bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Front Cover
Authors: Ma Ying , Dai Taiqiang , Yu Lan , Ma Lin , An Sha , Wang Yang , Liu Min , Zheng Juanjuan , Kong Liang , Zuo Chao , Gao Peng
Published: June 2023

A reflectional quantitative differential phase microscopy (RQDPM) based on polarized wavefront phase modulation and partially coherent full‐aperture illumination is introduced for imaging thick and opaque samples. RQDPM utilizes the polarization‐dependent characteristic of a phase‐type spatial light odulator to divide the object wave into two identical copies with a certain shear distance. When loading different modulation images to the spatial light modulator, phase derivative images with different shearing directions and phase shifts can be obtained. Finally, the phase distribution of the sample is obtained.

For further details please visit the article by Ying Ma, Taiqiang Dai, Lan Yu, Lin Ma, Sha An, Yang Wang, Min Liu, Juanjuan Zheng, Liang Kong, Chao Zuo, and Peng Gao (e202200325).

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A composite of polymethylmethacrylate, hydroxyapatite, and β‐tricalcium phosphate for bone regeneration in an osteoporotic rat model
Authors: Hossain Mosharraf , Jeong Je Hoon , Sultana Tamima , Kim Ju Hyung , Moon Ji Eun , Im Soobin
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to test several modifications of the polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement by incorporating osteoconductive and biodegradable materials for enhancing bone regeneration capacity in an osteoporotic rat model. Three bio‐composites (PHT‐1 [80% PMMA, 16% HA, 4% β‐TCP], PHT‐2 [70% PMMA, 24% HA, 6% β‐TCP], and PHT‐3 [30% PMMA, 56% HA, 14% β‐TCP]) were prepared using different concentrations of PMMA, hydroxyapatite (HA), and β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP). Their morphological structure was then examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and mechanical properties were determined using a MTS 858 Bionics test machine (MTS, Minneapolis, MN, USA). For in vivo studies, 35 female Wister rats (250 g, 12 weeks of age) were prepared and divided into five groups including a sham group (control), an ovariectomy‐induced osteoporosis group (OVX), an OVX with pure PMMA group (PMMA), an OVX with PHT‐2 group (PHT‐2), and an OVX with PHT‐3 group (PHT‐3). In vivo bone regeneration efficacy was assessed using micro‐CT and histological analysis after injecting the prepared bone cement into the tibial defects of osteoporotic rats. SEM investigation showed that the PHT‐3 sample had the highest porosity and roughness among all samples. In comparison to other samples, the PHT‐3 exhibited favorable mechanical properties for use in vertebroplasty procedures. Micro‐CT and histological analysis of OVX‐induced osteoporotic rats revealed that PHT‐3 was more effective in regenerating bone and restoring bone density than other samples. This study suggests that the PHT‐3 bio‐composite can be a promising candidate for treating osteoporosis‐related vertebral fractures.
Membrane‐based therapeutic plasma exchange: Proposed techniques for preventing filter failure
Authors: Elali Ibrahim , Phachu Deep , Coombs Nick , Shah Mamta , Dean Jordan , Haider Lalarukh , Wang Yanlin , Kaplan Andre A
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is commonly performed using membrane‐based TPE (mTPE) and is prone to filter failure.

Design, Setting, Participants, & Measurements

We report on 46 patients, with a total of 321 mTPE treatments using the NxStage machine. This was a retrospective study with an aim to evaluate the effect of heparin, pre‐filter saline dilution and the impact of total plasma volume exchanged (< 3 L vs. ≥3 L) on the rate of filter failure. Primary outcome was the overall rate of filter failure. Secondary outcomes included factors that may have indirectly influenced the rate of filter failure, including hematocrit, platelet count, replacement fluid (Fresh Frozen Plasma vs. albumin), and access type.

Results

We found that treatments that received both pre‐filter heparin and saline had a statistically significant decrease in filter failure rate as compared to those that received neither (28.6% vs. 5.3%, P = .001), and compared to the treatments that received pre‐filter heparin alone (14.2% vs. 5.3%, P = .015). In treatments that received both pre‐filter heparin and saline predilution, we noted a significantly higher filter failure rate when the plasma volume exchanged was ≥3 L as compared to those that had <3 L exchanged (12.2% vs. 0.9%, P = .001).

Conclusions

Rate of filter failure in mTPE can be reduced by implementing several therapeutic interventions including pre‐filter heparin and pre‐filter saline solution. These interventions were not associated with any clinically significant adverse events. Despite the above‐mentioned interventions, large plasma volume exchanges of ≥3 L can negatively impact filter life.
Enhanced myometrial vascularity and AVM: A review on diagnosis and management
Authors: Moradi Behnaz , Banihashemian Masoumeh , Sadighi Nahid , Shirali Elham , Saleem Shady Abdelsattar , Najafi Ehsan
Published: June 2023

Uterine Arteriovenous malformations (AVM) are vascular disorders characterized by complex high‐flow tangles of abnormal vessels connecting arteries and veins with bypassing capillaries. Recently, the terminology applied to describe uterine AVMs has been modified. Most AVMs are acquired. The term enhanced myometrial vascularity (EMV) is used to describe any condition in which any uterine pathology may lead to increased myometrial vascularity regardless of the absence or presence of residual tissue of gestation.
Links between gender norms and the intergenerational transmission of health information in parents carrying BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants
Authors: Gauna F. , Carof S. , Mouret‐Fourme E. , Coupier I. , Mari V. , Moretta‐Serra J. , Mancini J. , Noguès C. , Bouhnik A. D.
Published: June 2023

