bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemically Generated Luminescence of Luminol and Luciferin in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Belotti Mattia , El‐Tahawy Mohsen M. T. , Darwish Nadim , Garavelli Marco , Ciampi Simone
Published: December 2022

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) is the generation of light triggered by an electrochemical reaction. ECL has been extensively studied in solvent‐based electrolytes, but there is a lack of data on using electrode reactions to populate an excited‐state light emitter in room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs). This work explores the current response, light intensity (photon counting), and spectral signatures of the cathodic ECL of luminol and firefly's luciferin in imidazolium‐based RTILs. We have demonstrated that the cathodic (superoxide‐triggered) ECL of both luminol and adenylate‐ester of firefly's luciferin is viable in RTILs, explored the effect of water contaminations, and importantly, shown that the ECL signal persists for up to about 700 s after the removal of the external cathodic pulse, which is probably due to the stabilization of superoxide by double‐layer cation‐rich structures. Long‐lived RTIL double‐layer structures and their endogenous fields are detected as stable and discrete open‐circuit potential plateaus.
Atomistic grain boundary migration in Al2O3
Authors: Feng Bin , Wei Jiake , Shibata Naoya , Ikuhara Yuichi
Published: December 2022

Grain boundary (GB) migration is one of the most important phenomena in materials science, which plays a key role in modifying the microstructures and properties of polycrystalline ceramic materials. Understanding how GB migrates is thus a fundamental and critical issue for future ceramic material design. While the understanding of GB atomic structures has evolved significantly over the past several decades due to the progress of atomic‐resolution electron microscopy and atomistic simulation, the understanding of the atomistic grain boundary migration is still lacking. The present article briefly reviews our recent progress on the direct observation of atomistic GB migration in ceramic material by atomic‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Using Al2O3 as a model material, we found that the atomistic GB migration proceeds with atom shuffling accompanied by GB structural change and/or nucleation of disconnection, which is highly dependent on the GB atomic structures.
Probing Peptidylprolyl Bond cis/trans Status Using Distal 19F NMR Reporters
Authors: Killoran Patrick M. , Hanson George S. M. , Verhoork Sanne J. M. , Smith Madeleine , Del Gobbo Davide , Lian Lu‐Yun , Coxon Christopher R.
Published: December 2022

A method for measuring peptidylprolyl bond cis‐trans conformational status in peptide models is described, using 4‐fluorophenylalanine (4FPhe) as a distal reporter for 19F NMR. The %cis‐Pro population was measured for peptides of the general structure Ac‐X‐Pro‐Z‐Ala‐Ala‐4FPhe (X and Z are proteinogenic amino acids) at pH 7.4, and provided conformational populations consistent with literature values obtained by more complex methods. This approach was applied to probe the prolyl bond status in pentapeptide models of the intrinsically disordered C‐terminal region of α‐synuclein, which mirrored the preferences in the Ac‐X‐Pro‐Z‐Ala‐4FPhe models. Advantageously, the 19F reporter group does not need to be adjacent to or attached to proline to provide quantifiable signals and distal 4‐fluorophenylalanines can be placed so as not to influence prolyl bond conformation. Finally, we demonstrated that the prolyl bond status is not significantly affected by pH when there are ionisable amino acid residues at the carboxyl side of proline, which makes 19F NMR an invaluable tool with which to study proline isomerism at a range of pHs and in different solvents and buffers.
Synthesis of a B‐Antigen Hexasaccharide, a B‐Lewis b Heptasaccharide and Glycoconjugates Thereof to Investigate Binding Properties of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Reihill Mark , Fournière Viviane , Cheallaigh Aisling Ní , Edlund Johan Olofsson , Miller Gavin John , Borén Thomas , Lahmann Martina , Oscarson Stefan
Published: December 2022

Infecting the stomach of almost 50 % of people, Helicobacter pylori is a causative agent of gastritis, peptic ulcers and stomach cancers. Interactions between bacterial membrane‐bound lectin, Blood group Antigen Binding Adhesin (BabA), and human blood group antigens are key in the initiation of infection. Herein, the synthesis of a B‐antigen hexasaccharide (B6) and a B‐Lewis b heptasaccharide (BLeb7) and Bovine Serum Albumin glycoconjugates thereof is reported to assess the binding properties and preferences of BabA from different strains. From a previously reported trisaccharide acceptor a versatile key Lacto‐N‐tetraose tetrasaccharide intermediate was synthesized, which allowed us to explore various routes to the final targets, either via initial introduction of fucosyl residues followed by introduction of the B‐determinant or vice versa. The first approach proved unsuccessful, whereas the second afforded the target structures in good yields. Protein conjugation using isothiocyanate methodology allowed us to reach high glycan loadings (up to 23 per protein) to mimic multivalent displays encountered in Nature. Protein glycoconjugate inhibition binding studies were performed with H. pylori strains displaying high or low affinity for Lewis b hexasaccharide structures showing that the binding to the high affinity strain was reduced due to the presence of the B‐determinant in the Bleb7‐conjugates and further reduced by the absence of the Lewis fucose residue in the B6‐conjugate.
ACHEMA 2022: Innovationen und Trends in der Trocknungstechnik
Authors: Ruprecht Nora Alina , Frank Jennifer , Raiber Tobias V. , Teichmann Heike , Gschwind Peter , Kohlus Reinhard
Published: December 2022

