bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluations of Anticancer Effects of Combinations of Cisplatin and Tirucallane‐Type Triterpenes Isolated from Amphipterygium adstringens (Schltdl).
Authors: Díaz‐Sánchez Lidia , Zentella‐Dehesa Alejandro , Castro‐Torres Víctor Alberto , Silva‐Jiménez Noemi , Jacobo‐Herrera Nadia Judith , Martínez‐Vázquez Mariano
Published: September 2023

The cytotoxic activity of combinations of masticadienonic (AMD) or 3αOH‐hydroxy‐masticadienonic (3αOH‐AMD) acids with cisplatin (CDDP) was evaluated against PC3 prostate and HCT116 colon cancer cell lines. Combinations A (half the IC50 value), B (IC50 value), and C (twice the IC50 value) were tested at a 1 : 1 ratio. All AMD plus CDDP combinations demonstrated increased cytotoxic effect, as determined by the sulforhodamine B test, in both cell types. The best combination was B, which showed 93 % and 91 % inhibition of the proliferation of PC3 and HCT116 cells, respectively. It also increased apoptosis in the PC3 cell lines, as evaluated by flow cytometry. However, in vivo tests showed no additional activity from the AMD plus CDDP combinations. These results showed that the increased cytotoxic activity of the combinations in vitro did not reflect in vivo tests. All combinations of 3αOH‐AMD plus CDDP exerted antagonistic effects in both cell types.
Alcohol‐Induced Conformation Changes and Thermodynamic Signatures in the Binding of Polyphenols to Proline‐Rich Salivary Proteins
Authors: Jahmidi‐Azizi Nisrine , Oliva Rosario , Winter Roland
Published: September 2023

The first contact of polyphenols (tannins) with the human body occurs in the mouth, where they are known to interact with proline‐rich proteins (PRPs). These interactions are important at a sensory level, especially for the development of astringency, but affect also various other biochemical processes. Employing thermodynamic measurements, fluorescence and CD spectroscopy, we investigated the binding process of the prototypical polyphenol ellagic acid (EA) to different IB‐PRPs and BSA, also in the presence of ethanol, which is known to influence tannin–protein interactions. Binding of EA to BSA and the small peptide IB7‐14 is weak, but very strong to IB9‐37. The differences in binding strength and stoichiometry are due to differences in the binding motifs, which also lead to differences in the thermodynamic signatures of the binding process. EA binding to BSA is enthalpy‐driven, whereas binding to both IB7‐14 and IB9‐37 is entropy‐driven. The presence of 10 vol.% EtOH, as present in wines, increases the binding constant of EA with BSA and IB7‐14 drastically, but not that with IB9‐37; however, it changes the binding stoichiometry. These differences can be attributed to the effect of EtOH on the conformation dynamics of the proteins and to changes in hydration properties in alcoholic solution.
Why kiss‐and‐hop explains that tau does not stabilize microtubules and does not interfere with axonal transport (at physiological conditions)
Authors: Bakota Lidia , Brandt Roland
Published: September 2023

Tau is a microtubule‐associated protein that is enriched in the axonal process of neurons. Post‐translational modifications of tau have been implicated in the development of tauopathies characterized by defects in axonal transport, neuronal atrophy, and microtubule disassembly. Although tau is almost quantitatively bound to microtubules under physiological conditions, it does not significantly affect axonal transport. Furthermore, acute or chronic tau deficiency does not result in significant destabilization of neuronal microtubules, challenging the classical view that disease‐related tau modifications directly cause axonal microtubule collapse. Here, we discuss how the rapid interaction kinetics of the tau‐microtubule interaction, which we previously termed the kiss‐and‐hop interaction, explains why tau does not affect microtubule‐dependent axonal transport but still allows tau to modulate microtubule polymerization. In contrast, tau modifications that slow down the kinetics of the tau‐microtubule interaction and increase the residence time of tau at a microtubule interaction site can disrupt axonal transport and cause dendritic atrophy. We discuss the consequences of such a gain‐of‐toxicity mechanism in terms of the development of disease‐modulating drugs that target the tau protein.
The site dynamics of Corrigiola litoralis (Strapwort) on the Elbe River in Czechia: A combined hydrological and hydrodynamic approach
Authors: Havlíček Vojtěch , Heřmanovský Martin , Bureš Luděk , Martínková Marta , Čuda Jan , Hanel Martin
Published: September 2023

This study aims to identify suitable sites for Corrigiola litoralis (Strapwort) using hydrological and hydrodynamic models and geographical information techniques. It was conducted on the lower Elbe River in Czechia for 1981–2020 at six research sites. Hydrological models BILAN, GR4J and TUW were used together with HEC‐RAS hydrodynamic model. In addition to hydrological model simulations, we also used observed flows. We addressed identifying sites suitable for Corrigiola litoralis by introducing conditions reflecting the ecological requirements of this species. We compared the results with the findings recorded in the literature. The accuracy of this approach was 0.750 when the source of hydrological data was the observations, and the accuracy was, on average, 0.776 when using model simulations. The determined size of a suitable area had a significant variance. The closest to the size determined from the observed data were results based on the simulation of the TUW model. The GR4J model and BILAN model overestimated the size of suitable areas. The presented approach proved to be reasonable for modelling spatio‐temporal dynamics of sites suitable for Corrigiola litoralis.
Professional social connections are associated with student science identity in a research‐based field biology course
Authors: Esparza David , Smith Michelle K.
Published: September 2023

