bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate Financial Policy as a Factor of Corporate Sustainability and Health during COVID-19 Pandemic Period
Authors: Šabotić Zenaida , Lekpek Ahmedin
Published: December 2022

Research Question: This paper analyses whether a relationship exists between the financial policy of the companies, embodied in the structure of assets and liabilities, and their financial health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Motivation: The paper aims to consider the impact of changes in the value of individual items of the balance sheet of selected companies on the movement of profitability, liquidity, and market value of companies, as measures of the companies’ financial health. Idea: The core idea of this paper was to empirically evaluate the financial health of domestic companies, where the financial policy that the selected companies implemented was taken as a factor of financial health. The financial policy was viewed through the structure of assets and financing of the chosen companies, while financial resilience observation was based on indicators of profitability, liquidity, and market value of the companies. Data: Secondary data from the reference database (Index of the Belgrade Stock Exchange) during the period 2016-2020, which includes 30 companies from the real sector, serve as the relevant basis for the realization of the research within the adequately set area of the research. Tools will be used to study the relationship, i.e., connectivity of selected research variables based on regression analysis in the frame of parametric quantitative procedures. The financial policy was viewed through the structure of assets and financing of the chosen companies, based on their balance sheets, while financial resilience observation was based on indicators of profitability, liquidity, and market value of the companies, which were used as dependent variables in the research. Findings: The point that changes in a relatively small number of the balance sheet items of selected companies influenced the movement of the mentioned financial health indicators during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contribution: Presented research results are significant and representative for future corporate practice. The key contribution of this research is the identification of assets’ elements with a critical impact on companies’ financial health.
Repair and Splicing of Centimeter‐Size Organic Crystalline Optical Waveguides
Authors: Lan Linfeng , Li Liang , Yang Xuesong , Naumov Panče , Zhang Hongyu
Published: December 2022

Organic single crystals that are capable of transmitting light and charge are quickly shaping into a new forefront of research in photoelectronic materials that is thought to hold a tremendous potential for the broader field of organic electronics. However, one of the main disadvantages that currently stands against the direct application of organic single crystals in that capacity is their pronounced proneness to mechanical damage due to brittleness, abrasion, and wear. To account for this drawback, here a simple and universal strategy is proposed for the recovery of macroscopic integrity of cracked or completely fractured crystals based on the layer‐by‐layer charged polymer assembly approach that can be used to effectively recover the damaged crystals. It is shown that in addition to being an effective means for reasonable restoration of their optical waveguiding ability, this approach can also be used to combine different crystals into hybrid organic photonic integrated circuits (OPICs) and even to construct dynamic hybrid OPICs as active and/or passive optical waveguides. The resulting integrated crystalline OPIC bundles act as optical waveguides for transmission of light with different colors and can also be used for light mixing to generate white light.
Recent Advances in “Functional Engineering of Articular Cartilage Zones by Polymeric Biomaterials Mediated with Physical, Mechanical, and Biological/Chemical Cues”
Authors: Dehghan‐Baniani Dorsa , Mehrjou Babak , Chu Paul K. , Lee Wayne Yuk Wai , Wu Hongkai
Published: December 2022

Articular cartilage (AC) plays an unquestionable role in joint movements but unfortunately the healing capacity is restricted due to its avascular and acellular nature. While cartilage tissue engineering has been lifesaving, it is very challenging to remodel the complex cartilage composition and architecture with gradient physio–mechanical properties vital to proper tissue functions. To address these issues, a better understanding of the intrinsic AC properties and how cells respond to stimuli from the external microenvironment must be better understood. This is essential in order to take one step closer to producing functional cartilaginous constructs for clinical use. Recently, biopolymers have aroused much attention due to their versatility, processability, and flexibility because the properties can be tailored to match the requirements of AC. This review highlights polymeric scaffolds developed in the past decade for reconstruction of zonal AC layers including the superficial zone, middle zone, and deep zone by means of exogenous stimuli such as physical, mechanical, and biological/chemical signals. The mimicked properties are reviewed in terms of the biochemical composition and organization, cell fate (morphology, orientation, and differentiation), as well as mechanical properties and finally, the challenges and potential ways to tackle them are discussed.
An Electrode with Two‐Level Porosity for Electro‐Fenton: Carbon Nanofiber‐Functionalized Macroporous Nickel Foam
Authors: Limper Alexander , Mohseni Mojtaba , Keller Robert , Linkhorst John , Klankermayer Jürgen , Wessling Matthias
Published: December 2022

