bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversion of Isoxazoles to Functionalized Pyrrole and Isoquinoline Derivatives via ROCC Mechanism
Authors: Raghavulu Karri , Shanker Varukolu , Gudipati Ramakrishna , Basavaiah Keloth , Doddipalla Raju , Yadav Mahipal , Yennam Satyanarayana , Behera Manoranjan
Published: July 2024

Herein, we report a new method for the synthesis of functionalized pyrrole and isoquinoline derivatives using isoxazole based precursors. The reaction proceeds through the ring opening and ring closing cascade mechanism (ROCC) to afford pyrrole or isoquinoline derivatives in good to excellent yields under very mild experimental conditions. Product outcome relies on the strategic placement of different substituents on the isoxazole moiety. The present method is also applicable to synthesize functionalized isoquinolone derivatives.
Adult symptoms of ASD in relation to excessive internet use: The roles of ADHD symptoms and negative mood
Authors: Lyvers Michael , Luarca Aliah , Priestly Grace , Thorberg Fred Arne
Published: July 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been reportedly associated with excessive internet use, also known as internet addiction. As ADHD is the most common comorbidity in ASD, the present study examined the possibility that ADHD symptoms, and/or trait and mood factors linked to ASD, ADHD and internet addiction, could account for the association of ASD with internet addiction symptoms. A nonclinical young adult sample of 248 internet using men and women completed self‐report measures of ASD and ADHD symptoms, alexithymia, impulsivity, negative moods and internet addiction symptoms. Scores on the ASD and ADHD symptom measures were normally distributed, consistent with the notion that the corresponding disorders represent extreme, impairing ends of population distributions of their symptoms. Hierarchical regression followed by path analysis indicated that the relationship between ASD and internet addiction symptoms was fully mediated by ADHD symptoms and negative moods. Further, the relationship between ADHD and internet addiction symptoms was partially mediated by impulsivity and negative moods. Present findings point to the mediating roles of ADHD symptoms and negative moods in the association of ASD with internet addiction symptoms.
Electronic structure of the strongly correlated electron system plutonium hexaboride: A study from single‐particle approximations and many‐body calculations
Authors: Li Ru‐song , Qu Xin , Wang Jin‐tao , Wang Fei , Xie Zheng
Published: July 2024

The electronic structure of the strongly correlated electron system plutonium hexaboride is studied by using single‐particle approximations and a many‐body approach. Imaginary components of impurity Green's functions show that 5fj=5/2 and 5fj=7/2 manifolds are in conducting and insulating regimes, respectively. Quasi‐particle weights and their ratio suggest that the intermediate coupling mechanism is applicable for Pu 5f electrons, and PuB6 might be in the orbital‐selective localized state. The weighted summation of occupation probabilities yields the interconfiguration fluctuation and average occupation number of 5f electrons n5f ~ 5.101. The interplay of 5f–5f correlation, spin‐orbit coupling, Hund's exchange interaction, many‐body transition of 5f configurations, and final state effects might be responsible for the quasiparticle multiplets in electronic spectrum functions. Prominent characters in the density of state, such as the coexistence of atomic multiplet peaks in the vicinity of the Fermi level and broad Hubbard bands in the high‐lying regime, suggest that PuB6 could be identified as a Racah material. Finally, the quasiparticle band structure is also presented.
Theoretical study on the carbon nanomaterial‐supported Pt complex electrocatalysts for efficient and selective chlorine evolution reaction
Authors: Hossen Jewel , Nakatani Naoki
Published: July 2024

Chlorine is an important chemical which has long been produced in chlor‐alkali process using dimensionally stable anodes (DSA). However, some serious drawbacks of DSA inspire the development of alternative anodes for chlorine evolution reaction (CER). In this study, we focused on the graphene‐ and carbon nanotube‐supported platinum tetra‐phenyl porphyrins as electrocatalysts for CER, which have been theoretically investigated based on density functional theory. Our results reveal that the supported substrates possess potential CER electrocatalytic activity with very low thermodynamic overpotentials (0.012–0.028 V) via Cl* pathway instead of ClO*. The electronic structures analyses showed that electron transfer from the support to the adsorbed chlorine via the Pt center leads to strong Pt–Cl interactions. Furthermore, the supported electrocatalysts exhibited excellent selectivity toward CER because of high overpotentials and reaction barriers of oxygen evolution process. Therefore, our results may pave the way for designing CER electrocatalyst utilizing emerging carbon nanomaterials.
Association between metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease and myosteatosis measured by computed tomography
Authors: Kim Myung Jin , Cho Yun Kyung , Kim Eun Hee , Lee Min Jung , Lee Woo Je , Kim Hong‐Kyu , Jung Chang Hee
Published: July 2024

Background

In 2023, the concept of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) was introduced as an alternative to non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to assess the quantity and quality of skeletal muscle using each of these diagnostic classifications.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 18 154 participants (11 551 [63.6%] men and 6603 [36.4%] women, mean age 53.0 ± 8.8). The participants were classified into four categories: neither steatotic liver disease (SLD), NAFLD only, MASLD only or both SLDs. An appendicular skeletal muscle mass adjusted for body mass index of <0.789 for men and <0.512 for women was defined as sarcopenia. The total abdominal muscle area (TAMA) at the L3 vertebral level was segmented into normal‐attenuation muscle area (NAMA), low‐attenuation muscle area and intermuscular/intramuscular adipose tissue. Myosteatosis was defined by a T‐score < −1.0 of the NAMA/TAMA index, which was calculated by dividing the NAMA by the TAMA and multiplying by 100.

