bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remarkable White Circularly Polarized Electroluminescence Based on Chiral Co‐assembled Helix Nanofiber Emitters
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Yupeng , Quan Yiwu , Ye Shanghui , Cheng Yixiang
Published: November 2022

White circularly polarized organic light‐emitting diodes (CP‐WOLEDs) are of great significance in potential lighting sources and full‐color 3D displays. However, High‐performance white CP‐EL sources are almost unexplored. We have constructed full‐color CP‐EL devices based on chiral co‐assemblies by using three achiral conjugated pyrene‐based dyes (BP, w‐WP and c‐WP) doped with chiral binaphthyl‐based enantiomers (S‐/R‐M) as the EMLs through an intermolecular chirality induction mechanism. (S‐/R‐M)0.2‐(c‐WP)0.8 films exhibit regular helix nanofibers under annealing treatment and emit strong white CPL. Significantly, remarkable CP‐WOLEDs based on (S‐/R‐M)0.2‐(c‐WP)0.8 were achieved with |gEL| values as high as 6.2×10−2 and an excellent CRI of 98 at the CIE coordinates of (0.33, 0.33). These are the highest gEL and CRI values of reported CP‐WOLEDs to date. This is the first achievement of CP‐WOLEDs based on chiral co‐assembled helix nanofiber emitters, and provides a valuable strategy with which to develop white CP‐EL for future practical applications.
Tumor‐Selective Activation of Toll‐Like Receptor 7/8 Agonist Nano‐Immunomodulator Generates Safe Anti‐Tumor Immune Responses upon Systemic Administration
Authors: Hao Yanyun , Li Hui , Ge Xiaoyan , Liu Yang , Li Xia , Liu Yutong , Chen Hongfei , Zhang Shiying , Zou Jing , Huang Lingling , Zhao Fabao , Kang Dongwei , De Geest Bruno G. , Zhang Zhiyue
Published: November 2022

Agonists of innate pattern recognition receptors such as toll‐like receptors (TLRs) prime adaptive anti‐tumor immunity and hold promise for cancer immunotherapy. However, small‐molecule TLR agonists cause immune‐related adverse effects (irAEs) after systemic administration. Herein, we report a polymeric nano‐immunomodulator (cN@SS‐IMQ) that is inactive until it is selectively metabolized to an active immunostimulant within the tumor. cN@SS‐IMQ was obtained via self‐assembly of a cyclo(Arg‐Gly‐Asp‐D‐Phe‐Lys)‐modified amphiphilic copolymeric prodrug. Upon systemic administration, cN@SS‐IMQ preferentially accumulated at tumor sites and responded to high intracellular glutathione levels to release native imidazoquinolines for dendritic cell maturation, thereby enhancing the infiltration of T lymphocytes. Collectively, cN@SS‐IMQ tends to activate the immune system without irAEs, thus suggesting its promising potential for safe systemic targeting delivery.
Temperature‐Controlled Mechanochemistry Unlocks the Nickel‐Catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura‐Type Coupling of Aryl Sulfamates at Different Scales
Authors: Reynes Javier F. , García Felipe
Published: November 2022

Several mechanochemically heated processes have been published in recent years. However, precise control over the mechanochemical catalysed coupling reactions remained elusive. A recent report from Leitch, Browne and co‐workers demonstrated how a programmable jar heater manifold delivers an efficient methodology for the Suzuki–Miyaura‐type cross coupling reaction of aryl sulfamates and aryl boronic acid species. This methodology can be readily upscaled 200‐fold using twin‐screw extrusion methodologies.
Dynamic bond exchangeable thermoset vitrimers in 3D‐printing
Authors: Krishna Kumar Balaji , Dickens Tarik J.
Published: November 2022

Dynamic bond exchanging vitrimers have emerged recently due to their malleability, self‐heal ability, recyclability, and mechanical stability. Likewise, 3D printing is consciously introduced at different platforms for ease of fabrication, high throughput, cost‐effectiveness, and waste reduction. These two distinctive techniques have recently made their consensus performance, resulting from a phenomenal change in the printing field. Conventionally, thermoplastic inks have been primarily used in 3D printing, owing to their effortless processability. At the same time, thermosets were utilized for their superior mechanical strength. However, these two essential properties have been required to be presented in the printed material. In that scenario, thermoset vitrimer materials have been introduced in 3D printing, where malleability and mechanical stability have been observed in the same material. Thus, this article details the recent vitrimer material included with the different 3D printing system systems with their reported results to understand and make them widespread. Eventually, the outlook and perspectives could be helpful to understand and enhance this specific field.
Synthesis of poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) containing high glycolide contents by ring‐opening polymerization as well as their structural characterizations, thermal properties, morphologies, and hydrophilicity
Authors: Phan Van Hoang‐Khang , Tai Yi‐Hsin , Chiang Tai‐Chin , Yu Chin‐Yang
Published: November 2022

