bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurogenic pulmonary edema caused by right insular cortex infarction
Authors: Tanaka Akane , Toriyama Kazutoshi , Takeda Yukihisa , Watanabe Yusuke , Kimura Takayuki , Yamazaki Kaoru , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Aoshiba Kazutetsu
Published: January 2023

We report a case of neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) caused by middle cerebral artery infarction involving the right insular cortex. Hyperactivity of the insular cortex, which regulates sympathetic function, can cause NPE. The NPE should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dyspneic patients with insular cortex infarction.
A Workflow for Crystallization Process Design with Simultaneous Process Optimization and Solvent Selection based on the Perturbed‐Chain Statistical Associating Fluid Theory
Authors: Mendis Nethrue Pramuditha , Wang Jiayuan , Lakerveld Richard
Published: January 2023

Solvent selection is a critical part of crystallization process design and is inherently intertwined with optimization of the operating conditions. Computer‐aided tools can greatly assist in solving these two problems simultaneously. However, the integration of predictive thermodynamic models and process optimization tools is often complicated, which may hamper industry adoption. This work presents a workflow for simultaneous solvent selection and process optimization for solution crystallization processes based on the perturbed‐chain statistical associating fluid theory (PC‐SAFT) equation of state. The workflow is provided with readily executable computational tools and aims to strike a balance between the resources needed to obtain experimental input data and good prediction performance. The use of the workflow is demonstrated through a case study involving aspirin crystallization, which shows that the workflow can provide suitable solvents and operating conditions for the crystallization process based on either cooling, antisolvent, or evaporative crystallization.
Treatment of phenolic wastewater by anaerobic fluidized bed microbial fuel cell filled with polyaniline–macroporous adsorption resin as multifunctional carrier
Authors: Yuqing Huang , Liu Xinmin , Hu Xiude , Guo Qingjie
Published: January 2023

The modified resin is used as a multifunctional biological carrier to treat phenolic wastewater (PW) in an anaerobic fluidized bed microbial fuel cell (AFB‐MFC). First, the modified resin was prepared, and the conductive polyaniline (PANI) was polymerized in situ on the surface and pores of the macroporous adsorption resin (MAR) to prepare the modified resin composite material (MAR/PANI). A series of modified resins with different mass ratios of resin and aniline were prepared. The modified resins were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), specific surface area, and pore structure analysis. Materials Studio (MS) software was used to study the internal interaction forces of PANI and MAR, and the molecular dynamics simulation method was used to analyze and calculate the cohesive energy density. The simulation results are qualitatively consistent with the experimental data. The sorption module in the MS software was used to study the adsorption behaviour of the modified resin to the organic components in the wastewater, and the adsorption mechanism was explained on the atomic scale. When the modified resin with m (MAR):m(An) = 1:0.6 was used in the AFB‐MFC, the chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency of wastewater was increased by 26.2%–88.90%, the voltage was increased by 98.46%–489.2 mV, and power density was increased by 303.28%–131.43 ± 0.17 mW/m2.
High dupilumab levels in tear fluid of atopic dermatitis patients with moderate‐to‐severe ocular surface disease
Authors: Achten Roselie , Thijs Judith , van der Wal Marlot , van Luijk Chantal , van Luin Matthijs , el Amrani Mohsin , Knol Edward , Delemarre Eveline , Jager Constance den Hartog , de Graaf Marlies , Bakker Daphne , de Boer Joke , van Wijk Femke , de Bruin‐Weller Marjolein
Published: January 2023

Background

The patho‐mechanism of ocular surface disease (OSD) in dupilumab‐treated atopic dermatitis (AD) patients remains unclear. The aim of this study is to measure dupilumab levels in tear fluid and serum, and relate these findings to the severity of OSD during dupilumab treatment in AD patients.

Methods

This prospective study included dupilumab‐treated moderate‐to‐severe AD patients who were seen by a dermatologist and an ophthalmologist before the start of dupilumab (baseline), and after 4 and 28 weeks of dupilumab treatment. Dupilumab levels in tear fluid and serum were measured by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Additionally, a pilot study was conducted to measure dupilumab on conjunctival epithelial cells using flow cytometry and LC‐MS/MS.

Results

At baseline, 89.6% (n = 43/48) of the patients had OSD, with 50.0% having moderate‐to‐severe OSD. After 28 weeks of dupilumab treatment, the median dupilumab tear fluid levels were 0.55 mg/L (IQR 0.35–1.31) and 0.29 mg/L (IQR 0.16–0.60) in patients with moderate‐to‐severe OSD and patients with no or mild OSD, respectively (p = 0.02). Dupilumab levels could be detected on conjunctival epithelial cells of 5 AD patients treated with dupilumab for 4 weeks.

