bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling of snow interception on a Japanese cedar canopy based on weighing tree experiment in a warm winter region
Authors: Katsushima Takafumi , Kato Akio , Aiura Hideharu , Nanko Kazuki , Suzuki Satoru , Takeuchi Yukari , Murakami Shigeki
Published: June 2023

Snow interception by tree canopy affects the water and energy budgets. Several snow interception models have been proposed to estimate the temporal change of intercepted snow on the tree canopy from meteorological data. However, most models are based on a few observational results at limited sites or some conceptual understandings and assumptions; they still need more observational evidence and more detailed descriptions in the parameterization model for snow accumulation and snow unloading response to various meteorological conditions. A weighing tree experiment that measures the intercepted snow on the cut Japanese cedar trees was conducted in Tokamachi, Japan, to investigate the relationship between meteorological conditions and the change of intercepted snow. The results showed that the interception efficiency, which shows the ratio of intercepted snow to the total precipitation, increased with increasing air temperature in the range from −4.2 to 0°C due to increased adhesion and cohesion of snow. The maximum interception capacity was not present in observations such as an air temperature range. The unloading of intercepted snow from the canopy induced by snowmelt was related to air temperature, solar radiation, and intercepted snow amount. The snow unloading caused by wind‐blowing intercepted snow off the tree, started to develop at wind speeds exceeding 0.8 m s−1. The wind‐induced snow unloading rate coefficient increased as the wind speed increased. This study proposed a new parameterization model of snow interception based on these observations. It is the only snow interception model to use solar radiation in the snow unloading parameterization. It found that simulated and observed temporal changes of intercepted snow correlated well. Nevertheless, there were significant errors between the simulated and observed intercepted snow on several snowfall events because the model could not accurately assess the occurrence of snow unloading due to snowmelt.
Proton Transfer Reactions from N2H+ and ArH+ to Small Molecules
Authors: Münst Maximilian G. , Barwa Erik , Ončák Milan , Beyer Martin K.
Published: June 2023

Proton transfer reactions (PTR) are important for chemical ionization, especially in trace gas analysis in air. In an effort to extend their application to the analysis of high‐purity inert gases, we studied PTR of N2H+ and ArH+ with various reaction gases, viz. O2, N2, CH4, CO2, NO2, H2O and CH3OH. Oxygen, nitrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, and water undergo non‐dissociative proton transfer, where the original molecule remains intact. PTR to nitrogen dioxide leads to NO+ with release of neutral OH⋅. While PTR from N2H+ to methanol exclusively yields protonated methanol, the reaction with ArH+ exhibits dissociative proton transfer, due to its higher exothermicity. Products include methenium, protonated formaldehyde, and protonated methanol. The latter undergoes a slow secondary reaction to form protonated dimethyl ether. Within error limits, most reactions proceed at or close to collision rate. Quantum chemical calculations provide energetics and reaction pathways. In such highly exothermic proton transfer reactions, identification and quantification of trace compounds require detailed understanding of the fragmentation pathways and branching ratios.
The Queen of Quorum Sensing: Scientist, Bacterial Linguist, Professor, Mentor
Authors: van Kessel Julia C. , Ng Wai‐Leung , Xavier Karina B.
Published: June 2023

Bonnie L. Bassler, Ph.D. is the 2022 recipient of the Wolf Prize in Chemistry, a highly honored, prestigious award given to the world's foremost scientists. Among her colleagues, students, and trainees, Bonnie is known for her innate curiosity, shrewd mind, and exuberant personality that collectively distinguish her in the scientific world. Those of us that have been taught by Bonnie – whether in the lab, the classroom, or at her unique seminars – have learned much about communication and coordination by bacteria through chemical language. We describe here our collective journeys with Bonnie, and how these have shaped our careers and perspectives in science, as well as, how in our opinion Bonnie's work and personality has inspired researchers across disciplines to become interested in Bacterial Chemical Communication.
A Saudi multicenter experience on therapeutic plasma exchange for patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: A call for national registry
Authors: Radhwi Osman , Badawi Maha A. , Almarzouki Adel , Al‐Ayoubi Fakhr , ElGohary Ghada , Asfina Kazi Nur , Basendwah Abdulrahim Mohammed , Alhazmi Iman Ayed , Almahasnah Eiman A. , AlBahrani Ahmed , Raizah Abdulrahman Al , Yahya Ayel , Alshahrani Khadeja , Hindawi Salwa
Published: June 2023

Background

The improvement in the clinical care for patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is evolving, and many efforts are being put to standardize it. Here, we aimed to assess the provided care at a national level and identify deficiencies.

Methods

A national Saudi retrospective descriptive study was carried out at six tertiary referral centers and included all patients who underwent therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) for the diagnosis of TTP between May 2005, and July 2022. Collected information included demographic data, clinical features on presentation, and the results of laboratory investigations at admission and discharge. In addition, the number of TPE sessions, days till the first session of TPE, usage of immunological agents, and clinical outcomes were all collected.

