bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unconditional Cash Transfers and Maternal Assessments of Children's Health, Nutrition, and Sleep
Authors: Sperber Jessica F. , Gennetian Lisa A. , Hart Emma R. , Kunin-Batson Alicia , Magnuson Katherine , Duncan Greg J. , Yoshikawa Hirokazu , Fox Nathan A. , Halpern-Meekin Sarah , Noble Kimberly G.
Published: September 2023

Importance

Children experiencing poverty are more likely to experience worse health outcomes, including injury, chronic illness, worse nutrition, and poorer sleep. The extent to which poverty reduction improves these outcomes is unknown.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of a 3-year, monthly unconditional cash transfer on health, nutrition, sleep, and health care utilization among children experiencing poverty who were healthy at birth.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This longitudinal randomized clinical trial recruited 1000 mother-infant dyads between May 2018 and June 2019. Dyads were recruited from postpartum wards in 12 hospitals in 4 US cities: New York, New York; Omaha, Nebraska; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Minneapolis/St Paul, Minnesota. Eligibility criteria included an annual income less than the federal poverty line, legal age for consent, English or Spanish speaking, residing in the state of recruitment, and an infant admitted to the well-baby nursery who will be discharged to the mother’s custody. Data analysis was conducted from July 2022 to August 2023.

Intervention

Mothers were randomly assigned to receive either a high-cash gift ($333/mo, or $3996/y) or a low-cash gift ($20/mo, or $240/y) for the first several years of their child’s life.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary preregistered outcomes reported here include an index of child health and medical care and child sleep disturbances. Secondary preregistered outcomes reported include children’s consumption of healthy and unhealthy foods.

Results

A total of 1000 mother-infant dyads were enrolled, with 400 randomized to the high-cash gift group and 600 to the low-cash gift group. Participants were majority Black (42%) and Hispanic (41%); 857 mothers participated in all 3 waves of data collection. We found no statistically detectable differences between the high-cash and low-cash gift groups in maternal assessments of children’s health (effect size [ES] range, 0.01-0.08; SE range, 0.02-0.07), sleep (ES range, 0.01-0.10; SE, 0.07), or health care utilization (ES range, 0.01-0.11; SE range, 0.03-0.07). However, mothers in the high-cash gift group reported higher child consumption of fresh produce at child age 2 years, the only time point it was measured (ES, 0.17; SE, 0.07; P = .03).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, unconditional cash transfers to mothers experiencing poverty did not improve reports of their child’s health, sleep, or health care utilization. However, stable income support of this magnitude improved toddlers’ consumption of fresh produce. Healthy newborns tend to grow into healthy toddlers, and the impacts of poverty reduction on children’s health and sleep may not be fully borne out until later in life.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03593356
Beyond chromosome analysis: Additional genetic testing practice in a Down syndrome clinic
Authors: Harisinghani Ayesha , Raffaele Gabriella , Zawatsky Carrie Blout , Santoro Stephanie L.
Published: September 2023

Down syndrome (DS) and other genetic conditions have been reported to co‐occur in the same person. This study sought to examine the genetic evaluation beyond chromosome analysis of individuals with DS at one DS specialty clinic. Retrospective chart review of genetic testing performed beyond chromosome analysis, the indication for the genetic testing, and the result of the genetic testing from the electronic health record was performed. Demographic information was collected and summary statistics, including mean and frequency, were calculated. The charts of 637 individuals with DS were reviewed. Overall, 146 genetic tests in addition to routine chromosome analysis were performed on 92 individuals with DS. Tests included chromosomal microarray, gene panels, and whole exome sequencing. Tests were performed for the indication of: autism spectrum disorder, celiac disease, dementia, hematologic diseases, and others. Eleven individuals with DS were found to have a second genetic diagnosis. Individuals with DS in one multidisciplinary clinic for DS had a variety of genetic tests beyond chromosomes completed, for varied indications, and with some abnormal results leading to additional diagnoses. Additional genetic testing beyond chromosome analysis is a reasonable consideration for patients with DS who have features suggestive of a secondary diagnosis.
Development of structured W/O emulsions with the use of only candelilla wax
Authors: de la Peña‐Gil Anaid , Charo‐Alonso Miriam , Toro‐Vazquez Jorge F.
Published: September 2023

We investigated the development of water‐in‐oil (W/O) emulsions using only candelilla wax (CW), evaluating the effects of different water to CW oleogel ratios (40:60, 50:50, 60:40) and the CW concentration (0.75% to 3%). The emulsions were developed by shearing the systems with an ultra‐turrax type homogenizer (60 s at 25°C) at the different water to CW oleogel ratios. After 0 and 20 days of storage (25°C) the emulsions were evaluated through microscopy, rheology, water droplet diameter, emulsion stability, and x‐ray diffraction measurements. The results showed that at all water to CW oleogel ratios the surface‐active components of the CW (i.e., triterpenic alcohols, aliphatic alcohols, and fatty acids) stabilized the oil–water interface, while the n‐alkanes and long chain esters formed an oleogel in the oil phase. Independent of the storage time, all the CW emulsions showed frequency independent rheological behavior. However, after applying a strain within the plastic region the 40:60 and 50:50 emulsions formulated with 1.5% to 3% CW provided the higher elasticity and emulsion stability, even after two freeze‐thaw cycles. In particular, the 40:60 and 50:50 emulsions with 1.5% CW had a recovery profile similar to commercial mayonnaise. In contrast, independent of the CW concentration, the 60:40 emulsions showed the lowest recovery profile and highest emulsion instability. These results showed the CW as a multifunctional material capable to develop structured W/O emulsions at room temperature without adding surfactants. The structured W/O emulsions developed by CW could be useful in the formulation of trans‐free, stable low‐fat edible spreads.
Improved LC–MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of tacrolimus and cyclosporine A in human blood and application to therapeutic drug monitoring
Authors: Chen Feng , Yang Xiaoxia , Li Huanhuan , Zeng Xiaodan , Deng Ziwei , Wang Hongqiang , Jin Yuanxiang , Qiu Chengfeng , Shi Zhihua
Published: September 2023

