bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of 1‐(2‐aminophenyl)pyrrole‐based amides acting as human topoisomerase I inhibitors
Authors: Carullo Gabriele , Mazzotta Sarah , Ceramella Jessica , Iacopetta Domenico , Ramunno Anna , Rosano Camillo , Brizzi Antonella , Campiani Giuseppe , Aiello Francesca , Sinicropi Maria S.
Published: July 2023

Topoisomerases are ubiquitous enzymes in the human body, particularly involved in cancer development and progression. Topoisomerase I (topoI) performs DNA relaxation reactions by “controlled rotation” rather than by “strand passage.” The inhibition of topoI has become a useful strategy to control cancer cell proliferation. Nowadays, different compounds have undergone clinical trials, but the search for new molecular entities is necessary and benefits from medicinal chemistry efforts. Pyrrole‐based compounds emerged as promising antiproliferative agents, with particular interest in breast cancer therapy and topoI inhibition. Starting from these observations and based on the scaffold‐hopping approach, we developed a small library of 1‐(2‐aminophenyl)pyrrole‐based amides (7a–f) as new anticancer agents. Tested on a panel of cancer cell lines, 7a–f displayed the most interesting profile in MDA‐MB‐231 cells, where the most active compounds, 7d–f, were able to induce death by apoptosis. Direct enzymatic assays and docking simulations on the topoI active site (PDB: 1A35) revealed the inhibitory activity and potential binding site for the newly developed 1‐(2‐aminophenyl)pyrrole‐based amides.
Is Drosophila Dpp/BMP morphogen spreading required for wing patterning and growth?
Authors: Matsuda Shinya , Affolter Markus
Published: July 2023

Secreted signaling molecules act as morphogens to control patterning and growth in many developing tissues. Since locally produced morphogens spread to form a concentration gradient in the surrounding tissue, spreading is generally thought to be the key step in the non‐autonomous actions. Here, we review recent advances in tool development to investigate morphogen function using the role of decapentaplegic (Dpp)/bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐type ligand in the Drosophila wing disc as an example. By applying protein binder tools to distinguish between the roles of Dpp spreading and local Dpp signaling, we found that Dpp signaling in the source cells is important for wing patterning and growth but Dpp spreading from this source cells is not as strictly required as previously thought. Given recent studies showing unexpected requirements of long‐range action of different morphogens, manipulating endogenous morphogen gradients by synthetic protein binder tools could shed more light on how morphogens act in developing tissues.
Training behavior technicians to become behavior artists through the teaching interaction procedure
Authors: Bukszpan Amy R. , Anderson Adriana , Moon Emma , Kaplan Annabel , Leaf Justin B.
Published: July 2023

In his 1985 lecture, Richard Foxx outlined several traits that distinguished behavior technicians from behavioral artists. He argued that these distinguishing factors made the difference in whether a behavior change proved successful or not. These features have added to the growing body of work around compassionate care in behavior analysis. This study demonstrates that Foxx's skills of behavioral artistry can be taught to a selection of three behavior technicians, demonstrating that technicians are able to learn the topographical behaviors of behavioral artistry through the teaching interaction procedure. A multiple baseline design across three participants was used. Data from this study demonstrates that all three participants showed improvement in their ability to engage in three components identified as part of Foxx's behavioral artistry.
Empowering human anatomy education through gamification and artificial intelligence: An innovative approach to knowledge appropriation
Authors: Castellano Mónica Stambuk , Contreras‐McKay Ignacio , Neyem Andrés , Farfán Emilio , Inzunza Oscar , Ottone Nicolás E. , del Sol Mariano , Alario‐Hoyos Carlos , Alvarado Macarena Soto , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: July 2023

Gamification has appeared as an alternative educational methodology to traditional tools. Specifically, in anatomy teaching, multiple technological applications have emerged in response to the difficulties of accessing cadaveric material; however, there is insufficient information about the effects of these applications on the performance achieved by students, or about to the best way to adapt learning to meet their educational needs. In this study, we investigated how teaching human anatomy through a mobile gamified technological tool containing recommendation systems can be combined with a virtual assistant to improve the learning and academic performance of medical students in the Anatomy Department at the Universidad de La Frontera in Temuco, Chile and the Anatomy Department at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. In total, 131 students participated in the experiment, which was divided into two case studies. The main findings led to the conclusion that gamified components support students in learning anatomy. In addition, the predictions and recommendations provided by the virtual assistant enabled the academic aspects that the students needed to improve to be extracted adequately. Future work is expected to support adaptive learning by incorporating new artificial intelligence in education elements that can generate personalized scenarios for studying anatomy based on the application.
Felt understanding as a bridge between social identity and wellbeing among international university students
Authors: Du Xinran , Livingstone Andrew G. , Adlam Anna‐Lynne R.
Published: July 2023

