bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A homozygous Y443C variant in the RNPC3 is associated with severe syndromic congenital hypopituitarism and diffuse brain atrophy
Authors: Bezen Diğdem , Kutlu Orkide , Mouilleron Stephane , Rizzoti Karine , Dattani Mehul , Guran Tulay , Yeşil Gözde
Published: July 2022

Biallelic RNPC3 variants have been reported in a few patients with growth hormone deficiency, either in isolation or in association with central hypothyroidism, congenital cataract, neuropathy, developmental delay/intellectual disability, hypogonadism, and pituitary hypoplasia. To describe a new patient with syndromic congenital hypopituitarism and diffuse brain atrophy due to RNPC3 mutations and to compare her clinical and molecular characteristics and pituitary functions with previously published patients. A 20‐year‐old female presented with severe growth, neuromotor, and developmental delay. Her weight, height, and head circumference were 5135 gr (−25.81 SDS), 68 cm (−16.17 SDS), and 34 cm (−17.03 SDS), respectively. She was prepubertal, and had dysmorphic facies, contractures, and spasticity in the extremities, and severe truncal hypotonia. There were no radiological signs of a skeletal dysplasia. The bone age was extremely delayed at 2 years. Investigation of pituitary function revealed growth hormone, prolactin, and thyroid‐stimulating hormone deficiencies. Whole‐exome sequencing revealed a novel homozygous missense (c.1328A > G; Y443C) variant in RNPC3. Cranial MRI revealed a hypoplastic anterior pituitary with diffuse cerebral and cerebellar atrophy. The Y443C variant in RNPC3 associated with syndromic congenital hypopituitarism and abnormal brain development. This report extends the RNPC3‐related hypopituitarism phenotype with a severe neurodegenerative presentation.
A pH‐Driven Small‐Molecule Nanotransformer Hijacks Lysosomes and Overcomes Autophagy‐Induced Resistance in Cancer
Authors: Ma Zhao , Lin Kai , Tang Menghuan , Ramachandran Mythili , Qiu Reng , Li Jin , Solano Lucas N. , Huang Yanyu , De Souza Cristabelle , Abou‐Adas Sara , Xiang Bai , Zhang Lanwei , Li Minyong , Li Yuanpei
Published: July 2022

Smart conversion of supramolecular structures in vivo is an attractive strategy in cancer nanomedicine, which is usually achieved via specific peptide sequences. Here we developed a lysosomal targeting small‐molecule conjugate, PBC, which self‐assembles into nanoparticles at physiological pH and smartly converts to nanofibrils in lysosomes of tumor cells. Such a transformation mechanically leads to lysosomal dysfunction, autophagy inhibition, and unusual cytoplasmic vacuolation, thus granting PBC a unique anticancer activity as a monotherapy. Importantly, the photo‐activated PBC elicits significant phototoxicity to lysosomes and shows enormous advantages in overcoming autophagy‐caused treatment resistance frequently occurring in conventional phototherapy. This improved phototherapy achieves a complete cure of oral cancer xenografts upon limited administration. Our work provides a new paradigm for the construction of nonpeptide nanotransformers with biomedical activities.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Reductive Alkylation of Heteroaryl Imines**
Authors: Turro Raymond F. , Brandstätter Marco , Reisman Sarah E.
Published: July 2022

The preparation of heterobenzylic amines by a Ni‐catalyzed reductive cross‐coupling between heteroaryl imines and C(sp3) electrophiles is reported. This umpolung‐type alkylation proceeds under mild conditions, avoids the pre‐generation of organometallic reagents, and exhibits good functional group tolerance. Mechanistic studies are consistent with the imine substrate acting as a redox‐active ligand upon coordination to a low‐valent Ni center. The resulting bis(2‐imino)heterocycle⋅Ni complexes can engage in alkylation reactions with a variety of C(sp3) electrophiles, giving heterobenzylic amine products in good yields.
DFT‐Guided Discovery of Ethynyl‐Triazolyl‐Phosphinates as Modular Electrophiles for Chemoselective Cysteine Bioconjugation and Profiling
Authors: Stieger Christian E. , Park Yerin , de Geus Mark A. R. , Kim Dongju , Huhn Christiane , Slenczka J. Sophia , Ochtrop Philipp , Müchler Judith M. , Süssmuth Roderich D. , Broichhagen Johannes , Baik Mu‐Hyun , Hackenberger Christian P. R.
Published: July 2022

We report the density functional theory (DFT) guided discovery of ethynyl‐triazolyl‐phosphinates (ETPs) as a new class of electrophilic warheads for cysteine selective bioconjugation. By using CuI‐catalysed azide alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) in aqueous buffer, we were able to access a variety of functional electrophilic building blocks, including proteins, from diethynyl‐phosphinate. ETP‐reagents were used to obtain fluorescent peptide‐conjugates for receptor labelling on live cells and a stable and a biologically active antibody‐drug‐conjugate. Moreover, we were able to incorporate ETP‐electrophiles into an azide‐containing ubiquitin under native conditions and demonstrate their potential in protein–protein conjugation. Finally, we showcase the excellent cysteine‐selectivity of this new class of electrophile in mass spectrometry based, proteome‐wide cysteine profiling, underscoring the applicability in homogeneous bioconjugation strategies to connect two complex biomolecules.
Breakthrough SARS–CoV‐2 Infections in Patients With Immune‐Mediated Disease Undergoing B Cell–Depleting Therapy: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Calabrese Cassandra M. , Kirchner Elizabeth , Husni Elaine M. , Moss Brandon P. , Fernandez Anthony P. , Jin Yuxuan , Calabrese Leonard H.
Published: July 2022

