bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of corporate social responsibility on employee commitment and corporate reputation: Evidence from a transitional economy
Authors: Ramayah Thurasamy , Falahat Mohammad , Soto‐Acosta Pedro
Published: May 2022

Some may argue that corporate social responsibility (CSR) leads companies to shift from a profit‐maximising objective to a more social one, while others argue that CSR enhances value and profitability by attracting, motivating and retaining personnel which, in return, improve customer relations and boost company reputation. The benefits from CSR may be interlinked, if not mutually reinforcing. This paper intends to empirically explore the impact of CSR practices on corporate reputation by analysing the mediation effect of employee commitment in that relationship. A total of 406 questionnaires were collected from 169 corporations in Malaysia. The proposed research model and its associated hypotheses were tested by using partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modelling (SEM). Results revealed that CSR has a positive effect on organisational reputation and that employee commitment mediates the relationship between CSR activities and corporate reputation. The main conclusions of this study can be valuable to organisations that intend to explore or exploit opportunities regarding the implementation of CSR.
In vivo glia‐to‐neuron conversion: pitfalls and solutions
Authors: Wang Lei‐Lei , Zhang Chun‐Li
Published: May 2022

Neuron loss and disruption of neural circuits are associated with many neurological conditions. A key question is how to rebuild neural circuits for functional improvements. In vivo glia‐to‐neuron (GtN) conversion emerges as a potential solution for regeneration‐based therapeutics. This approach takes advantage of the regenerative ability of resident glial cells to produce new neurons through cell fate reprogramming. Significant progress has been made over the years in this emerging field. However, inappropriate analysis often leads to misleading conclusions that create confusion and hype. In this perspective, we point out the most salient pitfalls associated with some recent studies and provide solutions to prevent them in the future. The goal is to foster healthy development of this promising field and lay a solid cellular foundation for future regeneration‐based medicine.
Dithiocyanation of Alkynes with N‐Thiocyanato‐dibenzenesulfonimide and Ammonium Thiocyanate
Authors: Duan Yongjie , Liang Kun , Yin Hongquan , Chen Fu‐Xue
Published: May 2022

Organic thiocyanates widely exist in natural products, and act as important precursors for organic synthesis. An efficient dithiocyanation of alkynes with N‐thiocyanato‐dibenzenesulfonimide (NTSI) as the SCN+ cation and ammonium thiocyanate as the SCN‐ anion sources has been developed. Highly active electrophilic reagent NTSI could react with various types of alkynes to build C(sp2)−SCN bond to provide a variety of dithiocyanato olefin compounds under simple and mild conditions. Trace amount of water is beneficial to the dissociation of ammonium thiocyanate, which makes the SCN‐ anion easier to participate in the reaction. The protocol owns a broad substrates scope including terminal and internal, alkyl and aryl alkynes, excellent functional group tolerance and good regioselectivity.
Temporal properties of pain contrast enhancement using repetitive stimulation
Authors: Szikszay Tibor M. , Adamczyk Waclaw M. , Lévénez Juliette L. M. , Gouverneur Philip , Luedtke Kerstin
Published: May 2022

Background

Offset analgesia (OA) is characterized by a disproportionately large reduction in pain following a small decrease in noxious stimulation and is based on temporal pain contrast enhancement (TPCE). The underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon are still poorly understood. This study is aiming to investigate whether TPCE can also be induced by repetitive stimulation, i.e., by stimuli clearly separated in time.

Methods

A repetitive TPCE paradigm was induced in healthy, pain‐free subjects (n = 33) using heat stimuli. Three different interstimulus intervals (ISIs) were used: 5, 15, and 25 s. All paradigms were contrasted with a control paradigm without temperature change. Participants continuously rated perceived pain intensity. In addition, electrodermal activity (EDA) was recorded as a surrogate measure of autonomic arousal.

Results

Temporal pain contrast enhancement was confirmed for ISI 5 s (p < 0.001) and ISI 15 s (p = 0.005) but not for ISI 25 s (p = 0.07), however, the magnitude of TPCE did not differ between ISIs (p = 0.11). A TPCE‐like effect was also detected with increased EDA values.

Conclusions

TPCE can be induced by repetitive stimulation. This finding may be explained by a combination of the mechanisms underlying the OA and a facilitated pain habituation.

Significance

This experiment shows for the first time that temporal contrast enhancement of pain can be elicited by stimuli that are clearly separated in time with an interstimulus interval below 25 s.
Voltammetric study of new psychoactive substance 3‐fluorophenmetrazine
Authors: Jiroušková Eliška , Čabala Radomír , Sokolová Romana
Published: May 2022

Electrochemical oxidation of the new psychoactive substance 3‐fluorophenmetrazine (FPM) was studied in phosphate buffers by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) on a glassy carbon electrode. The redox potential of FPM in buffered solution strongly depends on pH. Cyclic voltammetry behavior shows the partial influence of adsorption on the electrode process not allowing detailed analysis of the individual steps of the reaction scheme, it means the involvement of electron transfer (E) and chemical reaction (C). Nevertheless, the irreversible shape of the cyclic voltammogram is explained by the participation of hydroxylation nucleophilic addition of water (hydroxylation) after two‐electron/two‐proton oxidation of molecule at the tetrahydro‐1,4‐oxazine ring. The suggested mechanism leading to hydroxylated derivative 2‐(3‐fluorophenyl)‐3‐methyl‐5‐hydroxymorfolin is supported by the calculated highest occupied molecular orbital spatial distribution and atomic charges calculations for electrochemically formed radical cation. Infrared spectroelectrochemistry performed during oxidation in acetonitrile/water also supported the formation of this product.