In diesem Beitrag werden die Highlights der auf der ACHEMA 2022 ausgestellten Neuerungen zusammengefasst und es wird über die beobachteten Trends berichtet. Neben neuen Anlagen in einzelnen Trocknungsbereichen wurden die Schritte der Firmen in den Bereichen der Schwerpunktthemen Digitalisierung und Nachhaltigkeit näher betrachtet.
Unweighted estimation based on optimal sample under measurement constraints
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang HaiYing , Xiong Shifeng
Published: December 2022

To tackle massive data, subsampling is a practical approach to select the more informative data points. However, when responses are expensive to measure, developing efficient subsampling schemes is challenging, and an optimal sampling approach under measurement constraints was developed to meet this challenge. This method uses the inverses of optimal sampling probabilities to reweight the objective function, which assigns smaller weights to the more important data points. Thus, the estimation efficiency of the resulting estimator can be improved. In this paper, we propose an unweighted estimating procedure based on optimal subsamples to obtain a more efficient estimator. We obtain the unconditional asymptotic distribution of the estimator via martingale techniques without conditioning on the pilot estimate, which has been less investigated in the existing subsampling literature. Both asymptotic results and numerical results show that the unweighted estimator is more efficient in parameter estimation.
Asymptotic distribution of one‐component partial least squares regression estimators in high dimensions
Authors: Basa Jerónimo , Cook R. Dennis , Forzani Liliana , Marcos Miguel
Published: December 2022

In a one‐component partial least squares fit of a linear regression model, we find the asymptotic normal distribution, as the sample size and number of predictors approach infinity, of a user‐selected univariate linear combination of the coefficient estimator and give corresponding asymptotic confidence and prediction intervals. Simulation studies and an analysis of a dopamine dataset are used to support our theoretical asymptotic results and their practical application.
Effect of Biochar and Hyper‐Thermal Inoculum Addition on Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon‐Degrading Bacteria during Composting
Authors: Zhang Qingjun , Zhu Tong , Wang Youzhao , Yao Sai , An Ning , Xiao Qingxiang
Published: December 2022

The effects of biochar and hyper‐thermal inoculum on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon‐degrading bacterial communities (PAHBC) during the livestock manure composting are studied here. The experiment is performed on composting of livestock manure and wheat straw amended with biochar and hyper‐thermal inoculum. Physicochemical properties, enzyme activity, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and microbial activities are monitored and the comprehensive assessment is analyzed during the composting process. The results show that the dominant phyla Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinomycetes that are potential PAH‐degrading bacterial community hosts are enriched. Meanwhile, the addition of biochar and hyper‐thermal inoculum enhances the abundance of PAHBC. Therefore, the biostimulation of biochar and hyper‐thermal inoculum could affect the frequency and composition of PAHBC.
Establishment of quantitative indicators for an efficient treatment on masticatory muscle pain
Authors: Lee Sunhee , Ju Hye‐Min , Ho Donald , Song Byong‐Sop , Jeong Sung‐Hee , Ahn Yong‐Woo , Ok Soo‐Min , Cheon Kyounga
Published: December 2022

Background

Although several studies have investigated effective treatments for masticatory muscle pain (MMP), no unified conclusion has been drawn regarding the effectiveness of these treatments.

Objectives

This study aimed to define quantitative indicators for predicting the outcome of MMP treatment.

Materials and Methods

In total, patients aged 20–70 years were recruited and divided into the MMP (n = 24) and control (n = 36) groups, based on the presence of MMP according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. At pretreatment, the MMP group was assessed using quantitative indicators such as subjective pain levels, pain duration, graded chronic pain scale (GCPS), and perceived stress scale (PSS). Salivary alpha‐amylase (sAA) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels were analyzed. The masticatory muscle palpation score and the range of mouth opening were measured. At posttreatment, subjective pain levels, mouth opening, and treatment/medication duration were examined. The PSS and sAA levels were assessed in the control group.

Results

sAA levels in the MMP group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < .05). The masseter muscle palpation score (MPS) showed a positive correlation with IL‐6 levels (ρ = 0.503, p < .05) and a negative correlation with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) treatment period (ρ = −0.462, p < .05). The temporalis muscle palpation score (TPS) was positively correlated with pain duration and GCPS grade (ρ = 0.483, p < .05, and ρ = 0.445, p < .05, respectively).

