bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardized uptake valuemax of the primary lesion combined with tumor markers for clinically predicting distant metastasis in de novo lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jin Baoli , Wen Xiaolian , Tian Hanji , Guo Hongxia , Hao Mingyan , Wu Jing , Li Xiaomin , Ren Yuejun , Wang Xin , Ren Xiaolu
Published: March 2024

Background

To examine standardized uptake valuemax of the primary lesion (pSUVmax) and tumor markers (TMs) for clinically predicting distant metastasis in novo lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

The current retrospective observational study examined individuals diagnosed with de novo lung adenocarcinoma at Shanxi Cancer Hospital between February 2015 and December 2019.

Results

Totally, 532 de novo lung adenocarcinoma cases were included. They were aged 60.8 ± 9.7 years and comprised 224 women and 268 patients with distant metastasis. The areas under the curves (AUCs) of pSUVmax, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), cytokeratin‐19 fragment (CYFRA21‐1), carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125), and Grade of TMs for predicting distant metastasis were 0.742, 0.601, 0.671, 0.700, 0.736, and 0.745, respectively. The combination of pSUVmax, LDH, CEA, CYFRA21‐1, CA125, and grade of TMs in predicting distant metastasis had an AUC value of 0.816 (95%CI: 0.781–0.851), with sensitivity of 89.2%, specificity of 58.7%, positive predictive value of 73.7%, and negative predictive value of 79.7%, respectively.

Conclusions

pSUVmax combined with serum levels of LDH, CEA, CYFRA21‐1, CA125, and the grade of TMs may have good performance in predicting distant metastasis of de novo lung adenocarcinoma.
Patterns of follow‐up care in adult blood cancer survivors—Prospective evaluation of health‐related outcomes, resource use, and quality of life
Authors: Lax Hildegard , Baum Julia , Lehmann Nils , Merkel‐Jens Anja , Beelen Dietrich W. , Jöckel Karl‐Heinz , Dührsen Ulrich
Published: March 2024

Background

Information about follow‐up care in blood cancer survivors is limited. The questionnaire‐based “Aftercare in Blood Cancer Survivors” (ABC) study aimed to identify patterns of follow‐up care in Germany and compare different types of follow‐up institutions.

Methods

The study's 18‐month prospective part compared the follow‐up institutions identified in the preceding retrospective part (academic oncologists, community oncologists, primary care physicians). The questionnaires were completed by the follow‐up physicians.

Results

Of 1070 physicians named by 1479 blood‐cancer survivors, 478 (44.7%) consented to participate. For provision of care, most oncologists relied on published guidelines, while most primary care physicians depended on information from other physicians. Survivors with a history of allogeneic transplantation or indolent lymphoma were mainly seen by academic oncologists, whereas survivors with monoclonal gammopathy, multiple myeloma, or myeloproliferative disorders were often seen by community oncologists, and survivors with a history of aggressive lymphoma or acute leukemia by primary care physicians. Detection of relapse and secondary diseases was consistently viewed as the most important follow‐up goal. Follow‐up visits were most extensively documented by academic oncologists (574 of 1045 survivors cared for, 54.9%), followed by community oncologists (90/231, 39.0%) and primary care physicians (51/203, 25.1%). Relapse and secondary disease detection rates and the patients' quality of life were similar at the three institutions. Laboratory tests were most often ordered by academic oncologists, and imaging by primary care physicians. Psychosocial issues and preventive care were more often addressed by primary care physicians than by oncologists.

Conclusions

Patients at high risk of relapse or late complications were preferentially treated by academic oncologists, while patients in stable condition requiring continuous monitoring were also seen by community oncologists, and patients with curable diseases in long‐term remission by primary care physicians. For the latter, transfer of follow‐up care from oncologists to well‐informed primary care providers appears feasible.
Assessing EGFR‐mutated NSCLC with bone metastasis: Clinical features and optimal treatment strategy
Authors: Chen Wei‐Chun , Cheng Wen‐Chien , Chen Chieh‐Lung , Liao Wei‐Chih , Chen Chia‐Hung , Chen Hung‐Jen , Tu Chih‐Yen , Lin Chi‐Chen , Hsia Te‐Chun
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aimed to examine the clinical characteristics of bone metastasis (BoM) in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation and to identify the most effective treatment strategy using EGFR–tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).

Methods

The study included patients with stage IV EGFR‐mutated NSCLC who were receiving first‐line treatment with EGFR–TKIs between January 2014 and December 2020. These patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of BoM at the time of initial diagnosis. The BoM group was further subdivided based on whether they received denosumab or not.

Results

The final analysis included 247 patients. Those with BoM at initial diagnosis had shorter progression‐free survival (12.6 vs. 10.5 months, p = 0.002) and overall survival (OS) (49.7 vs. 30.9 months, p = 0.002) compared to those without BoM. There was a difference in the location of metastatic sites between the two groups, with a higher incidence of extrathoracic metastasis in the BoM group (p < 0.001). The incidence of T790M was higher in patients with BoM than in those without (47.4% vs. 33.9%, p = 0.042). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that sequential osimertinib treatment and the addition of antiangiogenic therapy (AAT) and denosumab therapy improved OS in patients with BoM.