The analytical method of FPM determination on glassy carbon electrode was developed using DPV with an attained limit of detection = 4.7 μmol/L in phosphate buffer of pH 9. The linear range of the calibration curve is from 7.0 to 107.00 μmol/L, correlation coefficient (r) = 0.9988.
Effective Separation of Cancer‐Derived Exosomes in Biological Samples for Liquid Biopsy: Classic Strategies and Innovative Development
Authors: Xie Yujiao , Xu Xiawei , Lin Jie , Xu Yanping , Wang Jing , Ren Yong , Wu Aiguo
Published: May 2022

Liquid biopsy has remarkably facilitated clinical diagnosis and surveillance of cancer via employing a non‐invasive way to detect cancer‐derived components, such as circulating tumor DNA and circulating tumor cells from biological fluid samples. The cancer‐derived exosomes, which are nano‐sized vesicles secreted by cancer cells have been investigated in liquid biopsy as their important roles in intracellular communication and disease development have been revealed. Given the challenges posed by the complicated humoral microenvironment, which contains a variety of different cells and macromolecular substances in addition to the exosomes, it has attracted a large amount of attention to effectively isolate exosomes from collected samples. In this review, the authors aim to analyze classic strategies for separation of cancer‐derived exosomes, giving an extensive discussion of advantages and limitations of these methods. Furthermore, the innovative multi‐strategy methods to realize efficient isolation of cancer‐derived exosomes in practical applications are also presented. Additionally, the possible development trends of exosome separation in to the future is discussed in this review.
An integrated evaluation approach on dry hole analysis: A case study of Ballat anticline, Naccowlah Block, Eromanga Basin, Queensland, Australia
Authors: Khan Haris Ahmed , Naqvi Syed Danial Mehdi , Abbas Ayesha , Khan Muhammad Jahangir , Faisal Muhammad , Gabol Muhammad Fahad
Published: May 2022

This study is based on an integrated investigation of seismic, well log, geological and geochemical data, the detailed analysis of source, reservoir, and structures were conducted in the Naccowlah Block, Eromanga Basin, Queensland, Australia. The Naccowlah Block is one of the most important hydrocarbons producing areas centered in Eromanga Basin, with several producing wells, except Ballat‐01 and Chilla‐01. This study pertains specifically to the Ballat structure, which was declared dry. The purpose of this research is to evaluate and identify specific ‘Dry Hole’ failure, based on analysis of several factors: reservoir deliverability, source maturity, migration, and structural presence. 3D seismic data revealed NE–SW trending series of reverse faulting mainly conquered by four‐way dip closure due to compressional tectonics in the study area. The burial history and event chart depict the preservation and maturation of potential source rock, which is furthermore affirmed by the vitrinite reflectance curve. Interpreted regional migration model and structural analysis of Naccowlah Block stated the presence of a suitable structure for hydrocarbon generation and migration pathways. Despite all favourable aspects for the accumulation of hydrocarbon in Hutton sandstone, the structural restoration analysis proves the absence of trap at the time of migration and accumulation. However, geophysical, geological, and geochemical shreds of evidence suggest that the spatial distribution of the events provides valuable guidance for the development of the area.
Petrology and geochemistry of the Palaeo‐Mesoarchean Banded Iron formations (BIFs) from the central Bundelkhand greenstone belts, Bundelkhand Craton, India: Source characteristics and depositional environment
Authors: Malviya Vivek P. , Arima Makoto , Verma Sanjeet K. , K. Pati Jayanta , Shareef Mohamed , L. Dora Muduru , K. Singh Vinod , Prakash Satya , Shukla Mayank
Published: May 2022

Palaeo‐Mesoarchean Banded Iron formations (BIFs) of central Bundelkhand greenstone belts occur from Babina (in the west) to Mahoba (in the east) via Mauranipur along with the E–W trending of the Bundelkhand Tectonic Zone (BTZ). In the present study, we report petrological, geochemical, and mineralogical data of BIFs from the Babina, Mauranipur, and Mahoba greenstone belts of central Bundelkhand Greenstone Complex to address their source characteristics and deposition environment. The lithological association of BIFs in the Babina and Mauranipur greenstone belts consists of pillowed basic–ultrabasic volcanics and metasediments, whereas in the Mahoba greenstone belt, BIFs and quartzite occur within basic volcanics. These lithological associations collectively suggest that the entire succession was deposited in a marine environment. Based on geological setting, they are classified as Algoma‐type. The main mineral assemblages of the Babina and Mauranipur BIFs are composed of magnetite, quartz, ±garnet, hornblende, chlorite, and apatite, whereas the Mahoba BIFs along with magnetite and quartz, poised of two distinct mineral assemblages; the first one is Opx–Cpx–Grt and the other one is Grt–Hbl. The preliminary P–T study of these BIFs implies that they had gone through amphibolite‐ to granulite‐facies metamorphism. The geochemical characteristics show that BIFs from the Babina and Mauranipur greenstone belts are dominated by higher quartz and magnetite (total content = 90.63–99.95 wt.%), whereas the Mahoba greenstone belt is characterized by lesser quartz and magnetite components (total content = 86.68–94.58 wt.%). The PAAS (Post Archean Average of Australian Sediments)‐normalized REE patterns display significant positive Eu anomaly (Eu/Eu* up to 2.50) with well‐represented negative Ce anomalies (Ce/Ce* = 0.27–1.20). The REE and trace element ratios of BIFs from the Babina and Mauranipur greenstone belts suggest that they were formed by high‐T hydrothermal fluid activity without or very less continental input. Moreover, the Mahoba greenstone belt BIFs are formed by low‐T hydrothermal fluid activity with substantial continental input. Their chemical variation suggests the shallowing of the proto‐basin from the Babina in the west to Mahoba in the east. Tectonic discrimination plots imply the BIFs of the Babina, Mauranipur, and Mahoba greenstone belts of the central Bundelkhand Greenstone Complex are formed in a back‐arc tectonic setting.
Influence of nonlinear thermal radiation on mixed convective hybrid nanofluid flow about a rotating sphere
Authors: Patil Prabhugouda M. , Doddagoudar Shivanandappa H. , Shankar Hadapad F.
Published: May 2022