Understanding how gender norms affect parents' communication of genetic and cancer risk information to their children can enable healthcare professionals to better facilitate cascade genetic testing. We conducted a qualitative study with semi‐structured interviews to determine social factors associated with parents carrying the BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants who communicated cancer prevention practices to their children. Thirty adult carriers (23 women, 7 men) participated in the interviews. All had at least one child aged over 8 years old. Interview topics included their discovery of the variants, their relationship to their body and to the risk of cancer, as well as disclosure to and subsequent communication with their children after testing positive for BRCA1/2. The interviews were analyzed qualitatively, and the major themes identified were identified and compared. We described the roles played by the BRCA1/2 carriers and their partners in communicating cancer prevention practices to their children, from how they managed their own risk of cancer after testing positive, to how they disclosed the risks linked to these pathogenic variants to their children. We also described their involvement in the process of their children going for professional genetic consultation. Gender norms lead women to be more attentive than men to their own health and that of their loved ones. In the context of the transmission of genetic information to children, gender differences in behavior are reinforced by perceptions of the risks of BRCA1/2 variants and women's related health management practices. Cancer prevention is shaped by complex links between gender norms and health management practices.
Advances in management of primary myelofibrosis and polycythaemia vera: Implications in clinical practice
Authors: Amé Shanti , Barraco Fiorenza , Ianotto Jean‐Christophe , Jourdan Eric , Rey Jérôme , Viallard Jean‐François , Wémeau Mathieu , Kiladjian Jean‐Jacques
Published: June 2023

Primary myelofibrosis (PMF) and polycythaemia vera (PV) are rare BCR‐ABL1‐negative myeloproliferative neoplasms, associated with an increased risk of thrombosis, haemorrhagic complications and progression to fibrosis or leukaemia or fibrosis for PV. Both diseases are characterised by biological and clinical heterogeneity, leading to great variability in their management in routine clinical practice. In this review, we present an updated overview of the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of PMF and PV, and we discuss how our multidisciplinary expert group based across France translates this evidence‐based knowledge into routine clinical practice.
Climatological characteristics of the monsoon breaks during the southwest monsoon season of the Philippines
Authors: Olaguera Lyndon Mark P. , Manalo John A. , Matsumoto Jun
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the climatological characteristics of the monsoon breaks during the southwest monsoon season (June–September) of the Philippines from 1979 to 2020. The monsoon break is defined as a period when the average rainfall across the eight western coast stations of the Philippines decreases below 5 mm·day−1 for at least three consecutive days. About 208 monsoon break events were identified, with 131 short‐ (3–4 days; 63% of the total monsoon break events), 71 medium‐ (5–9 days; 34%) and 6 long‐duration (≥10 days; 3%) monsoon break events. The short‐ and medium‐duration monsoon breaks were found to be more frequent during June and less frequent during August. Lag composite analyses of the time series of rainfall, low level zonal wind (UWND850hPa), vertically integrated moisture flux convergence (VIMFC) and mid‐tropospheric geopotential height (HGT500hPa) relative to the starting date of the monsoon break events show that the monsoon break is characterized by decrease in rainfall, weakening of westerly winds, increase in HGT500hPa and suppression of VIMFC over Luzon Island. Further analyses of the large‐scale circulation features show the appearance of an anticyclonic circulation over Luzon Island that suppresses the rainfall in the region and westward extension of the western North Pacific Subtropical High (WNPSH). The occurrence of the monsoon break events appears to be modulated by the 30–60‐day mode of the boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO). About 39%, 55% and 82% of the short‐, medium‐ and long‐duration monsoon break events occur between Phases 1 and 4 during significant suppressed phases of the BSISO (i.e., amplitude >1), respectively. Convective activities and tropical cyclone activities are generally suppressed in these phases. The suppression of convective activities near the Philippines may facilitate the westward expansion of WNPSH, which further suppresses the rainfall and weaken the southwest monsoon.
Subgingival scaling and root planing during minimally invasive periodontal surgery: A randomized controlled split‐mouth trial
Authors: Dunegan Kara A. , Deas David E. , Powell Charles A. , Ruparel Nikita B. , Kotsakis Georgios A. , Mealey Brian L.
Published: June 2023

Background

The purpose of this randomized, controlled split‐mouth study was to evaluate a videoscope as a visual adjunct to scaling and root planing when utilized in combination with minimally invasive surgery.

Methods

Twenty‐five pairs (89 interproximal surfaces) of periodontally hopeless teeth planned for extraction were scaled and root planed with minimal surgical access using surgical loupes (control) or adjunctive use of a videoscope (test). Teeth were extracted with minimal trauma, stained with methylene blue, and photographed with a digital microscope for analysis. The primary outcome of residual calculus was calculated as a percentage of the total interproximal area of interest. Secondary outcomes included treatment time, as well as residual calculus according to probing depth, tooth location, and treatment date. Data were analyzed using Student's paired t‐tests, two‐way analyses of variance, and Spearman's correlation tests.