Wellbeing issues among international students in the UK higher education have been recognised as a crisis. To address this, we integrate social identity and felt understanding approaches to wellbeing and mental health, testing whether felt understanding (the belief that others understand oneself) is an important process through which social identity predicts better wellbeing, over and above other, more established mediators (social support, life meaning, and personal control). International university students (including both undergraduates and postgraduates, N = 301) completed an online survey that measured three sets of variables: social identity variables (ingroup identification, multiple identities, multiple identity compatibility); process variables (social support, felt understanding, life meaning, personal control); and wellbeing outcomes (e.g., depression, anxiety, stress). Path analyses confirmed that felt understanding predicted better wellbeing outcomes over and above the other mediators. Additionally, indirect effects from social identity variables to wellbeing via felt understanding were consistently significant, even when adjusting for the other mediators. The results are consistent with the idea that felt understanding is an under‐acknowledged resource through which social identities protect wellbeing. The findings contribute to “social cure” research and have implications for promoting wellbeing services from the perspective of group memberships. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Perceptions of ethical cosmetics: Health behaviors during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Delannoy Arnaud , Baudier Patricia , de Vassoigne Tony
Published: July 2023

Ethical consumption is considered one of the key issues of the early twenty‐first century, and the demand for natural and chemical‐free products has continued to grow. This study aims to explore consumers' perceptions of ethical cosmetics during the COVID‐19 pandemic; measuring the self‐dimensions that influence their opinions on the potential benefits of healthy cosmetics and measuring these impacts on purchase intention and purchase recommendation. A survey of 483 qualified respondents was conducted through a market research company. The research model, which mobilized constructs drawn from the literature, was analyzed using a partial least square approach via SmartPLS3.3.9 software. Our results demonstrate the direct impact of brand social responsibility (BSR), personal‐positive (PP), and social‐positive (SP) on word‐of‐mouth (WOM). The influence of self‐association on PP is validated but rejected for SP. We show that extended‐self has a direct effect on PP but not on SP, while self‐design has an impact on both variables. Finally, the variables SP, PP, and BSR have a direct impact on the intention to buy healthy cosmetics but not on the WOM construct. As such, this study contributes to the literature on the perception of ethical/healthy cosmetics and consumer behavior and perceptions.
Antibiofilm Activity of Invasive Plants against Candida albicans: Focus on Baccharis halimifolia Essential Oil and Its Compounds
Authors: Desrini Sufi , Ducloux Julien , Hamion Guillaume , Bodet Charles , Labanowski Jérome , Mustofa Mustofa , Nuryastuti Titik , Imbert Christine , Girardot Marion
Published: July 2023

The extracts of five invasive plants were investigated for antifungal and antibiofilm activities against Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, and C. parapsilosis. The antifungal activity was evaluated using the microdilution assay and the antibiofilm effect by measurement of the metabolic activity. Ethanol and ethanol‐water extracts of Reynoutria japonica leaves inhibited 50 % of planktonic cells at 250 μg mL−1 and 15.6 μg mL−1, respectively. Ethanol and ethanol‐water extracts of Baccharis halimifolia inhibited >75 % of the mature biofilm of C. albicans at 500 μg mL−1. The essential oil (EO) of B. halimifolia leaves was the most active (50 % inhibition (IC50) at 4 and 74 μg mL−1against the maturation phase and 24 h old‐biofilms of C. albicans, respectively). Oxygenated sesquiterpenes were the primary contents in this EO (62.02 %), with β‐caryophyllene oxide as the major component (37 %). Aromadendrene oxide‐(2), β‐caryophyllene oxide, and (±)‐β‐pinene displayed significant activities against the maturation phase (IC50=9–310 μ mol l−1) and preformed 24 h‐biofilm (IC50=38–630 μ mol l−1) of C. albicans with very low cytotoxicity for the first two compounds. C. albicans remained the most susceptible species to this EO and its components. This study highlighted for the first time the antibiofilm potential of B. halimifolia, its EO and some of its components.
Mechanical Interlocking to Unlock the Reinforcing Potential of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Mena‐Hernando Sofia , Eaton Matthew , Fernández‐Blázquez Juan P. , López‐Moreno Alejandro , Pedersen Henrik , Pérez Emilio M.
Published: July 2023

Single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) present extraordinary mechanical properties, with Youngs’ modulus>1 TPa and tensile strength>50 GPa; this makes them ideal candidates as fillers for the reinforcement of polymers. However, the performance of SWNTs in this field has fallen behind expectations. This is due to a combination of imperfect individualization of the SWNTs and poor load transfer from the polymer to the SWNTs. Here, we study the reinforcement of polymers of different chemical nature using mechanically interlocked derivatives of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (MINTs). We compare the mechanical properties of fibers made of poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and polysulfone (PSU) and their composites made with pristine SWNTs, MINTs, and the corresponding supramolecular models. With very low loading of MINTs (0.01 % w/w), improvements of more than 100 % on Youngs Modulus and the tensile strength are observed for both the nonpolar aliphatic PMMA and the very polar aromatic PSU polymers, while pristine carbon nanotubes and the supramolecular nanofillers showed smaller reinforcement. These data, together with our previous report on the reinforcement of polystyrene (nonpolar and aromatic), indicate that derivatization of SWNTs as MINTs is a valid general strategy to optimize the interaction between SWNT fillers and the polymer matrix.
The Rapid Synthesis of Colibactin Warhead Model Compounds Using New Metal‐Free Photocatalytic Cyclopropanation Reactions Facilitates the Investigation of Biological Mechanisms
Authors: Bosveli Artemis , Griboura Nefeli , Kampouropoulos Ioannis , Kalaitzakis Dimitris , Montagnon Tamsyn , Vassilikogiannakis Georgios
Published: July 2023