The present study investigates the mixed convective hybrid nanofluid flow over a rotating sphere under the impact of nonlinear thermal radiation. A model is built to examine the heat transport performance of ferrimagnetic magnetite and copper nanoparticles over a rotating sphere. Nonsimilar transformations are used to nondimensionalize the coupled nonlinear governing equations and the flow model's boundary conditions. Furthermore, the nondimensional governing equations were solved using implicit finite difference approximation and the quasilinearization technique. The impacts of the flow regime on many controlling parameters are then thoroughly addressed. Temperature patterns improve when nonlinear thermal radiation and hybrid nanofluid values increase. The fluid velocity and skin friction coefficient increase in the streamwise direction while decreasing in the rotating direction. The separation of the boundary layer is delayed as the sphere's rotation weakens. The stationary sphere has a larger boundary layer separation than the revolving sphere. The velocity distribution improves with increasing rotation parameter values while decreasing with increasing combined convection parameter values in the rotating direction. An increase in the temperature ratio parameter makes the fluid get hotter, and the Nusselt number goes down simultaneously. Nusselt number and skin friction coefficient in the rotation direction increase, while skin friction coefficient in streamwise direction reduces for increasing values of hybrid nanofluid. The velocity of the fluid enhances in the stream‐wise direction while reducing in the rotational direction with the increasing values of the combined convection parameter.
Evaluating the waste management situation and attitudes of residents in Bandung, Indonesia
Authors: Marešová Denisa , Mareš Kryštof , Alexiou-Ivanova Tatiana , Satyakti Yayan , Pilařová Tereza
Published: May 2022

The increasing amount of waste is becoming a crucial topic in developing countries, causing health-related and environmental issues. In past decades, the Indonesian government implemented regulations dedicated to municipal solid waste management (MSWM); unfortunately, these have not been well communicated to the public. The set tax level is inadequate for the MSWM financial needs in Bandung, Indonesia. Previous studies determined the public interest in MSWM as the critical factor of sustainable MSWM. However, this aspect is not well considered. This study investigated public perception and involvement in MSWM in Bandung. These investigations were conducted through two leading indicators: public interest in MSWM in environmental issues and willingness of inhabitants to pay for sufficient MSWM services. Using a binary probit model, it was found that age, educational level, locality, and satisfaction with MSWM practices play a significant role in the respondents' interest in MSWM, which is crucial to the public perception of MSWM. The results also demonstrate that more than 97% of respondents are not satisfied with MSWM practices, and more than 83% of respondents consider MSWM services insufficient. Awareness of essential operations such as waste handling and recycling is at a low level. On the other hand, more than 67% of respondents are interested in MSWM in connection with environmental issues and are familiar with the 3R concept (reducing waste, reusing, and recycling resources and products). Our MSWM research provides new perspectives on the public perception and involvement in Bandung that could be considered in the planning and implementation of sustainable MSWM. The results indicate that the public's perception and approach to MSWM in Bandung city should be enhanced by better education, providing sufficient awareness, and offering workshops.  Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:114–125. © 2022 SETAC
Regionalized chemical footprint method to identify aquatic ecotoxicity hotspots of hard disk drive rare-earth magnets
Authors: Frost Kali , Hua Inez
Published: May 2022

