bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why Business Ethics Needs Rhetoric: An Aristotelian Perspective
Authors: Duska Ronald F.
Published: February 2014

If the ultimate purpose of ethical argument is to persuade people to act a certain way, the point of doing business ethics is to persuade others about what constitutes proper ethical behavior. Given that teleological perspective, the role of the business ethicist is to be an orator or rhetorician. Further, since one cannot expect more certitude than the subject warrants, from Aristotle’s perspective,while rhetoric is the most persuasive means of arguing, it is not scientific demonstration. Rhetoric uses examples and enthymemes. Such an approach answers the postmodern claim that ethical argument cannot lead to certitude and shows how the use of rhetoric helps avoid relativism and leads to more effective persuasion. According to Aristotle, rhetoric involves gaining truth with a “rough and general sketch.” This rhetorical approach allows the listener to “see as” the persuader sees, by attending to aspects of our shared experience and language. This mirrors insights of Kant’s reflexive judgment in his third critique as well as the later Wittgenstein, who compares ethics to aesthetics.
The Pragmatic Robotic Agent
Authors: Johansson Linda ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2014

Can artifacts be agents in the same sense as humans? This paper endorses a pragmatic stance to that issue. The crucial question is whether artifacts can have free will in the same pragmatic sense as we consider humans to have a free will when holding them responsible for their actions. The origin of actions is important. Can an action originate inside an artifact, considering that it is, at least today, programmed by a human? In this paper it is argued that autonomy with respect to norms is crucial for artificial agency.
Negative Integer Understanding: Characterizing First Graders' Mental Models
Authors: Bofferding Laura
Published: February 2014

This article presents results of a research study with a pretest, instruction, and posttest design that aimed to identify students' mental models of integers and investigate how these models change based on instruction on the unary and/or binary meanings of the minus sign. Sixty-one first graders' responses to interview questions about negative integer values and order and directed magnitudes were examined to characterize the students' mental models. The models reveal that initially, students over-relied on various combinations of whole number principles as they tried to understand negative integers. However, a significant number of students developed formal mental models based on their instruction.
ABC Transporters: Maintenance of the Cancer Stem Cell Phenotype
Authors: Wei Zhang  , Li-Wu Fu
Published: February 2014

The poor therapeutic response to anti-cancer treatment and inferior prognosis of carcinoma primarily result from cancer stem cells (CSCs), which initiate and maintain tumors. Recent studies have demonstrated that the molecular phenotype of CSCs mainly consists of multidrug resistance (MDR), self-renewal, multi-lineage differentiation potential (pluripotency) and tumorigenicity. Intriguingly, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) membrane transporters are highly expressed in CSCs compared to non-CSCs, and recent evidence has highlighted a link between ABC transporters and the CSC phenotype. Understanding the relationship between CSCs and ABC transporters is important as this could lead to the development of more efficacious treatment regimens. Thus, in this article, we will mainly review the relationships between ABC transporters and the phenotype of CSCs.
Conventional Oral Systemic Chemotherapy for Postoperative Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Jian-Hong Zhong  , Le-Qun Li
Published: February 2014

Background:The findings of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) about the efficacy of adjuvant conventional oral systemic chemotherapy (COSC) for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after curative hepatic resection (HR) are contradictory. Therefore, a systematic review of clinical trials is needed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of adjuvant COSC. Methods:Sources such as MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched.All clinical trials comparing curative HR with HR plus COSC for HCC were identified. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated. Results:Five RCTs and one non-RCT involving a total of 461 patients were included. No treatment-related deaths were reported in the including trials. The adverse effects of COSC were generally mild. However, included studies and meta-analysis showed that adjuvant COSC did not demonstrate statistically significant improvement for the 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival. For the 1-, 3-, and 5-year tumor recurrence and recurrence-free survival rates, adjuvant COSC also did not show statistically significant less incidence. Conclusion:Adjuvant COSC provides no survival benefits for HCC patients after curative HR. Considering the efficacy of sorafenib for advanced HCC and the results of this systematic review, no more trials should be carried out to explore the efficacy of adjuvant COSC.
EGCG Suppresses Melanoma Tumor Angiogenesis and Growth without Affecting Angiogenesis and VEGF Expression in the Heart and Skeletal Muscles in Mice
Authors: Kevan B. Tucker  , Kristina L. Makey  , Edmund Chinchar  , Min Huang  , Natale Sheehan  , Srinivasan Vijayakumar  , Jian-Wei Gu
Published: February 2014

