine in the complementary strand and the strength of this interaction will control efficacy of RDV. While there is a plethora of structural and energetic information available about WC H‐bonds in natural base pairs, the interaction of RDV with uridine has not been studied yet at the atomic level. In this article, we aim to bridge this gap, to understand RDV and its hydrogen bonding interactions, by employing density functional theory (DFT) at the M06‐2X/cc‐pVDZ level. The interaction energy, QTAIM analysis, NBO and SAPT2 are performed for RDV, adenosine, and their complex with uridine to gain insights into the nature of hydrogen bonding. The computations show that RDV has similar geometry, energetic, molecular orbitals, and aromaticity as adenosine, suggesting that RDV is an effective adenosine analogue. The important geometrical parameters, such as bond distances and red‐shift in the stretching vibrational modes of adenosine, RDV and uridine identify two WC‐type H‐bonds. The relative strength of these two H‐bonds is computed using QTAIM parameters and the computed hydrogen bond energy. Finally, the SAPT2 study is performed at the minima and at non‐equilibrium base pair distances to understand the dominant intermolecular physical force. This study, based on a thorough analysis of a variety of computations, suggests that both adenosine and RDV have similar structure, energetic, and hydrogen bonding behaviour.
Self‐rated personality disorder symptoms do not predict treatment outcome for posttraumatic stress disorder in routine clinical care
Authors: van den End Arne , Beekman Aartjan T. F. , Dekker Jack , Thomaes Kathleen
Published: November 2023

Objective

To test the hypothesis that self‐rated personality disorder (PD) symptoms are a significant and clinically relevant predictor of treatment outcomes in a naturalistic treatment setting specialized in trauma‐focused treatment using a single‐group pretest–posttest design.

Method

Treatment‐seeking patients reporting clinical levels of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms filled out questionnaires at intake and after treatment. The primary outcome was change in PTSD severity after treatment, measured by the PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5 (PCL‐5). PD symptoms were measured with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐5 Screening Personality Questionnaire (SCID‐5‐SPQ). Secondary outcomes were general mental health problems, treatment response, number of sessions and dropout.

Results

N = 1174 patients (59% female, baseline PCL‐5 score M [SD] = 53.0 [10.8]) were included for the primary analysis. Regression analysis revealed that PD symptoms explained 0.4% of variance in PTSD symptom change (p = .066). After controlling for baseline PTSD symptoms, PD symptoms explained 0.0% of variance (p = .311). The fully adjusted model including baseline PTSD symptom severity, age, gender, cumulative exposure to potentially traumatic experiences, PD symptoms, and number of sessions together explained 5% of the observed variance in PTSD symptom change. Baseline PTSD severity was the only significant predictor and negatively predicted outcome. Sensitivity analyses with imputed data from N = 2694 cases yielded comparable results. Finally, secondary analyses showed that PD symptoms did not predict significant or clinically relevant changes in treatment response status, general mental health problems, dropout rates or number of sessions.

Conclusion

The findings provide no evidence that self‐rated PD symptoms predict treatment outcomes for patients suffering from clinical levels of PTSD symptoms in a naturalistic treatment setting specializing in trauma‐focused treatment. Self‐report screening for these symptoms to inform clinicians about expected effects of PTSD treatment is not supported by the evidence.
A statistical method of GPS spoofing detection using power spectral density for hardware
Authors: Tanış Mustafa , Erhan Yalçın Müştak
Published: November 2023

Location and navigation information has become an important part of our lives. GPS data is vital in many areas from transportation to economy, from energy to security. The alteration of this information can have deleterious downstream effects that cannot be reversed. Today, it is possible to attack GPS data with accessible hardware and open source software. In this paper, the signal obtained with the help of a transceiver that samples the high frequency RF signals down to the intermediate frequency was compared with the RMS value by windowing over PSD. Then this data was statistically analyzed with the NIST runs test. In order to realize GPS signal spoofing in a short time that after GPS receiver lock the spoofing signal, field programmable gates connected to the transceiver were used. The results obtained varied according to the dimensions of the windowing process, and it was understood that the window size was in a correlation with the detection of deception in a short time. The suggested method's key benefit is its simplicity, which makes it adaptable to various GNSS systems.
Annual banned‐substance review 16th edition—Analytical approaches in human sports drug testing 2022/2023
Authors: Thevis Mario , Kuuranne Tiia , Geyer Hans
Published: November 2023

