bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Processing on Nutritional Value and Microbial Characteristics of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)
Authors: Asamani Emmanuel Kwaku , Maalekuu Bonaventure Kissinger
Published: March 2023

Okra is consumed for its nutrients for healthy growth and development. Quality okra is essential for consumption and maximizing profits for okra producers and marketers. However, okra is perishable and limited in supply during the dry seasons. The stakeholders such as farmers, traders and consumers processed okra fruits to make them available all year round. Therefore, the objective of the study is to explore the effect of processing on nutritional value and microbial characteristics of okra fruits. The study involved both field survey and laboratory work among five okra producing communities within Sunyani Municipality Ghana, namely; Abesim, Atronie, Benu Nkwanta, Ayakomasu and Wawasua. Stratified sampling technique was used to select 50 farmers while purposive sampling technique was used to select 35 traders and 25 consumers, making a total of one hundred and ten respondents. Questionnaires were instruments used for the survey.  Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four treatments was used and blocked five times to obtain data for laboratory analyses. Results from the study indicated that, variety of okra fruits most cultivated, sold and consumed was Asutem, July to September were identified to be the months of bumper harvest for farmers, declined in prices of okra fruits for traders and low purchasing prices of okra fruits for consumers. The processing methods identified for processing okra fruits were slicing, pounding/ milling and roasting. Nutritional analyses on techniques used for processing okra fruits in the study area, revealed that, fiber, ash and calcium contents (18.47 %, 9.7 % and 0.43 %) were higher in sliced okra fruits and carbohydrate content (48.34 %) was higher in roasted okra fruits. Microbial contamination analyses on techniques used for processing okra fruits, showed that, there were lower (1.24, 0.83, 1.73 and 0.66 log10 CFU/g of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium digitatum and Penicillium spp, respectively) in roasted okra fruits.
The Effect of Social Media Marketing Activities of Skin Care Brand Image on Customer Loyalty
Authors: Anugrahani Yulisma , Hartono Arif
Published: March 2023

The presence of digital platforms is used as a means of communication, advertising, promotion, and lifestyle demonstration to maintain the existence and business operations of a brand by adopting online technology and social media marketing activities (SMMA). Globally and nationally, skin care product are rapidly expanding, but empirical studies on SMMAs in relation to skin care in Indonesia have remained scarce. This study aims to examine and analyze the effect of the five components of social media marketing activity (SMMA) on customer loyalty to the Something brand. This study was conducted using quantitative methods and processed with PLS-SEM applications (smartPLS3) to test the proposed hypotheses. This research was conducted in Indonesia by distributing online questionnaires through Google forms between January and February 2023. Respondents are Instagram users who know the Somethinc brand with a total of 220 respondents. There are differences in the results of research on the components of social media marketing activities (SMMA) including entertainment, trendiness, and customization have a significant and positive effect on brand image. Therefore, interactivity and electronic-word of mouth do not show positive and insignificant results on brand image. Other test results show that brand image has a significant and positive effect on customer loyalty. The results of this study contribute practical implications for company managers to create alternative solutions in digital marketing strategies by creating a positive image of the company and building long-term relationships with consumers.
Proximate, Phytochemical and Mineral Composition of Methanol Extract of Persea americana Seed
Authors: Omorevbarhia Omorovbiye , Umerie Sunday Chidozie , Aniefuna Ejike Louis , Enoch Oguazu Chinenye
Published: March 2023

This study investigated the proximate composition and evaluated the phytochemicals present in the methanol extract of Persea americana seed. The seed samples were collected, dried, ground into powder, and extracted in methanol by cold maceration. Proximate analysis was carried out using the standard methods of association of official analytical chemists (AOAC) while quantitative phytochemical analysis was done using standard methods. Mineral composition assays were carried out using the standard methods of the American public health association (APHA).  Proximate analysis revealed that the seeds of P. americana contain more carbohydrate (32.05±1.21%), fat (25.73±2.01%), and protein (21.00±0.88%) with fewer amounts of moisture (8.98±0.10%), and ash (3.28±0.16%). Quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenols (3.51±0.42 mg/100 g), saponins (0.05±0.38 mg/100g), alkaloid (0.70±0.37 mg/100g), beta-carotene (32.24±0.55 mg/100 g), lycopene (6.84±0.52 mg/100 g), flavonoids (34.14±3.13 mg/ 100 g), phytate (0.00±0.03 mg/100 g), cardiac glycosides (0.37±0.01%), total phytosterol (21.25±0.12 mg/100 g), stigmasterol (13.16±0.15mg/100g) and campesterol (6.16±0.12 mg/100 g). Mineral contents of the sample revealed that potassium, calcium, and magnesium have the highest concentrations while manganese and iron have the lowest. The chemical compositions of the investigated samples might be responsible for their medicinal values in phytomedicine. This study shows that Persea americana seeds are adequate in lowering cholesterol levels probably due to the presence of phytosterols.
Engineering and Advancement of Digitization through Unified Payment Interface
Authors: Chalise Abhishek Kumar
Published: March 2023