Conclusion

Patients with moderate‐to‐severe OSD had higher dupilumab tear fluid levels compared to patients with no or mild OSD, indicating that dupilumab reaches the ocular surface. Dupilumab was also detected in conjunctival cell suspensions and was found to directly bind CD45‐conjunctival epithelial cells. This suggests that AD‐induced changes of the conjunctival epithelium may play a role in the development of OSD as well as increased local drug availability.
Integrative oncology in cancer care: Reaching a tipping point
Authors: Lopez Ana Maria
Published: January 2023

Preoperative relaxation techniques decrease anxiety. The addition of intraoperative acupuncture reduced severe perioperative pain associated with gynecological oncology surgery.
Positive Valent Metal Sites in Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Li Wen Jing , Lou Zhen Xin , Zhao Jia Yue , Liu Peng Fei , Yuan Hai Yang , Yang Hua Gui
Published: January 2023

The discovery of high‐performance catalysts for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) has faced an enormous challenge for years. The lack of cognition about the surface active structures or centers of catalysts in complex conditions limits the development of advanced catalysts for CO2RR. Recently, the positive valent metal sites (PVMS) are demonstrated as a kind of potential active sites, which can facilitate carbon dioxide (CO2) activation and conversation but are always unstable under reduction potentials. Many advanced technologies in theory and experiment have been utilized to understand and develop excellent catalysts with PVMS for CO2RR. Here, we present an introduction of some typical catalysts with PVMS in CO2RR and give some understanding of the activity and stability for these related catalysts.
Photochemical Synthesis of Porous Triazine‐/Heptazine‐Based Carbon Nitride Homojunction for Efficient Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Zhong Xiang , Zhu Yuxiang , Jiang Meng , Sun Qiufan , Yao Jianfeng
Published: January 2023

Porous triazine‐/heptazine‐based carbon nitride (THCN) homojunction with chloride (Cl) doping was synthesized by a simple, one‐step photochemical synthesis route for efficient visible‐light‐driven overall water splitting. The phase ratio of triazine‐based carbon nitride (TCN) and heptazine‐based carbon nitride (HCN), texture and morphology of the THCN isotype junction were finely tuned by varying ultraviolet irradiation time and washing solvents. After washing with acetonitrile, the resulting porous THCN nanosheets with 48 h irradiation contain 21 wt % TCN and 79 wt % HCN units and reveal a significantly improved photocatalytic performance with H2 and O2 production rates up to 7.9 and 4.2 μmol h−1, respectively, about 3.8 times higher than that of THCN prepared by 36 h illumination. The dual‐phase interaction, holey structure, and Cl dopants favor the exposure of active sites, extended visible‐light harvesting, accelerated charge transfer, and enhanced photoreduction ability, thereby improving photocatalytic activity.
Ion Conduction in Composite Polymer Electrolytes: Potential Electrolytes for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xu Xiaoyu , Wang Yumei , Yi Qiang , Wang Xinyu , Paredes Camacho Ramon Alberto , Kungl Hans , Eichel Ruediger A. , Lu Li , Zhang Huangwei
Published: January 2023

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are expected to become alternatives to lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) as next‐generation rechargeable batteries, owing to abundant sodium sources and low cost. However, SIBs still use liquid organic electrolytes (LOEs), which are highly flammable and have the tendency to leak. Although inorganic solid electrolytes (ISEs) and solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) have been investigated for many years, given their higher safety level, neither of them is likely to be commercialized because of the rigidity of ISEs and the low room‐temperature ionic conductivity of SPEs. During the last decade, composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs), composed of ISEs and SPEs, exhibiting both relatively high ionic conductivity and flexibility, have gained much attention and are considered as promising electrolytes. However, the ionic conductivities of CPEs are still unsatisfactory for practical application. Hence, this Review focuses on the principle of sodium ion conductors and particularly on recent investigations and development of CPEs.
Topoclimate effect on treeline elevation depends on the regional framework: A contrast between Southern Alps (New Zealand) and Apennines (Italy) forests
Authors: Rita Angelo , Saracino Antonio , Cieraad Ellen , Saulino Luigi , Zotti Maurizio , Idbella Mohamed , De Stefano Carlo , Mogavero Valentina , Allevato Emilia , Bonanomi Giuliano
Published: January 2023

Deciphering the spatial patterns of alpine treelines is critical for understanding the ecosystem processes involved in the persistence of tree species and their altitudinal limit. Treelines are thought to be controlled by temperature, and other environmental variables but they have rarely been investigated in regions with different land‐use change legacies. Here, we systematically investigated treeline elevation in the Apennines (Italy) and Southern Alps (New Zealand) with contrasting human history but similar biogeographic trajectories, intending to identify distinct drivers that affect their current elevation and highlight their respective peculiarities. Over 3622 km of Apennines, treeline elevation was assessed in 302 mountain peaks and in 294 peaks along 4504 km of Southern Alps. The major difference between the Southern Alps and Apennines treeline limit is associated with their mountain aspects. In the Southern Alps, the scarcely anthropized Nothofagus treeline elevation was higher on the warmer equator‐facing slopes than on the pole‐facing ones. Contrary to what would be expected based on temperature limitation, the elevation of Fagus sylvatica treelines in the Apennines was higher on colder, pole‐facing slopes than on human‐shaped equator‐facing, warmer mountainsides. Pervasive positive correlations were found between treeline elevation and temperature in the Southern Alps but not in the Apennines. While the position of the Fagus and Nothofagus treelines converge on similar isotherms of annual average temperature, a striking isothermal difference between the temperatures of the hottest month on which the two taxonomic groups grow exists. We conclude that actual treeline elevation reflects the ecological processes driven by a combination of local‐scale topoclimatic conditions, and human disturbance legacy. Predicting dynamic processes affecting current and future alpine treeline position requires further insight into the modulating influences that are currently understood at a regional scale.
An efficient congestion control in multimedia streaming using adaptive BRR and fuzzy butterfly optimization
Authors: Samiayya Duraimurugan , Ramasamy Jayabharathi , Gunasekar Manikandan
Published: January 2023