In order to facilitate therapeutic drug monitoring of tacrolimus and cyclosporine A in clinical practice, a simple, rapid, robust, sensitive and specific LC–MS/MS assay was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of tacrolimus and cyclosporine A in human whole blood. Erythrocytes were destroyed using internal standard solution with 10% (w/v) zinc sulfate in water. The analytes were extracted from 100 μl of whole blood by protein precipitation with acetonitrile. Chromatographic separation was conducted on a Kinetex PFP column (60°C) by a gradient elution with a flow rate of 0.450 ml/min in 2.5 min. Quantitative analysis was performed using electrospray ionization and multiple reaction monitoring in positive ionization mode. The method was fully validated as per current guidelines on bioanalytical methodologies of the US Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency. The method developed was applied successfully in analyzing clinical samples from patients administered tacrolimus or cyclosporine A. The sample treatment procedure was rationalized and improved to fulfill the complete target extraction. The chromatography conditions were optimized to achieve rapid and accurate quantification of both analytes. This method may be beneficial as a constructive input for the therapeutic drug monitoring of tacrolimus and cyclosporine A in obtaining individualized therapy.
SIG/CR Workshop: Conceptual Crowbars and Classification at the Crossroads: The Impact and Future of Classification Research
Authors: Adler Melissa
Published: September 2023

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

Special Interest Group/Classification Research (SIG/CR) explored the significance of studies on classification and its real world effects through paper presentations by students and faculty at the 2015 ASIS&T Annual Meeting workshop. Presenters looked at the effects of approaches to classifying and structuring knowledge and at the ways classification models frame similarities and differences and influence views of society and the world. Among the papers on specific models and cases were presentations on capturing situation semantics in metadata, classifications of violence and disasters and historians' perspectives on organizing information. Fundamental philosophical positions were shown to inform classifications, and the effects of classificatory systems evolve with time. Other papers addressed the cultural, political and theoretical consequences of compiling a controlled vocabulary, outsourcing metadata and information resources for classification of social and cultural issues. The workshop ended with the announcement of new officers and presentation of student scholarships.
Voice and Tone as Information Architecture
Authors: Garklavs Kate
Published: September 2023

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

Essential components of effective content design in information architecture are the voice and tone of written communications. Voice is a consistent reflection of an organization's unique personality and core values, while tone varies by context and immediate purpose while still conveying a larger meaning. Together, carefully crafted voice and tone help an organization connect emotionally with its audience and convey messages with the appropriate intent. Codifying voice in an editorial style guide helps ensure consistency in content and nurtures audience loyalty. Elements to consider in communicating through the identified voice include sentence length and type, use of modifiers, punctuation and formality of expression. Tone should be tailored to typical user personas. It is useful to link tone to situations, feelings and communication in a table, to test by reading messages aloud to oneself and then share with colleagues and actual users and to vary elements to achieve the desired impact.
Social inequality in cancer survivorship: Educational differences in health‐related quality of life among 27,857 cancer survivors in Denmark
Authors: Levinsen Anne Katrine Graudal , Kjaer Trille Kristina , Thygesen Lau Caspar , Maltesen Thomas , Jakobsen Erik , Gögenur Ismail , Borre Michael , Christiansen Peer , Zachariae Robert , Christensen Peter , Laurberg Søren , de Nully Brown Peter , Hölmich Lisbet Rosenkrantz , Johansen Christoffer , Kjær Susanne K. , van de Poll‐Franse Lonneke , Saltbæk Lena , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg
Published: September 2023

Background

With a growing population of cancer survivors in Denmark, the evaluation of health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) has become increasingly important. We describe variations in HRQoL between educational groups in a national population of cancer survivors.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional questionnaire study among breast, prostate, lung, and colon cancer survivors diagnosed in 2010–2019 in Denmark. We used the EORTC QLQ‐C30 to assess HRQoL including physical, role, emotional, cognitive, social functioning, and symptoms (fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain, dyspnea, insomnia, appetite loss, constipation, diarrhea, and financial difficulties). Information on educational level and clinical data were extracted from national registers and clinical databases. Levels of impaired functioning and severe symptoms were identified using newly established thresholds for clinical importance. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine associations between education and HRQoL. All statistical tests were 2‐sided.