Objective

Patients with immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) receiving B cell–depleting therapy (BCDT) are among the most vulnerable to severe COVID‐19, as well as the most likely to suboptimally respond to SARS–CoV‐2 vaccines. However, little is known about the frequency or severity of breakthrough infection in this population. We retrospectively analyzed a large group of vaccinated IMID patients undergoing BCDT in order to identify breakthrough COVID‐19 infections and assess their outcomes.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, the pharmacy records and COVID‐19 registry at the Cleveland Clinic were searched using specific International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision codes to identify IMIDs patients who 1) received treatment with BCDT, 2) were vaccinated against SARS–CoV‐2, and 3) experienced breakthrough infections. Each electronic medical record was reviewed to extract clinical data and outcomes. Univariate and multivariable logistic/proportional odds regression models were used to examine the risk factors for severe outcomes.

Results

Of 1,696 IMID patients receiving BCDT, 74 developed breakthrough COVID‐19 prior to December 16, 2021. Outcomes were severe, with 29 patients hospitalized (39.2%), 11 patients requiring critical care (14.9%), and 6 deaths (8.1%). Outpatient anti–SARS–CoV‐2 monoclonal antibodies were used to treat 21 patients, with 1 hospitalization and no deaths. A comparator analysis examining 1,437 unvaccinated IMID patients receiving BCDT over the same time period identified 57 COVID‐19 cases (4.0%), with 28 requiring hospitalization (49.1%), including 7 deaths (12.3%).

Conclusion

IMID patients receiving BCDT regardless of vaccine status appear to be vulnerable to infection with SARS–CoV‐2, and use of BCDT is frequently associated with severe outcomes. Outpatient use of anti–SARS–CoV‐2 monoclonal antibody therapy appears to be associated with enhanced clinical outcomes.
Considering Affordability Programs for Water and Wastewater Utilities
Authors: Hawkins George S. , Neiderer Sarah , Kricun Andrew
Published: July 2022

Key Takeaways

Many US water and wastewater customers have a hard time paying their water bills; the COVID‐19 pandemic has heightened the struggle.

While the water industry considers its own financial challenges in addressing aging infrastructure and climate change, and providing high‐quality water, it realizes its duty to keep water affordable.

Utilities wanting to help households facing financial hardship have options for the types of affordability programs they provide and how those programs are funded.
Public Perceptions of US Tap Water: Year 2
Authors: Junker Matthew , Carpenter Adam T.
Published: July 2022

Key Takeaways

The results of a follow‐up Public Perceptions of Tap Water survey found that tap water's reputation remained high in 2021.

Even so, the 2021 survey showed declines from 2020 levels in confidence, perceived safety, and satisfaction that were not easily explained.

Survey results have suggested ways to improve public perceptions of tap water.
Synthesis of binary metal–metal oxide core‐shell nanoparticles via surfactant‐free intercation redox reactions
Authors: Yim Gyeonghye , Cho Sanghyuk , Park Jung Tae , Jang Hongje
Published: July 2022

Surfactant‐free one‐step redox reactions between two types of metal cations enable the synthesis of core‐shell nanoparticles without sophisticated control. The reduced noble metal cations form a solid core, and the transition metal cations dissolved upon oxidation induce the subsequent formation of a metal oxide shell. Various nanostructures are obtained from the combination of reduction‐preferring Au3+, Pd2+, Pt2+, Rh3+, and Ir3+ cations, and oxidation‐preferring Ti3+, Mo3+, V2+, and V3+ cations. Among the synthesized core‐shell nanoparticles, Au–M (M = Ti, Mo, and V) is selected for the photodegradation tests at 365 and 808 nm.
New Priorities, New Voices, New Ideas: How Private Company Boards Are Changing to Help Small‐ and Medium‐Sized Companies Survive and Thrive
Authors: Patterson Gary
Published: July 2022

Gary Patterson is president & CEO of FiscalDoctor. In this article, he offers insights into current trends and challenges for the boards of small‐ and medium‐sized businesses—including family businesses, private businesses, and smaller public organizations.
Board Diversity: Is It Important, and How Are We Doing?
Authors: Hackston John
Published: July 2022

John Hackston is head of Thought Leadership at The Myers‐Briggs Company. In this article, he explores the state of gender diversity on boards of directors and how it impacts their organizations' performance and operations.
How Boards Can Use Technology to Diversify and Fill Skills Gaps
Authors: Kunzler Rob
Published: July 2022

Rob Kunzler is chief marketing officer of OnBoard, a board management software company. This article explores how boards that oversee governance at businesses and organizations are utilizing technology to securely plan and build diverse leadership teams.
Determination of the dissipative behaviour and final residue of sodium nitrophenol in jujube by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Lan Feng , Li Qingyu , Lan Maolong , Zhang Shiqiang , Yao Jie , Li Ruili , Wang Zhixin
Published: July 2022

