bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New prognostic system based on inflammation and liver function predicts prognosis in patients with advanced unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab: A validation study
Authors: Tada Toshifumi , Kumada Takashi , Hiraoka Atsushi , Kariyama Kazuya , Tani Joji , Hirooka Masashi , Takaguchi Koichi , Atsukawa Masanori , Fukunishi Shinya , Itobayashi Ei , Tsuji Kunihiko , Tajiri Kazuto , Ochi Hironori , Ishikawa Toru , Yasuda Satoshi , Ogawa Chikara , Toyoda Hidenori , Hatanaka Takeshi , Nishimura Takashi , Kakizaki Satoru , Kawata Kazuhito , Shimada Noritomo , Tada Fujimasa , Nouso Kazuhiro , Tsutsui Akemi , Ohama Hideko , Morishita Asahiro , Nagano Takuya , Itokawa Norio , Okubo Tomomi , Arai Taeang , Kosaka Hisashi , Imai Michitaka , Naganuma Atsushi , Nakamura Shinichiro , Koizumi Yohei , Kaibori Masaki , Iijima Hiroko , Hiasa Yoichi ,   the Real‐life Practice Experts for HCC (RELPEC) Study Group and the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Experts from 48 clinics in Japan (HCC 48) Group
Published: December 2022

Aim

Recently, the neo‐Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), a composite biomarker determined by the C‐reactive protein level and albumin–bilirubin grade, was developed to predict outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients who undergo hepatic resection. The present research investigated whether the neo‐GPS could predict prognosis in HCC patients treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atez/Bev).

Methods

A total of 421 patients with HCC who were treated with Atez/Bev were investigated.

Results

Multivariate Cox hazards analysis showed that a GPS of 1 (hazard ratio (HR), 1.711; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.106–2.646) and a GPS of 2 (HR, 4.643; 95% CI, 2.778–7.762) were independently associated with overall survival. Conversely, multivariate Cox hazards analysis showed that a neo‐GPS of 1 (HR, 3.038; 95% CI, 1.715–5.383) and a neo‐GPS of 2 (HR, 5.312; 95% CI, 2.853–9.890) were also independently associated with overall survival in this cohort. Additionally, cumulative overall survival rates differed significantly by GPS and neo‐GPS (p < 0.001). The neo‐GPS, compared with the GPS, had a lower Akaike information criterion (1207 vs. 1,211, respectively) and a higher c‐index (0.677 vs. 0.652, respectively) regarding to overall survival. In a subgroup analysis of patients considered to have a good prognosis as confirmed using a Child–Pugh score of 5 (p = 0.001), a neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio <3 (p = 0.001), or an α‐fetoprotein level < 100 ng/mL (p < 0.001), those with a high neo‐GPS (≥1) had a statistically poorer overall survival than those with a low neo‐GPS.

Conclusions

The neo‐GPS can predict prognosis in advanced unresectable HCC patients treated with Atez/Bev.
Yoga for incarcerated youth: Lessons from the RITS and relevance for clinical practice
Authors: Hudziak Vicenta
Published: December 2022

The first time I taught a yoga class at the Rhode Island Training School (RITS), I opened with a body scan, both hoping to ground the students in the space and ground myself, as I wondered how they would receive this offering. There are known high rates of childhood trauma in incarcerated youth. Despite my training as a yoga teacher and teaching experiences before this residency, I was acutely aware of my inexperience teaching trauma‐sensitive yoga in this setting. I proceeded to pose a string of typical yoga instructor rhetorical questions in a calming, low tone of voice, to guide students into their physical sensations: “What body parts can you feel in contact with the earth? Where is your skin in contact with the cool surface?” when suddenly, from their supine position on the mat one of the students yelled out “My legs!” and another “My hands!” Well, this is new, I thought. And so began my own re‐training in how to teach yoga.
Harm reduction message is for all ages
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2022

Many young people are among the victims of opioid overdose, sometimes lethal overdose. This is why treatment is key, but also why harm reduction is a part of saving the lives of everyone, including people who may not be ready for treatment.
Novel application of intravascular lithotripsy in stent under‐expansion: A single‐center experience
Authors: Hinton Jonathan , Mariathas Mark , Chan Elizabeth , Patel Amit , Singh Satnam , Konstantinou Klio , Din Jehangir , Kodoth Vivek , Levy Terry , Swallow Rosie , Talwar Suneel , O'Kane Peter
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Stent under‐expansion due to calcification is associated with a less durable result. The development of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) has provided clinicians with a readily available, simple‐to‐use treatment option for coronary calcification, but the use of IVL within a previously stented segment is currently off‐license. There are, however, developing data suggesting that the use of IVL can be an effective treatment option for patients with calcific stent under‐expansion.

Method

This was a single‐center study of all patients treated with IVL for calcific stent under‐expansion between January 2019 and June 2021. The impact of IVL on quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) stenosis and on the minimal stent area (MSA) derived from intracoronary imaging were recorded. The presence of periprocedural complications and adverse cardiovascular events was obtained from the clinical record during the study timeframe.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients underwent IVL for calcific stent under‐expansion during the study time frame with one patient treated with more than one lesion in the same session. In all lesions, there was an improvement in the QCA stenosis with 37 (92.5%) having a residual stenosis of ≤30%. The mean QCA stenosis pre‐IVL was 68 ± 21% and following IVL the mean QCA was 18 ± 9% (p < 0.001). In all lesions, there was an improvement in the MSA, with 26 (92.9%) achieving an MSA of more than 4.5 mm2. The mean MSA pre‐IVL was 3.88 ± 1.51 mm2 and following IVL the mean MSA was 7.41 ± 2.34 mm2 (p < 0.001). There were no major procedural complications. Over a mean follow‐up of 506 ± 277 days, one patient died from ventricular arrhythmia but there were no other major adverse cardiovascular events.

