bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General dentists' knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding oral potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer in Indonesia
Authors: Sari Elizabeth Fitriana , Hidayat Wahyu , Dewi Tenny Setiani , Rezeki Sri , Krimadi Rosaline , McCullough Michael John , Cirillo Nicola
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The most effective means for reducing oral cancer (OC) mortality is by preventing late‐stage disease. Early diagnosis can be improved by increasing awareness among healthcare providers, specifically general dental practitioners (GDP). Therefore, our study aimed to assess GDPs' knowledge of OC risk factors and perceived competence in performing conventional oral examination (COE) in routine dental practice.

Material and Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study conducted in five provinces of Indonesia, namely: Aceh, Banda Aceh (BA); Bandung, West Java (WJ); special district Jakarta (JKT), JKT; Pontianak, West Kalimantan (WK); and Sorong, West Papua (WP). The local Dental Association or Faculty of Dentistry invited the GDPs to attend an education program and complete the survey.

Results

One hundred seventy‐seven GDPs completed the survey (WJ, n = 63; BA, n = 44, JKT, n = 27; WP, n = 23; and WP, n = 20). A large proportion (164 out of 177, 92.66%) of GDPs felt they had received insufficient training to equip them to diagnose OC and as many as 22.6% (n = 40) did not refer to specialists when they found suspicious mucosal lesions. Notwithstanding the significant regional variations, the majority of Indonesian GDPs self‐reported inadequate knowledge and awareness of OC and scarce confidence in performing COE.

Conclusion

GDP knowledge of OC risk factors and COE is key to improving early diagnosis of OC at a community level. Therefore, it is suggested that the lack of knowledge and confidence of GDPs reported here should be addressed through the national dental curriculum in Indonesia.
Oxidative Conversion of Polyethylene Towards Di‐Carboxylic Acids: A Multi‐Analytical Approach
Authors: Smak Tom J. , de Peinder Peter , Van der Waal Jan C. , Altink Rinke , Vollmer Ina , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: November 2023

To reduce the pressure on the environment created by the increasing amount of plastic waste, the need to develop suitable plastic recycling methods has become more evident. However, the chemical recycling toolbox for polyethylene (PE), the most abundant type of plastic waste, remains underdeveloped. In this work, analytical methods were developed to explore the possibility to oxidatively convert PE into di‐carboxylic acids as reaction products. A multi‐analytical approach including gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry, gas chromatography‐flame ionization detection, several (2D) nuclear magnetic resonance methods as well as in‐situ transmission infrared spectroscopy was used. This led to a thorough qualitative and quantitative analysis on the product mixture, which extends and clarifies the existing literature. Without a catalyst (thermally) already up to 7 mol % di‐carboxylic acids can be formed. Furthermore, it was found that the majority of the oxidized functionalities are carboxylic acids, (methyl) ketones, γ‐lactones, γ‐ketones and esters. An intra‐molecular hydrogen shift seemed key in the cleavage step and the formation of late‐stage side products. In addition, crosslinking reactions due to esterification reactions seem to limit the di‐carboxylic acid yield. Therefore, these two handles can be taken into account to study and design similar (catalytic) systems for the oxidative conversion of plastic waste.
Analysis and suppression of switching‐frequency harmonics in variable‐output‐voltage inverters
Authors: Farhadi‐Kangarlu Mohammad , Khiavi Abdolhamid Moallemi , Neyshabouri Yousef
Published: November 2023

In many practical applications such as motor drives, the inverter is required to produce a variable output voltage within a wide range (e.g., 0.1 to 1 pu). In such cases, when the inverter operates in low modulation index (low output voltage), the harmonic distortion of the output voltage increases due to considerable reduction in the magnitude of the fundamental component. Also, the ratio of the switching losses to the output power will be high in the low modulation index. In this paper, a simple solution is proposed to overcome the problems. The principle of the proposed solution is to adjust the DC‐link voltage so that the modulation index of the inverter remains within a specific high range. Different practical ways of obtaining controlled DC‐link voltage are presented. Also, for operation of the DC‐DC converter used for DC‐link voltage control, three strategies are proposed. The proposed solution is simple, and it is very effective and feasible to implement. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the idea has not been presented in this form previously. In order to verify the proposed solution, the simulation and experimental results are presented and discussed.
Women with hearing loss show increased dementia risk and brain atrophy
Authors: Fitzhugh Megan C. , Pa Judy
Published: November 2023

Hearing loss is a modifiable risk factor for dementia. However, it is unknown whether risk differs by sex.

Study 1 used Cox proportional hazard models to examine sex differences in the association between hearing loss (measured by speech‐reception thresholds) and dementia risk. Study 2 examined how 2‐year changes in hearing is associated with changes in brain volume in auditory–limbic regions. Both studies used UK Biobank data.

Women with poor hearing had the greatest risk of dementia, whereas women and men with insufficient hearing were at similar risk. Men with poor hearing did not have increased risk. Presence of social isolation/depressed mood minimally contributed to dementia risk in men and women. Women, but not men, with hearing loss had greater atrophy in auditory and limbic regions compared to normal hearing women and men.