Conclusions

Treatment with NSAIDs was effective in the MMP group with high MPS and IL‐6 levels, but not in the MMP group with high TPS, pain duration, and GCPS grade.
Environmental tobacco smoke at home and in public places prior to smoking ban enforcement: Assessment by hair analysis in a population of young adult students
Authors: Roseren Claire , Binck Sylvia , Faÿs François , Ruiz‐Castell Maria , Samouda Hanen , Appenzeller Brice M. R.
Published: December 2022

Despite inititatives to reduce tobacco consumption, smoking remains a primary cause of death for both smokers and nonsmokers exposed to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). The characteristics of some specific groups can make them more exposed to ETS or limit the benefit of prevention measures. This study investigated determinants of ETS in a population of young adult students, considered at higher risk of exposure due to their specific lifestyle. This cross‐sectional study involved 90 students aged 20 ± 1.7 years, from the University of Luxembourg, prior to the smoking ban enforcement in public places in the country. Participants reported their tobacco consumption and exposure to ETS at home and/or in public places, and provided a hair sample analyzed for nicotine and cotinine. Nicotine and cotinine were significantly higher in smokers than in nonsmokers' hair in general (median: 2.6 vs. 0.9 ng/mg and 87.1 vs. 22.5 pg/mg respectively). However, nonsmokers exposed to ETS at home and in public places had comparable concentrations to smokers (nic = 2.2 ng/mg; cot = 56.2 pg/mg), whereas unexposed nonsmokers presented significantly lower values (nic = 0.4 ng/mg, cot = 8.5 pg/mg). Nonsmokers exposed to ETS only at home presented higher values than nonsmokers only exposed in public places (nic: 1.3 vs. 0.8 ng/mg, cot: 70.4 vs. 15.0 pg/mg). The study shows the widespread exposure to ETS in this population, the importance of exposure assessment, and the relevance of hair analysis for this purpose. Results suggest that ETS can lead to equivalent exposure to active smoking and that exposure at home can highly contribute to ETS, which is not solved by smoking ban in public places.
New gamma‐hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) biomarkers: Development and validation of a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of GHB amino acid, carnitine, and fatty acid conjugates in urine
Authors: Steuer Andrea E. , Sutter Linda , Steuer Christian , Kraemer Thomas
Published: December 2022

Gamma‐hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) represents an important drug in clinical and forensic toxicology, particularly in the context of drug‐facilitated crimes. Analytically, GHB remains a major challenge given its endogenous occurrence and short detection window. Previous studies identified a number of potential interesting novel conjugates of GHB with carnitine, amino acids (AA, glutamate, glycine, and taurine), or fatty acids. As a basis for comprehensive studies on the suitability of these novel biomarkers, we developed and validated a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method in human urine. Additionally, already known markers 2,4‐dihydroxy butyric acid (2,4‐DHB), 3,4‐DHB, glycolic acid, succinic acid, succinylcarnitine, and GHB glucuronide were included. The method was fully validated according to (inter)national guidelines. Synthetic urine proved suitable as a surrogate matrix for calibration. Matrix effects were observed for all analytes with suppression effects of about 50% at QC LOW, and approximately 20% to 40% at QC HIGH, but with consistent standard deviation of <25% at QC LOW and <15% at QC HIGH, respectively. All analytes showed acceptable intra‐ and inter‐day imprecision of below 20%, except for inter‐day variation of GHB taurine and FA conjugates at the lowest QC. Preliminary applicability studies proved the usefulness of the method and pointed towards GHB glycine, followed by other AA conjugates as the most promising candidates to improve GHB detection. FA conjugates were not detected in urine samples yet. The method can be used now for comprehensive sample analysis on (controlled) GHB administration to prove the usefulness of the novel GHB biomarkers.
Changes in plant community assembly from patchy degradation of grasslands and grazing by different‐sized herbivores
Authors: Song Yueqing , Xu Man , Xu Tongtong , Zhao Xuan , Yue Yonghuan , Yu Haoran , Zhang Minna , Wang Ling
Published: December 2022

Grassland degradation caused by increases in livestock grazing threatens a variety of ecosystem services. Understanding changes in plant community assembly during the process of grassland degradation in the presence of grazing is important to help restore degraded grasslands worldwide but has received little attention thus far. The grassland degradation process is typified by heterogeneous degradation, that is, gradual formation of degraded patches (hereafter “patchy degradation”). Here, we experimentally examined the effects of herbivore grazing and patchy degradation on plant community assembly using nine pairs of non‐degraded (intact) and patch‐degraded (fragmented) grasslands subject to grazing by different‐sized herbivores (i.e., NG, no grazing; SG, sheep grazing; CG, cattle grazing) over 4 years. Using a null‐model approach, we estimated the relative magnitude of deterministic processes of community assembly by comparing the observed and expected β‐diversity. We found that in the absence of herbivore grazing, deterministic processes played a greater role in community assembly, regardless of whether patchy degradation had occurred. However, the deterministic processes resulted in plant communities being more spatially similar in non‐degraded grasslands while being more dissimilar in patchy degraded grasslands. Compared with non‐degraded grasslands, species with strong competitive abilities (i.e., Leymus chinensis) were less dominant in patchy degraded grasslands, indicating relaxed competition and a reduced role of species interactions over plant communities. Instead, patchy degradation added the role of environmental variables over plant communities. SG consistently promoted more stochastic plant community assembly in both non‐degraded and patch‐degraded grasslands, while CG promoted more stochastic plant community assembly only in the non‐degraded state, having no effect in the patch‐degraded state. Our study offers important insights into changes in plant community assembly during ongoing patch‐degradation of grasslands, indicating the role of increased environmental filtering of soil and reduced species interactions in driving plant community dynamics with increasing grassland patchy degradation. We also uncovered an herbivore species‐specific effect on plant community assembly during the process of grassland degradation, which will better inform and improve future grassland restoration planning efforts.
Development of a brief cognitive‐behavioral treatment for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder in the context of disorders of gut–brain interaction: Initial feasibility, acceptability, and clinical outcomes
Authors: Burton Murray Helen , Weeks Imani , Becker Kendra R. , Ljótsson Brjánn , Madva Elizabeth N. , Eddy Kamryn T. , Staller Kyle , Kuo Braden , Thomas Jennifer J.
Published: December 2022