Recently, various video streaming platforms such as YouTube, Netflix and so forth have achieved great growth in the media industry. However, uncertain dynamic activities such as low bandwidth, packet loss and rapid fluctuations, quality, and interrupted flow are still creating several complications in multimedia streaming applications and it is necessary to provide enhanced throughput and minimum frame delivery delay. Therefore, the significant objective of this article is to attain enhanced bandwidth allocation as well as a high packet scheduling rate. In this article, an adaptive BBR technique is proposed for transmitting real‐time video with minimum transmission delay and packet loss. The adaptive BBR mainly uses the pacing gain update mechanism to maintain different flow rates and minimal data in the bottleneck queue. Also, a fuzzy butterfly optimization (FBO) with a ranking strategy is proposed to attain optimal bandwidth allocation. The FBO algorithm with ranking strategy computes the minimal bandwidth needed by the model to satisfy the service requirement of every queue in a particular round. Then, the packet scheduling is done by employing an intelligent time slice‐based round‐robin (ITSBRR) technique. The ITSBRR algorithm is employed to enhance the throughput and end‐to‐end delay by implementing the time quantum‐based scheduling mechanism. Finally, the experimental analysis is carried out for various parameters namely single path transmission delay, packet loss; frame delay is computed for various techniques to compute the efficiency of the proposed system.
Ultrasmall iron‐gallic acid coordination polymer nanodots with antioxidative neuroprotection for PET/MR imaging‐guided ischemia stroke therapy
Authors: Du Yujing , Huo Yan , Yang Qi , Han Zhihui , Hou Linqian , Cui Bixiao , Fan Kevin , Qiu Yongkang , Chen Zhao , Huang Wenpeng , Lu Jie , Cheng Liang , Cai Weibo , Kang Lei
Published: January 2023

Oxidative stress from reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a reperfusion injury factor that can lead to cell damage and death. Here, ultrasmall iron‐gallic acid coordination polymer nanodots (Fe‐GA CPNs) were developed as antioxidative neuroprotectors for ischemia stroke therapy guided by PET/MR imaging. As proven by the electron spin resonance spectrum, the ultrasmall Fe‐GA CPNs with ultrasmall size, scavenged ROS efficiently. In vitro experiments revealed that Fe‐GA CPNs could protect cell viability after being treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and displayed the effective elimination of ROS by Fe‐GA CPNs, which subsequently restores oxidation balance. When analyzing the middle cerebral artery occlusion model, the neurologic damage displayed by PET/MR imaging revealed a distinct recovery after treatment with Fe‐GA CPNs, which was proved by 2,3,5‐triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry staining indicated that Fe‐GA CPNs inhibited apoptosis through protein kinase B (Akt) restoration, whereas western blot and immunofluorescence indicated the activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) pathway following Fe‐GA CPNs application. Therefore, Fe‐GA CPNs exhibit an impressive antioxidative and neuroprotective role via redox homeostasis recovery by Akt and Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway activation, revealing its potential for clinical ischemia stroke treatment.
Effects of tree age on flavonoids and antioxidant activity in Torreya grandis nuts via integrated metabolome and transcriptome analyses
Authors: Yan Jingwei , Zeng Hao , Chen Weijie , Zheng Shan , Luo Jiali , Jiang Huifeng , Yang Baoru , Farag Mohamed A. , Lou Heqiang , Song Lili , Wu Jiasheng
Published: January 2023

The nuts of Torreya grandis are abundant in flavonoids, providing potential antioxidant activity. Considering that T. grandis can yield nuts for hundreds or thousands of years, effects of tree age on flavonoids and antioxidant activity of T. grandis nuts were targeted in this study for the first time. Results revealed that antioxidant activity and total flavonoid contents in 100‐ and 1000‐years‐old T. grandis nuts were much higher compared to 10‐years‐old T. grandis. The content of 19 flavonoids showed significant correlations with antioxidant activity in 100‐ and 1000‐years‐old trees using metabolites profiling. Transcriptome and coexpression analysis indicated that seven genes were associated with aged‐related flavonoids biosynthesis. Further analysis showed that abscisic acid and gibberellin might regulate the age‐related differential flavonoids accumulation. Our study provides a novel viewpoint that aged T. grandis is likely to present a better source of natural antioxidants and has yet to be examined in other tree models.
Trajectories of psychological distress during the COVID‐19 pandemic among community‐dwelling older adults in Quebec: A longitudinal study
Authors: Matovic Sara , Grenier Sébastien , Jauvin Florence , Gravel Catherine , Vasiliadis Helen‐Maria , Vasil Nancy , Belleville Sylvie , Rainville Pierre , Dang‐Vu Thien Thanh , Aubertin‐Leheudre Mylène , Knäuper Bärbel , Dialahy Isaora Zefania , Gouin Jean‐Philippe
Published: January 2023

Objective

The COVID‐19 pandemic and its associated public health measures may increase the risk for psychological distress among vulnerable older adults. This longitudinal study aimed to identify predictors of psychological distress trajectories among community‐dwelling older adults in Quebec, Canada.