Unified Payment Interface introduced in 2016 is an instant real-time payment system developed by National Payments Corporation of India facilitating inter-bank transactions. The interface is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India and works by instantly transferring funds between two bank accounts on a mobile platform. Unlike wallets, the payer and the payee can use two different payment service providers. Unified Payment Interface has brought revolution in payment system in India, making instant real-time payment system possible. This study is focused on looking at engineering side of Unified Payment Interface and its impact around advancement of digitization. Here we see behind Unified Payment Interface engineering infrastructure and how it works. This study also elaborates on surgencies of digitization through Unified Payment Interface mode in India. Study was carried out by taking survey, using Right to Information Act, and understanding computing side of Unified Payment Interface. In survey 214 individuals were asked 20 questions irrespective of age, location, sex, income background, education and religion in India. Findings were listed with both positives and negative aspects highlighted.
Effective Use of Medical Chaperones
Authors: Agarwal Aneesh , Han Joseph , Goldberg David
Published: March 2023

This Viewpoint examines the use of medical chaperones in the context of sensitive dermatologic examinations and provides recommendations on improving safety and satisfaction for patients and medicolegal protection and cost-saving strategies for clinicians.
Association of Vibrotactile Biofeedback With Reduced Ergonomic Risk for Surgeons During Tonsillectomy
Authors: Kelly Natalie A. , Althubaiti Abdulrahman , Katapadi Aashika D. , Smith Adam G. , Nyirjesy Sarah C. , Yu Jane H. , Onwuka Amanda J. , Chiang Tendy
Published: March 2023

Importance

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are common among otolaryngologists and can be associated with decreased productivity, missed workdays, and reduced quality of life. Ergonomic risk for surgeons is elevated during common otolaryngology procedures; current ergonomic interventions lack the ability to provide real-time feedback. The ability to quantify and mitigate ergonomic risk during surgery may reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Objective

To quantify the association of vibrotactile biofeedback with intraoperative ergonomic risk to surgeons during tonsillectomy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2021 and October 2021 at a freestanding tertiary care children’s hospital and included 11 attending pediatric otolaryngologists. Data analysis was conducted from August to October 2021.

Interventions

Real-time quantification of ergonomic risk during tonsillectomy and the use of a vibrotactile biofeedback posture monitor.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Association of vibrotactile biofeedback with objective measures of ergonomic risk. Assessment tools included the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment, craniovertebral angle, and time spent in an at-risk posture.

Results

Eleven surgeons (mean [SD] age 42 [7] years; 2 women [18%]) performed 126 procedures with continuous posture monitoring in the presence (80 [63%]) and absence (46 [37%]) of vibrotactile biofeedback. No complications or delays associated with the device were reported. Intraoperative vibrotactile biofeedback was associated with improved Rapid Upper Limit Assessment neck, trunk, and leg scores by 0.15 (95% CI, 0.05-0.25), improved craniovertebral angle by 1.9 (95% CI, 0.32-3.40), and decreased overall time spent in an at-risk posture by 30% (95% CI, 22%-39%).

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this cross-sectional study suggest that use of a vibrotactile biofeedback device to quantify and mitigate ergonomic risk for surgeons is feasible and safe while performing surgery. Vibrotactile biofeedback was associated with reduced ergonomic risk during tonsillectomy and may have a role in improving surgical ergonomics and preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
Seq2Pat: Sequence‐to‐pattern generation to bridge pattern mining with machine learning
Authors: Kadıoğlu Serdar , Wang Xin , Hosseininasab Amin , van Hoeve Willem‐Jan
Published: March 2023

Pattern mining is an essential part of knowledge discovery and data analytics. It is a powerful paradigm, especially when combined with constraint reasoning. In this overview, we showcase Seq2Pat, a constraint‐based sequential pattern mining (SPM) tool with a high‐level declarative user interface. The library finds frequent patterns in large sequence databases subject to constraints. We highlight key benefits especially desirable in industrial settings where scalability, explainability, rapid experimentation, reusability, and reproducibility are of great practical interest. We then bridge SPM with supervised machine learning via dichotomic pattern mining (DPM). DPM exploits the dichotomy between outcomes correlated with patterns that uniquely distinguish them. Last, we present an automated feature extraction powered by Seq2Pat and DPM to discover high‐level insights and boost downstream machine learning models for intent prediction in digital behavior analysis.
Fault‐tolerant control of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems with state constraints
Authors: Jia Jiyang , Wang Hao , Liu Lei
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the adaptive fault‐tolerant control (FTC) problem of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems (HMASs) with state constraints composed of first‐order and second‐order agents is studied. The problems of fault and constraints are inevitable during the operation of the system, the authors consider the fault of the system as actuator fault, and the constraints of the system can be considered as state constraints. Based on the backstepping framework, the logarithmic barrier Lyapunov function is selected to study the stability of system with constraints. For the bias fault of actuator fault, adaptive estimation is carried out, which can estimate the fault more accurately. Finally, an adaptive constrained FTC scheme is successfully designed to ensure that each signal of the system is bounded. Simulation examples show that the constrained FTC scheme is effective.
Overcoming the PCBM/Ag Interface Issues in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells by Rhodamine‐Functionalized Dodecahydro‐Closo‐Dodecaborate Derivate Interlayer
Authors: Liu Naihe , Xiong Jian , Wang Gang , He Zhen , Dai Junqian , Zhang Yongsong , Huang Yu , Zhang Zheling , Wang Dongjie , Li Sha , Liu Bo , Deng Xuefan , Zhang Haibo , Zhang Jian
Published: March 2023