Background

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) symptoms are common (up to 40%) among adults with disorders of gut‐brain interaction (DGBI), but treatments for this population (DGBI + ARFID) have yet to be evaluated. We aimed to identify initial feasibility, acceptability, and clinical effects of an exposure‐based cognitive‐behavioral treatment (CBT) for adults with DGBI + ARFID.

Methods

Patients (N = 14) received CBT as part of routine care in an outpatient gastroenterology clinic. A two‐part investigation of the CBT included a retrospective evaluation of patients who were offered a flexible (8–10) session length and an observational prospective study of patients who were offered eight sessions. Feasibility benchmarks were ≥75% completion of sessions, quantitative measures (for treatment completers), and qualitative interviews. Acceptability was assessed with a benchmark of ≥70% patients reporting a posttreatment satisfaction scores ≥3 on 1–4 scale and with posttreatment qualitative interviews. Mixed model analysis explored signals of improvement in clinical outcomes.

Results

All feasibility and acceptability benchmarks were achieved (and qualitative feedback revealed high satisfaction with the treatment and outcomes). There were improvements in clinical outcomes across treatment (all p's < .0001) with large effects for ARFID fear (−52%; Hedge's g = 1.5; 95% CI = 0.6, 2.5) and gastrointestinal‐specific anxiety (−42%; Hedge's g = 1.0; 95% CI = 0.5, 16). Among those who needed to gain weight (n = 10), 94%–103% of expected weight gain goals were achieved.

Discussion

Initial development and testing of a brief 8‐session CBT protocol for DGBI + ARFID showed high feasibility, acceptability, and promising clinical improvements. Findings will inform an NIH Stage 1B randomized control trial.

Public significance

While cognitive‐behavioral treatments (CBTs) for ARFID have been created in outpatient feeding and eating disorder clinics, they have yet to be developed and refined for other clinic settings or populations. In line with the recommendations for behavioral treatment development, we conducted a two‐part investigation of an exposure‐based CBT for a patient population with high rates of ARFID—adults with disorders of gut–brain interaction (also known as functional gastrointestinal disorders). We found patients had high satisfaction with treatment and there were promising improvements for both gastrointestinal and ARFID outcomes. The refined treatment includes eight sessions delivered by a behavioral health care provider and the findings reported in this article will be studied next in an NIH Stage 1B randomized controlled trial.
Environmental and anthropogenic features mediate risk from human hunters and wolves for moose
Authors: Ausilio G. , Wikenros C. , Sand H. , Wabakken P. , Eriksen A. , Zimmermann B.
Published: December 2022

Landscape characteristics, seasonal changes in the environment, and daylight conditions influence space use and detection of prey and predators, resulting in spatiotemporal patterns of predation risk for the prey. When predators have different hunting modes, the combined effects of multiple predators are mediated by the physical landscape and can result in overlapping or contrasting patterns of predation risk. Humans have become super‐predators in many anthropogenic landscapes by harvesting game species and competing with large carnivores for prey. Here, we used the locations of wolf (Canis lupus)‐killed and hunter‐killed moose (Alces alces) in south‐central Scandinavia to investigate whether environmental and anthropogenic features influenced where wolves and hunters killed moose. We predicted that the combined effects of wolves and hunters would result in contrasting spatial risk patterns due to differences in hunting modes. We expected these contrasting spatial risk patterns also to differ temporally. During the hunting season, the probability of a wolf kill increased with distance to bogs, whereas it decreased with increasing building density and distance to clearcuts and young forests. After the hunting season, the probability of a wolf kill increased with increasing terrain ruggedness and decreased with increasing building density, distance to main roads, and distance to clearcuts and young forests. The probability of a hunter kill was highest closer to bogs, main and secondary roads, in less rugged terrain and in areas with lower building density. Hunters killed all moose during the day, whereas wolves killed most moose at night during and after the hunting season. Our findings suggest that environmental and anthropogenic features mediate hunting and wolf predation risk. Additionally, we found that hunter‐ and wolf‐killed moose exhibited contrasting spatial associations to landscape features, most likely due to the different hunting modes displayed by hunters and wolves. However, wolf predation and hunting risks also contrasted over time since wolves killed mostly at night and hunters were restricted to hunting during daytime and during the hunting season. This temporal segregation in risk might therefore suggest that moose could minimize risk exposure by taking advantage of spatiotemporally vacant hunting domains.
A higher DNA damage rate in aqueous eDNA particles suggests intra‐cellular eDNA degradation in cellular environments
Authors: Jo Toshiaki S.
Published: December 2022