Results

In total, 27,857 (42%) participated in the study. Up to 72% and 75% of cancer survivors with short education (≤9 years) reported impaired functioning and severe symptoms, respectively. Cancer survivors with short compared to long education (>12 years) were more likely to report impaired functioning and severe symptoms, with for example significantly higher odds ratios (ORs) for impaired physical function (breast OR = 2.41, 99% CI = 2.01–2.89; prostate OR = 1.81, 99% CI = 1.48–2.21; lung OR = 2.97, 99% CI = 1.95–4.57; and colon cancer OR = 1.69, 99% CI = 1.28–2.24).

Conclusions

Cancer survivors with short education are at greater risk of impaired HRQoL than survivors with long education 2–12 years after diagnosis. This underscores the need for systematic screening and symptom management in cancer aftercare, in order to reach all cancer survivors, also cancer survivors with short education.
Left ventricular apical aneurysm resection and mitral valve replacement for apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Nishiori Hironobu , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Hirano Yuichi , Otsu Masayoshi
Published: September 2023

Key clinical message

Left ventricular apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with an apical aneurysm carries a risk of thrombosis and can also lead to atrial fibrillation and functional mitral regurgitation.

A 78‐year‐old woman underwent left ventricular apical aneurysm (LVAA) resection and mitral valve replacement for severe atrial functional mitral regurgitation. ApHCM can cause atrial fibrillation and atrial functional mitral valve regurgitation. LVAA resection in addition to mitral valve replacement was reasonable to prevent fatal complications associated with LVAA.
Fluorination Influences the Bioisostery of Myo‐Inositol Pyrophosphate Analogs
Authors: Hostachy Sarah , Wang Huanchen , Zong Guangning , Franke Katy , Riley Andrew M. , Schmieder Peter , Potter Barry V. L. , Shears Stephen B. , Fiedler Dorothea
Published: September 2023

Inositol pyrophosphates (PP−IPs) are densely phosphorylated messenger molecules involved in numerous biological processes. PP−IPs contain one or two pyrophosphate group(s) attached to a phosphorylated myo‐inositol ring. 5PP−IP5 is the most abundant PP−IP in human cells. To investigate the function and regulation by PP−IPs in biological contexts, metabolically stable analogs have been developed. Here, we report the synthesis of a new fluorinated phosphoramidite reagent and its application for the synthesis of a difluoromethylene bisphosphonate analog of 5PP−IP5. Subsequently, the properties of all currently reported analogs were benchmarked using a number of biophysical and biochemical methods, including co‐crystallization, ITC, kinase activity assays and chromatography. Together, the results showcase how small structural alterations of the analogs can have notable effects on their properties in a biochemical setting and will guide in the choice of the most suitable analog(s) for future investigations.
Impact of M‐Site Cation Variation on Structural, Electronic, and Optical Properties of Pd3M2Se2 (M = Pb, Sn) Dichalcogenides: A Computational Study
Authors: Rabu Rabeya Akter , Hossain Kamal , Khanom Mst. Shamima , Hossain Md. Kamal , Ahmed Farid
Published: September 2023

The optimized structure of Pd3M2Se2 (M = Pb and Sn) compounds is used to explore the M‐Site cation variation. Density functional theory (DFT) using generalized gradient approximation (GGA) with Hubbard potential (GGA+U) and Wu and Cohen (GGA+WC) functionals are used to examine the physical characteristics. The chemical stability is indicated by negative values for the formation energy and obtained as −26.75 eV and −28.25 eV for Pd3Pb2Se2 and Pd3Sn2Se2 compounds respectively. The feeble interaction of Se‐4p and Pb‐6p orbital electrons in the conduction band results in a considerable contribution. As a result, the energy bands of the Pd3Pb2Se2 structure are altered in such a way that it has a high electrical conductivity. The Pd3Pb2Se2 and Pd3Sn2Se2 structures are metallic, with both ionic and covalent interactions, according to electronic population studies. While the extinction coefficient for the Pd3Pb2Se2 compound is 4.20 at 0.65 eV, the Pd3Sn2Se2 structure has a highest peak of 7.20 at this energy, indicating their photoelectric applicability. The Pd3Pb2Se2 and Pd3Sn2Se2 structures seemed to be transparent to photons energy at 16.4 eV and 18.20 eV respectively. These shandite compounds showed superior absorption for Ultraviolet (UV) photon energy as well as efficient infrared and visible light absorption with conductivity.
Polymeric Electrolytes for Solid‐state Lithium Ion Batteries: Structure Design, Electrochemical Properties and Cell Performances
Authors: Su Gang , Zhang Xin , Xiao Min , Wang Shuanjin , Huang Sheng , Han Dongmei , Meng Yuezhong
Published: September 2023

Solid‐state electrolytes are key to achieving high energy density, safety, and stability for lithium‐ion batteries. In this Review, core indicators of solid polymer electrolytes are discussed in detail including ionic conductivity, interface compatibility, mechanical integrity, and cycling stability. Besides, we also summarize how above properties can be improved by design strategies of functional monomers, groups, and assembly of batteries. Structures and properties of polymers are investigated here to provide a basis for all‐solid‐state electrolyte design strategies of multi‐component polymers. In addition, adjustment strategies of quasi‐solid‐state polymer electrolytes such as adding functional additives and carrying out structural design are also investigated, aiming at solving problems caused by simply adding liquids or small molecular plasticizer. We hope that fresh and established researchers can achieve a general perspective of solid polymer electrolytes via this Review and spur more extensive interests for exploration of high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries.
Exploring the prospective relationships between food addiction symptoms, weight bias internalization, and psychological distress in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Barnhart Wesley R. , Cui Tianxiang , Cui Shuqi , Ren Yaoxiang , Ji Feng , He Jinbo
Published: September 2023

Objective

Relationships exist between food addiction symptoms, weight bias internalization, and psychological distress, yet previous research is primarily cross‐sectional with adults from Western contexts. We examined the prospective relationships between food addiction symptoms, weight bias internalization, and psychological distress in Chinese adolescents.

