bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient‐reported outcomes with cemiplimab monotherapy for first‐line treatment of advanced non–small cell lung cancer with PD‐L1 of ≥50%: The EMPOWER‐Lung 1 study
Authors: Gümüş Mahmut , Chen Chieh‐I , Ivanescu Cristina , Kilickap Saadettin , Bondarenko Igor , Özgüroğlu Mustafa , Gogishvili Miranda , Turk Haci M. , Cicin Irfan , Harnett James , Mastey Vera , Naumann Ulrike , Reaney Matthew , Konidaris Gerasimos , Sasane Medha , Brady Keri J. S. , Li Siyu , Gullo Giuseppe , Rietschel Petra , Sezer Ahmet
Published: October 2022

Background

In the EMPOWER‐Lung 1 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03088540), cemiplimab conferred longer survival than platinum‐doublet chemotherapy for advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) ≥50%. Patient‐reported outcomes were evaluated among trial participants.

Methods

Adults with NSCLC and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 to 1 were randomly assigned cemiplimab 350 mg every 3 weeks or platinum‐doublet chemotherapy. At baseline and day 1 of each treatment cycle, patients were administered the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life‐Core 30 (QLQ‐C30) and Lung Cancer Module (QLQ‐LC13) questionnaires. Mixed‐model repeated measures analysis estimated overall change from baseline for PD‐L1 ≥50% and intention‐to‐treat populations. Kaplan–Meier analysis estimated time to definitive deterioration.

Results

In PD‐L1 ≥50% patients (cemiplimab, n = 283; chemotherapy, n = 280), baseline QLQ‐C30 and QLQ‐LC13 scores showed moderate‐to‐high functioning and low symptom burden. Change from baseline favored cemiplimab on global health status/quality of life (GHS/QOL), functioning, and most symptom scales. Risk of definitive deterioration across functioning scales was reduced versus chemotherapy; hazard ratios were 0.48 (95% CI, 0.32‐0.71) to 0.63 (95% CI, 0.41‐0.96). Cemiplimab showed lower risk of definitive deterioration for disease‐related (dyspnea, cough, pain in chest, pain in other body parts, fatigue) and treatment‐related symptoms (peripheral neuropathy, alopecia, nausea/vomiting, appetite loss, constipation, diarrhea) (nominal p < .05). Results were similar in the intention‐to‐treat population.

Conclusions

Results support cemiplimab for first‐line therapy of advanced NSCLC from the patient's perspective. Improved survival is accompanied by improvements versus platinum‐doublet chemotherapy in GHS/QOL and functioning and reduction in symptom burden.
A systematic literature review on sensitive data protection in blockchain applications
Authors: Khanum Saba , Mustafa Khurram
Published: October 2022

Since inception, blockchain has earned significant attention due to its exclusive characteristics and advantages. It has changed the way the transactions are conducted by eradicating the role of third parties and promises to ensure trust among the participants. This technology is emerging as a potential solution to several issues but not without certain security vulnerabilities. In particular, protection of sensitive data is a more critical issue in the absence of a third party. This paper is aimed to report and share the state of the art of sensitive data protection in blockchain applications. The covered aspects include identification of sensitive data, existing techniques to protect sensitive data and to know how real time data compromised by security risks, attacks, threats and vulnerabilities concerning blockchain applications. This paper analysis the tools and techniques used in the past for protecting sensitive data and categorized them. On the basis of research and intuitive findings, methods and techniques are elaborated which can contribute in future in the designing a framework for protection of sensitive data in blockchain applications.
Removal of noise on mammogram breast images using filtering methods
Authors: Mudrakola Swapna , Hegde Nagaratna
Published: October 2022

Detecting Breast Cancer (BC) at an early stage can reduce the rate of mortality. A mammogram is a preliminary examination of breast cancer with an optimistic and accurate method, for the same test will be used to know the behavior of the tumor in all stages of cancer. Unpolished Images need to process for a clear image to analyze, and enhanced images can use to view the tissue, muscle, and tumor. Image processing methods are not only used to remove the noisy pixels but also help to extract the Region of Interest (RoI) from the image. The size and structure of the tumor will be extracted using statistical analysis. This study was experimented on mammogram images by analyzing the types of noise on the image and filtering methods applied for a specific class of noise data. The different filtering approaches like Adaptive, Gaussian, Threshold, Mean, Mean‐Median, Bilateral, Wiener, and Tri‐State Filters were used. Mammogram images are grayscale images. The objective of this research experiment is noise data will reduce the detection factors of the tumor with True−Ve and False+Ve results. Fault results will impact the accuracy to identify the RoI. Image Preprocessing will help to improve the quality of the images and help in the treatment plan and expert advice in the decision of the disease stage. Results: The Dataset used images from CBIS‐DDSM (The Curated Breast Imaging Subset of DDSM‐[Digital Database for Screening Mammography]). The obtained Peak‐signal‐to‐Noise Ratio (PSNR) achieved is 80% minimum.
The 4R QTLs pollen fertility restoration in triticale with CMS Triticum timopheevii
Authors: Niedziela Agnieszka , Wasiak Marzena , Wojciechowska Marzena , Orłowska Renata , Dynkowska Wioletta Monika , Bany Sławomir , Bednarek Piotr Tomasz
Published: October 2022

