bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of top management team diversity on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) reporting: Evidence from Sri Lanka
Authors: Weerasinghe Thanya , Samudrage Dileepa , Gunarathne Nuwan
Published: May 2023

Motivated by the limited attention given to the impact of top management teams on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this study sets out to identify the extent to which companies engage in SDG reporting and assess the impact of top management team diversity on SDG reporting based on the upper echelons theory. The data were collected by analyzing the sustainability reports of the listed entities over a three‐year period and conducting semistructured interviews. Findings show that the average disclosures related to SDGs are still at a deficient level and that top management team diversity does not have an impact on SDG reporting in Sri Lankan companies. The qualitative evidence shows that the existing corporate sustainability strategies have been aligned with SDGs, rather than being reformulated or designed to integrate with the SDG targets. Hence, in Sri Lanka, SDG reporting is limited by the superficial attention given to them in corporate strategies. This is a pioneering study that investigates the relationship between top management team diversity and SDG reporting using an explanatory sequential approach.
Surgical anatomy of the cerebellar tonsils: A cadaveric study
Authors: Shekhawat Devendra , Gupta Tulika , Singh Paramajeet , Sahni Daisy , Tubbs R. Shane , Gupta S. K.
Published: May 2023

Background

Knowledge of the normal anatomy of the cerebellar tonsils is a prerequisite in various surgeries of the posterior cranial fossa Clinical conditions, as the Chiari I malformations (CIM) alter the normal position of the cerebellar tonsils.

Objective

Therefore, we aim to better elucidate the surgical anatomy of and around the cerebellar tonsils in regard to the CIM.

Methods

Fifty formalin‐fixed adult cadavers injected with colored latex through vertebral arteries underwent craniotomy and durotomy to expose the cerebellar tonsils and related structures. The tonsils and their surrounding anatomy were then studied.

Results

Forty cerebellar tonsils were at or above the foramen magnum. Five specimens presented with CIM with the tonsils below (3–5 mm) the FM with a mean tonsillar decent of 7.9 ± 2.3 mm. Of the cadavers without CIM, in forty‐two cases, the thickness of the dura mater was within ±3SD ranges. In three cases, the dura mater was thinner at the CVJ and one case; the dura adhered tightly to the inner aspect of the occipital squama. In five CIM cadavers, the dura mater was markedly thicker at the CVJ. The PICA caudal loop was 5.9 ± 1.6 mm long. In CIM cases, the PICA loop was longer, nearer the dura, 1 mm below the superior border of the C1 posterior arch. The distances from the PICA loop were markedly reduced by 3 mm from the spinal accessory nerve and 2 mm from the first spinal nerve. The DN was significantly closer to the tonsillar peduncle in CIM cases.

Conclusion

These data are important for better understanding the intrinsic and extrinsic anatomy of the cerebellar tonsils in patients with and without CIM. Importantly, tonsillectomy/tonsillar coagulation must consider the close relationship of the dentate nucleus to the base of the cerebellar tonsil to avoid iatrogenic injury.
Benign‐malignant classification of pulmonary nodules by low‐dose spiral computerized tomography and clinical data with machine learning in opportunistic screening
Authors: Zheng Yansong , Dong Jing , Yang Xue , Shuai Ping , Li Yongli , Li Hailin , Dong Shengyong , Gong Yan , Liu Miao , Zeng Qiang
Published: May 2023

Background

Many people were found with pulmonary nodules during physical examinations. It is of great practical significance to discriminate benign and malignant nodules by using data mining technology.

Methods

The subjects' demographic data, baseline examination results, and annual follow‐up low‐dose spiral computerized tomography (LDCT) results were recorded. The findings from annual physical examinations of positive nodules, including highly suspicious nodules and clinically tentative benign nodules, was analyzed. The extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model was constructed and the Grid Search CV method was used to select the super parameters. External unit data were used as an external validation set to evaluate the generalization performance of the model.

Results

A total of 135,503 physical examinees were enrolled. Baseline testing found that 27,636 (20.40%) participants had clinically tentative benign nodules and 611 (0.45%) participants had highly suspicious nodules. The proportion of highly suspicious nodules in participants with negative baseline was about 0.12%–0.46%, which was lower than the baseline level except the follow‐up of >5 years. In the 27,636 participants with clinically tentative benign nodules, only in the first year of LDCT re‐examination was the proportion of highly suspicious nodules (1.40%) significantly greater than that of baseline screening (0.45%) (p < 0.001), and the proportion of highly suspicious nodules was not different between the baseline screening and other follow‐up years (p > 0.05). Furthermore, 322 cases with benign nodules and 196 patients with malignant nodules confirmed by surgery and pathology were compared. A model and the top 15 most important clinical variables were determined by XGBoost algorithm. The area under the curve (AUC) of the model was 0.76 [95% CI: 0.67–0.84], and the accuracy was 0.75. The sensitivity and specificity of the model under this threshold were 0.78 and 0.73, respectively. In the validation of model using external data, the AUC was 0.87 and the accuracy was 0.80. The sensitivity and specificity were 0.83 and 0.77, respectively.