Undergraduate field courses provide students with valuable opportunities to learn in and from the natural environment. Prior research shows that field courses can improve students' cognitive and affective outcomes and encourage them to engage in social interaction with their classmates and professors. Despite frequent documentation of the ability for field courses to promote social relationships, no prior studies have characterized student interaction in this context or its influence on student outcomes. To better understand student interactions, we used social network analysis to characterize how and with whom students formed communities in a semester‐long field course with an integrated research project. We found that students form small, tightly connected communities composed of professional and personal contacts with whom they maintain contact throughout the semester. We asked students what they discussed when talking about their research project with their professional and personal contacts. We found that students explained their research to members of their professional and personal communities. Discussions with professional communities largely focused on guidance related to the technical aspects of their research projects and personal communities focused on personal support. We also examined student research project performance and science identity. Bootstrapped multivariate linear modeling indicated that neither student demographic factors nor the degree to which a student discussed their research with their personal or professional communities influenced their research project grades. However, the strength of the professional but not personal connections was associated with science identity. Based on these findings, we offer evidence‐based recommendations to field course instructors on how best to structure student interaction.
Synthesis and Characterization of Platinum(IV) Complexes Containing 1‐Phenyl‐1H‐pyrazole and α‐Diimine Ligands
Authors: Kamecka Anna , Kapturkiewicz Andrzej , Wójcik Patryk , Suwińska Kinga , Masternak Joanna
Published: September 2023

The paper deals with the synthesis of a series of cationic [Pt(ppz)2(N^N)]2+ complexes containing deprotonated 1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazole as cyclometallating (C^N) ligands and α‐diimines (N^N) in the form of water‐soluble salts with OTf− (trifluoromethanesulfonate) counter ions. These complexes were obtained from cis‐[Pt(ppz)2Cl2] through chloride ligands substitution with α‐diimines. The complexes were identified by means of NMR spectroscopy and their molecular structures were confirmed by X‐ray crystallography. The photophysical properties of these complexes were studied in detail. These complexes showed strong luminescence in MeOH/EtOH 1 : 1 glasses at 77 K but were almost non‐emitting in MeCN solutions at room temperature. Their emission properties were compared to analogues IrIII complexes.
Enantiospecific Total Synthesis of (−)‐Hyacinthacine A1 and (+)‐Hyacinthacine A1 and Their Homologues Using Nitrogen Substituted Donor–Acceptor Cyclopropane
Authors: Gharpure Santosh J. , Patel Raj K.
Published: September 2023

A concise and efficient enantiospecific total synthesis of (−)‐hyacinthacine A1 and (+)‐hyacinthacine A1 was achieved from commercially available starting material L‐pyroglutamic acid and D‐glutamic acid, respectively. For the synthesis of this trihydroxylated pyrrolizidine ring, we employed the nitrogen‐substituted donor‐acceptor cyclopropane as a key intermediate. The synthetic approach relies on two crucial steps, highly stereo‐ and regioselective intramolecular cyclopropanation with Rh2(OAc)4 and regioselective ring opening of a nitrogen‐substituted donor‐acceptor cyclopropane.
Ti3C2Tx–Nb2Mo3O14 Composite as Novel Anode to Realize High Power Density Combined with High Stability in a Hybrid Lithium‐Ion Capacitor
Authors: Pawar Meenakshi D. , Thripuranthaka Marulasiddappa , Patrike Apurva , Deshmukh Ashvini B. , Chaturvedi Vikash , Krishnan Arun , Shivade Rajkiran , Shelke Manjusha V.
Published: September 2023

Lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs), with their higher energy density at high power capability, stand out as the future generation of energy‐storage devices. Herein, the nanocomposite of Ti3C2Tx MXene with Nb2Mo3O14 is prepared by a one‐step hydrothermal method and studied as an electrode material for LIC. The as‐fabricated composite MXene niobium molybdenum oxide (MXNMO) achieves a high reversible capacity of 205 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 current density with outstanding cyclability. Further, asymmetric LIC full‐cell device composed of MXNMO anode with supercapacitor grade activated carbon as a cathode delivers an energy density of 37.8 Wh kg−1 (0.25 A g−1) and a higher power density of 4244 W kg−1 (5 A g−1) along with the excellent durability showing 85% capacitance retention over 4000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1.
Transnasal negative pressure therapy for accelerating healing and improving the prognosis of pharyngocutaneous fistula
Authors: Hu Zhangwei , Guo Xueqin , Chen Lin , Lei Wenbin
Published: September 2023

Background

Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is one of the most common complications of total laryngectomy. This study is to investigate the efficacy of a novel platform called transnasal negative pressure therapy (TNPT) in the management of PCF.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 47 patients who underwent total laryngectomy between April 2015 and February 2021 and developed PCF in our hospital. We focused on the healing rate, dressing change frequency, and healing time between the TNPT and non‐TNPT groups. The 2 years overall survival (OS) was compared through the log‐rank test.

