bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the neuroprotective potential of rAAV2‐PCBP1‐EGFP gene therapy against a 6‐OHDA‐induced model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ma Ling‐Yun , Wang Lanying , Liang Jiantao , Huo Lirong
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Previous studies have suggested a potential link between poly(rC)‐binding protein 1 (PCBP1) and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the precise role of PCBP1 in the pathogenesis of PD remains unclear. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of PCBP1 in a PD model.

Methods

To evaluate the neuroprotective potential of PCBP1, we conducted cell count assays and observed the expression of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in SH‐SY5Y cells exposed to 6‐OHDA‐induced neurotoxicity. Additionally, we utilized recombinant adeno‐associated virus (rAAV2) vectors encoding PCBP1 or EGFP, which were injected into the rat striatum. After 2 weeks of vector or saline injection, 6‐OHDA was administered to the rat striatum. Behavioral assessments using the open field test (OFT) were performed weekly for 7 weeks. At the seventh week after 6‐OHDA injection, immunohistochemistry and protein expression analyses were conducted in the three groups.

Results

The results indicated that PCBP1 treatment significantly reduced the proliferation of 6‐OHDA‐induced SH‐SY5Y cells. Additionally, in surviving cells, overexpression of PCBP1 enhanced the expression of HSP70. Similarly, rAAV2 vectors effectively delivered PCBP1 into the brain, resulting in sustained expression of rAAV2‐PCBP1‐EGFP. In the OFT, PCBP1 exhibited significant improvements in behavioral abnormalities and reduced anxiety in the PD model rats (p < .01). Moreover, PCBP1 effectively prevented the decrease of tyrosine hydroxylase and HSP70 expression in the lesioned side induced by 6‐OHDA (p < .01). Consistent with expectations, PCBP1 efficiently protected against cell death caused by 6‐OHDA (p < .01).

Conclusions

In conclusion, our findings provide compelling evidence for the beneficial effects of PCBP1 in the PD model, suggesting that PCBP1 could be a potential therapeutic target for PD.
High rate capability and cyclic stability of Ni‐rich layered oxide LiNi0.83Co0.12Mn0.05−xAlxO2 cathodes: Nanofiber versus nanoparticle morphology
Authors: Mitra Soumyadip , Sudakar Chandran
Published: January 2024

High energy density Ni‐rich layered oxide cathodes LiNi0.83Co0.12Mn0.05−xAlxO2 (x = 0 [NMC], 0.025 [NMCA], 0.05 [NCA]) are fabricated in two different microstructural forms: (i) nanoparticles (NP) and (ii) nanofibers (NF), to evaluate the morphology and compositional effect on the electrochemical properties using same precursors, with the latter fabricated by electrospinning process. Although all the cathodes exhibit a similar crystal structure as confirmed using X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy, the contrasting difference is observed in their electrochemical properties. XRD and XPS analyses indicate a higher amount of cationic disorder for the NP cathodes compared to their NF counterparts. Nanofibrous Ni‐rich layered oxide cathodes exhibit higher discharge capacities at all C‐rates in comparison to NP cathodes. When cycled at 1C‐rate for 100 cycles, capacity retention of 81% is observed for NCA‐NF, which is superior to all cathodes. Voltage decay as a function of the charge–discharge cycle is found to be low (0.2 mV/cycle) for nanofibrous cathodes compared to 1.5 mV/cycle for NP cathodes. The good rate capability and cyclic stability of nanofibrous Ni‐rich layered oxide cathodes are attributed to a shorter pathway of Li+ diffusion and a large proportion of the active surface area.
Unveiling the Antimicrobial and Larvicidal Potential of Butyrolactones and Orsellinic Acid Derivatives from the Morus alba‐derived Fungus Aspergillus terreus via Integrated In vitro and In silico Approaches
Authors: Amr Khadiga , Elissawy Ahmed M. , Ibrahim Nehal , Elnaggar Mohamed S. , Fawzy Iten M. , Singab Abdel Nasser B.
Published: January 2024

The emergence of multi‐drug‐resistant microbial strains spurred the search for antimicrobial agents; as a result, two distinct approaches were combined: four in vitro studies and four corresponding molecular docking investigations. Antituberculosis, anti‐methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (anti‐MRSA), antifungal, and larvicidal activities of the crude extract, two fractions, and seven isolated compounds from Aspergillus terreus derived from Morus alba roots were explored. The isolated compounds (5 butyrolactones and 2 orsellinic acid derivatives) showed potent to moderate antitubercular activity with MIC values ranging from 1.95 to 62.5 μg/mL (compared to isoniazid, 0.24 μg/mL) and promising anti‐MRSA potential with inhibition zone diameters ranging from 8 to 25 mm. Additionally, the in silico study proved that the isolated compounds bind to the two corresponding proteins’ active sites with high to moderate –(C–Docker interaction energies) and stable interactions. The isolated compounds displayed antifungal activities against different fungal strains at diverse degrees of activity, among them compound (8“S,9”)‐dihydroxy‐dihydrobutyrolactone I eliciting the best antifungal activity. Meanwhile, all isolated compounds, fractions, and the crude extract demonstrated extremely selective potent to moderate activity against Cryptococcus neoformans. The isolated five butyrolactone derivatives could develop potential mosquito larvicidal agents as a result of promising docking outcomes in the larval enzyme carboxylesterase.
Intracoronary snaring of the retrograde guidewire: A novel method to solve compartment mismatch in complex retrograde CTO PCI
Authors: Moscardelli Silvia , Condos Gregory , Lombardi William L. , Azzalini Lorenzo
Published: January 2024

