bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENYELESAIAN SENGKETA KREDIT MACET ANTARA BANK SYARIAH DAN NASABAH DEBITUR DI PENGADILAN
Authors: PRATIWI SUSANTY ADE
Published: November 2023

Bank syariah adalah bank yang menjalankan kegiatan usaha berdasarkan prinsip-prinsip hukum Islam dalam kegiatan perbankan berdasarkan fatwa yang dikeluarkan oleh Dewan Syariah Nasional Majelis Ulama Indonesia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan penyelesaian sengketa kredit macet antara bank syariah dan nasabah debitur di pengadilan. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian hukum normatif dengan menggunakan pendekatan peraturan perundang-undangan. Pandemi Virus Corona yang melanda Indonesia sejak tahun 2020 berdampak terhadap perekonomian masyarakat, terutama para pedagang. Akibatnya adalah nasabah debitur bank syariah mengalami kredit macet. Pada tahun 2021, BPR Syariah Syarikat Madani menggugat debiturnya yang bernama Herry Mondarto ke Pengadilan Agama Batam karena telah melakukan wanprestasi berdasarkan Perjanjian Kredit Nomor 100/BPRS-SM/IV/2016 tahun 2016. Selama proses persidangan di Pengadilan Agama Batam, Herry Mondarto tidak pernah datang menghadiri undangan sidang. Dalam Putusan Pengadilan Agama Batam Nomor 6/Pdt.G.S/2020/PA.Btm tahun 2021 dinyatakan bahwa Herry Mondarto diwajibkan membayar utangnya sebesar Rp211.968.518 atau menyerahkan agunan kredit berupa sebidang tanah dan rumah yang ada di atasnya dengan alas hak Sertifikat Hak Guna Bangunan Nomor 2137 di Perumahan Indotri Blok F Nomor 3 Kota Batam seluas 72 m2 atas nama Herry Mondarto kepada BPR Syariah Syarikat Madani.
The population genetics of convergent adaptation in maize and teosinte is not locally restricted
Authors: Tittes Silas , Lorant Anne , McGinty Sean P , Holland James B , de Jesus Sánchez-González Jose , Seetharam Arun , Tenaillon Maud , Ross-Ibarra Jeffrey
Published: November 2023

What is the genetic architecture of local adaptation and what is the geographic scale over which it operates? We investigated patterns of local and convergent adaptation in five sympatric population pairs of traditionally cultivated maize and its wild relative teosinte (Zea mays subsp. parviglumis). We found that signatures of local adaptation based on the inference of adaptive fixations and selective sweeps are frequently exclusive to individual populations, more so in teosinte compared to maize. However, for both maize and teosinte, selective sweeps are also frequently shared by several populations, and often between subspecies. We were further able to infer that selective sweeps were shared among populations most often via migration, though sharing via standing variation was also common. Our analyses suggest that teosinte has been a continued source of beneficial alleles for maize, even after domestication, and that maize populations have facilitated adaptation in teosinte by moving beneficial alleles across the landscape. Taken together, our results suggest local adaptation in maize and teosinte has an intermediate geographic scale, one that is larger than individual populations but smaller than the species range.
Effect of Organic and Inorganic Manures on Growth and Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) cv. Arka Anamika
Authors: Narwariya Ruby , Sharma Ankur , Pal Ratan Kumar , Dahiya Priyanka
Published: November 2023

The field experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Research CRC Farm – 1 of the Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture, ITM University Gwalior (M.P.) during the year 2022 to study the effect of organic and inorganic manure on growth, yield and quality of okra. The experiment was laid out in the randomized block design with three replications and twelve treatments viz. FYM, Vermicompost, FYM + Vermicompost, 50% RDF + FYM, 50 % RDF + Vermicompost, 50 % RDF +FYM + Vermicompost, 75% RDF +FYM), 75% RDF + Vermicompost, 75% RDF +FYM +Vermicompost, 100% RDF +FYM), 100% RDF + Vermicompost, 100 % RDF +FYM + Vermicompost. A single standard variety (Arka Anamika) is sown with the different treatment combination with the plant to plant and row to row spacing maintained at 45 cm x 60 cm respectively. On the basis of the study, the results indicated that the application of 100% RDF +FYM + Vermicompost in Arka Anamika recorded significantly higher plant height (80.20 cm), number of branches per plant (8.58), number of leaves per plant at 90 DAS (68.83). However, higher yield (5.89q /ha) was recorded with the application of the 100% RDF +FYM + Vermicompost. Thus, integrated application of organic and inorganic manures improves the growth and yield of okra crop.
Impurity Bands and Density of State in Doped Silicate Glasses with Metal Oxides (RuO2, CuO, MnO2)
Authors: Abdurakhmanov G. , Dekhkanov A. , Tursunov M. , Tashmukhamedova D.
Published: November 2023

In this article, as a result of double alloying with ruthenium, copper, manganese oxides, the formation of an impurity band in silicate glass and how the density of electron states changes in it was studied by hypothetical and tunneling microprobe spectroscopy. The results of the experiment were processed using Wolfram Mathematica 11 software. It was found that around room temperature, the impurity band touches or merges with the valence band of the glass. At a high temperature (around 1000 K), the impurity band separates from the valence band of the glass, and a pseudo-gap appears between them. As a result, doped silicate glass exhibits metallic conductivity at room temperature, but at high temperatures, it has semiconductor (activation) conductivity.
New robust state‐estimation frameworks for angles‐only underwater target tracking problems
Authors: Urooj Asfia , Radhakrishnan Rahul
Published: November 2023