Women with hearing loss show greater risk of dementia and brain atrophy, highlighting the need to examine sex‐specific mechanisms.
Women in tunicate research: Pioneers of the past and their present legacy
Authors: Nydam Marie L. , Saffo Mary Beth , Di Gregorio Anna
Published: November 2023

The search for female scientists who pioneered the research on tunicates is hindered by the tradition of reporting only the first initials of authors' names on scientific publications using only the initials of their first names. While this practice has the theoretical merit of broadening the readership by preventing the possible bias that could be caused by the gender of the author(s) in some of the readers, it rendered the identification of female researchers active in, or before, the first half of the 20th century quite challenging. Sifting through several dozen electronic records, and with the help of references and/or quotes found online, we have stitched together the information that we were able to retrieve on the life of female scientists who authored some of the earliest publications on tunicates, and we have organized them in (approximate) chronological order. We have also compiled brief synopses of the findings of scientists active in the field of tunicate biology in more recent times, and organized them by subdiscipline.
Functional recovery evaluation of hybrid self‐centering piston‐based braced frames
Authors: Rahgozar Navid , Alam M. Shahria
Published: November 2023

Severe earthquakes possess formidable destructive potential, leading to substantial damage, widespread disruptions, and tragic loss of life. In response, researchers and policymakers strive to develop innovative solutions to quantify the seismic resilience of structures. This study aims to evaluate the post‐earthquake functional recovery of two types of braced frames: Self‐Centering Piston‐Based Braced Frames (SC‐PBBFs) and Buckling Restrained Braced Frames (BRBFs). The SC‐PBBFs are designed to mitigate structural damage by incorporating Self‐Centering Piston‐Based Bracings (SC‐PBBs) equipped with Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) bars and Friction Springs (FS). A set of building prototypes, representing low‐, mid‐, and high‐rise archetypes in seismic regions, are subjected to comprehensive analyses under 44 far‐field ground motions. This thorough examination incorporates seismic hazards, structural demands, and component damages to quantify the earthquake‐induced losses and repair timelines. The study findings indicate that BRBFs suffer more significant collapse losses than SC‐PBBFs. However, BRBF systems incur lower repair costs, mainly due to limited damage to acceleration‐sensitive non‐structural components. Additionally, the FEMA P‐58/ATC‐138 framework is employed to estimate re‐occupancy, functional recovery, and full repair time, identifying systems and components that exert a significant impact on functional recovery.
Cardiac interoception in Anorexia Nervosa: A resting‐state heartbeat‐evoked potential study
Authors: Cambi Susanne , Solcà Marco , Micali Nadia , Berchio Cristina
Published: November 2023

Objective

A deficit in interoception ‐ the ability to perceive, interpret and integrate afferent signals about the physiological state of the body ‐ has been shown in Anorexia Nervosa (AN), and linked to altered hunger sensations, body dysmorphia, and abnormal emotional awareness.

The present high‐density electroencephalography (hdEEG) study aims to assess cardiac interoception in AN and to investigate its neural correlates, using an objective neurophysiological measure.

Method

Heartbeat‐evoked potentials (HEPs) were computed from 5 min of resting‐state EEG and electrocardiogram (ECG) data and compared between individuals with AN (N = 22) and healthy controls (HC) (N = 19) with waveform, topographic, and source imaging analyses.

Results

Differences in the cortical representation of heartbeats were present between AN and HC at a time window of 332–348 ms after the ECG R‐peak. Source imaging analyses revealed a right‐sided hypoactivation in AN of brain regions linked to interoceptive processing, such as the anterior cingulate and orbitofrontal areas.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study using hdEEG to localise the underlying sources of HEPs in AN. Results point to altered interoceptive processing during resting‐state in AN. As our participants had a short duration of illness, this might not be the consequence of prolonged starvation. Interventions targeted at interoception could provide an additional tool to facilitate recovery.
Towards a software‐defined networking model for consumer‐centric content delivery network for IoT
Authors: Bhardwaj Shikhar , Harit Sandeep , Yadav Anil
Published: November 2023

Every entity must communicate seamlessly in an interconnected network. Personalised delivery of information in an open private network(s) among consumers should be transparent while maintaining privacy. In information‐centric content delivery networks (ICDN) or data‐centric content delivery networks (DCDN), data delivery relies heavily on sharing data with third‐party entities, resulting in a privacy breach. To overcome these challenges, this article proposes a novel communication model with a consumer‐centric content delivery network (CCDN) approach for an internet‐of‐things (IoT) network that deals in personalised information delivery with users' identity and location privacy. The article derives motivation from a use case‐based analysis of the proposed communication model (CCDN) by incorporating the latest technologies like software‐defined networks (SDN) and content delivery network (CDN) into IoT Networks to achieve a higher level of personalisation while maintaining user privacy. CCDN leverages SDN‐based CDN for IoT networks in the designed use case that strictly adheres to user‐defined preferences/demands. The article suggests an environment with a possible topology implementation and describes the elements that can help achieve it. The article investigates the need for personalisation and how it is contrary to maintaining user privacy. The article also contributes a survey of the underlying technologies while linking them to IoT.
Exogenous citric acid, salicylic acid, and putrescine treatments preserve the postharvest quality and physicochemical properties of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) during cold storage
Authors: Kibar Hakan , Kibar Beyhan , Turfan Nezahat
Published: November 2023