Through field trials and residue analysis, the dissipation behaviour and final residue levels of sodium nitrophenol on jujube were clarified to provide a basis for its safe application and the development of maximum residue limits. The samples were extracted with acetonitrile, cleaned up by a hydrophilic–lipophilic balanced solid‐phase extraction column, determined by ultra‐high LC–tandem mass spectrometry and quantified by the external standard method. The mean recoveries of sodium 5‐nitroguaiacolate, sodium o‐nitrophenol and sodium p‐nitrophenol were 88.9%–103.8%, with relative standard deviations less than 13.6% at 0.002–0.2 mg/kg spiked levels. Sodium nitrophenol in jujube was dissipated according to the first‐order kinetic equation with half‐lives of 12.7–17.4 days. At a harvesting interval of 7 days, the residues of sodium nitrophenol in jujube were lower than the limit of 0.03 mg/kg established by the European Food Safety Authority. Residues of jujube were acceptable at a harvest interval of 7 days when sodium nitrophenol was sprayed twice at 9.0 mg/kg with an interval of 7 days. Therefore, the safety interval for sodium nitrophenol application on jujube can be set as 7 days.
Sustainable development and environmental ingenuities: The influence of collaborative arrangements on environmental performance
Authors: Shahab Yasir , Wang Peng , Tauringana Venancio
Published: July 2022

Modern‐day firms are under extreme pressure from diverse stakeholders to integrate environmentalism, mainly sustainable, social, and environmental ingenuities like biodiversity initiatives, into their business strategy. Collaborative arrangements in the form of business groups can positively influence sustainable development and environmental ingenuities by adhering to environmental policies and regulations and pursuing environmental orientation as they have a higher political or social visibility. However, such collaborations may negatively influence ecological and carbon footprints as their stronger political legitimacy means that they are less worried about undertaking legitimation activities in the drive toward environmental protection and restoration, such as enhanced sustainable social and environmental performance. This paper adds to the emerging conflicting business strategy and environment literature to resolve whether corporate's collaborative actions protect the environment or further deteriorate it in the form of increased or decreased sustainable social and environmental performance. Using a large sample of 21,086 firm‐year observations from 2010 to 2018 in China (the world's biggest polluter), we find a negative and significant relationship between corporate's collaborative actions and sustainable social and environmental performance, implying that such collaborative arrangements have worse sustainable social and environmental performance than non‐collaborative (individual) firms. The findings highlight vital guidelines in framing stratagems about ecological protection and restoration and effectively improving the environmental footprints of the firms. Our results constitute the interests of policymakers and controllers concerned with evaluating initiatives pertaining to ecological protection and sustainable development among the collaboratively managed enterprises.
Dark personality in dark times: How Dark Triad personality interacts with injustice and politics to influence detachment and discretionary behaviours
Authors: Syed Fauzia , Raja Usman , Naseer Saima
Published: July 2022

Using two‐wave time‐lagged multi‐source data in two studies, we examine how Dark Triad personality (DTP) interacts with contextual variables to influence psychological detachment and discretionary behaviours. In Study 1 (N = 288), we examine the combined effects of DTP and perceived injustice on psychological detachment and organizational citizenship behaviours (OCBs). In Study 2 (N = 461), we examine the combined effects of DTP and perceived organizational politics (POP) on counterproductive work behaviours (CWB) and psychological detachment. We found that Dark Triad personality was positively related to psychological detachment and CWBs and negatively related to OCBs. The effects of the DTP on psychological detachment, OCBs, and CWBs were stronger when perceived injustice and POP was high.
DBFact: A better approach to calculate the minimum variance control law for nonminimum phase MIMO systems
Authors: Lima Maria , Trierweiler Jorge O. , Farenzena Marcelo
Published: July 2022

This paper presents the diagonal with Blaschke products factorization (DBFact) approach to factor out multivariable time delay and nonminimum phase zeros from multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) systems. Based on that, a new output‐order independent minimum variance (MV) control law for MIMO systems is proposed. The DBFact method is a two‐step factorization procedure, relying on the diagonal and Blaschke factorization methods. This method has the advantage of being a direct and non‐iterative procedure. This new factorization approach allows the calculation of an MV control law considering the multivariable time delay as a limiting‐performance factor and the nonminimum phase zeros and their corresponding directions. Based on the proposed MV control law, a performance benchmark is introduced, which can be calculated by the DBFact filters and routine operating data. The DBFact methodology was applied to two control structures of the linear plant model of Linde's heat integrated air separation, in which the MV control law output‐order dependency property and the suitability of the performance benchmark were evaluated. Some results were compared with those obtained by admitting the generalized interactor matrix instead of the DBFact filters. The results show the capability of the DBFact methodology to factor the nonminimum phase terms to provide a reliable MIMO controller performance benchmark and illustrate the importance of considering the nonminimum phase zeros and their actual directionality in the MV control law.
Chiral Macrocyclic AIEgens from BINOL and Tetraphenylethene via Tailoring Chirality of Luminescent Molecular Propellers
Authors: Wang Yitong , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Hongkun , Liu Xindong , Wang Lei , Liu Yi
Published: July 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Herein, a pair of chiral macrocyclic luminogens derived from chiral 1,1‐bi(2‐naphthol) (BINOL) and tetraphenylethenes (TPEs) have been prepared with high yield via intramolecular McMurry coupling, in which the preferential helicity of propeller‐shaped TPE units can be tuned via choosing proper chiral BINOL tethers. The preferential chiral geometry of the macrocyclic luminogen was unambiguously confirmed by X‐ray crystal crystallography and theoretical calculation, whereas the variable‐temperature NMR spectra and chiral HPLC analysis further verified the intramolecular motions. These two chiral macrocyclic luminogens both exhibit obvious aggregation‐induced emission behavior and mechanochromic luminescence properties. Furthermore, aggregation attenuated CD signals and circularly polarized luminescence were observed for these two chiral macrocylic luminogens in THF‐water mixture and PMMA matrix. These results had paved a new approach toward constructing chiral aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) and their structural engineering.
Impact of obesity and white adipose tissue inflammation on the omental microenvironment in endometrial cancer
Authors: Moukarzel Lea A. , Ferrando Lorenzo , Stylianou Anthe , Lobaugh Stephanie , Wu Michelle , Nobre Silvana Pedra , Iasonos Alexia , Zoppoli Gabriele , Giri Dilip D. , Abu‐Rustum Nadeem R. , Broach Vance A. , Iyengar Neil M. , Weigelt Britta , Makker Vicky
Published: July 2022

