bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reprotoxicity induced by acute exposure to aqueous tuber extract of Peruvian Maca (Lepidium meyeniiWalp.) inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Pilissão Luiz Eduardo Ben , Rodrigues Cristiane Freitas , Porto Douglas , Brabo Gabriela Rossi , Tassinari da Silva Andressa , Puntel Robson Luiz , Paim Clésio Soldatelli , Denardin Cristiane Casagrande , Ávila Daiana Silva
Published: February 2023

Maca (Lepidium meyeniiWalp.) has been used in folk medicine to treat fertility disturbances, a claim that has been evidenced in some studies. However, the clinical trials validating this use have shown paradoxical findings and then maca safety is not well known. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms by which maca affects the reproductive system using an in vivo model, the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans. Tuber maca powder, obtained from local commerce, was used to prepare the aqueous extract. Worms were acutely exposed to maca extracts (40, 120, 240, and 330 μg/μl), and 48 h after treatments, physiological and biochemical assays were conducted. Maca extract caused a significant decrease in total number of eggs and in the number of eggs per worm. These effects were associated to increased lipid peroxidation, reduced triacylglycerol levels, and also impairedvit‐2(vitellogenin) expression, besides increase in the number of apoptotic germline cells. We have found quantifiable levels of alkaloids in this maca extract, which presence could be related to this toxicity. Collectively, our data suggest that maca extract exposure causes reproductive toxicity to worms that could be, at least in part, associated to both an increase in apoptosis of germline cells and also to a decrease in vitellogenin expression, needed for egg yolk production and, consequently, successful reproduction.
Modeling VI and VDRL feedback functions: Searching normative rules through computational simulation
Authors: Silveira Paulo Sergio Panse , de Oliveira Siqueira José , Bernardy João Lucas , Santiago Jessica , Meneses Thiago Cersosimo , Portela Bianca Sanches , Benvenuti Marcelo Frota
Published: February 2023

We present the mathematical description of feedback functions of variable interval and variable differential reinforcement of low rates as functions of schedule size only. These results were obtained using an R script named Beak, which was built to simulate rates of behavior interacting with simple schedules of reinforcement. Using Beak, we have simulated data that allow an assessment of different reinforcement feedback functions. This was made with unparalleled precision, as simulations provide huge samples of data and, more importantly, simulated behavior is not changed by the reinforcement it produces. Therefore, we can vary response rates systematically. We've compared different reinforcement feedback functions for random interval schedules, using the following criteria: meaning, precision, parsimony, and generality. Our results indicate that the best feedback function for the random interval schedule was published by Baum (1981). We also propose that the model used by Killeen (1975) is a viable feedback function for the random differential reinforcement of low rates schedule. We argue that Beak paves the way for greater understanding of schedules of reinforcement, addressing still open questions about quantitative features of simple schedules. Also, Beak could guide future experiments that use schedules as theoretical and methodological tools.
Something to chat about: An analysis of genetic counseling via asynchronous messaging following direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing
Authors: Koerner Cari , Wetzel Heather , Klass Andrie , Doyle Lauren E. , Mills Rachel
Published: February 2023

Advances in technology, decreasing cost of genetic testing, and growing public interest in genetics marked by an increased uptake of genetic testing, particularly direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing (DTC‐GT), have led to an overwhelming demand for genetic counseling services. As such, various alternative service delivery models have been proposed to increase access to genetic counseling. Some service delivery models, such as asynchronous messaging, remain unexplored in the genetic counseling literature. The purpose of this study was to assess communication during genetic counseling for DTC‐GT through asynchronous messaging. A thematic analysis was conducted on 34 de‐identified chat transcripts between genetic counselors and clients who underwent DTC‐GT. Six categories of communication were identified and were grouped based on communication sources from either the client or the genetic counselor. Categories observed in client communication were motivations for seeking DTC testing and/or genetic counseling services, questions posed to the genetic counselor, responses provided during the session, and psychosocial aspects of the session related to the clients' mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Categories of communication that emerged from the genetic counselors' communications were educational aspects of the session and counseling strategies to address concerns that are not related to educational or informational needs. Most clients had specific questions about variants detected or specific conditions. Many clients asked about appropriate subsequent steps related to additional testing or medical management. Genetic counselors discussed the limitations of DTC‐GT and recommendations for clinical grade testing in almost all chat transcripts. In several chats, the genetic counselor provided advice to the client related to minimizing time sorting through likely benign results and refraining from altering medical management. Results suggest that genetic counselors are able to provide genetic information to clients and respond to their mental and emotional needs through asynchronous chat following DTC‐GT. Findings from this study provide initial insight into a unique genetic counseling delivery model and reveal the informational and counseling needs of clients following DTC‐GT.
Examining the influence of inflammatory bowel disease medications on sleep quality
Authors: Barnes Alex , Spizzo Paul , Bampton Peter , Andrews Jane M , Fraser Robert J , Mukherjee Sutapa , Mountifield Réme
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can disrupt sleep, leading to poor sleep quality. This may in part be due to the symptoms of IBD and the influence of pro‐inflammatory cytokines on sleep. This study aimed to investigate the potential influence of IBD medications on sleep quality.

