bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Winning applicants and influencing job seekers: An introduction to the special issue on employer branding and talent acquisition
Authors: Yu Kang Yang Trevor , Dineen Brian R. , Allen David G. , Klotz Anthony C.
Published: September 2022

This article introduces the special issue in Human Resource Management featuring employer branding and talent acquisition. We provide a brief history of talent acquisition and introduce an employer branding approach to this process, especially emphasizing the potential of this approach for building competitive advantage. The challenges of employer branding on social media in the digital age are also highlighted. We then introduce the five papers contained in this issue, each representing a variety of levels of analysis, theoretical perspectives, environmental contexts, and methodological and design approaches to scholarly investigations on this topic. Our introduction concludes with a list of research questions characterizing an agenda for future research based aroundthe themes of (i) macro contextual effects; (ii) strategic employer branding; (iii) psychology and processing of employer brands; (iv) role the time; and (v) methods and approaches.
Use of geostatistical models to evaluate landscape and stream network controls on post‐fire stream nitrate concentrations
Authors: Rhea Allison E. , Covino Timothy P. , Rhoades Charles C. , Brooks Alexander C.
Published: September 2022

Forested watersheds provide many ecosystem services, such as the filtration of sediment, pollutants, and nutrients, which are increasingly threatened by wildfire. For example, stream nutrient concentrations often increase following wildfire and can remain elevated for decades, making downstream waters susceptible to eutrophication. We investigated the drivers of persistent elevated stream nutrients, specifically nitrate (NO3−), in nine watersheds that were burned 16 years prior by the Hayman fire, Colorado, USA. We evaluated the ability of multiple linear regression and spatial stream network modeling approaches to predict observed concentrations of the biologically active solute NO3− and the conservative solute sodium (Na+) which serves as a partial control. Specifically, we quantified the degree to which landscape and stream network characteristics predict stream solute concentrations. Stream Na+ exhibited strong spatial autocorrelation that was primarily controlled by topography and hydrology. In contrast, stream NO3− had higher spatial variability and was inversely correlated to vegetation cover, measured as mean normalized differenced moisture index (NDMI). Spatially heterogeneous wildfire behaviour left intact forest patches interspersed with high burn severity patches dominated by shrubs and grasses which contributes to the spatial variability in stream NO3− concentrations. Post‐fire vegetation also interacts with watershed structure to influence stream NO3− patterns. For example, severely burned convergent hillslopes in headwaters positions were associated with the highest stream NO3− concentrations due to the high proportional influence of hillslope water in these locations. Our findings suggest that targeted reforestation in severely burned convergent hillslopes in headwater positions may enhance the recovery of stream NO3− concentrations to pre‐fire levels.
FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine/nab‐paclitaxel in advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A novel validated prognostic score to facilitate treatment decision‐making in real‐world
Authors: Marschner Norbert , Hegewisch‐Becker Susanna , Reiser Marcel , von der Heyde Eyck , Bertram Mathias , Hollerbach Stephan H. , Kreher Stephan , Wolf Thomas , Binninger Adrian , Chiabudini Marco , Kaiser‐Osterhues Anja , Jänicke Martina ,   The TPK‐Group (Tumour Registry Pancreatic Cancer)
Published: September 2022

There is no prospective, randomised head‐to‐head trial comparing first‐line FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine/nab‐paclitaxel in advanced pancreatic cancer. We assess real‐world effectiveness and quality of life (QoL) of both regimens using a new prognostic score. This analysis includes 1540 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer from the prospective, clinical cohort study Tumour Registry Pancreatic Cancer separated into learning (n = 1027) and validation sample (n = 513). The Pancreatic Cancer Score (PCS) was developed using multivariate Cox regression. We compared overall survival (OS) and time to deterioration (TTD) for longitudinal QoL between first‐line FOLFIRINOX (n = 407) and gemcitabine/nab‐paclitaxel (n = 655) according to patients' prognostic risk, after inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) by propensity score analysis. The PCS includes nine independent prognostic factors for survival: female sex, BMI ≥24/unknown, ECOG performance status ≥1, Charlson comorbidity index ≥1, tumour staging IV/unknown at primary diagnosis, liver metastases, bilirubin >1.5× upper limit of normal (ULN), leukocytes >ULN and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio ≥4. Median OS of the validation sample was 11.4 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.4‐14.4), 8.5 (95% CI: 6.8‐9.6) and 5.9 months (95% CI: 4.0‐7.4) for favourable‐ (0‐3 risk factors), intermediate‐ (4‐5 factors) and poor‐risk group (6‐9 factors), respectively. After IPTW, only poor‐risk patients had significantly longer median OS and TTD of overall QoL with FOLFIRINOX (OS: 6.9 months, 95% CI: 3.9‐13.3; TTD: 10.6 months, 95% CI: 2.0‐14.1) vs gemcitabine/nab‐paclitaxel (OS: 4.0 months, 95% CI: 2.8‐4.8; TTD: 4.1 months, 95% CI: 2.4‐4.5). Our novel PCS may facilitate treatment decisions in clinical routine of advanced pancreatic cancer, since only poor‐risk, but not favourable‐risk patients, seem to benefit from intensified treatment with FOLFIRINOX.
Abnormal uterine artery Doppler ultrasound during gestational 21–23 weeks associated with pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Li Meng , Yue Chaoyan
Published: September 2022

Objective

To assess whether abnormal uterine artery Doppler ultrasound during weeks 21–23 of pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

Our retrospective cohort study analyzed uterine artery ultrasound parameters in singleton pregnant women at 21–23 weeks of pregnancy and assessed the association between abnormal ultrasound findings and the risk of pre‐eclampsia. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to estimate the relative risk between uterine artery ultrasound and pre‐eclampsia.