Background

A complex relationship between adipose tissue and malignancy, involving an inflammatory response, has been reported. The goal of this work was to assess the prevalence of white adipose tissue (WAT) inflammation in patients with endometrial cancer (EC), and the association with circulating inflammation markers. Furthermore, the aim was to characterize the pathways activated in and the cell type composition of adipose tissue in patients with EC.

Methods

Adipose tissue and blood samples were prospectively collected from 101 patients with EC at initial surgery. WAT inflammation was determined based on adipocytes surrounded by macrophages forming crown‐like structures. Circulating levels of metabolic syndrome–associated and inflammatory markers were quantified. RNA‐sequencing was performed on adipose samples (n = 55); differential gene expression, pathway, and cellular decomposition analyses were performed using state‐of‐the‐art bioinformatics methods.

Results

WAT inflammation was identified in 46 (45.5%) of 101 EC patients. Dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with WAT inflammation (p < .05). WAT inflammation was associated with greater body mass index (p < .001) and higher circulating levels of leptin, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, and interleukin‐6, as well as lower levels of adiponectin and sex hormone–binding globulin (p < .05). Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated increased levels of proinflammatory and pro‐neoplastic–related gene expression in inflamed omental adipose tissue.

Conclusions

WAT inflammation is associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity, and inflammatory markers, as well as increased expression of proinflammatory and proneoplastic genes.
Mn3+‐rich Manganese Phosphate Targeted for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Chen Meijie , Peng Shaomin , Sun Ming , Han Shengbo , Zhou Zihao , Huang Leheng , Xu Yingying , Cheng Gao , Yu Lin
Published: July 2022

Manganese phosphate‐based materials show great potential in the electrochemical energy field due to the structurally flexible phosphate framework stabilizing active sites. However, the insufficient number of active sites causes unsatisfactory activity. Herein, we prepare Mn3(PO4)2 ⋅ 3H2O nanosheets via simple liquid‐phase precipitation with hydrogen peroxide as an oxidant, which conduces to expose more Mn3+ active sites, thereby accelerating the four‐electron transfer pathway during oxygen reduction reaction. Accordingly, the optimal catalyst (MnPi‐1.0) possesses excellent catalytic performance with a half‐wave potential of 0.81 V and a diffusion‐limited current density of 5.38 mA cm−2 in contrast to the 0.73 V and 5.07 mA cm−2 of the pristine one, respectively. Furthermore, the zinc‐air battery based on MnPi‐1.0 delivers a high peak power density (132 mW cm−2) and outstanding spcific capacity(797 mAh gZn−1). This work provides a facile and feasible solution to tune the density of active sites of manganese phosphate‐based materials for favorable electrochemical performance.
Cefiderocol Dosing for Patients Receiving Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Wei Xiaohui , Naseer Shabnam , Weinstein Edward A. , Iarikov Dmitri , Nambiar Sumathi , Reynolds Kellie S. , Jang Seong H.
Published: July 2022

In this report, we describe our scientific approach for including effluent flow rate (QE)–based dosing recommendations of cefiderocol for patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in the product labeling. The total clearance (CL) of cefiderocol in patients receiving CRRT was estimated as the sum of patients’ nonrenal clearance (CLnonrenal) and extracorporeal clearance by CRRT (CLCRRT), based on the following rationale: (a) The renal clearance (CLrenal) of cefiderocol is assumed to be negligible in patients receiving CRRT, (b) CLnonrenal represents the CRRT patients’ own remaining systemic clearance and is estimated from the observed clearance in participants with creatinine clearance (CLcr) < 15 mL/minute without undergoing hemodialysis, and (c) CLCRRT was estimated by the product of unbound (free) fraction of plasma drug concentration (fu) and QE because the free fraction of low‐molecular‐weight compounds like cefiderocol (752 Da) can be completely filtered by CRRT, regardless of CRRT modality. Hence, cefiderocol CL in CRRT patients was calculated by the equation of CL = CLnonrenal + fu × QE. Accordingly, the cefiderocol dosing regimens for patients receiving CRRT in clinically relevant ranges of QE were determined with the goal of achieving an average daily area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) observed in patients not receiving CRRT. Subsequently, pharmacokinetic (PK) simulations demonstrated that cefiderocol PK profiles following the QE‐based dosing in patients receiving CRRT would be similar to those in patients not receiving CRRT.
A robust controller design procedure for LCL‐type grid‐tied proton exchange membrane fuel cell system in harmonics‐polluted network
Authors: Hosseinpour Majid , Kholousi Amin , Poulad Alireza
Published: July 2022

Proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), due to its high efficiency and good stability, is one of the most efficient and effective sources of alternative renewable energy. The LCL filters are utilized to attenuate the harmonics caused by inverter‐based distributed power generation systems (DPGS). In this paper, a systematic robust control design is presented for an LCL‐type grid‐tied PEMFC inverter. The proposed nested control includes the capacitor current feedback and the outer grid current loops, considering the computational delays. The proposed control results in more accurate and realistic modeling to transfer the power of PEMFC and inject a high‐quality current into a weak and harmonics‐polluted network. Also, by utilizing the proposed method, the computational delays that affect the damping capability are eliminated, and the performance of the control system is improved. In addition, designing a virtual series and parallel impedances strengthens the phase and amplitude of the inverter output impedance. As a result, the robust operation of the inverter for significant changes in network impedance is improved, and the system well attenuates the mains voltage harmonics. The simulation results in Matlab/Simulink environment confirm the performance of the control system and the suitable quality of the injected current of the PEMFC system into the weak and harmonic‐polluted network.
Design of quasi‐Z source converter for vehicle to vehicle to battery charging application
Authors: Sarode (Ashtankar) Shilpa , Kadwane Sumant
Published: July 2022

The Quasi‐Z‐source converter (QZSC) is the favorite dc‐dc converter that can be applied to applications like EV battery charging, microgrid, distributed generator, etc. QZSC is the modified version of the Z‐source converter (ZSC) which has the additional qualities of uninterrupted input current and a broad range of input voltage over ZSC. In this article, QZSC is especially developed for the dc‐dc like vehicle‐to‐vehicle (V2V) battery charging application. Due to the availability of shoot‐through conditions, QZSC overcomes the burden of the additional dc‐dc booster, unlike a two‐stage converter. This additional benefit of the shoot‐through condition makes QZSC more worthy than a conventional converter. The elaborated design analysis of the QZSC is presented in this article which found reduced voltage stress across one of the capacitors, unlike the traditionalistic impedance source converter. The hardware prototype of QZSC is developed and experimental results are obtained. The experimental results are verified by using simulation and theoretical results. Experimental results suggest that the QZSC converter concept could be most suitable for the V2V battery charging applications. Simulation results are obtained for QZSC by using a matrix laboratory.
Formal institutional context in global strategy research: A layer cake perspective
Authors: Andrews Daniel S. , Fainshmidt Stav , Schotter Andreas P. J. , Gaur Ajai
Published: July 2022

Research summary

We offer a novel view of formal institutions as a layer cake, suggesting a structural relationship between higher‐level and lower‐level institutions. In this context, inter‐layer conflict imposes complex pressures on multinational corporations (MNCs). These tensions have become more rife amid the growth in global connectedness and the commensurate increase in the importance of within‐country differences. Drawing on political science and economic geography research, we introduce regime type and the distribution of economic resources as conditions under which inter‐layer conflict is most likely to arise. We leverage two caselets to illustrate the inter‐layer conflict and the novel response options MNCs can deploy. Our perspective advances the theoretical understanding of intra‐national institutional diversity, laying the groundwork for future research at the nexus of institutional theory and global strategy.

Managerial summary

Firms often encounter opposing pressures in their operating environments because institutions within the nation‐state impose misaligned policies. Despite acknowledging that such interactions exist, firms traditionally did not make it an integral part of their strategy. We demarcate how formal institutions cascade, forming a layer cake of relevant influences whereby the structural relationship between higher‐level and lower‐level institutions may impose complex pressures when in conflict. We turn to political science and economic geography literatures for explanations of when such conflict is most likely and offer a window into the responses by multinational firms using caselets within the COVID‐19 pandemic context. We offer new avenues for research on the ways in which institutions function to affect multinational firms in a global economy increasingly characterized by institutional complexity.
Patient‐centered appraisal of race‐free clinical risk assessment
Authors: Manski Charles F.
Published: July 2022

Until recently, there has been a consensus that clinicians seeking to assess patient risks of illness should condition risk assessments on all observed patient covariates with predictive power. The broad idea is that knowing more about patients enables more accurate predictions of their health risks and, hence, better clinical decisions. This consensus has recently unraveled with respect to a specific covariate, namely race. There have been increasing calls for race‐free risk assessment, arguing that using race to predict health risks contributes to racial disparities and inequities in health care. In some medical fields, leading institutions have recommended race‐free risk assessment. An important open question is how race‐free risk assessment would affect the quality of clinical decisions. Considering the matter from the patient‐centered perspective of medical economics yields a disturbing conclusion: Race‐free risk assessment would harm patients of all races.
A Look at Real‐World Transition‐Metal Thermochemistry and Kinetics with Local Hybrid Functionals
Authors: Grotjahn Robin , Kaupp Martin
Published: July 2022