Methods

An online survey of adults with IBD was conducted, which included measures of sleep quality, IBD activity, anxiety, depression, and physical activity. Logistic regression was used to investigate possible associations between IBD medications (corticosteroids, immunomodulators, biologics, aminosalicyate) and outcome of poor sleep. A generalized linear model was built for outcome of sleep quality score.

Results

There were 544 participants included in the final analysis, median age of 42, and 61% with Crohn's disease. Increased odds of poor sleep were seen in those taking opioids, medications for anxiety or depression, corticosteroids, vitamin D, methotrexate, and infliximab. A multivariate model was built incorporating demographic and IBD variables with opioids present in the final model and associated with increased odds of poor sleep. This was in addition to medications for sleep, depression, anxiety, IBD activity, and body weight. In a multivariate generalized linear model, opioids and methotrexate were associated with worse sleep quality scores.

Conclusions

Opioids were associated with increased odds of poor sleep independent of other factors. This provides further support for avoiding these medications in people with IBD. Infliximab was associated with increased body weight and consequently increased odds of poor sleep.
The role of local treatment including pancreatectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients with isolated synchronous liver metastasis: Propensity score‐matched analyses
Authors: Yun Won‐Gun , Han Youngmin , Lee Mirang , Cho Young Jae , Jung Hye‐Sol , Thomas Alexander S. , Kluger Michael D. , Kwon Wooil , Jang Jin‐Young
Published: February 2023

Background

In an era of more effective chemotherapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the paradigm of local treatment is changing. However, the efficacy of local treatment in patients with isolated liver metastasis remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of pancreatectomy ± local treatment for metastasis (cytoreductive surgery) in PDAC patients with isolated synchronous liver metastasis.

Methods

In total, 239 patients with isolated liver metastasis were extracted from Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH). For comparison, another 12 637 patients were extracted from the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Propensity score matching was performed to minimize confounding in both cohorts. Survival analyses stratified by the treatment delivered were performed using Kaplan–Meier estimates and log‐rank tests.

Results

In the SNUH cohort, the median (interquartile range) survival was 20.5 (13.0–42.0) months for patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery plus chemotherapy versus 12.0 (10.0–18.0) months for those who received chemotherapy alone (P < .001). With the NCDB cohort, the median (interquartile range) survival was 15.6 (8.9–31.2) months for patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery plus chemotherapy versus 7.4 (3.4–13.2) months for those who received chemotherapy alone (P < .001).

Conclusion

Patients with isolated synchronous liver metastasis should be considered for cytoreductive surgery in addition to effective chemotherapy.
DeepSWI: Using Deep Learning to Enhance Susceptibility Contrast on T2*‐Weighted MRI
Authors: Genc Ozan , Morrison Melanie A. , Villanueva‐Meyer Javier E. , Burns Brian , Hess Christopher P. , Banerjee Suchandrima , Lupo Janine M.
Published: February 2023

Background

Although susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) is the gold standard for visualizing cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) in the brain, the required phase data are not always available clinically. Having a postprocessing tool for generating SWI contrast from T2*‐weighted magnitude images is therefore advantageous.

Purpose

To create synthetic SWI images from clinical T2*‐weighted magnitude images using deep learning and evaluate the resulting images in terms of similarity to conventional SWI images and ability to detect radiation‐associated CMBs.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 145 adults (87 males/58 females; 43.9 years old) with radiation‐associated CMBs were used to train (16,093 patches/121 patients), validate (484 patches/4 patients), and test (2420 patches/20 patients) our networks.

Field Strength/Sequence

3D T2*‐weighted, gradient‐echo acquired at 3 T.

Assessment

Structural similarity index (SSIM), peak signal‐to‐noise‐ratio (PSNR), normalized mean‐squared‐error (nMSE), CMB counts, and line profiles were compared among magnitude, original SWI, and synthetic SWI images. Three blinded raters (J.E.V.M., M.A.M., B.B. with 8‐, 6‐, and 4‐years of experience, respectively) independently rated and classified test‐set images.

Statistical Tests

Kruskall–Wallis and Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests were used to compare SSIM, PSNR, nMSE, and CMB counts among magnitude, original SWI, and predicted synthetic SWI images. Intraclass correlation assessed interrater variability. P values <0.005 were considered statistically significant.

Results

SSIM values of the predicted vs. original SWI (0.972, 0.995, 0.9864) were statistically significantly higher than that of the magnitude vs. original SWI (0.970, 0.994, 0.9861) for whole brain, vascular structures, and brain tissue regions, respectively; 67% (19/28) CMBs detected on original SWI images were also detected on the predicted SWI, whereas only 10 (36%) were detected on magnitude images. Overall image quality was similar between the synthetic and original SWI images, with less artifacts on the former.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that deep learning can increase the susceptibility contrast present in neurovasculature and CMBs on T2*‐weighted magnitude images, without residual susceptibility‐induced artifacts. This may be useful for more accurately estimating CMB burden from magnitude images alone.