Efficient modification of the interface between metal cathode and electron transport layer are critical for achieving high performance and stability of the inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, a new alcohol‐soluble rhodamine‐functionalized dodecahydro‐closo‐dodecaborate derivate, RBH, is developed and applied as an efficient cathode interlayer to overcome the (6,6)‐phenyl‐C61 butyrie acid methyl ester (PCBM)/Ag interface issues. By introducing RBH cathode interlayer, the functions of the interface traps passivation, interfacial hydrophobicity enhancement, interface contact improvement as well as built‐in potential enhancement are realized at the same time and thus correspondingly improve the device performance and stability. Consequently, a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.08% and high fill factor of 83.37% are achieved, which is one of the highest values based on solution‐processed MAPbI3/PCBM heterojunction PSCs. Moreover, RBH can act as a shielding layer to slow down moisture erosion and self‐corrosion. The PCE of the RBH devices still maintain 84% for 456 h (85 °C @ N2), 87% for 360 h (23 °C @ relative humidity (RH) 35%) of its initial PCE value, while the control device can only maintain ≈23%, 58% of its initial PCE value under the same exposure conditions, respectively.
A Self‐Reconfigured, Dual‐Layered Artificial Interphase Toward High‐Current‐Density Quasi‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Guo Jun‐Chen , Tan Shuang‐Jie , Zhang Chao‐Hui , Wang Wen‐Peng , Zhao Yao , Wang Fuyi , Zhang Xu‐Sheng , Wen Rui , Zhang Ying , Fan Min , Xin Sen , Zhang Juan , Guo Yu‐Guo
Published: March 2023

The uncontrollable dendrite growth and unstable solid electrolyte interphase have long plagued the practical application of Li metal batteries. Herein, a dual‐layered artificial interphase LiF/LiBO–Ag is demonstrated that is simultaneously reconfigured via an electrochemical process to stabilize the lithium anode. This dual‐layered interphase consists of a heterogeneous LiF/LiBO glassy top layer with ultrafast Li‐ion conductivity and lithiophilic Li–Ag alloy bottom layer, which synergistically regulates the dendrite‐free Li deposition, even at high current densities. As a result, Li||Li symmetric cells with LiF/LiBO–Ag interphase achieve an ultralong lifespan (4500 h) at an ultrahigh current density and area capacity (20 mA cm−2, 20 mAh cm−2). LiF/LiBO–Ag@Li anodes are successfully applied in quasi‐solid‐state batteries, showing excellent cycling performances in symmetric cells (8 mA cm−2, 8 mAh cm−2, 5000 h) and full cells. Furthermore, a practical quasi‐solid‐state pouch cell coupling with a high‐nickel cathode exhibits stable cycling with a capacity retention of over 91% after 60 cycles at 0.5 C, which is comparable or even better than that in liquid‐state pouch cells. Additionally, a high‐energy‐density quasi‐solid‐state pouch cell (10.75 Ah, 448.7 Wh kg−1) is successfully accomplished. This well‐orchestrated interphase design provides new guidance in engineering highly stable interphase toward practical high‐energy‐density lithium metal batteries.
Lightweight All Graphene‐Based Two‐Phase Heat Transport Devices
Authors: Zheng Feiyu , Shen Qingchen , Wang Zhiying , Cheng Weizheng , Wang Ruitong , Fang Cheng , Chu Ben , Tao Jinran , Zhang Wanli , Tao Peng , Song Chengyi , Shang Wen , Fu Benwei , Deng Tao
Published: March 2023

Graphene‐based composites show great potential in the development of lightweight functional devices and systems, and polymers are usually used as binders to enhance the mechanical properties of these composites. Due to the low thermal conductivity of the polymer and the high inherent interfacial thermal resistance between polymer and graphene, however, the developed devices and systems generally possess low thermal conductivity, which seriously limits their further thermal‐related applications. Here, a lightweight two‐phase heat transport device (TPHTD) based on a vapor‐liquid phase transition‐based heat transfer by using a graphene‐based composite material as the casing is generated. The graphene‐based TPHTD has high thermal conductivity of up to 1408 W (mK)−1and realizes ultra‐high specific thermal conductivity of ≈5600 W (mKg)−1. This graphene‐based device with lightweight and high heat transfer capacity offers new opportunities for efficient thermal management of compact, portable, or wearable electronic and power systems.
Mitochondrial TSPO Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression through Ferroptosis Inhibition and Immune Evasion
Authors: Zhang Deguo , Man Da , Lu Jiahua , Jiang Yifan , Ding Bo , Su Rong , Tong Rongliang , Chen Junru , Yang Beng , Zheng Shusen , Chen Diyu , Wu Jian
Published: March 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies with poor prognosis, and novel treatment strategies are urgently needed. Mitochondria are key regulators of cellular homeostasis and potential targets for tumor therapy. Here, the role of mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO) in the regulation of ferroptosis and antitumor immunity is investigated and the potential therapeutic implications for HCC are assessed. TSPO is highly expressed in HCC and associated with poor prognosis. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments present that TSPO promotes HCC cell growth, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. In addition, TSPO inhibits ferroptosis in HCC cells via enhancing the Nrf2‐dependent antioxidant defense system. Mechanistically, TSPO directly interacts with P62 and interferes with autophagy, leading to the accumulation of P62. The P62 accumulation competes with KEAP1, preventing it from targeting Nrf2 for proteasomal degradation. Furthermore, TSPO promotes HCC immune escape by upregulating PD‐L1 expression through Nrf2‐mediated transcription. Notably, TSPO inhibitor PK11195 combines with anti‐PD‐1 antibody showing a synergistic anti‐tumor effect in a mouse model. Overall, the results demonstrated that mitochondrial TSPO promotes HCC progression by inhibiting ferroptosis and antitumor immunity. Targeting TSPO can be a promising new strategy for HCC treatment.
Of women and land: How gender affects successions and transfers of Iowa farms
Authors: Liu Qing , Maule Beatrice , Zhang Wendong
Published: March 2023