In this 16th edition of the annual banned‐substance review on analytical approaches in human sports drug testing, literature on recent developments in this particular section of global anti‐doping efforts that was published between October 2022 and September 2023 is summarized and discussed. Most recent additions to the continuously growing portfolio of doping control analytical approaches and investigations into analytical challenges in the context of adverse analytical findings are presented, taking into account existing as well as emerging challenges in anti‐doping, with specific focus on substances and methods of doping recognized in the World Anti‐Doping Agency's 2023 Prohibited List. As in previous years, focus is put particularly on new or enhanced analytical options in human doping controls, appreciating the exigence and core mission of anti‐doping and, equally, the conflict arising from the opposingly trending extent of the athlete's exposome and the sensitivity of instruments nowadays commonly available in anti‐doping laboratories.
Boreal and Lusitanian species display trophic niche variation in temperate waters
Authors: Amelot Morgane , Robert Marianne , Mouchet Maud , Kopp Dorothée
Published: November 2023

Climate change has non‐linear impacts on species distributions and abundance that have cascading effects on ecosystem structure and function. Among them are shifts in trophic interactions within communities. Sites found at the interface between two or more biogeographical regions, where species with diverse thermal preferenda are assembled, are areas of strong interest to study the impact of climate change on communities' interactions. This study examined variation in trophic structure in the Celtic Sea, a temperate environment that hosts a mixture of cold‐affiliated Boreal species and warm‐affiliated Lusitanian species. Using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios, trophic niche area, width, and position were investigated for 10 abundant and commercially important demersal fish species across space and time. In general, the niches of Boreal species appear to be contracting while those of Lusitanian species expand, although there are some fluctuations among species. These results provide evidence that trophic niches can undergo rapid modifications over short time periods (study duration: 2014–2021) and that this process may be conditioned by species thermal preferenda. Boreal species displayed spatial variation in trophic niche width and seem to be facing increased competition with Lusitanian species for food resources. These findings underscore the need to utilize indicators related to species trophic ecology to track the ecosystem alterations induced by climate change. Such indicators could reveal that the vulnerability of temperate ecosystems is currently being underestimated.
The dimensionality reductions of environmental variables have a significant effect on the performance of species distribution models
Authors: Zhang Hao‐Tian , Guo Wen‐Yong , Wang Wen‐Ting
Published: November 2023

How to effectively obtain species‐related low‐dimensional data from massive environmental variables has become an urgent problem for species distribution models (SDMs). In this study, we will explore whether dimensionality reduction on environmental variables can improve the predictive performance of SDMs. We first used two linear (i.e., principal component analysis (PCA) and independent components analysis) and two nonlinear (i.e., kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) and uniform manifold approximation and projection) dimensionality reduction techniques (DRTs) to reduce the dimensionality of high‐dimensional environmental data. Then, we established five SDMs based on the environmental variables of dimensionality reduction for 23 real plant species and nine virtual species, and compared the predictive performance of those with the SDMs based on the selected environmental variables through Pearson's correlation coefficient (PCC). In addition, we studied the effects of DRTs, model complexity, and sample size on the predictive performance of SDMs. The predictive performance of SDMs under DRTs other than KPCA is better than using PCC. And the predictive performance of SDMs using linear DRTs is better than using nonlinear DRTs. In addition, using DRTs to deal with environmental variables has no less impact on the predictive performance of SDMs than model complexity and sample size. When the model complexity is at the complex level, PCA can improve the predictive performance of SDMs the most by 2.55% compared with PCC. At the middle level of sample size, the PCA improved the predictive performance of SDMs by 2.68% compared with the PCC. Our study demonstrates that DRTs have a significant effect on the predictive performance of SDMs. Specifically, linear DRTs, especially PCA, are more effective at improving model predictive performance under relatively complex model complexity or large sample sizes.
The conversion of native savannah into pasturelands does not affect exclusively species diversity: Effects on physiological condition of a highly abundant dung beetle species
Authors: Correa César M. A. , da Silva Kalel Caetano , de Oliveira Pedro Lucas Moreira , Salomão Renato Portela
Published: November 2023