Evidence Level

3.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Supplementary effect of whey components on the monascin productivity of Monascus sp.
Authors: Huang Qingyun , Miyaki Nodoka , Li Zongfei , Takahashi Yutaroh , Ishizuka Satoshi , Hayakawa Toru , Wakamatsu Jun‐ichi , Kumura Haruto
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Monascus sp. has been used in fermented foods for centuries. It can synthesize yellow, red, and orange pigments as secondary metabolites. Here, we focused on yellow pigment monascin, responsible for anti‐inflammation and antidiabetic effects, and investigated whether whey could be a suitable substrate with or without rice powder for monascin production using M. purpureus AHU 9085, M. pilosus NBRC 4520 and M. ruber NBRC 32318.

RESULTS

The growth and monascin production of the three Monascus strains were dependent on three liquid media consisting of whey and/or rice. All strains showed the best growth in a rice and whey mixed medium, in which M. ruber NBRC 32318 exhibited the highest total monascin production. Subsequent investigation of the effects of whey components indicated that a mineral cocktail in whey was particularly effective in stimulating the monascin production efficiency of M. ruber NBRC 32318. However, this recipe exhibited less stimulation, or even inhibition, for M. pilosus NBRC 4520 and M. purpureus AHU 9085, respectively. In terms of total monascin production, rice with whey provided the highest amount due to growth promotion along with relatively high production efficiency.

CONCLUSION

The effect of whey on growth and monascin production was strongly dependent on the Monascus strains. Even a mineral cocktail in whey could regulate monascin productivity in a strain‐specific manner. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanism behind the diverse responses by the minerals in the production of monascin from Monascus. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Analysis of the Quality of Parotidectomy Videos on YouTube Using the IVORY‐Grading‐System
Authors: Mayer Marcel , Isik Tarik B. , Nachtsheim Lisa , Wolber Philipp , Hansen Kevin K. , Grosheva Maria , Klussmann Jens P. , Shabli Sami
Published: February 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality and the educational content of YouTube videos showing parotidectomy.

Methods

We searched for videos displaying parotidectomy on YouTube. To rate parotidectomy videos, we introduced the “Instructional Videos in Otorhinolaryngology by YO‐IFOS (IVORY)‐grading‐system (GS)” derived from the IVORY Guidelines, which pose established consensus recommendations for the production of educational surgical videos in otolaryngology. The videos were rated using the IVORY‐GS, and the total score was tested for statistical association with views, likes, likes/dislikes‐ratio, age, and length of the videos for validation of the IVORY‐GS.

Results

Overall, 50 parotidectomy videos were identified. Sixty‐eight (68%) of the videos showed a superficial parotidectomy. The mean IVORY‐GS total score was 24.9 (out of a maximum of 44 points). Video education quality was rated as moderate in 22% and high in 4%. There was a statistically significant correlation between the total score and the number of views (p = 0.03), the total score and the number of likes (p < 0.01), and the total score and the likes/dislikes ratio (p < 0.01). A higher total score was a significant predictor of more likes (p = 0.01) and a higher likes/dislikes ratio (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our modification of the IVORY Guidelines is otolaryngology‐specific, suitable, and recommended to evaluate parotidectomy videos. To date, most videos are of poor educational quality. Future efforts in otolaryngology surgical video education could focus on the establishment of an online video platform.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 133:2631–2637, 2023
Numerical simulation model of reciprocating rod seal systems with axial wear texture on rod surface
Authors: Xiang Chong , Guo Fei , Jia Xiaohong , Wang Yuming
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a simulation model of reciprocating rod seal systems when there is axial texture on the rod surface due to wear is studied. The model includes macroscopic solid mechanics analysis, microscopic contact mechanics analysis and fluid mechanics analysis, and on this basis, the change of surface pressure when the sealing ring fall into a texture is calculated by the micro‐deformation mechanics analysis of the seal surface. Then, the stiffness matrix method is used to find the film thickness when the three pressures in the sealing area are in equilibrium, completing the fluid–solid coupling calculation. Combined with the above simulation process, the performance parameters of the sealing system such as leakage and friction can be obtained. Results show that axial texture will degrade sealing performance, which increases leakage and friction. The simulation results can quantitative characterise the influence of rod wear on sealing performance and provide some theoretical basis for the study of seal failure mechanism and prediction of seal life.
The impact of strategic knowledge disclosure on enterprise innovation performance
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Xu , Yang Youde
Published: February 2023

