bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ESG: The Next Chapter. Is Your Board Prepared?
Authors: O'Neil Tom
Published: January 2024

Tom O'Neil is the managing director at Berkely Research Group (BRG), a global consulting firm that helps leading organizations advance in three key areas: disputes and investigations, corporate finance, and performance improvement and advisory. In this article, Tom discusses environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges that will confront boards in 2024.
Regulatory mechanisms and regeneration strategies of the soft–hard tissue interface in the human periodontium
Authors: Dang Gao‐peng , Wei Yu , Wan Qian‐qian , Gu Jun‐ting , Wang Kai‐yan , Wan Mei‐chen , Wang Chen‐yu , Song Jing‐han , Mu Zhao , Tay Franklin R. , Niu Li‐na
Published: January 2024

The soft‐hard tissue interface of the human periodontium is responsible for periodontal homeostasis and is essential for normal oral activities. This soft‐hard tissue interface is formed by the direct insertion of fibrous ligaments into the bone tissue. It differs from the unique four‐layer structure of the fibrocartilage interface. This interface is formed by a combination of physical, chemical, and biological factors. The physiological functions of this interface are regulated by different signaling pathways. The unique structure of this soft‐hard tissue interface has inspired scientists to construct biomimetic gradient structures. These biomimetic systems include nanofiber scaffolds, cell sheets, and hydrogels. Exploring methods to repair this soft‐hard tissue interface can help solve clinically unresolved problems. The present review examines the structure of the soft‐hard tissue interface of the periodontium and the factors that influence the development of this interface. Relevant regulatory pathways and biomimetic reconstruction methods are also presented to provide ideas for future research on interfacial tissue engineering.
Circular value creation through environmental entrepreneurship initiatives: A case‐based exploration
Authors: Mohapatra Subhalaxmi , Roy Subhadip , Upadhyay Arvind , Kumar Anil
Published: January 2024

The present study builds on the domain of circular economy and its subdomain circular value creation to explore the entrepreneurial process of a small business in India. It aims to find how circular entrepreneurship as a process may unfold and how it may lead to value creation at different levels. The case study method is used to address the research objectives and a case study of a small entrepreneur based in India is selected for the same purpose. The analysis of the case and within case patterns (three subcases) illustrates circular entrepreneurship as a process with motivation, action and value creation as three main stages. The motivation of the entrepreneur leads to several actions related to business processes that are aimed at circular value creation. Subsequently, this leads to value creation at multiple levels such as the economy, business and society. Hence, the findings support the circular economy concept and its role in the creation of value at the small business level. The findings support the theoretical tenets of circular value creation and circular entrepreneurship using an interpretive approach.
Trabeculations of the porcine and human cardiac ventricles are different in number but similar in total volume
Authors: Jensen Bjarke , Salvatori Daniela , Schouten Jacobine , Meijborg Veronique M. F. , Lauridsen Henrik , Agger Peter
Published: January 2024

An intricate meshwork of trabeculations lines the luminal side of cardiac ventricles. Compaction, a developmental process, is thought to reduce trabeculations by adding them to the neighboring compact wall which is then enlarged. When pig, a plausible cardiac donor for xenotransplantation, is compared to human, the ventricular walls appear to have fewer trabeculations. We hypothesized the trabecular volume is proportionally smaller in pig than in human. Macroscopically, we observed in 16 pig hearts that the ventricular walls harbor few but large trabeculations. Close inspection revealed a high number of tiny trabeculations, a few hundred, within the recesses of the large trabeculations. While tiny, these were still larger than embryonic trabeculations and even when considering their number, the total tally of trabeculations in pig was much fewer than in human. Volumetrics based on high‐resolution MRI of additional six pig hearts compared to six human hearts, revealed the left ventricles were not significantly differently trabeculated (21.5 versus 22.8%, respectively), and the porcine right ventricles were only slightly less trabeculated (42.1 vs 49.3%, respectively). We then analyzed volumetrically 10 pig embryonic hearts from gestational day 14–35. The trabecular and compact layer always grew, as did the intertrabecular recesses, in contrast to what compaction predicts. The proportions of the trabecular and compact layers changed substantially, nonetheless, due to differences in their growth rate rather than compaction. In conclusion, processes that affect the trabecular morphology do not necessarily affect the proportion of trabecular‐to‐compact myocardium and they are then distinct from compaction.
UCP2 promotes NSCLC proliferation and glycolysis via the mTOR/HIF‐1α signaling
Authors: Song Cailu , Liu Qing , Qin Jing , Liu Lingrui , Zhou Zhigang , Yang Han
Published: January 2024

Background

Metabolic disturbance is a hallmark of cancers. Targeting key metabolic pathways and metabolism‐related molecular could be a potential therapeutic approach. Uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) plays a pivotal part in the malignancy of cancer and its capacity to develop resistance to pharmaceutical interventions. However, it is unclear about the mechanism of how UCP2 acts in the tumor growth and metabolic reprogramming process in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Here, we conducted qRT‐PCR to investigate the expression of UCP2 in both NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Subsequent functional studies including colony formation assay, CCK‐8 assay, and glycolysis assay were conducted to investigate the functions of UCP2 in NSCLC. The regulatory mechanism of UCP2 toward the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 alpha (HIF‐1α) signaling in NSCLC was confirmed through western blotting.