Carbon is an established electrode material in electrochemical reactors, e.g., for the generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Common structures are graphite felts or carbon fibers. These materials usually lack adequate electrochemical activity, hence more selectively active moieties need to be introduced. Furthermore, the commonly porous materials require immobilization concepts which normally include polymeric binders that partly block the porous surface and may entail secondary pollution. This work introduces carbon nanofibers (CNFs), synthesized on nickel foams via catalytic carbon decomposition, as a novel, binder‐free electrode with two‐level porosity. The fibers are in the range of few nanometers and comprise embedded nickel nanoparticles (30–250 nm). The CNFs are deposited as a thin layer on a nickel foam, not affecting its intrinsically open‐porous nature. The as‐synthesized CNF/Ni foams show H2O2 production rates as high as 1.1 mg h−1 cm−2 at pH 3 and a cathodic potential of 0.11 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) through multiple reaction pathways catalyzed by CNF and embedded nickel nanoparticles. In an electro‐Fenton process, the removal of carbamazepine (CBZ), a frequently detected micropollutant in water bodies is assessed, demonstrating an almost complete depletion after 10 min (cCBZ,0 = 4 mg L−1). These results unveil the potential of the integrated production of CNF/Ni foam electrodes with scale‐up perspectives for oxygen reduction reactions.
Janus Self‐Propelled Chitosan‐Based Hydrogel Spheres for Rapid Bleeding Control
Authors: Yu Qiao , Su Baihai , Zhao Weifeng , Zhao Changsheng
Published: December 2022

Uncontrolled hemorrhage is a major cause of potentially preventable death in civilian trauma nowadays. Considerable concern has been given to the development of efficient hemostats with high blood absorption, self‐propelled property, and Ca2+ release ability, for irregularly shaped and noncompressible hemorrhage. Herein, Janus self‐propelled chitosan‐based hydrogel with CaCO3 (J‐CMH@CaCO3) is developed by partial ionic crosslinking of carboxylated chitosan (CCS) and Ca2+, gravity settlement, and photopolymerization, followed by removing the shell of CCS. The obtained J‐CMH@CaCO3 is further used as a hemostat powered by the internal CaCO3 and coordinated protonated tranexamic acid (J‐CMH@CaCO3/T). Bubbles are generated and detached to provide the driving force, accompanied by the release of Ca2+. The two aspects work in synergy to accelerate clot formation, endowing the J‐CMH@CaCO3/T with excellent hemostatic efficiency. The J‐CMH@CaCO3/T presents high blood absorption, favorable blood‐clotting ability, desired erythrocyte and platelet aggregation, and acceptable hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility. In rodent and rabbit bleeding models, the J‐CMH@CaCO3/T exhibits the most effective hemostasis to the best knowledge of the authors, wherein the hemorrhage is rapidly halted within 39 s. It is believed that the J‐CMH@CaCO3/T with self‐propelled property opens up a new avenue to design high‐performance hemostats for clinical application.
Health Conditions Associated with Alzheimer's Disease and Vascular Dementia
Authors: Beason‐Held Lori L. , Kerley Cailey I. , Chaganti Shikha , Moghekar Abhay , Thambisetty Madhav , Ferrucci Luigi , Resnick Susan M. , Landman Bennett A.
Published: December 2022

Objective

We examined medical records to determine health conditions associated with dementia at varied intervals prior to dementia diagnosis in participants from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA).

Methods

Data were available for 347 Alzheimer's disease (AD), 76 vascular dementia (VaD), and 811 control participants without dementia. Logistic regressions were performed associating International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision (ICD‐9) health codes with dementia status across all time points, at 5 and 1 year(s) prior to dementia diagnosis, and at the year of diagnosis, controlling for age, sex, and follow‐up length of the medical record.

Results

In AD, the earliest and most consistent associations across all time points included depression, erectile dysfunction, gait abnormalities, hearing loss, and nervous and musculoskeletal symptoms. Cardiomegaly, urinary incontinence, non‐epithelial skin cancer, and pneumonia were not significant until 1 year before dementia diagnosis. In VaD, the earliest and most consistent associations across all time points included abnormal electrocardiogram (EKG), cardiac dysrhythmias, cerebrovascular disease, non‐epithelial skin cancer, depression, and hearing loss. Atrial fibrillation, occlusion of cerebral arteries, essential tremor, and abnormal reflexes were not significant until 1 year before dementia diagnosis.

Interpretation

These findings suggest that some health conditions are associated with future dementia beginning at least 5 years before dementia diagnosis and are consistently seen over time, while others only reach significance closer to the date of diagnosis. These results also show that there are both shared and distinctive health conditions associated with AD and VaD. These results reinforce the need for medical intervention and treatment to lessen the impact of health comorbidities in the aging population. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:805–818
Genotype‐Guided Dual Antiplatelet Use for Transient Ischemic Attack and Minor Stroke by Imaging Status: Subgroup Analysis of the CHANCE‐2 Trial
Authors: Jing Jing , Xie Xuewei , Johnston S. Claiborne , Bath Philip M. , Li Zixiao , Zhao Xingquan , Liu Liping , Wang Yilong , Xu Qin , Wang Anxin , Jiang Yong , Li Hao , Meng Xia , Wang Yongjun ,   for the CHANCE‐2 Investigators
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study was performed to investigate whether ticagrelor/aspirin versus clopidogrel/aspirin can further reduce the residual risk of stroke recurrence in patients with positive diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) in the High‐Risk Patients with Acute Nondisabling Cerebrovascular Events II (CHANCE‐2) trial.

Methods

Patients with DWI data in the CHANCE‐2 trial were included and divided into those with and without acute infarction according to their DWI findings. The primary efficacy outcome and safety outcome were stroke recurrence and moderate to severe bleeding within 3 months of follow‐up, respectively.

