bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of degree of internationalization of MNEs on green innovation performance: The moderating role of absorptive capacity and global dynamic management capability
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhong Xiuli , Li Xue
Published: August 2023

With the increasing attention given to resource scarcity and environmental destruction, growing pressure is imposed upon MNEs (multinational enterprises) by a wide range of stakeholders to exert green innovation. Although an emerging body of research has explored the contributing factors of green innovation, little attention has been paid to the impact of internationalization, especially the different dimensions of internationalization, on green innovation performance. To address this research gap, this research aims to examine the role of both the breadth (geographical range) and depth (intensity) of internationalization on green innovation performance of MNEs, and investigate the moderating roles of MNEs' global dynamic management capability and absorptive capacity. Based on organizational learning theory, this study used secondary data from Chinese listed companies and established econometric models to test the proposed research framework. The results indicated that the breadth of internationalization could enhance MNEs' green innovation performance. Alternatively, the depth of internationalization could inhibit green innovation performance. In addition, the results also revealed that global dynamic managerial and absorptive capacities can both enhance the positive effect between internationalization breadth and green innovation performance while weakening the negative effect of internationalization depth on green innovation performance. This study has implications for strengthening our knowledge of green innovation performance as well as enhancing policy design for sustainable development.
Small extrachromosomal circular DNAs as biomarkers for multi‐cancer diagnosis and monitoring
Authors: Luo Xuanmei , Zhang Lili , Cui Jian , An Qi , Li Hexin , Zhang Zaifeng , Sun Gaoyuan , Huang Wei , Li Yifei , Li Chang , Jia Wenzhuo , Zou Lihui , Zhao Gang , Xiao Fei
Published: August 2023

Background

Small extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) have the potential to be cancer biomarkers. However, the formation mechanisms and functions of small eccDNAs selected in carcinogenesis are not clear, and whether the small eccDNA profile in the plasma of cancer patients represents that in cancer tissues remains to be elucidated.

Methods

A novel sequencing workflow based on the nanopore sequencing platform was used to sequence naturally existing full‐length small eccDNAs in tissues and plasma collected from 25 cancer patients (including prostate cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and colorectal cancer), and from an independent validation cohort (including 7 cancer plasma and 14 healthy plasma).

Results

Compared with those in non‐cancer tissues, small eccDNAs detected in cancer tissues had a significantly larger number and size (P = 0.040 and 2.2e‐16, respectively), along with more even distribution and different formation mechanisms. Although small eccDNAs had different general characteristics and genomic annotation between cancer tissues and the paired plasma, they had similar formation mechanisms and cancer‐related functions. Small eccDNAs originated from some specific genes had great multi‐cancer diagnostic value in tissues (AUC ≥ 0.8) and plasma (AUC > 0.9), especially increasing the accuracy of multi‐cancer prediction of CEA/CA19‐9 levels. The high multi‐cancer diagnostic value of small eccDNAs originated from ALK&ETV6 could be extrapolated from tissues (AUC = 0.804) to plasma and showed high positive predictive value (100%) and negative predictive value (82.35%) in a validation cohort.

Conclusions

As independent and stable circular DNA molecules, small eccDNAs in both tissues and plasma can be used as ideal biomarkers for cost‐effective multi‐cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
SMAD4: A critical regulator of cardiac neural crest cell fate and vascular smooth muscle development
Authors: Alexander Brianna E. , Zhao Huaning , Astrof Sophie
Published: August 2023

Background

During embryogenesis, cardiac neural crest‐derived cells (NCs) migrate into the pharyngeal arches and give rise to the vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) of the pharyngeal arch arteries (PAAs). vSMCs are critical for the remodeling of the PAAs into their final adult configuration, giving rise to the aortic arch and its arteries (AAAs).

Results

We investigated the role of SMAD4 in NC‐to‐vSMC differentiation using lineage‐specific inducible mouse strains. We found that the expression of SMAD4 in the NC is indelible for regulating the survival of cardiac NCs. Although the ablation of SMAD4 at E9.5 in the NC lineage led to a near‐complete absence of NCs in the pharyngeal arches, PAAs became invested with vSMCs derived from a compensatory source. Analysis of AAA development at E16.5 showed that the alternative vSMC source compensated for the lack of NC‐derived vSMCs and rescued AAA morphogenesis.

Conclusions

Our studies uncovered the requisite role of SMAD4 in the contribution of the NC to the pharyngeal arch mesenchyme. We found that in the absence of SMAD4+ NCs, vSMCs around the PAAs arose from a different progenitor source, rescuing AAA morphogenesis. These findings shed light on the remarkable plasticity of developmental mechanisms governing AAA development.
Correlation between E‐cadherin/β‐catenin, Vimentin expression, clinicopathologic features and drug resistance prediction in naïve prostate cancer: A molecular and clinical study
Authors: Said Rahma , Hernández‐Losa Javier , Derouiche Amine , Moline Teresa , de Haro Rosa Somoza Lopez , Zouari Skander , Blel Ahlem , Rammeh Soumaya , Ouerhani Slah
Published: August 2023