The chemical footprint (ChF), which combines life cycle assessment (LCA) and quantitative risk assessment principles, shows promise for exploring localized toxicity impacts of manufacturing processes, which is not achievable with LCA alone. An updated ChF method was applied to the global annual production of a hard disk drive (HDD) rare-earth element (REE) magnet assembly, assuming a supply chain in East and Southeast Asia. Existing REE magnet assembly LCA inventories were combined with supplier manufacturing locations to create a cradle-to-gate spatial unit process inventory. Emissions from the electricity grid for each manufacturing site were downscaled to hydrobasins of interest using the Global Power Plant Database. The predicted no effect concentration (PNEC) was chosen as the ecotoxicity pollution boundary to determine the threshold for dilution of each chemical of concern (CoC) and to calculate the ChF. Finally, a high-resolution hydrological database provided volumes of the freshwater river reach draining each hydrobasin and was used to calculate the dilution capacity (DC), that is, the volume required to remain at or below the PNEC for each CoC. The total ChF of annual REE magnet assembly production was 6.91E12 m3, with hotspots in watersheds in China and Thailand where REEs are processed and steel metalworking takes place. Metals were the primary CoCs, with cadmium and chromium(VI) comprising 77% of total ChF. Dilution factors ranged from 5E−09 to 9E + 03 of the DC of the waterbody, reflecting the spatial variability in both emissions and DC. An advanced ChF method was demonstrated for HDD REE magnets. Scoping is a key step required to reduce model complexity. The use of regionalized fate factors and standardized hydrological data sets improves the comparability of ChFs across hydrobasins. Additional work to combine data sets into readily available tools is needed to increase usability and standardization of the ChF method and promote wider adoption. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:272–283. © 2022 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
Refractory nocturnal enuresis associated with bulbar urethral stricture successfully treated by non‐transecting urethroplasty
Authors: Matsuo Yuki , Kanematsu Akihiro , Yamamoto Shingo
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Urethral obstruction has been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of nocturnal enuresis, but such patients have been treated only endoscopically. We report a case in which nocturnal enuresis was successfully treated by an urethroplasty.

Case presentation

A 13‐year‐old boy was referred to our hospital for nocturnal enuresis, which was refractory to desmopressin acetate, anticholinergic drugs, and alarm therapy. Video urodynamic study findings showed bladder outlet obstruction associated with a short bulbar stricture. Two attempts to relieve the obstruction by direct vision internal urethrotomy improved enuresis, albeit transiently. A non‐transecting urethroplasty was performed at the age of 15 years, which resulted in dramatic and durable improvements in enuresis, maximal flow rate in uroflowmetry, as well as other urodynamic parameters.

Conclusion

Urethroplasty, preferably by a non‐transecting technique, can be a viable treatment option for intractable nocturnal enuresis associated with non‐traumatic and short bulbar urethral stricture upon completion of puberty.
Suppressing intermolecular interactions for enhancing the performance of exciplex‐based OLEDs
Authors: Hu Yuan‐Cheng , Chen Li‐Ming , Lin Zong‐Liang , Lee Jhih‐Wei , Wei Wei‐Chih , Ko Tzu‐Yu , Lo Chun‐Yuan , Hung Wen‐Yi , Wong Ken‐Tsung
Published: May 2022

In this study, a new triazatruxene‐based donor Tr‐iBu bearing branched alkyl groups is reported to suppress the aggregation found in a previously reported methyl‐substituted counterpart Tr‐Me. The effects of a steric factor on the propensity of exciplex formation were examined by respectively mixing these triazatruxene‐based donors with PO‐T2T and two new acceptors PO‐T2P and PO‐Pyr, all bearing phosphine oxide as the peripheral groups and N‐heteroarene cores with different numbers of nitrogen. Based on the steric hindrance of side groups and their corresponding molecular orbitals alignments of donors and acceptors, the characteristics of exciplex‐forming systems were analyzed. Among them, the exciplex‐forming blends Tr‐iBu:PO‐T2P and Tr‐iBu:PO‐Pyr were selected to serve as the emitting layer (EML) to achieve OLED devices with a moderate maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 8.27 and 7.54%, respectively. Adopting the Förster resonance energy transfer strategy, the exciplex cohost was doped with a fluorescence emitter, DPy2CN, to realize a deep‐red OLED device with the emission peak centered at 674 nm while retaining EQEmax of 6.28%. Our results highlight the importance of suppressing the donor aggregation, adequate donor: acceptor combination, and a suitable triplet state of composing the materials for giving efficient exciplex‐based OLEDs.
Cell adhesion and immune response, two main functions altered in the transcriptome of seasonally regressed testes of two mammalian species
Authors: Real Francisca M. , Lao‐Pérez Miguel , Burgos Miguel , Mundlos Stefan , Lupiáñez Darío G. , Jiménez Rafael , Barrionuevo Francisco J.
Published: May 2022

In species with seasonal breeding, male specimens undergo substantial testicular regression during the nonbreeding period of the year. However, the molecular mechanisms that control this biological process are largely unknown. Here, we report a transcriptomic analysis on the Iberian mole, Talpa occidentalis, in which the desquamation of live, nonapoptotic germ cells is the major cellular event responsible for testis regression. By comparing testes at different reproductive states (active, regressing, and inactive), we demonstrate that the molecular pathways controlling the cell adhesion function in the seminiferous epithelium, such as the MAPK, ERK, and TGF‐β signaling, are altered during the regression process. In addition, inactive testes display a global upregulation of genes associated with immune response, indicating a selective loss of the “immune privilege” that normally operates in sexually active testes. Interspecies comparative analyses using analogous data from the Mediterranean pine vole, a rodent species where testis regression is controlled by halting meiosis entry, revealed a common gene expression signature in the regressed testes of these two evolutionary distant species. Our study advances in the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms associated to gonadal seasonal breeding, highlighting the existence of a conserved transcriptional program of testis involution across mammalian clades.
Transcriptional profiles define drug refractory disease in myeloma
Authors: Zhu Yuan Xiao , Bruins Laura A. , Chen Xianfeng , Shi Chang‐Xin , Bonolo De Campos Cecilia , Meurice Nathalie , Wang Xuewei , Ahmann Greg J. , Ramsower Colleen A. , Braggio Esteban , Rimsza Lisa M. , Stewart A. Keith
Published: May 2022