Tracking a moving target using only angle measurements is a challenging and complex problem. This is because the measurements received from a sensor on a moving observer provide very little information about the target's movements. Additionally, there are uncertainties regarding the target's initial range and speed, which can further complicate the estimation process. The angle measurements themselves carry a lot of uncertainties as they can be affected by significant outliers, which do not fit the standard Gaussian distribution that estimation algorithms typically assume. Furthermore, the observer's position can also be uncertain due to various environmental factors. To address these challenges and to propose a robust, unified and accurate solution, two new estimation frameworks are proposed. They involve making use of a range and speed parametrization approach to compensate for the initial uncertainty in the target's range and speed. They also involve using a maximum correntropy (MC) criterion and a numerically stable centered error entropy (CEE) criterion to deal with measurement outliers and the observer motion uncertainties. The performance of the proposed frameworks is evaluated by comparing them to the traditional unscented Kalman filter (UKF) and its parametrized versions using different performance metrics. The simulations conducted showed that the developed algorithms perform better in terms of estimation accuracy than conventional methods. Specifically, the second framework based on the CEE criterion outperformed MC‐based estimators.
Identification of Surface Markers and Functional Characterization of Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cell‐Like Adherent Cells
Authors: Co Soriano John Clyde , Tsutsumi Shiho , Ohara Daiya , Hirota Keiji , Kondoh Gen , Niwa Tatsuya , Taguchi Hideki , Kadonosono Tetsuya , Kizaka‐Kondoh Shinae
Published: November 2023

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cell (MDSC)‐like adherent cells (MLACs) are a recently identified CD11b+F4/80− myeloid cell subset that can infiltrate tumors early in development and promote their growth. Because of these functions, MLACs play an important role in establishing an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the lack of MLAC‐specific markers has hampered further characterization of this cell type. This study identifies the gene signature of MLACs by analyzing RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) and public single‐cell RNA‐seq data, revealing that MLACs are an independent cell population that are distinct from other intratumoral myeloid cells. After combining proteome analysis of membrane proteins with RNA‐seq data, H2‐Ab1 and CD11c are indicated as marker proteins that can support the isolation of MLAC subsets from CD11b+F4/80− myeloid cells by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. The CD11b+F4/80−H2‐Ab1+ and CD11b+F4/80−CD11c+ MLAC subsets represent approximately half of the MLAC population that is isolated based on their adhesion properties and possess gene signatures and functional properties similar to those of the MLAC population. Additionally, membrane proteome analysis suggests that MLACs express highly heterogeneous surface proteins. This study facilitates an integrated understanding of heterogeneous intratumoral myeloid cells, as well as the molecular and cellular details of the development of an immunosuppressive TME.
Developing Liver Microphysiological Systems for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Wang Jinglin , Wu Xiangyi , Zhao Junqi , Ren Haozhen , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: November 2023

Microphysiological systems (MPSs), also known as organ chips, are micro‐units that integrate cells with diverse physical and biochemical environmental cues. In the field of liver MPSs, cellular components have advanced from simple planar cell cultures to more sophisticated 3D formations such as spheroids and organoids. Additionally, progress in microfluidic devices, bioprinting, engineering of matrix materials, and interdisciplinary technologies have significant promise for producing MPSs with biomimetic structures and functions. This review provides a comprehensive summary of biomimetic liver MPSs including their clinical applications and future developmental potential. First, the key components of liver MPSs, including the principal cell types and engineered structures utilized for cell cultivation, are briefly introduced. Subsequently, the biomedical applications of liver MPSs, including the creation of disease models, drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity, are discussed. Finally, the challenges encountered by MPSs are summarized, and future research directions for their development are proposed.
Pyroptosis Induction with Nanosonosensitizer‐Augmented Sonodynamic Therapy Combined with PD‐L1 Blockade Boosts Efficacy against Liver Cancer
Authors: Zhang Nisi , Zeng Wenlong , Xu Yunxue , Li Rui , Wang Mengxuan , Liu Yijia , Qu Shuai , Ferrara Katherine W. , Dai Zhifei
Published: November 2023

Induction of pyroptosis can promote anti‐PD‐L1 therapeutic efficacy due to the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, but current approaches can cause off target toxicity. Herein, a phthalocyanine‐conjugated mesoporous silicate nanoparticle (PMSN) is designed for amplifying sonodynamic therapy (SDT) to augment oxidative stress and induce robust pyroptosis in tumors. The sub‐10 nm diameter structure and c(RGDyC)‐PEGylated modification enhance tumor targeting and renal clearance. The unique porous architecture of PMSN doubles ROS yield and enhances pyroptotic cell populations in tumors (25.0%) via a cavitation effect. PMSN‐mediated SDT treatment efficiently reduces tumor mass and suppressed residual tumors in treated and distant sites by synergizing with PD‐L1 blockade (85.93% and 77.09%, respectively). Furthermore, loading the chemotherapeutic, doxorubicin, into PMSN intensifies SDT‐pyroptotic effects and increased efficacy. This is the first report of the use of SDT regimens to induce pyroptosis in liver cancer. This noninvasive and effective strategy has potential for clinical translation.
Over 240 Resonances on a Metasurface‐Pixelated Silicon Wafer in an Octave‐Spanning Terahertz Range
Authors: Liu Jiaming , Fang Xu , Lyu Wen , Deng Xiaojiao , Zheng Xiaoping
Published: November 2023

