bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Measurement invariance of the Domain‐Specific Risk‐Taking (DOSPERT) scale
Authors: Welindt Dillon , Condon David M. , Weston Sara J. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractGroup‐level risk attitudes are often studied across psychology domains (e.g., binge drinking among college students, and driving risk by gender). In measuring these differences by self‐report, such work relies on the assumption that those measures of risk attitude function equivalently across demographic groups—that is, that the measure employed has the property of measurement invariance. Here, we examine the measurement invariance properties of a widely used risk measure, the Domain‐Specific Risk‐Taking (DOSPERT) scale across different demographic groups. A secondary goal was to determine whether a hierarchical or bifactor model better fits the data. Data were collected from Prolific using a stratified sampling approach to ensure sufficient and unconfounded sampling of sex, socioeconomic status (SES), and race (N = 412). Sample groups consisted of approximately 50 participants each, based on the intersection of three dichotomized demographic groups (high vs. low SES, White vs. non‐White, and female vs. male). Subjects completed the 30‐item form of the DOSPERT assessing likelihood, perceived benefit, and riskiness of the same 30 behaviors. The bifactor models showed a superior fit to the hierarchical models and were used in subsequent analyses. These analyses demonstrated that no models fit generally acceptable criteria for configural fit, and many models additionally fail cutoffs for metric and scalar invariance. This study adds to findings that the DOSPERT does not perform equivalently across demographic groups. We suggest development of a scale of risk that is invariant across commonly assessed demographic factors.
What is an enhancer?
Authors: Thomas Henry Fabian , Buecker Christa 
Published: May 2023

AbstractTight control of the transcription process is essential for the correct spatial and temporal gene expression pattern during development and in homeostasis. Enhancers are at the core of correct transcriptional activation. The original definition of an enhancer is straightforward: a DNA sequence that activates transcription independent of orientation and direction. Dissection of numerous enhancer loci has shown that many enhancer‐like elements might not conform to the original definition, suggesting that enhancers and enhancer‐like elements might use multiple different mechanisms to contribute to transcriptional activation. Here, we review methodologies to identify enhancers and enhancer‐like elements and discuss pitfalls and consequences for our understanding of transcriptional regulation.
New insights from modelling studies and molecular dynamics simulations of the DIS5‐S6 extracellular linker of the skeletal muscle sodium channel NaV1.4
Authors: Robinson Anna , Tao Elaine , Neeman Teresa , Kaehler Benjamin , Corry Ben 
Published: May 2023

AbstractIn the CryoEM‐structure of the hSkMNaV1.4 ion channel (PDB:6AGF), the 59‐residue DIS5‐S6 linker peptide was omitted due to absence of electron density. This peptide is intriguing – comprised of unique sequence and found only in mammalian skeletal muscle sodium ion channels. To probe potential physiological and evolutionary significance, we constructed an homology model of the complete hSkMNaV1.4 channel. Rather than a flexible random coil potentiating drift across the channel, the linker folds into a compact configuration through self‐assembling secondary structural elements. Analogous sequences from 48 mammalian organisms show hypervariability with between 40% and 100% sequence similarity. To investigate structural implications, sequences from 14 representative organisms were additionally modelled. All showed highly conserved N‐and C‐terminal residues closely superimposed, suggesting a critical functional role. An optimally located asparagine residue within the conserved region was investigated for N‐linked glycosylation and MD simulations carried out. Results suggest a complex glycan added at this site in the linker may form electrostatic interactions with the DIV voltage sensing domain and be mechanistically involved in channel gating. The relationship of unique sequence, compact configuration, potential glycosylation and MD simulations are discussed relative to SkMNaV1.4 structure and function.
