bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terahertz Spectroscopy Sheds Light on Real‐Time Exchange Kinetics Occurring through Plasma Membrane during Photodynamic Therapy Treatment
Authors: Zheng Xiujun , Lordon Blandine , Mingotaud Anne‐Françoise , Vicendo Patricia , Brival Rachel , Fourquaux Isabelle , Gibot Laure , Gallot Guilhem
Published: April 2023

Methods to follow in real time complex processes occurring along living cell membranes such as cell permeabilization are rare. Here, the terahertz spectroscopy reveals early events in plasma membrane alteration generated during photodynamic therapy (PDT) protocol, events which are not observable in any other conventional biological techniques performed in parallel as comparison. Photodynamic process is examined in Madin‐Darby canine kidney cells using Pheophorbide (Pheo) photosensitizer alone or alternatively encapsulated in poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) micelles for drug delivery purpose. Terahertz spectroscopy (THz) reveals that plasma membrane permeabilization starts simultaneously with illumination and is stronger when photosensitizer is encapsulated. In parallel, the exchange of biological species is assessed. Over several hours, this conventional approach demonstrates significant differences between free and encapsulated Pheo, the latter leading to high penetration of propidium iodide, Na+ and Ca2+ ions, and a high level of leakage of K+, ATP, and lactate dehydrogenase. THz spectroscopy provides, in a single measurement, the relative number of defects per membrane surface created after PDT, which is not achieved by any other method, providing early, sensitive real‐time information. THz spectroscopy is therefore a promising technique and can be applied to any biological topic requiring the examination of short‐term plasma membrane permeabilization.
Ultrasound Responsive Nanovaccine Armed with Engineered Cancer Cell Membrane and RNA to Prevent Foreseeable Metastasis
Authors: Sun Wenqi , Ji Panpan , Zhou Tian , Li Zhelong , Xing Changyang , Zhang Liang , Wei Mengying , Yang Guodong , Yuan Lijun
Published: April 2023

Cancer vaccine has been considered as a promising immunotherapy by inducing specific anti‐tumor immune response. Rational vaccination at suitable time to efficiently present tumor associated antigen will boost tumor immunity and is badly needed. Here, a poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA)‐based cancer vaccine of nanoscale is designed, in which engineered tumor cell membrane proteins, mRNAs, and sonosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) are encapsulated at high efficiency. The nanosized vaccine can be efficiently delivered into antigen presentation cells (APCs) in lymph nodes after subcutaneous injection. In the APCs, the encapsulated cell membrane and RNA from engineered cells, which have disturbed splicing resembling the metastatic cells, provide neoantigens of metastatic cancer in advance. Moreover, the sonosensitizer Ce6 together with ultrasound irradiation promotes mRNA escape from endosome, and augments antigen presentation. Through 4T1 syngeneic mouse model, it has been proved that the proposed nanovaccine is efficient to elicit antitumor immunity and thus prevent cancer metastasis.
On the robustness/replication of econometric analyses from nonlinear models using various commonplace software packages
Authors: Capps Oral
Published: April 2023

Because replicability is an important part of every scientific endeavor, this research deals with comparing and contrasting parameter estimates, standard errors, and p‐values from the estimation of five commonly encountered nonlinear models in applied econometrics. Commonplace software packages indigenous to econometrics and statistics are used, namely EVIEWS 11.0, SAS 9.4, Stata 17, and R 4.1.2 in five replication exercises to determine potential differences, if any, in empirical results. The hypothesis that mainstream software packages generate different empirical results in the estimation of nonlinear models is confirmed for the polynomial distributed lag (PDL) model and the GARCH(1,1) model. For the probit model and the Barten synthetic demand system model, the differences in parameter estimates, standard errors, and p‐values are less evident across the four commonly used software packages. For the Tobit model, the respective sets of parameter estimates, standard errors, and p‐values are nearly identical across the respective software packages. Economic analysts should not just accept estimation results uncritically, but instead, conduct sensitivity analyses involving the use of at least two software packages. The agricultural economics profession should adopt this recommendation as standard practice.
Private transfers, public transfers, and food insecurity during the time of COVID‐19: Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Akhter , Bakhtiar M. Mehrab , Gilligan Daniel O. , Hoddinott John , Roy Shalini
Published: April 2023

In the aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic, interest has grown in what kinds of assistance protect household food security during shocks. We study rural and urban Bangladesh from 2018 to 2019 to late 2021, assessing how pre‐pandemic access to social safety net programs and private remittances relate to household food insecurity during the pandemic. Using longitudinal data and estimating differences‐in‐differences models with household fixed effects, we find that pre‐pandemic access to social protection is associated with significant reductions in food insecurity in all rounds collected during the pandemic, particularly in our urban sample. However, pre‐pandemic access to remittances shows no similar protective effect.
Usefulness of serum creatinine and cystatin C ratio as a screening tool for predicting prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Tsukagoshi Mariko , Watanabe Akira , Araki Kenichiro , Ishii Norihiro , Hagiwara Kei , Hoshino Kouki , Muranushi Ryo , Harimoto Norifumi , Takizawa Makiko , Shirabe Ken
Published: April 2023

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of the serum creatinine/cystatin C (Cr/CysC) ratio as a prognostic factor after pancreatic surgery in patients with pancreatic cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 88 patients with pancreatic ductal carcinoma who underwent pancreatic surgery from January 2017 to December 2020. CysC measured from frozen serum samples and circulating Cr levels were used to calculate the Cr/CysC ratio. The cutoff value of the Cr/CysC ratio was determined using receiver operating characteristic curves. Cox proportional hazards model analysis and survival curves were applied to identify the prognostic factors.