Metasurfaces hold tremendous promise for various innovative sensing applications, thanks to their remarkable ability to manipulate light. A recent significant advancement in this research direction is using quasi‐BIC (bound states in the continuum) metasurfaces for mid‐infrared molecular sensing, which relies on creating a series of nearly uniformly spaced, sharp resonances on a single device. Although many studies have highlighted the potential of adopting this method in the terahertz (THz) regime, experimental demonstration is lacking. In this work, the first experimental demonstration of such frequency comb‐like, quasi‐BIC resonances on a single device is presented in the THz regime. By pixelating a 6‐inch Si wafer with 25 different metasurfaces that possess both high‐order quasi‐BIC modes and a geometric scaling, a set of 241 sharp resonances ranging from 350 to 750 GHz is produced based on numerical simulation. By using a high‐resolution vector network analyzer, 140 peaks that fall into the detection range from 500 to 750 GHz are confirmed experimentally, and their frequencies match well with the simulated results. By experimentally demonstrating frequency comb‐like, quasi‐BIC THz resonances on a single device, this work shows a new path for metasurface‐based sensing in the THz regime.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Cyclization and Rearrangement of 1‐Azido‐2‐(2,2‐Dihalovinyl)arenes and 1‐Azido‐2‐[(2,2‐Dihalovinyl)(Boc)amino]arenes for the Preparation of 2,3‐Dihaloindoles and 2‐Haloquinoxalines
Authors: Abe Teppei , Kobayashi Kazuki , Kikukawa Seiya , Kanai Yuuki , Hata Takeshi
Published: November 2023

Treatment of 1‐azido‐2‐(2,2‐dihalovinyl)arenes with a catalytic amount of Rh2(esp)2 afforded various 2,3‐dihaloindoles in 51–74% yields. This reaction progressed via the intramolecular cyclization of rhodium nitrene generated in situ and the rearrangement of one halogen group. For the 2‐chloro‐2‐iodovinyl group, the iodo group selectively rearranged to yield 2‐chloro‐3‐iodoindoles as single isomers. Moreover, 1‐azido‐2‐[(2,2‐dihalomovinyl)(Boc)amino]arenes were reacted with a catalytic amount of Rh2(oct)4, which produced 2‐haloquinoxaline in 55–92% yields.
Regioselective Organocatalyzed Monochlorination of Arenes with Electrophilic Chlorosulfoniums
Authors: Garay‐Talero Alexander , Acosta‐Guzmán Paola , Gamba‐Sánchez Diego
Published: November 2023

This manuscript presents a regioselective chlorination of arenes, yielding almost exclusively the monochlorinated product. It tolerates free hydroxy groups, 1°, 2° and 3° amines, and carboxylic acids, among other polar and nonpolar functional groups, as well as mono‐ and polysubstituted aromatic rings. Additionally, the utilization of chlorosulfonium salts as the chlorinating agent is demonstrated. The method emerges as an alternative to other processes where organic byproducts must be separated from the reaction mixture. In addition, the main byproducts are gaseous materials such as CO and CO2. This publication introduces the application of sulfoxides, oxalyl chloride, and aqueous hydrogen peroxide as the chlorination mixture.
Lactobacillus Intestinalis Primes Epithelial Cells to Suppress Colitis‐Related Th17 Response by Host‐Microbe Retinoic Acid Biosynthesis
Authors: Wang Qi‐Wen , Jia Ding‐Jia‐Cheng , He Jia‐Min , Sun Yong , Qian Yun , Ge Qi‐Wei , Qi Ya‐Dong , Wang Qing‐Yi , Hu Ying‐Ying , Wang Lan , Fang Yan‐Fei , He Hui‐Qin , Luo Man , Feng Li‐Jun , Si Jian‐Min , Song Zhang‐Fa , Wang Liang‐Jing , Chen Shu‐Jie
Published: November 2023

Gut microbiome is integral to the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis. A novel probiotic Lactobacillus intestinalis (L. intestinalis) exerts a protective effect against dextran sodium sulfate‐induced colitis in mice. Based on flow cytometry, colitis‐associated Th17 cells are the target of L. intestinalis, which is supported by the lack of protective effects of L. intestinalis in T cell‐null Rag1−/− mice or upon anti‐IL‐17‐A antibody‐treated mice. Although L. intestinalis exerts no direct effect on T cell differentiation, it decreases C/EBPA‐driven gut epithelial SAA1 and SAA2 production, which in turn impairs Th17 cell differentiation. Cometabolism of L. intestinalis ALDH and host ALDH1A2 contributed to elevated biosynthesis of retinoic acid (RA), which accounts for the anti‐colitis effect in RAR‐α ‐mediated way. In a cohort of ulcerative colitis patients, it is observed that fecal abundance of L. intestinalis is negatively associated with the C/EBPA‐SAA1/2‐Th17 axis. Finally, L. intestinalis has a synergistic effect with mesalazine in alleviating murine colitis. In conclusion, L. intestinalis and associated metabolites, RA, have potential therapeutic effects for suppressing colonic inflammation by modulating the crosstalk between intestinal epithelia and immunity.
Photonic Physical Reservoir Computing with Tunable Relaxation Time Constant
Authors: Yamazaki Yutaro , Kinoshita Kentaro
Published: November 2023