Random copolymers, poly(l‐lactide‐r‐glycolide) are synthesized by one‐pot ring‐opening polymerization of l‐lactide and glycolide in the presence of stannous octoate and 1‐dodecanol. Block copolymers, poly(l‐lactide‐b‐glycolide) are synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization of l‐lactide to generate poly(l‐lactide) first and then further ring‐opening polymerization of glycolide in the presence of poly(l‐lactide) and stannous octoate. The composition ratio of l‐lactide and glycolide is determined by the integration of the corresponding signals from 1H NMR spectra, which is consistent with the feeding ratio. Very few hetero‐sequences can be observed for block copolymers due to well‐defined microstructures. The block copolymers are more thermally stable than that of the random copolymers. The degree of crystallinity of the bock copolymers is relatively high compared to that of the random copolymers. The image of the block copolymers determined by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) shows partial aggregate domains containing spherical particles with an average diameter of around 200 nm, which is very different from that of the random copolymers. Block copolymers are more hydrophilic than that of the random copolymers due to the ordered structure and amphiphilic behavior of the block series.
Metal‐Free Photochemical Radical Cyclization for the Synthesis of Pyrrolo[3,2‐c]‐quinolines with One‐Carbon Unit
Authors: Ma Na , Yin Jianhui , Huang Wenjing , Fan Li , Gao Fei
Published: November 2022

An efficient and environmentally‐friendly method for carbon‐centered radical cyclization of olefins via visible light photoredox catalysis to afford pyrrolo[3,2‐c]‐quinolines, oxindoles and quinoline‐2,4‐diones is described. This novel reaction successfully activated the α C−H bonds in one‐carbon units such as esters, chlorinated hydrocarbons and cyano compounds via HAT (hydrogen atom transfer) process by means of aryldiazonium salts. The transformation features good functional group tolerance, broad substrate scope, high atom economy, no need for transition metal or high temperature.
Thermochemical conversion of African balsam leaves‐cow dung hybrid wastes into biochar
Authors: Adeniyi Adewale George , Ogunniyi Samuel , Iwuozor Kingsley O. , Emenike Ebuka Chizitere
Published: November 2022

African balsam (Daniella oliveri) leaves and cow dung are waste materials that are commonly accessible in Africa and can be used to produce biochar by simultaneous thermochemical processing. In this study, biochar was produced in a retort‐heated, non‐electrically powered, top‐lit updraft reactor using the biomass fuel‐powered thermochemical conversion of dried cow dung and African balsam leaves at an average temperature of 320 °C. The biochar was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential thermal analysis/thermogravimetric analysis (DTA/TGA), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analyses. After carbonization for 100 min, biochar was obtained from processed mixed leaves/cow dung with a yield of 70%. Fourier transform infrared analysis showed the presence of alkene, hydroxyl, alkyne, alkane, and sulfur‐containing functional groups. Scanning electron micrographs showed that the biochar's surface was made up of fibrillated particles with very few pores. The biochar was observed to have a surface area of 328.199 m2/g with a higher pore volume and lower pore size than biochar produced from cow dung alone. Energy dispersive spectroscopy showed that the biochar is mostly made up of carbon (67%), and that the introduction of the leaves into the biochar feedstock increased its carbon, silicon, potassium, and bromine content. Differential thermal analysis/thermogravimetric analyses revealed the biochar to be thermally stable. The findings of this study are helpful for attempts to manage solid wastes (African balsam leaves and cow dung), reduce environmental pollution, and produce biochar whose properties are adequate for it to be used as a soil additive. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ESE1/AGR2 axis antagonizes TGF‐β‐induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in low‐grade pancreatic cancer
Authors: Xu Hui‐Jing , Bai Jing , Tian Ye , Feng Xiao , Chen Ai‐Ping , Wang Jie , Wu Jin , Jin Xu‐Ru , Zhang Feng , Quan Mei‐Yu , Chen Chengshui , Lee Kwang‐youl , Zhang Jin‐San
Published: November 2022

Epithelium‐specific ETS transcription factor 1 (ESE1) has been implicated in epithelial homeostasis, inflammation, as well as tumorigenesis, and cancer progression. However, numerous studies have reported contradictory roles—as an oncogene or a tumor suppressor of ESE1 in different cancers, and its function in the development and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has remained largely unexplored. Herein, we report that ESE1 was found upregulated in primary PDAC compared to normal pancreatic tissue, but high expression of ESE1 correlated to better relapse‐free survival in patients with PDAC. Interestingly, ESE1 was found to exhibit dual roles in regulation of malignant properties of PDAC cells in that its overexpression promoted cell proliferation, whereas its downregulation enhanced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. In the context of TGF‐β‐induced EMT, ESE1 is markedly downregulated at post‐transcriptional level, and reconstituted ESE1 expression partially reversed TGF‐β‐induced EMT marker expression. Furthermore, we identify AGR2 as a novel transcriptional target of ESE1 that participates in TGF‐β‐induced EMT in PDAC. Collectively, our findings reveal an ESE1/AGR2 axis that interacts with TGF‐β signaling to modulate EMT phenotype in PDAC.
Termviewer – A Web Application for Streamlined Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) Tagging and Document Annotation
Authors: Nixon Anna , Fang Li , Havrilla James M. , Wang Kai
Published: November 2022

