bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organocatalytic Remote Stereocontrolled Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted Allenes via Asymmetric 1,8‐Addition of Propargylic Aza‐p‐Quinone Methides
Authors: Yue Zhibin , Xia Yan , Shen Boming , Liu Chang , Yu Peiyuan , Li Pengfei , Li Wenjun
Published: January 2024

An organocatalytic remote stereocontrolled 1,8‐conjugated addition of in situ formed propargylic aza‐p‐QMs from α‐(4‐aminophenyl) propargylic alcohols and indole‐2‐carboxylates was developed, affording axially chiral tetrasubstituted allenes in 62–99% yield with 52–99% ee. The synthetic strategy not only enriches the chemistry of aza‐p‐quinone methides, but also provides an alternative tool for the preparation of axially chiral tetrasubstituted allenes.
Bomb pulse 14C evidence for consistent remodeling rates of cortical femur collagen in middle‐late adulthood
Authors: Quinn Rhonda L.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Bomb pulse (BP) radiocarbon (14C) dating methods are used by forensic anthropologists to estimate the year‐of‐death (YOD) of unidentified individuals. Method resolution and accuracy depend on establishing lag times, or the difference between a tissue's BP 14C‐derived year and the YOD, of various tissue types from known deceased persons. Bone lag times span many years and are thought to increase with age as a function of slowing remodeling rates. However, remodeling rates for various skeletal elements, bone structures and phases are not well known.

Materials and Methods

Here a simple method is used to estimate bone remodeling rates from a compilation of published cortical femur bone collagen BP 14C measurements (n = 102). Linear regression models and nonparametric tests are used to detect changes in lag times and remodeling rates with increasing age‐at‐death.

Results

Remodeling rates and lag times of 3.5%/year and 29 years, respectively, are estimated from individuals aged 40–97 years. In contrast to previous work, the analysis yielded modest and negligible changes in remodeling rates and lag times with advancing age. Moreover, statistically significant differences in remodeling rates and lag times were not found between reported females and males.

Discussion

Implications for the temporal contexts within an individual's lifetime of biogeochemical data in archaeology and forensic anthropology are discussed, warranting additional BP 14C studies of known individuals and integration with histomorphometric analysis.
Sulfonated Perylene as Three‐in‐One STING Agonist for Cancer Chemo‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhao Xuejie , Zheng Rijie , Zhang Bianbian , Zhao Ying , Xue Wanli , Fang Yingfei , Huang Yongwei , Yin Meizhen
Published: January 2024

Activation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) by cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) has been considered as a powerful immunotherapy strategy. While promising, the clinical translation of CDNs is still overwhelmed by its limited biostability and the resulting systemic immunotoxicity. Being differentiating from current application of exogenous CDNs to address these challenges, we herein developed one perylene STING agonist PDIC‐NS, which not only promotes the production of endogenous CDNs but also inhibits its hydrolysis. More significantly, PDIC‐NS can well reach lung‐selective enrichment, and thus mitigates the systemic immunotoxicity upon intravenous administration. As a result, PDIC‐NS had realized remarkable in vivo antitumor activity, and backward verified on STING knock out mice. Overall, this study states that PDIC‐NS can function as three‐in‐one small‐molecule STING agonist characterized by promoting the content and biostability of endogenous CDNs as well as possessing good tissue specificity, and hence presents an innovative strategy and platform for tumor chemo‐immunotherapy.
Probing the interface structure of block copolymer compatibilizers in semicrystalline polymer blends
Authors: Tang Xiaomin , Liu Changhao , Chen Jihua , Kumar Rajeev , Bowland Christopher C. , Saito Tomonori , Dial Brent E. , Keum Jong K. , Do Changwoo , Chen Xi Chelsea
Published: January 2024

The use of block copolymers to compatibilize immiscible plastics is an important strategy for upcycling municipal plastic wastes. Multiblock copolymers (MBCPs) have been proven to be more effective compatibilizers than di‐ and tri‐block copolymers. Herein, we probe the interface structure of an effective multiblock copolymer compatibilizer and compare that with an ineffective triblock copolymer (TBCP). The interface activity of the compatibilizers is understood through a combination of small‐angle neutron and x‐ray scatterings (SANS and SAXS), by using deuterated homopolymer matrix and protonated compatibilizers. SANS analysis suggests that the MBCP forms a thicker interface layer (7–9 nm) than the TBCP (0–4 nm). In addition, SANS data seems to point to a stronger tendency for the MBCP to locate at the interface. Both factors contribute to its effectiveness at compatibilizing immiscible homopolymers.
Enhancement of fire safety in epoxy resin composites through incorporation of microencapsulated diatomite
Authors: Wang Jin , Shen Xiaoyue , Jiang Mengwei , Zhou Fang , Zhang Yupeng
Published: January 2024

