bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short‐term estimations of PM10 concentration in the Middle Black Sea region based on grey prediction models
Authors: Aykaç Özen Hülya , Öbekcan Hamdi
Published: October 2023

The Middle Black Sea region has experienced severe air pollution, with a significant increase in particulate matter (PM) concentration due to a growth in population, financial activity, and an expansion of transportation in recent years. Therefore, the prediction of PM concentration has become a topic of great significance to reduce air pollution and assess the effects on public health. In this study, the grey prediction model (GM (1,1)), the discrete grey model (DGM (1,1)), and the grey Verhulst model (GVM (1,1)) were used to estimate the PM10 concentration of the cities Amasya, Çorum, Ordu, and Samsun in the Middle Black Sea region, for the period from 2022 to 2026. The accuracy of the GM (1,1), DGM (1,1), and GVM (1,1) models in fitting data was calculated using the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) value. Since three types of prediction models of MAPEs were less than 20%, they were considered a good value for prediction performance. Furthermore, the results showed that the PM10 concentrations of Amasya, Çorum, and Ordu showed a downward trend over the next 5 years. However, the GVM (1,1) model showed an upward trend in the yearly average PM10 concentration in Samsun. In conclusion, these models could be considered a reliable approach in early warning systems for emissions reduction and as a long‐term policy for managing air quality in the Middle Black Sea region.
Genetic and sporadic forms of tauopathies—TAU as a disease driver for the majority of patients but the minority of tauopathies
Authors: Zempel Hans
Published: October 2023

Ageing‐associated tauopathies like frontotemporal dementia (FTD), variants thereof (like progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), pick diseases (PiD), corticobasal degeneration (CBD)), and of course the most prevalent form of dementia, Alzheimer Disease (AD), are widely recognized forms of tauopathies. The list of tauopathies is expanding. We now include: (i) tauopathies where the disease cause or trigger is clearly either physical, such as in Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), and (ii) genetic diseases that result in tauopathy but have pathogenic genetic variants in genes not related to TAU. Examples of the latter are myotonic dystrophy Type 1 and Type 2 (DM1, DM2, due to pathogenic genetic variants in the genes DMPK and CNBP, respectively), Niemann–Pick Disease Type C (NPD, due to mutations in NPC1 or NPC2), Kufs Disease (CLN6), Christianson Syndrome (SLC9A6), familial forms of Parkinson Disease (PD), and many others. In terms of affected brain regions and cell types, intracellular distribution of TAU pathology/aggregates, age of disease onset, velocity of disease progression and spreading of TAU pathology, there is, however, little in common in most of these disease entities. Here, I reason that TAU/MAPT is causative for the minority of tauopathies (e.g., MAPT‐related FTD/PSP and Vacuolar Tauopathy (VCP)) and a critical mediator for others, like shown by overwhelming evidence for AD. However, TAU may also be a mere bystander or even protective in other settings. Improved understanding of rare tauopathies is necessary to develop specific treatments, but also to improve our understanding of the pathomechanistic role of TAU and to identify diseases that may profit from TAU‐based therapies.
Post‐quantum secure two‐party computing protocols against malicious adversaries
Authors: Huo Yachao , Zhao Zongqu , Qin Panke , Wang Shujing , Zheng Chengfu
Published: October 2023

Secure two‐party computation allows a pair of parties to compute a function together while keeping their inputs private. Ultimately, each party receives only its own correct output. In this paper, a post‐quantum secure two‐party computation protocol is proposed that can be used to effectively block malicious parties. The protocol solves the problems of traditional protocols based on garbled circuits, which are vulnerable to quantum attacks, high communication costs and low computational efficiency. The input garbled keys of the circuit constructor is structured as a Learning with Error (LWE) equation, enabling the circuit constructor to employ a zero‐knowledge proof that demonstrates the uniformity of inputs across all circuits.In the key transfer phase, an LWE‐based batch single‐choice cut‐and‐choose oblivious transfer is proposed to avoid selective failure attacks. In addition, the protocol employs a penalty mechanism to detect if the circuit constructor has generated an incorrect circuit. We have compared the communication overhead of this protocol with three other secure two‐party computation protocols based on Cut‐and‐Choose technology. The analytical results show that this protocol has the best error probability and is resilient to quantum attacks under the malicious adversary model. In addition, with appropriate parameters, the protocol is able to reduce its communication bandwidth by an average of 40.41%.
JOCP: A jointly optimized clustering protocol for industrial wireless sensor networks using double‐layer selection evolutionary algorithm
Authors: Wu Di , Yang Zhen , Li Tong , Liu Junrui
Published: October 2023