A higher DNA quality in an environmental DNA (eDNA) sample is crucial for the improved and precise assessment of biodiversity via eDNA analysis. However, the frequency of damage of DNA molecules released from macro‐organisms in aquatic environments remains unclear. As a proof of concept, the rate of DNA damage (λ; per base pair) in an eDNA sample was estimated by measuring the quantity of target DNA with different fragment lengths using quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR). Rearing water was collected from tanks housing zebrafish (Danio rerio) using filters with different pore sizes ranging from 0.2 to 10 μm, multiple fragment lengths of their mitochondrial eDNA concentrations were quantified and estimated the DNA damage rate based on an exponential relationship between target DNA concentrations and DNA fragment lengths. The DNA damage rate in zebrafish eDNA particles was higher for larger pore size filters, implying that cell membranes do not necessarily protect intra‐cellular DNA from degradation and high activity of intra‐cellular DNases actively degrades intra‐cellular eDNA molecules. Moreover, this finding may partly account for the apparently shorter persistence of larger eDNA particles in aquatic environments and the initial rapid decay of eDNA fragments in a biphasic degradation process. Additional field studies are required to investigate the frequency of DNA damage in different eDNA size fractions and states to facilitate the efficient collection of population genetic information on aquatic macro‐organisms from environmental samples.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Functionalized 1,3‐Enynes through Recyclable Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Three‐Component Reaction of Terminal Alkynes, Diazoesters and Aldehydes
Authors: Ye Qian , Liao Yang , Luo Chengkai , Cai Mingzhong
Published: December 2022

A highly efficient heterogeneous copper(I)‐catalyzed three‐component coupling of terminal alkynes, diazoesters and aldehydes has been achieved by using 10 mol% of copper(I) iodide complex [N,N‐CuI‐MCM‐41] anchored on 2‐aminoethylamino‐modified mesoporous material MCM‐41 as the catalyst under mild conditions, delivering a wide variety of 2‐alkoxycarbonyl‐substituted (E)‐1,3‐enynes in mostly good to high yields with excellent stereoselectivity. The heterogenized copper(I) complex can be facilely prepared from inexpensive reagents by using a simple procedure and exhibits a remarkably higher catalytic activity than CuI, and can be recycled more than ten times without a significant drop in its catalytic efficiency. This protocol represents the first example of heterogeneous copper‐catalyzed stereoselective construction of functionalized 1,3‐enynes from simple and commercially available starting materials.
Accumulation of long‐term diseases is associated with musculoskeletal pain dimensions among middle‐aged individuals with musculoskeletal pain
Authors: Heikkala Eveliina , Oura Petteri , Ho Emma , Ferreira Paulo , Paananen Markus , Karppinen Jaro
Published: December 2022

Background

Long‐term diseases often co‐occur with musculoskeletal (MSK) pain. In middle‐aged individuals with MSK pain, it remains unclear whether an accumulation (two or more) of long‐term diseases is associated with MSK pain dimensions, including pain frequency, bothersomeness of pain, pain intensity and number of pain sites.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included data from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 collected in 2012–2014 when the participants were 46 years of age. We included participants who reported having MSK pain during the previous year (collected retrospectively) and provided self‐reported information related to MSK pain dimensions, long‐term diseases and potential confounders (n = 4469). The association between long‐term diseases and pain dimensions was modelled by general linear and logistic regression models, with beta (β) coefficients, odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) being presented. Unadjusted models were followed by models adjusted for sex, educational level and smoking.

Results

The presence of accumulated long‐term diseases was associated with over two‐fold higher odds of daily pain (adjusted OR 2.6, 95% CI 2.0–3.4) and significantly higher levels of bothersomeness of pain and pain intensity (adjusted β 1.1, 95% CI 0.9–1.4; adjusted β 1.0, 95% CI 0.8–1.1, respectively), relative to the absence of long‐term diseases. Females with accumulated long‐term diseases had a stronger relationship to number of pain sites than males. Associations between one long‐term disease and pain dimensions were significant but smaller in magnitude.

Conclusion

There is a need for a better understanding of the relationships between accumulated long‐term diseases and MSK pain.

Significance

This study on middle‐aged individuals with musculoskeletal pain showed that the presence of long‐term diseases was clearly associated with pain frequency, bothersomeness of pain, pain intensity and number of pain sites. Compared with no long‐term diseases, the association between accumulated (two or more) long‐term diseases and pain dimensions was stronger than the association between one long‐term disease and pain dimensions.
Development of a low‐cost hydrogel microextrusion printer based on a Kossel delta 3D printer platform
Authors: Fanucci Sidne , Prinsloo Earl
Published: December 2022

