bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual‐mode sensing biopolymer membrane impregnated with molybdenum for ethylene detection and monitoring of fruits
Authors: Gandhi Sukhmani , Ghosh Moushumi , Roy Diptarka , Vernick Sefi , Richter Shachar
Published: September 2024

In this study, a dual‐mode sensing biopolymer membrane employing chitosan (CS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and ammonium molybdate (AM) was developed for optical and electrochemical detection of ethylene. The biopolymer composite was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra‐red (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).The relationship between ethylene concentration and optical/electrochemical response was investigated. XRD analysis showed enhanced ionic conduction, supported by SEM images showing uniform pore distribution within the synthesized membrane, facilitating effective gas interaction with Molybdenum. The increased FTIR peak intensities with higher amount of molybdenum in the membrane indicates enhanced molecular interactions. Applied to a microelectrode chip, the membrane exhibits a measurable electrochemical response with oxidation peak appearing in cyclic voltammogram as Molybdenum ions undergo reduction upon ethylene exposure. Colorimetric measurements, based on CIELAB values, reveals visible color shift with increasing ethylene concentrations, particularly at 10% molybdenum impregnation. Ionic conductivity and total color difference exhibit parallel variation with ethylene concentrations. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms molybdenum oxidation state shift from +6 to +5 in the membrane upon ethylene interaction. The inexpensive colorimetric method enables direct color change visualization in practical applications. The resulting dual‐functional biopolymer membrane shows adaptability and versatility by responding to both optical and electrochemical signals.
Insights into medicinal attributes of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine derivatives as anticancer agents
Authors: Kumar Ankush , Sharma Vishakha , Behl Tapan , Ganesan Subbulakshmi , Nathiya Deepak , Gulati Monica , Khalid Mohammad , Elossaily Gehan M. , Chigurupati Sridevi , Sachdeva Monika
Published: September 2024

Cancer ranks among the most life‐threatening diseases worldwide and is continuously affecting all age groups. Consequently, many research studies are being carried out to develop new cancer treatments, but many of them experience resistance and cause severe toxicity to the patients. Therefore, there is a continuous need to design novel anticancer agents that are target‐based, have a higher potency, and have minimal toxicity. The imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine (IP) pharmacophore has been found to be a prominent moiety in the field of medicinal chemistry due to its vast biological properties. Also, it holds immense potential for combating cancer with minimal side effects, depending on the substitution patterns of the core structure. IPs exhibit significant capability in regulating various cellular pathways, offering possibilities for targeted anticancer effects. The present review summarizes the anticancer profile of numerous IP derivatives synthesized and developed by various researchers from 2016 till now, as inhibitors of phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/mTOR), protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (Akt/mTOR), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), and tubulin polymerization. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the anticancer activity afforded by the discussed IP compounds, emphasizing the structure–activity‐relationships (SARs). The aim is also to underscore the potential therapeutic future of the IP moiety as a potent partial structure for upcoming cancer drug development and to aid researchers in the field of rational drug design.
ESIPT+TICT‐Based Near‐IR Detection of Al3+ and F− in Live Cells: Molecular Docking with Acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Showkat Sheikh , Kaur Satinder , Kaur Satwinderjeet , Chander Mishra Prakash , Singh Prabhpreet
Published: September 2024

The interplay of ESIPT+TICT mechanisms in 1,8‐naphthalimide–hydroxyquinoline (NQ−OH) molecular rotor were reported for the near‐IR ‘turn‐on’ emission (λmax 600 nm) and ratiometric (A405nm/A345nm) absorbance‐based detection of Al3+ ions in aqueous medium and live cells which were supported by NMR, IR and CV techniques. The limit of detection (LOD) for Al3+ ions is 100 nM and 14.57 nM. The self‐assembled spherical aggregates of NQ−OH transformed into cuboidal aggregates upon coordination with Al3+ ions supported by microscopic and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. The complex NQ‐OH+Al3+ was further used for the secondary detection of F− ions in aqueous medium via displacement approach with LOD as low as 2.67 nM. A deeper study revealed that the NQ−OH is a solvatochromic dye. Probably, the NQ−OH either in the aggregated state or in the coordination state with Al3+ ions, showed an increase in the emission intensity at 600 nm due to inhibition of the ESIPT process and trigger of the TICT process. We have demonstrated the utility of NQ−OH for the detection of Al3+ ions and NQ‐OH+Al3+ complex for the detection of F− ions in MCF7 live cells. We have also discussed the molecular docking studies of NQ−OH with acetylcholinesterase enzyme.
Selective Protein Degradation through Tetrazine Ligation of Genetically Incorporated Unnatural Amino Acids
Authors: Chen Jinghao , Dai Gaocan , Duan Shixiang , Huang Yang , Wu Yi‐Lin , Xie Zhiyong , Tsai Yu‐Hsuan
Published: September 2024

