bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a smart spectral analysis method for the determination of mulberry (Morus alba var. nigra L.) juice quality parameters using FT‐IR spectroscopy
Authors: Soltanikazemi Maryam , Abdanan Mehdizadeh Saman , Heydari Mokhtar , Faregh Seyed Mojtaba
Published: December 2022

Recently, the application of Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy as a noninvasive technique combined with chemometric methods has been widely noted for quality evaluation of agricultural products. Mulberry (Morus alba var. nigra L.) is a native fruit of Iran and there is limited information about its quality characteristics. The present study aims at assessing a nondestructive optical method for determining the internal quality of mulberry juice. To do so, first, FT‐IR spectra were acquired in the spectral range 1000–8333 nm. Then, the principal component analysis (PCA) was used to extract the principal components (PCs) which were given as inputs to three predictive models (support vector regression (SVR), partial least square (PLS), and artificial neural network (ANN)) to predict the internal parameters of the mulberry juice. The performance of predictive models showed that SVR got better results for the prediction of ascorbic acid (R2 = .84, RMSE = 0.29), acidity (R2 = .71, RMSE = 0.0004), phenol (R2 = .35, RMSE = 0.19), total anthocyanin (R2 = .93, RMSE = 5.85), and browning (R2 = .89, RMSE = 0.062) compared to PLS and ANN. However, the ANN predicted the parameters TSS (R2 = .98, RMSE = 0.003) and pH (R2 = .99, RMSE = 0.0009) better than the other two models. The results indicated that a good prediction performance was obtained using the FT‐IR technique along with SVR and this method could be easily adapted to detect the quality parameters of mulberry juice.
Modelling sediment trapping in vegetative filter strips on steep slopes
Authors: Wu Songbai , Chui Ting Fong May , Chen Li , Chow Chun Hon Christopher
Published: December 2022

The slope effects on sediment trapping process in vegetative filter strips (VFS) are usually neglected in current modelling practices for VFS operation, which hamper the VFS design and performance evaluation, especially on steep slopes. To fill the knowledge gap, 12 laboratory experiments of sediment trapping in VFS were conducted with three different inflow discharge (80, 100, and 120 ml s−1) and four slope angles (5,10, 15, and 20°). The experimental results show that, on steep slopes (10, 15, and 20°), a part of trapped sediment particles in VFS can be eroded again and then dragged to the downstream as bed load, whilst they do not move on gentle slope (5°). To describe the complex processes, a simple and effective modelling framework was developed for sloped VFS by coupling the slope infiltration, runoff, and modified sediment transport model. The model was tested against the experimental results and good agreements between the modelled and observed results were found in both runoff and sediment transport processes for all cases. On steep slopes, the sediment trapping performance of VFS decreases significantly because the erosion of deposited sediment particles can account for more than 60% of the sediment load in the outflow. The slope effect on sediment trapping efficiency of VFS varies greatly with soil, VFS, and slope properties. The model was compared with previous sediment transport equation and found that both methods can satisfactorily predict the sediment trapping of VFS on gentle slopes, but previous sediment transport equation is likely to overestimate the sediment trapping efficiency in VFS on steep slopes. This model is expected to provide a more realistic and accurate method for predicting runoff and sediment reduction in VFS on sloping surfaces.
Changes in bark properties and hydrology following prescribed fire in Pinus taeda and Quercus montana
Authors: Siegert Courtney , Ilek Anna , Wade Adam , Schweitzer Callie
Published: December 2022

In the eastern United States, the use of prescribed fire as a silvicultural technique to manage for desirable upland tree species is increasing in popularity. Bark physical properties such as thickness, density, and porosity have known associations with fire tolerance among species. These physical properties simultaneously influence rainfall interception and canopy storage and thus are of interest across a range of disciplines. Furthermore, while these characteristics are innate to a species, it is unknown whether repeated exposure to fire facilitates physical change in bark structure and whether these changes are consistent among species. To answer these questions, bark samples were collected from mature pine (Pinus taeda L.) and oak (Quercus montana Willd.) trees from sites across the Bankhead National Forest in Alabama, USA under three different burn regimes: 3‐year cycle, 9‐year cycle, and no fire. Samples were analysed in the laboratory for bulk density, porosity, water storage capacity, and hygroscopicity (the amount of atmospheric water vapour absorbed by bark during non‐rainfall conditions). Drying rates of saturated samples under simulated wetting conditions were also assessed. Oak bark had higher bulk density, lower porosity, and dried slower than pine bark. Interestingly, bark from both species had lower bulk density, higher porosity, greater water storage capacity, and dried faster in stands that were burned every 3 years compared to other fire regimes (p < 0.001). In summary, this study demonstrates that prescribed fire regimes in an eastern US forest alter bark structure and thus influence individual tree control on hydrological processes. The increase in bark water storage capacity, coupled with faster bark evaporation times may lead to less water inputs to the forest floor and drier overall conditions. Further investigation of this fire‐bark‐water feedback loop is necessary to understand the extent of these mechanisms controlling landscape‐scale conditions.
A rare case of massive hemorrhagic ascites secondary to endometriosis
Authors: Wang Huimin , Cai Bailian , Guo Xiaoqing , Lu Wen
Published: December 2022

