bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An optimized device‐to‐device (D2D) blockchain network for the insurance industry
Authors: Bilgehan Bülent , Sabuncu Özlem
Published: January 2023

Blockchain, a popular technology, remains the decentralized data management framework approved for use by many industries. The application to the insurance industry needs to offer mobility using the wireless network. The wireless network has many limitations to overcome. This paper focuses on such problems and introduces three levels of a solution to the problem. The first level is resolved using the edge computers as storage at the agencies and the partners. The second level of economic operation is solved by introducing a D2D network solution. The third level of high transactions over the network is considered using a two‐stage optimization method. The introduced optimization algorithms are simulated, and results are compared with a classical step‐by‐step calculation method that is not feasible under real‐time application. The optimization methods successfully determine the maximum channel rate with the interferences influencing the operation of such a system.
Tidal channel meanders serve as stepping‐stones to facilitate cordgrass landward spread by creating invasion windows
Authors: Ning Zhonghua , Cui Baoshan , Chen Cong , Xie Tian , Gao Weilun , Zhang Youzheng , Zhu Zhenchang , Shao Dongdong , Li Dongxue , Bai Junhong
Published: January 2023

Understanding the mechanisms by which the geomorphic structures affect habitat invasibility by mediating various abiotic and biotic factors is essential for predicting whether these geomorphic structures may provide spatial windows of opportunity to facilitate range‐expansion of invasive species in salt marshes. Many studies have linked geomorphic landscape features such as tidal channels to invasion by exotic plants, but the role of tidal channel meanders (i.e., convex and concave sides) in regulating the Spartina alterniflora invasion remains unclear. Here, we examined the combined effects of tidal channel meander‐mediated hydrodynamic variables, soil abiotic stresses, and propagule pressure on the colonization of Spartina in the Yellow River Delta, China, by conducting field observations and experiments. The results showed that lower hydrodynamic disturbance, bed shear stress, and higher propagule pressure triggered by eddies due to the convex structure of channel meanders facilitated Spartina seedling establishment and growth, whereas the concave side considerably inhibited the Spartina invasion. Lower soil abiotic stresses also significantly promoted the invasibility of the channel meanders by Spartina. Based on these findings, we propose a conceptual framework to illustrate the effects of the meandering geomorphology of tidal channels on the mechanisms that might allow the landward spread of Spartina and related processes. Our results demonstrate that the meandering geomorphic structures of tidal channels could act as stepping‐stones to significantly facilitate the landward invasion of Spartina along tidal channels. This implies that geomorphic characteristics of tidal channels should be integrated into invasive species control and salt marsh management strategies.
Investigating the relationship between haematological parameters and metabolic syndrome: A population‐based study
Authors: Najafzadeh Mohammad Javad , Baniasad Amir , Shahabinejad Reza , Mashrooteh Mahdieh , Najafipour Hamid , Gozashti Mohammad Hossein
Published: January 2023

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a global public health concern. Chronic inflammation plays a role in MetS; haematological inflammatory parameters can be used as MetS predicting factors.

Objective

Hereditary and environmental factors play an important role in the development of MetS. This study aimed to determine the relationship between haematological parameters and MetS in the adult population of southeastern Iran, Kerman.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was a sub‐analysis of 1033 subjects who participated in the second phase of the Kerman Coronary Artery Disease Risk Factor Study (KERCADRS). Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed according to Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) definition. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to investigate the relationship between haematological parameters with age and components of metabolic syndrome. The role of WBC, neutrophil, lymphocyte and monocyte in predicting metabolic syndrome was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

White blood cell (WBC) and its subcomponent cells count, red cell distribution width (RDW), monocyte to HDL ratio (MHR) and Neutrophil to HDL ratio (NHR) had a significant positive correlation with the severity of MetS. The cut‐off value of WBC was 6.1 (×103/μL), the sensitivity was 70%, the specificity was 52.9% for females, the cut‐off value of WBC was 6.3 (×103/μL), the sensitivity was 68.2% and the specificity was 46.7%, for males.

Conclusion

WBC and its subcomponent count, RDW, MHR and NHR parameters are valuable biomarkers for further risk appraisal of MetS in adults. These markers are helpful in early diagnoses of individuals with MetS.
Intestinal permeability evaluation in patients with chronic Chagas heart failure
Authors: Rodrigues Angela Braga , da Gama Torres Henrique Oswaldo , do Carmo Pereira Nunes Maria , de Assis Silva Gomes Juliana , Rodrigues Aline Braga , Pinho Laura Lopes Nogueira , da Costa Rocha Manoel Otavio , Botoni Fernando Antonio
Published: January 2023

Aims

We analysed intestinal permeability in patients with chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy (CCC) and evaluated its association with clinical manifestations, haemodynamic parameters measured by echocardiogram, and disease outcome. Intestinal permeability was compared between CCC patients and a group of healthy controls.

Background

Intestinal dysfunction may contribute to a more severe disease presentation with worse outcome in patients with CCC and heart failure.

Methods

Fifty patients with CCC and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of less than 55% were prospectively selected and followed for a mean period of 18 ± 8 months. A group of 27 healthy volunteers were also investigated. One patient was excluded from the analysis since he died before completing the intestinal permeability test.