Melanoma is a highly malignant cancer with a potent capacity to metastasize distantly and has a higher mortality. There is no effective therapy for high risk melanoma patients to prevent relapse or distant metastasis. Therefore effective chemoprevention strategies are needed. The present study mainly evaluates the effects of EGCG on melanoma angiogenesis, growth, and capillary density (CD) in the heart and skeletal muscles of mice. 5 x 10^5 B16F10 cells were inoculated into the right proximal dorsal of the back in the eight week old male mice (n=12). Then, 6 mice received EGCG at 50-100 mg/kg/d in drinking water for 4 weeks and 6 control mice received drinking water only. Tumor size was monitored using dial calipers. At the end of the experiment, blood samples, tumors, hearts, and limb muscles were collected and measured for VEGF expression using ELISA and capillary density (CD) using CD31 immunohistochemistry. Compared to the control, EGCG treatment significantly reduced tumor weight (2.9±0.5 vs. 5.9±1.1 g; P<0.01; n=6), melanoma CD (117±9 vs. 167±23; P<0.01), and melanoma VEGF expression (32±1.5 vs. 42±2 pg/mg; P < 0.01), respectively. Also EGCG had no effects on body weight, heart weight, angiogenesis or VEGF expression in the heart and skeletal muscle of mice. EGCG (20-50 µg/ml) significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, VEGF expression, and the activation of HIF-1α and NFαB in cultured B16F10 cells, respectively. These findings support the hypothesis that EGCG, a major green tea polyphenol, directly targets tumor cells and tumor vasculature, thereby inhibiting tumor growth, proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of melanoma, and that the down-regulation of VEGF expression by EGCG is associated with the inhibition of HIF-1α and NFkB activation. EGCG has great potential as a chemopreventive agent because it has no effect on angiogenesis in normal tissue and has low toxicity.
Intraparenchymal chordoid Meningioma After Radiotherapy for Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literatur
Authors: Mustafa Efendioglu  , Recep Basaran  , Dogan Gundogan  , Fatih Han Bolukbasi  , Mustafa Kaksi  , Aydin Sav  , Tuncay Kaner
Published: February 2014

Objective: Hodgkin lymphoma can be treated by radiotherapy or chemotherapy alone or combined. Meningiomas account for 1-4.2% of all primary intracranial tumors in children, and chordoid meningioma is a very rare subtype. In this study, we investigated a case of an intraparenchymal chordoid meningioma that developed during the early stage in a patient with Hodgkin lymphoma who had been treated with radiotherapy.
Case: A 10-year-old male patient was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and was treated with a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. He presented at our emergency service 6 years later. He had a fever and was suffering from discomfort and insignificant left hemiparesis (4/5). Contrast-enhanced cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a mass in the right temporoparietal region. The intracranial lesion was surgically excised. The tumor was identified as a WHO grade 2 chordoid meningioma by the pathological examination. The Ki-67 proliferation index was found to be 20-25%.
Conclusion: Surgeons must remember that radiation-associated meningiomas may occur in the early stage of the treatment as well as in the late stage. Young patients with grade 2 chordoid meningiomas must be followed-up in case of recurrence, and tumors with high Ki-67 indexes are highly expected to relapse.
Factors Influencing Percentage Yield of Side Population Isolated in Ovarian Cancer Cell LineSK-OV-3
Authors: Yuling Chen  , Sui-Lin Mo  , Felix Wu Shun Wong  , George Qian Li  , Yen Siew Loh  , Basil D. Roufogalis  , Maureen V. Boost  , Daniel Man-Yuen Sze
Published: February 2014

Isolation of side population (SP) cells has been recognized as a useful technique for the isolation and identification of hematopoietic stem cells or cancer stem cells (CSCs). Thus the yield and purity of isolated SP cells would have a profound influence on the research outcomes in these two important areas. Hoechst 33342 exclusion assay technique has been used for the identification of SP cells. However, diverse Hoechst staining protocols giving different SP yields even from the same tissue type or same cell line have been reported in different laboratories. In this study we systematically investigated the underlying factors influencing the SP yield using Hoechst dye staining and a robust platform of flow cytometric analysis of the human ovarian cancer cell line SK-OV-3. Our study revealed that SP yield was not only affected by the Hoechst 33342 concentration, staining cell density, staining cell viability, staining duration, staining medium, flow cytometric setting and SP gating strategy, but was also affected by the cell passage number in SK-OV-3. This is the first systematic study on the factors affecting SP yield in adherent cells that mimic many solid tumour tissues. Our results provide important technical guidelines to help ensure reproducible and comparable results in SP and CSCs study.
B5H7, a Morpholine Derivative of 23-Hydroxybetulinic Acid, Reverses Doxorubicin Resistance in HepG2/ADM
Authors: Nan Yao  , Dao-Lu Liu  , Ying-Jie Li  , Zhe-Sheng Chen  , Zhi Shi  , Wei-Min Chen  , Zhe Yao  , Dong-Mei Zhang  , Wen-Cai Ye
Published: February 2014

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is the major cause of the failure of cancer chemotherapy. Development of MDR reversers is an important strategy to improve the efficacy of cancer chemotherapy. Here, we have found a morpholine derivative of 23-hydroxybetulinic acid, B5H7, with a reversal effect on MDR cancer cells. Our studies showed that B5H7 enhanced cytotoxicity of doxorubicin, but no cisplatin in MDR cancer cells HepG2/ADM. And we found that B5H7 not only increased the intracellular accumulation of P-glycoprotein substrates doxorubicin and rhodamine123, but also reduced the efflux of rhodamine123 in HepG2/ADM cells. Further studies showed B5H7 did not alter the protein level of P-glycoprotein and it also had no effect on P-glycoprotein ATPase activity. Taken together, we have found that B5H7 could reverse doxorubicin resistance in HepG2/ADM cells by inhibiting the transport function of P-glycoprotein. These findings contribute to developing B5H7 as an adjuvant to anticancer chemotherapy with doxorubicin.
Aider, s’aider, s’entraider : expériences de femmes travailleuses du sexe de rue et utilisatrices de drogues par injection dans une recherche-action participative visant la prévention du VIH
Authors: Labbé Fabienne , Mercure Sarah-Amélie , Bédard Amélie , Bédard Emmanuelle , Côté Françoise ,   Les participantes au Projet LUNE
Published: February 2014

