bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research and innovation in agricultural water management for a water‐secure world
Authors: Smith Mark D. , Sikka Alok , Dirwai Tinashe L. , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe
Published: August 2023

There is increased awareness that the current food system is unsustainable and that transformative research, development and innovation in agricultural water management (AWM) are needed to transform water and food systems under climate change. We provide an overview of research efforts, challenges, opportunities and innovations to improve water resource management and sustainability, especially in the agricultural sector. We highlight how sustainable AWM is central to balancing the needs of a growing population and increasing food demand under increasing water insecurity and scarcity, with environmental and socio‐economic outcomes. Innovative technologies are being developed to optimize water use and productivity through sustainable irrigation technologies, irrigation modernization and smart water management. However, these innovations still need to fully address equity, inequality and social justice concerning access to water, infrastructure and the delayed technological advances in the global South. This requires adopting transdisciplinary approaches, as espoused by the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus, to better anticipate and balance trade‐offs, optimize synergies and mitigate risks of maladaptation. Through such transdisciplinary approaches, AWM innovations could better consider local socio‐economic, governance, institutional and technological constraints, thus allowing for more contextualized and relevant innovations that can be scaled.
Ethyl maltol disrupt iron homeostasis in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cell line
Authors: Sun Yuchen , Bressler Joseph
Published: August 2023

Ethyl Maltol (EM) is a commonly used flavoring compound and has been reported to bind iron and facilitate iron transport. Since EM is membrane permeable, the potential that it disrupts intracellular iron homeostasis was investigated. EM increased the labile iron pool in SH‐SY5Y cells and increased iron‐responsive protein activity using a reporter assay in the HEK293 cells. EM induced the expression of transferrin receptor 1 messenger RNA (mRNA) and decreased the expression of ferritin light chain protein in SH‐SY5Y cells. Expression of the iron‐responsive amyloid precursor protein attenuated the effects of EM on these iron‐responsive genes. EM treatment decreased cell viability and increased DNA damage. EM also increased the level of phosphorylated p53 and the expression of the p53‐regulated genes, p21, and 14‐3‐3σ. The expression of amyloid precursor protein (APP) attenuated the effects of EM on viability, DNA damage, and the p53 response. Overall, we suggest that EM decreases cell viability through a mechanism involving the p53 pathway. The attenuated responses observed in cells expressing APP suggest that the effects of EM are due to disrupting iron homeostasis.
Endocrine‐disrupting compounds and metabolomic reprogramming in breast cancer
Authors: Winz Cassandra , Zong Wei‐Xing , Suh Nanjoo
Published: August 2023

Endocrine‐disrupting chemicals pose a growing threat to human health through their increasing presence in the environment and their potential interactions with the mammalian endocrine systems. Due to their structural similarity to hormones like estrogen, these chemicals can interfere with endocrine signaling, leading to many deleterious effects. Exposure to estrogenic endocrine‐disrupting compounds (EDC) is a suggested risk factor for the development of breast cancer, one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in women. However, the mechanisms through which EDCs contribute to breast cancer development remain elusive. To rapidly proliferate, cancer cells undertake distinct metabolic programs to utilize existing nutrients in the tumor microenvironment and synthesize macromolecules de novo. EDCs are known to dysregulate cell signaling pathways related to cellular metabolism, which may be an important mechanism through which they exert their cancer‐promoting effects. These altered pathways can be studied via metabolomic analysis, a new advancement in ‐omics technologies that can interrogate molecular pathways that favor cancer development and progression. This review will summarize recent discoveries regarding EDCs and the metabolic reprogramming that they may induce to facilitate the development of breast cancer.
Highly selective reduction of nitro compounds catalyzed by MOF‐derived glucose stabilized Fe3O4 under mild conditions
Authors: Bisafar Masoumeh Bagheri , Malmir Masoume , Heravi Majid M.
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Today, studies on the catalytic reduction of nitroarenes and dyes are of crucial because nitroarenes, especially 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NPh) and dyes, which are considered important pollutants in wastewater, can pose risks to humans. It is noteworthy that amines are known as valuable intermediates in many industries, therefore, providing an efficient method to achieve these compounds is necessary to protect the environment. In this project, a magnetic MOFs‐based catalyst (containing Cu species as an active site) was found to offer a unique and cost‐effective route for the catalytic reduction of nitroarene and organic dyes.