Industrial Wireless Sensor Networks (IWSNs) have gained significant popularity for their ability to improve plant productivity and production efficiency through self‐organization and rapid deployment. However, the challenge of achieving reliable and sustainable data transmission remains due to the large amount of heterogeneous data generated by large‐scale IWSNs. In this paper, we present a systematic approach that addresses this challenge by focusing on data transmission clustering strategies, optimal cluster head selection, and routing design. We propose a novel Jointly Optimized Clustering Protocol (JOCP), which enhances cluster head selection by considering multiple critical factors that impact the IWSN life cycle. JOCP incorporates two key modules: the many‐objective clustering model and the double‐layer selection evolutionary algorithm. Specifically, the many‐objective clustering model considers cluster head selection from different perspectives, including maximum node survival cycle, minimum node distance, minimum network overall energy consumption, and balanced cluster energy consumption, with the aim of extending the network life cycle. Additionally, the double‐layer selection evolutionary algorithm optimizes the many‐objective clustering model to select appropriate cluster heads. Through performance verification, we demonstrate that the JOCP protocol effectively enhances the network life cycle and increases the number of surviving nodes compared to baseline clustering algorithms. Our research provides a comprehensive solution to the challenges associated with reliable and sustainable data transmission in large‐scale IWSNs, highlighting the potential for improved performance in industrial applications.
Discrete spider monkey optimization algorithm for latency‐sensitive VNF deployment and resource allocation
Authors: Liu Xinran , Hou Yonghong , Liu Hongchen
Published: October 2023

The next‐generation networks are expected to support diverse latency‐sensitive services, that is, auto‐driving, telemedicine, and so on. Deploying these services in current hardware‐based networks faces significant challenges. The emergence of network function virtualization (NFV) and software defined network (SDN) makes network deployment flexible and agile. In order to meet the strict latency constraints, joint VNF deployment and resource allocation problems are needed. In this paper, we consider the resource‐delay interpendency and formulate the joint VNF deployment and resource allocation problems as linear programming (LP) problems. Discrete spider monkey optimization (DSMO) algorithm is proposed to solve this problem, which imitates spider monkeys' fission and fusion social behavior during foraging. The two‐phase decision update mechanism greatly increases the diversity of the spider monkey decision population and promotes the algorithm to perform a global search of the solution space. Evaluation results show that the proposed solutions achieve superior performance in terms of latency, CPU utilization and service acceptance rate.
The effect of physical and emotional partner violence exerted during pregnancy on prenatal attachment and depression levels in pregnant women
Authors: Alan Dikmen Hacer , Tetikçok Cevriye Ocaktan
Published: October 2023

Exposure of pregnant women to physical and emotional violence during pregnancy adversely affects the health of the mother and the fetus. This study aimed to assess the effects of emotional and physical partner violence on prenatal attachment and depression levels in pregnant women. Five‐hundred and ten pregnant women in the second and third trimesters were included in the study. A personal information form, the Epidemiological Research Center Depression Scale, and the prenatal attachment inventory (PAI) were used for data collection. Although 7.5% of the pregnant women were exposed to physical partner violence during pregnancy, 24.3% were exposed to emotional partner violence. Depression was observed in 86.9% of the pregnant women, whereas the mean PAI score was 37.29 ± 10.504. There was a statistically significant relationship between the pregnant women's exposure to physical (p = .046) and emotional partner violence (p < .001) and depression. In this study, it was determined that pregnant women's exposure to emotional partner violence poses a risk for depression during pregnancy (p < .002; odds ratio = .143). As professionals working with pregnant women, obstetricians and maternity nurses should inquire about the exposure of pregnant women to partner violence during antenatal follow‐ups.
Reporting racism in broadcast interview
Authors: Xie Yarong
Published: October 2023

This study examines invited reports of racism in broadcast interviews. Guided by discursive psychology (DP) and conversation analysis (CA), the investigation focuses on the interactional moments wherein the interviewee (is invited to) describe a racist incident. Expanding existing DP and CA research on complaints of racism, this analysis shows how reported speech is treated by speakers as an indispensable device in reproducing the incident and providing evidence for the racism reported. This investigation provides further evidence for how speakers treat reporting racism as a sensitive business. This is reflected in the interviewee's accounts as they begin by describing the circumstance of the incident, and the interviewer's collaboration in co‐constructing the interviewee's accounts and co‐managing the trajectory of the interview. Overall, the analysis spotlights how an auspicious environment for victims to talk about their experiences of racism is created and fostered at both institutional and interactional levels.
Effects of biased extrapolation on attitude extremity
Authors: Decker Kaleigh A. , Lord Charles G.
Published: October 2023

Previous research has shown that merely thinking about an attitude object can make both positive and negative attitudes more extreme. The present research explored whether a specific type of thought—extrapolating from known to unknown attributes—might make attitudes and behavioural intentions more extreme than reviewing known attributes. In three experiments, extrapolating from a social group's ‘known’ personality traits made positive and negative attitudes and behavioural intentions more extreme than reviewing those traits. This pattern of results occurred whether participants self‐generated extrapolations (Experiment 1) or rated the likelihood of frequently extrapolated traits (Experiment 2). Attitudes were also more extreme after extrapolating traits high versus low in cognitive relevance to known traits, regardless of trait positivity/negativity (Experiment 3). In all three experiments, the effect of biased trait extrapolation on attitude extremity was mediated by more extreme associations with the extrapolated group. The current findings are consistent with attitude theories that emphasize cognitive processes.
Gut microbiota and childhood malnutrition: Understanding the link and exploring therapeutic interventions
Authors: Zoghi Sevda , Sadeghpour Heravi Fatemah , Nikniaz Zeinab , Shirmohamadi Masoud , Moaddab Seyed Yaghoub , Ebrahimzadeh Leylabadlo Hamed
Published: October 2023