Recent years have witnessed a rising demand for edge computing, and there is a need for methods to decrease the computational cost while maintaining a high learning performance when processing information at arbitrary edges. Reservoir computing using physical dynamics has attracted significant attention. However, currently, the timescale of the input signals that can be processed by physical reservoirs is limited by the transient characteristics inherent to the selected physical system. This study used an Sn‐doped In2O3/Nb‐doped SrTiO3 junction to fabricate a memristor that could respond to both electrical and optical stimuli. The results show that the timescale of the transient current response of the device could be controlled over several orders of magnitude simply by applying a small voltage. The computational performance of the device as a physical reservoir is evaluated in an image classification task, demonstrating that the learning accuracy could be optimized by tuning the device to exhibit appropriate transient characteristics according to the timescale of the input signals. These results are expected to provide deeper insights into the photoconductive properties of strontium titanate, as well as support the physical implementation of computing systems.
Blood flow ratio in the gastric conduit measured by laser Doppler flowmetry: A predictor of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy
Authors: Ishida Hirotaka , Fukutomi Toshiaki , Taniyama Yusuke , Sato Chiaki , Okamoto Hiroshi , Ozawa Yohei , Onodera Yu , Koseki Ken , Unno Michiaki , Kamei Takashi
Published: November 2023

Background

Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy is a common complication. Laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) can quantitatively evaluate the blood flow in the gastric conduit.

Methods

A total of 326 patients who underwent thoracoscopic/robot‐assisted esophagectomy followed by gastric conduit reconstruction and end‐to‐side anastomosis were enrolled. We divided the gastric conduit into zones I (dominated by the right gastroepiploic vessels), II (dominated by the left gastroepiploic vessels), and III (perfused with short gastric vessels). Before pulling up the gastric conduit to the neck, LDF values were measured at the pylorus, the border between zones I and II (zone I/II), the border between zones II and III (zone II/III), and the gastric conduit tip (tip). The blood flow ratio was calculated as the LDF value divided by the LDF value at the pylorus.

Results

Anastomotic leakage developed in 32 of 326 patients. Leakage was significantly associated with the blood flow ratio at the tip (p < 0.001), but not at zone I/II, zone II/III, and the anastomotic site. The receiver‐operating characteristic curve analysis identified an anastomotic leakage cutoff ratio of 0.41 (at the tip). A multivariate Cox analysis showed that a blood flow ratio <0.41 at the tip was an independent risk factor for anastomotic leakage (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy was significantly associated with the blood flow ratio at the tip of the gastric conduit. Preservation of the blood supply to the tip via the gastric wall might contribute to a decreased incidence of anastomotic leakage.
Sembrando Semillas, sowing seeds: Reflections on Latinx representations in US community psychology's AJCP
Authors: Fernández Jesica Siham , Bernal Ireri , Guzmán Bianca L.
Published: November 2023

Latinx have contributed to the foundation and formation of the United States, and as this demographic increases, overlooking their unique experiences and lived conditions can limit community psychology's potential to better support them in their wellbeing. Thus, in alignment with the call for a virtual special issue highlighting critical themes in the American Journal of Community Psychology (AJCP), we take an exemplar approach to reviewing 15 articles published between 1979 and 2023. We highlight these articles for their unique contributions in laying the foundation or shifting the discourses of Latinx in the United States. We organize each article under one of the following themes: (1) Challenging notions of Latinx as passive victims or deficient; (2) Documenting the misrepresentation and invisibility of Latinx in community psychology; (3) Affirming Latinx as knowledge producers, protagonists, and agents of change; and (4) Centering Latin American epistemologies that foster liberatory praxis for and with Latinx. Via these themes, we illustrate where the discipline has been, and offer reflection for where it can move toward as it relates to Latinx. In doing so, we highlight perspectives grounded in Latinx communities. Our review is not exhaustive; however, it offers our subjective interpretation or curation of the articles we acknowledge as fundamental to the discipline's formation, and our learning and ongoing growth as critical community psychologists of Latin American heritage with affinities to Latinx communities in the United States. We offer this brief review as a semilla (seed) to the possibilities ahead as we remain open to reflection, dialog and learning.
Novel technique for ultrasound‐guided needle tracking: An inexpensive reusable phantom model utilising a closed electrical circuit
Authors: McKinley Hillary J. , Jones Isaak , LaRochelle Madeline , Christensen Erik , Bauman Weeden , Croft Peter
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Purpose:There are a variety of commercially made ultrasound training phantoms available for educational purposes. A new concept in phantoms is presented that utilises a low‐cost method to create a reusable phantom.

Methods

A closed electric circuit was combined with insulating material to create a novel phantom that can be used to practise needle tracking under ultrasound guidance on repeated occasions. A tricolour light‐emitting diode (LED) illuminates when the needle (under ultrasound gudiance) contacts one of three metal objects embedded in the phatom material.

