bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of therate‐all‐that‐applymethod to explore the perception of flavours provided by e‐cigarettes: Importance of 1.3‐propanediol
Authors: Nhouchi Zeineb , Belay Justine , Hanaei Farnaz , Vallet Nadine
Published: June 2023

The self‐administration of nicotine using e‐cigarettes involves the use of liquids containing both solvent and aroma. The vaping appeal is enhanced by the sensory perception of flavours. Thus, an important attention may be paid to the choice of the refill liquid. For this purpose, this study aimed to evaluate the potential of 1,3‐propanediol (PDO, vegetal solvent) and 1,3‐butanediol (BDO, vegetal solvent), in replacing the chemical one such 1,2‐propanediol (PG) while maintaining sensory pleasure and ensuring the wellbeing. The work was conducted with 30 participants accustomed to vaping. Three flavours have been selected, menthol, vanillin and pyrazine, respectively, to provide the most preferred perceptions which are respectively mint, sweet and tobacco. TheRate‐All‐That‐Apply (RATA) method was chosen since it is rapid and robust. Menthol/PDO and menthol/PG exhibited a close olfactive profile, described as minty, cold and sweet. A similar finding has been observed for vanillin/PDO and vanillin/PG. The use of BDO provided different perceptions in comparison with PDO and PG regardless of the type of flavour. It was found to be the most suitable for pyrazine perception. These results were enhanced by the application of the agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC). The obtained dendrogram was composed of three groups according to their similarities, where e‐liquids containing PDO, and PG belongs to the same groups for both menthol and vanillin.
The nutritional and bio‐active constituents, functional activities, and industrial applications of cashew (Anacardium occidentale): A review
Authors: Chen Ying‐Ying , Li Ning‐yang , Guo Xu , Huang Hai‐jie , Garcia‐Oliveira P. , Sun Jin‐yue , Zhang Jian‐dong , Prieto M. A. , Guo Zhi‐qing , Liu Chao
Published: June 2023

Cashew nut is a globally popular nut not only for its delicious and crunchy flavor but also for bioactive compounds, which present positive benefits to human health. Different parts of cashew have characteristic compounds. The kernel of cashew nut is rich in fatty acids, the testa is rich in polyphenols, cashew apple is rich in polyphenols and carotenoids, and phenols with aliphatic long chain are present in the cashew nutshell liquid. Therefore, the edible part of cashew possesses a wide range of bioactive compounds, with reported biological properties, including anti‐tumor, brain health, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection, anti‐diabetic, gastroprotection, pathophysiological disorders protection, and antioxidant. On the other hand, the inedible part of cashew, the cashew nutshell liquid, could play an important role in the industry as surface coatings, insulating formulations and so on. Hence, there are considerable demands to increase the added value of cashew, thereby exploring greater economic value. Thus, this review summarizes nutrients, bioactive compounds, biological functions, and applications of Anacardium occidentale to provide a theoretical basis and inspiration for further in‐depth studies and utilization.
Probing the functional and therapeutic properties of postbiotics in relation to their industrial application
Authors: Asif Abrar , Afzaal Muhammad , Shahid Hina , Saeed Farhan , Ahmed Aftab , Shah Yasir Abbas , Ejaz Afaf , Ghani Samia , Ateeq Huda , Khan Mahbubur Rahman
Published: June 2023

Functional foods are gaining significant research attention of researchers due to their health‐endorsing properties due to their bioactive components either living cells (probiotics) or nonviable cells (prebiotics). The term “postbiotic” specifies the soluble substances, such as enzymes, peptides, teichoic acids, muropeptides derived from peptidoglycans, polysaccharides, cell surface proteins, and organic acids, that are secreted by living bacteria or released after bacterial lysis. Due to various signaling molecules which may have antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antiinflammatory, antihypertensive, and antiproliferative activities, postbiotics offer great potential to be used in pharmaceutical, food, and nutraceutical industries, to promote health and ailment prevention. This recent review is a landmark of information relevant to the production of postbiotics along with salient features to use in various fields ranging from food to immunomodulation and selective and effective therapy. It also puts forward the concept that postbiotics are way more effective than probiotics in the veterinary, food as well as medical field which ultimately helps in reducing the disease burden along with human health.
Cover Image
Authors: Xiao Huai‐xian , Jiang Nan , Chen Xing‐zhen , Hao Ming‐hui , Zhou Jia‐wen
Published: June 2023

The cover image is based on the Special Issue Article Slope deformation detection using subpixel offset tracking and an unsupervised learning technique based on unmanned aerial vehicle photogrammetry data by Huai‐xian Xiao et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.4677

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Role of sustainable supply chain management practices in boosting environmental performance: Empirical evidence from the textile sector of developing economies
Authors: Rasheed Muhammad Faisal , Zaheer Nida , Hassan Waseem , Junaid Muhammad , Majeed Abdul
Published: June 2023