Results

Of the 6,412 patients enrolled in the CHANCE‐2 trial, 5,796 (90.4%) patients with DWI data were included in the subgroup analysis. A total of 4,369 patients (75.4%) had an acute infarction on DWI. Patients with positive DWI had higher risk of recurrent stroke (8.1%) than those without infarction (2.2%) within 3‐month follow‐up. Compared with clopidogrel/aspirin, ticagrelor/aspirin was associated with lower risk of stroke in patients with positive DWI (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.52–0.80, p < 0.001) than in those negative DWI (HR = 1.22, 95% CI = 0.55–2.72, p = 0.63), with a significant interaction association (p for interaction = 0.049). The risk of moderate to severe bleeding was similar between ticagrelor/aspirin and clopidogrel/aspirin treatment in the different groups.

Interpretation

Our study demonstrates that imaging evaluation should be emphasized before targeting the best candidates for genotype‐guided dual antiplatelet therapy in future clinical research and practice. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:783–792
Recent Advances in Sequence‐Controlled Ring‐Opening Copolymerizations of Monomer Mixtures
Authors: Wang Xiaoqian , Huo Ziyu , Xie Xiaoyu , Shanaiah Narasimhamurthy , Tong Rong
Published: December 2022

Transforming renewable resources into functional and degradable polymers is driven by the ever‐increasing demand to replace unsustainable polyolefins. However, the utility of many degradable homopolymers remains limited due to their inferior properties compared to commodity polyolefins. Therefore, the synthesis of sequence‐defined copolymers from one‐pot monomer mixtures is not only conceptually appealing in chemistry, but also economically attractive by maximizing materials usage and improving polymers’ performances. Among many polymerization strategies, ring‐opening (co)polymerization of cyclic monomers enables efficient access to degradable polymers with high control on molecular weights and molecular weight distributions. Herein, we highlight recent advances in achieving one‐pot, sequence‐controlled polymerizations of cyclic monomer mixtures using a single catalytic system that combines multiple catalytic cycles. The scopes of cyclic monomers, catalysts, and polymerization mechanisms are presented for this type of sequence‐controlled ring‐opening copolymerization.
An online integrated programming platform to acquire students' behavior data for immediate feedback teaching
Authors: Yu Ju‐Hua , Chang Xing‐Zhi , Liu Wei , Huan Zhan
Published: December 2022

Programming‐related courses prefer to put importance on practice rather than theoretical knowledge. However, the students' programming behavior data is difficult to be recorded and fed back to teachers anytime, allowing teachers to adjust their teaching in real‐time. Aiming at this problem, this study develops an online integrated programming platform that provides a unified programming environment for teachers and students and logs students' procedural programming behavior data automatically to assist teachers in providing real‐time feedback teaching. To verify the effectiveness of the data‐driven immediate feedback teaching method, an exploratory case was conducted in the 2020/2021 academic year autumn semester. As the control group, cloud201 adopted the traditional hybrid online/offline mode, while cloud202, as the experimental group, adopted the hybrid online/offline mode and immediate feedback teaching mode. The effect is demonstrated through the questionnaire, the programming behavior data analysis, and the performance analysis. The results of the questionnaire show that there are significant differences in the students' satisfaction with interaction, supervision, feedback, and evaluation, of which feedback is the biggest part. In addition, the two analysis results indicate that students' individual learning development and the learning status of the class are objectively characterized, the overall grade distribution of cloud202 is more concentrated in medium grades and the difference on average scores between cloud201 and cloud202 is gradually increased. Since the students' immediate and comprehensive programming behavior data is perceived by teachers, the teaching adjustment is so flexible that the improvement of teaching efficiency and teaching effect is promoted accordingly.
Risk factors associated with cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity in Japanese patients with solid tumors
Authors: Okada Hideaki , Kitagawa Koichi
Published: December 2022

Background

Cisplatin, a first‐generation platinum agent, is used for managing various cancers and is associated with dose‐dependent side effects of hearing impairment and tinnitus. However, the safety of high‐dose cisplatin in hearing impairment, has not been fully investigated in Japan.

Methods

We performed pure‐tone threshold audiometry before and every 3–4 weeks after chemotherapy for patients receiving cisplatin‐containing chemotherapy between April 2015 and October 2017 at Kobe Minimally Invasive Cancer Center. Hearing impairment was evaluated prospectively using the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0.

Results

We enrolled 100 patients and analyzed 96 patients for whom post‐chemotherapy audiometry could be performed. The median patient age was 65 years, and most patients were male (75). The cancer types were as follows: esophageal, 36; head and neck, 35; lung, 23; and gastric, 2. Cisplatin monotherapy and combination therapy were administered to 33 and 63 patients, respectively. A single cisplatin dose was 60–100 mg/m2; the median number of doses and total dose were 3 and 240 mg/m2, respectively. Additionally, 78 and 18 patients were treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy and chemotherapy alone, respectively. Twenty‐seven patients had grade 2 or higher hearing impairment. Furthermore, the prevalence was significantly higher in patients receiving a total dose of ≥300 mg/m2. Twenty and 32 patients were aware of deafness and tinnitus, respectively.