Conclusion

This single‐center study demonstrates that IVL is a safe and effective treatment for calcific stent under‐expansion with good medium‐term results.
Short‐term dual antiplatelet therapy for 1–3 months after percutaneous coronary intervention using drug eluting stents: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Rout Amit , Sharma Abhishek , Ikram Sohail , Garg Aakash
Published: December 2022

Background

The optimal dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) duration and regimen in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using current generation drug eluting stents (DES) is still unclear.

Aims

To compare the safety and efficacy of short‐term DAPT (S‐DAPT) with longer duration DAPT (l‐DAPT) after contemporary PCI.

Methods

We searched for studies comparing S‐DAPT (≤3 months) followed by single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) with aspirin or a P2Y12 inhibitor against L‐DAPT (6−12 months) after PCI with current generation DES. Primary end‐points of interest were major bleeding and stent thrombosis (ST) at 1 year. Random‐effects meta‐analyses were performed to calculate odds ratios with 95% CIs.

Results

Eleven RCTs (n = 48,946) were included in the primary analysis. Major bleeding was significantly lower with S‐DAPT (n = 24,424) (odd ratio [OR 0.65; 95% confidence interval, CI 0.52−0.80]) compared with L‐DAPT (n = 24,486). There were no differences in ST between the two groups [OR 1.26; 95% CI 0.97−1.63]. There were no significant differences in risks of all‐cause death, cardiovascular death or myocardial infarction between S‐DAPT and L‐DAPT groups. In a subgroup analysis, there was borderline significantly higher ST with 1 month S‐DAPT [1.39; 1.0–1.92], but not with 3 months S‐DAPT [1.07; 0.70−1.64], when compared to L‐DAPT. Finally, there were no significant treatment interactions observed when trials using SAPT with aspirin were compared with those using P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy.

Conclusion

Among patients undergoing current generation DES implantation, S‐DAPT for 1−3 months reduces major bleeding without an increase in ischemic events compared with L‐DAPT. Three months S‐DAPT might provide a better risk‐benefit profile based on current analysis. Further study is needed to define the SAPT of choice after 1−3 months DAPT.
Porous heterostructure of graphene/hexagonal boron nitride as an efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen peroxide generation
Authors: Fan Mengmeng , Wang Zeming , Zhao Yuying , Yuan Qixin , Cui Jian , Raj Jithu , Sun Kang , Wang Ao , Wu Jingjie , Sun Hao , Li Bei , Wang Liang , Jiang Jianchun
Published: December 2022

Compared with the traditional heteroatom doping, employing heterostructure is a new modulating approach for carbon‐based electrocatalysts. Herein, a facile ball milling‐assisted route is proposed to synthesize porous carbon materials composed of abundant graphene/hexagonal boron nitride (G/h‐BN) heterostructures. Metal Ni powder and nanoscale h‐BN sheets are used as a catalytic substrate/hard template and “nucleation seed” for the formation of the heterostructure, respectively. As‐prepared G/h‐BN heterostructures exhibit enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward H2O2 generation with 86%–95% selectivity at the range of 0.45–0.75 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and a positive onset potential of 0.79 versus RHE (defined at a ring current density of 0.3 mA cm−2) in the alkaline solution. In a flow cell, G/h‐BN heterostructured electrocatalyst has a H2O2 production rate of up to 762 mmol gcatalyst−1 h−1 and Faradaic efficiency of over 75% during 12 h testing, superior to the reported carbon‐based electrocatalysts. The density functional theory simulation suggests that the B atoms at the interface of the G/h‐BN heterostructure are the key active sites. This research provides a new route to activate carbon catalysts toward highly active and selective O2‐to‐H2O2 conversion.
PtSnBi Nanoplates Enable Photoacoustic Imaging‐Guided Highly Efficient Photothermal Tumor Ablation
Authors: Li Xinhao , Hu Huijun , Shi Yu , Liu Yongchun , Zhou Min , Huang Zhaoxin , Li Jingchao , Ke Guoliang , Chen Mei , Zhang Xiao‐Bing
Published: December 2022

The development of photothermal agents (PTAs) with robust photostability and high photothermal conversion efficiency is of great importance for cancer photothermal therapy. Herein, a novel PTA was created using two‐dimensional intermetallic PtSnBi nanoplates (NPs), which demonstrated excellent photostability and biocompatibility with a high photothermal conversion efficiency of ∼61 % after PEGylation. More importantly, PtSnBi NPs could be employed as photoacoustic imaging contrast agents for tumor visualization due to their strong absorbance in the NIR range. In addition, both in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that PtSnBi NPs had a good photothermal efficacy under NIR laser irradiation. Therefore, the remarkable therapeutic characteristics of PtSnBi NPs make them a most promising candidate for cancer theranostics.
Effiziente Hoch‐temperaturprozesse
Authors: Wanker Jan
Published: December 2022

Dynamische Verfahren in horizontalen oder vertikalen Kontakttrocknern bieten für Hochtemperaturprozesse eine energieeffiziente Alternative zu Trockenschränken oder Drehrohröfen.
Im Wettlauf mit den Energiepreisen
Authors: Wettring Marcel
Published: December 2022