Synopsis

This is a case of ascites secondary to endometriosis without atypical clinical symptoms, which is rare and prone to misdiagnosis.
Determinants of farmers' choice to use irrigation systems: The case of northern Ethiopia
Authors: Gebrekidan Berhe Girmay , Abbay Aradom Gebrekidan , Azadi Hossein , Viira Ants‐Hannes , Tanaskovik Vjekoslav , Janeska Stamenkovska Ivana , Nacka Marina , Scheffran Jürgen
Published: December 2022

Climate change is thought to be having a negative impact on Africa's agricultural industry. Smallholder farmers who depend heavily on agriculture are more severely affected by climate change. Droughts and the depletion of water resources are two examples of how climate change affects production. Therefore, it is necessary to take steps to reduce the negative effects of climate change in Ethiopia on smallholder farmers in particular and agriculture in general. Therefore, the purpose of this analysis was to identify the factors that affect the increase in irrigation efficiency among farmers in northern Ethiopia. A total of 194 farmers were picked at random and questioned using semi‐structured questionnaires. Out of the 18 explanatory variables hypothesized to analyse the preference of farmers for using irrigation in the study area, only 13 were considered important. Of these 13 significant explanatory variables, 4 including health status, labour force members, availability of labour and perception of the advantage of using agricultural inputs were statistically significant with farmers' choice of irrigation.
A novel lipid droplets‐targeting fluorescent probe based on dicyanisophorone and carbazole for Cu2+ and its application
Authors: Cui Yuanyuan , Meng Yaoyang , Hu Yun , Chen Yuqi , Yang Yixian , Fang Min , Li Cun , Zhu Weiju
Published: December 2022

A novel fluorescent probe, LCH, based on dicyanisophorone and carbazole, was prepared for the visual detection of Cu2+. The probe LCH could recognize Cu2+ by fluorescence quenching in EtOH/H2O (1/4, v/v) solution, which could be easily identified under the 365 nm UV lamp, and the detection limit was as low as 0.785 μM. The recognition mechanism of probe LCH with Cu2+ was determined by combining 1H NMR titration, MS, and theoretical calculations. Practical application experiments showed that probe LCH could be used to detect Cu2+ in the test strip experiments. Cell imaging experiments showed that the probe LCH owned good cell permeability and could be applied to the imaging of Cu2+ in HepG2 cells. In addition, fluorescence colocalization experiments showed that LCH could target lipid droplets. These results indicate that the probe LCH will have a good application prospect in environmental detection and clinical medicine.
A DFT‐based study of the hydrogen‐bonding interactions between epicatechin and methanol/water
Authors: Liu Qifan , Xiao Kelaiti , Abulimiti Bumaliya , Xiang Mei , Wang Danqi , An Han , Zheng Jingyan
Published: December 2022

Tea polyphenols are essential components that give tea its medicinal properties. Methanol and water are frequently used as solvents in the extraction of polyphenols. Hydrogen‐bonding interactions are significant in the extraction reaction. Density functional theory (DFT) techniques were used to conduct a theoretical investigation on the hydrogen‐bonding interactions between methanol or water and epicatechin, an abundant polyphenol found in tea. After first analyzing the epicatechin monomer's molecular geometry and charge characteristics, nine stable epicatechin (EC) H2O/CH2OH complex geometries were discovered. The presence of hydrogen bonding in these improved structures has been proven. The calculated hydrogen bond structures are very stable, among which the hydrogen bond bonded with a hydroxyl group has higher stability. The nine complex structures’ hydrogen bonds were thought to represent closed‐shell‐type interactions. The interaction energy with 30O‐31H on the epicatechin benzene ring is the strongest in the hydrogen bond structure. While the other hydrogen bonds were weak in strength and mostly had an electrostatic nature, the hydrogen bonds between the oxygen atoms in H2O or CH2OH and the hydrogen atoms of the hydroxyl groups in epicatechin were of moderate strength and had a covalent character. Comparing the changes in the hydrogen bond structure vibration peak, the main change in concentration peak is the hydrogen bond vibration peak in the complex. Improved the study on the hydrogen bond properties of CH2OH and H2O of EC.
High‐pressure infrared spectroscopy of ionic liquids mixed with Tween 80
Authors: Chang Hai‐Chou , Chien Han‐Hui , Huang Zhi‐Jie , Huang Zheng‐Yuan
Published: December 2022

In this study, the possibility of using Tween 80 to disturb the microstructures of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIM]BF4) and 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([BMIM]PF6) was investigated under high pressures. The imidazolioum CH absorptions of pure ionic liquids (ILs) are significantly blue‐shifted under high pressures. However, mild changes in imidazolioum CH stretching frequencies were observed for IL/Tween 80 mixtures. Tween 80 may hinder cations of ILs to form network structures with anions under high pressures via pressure‐enhanced cation‐Tween 80 interactions. Based on the experimental results, Tween 80‐[BMIM]PF6 interactions are more effective in disturbing the local structure of imidazolium CH than Tween 80‐[BMIM]BF4 interactions.
Hereditary coagulation factor VII deficiency caused by novel compound heterozygous mutations in a Chinese pedigree: A case report
Authors: Cai Ruimin , Li Yi , Xu Wei , Gao Xue , Feng Qiang
Published: December 2022

Background

Congenital coagulation factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare, autosomal‐recessive haemorrhagic disorder with an estimated incidence of 1:500,000. This disorder is caused by mutations in the F7 gene.