Intestinal permeability was evaluated with the sugar probe drink test. It consists in the urinary recovery of previously ingested sugar probes: mannitol, a monosaccharide, and lactulose, a disaccharide.

Results

Patient's mean age was 53.4 ± 10.4 years, and 31(63%) were male. Differential urinary excretion of lactulose/mannitol ratio did not differ significantly between healthy controls and CCC patients, regardless of clinical signs of venous congestion, haemodynamic parameters, and severity of presentation and outcome.

Conclusions

The present study could not show a disturbance of the intestinal barrier in CCC patients with LVEF <55%, measured by lactulose/mannitol urinary excretion ratio. Further investigations are needed to verify if in patients with LVEF <40% intestinal permeability is increased.
Recent advances in two‐dimensional materials for hydrovoltaic energy technology
Authors: Liu Zhihang , Liu Chao , Chen Zhaotian , Huang Honglan , Liu Yifan , Xue Liang , Sun Jingwen , Wang Xin , Xiong Pan , Zhu Junwu
Published: January 2023

Hydrovoltaic energy technology that generates electricity directly from the interaction of materials with water has been regarded as a promising renewable energy harvesting method. With the advantages of high specific surface area, good conductivity, and easily tunable porous nanochannels, two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have promising potential in high‐performance hydrovoltaic electricity generation applications. Herein, this review summarizes the most recent advances of 2D materials for hydrovoltaic electricity generation, including carbon nanosheets, layered double hydroxide (LDH), and layered transition metal oxides and sulfides. Some strategies were introduced to improve the energy conversion efficiency and the output power of hydrovoltaic electricity generation devices based on 2D materials. The applications of these devices in self‐powered electronics, sensors, and low‐consumption devices are also discussed. Finally, the challenges and perspectives on this emerging technology are outlined.
Endoplasmic reticulum associated degradation is essential for maintaining the viability or function of mature myelinating cells in adults
Authors: Wu Shuangchan , Lin Wensheng
Published: January 2023

Endoplasmic reticulum associated degradation (ERAD) is responsible for recognition and degradation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the ER. Sel1L is essential for the ERAD activity of Sel1L‐Hrd1 complex, the best‐known ERAD machinery. Using a continuous Sel1L knockout mouse model (CNP/Cre; Sel1LloxP/loxP mice), our previous studies showed that Sel1L knockout in myelinating cells, oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS) and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), leads to adult‐onset myelin abnormalities in the CNS and PNS. Because Sel1L is deleted in myelinating cells of CNP/Cre; Sel1LloxP/loxP mice starting at very early stage of differentiation, it is impossible to rule out the possibility that the adult‐onset myelin abnormalities in these mice results from developmental myelination defects caused by Sel1L knockout in myelinating cells during development. Thus, using an inducible Sel1L knockout mouse model (PLP/CreERT; Sel1LloxP/loxP mice) that has normal, intact myelin and myelinating cells in the adult CNS and PNS prior to tamoxifen treatment, we sought to determine if Sel1L knockout in mature myelinating cells of adult mice leads to myelin abnormalities in the CNS and PNS. We showed that Sel1L knockout in mature myelinating cells caused ERAD impairment, ER stress and UPR activation. Interesting, Sel1L knockout in mature oligodendrocytes impaired their myelinating function by suppressing myelin protein translation, and resulted in progressive myelin thinning in the adult CNS. Conversely, Sel1L knockout in mature Schwann cells led to Schwann cell apoptosis and demyelination in the adult PNS. These findings demonstrate the essential roles of ERAD in mature myelinating cells in the adult CNS and PNS under physiological conditions.
Cultural dispersion and stock liquidity
Authors: Zhang John F.
Published: January 2023

Research Summary

This paper examines whether cultural dispersion of a multinational firm affects its stock trading in the market. The result shows that the stock liquidity negatively relates to the degree of cultural dispersion, suggesting it is costlier to trade stocks of culturally diverse firms. Among five measures of stock liquidity, Chae's (2005) turnover measure demonstrates the most consistent effect after addressing potential omitted variables and selection biases. A robustness test that extends our sample to include purely domestic firms confirms the main result of the negative effect of cultural dispersion. Furthermore, while the relation between cultural dispersion and stock liquidity may not be exactly linear, such a negative association overall holds. In addition, the influence of cultural dispersion on stock trading takes effects mainly through the agency and external information environment channels and is more pronounced for lower risk‐taking multinationals.