Results

One hundred patients were enrolled, predominantly female (56%). The mean age was 36.8 years. At diagnosis, 53% of patients showed neurological involvement. The mean platelet count at presentation was 21 × 109/L. All patients had anemia (mean hematocrit 24.2%). Schistocytes were present in the peripheral blood film of all patients. The mean number of TPE rounds was 13 ± 9.3, and the mean days to start TPE since admission for the first episode was 2.5 days. ADAMTS13 level was measured in 48% of patients and was significantly low in 77% of them. Assessing for clinical TTP scores, 83%, 1000%, 64% of eligible patients had an intermediate/high PLASMIC, FRENCH, and Bentley scores, respectively. Caplacizumab was used on only one patient, and rituximab was administered to 37% of patients. A complete response for the first episode was achieved in 78% of patients. The overall mortality rate was 25%. Neither time to TPE, the use of rituximab or steroid affected survival.

Conclusions

Our study shows an excellent response to TPE with a survival rate approximate to the reported international literature. We observed a deficiency in using validated scoring systems in addition to confirming the disease by ADAMTS13 testing. This emphasizes the need for a national registry to facilitate proper diagnosis and management of this rare disorder.
Challenges in Conducting Therapeutic Trials in Pregnancy: Emphasizing Recent Lessons Learned
Authors: Bank Tracy Caroline , Stika Catherine S. , Venkataramanan Raman , Field Christine , Costantine Maged M.
Published: June 2023

Pregnant people have traditionally been excluded from therapeutic research by restrictions intended for fetal protection. Despite a movement toward inclusion, concerns for the feasibility and safety of including pregnant people in studies continue to limit this research. This article reviews the history of research guidelines in pregnancy and illustrates ongoing challenges, as seen in the development of vaccines and therapies during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and investigation of statins for preeclampsia prevention. It explores new approaches that may be used to improve therapeutic research in pregnancy. A major cultural shift is needed to balance potential maternal and/or fetal risks with potential benefits from participation in research, as well as harm from withholding treatment or providing one that is not evidence‐based. Finally, it is important to honor maternal autonomy in decision‐making regarding participation in clinical trials.
Clinical Lactation Studies of Neuropsychiatric Medications: Clinical Pharmacology and Labeling Considerations
Authors: Nallani Srikanth C. , Baisden Kristie , Dinatale Miriam , Basham Lisa , Kwatra Deep , Yao Lynne
Published: June 2023

The availability of clinical pharmacology and safety data regarding the use of prescription medications in pregnant and lactating individuals has been historically limited, despite significant efforts to improve the quantity and quality of the information in labeling. The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule took effect on June 30, 2015, and updated information in labeling to more clearly describe available data to assist health care providers in counseling pregnant and lactating individuals. Additionally, the FDA published a revised draft guidance, “Clinical Lactation Studies: Considerations for Study Design,” to provide pharmaceutical companies and investigators with information about how and when to conduct lactation studies. Clinical pharmacology information derived from lactation studies is important in determining the presence of medications in breast milk and counseling lactating individuals regarding the potential of medication exposure in the breast milk and its attendant risks to the breastfed infant. Examples of Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule labeling changes that resulted from dedicated clinical lactation studies for certain neuropsychiatric medications are described in this publication. These medications are discussed because neuropsychiatric conditions commonly affect women of reproductive potential, including lactating individuals. As the FDA guidance and these studies illustrate, bioanalytical method validation, study design, and data analysis considerations are essential for obtaining quality lactation data. Well‐designed clinical lactation studies play an important role in informing product labeling that ultimately is useful to health care providers in making prescribing decisions with lactating individuals.
Menhaden fish oil encapsulation by spray drying process: influence of different biopolymer materials, inlet air temperature and emulsion ratios
Authors: Hashim Nurmaryam Aini , Mudalip Siti Kholijah Abdul , Man Rohaida Che , Sulaiman Siti Zubaidah
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Incorporating fish oils into commonly consumed foods is an emerging technique for increasing the daily intake of omega‐3 fatty acid. However, the high vulnerability of fish oil towards oxidative deterioration reduces shelf life stability. Microencapsulation by spray drying with different combinations of biopolymers and other parameters may provide a solution by preventing further oxidation of fish oil and permitting its delivery to food items. This study emphasised the influence of developed biopolymer materials (maltodextrin, maltodextrin + gum arabic, maltodextrin + starch, maltodextrin + whey protein isolates and maltodextrin + sodium caseinate) for emulsion formulation, inlet air temperature (160, 170, 180, 190 and 200 °C) and emulsion ratios (15, 20, 25, 30 and 35%) on the physicochemical properties of powdered menhaden fish oil by spray drying technique.

RESULTS

Microencapsulated menhaden fish oil was evaluated for its moisture content, size distribution, microcapsule efficiency, peroxide value, free fatty acid, acid value and morphological structure. It was observed that the coating materials of maltodextrin + whey protein isolates gave the lowest moisture content and peroxide value of 4.410% and 4.031 mEq kg−1, respectively. The morphological images showed a smooth surface with no cracks and minimal shrinkage, indicating lower permeability to gases and effectively protecting the oil against deterioration.

CONCLUSION

The spray drying procedure using maltodextrin + whey protein isolates at an inlet air temperature 190 °C and emulsion ratio of 30% successfully produced fish oil microcapsules with improved properties. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Transvaginal ultrasound versus magnetic resonance imaging for preoperative assessment of myometrial infiltration in patients with low‐grade endometrioid endometrial cancer: A systematic review and head‐to‐head meta‐analysis
Authors: Tameish Sara , Florez Natalia , Vidal Juan Ramón Pérez , Chen Hui , Vara Julio , Alcázar Juan Luis
Published: June 2023

Purpose

We aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) for detecting myometrial invasion (MI) in patients with low‐grade endometrioid endometrial carcinoma.

