bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Energy‐Mediated Self‐Catalyzed CsPbBr3 Nanowires for Phototransistors
Authors: Li Dengji , Meng You , Zheng Yini , Xie Pengshan , Kang Xiaolin , Lai Zhengxun , Bu Xiuming , Wang Wei , Wang Weijun , Chen Furong , Liu Chuntai , Lan Changyong , Yip SenPo , Ho Johnny C.
Published: September 2022

Controllable self‐catalyzed growth of semiconductor nanowires (NWs) is of great importance, particularly to avoid impurities coming from foreign catalysts to deteriorate the NW properties. Although this catalyst‐free NW growth has many obvious advantages, there are very limited works focused on all‐inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite NWs, which is one of the recent champion materials for electronics and optoelectronics. Here, a direct self‐catalyzed synthesis of freestanding CsPbBr3 NWs via vapor–liquid–solid growth mechanism by chemical vapor deposition is developed. Notably, mainipulation of the substrate surface roughness is the key enabling parameter for the self‐catalyzed NW growth here. It is revealed that the surface energy of substrates, modulated by its surface roughness, is found to effectively mediate the self‐catalytic growth of CsPbBr3 NWs. When configured into photodetectors, the intrinsic p‐type CsPbBr3 NWs exhibit good optoelectronic performance with a photoresponivity of ≈2000 A W−1, a detectivity of ≈2.57 × 1012 Jones, and a fast response down to 362 µs. All these results evidently indicate the technological potential of this self‐catalyzed synthesizing route for other high‐quality all‐inorganic perovskite NWs.
An Emerging Mineral‐Based Dielectric Material: Intrinsic Dielectric Properties and Modulated
Authors: Liang Xiaozheng , Xie Weimin , Ren Yangjun , Yang Huaming
Published: September 2022

High energy density polymer nanocomposites reinforced with high dielectric constant ferroelectric nanoparticles exhibit great potential for energy storage applications in modern electronic and electrical systems. However, further improvements in the Ue of polymer nanocomposites with a higher breakdown strength (Eb) is of utmost importance. Tuning the permittivity from the filler center to the surrounding matrix in composites can alleviate local charge concentrations. Here, a gradient dielectric constant buffer layer is constructed via induced selectively titanium dioxide is inserted into the multilayer aluminosilicate. This gradient‐structured buffer layer remarkably weakened the charge density around the ferroelectric particles, which gave rise to high breakdown strength and increased the energy density of the polymer nanocomposites. Furthermore, the density functional theory (DFT) calculation reveals an active charge transfer between buffer layer and poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene). The space charge density distribution is simulated via finite element methods to verify the experimental dielectric breakdown results in the nanocomposite films. Therefore, this work provides a new strategy to balance the coupling relationship between energy density and breakdown strength.
Credibility crisis in agricultural economics
Authors: Ferraro Paul J. , Shukla Pallavi
Published: September 2022

We provide empirical evidence of research practices that can undermine the credibility of empirical research in agricultural economics. We find that, in four popular journals, most studies are underpowered, a characteristic that, when coupled with publication bias, yields unreliable and exaggerated effect sizes. This problem is exacerbated by selective reporting of statistically significant results and multiple hypothesis testing without any adjustments to statistical inferences. Survey respondents self‐report engaging in practices that are consistent with these empirical findings. Addressing these problems in agricultural economics will require that editors, reviewers, and donors change the norms and incentives for authors.
Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Interfacing Photoactive Molecular Components for Managing Energy Conversion Processes
Authors: Stangel Christina , Nikoli Eleni , Tagmatarchis Nikos
Published: September 2022

The remarkable properties of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), represented by molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), make them promising candidates as active nanomaterials for optoelectronics, electronic, and electrochemical applications. Different exfoliation methods can drastically alter the properties of TMDs, changing the metallic–semiconducting polytype or creating defects, while further chemical surface modification offers additional routes to tune the properties of TMDs by adding new functions. In this timely review, a general outlook on the most representative examples of TMD‐based materials interfacing photoactive components, such as porphyrins and phthalocyanines among others, yielding electron donor–acceptor hybrids and nanoensembles for energy conversion schemes, specifically for managing charge transfer events, is presented. The covalent and noncovalent approaches for the coupling of the aforesaid photoactive species with TMDs and their photophysical characterization are highlighted. Moreover, the properties, preparation methods, and characterization techniques of TMDs, mainly for MoS2, are also brieﬂy discussed. Finally, perspectives and challenges of this emerging area are showcased, aiming to increase scientific attention and enhance not only the performance but also their applicability.
Relationship of serum beta‐synuclein with blood biomarkers and brain atrophy
Authors: Oeckl Patrick , Anderl‐Straub Sarah , Danek Adrian , Diehl‐Schmid Janine , Fassbender Klaus , Fliessbach Klaus , Halbgebauer Steffen , Huppertz Hans‐Jürgen , Jahn Holger , Kassubek Jan , Kornhuber Johannes , Landwehrmeyer Bernhard , Lauer Martin , Prudlo Johannes , Schneider Anja , Schroeter Matthias L. , Steinacker Petra , Volk Alexander E. , Wagner Matias , Winkelmann Juliane , Wiltfang Jens , Ludolph Albert C. , Otto Markus ,   for the FTLD Consortium
Published: September 2022

Background

Recent data support beta‐synuclein as a blood biomarker to study synaptic degeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

We provide a detailed comparison of serum beta‐synuclein immunoprecipitation – mass spectrometry (IP‐MS) with the established blood markers phosphorylated tau 181 (p‐tau181) (Simoa) and neurofilament light (NfL) (Ella) in the German FTLD consortium cohort (n = 374) and its relation to brain atrophy (magnetic resonance imaging) and cognitive scores.