Results

Compared with normal results, unilateral pulsatile index abnormality (odds ratio [OR] 2.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.71–3.10), bilateral pulsatile index anomalies (OR 6.21, 95% CI 3.53–10.95), unilateral resistance index abnormality (OR 2.36, 95% CI 1.75–3.17), bilateral resistance index anomalies (OR 2.83, 95% CI 1.27–6.32), unilateral notch (OR 3.66, 95% CI 2.03–6.62), bilateral notch (OR 5.80, 95% CI 3.30–10.20) were associated with pre‐eclampsia. For every 0.1 increase in the median multiple of mean pulsatile index, the risk of pre‐eclampsia increased by 13%; for every 0.1 increase in the median multiple of mean resistance index, the risk of pre‐eclampsia increased by 22%.

Conclusion

Multiples of the median for the pulsatile and resistance indices are an effective evaluation tool. Abnormal uterine artery ultrasound indices are strongly associated with the development of pre‐eclampsia.
Factorization‐based active contour segmentation and pelican optimization‐based modified bidirectional long short‐term memory for ovarian tumor detection
Authors: Jeya Sundari M. , Brintha N. C.
Published: September 2022

This paper proposes a novel three‐dimensional convolution neural network‐based modified bidirectional long short‐term memory with pelican optimization (3D CNN based MBiLSTM with PO) algorithm for multiclass ovarian tumor detection. Initially, the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting endometrial cancer dataset images are provided in pre‐processing phase, which uses a pre‐emphasis filter to process the input image. In the segmentation phase, pre‐processed data is then partitioned into diverse subgroups (i.e., pixels), which minimizes the complexity of images. In this paper, a factorization‐based active contour technique is employed in the effective segmentation of images. The segmented features are then extracted and classified using the 3D CNN‐MBiLSTM with PO algorithm. Finally, the experimental results are conducted and compared with various other approaches for various performance metrics. Each metric is evaluated with respect to the different number of iterations. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity have reached a higher value of 98.5%, 96%, and 98.25%, respectively.
Steviol glycosides affect functional properties and macromolecular expression of breast cancer cells
Authors: Velesiotis Christos , Kanellakis Marinos , Vynios Demitrios H.
Published: September 2022

Steviol glycosides, the active sweet components of stevia plant, have been recently found to possess a number of therapeutic properties, including some recorded anticancer ones against various cancer cell types (breast, ovarian, cervical, pancreatic, and colon cancer). Our aim was to investigate this anticancer potential on the two most commonly used breast cancer cell lines which differ in the phenotype and estrogen receptor (ER) status: the low metastatic, ERα+ MCF‐7 and the highly metastatic, ERα−/ERβ+ MDA‐MB‐231. Specifically, glycosides' effect was studied on cancer cells': (a) viability, (b) functionality (proliferation, migration, and adhesion), and (c) gene expression (mRNA level) of crucial molecules implicated in cancer's pathophysiology. Results showed that steviol glycosides induced cell death in both cell lines, in the first 24 hr, which was in line with the antiapoptotic BCL2 decrease. However, cells that managed to survive showcased diametrically opposite behavior. The low metastatic ERα+ MCF‐7 cells acquired an aggressive phenotype, depicted by the upregulation of all receptors and co‐receptors (ESR, PGR, AR, GPER1, EGFR, IGF1R, CD44, SDC2, and SDC4), as well as VIM and MMP14. On the contrary, the highly metastatic ERα−/ERβ+ MDA‐MB‐231 cells became less aggressive as pointed out by the respective downregulation of EGFR, IGF1R, CD44, and SDC2. Changes observed in gene expression were compatible with altered cell functions. Glycosides increased MCF‐7 cells migration and adhesion, but reduced MDA‐MB‐231 cells migratory and metastatic potential. In conclusion, the above data clearly demonstrate that steviol glycosides have different effects on breast cancer cells according to their ER status, suggesting that steviol glycosides might be examined for their potential anticancer activity against breast cancer, especially triple negative breast cancer (TNBC).
Low‐power compact continuous‐wave stimulated emission depletion microscopy
Authors: Han HongYi , Wang Luwei , Zhou Hanqiu , Xing Xiuquan , Guo Yong , Zhu Yinru , Yan Wei , Qu Junle
Published: September 2022

Stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy can break the optical diffraction barrier and provide subdiffraction resolution. According to the STED superresolution imaging principle, the resolution of STED is positively related to the power of the depletion laser. However, high‐laser power largely limits the study of living cells or living bodies. Moreover, the high complexity and high cost of conventional pulsed STED microscopy limit the application of this technique. Therefore, this paper describes a simple continuous‐wave STED (CW‐STED) system constructed on a 45 × 60 cm breadboard and combined with digitally enhanced (DE) technology; low‐power superresolution imaging is realized, which has the advantages of reducing system complexity and cost. The low‐system complexity, low cost, and low‐power superresolution imaging features of CW‐STED have great potential to advance the application of STED microscopy in biological research.
Preschool development, temperament and genetic liability as early markers of childhood ADHD: A cohort study
Authors: Tobarra‐Sanchez Esther , Riglin Lucy , Agha Sharifah S. , Stergiakouli Evie , Thapar Anita , Langley Kate
Published: September 2022

Background

ADHD is associated with multiple adverse outcomes and early identification is important. The present study sets out to identify early markers and developmental characteristics during the first 30 months of life that are associated with ADHD 6 years later.

Methods

9201 participants from the prospective Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) birth cohort were included. Outcome measures were parent‐rated ADHD symptom scores (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, SDQ) and ADHD diagnosis (Development and Wellbeing Assessment, DAWBA) at age 7. Seventeen putative markers were identified from previous literature and included: pre‐ and peri‐natal risk factors, genetic liability (ADHD polygenic risk scores, PRS), early development, temperament scores and regulatory problems. Associations were examined using regression analysis.

Results

Univariable regression analysis showed that multiple early life factors were associated with future ADHD outcomes, even after controlling for sex and socio‐economic status. In a multivariable linear regression model; temperament activity scores (B = 0.107, CI = 0.083–0.132), vocabulary delay (B = 0.605, CI = 0.211–0.988), fine motor delay (B = 0.693, CI = 0.360–1.025) and ADHD PRS (B = 0.184, CI = 0.074–0.294) were associated with future symptoms (R2 = 10.7%). In a multivariable logistic regression model, ADHD PRS (OR = 1.39, CI = 1.10–1.77) and temperament activity scores (OR = 1.09, CI = 1.04–1.16) showed association with ADHD diagnosis.

Conclusion

As well as male sex and lower socio‐economic status, high temperament activity levels and motor and speech delays in the first 30 months of life, are associated with childhood ADHD. Intriguingly, given that genetic risk scores are known to explain little of the variance of ADHD outcomes, we found that ADHD PRS added useful predictive information. Future research needs to test whether predictive models incorporating aspects of early development and genetic risk scores are useful for predicting ADHD in clinical practice.
Development of professional identity among dental students – A qualitative study
Authors: Du Xiangyun , Al Khabuli Jumma O. S. , Ba Hattab Raidan A. S. , Daud Aala , Philip Nebu I , Anweigi Lamyia , Matoug‐Elwerfelli Manal , Ali Kamran
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The study explored dental students’ perception of their professional identity (PI) development at a newly established dental college with a problem‐based learning (PBL) curriculum.

Methods

Qualitative methods based on focus groups were used for data collection. The conceptual framework of the study was informed by a subject‐centered sociocultural approach to PI development. Purposive sampling was used to collect data from five focus groups of undergraduate dental students to gain a deeper understanding of their PI development in a PBL environment.

Results

Out of a total of 38 dental students in years 2 and 3, 34 students (89.47%) participated in the focus groups. A theory‐driven thematic analysis was used to dissect the views and experiences of the participants to explore factors contributing to PI development in the early years of the program. At an individual level, PBL was seen to be appropriate for PI development. However, some participants placed more emphasis on practical training in operative dental skills. Relational sources especially role modeling by the PBL facilitators and faculty staff were identified as a key factor to nurture PI development. Mixed views were observed on the value of PBL to enhance team‐working skills. The participants also identified challenges of PBL and provided recommendations on further improvements to enhance the learning experiences of the students.

Conclusions

This study provided useful insights into a PBL curriculum at a newly established dental institution. The findings underscore the value of PBL in developing PI and also highlight the challenges of implementing PBL in a socio‐cultural context and pedagogical implications for further program improvement.
Reinforcer efficacy of grain for horses
Authors: Platzer JoAnna , Feuerbacher Erica N.
Published: September 2022

Positive reinforcement is becoming more common in horse training. Identifying effective reinforcers is critical for training success. The aim of this study was to determine relative reinforcer efficacy of different grains. Four horses learned to muzzle touch a target, after which they were tested using a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement with different grains as the consequence. Break points were used to determine relative reinforcer efficacy of each grain and were also converted into unit price per kilocalorie to determine if caloric value impacted reinforcer efficacy. Condition 1 compared three textured grains that spanned industry‐accepted standards of low to high nonstructural carbohydrate content. Condition 2 compared three pelleted grains that similarly differed in nonstructural carbohydrate content, comparable to Condition 1, but that had a different texture than those of Condition 1. Finally, Condition 3 directly compared one grain each from Conditions 1 and 2. Results showed overall little difference in reinforcer efficacy or unit price between grains but found that all grains tested functioned as reinforcers for the horses. This suggests that a range of commercially available grains can maintain behavior and therefore be used for training. We also identified possible extraexperimental factors that impact reinforcer efficacy.
High‐throughput behavioral phenotyping of tiny arthropods: Chemosensory traits in a mesostigmatic hematophagous mite
Authors: Masier Stefano , Taudière Adrien , Roy Laurent J. M. , Carrasco David , Barnagaud Jean‐Yves , Planchon Camille , Soulié Anne‐Sophie , Sleeckx Nathalie , Roy Lise
Published: September 2022

