bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of ultrasound pretreatment assisted drying methods on drying characteristics, physical and bioactive properties of windfall apples
Authors: Çetin Necati , Sağlam Cevdet
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Drying is one of the most important post‐harvest processes in order to ensure that the products harvested in certain periods are consumed throughout the year. In this study, Golden Delicious, Oregon Spur and Granny Smith apple cultivars (fallen apples) were dried in open‐sun, a controlled glasshouse, microwave oven (200 W), hybrid system (100 W + 60 °C), convective greenhouse (70 °C) and freeze‐dryer (−55 °C) with and without ultrasound pretreatments.

RESULTS

Present findings revealed that the longest drying duration was observed in freeze‐drying and the shortest in microwave drying. The greatest color change (ΔE) was observed in ultrasound pretreated Oregon Spur apples dried in a controlled glasshouse. The greatest total phenolics (40.08 mg GAE g−1), DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) inhibition activity (46.96%), FRAP (ferric reducing ability of plasma) antioxidant activity (68.01 μg Trolox g−1) and ascorbic acid content (1.52 mg AAE g−1) were observed in open sun‐dried Granny Smith apples without ultrasound pretreatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Generally, microwave and hybrid drying yielded better outcomes for bioactive, HMF (5‐hydroxymethyl‐2‐furfural) and drying characteristics of windfall apples. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Titanium‐based metal‐organic framework MIL‐125(Ti) for the highly selective isolation and purification of immunoglobulin G from human serum
Authors: Chi Zixin , Wu Xi , Zhang Qiqi , Zhai Fengyang , Xu Zesheng , Zhang Dandan , Chen Qing
Published: August 2022

Titanium‐based metal‐organic framework MIL‐125(Ti) was synthesized by the hydrothermal method of terephthalic acid and tetra butyl titanate in N‐N,dimethylformamide, and methanol. MIL‐125(Ti) was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, nitrogen adsorption‐desorption, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, zeta potential, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed MIL‐125(Ti) could be used as a potential adsorbent for protein separation and purification due to the high specific surface area, high stability, and strong hydrophobicity. As a result, MIL‐125(Ti) had adsorption selectivity for immunoglobulin G, which was due to the hydrogen bond between MIL‐125(Ti) and protein. At pH 8.0, the maximum adsorption efficiency of 0.25 mg MIL‐125(Ti) for 300 μL 100 μg/mL immunoglobulin G was 98.3%, and its maximum adsorption capacity was 232.56 mg/g. The elution efficiency of immunoglobulin G was 92.4% by 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate. sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis result demonstrated the successful isolation of highly purified immunoglobulin G from the human serum. Therefore, a new method of separation and purification of immunoglobulin G in human serum using titanium‐based metal‐organic framework MIL‐125(Ti) as a solid‐phase adsorbent was established, which broadened the application scope of metal‐organic frameworks.
Liquid chromatography at the University of Pardubice: A tribute to Professor Pavel Jandera
Authors: Česla Petr , Hájek Tomáš , Urban Jiří , Holčapek Michal
Published: August 2022

Pavel Jandera was a world‐leading analytical chemist who devoted his entire professional life to research in the field of high‐performance liquid chromatography. During his scientific career, he worked at the Department of Analytical Chemistry at the University of Pardubice, Czech Republic. His greatest contribution to the field of liquid chromatography was the introduction of a comprehensive theory of liquid chromatography with programmed elution conditions. He was also involved in the research of gradient elution techniques in preparative chromatography, modeling of retention and selectivity in various phase systems, preparation of organic monolithic microcolumns, and, last but not least, in the development of theory and practical applications of two‐dimensional liquid chromatography, mainly in the comprehensive form. In this review article, we have tried to capture the highlights of his scientific career and provide the readers with a detailed overview of Pavel Jandera's contribution to the evolution of separation sciences.
Associations between parent posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and later child PTSS: Results from an international data archive
Authors: Silverstein Michael J. , Herress Joanna , Ostrowski‐Delahanty Sarah , Stavropoulos Victoria , Kassam‐Adams Nancy , Daly Brian P.
Published: August 2022

The extant literature indicates that parent and child posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) are associated. However, the magnitude of this association at different time points and in the context of covariates has been difficult to quantify due to the methodological limitations of past studies, including small sample sizes. Using data from the Prospective studies of Acute Child Trauma and Recovery Data Archive, we harmonized participant‐level parent and child data from 16 studies (N = 1,775 parent–child dyads) that included prospective assessment of PTSS during both the acute and later posttrauma periods (i.e., 1–30 days and 3–12 months after exposure to a potentially traumatic event, respectively). Parent and child PTSS demonstrated small‐to‐moderate cross‐sectional, ρs = .22–.27, 95% CI [.16, .32], and longitudinal associations, ρ = .30, CI [.23, .36]. Analyses using actor–partner interdependence models revealed that parent PTSS during the acute trauma period predicted later child PTSS. Regression analyses demonstrated that parent gender did not moderate the association between parent and child PTSS. The findings suggest that parent PTSS during the acute and later posttrauma periods may be one of a constellation of risk factors and indicators for child PTSS.
Electrical/Spectroscopic Stability of Conducting and Biodegradable Graft‐Copolymer
Authors: Da Silva Aruã Clayton , Paschoal Vitor Hugo , Ribeiro Mauro Carlos Costa , de Torresi Susana Inés Córdoba
Published: August 2022