Knowledge is the key factor to promote the development of enterprise innovation ability. Strategic knowledge disclosure is an important strategic means for enterprises to acquire external knowledge resources through active disclosure of knowledge. However, under the dual effects of external environmental factors and corporate factors, the impact of strategic knowledge disclosure on corporate innovation performance is still in a “black box” state. Therefore, based on the dual factors of industry competition intensity and enterprise absorptive capacity, this paper selects 158 listed companies in knowledge‐intensive industries as the research object, and uses the fixed effect model to empirically test the impact of strategic knowledge disclosure on enterprise innovation performance. It is found that strategic knowledge disclosure significantly promotes enterprise innovation performance, industry competition intensity negatively regulates the relationship between strategic knowledge disclosure and enterprise innovation performance, and enterprise absorptive capacity positively regulates the relationship between strategic knowledge disclosure and enterprise innovation performance. This paper is helpful to provide practical basis for the implementation of strategic knowledge disclosure and the improvement of enterprise innovation ability under the integrated perspective of external environmental factors and internal factors.
Technical note: MAMBA—Multi‐pAradigM voxel‐Based Analysis: A computational cookbot
Authors: Palma Giuseppe , Cella Laura , Monti Serena
Published: February 2023

Background

Voxel‐Based (VB) analysis embraces a multifaceted ensemble of sophisticated techniques, lying at the boundary between image processing and statistical modeling, that allow for a frequentist inference of pathophysiological properties anchored to an anatomical reference. VB methods has been widely adopted in neuroimaging studies and, more recently, they are gaining momentum in radiation oncology research. However, the price for the power of VB analysis is the complexity of the underlying mathematics and algorithms.

Purpose

In this paper, we present the Multi‐pAradigM voxel‐Based Analysis (MAMBA) toolbox, which is intended for a flexible application of VB analysis in a wide variety of scenarios in medical imaging and radiation oncology.

Methods

The MAMBA toolbox is implemented in Matlab. It provides open‐source functions to compute VB statistical models of the input data, according to a great variety of regression schemes, and to derive VB maps of the observed significance level, performing a non‐parametric permutation inference. The toolbox allows for including VB and global outcomes, as well as an arbitrary amount of VB and global Explanatory Variables (EVs). In addition, the Matlab Parallel Computing Toolbox is exploited to take advantage of the perfect parallelizability of most workloads.

Results

The use of MAMBA was demonstrated by means of several realistic examples on a synthetic dataset mimicking a radiation oncology scenario.

Conclusion

MAMBA is an open‐source toolbox, freely available for academic and non‐commercial purposes. It is designed to make state‐of‐the‐art VB analysis accessible to research scientists without the programming resources needed to build from scratch their own software solutions. At the same time, the source code is handed out for more experienced users to complement their own tools, also customizing user‐defined models. MAMBA guarantees high generality and flexibility in the design of the statistical models, significantly expanding on the features of available free tools for VB analysis. The presented toolbox aims at increasing the reach of VB studies as well as the sharing of research results.
The Duke Myasthenia Gravis Clinic Registry: II. Analysis of outcomes
Authors: Sanders Donald B. , Lutz Michael W. , Raja Shruti M. , Juel Vern C. , Guptill Jeffrey T. , Hobson‐Webb Lisa D. , Massey Janice M.
Published: February 2023

Introduction/Aims

The Duke Myasthenia Gravis (MG) Clinic Registry contains comprehensive physician‐derived data on patients with MG seen in the Duke MG Clinic since 1980. The aim of this study was to report outcomes in patients seen in the clinic and treated according to the International Consensus Guidance statements.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients initially seen after 2000 and followed for at least 2 years in the clinic. Treatment goal (TG) was defined as achieving MGFA post‐intervention status of “minimal manifestations” or better; PIS was determined by the treating neurologist. Time‐to‐event analysis, including Cox proportional hazards modeling, was performed to assess the effect of sex, acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR‐Ab) status, age at disease onset, distribution (ocular vs generalized), thymectomy, and thymoma on the time to achieve TG.

Results

Among the 367 cohort patients, 72% achieved TG (median time less than 2 years). A greater proportion of patients with AChR‐Abs and thymectomy achieved TG and they did so sooner than patients without these antibodies or thymectomy. Otherwise, there were no significant differences in these findings within the tested subgroups. The disease duration at the first Duke Clinic visit was shorter in patients who achieved TG than in those who did not.

Discussion

These results demonstrate outcomes that can be achieved in patients with MG treated according to the current Consensus Guidance statements. Among other things, they can be used to determine the added value and potential role of new treatment modalities developed since 2018.
Improved instructional practices improve student success on Certified Crop Adviser exams
Authors: Lindsey Alexander J. , Barker David J.
Published: February 2023