Besonders hohe Potenziale, um Energiekosten zu senken, bietet die Optimierung thermischer Prozesse. Durch gezielte Optimierungsmaßnahmen im Zuge der Leading‐Eco‐Solutions von Allgaier Process Technology können Energieeffizienz und Umweltverträglichkeit von thermischen Trocknungsprozessen deutlich verbessert werden.
Effizienz prüfen kann Kosten sparen
Authors: Reisner Timo , Strebel Maike
Published: December 2022

Gerade in jüngster Zeit gewinnt die Frage der Energieeffizienz durch den Anstieg der Energiepreise zusätzlich massiv an Fahrt. Der Industrie kommt bei der Einsparung von Energie neben den Privathaushalten, dem Gewerbe und dem Verkehrssektor eine besondere Bedeutung zu. Welche Bedeutung hat die Energieeffizienz von Prozesskühlern für die chemische Industrie? Und wie wird sie gemessen?
Liquid–liquid equilibrium and mechanism study on separation of short carbon chain hydrocarbon mixtures by Cyrene
Authors: Geng Chuanqi , Li Xinyu , Wu Xiaojia , Yu Hui , Zhang Fan , Zhou Zhiyong , Ren Zhongqi
Published: December 2022

The separation of short‐chain hydrocarbon mixtures is of great significance for the efficient utilization of fossil energy. Liquid–liquid extraction, as one of the commonly used treatment methods, has significant advantages in terms of operation conditions and energy consumption. As a new dipolar aprotic solvent developed in recent years, dihydrolevoglucosenone (Cyrene) has a wide range of sources and a green composition. In this paper, the liquid–liquid equilibrium and extraction mechanism of Cyrene and five hydrocarbon mixtures with short carbon chains, including toluene/n‐heptane, toluene/cyclohexane, n‐hexane/cyclohexane, n‐pentane/pentene, and n‐hexane/hexene, have been studied by combining experiments and quantum chemical calculations, and the extraction effects under different conditions have been investigated. The results showed that the forces between Cyrene and the different solutes are mainly van der Waals (VDW) forces dominated by dispersion forces, with some weak hydrogen bonds present. Due to the difference in interaction energy, the order of extraction selectivity was toluene‐n‐heptane > toluene‐cyclohexane > n‐hexane‐hexene > n‐hexane‐cyclohexane > n‐pentane‐pentene, and the order of distribution coefficients of the extracted components (aromatics, olefins, and cycloalkanes) was toluene > pentene > hexene > cyclohexane. The dissolution processes of all systems were heat‐absorbing, and they all reached the extraction equilibrium within 60 s. The reliability of the experimental data was verified using the Othmer–Tobias equation and the Hand equation, and the binary interaction parameters of all systems were obtained by the non‐random two liquid (NRTL) model, providing basic data and references for the subsequent studies on the separation of Cyrene and short‐chain hydrocarbons.
Coronary artery calcium and cystatin C for risk stratification of MACCEs and all‐cause death in symptomatic patients
Authors: Luo Fan , Luo Jun‐Yi , Liu Fen , Qiu Ya‐Jing , Tian Xin‐Xin , Zeng Lu , Zhang Zhuo‐Ran , Li Xiao‐Mei , Yang Yi‐Ning
Published: December 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the independent and joint associations of baseline coronary artery calcium score (CACS) and cystatin C (Cys‐C) with the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) and all‐cause death in symptomatic populations.

Methods

The study included 7140 patients with symptom of chest pain who underwent cardiac computerized tomography examinations to measure CACS. All of them had serum Cys‐C results. Endpoints were set for MACCEs and all‐cause death events.

Results

A total of 7140 participants were followed for a median of 1106 days. A total of 305 patients had experienced MACCEs and 191 patients had experienced all‐cause death. CACS ≥ 100 and Cys‐C ≥ 0.995 mg/L were independently associated with an increased risk of MACCEs (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.46; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15–1.85; p = .002 and adjusted HR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.24–2.00; p < .001, respectively). Compared with CACS < 100 and Cys‐C < 0.995 mg/L patients, CACS ≥ 100 and Cys‐C ≥ 0.995 mg/L patients had the highest risk of MACCEs and all‐cause death (adjusted HR: 2.33; 95% CI: 1.64–3.29; p < .001 and adjusted HR: 2.85; 95% CI: 1.79–4.55; p < .001, respectively). Even in patients with CACS < 100, Cys‐C ≥ 0.995 mg/L was also associated with a higher risk of MACCEs and all‐cause death than Cys‐C < 0.995 mg/L (adjusted HR: 1.76; p = .003 and adjusted HR: 2.02; p = .007, respectively).

Conclusions

The combined stratification of CACS and Cys‐C showed an incremental risk of MACCEs and all‐cause death, reflecting complementary prognostic value. Our results support the combination of the two indicators for risk stratification and event prediction.
Baseline extracellular vesicle TGF‐β is a predictive biomarker for response to immune checkpoint inhibitors and survival in non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: de Miguel‐Perez Diego , Russo Alessandro , Gunasekaran Muthukumar , Buemi Francesco , Hester Lisa , Fan Xiaoxuan , Carter‐Cooper Brandon A. , Lapidus Rena G. , Peleg Ariel , Arroyo‐Hernández Marisol , Cardona Andres F. , Naing Aung , Hirsch Fred R. , Mack Philip C. , Kaushal Sunjay , Serrano Maria Jose , Adamo Vincenzo , Arrieta Oscar , Rolfo Christian
Published: December 2022

Background

Immune‐checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are an effective therapeutic strategy, improving the survival of patients with lung cancer compared with conventional treatments. However, novel predictive biomarkers are needed to stratify which patients derive clinical benefit because the currently used and highly heterogenic histological PD‐L1 has shown low accuracy. Liquid biopsy is the analysis of biomarkers in body fluids and represents a minimally invasive tool that can be used to monitor tumor evolution and treatment effects, potentially reducing biases associated with tumor heterogeneity associated with tissue biopsies. In this context, cytokines, such as transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β), can be found free in circulation in the blood and packaged into extracellular vesicles (EVs), which have a specific delivery tropism and can affect in tumor/immune system interaction. TGF‐β is an immunosuppressive cytokine that plays a crucial role in tumor immune escape, treatment resistance, and metastasis. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the predictive value of circulating and EV TGF‐β in patients with non–small‐cell lung cancer receiving ICIs.

