bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracellular Sensing of DNA in Autoinflammation and Autoimmunity
Authors: MacLauchlan Susan , Fitzgerald Katherine A. , Gravallese Ellen M.
Published: June 2022

Evidence has shown that DNA is a pathogen‐associated molecular pattern, posing a unique challenge in the discrimination between endogenous and foreign DNA. This challenge is highlighted by certain autoinflammatory diseases that arise from monogenic mutations and result in periodic flares of inflammation, typically in the absence of autoantibodies or antigen‐specific T lymphocytes. Several autoinflammatory diseases arise due to mutations in genes that normally prevent the accrual of endogenous DNA or are due to mutations that cause activation of intracellular DNA–sensing pathway components. Evidence from genetically modified murine models further support an ability of endogenous DNA and DNA sensing to drive disease pathogenesis, prompting the question of whether endogenous DNA can also induce inflammation in human autoimmune diseases. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of intracellular DNA sensing and downstream signaling pathways as they pertain to autoinflammatory disease, including the development of monogenic disorders such as Stimulator of interferon genes–associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy and Aicardi‐Goutières syndrome. In addition, we discuss systemic rheumatic diseases, including certain forms of systemic lupus erythematosus, familial chilblain lupus, and other diseases with established links to intracellular DNA–sensing pathways, and highlight the lessons learned from these examples as they apply to the development of therapies targeting these pathways.
SCPA‐Net: Self‐calibrated pyramid aggregation for image dehazing
Authors: Chen Zhihua , Zhou Yu , Li Ran , Li Ping , Sheng Bin
Published: June 2022

Dehazing as an important image processing field has developed for many years, there exist many excellent methods for exploring more complex networks to solve this problem. In this paper, instead of designing a complex network structure, we propose a novel dehazing network based on the consideration of enhancing feature aggregation and feature representation abilities of dehazing architecture. Specifically, we propose a self‐calibrated pyramid aggregation network (SCPA‐Net) for image dehazing, which is based on an encoder‐decoder architecture. In the encoder, we build a self‐attention block as a unit to aggregate information from a neighborhood to adapt to its content. In the decoder, we introduce a self‐calibration block to capture long‐range spatial and channel dependencies to produce more discriminative representations. Finally, to learn the scale information, the pyramid upsampling structure is applied to aggregate the multiscale self‐calibrated attentive features. Experimental results show our SCPA‐Net can achieve impressive dehazing performance.
Therapeutic role of hesperidin in collagen‐induced rheumatoid arthritis through antiglycation and antioxidant activities
Authors: Ahmad Shafeeque , Mittal Shilpa , Gulia Rashmi , Alam Khursheed , Saha Tapan Kumar , Arif Zarina , Nafees K. A. , Al‐Shaghdali Khalid , Ahmad Saheem
Published: June 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic inflammatory disease, and its exact aetiology is not defined clearly. The free radicals produced in large amount in RA are associated with alteration in molecular structure resulting in glycation of proteins. As a result of glycation, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) produced. In this study, collagen type II suspension was injected into Wistar rats to make RA model of rats. Simultaneously, hesperidin 50 mg kg−1body weight was orally administrated to the rats for 21 days. X‐rays of the rat hind paws were analyzed and found to be significantly effective against bone loss after treatment with hesperindin. Nε‐(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) and pentosidine (PTD) concentrations in collagen‐induced RA plasma were determined as 565.29 ± 30.15 and 37.23 ± 1.02 ng ml−1, respectively, while CML and PTD in IgG were 6.63 ± 0.44 ng mg−1IgG and 425.33 ± 37.26 ng g−1IgG, respectively. After treatment with hesperidin, the elevated levels of CML in plasma and in IgG were significantly (p < 0.001) lowered to 450.95 ± 15.05 mg ml−1and 5.23 ± 0.27 ng mg−1IgG, respectively. Similarly, concentrations of PTD in plasma and IgG of rats treated with hesperidin were 28.46 ± 1.20 ng ml−1and 359.35 ± 31.11 ng g−1IgG, respectively. Thus, after treatment with drug, plasma CML and IgG PTD levels were restored as 93% and 16%, respectively, through free radical scavenging activity of hesperidin resulting in alleviation of RA disease by decreasing the AGEs concentrations. Therefore, use of hesperidin may be useful to alleviate severity of RA disease.
Myricetin Inhibits α‐Synuclein Amyloid Aggregation by Delaying the Liquid‐to‐Solid Phase Transition
Authors: Xu Bingkuan , Mo Xiaoli , Chen Jing , Yu Haijia , Liu Yinghui
Published: June 2022