In spring 2016, a course at Ohio State University (OSU) was introduced to teach advanced agronomic concepts and included the option to prepare students for the Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) exams offered by the American Society of Agronomy. From 2019 to 2021, revisions in instructional methods were implemented that introduced the use of pretests (in addition to posttests given at the end of instructional periods) and focused problem‐solving within a teaching unit towards the end of the semester. Improvement in course exam performance for each period was measured, and student performance (SP) on the CCA exams relative to the general population was determined. Student course exam scores increased marginally (3%) from 2019–2021 compared to 2016–2018, though gains were not significant (p > 0.5). SP from 2016 to 2018 (n = 27) was 1%–5% greater than the general population for the international CCA exam (n = 3978) but was equal to or 1.5% below the general population for the local CCA exam (n = 784). SP from 2019 to 2021 (n = 21) was 7.8%–16.4% greater for all categories for both the international (n = 2330) and local (n = 419) exam general populations. Student passing rates on the international exam went from 25.3% to 52.8% greater than the general population from 2016–2018 to 2019–2021, respectively, and student passing rate for the local exam increased from 55.7% less than the general population in 2016–2018 to 26.7% greater than the general population in 2019–2021. These results suggest the modification of course instruction coincided with SP gains and may have contributed to improved performance of the student population compared to the general population.
Reconciling diverse viewpoints within systematic conservation planning
Authors: Cunningham Charles A. , Crick Humphrey Q. P. , Morecroft Mike D. , Thomas Chris D. , Beale Colin M.
Published: February 2023

Conservation encompasses numerous alternative viewpoints on what to value (features such as biodiversity, ecosystem services or socio‐economic benefits) and how to convert these values into conservation policies that deliver for nature and people. Reconciling these differing values and viewpoints in policy development and implementation is a perennial challenge.

Balancing differing stakeholder viewpoints within a single conservation plan risks some viewpoints overshadowing others. This can occur as some dominant viewpoints may lead to more marginal views being suppressed, and also through social biases during the planning process.

Here we develop four separate ‘caricature’ conservation viewpoints, and spatially quantify each of them in order to test different approaches to equitable reconciliation. Each viewpoint prioritises different locations, dependent on the extent to which they deliver a variety of different biodiversity, well‐being and economic goals.

We then show how these different viewpoints can be reconciled using numeric methods. We find that a pluralist approach, which accounts for the spatial similarities and differences between viewpoints, is able to deliver equitably for multiple conservation features. This pluralist approach provides a coherent spatial conservation strategy with the capacity to satisfy advocates of quite divergent approaches to conservation.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
A high prevalence of neutrophil‐specific antibodies in ELANE‐mutated severe congenital neutropenia
Authors: Dobrewa Weronika , Madzio Joanna , Babol‐Pokora Katarzyna , Lopacz Patrycja , Gierszon Agnieszka , Guz Katarzyna , Orzinska Agnieszka , Uhrynowska Malgorzata , Jasinska Aleksandra , Zdunek Maciej , Mlynarski Wojciech , Janczar Szymon
Published: February 2023

An assay for neutrophil‐specific antibodies is frequently used in the workup of chronic severe neutropenia and is suggestive of autoimmune, or sporadically alloimmune neutropenia, rather than severe congenital neutropenia (SCN). We analyzed a neutropenia consortium database for the outcomes of antibody testing initiated before receiving genetic diagnosis in Polish SCN cohort. Test results, performed in a single reference laboratory, were available for 14 patients with ELANE‐mutated SCN or cyclic neutropenia, and were frequently positive (36%). We note that the trigger for genetic studies in severe neutropenia should not be affected by antibody‐positivity and should be clinically driven.
Response of extreme environmental aging on the novel Moringa stenopetala husk fiber/epoxy composites: Understanding the characteristics and thermokinetic behavior
Authors: Mishra Kajal , Sinha Shishir
Published: February 2023

The increasing use of composite components in various engineering disciplines necessitates detailed comprehension of their operation. When subjected to adverse environmental circumstances, such as variable humid surroundings and UV radiations, the structural and mechanical characteristics of the composites can deteriorate. Additionally, using these composite materials for structural applications such as rooftop buildings or household properties may reduce lifespan. In this study, the static and dynamic mechanical properties and the stability of novel lignocellulosic Moringa stenopetala (MS) husk fiber‐based epoxy composites exposed to various environmental factors were assessed. These harsh conditions were picked to imitate those encountered outside and influence the longevity of these composites. The obtained fiber from the husk was examined for its physiological, structural, and thermal characteristics. Using the Broido, Kissinger, Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa (FWO), Coats‐Redfern and Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunose (KAS) isoconventional models, the thermal degradation kinetics of the fibers were investigated. KAS method results in the best‐fitted curve and shows maximum activation energy of 175.13 KJ/mol. After husk fiber assessment, composite materials were fabricated using a Hand layup method, and their static and dynamic mechanical properties, water uptake rate, and contact angle analysis with surface energy behavior under various environmental aging circumstances were studied. In comparison to the composites “as developed,” the findings indicate that the mechanical characteristics of husk fiber‐based epoxy composites are significantly reduced by humidity and UV aging. Overall, the development of thermoset composites for structural applications can utilize husk fiber. Furthermore, after curing the water and UV‐aged composites, qualities can be recovered.
Synthesis of functionalized ZnO nanoflake loaded polyvinylidene fluoride composites with enhanced energy storage properties
Authors: Mukherjee Anindita , Dasgupta Ghosh Barnali
Published: February 2023