Conclusion

This prototype model provides a simple solution for trianing ultrasound needle guidance is particularly geared towards programmes with a high volume of users. This protoype provides a starting point for a new concept in educational phantom trainers.
Enhancing the production of recombinant human TGF‐β1 through an understanding of TGF‐β1 synthesis, signaling, and endocytosis in CHO cells
Authors: Kim Kyungsoo , Kim Young Sik , Jang Ju Woong , Lee Gyun Min
Published: November 2023

To enhance the production of recombinant human transforming growth factor‐beta1 (rhTGF‐β1) in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, rhTGF‐β1 was first characterized for endocytosis, signaling pathway, and overall maturation process. The mature rhTGF‐β1 used for clinical application was internalized into CHO cells and inhibited the growth of CHO cells in a dose‐dependent manner. However, mature rhTGF‐β1 was mostly produced in the form of latent rhTGF‐β1 in cultures of recombinant CHO (rCHO) cells producing rhTGF‐β1 (CHO‐rhTGF‐β1). The concentration of active mature rhTGF‐β1 in the culture supernatant of CHO‐rhTGF‐β1 cells was not high enough to compromise yield. In addition, a significant amount of unprocessed precursors was produced by CHO‐rhTGF‐β1 cells. Overexpression of PACEsol, a soluble form of furin, in CHO‐rhTGF‐β1 cells was effective for the proteolytic cleavage of unprocessed precursors. The highest mature rhTGF‐β1 concentration (6.4 μg mL−1) was obtained with the PACEsol‐expressing clone, which was approximately 45% higher than that of the parental clone (P < 0.01). Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the intrinsic properties of rhTGF‐β1 with respect to the overall maturation process, signaling pathway, and endocytosis is essential for effectively enhancing the production of mature rhTGF‐β1 in CHO cells.
Floral Visitation, Phytochemical and Biological Activities of Bioproducts from Tetragonisca angustula (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponini): A Review
Authors: Silva Macêdo Nair , de Sousa Silveira Zildene , da Silva Sousa Ângella Eduarda , Menezes Dantas Débora , Bispo Monteiro Amanda Lins , Silva dos Santos Helcio , Bezerra da Cunha Francisco Assis
Published: November 2023

Tetragonisca angustula (Latreille, 1811) is an indigenous neotropical stingless bee, popularly known as “Jataí”, with a wide distribution in the Brazilian territory. T. angustula produces other derivatives such as propolis, geopropolis, fermented (saburá pollen), cerumen and resins, which are important in folk medicine. In this review, the objective was to gather research on the main plant species visited by T. angustula, as well as studies that verified the chemical composition and biological properties of T. angustula bioproducts. The bibliographic review was performed by searching the Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and PubMed databases for publications from 2003 to February 2023. We found 78 studies that analyzed the interactions between T. angustula and floral species, with species from the botanical families Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Malvaceae, Bignoniaceae, Solanaceae, Myrtaceae and Lamiaceae being the most reported as the main food sources for this species. The presence of compounds belonging to the class of flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids and alkaloids has been identified by studying the chemical composition of honey, propolis, geopropolis and fermented pollen (saburá) in 21 studies. The data collected in the literature emphasize that these T. angustula products have remarkable biological properties, especially their antibacterial and antioxidant activities.
Bioequivalence of 240 mg Apalutamide Tablets and Preparation in Aqueous Food Vehicles for Alternative Administration
Authors: Yu Alex , Van Uffel Mieke , Jiao Juhui J. , Rosales Rosamerlinda , Erba Maura , Haddish‐Berhane Nahor
Published: November 2023

A 240‐mg single tablet has been developed with the focus of reducing the pill burden of the apalutamide daily dose of 240 mg (4 × 60‐mg tablets). An open‐label, randomized, single‐dose phase 1 study with a 2‐sequence and 2‐period crossover design in healthy men determined the bioequivalence of a 240‐mg single tablet versus the currently available 4 × 60‐mg tablets (Part 1, N = 74) and assessed effect of a high‐fat meal (Part 2, N = 21) on apalutamide maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and the area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC0‐72 h). The 90% confidence interval of geometric mean ratios for Cmax and AUC0‐72 h fell between 80% and 125% for both Part 1 and Part 2. No new safety concerns with the 240‐mg single tablet were observed. To support the use of different food vehicles as well as nasogastric (NG) tubes for alternative administration, we conducted in vitro compatibility studies to evaluate the purity, dose, and stability of 240‐mg tablets dispersed in applesauce/yogurt/orange juice/green tea as well as in NG tubes (polyurethane/silicone/polyvinyl chloride). The studies confirmed the alternative administrations do not affect the purity, dose‐accuracy, or stability of apalutamide. The apalutamide 240‐mg tablet is bioequivalent to 4 × 60‐mg tablets and compatible with the tested food vehicles and NG tubes.
Does Confucian culture reduce firms' pollution emissions
Authors: Cao Kairui , Jiang Weijie , Jin Laiqun , Zhu Yuanyuan
Published: November 2023

This paper explores the influence of Confucian culture on firms' emissions. We measure Confucian culture during the Ming and Qing dynasties using the density of jinshi in that region and test the causal relationship between Confucian culture and firms' emissions using the Annual Survey of Industrial Firms (ASIF) and China's Environmental Statistics Database (CESD) from 1998 to 2013. Our research reveals that regions with a stronger Confucian cultural influence have a significant reduction in pollution emissions from their firms. Further analysis demonstrates that the government in regions with a strong Confucian cultural influence attaches more importance to environmental protection and enforces stricter environmental regulations on firms. Besides, the people demonstrate heightened environmental awareness, incorporating it into economic development, thus reducing firms' pollution emissions. In addition, Confucian culture can reduce pollution emissions by improving the total factor productivity of firms.
Environmental innovation in healthcare industry: The moderating role of women on board in cost of debt
Authors: Romano Mauro , Netti Antonio , Corvino Antonio , Intenza Marika
Published: November 2023