Results

Residual calculus area was 2.61% on control and 2.71% on test surfaces with no significant difference between groups. Subgroup analysis showed no difference in residual calculus between groups at moderate or deep sites. Treatment time per surface was significantly longer in the test group compared to the control group. Treatment order, tooth location, and operator experience did not significantly affect the primary outcome.

Conclusions

Though the videoscope provided excellent visual access, it did not improve the efficacy of root planing for flat interproximal surfaces during minimally invasive periodontal surgery. Small amounts of calculus remain after instrumentation even with minimal surgical access and when root surfaces appear visually clean and tactilely smooth.
Raman spectroscopy, assisted by X‐ray fluorescence and laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy, to characterise original and altered mineral phases in the NWA 2975 Martian shergottite
Authors: Población Iratxe , Torre‐Fdez Imanol , Aramendia Julene , López‐Reyes Guillermo , Cabalín Luisa M. , Madariaga Juan Manuel , Rull Fernando , Laserna Javier J. , Carrizo Daniel , Martínez‐Frías Jesús , Belenguer Tomás , Taravillo Mercedes , Dell'Aglio Marcella , De Giacomo Alessandro , Huidobro Jennifer , Manrique Jose Antonio , Delgado Tomás , Arana Gorka , Castro Kepa , Veneranda Marco , Sanz‐Arranz J. A. , Fortes F. Javier , García‐Gómez Laura ,   the SIGUE‐Mars team
Published: June 2023

A fragment of the NWA 2975 Martian meteorite, an enriched basaltic shergottite, was analysed to complete its geochemical characterisation performed 10 years ago. By this means, the feasibility of the employed techniques in a combined way for present and future space exploration missions can be tested. For this aim, Raman spectroscopy was used supported by micro energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (μ‐EDXRF) and laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for an accurate interpretation of molecular and elemental results. Raman spectroscopy results from two setups, InVia from Renishaw and RLS Simulator, were compared. The major minerals detected by Raman spectroscopy were pyroxenes (mainly augite, pigeonite and enstatite) and plagioclases (mainly shocked maskelynite). Raman spectroscopy allowed defining different metal compositions for these main minerals based on the secondary Raman spectroscopy bands in the 200–500 cm−1 region. In addition, other minerals were found such as merrillite, as well as pyrrhotite and apatite, in several veins and cracks of the meteorite, in agreement with the initial report by the Meteoritical Bulletin. Moreover, it should be highlighted that coesite was found for the very first time in this meteorite.
Preparation, structure characterization, and stability analysis of peptide–calcium complex derived from porcine nasal cartilage type II collagen
Authors: Cui Pengbo , Li Mengyu , Shao Tianlun , Yu Mingxiao , Zhao Weixue , Song Yanzhuo , Ding Yuting , Liu Jianhua
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Porcine nasal cartilage type II collagen‐derived peptides (PNCPs) may be complexed with calcium to provide a highly bioavailable, low‐cost, and effective calcium food supplement. However, the calcium‐binding characteristics of PNCPs have not yet been investigated. In the present study, calcium‐binding peptides were derived from porcine nasal cartilage type II collagen and the resulting PNCPs‐Ca complex was characterized.

RESULTS

The study reveals that the calcium‐binding capacity of PNCPs is closely related to enzymatic hydrolysis conditions. The highest calcium‐binding capacity of PNCPs was observed at a hydrolysis time of 4 h, temperature of 40 °C, enzyme dosage of 1%, and solid‐to‐liquid ratio of 1:10. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy revealed that the PNCPs had a pronounced capacity for calcium binding, with the PNCPs‐Ca complex exhibiting a clustered structure consisting of aggregated spherical particles. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering, amino acid composition, and molecular weight distribution analyses all indicated that the PNCPs and calcium complexed via the carboxyl oxygen and amino nitrogen atoms, leading to the formation of a β‐sheet structure during the chelation process. In addition, the stability of the PNCPs‐Ca complex was maintained over a range of pH values consistent with those found in the human gastrointestinal tract, facilitating calcium absorption.

CONCLUSION

These research findings suggest the feasibility of converting by‐products from livestock processing into calcium‐binding peptides, providing a scientific basis for the development of novel calcium supplements and the potential reduction of resource waste. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Rumination about the Russo‐Ukrainian War and its related factors among individuals in Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Li Dian‐Jeng , Chudzicka‐Czupała Agata , Paliga Mateusz , Hapon Nadiya , Karamushka Liudmyla , Żywiołek‐Szeja Marta , McIntyre Roger S. , Chiang Soon‐Kiat , Chen Yi‐Lung , Yen Cheng‐Fang , Man Roger Ho Chun
Published: June 2023