Methods

Over three time points (Time 1, baseline; Time 2, 6‐months; Time 3, 12‐months) spanning 1 year, we examined cross‐sectional and bi‐directional relationships between food addiction symptoms, weight bias internalization, and psychological distress in Chinese adolescents (N = 589; aged 14–18 years at baseline). Pearson correlations and cross‐lagged models examined the cross‐sectional and longitudinal relationships between food addiction symptoms, weight bias internalization, and psychological distress.

Results

Cross‐sectional correlations suggested positive relationships between food addiction symptoms, weight bias internalization, and psychological distress at each time point. Regarding bi‐directional relationships, higher psychological distress was associated with both higher weight bias internalization and higher food addiction symptoms at the following time points. However, food addiction symptoms and weight bias internalization were not prospectively associated. Time 2 psychological distress did not significantly mediate the relationship between Time 1 weight bias internalization and Time 3 food addiction symptoms.

Discussion

Findings suggest no direct longitudinal link between food addiction symptoms and weight bias internalization and vice versa. However, findings do suggest that psychological distress is temporally associated with higher food addiction symptoms and weight bias internalization in Chinese adolescents. Targeting psychological distress may prove useful in treatments of food addiction symptoms and weight bias internalization in Chinese adolescents.

Public Significance

Positive associations exist between food addiction symptoms, weight bias internalization, and psychological distress, but findings are largely cross‐sectional and bound to adult populations from Western contexts. Using a longitudinal design in Chinese adolescents, findings suggested that baseline psychological distress was associated with higher food addiction symptoms and higher weight bias internalization at follow‐up time points. Treatments targeting psychological distress may be helpful in reducing food addiction symptoms and weight bias internalization in Chinese adolescents.
Tensions between collective‐self forgiveness and political repair
Authors: Wenzel Michael , Quinney Blake , Wohl Michael J. A. , Barron Anna , Woodyatt Lydia
Published: September 2023

Faced with collective guilt, perpetrator groups may seek collective‐self forgiveness. However, does this diminish their support for political repair? Advancing the concept of collective‐self forgiveness, we distinguish between end‐state collective‐self forgiveness as restored moral identity and two processes: pseudo collective‐self forgiveness as defensive downplaying and genuine collective‐self forgiveness as ‘working through’ the ingroup's guilt. In three studies, non‐Indigenous Australians (N = 369, 800 and 785) were surveyed about currently debated constitutional changes for the recognition and empowerment of Indigenous Australians. Pseudo and genuine collective‐self forgiveness were positively related to end‐state collective‐self forgiveness. Pseudo and end‐state were negative, but genuine collective‐self forgiveness positively, related to support for repair and truth telling. Participants identifying with both Australians and Indigenous Australians more strongly endorsed genuine collective‐self forgiveness. The results suggest a pathway for perpetrator group members to balance identity needs with commitment to repair, but highlight drawbacks of seeing collective‐self forgiveness as an end‐state objective.
High‐pressure methane storage on metal‐organic frameworks
Authors: Chuvikov Sergey V. , Klyamkin Semen N.
Published: September 2023

Methane storage performance of a series of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) has been thoroughly examined over a wide pressure range up to 750 bar. Based on volumetric adsorption measurements, crystal structure and porous texture characterization, excess, total and working adsorption capacities, and heat of adsorption as functions of pressure have been evaluated. It has been found that the use of MOFs demonstrates a significant advantage in methane storage capacity over compressed gas, and the Gain can reach 300% to 400% depending on the pressure‐temperature operating conditions. However, the benefit of adsorption storage drops with increasing pressure. Even for the best MOF adsorbent, this methane storage method becomes technologically unreasonable above 280 bar. The data obtained allowed us to conclude that conventionally reported excess adsorption does not give a complete picture of the effectiveness of MOFs. Besides high specific surface area, optimal density of the skeleton and moderate heat of adsorption are required for the best storage performance.
Protective effects of fruit extract of Rosa canina and quercetin on human umbilical vein endothelial cell injury induced by hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Forouzanfar Fatemeh , Tabatabaei Zeynab , Emami Seyed Ahmad , Ayati Zahra , Tayarani‐Najaran Zahra
Published: September 2023