Identifying biomarkers associated with disease progression and drug resistance are important for personalized care. We investigated the expression of 121 curated genes, related to immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and proteasome inhibitors (PIs) responsiveness. We analyzed 28 human multiple myeloma (MM) cell lines with known drug sensitivities and 130 primary MM patient samples collected at different disease stages, including newly diagnosed (ND), on therapy (OT), and relapsed and refractory (RR, collected within 12 months before the patients’ death) timepoints. Our findings led to the identification of a subset of genes linked to clinical drug resistance, poor survival, and disease progression following combination treatment containing IMIDs and/or PIs. Finally, we built a seven‐gene model (MM‐IMiD and PI sensitivity‐7 genes [IP‐7]) using digital gene expression profiling data that significantly separates ND patients from IMiD‐ and PI‐refractory RR patients. Using this model, we retrospectively analyzed RNA sequcencing (RNAseq) data from the Mulltiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) CoMMpass (n = 578) and Mayo Clinic MM patient registry (n = 487) to divide patients into probabilities of responder and nonresponder, which subsequently correlated with overall survival, disease stage, and number of prior treatments. Our findings suggest that this model may be useful in predicting acquired resistance to treatments containing IMiDs and/or PIs.
Implementation of a comprehensive hospitalist‐led initiative to improve care for patients with opioid use disorder
Authors: Clifton Dana , Ivey Noel , Poley Stephanie , O'Regan Amy , Raman Sudha R. , Frascino Nicole , Hamilton Shavone , Setji Noppon
Published: May 2022

Background

As opioid‐related hospitalizations rise, hospitals must be prepared to evaluate and treat patients with opioid use disorder (OUD). We implemented a hospitalist‐led program, Project Caring for patients with Opioid Misuse through Evidence‐based Treatment (COMET) to address gaps in care for hospitalized patients with OUD.

Objective

Implement evidence‐based treatment for inpatients with OUD and refer to postdischarge care.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Project COMET launched in July 2019 at Duke University Hospital (DUH), an academic medical center in Durham, NC.

Intervention, Main Outcomes, and Measures

We engaged key stakeholders, performed a needs assessment, and secured health system funding. We developed protocols to standardize OUD treatment and employed a social worker to facilitate postdischarge care. Electronic health records were utilized for data analysis.

Results

COMET evaluated 512 patients for OUD during their index hospitalization from July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2021. Seventy‐one percent of patients received medication for OUD (MOUD) during admission. Of those who received buprenorphine during admission, 64% received a discharge prescription. Of those who received methadone during admission, 83% of eligible patients were connected to a methadone clinic. Among all patients at DUH with OUD, MOUD use during hospitalization and at discharge increased in the post‐COMET period compared to the pre‐COMET period (p < .001 for both).

Conclusion

Our program is one of the first to demonstrate successful implementation of a hospitalist‐led, comprehensive approach to caring for hospitalized patients with OUD and can serve as an example to other institutions seeking to implement life‐saving, evidence‐based treatment in this population.
M101, a therapeutic oxygen carrier derived fromArenicola marina, decreasedPorphyromonas gingivalis‐induced hypoxia and improved periodontal healing
Authors: Batool Fareeha , Petit Catherine , Stutz Céline , Özçelik Hayriye , Gegout Pierre‐Yves , Benkirane‐Jessel Nadia , Delpy Eric , Zal Franck , Leize‐Zal Elisabeth , Huck Olivier
Published: May 2022

Background

Porphyromonas gingivalisexacerbates tissue hypoxia and worsens periodontal inflammation. This study investigated the effect of a therapeutic oxygen carrier (M101), derived fromArenicola marina, on hypoxia and associated inflammation in the context of periodontitis.

Methods

The effect of M101 on GLUT‐1, GLUT‐3, HIF‐1α, and MMP‐9 expression, hypoxia, and antioxidant status in oral epithelial cells (EC) exposed to CoCl2(1000 μM),P. gingivalis(MOI 100), and CoCl2+P. gingivaliswas evaluated through hypoxia detection fluorescence assay, antioxidant concentration colorimetric assay, and RTqPCR. Evaluation of M101 on EC proliferation was evaluated in an in vitro wound assay. In experimental periodontitis, periodontal wound healing and osteoclastic activity were compared among natural wound healing, placebo, and gels containing M101 (1  and 2 g/L) groups through histomorphometry and TRAP (tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase activity assay) assay respectively. The expression of HIF‐1α, MMP‐9, and NFκB in periodontal tissues was also evaluated through immunofluorescence studies.

Results

M101 downregulated GLUT‐1, GLUT‐3, HIF‐1α, and MMP‐9 levels in EC exposed to CoCl2,P. gingivalis, and CoCl2+P. gingivalis(p < 0.05). Fluorescence and colorimetric analyses confirmed hypoxia reduction and antioxidant capacity improvement in such EC upon M101 treatment. Moreover, M101 improved significantly the in vitro wound closure. In vivo, the attachment level was significantly improved, and osteoclastic activity was reduced in mice treated with M101 gels compared to placebo and natural wound healing groups (p < 0.05). HIF‐1α, MMP‐9, and NFκB expression in periodontal tissues was reduced in M101 gels treated mice compared to the controls.