Local hybrid functionals (LHs) use a position‐dependent admixture of exact exchange in real space, which has previously been shown to offer various advantages over global hybrids and the potential to construct functionals with wide applicability. While main‐group thermochemistry and kinetics and other properties have already been studied extensively, no broad and systematic investigation for the energetics of transition‐metal complexes has been reported so far for LHs. To close this gap, we evaluate eight LHs for three previously reported test sets on barrier heights and reaction energies of real‐world transition metal complexes, in comparison with several other rung‐4 hybrid functionals. The recent LH20t‐D4 method emerges as the top‐performing functional for the overall benchmark, comparable to the simpler TPSS0‐D4 and slightly before the more complex range‐separated ωB97M‐V. But LH20t‐D4 and ωB97M‐V perform much better for main‐group energetics, making them overall more reliable tools to study organometallic reaction mechanisms. Given also its previously observed excellent performance for mixed‐valence systems, LH20t‐D4 is thus a widely applicable functional in both main‐group and transition‐metal chemistry, while also providing convincing accuracy for many spectroscopic properties. The earlier LH14t‐calPBE‐D4 local hybrid also performs well, while some first‐generation LHs fall behind.
Madres Latinas En Convivencia: A Family Reading Project
Authors: Delgado Perla , Larrotta Clarena
Published: July 2022

In all, 15 Latina mothers participated in a 10‐week bilingual family reading project implemented at a public elementary school in rural Texas. Convivencia and pláticas were critical components for the implementation of the family reading project. Thus, the research question guiding the present article is as follows: How can pláticas with Latina mothers participating in a bilingual family reading project help us learn about their literacy interests and learning needs? Data sources included demographic questionnaire, research journal, family memory books, and video recorded interviews. The importance of convivencia emerged through the analysis of the data collected. Study findings underscore the conceptualization of convivencia as a way to explore personal and family stories, negotiating conflicting viewpoints, and being together. Similarly, pláticas allowed the participants to co‐construct knowledge, identify differences and commonalities, be vulnerable and reflective, as well as participate in dialogue about difficult topics.
Profiles and transition of mental health problems among Chinese adolescents: The predictive role of friendship quality, parental autonomy support, and psychological control
Authors: Liu Xinyi , Cui Lijuan , Wu Hang , Liu Ben , Yang Ying
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Mental health problems have become a global crisis of the 21st century, with adolescence being a typical period of the outbreak of these problems. However, the profiles and transition of mental health problems in Chinese adolescents remain unclear. In addition, protective and risk factors that shape mental health problems require further clarification.

Methods

We measured depression, anxiety, and stress as indicators to identify the profiles and transition patterns of mental health problems among Chinese adolescents, as well as environment‐related predictors (i.e., friendship quality, parental psychological control, and autonomy support). A total of 722 participants (376 females;Mage = 15.21,SDage = 0.74) completed a set of questionnaires at two time points with a 1‐year interval (T1: November 2018; T2: November 2019).

Results

The profile analysis revealed two groups:healthyandtroubled. The development of mental health problems included four trajectories: steady low, steady high, increasing, and decreasing. Results indicated that parental autonomy support and friendship quality exerted protective and buffering effects, whereas parental psychological control acted as a risk factor for mental health problem profiles. Furthermore, friendship quality had a unique predictive effect on the decreasing trajectory.

Conclusions

The profiles of mental health problems showed high concurrency of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms, and developmental trajectories were largely stable over time. Friendship quality, parental autonomy support, and psychological control predicted the profiles of the mental health problems of Chinese adolescents, and only friendship quality predicted the transition from atroubledtohealthyprofile over 1 year.
A development of a graph‐based ensemble machine learning model for skin sensitization hazard and potency assessment
Authors: Jeon Byoungjun , Lim Min Hyuk , Choi Tae Hyun , Kang Byeong‐Cheol , Kim Sungwan
Published: July 2022

Many defined approaches (DAs) for skin sensitization assessment based on the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) have been developed to replace animal testing because the European Union has banned animal testing for cosmetic ingredients. Several DAs have demonstrated that machine learning models are beneficial. In this study, we have developed an ensemble prediction model utilizing the graph convolutional network (GCN) and machine learning approach to assess skin sensitization. The model integrates in silico parameters and data from alternatives to animal testing of well‐defined AOP to improve DA predictivity. Multiple ensemble models were created using the probability produced by the GCN with six physicochemical properties, direct peptide reactivity assay, KeratinoSens™, and human cell line activation test (h‐CLAT), using a multilayer perceptron approach. Models were evaluated by predicting the testing set's human hazard class and three potency classes (strong, weak, and non‐sensitizer). When the GCN feature was used, 11 models out of 16 candidates showed the same or improved accuracy in the testing set. The ensemble model with the feature set of GCN, KeratinoSens™, and h‐CLAT produced the best results with an accuracy of 88% for assessing human hazards. The best three‐class potency model was created with the feature set of GCN and all three assays, resulting in 64% accuracy. These results from the ensemble approach indicate that the addition of the GCN feature could provide an improved predictivity of skin sensitization hazard and potency assessment.
CuO‐SiO2 based nanocomposites: Synthesis, characterization, photocatalytic, antileishmanial, and antioxidant studies
Authors: Yaseen Muhammad , Farooq Saima , Khan Abbas , Shah Nasrullah , Shah Luqman Ali , Bibi Shaista , Khan Imdad Ullah , Ahmad Sajjad
Published: July 2022