Methods

The study spanned four time points across 13 months and three waves of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The sample included 645 community‐dwelling older adults ages 60 years and older in Quebec. Participants completed telephone‐based interviews that included the Kessler 6‐item Psychological Distress Scale (K6) to assess psychological distress at each time point as well as information on socioeconomic, medical, psychological and COVID‐19 related factors. Group‐based trajectory modelling was used to identify distinct trajectories of psychological distress across time.

Results

Three group‐based trajectories of psychological distress were identified: the resilient (50.5%), reactive (34.9%), and elevated distress groups (14.6%). Individuals with mobility issues, insomnia symptoms, COVID‐19 related acute stress, general health anxiety, increased loneliness symptoms, and those unable to use technology to see others were more likely to be in the reactive and elevated groups than the resilient group. Those with past mental health problems had uniquely increased odds of being in the reactive group compared to the resilient group. Individuals living in poverty and those who reported taking psychotropic medication had increased odds of being in the elevated distress group compared to the resilient group.

Conclusion

These findings characterized distinct trajectories of psychological distress in older adults and identified risk factors for elevated distress levels.
Reevaluating the role of the hippocampus in memory: A meta‐analysis of neurotoxic lesion studies in nonhuman primates
Authors: Waters Spencer J. , Basile Benjamin M. , Murray Elisabeth A.
Published: January 2023

The hippocampus and perirhinal cortex are both broadly implicated in memory; nevertheless, their relative contributions to visual item recognition and location memory remain disputed. Neuropsychological studies in nonhuman primates that examine memory function after selective damage to medial temporal lobe structures report various levels of memory impairment—ranging from minor deficits to profound amnesia. The discrepancies in published findings have complicated efforts to determine the exact magnitude of visual item recognition and location memory impairments following damage to the hippocampus and/or perirhinal cortex. To provide the most accurate estimate to date of the overall effect size, we use meta‐analytic techniques on data aggregated from 26 publications that assessed visual item recognition and/or location memory in nonhuman primates with and without selective neurotoxic lesions of the hippocampus or perirhinal cortex. We estimated the overall effect size, evaluated the relation between lesion extent and effect size, and investigated factors that may account for between‐study variation. Grouping studies by lesion target and testing method, separate meta‐analyses were conducted. One meta‐analysis indicated that impairments on tests of visual item recognition were larger after lesions of perirhinal cortex than after lesions of the hippocampus. A separate meta‐analysis showed that performance on tests of location memory was severely impaired by lesions of the hippocampus. For the most part, meta‐regressions indicated that greater impairment corresponds with greater lesion extent; paradoxically, however, more extensive hippocampal lesions predicted smaller impairments on tests of visual item recognition. We conclude the perirhinal cortex makes a larger contribution than the hippocampus to visual item recognition, and the hippocampus predominately contributes to spatial navigation.
Urine biomarkers in cancer detection: A systematic review of preanalytical parameters and applied methods
Authors: Jordaens Stephanie , Zwaenepoel Karen , Tjalma Wiebren , Deben Christophe , Beyers Koen , Vankerckhoven Vanessa , Pauwels Patrick , Vorsters Alex
Published: January 2023

The aim of this review was to explore the status of urine sampling as a liquid biopsy for noninvasive cancer research by reviewing used preanalytical parameters and protocols. We searched two main health sciences databases, PubMed and Web of Science. From all eligible publications (2010‐2022), information was extracted regarding: (a) study population characteristics, (b) cancer type, (c) urine preanalytics, (d) analyte class, (e) isolation method, (f) detection method, (g) comparator used, (h) biomarker type, (i) conclusion and (j) sensitivity and specificity. The search query identified 7835 records, of which 924 unique publications remained after screening the title, abstract and full text. Our analysis demonstrated that many publications did not report information about the preanalytical parameters of their urine samples, even though several other studies have shown the importance of standardization of sample handling. Interestingly, it was noted that urine is used for many cancer types and not just cancers originating from the urogenital tract. Many different types of relevant analytes have been shown to be found in urine. Additionally, future considerations and recommendations are discussed: (a) the heterogeneous nature of urine, (b) the need for standardized practice protocols and (c) the road toward the clinic. Urine is an emerging liquid biopsy with broad applicability in different analytes and several cancer types. However, standard practice protocols for sample handling and processing would help to elaborate the clinical utility of urine in cancer research, detection and disease monitoring.
Identification of Covalent Ligands – from Single Targets to Whole Proteome
Authors: Ngo Chau , Ekanayake Arunika , Zhang Chao
Published: January 2023