Results

Serum beta‐synuclein was increased in AD but not in frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) syndromes. Beta‐synuclein correlated with atrophy in temporal brain structures and was associated with cognitive impairment. Serum p‐tau181 showed the most specific changes in AD but the lowest correlation with structural alterations. NfL was elevated in all diseases and correlated with frontal and temporal brain atrophy.

Discussion

Serum beta‐synuclein changes differ from those of NfL and p‐tau181 and are strongly related to AD, most likely reflecting temporal synaptic degeneration. Beta‐synuclein can complement the existing panel of blood markers, thereby providing information on synaptic alterations.

Highlights

Blood beta‐synuclein is increased in Alzheimer's disease (AD) but not in frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) syndromes.

Blood beta‐synuclein correlates with temporal brain atrophy in AD.

Blood beta‐synuclein correlates with cognitive impairment in AD.

The pattern of blood beta‐synuclein changes in the investigated diseases is different to phosphorylated tau 181 (p‐tau181) and neurofilament light (NfL).
Co(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) complexes of 5‐methyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐amine Schiff base as potential heat shock protein 90 inhibitors: Spectroscopic, biological activity, density functional theory, and molecular docking studies
Authors: Al‐Janabi Ahmed S. , Al‐Bayati Ahmed F. K. , ALtaie Omar Abdullah , Elzupir Amin O. , Yousef Tarek A.
Published: September 2022

Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is a promising target in tumor biology as required for oncogenic protein kinases. The Hsp90‐alpha N‐domain delineates an ATP binding pocket; therefore, the ligands competitors to ATP are potential Hsp90 inhibitors. This study demonstrates the inhibition of the N‐terminal ATPase of Hsp90 with 4‐methyl‐2‐(((5‐methyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)amino)methyl)phenol (MoxOH) and their Co(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) complexes. MoxOH and its complexes were successfully synthesized and characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), UV–visible, mass spectroscopy, 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and magnetic and conductivity measurements. By employing density functional theory B3LYP/LANL2DZ+6‐31+G(d,p) as a basis set, we have examined their spectral and structural properties, such as the energy band gap, dipole moment, chemical potential, Mulliken charge distributions, and highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO)–lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) interactions. The activity of the compounds against Hsp90 has been investigated using molecular docking. They showed excellent binding percentages of up to 100% to the ATP binding pocket and low binding energies ranging from −7.2 to −9.5 kcal mol−1. The antibacterial properties of these compounds made them effective against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. These compounds were highly effective at inhibiting the growth of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. These complexes may offer new hope for cancer therapy and take the metallodrugs field to new heights.
Nonfragile robust exponential stabilization of nonlinear uncertain switched systems with actuator saturation
Authors: Wang Jianlin , Zhang Xinquan
Published: September 2022

For nonlinear uncertain switched systems, the problem of how to overcome the controller vulnerability is studied when the actuator saturation is considered. The sufficient condition for guaranteeing nonfragile robust exponential stabilization of the system is derived by using the method of minimum dwell time. Then, a switching law and the nonfragile state feedback controllers are designed such that the closed‐loop system can be robustly exponentially stabilized at the origin. Next, when some scalar parameters of the closed‐loop system are given, the design issue of the nonfragile state feedback controllers, which aim at enlarging the estimation of domain of attraction for closed‐loop system, is transformed into a convex optimization issue with linear matrix inequalities (LMI) constraints. Finally, an example is given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
An update on the molecular biology of glioblastoma, with clinical implications and progress in its treatment
Authors: Verdugo Elena , Puerto Iker , Medina Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2022

