bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The antibacterial activity and silk dyeing of the crude pigment extract from J4 actinobacteria strain
Authors: Urtgam Sittichai , Sumpradit Tawatchai , Thurnkul Naruemol
Published: July 2023

Actinobacteria represent a vast variety of prokaryotic microbes that produce a diverse group of secondary metabolites used in medical, agricultural, and industrial applications. The objectives in this study were to investigate the antibacterial activities and potential for silk dyeing of the crude extract from the actinobacterial strain J4. Initially, the antibacterial activities of the crude pigment extracts obtained from the actinobacterial strain J4 isolated from the wasp’s nest were determined. To extract the water-insoluble pigments used for antibacterial activity testing via the agar well diffusion method, ethyl acetate was applied during the pigment extraction. These extracts showed an inhibitory effect against Salmonella Typhimurium TISTR1472, Bacillus subtilis PSRU-01, and Enterococcus faecalis TISTR459. Secondly, evaluation of silk dyeing was carried out. We used the extractant as 70 % (v/v) ethanol in the alternative extraction process when the strain J4 was cultivated by solid-state fermentation with broken-milled rice to prepare actinobacterial dye for silk dyeing. The pigment extract obtained was tested for color stability based on washing methods, and the sensitivity to light was determined according to ISO105-C06:2010(E) and ISO 105-B02:2014(E), respectively. The color stability and sensitivity of the pigment extract to washing showed scores between 3-5, and the sensitivity to light demonstrated scores between 3-4. Taxonomically, the strain J4 was dark-violet colonies, and its water-soluble pigment diffused on sodium caseinate agar (SCA). To identify the strain J4, the phylogenetic identification based on partial sequencing of 16S rDNA was applied. The identification result indicated that the strain J4 was closely related to Streptomyces coacervatus (99.8% sequence similarity). In future, antibacterial activities of the crude extracts obtained from actinobacteria strain J4 should be tested with other food-borne pathogens. The development of Streptomyces dyes should also focus on the stability of the dyes during the silk dyeing process.
État des connaissances sur la santé et les services de santé aux aînés francophones en contexte linguistique minoritaire
Authors: Bouchard Louise , Savard Jacinthe , Renaud Alexandre
Published: July 2023

La recherche en santé sur les communautés de langue officielle en situation minoritaire (CLOSM) a connu un essor remarquable ces deux dernières décennies. L’objectif de cet article est de présenter un état des lieux de la recherche effectuée sur la problématique de la santé et des soins destinés aux personnes âgées francophones en situation linguistique minoritaire. Différents thèmes sont abordés tels que la santé et ses déterminants, l’expérience des usagers quant à la langue des services, l’environnement légal et politique des services en français, l’organisation des services et la performance du système de santé. Cette synthèse évaluative de la recherche vise à fournir un outil de mobilisation des connaissances et des pistes d’action pour mieux répondre aux besoins des populations aînées et pour améliorer l’offre de services.
Improving Drug Courts: A Preliminary Study
Authors: J. Chriss James , F. Tedor Miyuki
Published: July 2023

Since the early 1980s, specialized problem-solving courts known as drug courts emerged in the United States as a response to the backlog of drug and alcohol-related cases plaguing the U.S. criminal justice system. In a few decades, with the seeming success of the drug court in helping AOD defendants achieve sobriety while reducing recidivism, the drug court model has achieved international prominence as well. This paper discusses a pilot study which seeks to analyze the feasibility of connecting a website, drughelp.care, developed at the host institution of the co-authors, to the everyday operations of local drug courts. Talcott Parsons’ AGIL schema is utilized as a conceptual template for organizing our thinking about how the website could improve services to administrators and clients according to the unique functional elements of the drug court.
Harassment, Aggression, Violence and Road Safety from a Criminological Perspective
Authors: Gómez García Laura
Published: July 2023

Road violence is a major problem that does not yet have a universally accepted definition. It is important to consider violence in the context of the road in order to prevent it. Road criminology focuses on the study and prevention of traffic- related deviations and problems generated after and accident. There is a lack of general knowledge about the reality of crime in the road environment; the society is not aware that certain behaviours of harassment and aggression cause risky situations and fatal results. It is essential to address the problem, defining and delimiting it to combat it. Education is once again essential to prevent crime and to put an end to social permissiveness around unacceptable behaviour related to road safety.
Unlocking the Power of Crowds: Exploring Crowdsourcing and Crowdfunding Initiatives in Europe
Authors: Zhezha Vaeld
Published: July 2023

The world of crowdsourcing and crowdfunding in Europe is a dynamic and transformative space that has been significantly impacted by the rapid growth of digital technologies. This innovative approach has become a game-changer for entrepreneurs, startups, and creative individuals as it harnesses the collective intelligence and financial support of people. Various platforms and mechanisms are driving crowdsourcing and crowdfunding initiatives in Europe, leading to success stories, emerging trends, and potential benefits for all partecipants. This article aims to analyze some of the various emerging trends in crowdsourcing and crowdfunding across Europe while highlighting their potential benefits for those seeking funding or collaboration opportunities. It further examines both crowdsourcing and crowdfunding advantages & disadvantages. Ultimately, this article aims to unlock the full potential of collaboration between people from diverse backgrounds by exploring ways to leverage crowdsourcing & crowdfunding effectively.
Bilateral Trade and Strategic Rivalry
Authors: Dishkant Ksenia
Published: July 2023