The core of bioprinting related research aims to reduce the gap between ex vivo cell cultures and in vivo cellular tissue models to further its application within the biomedical field. While additive manufacturing is touted as disruptive technology, bioprinter equipment costs exceed limited resource budgets of many research laboratories restricting the scope for further development for biomedical research and potential medical application. In line with this, a relatively low‐cost bioprinter (SidneV1, SV1) was successfully designed and manufactured using a low‐cost, commercially available FDM Delta 3D printer as a prototype base with a successfully custom designed and manufactured micro‐extrusion printhead. Printing accuracies assessed were 65% (for width measurements) and 64% (for height measurements). This study aimed to demonstrate a way to achieve low‐cost cell‐free hydrogel printing and establish the basis for future system modifications and refinements such that this technology becomes more accessible to under‐funded research groups in resource limited laboratories globally. Optimization of printing parameters, hydrogel and formulations and sterilization techniques will allow for the patterning and engineering of three‐dimensional macroscale scaffolds using this low‐cost printing technology.
circPVT1andPVT1/AKT3show a role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and tumor subtype‐definition in small cell lung cancer
Authors: Tolomeo Doron , Traversa Debora , Venuto Santina , Ebbesen Karoline K. , García Rodríguez Juan L. , Tamma Grazia , Ranieri Marianna , Simonetti Giorgia , Ghetti Martina , Paganelli Matteo , Visci Grazia , Liso Arcangelo , Kok Klaas , Muscarella Lucia Anna , Fabrizio Federico Pio , Frassanito Maria Antonia , Lamanuzzi Aurelia , Saltarella Ilaria , Solimando Antonio Giovanni , Fatica Alessandro , Ianniello Zaira , Marsano René Massimiliano , Palazzo Antonio , Azzariti Amalia , Longo Vito , Tommasi Stefania , Galetta Domenico , Catino Annamaria , Zito Alfredo , Mazza Tommaso , Napoli Alessandro , Martinelli Giovanni , Kjems Jørgen , Kristensen Lasse Sommer , Vacca Angelo , Storlazzi Clelia Tiziana
Published: December 2022

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is treated as a homogeneous disease, although the expression of NEUROD1, ASCL1, POU2F3, and YAP1 identifies distinct molecular subtypes. TheMYConcogene, amplified in SCLC, was recently shown to act as a lineage‐specific factor to associate subtypes with histological classes. Indeed,MYC‐driven SCLCs show a distinct metabolic profile and drug sensitivity. To disentangle their molecular features, we focused on the co‐amplifiedPVT1, frequently overexpressed and originating circular (circRNA) and chimeric RNAs. We analyzed hsa_circ_0001821 (circPVT1) andPVT1/AKT3(chimPVT1) as examples of such transcripts, respectively, to unveil their tumorigenic contribution to SCLC. In detail, circPVT1 activated a pro‐proliferative and anti‐apoptotic program when over‐expressed in lung cells, and knockdown of chimPVT1 induced a decrease in cell growth and an increase of apoptosis in SCLC in vitro. Moreover, the investigatedPVT1transcripts underlined a functional connection between MYC and YAP1/POU2F3, suggesting that they contribute to the transcriptional landscape associated withMYCamplification. In conclusion, we have uncovered a functional role of circular and chimericPVT1transcripts in SCLC; these entities may prove useful as novel biomarkers inMYC‐amplified tumors.
Intrathyroidal parathyroid adenomas: Scoping review on clinical presentation, preoperative localization, and surgical treatment
Authors: Gowrishankar Shravan V. , Bidaye Rohan , Das Tilak , Majcher Veronika , Fish Brian , Casey Ruth , Masterson Liam
Published: December 2022

Intrathyroidal parathyroid adenomas (IPAs) are a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism. They are often difficult to localize preoperatively and intraoperatively, making diagnosis and treatment challenging. Current data on IPAs are sparse and fragmented in the literature. This makes it difficult to compare the effectiveness of different imaging and surgical techniques. To address this issue, this scoping review maps the literature on IPAs, focusing on four domains: clinical presentation, current localization methods, different surgical techniques, and histopathological features. A search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted, with 19 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. The characteristics of IPAs on ultrasound, fine‐needle aspiration, CT, MRI, sestamibi‐based techniques, and selective venous sampling are summarized. Emerging imaging modalities, including autofluorescence, are introduced. Surgical methods and intraoperative factors that correlate with high success rates for removal are highlighted. This review also identifies gaps in knowledge to guide further research into this area.
Chemotherapy in advanced pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma: A retrospective multicenter AGEO study
Authors: Auvray Kuentz Marie , Hautefeuille Vincent , de Mestier Louis , Coutzac Clélia , Lecomte Thierry , Nardon Victor , Artru Pascal , Turpin Anthony , Drouillard Antoine , Malka David , Tran‐Minh My‐Linh , Trouilloud Isabelle , Lièvre Astrid , Williet Nicolas , Pernot Simon , Touchefeu Yann , Taieb Julien , Hammel Pascal , Zaanan Aziz
Published: December 2022

Pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma (PASC) account for <5% of pancreatic malignancies. The efficacy of modern chemotherapy regimens in patients with advanced PASC is unknown. Patients with advanced PASC from 2008 to 2021 were consecutively included in this retrospective multicenter study. Overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were evaluated by Kaplan‐Meier method. Ninety‐four PASC from 16 French centers were included (median age, 67.3 years; males, 56.4%; metastatic disease, 85.1%). The first‐line treatment was chemotherapy for 79 patients (84.0%) (37 FOLFIRINOX (FX), 7 Gemcitabine‐nab paclitaxel (GN) and 35 for all other regimen) or best supportive care (BSC) alone for 15 patients (16.0%). No significant difference was observed between FX and GN in terms of PFS (P = .67) or OS (P = .5). Modern regimens pooled together (FX and GN) as compared to all others chemotherapy regimens showed an improvement of overall response rate (39.5% and 9.7%, P = .002), PFS (median, 7.8 vs 4.7 months, P = .02) and OS (median, 12.7 vs 9.2 months, P = .35). This large study evaluating first‐line treatment regimens in advanced PASC suggests that modern regimens as FX or GN may be preferable to all other chemotherapy regimens. These results deserve confirmation in prospective studies.
Incidence and mortality trends in gastric cancer in the United States, 1992‐2019
Authors: Chen Mengding , Chen Ke , Hou Huanan , Li Wanjing , Wang Xiaoshan , Dao Qianze , Wang Zhengguang
Published: December 2022