Results

The optimal cutoff value of the Cr/CysC ratio for predicting mortality after surgery was 1.05. This study included 20 (22.7%) and 68 (77.3%) patients with high and low Cr/CysC ratios, respectively. The low Cr/CysC ratio was significantly associated with female sex (p = 0.020) and higher levels of C‐reactive protein (p = 0.020). The postoperative length of stay was significantly longer in patients with low Cr/CysC rates (p = 0.044). Patients with low Cr/CysC ratio showed poorer prognosis in relapse‐free survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.33; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.54–4.20; p = 0.002) and overall survival (HR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.04–6.10, p = 0.041), respectively, which were significantly worse than in those with high Cr/CysC ratios (p = 0.003 and 0.049, respectively).

Conclusion

The Cr/CysC ratio could be a useful screening tool for predicting the prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal carcinoma undergoing pancreatic surgery.
Bifunctional photocatalyst with tailored interface scale for cooperative glycerol selective oxidation and H2 evolution
Authors: Gao Mingyu , Zhang Xinyi , Li Xintao , Wang Qian , Feng Junting , Li Dianqing
Published: April 2023

We propose to fabricate a bifunctional photocatalyst for cooperative glycerol selective oxidation and H2 evolution. The key role of interface scale (nanometer, subnanometer, or atomic level) on tuning catalysis performance was revealed. Specifically, series Pt/defective TiO2 with tailored interface scale were constructed by loading Pt nanoparticle, cluster, and single atom on VTi‐enriched TiO2. It was uncovered that reducing interface scale could largely improve the visible‐light utilization efficiency, the photoexcited electron–hole separation, and well tuned the band structure. It could also enhance the metal–support interaction and thus adjust the chemical behavior toward reactant molecules. The optimized isolated Pt/defective TiO2 with atomic‐level interface achieved 90.6% glycerol conversion and 87.2% C3 products selectivity, accompanied by 7250.4 μmol g−1 H2 accumulative yield. It also exhibited long‐term stability of 36 h without performance loss. Besides, the dominate active site was identified and the possible reaction mechanism was illustrated combined with Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation and quasi in situ experiments.
A molecular kinetic model for heavy gas oil catalytic pyrolysis to light olefins
Authors: Chen Zhengyu , Wang Gang , Zhao Suoqi , Zhang Linzhou
Published: April 2023

Petroleum catalytic pyrolysis to light olefin technology has received wide‐ranging research interest in the refining industry. This work built a molecular kinetic model for the catalytic pyrolysis of a heavy gas oil from bitumen synthetic crude oil (SCO) to light olefins. A feedstock compositional model was constructed containing 1311 molecules using bulk properties information. A variety of reaction rules was summarized and digitized, and from which, a reaction network involving 2631 substances and 6793 reactions was generated via a reaction network autogeneration algorithm. The reaction network for the catalytic pyrolysis was transformed into reaction rate equations. Systematical pilot‐scale catalytic pyrolysis experiments were carried out, which were used to regress the molecular kinetic model parameters. The tuned model is able to predict the product yield and molecular distribution. Moreover, a range of sensitivity analysis was performed, revealing the dependence of light olefins yields on the reaction conditions.
Contradictions in change: Ecological factors in the implementation of outer layer sexual violence prevention
Authors: Rieger Agnes , Blackburn Allyson M. , Nag Apoorva , Holland Hope , Allen Nicole E.
Published: April 2023

This study examined the adoption and implementation process in early efforts to implement ecological (“outer layer”) sexual violence (SV) prevention strategies. Interviews with 28 preventionists from 26 local sites within a large, midwestern state, were conducted to examine individual preventionists' problem definitions of SV and ecological factors surrounding implementation. Findings suggest that SV prevention in the state is primarily implemented at the individual‐level; when preventionists described engaging in or anticipating outer layer interventions, they were often tertiary (i.e., responding after perpetration; e.g., Sexual Assault Response Teams). A majority expressed problem definitions rooted within the individual (e.g., perpetration due to a lack of consent education), and a majority of implemented efforts matched this individual‐level conceptualization. Yet, contradictions between problem definitions (e.g., SV stemming from oppression) and implemented activities (e.g., single‐session educational interventions) emerged. Such contradictions may be best understood in light of contextual implementation influences: diverse preventionist job responsibilities, less training/support for outer layer prevention, preventionist autonomy, leadership messaging, time requirements, partner reticence, and extensive work with schools. Inner layer influences, including identification with job roles, preference for, and a sense of urgency toward inner layer work, appeared to interact with contextual factors. Implications across community psychology domains are discussed.
Synthesis of β‐Hydroxylsulfones through Cobalt‐catalyzed Aerobic Oxysulfonylation of Styrenes with Sulfonyl Chlorides
Authors: Yu Yanting , Wang Zhigang , Fang Zeguo , Zhang Qian , Li Dong
Published: April 2023