Development of conductive and biodegradable graft‐copolymers is decisive for applied electrical biointerfaces. However, to make significant breakthrough in bioelectronics, addressing changing properties while degrading is essential. Herein, the conductive and biodegradable poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) and poly(D,L‐lactic acid) copolymer (PEDOT‐co‐PDLLA) submitted to 35 days of degradation in either deionized water or phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) is reported. Cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and Raman microspectroscopy are used to correlate the electrical stability with molecular/structural changes during the degradation process. Two different proportions 1:05 (higher PEDOT content) and 1:50 (lower PEDOT content) are evaluated. The PEDOT‐co‐PDLLA 1:05 presents stable charge storage capacitance (CSC) in PBS for 35 days. PEDOT‐co‐PDLLA 1:50 shows an enhanced CSC when freshly prepared. However, it promptly loses its capacitance. Raman spectroscopy demonstrates that 1:05 as‐prepared shows mostly neutral state. Nonetheless, after 35 days of degradation, both graft‐copolymers show similar spectra, with contributions of oxidized states. Although the increase in oxidized states moieties should improve the conductivity, its dependence on interconnectivity and its relevance to remaining electronically stable, intrinsically related to conductive/biodegradable proportions in as‐prepared graft‐copolymer are demonstrated. This work contributes to a better understanding of the electrical stability of graft‐copolymers for designing smart devices in bioelectronics applications.
Self‐Assembled Patterns in Ferroelectric Polymer Thin Films: Formation and Implications
Authors: Behera Sinay Simanta , Narayan Kavassery Sureswaran
Published: August 2022

Patterned piezoelectric polymer films serve as a suitable template for exploring various applications based on the characteristic electrical and optical properties. Here, the large‐area spontaneous pattern formation in relaxor terpolymer, poly(vinylidene difluoride‐trifluoroethylene‐chlorofluoroethelene) (P(VDF‐TrFE‐CFE)) films, is demonstrated using the cost‐effective breath‐figure technique. The experimental parameters allowed for controlling the hemispheroidal patterns, with pore dimensions varying from a few ≈100 nm to ≈ mm range. Due to the increased charge accumulation region, these porous structures exhibit enhanced ferroelectric and piezoelectric responses. Additionally, the refractive index contrast in the patterned structures leads to improved diffused reflection and thermal emittance. Furthermore, in the presence of guest‐dye molecules, the dominant amorphous phase of the patterned films results in higher photoluminescence yield. These features enable patterned films for high‐efficiency piezoelectric generators and passive daytime radiators.
Use of CBCT plus plan robustness for reducing QACT frequency in intensity‐modulated proton therapy: Head‐and‐neck cases
Authors: Yao Weiguang , Zhang Baoshe , Han Dong , Polf Jerimy , Vedam Sastry , Lasio Giovanni , Yi Byongyong
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Anatomic variation has a significant dosimetric impact in intensity‐modulated proton therapy. Weekly or biweekly computed tomography (CT) scans, called quality assurance CTs (QACTs), are used to monitor anatomic and resultant dose changes to determine whether adaptive plans are needed. Frequent CT scans result in unwanted QACT dose and increased clinical workloads. This study proposed utilizing patient setup cone‐beam CTs (CBCTs) and treatment plan robustness to reduce the frequency of QACTs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 27 patients with head‐and‐neck cancer, including 594 CBCTs, 136 QACTs, and 19 adaptive plans. For each CBCT, water‐equivalent thickness (WET) along the pencil‐beam path was calculated. For each treatment plan, the WET of the first‐day CBCT was used as the reference, and the mean WET changes (ΔWET) in each following CBCT was used as the surrogate of proton range change. Using CBCTs acquired prior to a QACT, we predicted the ΔWET on the QACT day by a linear regression model. The impact of range change on target dose was calculated as the predicted ΔWET weighted by the monitor units of each field. In addition, plan robustness was estimated from the robust dose‐volume histograms (DVHs) and combined with ΔWET to reduce QACT frequency. Robustness was estimated from the distance between the DVH curves of the nominal and worst scenarios.

Results

When the estimated mean ΔWET was <6.5 mm (or <7.5 mm if the robustness was >95%), the QACT could be skipped without missing any adaptive planning; otherwise a QACT was required. Overall, 41% of QACTs could be eliminated when ΔWET was <6.5 mm and 56% when ΔWET was <7.5 mm, and robustness was >95%. At least one QACT could have been omitted in 25 of the 27 cases under skipping thresholds at ΔWETs <7.5 mm and R > 95%.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the number of QACTs can be greatly reduced by calculating range change in patient setup CBCTs and can be further reduced by combining this information with analyses of plan robustness.
Life Cycle Assessment of the Catalytic Pyrolysis of High‐Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and High‐Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)
Authors: Monteiro Alessandra da R. Duailibe , de Miranda Débora Micheline Vaz , da Silva Pinto José Carlos Costa , Soto Jorge Juan
Published: August 2022