The global climate crisis hampers emerging economies, hindering textile manufacturers from implementing innovative measures to address climate change impacts in their daily operations amidst a complex and dynamic business environment. The key focus of the current study is to investigate the impact of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) practices on the operational, organizational and environmental performance of textile firms. Data from 210 textile firms in a developing country context severely impacted by climate change and global warming was collected using cluster sampling for the study. The study shows that implementing SSCM practices can improve operational efficiency and organizational and environmental performance. Furthermore, the findings indicate that environmental goals (environmental cost savings and environmental impact) can be enhanced by implementing proper SSCM practices through operational excellence. In conclusion, this study offers implications for managers and insights to policymakers and managers of the textile industry.
The committed oligodendrocyte precursor cell, a newly‐defined intermediate progenitor cell type in oligodendroglial lineage
Authors: Fang Minxi , Chen Lixia , Tang Tao , Qiu Mengsheng , Xu Xiaofeng
Published: June 2023

In the central nervous system, oligodendrocytes (OLs) produce myelin sheaths that provide trophic support to neuronal axons and increase the propagation speed of action potential. OLs are constantly generated from OL precursor cells (OPCs) throughout life span. The production of myelinating OLs consists of three canonical stages: OPCs, newly‐formed OLs (NFOs), and mature myelinating OLs. Recently, single‐cell RNA transcriptomic analyses identified a new population of oligodendroglial cells, namely differentiation committed OPCs (COPs). COPs represent a critical intermediate population between OPCs and NFOs, as revealed by specific expression of G‐protein coupled receptor 17 (GPR17). The dysregulation of COPs leads to the remyelination failure in demyelinating diseases and impairs the replacement of lost myelin sheaths due to aging. Hence, understanding the development of COPs and their underlying regulatory network will be helpful in establishing new strategies for promoting myelin repair in demyelinating diseases. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the development and functions of COPs under both physiological and pathological conditions. Overall, COPs function as “checkpoints” to prevent inappropriate precocious OL differentiation and myelination through expressing distinct regulatory factors. Deepening our understanding of COPs may not only advance our knowledge of how OL lineage progresses during development, but also open the door to new treatments for demyelinating diseases.
Centering Home Care in Bioethics Scholarship, Education, and Practice
Authors: Gary Mercer , Berlinger Nancy
Published: June 2023

This commentary responds to “Home Care in America: The Urgent Challenge of Putting Ethical Care into Practice,” by Coleman Solis and colleagues, in the May‐June 2023 issue of the Hastings Center Report. More specifically, we respond to the authors’ call for “inquiry into the nature, value, and practice” of home care. We argue that the most urgently needed normative reset for thinking about care work is the replacement of dominant individualistic thinking with systemic thinking. Deepening a focus on the social, economic, and historical forces that shape the state of contemporary care work will help bioethicists to argue more effectively for improvements to working conditions. In turn, better working conditions will ease the oppositional stance between caregivers and receivers that has been set up by the current system, enabling all parties involved to better pursue the feminist ethical ideal of care.
Assessment of health‐related behaviors among medical students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: El‐Kader Rabab G. A. , Ogale Rekha J. , Zidan Omar Omar , Al Jadaan Omar , Kumardhas Vijaya , Ahmed Sirwan K. , Dhama Kuldeep , SV Praveen , Rehman Mohammad Ebad Ur
Published: June 2023

Background and Aim

Students sometimes participate in harmful activities that adversely influence their behaviors and well‐being throughout college, which is one of the sensitive phases in an individual's life.Aim: To assess the health‐related behaviors of university students.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study that includes systematic randomly selected 383 students from various colleges of Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU), Ras Al Khaimah Emirate, United Arab Emirates. A self‐reported questionnaire included students' demographic traits and behaviors, including safety, medication intake, cigarette smoking, nutrition, physical activity, and health‐related topics.

Results

Most participants were females (69.7%), 13.3% were obese while 28.2% were overweight. The data revealed a significant difference between male and female students regarding medication intake without prescription, nutrition, physical activity, and health‐related topics. The data also revealed that the majority of the students were attempting to lose weight, and the former male smokers had fewer trials to quit the use of all tobacco products than females.

Conclusion

More than a quarter of participants were overweight, and the majority of students did not adhere to the guidelines for safety and nutritious eating. This study recognized significant health promotion opportunities for university students that can be carried out to establish a healthier youth for society.
Magnetic and chemical reaction effects on double‐diffusive convection with the effect of heat and salt flux boundary conditions
Authors: Noon Najat J. , Haddad Shatha A.
Published: June 2023

The magnetic and chemical reaction effects on the onset of thermosolutal convection in a penetrative internally heated fluid are investigated for the case when the plane layer has a constant temperature and salt concentration on the upper surface and a specified heat flux and salt flux on the bottom surface. The linear instability and nonlinear stability boundaries are analyzed using the Chebyshev collocation method to calculate the corresponding eigenvalue systems according to the boundary conditions. Two distinct internal heat source functions are examined: the first kind is a constant, and the second kind is to heat the bottom half of the surface while cooling the rest. The Rayleigh number is graphically represented with the various parameter effects. The outcomes indicate that utilizing magnetic, chemical reactions, and internal heat sources has a significant influence on defining the thermosolutal convection stabilization and destabilization thresholds. For all types of internal heat sources, it is found that the magnetic field has a stabilizing effect. It is also noted that the effects of chemical reaction, heat flux, and salt flux play important factors in the stability region.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC‐derived exosomes in animal models of central nervous system diseases: Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome
Authors: Nazari Shahrzad , Pourmand Seyed Mahmoud , Motevaseli Elahe , Hassanzadeh Gholamreza
Published: June 2023