Diatomite (DIA) particles are commonly employed as flame‐retardant additives for polymers, yet their intrinsic inefficiency requires substantial quantities for optimal efficacy. To address this issue, we proposed a novel approach involving the microencapsulation of DIA with polyethylene glycol phosphate (PEGP) to enhance the flame retardancy of epoxy resin (EP). Characterization of the prepared DIA@PEGP utilized scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The resulting EP composite, DIA@PEGP‐4/EP, achieved a limiting oxygen index of 33.2% and achieved a V‐0 level in vertical combustion tests. Compared to EP, DIA@PEGP‐4/EP demonstrated significantly improved fire performance, with 38.6%, 47.8%, 25.0%, 41.3%, and 60.4% reduction in peak heat release rate, total heat release, peak smoke production rate, total smoke production, and CO yield. Furthermore, the highest FPI value of 0.080 m2·s/kW for DIA@PEGP‐1/EP and the lowest FGI value of 8.734 kW/m2·s for DIA@PEGP‐4/EP, indicate that the incorporation of DIA@PEGP into EP enhances its fire safety. The flame retardancy mechanism of DIA@PEGP‐4 involves the formation of a phosphorus‐containing aromatic carbon layer during EP char formation, capturing radicals in the gas phase during combustion.
Weighing in on miniaturization: New body mass estimates for Triassic eucynodonts and analyses of body size evolution during the cynodont‐mammal transition
Authors: Kaiuca João Felipe Leal , Martinelli Agustín Guillermo , Schultz Cesar Leandro , Fonseca Pedro Henrique Morais , Tavares William Corrêa , Soares Marina Bento
Published: January 2024

Body size influences most aspects of an animal's biology, consequently, evolutionary diversification is often accompanied by differentiation of body sizes within a lineage. It is accepted that miniaturization, or the evolution of extremely small body sizes, played a key role in the origin and early evolution of different mammalian characters in non‐mammaliaform cynodonts. However, while there are multiple studies on the biomechanical, behavioral, and physiological consequences of smaller sizes, few explore the evolutionary processes that lead to them. Here, we use body mass as a universal size measurement in phylogenetic comparative analyses to explore aspects of body size evolution in Cynodontia, focusing on the cynodont‐mammal transition, and test the miniaturization hypothesis for the origin of Mammaliaformes. We estimated the body masses of 29 species, ranging from Theriocephalia to Mammaliaformes, providing the largest collection of Triassic cynodont body mass estimates that we know of, and used these estimates in analyses of disparity through time and RRphylo. Unexpectedly, our results did not support the miniaturization hypothesis. Even though cynodont body size disparity fell during the Late Triassic, and remained lower than expected under a purely Brownian motion model of evolution up until the Early Jurassic, we found that rates of body size evolution were significantly lower in prozostrodontians leading to the first Mammaliaformes than in other lineages. Evolution rates were higher in medium and large‐sized taxa, indicating that size was changing more rapidly in those lineages and that small sizes were probably a persistent plesiomorphic character‐state in Cynodontia.
Potenzial direkter Materialuntersuchung im Bestand
Authors: Gebauer Daniel , Betz Peter , Fritsch Christina , Schacht Gregor , Marx Steffen
Published: January 2024

Die wiederkehrende Fragestellung zur Wahl möglicher Grundgesamtheiten im Kontext von Materialuntersuchungen an Brückenüberbauten aus Stahl‐ und Spannbeton sowie den Festigkeitsreserven von Bestandsbeton werden in diesem Aufsatz für den spezifischen Fall einer Spannbetonbrücke mit abschnittsweiser Herstellung auf Vorschubrüstung untersucht. Hierfür wurden aus der im Rückbau befindlichen Talbrücke Unterrieden 141 Bohrkerne entnommen und auf Druck‐, Spaltzugfestigkeit oder Elastizitätsmodul hin geprüft. Die ermittelten Datensätze werden statistisch analysiert und zeigen eindrucksvoll das Potenzial der direkten Ermittlung von Materialkennwerten am Bestandsbauwerk. Insbesondere bei der mittleren Druckfestigkeit werden die Festigkeitsannahmen auf Basis von Bestandsunterlagen um bis zu 40 % übertroffen. Die aus Materialprüfung ermittelten Rechenwerte übersteigen die Annahmen auf Basis von Bestandsunterlagen sogar um über 100 %. Weiterhin erfolgt eine Untersuchung zu potenziellen Grundgesamtheiten am Überbau, um Empfehlungen für zukünftige Beprobungen zu erarbeiten. Hierzu wird die entnommene Stichprobe in verschiedene potenzielle Grundgesamtheiten unterteilt und statistisch analysiert. Im Ergebnis zeigt sich ein sehr gleichmäßiges Bauwerk mit einer Streuung deutlich unter den normativen Annahmen, welches kaum Argumente zu Unterteilung des Überbaus in verschiedene Grundgesamtheiten liefert.
Realization of digital twin for dynamic control toward sample variation of ion exchange chromatography in antibody separation
Authors: Shi Ce , Chen Xu‐Jun , Zhong Xue‐Zhao , Yang Yan , Lin Dong‐Qiang , Chen Ran
Published: January 2024

Digital twin (DT) is a virtual and digital representation of physical objects or processes. In this paper, this concept is applied to dynamic control of the collection window in the ion exchange chromatography (IEC) toward sample variations. A possible structure of a feedforward model‐based control DT system was proposed. Initially, a precise IEC mechanistic model was established through experiments, model fitting, and validation. The average root mean square error (RMSE) of fitting and validation was 8.1% and 7.4%, respectively. Then a model‐based gradient optimization was performed, resulting in a 70.0% yield with a remarkable 11.2% increase. Subsequently, the DT was established by systematically integrating the model, chromatography system, online high‐performance liquid chromatography, and a server computer. The DT was validated under varying load conditions. The results demonstrated that the DT could offer an accurate control with acidic variants proportion and yield difference of less than 2% compared to the offline analysis. The embedding mechanistic model also showed a positive predictive performance with an average RMSE of 11.7% during the DT test under >10% sample variation. Practical scenario tests indicated that tightening the control target could further enhance the DT robustness, achieving over 98% success rate with an average yield of 72.7%. The results demonstrated that the constructed DT could accurately mimic real‐world situations and perform an automated and flexible pooling in IEC. Additionally, a detailed methodology for applying DT was summarized.
Word‐of‐mouth innovation: A product development shortcut for organic skin care entrepreneurs in Thailand?
Authors: Vittayavarakorn Narit , Sornsaruht Puris
Published: January 2024