Conclusions

The presence of BoM is a negative prognostic factor for NSCLC patients with an EGFR mutation, possibly due to the presence of extrathoracic metastases. However, adding AAT and denosumab, along with sequential osimertinib, to the treatment regimen for patients with BoM can improve survival outcomes.
Selective protein quantification on continuous chromatography equipment with limited absorbance sensing: A partial least squares and statistical wavelength selection solution
Authors: Gough Ian A. , Rassenberg Sarah , Velikonja Claire , Corbett Brandon , Latulippe David R. , Mhaskar Prashant
Published: March 2024

Real‐time selective protein quantification is an integral component of operating continuous chromatography processes. Partial least squares models fit with spectroscopic UV‐Vis absorbance data have demonstrated the ability to selectively quantify proteins. With standard continuous chromatography equipment that is only capable of measuring absorbance at a few user‐defined wavelengths, the problem of selecting appropriate wavelengths that maximize the measurement capability of the instrument remains unaddressed. Therefore, we propose a method for selecting wavelengths for continuous chromatography equipment. We illustrate our method using sets of protein mixtures composed of bovine serum albumin and lysozyme. The first step is to refine the raw wavelength set with a statistical t‐test and an absorbance magnitude test. Then, the wavelengths within the refined spectroscopic range are ranked. Three existing techniques are evaluated – sequential forward search, variable importance to projection scores, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. The best technique (in this case, sequential forward search) determines a subset of three wavelengths for further evaluation on the BioSMB PD. We use an exhaustive approach to determine the final wavelength set. We show that soft sensor models trained from the method's wavelength selections can quantify the two proteins more accurately than from the wavelength set of 230, 260 and 280 nm, by a factor of four. The method is shown to determine appropriate wavelengths for different path lengths and protein concentration ranges. Overall, we provide a tool that alleviates the analytical bottleneck for practitioners seeking to develop advanced monitoring and control methods on standard equipment.
Construction of Ultrafine PtIr Clusters Supported on Co3O4 Nanoflowers for Enhanced Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Zhang Longtao , Zhang Mingliang , Zhang Yu , Zhuo Wei , Chen Tong , Fang Yilin , Hong Jiaxiang , Wei Hehe , Gong Xue‐Qing
Published: March 2024

Green hydrogen production through electrochemical overall water splitting has suffered from sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) kinetics, inferior conversion efficiency, and high cost. Herein, ultrafine PtIr clusters are synthesized via an electrodeposition method and decorated on the Co3O4 nanoflowers assembled by nanowires (PtIr‐Co3O4). The encouraging performances in electrochemical OER and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are achieved over the PtIr‐Co3O4 catalyst, with the overpotentials as low as 410 and 237 mV at 100 mA cm−2, respectively, outperforming the commercial IrO2 and Pt/C catalysts. Due to the ultralow loading of PtIr clusters, the PtIr‐Co3O4 catalyst exhibits 1270 A gIr−1 for OER at the overpotential of 400 mV. Our detailed analyses also show that the strong interactions between the ultrafine PtIr clusters and the Co3O4 nanoflowers enable the PtIr‐Co3O4 catalyst to afford 10 mA cm−2 for the overall water splitting at the potential of 1.57 V, accompanied by high durability for 100 h.
Heteroatom‐Promoted Polyhexagonal Saddle‐Shaped Molecular Structures and their Supramolecular Coassembly with C60
Authors: Thilagar Pakkirisamy , Nandi Rajendra Prasad , Ghosh Subhajit
Published: March 2024

Molecules with curved architecture can exhibit unique optoelectronic properties due to the concave‐convex π‐surface. However, synthesizing negatively curved saddle‐shaped aromatic systems has been challenging due to the internal structural strain. Herein, we report the facile synthesis of two polyhexagonal molecular systems, 1 and 2, with saddle shape geometry by judiciously varying the aromatic moiety, avoiding the harsh synthetic methods as that of heptagonal aromatic saddle systems. The unique geometry preferences of B, N, and S furnish suitable curvature to the molecules, featuring saddle shape. The saddle geometry also enables them to interact with fullerene C60, and the supramolecular interactions of fullerene C60 with 1 and 2 modify their optoelectronic properties. Crystal structure analysis reveals that 1, with a small π‐surface, forms a double columnar array of fullerenes in the solid state. In contrast, 2 with a large π‐surface produces a supramolecular capsule entrapping two discrete fullerenes. The intermolecular interactions between B, N, S, and the aryl‐π surface of the host and C60 guest are the stabilizing factors for creating these supramolecular structures. Comprehensive computational, optical, and Raman spectroscopic studies establish the charge transfer interactions between B−N doped heterocycle host and fullerene C60 guest.
Pancreatic Crosstalk in the Disease Setting: Understanding the Impact of Exocrine Disease on Endocrine Function
Authors: Villaca Catharina B.P. , Mastracci Teresa L.
Published: March 2024