Methods

Plasma samples were collected in 33 patients with advanced non–small‐cell lung cancer before and during treatment with ICIs. EV were isolated from plasma by serial ultracentrifugation methods and circulating and EV TGF‐β expression levels were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Baseline high expression of TGF‐β in EVs was associated with nonresponse to ICIs as well as shorter progression‐free survival and overall survival, outperforming circulating TGF‐β levels and tissue PD‐L1 as a predictive biomarker.

Conclusion

If validated, EV TGF‐β could be used to improve patient stratification, increasing the effectiveness of treatment with ICIs and potentially informing combinatory treatments with TGF‐β blockade.

Plain language summary

Treatment with immune‐checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has improved the survival of some patients with lung cancer. However, the majority of patients do not benefit from this treatment, making it essential to develop more reliable biomarkers to identify patients most likely to benefit.

In this pilot study, the expression of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) in blood circulation and in extracellular vesicles was analyzed.

The levels of extracellular vesicle TGF‐β before treatment were able to determine which patients would benefit from treatment with ICIs and have a longer survival with higher accuracy than circulating TGF‐β and tissue PD‐L1, which is the currently used biomarker in clinical practice.
Associations of low sex hormone‐binding globulin and androgen excess in early pregnancy with fasting and post‐prandial hyperglycaemia, gestational diabetes, and its severity
Authors: Mustaniemi Sanna , Morin‐Papunen Laure , Keikkala Elina , Öhman Hanna , Surcel Heljä‐Marja , Kaaja Risto , Gissler Mika , Eriksson Johan G. , Laivuori Hannele , Kajantie Eero , Vääräsmäki Marja
Published: December 2022

Aims

We studied whether androgen excess and low sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) measured in early pregnancy are independently associated with fasting and post‐prandial hyperglycaemia, gestational diabetes (GDM), and its severity.

Materials and Methods

This nationwide case–control study included 1045 women with GDM and 963 non‐diabetic pregnant controls. We measured testosterone (T) and SHBG from biobanked serum samples (mean 10.7 gestational weeks) and calculated the free androgen index (FAI). We first studied their associations with GDM and secondly with the type of hyperglycaemia (fasting, 1 and 2 h glucose concentrations during the oral glucose tolerance test), early‐onset GDM (<20 gestational weeks) and the need for anti‐diabetic medication.

Results

After adjustments for gestational weeks at sampling, pre‐pregnancy BMI, and age, women with GDM had 3.7% (95% CI 0.1%–7.3%) lower SHBG levels, 3.1% (95% CI 0.1%–6.2%) higher T levels, and 4.6% (95% CI 1.9%–7.3%) higher FAI levels than controls. SHBG was inversely associated with fasting glucose, whereas higher FAI and T were associated with higher post‐prandial glucose concentrations. Women with early‐onset GDM had 6.7% (95% CI 0.7%–12.7%) lower SHBG levels and women who needed insulin for fasting hyperglycaemia 8.7% (95% CI 1.8%–14.8%) lower SHBG levels than other women with GDM.

Conclusions

Lower SHBG levels were associated especially with early‐onset GDM, higher fasting glucose and insulin treatment, whereas androgen excess was associated with higher post‐prandial glucose values. Thus, a low SHBG level may reflect the degree of existing insulin resistance, while androgen excess might impair post‐prandial insulin secretion.
Evolution of weedy giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida): Multiple origins and gene expression variability facilitates weediness
Authors: Li Bo , Gschwend Andrea R. , Hovick Stephen M. , Gutek Amanda , McHale Leah , Harrison S. Kent , Regnier Emilie E.
Published: December 2022

Agricultural weeds may originate from wild populations, but the origination patterns and genetics underlying this transition remain largely unknown. Analysis of weedy‐wild paired populations from independent locations may provide evidence to identify key genetic variation contributing to this adaptive shift. We performed genetic variation and expression analyses on transcriptome data from 67 giant ragweed samples collected from different locations in Ohio, Iowa, and Minnesota and found geographically separated weedy populations likely originated independently from their adjacent wild populations, but subsequent spreading of weedy populations also occurred locally. By using eight closely related weedy‐wild paired populations, we identified thousands of unique transcripts in weedy populations that reflect shared or specific functions corresponding, respectively, to both convergently evolved and population‐specific weediness processes. In addition, differential expression of specific groups of genes was detected between weedy and wild giant ragweed populations using gene expression diversity and gene co‐expression network analyses. Our study suggests an integrated route of weedy giant ragweed origination, consisting of independent origination combined with the subsequent spreading of certain weedy populations, and provides several lines of evidence to support the hypothesis that gene expression variability plays a key role in the evolution of weedy species.
Effects of climate‐change scenarios on the distribution patterns of Castanea henryi
Authors: Xie Chunping , Tian Erlin , Jim Chi Yung , Liu Dawei , Hu Zhaokai
Published: December 2022