Conclusion

No patient discontinued treatment owing to hearing impairment. The total cisplatin dose was considered related to post‐treatment hearing impairment frequency in Japanese patients. However, routine audiometric monitoring is recommended during high‐dose cisplatin‐based chemotherapy.
RNA interference: Promising approach for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Allahyari Elham , Velaei Kobra , Sanaat Zohreh , Jalilzadeh Nazila , Mehdizadeh Amir , Rahmati Mohammad
Published: December 2022

Today, cancer is one of the main health‐related challenges, and in the meantime, breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers among women, with an alarming number of incidences and deaths every year. For this reason, the discovery of novel and more effective approaches for the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of the disease are very important. In this regard, scientists are looking for diagnostic molecules to achieve the above‐mentioned goals with higher accuracy and specificity. RNA interference (RNAi) is a posttranslational regulatory process mediated by microRNA intervention and small interfering RNAs. After transcription and edition, these two noncoding RNAs are integrated and activated with the RNA‐induced silencing complex (RISC) and AGO2 to connect the target mRNA by their complementary sequence and suppress their translation, thus reducing the expression of their target genes. These two RNAi categories show different patterns in different BC types and stages compared to healthy cells, and hence, these molecules have high diagnostic, monitoring, and therapeutic potentials. This article aims to review the RNAi pathway and diagnostic and therapeutic potentials with a special focus on BC.
Multicenter study of pediatric Epstein‐Barr virus–negative monomorphic post solid organ transplant lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Afify Zeinab A. M. , Taj Mary M. , Orjuela‐Grimm Manuela , Srivatsa Kavitha , Miller Tamara P. , Edington Holly J. , Dalal Mansi , Robles Joanna , Ford James B. , Ehrhardt Matthew J. , Ureda Tonya J. , Rubinstein Jeremy D. , McCormack Sarah , Rivers Julie M. , Chisholm Karen M. , Kavanaugh Madison K. , Bukowinski Andrew J. , Friehling Erika D. , Ford Maegan C. , Reddy Sonika N. , Marks Lianna J. , Smith Christine Moore , Mason Clinton C.
Published: December 2022

Background

Pediatric Epstein‐Barr virus–negative monomorphic post solid organ transplant lymphoproliferative disorder [EBV(−)M‐PTLD] comprises approximately 10% of M‐PTLD. No large multi‐institutional pediatric‐specific reports on treatment and outcome are available.

Methods

A multi‐institutional retrospective review of solid organ recipients diagnosed with EBV(−)M‐PTLD aged ≤21 years between 2001 and 2020 in 12 centers in the United States and United Kingdom was performed, including demographics, staging, treatment, and outcomes data.

Results

Thirty‐six patients were identified with EBV(−)M‐PTLD. Twenty‐three (63.9%) were male. Median age (range) at transplantation, diagnosis of EBV(−)M‐PTLD, and interval from transplant to PTLD were 2.2 years (0.1–17), 14 years (3.0–20), and 8.5 years (0.6–18.3), respectively. Kidney (n = 17 [47.2%]) and heart (n = 13 [36.1%]) were the most commonly transplanted organs. Most were Murphy stage III (n = 25 [69.4%]). Lactate dehydrogenase was elevated in 22/34 (64.7%) and ≥2 times upper limit of normal in 11/34 (32.4%). Pathological diagnoses included diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (n = 31 [86.1%]) and B–non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (B‐NHL) not otherwise specified (NOS) (n = 5 [13.9%]). Of nine different regimens used, the most common were: pediatric mature B–NHL‐specific regimen (n = 13 [36.1%]) and low‐dose cyclophosphamide, prednisone, and rituximab (n = 9 [25%]). Median follow‐up from diagnosis was 3.0 years (0.3–11.0 years). Three‐year event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were 64.8% and 79.9%, respectively. Of the seven deaths, six were from progressive disease.

Conclusions

EFS and OS were comparable to pediatric EBV(+) PTLD, but inferior to mature B‐NHL in immunocompetent pediatric patients. The wide range of therapeutic regimens used directs our work toward developing an active multi‐institutional registry to design prospective studies.

Plain Language Summary

Pediatric Epstein‐Barr virus–negative monomorphic post solid organ transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (EBV(−)M‐PTLD) have comparable outcomes to EBV(+) PTLD, but are inferior to diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma in immunocompetent pediatric patients.

The variety of treatment regimens used highlights the need to develop a pediatric PTLD registry to prospectively evaluate outcomes.

The impact of treatment regimen on relapse risk could not be assessed because of small numbers.

In the intensive pediatric B–non‐Hodgkin lymphoma chemoimmunotherapy group, 11 of 13 patients remain alive in complete remission after 0.6 to 11 years.
In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Targeted Fluorescent Imaging Agents for Diagnosis and Resection of Cancer
Authors: Yadav Kratika , Krishnan Mena Asha , Chelvam Venkatesh
Published: December 2022