The exocrine and endocrine are functionally distinct compartments of the pancreas that have traditionally been studied as separate entities. However, studies of embryonic development, adult physiology, and disease pathogenesis suggest there may be critical communication between exocrine and endocrine cells. In fact, the incidence of the endocrine disease diabetes secondary to exocrine disease/dysfunction ranges from 25% to 80%, depending on the type and severity of the exocrine pathology. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate how exocrine‐endocrine “crosstalk” may impact pancreatic function. In this article, we discuss common exocrine diseases, including cystic fibrosis, acute, hereditary, and chronic pancreatitis, and the impact of these exocrine diseases on endocrine function. Additionally, we review how obesity and fatty pancreas influence exocrine function and the impact on cellular communication between the exocrine and endocrine compartments. Interestingly, in all pathologies, there is evidence that signals from the exocrine disease contribute to endocrine dysfunction and the progression to diabetes. Continued research efforts to identify the mechanisms that underlie the crosstalk between various cell types in the pancreas are critical to understanding normal pancreatic physiology as well as disease states. © 2024 American Physiological Society.
Compr Physiol
14:5371‐5387, 2024.
Sustainability policies adoption within Italian Michelin‐starred restaurants: From external drivers to costs
Authors: Gazzola Patrizia , Vătămănescu Elena‐Mădălina , Zamai Matilde , Fassio Franco
Published: March 2024

The purpose of the research is to investigate the increasing importance of the role of sustainability in high‐end restaurants, specifically in those awarded Michelin stars. The focus is on the role sustainability plays as a crucial element in the state‐of‐the‐art of fine‐dining business given that restaurants are challenged to reconsider the noteworthiness of new sustainable imperatives. The study is based on a questionnaire survey carried out with over 70 owners and chefs from Italian Michelin‐starred restaurants. The results show a clear tendency towards sustainability and an increasing attention towards this trend, emphasizing its peculiarities for the restaurant industry, which is indicates profound changes. More specifically, 35% of the variance in internal sustainability policies adoption is explained by external drives related to sustainability and customers' demands of sustainability. The data collected relies on an Italian sample, but the results are useful to understand the sustainability imperatives for the Michelin‐stars restaurants worldwide as the Italian food service industry is often deemed as iconic. The study advances new insights into the future of the sustainable restaurant industry. The results of research are based on a novel research design and empirical survey capturing the state‐of‐the‐art of sustainability policies adoption in the case of Michelin‐starred restaurants.
Modified elliptic response bandpass filtering integrated high‐efficiency GaN MMIC power amplifier at 24–28 GHz
Authors: Dong Qin , Zhu Xiao‐Wei , Liu Rui‐Jia , Zhao Zi Ming , Chen Peng , Yang Xian‐Long , Cao Yang
Published: March 2024

In this paper, an out‐of‐band suppression enhanced high‐efficiency millimeter‐wave (mm‐wave) gallium nitride (GaN) microwave monolithic integrated circuit (MMIC) filtering power amplifier (FPA) is presented. A modified elliptic response bandpass filtering (BPF) output matching network (OMN) is used to achieve low loss and high out‐of‐band rejection. The circuit of the presented BPF OMN is given and its synthesized method is introduced. The simulated S‐parameters show that the OMN has a low‐loss in‐band response and a desired out‐of‐band rejection performance with two transmission zeros (TZs). To demonstrate this idea, a two‐stage 24–28‐GHz GaN MMIC PA is designed and implemented in a 0.15‐μm GaN‐on‐SiC process, with a mask area of 2.4 × 1.0 mm2. Experimental results show that the realized MMIC PA achieves a small signal gain of 18.8 dB from 24 to 28 GHz with ±1.2‐dB gain flatness and 40‐dB rejection at 19.43 and 33.8 GHz. The saturated power‐added efficiency (PAE) is higher than 29% from 24 to 28 GHz, with a peak PAE of 36.3% at 27 GHz. The output power is within the range of 33.8 to 35.6 dBm in the operating band. For a 100‐MHz five‐carrier LTE signal, the PA can achieve ACLR better than −40 dBc over the band with digital predistortion.
A Lambert importance model‐based reliability design method for power converters in switched reluctance motor systems
Authors: Xu Shuai , Zeng Hui , Qi Ge , Song Fuhu , Liu Chen
Published: March 2024

The reliability of power converters is crucial for achieving high‐performance operation in switched reluctance motor (SRM) systems. However, there is a notable deficiency in reliability‐oriented design of power converters that can effectively integrate both static and dynamic reliability indicators. To address this issue, this paper proposes a reliability design methodology for power converters based on the Lambert importance model, aimed at enhancing reliability of SRM systems. Firstly, the modeling principles of Lambert importance model are presented. Subsequently, a reliability design method is proposed to maximize reliability within a unit economic cost framework. Especially, the proposed design scheme is designed to maximize reliability enhancement potential through a two‐pronged approach: strategic topology selection informed by potential reliability assessments and component selection guided by importance calculations. Meanwhile, dynamic reliability evaluation is carried out to form a double‐loop reliability feedback and increase the credibility of design scheme. Finally, an example is developed to verify the validity of proposed reliability design scheme.
Progress and challenges of in vivo flow cytometry and its applications in circulating cells of eyes
Authors: Lin Wei , Wang Peng , Qi Yingxin , Zhao Yanlong , Wei Xunbin
Published: March 2024