Conflict is a costly endeavor. However, conflict itself is of unobservable magnitude which makes statistical inference problematic. The long-run economic cost of conflict is calculated as the sum of the contemporaneous costs and the discounted value of future costs. Typically, researchers use War or Militarized Interstate Conflicts as independent, discrete events to calculate its contemporaneous effect and then introduce a time binary variable to estimate the lagged effects since the end of the event. The conflict datasets accurately recognize the dates of the core conflict. However, they ignore the possibility that a lack of militarized conflict does not necessarily mean that issues have been settled, thus we are underestimating overall costs. The present study estimates the economic costs of rivalry. The international rivalry cycle is a process in which a pair of states create and sustain a relationship of atypical hostility for some period. This paper is part of the renaissance of research activity in the applied economics of international trade. The gravity model is used to determine the economic cost of Rivalry on bilateral trade using panel data. At the aggregate level, strategic and enduring rivalries have a negative and significant effect on trade flow. The results show that the total effect of rivalry accounts for 48%-57% of the fall in bilateral trade volume, which is equivalent in cost to 19% of the ad-valorem tax. If the rivalry is disaggregated by claim type: spatial, positional, and mixed, then we observe that the cost varies substantially with the type. Spatial rivalry explains 16%-26% of the fall in trade volume, while positional and mixed rivalry explain 49%-57% and 77%-82%, respectively.
Importance of the Libraries in Kosovo Prisons
Authors: Gashi Ergin
Published: July 2023

This study aims to present the importance and current situation of the libraries in Kosovo Correctional Service; their function and effect on prisoners’ daily lives, rehabilitation, well-being and informal education. To reach this purpose three questions were raised: Do libraries help with prisoners’ informal learning, rehabilitation and reintegration in KCS? Are the prisoners willing to loan books from prison libraries? Do prison libraries in Kosovo offer enough books in different languages for prisoners who come from different ethnic and religious backgrounds? This research is presented through qualitative data, a literature review and interviews as instruments of the research dedicated to prison libraries within KCS and their effect on prisoners’ wellbeing and education. The study results showed that prison libraries impact positively the lives of the incarcerated population while they are paying their debts to society in Kosovo prisons for the crimes committed. Prisoners are eager to borrow medium number of books present in different languages and genres offered to them within Correctional and Detention centers all around Kosovo.
Characterization of defects in CIGSe solar cells through admittance spectroscopy
Authors: Tian Xiao-Rang , Jia Rui ,   Institute of Microelectronics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China
Published: July 2023

We use admittance spectroscopy to characterize the energy distribution of defects in CIGSe solar cells before and after annealing to investigate the mechanism of the annealing process improving the performances of solar cells. In this work, we anneal the prepared CIGSe solar cells in compressed air at 150 ℃ for 10 min. We measure dark I-V, C-V, admittance spectra, and illumination I-V tests on CIGSe solar cells before and after annealing to characterize the changes in the performances of solar cells before and after annealing, respectively. The test results of dark I-V characteristics show that the reverse dark current of CIGSe solar cell decreases by about an order of magnitude after annealing, and the ideal factor of the cell also decreases from 2.16 (before annealing) to 1.85 (after annealing). This means that the annealing process reduces the recombination of carriers in CIGSe solar cell. Under reverse bias, the capacitance of CIGSe solar cell is higher than that after annealing, and its C-V characteristics linearly fitted with 1/C 2 vs. V. The fitting results show that the slope of the curve increases after annealing, which means that the annealing process results in a decrease in the free carrier concentration in the absorption layer of CIGSe solar cell, specifically, the carrier concentration contributed by defects after annealing decreases. In addition, the built-in potential before and after annealing of CIGSe solar cell are also obtained through fitting, which are 0.52 V and 0.64 V in value, respectively. The admittance spectrum test results of CIGSe solar cell before and after annealing show that the defect activation energy in the absorption layer significantly decreases after annealing, but the defect concentration remains almost unchanged. The decrease in defect activation energy means that the Shockley Read Hall (SRH) recombination probability of defects in copper indium gallium selenium solar cell decreases. In addition, the test results of the optical I-V characteristics of the battery indicate that the open circuit voltage and parallel resistance of the solar cell significantly increase after annealing, which is consistent with the test results of the dark I-V characteristics, C-V characteristics, and admittance spectroscopy of the solar cell. Therefore, the annealing process of CIGSe solar cells leads to theweakening of the SRH recombination of carriers in the absorption layer of the cell, thereby improving the performance of the solar cell.
Metabolic clogging of mannose triggers dNTP loss and genomic instability in human cancer cells
Authors: Harada Yoichiro , Mizote Yu , Suzuki Takehiro , Hirayama Akiyoshi , Ikeda Satsuki , Nishida Mikako , Hiratsuka Toru , Ueda Ayaka , Imagawa Yusuke , Maeda Kento , Ohkawa Yuki , Murai Junko , Freeze Hudson H , Miyoshi Eiji , Higashiyama Shigeki , Udono Heiichiro , Dohmae Naoshi , Tahara Hideaki , Taniguchi Naoyuki
Published: July 2023