Methods

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE (Pubmed), Web of Science, Embase and Scopus (from January 1990 to December 2022) was performed for articles comparing TVS and MRI in the evaluation of myometrial infiltration in low‐grade (grade 1 or 2) endometrioid endometrial carcinoma in the same group of patients. We used QUADAS‐2 tool for assessing the risk of bias of studies.

Results

We found 104 citations in our extensive research. Four articles were ultimately included in the meta‐analysis, after excluding 100 reports. All articles were considered low risk of bias in most of the domains assessed in QUADAS‐2. We observed that pooled sensitivity and specificity for detecting deep MI were 65% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 54%–75%) and 85% (95% CI = 79%–89%) for MRI, and 71% (95% CI = 63%–78%) and 76% (95% CI = 67%–83%) for TVS, respectively. No statistical differences were found between both imaging techniques (p > 0.05). We observed low heterogeneity for sensitivity and high for specificity regarding TVS; and moderate for both sensitivity and specificity in case of MRI.

Conclusions

The diagnostic performance of TVS and MRI for the evaluation of deep MI in women with low‐grade endometrioid endometrial cancer is similar. However, further research is needed as the number of studies is scanty.
Supraorbital Rim and Roof Reconstruction with Vascularized Fascia Lata and Autogenous Rib Graft
Authors: Liu Sara W. , Frost Ariel , Fritz Michael A.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Describe a novel technique for reconstruction of complex defects involving supraorbital rim and orbital roof.

Methods

Retrospective chart review and description of surgical technique.

Results

Four patients underwent tumor resection with neurosurgery (2 intraosseous hemangioma, 1 meningioma, and 1 ossifying fibroma), with mean tumor size of 42.6 cubic centimeters on preoperative imaging. All defects involved supraorbital rim and orbital roof. Patients were reconstructed with autogenous osseous rib graft for structure and contour and anterolateral thigh fascia lata (ALTFL) free flap to provide robust vascularity to rib bone and as a barrier between skull base dura and the orbit and/or sinonasal cavities. Two patients underwent resection and reconstruction using minimal access incisions, and two underwent major cranial and skull base resections. All flaps are vascularized via superficial temporal vessels. On postoperative follow‐up (mean 33.5 months, range 8–48), all patients report no vision change or diplopia, with excellent contour symmetry to contralateral orbit. Follow‐up imaging (mean 29.5 months, range 3–48) demonstrated maintained orbital volume and retention of rib bone graft compared to immediate postoperative imaging. There were no complications related to graft use. Minor complications include 1 patient with cerebrospinal fluid leak managed with lumbar drain placement and 1 patient with mild enophthalmos at 7‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

We describe a series of patients who underwent a novel technique for reconstruction of complex defects involving supraorbital rim and orbital roof with autogenous osseous rib and vascularized ALTFL‐free flap with excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes. This can be accomplished using minimal access techniques to minimize patient morbidity.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:654–658, 2024
Trends in Endoscopic and Microscopic Approaches to Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery in the US
Authors: Naimi Bita , Duffy Alexander , Garvey Emily , Urdang Zachary , Farquhar Douglas , Kelly Patrick , Farrell Christopher , Rabinowitz Mindy , Rosen Marc , Toskala Elina , Evans James , Nyquist Gurston
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Among the transsphenoidal (TSS) approaches to pituitary tumors, the microscopic approach (MA) has historically been the predominant technique with the increasing adoption of the endoscopic approach (EA). This study investigates national trends in TSS approaches and postoperative outcomes for MA and EA through 2021.

Methods

The TriNetX database was queried for patients undergoing TSS (MA and EA) between 2010 and 2021. Data were collected on demographics, geographic distribution of surgical centers, postoperative complications, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRT), repeat surgery, and postoperative emergency department (ED) visits.

Results

8644 TSS cases were queried between 2010 and 2021. MA rates were highest until 2013 when rates of EA (52%) surpassed MA (48%) and continued to increase through 2021 (81%). From 2010 to 2015 EA had higher odds of a postoperative CSF leak (OR 3.40) and diabetes insipidus (DI (OR 2.30)) versus MA (p < 0.05); from 2016 to 2021 differences were not significant. Although there was no significant difference among approaches from 2010 to 2015 for syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), hyponatremia, or bacterial meningitis, from 2016 to 2021 EA had lower odds of SIADH (OR 0.54) and hyponatremia (OR 0.71), and higher odds of meningitis (OR 1.79) versus MA (p < 0.05). EA had higher odds of additional surgery (either EA or MA) after initial surgery from 2010 to 2021. From 2010 to 2015 EA had lower odds of postoperative SRT compared to MA, whereas in 2016–2021 there was no statistical difference among approaches.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates increasing EA adoption for TSS in the United States since 2013. Complication rates have overall improved for EA compared to MA, potentially as a result of improving surgeon familiarity and experience.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:2135–2140, 2023
Prognostic value of absolute lymphocyte count in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shah Rema , Liu Christina , Shah Hemali P. , Judson Benjamin L.
Published: June 2023

Objective(s)

Absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) has been shown to be a prognostic indicator in other solid tumors. Given this, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of ALC in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

Using our institutional tumor registry data, we identified patients ≥18 years old who were diagnosed with OSCC between 2012 and 2018. Preoperative ALC values within 30 days of surgery were collected through retrospective chart review. American Joint Committee on Cancer, 7th‐edition best stage was used to categorize cancers as early stage (stages 1 and 2) or late‐stage (stages 3 and 4). Primary outcomes were likelihood of recurrence and survival rates after 3 years.