Dung beetles are efficient indicators to obtain responses regarding the effects of land use change on biodiversity. Although the biological consequences of Cerrado conversion into pasture have been observed at the assemblage scale, there are no cues regarding the effects of tropical savanna conversion into pasture on physiological condition of dung beetle individuals. In this study, we evaluated whether native and non‐native habitats in Cerrado affect the physiological condition and body traits of males and females of Phanaeus palaeno. The individuals were collected from a Cerrado fragment (sensu stricto) and an exotic pasture (Urochloa spp.). Physiological condition was assessed through the estimation of individuals' dry body mass, fat mass, and muscle mass. Body traits were estimated through individual body size and males' horn length. We did not find differences between dung beetle morphological traits between Cerrado and pastures. However, individuals collected in exotic pastures had lower dry mass and fat mass, but higher muscle mass, than in conserved Cerrado. Understanding how the land use change affects individuals' body condition is essential to maintain abundant and healthy populations of dung beetles in human‐modified landscapes. Although the estimation of physiological condition is logistically more complex than species body traits, future studies aiming to present complex and finer ecological responses of dung beetles should incorporate physiological data to their approaches.
Reductions in liver enzymes are associated with anti‐hyperglycaemic and anti‐obesity effects of tofogliflozin in people with type 2 diabetes: Post‐hoc analyses
Authors: Takamura Toshinari , Kaku Kohei , Yoshida Akihiro , Kusakabe Hiromi , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Suganami Hideki
Published: November 2023

Aims

How the pathology of type 2 diabetes (T2D), including hyperglycaemia and obesity, affects liver enzymes has not been clinically demonstrated. Thus, we compared time courses of gamma‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) with those of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and body weight (BW) during treatment with the SGLT2 inhibitor tofogliflozin for T2D.

Materials and Methods

We post‐hoc analysed preexisting data on 1046 people with T2D administered tofogliflozin or placebo for 24 weeks in four tofogliflozin studies. First, time courses of percent changes in variables during the intervention were analysed using a mixed effect model to explore the similarity of the time courses and to evaluate time‐treatment interactions. Second, clinical factors related to the percent changes in GGT and ALT were clarified using multivariate analyses.

Results

GGT levels and FPG values rapidly and significantly decreased via tofogliflozin as early as week 4, with decreases maintained until week 24. Conversely, BW and ALT decreased progressively until week 24. Time courses of FPG (p = .365, time‐treatment interaction) and GGT (p = .510) reductions were parallel between tofogliflozin and placebo from weeks 4 to 24, while BW and ALT reductions (p < .001, respectively) were not. Reductions in GGT at week 24 were associated with reductions in FPG and BW at week 24, whereas ALT reductions were only associated with reductions in BW.

Conclusions

Reductions in GGT and ALT were associated with the anti‐hyperglycaemic and anti‐obesity effects of tofogliflozin, respectively, in people with T2D. Therefore, GGT and ALT may be surrogate markers for hyperglycaemia and obesity in T2D.
Association of anaemia on heart failure and left ventricular function: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ying Yuchen , Ye Jiachun , Yuan Zhechen , Cai Dihui
Published: November 2023

Aims

Observational studies have suggested that anaemia is associated with an increased risk of heart failure (HF). But the potential causal association is not clear. We aimed to investigate the association between anaemia and HF risk.

Methods and results

A Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to confirm the causal association of anaemia with the risk of HF and left ventricular structure and function. Furthermore, a reverse‐direction MR analyses was conducted to assess the causal effect of HF on anaemia. The MR analysis indicated that genetically predicted anaemia is associated with the increased risk of HF (meta: odd ratio (OR) = 1.12; 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.04, 1.20]; P = 0.002), and left ventricular mass index (β = 1.051; 95% CI [0.384, 1.718]; P = 0.002), left ventricular mass (β = 2.063; 95% CI [0.578, 3.547]; P = 0.006), left atrial minimum volume (β = 0.076; 95% CI [0.008, 0.143]; P = 0.028), and left atrial maximum volume (β = 0.090; 95% CI [0.023, 0.157]; P = 0.009). In the reverse‐direction MR analyses, we found that genetic susceptibility to HF was significantly associated with the increased risk of anaemia (meta: OR = 1.40; 95% CI [1.24, 1.59]; P = 1.79 × 10−7).