Herein, we report the synthesis of a series of colibactin warhead model compounds using two newly developed metal‐free photocatalytic cyclopropanation reactions. These mild cyclopropanations expand the known applications of eosin within synthesis. A halogen atom transfer reaction mode has been harnessed so that dihalides can be used as the cyclopropanating agents. The colibactin warhead models were then used to provide new insight into two key mechanisms in colibactin chemistry. An explanation is provided for why the colibactin warhead sometimes undergoes a ring expansion‐addition reaction to give fused cyclobutyl products while at other times nucleophiles add directly to the cyclopropyl unit (as when DNA adds to colibactin). Finally, we provide some evidence that Cu(II) chelated to colibactin may catalyze an important oxidation of the colibactin‐DNA adduct. The Cu(I) generated as a result could then also play a role in inducing double strand breaks in DNA.
Rapid Unambiguous Structure Elucidation of Streptnatamide A, a New Cyclic Peptide Isolated from A Marine‐derived Streptomyces sp
Authors: Yan Jia‐Xuan , Wu Qihao , Maity Mitasree , Braun Doug R. , Alas Imraan , Wang Xiao , Yin Xing , Zhu Yanlong , Bell Bailey A. , Rajski Scott R. , Ge Ying , Richardson Douglas D. , Zhong Wendy , Bugni Tim S.
Published: July 2023

Cyclic peptides have been excellent source of drug leads. With the advances in discovery platforms, the pharmaceutical industry has a growing interest in cyclic peptides and has pushed several into clinical trials. However, structural complexity of cyclic peptides brings extreme challenges for structure elucidation efforts. Isotopic fine structure analysis, Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and detailed tandem mass spectrometry rapidly provided peptide sequence for streptnatamide A, a cyclic peptide isolated from a marine‐derived Streptomyces sp. Marfey's analysis determined the stereochemistry of all amino acids, enabling the unambiguous structure determination of this compound. A non‐ribosomal peptide synthetase biosynthetic gene cluster (stp) was tentatively identified and annotated for streptnatamide A based on the in silico analysis of whole genome sequencing data. These analytical tools will be powerful tools to overcome the challenges for cyclic peptide structure elucidation and accelerate the development of bioactive cyclic peptides.
Total Synthesis of (−)‐5‐Deoxyenterocin and Attempted Late‐Stage Functionalization Reactions
Authors: Koser Lilla , Bach Thorsten
Published: July 2023

The first total synthesis of (−)‐5‐deoxyenterocin has been accomplished starting from pentane‐1,3,5‐triol (16 steps in the longest linear sequence, 0.2 % overall yield). (−)‐Menthone served as the source of chirality to distinguish the enantiotopic hydroxymethyl groups of the substrate. Key steps of the synthesis include two aldol reactions to either end of the C5‐skeleton, a diastereoselective hydroxylation reaction and a biomimetic twofold intramolecular aldol reaction as the final step. Although this step suffered from geometrical constraints and was low yielding (10 %), enough synthetic material could be secured to substantiate the relative and absolute configuration of the natural product. Additional experiments were directed toward a C−H functionalization at carbon atom C5. Despite the fact that several protocols could be successfully applied to (3aR)‐(+)‐sclareolide as model substrate, (−)‐5‐deoxyenterocin withstood any selective functionalization.
Triggering gel‐sol transition by weak magnetic field
Authors: Stovbun Sergey V. , Zanin Anatoly M. , Skoblin Aleksey A. , Mikhaleva Mariya G. , Kuznetsov Dmitry A. , Zlenko Dmitry V.
Published: July 2023