There has been a surge of interest and efforts in the discovery of covalent ligands for diverse proteins as tool compounds or therapeutic candidates in recent years. We present two studies that involve applications of a target‐centric approach and a ligand‐centric approach toward covalent ligand discovery. By targeting a rare cysteine residue in a receptor tyrosine kinase EphB3, we were able to rapidly identify potent inhibitors of EphB3 with extraordinary proteomic selectivity supported by activity‐based probe profiling. While characterizing an activity‐based probe intended for EphB3 using ABPP, we made a surprising discovery that its primary cellular target was a catalytic subunit of V‐ATPase through its covalent engagement with a cryptic pocket on V‐ATPase. These two approaches will be increasingly used in combination to develop covalent ligands with high potency and yield comprehensive target profiles to accelerate the rate of therapeutic discovery in the future.
Wafer‐scale patterned growth of type‐II Dirac semimetal platinum ditelluride for sensitive room‐temperature terahertz photodetection
Authors: Dong Zhuo , Yu Wenzhi , Zhang Libo , Yang Liu , Huang Luyi , Zhang Yan , Ren Zeqian , Mu Haoran , Chen Cheng , Zhang Junrong , Li Jie , Wang Lin , Zhang Kai
Published: January 2023

As the lastly unexplored electromagnetic wave, terahertz (THz) radiation has been exploited in a plenty of contexts such as fundamental research, military and civil fields. Most recently, representative two‐dimensional (2D) topological semimetal, platinum ditelluride (PtTe2) has attracted considerable research interest in THz detection due to its unique physical properties. However, to achieve practical applications, the low‐cost, large‐scale, controllable synthesis and efficient patterning of 2D materials are key requirements, which remain a challenge for PtTe2 and its photodetectors (PDs). Herein, a facile approach is developed to obtain wafer‐scale (2‐inches) patterned PtTe2 arrays using one‐step tellurium‐vapor transformation method and micro‐Nano technology. PtTe2 PD arrays are fabricated with the as‐grown PtTe2 arrays evenly distributed on a 2‐inch wafer, exhibiting high conductivity (~2.7 × 105 S m−1) and good electrical consistency. Driven by the Dirac fermions, PtTe2 PDs achieve a broadband (0.02–0.3 THz) response with a fast response speed (~4.7 μs), a high sensitivity (~47 pW Hz−1/2) and high‐resolution transmission THz‐imaging capability, which displays the potential of large‐area THz array imaging. These results are one step towards the practical applications of integrated PD arrays based on 2D materials.

image
Estradiol and High‐Dose Dihydrotestosterone Treatment Causes Changes in Cynomolgus Monkey Prostate Volume and Histology Identical to Those Caused by Testosterone Alone
Authors: KAMISCHKE AXEL , WEINBAUER GERHARD F. , SEMJONOW AXEL , LERCHL ALEXANDER , RICHTER KLAUS‐DIETER , NIESCHLAG EBERHARD
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT: To evaluate the effects of testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estradiol (E2) on the regulation of prostate growth and tissue composition, the following study was conducted in a nonhuman primate model. Fifteen adult, long‐term castrated cynomolgus monkeys were randomly assigned to receive implants filled with T (0.19 ± 0.01 g), DHT alone (0.21 ± 0.01 g), or (99%) DHT + (1%) E2 (0.21 ± 0.01 g). Prior to and at 4‐week intervals during the treatment phase of 252 days, prostate volumes (PV), body weight, ejaculate weight, hormone levels (of T, DHT, and E2), and red blood cell count were measured. Five adult, intact monkeys served as controls for prostate volume and histology. At the end of the study, histological analysis of an ultrasound‐guided prostate biopsy was performed. T levels increased significantly in the T group compared with baseline (P < 0.01) and with the DHT and DHT + E2 groups (P < 0.05). Both groups receiving DHT showed higher DHT levels than did animals in the T group (P 0.001). E2 levels in all groups increased over time (P < 0.05), although significant differences (P < 0.01) could only be detected between the DHT + E2 and the DHT group. Prostate volume in all groups increased (at baseline: T = 1.03 ± 0.12 ml, DHT = 1.08 ± 0.15 ml, DHT + E2 = 1.13 ± 0.09; at day 252: T = 5.83 ± 1.00, DHT = 4.72 ± 0.9, DHT + E2 = 5.05 ± 0.62) over time (P < 0.001), whereas no differences could be detected between the groups. Prostate biopsy could be performed successfully in 15 out of 20 monkeys. Prostate tissue evaluation between the treatment groups and the evaluated intact monkeys revealed no differences in the status of secretory epithelia, nuclear chromatin, excretory vacuoles, interstitial stroma, smooth muscles, and total functional status, whereas the prostate of a long‐term castrated monkey showed severe atrophy. Thus, both androgens fully restored prostate volume and ejaculatory function. Highly supraphysiological DHT serum levels are not associated with abnormal volumetric or histological changes of the prostate. Comparing the DHT group with the DHT + E2 group, an additional stimulatory effect of normal or slightly elevated estrogens on the prostate cannot be found in the presence of highly supraphysiological DHT levels.
The Development of Male Reproductive Organ Abnormalities After Neonatal Exposure to Tamoxifen Is Genetically Determined
Authors: NAKAI MASAAKI , UCHDDA KAZUYUKI , TEUSCHER CORY
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT: Responses of the male reproductive organs to neonatal exposures of tamoxifen (Tx) were examined in seven different strains of mice (A/J, AKR/J, BALB/cAnN, C3H/HeJ, C57BL;6J, DBA/ 2J, and FVB/N). Male mice were given daily subcutaneous injections of 2 μg Tx from postnatal day 1 to 5, and the testes, epididymides, ductus deferens, and seminal vesicles were examined at 3 months of age. At necropsy, the testes and seminal vesicles of Tx‐treated groups were significantly smaller in size than those of the control groups in all strains. Histologically, the testes of AKR/J, BALB/cAnN, and FVB/N mice showed no abnormality after neonatal treatment with Tx. In contrast, the testes of A/J, C3H/HeJ, C57BL/6J, and DBA/ 2J mice were often necrotic and highly disorganized, with severe inflammation. In the connective tissue surrounding these testes, relatively large arteries were involved in the inflammation, and the vascular lumen was occluded by the thickened tunica interna, suggesting that these testicular changes were due to infarction. Similarly, the epididymides and ductus deferens of Tx‐treated A/J, C3H/HeJ, C57BL/6J, DBA/2J, and FVB/N mice showed chronic pyogranulomatous inflammation. The epithelium of the seminal vesicles of Tx‐treated A/J, C3H/HeJ, C57BL/6J, DBA/2J, and FVB/N mice also exhibited moderate hyperplasia, with squamous metaplasia. These results indicate that neonatal exposure to Tx causes various abnormalities of the male reproductive organs in postpuberal mice, depending on the strains, and suggest that a genetic component plays a major role in determining the phenotypic variation observed.
Adjusted versus unadjusted earnings: An empirical analysis of pro forma adjustments in large German public companies
Authors: Wiek Marcel , Eichner Korbinian
Published: January 2023