Clinical notes from electronic health records (EHRs) contain a large amount of clinical phenotype data on patients that can provide insights into the phenotypic presentation of various diseases. A number of Natural Language Processing (NLP) algorithms have been utilized in the past few years to annotate medical concepts, such as Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) terms, from clinical notes. However, efficient use of NLP algorithms requires the use of high‐quality clinical notes with phenotype descriptions, and erroneous annotations often exist in results from these NLP algorithms. Manual review by human experts is often needed to compile the correct phenotype information on individual patients. Here we develop TermViewer, a web application that allows multi‐party collaborative annotation and quality assessment of clinical notes that have already been processed and tagged by NLP algorithms. TermViewer allows users to view clinical notes with HPO terms highlighted, and to easily classify high‐quality notes and revise incorrect tagging of HPO terms. Currently, TermViewer combines MetaMap and cTAKES, two of the most widely used NLP tools for tagging medical terms, and identifies where these two tools agree and disagree, allowing users to perform collaborative manual reviews of computationally generated HPO annotations. TermViewer can be a stand‐alone tool for analyzing notes or become part of a machine‐learning pipeline where tagged HPO terms can be used as additional input data. TermViewer is available at https://github.com/WGLab/TermViewer.
Geographical discrimination of fresh instant rice according to non‐destructive analysis of flavor profiles
Authors: Ren Xin , Li Sixuan , Zhang Min , Guan Lina , Han Wenxin
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives

The eating quality of fresh instant rice differ significantly owing to its geographical origins. However, the method of geographical discrimination is still lacking. In this study, the determination of flavor profiles and multivariate statistical analysis have been applied for discriminating the geographical origins of 18 fresh instant rice from three provinces in Northeast China.

Findings

The principal component analysis (PCA) of electronic nose (E‐nose) data could rapidly distinguish the samples from three different provinces. The solid phase microextraction‐gas chromatograph‐mass spectrometer (SPME‐GC‐MS) results of samples from different provinces were clearly distinguished in PCA and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). The orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) model showed good discriminating ability (R2 = 0.894, Q2 = 0.845, and accuracy = 1.0). Nonanal, 2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenol, 2,3‐dihydro‐benzofuran, 2‐pentylfuran, indole, pentadecane, 2‐pentadecanone, trans‐farnesol, isopropyl palmitate, and farnesyl acetone were identified as 10 marker compounds. Moreover, their good discrimination was verified in an additional nine samples.

Conclusions

The strategy of applying flavor profiles for discriminating the geographical origin of fresh instant rice has been proven to be an efficient and non‐destructive method.

Significance and Novelty

Our study is helpful to control the quality of fresh instant rice and provides a methodological reference for the geographical discrimination of foods.
Atraumatic splenic rupture in a patient treated with rivaroxaban: A case report and a narrative review
Authors: Labaki Marie‐Laure , De Kock Marc
Published: November 2022

Atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR) is a rare condition mostly associated with neoplastic, infectious, and inflammatory diseases. ASR associated with drug treatment is even rarer. In this case report, we highlight an unusual complication of the direct oral anticoagulant rivaroxaban. A 64‐year‐old male patient was admitted to the emergency department with complaints of faintness and diffuse abdominal cramps. The patient had no history of recent trauma. Clinical examination revealed hemodynamic instability with a moderate response to filling and mild abdominal discomfort on palpation. His medical history included chronic hypertension, constipation, and recent atrial flutter ablation. The patient was taking amiodarone, bisoprolol, atorvastatin, and rivaroxaban. Splenic rupture was diagnosed several hours later on contrast‐enhanced abdominal computed tomography scan. Massive blood transfusions and emergency laparotomy for splenectomy were performed. Anatomopathological analysis did not reveal any neoplastic, inflammatory, or infectious causes. The patient was successfully discharged from the intensive care unit 3 days later. Clinicians must consider the possibility of ASR as a complication of rivaroxaban in patients with abdominal tenderness and hemodynamic instability. Unfortunately, clinical presentation is not always typical of a ruptured spleen. Delayed diagnosis can be life threatening or fatal. Splenectomy via laparotomy remains the best therapeutic option in cases of splenic rupture in unstable patients on direct oral anticoagulants.
Identification of Isonitrile‐Containing Natural Products in Complex Biological Matrices through Ligation with Chlorooximes
Authors: Schäfer Rebecca J. B. , Wilson Kayla , Biedermann Maurice , Moore Bradley S. , Sieber Simon , Wennemers Helma
Published: November 2022

Isonitrile‐containing natural products have garnered attention for their manifold bioactivities but are difficult to detect and isolate due to the chemical lability of the isonitrile functional group. Here, we used the isonitrile‐chlorooxime ligation (INC) in a reactivity‐based screening (RBS) protocol for the detection and isolation of alkaloid and terpene isonitriles in the cyanobacterium Fischerella ambigua and a marine sponge of the order Bubarida, respectively. A trifunctional probe bearing a chlorooxime moiety, a UV active aromatic moiety, and a bromine label facilitated the chemoselective reaction with isonitriles, UV‐Vis spectroscopic detection, and mass spectrometric analysis. The INC‐based RBS allowed for the detection, isolation, and structural elucidation of isonitriles in microgram quantities.
Predicting progression of aortic stenosis by measuring serum calcification propensity
Authors: Kurmann Reto , Buffle Eric , Pasch Andreas , Seiler Christian , de Marchi Stefano F.
Published: November 2022

Background

The aim of this prospective, double‐blinded study in patients with aortic sclerosis was to determine whether a new calcification propensity measure in the serum could predict disease progression.