Conclusion

M101 showed promise in resolving hypoxia and associated inflammation‐mediated tissue degradation. Its potential in the clinical management of periodontitis must be further investigated.
Infection timing affects Fusarium poae colonization of bread wheat spikes and mycotoxin accumulation in the grain
Authors: Tini Francesco , Covarelli Lorenzo , Cowger Christina , Sulyok Michael , Benincasa Paolo , Beccari Giovanni
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Fusarium poae is one of the most common Fusarium head blight (FHB) causal agents in wheat. This species can biosynthesize a wide range of mycotoxins, in particular nivalenol (NIV). In FHB epidemiology, infection timing is important for disease occurrence, kernel development, symptom appearance and mycotoxin accumulation in grain. The present study explored, both in a controlled environment and in a 2‐year field plot experiment in Central Italy, the influence of five infection timings (from beginning of flowering to medium milk growth stage) on F. poae colonization and mycotoxin accumulation in bread wheat spikes (spring cv. A416 and winter cv. Ambrogio).

RESULTS

Both climate chamber and field experiments showed that early infection timings (from beginning of flowering to full flowering) especially favoured F. poae colonization and accumulation of its mycotoxins (particularly NIV) in grain. By contrast, later infection timings (watery ripe and medium milk) reduced F. poae development and mycotoxin levels. The time window of host susceptibility in the field was shorter than that observed under controlled conditions. Symptom expression in kernels also differed among infection timings. In general, F. poae biomass was higher in the chaff than in the grain.

CONCLUSION

These results enhance knowledge of a common member of the FHB complex worldwide, and could be useful in forecasting the risk of F. poae infection and mycotoxin contamination. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
High‐Frequency Ultrasonography Evaluation of Acne by Thickness and Power Doppler Vascular Analysis
Authors: Wu Xuanyin , Jiang Tian'an
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To assess acne vulgaris quantitatively using high‐frequency ultrasonography (HF‐USG) and power Doppler (PD), and investigate the feasibility and application value of HF‐USG and PD in acne vulgaris.

Methods

A total of 105 patients with the diagnosis of acne vulgaris in the face referred by a dermatologist were studied prospectively. All the acne patients enrolled were clinically classified by two attending dermatologists independently using three degrees with four levels of classification evaluating only the severest lesion. Gray‐scale ultrasound was used to assess the thickness of the lesion, and the thickness ratio was calculated. PD equipped with Qpack semi‐quantitative analysis software was used to assess blood signals of the lesion, and Qpack ratio, Qpack peak were calculated. Ten level‐4 acne patients were re‐evaluated after 2 weeks' treatment, and the results were compared with those before treatment.

Results

A total of 105 patients were categorized into four groups by dermatologists, 23 cases were comedones, 33 were papules, 26 were pustules, and 23 were nodules/cysts. There were significant differences in thickness ratio (P < .001), Qpack ratio (P < .001), and Qpack peak (P < .001) among the four groups. For the 10 level‐4 acne patients treated 2 weeks by the dermatologist, the difference in thickness ratio between pre‐treatment and post‐treatment showed no significance (P = .06). However, Qpack ratio and Qpack peak were significantly decreased between pre‐treatment and post‐treatment (both P = .01).

Conclusions

HF‐USG and PD equipped with semi‐quantitative analysis software can assess acne vulgaris quantitatively, which provides a good basis for the classification and treatment of acne. Their features include thickness ratio, Qpack ratio, and Qpack peak, with Qpack ratio and Qpack peak being the sensitive features for the early efficacy evaluation.
Candidacy for Cochlear implantation: Validating a novel Cochlear implant candidacy calculator against gold‐standard, in‐clinic audiometric assessments
Authors: So Raymond J. , Padova Dominic , Bowditch Stephen , Agrawal Yuri
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Cochlear implants (CI) are reliable implantable devices that are highly cost‐effective in reducing the burden of hearing loss at an individual and societal scale. However, only 10% of CI candidates are aware of their candidacy and receive a CI. A web‐based screening tool to assess CI candidacy may make many more individuals aware of their candidacy for cochlear implantation. The objective of this study was to validate and optimize the online Cochlear Implant Candidacy Calculator against in‐clinic audiometric testing.

Methods

Audiogram data and word discrimination scores for 132 patients who underwent initial CI consultation at the Johns Hopkins Cochlear Implant Center in 2020 were inputted into the calculator. Candidacy results from the calculator were compared against formal clinical diagnoses provided by the audiologist at the time of visit. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) and Area Under the Curve (AUC) analyses were performed to identify optimal diagnostic thresholds.

Results

Of the resulting 132 patients, 54 presented with single‐sided deafness (SSD), and 114 were clinically determined to be CI candidates. ROC AUC analyses identified optimal thresholds of high‐frequency PTA ≥65 dB and word discrimination score ≤ 50%. To maximize sensitivity at the expense of specificity, diagnostic thresholds of high‐frequency PTA ≥ 65 dB and word discrimination score ≤ 70% were chosen, which yielded accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and ROC AUC of 0.90, 0.94, 0.82, and 0.88, respectively.