Pest management using attractive and/or repellent semiochemicals is a key alternative to synthetic insecticides. Its implementation requires a good understanding of the intra‐ and interspecific chemical interactions of arthropod pests, their interactions with their abiotic environment, as well as their evolutionary dynamics. Although mites include many pest species and biocontrol agents of economic importance in agriculture, their chemical ecology is largely understudied compared to insects. We developed a high‐throughput ethomics system to analyze these small arthropods and conducted a study onDermanyssus gallinae, a problematic poultry parasite in the egg industry. Our purpose was to elucidate the role played by host‐derived odorants (synthetic kairomone) and conspecific odorants (mite body odors) inD. gallinae. After validating our nanocomputer controlled olfactometric system with volatile semiochemicals of known biological activity, we characterized response traits to kairomonal and/or pheromonal volatile blends in mites from different populations. We were able to accurately characterize the repulsion or attraction behaviors in >1000 individual specimens in a standardized way. Our results confirm the presence of a volatile aggregation pheromone emitted byD. gallinaeand bring new elements to the effect of odor source presentation. Our results also confirm the attractive effect onDermanyssus gallinaeof a blend of volatile compounds contained in hen odor, while highlighting a repellent effect at high concentration. Significant interindividual and interpopulation variation was noted particularly in responses to synthetic kairomone. This information lays a valuable foundation for further exploring the emergence risk of resistance to semiochemicals.
Locally common graphs
Authors: Csóka Endre , Hubai Tamás , Lovász László
Published: September 2022

Goodman proved that the sum of the number of triangles in a graph on nodes and its complement is at least ; in other words, this sum is minimized, asymptotically, by a random graph with edge density 1/2. Erdős conjectured that a similar inequality will hold for in place of , but this was disproved by Thomason. But an analogous statement does hold for some other graphs, which are called common graphs. Characterization of common graphs seems, however, out of reach. Franek and Rödl proved that is common in a weaker, local sense. Using the language of graph limits, we study two versions of locally common graphs. We sharpen a result of Jagger, Štovíček and Thomason by showing that no graph containing can be locally common, but prove that all such graphs are weakly locally common. We also show that not all connected graphs are weakly locally common.
Clinical significance of preoperative antibiotic use in mild to moderate acute inflammatory gallbladder disease: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Park Sung Eun , Choi Ho Jung , You Young Kyoung , Hong Tae Ho
Published: September 2022

Background

Many patients receive empirical antibiotics for the prevention of postoperative infectious complications following cholecystectomy due to acute cholecystitis (AC). The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of preoperative antibiotics in mild to moderate AC patients undergoing emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

This was a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized study. Patients with AC eligible for emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly assigned to an antibiotic or a placebo group. Clinical outcomes including infectious complications were reviewed.

Results

An imputed per‐protocol analysis of 234 patients showed that the postoperative infection rate was 8.6% (10 of 116 patients) in the antibiotic group and 7.6% (9 of 118 patients) in the placebo group (absolute difference, 1%; 95% CI: −8.1% to 6.1%; P = .815). Based on a noninferiority margin of 10%, the lack of preoperative antibiotic treatment was not associated with worse clinical outcomes than antibiotic treatment. Surgical site infection was the most common complication among the infectious complications, and there was no significant difference between the two groups (7.8% in the antibiotic group vs 7.6%, in the placebo group, P = .53).

Conclusions

The absence of prophylactic antibiotics has no significant impact on the incidence of infectious complications in mild to moderated AC.
Out of the closet? Reconstructing the personal life of pioneering sex researcher Katharine Bement Davis
Authors: Jabour Anya
Published: September 2022

Katharine B. Davis was an important progressive‐era figure, a pioneering professional, an innovative penologist, and an iconoclastic sexologist. Although scholars have long been aware of Davis's tolerant attitude toward same‐sex relationships at the New York State Female Reformatory at Bedford Hills, where she was Superintendent from 1901 to 1913, and her open discussion of same‐sex attraction in her study of “normal” women's sexuality, published in 1929, little has been known about Davis's personal life. Thus, it was a feminist biographer's dream come true to gain access to what Davis called her “autobiographical biography,” the never‐finished, never‐published, story of her life. Or so I thought. As it turns out, my quest to understand Davis's personal life and how it informed her professional trajectory has been a bit more complicated.
Predicting Early Vestibular and Motor Function in Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Dhondt Cleo , Maes Leen , Martens Sarie , Vanaudenaerde Saartje , Rombaut Lotte , Sucaet Marieke , Keymeulen Annelies , Van Hoecke Helen , De Leenheer Els , Dhooge Ingeborg
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) can affect vestibular function, which is an important cornerstone for early motor development. This study aims to identify risk factors for early vestibular dysfunction with severe repercussions on the motor outcome.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 169 cCMV‐patients with complete vestibular assessment (lateral video Head Impulse Test and cervical Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials) before the age of 18 months (mean 8.9, standard deviation 3.27 months). Motor results using the Alberta Infant Motor Scale were collected in 152 of these patients. Logistic and linear regression models were applied to identify risk factors for the vestibular and motor outcomes, respectively.