The aggregation of α‐synuclein (α‐Syn) is a critical pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). Prevention of α‐Syn aggregation has become a key strategy for treating PD. Recent studies have suggested that α‐Syn undergoes liquid‐liquid phase separation (LLPS) to facilitate nucleation and amyloid formation. Here, we examined the modulation of α‐Syn aggregation by myricetin, a polyhydroxyflavonol compound, under the conditions of LLPS. Unexpectedly, neither the initial morphology nor the phase‐separated fraction of α‐Syn was altered by myricetin. However, the dynamics of α‐Syn condensates decreased upon myricetin binding. Further studies showed that myricetin dose‐dependently inhibits amyloid aggregation in the condensates by delaying the liquid‐to‐solid phase transition. In addition, myricetin could disassemble the preformed α‐Syn amyloid aggregates matured from the condensates. Together, our study shows that myricetin inhibits α‐Syn amyloid aggregation in the condensates by retarding the liquid‐to‐solid phase transition and reveals that α‐Syn phase transition can be targeted to inhibit amyloid aggregation.
Incidental detection of retained oil‐based hysterosalpingography contrast medium on postoperative postpartum radiography: A case report
Authors: Hayashida Harue , Furuya Kiichiro , Kurahashi Hiroki , Yamashita Saya , Chang Yangsil , Tsubouchi Hiroaki , Shikado Kayoko , Ogita Kazuhide
Published: June 2022

Hysterosalpingography is widely performed in assisted reproductive technology. We present a rare case of contrast medium retention which was incidentally found and mimicked a retained surgical instrument. A medical history of treatment for infertility can facilitate the differential diagnosis of abnormal findings on post‐caesarean section radiography.
On‐Surface Synthesis of Unsaturated Hydrocarbon Chains through C−S Activation
Authors: Giovanelli Luca , Pawlak Rémy , Hussein Fatima , MacLean Oliver , Rosei Federico , Song Wentao , Pigot Corentin , Dumur Frédéric , Gigmes Didier , Ksari Younal , Bondino Federica , Magnano Elena , Meyer Ernst , Clair Sylvain
Published: June 2022

We use an on‐surface synthesis approach to drive the homocoupling reaction of a simple dithiophenyl‐functionalized precursor on Cu(111). The C−S activation reaction is initiated at low annealing temperature and yields unsaturated hydrocarbon chains interconnected in a fully conjugated reticulated network. High‐resolution atomic force microscopy imaging reveals the opening of the thiophenyl rings and the presence of trans‐ and cis‐oligoacetylene chains as well as pentalene units. The chemical transformations were studied by C 1s and S 2p core level photoemission spectroscopy and supported by theoretical calculations. At higher annealing temperature, additional cyclization reactions take place, leading to the formation of small graphene flakes.
Room‐Temperature Synthesized Cd‐Doped Cs3Cu2I5: Stable and Excitation‐Wavelength Dependent Dual‐Color Emission for Advanced Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Qu Junfeng , Xu Shuhong , Cui Yiping , Wang Chunlei
Published: June 2022

With the development of intellectual properties, concern about advanced anti‐counterfeiting is accumulating, which conventional single‐modal luminescence can no longer satisfy. As one of rapidly developing 0D materials, copper‐based perovskite shows great potential to realize multiple luminescent centers for complex emissions. In this work, Cd was doped into Cs3Cu2I5 and showed resultant emission at 560 nm which surprisingly showed a red‐shifted excitation peak from that of intrinsic self‐trapped emission, resulting in excitation‐wavelength dependent emission. When the excitation wavelength increased from 290 nm to 330 nm, the emission of Cd‐doped Cs3Cu2I5 changed from deep blue to cold white and finally yellow. Afterwards, Cd‐doped Cs3Cu2I5 was mixed with polystyrene to prepare anti‐counterfeiting ink for silk‐screen printing. Meanwhile, Cd‐doped Cs3Cu2I5 maintains outstanding stability after doping, no matter under ambient, continuous UV radiation or high‐temperature environment. The intensity can be almost totally recovered after heating‐and‐cooling cycles. This study lays groundwork for future research into multiple luminescent center manipulation in 0D materials.
Understanding the Reshaping of Fluorinated Polyester Vitrimers by Kinetic and DFT Studies of the Transesterification Reaction
Authors: Lemouzy Sébastien , Cuminet Florian , Berne Dimitri , Caillol Sylvain , Ladmiral Vincent , Poli Rinaldo , Leclerc Eric
Published: June 2022

Vitrimers are a third class of polymers gathering the mechanical properties and solvent resistance of 3D thermosets and the reprocessability of thermoplastics. This unique behaviour is due to the triggering of certain covalent exchange reactions that allow the network to rearrange upon application of a stimulus. The constitutive feature of vitrimers is the adoption of a glass‐like viscosity during the rearrangement of the network, often due to an associative mechanism for the exchange reaction. Transesterification networks are one of the most studied type of vitrimers that usually require the incorporation of a catalyst, implying the associated drawbacks. Following up on a recent report on catalyst‐free transesterification vitrimers in which the ester functions are particularly reactive thanks to the presence of fluorine atoms in α‐ or β‐position, parallel DFT calculations and an experimental kinetic study on model molecules are presented in order to quantitatively assess the effect of neighbouring fluorinated groups on the transesterification reaction rate.
Barbier Hyperbranching Polymerization‐Induced Emission from an AB‐Type Monomer
Authors: Sheng Yu‐Jing , Su Min , Xiao Hang , Shi Quan‐Xi , Sun Xiao‐Li , Zhang Ruliang , Bao Hongli , Wan Wen‐Ming
Published: June 2022