Local re‐occurrence of cancer in patients with solid tumors is currently the most common reason for failure of treatment strategies. This fact indicates that prevailing approaches for tumor resection can cure only 50% of patients. A major cause of failure in tumor resection is off‐target drug cytotoxicity and lack of sensitivity in tumor detection methods. These disadvantages are addressed with the development of targeted therapy and diagnostics, which significantly aid treatment strategies. Targeted diagnostics exploit properties of tumor cells that show significant up‐regulation of tumor biomarkers. These biomarkers are targeted by a homing ligand attached to a fluorophore for visual inspection during surgery. However, these approaches suffer from disadvantages like high autofluorescence from background tissues, tissue absorption, and scattering, resulting in decreased image sensitivity and resolution. The use of near‐infrared (NIR) fluorophores to overcome these drawbacks has generated unprecedented interest among researchers. The NIR window lies within the range of 650 to 1,700 nm, which results in reduced absorption and scattering by the tissues, thereby providing deeper tissue penetration and reduced autofluorescence. NIR fluorophores can be designed to target tumor biomarkers such as prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) or folate receptors found over‐expressed on cancer tissues. These targeted fluorophores consist of small‐molecule ligands conjugated with NIR dyes that bind with high specificity to PSMA and folic acid receptors. In this protocol, we have extensively described the methodology for the synthesis of targeted NIR agents for PSMA (DUPA‐NIR bioconjugate) and folic acid (folate‐NIR bioconjugate), along with detailed steps for preclinical evaluation. Procedures to calculate the binding affinity to cancer cells in vitro are described, along with uptake and biodistribution in different mice models in vivo. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis and purification of DUPA and folate‐peptide linkers via a SPPS strategy

Basic Protocol 2: Conjugation, purification, and characterization of targeted bioconjugates with NIR probe for deep‐tissue imaging applications

Basic Protocol 3: In vitro evaluation of binding affinity of targeted DUPA‐NIR and folate‐NIR bioconjugates using a spectrophotometer

Basic Protocol 4: Induction of tumor in mice to develop CDX or metastatic tumor models

Basic Protocol 5: Intravenous administration of targeted DUPA‐NIR and folate‐NIR bioconjugates in mouse CDX or metastatic tumor models for deep‐tissue NIR imaging and tumor resection
Reproductive Risk Estimation Calculator for Balanced Translocation Carriers
Authors: Trunca Carolyn , Mendell Nancy R. , Schilit Samantha L.P.
Published: December 2022

Balanced translocation carriers experience elevated reproductive risks, including pregnancy loss and children with anomalies due to generating chromosomally unbalanced gametes. While understanding the likelihood of producing unbalanced conceptuses is critical for individuals to make reproductive decisions, risk estimates are difficult to obtain as most balanced translocations are unique. To improve reproductive risk estimates, Drs. Trunca and Mendell created models based on a logistic regression analysis of a dataset of over 6000 individuals from over 1000 translocation families. While risk assessments using these models have been offered as a free service for years, this protocol aims to create a sustainable model for genetics professionals to obtain risk estimates for their patients directly. This protocol guides the user through collecting clinical information, using a risk‐generating Java program based on the models, and interpreting the program outputs. A practice tutorial is provided to ensure competency in interpretation prior to use. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Estimation of reproductive risks for balanced translocation carriers

Basic Protocol 2: Practical examples of typical patient encounters with instructive interpretations
Keeping an eye on circadian time in clinical research and medicine
Authors: Klerman Elizabeth B. , Brager Allison , Carskadon Mary A. , Depner Christopher M. , Foster Russell , Goel Namni , Harrington Mary , Holloway Paul M. , Knauert Melissa P. , LeBourgeois Monique K. , Lipton Jonathan , Merrow Martha , Montagnese Sara , Ning Mingming , Ray David , Scheer Frank A. J. L. , Shea Steven A. , Skene Debra J. , Spies Claudia , Staels Bart , St‐Onge Marie‐Pierre , Tiedt Steffen , Zee Phyllis C. , Burgess Helen J.
Published: December 2022

Background

Daily rhythms are observed in humans and almost all other organisms. Most of these observed rhythms reflect both underlying endogenous circadian rhythms and evoked responses from behaviours such as sleep/wake, eating/fasting, rest/activity, posture changes and exercise. For many research and clinical purposes, it is important to understand the contribution of the endogenous circadian component to these observed rhythms.

Content

The goal of this manuscript is to provide guidance on best practices in measuring metrics of endogenous circadian rhythms in humans and promote the inclusion of circadian rhythms assessments in studies of health and disease. Circadian rhythms affect all aspects of physiology. By specifying minimal experimental conditions for studies, we aim to improve the quality, reliability and interpretability of research into circadian and daily (i.e., time‐of‐day) rhythms and facilitate the interpretation of clinical and translational findings within the context of human circadian rhythms.

We describe protocols, variables and analyses commonly used for studying human daily rhythms, including how to assess the relative contributions of the endogenous circadian system and other daily patterns in behaviours or the environment. We conclude with recommendations for protocols, variables, analyses, definitions and examples of circadian terminology.

