bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“That Was a State of Depression by Itself Dealing with Society”: Atmospheric racism, mental health, and the Black and African American faith community
Authors: Desai Miraj U. , Guy Kimberly , Brown Mychal , Thompson Denisha , Manning Bobby , Johnson Spencer , Davidson Larry , Bellamy Chyrell
Published: April 2023

Despite increased societal focus on structural racism, and its negative impact on health, empirical research within mental health remains limited relative to the magnitude of the problem. The current study—situated within a community‐engaged project with members of a predominantly Black and African American church in the northeastern US—collaboratively examined depressive experience, recovery, and the role of racism and racialized structures. This co‐designed study featured individual interviews (N = 11), a focus group (N = 14), and stakeholder engagement. A form of qualitative, phenomenological analysis that situates psychological phenomena within their social structural contexts was utilized. Though a main focal point of the study was depressive and significantly distressing experience, participant narratives directed us more towards a world that was structured to deplete and deprive—from basic neighborhood conditions, to police brutality, to workplace discrimination, to pervasive racist stereotypes, to differential treatment by health and social services. Racism was thus considered as atmospheric, in the sense of permeating life itself—with social, affective, embodied, and temporal dimensions, alongside practical (e.g., livelihood, vocation, and care) and spatial (e.g., neighborhood, community, and work) ones. The major thematic subsections—world, body, time, community, and space—reflect this fundamental saturation of racism within lived reality. There are two, interrelated senses of structural racism implicated here: the structures of the world and their impact on the structural dimensions of life. This study on the atmospheric nature of racism provides a community‐centered complement to existing literature on structural racism and health that often proceed from higher, more population level scales. This combined literature suggests placing ever‐renewed emphasis on addressing the causes and conditions that make this kind of distorted world possible in the first place.
Electronic Transmission Channels Promoting Charge Separation of Conjugated Polymers for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction with Controllable Selectivity
Authors: Chi Xu , Lan Zhi‐An , Chen Qian , Zhang Xirui , Chen Xiong , Zhang Guigang , Wang Xinchen
Published: April 2023

Conjugated polymers (CPs) represent a promising platform for photocatalytic CO2 fixation owing to their suitable band structures that meet the requirements of the reduction potential of CO2 to value‐added fuels. However, the photocatalytic performance of CPs is rather restrained by the low charge transfer efficiency. Herein, we rationally designed three CPs with a more delocalized electronic transmission channel and planar molecular structure, which are regarded to evidently reduce the exciton binding energy (Eb) and accelerate the internal charge transfer process. Besides, the assembly of suitable electron‐output “tentacles” and cocatalysts on the surface of CPs could effectively facilitate interfacial electron delivery. Accordingly, the optimal P‐2CN exhibits an apparent quantum yield of 4.6 % at 420 nm for photocatalytic CO2 to CO. Further adjusting the amounts of cyano groups and cocatalysts, the CO selectivity could be obtained in the range of 0–80.5 %.
Reconstruction of Solid Electrolyte Interphase with SrI2 Reactivates Dead Li for Durable Anode‐Free Li‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Dong Liwei , Zhong Shijie , Yuan Botao , Li Yaqiang , Liu Jipeng , Ji Yuanpeng , Chen Dongjiang , Liu Yuanpeng , Yang Chunhui , Han Jiecai , He Weidong
Published: April 2023

Without excess Li, anode‐free Li‐metal batteries (AFLMBs) have been proposed as the most likely solution to realizing highly‐safe and cost‐effective Li‐metal batteries. Nevertheless, short cyclic life puzzles conventional AFLMBs due to anodic dead Li accumulation with a local current concentration induced by irreversible electrolyte depletion, insufficient active Li reservoir and slow Li+ transfer at the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). Herein, SrI2 is introduced into carbon paper (CP) current collector to effectively suppress dead Li through synergistic mechanisms including reversible I−/I3− redox reaction to reactivate dead Li, dielectric SEI surface with SrF2 and LiF to prevent electrolyte decomposition and highly ionic conductive (3.488 mS cm−1) inner layer of SEI with abundant LiI to enable efficient Li+ transfer inside. With the SrI2‐modified current collector, the NCM532/CP cell delivers unprecedented cyclic performances with a capacity of 129.2 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Inverse and Normal Dehydrogenative Aza‐Morita–Baylis–Hillman Reactions with γ,δ‐Unsaturated Compounds
Authors: Chen Peng , Tan Shun‐Zhong , Zhu Lei , Ouyang Qin , Jia Zhi‐Jun , Du Wei , Chen Ying‐Chun
Published: April 2023