Conclusions

This MR study supports the genetic evidence that there is bidirectional causality between anaemia and the risk of HF as well as anaemia may cause left ventricular hypertrophy and enlargement of the left atrium. Considering the adverse causal effects between the two diseases, more attention should be paid to the prevention and treatment of anaemia in patients with HF.
Utilizing Baylis–Hillman Adducts Followed by Michael Addition/Elimination Reaction for the Synthesis of Unusual Conformationally Stable Molecules Governed by Aromatic Interactions
Authors: Prasad Sharma Vishal , Kumar Vipin , Sonker Priyanka , Yadav Priyanka , Singh Rashmi , Gnanasekaran Ramachandran , Kumar Tewari Ashish
Published: November 2023

The compounds under investigation sought a new approach to synthesis via the Baylis‐Hillman (B−H) and Michael addition reactions. The product formation‘s legitimacy was tested using a repeat reaction with many different nucleophiles. The additional stability of the product via aromatic π⋅⋅⋅π and C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions may result in unexpected product formation in diverse reactions undertaken utilizing different starting materials. This study suggests that weak interaction not only provides selectivity during reactions but also modifies the result.
The role of stigma in health and functioning in chronic pain: Not just catastrophizing
Authors: Lavefjord Amani , Sundström F. T. A. , Buhrman M. , McCracken L. M.
Published: November 2023

Background

People with chronic pain are frequently exposed to stigma, which is typically distressing and may lead to internal stigmatizing thoughts. The thought content associated with stigma has similarities to pain catastrophizing, although these concepts differ in that stigma is arguably more social in origin. Stigma can be measured by the Stigma Scale for Chronic Illness – 8‐item version (SSCI‐8). In this study, we first demonstrate the validity of this measure in Swedish. We then examine the role of stigma in the health and functioning of people with chronic pain, particularly beyond the role played by pain catastrophizing.

Methods

Adult participants (N = 404) with chronic pain recruited online completed measures of pain, stigma, catastrophizing, pain interference, work and social adjustment and depression on two occasions.

Results

A one‐factor solution had an overall good model fit as long as residuals were allowed to covary, indicating some redundancy in the items. The SSCI‐8 demonstrated good internal consistency and moderate temporal stability, and SSCI‐8 scores demonstrated medium‐to‐large correlations with the measures of health and functioning. Furthermore, stigma was found to significantly contribute to explained variance in pain interference, work and social adjustment and depression, uniquely adding to the explained variance in these outcomes even after accounting for pain catastrophizing.

Conclusions

The SSCI‐8 provides an adequate measure to capture stigma experiences. Stigma is uniquely associated with pain‐related outcomes and should be further considered in pain research and clinical practice in the future.

Significance

This study points to the importance of a social perspective on pain‐related outcomes. We may need to more fully appreciate the way that people with chronic pain are treated by both health care providers and others can have an impact on their well‐being. Potential negative impacts of stigmatizing responses to people with chronic pain are highlighted by the current results.
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation mediates benzo(a)pyrene‐induced overexpression of AQP3 and Notch1 in HaCaT cells
Authors: Almendarez‐Reyna Claudia I. , de la Trinidad Chacón Carlos Gabriel , Ochoa‐Martínez Ángeles C. , Rico‐Guerrero Luis A. , Pérez‐Maldonado Iván N.
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was twofold: (1) evaluate the effect of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) on expression levels of AQP3 and Notch1 genes in HaCaT cells exposed “in vitro” and (2) investigate the possible biological role of assessed genes by bioinformatics methods. Cells were exposed to increasing concentrations of BaP (0.0–4.0 μM) for 1–4 days. After treatments, cell viability and expression levels of AhR, CYP1A1, AQP3, and Notch1 genes were evaluated. The possible biological role of assessed genes was evaluated using bioinformatics tools. Low cytotoxicity in HaCaT cells dosed with BaP was detected. A significant overexpression (p < .05) of CYP1A1, AQP3, and Notch1 was found in exposed HaCaT cells. The gene expression upregulation was dependent on AhR activation. The bioinformatics analysis showed that these genes were enriched in related cancer signaling pathways. The findings suggest that AQP3 and Notch1 are upregulated by AhR activation in HaCaT cells exposed to BaP.
Microregion Characterization of Grain Boundary Defects and Electron Capture of CsPbI2Br Perovskite
Authors: Yu Linkai , Zhang Le , Xing Chuwu , Yang Jing , Huang Shuai , Bao Qinghui , Wang Duofa , Zhang Tianjin
Published: November 2023