Conclusions

It is important that pulmonary nodules could be more accurately identified at the first LDCT examination. A model with 15 variables which are routinely measured in the clinic could be helpful to distinguish benign and malignant nodules. It could help the radiological team issue a more accurate report; and it may guide the clinical team regarding LDCT follow‐up.
Molecular Docking and Dynamic Simulation to Identify α7nAChR Binding Affinity of Flavonoids for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Singh Sushma , Goyal Ahsas , Agrawal Neetu
Published: May 2023

Background: Alpha‐7‐nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR), a ligand‐gated ion channel is one of the important parts of the cholinergic pathway in the brain and has a remarkable role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). It has been documented that the modulation of α7nAChR with the help of phytoconstituent can be helpful in the treatment of AD. Method: The binding efficacy of fifty flavonoids was evaluated for human α7nAChR using molecular docking. The best two flavonoids shortlisted from docking analysis were then subjected to molecular dynamic simulations for 100 ns to analyze conformational binding stability with the target protein. Further, the druggability of the selected flavonoids was checked using in silico ADMET studies. Result: The top two flavonoids selected based on binding affinity toward the binding site of α7nAChR from molecular docking were amentoflavone (–9.1 kcal/mol) and gallocatechin (–8.8 kcal/mol). The molecular dynamics simulation revealed that amentoflavone and gallocatechin have a stable state during overall simulation time, lesser root mean deviation (RMSD) and root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), and complex of both compounds with protein is stable until 100 ns. Conclusion: The two flavonoids amentoflavone and gallocatechin are potential lead molecules that could be utilized as effective agonists of α7nAChR to combat Alzheimer's disease. Future in vitro and in vivo analyses are required to confirm their effectiveness.
A case of acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis following COVID‐19 infection and remdesivir
Authors: Kalantari Yasamin , Ghanadan Alireza , Etesami Ifa
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

We report a challenging AGEP case following COVID‐19 infection and a history of remdesivir use. Our study highlights the importance of considering history of COVID‐19 and remdesivir as possible causative factors when visiting new‐onset AGEP patients.
Multifocal hydatidosis with extensive involvement of the sacrum and the femoral head
Authors: Feki Afef , Abid Cyrine , Ben Djemaa Samar , Gassara Zouhour , Mariam Ezzeddine , Kallel Mohamed Hedi , Rim Akrout , Fourati Hela , Baklouti Sofien
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

Hydatidosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larval form of “Echinococcus granulosis.” Bone localization is rare even in endemic areas. We report an unusual case of an extensive hydatidosis of the right sacrum and femur with muscle involvement.

We report the case of a man, with a history of visceral hydatidosis, who developed after 14 years an extensive hydatidosis of the sacrum and femur with muscle involvement. The treatment of visceral hydatidosis was chemotherapy with albendazole for a long term. Conservative surgical treatment is considered for bone locations.
Ventricular tachycardia triggered by electroconvulsive therapy: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Su Samuel , Shah Pratik , Jassal Davinder S.
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

We report a case of a 71‐year‐old male with severe depression treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the operating room complicated by monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (MMVT). The clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of this catecholamine‐mediated cardiac event are reported with a brief review of the literature.
Artificial Arthropod Exoskeletons/Fungi Cell Walls Integrating Metal and Biocatalysts for Heterogeneous Synergistic Catalysis of Asymmetric Cascade Transformations
Authors: Deiana Luca , Rafi Abdolrahim A. , Tai Cheuk‐Wai , Bäckvall Jan‐E. , Córdova Armando
Published: May 2023

A novel and sustainable tandem‐catalysis system for asymmetric synthesis is disclosed, which is fabricated by bio‐inspired self‐assembly of artificial arthropod exoskeletons (AAEs) or artificial fungi cell walls (AFCWs) containing two different types of catalysts (enzyme and metal nanoparticles). The heterogeneous integrated enzyme/metal nanoparticle AAE/AFCW systems, which contain chitosan as the main structural component, co‐catalyze dynamic kinetic resolution of primary amines via a tandem racemization/enantioselective amidation reaction process to give the corresponding amides in high yields and excellent ee. The heterogeneous AAE/AFCW systems display successful heterogeneous synergistic catalysis at the surfaces since they can catalyze multiple reaction cycles without metal leaching. The use of natural‐based and biocompatible structural components makes the AAE/AFCW systems fully biodegradable and renewable, thus fulfilling important green chemistry requirements.
Sustainable Carrageenan/Nanocomposite Films Incorporated with Optimized Zingiber officinale Extracts for Active Packaging Systems
Authors: Subramaniam Sarmilaah Dewi , Wan Yahaya Wan Amnin , Mohd Azman Nurul Aini , Mohd Arshad Zatul Iffah , Basrawi Firdaus
Published: May 2023

Optimized Bentong ginger (BG) extract using ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE) was incorporated in hybrid carrageenan/nanocomposite biopolymers for active packaging films. The design of experiments based on central composite design was applied for the study of the operating parameters (amplitude, sonication time, and solvent concentration) of UAE in the recovery of phenolic compounds from BG. Optimized extracts were analyzed for the content of 6‐gingerols in liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and formulated in carrageenan/nanocellulose hybrid films for active packaging applications. The mechanical properties of the films and release behavior of antioxidant compounds into food simulants were investigated. The optimized UAE BG extract was found efficacious as an antioxidant agent in active packaging.
Ethylene Glycol Dry Reforming over La‐Co/Al2O3: Optimization and Regeneration Studies
Authors: Rajendran Yogesvaran , Abdulkadir Bashir Abubakar , Jun Lau Ngie , Miskan Siti Nurqurratulainie , Vo Dai-Viet N. , Lim Jun Wei , Setiabudi Herma Dina
Published: May 2023