Results

Using subjects with neither SLD as a reference, the multivariable‐adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for sarcopenia were significantly increased in those with MASLD, with adjusted ORs (95% confidence interval [CI]) of 2.62 (1.94–3.54) in the MASLD‐only group and 2.33 (1.92–2.82) in the both SLDs group, while the association was insignificant in those with NAFLD only (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 2.16 [0.67–6.94]). The OR for myosteatosis was also elevated in the MASLD groups, with an OR (95% CI) of 1.75 (1.52–2.02) in subjects with MASLD only and 1.70 (1.57–1.84) in those with both SLDs, while it was slightly decreased in subjects with NAFLD only (0.52 [0.29–0.95]).

Conclusions

Employing the MASLD concept rather than that of the NAFLD proved to be more effective in distinguishing individuals with reduced muscle mass and compromised muscle quality.
(Mis)alignments between postdoctoral and supervisors' perceptions of mentorship competencies in engineering and computer science
Authors: Bahnson Matthew , Ross Monique , Berdanier Catherine G. P.
Published: July 2024

Background

Postdoctoral training holds an increasingly important place in preparation for leading academic and research positions. While little empirical research has described postdoctoral training beyond the sciences, across all fields, “misaligned expectations” are often touted as a key source of postdoctoral strife.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This article describes mentorship competency beliefs within engineering and computer science fields, which increasingly engage in postdoctoral training.

Design/Method

An embedded mixed‐methods design was used to quantitatively identify mentorship profiles from survey data using latent profile analysis (LPA) from a sample of n = 118 postdoctoral scholars and n = 165 postdoctoral supervisors. Qualitative thematic analysis of interviews with n = 29 postdoctoral scholars and n = 20 postdoctoral supervisors was used to identify meaning in the differences between quantitative profiles. The combination of LPA with thematic analysis enabled the triangulation of distinct postdoctoral mentorship profile definitions.

Results

LPA identified six postdoctoral fellow profiles and four supervisor profiles, which became clearly definable through thematic analysis. Postdoc profiles included Technical Manager, Autonomy Focused Advisor, Stretched Mentor, Well‐Rounded Mentor, Exemplar Mentor, and Leader‐Mentor, while supervisor profiles included Autonomous Mentor, Reflective Mentor, Research Lab Mentor, and Confident Leader‐Mentor. Some of these are aligned, but several are not, giving insight into the phenomenon of “misaligned expectations” in postdoctoral literature.

Conclusions

The mentorship profiles illustrate the misalignment in expectations, which leads to negative mentorship experiences for many postdoctoral scholars.
No difference in stability among various knee flexion angles during fixation of anterolateral ligament reconstruction or lateral extra‐articular tenodesis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of biomechanical studies
Authors: Kolin David A. , Jones Ruth H. , Heyworth Benton E. , Jivanelli Bridget ,   SATURN Study Group, Fabricant Peter D.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) or lateral extra‐articular tenodesis (LET) fixation at low versus high flexion angles during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) on rotation or translational knee stability.

Methods

The inclusion criteria for this study were (1) cadaveric study, (2) cadaveric specimens underwent ACLR, (3) cadaveric specimen underwent ALLR or LET and (4) specimen preparation technique described the knee flexion angle at the time of ALLR or LET tensioning and fixation. A priori, ‘low flexion’ was defined as 0–30° and ‘high flexion’ was defined as 60–90° at graft fixation. Main outcomes of interest included internal rotation and anterior translation.

Results

Data from 92 cadaveric knees (from 9 studies) were extracted and included in the meta‐analysis. The mean pooled value for internal rotation was 10.1° (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.7–14.5°) for the low flexion group and 11.5° (95% CI, 7.4–15.7°) for the high flexion group (n.s.). The mean pooled value for anterior translation was 4.3 mm (95% CI, 0.5–8.1 mm) for the low flexion group and 3.0 mm (95% CI, 1.1–5.0 mm) for the high flexion group (n.s.).

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis of existing biomechanical research found that the rotational and translational stability of the knee were not significantly different between scenarios in which ALLR or LET fixation was performed at low knee flexion angles (0–30°) versus high knee flexion angles (60–90°).

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Good mid‐ to long‐term outcomes after meniscus bucket‐handle tear repair: A comparative analysis with and without anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Pawelczyk Johannes , Fanourgiakis Ilias , Feil Sven , Siebold Maja , Kougioumtzis Ioannis , Siebold Rainer
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To evaluate mid‐ to long‐term clinical outcomes after arthroscopic bucket‐handle meniscal tear (BHMT) repair and to assess the impact of concurrent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Methods

A comparative retrospective case series with blinded outcome assessment was conducted. All consecutive patients treated with arthroscopic BHMT repair with or without concurrent ACLR between 2001 and 2021 were eligible for inclusion. Fifty‐five patients with an average follow‐up of 7.3 ± 3.4 years were included in the analysis. Outcome measures comprised post‐operative IKDC Subjective Knee Form, Lysholm Score, Tegner Activity Scale, KOOS, and visual analogue scale (VAS) for satisfaction. Additionally, failure and reoperation rates were assessed.