L’intervention par les pairs est appelée à occuper une place grandissante parmi les initiatives pour prévenir l’acquisition/transmission du VIH. Une telle stratégie requiert nécessairement la participation des personnes et des groupes concernés. Or, l’expérience de la participation a été très peu documentée chez des femmes travailleuses du sexe de rue et utilisatrices de drogues injectables (TSR-UDI) impliquées dans une intervention par les pairs. Les résultats de l’analyse qualitative du Projet LUNE, une recherche-action participative menée dans la ville de Québec entre 2007 et 2010, sont décrits dans cet article. Les caractéristiques des 20 femmes souhaitant devenir des pairs aidantes, leurs motivations, les facteurs facilitant et entravant leur participation de même que les bénéfices collectifs et personnels de leur participation au projet ont été dégagés des analyses. Les principaux résultats indiquent que les femmes ont affirmé se sentir particulièrement aptes à aider leurs pairs, et ce, sur la base de leur connaissance et de leur expérience du milieu. Également, leur motivation a évolué au cours des trois ans, passant d’une certaine forme d’activisme pour la cause de leurs pairs à une recherche de bénéfices plus personnels. Ce sont différentes réalités étroitement associées à l’injection de drogues qui semblent avoir agi comme principal frein à la participation de plusieurs femmes TSR-UDI, alors que le fait de se sentir acceptées, respectées et considérées à l’intérieur du projet de recherche aurait favorisé leur participation. Finalement, les femmes dont la participation s’est prolongée tout au long de l’intervention par les pairs ont affirmé que leur engagement leur avait permis d’instaurer une certaine structure dans leur vie, d’apprendre à se connaître, d’acquérir des habiletés et d’augmenter leur estime de soi. Des recommandations pour l’intervention ont pu être formulées sur la base des processus observés lors du déroulement du projet.
POLITIKA SUZBIJANJA MALOLETNIČKE DELINKVENCIJE KAO DETERMINANTA DRUŠTVENOG RAZVOJA // POLICY OF PREVENTION OF JUVENILE DELINGUENCY AS A DETERMINANT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Dimovski Darko , Mirić Filip
Published: February 2014

Maloletnička delinkvencija je veliki društveni problem. Njena ekspanzija jeuslovila potrebu za pronalaženjem novih načina i sredstava za njeno suzbijanje. Zbogtoga politika suzbijanja maloletničke delinkvencije dobija svoj puni pravni i društveniznačaj. Stvaranje bezbednijeg i humanijeg društva je preduslov za njegov dalji razvoj.U radu se autori bave pronalaženjem novih načina za kreiranje uspešne politikesuzbijanja maloletničke delinkvencije, polazeći od njenih osnovnih kriminološkihobeležja, u cilju obezbeđenja uslova za uspešniji društveni razvoj. // Juvenile delinquency is a major social problem. Its expansion has made itnecessary to find new ways and means of combating it. Because of this policy onjuvenile delinquency is getting its full legal and social importance. Creating a saferand more humane society is a prerequisite for its further development. In this paper,the authors deal with finding new ways to create a successful policy for combatingjuvenile delinquency, based on its basic criminological characteristics, in order to ensureconditions for successful social development.
РАЧУНОВОДСТВЕНИ ОБУХВАТ ЈАВНО- ПРИВАТНОГ ПАРТНЕРСТВА // ACCOUNTING SCOPE OF THE PUBLICPRIVATE PARTNERSHIP
Authors: Вуковић Ведрана
Published: February 2014

Дугорочна пословна сарадња приватног сектора и јавних институција има зациљ искориштавање управљaчких и финансијских ресурса приватног сектора,који представљају значајно ограничење са аспекта Владе или локалнесамоуправе. Организациона структура таквог партнерства представљаформални систем одговорности којим су дефинисане појединачне позицијесубјеката, и њихове узајамне обавезе. Тиме долази до дистрибуцијеодговорности везаних за обезбјеђење потребних ресурса, алокације ризика међусубјектима, и реализације пројекта намијењеног задовољавању потреба јавногсектора. У раду је представљено рачуноводствено евидентирање уговора ојавно-приватном партнерству код јавног и приватног сектора као и различитиоблици трансакција између поменутих сектора. Сваки од модела ЈПП се наразличит начин приказује у рачуноводственој евиденцији код јавног иприватног сектора. Успјешно одабран модел јавно-приватног партнерства јеонај код кога је извршена дистрибуција обавеза, одговорности и ризика премаоном субјекту који њима може најефикасније управљати. С тога је неопходнообезбиједити адекватан надзор и регулацију обавеза преузетих уговором.Владин сектор који разматра могућности за покретање јавно-приватногпартнерства треба да размотри и: техничку, финансијску, економску и правнуизводљивост пројекта, а у циљу усаглашавања интереса Владе са интересимаприватног сектора. Задовољавањем ових предуслова постиже се крајњи циљпартнерства, а то је повећање ефикасности пројекта анагажовањем ресурса којису у власништу приватног сектора.
Globalna socijalna kriza
Authors: Aleksandrovič Lisičkin Vladimir , Aleksandrovič Šelepin Leonid
Published: February 2014