Circulating inflammatory cells in eyes have emerged as early indicators of numerous major diseases, yet the monitoring of these cells remains an underdeveloped field. In vivo flow cytometry (IVFC), a noninvasive technique, offers the promise of real‐time, dynamic quantification of circulating cells. However, IVFC has not seen extensive applications in the detection of circulating cells in eyes, possibly due to the eye's unique physiological structure and fundus imaging limitations. This study reviews the current research progress in retinal flow cytometry and other fundus examination techniques, such as adaptive optics, ultra‐widefield retinal imaging, multispectral imaging, and optical coherence tomography, to propose novel ideas for circulating cell monitoring.
The association between gender‐affirming care and disordered eating in transgender and gender diverse individuals: Exploring appearance congruence and gender‐related motivating factors for weight loss
Authors: Chakkour Em , Simone Melissa , Askew Autumn J. , Blashill Aaron J.
Published: March 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to explore between‐group differences across different stages of gender‐affirming care, and associations between appearance congruence, gender‐related motivations for weight loss, and disordered eating in transgender and gender expansive (TGE) individuals.

Method

A total of 160 TGE adults (aged 18–30) were recruited across the United States. Participants completed a comprehensive online survey. Data were analyzed using generalized linear models and bivariate correlations.

Results

Significant differences in appearance congruence among participants at different transition stages were revealed, with the group that achieved their desired transition reporting the highest appearance congruence compared to all other groups. Furthermore, gender‐related motivations for weight loss were significantly lower in individuals who achieved their desired transition compared to those with no plans to transition.

Discussion

Findings suggest significantly higher appearance congruence in those who achieved their desired transition compared to other groups, and individuals who attained their desired transition exhibited significantly reduced gender‐related motivations for weight loss compared to those with no plans to transition. These findings underscore the potential psychological benefits associated with successful gender‐affirming care, highlighting its role not only in fostering appearance congruence but also in mitigating gender‐related motivations for weight loss among TGE individuals. Future research should include larger and more diverse samples, longitudinal designs, and considerations of other factors influencing body image outcomes in this population.

Public Significance

This study sheds light on the crucial relationship between gender‐affirming care and body image outcomes in TGE individuals. Understanding how appearance congruence and gender‐related motivations for weight loss are associated with disordered eating can inform tailored support and interventions. By recognizing the association of gender affirming care and well‐being, healthcare providers can enhance care for TGE individuals.
Round‐robin test of all‐solid‐state battery with sulfide electrolyte assembly in coin‐type cell configuration
Authors: Beutl Alexander , Orue Ander , López‐Aranguren Pedro , Itziar Pitillas Martinez Andrea , Braga Maria Helena , Kekkonen Ville , Tron Artur
Published: March 2024

The replacement of conventional lithium‐ion batteries with solid‐state batteries is currently under investigation by many players both from academia and industry. Sulfide‐based electrolytes are among the materials that are regarded as most promising, especially for application in the transport sector. The performance of anode, cathode, and solid electrolyte materials of this type of solid electrolyte is typically evaluated using manually assembled cells such as Swagelok cells, EL‐CELLs, and in‐house built pressure devices. Coin cells, however, are often disregarded. Though coin cells cannot accurately predict how a material will perform in an end‐use application battery cell format, they are easy to assemble and can provide reproducible data compared to the other cell types, which make them an interesting option for testing the materials under conditions more relevant for their envisioned application. The coin cell preparation method presented in this work has been evaluated interlaboratory for reproducibility and, in addition, can be modified depending on the optimization parameters of the solid electrolyte, cathode material, bilayer comprised on cathode and solid electrolyte, lithium metal anode, and cell in general. Besides, an interlab round‐robin test (RRT) is carried out between four laboratories, measuring defined electrochemical tests of sulfide solid‐state batteries in coin cell configuration. This RRT for the preparation of coin cell solid‐state batteries with sulfide solid electrolyte, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides cathode, and lithium metal anode is intended for academic researchers and provides guidelines of research in this field.
ChatGPT versus Bard: A comparative study
Authors: Ahmed Imtiaz , Kajol Mashrafi , Hasan Uzma , Datta Partha Protim , Roy Ayon , Reza Md. Rokonuzzaman
Published: March 2024

The rapid progress in conversational AI has given rise to advanced language models capable of generating human‐like texts. Among these models, ChatGPT and Bard, developed by OpenAI and Google AI respectively, have gained significant attention. With their wide range of functionalities, such as human‐like response generation, proficiency in professional exams, complex problem solving, and more, these models have captured interest. This study presents a comprehensive survey exploring and comparing the capabilities and features of ChatGPT and Bard. We delve into their architectures, training methodologies, performance evaluations, and limitations across various domains. Ethical considerations such as biases and potential misconduct are also examined. Our findings highlight ChatGPT's exceptional performance, positioning it as a leading model. This survey is a vital resource for scholars, innovators, and interested parties operating within the domain of conversational artificial intelligence, offering valuable insights for the advancement of cutting‐edge language models.
Notes on Asian Orchidaceae – I: Cremastra appendiculata var. appendiculata and Hemipilia nana
Authors: Kumar Pankaj
Published: March 2024