Results

The odds of developing early vestibular dysfunction were 6 times higher in patients presenting with hearing loss at birth compared to those born with normal hearing (p = .002). Within the latter group, significant predictors for vestibular dysfunction were (delayed‐onset) hearing impairment at the time of vestibular testing (p = .003) and the presence of periventricular cysts on magnetic resonance imaging (p = .005). Remarkably, none of the patients infected during the third trimester of pregnancy (n = 14) developed early vestibular dysfunction. On average, vestibular‐impaired patients had a z‐score on the Alberta Infant Motor Scale that was 1.17 points lower than patients without vestibular deficit (p < .001).

Conclusion

Early vestibular loss can have a significant adverse effect on motor development. Hearing and cranial imaging findings could facilitate the widespread implementation of a (targeted) vestibular assessment approach in the cCMV‐population.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:1757–1765, 2023
Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Adult Patients With an Orofacial Cleft: An Unseen Psychological Burden
Authors: Stepp Wesley H. , Stein Eva J. , Canfarotta Michael W. , Wood Jeyhan , Vandoros Eva , Stein Margot , Daniel Renie , Shockley William W. , Clark Joseph Madison , Drake Amelia F.
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Facial dysmorphic disorder (FDD), a variant of body dysmorphic disorder, occurs when individuals are preoccupied with perceived defects in their facial appearance. Cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) requires many clinical interventions and has significant psychological impacts on a patient's perception of appearance. This study identified psychological burdens related to living as an adult with CL/P and characterizes the degree of FDD symptoms in an adult craniofacial population.

Methods

This was a prospective, single‐center, cross‐sectional case–control study using semi‐structured interviews and symptom assessments at a university‐based craniofacial center. Patients without CL/P undergoing non‐cosmetic facial surgery were recruited as controls (n = 20). Patients with an orofacial cleft (n = 30) were recruited from medical and dental providers at the University of North Carolina. Body Dysmorphic Disorder‐Yale Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (BBD‐YBOCS) scores were collected from a control population and patients with CL/P to assess FDD severity.

Results

Demographic factors such age, biological sex, and ethnicity had no significant impact on FDD symptom scores. Patient with CL/P were more likely to have significant FDD symptoms (BDD‐YBOCS greater than 16) than patients without CL/P (OR 10.5, CI95 2.7–41.1), and had a mean difference in FDD symptoms scores of 10.04 (p < 0.0001; CI95 5.5–14.6). Patients with CL/P seen by a mental health provider in the past 3 months had 3‐fold lower overall FDD symptom scores (OR 0.081; CI95 0.0085–0.77).

Conclusions

Adults with CL/P would benefit from treatment for cleft‐specific needs and psychological support as they face unique stressors related to their appearance, including an increase in FDD‐associated symptoms. This study emphasizes the importance of recognizing psychological symptoms and providing ongoing multidisciplinary care to adults with CL/P.

Level of Evidence

3; Individual case–control study Laryngoscope, 133:818–821, 2023
The Impact of Polymer Architecture on Polyion Complex (PIC) Micelles: When Topology Matters (and When It Doesn't)
Authors: Li Chendan , van Ravensteijn Bas G. P. , Stuart Martien A. Cohen , Magana José Rodrigo , Voets Ilja K.
Published: September 2022

The influence of homopolymer architecture on the properties of polyion complex micelles is reported. Using a combination of dynamic and static light scattering, the authors show how the architecture is only relevant in kinetically trapped states of micelles formed by the electrostatic assembly of poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide‐block‐styrene sulfonate) (p(NIPAM‐b‐SS) and linear, 4‐arm, 8‐arm star quaternized poly(dimethyl amino ethyl acrylate) (PDMAEA) homopolymers or poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers. Interestingly, the micellar size and the aggregation number in these kinetically arrested states follow a clear trend with the number of arms but differ in the case of dendrimers possibly due to the distinct chemical nature of the monomers. The authors show that if the micelles are prepared in a weak polyelectrolyte pairing regime (i.e., high ionic strength), they all converge into similar structures. The presented findings represent a new way of controlling the properties of polyion complex micelles through kinetically trapped states.
A Mechanochemically Active Metal‐Organic Framework (MOF) Based on Cu‐Bis‐NHC‐Linkers: Synthesis and Mechano‐Catalytic Activation
Authors: Shinde Kshitij Sanjay , Michael Philipp , Fuhrmann Daniel , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: September 2022