Castanea henryi, with edible nuts and timber value, is a key tree species playing essential roles in China's subtropical forest ecosystems. However, natural and human perturbations have nearly depleted its wild populations. The study identified the dominant environmental variables enabling and limiting its distribution and predicted its suitable habitats and distribution. The 212 occurrence records covering the whole distribution range of C. henryi in China and nine main bioclimatic variables were selected for detailed analysis. We applied the maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) and QGIS to predict potentially suitable habitats under the current and four future climate‐change scenarios. The limiting factors for distribution were accessed by Jackknife, percent contribution, and permutation importance. We found that the current distribution areas were concentrated in the typical subtropical zone, mainly Central and South China provinces. The modeling results indicated temperature as the critical determinant of distribution patterns, including mean temperature of the coldest quarter, isothermality, and mean diurnal range. Winter low temperature imposed an effective constraint on its spread. Moisture served as a secondary factor in species distribution, involving precipitation seasonality and annual precipitation. Under future climate‐change scenarios, excellent habitats would expand and shift northwards, whereas range contraction would occur on the southern edge. Extreme climate change could bring notable range shrinkage. This study provided a basis for protecting the species' germplasm resources. The findings could guide the management, cultivation, and conservation of C. henryi, assisted by a proposed three‐domain operation framework: preservation areas, loss areas, and new areas, each to be implemented using tailor‐made strategies.
Interspecific differences in microhabitat use expose insects to contrasting thermal mortality
Authors: Vives‐Ingla Maria , Sala‐Garcia Javier , Stefanescu Constantí , Casadó‐Tortosa Armand , Garcia Meritxell , Peñuelas Josep , Carnicer Jofre
Published: December 2022

Ecotones linking open and forested habitats contain multiple microhabitats with varying vegetal structures and microclimatic regimes. Ecotones host many insect species whose development is intimately linked to the microclimatic conditions where they grow (e.g., the leaves of their host plants and the surrounding air). Yet microclimatic heterogeneity at these fine scales and its effects on insects remain poorly quantified for most species. Here we studied how interspecific differences in the use of microhabitats across ecotones lead to contrasting thermal exposure and survival costs between two closely‐related butterflies (Pieris napiandP. rapae). We first assessed whether butterflies selected different microhabitats to oviposit and quantified the thermal conditions at the microhabitat and foliar scales. We also assessed concurrent changes in the quality and availability of host plants. Finally, we quantified larval time of death under different experimental temperatures (thermal death time [TDT] curves) to predict their thermal mortality considering both the intensity and the duration of the microclimatic heat challenges in the field. We identified six processes determining larval thermal exposure at fine scales associated with butterfly oviposition behavior, canopy shading, and heat and water fluxes at the soil and foliar levels. Leaves in open microhabitats could reach temperatures 3–10°C warmer than the surrounding air while more closed microhabitats presented more buffered and homogeneous temperatures. Interspecific differences in microhabitat use matched the TDT curves and the thermal mortality in the field. Open microhabitats posed acute heat challenges that were better withstood by the thermotolerant butterfly,P. rapae, where the species mainly laid their eggs. Despite being more thermosensitive,P. napiwas predicted to present higher survivals thanP. rapaedue to the thermal buffering provided by their selected microhabitats. However, its offspring could be more vulnerable to host‐plant scarcity during summer drought periods. Overall, the different interaction of the butterflies with microclimatic and host‐plant variation emerging at fine scales and their different thermal sensitivity posed them contrasting heat and resource challenges. Our results contribute to setting a new framework that predicts insect vulnerability to climate change based on their thermal sensitivity and the intensity, duration, and accumulation of their heat exposure.
Synthesis, Structure and Reactivity of Organoindium 1,2‐Benzenedithiolates and 2‐Amidobenzenethiolates
Authors: Briand Glen G. , George Tanner , MacNeil Gregory A. , Masuda Jason D. , MacLean Brian J. , Mosher Michael W. R. , Sandala Gregory M. , Srinivasan Padmapriya , Stockli Alexander H. , Vanderkloet Rachel L. , Walsby Charles J.
Published: December 2022

Organoindium compounds of redox active 1,2‐benzenedithiolate and 2‐amidobenzenethiolate ligands were synthesized and tested for reactivity against mild oxidants. The reaction of Me3In and (NCN)InMe2 [NCN=2,6‐bis(dimethylaminomethy)phenyl] with 3,4‐toluenedithiol (H2tdt) at room temperature afforded [MeIn(tdt)(py)]2 (1) and (NCN)In(tdt) (2), respectively. A similar reaction of Me3In with 2‐aminobenzenethiol (H2abt) in toluene under reflux afforded [MeIn(abt)(py)]2 (3). The reaction of (NCN)InCl2 with one equivalent of Li2(abt) or two equivalents of Li(Habt) afforded the compounds [(NCN)In(abt)]⋅LiCl(thf)2 (4⋅LiCl(thf)2) and (NCN)In(Habt)2 (5), respectively. The X‐ray crystal structures of 1 and 3 are similar and show dimeric structures via μ‐S‐(tdt) and μ‐N‐(abt) ligands, respectively. Compounds 2 and 4 possess similar monomeric structures and tridentate NCN pincer ligands. DFT computational studies have been used to rationalize the observed solid‐state structures and discern the potential reactivity of compounds 1–4 against oxidants. The reaction of 1 and 2 with excess iodine resulted in loss of the 3,4‐toluenedithiolate ligand and the formation of the oligomeric disulfide [tdt]n, while 3 and 4 showed no reactivity under similar conditions. This contrasts the reactivity of previously reported organoindium o‐amidophenolate complexes which undergo oxidative addition of iodine to afford ligand‐centered radical species.
Regioselective and Scalable Total Synthesis of Licochalcone C and Related Licoagrochalcones
Authors: Dovhaniuk Nazar , Blahun Oleksandr P. , Sosunovych Bohdan , Redka Mykhailo O. , Vashchenko Bohdan V. , Grygorenko Oleksandr O.
Published: December 2022