The NLRP3 (NOD‐, LRR‐, and pyrin domain‐containing protein 3) inflammasome is a multimeric protein complex that is engaged in the innate immune system and plays a vital role in inflammatory reactions. Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and subsequent release of proinflammatory cytokines can be triggered by microbial infection or cellular injury. The NLRP3 inflammasome has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many disorders affecting the central nervous system (CNS), ranging from stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and depression. Furthermore, emerging evidence has suggested that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their exosomes may modulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation in a way that might be promising for the therapeutic management of CNS diseases. In the present review, particular focus is placed on highlighting and discussing recent scientific evidence regarding the regulatory effects of MSC‐based therapies on the NLRP3 inflammasome activation and their potential to counteract proinflammatory responses and pyroptotic cell death in the CNS, thereby achieving neuroprotective impacts and improvement in behavioral impairments.
Examination of the “model minority” stereotype through ethnicity and sexual orientation heterogeneity among Asian American youth
Authors: Russell Stephen T. , McCurdy Amy L.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The “model minority” stereotype disguises heterogeneity among Asian American youth, many of whom are harmed by policies and attitudes that assume this population to be uniformly high achieving and “problem free.” The current study uses an intersectional lens to disaggregate this population by ethnicity and sexual orientation subgroups to demonstrate differences in academic performance and substance use behavior among Asian American youth. This study also investigates the extent to which racial/ethnicity and sexual orientation‐based bullying may explain such links.

Methods

Participants included 65,091 Asian American youth (46.41% Southeast Asian; 37.01% East Asian; 16.58% South Asian) in grades 6–12, who were part of the California Healthy Kids Survey (2015–2017). Participants were 49.4% female and about a third each were in grades 6–8, grades 9–10, and grades 11–12. School‐based surveys were administered. Youth reported on substance use, grades, and bias‐based bullying experiences in the past 12 months.

Results

Generalized linear mixed‐effects model results showed that outcomes varied widely across youth ethnicity and sexual orientation subgroups. Inclusion of racial/ethnic and sexual orientation bullying in these models attenuated the direct effects between ethnic and sexual identities and academic performance and substance use outcomes.

Conclusions

Implications of this work suggest that research and policy should not treat Asian American students as uniformly high‐performing and low‐risk, because the experiences of those who deviate from these assumptions will be left undetected. Interventions targeting bias‐based bullying may be able to reduce disparities in academic and substance use outcomes among Asian American youth.
The impacts of business ethics and diversity on ESG disclosure: Evidence from Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Kwok Yip , Lai Chung Yee
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the effects of board cultural diversity, audit committee experience diversity as well as business ethics on the effectiveness of oversight quality on ESG performance. Using Generalized Moments of Methods (GMM), we examine the ESG performance of the firms listed in the Hong Kong Hang Seng Composite Index between 2010 and 2015. We find that board cultural diversity and business ethics have positive correlations with ESG performance while audit committee experience diversity has a negative correlation with ESG performance. In our additional analysis, we observe that board cultural diversity is critical for improving social performance and business ethics is essential for improving environmental and social performance. However, audit committee experience diversity limits firm performance in three areas (environmental, social, and governance) of ESG performance. This is the first study that provides insights to both policymakers and practitioners by highlighting the importance of optimizing the levels of diversity and mandating the improvement of business ethics.
Antibody‐mediated inhibition of tissue‐type plasminogen activator binding to the low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 1 as a potential beneficial modulator for stroke therapy
Authors: Klecker Philip H. , Fritzen Laura , Mazura Alexander D. , Weggen Sascha , Pietrzik Claus U.
Published: June 2023