A novel method for synthesis of β‐hydroxylsulfone derivatives by cobalt‐catalyzed aerobic oxysulfonylation of styrenes with sulfonyl chlorides was developed. This reaction proceeds under simple and mild conditions, employing inexpensive cobalt as the catalyst and molecular oxygen as the oxidant. It showed a broad substrate scope and provided a series of β‐hydroxylsulfone in moderate to good yields.
A Catalyst‐ and Metal‐free Approach towards the Synthesis of β‐Carboline tethered Imidazole Derivatives and Assessment of their Photophysical Properties
Authors: Vaishali  , Singh Virender
Published: April 2023

A simple, facile, and highly efficient approach has been unfolded for the syntheses of β‐carboline tethered imidazole derivatives. This expeditious catalyst‐free strategy proceeds through the assembly of 1‐formyl‐9H‐β‐carbolines, glyoxal derivatives and ammonium acetate via the formation of concomitant four C−N bonds in a one‐pot operation. The current approach has various advantages, including multicomponent nature, simple reaction conditions, short reaction time, broad substrate scope, and high product yield. Importantly, the β‐carboline tethered imidazole derivatives displayed excellent photophysical properties with quantum yield up to 90%.
Bimetallic Pd/Cu‐Catalyzed Sonogashira Coupling‐Elimination Reaction: An Efficient Synthesis of 2‐Unsubstituted Terminal 1, 3‐Enynes
Authors: Shi Yijun , Sun Xinyue , Qu Shengping , Xiong Jie
Published: April 2023

Herein, an efficient strategy to synthesize 2‐unsubstituted terminal 1, 3‐enynes in high yields by bimetallic Pd/Cu‐catalyzed Sonogashira coupling‐elimination reaction of iodobenzenes with 4‐bromobut‐1‐yne was reported. To our knowledge, this is the first report of 4‐bromobut‐1‐yne as an efficient 1, 3‐enynes reagent, and the method is more convenient and cost‐effective than other reported synthetic methods, which are hindered by the laborious preparation of starting materials, the high cost of bromoethene, and the inconvenient handling of gas acetylene.
An overdue catalyst: Limitations imposed by COVID‐19 improved capacity building in community‐led environmental education in Madagascar
Authors: West Kathy , Tecot Stacey , Walker‐Bolton Amber D. , Borgerson Cortni , Wright Patricia C. , Razafindravony Lovasoa , Andriamiadanarivo Andry , Andrianoely Dina , Celestain Jean , Elison Pascal , Jordan Jessie , Liu Arielle , Milliasse Ramanorintsoa F. , Rafidimanandray Rhodin , Ranaivoson Tolotra , Randimbiarimanana Clara , Razafindrapaoly Be Noel , Soule Madison , Aliperti Jaclyn R.
Published: April 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic caused by the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus brought many primatology research programs and conservation efforts to a halt. After Madagascar closed its borders during March 2020, many on‐site international project leaders and researchers returned to their home countries when their programs were delayed or canceled. Madagascar remained closed to travelers until November 2021, when it reopened to international flights. The 20‐month absence of international researchers allowed many local Malagasy program staff, wildlife professionals, and community leaders to step into new leadership roles and responsibilities. Many programs that already had strong Malagasy leadership and meaningful collaborations with local communities flourished, while others either swiftly strengthened these attributes or faced challenges from pandemic‐related travel restrictions. Here, we describe how the coronavirus pandemic events of 2020–2021 initiated long‐overdue shifts in outdated models of internationally led primate research and education projects in communities living alongside primates at risk of extinction. We discuss the benefits and challenges of pandemic‐induced changes within five primatological outreach projects, as well as how we can use these experiences to improve community‐led environmental education and conservation awareness in the future.
Biological normalcy and body fat: Obesity prevalence, fat stigma, and allostatic load among late adolescents and young adults
Authors: Cullin Jennifer M.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Biological normalcy provides a framework to assess tensions between clinical definitions of “normal,” statistical norms, and normative beliefs. A prevailing cultural belief is obesity directly causes poor health, but research has demonstrated consequences of fat stigma. Previous research linked fat stigma and allostatic load (AL) in adults, but this has not been demonstrated in youth, and the role of obesity prevalence is unknown. This study assesses the relationship between fat stigma and AL among youth from counties varying by obesity prevalence.

Materials and methods

Undergraduates from 38 counties across the US state of Indiana (n = 175) were recruited. Fat stigma was measured using the brief stigmatizing situations inventory (SSI). AL was calculated using eight biomarkers representing cardiovascular, metabolic, and immune function. Poisson regression assessed relationships of interest and adjusted for potential confounding. An interaction term and stratified analyses were used to assess moderation.

Results

SSI was not statistically associated with obesity prevalence (RR = 0.96, p = 0.173) but did statistically significantly predict AL (RR = 1.019, p = 0.045) when adjusting for confounders. Obesity prevalence moderated the relationship between SSI and AL (RR = 0.993, p = 0.001).