To extend the postharvest storage life of broccoli samples (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica), an exogenous application of citric acid (CA), salicylic acid (SA), and putrescine (PUT) was tested in multiple combinations (0.5 and 1 mM) at 4 ± 0.5°C and 90 ± 5% relative humidity (RH) for 21 days (d). The weight loss (WL), respiration rate (RR), total soluble solids (TSS), pH, color (L*, a*, b*, chroma, and hue angle), proximate and mineral contents, phenolic and flavonoid contents, and other biochemical properties of the treated and untreated broccoli samples were evaluated throughout the storage duration. The lowest WL was observed when exposed to 0.5 mM of PUT. 1 mM CA and PUT treatments were affected by RR, depending on storage conditions. The lowest TSS content was observed in broccoli samples treated with 0.5 mM CA among all treatments. The chroma value of the samples was preserved by the 0.5 mM SA treatment. The most abundant element in broccoli samples was potassium in the control application, followed by a 1 mM SA treatment. In addition, the protein content was the highest in the 1 mM PUT treatment. The highest vitamin C was determined in the 1 mM CA treatment, and the most abundant vanillic acid was found in broccoli exposed to the 0.5 mM and treatment. Glucose content was determined at the lowest level in the 0.5 mM SA treatment, while higher increases occurred in other treatments. In terms of these findings, 1 mM CA, 1 mM SA, and 1 mM PUT delay WL, RR, and color degradation and prolong the storage life of broccoli samples stored at 4 ± 0.5°C. It was concluded that the biochemical content, fresh weight, and green color of broccoli samples throughout postharvest and storage can be maintained longer by exogenous application of these natural compounds. Therefore, we recommend 1 mM PUT and 1 mM CA treatments to maintain the quality of broccoli by minimizing losses in morphological properties, mineral, and biochemical compositions during postharvest storage.
Plant Functional Genomics Based on High‐Throughput CRISPR Library Knockout Screening: A Perspective
Authors: He Jianjie , Zeng Can , Li Maoteng
Published: November 2023

Plant biology studies in the post‐genome era have been focused on annotating genome sequences’ functions. The established plant mutant collections have greatly accelerated functional genomics research in the past few decades. However, most plant genome sequences' roles and the underlying regulatory networks remain substantially unknown. Clustered, regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)‐associated systems are robust, versatile tools for manipulating plant genomes with various targeted DNA perturbations, providing an excellent opportunity for high‐throughput interrogation of DNA elements’ roles. This study compares methods frequently used for plant functional genomics and then discusses different DNA multi‐targeted strategies to overcome gene redundancy using the CRISPR‐Cas9 system. Next, this work summarizes recent reports using CRISPR libraries for high‐throughput gene knockout and function discoveries in plants. Finally, this work envisions the future perspective of optimizing and leveraging CRISPR library screening in plant genomes' other uncharacterized DNA sequences.
Decreasing utilization for postoperative radiation therapy in locoregionally advanced medullary thyroid cancer
Authors: Maniakas Anastasios , Sullivan Andrew , Hu Mimi I. , Busaidy Naifa L. , Cabanillas Maria E. , Dadu Ramona , Waguespack Steven G. , Fisher Sarah B. , Graham Paul H. , Gross Neil D. , Grubbs Elizabeth G. , Perrier Nancy D. , Wang Jennifer R. , Gunn Brandon , Garden Adam S. , Megahed Romy , Navuluri Sriram , Li Xu , Williams Michelle D. , Zafereo Mark
Published: November 2023

Background

Use of postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) in locoregionally advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) remains controversial. The objective was to evaluate the effect of PORT on locoregional control (LRC) and overall survival (OS).

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 346 MTC patients separated into PORT and no‐PORT cohorts. Relative indications for PORT, as well as changes in patterns of treatment, were recorded.

Results

49/346 (14%) received PORT. PORT was associated with worse OS; adjusted HR = 2.0 (95%CI 1.3–3.3). PORT was not associated with improved LRC, even when adjusting for advanced stage (Stage III p = 0.892; Stage IV p = 0.101). PORT and targeted therapy were not associated with improved OS compared to targeted therapy alone; adjusted HR = 1.2 (95%CI 0.3–4.1).