The retrograde approach has allowed a remarkable improvement in the success rate of chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). After collateral channel crossing, the most crucial aspect of retrograde CTO PCI is creating the connection between the antegrade and retrograde system. Currently, the most common technique to achieve this is reverse controlled antegrade and retrograde subintimal tracking. However, this maneuver sometimes fails due to compartment mismatch (intraplaque situation of one wire and extraplaque situation of the other). New approaches are therefore needed to overcome challenges in this important step of the procedure. Here we present an innovative solution to this problem, which involved capturing the retrograde guidewire (advanced into a side branch at the distal cap) with a microsnare that had been advanced antegradely: this severed the dissection flap separating the antegrade and retrograde system, thus allowing us to successfully recanalize the CTO.
An asymptomatic perforation of the gastrointestinal tract caused by ingestion of foreign body: A case report
Authors: Wang Qiang , Cheng Shujie , Zhang Xuejiao , Xie Tianhao , Sun Xinli , Niu Zheng , Liu Yahan , Jin Xiaoshi
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

Ingestion of foreign bodies is very common in clinical practice. However, gastrointestinal perforation caused by a foreign body is rare, as most foreign bodies can pass the alimentary tract spontaneously or be removed endoscopically. Ingesting a foreign body causes gastrointestinal tract perforation in less than 1% of cases that require surgery. In the past, the literature about gastrointestinal tract perforation caused by foreign bodies had been widely reported worldwide. However, the case of foreign bodies causing gastrointestinal perforation without significant abdominal infection was rarely documented. A 47‐year‐old woman presented with intermittent left lower abdominal pain associated with a mass for 1 month and had no other symptoms. Laparotomy was performed after clinical assessment. During the operation, a local inflammatory mass that adhered to the abdominal wall, part of the small intestine, and sigmoid colon was found in the left lower quarter of the abdominal cavity. The surrounding intestinal wall was edematous. There were two bony foreign bodies in it. Postoperative pathology suggested an inflammatory mass. A foreign body rarely migrates into the abdominal cavity without symptoms that may be related to the omentum's slow perforation process and good function. The best treatment is surgery and using appropriate antibiotics.
5‐Hydroxypyrroloindoline Affords Tryptathionine and 2,2′‐bis‐Indole Peptide Staples: Application to Melanotan‐II
Authors: Todorovic Mihajlo , Blanc Antoine , Wang Zhou , Lozada Jerome , Froelich Juliette , Zeisler Jutta , Zhang Chengcheng , Merkens Helen , Benard Francois , Perrin David M.
Published: January 2024

With peptides increasingly favored as drugs, natural product motifs, namely the tryptathionine staple, found in amatoxins and phallotoxins, and the 2,2’‐bis‐indole found in staurosporine represent unexplored staples for unnatural peptide macrocycles. We disclose the efficient condensation of a 5‐hydroxypyrroloindoline with either a cysteine‐thiol or a tryptophan‐indole to form a tryptathionine or 2‐2’‐bis‐indole staple. Judicious use of protecting groups provides for chemoselective stapling using α‐MSH, which provides a basis for investigating both chemoselectivity and affinity. Both classes of stapled peptides show nanomolar Ki’s, with one showing a sub‐nanomolar Ki value.
Wasserstoff
Authors: Hirth Thomas , Jordan Thomas
Published: January 2024

No abstract.
Associations of serum trimethylamine N‐oxide and its precursors with colorectal cancer risk in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial Cohort
Authors: Byrd Doratha A. , Zouiouich Semi , Karwa Smriti , Li Xinmin S. , Wang Zeneng , Sampson Joshua N. , Loftfield Erikka , Huang Wen‐Yi , Hazen Stanley L. , Sinha Rashmi
Published: January 2024

Background

Dietary intake influences gut microbiome composition, which in turn may be associated with colorectal cancer (CRC). Associations of the gut microbiome with colorectal carcinogenesis may be mediated through bacterially regulated, metabolically active metabolites, including trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO) and its precursors, choline, L‐carnitine, and betaine.

Methods

Prospective associations of circulating TMAO and its precursors with CRC risk were investigated. TMAO, choline, betaine, and L‐carnitine were measured in baseline serum samples from 761 incident CRC cases and 1:1 individually matched controls in the prospective Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial Cohort using targeted fully quantitative liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry panels. Prospective associations of the metabolites with CRC risk, using multivariable conditional logistic regression, were measured. Associations of a priori–selected dietary exposures with the four metabolites were also investigated.

Results

TMAO and its precursors were not associated with CRC risk overall, but TMAO and choline were positively associated with higher risk for distal CRC (continuous ORQ90 vs. Q10 [95% CI] = 1.90 [CI, 1.24–2.92; p = .003] and 1.26 [1.17–1.36; p < .0001], respectively). Conversely, choline was inversely associated with rectal cancer (ORQ90 vs. Q10 [95% CI] = 0.77 [0.76–0.79; p < .001]). Red meat, which was previously associated with CRC risk in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial Cohort , was positively associated with TMAO (Spearman rho = 0.10; p = .0003).