ApstraktU naše vreme proizvodne snage su dostigle planetarni nivo. Dimenzije zemlje kao da su se skupile. Novi sistem transporta, veza, kosmička tehnika, Internet ušli su u svakodnevni život. Na televiziji vidimo ono što se dešava na drugom kraju planete. Drugačiji su postali materijalni uslovi života društva. Istovremeno u društvu nastaje celi niz sporednih pojava, koje imaju negativan karakter. Ključ za shvatanje tih sporednih pojava daje Le Šatleov princip4, u skladu s kojim spoljna delovanja, izvode sistem iz položaja ravnoteže, izazivaju u njemu procese, koji vode slabljenju rezultata delovanja5. Izmene na planeti, uslovljene naučno-tehničkim progresom, povukle su za sobom negativne promene u stanju životne sredine. Pojavili su se spoljni sporedni procesi, kao prepreka daljem jačanju antropogenog uticaja. Takođe se radikalno izmenio i način života, unutrašnje stanje sociuma, i sam čovek. Te promene su sveopšte i objektivne. Uporedo sa globalnom ekološkom krizom možemo govoriti o globalnoj socijalnoj krizi. Ali za razliku od spoljne životne sredine, unutrašnjem stanju sociuma je poklonjeno neuporedivo manje pažnje, iako potencijalna opasnost nije manje značajna. Nije formulisan čak ni opšti pristup, nisu opisani procesi unutrašnje degradacije društva. Ali, kao i u životnoj, u socijalnoj sredini (sociumu) nastaje cela svukupnost negativnih pojava
Stigma i identitet
Authors: Plavšić Divna , Nišić Vanja
Published: February 2014

_
Essential role of lncRNA binding for WDR5 maintenance of active chromatin and embryonic stem cell pluripotency
Authors: Yang Yul W , Flynn Ryan A , Chen Yong , Qu Kun , Wan Bingbing , Wang Kevin C , Lei Ming , Chang Howard Y
Published: February 2014

The WDR5 subunit of the MLL complex enforces active chromatin and can bind RNA; the relationship between these two activities is unclear. Here we identify a RNA binding pocket on WDR5, and discover a WDR5 mutant (F266A) that selectively abrogates RNA binding without affecting MLL complex assembly or catalytic activity. Complementation in ESCs shows that WDR5 F266A mutant is unable to accumulate on chromatin, and is defective in gene activation, maintenance of histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation, and ESC self renewal. We identify a family of ESC messenger and lncRNAs that interact with wild type WDR5 but not F266A mutant, including several lncRNAs known to be important for ESC gene expression. These results suggest that specific RNAs are integral inputs into the WDR5-MLL complex for maintenance of the active chromatin state and embryonic stem cell fates.
Co/Pt multilayer based reference layers in magnetic tunnel junctions for nonvolatile spintronics VLSIs
Authors: Sato Hideo , Ikeda Shoji , Fukami Shunsuke , Honjo Hiroaki , Ishikawa Shinya , Yamanouchi Michihiko , Mizunuma Kotaro , Matsukura Fumihiro , Ohno Hideo
Published: February 2014

We investigated properties of Co/Pt multilayer for reference layer in CoFeB–MgO magnetic tunnel junctions with perpendicular easy axis. The sufficient thermal stability factor of 284 was obtained under zero applied field in 40-nm-diameter Co/Pt multilayer based reference layer annealed at 350 °C. By applying a synthetic ferrimagnetic (SyF) structure to the Co/Pt multilayer based reference layer, the shift of the center of minor resistance-magnetic field curves was suppressed, leading to higher thermal stability of antiparallel magnetization configuration than that without a SyF structure.
What Are Menstrual Cups?
Authors: Jin Jill
Published: July 2024

This JAMA Patient Page describes how to use a menstrual cup, a reusable bell- or V-shaped device that is placed inside the vagina to collect blood during menstrual periods.
Heat-Related Illness in Athletes
Authors: O’Connor Francis G. , DeGroot David W.
Published: July 2024

This JAMA Insights discusses heat-related illness in athletes, including risk factors, prevention, symptoms, and management.
National Trends in Suicide Among Asian American or Pacific Islander Youth
Authors: Keum Brian TaeHyuk , Oh Seungbin , Sheftall Arielle H.
Published: July 2024

This cross-sectional study examines trends in suicide rates among Asian American or Pacific Islander youth by sex from 1999 to 2021.
Hormone Deprivation–Free Survival—Inequities Persist in Research Priorities for Patients With Cancer
Authors: Hopkins Benjamin , Jagsi Reshma , Torres Mylin
Published: July 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the importance of hormone deprivation–free survival as an end point for both men with prostate cancer and women with breast cancer.
Comparing Self-Fitting Strategies for Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
Authors: Knoetze Megan , Manchaiah Vinaya , De Sousa Karina , Moore David R. , Swanepoel De Wet
Published: July 2024

Importance

Fewer than 20% of US adults with hearing loss use hearing aids due to barriers like high cost. Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids offer a potential solution, incorporating self-fitting strategies via smartphone apps. Self-fitting strategies have been validated for Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved OTC hearing aids compared with prescription-based approaches. However, no direct comparative analysis exists between in situ audiometry and self-adjustment strategies using self-fitting OTC (OTC-SF) hearing aids.

Objective

To compare self-adjustment and in situ audiometry self-fitting strategies in OTC-SF hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing difficulties.

Design Settings and Participants

A crossover, within-participant pseudorandomized clinical trial was conducted between July and November 2023. Twenty-eight participants were pseudo-randomly assigned to 1 of the 2 self-fitting strategies, and they experienced both interventions for 4 consecutive weeks.

Interventions

The self-adjustment group manually adjusted settings, including overall gain and spectral tilt, using Lexie B2 hearing aids, while the in situ audiometry group used Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids (Lexie Hearing by hearX Group), with an automated fitting based on in situ tests conducted through the app.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB). Secondary outcomes were International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids (IOI-HA), speech-in-noise tests (DIN and QuickSIN), and real-ear measurements (REMs). Measures were completed at baseline and after the 4-week field trial using each strategy.