Conclusions

Use of PORT in MTC has decreased and its indications have become more selective, coinciding with the advent of effective targeted therapies. Overall, PORT was not associated with improved LRC or OS.
A hybrid entity structure for tax optimization of foreign direct investment in the U.S.
Authors: Kollruss Thomas
Published: November 2023

This article develops a new strategy for the (tax) optimization of foreign direct investments in the U.S. This strategy is particularly favorable for natural persons. By using a foreign upstream hybrid partnership, a substantial tax optimization of the current taxation of profits as well as the taxation of capital gains can be achieved. In addition, current and final losses may also be offset cross‐border to a certain extent in the case of an exemption under treaty law. This tax structuring idea is presented by way of example and explained on the basis of the country constellation U.S./Germany.
Development of photoluminescent viscose fibers integrated with polymer containing lanthanide‐doped phosphor
Authors: Hameed Yasmeen A. S. , Alamrani Nasser A. , Sallam Sahar , Ibarhiam Saham F. , Almahri Albandary , Alorabi Ali Q. , El‐Metwaly Nashwa M.
Published: November 2023

Smart clothing refers to textiles that can sense an external stimulus by changing their physical properties such as colorimetric and fluorescent fabrics. The pad‐dry‐curing coloration approach was used to apply a luminous and hydrophobic composite coating onto cellulose‐based materials. This novel method includes incorporating phosphor nanoparticles made from lanthanide‐doped strontium aluminum oxide (LSAO) into room temperature vulcanizing silicone rubber (RTV). The LSAO nano‐sized particles (3–8 nm) must be mixed evenly throughout RTV without aggregation to allow for the formation of a colorless layer onto viscose surface. Pad‐dry‐curing the film onto viscose cloth worked well at room temperature. The contact angles of the luminous fibers enhanced from 138.6° to 158.2° as the LSAO ratio increased. The antimicrobial and ultraviolet (UV) protection of the LSAO‐finished viscose were investigated. The transparent fluorescent film on viscose surface was excited at 367 nm to display an emission peak at 518 nm. According to CIE Lab coordinates and luminescence analyses, the fluorescent viscose fibers showed various colors, including white under visible light, intense green beneath UV device, and greenish‐yellow under darkness. The comfort properties of the LSAO‐finished viscose were assessed by measuring their bend length and permeability to air. Transmission electron microscopic analysis of LSAO nanoparticles was explored. Energy dispersive x‐ray, x‐ray fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy were utilized to describe the spectroscopic outcomes of the treated textiles. The colorfastness of the LSAO‐finished viscose fabrics was examined. The coated fabrics exhibited a non‐fatigable reversible luminous photochromism in response to UV illumination.

Research Highlights

Multifunctional LSAO@RTV nanocomposite was pad‐dry‐cured onto viscose textile.

Photochromism to green under UV light and greenish‐yellow in the dark was detected.

Efficient antimicrobial, UV protective, and superhydrophobic activity were observed.

The antimicrobial properties were maintained for 24 washing cycles.

Pad‐dry‐cured viscose showed good comfortability and photostability.
Black‐Blood Magnetization Prepared 2 Rapid Acquisition Gradient Echoes: A Fast and Three‐Dimensional MR Black‐Blood T1 Mapping Technique for Quantitative Assessment of Atherosclerosis and Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Nie Yuhui , Lu Na , Liao Liping , Liu Zeping , Gu Anyan , Huang Xin , Tie Changjun , Liu Hongyan , Huang Zehe , Xie Guoxi
Published: November 2023

Background

Blood flow signals may be a confounder in quantifying T1 values of plaque or thrombus and how to realize black‐blood T1 mapping remains a challenge task.

Purpose

To develop a fast and three‐dimensional black‐blood T1 mapping technique for quantitative assessment of atherosclerosis and venous thrombosis.

Study Type

Sequence development and optimization via phantoms and volunteers as well as pilot prospective.

Phantom and Subjects

Numerical simulations, a standard phantom, 8 healthy volunteers (mean age, 22 ± 1 years; 5 males), and 19 patients (mean age, 57 ± 14 years; 13 males) with atherosclerosis or venous thrombosis.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T/inversion recovery spin‐echo sequence (IR‐SE), magnetization prepared 2 rapid acquisition gradient echoes (MP2RAGE), and black‐blood prepared MP2RAGE (BB‐MP2RAGE).

Assessment

The black‐blood preparation (i.e., delay alternating with nutation for tailored excitation, DANTE) was incorporated into MP2RAGE for black‐blood T1 mapping. The BB‐MP2RAGE was optimized numerically based on the Bloch equation, and then the phantom study was performed to verify the accuracy of T1 mapping by BB‐MP2RAGE against IR‐SE and MP2RAGE. Preliminary clinical validation was prospectively performed to assess the flow suppression effect and its potential application in plaque and thrombosis identification.

Statistical Tests

Pearson correlation test, Bland–Altman analysis, paired t‐test, and intraclass correlation coefficient. A P value <0.05 indicates a statistically significant difference.

Results

Phantom experiments showed comparable accuracy of T1 maps by BB‐MP2RAGE with IR‐SE and MP2RAGE (all r2 > 0.99); Compared to MP2RAGE, BB‐MP2RAGE effectively nulled the blood flow signals, and had a significant improvement in contrast‐to‐noise ratio between static tissue and blood (250.5 ± 66.6 vs. 91.9 ± 35.9). BB‐MP2RAGE can quantify plaque or thrombus T1 relaxation time with blood flow signal suppression.