Discussion

Results suggest that fat stigma, regardless of body fat percentage, is associated with physiologic wear and tear on the late adolescent body, and that exposure to obesity during earlier adolescence moderates this relationship. Those most at risk for high AL reported high fat stigma and lived in counties with relatively low obesity prevalence during earlier adolescence, suggesting vulnerability to fat stigma may be heightened where obesity is less common.
Viscous flow through a thin‐walled elastic hollow ellipsoid—Experiments to demonstrate a potential flowmeter
Authors: Zhu Xiaoqing , Zhang Yu , Chen Xiao Dong
Published: April 2023

Large deformation of an elastic hollow ellipsoid may be used as the mechanism of a flowmeter. It is seen as being inspired by human biology, when passing through fluid internally. The investigation on this potential was carried out where simply the relationships among pressure drop across an ellipsoid, deformation, flowrate and fluid viscosity were obtained. The elastic hollow ellipsoid was made from Silicone, which has a long axis of 0.05 m, a short axis of 0.03 m, and a wall thickness of 3.5 × 10−4 ± 4.6 × 10−5 m. A monotonic relationship between fluid flowrate and a representative diameter of the ellipsoid was found. Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) aqueous solutions were used as a more viscous media so the effect of viscosity was explored. Unlike the firm result on flowrate gauging, it was inconclusive on differentiating the effect of viscosity. When the inlet and the outlet of the fluid were switched over, the geometrical expansion of the ellipsoid was found to be sensitive to the small spatial variation of wall thickness (a non‐uniformity caused by manufacturing limitation). Nevertheless, this work has demonstrated an interesting flowmeter and further explorations on viscosity effect may be warranted.
Design of polyarylates containing tert‐butyl cyclohexyl bulky side group with high transparency and low dielectric properties
Authors: Zhang Yu , Yan Guang‐ming , Yang Jie , Zhang Gang
Published: April 2023

A new kind of novel low dielectric constant (Dk) and high transparency polyarylate had been synthesized through interfacial polycondensation with 1,1′‐ bis (4‐hydroxybenzene)‐4‐tert‐butylcyclohexane (Bt‐BPZ) containing tert‐butyl cyclohexyl bulky side group. As we expect, that the introduction of tert‐butyl cyclohexyl with large free volume is proved to be an efficient strategy for obtaining low dielectric constant and high transparency polyarylate. The optimal dielectric property is obtained with 90% Bt‐PZA in polyarylate (Bt‐PZA91), which show aDkas low as 2.14 at 1 MHz. Meanwhile, Bt‐PZA91 also demonstrates good transmittance of 81.08%–88.34% at 450 nm and 78.67–88.26 at 400 nm. The cut‐off wavelength of Bt‐PZA91 is 304 nm, which is 16 nm shorter than commercial product U‐100 (λc: 320 nm). In addition, the resultant polyarylates showed good comprehensive performance such asTgof 202.2–220.5°C,Td 5%(the initial thermal degradation temperature) of 455.4–468.4°C, tensile strength of 64.7–86.8 MPa and low water absoption (0.41% of Bt‐PZA91). Also it was found to can be thermal process, that its convenient thermoplastic processability makes it a great candidate for light‐electronic industry, 5G communication, and we believe that Bt‐PZA will have a broad application prospect.
Polyethylene based on molecular weight design for eco‐friendly asphalt
Authors: Li Mengru , Luo Chunjia , Zhu Liuyu , Cong Peiliang , Li Huayi , Chen Xi , Zhang Yanmei , Chao Min , Yan Luke
Published: April 2023

Polyethylene (PE) is widely used as a modifier for asphalt due to its low cost. However, PE increases the high‐temperature viscosity of asphalt, leading to higher construction temperatures and harmful emissions. In this study, PE‐modified asphalt with good road performance, energy saving and emission reduction was synthesized by adjusting the molecular weight (Mw) of PE. By studying the effect of PE with different Mw on the viscosity of asphalt, the Mw of PE that can reduce the high‐temperature viscosity of asphalt was concluded and the target product PE‐4 was synthesized. PE reduces the high‐temperature viscosity of asphalt when its Mw is less than the critical molecular weight (Mc) for molecular chain entanglement in the molten state. PE‐4 successfully reduced the high‐temperature viscosity of matrix asphalt. The pavement performance of PE‐4 modified asphalt was characterized. The results showed that PE‐4 reduced the penetration of asphalt, and improved its softening point, ductility, and rutting resistance. PE‐4 modified asphalt is an eco‐friendly asphalt with good road performance. The above data proved that PE with Mw less than Mc makes PE a promising asphalt modifier, which is beneficial to the green utilization of PE.
Phenotype Risk Score but Not Genetic Risk Score Aids in Identifying Individuals With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in the Electronic Health Record
Authors: Barnado April , Wheless Lee , Camai Alex , Green Sarah , Han Bryan , Katta Anish , Denny Joshua C. , Sawalha Amr H.
Published: April 2023

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) poses diagnostic challenges. We undertook this study to evaluate the utility of a phenotype risk score (PheRS) and a genetic risk score (GRS) to identify SLE individuals in a real‐world setting.

Methods

Using a de‐identified electronic health record (EHR) database with an associated DNA biobank, we identified 789 SLE cases and 2,261 controls with available MEGAEX genotyping. A PheRS for SLE was developed using billing codes that captured American College of Rheumatology SLE criteria. We developed a GRS with 58 SLE risk single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Results

SLE cases had a significantly higher PheRS (mean ± SD 7.7 ± 8.0 versus 0.8 ± 2.0 in controls; P < 0.001) and GRS (mean ± SD 12.2 ± 2.3 versus 11.0 ± 2.0 in controls; P < 0.001). Black individuals with SLE had a higher PheRS compared to White individuals (mean ± SD 10.0 ± 10.1 versus 7.1 ± 7.2, respectively; P = 0.002) but a lower GRS (mean ± SD 9.0 ± 1.4 versus 12.3 ± 1.7, respectively; P < 0.001). Models predicting SLE that used only the PheRS had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.87. Adding the GRS to the PheRS resulted in a minimal difference with an AUC of 0.89. On chart review, controls with the highest PheRS and GRS had undiagnosed SLE.