All‐inorganic CsPbI2Br perovskite solar cell shows superior thermal stability, but the power conversion efficiency falls behind organic devices, due to the existence of abundant defects. Halogen and metal ions at the grain boundaries induce the formation of defect states, which increases the probability of carrier recombination. Grain boundaries are also the channels of ion migration. Herein, as relatively simple interface engineering strategy is used at the molecular level, using a multifunctional 2,5‐thiophene dicarboxylic acid to passivate the interface between the perovskite surface and the carbon electrode. The 2,5‐thiophene dicarboxylic acid can effectively coordinate the undercoordinated Pb2+, reduce the defect concentration of perovskite, and suppress the nonradiative recombination. The device with carbon electrode exhibits a power conversion efficiency of 13.4%. The microscopic passivation mechanism is investigated by Kelvin probe force microscopy. It is observed that the surface treatment effectively passivates the defects at the grain boundary and reduces the capture rate of photogenerated carriers of the grain boundary.
Artificial sensory system based on memristive devices
Authors: Kwon Ju Young , Kim Ji Eun , Kim Jong Sung , Chun Suk Yeop , Soh Keunho , Yoon Jung Ho
Published: November 2023

In the biological nervous system, the integration and cooperation of parallel system of receptors, neurons, and synapses allow efficient detection and processing of intricate and disordered external information. Such systems acquire and process environmental data in real‐time, efficiently handling complex tasks with minimal energy consumption. Memristors can mimic typical biological receptors, neurons, and synapses by implementing key features of neuronal signal‐processing functions such as selective adaption in receptors, leaky integrate‐and‐fire in neurons, and synaptic plasticity in synapses. External stimuli are sensitively detected and filtered by “artificial receptors,” encoded into spike signals via “artificial neurons,” and integrated and stored through “artificial synapses.” The high operational speed, low power consumption, and superior scalability of memristive devices make their integration with high‐performance sensors a promising approach for creating integrated artificial sensory systems. These integrated systems can extract useful data from a large volume of raw data, facilitating real‐time detection and processing of environmental information. This review explores the recent advances in memristor‐based artificial sensory systems. The authors begin with the requirements of artificial sensory elements and then present an in‐depth review of such elements demonstrated by memristive devices. Finally, the major challenges and opportunities in the development of memristor‐based artificial sensory systems are discussed.
Flow resistance co‐efficient of meandering river in alluvial plain and its prediction using artificial neural network
Authors: Ahmed Sayed Sadulla , Ghosh Susmita , Barbhuiya Abdul Karim
Published: November 2023

A proper estimation of flow resistance coefficient of river is essential for precise simulations of river hydraulics. In addition to the cross‐sectional geometry and hydraulic parameters, the alignment of the channel affects the flow resistance coefficient in case of meandering rivers. In the present study, a rigorous field study of 131 km along the Barak River was conducted to assess the influence of meandering on the flow resistance coefficient. The values of flow resistance co‐efficient were calculated using Chezy and Manning's equations with measured field data and the values from both are compared. However, the variation in the flow resistance co‐efficient along the channel calculated from Manning's equation is significantly less as it does not consider the undulation and meandering. Using these field data, an artificial neural network (ANN) model has been developed to predict the cross‐sectional averaged flow resistance for meandering river. The model considered the influence of relative curvature, depth of flow, bed particle size, Froude number and Reynolds number including water temperature for accurate predictions of flow resistance coefficient. The ANN model was tested and validated using 237 field data sample. The values of the statistical parameters indicate a very good fit to the training dataset with coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.9566 for training and good fit for testing with R2 = 0.8131. The developed ANN model has been compared with other model with the same data set to check its applicability.
Online ethnography of breastfeeding discussions in social networking sites for Hong Kong mothers
Authors: Wong Toma Chun Yip , Yeung Karene Hoi Ting , Khalikova Venera R. , Hui Lai Ling , Chow Ka Ming , Lau Esther Yuet Ying , Nelson E. Anthony S.
Published: November 2023