Results

The failure rate was 9%. Medial BHMT repair showed superior post‐operative IKDC scores compared to lateral meniscus repair (p = 0.038). Concurrent ACLR did not demonstrate any impact on post‐operative KOOS, IKDC, Tegner or patient satisfaction. The mean IKDC score at final follow‐up across both groups was 80.4 ± 17.8. The mean Lysholm score was 86.9 ± 16.7. Mean KOOS scores were (i) symptoms: 83.6 ± 18.3, (ii) pain: 90.2 ± 14.4, (iii) activities of daily living: 93.6 ± 15.1, (iv) sports: 78.3 ± 26.0 and (v) quality of life: 70.5 ± 24.5. Mean patient satisfaction (VAS) was 7.9 ± 2.5. The mean Tegner score was 4.9 ± 1.9. A consistent positive correlation between the number of sutures used and post‐operative outcome measures was observed but did not reach statistical significance for most items.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic BHMT repair achieved good clinical outcomes and an acceptable failure rate of 9% at a mean follow‐up of 7 years, supporting the clinical value of meniscal repair, including large BHMTs. Concurrent ACLR showed no impact on clinical outcomes.

Level of Evidence

Level IV (retrospective case series).
Evaluation of resazurin phenoxazine dye as a highly sensitive cell viability potency assay for natural killer cell‐derived extracellular vesicle‐based cancer biotherapeutics
Authors: St‐Denis‐Bissonnette Frederic , Qiu Shirley , Cummings Sarah E. , Kirkby Melanie , Haile Yohannes , Wassmer Sarah , Muradia Gauri , Mehic Jelica , Stalker Andrew , Shrestha Amit , Ardolino Michele , Lee Seung‐Hwan , Burger Dylan , Wang Lisheng , Lavoie Jessie R.
Published: July 2024

Natural killer cell‐derived extracellular vesicles (NK‐EVs) are candidate biotherapeutics against various cancers. However, standardised potency assays are necessary for a reliable assessment of NK‐EVs' cytotoxicity. This study aims to thoroughly evaluate a highly sensitive resazurin phenoxazine‐based cell viability potency assay (measurement of the cellular redox metabolism) for quantifying the cytotoxicity of NK‐EVs against leukaemia K562 cells (suspension model) and breast cancer MDA‐MB‐231 cells (adherent model) in vitro. The assay was evaluated based on common analytical parameters setforth by regulatory guidelines, including specificity, selectivity,accuracy, precision, linearity, range and stability. Our results revealed that this resazurin‐based cell viability potency assay reliably and reproducibly measured a dose‐response of NK‐EVs’ cytotoxic activity against both cancer models. The assay showed precision with 5% and 20% variation for intra‐run and inter‐run variability. The assay signal showed specificity and selectivity of NK‐EVs against cancer target cells, as evidenced by the diminished viability of cancer cells following a 5‐hour treatment with NK‐EVs, without any detectable interference or background. The linearity analysis of target cancer cells revealed strong linearity for densities of 5000 K562 and 1000 MDA‐MB‐231 cells per test with a consistent range. Importantly, NK‐EVs’ dose‐response for cytotoxicity showed a strong correlation (|ρ| ∼ 0.8) with the levels of known cytotoxic factors associated with the NK‐EVs’ corona (FasL, GNLY, GzmB, PFN and IFN‐γ), thereby validating the accuracy of the assay. The assay also distinguished cytotoxicity changes in degraded NK‐EVs, indicating the ability of the assay to detect the potential loss of sample integrity. Compared to other commonly reported bioassays (i.e., flow cytometry, cell counting, lactate dehydrogenase release assay, DNA‐binding reporter assay and confluence assay), our results support this highly sensitive resazurin‐based viability potency assay as a high‐throughput and quantitative method for assessing NK‐EVs’ cytotoxicity against both suspension and adherent cancer models for evaluating NK‐EVs’ biotherapeutics.
Vitamin D as a predictor of clinical response among patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT)
Authors: Wattanachayakul Phuuwadith , Srikulmontri Thitiphan , Prasitsumrit Vitchapong , Suenghataiphorn Thanathip , Danpanichkul Pojsakorn , Polpichai Natchaya , Saowapa Sakditad , Idowu Abiodun , Amanullah Aman
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cardiovascular and noncardiovascular comorbidities have been recognized as predictors of clinical response in patients receiving cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). However, data on vitamin D as a predictor of CRT response are conflicting.

Method

We identified studies from MEDLINE and Embase databases, searching from inception to May 2024, to investigate the association between 25‐OH vitamin D levels before CRT implantation and outcomes. Studies had to report 25‐OH vitamin D levels or the proportion of patients with vitamin D insufficiency and categorize outcomes as CRT responders or nonresponders. We extracted mean 25‐OH vitamin D and standard deviations for both groups from each study and calculated the pooled mean difference (MD). We also retrieved risk ratios, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between vitamin D insufficiency and lack of CRT response, combining them using the generic inverse variance method.

Results

Our meta‐analysis included four studies. CRT responders had higher levels of 25‐OH vitamin D than nonresponders, with a pooled MD of 8.04 ng/mL (95% CI: 3.16–12.93; I2 = 48%, p < .001). Patients with vitamin D insufficiency before implantation had higher odds of lacking response to CRT, with a pooled RR of 3.28 (95% CI: 1.43–7.50; I2 = 0%, p = .005) compared to those with normal vitamin D.