Conclusion

The novel online CI Candidacy Calculator exhibits high sensitivity and accuracy, and moderate specificity. The calculator may thereby be useful in increasing awareness of potential CI candidacy, increasing prevalence of CIs, and decreasing the burden of hearing loss.
Existence results for convection‐reaction fractional problem involving the distributional Riesz derivative
Authors: Slimani Kamel , Saadi Chaima , Lakhal Hakim
Published: May 2022

The main goal of this manuscript is to study the existence results in the Bessel Potential space for the following convection‐reaction fractional problem involving by distributional Riesz fractional derivative,

where
is a bounded open set with a Lipschitz boundary,
and
. To reach our goal, we use the application of the Schauder fixed point theory with some assumption on the nonlinear terms
and
.
Stability of the nonconstant stationary solution to the damped Poisson–Nernst–Planck–Euler equations
Authors: Shen Rong , Wang Yong
Published: May 2022

We study the stability of the stationary solution to the three‐dimensional damped Poisson–Nernst–Planck–Euler equations. We show that the stationary system has and only has a semitrivial solution under a general nonconstant doping profile. Under small initial data, we prove the existence and uniqueness of the global strong solution to the nonstationary system. We also obtain the optimal convergence rate of the
norm of the solution toward the semitrivial stationary solution as time tends to infinity.
Optical waveguide‐based photon concentrator for hybrid photovoltaic cells
Authors: Iqbal Muddassir , Youqiao Ma , Ullah Sibghat , Min Lai , Zhao Delin , Maeda Hiroshi
Published: May 2022

Solar energy is pollution‐free with less impact on the ecosystem, but it has limitations due to its intermittent nature attributed to sun availability for specific hours, resulting in less energy conservation efficiency. Similar to the purpose of carvings on the leaves to collect water, we are presenting a nanometer‐thick layer of silicon or chalcogenide with fused silica for photons enhancement in red and the blue portion of the spectrum within the solar energy reaching the earth's surface. The design is based on nanorod imprints on micrometer‐sized conventional fused silica, ensuring better absorption and transportation toward hybrid photovoltaic cells. Hybrid solar cells (comprising silicon and perovskites) are typically termed the future of solar power, but will not be discussed here. Effective area, optical power concentration, and second‐ and higher‐order dispersions can further help design and develop the photon concentrators.
OAB supraspinal control network, transition with age, and effect of treatment: A systematic review
Authors: Bou Kheir George , Verbakel Irina , Hervé François , Bauters Wouter , Abou Karam Anthony , Holm‐Larsen Tove , Van Laecke Erik , Everaert Karel
Published: May 2022

Objective

In light of a better understanding of supraspinal control of nonneurogenic overactive bladder (OAB), the prevalence of which increases with age, functional imaging has gained significant momentum. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review on the transition of supraspinal control of OAB with age, the effect of therapeutic modalities, and a coordinate‐based meta‐analysis of all neuroimaging evidence on supraspinal OAB control in response to bladder filling.

Methodology

We performed a systematic literature search of all relevant libraries in November 2021. The coordinates of brain activity were extracted from eligible neuroimaging studies to perform an activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 16 studies out of 241 were selected for our systematic review. Coordinates were extracted from five experiments involving 70 patients. ALE meta‐analysis showed activation of the insula, supplementary motor area, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate gyrus, and temporal gyrus with a transition of activation patterns with age, using a threshold of uncorrected p < 0.001. Among young patients, neuroplasticity allows the activation of accessory circuits to maintain continence, as in the cerebellum and temporoparietal lobes. Anticholinergics, pelvic floor muscle training, sacral neuromodulation, and hypnotherapy are correlated with supraspinal changes attributed to adaptability and possibly a substratum of an intrinsic supraspinal component. The latter is better demonstrated by a resting‐state functional connectivity analysis, a promising tool to phenotype OAB with recent successful models of predicting severity and response to behavioral treatments.

Conclusion

Future neuroimaging studies are necessary to better define an OAB neurosignature to allocate patients to successful treatments.
Identification of elongation factor‐2 as a novel regulator of mitochondrial fission
Authors: Kim Jinhwan , Li Yanfeng , Cheng Yan , Ren Xingcong , Zhang Yi , Ji Cheng , Zhu Hua , Takahashi Yoshinori , Xiong Xingdong , Gu Lixiang , Ngule Chrispus , Xiong Xiaofang , Song Jianxun , Liu Xiaoqi , Yang Jin‐Ming
Published: May 2022