The self‐assembly of small and always chiral molecules into fiber‐like structures is a mysterious process, as the physics underlying such self‐assembly is unclear. The energy necessary for this process exceeds the one provided by common dispersion interactions and hydrogen bonding. The recent results obtained by the scientific group of Prof. Naaman from the Weizmann Institute of Science fed light on the nature of forces providing for the self‐assembly of chiral molecules and attributed these forces to spin‐exchange interactions. Therefore, the self‐assembly of chiral molecules should be magneto‐sensitive. We found such sensitivity in solutions of trifluoroacetylated
‐amino alcohols, and the process was inhibited by the magnetic field when fibers grew on the surface of the substrate. On the contrary, in bulk, the self‐assembly was enhanced by the magnetic field and led to the formation of a dense gel, while no gelation was observed in the absence of the external magnetic field. The latter observations are the theme of this short report, aimed to declare the effect itself but not pretend to describe it in full.
Facile Modification on Buried Interface for Highly Efficient and Stable FASn0.5Pb0.5I3 Perovskite Solar Cells with NiOx Hole‐Transport layers†
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhou Yuan , Guo Tonghui , Zhang Xiang , Zhu Zhenkun , Jin Junjun , Cui Xiaxia , Zhang Dan , Wang Zhen , Li Lin , Wang Nai , Tang Guanqi , Tai Qidong
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Formamidinium (FA)‐based Sn‐Pb perovskite solar cells (FAPb0.5Sn0.5I3 PSCs) with ideal bandgap and impressive thermal stability have caught enormous attention recently. However, it still suffers from the challenge of realizing high efficiency due to the surface imperfections of the transport materials and the energy‐level mismatch between functional contacts. Herein, it is demonstrated that the modification on buried interface with alkali metal salts is a viable strategy to alleviate these issues. We systematically investigate the role of three alkali metal bromide salts (NaBr, KBr, CsBr) by burying them between the NiOx hole transport layer (HTL) and the perovskite light‐absorbing layer, which can effectively passivate interface defects, improve energy‐level matching and release the internal residual strain in perovskite layers. The device with CsBr buffer layer exhibits the best power conversion efficiency (PCE) approaching 20%, which is one of the highest efficiencies for FA‐based Sn‐Pb PSCs employing NiOx HTLs. Impressively, the long‐term storage stability of the unencapsulated device is also greatly boosted. Our work provides an efficient strategy to prepare desired FA‐based ideal‐bandgap Sn‐Pb PSCs which could be applied in tandem solar cells.
Dual Functional Diblock Amino Acid Copolymer Displaying Synergistic Effect with Curcumin against MRSA and Encapsulation of Curcumin†
Authors: Wu Yueming , Chen Yuan , Yu Haowen , Dong Alideertu , Liu Runhui
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The intensive use of antibiotics intensifies the development of bacterial resistance, which has become a serious problem globally. Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has resulted in significant morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is an urgent need to develop new antimicrobial drugs and administration methods. Herein, we report a dual functional diblock copolymer PLL20‐b‐PBLG20, which was prepared by superfast and water‐insensitive polymerization on N‐carboxyanhydrides (NCA) initiated by tetraalkylammonium carboxylate. In addition to direct antimicrobial activity, PLL20‐b‐PBLG20 also exerts a synergistic bactericidal effect against MRSA with curcumin, a plant extract with antibacterial property. Moreover, PLL20‐b‐PBLG20 successfully encapsulates curcumin to form nanoparticles via self‐assembly. The combination of dual functional PLL20‐b‐PBLG20 and curcumin holds promise in combating MRSA infections.
Pathological and radiological response following neoadjuvant treatments in primary localized resectable myxofibrosarcoma and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma of the extremities and trunk wall
Authors: Danieli Maria , Barretta Francesco , Radaelli Stefano , Fiore Marco , Sangalli Claudia , Barisella Marta , Palassini Elena , Miceli Rosalba , Frezza Anna Maria , Callegaro Dario , Collini Paola , Casali Paolo Giovanni , Stacchiotti Silvia , Gronchi Alessandro
Published: July 2023

Background

To explore the correlation between pathological and radiological response to preoperative treatments and outcome in surgically treated patients with myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS).

Methods

All consecutive patients with primary localized MFS and UPS of the extremities and trunk wall surgically treated with curative intent at our center (2005‐2021) were included. Clinical data including residual visible tumor (VT%) on surgical specimen and Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor (RECIST) were retrieved. Kaplan–Meier curves for overall survival and disease‐free survival, and cumulative incidence of local relapse and distant metastasis were estimated in a competing risk framework according to RECIST and VT%, overall and by treatment group. Cox and Fine and Gray multivariable models were performed.

Results

Of 693 patients affected by primary MFS and UPS, 233 (66 MFS and 167 UPS) were treated by neoadjuvant chemotherapy (naChT), radiotherapy (naRT), or both (naChT‐RT). VT% was ≤5% in 13/46 (28.2%), 24/99 (24.2%), and 40/88 (45.4%) patients, respectively. There were 11/46 (29.7%), 22/99 (22.7%), and 23/88 (26.1%) RECIST partial responses and 18/46 (48.6%), 59/99 (60.8%), and 60/88 (68.2%) RECIST stable disease, respectively. In naChT, a trend for a better survival was observed when VT% ≤5% (p = .09), whereas RECIST partial responses and stable disease had the same outcome. VT% was not associated with outcome in naRT or naChT‐RT, whereas RECIST response was.

Conclusion

In primary localized MFS and UPS treated with neoadjuvant therapies, VT% seems more relevant than size reduction after naChT, whereas the opposite is true when naRT is administered alone or concurrent to ChT.
A contact model based on the coefficient of restitution for simulations of bio‐prosthetic heart valves
Authors: Asadi Hossein , Borazjani Iman
Published: July 2023