The Nastaran plant, with the scientific name of Rosa canina, has been used since ancient times as a plant with medicinal properties. In the present study, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to examine the protective effects of R. canina fruit extract (RCFE) and its flavonoid ingredient (quercetin) against H2O2‐induced cell injury. RCFE (1.25–20 μg/mL) and quercetin (1.25–20 μM) were exposed to H2O2‐oxidizing agent (1 and 2 mM) and the protective effect was examined on HUVEC cells by Alamar Blue test. The amount of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured by using DCFDA reagent by fluorimetric method. The effects of RCFE and quercetin on cell apoptosis were studied by staining with hypotonic PI solution and flow cytometry. The amount of PARP and survivin involved in the apoptotic process was measured using the western blot analysis. The results of the Alamar Blue test showed that RCFE and quercetin could reduce the toxicity of H2O2. RCFE and quercetin were able to significantly increase cell viability against H2O2. Also, it was found that RCFE and quercetin reduced the production of ROS by H2O2. It was found that RCFE and quercetin reduced the apoptosis and sub‐G1 peak area in flow histogram after exposure of cells to H2O2. Based on western blot results, pretreatment with RCFE and quercetin could significantly increase survivin protein after exposure of cells to H2O2. Also, RCFE and quercetin could significantly reduce the amount of cleaved PARP after exposure of cells to H2O2. RCFE and its ingredient (quercetin) can be considered a promising source of phytochemicals in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Enantio‐ and Diastereoselective (Ipc)2BOTf‐Mediated Aldol Reactions of Morpholine Carboxamides
Authors: Pedzisa Lee , Monastyrskyi Andrii , Parker Camille D. , Roush William R.
Published: September 2023

Highly enantio‐ and diastereoselective (Ipc)2BOTf mediated aldol reactions of morpholine carboxamides are described. A wide variety of α‐substituted N‐acyl morpholine carboxamides were successfully employed, including α‐bromo, α‐chloro, α‐vinyl and para‐methoxyphenyl morpholine carboxamides which provided the corresponding aldol products in moderate to excellent yields, and generally with high enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities.
Patients' preferences for chronic lymphocytic leukemia treatment: The CHOICE study
Authors: Sportoletti Paolo , Laurenti Luca , Chiarenza Annalisa , Gaidano Gianluca , Albi Elisa , Mauro Francesca Romana , Trentin Livio , Vallisa Daniele , Pane Fabrizio , Cuneo Antonio , Albano Francesco , Zamprogna Giulia , Coscia Marta , Gozzetti Alessandro , Reda Gianluigi , Caira Morena , Finsinger Paola , Gualberti Giuliana , Iannella Emilia , Malgieri Simona , Molica Stefano
Published: September 2023

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) therapies differ in efficacy, side effects, route, frequency, and duration of administration. We assessed patient preferences for treatment attributes and evaluated associations with disease stage, treatment line, and socio‐demographic characteristics in a cross sectional, observational study conducted at 16 Italian hematology centers. Study visits occurred between February and July 2020; 401 adult patients with CLL (201 Watch and Wait (W&W), 200 treated) participated in a discrete choice experiment (DCE), composed of 8 choices between pairs of treatment profiles with different levels of 5 attributes of currently available CLL treatments (length of response, route and duration of administration, risk of side effects including diarrhea, infections, or organ damage). Health‐related quality of life was assessed with the EQ‐5D‐5L, EORTC QLQ‐C30 and QLQ CLL‐16. Previously treated patients had longer disease duration (7 vs. 5 years), higher prevalence of serious comorbidities (45.5% vs. 36.2%) and high‐risk molecular markers (unmutated IGHV 55.6% vs. 17.1%; TP53 mutation 15.2% vs. 4.0%). Health‐related quality of life scores were similar between groups. In the DCE, W&W patients rated “possible occurrence of infections” highest (relative importance [RI] = 36.2%), followed by “treatment and relevant duration” (RI = 28.0%) and “progression‐free survival (PFS)” (RI = 16.9%). Previously treated patients rated “treatment and relevant duration” highest (RI = 33.3%), followed by “possible occurrence of infections” (RI = 28.8%), “possible occurrence of organ damage” (RI = 19.4%), and “PFS” (RI = 9.8%). Concern over infection was rated highest overall; unexpectedly PFS was not among the most important criteria in either group, suggesting that the first COVID‐19 pandemic wave may have influenced patient preferences and concerns about CLL therapy options.
Analytical study of dual‐porosity coastal aquifer with generalized nonlinear water transfer term
Authors: Ma Kuo‐Chen , Chuang Mo‐Hsiung , Chang Ya‐Chi , Lin Ying‐Fan
Published: September 2023

This study proposes a new mathematical model for the hydraulic head distribution induced by the tidal wave in fractured coastal aquifers. The flow in the fractured aquifer is described by adopting the well‐known dual‐porosity (DP) concept. It simply describes the interaction of the flow between the fractures and matrix blocks. The past studies commonly used the lumped‐distributed approach, a first‐order mass transfer approximation, to reflect such a flow interaction. Herein, we incorporate a new generalized transfer term (GTT) into the DP model. The weighting factor in the GTT is capable of reflecting the geometrical properties of the matrix flow. The GTT can reduce to the first‐ and second‐order terms by setting the weight to zero and one, respectively. Moreover, the sensitivity analysis is used to delve into the impacts of the aquifer parameters on the flow response in the coast aquifer, and the effects of the model parameters on the head amplitude and phase shift are explored in this study. The sensitivity analysis is performed to assess the hydraulic properties of the coast aquifer in response to the hydraulic head. Overall, we believe that the present model facilitates in developing sound plans of water resources management in coastal regions.
TRAIL‐conjugated liposomes that bind natural killer cells to induce colorectal cancer cell apoptosis
Authors: Greenlee Joshua D. , Zhang Zhenjiang , Subramanian Tejas , Liu Kevin , King Michael R.
Published: September 2023