The Triticum timopheevii Zhuk. (Tt) cytoplasm is the most exploited cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) type used in triticale in commercial seed production of hybrid varieties. The present study established a recombinant inbred line (RIL) mapping population to identify genetic loci controlling fertility restoration in triticale with CMS Tt. The trait was evaluated via phenotyping the BC1F1 materials originating from a backcross of maternal line MS 112(15)‐2‐1 (on CMS Tt) and RILs. A genetic map spanning 2293 cM over 21 linkage groups was constructed using 1,170 single nucleotide polymorphisms and silico diversity array technology (DArT) markers generated through DArTseq genotyping. Two quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling fertility restoration were localized at the 4RL chromosome. They were stable during two vegetative seasons and, depending on the year, explained 17.8 to 37.5 (QRft‐4R.1) and 17.8 to 27.1% (QRft‐4R.2) of phenotypic variance. Bioinformatic analysis was performed to predict genes potentially responsible for the trait. Four markers linked to the trait were successfully converted into a polymerase chain reaction‐based assay to select the pollen fertility QTLs easily. The exact position of QTLs detected previously in the rye and here in the triticale suggests that the same loci might control the trait.
Novel QTL associated with Rhizoctonia solani Kühn resistance identified in two table beet × sugar beet F2:3 populations using a new table beet reference genome
Authors: Wigg Katharina S. , Brainard Scott H. , Metz Nick , Dorn Kevin M. , Goldman Irwin L.
Published: October 2022

The necrotrophic fungus Rhizoctonia solani Kühn is a major concern for table beet (Beta vulgaris L. ssp. vulgaris) producers across the United States causing upward of 75% losses in severe instances. Thus far, there have been minimal efforts to incorporate host resistance to R. solani in table beet germplasm. To investigate the genetic control of R. solani resistance in table beet, we developed two mapping populations. Parents of the two populations were a Rhizoctonia‐susceptible table beet inbred W357A and a resistant sugar beet germplasm FC709‐2 (sugar beet resistance population, SBRP) and a Rhizoctonia‐resistant table beet inbred W364B and a susceptible sugar beet inbred FC901/C817 (table beet resistance population, TBRP). In Spring 2020, F2:3 families were evaluated for response to artificial inoculation with R. solani AG 2‐2 IIIB isolate R1 in replicated greenhouse experiments. This work also represents the first use of the W357B table beet reference genome, utilized here to align genotyping‐by‐sequencing reads to identify polymorphic markers. Using interval linkage mapping, we identified one quantitative trait locus (QTL) in each of the two populations, each accounting for 30% of the phenotypic variation. The QTL in both the SBRP and TBRP were found on chromosome 2 and contained several putative resistance genes in annotations of the Beta vulgaris and Arabidopsis thaliana genomes. This is the first report of a QTL on chromosome 2 for resistance to R. solani in B. vulgaris ssp. vulgaris and the first identification of QTL for disease resistance in table beet. The newly developed table beet reference genome and markers identified in this study may be of value for marker‐assisted selection in breeding for resistance to R. solani in both sugar beet and table beet breeding programs.
Non‐financial disclosure regulation and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance: The case of EU and US firms
Authors: Cicchiello Antonella Francesca , Marrazza Ferdinando , Perdichizzi Salvatore
Published: October 2022

The aim of this article is to analyse the effect of non‐financial reporting regulation on firms' Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance, commitment and effectiveness. Specifically, we explore the implications of the European Non‐Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD) mandating disclosure on non‐financial and diversity information by certain large companies. To identify the effect of the EU disclosure regulation on firms' ESG scores, we performed a differences‐in‐differences estimation using a sample of EU firms as the treated group and a sample of US firms as the control group in the period 2015–2020. Overall, our findings suggest that regulatory efforts to increase the transparency of the social and environmental impacts of firms' activities on society are effective at improving disclosure commitment and effectiveness. Hence, regulation supports the adoption of ESG strategies to the benefit of the whole society. The study provides a fresh comparison between regulating or not the ESG information market, drawing suggestions for future policy.
Diagnostic utility of ThinPrep Imaging System® for detecting atypical glandular cells in cervical smear samples
Authors: Akca Yasemin , Erkilic Suna
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The ThinPrep Imaging System® (TIS) is an automated system that has now been used for over 20 years in the primary screening of ThinPrep liquid‐based cervical samples. Although there are a lot of publications about the diagnostic utility of this method in squamous cell lesions, which has advantages such as time‐saving and standardization, there are only a few publications on this issue in glandular cell lesions in the literature. We aimed in this study to investigate the diagnostic utility of the system in the detection of premalignant and malignant glandular lesions in cervical smears.

Material and Method

Our study was conducted retrospectively, and a total of 126 cervical smear samples between 2010 and 2022 that have histological confirmation of endometrial adenocarcinoma (EAC), endocervical adenocarcinoma (ECAC), or adenocarcinoma in situ (AİS), were included. These samples were re‐evaluated by manual and TIS by two experienced pathologists, and the results were compared in terms of sensitivity.