3%La‐10%Co/Al2O3 catalyst was synthesized and catalytically optimized by using response surface methodology (RSM) for ethylene glycol dry reforming (EGDR). 3%La‐10%Co/Al2O3 showed excellent EGDR, whereby optimum performance (EG conversion of 80.43 %, CO2 conversion of 42.51 %, H2 yield of 76.41 %, and CO yield of 71.77 %) was attained under moderate reaction conditions (998 K, CO2 partial pressure of 15 kPa, and EG partial pressure of 23 kPa). The RSM model was statistically significant, and validation experiments showed a negligible discrepancy between the experimental and predicted values, demonstrating the validity and dependability of the model. The stability and regeneration studies evidenced the feasibility and catalytic stability of 3%La‐10%Co/Al2O3.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of a Library of Sulfonamide Analogs of Memantine to Target Glioblastoma
Authors: Philo John E. , Caudle Jenna D. , Moussa Reema N. , Kampmeyer Patrick M. , Hasin Tasfia R. , Seo David K. , Sheaff Robert J. , Lamar Angus A.
Published: May 2023

A library of 34 lipophilic sulfonamides based upon the memantine core has been synthesized to identify potential drug candidates to cross the blood‐brain barrier and target glioblastoma. The library was screened for in vitro activity against 4 mammalian cell lines, including U‐87 (glioblastoma). Additional synthetic variation of the active compounds has validated the importance of specific regions of the pharmacophore, with the sulfonamide functionality and S‐aryl unit displaying the most significant impact. In silico investigations suggest the active compounds might target DDR1 or RET proteins. The investigation has resulted in several compounds that warrant further development for lead optimization.
Assessment of the Acute Effects of 2C‐B vs. Psilocybin on Subjective Experience, Mood, and Cognition
Authors: Mallaroni Pablo , Mason Natasha L. , Reckweg Johannes T. , Paci Riccardo , Ritscher Sabrina , Toennes Stefan W. , Theunissen Eef L. , Kuypers Kim P.C. , Ramaekers Johannes G.
Published: May 2023

2,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐bromophenethylamine (2C‐B) is a hallucinogenic phenethylamine derived from mescaline. Observational and preclinical data have suggested it to be capable of producing both subjective and emotional effects on par with other classical psychedelics and entactogens. Whereas it is the most prevalently used novel serotonergic hallucinogen to date, it's acute effects and distinctions from classical progenitors have yet to be characterized in a controlled study. We assessed for the first time the immediate acute subjective, cognitive, and cardiovascular effects of 2C‐B (20 mg) in comparison to psilocybin (15 mg) and placebo in a within‐subjects, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of 22 healthy psychedelic‐experienced participants. 2C‐B elicited alterations of waking consciousness of a psychedelic nature, with dysphoria, subjective impairment, auditory alterations, and affective elements of ego dissolution largest under psilocybin. Participants demonstrated equivalent psychomotor slowing and spatial memory impairments under either compound compared with placebo, as indexed by the Digit Symbol Substitution Test, Tower of London, and Spatial Memory Task. Neither compound produced empathogenic effects on the Multifaceted Empathy Test. 2C‐B induced transient pressor effects to a similar degree as psilocybin. The duration of self‐reported effects of 2C‐B was shorter than that of psilocybin, largely resolving within 6 hours. Present findings support the categorization of 2C‐B as a psychedelic of moderate experiential depth at doses given. Tailored dose‐effect studies are needed to discern the pharmacokinetic dependency of 2C‐B's experiential overlaps.
On‐chip bias‐generating architecture for an automotive application with a wide input dynamic range
Authors: Deo Anupama , Patra Supratik , Maity Ashis , Patra Amit
Published: May 2023

This paper presents an on‐chip bias‐generating architecture for automotive applications with a wide input range of 3.8–36 V in a 0.18‐ m high‐voltage bipolar‐CMOS‐DMOS (BCD) process. The proposed architecture effectively manages high‐voltage stress issues with few high‐voltage devices optimizing the silicon area. The proposed bias‐generator comprising crude‐reference and crude‐regulator generates a preliminary low bias voltage for the bandgap‐reference circuit. An adaptive‐biased, with‐capacitor, low‐dropout regulator generates a well‐regulated core supply with low quiescent current and better stability over the wide input range. The adaptive biasing expands the unity gain frequency with increasing load enabling a fast‐transient response. The proposed LDO provides a 5‐V output voltage and a load current of 10  A to 20 mA from 5.5‐ to 36‐V supply with a 500‐mV dropout voltage consuming a very low quiescent current of 5  A. With 0‐ to 20‐mA load step and an output capacitor of 1  F, an undershoot of 40 mV and an overshoot of 55 mV are achieved.
Toward automated infrared spectral analysis in community drug checking
Authors: Gozdzialski Lea , Hutchison Abby , Wallace Bruce , Gill Chris , Hore Dennis
Published: May 2023