A novel efficient method for the synthesis of licochalcone C in good yield on up to 30 g scale was developed. The reaction sequence included relied on the directed ortho‐metalation (DOM) of bis‐O‐MOM‐protected resorcinol for the regioselective C‐prenylation, followed by metalation‐formylation, selective O‐deprotection of a hydroxyl group located between the formyl and prenyl groups, its methylation, and aldol reaction with p‐hydroxyacetophenone. Synthesis of structurally related retrochalcones, i.e., licoagrochalcones B, C, and D, was also proposed.
Stereoselective Domino Heck‐Suzuki Reactions
Authors: Braun Manfred
Published: December 2022

Palladium catalysis enables efficient and versatile domino reactions that are initiated by an intramolecular Mizoroki‐Heck reaction and then terminated by a Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling. The stereochemistry of this cascade is concerned under three aspects: Firstly, as stereoselective formation of carbon−carbon‐double bonds, when the initial carbometalation occurs at an alkyne moiety. Secondly as diastereoselective and thirdly enantioselective formation of stereogenic carbon centers when the intramolecular Heck step is directed to an alkene moiety. Valuable protocols lead to – otherwise not easily accomplished – stereo control in the formation of tri‐ and tetra‐substituted double bonds according to the first conception. The diastereoselective versions permit the formation of multiple stereocenters in mono‐ and polycycles. Enantioselective protocols were developed only recently. The fact that the newly created stereocenters are highly‐substituted, tertiary or quaternary ones, makes the methods that are presented in this review useful and versatile tools in synthesis.
Comparing Equilibrium Concentrations of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Based on Passive Sampling and Bioaccumulation in Water Column Deployments
Authors: Burgess Robert M. , Cantwell Mark G. , Dong Zhao , Grundy James S. , Joyce Abigail S.
Published: December 2022

Biomonitoring at contaminated sites undergoing cleanup, including Superfund sites, often uses bioaccumulation of anthropogenic contaminants by field-deployed organisms as a metric of remedial effectiveness. Bioaccumulation studies are unable to assess the equilibrium status of the organisms relative to the contaminants to which they are exposed. Establishing equilibrium provides a reproducible benchmark on which scientific and management decisions can be based (e.g., comparison with human dietary consumption criteria). Unlike bioaccumulating organisms, passive samplers can be assessed for their equilibrium status. In our study, over a 3-year period, we compared the bioaccumulation of selected polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) by mussels in water column deployments at the New Bedford Harbor Superfund site (New Bedford, MA, USA) to codeployed passive samplers. Based on comparisons to the calculated passive sampler equilibrium concentrations, the mussels were not at equilibrium, and the subsequent analysis focused on evaluating approaches for estimating equilibrium bioaccumulation. In addition, a limited evaluation of metal bioaccumulation by the exposed mussels and a metal passive sampler was performed. In general, mussel and passive sampler accumulation of PCBs was significantly correlated; however, surprisingly, agreement on the magnitude of accumulation was optimal when bioaccumulation and passive sampler uptake were not corrected for nonequilibrium conditions. A subsequent comparison of four approaches for estimating equilibrium mussel bioaccumulation using octanol–water partition coefficients (KOW), triolein–water partition coefficients (KTW), and two types of polymer–lipid partition coefficients demonstrated that field-deployed mussels were not at equilibrium with many PCBs. A range of estimated equilibrium mussel bioaccumulation concentrations were calculated, with the magnitude of the KOW-based values being the smallest and the polymer–lipid partition coefficient-based values being the largest. These analyses are intended to assist environmental scientists and managers to interpret field deployment data when transitioning from biomonitoring to passive sampling. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:317–332. Published 2022. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Investigating the Relationship Between Career and Technical Education High SchoolCourse‐Takingand Early Job Outcomes
Authors: Olivera‐Aguilar Margarita , Kell Harrison J. , Ezzo Chelsea , Robbins Steven B.
Published: December 2022

This study examined how high school course‐taking patterns (i.e., career and technical education [CTE] vs. academic vs. no concentration), personal characteristics embedded in a social cognitive theory framework (e.g., self‐efficacy, academic expectations), and contextual variables (e.g., parental expectations, socioeconomic status [SES]) interact with each other in the prediction of students' income and job satisfaction 8 years after graduating from high school. Using a nationally representative data set (the Educational Longitudinal Study of 2002), we found significant differences by sex and course‐taking pattern in the prediction of income: Among men, CTE concentrators had the highest income, whereas among women, academic concentrators reported the greatest earnings. We observed similar levels of job satisfaction among academic and CTE concentrators. We also found that SES significantly moderated the effect of English self‐efficacy and academic expectations in the prediction of income and general effort in the prediction of job satisfaction. Our findings highlight how a social cognitive framework can be used to investigate the links between high school course‐taking, personal and contextual factors, and job outcomes. They additionally suggest the need to consider a broader set of outcomes for evaluating the benefits of CTE participation.
Effects of thermal and nonthermal processing techniques on aroma compounds in fruit juices: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Cheng Chuanxiang , Wu Yiwen , Yue Jin
Published: December 2022