Luminescent polymer materials have gained considerable research efforts in the past decades and are generally molecular designed by extending the π system of the polymer main chain or by incorporating chromophores into the polymer chain, which suffer from poor solubility, difficult synthesis, or multi‐step procedures. Meanwhile, according to the step‐growth polymerization theory, synthesis of hyperbranched polymers from an AB‐type monomer is still challenging. Herein, we report a one‐pot synthesis of nonconjugated luminescent hyperbranched polymer material via Barbier hyperbranching polymerization‐induced emission (PIE) from an AB‐type monomer. The key step in the realization of the hyperbranched polymer is bi‐functionalization of a mono‐functional group. Through a Barbier reaction between an organohalide and an ester group in one pot, bi‐functionalization of mono‐functional ester is realized through two‐step nucleophilic additions, resulting in hyperbranched polytriphenylmethanols (HPTPM). Attributed to through‐space conjugation and inter‐ and intramolecular charge‐transfer effects induced by polymer chain, nonconjugated HPTPMs are PIEgens, which are tunable by monomer structure and polymerization time. When all phenyl groups are rotatable, HPTPM is aggregation‐induced emission type PIEgen. Whereas, it is aggregation‐caused quenching type PIEgen if some phenyl groups are rotation forbidden. Further potential applications of PIEgen are in the fields of explosive detection and artificial light harvesting systems. This work, therefore, expands the monomer library and molecular design library of hyperbranched polymers through “bi‐functionalization of mono‐functional group” strategy, which eventually expands the preparation library of nonconjugated luminescent polymer materials through one‐pot PIE from nonemissive monomer.
Optically active polyimides with different thermal histories of their preparation
Authors: Sysel Petr , Hovorka Štěpán , Kohout Michal , Holakovský Roman , Žádný Jaroslav , Čížek Jan , Izák Pavel
Published: June 2022

Optically active linear polyimides and hyperbranched poly (amic acid–imide) were prepared by using procedures varying in particular in the maximum temperature employed in their synthesis. The two types of linear polyimides were based on 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride and 1,2‐diaminocylohexane enantiomers or 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride and 2,2′‐diamino‐1,1′‐binaphthalene enantiomers. The amine‐terminated hyperbranched poly (amic acid–imide) was prepared from 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride and 4,4′,4″‐triaminotriphenylmethane, and its end groups were modified with the chiral selectorsN‐acetyl‐D‐phenylalanine orN‐acetyl‐L‐phenylalanine. The final structure of the products was analyzed by IR spectroscopy, and their optical activity was evaluated and confirmed by polarimetry or circular dichroism.
Error analysis of TAS‐OSTBC assisted downlink NOMA system over generalized η−μ fading Channel
Authors: Mukhtar Shaika , Begh Gh. Rasool
Published: June 2022

Incorporation of multiple antennas in downlink non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) system helps in achieving better performance by exploiting different diversity schemes. To this end, we propose a general framework of transmit antenna selection (TAS)‐assisted orthogonal space‐time block code (OSTBC) transmission for multiple NOMA users. We derive exact expressions of probability density function of the TAS‐OSTBC processed signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) at the output of maximum‐ratio combiner of the NOMA users. Using well‐known moment generating function approach, we evaluate the error performance of TAS‐OSTBC assisted NOMA users over generalizedη−μfading channel in presence of perfect and imperfect successive interference cancelation. We investigate the proposed system in different multi‐antenna scenarios and accordingly observe better error performance of the users by increasing the number of transmit and receive antennas. We perform their asymptotic analysis leading to full‐diversity order at high SNR. For numerical evaluation, we truncate the infinite series in derived results and examine the upper bound of truncation error. We evaluatenth moment of the output SNR and obtain channel quality estimation index as a performance measure of the proposed NOMA system. Moreover, we investigate the influence of power coefficients and fading parameters,ηandμ, on the error performance of TAS‐OSTBC‐assisted NOMA users. We also compare the derived error performances with the existing schemes, wherein we observe that the proposed system shows remarkable improvement in the bit error rate (BER) of the NOMA users. For validation, we execute simulations which closely match with the derived analytical results.
Amino acid nitrogen and carbon isotope data: Potential and implications for ecological studies
Authors: Yun Hee Young , Larsen Thomas , Choi Bohyung , Won Eun‐Ji , Shin Kyung‐Hoon
Published: June 2022

Explaining food web dynamics, stability, and functioning depend substantially on understanding of feeding relations within a community. Bulk stable isotope ratios (SIRs) in natural abundance are well‐established tools to express direct and indirect feeding relations as continuous variables across time and space. Along with bulk SIRs, the SIRs of individual amino acids (AAs) are now emerging as a promising and complementary method to characterize the flow and transformation of resources across a diversity of organisms, from microbial domains to macroscopic consumers. This significant AA‐SIR capacity is based on empirical evidence that a consumer's SIR, specific to an individual AA, reflects its diet SIR coupled with a certain degree of isotopic differences between the consumer and its diet. However, many empirical ecologists are still unfamiliar with the scope of applicability and the interpretative power of AA‐SIR. To fill these knowledge gaps, we here describe a comprehensive approach to both carbon and nitrogen AA‐SIR assessment focusing on two key topics: pattern in AA‐isotope composition across spatial and temporal scales, and a certain variability of AA‐specific isotope differences between the diet and the consumer. On this basis we review the versatile applicability of AA‐SIR to improve our understanding of physiological processes as well as food web functioning, allowing us to reconstruct dominant basal dietary sources and trace their trophic transfers at the specimen and community levels. Given the insightful and opportunities of AA‐SIR, we suggest future applications for the dual use of carbon and nitrogen AA‐SIR to study more realistic food web structures and robust consumer niches, which are often very difficult to explain in nature.
Hybridization and low genetic diversity in the endangered Alabama red‐bellied turtle (Pseudemys alabamensis)
Authors: Moreno Nickolas , Heaton Andrew , Bruening Kaylin , Milligan Emma , Nelson David , Glaberman Scott , Chiari Ylenia
Published: June 2022