Small molecule‐responsive tags for targeted protein degradation are valuable tools for fundamental research and drug target validation. Here, we show that genetically incorporated unnatural amino acids bearing a strained alkene or alkyne functionality can act as a minimalist tag for targeted protein degradation. Specifically, we observed the degradation of strained alkene‐ or alkyne‐containing kinases and E2 ubiquitin‐conjugating enzymes upon treatment with hydrophobic tetrazine conjugates. The extent of the induced protein degradation depends on the identity of the target protein, unnatural amino acid, and tetrazine conjugate, as well as the site of the unnatural amino acid in the target protein. Mechanistic studies revealed proteins undergo proteasomal degradation after tetrazine tethering, and the identity of tetrazine conjugates influences the dependence of ubiquitination on protein degradation. This work provides an alternative approach for targeted protein degradation and mechanistic insight, facilitating the future development of more effective targeted protein degradation strategies.
Temporal Trends of Infant Mortality Secondary to Congenital Heart Disease: National CDC Cohort Analysis (1999–2020)
Authors: Chobufo Muchi Ditah , Ali Shafaqat , Taha Amro , Duhan Sanchit , Patel Neel , Gonuguntla Karthik , Ludhwani Dipesh , Thyagaturu Harshith , Keisham Bijeta , Shaik Ayesha , Alharbi Anas , Sattar Yasar , Mamas Mamas A. , Kohli Utkarsh , Balla Sudarshan
Published: September 2024

Background

Infant mortality continues to be a significant problem for patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Limited data exist on the recent trends of mortality in infants with CHD.

Methods

The CDC WONDER (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide‐Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research) was queried to identify deaths occurring within the United States with CHD listed as one of the causes of death between 1999 and 2020. Subsequently, trends were calculated using the Joinpoint regression program (version 4.9.1.0; National Cancer Institute).

Results

A total of 47,015 deaths occurred in infants due to CHD at the national level from the year 1999 to 2020. The overall proportional infant mortality (compared to all deaths) declined (47.3% to 37.1%, average annual percent change [AAPC]: −1.1 [95% CI −1.6 to −0.6, p < 0.001]). There was a significant decline in proportional mortality in both Black (45.3% to 34.3%, AAPC: −0.5 [−0.8 to −0.2, p = 0.002]) and White patients (55.6% to 48.6%, AAPC: −1.2 [−1.7 to −0.7, p = 0.001]), with a steeper decline among White than Black patients. A statistically significant decline in the proportional infant mortality in both non‐Hispanic (43.3% to 33.0%, AAPC: −1.3% [95% CI −1.9 to −0.7, p < 0.001]) and Hispanic (67.6% to 57.7%, AAPC: −0.7 [95% CI −0.9 to −0.4, p < 0.001]) patients was observed, with a steeper decline among non‐Hispanic infant population. The proportional infant mortality decreased in males (47.5% to 53.1%, AAPC: −1.4% [−1.9 to −0.9, p < 0.001]) and females (47.1% to 39.6%, AAPC: −0.9 [−1.9 to 0.0, p = 0.05]). A steady decline in for both females and males was noted.

Conclusion

Our study showed a significant decrease in CHD‐related mortality rate in infants and age‐adjusted mortality rate (AAMR) between 1999 and 2020. However, sex‐based, racial/ethnic disparities were noted, with female, Black, and Hispanic patients showing a lesser decline than male, White, and non‐Hispanic patients.
Consider potential implications of Title IX exemption granted to Baylor University
Authors: Romano Robert , Shanklin Mackenzie
Published: September 2024

Title IX was originally enacted to protect college students from sex discrimination in educational programs or activities, including athletics. Specifically, Title IX states that “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Keep this background information in mind as you read in what follows of a recent development that occurred in the Title IX arena.
Did court dismiss fraternity members’ legal action?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: September 2024

The Student Conduct & Academic Integrity Programs at the University of California, Riverside received a report expressing concern for the health of a pledge in the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. SCAIP began an investigation into the fraternity's pledge process.
Diagnostic uncertainties in congenital syphilis: A case report
Authors: Khanal Niharika , Basnet Srijana , Paudel Daman Raj , Karn Vivek , Tamang Sunita , Shakya Jasmine , Shah Newton Ashish
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Congenital syphilis is a forgotten disease, and often misdiagnosed. It can present with a myriad of clinical features, mimicking various other conditions therefore posing difficulty in diagnosis. Patient may be born preterm with low birth weight, failure to thrive with hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukocytosis. It is a treatable condition, commonly treated with penicillin or ceftriaxone.
TEMPO‐Catalyzed Continuous‐Flow Aerobic Oxidations of Alcohols on Silica
Authors: Takizawa Kai , Ishihara Takuma , Tani Shinki , Hamada Yusuke , Masuda Koichiro , Onozawa Shun‐Ya , Sato Kazuhiko , Kobayashi Shū
Published: September 2024

2,2,6,6′‐Tetramethylpiperidine‐N‐oxyl (TEMPO) is a highly efficient oxidation catalyst, valued for its environmentally benign nature, particularly in comparison to transition‐metal catalysts. Despite their merits, TEMPO‐based catalysts are not notably cost‐effective. Immobilization of TEMPO onto supports offers a promising strategy to overcome this limitation. In this work, we present the synthesis and application of immobilized TEMPO catalysts 2–5, prepared via a straightforward condensation reaction, for the aerobic oxidation of alcohols. These catalysts demonstrate remarkable activity for alcohol oxidations under continuous‐flow conditions, employing nitric acid as the co‐catalyst. Notably, catalyst 2 immobilized by COOH silica gel exhibits outstanding performance for the oxidation of benzyl alcohol by oxygen gas, achieving a turnover frequency (TOF) of 15 h−1 and a turnover number (TON) exceeding 300. Catalyst 2 further demonstrates broad substrate scope, effectively oxidizing primary, secondary, and benzylic alcohols. Post‐reaction analysis of spent catalyst 2 reveals that deactivation primarily stems from nitrosation of the N−O bond. Interestingly, the amide moiety remains intact despite the harsh acidic reaction conditions.
Design of an Electrochemical Cell for Continuous Wave EPR Measurements of Radical Ions
Authors: Bruyers Dominic K. F. , Richert Sabine
Published: September 2024