Porous coordination polymers, more commonly known as metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), are constructed from metal ions and organic linkers which form a robust network‐like structure similar to very dense polymeric networks. In this work the mechanochemical activation of a MOF is reported, based on the previous results on the mechanochemical activation of latent Cu(I)‐based N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) embedded covalently in various polymers. A mechanochemically triggered copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) is achieved using an NHC‐MOF, constructed from 1,3‐bis(4‐carboxyphenyl)imidazolium chloride as organic linker. A Cu(I) bis(NHC) is embedded into the MOF analogous to ([Zn4O{Cu(L)2}2]) using the organic bis‐NHC ligand, in turn generating a largely amorphous MOF. On activation by ultrasound, the MOF containing 4.66% of Cu shows mechanochemical activation to obtain Cu(I), subsequently triggering a CuAAC with conversions up to 26.5% as monitored by the reaction of benzylazide and phenylacetylene to yield 1‐benzyl‐4‐phenyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole over a period of 20 sonication cycles. With this knowledge in solution, there are prospects to transfer this mechanochemical activity into polymer networks with embedded MOFs to detect stress in hybrid materials.
Addition–Fragmentation Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Bio‐Based Thiocarbonyl l‐Lactide for Dual Degradable Vinyl Copolymers
Authors: Kamiki Ryoya , Kubo Tomohiro , Satoh Kotaro
Published: September 2022

This study is designed to synthesize novel degradable polymers by radical addition–fragmentation ring‐opening copolymerization of bio‐based thiocarbonyl compounds with various vinyl monomers. Thiocarbonyl l‐lactide is capable of radical copolymerization with acrylates and styrene via radical addition to the carbon–sulfur double bonds followed by ring‐opening as well as controlled copolymerization in conjunction with the reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) process. The obtained polymers possess ring‐opened thioester and ring‐retained thioacetal functionalities in the backbone, both of which could be cleaved under appropriate conditions with different chemical stimuli.
Analyzing RNA posttranscriptional modifications to decipher the epitranscriptomic code
Authors: Deng L. , Kumar J. , Rose R. , McIntyre W. , Fabris Daniele
Published: September 2022

The discovery of RNA silencing has revealed that non‐protein‐coding sequences (ncRNAs) can cover essential roles in regulatory networks and their malfunction may result in severe consequences on human health. These findings have prompted a general reassessment of the significance of RNA as a key player in cellular processes. This reassessment, however, will not be complete without a greater understanding of the distribution and function of the over 170 variants of the canonical ribonucleotides, which contribute to the breathtaking structural diversity of natural RNA. This review surveys the analytical approaches employed for the identification, characterization, and detection of RNA posttranscriptional modifications (rPTMs). The merits of analyzing individual units after exhaustive hydrolysis of the initial biopolymer are outlined together with those of identifying their position in the sequence of parent strands. Approaches based on next generation sequencing and mass spectrometry technologies are covered in depth to provide a comprehensive view of their respective merits. Deciphering the epitranscriptomic code will require not only mapping the location of rPTMs in the various classes of RNAs, but also assessing the variations of expression levels under different experimental conditions. The fact that no individual platform is currently capable of meeting all such demands implies that it will be essential to capitalize on complementary approaches to obtain the desired information. For this reason, the review strived to cover the broadest possible range of techniques to provide readers with the fundamental elements necessary to make informed choices and design the most effective possible strategy to accomplish the task at hand.
De novo biosynthesis of α‐aminoadipate via multi‐strategy metabolic engineering in Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhang Yang , Liu Meng , Cai Bingqi , He Keqin , Wang Meng , Chen Biqiang , Tan Tianwei
Published: September 2022

As a non‐protein amino acid, α‐aminoadipate is used in the fields of medicine, chemical engineering, food science, and others. For example, α‐aminoadipate is an important precursor for the production of β‐lactam antibiotics. Currently, the synthesis of α‐aminoadipate depends on chemical catalysis that has the disadvantages of high cost, low yield, and serious pollution. In this study, we construct a biosynthesis pathway of α‐aminoadipate in Escherichia coli using lysine as a precursor. In addition, we regulate the cell metabolism to improve the titer of α‐aminoadipate via multi‐strategy metabolic engineering. First, a novel synthetic pathway was constructed to realize de novo synthesis of α‐aminoadipate with titers of 82 mg/L. Second, the key enzymes involved in enhancing precursor synthesis were overexpressed and the CO2 fixation process was introduced, and these led to 80% and 34% increases in the α‐aminoadipate concentration, reaching 147 and 110 mg/L, respectively. Third, cofactor regulation was used to maintain the coupling balance of material and energy, with the intracellular α‐aminoadipate concentration reaching 140 mg/L. Fourth, the weakening of the synthesis of acetic acid was used to strengthen the synthesis of α‐aminoadipate, and this resulted in the enhancement of the α‐aminoadipate concentration by 2.2 times, reaching 263 mg/L. Finally, combination optimization was used to promote the production of α‐aminoadipate. The titers of α‐aminoadipate reached 368 mg/L (strain EcN11#) and 415 mg/L (strain EcN11##), which was 3.5 and 4 times higher than that of the parent strain. With these efforts, 1.54 g/L of α‐aminoadipate was produced under fed‐batch conditions by strain EcN11#. This study is the first to present the effective biosynthesis of α‐aminoadipate in E. coli using multi‐strategy metabolic engineering.
The Gray Area of Freezing of Gait Annotation: A Guideline and Open‐Source Practical Tool
Authors: Cockx Helena , Klaver Emilie , Tjepkema‐Cloostermans Marleen , van Wezel Richard , Nonnekes Jorik
Published: September 2022

Background

Freezing of gait, a disabling episodic symptom, is difficult to assess as the exact begin‐ and endpoint of an episode is not easy to specify. This hampers scientific and clinical progress. The current golden standard is video annotation by two independent raters. However, the comparison of the two ratings gives rise to non‐overlapping, gray areas.