Results

We found out that 70 of the 126 smear samples have atypical glandular cells. We detect 48 cases (48/70) (sensitivity 68.5%) in manual examination, however TIS successfully determined 66 cases (66/70) (sensitivity 94.3%). In 4 cases (5.7%) TIS could not detect the atypical cells within the 22 areas.

Conclusion

TIS is quite an effective method with a high sensitivity for detecting atypical glandular cells in cervical smears, like detecting squamous cell anomalies. Imposing this system in our laboratory and using them appropriately, save us time and help to ensure standardization. Additionally, it may be a good way to adopt artificial intelligence and digital pathology in today's world.
Novel roles for RNA binding proteins squid, hephaesteus, and Hrb27C in Drosophila oogenesis
Authors: Finger Danielle S. , Williams Anna E. , Holt Vivian V. , Ables Elizabeth T.
Published: October 2022

Background

Reproductive capacity in many organisms is maintained by germline stem cells (GSCs). A complex regulatory network influences stem cell fate, including intrinsic factors, local signals, and hormonal and nutritional cues. Posttranscriptional regulatory mechanisms ensure proper cell fate transitions, promoting germ cell differentiation to oocytes. As essential RNA binding proteins with constitutive functions in RNA metabolism, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) have been implicated in GSC function and axis specification during oocyte development. HnRNPs support biogenesis, localization, maturation, and translation of nascent transcripts. Whether and individual hnRNPs specifically regulate GSC function has yet to be explored.

Results

We demonstrate that hnRNPs are expressed in distinct patterns in the Drosophila germarium. We show that three hnRNPs, squid, hephaestus, and Hrb27C are cell‐autonomously required in GSCs for their maintenance. Although these hnRNPs do not impact adhesion of GSCs to adjacent cap cells, squid and hephaestus (but not Hrb27C) are necessary for proper bone morphogenetic protein signaling in GSCs. Moreover, Hrb27C promotes proper GSC proliferation, whereas hephaestus promotes cyst division.

Conclusions

We find that hnRNPs are independently and intrinsically required in GSCs for their maintenance in adults. Our results support the model that hnRNPs play unique roles in stem cells essential for their self‐renewal and proliferation.
Mapping stakeholders and identifying institutional challenges and opportunities for waste management in towns of Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: De Indranil , Patel Ila
Published: October 2022

The extensive research on waste management has primarily remained confined to metro cities and focused on economic and environmental issues. The present study explores waste management in smaller urban areas from an institutional standpoint, mapping formal and informal players onto a two‐dimensional framework: institutional type and institutional strength. The analysis is based on data accumulated through in‐depth interviews and focus group discussions in three towns of India. Despite the absence of formal acknowledgment, it establishes a continuum between formal and informal actors whose efforts to collect waste and provide public goods and services are mutually supportive. Although the informal sector is ranked lower, there is little variation in institutional strength between the formal and informal sectors. A formal‐informal hierarchy hinders informal waste collectors from moving up the value chain. The paper argues against separating the formal and informal actors in urban policy and planning. A waste management system that is formally integrated is required to extract greater economic value from waste and to strengthen the informal‐formal continuum. This should enhance both the wages and working conditions of waste workers.
Does a pandemic context attenuate people's negative perception and meta‐perception of solitude?
Authors: Ren Dongning , Stavrova Olga
Published: October 2022

Solitude—the state of being alone without social interactions—is a common experience in everyday life. Despite that spending time alone can be enjoyable and functional, solitude is often stigmatised: People who engage in solitary activities are perceived negatively (negative perceptions of solitude) and anticipate a negative judgement from others (negative meta‐perceptions of solitude). Using the COVID‐19 pandemic as a backdrop, we examined whether a pandemic context, in which solitary behaviours were easily attributable to external reasons, would reduce people's negative perceptions and meta‐perceptions of solitude. Across three preregistered experiments (total N = 767) conducted during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic, we found that the presence (vs. absence) of a pandemic context attenuated both the negative meta‐perceptions and the negative perceptions of solitude. Yet, people believed that the pandemic context produced a stronger shift away from the stigmatisation of solitude than it actually did. These findings revealed the limits of contextual cues in mitigating the negative perceptions of being alone—even when these cues were explicit and readily available. The current research sheds light on the potential challenges of destigmatising solitude.
A radiological complete response to pembrolizumab in a patient with metastatic upper urinary tract urothelial cancer and Lynch syndrome
Authors: Oki Ryosuke , Urasaki Tetsuya , Ueki Arisa , Inamura Kentaro , Komai Yoshinobu , Takahashi Shunji , Yonese Junji , Yuasa Takeshi
Published: October 2022

Introduction

In Lynch syndrome, urothelial cancer is the third most common cancer, following colorectal and endometrial cancers. Little is known, however, about the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of metastatic urothelial cancer in Lynch syndrome.