RESULTS

In this study, a novel magnetic catalyst, Fe3O4@glu/Cu‐TAZ‐IMI, based on MOF was synthesized. The core‐shell structure of Fe3O4@glu, functionalized with aspartic acid with TAZ‐IMI and Cu(OAc)2, resulted in the formation of magnetic MOF structure. The structure of this new nanocomposite was identified by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), Scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray (SEM/EDX), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Value stream mapping (VSM), Raman spectroscopy and Inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES). The catalytic performance of the synthesized catalyst was evaluated for the reduction of nitro compounds and organic dyes, and the results were validated by Gas chromatography‐mass (GC–MS) and ultraviolet light (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. Moreover, the rate constants for the reduction of 4‐NPh, Congo red (CR), and Methylene blue (MB) followed pseudo first‐order kinetics model, which calculated values of 0.31 min−1, 0.355 min−1 and 0.044 s−1, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The catalytic efficacy of Fe3O4@glu/Cu‐TAZ‐IMI catalyst remained intact during the reduction of nitroarenes and organic dyes in aqueous and mild conditions. The findings demonstrate that this novel heterogeneous mesoporous catalyst exhibits exceptional catalytic activity and remarkable stability towards reduction reactions. Moreover, owning to its thermal and structural stability, the catalyst could be easily magnetically separated, recovered, and reused for up to 10 consecutive cycles without experiencing significant activity decline, effectively preventing the depletion of copper species from its structure. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Brain structural changes in alternating hemiplegia of childhood using single‐case voxel‐based morphometry analysis
Authors: Arizono Elly , Sato Noriko , Shigemoto Yoko , Kimura Yukio , Chiba Emiko , Maki Hiroyuki , Matsuda Hiroshi , Takeshita Eri , Shimizu‐Motohashi Yuko , Sasaki Masayuki , Saito Kazuhiro
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose

Alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC) is a rare neurodevelopmental disease caused by ATP1A3 mutations. Using voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) analysis, we compared an AHC patient cohort with controls. Additionally, with single‐case VBM analysis, we assessed the associations between clinical severity and brain volume in patients with AHC.

Materials and methods

To investigate structural brain changes in gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) volumes between 9 patients with AHC and 20 age‐matched controls, VBM analysis was performed using three‐dimensional T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Single‐case VBM analysis was also performed on nine patients with AHC to investigate the associations between the respective volumes of GM/WM differences and the motor level, cognitive level, and status epilepticus severity in patients with AHC.

Results

Compared with controls, patients with AHC showed significant GM volume reductions in both hippocampi and diffuse cerebellum, and there were WM reductions in both cerebral hemispheres. In patients with AHC, cases with more motor dysfunction, the less GM/WM volume of cerebellum was shown. Three of the six cases with cognitive dysfunction showed a clear GM volume reduction in the insulae. Five of the six cases with status epilepticus showed the GM volume reduction in hippocampi. One case had severe status epilepticus without motor dysfunction and showed no cerebellar atrophy.

Conclusion

With single‐case VBM analysis, we could show the association between region‐specific changes in brain volume and the severity of various clinical symptoms even in a small sample of subjects.
The histology and growth rate of Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) claws
Authors: Myburgh Albert , Myburgh Jan , Steyl Johan , Downs Colleen T. , Botha Hannes , Robinson Liam , Woodborne Stephan
Published: August 2023

The histology and growth of reptilian and crocodilian claws (ungues) have been extensively studied; however, Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) claws have not received adequate attention. Furthermore, age estimations for reptilian claws remain unexplored, despite Nile crocodile claws being used in long‐term dietary reconstruction studies, assuming certain age‐related patterns. In this study, we investigate the histology and growth patterns of Nile crocodile claws, aiming to infer axes for sampling cornified material for radiocarbon dating and establish age estimations for crocodilian claws. Our findings reveal that Nile crocodile claws exhibit growth patterns similar to other reptilians, presenting as modified scutes/scales with an age profile along the sagittal plane. This profile starts at the basal germ matrix and progressively expands in thickness and age dorsoventrally towards the apex or “tip.” Consequently, the oldest corneous material is concentrated at the most dorsal point of the claw's apex. To validate previous dietary reconstruction assumptions, we conducted radiocarbon dating on this region of the claw, which supported the idea that retained corneous material in the claws is typically relatively young (5–10 years old) due to abrasion. Our study contributes insights into the histology and growth dynamics of Nile crocodile claws, shedding light on their use in dietary reconstruction studies and emphasizing the significance of considering age‐related assumptions in such investigations.
Electrochemical sensor based on molecularly imprinted copolymer for selective and simultaneous determination of riboflavin, dopamine, and L‐tryptophan
Authors: Mahdi Nagham , Roushani Mahmoud , Karazan Zahra Mirzaei
Published: August 2023

This research shows the exact detection of riboflavin (RF), dopamine (DA), and L‐tryptophan (Trp) through molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) based on the electropolymerization method. MIP was placed on the surface of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) by electropolymerization of monomers such as catechol and para‐aminophenol, in the presence of all three analytes. The introduced sensor was investigated using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and electrochemical methods, for example, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The MIP/GCE performs well in terms of selectivity, reproducibility, repeatability, and stability. This sensor revealed good linear ranges of 0.005–500 μM for RF, 0.05–500 μM for DA, and 0.1–250 μM for Trp with limits of detection (LOD) as 0.0016 μM, 0.016 μM, and 0.03 μM for RF, DA, and Trp, respectively. The modified GCE was successfully applied to detect RF, DA, and Trp in serum and milk samples with satisfactory results.
QuEChERS method combined to liquid chromatography high‐resolution mass spectrometry for the accurate and sensitive simultaneous determination of pyrrolizidine and tropane alkaloids in cereals and spices
Authors: Rollo Eleonora , Catellani Dante , Dall'Asta Chiara , Suman Michele
Published: August 2023