Pollution by plastics constitutes an urgent problem that demands immediate actions, including development of efficient polymer recycling technologies. In this scenario, the catalytic degradation of plastic wastes constitutes a promising technology, as suitable catalysts can be used to perform cracking reactions and controlled plastic degradation, yielding high quality end products. Catalyst investments are expected to be recovered by benefits related to reduction of reaction temperature and time and by manufacture of higher valued products. However, proper environmental assessment of catalyst usage has yet to be performed in most plastics chemical recycling processes. For these reasons, in the present study, life cycle assessment (LCA) based on system expansion methodologies is carried out to determine the environmental impacts of catalytic pyrolysis transformations of high‐impact polystyrene (HIPS) and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) using zeolite H‐USY (ultrastable Y) and SO4/SnO2 catalysts, respectively, based on actual collected experimental data to represent conversions and yields. Surprisingly, the obtained results indicate that the use of catalysts for plastic waste degradation reactions can be environmentally disadvantageous sometimes, depending on the blend of obtained products. Therefore, the environmental impact of catalysts on plastics chemical recycling should be carefully assessed to avoid problems derived from positive bias, which assumes that the catalytic process is necessarily better than the noncatalytic counterpart. However, the positive impacts of styrene and olefins recovery can indeed contribute with positive environmental performances of both catalytic and non‐catalytic processes, particularly regarding global warming, acidification, human toxicity, ecotoxicity, eutrophication, and ozone layer depletion.
A multidisciplinary‐led early arthritis service to manage client‐identified participation restrictions in early inflammatory arthritis: A qualitative study of service user and staff perspectives
Authors: Codd Yvonne , Coe Áine , Kane David , Mullan Ronan H. , Stapleton Tadhg
Published: August 2022

Background

The impact of inflammatory arthritis (IA) on occupational performance and on participation in meaningful life roles is recognised. However, limited research has explored how clinical services support broader life impact and participation restrictions associated with early disease as part of routine healthcare. This exploratory study was undertaken to describe how a novel multidisciplinary‐led early arthritis service approach addresses client‐identified participation restrictions in early IA.

Methods

Qualitative Description (QD) approaches were used to explore perspectives of staff and clients of these multidisciplinary‐led early arthritis services in Ireland. Data were gathered using focus groups with staff, and individual semi‐structured interviews with clients. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Fifteen staff working in these services participated in the focus groups and 43 clients with IA participated in interviews (female n = 31); diagnosis duration ranged from 5 to 24 months. Participants described how the multidisciplinary‐led service had a clear remit to address participation alongside traditional symptom management and provided automatic, immediate access to interventions focussed on identification and management of participation restrictions experienced in early disease. The service model utilised a delivery approach that allowed for ease of early access to a full multidisciplinary team and prolonged support. The most significant feature of the service approach was ‘the centrality of the client’ which influenced a person‐centred approach to identification of needs and priorities for interventions.

Conclusion

Findings indicate the role and value of this innovative multidisciplinary approach in addressing client‐identified participation restrictions in routine clinical practice that is positively regarded by clients and staff.
Fast upper and lower bounds for a large‐scale real‐world arc routing problem
Authors: Boyacı Burak , Dang Thu Huong , Letchford Adam N.
Published: August 2022

Arc routing problems (ARPs) are a special kind of vehicle routing problem, in which the demands are located on edges or arcs, instead of nodes. There is a huge literature on ARPs, and a variety of exact and heuristic algorithms are available. Recently, however, we encountered some real‐life ARPs with over 10 000 roads, which is much larger than those usually considered in the literature. For these problems, we develop fast upper‐ and lower‐bounding procedures. We also present extensive computational results.
Efficient lattice Green's function method for bounded domain problems
Authors: Gupta Ankit , Hodapp Max , Curtin William A.
Published: August 2022

The lattice Green's function method (LGFM) is the discrete counterpart of the continuum boundary element method and is a natural approach for solving intrinsically discrete solid mechanics problems that arise in atomistic‐continuum coupling methods. Here, the LGFM is extended to problems in a bounded domain with applied boundary conditions. An efficient controlled coarse‐graining method is introduced to significantly reduce the number of atomistic degrees of freedom on the outer boundary, and thus the size of the dense Green's function matrices involved while preserving the high accuracy of the solution. The method is demonstrated on various example problems to show reductions in computational costs and errors versus reference solutions.
An efficient reduced‐order method for stochastic eigenvalue analysis
Authors: Zheng Zhibao , Beer Michael , Nackenhorst Udo
Published: August 2022

This article presents an efficient numerical algorithm to compute eigenvalues of stochastic problems. The proposed method represents stochastic eigenvectors by a sum of the products of unknown random variables and deterministic vectors. Stochastic eigenproblems are thus decoupled into deterministic and stochastic analyses. Deterministic vectors are computed efficiently via a few number of deterministic eigenvalue problems. Corresponding random variables and stochastic eigenvalues are solved by a reduced‐order stochastic eigenvalue problem that is built by deterministic vectors. The computational effort and storage of the proposed algorithm increase slightly as the stochastic dimension increases. It can solve high‐dimensional stochastic problems with low computational effort, thus the proposed method avoids the curse of dimensionality with great success. Numerical examples compared to existing methods are given to demonstrate the good accuracy and high efficiency of the proposed method.
Additive manufacturing of polyetheretherketone and its composites: A review
Authors: Francis Justy N. , Banerjee Indranil , Chugh Ankita , Singh Jaiveer
Published: August 2022