Mannose has anticancer activity that inhibits cell proliferation and enhances the efficacy of chemotherapy. How mannose exerts its anticancer activity, however, remains poorly understood. Here, using genetically engineered human cancer cells that permit the precise control of mannose metabolic flux, we demonstrate that the large influx of mannose exceeding its metabolic capacity induced metabolic remodeling, leading to the generation of slow-cycling cells with limited deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs). This metabolic remodeling impaired dormant origin firing required to rescue stalled forks by cisplatin, thus exacerbating replication stress. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of de novo dNTP biosynthesis was sufficient to retard cell cycle progression, sensitize cells to cisplatin, and inhibit dormant origin firing, suggesting dNTP loss-induced genomic instability as a central mechanism for the anticancer activity of mannose.
Genetic insights into ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the spine
Authors: Koike Yoshinao , Takahata Masahiko , Nakajima Masahiro , Otomo Nao , Suetsugu Hiroyuki , Liu Xiaoxi , Endo Tsutomu , Imagama Shiro , Kobayashi Kazuyoshi , Kaito Takashi , Kato Satoshi , Kawaguchi Yoshiharu , Kanayama Masahiro , Sakai Hiroaki , Tsuji Takashi , Miyamoto Takeshi , Inose Hiroyuki , Yoshii Toshitaka , Kashii Masafumi , Nakashima Hiroaki , Ando Kei , Taniguchi Yuki , Takeuchi Kazuhiro , Ito Shuji , Tomizuka Kohei , Hikino Keiko , Iwasaki Yusuke , Kamatani Yoichiro , Maeda Shingo , Nakajima Hideaki , Mori Kanji , Seichi Atsushi , Fujibayashi Shunsuke , Kanchiku Tsukasa , Watanabe Kei , Tanaka Toshihiro , Kida Kazunobu , Kobayashi Sho , Takahashi Masahito , Yamada Kei , Takuwa Hiroshi , Lu Hsing-Fang , Niida Shumpei , Ozaki Kouichi , Momozawa Yukihide ,   Genetic Study Group of Investigation Committee on Ossification of the Spinal Ligaments, Yamazaki Masashi , Okawa Atsushi , Matsumoto Morio , Iwasaki Norimasa , Terao Chikashi , Ikegawa Shiro
Published: July 2023

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the spine (OPLL) is an intractable disease leading to severe neurological deficits. Its etiology and pathogenesis are primarily unknown. The relationship between OPLL and comorbidities, especially type 2 diabetes (T2D) and high body mass index (BMI), has been the focus of attention; however, no trait has been proven to have a causal relationship. We conducted a meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWASs) using 22,016 Japanese individuals and identified 14 significant loci, 8 of which were previously unreported. We then conducted a gene-based association analysis and a transcriptome-wide Mendelian randomization approach and identified three candidate genes for each. Partitioning heritability enrichment analyses observed significant enrichment of the polygenic signals in the active enhancers of the connective/bone cell group, especially H3K27ac in chondrogenic differentiation cells, as well as the immune/hematopoietic cell group. Single-cell RNA sequencing of Achilles tendon cells from a mouse Achilles tendon ossification model confirmed the expression of genes in GWAS and post-GWAS analyses in mesenchymal and immune cells. Genetic correlations with 96 complex traits showed positive correlations with T2D and BMI and a negative correlation with cerebral aneurysm. Mendelian randomization analysis demonstrated a significant causal effect of increased BMI and high bone mineral density on OPLL. We evaluated the clinical images in detail and classified OPLL into cervical, thoracic, and the other types. GWAS subanalyses identified subtype-specific signals. A polygenic risk score for BMI demonstrated that the effect of BMI was particularly strong in thoracic OPLL. Our study provides genetic insight into the etiology and pathogenesis of OPLL and is expected to serve as a basis for future treatment development.
The structural repertoire of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici effectors revealed by experimental and computational studies
Authors: Yu Daniel S , Outram Megan A , Smith Ashley , McCombe Carl L , Khambalkar Pravin B , Rima Sharmin A , Sun Xizhe , Ma Lisong , Ericsson Daniel J , Jones David A , Williams Simon J
Published: July 2023