Case presentation

A 49‐year‐old patient with metastatic urothelial cancer underwent pembrolizumab therapy after platinum‐containing chemotherapy. The efficacy of the pembrolizumab therapy was good. Her lung and bone metastatic lesions disappeared in imaging studies and her back pain decreased dramatically. Pathogenic mutations of MSH2 and BRCA2 were found in the DNA extracted from her tumor, and subsequent genetic analysis confirmed the germline pathogenic variant of MSH2. As such, this case was genetically diagnosed as Lynch syndrome.

Conclusion

We report metastatic urothelial cancer in a patient with Lynch syndrome who demonstrated a radiological complete response to pembrolizumab therapy. Accurate genetic diagnosis can provide useful information to both the patient and their relatives.
Specific labeling and identification of bacteria based on concentration‐dependent carbon dot staining combined with hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Lin Sifan , Ke Ze , Lu Mingwei , Zhou Yanzhong , Tang Wenrui , Zhu Siqi , Zhang Yongqiang , Li Zhen , Yin Hao , Chen Zhenqiang
Published: October 2022

Concentration‐dependent carbon dot (CD) fluorescence was developed and utilized alongside hyperspectral microscopy as a specific labeling and identification technique for bacteria. Staining revealed that the CD concentration within cells depended on the characteristic intracellular environment of the species. Therefore, based on the concentration dependence of the CD fluorescence, different bacterial species were specifically labeled. Hyperspectral microscopy captured subtle fluorescence variations to identify bacteria. Method validation using Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis succeeded with an identification accuracy of 99%. As a simple, rapid method for labeling and identifying bacterial species in mixtures, this technique has excellent potential for bacterial community studies.
RETRACTED: Effect of Geobacter metallireducens nanowire on electron transfer efficiency in microbial fuel cell
Authors: Liu Shunliang , Feng Yali , Li Haoran
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

To understand the effect of electron shuttle compounds on the electron transfer behavior of MFC and the formation process of microbially fabricated nanowires. In this paper, 2,6‐anthraquinone desulfonation (AQDS) and Fe(OH)3 were used as electron mediator and electron acceptor, respectively, to study the effect of electron mediator on the formation of bio‐nanowires during the growth of Geobacter metallireducens in the double chamber MFC reactor (MFC), and the effects of electron transfer efficiency and electrical current characteristic.

RESULTS

The results show that the culture process of the Geobacter metallireducens with Fe(OH)3 as an electron acceptor, the reduction product Fe(II) concentration in solution without AQDS was higher than that with AQDS after 10 days due to the formation of microbial nanowires. In comparison, the Pili protein content of the system without AQDS reached 336 ug/mL, which was higher than the AQDS system. Nanowires increased the transfer efficiency between biofilm and electrodes, which increased the maximum output voltage of MFC was 442 mV.

CONCLUSION

At the same time, it was found by electrochemical measurements that the nanowire biofilm electrode had a huge peak of the cyclic voltammetry curve, a small activation resistance, and a strong current response signal, indicating that the nanowires enhanced the electrochemical activity of the electrode. In addition, an electron transfer medium (AQDS) inhibited the expression of aromatic amino acids, tryptophan, and mtrC. Moreover, it destroyed the overlapping π‐π orbits of the aromatic parts, resulting in reduced and thinner nanowires and then decreasing the conductivity of synthetic organic materials like metals. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Impact of empagliflozin on left atrial mechanical and conduction functions in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Aslan Muzaffer , Oksen Dogac , Kaynak Cagdas , Ozudogru Osman
Published: October 2022

Objective

Empagliflozin, an oral anti‐diabetic drug that inhibits the sodium‐dependent glucose co‐transporter 2 (SGLT2), has pleiotropic effects on the myocardium. The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of empagliflozin on atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) and the left atrial (LA) mechanical functions in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

Method

In total 62 patients (40.3% female, mean age 50.5 ± 8.6 years old) with type 2 DM were enrolled to the study. Participants were used a SGLT2 inhibitor (empagliflozin 10–25 mg/daily) for 6 months. Patients were examined initially and after 6 months with echocardiography. LA volume was recorded, atrial conduction times were measured using tissue Doppler imaging (TDI).

Results

No significant change was observed in LA volumes (maximal, minimal, and presystolic), total emptying and passive emptying volume at the end of 6 months; however, there was a significant decrease in active emptying volume (8.3 ± 2.9 ml/m2 vs. 7.9 ± 2.9 ml/m2, p = 0.04). The posteroanterior lateral, septal, and tricuspid conduction times significantly decreased after the empagliflozin treatment. The decrease in right inter‐AEMD was statistically significant (13.25 ± 10.21 ms vs. 10.85 ± 9.14 ms, p = 0.011). The changes in inter‐AEMD were found to be correlated with the changes in LA active emptying volume (r = 0.408).