Childhood malnutrition is a metabolic condition that affects the physical and mental well‐being of children and leads to resultant disorders in maturity. The development of childhood malnutrition is influenced by a number of physiological and environmental factors including metabolic stress, infections, diet, genetic variables, and gut microbiota. The imbalanced gut microbiota is one of the main environmental risk factors that significantly influence host physiology and childhood malnutrition progression. In this review, we have evaluated the gut microbiota association with undernutrition and overnutrition in children, and then the quantitative and qualitative significance of gut dysbiosis in order to reveal the impact of gut microbiota modification using probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and engineering biology methods as new therapeutic challenges in the management of disturbed energy homeostasis. Understanding the host–microbiota interaction and the remote regulation of other organs and pathways by gut microbiota can improve the effectiveness of new therapeutic approaches and mitigate the negative consequences of childhood malnutrition.
Optimal site selection for solar plant using analytical hierarchy process (AHP): A case study in Bangladesh
Authors: Ara Anjuman , Zohora Fatima Tuz , Nurul Nabila , Tanvir Anzum , Ahmed Naseem
Published: October 2023

Solar energy is one of the sources of renewable energy which is clean, affordable, and limitless. Despite Bangladesh having a significant potential for solar energy for its excellent geographic location, relatively low research work on location selection for the establishment of solar plants and little attempt has been taken to expand the solar energy industry. The optimal location for a solar plant to be built is the main objective of this research. Considering several aspects, five potential locations are selected utilizing the geographic data to find the optimal location and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) which is one of the multi‐models assessment techniques implemented to get the ideal site for solar power plants. While applying this method, some expert survey has been done via Google Form where some of the principal impact factors are set up like questionnaire and obtained the weight for the criteria for the AHP method. The results of the current analysis indicate that Rajshahi is obtained as best location for solar plant establishment followed by Ishwardi, Chattogram, Chuadanga, and Mymensingh. This work will enable to propose an effective, practical, and structured decision‐making framework that could aid policymakers in Bangladesh to select the best locations for solar farms.
Fortified synbiotic dessert for improving malnutrition in hemodialysis patients: A randomized, double‐blind, controlled trial
Authors: Azad Farzaneh , Hamidianshirazi Maryam , Mazloomi Seyed Mohammad , Shafiee Maryam , Ekramzadeh Maryam
Published: October 2023

As dysbiosis of gut microbiota is recognized as a major risk factor for malnutrition in hemodialysis (HD) patients, we aimed to assess the effects of fortified synbiotic dessert on malnutrition, oxidative stress, inflammation, and quality of life in patients undergoing hemodialysis. A total of 50 hemodialysis patients were randomized into two groups of intervention and control to consume either 50 g of synbiotic dessert fortified with vitamin D (1000 IU) and calcium (500 mg) (FSD) or 50 g of control dessert (CD) for 8 weeks, respectively. Changes in nutritional status [Subjective Global Assessment (SGA)], anthropometric measures, malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), ferritin, biochemistry [serum albumin, vitamin D, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), complete blood count (CBC), and electrolytes], and quality of life were assessed before and at the end of the trial. The SGA scores and serum ferritin levels decreased significantly in the FSD group compared to the control group (p = .01 and p = .03, respectively). Regarding other markers, no statistically significant changes were found comparing the two groups. This novel fortified synbiotic dessert as a functional food may be effective in reducing the severity of malnutrition by improving SGA score in short term in hemodialysis patients. Thus, it is suggested to do further studies to elucidate the possible mechanisms related to the effects of this dessert on microbiota, skeletal muscle mass, and inflammation in HD in long term.
Metabolic parameters predict survival and toxicity in chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy‐treated relapsed/refractory large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Ababneh Hazim S. , Ng Andrea K. , Abramson Jeremy S. , Soumerai Jacob D. , Takvorian Ronald W. , Frigault Matthew J. , Patel Chirayu G.
Published: October 2023

CD19‐targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy has revolutionized treatment for patients with relapsed/refractory large B‐cell lymphoma (LBCL). However, data available concerning the impact of the prognostic value of quantitative 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography‐computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) parameters on the CAR T‐related outcomes and toxicities are limited. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the predictive value of pre‐ and post‐CAR T metabolic parameters on survival and toxicities following CAR T‐cell therapy. Fifty‐nine patients with PET/CT scans done pre‐and post‐CAR T infusion were retrospectively identified and analyzed in a single institution database of LBCL patients treated with commercial CD19‐targeted CAR T‐cell therapy. The median follow‐up was 10.7 months [interquartile range (IQR): 2.6–25.5 months]. The overall response (complete response‐CR and partial response) and CR rates post‐CAR T were 76% (n = 45) and 53% (n = 31), respectively. On univariate analysis, low pre‐CAR T total lesion glycolysis (TLG) and metabolic tumor volume (MTV) predicted improved overall response post‐CAR T (OR = 4.7, p = 0.01, OR = 9.5, p = 0.03, respectively) and CR post‐CAR T (OR = 12.4, p = 0.0004, OR = 10.9, p = 0.0001, respectively). High TLG pre‐CAR T was correlated with cytokine release syndrome (CRS, OR = 3.25, p = 0.04). High MTV pre‐CAR T was correlated with developing immune effector cell neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) events (OR = 4.3, p = 0.01), and high SUV pre‐CAR T was associated with grade 3–4 neurological events (OR = 12, p = 0.01). High MTV/TLG/SUVmax post‐CAR T were significantly associated with inferior Overall survival (OS). On multivariate analysis, high TLG pre‐CAR T (HR = 2.4, p = 0.03), age ≥60 (HR = 2.7, p = 0.03), and bulky disease (≥5 cm) at the time of apheresis (HR = 2.5, p = 0.02) were identified to be independent prognostic factors for inferior PFS. High MTV post‐CAR T was identified as the most prognostic factor associated with inferior OS.
Fight against cholera outbreak, efforts and challenges in Malawi
Authors: Miggo Mictum , Harawa Gracian , Kangwerema Allan , Knovicks Simfukwe , Mfune Chalo , Safari Jackson , Kaunda John Thumbiko , Kalua Joel , Sefu Glory , Phiri Elias , Patel Parth
Published: October 2023