Conclusion

We developed a SLE PheRS to identify established and undiagnosed SLE individuals. A SLE GRS using known risk SNPs did not add value beyond the PheRS and was of limited utility in Black individuals with SLE. More work is needed to understand the genetic risks of SLE in diverse populations.
Metabolically defined body size and body shape phenotypes and risk of postmenopausal breast cancer in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition
Authors: Mahamat‐Saleh Y. , Rinaldi S. , Kaaks R. , Biessy C. , Gonzalez‐Gil E. M. , Murphy N. , Le Cornet C. , Huerta J. M. , Sieri S. , Tjønneland A. , Mellemkjær L. , Guevara M. , Overvad K. , Perez‐Cornago A. , Tin Tin S. , Padroni L. , Simeon V. , Masala G. , May A. , Monninkhof E. , Christakoudi S. , Heath A. K. , Tsilidis K. , Agudo A. , Schulze M. B. , Rothwell J. , Cadeau C. , Severi S. , Weiderpass E. , Gunter M. J. , Dossus L.
Published: April 2023

Background

Excess body fatness and hyperinsulinemia are both associated with an increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. However, whether women with high body fatness but normal insulin levels or those with normal body fatness and high levels of insulin are at elevated risk of breast cancer is not known. We investigated the associations of metabolically defined body size and shape phenotypes with the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer in a nested case–control study within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition.

Methods

Concentrations of C‐peptide—a marker for insulin secretion—were measured at inclusion prior to cancer diagnosis in serum from 610 incident postmenopausal breast cancer cases and 1130 matched controls. C‐peptide concentrations among the control participants were used to define metabolically healthy (MH; in first tertile) and metabolically unhealthy (MU; >1st tertile) status. We created four metabolic health/body size phenotype categories by combining the metabolic health definitions with normal weight (NW; BMI < 25 kg/m2, or WC < 80 cm, or WHR < 0.8) and overweight or obese (OW/OB; BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, or WC ≥ 80 cm, or WHR ≥ 0.8) status for each of the three anthropometric measures separately: (1) MHNW, (2) MHOW/OB, (3) MUNW, and (4) MUOW/OB. Conditional logistic regression was used to compute odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Women classified as MUOW/OB were at higher risk of postmenopausal breast cancer compared to MHNW women considering BMI (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.14–2.19) and WC (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.09–2.08) cut points and there was also a suggestive increased risk for the WHR (OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 0.94–1.77) definition. Conversely, women with the MHOW/OB and MUNW were not at statistically significant elevated risk of postmenopausal breast cancer risk compared to MHNW women.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that being overweight or obese and metabolically unhealthy raises risk of postmenopausal breast cancer while overweight or obese women with normal insulin levels are not at higher risk. Additional research should consider the combined utility of anthropometric measures with metabolic parameters in predicting breast cancer risk.
Visinin‐like 1, a novel target gene of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway, is involved in apoptosis resistance in colorectal cancer
Authors: Tage Hiroki , Yamaguchi Kiyoshi , Nakagawa Saya , Kasuga So , Takane Kiyoko , Furukawa Yoichi , Ikenoue Tsuneo
Published: April 2023

Background

Abnormal activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is associated with various aspects of cancer development. This study explored the roles of novel target genes of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway in cancer cells.

Methods

Using the haploid chronic myelogenous leukemia cell line HAP1, RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) was performed to identify genes whose expression was increased by APC disruption and reversed by β‐catenin knockdown (KD). The regulatory mechanism and function of one of the candidate genes was investigated in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells.

Results

In total, 64 candidate genes whose expression was regulated by Wnt/β‐catenin signaling were identified. Of these candidate genes, the expression levels of six were reduced by β‐catenin KD in HCT116 CRC cells in our previous microarray. One of these genes was Visinin‐like 1 (VSNL1), which belongs to the neuronal calcium‐sensor gene family. The expression of VSNL1 was regulated by the β‐catenin/TCF7L2 complex via two TCF7L2‐binding elements in intron 1. VSNL1 KD‐induced apoptosis in VSNL1‐positive CRC cells. Additionally, forced expression of wild‐type VSNL1, but not a myristoylation, Ca2+‐binding, or dimerization‐defective mutant, suppressed the apoptosis induced by camptothecin and doxorubicin in VSNL1‐negative CRC cells.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that VSNL1, a novel target gene of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway, is associated with apoptosis resistance in CRC cells.
“Being human”: A grounded theory approach to exploring how trainers on clinical psychology doctorate programmes decide whether or not to disclose personal experiences of psychological distress to clinical psychology doctorate trainees
Authors: Davies Simone , Rushworth Imogen , Fisher Paul
Published: April 2023

Objective

Recent research and guidelines recommend that trainers on clinical psychology doctorate training programmes consider disclosing personal experiences of psychological distress to trainees. Disclosure is thought to promote cultures of openness, validate and normalise trainee distress, encourage trainee disclosure and help‐seeking and challenge stigmatising narratives. However, little is known about how trainers decide whether, what or how to disclose. This study aims to address that gap by exploring the processes and factors involved in trainers deciding whether or not to disclose personal experiences of psychological distress to trainees, generating findings of relevance across counselling, psychotherapy and psychology training courses.