The present study aimed to investigate the factors associated with the level of rumination about the war among people living in Poland and Ukraine. This cross‐sectional study recruited internet users from advertisements on social media. Levels of rumination, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS), Impact of Event Scale‐Revised (IES‐R), time spent on news of the war, and related demographic variables were collected. The reliability and construct validity of rumination were estimated. Potential factors associated with the level of rumination were identified using univariate linear regression analysis, and further entered into a stepwise multivariate linear regression model to identify independent factors. Due to the non‐normality of distribution, multivariate linear regression with 5000 bootstrap samples was used to verify the results. A total of 1438 participants were included in the analysis, of whom 1053 lived in Poland and 385 lived in Ukraine. The questionnaires on rumination were verified to have satisfactory reliability and validity. After analysis with stepwise and bootstrap regression, older age, female gender, higher DASS and IES‐R scores, and longer time spent on news of the war were significantly associated with higher levels of rumination for both people living in Poland and Ukraine. Lower self‐rated health status, history of chronic medical illness and coronavirus disease 2019 infection were also positively associated with rumination for people living in Poland. We identified several factors associated with the level of rumination about the Russo‐Ukrainian War. Further investigations are warranted to understand how rumination affects individuals’ lives during crises such as war.
Linear versus Turbulent Airflow Tracheostomy Heat and Moisture Exchangers: A Crossover Study
Authors: Shikani Alan H. , Rohayem Ziad , D'Adamo Christopher R. , Miller Andrew C.
Published: June 2023

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of two tracheostomy heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs), namely the Shikani Oxygen HME™ (S‐O2HME, ball type, turbulent airflow) and Mallinckrodt Tracheolife II DAR HME (M‐O2HME; flapper type, linear airflow) on tracheobronchial mucosal health, oxygenation, humidification, and patient preference.

Methods

A randomized cross‐over study was conducted with HME‐naïve long‐term tracheostomy subjects at two academic medical centers. Bronchoscopy assessments of mucosal health were performed at baseline and day 5 of HME application, along with oxygen saturation (SpO2) and breathed air humidity at four oxygen flow rates (1, 2, 3, and 5 lpm). Patient preference was assessed on study conclusion.

Results

Both HMEs were associated with improved mucosal inflammation and decreased mucus production (p < 0.0002), with greater improvements in the S‐O2HME group (p < 0.007). Both HMEs improved humidity concentration at each oxygen flow rate (p < 0.0001), without significant differences between groups. SpO2 was greater for the S‐O2HME versus the M‐O2HME across all measured oxygen flow rates (p = 0.003). At low oxygen flow rates (1 or 2 lpm), the SpO2 in the S‐O2HME group was similar to that of the M‐O2HME at higher oxygen flow rates (3 or 5 lpm; p = 0.6). Ninety percent of subjects preferred the S‐O2HME.

Conclusion

Tracheostomy HME uses correlated with improved indicators of tracheobronchial mucosal health, humidity, and oxygenation. The S‐O2HME outperformed the M‐O2HME with respect to tracheobronchial inflammation, SpO2, and patient preference. Regular HME use by tracheostomy patients is recommended to optimize pulmonary health. Newer ball‐type speaking valve technology additionally allows concomitant HME and speaking valve application.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 133:3422–3428, 2023
Solar farm investment game model: A data‐driven case in Florida
Authors: Ma Junhai , Xu Tiantong
Published: June 2023

The most effective approach to subsidizing power producers in order to bolster the penetration of renewable energy is continuously debated. To address this issue, this paper undertakes an in‐depth investigation into a solar farm investment problem, aiming at capturing the common interests and frictions among the government, the solar system developer, and the utility. In this paper, both static and dynamic game models are proposed with the consideration of the uncertainty of solar power generation. Before investing in a solar farm project, a potential solar farm investor takes into account of subsidy rate regulation for utilities enacted by the government, the panel price announced by the solar developer. In this study, we identified two thresholds of solar panel cost, which provide valuable insights for government policymakers when formulating an appropriate subsidy rate for the solar energy industry. Besides, a optimal policy for each stakeholder has been exposed. The finding from the dynamic model discloses the profound influence of various behaviors on the long‐term profitability of each stakeholder. Finally, based on the real‐world solar power data in Orlando, a case study is presented to expose a more tangible prospect for industrial application.
Huntington's Disease with Small CAG Repeat Expansions
Authors: Heinzmann Anna , Sayah Sabrina , Lejeune François‐Xavier , Hahn Valérie , Teichmann Marc , Monin Marie‐Lorraine , Marchionni Enrica , Gérard Fleur , Charles Perrine , Pariente Jérémie , Durr Alexandra
Published: June 2023

Background

Carriers of small cytosine‐adenine‐guanine (CAG) repeats below 39 in the HTT gene are traditionally associated with milder Huntington's disease, but their clinical profile has not been extensively studied.

Objective

To study the phenotype of CAG36‐38 repeat carriers.

Methods

We included 35 patients and premanifest carriers of CAG36‐38 repeats. We compared clinical and neuropsychological profiles of 11 CAG36‐38 patients with 11 matched CAG40‐42 patients. In addition, we analyzed 243 CAG36‐38 individuals from the ENROLL study to complete the phenotype description.

Results

Global cognitive efficiency and performance in different cognitive subdomains were similar in small CAG36‐38 and typically CAG40‐42 expanded individuals. Chorea as the first symptom was significantly less frequent for CAG36‐38 patients (P = 0.04) despite similar total motor scores at first visit. Total motor score at last visit was significantly lower in CAG36‐38 carriers (P = 0.003). The similar cognitive and different motor profile of CAG36‐38 (n = 243) and CAG40‐42 (n = 4675) carriers was confirmed in the ENROLL database. Additionally, clinicians were significantly less confident in diagnosing Huntington's disease (P = 2.4e−8) and diagnosis happened significantly later in CAG36‐38 (P = 2.2e−6) despite a similar age at symptom onset (P = 0.29).