Plant pathogens secrete proteins, known as effectors, that function in the apoplast or inside plant cells to promote virulence. Effector recognition by cell-surface or cytosolic receptors results in the activation of defence pathways and plant immunity. Despite their importance, our general understanding of fungal effector function and recognition by immunity receptors remains poor. One complication often associated with effectors is their high sequence diversity and lack of identifiable sequence motifs precluding prediction of structure or function. In recent years, several studies have demonstrated that fungal effectors can be grouped into structural classes, despite significant sequence variation and existence across taxonomic groups. Using protein X-ray crystallography, we identify a new structural class of effectors hidden within the secreted in xylem (SIX) effectors from Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol). The recognised effectors Avr1 (SIX4) and Avr3 (SIX1) represent the founding members of the Fol dual-domain (FOLD) effector class, with members containing two distinct domains. Using AlphaFold2, we predicted the full SIX effector repertoire of Fol and show that SIX6 and SIX13 are also FOLD effectors, which we validated experimentally for SIX6. Based on structural prediction and comparisons, we show that FOLD effectors are present within three divisions of fungi and are expanded in pathogens and symbionts. Further structural comparisons demonstrate that Fol secretes effectors that adopt a limited number of structural folds during infection of tomato. This analysis also revealed a structural relationship between transcriptionally co-regulated effector pairs. We make use of the Avr1 structure to understand its recognition by the I receptor, which leads to disease resistance in tomato. This study represents an important advance in our understanding of Fol-tomato, and by extension plant–fungal interactions, which will assist in the development of novel control and engineering strategies to combat plant pathogens.
Utilization Management Trends in Medicare Part D Oncology Drugs, 2010-2020
Authors: Kyle Michael Anne , Dusetzina Stacie B. , Keating Nancy L.
Published: July 2023

This study examines the exposure of Medicare Part D beneficiaries to utilization management, such as prior authorization, for oral oncology drugs.
Examining the effects of negative emotion and interviewing procedure on eyewitness recall
Authors: Snow Mark D. , Eastwood Joseph
Published: July 2023

Witnessing or experiencing a crime can be emotionally distressing and this emotional reaction can affect the formation and retrieval of event‐related memory. Extant eyewitness research, however, has generated inconsistent conclusions regarding the effects of emotional arousal on eyewitness memory. In the present experiment, we used a mock witness paradigm to attempt to remedy several methodological limitations that have persisted in the literature and shed light on the effects of emotional memory within an investigative interviewing context. Participants (N = 132) viewed either a Negative or Neutral video and either immediately or one week later provided their account of the video in a virtual interview procedure, consisting of either cognitive interview‐ based instructions or a free recall. Negative emotion was associated with selectively enhanced recall for the central aspects of the video. Participants who viewed the Negative video reported more details that were central to the target video than did those who viewed the Neutral video. The present findings highlight the potential for negative emotional events to lead to focally enhanced recall performance.
Research on environmental monitoring and governance of air contamination in the Beijing‐Tianjin‐Hebei region stemmed from spatiotemporal data collection
Authors: Zhao Ying
Published: July 2023

From 2013 to now, Beijing‐Tianjin‐Hebei (Hereinafter referred to as “the region”) has carried out comprehensive air pollution governance, which has promoted the sustained and rapid development of the regional economy while significantly improving regional air quality. However, the spatial and seasonal differences in atmospheric quality are obvious, and the regional and structural problems are still prominent. There is a long way to go for new challenges of cooperate governance of PM2.5 and O3. Therefore, first, we should further deepen the joint prevention and control mechanism based on regional collaborative governance. Second, we should rely on technological innovation to impetus the upgrading of energy and industrial structure. Third, we should adjust the transportation structure and create a new pattern of transportation network. Fourth, we should improve the ecological compensation mechanism and give full play to the functions of ecological conservation areas. Fifth, we should think highly of the self‐purification capacity of the ecosystem and build urban forest parks. At last, we should Strengthen publicity and mobilization, and participate in joint governance through nationwide action.
A Bioglass‐Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic Acid) Scaffold@Fibrin Hydrogel Construct to Support Endochondral Bone Formation
Authors: Jeyachandran Dhanalakshmi , Murshed Monzur , Haglund Lisbet , Cerruti Marta
Published: July 2023

Bone tissue engineering using stem cells to build bone directly on a scaffold matrix often fails due to lack of oxygen at the injury site. This may be avoided by following the endochondral ossification route; herein, a cartilage template is promoted first, which can survive hypoxic environments, followed by its hypertrophy and ossification. However, hypertrophy is so far only achieved using biological factors. This work introduces a Bioglass‐Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid@fibrin (Bg‐PLGA@fibrin) construct where a fibrin hydrogel infiltrates and encapsulates a porous Bg‐PLGA. The hypothesis is that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) loaded in the fibrin gel and induced into chondrogenesis degrade the gel and become hypertrophic upon reaching the stiffer, bioactive Bg‐PLGA core, without external induction factors. Results show that Bg‐PLGA@fibrin induces hypertrophy, as well as matrix mineralization and osteogenesis; it also promotes a change in morphology of the MSCs at the gel/scaffold interface, possibly a sign of osteoblast‐like differentiation of hypertrophic chondrocytes. Thus, the Bg‐PLGA@fibrin construct can sequentially support the different phases of endochondral ossification purely based on material cues. This may facilitate clinical translation by decreasing in‐vitro cell culture time pre‐implantation and the complexity associated with the use of external induction factors.
Dual Photo‐Enhanced Interpenetrating Network Hydrogel with Biophysical and Biochemical Signals for Infected Bone Defect Healing
Authors: Jian Guangyu , Li Dize , Ying Qiwei , Chen Xu , Zhai Qiming , Wang Si , Mei Li , Cannon Richard D. , Ji Ping , Liu Wenzhao , Wang Huanan , Chen Tao
Published: July 2023