Nervilia gleadowii described from Western Himalaya and Cremastra amabilis described from China, are placed under the synonymy of Cremastra appendiculata var. appendiculata based on morphological similarities. Orchis chusua var. nana is resurrected at species rank, and, to accommodate it in the genus Hemipilia, following the current taxonomic trends, a new combination of Hemipilia nana is published. This name had six syntypes available (all belonging to R. Pantling 326), one of which is designated here as a lectotype. Apetalanthe gracilis described from Vietnam, is reduced to the synonymy of H. nana and accordingly, Apetalanthe is reduced to Hemipilia (because A. gracilis is the type species of this monotypic genus).
Can pain be self‐managed? Pain change in vulnerable participants to a health education programme
Authors: Faurie Charlotte , Alvergne Alexandra , Cheng Demi , Duflos Claire , Elstgeest Liset , Ferreira Rosanna , Raat Hein , Valsecchi Verushka , Pilotto Alberto , Baker Graham , Pisano Marta M. , Pers Yves‐Marie
Published: March 2024

Chronic pain exerts a significant impact on the quality of life, giving rise to both physical and psycho‐social vulnerabilities. It not only leads to direct costs associated with treatments, but also results in indirect costs due to the reduced productivity of affected individuals. Chronic conditions can be improved by reducing modifiable risk factors. Various educational programs, including the Chronic Disease Self‐Management Programme (CDSMP), have demonstrated the advantages of enhancing patient empowerment and health literacy. Nevertheless, their efficacy in addressing pain symptoms has received limited attention, especially concerning vulnerable populations. This research aims to assess the effectiveness of the CDSMP in alleviating pain among socio‐economically vulnerable participants with chronic conditions. By accounting for a wide range of variables, and using data from the EFFICHRONIC project (EU health programme), we investigated the changes in pain levels after the intervention, among 1070 participants from five European countries. Our analyses revealed a significant reduction in pain following the intervention. This finding supports the notion that training programs can effectively ameliorate pain and alleviate its impact on the quality of life, particularly in vulnerable populations. Younger participants, as well as those with higher education levels and individuals experiencing higher levels of pain at baseline, were more likely to experience a reduction in their pain levels. These findings underscore the importance of recognising the social determinants of health.

The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ISRCTN70517103).
Characterization of Mitoribosomal Small Subunit unit genes related immune and pharmacogenomic landscapes in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wei Zhihao , Liu Chenchen , Liang Jiaqian , Zhou Xuan , Xue Kaming , Wang Keshan , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: March 2024

Mitoribosomes are essential for the production of biological energy. The Human Mitoribosomal Small Subunit unit (MRPS) family, responsible for encoding mitochondrial ribosomal small subunits, is actively engaged in protein synthesis within the mitochondria. Intriguingly, MRPS family genes appear to play a role in cancer. A multistep process was employed to establish a risk model associated with MRPS genes, aiming to delineate the immune and pharmacogenomic landscapes in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). MRPScores were computed for individual patients to assess their responsiveness to various treatment modalities and their susceptibility to different therapeutic targets and drugs. While MRPS family genes have been implicated in various cancers as oncogenes, our findings reveal a contrasting tumor suppressor role for MRPS genes in ccRCC. Utilizing an MRPS‐related risk model, we observed its excellent prognostic capability in predicting survival outcomes for ccRCC patients. Remarkably, the subgroup with high MRPS‐related scores (MRPScore) displayed poorer prognosis but exhibited a more robust response to immunotherapy. Through in silico screening of 2183 drug targets and 1646 compounds, we identified two targets (RRM2 and OPRD1) and eight agents (AZ960, carmustine, lasalocid, SGI‐1776, AZD8055_1059, BPD.00008900_1998, MK.8776_2046, and XAV939_1268) with potential therapeutic implications for high‐MRPScore patients. Our study represents the pioneering effort in proposing that molecular classification, diagnosis, and treatment strategies can be formulated based on MRPScores. Indeed, a high MRPScore profile appears to elevate the risk of tumor progression and mortality, potentially through its influence on immune regulation. This suggests that the MRPS‐related risk model holds promise as a prognostic predictor and may offer novel insights into personalized therapeutic strategies.
Preferences and willingness to pay for a novel carbon label: A choice experiment in the United States
Authors: Lin Wen , Nayga Rodolfo M. , Yang Wei
Published: March 2024

This study investigates how US consumers respond to and value a new technology‐based carbon label on food products. Results indicate that individual valuation of the carbon‐labeled bread is $4/20 oz, marginally lower than the valuation of the conventional and organic bread products. Moreover, individuals belonging to certain market segments, such as non‐White, liberal, and well‐educated consumers, and those having a high level of knowledge about the causes of climate change, exhibit a higher valuation for the novel carbon label.
Evaluation of a student telehealth rotation at the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Authors: McCormick Elena S. , Graham Roseanna , Alraqiq Hosam , Kresch Steven
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the impact of a telehealth rotation on the perceived benefits and challenges of telehealth use among third‐year dental students at the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (CDM).