Managerial Summary

This result has three practical implications for investment management. First, it is important to consider the internal cultural diversity when investing multinational firms. Second, the evaluation of firm liquidity goes beyond financial fundamentals or market mechanism. When a firm increase its degree of informational complexity and unfamiliarity, it tends to decrease its attractiveness to investors. Last but not least, when investing globally, cultural differences is an important consideration. Using stock liquidity as a research platform, this study suggests that the effect of cultural difference is indeed material.
Neuroligin‐2 controls the establishment of fast GABAergic transmission in adult‐born granule cells
Authors: Groisman Ayelén I. , Aguilar‐Arredondo Andrea , Giacomini Damiana , Schinder Alejandro F.
Published: January 2023

GABAergic inhibition is critical for the precision of neuronal spiking and the homeostatic regulation of network activity in the brain. Adult neurogenesis challenges network homeostasis because new granule cells (GCs) integrate continuously in the functional dentate gyrus. While developing, adult‐born GCs undergo a transient state of enhanced excitability due to the delayed maturation of perisomatic GABAergic inhibition by parvalbumin interneurons (PV‐INs). The mechanisms underlying this delayed synaptic maturation remain unknown. We examined the morphology and function of synapses formed by PV‐INs onto new GCs over a 2‐month interval in young adult mice, and investigated the influence of the synaptic adhesion molecule neuroligin‐2 (NL2). Perisomatic appositions of PV‐IN terminals onto new GCs were conspicuous at 2 weeks and continued to grow in size to reach a plateau over the fourth week. Postsynaptic knockdown of NL2 by expression of a short‐hairpin RNA (shNL2) in new GCs resulted in smaller size of synaptic contacts, reduced area of perisomatic appositions of the vesicular GABA transporter VGAT, and the number of presynaptic active sites. GCs expressing shNL2 displayed spontaneous GABAergic responses with decreased frequency and amplitude, as well as slower kinetics compared to control GCs. In addition, postsynaptic responses evoked by optogenetic stimulation of PV‐INs exhibited slow kinetics, increased paired‐pulse ratio and coefficient of variation in GCs with NL2 knockdown, suggesting a reduction in the number of active synapses as well as in the probability of neurotransmitter release (Pr). Our results demonstrate that synapses formed by PV‐INs on adult‐born GCs continue to develop beyond the point of anatomical growth, and require NL2 for the structural and functional maturation that accompanies the conversion into fast GABAergic transmission.
Nanoparticle delivery through the BBB in central nervous system tuberculosis
Authors: Griego Anna , Scarpa Edoardo , De Matteis Valeria , Rizzello Loris
Published: January 2023

Recent advances in Nanotechnology have revolutionized the production of materials for biomedical applications. Nowadays, there is a plethora of nanomaterials with potential for use towards improvement of human health. On the other hand, very little is known about how these materials interact with biological systems, especially at the nanoscale level, mainly because of the lack of specific methods to probe these interactions. In this review, we will analytically describe the journey of nanoparticles (NPs) through the brain, starting from the very first moment upon injection. We will preliminarily provide a brief overlook of the physicochemical properties of NPs. Then, we will discuss how these NPs interact with the body compartments and biological barriers, before reaching the blood–brain barrier (BBB), the last gate guarding the brain. Particular attention will be paid to the interaction with the biomolecular, the bio‐mesoscopic, the (blood) cellular, and the tissue barriers, with a focus on the BBB. This will be framed in the context of brain infections, especially considering central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS‐TB), which is one of the most devastating forms of human mycobacterial infections. The final aim of this review is not a collection, nor a list, of current literature data, as it provides the readers with the analytical tools and guidelines for the design of effective and rational NPs for delivery in the infected brain.
Outcomes of pregnancies with preterm premature rupture of membranes occurring before 24 weeks of gestation: An 11‐year observational study
Authors: Gauthier‐Moulinier Helene , Ndour Daouda , Rabilloud Muriel , Nguyen Kim‐An
Published: January 2023

Objective

This study describes the fetal and neonatal outcomes and their predictive factors in pregnancies with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) before 24 weeks of gestation.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted using the patient database of a tertiary university hospital in Lyon, France. All of the medical data of women diagnosed with PPROM before 24 weeks of gestation from 2008 to 2018 were extracted. R software was used for descriptive and analytical statistics.

Results

The study included 78 women. Mean gestational age (GA) at PPROM was 19.6 weeks (13.1 to 23.9 weeks). Fifteen (19.2%) pregnancies were terminated, 37 (47.4%) resulted in intrauterine fetal death (IUFD), and 26 (33.3%) children were born alive at an average of 26.9 weeks of gestation. Fourteen children survived and 12 died after birth; 50% of survivors had pulmonary hypoplasia. Within 7 days after PPROM, 46% of IUFD occurred and 36% of pregnancies ended. PPROM before 20 weeks of gestation and chorioamnionitis are statistically associated with IUFD, whereas a latency period of more than 2 weeks is statistically related to live birth.

Conclusion

PPROM before 24 weeks of gestation is associated with a high rate of IUFD, preterm birth, and postpartum mortality.
Effect of wheat crop height and canopy coverage on microsprinkling hose irrigation uniformity
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Wang Wene , Wei Rong , Ling Gang , Li Hong , Hu Xiaotao
Published: January 2023

Crop shading affects irrigation uniformity and water distribution under microsprinkling hose irrigation (MHI). This study aims to ascertain how MHI distributes irrigation water under crop shading. Various crop heights and canopy coverages of wheat specimens were designed. The experiment was conducted under four working pressures (20, 24, 28 and 32 kPa). The irrigation water distribution of the MHI under crop shading was analysed under various crop heights and canopy coverages. The results showed that (1) the irrigation uniformity of MHI could reach approximately 50% while the planting row spacing of wheat was appropriate. Crop shading had little effect on irrigation performance. (2) During the jointing period, when the wheat height reached 0.4 m, intensive stems reduced the irrigation uniformity and spraying range of MHI. (3) The wheat height could reach 0.6–0.7 m in the maturing period. The uniformity was 25%–50%, which was far lower than the effect of irrigation during the jointing period. To obtain great irrigation performance and acceptable crop yield, it is important to select the proper pressure under the various crop heights and canopy coverages of wheat under MHI.
Bayesian optimization of hyperparameters from noisy marginal likelihood estimates
Authors: Gustafsson Oskar , Villani Mattias , Stockhammar Pär
Published: January 2023