Pseudemys alabamensis is one of the most endangered freshwater turtle species in the United States due to its restricted geographic distribution in coastal Alabama and Mississippi. Populations of P. alabamensis are geographically isolated from one another by land and saltwater, which could act as barriers to gene flow. It is currently unknown how differentiated these populations are from one another and whether they have experienced reductions in population size. Previous work found morphological differences between Alabama and Mississippi populations, suggesting that they may be evolutionarily distinct. Other Pseudemys turtles such as P. concinna and P. floridana occur naturally within the same geographic area as P. alabamensis and are known to hybridize with each other. These more abundant species could threaten the unique genetic identity of P. alabamensis through introgression. In order to evaluate the endangered status of P. alabamensis and the level of hybridization with other species, we used mitochondrial and nuclear microsatellite markers to assess genetic variation within and among populations of P. alabamensis throughout its range and estimate admixture with co‐occurring Pseudemys species. In P. alabamensis, we found no variation in mitochondrial DNA and an excess of homozygosity in microsatellite data. Our results show genetic differentiation between Alabama and Mississippi populations of P. alabamensis, and low estimated breeding sizes and signs of inbreeding for two populations (Fowl River, Alabama and Biloxi, Mississippi). We also found evidence of admixture between P. alabamensis and P. concinna/P. floridana. Based on our results, P. alabamensis is highly endangered throughout its range and threatened by both low population sizes and hybridization. In order to improve the species’ chances of survival, focus should be placed on habitat preservation, maintenance of genetic diversity within both the Mississippi and Alabama populations, and routine population‐monitoring activities such as nest surveillance and estimates of recruitment.
Cultivating scientific literacy and a sense of place through course‐based urban ecology research
Authors: Valliere Justin M.
Published: June 2022

Undergraduate research experiences have been shown to increase engagement, improve learning outcomes, and enhance career development for students in ecology. However, these opportunities may not be accessible to all students, and incorporating inquiry‐based research directly into undergraduate curricula may help overcome barriers to participation and improve representation and inclusion in the discipline. The shift to online instruction during the COVID‐19 pandemic has imposed even greater challenges for providing students with authentic research experiences, but the pandemic may also provide a unique opportunity for creative projects conducted remotely. In this paper, I describe a course‐based undergraduate research experience (CURE) designed for an upper‐level ecology course at California State University, Dominguez Hills during remote learning. The primary focus of student‐led research activities was to explore the potential impacts of the depopulation of campus during the pandemic on urban coyotes (Canis latrans), for which there were increased sightings reported during this time. Students conducted two research studies, including an evaluation of urban wildlife activity, behavior, and diversity using camera traps installed throughout campus and analysis of coyote diet using data from scat dissections. Students used the data they generated and information from literature reviews, class discussions, and meetings with experts to develop a coyote monitoring and management plan for our campus and create posters to educate the public. Using the campus as a living laboratory, I aimed to engage students in meaningful research while cultivating a sense of place, despite being online. Students’ research outcomes and responses to pre‐ and post‐course surveys highlight the benefits of projects that are anchored in place‐based education and emphasize the importance of ecological research for solving real‐world problems. CUREs focused on local urban ecosystems may be a powerful way for instructors to activate ecological knowledge and capitalize on the cultural strengths of students at urban universities.
Mixed Valency vs Radical Bridge Formulation in Symmetrically and Asymmetrically Ligated Diruthenium Complexes
Authors: Mondal Sudipta , Schwederski Brigitte , Záliš Stanislav , Kaim Wolfgang
Published: June 2022

The asymmetrical dinuclear [{(trpy*)Ru}2(μ‐adc‐Salph)Cl](PF6) 1(PF6), trpy*=4,4’,4”‐tri‐tert‐butyl‐2,6,2’,6”‐terpyridine, adc‐Salph=1‐benzoyl‐2‐salicyloylhydrazido(3‐), and the related symmetrical dinuclear [{Cl(trpy*)Ru}2(μ,η2 : η2‐adc‐Ph)](PF6) 2(PF6), adc‐Ph=1,2‐bis(benzoyl)hydrazido(2‐), were synthesized and structurally characterized. Both paramagnetic compounds were compared with the previously reported symmetrical [{(trpy*)Ru}2(μ,η3 : η3‐adc‐Sal)](PF6) 3(PF6) containing the bis‐tridentate bridge 1,2‐bis(salicyloyl)hydrazido(4‐). Molecular structures and magnetic resonance features (1H NMR, EPR) indicate spin density distribution over the metal(s) and the bridging ligand. Reversible one‐electron reduction and oxidation were possible in all instances yielding comproportionation constants Kc of about 109 for the paramagnetic intermediates 1+–3+. Structural results, spin density distribution and UV‐Vis‐NIR spectroelectrochemistry were analyzed for 1+ with the help of TD‐DFT calculations for a model compound (tert‐Bu→Me). Intense absorptions around λmax=1450–1650 nm for the cations were assigned to mixed metal/ligand transitions with significant inter‐valence charge transfer (IVCT) character. For both the symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements the cationic intermediates can be described as considerably mixed metal/ligand systems.
Air flow and sediment transport dynamics on a foredune with contrasting vegetation cover
Authors: Bauer Bernard O. , Hesp Patrick A. , Smyth Thomas A. G. , Walker Ian J. , Davidson‐Arnott Robin G. D. , Pickart Andrea , Grilliot Michael , Rader Alana
Published: June 2022