Objective

To provide a guideline for dealing with these gray areas.

Methods/Results

We propose a standardized procedure for handling the gray areas based on two parameters, the tolerance and correction parameter. Furthermore, we recommend the use of positive agreement, negative agreement, and prevalence index to report interrater agreement instead of the commonly used intraclass correlation coefficient or Cohen's kappa. This theoretical guideline was implemented in an open‐source practical tool, FOGtool (https://github.com/helenacockx/FOGtool).

Conclusion

This paper aims to contribute to the standardization of freezing of gait assessment, thereby improving data sharing procedures and replicability of study results.
Reproductive health of the sow during puerperium
Authors: Björkman Stefan , Kauffold Johannes , Kaiser Marianne Ørnstrup
Published: September 2022

The modern hyperprolific sow is susceptible to metabolic disease and chronic inflammation. The most sensitive phase is parturition, when the sow experiences systemic inflammation and stress, and major changes in metabolism and endocrinology. Resolution of inflammation and stress needs to happen quickly to ensure good reproductive health during puerperium. If the sow fails to adapt to these changes, puerperal disease may occur. The economically most important puerperal disease complex is the postpartum dysgalactia syndrome (PPDS). Other puerperal diseases include infections of the urogenital tract. Diagnosis of PPDS and urogenital disease on‐farm is challenging but several diagnostic methods, including clinical examination, behavioral observations, ultrasonography and biomarkers are available. Ultrasonography is an excellent tool for monitoring the health of the urogenital tract, the mammary gland, and uterine involution and guide further diagnostic interventions. Biomarkers such as Chromogranin A, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and interleukin‐6 represent promising tools to monitor general health and the systemic state of inflammation and oxidative stress of the sow. Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, dopamine antagonists, and oxytocin are promising to address the symptoms of PPDS. Reducing of stress, improving nutrition and intestinal health, and supporting animal welfare‐friendly husbandry help in the prevention of PPDS.
Alterations in insulin‐like growth factor system in spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Kaymaz Ayse Yesbek , Bal Sevgi Kostel , Bora Gamze , Talim Beril , Ozon Alev , Alikasifoglu Ayfer , Topaloglu Haluk , Yurter Hayat Erdem
Published: September 2022

Introduction/Aims

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an inherited neuromuscular disease caused by survival motor neuron (SMN) protein deficiency. Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) is a myotrophic and neurotrophic factor that has been reported to be dysregulated in in vivo SMA model systems. However, detailed analyses of the IGF‐I system in SMA patients are missing. In this study, we analyzed the components of the IGF‐I system in serum and archived skeletal muscle biopsies of SMA patients.

Methods

Serum IGF‐I, IGF binding protein (IGFBP)‐3, and IGFBP‐5 levels were analyzed in 11 SMA patients and 13 healthy children by immunoradiometric and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. The expression of IGF‐I, IGF‐I receptor, and IGFBP‐5 proteins was investigated by immunofluorescence analysis in the archived skeletal muscle biopsies of nine SMA patients, six patients with non‐SMA‐related neuromuscular disease and atrophic fibers in muscle biopsy, and four controls.

Results

A significant decrease in IGF‐I levels (mean ± SD: −1.39 ± 1.46 vs. 0.017 ± 0.83, p = .02) and increase in IGFBP‐5 levels (mean ± SD: 2358.5 ± 1617.4 ng/mL vs. 1003.4 ± 274.3 ng/mL, p = .03) were detected in serum samples of SMA patients compared to healthy controls. Increased expression of IGF‐I, IGF‐I receptor, and IGFBP‐5 was detected in skeletal muscle biopsies of SMA patients and non‐SMA neuromuscular diseases, indicating atrophy‐specific alterations in the pathway.

Discussion

Our findings suggested that the components of the IGF‐I system are altered in SMA patients at both the systemic and tissue‐specific levels.
Atypical presentations of inclusion body myositis: Clinical characteristics and long‐term outcomes
Authors: Alamr Mazen , Pinto Marcus V. , Naddaf Elie
Published: September 2022

Introductions/Aims

Inclusion body myositis (IBM) typically presents with progressive weakness preferentially involving finger flexors and quadriceps. Atypical presentations have been less commonly reported. Here, we aim to describe the clinical characteristics and long‐term outcomes of IBM patients with atypical presentations.

Methods

We retrospectively searched the Mayo Clinic medical records to identify IBM patients with atypical disease onset, seen between 2015 and 2020.

Results

We identified 357 IBM patients, of whom 50 (14%) had an atypical presentation. Thirty‐eight patients were diagnosed with IBM because they fulfilled one of the European Neuromuscular Center diagnostic categories at a later stage, 10 had all IBM histopathological features, and 2 were diagnosed on the basis of clinical and laboratory data. The most common presentation was dysphagia (50%), followed by asymptomatic hyperCKemia (24%; CK, creatine kinase), then foot drop (12%). 6% of patients presented with proximal arm weakness, 4% with axial weakness and 4% with facial diplegia. Median time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 9 y. Median age at diagnosis was 70.5 y. 16% of patients needed a walking aid. When tested, 86.5% of patients had impaired swallowing and 56% had elevated cytosolic nucleotidase‐1A antibodies. Only 1/26 patients who received immunotherapy had minimal improvement. Upon follow‐up, most patients had generalization of their weakness with a decline in their strength summated score of 0.082/mo.