Conclusions

We showed that small CAG36‐38 expansion carriers had a similar cognitive profile to those with the more common CAG40‐42 expansions. These individuals may evade molecular diagnosis because of the absence of chorea rather than because of a low penetrance of symptoms. This finding should encourage neurologists to consider Huntington's disease in cognitively impaired elderly patients without typical chorea and anticipate consequences for genetic counseling in their offspring. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
StruNet: Perceptual and low‐rank regularized transformer for medical image denoising
Authors: Ma Yuhui , Yan Qifeng , Liu Yonghuai , Liu Jiang , Zhang Jiong , Zhao Yitian
Published: June 2023

Background

Various types of noise artifacts inevitably exist in some medical imaging modalities due to limitations of imaging techniques, which impair either clinical diagnosis or subsequent analysis. Recently, deep learning approaches have been rapidly developed and applied on medical images for noise removal or image quality enhancement. Nevertheless, due to complexity and diversity of noise distribution representations in different medical imaging modalities, most of the existing deep learning frameworks are incapable to flexibly remove noise artifacts while retaining detailed information. As a result, it remains challenging to design an effective and unified medical image denoising method that will work across a variety of noise artifacts for different imaging modalities without requiring specialized knowledge in performing the task.

Purpose

In this paper, we propose a novel encoder‐decoder architecture called Swin transformer‐based residual u‐shape Network (StruNet), for medical image denoising.

Methods

Our StruNet adopts a well‐designed block as the backbone of the encoder‐decoder architecture, which integrates Swin Transformer modules with residual block in parallel connection. Swin Transformer modules could effectively learn hierarchical representations of noise artifacts via self‐attention mechanism in non‐overlapping shifted windows and cross‐window connection, while residual block is advantageous to compensate loss of detailed information via shortcut connection. Furthermore, perceptual loss and low‐rank regularization are incorporated into loss function respectively in order to constrain the denoising results on feature‐level consistency and low‐rank characteristics.

Results

To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, we have conducted experiments on three medical imaging modalities including computed tomography (CT), optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that the proposed architecture yields a promising performance of suppressing multiform noise artifacts existing in different imaging modalities.
Optimizing variable flip angles in magnetization‐prepared gradient‐echo sequences for efficient 3D‐T1ρ mapping
Authors: Zibetti Marcelo V. W. , De Moura Hector L. , Keerthivasan Mahesh B. , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To optimize the choice of the flip angles of magnetization‐prepared gradient‐echo sequences for improved accuracy, precision, and speed of 3D‐T1ρ mapping.

Methods

We propose a new optimization approach for finding variable flip‐angle values that improve magnetization‐prepared gradient‐echo sequences used for 3D‐T1ρ mapping. This new approach can improve the accuracy and SNR, while reducing filtering effects. We demonstrate the concept in the three different versions of the magnetization‐prepared gradient‐echo sequences that are typically used for 3D‐T1ρ mapping and evaluate their performance in model agarose phantoms (n = 4) and healthy volunteers (n = 5) for knee joint imaging. We also tested the optimization with sequence parameters targeting faster acquisitions.

Results

Our results show that optimized variable flip angle can improve the accuracy and the precision of the sequences, seen as a reduction of the mean of normalized absolute difference from about 5%–6% to 3%–4% in model phantoms and from 15%–16% to 11%–13% in the knee joint, and improving SNR from about 12–28 to 22–32 in agarose phantoms and about 7–14 to 13–17 in healthy volunteers. The optimization can also compensate for the loss in quality caused by making the sequence faster. This results in sequence configurations that acquire more data per unit of time with SNR and mean of normalized absolute difference measurements close to its slower versions.

Conclusion

The optimization of the variable flip angle can be used to increase accuracy and precision, and to improve the speed of the typical imaging sequences used for quantitative 3D‐T1ρ mapping of the knee joint.
Study of micro‐elongated thermoelastic medium loaded with a piezoelectric layer under the influence of gravity using the dual‐phase‐lag model
Authors: Othman Mohamed I. A. , Eraki Ebtesam E. M. , Ismail Mohamed F.
Published: June 2023

This paper aims to examine the influence of gravity on a thermoelastic micro‐elongated layer when a piezoelectric layer is above it, utilizing the theory of Lord–Shulman (L–S) and also the model of dual‐phase‐lag (DPL). A partial differential equation was transformed into an ordinary differential equation using the normal mode analysis. Aluminum epoxy numerical computations are carried out, and the results are presented in graphical format. The L–S theory and the model of DPL are compared in the presence and absence of gravity and it is found that gravity has quite a massive influence on all the physical quantities.
Exploring fundraising executives' careers in arts and culture: The role of tenure and career switching
Authors: Massi Marta , Carbonare Piergiacomo Mion Dalle , Prokupek Marek , Turrini Alex
Published: June 2023