The combination of continuous wave electron paramagnetic resonance (cw‐EPR) with electrochemistry is highly attractive as it allows a clean in‐situ generation and the subsequent spectroscopic characterisation of radical ions, which are important intermediates in many photocatalytic cycles as well as light‐induced processes occurring in biological systems or optoelectronic devices. Although commercial setups for spectroelectrochemical EPR are available, they are often expensive and tailored to a particular spectroscopic setup. Here we present a design for a low‐cost electrochemical EPR cell that can be used in combination with any commercial cw‐EPR instrumentation. The cell design is compared to existing setups and the performance of the cell is evaluated by comparison of EPR spectra obtained by chemical and electrochemical oxidation of a graphene fragment.
Eczema in early childhood increases the risk of allergic multimorbidity
Authors: Miltner L. A. , Vonk J. M. , van der Velde J. L. , Sprikkelman A. B.
Published: September 2024

Background

Eczema in early childhood is associated with the development of subsequent allergic diseases, including food allergy (FA), asthma and hay fever. However, eczema has a heterogenous presentation regarding onset age and persistence, which may lead to different allergic outcomes during childhood/adolescence. Recently, sub‐phenotypes of eczema have been suggested as predictors of allergic multimorbidity. Thus, we aimed to identify associations of eczema phenotypes with FA, asthma and hay fever during childhood/adolescence. Additionally, we described the trajectories of eczema, asthma and hay fever stratified by FA presence.

Methods

TRACKER (Trajectories of Allergy in Children in Real Life Databases) is a population‐based cohort study of 6852 children/adolescents from the Lifelines cohort. We investigated the associations of seven eczema phenotypes, based on onset age and persistence, with FA, asthma and hay fever using logistic regression, adjusted for appropriate covariates. Disease trajectories were determined by calculating prevalence at different ages.

Results

Participants who suffered from eczema throughout childhood showed higher risks of developing FA, hay fever and asthma. “Very early onset—persistent” eczema showed the strongest associations with FA, asthma and hay fever. The prevalence of eczema, asthma and hay fever at all ages was significantly higher in participants with FA, compared to those without.

Conclusion

One of the largest cohort studies on this topic to date shows that (very) early onset and persistent eczema increases the risk of allergic multimorbidity. Identification of infants at risk for developing (very) early onset eczema is of utmost importance to prevent allergic multimorbidity.
Electron Attachment to the Nucleobase Uracil in Diethylene Glycol: The Signature of a Doorway
Authors: Narayanan S J Jishnu , Verma Pooja , Adhikary Amitava , Kumar Dutta Achintya
Published: September 2024

The cellular environment plays a significant role in low energy electron‐mediated radiation damage to genetic materials. In this study, we have modeled the effect of the bulk medium on electron attachment to nucleobases in diethylene glycol (DEG) using uracil as a test case, in accordance with recent experimental work on the observation of dissociative quasi‐free electron attachment to nucleoside via excited anion radical in solution (in DEG). Our EOM‐CCSD‐based quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) simulations indicate that the electron scavenging by uracil in DEG is much slower than that observed in the aqueous medium due to its viscosity. This work also establishes that a doorway mechanism exists in uracil microsolvated and bulk solvated with DEG, with the dipole‐bound state and solvent‐bound state acting as doorway states, respectively.
A Benchmark Study of DFT‐Computed p‐Block Element Lewis Pair Formation Enthalpies Against Experimental Calorimetric Data
Authors: Erdmann Philipp , Sigmund Lukas M. , Schmitt Manuel , Hähnel Theresa , Dittmer Linus B. , Greb Lutz
Published: September 2024

The quantification of Lewis acidity is of fundamental and applied importance in chemistry. While the computed fluoride ion affinity (FIA) is the most widely accepted thermodynamic metric, only sparse experimental values exist. Accordingly, a benchmark of methods for computing Lewis pair formation enthalpies, also with a broader set of Lewis bases against experimental data, is missing. Herein, we evaluate different density functionals against a set of 112 experimentally determined Lewis acid/base binding enthalpies and gauge influences such as solvation correction in structure optimization. From that, we can recommend r2SCAN‐3c for robust quantification of this omnipresent interaction.
Advances in Oral Exfoliative Cytology: From Cancer Diagnosis to Systemic Disease Detection
Authors: Wang Shan , Zheng Ze
Published: September 2024