Using 589 responses to the 2019 Iowa Farm Transfer Survey, we examine factors in farm successor choices among Iowa farmers with a focus on female successors and landowners. Among those with identified successors, 57% chose sons and 8% chose daughters. We find a 12.4% probability a female farmer will choose a daughter, but only 5.9% for a male farmer. Agriculture experience increases the probability of choosing a daughter from 5.4% to 20.7% and from 36.3% to 65.2% for a son. Our paper reveals striking evidence of gender imbalance in farm succession, transfer, and inheritance decisions of US farms.
Access toward steroid skeleton and its derivatives via copper‐catalyzed intramolecular cyclization: A short synthesis of estradiol and estrone
Authors: Liaba Niaz , Lee Junseong , Oh Chang Ho
Published: March 2023

A practical and efficient approach leading to [6,6,6,5] tetracyclic fused ring steroid skeletons (8 a–i) has been designed through copper catalyzed intramolecular [4+2] cycloaddition reaction of enyne‐carbonyl substrates (7 a–i). The compound 8 a having OMe group at aromatic ring was further utilized to synthesize estradiol and Estrone.
11C‐Cyanation of Aryl Fluorides via Nickel and Lithium Chloride‐Mediated C−F Bond Activation
Authors: Zhang Zhouen , Niwa Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Hosoya Takamitsu
Published: March 2023

Aryl fluorides are expected to be useful as radiolabeling precursors due to their chemical stability and ready availability. However, direct radiolabeling via carbon‐fluorine (C−F) bond cleavage is a challenging issue due to its significant inertness. Herein, we report a two‐phase radiosynthetic method for the ipso‐11C‐cyanation of aryl fluorides to obtain [11C]aryl nitriles via nickel‐mediated C−F bond activation. We also established a practical protocol that avoids the use of a glovebox, except for the initial preparation of a nickel/phosphine mixture, rendering the method applicable for general PET centers. This method enabled the efficient synthesis of diverse [11C]aryl nitriles from the corresponding aryl fluorides, including pharmaceutical drugs. Stoichiometric reactions and theoretical studies indicated a significant promotion effect of lithium chloride on the oxidative addition, affording an aryl(chloro)nickel(II) complex, which serves as a precursor for rapid 11C‐cyanation.
Long‐term persistence of large dugong groups in a conservation hotspot around Hawar Island, Kingdom of Bahrain
Authors: Khamis Abdulqader , Abdulla Ameer , D'Souza Elrika , Kelkar Nachiket , Arthur Rohan , Al Khalifa Ebrahim , Bader Hani , Alcoverro Teresa
Published: March 2023

Predictable aggregations of large marine mammals are valuable conservation targets, but aggregated populations can also be exposed to site‐level threats.

The globally vulnerable Dugong dugon has a wide distribution but is found in large numbers mainly in Australia and the Arabian Gulf. Though Australian dugong populations are well studied, much less is known of the dugongs in the Arabian Gulf.

The spatial and temporal persistence of dugongs around Bahrain, with a focus on large dugong groups (>50 dugongs), was determined using an occupancy modelling framework supported by historical records, structured interviews, citizen science network reports, and small‐scale boat and unmanned aerial vehicle surveys.

Historical records and current distributional studies confirmed that large dugong groups have been reliably sighted around Hawar Island (Bahrain) since at least 1986, forming large, clumped groups that persist almost year round. The largest recorded so far in the world, these fluid groups (maximum of ~700 dugongs) account for ~60% of the dugongs found in Bahrain and ~12% of all dugongs in the Arabian Gulf.

The delineated occupancy core area of large dugong groups (~145 km2) straddles the Bahrain–Qatar border, reflecting the transboundary nature of these groups.

Careful management of human‐induced stressors (in particular, fishing, boating, and coastal development) combined with regular monitoring of Hawar Island's large dugong groups and their seagrass habitat is critical to safeguard this globally important population.

The effectiveness of any conservation management is predicated on strengthening cooperation among all range states in the Arabian Gulf. A key recommendation of this study is to establish a regional network of marine protected areas encompassing core aggregation sites for dugongs, particularly the Hawar Islands in Bahrain, the north‐western waters of Qatar, Marawah Island in the United Arab Emirates in addition to the shallow waters between Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and United Arab Emirates.
Xenorhinos bhatnagari sp. nov., a new, nasal‐emitting trident bat (Rhinonycteridae, Rhinolophoidea) from early Miocene forests in northern Australia
Authors: Hand Suzanne J. , Archer Michael , Gillespie Anna , Myers Troy
Published: March 2023