Wind flow and sediment transport across a northern California beach‐foredune system with two adjacent vegetation types are examined for the same incident wind conditions. The invasive Ammophila arenaria was taller (c. 1 m) with denser coverage than the neighbouring Elymus mollis alliance canopy (c. 0.65 m), which consisted of a variety of interspersed native plants. Wind flow was measured with rotating cup and sonic anemometry, while sediment transport was measured using laser particle counters. Wind speed profiles over the two canopies were significantly different because of differing vegetation height, coverage density, and stem stiffness. In both cases, there was a lower zone of semi‐stagnant air (below about 0.3 m) that transitioned upward to a shear zone comprising the upper part of the canopy and immediately above. The shear zone above the Elymus canopy was relatively thin (confined to 0.3–0.5 m above‐ground) whereas the shear zone in the Ammophila canopy was thicker extending from a height of about 0.5h (h is average plant height) to about 1.5h. Vertical profiles of Reynolds shear stress (RSS) and turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) are consistent with the shear layer structure over these two contrasting vegetation canopies. The degree of topographically‐forced and vegetation‐enhanced flow steering was significant, with Ammophila strongly shifting the highly oblique (55°) incident wind to essentially shore‐perpendicular trajectories. In comparison, the shore‐perpendicular steering effect was not as pronounced for the Elymus canopy. Sediment transport intensity on the beach was continuous, but decreased progressively to the dune toe, and then dropped to essentially zero once the vegetation canopy was encountered (on the stoss slope). Overall, the study illustrates the significant differences in wind flow and turbulence conditions that may occur in contrasting plant canopies on foredunes, suggesting that greater attention needs to be placed on vegetation roughness characteristics in models of foredune morphodynamics and sediment transport potential.
Study on the in vitro digestion process of green wheat protein: Structure characterization and product analysis
Authors: Zhang Kangyi , Wen Qingyu , Wang Yufei , Li Tianqi , Nie Bin , Zhang Yu
Published: June 2022

In this study, the in vitro digestion process of green wheat protein (GWP) was explored by simulating the gastrointestinal digestion. The digestibility of GWP was 65.23%, and was mainly digested by trypsin. During the digestion process of GWP, large‐size particles are digested by pepsin, and medium‐sized particles are digested by trypsin into smaller particles; irregular large block structure with smooth surface was gradually turned into smaller blocks with porous surface; and the spatial conformation was loosened mainly by the unfolding of β‐sheet structure. Gel electrophoresis demonstrated that HMW glutenin and ω‐gliadins in GWP were completely digested, while LMW glutenin and α/β/γ‐gliadins were partially digested. Additionally, the peptide lengths were relatively dispersed after pepsin digestion. Most of the peptides (76.5%) fell into the range 3–15 amino acid after pepsin and trypsin digestion. The molecular weight (MW) of most pepsin digestion products was above 2000 Da, whereas the MW of trypsin digestion products was mainly concentrated in 500–2000 Da. Besides, the sensitizing peptide sequence of wheat protein was detected in the final digestion products of GWP. This research provided a theoretical guidance for the development and application of GWP.
Inflammatory leiomyosarcoma/rhabdomyoblastic tumor: A report of two cases with novel genetic findings
Authors: Sukhanova Madina , Obeidin Farres , Streich Lukas , Alexiev Borislav A.
Published: June 2022

Inflammatory leiomyosarcoma (ILMS) is a malignant neoplasm showing smooth muscle differentiation, a prominent inflammatory infiltrate, and near‐haploidization. These tumors have significant pathologic and genetic overlap with the recently described “inflammatory rhabdomyoblastic tumor (IRT),” suggesting that ILMS and IRT may belong to one entity. Herein, we describe two cases of ILMS/IRT with attention to new cytogenetic and sequencing findings. The tumors were composed of sheets and fascicles of variably pleomorphic tumor cells showing spindled and epithelioid to rhabdoid morphology and a prominent histiocyte‐rich inflammatory infiltrate typical of ILMS/IRT. In case 1, chromosomal microarray analysis showed a near‐haploid pattern with loss of heterozygosity resulting from loss of one copy of all autosomes except for chromosomes 5, 20, 21, and 22. Case 2 showed areas with high‐grade rhabdomyosarcomatous transformation. In this case, the low‐grade tumor component revealed a hyper‐diploid pattern with loss of heterozygosity for most of autosomes but with a normal diploid copy number state except for chromosomes 5, 20, and 22, which showed a relative gain. The high‐grade tumor component showed a similar pattern of copy‐neutral loss of heterozygosity with additional abnormalities, including mosaic segmental gains at 1p, 5p, 8q, 9p, 20q, and segmental loss at 8p. Next‐generation sequencing identified sequence variants in NF1, TP53, SMARCA4, KRAS, and MSH6. MSH6 variant was confirmed as germline, consistent with the diagnosis of hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) syndrome in one of our study patients and suggestive that ILMS/IRT might be part of the HNPCC cancer spectrum.
Automation and digitalisation of the geological documentation in tunnelling
Authors: Rabensteiner Stefan , Weichenberger Franz Peter , Chmelina Klaus
Published: June 2022