Methods

In‐depth interviews were conducted with nine trainers on UK clinical psychology doctorate programmes from around the country and analysed in accordance with constructivist grounded theory methods.

Results

Findings indicated that participants valued disclosure personally and professionally but were wary of the dangers of disclosure. Disclosure decisions were made by judging the context against internally held criteria. If criteria were not met, then disclosures were not made. Outcomes, whether positive or negative, served to reinforce the value of disclosure and the importance of managing risks, creating a positive feedback loop.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest factors that are important for trainers to consider when deciding whether or not to disclose. The six‐factor framework developed may be useful for trainers to consider within reflective practice, supervision or during guided self‐reflection in order to make safe, helpful and ethical decisions.
Management of contralateral molar teeth with necrotic pulp and open apexes using platelet‐rich plasma and vital pulp therapy
Authors: Ghandi Mostafa , Ghorbani Farnaz , Sanaei‐Rad Parisa
Published: April 2023

Key Clinical Message

Regenerative endodontics holds promising potential for the regeneration of living tissues in teeth with necrotic pulp and periapical lesion. Platelet‐rich plasma can be easily prepared and used as an ideal scaffold for pulp regeneration.
Skull base osteomyelitis with extensive bony erosion complicated by venous sinus thrombosis
Authors: Gathman Tyler J. , Sajjadi Autefeh S. , Kleinschmidt Paul D.
Published: April 2023

Key Clinical Message

Skull base osteomyelitis (SBO) mimics the presentation of various conditions, including solid tumors. Computed tomography‐guided core biopsy for culture informs antibiotic selection, and with intravenous corticosteroids, may minimize chronic neurologic dysfunction. Although SBO predominantly affects individuals who are diabetic or immunocompromised, it is important to be able to recognize SBO presenting in an otherwise healthy individual.
HAV‐induced acalculous cholecystitis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Salajegheh Faranak , Shafieipour Sara , Najminejad Zohre , Pourzand Pouria , Nakhaie Mohsen , Jahangiri Samaneh , Sarmadian Roham , Gilani Abolfazl , Rukerd Mohammad Rezaei Zadeh
Published: April 2023

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) has some life‐threatening extrahepatic complications, such as acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC). We present HAV‐induced AAC in a young female, based on clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings, and conduct a literature review. The patient became irritable, which progressed to lethargy, as well as a significant decline in liver function, indicating acute liver failure (ALF). She was immediately managed in the intensive care unit with close airway and hemodynamic monitoring after being diagnosed with ALF (ICU). The patient's condition was improving, despite only close monitoring and supportive treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and N‐acetyl cysteine (NAC).
Recurrent deep vein thrombosis following brown recluse spider bite complicated by medication noncompliance and residual scar tissue: A rare case report
Authors: Surana Arihant , Anand Ayush , Hazique Mohammaed , Singh Birgurman , Gupta Ashwini , Georgy John , Kaki Amir
Published: April 2023

Key Clinical Message

Clinicians should be aware of the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis following brown recluse spider bite.
Rectal bleeding as a symptom of solitary rectal ulcer syndrome mimicking rectal neoplasm on colonoscopy: A case report
Authors: Faghih Dinevari Masood , Eftekharsadat Amirtaher , Tarverdizadeh Mahdi , Rasulimanesh Seyyed Mahdi , Riazi Ali , Jabbaripour Sarmadian Amirreza , Abbasian Samaneh
Published: April 2023

Key Clinical Message

Patients complaining of rectal bleeding, constipation, and a suspicious mass in colonoscopy should undergo biopsy. Histological features such as fibromuscular obliteration in the lamina propria favor SRUS, a benign disorder.
Fingolimod‐induced bladder lymphoma in a patient with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Vaheb Saeed , Ghaffary Elham Moases , Shaygannejad Vahid , Mirmosayyeb Omid
Published: April 2023

Key Clinical Message

Malignancies were reported in some studies following taking Fingolimod. We reported a case of bladder lymphoma after taking Fingolimod. Physicians should consider the carcinogenic effects of Fingolimod in long‐term use and replace it with safer medicines.

Fingolimod is a medication with a potential cure to control multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses. Here we describe a 32‐year‐old woman with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis who developed bladder lymphoma induced by long‐term use of Fingolimod. Physicians should consider the carcinogenic effects of Fingolimod in long‐term use and replace it with safer medicines.
Experimente mit Flüssigmetallen
Authors: Handschuh‐Wang Stephan , Rauf Muhammad , Wang Tao , Gan Tiansheng , Stadler Florian J.
Published: April 2023

Der Beitrag stellt Flüssigmetalle als Materialien vor, welche eine extreme Modulation der Grenzflächenspannung visuell abbilden können und dabei einen hohen Grad an Nachhaltigkeit besitzen. Deshalb schlagen wir Flüssigmetalle für den Chemieunterricht in Schule und Universität in Demonstrations‐ und Schüler/Studentenversuchen vor.
Haemoglobin response modelling under erythropoietin treatment: Physiological model‐informed machine learning method
Authors: Zhang Zhongyu , Li Zukui
Published: April 2023