Results

Twenty-eight participants (mean [SD] age, 60.2 [12.0] years) were included; 14 men and 14 women. Self-adjustment and in situ audiometry strategies produced no clinically meaningful differences across various outcome measures, including overall APHAB benefit (Cohen d = 0.2; 95% CI, −0.2 to 0.6) and overall IOI-HA satisfaction (Rosenthal r = 0.0; 95% CI, −0.3 to 0.2). Self-adjustment users reported higher satisfaction (Rosenthal r = −0.4; 95% CI, −0.6 to −0.1) and longer daily use (Rosenthal r = −0.3; 95% CI, –0.5 to 0.0) compared with those using in situ audiometry. No clinically meaningful differences were observed in speech-in-noise benefit and real-ear measurements.

Conclusion and Relevance

In this clinical trial of OTC-SF hearing aids, self-adjustment and in situ audiometry strategies resulted in similar outcomes. However, self-adjustment may produce higher satisfaction and longer daily use, highlighting the potential advantages of active user involvement in the fitting process. Further investigation is needed for long-term outcomes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05782153
Congenital Cutaneous Sinus at the Sternoclavicular Joint
Authors: Huang Xue-Qin , Zheng Jian-Long , Fan Yi-Ming
Published: July 2024

A 32-year-old female patient presented with chronic discharging sinus with recurrent infection at the left sternoclavicular joint. What is your diagnosis?
Recent Progress in Generation of Inner Ear Organoid
Authors: Zong Yanjun , Liu Xiaozhou , Zhang Yaqi , Zhao Jiahui , Shi Xinyu , Zhao Zhengdong , Sun Yu
Published: July 2024

Inner ear organoids play a crucial role in hearing research. In comparison to other animal models and 2D cell culture systems, inner ear organoids offer significant advantages for studying the mechanisms of inner ear development and exploring novel approaches to disease treatment. Inner ear organoids derived from human cells are more closely resemble normal human organs in development and function. The 3D culture system of the inner ear organoid enhances cell–cell interactions and mimics the internal environment. In this review, the progress and limitations of organoid culture methods derived from tissue‐specific progenitors and pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are summarized, which may offer new insights into generating organoids that closely resemble the inner ear in terms of morphology and function.
The Rational Engineered Bacteria Based Biohybrid Living System for Tumor Therapy
Authors: Wang Chen , Feng Qiliner , Shi Si , Qin Yuxuan , Lu Hongli , Zhang Peng , Liu Jie , Chen Baizhu
Published: July 2024

Living therapy based on bacterial cells has gained increasing attention for their applications in tumor treatments. Bacterial cells can naturally target to tumor sites and active the innate immunological responses. The intrinsic advantages of bacteria attribute to the development of biohybrid living carriers for targeting delivery toward hypoxic environments. The rationally engineered bacterial cells integrate various functions to enhance the tumor therapy and reduce toxic side effects. In this review, the antitumor effects of bacteria and their application are discussed as living therapeutic agents across multiple antitumor platforms. The various kinds of bacteria used for cancer therapy are first introduced and demonstrated the mechanism of antitumor effects as well as the immunological effects. Additionally, this study focused on the genetically modified bacteria for the production of antitumor agents as living delivery system to treat cancer. The combination of living bacterial cells with functional nanomaterials is then discussed in the cancer treatments. In brief, the rational design of living therapy based on bacterial cells highlighted a rapid development in tumor therapy and pointed out the potentials in clinical applications.
3D Printed Supercapacitors Based on Laser‐derived Hierarchical Nanocomposites of Bimetallic Co/Zn Metal‐Organic Framework and Graphene Oxide
Authors: Mokhtarnejad Mahshid , Mokhtarinori Narges , Ribeiro Erick L. , Kamali Saeed , Dai Sheng , Mukherjee Dibyunde , Khomami Bamin
Published: July 2024

Supercapacitors (SCs) have the unique ability to rapidly recharge while providing substantial power output. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are emerging as promising electrode materials for SCs due to their high porosity, ease of synthesis, tunable pore size distribution, and exceptional structural adaptability. This study presents a facile and cost‐effective method, namely, laser ablation synthesis in solution (LASiS), for the synthesis of bimetallic MOFs composited with reduced graphene oxide (rGO), namely, ZnCo bi‐MOF‐rGO hybrid nanocomposite (HNC). Comprehensive analyses demonstrate that ZnCo bi‐MOF‐rGO has a high specific capacitance of 1092 F g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 in a 0.5 M Na3SO4 electrolyte. In addition, these bi‐MOF‐rGO composites have been successfully integrated with appropriate solvents, viscosity modifiers, in‐house synthesized porous carbon (PC), commercially available graphene, and binders into an active layer ink material for the development of high‐performance 3D printed SCs via sequential inkjet printing. To that end, the way has been paved for the incorporation of this class of material into energy storage applications, particularly in the fabrication of high‐performance printed electronics using laser‐induced materials.
Photoactivatable mRNA 5′ Cap Analogs for RNA‐Protein Crosslinking
Authors: Warminski Marcin , Grab Katarzyna , Szczepanski Kacper , Spiewla Tomasz , Zuberek Joanna , Kowalska Joanna , Jemielity Jacek
Published: July 2024