Within the last decades, in the EU, there has been an increasing interest in toxic plant alkaloids as food contaminants, especially after the continuous and growing consumption of plant‐based foods compared with food of animal origin. In this regard, the once neglected presence of these tropane alkaloids (TAs) and pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) has recently been reconsidered by the European Food Safety Authority, highlighting the lack of data and the need to develop risk assessment strategies. For this reason, the emphasis has been placed on detecting their occurrence in food through the development of accurate and sensitive analytical methods to achieve the determination of these compounds. The present study aims to elaborate and validate an analytical method based on QuEChERS sample preparation approach, exploiting the UHPLC coupled to the HRMS to simultaneously identify and quantify 21 PAs and two TAs in cereals and spices. For TAs, the obtained limit of detection (LOD) is 0.1 μg·kg−1 and the limit of quantification (LOQ) is 0.4 μg·kg−1, while for PAs, the LODs values ranging between 0.2 to 0.3 μg·kg−1 and the LOQ, between 0.4 and 0.8 μg·kg−1, ensuring compliance with the recently established European Regulations. Several commercial samples were analysed to further verify the applicability of this comprehensive analytical approach.
Efficacy and safety of Oral LL‐37 against the Omicron BA.5.1.3 variant of SARS‐COV‐2: A randomized trial
Authors: Zhao Yiming , Zhang Hanlin , Zhao Zhizhuang , Liu Fangfang , Dong Meng , Chen Li , Shen Mingzhi , Luan Zhe , Zhang Hanwen , Wu Junling , Li Congyong , Chen Jun , Li Chao , Liu Zhiwei , Chen Yi , Zheng Aihua , Li Huiling , Wang Shufang , Jin Wanzhu , Sun Gang
Published: August 2023

Recombinant LL‐37 Lactococcus lactis (Oral LL‐37) was designed to prevent progression of COVID‐19 by targeting virus envelope, however, effectiveness and safety of Oral LL‐37 in clinical application was unclear. A total of 238 adult inpatients, open‐labelled, randomized, placebo‐controlled, single‐center study was conducted to investigate the primary end points, including negative conversion time (NCT) of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA and adverse events (AEs). As early as intervened on 6th day of case confirmed, Oral LL‐37 could significantly shorten NCT (LL‐37 9.80 ± 2.67 vs. placebo 14.04 ± 5.89, p < 0.01). For Oral LL‐37, as early as treated in 6 days, the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for a primary event of nucleic acid negative outcome was 6.27‐fold higher than 7‐day‐later (HR: 6.276, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.631–10.848, p < 0.0001), and the adjusted HR of Oral LL‐37 within 6 days is higher than placebo (HR: 2.427 95% CI: 1.239–4.751, p = 0.0097). No severe AEs were observed during hospitalization and follow‐up investigation. This study shows that early intervention of Oral LL‐37 incredibly reduces NCT implying a potential for clearance of Omicron BA.5.1.3 without evident safety concerns.
Cytokines, chemokines, and cells growth factors in patients with mild to moderate SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: A case‐control study
Authors: Gondim Rafhaella N. D. G. , de Arruda Erico Antônio Gomes , Neto Roberto da Justa Pires , Medeiros Melissa Soares , Quirino‐Filho José , Clementino Marco A. , Magalhães Lyvia Maria Vasconcelos Carneiro , Cavalcante Karene Ferreira , Viana Vânia Angelica Feitosa , Mello Liana Perdigão , Carlos Luciana M. B. , Havt Alexandre , Lima Aldo A. M.
Published: August 2023

Several biomarkers have been evaluated as predictors of severity or in directing the treatment of COVID‐19, however there are no conclusive results. In this study, we evaluated serum levels of cytokines, chemokines, and cell growth factors in association with the pathobiology of mild to moderate SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Serum levels of SARS‐CoV‐2 infected patients (n = 113) and flu symptoms individuals negative for SARS‐CoV‐2 (n = 58), tested by the RT‐qPCR test—nasal swab were compared to healthy controls (n = 53). Results showed that the proinflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, MCP‐3, TNF‐α, and G‐CSF were increased in symptomatic patients and the cytokines IL‐6 and IL‐10 were associated with patients positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 when compared to healthy controls. Symptoms associated with COVID‐19 were fever, anosmia, ageusia, and myalgia. For patients without SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, their major symptom was sore throat. The pathobiology of mild to moderate SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was associated with increasing proinflammatory cytokines and a pleiotropic IL‐6 and anti‐inflammatory IL‐10 cytokines compared to healthy controls. Thus, knowledge about the pathophysiology and the involvement of biomarkers in the mild to moderate profile of the disease should be evaluated. Monitoring these biomarkers in patients with mild to moderate disease can help establish adequate treatment and prevention strategies for long‐term COVID‐19.
Climate change impacts on spatial and seasonal meteorological drought characteristics for the island of Ireland
Authors: Meresa Hadush , Murphy Conor
Published: August 2023