Conclusions

CRT responders had higher 25‐OH vitamin D levels compared to nonresponders. Vitamin D insufficiency was associated with a higher risk of nonresponse to CRT. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring and managing vitamin D levels in these patients.
Biofortification, metabolomic profiling and quantitative analysis of vitamin B12 enrichment in guava juice via lactic acid fermentation using Levilactobacillus brevis strain KU15152
Authors: Rastogi Mayuri , Singh Vandana , Shaida Bushra , Siddiqui Saleem , Bangar Sneh Punia , Phimolsiripol Yuthana
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Chemical fortification and dose supplementation of vitamin B12 are widely implemented to combat deficiency symptoms. However, in situ, fortification of vitamin B12 in food matrixes can be a promising alternative to chemical fortification. The present study aimed to produce vitamin B12‐rich, probiotic guava juice fermented with Levilactobacillus brevis strain KU15152. Pasteurized fresh guava juice was inoculated with 7.2 log CFU mL−1 L. brevis strain KU15152 and incubated for 72 h at 37 °C anaerobically. The antioxidants, total phenolic compounds, vitamin B12 production, sugars, organic acids, pH and viable count were analyzed at 24, 48 and 72 h of incubation. The fermented juice was stored at 4 °C, and the changes in its functional properties were analyzed at 7‐day intervals up to 28 days of storage.

RESULTS

During fermentation, the bacteria cell count was increased from 7.01 ± 0.06 to 9.76 ± 0.42 log CFU mL−1 after 72 h of fermentation and was decreased to 6.94 ± 0.34 CFU mL−1 during storage at 4 °C after 28 days. The pH, total soluble solids, crude fiber, citric acid and total sugars decreased, while titratable acidity, total protein, antioxidants, phenolic compounds and lactic acid contents increased during fermentation. The fermented guava juice exhibited higher 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS)) radical scavenging activities (85.97% and 75.97%, respectively) at 48 h of fermentation. The concentration of active vitamin B12 in the sample reached 109.5 μg L−1 at 72 h of fermentation. However, this concentration gradually decreased to 70.2 μg L−1 during the storage period. During storage for 28 days at 4 °C, both the fermented and control guava juices exhibited a decline in antioxidant and phenolic compound concentrations. Furthermore, the addition of 20% honey and guava flavor enhanced the organoleptic properties and acceptability of fermented guava juice.

CONCLUSION

The value‐added fermented guava juice could be a novel functional food product to combat vitamin B12 deficiency. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Scaffold‐Forming Collagen and Motor‐Endplate Expressing Muscle Cells for Porcine Laryngoplasty
Authors: Shay Elizabeth O. , Morrison Rachel A. , Zhang Lujuan , Kaefer Samuel L. , Wesson Troy , Cox Abigail , Voytik‐Harbin Sherry L. , Halum Stacey
Published: July 2024

Objective

Vocal fold paralysis impairs quality of life, and no curative injectable therapy exists. We evaluated injection of a novel in situ polymerizing (scaffold‐forming) collagen in the presence and absence of muscle‐derived motor‐endplate expressing cells (MEEs) to promote medialization and recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) regeneration in a porcine model of unilateral vocal fold paralysis.

Methods

Twelve Yucatan minipigs underwent right RLN transection. Autologous muscle progenitor cells were isolated from muscle biopsies, differentiated, and induced to MEEs. Three weeks after RLN injury, animals received injections of collagen, collagen containing MEEs, or saline into the paralyzed right vocal fold. Stimulated laryngeal electromyography and acoustic vocalization were used for function assessments. Larynges were harvested and underwent histologic, gene expression, and further quantitative analyses.

Results

Injections were well‐tolerated, with the collagen scaffold showing immunotolerance and collagen‐encapsulated MEEs remaining viable. Collagen‐treated paralyzed vocal folds showed increased laryngeal adductor muscle volumes relative to that of the uninjured side, with those receiving MEEs and collagen showing the highest volumes. Muscles injected with MEEs and collagen demonstrated increased expression of select neurotrophic (BDNF and NTN1), motor‐endplate (DOK7, CHRNA1, and MUSK), and myogenic (MYOG and MYOD) related genes relative to saline controls.

Conclusion

In a porcine model of unilateral vocal fold paralysis, injection of in situ polymerizing collagen in the absence and presence of MEEs enhanced laryngeal adductor muscle volume, modulated expression of neurotrophic and myogenic factors, and avoided adverse material‐mediated immune responses. Further study is needed to determine long‐term functional outcomes with this novel therapeutic approach.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:4988–4997, 2024
Melt Compounding of Poly(lactic acid)‐Based Composites: Blending Strategies, Process Conditions, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Tao Yiwen , Zhang Yue , Xia Tao , Lin Ning
Published: July 2024