The healing of infected bone defects (IBD) is a complex physiological process involving a series of spatially and temporally overlapping events, including pathogen clearance, immunological modulation, vascularization, and osteogenesis. Based on the theory that bone healing is regulated by both biochemical and biophysical signals, in this study, a copper doped bioglass (CuBGs)/methacryloyl‐modified gelatin nanoparticle (MA‐GNPs)/methacrylated silk fibroin (SilMA) hybrid hydrogel is developed to promote IBD healing. This hybrid hydrogel demonstrates a dual‐photocrosslinked interpenetrating network mechanism, wherein the photocrosslinked SilMA as the main network ensures structural integrity, and the photocrosslinked MA‐GNPs colloidal network increases strength and dissipates loading forces. In an IBD model, the hydrogel exhibits excellent biophysical characteristics, such as adhesion, adaptation to irregular defect shapes, and in situ physical reinforcement. At the same time, by sequentially releasing bioactive ions such as Cu2+, Ca2+, and Si2+ ions from CuBGs on demand, the hydrogel spatiotemporally coordinates antibacterial, immunomodulatory and bone remodeling events, efficiently removing infection and accelerating bone repair without the use of antibiotics or exogenous recombinant proteins. Therefore, the hybrid hydrogel can be used as a simple and effective method for the treatment of IBD.
Microfluidic‐Assisted Interfacial Complexation of Extracellular Matrix Components to Mimic the Properties of Neural Tissues
Authors: Costa Rui R. , Caballero David , Soares da Costa Diana , Rodriguez‐Trujillo Romen , Kundu Subhas C. , Reis Rui L. , Pashkuleva Iva
Published: July 2023

Anisotropy is an important cue for neural organization during morphogenesis and healing, contributing to the mechanical and functional properties of neural tissues. The ability to replicate such anisotropy in vitro holds great promise for the development of effective regeneration strategies. In this work, interfacial polyelectrolyte complexation (IPC) is applied to fabricate microfibers from charged ECM components without any chemical modification. Using flow‐focusing microfluidics, collagen (Col) and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as chondroitin sulfate (CS) or heparin (Hep), form Col/CS and Col/Hep interfacial complexes that coalesce as IPC microfibers. These fibers are flexible and absorb large amounts of water but remain stable under physiological conditions. At these conditions, the tensile strength of the assembled Col/GAG microfibers is similar to the strength of the neural tissue. The fibers are biocompatible and biofunctional; PC12 neural cells adhere and orient longitudinally to the fibers. Moreover, Col/CS microfibers promote the formation of neural processes. The results demonstrate that the microfluidic‐assisted IPC complexation enables the assembly of ECM mimics by synergetic integration of anisotropic, chemical, and mechanical cues that boost the development of neural cells.
The effect of processing design and the stabilizing effect of nanostructures on the swelling and adsorption properties of polyvinylpyrrolidone macroporous ferrogels obtained through a cryogenic route
Authors: Scanone Ana C. , Romeo Hernán E. , Mendoza Zélis Pedro , Hoppe Cristina E. , Gonzalez Jimena S.
Published: July 2023

This paper reports the synthesis of macroporous polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) hydrogels modified with in‐situ generated magnetic nanoparticles (NPs). The hydrogels were formed by an optimized thermally induced crosslinking route, initiated by the presence of ammonium persulfate, whereas the macroporosity was created through a cryogenic technique. Crosslinking stabilizes the three dimensional (3D) gel structure, allowing the replacement of expensive and time‐consuming lyophilization steps in favor of simpler drying procedures at atmospheric pressure. The in‐situ formation of iron oxide NPs (IONPs) was achieved through oxide precursors impregnation followed by precipitation of the IONPs in the highly swellable hydrogels. This reaction was performed by addressing two strategies, namely, before or after cryogenic processing, to evaluate its effect on the final swelling and adsorption properties of the gel matrices. It is demonstrated that the inclusion of the magnetic NPs before cryo‐structuring allows the stabilization of the gel against collapse, favoring the conservation of a highly swellable environment. The synergy between the adsorption capacity of the IONPs and the high swelling of the macroporous structure allows obtaining materials with potential in adsorption processes. Preliminary analyses showed that macroporous samples obtained with 32 wt% IONPs led to methylene blue (MB) adsorption capacities as high as 400 mg dye/g ferrogel, for dye concentrations as low as 10 mg/L. These results show that the use of an adequate strategy for the processing of macroporous ferrogels can be of high importance in the design of new adsorbents and superabsorbent hydrogels.
Anatomic donor surgeries increase self‐efficacy in physical therapy education: Use of live versus recorded viewing
Authors: Friel Karen J. , Shultz S. Tyler
Published: July 2023