Methods

A newly implemented weeklong telehealth rotation at CDM engaged all 95 third‐year dental students from the 2022 graduating class through assigned readings and virtual interaction with patients. The telehealth rotation involves virtual visits with patients for screening and triage. An ongoing retrospective assessment of the students’ post‐rotation evaluation was analyzed qualitatively to identify emerging themes and was coded to describe students’ attitudes and beliefs about telehealth.

Results

Students reported that the greatest benefit of telehealth is logistical convenience, while the greatest challenge to telehealth is related to the use of technology. After the telehealth rotation, students reported improvement in their clinically relevant skills and knowledge, including patient education, facilitating access to care, and communication skills.

Conclusions

The skills reported by students as the most important learning takeaway from the telehealth rotation are applicable to many aspects of care delivery, beyond the scope of telehealth. The incorporation of telehealth education into dental curricula allows students to improve essential clinically relevant skills and knowledge beyond the procedural skills emphasized during in‐person patient appointments.
Association of HBV serological markers with host antiviral immune response relevant hepatic inflammatory damage in chronic HBV infection
Authors: Jiang Bei , Wang Leijie , Liu Huan , Wang Lin , Su Rui , Xu Liang , Wei Guochao , Li Jia , Lu Fengmin , Chen Xiangmei
Published: March 2024

The natural progression of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is dynamic, but the longitudinal landscape of HBV serological markers with host antiviral immune response relevant hepatic inflammatory damage remains undetermined. To this issue, we studied the association of HBV serological markers with the severity of hepatic inflammatory damage and enumerated HBV‐specific T cells using the cultured enzyme‐linked immune absorbent spot (ELISpot). Five hundred and twenty‐four treatment‐naïve chronic HBV infection patients were enrolled. The Spearman correlation analysis revealed that in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐positive patients, all HBV virologic indicators negatively correlated with liver inflammatory damage and fibrosis (p < 0.01). Stronger correlations were accessed in the subgroup of HBeAg‐positive patients with HBV DNA > 2 × 106 IU/mL (p < 0.01), whereas negative correlations disappeared in patients with HBV DNA ≤ 2 × 106 IU/mL. Surprisingly, in HBeAg‐negative patients, the HBV DNA level was positively correlated with the hepatic inflammatory damage (p < 0.01). The relationship between type Ⅱ interferon genes expression and HBV DNA levels also revealed a direct shift from the initial negative to positive in HBeAg‐positive patients with HBV DNA declined below 2 × 106 IU/mL. The number of HBV‐speciﬁc T cells were identiﬁed by interferon γ ELISpot assays and showed a significant increase from HBeAg‐positive to HBeAg‐negative group. The host's anti‐HBV immunity remains effective in HBeAg‐positive patients with HBV DNA levels exceeding 2 × 106 IU/mL, as it efficiently eliminates infected hepatocytes and inhibits HBV replication. However, albeit the increasing number of HBV‐specific T cells, the host antiviral immune response shifts towards dysfunctional when the HBV DNA load drops below this threshold, which causes more pathological damage and disease progression.
Precipitation over northern South America and the far‐eastern Pacific during ENSO: Phase synchronization at inter‐annual time scales
Authors: Salas Hernán D. , Builes‐Jaramillo Alejandro , Boers Niklas , Poveda Germán , Mesa Óscar J. , Kurths Jürgen
Published: March 2024

We investigated the influence of the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on inter‐annual precipitation variability in the far‐eastern Pacific (FEP) and northern South America (NSA) using an approach based on phase synchronization (PS). First, we carried out a detailed analysis of observational data to define the inter‐annual variability, eliminate the seasonal residual frequencies in hydro‐climatic anomalies, and assess the statistical significance of PS. Additionally, we characterized the seasonality of regional patterns of sea surface temperature, surface pressure levels, low‐level winds and precipitation anomalies associated with the ENSO states. We found that the positive (negative) precipitation anomalies experienced in the FEP and NSA differ from those previously reported in the literature. In particular, the Guianas (northeastern Amazon) and the Caribbean constitute two regions with negative (positive) rainfall anomalies during El Niño (La Niña), separated by a zone of non‐significant anomalies along the Orinoco Low‐level Jet corridor. Moreover, we showed that the ENSO signal is phase‐locked with inter‐annual rainfall and low‐level wind variability in most of the study regions. Furthermore, we found consistency in the PS between the Central and Eastern Pacific El Niño indices and hydroclimatic anomalies over the Pacific. However, some areas exhibited PS, although they did not show significant precipitation anomalies, suggesting that the influence of ENSO on tropical climatology manifests not only in terms of the magnitude of anomalies but also in terms of the phases only. Our approach advances the understanding of climatic anomalies in tropical regions and provides new insights into the non‐linear interactions between ENSO and hydroclimatic processes in tropical Americas.
Future precipitation changes in California: Comparison of CMIP5 and CMIP6 intermodel spread and its drivers
Authors: Petrova Desislava , Tarin‐Carrasco Patricia , Sekulic Aleksandar , Lukovic Jelena , Reniu Maria Gali , Rodo Xavier , Cvijanovic Ivana
Published: March 2024