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive and common malignant primary brain tumor. Patients with GBM often have poor prognoses, with a median survival of ∼15 months. Enhanced understanding of the molecular biology of central nervous system tumors has led to modifications in their classifications, the most recent of which classified these tumors into new categories and made some changes in their nomenclature and grading system. This review aims to give a panoramic view of the last 3 years’ findings in glioblastoma characterization, its heterogeneity, and current advances in its treatment. Several molecular parameters have been used to achieve an accurate and personalized characterization of glioblastoma in patients, including epigenetic, genetic, transcriptomic and metabolic features, as well as age‐ and sex‐related patterns and the involvement of several noncoding RNAs in glioblastoma progression. Astrocyte‐like neural stem cells and outer radial glial‐like cells from the subventricular zone have been proposed as agents involved in GBM of IDH‐wildtype origin, but this remains controversial. Glioblastoma metabolism is characterized by upregulation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, promotion of the glycolytic flux, maintenance of lipid storage, and other features. This metabolism also contributes to glioblastoma's resistance to conventional therapies. Tumor heterogeneity, a hallmark of GBM, has been shown to affect the genetic expression, modulation of metabolic pathways, and immune system evasion. GBM's aggressive invasion potential is modulated by cell‐to‐cell crosstalk within the tumor microenvironment and altered expressions of specific genes, such asANXA2,GBP2,FN1,PHIP, andGLUT3. Nevertheless, the rising number of active clinical trials illustrates the efforts to identify new targets and drugs to treat this malignancy. Immunotherapy is still relevant for research purposes, given the amount of ongoing clinical trials based on this strategy to treat GBM, and neoantigen and nucleic acid‐based vaccines are gaining importance due to their antitumoral activity by inducing the immune response. Furthermore, there are clinical trials focused on the PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis, angiogenesis, and tumor heterogeneity for developing molecular‐targeted therapies against GBM. Other strategies, such as nanodelivery and computational models, may improve the drug pharmacokinetics and the prognosis of patients with GBM.
Pediatric Early Warning Systems (PEWS) improve provider‐family communication from the provider perspective in pediatric cancer patients experiencing clinical deterioration
Authors: Gillipelli Srinithya R. , Kaye Erica C. , Garza Marcela , Ferrara Gia , Rodriguez Mario , Soberanis Vasquez Dora Judith , Mendez Aceituno Alejandra , Antillón‐Klussmann Federico , Gattuso Jami S. , Mandrell Belinda N. , Baker Justin N. , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos , Agulnik Asya , Graetz Dylan E.
Published: September 2022

Background

Communication between providers and patients' families is an integral part of clinical care. Family concern is a validated component of Pediatric Early Warning Systems (PEWS); however, little is known about the impact of PEWS on provider‐family communication.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 83 ward and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) providers involved in the care of patients with deterioration at two pediatric oncology hospitals of different resource levels: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (n = 42) in the United States and Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica (UNOP, n = 41) in Guatemala. Interviews were conducted in the participants' native language (English or Spanish), transcribed, and translated into English. Transcripts were coded by two researchers and analyzed for thematic content surrounding family communication and concern.

Results

All participants recognized patients' families as a valuable part of the care team, particularly during events requiring escalation of care. Perceived barriers to communication included limited time spent at the bedside, and, at UNOP, language and literacy challenges which occasionally limited providers' ability to assess family concern and involve families in patient care. Despite these barriers, providers perceived PEWS improved communication by facilitating more interaction with families, allowing for relationship‐building, anticipatory guidance, and destigmatization of the PICU. PEWS assessments also allowed families to contribute to identification of deterioration.

Conclusions

PEWS improve the quality of communication between providers and families by providing more opportunities for interaction, building relationships, and trust. These findings further support the use of PEWS in the care of children with cancer in hospitals of all resource‐levels.
Deregulation of PRDM5 promotes cell proliferation by regulating JAK/STAT signaling pathway through SOCS1 in human lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ren Yuanyuan , Wang Ye , Fang Lijiao , Ma Mengchu , Ge Lin , Su Chao , Xin Lingbiao , He Jinyan , Yang Jie , Liu Xin
Published: September 2022

Background

PRDM5 is considered a tumor suppressor in several types of solid tumors and is involved in multiple cellular processes. However, target genes regulated by PRDM5 in lung cancer and its potential mechanism are poorly defined.

Methods

Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan‐Meier estimates based on the online databases. RNA‐sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were performed to identify the differentially expressed genes in PRDM5‐overexpressed A549 cells.

Results

We observed deregulated PRDM5 in several lung adenocarcinoma cell lines and its association with a poor prognosis. PRDM5 overexpression inhibited the proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma cells in vitro and suppressed tumor growth in a xenograft model. PRDM5 upregulated the promoter activity of SOCS1, which then inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the low expression of PRDM5 promotes the proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma cells by downregulating SOCS1 and then upregulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.
Differences in the performance of adjuvant chemotherapy between hemodialysis and nonhemodialysis patients
Authors: Ishii Taisuke , Watanabe Tomone , Higashi Takahiro
Published: September 2022

Background

The survival of hemodialysis (HD) patients with cancer is poor, which may be caused by undertreatment due to renal dysfunction. Particularly, adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery may be considered optional because of its preventive nature. This study investigated the current frequency of administration of adjuvant chemotherapy to HD patients compared with non‐HD patients in Japan.

Methods

We used data from the Hospital‐Based Cancer Registries national database linked to health services utilization data to analyze cases of newly diagnosed colon cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, and non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at the stages where adjuvant chemotherapy is generally required. We compared the performance rate of adjuvant chemotherapy and the adjuvant chemotherapy regimens between HD and non‐HD patients from October 2011 to December 2017.