Cholera is endemic in many African countries with recurrent seasonal outbreaks in parts of the region. Malawi has been experiencing seasonal outbreaks of Cholera since 1998, and it is one of the major public health problems. The current cholera outbreak is one of Malawi's worst cholera outbreaks in the past 10 years. Since the beginning of the outbreak about 56,090 cumulative cases of cholera have been reported with 1712 deaths representing a case fatality rate of 3.1%. This is happening when the country is recovering from the COVID‐19 epidemic, the devastating effects of tropical storms, and is also tackling the polio outbreak. Clearly, the Malawian health system is overstretched. Nevertheless, the country has taken a positive step in responding to the current cholera outbreak. Setting up treatment facilities, stepping up Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives in impacted areas, and improving the surveillance system for early case detection and treatment are some of the actions taken. As the fight against cholera continues there is a need to significantly increase monitoring in all districts, particularly at the community level for early detection and control of the cholera. Considering there are some cross‐border cases from neighboring countries such as Mozambique, good collaboration between the two countries in strengthening surveillance and hygiene practices in the borders will help in controlling the spread of the disease. While it is commendable that dozens of oral cholera vaccines have been given, it should be noted that this provides short‐term prevention. In addressing the nation's ongoing and recurrent cholera outbreaks, we advise prioritizing WASH efforts in addition to oral cholera vaccine administration.
Homozygote drepanocytosis: Ferric status and inflammation in world and Africa: Review article and meta analysis
Authors: Tuono De Manfouo Romaric , Louokdom Josué Simo , Chetcha Bernard Claude , Nya Prosper Cabral Biapa , Pieme Constant Anatole , Tagny Claude Tayou
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Major sickle cell syndromes are subjected to a high frequency of hemolysis, infections, oxidative stress, and vasooclusive crises which promote inflammation and iron balance disorders. We aimed to systematically review and analyze the studies in this patients addressing in general, and Africa in particular.

Methods

The systematic review of published articles in the Pubmed and Google Scholar databases was carried out according to the recommendations of the PRISMA model. The case‐control articles have been included. The data extracted from the articles were analyzed using statistical software R. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was used to assess the extent of the disease on the different variables studied.

Results

At the end, 128 articles were obtained; but only 33 were elligible for meta‐analysis. A SMD of −1.79 was obtained for hemoglobin between the sickle cell patients and the controls due to the deviation from the overall mean hemoglobin in the cases (8 ± 2 g/dL) and in controls (13 ± 3 g/dL). Sickle cell disease showed a significant extent on ferritin [SMD = 2.61; (95% confidence interval, CI: 2.39–2.83); (p < 0.01)] compared to non‐sickle cell patients thus describing a higher risk for sickle cell sufferer to have ferritin disorders. The included studies also described the influence of sickle cell anemia on serum iron [SMD = 1.52; (95% CI: 1.32–1.76); (p < 0.01)] compared to normal subjects. The high risk of inflammation has been described as higher in sickle cell patients [SMD = 0.38; (95% CI: 0.25–0.50)], reflecting the moderate extent of sickle cell disease on inflammation.

Conclusion

Patients with major sickle cell syndrome in inflammation have a higher risk of iron profile disorders compared to the normal population. Further studies are needed to explore mechanisms for preventing the deleterious effects of iron from this hemolysis, for example haptoglobin genotyping.
“Veozah (Fezolinetant): A Promising Non‐Hormonal Treatment for Vasomotor Symptoms in Menopause”
Authors: Shaukat Ayesha , Mujeeb Azka , Shahnoor Syeda , Nasser Nathalie , Khan Abdul Moiz
Published: October 2023

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) are a common and distressing experience during menopause, affecting a significant portion of women. Hormone therapy (HT) has been the traditional treatment, but its limitations and potential risks have led to the search foar non‐hormonal alternatives. Recently, the FDA approved Veozah (Fezolinetant) as a promising nonhormonal solution for moderate to severe VMS in menopause. Veozah, an innovative neurokinin 3 (NK3) receptor antagonist, targets the disrupted thermoregulation underlying VMS. It modulates neural activity within the thermoregulatory center by crossing the blood‐brain barrier, offering relief from hot flashes and night sweats. Clinical trials, including SKYLIGHT 1TM, SKYLIGHT 2TM, and SKYLIGHT 4TM, have established Fezolinemtant's efficacy and safety profile. The recommended dosage of one 45 mg tablet per day demonstrates proportional pharmacokinetics, with generally mild side effects that require regular monitoring. Fezolinetant's oral availability makes it a convenient and accessible option for women seeking relief from VMS, potentially improving their overall well‐being.
Scurvy: A treatable forgotten fatal differential diagnosis and potential etiology of leukemia and aplastic anemia in pediatric population
Authors: Mashauri Harold L.
Published: October 2023