Oral exfoliative cytology has emerged as a valuable tool in the early detection of oral cancer and other systemic diseases. This review comprehensively examines the current applications and recent advancements in oral exfoliative cytology techniques. We analyzed published literature from the past decade, focusing on methodological improvements, diagnostic accuracy, and emerging applications. Key findings include: (1) Enhanced cell collection and preparation methods have significantly improved sample quality and diagnostic reliability. (2) Integration of molecular markers and DNA analysis with traditional cytomorphological assessment has increased diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for oral cancer detection. (3) Novel applications in systemic disease detection, including diabetes and iron overload disorders, demonstrate the expanding utility of this technique. (4) Computer‐assisted analysis and deep learning algorithms show promise in improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in standardization and widespread clinical implementation. This review provides a critical evaluation of oral exfoliative cytology's current status and future potential in oral and systemic disease diagnosis.
Cautionary tales on the use of proxies to estimate body size and form of extinct animals
Authors: Gayford Joel H. , Engelman Russell K. , Sternes Phillip C. , Itano Wayne M. , Bazzi Mohamad , Collareta Alberto , Salas‐Gismondi Rodolfo , Shimada Kenshu
Published: September 2024

Body size is of fundamental importance to our understanding of extinct organisms. Physiology, ecology and life history are all strongly influenced by body size and shape, which ultimately determine how a species interacts with its environment. Reconstruction of body size and form in extinct animals provides insight into the dynamics underlying community composition and faunal turnover in past ecosystems and broad macroevolutionary trends. Many extinct animals are known only from incomplete remains, necessitating the use of anatomical proxies to reconstruct body size and form. Numerous limitations affecting the appropriateness of these proxies are often overlooked, leading to controversy and downstream inaccuracies in studies for which reconstructions represent key input data. In this perspective, we discuss four prominent case studies (Dunkleosteus, Helicoprion, Megalodon and Perucetus) in which proxy taxa have been used to estimate body size and shape from fragmentary remains. We synthesise the results of these and other studies to discuss nuances affecting the validity of taxon selection when reconstructing extinct organisms, as well as mitigation measures that can ensure the selection of the most appropriate proxy. We argue that these precautionary measures are necessary to maximise the robustness of reconstructions in extinct taxa for better evolutionary and ecological inferences.
Invasive plant species support each other's growth in low‐nutrient conditions but compete when nutrients are abundant
Authors: Oduor Ayub M. O. , Yu Han , Liu Yanjie
Published: September 2024

Globally, numerous ecosystems have been co‐invaded by multiple exotic plant species that can have competitive or facilitative interactions with each other and with native plants. Invaded ecosystems often exhibit spatial heterogeneity in soil moisture and nutrient levels, with some habitats having more nutrient‐rich and moist soils than others. The stress‐gradient hypothesis predicts that plants are likely to engage in facilitative interactions when growing in stressful environments, such as nutrient‐deficient or water‐deficient soils. In contrast, when resources are abundant, competitive interactions between plants should prevail. The invasional meltdown hypothesis proposes that facilitative interactions between invasive species can enhance their establishment and amplify their ecological impact. Considering both hypotheses can offer insights into the complex interactions among invasive and native plants across environmental gradients. However, experimental tests of the effects of soil moisture and nutrient co‐limitation on interactions between invasive and native plants at both interspecific and intraspecific levels in light of these hypotheses are lacking. We performed a greenhouse pot experiment in which we cultivated individual focal plants from five congeneric pairs of invasive and native species. Each focal plant was subjected to one of three levels of plant–plant interactions: (1) intraspecific, in which the focal plant was grown with another individual of the same species; (2) interspecific, involving a native and an invasive plant; and (3) interspecific, involving two native or invasive individuals. These plant–plant interaction treatments were fully crossed with two levels of water availability (drought vs. well‐watered) and two levels of nutrient supply (low vs. high). Consistent with the stress‐gradient and invasional meltdown hypotheses, our findings show that under low‐nutrient conditions, the biomass production of invasive focal plants was facilitated by invasive interspecific neighbors. However, under high‐nutrient conditions, the biomass production of invasive focal plants was suppressed by invasive interspecific neighbors. When competing with native interspecific neighbors, high‐nutrient conditions similarly enhanced the biomass production of both invasive and native focal plants. Invasive and native focal plants were neither competitively suppressed nor facilitated by conspecific neighbors. Taken together, these results suggest that co‐occurring invasive exotic plant species may facilitate each other in low‐nutrient habitats but compete in high‐nutrient habitats.
Establishing a novel model to assess exercise capacity in chronic heart failure based on stress echocardiography
Authors: Cen Huan , Chen Sinan , Feng Shen , Chen Xiankun , Zhu Huiying , Jiang Wei , Zhang Han , Liu Hongmei , Liu Bo , Lu Weihui , Sun Pengtao
Published: September 2024

Aims

The aim of this study was to develop a simple, fast and efficient clinical diagnostic model, composed of exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) indicators, of the exercise capacity of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) by comparing the effectiveness of different classifiers.

Methods and results

Eighty patients with CHF (aged 60 ± 11 years; 78% male) were prospectively enrolled in this study. All patients underwent both cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and ESE and were divided into two groups according to the VE/VCO2 slope: 30 patients with VE/VCO2 slope ventilation classification (VC)1 (i.e., VE/VCO2 slope < 30) and 50 patients with VC2 (i.e., VE/VCO2 slope ≥ 30). The analytical features of all patients in the four phases (rest, warm‐up, peak and recovery phases) of ESE included the following parameters: left ventricular (LV) systolic function, LV systolic function reserve, LV diastolic function, LV diastolic function reserve and right ventricular function. Logistic regression (LR), extreme gradient boosting trees (XGBT), classification regression tree (CART) and random forest (RF) classifiers were implemented in a K‐fold cross‐validation model to distinguish VC1 from VC2 (LVEF in VC1 vs. VC2: 44 ± 8% vs. 43 ± 11%, P = 0.617). Among the four models, the LR model had the largest area under the curve (AUC) (0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.73 to 0.92). In the multiple‐variable LR model, the differences between the peak‐exercise‐phase and resting‐phase values of E (ΔE), s′peak and sex were strong independent predictors of a VE/VCO2 slope ≥ 30 (P value: ΔE = 0.002, s′peak = 0.005, sex = 0.020). E/e′peak, ΔLVEF, ΔLV global longitudinal strain and Δstroke volume were not predictors of VC in the multivariate LR model (P > 0.05 for the above).