The abatement of toxic pollutants and drug‐resistant pathogens from water is one of the major environmental issues. In this work, we are reporting the preparation, detailed characterization and photocatalytic degradation, and biological activities of bimetallic oxides (CuO‐SiO2) nanocomposite. For this purpose, CuO, SiO2 nanoparticles, and CuO‐SiO2 nanocomposites were successfully synthesized through sol–gel process. The nanoparticles and nanocomposite were prepared by taking the Cu(NO3)2.3H2O as copper oxide precursor and TEOS as silica precursor using absolute ethanol and water as solvents The molar ratio of TEOS: Glycerol: H2O used was 1.5:1:6.6 respectively. The synthesized nanoparticles and nanocomposites were characterized by using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET). The nanocomposites and individual nanoparticles were then applied as catalysts for their activities toward catalytic/photocatalytic degradation of crystal violet (CV) dye in an aqueous medium. The degradation progress was monitored by UV–Visible spectroscopic analysis. It was found that CuO‐SiO2 nanocomposite shows good photocatalytic activities toward the removal of crystal violet dye as compared to the catalytic activities of its individual constitutes. The antileishmanial and antioxidant activities results indicate that synthesized materials have promising biological attributes.
Extracellular vesicles and lipoproteins – Smart messengers of blood cells in the circulation
Authors: Nguyen Phuong H.D. , Le Anh Hong , Pek Jonetta Shi Qi , Pham Thach Tuan , Jayasinghe Migara Kavishka , Do Dang Vinh , Phung Cao Dai , Le Minh T.N.
Published: July 2022

Blood cell‐derived extracellular vesicles (BCEVs) and lipoproteins are the major circulating nanoparticles in blood that play an important role in intercellular communication. They have attracted significant interest for clinical applications, given their endogenous characteristics which make them stable, biocompatible, well tolerated, and capable of permeating biological barriers efficiently. In this review, we describe the basic characteristics of BCEVs and lipoproteins and summarize their implications in both physiological and pathological processes. We also outline well accepted workflows for the isolation and characterization of these circulating nanoparticles. Importantly, we highlight the latest progress and challenges associated with the use of circulating nanoparticles as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic interventions in multiple diseases. We spotlight novel engineering approaches and designs to facilitate the development of these nanoparticles by enhancing their stability, targeting capability, and delivery efficiency. Therefore, the present work provides a comprehensive overview of composition, biogenesis, functions, and clinical translation of circulating nanoparticles from the bench to the bedside.
Cefotaxime resistance in bile samples is an independent predictor of deep infectious complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy in patients with endoprosthesis
Authors: Robin Fabien , Livin Marie , Bergeat Damien , Triki Haitham , Gaignard Elodie , Cailleaux Marine , Cattoir Vincent , Boudjema Karim , Tattevin Pierre , Sulpice Laurent
Published: July 2022

Background

Bacteriobilia may increase the rate of deep infectious complications (DIC) after pancreaticoduodenectomy. To better adjust prophylactic and empirical antibacterial treatment, we aimed to characterize bacteriobilia in patients with preoperative endoprosthesis, and its association with postoperative DIC.

Methods

All patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy in our center between 2010 and 2019 were included. The association between microbiological findings from bile samples, and postoperative DIC was analyzed, and we compared microbiology data between 2010‐2014 and 2015‐2019 periods.

Results

We enrolled 578 patients (median age 67 years [59‐72], 58.7% males), of whom 220 (38.1%) had preoperative biliary endoprosthesis, with 197 (89.5%) positive preoperative bile samples pathogens were Enterobacterales, enterococci, and Candida albicans. The incidence of DIC was similar in patients with or without endoprosthesis (20.4% vs 17.8%, P = .352). Bacterial isolates collected during 2015‐2019 were more resistant to cefotaxime than those recovered from 2010‐2014 (45.5% vs 25.5%, P = .009). The only independent risk factor for DIC in patients with endoprosthesis was cefotaxime resistance in bile (hazard ratio 3.027 [1.115‐8.216], P = .03).

Conclusions

The incidence of DIC is high after pancreaticoduodenectomy, with or without endoprosthesis, despite routine postoperative treatment. Cefotaxime resistance, the only independent predictor of DIC in patients with endoprosthesis, has increased over time. Hence, cefotaxime may no longer be an appropriate empirical treatment.
Trehalose‐6‐phosphate synthase influences polysaccharide synthesis and cell wall components in Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Chen Juhong , Fan Junpei , Liu Weidong , Wang Zi , Ren Ang , Shi Liang
Published: July 2022