This study explores the impact of perceived quality, brand attitude, consumer satisfaction, and the marketing mix on word‐of‐mouth innovation (WOMI) in the organic skincare industry in Thailand. Systematic random sampling was used in 2023 to select 453 organic skincare users whose questionnaire was expert‐validated and tested. Investigating these interconnected factors, the research contributes to consumer behavior and innovation theories. It reveals crucial links, notably between brand attitude and perceived quality, expanding theoretical frameworks. Beyond theoretical advancements, the study provides actionable insights for entrepreneurs, marketers, and policymakers. Recognizing the pivotal role of consumer reviews in driving WOMI, industry stakeholders can enhance product quality, tailor marketing strategies, and foster innovation. Bridging theory and practice, this research empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions, adapt strategies, and contribute to the growth of the organic skincare sector. In conclusion, the study enhances theoretical understanding while offering practical implications, fostering a symbiotic relationship between academic knowledge and industry advancements.
Identifying determinants of adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy following breast cancer: A systematic review of reviews
Authors: Todd Adam , Waldron Catherine , McGeagh Lucy , Norris Ruth , Bolnykh Iakov , Stewart Sarah Jane , Slodkowska‐Barabasz Joanna , Moon Zoe , Cahir Caitriona , Thompson Sue , Harmer Victoria , Wells Mary , Watson Eila , Sharp Linda ,   the SWEET Research Team
Published: January 2024

Background

In oestrogen‐receptor positive breast cancer, daily oral adjuvant endocrine therapy (ET) for at least 5 years significantly reduces risks of recurrence and breast cancer‐specific mortality. However, many women are poorly adherent to ET. Development of effective adherence support requires comprehensive understanding of influences on adherence. We undertook an umbrella review to identify determinants of ET adherence.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane and PROSPERO (inception to 08/2022) to identify systematic reviews on factors influencing ET adherence. Abstracted determinants were mapped to the World Health Organization's dimensions of adherence. Reviews were quality appraised and overlap assessed.

Results

Of 5732 citations screened, 17 reviews were eligible (9 quantitative primary studies; 4 qualitative primary studies; 4 qualitative or quantitative studies) including 215 primary papers. All five WHO dimensions influenced ET non‐adherence: The most consistently identified non‐adherence determinants were patient‐related factors (e.g. lower perceived ET necessity, more treatment concerns, perceptions of ET ‘cons’ vs. ‘pros’). Healthcare system/healthcare professional‐related factors (e.g. perceived lower quality health professional interaction/relationship) were also important and, to a somewhat lesser extent, socio‐economic factors (e.g. lower levels of social/economic/material support). Evidence was more mixed for medication‐related and condition‐related factors, but several may be relevant (e.g. experiencing side‐effects, cost). Potentially modifiable factors are more influential than non‐modifiable/fixed factors (e.g. patient characteristics).

Conclusions

The evidence‐base on ET adherence determinants is extensive. Future empirical studies should focus on less well‐researched areas and settings. The determinants themselves are numerous and complex in indicating that adherence support should be multifaceted, addressing multiple determinants.
Transcriptomics Analysis of the Immune Effects of Okadaic Acid on Caco‐2 Cells
Authors: Xu Ruihang , Wang Li , He Peimin , Jia Rui
Published: January 2024