Polylactic acid (PLA), derived from renewable resources, has the advantages of rigidity, thermoplasticity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, and is widely used in many fields such as packaging, agriculture, and biomedicine. The excellent processability properties allow for melt processing treatments such as extrusion, injection molding, blow molding, and thermoforming in the preparation of PLA‐based materials. However, the low toughness and poor thermal stability of PLA limit its practical applications. Compared with pure PLA, conditions such as processing technology, filler, and crystallinity affect the mechanical properties of PLA‐based materials, including tensile strength, Young's modulus, and elongation at break. This review systematically summarizes various technical parameters for melt processing of PLA‐based materials and further discusses the mechanical properties of PLA homopolymers, filler‐reinforced PLA‐based composites, PLA‐based multiphase composites, and reactive composite strategies for PLA‐based composites.
Morphological Transitions of Block Copolymer Micelles: Implications for Mesoporous Materials Ordering
Authors: Moreno Nicolas , Nunes Suzana , Calo Victor
Published: July 2024

The design of block‐copolymer‐based functional materials, including mesoporous membranes and nanoparticles, requires a comprehensive understanding of the hierarchical assembly of block copolymers in selective solvents into micelles and subsequent ordered phases. It is hypothesized that micellar ordering and characteristic assembly can be described using a set of phase parameters that account for entropic and enthalpic interactions. Dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) simulations are used to systematically investigate the self‐assembly of semidiluted block copolymers, resembling isoporous membrane preparation conditions. The effect of Flory–Huggins interaction parameters, block lengths, and concentration on the morphology and polydispersity of the micelles is evaluated. The interaction parameters are mapped into Flory–Huggins theory by considering the block's conformation. These results reveal the effect of polymer concentration and solvent affinity on the morphological transition of the aggregates, in agreement with existing experimental evidence. It is identified that monodisperse‐spherical micelles in solution are fundamental to stabilize ordered states. Weak solvent segregation of the largest block, curvature of the core‐corona interface, and stretching of the corona‐forming one are found to be key to stabilize monodisperse assemblies. These conditions can be predicted using spherical‐micelles packing considerations and a global phase parameter from the Flory–Huggins theory. This study provides valuable insights into the self‐assembly of diblock copolymers and offers a potential way to optimize the preparation of mesoporous ordered structures and micelle ordering in semidiluted systems.
Positive effect of ulnar nerve fascicle transfer to musculocutaneous nerve seeded with allogeneic adipose tissue derived stem cells on nerve regeneration for repairing upper brachial plexus injury in a rat model: A preliminary study
Authors: Selimoglu Muhammed Nebil , Kocacan Metin , Tuncer Seçkin , Tosun Zekeriya , Erdogan Ender
Published: July 2024

Background

Traumatic peripheral nerve injury, with an annual incidence reported to be approximately 13–23 per 100,000 people, is a serious clinical condition that can often lead to significant functional impairment and permanent disability. Although nerve transfer has become increasingly popular in the treatment of brachial plexus injuries, satisfactory results cannot be obtained even with total nerve root transfer, especially after serious injuries. To overcome this problem, we hypothesize that the application of stem cells in conjunction with nerve transfer procedures may be a viable alternative to more aggressive treatments that do not result in adequate improvement. Similarly, some preliminary studies have shown that adipose stem cells combined with acellular nerve allograft provide promising results in the repair of brachial plexus injury. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of combining adipose‐derived stem cells with nerve transfer procedure in a rat brachial plexus injury model.

Methods

Twenty female Wistar rats weighing 300–350 g and aged 8–10 weeks were randomly divided into two groups: a nerve transfer group (NT group) and a nerve transfer combined adipose stem cell group (NT and ASC group). The upper brachial plexus injury model was established by gently avulsing the C5–C6 roots from the spinal cord with microforceps. A nerve transfer from the ulnar nerve to the musculocutaneous nerve (Oberlin procedure) was performed with or without seeded allogeneic adipose tissue‐derived stem cells. Adipose tissue‐derived stem cells at a rate of 2 × 106 cells were injected locally to the surface of the nerve transfer area with a 23‐gauge needle. Immunohistochemistry (S100 and PGP 9.5 antibodies) and electrophysiological data were used to evaluate the effect of nerve repair 12 weeks after surgery.

Results

The mean latency was significantly longer in the NT group (2.0 ± 0.0 ms, 95% CI: 1.96–2.06) than in the NT and ASC group (1.7 ± 0.0 ms, 95% CI: 1.7–1.7) (p < .001). The mean peak value was higher in the NT group (1.7 ± 0.0 mV, 95% CI: 1.7–1.7) than in the NT and ASC group (1.7 ± 0.3 mV, 95% CI: 1.6–1.9) with no significant difference (p = .61). Although S100 and PGP 9.5 positive areas were observed in higher amounts in the NT and ASC group compared to the NT group, the differences were not statistically significant (p = .26 and .08, respectively).

Conclusions

This study conducted on rats provides preliminary evidence that adipose‐derived stem cells may have a positive effect on nerve transfer for the treatment of brachial plexus injury. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow‐up periods are needed to confirm these findings.
Role of the neonatal registered dietitian nutritionist in Canada: A description of staffing and a comparison to practices in the United States
Authors: Merlino Barr Stephanie , Hand Rosa K. , Fenton Tanis R. , Groh‐Wargo Sharon
Published: July 2024

Background

Neonatal registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) are critical members of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) team. Ideal RDN staffing levels are unknown. Current staffing levels of neonatal RDNs in Canadian NICUs have not been recently reported. The objective of this study was to describe neonatal RDN staffing and responsibilities in Canada and contrast these findings with those of neonatal RDNs in the United States.

Methods

An online cross‐sectional neonatal RDN survey was performed in the Fall of 2021 to collect hospital‐level and individual‐RDN–level data. Descriptive statistics were performed to summarize Canadian neonatal RDN staffing levels and responsibilities and compared with US findings.