Polymer composite films are ideal materials for advanced energy storage capacitor in electrical systems. Therefore herein, we fabricated a novel series of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) based composites embedded with well dispersed ZnO@APTES {surface modified zinc oxide with (3‐Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES)} nanoflake (0, 20, 30, 40, 50) vol% through solution casting method. Hydrothermally synthesized two‐dimensional ZnO was pre‐treated with H2O2 and surface modified with APTES for perfect distribution of nanoflake into PVDF matrix. Surface modification and high aspect ratio morphology of ZnO@APTES enhanced the interfacial interaction between organic PVDF and inorganic ZnO through reduction in heterogeneity between them. Surface functionalization reduced the dielectric loss and improved the overall energy storage performance. Investigation of electrical properties proclaimed incorporating 30 Vol% ZnO@APTES in PVDF as optimized loading due to its appreciable Wrec (recoverable energy density) about 3.2 J/cm3. Relative comparison of the energy storage density (Wrec) of PVDF/ZnO@APTES (30) vol% with recent published works established its enhanced capacitive response and its future application in energy storing portable device.
Integrating ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and imaged capillary isoelectric focusing for in‐depth characterization of complex fusion proteins
Authors: Fan Wenhong , Li Xiang , Long Zhen , Pei Dening , Shi Xinchang , Wang Guangyu , Guo Ying , Bo Tao , Zhou Yong , Chen Tong
Published: February 2023

Rationale

Fc‐fusion proteins represent a successful class of biopharmaceutical products, which combine the tailored pharmacological properties of biological ligands with the multiple functions of the fragment crystallizable domain of immunoglobulins. There is great diversity in terms of possible biological ligands creating highly diverse structures, therefore the analytical characterization of fusion proteins is far more complex than that of monoclonal antibodies and requires the use and development of additional product‐specific methods over conventional generic/platform methods.

Methods

Employing etanercept analogues as studied fusion proteins, the Orbitrap mass analyzer with ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC–MS) and imaged capillary isoelectric focusing (icIEF) were utilized for the in‐depth fusion protein characterization.

Results

The amino acid sequence coverage, peptide mapping, and post‐translational modifications of etanercept analogues were analyzed by UHPLC–MS. The post‐translational modification results were complemented by imaged capillary isoelectric focusing to produce quality research on etanercept analogues.

Conclusions

The developed workflow integrating UHPLC–MS and icIEF provided an innovative strategy for characterizing complex fusion proteins in the process of quality control and manufacturing.
On the clique number of noisy random geometric graphs
Authors: Kahle Matthew , Tian Minghao , Wang Yusu
Published: February 2023

Let be a random geometric graph, and then for we construct a ‐perturbed noisy random geometric graph where each existing edge in is removed with probability , while and each non‐existent edge in is inserted with probability . We give asymptotically tight bounds on the clique number for several regimes of parameter.
Temperature‐Controlled Pathway Complexity in Self‐Assembly of Perylene Diimide‐Polydiacetylene Supramolecule
Authors: Seo Joonsik , Khazi Mohammed Iqbal , Bae Kwangmin , Kim Jong‐Man
Published: February 2023

Self‐assembly process represents one of the most powerful and efficient methods for designing functional nanomaterials. For generating optimal functional materials, understanding the pathway complexity during self‐assembly is essential, which involves the aggregation of molecules into thermodynamically or kinetically favored pathways. Herein, a functional perylene diimide (PDI) derivative by introducing diacetylene (DA) chains (PDI‐DA) is designed. Temperature control pathway complexity with the evolution of distinct morphology for the kinetic and thermodynamic product of PDI‐DA is investigated in detail. A facile strategy of UV‐induced polymerization is adopted to trap and capture metastable kinetic intermediates to understand the self‐assembly mechanism. PDI‐DA showed two kinetic intermediates having the morphology of nanosheets and nanoparticles before transforming into the thermodynamic product having fibrous morphology. Spectroscopic studies revealed the existence of distinct H‐ and J‐aggregates for kinetic and thermodynamic products respectively. The polymerized fibrous PDI‐DA displayed reversible switching between J‐aggregate and H‐aggregate.
Metal Nanoparticles as Novel Agents for Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Zheng Xinjie , Wu Yuan , Zuo Huali , Chen Weiyu , Wang Kai
Published: February 2023

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and contributes to most cancer‐related morbidity and mortality cases. During the past decades, the rapid development of nanotechnology has provided opportunities and challenges for lung cancer diagnosis and therapeutics. As one of the most extensively studied nanostructures, metal nanoparticles obtain higher satisfaction in biomedical applications associated with lung cancer. Metal nanoparticles have enhanced almost all major imaging strategies and proved great potential as sensor for detecting cancer‐specific biomarkers. Moreover, metal nanoparticles could also improve therapeutic efficiency via better drug delivery, improved radiotherapy, enhanced gene silencing, and facilitated photo‐driven treatment. Herein, the recently advanced metal nanoparticles applied in lung cancer therapy and diagnosis are summarized. Future perspective on the direction of metal‐based nanomedicine is also discussed. Stimulating more research interests to promote the development of metal nanoparticles in lung cancer is devoted.
Chiro‐Optoelectronic Encodable Multilevel Thin Film Electronic Elements with Active Bio‐Organic Electrolyte Layer
Authors: Han Moon Jong , Kim Minkyu , Tsukruk Vladimir V.
Published: February 2023