Okadaic Acid, a type of diarrhetic shellfish poison, is widely distributed and harmful, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and more in humans. Recent studies have demonstrated that OA can lead to various toxicities such as cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, embryotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity. In order to investigate the immunotoxicity of OA on intestinal cells, a transcriptome analysis was conducted to compare the differences in the Caco‐2 cell transcriptional group before and after administration. The CCK‐8 experiment demonstrated that OA had a detrimental effect on the activity of Caco‐2 cells, with an IC50 value of 33.98 nM. Transcriptome data revealed changes in immune‐related genes between the experimental and control groups, including inflammatory factors, heat shock proteins, and zinc finger proteins. The analysis of the results suggests that OA can induce the production of inflammatory factors and apoptosis in cells, and may also affect cell ferroptosis. These findings indicate that OA has a significant impact on intestinal immunity, providing valuable insights for the study of immune toxicity associated with OA.
Amplifying T cell‐mediated antitumor immune responses in nonsmall cell lung cancer through photodynamic therapy and anti‐PD1
Authors: Gong Beilei , Wang Liping , Zhang Han , Wang Qingkai , Li Wei
Published: January 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is nowadays widely employed in cancer treatment. We sought to assess the efficacy of combining PDT with anti‐programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) and to investigate the associated mechanisms in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We established a xenograft tumor model in C57BL/6J mice using Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells, recorded tumor growth, and quantified reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels using a ROS detection kit. Pathological changes were assessed through H&E staining, while immunofluorescence (IF) was used to determine the expression of CD8 and Foxp3. Transcriptomic analysis was conducted, analyzing differential expressed genes (DEGs) among control, PDT, and PDT combined with anti‐PD1 (PDT+anti‐PD1) groups. Functional enrichment analysis via Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) was performed. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was utilized to analyze the expression of aminolevulinate synthase gene (ALAS2), integrin alpha10 (ITGA10), ATP1A2, a disintegrin and metalloprotease 12 (ADAM12), and Lox1 in lung adenocarcinoma and adjacent tissues, with concurrent immune infiltration analysis. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were employed to measure mRNA and protein expression levels. Treatment with PDT combined with anti‐PD1 significantly inhibited tumor growth and increased the number of CD8+ cells while decreasing Foxp3+ cells. Immune infiltration results presented ALAS2, ADAM12, and ITGA10 were associated with various types of T cells or macrophages. Additionally, the expression levels of EGFR, ERK, and PI3K/Akt were suppressed after PDT with anti‐PD1 treatment. Our findings collectively suggest that PDT combined with anti‐PD1 treatment could enhance the infiltration of CD8+ T cells, suppressing tumor growth, and this effect was associated with ALAS2, ITGA10, and ADAM12. The underlying mechanism might be linked to EGFR, ERK, and PI3K/Akt signaling. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the application of PDT combined with anti‐PD1 treatment in NSCLC.
Design of Multi‐Luminescent Silica‐Based Nanoparticles for the Detection of Liquid Organic Compounds
Authors: Delic Asmira , Lindgren Mikael , Psarrou Maria , Economopoulos Solon , Mariussen Espen , Krivokapic Alexander , Torsæter Ole , Omran Mohamed , Einarsrud Mari‐Ann
Published: January 2024

Tracer testing in reservoir formations is utilised to determine residual oil saturation as part of optimum hydrocarbon production. Here, we present a novel detection method of liquid organic compounds by monodisperse SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) containing two luminophores, a EuIII:EDTA complex and a newly synthesised fluorophore based on the organic boron‐dipyrromethene (BODIPY)‐moiety. The particles exhibited stable EuIII PL emission intensity with a long lifetime in aqueous dispersion. The fluorescence of the BODIPY was also preserved in the aqueous environment. The ratiometric PL detection technique was demonstrated by using toluene and 1‐octanol as model compounds of crude oil. The optimal synthesis conditions were found to give NPs with a diameter of ~100 nm, which is suitable for transport through porous oil reservoir structures. The cytotoxicity of the NPs was confirmed to be very low for human lung cell and fish cell lines. These findings demonstrate the potential of the NPs to replace the hazardous chemicals used to estimate the residual oil saturation. Moreover, the ratiometric PL detection technique is anticipated to be of benefit in other fields, such as biotechnology, medical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring, where a reliable and safe detection of a liquid organic phase is needed.
Synthesis and Isolation of a Homochiral Nanohoop Composed of a Tröger's Base and Hexaparaphenylene
Authors: Yoshigoe Yusuke , Shimada Hirotaka , Takaki Takuya , Imai Yoshitane , Saito Shinich
Published: January 2024

The synthesis of a new nanohoop containing a stereogenic Tröger's base skeleton tethered to a curved hexaparaphenylene ([6]CPP) is reported. The TB[6]CPP nanohoop possesses a stable C2 symmetrical structure, which promotes the allowed transition that gives rise to pale blue emission with a quantum yield of ~0.69, surpassing the value of the more symmetrical [8]CPP. Moreover, TB[6]CPP shows chiroptical properties including circular dichroism and circularly polarized luminescence with a moderate dissymmetry factor (|glum|) of ~2.1×10−3
Providing context for the HIPECT4 results
Authors: Hoehn Richard S. , Ammori John B. , Rothermel Luke D. , Winter Jordan M. , Charles Ron , Chakrabarti Sakti
Published: January 2024

The recent HIPECT4 and FOxTROT studies provide new options for patients with locally advanced colon cancer. This commentary compares outcomes from these trials and reviews available evidence for hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in the setting of colorectal cancer.
Noble‐Metal‐Free Carbon Encapsulated CoNi Alloy Catalyst for the Hydrogenation of 5‐(Hydroxymethyl) Furfural to Tetrahydrofurandiol in Aqueous Media
Authors: Arias Karen S. , Hurtado Beatriz , Climent Maria J. , Iborra Sara , Corma Avelino
Published: January 2024