σ‐Lewis base‐catalyzed regio‐ and enantioselective aza‐Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) reaction of α,β,γ,δ‐unsaturated systems remains a challenge due to the intrinsic covalent activation mode. Here we demonstrate that a Pd0 complex can mediate the dehydrogenative reaction of γ,δ‐unsaturated compounds to give corresponding electron‐poor dienes, which further undergo δ‐regioselective umpolung Friedel–Crafts‐type addition to imines via auto‐tandem Pd0‐π‐Lewis base catalysis. After β‐H elimination of in situ formed PdII‐complexes, unprecedented and chemically inverse aza‐MBH‐type adducts are finally furnished with fair to outstanding enantioselectivity, and a diversity of functional groups and both ketimine and aldimine acceptors can be well tolerated. Moreover, switchable α‐regioselective normal aza‐MBH‐type reaction also can be realized by tuning catalytic conditions, whereas moderate to good enantioselectivity with low to excellent Z/E‐selectivity is attained.
A Fused [5]Helicene Dimer with a Figure‐Eight Topology: Synthesis, Chiral Resolution, and Electronic Properties
Authors: Zhou Qifeng , Hou Xudong , Wang Jinyi , Ni Yong , Fan Wei , Li Zhengtao , Wei Xiao , Li Ke , Yuan Wei , Xu Zhuofan , Zhu Manzhou , Zhao Yanli , Sun Zhe , Wu Jishan
Published: April 2023

Chiral shape‐persistent molecular nanocarbons are promising chiroptical materials; their synthesis, however, remains a big challenge. Herein, we report the facile synthesis and chiral resolution of a double‐stranded figure‐eight carbon nanobelt 1 in which two [5]helicene units are fused together. Two synthetic routes were developed, and, in particular, a strategy involving Suzuki coupling‐mediated macrocyclization followed by Bi(OTf)3‐catalyzed cyclization of vinyl ether turned out to be the most efficient. The structure of 1 was confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic analysis. The isolated (P,P)‐ and (M,M)‐ enantiomers show persistent chiroptical properties with relatively large dissymmetric factors (|gabs|=5.4×10−3 and |glum|=1.0×10−2), which can be explained by the effective electron delocalization along the fully conjugated belt and the unique D2 symmetry. 1 exhibits local aromatic character with a dominant structure containing eight Clar's aromatic sextet rings.
Development of thermoplastic polyether ester elastomer microcellular foam with high resilience: Effect of chain extension on foaming behavior and mechanical properties
Authors: Yu Leilei , Yu Zhen , Yang Lijuan , Wen Shibao , Zhang Zhen Xiu
Published: April 2023

The lightweight development of thermoplastic polyether ester elastomer (TPEE) has been limited by its low‐melt strength. In this work, the epoxy chain extender ADR was employed to improve TPEE's melt strength in order to enhance its foamability by supercritical N2 (sc‐N2). The results showed that the melt strength of TPEE increased gradually with the increase of ADR content, which led to the uniformity of the foam cell structure and the improvement of its mechanical properties, that is, a high resilience of 82%. However, when ADR content exceeded 1.6 phr, the viscosity was too high to induce foaming. Remarkably, the maximum stress retention of TPEE foam with 1.6 phr ADR remained at 90% after 50 cycles of compression, while the strain recovery rate was higher than 85%. The prepared TPEE foam has excellent resilience and dynamic mechanical properties, which broadens its application in fields of midsole, sports equipment and transportation.
Some psychoanalytic reflections on the Irish real estate bubble
Authors: Ryan Paul , Taffler Richard J. , Branigan Clare
Published: April 2023

We use the recent destructive Irish residential real estate bubble and its parlous economic and social consequences to explore the role of repressed ancestral suffering in driving institutional and broader societal responses to contemporary events. We demonstrate how a traumatic past can become interwoven in the fabric of the social order, rendering state and parastatal organizations and their leaders powerless. The concept of intergenerational transmission of trauma is key to our analysis. We show how the Irish obsession with owning property and land is a psychic attempt to transcend the traumatic past to “inhabit” an idealized pre‐colonial land leading to emergent feelings of empowerment, euphoria and omnipotence. We also explain why the Irish real estate bubble is being re‐enacted so soon. The potential to enhance interpretation through insights from literature, drama, and poetry is illustrated.
Use of ultrasound in gradient elution of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon mixtures by HPLC
Authors: Jeong Young Han , Eun Danbi , Van Kien Nguyen , Seog David Jin Han , Ryoo Jae Jeong
Published: April 2023

Stainless steel (SS) and polyether ether ketone (PEEK) C18 columns were submerged in an ultrasonic bath operating at a frequency of 36 kHz to separate a mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), including naphthalene, anthracene, and pyrene, using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ultrasound radiation applied at intensities ranging from 0% to 100% of the 900 W output power. Sono‐gradient elution was used to ultrasonically irradiate the mixture at specific points during the elution to improve the separation factor by increasing the interval between the target peaks and shorten the analysis time by reducing the retention time of the desired PAH peak.
PROTOCOL: Participation in organised sport to improve and prevent adverse developmental trajectories of at‐risk youth: A systematic review
Authors: Filges Trine , Verner Mette , Ladekjær Else , Bengtsen Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