Aptamer‐based strategies against SARS‐CoV‐2 viruses
Authors: Huang Yihao , Chen Ximing , Zhang Jialu , Tian Wenhai , Liu Siwen , Chun‐Yee Tam Rachel , Yang Chaoyong , Song Yanling 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe COVID‐19 pandemic, caused by SARS‐CoV‐2, has seriously threatened human life and security in recent years and has had a serious impact on economic development. A range of strategies, including antibodies, small‐molecule agents and vaccines, have been developed and widely used to combat SARS‐CoV‐2. However, the uncertain development and susceptibility to mutation of SARS‐CoV‐2 pose challenges to these approaches, making it necessary to develop a broader range of strategies to complement and expand the diversity of attacks against SARS‐CoV‐2. As promising tools against SARS‐CoV‐2, aptamers have attracted wide attention due to their unique molecular properties. In this review, we survey SARS‐CoV‐2 aptamers and aptamer‐based detection tools as well as aptamer‐based therapeutics. In addition, we analyze the potential value of aptamers in the investigation of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection mechanism and vaccine design. Finally, we look forward to the future development direction of aptamers against SARS‐CoV‐2 or other viruses.
Oxygenated Cembrane Diterpenes from the South China Sea Soft Coral Sinularia tumulosa**
Authors: Zhu Sheng‐Hui , Yu Dan‐Dan , Su Ming‐Zhi , Luo Hui , Yao Li‐Gong , Gu Feifei , Liang Lin‐Fu , Wang Hong , Guo Yue‐Wei 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe chemical investigation of the rarely studied soft coral Sinularia tumulosa resulted in the discovery of five oxygenated cembrane diterpenes 1–5, including two new compounds situmulins A (1) and B (2). The structures of 1 and 2 were established through the extensive analyses of 1D and 2D NMR spectral data together with the comparisons with the known compounds. Furthermore, the absolute configuration of 1 was determined by the time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) ECD approach, while the relative configuration of 2 was assigned via the quantum mechanical‐NMR (QM‐NMR) calculations. It might be worth to point out it is the first time to disclose the presence of cembrane diterpenes in the title species. In the bioassays, compound 2 not only showed strong antibacterial activities against fish pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus parauberis FP KSP28 and Phoyobacterium damselae FP2244 with both minimum inhibitory concentration for 90 % (MIC90) values of 25 μM, but also demonstrated substantial inhibitory efficacy against vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus faecium bacteria G1, G4, G7, G8 and G13 from several individuals, with MIC90 values of 25, 50, 100, 50 and 25 μM, respectively.
Design, Synthesis, and Antitumor Activities of Isomers of Artemisinin Dimer Derivatives
Authors: Yue Lingyun , Pan Yanna , Wang Jiaoying , Yue Lin , Luo Yuxuan , Lv Fang , Lv Jiagang , Chen Jianping , Zhao Qingjie , Lin Haixia 
Published: May 2023

AbstractIn recent years, numerous studies have reported on the anti‐tumor properties of artemisinin and its derivatives. However, the relationship between their artemisinin chirality and activity remains unknown. In this study, we synthesized a series of artemisinin dimer derivatives with three different chiral structures and tested their antiproliferative activity in MCF‐7 and HepG2 cells using the CCK‐8 assay. Interestingly, we discovered that artemisinin dimer derivatives with β, β and α, β conformations at C‐10 exhibited stronger anti‐tumor activity than those with an α, α configuration in MCF‐7 and HepG2 cells. Notably, compound 4 showed an activity of 0.06 μM in MCF‐7 cells. This study demonstrates the relationship between the conformation and activity of artemisinin dimer derivatives, and these derivatives have the potential to be developed into anti‐cancer drugs.
Analytical Methods for the Rapid Determination of Solid Biofuel Quality
Authors: Endriss Felix , Kuptz Daniel , Hartmann Hans , Brauer Stefan , Kirchhof Rainer , Kappler Andreas , Thorwarth Harald 
Published: May 2023

AbstractFuel properties of solid biofuels are essential aspects for the energy‐efficient and low‐emission operation of biomass heat and power plants. Hence, fuel quality parameters are often defined and used for pricing in supply contracts. To simplify and accelerate analytical approaches, rapid analysis devices are required to determine fuel properties such as water‐ and ash content, calorific value, and chemical composition on‐site. This article gives an overview about available technologies and, if applicable, their current state of use as rapid analysis devices for solid biofuels.