Results

Of the 99,761 patients who underwent curative surgery, 1207 (1%) were HD patients. HD patients received adjuvant chemotherapy less frequently than non‐HD patients (24% vs. 63%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders, HD remained negatively related to adjuvant chemotherapy administration for all four cancer types. Among all patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy 0(N = 61,873), HD patients were less likely to receive standard regimens and chemotherapy requiring dose adjustment than non‐HD patients (88% vs. 95%, p < 0.001 and 92% vs. 98%, p < 0.001, respectively). This trend was particularly pronounced among patients with gastric cancer.

Conclusions

HD patients were less likely to receive adjuvant chemotherapy with standard regimens than non‐HD patients.
Redox Biocatalysis: Quantitative Comparisons of Nicotinamide Cofactor Regeneration Methods
Authors: Sharma Victor K. , Hutchison Justin M. , Allgeier Alan M.
Published: September 2022

Enzymatic processes, particularly those capable of performing redox reactions, have recently been of growing research interest. Substrate specificity, optimal activity at mild temperatures, high selectivity, and yield are among the desirable characteristics of these oxidoreductase catalyzed reactions. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) or NAD(P)H‐dependent oxidoreductases have been extensively studied for their potential applications like biosynthesis of chiral organic compounds, construction of biosensors, and pollutant degradation. One of the main challenges associated with making these processes commercially viable is the regeneration of the expensive cofactors required by the enzymes. Numerous efforts have pursued enzymatic regeneration of NAD(P)H by coupling a substrate reduction with a complementary enzyme catalyzed oxidation of a co‐substrate. While offering excellent selectivity and high total turnover numbers, such processes involve complicated downstream product separation of a primary product from the coproducts and impurities. Alternative methods comprising chemical, electrochemical, and photochemical regeneration have been developed with the goal of enhanced efficiency and operational simplicity compared to enzymatic regeneration. Despite the goal, however, the literature rarely offers a meaningful comparison of the total turnover numbers for various regeneration methodologies. This comprehensive Review systematically discusses various methods of NAD(P)H cofactor regeneration and quantitatively compares performance across the numerous methods. Further, fundamental barriers to enhanced cofactor regeneration in the various methods are identified, and future opportunities are highlighted for improving the efficiency and sustainability of commercially viable oxidoreductase processes for practical implementation.
Family of single‐phase high‐frequency isolated AC–AC converters
Authors: Cipriano da Silva Filho Olympio , Tofoli Fernando Lessa , Colado Barreto Luiz Henrique Silva , de Souza Oliveira Demercil
Published: September 2022

This work presents a family of single‐phase ac–ac converters with high‐frequency isolation based on the association of interleaved transformers and the dual active bridge (DAB) converter. From distinct configurations of the dc link in terms of half‐bridge (HB), full‐bridge (FB), and interleaved full‐bridge (IFB) arrangements, one can obtain three symmetrical and six asymmetrical structures, with distinct trade‐offs among the number of active switches, total dc‐link voltage, and effective operating frequency of the filter elements. Prominent advantages of the derived circuits include input power factor correction (PFC), a nearly sinusoidal load voltage, the operation of active switches under soft‐switching condition during part of the line period, reduced current stresses, good current sharing due to the interleaved transformers, as well as multilevel voltage waveforms on both sides of the high‐frequency transformer (HFT). Experimental results obtained from an experimental prototype of an ac–ac FB‐IFB converter are presented to validate the theoretical assumptions.
Observation is an important leadership skill
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: September 2022

A few months ago, my siblings and I agreed it was necessary to place my mother in a skilled nursing facility. It's something you swear you'll never do, but at 91, with congestive heart failure and progressing vascular dementia, it was the best decision for everyone.
Using relative brain size as predictor variable: Serious pitfalls and solutions
Authors: Smeele Simeon Q.
Published: September 2022

There is a long‐standing interest in the effect of relative brain size on other life history variables in a comparative context. Historically, residuals have been used to calculate these effects, but more recently it has been recognized that regression on residuals is not good practice. Instead, absolute brain size and body size are included in a multiple regression, with the idea that this controls for allometry. I use a simple simulation to illustrate how a case in which brain size is a response variable differs from a case in which relative brain size is a predictor variable. I use the simulated data to test which modeling approach can estimate the underlying causal effects for each case. The results show that a multiple regression model with both body size and another variable as predictor variable and brain size as response variable work well. However, if relative brain size is a predictor variable, a multiple regression fails to correctly estimate the effect of body size. I propose the use of structural equation models to simultaneously estimate relative brain size and its effect on the third variable and discuss other potential methods.
Oxygen reactivity regulation via double‐exchange interaction for enhanced water oxidation
Authors: Zhang Ning , Wang Cong , Chen Jiewei , Chai Yang
Published: September 2022

The sluggish kinetics of anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) largely impedes the energy conversion efficiency in electrolytic industries. Fundamentally, the OER process is governed by the chemical reactivity of oxygen intermediates. Here, we demonstrate an effective approach to regulate the oxygen reactivity through the double‐exchange interaction (DEI) towards OER activity improvement, using Ti‐substituted pyrochlore ruthenate Y2Ru2−xTixO7 as model catalyst. We unveil that DEI‐induced electron hopping in asymmetric Ru‐O‐Ti backbone enables the charge depletion in Ru active center to tune on the oxygen activation by ligand hole introduction. In addition, the ferromagnetic nature of DEI constructs a spin‐selected channel for charge transport to govern the spin state in oxygen intermediates. Such comprehensive manipulation of oxygen reactivity substantially facilitates the nucleophilic attack process during O–O coupling as rate‐determining step, lowering the energy barrier to improve the intrinsic OER activity.