The acute ischemic stroke therapy of choice is the application of Alteplase, a drug containing the enzyme tissue‐type plasminogen activator (tPa) which rapidly destabilizes blood clots. A central hallmark of stroke pathology is blood‐brain barrier (BBB) breakdown associated with tight junction (TJ) protein degradation, which seems to be significantly more severe under therapeutic conditions. The exact mechanisms how tPa facilitates BBB breakdown are not entirely understood. There is evidence that an interaction with the lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 1 (LRP1), allowing tPa transport across the BBB into the central nervous system, is necessary for this therapeutic side effect. Whether tPa‐mediated disruption of BBB integrity is initiated directly on microvascular endothelial cells or other brain cell types is still elusive. In this study we could not observe any changes of barrier properties in microvascular endothelial cells after tPa incubation. However, we present evidence that tPa causes changes in microglial activation and BBB breakdown after LRP1‐mediated transport across the BBB. Using a monoclonal antibody targeting the tPa binding sites of LRP1 decreased tPa transport across an endothelial barrier. Our results indicate that limiting tPa transport from the vascular system into the brain by coapplication of a LRP1‐blocking monoclonal antibody might be a novel approach to minimize tPa‐related BBB damage during acute stroke therapy.
Phenol and nitrogen removal in microalgal–bacterial granular sequential batch reactors
Authors: Bucci Paula , García‐Depraect Octavio , Montero Enrique José Marcos , Zaritzky Noemí , Caravelli Alejandro , Muñoz Raúl
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Microalgal–bacterial systems work on the principle of the symbiotic relationship between algae and bacteria. The ability of algal–bacterial photobioreactors for the treatment of wastewater containing ammonia and phenol has been poorly addressed. In this work a self‐sustaining synergetic microalgal–bacterial granular sludge process was thus developed to treatment of industrial wastewater based upon the low cost of photosynthetic oxygenation and the simultaneous phenol and nitrogen removal. The performance of a conventional sequential batch reactor (SBR) based on aerobic bacterial communities (SBRB) and a microalgal–bacterial granular SBR (SBRMB) were comparatively assessed. The major challenges associated with microalgal–bacterial systems were discussed.

RESULTS

A complete removal of phenol (100 mg L−1) was achieved in both reactors. The reactors SBRB and SBRMB showed similar performance in term of removal of inorganic nitrogen. Nitrogen mass balances estimated nitrogen assimilation, nitrification and denitrification. Higher simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (70% SND) occurred in SBRB as determined by mass balances. The higher nitrogen assimilation (17.9%) by the microalgal–bacterial biomass compensated the lower denitrifying activity in SBRMB (54% SND), resulting in a removal of inorganic nitrogen (61%) similar to that obtained in SBRB (66%). N2O was not detected in the headspace of any system.

CONCLUSION

Granular microalgal–bacterial consortia implemented in SBR constitute an efficient method for industrial wastewater treatment achieving complete removal of ammonia and phenol. The application of SBRMB would be more cost effective than SBRB mainly due to the significant energy savings in SBRMB resulting in a sustainable system that contributes to the circular bioeconomy. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Safety and predictors of the success of lumbar punctures performed by a medicine procedure service
Authors: Short Andrew , Dunneback Erin , Stephens John R. , Guidici Jessica , Chatterjee Ashmita , Finn Erin , Contarino Michael , Spangler Hillary , Heath Jonathon , McEntee Jennifer , Donohoe Andrew , Hemsey David , Moore Carlton , Sturkie Emily , Kumfer Ann Marie , Campbell Robert A. , Dancel Ria
Published: June 2023

Background

Medicine procedure services (MPS) increasingly perform bedside procedures, including lumbar punctures (LPs). Success rates and factors associated with LP success performed by MPS have not been well described.

Objective

We identified patients undergoing LP by an MPS September 2015 to December 2020. We identified demographic and clinical factors, including patient position, body mass index (BMI), use of ultrasound, and trainee participation. We performed multivariable analysis to identify factors associated with LP success and complications.

Main Outcome and Measures

We identified 1065 LPs among 844 patients. Trainees participated in 82.2%; ultrasound guidance was used in 76.7% of LPs. The overall success rate was 81.3% with 7.8% minor and 0.1% major complications. A minority of LPs were referred to radiology (15.2%) or were traumatic (11.1%). In multivariable analysis, BMI > 30 kg/m2 (odds ratio [OR] 0.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21–0.48), prior spinal surgery (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.26–0.87), and Black race (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.41–0.95) were associated with decreased odds of successful LP; trainee participation (OR 2.49, 95% CI 1.51–4.12) was associated with increased odds. Ultrasound guidance (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.31–0.89) was associated with lower odds of traumatic LP.

Results

In a large cohort of patients undergoing LP by an MPS, we identified high success and low complication rates. Trainee participation was associated with increased odds of success, while obesity, prior spinal surgery, and Black race were associated with decreased odds of success. Ultrasound guidance was associated with lower odds of a traumatic LP. Our data may help proceduralists in planning and assist in shared decision‐making.
Virological characterization of the 2022 outbreak‐causing monkeypox virus using human keratinocytes and colon organoids
Authors: Watanabe Yukio , Kimura Izumi , Hashimoto Rina , Sakamoto Ayaka , Yasuhara Naoko , Yamamoto Takuya ,   The Genotype to Phenotype Japan (G2P‐Japan) Consortium, Sato Kei , Takayama Kazuo
Published: June 2023