Data Conclusion

Accurate T1 mapping with sufficient blood flow suppression was achieved by BB‐MP2RAGE. BB‐MP2RAGE has the potential to quantitatively characterize atherosclerosis and venous thrombosis.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Assessment of hepatitis B virus infection and interhost cellular responses using intrahepatic cholangiocyte organoids
Authors: Lim Chuan K. , Romeo Ornella , Tran Bang M. , Flanagan Dustin J. , Kirby Emily N. , McCartney Erin M. , Tse Edmund , Vincan Elizabeth , Beard Michael R.
Published: November 2023

The intrahepatic cholangiocyte organoids (ICOs) model was evaluated for host differences in hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, cellular responses, antiviral and immunomodulator responses. Twelve ICOs generated from liver resections and biopsies were assessed for metabolic markers and functional HBV entry receptor expression throughout differentiation. Structural changes relevant to HBV infection were characterized using histology, confocal, and electron microscopy examinations. Optimal ICO culture conditions for HBV infection using HepAD38 (genotype D) and plasma‐derived HBV (genotype B and C) were described. HBV infection was confirmed using HBcAg immunostaining, qRT‐PCR (RNA, covalently closed circular DNA [cccDNA], extracellular DNA) and ELISA (HBsAg and HBeAg). Drug response to antiviral and immunosuppressive agent, and cellular responses (interferon‐stimulated genes [ISG]) to interferon‐α and viral mimic (PolyI:C) were assessed. ICOs underwent metabolic and structural remodeling following differentiation. Optimal HBV infection was achieved in well‐differentiated ICOs using spinoculation, with time and donor‐dependent increase in HBV RNA, cccDNA, extracellular DNA, HBeAg and HBsAg. Donor‐dependent drug responsiveness to entry inhibitor and JAK inhibitor was observed. Despite having a robust ISG response to interferon‐α and PolyI:C, HBV infection in ICOs did not upregulate ISGs. Human ICOs support HBV infection and replication with donor‐dependent variation in viral dynamics and cellular responses. These features can be utilized for the development of personalized drug testing platform for antivirals.
Unraveling the evolutionary patterns and phylogenomics of coronaviruses: A consensus network approach
Authors: Hu Geng‐Ming , Tai Yu‐Chen , Chen Chi‐Ming
Published: November 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic emphasizes the significance of studying coronaviruses (CoVs). This study investigates the evolutionary patterns of 350 CoVs using four structural proteins (S, E, M, and N) and introduces a consensus methodology to construct a comprehensive phylogenomic network. Our clustering of CoVs into 4 genera is consistent with the current CoV classification. Additionally, we calculate network centrality measures to identify CoV strains with significant average weighted degree and betweenness centrality values, with a specific focus on RaTG13 in the beta genus and NGA/A116E7/2006 in the gamma genus. We compare the phylogenetics of CoVs using our distance‐based approach and the character‐based model with IQ‐TREE. Both methods yield largely consistent outcomes, indicating the reliability of our consensus approach. However, it is worth mentioning that our consensus method achieves an approximate 5000‐fold increase in speed compared to IQ‐TREE when analyzing the data set of 350 CoVs. This improved efficiency enhances the feasibility of conducting large‐scale phylogenomic studies on CoVs.
Understanding the resurgence of chikungunya virus during 2020−2021 in Pune, India, based on genomic analyses: A seven year study
Authors: Alagarasu Kalichamy , Patil Jayashri , Jadhav Santoshkumar , Chowdhury Deepika , Bote Minal , Punekar Madhura , More Ashwini , Kakade Mahadeo , Bachal Rupali , Gurav Yogesh , Cherian Sarah , Parashar Deepti
Published: November 2023

A surge in chikungunya was observed during 2020‐21 in Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of 21 samples/sequences revealed them as Indian ocean lineage of East Central South African genotype. Two distinct sequence clusters were found to circulate during 2020‐21; one with E1:K211E and E2:V264A mutations while the other had E1:I317V mutation along with E1:K211E and E2: V264A mutations. The former, the predominant cluster (n = 18), clustered with chikungunya virus (CHIKV) strains of pre 2014 period while the latter (n = 3) clustered with 2016−2018 period Indian strains. Though E1: A226V was not detected in any of the 21 sequences, several unique mutations were detected in the strains which might have played key roles in the enhanced virus transmission during the period. The study highlights parallel evolution, introduction from the neighboring regions and cocirculation of two sequence clusters of CHIKV in Pune. The complete genome data can be useful to determine how the circulating strains differ from candidate vaccines and might help to predict the protective efficacy of chikungunya vaccine candidates.
Serological analysis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in children with Kawasaki disease
Authors: Kondo Yotaro , Kawamura Yoshiki , Hattori Fumihiko , Nakai Hidetaka , Saito Kazuyoshi , Suzuki Daijiro , Kozawa Kei , Yoshikawa Tetsushi
Published: November 2023