Although epithelial–mesenchymal markers play an important role in prostate cancer (PC), further research is needed to better understand their utility in diagnosis, cancer progression prevention, and treatment resistance prediction. Our study included 111 PC patients who underwent transurethral resection, as well as 16 healthy controls. Reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) was used to examine the expression of E‐cadherin, β‐catenin, and Vimentin. We found that E‐cadherin and β‐catenin were underexpressed in primary PC tissues. E‐cadherin expression was found to be inversely associated with prostate‐specific antigen progression (PSA‐P; serum marker of progression; p = 0.01; |r| = 0.262). Furthermore, the underexpression of two markers, E‐cadherin and β‐catenin, was found to be associated with advanced tumor stage and grade (p < 0.05). On the other hand, Vimentin was overexpressed in PC patients with a fold change of 2.141, and it was associated with the diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of treatment resistance to androgen deprivation therapy (p = 0.002), abiraterone‐acid (p = 0.001), and taxanes (p = 0.029). Moreover, the current study highlighted that poor survival could be significantly found in patients who progressed after primary surgery, did not use drugs, and expressed these genes aberrantly. In Cox regression multivariate analysis (p < 0.05), a positive correlation between the Vimentin marker and coronary heart disease in PC patients was identified (p = 0.034). In summary, the present study highlights the diagnostic (p < 0.001), prognostic (p < 0.001), and therapeutic potential of Vimentin in primary PC (p < 0.05), as well as its implications for cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, we confirm the potential prognostic value of E‐cadherin and β‐catenin.
Avian species functional diversity and habitat use: The role of forest structural attributes and tree diversity in the Midlands Mistbelt Forests of KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa
Authors: Bitani Nasiphi , Cordier Craig P. , Ehlers Smith David A. , Ehlers Smith Yvette C. , Downs Colleen T.
Published: August 2023

Forest transformation has major impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Identifying the influence of forest habitat structure and composition on avian functional communities is important for conserving and managing forest systems. This study investigated the effect of forest structure and composition characteristics on bird species community structure, habitat use and functional diversity in 14 Mistbelt Forest patches of the Midlands of KwaZulu‐Natal in South Africa. We surveyed bird communities using point counts. We quantified bird functional diversity for each forest patch using three diversity indices: functional richness, functional evenness and functional divergence. We further assessed species‐specific responses by focussing on three avian forest specialists, orange ground‐thrush Geokichla gurneyi, forest canary Crithagra scotops and Cape parrot Poicephalus robustus. We found that bird community and forest‐specialist species responses to forest structure and tree species diversity differed. Also, forest structural complexity, canopy cover and tree species richness were the main forest characteristics better at explaining microhabitat influence on bird functional diversity. Forest patches with relatively high structural complexity and tree species richness had higher functional richness. Different structural characteristics influenced habitat use by the three forest specialists. Tree species diversity influenced C. scotops and G. gurneyi positively, while P. robustus responded negatively to forest patches with high tree species richness. Our study showed that site‐scale forest structure and composition characteristics are important for bird species richness and functional richness. Forest patches with high tree species diversity and structural complexity should be maintained to conserve forest specialists, bird species richness and functional richness.
What drives seed dispersal effectiveness?
Authors: Nevo Omer , Filla Caitlynn , Valenta Kim , Schupp Eugene W.
Published: August 2023

Seed dispersal is a critical phase in plant reproduction and forest regeneration. In many systems, the vast majority of woody species rely on seed dispersal by fruit‐eating animals. Animals differ in their size, movement patterns, seed handling, gut physiology, and many other factors that affect the number of seeds they disperse, the quality of treatment each individual seed receives, and consequently their relative contribution to plant fitness. The seed dispersal effectiveness framework (SDE) was developed to allow systematic and standardized quantification of these processes, offering a potential for understanding the large‐scale dynamics of animal–plant interactions and the ecological and evolutionary consequences of animal behavior for plant reproductive success. Yet, despite its wide acceptance, the SDE framework has primarily been employed descriptively, almost always in the context of local systems. As such, the drivers of variation in SDE across systems and the relationship between its components remain unknown. We systematically searched studies that quantified endozoochorous SDE for multiple animal species dispersing one or more plant species in a given system and offered an integrative examination of the factors driving variation in SDE. Specifically, we addressed three main questions: (a) Is there a tradeoff between high dispersal quality and quantity? (b) Does animal body mass affect SDE or its main components? and (c) What drives more variation in SDE, seed dispersal quality, or quantity? We found that: (a) the relationship between quality and quantity is mediated by body size; (b) this is the result of differential relationships between body mass and the two components, while total SDE is unaffected by body mass; (c)neither quality nor quantity explain more variance in SDE globally. Our results also highlight the need for more standardized data to assess large‐scale patterns in SDE.
Comparison of metabolic rate between two genetically distinct populations of lake sturgeon
Authors: Yoon Gwangseok R. , Thorstensen Matt J. , Bugg William S. , Bouyoucos Ian A. , Deslauriers David , Anderson W. Gary
Published: August 2023