This is the protocol for a Campbell systematic review. The main objective of this review is to answer the research question: What are the effects of organised sport on risk behaviour, personal, emotional and social skills of young people, who either have experienced or is at‐risk of experiencing an adverse outcome? Further, the review will attempt to answer if the effects differ between participants characteristics such as gender, age and risk indicator or between types of sport (e.g., team/individual, contact/non‐contact, intensity and duration).
Targeting alarmin release reverses Sjogren's syndrome phenotype by revitalizing Ca2+ signalling
Authors: Sun Yuyang , Nascimento Da Conceicao Viviane , Chauhan Arun , Sukumaran Pramod , Chauhan Pooja , Ambrus Julian L. , Vissink Arjan , Kroese Frans G. M. , Muniswamy Madesh , Mishra Bibhuti B. , Singh Brij B.
Published: April 2023

Background

Primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) is a systemic autoimmune disease that is embodied by the loss of salivary gland function and immune cell infiltration, but the mechanism(s) are still unknown. The aim of this study was to understand the mechanisms and identify key factors that leads to the development and progression of pSS.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry staining, FACS analysis and cytokine levels were used to detect immune cells infiltration and activation in salivary glands. RNA sequencing was performed to identify the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of pSS. The function assays include in vivo saliva collection along with calcium imaging and electrophysiology on isolated salivary gland cells in mice models of pSS. Western blotting, real‐time PCR, alarmin release, and immunohistochemistry was performed to identify the channels involved in salivary function in pSS.

Results

We provide evidence that loss of Ca2+ signaling precedes a decrease in saliva secretion and/or immune cell infiltration in IL14α, a mouse model for pSS. We also showed that Ca2+ homeostasis was mediated by transient receptor potential canonical‐1 (TRPC1) channels and inhibition of TRPC1, resulting in the loss of salivary acinar cells, which promoted alarmin release essential for immune cell infiltration/release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. In addition, both IL14α and samples from human pSS patients showed a decrease in TRPC1 expression and increased acinar cell death. Finally, paquinimod treatment in IL14α restored Ca2+ homeostasis that inhibited alarmin release thereby reverting the pSS phenotype.

Conclusions

These results indicate that loss of Ca2+ signaling is one of the initial factors, which induces loss of salivary gland function along with immune infiltration that exaggerates pSS. Importantly, restoration of Ca2+ signaling upon paquinimod treatment reversed the pSS phenotype thereby inhibiting the progressive development of pSS.
Transcriptional programing of T cell metabolism by STAT family transcription factors
Authors: Villarino Alejandro V.
Published: April 2023

T cells adapt their metabolism to meet the energetic and biosynthetic demands imposed by changes in location, behavior, and/or differentiation state. Many of these adaptations are controlled by cytokines. Traditionally, research on the metabolic properties of cytokines has focused on downstream signaling via the PI3K‐AKT, mTOR, or ERK‐MAPK pathways but recent studies indicate that JAK‐STAT is also crucial. This review synthesizes current thinking on how JAK‐STAT signaling influences T cell metabolism, focusing on adaptations necessary for the naïve, effector, regulatory, memory, and resident‐memory states. The overarching theme is that JAK‐STAT has both direct and indirect effects. Direct regulation involves STATs localizing to and instructing expression of metabolism‐related genes. Indirect regulation involves STATs instructing genes encoding upstream or regulatory factors, including cytokine receptors and other transcription factors, as well as non‐canonical JAK‐STAT activities. Cytokines impact a vast range of metabolic processes. Here, we focus on those that are most prominent in T cells; lipid, amino acid, and nucleotide synthesis for anabolic metabolism, glycolysis, glutaminolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and fatty acid oxidation for catabolic metabolism. Ultimately, we advocate the idea that JAK‐STAT is a key node in the complex network of signaling inputs and outputs which ensure that T cell metabolism meets lifestyle demands.
A Joint Study of Experimental and Computational Chemistry to Probe the Effect of Coordination Modes on the Luminescence of Uranyl‐Organic Coordination Polymers
Authors: Dai Yu‐Hao , Zhao Zhen , Wang Zi‐Xin , Liu Ning , Li Fei‐Ze , Su Jing
Published: April 2023

Despite the potential application of uranyl‐organic coordination polymers (UOCPs) in detecting metal cations and radiation rays, their luminescence properties have not been sufficiently studied at the molecular level. Herein, we synthesized a series of UOCPs (UOCP1–9) with new construction based on bipyridinium salts and diverse auxiliary ligands. The physicochemical properties of the complexes with high purity were systematically characterized, especially the luminescence spectra. A deep theoretical investigation was conducted to illustrate the relation between uranyl coordination and the luminescence spectral property. The results show that the influence of ligand type on the uranyl luminescent spectral properties increases in the order of hydroxide>oxalate>aromatic carboxylate, which can be attributed to the magnitude of orbital interaction between uranyl and ligand. This work helps to profoundly understand uranyl optical properties and electronic structure at the molecular level, providing important hints for recognizing the nature of luminescent spectral features of uranyl‐containing materials, as well as the fundamental chemistry of actinide elements.
Texture and iron‐oxygen isotope composition of magnetite in the Sanaga iron ore prospect, Nyong Series, southwestern Cameroon: Implications for the origin of the magnetite mineralization
Authors: Bafon Tasin Godlove , Bolarinwa Anthony Temidayo , Suh Cheo Emmanuel , Ngatcha Ralain Bryan , Mimba Mumbfu Ernestine , Harris Chris
Published: April 2023