Conclusions

Serum TMAO and choline may be associated with higher risk of distal CRC, and red meat may be positively associated with serum TMAO. These findings provide insight into a potential microbially mediated mechanism underlying CRC etiology.
When the unimaginable happens: Lung cancer diagnosis during pregnancy
Authors: Florez Narjust , Kaufman Rebekah A. , Yáñez‐Sarmiento Anamaria , Abioye Oyepeju , Kiel Lauren R.
Published: January 2024

The increasing incidence of lung cancer diagnosis during pregnancy has brought new challenges and opportunities to expand the knowledge gap in this protected patient population. Here, available data and top recommendations for the practicing oncologist are discussed.
Optimization and validation of a suprasystolic brachial cuff‐based method for noninvasively estimating central aortic blood pressure
Authors: Zhang Xujie , Wang Yue , Yin Zhaofang , Liang Fuyou
Published: January 2024

Clinical studies have extensively demonstrated that central aortic blood pressure (CABP) has greater clinical significance in comparison with peripheral blood pressure. Despite the existence of various techniques for noninvasively measuring CABP, the clinical applications of most techniques are hampered by the unsatisfactory accuracy or large variability in measurement errors. In this study, we proposed a new method for noninvasively estimating CABP with improved accuracy and reduced uncertain errors. The main idea was to optimize the estimation of the pulse wave transit time from the aorta to the occluded lumen of the brachial artery under a suprasystolic cuff by identifying and utilizing the characteristic information of the cuff oscillation wave, thereby improving the accuracy and stability of the CABP estimation algorithms under various physiological conditions. The method was firstly developed and verified based on large‐scale virtual subject data (n = 800) generated by a computational model of the cardiovascular system coupled to a brachial cuff, and then validated with small‐scale in vivo data (n = 34). The estimation errors for the aortic systolic pressure were −0.05 ± 0.63 mmHg in the test group of the virtual subjects and −1.09 ± 3.70 mmHg in the test group of the patients, both demonstrating a good performance. In particular, the estimation errors were found to be insensitive to variations in hemodynamic conditions and cardiovascular properties, manifesting the high robustness of the method. The method may have promising clinical applicability, although further validation studies with larger‐scale clinical data remain necessary.
Detection of phishing addresses and pages with a data set balancing approach by generative adversarial network (GAN) and convolutional neural network (CNN) optimized with swarm intelligence
Authors: Jafari Somayyeh , Aghaee‐Maybodi Nasrin
Published: January 2024

Phishing attacks have a remarkable ability to steal user information by using simple techniques. Phishing attacks steal valuable information, such as user names and passwords. The loss caused by phishing attacks is significant, and every year, millions of dollars are lost by internet users and companies through phishing attacks. Deep learning methods such as CNN neural network are one approach to detecting phishing attacks: deep learning methods, optimization for image processing, and efficient techniques used to process URL strings. A convolutional neural network is a widely used deep learning method in image processing. The limitation of CNN learning to images is one of the main challenges of this neural network for detecting phishing attacks. Imbalance in the training dataset and lack of intelligent feature selection are other challenges for CNN training in detecting phishing attacks. This manuscript presents a new approach called CGAN‐IWSO‐ResNet50 to detect phishing attacks. In the first step, the improved version of the conditional GAN is used to balance the URL samples. In the second stage, Hand‐crafted and TF‐IDF methods implement the feature extraction phase. In the feature selection stage, the WOA algorithm is used to improve the WSO algorithm's performance in feature selection. The selected features are implemented on the dataset, and legal and phishing samples are coded as RGB images. In the last step, RGB images are used to teach ResNet50 architecture. Tests in the PhishTank dataset showed that the proposed method's accuracy, sensitivity, and precision index are 99.65%, 99.12%, and 99.46%, respectively. The CGAN‐IWSO‐ResNet50 method is more accurate in detecting phishing attacks than the VGG19, AlexNet, RCNN, DNN + LSTM, and DNN + BiLSTM learning methods.
Rotational Spectroscopy and Conformational Flexibility of 2‐Phenylethanethiol: The Dominant S−H⋅⋅⋅π Intramolecular Hydrogen Bond
Authors: Tama Saragi Rizalina , Li Wenqin , Juanes Marcos , Enríquez Lourdes , Pinacho Ruth , Rubio José Emiliano , Lesarri Alberto
Published: January 2024

We present a rotational‐computational investigation of the aromatic mercaptan 2‐phenylethanethiol, addressing its potential energy surface, conformational equilibrium, internal dynamics and intramolecular interactions. The experiment used broadband chirped‐pulse Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy in a supersonic jet expansion, recording the rotational spectrum in the 2–8 GHz frequency region. Two different conformers were detected in the spectrum. The most intense transitions correspond to a skew (gauche‐gauche) conformation, identified as the global minimum. The spectra of ten different isotopologues were assigned for this species, leading to accurate effective and substitution structures. The weaker spectrum presents small tunnelling doublings caused by the torsional motion of the thiol group, which are only compatible with an antiperiplanar skeleton and a gauche thiol. The larger stability of the global minimum is attributed to an intramolecular S−H⋅⋅⋅π weak hydrogen bond. A comparison of the intramolecular interactions in the title molecule and 2‐phenylethanol, similarly stabilized by a O−H⋅⋅⋅π hydrogen bond, shows the different strength of these interactions. Density functional (B3LYP‐D3, B2PLYP‐D3) and ab initio (MP2) calculations were conducted for the molecule.
Predicting Clinical Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics and Impact of Organ Impairment on siRNA‐Based Therapeutics Using a Mechanistic Physiologically‐Based Pharmacokinetic‐Pharmacodynamic Model
Authors: Lumen Annie , Zhang Xinwen , Dutta Sandeep , Upreti Vijay V.
Published: January 2024