This article analyzes non‐GAAP, pro forma earnings metrics of large German publicly traded companies to better understand their usage and relevance in practice. We base our analysis on a hand collected data set compiled from annual reports. Almost all companies in our data set use pro forma earnings. Typically, legal, restructuring, acquisition and accounting related costs get adjusted. EBIT, EBITDA, EPS and Net income are the most frequently adjusted earnings metrics. In almost all observed cases, pro forma earnings are higher than their underlying GAAP earnings. Our study addresses the challenge of investors to understand a company's “true” operating performance. Only when one understands the historically observable financial performance, one can make better predictions of its recurring, future financial performance. The article adds to the existing literature by analyzing in which part of the annual report pro forma earnings are typically disclosed, how transparent they are presented and reconciled, and what impact adjustments have compared to the unadjusted GAAP earnings.
Auditor tax expertise and corporate tax avoidance: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Liu Wu‐Po , Ma Mengyu , Liu Zhenfeng , So Chun Yin
Published: January 2023

The link between auditor tax expertise and corporate tax avoidance is investigated in this study. Using a sample of Taiwanese listed firms from between 2005 and 2019, it is found that companies that hire auditor tax experts engage in a higher level of tax avoidance. The results also show that this association is more pronounced among firms that have subsidiaries registered in tax havens. The findings of this study show that this positive association between auditor tax expertise and corporate tax avoidance can be mitigated through the adoption of IFRS. This study makes a contribution to existing literature by using a unique Taiwanese setting to study the tax avoidance effect of auditor tax experts and the effect of a common tax avoidance technique have on tax savings.
Ceftriaxone induces glial EAAT‐2 promotor region via NF‐kB conformational changes: An interaction analysis using HADDOCK
Authors: Rao Gaddam Narasimha , Jupudi Srikanth , Pant Pradeep , Palathoti Nagarjuna , Rajagopal Kalirajan , Govindasamy Rathika , Justin Antony
Published: January 2023

Excitotoxicity, depletion of energy metabolites, and ionic imbalance are the major factors involved in neurodegeneration mediated through excitatory amino acid transporter‐2 (EAAT‐2) dysfunction in ischemic insult. Recent studies have revealed that ceftriaxone expresses EAAT‐2 via nuclear transcription factor kappa‐B (NF‐kB) signaling pathway, stimulation of EAAT‐2 expression in the ischemic, and excitotoxic conditions that could provide potential benefits to control neurodegeneration. In this study, we have predicted the in silico model for interaction between NF‐kB and EAAT‐2 promoter region to rule out the conformational changes for the expression of EAAT‐2 protein. Using homology‐built model of NF‐kB, we identified ceftriaxone‐induced conformational changes in gene locus −272 of DNA where NF‐kB binding with EAAT‐2 promoter region through protein−DNA docking calculation. The interaction profile and conformational dynamics occurred between ceftriaxone predocked and postdocked conformations of NF‐kB with DNA employing HADDOCK 2.2 web server followed by 250 ns long all atom explicit solvent molecular dynamics simulations. Both the protein and DNA exhibited modest conformational changes with respect to HADDOCK score, energy terms (desolvation energy [Edesolv]), van der waal energy (Evdw), electrostatic energy (Eelec), restraints energy (Eair), buried surface area, root mean square deviation, RMSF, radius of gyration, total hydrogen bonds when ceftriaxone pre‐ and postdocked NF‐kB conformations were bound to DNA. Hence, the conformational changes in the C‐terminal domain could be the reason for EAAT‐2 expression through ceftriaxone specific binding pocket of −272 of DNA.
Computational analysis of geometric structures and edge‐termination effects of boron‐nitride and edge‐termination boron‐nitride nanoribbons
Authors: Wang Houng‐Wei , Lu Shih‐I , Wang Bo‐Cheng
Published: January 2023