In tunnelling, the geological documentation comprises the daily recording and processing of various data for continuously assessing the geological–geotechnical conditions on‐site. One of the core tasks is the documentation of the tunnel face area. With Geodata's Tunnel Mapper, a new measuring system is presented enabling a highly automated data acquisition and the processing of a geo‐referenced three‐dimensional (3D) tunnel face model. Versions of the measuring system for both conventional and mechanised tunnelling have been developed. From the 3D model, high‐quality digital products as well as geometric and geological parameters can be derived, which serve as a basis for decisions on‐site. The data can then be integrated into the geological information system TUGIS.NET of Geoconsult, merged there with other data and further (geologically) evaluated, analysed and visualised. A spatial model that has been interpreted and quantified by the geologist can be established and used for target/actual comparisons and forecasts. The model can be transferred into building information modeling (BIM)‐compatible data structures for integration into an overall BIM model of the project. The further automation and digitalisation of the geological documentation and the full documentation (geometry and geology) of the face area are achieved in the interaction of the systems mentioned.
Ensuring face support and control in soft ground urban tunnels: FEM validation
Authors: Konstantis Spyridon , Prountzopoulos George , Spyridis Panagiotis
Published: June 2022

When designing and constructing a tunnel in an urban setting with the use of a closed face Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), the objective is to ensure both the tunnel face stability and the control of induced ground deformations within predefined, acceptable limits. Unless the exerted active face pressure will match the in situ ground stresses, there will be ground deformations taking place in the advance core, i.e., face extrusion and pre‐convergence, resulting in settlements or heave for active pressure lower or higher than the in situ stresses, respectively. This article presents the validation through finite element method (FEM) of an analytical methodology that can be applied on soft ground urban tunnels to assess the level of active face support to be considered in numerical analysis, to ensure elastic relaxation in the advance core and thus effective ground deformation control. The methodology combines the classic Anagnostou and Kovari method with the Convergence–Confinement method for face support proposed by Aristaghes and Autuori. In the current article, the methodology is described in detail and subsequently validated through three‐dimensional FEM analyses. The article concludes with a discussion on the results and the applicability range of the methodology.
Update on the management of canine cruciate disease
Authors: Corr Sandra
Published: June 2022

Background: Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease remains one of the most common hindlimb orthopaedic conditions seen in dogs, and although surgical management provides good outcomes, prevention remains the holy grail.

Aim of the article: This article presents a review of the current evidence and what has changed in the past 10 years to aid practitioners in decision‐making on the management of dogs with CCL disease.
Coagulation testing: what to do and how to do it
Authors: Sherry Kate , Gallagher Barbara
Published: June 2022

Background: Coagulation, or clotting, is the process of blood changing from a liquid to a solid form. Haemostasis is the stopping of blood flow, which occurs naturally to prevent blood loss after vascular injury. This happens through formation of a stable thrombus; however, it is also important that clotting is not excessive. To ensure a stable thrombus, prevent thrombosis or premature clot breakdown, a functioning balance between coagulation, anti‐coagulation and fibrinolysis is required; this process involves complex interactions between blood vessels, platelets, coagulation factors, various proteins and the fibrinolytic pathway. Imbalance in these pathways may result in spontaneous haemorrhage, uncontrolled trauma‐induced haemorrhage, delayed bleeding or thrombosis.

Aim of the article: This article reviews the haemostatic process, discusses the cascade and cell‐based models and emphasises the role inflammation can play in thrombin production in the absence of trauma. It outlines the commonly available coagulation tests, discusses their limitations and how to best use these tests to investigate well‐recognised haemostatic disorders.
The addition of a flange does not improve the pressure generated during cemented acetabular cup implantation
Authors: Boote Alexander T. , Deehan David J. , Rankin Kenneth S. , Swailes David C. , Hyde Philip J.
Published: June 2022

Flanged acetabular cups were developed with the rationale that, at insertion, they would increase the pressure of the cement and improve penetration of cement into the acetabular bone. Various studies have been inconclusive regarding their effectiveness. In this work, we aimed to eliminate all confounding factors and measure the pressures generated during acetabular pressurization and cup implantation using a simplified steel acetabulum, high precision pressure transducers, proper surgical techniques and two acetabular cups, identical apart from the addition of a flange to one. It was found that the flanged acetabular component did not significantly increase the pressure in the acetabulum and in some cases reduced the pressures generated when compared to an unflanged cup. The addition of a flange did not reduce the pressure differential between the pole and the rim of the acetabulum, nor did it have a significant effect on pressure lost over the cup implantation period. It was concluded that flanged acetabular cups provide no significant improvement in the pressures generated in the acetabulum during acetabular cup implantation. It is hypothesized that the flange may be seen as a design feature intended to slow the insertion of the cup into the cement, thus requiring the surgeon to apply a larger load in order to correctly position the acetabular cup; in this way larger pressure will be generated.
Demographic determinants of work deviant behaviors of rural community‐based primary school teachers: A structural equation modeling approach
Authors: Okeke Charity C. , Okeke Chinedu I. O. , Ugwuanyi Christian S.
Published: June 2022