A new Old World trident bat (Rhinonycteridae) is described from an early Miocene cave deposit in the Riversleigh World Heritage Area, northwestern Queensland, Australia. Living rhinonycterids comprise a small family of insect‐eating, nasal‐emitting rhinolophoid bats from Africa, Madagascar, Seychelles, the Middle East, and northern Australia. The new fossil species is one of at least 12 rhinonycterid species known from the Oligo‐Miocene cave deposits at Riversleigh. We refer the new species to the genus Xenorhinos (Hand, Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, 18, 430–439, 1998a) because it shares a number of unusual cranial features with the type and only other species of the genus, X. halli, including a broad rostrum, very wide interorbital region, pronounced ventral flexion of the rostrum, very constricted sphenoidal bridge, and, within the nasal fossa, reduced bony division, and relatively well developed turbinals. Xenorhinos species lived in northern Australia during the global Miocene Climatic Optimum, in closed wet forests, unlike the drier habitats that trident bats largely inhabit today. Our phylogenetic analysis suggests that more than one dispersal event gave rise to the Australian rhinonycterid radiation, with two lineages having sister‐group relationships with non‐Australian taxa.
Combined physicochemical and functional assessment of pertuzumab integrity supports extended in‐use stability
Authors: Jirschitzka Sven , Längle Daniel , Lück Hendrik , Schade Dennis , Kunze Thomas
Published: March 2023

Pertuzumab (Perjeta®) is a monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of HER2‐positive breast cancer. Before treatment, the concentrate must be diluted to obtain the ready‐to‐use infusion solution. Data on the storage stabilities of these preparations are lacking but important for all healthcare professionals in the area of outpatient chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the storage stability of the ready‐to‐use infusion bags and the concentrates from once‐opened vials over a period of up to 42 days. For a comprehensive and unambiguous assessment of pertuzumab's integrity, a panel of orthogonal analytical methods was employed, including a newly established mass spectrometry‐based peptide mapping procedure along with a reporter gene assay for monitoring cellular bioactivity. The herein presented data showed that the ready‐to‐use infusion solutions stored at 4 ± 2°C and at 20 ± 3°C without light protection, as well as the undiluted Perjeta® concentrates stored at 4 ± 2°C, were physicochemically stable and biologically active for 28 days. These results might eventually allow for infusion preparations in advance, thus improving the quality of patient care as well as the economic usage of pertuzumab.
π‐Extended BTD Derivatives: Synthesis, Photophysical Properties, and Applications in Biological Systems Imaging for Discriminating Living and Dead Cells
Authors: Li Cong‐Cong , Cao Jiaxin , Wang Lin , Ji Xingxiang , Xu Yanjun , Wang Jian‐Yong
Published: March 2023

Here, π‐Extended BTD derivatives were successfully synthesized by Heck coupling reaction, which exhibited the the advantages of simplicity and efficiency, wild substrate scope, easily available substrates and high yield. The fluorescent probe PEG‐BTDAr targeting LDs was successfully prepared by the nucleophilic substitution reaction between the Heck coupling reaction product 3 h and Amino polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether (Mn=2000). PEG‐BTDAr exhibited the advantages of high selectivity, good stability and pH resistance. The use of PEG as a substrate gave PEG‐BTDAr good biocompatibility. It was worth mentioning that PEG‐BTDAr could not only track LDs in cells under different physiological conditions, but also distinguish between living and dead cells in biological systems.
Analysis of barriers affecting circular economy adoption in food supply chain: A strategic perspective
Authors: Sonar Harshad , Ghag Nikhil , Kharde Yashomandira , Ghosh Shriya
Published: March 2023

The circular economy (CE) is specifically transforming the linear food supply chains (FSCs), which attracted a lot of interest from practitioners and researchers in order to address the global difficulties facing the FSCs today. However, there has not been much discussion of implementing CE activities in literature, especially in the FSCs. The purpose of this study is to identify the barriers for implementing CE in the FSC. Barriers are identified from past academic literature and are finalized based on the fuzzy‐Delphi method. Nine experts provided their opinions to develop the contextual relationship between identified barriers using the DEMATEL with Neutrosophic set theory. As per the findings, top management commitment is crucial for the successful adoption of CE throughout the FSC followed by poor corporate social responsibility. The novelty lies in identification of the barriers for implementing CE in FSC using Neutrosophic theory. This study will assist professionals in developing advantageous ways for adopting the CE to gain sustained competitive advantage in the FSC. Managers and planners can better understand and implement CE strategies in the FSC. The FSC can become more sustainable in a number of ways by using the CE concepts.
Establishment and validation of systematic prognostic nomograms in patients over 60 years of age with osteosarcoma: A multicenter external verification study
Authors: Shao Zhuce , Li JiaChen , Liu Ze , Bi Shuxiong
Published: March 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to develop and validate systematic nomograms to predict cancer specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) in osteosarcoma patients aged over 60 years.

Methods

We used data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and identified 982 patients with osteosarcoma over 60 years of age diagnosed between 2004 and 2015. Overall, 306 patients met the requirements for the training group. Next, we enrolled 56 patients who met the study requirements from multiple medical centers as the external validation group to validate and analyze our model. We collected all available variables and finally selected eight that were statistically associated with CSS and OS through Cox regression analysis. Integrating the identified variables, we constructed 3‐ and 5‐year OS and CSS nomograms, respectively, which were further evaluated by calculating the C‐index. A calibration curve was used to evaluate the accuracy of the model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves measured the predictive capacity of the nomograms. The Kaplan–Meier analysis was used for all patient‐based variables to explore the influence of various factors on patient survival. Finally, a decision curve analysis (DCA) curve was used to analyze whether our model would be suitable for application in clinical practice.

