bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population Prevalence of Vision Impairment in US Adults 71 Years and Older
Authors: Killeen Olivia J. , De Lott Lindsey B. , Zhou Yunshu , Hu Mengyao , Rein David , Reed Nicholas , Swenor Bonnielin K. , Ehrlich Joshua R.
Published: January 2023

Importance

Existing estimates of the prevalence of vision impairment (VI) in the United States are based on self-reported survey data or measures of visual function that are at least 14 years old. Older adults are at high risk for VI and blindness. There is a need for up-to-date, objectively measured, national epidemiological estimates.

Objective

To present updated national epidemiological estimates of VI and blindness in older US adults based on objective visual function testing.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This survey study presents a secondary data analysis of the 2021 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a population-based, nationally representative panel study of Medicare beneficiaries 65 years and older. NHATS includes community-dwelling older adults or their proxies who complete in-person interviews; annual follow-up interviews are conducted regardless of residential status. Round 11 NHATS data were collected from June to November 2021, and data were analyzed in August 2022.

Interventions

In 2021, NHATS incorporated tablet-based tests of distance and near visual acuity and contrast sensitivity with habitual correction.

Main Outcomes and Measures

National prevalence of impairment in presenting distance visual acuity (>0.30 logMAR, Snellen equivalent worse than 20/40), presenting near visual acuity (>0.30 logMAR, Snellen equivalent worse than 20/40), and contrast sensitivity (>1 SD below the sample mean). Prevalence estimates stratified by age and socioeconomic and demographic data were calculated.

Results

In the 2021 round 11 NHATS sample, there were 3817 respondents. After excluding respondents who did not complete the sample person interview (n = 429) and those with missing vision data (n = 362), there were 3026 participants. Of these, 29.5% (95% CI, 27.3%-31.8%) were 71 to 74 years old, and 55.2% (95% CI, 52.8%-57.6%) were female respondents. The prevalence of VI in US adults 71 years and older was 27.8% (95% CI, 25.5%-30.1%). Distance and near visual acuity and contrast sensitivity impairments were prevalent in 10.3% (95% CI, 8.9%-11.7%), 22.3% (95% CI, 20.3%-24.3%), and 10.0% (95% CI, 8.5%-11.4%), respectively. Older age, less education, and lower income were associated with all types of VI. A higher prevalence of near visual acuity and contrast sensitivity impairments was associated with non-White race and Hispanic ethnicity.

Conclusions and Relevance

More than 1 in 4 US adults 71 years and older had VI in 2021, higher than prior estimates. Differences in the prevalence of VI by socioeconomic and demographic factors were observed. These data could inform public health planning.
A General Vapor‐Induced Coating Approach for Layer‐controlled Organic Single Crystals
Authors: Chen Shengnan , Liu Zhaoxin , Long Haoran , Yang Jiaxin , Li Zheng , Cai Zheren , Qu Zhiyuan , Shao Lujing , Shi Xiaosong , Jiang Lang , Xu Wei , Dong Huanli , Wei Zhongming , Qiao Yali , Song Yanlin
Published: January 2023

2D organic semiconductor crystals (2D OSCs) are vital for high‐performance electronic and optoelectronic devices owing to their unique material merits. However, it is still challenging to fabricate high‐quality and large‐scale ultrathin 2D OSCs with controllable molecular layers due to the disordered molecular deposition and uncontrollable mass transport in solution‐processing fabrication. Here, a vapor‐induced meniscus modulating strategy for preparing unidirectional and stable Marangoni flow to guide contactless meniscus evolution is reported, which ensures uniform mass transport and ordered molecular deposition to achieve high‐quality ultrathin 2D OSCs. Both the surface tension difference and the substrate wettability are critical to meniscus formation, which results in various meniscus deformation states and film morphologies. Based on the optimized vapor‐solvent system, ultrathin 2D OSCs of C8‐BTBT with precise layer definition are prepared controllably. The discrepancies in liquid film height and solute concentration are decisive in controlling the molecular scale thickness ranging from mono to a few layers. Moreover, the layer‐dependent electronic and optoelectronic properties of the ultrathin films are systematically investigated. Notably, high‐performance polarization‐sensitive solar‐blind photodetectors are achieved with a dichroic ratio of photocurrent up to 2.26, and the corresponding polarimetric image sensor exhibits superior solar‐blind polarization imaging capability thanks to the high crystalline quality.
Progress of Microfluidic Hydrogel‐Based Scaffolds and Organ‐on‐Chips for the Cartilage Tissue Engineering
Authors: Tolabi Hamidreza , Davari Niyousha , Khajehmohammadi Mehran , Malektaj Haniyeh , Nazemi Katayoun , Vahedi Samaneh , Ghalandari Behafarid , Reis Rui L. , Ghorbani Farnaz , Oliveira Joaquim Miguel
Published: January 2023