Patients with renal anaemia are usually treated with recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO) because of insufficient renal EPO secretion. The establishment of a good haemoglobin (Hgb) response model is a necessary condition for dose optimization design. The purpose of this paper is to apply physics‐informed neural networks (PINN) to build the Hgb response model under EPO treatment. Neural network training is guided by a physiological model to avoid overfitting problems. During the training process, the parameters of the physiological model can be estimated simultaneously. To handle differential equations with impulse inputs and time delays, we propose approximate model equations for the pharmacokinetic (PK) model and the pharmacodynamic (PD) model, respectively. The modified PK/PD model was incorporated into PINN for training. Tests on simulated data and clinical data show that the proposed method has better performance than data‐driven modelling methods and the traditional physiological modelling based on the least squares method.
Thiol‐ene emulsion polymerization using a semi‐continuous approach
Authors: Wenzel Fabian , Larrañaga Urko , Aguirre Miren , Leiza Jose R.
Published: April 2023

The thermally initiated thiol‐ene emulsion polymerization of diallyl phthalate (DAP) diene and ethylenedioxy diethanthiol (EDDT) dithiol monomers in batch and semibatch emulsion polymerization is investigated. The batch process leads to larger and broader particle sizes than when the polymerization is carried out in semibatch. The evolution of the particle size and the final particle size distribution indicate that the stability of the latexes is limited and, hence, aggregation phenomena occurred in both processes. In particular, the evolution of the particle size distribution (PSD) in the semibatch process indicates nucleation, growth, and aggregation occurring simultaneously that produced a bimodal particle size. When the diene monomer was changed to diallyl terephthalate (DATP), the semibatch polymerization yielded smaller particles and narrow distribution without any indication of aggregation. The partial substitution of the dithiol by a trithiol monomer that is substantially more water insoluble affected nucleation of the particles, yielding for both systems smaller particles. The polythioether polymers synthesized present low glass transition temperatures (~ −30/−40°C) and those containing the therephthalate yield crystalline films. The potential application of the polymers as pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) was preliminarily assessed.
Development and Application of Trifluoromethoxylating Reagents
Authors: Si Yafeng , Tang Pingping
Published: April 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The trifluoromethoxy functional group has received increasing attention in recent years due to its distinctive properties such as good metabolic stability, appropriate lipophilicity and special electrical properties. Thus, the development of new reagents and new strategies of direct trifluoromethoxylation are attracting the enthusiasm of many fluorine chemical workers. At present, nucleophilic and radical trifluoromethoxylating reagents have made major breakthroughs, greatly promoting the development of trifluoromethoxy chemistry. This review is mainly divided into two parts: nucleophilic and radical types, focusing on the development history, characteristics and applications of various trifluoromethoxylating reagents.
Enantioselective and Enantioconvergent Iron‐Catalyzed C(sp3)‐H Aminations to Chiral 2‐Imidazolidinones
Authors: Cui Tianjiao , Ye Chen‐Xi , Thelemann Jordan , Jenisch Daniel , Meggers Eric
Published: April 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Enantioselective or enantioconvergent iron‐catalyzed ring‐closing C(sp3)‐H aminations of N‐aroyloxyurea through intermediate iron nitrene species provide chiral 2‐imidazolidinones in up to 99% yield and with up to 95% ee (40 examples). This is a rare example in which sustainable iron catalysis is combined with C(sp3)‐H amination and asymmetric catalysis. Chiral 2‐imidazolidinones are prevalent structural motifs in bioactive molecules and can also be hydrolyzed to valuable chiral vicinal diamines in a single step.
Copper(I)‐Thiosemicarbazone Complexes with Dual Anticancer and Antiparasitic Activity
Authors: Machado João Franco , Marques Fernanda , Pinheiro Teresa , Villa de Brito Maria J. , Scalese Gonzalo , Pérez‐Díaz Leticia , Otero Lucía , António João P. M. , Gambino Dinorah , Morais Tânia S.
Published: April 2023

Four new Cu(I) complexes of the general formula [Cu(PP)(LL)][BF4], in which PP is a phosphane ligand (triphenylphosphane or 1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphano)ethane (dppe)) and LL is a bioactive thiosemicarbazone ligand (4‐(methyl)‐1‐(5‐nitrofurfurylidene)thiosemicarbazone) or 4‐(ethyl)‐1‐(5‐nitrofurfurylidene)thiosemicarbazone) were synthesized and fully characterized by classical analytical and spectroscopic methods. The anti‐trypanosome and anticancer activities were investigated in vitro onTrypanosoma cruziand in two human cancer cell lines (ovarian OVCAR3 and prostate PC3). To test the selectivity toward parasites and cancer cells, the cytotoxicity on normal monkey kidney VERO and human dermal fibroblasts HDF cells was also evaluated. The new heteroleptic complexes were more cytotoxic onT. cruziand chemoresistant prostate PC3 cells than the benchmark drugs nifurtimox and cisplatin. The compounds also showed a high level of cellular internalization by the OVCAR3 cells and, in particular, those containing the dppe phosphane showed activation of the cell death mechanism via apoptosis. On the other hand, the production of reactive oxygen species induced by these complexes was not evident.
Increased plasma levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 in patients with hepatitis B virus pre‐S2 gene deletion mutation predict a higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after curative surgical resection
Authors: Jeng Long‐Bin , Li Tsai‐Chung , Wang John , Teng Chiao‐Fang
Published: April 2023

Background

Despite resection surgery as a curative therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the high rate of postoperative HCC recurrence remains a big challenge for patient survival. Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the most important risk factor for HCC. Deletion mutation in the HBV pre‐S2 gene leads to expression of an essential viral oncoprotein called pre‐S2 mutant and represents an independent prognostic biomarker for HCC recurrence after curative surgical resection. Additionally, cytokines are multifunctional secreted proteins and implicated in all stages of HBV‐related HCC tumorigenesis.