image
Lactic acid bacteria isolated from traditional Iranian butter with probiotic and cholesterol‐lowering properties: In vitro and in situ activity
Authors: Ostadzadeh Mahbubeh , Habibi Najafi Mohammad B. , Ehsani Mohammad R.
Published: September 2022

Producing butter from yogurt is known as a traditional way practiced in Iran and elsewhere, particularly in rural areas. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with probiotic and cholesterol‐lowering properties were isolated from traditional butter collected in different regions of Iran. Then, isolates were identified and applied as adjunct culture in industrial butter production. Ten samples of traditional Iranian butter were collected from local farms. Fifty‐four isolates were considered LAB due to biochemical examinations. Molecular techniques then identified 10 strains showing high cholesterol reduction ability and tolerated bile and acid. The sequence analysis revealed that four isolates belonged to Enterococcus durans, four isolates to Lactobacillus, one isolate to Pediococcus, and one isolate to Neoscardovia. Lactobacillus brevis IBRC‐M 11044, Pediococcus pentosaceus IBRC‐M 11045, Neoscardovia arbecensis IBRC‐M 4391 4378, and Lactobacillus pentosus IBRC‐M 11043 were selected and applied as adjunct culture in producing four treatments of industrial butter. All examined strain treatments showed significant changes in cholesterol level of butter samples. Furthermore in all samples, the cholesterol content was significantly lower than control (p < .5). The highest level of cholesterol reduction was achieved in the butter sample prepared by Lactobacillus pentosus IBRC‐M 11045. Sensory analysis showed that the butter sample with Neoscardovia arbecensis IBRC‐M 4391 4378 was more acceptable than other butter samples. Due to our finding, it is valuable to incorporate these strains in butter production and introduce novel functional butter to market.
Insights into deep metallogenic setting inSEChina based on geophysical data
Authors: Bi Benteng , Hu Xiangyun , Li Jingwen , Xu Shan
Published: September 2022

SE China is regarded as one of the most important mineral resource bases in China. The spatio‐temporal distribution of the magmatism and mineralization in the area has a distinct pattern due to the uneven intensity of crust–mantle interactions. We analysed gravity, magnetic and magnetotelluric (MT) data from the study area. The lithosphere in the north‐eastern and coastal parts of South China features intense magnetic, low resistivity anomalies and low density of lithospheric mantle material components. Meanwhile, the crust in the Nanling region features high resistivity and low magnetic granitic pluton. As we view from the north‐east to the south‐west, the crust–mantle interaction in SE China weakens unevenly and the magmatic origins for ore‐forming are progressively shallow. In the continental margin area, the subducted plate partially melted and rose along deep faults, interacting with the lithospheric mantle, which created conditions for the formation of the large porphyry Cu deposits. In the inland Nanling region, the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate has subducted to a considerable depth, the influence of deep disturbances was diminished, and therefore the metallogenic magmas of W–Sn deposits are dominated by continental crust remelting granites. While the tectonic environment of the Pb–Zn–Ag polymetallic deposits is in a transitional zone between porphyry Cu deposits and W–Sn deposits, small amounts of femic magma mixed with large amounts of granitic magma to form the mineralized granites. The geophysical data provide corresponding evidence to support the mineralization dynamics model based on oblique Pacific subduction.
Origin of organic matter and depositional characteristics of early Cambrian Niutitang Formation from South China: New insights using molecular fossils
Authors: Awan Rizwan Sarwar , Liu Chenglin , Feng Dehao , Zang Qibiao , Wu Yuping , Ali Sajjad
Published: September 2022

The early Cambrian Niutitang Formation is broadly developed in South China, especially in the Yangtze region. This research explains the nature of hydrocarbons through bitumen fractions of the early Cambrian sediments of the Niutitang Formation. For this purpose, source rock samples from two diverse outcrop sections are utilized for total organic carbon content (TOC), solvent extraction, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Results show a lower quantity of extractable organic matter in these older sediments because of higher maturation history. The presence of monomethyl alkanes suggests the contribution of prokaryotic organisms, whereas the presence of hopanoids and C27–C29 steranes shows the occurrence of eukaryotic algal sources in organic matter. Likewise, C30‐4‐methyl sterane, dinosteranes, and ß‐carotene also suggested incorporating prokaryotic and eukaryotic sources during the early Cambrian period. Various hopanoid parameters, alkylated aromatic isomers, triaromatic steroids, and vitrinite reflectance via methyl‐phenanthrene index reveal mature to higher thermal evolution levels of these lower Palaeozoic sediments. Similarly, a higher abundance of polyaromatic pyrene and fluoranthene indicates mature organic matter, and their presence could be due to hydrothermal action. The higher gammacerane index, lower pristine/phytane, and the presence of C30 dimethyl steranes indicate the anoxic saline sedimentary condition throughout the deposition of these lower Palaeozoic Niutitang Formation. The early Cambrian Niutitang Formation is deposited in an oxygen‐deficient environment and contains an adequate amount of mature‐high mature organic matter that could have the potential to produce gaseous hydrocarbons.
The future of global strategy
Authors: Benito Gabriel R.G. , Cuervo‐Cazurra Alvaro , Mudambi Ram , Pedersen Torben , Tallman Steve
Published: September 2022