Cartilage degeneration is among the fundamental reasons behind disability and pain across the globe. Numerous approaches have been employed to treat cartilage diseases. Nevertheless, none have shown acceptable outcomes in the long run. In this regard, the convergence of tissue engineering and microfabrication principles can allow developing more advanced microfluidic technologies, thus offering attractive alternatives to current treatments and traditional constructs used in tissue engineering applications. Herein, the current developments involving microfluidic hydrogel‐based scaffolds, promising structures for cartilage regeneration, ranging from hydrogels with microfluidic channels to hydrogels prepared by the microfluidic devices, that enable therapeutic delivery of cells, drugs, and growth factors, as well as cartilage‐related organ‐on‐chips are reviewed. Thereafter, cartilage anatomy and types of damages, and present treatment options are briefly overviewed. Various hydrogels are introduced, and the advantages of microfluidic hydrogel‐based scaffolds over traditional hydrogels are thoroughly discussed. Furthermore, available technologies for fabricating microfluidic hydrogel‐based scaffolds and microfluidic chips are presented. The preclinical and clinical applications of microfluidic hydrogel‐based scaffolds in cartilage regeneration and the development of cartilage‐related microfluidic chips over time are further explained. The current developments, recent key challenges, and attractive prospects that should be considered so as to develop microfluidic systems in cartilage repair are highlighted.
Colloid Electrolyte with Changed Li+ Solvation Structure for High‐Power, Low‐Temperature Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Xiaoyan , Yang Le , Ahmad Niaz , Ran Leguan , Shao Ruiwen , Yang Wen
Published: January 2023

Lithium‐ion batteries currently suffer from low capacity and fast degradation under fast charging and/or low temperatures. In this work, a colloid liquid electrolyte (CLE) is designed, where the trace amount of lithium thiocarbonate (LTC) colloids in commercial carbonate electrolyte (1 m LiPF6 in ethylene carbonate/dimethyl carbonate) not only boosts up σLi+ but also improves the Li+ transfer kinetics at LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) cathode/electrolyte interface. The competitive coordination of LTCs with anions and solvents facilitates the dissociation of lithium salts and Li+ decoupling, dramatically enhancing the σLi+ (15 to 4.5 mS cm−1 at 30 and −20 °C, respectively); meanwhile, the desolvation process is accelerated. It demonstrates that LTC colloids induce an ≈5 nm ultrathin Li2CO3‐rich cathode electrolyte interface and infuse the grain boundary of NCA particles, enhancing interfacial Li+ transfer and inhibiting the particle cracks during cycling. Consequently, the Li||CLE||NCA battery delivers a maximum capacity of 135 mAh g−1 at a 10 C rate with 80% retention after 2000 cycles. Moreover, the fast‐charging capability under a sub‐zero environment is proved (122 mAh g−1 with 90% retention after 400 cycles at 2 C and −10 °C). This strategy for tailoring the interfacial charge transfer appears generalizable and can practically be extended to next‐generation energy‐storage systems.
Stabilizing Single‐Atomic Pt by Forming PtFe Bonds for Efficient Diboration of Alkynes
Authors: Miao Xiang , Chen Wenxing , Lv Shuning , Li Anran , Li Yanhong , Zhang Qinghua , Yue Yonghai , Zhao Hewei , Liu Limin , Guo Shaojun , Guo Lin
Published: January 2023

Precisely tailoring the oxidation state of single‐atomic metal in heterogeneous catalysis is an efficient way to stabilize the single‐atomic site and promote their activity, but realizing this approach remains a grand challenge to date. Herein, a class of stable single‐atomic catalysts with well‐tuned oxidation state of Pt by forming PtFe atomic bonds is reported, which are supported by defective Fe2O3 nanosheets on reduced graphene oxide (PFARFNs). These as‐synthesized materials can greatly enhance the catalytic activity, stability, and selectivity for the diboration of alkynes. The PFARFNs exhibit high conversion of 99% at 100 °C with an outstanding turnover frequency (TOF) of 545 h−1, and a relatively high conversion of 58% at room temperature (25 °C) with a TOF of 310 h−1, which has been hardly achieved previously. Through both experimental and theoretical investigation, it is demonstrated that the fast electron transfer from Fe to Pt in Fe–Pt–O atomic sites in PFARFNs can not only stabilize the single‐atomic Pt, but also significantly improve their catalytic activity.
Bone health in ambulatory male patients with chronic obstructive airway disease – A case control study from India
Authors: Jeeyavudeen Mohammad Sadiq , Hansdek Samuel George , Thomas Nihal , Balamugesh Thangakunam , Gowri Mahasampath , Paul Thomas V.
Published: January 2023

Objective

Chronic obstructive airway disease (COPD) is characterized by airflow limitation due to airway and/or alveolar abnormalities with significant extra‐pulmonary manifestations. Bone health impairment is an extra‐pulmonary complication of COPD which is less well studied in India. Moreover, it can contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. Hence, we aim to estimate the prevalence of osteoporosis and metabolic parameters of adverse bone health in patients with COPD.

Methods

In this case control study, male subjects aged 40–70 years with COPD attending the respiratory outpatient clinic in a tertiary care hospital were recruited over a period of 2 years and the control population were derived from the historical cohort who were apparently healthy with no obvious diseases. Metabolic parameters of bone health measured from fasting blood samples were calcium, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, phosphorous, parathormone, creatinine, 25‐hydroxy vitamin D, and testosterone. Bone mineral density (BMD) was estimated using DXA scan and the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria was used to categorize into osteoporosis, osteopenia, and normal BMD based on the T‐score at femoral neck, lumbar spine and distal forearm. Pulmonary function tests and 6 minute walk test were performed if they had not been done in the previous 3 months. The associations of COPD with osteoporosis were analyzed using linear regression analysis and effect size are presented as beta with 95% confidence interval.