Schools across the globe and especially in Nigeria have witnessed situations in which teachers work outside their work ethics. This situation breeds exhibition of work deviant behaviors among the teachers at different levels of education as evidenced in the literature. However, literature is scarce on the influence of teachers' demographic characteristics on their work deviant behaviors in primary schools. Thus, this study was necessitated to explore the determinants of work deviant behaviors of rural community‐based primary school teachers in Enugu State, Nigeria. This study was anchored on the affective events theory propounded by Weiss and Cropanzano. Basing the study on the quantitative research approach, a correlational survey research design was adopted using a sample of 254 rural community‐based primary school teachers. Necessary information for the study were collected using researchers' adapted questionnaire on work deviant behaviors with 28 items. The questionnaire items had an internal consistency reliability index of 0.87. Data collected were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression analysis and the structural equation modeling approach. It was revealed that among the demographic characteristics (age, working status, qualification, marital status, gender, years of teaching experience, and location) of the teachers, only age and qualification were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) related to work deviant behaviors. The implication of this study, therefore, is that the age and qualification of rural community‐based primary school teachers determine the nature of their work deviant behaviors. Thus, it was recommended that the age and qualification of teachers should be considered very paramount in the employment of teachers.
Effects of Renal Impairment on the Pharmacokinetics of Gefapixant, a P2X3 Receptor Antagonist
Authors: Nussbaum Jesse C. , Hussain Azher , Min K. Chris , Marbury Thomas C. , Lasseter Kenneth , Stoch S. Aubrey , Iwamoto Marian
Published: June 2022

Gefapixant, a P2X3 receptor antagonist, has demonstrated efficacy in patients with refractory or unexplained chronic cough. We investigated the effect of renal impairment (RI) on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of gefapixant 50 mg in an open‐label, single‐dose study enrolling participants with moderate (n = 6) or severe (n = 6) RI, end‐stage renal disease (ESRD; n = 6) under hemodialysis (HD) and non‐HD conditions, and healthy matched controls (n = 6). Serial plasma and urine samples for gefapixant concentrations were collected at selected time points over 72 and 48 hours after dosing, respectively. Linear regression analysis predicted a 1.87‐, 2.79‐, and 3.76‐fold higher exposure (area under the plasma concentration–time curve) for participants with mild, moderate, and severe RI, respectively, than that for healthy matched control participants. Categorical analysis exhibited a 2.98‐, 4.43‐, and 4.74‐fold higher exposure for participants with moderate RI, severe RI, and ESRD, respectively, than that for healthy matched control participants. Apparent oral clearance and renal clearance was lower in participants with various degrees of RI, by 66% to 90%, compared with healthy matched control participants, explaining the increased gefapixant exposure with increasing degrees of renal impairment. Gefapixant area under the plasma concentration–time curve and maximum plasma concentration decreased by ≈25% under HD conditions compared to non‐HD conditions. Single‐dose administration of gefapixant was generally well tolerated in this study. The data from this trial informed the enrollment of phase 3 clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy and safety of gefapixant in >2000 participants with refractory or unexplained chronic cough. Those efficacy and safety data, combined with analysis of population pharmacokinetics from across the entire development program, will be used to evaluate the magnitude of the renal impairment effect in the refractory or unexplained chronic cough population and to determine any dose adjustment recommendations.
An Open‐Label, Single‐Arm, Pilot Intervention Study to Assess the Efficacy and Safety of Apixaban in Heparin‐Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Farasatinasab Maryam , Balouchzehi Saeedeh , Moghaddam Omid Moradi , Ansarinejad Nafiseh , Mohammadi Mahmonir , Nasiripour Somayyeh
Published: June 2022

Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious adverse drug reaction due to its related risk of life‐ and limb‐threatening thrombosis. Apixaban is a direct factor Xa inhibitor that may be intended as an ideal alternative for the management of HIT. In this open‐label, single‐arm, pilot intervention study, the efficacy and safety of apixaban were evaluated in 30 patients aged >18 years with clinically suspected HIT (4Ts score ≥4 points). Patients with mechanical heart valves, chronic kidney disease, hepatic impairment, and active bleeding were excluded. In all patients with inclusion criteria, heparin or enoxaparin was discontinued and apixaban was started. The dose of apixaban for HIT suspected patients was defined on the basis of the reason for anticoagulant therapy. End points included confirmed thrombosis, mortality, and adverse treatment‐related events. After apixaban therapy, platelet counts normalized in all patients; none of the 30 subjects developed new, progressive, or recurrent thrombosis; and only 1 of 30 patients developed a hemorrhagic event. Five patients (16.7%) died, but the reason for death was not linked to thrombosis, hemorrhage, or adverse effects of apixaban. Along with the available emerging data, our results propose that apixaban could be a safe and effective drug for the management of suspected HIT in clinically stable patients.
The influence of interpersonal relationships on brand‐related behaviors for gifted brands
Authors: Carnevale Marina , Kachersky Luke
Published: June 2022