Case description

Here, we report a pedigree of congenital FVII deficiency. The proband was a 30‐year‐old female with severely low FVII activity and a history of menorrhagia and epistaxis since her childhood who was subsequently diagnosed with congenital compound heterozygous FVII deficiency. A genetic study revealed a novel combination of compound heterozygous mutations (c.64G 〉 A, p.Gly22Ser and c.1027G 〉 A, p.Gly343Ser). Her father and older son had the c.64G 〉 A, p.Gly22Ser (heterozygous) mutation. Her mother and younger son had the c.1027G 〉 A, p.Gly343Ser (heterozygous) mutation. The predicted results of PolyPhen‐2 and MutationTaster indicated that these mutations were probably damaging and disease‐causing, respectively.

Conclusion

In this study, we identified a novel combination of genetic mutations that could expand the mutant library and help in elucidating the pathogenesis of hereditary human coagulation FVII deficiency. A novel combination of compound heterozygous mutations was reported for the first time in Chinese individuals.
Utility of SCORE2 risk algorithm for predicting life course accelerated frailty and physical function decline
Authors: Li Chenglong , Ma Yanjun , Hua Rong , Zheng Fanfan , Xie Wuxiang
Published: December 2022

Background

Frailty is a dynamic process that increases with ageing, while it remains unclear whether cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk algorithm could predict life course dynamic frailty trajectories, for example, the longitudinal patterns of how frailty evolves with time. We intended to examine the predictive utility of the Systemic Coronary Risk Estimation 2 (SCORE2) algorithm for life course accelerated frailty and physical function decline, in comparison with the precedent SCORE algorithm.

Methods

Longitudinal data regarding accumulation of deficits frailty index (FI) and physical function (grip strength, gait speed, peak expiratory flow and timed chair rises) were drawn from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) and Health and Retirement Study (HRS), two nationally representative cohorts with community‐dwelling adults aged ≥50 years. SCORE and SCORE2 were calculated at baselines following European Society of Cardiology guidelines. A group‐based trajectory modelling approach was used for identifying potential life course frailty trajectories, based on 14‐ and 12‐year FI data in the ELSA and HRS. Modified Poisson regression and linear mixed model were applied for analysing associations between SCORE2 with accelerated frailty trajectory and physical function decline, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was conducted to evaluate predictive utility for accelerated frailty increase trajectory of SCORE and SCORE2, with the area under the curve (AUC) compared using the paired DeLong's test.

Results

A total of 4834 participants from the ELSA and 7815 participants from the HRS were included (mean age: 64.0 ± 9.2 and 65.4 ± 9.9 years; men: 44.3% and 41.4%, respectively). Three frailty trajectories were consistently identified in both cohorts: (1) stable frailty increase (n = 3026 in ELSA and 4004 in HRS); (2) moderate frailty increase (n = 1325 in ELSA and 2955 in HRS); (3) accelerated frailty increase (n = 483 in ELSA and 856 in HRS). Each 10% increment in SCORE2 risk was associated with the higher risk of accelerated frailty increase (risk ratio [RR]: 3.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] [3.22, 3.98], P < 0.001 in ELSA; RR: 1.61, 95% CI [1.56, 1.67], P < 0.001 in HRS) and faster declines in all physical function measurements. SCORE2 algorithm showed good accuracy for predicting accelerated frailty increase (area under the curve [AUC] in ELSA: 0.759; HRS: 0.744), with better performance than the SCORE (AUC in ELSA: 0.729; HRS: 0.700) in both cohorts (P < 0.001 for comparison).