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a high‐performance plastic with favorable physical, mechanical, chemical, and biological properties for various industrial applications. Most PEEK substrates/components are manufactured using traditional methods like milling, compression molding, injection molding, pressure sintering, and so forth. With the advent of various additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, researchers have been working on optimizing the processing parameters for AM of PEEK. Furthermore, several PEEK composites with improved properties have also been developed, and efforts have also been made to use these PEEK composites in AM. Since AM of PEEK and its composites is a relatively new area of the advanced manufacturing process, the field faces many challenges. There is a dearth of comprehensive reports on this topic. Keeping this perspective in mind, we have tried to collate the relevant information on the composites and AM of PEEK in this review. The review highlighted the influence of variation in composition on material properties and performance of PEEK and showed the correlation with AM processability of such composites. A detailed analysis of the various reports on fused deposition modeling and selective laser sintering based processing of PEEK composites is included in the review. Critical barriers to the AM of these high‐performance polymer composites are pointed out. We have also included the outcome of some interesting studies about the coating of PEEK with various materials/compounds to provide a broader perspective. This review will help the researcher to design and develop additively manufactured PEEK‐based structures with improved and customized properties.
Preparationof self‐emulsifying waterborne polyamide‐imide sizing for carbon fiber and improvement on mechanical performances of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic polymer
Authors: Ma Zhenyu , Pu Yinchuan , Huang Yudong , Liu Li , Yuan Chengce
Published: August 2022

Recently, Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic polymer (CFRTP) has been widely used in automotive, aviation, and aerospace. However, the traditional epoxy Carbon fiber (CF) sizing for thermosetting composites was unsuitable for high‐performance CFRTP due to the high‐molding temperatures and incompatibility between them. Herein, a novel semi‐aromatic polyamide‐imide (PAI) backbone structure with multi‐ethoxy pendant groups was designed and synthesized via click‐reaction and solvent‐free polymerization. Waterborne PAI sizing was prepared via self‐emulsifying without surfactants. CF/PEEK (polyether‐ether‐ketone) and CF/PEI (polyether‐imide) composites were manufactured. Results showed that novel PAI had excellent thermal stability and solubility, PAI sizing was stable after 6‐month‐storage. Mechanical performances and hydrothermal aging resistance of composites were improved. Compared with commercial‐sized CF (eCF)/PEI, the flexural strength of sCF/PEI increased by 35.2% to 753.47 MPa, and retention rates of them with aging also increased. Noted, mechanisms of interface enhancement were revealed by quantum chemical calculations, ππ stacking and hydrogen bonding between PAI and PEI, PEEK was found.
Facile preparation and characterization of low‐gloss waterborne polyurethane coatings using amine‐based chain extenders
Authors: Kwon Yong Rok , Kim Hae Chan , Moon Seok Kyu , Kim Jung Soo , Chang Young‐Wook , Kim Dong Hyun
Published: August 2022

A novel waterborne polyurethane (WPU) coating with a self‐roughed surface is prepared using a general prepolymer emulsion polymerization method. A rough surface is formed by crosslinking the WPU particles through the introduction of a polyfunctional amine‐based chain extender. Ethylenediamine, diethylenetriamine (DETA) and triethylenetetramine (TETA) with different functional groups are used as chain extenders, and their effect on the surface morphology and gloss of WPU films is investigated. DETA and TETA form a rough surface on the WPU film by crosslinking the polymer chains and promoting phase separation between soft and hard segments. A rough surface reflects light diffusely, resulting in a decrease in the gloss of the film. Overall, the chain extension improves the thermal stability and tensile strength of the WPU film. In particular, the WPU film with DETA, exhibiting the highest chain extension effect, shows the lowest gloss value, the highest tensile strength and thermal stability. The present series of WPU materials, prepared without matting agents and special treatment processes, can be an effective alternative for producing low‐gloss coatings. © 2022 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Onymous early‐life performance degradation analysis of recent photovoltaic module technologies
Authors: Theristis Marios , Stein Joshua S. , Deline Chris , Jordan Dirk , Robinson Charles , Sekulic William , Anderberg Allan , Colvin Dylan J. , Walters Joseph , Seigneur Hubert , King Bruce H.
Published: August 2022

The cost of photovoltaic (PV) modules has declined by 85% since 2010. To achieve this reduction, manufacturers altered module designs and bill of materials; changes that could affect module durability and reliability. To determine if these changes have affected module durability, we measured the performance degradation of 834 fielded PV modules representing 13 module types from 7 manufacturers in 3 climates over 5 years. Degradation rates (Rd) are highly nonlinear over time, and seasonal variations are present in some module types. Mean and median degradation rate values of −0.62%/year and −0.58%/year, respectively, are consistent with rates measured for older modules. Of the 23 systems studied, 6 have degradation rates that will exceed the warranty limits in the future, whereas 13 systems demonstrate the potential of achieving lifetimes beyond 30 years, assuming Rd trends have stabilized.
Drought specifically downregulates mineral nutrition: Plant ionomic content and associated gene expression
Authors: D'Oria Aurélien , Courbet Galatéa , Billiot Bastien , Jing Lun , Pluchon Sylvain , Arkoun Mustapha , Maillard Anne , Roux Christine Paysant‐Le , Trouverie Jacques , Etienne Philippe , Diquélou Sylvain , Ourry Alain
Published: August 2022