Approved and emerging siRNA therapeutics are primarily designed for targeted delivery to liver where the therapeutic gene silencing effects occurs. Impairment of hepatic/renal function and its impact on siRNA pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PKs/PDs) are yet to be mechanistically evaluated to describe the unanticipated clinical observations for this novel modality. We developed pathophysiologically relevant models for organ impairment within a physiologically‐based PK‐PD (PBPK‐PD) modeling framework focusing on modality‐specific mechanistic factors to evaluate impact on siRNA PKs and PDs. PBPK‐PD models for two US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved siRNAs inclisiran and vutrisiran were developed as case studies leveraging available tissue‐specific data and translated to humans. Key determinants of the clinical PK and PD of N‐acetylgalactosamine conjugated siRNAs (GalNAc‐siRNAs) with varying sequences were also identified to inform effective clinical translation strategies for emerging GalNAc‐siRNA candidates. A 30–70% reduction in hepatic asialoglycoprotein receptors concentrations still allowed for sufficient amount of free cytoplasmic siRNA for RISC‐loading to produce PD effects comparable in extent and duration to normal liver function. This included severe hepatic impairment for which no clinical data are available. Inclusion of other modality agnostic physiological changes relevant to organ impairment did not alter the findings. Changes in renal physiologies, including changes in GFR across various degrees of impairment, well predicted minimal changes in PD for inclisiran and vutrisiran. This work provides a quantitative mechanistic framework and insights on modality‐specific factors that drive clinical translation and patient/disease‐related factors that impact specific dosing considerations and clinical outcomes to help accelerate the optimal development of siRNA therapeutics.
A Retrospective Analysis of the Potential Impact of Differences in Aggregates on Clinical Immunogenicity of Biosimilars and their Reference Products
Authors: Fernandez‐Mendivil Cristina , Kinsella Niamh M. , Ebbers Hans C.
Published: January 2024

Aggregates, in particular high molecular weight species (HMWs), have been linked to increased immunogenicity. The current understanding on the impact of HMWs is mainly based on in vitro and nonclinical studies and there are only limited data available associating differences in HMWs in marketed monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to clinical outcomes. Biosimilars offer a unique opportunity to study the potential association between quality parameters and clinical outcomes. We performed a retrospective evaluation to investigate the association between HMW content and reported antidrug‐antibody (ADA) incidence in 30 full‐length biosimilar mAbs approved in the European Union and the United States. Information for HMW content and ADA incidence were collected from publicly available sources. Differences in HMW content between biosimilars and their reference products (RPs) ranged from −0.75 to 1.65% with slightly higher differences observed in antineoplastic products as compared with immunosuppressant products. The difference in the ADA incidence between the RP and the biosimilar for the programs studied ranged from −11.0 to 18.5%. No association was observed between differences in HMW content and reported ADA incidence, in neither phase I nor phase III studies. Our results show that the limited differences in the content of HMWs between marketed biosimilars and reference mAbs were not associated with differences in reported immunogenicity, determined as incidence of ADAs and neutralizing ADAs in comparative clinical studies.
Recovering Misidentified Samples Through Genetic Discordance Clustering
Authors: Huang Jesse , Kockum Ingrid , Stridh Pernilla
Published: January 2024

The many logistical and technical challenges associated with sample and data handling in largescale genotyping studies can increase the risk of sample misidentification, which may compromise subsequent analyses. However, the standard quality assurance methods typical for large genotyping arrays can often be further utilized to identify and recover problematic samples. This article emphasizes the importance of identifying and correcting underlying sample misidentification rather than simply excluding known discrepancies, which may potentially include undetected issues. Lastly, we provide a screening protocol to complement standard quality assessments as a guideline for identifying mismatched samples and a tool for assessing the most common causes of sample misidentification. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Configurations of corporate governance mechanisms and sustainable development
Authors: Torres Pedro
Published: January 2024

Aiming to shed light on the interplay of board‐related mechanisms and their influence on sustainable development, this study examines configurations of corporate governance conditions that are associated with high and low ESG performance. Fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis was used, resorting to a sample of S&P 500 manufacturing companies that are committed to contributing to solve the climate change societal challenge (i.e., SDG13). The configurational analysis was also extended to the all sample of S&P 500 companies to assure the generalizability of the findings and provide additional insights. The findings support the functional view of the role of the board, emphasising the notion that configurations (i.e., combinations of conditions) are more important to sustainable development than any single condition. Different from past research, this study emphasises the importance of defining and implementing a CSR strategy to achieve high ESG performance, which is always present in configurations leading to the outcome of interest. Furthermore, the results also suggest that a monitoring mechanism should always be present, while an incentive alignment mechanism is only required in some circumstances. Moreover, the results show that ESG‐related executive compensation should be complemented with other mechanisms, such as board monitoring, to be effective. This study contributes to the debate on whether sustainability‐related performance alignment incentives and monitoring mechanisms act as complements or substitutes. The findings show that linear approaches might not capture the all picture, suggesting that a more nuanced view should be used in future studies, and can inform companies' strategic decisions regarding sustainability.
A new harmonic detection strategy based on improved series repetitive controller
Authors: Liu Pu , Wang Cong , Lu Kaiping , Zu Lifeng , Cui Yibo , Liang Yan , Chang Zhongting
Published: January 2024