Results

We observed a significant upregulation of UCP2 in both NSCLC tissues and cell lines. The increased expression of UCP2 has a strong association with a worse outlook. Silencing UCP2 remarkably dampened NSCLC cell proliferation and glycolysis capacities. Mechanically, UCP2 promoted NSCLC tumorigenesis partially via regulating the mTOR/HIF‐1α axis.

Conclusion

Taken together, we explored the functions as well as the mechanisms of the UCP2/mTOR/HIF‐1α axis in NSCLC progression, uncovering potential biological signatures and targets for NSCLC treatment.
Cytotoxicity Activity of Some meso‐Dihydroguaiaretic Acid Derivatives and Mode of Action of the Most Active Compound.
Authors: Domínguez‐Chavarría José Antonio , García Abraham , Romo‐Mancillas Antonio , Reyes‐Melo Karen Y. , Chávez‐Villareal Karen G. , Vázquez‐Ramírez Ana L. , Ávalos‐Alanís Francisco G. , Cabral‐Romero Claudio , Hernández‐Delgadillo Rene , García‐Cuellar Claudia María , del Rayo Camacho‐Corona María
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to screen sixteen meso‐1 semi‐synthetic derivatives bearing ether, esther, carbamate, phosphate or aminoether functional groups against five cancer cell lines: MCF‐7 (breast), A549 (lung), HepG2 (liver), HeLa (cervix), and DU145 (prostate) at 25 μM using the MTT assay. Results from the screening showed that two derivatives had the lowest percentage of cell viability at 25 μM, the aminoether derivative meso‐11 and the esther derivative meso‐20 against A549 (44.15±0.78 %) and MCF‐7 (41.60±0.92 %), respectively. Then, it was determined the IC50 value of each compound against their most sensitive cancer cell line. Results showed that aminoether derivative meso‐11 showed potent cytotoxicity against A549 (IC50=17.11±2.11 μM), whereas it resulted more cytotoxic against the LL‐47 lung normal cell line (IC50=9.49±1.19 μM) having a Selective Index (SI) of 0.55. On the other hand, the esther derivative meso‐20 exhibited potent activity against MCF‐7 (IC50=18.20±1.98 μM), whereas it displayed moderate cytotoxicity against the MCF‐10 breast normal cell line (IC50=41.22±2.17 μM) with a SI of 2.2. Finally, studies on the mechanism of action of meso‐20 indicated disruption of MCF‐7 plasma membrane in vitro and the AMPK activation in silico.
Direct Growth Control of Antibiotic‐Resistant Bacteria Using Visible‐Light‐Responsive Novel Photoswitchable Antibiotics
Authors: Bhunia Supriya , Jana Santosh Kumar , Sarkar Soumik , Das Arpan , Mandal Sukhendu , Samanta Subhas
Published: January 2024

In addition to the discovery of new (modified) potent antibiotics to combat antibiotic resistance, there is a critical need to develop novel strategies that would restrict their off‐target effects and unnecessary exposure to bacteria in our body and environment. We report a set of new photoswitchable arylazopyrazole‐modified norfloxacin antibiotics that present a high degree of bidirectional photoisomerization, impressive fatigue resistance and reasonably high cis half‐lives. The irradiated isomers of most compounds were found to exhibit nearly equal or higher antibacterial activity than norfloxacin against Gram‐positive bacteria. Notably, against norfloxacin‐resistant S. aureus bacteria, the visible‐light‐responsive p‐SMe‐substituted derivative showed remarkably high antimicrobial potency (MIC of 0.25 μg/mL) in the irradiated state, while the potency was reduced by 24‐fold in case of its non‐irradiated state. The activity was estimated to be retained for more than 7 hours. This is the first report to demonstrate direct photochemical control of the growth of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria and to show the highest activity difference between irradiated and non‐irradiated states of a photoswitchable antibiotic. Additionally, both isomers were found to be non‐harmful to human cells. Molecular modellings were performed to identify the underlying reason behind the high‐affinity binding of the irradiated isomer to topoisomerase IV enzyme.
Dextrans, Pullulan and Lentinan, New Scaffold Materials for Use as Hydrogels in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Lienig Pascal , Banerjee Samhita , Kenneweg Franziska , Thum Thomas , Kirschning Andreas , Dräger Gerald
Published: January 2024

The development of hydrogels based on dextrans, pullulan and lentinan to be used in biomedical applications including tissue engineering is reported. Despite the fact that selected polysaccharides such as hyaluronic acid are well established, little is known, how these polysaccharides can be chemically modified to create hydrogels under controlled conditions. In this study we present a small library of chemically modified polysaccharides which are used for a divergent approach to achieve biomedical relevant hydrogels. In this case the crosslinking is based on thio ether formation between thiol modified donor and vinylsulfone or maleimide modified acceptor components. Successful synthesis of the linker systems and coupling at the polysaccharides, hydrogel formation takes place under physiological conditions. We extended the study by coupling small molecules like adhesion factors for increasing cell compatibility as well as a dye for further studies. The different hydrogels were studied to their rheological properties, water uptake, their permeability, biodegrability and their cytotoxicity.
Recurrent spinal atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor with pulmonary metastasis
Authors: Yaguchi Akinori , Fujimura Junya , Maruyama Kazutaka , Fujiwara Megumi , Ishibashi Takeshi , Tomita Osamu , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: January 2024

Background

Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (ATRT) are aggressive pediatric central nervous system malignancies that predominantly affect the brain and have poor survival outcomes. However, spinal ATRT is an uncommon subset of ATRT, and its clinical course and management are poorly understood.