In this work, we examined geometry, electronic structure, and edged termination effect of boron‐nitride nanoribbons (BNNRs) by employing localized Gaussian‐type orbital, periodic‐boundary condition, density functional theory (LGTO‐PBC‐DFT) calculations. Armchair (ABNNR) and zigzag (ZBNNR)‐type BNNRs are obtained and then bond lengths variation in two types of BNNRs are analyzed. We find that the B‐N bond length variation of ZBNNR is less diverse than that of ABNNR, and decreases with an increase in the ribbon width, monotonically. For those in ABNNR, it appears as an oscillatory convergence as a function of the ribbon width. The energy gap of edged termination ABNNR and ZBNNRs are also calculated using OH and SH as electron donating groups and CN‐, and Cl‐ as electron‐withdrawing groups. The introduction of SH‐ and Cl‐terminator significantly reduce the energy gap to the semiconducting region for ZBNNR, but for ABNNR. These calculated results may be exploited for nano‐electronic applications. To examine the surface behavior of the BNNRs, we also calculated their Raman shifts with the edge termination effects.
The association between exposure to community violence and somatic symptoms through bullying victimization among African American adolescents in Chicago: A developmental trauma approach
Authors: Lawrence Timothy I. , Hong Jun S. , Sopchak Kelly S. , Voisin Dexter R.
Published: January 2023

Background

The developmental trauma theory suggests that traumatic events impede the ability of individuals to form interpersonal relationships, impair cognition, affect, and increase the vulnerability of adolescents to develop psychopathology. However, few studies have examined the applicability of this theory among African American adolescents who were exposed to community violence and adverse outcomes, including bullying victimization and somatic symptoms.

Aims

Therefore, the purpose of the present study is to first test the association between exposure to community violence and somatic symptoms. Then, we explored whether bullying victimization mediated the relationship between exposure to community violence and somatic symptoms while controlling for gender differences and substance use (n = 622).

Results

Results suggest that exposure to community violence is positively associated with somatic symptoms. Moreover, the association between exposure to community violence and somatic symptoms was mediated by bullying victimization.

Discussion and Conclusion

These results were consistent with the developmental trauma theory, such that trauma could increase the vulnerability for future victimization, thus, leading to somatic symptoms. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
LIN28 expression and function in medulloblastoma
Authors: Maklad Ahmed , Sedeeq Mohammed , Wilson Richard , Heath John A. , Gueven Nuri , Azimi Iman
Published: January 2023

Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor. Current treatment modalities are not completely effective and can lead to severe neurological and cognitive adverse effects. In addition to urgently needing better treatment approaches, new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers are required to improve the therapy outcomes of MB patients. The RNA‐binding proteins, LIN28A and LIN28B, are known to regulate invasive phenotypes in many different cancer types. However, the expression and function of these proteins in MB had not been studied to date. This study identified the expression of LIN28A and LIN28B in MB patient samples and cell lines and assessed the effect of LIN28 inhibition on MB cell growth, metabolism and stemness. LIN28B expression was significantly upregulated in MB tissues compared to normal brain tissues. This upregulation, which was not observed in other brain tumors, was specific for the aggressive MB subgroups and correlated with patient survival and metastasis rates. Functionally, pharmacological inhibition of LIN28 activity concentration‐dependently reduced LIN28B expression, as well as the growth of D283 MB cells. While LIN28 inhibition did not affect the levels of intracellular ATP, it reduced the expression of the stemness marker CD133 in D283 cells and the sphere formation of CHLA‐01R cells. LIN28B, which is highly expressed in the human cerebellum during the first few months after birth, subsequently decreased with age. The results of this study highlight the potential of LIN28B as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for MB and open the possibility to utilize LIN28 as a pharmacological target to suppress MB cell growth and stemness.
Social, emotional and behavioural difficulties associated with persistent speech disorder in children: A prospective population study
Authors: Wren Yvonne , Pagnamenta Emma , Orchard Faith , Peters Tim J. , Emond Alan , Northstone Kate , Miller Laura Louise , Roulstone Susan
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Social, emotional and behavioural difficulties (SEBD) in childhood are associated with negative consequences across the life course. Children with developmental language disorder have been identified as being at risk of developing SEBD but it is unclear whether a similar risk exists for children with speech sound disorder, a condition which impacts on children's ability to make themselves understood and has been shown to be associated with poor educational outcomes.

Methods

Participants were children who attended the 8‐year‐old clinic in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (N = 7390). Children with speech sound disorder that had persisted beyond the period of typical speech acquisition (persistent speech disorder [PSD]) at age 8 were identified from recordings and transcriptions of speech samples (N = 263). Parent‐, teacher‐ and child‐reported questionnaires and interviews including the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Short Moods and Feelings Questionnaire and measures for antisocial and risk‐taking behaviour were used to provide outcome scores for SEBD at 10–14 years in a series of regression analyses.

Results

Following adjustment for biological sex, socio‐economic status and Intelligence Quotient, children with PSD at age 8 were more likely to show peer problems at age 10–11 years compared with their peers, as reported by teachers and parents. Teachers were more likely to report problems with emotionality. Children with PSD were no more likely to report symptoms of depression than their peers. No associations were observed between PSD, risk of antisocial behaviour, trying alcohol at age 10 or smoking cigarettes at age 14.