Conclusion

Empagliflozin may enhance the structure and electrical conductions of the atrium and may prevent DM patients from DM‐2‐related functional disorder and arrhythmia.
Beyond the individual‐level conceptualization of dispositional resistance to change: Multilevel effects on the response to organizational change
Authors: Sverdlik Noga , Oreg Shaul
Published: October 2022

We know much about the factors that determine employees' responses to organizational change. Among these, key factors are those that have to do with employees' personal dispositions and those that have to do with the organizational context. In the present study, we focus on dispositional resistance to change and demonstrate how it can be used at the collective level as a means of characterizing organizations rather than individuals. Specifically, we use it to capture organizations' collective orientation toward change and demonstrate its effects above and beyond the effects of individuals' dispositional resistance. Using data from 84 principals and 395 teachers, we demonstrate the complementary roles of employees', principals', and organizations' dispositional resistance to change in predicting employees' attitudes toward the introduction of changes in the organization. We discuss the implications of our findings for understanding responses to organizational change and more broadly for the notion of translating dispositional variables to the organizational level.
Interactive effect of lithium on concentration of alkali cations in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) under saline conditions
Authors: Behr Jan Helge , Zörb Christian
Published: October 2022

Background and aims

Increasing demand for lithium (Li+) for portable energy storage is leading to a global risk of Li+ pollution from the manufacture, use, and disposal of Li+‐containing products. Although Li+, a reactive alkali metal, has no essential function in plants, they readily take it up and accumulate it in large amounts in their tissues. The underlying mechanisms for this Li+ uptake and accumulation are, however, not well described. Our aim has been to investigate the effects of other alkali metals with similar physicochemical properties on the uptake, accumulation, and toxicity of Li+ at low and high osmolarity.

Methods

To determine the way in which Li+ affects the accumulation of other cations under saline conditions, sugar beet plants were grown in hydroponic culture with equimolar amounts of Li+, potassium (K+), and sodium (Na+) at low and high concentrations in various combinations.

Results

Sugar beet plants tolerated high Li+ concentrations in the leaf and petiole. Low Li+ concentrations had no impact on plant growth but induced stomata closure. The presence of other monovalent cations at equimolar concentrations did not affect Li+ accumulation, but Li+ application altered the ratio of monovalent and divalent cations in leaves. Plants treated with high Li+ in combination with Na+ or K+ showed reduced plant growth and leaf necrosis, indicating the severe stress caused by Li+ toxicity.

Conclusion

The presence of cations with similar physicochemical properties to those of Li+ cannot mitigate its toxicity.
Structure and physicochemical properties of low digestible Euryale ferox Salisb. seed starch
Authors: Wang Qian , Liu Licheng , Huang Zhiheng , Bao Ke , Jing Zonghui , Wu Qinan
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

Euryale ferox Salisb. is widely grown in China and Southeast Asia as a grain crop and medicinal plant. The composition, morphology, structure, physicochemical properties, thermal properties, and in vitro digestibility of North Euryale ferox seeds starch (NEFS), hybrid Euryale ferox seeds starch (HEFS), and South Euryale ferox seeds starch (SEFS) were studied.

RESULT

Of the varieties that were studied, the amylose content of NEFS (23.03%) was the highest. Starch granules of each variety were smooth, sharp, small, and had an average diameter of 2 μm. All three varieties were A‐type crystals with crystallinity ranging from 26.42% to 28.17%. The degree of double helix and the short‐range order ranged from 1.9006 to 2.5324 and 1.4294 to 1.6006, respectively. The high proportion of C1 region in NEFS (17.74%) and HEFS (17.66%) were found. Thermodynamic properties in North Euryale ferox seeds included the highest onset temperature (To) (71.43 °C), peak temperature (Tp) (76.60 °C), conclusion temperature (Tc) (82.77 °C), enthalpy of gelatinization (ΔH) (12.64 J g−1), and peak viscosity (1514 mPa·s). All three varieties maintained a low level of in vitro digestibility, with the highest resistant starch (RS) content (29.57%), the lowest rapidly digestible starch (RDS) content (27.07%), and the slowest hydrolysis kinetic constant (0.0303) in NEFS.

CONCLUSION

The results revealed that the low digestibility of NEFS was attributable to compact granules, high crystallinity, high degree of order, and strong thermal stability. These digestive, physicochemical, and thermodynamic properties provide information for the future application of Euryale ferox seed starch in the food industry. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Unraveling the relationship between conditions of ultrasonic‐assisted extraction of chia mucilage and viscosity
Authors: Saporittis Karen , Marasco Julieta , Morales Rocío , Martinez María J , Pilosof Ana MR
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

The application of chia mucilage still remains restricted due to the difficulty in achieving high extraction yields. The effect of ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE) conditions (temperature, seed:water ratio and time) on the rheological properties of chia mucilage extracts and the relation to the proportion of translucent phase (TP) and opaque phase (OP) of the mucilage in the extract were evaluated.