Conclusions

Compared with the LR, XGBT, CART and RF models, the LR model performed best at predicting the VE/VCO2 slope category of CHF patients. A score chart was created to predict VE/VCO2 slopes ≥ 30. ΔE, s′peak and sex are independent predictors of exercise capacity in CHF patients.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Four‐Component Carbonylation Reactions of Acetylene: Synthesis of β‐Perfluoroalkyl Acrylamides
Authors: Cao Zhusong , Wang Qiang , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias
Published: September 2024

The simplest alkyne, acetylene, is a suitable C2 linker synthon that enables the connection of organic molecules with different functional groups. However, reactions of acetylene with advanced organic building blocks are much less explored compared to substituted alkynes. In this article, we present a straightforward palladium‐catalyzed four‐component carbonylation reaction with acetylene, CO, amines, and perfluoroalkyl halides that enables the preparation of various β‐perfluoroalkyl acrylamides in one step. This protocol also provides a new strategy for the late‐stage modification of bioactive molecules, as demonstrated by the construction of β‐perfluoroalkyl ibrutinib derivatives.
Environmental Risk Assessment of Time-Variable Toxicant Exposure with Toxicokinetic–Toxicodynamic Modeling of Sublethal Endpoints and Moving Time Windows: A Case Study with Ceriodaphnia dubia
Authors: Romoli Carlo , Trijau Marie , Muller Erik B. , Zakharova Liubov , Kuhl Roland , Coors Anja , Sherborne Neil , Goussen Benoit , Ashauer Roman
Published: September 2024

Toxicokinetic–toxicodynamic (TKTD) modeling has received increasing attention in terms of the regulatory environmental risk assessment of chemicals. This type of mechanistic model can integrate all available data from individual-level bioassays into a single framework and enable refined risk assessments by extrapolating from laboratory results to time-variable exposure scenarios, based, for instance, on surface water exposure modeling (e.g., FOCUS). Dynamic energy budget (DEB) models coupled with TKTD modules (DEB–TKTD) constitute the leading approach to assess and predict sublethal effects of chemicals on individual organisms. However, thorough case studies are rare. We provide a state-of-the-art example with the standard aquatic test species Ceriodaphnia dubia and the fungicide azoxystrobin, including all steps, from bespoke laboratory toxicity tests to model calibration and validation, through to environmental risk assessment. Following the framework proposed in the European Food Safety Authority Scientific Opinion from 2018, we designed bespoke good laboratory practice–compliant laboratory toxicity studies based on test guideline 211 of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and then identified robust parameter values from those data for all relevant model parameters through model calibration. The DEB–TKTD model, DEBtox2019, then informed the design of the validation experiment. Once validated, the model was used to perform predictions for a time-variable exposure scenario generated by FOCUS. A moving time-window approach was used to perform the environmental risk assessment. This assessment method reduces uncertainty in the risk assessment while maintaining consistency with the traditional measures of risk. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2409–2421. © 2024 Syngenta Crop Protection AG. ibacon GmbH and The Author(s). Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
A fire safety engineering approach to improving community resilience to the impacts of wildfire
Authors: Penney Greg , Baker Greg , Valencia Andres , Gorham Daniel
Published: September 2024

Each year severe wildfires continue to cause significant destruction resulting in the loss of life, property, critical infrastructure, and the environment. In an effort to increase community preparedness and resilience to wildfire, international jurisdictions have adopted both guiding principles and prescriptive codes that apply to both urban planning and fire engineering design of buildings within the wildland–urban interface. These measures are intended to protect occupants, enhance the survivability of structures from different fire exposure mechanisms, and increase the chances of successful firefighting operations. However, research has identified (i) inconsistent approaches to regulation and governance; (ii) limited research on which urban design and building standards are based; and (iii) misaligned or contradictory urban design and building standards. This not only stifles the use of development proposing suitable performance‐based design that could achieve the required outcomes but can increase administrative burdens and development costs without increasing safety. The aim of this current study is to contribute to addressing identified shortfalls by identifying and distilling the last 23 years of research in the field related to (i) the development of evidence‐based performance requirements, and (ii) the application of effective governance arrangements in order to enhance urban design and wildfire engineering practices. These aims are achieved through a systematic literature review. Ultimately, however, of the 608 initial articles captured in the identification phase of the SLR, not a single article provided insight into the most effective regulatory or governance mechanism, and only three provided criteria suitable for adoption as a performance requirement. While the aims of this study were only partially achieved, it does provide a foundation for the field by way of identifying and distilling the current state of practice.
Feel the Pressure? Normative Pressures as a Unifying Mechanism for Relational Antecedents of Employee Turnover
Authors: Hom Peter W. , Rogers Kristie , Allen David G. , Zhang Mian , Lee Cynthia , Zhao Hailin Helen
Published: September 2024