Results

Of the 67 participants with COPD enrolled in the study, osteoporosis was present in 61% (41/67) and osteopenia in an additional 33% (22/67) of the cases, which was higher when compared to the control population (osteoporosis 20% [50/252] and osteopenia 58% [146/252]). In regression modeling, there was a trend toward adverse bone health with advanced age, low body mass index, low forced expiratory volume in 1 second and testosterone deficiency in COPD.

Conclusion

Individuals with COPD have a substantially higher prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia, up to almost twice that of the general population, with a significant number demonstrating at least one parameter of adverse metabolic bone health on assessment. Hence, bone health assessment should be a part of comprehensive COPD care to prevent adverse consequences due to poor bone health.
Synthesis and evaluation of cardamonin derivatives as antiproliferative agents to human cancer cells
Authors: Selvaraj Baskar , Lee Sang Hyuk , Sang Nguyen Qui Ngoc , Lee Heesu , Lee Jae Wook
Published: January 2023

Twenty novel cardamonin derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for antiproliferative activity against four cancer cell lines (HT‐29, DLD‐1, MDA‐MB‐231, and HepG2). Among the derivatives, SWA2 showed the most potent effects with an IC50 value of 4.43–11.0 μM against three cancer cell lines except for HepG2. Further investigation showed that SWA2 induced cancer cell death by apoptosis. Flow cytometry analysis showed that SWA2 treatment increased the ratio of apoptotic and dead cells. Further western blot analysis revealed that SWA2 treatment increased cleaved PARP. In summary, SWA2 can be utilized as a lead structure for anticancer therapy.
A case report of biallelic CHEK2 heterozygous variant presenting with breast cancer
Authors: Soleimani Tahereh , Bourdon Corrie , Davis Jacquelyn , Fortes Thais
Published: January 2023

Pathogenic germline variants in the CHEK2 gene have been shown to cause a moderate increased risk of breast cancer. Here, we present a striking CHEK2 family with a biallelic carrier of two frameshift pathogenic variants, to draw attention and to encourage a comprehensive genetic and cancer risk education for biallelic carriers of CHEK2 pathogenic variants.
Goblet cell adenocarcinoma of the ascending colon: An underrecognized diagnostic pitfall
Authors: Limaiem Faten , Omrani Sahir , Hajri Mohamed
Published: January 2023

Goblet cell adenocarcinomas (GCA) are infrequent neoplasms of the digestive system that exhibit both mucinous and neuroendocrine differentiation. They predominate in the appendix and rarely involve the colon. Herein, the authors report a case of GCA involving the ascending colon in a 60‐year‐old woman who presented with severe anemia.
Ligand Effect on Physicochemical Properties of Ionic Liquid
Authors: Rout Alok , Mishra Satyabrata
Published: January 2023

In the solvent extraction process, the importance of an extractant (or ligand) and a diluent is inferred from their respective physicochemical properties. We have brought together all the recent results reported on the mixture of different extractants dissolved in a well‐known ionic liquid diluent: 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide ([C4mim][NTf2]) in the form of a review and aimed to emphasize the role of ligand polarity and structure on the physicochemical properties of an ionic liquid (IL) diluent. Some of the most important properties such as dynamic viscosity (η), absolute density (
), energy of activation (Ea), coefficient of thermal expansion (α), phase separation time (PST), refractive index (n), etc., have been discussed meticulously in the paper. The effect of ligand structure on the aggregation behaviour of IL phase and the physicochemical properties of gamma irradiated solvent phases containing different ligands and their solution with IL phase also have been deliberated in detail.
Industry Perspective on Therapeutic Peptide Drug–Drug Interaction Assessments During Drug Development: A European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations White Paper
Authors: Säll Carolina , Argikar Upendra , Fonseca Kari , Hilgendorf Constanze , Lopes Filipe , Riedel Jens , Schiller Hilmar , Sonesson Anders , Umehara Kenichi , Wang Kai
Published: January 2023

Drug–drug interaction (DDI) assessments are well defined in health authority guidelines for small molecule drugs, and US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) draft guidance is now available for therapeutic proteins. However, there are currently no regulatory guidelines outlining DDI assessments for therapeutic peptides, which poses significant uncertainty and challenges during drug development for this heterogenous class of molecules. A cross‐industry peptide DDI working group consisting of experts from 10 leading companies was formed under the sponsorship of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations. We aimed to capture the range of DDI studies undertaken for peptide drugs by (i) anonymously surveying relevant companies involved in peptide drug development to better understand DDI study type/timing currently performed and (ii) compiling a database containing in vitro / clinical DDI data from submission packages for recently approved peptide drugs. Our analyses highlight significant gaps and uncertainty in the field. For example, the reported timing of in vitro peptide DDI studies, if performed, vary substantially across responding companies from early research to phase III. Nearly all in vitro cytochrome P450 / transporter inhibition studies reported in the survey were negative. For the few positive hits reported, no clinical follow‐up studies were performed, questioning the clinical relevance of these findings. Furthermore, available submission packages reveal DDI likelihood is low for peptides >2 kDa, making it reasonable to adopt a risk‐based approach during drug development for larger peptides. By benchmarking the landscape of peptide DDI activities across the industry, we set the stage for future discussions with health authorities on harmonizing peptide DDI approaches.
The Current State of Single‐Cell Proteomics Data Analysis
Authors: Vanderaa Christophe , Gatto Laurent
Published: January 2023