Aroma compounds play important roles in juice flavor, and how some typical aroma compounds are affected by the processing techniques, in general, has not been unified. Thus, in this study meta‐analysis was used to evaluate the effects of the most widely used thermal (thermal pasteurization and high‐temperature short‐time) and nonthermal processing techniques (high hydrostatic pressure, ultrasound, pulsed electric field, and cold plasma) on four key aroma compounds in fruit juices: d‐limonene, (E)‐2‐hexenal, 1‐hexanol, and 1‐nonanol. Twelve studies were selected according to the set inclusion criteria, and the weighted response ratios (R*) calculated by a random effect model. The study demonstrated that cold plasma (R* = 1.08) and pulsed electric field (R* = 1.17) technique resulted in an increase of d‐limonene levels, and high hydrostatic pressure (R* = 0.95), thermal pasteurization (R* = 0.74), ultrasound (R* = 0.80), and high‐temperature short‐time (R* = 0.77) technique caused a reduction of d‐limonene. The nonthermal techniques can reduce the degradation of the aroma compounds and may induce some chemical reactions to produce more aroma compounds, so that the overall flavor is better maintained than that processed after thermal techniques. This study can help the juice industry to seek processing techniques that can optimize flavor quality.
Moringa leaves for improving the health benefits of quinoa fermented by probiotics
Authors: Abdelshafy Asem M. , El‐Naggar Eid A. , Kenawi Mohamed N.
Published: December 2022

This study evaluates the effect of supplementation with Moringa leaves powder (MLP) at the concentrations of 0.25% and 0.50% (w/v) as additional sources of prebiotics to produce healthier fermented quinoa products. The biological experiment was used to study the influence of feeding with these fermented quinoa products on the blood biochemical parameters in experimental rats. The results indicated that selected probiotics, including Lactobacillus plantaram ATCC 14917 and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus EMCC 11102 showed good tolerances to high acidity (pH = 2 or pH = 3), bile salts (0.3% w/v) and NaCl (7.5% w/v) and exhibited notable sensitivity against many antibiotics. Moreover, quinoa products supplemented with MLP at a concentration of 0.50% and fermented by both probiotics exhibited the highest counts of probiotic bacteria (9.32 and 9.12 log cfu/g, respectively) and showed more survival of probiotics than quinoa fermented without MLP (p > 0.05) during storage period. Also, the adding of MLP at both levels increased antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents of fermented quinoa by both probiotics, and the highest level exhibited highest values. Interestingly, fermented quinoa containing higher concentration of MLP showed the higher activity in improving serum lipid profile of experimental rats.
The new railway line between Köstendorf and Salzburg – Looking back to the past and forward to the future
Authors: Seywald Christian , Rettenbacher Martin
Published: December 2022

To increase capacity and reduce travel time for long‐distance traffic, the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB‐Infrastruktur AG) are planning a new railway line between Köstendorf and Salzburg. The centrepiece of the project is the Flachgau Tunnel – an approx. 16 km long, twin‐tube single‐track tunnel system. The selected tunnel alignment ‘'K5 optimiert'' was developed in a multi‐year route selection procedure. Further optimisation within the current design stage – the detailed submission – achieved a 200 m shortening in tunnel length. The chosen standard cross‐section was substantiated with life‐cycle‐cost and carbon‐footprint investigations which also coincided with experiences from the construction and operation of existing tunnel structures with varying cross‐sections and travel speeds. Both studies show the advantages of the larger 54 m2 cross‐section compared to a smaller 44 m2 cross‐section. Complex hydrogeological conditions require a water pressure‐tight tunnel design capable of withstanding a maximum pressure of approx. 11 bar. These conditions are especially challenging for conventional tunnelling methods and require a waterproofing concept with two independent sealing layers. At present, the construction of the project is scheduled to take place from 2027 until 2040.
Electrical stimulation accelerates Wallerian degeneration and promotes nerve regeneration after sciatic nerve injury
Authors: Li Xiangling , Zhang Tieyuan , Li Chaochao , Xu Wenjing , Guan Yanjun , Li Xiaoya , Cheng Haofeng , Chen Shengfeng , Yang Boyao , Liu Yuli , Ren Zhiqi , Song Xiangyu , Jia Zhibo , Wang Yu , Tang Jinshu
Published: December 2022

Following peripheral nerve injury (PNI), Wallerian degeneration (WD) in the distal stump can generate a microenvironment favorable for nerve regeneration. Brief low‐frequency electrical stimulation (ES) is an effective treatment for PNI, but the mechanism underlying its effect on WD remains unclear. Therefore, we hypothesized that ES could enhance nerve regeneration by accelerating WD. To verify this hypothesis, we used a rat model of sciatic nerve transection and provided ES at the distal stump of the injured nerve. The injured nerve was then evaluated after 1, 4, 7, 14 and 21 days post injury (dpi). The results showed that ES significantly promoted the degeneration and clearance of axons and myelin, and the dedifferentiation of Schwann cells. It upregulated the expression of BDNF and NGF and increased the number of monocytes and macrophages. Through transcriptome sequencing, we systematically investigated the effect of ES on the molecular processes involved in WD at 4 dpi. Evaluation of nerves bridged using silicone tubing after transection showed that ES accelerated early axonal and vascular regeneration while delaying gastrocnemius atrophy. These results demonstrate that ES promotes nerve regeneration by accelerating WD and upregulating the expression of neurotrophic factors.
Threats to Benefits: Assessing Knowledge Production in Nonhuman Models of Human Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Neuhaus Carolyn P.
Published: December 2022