Chemical modification of messenger RNA (mRNA) has paved the way for advancing mRNA‐based therapeutics. The intricate process of mRNA translation in eukaryotes is orchestrated by numerous proteins involved in complex interaction networks. Many of them bind specifically to a unique structure at the mRNA 5′‐end, called 5′‐cap. Depending on the 5′‐terminal sequence and its methylation pattern, different proteins may be involved in the translation initiation and regulation, but a deeper understanding of these mechanisms requires specialized molecular tools to identify natural binders of mRNA 5′‐end variants. Here, a series of 8 new synthetic 5′‐cap analogs that allow the preparation of RNA molecules with photoreactive tags using a standard in vitro transcription reaction are reported. Two photoreactive tags and four different modification sites are selected to minimize potential interference with cap‐protein contacts and to provide complementary properties regarding crosslinking chemistry and molecular interactions. The tailored modification strategy allows for the generation of specific crosslinks with model cap‐binding proteins, such as eIF4E and Dcp2. The usefulness of the photoreactive cap analogs is also demonstrated for identifying the cap‐binding subunit in a multi‐protein complex, which makes them perfect candidates for further development of photoaffinity labeling probes to study more complex mRNA‐related processes.
A Human‐Computer Interaction Strategy for An FPGA Platform Boosted Integrated “Perception‐Memory” System Based on Electronic Tattoos and Memristors
Authors: Li Yang , Qiu Zhicheng , Kan Hao , Yang Yang , Liu Jianwen , Liu Zhaorui , Yue Wenjing , Du Guiqiang , Wang Cong , Kim Nam‐Young
Published: July 2024

The integrated “perception‐memory” system is receiving increasing attention due to its crucial applications in humanoid robots, as well as in the simulation of the human retina and brain. Here, a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) platform‐boosted system that enables the sensing, recognition, and memory for human‐computer interaction is reported by the combination of ultra‐thin Ag/Al/Paster‐based electronic tattoos (AAP) and Tantalum Oxide/Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide (Ta2O5/IGZO)‐based memristors. Notably, the AAP demonstrates exceptional capabilities in accommodating the strain caused by skin deformation, thanks to its unique structural design, which ensures a secure fit to the skin and enables the prolonged monitoring of physiological signals. By utilizing Ta2O5/IGZO as the functional layer, a high switching ratio is conferred to the memristor, and an integrated system for sensing, distinguishing, storing, and controlling the machine hand of multiple human physiological signals is constructed together with the AAP. Further, the proposed system implements emergency calls and smart homes using facial electromyogram signals and utilizing logical entailment to realize the control of the music interface. This innovative “perception‐memory” integrated system not only serves the disabled, enhancing human‐computer interaction but also provides an alternative avenue to enhance the quality of life and autonomy of individuals with disabilities.
Smouldering‐Associated Worsening in Multiple Sclerosis: An International Consensus Statement on Definition, Biology, Clinical Implications, and Future Directions
Authors: Scalfari Antonio , Traboulsee Anthony , Oh Jiwon , Airas Laura , Bittner Stefan , Calabrese Massimiliano , Garcia Dominguez Jose Manuel , Granziera Cristina , Greenberg Benjamin , Hellwig Kerstin , Illes Zsolt , Lycke Jan , Popescu Veronica , Bagnato Francesca , Giovannoni Gavin
Published: July 2024

Despite therapeutic suppression of relapses, multiple sclerosis (MS) patients often experience subtle deterioration, which extends beyond the definition of “progression independent of relapsing activity.” We propose the concept of smouldering‐associated‐worsening (SAW), encompassing physical and cognitive symptoms, resulting from smouldering pathological processes, which remain unmet therapeutic targets. We provide a consensus‐based framework of possible pathological substrates and manifestations of smouldering MS, and we discuss clinical, radiological, and serum/cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers for potentially monitoring SAW. Finally, we share considerations for optimizing disease surveillance and implications for clinical trials to promote the integration of smouldering MS into routine practice and future research efforts. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:826–845
Chemodivergent Parallel Kinetic Resolution of Paracyclophanes: Enantiomer Fishing with Different Substrates
Authors: Liu Qian , Teng Kunpeng , Zhang Yi , Lv Ya , Chi Yonggui Robin , Jin Zhichao
Published: July 2024

An unprecedented chemodivergent strategy for parallel kinetic resolution (PKR) is disclosed through which two planar chiral products bearing different structures were simultaneously afforded with opposite stereoselectivities. Two achiral esters are activated by one single chiral N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalyst to react with the different enantiomers of the racemic imine substrate in a parallel fashion. Two products bearing distinct structures and opposite stereoselectivities are respectively afforded from the same reaction system in good to excellent yields, enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities. Control experiments and kinetic studies are carried out to probe the kinetic and dynamic properties during the reaction progress. The planar chiral pyridine and lactam products show interesting applications in both asymmetric synthesis and pesticide development.
A Cascade C(sp3)−H Annulation Involving C(alkyl),C(alkyl)‐Palladacycle Intermediates
Authors: Zhou Liwei , Chen Xiahong , Peng Qiong , Li Zhiwei , Qiao Shujia , Deng Guobo , Liang Yun , Lei Ming , Yang Yuan
Published: July 2024