Sound data analysis is essential to retrieve meaningful biological information from single‐cell proteomics experiments. This analysis is carried out by computational methods that are assembled into workflows, and their implementations influence the conclusions that can be drawn from the data. In this work, we explore and compare the computational workflows that have been used over the last four years and identify a profound lack of consensus on how to analyze single‐cell proteomics data. We highlight the need for benchmarking of computational workflows and standardization of computational tools and data, as well as carefully designed experiments. Finally, we cover the current standardization efforts that aim to fill the gap, list the remaining missing pieces, and conclude with lessons learned from the replication of published single‐cell proteomics analyses. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
An emerging era of computational cytology
Authors: Dey Pranab , Bansal Baneet , Saini Tarunpreet
Published: January 2023

Background

The significant advancement in digital imaging, data management, advanced computational power, and artificial neural network have an immense impact on the field of cytology. The amalgamation of these areas has generated a newer discipline known as computational cytology.

Aims and objective

In To discuss the various important aspects of computational cytology.

Materials and methods

We reviewed the different studies published in English during the last few years on computational cytology.

Result

Computational cytology is a newer and emerging discipline in pathology that deals with the patient's meta‐data and digital image data to make a mathematical model to produce diagnostic interpretations and predictions. The role of the cytologist is now changing from a simple observational scientist and slide interpreter to a dynamic and integrated multi‐parametric prediction‐based scientist.

Conclusion

In the current stage, the cytologist must understand the situation and should have a vision of the complete scenario on computational cytology.
MicroRNA‐155‐5p in serum derived‐exosomes promotes ischaemia–reperfusion injury by reducing CypD ubiquitination by NEDD4
Authors: Hu Chenkai , Liao Junyu , Huang Ruiyan , Su Qiang , He Lei
Published: January 2023

Aims

Recovery of blood flow is a therapeutic approach for myocardial infarction but paradoxically induces injury to the myocardium. Exosomes (exos) are pivotal mediators for intercellular communication that can be released by different cells and are involved in cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to explore the possible effects and mechanisms of miR‐155‐5p loaded by serum‐derived exos in myocardial infarction reperfusion injury (MIRI).

Methods and results

Exos were isolated from mouse serum after induction of ischaemia reperfusion (I/R) and injected into I/R‐treated mice to assess cardiac function, infarction size, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Primary cardiomyocytes were transfected with miR‐155‐5p inhibitor before treatment with oxygen–glucose deprivation and re‐oxygenation (OGD/R) and exos derived from the serum of I/R‐treated mice (I/R‐Exos), in which Bcl‐2, Bax, and cleaved‐caspase‐3 levels were detected. The interactions among miR‐155‐5p, NEDD4, and CypD were evaluated. miR‐155‐5p level was evidently increased in I/R‐Exos than in exos from the serum of sham‐operated mice (P < 0.05). In comparison with the I/R group, the I/R‐Exos + I/R group had increased infarct size, elevated miR‐155‐5p expression, and boosted apoptotic rate in mouse myocardium (P < 0.05). In mice treated with I/R‐Exos and I/R, miR‐155‐5p inhibition reduced cardiac infarct size and apoptosis (P < 0.05). NEDD4 was a target gene of miR‐155‐5p and promoted CypD ubiquitination. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was markedly increased in the miR‐155‐5p inhibitor + shNEDD4 + OGD/R group versus the miR‐155‐5p inhibitor + OGD/R group (P < 0.05), but decreased in the miR‐155‐5p inhibitor + shNEDD4 + shCypD + OGD/R group than in the miR‐155‐5p inhibitor + shNEDD4 + OGD/R group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

miR‐155‐5p in I/R‐Exos may facilitate MIRI by inhibiting CypD ubiquitination via targeting NEDD4.
CL‐HPWSR: Cross‐layer‐based energy efficient cluster head selection using hybrid particle swarm wild horse optimizer and stable routing in IoT‐enabled smart farming applications
Authors: Kumar Amandeep , Dhaliwal Balwinder Singh , Singh Damanpreet
Published: January 2023