Conclusions

Children with PSD may be at risk in terms of their peer relationships. This could impact on their wellbeing and, while not observed at this age, may lead to depressive symptoms in older childhood and adolescence. There is also the potential that these symptoms may impact on educational outcomes.
Clinical, histological, immunohistochemical, and biomolecular analysis of hyaluronic acid in early wound healing of human gingival tissues: A randomized, split‐mouth trial
Authors: Pilloni Andrea , Marini Lorenzo , Gagliano Nicoletta , Canciani Elena , Dellavia Claudia , Cornaghi Laura Brigida , Costa Ezio , Rojas Mariana A.
Published: January 2023

Background

Hyaluronic acid (HA) exerts a fundamental role in tissue repair. In vitro and animal studies demonstrated its ability to enhance wound healing. Nevertheless, in vivo human studies evaluating mechanisms involved in oral soft tissue repair are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vivo effect of HA on early wound healing of human gingival (G) tissues.

Methods

In the present randomized, split‐mouth, double‐blind, clinical trial, G biopsies were obtained in eight patients 24 h post‐surgery after HA application (HA group) and compared with those obtained from the same patients without HA application (no treatment; NT group). Clinical response was evaluated through the Early Wound Healing Score (EHS). Microvascular density (MVD), collagen content and cellular proliferation were evaluated through sirius red and Masson trichrome staining, and Ki‐67 immunohistochemistry, respectively. To assess collagen turnover, MMP‐1, MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TGF‐β1 protein levels and LOX, MMP1, TIMP1, TGFB1 gene expression were analyzed by western blot and real time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Twenty‐four hours after surgery, the EHS was significantly higher in the HA group. MVD, collagen content, and cell proliferation were not affected. LOX mRNA, MMP‐1 protein, and TIMP1 gene expression were significantly upregulated in the HA compared to the NT group.

Conclusions

The additional use of 0.8% HA gel does not modify new blood vessel growth in the early phase of gingival wound healing. Concerning the secondary outcomes, HA seems to enhance extracellular matrix remodeling and collagen maturation, which could drive early wound healing of G tissues to improve clinical parameters.
Influence of soaking and solvent extraction for deodorization of texturized pea protein isolate on the formulation and properties of hybrid meat patties
Authors: Flores Mónica , Hernán Aina , Salvador Ana , Belloch Carmela
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Hybrid batters constitute the base for the processing of cooked and dry meat analogues. The use of texturized plant proteins in their formulation is a key strategy to reduce the consumption of animal proteins, although off‐flavors present in these plant proteins often cause sensory rejection. The aim was to study the effect of a deodorization process of pea protein, for their use in hybrid meat batters at different percentages of substitution.

RESULTS

Hybrid patties with higher percentages of pea protein showed higher values of yellowness, pH, and water activity, whereas hardness was reduced. Soaking treatment with ethanol for deodorization of the texturized pea protein increased humidity and pH in all patties but reduced the textural properties (hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, and chewiness). The addition of oat flour improved the patty texture at higher percentages of pea protein, but in soaked deodorized patty formulations it affected volatile retention. Volatile compounds related to off‐flavors (aldehydes, alcohols, acid compounds, ketones, and pyrazines) appeared significantly increased as the pea percentage increased, although these were efficiently removed by the soaking deodorizing process applied.

CONCLUSION

Soaking of the texturized pea protein with ethanol is an effective strategy to reduce off‐flavors in hybrid meat patties. However, it produces changes in the textural characteristics by the solubilization of the proteins of the texturized pea, reducing the availability to form a network and affecting volatile retention. The formulation of hybrid batter should be controlled in all sensory aspects for the processing of cooked and dry cured meat product analogues. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Hot‐air‐assisted radio frequency blanching of broccoli: heating uniformity, physicochemical parameters, bioactive compounds, and microstructure
Authors: Qing Shuting , Long Yangyang , Wu Yiwen , Shu Shumin , Zhang Fei , Zhang Yan , Yue Jin
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Vegetables are often blanched before drying. The hot‐water blanching (HWB) of broccoli reduces quality and is environmentally harmful. In this work, hot‐air‐assisted radio frequency heating blanching (HA‐RFB) of broccoli was developed for use before further drying processes. Blanching sufficiency, heating uniformity, and heating rate during HA‐RFB were investigated to improve the product's physicochemical properties and texture. Suitable heating conditions were achieved when HA‐RFB was applied with hot air at 70 °C, with an electrode gap of 10.7 cm, using a cylindrical container for the broccoli.

RESULTS

Under these conditions, the relative peroxidase activity in broccoli decreased to 3.26% within 117 s, with 13.45% of weight loss. In comparison with HWB broccoli, the products blanched by HA‐RFB preserved their texture, bioactive compounds, and microstructure better. The ascorbic acid, sulforaphane, and total glucosinolate content in HA‐RFB products were 251.1%, 131.9% and 36.7% higher than those in HWB broccoli, and HA‐RFB treatment led to a greater weight loss (13.45 ± 0.50%) than HWB (8.70 ± 1.70%), which is very helpful for the subsequent drying process.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that HA‐RFB could be a promising substitute for HWB to blanch broccoli and other flower vegetables, especially as a pretreatment in the drying process. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.