Results

There were 18 patients in the TNPT group and 29 in the non‐TNPT group. There was no significant between‐group difference in the healing rate (chi‐square test). However, the frequency of dressing changes was significantly lower (p < 0.001) and the healing time was significantly shorter (p = 0.0194) in the TNPT group than in the non‐TNPT group. The 2‐year OS rate was significantly higher in the TNPT group (p = 0.0473, log‐rank test).

Conclusion

TNPT promoted wound healing after surgery for PCF and improved the 2‐year OS rate. This tool is worthy of clinical application and promotion.
Identification of pre‐diagnostic lipid sets associated with liver cancer risk using untargeted lipidomics and chemical set analysis: A nested case‐control study within the ATBC cohort
Authors: Barupal Dinesh K. , Ramos Mark L. , Florio Andrea A. , Wheeler William A. , Weinstein Stephanie J. , Albanes Demetrius , Fiehn Oliver , Graubard Barry I. , Petrick Jessica L. , McGlynn Katherine A.
Published: September 2023

In pre‐disposed individuals, a reprogramming of the hepatic lipid metabolism may support liver cancer initiation. We conducted a high‐resolution mass spectrometry based untargeted lipidomics analysis of pre‐diagnostic serum samples from a nested case‐control study (219 liver cancer cases and 219 controls) within the Alpha‐Tocopherol, Beta‐Carotene Cancer Prevention (ATBC) Study. Out of 462 annotated lipids, 158 (34.2%) were associated with liver cancer risk in a conditional logistic regression analysis at a false discovery rate (FDR) <0.05. A chemical set enrichment analysis (ChemRICH) and co‐regulatory set analysis suggested that 22/28 lipid classes and 47/83 correlation modules were significantly associated with liver cancer risk (FDR <0.05). Strong positive associations were observed for monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), triacylglycerols (TAGs) and phosphatidylcholines (PCs) having MUFA acyl chains. Negative associations were observed for sphingolipids (ceramides and sphingomyelins), lysophosphatidylcholines, cholesterol esters and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) containing TAGs and PCs. Stearoyl‐CoA desaturase enzyme 1 (SCD1), a rate limiting enzyme in fatty acid metabolism and ceramidases seems to be critical in this reprogramming. In conclusion, our study reports pre‐diagnostic lipid changes that provide novel insights into hepatic lipid metabolism reprogramming may contribute to a pro‐cell growth and anti‐apoptotic tissue environment and, in turn, support liver cancer initiation.
Cellulose nanofibrils derived from pulp as a high performance separator for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Cho Hyeon Woo , Kim Ju Won , Mugobera Sharon , Park Roseong , Jung Jihyuk , Ko Jang Myoun , Lee Kwang Se
Published: September 2023

Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) from hardwood bleached kraft pulp (HwBKP) are produced via enzymatic, chemical, and mechanical treatment. A nanoporous structured CNF‐based separator is produced, and the electrochemical performance, morphology, and thermal stability analyses are performed in comparison to the commercial polyethylene separator. The results obtained show that the electrolyte‐philic CNF separator has capacity retention of 88.6% over 200 cycles and very good ionic conductivity and wettability results due to its high hydrophilic nature. At 140°C, the CNF separator was resilient to heat and remained intact. The CNF separator reflects high thermal resistance and good electrolyte uptake properties that are among the mandatory requirements of a separator hence, a promising contender for use in lithium‐ion batteries.
Real, potentially real, and hypothetical monetary rewards in probability discounting
Authors: Okouchi Hiroto
Published: September 2023

Although hypothetical rewards have been used almost exclusively in human discounting studies, investigations of their validity are limited. The present experiment compared the discounting of monetary reward value by probability across conditions in which the rewards were real, potentially real, and hypothetical. Twenty‐four undergraduates choose between an uncertain large reward and a certain small reward 60 times (trials). In the real and hypothetical reward conditions, the participants made choices with real and hypothetical money, respectively, in every trial. In the potentially real condition, they did so with real money in randomly selected three of the 60 trials and with hypothetical money in the remainder. The log10‐transformed h values of a hyperbolic probability‐discount function and the values of the area under the curve with an ordinal transformation of odds against were higher and lower, respectively, in the potentially real and in the hypothetical reward conditions than in the real reward condition, demonstrating that the probability discounting of hypothetical monetary rewards was larger than that of real rewards. These results suggest that future studies are required to identify why the hypothetical reward procedure overestimates the discounting rates of real rewards.
Sickle cell anemia and pregnancy: Profile of hemodynamic changes in sickle cell pregnant women in Kinshasa
Authors: Mikobi Tite Minga , Kamuanya Nelly Ciombo , Mikobi Emmanuelle Ketsia Bokashanga , Kalela Thérèse Ilunga , Akilimali Pierre Zalagile , Lukusa Prosper Tshilobo
Published: September 2023

Pregnancy is accompanied by hormonal changes. These relate mainly to progesterone and placenate growth factor. Hemodynamic changes are also observed. in a sickle cell pregnant woman, all these changes have a direct effect on hypoxia. This is responsible for the polymerization of HbS. The latter causes the sickling of sickle red blood cells. sickling of red blood cells is responsible for hemolysis and vasoocclusion, two major acute manifestations during pregnancy in a sickle cell patient.
Quantitative Assessment of Peripheral Oxidative Metabolism With a New Dynamic 1H MRI Technique: A Pilot Study in People With and Without Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wahidi Ryan , Zhang Yi , Li Ran , Xu Jiadi , Zayed Mohamed A. , Hastings Mary K. , Zheng Jie
Published: September 2023

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is linked to impaired mitochondrial function. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a gadolinium‐contrast‐free 1H method to assess mitochondrial function by measuring low‐concentration metabolites. A CEST MRI‐based technique may serve as a non‐invasive proxy for assessing mitochondrial health.