Natural killer (NK) cell functionality is a strong indicator of favorable prognosis in cancer patients, making NK cells an appealing therapeutic target to prevent lymph node dissemination. We engineered liposomes that are conjugated with anti‐CD335 antibodies for NK cell targeting, and the apoptotic ligand TRAIL to kill cancer cells. Liposomes were made using a thin film hydration method followed by extrusion to approximately 100 nm in diameter and conjugation of proteins via thiol‐maleimide click chemistry. TRAIL/anti‐CD335 liposomes successfully bound to isolated NK cells. Once piggybacked to the surface of NK cells, these “Super Natural Killer Cells” were able to more effectively kill oxaliplatin‐resistant SW620 cells and metastatic COLO205 colorectal cancer cells via TRAIL‐mediated apoptosis compared to NK cells alone. Importantly, Super NK cells were more effective under physiological levels of fluid shear stress found in the lymphatics. Liposome biodistribution after intravenous administration confirmed the sustained presence of liposomes within the spleen and tumor draining mesenteric lymph nodes for at least 4 days. These results demonstrate the enhanced apoptotic effects of NK cells armored with liposomal TRAIL against clinically relevant colorectal cancer cells, providing the groundwork for in vivo treatment studies in mouse models of colorectal cancer metastasis.
The non‐causative role of abnormal serum uric acid in intervertebral disc degeneration: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cai Yang‐Ting , Li Yong‐Xian , Wang Li‐Ren , Mo Ling , Li Ying , Zhang Shun‐Cong
Published: September 2023

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that contributes significantly to disability and healthcare costs. Serum urate concentration has been implicated in the development of various musculoskeletal conditions. While previous observational studies have suggested an association between the two conditions, it might confound the effect of serum urate concentrations on IDD. This Mendelian randomization (MR) study aimed to investigate the causal relationship between serum urate concentration and IDD.

Methods

We performed a two‐sample MR analysis using summary‐level data from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) of serum urate concentration (n = 13 585 994 European ancestry) and IDD (n = 16 380 337 European ancestry). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) significantly associated with serum urate concentration (p < 5 × 10−8) were selected as instrumental variables. The associations between genetically predicted serum urate concentration and IDD were estimated using the inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) method, with sensitivity analyses employing the weighted median, MR‐Egger, and MR‐PRESSO approaches to assess the robustness of the findings.

Results

In the primary IVW analysis, genetically predicted serum urate concentration was unrelated associated with IDD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.00, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00–1.00, p = 0.17)). The results remained consistent across the sensitivity analyses, and no significant directional pleiotropy was detected (MR‐Egger intercept: p = 0.15).

Conclusions

This MR study provides evidence that there is no causal relationship between serum urate concentration and IDD. It suggests previous observational associations may be confounded. Serum urate levels are unlikely to be an important contributor to IDD.
Postconceptual Neonatal Dating by Transmastoid Ultrasound of Transcerebellar Diameter—Comparison to Crown Rump Length Measurement
Authors: Aziz Michael M. , VanDillen Michael , Combs Abigail , Banker Hiral , Cohen Harris L.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Transcerebellar diameter (TCD) has been utilized prenatally as a tool to estimate gestational age (GA) when fetal growth aberrations are suspected. Traditionally, first trimester ultrasound (1TUS) has been the gold standard of dating a pregnancy in spontaneous pregnancies. We sought to determine if neonatal TCD measurement was as accurate as 1TUS in the estimation of postconceptual gestational age (PCGA).

Methods

A retrospective cohort from a registry of high‐quality transmastoid views of consecutive patients from July 2019 to November 2020, delivered from 24 to 34 weeks GA, and with a 1TUS were included. The reference PCGA was the sum of the GA at delivery by 1TUS and day of life. The PCGA by TCD was calculated from Chang et al for GA by TCD. Reference and experimental values were compared by correlation, agreement within 7 days, and Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

Of the 154 individual patients in the registry of high‐quality transmastoid views during the study period, 62 met inclusion and exclusion criteria. PCGA by 1TUS and TCD were highly correlated (r = 0.86, P < .001; κ = 47% agreement within 7 days of PCGA). The bias of PCGA by TCD was 4.6 days earlier than the PCGA by 1TUS (95% confidence interval of agreement: −29.2, 20).

Conclusions

PCGA estimation by neonatal transmastoid TCD was highly correlated with that of 1TUS. It generally underestimates GA by 4.6 days. This relationship warrants further investigation to determine if this method of estimating PCGA in undated gestations is generalizable.
The Importance of Tissue Doppler Imaging and M‐Mode Ultrasonography in Fetuses With Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes
Authors: Yildirim Muradiye , Oluklu Deniz , Menekse Beser Dilek , Uyan Hendem Derya , Tanacan Atakan , Sahin Dilek
Published: September 2023

Objective

To compare the cardiac functions of fetuses with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) between their control groups and investigate its relationship with perinatal outcomes.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted with 102 pregnant women. Pregnant women with PPROM were divided into two subgroups Group A, between 26 and 30 weeks, and Group B, between 30 and 34 weeks. A control group was formed by randomly including one healthy pregnant woman for each study patient. Sociodemographic, obstetric data, tissue Doppler imaging, and M‐mode imaging results were compared. The relationship between echocardiographic parameters and perinatal outcomes was also investigated.