Bayesian models often involve a small set of hyperparameters determined by maximizing the marginal likelihood. Bayesian optimization is an iterative method where a Gaussian process posterior of the underlying function is sequentially updated by new function evaluations. We propose a novel Bayesian optimization framework for situations where the user controls the computational effort and therefore the precision of the function evaluations. This is a common situation in econometrics where the marginal likelihood is often computed by Markov chain Monte Carlo or importance sampling methods. The new acquisition strategy gives the optimizer the option to explore the function with cheap noisy evaluations and therefore find the optimum faster. The method is applied to estimating the prior hyperparameters in two popular models on US macroeconomic time series data: the steady‐state Bayesian vector autoregressive (BVAR) and the time‐varying parameter BVAR with stochastic volatility.
Craniosynostosis in Patients With X‐Linked Hypophosphatemia: A Review
Authors: Munns Craig F , Maguire Edward P , Williams Angela , Wood Sue , Biggin Andrew
Published: January 2023

Craniosynostosis is a rare condition of skull development, manifesting during fetal and early infant development, and is usually congenital. Craniosynostosis secondary to metabolic disorders, such as X‐linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), is less common and is typically diagnosed later than congenital craniosynostosis. XLH is a rare, progressive, and lifelong hereditary phosphate‐wasting disorder characterized by loss of function of the phosphate‐regulating endopeptidase homologue, X‐linked gene, which is associated with premature fusion of cranial sutures due to abnormal phosphate metabolism (hypophosphatemia) and altered bone mineralization or elevated levels of fibroblast growth factor 23. This targeted literature review of 38 articles seeks to provide an overview of craniosynostosis in individuals with XLH. The objectives of this review are to increase awareness of the prevalence, presentation, and diagnosis of craniosynostosis in XLH; examine the spectrum of craniosynostosis severity in XLH; discuss the management of craniosynostosis in those with XLH; recognize the complications for patients with XLH; and identify what is known about the burden of craniosynostosis for individuals with XLH. The presentation of craniosynostosis in individuals with XLH tends to manifest slightly later than congenital craniosynostosis and can vary in severity and appearance, making diagnosis difficult and resulting in inconsistent clinical outcomes. Consequently, craniosynostosis in patients with XLH is an underreported and potentially underrecognized condition. There have been no studies investigating the effects of craniosynostosis on the quality of life of people with XLH. Despite a growing awareness among researchers and experienced clinicians, there are still improvements to be made in general awareness and timely diagnosis of craniosynostosis in XLH. The XLH community would benefit from further study into the prevalence of craniosynostosis, the effect of XLH medical therapy on the development of craniosynostosis, and the effects of craniosynostosis on quality of life. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Mesenchymal stromal cells ameliorate diabetes‐induced muscle atrophy through exosomes by enhancing AMPK/ULK1‐mediated autophagy
Authors: Song Jia , Liu Jidong , Cui Chen , Hu Huiqing , Zang Nan , Yang Mengmeng , Yang Jingwen , Zou Ying , Li Jinquan , Wang Lingshu , He Qin , Guo Xinghong , Zhao Ruxing , Yan Fei , Liu Fuqiang , Hou Xinguo , Sun Zheng , Chen Li
Published: January 2023

Background

Diabetes and obesity are associated with muscle atrophy that reduces life quality and lacks effective treatment. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)‐based therapy can ameliorate high fat‐diet (HFD) and immobilization (IM)‐induced muscle atrophy in mice. However, the effect of MSCs on muscle atrophy in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and the potential mechanism is unclear. Here, we evaluated the efficacy and explored molecular mechanisms of human umbilical cord MSCs (hucMSCs) and hucMSC‐derived exosomes (MSC‐EXO) on diabetes‐ and obesity‐induced muscle atrophy.

Methods

Diabetic db/db mice, mice fed with high‐fat diet (HFD), mice with hindlimb immobilization (IM), and C2C12 myotubes were used to explore the effect of hucMSCs or MSC‐EXO in alleviating muscle atrophy. Grip strength test and treadmill running were used to measure skeletal muscle strength and performance. Body composition, muscle weight, and muscle fibre cross‐sectional area (CSA) was used to evaluate muscle mass. RNA‐seq analysis of tibialis anterior (TA) muscle and Western blot analysis of muscle atrophy signalling, including MuRF1 and Atrogin 1, were performed to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Results