Results

Canadian RDNs reported a median staffing ratio of 25.3 NICU beds per RDN full‐time equivalent, with neonatal RDNs reporting a desired 31% increase in staffing. The majority of Canadian NICUs (n = 20/24) reported having a dedicated space to prepare infant feeds away from bedside. Canadian neonatal RDNs reported wanting to expand their responsibilities in research, administration, and education. Canadian neonatal RDNs reported a higher rate of order writing privileges as compared with that of US neonatal RDNs.

Conclusion

Canadian neonatal RDNs reported a desired increase in their staffing levels. Neonatal RDNs have the potential to expand their professional role but require additional staffing, dedicated time, and compensation to support this. Further research determining the optimal neonatal RDN staffing ratio to maximize patient outcomes is required.
Preoperative body composition measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis can predict pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery
Authors: Jin Qianwen , Zhang Jun , Jin Jiabin , Zhang Jiaqiang , Fei Si , Liu Yang , Xu Zhiwei , Shi Yongmei
Published: July 2024

Background

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains one of the most severe complications after pancreatic surgery. The methods for predicting pancreatic fistula are limited. We aimed to investigate the predictive value of body composition parameters measured by preoperative bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) on the development of POPF.

Methods

A total of 168 consecutive patients undergoing pancreatic surgery from March 2022 to December 2022 at our institution were included in the study and randomly assigned at a 3:2 ratio to the training group and the validation group. All data, including previously reported risk factors for POPF and parameters measured by BIA, were collected. Risk factors were analyzed by univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis. A prediction model was established to predict the development of POPF based on these parameters.

Results

POPF occurred in 41 of 168 (24.4%) patients. In the training group of 101 enrolled patients, visceral fat area (VFA) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.077, P = 0.001) and fat mass index (FMI) (OR = 0.628, P = 0.027) were found to be independently associated with POPF according to multivariable analysis. A prediction model including VFA and FMI was established to predict the development of POPF with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.753. The efficacy of the prediction model was also confirmed in the internal validation group (AUC 0.785, 95% CI 0.659–0.911).

Conclusions

Preoperative assessment of body fat distribution by BIA can predict the risk of POPF after pancreatic surgery.
Obesity‐ and diet‐induced plasticity in systems that control eating and energy balance
Authors: Ferrario Carrie R. , Münzberg‐Gruening Heike , Rinaman Linda , Betley J. Nicholas , Borgland Stephanie L. , Dus Monica , Fadool Debra A. , Medler Kathryn F. , Morton Gregory J. , Sandoval Darleen A. , de La Serre Claire B. , Stanley Sarah A. , Townsend Kristy L. , Watts Alan G. , Maruvada Padma , Cummings Diana , Cooke Bradley M.
Published: July 2024

In April 2023, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), in partnership with the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the National Institute on Aging, and the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research, hosted a 2‐day online workshop to discuss neural plasticity in energy homeostasis and obesity. The goal was to provide a broad view of current knowledge while identifying research questions and challenges regarding neural systems that control food intake and energy balance. This review includes highlights from the meeting and is intended both to introduce unfamiliar audiences with concepts central to energy homeostasis, feeding, and obesity and to highlight up‐and‐coming research in these areas that may be of special interest to those with a background in these fields. The overarching theme of this review addresses plasticity within the central and peripheral nervous systems that regulates and influences eating, emphasizing distinctions between healthy and disease states. This is by no means a comprehensive review because this is a broad and rapidly developing area. However, we have pointed out relevant reviews and primary articles throughout, as well as gaps in current understanding and opportunities for developments in the field.
Cyber‐attack and defense method for load frequency control in smart grid systems with electric vehicles
Authors: Ranjan Mrinal , Shankar Ravi , Raj Utkarsh , Kumar Sarvesh , Kumar Jitendra
Published: July 2024

The latest advancements in Vehicle‐to‐Grid (V2G) technology enable Electric Vehicles (EVs) to contribute to Frequency Regulation (FR), mitigating the impact of uncertain power fluctuations in renewable resources. However, diverse cyber‐attacks pose threats to the Load Frequency Control (LFC) system and smart grid infrastructure, compromising their accuracy and reliability. This research paper focuses on the effects of cyber‐attacks on frequency regulation in a smart grid system that relies on a communication network. The study proposes a two‐area system and a modified IEEE‐39 bus three‐area system, incorporating intermittent solar photovoltaic and wind turbine sources, traditional conventional sources, and electric vehicles. To ensure frequency stabilization and tie‐line power, the researchers introduce a cascade FOPIDN‐(1+TD) controller. Its parameters are optimized using a novel Quasi Opposition Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm (QOAOA). The proposed approach's dynamic response is compared with other commonly used controllers, demonstrating its effectiveness in maintaining stability. The article focuses on the LFC system and presents a novel approach involving a cyber‐physical model. It introduces a method for detecting and defending against cyber‐attacks using deep learning, specifically utilizing the Long‐Short‐Term‐Memory (LSTM) network. The effectiveness of the proposed defense strategy is demonstrated through experiments conducted on both a two‐area interconnected power system and the IEEE‐39 bus system. The outcomes indicate that the suggested defense mechanism effectively maintains acceptable levels of power system frequency and tie‐line power during cyber‐attacks. Additionally, the validity of the controller's performance is verified through real‐time analysis using Hardware‐In‐The‐Loop (HIL) simulation with the OPAL‐RT platform.
Two channels event‐triggered robust H‐infinity control of Luire industrial cyber physical systems under data injection attacks
Authors: Qin Yanfei , Sun Ziwen
Published: July 2024