A new general contact model is proposed for preventing inter‐leaflet penetration of bio‐prosthetic heart valves (BHV) at the end of the systole, which has the advantage of applying kinematic constraints directly and creating smooth free edges. At the end of each time step, the impenetrability constraints and momentum exchange between the impacting bodies are applied separately based on the coefficient of restitution. The contact method is implemented in a rotation‐free, large deformation, and thin shell finite‐element (FE) framework based on loop's subdivision surfaces. A nonlinear, anisotropic material model for a BHV is employed which uses Fung‐elastic constitutive laws for in‐plane and bending responses, respectively. The contact model is verified and validated against several benchmark problems. For a BHV‐specific validation, the computed strains on different regions of a BHV under constant pressure are compared with experimentally measured data. Finally, dynamic simulations of BHV under physiological pressure waveform are performed for symmetrical and asymmetrical fiber orientations incorporating the new contact model and compared with the penalty contact method. The proposed contact model provides the coaptation area of a functioning BHV during the closing phase for both of the fiber orientations. Our results show that fiber orientation affects the dynamic of leaflets during the opening and closing phases. A swirling motion for the BHV with asymmetrical fiber orientation is observed, similar to experimental data. To include the fluid effects, fluid–structure interaction (FSI) simulation of the BHV is performed and compared to the dynamic results.
Clinical presentation, treatment patterns, and outcomes of colorectal cancer patients at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Zingeta Girum Tessema , Worku Yohannes T. , Getachew Assefa , Feyisa Jilcha Diribi , Furgassa Hawi , Belay Winini , Mengesha Tariku , Jemal Ahmedin , Assefa Mathewos
Published: July 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cause of cancer death in both genders worldwide.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes and prognostic factors of CRC patients at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia.

Methods and Results

A prospective cohort study was conducted on 209 patients from January 2020 to September 2022. Kaplan–Meier curves and bivariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to analyze overall and progression‐free survival, with a significance value of P < .05. Results showed an overall mortality rate was 67.46% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 61.0–74.0), while the 1‐year overall survival (OS) rate was 63.16% (95% CI: 56.23–69.29), with a median follow‐up duration of 20 months. The median OS and progression‐free survival times were 17 and 11 months, respectively. Age above 40 years (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.53, 1.02–2.29, p < .040), lower educational level (high school and below) (HR = 2.20, 1.24–3.90, p < .007), poor performance status (HR = 1.60, 1.03–2.48, p < .035), Hgb ≤12.5 g/dL (HR = 1.55, 1.03–2.08, p < .035), T‐4 disease (HR = 6.05, 2.28–16.02, p < .000), and metastases at diagnosis (HR = 8.53, 3.77–19.25, p < .000) were all associated with poorer survival.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that poor survival of CRC patients in Ethiopia is largely due to advanced stage of the disease and lack of timely treatment, and highlight the urgent need for improved access to cancer treatment in the region.
Co3O4 Supported on β‐Mo2C with Different Interfaces for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhang Jiaxin , Li Sisi , Liu Xiaohan , Zheng Haoquan , Zhang Wei , Cao Rui
Published: July 2023

Interface engineering is an effective strategy for improving the activity of catalysts in electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, Co3O4 supported on β‐Mo2C with different interfaces were investigated for electrocatalytic OER. The morphological diversity of β‐Mo2C supports allowed different Co3O4‐Mo2C interactions. Various techniques characterized the composition and microstructure of the interface in the composites. Due to the strong interaction between Co3O4 nanoparticles and β‐Mo2C nanobelts with opposing surface potentials, compact interface was observed between Co3O4 active species and β‐Mo2C nanobelt support. The compact interface enhanced the conductivity of the material and also regulated the interfacial electron redistribution of Mo and Co atoms, promoting the charge transfer process during OER. In addition, the surface loading of Co3O4 can effectively improve the hydrophilicity of the surface. β‐Mo2C has the capability in dissociating H2O molecules. Thus, an example has been carefully demonstrated for interface engineering in electrocatalytic OER.
Variation of insulin‐related peptides accompanying the differentiation of Aphis gossypii biotypes and their expression profiles
Authors: Jiang Weili , Nasir Muhammad , Zhao Chenchen
Published: July 2023

Insulin signaling plays a critical role in regulating various aspects of insect biology, including development, reproduction, and the formation of wing polyphenism. This leads to differentiation among insect populations at different levels. The insulin family exhibits functional variation, resulting in diverse functional pathways. Aphis gossypii Glover, commonly known as the cotton‐melon aphid, is a highly adaptable aphid species that has evolved into multiple biotypes. To understand the genetic structure of the insulin family and its evolutionary diversification and expression patterns in A. gossypii, we conducted studies using genome annotation files and RNA‐sequencing data. Consequently, we identified 11 insulin receptor protein (IRP) genes in the genomes of the examined biotypes. Among these, eight AgosIRPs were dispersed across the X chromosome, while two were found in tandem on the A1 chromosome. Notably, AgosIRP2 exhibited alternative splicing, resulting in the formation of two isoforms. The AgosIRP genes displayed a high degree of conservation between Hap1 and Hap3, although some variations were observed between their genomes. For instance, a transposon was present in the coding regions of AgosIRP3 and AgosIRP9 in the Hap3 genome but not in the Hap1 genome. RNA‐sequencing data revealed that four AgosIRPs were expressed ubiquitously across different morphs of A. gossypii, while others showed specific expression patterns in adult gynopara and adult males. Furthermore, the expression levels of most AgosIRPs decreased upon treatment with the pesticide acetamiprid. These findings demonstrate the evolutionary diversification of AgosIRPs between the genomes of the two biotypes and provide insights into their expression profiles across different morphs, developmental stages, and biotypes. Overall, this study contributes valuable information for investigating aphid genome evolution and the functions of insulin receptor proteins.
Local weather affects body condition of three North American songbird species on the Texas Coast
Authors: McCloy Michael W. D. , Glasscock Selma , Grace Jacquelyn K.
Published: July 2023