The Sanaga iron ore prospect within the Palaeoproterozoic Nyong Series in Cameroon is a magnetite‐dominated iron ore deposit hosted within granodioritic gneisses with an estimated resource of 82.9 Mt @ 32.1% Fe. The main ore mineral being magnetite, provides an opportunity to study the magnetite texture and iron‐oxygen isotope composition of the mineralization, which has heretofore not been reported. These offer insights into the nature and condition of formation of the mineralization thereby paving the way for better understanding the genesis and evolution of the mineralization as well as classifying it. The mineralization is characterized by Type I and Type II magnetite varieties based on their textural features. Type I magnetite is the dominant magnetite and is characterized by ilmenite oxy‐exsolution features with triple junction contacts, while Type II magnetite lacks these features. The presence of ilmenite oxy‐exsolution features in the Type I magnetite indicates a primary magmatic formation of the magnetite followed by re‐equilibration of primary Ti‐rich magnetite in the presence of a high‐temperature fluid. Oxygen isotope (δ18O) values for the magnetite range from +2.89% to 9.30‰ indicating precipitation from evolved ore‐forming fluids through reaction with country rocks. The iron isotope (δ56Fe) of the magnetite shows little variation, with positive values ranging from +0.49–0.66‰. These values plot within the magmatic and magmatic‐hydrothermal magnetite fields when compared to the published global range of δ56Fe values for different deposit types. A similar result is obtained by plotting the coupled Fe–O isotope pair, further buttressing the magmatic‐hydrothermal origin of the mineralization. Based on these data, the Sanaga iron mineralization is best explained as a magmatic‐hydrothermal deposit.
The economic impacts of cataract surgery on sustainable vision and quality of life in Katsina state
Authors: Rabiu Mansur M. , Taryam Manal O. , Yusuf Muhammad , Maji Ibrahim Kabiru
Published: April 2023

Background

This study investigates the economic impacts of eye care interventions on the quality of life in Katsina state. Eye care intervention is a requirement for equitable and inclusive development in the state.

Methods

The study used a survey method and 5‐point Likert scale questionnaire to collect data. A multistage sampling strategy was employed to select 300 beneficiaries from the existing beneficiaries of Noor Dubai Foundation (NDF) eye care interventions.

Results

The findings show that cataract surgery interventions improve economic benefits and quality of life of beneficiaries in Katsina state. The results show that productivity, income, employability, dignity and skills of beneficiaries have improved significantly after the cataract surgery. Precisely, 96.2% of the beneficiaries agree that their productivity has improved; 99.6% of the beneficiaries revealed that their income has improved; 99% of respondents evidence that their employability has improved; 90% of beneficiaries have experienced an improvement in their dignity; while 97% agreed that their skills have improved.

Conclusion

The implication of these findings is that poor eye health is negatively related to economic benefits and quality of life while good eye health is a vital determinant of standard of living. Without good eye health, it is hard to participate in the labour force, produce goods and earn income. Thus, the Katsina state government should further improve awareness of good eye health to mitigate preventable cases of blindness for equitable and inclusive development.
Refining prognosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia with normal Fluorescence in situ hybridization results
Authors: Avenarius Matthew R. , Huang Ying , Hyak Jonathan , Byrd John C. , Bhat Seema A. , Grever Michael , Kittai Adam S. , Rogers Kerry A. , Jones Dan , Zhao Weiqiang , Heerema Nyla A. , Abruzzo Lynne V. , Woyach Jennifer , Miller Cecelia R.
Published: April 2023

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to detect the recurrent cytogenetics abnormalities deletion 13q, trisomy 12, deletion 11q, and deletion 17p is important for prognostication in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). A subset of patients are negative for each of these abnormalities (normal 12/13/11/17 FISH), and outcomes are heterogenous within this group. To elucidate variables important for prognostication in this subgroup we conducted a retrospective analysis of 280 treatment‐naïve CLL patients with normal standard CLL FISH results. In a multivariable model, advanced Rai stage (p = 0.04, hazard ratio [HR] 1.24 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.53)), unmutated immunoglobulin heavy chain gene (IGHV) (p < 0.0001, HR 5.59 (95% CI 3.63–8.62)) and IGH rearrangement by FISH (p = 0.02, HR 2.56 (95% CI 1.20–5.48)) were significantly associated with shorter time to first treatment. In a multivariable model for overall survival, increasing age at 5‐year increments (p < 0.0001, HR 1.55 (95% CI 1.25–1.93)), unmutated IGHV (p = 0.01, HR 5.28 (95% CI 1.52–18.35)) and gain of REL (p = 0.01, HR 4.08 (5% CI 1.45–11.49)) were significantly associated with shorter survival. Our study identifies variables important for refining prognosis for CLL patients with normal standard CLL FISH results.
Trichomonas vaginalis infection is associated with increased risk of cervical carcinogenesis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of 470 000 patients
Authors: Hamar Balázs , Teutsch Brigitta , Hoffmann Eszter , Hegyi Péter , Váradi Alex , Nyirády Péter , Hunka Zsombor , Ács Nándor , Lintner Balázs , Hermánné Réka Juhász , Melczer Zsolt
Published: April 2023

Background

Trichomonas vaginalis infection is the most prevalent non‐viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) in women and has been suggested as a risk factor for developing cervical cancer.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the associations between T. vaginalis infection and cervical carcinogenesis.