Hypothesis

A 1H CEST MRI technique may detect significant differences in in vivo skeletal muscle phosphocreatine (SMPCr) kinetics between healthy volunteers and T2DM patients undergoing standardized isometric exercise.

Study Type

Cross‐sectional study.

Subjects

Seven subjects without T2DM (T2DM−) and seven age, sex, and BMI‐matched subjects with T2DM (T2DM+).

Field Strength/Sequence

Single‐shot rapid acquisition with refocusing echoes (RARE) and single‐shot gradient‐echo sequences, 3 T.

Assessment

Subjects underwent a rest‐exercise‐recovery imaging protocol to dynamically acquire SMPCr maps in calf musculature. Medial gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus SMPCr concentrations were plotted over time, and SMPCr recovery time, , was determined. Mitochondrial function index was calculated as the ratio of resting SMPCr to . Participants underwent a second exercise protocol for imaging of skeletal muscle blood flow (SMBF), and its association with SMPCr was assessed.

Statistical Tests

Unpaired t‐tests and Pearson correlation coefficient. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

SMPCr concentrations in MG and soleus displayed expected declines during exercise and returns to baseline during recovery. was significantly longer in the T2DM+ cohort (MG 83.5 ± 25.8 vs. 54.0 ± 21.1, soleus 90.5 ± 18.9 vs. 51.2 ± 14.5). The mitochondrial function index in the soleus was significantly lower in the T2DM+ cohort (0.33 ± 0.08 vs. 0.66 ± 0.19). SMBF was moderately correlated with the SMPCr in T2DM−; this correlation was not significant in T2DM+ (r = −0.23, P = 0.269).

Conclusion

The CEST MRI method is feasible for quantifying SMPCr in peripheral muscle tissue. T2DM+ individuals had significantly lower oxidative capacities than T2DM− individuals. In T2DM, skeletal muscle metabolism appeared to be decoupled from perfusion.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Hydroclimate variations in the past 1000 years over Eastern China
Authors: Hao Zhixin , Zheng Jingyun , Liu Yang , Ge Quansheng
Published: September 2023

Hydroclimate variations over eastern China are affected by the Asian monsoon, exhibiting great variability and frequent extreme events occurrence. However, the driving mechanisms of their spatial and temporal variabilities are not fully understood due to the short period of available climate observation data. Here we used interpolated dry/wet grades dataset derived from Chinese historical documents and method of regional division to reconstruct a new annual hydroclimatic variation dataset dating back 1000 years, including nine regions of eastern China. This dataset reveals the spatial coverage and trend of long‐lasting extreme drought and flood events, and discloses the spatial patterns and similarities of interannual (2–7‐year) and interdecadal (15–35‐year) hydroclimate variations under the different temperature backgrounds of the Medieval Climate Anomaly (MCA), Little Ice Age (LIA) and Current Warm Period. Although no obvious drying or wetting trends were detected in the past 1000 years, the frequencies of extreme flood and drought events during the two warm periods of 960–1300 and 1901–2000 were higher than those during the cold period of 1301–1900. There are 17 long‐lasting and even severe than 1637–1641 large spatial scale extreme drought events during the past 1000 years. The observed spatial dipole pattern of flooding in the south and drought in the north, or the opposite pattern, was rare during the historical period. However, it was the second leading mode explaining the low variances in the principal component analysis for 2–7‐year hydroclimatic variations, which were not related to temperature change. Moreover, the stability of the teleconnection between the hydroclimate over eastern China and the climatic modes of Pacific Decadal Oscillation and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation was further discussed.
A new extinct species of Scybalophagus dung beetle supports the collateral extinction hypothesis at the Chilean South American Pleistocene–Holocene boundary
Authors: Tello Francisco , Pino Mario , Vaz‐De‐Mello Fernando , Silva Fernando A. B.
Published: September 2023