Environmental temperatures differ across latitudes in the temperate zone, with relatively lower summer and fall temperatures in the north leading to a shorter growing season prior to winter. As an adaptive response, during early life stages, fish in northern latitudes may grow faster than their conspecifics in southern latitudes, which potentially manifests as different allometric relationships between body mass and metabolic rate. In the present study, we examined if population or year class had an effect on the variation of metabolic rate and metabolic scaling of age‐0 lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) by examining these traits in both a northern (Nelson River) and a southern (Winnipeg River) population. We compiled 6 years of data that used intermittent flow respirometry to measure metabolic rate within the first year of life for developing sturgeon that were raised in the same environment at 16°C. We then used a Bayesian modeling approach to examine the impacts of population and year class on metabolic rate and mass‐scaling of metabolic rate. Despite previous reports of genetic differences between populations, our results showed that there were no significant differences in standard metabolic rate, routine metabolic rate, maximum metabolic rate, and metabolic scaling between the two geographically separated populations at a temperature of 16°C. Our analysis implied that the lack of metabolic differences between populations could be due to family effects/parental contribution, or the rearing temperature used in the study. The present research provided insights for conservation and reintroduction strategies for these populations of lake sturgeon, which are endangered or threatened across most of their natural range.
Genomic analysis reveals complex population structure within the smooth newt, Lissotriton vulgaris, in Central Europe
Authors: Herczeg Dávid , Palomar Gemma , Zieliński Piotr , van Riemsdijk Isolde , Babik Wiesław , Dankovics Róbert , Halpern Bálint , Cvijanović Milena , Vörös Judit
Published: August 2023

Species with wide‐range distributions usually display high genetic variation. This variation can be partly explained by historical lineages that were temporally isolated from each other and are back into secondary reproductive contact, and partly by local adaptations. The smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) is one of the most widely distributed amphibians species across Eurasia and forms a species complex with a partially overlapping distribution and morphology. In the present study, we explored the population genomic structure of smooth newt lineages in the Carpathian Basin (CB) relying on single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. Our dataset included new and previously published data to study the secondary contact zone between lineages in the CB and also tested for the barrier effect of rivers to gene flow between these lineages. We confirmed the presence of the South L. v. vulgaris Lineage distributed in Transdanubia and we provided new distribution records of L. v. ampelensis inhabiting the eastern territories of the CB. High genetic diversity of smooth newts was observed, especially in the North Hungarian Mountains and at the interfluves of the main rivers in the South with four distinct lineages of L. v. vulgaris and one lineage of L. v. ampelensis showing a low level of admixture with the spatially closest L. v. vulgaris lineage. Moreover, admixture detected at the interfluve of the main rivers (i.e. Danube and Tisza) suggested a secondary contact zone in the area. Finally, we found that the river Danube has a very weak effect on population divergence, while the river Tisza is a geographical barrier limiting gene flow between smooth newt lineages. As the range boundaries of L. v. vulgaris and L. v. ampelensis in the CB coincide with the river Tisza, our study underpins the influence of rivers in lineage diversification.
Lagging behind the Western countries: the knowledge gaps of gender differences in heart failure in Asia
Authors: Qiu Weida , Cai Anping , Li Liwen , Feng Yingqing
Published: August 2023

Gender differences in heart failure (HF), ranging from epidemiological and pathophysiological factors to therapeutic response and prognosis, have been well documented in Western countries, especially in Europe and North America. The above gender differences in HF found in Westerners are rarely investigated in Asians. In this review, we explore the worrying knowledge gap on the gender differences in HF that existed in Asia in contrast with Western populations based on the following four aspects: epidemiology, risk factors, therapy, and prognosis. Finally, we conclude that investigations of gender differences in HF in Asia lag behind those in Europe and North America. Future work is required to establish and better use the high‐level, population‐based cohorts and develop our own high‐quality, convincing clinical trials to deliver robust gender‐specific conclusions in Asia.
Synthesis of Deuterated and Protiated Triacylglycerides by Using 1,1’‐Carbonyldiimidazole Activated Fatty Acids
Authors: Schwärzer Kuno , Heiden‐Hecht Theresia , Chen Yao , Holderer Olaf , Frielinghaus Henrich , Li Peixun , Allgaier Jürgen
Published: August 2023

Synthetic model triacylglyceride oils are important compounds for applications in pharmaceutical and food chemistry. Herein, a practical and highly efficient methodology for the synthesis of saturated and unsaturated triacylglycerides utilizing saturated and unsaturated fatty acids activated by 1,1’‐carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) has been developed and applied in the synthesis of deuterated medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil for studies of plant‐based and diary food emulsions. The deuterium labelled compounds were used to gain new insight into the mechanism of the reaction, which was confirmed by density‐functional theory (DFT) calculations.
Reply to Letter to the Editor: Should there be a definite place for grade in the next TNM staging system for (major) salivary gland malignancies?
Authors: Ho Allen S. , Luu Michael , Balzer Bonnie L. , Zumsteg Zachary S.
Published: August 2023

See page 2741
System verification via Model‐Checking: A case study of an autonomous multi‐differential drive robot
Authors: Phillips Ibukun , Kenley C. Robert
Published: August 2023

Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) has been utilized in practice to design and behavioral modeling cyber‐physical systems. The Vee model helps frame MBSE's lifecycle approach, with system verification a vital aspect of the qualification process. However, popular modeling language tools in MBSE, such as Systems Modeling Language (SysML), are incapable of formally verifying these systems. Model checking allows for the development of formal system models similar in abstraction to SysML models for automatically checking if these formal models satisfy formal specifications. We propose an approach to translate behavioral diagrams in SysML, such as state‐machine diagrams, to the popular symbolic model checker NuSMV for formal verification. As a case study, we apply this process to autonomous multi‐differential drive robots (DDR). Subsequently, the NuSMV model is verified against some formal operational specifications obtained from the requirements diagram of the DDR. This system verification approach can help System Engineers identify design flaws or incorrect modeling or specifications that could be missed during the design phase through the results of the model checking process.
ASPICE compliance development of Cyber‐Physical Systems by using Model‐Based Systems Engineering
Authors: Fanmuy Gauthier , Hassan Bassem
Published: August 2023

Current automotive Industry is facing numerous challenges. Business model is transitioning from ownership to shared mobility. Mobility of the future is becoming smarter, safer, more secured and connected. Distributed interconnected automotive systems will deliver added‐value mobility services. In the meantime, industrial standards require description of systems engineering practices as well as the practices justification. Automotive SPICE (ASPICE), a standard of software development best practices for automotive industry, for example, was one of the first to support the development of system and software now include hardware and cybersecurity. Traditional systems engineering development approaches are not any more appropriate. The current automotive system complexity requires new approaches like Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), using modeling and simulation. To address compliance to industry standards, traditional quality approaches consisting of or defining a quality system with a set of processes (e.g. Requirement elicitation process, documentation process…) are no more sufficient. Addressing these challenges require a digital transformation with two pillars. The first pillar is an MBSE methodology such as Cyber MagicGrid (Dassault Systèmes MBSE method) to define a set of best practices to develop a system. The second pillar is a quality management system that relies on the MBSE methodology rather than on a set of enterprise processes to address compliance with standards. Benefits of this approach is in acceleration of the digital enterprise transformation which is achieved by capitalizing the know‐how and considering the industry standards constraints.
Model‐based Framework for Data and Knowledge‐Driven Systems Architecting Demonstrated on a Hydrogen‐Powered Concept Aircraft
Authors: Kuelper Nils , Bielsky Thimo , Broehan Jasmin , Thielecke Frank
Published: August 2023

Aircraft development is a protracted process over many years. Novel concept aircraft with new energy sources and disruptive systems technologies are investigated during the aircraft conceptual design phase with the goal to achieve sustainable aviation. Current development cycles need to be accelerated to reduce time to market and development costs of novel aircraft, while still handling complexity and uncertainty of systems technologies. Therefore, a holistic framework for knowledge‐based systems architecting using a model‐based systems engineering approach is presented. This framework has the purpose to conserve and provide knowledge, i.e., information, data, and experiences about existing systems architectures, to the engineer. The developed framework consists of a database concept, a method for model‐based systems architecting, and an interface to the overall systems design software toolGeneSys. Based on evaluating different modeling languages and tools,MathWorks System Composeris selected as most suitable tool for knowledge‐based systems architecting. The developed framework is then demonstrated by conserving and reusing formalized knowledge for the design of a novel hydrogen‐powered concept aircraft. On‐board systems architecture models are saved in a database and automatically recreated reducing development time. The complete graphical representation could not yet be stored in a formalized manner partly reducing the advantage of a clear representation of model‐based systems architecting. However, this did not reduce automatic recreation and evaluation capabilities.
Exertional Heat Strain Detection: Application of the Human Performance Model Based Systems Engineering System Architecture (MBSE‐SA)
Authors: Sarathi Tara , Morris Heather , Collins Paula , Shatz Michael
Published: August 2023

Exertional Heat Illness is a significant health concern for the US military, with over 12,300 incidents having occurred during the last five years. In order to help implement preventative measures, wearable devices can be used to provide military leaders with real‐time physiological status monitoring of warfighters. While there are a large number of commercial‐off‐the‐shelf (COTS) wearable devices that could be used for this purpose, not every wearable device is suitable for every military use case. To expedite the process of recommending which wearable systems are suitable for a variety of military use cases, we utilized the Wearables Model Based Systems Engineering System Architecture (MBSE‐SA) developed in our previous work. In addition, we developed a cost‐benefit simulation within the MBSE‐SA to allow users to visualize the cost impact of a chosen system on heat‐related medical costs.
Using model‐based systems engineering to design system‐based digital twins
Authors: Pereira Pessoa Marcus Vinicius , Lopes Schuch Ana Paula , Bezerra Juliana Melo
Published: August 2023