C−H bond functionalization involving C,C‐palladacycle intermediates provides a unique platform for developing novel reactions. However, the vast majority of studies have been limited to the transformations of C(aryl),C‐palladacycles. In sharp contrast, catalytic reactions involving C(alkyl),C(alkyl)‐palladacycles have rarely been reported. Herein, we disclose an unprecedented cascade C(sp3)−H annulation involving C(alkyl),C(alkyl)‐palladacycles. In this protocol, alkene‐tethered cycloalkenyl bromides undergo intramolecular Heck/C(sp3)−H activation to generate C(alkyl),C(alkyl)‐palladacycles, which can be captured by α‐bromoacrylic acids to afford tricyclic fused pyridinediones. In addition, this strategy can also be applied to indole‐tethered cycloalkenyl bromides to construct pentacyclic fused pyridinediones via suquential Heck dearomatization/C(sp3)−H activation/decarboxylative cyclization. Notably, the removal of α‐bromoacrylic acids in the reaction of alkene‐tethered cycloalkenyl bromides can build an interesting tricyclic skeleton containing a four‐membered ring. Preliminary mechanistic experiments indicate that five‐membered C(alkyl),C(alkyl)‐palladacycles serve as the key intermediates. Meanwhile, density functional theory (DFT) calculations have provided insights into the reaction pathway.
Sophorolipids, commercialized glycolipid biosurfactants: Derivatives, component analysis, and applications
Authors: Kobayashi Yosuke , Fukuoka Tokuma
Published: July 2024

Biosurfactants contain various kinds of compounds and have complex structures because they are derived from microorganisms. Sophorolipids (SLs) are biosurfactants that are being commercialized. However, there are issues with fermentation technology and interface science due to the presence of many derivatives, which has become a bottleneck for the commercial expansion of SLs. This review addresses this issue. First, SL derivatives are described, including acid, lactone, bola, and glyceride forms. Then, the yeasts that produce various SL derivatives are described. Next, methods for measuring SL concentrations and component ratios are described, including high‐performance liquid chromatography with methanol. Finally, their applications in toiletries, cosmetics, medicine, livestock, agriculture, and the environment are described, and we discuss the importance of measuring SL concentrations and derivative ratios as technical challenges to revitalize the SL market.
Understanding the drivers of seagrass loss in Kenya: Evidence for the impacts of population and fishing
Authors: Mwikamba Edward M. , Githaiga Michael N. , Huxham Mark , Briers Robert A.
Published: July 2024

Seagrass ecosystems are crucial for supporting biodiversity and serve as vital fishing grounds. Unfortunately, their cover is declining globally. In Kenya, seagrass cover is falling by ~ 1.6% annually but the causes are unknown. This study investigated the possible anthropogenic drivers of seagrass decline along the Kenyan coastline.

Satellite and large‐scale geographic data on population growth, chlorophyll α trends, housing, and road density were used to explore their effects on seagrass cover loss along the whole coastline. Direct investigations were conducted into the effects of seine netting and basket trapping within seagrasses.

There was an average loss of 1.9 km2 per 25 km2 seagrass cover between 2000 and 2016 and a weak but significant relationship between population growth and seagrass decline, with losses concentrated in areas with the highest population density. In contrast with studies elsewhere, there was no evidence implicating eutrophication, supporting the suggestion that declines are linked to direct anthropogenic impacts such as fishing. A field experiment showed that a single instance of seine netting caused a significant loss of seagrass cover of 8.3% within the area fished, while no significant changes were observed with basket traps.

These findings support the evidence that declines in seagrass in Kenya and in other African countries are anthropogenic and are linked with fishing pressure and endorse existing efforts to restrict use of seine netting within seagrasses.

Understanding the status, changes, and drivers of change in seagrass ecosystems in Africa is crucial for developing effective national and local seagrass conservation plans, and for compliance with international commitments on seagrass conservation.
Nachweis erforderlicher Ankerlängen mit der FEM bei zweifacher Rückverankerung
Authors: Perau Eugen , Wüster Toni
Published: July 2024

Im Beitrag wird die Notwendigkeit der Mindestlängen von Verpressankern von Verbauwänden analysiert. Der zugehörige Nachweis der erforderlichen Ankerlänge soll nach aktueller Normung mit dem Nachweis der Standsicherheit in der tiefen Gleitfuge geführt werden. Berechnungen nach der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode (FEM) sind nicht vorgesehen. Die zukünftig europaweit gültige Normung wird absehbar zu einem verstärkten Einsatz der FEM bei Standsicherheitsnachweisen führen, ohne dass alle Einzelheiten zu diesen Nachweisen bereits festgelegt wurden. Der Nachweis der erforderlichen Ankerlänge einfach rückverankerter Verbauwände mit der FEM wurde bereits systematisch analysiert. Eine schrittweise Reduzierung der Scherparameter des Bodens wurde hier als das am besten geeignete Verfahren identifiziert. Allerdings entspricht dies nicht dem in der aktuellen Normung vorgegebenen Verfahren eines Vergleichs der vorhandenen Ankerkraft mit einer möglichen Ankerkraft aus einer Untersuchung der tiefen Gleitfuge. In dem Beitrag wird anhand eines Beispiels untersucht, ob das Verfahren der schrittweisen Reduzierung der Scherparameter des Bodens auch bei zweifach rückverankerten Verbauwänden zu plausiblen Ergebnissen führt. Eine besondere Bedeutung kommt dabei auch der Ermittlung der Bruchmechanismen im Untergrund zu. Eine Frage ist, ob sich bei einer Variation beider Ankerlängen unterschiedliche Bruchmechanismen einstellen, wie sie sich auch bei den klassischen Verfahren ergeben.
Nanostructured transition metal dichalcogenides‐based colorimetric sensors: Synthesis, characterization, and emerging applications
Authors: Raghunathan Muthukumar , Kapoor Ashish , Kumar Praveen , Laxshmivarahan Ananya , Tripathi Subhash Chandra , Ahmad Irfan , Pal Dan Bahadur
Published: July 2024