Trehalose‐6‐phosphate synthase (TPS) is a key enzyme that participates in trehalose metabolism, which can synthesize trehalose in a two‐step pathway with trehalose phosphatase, but its role in fungi is rarely studied, especially in large basidiomycetes. In this study, the tps gene of Ganoderma lucidum was cloned and named as gltps. And gltps‐silenced strains were constructed by RNA interference. In this study, it is found that the extracellular polysaccharide content increased 1.6–2‐fold, but there was no significant change on intracellular polysaccharide content in gltps‐silenced strains compared with the wild‐type (WT) strain. Furthermore, the cell wall compositions of the gltps‐silenced strains were also altered, which showed that the chitin and β‐1,3‐glucan contents were significantly decreased. Compared with WT, the concentration of chitin decreased by 20%–50% and that of β‐1, 3‐glucan decreased by 15%–30%. The study found that the cells of gltps‐silenced strains were more sensitive to cell wall stress, which might be due to changes in the compounds and structure of the cell wall. These results showed that gltps had an important effect on carbohydrate metabolism of G. lucidum cells.
Interdecadal variation in atmospheric water vapour content over East Asia during winter and the relationship with autumn Arctic sea ice
Authors: He Wenyue , Sun Bo , Ma Jiehua , Wang Huijun
Published: July 2022

This study focused on the interdecadal variability in water vapour content (WVC) over East Asia during winter and its associated mechanisms. The interdecadal variation in the WVC over East Asia during winter was investigated using the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) method. The leading mode (EOF1, explained variance is 52.7%) of interdecadal variability in the WVC, which explains most of the interdecadal variation, exhibits a monopole pattern characterized by consistent WVC anomalies over East Asia. The mechanisms associated with the interdecadal variability in winter WVC over East Asia were further investigated, and it was found that the interdecadal variability in winter WVC over East Asia is modulated by three water vapour transport (WVT) branches from the eastern, western, and southern boundaries of East Asia that are associated with Eurasian winter circulation. Further analyses revealed that increased sea ice concentration over the Barents‐Kara Sea (SIC‐BKS) in October–November (ON) serves as the source of wave activity flux and stimulates a stationary wave train along the Eurasian continent to change the downstream atmospheric circulation. As a response, an abnormal cyclone, an abnormal anticyclone, and an abnormal cyclone are triggered over western Siberia, the northern area of East Asia, and the southern area of East Asia, which are together favourable for WVC sufficiency over East Asia. Sensitivity experiments by the Community Atmosphere Model, version 4 (CAM4) using sea ice forcing in the Barents Sea yield similar results to the observed data, further confirming our conclusion. Therefore, the SIC‐BKS in ON may be an important potential predictor for the interdecadal variability in winter WVC over East Asia.
Impact of starch–lipid complexes on oil absorption of starch and its mechanism
Authors: Luo Shunjing , Xiong Shaobai , Li Xianbao , Hu Xiuting , Ye Jiangping , Liu Chengmei
Published: July 2022

Background

Worldwide, fried food has a huge demand and good development prospects. Low oil in foods is the standard that everyone is now pursuing for a healthy diet.

Results

The oil absorption behavior of rice starch during frying was investigated in the presence or absence of fatty acids or fatty acid esters with different carbon chain lengths. The complex formed between starch and fatty acids or fatty acid esters was dependent on lipid chain length, which was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction and complexing index. The formation of starch–lipid complexes could significantly reduce the oil absorption of starch, and the complexes with higher complexing index had lower oil absorption. The starch–palmitic acid complex showed the lowest oil absorption after frying, which was 14.06 g per 100 g lower than that of gelatinized starch. This was attributed to the ability of the palmitic acid to increase the density of starch crystalline polymorphs as well as their ability to complex with the amylose spiral cavity.

Conclusion

These results may be useful for development of healthier fried starch‐based foods with reduced oil contents. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Overexpression of circ PTK2 suppresses the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease via the miR‐200c/SIK2/PI3K/Akt axis
Authors: Li Yong , Cen Chao‐Qun , Liu Bo , Zhou Lu , Huang Xiang‐Miao , Liu Geng‐Yan
Published: July 2022

Excessive hepatic lipid accumulation is involved in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). A previous study showed that the circular RNA (circRNA) PTK2 was significantly downregulated in NAFLD mice. However, the detailed function of circ PTK2 in NAFLD remains unclear. A high‐fat diet (HFD) was used to establish a mouse model of NAFLD, and free fatty acid (FFA) treatment was used to establish an in vitro model of NAFLD. Oil red O staining was used to evaluate lipid accumulation. The pathological changes in mice were observed by HE staining. Western blotting and RT–qPCR were applied to assess protein and mRNA levels, respectively. A dual luciferase reporter assay and RIP were used to explore the relationship among circ PTK2, miR‐200c and SIK2. Circ PTK2 and SIK2 were downregulated and miR‐200c was upregulated in NAFLD. Upregulation of circ PTK2 reversed lipid accumulation in FFA‐treated HepG2 cells. Moreover, circ PTK2 bound to miR‐200c, and SIK2 was identified as the direct target of miR‐200c. Moreover, the miR‐200c inhibitor‐induced decrease in lipid accumulation was reversed by SIK2 knockdown. Furthermore, the impact of circ PTK2 overexpression on PI3K/Akt signaling was partially reversed by SIK2 silencing. Circ PTK2 overexpression alleviates NAFLD development via the miR‐200c/SIK2/PI3K/Akt axis. Thus, our work might provide new methods for NAFLD treatment.