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) was reported as a severe complication of coronavirus disease 2019; an infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), and was suggested to be associated with Kawasaki disease (KD) in terms of severe systemic inflammation and mucocutaneous symptoms. Because severe gastrointestinal symptoms and systemic shock are more frequently observed with MIS‐C, patients with mild MIS‐C might have been diagnosed with KD. In this study, titers of IgG antibodies against the SARS‐CoV‐2 S (S‐IgG) and N proteins (N‐IgG) were measured in 99 serum samples collected from patients with KD treated between January 2020 and December 2021 to evaluate the relationship between KD and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. S‐IgG were detected in only one patient out of 99 patients. This patient had coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) 10 months before KD onset, and was unlikely MIS‐C. According to characters of S‐IgG and N‐IgG, the patients was unlikely infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 just before the onset of KD. In addition to this study, the 26th Nationwide Survey and previous studies showed an association between KD and SARS‐CoV‐2 to be unlikely. In conclusion, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was not observed in patients with KD until Delta predominance in Japan by the method of detecting SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG.
A multilevel model linking altruistic motivation to workplace safety: The role of servant leadership
Authors: He Yimin , Sheng Zitong , Griffin Mark , Yao Xiang
Published: November 2023

Previous research on the motivational factors of safety performance has predominantly focused on one's willingness to directly enact safety behaviors or safety‐specific motivation. The current study extends beyond this view and examines an additional motivational force, altruistic motivation, as a main predictor of employees' safety performance at both individual and team levels. Further, we provide that servant leadership serves as a critical precursor of employee altruistic motivation. A sample of 416 nurses in 42 workgroups and their respective supervisors from a hospital in China completed a two‐wave survey. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to analyze the data. The results indicated that altruistic motivation was positively related to safety performance at both individual and team levels, with a stronger effect at the team level, supporting a proportional theory of homology. Multilevel mediation results showed that servant leadership was positively related to altruistic motivation, which in turn positively led to safety performance at both individual and team levels. These findings highlight both the theoretical and practical importance of encouraging altruistic motivation to improve workplace safety.
In vitro bioaccessibility of biguanide‐related compounds and phenolics from yellow, red, and purple‐fleshed potatoes
Authors: Raigond Pinky , Parmar Vandana , Luthra Satish Kumar , Thakur Asha , Kumar Vinod , Dutt Som , Dalamu  , Jayanty Sastry S. , Singh Brajesh
Published: November 2023

Background

Diabetes type II is growing rapidly as a result of the global shift in dietary and lifestyle habits. Although there are many pharmacological treatments for diabetes, incorporating foods with antidiabetic components into daily diet will be helpful. The present study compared the difference in the bioaccessibility of biguanide‐related compounds (BRCs, antidiabetic compounds) and phenolics from yellow, red, and purple potatoes.

Results

Color‐based averaged results showed that only biofortified red‐fleshed advanced potato clones showed higher bioaccessibility (14%) of BRCs compared to light yellow potatoes. Among all the tested compounds, only BRCs were released to maximum extent in the intestinal phase from all varieties and advance clones. This is the first report that revealed potatoes to be a good source of BRCs due to their high bioaccessibility. Bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds from boiled potatoes was 1.1‐fold higher in red colored, whereas almost 2‐fold higher in purple potatoes. Compared to light yellow potatoes, bioaccesibility of 3‐caffeoylquinic acid, 5‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid and 4‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid was 5.1, 5.7, 4.6 fold higher in boiled red potatoes, respectively, and 4.6, 3.7, and 6.9 fold higher in boiled purple potatoes, respectively. Total anthocyanins showed color‐dependent bioaccessibility and were 3.2 and 16.2 fold more bioaccessible from red and purple boiled potatoes, respectively, compared to light yellow potatoes.

Conclusion

Due to high bioaccessibility of phenolics, anthocyanins, and BRCs, purple and red potatoes can play pivotal role in health improvement of consumers worldwide. However, further detailed bioavailability studies are required to confirm these results.
Techno‐functional properties of dry‐fractionated plant‐based proteins and application in food product development: a review
Authors: De Angelis Davide , Latrofa Vittoria , Caponio Francesco , Pasqualone Antonella , Summo Carmine
Published: November 2023

Dry‐fractionated protein concentrates are gaining attention because they are produced using a versatile and sustainable technology, which can be applied to a wide range of plant material. To facilitate their utilization in new product development, it is crucial to obtain a comprehensive overview of their techno‐functional properties. The present review aims to examine the techno‐functional properties of dry‐fractionated protein concentrates and describe their primary applications in food products, considering the published works in the last decade. The techno‐functional properties of proteins, including water absorption capacity, emulsifying and foaming properties, gelling ability or protein solubility, are relevant factors to consider during food formulation. However, these properties are significantly influenced by the extraction technology, the type of protein and its characteristics. Overall, dry‐fractionated proteins are characterized by high protein solubility, high foaming ability and foam stability, and high gelling ability. Such properties have been exploited in the development of food, such as bakery products and pasta, with the aim of increasing the protein content and enhancing the nutritional value. Additionally, innovative foods with distinctive textural and nutritional characteristics, such as meat and dairy analogues, have been developed by using dry‐fractionated proteins. The results indicate that the study of these ingredients still needs to be improved, including their application with a broader range of plant materials. Nevertheless, this review could represent an initial step to obtaining an overview of the techno‐functional properties of dry‐fractionated proteins, facilitating their use in foods. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Soil properties following borrow pit reclamation with insufficient topsoil amended with peat and biochar
Authors: Nawu Takudzwa , Zvomuya Francis , Adesanya Theresa , Amarakoon Inoka , Bekele Asfaw
Published: November 2023