Search Strategy

A comprehensive systematic search was conducted in five databases on 21 October 2021.

Selection Criteria

Studies assessing the relationship between T. vaginalis infection, HPV co‐infections, cervical dysplasia, and cervical cancer were found eligible.

Data Collection and Analysis

Summary estimates for pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated with a random‐effects model. Statistical heterogeneity was measured with I2 and Cochran's Q tests.

Main Results

The 29 articles included 473 740 women, of whom 8518 were T. vaginalis‐positive. Our results showed that T. vaginalis‐infected women had 1.79 times higher odds of being diagnosed with HPV co‐infection (95% CI 1.27–2.53; I2 95%). We also found that T. vaginalis infection was associated with high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion diagnosis (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.10–4.95; I2 75%) and cervical cancer (OR 5.23, 95% CI 3.03–9.04; I2 3%).

Conclusions

Our results showed an association between T. vaginalis and cervical carcinogenesis in sexually active women.
Ethnobotanical significance of medicinal plants: Beta‐amyloid and tau aggregation inhibitors against Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ganapathy A. Anand , Haripriya Vijayakumari M. , Acharya Niyati , Somappa Sasidhar B. , Kumaran Alaganandam
Published: April 2023

Among the various neurodegenerative disorders, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is identified as one of primary causes of dementia in the elderly, which progresses slowly leading to cognitive decline and ability to function independently. Although various pathological mechanisms have been proposed, the exact mechanism is not yet elucidated. Numerous processes such as old age, mitochondrial dysfunction, and genetics lead to the aggregation of beta‐amyloid (Aβ) as amyloid plaques and tau proteins as neurofibrillary tangles in the neurons leading to their death and destruction, finally leading to AD. The current treatment measures can only temporarily improve the symptoms, slowing cognitive decline without any effect on AD pathology for better therapeutic effect. Furthermore, the high failure rates of a number of drugs during clinical trials due to their side effects has led the researchers to focus on alternative sources for drug development. As natural ingredients were considered the primary line of treatment in the olden days, and as several medicinal plant products are also proven as effective AD targets, it will be wise to investigate those with significant ethnobotanical value as potential neuroprotectives, nootropics or memory boosters. Throughout the study, propanoids, glycosides, iridoids, carotenoids and flavonoids that show potential anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti‐cholinesterase were also found to be inhibitors of Aβ and tau aggregation, where Saikosaponin C, Fisetin, and Morin can act as dual inhibitors. The review provides an insight in the need for proper and complete scientific evaluation of these ethnobotanically useful medicinal plants to be identified as potential leads in AD therapy.
Ameliorative effect of resveratrol against cymoxanil‐mancozeb induced toxicity in rats
Authors: Mohamed Wafaa H. , El‐Amir Yasmin O. , Yahia Doha
Published: April 2023

This study was conducted to evaluate the cymoxanil‐mancozeb (CM) toxicity and investigate the ameliorative effect of resveratrol (Res) against cymoxanil‐mancozeb toxicity. Forty rats were divided into four groups; the first group was used as a control group, the second group was exposed to Res only at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight for 4 weeks, and the third group was administered CM only at a dose of 799 mg/kg body weight for 4 weeks, The fourth group was co‐treated with Res+CM for 4 weeks. Blood samples were analyzed for hematological and biochemical parameters. The comet assay was done on liver and blood specimens and histopathological examinations of the liver and intestine. The results demonstrated that CM exposure caused a significant increase in WBCs, lymphocytes, granulocytes, monocytes ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT, and total cholesterol and triglycerides levels accompanied by a decrease in HGB, HCT, RBCs and MCV, MCH, MCHC, HDL and glucose levels with no significant DNA damage in liver and blood. CM mixture induced severe pathological changes in small intestine and liver. Co‐treatment of Res with CM improved hematological picture, lipid and glucose profiles also liver enzymes and decreased changes in the architecture of the liver and intestine.
Molecular mechanisms of oxidative stress‐related neonatal jaundice
Authors: Perrone Serafina , Lembo Chiara , Giordano Maurizio , Petrolini Chiara , Cannavò Laura , Gitto Eloisa
Published: April 2023