hucMSCs increased grip strength (P = 0.0256 in db/db mice, P = 0.012 in HFD mice, P = 0.0097 in IM mice), running endurance (P = 0.0154 in HFD mice, P = 0.0006 in IM mice), and muscle mass (P = 0.0004 in db/db mice, P = 0.0076 in HFD mice, P = 0.0144 in IM mice) in all models tested, with elevated CSA of muscle fibres (P < 0.0001 in db/db mice and HFD mice, P = 0.0088 in IM mice) and reduced Atrogin1 (P = 0.0459 in db/db mice, P = 0.0088 in HFD mice, P = 0.0016 in IM mice) and MuRF1 expression (P = 0.0004 in db/db mice, P = 0.0077 in HFD mice, P = 0.0451 in IM mice). MSC‐EXO replicated all these hucMSC‐mediated changes (P = 0.0103 for grip strength, P = 0.013 for muscle mass, P < 0.0001 for CSA of muscle fibres, P = 0.0171 for Atrogin1 expression, and P = 0.006 for MuRF1 expression). RNA‐seq revealed that hucMSCs activated the AMPK/ULK1 signalling and enhanced autophagy. Knockdown of AMPK or inhibition of autophagy with 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) diminished the beneficial anti‐atrophy effects of hucMSCs or MSC‐EXO.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells mitigate diabetes‐ and obesity‐induced muscle atrophy via enhancing AMPK/ULK1‐mediated autophagy through exosomes, with implications of applying hucMSCs or hucMSC‐derived exosomes to treat muscle atrophy.
Intraoperative ultrasound is valuable for detecting intracranial hematoma progression and decreasing mortality in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Sam Sing Soon , Lin Heng‐Fu , Tsai Yi‐Hsin , Li Chen‐Hao , Lin Che‐Kuang , Chang Wen‐Jui
Published: January 2023

Background

Our aim was to explore the clinical benefit of intraoperative ultrasound in decompressive craniectomy (DC) for traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

From January 1, 2018, through April 30, 2021, 54 patients who developed acute subdural hematoma (SDH) due to blunt injury and underwent DC with or without intraoperative ultrasound assistance were retrospectively included in our study. Logistic regression analyses were performed to compare the therapeutic efficacy in the two groups.

Results

In the ultrasound group (14 patients, 25.93%), intraoperative ultrasound was used for assisting hematoma removal and/or ventriculostomy during DC. In the control group (40 patients, 74.07%), ultrasound was not used during the operation and ventriculostomy was not performed. No statistically significant differences in age, sex, initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, blood loss, postoperative intracranial pressure (ICP), duration of hyperosmolar therapy, or Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOS‐E) score 6 months after injury were observed. No mortality was recorded in the ultrasound group. The mortality rate in the control group during hospitalization was 25% (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Intraoperative ultrasound is helpful for intracranial hematoma removal and ventriculostomy with cerebrospinal fluid drainage and decreases mortality in experienced hands. The reason for higher mortality rate in the control group might result from poor hematoma clearance rate and poor postoperative intracranial pressure control. It is a useful tool for diagnosing and assisting with treatment in cases of TBI.
Faeces‐derived extracellular vesicles participate in the onset of barrier dysfunction leading to liver diseases
Authors: Fizanne Lionel , Villard Alexandre , Benabbou Nadia , Recoquillon Sylvain , Soleti Raffaella , Delage Erwan , Wertheimer Mireille , Vidal‐Gómez Xavier , Oullier Thibauld , Chaffron Samuel , Martínez M. Carmen , Neunlist Michel , Boursier Jérôme , Andriantsitohaina Ramaroson
Published: January 2023

The role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from faeces (fEVs) and small circulating EVs (cEVs) in liver diseases such as non‐alcoholic fatty diseases (NAFLD) and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has not been demonstrated. fEVs and cEVs of healthy donors, NAFLD and NASH patients were isolated and characterized. The effects of EVs were evaluated in intestinal, endothelial, Kupffer and stellate cells. Non‐muscular myosin light chain kinase (nmMLCK) deficient mice were used in vivo. Bacterial origins of fEVs were analysed by 16s rDNA gene sequencing. fEVs and small cEVs were composed of prokaryotic and eukaryotic origins. Only NASH‐fEVs exerted deleterious effects. NASH‐fEVs increased intestinal permeability and reduced expression of tight junction proteins that were prevented by nmMLCK inhibition, increased endothelial cell permeability and inflammatory cytokines and chemokines requiring TLR4/lipopolysaccharide pathway. NASH‐fEVs and NASH‐cEVs activated profibrotic and proinflammatory proteins of hepatic stellate cells. Treatment with NASH‐fEVs evoked an increase in intestinal permeability in wild type but not in nmMLCK deficient mice. Bacterial origins of fEVs were different between NAFLD and NASH patients and 16 amplicon sequence variants were differentially abundant. We demonstrate that fEVs actively participate in barrier dysfunctions leading to liver injuries underscoring the role of nmMLCK and lipopolysaccharide carried by fEVs.
Volume‐ and quality‐controlled certification system promotes centralization of complex hepato‐pancreatic‐biliary surgery
Authors: Mise Yoshihiro , Hirakawa Shinya , Tachimori Hisateru , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Kitagawa Yuko , Komatsu Shohei , Nanashima Atsushi , Nakamura Masafumi , Endo Itaru , Saiura Akio
Published: January 2023

Background

Centralization of complex surgeries has made little progress when it only considers the minimum number of surgical procedures. We aim to assess the impact of certification system of Japanese Society of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery (JSHBPS) on centralization and surgical quality of advanced hepato‐pancreatic‐biliary (HPB) surgery.