The selective hydrogenation of 5‐(hydroxymethyl)furfural (HMF) into 2,5‐bis‐(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran (BHMTHF) in flow reactor using water as a green solvent, has been achieved on a non‐noble metal catalyst based on monodispersed CoNi alloy nanoparticles covered by a thin carbon layer. The alloyed catalyst containing CoNi (molar ratio 1 : 1) was prepared in a one‐step synthesis following a hydrothermal method. Total conversion of HMF with 91 % selectivity to BHMTHF was achieved. The reaction network has been stablished, in which the carbonyl group of HMF is first reduced to alcohol giving the 2,5‐bis‐(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF) with an apparent activation energy of 25 KJ/mol, and then the double bonds of the furan ring are hydrogenated (apparent Ea=31 KJ/mol). Formation of byproducts, mainly proceed from furan ring opening and ring rearrangement processes of BHMF, promoted by water. BHMTHF resulted a compound highly stable under reaction conditions. The fixed bed flow reactor was maintained operational for 65 h without observing any loss of catalytic activity and selectivity.
A new floating memcapacitor emulator circuit without using passive elements
Authors: Korkmaz Muhammet Oguz , Babacan Yunus , Yesil Abdullah
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a new floating memcapacitor emulator that consists of a single multiplier and only four transistors without using passive elements is proposed. While two of these transistors work as MOS capacitors, two of them are used to provide transconductance gain. Moreover, the proposed memcapacitor operates at high frequencies thanks to having simple structures. Furthermore, fix and variable parts of memcapacitance can be tuned electronically by changing DC bias voltages. In order to investigate the performance of the proposed memcapacitor, simulation results are given for different operating frequencies, radical temperature changes, memory effects, and Monte Carlo analysis. Moreover, to confirm the practical realization of the proposed memcapacitor, the proposed floating memcapacitor is implemented by using commercial devices as AD633, ALD1106, and ALD1107. Experimental results of the proposed circuit are given for different operating frequencies and DC supply voltages. Also, a memcapacitor‐based circuit that emulates the relationship between the amoeba's locomotive speed and temperature is given as an application of the proposed memcapacitor. The results for the proposed memcapacitor are in good agreement with theoretical data.
Reconstruction of synthetic aperture radar data using hybrid compressive sensing and deep neural network algorithm
Authors: Paramasivam Saranya , Kaliyaperumal Vani
Published: January 2024

The reconstruction of reflectivity profile of the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) is an important field of research. SAR tomography is an advanced 3D imaging technique for the spectrum estimation in the elevation direction for each azimuth resolution cell. This work presents the processing chain for the tomographic reconstruction from ALOS PALSAR data for an urban region. First, the data are preprocessed by removing the speckle noise followed by atmospheric phase screen and topographic correction. Then the SAR images are stacked together with one master image and the remaining slave images on the baseline value. After the images are coregistered, the interferogram is generated from the image to obtain the difference of the phase value. Then the proposed super resolution SAR (SRS) algorithm is attempted for TomoSAR processing, which combines the functionality of modern machine learning method like deep learning with parametric block‐based compressive sensing approach. Finally, a 3D image is reconstructed from the input data. Evaluation is carried out by comparing the results of the proposed method with other spectrum estimation methods such as nonlinear least square, Capon, and multisignal classification. The normal baseline of the interferometric fringes is about 368.54 m. The proposed SRS algorithm gives improved results with less mean elevation error of 1.8 m and the less standard deviation error of 4.85 m. Finally, the result reveals that the SRS algorithm performed better than other TomoSAR algorithms with the less relative error 0.003.
Costunolide attenuates high‐fat diet‐induced inflammation and oxidative stress in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Wang Jiong , Jin Bo , Chen Yanghao , Chen Yi , Zuo Wei , Huang Lijiang , Lin Jianjun , Jiang Yongsheng , Xie Longteng , Lian Xiang , Wang Yi
Published: January 2024

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive disease that can further evolve towards liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in the end stage. Costunolide (Cos) is a natural sesquiterpene lactone that exhibits both anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, the therapeutic effect of Cos on NAFLD is not clear. In this study, we explored the potential protective effect and mechanism of Cos on NAFLD. C57BL/6 mice were fed with high‐fat diet (HFD) to induce NAFLD. Cos was administered by gavage to observe the effect of Cos on NAFLD. We demonstrated that oral administration of Cos reduced HFD‐induced hepatic fibrosis and the release of inflammatory cytokines, limiting the generation of reactive oxygen species. In vitro experiments revealed that pretreatment with Cos significantly decreased PA‐induced production of inflammatory cytokines and fibrosis in AML‐12 cells. Mechanism study showed that the effect of Cos was correlated to the induction of Nrf‐2 and inhibition of NF‐κB pathways. Collectively, these findings indicated that Cos exerts hepatoprotective effect against NAFLD through blocking inflammation and oxidative stress. Our study suggested that Cos might be an effective pharmacotherapy for the treatment of NAFLD.
Comparison of surgical outcomes of transoral robotic and endoscopic thyroidectomy: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Nguyen Van Cuong , Song Chang Myeon , Ji Yong Bae , Oh Sukjoong , Jeong Jin Hyeok , Tae Kyung
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to compare surgical outcomes of transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT) and transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA), concurrently compared with conventional transcervical thyroidectomy (CTT). A network meta‐analysis, comprising 23 studies, was performed in this study. The operative time of the CTT group was significantly shorter than that of the TOETVA and TORT groups. The hospital stay of the TOETVA group was significantly longer than that of the CTT group. Rates of transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy and total complications were higher in association with TOETVA than with TORT. No significant differences were found between the three groups in intraoperative blood loss, retrieved lymph nodes, postoperative pain, and other complications. Cosmetic satisfaction was significantly superior with TORT and TOETVA than with CTT. Compared with CTT, TOETVA and TORT showed superior cosmesis but no significant difference in surgical outcomes except for operative time and hospital stay.
Healthy lifestyle and cancer survival: A multinational cohort study
Authors: Bian Zilong , Zhang Rongqi , Yuan Shuai , Fan Rong , Wang Lijuan , Larsson Susanna C. , Theodoratou Evropi , Zhu Yimin , Wu Shouling , Ding Yuan , Li Xue
Published: January 2024