Conclusion

Although circadian rhythms and daily effects on health outcomes can be challenging to distinguish in practice, this distinction may be important in many clinical settings. Identifying and targeting the appropriate underlying (patho)physiology is a medical goal. This review provides methods for identifying circadian effects to aid in the interpretation of published work and the inclusion of circadian factors in clinical research and practice.
Precision of mangrove sediment blue carbon estimates and the role of coring and data analysis methods
Authors: Sternberg‐Rodríguez Paula , Ezcurra Paula , Costa Matthew T. , Aburto‐Oropeza Octavio , Ezcurra Exequiel
Published: December 2022

Carbon accumulation in coastal wetlands is normally assessed by extracting a sediment core and estimating its carbon content and bulk density. Because carbon content and bulk density are functionally related, the latter can be estimated gravimetrically from a section of the core or, alternatively, from the carbon content in the sample using the mixing model equation from soil science. Using sediment samples from La Paz Bay, Mexico, we analyzed the effect that the choice of corer and the method used to estimate bulk density could have on the final estimates of carbon storage in the sediments. We validated the results using a larger dataset of tropical mangroves, and then by Monte Carlo simulation. The choice of corer did not have sizable influence on the final estimates of carbon density. The main factor in selecting a corer is the operational difficulties that each corer may have in different types of sediments. Because of the multiplication of errors in a product of two variables subject to random sampling error, when using gravimetric estimates of bulk density, the dispersion of the data points in the estimation of total carbon density rises rapidly as the amount of carbon in the sediment increases. In contrast, the estimation of total carbon density using only the carbon fraction as a predictor is very precise, especially in sediments rich in organic matter. This method, however, depends critically on the accurate estimation of the two parameters of the mixing model: the bulk density of pure peat and the bulk density of pure mineral sediment. The estimation of carbon densities in peaty sediments can be very imprecise when using gravimetric bulk densities. Estimating carbon density in peaty sediments using only the estimate of organic fraction can be much more precise, provided the model parameters are estimated with accuracy. These results open the door for simplified and precise estimates of carbon dynamics in mangroves and coastal wetlands.
Spatial patterns of transport‐effective flow at three small confluences: Relation to channel morphology
Authors: Shukla Tanya , Lewis Quinn W. , Rhoads Bruce L.
Published: December 2022

The spatial patterns of transport‐effective flows at confluences and the relation of these patterns to channel morphology remain poorly understood. This field study uses acoustic Doppler current profiler measurements to explore the spatial structure of different transport‐effective flows at three small stream confluences where measurements of flow structure have been obtained previously using electromagnetic current meters or acoustic Doppler velocimeters for events incapable of mobilizing bed material or for transport‐effective events with much smaller discharges. Results show that flow accelerates from upstream to downstream for all six measured flows and that in each case a distinct region of velocity deficit exists within the confluence. Accelerating flow within this velocity‐deficit region eventually transforms into the high‐velocity core of flow downstream of the confluence. Patterns of secondary flow are indicative of helical motion, with some helical cells exhibiting senses of rotation inconsistent with patterns of streamline curvature defined by patterns of depth‐averaged velocity vectors—a type of fluid motion that contrasts with flow structure documented at lower stages. Channel form, especially bed morphology, generally reflects acceleration of flow at the confluences; all three sites exhibit zones of scour. Despite mobility of bed material during measured flows, channel morphology does not change substantially at any of the sites, but systematic change in channel form for two different transport‐effective events with different momentum flux ratios is observed at one of the three confluences. At this confluence, the type of change documented during the two events is consistent with previous work on changes in morphology before and after events with different momentum flux ratios. The results of this study improve understanding of the connections between flow structure and channel form at small lowland stream confluences.
Repose time patterns of debris‐flow events in alpine catchments
Authors: Heiser Micha , Schlögl Matthias , Spangl Bernhard , Fuchs Sven , Rickenmann Dieter , Zimmermann Markus , Scheidl Christian
Published: December 2022

The omnipresent threat of natural hazards in mountainous regions has led to a risk culture which requires knowledge about the frequency of the considered hazardous process. Observations suggest that the frequency of debris‐flow events in a single catchment is, besides climatic thresholds, also controlled by its geological, lithological and geomorphological characteristics. Based on investigations of debris‐flow event frequencies from 47 headwater catchments, our results support the classification of recurrence intervals as irregular, clustered or regular, originally proposed by Zimmermann et al. in 1997 (Eclogae Geologicae Helvetiae, 90(3), 415–420). However, instead of using geomorphological characteristics, our classification relies on quantitative analyses considering potential dependencies between events based on their inter‐event (repose) times. By employing a modified dynamic threshold concept with respect to debris‐flow initiation, we show that for irregular frequencies neither climatic nor geomorphological thresholds are altered by the last debris‐flow event. For regular and clustered time series, however, mutual dependency between events is reasonable and therefore prompts dynamic changes of climatic as well as geomorphological thresholds.
Delayed neck cutoff in the meandering Black River of the Qinghai–Tibet plateau
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Gao Peng , You Yuchi , Finotello Alvise , Ielpi Alessandro
Published: December 2022