Case

We describe a case of spinal ATRT in a previously healthy 5‐year‐old girl who initially presented with rapid‐onset gait disturbance. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an extramedullary tumor at thoracic level 5 (T5) without bony destruction or metastasis. The patient partially recovered after surgical resection. One month was required for a definitive diagnosis, and the pathology confirmed ATRT characterized by the loss of INI‐1 protein expression. Chemoradiotherapy with local irradiation and high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation led to complete remission and functional recovery for 5 months. However, the condition exhibited progression in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) region, resulting in cerebellar, cerebral, and spinal tumor development. Eventually, the disease metastasized to the lungs and disseminated to the entire cerebrospinal cord and fluid. The patient died 15 months after the initial diagnosis.

Conclusion

This case emphasizes the importance of considering ATRT as a potential diagnostic modality for pediatric spinal cord tumors, enabling prompt multidisciplinary intervention. The heterogeneous appearance of spinal ATRT may make distinguishing it from other spinal tumors difficult, resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. The treatment approach for ATRT remains challenging with no established standards. Local irradiation may be preferable to minimize neurodevelopmental effects, and initial craniospinal irradiation may potentially prevent recurrence. Our case emphasizes the likelihood of extracranial metastasis in ATRT, thereby highlighting the importance of a comprehensive assessment of both genetic and epigenetic profiles to identify any factors that may influence the clinical course of this disease. Prompt diagnosis and comprehensive therapeutic strategies are critical for improving outcomes in spinal ATRT patients.
Healthcare cost and utilization for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy in the treatment of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A commercial insurance claims database analysis
Authors: Hoover Alex , Reimche Paige , Watson Dave , Tanner Lynn , Gilchrist Laura , Finch Mike , Messinger Yoav H. , Turcotte Lucie M.
Published: January 2024

Background

B‐lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) is the most common malignancy of childhood. With the introduction of novel cellular therapies, cost of care is a critical component and the financial burden experienced by patients and society requires evaluation.

Aims

This study aims to assess the utilization and cost of care for chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapy for pediatric ALL patients with commercial insurance coverage in the United States.

Methods and Results

Using de‐identified commercial insurance data from the OptumLabs® Data Warehouse, a cohort of 37 patients, aged 1‐25 years, with B‐ALL treated with CAR‐T therapy between Oct 2016 and Dec 2021 in the United States was identified. Cost was evaluated for a 90 day period encompassing CAR‐T infusion and by administration and complication characteristics. Among the 37 identified B‐ALL patients that received a CAR‐T product infusion, 14 patients were female, median age at administration was 13 years. The median 90‐day total cost was $620,500 (Mean: $589,108). Inpatient cost accounted for approximately 71% of the total cost with an average of 28 inpatient days per patient. Although inpatient cost was slightly higher in the older age group (aged 10‐25 years) and in patients with a code for cytokine release syndrome (CRS), these differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

This real‐world cost analysis shows for the first time the encompassing cost of CAR‐T therapy for pediatric B‐ALL patients in the US with commercial insurance. This study provides a valuable benchmark that can be used to analyze the financial implications of CAR‐T therapy for pediatric B‐ALL therapy on health systems.
The relationship between treatment integrity and outcome in group psychotherapy: A systematic review
Authors: Esposito Giovanna , Di Maro Angela , Passeggia Raffaella
Published: January 2024

Treatment integrity is defined as the extent to which the treatment has been implemented according to a specific theoretical model. It consists of two components: adherence, that is, the degree to which the therapist implements the techniques prescribed by the theoretical model, and competence, that is, the degree to which the therapist skilfully and appropriately implements the techniques prescribed by the model. Recently, the issue of integrity is gaining increasing importance in psychotherapy research, especially in an attempt to clarify its role in influencing the effectiveness of treatments. However, most studies focus on the individual setting. Therefore, this systematic review aims at investigating the relationship between integrity and outcome in group clinical treatments. Results highlighted a positive relationship between group treatment integrity and outcome. Moreover, this review provided insights for implications for research, clinical practice, and training of therapists, identifying questions that still need to be answered and tracing possible future research directions.
“I don't have time for this”: Time perspectives and conflict management message styles
Authors: Fife Eric , Nelson C. Leigh
Published: January 2024