Over recent years, a growing body of empirical evidence highlights a positive correlation between ecological innovation and firm value creation. Building on natural resource‐based view and upper echelons theory, this study examines the relationship between environmental innovation and the cost of debt, by verifying whether and to what extent there is a moderation effect due to the board gender diversity. Using a sample of 458 European firms belonging to the healthcare industry, we carried out a cross‐sectional analysis, given that the sample is based on just the fiscal year 2020. The empirical evidence shows that environmental innovation decreases the cost of debt, by reducing company's perceived risk. In addition, board gender diversity negatively moderates the foregoing relationship. Therefore, our study suggests that public policy makers might underpin environmental innovation policies and specific features on board of directors, since they exert relevant implications on firm's value creation and investors' decisions.
Simplified three‐phase split‐source inverter for PV system application controlled via model‐predictive control
Authors: Elthokaby Youssuf , Abdelsalam Ibrahim , Abdel‐Rahim Naser , Mohamed Islam
Published: November 2023

In this paper, for standalone and grid‐connected PV systems, a three‐phase simplified split‐source inverter (SSI) is proposed and controlled using a model‐predictive control (MPC). The maximum power point tracking (MPPT) approach used is an incremental conductance method based on a PI controller for both systems. The standalone system is composed of PV modules, a three‐phase SSI, and a bidirectional power DC–DC converter that connects a battery bank and a DC‐side capacitor. The output AC voltages of SSI are controlled using MPC. The bidirectional power DC–DC converter regulates the DC‐link voltage (DCLV). The grid‐connected system consists of PV modules, a three‐phase SSI, and an AC‐side L‐filter. The DC‐link PI controller generates reference currents for the MPC algorithm. The MPC uses these reference currents to adjust and deliver the PV power to the grid while regulating the DCLV. The PI controllers' parameters are selected for both systems using the Harris Hawks optimization method. Both PV systems simulation results show that under various operating conditions, they have succeeded in fixing a DCLV and producing a high‐quality AC output voltage and current at low THD. Experimental results for the three‐phase standalone PV system used to verify the system's performance.
The formation of language teacher identity: A narrative inquiry of an EFL teacher's ER implementation
Authors: Sun Xiaomei , Akbar Farah
Published: November 2023

This narrative inquiry investigates an English as a Foreign Language teacher's storied experience of 30‐year extensive reading (ER) implementation, with the aim of exploring the formation of language teacher identity (LTI) of this individual teacher. Two narrative interviews were conducted, respectively focusing on the holistic story and detailed accounts of some critical incidents and significant others. Two researchers played different roles: one insider, conducting, transcribing, translating, and analysing interviews; one outsider, analysing the data with a relatively neutral perspective. Data analysis adopted an ecological approach and a three‐level framework (societal, interpersonal, and intrapersonal levels). Findings highlight the complex links between discursive features, personal experience, teacher emotions, and power differentials in shaping the dynamic and multi‐faceted nature of LTIs. Meanwhile, the considerable evolution of the teacher's ER implementation validates the importance of teacher training, especially opportunities for teachers to gain experiential knowledge which further contributes to teacher identity development.
Beyond central‐tendency: If we agree discrete vegetation communities do not exist, should we investigate other methods of clustering?
Authors: Tozer Mark G. , Keith David A.
Published: November 2023

Clustering is indispensable in the quest for robust vegetation classification schemes that aim to partition, summarise and communicate patterns. However, clustering solutions are sensitive to methods and data and are therefore unstable, a feature that is usually attributed to noise. Viewed through a central‐tendency lens, noise is defined as the degree of departure from type, which is problematic since vegetation types are abstractions of continua, and so noise can only be quantified relative to the particular solution at hand. Graph theory models the structure of vegetation data based on the interconnectivity of samples. Through a graph‐theoretic lens, the causes of instability can be quantified in absolute terms via the degree of connectivity among objects. We simulated incremental increases in sampling intensity in a dataset over five iterations and assessed classification stability across successive solutions derived using algorithms implementing, respectively, models of central‐tendency and interconnectivity. We used logistic regression to model the likelihood of a sample changing groups between iterations as a function of distance to the centroid and degree of interconnectivity. Our results show that the degree to which samples are interconnected is a more powerful predictor of instability than the degree to which they deviate from their nearest centroid. The removal of weakly interconnected samples resulted in more stable classifications, although solutions with many clusters were apparently inherently less stable than those with few clusters, and improvements in stability flowing from the removal of outliers declined as the number of clusters increased. Our results reinforce the fact that clusters abstracted from continuous data are inherently unstable and that the quest for stable, fine‐scale classifications from large regional datasets is illusory. Nevertheless, our results show that using models better suited to the analysis of continuous data may yield more stable classifications of the available data.
Dual intelligent reflecting surfaces aided decode‐and‐forward relaying with wireless power transfer
Authors: Zhang Luyu , Zhai Chao , Zheng Lina , Si Wen
Published: November 2023