In the recent days, the Internet of Things (IoT) has assumed a significant role in automized farming applications. The farmers can receive frequent information corresponding to the soil moisture, water used, humidity, temperature, moisture, etc., by utilizing actuators and sensor nodes. Various clustering techniques used in wireless sensor network (WSN) applications have achieved energy‐efficient results. However, IoT‐enabled smart farming (SF) applications require scalable networks and long‐distance communication. The existing clustering techniques cannot provide SF solutions, and work related to communication overhead, end‐to‐end delay, latency etc., has not been taken up exhaustively. Therefore, in this article, a cross‐layer‐based hybrid particle Swarm wild horse optimizer (PSWHO) and stable routing technique (CL‐HPWSR) is designed to minimize energy consumption, communication delay, latency etc. in SF applications. Initially, the network is designed to be Bi‐concentric Hexagons. The cross‐layer‐based optimal cluster head (CH) selection mechanism is designed using the hybrid optimization algorithm‐named PSWHO to mitigate excess energy consumption problems in WSN. While clustering, cross‐layer parameters from different layers such as physical, medium access control, and network are used to compute the probability of each sensor node. Moreover, the deep learning‐based routing algorithm extended deep golden eagle neural network (EDGENN) is introduced to explore the optimal route for transmitting the data. The performance of CL‐HPWSR is implemented in Matlab by focusing energy‐efficiency, computational‐efficiency and QoS‐efficiency factors. Finally, in comparison with state‐of‐the‐art‐based SF approaches such as CL‐IoT, FEEC‐IIR, BiHCLR, PSO‐ECHS, and PSO‐C, the CL‐HPWSR has performed better in terms of energy‐efficiency, QoS‐efficiency and computational‐efficiency.
Moxifloxacin as a contrast agent of two‐photon microscopic imaging for detecting colorectal diseases
Authors: Chen Yingtong , Xu Xiaoyi , Wang Min , Wang Xiang , Wang Yan , Zhang Yong , Zhao Lili , Fan Zhining , Liu Li
Published: January 2023

Since two‐photon microscopy (TPM) can obtain high‐resolution images at cellular and subcellular level and moxifloxacin has multiphoton fluorescence characteristic, our study aimed to explore the feasibility and diagnostic value of moxifloxacin‐assisted TPM in different human colorectal diseases, including low‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN), high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN) and cancer tissues. Excitation power for TPM imaging with and without moxifloxacin was (2.74 ± 0.16) mW and (0.28 ± 0.02) mW, respectively (p < 0.05). Whether labeled with moxifloxacin or not, images of normal, LGIN, HGIN and cancer tissues all reached the strongest signal at 30 μm from the mucosa. Normalized fluorescence intensity of TPM images with moxifloxacin was approximately 10 times stronger than that without moxifloxacin. Fluorescence signal was differed significantly in normal, LGIN, HGIN and cancer tissues with or without moxifloxacin (p < 0.05). Besides, moxifloxacin‐assisted TPM could present variant tissue features with different colorectal diseases, such as the crypt opening, glandular structure, adjacent glandular space and fluorescence distribution.
Excited‐state nonadiabatic dynamics simulations on the heptazine and adenine in a water environment: A mini review
Authors: Ullah Naeem , Chen Shunwei , Zhang Ruiqin
Published: January 2023

Studying the excited‐state decay process is crucial for materials research because what happens to the excited states determines how effective the materials are for many applications, such as photoluminescence and photocatalysis. The high computational cost, however, limits the use of high‐accuracy theoretical approaches for analyzing research systems containing a significant number of atoms. Time‐dependent density functional theory is a practical approach to investigate the photorelaxation processes in these systems, as demonstrated in the studies of the excited‐state decays of heptazine‐water clusters and adenine in water described in this review. Here, we highlight the importance of conical intersections in the excited‐state decay processes of these systems using the aforementioned examples. In the heptazine‐water and adenine‐water systems, these intersections are associated with the photocatalytic water splitting reaction, caused by a barrierless reaction called water to adenine electron‐driven proton transfer. We expect the result would be helpful for researching the excited‐state decays of graphitic carbon nitride materials and DNA nucleotides.
Psychological empowerment for the future of work: Evidence from Portugal
Authors: Oliveira Margarida , Andrade José Ricardo , Ratten Vanessa , Santos Eulália
Published: January 2023

In the competitive global marketplace, it is becoming important for organizations to empower employees for productivity reasons. One of the organizational empowerment models with greater support and consistency in the various studies in which it has been used is Spreitzer's Model of Psychological Empowerment in the Workplace, published in 1995. The model is composed of four dimensions that allow the measurement of the components of meaning, competence, self‐determination and the impact of work on individual empowerment. The present study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties, in the Portuguese context, of the referred model. After the translation and adaptation of the psychological empowerment scale, the questionnaire was applied to a sample of 545 workers from Portuguese industrial organizations. The results of the application of structural equation modeling allow identifying the same components defined by the Spreitzer model, so it can be considered a reliable and valid instrument to measure organizational empowerment in the Portuguese context. However, we consider that complementary studies are necessary to analyze the psychometric properties of the scale and to further advance the research. The results obtained allow us to affirm that empowerment will be a basic strategy to improve the organizational transformations that companies constantly face. It is therefore important for Portuguese organizations to analyze the level of psychological empowerment of their employees, in order to find solutions to problems such as turnover, talent attraction, performance, work demotivation and improve human resource management practices. This is particularly important following the COVID‐19 pandemic in which the psychology of employees was tested due to working from home and social distancing requirements.
Preparing for 2023—leaner times for human services agencies
Authors: Jelinek Tammy
Published: January 2023