California is one of the major uncertainty hotspots for climate change, as climate models have historically been split between projecting wetter and drier future conditions over the region. We analysed the future (mid‐century and end‐century) projections of California's winter precipitation changes from the latest Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6), and studied its respective model agreement in comparison to the previous CMIP5 projections. Over northern California more than two thirds of the models in each ensemble agree on wetter future conditions. However, over southern California both ensembles show highly uncertain precipitation changes, with model projections almost equally divided between wetter or drier conditions. Projected end‐century precipitation changes range from −30% to +70% in CMIP5 and −20% to +80% in CMIP6. The CMIP6 ensemble mean changes are generally wetter and show larger model disagreement compared to CMIP5. Distribution of year‐to‐year precipitation indicates more extremely wet or dry years over southern California in CMIP6 compared to CMIP5, with some models suggesting that the five wettest years account for as much as ~55% of the 20‐year rainfall, and the five driest for as little as ~5%. Dynamically, both ensembles project weakened subsidence over Baja California that is stronger in CMIP6 than in CMIP5, in line with the wetter mean conditions in CMIP6. In the western tropical Pacific we find strengthening of the Hadley circulation in CMIP6 that is not seen in CMIP5, and more El Niño than La Niña conditions in the equatorial Pacific. More CMIP6 models also project an increase in ENSO events compared to CMIP5, and a stronger impact of ENSO on California's precipitation is found in CMIP6 than in CMIP5. These factors also contribute to larger model disagreement and more extremely wet or dry years over southern California in CMIP6.
Computational prediction of retention times of veterinary antibiotics obtained by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Rojas Cristian , Sarmiento Nicole , Ayora Emilia , Pis Diez Reinaldo
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Veterinary antibiotics are chemical compounds used to kill or inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria associated with animal diseases. These molecules can be defined by their retention times (tR) in liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS). One strategy to predict the tR of new veterinary antibiotics is the development of predictive quantitative structure–property relationships (QSPRs), which were used in this study.

RESULTS

A database of 122 antibiotics was selected in which the tR was measured using a Hypersil GOLD column. An optimal three‐feature model was developed by integrating the unsupervised variable reduction, replacement method variable subset selection, and multiple linear regression. The negligible differences among the coefficient of determination and the root‐mean‐square error for the training set (R2 = 0.902 and RMSEC = 0.871) and test set (Q2 = 0.854 and RMSEP = 1.064) indicate a stable and predictive model. In a further step, a more in‐depth explanation of the mechanism of action of each descriptor in predicting the tR is provided, with the construction of the theoretical chemical space for accurate predictions of new antibiotics.

CONCLUSION

The in silico model developed in this work identified three molecular descriptors associated with aqueous solubility, octanol–water partition coefficient, and the presence of negative and lipophilic atom pairs. The QSPR developed here could be implemented by agricultural and food chemists to identify and monitor existing and new antibiotics within the framework of LC–MS. The computational model was developed in accordance with five principles outlined by the Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synergistic enhancement of maize crop yield and nutrient assimilation via zinc oxide nanoparticles and phosphorus fertilization
Authors: Ahmad Ibrar , Ahmad Wiqar , Nepal Jaya , Junaid Muhammad Bilawal , Bukhari Najat A , Usman Muhammad , Ahmad Noman , Khan Rab Nawaz
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Low recovery of conventional fertilizers remains a significant bottleneck for maize production globally. In particular, with phosphate fertilization, zinc (Zn) is prone to precipitation in soil, reducing recovery of both phosphorus (P) and Zn by maize.

RESULTS

The present study was designed to investigate the synergistic effect of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) and P on maize crop growth, yield, and nutrient uptake under ZnO seed coating and foliar application in a randomized complete block design. However, plants were subjected to two ZnO NPs levels (0.5 and 12 kg ha−1) amended with two P levels (45 and 90 kg ha−1). ZnO NPs, especially in the form of foliar application, with a P dose of 90 Kg ha−1 significantly (P < 0.05) improved maize crop growth, yield, and nutrient uptake compared with control. In comparison with the control group, plants grown in these conditions absorbed higher levels of Zn and P. Zn uptake rose to 16.34 g ha−1, 137.88 g ha−1, and 166.89 g ha−1 in roots, grains, and stover respectively, and P uptake increased to 0.80 mg kg−1, 10.066 mg kg−1, and 12.17 mg kg−1 respectively. Additionally, seed emergence rate, plant height, and cob length increased by up to 2%, 1177 cm2, and 3.3 cm respectively compared with control. Furthermore, Zn use efficiency was increased up to 38.55% in ZnO NPs foliar application.

CONCLUSIONS

Application of ZnO NPs at 0.5 kg ha−1 in the form of foliar application with 90 kg ha−1 P dose produced a more pronounced increment in the parameters studied than ZnO NPs seed coating did. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Validity and Reliability of the Reflux Sign Assessment‐10 (RSA‐10)
Authors: Lechien Jérôme R. , De Marrez Lisa G. , Finck Camille , Saussez Sven
Published: March 2024

Objective

To develop and validate the Reflux Sign Assessment‐10 (RSA‐10) for documenting the physical findings of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD).