Anatomy serves as a foundational course in physical therapy education, but, due to its early placement in the curriculum, may have limited clinical application at that point of a student's education. Thus, augmenting a standard dissection course with surgical procedures can enhance the clinical relevance and knowledge of the anatomical structures involved in those surgeries. Doctor of Physical Therapy students viewed a variety of cadaveric orthopedic and cardiothoracic surgeries performed by a surgeon. Students unable to participate live viewed the recorded surgeries. Participants completed a 10‐point Likert scale survey, developed by the researchers, pre‐ and post‐viewing, on self‐efficacy of knowledge, patient intervention and communication. Data analysis revealed improved self‐efficacy of knowledge of the anatomy and the surgical procedures, confidence in treating patients undergoing those surgeries, and confidence communicating with surgeons, regardless of whether students viewed the surgeries live or recorded. Students participating in this experience expressed a clear value enhancement on their education. Programs should feel confident that this type of experience in the curriculum, whether live or recorded, will have a positive effect on student self‐efficacy as related to the relationships and pertinence of anatomical structures involved in the surgeries, the surgical procedures, treating patients having undergone those surgeries, and interprofessional communication.
Recent Progress in Asymmetric Domino Intramolecular Cyclization/Cascade Reactions of Substituted Olefins
Authors: Zou Liang , Gao Yuan , Zhang Qiaoman , Ye Xiang‐Yang , Xie Tian , Wang Li‐Wei , Ye Yang
Published: July 2023

The domino cyclization/coupling strategy is one of the most effective methods to produce cyclized and multi‐functionalized compounds from olefins, which has attracted huge attention from chemists and biochemists especially for its considerable potential of enantiocontrol. Nowadays, more and more studies are developed to achieve difunctionalization of substituted olefins through an asymmetric domino intramolecular cyclization/cascade reaction, which is still an elegant choice to accomplish several synthetic ideas such as complex natural products and drugs. This review surveys the recent advances in this field through reaction type classification. It might serve as useful knowledge desktop for the community and accelerate their research.
Vision outcomes in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Lyubasyuk Vera , Jones Kenneth Lyons , Caesar Michelle Ann , Chambers Christina
Published: July 2023

Background

Previous studies demonstrated that children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are more likely to have vision impairments. However, existing human clinical and epidemiological investigations are few and include limited sample sizes. This study aimed to explore the association between ophthalmologic abnormalities and FASD in a sample of 5–7 year old children in the general population.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study nested in a larger study intended to estimate the prevalence of FASD in San Diego, California, conducted between 2012 and 2014. Prenatal exposure to alcohol, dysmorphology examinations, and a neurobehavioral testing battery were collected for each child and an FASD diagnosis was assigned. Parents of participating children were asked to release their child's vision screening or diagnostic records.

Results

Vision records were obtained for 424 participants in the larger prevalence study. Of these, 53 children were classified as having FASD. A statistically significant association was found between FASD and a diagnosis of strabismus; 5/42 (11.9%) of children who were classified as having FASD had strabismus compared to 6/290 (2.1%) of children who were not classified as having FASD (p = .01). All five cases of strabismus in the FASD group occurred in 19 children classified as having partial fetal alcohol syndrome (pFAS). No association was found between FASD and vision impairment (p = .23), refractive errors (p = .66), glasses/contact lens prescription (p = .30), or having one or more ophthalmological abnormalities (p = .97).

Conclusions

An association between strabismus and FASD, specifically partial FAS, suggests that the effect of alcohol exposure on risk of strabismus must be severe enough to result in facial features consistent with FASD. This emphasizes the importance of vision screening in children with FASD.
Hydrogen Peroxide‐Inducible PROTACs for Targeted Protein Degradation in Cancer Cells
Authors: Yu Dehao , Fan Heli , Zhou Zhili , Zhang Ying , Sun Jing , Wang Luo , Jia Yuanyuan , Tian Junyu , Campbell Anahit , Mi Wenyi , Sun Huabing
Published: July 2023

Proteolysis‐targeting chimeras (PROTACs) provide a powerful technique to degrade targeted proteins utilizing the cellular ubiquitin‐proteasome system. The major concern is the host toxicity resulting from their poor selectivity. Inducible PROTACs responding to exogenous stimulus, such as light, improve their specificity, but it is difficult for photo‐activation in deep tissues. Herein, we develop H2O2‐inducible PROTAC precursors 2/5, which can be activated by endogenous H2O2 in cancer cells to release the active PROTACs 1/4 to effectively degrade targeted proteins. This results in the intended cytotoxicity towards cancer cells while targeted protein in normal cells remains almost unaffected. The higher Bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4) degradation activity and cytotoxicity of 2 towards cancer cells is mainly due to the higher endogenous concentration of H2O2 in cancer cells (A549 and H1299), characterized by H2O2‐responsive fluorescence probe 3. Western blot assays and cytotoxicity experiments demonstrate that 2 degrades BRD4 more effectively and is more cytotoxic in H2O2‐rich cancer cells than in H2O2‐deficient normal cells. This method is also extended to estrogen receptor (ER)‐PROTAC precursor 5, showing H2O2‐dependent ER degradation ability. Thus, we establish a novel strategy to induce targeted protein degradation in a H2O2‐dependent way, which has the potential to improve the selectivity of PROTACs.
New presentation of CLIFAHDD syndrome with a novel variant in NALCN gene: A report of a rare case
Authors: Hashemi Bita , Huntsman Richard J. , Li Huan , Zhang Dapeng , Xi Yanwei
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Congenital Contractures of Limbs and Face, Hypotonia, and Developmental Delay (CLIFAHDD) syndrome is a recently described type of distal arthrogryposis which unlike other subtypes is associated with developmental delay and various neurologic presentation. Epilepsy and ataxia have been reported. We add paroxysmal dyskinesia to the clinical spectrum. Understanding the molecular mechanism can help developing targeted therapy in future.