Although the application of model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) is an alternative for designing digital twins (DTs), MBSE possesses a steep learning curve, and quite often companies struggle to translate its theoretical benefits into their reality. Furthermore, the challenge of determining the DT model's fidelity, which brings balance between simulation accuracy and development costs, increases the modelling task difficulty. This paper presents the initial results from the research into facilitating the design of a system‐based DT, where various models are combined to obtain the desired representation of reality. The main contribution of this paper is towards MBSE practice, where a simplified eight‐step MBSE modelling approach for system‐based DTs is proposed. The modelling approach begins with the existing physical product and the need for a DT and results in a simulation model that constitutes the core of an actionable virtual twin. To shorten the MBSE learning curve, a set of guidelines is proposed to delimitate the Systems Modelling Language (SysML) use in Eclipse Papyrus, and a Python parser was built to convert the SysML models' information into the simulation model. The approach, guidelines and parser are analysed via an application example. In this example, the model's creation, validation and use are illustrated. The initial results indicate that the approach and modelling guidelines provide the necessary scaffolding for simplifying and facilitating MBSE application and SysML use in the design of system‐based DTs.
A thermo‐resistant and RNase‐sensitive cargo from Giardia duodenalis extracellular vesicles modifies the behaviour of enterobacteria
Authors: Siddiq Affan , Dong George , Balan Balu , Harrison Luke G. , Jex Aaron , Olivier Martin , Allain Thibault , Buret Andre G.
Published: August 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) recently emerged as important players in the pathophysiology of parasitic infections. While the protist parasite Giardia duodenalis can produce EVs, their role in giardiasis remains obscure. Giardia can disrupt gut microbiota biofilms and transform commensal bacteria into invasive pathobionts at sites devoid of colonizing trophozoites via unknown mechanisms. We hypothesized that Giardia EVs could modify gut bacterial behaviour via a novel mode of trans‐kingdom communication. Our findings indicate that Giardia EVs exert bacteriostatic effects on Escherichia coli HB101 and Enterobacter cloacae TW1, increasing their swimming motility. Giardia EVs also decreased the biofilm‐forming ability of E. coli HB101 but not by E. cloacae TW1, supporting the hypothesis that these effects are, at least in part, bacteria‐selective. E. coli HB101 and E. cloacae TW1 exhibited increased adhesion/invasion onto small intestine epithelial cells when exposed to Giardia EVs. EVs labelled with PKH67 revealed colocalization with E. coli HB101 and E. cloacae TW1 bacterial cells. Small RNA sequencing revealed a high abundance of ribosomal RNA (rRNA)‐ and transfer RNA (tRNA)‐derived small RNAs, short‐interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and micro‐RNAs (miRNAs) within Giardia EVs. Proteomic analysis of EVs uncovered the presence of RNA chaperones and heat shock proteins that can facilitate the thermal stability of EVs and its sRNA cargo, as well as protein‐modifying enzymes. In vitro, RNase heat‐treatment assays showed that total RNAs in EVs, but not proteins, are responsible for modulating bacterial swimming motility and biofilm formation. G. duodenalis small RNAs of EVs, but not proteins, were responsible for the increased bacterial adhesion to intestinal epithelial cells induced upon exposure to Giardia EVs. Together, the findings indicate that Giardia EVs contain a heat‐stable, RNase‐sensitive cargo that can trigger the development of pathobiont characteristics in Enterobacteria, depicting a novel trans‐kingdom cross‐talk in the gut.
Porphyrin precursors and risk of primary liver cancer in acute intermittent porphyria: A case–control study of 188 patients
Authors: Lissing Mattias , Wester Axel , Vassiliou Daphne , Floderus Ylva , Harper Pauline , Sardh Eliane , Wahlin Staffan
Published: August 2023

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a rare hereditary metabolic disease characterized by acute attacks and accumulation of the porphyrin precursors 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and porphobilinogen (PBG). Patients with AIP have a high risk of primary liver cancer (PLC). We aimed to assess the association between porphyrin precursor excretion and the risk for PLC in patients with AIP. We studied 48 patients with AIP who developed PLC between 1987 and 2015 and 140 age and sex matched controls with AIP but no PLC. Data on all available urinary PBG and ALA samples collected from 1975 until 1 year before PLC diagnosis were analyzed and compared between cases and controls using logistic regression. Porphyrin precursor excretion was higher in patients with PLC (PBG median 7.9 [IQR 4.4–21.9] mmol/mol creatinine) than in controls (3.8 [1.2–9.8]) (adjusted odds ratio 1.07, 95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.12). None of the 28 patients with all registered samples below the upper limit of normal (ULN) developed PLC, and only one of the 45 patients with all samples <2× ULN developed PLC. Among non‐PLC controls, ALA and PBG levels decreased after age 50–60 while an increasing trend was observed after age 65 among those who developed PLC. Increased urinary porphyrin precursors are associated with a high risk of developing PLC. Patients with normal levels appear to have a low risk while high or increasing ALA and PBG after age 65 indicates high risk, which should be considered in surveillance decisions.
Effect of postharvest storage time on quality characteristics of explosion puffing dried whole shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) crisps
Authors: Xu Yan , Zhao Ya , Zhang Yuexiang , Shi Qilong
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Non‐fried shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) crisps fabricated by explosion puffing drying (EPD) are receiving worldwide attention because of their crispness, convenience, nutrition and health functions. The quality of mushroom crisps varies with storage time of fresh L. edodes. Therefore, the effect of postharvest storage time (ranging from 0 to 14 days) of fresh L. edodes on quality characteristics of EPD‐ processed mushroom crisps was evaluated.