By fully taking the effects of data injection attacks, nonlinear disturbances and limited communication resources, the stability of Lurie industrial cyber physical systems with the time‐varying delays is investigated. The two channels event‐triggered dynamic robust control (ERHIC) strategy is proposed for achieving the stability of systems. On one hand, a dynamic output feedback controller is designed to ensure the stable operation of the system under attacks. On other hand, the measurement channel and the control channel (two channels) event‐triggered mechanisms are designed to improve the utilization rate of system resources. The simulation results with the size of capacitor voltage and inductor current under data injection attacks as the object verity the correctness and the effectiveness of the proposed two channels event‐triggered robust H‐infinity control method and the feasibility of the designed dynamic output feedback controller are verified by the simulation results.
Impact of corporate governance on tax avoidance
Authors: Salehi Mahdi , Jabbari Sahar , Hosseiny Zeynab Nourbakhsh , Khargh Fatemeh Eslami
Published: July 2024

In light of the pivotal role that taxes play as a primary source of income, particularly within developing economies, this study aims to examine the influence of various corporate governance (CG) mechanisms on tax avoidance. We employ three proxies to measure tax avoidance or tax management within companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE). The CG mechanisms under scrutiny encompass board size and independence, CEO duality, auditor type, common stock ratio of at least 5% to total stock, managers' common stock holdings about total stock, gender diversity, manager ownership value, board meeting frequency, CEO stock ownership percentage, institutional shareholders' stock holdings, audit committee membership, and financial specialization. This research investigates 192 companies listed on the TSE, utilizing data available on the TSE website from 2011 to 2021. Our findings indicate that while several CG mechanisms, such as board size and independence, audit firm size, gender diversity, institutional ownership, and the specialization of audit committee members, serve to reduce tax avoidance, CEO duality exacerbates it. Moreover, profitability, financial leverage, and capital significantly inhibit tax avoidance. In contrast, the return on assets (ROA), economic growth, and inflation have a pronounced positive association with tax avoidance. A notable constraint of this study lies in its exclusive focus on publicly listed firms, driven by the availability of relevant information. This study offers valuable insights into the three dimensions of tax avoidance and their interaction with CG mechanisms, with implications for performance monitoring.
Impact of the Children's Oncology Group's supportive care clinical practice guideline endorsement program: An institutional survey
Authors: Marchak Jordan Gilleland , Beauchemin Melissa P. , Broglie Larisa , Kelly Katherine Patterson , Seelisch Jennifer , Dupuis L. Lee ,   the Children's Oncology Group Supportive Care Guidelines Task Force
Published: July 2024

Background

Supportive care clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) facilitate the incorporation of the best available evidence into pediatric cancer care. We aimed to assess the impact of the work of the Children's Oncology Group (COG) Supportive Care Guideline Task Force on institutional supportive care practices.

Procedure

An online survey was distributed to representatives at 209 COG sites to assess the awareness, use, and helpfulness of COG‐endorsed supportive care CPGs. Availability of institutional policies regarding 13 topics addressed by current COG‐endorsed CPGs was also assessed. Respondents described their institutional processes for developing supportive care policies.

Results

Representatives from 92 COG sites responded to the survey, and 78% (72/92) were “very aware” of the COG‐endorsed supportive care CPGs. On average, sites had policies that addressed seven COG‐endorsed supportive care CPG topics (median = 7, range: 0‐12). Only 45% (41/92) of sites reported having institutional processes for developing supportive care policies. Of these, most (76%, 31/41) reported that the COG‐endorsed CPGs have a medium or large impact on policy development. Compared with sites without processes for supportive care policy development, sites with established processes had policies on a greater number of topics aligned with current COG‐endorsed CPG topics (mean = 6.6, range: 0‐12 vs mean = 7.9, range: 2‐12; p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Most site respondents were aware of the COG‐endorsed supportive care CPGs. Less than half of the COG sites represented in the survey have processes in place to implement supportive care policies. Improvement in local implementation is required to ensure that patients at COG sites receive evidence‐based supportive care.
Emergency department 30‐Day emergency department revisits among people with sickle cell disease: Variations in characteristics
Authors: Rushing Melinda , Horiuchi Sophia , Zhou Mei , Kavanagh Patricia L. , Reeves Sarah L. , Snyder Angela , Paulukonis Susan
Published: July 2024

People with sickle cell disease (SCD) often have emergency department (ED) revisits. The characteristics of people with SCD with ED revisits were assessed in this study using Medicaid administrative claims data from California and Georgia, representing 2794 and 3641 individuals with SCD, respectively. In both states, those with 6+ primary care provider (PCP) encounters had the highest percentage of ED revisits. In California, those with 6+ hematology encounters had the lowest percentage of individuals with an ED revisit; in Georgia, those with 1‐2 hematology encounters. Increasing access to hematologic care may reduce ED revisits among people with SCD.
Long‐term outcomes among survivors of childhood osteosarcoma: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS)
Authors: Becktell Kerri , Chen Yan , Yasui Yutaka , Phelan Rachel , Armstrong Gregory T. , Link Michael , Oeffinger Kevin , Snyder Claire , Daw Najat , Weil Brent , Weldon Christopher , Chow Eric J. , Schwartz Cindy L.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Treatment strategies for osteosarcoma evolving between 1970 and 1999 improved 5‐year survival and continue as standard of care today. This report evaluates the impact of these evolving therapies on long‐term health outcomes.