The body of knowledge surrounding infrared spectral analysis of drug mixtures continues to grow alongside the physical expansion of drug checking services. Technicians trained in the analysis of spectroscopic data are essential for reasons that go beyond the accuracy of the analytical results. Significant barriers faced by people who use drugs in engaging with drug checking services include the speed and accuracy of the results, and the availability and accessibility of the service. These barriers can be overcome by the automation of interpretations. A random forest model for the detection of two compounds, MDA and fluorofentanyl, was trained and optimized with drug samples acquired at a community drug checking site. This resulted in a 79% true positive and 100% true negative rate for MDA, and 61% true positive and 97% true negative rate for fluorofentanyl. The trained models were applied to selected drug samples to demonstrate a proposed workflow for interpreting and validating model predictions. The detection of MDA was demonstrated on three mixtures: (1) MDMA and MDA, (2) MDA and dimethylsulfone, and (3) fentanyl, etizolam, and benzocaine. The classification of fluorofentanyl was applied to a drug mixture containing fentanyl, fluorofentanyl, 4‐anilino‐N‐phenethylpiperidine, caffeine, and mannitol. Feature importance was calculated using shapely additive explanations to better explain the model predictions and k‐nearest neighbors was used for visual comparison to labelled training data. This is a step toward building appropriate trust in computer‐assisted interpretations in order to promote their use in a harm reduction context.
Psychometric properties of the Parent Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire
Authors: Drury Catherine R. , Hail Lisa , Rienecke Renee D. , Accurso Erin C. , Coelho Jennifer S. , Lock James , Le Grange Daniel , Loeb Katharine L.
Published: May 2023

Objective

To examine the psychometric properties of the Parent Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (PEDE‐Q), developed to improve eating disorder (ED) assessment among youth by including parents as informants.

Methods

A multi‐site, transdiagnostic sample of 355 adolescents with EDs completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) and their parents completed the PEDE‐Q.

Results

The internal consistencies of the PEDE‐Q subscales were on par with established EDE‐Q ranges (.73 to .90), both when examined using the original four‐factor EDE‐Q subscales and the seven‐item, three‐factor subscales of the brief EDE‐Q. Statistically significant medium‐ to large‐sized correlations and poor to moderate levels of agreement were found between the corresponding EDE‐Q and PEDE‐Q subscales. Receiver‐operator characteristic (ROC) curves showed that the PEDE‐Q had a statistically significant area under the curve (AUC) to maximize sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing full‐syndrome AN, whereas the EDE‐Q did not. Based on chi‐square analyses, the PEDE‐Q identified a statistically significantly greater number of AN cases than the EDE‐Q. The EDE‐Q yielded a BN diagnosis more frequently than the PEDE‐Q, although this difference was not statistically significant.

Discussion

Results suggest that the PEDE‐Q has good psychometric properties and provides incremental information that can aid in the assessment and diagnosis of adolescents with EDs, particularly those with AN.

Public significance

There exist complex challenges to identifying clinically significant eating disorders among youth. The PEDE‐Q is a questionnaire measure that improves eating disorder assessment among children and adolescents by asking parents to report on the symptoms and behaviors they have observed in their child and that youth may not fully disclose. The PEDE‐Q can aid in the diagnosis of adolescents with eating disorders, particularly those with anorexia nervosa.
Critical transitions and evolutionary hysteresis in movement: Habitat fragmentation can cause abrupt shifts in dispersal that are difficult to revert
Authors: de Jager Monique , Soons Merel
Published: May 2023

Under habitat fragmentation, plant species' survival hinges on the ability of individuals to disperse from one habitat patch to another. While there is evidence that severe habitat fragmentation leads to evolution of reduced dispersal ability and that such decreased mobility is generally detrimental for species' survival, it is unknown whether species adapt via a gradual loss in dispersal ability or via a sudden shift from frequent to infrequent dispersal between patches (i.e., a critical transition). Using both a spatially explicit deterministic and individual‐based stochastic model of hydrochorous seed dispersal, we show that a small increase in inter‐patch distance can generate an abrupt shift in plant seed dispersal strategy from long to short distances. Most importantly, we found that a substantial increase in connectivity between habitat fragments is required to reverse this loss of long‐distance dispersal, due to an evolutionary hysteresis effect. Our theory prompts for re‐consideration of the eco‐evolutionary consequences of habitat fragmentation as restoring habitat connectivity may require restoration of much higher connectivity levels than currently assumed.
Field‐programmable gate array acceleration of the Tersoff potential in LAMMPS
Authors: Deng Quan , Liu Qiang
Published: May 2023