Methods

The National Clinical Database was used to review 20 111 patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and 9666 who underwent advanced hepatectomy defined as hepatectomy of more than one section during 2019 and 2020. JSHPBS certifies hospitals based on the annual number of advanced HPB surgeries and the surgical quality. Minimum numbers of surgeries for board‐certified A and B institutions are 50 and 30, respectively. Short‐term outcomes were compared among institutions.

Results

In 2020, 69.4% (7007/10090) and 72.9% (3433/4710) of patients underwent PD and advanced hepatectomy at board‐certified institutions. In‐hospital mortality rates after PD was 0.9% at certified A institutions, 1.4% at B institutions, and 2.7% at non‐certified institutions (p < .001). The odds ratio (OR) of risk‐adjusted mortality after PD compared with non‐certified institutions was 0.39 (confidence interval [CI]: 0.30–0.50, p < .001) at certified A institutions, and 0.54 at certified B institutions (CI: 0.40–0.73, p < .001). In‐hospital mortality rates after advanced hepatectomy was 1.7% at certified A institutions, 2.3% at B institutions, and 3.2% at non‐certified institutions (p < .001). The OR of risk‐adjusted mortality after advanced hepatectomy compared with non‐certified institutions was 0.57 at certified A institutions (CI: 0.41–0.78, p < .001).

Conclusion

The volume‐ and quality‐controlled certification system of JSHBPS reduces surgical mortality after advanced HPB surgeries.
Missing catalysts of female entrepreneurship success: Evidence from an emerging economy
Authors: Hossain Md. Shahadat , Islam Md Asadul , Hosen Mosharrof , Mohd. Thas Thaker Hassanudin
Published: January 2023

There is no denying that female entrepreneurship success has been making a significant impact on the world. Females now own businesses at a rate that surpasses males, and they are also leading the way in many industries. At the same time, extant literature indicates that female entrepreneurship success is low compared to male counterparts. Concerning enriching the literature, this study aimed to explore the missing catalysts of female entrepreneurship success in a developing country perspective, Bangladesh. Using a purposive sampling strategy, the researchers used semi‐structured interviews to collect data from 14 participants, including female entrepreneurs and professors of entrepreneurs. Collected data were thematically analyzed. The study's findings are concurrent with the previous literature, while it also provides some new insights relating to the catalysts for business success among female entrepreneurs. The study has found that networking, digital leadership, institutional supports, childcare centers, healthcare systems, and secure transportation are the missing catalysts for female entrepreneurship success in Bangladesh. The study concludes with implications for females’ entrepreneurial journey with regards to theory, practice, and future directions.
Bacterial surface roughness regulates nanoparticle scavenging in seawater
Authors: Yamada Yosuke , Patel Nirav , Fukuda Hideki , Nagata Toshi , Mitarai Satoshi , Azam Farooq
Published: January 2023

Organic nanoparticles are abundant in marine environments and constitute important nutrient sources for bacteria. Bacteria have evolved cell surfaces over 3.8 billion years to efficiently utilize food particles, and they contribute to material cycling in the world's oceans. Nanoscale roughness of bacterial cell surfaces reflects outer membrane structures and extracellular polymers that potentially affect cell–particle interactions. However, the variability of surface roughness of marine bacteria has been little studied and its involvement in nanoparticle attachment to bacteria is essentially unknown. Here, for the first time, we show the surface roughness of marine bacteria, evaluated as the root mean square deviation of height (Rq), determined by atomic force microscopy of over 1000 cells of coastal and offshore bacteria in the upper ocean. The Rq varied about 10‐fold among cells (range: 1.0–13.7 nm) and decreased with increasing seawater temperature, implying that bacteria–nanoparticle interactions differ among oceanographic areas. Microcosm experiments using two Gammaproteobacteria (isolated from coastal waters) and modeled with nanoparticle (polystyrene beads and viruses) show that the Rq is a strong predictor of nanoparticle attachment to marine bacteria, that is, bacterial nanoparticle scavenging increases with Rq. This relationship can be explained by steeper peaks/valleys and larger surface area of rougher cells. Measurement of nanoscale surface topography of marine bacteria provides novel insights into bacterial strategies for resource utilization and their contribution to marine biogeochemical cycles.
Hydrogel‐Scalable Nanoslide for Switchable Optical Spatial‐Frequency Processing
Authors: Dai Chenjie , Li Zhe , Shi Yangyang , Wan Shuai , Hu Wanlin , Li Zhongyang
Published: January 2023