Fundraisers play a crucial role in helping arts and culture organizations obtain the financial resources they need to carry out their missions and support their causes. However, research on fundraisers' careers is still in its infancy. As the profession gains importance, understanding the main motivating factors of fundraisers' career paths is key. This study investigates the effects of three variables that emerged as relevant motivations for fundraiser careers, that is, education, career promotion and sector experience, on fundraising executives' tenure and career switching. In addition, this research identifies profiles of fundraising executives in the arts and culture organizations in the United States. Moreover, this study explores the role of non‐profit orientation as a moderator of the relationship between career switching and tenure, and parallel titles as a moderator of the relationship between sector experience and tenure. Managerial implications are outlined.
Rh(III)‐Catalyzed C‐2 Alkylation of Indoles followed by a Post‐Synthetic Modification via the Ugi Reaction
Authors: Januário Marcelo Augusto Pereira , de Souza Demetrius P. , Zukerman‐Schpector Julio , Corrêa Arlene G.
Published: June 2023

Indole derivatives substituted at the C‐2 position have shown important biological activities. Due to these properties, several methods have been described for the preparation of structurally diverse indoles. In this work, we have synthesized highly functionalized indole derivatives via Rh(III)‐catalyzed C‐2 alkylation with nitroolefins. Under the optimized condition, 23 examples were prepared with 39–80 % yield. Moreover, the nitro compounds were reduced and submitted to the Ugi four‐component reaction, furnishing a series of new indole‐peptidomimetics in moderate to good overall yields.
A review of the unintended gender effects of international development efforts
Authors: van der Harst Maria , Koch Dirk‐Jan , van den Brink Marieke
Published: June 2023

There is widespread recognition among scholars, international aid providers and evaluators of the need to take into account the unintended outcomes of international development efforts. Practitioners have also signed on to charters that promise they will do their utmost best to ‘do no harm’. This article focusses on the often overlooked unintended gender effects. A rigorous literature review was conducted to reveal some of the most prominent unintended consequences as documented in primary research in development studies. Five prevalent unintended gender effects were identified: (1) household dynamics, (2) anti‐foreign backfire, (3) overburdening of women, (4) human trafficking and sexual exploitation and (5) hype. While not all of the unintended gender effects are negative, most of the reported unintended effects jeopardise the intended outcomes of the interventions. This research provides both a call and a tool to analyse more systematically the unintended gender effects of international development efforts.
Multifunctional composite foam with high strength and sound‐absorbing based on step assembly strategy for high performance electromagnetic shielding
Authors: Huang Chen‐Hung , Dong Yu‐En
Published: June 2023

Soft polyurethane (PU) materials exhibit excellent structural stability, sound absorption and heat insulation, and they can be used to prepare multifunctional conductive composites with electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding function. On the basis of a multistep assembly strategy, our study constructed composite foams with sound absorption and EMI shielding properties by designing different functional layers and expanded the application field of PU foam. First, carbon black particles are compounded with PU foam to improve the mechanical properties and conductivity of pure foam. Then, an aluminum layer and a knitted fabric layer were introduced to construct composite foam samples with a sandwich structure, endowing the materials with excellent EMI shielding performance. The resultant composite foam material exhibits effective EMI shielding performance and good sound absorption performance, which are 58.33 dB and >0.3, respectively. Moreover, the composite foam material demonstrates high bursting strength and compression resistance, suggesting that it can be used under different conditions. The employment of the multistep assembly strategy provides PU foam with a flexible range of applications, offering an innovative approach for preparing multifunctional conductive composite materials.
Evaluating the maturation of mental health systems in developing countries
Authors: Nishio Akihiro , Marutani Toshiyuki
Published: June 2023

Background

Given the need for a simple tool to evaluate mental healthcare provision at the local level, we compared the duration of untreated mental illness (DUM) and duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) between rural and urban areas in Cambodia, and Cambodia's DUP was also compared with that of other countries.

Methods

DUM and background data were obtained at the first consultation from 940 participants in Phnom Penh (PP), the capital city, and Siem Reap province (SR) in 2016–2017. DUP data were obtained from DUM by excluding individuals with nonpsychotic mental illnesses (e.g., mood disorders, neurotic disorders, substance use, epilepsy). Student's t‐test was used to compare DUM and DUP, and analysis of variance was conducted to identify associations.

Results

Mean DUM significantly differed between PP (0.6 [SD 2.3] years) and SR (4.2 [5.9] years). Mean DUP was also significantly different (0.5 [2.2] years in PP vs. 4.3 [6.7] years in SR). DUM was strongly associated with DUP. The prevalence of the various disorders differed between rural and urban areas. DUM also varied by diagnosis, indicating that DUP is a better index than DUM. However, in some cases DUM can be used, given its strong association with DUP. DUP in PP was almost the same as in developed countries and was about four times longer in SR.

Conclusion

DUP in rural areas is much longer than in urban areas in developing countries. Although DUP is an effective index, more data from other places and before/after interventions are required to verify it further.
Insights into the catalytic mechanism of a bacterial deglycase essential for utilization of fructose‐lysine
Authors: Kovvali Sravya , Gao Yuan , Cool Austin , Lindert Steffen , Wysocki Vicki H. , Bell Charles E. , Gopalan Venkat
Published: June 2023