Our study aimed to estimate the epidemiological trends of gastric cancer in the United States from 1992 to 2019. This population‐based study used the US Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results‐12 database as a fundamental cohort to analyze gastric cancer incidence, incidence‐based mortality (IBM), overall survival (OS) and cancer‐specific survival (CSS) probabilities from 1992 to 2019. The Global Burden of Disease study (1990‐2018) was used as a likely validation cohort. Age‐period‐cohort analyses were performed to explore the underlying causes of trend changes. We found that the incidence rate of gastric cancer decreased from 1992 to 2019. IBM also decreased significantly from 1997 to 2019. The 3‐year OS and CSS of gastric cancer increased from 22.3% to 28.7% and 25.7% to 33.5%, respectively. However, the proportion of distant gastric cancer cases had unexpectedly increased rapidly from 33.1% in 1992 to 44.7% in 2019. Age‐period‐cohort modeling found that the incidence and IBM rates remained stable in the groups aged below 50 years, while that in all age groups older than 50 years showed a significant downward trend. High incidence and mortality risks were observed in the younger birth cohorts (birth year after 1990). To conclude, we observed a decline in incidence and mortality rates of gastric cancer in the United States in the past decades. We determined that progression of primary and tertiary preventive measures is the main reason for the reduction in the disease burden of gastric cancer. However, secondary preventive measures for gastric cancer still need to be strengthened.
Advanced strategic constructions of diketopyrrolopyrrole derivatives‐based organic semiconducting phototheranostics
Authors: Wang Bo , Hu Xiaoming , Sun Fengwei , Yang Zhen , Huang Wei
Published: December 2022

Phototheranostics as an advanced approach involved in exogenous light‐mediated diagnosis and treatment techniques has attracted broad attention in interdisciplinary biomedical applications. Over the years, deep‐tissue and high‐resolution imaging techniques, such as second near‐infrared (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) fluorescence imaging and photoacoustic imaging, are deemed to be dramatically promising diagnostic approaches. In addition, photonic relevant treatments containing photothermal and photodynamic therapy show great superiorities owing to its high spatiotemporal selectivity and minimal invasiveness. Due to the unique chemical and photophysical properties of diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP), its derivatives are studied for precision phototheranostics. In this review, the recent progress of DPP agents in the molecular design and biological application for advanced phototheranostics was highlighted, focusing on advanced phototheranostics, such as photoactivated theranostics, tumor microenvironment‐activated theranostics, and hypoxia‐tolerant phototheranostics. In general, this review provides meaningful and directive references for molecular design of phototheranostic platforms in advanced biomedical research.
Boscalid shows increased thyroxin‐glucuronidation in rat but not in human hepatocytes in vitro
Authors: Wiemann Christiane , Melching‐Kollmuss Stephanie , Hambruch Nina , Wiss Lucille , Stauber Franz , Richert Lysiane
Published: December 2022

The fungicide boscalid induces thyroid histopathological and hormone effects in the rat, secondary to liver enzyme induction. To assess the human relevance of liver enzyme induction presumably leading to thyroid hormone disruption, a species comparative in vitro study on T4‐glucuronidation was conducted. Currently, no guidelines how to evaluate Phase II induction are in place. Therefore, we investigated the optimal conditions to evaluate Phase I and Phase II induction potential of boscalid in primary rat (PRH) and human (PHH) hepatocytes. Endpoints included mRNA gene expression and enzyme activities (cytochrome P450 isozymes [CYPs] and uridine diphosphate‐glucuronosyltransferases [UGTs]), measured after 3 (D3) and 7 (D7) days of exposure to reference compounds and to 5, 10, and 20 μM boscalid, focusing on T4‐glucuronidation. Basal CYP activities and T4 glucuronidation were similar or higher on D7 than D3. The highest induction responses of CYPs were on D3, whereas UGT induction and T4‐glucuronidation increases were highest on D7. Boscalid induced CYP1A, CYP2B, and CYP3A mRNA and/or increased related activities in PRH and PHH. Species differences in the induction pattern of UGT genes by reference inducers (ß‐naphthoflavone [BNF], 5‐pregnen‐3ß‐ol‐20‐one‐16α‐carbonitirile [PCN], rifampicin [RIF], and phenobarbital [PB]) and boscalid were seen: UGT1A1, UGT1A3, and UGT1A9 were predominantly induced in PHH, while UGT2B1 was predominantly induced in PRH. Basal activity levels for T4‐glucuronidation were very low in humans and an order of magnitude higher in rat, for this reason increases in activities were assessed as delta activity to the control. Significant increases in T4‐glucuronidation occurred with boscalid in rat but not in human hepatocytes.
The G protein‐coupled receptor ligand apelin‐13 ameliorates skeletal muscle atrophy induced by chronic kidney disease
Authors: Enoki Yuki , Nagai Tomoya , Hamamura Yuna , Osa Sumika , Nakamura Hideaki , Taguchi Kazuaki , Watanabe Hiroshi , Maruyama Toru , Matsumoto Kazuaki
Published: December 2022