Spatial frequency processing is an essential technology for extracting morphological information from an optical image. Although various Fourier‐based flat optical elements have been proposed as spatial‐frequency filters to realize image processing, their transfer functions are statically fixed once fabricated, thus limiting the versatile, dynamic functionalities and practical applications. Here, a novel practical tuning strategy is demonstrated to realize switchable spatial‐frequency processing for edge‐enhanced and bright‐field imaging by employing a tunable hydrogel‐scalable nanoslide. By utilizing multilayered metallic and hydrogel stacks construction, the nanoslide directly manipulates the optical spatial frequency in the wavevector domain and exhibits opposite image processing at different wavelength channels due to the cavity‐induced wavelength‐sensitivity. More intriguingly, via controlling the ambient humidity, the angular‐dependent optical response of the nanoslide can be effectively tuned for dynamic edge‐enhanced imaging due to the hydrogel's inflation from moisture. In addition, the nanoslide is readily fabricated at a large scale and integrated into compact imaging systems, such as a biomicroscope. With the advantages of a high numerical aperture ≈0.8, polarization‐insensitive, microscopy‐compatible, and facile architecture, the proposed hydrogel‐based nanoslide can find potential applications in machine vision, real‐time image processing, biological imaging, and analog computing.
Nonlinear Conformal Transformation for In Situ IR‐Visible Detection of Orbital Angular Momentum
Authors: Liu Yuan , Chen Wei , Ming Yang , Zhang Wang , Tang Jie , Yuan Rui , Hu Wei , Lu Yan‐Qing
Published: January 2023

Linear conformal transformation provides an effective way to detect orbital angular momentum (OAM) of photons, and particularly, their coherent superposition states that are significant for OAM‐based technologies. However, these methods have limited applicability—they are applied to single or few separated wavelengths and cannot achieve nondestructive detection—although those features are attractive for practical applications. Here, the second‐harmonic spiral transformation is theoretically described and experimentally demonstrated through IR‐visible detection of OAM states from 900 to 1400 nm, with a low energy loss of ≈10−6. Remarkably, a record high optical finesse of ≈5.52 is predicted and observed, indicating that a nonlinear enhancement factor resulting from OAM conservation significantly improves separation efficiency. Additionally, this scheme allows flexibility to achieve lower energy losses or higher sensitivity by adjusting phase‐matching conditions. These results can be applicable to classical and quantum areas and promote conformal transformation into nonlinear regions.
Spin Hall Effect of Nonlinear Photons
Authors: Chen Huifeng , Liu Guanyu , Zhang Shuang , Zhong Yongchun , Yu Jianhui , Chen Zhe , Zhu Wenguo
Published: January 2023

Photonic spin Hall effect (SHE) refers to the transverse separation of spin photons in refraction and reflection phenomena. The photonic SHE has been investigated in various optical systems including air–glass interfaces, interfaces containing 2D materials, random media, etc. Here, the spin–orbit coupling (SOC) in nonlinear uniaxial crystals is investigated, and the SHE of second‐harmonic photons is demonstrated theoretically and experimentally. The generation and evolution processes of nonlinear spin photons within the crystal are visualized by the derived four wave coupling equations and wavevector‐varying Berry phases. For a focused fundamental beam, two cascaded SOCs occurring in the fundamental and second‐harmonic fields are connected by the nonlinear wave mixing near the focal position. Thus the SHE of nonlinear photons depends on the focal position, different strongly from linear photons whose SHE is independent of the focal position. Similar to the focal‐position‐dependent SHE, the focal‐position‐dependent optical vortex generations are also demonstrated for the nonlinear fields. Finally, a high‐speed modulation scheme for the SHE is proposed based on an electro‐optical polarization controller, which routes nonlinear spin photons into different destinations. These findings deepen the understanding of spin–orbit coupling in nonlinear systems and facilitate the development of spin multiplexed electrooptic devices.
Kinetic stability diagram for copper in borate buffer solution
Authors: Mao Feixiong , Zhou Yuting , Dong Chaofang , Macdonald Digby D.
Published: January 2023

The passivity of pure copper over a wide pH range has been explored using potentiodynamic and potentiostatic polarization, Mott–Schottky analysis, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The study shows that the passive film is a p‐type semiconductor. The natural logarithm of the passive current density is found to linearly increase with the film formation potential. The passive state of copper is interpreted by optimizing the point defect model (PDM) on the EIS data. Kinetic stability diagrams are derived for pure copper in borate buffer based on the rate law for passive film growth in accordance with the PDM.
2‐Hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone [Lawsone] integrated rare‐earth hybrid materials as biocompatible UV/IR filter agents
Authors: Narayanan Sheemol V. , Kumar Muthusundar , Gnanaraj Valan R. , Rajan Sruthi C. , Selvaraj Viji , Ananthakumar Solaiappan
Published: January 2023

UV filter agents are essential ingredients in cosmetics and fabrics for rendering the property of protection from harmful UV radiation. The focus of this research was on the development of biocompatible hybrid UV/IR filter agents through sol–gel processing of nano‐sized lanthanum titanate, zirconate, and phosphate‐based rare‐earth materials. 2‐Hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone (Lawsone) is an ideal candidate, owing to its biocompatibility, for treating the sol of the rare‐earth systems to produce inorganic‐organic hybrids with classical orange shades. The rare‐earth hybrids were characterized by X‐Ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, UV‐Vis, photo‐luminescence, and Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. The results of characterization indicated that the hybrids offer >90% of NIR reflectance in the wavelength region from 700 to 1100 nm. They also exhibited excellent shielding in UV‐A and UV‐B regions, thus qualifying them as cool colors with useful optical as well as heat management characteristics. The sun protection factor calculated by optical density measurements showed that the synthesized hybrids have potential applications as UV filter agents in sunscreen lotions. The cell viability analyzed by the MTT (4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)−2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay affirmed the biocompatibility of the hybrids as none of the systems was found cytotoxic. This study was devoted to exploring the beneficial properties of rare‐earth‐based hybrid systems in pharmacological applications.
Bradykinesia in Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Blinded Video Analysis of Pathology‐Proven Cases
Authors: Marsili Luca , Duque Kevin R. , Gregor Nathan , Abdelghany Elhusseini , Abanto Jesus , Duker Andrew P. , Hagen Matthew C. , Espay Alberto J. , Bologna Matteo
Published: January 2023

Background

Bradykinesia is a cardinal feature in parkinsonisms. No study has assessed the differential features of bradykinesia in patients with pathology‐proven synucleinopathies and tauopathies.