Building climate resilience through crop residue utilization: Experiences of Ghanaian smallholder farmers
Authors: Antwi‐Agyei Philip , Atta‐Aidoo Jonathan , Guodaar Lawrence , Dougill Andrew 
Published: May 2023

AbstractA major limiting factor affecting the uptake of conservation agriculture practices in smallholder farming systems in sub‐Saharan Africa is the limited availability of sufficient crop residues for use as surface mulch. This paper assesses the trade‐offs in crop residue utilization among smallholder farmers and its implications for soil management in the face of climate change risks in northern Ghana. The paper triangulated data from 350 household surveys with participatory key informant interviews from seven selected communities in three districts of northern Ghana. The problem confrontation index (PCI) was adopted to identify and rank the challenges associated with farmers’ decision to use crop residues, while a multivariate probit model was used to analyse and predict the factors that influence farmers’ choice of crop residue management practices. Results showed that crop residues were used as cooking fuel in households (21%), livestock feed (21%), left on the farm to decompose as mulch (34%) or burned to clear the land (24%). Key challenges identified included high labour cost (PCI = 404), high labour intensity (PCI = 388), the cost and transport for collection and storage of externally sourced crop residue (PCI = 383) and the low benefit from crop residue to farm output/soil fertility (PCI = 339). Results from the multivariate probit model revealed that household and farm variables, institutional and socio‐psychological factors, and experience of some climate shocks all influence farmers’ choice of crop residue management practices. Crop residue use and management practices adopted were determined by factors including the crops being grown, challenges faced by farmers and the management options available. The study recommends the need for the Government of Ghana to empower farmers through the provision of technical knowledge and machinery for the sustainable utilization of crop residues due to the high labour intensity and cost associated with such practices.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis: Prognostic impact of time from diagnosis to treatment in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Franco Stephanie , Geng Xue , Korostyshevskiy Valeriy , Karp Judith E. , Lai Catherine 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundAcute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been considered an oncologic emergency that requires initiation of chemotherapy immediately after diagnosis. With the introduction of novel targeted therapies, there is a potential benefit associated with delaying definitive treatment for identification of actionable therapeutic targets. Unfortunately, cytogenetic/molecular testing can take >7 days to return, and there is not a consensus regarding the prognostic impact of time from diagnosis to treatment (TDT) in AML.MethodsA literature review and meta‐analysis of studies done to date that evaluate TDT was conducted. Studies that reported baseline characteristics, TDT, and outcomes for patients with AML were selected. Outcomes included overall survival (OS), complete remission (CR), and mortality. Studies that measured CR rates within each TDT range and data to calculate odds ratios were included in the meta‐analysis. The remaining outcomes were synthesized descriptively for literature review.ResultsThirteen studies were identified, which comprised a total of 14,946 patients. Median TDT values were between 1 and 8 days. Several studies found a significant association between prolonged TDT and older age and lower proliferation burden. Four of 11 studies did not detect a significant relationship between TDT and OS. No studies found a significant association between TDT and early death. Six of eight studies did not find a significant association between TDT and CR rate. The meta‐analysis found a significant association between prolonged TDT and decreased achievement of CR (p < .05).ConclusionsResults were highly variable but suggest it may be feasible to pursue cytogenetic/molecular testing in patients who are clinically stable, particularly in those aged 60 years and older.
Exploring the Self‐Cleaning Facets of Fluorinated Graphene Nanoarchitectonics: Progress and Perspectives
Authors: Datta K. K. R. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe development of graphene nanoarchitectonics, including their synthesis, surface modification, interfaces, conductivity and porosity, has moved forward rapidly and attracted attention from interdisciplinary research fields. Fluorinated graphene (FG), a rising star and a fascinating member of graphene family has been identified as a promising material for multiple applications, such as sensors, optics, catalysis and self‐cleaning technologies. In this review, we highlight the important aspects of FG pertinent to physiochemical stability and self‐cleaning technologies. We discuss the precise functionalization of FG surfaces with organic functionalities, which are promising for creating high‐performance graphene derivatives. Also, by utilizing the reactivity of few‐layered FG nanosheets, it is possible to develop coatings based on dispersions of functionalized FG inks coupled with porous solids and tubular nanomaterials with super‐wetting functions. The functional groups of the resultant hybrids are connected to innovative substrates including meshes and macroporous sponges that can be useful for super‐wetting containers and oleophilic sorbents. Furthermore, we discuss hydrophobic FG‐porphyrin hybrids with metal coordination and hydrophobicity dependent photoluminescence. Finally, the self‐cleaning action and anti‐corrosion features of FG hybrids are explored, with potential applications in triboelectric nanogenerators and water harvesting. Future development of these materials should focus on new designs, porosity control, batch uniformity, durable self‐cleaning membranes, smart textiles, eco‐compatible coatings and disposability.