Two web survey studies were conducted to examine the connection between people's time perspectives and the conflict management message styles they were likely to endorse. People view time in multiple ways from the past, present and/or future perspectives. These studies examine whether time perspectives are important predictors of how one approaches conflict and specifically the messages they are likely to endorse, and thus are more likely to use themselves. In the undergraduate sample, self‐oriented conflict message use was positively correlated to a past negative and a present fatalistic perspective of time. Self‐oriented conflict message use was negatively related to a past positive and future orientation time perspective. Other‐oriented message usage was positively correlated to a past negative, present hedonist, present fatalistic, and transcendental orientation toward time. Issue‐oriented message use was positively correlated with a past negative, present fatalistic, future, and transcendental orientation toward time. Utilizing an online sample, self‐oriented conflict management message use was positively correlated to a past negative, present hedonistic, present fatalistic and transcendental perspective of time. Self‐oriented conflict management message use was negatively related to a future orientation of time. Other‐orientation message use was positively related to a past negative, present hedonistic, present fatalistic and a transcendental orientation of time. Lastly, issue‐oriented message use was positively related to a past positive, present hedonistic, future, and transcendental orientation toward time. Time perspectives were significant predictors for the likelihood of utilizing various conflict management message styles when in conflict. The authors also consider practical implications of the research findings.
Graft CD8 T‐cell‐based risk system predicts survival in antithymocyte globulin‐based myeloablative haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell transplantation
Authors: Zhu Panpan , Yang Luxin , Wu Yibo , Shi Jimin , Lai Xiaoyu , Liu Lizhen , Ye Yishan , Yu Jian , Zhao Yanmin , Yuan Xiaolin , Fu Huarui , Cai Zhen , Huang He , Luo Yi
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study investigated the cellular composition of peripheral blood grafts for anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG)‐based myeloablative haploidentical haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo‐HSCT).

Methods

Clinical characteristics were retrospectively evaluated in a training cohort with ATG‐based myeloablative haplo‐HSCT between January 2016 and February 2020 and confirmed in a validation cohort between March 2020 and June 2021.

Results

A higher dose of graft CD8+ T cells (≥ 0.85 × 108 kg−1) was significantly improved overall survival (OS; hazard ratio [HR], 1.750; P = 0.002) and disease‐free survival (DFS; HR, 1.751; P < 0.001) in the training cohort, according to multivariate Cox regression analysis. Higher doses of mononuclear cells (MNCs) demonstrated better OS (HR, 1.517; P = 0.038) and DFS (HR, 1.532; P = 0.027). Older patient age (> 46 years), older donor age (≥ 50 years) and a higher refined disease risk index (rDRI) were also related to OS. A graft CD8+ T‐cell risk system based on graft CD8+ T‐cell dose, donor age and rDRI was constructed using a nomogram model after LASSO Cox regression analysis. It showed acceptable discrimination, with a C‐index of 0.62 and 0.63, respectively. Graft CD8+ T‐cell dose was negatively correlated with donor age (P < 0.001) and positively correlated with a higher lymphocyte percentage in the peripheral blood before mobilisation (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

A higher CD8+ T‐cell dose in peripheral blood‐derived grafts improves patients' survival with ATG‐based myeloablative haplo‐HSCT. Younger donors with higher lymphocyte percentages improved patients' survival with an intermediate rDRI risk.
Standardization of flow cytometric detection of antigen expression
Authors: Tian Linhua , Nelson Aaron R. , Lowe Tyler , Weaver Linda , Yuan Constance , Wang Hao‐Wei , DeRose Paul , Stetler‐Stevenson Maryalice , Wang Lili
Published: January 2024

Since response to antigen‐based immunotherapy relies upon the level of tumor antigen expression we developed an antigen quantification assay using ABC values. Antigen quantification as a clinical assay requires methods for quality control and for interlaboratory and inter‐cytometer platform standardization. A single lot of Cytotrol™ Lyophilized Control Cells (Beckman Coulter) used for all studies. The variability in antigen quantification across 4 different instrument platforms in 2 separate laboratories was evaluated. The effect of the antibody clone utilized, importance of custom 1:1 molar ratio (fluorophore to protein, F/P) verses off‐the‐shelf antibodies, and QuantiBrite PE calibration verses linearity calibration combined with a single point scale transformation with CD4 as reference were determined. Use of single lot control cells allowed validation of reproducibility between flow cytometer platforms and laboratories and allowed assessment of different antibody lots, cocktail preparation, and different antibody clones. Off the shelf antibody preparations provide reproducible estimates of antigen density, however custom 1:1 unimolar antibody preparations should be utilized for definitive measurement of antigen expression.Geometric Mean fluorescent Intensity (GeoMFI) was not comparable across instruments and inter‐laboratory. The use of CD4 as the reference marker can minimize variability in ABC values. Comparable antigen quantification is vital in managing patients receiving antigen‐based immunotherapy. If this assay is to be utilized in a clinical setting, quality control methods have to be instituted to assure reproducibility and allow validation across laboratories. We have demonstrated that use of a lyophilized cell control is highly valuable in achieveing these goals.
Fine needle aspiration of spindle cell lipoma—Lochkern cells as a clue for diagnosis: A case arising in the parotid gland
Authors: Taweevisit Mana , Thorner Paul Scott
Published: January 2024