The outbreak‐causing monkeypox virus of 2022 (2022 MPXV) is classified as a clade IIb strain and phylogenetically distinct from prior endemic MPXV strains (clades I or IIa), suggesting that its virological properties may also differ. Here, we used human keratinocytes and induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived colon organoids to examine the efficiency of viral growth in these cells and the MPXV infection‐mediated host responses. MPXV replication was much more productive in keratinocytes than in colon organoids. We observed that MPXV infections, regardless of strain, caused cellular dysfunction and mitochondrial damage in keratinocytes. Notably, a significant increase in the expression of hypoxia‐related genes was observed specifically in 2022 MPXV‐infected keratinocytes. Our comparison of virological features between 2022 MPXV and prior endemic MPXV strains revealed signaling pathways potentially involved with the cellular damages caused by MPXV infections and highlights host vulnerabilities that could be utilized as protective therapeutic strategies against human mpox in the future.
Association between parenteral nutrition–containing intravenous lipid emulsion and bloodstream infections in patients with single‐lumen central venous access: A secondary analysis of a randomized trial
Authors: Gavin Nicole C. , Larsen Emily , Runnegar Naomi , Mihala Gabor , Keogh Samantha , McMillan David , Ray‐Barruel Gillian , Rickard Claire M.
Published: June 2023

Background

Distinguishing primary bloodstream infections (BSIs) related to central venous access devices (CVADs) from those that occur through other mechanisms, such as a damaged mucosal barrier, is difficult.

Methods

Secondary analysis was conducted on data from patients with CVADs that were collected for a large, randomized trial. Patients were divided into two groups: those who received parenteral nutrition (PN)–containing intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) and those who did not have PN‐containing ILE. This study investigated the influence of PN‐containing ILE (ILE PN) on primary BSIs in patients with a CVAD.

Results

Of the 807 patients, 180 (22%) received ILE PN. Most (627/807; 73%) were recruited from the hematology and hematopoietic stem cell transplant unit, followed by surgical (90/807; 11%), trauma and burns (61/807; 8%), medical (44/807; 5%), and oncology (23/807; 3%). When primary BSI was differentiated as a central line‐associated BSI (CLABSI) or mucosal barrier injury laboratory‐confirmed BSI (MBI‐LCBI), the incidence of CLABSI was similar in the ILE PN and non–ILE PN groups (15/180 [8%] vs 57/627 [9%]; P = 0.88) and the incidence of MBI‐LCBI was significantly different between groups (31/180 [17%] ILE PN vs 41/627 [7%] non–ILE PN; P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our data indicate that twice as many primary BSIs in ILE PN patients are due to MBIs than CVADs. It is important to consider the MBI‐LCBI classification, as some CLABSI prevention efforts aimed at CVADs for the ILE PN population may be better directed to gastrointestinal tract protection interventions.
Change in stage after neoadjuvant chemoradiation is associated with survival in patients with esophageal cancer
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad M. , Lin Yue , Moeller Alexander R. , Yan Sherry X. , Dyer Michael A. , Suzuki Kei , Everett Peter , Litle Virginia , Truong Minh‐Tam , Mak Kimberley S.
Published: June 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to determine if change in stage after neoadjuvant chemoradiation (CRT) was associated with improved survival in esophageal cancer using a national database.

Methods

Using the National Cancer Database, patients with non‐metastatic, resectable esophageal cancer who received neoadjuvant CRT and surgery were identified. Comparing clinical to the pathologic stage, change in stage was classified as pathologic complete response (pCR), downstaged, same‐staged, or upstaged. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models were used to identify factors associated with survival.

Results

A total of 7745 patients were identified. The median overall survival (OS) was 34.9 months. Median OS was 60.3 months if pCR, 39.1 months if downstaged, 28.3 months if same‐staged, and 23.4 months if upstaged (p < 0.0001). On multivariable analysis, pCR was associated with improved OS compared to the other groups (downstaged: hazard ratio [HR]: 1.32 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18−1.46]; same‐staged: HR: 1.89 [95% CI: 1.68−2.13]; upstaged: HR: 2.54 [95% CI: 2.25−2.86]; all p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In this large database study, change in stage after neoadjuvant CRT was strongly associated with survival for patients with non‐metastatic, resectable esophageal cancer. There was a significant stepwise decline in survival, in descending order of pCR, downstaged tumor, same‐staged tumor, and upstaged tumor.
Anatomic Variability of the Accessory Nerve: Implications for Dissection of Level IIB
Authors: Pagedar Nitin A. , Hoffman Henry T.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

During neck dissection, level IIB lymphadenectomy necessitates manipulation of the spinal accessory nerve that might be avoided and might cause postoperative disability. Current literature does not describe the effect of variation in the spinal accessory nerve in the upper neck. We sought to measure the effect of the dimensions of level IIB on nodal yield in level IIB and on patient reported neck symptoms.

Methods

We measured the boundaries of level IIB of 150 patients undergoing neck dissection. Level II was dissected and separated into levels IIA and IIB intraoperatively. Patient‐reported symptoms were assessed in 50 patients using the Neck Dissection Impairment Inventory. We computed descriptive statistics, and sought to identify correlation with the number and proportion of level IIB nodes and the number of metastatic nodes. Level IIB dimensions were analyzed as predictors of postoperative symptoms.