Oxidative stress is a pathological condition characterized by an overload of oxidant products, named free radicals, which are not well counteracted by antioxidant systems. Free radicals induce oxidative damage to many body organs and systems. In neonatal red blood cells, free‐radical mediated‐oxidative stress leads to eryptosis, a suicidal death process of erythrocytes consequent to alteration of cell integrity. Neonatal red blood cells are targets and at the same time generators of free radicals through the Fenton and Haber‐Weiss reactions. Enhanced eryptosis in case of oxidative stress damage may cause anemia if the increased loss of erythrocytes is not enough compensated by enhanced new erythrocytes synthesis. The oxidative disruption of the red cells may cause unconjugated idiopathic hyperbilirubinemia in neonates. High levels of bilirubin are recognized to be dangerous for the central nervous system in newborns, however, many studies have highlighted the antioxidant function of bilirubin. Recently, it has been suggested that physiologic concentration of bilirubin correlates with higher antioxidant status while high pathological bilirubin levels are associated with pro‐oxidants effects. The aim of this educational review is to provide an updated understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying erythrocyte oxidant injury and its reversal in neonatal idiopathic hyperbilirubinemia.
Bisphenol A prevents MCF‐7 breast cell apoptosis via the inhibition of progesterone receptor transactivation
Authors: Ogawa Masahiro , Kitamoto Junya , Takeda Takeo , Terada Megumi
Published: April 2023

2,2‐Bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)propane (bisphenol A; BPA) is an environmental endocrine‐disrupting chemical. It mimics the effects of estrogen at multiple levels by activating estrogen receptors (ERs); however, BPA also affects the proliferation of human breast cancer cells independent of ERs. Although BPA inhibits progesterone (P4) signaling, the toxicological significance of its effects remain unknown. Tripartite motif‐containing 22 (TRIM22) has been identified as a P4‐responsive and apoptosis‐related gene. Nevertheless, it has not yet been established whether exogenous chemicals change TRIM22 gene levels. Therefore, the present study investigated the effects of BPA on P4 signaling and TRIM22 and TP53 expression in human breast carcinoma MCF‐7 cells. In MCF‐7 cells incubated with various concentrations of P4, TRIM22 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels increased in a dose‐dependent manner. P4 induced apoptosis and decreased viability in MCF‐7 cells. The knockdown of TRIM22 abolished P4‐induced decreases in cell viability and P4‐induced apoptosis. P4 increased TP53 mRNA expression and p53 knockdown decrease the basal level of TRIM22 and P4 increased TRIM22 mRNA expression independent of p53 expression. BPA attenuated P4‐induced increases in the ratio of cell apoptosis in a concentration‐dependent manner, and the P4‐induced decreases in cell viability was abolished in the presence of 100 nM and higher BPA concentrations. Furthermore, BPA inhibited P4‐induced TRIM22 and TP53 expression. In conclusion, BPA inhibited P4‐induced apoptosis in MCF‐7 cells via the inhibition of P4 receptor transactivation. TRIM22 gene has potential as a biomarker for investigating the disruption of P4 signaling by chemicals.
Exploring how naturally occurring mentorships emerge within a Mexican cultural context
Authors: Baker Cervantes Aaron Stewart , Jiménez Tiffeny R.
Published: April 2023

Natural youth mentoring focuses on cross‐age relationships that develop organically outside the construct of youth programs. In the United States, research has demonstrated the positive impact of these mentorships and scholars have applied natural concepts to formal mentoring schema. Little work has been done to examine how these relationships emerge and the factors that impact their development. This study, designed in partnership with a school in rural México, aimed to unpack these questions using grounded theory. Participants were students, alumni, and teachers. Data were collected through semistructured interviews. Findings indicate that despite adults' interest to create mentorships, adolescents and emerging adults will likely not be receptive until they are cognitively and emotionally ready. This study illuminated three factors of readiness—inhibitors, promoters, and activators—which contribute to this state of readiness at which point engagement with an adult seems to elevate from the typical bounds of youth–adult relationships to the natural mentorship level.
A Retrospective Cohort Study Examining the Effects of Anti‐PD‐1 Antibody in Combination with Apatinib in Patients Previously Treated for Her2‐Negative Advanced Gastric/Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
Authors: Hou Xin‐Fang , Zhang Xin‐Xin , Li Shuai , Wu Chen , Chen Xiao‐Bing
Published: April 2023

Combining immune checkpoint inhibitors with vascular endothelial growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitors is effective in treating a number of solid tumors; however, evidence in advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancer is limited. This retrospective study included consecutive patients who received a programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) inhibitor plus the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 inhibitor apatinib, second‐line or later to treat unresectable advanced or metastatic, histologically proven, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative G/GEJ cancer in a single center between November 1, 2018, and March 31, 2021. Treatment was continued until the disease progressed or the toxicity became intolerable. We examined data from 52 patients. The primary tumor site was the stomach in 29 patients and the GEJ in 23 patients. PD‐1 inhibitors administered included camrelizumab (n = 28), sintilimab (n = 18), pembrolizumab (n = 3), and tislelizumab (n = 1), and all patients were given 200 mg every 3 weeks, and toripalimab (240 mg every 3 weeks) and nivolumab (200 mg every 2 weeks) were given to 1 patient each. For 28 days, apatinib 250 mg was administered orally once a day. The objective response rate was 15.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.9‐28.1), and the disease control rate was 61.5% (95%CI, 47.0‐74.7). After 14.8 months of median follow‐up, the median progression‐free survival was 4.2 months (95%CI, 2.6‐4.8), and the overall survival was 9.3 months (95%CI, 7.9‐12.9). Twelve patients underwent grade 3‐4 treatment‐related adverse events (23.1%). There was no unexpected toxicity or death. This trial demonstrated combination therapy with an anti–PD‐1 antibody and apatinib was effective and safe in patients with previously treated unresectable advanced or metastatic G/GEJ cancer.
Effect of konjac oligo‐glucomannan on emulsifying properties of myofibrillar protein
Authors: Duan Ziqiang , Wang Yuntao , Yu Xiao , Wu Nan , Pang Jie , Bai Yanhong
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

The high viscosity of konjac glumannan (KGM) limits its application in meat processing. In this work, the effects of konjac oligo‐glucomannan (KOG), as a derivative of KGM, on the emulsifying properties of myofibrillar protein (MP) and the related mechanism were investigated.