Conclusions

SCORE2 algorithm could serve good utility for predicting life course accelerated frailty increase and physical function decline among community‐dwelling non‐frail adults aged ≥50 years.
Evaluation of drug release, monomer conversion and surface properties of resin composites containing chlorhexidine‐loaded mesoporous and nonporous hydroxyapatite nanocarriers
Authors: Demirbuğa Sezer , Dayan Serkan , Balkaya Hacer
Published: December 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate drug release, degree of conversion (DC), and surface properties of resin composites containing chlorhexidine (CHX)‐loaded mesoporous (mHAP) and nonporous hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanocarrier. CHX loaded mHAP and HAP, or CHX without nanocarrier was added into the resin composite in 1% and 5% concentrations. After characterization of experimental materials with XRD, EDX, FT‐IR, and SEM, the CHX release on the 1st, 7th, 30th, and 120th days were evaluated by UV–vis spectroscopy. DC, surface roughness, and surface hardness of the samples were also evaluated. The data was statistically analyzed. While mHAP groups released significantly higher CHX on the 30th day (p < .05), there was no statistically significant difference between the HAP and mHAP groups on the 120th day (p > .05). DCs of all groups were similar (p > .05). While mHAP and HAP groups containing 5% CHX showed significantly higher roughness than the other groups (p < .05), no statistically significant difference was observed between the other groups (p > .05). The 1% and 5% CHX groups without nanocarrier showed significantly lower surface hardness (p < .05). However, no statistically significant difference was observed between the other groups in terms of surface hardness (p > .05). A controlled CHX release was achieved by mHAP and HAP nanocarriers for 120 days. The nanocarrier addition up to 5% did not negatively affect the DC and the surface hardness which is one of the surface properties of the resin composites. Although the addition of 5% nanocarrier to the resin composite increased the surface roughness, while adding 1% of these nanocarriers did not change.
Recent research progress of heterocyclic nematicidal active compounds
Authors: Wang Yu , Luo Xin , Chen Yifang , Peng Ju , Yi Chongfen , Chen Jixiang
Published: December 2022

Plant‐parasitic nematodes cause huge economic losses of $ 157 billion to world agriculture annually. Long‐term use of traditional nematicides can lead to increased resistance of nematode and reduced control effectiveness. New effective and safe nematicides are needed to replace the organophosphorus and carbamate. Heterocyclic compounds play an important role in nematicide discovery. For example, the new nematicides fluenesulfone, fluopyram, cyclobutrifluram, tioxazafen, imicyafos, and fluazaindolizine have at least one heterocyclic ring in their structures. In view of the importance of heterocyclic structure in the development of nematicides, this paper reviews the research progress of nematicidal active compounds of heterocyclic in recent years, and discusses the structure–activity relationship (SAR) and mechanism of action. It is hoped that it can provide new inspiration for the development of new nematicides.
Chalcones: Versatile intermediates in heterocyclic synthesis
Authors: Nayak Yogeesha N. , Gaonkar Santosh L. , Sabu Mariya
Published: December 2022

Chalcones are a fascinating and well‐studied group of organic molecules. Synthesis of chalcones has been one of the essential areas of organic synthesis over the last few decades because of their immense therapeutic and excellent photophysical properties. Furthermore, these chalcone derivatives can be utilized to make a variety of heterocyclic compounds, especially five‐ and six‐membered heterocycles. Heterocyclic compounds have a long history in chemistry, primarily in pharmaceuticals. However, synthesizing some specific heterocyclic molecules remains challenging and requires multistep processes with few possible intermediates. Chalcones can be considered as one of the most useful, readily available intermediates in heterocyclic synthesis. Herein, the synthesis of various potential heterocyclic compounds using chalcones as an intermediate is elaborated. This review shows the untapped potential of chalcones in organic synthesis. Also, it will assist the chemist in designing new heterocycles by adopting these strategies.
Viruses responsible for acute respiratory infections before (2016–2019) and during (2021) circulation of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus in pediatric patients in a reference center at Barranquilla Colombia: A pattern analysis
Authors: Zarur‐Torralvo Shiara , Stand‐Niño Iván , Flórez‐García Victor , Mendoza Humberto , Viana‐Cárdenas Erika
Published: December 2022

Objective

To evaluate the behavior of the viruses responsible for acute respiratory infections before (2016–2019) and after (2020–2021) the start of the circulation of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus in pediatric patients treated at a reference center from Barranquilla, Colombia.

Materials and Methods

A descriptive observational study was carried out, and data were obtained by reviewing the influenza‐like illness and severe acute respiratory infection database in the pediatric population of the sentinel surveillance reference center in the district of Barranquilla during the years 2016–2021, applying inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

During 2016–2019, the average age of individuals was 1.3 (±1.7) years, during 2021, it was 2.3 (±3.5) years. The distribution by sex was similar, predominantly male. August and February were the months with the highest record of symptoms for 2016–2019 and 2021, respectively, the most frequent being cough, fever, shortness of breath, and diarrhea. By 2021 there was a higher use of antibiotics and antivirals reported than in 2016–2019. Most patients tested negative for viral detection. When comparing the percentage of viruses detected by age group and years of detection, positivity was lower in 2021 by every age group, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was the most frequently detected.

Conclusions

There was less virus positivity in viral detection tests in the pediatric population in 2021. RSV persists as the main etiology affecting this population, especially infants. The use of antibiotic therapy in viral infections continues to be a problematic practice in their management. Sentinel surveillance can be strengthened throughout the country.
Characterization of cross‐reactive monoclonal antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐1 and SARS‐CoV‐2: Implication for rational design and development of pan‐sarbecovirus vaccines and neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Li Shibo , Wu Jianbo , Jiang Weiyu , He Haiyan , Zhou Yunjiao , Wu Wei , Gao Yidan , Xie Minxiang , Xia Anqi , He Jiaying , Zhang Qianqian , Han Yuru , Wang Nan , Zhu Guangqi , Wang Qiujing , Zhang Zheen , Mayer Christian T. , Wang Kang , Wang Xiangxi , Wang Junqing , Chen Zhenguo , Jiang Shibo , Sun Lei , Xia Rong , Wang Qiao
Published: December 2022