Nanostructured transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have garnered significant attention as prospective materials for the development of highly sensitive and versatile colorimetric sensors. This work explores the synthesis, characterization, and emerging applications of TMDC‐based sensors, focusing on their unique structural aspects and inherent properties. The synthesis methods involve tailored fabrication techniques, such as chemical vapor deposition and hydrothermal processes, aimed at producing well‐defined nanostructures that enhance sensor performance. Characterization techniques, including microscopy, spectroscopy, and surface analysis, are employed to elucidate the structural and chemical features of the nanostructured TMDCs. These analyses provide insights into the correlation between the material's morphology and its sensing capabilities. The colorimetric sensing mechanism relies on the modulation of optical properties in response to specific analytes, enabling rapid and visual detection. The emerging applications of TMDC‐based colorimetric sensors span diverse fields, including environmental monitoring, healthcare, and industrial processes. The sensors exhibit high sensitivity, selectivity, and real‐time response, making them ideal candidates for detecting various target analytes. Furthermore, their integration with complementary technologies such as microfluidics, can facilitate the development of on‐site and point‐of‐care applications. This work highlights the interdisciplinary significance of nanostructured TMDC‐based colorimetric sensors and underscores their potential contributions to addressing contemporary challenges in sensing technology.
Preparation of thermochromic ink from anthocyanidin‐encapsulated alginate nanoparticles for anticounterfeiting applications
Authors: Khalaf Mai. M. , Gouda Mohamed , Hamdalla Taymour A. , Abou Taleb Manal F. , Abd El‐Lateef Hany M.
Published: July 2024

In order to make commercial products less vulnerable to counterfeiting, thermochromic inks have proven to be a viable authentication strategy. Herein, we developed a thermochromic ink for authentication by combining an anthocyanidin (ACYD) extract with alginate (ALG). To increase the anthocyanidin/alginate ink stability, a mordant (ferrous sulfate) was employed to tie up the anthocyanidin biomolecules with alginate. ACYD was extracted from red‐cabbage and then immobilized into alginate to serve as an environmentally friendly spectroscopic probe. Thermochromic composite inks (ACYD@ALG) were made by adjusting the content of anthocyanidin. A homogenous blue film (608 nm) was printed on a paper surface and investigated by the CIE Lab coordinate system. The blue color transformed into reddish (477 nm) when heated from 35°C to 65°C. Nanoparticles (NPs) of anthocyanidin/mordant (ACYD/M) were examined for their size and morphology to indicate diameters of 80–90 nm, whereas the ACYD/M‐encapsulated alginate nanoparticles showed diameters of 120–150 nm. Multiple analytical techniques were utilized to examine the printed papers. The mechanical and rheological performance of both stamped sheets and ink fluid were explored. The cytotoxicity and antimicrobial efficacy of ink (ACYD@ALG) were investigated.
Rural NEETs' hope across the COVID‐19 pandemic: A bioecological longitudinal mapping
Authors: Simões Francisco
Published: July 2024

My aim is to map the socioecology of rural emergent adults Not in Employment, nor in Education or Training (NEET)'s hope during the COVID‐19 pandemic period. The study involved 213 participants (M age = 26.35; DP = 4.15; 66.20% women) in a three‐wave longitudinal study running between June 2020 and June 2021, in The Azores Islands, Portugal. Inspired by the bioecological model and using a linear mixed model approach, I found that: (i) female NEETs presented a significantly worse evolution of hope dimensions levels compared to men; (ii) while inactive NEETs' agency estimates increased as a result of an increment in Public Employment Services' (PES) support, unemployed NEETs' estimates decreased over time to the point that they were below inactive NEETs' agency rates at higher levels of PES support; and (iii) at higher levels of collectivism, unemployed NEETs showed more positive and significant estimates of perceived ability to achieve goals compared to inactive NEETs, conversely to what happened at lower levels of perceived collectivism. These results show the need to better tailor PES' services and interventions to different types of NEETs, addressing structural inequalities (e.g., gender gap) or the role of service digitalization for rural NEETs' different subgroups. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Cellular response during cellular starvation: A battle for cellular survivability
Authors: Bhowmick Tithi , Biswas Souradeep , Mukherjee Avinaba
Published: July 2024

Cellular starvation occurs when a cell is deprived of nutrition and oxygen availability. The genesis of this state of deprivation is exclusively contingent upon the inadequacy in the supply of essential components, namely amino acids, glucose, and oxygen. Consequently, the impact of this altered condition manifests in the regulation of cellular respiratory, metabolic, and stress responses. Subsequently, as a reactive outcome, cell death may transpire through mechanisms such as autophagy or apoptosis, particularly under prolonged circumstances. However, the cell combats such situations by evolving altered activity in their metabolic and protein level. Modulated signaling cascades help them to conquer starvation. But as in a prolonged condition, the battle that a cell has to evolve will come into and result in the form of cellular death. Therefore, in cancer therapy, cellular starvation may also act as a possible way out so that the cancer cell can undergo its death pathway in an induced starved condition. This review has collectively depicted the mechanism of cellular starvation. Besides this, the cellular response in this starved condition has also been summarized. Gaining such knowledge of the causation of cell starvation and cellular response during starvation not only generates new insight into the mechanism of cell survivability but also may act as a beneficial role in combating cellular diseases like cancer.