One of the main limiting factors of plant yield is drought, and while the physiological responses to this environmental stress have been broadly described, research addressing its impact on mineral nutrition is scarce. Brassica napus and Triticum aestivum were subjected to moderate or severe water deficit, and their responses to drought were assessed by functional ionomic analysis, and derived calculation of the net uptake of 20 nutrients. While the uptake of most mineral nutrients decreased, Fe, Zn, Mn, and Mo uptake were impacted earlier and at a larger scale than most physiological parameters assessed (growth, ABA concentration, gas exchanges and photosynthetic activity). Additionally, in B. napus, the patterns of 183 differentially expressed genes in leaves related to the ionome (known ionomic genes, KIGs) or assumed to be involved in transport of a given nutrient were analyzed. This revealed three patterns of gene expression under drought consisting of up (transport of Cl and Co), down (transport of N, P, B, Mo, and Ni), or mixed levels (transport of S, Mg, K, Zn, Fe, Cu, or Mn) of regulation. The three patterns of gene regulations are discussed in relation to specific gene functions, changes of leaf ionomic composition and with consideration of the crosstalks that have been established between elements. It is suggested that the observed reduction in Fe uptake occurred via a specific response to drought, leading indirectly to reduced uptake of Zn and Mn, and these may be taken up by common transporters encoded by genes that were downregulated.
Planning a digital intervention for adolescents with asthma (BREATHE4T): A theory‐, evidence‐ and Person‐Based Approach to identify key behavioural issues
Authors: Easton Stephanie , Ainsworth Ben , Thomas Mike , Latter Sue , Knibb Rebecca , Cook Amber , Wilding Sam , Bahrami‐Hessari Michael , Kennington Erika , Gibson Denise , Wilkins Hannah , Yardley Lucy , Roberts Graham
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To describe a transparent approach to planning a digital intervention for adolescents to self‐manage their asthma using breathing retraining (BRT), based on an existing, effective adult intervention (BREATHE).

Methods

A theory‐, evidence‐, and Person‐Based Approach was used to maximise the effectiveness and persuasiveness of the intervention. A scoping review and semistructured interviews with target intervention users (N = 18, adolescents aged 12−17 years with asthma and parents) were carried out to explore user perspectives, barriers, and facilitators towards the intended behaviours and potential intervention features. The combined evidence was used alongside and to inform theory‐based activities and enabled iterative planning of the intervention.

Results

The scoping review identified themes relating to user‐specific self‐management issues, content, education, training needs, and features for a digital intervention. Interviews elicited potential barriers to intended behaviours such as the anticipated embarrassment of using BRT and concerns around remaining calm. Facilitators included BRT delivered by adolescents who share experiences of asthma and information for performing exercises discreetly. Relevant theoretical frameworks ensured that appropriate psychological constructs were targeted. A behavioural analysis identified six intervention functions and thirty behaviour change techniques. Logic modelling mapped the programme theory and mechanisms, which aims to improve adolescent asthma‐related quality of life.

Conclusions

This study gives a transparent insight into the approach followed to plan a self‐guided BRT intervention for adolescents and has led to identification of key behavioural issues, enabling relevant intervention content to be chosen. Insight has been given into adolescent perceptions of BRT, which facilitated development of the prototype intervention.
CFTR gene variants, air pollution, and childhood asthma in a California Medicaid population
Authors: Thilakaratne Ruwan , Graham Steve , Moua John , Jones Caitlin G. , Collins Caroline , Mann Jennifer , Sciortino Stanley , Wong Jacklyn , Kharrazi Martin
Published: August 2022

Carriers of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene (“carriers”) have been found to have an increased risk of persistent asthma. However, it is unclear at what level of CFTR function this risk exists and whether it is modified by asthmogens, such as air pollution. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of children born in California between July 2007 and December 2013, linking CFTR genotype data from the California newborn screening program to Medicaid claims records through March 17, 2020 to identify asthma cases, and to air pollution data from CalEnviroScreen 3.0 to identify levels of particulate matter with diameter 2.5 microns or smaller (PM2.5). Log‐binomial regression models for asthma risk were fitted, adjusting for race/ethnicity and sex. Compared to population controls, carriers had higher risk of asthma (adjusted risk ratio (aRR) = 1.29, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.98, 1.69; p < 0.1). Other non‐CF‐causing variants on the second allele did not appear to further increase risk. Genotypes with the greatest asthma risk were F508del with an intron 10 T7 or (TG)11T5 in trans (aRR=1.52, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.12). This association was higher among children living in areas at or above (aRR = 1.80) versus below (aRR = 1.37) the current national air quality standard for PM2.5, though this difference was not statistically significant (pinteraction > 0.2). These results suggest carriers with CFTR functional levels between 25% and 45% of wildtype are at increased risk of asthma. Knowledge of CFTR genotype in asthmatics may be important to open new CFTR‐related treatment options for these patients.
Sleep quality in individuals with chronic low back pain and central sensitization
Authors: Aoyagi Kosaku , He Jianghua , Clauw Daniel J. , Sharma Neena K.
Published: August 2022

Background and Purpose

Sleep problems are common in individuals with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Central sensitization (CS) is present in a subgroup of individuals with CLBP. However, our knowledge about whether sleep quality varies between the subgroups of CLBP is limited. Therefore, we sought to examine whether the subgroup of CLBP with CS has poorer sleep quality than the subgroup without CS.