Understanding how climate change is likely to impact on meteorological droughts is key to informing adaptation planning. For Ireland, little research has examined how droughts are likely to change in future. Here we examine changes in the monthly climate water balance, aridity index and changes in magnitude, frequency and duration of droughts using standardized drought indices for the island of Ireland derived from bias‐adjusted CORDEX simulations for the 2080s (2070–2099), forced with a high (RCP8.5) and moderate (RCP4.5) emissions pathway. Findings highlight that increases in potential evapotranspiration, driven by increasing temperature, together with changing seasonal rainfall patterns increase aridity in summer with water deficits extending into spring months, especially in the east and midlands by the end of the century. Increases in drought frequency and magnitude are also evident, with greatest increases for RCP8.5. Critically, increases are considerably greater for the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) than for the standardized precipitation index (SPI), emphasizing the importance of using metrics that capture potential evapotranspiration in monitoring and assessing future drought risk. Summer and spring show the greatest increase in drought magnitude and frequency, most marked in the east of the island. By contrast, multiseasonal droughts, assessed using 6‐month accumulation periods show more modest changes in magnitude and duration. The resultant impacts of climate change on drought for Ireland would require considerable adaptation given the vulnerabilities exposed by the 2018 drought.
The lived experiences of individuals with high‐functioning autism during the job interview process: A phenomenological study
Authors: Ellestad Andrew I. , Beymer Lisa L. , Villegas Sal
Published: August 2023

Individuals with high‐functioning autism (HFA) have demonstrated they have many significant benefits that they can contribute to an employer. However, given their social and behavioral differences, many individuals find themselves unemployed or underemployed. Presented here is a phenomenological study consisting of 12 self‐identified HFA adults, which analyzes the lived experiences of these individuals specifically during a job interview. Four major themes emerged from this study: Interview Structure, Perceived Competency, Social Camouflaging, and Forced Normality. The findings of this study are clear that the standard interview processes used cause undue stress and anxiety for neurodivergent populations.
Effect of the line scanning driving of active‐matrix display on the measurement of display temporal characteristics
Authors: Hong Hyungki
Published: August 2023

Temporal characteristics are crucial factors influencing display performance. For an active‐matrix display, signals are applied sequentially line‐by‐line, and the temporal response of each horizontal line changes depending on different timings. When recording the temporal response of a display, the probe of the measuring device must have the finite size and shutter time. As the finite‐size probe records the temporal responses of multiple lines with different timings, the number of lines covered by the finite‐size probe affects the obtained result. And the effects due to the timing difference of the sequential driving can be misinterpreted as the temporal response of the display. In this study, the contribution of the various factors, such as the camera shutter time, probe size of the measuring device, temporal transition time, and display frame rate was evaluated to separate the temporal characteristics of the display from the effect caused by these factors. A procedure to estimate only the temporal response of a display without such effects is devised. The effectiveness of the proposed procedure was verified based on the spatial temporal record obtained by a high‐speed camera of video frame rates of 9000 and 12,000 per second.
Ergonomic risk assessment of surgeon's position during radical prostatectomy: Laparoscopic versus robotic approach
Authors: Hayashi Marcel Calegari , Sarri Almir J. , Pereira Pâmella Arielle Sandrin Veitas , Rocha Mauricio Murce , Zequi Stenio de Cassio , Machado Marcos Tobias , de Souza Alessandra Hübner , Magno Luiz Alexandre Viana , Faria Eliney Ferreira
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives

Radical prostatectomy (RP) is a definitive surgical therapy for localized prostate cancer. Evidence suggests that the poor ergonomics of surgeons during RP may lead to work‐related musculoskeletal disorders and loss of productivity. Since each surgery modality has its physical demands, we compared the ergonomic risk between laparoscopic (LRP) and robotic‐assisted (RARP) radical prostatectomy.

Methods

The study assessed the posture of 10 urological surgeons during LRP and RARP surgeries with the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) scale.

Results

We found that the RARP approach resulted in lower REBA scores over the LRP procedure.

Conclusions

Robotic surgery improves body posture for the urological surgeon like in other medical specialties. However, the surgeons display harmful postures in both surgeries.
Fungal and Bacterial Microbiome in Sinus Mucosa of Patients with and without Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Lee Jivianne T. , Simpson Carra A. , Yang Hong‐Ho , Suh Jeffrey D. , Wang Marilene B. , Lagishetty Venu , Liang Fengting , Jacobs Jonathan P.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Dysbiosis of the sinonasal microbiome has been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, the mycobiome remains largely understudied, and microbial alterations associated with specific CRS subtypes have yet to be delineated. The objective of this study is to investigate the fungal and bacterial microbiome of sinus mucosa in CRS patients with and without nasal polyposis (CRSwNP and CRSsNP) versus healthy controls.