The present work studies a novel perspective on gift‐giving research by examining the effect of the giver–recipient relationship on the recipient–brand relationship. A study examining gift exchanges in real‐life relationships and two laboratory experiments demonstrate that the effect of the recipient's relationship satisfaction with the gift giver on self‐brand connections and, consequently, on brand‐related behaviors is conditional on the durability of the gift. The findings are robust to manipulating the durability of the same product category and using durable and nondurable categories of the same (actual or fictitious) brand. This research offers important implications for managers who position their brands as desirable gifts.
The forewing of a black cicada Cryptotympana atrata (Hemiptera, Homoptera: Cicadidae): Microscopic structures and mechanical properties
Authors: Li Qian , Ji Aihong , Shen Huan , Han Qingfei , Qin Guodong
Published: June 2022

Insects in nature flap their wings to generate lift force and driving torque to adjust their attitude and control stability. An insect wing is a biomaterial composed of flexible membranes and tough veins. In this paper, we study the microscopic structures and mechanical properties of the forewing of the black cicada, Cryptotympana atrata. The thickness of the wing membranes and the diameter of veins varied from the wing root to the tip. The thickness of the wing membranes ranged from 6.0 to 29.9 μm, and the diameter of the wing veins decreased in a gradient from the wing root to the tip, demonstrating that the forewing of the black cicada is a nonuniform biomaterial. The elastic modulus of the membrane near the wing root ranged from 4.45 to 5.03 GPa, which is comparable to that of some industrial membranes. The microstructure of the wing vein exhibited a hollow tubular structure with flocculent structure inside. The “fresh” sample stored more water than the “dry” sample, resulting in a significant difference in the elastic modulus between the fresh and dried veins. The different membrane thicknesses and elastic moduli of the wing veins near the root and tip resulted in varied degrees of deformation on both sides of the flexion line of the forewing during twisting. The measurements of the forewing of the cicada may serve as a guide for selecting airfoil materials for the bionic flapping‐wing aircraft and promote the design and manufacture of more durable bionic wings in the future.

Research Highlights

The distribution of the wing vein diameter and the wing membrane thickness indicated that the forewing of Cryptotympana atrata is composed of heterogeneous materials.

The wing membrane and the outer wall of the wing vein are the layered structure with multilayer fibers, which has a great significance for improving the ability of the forewing to sustain aerodynamic loads.

The elastic modulus of the wing membrane near the wing root is in the range of 4.45–5.03 GPa, which is comparable to that of membranes manufactured by industries. This is a suitable reference for selecting materials for making bionic aircraft wings.

We proved that the elastic moduli of the “fresh” and “dry” wing veins differ greatly compared with those of the wing membrane. Because the wing vein microstructure exhibits an internal hollow tubular structure with flocculent structure inside, the “fresh” sample stores more water than the “dry” sample.

The wing membrane near the wing root is thicker and reinforced by the main wing vein with a high elastic modulus. This renders the region near the wing root difficult to deform. The membrane far from the wing root is thinner and the elastic modulus of the nearby wing veins is smaller, making them more flexible.
A multi‐omics approach identifies pancreatic cancer cell extracellular vesicles as mediators of the unfolded protein response in normal pancreatic epithelial cells
Authors: Hinzman Charles P. , Singh Baldev , Bansal Shivani , Li Yaoxiang , Iliuk Anton , Girgis Michael , Herremans Kelly M. , Trevino Jose G. , Singh Vijay K. , Banerjee Partha P. , Cheema Amrita K.
Published: June 2022

Although cancer‐derived extracellular vesicles (cEVs) are thought to play a pivotal role in promoting cancer progression events, their precise effect on neighbouring normal cells is unknown. In this study, we investigated the impact of pancreatic cancer ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) derived EVs on recipient non‐tumourigenic pancreatic normal epithelial cells upon internalization. We demonstrate that cEVs are readily internalized and induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR) in treated normal pancreatic epithelial cells within 24 h. We further show that PDAC cEVs increase cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and that these changes are regulated at least in part, by the UPR mediator DDIT3. Subsequently, these cells release several inflammatory cytokines. Leveraging a layered multi‐omics approach, we analysed EV cargo from a panel of six PDAC and two normal pancreas cell lines, using multiple EV isolation methods. We found that cEVs were enriched for an array of biomolecules which can induce or regulate ER stress and the UPR, including palmitic acid, sphingomyelins, metabolic regulators of tRNA charging and proteins which regulate trafficking and degradation. We further show that palmitic acid, at doses relevant to those found in cEVs, is sufficient to induce ER stress in normal pancreas cells. These results suggest that cEV cargo packaging may be designed to disseminate proliferative and invasive characteristics upon internalization by distant recipient normal cells, hitherto unreported. This study is among the first to highlight a major role for PDAC cEVs to induce stress in treated normal pancreas cells that may modulate a systemic response leading to altered phenotypes. These findings highlight the importance of EVs in mediating disease aetiology and open potential areas of investigation toward understanding the role of cEV lipids in promoting cell transformation in the surrounding microenvironment.