Lifestyle factors after a cancer diagnosis could influence the survival of cancer 60 survivors. To examine the independent and joint associations of healthy lifestyle factors with mortality outcomes among cancer survivors, four prospective cohorts (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey [NHANES], National Health Interview Survey [NHIS], UK Biobank [UKB] and Kailuan study) across three countries. A healthy lifestyle score (HLS) was defined based on five common lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol drinking, diet, physical activity and body mass index) that related to cancer survival. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) for the associations of individual lifestyle factors and HLS with all‐cause and cancer mortality among cancer survivors. During the follow‐up period of 37,095 cancer survivors, 8927 all‐cause mortality events were accrued in four cohorts and 4449 cancer death events were documented in the UK and US cohorts. Never smoking (adjusted HR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.69–0.86), light alcohol consumption (adjusted HR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.82–0.90), adequate physical activity (adjusted HR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.85–0.94), a healthy diet (adjusted HR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.61–0.78) and optimal BMI (adjusted HR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85–0.93) were significantly associated with a lower risk of all‐cause mortality. In the joint analyses of HLS, the HR of all‐cause and cancer mortality for cancer survivors with a favorable HLS (4 and 5 healthy lifestyle factors) were 0.55 (95% CI 0.42–0.64) and 0.57 (95% CI 0.44–0.72), respectively. This multicohort study of cancer survivors from the United States, the United Kingdom and China found that greater adherence to a healthy lifestyle might be beneficial in improving cancer prognosis.
Metformin ameliorates mitochondrial damage induced by C9orf72 poly(GR) via upregulating AKT phosphorylation
Authors: Feng Yiyuan , Xu Zhongyun , Jin Hongfu , Chen Yuanyuan , Fu Chenglai , Zhang Yu , Yin Yafu , Wang Hui , Cheng Weiwei
Published: January 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are devastating neurodegenerative diseases with no effective cure. GGGGCC repeat expansion in C9orf72 is the most common genetic cause of both ALS and FTD. A key pathological feature of C9orf72 related ALS/FTD is the presence of abnormal dipeptide repeat proteins translated from GGGGCC repeat expansion, including poly Glycine‐Arginine (GR). In this study, we observed that (GR)50 conferred significant mitochondria damage and cytotoxicity. Metformin, the most widely used clinical drug, successfully relieved (GR)50 induced mitochondrial damage and inhibited (GR)50 related cytotoxicity. Further research revealed metformin effectively restored mitochondrial function by upregulating AKT phosphorylation in (GR)50 expressed cells. Taken together, our results indicated restoring mitochondrial function with metformin may be a rational therapeutic strategy to reduce poly(GR) toxicity in C9orf72 ALS/FTD patients.
Platelet‐rich plasma does not accelerate the healing of damaged muscle following muscle strain
Authors: Fusagawa Hiroyori , Yamada Takashi , Sato Tatsuya , Ashida Yuki , Teramoto Atsushi , Takashima Hiroyuki , Naito Azuma , Tokuda Nao , Yamauchi Nao , Ichise Nobutoshi , Ogon Izaya , Yamashita Toshihiko , Tohse Noritsugu
Published: January 2024

Although platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has been widely used regardless of the severity of muscle strain, there have been very few basic studies in which its effects on muscle injury were examined by using models that accurately mimic the clinical muscle strain injury process. Therefore, the aim of this study was to confirm by physiological and structural analyses whether PRP purified by a general preparation method has a muscle healing effect on muscle damage caused by eccentric contraction (ECC). Male Wistar rats were subjected to muscle injury induced by ECC in bilateral plantar flexor muscles using electrical stimulation and an automatically dorsiflexing footplate. The rats were randomly assigned to three groups by type of injection: phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), leukocyte‐poor PRP (LP‐PRP), or leukocyte‐rich PRP (LR‐PRP) injection into gastrocnemius muscles three times at weekly intervals. The platelet concentrations of the LP‐PRP and LR‐PRP were three to five times higher than that of whole blood. The recovery process of torque strength in the plantar flexor muscle, signal changes in MRI images, and histological evaluation 3 weeks after injury showed no obvious differences among the three groups, and every muscle recovered well from the injury without marked fibrosis. The results that neither LP‐PRP nor LR‐PRP was found to accelerate healing of muscle injuries suggested that conventional preparation and use of PRP for simple muscle injuries caused by muscle strain should be carefully considered, and further basic research using models that accurately mimic clinical practice should be carried out to determine the optimal use of PRP.
(Resonance) Raman optical activity among chiroptical spectroscopies: Quo vadis?
Authors: Halat Monika , Pajor Katarzyna , Baranski Rafal , Baranska Malgorzata
Published: January 2024

Although the potential of Raman Optical Activity (ROA) spectroscopy in the field of organic and inorganic materials research has been well demonstrated, its practical application is still limited. This work shows historical background, current state of the art and challenges of ROA spectroscopy facing scientists today. Expectations and development prospects for the coming years are also discussed. Efforts have already been made to improve but also to properly interpret the ROA signal when the ROA technique is combined with other spectroscopies (i.e., ROA/Electronic Circular Dichroism and ROA/Circularly Polarized Luminescence). The paper shows how to intensify the ROA effect to shorten the spectrum accumulation time, control possible artefacts and support the analysis of ROA spectra with actual and new theoretical approaches. However, the challenge is to increase the interest in this technique among the academic community, develop reliable protocols and adapt them for practical use. National and international research networks can significantly contribute to the growth of methodologies and standardization in areas in which the ROA has so far been little used. This paper presents a perspective vision for the future progress of ROA alongside other chiroptical methods.
Trauma exposure and transdiagnostic distress: Examining shared and posttraumatic stress disorder–specific associations
Authors: Crowe Michael L. , Hawn Sage E. , Wolf Erika J. , Keane Terence M. , Marx Brian P.
Published: January 2024