Molecular dynamics simulation is a common method to help humans understand the microscopic world. The traditional general‐purpose high‐performance computing platforms are hindered by low computational and power efficiency, constraining the practical application of large‐scale and long‐time many‐body molecular dynamics simulations. In order to address these problems, a novel molecular dynamics accelerator for the Tersoff potential is designed based on field‐programmable gate array (FPGA) platforms, which enables the acceleration of LAMMPS using FPGAs. Firstly, an on‐the‐fly method is proposed to build neighbor lists and reduce storage usage. Besides, multilevel parallelizations are implemented to enable the accelerator to be flexibly deployed on FPGAs of different scales and achieve good performance. Finally, mathematical models of the accelerator are built, and a method for using the models to determine the optimal‐performance parameters is proposed. Experimental results show that, when tested on the Xilinx Alveo U200, the proposed accelerator achieves a performance of 9.51 ns/day for the Tersoff simulation in a 55,296‐atom system, which is a 2.00 increase in performance when compared to Intel I7‐8700K and 1.70 to NVIDIA Tesla K40c under the same test case. In addition, in terms of computational efficiency and power efficiency, the proposed accelerator achieves improvements of 2.00 and 7.19 compared to Intel I7‐8700K, and 4.33 and 2.11 compared to NVIDIA Titan Xp, respectively.
Health literacy in Pakistani migrants in Australia—An emerging and neglected culturally and linguistically diverse community
Authors: Saleem Ahsan , Steadman Kathryn J. , La Caze Adam
Published: May 2023

Issue Addressed

Pakistani migrants are one of the fastest‐growing culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in Australia, but there is currently a lack of information regarding their health literacy. This study aimed to investigate the health literacy of Pakistani migrants residing in Australia.

Methods

Using a cross‐sectional study design, health literacy was measured using the Urdu version of Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ). Descriptive statistics and linear regression were used to describe the health literacy profile of respondents and to examine its association with their demographic characteristics.

Results

The responses of 202 Pakistani migrants were included. The median age of the respondents was 36 years, 61.8% were males and 87.6% had a university education. The majority spoke Urdu at home and almost 80% were Australian permanent residents or citizens. Pakistani respondents scored high on HLQ domains; feeling understood by health providers (Scale 1), social support for health care (Scales 4), engaging with health care providers (Scale 6) and understanding health information (Scale 9). The respondents scored low on HLQ domains; having sufficient information (Scale 2), actively managing health (Scale 3), appraisal of health information (Scale 5), navigating the health care system (Scale 7) and ability to find information (Scale 8). In the regression model, university education and age were significantly associated with health literacy in almost all the domains, but the effect size was small for age. Speaking English at home and being a permanent resident were also associated with better health literacy in two to three HLQ domains.

Conclusions

Health literacy strengths and weaknesses of Pakistani migrants residing in Australia were identified. Health care providers and organisations may use these findings to tailor health information and services to better support health literacy in this community.

So What?

This study will inform future interventions to better support health literacy and reduce health disparities in Pakistani migrants residing in Australia.
Local gambling preferences and corporate tax avoidance: Evidence from China
Authors: Yin Hongying , Gong Xiaoyun , Quan Xiaofeng , Li Annie Y. S.
Published: May 2023

We document the positive effect of local gambling preferences on corporate tax avoidance using province‐level lottery sales data as a proxy for local gambling preferences. This result is robust to a battery of sensitivity tests. Furthermore, the positive effect of local gambling preferences on corporate tax avoidance is weaker (stronger) when firms face stronger (weaker) tax enforcement, have greater (less) institutional ownership, and followed by more (less) analysts. Last, we find that local gambling preferences influence corporate tax avoidance by shaping the risk attitudes of insiders (i.e. controlling shareholders and managers). Overall, we shed light on the real effect of local gambling preferences on corporate tax avoidance behaviour in emerging economies such as China.
Clinical progression of megacalycosis in a girl with a solitary kidney: The lesson learned
Authors: Galosi Andrea Benedetto , Nedbal Carlotta , Palantrani Vanessa , Ranghino Andrea , Mazzucchelli Roberta , Giulioni Carlo , Milanese Giulio , Castellani Daniele
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Megacalycosis is a rare disorder related to congenital underdevelopment of the renal papilla or structural defect of the renal calyces. Megacalycosis has a wide spectrum of clinical presentations ranging from simple variants without any significance on renal function to severe complications. Any prevention strategy is recommended yet since megacalycosis is mostly asymptomatic and usually discovered either accidentally or as result of its complications.

Case presentation

We observed megacalycosis progression in a young female with a single kidney toward progressive calyx dilatation for years, which ended in acute pyelonephritis. Conservative management, urinary drainage, and large‐spectrum antibiotics were unsuccessful and nephrectomy was required.

Conclusion

This rare case and literature review add evidence to identify prognostic factors to select patients with a high risk of complications (single kidney, bilateral disease, female gender, associated genetic syndromes, vesicoureteral reflux, and contralateral renal disorder). One o more factors should activate close monitoring and prophylactic therapy if needed.
Simplified methods for identifying subtypes of automatically maintained self‐injury
Authors: Hagopian Louis P. , Falligant John Michael , Frank‐Crawford Michelle A. , Yenokyan Gayane , Piersma Drew E. , Kaur Jasmeen
Published: May 2023