Methods

This study aimed to identify the cytokines whose plasma levels were associated with pre‐S2 gene deletion mutation and HCC recurrence and evaluate their potential to be combined with pre‐S2 gene deletion mutation in predicting HCC recurrence.

Results

Among a panel of 27 cytokines examined, plasma levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) were significantly upregulated in patients with pre‐S2 gene deletion mutation or HCC recurrence. MCP‐1 was validated as an independent prognostic biomarker for HCC recurrence. Moreover, patients with both the presence of pre‐S2 gene deletion mutation and high levels of MCP‐1 displayed a higher risk of HCC recurrence than patients with either one or none of these two biomarkers. The combination of pre‐S2 gene deletion mutation and MCP‐1 levels exhibited a better prognostic performance for HCC recurrence than each biomarker alone.

Conclusions

This study discovered that MCP‐1 levels had a significance to be as a combination biomarker with pre‐S2 gene deletion mutation providing an improved performance in predicting HCC recurrence after curative surgical resection.
Optimization of Sodium Storage Performance by Structure Engineering in Nickel‐Cobalt‐Sulfide
Authors: Fan Shanshan , Liu Haiping , Bi Sifu , Meng Xiaohuan , Zhong Haoyin , Zhang Qi , Xie Ying , Xue Junmin
Published: April 2023

The development of high‐performance electrode materials is crucial for the advancement of sodium ion batteries (SIBs), and NiCo2S4 has been identified as a promising anode material due to its high theoretical capacity and abundant redox centers. However, its practical application in SIBs is hampered by issues such as severe volume variations and poor cycle stability. Herein, the Mn‐doped NiCo2S4@graphene nanosheets (GNs) composite electrodes with hollow nanocages were designed using a structure engineering method to relieve the volume expansion and improve the transport kinetics and conductivity of the NiCo2S4 electrode during cycling. Physical characterization and electrochemical tests, combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that the resulting 3 % Mn‐NCS@GNs electrode demonstrates excellent electrochemical performance (352.9 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1 after 200 cycles, and 315.3 mAh g−1 at 5000 mA g−1). This work provides a promising strategy for enhancing the sodium storage performance of metal sulfide electrodes.
Algebraic infection of charge correlations at the ionic critical point
Authors: Alastuey Angel , Das Subir K.
Published: April 2023

We consider a classical two‐component plasma analog of the restricted primitive model of electrolyte, where the hard‐core interaction is replaced by a soft differentiable potential. Within the Born–Green–Yvon hierarchy for the equilibrium distribution functions, we shed light on an infection mechanism where the charge correlations are polluted by the density correlations at the critical point of the liquid–gas transition. This should imply an algebraic decay of critical charge correlations, consistently with the violation of the Stillinger–Lovett sum rule observed in Monte Carlo simulations. In connection with this effect of density correlations on the charge correlations, we also provide a discussion on an extended version of the Debye–Hückel theory that calculates charge correlations in the restricted primitive model for an externally imposed spatial fluctuation of charges.

PACS Numbers: 05.30.‐d, 05.70.Ce, 52.25.Kn.
Effects of habitat management on rodent diversity, abundance, and virus infection dynamics
Authors: Mull Nathaniel , Schexnayder Amy , Stolt Abigail , Sironen Tarja , Forbes Kristian M.
Published: April 2023

As anthropogenic factors continue to degrade natural areas, habitat management is needed to restore and maintain biodiversity. However, the impacts of different habitat management regimes on ecosystems have largely focused on vegetation analyses, with limited evaluation of downstream effects on wildlife. We compared the effects of grassland management regimes (prescribed burning, cutting/haying, or no active management) on rodent communities and the viruses they hosted. Rodents were trapped in 13 existing grassland sites in Northwest Arkansas, USA during 2020 and 2021. Rodent blood samples were screened for antibodies against three common rodent‐borne virus groups: orthohantaviruses, arenaviruses, and orthopoxviruses. We captured 616 rodents across 5953 trap nights. Burned and unmanaged sites had similarly high abundance and diversity, but burned sites had a higher proportion of grassland species than unmanaged sites; cut sites had the highest proportion of grassland species but the lowest rodent abundance and diversity. A total of 38 rodents were seropositive for one of the three virus groups (34 orthohantavirus, three arenavirus, and one orthopoxvirus). Thirty‐six seropositive individuals were found in burned sites, and two orthohantavirus‐seropositive individuals were found in cut sites. Cotton rats and prairie voles, two grassland species, accounted for 97% of the rodents seropositive for orthohantavirus. Our study indicates that prescribed burns lead to a diverse and abundant community of grassland rodent species compared with other management regimes; as keystone taxa, these results also have important implications for many other species in food webs. Higher prevalence of antibodies against rodent‐borne viruses in burned prairies shows an unexpected consequence likely resulting from robust host population densities supported by the increased habitat quality of these sites. Ultimately, these results provide empirical evidence that can inform grassland restoration and ongoing management strategies.