This study resulted in identification of a novel variant in NALCN gene leading to autosomal dominant CLIFAHDD syndrome. Our patient presented with a form of nonepileptic paroxysmal dyskinesia. This is a new phenotype that has not been described previously.
Separation and quantitative estimation of stereo‐selective enantiomers of montelukast in pharmaceutical drug substance and tablets dosage forms by using stability‐indicating normal phase‐HPLC method
Authors: Vadagam Niroja , Haridasyam Sharath Babu , Venkatanarayana Muvvala , Lakka Narasimha S. , Chinnakadoori Sanjeeva R.
Published: July 2023

Montelukast sodium (MLS) is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that relieves asthma, bronchospasm, allergic rhinitis, and urticaria. A simple, robust, and stability‐indicating normal phase high‐performance liquid chromatography method was developed to separate and quantitatively estimate the S‐enantiomer of MLS. The chiral separation was achieved using USP L51 packing material along with a mobile phase consisting of a solvent mixture (n‐hexane, ethanol, and propionic acid), a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, a detection wavelength of 284 nm, a column temperature of 30°C and an injection volume of 20 μL. The enantiomers peaks were well separated from the peaks of the placebo, diluting solvent, MLS, and its known impurities with a resolution of more than 2.2 and with no interference. Accuracy and linearity were studied in a range of 0.36–3.597 μg/mL (0.03%–0.30%), with good recoveries between 92.5% and 96.8% and a linear regression coefficient above 0.996. The suggested chiral chromatography method is being considered as an alternative and equivalent method to the United States Pharmacopeia and European Pharmacopeia monographs. The developed method was effectively employed for the study of release and stability samples of MLS. This HPLC method is also capable of separating and estimating the stereo‐selective isomers (R‐ and S‐enantiomers) of sulfoxide impurity of MLS in pharmaceutical medicine.
Numerical coupling of 0D and 1D models in networks of vessels including transonic flow conditions. Application to short‐term transient and stationary hemodynamic simulation of postural changes
Authors: Murillo Javier , García‐Navarro Pilar
Published: July 2023

When modeling complex fluid networks using one‐dimensional (1D) approaches, boundary conditions can be imposed using zero‐dimensional (0D) models. An application case is the modeling of the entire human circulation using closed‐loop models. These models can be considered as a tool to investigate short‐term transient and stationary hemodynamic responses to postural changes. The first shortcoming of existing 1D modeling methods in simulating these sudden maneuvers is their inability to deal with rapid variations in flow conditions, as they are limited to the subsonic case. On the other hand, numerical modeling of 0D models representing microvascular beds, venous valves or heart chambers is also currently modeled assuming subsonic flow conditions in 1D connecting vessels, failing when transonic and supersonic flow conditions appear. Therefore, if numerical simulation of sudden maneuvers is a goal in closed‐loop models, it is necessary to reformulate the current methodologies used when coupling 0D and 1D models, allowing the correct handling of flow evolution for both subsonic and transonic conditions. This work focuses on the extension of the general methodology for the Junction Riemann Problem (JRP) when coupling 0D and 1D models. As an example of application, the short‐term transient response to head‐up tilt (HUT) from supine to upright position of a closed‐loop model is shown, demonstrating the potential, capability and necessity of the presented numerical models when dealing with sudden maneuvers.
Resonant Fragmentation of the Water Cation by Electron Impact: a Wave‐Packet Study
Authors: Benito‐Gómez Ignacio , Méndez Luis , Suárez Jaime , Gorfinkiel Jimena D. , Rabadán Ismanuel
Published: July 2023

We have investigated the dissociation of a resonant state that can be formed in low energy electron scattering from H2O+. We have chosen the second triplet resonance above the

state of H2O+ whose autoionization mainly produces H2O+ (
). We have considered both dissociation of the resonant state itself, dissociative recombination (DR), or the dissociation of the H2O+ cation after autodetachment, dissociative excitation (DE). The time‐evolution of a wave packet on the potential energy surfaces of the resonance and cationic states shows, for the initial conditions studied, that the probability for DR is about 38 % while the probability for DE is negligible.
Single‐cell landscape analysis reveals systematic senescence in mammalian Down syndrome
Authors: Chen Yao , Xiao Yanyu , Zhang Yanye , Wang Renying , Wang Feixia , Gao Huajing , Liu Yifeng , Zhang Runju , Sun Huiyu , Zhou Ziming , Wang Siwen , Chen Kai , Sun Yixi , Tu Mixue , Li Jingyi , Luo Qiong , Wu Yiqing , Zhu Linling , Huang Yun , Sun Xiao , Guo Guoji , Zhang Dan
Published: July 2023

Background

Down syndrome (DS), which is characterized by various malfunctions, is the most common chromosomal disorder. As the DS population continues to grow and most of those with DS live beyond puberty, early‐onset health problems have become apparent. However, the cellular landscape and molecular alterations have not been thoroughly studied.