Results

Of the 412 patients identified, 262 patients had available ALC data and met inclusion criteria. Early stage cancer patients who had lymphopenia did not have any significant difference in their rate of death ([OR], 1.71, CI: 0.54–5.45, p = .36) or likelihood recurrence ([OR], 0.60, CI: 0.06–5.87, p = .66) after controlling for age, tobacco use, alcohol use, positive margins, and adjuvant therapy. Late‐stage cancer patients who had lymphopenia also showed no difference in their rate of death ([OR], 2.74, CI: 0.65–11.6, p = .17) or likelihood of recurrence ([OR], 0.38, CI: 0.04–3.36, p = .38).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study evaluates the prognostic value of ALC in oral cavity cancers. Our findings demonstrate that pretreatment ALC is not significantly associated with recurrence and survival outcomes patients with OSCC.

Level of Evidence

III

Lay Summary

Absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) has been associated with prognosis in several cancers. We found that preoperative ALC was not associated with likelihood of survival or recurrence in patients with early stage or late‐stage oral cavity cancer.
Molecular Architecture of Multiblock Copolymers Synthesized by the Chain Shuttling Technology
Authors: Urciuoli Gaia , Ruiz de Ballesteros Odda , Auriemma Finizia
Published: June 2023

Recent advances in the characterization of ethylene/1‐octene‐based statistical multiblock copolymers (MBCs) synthesized via chain shuttling copolymerization are illustrated. The Perspective focuses on the peculiarity of MBC systems that consists in the nonuniform chain architecture of these intriguing systems due to compositional heterogeneity occurring at inter‐ and intra‐chain level. In the first part, the effect of dispersity on the phase behavior and properties of MBCs and block copolymers in general is discussed along with the consequences of crystallization of one of the blocks on microphase separation, domain spacing, and morphology. In the second part, the main results achieved in the elucidation of details of the chain microstructure in terms of average length of the blocks and block length distribution are presented. It is shown that solvent and thermal fractionation techniques, coupled with other techniques such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) represent powerful tools to elucidate the inter‐ and intra‐chain heterogeneous composition of the MBCs. Guidelines on how to establish structure/properties relationships for such polydisperse systems are also provided.
The Emergence and Progression of Motor Dysfunction in Individuals at Risk of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Simonet Cristina , Mahlknecht Philipp , Marini Kathrin , Seppi Klaus , Gill Aneet , Bestwick Jonathan P. , Lees Andrew J. , Giovannoni Gavin , Schrag Anette , Noyce Alastair J.
Published: June 2023

Background

PREDICT‐PD is a United Kingdom population‐based study aiming to stratify individuals for future Parkinson's disease (PD) using a risk algorithm.

Methods

A randomly selected, representative sample of participants in PREDICT‐PD were examined using several motor assessments, including the motor section of the Movement Disorder Society‐Sponsored Revision of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS‐UPDRS)‐III, at baseline (2012) and after an average of 6 years of follow‐up. We checked for new PD diagnoses in participants seen at baseline and examined the association between risk scores and incident sub‐threshold parkinsonism, motor decline (increasing ≥5 points in MDS‐UPDRS‐III) and single motor domains in the MDS‐UPDRS‐III. We replicated analyses in two independent datasets (Bruneck and Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative [PPMI]).

Results

After 6 years of follow‐up, the PREDICT‐PD higher‐risk group (n = 33) had a greater motor decline compared with the lower‐risk group (n = 95) (30% vs. 12.5%, P = 0.031). Two participants (both considered higher risk at baseline) were given a diagnosis of PD during follow‐up, with motor signs emerging between 2 and 5 years before diagnosis. A meta‐analysis of data from PREDICT‐PD, Bruneck, and PPMI showed an association between PD risk estimates and incident sub‐threshold parkinsonism (odds ratio [OR], 2.01 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.55–2.61]), as well as new onset bradykinesia (OR, 1.69 [95% CI, 1.33–2.16]) and action tremor (OR, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.30–1.98]).

Conclusions

Risk estimates using the PREDICT‐PD algorithm were associated with the occurrence of sub‐threshold parkinsonism, including bradykinesia and action tremor. The algorithm could also identify individuals whose motor examination experience a decline over time. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Miniaturized metallic symmetrical resonator backed CPW inspired dual band filter using Meander line for 5G mm‐wave applications
Authors: Coumar S. Oudaya
Published: June 2023