Methods

2011 Fibromyalgia Survey (2011 FM survey) was used as a surrogate measure of CS to divide the CLBP participants into two subgroups: CLBP with CS and CLBP without CS. We also created a CS index comprising a set of quantitative sensory testing measures (i.e., pressure pain thresholds, conditioned pain modulation) to evaluate pain sensitivity. Sleep quality was assessed with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Group differences about PSQI and CS index and associations between sleep quality and CS across the groups were analyzed.

Results

We included 60 participants with CLBP and 23 healthy controls (HCs). Overall, 80% of the participants with CLBP presented with poor sleep quality. Participants with CLBP with CS showed significantly higher PSQI scores (poorer sleep) than participants with CLBP without CS and HCs (p < 0.05). Both the 2011 FM survey and CS index were significantly correlated with sleep quality (r = 0.5870, p < 0.001 and r = −0.264, p = 0.04). Logistic regression models revealed that the FM status (odds ratio (OR) = 6.00, p = 0.02 [95% confidence interval: 1.31–42.1]), but not the CS index (OR = 1.11, p = 0.79 [95% CI: 0.48–2.71]) was associated with PSQI. After adjusting covariates, the results remained similar but became non‐significant for the FM status.

Discussion

We found that sleep problems were more common and severe in those who exhibited signs of CS. Thus, clinicians may consider using 2011 FM survey to identify those with CS and co‐existing sleep problems.
The application of magnetic resonance ultrasmall magnetic Fe3O4 nano bimodal contrast agent in rabbit orthotopic liver tumors
Authors: Yuhuang Wang , Kang Li , Chen Bai , Guodong Feng , Xiuming Zhang , Dan Shi , Yu Zhang , Nianlong Liu
Published: August 2022

To investigate the diagnostic value of ultra‐small superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles as dual modal contrast agent in rabbit orthotopic liver tumor. Twenty‐four New Zealand rabbits with orthotopic liver tumor were randomly divided into experimental group and control group. The experimental group contained 12 rabbits which intravenously injected with Fe3O4 nanoparticles and the control group contained 12 rabbits which intravenously injected with Gd‐DTPA. After injection, the cross‐sectional T1 and T2‐weighted scan images of experimental group and cross‐sectional T1‐weighted scan images of control group were obtained at the different timepoints (including 0, 5, 15, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120, 180, and 240 min) with a clinical 3.0 T MRI scanner. The SNR value of the tumor site and the normal liver site at different time points were calculated, respectively, and then the signal change value (CNR) of the tumor relative to the normal liver tissue was obtained. The r1 value of Fe3O4 nanoparticles was significantly higher than Gd‐DTPA (6.97 mM−1 s−1 for Fe3O4 nanoparticles and 4.75 mM−1 s−1 for Gd‐DTPA and only Fe3O4 nanoparticles exhibited the r2 relaxation rate which was 22.53 mM−1 s−1). In addition, the r2/r1 ratio of Fe3O4 was 3.23 which also demonstrated the strong MR relaxation characteristics of Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Compare with clinical used MRI contrast agent (Gd‐DTPA), the ultra‐small magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles not only showed the better T1 contrast enhancement but also exhibited the T1/T2 dual‐modal enhanced contrast ability, which could improve the accuracy and sensitivity of MRI diagnosis and realize the early diagnosis of diseases in prospect.
In vivo fluorescent screening for HPPD‐targeted herbicide discovery
Authors: Fu Yi‐Xuan , Zhang Zi‐Ye , Guo Wu‐Yingzheng , Dai Yi‐Jie , Wang Zheng‐Yu , Yang Wen‐Chao , Yang Guang‐Fu
Published: August 2022

Background

4‐Hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD), playing a critical role in vitamin E and plastoquinone biosynthesis in plants, has been recognized as one of the most important targets for herbicide discovery for over 30 years. Structure‐based rational design of HPPD inhibitors has received more and more research interest. However, a critical challenge in the discovery of new HPPD inhibitors is the common inconsistency between molecular‐level HPPD‐based bioevaluation and the weed control efficiency in fields, due to the unpredictable biological processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Results

In this study, we developed a fluorescent‐sensing platform of efficient in vivo screening for HPPD‐targeted herbicide discovery. The refined sensor has good capability of in situ real‐time fluorescence imaging of HPPD in living cells and zebrafish. More importantly, it enabled the direct visible monitoring of HPPD inhibition in plants in a real‐time manner.

Conclusion

We developed a highly efficient in vivo fluorescent screening method for HPPD‐targeted herbicide discovery. This discovery not only offers a promising tool to advance HPPD‐targeted herbicide discovery, but it also demonstrates a general path to develop the highly efficient, target‐based, in vivo screening for pesticide discovery. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Atrazine and estradiol effects on development of Acris blanchardi (Blanchard's cricket frog) exposed in outdoor enclosures
Authors: Windle Shauni , McMurry Scott , Brain Richard , Maul Jonathan , Wolf Jeffrey , Belden Jason
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

The herbicide atrazine has been proposed as a potential endocrine disrupting compound (EDC) for amphibians. Using atrazine concentrations below or at those typically found in surface waters (0.5, 5.0, 50 μg/L), we exposed Acris blanchardi (Blanchard's cricket frog) larvae throughout development until metamorphosis (i.e. Gosner stages 26–45). An additional 50 μg/L treatment (50s μg/L) was utilized where supplemented algae was added to control for indirect atrazine effects from reduced food sources. In addition to atrazine, experimental groups also included a negative control and two positive controls, 17β‐estradiol (E2) at 2.3 and 25 μg/L. At 60 days post‐metamorphosis, A. blanchardi metamorphs were euthanized for analysis of gross and histopathological development.