The extinction of megaherbivores (weighing over 1000 kg) at the Pleistocene–Holocene boundary caused drastic changes at multiple trophic levels. However, few examples of Pleistocene insect extinction have been reported in the literature. Here we describe a new extinct dung beetle species, Scybalophagus brellenthinae sp. nov., based on fossil remains recorded from an Upper Pleistocene sequence from Chilean Northern Patagonia (Osorno city: 40°34′S, 73°07′W) dated between ~16 400 and ~12 800 cal a bp. S. brellenthinae is shown to be a species of the genus Scybalophagus based on the following morphological characters: a bidentate clypeus, teeth separated by U‐shaped emargination; protibiae with three major denticles on the external margin, separated by minor denticles, present at the base of the protibiae; and mesotibiae with prominent transverse carinae. Additionally, this new species can be clearly distinguished from extant species of the genus by its shiny green color. Extant Scybalophagus are true dung beetle species that depend on fresh mammal dung for their nest development. Therefore, we suggest that the mass extinction of the megaherbivores during a period of drastic environmental change at the Pleistocene–Holocene boundary in southern South America induced the collateral extinction of S. brellenthinae. Thus, this study provides new insights into dung beetle diversity of the past.
Intra‐cochlear Flushing Reduces Tissue Response to Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Razmovski Tayla , Brody Kate M. , Stathopoulos Dimitra , Zhang Dongcheng , Cho Ellie , Hampson Amy J. , Collins Aaron , Bester Christofer , O'Leary Stephen
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Intraoperative trauma leading to bleeding during cochlear implantation negatively impacts residual hearing of cochlear implant recipients. There are no clinical protocols for the removal of blood during implantation, to reduce the consequential effects such as inflammation and fibrosis which adversely affect cochlear health and residual hearing. This preclinical study investigated the implementation of an intra‐cochlear flushing protocol for the removal of blood.

Methods

Three groups of guinea pigs were studied for 28 days after cochlear implantation; cochlear implant‐only (control group); cochlear implant with blood injected into the cochlea (blood group); and cochlear implant, blood injection, and flushing of the blood from the cochlea intraoperatively (flush group). Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) in addition to tissue response volumes were analyzed and compared between groups.

Results

After implantation, the blood group exhibited the highest ABR thresholds when compared to the control and flush group, particularly in the high frequencies. On the final day, the control and blood group had similar ABR thresholds across all frequencies tested, whereas the flush group had the lowest thresholds, significantly lower at 24 kHz than the blood and control group. Analysis of the tissue response showed the flush group had significantly lower tissue responses in the basal half of the array when compared with the blood and control group.

Conclusions

Flushing intra‐cochlear blood during surgery resulted in better auditory function and reduced subsequent fibrosis in the basal region of the cochlea. This finding prompts the implementation of a flushing protocol in clinical cochlear implantation.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:1410–1416, 2024
Original Synthesis of Ethylene‐Acrylic Acid (ester) Copolymers Derivatives from 5‐substituted Cyclooctenes with A Controllable Way Via Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization
Authors: Zhong Huilin , Zhou Fuqiang , Zhang Feng , Xu Jiajia , Peng Deqian , He Xuelian
Published: September 2023

High‐value grades of ethylene‐acrylic acid (EAA) and ethylene‐acrylic ester copolymers have been producing produced from ethylene, acrylic acid (AA), and the alcohol derivative via radical reaction in autoclave reactor at a temperature of 150‒230 °C and pressure of 150–300 MPa. In this paper, EAA and its ester derivatives are originally created from the 5‐substituted cyclooctenes (COE) with side chains of carboxylic acid or ester derivatives by ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) at normal temperature and pressure. Especially, the controllable insertion of side chain is effectively achieved by altering the molar ratio of COE and 5‐substituted COE. Furthermore, the polar carboxyl groups (ester groups) have a detrimental effect on the order assigns of the linear backbone and thus hindered crystallization, indicating relatively lower crystallizing and melting temperature with an increase in the content of side chain. As the amounts of polar groups raised, the stiffness of chain segments enhanced, thereby leading to an elevation in the copolymer's energy storage modulus (E') and glass transition temperature (Tg). Moreover, the Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa (FWO) technique is employed to characterize and fit the non‐isothermal crosslinking kinetics of the ethylene‐acrylic ester derivatives, and the crosslinking activation energy is determined to lie between 97 and 140 kJ mol−1.
Diffusion NMR of Poly(acrylic acid) Solutions: Molar Mass Scaling and pH‐Induced Conformational Variation
Authors: Lenoch Arthur , Schumacher Marcel , Gröschel André H. , Cramer Cornelia , Schönhoff Monika
Published: September 2023

Self‐diffusion of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) in dilute solution is studied by pulsed field gradient (PFG)‐NMR, also known as DOSY, and correlated to molecular weight with scaling laws at varying pH. Fitting a diffusion coefficient distribution model to PFG‐NMR data, the molecular weight polydispersity of commercial PAA samples is quantified. Due to good agreement with GPC data, diffusion measurements offer a viable alternative to estimate chain length properties with minimal sample preparation. Similar results are achieved by dynamic light scattering (DLS), however, with lower precision. The evolution of the scaling exponent with increasing pH indicates a transition from a globular state in highly acidic conditions (ν = 0.46) to a partially stretched conformation with a maximum at pH 5 (ν = 0.67). At higher pH, counterion screening counteracts chain expansion, while an unexpected increase in the width of the diffusion coefficient distribution occurs. A universal scaling law of the diffusivity applies for a chain length range of 25 ≤ N ≤ 1585, albeit with distinctly different scaling exponents. While opposing arguments are brought forward in recent literature concerning the pH‐dependence of short‐chain conformations, analysis supports the view that chain conformation is significantly affected by pH, even for short chains.
A systematic review on political ideology and persuasion
Authors: Cakanlar Aylin , White Katherine
Published: September 2023