Methods

We included 129 consecutive patients with aortic sclerosis as assessed during a routine clinical echocardiographic exam. Clinical, echocardiographic, and serum laboratory parameters were collected, including a new blood test providing an overall measure of calcification propensity by monitoring the maturation time of calciprotein particles (T50 test). The echocardiographic exam was repeated after 1 year. Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of the annual increase of peak transvalvular Doppler velocity (∆vmax). Furthermore, the accuracy of the T50 test to detect patients with the most marked stenosis progression was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC)‐analysis.

Results

Mean age was 75 ± 9 years, 79% were men. The T50 was 271 ± 58 min. Overall, there was no significant stenosis progression between baseline and follow‐up (∆vmax 3.8 ± 29.8 cm/s, p = ns). The T50 test was not found to be an independent linear predictor in multivariate testing. By ROC‐analysis, however, a T50‐value ≤ 242 min was able to significantly detect a ∆vmax above the 90th percentile (∆vmax ≥ 43 cm/s, AUC = 0.67, p = .04, Sensitivity = 69%, Specificity = 70%).

Conclusions

The T50 test showed a modest but significant ability to identify a pronounced aortic stenosis progression in patients with aortic sclerosis. The test could not be established as an independent linear predictor of disease progression, possibly due to the low valvular disease burden and short follow‐up interval.
Propylene Oxidation to Acrolein over Cu/MoO3 Nanobelt Composites
Authors: Zhang Qingting , Goldbach Andreas , Shen Wenjie
Published: November 2022

Nanocomposites comprised of MoO3 nanobelts with Cu6Mo5O18 derived surface layers are very active for propylene oxidation to acrolein with selectivity approaching 60% between 350–400 °C. They offer high surface areas (∼18 m2 g−1) and yield acrolein formation rates exceeding those of unpromoted bismuth molybdates which are the basis of industrial catalysts. Their acrolein selectivity is also markedly higher than that of the Cu2+ molybdates α‐CuMoO4 and Cu3Mo2O9. XPS and TPR analyses point to the formation of a Cu+ containing molybdate on the MoO3 nanobelt surfaces which is identified as Cu6Mo5O18 by its unique Raman bands. Kinetic analyses suggest that this surface layer facilitates catalyst re‐oxidation which remains the rate‐determining step of acrolein formation over the nanocomposites up to 400 °C. Thus, the nanocomposites present a very efficient copper molybdate catalyst design for propylene oxidation to acrolein which is also less susceptible to carbon induced deactivation than bulk Cu2+ molybdates.
Nanoporous Au Formation on Au Substrates via High Voltage Electrolysis**
Authors: Artmann Evelyn , Forschner Lukas , Schüttler Konstantin M. , Al‐Shakran Mohammad , Jacob Timo , Engstfeld Albert K.
Published: November 2022

Nanoporous Au (NPG) films have promising properties, making them suitable for various applications in (electro)catalysis or (bio)sensing. Tuning the structural properties, such as the pore size or the surface‐to‐volume ratio, often requires complex starting materials such as alloys, multiple synthesis steps, lengthy preparation procedures or a combination of these factors. Here we present an approach that circumvents these difficulties, enabling for a rapid and controlled preparation of NPG films starting from a bare Au electrode. In a first approach a Au oxide film is prepared by high voltage (HV) electrolysis in a KOH solution, which is then reduced either electrochemically or in the presence of H2O2. The resulting NPG structures and their electrochemically active surface areas strongly depend on the reduction procedure, the concentration and temperature of the H2O2‐containing KOH solution, as well as the applied voltage and temperature during HV electrolysis. Secondly, the NPG film can be prepared directly by applying voltages that result in anodic contact glow discharge electrolysis (aCGDE). By carefully adjusting the corresponding parameters, the surface area of the final NPG film can be specifically controlled. The structural properties of the electrodes are investigated by means of XPS, SEM and electrochemical methods.
Insights on the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes as revealed by signature genomic classifiers in an African American population in the Washington, DC area
Authors: Mondal Tanmoy , Loffredo Christopher A. , Simhadri Jyothirmai , Nunlee‐Bland Gail , Korba Brent , Johnson Jheannelle , Cotin Sharleine , Moses Gemeyel , Quartey Ruth , Howell Charles D. , Noreen Zarish , Arif Maria , Ghosh Somiranjan
Published: November 2022

Aims

African Americans (AA) in the United States have a high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and suffer from disparities in the prevalence, mortality, and comorbidities of the disease compared to other Americans. The present study aimed to shed light on the molecular mechanisms of disease pathogenesis of T2DM among AA in the Washington, DC region.

Methods

We performed TaqMan Low Density Arrays (TLDA) on 24 genes of interest that belong to three categories: metabolic disease and disorders, cancer‐related genes, and neurobehavioural disorders genes. The 18 genes, viz. ARNT, CYP2D6, IL6, INSR, RRAD, SLC2A2 (metabolic disease and disorders), APC, BCL2, CSNK1D, MYC, SOD2, TP53 (Cancer‐related), APBA1, APBB2, APOC1, APOE, GSK3B, and NAE1 (neurobehavioural disorders), were differentially expressed in T2DM participants compared to controls.

Results

Our results suggest that factors including gender, smoking habits, and the severity or lack of control of T2DM (as indicated by HbA1c levels) were significantly associated with differential gene expression. APBA1 was significantly (p‐value <0.05) downregulated in all diabetes participants. Upregulation of APOE and CYP2D6 genes and downregulation of the INSR gene were observed in the majority of diabetes patients.