RESULTS

The weight loss and total color difference of fresh L. edodes were increased to 2.95% and 24.66, but moisture content, firmness and lightness were reduced by 6.14%, 40.70% and 43.57%, respectively, after 14 days storage. The puffing degree of mushroom crisps was initially increased to its highest value (55.95%) on the 4th day storage and thereafter decreased. The highest rehydration ratio (2.36) and crispness (63.67), and lowest hardness (102.95 N) of mushroom crisps were fabricated with L. edodes on the 4th day of storage. Free water was predominant in fresh L. edodes, which was decreased for fresh L. edodes, whereas it increased initially to the maximum value and decreased thereafter for osmotic dehydrated and heat pump pre‐dried L. edodes with increasing storage time. Principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis confirmed that fresh L. edodes stored at different times had a remarkable effect on quality characteristics of mushroom crisps.

CONCLUSION

Fresh L. edodes stored at 4 ± 1 °C for 4 days is recommended for fabrication of mushroom crisps with superior quality. This study provides a theoretical basis for selection of a suitable storage time for fresh L. edodes before EPD of crisps. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Understanding frozen section histopathology in Sinonasal and anterior skull base malignancy and proposed reporting guidelines
Authors: Mclean Tim , Fitzgerald Conall , Eagan Alana , Long Sallie M. , Cracchiolo Jennifer , Shah Jatin , Patel Snehal , Ganly Ian , Dogan Snjezana , Cohen Marc A. ,   other members of the study group
Published: August 2023

Background

Intraoperative frozen section histopathology (IFSH) in sinonasal and skull base surgery although widely used is not well studied.

Methods

We reviewed a database of sinonasal and anterior skull base tumors, between 1973 and 2019, and identified 312 suitable operative cases. Clinicopathologic data was collected and analyzed, in addition to descriptive data for histopathological reports classified as “ambiguous,” or “limited/insufficient‐quality/quantity.”

Results

Overall, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy for IFSH were 90.2%, 97.5%, 94.2%, 95.6%, and 95.2%, respectively. IFSH for adenocarcinoma, salivary carcinoma, and SCC all demonstrated a better clinical utility with a sensitivity of 90% or greater, while it was less than 90% for esthesioneuroblastoma, melanoma, and sarcoma. Other factors such as unclear reporting, poor quality specimens, or limited quality specimens were shown to lower diagnostic performance. Based on limitations identified, we proposed a novel IFSH reporting algorithm to improve IFSH in sinonasal and skull base surgery.

Conclusions

IFSH is an accurate and clinically useful technique in sinonasal and skull base surgery patients; however, limitations exist.
Effects of fertilizer application strategies on soil organic carbon and total nitrogen storage under different agronomic practices: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Bohoussou N'Dri Yves , Han Shou‐Wei , Li Hao‐Ran , Kouadio Yao Dinard , Ejaz Irsa , Virk Ahmad Latif , Dang Yash Pal , Zhao Xin , Zhang Hai‐Lin
Published: August 2023

Fertilizer application strategies can impact soil health, mainly soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) sequestration, which are essential in mitigating climate change. Many studies have been conducted on the influence of fertilizer use on SOC and TN storage. Results can, however, be variable in different sites because of various management practices and environmental conditions; therefore, we conducted a global meta‐analysis of 953 observations from 143 papers on the impact of different fertilizers (mineral N (NF), manure (Mn) and mixed fertilizers (MNF: combination of mineral and organic fertilizer)) on SOC and TN storage under various cropping systems and environmental conditions in agricultural land. The results showed that MNF led to the greatest SOC and TN stocks. Noticeably, animal Mn sequestered higher amounts of SOC and TN compared to green Mn. In addition, MNF increases SOC in the medium term (10–20 years, 43.71%) and TN in the short term (0–10 years, 40.85%), which could be related to their nutrient's cycles and residence time in the soil. The higher effectiveness of SOC and TN sequestration (12.84% and 27.42%, respectively) under NF was observed at high rates >250 kg N/ha in comparison to low rates of 0–250 kg N/ha. A significant SOC increment was observed with MNF (37.76%) and Mn (19.45%) under continuous cropping (monoculture) than crop rotations. In contrast, TN was higher with MNF (58.31%) and Mn (18.23%) with crop rotations. The subhumid and semi‐arid zones had greater increase in SOC (28.24%) and TN (74.54%) stock in comparison to other climatic conditions. Overall, this study emphasized that MNF could optimize SOC and TN storage in agricultural soils depending upon edaphic and regional climatic conditions.
Response of the tomato rhizosphere bacterial community to water–oxygen coupling under micronanobubble oxygenated drip irrigation in mildly saline soil
Authors: Wang Jingwei , Guo Shenghao , Zhang Shihua , Zhang Chengcai , Niu Wenquan , Song Xiaowei , Han Jinxian
Published: August 2023