Scurvy is a rare nutritional deficiency disease which is less likely to be suspected and it mostly lead to delayed diagnosis. It can present with features which can mislead clinicians to misdiagnose the condition as leukemia or aplastic anemia. This can subject patients to the wrong management which leads to poor outcome and increased preventable morbidity and mortality. Vitamin C deficiency is still prevalent among pediatric population even in the modern days and should no longer be considered as historical condition. Chromosomal fragility has been greatly accounted for the development of leukemia and aplastic anemia secondary to various triggers. The role of vitamin C toward DNA stability, prevention, and control of mutations have been documented. Vitamin C plays a vital role in hematopoiesis by controlling regulation and prevent dysfunction of hematopoietic stem cells. Scurvy deficiency has been a silent growing clinical problem which needs a high index of suspicion for a clinician to pick it. It should be considered as one among potential differential diagnosis of leukemia and aplastic anemia especially in the pediatric population. History of any dietary restriction should be obtained and addressed properly. Serum vitamin C should be among the essential laboratory workout in diagnosis of both leukemia and aplastic anemia. All patients suspected to have such conditions should be screened and supplemented for vitamin C deficiency irrespective of positive confirmatory test results of leukemia or aplastic anemia since the probability of co‐occurrence is likely also. Moreover, studies should be conducted to explore the clinical link, if any, between vitamin C deficiency or insufficiency and development of leukemia and aplastic anemia among the pediatric population given its physiological and genomic role in hematopoiesis. Furthermore, the potential pharmacological therapeutic use of vitamin C in treatment of leukemia and aplastic anemia should be determined clinically.
Understanding children's prosocial behaviour and classroom affiliative relationships: A social network analysis
Authors: Beffel Jenna H. , Neal Jennifer Watling
Published: October 2023

The present study uses social network analyses to examine the associations between children's prosocial behaviour and classroom affiliative relationships (i.e., hanging out relationships). Our sample includes data from 257 children and their teachers in 12 s through fourth‐grade classrooms living in high‐poverty, inner‐urban city neighbourhoods (98.4% African American). We estimated a series of exponential random graph models (ERGMs) for the 12 classrooms and then meta‐analysed the ERGM results using a multi‐level meta‐analysis technique to examine the effects of prosocial behaviour and homophily of prosocial behaviour on children's affiliative relationships across classrooms. Our results revealed a significant effect of prosocial behaviour, suggesting that children with higher levels of prosocial behaviour were more likely to have more affiliative relationships. We also saw a significant effect of homophily of prosocial behaviour, suggesting that the more similar the children were in terms of prosocial behaviour, the more likely they were to have an affiliative relationship. Our findings highlight the importance of prosocial behaviour in children's affiliative relationships and have implications for fostering children's affiliative relationships and improving their well‐being.
Identity status and narrative identity processes in female adolescents' stories about committing crimes and being convicted
Authors: Azad Azadé , Carlsson Johanna
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Adolescent delinquency has been suggested to evolve from a normative motivation to establish independence and identity. However, few studies have examined this in detail, especially in young women. The aim was, therefore, to investigate identity formation in adolescent females with limited delinquency by focusing on identity status and identity processes in narratives about committing crimes and being convicted.

Methods

Interviews with 10 females, 15–18 years old, sentenced to youth service in three Swedish cities were conducted on Zoom.

Results

The results showed an equal distribution of all identity statuses within the group. Thematic analysis of their stories about crime and conviction showed that delinquency was described in terms of exploration and commitment, although commitment appeared more clearly. Social relations, in particular peers, played an important role in both committing as well as desisting from delinquency. In terms of narrative processes, the stories contained elements of agency, although diminishing of one's own capability and/or responsibility was common, and meaning making, mostly lesson learning, usually pertained to behaviors, interactional rules, or norms.

Conclusion

These findings point to the importance of viewing delinquency among young women in a social and developmental context, where delinquency may be a part of the process of identity formation. Interventions focusing on expressing needs of belonging as well as finding oneself in more adaptive ways are warranted, where supporting pro‐social relations and contexts is a suggested focus.
Development of a membrane and a bilayer of chitosan, gelatin, and polyhydroxybutyrate to be used as wound dressing for the regeneration of rat excisional wounds
Authors: Barbosa Joana Lobato , de Melo Mariane Izabella Abreu , da Silva Cunha Pricila , de Miranda Marcelo Coutinho , Barrioni Breno Rocha , Moreira Cheisy Daiana Freitas , da Fonseca Ferreira Andrea , Arantes Rosa Maria Esteves , de Sá Marcos Augusto , de Magalhães Pereira Marivalda , Rodrigues Michele Angela , Novikoff Silviene , Gomes Dawidson Assis , de Goes Alfredo Miranda
Published: October 2023