Increasing political polarization in the United States and worldwide necessitates understanding of the key factors that can help shift different political groups' attitudes and behaviors regarding vital issues. In this article, we provide a systematic review of the research literature on political ideology and persuasion. By organizing the literature at three levels (self, social, and system), we propose an organizing framework for thinking about various persuasive factors that can encourage attitude and behavior change among conservatives and liberals. Our review highlights that considering the three levels at which persuasion operates can guide future theory and research, as well as provide practical tools for marketers and policymakers wishing to decrease ideological extremity and foster attitude and behavior change across both sides of the political divide.
C3S Energy: A climate service for the provision of power supply and demand indicators for Europe based on the ERA5 reanalysis and ENTSO‐E data
Authors: Dubus Laurent , Saint‐Drenan Yves‐Marie , Troccoli Alberto , De Felice Matteo , Moreau Yohann , Ho‐Tran Linh , Goodess Clare , Amaro e Silva Rodrigo , Sanger Luke
Published: September 2023

The EU Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has produced an operational climate service, called C3S Energy, designed to enable the energy industry and policymakers to assess the impacts of climate variability and climate change on the energy sector in Europe. The C3S Energy service covers different time horizons, for the past 40 years and the future. It provides time series of electricity demand and supply from wind, solar photovoltaic and hydropower, and can be used for recent trends analysis, seasonal outlooks or the assessment of climate change impacts on energy mixes in the long term. This article introduces this service and the resulting dataset, with a focus on the design and validation of the energy conversion models, based on ENTSO‐E energy data and the ERA5 climate reanalysis. Flexibility and coherence across all countries have been preferred upon models' accuracy. However, the comparison with ENTSO‐E data shows that the models provide plausible energy indicators and, in particular, allow comparing climate variability effects on power demand and generation in a harmonized manner all over Europe.
Radioactive Iodine in Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma: A Systematic AGREE II Clinical Practice Guideline Appraisal
Authors: Monos Stylianos , Fritz Christian , Harris Jacob , Romeo Dominic , Ng Jinggang J. , Xu Katherine , Cooperberg Benjamin , Moreira Alvaro , Rajasekaran Karthik
Published: September 2023

Objective

Identify and appraise clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for radioactive iodine (RAI) indications in differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), and the treatment for radioactive iodine refractory (RAI‐R) DTC using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II tool.

Data Sources

MEDLINE (Pubmed), Ovid (EMBASE), and Scopus.

Review Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify CPGs addressing RAI in DTC. CPGs were appraised by 4 independent reviewers in 6 distinct areas of quality. Scaled domain scores were subsequently calculated for each domain. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated for each domain to assess interrater reliability.

Results

Sixteen guidelines were found addressing RAI indications for DTC. Of these 16, 9 also addressed the treatment of RAI‐R DTC. A further 6 unique guidelines were identified that exclusively address RAI‐R DTC, bringing the total number of guidelines to 22. The American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines for adult thyroid cancer were the highest scoring with a mean score of 83.5%. Two guidelines scored >60% in 5 or more domains, qualifying as “high” quality: ATA and British Thyroid Association. The highest scoring domain was domain 4: clarity of presentation (80.4%) while the lowest scoring domain was domain 5: applicability (38.6%).

Conclusion

Of the 22 guidelines identified, only two were “high quality.” CPGs exclusively addressing the treatment of RAI‐R DTC were weak with most guidelines scoring in the “low” quality range. This report reveals an unmet need for rigorously developed guidelines addressing indications for RAI in DTC, as well as the treatment for RAI‐R DTC.
Overview of global real‐world data sources for pediatric pharmacoepidemiologic research
Authors: Wharton Gerold T. , Becker Claudia , Bennett Dimitri , Burcu Mehmet , Bushnell Greta , Ferrajolo Carmen , Kaplan Sigal , McMahon Ann W. , Movva Naimisha , Raman Sudha R. , Scholle Oliver , Suh Mina , Sun Jenny W. , Horton Daniel B.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Given limited information available on real‐world data (RWD) sources with pediatric populations, this study describes features of globally available RWD sources for pediatric pharmacoepidemiologic research.

Methods

An online questionnaire about pediatric RWD sources and their attributes and capabilities was completed by members and affiliates of the International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology and representatives of nominated databases. All responses were verified by database representatives and summarized.

Results

Of 93 RWD sources identified, 55 unique pediatric RWD sources were verified, including data from Europe (47%), United States (38%), multiregion (7%), Asia‐Pacific (5%), and South America (2%). Most databases had nationwide coverage (82%), contained electronic health/medical records (47%) and/or administrative claims data (42%) and were linkable to other databases (65%). Most (71%) had limited outside access (e.g., by approval or through local collaborators); only 10 (18%) databases were publicly available. Six databases (11%) reported having >20 million pediatric observations. Most (91%) included children of all ages (birth until 18th birthday) and contained outpatient medication data (93%), while half (49%) contained inpatient medication data. Many databases captured vaccine information for children (71%), and one‐third had regularly updated data on pediatric height (31%) and weight (33%). Other pediatric data attributes captured include diagnoses and comorbidities (89%), lab results (58%), vital signs (55%), devices (55%), imaging results (42%), narrative patient histories (35%), and genetic/biomarker data (22%).