The d‐q detection method based on instantaneous reactive power theory (IRPT) is one of the commonly used time‐domain analysis methods for harmonic detection. Due to the poor dynamic performance of the algorithm caused by the low pass filter (LPF) in the d‐q detection method, an improved series repetitive control (ISRC) structure is proposed in this paper. Using attenuation factor and correction factor to improve the series repetitive controller, the ISRC contains a negative resonance peak with a peak value of 150 dB at the 6 k harmonic frequency, and the amplitude gain is 0 dB at frequencies outside the 6 k harmonic frequency. Therefore, ISRC can achieve good attenuation effect on 6 k harmonics while maintaining the same gain at other frequencies. ISRC is used instead of LPF in the traditional d‐q detection and this strategy improves the dynamic response of the system while guaranteeing its steady state performance. Finally, simulations and experiments verify the feasibility of the strategy.
Early development of object manipulation in capuchin monkeys: A naturalistic approach
Authors: Araujo Guilbert , Truppa Valentina , Izar Patrícia
Published: January 2024

How human and non‐human primates develop their object manipulation skills has been considered an important aspect for understanding the evolution of motor and cognitive abilities in the primate order. Here, we aimed to describe the development of object manipulation from birth to 6 months in robust capuchin monkeys, platyrrhine primates well known for their highly manipulative skills, which partly resemble those observed in catarrhines. To our knowledge, this is the first longitudinal study to investigate the developmental trajectory of object manipulation in capuchin monkeys with a naturalistic approach. For this purpose, eight infants from a wild population of bearded capuchin monkeys were studied in the North‐East of Brazil. Data were coded from focal‐day recordings of these infants. Our results highlighted the speed and trajectory of change in the development of manipulative action over the first 6 months. In the early stages of development, infants use gentle skills to hold and touch objects. Later, with the acquisition of dexterity and postural control, they begin to exhibit behaviors requiring more complex motor patterns and/or combinatorial actions, such as rubbing and hitting objects. Additionally, we found that the target of manipulation shifted over time, with food interactions gaining prominence. Part of our data parallels those from captive‐born individuals, whereas some findings suggest that certain manipulative skills might emerge later in wild capuchins.
Comparative analysis of electrodermal activity metrics and their association with child behavior in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Greenlee Jessica L. , Lorang Emily , Olson Robert H. , Rodriquez Geovanna , Yoon Dasoo Milton , Hartley Sigan
Published: January 2024

Researchers are increasingly utilizing physiological data like electrodermal activity (EDA) to understand how stress “gets under the skin.” Results of EDA studies in autistic children are mixed, with some suggesting autistic hyperarousal, others finding hypoarousal, and yet others detecting no difference compared to non‐autistics. Some of this variability likely stems from the different techniques used to assess EDA. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate and compare commonly used metrics of EDA (frequency of peaks, average amplitude of peaks, and standard deviation of skin conductance level) using two data processing programs (NeuroKit2 and Ledalab) and their link to observed child behavior. EDA data were collected using Empatica E4 wristbands from 60 autistic children and adolescents (5–18 years old) during a 7‐min play interaction with their primary caregiver. The play interaction was coded for a range of child behaviors including mood, social responsiveness, dysregulation, and cooperation. Results indicate a strong correlation between NeuroKit2 and Ledalab and a weak correlation between metrics within each program. Furthermore, the frequency of peaks was associated with more positive child social behaviors, and the magnitude of peaks was associated with less adaptive child behaviors. Recommendations for replication and the need for generalizability of this research are given.
Retreating coastal forest supports saltmarsh invertebrates
Authors: Goetz Emily M. , Johnson David S.
Published: January 2024

As sea‐level rise converts coastal forest to salt marsh, marsh arthropods may migrate inland; however, the resulting changes in arthropod communities, including the stage of forest retreat that first supports saltmarsh species, remain unknown. Furthermore, the ghost forest that forms in the wake of rapid forest retreat offers an unknown quality of habitat to marsh arthropods. In a migrating marsh in Virginia, USA, ground‐dwelling arthropod communities were assessed across the forest‐to‐marsh gradient, and functional use of ghost forest and high marsh habitats was evaluated to determine whether marsh arthropods utilized expanded marsh in the same way as existing marsh. Diet and body condition were compared for two marsh species found in both high marsh and ghost forest (the detritivore amphipod, Orchestia grillus, and the hunting spider, Pardosa littoralis). Community composition differed among zones along the gradient, driven largely by retreating forest taxa (e.g., Collembola), marsh taxa migrating into the forest (e.g., O. grillus), and unique taxa (e.g., Hydrophilinae beetles) at the ecotone. The low forest was the most inland zone to accommodate the saltmarsh species O. grillus, suggesting that inland migration of certain saltmarsh arthropods may co‐occur with early saltmarsh plant migration and precede complete tree canopy die‐off. Functionally, O. grillus occupied a larger trophic niche in the ghost forest than the high marsh, likely by consuming both marsh and terrestrial material. Despite this, both observed marsh species primarily consumed from the marsh grass food web in both habitats, and no lasting differences in body condition were observed. For the species and functional traits assessed, the ghost forest and high marsh did not show major differences at this site. Forest retreat and marsh migration may thus provide an important opportunity for generalist saltmarsh arthropods to maintain their habitat extent in the face of marsh loss due to sea‐level rise.
Physicochemical properties of barley starch and effect of substitution of wheat flour with barley starch on texture and sensory properties of bread
Authors: Devi Rekhashree , Singh Awanish , Dutta Ditimoni , Sit Nandan
Published: January 2024