Research Summary

Global strategy, that is, the analysis of strategy in an international context, has co‐evolved with the dramatic changes in the global economy in the 21st century. Research advances have enabled a more sophisticated understanding of how firms develop strategies in an increasingly turbulent global environment in which societal expectations, technological advances, and political decisions are all in a state of continuous change. In this article, we reflect and provide suggestions for how the field may evolve on five key themes of global strategy: cooperation, coordination, governance, politics, and innovation. We also outline suggestions for future research on global issues that are gaining increasing centrality in business decisions: climate change, artificial intelligence, and geopolitics.

Managerial Summary

The study of how the context affects firms' strategies has changed with the transformation of the world in the 21st century. Research has provided a better understanding of how managers create and implement strategies in response to changes in societal expectations, technological advances, and political decisions. In this article, we reflect and provide suggestions for future studies on five key themes of global strategy: cooperation, coordination, governance, politics, and innovation in multinationals. We also outline suggestions for analyzing the increasingly important grand challenges that affect business decisions: climate change, artificial intelligence, and geopolitics.
Spontaneous brain activity abnormalities in migraine: A meta‐analysis of functional neuroimaging
Authors: Cai Mengjing , Liu Jiawei , Wang Xuexiang , Ma Juanwei , Ma Lin , Liu Mengge , Zhao Yao , Wang He , Fu Dianxun , Wang Wenqin , Xu Qiang , Guo Lining , Liu Feng
Published: September 2022

Neuroimaging studies have demonstrated that migraine is accompanied by spontaneous brain activity alterations in specific regions. However, these findings are inconsistent, thus hindering our understanding of the potential neuropathology. Hence, we performed a quantitative whole‐brain meta‐analysis of relevant resting‐state functional imaging studies to identify brain regions consistently involved in migraine. A systematic search of studies that investigated the differences in spontaneous brain activity patterns between migraineurs and healthy controls up to April 2022 was conducted. We then performed a whole‐brain voxel‐wise meta‐analysis using the anisotropic effect size version of seed‐based d mapping software. Complementary analyses including jackknife sensitivity analysis, heterogeneity test, publication bias test, subgroup analysis, and meta‐regression analysis were conducted as well. In total, 24 studies that reported 31 datasets were finally eligible for our meta‐analysis, including 748 patients and 690 controls. In contrast to healthy controls, migraineurs demonstrated consistent and robust decreased spontaneous brain activity in the angular gyrus, visual cortex, and cerebellum, while increased activity in the caudate, thalamus, pons, and prefrontal cortex. Results were robust and highly replicable in the following jackknife sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis. Meta‐regression analyses revealed that a higher visual analog scale score in the patient sample was associated with increased spontaneous brain activity in the left thalamus. These findings provided not only a comprehensive overview of spontaneous brain activity patterns impairments, but also useful insights into the pathophysiology of dysfunction in migraine.
Neuropathic pain prevalence and risk factors in head and neck cancer survivors
Authors: Rojo Raniv D. , Ren Jenny L. , Lipe Demis N. , Badr Hoda , Shete Sanjay , Hanna Ehab Y. , Reyes‐Gibby Cielito C.
Published: September 2022

Background

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a debilitating symptom among head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors although few large studies report its prevalence and associated risk factors.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey assessing demographic, behavioral, and clinical risk factors for NP. NP was assessed using the Self‐administered Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs pain scale (S‐LANSS).

Results

Forty‐five percent (227/505) reported having pain including 13.7% (69/505) who were positive for S‐LANSS. Reported pain sites were in the regions of the head and oral cavity (46.2%) and neck and throat (41.5%). Despite a higher self‐reported use of analgesic medication (NP+ = 41.2%; NP− = 27.4%; p = 0.020) and alternative pain therapies (NP+ = 19.1%; NP− = 8.4%; p = 0.009), severe pain was more prevalent among those with NP (N+ = 23.2%; NP− = 13.3%; p = 0.004). Adjusted for opioid medications, ethnicity/race, age, surgery, depression, and comorbidities were risk factors for NP.