We examined transdiagnostic and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)–specific associations with multiple forms of trauma exposure within a nationwide U.S. sample (N = 1,649, 50.0% female) of military veterans overselected for PTSD. A higher‐order Distress factor was estimated using PTSD, major depressive disorder (MDD), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) symptoms as indicators. A structural equation model spanning three assessment points over an average of 3.85 years was constructed to examine the unique roles of higher‐order Distress and PTSD‐specific variance in accounting for the associations between trauma exposure, measured using the Life Events Checklist (LEC) and Deployment Risk and Resiliency Inventory Combat subscale (DRRI‐C), and psychosocial impairment. The results suggest the association between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms was primarily mediated by higher‐order distress (70.7% of LEC effect, 63.2% of DRRI‐C effect), but PTSD severity retained a significant association with trauma exposure independent of distress, LEC: β = .10, 95% CI [.06, .13]; DRRI‐C: β = .11, 95% CI [.07, .14]. Both higher‐order distress, β = .31, and PTSD‐specific variance, β = .36, were necessary to account for the association between trauma exposure and future impairment. Findings suggest that trauma exposure may contribute to comorbidity across a range of internalizing symptoms as well as to PTSD‐specific presentations.
Simulation and parameter extraction of flying‐bird motion echo based on laser micro‐Doppler effect
Authors: Yang Zhen , Jiao Dan , Dai Xin , Zhang Yong , Zhang Jianlong
Published: January 2024

To solve the problem of target recognition for flying‐birds and biomimetic flapping‐wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), a rectangular‐trapezoidal composite scattering model for lidar detection of bird wings has been proposed and established. According to the model, the influence of different line‐of‐sight angles on the time–frequency distribution characteristics of laser micro‐Doppler under the same flapping wing motion was simulated and studied. Then, the flapping‐wing frequency and maximum frequency shift are extracted based on the two‐dimensional Fourier transform and the least squares method. When signal noise ratio = 5 dB, the accuracy rate of flapping‐wing frequency extraction can reach at 100%, the maximum relative error of frequency shift for inner contour extraction is less than 3.0%, and the maximum relative error of frequency shift for outer contour extraction is less than 7.2%.
Assisted reproductive technology and physical activity among Chinese pregnant women at high risk for gestational diabetes mellitus in early pregnancy: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chen Lu , Deng Yong‐Fang , Fan Mei‐Qiong , Yuan Hao Bin , Meng Li‐Rong , Gao Ling‐Ling
Published: January 2024

Currently, the number of pregnant women at high risk for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and using assisted reproductive technology (ART) is increasing. The present study aims to explore the relationship between ART and physical activity in Chinese pregnant women at high risk for GDM in early pregnancy. A cross‐sectional study was conducted in a regional teaching hospital in Guangzhou, China, between July 2022 and March 2023. Three hundred fifty‐five pregnant women at high risk for GDM in early pregnancy completed the Chinese version of the Pregnant Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), the Pregnancy Physical Activity Knowledge Scale, the Pregnancy Physical Activity Self‐Efficacy Scale, the Pregnancy Physical Activity Social Support Scale, and a sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics data sheet. Compared to women who conceived naturally, women who used ART were more likely to be 35 years or older, unemployed, primigravidae, and to have intentionally planned their pregnancies. Women who used ART had significantly lower levels of physical activity and self‐efficacy compared to their counterparts who conceived naturally. Over half (55.6%) of women who used ART reported being physically inactive, and those with lower self‐efficacy, as well as the unemployed, were significantly more likely to be inactive. Physical inactivity is a critical clinical issue among women who use ART, especially in the context of GDM risk. Future research should develop and test physical activity programs, including enhancing physical activity self‐efficacy for women who use ART. Patient or public contribution: In this study, survey questionnaires were completed by participants among Chinese pregnant women at high risk for GDM in early pregnancy.
Net prices of new antiobesity medications
Authors: Hernandez Inmaculada , Sullivan Sean D.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP1s) are effective antiobesity drugs and the subject of intense debate around insurance coverage due to the large prevalence of obesity and overweight. The estimation of the budget impact associated with GLP1 insurance coverage requires estimates of GLP1 prices that account for manufacturer discounts. The authors applied a peer‐reviewed method to estimate the net prices of GLP1s after manufacturer discounts.

Methods

The authors estimated manufacturer discounts for each product as the difference between the gross sales estimated at list price and manufacturer‐reported revenue. From this difference, the authors subtracted discounts to government programs, including 340B, Medicaid, and the Medicare Part D coverage gap, and attributed the remaining amount to manufacturer discounts provided in the commercial market.

Results

Manufacturer discounts for GLP1s approved for obesity were estimated at 41%, which translated into net prices of $717 to $761 per month of supply. Manufacturer discounts for GLP1s approved for type 2 diabetes ranged from 54% to 59%, which translated into net prices of $312 to $469 per month of supply.