Emergence of various circulating SARS‐CoV‐2 variants of concern (VOCs) promotes the identification of pan‐sarbecovirus vaccines and broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs). Here, to characterize monoclonal antibodies cross‐reactive against both SARS‐CoV‐1 and SARS‐CoV‐2 and to search the criterion for bNAbs against all emerging SARS‐CoV‐2, we isolated several SARS‐CoV‐1‐cross‐reactive monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) from a wildtype SARS‐CoV‐2 convalescent donor. These antibodies showed broad binding capacity and cross‐neutralizing potency against various SARS‐CoV‐2 VOCs, including B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), P.1 (Gamma), and B.1.617.2 (Delta), but failed to efficiently neutralize Omicron variant and its sublineages. Structural analysis revealed how Omicron sublineages, but not other VOCs, efficiently evade an antibody family cross‐reactive against SARS‐CoV‐1 through their escape mutations. Further evaluation of a series of SARS‐CoV‐1/2‐cross‐reactive bNAbs showed a negative correlation between the neutralizing activities against SARS‐CoV‐1 and SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant. Together, these results suggest the necessity of using cross‐neutralization against SARS‐CoV‐1 and SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron as criteria for rational design and development of potent pan‐sarbecovirus vaccines and bNAbs.
Lattice vibrational modes in changchengite from Raman spectroscopy and first principles electronic structure
Authors: Chatterjee B. , Vengust D. , Mrzel A. , Sutar P. , Goreshnik E. , Mravlje J. , Mertelj T.
Published: December 2022

We measured room‐temperature phonon Raman spectra of changchengite (IrBiS) and compared the experimental phonon wavenumbers to the theoretical ones obtained by means of the ab initio density‐functional‐theory calculations in the presence and absence of the spin‐orbit coupling effects. Combining two different excitation photon energies all the symmetry predicted Raman modes are experimentally observed. The electronic properties of IrBiS are found to be similar to the recently studied isostructural compound IrBiSe showing a large Dresselhaus spin‐orbit valence band splitting. A good agreement between the experimental and theoretically predicted Raman phonon wavenumbers is found only when the lattice parameter is constrained to the experimental value. The inclusion of the spin orbit coupling does not significantly affect the phonon wavenumbers.
Development of non‐destructive models to predict oil content and fatty acid composition of Gomenzer (Ethiopian mustard) using near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy
Authors: Tsegay Girmay , Ammare Yibrah , Tollassa Kassaye , Shiferaw Legesse
Published: December 2022

Background

‟Gomenzer” or Ethiopian mustard is the potential oilseed crop that is economically important. Ethiopian mustard and rapeseed quality breeding has focused on altering the fatty acid contents of seed oil to create novel genotypes with different oil characteristics. The goal of this research was to establish calibration equations' using a method called near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy with modified partial least squares (MPLS) regression.

Result

The spectra of 180 mustard samples were collected and their oil and fatty acid compositions were determined by n‐hexane extraction and GC–MS methods respectively. With 130 samples, calibration equations were developed for oil and fatty acid compositions. All developed equation had an acceptable value of R 2c, RPDc, and also had suitable 1‐VR values. Prediction of an external validation with 50 datasets revealed a blameless correlation between reference values and NIRS values based on the R 2v in prediction, SEP, and the ratio of SD to SEP (RPDv) for oil, oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and erucic acids. These had suitable values of RPDv and R 2v, with the range of 2.0 to 8.8 and 0.79 to 0.99 respectively.

Conclusion

The developed models gave meaningful quantitative data, however, the equations generated for palmitic, stearic, and eicosenoic acids were insufficient for data analysis. Hence, the developed NIRS model, which was satisfactory, could be used to assess and evaluate the oil and fatty acid content for the unknown mustard samples on a regular basis in the oilseed breeding quality program.
Effects of microwave and conventional heating on physicochemical, digestive, and structural properties of debranched quinoa starch‐oleic acid complexes with different water addition
Authors: Li Jing , Wang Mengting , Liu Guangxin , Wang Wei , Hu Aijun , Zheng Jie
Published: December 2022

Background

A starch‐lipid complex is a new type of resistant starch, which is of great importance for the prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes. Most starch‐lipid complexes usually need to be treated by heating to make them suitable for a variety of applications, and starch‐based foods are generally not edible without a heat‐treatment process. However, the digestion and structural properties of the starch‐lipid complex will be changed after heating. In this study, microwave and conventional heating were used to treat debranched quinoa starch‐oleic acid complexes (DQS‐OA) with different water addition conditions, and the effects of the two methods on the physicochemical, digestive, and structural properties of DQS‐OA were compared.