Conclusion

NP remains prevalent in HNC survivors highlighting the importance of routine pain surveillance.
Perceived performance of health facility governing committees in overseeing healthcare services delivery in primary health care facilities in Tanzania
Authors: Kesale Anosisye M. , Jiyenze Mwandu Kini , Katalambula Leonard , Kinyaga Ally Y. , Sirili Nathanael , Ngocho James S. , Ruhago George , Kikula Amani , Kapologwe Ntuli A. , Kengia James T.
Published: September 2022

Health Facility Governing Committees (HFGCs) play a vital role in overseeing health services delivery in the primary health care system. However, despite their existence in Tanzania hiccups remain reported on the quality of health services delivered in primary health care facilities. The latter poses a question on the performance of HFGCs in overseeing the services delivery at the primary health facilities. This study sought to assess the perceived performance of the HFGCs and the associated factors in overseeing the healthcare services delivery at the primary health facilities in Tanzania. A cross‐sectional study was conducted in five regions of Tanzania: Mwanza, Dar Es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Pwani, and Arusha. A self‐administered questionnaire containing structured questions was used to gather information from randomly selected 574 HFGC members. Data were analyzed descriptively and the binary logistic regression model was used to determine factors associated with the perceived performance. Half (50.52%) of the HFGCs members perceived themselves to have good performance. Furthermore, only 51.05% of all the participants had received any form of health management and governance training whereby about two‐thirds had received training for only 1 day. The main factors associated with the perceived low performance of the HFGCs members were age, level of education and duration served in the HFGC. A low level of education was associated with the poor perceived performance of the HFGC (AOR 0.36 [CI: 0.23–0.55]). Similarly with increasing age, the odds of good‐perceived performance lowered (AOR 0.26 [CI: 0.13, 0.55]). Serving as a HFGC member for less than 1 year was associated with poor perceived performance (AOR 0.40 [CI: 0.17, 0.95]). From these findings, it is recommended that the criteria for recruitment of HFGC members should be revisited. Furthermore, a qualitative study to explore contextual factors influencing the perforce of HFGCs is recommended.
Role adjustment as the unit of analysis for researching child development during the transition to school
Authors: Ma Junqian
Published: September 2022

While child development is well‐recognized as a complex process which could hardly be decomposed into separate lines or domains in contemporary psychological theories, the decomposition approach is widely used in empirical studies. Based on the cultural‐historical theory, this study argues for adopting the unit of analysis as a way to bridge this gap, and finds “role adjustment” as a suitable unit to analyse child development during the transition to school. The case of a 5‐year‐old second‐generation Chinese Australian child's transition to school (with a total of 34 h of observation and 5 h of interview) is presented to verify its feasibility and to illustrate how it could be achieved in a research practice. The case study demonstrates that a child's role adjustment is in essence a process of transforming his/her role system, during which his/her major roles, the relation of the major roles, as well as his/her role‐taking patterns change as a whole, and by tracing a child's role adjustment trajectory, how the child is learning and developing, what difficulties he/she encounter, and why these difficulties appear become clear.
Construction of spider silk protein small‐caliber tissue engineering vascular grafts based on dynamic culture and its performance evaluation
Authors: Sun Lulu , Li Xiafei , Yang Tuo , Lu Tian , Du Pengchong , Jing Changqin , Chen Zhigang , Lin Fei , Zhao Guoan , Zhao Liang
Published: September 2022

Tissue engineering is an alternative method for preparing small‐caliber (<6 mm) vascular grafts. Dynamic mechanical conditioning is being researched as a method to improve mechanical properties of tissue engineered blood vessels. This method attempts to induce unique reaction in implanted cells that regenerate the matrix around them, thereby improving the overall mechanical stability of the grafts. In this study, we used a bioreactor to seed endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells into the inner and outer layers of the electrospun spider silk protein scaffold respectively to construct vascular grafts. The cell proliferation, mechanical properties, blood compatibility and other indicators of the vascular grafts were characterized in vitro. Furthermore, the vascular grafts were implanted in Sprague Dawley rats, and the vascular grafts' patency, extracellular matrix formation, and inflammatory response were evaluated in vivo. We aimed to construct spider silk protein vascular grafts with the potential for in vivo implantation by using a pulsating flow bioreactor. The results showed that, when compared with the static culture condition, the dynamic culture condition improved cell proliferation on vascular scaffolds and enhanced mechanical function of vascular scaffolds. In vivo experiments also showed that the dynamic culture of vascular grafts was more beneficial for the extracellular matrix deposition and anti‐thrombogenesis, as well as reducing the inflammatory response of vascular grafts. In conclusion, dynamic mechanical conditioning aid in the resolution of challenges impeding the application of electrospun scaffolds and have the potential to construct small‐caliber blood vessels with regenerative function for cardiovascular tissue repair.
Calcitriol-Dependent and -Independent Regulation of Intestinal Calcium Absorption, Osteoblast Function, and Skeletal Mineralization during Lactation and Recovery in Mice
Authors: Ryan Brittany A. , McGregor Narelle E. , Kirby Beth J. , Al-Tilissi Abdelkhayoum , Poulton Ingrid J. , Sims Natalie A. , Kovacs Christopher S.
Published: September 2022