Methods

Five‐year survivors of childhood osteosarcoma in CCSS treated from 1970 to 1999 were evaluated for late (>5 years from diagnosis) mortality, chronic health conditions (CHCs), and health status using piecewise‐exponential and logistical models. Comparisons were made between survivors and siblings without cancer, and among survivors examining historical and current standard chemotherapies (e.g., methotrexate/doxorubicin/cisplatin [MAP] vs. others), specific chemotherapy agents and surgical approaches (amputation vs. limb salvage [LS]). Models were evaluated adjusting for attained age, sex, race, ethnicity, and age at diagnosis.

Results

A total of 1257 survivors of osteosarcoma were followed on average for 24.4 years. Twenty‐year all‐cause late mortality was 13.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11.7%–14.9%) overall and 11.7% (95% CI: 6.9%–16.5%) for the subset treated with MAP plus LS. Survivors were at higher risk of CHCs (rate ratio [RR] 3.7, 95% CI: 3.2–4.3) than the sibling cohort, most notably having more serious cardiac, musculoskeletal, and hearing CHCs. Within the survivor cohort, the risk of severe CHCs was twice as high with MAP versus no chemotherapy (RR 2.1, 95% CI: 1.3–3.4). Compared with primary amputation, serious musculoskeletal CHCs were higher after LS (RR 6.6, 95% CI: 3.6–13.4), without discernable differences in health status.

Conclusion

Contemporary osteosarcoma therapy with MAP plus LS, while improving 5‐year disease‐free survival, continues to be associated with a high burden of late mortality, CHCs, and health status limitations.
Miniprotein engineering for inhibition of PD‐1/PD‐L1 interaction
Authors: Ciesiołkiewicz Agnieszka , Lizandra Perez Juan , Skalniak Lukasz , Noceń Paweł , Berlicki Łukasz
Published: July 2024

Miniproteins constitute an excellent basis for the development of structurally demanding functional molecules. The engrailed homeodomain, a three‐helix‐containing miniprotein, was applied as a scaffold for constructing programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐1/PD‐L1) interaction inhibitors. PD‐L1 binders were initially designed using the computer‐aided approach and subsequently optimized iteratively. The conformational stability was assessed for each obtained miniprotein using circular dichroism spectroscopy, indicating that numerous mutations could be introduced. The formation of a sizable hydrophobic surface at the inhibitor that fits the molecular target imposed the necessity for the incorporation of additional charged amino acid residues to retain its appropriate solubility. Finally, the miniprotein effectively binding to PD‐L1 (KD = 51.4 nM) that inhibits PD‐1/PD‐L1 interaction in cell‐based studies with EC50 = 3.9 μM, was discovered.
Oxygen‐Rich Porous Organic Polymer for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Huang Ping , Jiang Xiaowei , Dai Zheng , Zhang Qin , Chen Xiaosong , Ma Libo , Gao Weibin , Xiong Xu
Published: July 2024

Oxygen atoms have been widely used in porous organic polymers, which has attracted much attention from researchers. Herein, porous organic polymer with high oxygen content is synthesized with oxygen‐rich monomer as construction unit and anhydrous aluminum chloride as catalyst; then phase‐change materials (PCMs) composites are prepared by self‐adsorption method. The pore properties of the oxygen‐rich porous organic polymer are characterized by nitrogen absorption and desorption method. The properties of the PCM composites are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. The results show that the oxygen‐rich porous organic polymer has high Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area (465 m2 g−1) and excellent thermal stability. The PCM composites possess high encapsulation rate (50.6 wt%) and latent heat (124.7 kJ g−1). After several thermal cycles, the thermal properties of all PCM composites are almost unchanged, and no leakage phenomenon is found. It can be seen that oxygen‐rich porous polymers have potential applications in PCM adsorption and thermal energy storage.
Separation and Evaluation of the Gradient Relaxation in the Atomic Comagnetometer
Authors: Yuan Linlin , Duan Lihong , Gao Hang , Cai Ze , Zhang Kai , Huang Jiong , Liu Sixun , Wang Zhuo , Liu Feng , Quan Wei
Published: July 2024

In the atomic comagnetometer, nuclear spin relaxation is a core parameter that affects the magnetic field suppression ability and stability, and is influenced by various gradient fields. It is necessary to measure and separate the effects of different gradients on nuclear spin, which helps to effectively suppress them separately. This article proposes a periodic optical pumping method for separating and measuring polarization gradient relaxation and magnetic field gradient relaxation, considering the effects of pump light and applied magnetic field. The comprehensive influence model for pump light on transverse nuclear spin relaxation is established, and the measurement steps and parameter selection criteria for the proposed method considering signal decay characteristics are provided. Furthermore, the proportion of various gradient relaxations is quantified. This work provides an evaluation method for gradient relaxation suppression, supporting the improvement of the measurement sensitivity and stability of the atomic comagnetometer.