The skin is the largest organ in the human body that acts as a protective barrier from the outside environment. Certain dermatological pathologies or significant skin lesions can result in serious complications. Several studies have focused on the development of tissue‐engineered skin substitutes. In this study, a new bilayer scaffold composed of a chitosan‐gelatin membrane and a chitosan‐polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) porous matrix was synthesized and populated with human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASCs) to be potentially used for wound dressing applications. By combining this membrane and porous matrix with the stem cells, we aimed to provide immunomodulation and differentiation capabilities for the wound environment, as well as mechanical strength and biocompatibility for the underlying tissue. The membrane was prepared from the mixture of chitosan and gelatin in a 2:1 ratio and the porous matrix was prepared from the mixture of chitosan and PHB, in equal proportions to form a final solution at 2.5% (m/v). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed the formation of blends, and micro‐computed tomography, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy images demonstrated membrane roughness and matrix porosity. The MTT assay showed that the scaffolds were biocompatible with hASC. The membrane and the bilayer were used as dressing and support for cell migration in the dorsal excisional wound model in Wistar rats. Histological and gene transcriptional analyses showed that the animals that received the scaffolds regenerated the hair follicles in the deep dermis in the central region of the wound. Our results demonstrate the potential of these new biomaterials as dressings in wound healing studies, favoring tissue regeneration.
Glycyrrhizin protects against diosbulbin B‐induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting the metabolic activation of diosbulbin B
Authors: Yang Bufan , Liu Jie , Chang Xiaojin , Lin Dongju
Published: October 2023

Diosbulbin B (DIOB), isolated from herbal medicine Dioscorea bulbifera L. (DB), could induce severe liver injury, and its toxicology was closely associated with CYP3A4‐mediated metabolic oxidation of furan moiety to the corresponding cis‐enedial reactive metabolite. Glycyrrhizin (GL), the major bioactive ingredient in licorice, can inhibit the activity of CYP3A4. Thus, GL may ameliorate hepatotoxicity of DIOB when GL and DIOB are co‐administrated. The study aimed to investigate the protective effect of GL on DIOB‐induced hepatotoxicity and the underlying mechanism. Biochemical and histopathological analysis demonstrated that GL alleviated DIOB‐induced hepatotoxicity in a dose‐dependent manner. In vitro study with mouse liver microsomes (MLMs) demonstrated that GL reduced the formation of metabolic activation‐derived pyrrole‐glutathione (GSH) conjugates from DIOB. Toxicokinetic studies showed that the pretreatment with GL caused the increase of AUCs and Cmax of DIOB in blood of mice, resulting in accelerating the accumulation of DIOB in the circulation. In addition, the pretreatment with GL alleviated DIOB‐induced hepatic GSH depletion. In summary, GL ameliorated DIOB‐induced hepatotoxicity, possibly related to the inhibition of the metabolic activation of DIOB. Thus, development of a standardized combination of DIOB with GL may protect patients from DIOB‐induced liver injury.
Inositol polyphosphate multikinase modulates free fatty acids‐induced insulin resistance in primary mouse hepatocytes
Authors: Jung Ik‐Rak , Ahima Rexford S. , Kim Sangwon F.
Published: October 2023

Insulin resistance is a critical mediator of the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). An excess influx of fatty acids to the liver is thought to be a pathogenic cause of insulin resistance and the development of NAFLD. Although elevated levels of free fatty acids (FFA) in plasma contribute to inducing insulin resistance and NAFLD, the molecular mechanism is not completely understood. This study aimed to determine whether inositol polyphosphate multikinase (IPMK), a regulator of insulin signaling, plays any role in FFA‐induced insulin resistance in primary hepatocytes. Here, we show that excess FFA decreased IPMK expression, and blockade of IPMK decrease attenuated the FFA‐induced suppression of protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation in primary mouse hepatocytes (PMH). Moreover, overexpression of IPMK prevented the FFA‐induced suppression of Akt phosphorylation by insulin, while knockout of IPMK exacerbated insulin resistance in PMH. In addition, treatment with MG132, a proteasomal inhibitor, inhibits FFA‐induced decrease in IPMK expression and Akt phosphorylation in PMH. Furthermore, treatment with the antioxidant N‐acetyl cysteine (NAC) significantly attenuated the FFA‐induced reduction of IPMK and restored FFA‐induced insulin resistance in PMH. In conclusion, our findings suggest that excess FFA reduces IPMK expression and contributes to the FFA‐induced decrease in Akt phosphorylation in PMH, leading to insulin resistance. Our study highlights IPMK as a potential therapeutic target for preventing insulin resistance and NAFLD.
The ameliorating effects of mesenchymal stem cells compared to α‐tocopherol on apoptosis and autophagy in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats: Implication of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and entero‐insular axis
Authors: Mubarak Heba A. , Kamal Manal M. , Mahmoud Yossra , Abd‐Elsamea Fatma S. , Abdelbary Eman , Gamea Marwa G. , El‐Mahdy Reham I.
Published: October 2023

Bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM‐MSCs) are considered a novel regenerative therapy that holds much potential. This study aimed to examine and compare the ameliorative effects of BM‐MSCs compared to α‐tocopherol (α‐Toc) on apoptosis, autophagy, and β‐cell function in a rat model of streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetes and further analyzed the implications and interrelations of the entero‐insular axis, and type I phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling. Forty adult male albino rats were categorized into four groups (n = 10, in each): control group, STZ‐induced diabetic group (single i.p. injection of STZ 45 mg/kg), diabetic and treated with BM‐MSCs injection, diabetic and treatment with α‐Toc p.o. The serum glucose, insulin, nitric oxide (NO), and catalase (CAT) were measured. Histopathological examination of the pancreas, the expression levels of insulin, CD44, caspase‐3, autophagy markers, P13K/Akt, and pancreas/duodenum homeobox protein 1, in pancreatic tissue, and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) in the duodenum were detected by hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescence labeling, and by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The diabetic rats showed reduced insulin, hyperglycemia, nitrosative stress (NO, CAT), augmented apoptosis (caspase 3), impaired autophagy (p62/SQSTM1, LC3), downregulated PI3K/Akt pathway and increased GIP expression, and degeneration of pancreatic islets. Treatment with either BM‐MSCs or α‐Toc suppressed the nitrosative stress, reduced apoptosis, recovered autophagy, upregulated PI3K/Akt pathway, and subsequently increased insulin levels, decreased blood glucose, and downregulated GIP expression with partial restoration of pancreatic islets. Based on our findings, the cytoprotective effects of BM‐MSCs and α‐Toc in type 1‐induced diabetes appeared to be related to repaired autophagy and recovered PI3K/Akt signaling. Moreover, we reported their novel effects on reversing intestinal GIP expression level. The effect of BM‐MSCs was notably superior to that of α‐Toc.
The roles of vicarious trauma exposure and perceived social support in codeine syrup misuse among Black men living in prisons
Authors: Dogan‐Dixon Jardin , Thrasher Shawndaya S. , Thorpe Shemeka , Wheeler Paris , Stevens‐Watkins Danelle
Published: October 2023

Using General Strain Theory, this study investigates the effects of vicarious trauma exposure and perceived social support on nonmedical codeine syrup misuse among Black incarcerated men nearing community re‐entry. Data were drawn from the Helping Incarcerated Men project, a study examining mental health, substance misuse, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk behaviors among Black men living in prisons who were within 180 days of release. A total of 200 Black men self‐reported demographics (i.e., age and length of incarceration after age 18), vicarious trauma exposure (e.g., ever witnessing an assault with a weapon and a sudden accidental death), perceived social support, and nonmedical codeine syrup misuse. Findings from the logistic regression analysis showed witnessing an assault with a weapon and a sudden accidental death increased the likelihood of codeine syrup misuse. Perceived social support was not associated with codeine syrup misuse. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Simulated microgravity attenuates skin wound healing by inhibiting dermal fibroblast migration via F‐actin/YAP signaling pathway
Authors: Zhou Yuhao , Lv Wenjun , Peng Xiufen , Cheng Yansiwei , Tu Yun , Song Guanbin , Luo Qing
Published: October 2023

Skin and its cell components continuously subject to extrinsic and intrinsic mechanical forces and are mechanical sensitive. Disturbed mechanical homeostasis may lead to changes in skin functions. Gravity is the integral mechanical force on the earth, however, how gravity contributes to the maintenance of skin function and how microgravity in space affects the wound healing are poorly understood. Here, using microgravity analogs, we show that simulated microgravity (SMG) inhibits the healing of cutaneous wound and the accumulation of dermal fibroblasts in the wound bed. In vitro, SMG inhibits the migration of human foreskin fibroblast cells (HFF‐1), and decreases the F‐actin polymerization and YAP (yes‐associated protein) activity. The SMG‐inhibited migration can be recovered by activating YAP or F‐actin polymerization using lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) or jasplakinolide (Jasp), suggesting the involvement of F‐actin/YAP signaling pathway in this process. In SMG rats, LPA treatment improves the cutaneous healing with increased dermal fibroblasts in the wound bed. Together, our results demonstrate that SMG attenuates the cutaneous wound healing by inhibiting dermal fibroblast migration, and propose the crucial role of F‐actin/YAP mechano‐transduction in the maintenance of skin homeostasis under normal gravity, and YAP as a possible therapeutic target for the skin care of astronauts in space.
Acceptability of an online communication training intervention for genetic counseling students
Authors: Lowe Chenery , Erby Lori , Joseph Galen , Biesecker Barbara , Roter Debra L.
Published: October 2023

Technology provides opportunities to enhance communication skills training for genetic counseling graduate students. We assessed the acceptability of an online communication training program. Graduate student volunteers completed five online training modules on basic communication skills with opportunities to practice the skills within three simulated/standardized patient (SP) sessions. Participants completed online questionnaires reporting on acceptability, perceived usefulness, and realism of the modules and SP sessions. They also reported on the ease of transferring skills from the modules to clinical practice. Out of the 60 students who completed the baseline session, 35 (58%) completed all five training modules. Out of these 35 students, most found the modules to be useful (94%) and agreed that they were relevant to clinical practice (97%). At least 88% of participants found the genetic counselors, patient, and case scenarios to be realistic. Twenty‐eight students had participated in clinical rotations since completing the intervention. Of these, 17 (61%) reported that it was at least slightly easy to use the skills in actual clinical cases. Most students also reported being able to transfer the skills they had learned into clinical practice. While the training was well‐received, the relatively low completion rate of 58% raises concern that the intervention may need formal integration into the program curriculum to succeed due to the time and effort demands on students.
No evidence for systemic low‐grade inflammation in adult patients with early‐treated phenylketonuria: The INGRAPH study
Authors: Giret Chloé , Dos Santos Yann , Blasco Hélène , Paget Christophe , Gonzalez Loïc , Tressel Nathalie , Dieu Maeva , Bigot Adrien , Gissot Valérie , Audemard‐Verger Alexandra , Maillot François
Published: October 2023