Results

We measured 184 sides, with 37.7% of level II nodes found in level IIB. Mean accessory nerve length across level II was 2.5 cm. Every additional 1 cm in accessory nerve length was associated with two more level IIB nodes. At all accessory nerve lengths, meaningful numbers of nodes were present in level IIB. Accessory nerve length and other factors did not correlate with NDII scores.

Conclusions

Longer lengths of accessory nerve across level IIB correlated with greater nodal yield. However, data did not point to an accessory nerve length cutoff below which level IIB dissection could be avoided. In addition, the dimensions of level IIB did not correlate with postoperative neck symptoms.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 134:154–159, 2024
The anoxic corrosion of mild steel in a cementitious repository environment
Authors: Senior Nicholas , Martino Taylor , Diomidis Nikitas , Gaggiano Roberto
Published: June 2023

The long‐term disposal of low‐ and intermediate‐level radioactive waste is anticipated to involve the encapsulation of the material within a cementitious matrix before placement in a deep geological repository. After sealing, the waste repository will become anoxic and the corrosion of emplaced metals will result in the production of hydrogen gas. Knowledge of the rate at which this hydrogen is generated is valuable in that it permits the assessment of pressure build‐up within the repository. The corrosion behavior of mild steel has been monitored through the generation of hydrogen gas, under simulated repository conditions that mimic various stages of cement evolution. It was found that, when cement is used to encapsulate steel, the passage of several years is required for the steel and cement to reach a steady hydrogen production rate. Steel that is directly immersed in simulated cement pore water requires only months to stabilize. All measured steel uniform corrosion rates were significantly below 1 nm year−1 at 50°C, regardless of the test environment, after more than 4 years of exposure.
Experimental factors and their impact on understanding corrosion in anoxic environments
Authors: Senior Nicholas , Martino Taylor , Gaggiano Roberto , Diomidis Nikitas
Published: June 2023

The long‐term disposal of nuclear waste in deep geological repositories requires safe containment for up to one million years. To understand how the waste will respond to the gradually evolving environment, researchers can perform sensitive experiments in the laboratory to replicate the repository conditions at specific time points. In Belgium, spent nuclear fuel will be housed within a carbon steel overpack, which is encased within a cement buffer, which may include a stainless steel liner (the “envelope”). The range of corrosion behaviors for carbon steel, and to a lesser extent, stainless steel, has been studied through hydrogen evolution, an end‐product of oxidation under repository conditions. Considerable time may be required for metallic surfaces to approach a steady hydrogen evolution and this is dependent upon the starting condition of the specimen surfaces. The use of nominally‐similar materials can result in significant variation in the reported corrosion rates. The presence of cements, which generate their own hydrogen and influence water chemistry as a function of time, add complexity to even simple experimental configurations that requires careful interpretation.
Single‐peak solutions for a subcritical Schrödinger equation with non‐power nonlinearity
Authors: Liu Zhongyuan , Liu Ziying , Xu Wenhuan
Published: June 2023

This paper deals with the following slightly subcritical Schrödinger equation:
where is a nonnegative smooth function, , , , . Most of the previous works for the Schrödinger equations were mainly investigated for power‐type nonlinearity. In this paper, we will study the case when the nonlinearity is a non‐power nonlinearity. We show that, for ε small enough, there exists a family of single‐peak solutions concentrating at the positive stable critical point of the potential .
On a nonhomogeneous, nonlinear Dirichlet eigenvalue problem
Authors: Liu Zhenhai , Papageorgiou Nikolaos S.
Published: June 2023

We consider a nonlinear eigenvalue problem for the Dirichlet ‐Laplacian with a sign‐changing Carathodory reaction. Using variational tools, truncation and comparison techniques, and critical groups, we prove an existence and multiplicity result which is global in the parameter (bifurcation‐type theorem). Our work here complements the recent one by Papageorgiou–Qin–Rădulescu, Bull. Sci. Math. 172 (2021).
Effect of Macromolecular Structure on Phase Separation Regime in 3D Printed Materials
Authors: Xiu Yuan , Bobrin Valentin A. , Corrigan Nathaniel , Zhang Jin , Boyer Cyrille
Published: June 2023

In this study, the fabrication of 3D‐printed polymer materials with controlled phase separation using polymerization induced microphase separation (PIMS) via photoinduced 3D printing is demonstrated. While many parameters affecting the nanostructuration in PIMS processes are extensively investigated, the influence of the chain transfer agent (CTA) end group, i.e., Z‐group, of macromolecular chain transfer agent (macroCTA) remains unclear as previous research has exclusively employed trithiocarbonate as the CTA end group. Herein, the effect of macroCTAs containing four different Z‐groups on the formation of nanostructure of 3D printed materials is explored. The results show that the different Z‐groups lead to distinct network formation and phase separation behaviors between the resins, influencing both the 3D printing process and the resulting material properties. Specifically, less reactive macroCTAs toward acrylic radical addition, such as O‐alkyl xanthate and N‐alkyl‐N‐aryl dithiocarbamate, result in translucent and brittle materials with macrophase separation morphology. In contrast, more reactive macroCTAs such as S‐alkyl trithiocarbonate and 4‐chloro‐3,5‐dimethylpyrazo dithiocarbamate produce transparent and rigid materials with nano‐scale morphology. Findings of this study provide a novel approach to manipulate the nanostructure and properties of 3D printed PIMS materials, which can have important implications for materials science and engineering.
RAB6A functions as a critical modulator of the stem‐like subsets in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Liangfang , Zhu Zhiwen , Zheng Yang , Yang Jiaqi , Liu Yuxin , Shen Tingyun , Li Mingyi , He Huijuan , Huang Haili , Dai Wei
Published: June 2023