During the pandemic, human services organizations received millions of dollars of relief funding to aid in their mission. Those funds are evaporating as they are being used for critical services and care. However, human services agencies need to prepare for the future: as federal relief funds dry up, agencies should consider drafting a strategic plan for the next three to five years. The process for receiving federal funds is too slow to match market conditions or pressing community needs. In addition, retirement, burnout and intense labor competition have created a restricted labor market; recruiting and retaining top talent is the number one issue facing human services agencies. There will be a drop off soon, and agencies have to creatively approach problems coming in 2023.
Denser and greener cities: Green interventions to achieve both urban density and nature
Authors: McDonald Robert I. , Aronson Myla F. J. , Beatley Timothy , Beller Erin , Bazo Micaela , Grossinger Robin , Jessup Kelsey , Mansur Andressa V. , Puppim de Oliveira José Antonio , Panlasigui Stephanie , Burg Joe , Pevzner Nicholas , Shanahan Danielle , Stoneburner Lauren , Rudd Andrew , Spotswood Erica
Published: January 2023

Green spaces in urban areas—like remnant habitat, parks, constructed wetlands, and street trees—supply multiple benefits.

Many studies show green spaces in and near urban areas play important roles harbouring biodiversity and promoting human well‐being. On the other hand, evidence suggests that greater human population density enables compact, low‐carbon cities that spare habitat conversion at the fringes of expanding urban areas, while also allowing more walkable and livable cities. How then can urban areas have abundant green spaces as well as density?

In this paper, we review the empirical evidence for the relationships between urban density, nature, and sustainability. We also present a quantitative analysis of data on urban tree canopy cover and open space for United States large urbanized areas, as well as an analysis of non‐US Functional Urban Areas in OECD countries.

We found that there is a negative correlation between population density and these green spaces. For Functional Urban Areas in the OECD, a 10% increase in density is associated with a 2.9% decline in tree cover. We argue that there are competing trade‐offs between the benefits of density for sustainability and the benefits of nature for human well‐being. Planners must decide an appropriate density by choosing where to be on this trade‐off curve, taking into account city‐specific urban planning goals and context.

However, while the negative correlation between population density and tree cover is modest at the level of US urbanized areas (R2 = 0.22), it is weak at the US Census block level (R2 = 0.05), showing that there are significant brightspots, neighbourhoods that manage to have more tree canopy than would be expected based upon their level of density. We then describe techniques for how urban planners and designers can create more brightspots, identifying a typology of urban forms and listing green interventions appropriate for each form. We also analyse policies that enable these green interventions illustrating them with the case studies of Curitiba and Singapore.

We conclude that while there are tensions between density and urban green spaces, an urban world that is both green and dense is possible, if society chooses to take advantage of the available green interventions and create it.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
An acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell‐based preclinical assay revealed functional differences between commercial brands of L‐asparaginase administered in Colombia
Authors: Rincón Reyes Diego Fernando , Padilla Agudelo José Luis , Pinilla da Silva Andrea Isabel , Ortega Quintero Diana Marcela , Valencia Libreros Diana Lorena , Contreras Acosta Agustín Darío , Gutiérrez Triana José Arturo
Published: January 2023

Background

L‐asparaginase (L‐ASNase) is an essential component of chemotherapy strategies due to its differential action between normal and leukemic cells. Recently, concerns about the efficiency of commercial formulations administered in developing countries have been reported, and available methods have limitations for directly determining the quality of the formulation of the medications.

Procedure

We developed a cell‐based protocol to analyze the activity of different L‐ASNase formulations used in Colombia to induce apoptosis of the NALM‐6 cell line after 24, 48, and 72 hours, using flow cytometry. Then we compared results and determined the statistically significant differences.

Results

Three statistically different groups, ranging from full to no activity against leukemic cells, using 0.05, 0.5, and 5.0 IU/ml concentrations, were identified. Group 1 (asparaginase codified [ASA]2–4) exhibited very low to no activity against B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) cells. Group 2 (ASA6) exhibited intermediate‐level activity, and group 3 (ASA1 and ASA5) exhibited high activity.

Conclusions

Differences found between the therapeutic formulations of L‐ASNase distributed in Colombia raise concerns about the quality of the treatment administered to patients in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Therefore, we recommend a preclinical evaluation of formulations of L‐ASNase in order to prevent therapeutical impacts on the outcome of ALL patients.
Extinction Imaging Diagnostics for In Situ Quantification of Soot within Explosively Generated Fireballs
Authors: Saltzman Ashley J. , Brown Alex D. , Wan Kevin , Manin Julien L. , Pickett Lyle M. , Welliver Marc C. , Guildenbecher Daniel R.
Published: January 2023

Fireballs produced from the detonation of high explosives often contain particulates primarily composed of various phases of carbon soot. The transport and concentration of these particulates is of interest for model validation and emission characterization. This work proposes ultra‐high‐speed imaging techniques to observe a fireball's structure and optical depth. An extinction‐based diagnostic applied at two wavelengths indicates that extinction scales inversely with wavelength, consistent with particles in the Rayleigh limit and dimensionless extinction coefficients which are independent of wavelength. Within current confidence bounds, the extinction‐derived soot mass concentrations agree with expectations based upon literature reported soot yields. Results also identify areas of high uncertainty where additional work is recommended.
A humanized anti‐cocaine mAb antagonizes the cardiovascular effects of cocaine in rats
Authors: Koch Sheryl E. , Marckel Jordan A. , Rubinstein Jack , Norman Andrew B.
Published: January 2023