In the present study, starch was isolated from barley and the physicochemical and functional properties of the starch were examined. Then the starch was used to prepare bread by substituting wheat flour at three different levels, namely 5%, 10%, and 15%. The rheological properties of the dough and the texture and sensory properties of the prepared breads were investigated. The moisture, protein, starch, fat and ash content of the barley starch (BS) were 10.39 ± 0.03%, 0.08 ± 0.02%, 94.30 ± 0.02%, 0.12 ± 0.03%, and 0.09 ± 0.04%, respectively, whereas the amylose content of the BS was 18.68 ± 0.01%. The rheological study showed the pseudoplastic nature of BS. The elastic moduli values were higher than viscous moduli values for the control dough, and dough prepared by substituting 5% and 10% BS. But in the case of 15% substitution, the elastic moduli values were lower than viscous moduli values. The texture and sensory evaluation studies also showed that bread prepared by substituting wheat flour with BS has better texture and consumer acceptability than the control sample. It can be concluded that wheat flour can be substituted with BS by up to 10% to improve the texture of the bread.
Recent Advances in the Preparation of Air Stable Organozinc Pivalates and their Applications in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Dhayalan Vasudevan , Dodke Vishal S. , Sharma Deepika , Dandela Rambabu
Published: January 2024

This review discusses various methods for the preparation of air and water‐stable organozinc pivalates containing aryl, heteroaryl, alkyl, alkenyl, benzyl and alkynyl scaffolds achieved via i) selective metalation (DoM) in the presence of a directing group (DG) in the aromatic core, ii) direct oxidative Zn metal insertion/or X/M exchange reaction followed by transmetalation with Zn(Opiv)2, which are then further functionalized by Negishi cross‐coupling reactions, or trapping with different aryl, heteroaryl, alkenyl, alkynyl electrophiles used by transition metal catalysts (Pd, Co, Ni, Cu). Selective deprotonation of aryl or heteroaryl derivatives can be performed using LDA, TMP−Mg and TMP−Zn reagents in the presence of a directing group on the aromatic system. Different organozinc reagents based on aromatic and non‐aromatic structures with electron‐rich and electron‐deficient substituents undergo transition metal‐catalyzed C(sp2)−C(sp2), C(sp2)−C(sp) and C(sp2)−C(sp3) types of cross‐coupling reactions with aryl and heteroaryl halides and diaryl disulfides under mild conditions with the sustainable catalytic process. The literature report shows that the polyfunctionalized nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur‐based bioactive pharmaceutical scaffolds, natural products and target organic molecules are accessible using highly air and moisture‐stable organozinc pivalates under sustainable coupling reaction conditions. Importantly, the sensitive functional groups are tolerable, and the commercially available substrates and inexpensive low toxic reagents can be employed with organozinc pivalates. In this context, this review article provides a detailed summary of the numerous synthetic strategies and practical methods for the preparation of aryl, alkenyl, benzyl and alkynyl organozinc reagents that can be isolated in the pure solid form. Additionally, some recently published examples demonstrating their catalytic application in organic synthesis are discussed.
Formylation of Propargylic Alcohols with Difluorocarbene
Authors: Mou Dan , Wang Linda , Du Zhengyin
Published: January 2024

A method for the synthesis of propargylic formates from propargylic alcohols and sodium chlorodifluoroacetate is reported. In the reaction, sodium chlorodifluoroacetate is used as a difluorocarbene precursor and a formylating reagent to provide a carbonyl source, while the triple bond of propargylic alcohols is not involved. The method shows convenient operation, good functional group tolerance and high site‐selectivity under mild reaction conditions.
A case of postoperative non‐invasive mucosal implantation of early‐stage cervical adenocarcinoma to the clitoris
Authors: Wang Rongmin , Ma Lingwei , Xiao Yinping , Jiang Hongyuan , Zhu Jin , Xia Hexia
Published: January 2024

Synopsis

Postoperative non‐invasive mucosal implantation of cervical adenocarcinoma on the clitoris is rare. Surgical resection is appropriate for local recurrence in the vulva.
The mediating role of trait mindfulness and dissociative experiences in the relationship between childhood emotional abuse and problematic internet use in Italian adolescents
Authors: Verrastro Valeria , Saladino Valeria , Calaresi Danilo , Cuzzocrea Francesca
Published: January 2024