RESULTS

UAE allowed the efficient extraction of chia mucilage from chia seeds. The desired overall optimal combination to maximize both yield and apparent viscosity was achieved at a seed:water ratio 1:10, a temperature of 25.3 °C and 53.7 min extraction time; the optimal conditions to obtain the maximum yield and minimum apparent viscosity were a seed:water ratio close to 1:20, temperature of 48.8 °C and 208.4 min extraction time.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in the present work demonstrated that the differences in rheological properties of chia mucilage extracts are due to the extraction methods used. Therefore, it is possible to modulate the extraction conditions in order to obtain different characteristics of the mucilage, maintaining a high extraction yield. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Visuospatial Deficits Are Associated with Pisa Syndrome and not Camptocormia in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Artusi Carlo Alberto , Montanaro Elisa , Erro Roberto , Margraf Nils , Geroin Christian , Pilotto Andrea , Magistrelli Luca , Spagnolo Francesca , Marchet Alberto , Sarro Lidia , Cuoco Sofia , Sacchetti Marta , Riello Marianna , Capellero Barbara , Berchialla Paola , Moeller Bettina , Vullriede Beeke , Zibetti Maurizio , Rini Augusto Maria , Barone Paolo , Comi Cristoforo , Padovani Alessandro , Tinazzi Michele , Lopiano Leonardo
Published: October 2022

Background

Pisa syndrome (PS) and camptocormia (CC) are postural abnormalities frequently associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). Their pathophysiology remains unclear, but the role of cognitive deficits has been postulated.

Objectives

To identify differences in the neuropsychological functioning of patients with PD with PS or CC compared with matched patients with PD without postural abnormalities.

Methods

We performed a case‐control study including 57 patients with PD with PS (PS+) or CC (CC+) and 57 PD controls without postural abnormalities matched for sex, age, PD duration, phenotype, and stage. Patients were divided into four groups: PS+ (n = 32), PS+ controls (PS−, n = 32), CC+ (n = 25), and CC+ controls (CC−, n = 25). We compared PS+ versus PS− and CC+ versus CC− using a neuropsychological battery assessing memory, attention, executive functions, visuospatial abilities, and language. Subjective visual vertical (SVV) perception was assessed by the Bucket test as a sign of vestibular function; the misperception of trunk position, defined as a mismatch between the objective versus subjective evaluation of the trunk bending angle >5°, was evaluated in PS+ and CC+.

Results

PS+ showed significantly worse visuospatial performances (P = 0.025) and SVV perception (P = 0.038) than their controls, whereas CC+ did not show significant differences compared with their control group. Reduced awareness of postural abnormality was observed in >60% of patients with PS or CC.

Conclusions

Low visuospatial performances and vestibular tone imbalance are significantly associated with PS but not with CC. These findings suggest different pathophysiology for the two main postural abnormalities associated with PD and can foster adequate therapeutic and prevention strategies.
Optimal maintenance service outsourcing strategy considering extended warranty service
Authors: Cao Kaiying , Su Yunyi , Han Guoxin , Wang Jia
Published: October 2022

In recent years, extended warranty (EW) services are widely provided by brand firms. Given that third‐party maintenance service providers have more maintenance cost advantages than brand firms, brand firms face the challenge of whether to enter the maintenance service market. To address the above challenge and issue, we develop theoretical models. The research shows that the cost coefficient of developing maintenance service plays a critical role in the optimal maintenance service operation strategy. And the base market sizes of the EW and the charged maintenance service have significant influences on the results. Moreover, we propose conditions for a win–win outcome.
Progressive Spinal Cord Degeneration in Friedreich's Ataxia: Results from ENIGMA‐Ataxia
Authors: Rezende Thiago J.R. , Adanyeguh Isaac M. , Arrigoni Filippo , Bender Benjamin , Cendes Fernando , Corben Louise A. , Deistung Andreas , Delatycki Martin , Dogan Imis , Egan Gary F. , Göricke Sophia L. , Georgiou‐Karistianis Nellie , Henry Pierre‐Gilles , Hutter Diane , Jahanshad Neda , Joers James M. , Lenglet Christophe , Lindig Tobias , Martinez Alberto R.M. , Martinuzzi Andrea , Paparella Gabriella , Peruzzo Denis , Reetz Kathrin , Romanzetti Sandro , Schöls Ludger , Schulz Jörg B. , Synofzik Matthis , Thomopoulos Sophia I. , Thompson Paul M. , Timmann Dagmar , Harding Ian H. , França Marcondes C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Spinal cord damage is a hallmark of Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA), but its progression and clinical correlates remain unclear.

Objective

The objective of this study was to perform a characterization of cervical spinal cord structural damage in a large multisite FRDA cohort.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional analysis of cervical spinal cord (C1–C4) cross‐sectional area (CSA) and eccentricity using magnetic resonance imaging data from eight sites within the ENIGMA‐Ataxia initiative, including 256 individuals with FRDA and 223 age‐ and sex‐matched control subjects. Correlations and subgroup analyses within the FRDA cohort were undertaken based on disease duration, ataxia severity, and onset age.

Results

Individuals with FRDA, relative to control subjects, had significantly reduced CSA at all examined levels, with large effect sizes (d > 2.1) and significant correlations with disease severity (r < −0.4). Similarly, we found significantly increased eccentricity (d > 1.2), but without significant clinical correlations. Subgroup analyses showed that CSA and eccentricity are abnormal at all disease stages. However, although CSA appears to decrease progressively, eccentricity remains stable over time.