Conclusions

This study provides an overview with key details about diverse databases that allow researchers to identify fit‐for‐purpose RWD sources suitable for pediatric pharmacoepidemiologic research.
Reliability and validity evidence of the School Anxiety Inventory scores in a sample of Spanish children: A new self‐report
Authors: García‐Fernández José M. , Gómez‐Núñez María Isabel , Mateu‐Martínez Ornela , Urbán Dori J. A. , Inglés Cándido J.
Published: September 2023

Anxiety and school fears are relatively frequent in childhood. Psychology and education professionals need to have assessment instruments for screening for school anxiety in schools. This study aimed to develop, adapt, and examine the reliability and validity evidence of the School Anxiety Inventory for Primary Education (SAI‐PE) scores. Using random cluster sampling, a sample of 843 Spanish students (51.7% girls), ages ranging from 8 to 12 years (M = 10.03, SD = 1.25), was selected from public and concerted schools. The content validity of the SAI‐PE scores was analyzed through experts' judgment and students' assessment of their comprehension of the instrument's items. Exploratory and confirmatory factorial analyses support the validity of the SAI‐PE scores. The results revealed a multifactorial structure for the scores of anxiety reactions (cognitive, psychophysiological, and behavioral) and school situations scores (school punishment, victimization, social, and academic evaluation). The study conclusions reinforce the importance of having instruments that assess the complexity of emotional responses such as school anxiety, favoring its early detection and evaluating the effectiveness of preventive and/or therapeutic programs in schools.
Tetracycline inhibits tick host reproduction by modulating bacterial microbiota, gene expression and metabolism levels
Authors: Zhang Yan‐Kai , Li Si‐Si , Yang Chen , Zhang Yu‐Fan , Zhang Xiao‐Yu , Liu Jing‐Ze
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Ticks are disease vectors that are a matter of worldwide concern. Antibiotic treatments have been used to explore the interactions between ticks and their symbiotic microorganisms. In addition to altering the host microbial community, antibiotics can have toxic effects on the host.

RESULTS

In the tick Haemaphysalis longicornis, engorged females showed reproductive disruption after microinjection of tetracycline. Multi‐omics approaches were implemented to unravel the mechanisms of tick reproductive inhibition in this study. There were no significant changes in bacterial density in the whole ticks on Day (D)2 or D4 after tetracycline treatment, whereas the bacterial microbial community was significantly altered, especially on D4. The relative abundances of the bacteria Staphylococcus, Bacillus and Pseudomonas decreased after tetracycline treatment, whereas the relative abundances of Coxiella and Rhodococcus increased. Ovarian transcriptional analysis revealed a cumulative effect of tetracycline treatment, as there was a significant increase in the number of differentially expressed genes with treatment time and a higher number of downregulated genes. The tick physiological pathways including lysosome, extracellular matrix (ECM)–receptor interaction, biosynthesis of ubiquinone and other terpenoids‐quinones, insect hormone biosynthesis, and focal adhesion were significantly inhibited after 4 days of tetracycline treatment. Metabolite levels were altered after tetracycline treatment and the differences increased with treatment time. The differential metabolites were involved in a variety of physiological pathways; the downregulated metabolites were significantly enriched in the nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, galactose metabolism, and ether lipid metabolism pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that tetracycline inhibits tick reproduction through the regulation of tick bacterial communities, gene expression and metabolic levels. The results may provide new strategies for tick control. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Compositions of hydrogen and oxygen isotopes of precipitation in Xiamen, southeast China coast: Seasonal variations, synoptic processes, and typhoons impact
Authors: Lin Yunpeng , Li Yunhai , Wang Liang , Yin Xinjie , Zou Xiaochun , Li Guogang
Published: September 2023

In this study, the δ2H and δ18O values of 162 precipitation samples (including 33 typhoon‐related samples), collected in Xiamen, southeast China coast, during June 2018 to August 2019, were investigated and analysed. The findings indicate an obvious seasonal variation in the δ2H and δ18O, primarily influenced by the East Asia Monsoon system with notable impact from typhoon occurrences during summer months. The synoptic time‐series variation of δ2H and δ18O exhibits greater complexity: three distinct types of isotopic variations were observed, indicating a clear influence from re‐evaporation processes and continuing equilibrium fractionation during condensation. The variation patterns of δ2H and δ18O were dominated by the local meteorological parameters that govern the re‐evaporation, whereas the overall isotopic composition of precipitation was primarily regulated by the moisture sources. The unique atmospheric structure and dynamic processes of typhoons led to a three‐stage variation of δ2H and δ18O in precipitation as the distance between the typhoon's centre and the study area changed. The consistent configuration of typhoon structure prompts analogous staged changes in different typhoon‐related precipitation. The trajectory of moisture source for typhoon‐related precipitation demonstrates a clear spiral structure (excluding typhoon Yutu), revealing notable impacts from typhoon events.
Robust cooperative tracking of multiagent systems with asymmetric saturation actuator via output feedback
Authors: Qian Juan , Wang Xiaoling , Su Housheng , Jiang Guo‐Ping
Published: September 2023