Results

Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), S′, and ET′ of systolic cardiac parameters were shortened in both groups compared with their controls. Diastolic function indicator E′/A′, and global function indicator myocardial performance index' increased in both groups. Isovolumetric contraction time' did not change between groups. A correlation was found between myocardial performance index', and the length of neonatal intensive care unit stay in Group A and TAPSE and duration of respiratory support and length of neonatal intensive care unit stay in Group B.

Conclusions

The fetal cardiac function seems to be affected by PPROM, and these changes are associated with neonatal outcomes. Therefore, administering fetal cardiac function evaluation in pregnancies complicated by PPROM may help physicians establish more appropriate clinical management protocols in this special population.
Prospective Evaluation and Validation of the Laryngoscore and the mini‐Laryngoscore
Authors: Clarysse Camille , Meulemans Jeroen , van Lierde Charlotte , Laenen Annouschka , Delaere Pierre , Vander Poorten Vincent
Published: September 2023

Objective

The Laryngoscore was described in 2014 as a practical preoperative assessment tool to predict difficult laryngeal exposure (DLE) during transoral approaches to the larynx. In 2019 the authors proposed a version with a reduced number of variables, called the mini‐Laryngoscore. We aim to critically appraise and externally validate these two tools and if needed and possible, to optimize these tools.

Methods

103 consecutive patients who underwent a microlaryngoscopy between November 2017 and June 2020 at the Leuven University Hospitals were prospectively included and subjected to a presurgical evaluation of 15 parameters and a peroperative scoring of the anterior commissure visualization. Subsequent analysis focused on the concordance of our findings with those of Piazza et al., the discriminatory ability of the test, and the validity of the included items. We then evaluated a modified prediction tool.

Results

Of 103 patients, 18 (17.5%) had DLE. The Laryngoscore and mini‐Laryngoscore predicted this with a “good” C‐index of respectively 0.727 (95%CI: 0.608–0.846) and 0.714 (95%CI: 0.605–0.823). A newly created prediction tool including only three parameters (Interincisors gap, upper jaw dental status and previous treatments) showed a better discriminatory ability (C‐index = 0.835, 95%CI: 0.726–0.944) than the original Laryngoscore, a finding that needs further external validation.

Conclusion

The original Laryngoscore and the mini‐Laryngoscore displayed a good discriminative ability. Some parameters can be left out of the Laryngoscore without losing discrimination. An even better prediction model seems possible, using a weighted sum of selected predictor variables and by using the parameters in their continuous form.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 134:1807–1812, 2024
Long‐term cultivation drives soil carbon, nitrogen, and bacterial community changes in the black soil region of northeastern China
Authors: Liu Jing , Liu Baoyuan , Liu Honghu , Zhang Fengbao
Published: September 2023

The deteriorating soil carbon, nutrients, and microbial habitat pose a serious threat to crop production. However, the effects of long‐term cultivation with soil erosion on soil carbon, nitrogen, and bacterial communities remain poorly understood. Consequently, this study aims to explore the changes in these soil indicators in the last 110 years and their responses to soil erosion. Luvic Phaeozems in hillslope and Haplic Phaeozems in flat were sampled along 113‐ and 67‐year cultivation chronosequences. The soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), soil loss rate, the soil bacterial community, and so on were respectively determined using the Walkley–Black, the Kjeldahl, nuclide tracing method, and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing methods. The comparisons of SOC, TN, and soil bacterial community between Luvic Phaeozems and Haplic Phaeozems were used to differentiate their responses to the soil erosion intensity. The results indicated that SOC and TN decreased negatively and exponentially during long‐term cultivation and took longer to regain stability in Luvic Phaeozems than in Haplic Phaeozems (e.g., SOC: from 55.77 to 23.11 g kg−1 after 152 years vs. from 91.83 to 34.24 g kg−1 after 32 years). The bacterial community transitioned into Proteobacteria‐dominant communities and the quantity of carbon‐fixing and nitrogen‐fixing functional groups decreased. These shifts were mainly driven by the SOC and TN contents (40%) and their loss ratios (44%). In conclusion, soil erosion leads to more severe SOC and TN loss on hillslope than flat under long‐term improper cultivation, ultimately endangering soil bacterial ecological functions, which has important implications for effective soil erosion control and encouraging conservation tillage in this food‐producing region.
Mesocosm approaches to the examination of benthic–pelagic coupling, with emphasis on turbulence
Authors: Porter Elka T. , Cornwell Jeffrey C.
Published: September 2023