Recent reports and papers on chimeric research highlight the promise of chimeric models of human neuropsychiatric disorders to ameliorate human suffering due to autism spectrum disorders, depression, and schizophrenia. These calls, however, typically do not acknowledge, much less address, criticisms of model creation and validation, or concerns about scientific conduct more generally. The ethical justification for the use of nonhuman animals in research depends on the production of benefits to humans based on such research. But the assessment and production of benefits are highly uncertain and rife with both practical and conceptual challenges. This essay provides a general framework for classifying the benefits of biomedical research and then focuses on two factors that directly impact—and threaten—the production of knowledge in research that models neuropsychiatric disorders.
Cross‐legged modification for medial sural artery perforator flap harvest
Authors: Feng Allen L. , Spector Matthew E. , Chinn Steven B. , Holcomb Andrew J. , Davies Joel C. , Richmon Jeremy D. , Lin Derrick T. , Varvares Mark A.
Published: December 2022

When thin and pliable free tissue is needed, the medial sural artery perforator (MSAP) flap provides an excellent option with minimal donor site morbidity. However, among its pitfalls include difficult patient positioning and surgeon ergonomics throughout the harvest. We describe a novel positioning technique that may significantly improve surgeon ergonomics and ease of MSAP flap harvest. A cross‐legged modification may eliminate many of the issues associated with the classic frog‐leg position. While the patient is cross‐legged, the surgeon is afforded a normal field of view that is closer to their body, while simultaneously providing support to the lateral side of the gastrocnemius muscle. This pictorial essay describes this positioning technique and subsequent harvest. By incorporating a more ergonomic cross‐legged position during flap elevation, many of thedrawbacks of the MSAP flap could be eliminated.
Bio‐secure bubble during the COVID‐19 pandemic to host the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Al Musleh AbdulWahab Abubaker , Asim Mohammad , Abdurahiman Sameer , El‐Menyar Ayman , Khan Naushad Ahmad , Al‐Thani Hassan
Published: December 2022

Background and Aims

To describe the COVID‐19 positivity rate among football players, team staff, and local organizing committee members participated in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League (West) tournament organized with the Bio‐secure bubble protocol in place.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was carried out to include a total of 2184 participants during the AFC‐West tournament in Qatar, which was a 3‐week event (September 14–October 3, 2020). This event was undertaken under the Bio‐secure bubble protocol, which was developed and implemented for sports events in Qatar during the pandemic. Within 72 h of departure and upon arrival in Qatar, all participants underwent reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction testing (RT‐PCR) to diagnose COVID‐19. The test was considered positive based on the cycle threshold (cT) value which was <30, whereas, reactive if cT value was ≥30 and <40, and negative (cT > 40).

Results

Of the 2184 participants (528 players, 388 team staff, and 1268 local staff), 916 international participants were tested for COVID‐19 PCR upon arrival at the Hamad International Airport, whereas the local staff (n = 1268) were tested 2 days before entering the bubble. The mean age of the players was 27.5 ± 9.8. Fifteen teams participated and as many as 60 matches were played over 3 weeks. Most participants tested negative (95.3%) and 3.9% tests were inconclusive. During the entire tournament, the positivity rate was 2.7% among all participants. Of the total positive cases, 0.8% were positive before entering the bubble system. The remaining (1.9%) tested positive during the tournament phase (19 players, 16 team officials, and 8 organizing committee staff).

Conclusion

Bio‐secure bubble protocol operated in a controlled environment presents a minimal risk of COVID‐19 infection for hosting international football events. This framework could be benchmarked to resume professional football competitions under unprecedented pandemic situations.
Hsa_circ_0000119 promoted ovarian cancer development via enhancing the methylation of CDH13 by sponging miR‐142‐5p
Authors: Ma Guiyan , Li Yan , Meng Fandong , Sui Chengguang , Wang Yang , Cheng Dali
Published: December 2022

Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of gynecological cancer‐related death in women, and is difficult to treat. The aim of our study is to explore the role and action mechanism of hsa_circ_0000119 in ovarian cancer, thus to analyze whether the circular RNA is a potential target for the treatment of the disease. In this present study, our data shows that hsa_circ_0000119 and DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) was increased, while miR‐142‐5p was decreased in ovarian cancer. Overexpression of hsa_circ_0000119 promoted tumor growth, while silencing of hsa_circ_0000119 resulted in an opposite effects. Decreasing of hsa_circ_0000119 also notably inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of the ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, the data proves that hsa_circ_0000119 negatively regulated miR‐142‐5p and cadherin 13 (CDH13) expression, but positively regulated DNMT1 expression. miR‐142‐5p could interact with hsa_circ_0000119 and DNMT1 3′‐UTR. Silencing of DNMT1 could reverse the inhibition of hsa_circ_0000119 to miR‐142‐5p and CDH13 expression. Importantly, higher level of CDH13 promoter methylation existed in the ovarian tumors than that in matched normal tissues. DNA methyltransferase inhibitor could increase the expression of CDH13 in ovarian cancer cells. In addition, our results also prove that increasing of CDH13 or miR‐142‐5p effectively reversed the inhibition of hsa _circ_0000119 to the cell malignant phenotypes. Overall, our data demonstrate that hsa_circ_0000119 facilitated ovarian cancer development through increasing CDH13 expression via promoting DNMT1 expression by sponging miR‐142‐5p. Our data demonstrate the potential role of hsa_circ_0000119 in the treatment of ovarian cancer.