The robust tracking control problem of the leader‐follower multiagent systems affected by asymmetric input saturation and external disturbances is addressed in this article, by following three steps. First, an radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) is developed to estimate the external disturbances and supersaturation, where the supersaturation is induced by asymmetric saturation actuator. Second, combining with the developed radial basis function neural network, a reduced‐order observer‐based static protocol and a reduced‐order observer‐based adaptive one are designed for leader‐follower systems with un‐directed communication topology as well as those with directed communication topology, respectively. Third, some mild premises are given to guarantee the semiglobal robust leader‐follower consensus for the above mentioned two kinds of multiagent systems. Finally, the theoretical results are verified by several numerical simulations.
Preparation of Starch‐Fatty Acid Esters from Agro‐Based Raw Materials (Corn Starch, Cassava Starch, Coconut Oil, and Castor Seed Oil)
Authors: Amos Olusegun , Pashameah Rami Adel
Published: September 2023

The preparation of starch‐fatty acid esters is investigated for corn starch and cassava starch. The fatty acid contents are obtained from the hydrolysis of coconut oil and castor oil respectively and are characterized by GC/MS techniques. The major fatty acid component of coconut oil is found to be lauric acid (34%) while that of castor oil is ricinoleic acid (84%). Four different starch‐fatty esters are prepared, namely cassava starch‐coconut fatty acid esters (CacoFAE), cassava starch‐castor fatty acid ester (CacaFAE), corn starch‐coconut fatty acid ester (CocoFAE), and corn starch‐castor fatty acid ester (CocaFAE). The starch‐fatty acid esters are analyzed using FT‐IR and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometer techniques. All the esterified starch‐fatty acid esters contain the C=O absorption peak at 1707 cm−1 which is the peak corresponding to the ester group formed between the starch hydroxyl and fatty acid carboxylic functions. The major fatty acid eluted from LC‐MS for CacoFAE and CocoFAE is lauric (dodecanoic) acid with 67.4% and 74% respectively while ricinoleic acid (58%) is obtained for CacaFAE. The data for CocaFAE are mainly dominated by the ester of the fatty acids.
Updated risk models for lung cancer due to radon exposure in the German Wismut cohort of uranium miners, 1946–2018
Authors: Kreuzer M. , Deffner V. , Sommer M. , Fenske N.
Published: September 2023

UNSCEAR recently recommended that future research on the lung cancer risk at low radon exposures or exposure rates should focus on more contemporary uranium miners. For this purpose, risk models in the German Wismut cohort of uranium miners were updated extending the follow-up period by 5 years to 1946–2018. The full cohort (n = 58,972) and specifically the 1960 + sub-cohort of miners first hired in 1960 or later (n = 26,764) were analyzed. The 1960 + sub-cohort is characterized by low protracted radon exposure of high quality of measurements. Internal Poisson regression was used to estimate the excess relative risk (ERR) for lung cancer per cumulative radon exposure in Working Level Months (WLM). Applying the BEIR VI exposure-age-concentration model, the ERR/100 WLM was 2.50 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81; 4.18) and 6.92 (95% CI < 0; 16.59) among miners with attained age < 55 years, time since exposure 5–14 years, and annual exposure rates < 0.5 WL in the full (n = 4329 lung cancer deaths) and in the 1960 + sub-cohort (n = 663 lung cancer deaths), respectively. Both ERR/WLM decreased with older attained ages, increasing time since exposure, and higher exposure rates. Findings of the 1960 + sub-cohort are in line with those from large pooled studies, and ERR/WLM are about two times higher than in the full Wismut cohort. Notably, 20–30 years after closure of the Wismut mines in 1990, the estimated fraction of lung cancer deaths attributable to occupational radon exposure is still 26% in the full Wismut cohort and 19% in the 1960 + sub-cohort, respectively. This demonstrates the need for radiation protection against radon.
Communities and the Dead in Africa and Ancient Ethiopia (50–800 CE)
Authors: Basanti Dilpreet Singh , Mekonen Naomi
Published: September 2023

In the Global North, death is often treated as the departure of a person. However, across Africa, families and communities often include living and dead members, usually called “ancestors.” In this article, we use archaeology to support educators in communicating key aspects of deathways and the study of ancestors in Africa. We do this through an example drawn from the ancient kingdom of Aksum in Ethiopia (50–800 CE). Archaeologist Dilpreet Singh Basanti previously analyzed human remains from Aksum and reconstructed an ancient community’s burial and ongoing engagement with a young woman. Artist Naomi Mekonen has created a surrealist lens to present this woman’s story of death in this article’s figures. Surrealism is a rising perspective in modern art from the Tigray region and is used here to shift the tone from death as a grim tale of loss to death as a love story. We show how ongoing actions around the young woman’s tomb relate to her continued role in her family and community. Our example illustrates that ancestors are elements of healthy community life. Ancestors provide a guiding voice that helps to define people’s values and experiences of the world. In this way, ancestors are inseparable from “culture,” and exploring these themes helps us to appreciate the role of culture as a guiding way that connects generations of loved ones, living and dead.