Body condition is a frequently used physiological indicator of avian health and can be affected by an array of environmental variables. Although a number of studies have investigated the specific effects of individual weather variables on body condition in birds, few have analyzed the effects of both temperature and precipitation within the context of an extreme weather event such as hurricanes. In this study, we examined the relationship between breeding‐season body condition and daily maximum temperature, daily minimum temperature, and monthly total precipitation for three passerine bird species at the Welder Wildlife Refuge near Rockport, Texas. We also evaluated yearly changes in body condition over a 12‐year period for northern cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis), painted buntings (Passerina ciris), and white‐eyed vireos (Vireo griseus), focusing on the extreme precipitation event of Hurricane Harvey, which caused heavy localized flooding. We found that body condition declined with average daily minimum and maximum temperatures, while precipitation had varied, species‐specific effects in the three species analyzed. Our results also suggest that northern cardinals experienced a notable reduction in average body condition in the 2 years following Hurricane Harvey. Taken together, we conclude that short‐term precipitation and temperature drivers can be important correlates of body condition in songbirds and that severe weather events may reduce body condition in some bird species.
Adaptive host responses to infection can resemble parasitic manipulation
Authors: Jensen Camilla Håkonsrud , Weidner Jacqueline , Giske Jarl , Jørgensen Christian , Eliassen Sigrunn , Mennerat Adèle
Published: July 2023

Using a dynamic optimisation model for juvenile fish in stochastic food environments, we investigate optimal hormonal regulation, energy allocation and foraging behaviour of a growing host infected by a parasite that only incurs an energetic cost. We find it optimal for the infected host to have higher levels of orexin, growth and thyroid hormones, resulting in higher activity levels, increased foraging and faster growth. This growth strategy thus displays several of the fingerprints often associated with parasite manipulation: higher levels of metabolic hormones, faster growth, higher allocation to reserves (i.e. parasite‐induced gigantism), higher risk‐taking and eventually higher predation rate. However, there is no route for manipulation in our model, so these changes reflect adaptive host compensatory responses. Interestingly, several of these changes also increase the fitness of the parasite. Our results call for caution when interpreting observations of gigantism or risky host behaviours as parasite manipulation without further testing.
Potential contribution of floral thermogenesis to cold adaptation, distribution pattern, and population structure of thermogenic and non/slightly thermogenic Symplocarpus species
Authors: Sato Mitsuhiko P. , Matsuo Ayumi , Otsuka Koichi , Takano Kohei Takenaka , Maki Masayuki , Okano Kunihiro , Suyama Yoshihisa , Ito‐Inaba Yasuko
Published: July 2023

The genus Symplocarpus in basal Araceae includes both thermogenic and non/slightly thermogenic species that prefer cold environments. If floral thermogenesis of Symplocarpus contributes to cold adaptation, it would be expected that thermogenic species have a larger habitat than non/slightly thermogenic species during an ice age, leading to increased genetic diversity in the current population. To address this question, potential distribution in past environment predicted by ecological niche modeling (ENM), genetic diversity, and population structure of chloroplast and genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms were compared between thermogenic Symplocarpus renifolius and non/slightly thermogenic Symplocarpus nipponicus. ENM revealed that the distribution of S. nipponicus decreased, whereas that of S. renifolius expanded in the Last Glacial Maximum. Phylogeographic analyses have shown that the population structures of the two species were genetically segmented and that the genetic diversity of S. renifolius was higher than that of S. nipponicus. The phylogenetic relationship between chloroplast and nuclear DNA is topologically different in the two species, which may be due to the asymmetric gene flow ubiquitously observed in plants. The results of this study imply that floral thermogenesis of Symplocarpus contributes to expanding the distribution during an ice age, resulting in increased genetic diversity due to cold adaptation.
Temporal dynamics in diversity and composition of the air mycobiome and dominant allergenic fungi in the subway environment
Authors: Harnpicharnchai Piyanun , Siriarchawatana Paopit , Pumkaeo Panyapon , Likhitrattanapisal Somsak , Mayteeworakoon Sermsiri , Zhou Xin , Liang Junmin , Gafforov Yusufjon , Eurwilaichitr Lily , Cai Lei , Ingsriswang Supawadee
Published: July 2023