RESULTS

It was found that the addition of KOG had no significant effect on the secondary structure of MP, but altered the tertiary conformation of MP, resulting in exposure of tyrosine residues to polar microenvironments and decreased intrinsic fluorescence intensity. In addition, the addition of KOG increased the emulsifying activity of MP, resulting in decreased particle size and improved physical stability of the emulsion. The emulsifying activity of MP reached the maximum value when 1.0 wt% KOG was added. Moreover, the interfacial tension and interfacially adsorbed protein content of MP/KOG emulsions decreased with the increase in KOG concentration.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrated that KOG mainly interacted with MP and changed the amphipathy of the KOG‐MP at the oil–water interface, forming a stable interface film to improve the emulsifying properties of MP. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
A new insight into the biosynthesis, structure, and functionality of waxy maize starch under drought stress
Authors: Wu Wenhao , Zhong Yuyue , Liu Yilin , Xu Renyuan , Zhang Xudong , Liu Na , Guo Dongwei
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Drought stress (DS) is the main abiotic stress that maize suffers during its whole growth period, and maize is also sensitive to DS. It had been demonstrated that DS could improve the quality of normal maize starch. However, waxy maize, which has special properties, has not been explored in depth, which limits the breeding and cultivation of waxy maize varieties and the application of waxy maize starch. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of DS on the biosynthesis, structure, and functionality of waxy maize starch.

RESULTS

The results showed that DS decreased the expression level of SSIIb, SSIIIa, GBSSIIa, SBEI, SBEIIb, ISAII, and PUL, but increased the expression level of SSI and SBEIIa. DS did not change the average chain length of amylopectin, while increased the relative content of fa chains (RCfa) and decreased the RCfb1 and RCfb3. Furthermore, DS decreased the amylose content, amorphous lamellar distance da, semi‐crystalline repeat distance, and average particle size, whereas it increased the relative crystallinity, crystalline distance dc, the content of rapidly digested starch in the uncooked system and resistant starch content in both the uncooked and cooked system.

Conclusions

For waxy maize, DS could raise the relative expression level of SSI and SBEIIa, thus increasing RCfa. The larger number of RCfa could create steric hindrance, which can lead to producing more resistant starch in waxy maize starch. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Improved functional status in patients undergoing cement and rebar reconstruction with total hip arthroplasty for uncontained metastatic tumors of the acetabulum
Authors: Mittal Ashish , Tamer Pierre , Shapton John , Morse Lee J. , Jang Eugene S. , Fang Andrew S.
Published: April 2023

Background and Objective

Metastatic cancer of the acetabulum can produce marked pain and disability for patients. Several reconstruction techniques for such lesions have been described, with variable outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine functional outcomes and complication rate for patients undergoing cement rebar reconstruction using posterior column screws with total hip arthroplasty for large, uncontained lesions of the acetabulum.

Methods

Twenty‐two consecutive patients who underwent cement rebar reconstruction with posterior column screws and total hip arthroplasty for metastatic tumors of the acetabulum between 2014 and 2017 were identified. All cases were reviewed for patient demographics, surgical parameters, implant survival, complications, and functional status following these procedures.

Results

There was a significant increase in the proportion of patients able to ambulate post‐surgery (95.5%) compared with presurgery (22.7%) (p < 0.001). Mean musculoskeletal tumor society score postoperatively was 17.9 (60%). Average operative time was 174 min and average estimated blood loss was 689 mL. Seven patients required an intraoperative or postoperative blood transfusion. Three patients had postoperative complications (14%), two of whom required revision (9%).

Conclusion

Reconstruction using cement rebar with posterior column screws and total hip arthroplasty is a safe, reproducible approach that may greatly improve functional outcomes with a low rate of intraoperative or postoperative complications.
Preoperative glucose in surgical oncology patient is not associated with postoperative outcomes after adjustment for frailty
Authors: Huang Alex , Tin Amy L. , Vickers Andrew J. , Shahrokni Armin , Flory James
Published: April 2023

Background

Observational studies have shown associations between even small elevations in preoperative glucose and poorer outcomes, including increased length of stay (LOS) and higher mortality. This has led to calls for aggressive glycemic control in the preoperative period, including delay of treatment until glucose is reduced. However, it is not known whether there is a direct causal effect of blood glucose or whether adverse outcomes result from overall poorer health in patients with higher glucose.