Spindle cell lipoma (SCL) is a rare form of lipoma, typically occurring as a mass in the back, shoulder or posterior neck of adult males. Most cases present little diagnostic difficulty on fine needle aspiration (FNA), but can be problematic when the SCL is in an unusual location. The authors report a case in the parotid gland in a 75‐year‐old man. FNA was paucicellular and showed loose collections of spindle cells with mild to moderate atypia, admixed with ropy collagen fibers on a myxoid background. The nuclei showed occasional angulation, interpreted on FNA as suspicious for myoepithelial tumor or low‐grade sarcoma. The subsequent excisional specimen was diagnosed as SCL. On retrospective review of the FNA, an additional finding was recognized: ‘naked’ nuclei with intranuclear lipid vacuoles and positive immunostaining for S100 protein, consistent with Lochkern cells of mature adipocytes. This case highlights the challenges of diagnosing SCL on cytology when no fat‐containing cells are apparent on the smear, and stresses the significance of Lochkern cells as a clue for diagnosis.
Disproportionate cancer worries in ultra‐short‐segment Barrett's esophagus in Japan
Authors: Fukuda Sho , Watanabe Kenta , Takahashi So , Yoshida Tatsuki , Fujimori Shusei , Komatsu Taiga , Shimodaira Yosuke , Matsuhashi Tamotsu , Iijima Katsunori
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Although Barrett's esophagus (BE), especially ultra‐short‐segment BE (USSBE), is very frequently diagnosed in Japan, how subjects feel about receiving a diagnosis of BE is unclear. We therefore prospectively investigated cancer worry in subjects who received a BE diagnosis.

Methods

Self‐administered questionnaires were sent to subjects who were diagnosed with BE at three health checkup institutes in Akita Prefecture, Japan. The cancer worry scale (CWS) was used to quantitatively assess the fear of developing cancer. The BE subjects were classified into USSBE <1 cm and non‐USSBE ≥1 cm groups. Factors associated with the CWS were investigated using logistic regression analyses.

Results

A total of 325 (31%) subjects, comprising 229 USSBE and 96 non‐USSBE patients were included in this study. Compared with the USSBE group, the non‐USSBE group had a significantly higher frequency of a history of a BE diagnosis and perception of carcinogenesis. However, the CWS was similar between the USSBE and non‐USSBE groups, with a median CWS of 12.5 (3.75) versus 12.7 (3.65). A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that while positive reflux symptoms were significantly associated with a positive CWS, the BE length was not significantly associated with it, with an odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 1.3 (0.75–2.2).

Conclusions

A BE diagnosis promotes a similar level of worry about cancer among subjects, irrespective of the length of BE. In Japan, since USSBE poses a much lower cancer risk than non‐USSBE, the former may frequently be associated with a disproportionate cancer worry relative to the latter. (UMIN000044010)
Electrochemical difference between single‐ and poly‐crystalline LaF3 for a compact and low‐price fluoride ion sensor
Authors: Kanda Kaito , Yamada Tetsuya , Yanagida Yasuko , Kubota Yuta , Matsushita Nobuhiro , Mayanagi Gen , Washio Jumpei , Takahashi Nobuhiro
Published: January 2024

Fluoride ion sensor electrodes that use polycrystalline LaF3 prepared by low‐temperature sintering can reduce sensor size and fabrication costs; however, decreasing the sintering temperature deteriorates sensor performance. Further, it is unclear why the performance of polycrystalline LaF3 prepared at low temperatures is inferior to that of the single‐crystal LaF3. Thus, in this study, we investigated factors that deteriorate sensor response under low sintering temperatures, such as solution penetration, fluorine conductivity, and ion exchange. To this end, LaF3 was prepared by changing the sintering temperature, and the electrical characteristics and sensor performance were evaluated and compared with those of the single‐crystal LaF3. The sensor performances of LaF3 sintered at 900 °C (−9.3 mV/dec) and 1000 °C (−5.8 mV/dec) were inferior to that of a single‐crystal LaF3 (−49.9 mV/dec). LaF3 prepared by sintering over 800 °C achieved fluorine removal and showed lower ion conductivity and ion exchange compared to that of the single‐crystal LaF3. LaF3 sintered at 700 °C did not show a sensor response because of solution penetration into the through‐pore. Our results confirmed that solution penetration, ion conductivity, and ion exchange influence the sensor performance of LaF3. Finally, we discussed approaches to achieve high sensor performance with LaF3 prepared by low‐temperature sintering. The proposed approaches are expected to contribute to expanding the utility of fluoride ion sensor electrodes with LaF3.
Left‐sided epileptiform activity influences language lateralization in right mesial temporal sclerosis
Authors: de Almeida Juliana Passos , Castro Bettina Martins , Passarelli Valmir , Chaim Khallil Taverna , Castro‐Lima Humberto , Listik Clarice , Jorge Carmen Lisa , Valerio Rosa , Arantes Paula Ricci , Amaro Edson , Pipek Leonardo Zumerkorn , Castro Luiz H.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate the association between left epileptiform activity and language laterality indices (LI) in patients with right mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS).

Methods

Twenty‐two patients with right MTS and 22 healthy subjects underwent fMRI scanning while performing a language task. LI was calculated in multiple regions of interest (ROI). Data on the presence of left epileptiform abnormalities were obtained during prolonged video‐EEG monitoring.

Results

After correction for multiple comparisons, LI was reduced in the middle temporal gyrus in the left interictal epileptiform discharges (IED+) group, compared with the left IED− group (p < 0.05).