Subtypes of automatically maintained self‐injurious behavior (SIB) have been defined based on response patterns observed during the functional analysis, which are thought to reflect each subtype's distinct mechanisms. Current practice for identifying subtypes involves using structured criteria to identify whether SIB is automatically maintained, followed by the application of additional criteria to identify the subtype. We describe a series of studies directed at simplifying these methods to facilitate wider application of the subtyping model in research and practice. In Studies 1 and 2, we demonstrate the accuracy of modified criteria using the level of differentiation of SIB across the play and no‐interaction conditions at distinguishing between two subtypes (i.e., Subtypes 1 and 2). We then demonstrate visual analysis (without structured criteria) can accurately identify SIB as automatically maintained in Study 3, which can be used in combination with level of differentiation to enable application of the subtyping model in practice.
Survey of national practices for postgraduate year two critical care and emergency medicine pharmacy residency emergency response training
Authors: Philips Eli , Cycz Clare , Liu Ji T. , Eche I. Mary , Wong Adrian
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Medical emergency response within the hospital involves an interdisciplinary team, including pharmacists. Pharmacist involvement in these teams has increased over time due to published benefits of their involvement. Development of emergency response skills may start during pharmacy residency, although limited data suggest how this is best implemented.

Objectives

Limited data evaluate post‐graduate year 2 (PGY2) pharmacy resident training for emergency response, as well as PGY2 program values for this in screening/ranking candidates, which may help post‐graduate year one (PGY1) pharmacy residents identify residency programs that are a good fit for their career goals.

Methods

A list of PGY2 critical care (CC) and emergency medicine (EM) programs were identified. The questionnaire included program demographics, characteristics of PGY2 emergency response training, and PGY2 residency program values of PGY1 emergency response exposure for screening and ranking applicants for their programs. A Fisher's exact test was used to compare differences between CC and EM programs for these outcomes.

Results

A total of 85 complete responses were analyzed (response rate by all identified programs: CC = 36.4%; EM = 32.1%). Emergency response training was often with both core and longitudinal experiences (72.9%), although differed by type of program (p < 0.001). Both CC and EM programs considered PGY1 pharmacy resident exposure to emergency response in screening candidates (33.9% and 57.7%, respectively), as well as ranking candidates (22% and 38.5%, respectively). For CC programs, both Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support certification and quantity of PGY1 emergency response ranked as the most important characteristics, while EM programs ranked quantity as the most important.

Conclusion

The results of this survey indicate heterogeneity in PGY2 CC and EM emergency response training. PGY1 applicants for these programs should consider their experience with emergency response as a potential factor in identifying an appropriate program for their training.
Revealing electronic structure of nanostructured cobalt titanate via a combination of optical and electrochemical approaches toward water splitting and CO2 reduction
Authors: Moghiminia Shokufeh , Farsi Hossein , Zubkov Tykhon , Hosseini Seyyedamirhossein , Behforouz Mitra , Fahmideh Mahdizadeh Fariba , Barekati Neda Sadat , Moghadam Nazanin Gholamian , Irandoost Eshagh , Estes Justine , Li Zhihai
Published: May 2023

Background

The shortage of clean energy has become a serious problem due to the rapid development of societies and the increasing consumption of fossil fuels. Metal oxide semiconductor nanomaterials have been studied as photo‐/electrocatalysts for water splitting in terms of clean energy generation. Applications of semiconductors depend on their electronic structures. Therefore, elucidating the electronic diagram is essential for determining the specific applications of novel semiconductors.

Results

Herein, we demonstrate using a combination of UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and Mott–Schottky analysis via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for sketching the electronic diagram of nanostructured cobalt titanate (CoTiO3) prepared by the sol–gel method. UV–visible DRS studies reveal a band gap of 2.5 and 2.1 eV for direct and indirect transitions of prepared nanostructured materials, respectively. Mott–Schottky analysis shows a 0.8 V versus Ag/AgCl value for the flat band potential for CoTiO3. We further show the application of this diagram toward the interpretation of the electrochemical behavior of nanostructured CoTiO3 for electrochemical water splitting reactions and the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO2RR).

Conclusion

The presented electrochemical and photoelectrochemical studies demonstrate nanostructured CoTiO3 as an effective catalyst for electrochemical water oxidation and the eCO2RR. Moreover, our results provide valuable information for further investigation of water splitting and photovoltaic energy conversion. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Understanding the structural contributions to the functional properties of chestnut starch high in resistant starch type‐2
Authors: Guo Qiyong , Zheng Bo , Zeng Xixi , Chen Ling
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Chestnut has recently attracted attention because of its exceptional functional properties, which are mainly influenced by the structural properties of chestnut starch (CS). In this study, ten varieties of chestnut from the northern, southern, eastern, and western regions of China were selected, and their functional properties, including thermal properties, pasting properties, in vitro digestibility, and multi‐scale structural characteristics were characterized. The relationship between structure and functional properties was clarified.

RESULTS

In the varieties that were studied, the pasting temperature of CS was in the range of 67.2–75.2 °C and the pastes displayed diverse viscosity characteristics. Slowly digestible starch (SDS), and resistant starch (RS) of CS were in the range of 17.17–28.78% and 61.19–76.10%, respectively. Chestnut starch from north‐eastern China exhibited the highest RS content of 74.43–76.10%. Structural correlation analysis revealed that smaller size distribution, fewer B2 chains, and thinner lamellae thickness contributed to higher RS content. Meanwhile, CS with smaller granules, more B2 chains, and thicker amorphous lamellae displayed lower peak viscosities, stronger resistance to shear, and higher thermal stability.