Neck cutoffs in meandering rivers have long been thought to occur when the neck width (b) approximates the mean width of the parent channel (W). Empirical evidence for this paradigm is scarce, however, because tracking late‐stage evolution of meander bends prior to cutoff at sufficient temporal resolutions is difficult in natural rivers. In this study, we captured field and photogrammetric data depicting temporal changes of the banklines forming the neck of one meander bend, and values of the narrowest neck width for 14 highly sinuous bends, in the Black River of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (China) over nearly four decades. Results show that the duration of bend evolution from the classic morphological threshold (b ≈ W) to the occurrence of neck cutoff could range from 52 to 161 years. This long period has hitherto been ignored by fluvial geomorphologists, and needs to be included in forthcoming kinematic and hydrodynamic models of meander evolution. Further analyses indicate that the neck narrowing process is autogenous at the local bend scale, neither controlled by the maximum bend sinuosity nor by the annual peak discharge.
Seventy years of watershed response to floods and changing forestry practices in western Oregon, USA
Authors: Goodman Arianna C. , Segura Catalina , Jones Julia A. , Swanson Frederick J.
Published: December 2022

This study examined the 70‐year history of clearcutting of old‐growth forest and associated road construction, floods, landslides, large wood in rivers, and channel change in the 64 km2 Lookout Creek watershed in western Oregon, where forestry practices began in 1950 and largely ceased by the 1980s. Responses differed among three zones with distinctive geomorphic processes within the watershed: a glacially sculpted zone, an earthflow‐dominated zone, and a debris slide and debris flow‐dominated zone. Watershed response to floods was more related to the timing of road construction and clearcuts, past geomorphic events, and forest dynamics than to flood magnitude. Even small (1–3 year) floods generated geomorphic responses in the period of initial road construction and logging (1950–1964) and during ongoing logging in the early part of a 30‐year period between large flood events (1966–1995). The floods of 1964/65, 15 years after the onset of logging, produced much larger geomorphic responses than the flood of record (1996), more than a decade after logging ceased. Geomorphic response was negligible for the third largest event on record (2011) during the last period (1997–2020), when former clearcuts were 20 to 70‐year‐old forest plantations. Watershed response in each of five distinct time periods depended on conditions created during prior periods in the three zones. Understanding of watershed response to forestry requires integrated observation of forestry practices, floods, landslide susceptibility, wood delivery and movement, and channel change on time scales that capture responses to past and ongoing management practices and geophysical and biological factors and events.
Study of the method of spinal cord neuron culture in Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Sun Yi‐Fei , Chang Quan‐Yuan , Eerqing Narima , Hu Chang‐Yan
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to explore the method of culture of spinal cord neurons (SPNs) in vitro and to provide prerequisites for studying the molecular mechanism and pharmacological mechanism of spinal cord injury and repair. The spinal cord tissues of neonatal Sprague–Dawley rats were taken and digested by trypsin, followed by cytarabine (Ara‐C) to inhibit the proliferation of heterogeneous cells, differential velocity adhesion, and natural growth in neuron‐specific medium. Then, the morphology of SPNs was observed. Ara‐C treatment inhibited the growth of heterogeneous cells and the growth of spinal neurons. Using the differential velocity adhesion method, it was found that the adhesion time of heterogeneous cells and SPNs was not significantly different, and it could not separate neurons and heterogeneous cells well. A large number of mixed cells gathered and floated, and died on the 18th day. Compared with the 20th day, the cell viability of the 18th day was better (p < 0.001). The natural growth and culture of SPNs in Neurobasal‐A medium can yield neurons of higher purity and SPNs from the 12th day to the 18th day can be selected for related in vitro cell experiments.
Discovering childhood in contemporary China: Toward a multisystems perspective
Authors: Ge Ting , He Guangye
Published: December 2022

Despite the remarkable improvements that have been achieved in the field of child development in contemporary China, there remain daunting challenges. To explore and address these issues, we organize this special issue “Child development in contemporary China: Toward a multisystems perspective.” In this collection, we introduce theoretically‐informed empirical research conducted by scholars worldwide and organize these research articles into four general themes: policy/program intervention regarding child development, migration status and child development, parenting/grandparenting and child development, and school/after‐school engagement and child development. These articles keep abreast of theoretical, methodological, and practical innovations in the field, aiming to provide new evidence to enrich the understanding of the patterns and potential mechanisms that would lead to a (dis)advantaged childhood in China.
Mpox diagnostics: Review of current and emerging technologies
Authors: Lim Chuan Kok , Roberts Jason , Moso Michael , Liew Kwee Chin , Taouk Mona L. , Williams Eloise , Tran Thomas , Steinig Eike , Caly Leon , Williamson Deborah Ann
Published: December 2022

Mpox is a zoonotic disease caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV) from the Orthopoxvirus genus. Unprecedented transmission events have led to more than 70 000 cases reported worldwide by October 2022. The change in mpox epidemiology has raised concerns of its ability to establish endemicity beyond its traditional geographical locations. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of mpox virology and viral dynamics that are relevant to mpox diagnostics. A synopsis of the traditional and emerging laboratory technologies useful for MPXV detection and in guiding “elimination” strategies is outlined in this review. Importantly, development in MPXV genomics has rapidly advanced our understanding of the role of viral evolution and adaptation in the current outbreak.
Head‐to‐head comparison of genotyping of human papillomavirus by GP5+/6+‐PCR‐based reverse dot blot hybridization assay and SPF10‐PCR‐based line probe assay
Authors: Yin Jian , Peng Siying , Li Xinyue , Zhang Changning , Hu Fangfang , Chen Wen , Qiao Youlin
Published: December 2022