Recovery from lactation-induced bone loss appears to be calcitriol-independent, since mice lacking 1-alpha-hydroxylase or vitamin D receptor (VDR) exhibit full skeletal recovery. However, in those studies mice consumed a calcium-, phosphorus-, and lactose-enriched “rescue” diet. Here we assessed whether postweaning skeletal recovery of Vdr null mice required that rescue diet. Wild type (WT) and Vdr null mice were raised on the rescue diet and switched to a normal (1% calcium) diet at Day 21 of lactation until 28 days after weaning. Unmated mice received the same regimen. In WT mice, cortical thickness was significantly reduced by 25% at 21 days of lactation and was completely restored by 28 days after weaning. Three-point bending tests similarly showed a significant reduction during lactation and full recovery of ultimate load and energy absorbed. Although Vdr null mice exhibited a similar lactational reduction in cortical thickness and mechanical strength, neither was even partially restored after weaning. Unmated mice showed no significant changes. In micro-computed tomography scans, diaphyses of Vdr null femora at 28 days after weaning were highly porous and exhibited abundant low-density bone extending into the marrow space from the endocortical surface. To quantify, we segregated bone into low-, mid-, and high-density components. In WT diaphyses, high-density bone was lost during lactation and restored after weaning. Vdr null mice also lost high-density bone during lactation but did not replace it; instead, they demonstrated a threefold increase in low-density bone mass. Histology revealed that intracortical and endocortical surfaces of Vdr null bones after weaning contained very thick (up to 20 micron) osteoid seams, covered with multiple layers of osteoblasts and precursors. We conclude that during the postweaning period, osteoblasts are potently stimulated to produce osteoid despite lacking VDRs, and that either calcitriol or a calcium-enriched diet are needed for this immature bone to become mineralized. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
CEBPB regulates the bile acid receptor FXR to accelerate colon cancer progression by modulating aerobic glycolysis
Authors: Wang Zhengrong , Pang Jinghuan , Wang Lingyan , Dong Qinhui , Jin Dan
Published: September 2022

Background

Aerobic glycolysis is a main characteristic of tumors, and inhibited glycolysis impedes the tumor development. Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) mainly regulates bile acid metabolism. In this research, we mainly investigated whether FXR was involved in the regulation of glycolysis in colon cancer.

Methods

The differential expression analysis was performed on FXR and Enhancer Binding Protein Beta (CEBPB) data in colon cancer downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Western blot and qRT‐PCR were used to detect the expression levels of CEBPB and FXR. The upstream gene of FXR was predicted through bioinformatic analysis. ChIP and dual luciferease assays were performed to confirm the targeted relationship between CEBPB and FXR. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was performed on FXR. Finally, the glycolysis capabilities of cells in each treatment group were detected. CCK‐8, colony formation assay and flow cytometry were performed to test proliferation and apoptosis of colon cancer cells.

Results

FXR was lowly expressed at the cell level in colon cancer. In vitro assays verified the antitumor effect of FXR on colon cancer. ChIP and dual luciferase assays verified that transcription factor CEBPB bound with the promotor region of FXR, and negatively regulated the expression of FXR. Cell function assays proved that silenced expression of FXR promoted glycolysis, which promoted the development of colon cancer cells.

Conclusion

The study on FXR‐regulated glycolysis of colon cancer cells helps us to further understand the molecular mechanism by which FXR regulated the development of colon cancer cells.
Effect of alfalfa on subsurface (tile) nitrogen and phosphorus loss in Ohio, USA
Authors: Arrueta Lourdes D. , Hanrahan Brittany , King Kevin , Kalcic Margaret
Published: September 2022

Growing annual crops such as corn (Zea mays L.) can lead to considerable nutrient losses through subsurface drainage in agricultural fields, posing a serious threat to surface water quality in the midwestern United States. Perennial crops have the potential to reduce these nutrient losses. However, more comprehensive data are needed on the nutrient loss effect of perennial crops. We examined the effect of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) on nitrate‐nitrogen (NO3−–N), total nitrogen (TN), dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP), and total phosphorus (TP) in subsurface drainage using a before–after‐control‐impact (BACI) experimental design with one control field (with annual crops) and one impact field (with alfalfa) each on two farms (Sites A and B) located in northwestern Ohio. The “Before” period (prior to planting alfalfa at the impact field) extended for 4 yr (2013–2017) at Site A and 6 yr (2011–2017) at Site B; the “After” period extended for an additional 2 yr at both sites. Reductions in the mean monthly discharge and loads of NO3−–N, TN, DRP, and TP were significant at Site A, whereas the only significant change at site B was a reduction in the mean monthly TP load. Significant reductions in NO3−–N loads were observed during spring and winter at Site A. In addition, alfalfa reduced the variability of discharge and nutrient loads through subsurface drainage at both sites. Our findings suggest that introducing alfalfa into annual crop rotations has the potential to reduce subsurface nutrient loads and increase the resiliency of agricultural systems.
Staged body disposal sites and homicide: Investigating the multivariate approach of a serial killer
Authors: Pettigrew Mark
Published: September 2022

Whilst crime scene staging in homicide, as an attempt to avoid detection, has attracted some scholarly attention in recent years, staging a body disposal site has not been similarly scrutinised. Indeed, whilst some statistical studies note moving a homicide victim's body as a distinct crime scene behaviour, there is little discussion or analysis of body disposal sites generally. This case seeks to illustrate how a body disposal site may be staged—in three different forms—and to supplement existing quantitative data on offender behaviours undertaken to avoid detection. In so doing, a new category of staging is proposed: staging a body disposal site.