Conclusions

Previous research has shown that increased eccentricity reflects dorsal column (DC) damage, while decreased CSA reflects either DC or corticospinal tract (CST) damage, or both. Hence our data support the hypothesis that damage to the DC and damage to CST follow distinct courses in FRDA: developmental abnormalities likely define the DC, while CST alterations may be both developmental and degenerative. These results provide new insights about FRDA pathogenesis and indicate that CSA of the cervical spinal cord should be investigated further as a potential biomarker of disease progression. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Evaluation of family history in individuals with heterozygous BRCA pathogenic variants diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer in a single center in Italy
Authors: Negri Serena , De Ponti Elena , Sina Federica Paola , Sala Elena , Dell'Oro Cristina , Roversi Gaia , Lazzarin Sara , Delle Marchette Martina , Inzoli Alesssandra , Toso Claudia , Fumagalli Simona , Campanella Maria , Kotsopoulos Joanne , Fruscio Robert
Published: October 2022

Background

BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are responsible for 5% of breast cancer (BC) and 10–15% of ovarian cancer (EOC). The presence of a germline mutation and therefore the identification of subjects at high risk of developing cancer should ideally precede the onset of the disease, so that appropriate surveillance and risk‐reducing treatments can be proposed. In this study, we revisited the family history (FH) of women who tested positive for BRCA mutations after being diagnosed with BC or EOC.

Methods

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®), and the Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM) guidelines were applied to the FH of 157 women who were referred to San Gerardo Hospital for genetic counseling.

Results

Almost 85% of women had an FH of BRCA‐related cancer. 63.7% and 52.2% of women could have undergone genetic testing according to NCCN and AIOM testing criteria (p < .05) before tumor diagnosis. An FH of EOC was the most frequent NCCN criterion, followed by BC diagnosed <45 years old. Sixty‐five percent of deceased women could have undergone genetic testing before developing cancer.

Conclusions

FH is a powerful tool to identify high‐risk individuals eligible for genetic counseling and testing. Testing of healthy individuals should be considered when an appropriately affected family member is unavailable for testing.
Use of accessible technology promotes increased engagement in day program
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: October 2022

Patient success in a psychiatric rehabilitation program often hinges on events occurring outside the limited time the patient spends at treatment. Seeking to keep patients more engaged at key moments in their week, a New Jersey day treatment program makes regular use of an innovative but still accessible tool for maintaining patient contact.
Church partnership to tackle suicide crisis among Black youth
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2022

Observing the increasing suicide rates among Black youth more than any other racial or ethnic group, according to a recent congressional report, a new program is aiming to partner with churches in suicide prevention efforts targeting this population.
On recovering quadratic pencils with singular coefficients and entire functions in the boundary conditions
Authors: Kuznetsova Maria
Published: October 2022

The paper deals with a new type of inverse spectral problems for second‐order quadratic differential pencils when one of the boundary conditions involves arbitrary entire functions of the spectral parameter. Although various aspects of the inverse spectral theory for the pencils have been of a special interest during the last decades, such settings were considered before only in the particular case of a Sturm–Liouville equation. We develop an approach covering also the quadratic dependence on the spectral parameter in the differential equation, which is based on the completeness and basisness of certain functional systems. By this approach, we obtain a uniqueness theorem and an algorithm for solving the inverse problem along with sufficient properties of the mentioned systems. The presented results give a universal tool for studying a number of important specific situations, including various Hochstadt–Lieberman‐type inverse problems both on an interval and on geometrical graphs, which is illustrated as well.
Is peer regulation perceived as an effective mediator to strengthen the mission orientation of INGO leaders?
Authors: Hengevoss Alice , von Schnurbein Georg
Published: October 2022

International non‐governmental organizations (INGOs) operate in competitive funding markets and face political pressures, which can incentivize their leaders to compromise their mission‐oriented strategy for more resource security. This article empirically investigates whether INGO leaders perceive peer regulation as an effective governance mechanism that allows them to strengthen their mission‐oriented strategy to withstand these economic and political constraints. In particular, we assess whether peer regulation is perceived to promote organizational learning processes. We test a partial least squares structural equation model (PLS‐SEM) based on a unique data set from an international survey among 201 INGO leaders from 21 countries. Our findings suggest that INGO leaders indeed perceive that peer regulation strengthens their mission orientation, despite the economic competition and political opportunity constraints their organization faces. This effect is partially mediated by organizational learning processes. Our findings are based on a constructivist perspective that emphasizes the learneffect of peer regulation on INGOs' strategic orientation, and allows the derivation of several managerial recommendations to foster INGOs' strategic autonomy.
Toward efficient functionalization of polystyrene backbone through ketene chemistry: Synthesis, characterization, and DFT study
Authors: Heydari Abolfazl , Hosseini Maryam , Darroudi Mahdieh , Behzadi Masoumeh , Hronský Viktor , Sučik Gabriel , Rouh Hossein , Sheibani Hassan
Published: October 2022