We consider an energy harvesting (EH)‐based cooperative relaying system, where the relay operates with EH and forwards source data to the destination according to the decode‐and‐forward protocol. Two intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRSs) are deployed to assist the EH of the first‐hop as well as the data transmissions of both hops. Along with the source transmitting data to the relay at the first‐hop, the first IRS reflects the incident signal to the relay, who can harvest energy and decode information from the received signal using power‐splitting or time‐switching method. After successfully decoding the source data, the relay will forward data to the destination by using the harvested energy with assistance from the second IRS. We analyze and derive the success probability, the throughput, and the ergodic capacity of the proposed scheme. Numerical results show that our proposed dual‐IRS‐aided relaying scheme can achieve much better performance than relay‐only and one‐IRS‐aided relaying schemes.
Preserving nutrient content in red cabbage juice powder via foam‐mat hybrid microwave drying: Application in fortified functional pancakes
Authors: Ozcelik Muhammed Mustafa , Aydin Sedef , Aydin Ebru , Ozkan Gulcan
Published: November 2023

Red cabbage, a highly nutritious cool‐season cruciferous vegetable, is rich in anthocyanins; however, the instability of anthocyanins during processing and storage poses challenges. This study aimed to optimize the foam‐mat drying process of red cabbage juice (RCJ) with a high anthocyanin content using a hybrid microwave hot air‐drying system (MW‐HAD) as a dehydration method compared to conventional techniques (HAD) using response surface methodology (RSM). Additionally, the produced red cabbage juice powder (RCJP) was used to enrich the pancake formulation. The developed model exhibited a high degree of reliability with optimal conditions and was determined for microwave power, temperature, foaming agent carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and egg white protein (EWP) as 360 W, 60°C, 0.3%, and 1.2%, respectively. Moisture content (%) was decreased from 93.47 to 8.62 at optimum process conditions. In comparison to the control (60°C), foam mat drying with the MW‐HAD hybrid system reduced the drying time (DT) by more than 90.9% due to the higher drying rate, while many physicochemical properties, especially total anthocyanin content (TAC), were better preserved. Utilization of RCJP in the production of anthocyanin‐rich functional pancakes resulted in enhanced nutritional qualities compared to control pancakes with increased protein (35.07%), total phenolic (75.8%), dietary fiber (82.9%), and anthocyanin content (100%). In conclusion, MW‐HAD demonstrates significant potential as a promising drying method to reduce the DT and preserve the physicochemical properties of RCJP. Furthermore, the application of the optimized RCJP in anthocyanin‐rich functional pancakes highlights improved nutritional qualities, making a substantial contribution to the advancement of functional foods.
Efficacy of a dietary supplement derived from five edible plants on telomere length in Thai adults: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Praengam Kemika , Tuntipopipat Siriporn , Muangnoi Chawanphat , Jangwangkorn Chatdao , Piamkulvanich Olan
Published: November 2023

Mylife/Mylife100® is a dietary supplement consisting of black sesame seed, guava fruit, mangosteen aril, pennywort leaves, and soy protein. These edible plants contain multiple high‐potential bioactive compounds exerting various vital biological functions including antioxidants which contribute to delaying the rate of telomere shortening. Telomere length is associated with cellular aging and age‐related diseases. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of Mylife/Mylife100® on telomere length through a randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial. The trial assessed the alteration of leukocyte telomere length after 32 adults aged 50–65 years received either Mylife/Mylife100® or placebo (five capsules/day) for 8‐week supplementation. The results demonstrated a significant increase in mean telomere length from baseline (6313 bp) to the 8‐week supplementation period (6655 bp; p < 0.05) in the group receiving the product, whereas no significant change was observed in the placebo group. Additionally, the product group exhibited a significant improvement in plasma total antioxidant capacity levels compared to the placebo group (mean change, +35 vs −38; p = 0.006). This study also showed a significant correlation between telomere length and % CD4 + T cells (r = +0.325; p = 0.00003), % CD8 + T cells (r = +0.156; p = 0.048), and visceral fat (r = − 0.349; p = 0.000006). The findings suggest that consuming this dietary supplement (Mylife/Mylife100®) for 8 weeks has a positive effect on cellular aging by lengthening telomeres possible through their antioxidant capacities. Oxidative stress and cellular aging are underlying predisease mechanisms that might be alleviated by supplementing with this product.
Evaluation of common protein biomarkers involved in the pathogenesis of respiratory diseases with proteomic methods: A systematic review
Authors: Rezaeeyan Hadi , Arabfard Masoud , Rasouli Hamid R. , Shahriary Alireza , Gh B. Fatemeh Nobakht M.
Published: November 2023

Aim

Respiratory disease (RD) is one of the most common diseases characterized by lung dysfunction. Many diagnostic mechanisms have been used to identify the pathogenic agents of responsible for RD. Among these, proteomics emerges as a valuable diagnostic method for pinpointing the specific proteins involved in RD pathogenesis. Therefore, in this study, for the first time, we examined the protein markers involved in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), asthma, bronchiolitis obliterans (BO), and chemical warfare victims exposed to mustard gas, using the proteomics method as a systematic study.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was performed up to September 2023 on several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Cochrane. In total, selected 4246 articles were for evaluation according to the criteria. Finally, 119 studies were selected for this systematic review.

Results

A total of 13,806 proteins were identified, 6471 in COPD, 1603 in Asthma, 5638 in IPF, three in BO, and 91 in mustard gas exposed victims. Alterations in the expression of these proteins were observed in the respective diseases. After evaluation, the results showed that 31 proteins were found to be shared among all five diseases.