The SPF10‐PCR‐based line probe assay (LiPA‐25) for human papillomavirus (HPV) genotyping with high analytical sensitivity and specificity was widely used in HPV vaccine clinical trials and epidemiologic studies. In the study, we aimed to compare a novel GP5+/6+‐PCR‐based reverse dot blot hybridization assay (Yaneng‐23) with LiPA‐25. The performance of two assays was evaluated in 1735 cervical swab and 117 tissue samples, with a focus on 19 common HPV types (14 high‐risk: 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68/73; 5 low‐risk: 6, 11, 42, 43, and 53). A total of 1197 (69.0%) swab samples were identified as HPV‐positive by two assays. Of these, 878 (73.4%) samples displayed absolute agreement (concordant), 255 (21.3%) showed additional or fewer types (compatible), and the remaining 64 (5.3%) samples were discordant. Additionally, the two assays showed an excellent strength of agreement for 19 HPV‐combined detection (κ = 0.886) and 17 individual HPV types (all κ > 0.800), and displayed a good agreement for HPV39 (κ = 0.780) and 42 (κ = 0.699). Yaneng‐23 was more sensitive than LiPA‐25 for HPV58, 59, 68/73, 42, 43 and 53 (McNemar's test: all p < 0.05), while LiPA‐25 was more sensitive for HPV31, 39, 52, and 66 than Yaneng‐23 (all p < 0.05). In 113 HPV‐positive tissue specimens, the identification of genotypes was 82.3% identical and 17.7% compatible. The agreement between the tests for HPV45 (κ = 0.796) and 51 (κ = 0.742) was good, and for other types (all κ > 0.843) and 19 HPV‐combined detection (κ = 0.929) was perfect (all p > 0.05). In conclusion, Yaneng‐23 and LiPA‐25 are comparable. Yaneng‐23 could be used for the detection and genotyping of HPV in cervical samples for epidemiological and vaccine studies worldwide.
Fabrication of glycated yeast cell protein via Maillard reaction for delivery of curcumin: improved environmental stability, antioxidant activity, and bioaccessibility
Authors: Fu Jing‐jing , Fu Dong‐wen , Zhang Guang‐yao , Zhang Zhi‐hui , Xu Xian‐bing , Song Liang
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

The application of curcumin (CUR) in the food industry is limited by its instability, hydrophobicity and low bioavailability. Yeast cell protein (YCP) is a by‐product of spent brewer's yeast, which has the potential to deliver bioactive substances. However, the environmental stresses such as pH, salt and heat treatment has restricted its application in the food industry. Maillard reaction as a non‐enzymatic browning reaction can improve protein stability under environmental stress.

RESULTS

The CUR was successfully encapsulated into the hydrophobic core of YCP/glycated YCP (GYCP) and enhanced by hydrogen bonding, resulting in static fluorescence quenching of YCP/GYCP. The average diameter and dispersibility of GYPC−CUR nanocomplex were significantly improved after glucose glycation (121.40 nm versus 139.70 nm). Moreover, the encapsulation capacity of CUR was not influenced by glucose glycation. The oxidative stability and bioaccessibility of CUR in nanocomplexes were increased compared with free CUR, especially complexed with GYCP conjugates.

CONCLUSION

Steric hindrance provided by glucose conjugation improved the enviriomental stability, oxidative activity and bioaccessibility of CUR in nanocomplexes. Thus, glucose‐glycated YCP has potential application as a delivery carrier for hydrophobic compounds in functional foods. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Vocal Fold Pathologies Among Undergraduate Singing Students In Three Different Genres
Authors: Bretl Michelle M. , Gerhard Julia , Rosow David E. , Anis Mursalin , Landera Mario A. , Libman Dana , Marchman Judy , Ragsdale Frank , Moore Stephannie , Ma Ruixuan , Hoffman Bari , Ivey Chandra , Johns Michael M. , Menton Stacey M. , Lloyd Adam T.
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study aimed to compare the prevalence and incidence of vocal fold pathologies among undergraduate classical, musical theatre, and contemporary commercial music (CCM) students over two‐time points.

Methods

This study is part of a longitudinal investigation. Videostroboscopic examinations were rated, with consensus among three of four expert blinded raters confirming the presence of pathology. Association between genre of singer and the presence of pathology, interrater reliability, and intra‐rater reliability were calculated. Prevalence and incidence of pathologies were compared across genres.

Results

During first‐year evaluations, 32% of musical theatre, 18% of CCM, and 0% of classical students had vocal pathologies. The prevalence at third‐year evaluations showed 22% of classical, 39% of musical theatre, and 27% of CCM participants having vocal fold pathologies. The incidence of pathologies was 67% of musical theatre students compared to 22% of classical students and 27% of CCM students. The four raters demonstrated fair to moderate interrater agreement. Singing Voice Handicap Index‐10 scores were normal for CCM singers at both time points but elevated for musical theatre and classical singers.

Conclusion

No classical singers were found to have pathology during first‐year evaluations, although CCM and musical theatre singers showed evidence of vocal fold pathologies. At third‐year evaluations, all three genres had an apparent increase in prevalence of pathologies. Implications of this study suggest that more time in the field and intense voice usage may lead to a greater risk of pathology for all singers, regardless of genre.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 133:2317–2324, 2023