An ultra‐miniaturized symmetrical resonator backed coplanar waveguide based dual band pass filter using Meander line for 5G mm‐wave applications is presented. Meander line CPW structure with ultra miniaturized size was designed, investigated and its equivalent circuit was extracted using theoretical and experimental results to explore basic RF characteristics. The resonator at the back side of the substrate is symmetrical in both horizontal and vertical plane. This resonator is electrically coupled with the Meander line structure in the conducting plane. Symmetrical resonator structure coupled with open stubs on both sides on ground plane and Meander line structure with uniform spacing implemented at the conducting layer constitutes the metallic backed Co‐Planar waveguide based dual band filter. By using Meander line, the overall size of the communication devices has been reduced in large scale. The combination of symmetrical resonator and Meander line structure produces the overall bandwidth from (1 to 30) GHz. 5G mm‐wave filter operates in two bands; Band I operates from (1 to 14.2) GHz with insertion loss −1.8 dB and return loss −34 dB with fractional bandwidth of 73.6%; Band II operates from (16.2 to 30) GHz with insertion loss −1.2 dB, return loss −30 dB and fractional bandwidth of 59.7%. The overall filter circuit geometry is (5 × 5 × 1.6) mm and in terms of wavelength: (0.52 × 0.52) λg.
Submillimeter lung MRI at 0.55 T using balanced steady‐state free precession with half‐radial dual‐echo readout (bSTAR)
Authors: Bauman Grzegorz , Lee Nam G. , Tian Ye , Bieri Oliver , Nayak Krishna S.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of high‐resolution morphologic lung MRI at 0.55 T using a free‐breathing balanced steady‐state free precession half‐radial dual‐echo imaging technique (bSTAR).

Methods

Self‐gated free‐breathing bSTAR (TE1/TE2/TR of 0.13/1.93/2.14 ms) lung imaging in five healthy volunteers and a patient with granulomatous lung disease was performed using a 0.55 T MR‐scanner. A wobbling Archimedean spiral pole (WASP) trajectory was used to ensure a homogenous coverage of k‐space over multiple breathing cycles. WASP uses short‐duration interleaves randomly tilted by a small polar angle and rotated by a golden angle about the polar axis. Data were acquired continuously over 12:50 min. Respiratory‐resolved images were reconstructed off‐line using compressed sensing and retrospective self‐gating. Reconstructions were performed with a nominal resolution of 0.9 mm and a reduced isotropic resolution of 1.75 mm corresponding to shorter simulated scan times of 8:34 and 4:17 min, respectively. Analysis of apparent SNR was performed in all volunteers and reconstruction settings.

Results

The technique provided artifact‐free morphologic lung images in all subjects. The short TR of bSTAR in conjunction with a field strength of 0.55 T resulted in a complete mitigation of off‐resonance artifacts in the chest. Mean SNR values in healthy lung parenchyma for the 12:50 min scan were 3.6 ± 0.8 and 24.9 ± 6.2 for 0.9 mm and 1.75 mm reconstructions, respectively.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of morphologic lung MRI with a submillimeter isotropic spatial resolution in human subjects with bSTAR at 0.55 T.
Return‐to‐work self‐efficacy questionnaire: Cross‐cultural adaptation and validation in China
Authors: Wang Ting , Jin Mu , Zhu Ruiqi , Zheng Li , Wang Danni , Zhao Xin , Zhao Xueping
Published: June 2023

Aim

To develop a Chinese version of the return‐to‐work self‐efficacy (RTW‐SE‐11) and verify its reliability and validity.

Design

A validation study.

Methods

The RTW‐SE‐11 was translated into Chinese according to the Brislin's model, and then the semantic adjustment of questionnaire was carried out through multi‐field expert evaluation and preliminary investigation.

Results

All 11 items of the original questionnaire were retained. Content validity index (CVI) of the Chinese version of RTW‐SE‐11 indicated good validity, with Inter‐rater Agreement (IR) of 0.97, item CVI of 0.90–1.00 and questionnaire CVI of 0.91. Cronbach's α coefficient of RTW‐SE‐11 (Chinese version) was 0.923, suggesting high internal consistency, with test–retest reliability of 0.799 and half‐fold reliability of 0.926.

Patient or public contribution: The Chinese version of the RTW‐SE‐11 questionnaire confirmed good reliability and validity for the assessment of return to work self‐efficacy in Chinese breast cancer patients.
Understanding local knowledge and attitudes toward potential reintroduction of a former British wetland bird
Authors: Alif Živa , Crees Jennifer J. , White Rachel L. , Quinlan M. Megan , Kennerley Rosalind J. , Dando Thomas R. , Turvey Samuel T.
Published: June 2023

Stakeholder acceptance and support is essential for long‐term success in species reintroductions, and assessing social feasibility of reintroductions within human‐occupied landscapes is an integral component of effective decision‐making.

The Dalmatian pelicanPelecanus crispusis an extirpated British bird, and possible pelican reintroduction to British wetlands is under discussion. Any reintroduction planning must first assess local community awareness, attitudes, and acceptance of potential pelican arrival and associated habitat management, as part of wider socio‐ecological feasibility assessment. Pelicans are distinctive species with potential to increase support for wetland conservation, but might provoke conflict through real or perceived competition with landscape users such as fishers; such conflict is already seen within Britain between fishers and cormorants.

We conducted an online survey of 590 respondents in the Somerset Levels and East Anglian Fens, Britain's largest wetland landscapes, to understand local views on pelican reintroduction, other reintroductions and wetland restoration, and to investigate correlates of varying attitudes toward coexistence with pelicans and five other waterbirds (grey heron, Eurasian bittern, little egret, common crane, great cormorant).