RESULTS

Atrazine did not significantly influence mortality (mean recovery of 54% across treatments), sex ratio, body mass (BM), snout‐vent length (SVL), gonad size, nor gonad development of A. blanchardi. Females exposed to 50s μg/L atrazine had 29% less mass, were 10% shorter, and had a 29% lower mean ovary area (mm2) as compared to negative controls, suggesting algae enrichment had a significant negative effect. Males exposed to estradiol (25 μg/L) showed an increased level of oviduct development. Ovary area was also significantly influenced by estradiol treatment at 2.3 and 25 μg/L.

CONCLUSION

Overall, estradiol had much less effect than predicted based on other model species (e.g. Xenopus laevis). Development of A. blanchardi, overall, was not affected by long‐term exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of atrazine. However, this species also was largely insensitive to exogenous estradiol in this test system. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Seasonal migratory activity of SPODOPTERA FRUGIPERDA (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) across China and Myanmar
Authors: Ge Shi‐shuai , Zhang Hao‐wen , Liu Da‐zhong , Lv Chun‐yang , Cang Xin‐zhu , Sun Xiao‐xu , Song Yi‐fei , He Wei , Chu Bo , Zhao Sheng‐yuan , Wu Qiu‐lin , Yang Xian‐ming , Wu Kong‐ming
Published: August 2022

Background

The fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) invaded Myanmar and China in 2018 and greatly impacted agricultural production and ecosystem balance in these areas. FAW is a migratory insect, but its seasonal migration pattern between the two countries has been largely unknown. From 2019 to 2021, we monitored the seasonal migration of FAW in the China–Myanmar border area using a searchlight trap, assessed the reproductive development status of female migrants and traced the migratory routes by trajectory simulation.

Results

FAW moths were trapped by the searchlight trap in Lancang County (Yunnan, China) all year, with obvious seasonal differences in the number caught. There were small‐scale persistent trapping peaks in spring and summer, and obvious peaks in autumn; only a small number of moths were trapped in winter. Examination of the ovaries of female moths collected in different seasons showed that most females had matured, indicating that the moths were migrating and did not take off from the local area. In the migration trajectory simulation, FAW mainly migrated from Myanmar to Southwest China in spring and summer and back to Myanmar in autumn.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that FAW migrates between China and Myanmar according to the monsoon circulation, which will help guide cross‐border regional monitoring and management strategies against this pest. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ultrafast analysis of peptides by laser diode thermal desorption–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry
Authors: Segura Pedro A. , Guillaumain Cédric , Eysseric Emmanuel , Boudrias Judith , Moreau Mégane , Guérette Cassandra , Clémencin Rémi , Beaudry Francis
Published: August 2022

Rationale

The COVID‐19 pandemic demonstrated the importance of high‐throughput analysis for public health. Given the importance of surface viral proteins for interactions with healthy tissue, they are targets of interest for mass spectrometry‐based analysis. For that reason, the possibility of detecting and quantifying peptides using a high‐throughput technique, laser diode thermal desorption–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LDTD‐QqQMS), was explored.

Methods

Two peptides used as models for small peptides (leu‐enkephalin and endomorphin‐2) and four tryptic peptides (GVYYPDK, NIDGYFK, IADYNYK, and QIAPGQTGK) specific to the SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike protein were employed. Target peptides were analyzed individually in the positive mode by LDTD‐QqQMS. Peptides were quantified by internal calibration using selected reaction monitoring transitions in pure solvents and in samples spiked with 20 μg mL−1 of a bovine serum albumin tryptic digest to represent real analysis conditions.

Results

Low‐energy fragment ions (b and y ions) as well as high‐energy fragment ions (c and x ions) and some of their corresponding water or ammonia losses were detected in the full mass spectra. Only for the smallest peptides, leu‐enkephalin and endomorphin‐2, were [M + H]+ ions observed. Product ion spectra confirmed that, with the experimental conditions used in the present study, LDTD transfers a considerable amount of energy to the target peptides. Quantitative analysis showed that it was possible to quantify peptides using LDTD‐QqQMS with acceptable calibration curve linearity (R2 > 0.99), precision (RSD < 18.2%), and trueness (bias < 8.3%).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated for the first time that linear peptides can be qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using LDTD‐QqQMS. Limits of quantification and dynamic ranges are still inadequate for clinical applications, but other applications where higher levels of proteins must be detected could be possible with LDTD. Given the high‐throughput capabilities of LDTD‐QqQMS (>15 000 samples in less than 43 h), more studies are needed to improve the sensitivity for peptide analysis of this technique.
New insights into pathogenesis of congenital pseudarthrosis of tibia in children using periosteum proteomics analysis
Authors: Liu Yaoxi , Qin Zhen Qi , Zheng Yu , Wu Jiangyan , Yang Ge , Tan Qian , Zhu Guanghui , Liu Kun , Mei Haibo
Published: August 2022

Rationale

The exact etiology and pathogenesis of congenital pseudarthrosis of tibia (CPT) are not clear. Quantitative proteomics analysis plays a vital role in disease pathology research. Tandem mass tag (TMT)‐based proteomics techniques were employed to identify and analyze the differentially expressed proteins (DEP) in the tibia periosteum tissues of CPT patients.