Methods

Sinus mucosa was obtained from 92 patients (31 CRSsNP, 31 CRSwNP, and 30 controls) undergoing endoscopic sinus/skull base surgery. Data regarding demographics, Lund‐MacKay scores, and histopathology were collected. Fungal and bacterial microbiome analysis was performed utilizing internal transcribed spacer amplicon and 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results

Beta diversity of the sinonasal mycobiome differed significantly between CRS and controls (p = 0.001) and between CRSwNP and controls (p = 0.049), but not between CRSwNP and CRSsNP (p = 0.32) nor between CRSsNP and controls (p = 0.06). With respect to the bacterial microbiome, significantly lower alpha diversity was observed between CRS and controls (p < 0.001), CRSwNP versus controls (p < 0.001), and CRSsNP versus controls (p < 0.001). Beta diversity was also significantly different at the genus level between CRSwNP and CRSsNP (p = 0.019), CRSwNP and controls (p = 0.002)), and CRSsNP and controls (p < 0.001). However, alpha and beta diversity did not differ significantly between CRS patients with/without eosinophils or correlate with Lund‐MacKay scores.

Conclusions

Differences in mycobiota diversity in CRS patients in comparison with controls suggest that alterations in the mycobiome may contribute to disease pathogenesis. Our findings also confirmed that diminished diversity among bacterial communities is associated with CRS and that significant differences are present in microbial composition between CRSwNP and CRSsNP.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:1054–1062, 2024
Z‐Form Extracellular DNA in Pediatric CRS May Provide a Mechanism for Recalcitrance to Treatment
Authors: Hofer Llwyatt K. , Jurcisek Joseph A. , Elmaraghy Charles , Goodman Steven D. , Bakaletz Lauren O.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

We examined sinus mucosal samples recovered from pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients for the presence of Z‐form extracellular DNA (eDNA) due to its recently elucidated role in pathogenesis of disease. Further, we immunolabeled these specimens for the presence of both members of the bacterial DNA‐binding DNABII protein family, integration host factor (IHF) and histone‐like protein (HU), due to their known role in converting common B‐DNA to the rare Z‐form.

Methods

Sinus mucosa samples recovered from 20 patients during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) were immunolabelled for B‐ and Z‐DNA, as well as for both bacterial DNABII proteins.

Results

Nineteen of 20 samples (95%) included areas rich in eDNA, with the majority in the Z‐form. Areas positive for B‐DNA were restricted to the most distal regions of the mucosal specimen. Labeling for both DNABII proteins was observed on B‐ and Z‐DNA, which aligned with the role of these proteins in the B‐to‐Z DNA conversion.

Conclusions

Abundant Z‐form eDNA in culture‐positive pediatric CRS samples suggested that bacterial DNABII proteins were responsible for the conversion of eukaryotic B‐DNA that had been released into the luminal space by PMNs during NETosis, to the Z‐form. The presence of both DNABII proteins on B‐DNA and Z‐DNA supported the known role of these bacterial proteins in the B‐to‐Z DNA conversion. Given that Z‐form DNA both stabilizes the bacterial biofilm and inactivates PMN NET‐mediated killing of trapped bacteria, we hypothesize that this conversion may be contributing to the chronicity and recalcitrance of CRS to treatment.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:1564–1571, 2024
Poincaré's inequality and Sobolev spaces with monomial weights
Authors: Castro Hernán , Cornejo Marco
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we use a weighted version of Poincaré's inequality to study density and extension properties of weighted Sobolev spaces over some open set . Additionally, we study the specific case of monomial weights , showing the validity of a weighted Poincaré inequality together with some embedding properties of the associated weighed Sobolev spaces.
Do chatbots establish “humanness” in the customer purchase journey? An investigation through explanatory sequential design
Authors: Dwivedi Yogesh K. , Balakrishnan Janarthanan , Baabdullah Abdullah M. , Das Ronnie
Published: August 2023

Chatbots incorporate various behavioral and psychological marketing elements to satisfy customers at various stages of their purchase journey. This research follows the foundations of the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) and examines how cognitive and peripheral cues impact experiential dimensions, leading to chatbot user recommendation intentions. The study introduced warmth and competence as mediating variables in both the purchase and postpurchase stages, utilizing a robust explanatory sequential mixed‐method research design. The researchers tested and validated the proposed conceptual model using a 3 × 3 factorial design, collecting 354 responses in the purchase stage and 286 responses in the postpurchase stage. In the second stage, they conducted in‐depth qualitative interviews (Study 2) to gain further insights into the validity of the experimental research (Study 1). The results obtained from Study 1 revealed that “cognitive cues” and “competence” significantly influence recommendation intentions among chatbot users. On the other hand, “peripheral cues” and warmth significantly contribute to positive experiences encountered during the purchase stage. The researchers further identified 69 thematic codes through exploratory research, providing a deeper understanding of the variables. Theoretically, this study extends the ELM by introducing new dimensions to human‐machine interactions at the heart of digital transformation. From a managerial standpoint, the study emphasizes the significance of adding a “humanness” element in chatbot development to create more engaging and positive customer experiences actively.
Recent application of direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry in plant materials analysis with emphasis on traditional Chinese herbal medicine
Authors: Wang Yang , Liu Shuying
Published: August 2023