Mitochondria continuously undergo morphologically dynamic processes of fusion and fission to maintain their size, shape, amount, and function; yet the precise molecular mechanisms by which mitochondrial dynamics is regulated remain to be fully elucidated. Here, we report a previous unappreciated but critical role of eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2) in regulating mitochondrial fission. eEF2, a G‐protein superfamily member encoded by EEF2 gene in humans, has long been appreciated as a promoter of the GTP‐dependent translocation of the ribosome during protein synthesis. We found unexpectedly in several types of cells that eEF2 was not only present in the cytosol but also in the mitochondria. Furthermore, we showed that mitochondrial length was significantly increased when the cells were subjected to silencing of eEF2 expression, suggesting a promotive role for eEF2 in the mitochondrial fission. Inversely, overexpression of eEF2 decreased mitochondrial length, suggesting an increase of mitochondrial fission. Inhibition of mitochondrial fission caused by eEF2 depletion was accompanied by alterations of cellular metabolism, as evidenced by a reduction of oxygen consumption and an increase of oxidative stress in the mitochondria. We further demonstrated that eEF2 and Drp1, a key driver of mitochondrial fission, colocalized at the mitochondria, as evidenced by microscopic observation, coimmunoprecipitation, and GST pulldown assay. Deletion of the GTP‐binding motif of eEF2 decreased its association with Drp1 and abrogated its effect on mitochondria fission. Moreover, we showed that wild‐type eEF2 stimulated GTPase activity of Drp1, whereas deletion of the GTP‐binding site of eEF2 diminished its stimulatory effect on GTPase activity. This work not only reveals a previously unrecognized function of eEF2 (i.e., promoting mitochondrial fission), but also uncovers the interaction of eEF2 with Drp1 as a novel regulatory mechanism of the mitochondrial dynamics. Therefore, eEF2 warrants further exploration for its potential as a therapeutic target for the mitochondria‐related diseases.

Key Points

We demonstrate that eEF‐2 localizes in the mitochondria, in addition to its presence in the cytosol.

This study identifies eEF‐2 as a novel regulator of mitochondrial fission.

This work uncovers the interaction of eEF‐2 with Drp1 and its effect on GTPase activity as a new mechanism that regulates mitochondrial dynamics.
Systematic literature review on entrepreneurial orientation in nonprofit organizations – Far more than business‐like behavior
Authors: Stock Dorothea Maria , Erpf Philipp
Published: May 2022

While entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in nonprofit organizations (NPOs) is often considered as another business‐like behavior, the present systematic literature review changes this perspective by revealing that the construct refers to several specific third sector organizations' qualities and leverages financial and mission goals simultaneously. EO as a strategic posture of organizations is already well established in management and strategy literature whereas corresponding insights in NPOs are indeed expanded, but fragmented. To develop this research stream, a systematic literature review was conducted, that analyses the results of 76 studies about EO in NPOs. Besides describing current findings, this paper generates a comprehensive overview of applied constructs, drivers influencing EO, and goals promoted by this strategic posture. The context‐specific modification of the construct leads to the presumption that EO does not predominantly target business‐like initiatives, but holds a lot of potential meeting NPO's core challenges, such as the fulfillment of various stakeholders' expectations or diverse resources acquisition. The discussion elaborates to what extent EO serves as a viable alternative to highly discussed third sector developments of business approximation.
Dose–response association between long‐term weight loss in young adults and later‐life metabolic health
Authors: Wang Xiuling , Lu Jiapeng , Gao Yan , Song Jiali , Li Yan , Hundei Wuhanbilige , Han Yi , Li Xi , Liu Jiamin , Zheng Xin
Published: May 2022

Objective

Long‐term weight loss (LTWL) has been shown to be associated with lower metabolic risk in young adults with overweight/obesity. However, the dose–response association is uncertain.

Methods

In a large‐scale nationwide screening project in China, the participants aged 35 to 64 years who recalled overweight/obesity at age 25 years and experienced LTWL or maintained stable weight were included. The dose–response association between LTWL from age 25 to screening (35 to 64 years) and the odds of metabolic syndrome at screening were assessed using multivariable adjusted regression models with restricted cubic splines.

Results

A total of 40,150 participants (66.4% women) were included. The increment of LTWL was associated with continuously decreased odds of metabolic syndrome. The odds of metabolic syndrome were 0.64 (0.60 to 0.67), 0.42 (0.40 to 0.45), 0.27 (0.25 to 0.29), and 0.15 (0.13 to 0.17) for those with LTWL of 5% to 9.9%, 10% to 14.9%, 15% to 19.9%, and 20% or greater compared with <5% LTWL, respectively. Moreover, the incremental pattern was observed across all population subgroups.

Conclusions

An incremental association between LTWL from young adulthood and odds of later‐life metabolic syndrome was observed. Our findings highlight the effective ways to achieve LTWL to improve lifetime metabolic health for young adults with overweight/obesity.
Analysis and optimal control measures of diseases in cassava population
Authors: Onah Ifeanyi Sunday , Aniaku Stephen Ekwueme , Ezugorie Obiageri Maryjoy
Published: May 2022

Cassava amongst other crops is ranked currently as the third most essential source of carbohydrate in the tropics and a major food source in Africa. In spite of these gains, cassava production is highly threatened by pathogen‐causing diseases. In this study, a deterministic compartmental model is developed to investigate the effect of these diseases on cassava production. The local and global stabilities of the disease free and endemic equilibrium states of the model without control are analyzed. The model is extended to incorporate control techniques necessary in eradicating cassava diseases. Optimal control theory is applied on the control model to explore the impact of the introduction of resistant cassava plant, the use of all other traditional practices and the application of pesticides in the prevention and eradication of diseases in cassava production. Numerical simulation of the models are carried out and results obtained indicates that introduction of control measures should be done largely at the onset of cassava planting by introducing resistant cassava stems to reduce the spread of the disease and also maintain minimum cost for production and thereby maximize profit from its yield. The cost effectiveness analysis agreed with our earlier analysis and shows that the best and effective control is the use of resistant cassava stem together with the IPM approach.