Objective

We examined whether bradykinesia features (speed, amplitude, rhythm, and sequence effect) may differ between pathology‐proven synucleinopathies and tauopathies.

Methods

Forty‐two cases who underwent autopsy were included and divided into synucleinopathies (Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies) and tauopathies (progressive supranuclear palsy). Two raters blinded to the diagnosis retrospectively scored the Movement Disorders Society‐Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III and Modified Bradykinesia Rating Scale on standardized videotaped neurological examinations. Bradykinesia scores were compared using the Mann–Whitney test and logistic regression models to adjust for disease duration.

Results

Demographic and clinical parameters were similar between synucleinopathies and tauopathies. There were no differences between speed, amplitude, rhythm, and sequence effect in synucleinopathies and tauopathies in unadjusted comparisons and adjusted models (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Clinical bradykinesia features do not distinguish the underlying neuropathology in neurodegenerative parkinsonisms. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Stability, existence, and uniqueness for solving fractional glioblastoma multiforme using a Caputo–Fabrizio derivative
Authors: Mahdy Amr M. S.
Published: January 2023

In this study, fractional order is applied to the glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and IS interaction models. The monoclonal brain tumor GBM gives rise to other tumors with varying growth rates and treatment susceptibilities once it reaches a certain density. The two populations of macrophages and activated macrophages make up the IS cells as well. Because of this, this model depicts two conversions: the transformation of a sensitive tumor cell into a resistant tumor cell and the transformation of passive macrophages into active macrophages, as well as an interaction among the tumor cell and the macrophages. The memory and nonlocalization properties of fractional derivatives make them an excellent tool for simulating the spread of epidemics. Numerous characteristics exist in the Caputo–Fabrizio fractional derivative kernel, including nonsingularity, nonlocality, and an exponential establish. For simulating disease spreading systems, it is preferred. We suggest defining the Caputo–Fabrizio fractional derivation procedure as the paradigm for the GBM disease in this work. The hypothesized fractional‐order GBM disease paradigm's stability is investigated. The hypothesized fractional‐order GBM disease paradigm's existence and originality are established. A suggested novel signal flow graph introduces the system. We have established the existence of GBM and its uniqueness. Additionally, the numerical integrations necessary for the fractional‐order glioma immune model are carried out using the predictor–corrector Adams–Bashforth–Moulton (ABM) approach for fractional‐order differential equations. These simulations demonstrate that the behavior of the model can be affected by changing the parameters for the fractional order, contact evaluation, or quarantine evaluation. The findings demonstrate how epidemiologically sound the proposed fractional model is.
ψ$$ \psi $$‐Caputo type time‐delay Langevin equations with two general fractional orders
Authors: Aydin Mustafa , Mahmudov Nazim I.
Published: January 2023

In the present paper, first, a
‐delayed Mittag–Leffler type function is introduced, which generalizes the existing delayed Mittag–Leffler type function. Second, by means of
‐delayed Mittag–Leffler type function, an exact analytical solution formula to non‐homogeneous linear delayed Langevin equations involving two distinct
‐Caputo type fractional derivatives of general orders is obtained. Moreover, existence and uniqueness, stability of solution to nonlinear delayed Langevin fractional differential equations is obtained in the weighted space. Numerical and simulated examples are shared to exemplify the theoretical findings.
A globally convergent numerical method with fourth order for computing the matrix sign
Authors: Salehi Sommayeh , Lotfi Taher
Published: January 2023

The target of this article is to propose a novel numerical scheme that can compete its corresponding solvers of the same type for computing the sign matrix. To do this, a three‐step root solver is designed to gain as much as possible of global convergence when finding the matrix sign. It is proved that the novel numerical scheme is of quartical convergence order. The stability of the scheme is discussed in detail as well. Finally, numerical tests are provided to uphold the theoretical findings.
A class of bijective Lotka–Volterra operators and its application
Authors: Mukhamedov Farrukh , Hee Pah Chin , Rosli Azizi
Published: January 2023

It is well known that any classical Lotka–Volterra (LV) operator (associated with quadratic stochastic operator) defined on the simplex is a homeomorphism. On the other hand, more general LV systems have important applications in the time evolution of conflicting species in biology. It is natural to study the bijectivity of such kind of LV operators. There is an example of a LV operator which is not injective. In this paper, we introduce a class of LV operators that are bijective. As an application of our result, the existence and uniqueness of solution of a class of Hammerstein integral equations is proved.