Results

Cox regression analysis of clinical variables identified age, sex, marital status, tumor grade, tumor laterality, tumor size, M‐stage, and surgical treatment as prognostic factors. Nomograms showed good predictive capacity for OS and CSS. We calculated that the C‐index of the OS nomogram of the training population was 0.827 (95% CI 0.778–0.876), while that of the CSS nomogram was 0.722 (95% CI 0.665–0.779). The C‐index of the OS nomogram evaluated on the external validation population was 0.716 (95% CI 0.575–0.857), while that of the CSS nomogram was 0.642 (95% CI 0.50–0.788). Furthermore, the calibration curve of our prediction models indicated the nomograms could accurately predict patient outcome.

Conclusions

The constructed nomogram is a useful tool for accurately predicting OS and CSS at 3 and 5 years for patients over 60 years of age with osteosarcoma and can assist clinicians in making appropriate decisions in practice.
A case of acute myelomonocytic leukemia morphologically mimicking lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Ni Sao‐Chih , Yao Chi‐Yuan , Tien Feng‐Ming , Lin Chien‐Chin
Published: March 2023

We present the case of a 70‐year‐old man diagnosed with acute myelomonocytic leukemia, albeit that his leukemic blasts at initial presentation had scant cytoplasm, inconspicuous cytoplasmic granules, and morphologically mimicked lymphoblasts. We would like to raise the recognition that acute myelomonocytic leukemia can actually present with atypical blast morphology.
Microaggressions, mentoring, and connectedness: Doctoral students’ experiences in counselor education
Authors: Vaishnav Shreya , Wester Kelly L.
Published: March 2023

This descriptive, correlational research study examined the prevalence of racial microaggressions among doctoral students of color in counselor education, and the relationships between experiences of racial microaggressions, relational mentoring, and social connectedness. Implications and future directions are provided based on the results.
Synthesis of Activated Carbon from Agricultural Wastes and Its Application in Adsorption of Dyes
Authors: Hamad Kareem H. , El-Sayed Amal M. , Mohamed Ahmed G. , Mostafa Ahmed H. , Deeb Nayera M. El , Tedawy Ahmed H. , Leithy Ali G. El , Abdelhamid Mostafa F. , Tawab Sayed Abdel , Aly Sohair T.
Published: March 2023

Activated carbon (AC) is one of the most used materials in dye removal that can be synthesized using different agricultural wastes. In this work, the effects of waste type and pyrolysis temperature were investigated. Corn cob and wheat straw were used for preparation of activated carbon by applying 10 % H3PO4 as an activating agent, followed by pyrolysis at 400 or 500 °C and then thermal activation at 800 °C for 10 minutes. Elemental analysis, acid soluble matter, ash content, and calorific value were measured for the prepared samples of AC. Finally, the product was applied for adsorption of Congo Red and Nile Blue dyes from wastewater and the maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 99.56 and 85.23 mg g−1, respectively using a corn cob sample activated at 500 °C.
Highly Efficient Wavelength‐Tunable Circularly Polarized Luminescence Film Constructed by Responsive Chiral Aggregation‐induced Emission Luminophore
Authors: Luo Zhi‐Wang , Huang Ao , Deng Yuan , Huang Jiang , Bu Zhen‐Qing , Xie He‐Lou
Published: March 2023

Key Lab of Environment‐friendly Chemistry and Circularly polarized luminescent (CPL) materials with multitudinous inherent advantages shows extensive application. In this work, we prepare a kind of highly efficient wavelength‐tunable CPL free‐standing films by responsive chiral aggregation‐induced emission mesogen. Firstly, the pyridine‐functionalized tetraphenylethene monomer (MPy) is designed and synthesized. Then, the different ration of the monomer MPy mixed with the liquid crystal (LC) reactive monomer (LC242) to fabricate a free‐standing film by photopolymerization. The obtained film presents efficient CPL with a constant luminescence asymmetry factor (glum) of +0.75, as well as sensitive wavelength tunability. Finally, this wavelength‐tunable CPL film with both fluorescence and CPL modes is successfully applied in anti‐counterfeiting and information encryption. This work provides a simple way to construct CPL apparatus with adjustable luminescence wavelength and high glum.
Bis[1]benzothieno[1,4]thiaborins as a Platform for BODIPY Singlet Oxygen Photosensitizers
Authors: Marek‐Urban Paulina H. , Urbanowicz Karolina A. , Wrochna Karolina , Pander Piotr , Blacha‐Grzechnik Agata , Hauer Simone T. , Berens Henning R. V. , Woźniak Krzysztof , Müller Thomas J. J. , Durka Krzysztof
Published: March 2023

A synthetic approach to two regioisomeric π‐electron extended [1,4]thiaborins annulated with two benzothiophene units has been developed. The central thiaborin rings of the boracycles obtained exhibit different electronic properties; this is reflected in their different aromatic characters, boron Lewis acidity and UV‐vis spectroscopic behavior. Thiaborins were converted to boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) complexes. Their emission spectra exhibit two distinct bands resulting from 1LE and 1CT transitions. Strong near‐infrared phosphorescence in Zeonex thin films at 77 K indicates efficient intersystem crossing and the formation of triplet states. Separation of HOMO and LUMO orbitals between boracyclic and BODIPY moieties facilitates electron transfer to a 1CT state followed by a transition to the 3LE triplet state located on the ligand. These unique properties of spiro thiaborin‐BODIPY complexes were explored for their application as singlet‐oxygen photosensitizers. They show excellent photocatalytic performance with singlet oxygen quantum yields reaching 77 % and full conversion of the model organic substrate achieved after 1.5 h with only 0.05 % mol catalyst load.
Neoadjuvant immunotherapy for advanced, resectable non–small cell lung cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Yajing , Verma Vivek , Gay Carl M. , Chen Yujia , Liang Fei , Lin Qiang , Wang Jianing , Zhang Wei , Hui Zhouguang , Zhao Min , Wang Jun , Chang Joe Y.
Published: March 2023