Direct analysis in real time (DART) represents a new generation of ionization techniques that are used to rapidly ionize small molecules under ambient environments. The combination of DART with various mass spectrometry (MS) instruments allows analyzing multiple plant materials, including traditional Chinese herbal medicines (TCHMs), under simple or no sample treatment conditions. This review discussed the DART principles, including devices, ionization mechanisms, and operation parameters. Typical spectra detected by DART‐MS were exhibited and discussed. Numerous applications of DART‐MS in the fields of plant material and TCHM analysis were reviewed, including compound identification, biomarker discovery, fingerprinting analysis, and quantification analysis. Besides, modifications and improvements of DART‐MS, such as hyphenated application with other separation methods, laser‐based desorption techniques, and online sampling configuration, were summarized as well.
Metal–organic frameworks modified electrode for H2S detections in biological and pharmaceutical agents
Authors: Durmus Ceren , Arul Ponnusamy , Alhaji A. , Shekhah Osama , Mani Veerappan , Eddaoudi Mohamed , Salama Khaled Nabil
Published: August 2023

The development of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) sensors is essential to address H2S‐related pharmacology since slow‐releasing H2S medications have been identified to be prospective options for cancer treatments. Here, we described an electrochemical sensor for highly selective and sensitive detection of aqueous H2S, using a thin film of fumarate‐based face‐centered cubic (fcu)‐based metal–organic frameworks (fum‐fcu‐MOF) modified on laser‐scribed graphene (LSGE). The fum‐fcu‐MOF has shown a strong affinity and chemical stability to H2S analysis. The electrochemical and H2S catalytic properties were studied for fum‐fcu‐MOF/LSGE. An amperometry and differential pulse voltammetry techniques were demonstrated to validate the sensor. The resulting sensor delivered acceptable analytical parameters in terms of; detection limit (3.0 µM), dynamic range (10–500 µM), reproducibility, and stability (94.7%). The sensor's practical validity was demonstrated in bacterial cells and H2S‐releasing drug, where the sensor was able to monitor the continuous release of in‐situ H2S. The pharmacokinetics of a slow releasing H2S donor is accessed at different time intervals and different concentration levels. Our research indicate that this fum‐fcu‐MOF based H2S sensor holds potential in understanding pharmacokinetics of H2S releasing drugs.
Cellular senescence primes liver fibrosis regression through Notch‐EZH2
Authors: Song Ping , Duan Juan‐Li , Ding Jian , Liu Jing‐Jing , Fang Zhi‐Qiang , Xu Hao , Li Zhi‐Wen , Du Wei , Xu Ming , Ling Yu‐Wei , He Fei , Tao Kai‐Shan , Wang Lin
Published: August 2023

Cellular senescence plays a pivotal role in wound healing. At the initiation of liver fibrosis regression, accumulated senescent cells were detected and genes of senescence were upregulated. Flow cytometry combined with single‐cell RNA sequencing analyses revealed that most of senescent cells were liver nonparenchymal cells. Removing senescent cells by dasatinib and quercetin (DQ), alleviated hepatic cellular senescence, impeded fibrosis regression, and disrupted liver sinusoids. Clearance of senescent cells not only decreased senescent macrophages but also shrank the proportion of anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages through apoptotic pathway. Subsequently, macrophages were depleted by clodronate, which diminished hepatic senescent cells and impaired fibrosis regression. Mechanistically, the change of the epigenetic regulator enhancer of zeste homolog2 (EZH2) accompanied with the emergence of hepatic senescent cells while liver fibrosis regressed. Blocking EZH2 signaling by EPZ6438 reduced hepatic senescent cells and macrophages, decelerating liver fibrosis regression. Moreover, the promoter region of EZH2 was transcriptionally suppressed by Notch‐Hes1 (hairy and enhancer of split 1) signaling. Disruption of Notch in macrophages using Lyz2 (lysozyme 2) Cre‐RBP‐J (recombination signal binding protein Jκ) f/f transgenic mice, enhanced hepatic cellular senescence, and facilitated fibrosis regression by upregulating EZH2 and blocking EZH2 abrogated the above effects caused by Notch deficiency. Ultimately, adopting Notch inhibitor Ly3039478 or exosome‐mediated RBP‐J decoy oligodeoxynucleotides accelerated liver fibrosis regression by augmenting hepatic cellular senescence.
Bone Mineral Density and the Risk of Parkinson's Disease in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Park Kye‐Yeung , Jung Jin‐Hyung , Hwang Hwan‐Sik , Park Hoon‐Ki , Han Kyungdo , Nam Ga Eun
Published: August 2023

Background

Whether bone mineral density (BMD) is related to the risk of Parkinson's disease (PD) is unclear.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to examine the association between BMD status and incident PD in postmenopausal women.

Methods

We retrospectively examined a nationwide cohort of 272,604 women aged 66 years who participated in the 2009–2012 Korean national health screening for transitional ages. BMD was evaluated using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry of the central bones. The use of antiosteoporosis medications (AOMs) was assessed. We performed multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression to evaluate the association between BMD and PD risk by calculating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

During the median follow‐up of 7.7 years, 2,884 (1.1%) incident PD cases developed. After adjusting for confounding factors, lower BMD was associated with an increased risk of PD (P for trend <0.001). Individuals with osteoporosis had a 1.40‐fold higher HR (1.40, 95% CI: 1.25–1.56) than those with a normal BMD. Sensitivity analyses suggested the associations robust to longer lag periods and further adjustment. These associations were prominent in individuals without AOM use before or after enrollment (P for interaction = 0.031 and 0.014). Increased risks of PD in individuals with osteopenia and osteoporosis who did not use AOMs were attenuated by the medication use during the follow‐up period, regardless of previous AOM use.