Amadori rearrangement products are stable sugar‐amino acid conjugates that are formed nonenzymatically during preparation, dehydration, and storage of foods. Because Amadori compounds such as fructose‐lysine (F‐Lys), an abundant constituent in processed foods, shape the animal gut microbiome, it is important to understand bacterial utilization of these fructosamines. In bacteria, F‐Lys is first phosphorylated, either during or after uptake to the cytoplasm, to form 6‐phosphofructose‐lysine (6‐P‐F‐Lys). FrlB, a deglycase, then converts 6‐P‐F‐Lys to L‐lysine and glucose‐6‐phosphate. Here, to elucidate the catalytic mechanism of this deglycase, we first obtained a 1.8‐Å crystal structure of Salmonella FrlB (without substrate) and then used computational approaches to dock 6‐P‐F‐Lys on this structure. We also took advantage of the structural similarity between FrlB and the sugar isomerase domain of Escherichia coli glucosamine‐6‐phosphate synthase (GlmS), a related enzyme for which a structure with substrate has been determined. An overlay of FrlB—6‐P‐F‐Lys on GlmS—fructose‐6‐phosphate structures revealed parallels in their active‐site arrangement and guided our selection of seven putative active‐site residues in FrlB for site‐directed mutagenesis. Activity assays with eight recombinant single‐substitution mutants identified residues postulated to serve as the general acid and general base in the FrlB active site and indicated unexpectedly significant contributions from their proximal residues. By exploiting native mass spectrometry (MS) coupled to surface‐induced dissociation, we distinguished mutations that impaired substrate binding versus cleavage. As demonstrated with FrlB, an integrated approach involving x‐ray crystallography, in silico approaches, biochemical assays, and native MS can synergistically aid structure–function and mechanistic studies of enzymes.
An efficient computational protocol for template‐based design of peptides that inhibit interactions involving SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins
Authors: Chenna Akshay , Khan Wajihul Hasan , Dash Rozaleen , Saraswat Saurabh , Chugh Archana , Rathore Anurag S. , Goel Gaurav
Published: June 2023

The RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) complex of SARS‐CoV‐2 lies at the core of its replication and transcription processes. The interfaces between holo‐RdRp subunits are highly conserved, facilitating the design of inhibitors with high affinity for the interaction interface hotspots. We, therefore, take this as a model protein complex for the application of a structural bioinformatics protocol to design peptides that inhibit RdRp complexation by preferential binding at the interface of its core subunit nonstructural protein, nsp12, with accessory factor nsp7. Here, the interaction hotspots of the nsp7‐nsp12 subunit of RdRp, determined from a long molecular dynamics trajectory, are used as a template. A large library of peptide sequences constructed from multiple hotspot motifs of nsp12 is screened in‐silico to determine sequences with high geometric complementarity and interaction specificity for the binding interface of nsp7 (target) in the complex. Two lead designed peptides are extensively characterized using orthogonal bioanalytical methods to determine their suitability for inhibition of RdRp complexation. Binding affinity of these peptides to accessory factor nsp7, determined using a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay, is slightly better than that of nsp12: dissociation constant of 133nM and 167nM, respectively, compared to 473nM for nsp12. A competitive ELISA is used to quantify inhibition of nsp7‐nsp12 complexation, with one of the lead peptides giving an IC50 of 25μM . Cell penetrability and cytotoxicity are characterized using a cargo delivery assay and MTT cytotoxicity assay, respectively. Overall, this work presents a proof‐of‐concept of an approach for rational discovery of peptide inhibitors of SARS‐CoV‐2 protein–protein interactions.
Magnolol alleviates pulmonary fibrosis inchronic obstructive pulmonary disease by targeting transient receptor potential vanilloid 4‐ankyrin repeat domain
Authors: Niu Lin , Lu Yu‐jie , Zu Xing‐wang , Yang Wen , Shen Fu‐kui , Xu Yan‐yan , Jiang Min , Xie Yang , Li Su‐yun , Gao Jie , Bai Gang
Published: June 2023

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) plays a role in regulating pulmonary fibrosis (PF). While several TRPV4 antagonists including magnolol (MAG), have been discovered, the mechanism of action is not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the effect of MAG on alleviating fibrosis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) based on TRPV4, and to further analyze its mechanism of action on TRPV4. COPD was induced using cigarette smoke and LPS. The therapeutic effect of MAG on COPD‐induced fibrosis was evaluated. TRPV4 was identified as the main target protein of MAG using target protein capture with MAG probe and drug affinity response target stability assay. The binding sites of MAG at TRPV4 were analyzed using molecular docking and small molecule interaction with TRPV4‐ankyrin repeat domain (ARD). The effects of MAG on TRPV4 membrane distribution and channel activity were analyzed by co‐immunoprecipitation, fluorescence co‐localization, and living cell assay of calcium levels. By targeting TRPV4‐ARD, MAG disrupted the binding between phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase γ and TRPV4, leading to hampered membrane distribution on fibroblasts. Additionally, MAG competitively impaired ATP binding to TRPV4‐ARD, inhibiting TRPV4 channel opening activity. MAG effectively blocked the fibrotic process caused by mechanical or inflammatory signals, thus alleviating PF in COPD. Targeting TRPV4‐ARD presents a novel treatment strategy for PF in COPD.
Apoptotic and anti‐Warburg effect of Morusin via ROS mediated inhibition of FOXM1/c‐Myc signaling in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Koo Ja Il , Sim Deok Yong , Lee Hyo‐Jung , Ahn Chi‐Hoon , Park JiEon , Park Su‐Yeon , Lee Dain , Shim Bum‐Sang , Kim Bonglee , Kim Sung‐Hoon
Published: June 2023