Background

Neoadjuvant immunotherapy (nIT) is a rapidly emerging paradigm for advanced resectable non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The objectives of this PRISMA/MOOSE/PICOD‐guided systematic review and meta‐analysis were (1) to assess the safety and efficacy of nIT, (2) to compare the safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy (nCIT) versus chemotherapy alone (nCT), and (3) to explore predictors of pathologic response with nIT and their association with outcomes.

Methods

Eligibility was resectable stage I–III NSCLC and the receipt of programmed death‐1/programmed cell death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1)/cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte–associated antigen‐4 inhibitors before resection; other forms and modalities of neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant therapies were allowed. For statistical analysis, the Mantel–Haenszel fixed‐effect or random‐effect model was used, depending on the heterogeneity (I2).

Results

Sixty‐six articles met the criteria (eight randomized studies, 39 prospective nonrandomized studies, and 19 retrospective studies). The pooled pathologic complete response (pCR) rate was 28.1%. The estimated grade ≥3 toxicity rate was 18.0%. Compared with nCT, nCIT achieved higher rates of pCR (odds ratio [OR], 7.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.49–12.97; p < .001), progression‐free survival (PFS) (hazard ratio [HR] 0.51; 95% CI, 0.38–0.67; p < .001), and overall survival (OS) (HR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.36–0.74; p = .0003) but yielded similar toxicity rates (OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.67–1.52; p = .97). The results remained robust on sensitivity analysis when all retrospective publications were removed. pCR was associated with improved PFS (HR, 0.25; 0.15–0.43; p < .001) and OS (HR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.10–0.67; p = .005). PD‐L1 expressors (≥1%) were more likely to achieve a pCR (OR, 2.93; 95% CI, 1.22–7.03; p = .02).

Conclusions

In patients with advanced resectable NSCLC, neoadjuvant immunotherapy was safe and efficacious. nCIT improved pathologic response rates and PFS/OS over nCT, particularly in patients who had tumors that expressed PD‐L1, without increasing toxicities.

Plain Language Summary

This meta‐analysis of 66 studies showed that neoadjuvant immunotherapy for advanced resectable non‐small cell lung cancer is safe and efficacious.

Compared with chemotherapy alone, chemoimmunotherapy improved pathologic response rates and survival, particularly for patients who had tumors that expressed programmed cell death ligand‐1, without increasing toxicities.
Effect of Fluorine Substitution on Absorption and Emission Properties of Figure‐eight‐shaped [5]Helicene Dimer: A Computational Study at RI‐MP2/RI‐ADC(2) Level
Authors: Saharia Abhishek , Mahato Bishwanath , Mishra Brijesh Kurnar , Panda Aditya N.
Published: March 2023

Chirality is a very important characteristic of optically active molecules and polyaromatics with helical structures, and plays a vital role in various applications in material science. In the present work, we show the effects of fluorine substitution at various positions in a figure‐8‐shaped [5]helicene dimer on the ground and excited state g‐factors. Calculations for the ground and excited states are performed at the MP2 and ADC(2) levels of theory, respectively. The results reveal that fluorination has a large effect on the excited state structures. The values of the excited state dissymmetry factors for the molecules with fluorinations at both ends of the figure‐8 systems are smaller than that of the parent system. On the other hand, fluorinations only in the stacked‐phenyl region results in an increase in the value of
. The perfluorinated system shows the smallest
.
Advances in natural small molecules on pretranslational regulation of gluconeogenesis
Authors: Wu Xiaoran , Chen Sunhui
Published: March 2023

Different tissues and organs coordinate to keep glucose levels at homeostasis. However, excessive gluconeogenesis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus increases blood glucose and causes dysregulation of homeostasis, which easily induces various diseases. Therefore, inhibiting excessive gluconeogenesis is a potential direction to regulate the disorder of blood glucose homeostasis and treat diabetes. The process of gluconeogenesis can be pretranslationally or posttranslationally regulated, and some natural small molecules can be involved in the pretranslational phase of gluconeogenesis, regulating glucose homeostasis by inhibiting gene expression, interfering with RNA transcription, and antagonizing related proteins. This paper will classify and review the natural small molecules with pretranslational regulation of gluconeogenesis according to the action sites and signaling pathways.
Binge‐spectrum symptoms in their association with higher gestational weight gain
Authors: Bajaj Deepika , Markova Veronika , MacKinnon Anna , Bell Rhonda C. , von Ranson Kristin M. , Letourneau Nicole , Giesbrecht Gerald F. , Tomfohr‐Madsen Lianne
Published: March 2023

Objective

Gestational weight gain (GWG) above or below recommendations is common and has implications for parent and infant health. Bulimia nervosa and binge‐eating disorder during pregnancy have been associated with higher GWG. Yet, little research has examined the associations between binge‐spectrum symptoms and GWG. Likewise, few interventions exist to adequately prevent GWG. The current study investigated a broad range of predictors of GWG, with the goal of identifying potentially modifiable risk factors.