CONCLUSION

Overall, this study clarified the relationship between the functional properties and the multi‐scale structure of CS, revealing the structural contributions to its high RS content. These findings provide significant information and basic data for use in the creation of nutritional chestnut food. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Polyaniline‐co‐polyindole functionalized magnetic porous carbon derived from MIL‐53(Fe) for separation/enrichment of nitrophenols pollutants before determination with high‐performance liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet detection
Authors: Barzin Mahnaz , Pooladi Mohsen
Published: May 2023

Herein, a novel polyaniline‐co‐polyindole functionalized magnetic porous carbon derived from MIL‐53(Fe) was prepared and employed as an excellent nano‐adsorbent to preconcentrate trace amounts of nitro‐phenols in water and wastewater samples. Briefly, magnetic MIL‐53(Fe) was synthesized by the addition of magnetite nanoparticles, terephthalic acid, and FeCl3 to the reaction medium. The magnetic MIL‐53(Fe) was pyrolyzed under nitrogen protection to obtain a magnetic porous carbon nanocomposite, and finally, the nanomaterial was functionalized with polyaniline‐co‐polyindole via oxidation polymerization. The obtained nano‐adsorbent was characterized via X‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, and transmission and scanning electron microscopies. After that, the fabricated nano‐material was utilized as an excellent nano‐adsorbent for the preconcentration of trace nitro‐phenols (2‐nitrophenol, 4‐nitrophenol, and 2,4‐dinitrophenol) in environmental water, and wastewater samples. The detection limits were obtained from 0.1 to 0.15 μg/L after performing the optimization process. The new method was in the range of 0.4–300 μg/L. The proposed method exhibited a good precision from 3.2% to 9.6% for within‐day assay, and 5.2%–13.2% for between‐day assay at three concentration levels (1, 50, and 250 μg/L). Eventually, this method was utilized to preconcentrate/determine the target analytes in three water, and wastewater samples, satisfactory (relative standard deviations, 5.4%–9.3%; relative recovery, 88%–109%).
Terror leaves adolescents behind: Identifying risk and protective factors for high‐school completion among survivors of terrorism
Authors: Strøm Ida F. , Dyb Grete , Wentzel‐Larsen Tore , Stene Lise Eilin , Schultz Jon‐Håkon , Stensland Synne
Published: May 2023

Terror exposure increases the risk of somatic and psychological health problems in survivors. Yet, knowledge of how such exposure affects survivors’ ability to stay in school is lacking. This study examined whether exposure to the 2011 Utøya terrorist attack in Norway impacted survivors’ ability to complete high school. Further, it aimed to identify important peri‐ and posttraumatic risk and protective factors. Interview data from the Utøya study, collected 4–5 months postterror, were linked to individual educational registry data for 265 survivors. Chi‐square tests and ordinal logistic regression analyses were used to examine (a) high school completion among younger survivors (n = 185, age range: 13–18 years, 52.4% female) compared to both older survivors (i.e., who had the possibility of completing high school before the terror attacks; n = 80, age range: 19–21 years, 40.0% female) and the national average and (b) associations between high school completion and physical injury, posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), somatic symptoms, and social support among younger survivors. Younger survivors were significantly less likely to complete high school on time. Among younger adolescents, physical injury, aOR = 0.36, 95% CI [0.16, 0.81]; higher‐level PTSS, aOR = 0.54, 95% CI [0.33, 0.88]; and somatic symptoms, aOR = 0.51, 95% CI [0.29, 0.91], lowered the likelihood of on‐time completion. Terror exposure in adolescence adversely affects long‐term educational functioning in young survivors, which can severely hamper their future prospects. These findings reinforce the need for trauma‐sensitive teaching and educator‐provided support for adolescents exposed to trauma.
Loss of Human Leukocyte Antigen and Immune Escape in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Morris Luc G.T.
Published: May 2023

Objectives/Hypothesis

Cancer cells evade recognition by the immune system to survive. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by high levels of immune infiltration and mutation‐associated neoantigens; therefore, immune evasion is likely to be an important mechanism in HNSCC tumorigenesis and progression. A commonly employed mechanism of immune evasion is downregulation of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) or loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in tumor cells. The objective of this study was to integrate multi‐dimensional genomic and transcriptomic data from HNSCC tumors to better understand the clinical and immunologic implications of HLA LOH.

Study type/Design

Cross‐sectional integrated clinical and genomic analysis.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing and RNA‐sequencing data from 522 tumors profiled in The Cancer Genome Atlas HNSCC cohort were analyzed and integrated with secondary analyses including immune cell deconvolution data. Associations were analyzed with categorical hypothesis testing and multivariable logistic and Cox regression.

Results

HLA LOH was a prevalent event that was identified in 53% of HNSCC tumors; in many cases, more than one class I HLA gene was targeted for LOH. HLA LOH was more common in advanced‐stage tumors. Tumors with somatic HLA LOH had tumor microenvironments defined by decreased lymphocyte and T cell infiltration.