The deterioration of the soil water–air environment due to salinization can reduce soil bacterial activity and cause crop yield reduction. Micronanobubble oxygenated drip irrigation can significantly improve the nonsaline soil water–air environment and enhance bacterial activity, but its effect on salinized soil bacteria is unknown. In this study, we used a tomato cultivation experiment in mildly saline soil to evaluate the responses of the rhizosphere bacterial community to the soil microenvironment created by micronanobubble oxygenated drip irrigation. The results indicated that the soil environmental factors (including soil electrical conductivity, i.e., EC) (r = 0.46) and root length (r = −0.86) had important regulatory effects on bacterial community function, which had significant direct effects on tomato yield (r = 0.46). The moderate dissolved oxygen concentration treatment significantly reduced the EC by 63.22%–73.32% compared with CK (noncultivated soil treatment) and generally increased the root length; however, only the combination of a moderate dissolved oxygen concentration and excess irrigation (A15W1.2) significantly increased tomato yields by 190.90% compared with A0W0.8 (the combination of a low dissolved oxygen concentration and insufficient irrigation) because the irrigation water volume was the limiting condition affecting the benefits of the root length increase. The high dissolved oxygen concentration treatment significantly reduced the EC by 60.36%–92.31% and increased the bacterial community diversity by 4.08%–6.16% compared with CK; these aforementioned changes favored the increase in tomato yield. However, similar to the result of the moderate dissolved oxygen treatments, the tomato yields were significantly higher and among the highest of all treatments only when a high dissolved oxygen concentration was combined with sufficient irrigation or excess irrigation (A30W1 or A30W1.2) due to the limiting effect of the irrigation water volume. Therefore, accounting for the changes in EC, soil bacterial community, and tomato yields, A15W1.2, A30W1, and A30W1.2 are recommended for tomato production in mildly saline soils.
CheMento geht in die nächste Runde
Authors: Pereira Jaé Angela , Yasin Yasmin
Published: August 2023

Viele Wege führen in den Berufseinstieg – finde deinen im GDCh‐Mentoring‐Programm CheMento heraus. Jetzt bewerben!
Differences in pelvic floor muscle morphology and function between female runners with and without running‐induced stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Berube Marie‐Eve , McLean Linda
Published: August 2023

Objective

To investigate the differences in pelvic floor muscle (PFM) morphology and function between female runners with and without running‐induced stress urinary incontinence (RI‐SUI).

Design

This was a cross‐sectional, observational study.

Methods

Experienced female runners were recruited into two groups: runners who regularly experience RI‐SUI (n = 19) and runners who do not (n = 20). Active and passive pelvic floor muscle (PFM) properties were assessed using intravaginal dynamometry during maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) and during passive tissue elongation. The morphology of the urethra and PFMs was assessed using 2D and 3D transperineal ultrasound imaging. Independent t tests or Mann–Whitney U were used as appropriate to test group differences on all study outcomes, and Cohen's d effect sizes were calculated.

Results

The rate of force development during the MVC was significantly higher in participants reporting RI‐SUI (p ≤ 0.05) and conversely, significantly lower during passive elongation of the PFMs (p ≤ 0.05) compared to runners with no history of leakage. Concurrently, the extent of bladder neck elevation between rest and maximum voluntary activation was significantly higher among those with RI‐SUI compared to those without. Although not significant, small to moderate effect sizes were observed for other outcomes—active force outcomes measured during MVC tended to be higher in runners with RI‐SUI, while passive force outcomes measured during passive tissue elongation tended to be lower. The cross‐sectional area of the urethral wall and the area of the levator hiatus tended to be larger in runners with RI‐SUI compared to those without.

Conclusion

Runners who experience RI‐SUI demonstrate better PFM contractile function but lower passive support when compared to their continent counterparts.
Enhancement of vibrational characteristics of rotating CFRP composite tapered plates reinforced by graphene nanoparticles
Authors: George Manuel , Prasad Mattipally , Selvaraj Rajeshkumar , Sakthieswaran N. , Sivakumar J. , Al‐Mohaimeed Amal M. , Chen Tse‐Wei , Al‐Bahrani Mohammed , Capangpangan Rey Y. , Alguno Arnold C.
Published: August 2023

In the present study, the dynamic behavior of rotating carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite tapered plates reinforced with graphene nanoparticles has been investigated using a finite element (FE) formulation. The mechanical properties of CFRP laminates containing 0–0.5 wt% graphene nanoparticles were assessed using ASTM standard tests. The experimental dynamic analysis was conducted on CFRP and graphene reinforced CFRP composites under cantilever end conditions. The first‐order shear deformation theory (FSDT)‐based FE model was developed using MATLAB software to obtain the natural frequencies of the graphene reinforced CFRP plates. The validity of the FE results is compared with literature, and it shows excellent agreement for composite structures. Furthermore, parametric analysis is performed to explore the influence of wt% of graphene, rotating speed, setting angle, and ply thickness on the dynamic responses of graphene reinforced CFRP tapered plates.

Highlights

Effects of graphene reinforcement in CFRP composites are investigated.

The mechanical characteristics were evaluated using ASTM standards.