Background

Targeting of the apelin–apelin receptor (Apj) system may serve as a useful therapeutic intervention for the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD)‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy. We investigated the roles and efficacy of the apelin–Apj system in CKD‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy.

Methods

The 5/6‐nephrectomized mice were used as CKD models. AST‐120, a charcoal adsorbent of uraemic toxins (8 w/w% in diet), or apelin (1 μmol/kg) was administered to CKD mice to investigate the mechanism and therapeutic potential of apelin on CKD‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy. The effect of indoxyl sulfate, a uraemic toxin, or apelin on skeletal muscle atrophy was evaluated using mouse myoblast cells (C2C12 cells) in vitro.

Results

Skeletal muscle atrophy developed over time following nephrectomy at 12 weeks, as confirmed by a significant increase of atrogin‐1 and myostatin mRNA expression in the gastrocnemius (GA) muscle and a decrease of lower limb skeletal muscle weight (P < 0.05, 0.01 and 0.05, respectively). Apelin expression in GA muscle was significantly decreased (P < 0.05) and elabela, another Apj endogenous ligand, tended to show a non‐significant decrease at 12 weeks after nephrectomy. Administration of AST‐120 inhibited the decline of muscle weight and increase of atrogin‐1 and myostatin expression. Apelin and elabela expression was slightly improved by AST‐120 administration but Apj expression was not, suggesting the involvement of uraemic toxins in endogenous Apj ligand expression. The administration of apelin at 1.0 μmol/kg for 4 weeks to CKD mice suppressed the increase of atrogin‐1 and myostatin, increased apelin and Apj mRNA expression at 30 min after apelin administration and significantly ameliorated weight loss and a decrease of the cross‐sectional area of hindlimb skeletal muscle.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated for the first time the association of the Apj endogenous ligand–uraemic toxin axis with skeletal muscle atrophy in CKD and the utility of therapeutic targeting of the apelin–Apj system.
Hyperbolic discounting and exponentiated demand: Modeling demand for cigarettes in three dimensions
Authors: Rzeszutek Mark J. , Kaplan Brent A. , Traxler Haily K. , Franck Christopher T. , Koffarnus Mikhail N.
Published: December 2022

Behavioral economics has been a fruitful area of research in substance use. Mathematical descriptions of how individuals temporally discount the value of a commodity have been correlated with substance use and mathematical descriptions of drug consumption decreasing as a function of price (i.e., demand) predict maladaptive substance use. While there is a logical assumption that temporal factors affect demand for a drug, little has been done to merge these models. Thus, the purpose of this study was to combine models of discounting and demand, extending Howard Rachlin's work and contributions to novel areas of study. Data from 85 participants from Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) who completed a hypothetical cigarette purchase task that included price of and delay to cigarettes were analyzed. Multilevel modeling was used to determine descriptive accuracy of combined additive and multiplicative models of discounting and demand. Of the discounting models used in conjunction with the exponentiated demand equation, the Rachlin hyperboloid best described the delay dimension of consumption. The multiplicative version of the Rachlin equation applied to both delay and price outperformed other models tested. Therefore, existing models of discounting and demand can be extended to modeling consumption data from complex multidimensional experimental arrangements.
Developing transdisciplinarity in first‐year engineering
Authors: Tembrevilla Gerald , Nesbit Susan , Ellis Naoko , Ostafichuk Peter
Published: December 2022

Background

For engineers who aim to address sustainability challenges, participating in transdisciplinary teams is key. Yet developing transdisciplinary knowledge, including systems thinking, metacognition, and empathic thinking, is not well supported in traditional engineering programs.

Purpose

The extent to which selected learning activities in the introduction to engineering courses support student development of systems thinking, metacognition, and empathic thinking is investigated.

Design/Method

Focus group discussions with instructional teams and student interviews are examined to elucidate how course activities improved student transdisciplinary knowledge. Threshold concepts frame the qualitative analysis of the collected data. Implications for teaching and learning are discussed.

Findings

Results suggest the investigated learning activities support student development of transdisciplinary knowledge as indicated by changes in systems thinking, metacognition, and empathic thinking. Where prior quantitative exploratory studies revealed little change in transdisciplinary knowledge indicators pre‐ and post‐course, deeper qualitative analysis uncovers students manifested improvements in transdisciplinary knowledge indicators as narrated by the students themselves and as observed by instructors and teaching assistants.

Conclusions

Integrating transdisciplinary knowledge development into engineering programs, starting with appropriate learning activities in first‐year engineering courses, may provide new pathways for transforming curricula aimed at educating the 21st‐century engineer.