Methods

Patients with LPRD at the hypopharyngeal‐esophageal multichannel intraluminal impedance‐pH monitoring and asymptomatic individuals were consecutively recruited from two European hospitals. Three experienced otolaryngologists rated RSA‐10 in patients and controls for assessing internal validity. RSA‐10 was rated within a 7‐day period to assess test‐retest reliability. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's α in patients and controls. Convergent validity was evaluated through a correlation analysis between RSA‐10 and Reflux Finding Score (RFS). Interrater reliability was evaluated by comparing the RSA‐10 evaluations of the three otolaryngologists through Fleiss kappa. Pre‐ to posttreatment change of RSA‐10 was evaluated to assess responsiveness to change. The RSA‐10 thresholds were examined by receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

Fifty‐five patients completed the pre‐ to posttreatment evaluations from January 2020 to December 2023. A total of 115 asymptomatic individuals completed the study. RSA‐10 reported high internal consistency reliability (α = 0.822) and test‐retest reliability (rs = 0.725). The RSA‐10 scores of patients were significantly higher than those of controls (p = 0.001), suggesting high internal validity. RSA‐10 was significantly correlated with the RFS (rs = 0.771). The interrater reliability was adequate for sub‐ and total RSA‐10 scores (k = 0.708). RSA‐10 significantly improved from baseline to 3‐month posttreatment (p = 0.001). An RSA‐10 > 13 may be suggestive of LPRD. Both RSA‐10 > 13 and Reflux Symptom Score‐12 > 11 were associated with a sensitivity of 92.7% and a specificity of 97.3%.

Conclusion

The RSA‐10 is a reliable and valid clinical instrument for documenting the most prevalent laryngeal and extra‐laryngeal findings associated with LPRD.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:3981–3988, 2024
The dilemma of water, food, and greener energy nexus: A novel context of COP27 for G20 economies
Authors: He Kang , Shahzadi Irum , Khan Salahuddin , Mentel Grzegorz , Tarczyński Waldemar
Published: March 2024

In the contemporary world, achieving sustainable food production has become an urgent task for the international community and policymakers due to the rapidly growing social challenges of mankind. Sustainable food production practices aid countries in adapting to the challenges posed by climate change, thereby ensuring a better and more sustainable future for all. This study examines the impact of land use, energy efficiency (ENE), water productivity (WP), renewable energy consumption (REC), and gross domestic product (GDP) on sustainable food production in G20 nations over the period of 1998–2020. We use quantile regression approaches to capture potential heterogeneity across various food value‐added distribution quantiles. The results show that arable land, WP, GDP, ENE, and REC are important factors affecting food value added in G20 nations. However, the nature of the relationship varies across different quantiles, suggesting heterogeneity in the relationships. The results show that ENE, renewable energies, and GDP are positively related to food production. However, arable land and WP are negatively related to food production. The findings can assist policymakers and stakeholders in making informed decisions to increase value added in the agricultural sector while promoting resilience and sustainability.
A Facile and Economical Method to Synthesize a Novel Isosorbide‐Based Fluorescent Copolyesters with Outstanding Properties
Authors: Ma Lele , Liu Jiajian , Li Chuncheng , Xiao Yaonan , Wu Shaohua , Zhang Bo
Published: March 2024

In recent years, non‐traditional intrinsic luminescence (NTIL) materials containing only ester groups in their molecules have been emerging and received extensive attention and research. Nevertheless, the existing NTIL materials still have the problems of low molecular weight and insufficient mechanical properties, which limit their further application. Isosorbide is a kind of bio‐based rigid diol monomer which is mainly used to improve the heat resistance and mechanical properties of materials all along. Besides, the ring‐opening reaction under acidic conditions makes isosorbide‐based materials exhibit some new functionalities. In this paper, a series of isosorbide‐based copolyesters with high molecular weight are synthesized by a simple and economical two‐step melt polycondensation method. It is found that, on the basis of improving the thermal and mechanical properties of the materials, copolyesters also exhibit fluorescence emission in the visible region at the excitation wavelength of 350 nm. And the fluorescence emission wavelength can be adjusted from 400 to 480. This study broadens the functional application of the isosorbide‐based materials and effectively enriches fluorescence mechanism of NTIL.
Applications of Strain‐Specific Probiotics in the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systemic Review
Authors: Khan Saleha , Ahmad Firdos , Khalid Nauman
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of global mortality and novel approaches for prevention and management are needed. The human gastrointestinal tract hosts a diverse microbiota that is crucial in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. The formulation of effective probiotics, alone or in combination, has been under discussion due to their impact on cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Probiotics have been shown to impact cardiovascular health positively. An imbalance in the presence of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes has been linked to the progression of CVDs due to their impact on bile acid and cholesterol metabolism. The probiotics primarily help in the reduction of plasma low‐density lipoprotein levels and attenuation of the proinflammatory markers. These beneficial microorganisms contribute to lowering cholesterol levels and produce essential short‐chain fatty acids. The impact of lipid‐regulating probiotic strains on human health is quite significant. However, only a few have been tested for potential beneficial efficacy, and ambiguity exists regarding strain dosages, interactions with confounding factors, and potential adverse effects. Hence, more comprehensive studies and randomized trials are needed to understand the mechanisms of probiotics on CVDs and to ensure human health. This review assesses the evidence and highlights the roles of strain‐specific probiotics in the management of CVDs.