There is clear evidence linking trauma, mindfulness, dissociation and problematic internet use (PIU). Nonetheless, little is known about the role trait mindfulness and dissociative experiences may have in the relationship between childhood emotional abuse (CEA) and PIU, as well as the role that gender may have in such relationships. In the current research, self‐report questionnaires on CEA, trait mindfulness, dissociative experiences and PIU were administered to 1074 Italian adolescents (50% females) aged 14–17 years old, to test whether trait mindfulness and dissociative experiences mediated the relationship between CEA and PIU, and whether the proposed mediation was invariant across genders. Furthermore, the main analyses were controlled for background variables. The findings highlighted significant associations between all direct and indirect paths and invariance of the mediation model across boys and girls. The results of this study highlight that emotionally abused boys and girls with high levels of dissociation and inadequate mindful skills may be more exposed to dysfunctional online activities. Hence, developing dissociation‐focused and mindfulness‐based interventions for emotionally abused adolescents may be clinically effective when building tailored approaches for the prevention and management of PIU. Further implications are discussed.
Cross‐reaction mediated by distinct key amino acid combinations in the complementary‐determining region (CDR) of a monoclonal antibody
Authors: Guo Chunyan , Feng Qing , Xie Xin , Li Yan , Hu Hanyu , Hu Jun , Fang Senbiao , Shang Lijun
Published: January 2024

In immunology, cross‐reaction between antigens and antibodies are commonly observed. Prior research has shown that various monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) can recognize a broad spectrum of epitopes related to influenza viruses. However, existing theories on cross‐reactions fall short in explaining the phenomena observed. This study explored the interaction characteristics of H1‐74 mAb with three peptides: two natural peptides, LVLWGIHHP and LPFQNI, derived from the hemagglutinin (HA) antigen of the H1N1 influenza virus, and one synthetic peptide, WPFQNY. Our findings indicate that the complementarity‐determining region (CDR) of H1‐74 mAb comprised five antigen‐binding sites, containing eight key amino acid residues from the light chain variable region and 16 from the heavy chain variable region. These critical residues formed distinct hydrophobic or hydrophilic clusters and functional groups within the binding sites, facilitating interaction with antigen epitopes through hydrogen bonding, salt bridge formation, and π–π stacking. The study revealed that the formation of the antibody molecule led to the creation of binding groups and small units in the CDR, allowing the antibody to attach to a variety of antigen epitopes through diverse combinations of these small units and functional groups. This unique ability of the antibody to bind with antigen epitopes provides a new molecular basis for explaining the phenomenon of antibody cross‐reaction.
Outcomes of children with constipation and autism spectrum disorder treated with antegrade continence enemas
Authors: Srinivas Shruthi , Halaweish Ihab , Knaus Maria E. , Ahmad Hira , Griffin Kristine L. , Stephenson Kevin G. , Yossef Lina , Trimble Casey , Jimenez Alberta L. Negri , Lu Anan , Gasior Alessandra , Wood Richard J. , Williams Kent C.
Published: January 2024

Background

Treatment of functional constipation (FC) in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is challenging due to sensory and behavioral issues. We aimed to understand whether antegrade continence enemas (ACEs) are successful in the treatment of FC in children with ASD.

Methods

A single‐institution retrospective review was performed in children diagnosed with ASD and FC who underwent appendicostomy or cecostomy placement from 2007 to 2019. Descriptive statistics regarding soiling and complications were calculated.

Results

There were 33 patients included, with a median age of 9.7 years at the time of ACE initiation. The average intelligence quotient was 63.6 (SD = 18.0, n = 12), the average behavioral adaptive score was 59.9 (SD = 11.1, n = 13), and the average total Child Behavioral Checklist score was 72.5 (SD = 7.1, n = 10). Soiling rates were significantly lower following ACE initiation (42.3% vs. 14.8%, p = 0.04). Behavioral issues only prevented 1 patient (3.0%) from proper ACE use. Eleven patients (36.6%) were able to transition to laxatives. There were significant improvements in patient‐reported outcomes measures and quality of life.

Conclusion

Placement of an appendicostomy or cecostomy for management of FC in children with severe ASD was successful in treating constipation and improving quality of life.
Preparation and isolation of hydrophilic mannosylerythritol lipids via chemical modification and stepwise extraction
Authors: Yu Fei , Yang Qining , Cui Tianyou , Luo Li , Zhao Mengqian , Long Xuwei
Published: January 2024

Mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs), a glycolipid biosurfactant, possess great potential in many high‐value‐added fields. However, its water‐insolubility is an important obstacle to its wide application, especially in home and personal care fields. In this study, a new strategy “killing two birds with one stone” based on the chemical modification of natural MELs was developed for the preparation of hydrophilic MELs. These newly prepared MELs can be efficiently isolated from the reacted solution via stepwise extraction with a methanol/n‐hexane system. 88% of hydrophilic MELs were recovered from natural MELs, with a corresponding yield of 50%. This is mainly attributed to the esterification of fatty acids, representing the main and relatively‐difficult‐to‐remove impurities in fermentative‐produced MELs, facilitating separation from the MEL product via extraction. Moreover, these new MELs presented comparable surface activities to natural MELs while exhibiting enhanced water solubility and biocompatibility. This originates from the generation of MEL‐D, resulting from the deacetylation of natural MELs and the formation of new hydrophilic MELs containing just one hydrophobic chain (named “MEL‐G”). Hence, the present strategy is not only beneficial for the removal of impurities (fatty acids) but also for the preparation of MELs with improved hydrophilicity.
Phytochemical analyses by LC‐HRMS, FTIR spectral analysis, antioxidant, antidiabetic and antityrosinase activity of Crataegus orientalis Pall. ex M. Bieb fruit extracted with various solvents
Authors: Cakmak Ummuhan
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Crataegus orientalis Pall. ex M. Bieb fruit (COPMB) is extensively used as a source of various products in the medicinal‐aromatic field and holds the potential for erosion control, ornamental purposes, food source, and economic benefits for forest villagers from its fruits. This study aims to determine the chemical components and biological activities of extracts prepared from COPMB using different solvents.