Results

The results of in vitro digestibility showed that the resistant starch content (235.34–269.55 g kg−1) of the conventional heating‐treated samples was significantly higher than that the microwave‐treated samples (141.51–157.99 g kg−1). Moreover, after microwave treatment, the short‐range molecular order and crystalline structure of DQS‐OA were destroyed and the particle size became smaller. In contrast, the thermal stability, enthalpy, and crystallinity of the complexes after conventional heating were improved. The ratio at 1047/1022 cm−1 of complexes has also been increased.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that conventional water‐bath heating was better than microwave heating in increasing digestion resistance, improving the short‐range and long‐range molecular order, and promoting the formation of DQS‐OA. With an increase in water addition, the influence of microwave or water‐bath treatment on the properties of DQS‐OA became greater. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Baseline ultrasound and FDG‐PET/CT imaging in Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Zijlker Lisanne P. , Bakker Max , van der Hiel Bernies , Bruining Annemarie , Klop W. Martin C. , Zuur Charlotte L. , Wouters Michel W. J. M. , van Akkooi Alexander C. J.
Published: December 2022

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous tumor with a high tendency to metastasize, and a significant proportion of patients have metastases at first presentation. This study aims to determine the value of baseline ultrasound (US) and 18fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18FDG‐PET/CT) imaging in both patients with clinically localized MCC (Stage I/II) and patients who present with palpable lymph nodes (Stage III).

Methods

This retrospective cohort included 135 MCC patients who underwent baseline US (with fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC)) and/or FDG‐PET/CT imaging between 2015 and 2021.

Results

Of the 104 patients with clinically localized disease, 48% were upstaged to Stage III and 3% to Stage IV by imaging or sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). FDG‐PET/CT imaging identified regional metastases in 23%, while US with FNAC identified regional metastases in 19%. SLNB was performed in 56 patients, of whom 57% were upstaged to Stage III. Of the 31 patients who presented with palpable lymph nodes, 16% were upstaged to Stage IV by FDG‐PET/CT imaging.

Conclusion

Baseline imaging frequently upstages Stage I/II MCC patients to Stage III, both by US and FDG‐PET/CT, Stage IV disease is rarely identified. Patients who present with palpable nodes are frequently upstaged to Stage IV by FDG‐PET/CT imaging.
Molecular dynamics study of corrosion behavior of iron with vacancies exposed to lead‐bismuth eutectic
Authors: Chen Li‐Ming , Xu Shuai , He Xiao‐Xun , Cao Qi‐Long , Li Bing‐Sheng
Published: December 2022

The corrosion behavior of iron with vacancies in a liquid lead‐bismuth eutectic environment is simulated by molecular dynamics with embedded‐atom model potential at 700–1073 K. The vacancy is substituted into Fe crystal with the percentage of 0%, 0.2%, 0.4%, 1.0%, and 2.0% to investigate the effect of the vacancy on the corrosion behavior of iron. By evaluating the time‐dependences of penetration depths and the number of penetrating Pb and Bi atoms and also observing the trajectory of a penetrating Bi atom, we concluded that temperature and vacancy will enhance the corrosion behavior of iron in liquid lead‐bismuth, and the corrosivity of Bi atom is larger than that of Pb atom. The result is supported by the calculated substitutional energies of each Pb or Bi atom with a Fe atom or vacancy, which are in the order of . If there are vacancies in the iron bulk, the Bi atom and Pb atom will preferentially penetrate the bulk through the vacancies, and the Bi atom has another way to penetrate into the bulk by substituting the Fe atom layer by layer. The present study provides new insight into challenges related to the corrosion behavior of iron‐based materials with vacancy‐type defects.
Laughing in the face of embarrassment: Humorous marketing messages, excitement, and embarrassing products in retail
Authors: Barney Christian , Jones Carol L. Esmark
Published: December 2022

Humorous messages can influence consumers differently based on the type of product and context; this research seeks to determine how humorous versus informative messages differentially impact consumer's responses to embarrassing products versus nonembarrassing products in retail. This paper proposes that humorous messaging may be used to counteract negative responses to embarrassing products as opposed to much of the research on consumer embarrassment which focuses on coping mechanisms and reducing the noticeability of a product in retail settings. Specifically, marketers may use benign humor to increase excitement and ultimately increase purchase likelihood of a product. The researchers examine the process through which consumers view humorous marketing of embarrassing products. Three studies, including a behavioral lab experiment utilizing a 360° video choice experiment as well as a Facebook ads behavioral experiment, are used to assess the proposed relationship. The findings indicate that for embarrassing products, humorous messaging is more effective than informative messaging at increasing purchase likelihood due to an increase in excitement. These results hold across a variety of marketing mediums. This research suggests that practitioners should use humorous marketing communications rather than informative marketing communications for embarrassing products in retail.
Fluency and the perceived ethicality of corporate social (ir)responsibility
Authors: Grolleau Gilles , Mzoughi Naoufel , Wright Scott
Published: December 2022