Methods

The samples were divided into three groups: CPT with NF1 group, CPT without NF1 group (non‐NF1‐CPT), and control group (patients with open tibial fracture). A fold change ≥1.5 or ≤0.66 and P‐value <0.05 were used as the thresholds to screen DEPs. Subsequently, bioinformatics resources such as online tools DAVID and String were used to generate gene ontology (GO) annotation, KEGG pathways enrichment, and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network for these DEPs.

Results

The results show that a total of 347 proteins were differentially expressed in NF1‐CPT groups, 212 of which were upregulated and 135 were downregulated. There were more DEPs in non‐NF1‐CPT groups; we identified 467 DEPs, including 281 upregulated and 186 downregulated. Among them, NF1‐CPT groups and non‐NF1‐CPT groups shared 231 DEPs, and the remaining 230 DEPs showed the same expression trend in the two disease groups, with 117 upregulated and 113 downregulated. In particular, 116 proteins were altered only in NF1‐CPT groups (94 were upregulated and 22 were downregulated), whereas 236 proteins were altered only in non‐NF1‐CPT groups (164 were upregulated and 72 were downregulated). Finally, compared with non‐NF1‐CPT groups, 47 proteins changed 1.5‐fold and P‐value < 0.05 in NF1‐CPT groups.

Conclusions

To sum up, we found that common DEPS in periosteum of NF1‐CPT and non‐NF1‐CPT groups are mainly involved in cell matrix assembly, cell adhesion, AKT‐PI3K signal pathway activation, and vascular agglutination, which indicate that these are the pathological characteristics of CPT. The osteogenic ability is weak, the osteoclastic ability is strong, the vascular lumen is narrow, the invasive growth and the proliferation of fibroblasts are enhanced in CPT patients.
Infrared pulsed fiber laser‐produced silver‐109 nanoparticles for laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry of 3‐hydroxycarboxylic acids
Authors: Kołodziej Artur , Płaza‐Altamer Aneta , Nizioł Joanna , Ruman Tomasz
Published: August 2022

Rationale

3‐Hydroxycarboxylic acids are one of the major components of bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS), also known as endotoxins. Endotoxins pose a serious health risk and can seriously damage the internal organs of humans and animals. 3‐Hydroxycarboxylic acids can be used as environmental markers to determine endotoxin levels. At the time of preparation of this manuscript no studies on laser mass spectrometry (MS) and analysis with silver nanoparticles (NP) for 3‐hydroxycarboxylic acids have been published in literature.

Methods

Six acids, 3‐hydroxyoctanoic (3‐OH‐C8:0), 3‐hydroxydecanoic (3‐OH‐C10:0), 3‐hydroxydodecanoic (3‐OH‐C12:0), 3‐hydroxytetradecanoic (3‐OH‐C14:0), 3‐hydroxyhexadecanoic (3‐OH‐C16:0), and 3‐hydroxyoctadecanoic (3‐OH‐C18:0) acids, were used as test compounds on the target containing silver‐109 NPs for quantification using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)–type mass spectrometer. Methods were also tested on spiked human blood serum samples to quantify 3‐hydroxycarboxylic acids and verify the influence of the biological matrix on the measurement.

Results

Analyzed acids were directly tested in 1 000 000‐fold concentration change conditions ranging from 1 mg/mL to 1 ng/mL. The semi‐automatic MSI (MS imaging) method allowed us to obtain two to five times lower limit of detection (LOD) and lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) values than common LDI (Bruker Daltonics, Bremen, Germany) method for analyzed acids. For almost all results of 3‐hydroxycarboxylic acids, the trendline fit was better for the semi‐automatic MSI method than the manual LDI method.

Conclusion

For the first time, the use of laser MS for the quantification of 3‐hydroxycarboxylic acids has been demonstrated, and it has been proven that it can be used in the quantitative analysis of such compounds over a wide range of concentrations. In addition, a comparison of two methods—manual LDI‐MS and semi‐automatic MSI—is presented.
A case of slowly progressive malignant pericardial mesothelioma suggesting the involvement of BAP1 loss
Authors: Fukasawa Naoto , Agemi Yoko , Shiba Aya , Aga Masaharu , Hamakawa Yusuke , Miyazaki Kazuhito , Taniguchi Yuri , Misumi Yuki , Shimokawa Tsuneo , Ono Kyoko , Hayashi Hiroyuki , Okamoto Hiroaki
Published: August 2022

Malignant pericardial mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare tumour that arises from the mesothelial cells of the pericardium. No standard treatment has been established owing to a poor treatment response; therefore, MPM has a poor prognosis. We herein report a rare case of MPM in a 70‐year‐old man that was diagnosed immunohistopathologically using cell block sections of pericardial fluid and in which long‐term survival for more than 3 years was achieved with only periodic pericardial drainage. Immunohistopathological staining investigations, especially BRCA1‐associated protein 1 (BAP1) immunostaining using cell block sections of pericardial effusion, are effective in making a diagnosis of MPM. Well‐differentiated papillary mesothelioma (WDPM) with BAP1 loss progresses to MPM in the long term, showing that BAP1 loss may induce phenotypical evolution of WDPM. BAP1 loss may also progress to malignant mesothelioma in situ and then to invasive mesothelioma. BAP1 immunohistochemistry should be considered for the early diagnosis of MPM.