The recombinant monoclonal anti‐cocaine antibody, h2E2, sequesters cocaine in plasma increasing concentrations more than 10‐fold. The increased levels of cocaine in the plasma could have detrimental peripheral effects, particularly on the cardiovascular system. We investigated the duration and magnitude of the effect of cocaine on the rat heart, and if h2E2 could antagonize that effect. Echocardiography was used to evaluate cardiac function under isoflurane anesthesia, while a tail‐cuff was used to measure blood pressure. Cocaine was delivered intravenously and the rats were continuously monitored for a total of 45 min. Echocardiography measurements were recorded every 5 min and blood pressure measurements were recorded throughout the duration of the experiment using 30‐s cycles. ECG recordings were taken simultaneously with the echocardiography measurements. An increase in ejection fraction was seen after the cocaine push with the maximum change occurring at 25 min. Treatment with h2E2 1 h before the cocaine push did not have any effect on cardiac parameters. Subsequent cocaine treatment had no effect on the ejection fraction, indicating that the antibody‐bound cocaine does not affect the heart. This antagonism of cocaine's effects was greatly decreased after 1 week and entirely absent after 1 month. Cocaine in the presence of h2E2 is pharmacologically inert and h2E2 may have additional clinical utility for reversing cocaine effects on the cardiovascular system.
Multioctagonal Ring Metamaterial with Broadband Microwave Absorption at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Qiao Mengke , Li Xiangcheng , Liao Zhangqi , Chen Pingan , Zhu Yingli
Published: January 2023

Excellent thermostable performance is the basis for the further development of microwave absorbing materials in the field of military stealth. Herein, a high‐temperature metamaterial absorber (HMA) with high impedance patterns (multi‐octagonal‐rings), two quartz (SiO2) layers, and a metallic ground film is designed and simulated. The optimal structural parameters are obtained by optimizing the circuit parameters and the size of HMA. The interaction of electric and magnetic resonance in multioctagonal rings results in a wide absorption bandwidth and excellent absorption performance. The experimental results show that the structure has good impedance matching performance, and the effective absorption bandwidth (−10 dB) (EAB) of the structure can reach 10.6 GHz from room temperature to 700 °C under the combined effect of resonance loss and ohmic loss.
Punching shear behavior of flat slabs supported by elongated columns with openings
Authors: Kormošová Ľudmila , Halvonik Jaroslav
Published: January 2023

The present paper deals with the punching shear behavior of flat slabs with openings adjacent to the elongated column. The results of an experimental program that included testing six full‐scale slabs with a thickness of 200 mm, without transverse reinforcement tested under axis‐symmetric conditions, are discussed. One reference slab specimen without openings and five slabs with various arrangements of two openings with the same dimensions were tested until their failure. The results obtained were compared to punching resistances assessed using design equations introduced in current Eurocode 2, ACI 318‐19 and in the second generation of Eurocode 2, and to the original CSCT model developed by Muttoni. The tests confirmed the concentration of shear stresses at column edges and premature punching failure. Significant differences on the model's safety level were observed in different positions of the openings and in each design model. Best results were achieved with models in which the reduction of control perimeter length was based on the parallel projection of the openings.
Performance evaluation of jute fiber‐reinforced recycled aggregate concrete: Strength and durability aspects
Authors: Jamil Kamran , Shabbir Faisal , Raza Ali
Published: January 2023

Nowadays, recycled coarse aggregates (RCA) are playing a major role in sustainable construction as compared to natural coarse aggregates (NCA). Researchers use fibers and cementitious materials to improve the mechanical properties of concrete. Nowadays, RCA are playing a major role in a sustainable environment as compared to NCA. This article examines the combined effect of jute fiber (JF) and RCA on the durability and mechanical properties of concrete. A total of 15 concrete mixes are prepared, in which three categories of concrete mixes are prepared by utilizing 100%RCA, 50%RCA, and 0%RCA and in each mix, 0.60%, 0.45%, 0.30%, 0.15%, and 0% of JF by volume of concrete are used. Mechanical properties of concrete are analyzed by flexural strength, split tensile strength, and compressive strength tests whereas durability properties of concrete are analyzed by sorptivity coefficient, porosity, and chloride penetration tests. The experimental results depict that smaller dosages of JF (0.15%) have a positive effect on the mechanical properties of concrete with RCA whereas greater dosages of JF (≥0.30%) have an adverse effect on mechanical concrete properties with RCA. The mechanical properties are increased by more than 4% in the case of a lower percentage of JF. The durability of concrete shows a negative impact on concrete with the increasing percentages of RCA and JF in all types of the mix. The durability of concrete is more affected in the case of higher dosages of JF.
Understanding the enhanced reactivity of strained intramolecular Frustrated Lewis Pairs
Authors: Portela Susana , Fernández Israel
Published: January 2023