Methods

This study utilized single‐cell resolution techniques to examine DS in humans and mice, spanning seven distinct organs. A total of 71 934 mouse and 98 207 human cells were analyzed to uncover the molecular alterations occurring in different cell types and organs related to DS, specifically starting from the fetal stage. Additionally, SA‐β‐Gal staining, western blot, and histological study were employed to verify the alterations.

Results

In this study, we firstly established the transcriptomic profile of the mammalian DS, deciphering the cellular map and molecular mechanism. Our analysis indicated that DS cells across various types and organs experienced senescence stresses from as early as the fetal stage. This was marked by elevated SA‐β‐Gal activity, overexpression of cell cycle inhibitors, augmented inflammatory responses, and a loss of cellular identity. Furthermore, we found evidence of mitochondrial disturbance, an increase in ribosomal protein transcription, and heightened apoptosis in fetal DS cells. This investigation also unearthed a regulatory network driven by an HSA21 gene, which leads to genome‐wide expression changes.

Conclusion

The findings from this study offer significant insights into the molecular alterations that occur in DS, shedding light on the pathological processes underlying this disorder. These results can potentially guide future research and treatment development for DS.
Racial disparities in surgical treatment of oropharyngeal cancer: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results review
Authors: Douse Dontre' M. , Yin Linda X. , Olawuni Felicia O. , Glasgow Amy E. , Habermann Elizabeth B. , Price Daniel L. , Tasche Kendall K. , Moore Eric J. , Van Abel Kathryn M.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has been rising. This manuscript looks to explore racial disparities in the surgical management of OPSCC.

Methods

A cancer database was queried for patients with OPSCC diagnosed from 2004 to 2017. Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to evaluate associations between patient race/ethnicity, surgical treatment, and reasons for lack of surgery.

Results

37 306 (74.3%) patients did not undergo surgery, while 12 901 (25.7%) patients did. Non‐Hispanic black (NHB) patients were less likely to undergo surgery than other races (17.9% vs. 26.5%; p < 0.0001). In clinical discussions, the Asian, Native American, Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (ANAHPI), and unknown race group was more likely to directly refuse surgery when recommended (2.5% vs. 1.5%; p = 0.015).

Conclusion

Racial differences exist in treatment for OPSCC. NHB patients are less likely to actually undergo surgical management for OPSCC, while other patients are more likely to directly “refuse” surgery outright when offered.
Borotropy: The Mechanism of Boron Transfer Between Adjacent N‐Atoms of Pyrazol‐1‐yl Rings
Authors: Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José
Published: July 2023

This work examines theoretically the problem of the migration of borane groups between the nitrogen atoms of pyrazolyl rings. We have studied as a model the BH2 pyrazol‐1‐yl derivatives to determine the effects of substituents on the pyrazole ring; also 1‐(9‐borabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan‐9‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazoles to compare the calculated barriers with the experimental ones as well as to determine steric effects, i. e., how the buttressing effect increases the rate. The interacting quantum atoms methodology has been used for partitioning the energy of the systems in their stationary points into the contribution of pyrazole and BH2 group and their mutual interaction.
“It's fundamental to the work that we do”: Genetic counselors' perceptions of their role in clients' mental well‐being
Authors: Harris Madeleine , Best Stephanie , de Silva Michelle G. , Finlay Keri
Published: July 2023

The role of a genetic counselor is to assist individuals and their families to comprehend and adapt to genetic information. However, a genetic counselor's role in clients' mental well‐being is unclear. Mental well‐being is an important component of overall health and it can be affected during the adaptation to genetic information. It is, therefore, essential to consider how mental well‐being is viewed in genetic counseling practice. Our research aimed to investigate genetic counselors' perceptions of their role in clients' mental well‐being. Our objectives were to (1) understand what genetic counselors perceived their role to be in clients' mental well‐being and (2) investigate what factors influence genetic counselors' perceptions of practice. We recruited participants via advertisements in the Human Genetics Society of Australasia and the Australasian Society of Genetic Counselors newsletters, and through the Genetic Support Network of Victoria social media. We completed semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with 12 Australian genetic counselors and analyzed the interviews using inductive thematic analysis. We found that genetic counselors viewed clients' mental well‐being as an important and crucial part of their practice. Three key themes were identified, first, all the participants' views of clients' mental well‐being were shaped by personal and professional beliefs. Second, all participants noted that there were factors external to them, such as workplace and professional guidelines, which shaped their role in clients' mental well‐being. Third, all those interviewed noted the boundaries of their professional role in clients' mental well‐being. From these three themes, we determined that genetic counselors see clients' mental well‐being as an integral part of their practice. Our findings add to the extant literature and can shape future practice in this field. Furthermore, we identified how future research priorities could further our knowledge in this area.