RESULTS

The present work was designed to define the antioxidant activity [phosphomolybdenum (total antioxidant capacity), 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), cupric ion‐reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and metal chelating activity (MCA)], phytochemical screening analysis, enzyme inhibitor (α‐amylase, α‐glucosidase and tyrosinase) potential, and liquid chromatography‐high resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS) secondary metabolite profiling in different extracts of COPMB. The results of LC‐HRMS revealed that fumaric acid was the main phenolic compound in all extracts. Among the extracts, ethyl acetate extract has the highest phytochemical and antioxidant properties [total phenolic content (TPC): 32.5 mg GAE/g, total flavonoid content (TFC): 12.2 mg QE/g, ABTS: 213.0 mg TE/g; CUPRAC: 126.0 mg TE/g, MCA: 145.0 mg EDTA/g; FRAP: 122.8 mg TE/g; TAC: 2.8 mmol TE/g]. Ethyl acetate and methanol extracts are more effective in α‐amylase (0.27 ± 0.01 mg/mL; 0.12 ± 0.00 mg/mL), α‐glucosidase (0.63 ± 0.02 mg/mL; 0.77 ± 0.02 mg/mL) and tyrosinase (0.03 ± 0.00 mg/mL; 0.03 ± 0.00 mg/mL) enzyme inhibition potentials compared to standard acarbose (0.75 ± 0.02 mg/mL for α‐amylase; 1.11 ± 0.03 mg/mL for α‐glucosidase) and kojic acid (0.04 ± 0.00 mg/mL).

CONCLUSION

The findings from this study suggest that COPMB could serve as a valuable source of natural agents for the food and pharmaceutical industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Underutilised palm stearin as hard stock for deep‐frying medium and its performance for oil uptake in instant noodles
Authors: Ooi Eldwin Ze Hao , Ab Karim Nur Azwani , Chan Eng‐Seng , Wang Yong , Tang Teck‐Kim , Tong Shi Cheng , Khor Yih Phing , Lee Yee‐Ying
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

As a by‐product of the palm oil industry, palm stearin is often overlooked despite having several beneficial properties, such as excellent stability, which is critically essential to meet the demand of the global food trend in producing safer processed food. Specifically, deep frying of food is often associated with the production of toxic compounds that could potentially migrate into the food system when oils are degraded under continuous heating. The incorporation of palm stearin is regarded as a cost‐effective and efficient method to modify the fatty acid composition of oils, enhance the frying qualities and lower the degradation rate.

RESULTS

This study blended 5% and 10% palm stearin into palm oil to investigate the deep‐frying performance and impact on food quality. Increasing the palm stearin content improved the frying oil's oxidative and hydrolytic stability, evidenced by reduction of total polar material, free fatty acid and total oxidation value. Addition of palm stearin increased the slip melting point which improved the oil's oxidative stability but no significant increase in oil content of instant noodles was observed. Scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy showed the formation of larger pores in the noodle structure that facilitated oil retention.

CONCLUSION

Blending palm stearin into frying oil enhanced the frying stability and minimally affected the oil uptake in instant noodles. This article presents the viability of blending palm stearin into frying oils to develop longer‐lasting frying oils. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
High temperature‐size exclusion chromatography with triple detection to assess the molecular architecture of low‐density polyethylene: Insight into branching and processability correlations
Authors: Subbaiah Yogesha , Shanmugam Senthilkumar , Hau Qua Eng
Published: January 2024

In this study, three commercially available low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) polymers produced via a tubular reactor process, with varying melt flow rates at 190°C/2.16 kg (4.0, 1.9, and 0.75 g/10 min), have been selected and subjected to high temperature‐size exclusion chromatography (SEC) analysis coupled with an infrared‐5 (IR‐5), viscometer (VISCO), and multiangle laser light‐scattering detectors. The molecular weight (MW), MW distribution, short‐chain branching (SCB), and long‐chain branching parameters were investigated. It was found that MW obtained by the universal technique (∼1.57–1.7 times) and multiangle laser light‐scattering detection technique is (∼1.43–1.55 times) higher than that of the conventional calibration technique, which could be attributed to structural complexity associated with LDPEs which is not clearly understood by conventional SEC mode alone. The bulk SCB per 1000 total carbon atoms estimated by IR‐5 detection was found to range from 16.50 to 17.80. On the other hand, long chain branching frequency per 1000 total carbon atoms obtained by online VISCO and multiangle laser light‐scattering detection ranged from 0.46 to 0.54 and 0.65 to 0.94, respectively. Further, the significance of long chain branching parameters on the polymer processing behavior was studied in correlation with rheological property (Die swell ratio).