With the growth of social networking, parents are increasingly sharing their experiences and opinions or seeking help with childcare through online platforms. This study explored breastfeeding‐related topics that Hong Kong mothers raise on social networking sites and how other mothers respond; and how these sites could be a facilitator or barrier to breastfeeding. An online ethnographic approach was used to collect breastfeeding‐related discussions (posts and responses) among mothers from three sources: two closed moderated Facebook groups with more than 1000 members, and one open unmoderated forum (Baby Kingdom) (26 December 2021–26 May 2022). Posts not related to breastfeeding (e.g., about formula feeding only) were excluded. Data were collected by a nonparticipatory approach to avoid disrupting the dynamics of the groups. In total, 131 original posts and their 802 responses were collected, of which the common topics discussed were breastfeeding technique, breastfeeding‐related health issues, breastfeeding mothers returning to work, and COVID‐19 vaccination/infection during breastfeeding. The responses to the queries on breastfeeding technique and health issues in the closed groups were mostly about sharing breastfeeding knowledge and health information to provide timely emotional support and practical solutions. Although similar responses were observed in the open forum, sharing experiences in using formula milk were frequently observed in the responses to posts related to breastfeeding. Social networking sites could be facilitators and barriers to breastfeeding. The potential for infant formula promotion in open forums requires further monitoring and evaluation. Moderation and support from trained professionals or peers could be important.
Valorization of kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) pod powder: Multifactorial optimization of gluten‐free cake
Authors: Dadalı Ceyda
Published: November 2023

The lifelong gluten‐free diet of celiac patients and gluten‐intolerant people prevents their balanced diet mainly due to starch‐rich products. The aim of this study is to determine optimum gluten‐free cake formulation having kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) pod powder as fat replacer of up to 50% and rice flour replacer of up to 30% using multifactorial optimization approach. Central composite design was used to determine optimum formulation. The use of kidney beans in gluten‐free cake increased moisture, hardness, chewiness, L*, a*, b*, antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, and sensory evaluation scores (p < .05). The optimum gluten‐free cake is rich in protein (5.89%), phenolic compounds (0.51 mg GAE/g), antioxidant activity (1.93 μmol TE/g), and total dietary fiber (4.43%) with improved sensory properties. The optimum gluten‐free cake formulation prepared with kidney bean pod powder of 27.88% fat and 13.52% rice flour replacer provides higher specific volume, springiness, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and sensory analysis scores, and lower hardness and chewiness conditions. Gluten‐free cake containing kidney bean pod powder as fat and rice flour replacer at optimum ratio is a new healthier alternative with reduced fat content and improved nutritional and sensory properties for celiac patients and gluten‐intolerant people.
Why higher copayments for opioids did not reduce use among Medicare beneficiaries
Authors: Joyce Geoffrey , Zhou Bo , Kaestner Robert
Published: November 2023