Discussion

A significant proportion of IBM patients may have an atypical presentation. Recognition of such heterogeneity could improve early diagnosis, prevent unnecessary immunotherapy, and provide insight for future diagnostic criteria development and clinical trials.
Expanded clinical spectrum of oculopharyngodistal myopathy type 1
Authors: Shimizu Takahiro , Ishiura Hiroyuki , Hara Manato , Shibata Shota , Unuma Atsushi , Kubota Akatsuki , Sakuishi Kaori , Inoue Kiyoharu , Goto Jun , Takahashi Yuji , Shirota Yuichiro , Hamada Masashi , Shimizu Jun , Tsuji Shoji , Toda Tatsushi
Published: September 2022

Introduction/Aims

Heterozygous CGG repeat expansions in low‐density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 12 (LRP12) have recently been identified as a cause of oculopharyngodistal myopathy (OPDM), and the disease is designated as OPDM type 1 (OPDM1). In contrast to broadening of our knowledge on the genetic background of OPDM, what we know of the clinical phenotype of genetically confirmed OPDM1 remains limited.

Methods

This investigation was a single‐center case series study of OPDM consisting of ten patients from seven families. Repeat‐primed polymerase chain reaction and Southern blot analyses were performed to confirm the CGG repeat expansions in LRP12. Clinical findings were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Seven patients from five families were identified as having CGG repeat expansions in LRP12. We found a high prevalence of axial muscle involvement, such as neck muscle weakness (6/7) and fatty infiltration in the rectus abdominis muscle, as revealed by computed tomography (5/5). We identified patients with very subtle oculopharyngeal symptoms, mimicking isolated distal myopathy. Muscle specimens were collected from the biceps brachii and tibialis anterior muscles of three patients. Myopathic changes were more severe with more atrophic fibers forming clusters in the tibialis anterior than the biceps brachii muscles of these three patients. No rimmed vacuoles were observed in the biceps brachii muscles in two of the three patients.

Discussion

This study shows the expanded clinical spectrum of OPDM1, highlighting the importance of axial muscle evaluation in OPDM1. Considering patients with very subtle oculopharyngeal symptoms, genetic analysis of LRP12 should be considered in patients with isolated distal myopathy.
Novel Glucosylimidazolium Ionic‐Liquid‐Supported Novozym 435 Catalysts – A Proof of Concept for an Acrylation Reaction
Authors: Lehmann Paul , Jopp Stefan
Published: September 2022

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Stefan Jopp at the University of Rostock. The image depicts the conversion of acrylic acid and n‐butanol into butyl acrylate through an engine of Novozym 435, in which the powering piston CalB (Candida antarctica lipase B) is supported by the newly developed GMIM‐I (glucosyl‐methyl‐imidazolium iodide). The authors acknowledge Dr. Johanna Meyer (University of Hannover) for the creation of the cover image. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/open.202200135.
Use Color and Appearance to Identify Common Water Quality Issues
Authors: Burlingame Gary A. , Dietrich Andrea M.
Published: September 2022

Resolving customer water quality complaints is an important aspect of water utility operations. Fortunately, many common complaints can indicate the probable cause and the appropriate solution.
Comprehensive characterization of novel Robusta (AAA) banana bracts fibers reinforced polylactic acid based biocomposites for lightweight applications
Authors: Ramasamy Siva , Karuppuchamy Amutha , Jayaraj Jeya Jeevahan , Suyambulingam Indran , Siengchin Suchart , Fischer Steffen
Published: September 2022

Biocomposites have attracted researchers recently due to their biodegradability and environment‐friendly nature. The application of new fibers is increasing to reduce the fiber cost, and easy processing, and to meet the application‐specific properties in composite manufacturing. Banana is one of the most investigated plants for extracting fibers. Literature showed that the banana fibers were extracted from various parts of the plant. However, the potential of banana bracts is not discovered yet for composite manufacturing. In this work, the Robusta (AAA) variety banana bracts fibers (BBF) were prepared and used to make BBF reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) matrix biocomposites. Virgin PLA and BBF/PLA composites were prepared by two roll mills followed by compression molding. The characterization was carried out through X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the tensile, flexural, and impact properties were evaluated for Virgin PLA, BBF, and BBF/PLA composites. The FTIR results supported the incorporation of banana bracts in the composites by increasing the cellulosic and noncellulosic components. The SEM images supported the bonding of BBF in the PLA matrix. The BBF/PLA composite possessed the tensile strength of 40.15 ± 4.32 MPa, flexural strength (FS) of 87.13 ± 5.60 MPa, impact strength of 7.41 ± 0.56 kJ/m2, and a crystallinity index of 48.22%, which were significantly better than the virgin PLA. It was concluded that the BBF can be effectively used for making biocomposite with good mechanical strength.