It is suggested that chiral photonic bio‐enabled integrated thin‐film electronic elements can pave the base for next‐generation optoelectronic processing, including quantum coding for encryption as well as integrated multi‐level logic circuits. Despite recent advances, thin‐film electronics for encryption applications with large‐scale reconfigurable and multi‐valued logic systems are not reported to date. Herein, highly secure optoelectronic encryption logic elements are demonstrated by facilitating the humidity‐sensitive helicoidal organization of chiral nematic phases of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) as an active electrolyte layer combined with printed organic semiconducting channels. The ionic‐strength controlled tunable photonic band gap facilitates distinguishable and quantized 13‐bit electric signals triggered by repetitive changes of humidity, voltage, and the polarization state of the incident light. As a proof‐of‐concept, the integrated circuits responding to circularly polarized light and humidity are demonstrated as unique physically unclonable functional devices with high‐level logic rarely achieved. The convergence between functional nanomaterials and the multi‐valued logic thin‐film electronic elements can provide optoelectronic counterfeiting, imaging, and information processing with multilevel logic nodes.
The combined effect of fiber and asphalt emulsion on properties of self‐compacting concrete
Authors: Umar Hussaini Abdullahi , Zeng Xiaohui , Long Guangcheng , Li Yirui , Zhao Hong
Published: February 2023

Self‐compacting concrete (SCC) has recently been used in concrete structures due to its improved workability properties compared to conventional concrete; however, the serviceability of SCC structures is usually jeopardized by undesirable impact and dynamic loads due to its brittleness and insufficient toughness. In this study, asphalt emulsion (AE) and fiber were incorporated into SCC to improve its performance properties. SCC samples with basalt fiber (BF), polypropylene fiber (PPF), and polyvinyl alcohol fiber (PVAF) at 0.2%, 0.35%, and 0.5% volume fraction were prepared. Ten percent AE content was used in each mix. The effects of AE and fiber on compressive strength, flexural strength, damping performance, and workability were determined. Results show that incorporating AE and fiber weakens the workability of SCC, and flowability decreases with an increase in fiber content. The compressive strength of SCC decreases when AE is added; however, the incorporation of fiber mitigates this effect. The addition of 10% AE increased the flexural strength by 7.64%, subsequent addition of fiber further increased the flexural strength; the addition of 0.2% BF, PPF, and PVAF increased the flexural strength by 10.14%, 17.94%, and 15.44%, respectively. The damping ratio of SCC increased by 38%, 40%, and 27% through the addition of 0.2% BF, PPF, and PVAF, respectively. However, the damping ratio shows a decreasing trend after adding 0.5% BF and PP fiber.
The literary portfolio: Summative assessment of literary competences in autonomous learning environments
Authors: Siepmann Philipp
Published: February 2023

This article reports on the development of the literary portfolio as an alternative to standard written tests in summative assessment of literary competences in the English as a foreign language (EFL) classroom. It is argued that traditional class tests put a too narrow focus on those aspects of literary competences that are more readily operationalized and thus lend themselves better to testing. This, however, may result in a negative washback on teaching. Building on, and operationalizing, the model of literary competence by Diehr and Surkamp (2015), the literary portfolio is designed to cover the various dimensions of this complex competence. At the same time, it tackles the problem that dealing with class readers often leaves students with little freedom to pursue their own (reading) interests or set priorities in working with the texts. The literary portfolio allows students to take responsibility for their own learning as they can choose a text from a shortlist, tasks to work on, and levels of cooperation with peers. As will be demonstrated in a case study carried out in an eighth‐grade intermediate‐level EFL classroom, the implementation of the literary portfolio entailed an innovative way of learning with literature in an autonomous learning environment.
Inheriting the DNA of emergingness: Strategies of advanced market firms under emerging market ownership
Authors: He Geer , Fukuchi Hiroyuki
Published: February 2023

Despite growing concerns about emerging market firms (EMFs)' acquisitions in advanced markets, the influences of emerging market ownership on advanced market firms (AMFs) as targets remain largely underexplored. This study aims to conceptually advance our understanding of the environmental adaptation strategies of AMFs under emerging market ownership, focusing on the strategic implications of the “emergingness” encapsulated in the resource transfer from EMF acquirers to AMF targets. Drawing on the institution‐based view and resource‐based view, this conceptual piece develops an Institution‐Resource‐Strategy framework and proposes two types of strategies for AMFs under emerging market ownership, namely arbitrage and avoidance, each comprising three varying tactics. We illustrate our propositions using three cases of Japanese firms under Chinese ownership. This study adds to the literature on internationalizing EMFs, the institution‐based view of global strategies, and cross‐border mergers and acquisitions and offers managerial implications for emerging and advanced market stakeholders.
Celebrating LGBT+ History Month 2023
Authors: Whitmore James
Published: February 2023