Significance

Using a responsive reading naming fMRI paradigm, right MTS patients who presented left temporal interictal epileptiform abnormalities on video‐EEG showed decreased LI in the middle temporal gyrus, indicating decreased left middle temporal gyrus activation, increased right middle temporal gyrus activation or a combination of both, demonstrative of language network reorganization, specially in the MTG, in this patient population.

Plain Language Summary

This research studied 22 patients with right mesial temporal sclerosis (a specific type of epilepsy) comparing them to 22 healthy individuals. Participants were asked to perform a language task while undergoing a special brain imaging technique (fMRI). The findings showed that patients with epilepsy displayed a change in the area of the brain typically responsible for language processing. This suggests that their brains may have adapted due to their condition, altering the way language is processed.
Design and commissioning of novel test apparatus for underground structures and its application in seismic damage testing of prefabricated subway station
Authors: Chen Jinnan , Xu Chengshun , Du Xiuli , El Naggar Hesham M. , Han Runbo
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the design and commissioning of a novel pseudo‐static test apparatus for underground structures that accounts for soil‐structure interaction by simulating the soil with suitably designed springs. The developed apparatus was employed to conduct 1:10 large scale tests on a two‐story three‐span prefabricated subway station structure. Two comparative cyclic load tests were conducted: one involved the developed springs‐structure system; and one involved the structure alone (no springs). The test results demonstrated important differences in the damage location, damage degree, bearing capacity, and deformation capacity of the prefabricated subway station structure under the two loading conditions (i.e., with and without springs). The presence of springs (i.e., soil‐structure interaction) enhanced the lateral collapse resistance of the underground structure and affected the inter‐story displacement ratio (IDR) between the upper and lower layers of the two‐story prefabricated subway station structure. However, it did not affect the deformation coordination of the walls and columns of each layer. A finite element model of the prototype station was also established to conduct dynamic time history analysis simulating the soil‐structure interaction. The results from the dynamic analysis validated the effectiveness of the pseudo‐static test method employing the spring‐structure system. The excellent agreement between the calculated dynamic responses and the responses obtained from the pseudo static tests confirmed the ability of the developed apparatus to conduct seismic tests on complex large‐scale underground structures such as prefabricated subway stations. Thus, this test methodology might be utilized to attain valuable insights into the seismic performance of prefabricated subway stations at a relatively low cost and effort.
Gated recurrent unit network: A promising approach to corporate default prediction
Authors: Thor Michał , Postek Łukasz
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a promising approach using gated recurrent unit (GRU) network to predict bankruptcy based on the whole sequence of financial statements of the companies listed on an unregulated market. This approach contrasts with the traditional literature where default prediction is usually tackled with methods that do not fully account for a company's history. The GRU network can be used to model long‐term dependencies thanks to its update and reset gates, which prevent the vanishing gradient problem and decide how much of the past information is relevant for predicting a default. This aspect may be of utmost importance in alternative markets where the signal detection problem is particularly strong. The performance of the GRU network is compared against the performance of other standard machine learning methods including Cox proportional hazards, gradient‐boosted Cox proportional hazards model, extreme gradient boosting, random survival forest, and standard recurrent neural networks on the basis of a broad selection of performance metrics. The GRU network not only outperforms standard machine learning methods in out‐of‐sample forecasts but also seems to be more robust in terms of in‐ versus out‐of‐sample performance.
Fermentation of cocoa pod husks with Pleurotus salmoneo‐stramineus for food applications
Authors: Bickel Haase Thomas , Klis Victoria , Hammer Andreas Klaus , Pinto Lopez Claudia , Verheyen Christoph , Naumann‐Gola Susanne , Zorn Holger
Published: January 2024

Cocoa pod husks (CPHs), the major side‐stream from cocoa production, were valorized through fermentation with Pleurotus salmoneo‐stramineus (PSS). Considering ergosterol as a biomarker for the fungal content, the mycelium accounted for 54% of the total biomass after 8 days in submerged cultures. The crude protein content of fermented CPH (CPHF) increased from 7.3 g/100 g DM in CPH to 18.9 g/100 g DM. CPH fermentation resulted in a high biological value of 86 for the protein. The water and oil binding capacities of CPHF were 3.5 mL/g and 2.1 mL/g, respectively. The particle diameter dv,0,90 of CPHF was 373 μm as compared to 526 μm for CPH. The total dietary fiber was 73.4 g/100 g DM in CPHF and 63.6 g/100 g DM in CPH. The amount of soluble fiber was 2.3 g/100 g DM in CPHF and 10.1 g/100 g DM in CPH; the insoluble fraction accounted for 71.1 g/100 g DM and 53.6 g/100 g DM, respectively. Bread doughs with CPH or CPHF were characterized for texture, color, and farinographic properties. The dough hardness, consistency, and browning index increased with the concentration of CPH, whereas for CPHF, springiness and peak viscosities declined. We demonstrate the upcycling of CPH into nutritious and functional ingredients through PSS fermentation.
Influence of saliva on the sensory properties of US commercial smoke affected wines: Preliminary findings
Authors: Paup Victoria D. , Montero Maria L. , Ross Carolyn F. , Lee Jungmin
Published: January 2024