To examine whether higher cost‐sharing deterred prescription opioid use. Medicare Part D claims from 2007 to 2016 for a 20% random sample of Medicare enrollees. We obtain estimates of the effect of cost‐sharing on prescription opioid use using ordinary least squares and instrumental variables methods. In both, we exploit the variation (change) in cost‐sharing within plans over time for a sample of beneficiaries who remain in the same plan. Focusing on changes in cost‐sharing within a plan for a constant sample of beneficiaries mitigates potential bias from plan selection and using a constant set of weights derived from use in year (t) eliminates changes in the cost‐sharing indexes due to (endogenous) consumer choice in year (t+1). Part D plans adopted benefit changes designed to reduce opioid use, including moving opioids to higher cost‐sharing tiers. Increasing plan copayments for hydrocodone or oxycodone was associated with reductions in plan‐paid claims and offsetting increases in cash claims. Widespread availability of low‐cost generics combined with the anti‐clawback provision in Part D mediated the effect of higher cost sharing to curb opioid use. As plans moved generic opioids to higher cost‐sharing tiers, beneficiaries simply paid cash prices and aggregate use remained largely unchanged. The anti‐clawback provision in Part D, intended to protect beneficiaries from price gouging, limited plans' ability to constrain opioid use through typical demand‐side measures such as increased cost‐sharing.
Continuous microfluidic platform combining cell lysis and protein extraction for screening overall process conditions
Authors: Fradique Ricardo , Jardim Andreia , Azevedo Ana M , Chu Virginia , Conde João P , Raquel Aires‐Barros M
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Microfluidic devices have been increasingly used as tools to accelerate the development of new biomanufacturing methods, given their ability to test a large set of variables in a short amount of time with minimal reagent consumption. However, while being able to expedite a bioprocess design, the modular aspect of these devices has not been systematically explored, with most applications focusing on single unitary operations. This paper explores the modular design of these devices through the development of an integrated microfluidic chip.

RESULTS

Two separate unitary operations were included into a single device for continuous operation: product release by chemical cell lysis and product concentration by aqueous two‐phase system. In this way, it is possible to screen multiple conditions for each operation and evaluate their combined effect on the final product, making this a great tool in the development and optimization of a process. A recombinant Escherichia coli (E. coli) strain producing green fluorescent protein (GFP) was used as model system, which allows for lysis efficiency and partition coefficient to be evaluated by fluorescence microscopy. A chemical lysis solutions was used in the lysis step, presenting lysis efficiencies of about 100%, while a polyethylene glycol (PEG)/phosphate system was screened for the separation stage, presenting partition coefficients of about 4.

CONCLUSIONS

The integrated device allowed for the continuous screening of multiple combinations of operation conditions, highlighting, for example, conditions where improvements on the lysis efficiency subsequently impaired the separation, decreasing the partition of the target product, thus demonstrating the need for the evaluation of a process in its entirety. In this way, the microfluidic device delivered a rapid process screening and optimization, with very low reagent consumption, and using a simple fluorescence microscope for data collection. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Transitioning from a research protocol to a scalable applied pathway for Xenopus laevis sperm cryopreservation at a national stock center: The effect of cryoprotectants
Authors: Arregui Lucía , Koch Jack C. , Tiersch Terrence R.
Published: November 2023

Sperm cryopreservation is a critical tool for safeguarding and managing valuable genetic resources. Protocols for cryopreservation of Xenopus laevis sperm were available but lacking sperm quality evaluation and scalability and the outcomes were inconsistent. The goal of this study was to begin developing a center‐level cryopreservation pathway for this species by integrating French straws as containers that would facilitate germplasm repository development. The objectives were to analyze the effect of: (1) three sperm concentrations (33, 50, and 100 × 106 sperm/mL) on post‐thaw fertilization, (2) three final concentrations (2.5%, 5%, and 10%) of dimethyl sulfoxide, methanol, and dimethylformamide (DMFA) on sperm membrane integrity of fresh and frozen samples, (3) two concentrations (5% and 10%) of DMFA with and without 5% sucrose at four cooling rates (5, 10, 20, and 40°C/min) on sperm membrane integrity and motility, and (4) egg exposure to different concentrations of DMFA on fertilization. Few differences in sperm viability were found among fresh samples incubated in cryoprotectants, but thawed samples frozen in methanol or DMFA presented higher membrane integrity. Samples frozen in 10% DMFA at 20°C/min showed higher membrane integrity (60 ± 7%) than other DMFA concentrations and cooling rates, and the same total motility (30 ± 7%) as at 10°C/min. Higher DMFA concentrations (10%–13%) were detrimental for embryo development compared to lower concentrations (<6%). This study provided a reliable protocol for sperm cryopreservation in Xenopus laevis to yield an application pathway with potential for high throughput that can be used as a roadmap for work with other species.