Method

We conducted secondary data analyses of a subsample of individuals from the Alberta Pregnancy Outcome and Nutrition (APrON) longitudinal cohort study. Multinomial logistic regression estimated the odds of gestational weight gain (GWG) outside of Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations and linear regression was used to examine total GWG continuously.

Results

Of the 1644 participants included, 848 (51.6%) exceeded the IOM's guidelines for GWG, and 272 (16.5%) gained below these recommendations. Binge‐spectrum symptom symptomatology during pregnancy was not associated with exceeding GWG recommendations after accounting for post‐secondary education, identifying as European Canadian, and higher pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI). However, greater self‐reported binge‐spectrum symptomatology during pregnancy was associated with higher total GWG after accounting for age, parity, and pre‐pregnancy BMI.

Conclusions

In addition to replicating identified predictors of higher GWG, we found that greater binge‐spectrum symptomatology was associated with higher total GWG. These findings suggest that routine screening for eating pathology during pregnancy may identify those at risk for excess GWG.

Public Significance

Gestational weight gain (GWG) outside of recommended ranges is associated with adverse outcomes. Little work has examined the associations between eating disorder symptoms and GWG. This study found that bulimia and binge‐eating symptoms were uniquely associated with higher GWG beyond known risk factors. These findings support routine screening of eating disorder symptoms and interventions to help individuals gain within GWG recommendations during pregnancy.
Guideline for screening antioxidant against lipid‐peroxidation by spectrophotometer
Authors: Li Yue , Si Dun , Sabier Maidinai , Liu Jingjing , Si Jinping , Zhang Xinfeng
Published: March 2023

Lipid peroxidation (LPO), an oxidative chain reaction often occurring in the human body and food, is harmful to human health. Due to its convenience and low cost, this guideline highlights the benefits and drawbacks of LPO models by spectrophotometer in vitro and in vivo. The preparation process and reaction mechanism of lipid substrates, oxidation triggers and detection methods are discussed in this paper to better screen antioxidants. The lipid substrates mostly consist of rat liver/brain homogenate, microsomal, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL), and linoleic acid (LA), are appropriate for modeling oxidative damage in a variety of situations. Transition metals, ascorbic acid, 2,2′‐azobis (2‐amidinopropane) hydrochloride (AAPH), sodium Nitroprusside (SNP), 3‐morpholinosydnonimine (SIN‐1) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) make up the majority of the oxidizing triggers. The following LPO quantification techniques have been reviewed: (a) thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay, (b) measurement of conjugated‐diene (CV), (c) β‐carrot bleaching assay, (d) thiocyanate method, (e) ferrous oxidation‐xylenol orange (FOX‐2) assay. It can be concluded that more than one test system should be applied to obtain comprehensive results. In a word, this guideline provides a scientific basis for future research on antioxidants screening in food and body systems.
Cardio‐hepatic syndrome in patients undergoing mitral valve transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair
Authors: Stolz Lukas , Orban Mathias , Karam Nicole , Lubos Edith , Wild Mirjam , Weckbach Ludwig , Stocker Thomas J. , Praz Fabien , Braun Daniel , Löw Kornelia , Hausleiter Sebastian , Stark Konstantin , Doldi Philipp , Tence Noemie , Orban Martin , Higuchi Satoshi , Haum Magda , Windecker Stephan , Hagl Christian , Mayerle Julia , Näbauer Michael , Kalbacher Daniel , Massberg Steffen , Hausleiter Jörg
Published: March 2023

Aims

The impact of the cardio‐hepatic syndrome (CHS) on outcomes in patients undergoing mitral valve transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair (M‐TEER) for relevant mitral regurgitation (MR) is unknown. The objectives of this study were three‐fold: (i) to characterize the pattern of hepatic impairment, (ii) to investigate the prognostic value of CHS, and (iii) to evaluate the changes in hepatic function after M‐TEER.

Methods and results

Hepatic impairment was quantified by laboratory parameters of liver function. In accordance with existing literature, two types of CHS were distinguished: ischaemic type I CHS (elevation of both transaminases) and cholestatic type II CHS (elevation of two out of three parameters of hepatic cholestasis). The impact of CHS on 2‐year mortality was evaluated using a Cox model. The change in hepatic function after M‐TEER was assessed by laboratory testing at follow‐up. We analysed 1083 patients who underwent M‐TEER for relevant primary or secondary MR at four European centres between 2008 and 2019. Ischaemic type I and cholestatic type II CHS were observed in 11.1% and 23.0% of patients, respectively. Predictors for 2‐year all‐cause mortality differed by MR aetiology. While in primary MR cholestatic type II CHS was independently associated with 2‐year mortality, ischaemic CHS type I was an independent mortality predictor in secondary MR patients. At follow‐up, patients with MR reduction ≤2+ (obtained in 90.7% of patients) presented with improved parameters of hepatic function (median reduction of 0.2 mg/dl, 0.2 U/L and 21 U/L for bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase and gamma‐glutamyl transferase, respectively, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The CHS is frequently observed in patients undergoing M‐TEER and significantly impairs 2‐year survival. Successful M‐TEER may have beneficial effects on CHS.