Respondents had generally positive views about previous reintroductions of other species, and had overall positive attitudes toward all six waterbirds. Two‐thirds of respondents supported or strongly supported pelican reintroduction, but both benefits and concerns were identified in relation to its possible reintroduction. Anglers and hunters were more likely to hold negative attitudes toward pelicans, other waterbirds and wetland restoration. However, although anglers raised more concerns, they were not more likely to be unsupportive toward reintroduction. More socio‐demographic predictors were associated with negative attitudes toward restoration required to establish pelican habitat, suggesting that positive feelings toward biodiversity are outweighed by concerns around potential exclusion from local landscapes.

Our findings suggest pelican reintroduction might be supported by local stakeholders. Attitudes toward cormorants do not represent a blueprint for attitudes toward pelicans, and anglers may support reintroduction if concerns around impacts to fish stocks are addressed. Community engagement for species‐specific and landscape‐scale actions require separate approaches, with landscape management planning needing to target a wider range of stakeholder groups with separate concerns to those about coexistence with pelicans.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
A biodegradable cellulose fibrous membrane comprising cellulose microfibers and nanofibrils with enhanced interaction through crosslinking structure
Authors: Fan Xiaonan , Xiong Zhenjun , Li Jian , Lin Jinyou , Li Xiuhong
Published: June 2023

The petroleum‐based materials are widely used in daily life, which are inherently tough to degrade, increasingly polluting the environment and affecting human health. Cellulose fibrous membrane, the ubiquitous, low‐cost, and biodegradable material, can serve as a promising substitute. Herein, the biodegradable cellulose fibrous membranes were constructed with cellulose microfibers made from wood particle fibers (WPF) and the mechanical properties were enhanced by introducing the crosslinking system. The cellulose fibrous membrane made of the original WPF showed low tensile strength (0.1 KPa) and elastic modulus (1 MPa). By adding 10 wt% cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs), the prepared cellulose fibrous membrane exhibited an increase in tensile strength (0.525 MPa) and elastic modulus (535 MPa), respectively. To further improve the mechanical properties, the sodium alginate (SA) and Ca2+ were introduced to crosslink with the CNFs and promote the interaction among SA, CNFs and microfibers, which resulted in a substantial increase in tensile strength (5.62 MPa) and elastic modulus (1660 MPa) due to the formation of the interpenetrating entanglements and anchors. The normalized fracture energy of crosslinked hybrid cellulose fibrous membrane was 100.38 times higher than that of the original WPF membrane and 16 times higher than that of the un‐crosslinked cellulose membrane comprising CNFs. This strategy can serve as the foundation for preparing a mechanically enhanced cellulose fibrous membrane via crosslinking, making it possible to replace petroleum‐based plastics.
Subclassification of epithelioid sarcoma with potential therapeutic impact
Authors: Haefliger Simon , Chervova Olga , Davies Christopher , Nottley Steven , Hargreaves Steven , Sumathi Vaiyapuri P , Amary Fernanda , Tirabosco Roberto , Pillay Nischalan , Beck Stephan , Flanagan Adrienne M , Lyskjær Iben
Published: June 2023

Epithelioid sarcoma is a rare and aggressive mesenchymal tumour, the genetic hallmark of which is the loss of expression of SMARCB1, a key member of the SWItch/Sucrose Non‐Fermentable (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodelling complex. Hampered by its rarity, epithelioid sarcoma has received little research attention and therapeutic options for this disease remain limited. SMARCB1‐deficient tumours also include malignant rhabdoid tumour, atypical teratoid and rhabdoid tumour, epithelioid malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour, and poorly differentiated chordoma. Histologically, it can be challenging to distinguish epithelioid sarcoma from malignant rhabdoid tumour and other SMARCB1‐deficient tumours, whereas methylation profiling shows that they represent distinct entities and facilitates their classification. Methylation studies on SMARCB1‐deficient tumours, although not including epithelioid sarcomas, reported methylation subgroups which resulted in new clinical stratification and therapeutic approaches. In addition, emerging evidence indicates that immunotherapy, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, represents a promising therapeutic strategy for SMARCB1‐deficient tumours. Here, we show that some epithelioid sarcomas share methylation patterns of malignant rhabdoid tumours indicating that this could help to distinguish these entities and guide treatment. Using gene expression data, we also showed that the immune environment of epithelioid sarcoma is characterised by a predominance of CD8+ lymphocytes and M2 macrophages. These findings have potential implications for the management of patients with epithelioid sarcoma. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Effects of nonlinear hyper‐viscoelasticity and matrix/fiber debonding on the mechanical properties of short carbon fiber/styrene‐butadiene rubber composites under cyclic uniaxial loading using a multiscale finite element model
Authors: Andideh Mohammad , Ghoreishy Mir Hamid Reza , Soltani Sedigheh , Abbassi‐Sourki Foroud , Mansourian‐Tabaei Mohammad , Nouranian Sasan
Published: June 2023