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has remained a focus in business and society for decades. Existing research, however, has only begun to examine moral violations, or incidences of corporate social irresponsibility (CSI). In this article, we identify perceptual fluency—the ease with which information is processed—as an influential factor. Through three experiments, we reveal that individuals view incidences of CSI as less unethical when perceptual fluency is low (vs. high). This occurs because decreased perceptual fluency encourages deliberative processing, which impacts the perceived ethicality of CSI incidences. These results replicate across different countries, product categories, and CSI typologies. We also identify the type of corporate action as an important boundary condition; as perceptual fluency did not impact the perceived ethicality of analogous CSR incidences. We also find that the effect is influenced by the individual moral philosophy of the consumer, with the effect occurring only for those higher in moral relativism. Overall, these results empirically disentangle competing theoretical accounts linking perceptual fluency with moral judgment, and show that businesses and other parties should consider the fluency of CSI communications along with the moral philosophy of their customers and other stakeholders.
A hybrid multi‐criteria decision‐making approach to evaluate interrelationships and impacts of supply chain performance factors on pharmaceutical industry
Authors: Khan Sharfuddin Ahmed , Gupta Himanshu , Gunasekaran Angappa , Mubarik Muhammad Shujaat , Lawal Jennifer
Published: December 2022

Pharmaceutical Supply Chain (PSC) plays a critical role in the healthcare sector. This study identifies, validates, and prioritises the factors that play a crucial role in PSC performance, adopting a threefold approach. In the first stage performance, indicators were identified through an extensive review of the literature. With the help of expert opinion, the identified factors were validated and then categorised based on technological—organisational—environmental (TOE) and supply chain (SC) theories to propose a framework. The Pakistani Pharmaceutical sector firms were selected to investigate the cause and effect relationship among the factors, their interdependencies, and impact on overall PSC performance. This investigation was supported by a novel integrated analytic model composed of best worst method (BWM), decision‐making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), and analytical network process (ANP) methods. The results indicate that ‘human resource skills, competencies, and involvement’, ‘process improvement and healthcare reform, and manufacturing’, and ‘distribution and inventory management’ are the top three factors that have a high impact on the overall PSC performance. This study outcome help inform decision‐makers and managers in the healthcare sector in formulating strategies to improve their SC performance.
Detection and alterations of acetylcarnitine (AC) in human liver by 1H MRS at 3T after supplementation with l‐carnitine
Authors: Savic Dragana , Mózes Ferenc E. , Green Peregrine G. , Burrage Matthew K. , Kjær Mette Skalshøi , Hodson Leanne , Neubauer Stefan , Pavlides Michael , Valkovič Ladislav
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Acetylcarnitine can be assessed in vivo using proton MRS (1H‐MRS) with long TEs and this has been previously applied successfully in muscle. The aim of this study was to evaluate a 1H‐MRS technique for liver acetylcarnitine quantification in healthy humans before and after l‐carnitine supplementation.

Method

Baseline acetylcarnitine levels were quantified using a STEAM sequence with prolonged TE in 15 healthy adults. Using STEAM with four different TEs was evaluated in phantoms. To assess reproducibility of the measurements, five of the participants had repeated 1H‐MRS without receiving l‐carnitine supplementation. To determine if liver acetylcarnitine could be changed after l‐carnitine supplementation, acetylcarnitine was quantified 2 h after intravenous l‐carnitine supplementation (50 mg/kg body weight) in the other 10 participants. Hepatic lipids were also quantified from the 1H‐MRS spectra.

Results

There was good separation between the acetylcarnitine and fat in the phantoms using TE = 100 ms. Hepatic acetylcarnitine levels were reproducible (coefficient of reproducibility = 0.049%) and there was a significant (p < 0.001) increase in the relative abundance after a single supplementation of l‐carnitine. Hepatic allylic, methyl, and methylene peaks were not altered by l‐carnitine supplementation in healthy volunteers.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that our 1H‐MRS technique could be used to measure acetylcarnitine in the liver and detect changes following intravenous supplementation in healthy adults despite the presence of lipids. Our techniques should be explored further in the study of fatty liver disease, where acetylcarnitine is suggested to be altered due to hepatic inflexibilities.
Correlation between health literacy and health‐related quality of life in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: The mediating role of self‐management
Authors: Gao Yuqi , Yan Keshu , Yan Xiangru , Xi Na , Gao Jia , Ren Hengjie
Published: December 2022

Aim

The aims of the study were to analyse the current situation of health literacy (HL), self‐management and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), to explore the correlation between the three and to verify the mediating role of self‐management in HL and HRQOL.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The convenience sampling method was used to select 401 DPN patients attending the First Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University in Liaoning Province, China, from December 2020 to December 2021 as the study population. The research instrument included socio‐demographic characteristics questionnaire, Health Literacy Management Scale (HeLMS), Summary of Diabetes Self‐Care Activities (SDSCA) and Short‐Form 12‐item Health Survey (SF‐12). SPSS 25.0 was applied to the data for descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation analysis and stratified multiple regression analysis. Mediating effects were tested using SPSS PROCESS macro 4.0 software.

Results

HL and self‐management of DPN patients correlated positively with HRQOL. The mediation role of self‐management was significant in the relationship between HL and physical and mental HRQOL (physical component summary: β = 0.26, P < 0.01; mental component summary: β = 0.18, P < 0.01), with mediating effects accounting for 35.62% and 34.62% of the total effect.