Methods

Analysis was performed using a retrospective database of patients aged 65 and older who underwent cancer surgery. The last measured preoperative glucose was the exposure variable. The primary outcome was extended LOS (>4 days). Secondary outcomes included mortality, acute kidney injury (AKI), major postoperative complications during the admission period, and readmission within 30 days. The primary analysis was a logistic regression with prespecified covariates: age, sex, surgical service, and the Memorial Sloan Kettering‐Frailty Index. In an exploratory analysis, lasso regression was used to select covariates from a list of 4160 candidate variables.

Results

This study included 3796 patients with a median preoperative glucose of 104 mg/dL (interquartile range: 93–125). Higher preoperative glucose was univariately associated with increased odds of LOS > 4 days (odds ratio [OR]: 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22–1.73), with similar results for AKI, readmission, and mortality. Adjustment for confounders eliminated these associations for LOS (OR: 0.97 [95% CI: 0.80–1.18]) and attenuated all other glucose‐outcome associations. Lasso regression gave comparable results to the primary analysis. Using the upper bound of the respective 95% confidence interval, we estimated that, at best, successful reduction of elevated preoperative glucose would reduce the risk of LOS > 4 days, 30‐day major complication, and 30‐day mortality by 4%, 0.5%, and 1.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Poor outcomes following cancer surgery in older adults with elevated glucose are most likely related to poorer overall health in these patients rather than a direct causal effect of glucose. Aggressive glycemic management in the preoperative period has very limited potential benefits and is therefore unwarranted.
High‐Density Surface Electromyography for Swallowing Evaluation in Post‐Radiation Dysphagia
Authors: Leung Karman Ka Ying , Fong Raymond , Zhu Mingxing , Li Guanglin , Chan Jason Ying Kuen , Stewart Michael , Ku Peter Ka Ming , Lee Kathy Yuet Sheung , Tong Michael Chi Fai
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Our study aimed to investigate the feasibility of using high‐density surface electromyography (HD‐sEMG) for swallowing assessment by comparing the quantitative parameters and topographic patterns of HD‐sEMG between post‐irradiated patients and healthy individuals.

Methods

Ten healthy volunteers and ten post‐irradiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients were recruited. 96‐channel HD‐sEMG was recorded although each participant consumed different consistencies of food (thin and thick liquid, puree, congee, and soft rice). Dynamic topography was generated from the root mean square (RMS) of the HD‐sEMG signals to illustrate the anterior neck muscle function in the swallowing process. The averaged power of muscles and the symmetry of swallowing patterns were assessed by objective parameters including average RMS, Left/Right Energy Ratio, and Left/Right Energy Difference.

Results

The study showed different swallowing patterns between patients with dysphagia and healthy individuals. The mean RMS values were higher in the patient group compared to the healthy group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Asymmetrical patterns were shown in patients with dysphagia.

Conclusion

HD‐sEMG is a promising technique that could be used to quantitatively evaluate the average power of neck muscles and the symmetry of swallowing activities in patients with swallowing difficulties.

Level of Evidence

Level 3 Laryngoscope, 133:2920–2928, 2023
Biobased Polyamide 4,36 Thermoplastic Elastomer and its Cellulose Nanocomposites
Authors: Nurhamiyah Yeyen , Chen Biqiong
Published: April 2023

The search for fossil fuel‐based polymer alternatives has attracted significant attention over the past few decades. A biobased polyamide elastomer, namely PA4,36, is synthesized through a facile polycondensation of fatty acid‐based monomer and 1,4‐butanediamine. The chemical structure and molecular weight distribution of the polymer are characterized by Fourier infrared spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. PA4,36 displays a medium hardness (Shore A/Shore D = 97/50), a high stretchability (1116%), ease of melt processing, and hydrophobicity. The introduction of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to the elastomer reduces the melting temperature and crystallization temperature due to the disturbance of CNCs on polymer crystallization, and influences its thermal degradation. It improves the glass transition temperature by up to 5.1 °C because of the restriction of the molecular mobility of the polymer by CNCs. It increases the storage modulus significantly from 1.5 GPa at 25 °C for neat PA4,36, to up to 10.8 GPa for the nanocomposite with 10 wt.% CNCs. The biobased elastomer and its CNC nanocomposites can be promising alternatives to some fossil fuel‐based elastomers with medium hardness.
A new stochastic approach to the spread of environmental events enhanced by the wind
Authors: Boters Pitarch Joan , Signes Pont María Teresa , Cortés‐Plana José Juan , Mora Higinio
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this paper is to present a stochastic approach of the expansion of adverse environmental events which are enhanced by the wind. Our model follows a scheme based on the well‐known Susceptible‐Infected‐Recovered (SIR) model. The expansion takes place in a grid where the cells represent an individual (or even a group) in the population under study. The state of the cells is modeled by a random variable which is a measure of the intensity and direction of the wind. As time passes, the status of the cells is determined according to both an update criterion and a probabilistic neighborhood relationship. In addition, in building the expansion model, we have defined a set of adjustable parameters, which will have an effect on the rate of propagation of the phenomenon.