A multiscale finite element analysis was performed for short carbon fiber (SCF) reinforced rubber composites under uniaxial tensile loading with periodic geometries and random distributions of the short fibers. Three different zones were considered, including the rubber matrix, SCF as the inclusion phase, and a thin matrix layer as the interphase. A nonlinear hyper‐viscoelastic model was selected for the matrix, while linear viscoelastic and elastic models were considered for the interphase and reinforcing phases, respectively. The analyses were carried out on an incremental basis from a lower loading‐unloading rate of 10 mm/min to a higher rate of 100 mm/min. Two interface conditions were considered between the polymer matrix and the SCF phases: perfect bonding and partial debonding. The partial debonding was modeled via extended FEM (XFEM) with a crack initiation criterion. An integral averaging technique was employed to predict stress and strain at the macro‐scale. Based on the observations in this work, hysteresis and energy dissipation decrease with the addition of the short fibers to the neat rubber and surface modification of the fibers under three‐cycle loading. For example, in the first cycle and for a constant stress of 0.45 MPa, the strain value decreases from 0.25 to 0.17 MPa at the loading‐unloading rate of 10 mm/min. The high‐fidelity model developed in this work for short fiber/rubber composites is able to predict the stress and strain responses of the SCF/SBR composites, confirming the accuracy of the utilized multiscale approach.
Free and forced vibration response of a laminated composite sandwich beam with dual honeycomb core: Numerical and experimental study
Authors: Thanikasalam Narayanan , Ramamoorthy Manoharan
Published: June 2023

Free and forced vibration characteristics of composite sandwich beams with single‐core (SC) and dual‐core (DC) are investigated in this study. The wet hand‐layup technique is followed to make the composite face sheet, and honeycomb cores are 3D printed using the fused filament fabrication method. The natural frequencies of SC and DC sandwich beams were measured using experimental modal tests and validated through a three‐dimensional finite‐element model. Also, parametric studies on the geometry of composite structures are performed to scrutinize the effect of DC sandwich beams with different ply orientations, length‐to‐breadth ratios, core thickness, and core cell wall thickness. In addition, the transverse vibration responses of SC and DC sandwich beams are examined under harmonic force excitations at different end conditions. The study result shows that the sandwich beam's vibration behavior is enhanced by the inclusion of a core.
Study on mechanical, thermal and morphology behaviour of sisal/bentonite nanoclay reinforced cardanol biopolymer composites
Authors: Nelson Esther Edwin Paul , Venkatesan Balaji , Sravankumar Pallam , Ramasamy Selvam
Published: June 2023

This study aims to synthesize and characterize a bioresin named cardanol from cashew nutshell liquid and use it to create novel polymer composites. Sisal fibres were dried out in an oven to reduce humidity. These fibres were then cut into 15 mm lengths and chemically treated using an alkaline process. Compression moulding was used to make polymer composites of cardanol reinforced with 15% wt% 15 mm sisal fibre and bentonite nanoclay (with nanoclay levels of 0%, 1%, 3%, 5% and 7%). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the bioresin cardanol. The mechanical behaviour for cardanol nanocomposites was assessed using tensile, flexural and impact tests and a water absorption test. Furthermore, the thermal and morphology behaviour of cardanol nanoclay composites was examined. The results confirm that increasing the range of nanoclay by up to 5% enhanced mechanical characteristics. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Bioplastic: an eco‐friendly alternative to non‐biodegradable plastic
Authors: Mangal Mangal , Rao Chebrolu Venkateswara , Banerjee Tamal
Published: June 2023

The accumulation of non‐biodegradable plastic waste in land and aquatic environments is expanding every day. According to data collected from various scientific reports, about 100–250 megatonnes of plastic waste arrives in the oceans annually. According to the Central Control Board of India (2019–2020), India produces about 3.5 million metric tonnes of plastic waste annually, while only 5–10% of the produced waste is recycled. The non‐recycled plastic waste dumped into the environment either goes to landfills or directly goes to the sea, which disrupts the marine life of the ocean. We are highly dependent on plastic at household and industrial scales. Removal of plastic waste and lowering the use of hazardous and non‐biodegradable plastics are the main challenges. Researchers and industrialists have come up with many ideas to lower the generation of non‐biodegradable plastic waste and found that reusability is easier than degradability, while the use of bioplastics is the ultimate solution to tackle the plastic waste problem. Hence, developing eco‐friendly alternative plastics without compromising physicochemical and mechanical properties is the need of the hour. An eco‐friendly alternative to conventional or petrochemical plastics is bioplastics, which are environmentally safe, and reduce our dependency on fossil reserves. Therefore, this review focuses on eco‐friendly bioplastics as an efficient alternative to non‐biodegradable plastics. Among renewable and sustainable feedstocks available, vegetable oils are the most suitable resource for bioplastic production because of their renewability and economical nature. Hence, this study concluded that polyurethane‐based polymers from vegetable oils are inherently more eco‐friendly than most other plastics. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Investigation of the influence of pH on the properties and morphology of gelatin hydrogels
Authors: Goudie K. J. , McCreath S. J. , Parkinson J. A. , Davidson C. M. , Liggat J. J.
Published: June 2023

The behavior of gelatin hydrogels is influenced by the charges located on the amino acid side chains throughout the gelatin molecules. The presence and distribution of ionisable side chains influences the surface activity of gelatin and ultimately determines the material properties. Herein, we report the influence of pH on mechanical properties as studied by texture analysis supported by data from polarimetry, zeta potential, pH titrations and NMR experiments. When adjusted to more extreme pH values (pH 2 and 12), softer gelatin blocks were observed. However, at pH values close to the isoelectric point (pH 5–10), the material is firmer. This behavior is related to the helical content. At pH 2 and pH 12 the surface of the gelatin carries a net charge, positive and negative, respectively, that inhibits the formation of tight helices and lowers the physical crosslink network density. Chemical shift perturbations were observed for the acidic amino acids glutamic and aspartic acid, under acidic pH, where their peaks shifted to higher ppm. Intense amide signals were observed at acidic pH but diminished with increasing pH. This was due to an increase in the rate of chemical exchange between the solvent and peptide amide protons as the pH increases.
Single‐tube two‐pronged approach using both cell‐free DNA and RNA for multimodal biomarker tests at the time of biopsy
Authors: Lin Shu‐Ti , Lai Hung‐Chih , Yeh Chen
Published: June 2023