Relational perspectives on turnover antecedents have gained momentum in recent years, highlighting three distinct relational forces underlying employees' turnover decisions—notably, job embeddedness, social capital, and turnover contagion. However, these distinct perspectives are typically examined independent of one another, with little theoretical integration or holistic understanding of the shared mechanisms through which these relational antecedents operate on turnover intentions and behavior. We propose a conceptual model integrating the three types of relational antecedents (specifying their unique effects), while positing normative pressures from work and nonwork relationships as a fundamental consideration underlying quit decisions that translates their effects on leaving. Our model tests find support for this common mediator, even when controlling for traditional mediating mechanisms (i.e., job attitudes and perceived alternatives). Our tests also include important cultural considerations, allowing for comparisons between national cultures in our sample of nearly 700 surveyed employees and their subsequent quit intentions and behaviors, spanning the USA, Hong Kong, and China. Our tests revealed that on‐ and off‐the‐job embeddedness reduces quit propensity while prospective colleague turnover boosts that propensity. Path analyses further determined that normative pressures predict quit propensity (beyond attitudes and alternatives), and that such pressures mediate how job embeddedness and prospective coworker turnover influence quit propensity. We tease apart these effects across national cultures and discuss theoretical and practical implications of our findings.
Factors influencing kindergarten Families' perceptions of home–school interactions
Authors: Paulick Judy , Quinn Alexa , Whittaker Jessica , Vitiello Virginia , Pianta Robert
Published: September 2024

The transition to and through kindergarten is consequential for the academic, social, and emotional wellbeing of children. Policies and practices are in place to smooth that transition. Researchers are working to understand which practices work best and for whom, particularly as the student population in U.S. schools continues to diversify. In this study, we analysed data from a large longitudinal study of racially, ethnically, and linguistically diverse families, children, and their teachers. We used multi‐level modelling to examine the factors associated with families' reports of strong home–school interactions at the transition to and through kindergarten on the Family Involvement Questionnaire. We found that children having attended preschool and lower class size were associated with family reports of strong interactions. Surprisingly, we also found that teacher–family language match, teachers' self‐efficacy for working with families, and teachers' beliefs about children were not significantly associated with families' reports of strong or weak interactions. This work has implications for family engagement policy and practice as children transition to and through kindergarten.
Canaries in coal mines and normal accidents: The CrowdStrike outage and its lessons for critical infrastructure
Authors: Morris John C. , Mayer Martin K.
Published: September 2024

The service outage caused by a faulty CrowdStrike software update in July 2024 triggered a widespread disruption in services and activities worldwide, ranging from airline operations, to credit card transaction processing, emergency and cellular telephone operations, and technical issues for more than 8 million Microsoft Windows users. The outage was not the result of a deliberate attempt to disrupt systems, but rather of what Charles Perrow has termed a “normal accident.” This article explores the implications of technological complexity for critical infrastructure and offers ideas for a research agenda to better understand resilience in tightly coupled, critical infrastructure systems.
The optical properties of nano‐structural α‐Fe2O3 dependence on the shape
Authors: Liu Yousheng , He Qinnan , Wang Zhan , Jiao Xiaomei , Zhang Yinping
Published: September 2024

Three different crystal morphologies of α‐Fe2O3, including uniform hexagonal, square, and rhombic shapes, were prepared according to the aqueous‐thermal reaction. The hexagonal‐shaped α‐Fe2O3 was enclosed by the 104 plane, while the square and rhombic structures were enclosed by the 110 plane. Two absorption peaks at 455 and 532 cm−1 were found for the perpendicular (⊥) modes, and one absorption peak at 650 cm−1 appeared for the parallel (||) mode for hexagon‐shaped α‐Fe2O3 during analysis by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. However, the peaks of square‐ and rhombic‐shaped α‐Fe2O3 for perpendicular (⊥) mode blueshifted, and the former two peaks merged together forming a broad band at approximately 480 cm−1.

For Raman spectra determination, the peaks arose from the Brillouin zone center, and two additional peaks were observed at 660 and 1320 cm−1, belonging to 1 longitudinal optical (1LO) and 2 longitudinal optical (2LO) modes. All three materials exhibited higher intensities when excited at a wavelength of 633 cm−1. Furthermore, in the polarization state, the centers of all peak positions slightly shifted for hexagon‐shaped α‐Fe2O3, but all peak positions for square‐shaped and rhombic‐shaped α‐Fe2O3 exhibited a significant blueshift. The structure of hexagon‐shaped α‐Fe2O3 was relatively tolerant regarding the polarization properties of vibration modes; however, the symmetry of crystal square‐shaped and rhombic‐shaped α‐Fe2O3 changed, subsequently revealing different optical properties.

Research Highlights

The hexagon‐shaped, square‐shaped, and rhombic‐shaped α‐Fe2O3 enclosed by different planes were synthesized.

The Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometer peaks of α‐Fe2O3 depended on their hexagon, square and rhombic shapes.

Compared with hexagon‐shaped α‐Fe2O3, the Raman peaks for square and rhombi ones significantly shifted.