Conclusion

Although these 31 proteins regulate different factors and molecular pathways in all five diseases, they ultimately lead to the regulation of inflammatory pathways. In other words, the expression of some proteins in COPD and mustard‐exposed patients increases inflammatory reactions, while in IPF, they cause lung fibrosis. Asthma, causes allergic reactions due to T‐cell differentiation toward Th2.
Identification of a 17 kDa protein that is a potentially novel antigen of lettuce‐associated respiratory allergy in farmers
Authors: Yoshioka Junya , Nagano Tatsuya , Sekiya Reina , Yano Erika , Hatano Naoya , Katsurada Naoko , Yamamoto Masatsugu , Tachihara Motoko , Uno Yuichi , Moriyama Tatsuya , Nishimura Yoshihiro , Kobayashi Kazuyuki
Published: November 2023

Background

We have identified and reported a novel antigen, nonprotein‐specific secreted EP1‐like glycoprotein (51 kDa), for lettuce‐related respiratory allergy.

Objective

We aimed to identify a novel antigen for lettuce‐related respiratory allergy that is different from epidermis‐specific secreted EP1‐like glycoprotein.

Methods

Immunoblotting was performed using an immunoglobulin E‐specific antibody. The antigen‐antibody reaction was confirmed by means of enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assaying. LC‒MS/MS analysis was carried out to detect a novel protein found in sera from 3 of 13 patients with lettuce‐related respiratory allergy. Finally, we purified a novel protein from Escherichia coli.

Results

Immunoblotting assays showed common bands of 17 kDa in the sera of 3 of 13 patients. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay confirmed that the patient sera reacted with lettuce latex juice. A 17 kDa protein band that showed antigenic reactivity in 3 of 13 patient sera was identified as a kirola‐like protein by LC‒MS/MS. In addition, although we purified this protein, we failed to show the inhibitory effect.

Conclusion

A 17 kDa protein that is a potentially novel antigen of lettuce‐associated respiratory allergy was identified. In further studies, we will focus on purifying this novel protein to diagnose lettuce allergy.
Vesical ectopic pregnancy due to vesicouterine fistula: A case report with literature review
Authors: Abdalla Geyessar M. , Abdelfadeel Motwalli A. , Alfaraga Mohamed A. , Elshambaty Yasir B. , Masoud Muhammad S. , Saeed Altahir A. , Ahmed Khabab A. H. M. , Abdalla Mohammed A. , Abdelmoneim Abdelrahman H. , Fadl Hiba A. O.
Published: November 2023

This case report describes the presentation, diagnosis, and surgical management of a rare vesical ectopic pregnancy in a 36‐year‐old woman with a history of multiple cesarean sections. The patient presented with symptoms of suprapubic pain, fever, and amenorrhea. An initial ultrasound indicated retained products of conception, leading to a preliminary diagnosis of septic miscarriage. However, subsequent rescanning revealed an empty uterus and a non‐viable fetus within the bladder, connected to the uterine cavity. Cystoscopy confirmed the presence of fetal parts inside the bladder. Finally, a laparotomy was performed and the fetus was removed from the bladder with repair of the underlying uterovesical fistula. An uneventful postoperative period ensued. The literature review revealed only four previously reported cases with similar overall presentations. This case highlights the importance of considering vesical ectopic pregnancies in patients with a history of cesarean sections and unusual symptoms, as prompt surgical intervention is crucial for ensuring successful management of the condition.
Using underutilized residues of coffee to obtain valuable dietary and antioxidant bioactive compounds
Authors: Carréra Jéfyne Campos , de Souza Ray Rodrigues , Batista Ana Claudia Gama , Campolina Gabriela Aguiar , da Silva Júnior Francides Gomes , Gavilanes Manuel Losada , Guimarães Rubens José , das Graças Cardoso Maria , Mori Fábio Akira
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Coffee cultivation and agroindustry generate residues that are rich in several metabolites. These compounds, such as phenolic compounds and alkaloids, are known for their antioxidant activity and are usually consumed as nutraceuticals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of chemical and antioxidant components of low‐pruned coffee stems under different fertilizer regimes. Extractives and lignin composition, histochemical, chromatographic, and antioxidant analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Multiple compounds were found to accumulate in the stems of coffee trees. Furthermore, the presence of phenolic compounds such as chlorogenic acid, vanillin, resveratrol, and the alkaloids caffeine and trigonelline varied depending on the type of fertilization. In all samples examined, optimal performance was observed at the highest tested concentration (500 μg mL−1). All samples analyzed presented a great performance at the highest concentration tested (500 μg mL−1), with the dose 70% and the dose 100%, which is the recommended for the culture, showing the highest values for most of the concentrations and the best half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) when compared with the other samples tested.

CONCLUSION

As shown in the results, the reuse of stem residues as antioxidant material, with the potential to be profitable, and has the added benefit of providing a sustainable destination for material that until now has been underutilized. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
A duality for prescribed mean curvature graphs in Riemannian and Lorentzian Killing submersions
Authors: Del Prete Andrea , Lee Hojoo , Manzano José Miguel
Published: November 2023

We develop a conformal duality for space‐like graphs in Riemannian and Lorentzian three‐manifolds that admit a Riemannian submersion over a Riemannian surface whose fibers are the integral curves of a Killing vector field, which is time‐like in the Lorentzian case. The duality swaps mean curvature and bundle curvature and sends the length of the Killing vector field to its reciprocal while keeping invariant the base surface. We obtain two consequences of this result. On the one hand, we find entire graphs in Lorentz–Minkowski space with prescribed mean curvature a bounded function with bounded gradient. On the other hand, we obtain conditions for the existence and nonexistence of entire graphs which are related to a notion of the critical mean curvature.