Analyzing and monitoring air microbiomes in the subway environment has a great impact on public health, especially in urban cities. In this study, temporal distribution profile of air mycobiome at Bangkok's Sukhumvit subway station (MRT‐SKV) was explored over 12 samplings during December 2021–November 2022 by the environmental DNA‐metabarcoding approach. The top 5 most abundant fungal genera identified were Yarrowia, Cladosporium, Hortaea, Cutaneotrichosporon, and Leptobacillum. Among the 496 genera found, 24 genera could be considered “core mycobiome” of the MRT‐SKV air, as they were consistently found in ≥85% of the samples. Many members of the core mycobiome constituted human commensal genera, but several of them can elicit allergic reactions in humans and thus pose a potential health risk. Cladosporium was the most abundant allergenic fungi found in the MRT‐SKV, which is in contrast to Malassezia, Ustilago, or Aspergillus being the most abundant allergenic fungi in subway environments in other countries. The fungal compositions in the subway environment differed temporally, and the abundances of allergenic fungi were the highest in   samples obtained during the first and seventh samplings (done in December 2021–June 2022). These compositional variations were most likely influenced by air quality variables, including particulate matter (PM), temperature, and relative humidity, which showed seasonal variations. Finally, certain fungal genera were shown to co‐occur together in co‐occurrence network. Many of the allergenic fungal genera formed networks more prominently in rush hour than in other traffic hours. The co‐occurrence network suggested associations among certain fungal genera, such as the association between Malassezia–Nigrospora, Alternaria–Aspergillus, and Aspergillus–Cutaneotrichosporon in the MRT‐SKV bioaerosols. The implied associations between these fungi are worth further investigation since they may point toward their impact on human health (as they are opportunistic fungi found in human). Our results thus facilitate understanding the ecological and health impacts of fungal components of the subway air environment.
Inter‐attitude centrality does not appear to reduce persuasion for political attitudes
Authors: Brandt Mark J. , Vallabha Shree
Published: July 2023

Are attitudes more resistant to change when they are more central to a belief system? Theories of inter‐attitude structure and belief system dynamics both suggest that the answer is yes. We demonstrate how to combine belief system network methods with pretest‐posttest experiments to empirically test this idea. We aimed to persuade US conservatives (Experiment 1 N = 890) and US liberals (Experiment 2 N = 1305, Experiment 3 N = 1293) using moral reframing persuasive strategies. Although we find that moral reframing was persuasive (9 of 12 attempts), there was no evidence that central attitudes were more difficult to change than peripheral attitudes. This was the case across all experiments, target attitudes and methods for assessing belief system structure. The results suggest that moral reframing persuades people, but that theories of inter‐attitude structure and belief system dynamics both do not make accurate predictions in this situation.
Electrochemical biosensors for rapid diagnosis of bacterial infections: Design, targets and applications in clinical setting
Authors: Koçak Engin , Ozkul Ceren , Bozal‐Palabiyik Burcin , Süslü İncilay , Uslu Bengi
Published: July 2023

In clinical settings, quickly identifying and detecting bacterial infections is crucial. Current methods for identifying and measuring these diseases take a long time and are frequently expensive. Hence, biosensor systems may be a viable alternative to conventional systems. Electrochemical systems based on different materials have great potential for developing rapid methods to detect pathogens in many areas. They are cheaper and reliable, have a relatively fast response time, and provide better stability and sensitivity. This review article assesses the recent advancements and potential of electrochemical biosensors for monitoring/detecting different pathogens in clinical samples. After mentioning standard techniques for detecting various microorganisms, the article introduced the biosensor‘s fundamental conceptualization and its varieties, functioning principles, and advantages. Then it discussed the applicability of various electrochemical systems employed in clinical analysis. It reviewed DNA, RNA and protein‐based systems as methods of direct pathogen analysis and underlined metabolite‐based indirect systems, the new trend in microbiology and life sciences, with their potential for detecting infectious diseases.
Theoretical Analysis and Development of Multilayered Ecofriendly Sb2S3‐Based Solar Cell Using SCAPS‐1D Framework
Authors: Ait Abdelkadir Abdelaziz , Sahal Mustapha , Oublal Essaadia
Published: July 2023

Herein, FTO/TiO2/Sb2S3/Au solar cell characteristics via SCAPS‐1D modeling are examined. The research begins with device modeling of the Sb2S3 conventional solar cell based on experimental data, which results in excellent agreement with the power conversion efficiency recorded in the literature of ≈4.72%. The influence of several factors on the characteristics of conventional solar cells is then investigated, including Sb2S3 thickness, carrier concentration, bulk and interface defects, and buffer layer type (TiO2, WS2, and CdS). An optimal efficiency of 9.97%, open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.96 V, short‐circuit current (Jsc) of 19.69%, and fill factor (FF) of 52.26% are found for the FTO/WS2/Sb2S3/Au optimized solar cell. Finally, the influence of NiO as the back surface field and parasitic resistance (Rs and Rsh) on the performance of Sb2S3 solar cells is investigated. The innovative solar cell design (FTO/WS2/Sb2S3/NiO/Au) with NiO thickness of 20 nm, Rs < 2 Ω cm−2, and Rsh > 700 Ω cm−2 yields a high efficiency of more than 14.38%, FF > 68.93%, Voc > 1 V, and Jsc > 20.67 mA cm−2. These qualities allow for the large‐scale manufacture of a solar cell by including it in a manufacturing workflow.
Effect of MAPK activation via mutations in NRAS, KRAS and BRAF on clinical outcome in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Perroud Camille , Thurian Dario , Andres Martin , Künzi Arnaud , Wiedemann Gertrud , Zeerleder Sacha , Bacher Ulrike , Pabst Thomas , Banz Yara , Porret Naomi , Rebmann Ekaterina
Published: July 2023