Previous research has suggested that the impact of smoke affected wines require human evaluation due to in‐mouth changes in perception, perhaps associated with saliva. Smoke affected wines (n = 36) from three major wine growing regions in the US were sourced from commercial wineries. A subset of these wines (n = 7) were evaluated by a consumer panel (n = 57) and electronic tongue (e‐tongue) to determine the influence of saliva in the sensory profile. Consumers assessed the wines for aroma and other sensory attributes, before and after individual saliva addition. Pooled saliva from consumers was used to treat all wines obtained (n = 36) and then analyzed using the e‐tongue. Results showed that saliva did not significantly alter the overall aroma, other than fruity or woody aroma liking by consumers (p > .05). However, the presence of saliva significantly lowered overall liking in both red and white wines that were affected by smoke (p ≤ .05). Consumers rated the subset of smoke affected wines below the “might purchase” category, indicating these wines were not considered acceptable by consumers. When individual pairs of smoke affected wines (before and after saliva additions) were assessed using the e‐tongue, the device was able to differentiate the pairs, validating potential usefulness to discern wine changes, though the discrimination indices were moderate to low (68.8% to 11.9%). Based on these data, in human ratings of the aroma and appearance of smoked affected wines, saliva decreased overall liking, and this was somewhat distinguishable by e‐tongue analysis.
Purification, characterization, and antioxidant ability of polysaccharides from Phascolosoma esculentas
Authors: Zhou Fengfang , Cai Binxin , Ruan Shaojiang , Wei Qi
Published: January 2024

The polysaccharide was extracted from Phascolosoma esculenta (PEP). Two purified polysaccharides (PEP‐1 and PEP‐2) were obtained by the column chromatography separation method. The molecular weights of PEP‐1 and PEP‐2 were 33.6 and 5.7 × 103 kDa, respectively. PEP‐1 and PEP‐2 had the same monosaccharides composition, but their molar ratios varied. The in vitro antioxidant activity of the PEP, PEP‐1, and PEP‐2 were investigated by scavenging free radicals like 3‐ethylbenzoth‐iazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS), •OH, and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Additionally, the in vivo antioxidant activity of PEP‐1 was examined using the Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) organism. Results showed that PEP‐1 was much more effective than PEP and PEP‐2 at scavenging DPPH, •OH, and ABTS radicals. Additionally, PEP‐1 strengthened C. elegans' ability to endure oxidative stress. PEP‐1 possessed the in vivo antioxidant capacity, including the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content reducing, and protective effect on antioxidant enzyme activities in C. elegans. In summary, PEP, PEP‐1, and PEP‐2 might have the potential to develop as functional foods and clinical medications.
Luteal phase support of intramuscular progesterone associated with lower hypertensive disorders of pregnancy as compared to vaginal progesterone: A cohort study
Authors: Li Na , Fan Lijuan , Cai He , Pan Dan , Shi Wenhao , Shi Juanzi , Wang Hui
Published: January 2024

Objective

To compare the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) risk between vaginal and intramuscular (IM) progesterone in programmed frozen–thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary hospital, and only women who achieved ongoing pregnancy after programmed FET between January 2018 and June 2022 were included. Women with chronic hypertension before pregnancy or with history of gestational hypertension or pre‐eclampsia in previous pregnancies were excluded. All women were divided into IM progesterone or vaginal progesterone groups according to the route of progesterone supplementation. Follow‐up information on obstetric complications and neonatal outcomes were obtained by telephonic interviews. The primary outcome was HDP. Association between routes of progesterone supplementation and HDP was assessed by subgroup analysis and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

A total of 5891 programmed FET cycles (3196 IM progesterone cycles and 2695 vaginal progesterone cycles) were included in the analysis. The prevalence of HDP in the IM progesterone group was significantly lower than that of the vaginal progesterone group (6.54% vs 9.17%, P < 0.001). Therein, the prevalence of gestational hypertension (3.57% vs 4.94%, P = 0.009) and pre‐eclampsia (2.97% vs 4.23%, P = 0.009) in the IM progesterone group were all significantly lower as compared to the vaginal progesterone group. According to subgroup analysis, IM progesterone was associated with lower HDP risk in all subgroups. The logistic regression analysis showed that the IM progesterone cycles were associated with lower risk of HDP compared to vaginal progesterone cycles (adjusted odds ratio 0.66, 95% CI: 0.54–0.80, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Among women undergoing programmed FET cycles, progesterone supplementation with IM progesterone was associated with reduced HDP risk compared to vaginal progesterone.
Prenatal ultrasound signs of Aarskog‐Scott syndrome in a twin pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Bertucci Emma , Giulini Simone , Sighinolfi Giovanna , Benuzzi Martina , Lugli Licia
Published: January 2024

Synopsis

We describe the case of Aarskog‐Scott syndrome in a twin pregnancy with the prenatal finding of shortened fetal long bones.
Nanoparticle‐based therapeutic strategies for mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Suzuki Isabella , Xing Huihua , Giblin Joshua , Ashraf Anisa , Chung Eun Ji
Published: January 2024