FSDT is employed to model the rotating tapered graphene‐CFRP plates.

Vibration behavior of graphene‐CFRP composites is studied experimentally.

Effects of various factors on the vibrations of the CFRP plates are studied.
Factors associated with late gestational age of diagnosis and/or delayed referral of fetuses with major structural malformations: A study in a tertiary care hospital in South India
Authors: Yadav Manisha , Gowda Mamatha , Chinta Navya , Deodhare Kirti , Murugesan Sneha
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the factors related to delayed diagnosis or referral of women with major congenital malformations in a tertiary care hospital in South India, with a specific emphasis on the socioeconomic and psychosocial aspects.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 107 pregnant women with confirmed fetal anomalies at Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected on factors related to the patient, physician, and healthcare system that could have contributed to the delay.

Results

In our study of 107 patients, 98.1% had at least one antenatal check‐up before 20 weeks. Among them, 75.2% (79/107) were advised to undergo a mid‐trimester anomaly scan, and 70.8% (56/79) actually underwent the scan. However, 62.5% (35/56) of those who had the scan performed at the appropriate time had undetected abnormalities. Retrospective analysis showed that 28.5% (10/35) of these anomalies could have been detected as early as 12–14 weeks of gestation. Additionally, 24.3% (26/107) of women were advised to undergo scans at or after 20 weeks and 4.7% (5/107) had anomalies detected during the scan but were unaware about the findings until subsequent visits. Inadequate healthcare professional training, busy schedules, lack of awareness, and communication gaps were identified as potential reasons for delayed diagnosis. Psychosocial factors such as denial, fear, emotional distress, and anxiety also influenced decision‐making and contributed to delayed medical care.

Conclusion

Addressing healthcare provider training, communication between the healthcare professionals and the patients, and psychosocial factors are essential to prevent delays and improve pregnancy management. Future interventions should focus on awareness, providing comprehensive information, and support for parents facing fetal anomalies.
Rapid response with good toleration of sirolimus for life‐threatening neonatal lymphatic malformations
Authors: Dong Shixiao , Li Li , Xu Jiaosheng , Han Zhonglong , Zheng Xia
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Lymphatic malformations (LMs) are rare vascular anomalies predominantly affecting infants, which can be debilitating or life‐threatening when complicated with intralesional bleeding or infection. Effective and safe management strategies are essential in such cases.

Case presentation

We report a case series involving four Chinese neonates with life‐threatening LMs, initially treated with oral sirolimus. All patients achieved rapid relief and sustained remission, using a lower sirolimus dosage than previously recommended. Furthermore, adverse events were rarely recorded during follow‐up.

Conclusion

Sirolimus can be considered a promising choice for neonates with intricate and life‐threatening LMs. Initiation with a reduced sirolimus dose is advisable.
Weld‐lines and its strength evaluation in injection molded parts: A review
Authors: Jadhav Ganesh , Gaval Vivek , Solanke Sachin , Divekar Mahesh , Darade Nandkishor , Satpute Ajay , Goutham G. P.
Published: August 2023

Injection molding manufacturing is immensely popular nowadays because of its excellent manufacturability for complex designs produced from a wide range of different engineering plastic materials. Weld‐line is a defect that arises in injection molding when two or more flow fronts collide. The weld‐lines are undesirable from both aesthetic and functional points of view and their effect is different for varied materials, process conditions, loadings, forms of weld‐line, etc. The presence of a weld‐line weakens components locally due to insufficient intermolecular diffusion, v‐notch formation, fiber anisotropy, insufficient process conditions, and so on. When a component is under load, crack propagation usually begins with a weak weld‐line area. Therefore, the designer should anticipate the presence of weld‐lines and their strength to avoid failure of components during operation. In this article, the review of published research work on weld‐line formation during injection molding has been summarized. The review focuses on the phenomenon of weld‐line formation, the type of weld‐lines, and the importance of weld‐line evaluations. The theoretical, experimental, and computational approaches to analyzing weld‐line and its strength are covered in detail. At last, methods for reducing weld‐lines and increasing the strength of weld‐line area have been discussed. This review also gathers data on weld‐line strength with respect to different materials.

Highlights

Details of weld‐line formation and its types.

Importance of weld‐line evaluation.

Methods of weld‐line strength evaluation.

Methods of reduction of the number of weld‐line and its effect.

Summary of weld‐line strength for different material.
The relationship between principal support, teacher professional identity, and teacher professional learning in China: Investigating gender differences
Authors: Qin Xinxin , Liu Shengnan
Published: August 2023

As an alternative concept of teacher professional development, teacher professional learning has attracted increasing research attention. This study explored the relationship between teacher gender, principal support, teacher professional identity, and teacher professional learning among 608 teachers in central and western regions of China. The results indicated that female teachers perceived higher professional identity and professional learning than male teachers. Principal support had a significant positive influence on teacher professional learning, with teacher professional identity playing a partial mediating role. Teacher gender moderated the mediation effect of teacher professional identity on teacher professional learning, and professional identity had a higher influence on professional learning among male than female teachers. Based on the findings, the practical implication was discussed.