Investigating genes associated with cardiovascular disease among heart failure patients for translational research and precision medicine
Authors: Ahmed Zeeshan , Zeeshan Saman , Persaud Nicholas , Degroat William , Abdelhalim Habiba , Liang Bruce T. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundCardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of premature mortality in the United States and the world. CVD comprises several complex and mostly heritable conditions, which range from myocardial infarction to congenital heart disease. The risk factors contributing to the development of CVD and response to therapy in an individual patient are highly variable. Here, we report our findings from an integrative analysis of gene expression, disease‐causing gene variants and associated phenotypes among CVD populations, with a focus on high‐risk heart failure (HF) patients.MethodsWe built a cohort using electronic health records of consented patients with available samples and then performed high‐throughput whole genome and RNA sequencing of key genes responsible for HF and other CVD pathologies. Our in‐depth gene expression analysis revealed differentially expressed genes associated with HF and other CVDs. We performed a variant analysis of whole genome sequence data of CVD patients and identified genes with altered gene expression with functional and non‐functional mutations in these genes.ResultsOur results highlight the importance of investigating the mechanisms of CVD progression through multi‐omics datasets. Next, we performed splice mutation and variant distribution analysis of genes associated with HF and other CVD. We implemented Jensen–Shannon divergence (JSD)‐based method and identified HBA1, FADD, ADRB2, NPPB, ADRB1, ADB and NPPC genes with the greatest variance based on their JSD scores. Our study provided evidence that applying integrative data analysis approach involving genomics and transcriptomics data will not only help understand the pathophysiology of CVD diseases but also reduce heterogeneity in disease subtypes.
OMIP‐94: Twenty‐four‐color (thirty‐marker) panel for deep immunophenotyping of immune cells in human peripheral blood
Authors: Pierzchalski Arkadiusz , Zenclussen Ana C. , Herberth Gunda 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThis newly established 24‐color (30‐marker) panel focuses on the characterization of the main human immune cell subtypes and was optimized for the analysis of human whole blood using a full spectrum flow cytometer. The panel covers all main leukocyte populations: neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils, monocytes (with additional subsets), dendritic cells, innate lymphoid cells and lymphocytes. As for lymphocytes, this panel includes CD4+ T helper, Treg cells, and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells. Further T cells subsets are included with special focus on invariant T cells: γδ T cells (including δ2TCR variant), invariant NKT cells and MAIT (mucosal‐associated invariant T cells) cells. Additionally, total B cells (including Bregs and plasmocytes), NK cells, and NKT cells are included. For the overall check of activation status of the analyzed immune cells we used HLA‐DR, CD38, CD57, CD69, PD‐1, and CD94. In addition, we used CD62L, CD45RA, CD27, and CD39 to describe the differentiation status of these cells. The panel was designed to maximize the information that can be obtained from surface markers in order to avoid the need for fixation and permeabilization steps. The presented multimarker panel offers the possibility to discover new immune cell subtypes which in patients and in cohort studies may lead to the identification of altered immune phenotypes and might give a link to immune system based or to certain other diseases. This panel was developed for a full spectrum flow cytometer equipped with a minimum of three lasers. We developed this panel using healthy human fresh blood, however it was also successfully used for staining of isolated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).