Conclusions

The magnitude of manufacturer discounts underscores the need to consider net price information in studies that inform private and public payers' decision‐making around coverage of GLP1s for obesity.
Making Waves: The Role of Indigenous Water Beings in Debates about Human and Non‐Human Rights
Authors: Strang Veronica
Published: January 2024

Rejecting nature‐culture dualism, contemporary anthropology recognises the mutually constitutive processes that create shared human and non‐human lifeworlds. Such recognition owes much to ethnographic engagement with diverse indigenous cosmologies many of which have, for millennia, upheld ideas about indivisible worlds in which all living kinds occupy a shared ontological space and non‐human species and environments are approached respectfully, with expectations of reciprocity and partnership. As many societies confront the global chaos caused by the anthropocentric prioritisation of human interests, anthropologists and indigenous communities are therefore well placed to articulate alternative models in which the non‐human domain is dealt with more equitably and inclusively. This paper is located comparatively in long‐term ethnographic research with indigenous communities in Australia, alongside the Mitchell River in North Queensland and the Brisbane River in South Queensland. It draws more specifically on involvement in legal claims for water rights by Māori iwis in New Zealand; in land claims by the Kunjen language group in Cape York; and in a recent ‘sea country’ case brought against a major multi‐national by the Tiwi Islanders in Australia's Northern Territory. It also makes use of a major comparative study of water beings in diverse cultural and historical contexts, and considers the central importance of water beings such as Māori taniwha and the Australian Rainbow Serpent in such legal conflicts, and in broader debates about human and non‐human rights. Like other water deities around the world, these beings personify the generative (and potentially punitive) powers of water and its co‐creative role in shaping human and non‐human lives. They are resurfacing today with an important representational role in contemporary conflicts over land and water.
Initial Experience With Robotic‐Assisted Otologic and Lateral Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Garcia Alejandro , Shave Samantha , Cheng Yew S. , Santos Felipe , Quesnel Alicia , Cohen Michael S. , Lee Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

Robotic‐assisted surgery has gained popularity for otolaryngology procedures. It provides high‐definition images and surgical precision to perform diverse procedures. It is an alternative to the operating microscope, endoscope, or exoscope when reaching hidden anatomical structures in the ear. In this proof‐of‐concept study, we aim to demonstrate the possibility of using a robotic‐assisted device to perform ear surgery in conjunction with the microscope or the endoscope. In total, there were 9 ear and lateral skull base procedures performed with the use of robotic‐assisted surgery. All surgeons underwent surveys to assess the performance and workload of the device compared to the microscope or endoscope. There were no postoperative complications. Robotic‐assisted surgery was optimal for providing high image quality, ergonomics, and maintaining surgical performance. The size of the device and mental demand were higher compared to the microscope or endoscope. Robotic‐assisted surgery can be an adjuvant to perform otologic and neurotologic surgery.
Registration of ‘Coastcross II’ forage bermudagrass
Authors: Anderson William F. , Powell Jerrel , Hanna Wayne W. , Burton Glenn , Davis M.
Published: January 2024

‘Coastcross II’ (CC II; Reg. no. CV‐49, PI 673409) forage bermudagrass (Cynodon sp.) was released as an associate cultivar in Georgia in July 2014. Coastcross II originated from gamma‐ray irradiation of sprigs of Coastcross I (CC I) in 1971. After irradiation, greater than a half million sprigs were planted in north Georgia (Blairsville), where CC II was one of four surviving plants after winter freezes. Subsequent testing has shown that CC II has superior yields to CC I and is comparable to ‘Tifton 85’. Coastcross II also has significantly higher tolerance to bermudagrass stem maggot than fine‐stemmed cultivars. Coastcross II has significantly finer stems than Tifton 85, which makes it more conducive to hay production.
Effects of a peer‐led physical activity program on psychosocial outcomes among breast cancer survivors
Authors: Pinto Bernardine M. , Dunsiger Shira I. , Kindred Madison , Mitchell Sheryl , DeScenza Victoria
Published: January 2024

Objective

To examine the effects of three programs aimed at maintaining moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on breast cancer survivors' quality of life, physical functioning, fatigue and mood.

Methods

161 survivors participated in a 12‐month randomized controlled study and were assigned to one of three groups: Reach Plus, Reach Plus Message, or Reach Plus Phone. All participants received the same intervention for the first 3 months (weekly calls from peer coach) for MVPA adoption. In Months 4–9, Reach Plus monitored MVPA and received feedback reports. Reach Plus Message monitored MVPA and received weekly text/email messages and feedback reports. Reach Plus Phone participants monitored MVPA and received monthly calls from coaches and feedback reports. Intervention delivery ended at 9 months. Assessments were obtained at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12‐months. Analyses used a series of longitudinal mixed effects models with subject‐specific intercepts.

Results

All groups improved significantly across time on psychosocial measures. At 9 months, Reach Plus Message and Reach Plus Phone reported better physical functioning compared to Reach Plus (b = 8.27, 95% CI: [2.27, 14.27]; b = 4.89, 95% CI: [0.01, 10.53]) respectively). At 12 months, Reach Plus Message reported better physical functioning than Reach Plus (b = 4.52, 95% CI: [0.01, 9.75]. Participants who met national PA guidelines reported significantly lower fatigue and higher physical functioning (at 9 and 12 months), and improved mood (at 12 months).

Conclusions

MVPA maintenance via weekly messages or monthly coach calls improved physical functioning. Maintaining MVPA at or above national recommendations was associated with improved physical functioning, mood and less fatigue.