Though Morusin is known to induce apoptotic, antiprolifertaive, and autophagic effects through several signaling pathways, the underlying molecular mechanisms of Morusin still remain unclear until now. To elucidate antitumor mechanism of Morusin, cytotoxicity assay, cell cycle analysis, Western blotting, TUNEL assay, RNA interference, immunofluorescense, immunoprecipitation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) measurement, and inhibitor study were applied in this study. Morusin enhanced cytotoxicity, increased the number of TUNEL positive cells, sub‐G1 population and induced the cleavages of PARP and caspase3, attenuated the expression of HK2, PKM2, LDH, c‐Myc, and Forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1) along with the reduction of glucose, lactate, and ATP in DU145 and PC3 cells. Furthermore, Morusin disrupted the binding of c‐Myc and FOXM1 in PC‐3 cells, which was supported by String and cBioportal database. Notably, Morusin induced c‐Myc degradation mediated by FBW7 and suppressed c‐Myc stability in PC3 cells exposed to MG132 and cycloheximide. Also, Morusin generated ROS, while NAC disrupted the capacity of Morusin to reduce the expression of FOXM1, c‐Myc, pro‐PARP, and pro‐caspase3 in PC‐3 cells. Taken together, these findings provide scientific evidence that ROS mediated inhibition of FOXM1/c‐Myc signaling axis plays a critical role in Morusin induced apoptotic and anti‐Warburg effect in prostate cancer cells. Our findings support scientific evidence that ROS mediated inhibition of FOXM1/c‐Myc signaling axis is critically involved in apoptotic and anti‐Warburg effect of Morusin in prostate cancer cells.
Primary pulmonary lymphoma diagnosed by ultrasound‐guided transthoracic needle biopsy
Authors: Sekimoto Yasuhito , Sekiya Mitsuaki , Kohmaru Makiko , Okuma Tomoko , Tajima Manabu , Sato Hideaki , Takahashi Kazuhisa
Published: June 2023

Key message

Ultrasound‐guided transthoracic needle biopsy is a relatively safe procedure diagnosing subpleural pulmonary mass and has high sensitivity in the diagnosis of lung cancer. However, the usefulness in other rare malignancies is unknown. This case shows the effectiveness in diagnosing not only lung cancer but also rare malignancies including primary pulmonary lymphoma.
Robust adaptive dynamic memory‐event‐triggered attitude control for nonlinear multi‐UAVs resist actuator hysteresis
Authors: Shao Xinfeng , Ye Dan
Published: June 2023

This article studies the memory‐based dynamic event‐triggered (MBDET) robust adaptive fuzzy control problem for a class of uncertain nonlinear MASs subject to Backlash‐Like Hysteresis. The considered MASs are modeled as a class of nonlinear leader‐following multiagent systems with multiple inputs for each subsystem, which can be used to model multiple multi‐rotor unmanned aerial vehicle (Multi‐UAV) attitude systems. In the framework of backstepping recursive design, the fuzzy approximation technology, the parameter estimation technology, and the first‐order filtering technology are integrated, and an effective fuzzy adaptive control method is proposed, which solves the problems of Backlash‐Like Hysteresis and external disturbances in the system while avoiding the “explosion of complexity”. In order to relieve the communication pressure of Multi‐UAV attitude systems, a novel dynamic memory‐event‐triggered mechanism (DMETM) based on user‐set parameters is developed. Compared with the traditional event‐triggered mechanism, this DMETM has larger triggering time intervals, effectively reduces communication frequency, and has greater flexibility in balancing system performance and communication bandwidth resource constraints. The closed‐loop stability analysis scheme for Multi‐UAV attitude systems is presented by combining the backstepping recursive design technique and Lyapunov stability theory, which proves that closed‐loop stability and tracking performance can be ensured. Finally, the design method is successfully applied to show the effectiveness of the proposed method to solve the dynamic memory‐event‐triggered attitude control problem for nonlinear Multi‐UAVs.
Bio‐geomorphic alteration through shifting flow regime in a modified monsoonal river system in Korea
Authors: Lee Chanjoo , Choi Hun , Kim Donggu , van Oorschot Mijke , Penning Ellis , Geerling Gertjan
Published: June 2023

River processes and patterns are affected by changes in the watershed driven by natural and human‐induced causes. A sudden pattern alteration from a “white river” (bare soils) to a “green river” (vegetated) influences riverine biodiversity and can increase flood risk. Despite these significant impacts, knowledge on the triggers that kickstart feedback exacerbating changes in bio‐geomorphic patterns is insufficient. In this study, we collected and analyzed detailed monitoring data on a sandy, hydro‐morphologically active, and monsoon‐driven river in Korea. The surface area covered by vegetation has been increasing; this increase intensified after the 2014–2015 drought, which provided a window of opportunity for vegetation establishment. During the drought, pioneer vegetation densely colonized bare sandbars and temporarily exposed riverbed. Despite partial rejuvenation by several subsequent floods, succession to woody vegetation occurred, resulting in a stable vegetation cover. Narrowing and incision of a low‐water channel occurred, and secondary channels formed inside the floodplain. The results of this study show a rapid bio‐geomorphic alteration triggered by the shifts in flow regime in a river primed by human‐induced changes. Furthermore, modified monsoon‐driven rivers might be on the brink of similar bio‐physical alterations triggered through shifting flow regime following climate change, leading to increased flood risk and impacts on endemic biodiversity.