Conclusions

Lower postmenopausal BMD and osteoporosis were associated with an increased risk of PD. In addition, this association could be mitigated using AOMs. Proper management of BMD in postmenopausal women may help prevent PD. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Rheumatoid arthritis molecular targets and their importance to flavonoid‐based therapy
Authors: Rufino Ana T. , Freitas Marisa , Proença Carina , Ferreira de Oliveira José M. P. , Fernandes Eduarda , Ribeiro Daniela
Published: August 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive, chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory, and systemic condition that primarily affects the synovial joints and adjacent tissues, including bone, muscle, and tendons. The World Health Organization recognizes RA as one of the most prevalent chronic inflammatory diseases. In the last decade, there was an expansion on the available RA therapeutic options which aimed to improve patient's quality of life. Despite the extensive research and the emergence of new therapeutic approaches and drugs, there are still significant unwanted side effects associated to these drugs and still a vast number of patients that do not respond positively to the existing therapeutic strategies. Over the years, several references to the use of flavonoids in the quest for new treatments for RA have emerged. This review aimed to summarize the existing literature about the flavonoids' effects on the major pathogenic/molecular targets of RA and their potential use as lead compounds for the development of new effective molecules for RA treatment. It is demonstrated that flavonoids can modulate various players in synovial inflammation, regulate immune cell function, decrease synoviocytes proliferation and balance the apoptotic process, decrease angiogenesis, and stop/prevent bone and cartilage degradation, which are all dominant features of RA. Although further investigation is necessary to determine the effectiveness of flavonoids in humans, the available data from in vitro and in vivo models suggest their potential as new disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs. This review highlights the use of flavonoids as a promising avenue for future research in the treatment of RA.
On the Riemann problem and interaction of elementary waves for two‐layered blood flow model through arteries
Authors: Jana Sumita , Kuila Sahadeb
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we focus on the Riemann problem for two‐layered blood flow model, which is represented by a system of quasi‐linear hyperbolic partial differential equations (PDEs) derived from the Euler equations by vertical averaging across each layer. We consider the Riemann problem with varying velocities and equal constant density through arteries. For instance, the flow layer close to the wall of vessel has a slower average speed than the layer far from the vessel because of the viscous effect of the blood vessel. We first establish the existence and uniqueness of the corresponding Riemann solution by a thorough investigation of the properties of elementary waves, namely, shock wave, rarefaction wave, and contact discontinuity wave. Further, we extensively analyze the elementary wave interaction between rarefaction wave and shock wave with contact discontinuity and rarefaction wave and shock wave. The global structure of the Riemann solutions after each wave interaction is explicitly constructed and graphically illustrated towards the end.
High‐performance two‐pole filter using self‐coupled resonators with frequency‐variant internal and external couplings
Authors: Narayane Vinay B. , Kumar Girish
Published: August 2023

In this article, a two‐pole filter with very high selectivity and second harmonic suppression is presented. The design is based on a novel configuration using self‐coupled half‐wave resonators with external frequency‐variant coupling (EFVC) structures. The self‐coupling allows placing two transmission zeros, produced by frequency‐variant interresonator coupling and the tapped feeds, close to the passband edges. The EFVC structure enables arbitrary positioning of these zeros without affecting in‐band performance. Thus, very high‐selectivity passbands can be realized. Additionally, the external coupling structures provide more zeros which are used to suppress spurious harmonics. The fabricated prototype second‐order filter at 2.35 GHz center frequency with 5.6% bandwidth shows a selectivity factor (ratio of 3‐ to 20‐dB bandwidths) of 0.535 and stopband up to 2.8 times the center frequency with minimum 20‐dB rejection.
A correction algorithm for improved magnetic field monitoring with distal field probes
Authors: Dubovan Paul I. , Gilbert Kyle M. , Baron Corey A.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

A significant source of artifacts in MRI are field fluctuations. Field monitoring is a new technology that allows measurement of field dynamics during a scan via “field probes,” which can be used to improve image reconstruction. Ideally, probes are located within the volume where gradients produce nominally linear field patterns. However, in some situations probes must be located far from isocenter where rapid field variation can arise, leading to erroneous field‐monitoring characterizations and images. This work aimed to develop an algorithm that improves the robustness of field dynamics in these situations.

Methods

The algorithm is split into three components. Component 1 calculates field dynamics one spatial order at a time, whereas the second implements a weighted least squares solution based on probe distance. Component 3 then calculates phase residuals and removes the residual phase for distant probes before recalculation. Two volunteers and a phantom were scanned on a 7T MRI using diffusion‐weighted sequences, and field monitoring was performed. Image reconstructions were informed with field dynamics calculated conventionally, and with the correction algorithm, after which in vivo images were compared qualitatively and phantom image error was quantitatively assessed.