Conclusions

Tobacco smoking and gender were significantly associated with case‐control differences in expression of the APBA1 and APOE genes (connected with Alzheimer's disease) and the INSR and CYP2D6 (associated with metabolic disorders). The results highlight the need for more effective management of T2DM and for tobacco smoking cessation interventions in this community, and further research on the associations of T2DM with other disease processes, including cancer and neurobehavioral pathways.
Treatment response in recent‐onset heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: non‐ischaemic vs. ischaemic aetiology
Authors: Silverdal Jonas , Bollano Entela , Henrysson Josefin , Basic Carmen , Fu Michael , Sjöland Helen
Published: November 2022

Aims

In heart failure (HF) with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF), the prognosis appears better in non‐ischaemic than in ischaemic aetiology. Infrequent diagnostic work‐up for ischaemic heart disease (IHD) in HF is reported. In this study, we compared short‐term response to initiated guideline‐directed medical treatment (GDMT) in recent‐onset HFrEF of non‐ischaemic (non‐IHF) vs. ischaemic (IHF) aetiology and evaluated the frequency of coronary investigation.

Methods and results

Patients hospitalized with recent‐onset HFrEF [left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 40%] between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2019 were included. Treatment response was determined by use of a hierarchical clinical composite outcome classifying each patient as worsened, improved, or unchanged based on hard outcomes (mortality, heart transplantation, and HF hospitalization) and soft outcomes (± ≥10 unit change in LVEF, ± ≥30% change in N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, and ± ≥1 point change in New York Heart Association functional class) during 28 weeks of follow‐up. The associations between baseline characteristics and composite changes were analysed with multiple logistic regression. Among the 364 patients analysed, 47 were not investigated for IHD. Comparing non‐IHF (n = 203) vs. IHF (n = 114), patients were younger (mean age 61.0 vs. 69.4 years, P < 0.001) with lower mean LVEF (26% vs. 31%, P < 0.001), but with similar male predominance (70.4% vs. 75.4%, P = 0.363). For non‐IHF vs. IHF, the composite outcomes were worsened (19.1% vs. 43.9%, P < 0.001) and improved (74.2% vs. 43.9%, P < 0.001). After multivariable adjustments, IHF was associated with increased odds for worsening [odds ratio (OR) 2.94; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.51–5.74; P = 0.002] and decreased odds for improvement (OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.18–0.65; P < 0.001). In cases without previous IHD or new‐onset myocardial infarction (n = 261), a decision for coronary investigation was made in 69.0%.

Conclusions

In recent‐onset HFrEF, patients with non‐IHF responded better to GDMT than patients with IHF. Almost one‐third of patients selected for follow‐up at HF clinics were never investigated for IHD.
Advances in experimental models of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wang Siwei , Zhou Yanhua , Huang Jiangrong , Li Huilin , Pang Huidan , Niu Dandan , Li Guangyao , Wang Fei , Zhou Zushan , Liu Zhenzhen
Published: November 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by persistent articular inflammation and joint damage. RA was first described over 200 years ago; however, its etiology and pathophysiology remain insufficiently understood. The current treatment of RA is mainly empirical or based on the current understanding of etiology with limited efficacy and/or substantial side effects. Thus, the development of safer and more potent therapeutics, validated and optimized in experimental models, is urgently required. To improve the transition from bench to bedside, researchers must carefully select the appropriate experimental models as well as draw the right conclusions. Here, we summarize the establishment, pathological features, potential mechanisms, advantages, and limitations of the currently available RA models. The aim of the review is to help researchers better understand available RA models; discuss future trends in RA model development, which can help highlight new translational and human‐based avenues in RA research.
Organized activities in adolescence and pro‐environmental behaviors in adulthood: The mediating role of pro‐environmental attitudes
Authors: Davignon Lisa‐Marie , Poulin François , Denault Anne‐Sophie
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Organized activities practiced in adolescence are known to foster positive development, including active citizenship. Active citizenship encompasses a wide range of behaviors, one of them being pro‐environmental behaviors. Few studies focused on the developmental factors that may predict these behaviors in adults, despite their crucial role in counteracting the current climate crisis. However, prior research showed that attitudes were typically major predictors of behaviors. This study thus tested a model that posited participation in organized activities in adolescence as a predictor of pro‐environmental attitudes in emerging adulthood and these attitudes as a predictor of pro‐environmental behaviors in adulthood.

Methods

Three hundred twenty‐one participants (61% girls) from Quebec (Canada) completed all time points across a 17‐year period. Participants self‐reported their participation in organized activities (sports, cultural, prosocial) from ages 14 to 17, pro‐environmental attitudes, from ages 18 to 22, and pro‐environmental behaviors, at age 30.

Results

Results revealed that pro‐environmental attitudes mediate the relationship between adolescent participation in cultural activities and pro‐environmental behaviors in adulthood. Practicing sporting or prosocial activities in adolescence did not predict stronger pro‐environmental attitudes or behaviors. Interestingly, pro‐environmental attitudes consistently predicted pro‐environmental behaviors later in life.