Benthic and pelagic processes are closely coupled in shallow‐water estuarine and marine environments and in lakes yet benthic–pelagic coupling is difficult to simulate in mesocosms. Realistic water column (WC) and bottom turbulence often are not simultaneously mimicked in mesocosm experiments, leading to artifacts and omitting direct and indirect linkages and feedbacks between the sediment and the WC. The information on benthic–pelagic coupling mesocosm studies assembled illustrates the importance of realistic physics in mesocosms. Mesocosm approaches including both WC turbulence and bottom turbulence that are appropriately designed to resemble natural conditions can provide a deeper mechanistic understanding of feedback processes associated with biogeochemical, food web, and the habitat shifts necessary for models, and will help identify cause‐and‐effect relationships. Benthic–pelagic mesocosm experiments with realistic WC and bottom turbulence may fill the large gaps in our understanding of the responses of inorganic nutrient and organic matter fluxes between benthic habitats and the WC. Future applications of such benthic–pelagic coupling mesocosm studies are outlined.
Trendbericht: Makromolekulare Chemie 2023
Authors: Göstl Robert
Published: September 2023

Der Wunsch nach einer geschlossenen Kreislaufwirtschaft befeuert die Forschung an biobasierten Polymeren und an Materialien mit maßgeschneiderten Lebenszyklen. Auch die Forschung an Energiespeichern bleibt wichtig. Ungebrochener Beliebtheit erfreuen sich zudem biomedizinische Materialien, von Polymertherapeutika bis zu Hydrogelen mit besonderer Struktur.
Funktionen eines Spurenelements
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: September 2023

Die lange vernachlässigte Biochemie der Selen‐haltigen Proteine bringt neue medizinische Erkenntnisse und Anwendungen hervor.
Analytische Chemie: Tattoopigmente in der Haut
Authors: Wolf Carina , Brungs Corinna , Karst Uwe
Published: September 2023

Tätowieren ist beliebt: Jüngsten Studien zufolge sind etwa zwölf Prozent aller Europäer tätowiert, Tendenz steigend. Die Risiken sind jedoch noch nicht vollständig untersucht. Wenn die tätowierte Haut juckt oder anschwillt, hilft eine Analyse von Hautbiopsien dabei, die Ursachen zu ermitteln.
Prozessindustrie: Fluidik spart Energie
Authors: Homburg Alexander , Reiff Ellen‐Christine
Published: September 2023

Fluidikkomponenten und ‐systeme sowie Sensoren und Regelsysteme helfen, Prozesse effizienter zu gestalten. Beispiele aus Chromatographie, Bio‐ und Pharmatechnik zeigen, dass dies für neue Anlagen ebenso gilt wie beim Modernisieren bestehender Prozesse.
Skipping a pillar does not make for strong foundations: Pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic reasoning behind the shape of dose–response relationships in oncology
Authors: Yates James W. T. , Mistry Hitesh B.
Published: September 2023

Dose–response analysis is often applied to the quantification of drug‐effect especially for slowly responding disease end points where a comparison is made across dose levels after a particular period of treatment. It has long been recognized that exposure – response is more appropriate than dose–response. However, trials necessarily are designed as dose–response experiments. Second, a wide range of functional forms are used to express relationships between dose and response. These considerations are also important for clinical development because pharmacokinetic (PK; and variability) plus pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic modeling may allow one to anticipate the shape of the dose–response curve and so the trial design. Here, we describe how the location and steepness of the dose response is determined by the PKs of the compound being tested and its exposure‐response relationship in terms of potency (location), efficacy (maximum effect) and Hill coefficient (steepness). Thus, the location (50% effective dose [ED50]) is dependent not only on the potency (half‐maximal effective concentration) but also the compound's PKs. Similarly, the steepness of the dose response is shown to be a function of the half‐life of the drug. It is also shown that the shape of relationship varies dependent on the assumed time course of the disease. This is important in the context of drug‐discovery where the in vivo potencies of compounds are compared as well as when considering an analysis of summary data (for example, model‐based meta‐analysis) for clinical decision making.
Enhanced Diffuse Reflectance of Photons in Molybdenum Back Electrode Films Achieved via Surface Texturing for Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Moosi Govindharajulu Srinivasan , Rajendran Jagadish , Piraviperumal Malar
Published: September 2023

Molybdenum (Mo) thin film is widely used as the bottom electrode in substrate‐configured thin film solar cells due to its high conductivity and reflectivity. Mo grown onto microtextured substrates increases the diffuse reflection of incident photons via scattering/multiple reflections on the corner/edges, in addition to the contribution from increased surface area. Herein, bilayer Mo is grown using direct current magnetron sputtering onto plain and textured substrates. To texture the glass substrate surface, a periodic array of cross‐linked photoresist structures (SU‐8 2000.5 & SU‐8 2005) is introduced via UV‐lithography process. Characterizations are done using X‐ray diffractometer, optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, and optical profilometer. Angle‐dependent specular reflectance, diffuse reflectance, and electrical measurements done on Mo grown on plain and textured substrates lead to a comprehensive understanding of the advantages of growing Mo films on textured substrates. The electrical resistivity of Mo grown on plain and textured substrates is of the same order, measuring 3.09 × 10−5 Ω cm, 3.25 × 10−5 Ω cm, and 3.87 × 10−5 Ω cm, respectively. A high‐diffuse reflectance of 62.7% is obtained for SU‐8 2005 textured Mo films. Investigations using COMSOL simulations support the optical reflectance analysis.