Until now, next generation sequencing (NGS) data has not been incorporated into any prognostic stratification of multiple myeloma (MM) and no therapeutic considerations are based upon it. In this work, we correlated NGS data with (1) therapy response and survival parameters in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, treated by VRd * and (2) MM disease stage: newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (ndMM) versus relapsed and/or refractory (relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma). We analyzed 126 patients, with ndMM and relapsed refractory multiple myeloma (rrMM), treated at the University Hospital of Bern (Inselspital). Next generation sequencing was performed on bone marrow, as part of routine diagnostics. The NGS panel comprised eight genes CCND1, DIS3, EGR1, FAM46C (TENT5C), FGFR3, PRDM1, TP53, TRAF3 and seven hotspots in BRAF, IDH1, IDH2, IRF4, KRAS, NRAS. The primary endpoint was complete remission (CR) after VRd in ndMM, in correlation with mutational profile. Mutational load was generally higher in rrMM, with more frequently mutated TP53: 11/87 (13%) in ndMM versus 9/11 (81%) in rrMM (OR 0.0857, p = 0.0007). In ndMM, treated by VRd, mutations in MAPK‐pathway members (NRAS, KRAS or BRAF) were associated with reduced probability of CR (21/38, 55%), as compared with wild type NRAS, KRAS or BRAF (34/40, 85%; OR 0.2225, p = 0.006). NRAS c.181C > A (p.Q61K) as a single mutation event showed a trend to reduced probability of achieving CR (OR 0.0912, p = 0.0247). Activation of MAPK pathway via mutated NRAS, KRAS and BRAF genes seems to have a negative impact on outcome in ndMM patients receiving VRd therapy. VRd* ‐ bortezomib (Velcade®), lenalidomide (Revlimid®) and dexamethasone.
Investigating the implementation of telehealth and digital technologies during public health crisis: A qualitative review
Authors: Anthony Jnr Bokolo
Published: July 2023

Public health crises such as the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic across the world overstrained the health care system. Accordingly, telehealth and digital technologies were implemented. Telehealth and digital technologies refer to the provision of health care at a distance using electronic means for diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, monitoring, and education of patients. This approach, while extremely useful, can be challenging for both patients and physicians, mainly as this is a new mode of health care to health practitioners and patients. Intrinsically, when managing the massive disruption to the routine of patient health care workflow, it is important to understand the important factors associated with an accelerated introduction of telehealth and digital technologies for the effective and safe continuation of healthcare during a public health crisis. Accordingly, this current study performed a qualitative review analysis of 40 scientific sources from 2019 to 2022. Findings present health practitioners that implemented telehealth and digital technologies during the public health emergency. Additionally, findings from this study presents a workflow approach for telehealth visit cycle and also discusses the current telehealth and virtual applications being implemented during public health crisis. This study provides implications to support health care managers and policymakers of health centres to be virtually informed regarding digital applications being implemented by patients and health practitioners on how to implement an effective telehealth system during public health crises.
Validation of Frail Scale and comparison with hospital frailty risk score to predict hospital use in a cohort of older Australian women
Authors: Shebeshi Dinberu S. , Dolja‐Gore Xenia , Byles Julie
Published: July 2023

Introduction

With no standard frailty tool for clinical care, research and policymaking, identifying frail older people is a challenge.

Aims

This study aimed to compare two validated scales, which are the Frail Scale and Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) for their ability in identifying frailty in older Australian women and predicting hospital use.

Methods

This study included older Australian women aged 75–95 years, who had unplanned overnight hospital admission as an index admission between 2001 and 2016. Data from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were linked with administrative hospital data to calculate HFRS (using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases, Australia Modification (ICD‐10‐AM) diagnostic codes) and the Frail Scale (using the ALSWH self‐reported survey).

Results

The Frail Scale identified a higher proportion of older frail women (30.54%) compared to the HFRS (23.0%). Frail older women, classified by Frail Scale, were at higher risk of long hospital stay (adjusted odds ratio = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.02–1.60), repeated admission (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.03–1.41) and death (AHR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.45–2.01). HFRS was associated with longer hospital stay and mortality.

Conclusions

The proportion of older women classified as frail by the Frail Scale tool was higher than women classified as frail by HFRS. The Frail Scale and HFRS were not significantly associated with each other. While both tools were associated with the risk of long hospital stay and mortality, only the Frail Scale predicted the risk of repeated admission.
Childhood fantasy play relates to adult socio‐emotional competence
Authors: Halliday Abigail , Kola‐Palmer Susanna , Davis Paige , King Nigel , Retzler Jenny
Published: July 2023

Childhood fantasy play and creation of imaginary companions are thought to confer socio‐emotional benefits in children, but little is known about how they relate to socio‐emotional competence in adulthood. A total of 341 adults (81 males) aged 18 and above (M = 31.47, SD = 12.62) completed an online survey examining their fantasy play as a child, their childhood imaginary companion status, and their adult socio‐emotional competence. Adults who reported higher levels of childhood fantasy play were found to be significantly more prosocial, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent than their counterparts after controlling for demographic factors. Recall of a childhood imaginary companion, however, was significantly related only to higher scores for perspective‐taking and did not explain unique variance in any adult competence measure. Findings suggest that engagement in fantasy play during childhood may be a precursor to later socio‐emotional competence, while benefits previously associated with imaginary companions specifically may not extend into adulthood.