The emergence of noninvasive liquid biopsy procedures as an alternative to surgical biopsies has fueled an intensive research effort and investment into the detection of cell‐free disease biomarkers. By pairing next‐generation sequencing (NGS) and RT‐qPCR technologies on cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) and RNA (cfRNA), respectively, we have established and validated a high‐throughput and quick‐turnaround workflow for highly sensitive detection of genomic alterations using a single tube of blood. This emphasizes the importance of our cfDNA/cfRNA recovery and enrichment knowhow to maximize the chance to capture relevant rare biomarkers. On the cfDNA‐NGS axis, sensitivity and specificity of 95% and 98% were recorded for somatic variants of ≥1% VAF, with high concordance observed between the in‐house and orthogonal assays. Overall accuracy for the cfRNA and RT‐qPCR portion of the workflow was >95%. Real‐world data of patients underwent the two‐pronged testing scheme revealed dramatic beneficial outcomes guided by genomic‐matched treatments. When implemented at the time of biopsy to expedite treatment decision‐making in the earliest possible way, the single‐tube two‐pronged approach can effectively reduce time to treatment initiation by about 70%. The cfDNA–cfRNA paired test is suitable for implementation in routine clinical decision‐making to maximize the benefit without delay.
Development and characterization of nanoemulsions loaded with essential oil and β‐cypermethrin and their bioefficacy on insect pest of economic and medical importance
Authors: Jesser Emiliano , Yeguerman Cristhian Alan , Urrutia Rodrigo Iñaki , Murray Ana Paula , Domini Claudia , Werdin‐González Jorge Omar
Published: June 2023

Background

The development of novel and ecofriendly tools plays an important role in insect pest management. Nanoemulsions (NEs) based on essential oils (EOs) offer a safer alternative for human health and the environment. This study aimed to elaborate and evaluate the toxicological effects of NEs containing peppermint or palmarosa EOs combined with β‐cypermethrin (β‐CP) using ultrasound technique.

Results

The optimized ratio of active ingredients to surfactant was 1:2. The NEs containing peppermint EO combined with β‐CP (NEs peppermint/β‐CP) were polydisperse with two peaks at 12.77 nm (33.4% intensity) and 299.1 nm (66.6% intensity). However, the NEs containing palmarosa EO combined with β‐CP (NEs palmarosa/β‐CP) were monodisperse with a size of 104.5 nm. Both NEs were transparent and stable for 2 months. The insecticidal effect of NEs was evaluated against Tribolium castaneum and Sitophilus oryzae adults, as well as Culex pipiens pipiens larvae. On all these insects, NEs peppermint/β‐CP enhanced pyrethroid bioactivity from 4.22‐ to 16‐folds while NEs palmarosa/β‐CP, from 3.90‐ to 10.6‐folds. Moreover, both NEs maintained high insecticidal activities against all insects for 2 months, although a slight increase of the particle size was detected.

Conclusion

The NEs elaborated in this work can be considered as highly promising formulations for the development of new insecticides. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Saikosaponins regulate bile acid excretion in mice liver and ileum by activating farnesoid X receptor and bile acid transporter
Authors: Wang YuKun , Li Jing , Wu Li , Qin XueMei , Xie Cen , Gao XiaoXia
Published: June 2023

Radix Bupleuri exerts effective hepatoprotective and cholagogic effects through its Saikosaponins (SSs) component. Therefore, we attempted to determine the mechanism of saikosaponins used to promote bile excretion by studying their effects on intrahepatic bile flow, focusing on the synthesis, transport, excretion, and metabolism of bile acids. C57BL/6N mice were continuously gavaged with saikosaponin a (SSa), saikosaponin b2 (SSb2), or saikosaponin D (SSd) (200 mg/kg) for 14 days. Liver and serum biochemical indices were determined using Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. In addition, an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometer (UPLC–MS) was used to measure the levels of the 16 bile acids in the liver, gallbladder, and cecal contents. Furthermore, SSs pharmacokinetics and docking between SSs and farnesoid X receptor (FXR)‐related proteins were analyzed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Administration of SSs and Radix Bupleuri alcohol extract (ESS) did not cause significant changes in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), or alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. Saikosaponin‐regulated changes in bile acid (BA) levels in the liver, gallbladder, and cecum were closely related to genes involved in BA synthesis, transport, and excretion in the liver. Pharmacokinetic studies indicated that SSs were characterized by rapid elimination (t1/2 as 0.68–2.47 h), absorption (Tmax as 0.47–0.78 h), and double peaks in the drug–time curves of SSa and SSb2. A molecular docking study revealed that SSa, SSb2, and SSd docked well with the 16 protein FXR molecules and target genes (<−5.2 kcal/mol). Collectively, saikosaponins may maintain BA homeostasis in mice by regulating FXR‐related genes and transporters in the liver and intestine.