Although cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of global mortality, there is a lack of therapies that target and revert underlying pathological processes. Mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the pathophysiology of CVD, and thus is a potential target for therapeutic development. To target the mitochondria and improve therapeutic efficacy, nanoparticle‐based delivery systems have been proposed as promising strategies for the delivery of therapeutic agents to the mitochondria. This review will first discuss how mitochondrial dysfunction is related to the progression of several CVD and then delineate recent progress in mitochondrial targeting using nanoparticle‐based delivery systems including peptide‐based nanosystems, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, and lipid nanoparticles. In addition, we summarize the advantages of these nanocarriers and remaining challenges in targeting the mitochondria as a therapeutic strategy for CVD treatment.
Jahn‐Teller distortion, octahedra rotations and orbital ordering in perovskites: KScF 3 as a model system
Authors: Pascale F. , D'Arco P. , Lebègue S. , Dovesi R.
Published: January 2024

The KScF perovskite has been used as a model for investigating the relative importance of the Jahn‐Teller (JT) lift of degeneracy, the ScF octahedra rotation (OR), and the quadrupole‐quadrupole interaction linked to different occupancy of the Sc t subshell in various sites of the unit cell (orbital ordering, OO). The group‐subgroup sequence , , , and , supplemented by and , has been explored by using an Gaussian type basis set, hybrid functionals, and the CRYSTAL17 code. The JT lift of degeneracy provides a stabilization about 5 times larger than the sum of the OO and OR effects. The energy gained in the transition from to , consisting in a rotation of the octahedra around the axis, is 1077 E. From to , additional rotations around the and axes are possible, and the Sc electron can occupy a different t orbital, with a total energy reduction of 2318 E. The rotation of the octahedra reduces the strength of superexchange: in going from to the G‐AFM stabilization with respect to FM shrinks by a factor 4.
Mutual influence of non‐covalent interactions formed by imidazole: A systematic quantum‐chemical study
Authors: Shitov Daniil A. , Krutin Danil V. , Tupikina Elena Yu.
Published: January 2024

Imidazole is a five‐membered heterocycle that is part of a number of biologically important molecules such as the amino acid histidine and the hormone histamine. Imidazole has a unique ability to participate in a variety of non‐covalent interactions involving the NH group, the pyridine‐like nitrogen atom or the π‐system. For many biologically active compounds containing the imidazole moiety, its participation in formation of hydrogen bond NH⋯O/N and following proton transfer is the key step of mechanism of their action. In this work a systematic study of the mutual influence of various paired combinations of non‐covalent interactions (e.g., hydrogen bonds and π‐interactions) involving the imidazole moiety was performed by means of quantum chemistry (PW6B95‐GD3/def2‐QZVPD) for a series of model systems constructed based on analysis of available x‐ray data. It is shown that for considered complexes formation of additional non‐covalent interactions can only enhance the proton‐donating ability of imidazole. At the same time, its proton‐accepting ability can be both enhanced and weakened, depending on what additional interactions are added to a given system. The mutual influence of non‐covalent interactions involving imidazole can be classified as weak geometric and strong energetic cooperativity—a small change in the length of non‐covalent interaction formed by imidazole can strongly influence its strength. The latter can be used to develop methods for controlling the rate and selectivity of chemical reactions involving the imidazole fragment in larger systems. It is shown that the strong mutual influence of non‐covalent interactions involving imidazole is due to the unique ability of the imidazole ring to effectively redistribute electron density in non‐covalently bound systems with its participation.
Exploring the occurrence of microaggressions in the genetic counseling student–supervisor relationship: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Ramsey Kyra , Carmichael Nikkola , Gutierrez‐Kapheim Melissa , Dell‐Suguitan Mike Darren , Lopez Santibanez Jacome Laura , Bao Annie K. , Hoell Christin
Published: January 2024

While research has shown that genetic counseling students with minoritized racial or ethnic identities face microaggressions throughout graduate training, quantitative data regarding the frequency of these experiences have not been reported. The purpose of this mixed‐methods study was to investigate the frequency and types of microaggressions experienced by graduates of accredited genetic counseling programs in the United States during fieldwork rotations. A quantitative survey was administered to assess how frequently 14 different types of microaggressions occurred in interactions with supervisors. Survey responses were analyzed using situation‐based coding (the number of different types of microaggressions experienced) and frequency‐based coding (the sum of participants' weighted Likert answers). Select survey respondents with minoritized identities were interviewed to better contextualize and categorize microaggression experiences. Analysis of 87 survey responses revealed that participants with minoritized racial and ethnic identities experience significantly more types of microaggressions (t(61) = 2.77; p = 0.007) at a significantly higher frequency (t(55) = 2.67; p = 0.010) than their white counterparts. Participants who identified as part of the disability community were also found to experience significantly more types of microaggressions (t(10) = 3.25; p = 0.009) at a significantly higher frequency (t(9) = 2.32; p = 0.045) than those who did not. Qualitative analysis of 11 interviews revealed that microaggressions from supervisors included offensive and inappropriate comments, unequal treatment, cultural intolerance, and disparaging feedback. Overall, our data present evidence that students with minoritized racial and ethnic identities and students with disabilities are subjected to a variety of inequitable, exclusionary, and harmful interactions. As a result, we recommend that all supervisors receive training about recognizing and preventing microaggressions to ensure that students are provided with an equitable and inclusive training experience, regardless of identity.