The question of an increased cardiovascular risk has been recently raised in adults with phenylketonuria (PKU). As low‐grade systemic inflammation increases cardiovascular risk, the INGRAPH study aimed to evaluate low‐grade inflammation in adult PKU patients compared to healthy controls and to determine the potential influence of Phe‐controlled diet on inflammation. Twenty early‐treated adult PKU patients, including a subgroup of 15 classical PKU patients, and 20 healthy volunteers were included. PKU patients and healthy subjects were matched on age, sex and body mass index class. Plasma concentrations of CRP, IFNg, IL1a, IL1b, IL2, IL6, IL10, and TNFα were measured in PKU patients and compared to controls. Plasma CRP was not different in the PKU group as compared to controls. No significant differences were observed between the two groups concerning plasma cytokines concentrations. Plasma CRP and cytokine profile were not different between “on diet” and “off diet” PKU patients. All these results were similar considering only the classical PKU subgroup. No differences were shown in plasma CRP and pro‐inflammatory cytokines between adult PKU patients and healthy controls. Further studies are needed, including more patients and extensive characterization of systemic low‐grade inflammation, as cardiovascular risk appears to be a new concern in adult PKU population.
Withdrawn: The Property of a Novel Cross‐Linked Foam from Thermoplastic Phenol‐Terminated Polyphenylene Ether Resin with High Molecular Weight Cured by Hydroxymethylated Phenol‐Terminated Polyphenylene Ether Resin with Low Molecular Weight
Authors: Li Tingting , Gao Wenhan , Yu Ruobing , Xia Rui , Chang Bu
Published: October 2023

Withdrawal: Tingting Li, Wenhan Gao, Ruobing Yu, Rui Xia, Bu Chang, The Property of A Novel Crosslinked Foam from Thermoplastic Phenol‐Terminated Polyphenylene Ether Resin with High Molecular Weight (MPF) Cured by Hydroxymethylated Phenol‐Terminated Polyphenylene Ether Resin with Low Molecular Weight (LPR), Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics, 5th October 2023,

(https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/macp.202300247).

The above article, published online on 5th October 2023, on Wiley Online Library (https://doi.org/10.1002/macp.202300247), has been withdrawn by agreement between the journal Editor in Chief, Mara Staffilani, and Wiley‐VCH GmbH, Weinheim. The withdrawal has been agreed because the authors did not respond to requests to finalize their article for publication in the journal as the Version of Record.
Additive Effect of Graphene and Lignin‐Derived Graphene on Radical Polymerization Behaviors of Methacrylate Monomers
Authors: Okamoto Shusuke , Fukuda Mami , Kawabata Koki , Komoda Ayumi , Suwaki Ryo , Mori Mikaru , Fujishiro Fumito , Ishii Takafumi , Mori Masanobu , Nagai Daisuke
Published: October 2023

Radical polymerizations of methyl methacrylate (MMA) using graphene or lignin‐derived graphene as additives give the corresponding poly(MMA)s of which much wider molecular weight distribution (MWD) than that of the poly(MMA) without additives. The MWD of the resulting poly(MMA) using graphene is wider compared to that using lignin‐derived graphene, suggesting that the structural differences between the two graphene compounds affect radical polymerization behavior. Furthermore, the radical polymerizations of methacrylate monomers with different substituents using the two graphene compounds are performed, leading to the additive effect of the two graphene compounds which is relevant to the steric hindrance of the monomer.
Stability of Quadruple Hydrogen Bonds in an Ionic Liquid Environment
Authors: Li Chenming , Bhandary Rajesh , Marinow Anja , Bachmann Stephanie , Pöppler Ann‐Christin , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: October 2023

Hydrogen bonds (H‐bonds) are highly sensitive to the surrounding environments owing to their dipolar nature, with polar solvents kown to significantly weaken H‐bonds. Herein, the stability of the H‐bonding motif ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) is investigated, embedded into a highly polar polymeric ionic liquid (PIL) consisting of pendant pyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (IL) moieties, to study the influence of such ionic environments on the UPy H‐bonds. The content of the surrounding IL is changed by addition of an additional low molecular weight IL to further boost the IL content around the UPy moieties in molar ratios of UPy/IL ranging from 1/4 up to 1/113, thereby promoting the polar microenvironment around the UPy‐H‐bonds. Variable‐temperature solid‐state MAS NMR spectroscopy and FT‐IR spectroscopy demonstrate that the UPy H‐bonds are largely present as (UPy‐) dimers, but sensitive to elevated temperatures (>70 °C). Subsequent rheology and DSC studies reveal that the ILs only solvate the polymeric chains but do not interfere with the UPy‐dimer H‐bonds, thus accounting for their high stability and applicability in many material systems.