Results

The algorithm was able to correct corrupted field dynamics, resulting in image‐quality improvements. Significant artifact reduction was observed when correcting higher‐order fits. Stepwise fitting provided the most correction benefit, which was marginally improved when adding the other correction strategies.

Conclusion

The proposed algorithm can mitigate effects of phase errors in field monitoring, providing improved characterization of field dynamics.
Learning ADC maps from accelerated radial k‐space diffusion‐weighted MRI in mice using a deep CNN‐transformer model
Authors: Li Yuemeng , Joaquim Miguel Romanello , Pickup Stephen , Song Hee Kwon , Zhou Rong , Fan Yong
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To accelerate radially sampled diffusion weighted spin‐echo (Rad‐DW‐SE) acquisition method for generating high quality ADC maps.

Methods

A deep learning method was developed to generate accurate ADC maps from accelerated DWI data acquired with the Rad‐DW‐SE method. The deep learning method integrates convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with vision transformers to generate high quality ADC maps from accelerated DWI data, regularized by a monoexponential ADC model fitting term. A model was trained on DWI data of 147 mice and evaluated on DWI data of 36 mice, with acceleration factors of 4× and 8× compared to the original acquisition parameters.

Results

Ablation studies and experimental results have demonstrated that the proposed deep learning model generates higher quality ADC maps from accelerated DWI data than alternative deep learning methods under comparison when their performance is quantified in whole images as well as in regions of interest, including tumors, kidneys, and muscles.

Conclusions

The deep learning method with integrated CNNs and transformers provides an effective means to accurately compute ADC maps from accelerated DWI data acquired with the Rad‐DW‐SE method.
Adiabatic null passage for on‐resonance magnetization transfer preparation
Authors: Abbasi‐Rad Shahrokh , Norris David G.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

We propose a novel RF pulse providing an adiabatic null passage (ANP) for magnetization transfer preparation with improved insensitivity to and B0 inhomogeneities and mitigated direct saturation and T2 effects.

Method

The phase modulation function of a 6‐ms time‐resampled frequency offset–corrected pulse was modified to achieve zero flip angle at the end of the pulse. The spectral response was simulated, and its insensitivity to B0 and was investigated and compared with a phase‐inverted (11‐2) binomial pulse. The proposed pulse was implemented in a 2D‐EPI pulse sequence to generate magnetization transfer (MT) contrast and MT ratio (MTR) maps. In vivo experiments were performed on 3 healthy participants with power‐matched settings for ANP and the binomial pulse with the following parameters: 6‐ms binomial pulse with a flip angle of 107° (shortest element) and pulse repetition period (PRP) of TRslice = 59 ms, three experiments with 6‐ms ANP and constant MT used overdrive factor (OF)/PRP values of 1/TRslice, /2TRslice, and /3TRslice.

Results

At gray matter (white matter) in vivo, the MTR decreased from 61% (64%) at OF = 1 to 38% (42%) applying ANP with an OF = and PRP = 3 TRslice, demonstrating the mitigation of T2/direct effect by 22% (22%). Bloch‐McConnell simulations gave similar values. In vivo experiments showed significant improvement in the MTR values for areas with high B0 inhomogeneity.

Conclusion

ANP pulse was shown to be advantageous over its binomial counterpart in providing MT contrast by mitigating the T2 effect and direct saturation of the liquid pool as well as reduced sensitivity to and B0 inhomogeneity.
Impact of nusinersen on the health‐related quality of life and caregiver burden of patients with spinal muscular atrophy with symptom onset after age 6 months
Authors: Lee Yun Jeong , Kim Ae Ryoung , Lee Jong‐Mok , Shim Young Kyu , Cho Jae So , Ryu Hye Won , Kwon Soonhak , Chae Jong‐Hee
Published: August 2023

Introduction/Aims

Novel disease‐modifying approaches for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) have highlighted the patient's perspective on functional changes over time. In this study, we evaluated the impact of nusinersen on the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients with later‐onset SMA and the caregiver burden.

Methods

We assessed the changes in HRQoL using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scale (PedsQL GCS) and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 3.0 Neuromuscular Module (PedsQL NMM) during 26 months of treatment. Caregiver burden was assessed using the Assessment of Caregiver Experience with Neuromuscular Disease. We also assessed motor function using the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale—Expanded (HFMSE) and the Revised Upper Limb Module score.

Results

Twenty‐four patients and their caregivers were included. The median age of patients at treatment onset was 148.8 (6.8 to 269.4) months. A significant improvement was observed in psychosocial health in proxy‐reported PedsQL (P = .023). However, the physical health scores of the PedsQL GCS and About my neuromuscular disorder subscores of the PedsQL NMM did not change, although there was a significant increase in HFMSE scores. Regarding the caregiver burden, the financial burden was reduced, whereas time burden increased. A higher HFMSE score was associated with better self‐reported PedsQL GCS total scores (P < .001).

Discussion

Our results provide insights into the multifaceted implications of disease‐modifying therapies for SMA through patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs). PROMs should be taken into consideration to assess the clinical significance of the functional changes identified by clinician‐reported scales.