Conclusions

These findings and prior research suggest that participation in cultural activities may provide a space to discuss, imagine change, and cultivate sensitivity towards nature. This may contribute to the development of pro‐environmental attitudes and behaviors later in life.
Chronic Systemic Infection of Mice with Leishmania infantum Leads to Increased Bone Mass
Authors: Lai Chaobo , Heinemann Jennifer , Schleicher Ulrike , Schett Georg , Bogdan Christian , Bozec Aline , Soulat Didier
Published: November 2022

Vector-borne infections of humans with the protozoan parasite Leishmania (L.) infantum can cause a systemic and potentially lethal disease termed visceral leishmaniasis. In the corresponding mouse model, an intravenous infection with L. infantum leads to the persistence of parasites in various organs, including bone marrow (BM). Considering the anatomical proximity between the BM and the cortical bone, we investigated whether a chronic infection with L. infantum affected bone homeostasis. Unexpectedly, chronic infection with L. infantum caused an increase in bone mass in mice. In vivo, an increased number of osteoblasts and osteocytes and a decreased maturation of osteoclasts characterized the phenotype. Confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy confirmed the infection of BM macrophages but also revealed the presence of parasites in osteoclasts. In vitro, mature osteoclasts took up L. infantum parasites. However, infection of osteoclast progenitors abolished their differentiation and function. In addition, secretory products of infected BM–derived macrophages inhibited the maturation of osteoclasts. Both in vitro and in vivo, infected macrophages and osteoclasts showed an enhanced expression of the anti-osteoclastogenic chemokine CCL5 (RANTES). Neutralization of CCL5 prevented the inhibition of osteoclast generation seen in the presence of culture supernatants from L. infantum-infected macrophages. Altogether, our study shows that chronic infection with Leishmania increases bone mass by inducing bone formation and impairing osteoclast differentiation and function. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Reduced Bone Mass and Increased Osteocyte Tartrate-Resistant Acid Phosphatase (TRAP) Activity, But Not Low Mineralized Matrix Around Osteocyte Lacunae, Are Restored After Recovery From Exogenous Hyperthyroidism in Male Mice
Authors: Wölfel Eva Maria , Lademann Franziska , Hemmatian Haniyeh , Blouin Stéphane , Messmer Phaedra , Hofbauer Lorenz C. , Busse Björn , Rauner Martina , Jähn-Rickert Katharina , Tsourdi Elena
Published: November 2022

Hyperthyroidism causes secondary osteoporosis through favoring bone resorption over bone formation, leading to bone loss with elevated bone fragility. Osteocytes that reside within lacunae inside the mineralized bone matrix orchestrate the process of bone remodeling and can themselves actively resorb bone upon certain stimuli. Nevertheless, the interaction between thyroid hormones and osteocytes and the impact of hyperthyroidism on osteocyte cell function are still unknown. In a preliminary study, we analyzed bones from male C57BL/6 mice with drug-induced hyperthyroidism, which led to mild osteocytic osteolysis with 1.14-fold larger osteocyte lacunae and by 108.33% higher tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity in osteocytes of hyperthyroid mice compared to euthyroid mice. To test whether hyperthyroidism-induced bone changes are reversible, we rendered male mice hyperthyroid by adding levothyroxine into their drinking water for 4 weeks, followed by a weaning period of 4 weeks with access to normal drinking water. Hyperthyroid mice displayed cortical and trabecular bone loss due to high bone turnover, which recovered with weaning. Although canalicular number and osteocyte lacunar area were similar in euthyroid, hyperthyroid and weaned mice, the number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive osteocytes was 100% lower in the weaning group compared to euthyroid mice and the osteocytic TRAP activity was eightfold higher in hyperthyroid animals. The latter, along with a 3.75% lower average mineralization around the osteocyte lacunae in trabecular bone, suggests osteocytic osteolysis activity that, however, did not result in significantly enlarged osteocyte lacunae. In conclusion, we show a recovery of bone microarchitecture and turnover after reversal of hyperthyroidism to a euthyroid state. In contrast, osteocytic osteolysis was initiated in hyperthyroidism, but its effects were not reversed after 4 weeks of weaning. Due to the vast number of osteocytes in bone, we speculate that even minor individual cell functions might contribute to altered bone quality and mineral homeostasis in the setting of hyperthyroidism-induced bone disease. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Synergistic degradation performance of UV/TiO2 photocatalysis and biotrickling filtration inoculated with Aspergillus sp. S1 for gaseous m‐xylene
Authors: Du Qingping , Zhong Zuanjia , Zhang Ting , Xu Yanbin , Zhang Guoqing , Wu Shangquan , Xu Jiaxin
Published: November 2022

Background

Biotricking filtration (BTF) based on absorption and biodegradation of waste gas by microorganisms in a biofilm can be used to degrade with difficulty hydrophobic volatile pollutants. Photocatalysis is a promising technology for the abatement of gaseous contaminants because of its nonselective oxidation of volatile organic compounds; however, photocatalysis technology has the limitations of high energy consumption and low mineralization efficiency. This study, therefore, aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of UV/TiO2 photocatalysis (PCO) pretreatment and BTF in treating gaseous m‐xylene.

Results

BTF incubated with a mold, Aspergillus sp. S1, was acclimated with m‐xylene as the sole carbon source. A combined system of PCO with BTF was developed to remove gaseous m‐xylene. The results showed that the startup period was shortened by 3 days in the PCO‐BTF combined system compared to that with BTF alone. The removal efficiency reached 73% and 91% for the BTF and PCO‐BTF systems respectively when the empty bed residence time was extended to 90 s. In addition, PCO‐BTF could withstand transient shock loading of m‐xylene of 5000 mg m−3 and gradually restore its decontamination performance.