The hexagon‐shaped α‐Fe2O3 is relatively tolerant regarding the polarization properties.
Monocyte derived large extracellular vesicles in polytrauma
Authors: Wöhler Aliona , Gries Sabine K. , Salzmann Rebekka J. S. , Krötz Christina , Wang Bingduo , Müller Paula , Klein Angelina , Schmidt‐Wolf Ingo G. H. , Schaaf Sebastian , Schwab Robert , Lukacs‐Kornek Veronika , Willms Arnulf G. , Kornek Miroslaw T.
Published: September 2024

Despite significant progress in the medical field, there is still a pressing need for minimal‐invasive tools to assist with decision‐making, especially in cases of polytrauma. Our team explored the potential of serum‐derived large extracellular vesicles, so called microparticles/microvesicles/ectosomes, to serve as a supportive tool in decision‐making in polytrauma situations. We focused on whether monocyte derived large EVs may differentiate between polytrauma patients with internal organ injury (ISS > 15) and those without. Thus, we compared our EV data to soluble biomarkers such as tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) and Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8). From the blood of 25 healthy and 26 patients with polytrauma large EVs were isolated, purified, and characterized. TNF alpha and IL‐8 levels were quantified. We found that levels of these monocyte derived large EVs were significantly higher in polytrauma patients with internal organ damage and correlated with the ISS. Interestingly, we also observed a decline in AnnV+CD14+ large EVs during normal recovery after trauma. Thus, inflammatory serological markers as TNF alpha and as IL‐8 demonstrated an inability to discriminate between polytrauma patients with or without internal organ damage, such as spleen, kidney, or liver lacerations/ruptures. However, TNF and IL‐8 levels were elevated in polytrauma cases overall when contrasted with healthy non‐traumatic controls. These findings suggest that delving deeper into the potential of AnnV+ large EVs derived from monocytes could highly beneficial in the managment of polytrauma, potentially surpassing the efficacy of commonly used serum markers.
Exploring the Influence of Neomorphic Gekkotan Paraphalanges on Limb Modularity and Integration
Authors: Fratani Jessica , Fontanarrosa Gabriela , Duport‐Bru Ana Sofía , Russell Anthony
Published: September 2024

Digital specializations of geckos are widely associated with their climbing abilities. A recurring feature that has independently emerged within the sister families Gekkonidae and Phyllodactylidae is the presence of neomorphic paraphalanges (PPEs), usually paired, paraxial skeletal structures lying adjacent to interphalangeal and metapodial–phalangeal joints. The incorporation of PPEs into gekkotan autopodia has the potential to modify the modularity and integration of the ancestral limb pattern by affecting information flow among skeletal limb parts. Here we explore the influence of PPEs on limb organization using anatomical networks. We modeled the fore‐ and hindlimbs in species ancestrally devoid of PPEs (Iguana iguana and Gekko gecko) and paraphalanx‐bearing species (Hemidactylus mabouia and Uroplatus fimbriatus). To further clarify the impact of PPEs we also expunged PPEs from paraphalanx‐bearing network models. We found that PPEs significantly increase modularity, giving rise to tightly integrated sub‐modules along the digits, suggesting functional specialization. Species‐specific singularities also emerged, such as the trade‐off between the presence of PPEs favoring modularity (along the proximodistal axis) and the interdigital webbing favoring integration (across the lateromedial axis) in the limbs of U. fimbriatus. The PPEs are characterized by low connectivity compared with other skeletal elements; nevertheless, this varies based on their specific location and seemingly reflects developmental constraints. Our results also highlight the importance of the fifth metatarsal in generating a shift in lepidosaurian hindlimb polarity that contrasts with the more symmetrical bauplan of tetrapods. Our findings support extensive modification of the autopodial system in association with the addition of the neomorphic and intriguing PPEs.
Significance of serological atrophic gastritis on proton pump inhibitor prescriptions and referrals to gastroscopy in the general population
Authors: Persson Tor , Söderberg Stefan , Song Minkyo , Karling Pontus
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim

We aimed to investigate whether individuals with low pepsinogen I levels differed from those with normal pepsinogen I levels in terms of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) use, referral to gastroscopy, and findings on gastroscopy.

Methods

Serum pepsinogen I was measured in 518 persons (mean age 51.6, SD 8.8; 49% women). A medical chart review focused on PPI prescriptions and gastroscopic findings in the follow‐up period.

Results

Patients with serological atrophic gastritis (pepsinogen I < 28 μg/L) had higher body mass index (27.5 vs 26.2 kg/m2; P = 0.007), were less likely to be current smokers (8% vs 17%; P = 0.025), and had higher prevalence of Helicobacter pylori seropositivity (57% vs 36%; P < 0.001) compared with those without. During follow‐up (mean 21.4 years, SD 6.5 years), the patients with serological atrophic gastritis had more often findings of atrophic gastritis or gastric polyps on gastroscopy (20% vs 8%; P < 0.001), despite no differences in the mean number of gastroscopies per 1000 person‐years (33 vs 23; P = 0.19) and the mean prescribed PPI dose (omeprazole equivalents) per year (1064 mg vs 1046 mg; P = 0.95). Persons with serological atrophic gastritis had lower odds of being prescribed PPIs at least once (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.58 [0.35–0.96]), but there was no significant difference in the chance of being referred to gastroscopy at least once (1.15 [0.70–1.96]).