Disturbed sites, such as borrow pits and oil and natural gas well sites, require reclamation to restore and sustain levels of productivity similar to those prior to the disturbance. However, salvaged topsoil at many sites is often insufficient to meet the 80% topsoil replacement depth (TRD80) required for successful reclamation in western Canada. This 5‐year study evaluated soil responses to 50% topsoil replacement depth without organic amendment (TRD50) or amended with either peat (PTRD50) or biochar (BTRD50), relative to the TRD80 treatment (Control), following borrow pit reclamation at a disturbed boreal site near Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada. Amendments were applied once at rates calculated to raise the soil organic carbon (SOC) content in the TRD50 soil to a level equal to that in the TRD80 treatment. Results showed a 143%, 87%, and 116% increase in total Kjeldahl nitrogen concentration in the PTRD50 relative to the TRD80, TRD50, and BTRD50 treatments, respectively, while soil potassium (K) concentration was significantly greater for BTRD50 than PTRD50. Peat and biochar significantly increased SOC concentrations by 83% and 88%, respectively, relative to the mean of TRD80 and TRD50 treatments. Our results show that peat and biochar can improve soil properties of disturbed boreal sites reclaimed with insufficient salvaged topsoil to a level suitable for successful reclamation. This has important implications on the reclamation of a multitude of disturbed sites, in Canada and globally, that have insufficient volumes of salvaged topsoil needed for successful reclamation.
An assessment of HgII to preserve carbonate system parameters in organic‐rich estuarine waters
Authors: Moore Christopher S. , Byrne Robert H. , Yates Kimberly K.
Published: November 2023

This work assesses the effectiveness of sample preservation techniques for measurements of pHT (total scale), total dissolved inorganic carbon (CT), and total alkalinity (AT) in organic‐rich estuarine waters as well as the internal consistency of measurements and calculations (e.g., AT, pHT, and CT) in these waters. Using mercuric chloride (HgCl2)‐treated and untreated water samples, measurements of these carbonate system parameters were examined over a period of 3 months. Respiration of dissolved organic matter in untreated samples created large discrepancies in CT concentrations (~37 μmol kg−1 increase, p < 0.0001), while CT was effectively constant in treated samples (3095.0 ± 1.14 μmol kg−1). AT changes were observed for both treated and untreated samples, with HgCl2‐treated samples showing the greatest variation (~ 26 μmol kg−1 decrease, p < 0.001). In response to changing AT/CT ratios, pHT changes occurred in both treated and untreated samples but were relatively small in treated samples. Results in organic‐rich estuarine waters that reflect the in situ carbonate system characteristics of the samples at the time of collection can be improved when samples obtained for CT and AT analysis are collected and stored separately. Accurate analyses of CT can be obtained by filtration and preservation with HgCl2. Accuracy of AT analyses can be improved by filtration and storage without adding HgCl2. The quality of pHT measurements can be improved by prompt analysis in the field and, if this cannot be accomplished, then samples can be preserved with HgCl2 and measured in the laboratory within 1 week.
Consuming for the authentic‐self: How exposure to death‐related information facilitates voluntary simplicity?
Authors: Liu Hongyan , Chen Yanxia , Liu Wumei
Published: November 2023

Despite the growing prevalence of voluntary simplicity as a consumption value embraced by brands in recent years, limited research has empirically explored the antecedents of voluntary simplicity. This study addresses this research gap by investigating the impact of death‐related information on voluntary simplicity. Through five studies, we demonstrate that exposure to death‐related information increases voluntary simplicity (Studies 1, 2). This increase occurs because consumers exposed to death‐related information are motivated to pursue their authentic selves (Studies 3, 4). However, we further reveal that this effect disappears when the message appeal of death‐related information is emotional (Study 5). Our findings suggest that brands can implement communication strategies highlighting voluntary simplicity when consumers are exposed to death‐related information.
Progress in RAS‐targeted therapeutic strategies: From small molecule inhibitors to proteolysis targeting chimeras
Authors: Lu Xinchen , Jin Jinmei , Wu Ye , Liu Xiaoxia , Liang Xiaohui , Lin Jiayi , Sun Qingyan , Qin Jiangjiang , Zhang Weidong , Luan Xin
Published: November 2023

As a widely considerable target in chemical biology and pharmacological research, rat sarcoma (RAS) gene mutations play a critical driving factor in several fatal cancers. Despite the great progress of RAS subtype‐specific inhibitors, rapid acquired drug resistance could limit their further clinical applications. Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) has emerged as a powerful tool to handle “undruggable” targets and exhibited significant therapeutic benefit for the combat of drug resistance. Owing to unique molecular mechanism and binding kinetics, PROTAC is expected to become a feasible strategy to break the bottleneck of classical RAS inhibitors. This review aims to discuss the current advances of RAS inhibitors and especially focus on PROTAC strategy targeting RAS mutations and their downstream effectors for relevant cancer treatment.
Approximation by double matrix means of bivariate functions belonging to weighted Lipschitz and Zygmund classes
Authors: Devaiya Sachin , Srivastava Shailesh Kumar
Published: November 2023