RAB6A is a member of RAB GTPase family and plays an important role in the targeted transport of neurotrophic receptors and inflammatory cytokines. RAB6A‐mediated secretory pathway is involved in many physiological and pathological processes. Defects in RAB6A‐mediated secretory pathway may lead to the development of many diseases, including cancer. However, its role in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) has not yet been revealed. We explored the regulatory role of RAB6A in the stem‐like subsets of CCA. We showed that RAB6A knockdown (KD) impedes cancer stem cells (CSCs) properties and epithelial−mesenchymal transition in vitro and that suppression of RAB6A inhibits tumor growth in vivo. We screened target cargos of RAB6A in CCA cells and identified a extracellular matrix component as the target cargo. RAB6A binds directly to OPN, and RAB6A KD suppressed OPN secretion and inhibited the interaction between OPN and αV integrin receptor. Moreover, RAB6A KD inhibited the AKT signaling pathway, which is a downstream effector of the integrin receptor signaling. In addition, shRNA targeting OPN blocked endogenous expression of OPN and consequently weakened CSCs properties in RAB6A‐formed spheres. Similarly, inhibitor of AKT signaling, MK2206 also impedes oncogenic function of RAB6A in the stem‐like subsets of CCA cells. In conclusion, our findings showed that RAB6A sustains CSCs phenotype maintenance by modulating the secretion of OPN and consequentially activating the downstream AKT signaling pathway. Targeting the RAB6A/OPN axis may be an effective strategy for CCA therapy.
Social and Ecological Impacts of Fire to Coastal Fisheries: A Study of the Kenai River Fishery (Alaska,USA)
Authors: Lamborn Chase C. , Smith Jordan W.
Published: June 2023

In a rapidly changing environment where fires are becoming more frequent and severe, scientists and managers need information and tools to enhance understanding of the numerous ways in which fire can affect fisheries. We used Ostrom's social–ecological systems framework to structure the development and refinement of fuzzy cognitive maps with stakeholders across the Kenai River fishery in Alaska, USA. The process yielded a model characterizing the structure and function of the Kenai River fishery. The model was then used to guide interviews with stakeholders focused on the effects of the 2019 Swan Lake Fire. We identified seven direct pathways through which fire can affect the social and ecological components of a coastal fishery. We also used the model to guide a targeted literature review to further explore how fire can affect the components of the Kenai River fishery. This synthesis of information allowed us to develop a more complete understanding of the impacts of fire on the fishery—an understanding informed by input from local stakeholders (via our interviews) and relevant scientific and management literature (via our literature review). Lastly, we used the model to assess the fishery's vulnerability to fire. We discuss how early run Chinook SalmonOncorhynchus tshawytschaconstitute a highly vulnerable component of the system and have the greatest potential to impact the fishery as a whole through a chain of negative social and ecological interactions. This final step illustrates how the model can be used to assess the vulnerability of system components to specific threats. The model of the Kenai River fishery provides an empirically grounded and easily understood visual representation of the complex dynamics affecting coastal fisheries. As such, it can be used to structure discussions among managers and stakeholders, organize our understanding of how fire affects fisheries, and assess vulnerabilities to endogenous and exogenous stressors.
Science Priorities for Offshore Wind and Fisheries Research in the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf Ecosystem: Perspectives from Scientists at the National Marine Fisheries Service
Authors: Methratta Elizabeth T. , Silva Angela , Lipsky Andrew , Ford Kathryn , Christel Douglas , Pfeiffer Lisa
Published: June 2023

Offshore wind development (OWD) is set to expand rapidly in the United States as a component of the nation's effort to combat climate change. Offshore wind development in the United States is slated to begin in the Greater Atlantic region, where it is expected to interact with ocean ecology, human dimensions, fisheries data collections, and fisheries management. Understanding these interactions is key to ensuring the coexistence of offshore wind energy with sustainable fisheries and a healthy marine ecosystem. These anticipated interactions compelled the authors, all fisheries scientists or managers at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries who are actively engaged in offshore wind science to identify scientific research priorities for OWD in the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf ecosystem, specifically in support of NOAA Fisheries' role as the nation's leading steward of marine life. We extracted and analyzed OWD research needs from existing scientific documents and used this information as the basis to develop a list of priorities that align with five major OWD science themes that are of high interest to NOAA Fisheries. These NOAA Fisheries themes include supporting the regulatory process; mitigating the impacts to NOAA Fisheries' surveys; advancing science to understand interactions with NOAA Fisheries trust resources, the marine ecosystem, and fishing industries/communities; advancing the science of mitigation for NOAA Fisheries trust resources and fishing industries/communities; and advancing data management methods. The areas identified as research priorities will support the coexistence of offshore wind and sustainable fisheries and inform the development of NOAA Fisheries' science plan for offshore wind in the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf ecosystem as well as cross-sectoral science planning efforts at the regional, national, and international levels.
Optimal transplantation strategy using human induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes for acute myocardial infarction in nonhuman primates
Authors: Li Hong‐mei , Wang Ting , Feng Yu‐yin , Sun Ke , Huang Guang‐rui , Cao Yu‐lin , Xu An‐long
Published: June 2023

Cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC‐CMs) have the potential to be a therapeutic option for myocardium restoration. However, hiPSC‐CMs of varying maturation and transplantation routes exhibit different reactivity and therapeutic effects. We previously demonstrated that the saponin+ compound induces more mature hiPSC‐CMs. The safety and efficacy of multi‐route transplantation of saponin+ compound‐induced hiPSC‐CMs in a nonhuman primate with myocardial infarction will be investigated for the first time in this study. Our findings indicate that optimized hiPSC‐CMs transplanted via intramyocardial and intravenous routes may affect myocardial functions by homing or mitochondrial transfer to the damaged myocardium to play a direct therapeutic role as well as indirect beneficial roles via anti‐apoptotic and pro‐angiogenesis mechanisms mediated by different paracrine growth factors. Due to significant mural thrombosis, higher mortality, and unilateral renal shrinkage, intracoronary transplantation of hiPSC‐CMs requires closer attention to anticoagulation and caution in clinical use. Collectively, our data strongly indicated that intramyocardial transplantation of hiPSC‐CMs is the ideal technique for clinical application; multiple cell transfers are recommended to achieve steady and protracted efficacy because intravenous transplantation's potency fluctuates. Thus, our study offers a rationale for choosing a therapeutic cell therapy and the best transplantation strategy for optimally induced hiPSC‐CMs.
Frailty trajectory predicts subsequent cognitive decline: A 26‐year population‐based longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Li Ruidan , Liu Zheran , Huang Rendong , Chen Ye , Wei Zhigong , Wang Jingjing , He Ling , Pei Yiyan , Su Yonglin , Hu Xiaolin , Peng Xingchen
Published: June 2023

Frailty refers to a decline in the physiological functioning of one or more organ systems. It remained unclear whether variations in the trajectory of frailty over time were associated with subsequent cognitive change. The aim of the current study was to investigate the association between frailty trajectories and subsequent cognitive decline based on the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). A total of 15,454 participants were included. The frailty trajectory was assessed using the Paulson–Lichtenberg Frailty Index, while the cognitive function was evaluated using the Langa–Weir Classification. Results showed that severe frailty was significantly associated with the subsequent decline in cognitive function (β [95% CI] = −0.21 [−0.40, −0.03], p = 0.03). In the five identified frailty trajectories, participants with mild frailty (inverted U‐shaped, β [95% CI] = −0.22 [−0.43, −0.02], p = 0.04), mild frailty (U‐shaped, β [95% CI] = −0.22 [−0.39, −0.06], p = 0.01), and frailty (β [95% CI] = −0.34 [−0.62, −0.07], p = 0.01) were all significantly associated with the subsequent cognition decline in the elderly. The current study suggested that monitoring and addressing frailty trajectories in older adults may be a critical approach in preventing or mitigating cognitive decline, which had significant implications for healthcare.
Clinical features and underlying mechanisms of KAT6B disease in a Chinese boy
Authors: Sun Xiaoang , Luo Xiaona , Lin Longlong , Wang Simei , Wang Chunmei , Yuan Fang , Lan Xiaoping , Yan Jingbin , Chen Yucai
Published: June 2023

Background

Lysine acetyltransferase 6B (KAT6B) encodes a highly conserved histone acetyltransferase that regulates the expression of multiple genes and is essential for human growth and development.

Methods

We identified a novel frameshift variant c.3185del (p.leu1062Argfs*52) in a 5‐year‐old Chinese boy and further analyzed KAT6B expression and its interacting complexes and downstream products using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Furthermore, we assessed its three‐dimensional protein structure and compared the variant with other reported KAT6B variants.

Results

The deletion changed the leucine at position 1062 into an arginine, resulting in translation termination after base 3340, which may have affected protein stability and protein–protein interactions. KAT6B mRNA expression levels in this case were substantially different from those of the parents and controls in the same age range. There were also significant differences in mRNA expression levels among affected children's parents. RUNX2 and NR5A1, downstream products of the gene, affect the corresponding clinical symptoms. The mRNA expression levels of the two in children were lower than those of their parents and controls in the same age range.

Conclusion

This deletion in KAT6B may affect protein function and cause corresponding clinical symptoms through interactions with key complexes and downstream products.