Conclusion

Persons with serological atrophic gastritis were less likely to be prescribed PPIs. Persons with serological atrophic gastritis had more often gastric polyps and atrophic gastritis when referred to gastroscopy.
Plasma vitamin D levels are correlated with the pathogenesis of human T‐cell leukemia virus type 1‐associated diseases
Authors: Sagara Yasuko , Nakamura Hitomi , Sagara Yasuhiro , Shitsuta Etsuko , Uchimaru Kaoru , Yamano Yoshihisa , Watanabe Toshiki , Miura Kiyonori , Matsuzaki Koji
Published: September 2024

The active form of vitamin D (VD) exerts hormonal effects by regulating the expression of genes involved in T‐cell activity, cell differentiation, and proliferation. Human T‐cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) is a causative agent of life‐threatening diseases, adult T‐cell leukemia (ATL) and HTLV‐1‐associated myelopathy (HAM). Among ATL patients, hypercalcemia is one of the most serious complications due to bone resorption. In this study, wild‐type mice administered UV‐irradiated HTLV‐1‐infected cells showed up to 47% decrease of plasma VD level compared with untreated mice. To clarify the effect of HTLV‐1 on plasma VD level, 315 samples registered in nationwide cohort study on ATL onset were measured. The VD level in HAM (14.98 ± 8.5 ng/mL) was significantly lower than those in asymptomatic carriers and ATL (p < 0.05). Upon comparing the VD levels in ATL stratified by disease subtypes, acute ATL showed a lower level (15.81 ± 12.0 ng/mL) than chronic and smoldering types (p < 0.05). In the longitudinal observation, VD levels were significantly higher in untreated spontaneous remission cases than in ATL progression cases, in which the VD levels decreased approximately 40% after onset. In cases of relapse after transplantation, the plasma VD level dropped to 38.7% of the pre‐relapse level, while in cases of complete remission, the VD level increased with improvement of the performance status. Taken together, these results suggest that plasma VD level is a potential indicator for the onset and relapse of HTLV‐1‐associated diseases.
Factors influencing prophylactic surgical intervention in women with genetic predisposition for breast cancer
Authors: Humar Pooja , Balogun Zainab , Douglas Nerone , Glenney Anne , Kass Nicolás M. , Moroni Elizabeth A. , Mai Phuong L. , Diego Emilia , De La Cruz Carolyn
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In the United States, 5%–10% of breast cancer cases are due to genetic predisposition. Among this population, prophylactic mastectomy is viable risk‐reducing option.

Objective

The objective of this study is to understand the timing to prophylactic mastectomy in patients with genetic predisposition to breast cancer and uncover factors influencing this decision.

Methods

This study is a retrospective review of patients diagnosed with genetic predisposition for breast cancer from 2010 to 2020.

Results

In a cohort of 506 patients with genetic predisposition for breast cancer, 154 (30.4%) underwent prophylactic mastectomy, the remainder opted for surveillance alone. The median time from diagnosis to mastectomy was 1.1 years (IQR, 0.5–3.1 years). During the surveillance period, 118 patients (33.5%) underwent breast biopsy. Of the patients with benign or atypical findings, 35 (36.8%) pursued prophylactic mastectomy, a median of 0.5 years (IQR, 0.2–1.6 years) after their gene diagnosis. The most common factor impacting the decision to undergo prophylactic mastectomy was having a family member with cancer (54.7%) followed by a personal diagnosis of other cancer(s) (27.5%).

Conclusion

Understanding the factors influencing the decision to undergo prophylactic surgery will allow for more effective shared decision‐making for primary care providers, breast surgeons, and reconstructive surgeons.
Nalbuphine, medetomidine, and azaperone use in free‐ranging American black bears and mountain lions in Wyoming
Authors: Hashem Brie , Van Wick Peach , Allen Samantha E.
Published: September 2024

Safe and effective chemical immobilization is a necessary component of large carnivore management and research, but laws regulating controlled substances can limit the use of many drugs by non‐veterinary personnel. NalMed‐A (40 mg/mL nalbuphine HCl, 10 mg/mL medetomidine HCl, 10 mg/mL azaperone tartrate) is a non‐controlled drug combination used to immobilize a number of free‐ranging species, but there are limited published reports of its usage by non‐veterinary personnel when immobilizing American black bears (Ursus americanus) and mountain lions (Puma concolor). Additionally, there are some safety concerns regarding anecdotal reports of spontaneous arousals occurring in large carnivores immobilized with NalMed‐A. We performed a retrospective analysis of capture forms for free‐ranging black bears (n = 34) and mountain lions (n = 7) immobilized with NalMed‐A by non‐veterinary personnel across Wyoming, USA, in 2017 and 2019–2024. Induction (x̅ ± SE) was 10.74 ± 1.16 minutes for black bears (n = 34) and 7.14 ± 1.60 for mountain lions (n = 7). Reversal was 14.21 ± 1.51 minutes for black bears (n = 28) and 10.00 ± 1.26 minutes for mountain lions (n = 5). We used non‐parametric tests (Kruskal‐Wallis, Wilcoxon rank sum) and odds ratios to examine the effect of certain parameters on induction times, redoses, and spontaneous arousals in black bears. Median induction time for black bears injected in their hind leg or rump was greater than for black bears injected in their shoulder (n = 34, W = 79.5, P = 0.045). Six black bears (18%) experienced spontaneous arousals. We recommend avoiding the hind leg and rump for dart placement in bears, and using hobbles and a muzzle for large carnivores when using NalMed‐A in a free‐ranging setting because of the risk of spontaneous arousals.