Conclusions

HLA LOH is one of the most prevalent genetic alterations in HNSCC, and is associated with a cold immune microenvironment, suggesting that HLA LOH is a means of immune evasion. It may have value as a predictive biomarker or potential as a cancer cell‐specific therapeutic target.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:160–165, 2024
Concurrent Validity of the IOPI and Tongueometer Orofacial Strength Measurement Devices
Authors: Curtis James A. , Mocchetti Valentina , Rameau Anaïs
Published: May 2023

Objective(s)

This study examined the concurrent validity of two orofacial strength manometers: (1) the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) – the current, gold standard orofacial manometer; and (2) the Tongueometer – a newly‐available, lower cost, orofacial manometer.

Methods

This study compared IOPI and Tongueometer pressure readings across three experimental conditions. Experiment 1 compared full setup (manometer + tongue bulb) pressure readings between the IOPI and Tongueometer. Experiment 2 compared IOPI tongue bulb and Tongueometer tongue bulb pressure readings, while controlling for manometer. Experiment 3 compared IOPI manometer and Tongueometer manometer pressure readings, while controlling for tongue bulb. Pressures were applied manually within a laboratory setting. Lin's concordance correlation (ρc) was used to calculate level of agreement, with ρc interpreted as ‘poor’ if <0.90, ‘moderate’ if 0.90 to <0.95, ‘substantial’ if 0.95 to <0.99, and ‘excellent’ if ≥0.99.

Results

539 trials were analyzed. There was a median absolute difference of 2.4 kPa in pressure readings between the IOPI and Tongueometer full setups (manometer + tongue bulb). Correlations revealed substantial agreement between IOPI and Tongueometer full setups (experiment 1: n = 292; ρc = 0.986), tongue bulbs (experiment 2: n = 146; ρc = 0.987–0.992), and manometers (experiment 3: n = 101; ρc = 0.970).

Conclusions

Differences in pressures were consistently observed between the Tongueometer and IOPI. Despite these differences, substantial agreement was present. These data suggest the Tongueometer may be a valid, lower cost alternative to the IOPI for objectively assessing orofacial strength in clinical practice.

Level of Evidence

Level 2 Laryngoscope, 133:3123–3131, 2023
Residual effects of pipeline construction on agricultural soils of the Canadian prairie
Authors: Whitson Ivan Richard
Published: May 2023

The return to equivalent capability was evaluated on a >1000 km oil and gas pipeline corridor on the western Canadian prairies. Resource constraints limited this first phase of sampling to soils more likely damaged by disturbance. Three pipelines were selected to span a 55‐year period of construction. Data were collected from four transects established within each of six randomly chosen quarter sections (each 65 hectares) that included reference sites. Laboratory analysis provided data for organic carbon, pH, calcium carbonate equivalent, sodicity, salinity, and particle size distribution. Field procedures were used to obtain data for topsoil thickness, bulk density, aggregate size distribution, and carbonate distribution. The Canadian Land Suitability Rating System was employed to evaluate and compare the land capability (LSRS rating) of three pipelines to that of adjacent reference capability. Pipeline‐reference differences were detected in the topsoil for soil organic carbon (83% of reference), calcium carbonate equivalent (62% higher), and pH (0.4 units higher), and in the subsoil for bulk density (2% higher) and electrical conductivity (a fivefold increase). Carbonates were observed more frequently on the pipelines than on references. Soil organic carbon increased and electrical conductivity decreased with time since construction. The mode of land capability was class 4 on the corridor and class 3 on references. Residual effects remained. Neither soil conservation and reclamation practices, nor natural recovery had yet achieved equivalent capability for the target soil group, representing 17% of the extent of the corridor.
Factors regulating the concentration of particulate iodine in coastal seawater
Authors: Satoh Yuhi , Otosaka Shigeyoshi , Suzuki Takashi , Nakanishi Takahiro
Published: May 2023

To investigate the factors regulating the concentration of particulate iodine (PI) in seawater, it was measured in two Pacific coastal areas adjacent to Japan (offshore Aomori and offshore Fukushima) in two seasons (May and October) along with parameters such as particulate organic carbon (POC) and nitrogen (PON), dissolved iodine (DI), and phytoplankton pigments. The observed PI concentrations ranged from 0.0068 to 2.2 nmol L−1, with uncertain seasonal and regional differences. The atomic ratio of PI to POC (I/C) ranged from 4.4 × 10−7 to 1.1 × 10−4, in line with previous studies on marine phytoplankton, although the lower part of the range of the I/C in this study was found to be somewhat lower compared to the previous studies. The dataset was divided in three groups namely, lower (Group A), average (Group B), and higher (Group C) I/C because the I/C is an indicator of the accumulation efficiency of PI in particles in seawater and POC is the main carrier of PI. Based on the observed POC concentrations, the atomic ratio of POC to PON (C/N), and the ratio of carbon derived from chlorophyll a to POC, the three groups were characterized by phytoplanktonic physiological states as highly productive, steady, and senescent states for Groups A, B, and C, respectively. Based on the finding that PI production is associated with the phytoplankton physiological state, the seasonal and regional differences in PI concentration and I/C in the observation areas were consistently explained. Finally, we suggest that the phytoplanktonic physiological state is one of the vital factors regulating the PI concentration in seawater.