Assessment of self‐stigma in epilepsy: Validation of the German version Epilepsy Self‐Stigma Scale (ESSS‐G)
Authors: Kuramochi Izumi , Iwayama Takayuki , Brandt Christian , Yoshimasu Haruo , Bien Christian G. , Hagemann Anne 
Published: May 2023

AbstractObjectiveSelf‐stigma is the internalization of unfavorable public perceptions, which people with epilepsy (PWE) frequently experience. PWE with strong self‐stigma have low self‐esteem and are less likely to engage in treatment behavior. The Epilepsy Self‐Stigma Scale (ESSS) has been developed and validated in Japan. We translated the ESSS into German for this study to examine its reliability and validity.MethodsWe created the German version of ESSS (ESSS‐G) based on the original Japanese version. From May to October 2022, we recruited out‐ and inpatients from Bethel Epilepsy Centre, University Hospital for Epileptology, for psychometric evaluation. Inclusion criteria were an age of ≥18 years, sufficient reading and speaking skills in German, and the ability to comprehend the German questionnaires. Participants also completed the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale (RSES), Neurological Disorders Depression Inventory for Epilepsy (NDDI‐E), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD‐7), Epilepsy Knowledge Scale, and items on “overall quality of life (QOL)” and “overall health” (items from QOLIE‐31).ResultsOne hundred twenty‐eight of 146 patients asked to participate granted informed consent and completed the study questionnaire (87.7% response rate). 115 cases were analyzed since 13 did not match the inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed a single factor explaining 49.2% of the total variance. All factor loadings were >0.40, and the reliability was high (Cronbach's α = 0.80). Higher ESSS total scores were associated with higher anxiety (GAD‐7, r = 0.54, P < 0.001) and depression (NDDI‐E, r = 0.45, P < 0.001), lower self‐esteem (RSES, r = −0.41, P < 0.001), overall QOL (r = −0.40, P < 0.001), and overall health (r = −0.35, P < 0.001), but not with knowledge about epilepsy (r = 0.03, P = 0.770). In Germany, females, younger individuals, patients with earlier seizure onset, and those with generalized epilepsy had significantly higher self‐stigma.SignificanceThe German version of the ESSS proved reliable and valid. It allows to evaluate the efficacy of treatment strategies in lowering self‐stigma and conducting intercultural comparisons of epilepsy self‐stigma.
Food‐borne polyphenols: A biocompatible anchor recuperating iron homeostasis
Authors: Li Yonglu , Feng Xinyu , Zheng Xiaodong , Zhu Jiajin , Gu Qing 
Published: May 2023

AbstractFood‐borne polyphenols have long contributed to human health via multifaceted mechanisms, while emerged studies especially those published in recent 10 years have witnessed the close relevance between the bioactivity of polyphenols with iron homeostasis. Polyphenols are involved in various physiological processes of iron and manifest with multidirectional regulative effects. The diversiform polyphenols–iron interactions have extended the cognition of various disorders and diseases. This review aims to present a comprehensive scope of polyphenols–iron interactions, and the structural property, biological effects, and molecular mechanism of polyphenols on iron homeostasis were systematically illustrated, categorized, exemplified, and discussed. Multiple related disorders and diseases were focused on, and the specific polyphenols–iron interactions were elucidated during the processes of pathogenesis, development, intervention, and treatment. Present shortages such as bidirectional effects, unclear mechanism, clinical challenges, and extraction efficiency of polyphenols were also analyzed, and some innovative techniques adopted for polyphenols–iron‐based systems or therapies explorations were discussed, inspiring future perspectives for the understandings, exploitations, and correlations of both iron homeostasis and polyphenols. This review brings the polyphenols–iron interactions on the stage, telling the full story of how polyphenols anchor iron to achieve beneficial bioactivities, enlightening ideas for polyphenols–iron interactions‐based understanding of diseases, and illumining strategies for polyphenols as dietary adjuvant or future therapeutic agents for iron‐related physiological abnormality.
How to use AI in pathology
Authors: Schüffler Peter , Steiger Katja , Weichert Wilko 
Published: May 2023

AbstractAI plays an important role in pathology, both in clinical practice supporting pathologists in their daily work, and in research discovering novel biomarkers for improved patient care. Still, AI is in its starting phase, and many pathology labs still need to transition to a digital workflow to be able to enjoy the benefits of AI. In this perspective, we explain the major benefits of AI in pathology, highlight key requirements that need to be met and example how to use it in a typical workflow.