This study focuses on the rate of uniform approximation for continuous functions
‐periodic in each variable, using double matrix means of the rectangular partial sums of double Fourier series. The importance of the weighted integral modulus of symmetric smoothness lies in its ability to capture the local behavior of a function. So we obtain the results in terms of the weighted integral modulus of symmetric smoothness. In addition, we introduce the concept of the weighted Lipschitz and Zygmund classes as an extension of the existing Lipschitz classes
and
and Zygmund classes
and
, respectively. These weighted classes allow us a more detailed analysis of the approximation rates of functions by assigning the weights to different regions of the domain of function. Further, we prove two theorems about the degree (error) of approximation of functions belonging to these classes using double matrix means. We also discuss some corollaries from our results.
The relationship between volunteer management, satisfaction, and intention to continue volunteering in sport events: An environmental psychology perspective
Authors: Chiu Weisheng , Kang Hyoung‐Kil , Cho Heetae
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between volunteer management, motivation, satisfaction, and continuance intention to volunteer through the lens of Mehrabian and Russell's (1974) environmental psychology model. Moreover, the moderating effect of the volunteer experience was examined in the relationships between constructs. Data were collected from volunteers participating in various sport events in Singapore (N = 290). Results showed volunteer management positively influenced volunteers' satisfaction, which in turn affected their continuance intention. Moreover, motivation had a positive impact on both satisfaction and continuance intention. In addition, the moderating role of volunteer experience was identified. Based on Mehrabian and Russell's (1974) environmental psychology model, the findings of this study offered an alternative perspective on volunteers' satisfaction and continuance intention and provided insights into specific groups of volunteers.
Predicting the Outcomes of Oropharyngeal Surgery in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using Tongue‐Retaining Devices
Authors: Yeh Peng , Huang Tsung‐Wei
Published: November 2023

Objective

To determine the efficacy of a tongue‐retaining device (TRD) in predicting the outcomes of oropharyngeal surgery in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) before surgery.

Study Design

A prospective case‐control study.

Setting

A single tertiary medical center.

Methods

Patients with moderate‐severe OSA who underwent both uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and tongue base suspension between January 2022 and July 2022 were included. Each patient underwent a series of 3 overnight polysomnography. Objective outcomes include apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI), minimal oxygen saturation, and reduction rate of AHI. The correlation between the reduction rate of AHI with TRD and surgery was analyzed with linear regression.

Results

The reduction rates of AHI were significantly different between the group using TRD (44 ± 24%) and the postoperative group (55 ± 21%). The cross‐tabulation revealed a strong association between a positive response to TRD treatment and a positive response to surgery. The use of TRD to evaluate surgical response demonstrated a positive predictive value of 90% and a negative predictive value of 70%. A strong correlation between the decrease in AHI was observed in both TRD and surgery groups, which was demonstrated by a steep slope in the scatter plot and a significant simple linear regression line.

Conclusion

Preoperative TRD response is an accurate tool for predicting the success of oropharyngeal surgery in managing OSA patients before surgical treatment. Furthermore, a quantifiable positive linear correlation exists between the efficacy of preoperative TRD treatment and surgery.
Language Patterns in Letters of Recommendation for Residency Applicants in Otolaryngology
Authors: Campbell James C. , Canick Julia E. , Redmond Rebecca , Lee Janet W. , Woodard Charles R. , Grimm Lars J.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Assess for gender and race patterns in agentic and communal language used in letters of recommendation for Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) residency applicants.

Study Design

Retrospective content analysis.

Setting

Applications from OHNS applications at a single training institution for the 2019 and 2020 match cycles.

Methods

A total of 2283 letters of recommendation for 611 OHNS applicants were analyzed. Applicant and letter writer gender, applicant race and ethnicity, and applicant characteristics including United States Medical Licensing Examination® Step 1 score, research productivity, and medical school rank were extracted. Agentic and communal word use from the letters of recommendation was compared across applicant and writer characteristics using multilevel negative binomial regression modeling.

Results

Letter writers use a greater rate of agentic terms when describing applicants who self‐identify as Asian (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.16, p < .01) or “Other/not reported” (IRR = 1.23, p < .01) as compared to white applicants. Further, standardized letters of evaluation had significantly more communal language and less agentic language. Although there was an increase in communal language in letters for female applicants compared to male applicants, these gender differences disappeared in the multivariate model.

Conclusion

Multivariate analysis demonstrated no significant gender‐based patterns in the communal or agentic language in letters of recommendation for OHNS residency applicants. However, letters for applicants identifying as Asian or “other/not reported” had more frequent use of agentic terms. Future studies should investigate other components of residency applications to assess how gender and race bias might unfairly influence an applicant's chances at a given program.