In this study, polystyrene was functionalized with Meldrum's acid toward the introduction of the ketenes (CCO) system to its backbone for producing a dramatically reactive intermediate. Meldrum's acid, as a ketene source, was reacted by poly(styrene‐co‐p‐chloromethyl styrene) through a simple nucleophilic reaction to synthesize poly(styrene‐co‐styryl Meldrum's acid). Then, the pendant Meldrum's acid under thermal treatment converted to ketene intermediate resulting in highly reactive polystyrenes derivatives, which rapidly reacted by nucleophilic reagents to afford ultimate organic building blocks. The polystyrene derivatives were characterized using elemental analysis, FT‐IR, high‐resolution solid‐state NMR, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential thermogravimetric analysis (DTG). To clarify the evolutionary mechanisms of polystyrene products, density functional theory (DFT) method B3LYP with the 6–311++G(2d,p) basis set was used. We studied the preparation of polystyrene model compounds through Meldrum's acid thermolysis and nucleophilic substitution. The kinetic and thermodynamic parameters in all reactions and the structural and electronic properties of all molecules were calculated. These data exhibited that based on Gibbs Free energy values, the structure of syndiotactic polystyrene is more stable than that of isotactic polystyrene. Furthermore, it was found that the presence of an electron donor or acceptor substituent on the polystyrene structure affects the electronic bandgap.
Imaging of pediatric renal tumors: A COG Diagnostic Imaging Committee/SPR Oncology Committee White Paper focused on Wilms tumor and nephrogenic rests
Authors: Artunduaga Maddy , Eklund Meryle , van der Beek Justine N. , Hammer Matthew , Littooij Annemieke S. , Sandberg Jesse K. , Schenk Jens‐Peter , Servaes Sabah , Singh Sudha , Smith Ethan A. , Srinavasan Abhay , Khanna Geetika
Published: October 2022

Malignant renal tumors account for approximately 6% of pediatric malignancies, with Wilms tumor (WT) representing approximately 90% of pediatric renal tumors. This paper provides consensus‐based imaging guidelines for the initial evaluation of a child with suspected WT and follow‐up during and after therapy co‐developed by the Children's Oncology Group (COG) Diagnostic Imaging and Society for Pediatric Radiology (SPR) oncology committees. The guidelines for Wilms Tumor Imaging in the Society of International Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) are briefly discussed to highlight some of the differences in imaging approach.
The evolution of fertility preservation care models in a large pediatric cancer and blood disorders center
Authors: Ludemann James , Pruett Megan , Klosky James L. , Meacham Lillian , Cherven Brooke
Published: October 2022

Background

Children and adolescents who receive gonadotoxic treatments are at risk for future infertility. While there is a growing focus on integrating fertility preservation (FP) within pediatric cancer and blood disorder centers, wide variations in care models and methods exist across institutions. The purpose of this work is to describe the evolution of FP care models within a large pediatric hematology/oncology center.

Methods

Models of care and associated timeframes are described, including a pre‐FP program model, establishment of a formal FP program, integration of nurse navigators, and the addition of FP consult stratification based on urgency (urgent/nonurgent). The number of patient consults within each model, patient sex, diagnosis (oncologic/hematologic), and consult timing (pre‐gonadotoxic treatment/posttreatment completion) were abstracted from the clinical database.

Results

The number of annual consults increased from 24 during the pre‐FP program model (2015) to 181 during the current care model (2020). Over time, the proportion of consults for females and patients with nonmalignant hematologic disorders increased. Patient stratification reduced the proportion of consults needing to be completed urgently from 75% at the advent of the FP program to 49% in the current model.

Conclusions

The evolution of care models within our FP program allowed for growth in the number of consults completed, expansion of services to more patients with nonmalignant hematologic disorders, and more consults for female patients. Nurse navigators play a critical role in care facilitating referrals, coordination, and patient education. Urgency stratification has allowed FP team members to manage increasing FP‐related encounters.
Viral infections in pediatric brain tumor patients treated with targeted therapies
Authors: Mayr Lisa , Steinmaurer Tobias , Weseslindtner Lukas , Madlener Sibylle , Strassl Robert , Gojo Johannes , Azizi Amedeo A. , Slavc Irene , Peyrl Andreas
Published: October 2022

Background

Brain tumors are the most common solid malignancies and the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality in children. While numerous studies report on viral infections in children with hematologic malignancies and solid organ transplantation, epidemiologic data on the incidence and outcome of viral infections in pediatric patients with brain tumors treated with targeted therapies are still lacking.

Objectives/study design

We retrospectively reviewed all children with brain tumors receiving targeted therapies in a primary or recurrent setting at the Medical University of Vienna from 2006 to 2021. Demographic variables, quantitative and qualitative parameters of possible infections, and treatment outcomes were recorded.

Results

In our cohort (n = 117), 36% of the patients developed at least one PCR‐proven viral infection. Respiratory and gastrointestinal tract infections were most common, with 31% and 25%, respectively. Central nervous system (CNS) infections occurred in approximately 10%, with an almost equal distribution of varicella‐zoster virus, John Cunningham virus (JCV), and enterovirus. Two patients tested PCR‐positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, with one virus‐related death caused by a SARS‐CoV‐2‐related acute respiratory distress syndrome. Patients receiving bevacizumab or mTOR inhibitors seem to have a greater susceptibility to viral infections.

Conclusion

Pediatric patients with brain tumors receiving targeted therapies have a higher risk of viral infections when compared to children receiving conventional chemotherapy or the general population, and life‐threatening infections can occur. Fast detection and upfront treatment are paramount to prevent life‐threatening infections in immunocompromised children suffering from brain tumors receiving targeted therapies.