Conclusions

PCO pretreatment was effective in the enhancement of the removal capacity of BTF for m‐xylene. The PCO‐BTF system proposed in this study provides an attractive alternative to abate hydrophobic volatile pollutants. The integration of PCO essentially prompted the capability of Aspergillus sp. S1 in the BTF unit, which paves the way for the treatment of gaseous waste at an industrial scale. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The next 10 years of behavioural genomic research
Authors: Plomin Robert
Published: November 2022

Background

The explosion caused by the fusion of quantitative genetics and molecular genetics will transform behavioural genetic research in child and adolescent psychology and psychiatry.

Methods

Although the fallout has not yet settled, the goal of this paper is to predict the next 10 years of research in what could be called behavioural genomics.

Results

I focus on three research directions: the genetic architecture of psychopathology, causal modelling of gene‐environment interplay, and the use of DNA as an early warning system.

Conclusion

Eventually, whole‐genome sequencing will be available for all newborns, which means that behavioural genomics could potentially be applied ubiquitously in research and clinical practice.
Reducing unnecessary routine laboratory testing for noncritically ill patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Shin Dawi , Krouss Mona , Alaiev Daniel , Mestari Nessreen , Talledo Joseph , Zaurova Milana , Chandra Komal , Manchego Peter A. , Tsega Surafel , Uppal Amit , Faillace Robert T. , Moskovitz Joshua , Ford Kenra , Bouton Michael , Cho Hyung J.
Published: November 2022

Background

Reducing unnecessary routine laboratory testing is a Choosing Wisely® recommendation, and new areas of overuse were noted during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Objective

To reduce unnecessary repetitive routine laboratory testing for patients with COVID‐19 during the pandemic across a large safety net health system.

Designs, Settings and Participants

This quality improvement initiative was initiated by the System High‐Value Care Council at New York City Health + Hospitals (H + H), the largest public healthcare system in the United States consisting of 11 acute care hospitals.

Intervention

four overused laboratory tests in noncritically ill hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 were identified: C‐reactive protein (CRP), ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and procalcitonin. A two‐pronged electronic health record intervention was implemented consisting of (1) nonintrusive, informational nudge statements placed on selected order sets, and (2) a forcing function of one consecutive day limit on ordering.

Main Outcome and Measures

The average of excess tests per encounter days (ETPED) for each of four target laboratory testing only in patients with COVID‐19.

Objective

Interdisciplinary System High‐Value Care Council identified four overused laboratory tests (inflammatory markers) in noncritically ill hospitalized patients with COVID‐19: C‐reactive protein (CRP), ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and procalcitonin. Within an 11‐hospital safety net health system, a two‐pronged electronic health record intervention was implemented consisting of (1) nonintrusive, informational nudge statements placed on selected order sets, and (2) a forcing function of one consecutive day limit on ordering. The preintervention period (March 16, 2020 to January 24, 2021) was compared to the postintervention period (January 25, 2021 to March 22, 2022).

Results

Time series linear regression showed decreases in CRP (−17.9%, p < .05), ferritin (−37.6%, p < .001), and LDH (−30.1%, p < .001). Slope differences were significant (CRP, ferritin, and LDH p < 0.001; procalcitonin p < 0.05). Decreases were observed across weekly averages: CRP (−19%, p < .01), ferritin (−37.9%, p < .001), LDH (−28.7%, p < .001), and procalcitonin (−18.4%, p < .05).

Conclusion

This intervention was associated with reduced routine inflammatory marker testing in non‐intensive care unit COVID‐19 hospitalized patients across 11 hospitals. Variation was high among individual hospitals.
Metformin use and the risks of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Yen Fu‐Shun , Wei James Cheng‐Chung , Yip Hei‐Tung , Hsu Chih‐Cheng , Hwu Chii‐Min
Published: November 2022

Herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia cause substantial pain in patients. Persons with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are prone to zoster infection and postherpetic neuralgia due to compromised immunity. We conducted this study to evaluate the risks of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia between metformin users and nonusers. Propensity score matching was utilized to select 47 472 pairs of metformin users and nonusers from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2017. The Cox proportional hazards models were used for comparing the risks of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia between metformin users and nonusers in patients with T2D. Compared with no‐use of metformin, the adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) for metformin use in herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia were 0.70 (0.66, 0.75) and 0.510 (0.39, 0.68), respectively. A higher cumulative dose of metformin had further lower risks of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia than metformin no‐use. This nationwide cohort study demonstrated that metformin use was associated with a significantly lower risk of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia than metformin no‐use. Moreover, a higher cumulative dose of metformin was associated with further lower risks of these outcomes.
Effectiveness of SARS‐CoV‐2‐inactivated vaccine and the correlation to neutralizing antibodies: A test‐negative case–control study
Authors: Liu Can , Zhang Jiawei , Zeng Yongbin , Huang Chun , Chen Falin , Cao Yingping , Wu Siying , Wei Donghong , Lin Zhong , Zhang Yali , Zhang Ling , Teng Jing , Li Zishun , Hong Guolin , Yang Tianci , Ye Huiming , Tu Haijian , Xiao Yupeng , Huang Lishan , Lin Caorui , Chen Tianbin , Deng Yanqin , Ou Qishui , Li Jinming
Published: November 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 breakthrough infection in highly vaccinated populations raises study on the effectiveness for inactivated vaccine, including effectiveness of the vaccine dose, the continuance of effectiveness, the effectiveness against severe/critical coronavirus disease 2019 and against secondary attacks. A population of 10 870 close contacts were investigated in a Delta variant's epidemic. The effectiveness of vaccination was estimated in a test‐negative case–control study. In addition, serum was used to detect neutralizing antibodies, to explore their correlation to effectiveness. The vaccine effectiveness (VE) values were estimated for populations aged 12 years or older. The overall adjusted VE was 56.2% and a two‐dose vaccine was more effective than a one‐dose vaccine (56.7% vs. 43.8%). In addition, the population that got the second dose vaccine within 2 months showed higher VE than the population vaccinated for longer than 2 months (61.5% vs. 52.3%). Among the population who vaccinated 2 doses or within 2 months, a higher level of neutralizing antibodies was observed. For infected cases, vaccinated populations showed lower rates of transmission (2.63% vs. 4.36%). Further, those vaccinated cases, who were not found causing transmission, had a higher level of antibodies. The study provided a full view of the effectiveness of inactivated vaccines in a real‐world setting. The time‐related VE against infection and lower transmission of breakthrough vaccinated cases were observed, which may indicate that a necessity of a booster vaccine to maintain the effectiveness and high level of neutralizing antibody.
Resolution of inter/intraspecies variation in Weissella group requires multigene analysis and functional characterization
Authors: Joglekar Amruta , Nimonkar Yogesh , Bajaj Abhay , Prakash Om
Published: November 2022

Weissella confusa and Weissella cibaria strains isolated from the human‐ gut are considered as potential probiotics, but remain under‐explored owing to their ambiguous taxonomic assignment. The present study assesses the taxonomic resolution of 11 strains belonging to W. confusa and W. cibaria species and highlights the inter‐ and intraspecies variations using an array of phenetic and molecular methods. Remarkable genomic variability among the strains was observed by phylogenetic analysis using concatenated housekeeping genes (pheS, gyrB, and dnaA) along with 16S rRNA gene sequence, suggesting intraspecies variations; which is also supported by the phenetic data. Analysis showed that 16S rRNA gene sequence alone could not resolve the variation, and among the tested marker genes, signals from pheS gene provide better taxonomic resolution. The biochemical and antibiotic susceptibility tests also showed considerable variations among the isolates. Additionally, 'quick' identification using mass spectroscopy‐based matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight mass spectra was accurate up to genus only, and not species level, for the Weissella group. The study highlights need for inclusion of functional, phenetic, and multigene phylogenetic analysis in addition to 16S rRNA gene‐based identification for the Weissella group, to provide better resolution in taxonomic assignments, which is often a prerequisite for the selection of potential strains with biotechnological applications.
Habitat selection and space use overlap between feral horses, pronghorn, and greater sage‐grouse in cold arid steppe
Authors: Hennig Jacob D. , Scasta J. D. , Pratt Aaron C. , Wanner Caitlyn P. , Beck Jeffrey L.
Published: November 2022

Populations of feral horses (Equus ferus caballus) in the western United States have increased during the past decade, consequently affecting co‐occurring wildlife habitat. Feral horses may influence 2 native wildlife species, greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus; sage‐grouse) and pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) through mechanisms of habitat alteration and competition. Wyoming, USA, contains the largest populations of pronghorn and sage‐grouse of any state and also has the highest degree of range overlap between feral horses and these species. Consequently, the effects that horses may have on pronghorn and sage‐grouse populations in Wyoming have implications at local, state, and population‐wide levels. Managers need information concerning habitat selection and space use overlap among these species to develop appropriate management strategies; yet this information is absent for most feral horse management areas. To address this knowledge need, we attached global positioning system (GPS) transmitters to horses, pronghorn, and sage‐grouse within the greater Bureau of Land Management–Adobe Town Herd Management Area in southern Wyoming and northern Colorado, USA, between 2017 and 2021 to evaluate habitat selection and space use of all species during 3 biologically relevant seasons: spring (Apr–Jun; sage‐grouse breeding, nesting, and early‐brood rearing; pronghorn late gestation and early parturition), summer (Jul–Oct; sage‐grouse summer and late‐brood rearing; pronghorn late parturition and breeding), and winter (Nov–Mar; non‐breeding season). Feral horses selected flatter slopes and shorter mean shrub height across all seasons and were closer to water in spring and summer. Pronghorn habitat selection was similar to horses, but they also avoided oil and gas well pads year‐round. During spring, sage‐grouse selected greater herbaceous cover, flatter slopes, and areas farther from well pads. In summer, sage‐grouse selected greater mean shrub height, flatter slopes, and were closer to water. In winter, sage‐grouse selected flatter slopes and areas with greater vegetation production during the preceding summer. Our results indicate strong year‐round overlap in space use between horses and pronghorn, whereas overlap between horses and sage‐grouse is greatest during the summer in this region. Consequently, managers should recognize the potential for horses to influence habitat quality of pronghorn and sage‐grouse in the region.