As LGBT+ History Month kicks off, BVLGBT+ president James Whitmore introduces the society's role model campaign.
John Tyson (Ian) Gemmell
Authors: Moser Aileen
Published: February 2023

A vet who had a way with animals and the ability to say just the right thing.
Correction to: Sámi Teacher Education or Teacher Education for Sámi Students? Central Cornerstones in Sámi Teacher Education
Authors: Nutti Ylva Jannok
Published: February 2023

The original version of the book was inadvertently published with incorrect citation “Guttorm (2020)” in Sections 4.4.1 and 4.4.2. The citations have now been updated in the chapter.
Correction to: The International Handbook of Social Enterprise Law
Authors: Peter Henry , Vargas Vasserot Carlos , Alcalde Silva Jaime
Published: February 2023

Due to an unfortunate oversight, no details of the second funder were given on page iv of the original version. This has now been corrected and the following text included.
Double-copy towards supergravity inflation with α-attractor models
Authors: Carrasco John Joseph M. , Lewandowski Matthew , Pavao Nicolas H.
Published: February 2023

Abstract

Key to the simplicity of supergravity α-attractor models of inflation are Volkov-Akulov fermions, often in the form of nilpotent superfields. Here we explore the possibility of using the double-copy to construct theories of Dirac-Born-Infeld-Volkov-Akulov (DBIVA) coupled to supergravity. A color-dual bootstrap admits scattering amplitudes involving pions and vectors through five-point tree-level order by order in mass-dimension, but requires the introduction of a Tr(F3) operator. Gauge theories with this operator were recently found to require a tower of higher-derivative operators to be compatible with the duality between color and kinematics. Adjoint-type double-copy construction at its most conservative seems to require the UV completion of DBIVA + pure Poincaré supergravity scattering amplitudes to a family of theories involving DBIVA-like particles coupled to Weyl-Einstein supergravity. We also point out an alternative solution to color-dual gauged pions that allows adjoint double-copy without a tower of higher derivative corrections but at the cost of exchange symmetry between scalars.
Ein Vergleich von 4 konvolutionalen neuronalen Netzen in der histopathologischen Diagnostik von Speicheldrüsenkarzinomen
Authors: Schulz Tobias , Becker Christoph , Kayser Gian
Published: February 2023

Hintergrund

Maligne Speicheldrüsentumoren sind aufgrund ihrer großen Anzahl an histopathologischen Entitäten, ihres seltenen Auftretens und der Vielfalt der klinischen und histologischen Präsentation eine besondere Herausforderung in der Diagnostik. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist es, die Anwendung von konvolutionalen neuronalen Netzen (CNN) als Hilfsmittel bei der histologischen Diagnose von malignen Speicheldrüsentumoren zu untersuchen und zu vergleichen.

Methoden

Dazu wurden 118 histologische Schnitte von Speicheldrüsenkarzinompräparaten von 68 Patienten hochauflösend digitalisiert. Diese virtuellen Schnitte wurden in kleine Bildausschnitte unterteilt. Die 83.819 Bilder wurden in 4 Kategorien eingeteilt: Hintergrund, Binde- und Stützgewebe, nichtneoplastisches Speicheldrüsengewebe und Speicheldrüsenkarzinomgewebe, wobei unter der letzten Kategorie die Entitäten adenoidzystisches Karzinom, Adenokarzinom („not otherwise specified“), Azinuszellkarzinom, Basalzellkarzinom, Mukoepidermoidkarzinom und das myoepitheliale Karzinom zusammengefasst wurden. Die kategorisierten Bilder wurden dann in einem Trainings‑, Validierungs- und Testlauf von mit dem Bilddatensatz ImageNet vortrainierten CNN (Inception ResNet v2, Inception v3, ResNet152, Xception) in verschiedenen Pixelgrößen verarbeitet.

Ergebnisse

Die Accuracy-Werte reichten von 18,8–84,7 % über alle Netzarchitekturen und Pixelgrößen, dabei erreichte das Inception-v3-Netz den höchsten Wert bei 500 × 500 Pixel. Die erreichten Recall-Werte bzw. die Sensitivität für verschiedene Pixelgrößen lagen bei bis zu 85 % (Inception-v3-Netz bei 1000 × 1000 Pixel). Der minimal erreichte F1-Score misst 0,07 für das Inception ResNet v2 sowie das Inception v3 bei jeweils 100 × 100 Pixeln, der maximal erreichte F1-Score lag bei 0,72 für das Xception bei 1000 × 1000 Pixeln. Das Netz mit den kürzesten Trainingszeiten war das Inception v3, das allen anderen getesteten Netzen bei jeder Pixelgröße überlegen war.

Schlussfolgerung

In der vorliegenden Arbeit konnte erstmals für den Bereich der histopathologischen Analyse von Speicheldrüsenhistologien die Anwendbarkeit von CNN dargestellt und ein Vergleich der Performance verschiedener Netzarchitekturen angestellt werden. Die Ergebnisse lassen einen deutlichen potenziellen Nutzen zukünftiger Anwendungen erkennen.