The poorly understood factors controlling the enhanced reactivity of strained intramolecular frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) having a rigid biphenylene tether have been quantitatively explored in detail by means of computational methods. With the help of the activation strain model of reactivity and the energy decomposition analysis methods, the challenging allene activation reaction has been selected and compared to the analogous process mediated by a related intramolecular FLP having a more flexible tether, which is significantly less reactive. In addition, the influence of the nature of the Lewis acid atom on the reactivity of the strained FLP has been considered as well showing that the reactivity steadily decreases when going down in group 13.
Multiparameter single-cell proteomic technologies give new insights into the biology of ovarian tumors
Authors: Funingana Ionut-Gabriel , Bedia Jacob S. , Huang Ying-Wen , Delgado Gonzalez Antonio , Donoso Kenyi , Gonzalez Veronica D. , Brenton James D. , Ashworth Alan , Fantl Wendy J.
Published: January 2023

High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. Its diagnosis at advanced stage compounded with its excessive genomic and cellular heterogeneity make curative treatment challenging. Two critical therapeutic challenges to overcome are carboplatin resistance and lack of response to immunotherapy. Carboplatin resistance results from diverse cell autonomous mechanisms which operate in different combinations within and across tumors. The lack of response to immunotherapy is highly likely to be related to an immunosuppressive HGSOC tumor microenvironment which overrides any clinical benefit. Results from a number of studies, mainly using transcriptomics, indicate that the immune tumor microenvironment (iTME) plays a role in carboplatin response. However, in patients receiving treatment, the exact mechanistic details are unclear. During the past decade, multiplex single-cell proteomic technologies have come to the forefront of biomedical research. Mass cytometry or cytometry by time-of-flight, measures up to 60 parameters in single cells that are in suspension. Multiplex cellular imaging technologies allow simultaneous measurement of up to 60 proteins in single cells with spatial resolution and interrogation of cell–cell interactions. This review suggests that functional interplay between cell autonomous responses to carboplatin and the HGSOC immune tumor microenvironment could be clarified through the application of multiplex single-cell proteomic technologies. We conclude that for better clinical care, multiplex single-cell proteomic technologies could be an integral component of multimodal biomarker development that also includes genomics and radiomics. Collection of matched samples from patients before and on treatment will be critical to the success of these efforts.
Endoscope-assisted resection of a Samii type B jugular foramen schwannoma
Authors: Zhang Xin , Xu Hao , Hua Wei , Zhu Wei
Published: January 2023

Background

Tumors involving the jugular foramen region are challenging for surgical resection. With the development of endoscope in the past decade, surgical approaches assisted by endoscope have been widely emerged in the treatment of skull base tumors.

Methods

Herein, we report a case of jugular foramen schwannoma (Samii type B). Surgical resection was applied via a suboccipital retrosigmoidal craniotomy using surgical microscope assisted by endoscope. Gross total resection was achieved. And the patient recovered without obvious neurological deficits.

Conclusions

Samii type B schwannomas involving the jugular foramen is approachable by endoscope-assisted surgery.
Volatile interactions between specific undamaged barley cultivars affect aphid feeding behavior and performance
Authors: Kheam Sokha , Markovic Dimitrije , Rubene Diana , Ith Saveng , Ninkovic Velemir
Published: January 2023

Recent studies have demonstrated that cultivar mixtures can reduce aphid plant acceptance and population development. It is still unknown as to which underlying mechanisms may contribute to this phenomenon. We investigated the effects of volatile interactions between undamaged barley cultivars on aphid feeding behavior and performance in the laboratory. Spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivar Salome was exposed to volatiles from Fairytale (SeF), Anakin (SeA), or clean air (Se0). We used an electrical penetration graph to test the effect of exposure to neighbor volatiles on the feeding behavior and performance of bird cherry-oat aphids (Rhopalosiphum padi L.). We also assessed aphid relative growth rate, intrinsic rate of increase, and development time on exposed and unexposed Salome plants. Aphids spent significantly longer time on epidermis and mesophyll plant tissues on SeF than Se0, and no difference was observed between SeA and Se0. Significant decreases in the duration of phloem ingestion and phloem sustained ingestion were recorded in SeF showing that volatile-induced effects cause difficulty for aphids to feed. However, no differences in these variables were detected between SeA and Se0. We also observed reduced aphid relative growth rate and intrinsic rate of increase on SeF compared to Se0 and SeA. Our study demonstrated that, in a specific combination, exposure of one barley cultivar to volatiles from another one can change aphid feeding behavior and performance, probably due to changes in host plant properties/quality. Our results provide an insightful explanation of mechanisms responsible for the reduced aphid population development previously observed in the field.
The discursive resilience of university rankings
Authors: Hamann Julian , Ringel Leopold
Published: January 2023

If there is one thing all university rankings have in common, it is that they are the target of widespread criticism. This article takes the many challenges university rankings are facing as its point of departure and asks how they navigate their hostile environment. The analysis proceeds in three steps. First, we unveil two modes of ranking critique, one drawing attention to negative effects, the other to methodological shortcomings. Second, we explore how rankers respond to these challenges, showing that they either deflect criticism with a variety of defensive responses or that they respond confidently by drawing attention to the strengths of university rankings. In the last step, we examine mutual engagements between rankers and critics that are based on the entwinement of methodological critique and confident responses. While the way rankers respond to criticism generally explains how rankings continue to flourish, it is precisely the ongoing conversation with critics that facilitates what we coin the discursive resilience of university rankings. The prevalence of university rankings is, in other words, a product of the mutual discursive work of their proponents and opponents.