Conclusions

There was a positive correlation between HL, self‐management and HRQOL in patients with DPN. Self‐management plays a partially mediating role in the relationship between HL and HRQOL in DPN patients. It means that HRQOL in this population can be improved by increasing HL and thus self‐management in DPN patients.

Patient or Public Contribution

None.
Recurrence risk assessment for stage III colorectal cancer based on five methylation biomarkers in plasma cell‐free DNA
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhu Xiaohui , Zhang Xuecong , Lei Chengyong , Zeng Zhicheng , Lan Xiaoliang , Cui Wenzhi , Wang Feifei , Xu Shaowan , Zhou Juan , Wu Xuehui , Deng Haijun , Li Xia , Fan Jianbing , Ding Yanqing , Huang Zhongxi , Liang Li
Published: December 2022

For stage III colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with a high risk of recurrence, intensified adjuvant chemotherapy can improve overall survival. We aimed to develop a circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) methylation marker model for predicting the relapse risk of stage III CRC patients. Differentially methylated markers identified between 53 normal mucosa samples and 165 CRC tissue samples, as well as between plasma samples from 75 stage I/II (early‐stage) CRC patients and 55 stage IV (late‐stage) CRC patients, were analyzed using Student's t‐tests. The overlapping methylation markers shared by plasma and tissue samples were used to establish a methylation marker model to evaluate the tumor burden in the peripheral blood of CRC patients using the random forest method. This model was verified in the validation cohort (n = 44) and then applied to predict recurrence risk in 50 stage III CRC patients and monitor the clinical disease course in serial samples from four CRC patients. We built a five‐marker‐based ctDNA methylation model that had high sensitivity (84.21%) and specificity (84%) in identifying late‐stage CRC in a validation cohort containing 24 stage I/II CRC patients and 20 stage IV CRC patients. The model achieved high sensitivity (87.5%) and specificity (94.12%) in predicting tumor relapse in an independent cohort of 50 stage III CRC patients and could be an independent recurrence risk factor for stage III patients [Hazard ratio (HR), 60.4; 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.68–397; p = 9.73e−5]. Analysis of serial blood samples of CRC showed that the model could monitor disease relapse earlier than imaging examination and serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and so may provide an opportunity for the early adjustment of therapeutic strategies. Moreover, the model could potentially monitor the clinical course and treatment response dynamically. © 2022 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
v‐SYMPHONY career development series: A collaboration to enhance professional awareness for pediatric hematology oncology trainees
Authors: Tal Adit L. , Bailey Kayleen A. , Chou Alexander , Offer Katharine , Rosenblum Jeremy , Moerdler Scott , Askew Megan , Roberts Stephen , Vagrecha Anshul , Orsey Andrea , Robbins Gabriel , Satwani Prakash , Pierro Joanna , Levine Jennifer
Published: December 2022

Background

A recent survey of pediatric hematology oncology (PHO) physicians identified that a majority believe fellows are struggling to find jobs that align with their goals. Career development for trainees has historically been home institution‐specific, limiting fellows’ exposures to career path possibilities. The “virtual‐Symposium of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology of New York (v‐SYMPHONY)” instituted a tristate Career Development Series for PHO trainees to better address their needs and increase awareness of the variety of PHO career opportunities.

Procedure

The v‐SYMPHONY Career Development Series incorporated three sessions: (a) institutional perspective, (b) individual perspectives, and (c) nuts and bolts of job search. Pre‐ and post‐series surveys were administered to participants to measure impact.

Results

Forty‐one fellows registered for the series and completed a pre‐survey. Over half (54%) were in their third or later year of fellowship. Careers with a clinical focus were the most commonly desired career path (59%). Most had received career development advice only from faculty within their institutions (90%). Post‐surveys were completed by 11 PHO fellows. Overall, 100% of respondents reported benefiting from the career sessions and recommended the series should be repeated annually. Over 90% learned new information to prepare for the job search.

Conclusions

The v‐SYMPHONY Career Development Series for PHO fellows across multiple institutions was established and was extremely well received by its participants. PHO fellows agreed that these sessions were beneficial in helping prepare them for the job search process. An annual regional Career Development Series is feasible and is strongly suggested to support PHO fellows.
Multi‐institution analysis of tumor mutational burden and outcomes in pediatric central nervous system tumor patients
Authors: Parisi Rose , Patel Roshal R. , Rood Gavrielle , Bowden Acacia , Turco George , Korones David N. , Andolina Jeffrey R. , Comito Melanie , Barth Matthew , Weintraub Lauren
Published: December 2022

Background

Pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the leading cause of pediatric cancer mortality. Research addressing genomic biomarkers and clinical outcomes is needed to inform therapeutic decision‐making.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of pediatric patients (age <21) diagnosed with a primary CNS tumor at four upstate New York hospitals from 2008 to 2021. Clinical and histopathologic data were identified from each patient, including genomic analysis of somatic mutations and tumor mutational burden (TMB) where available. These variables were each compared with overall survival using Cox regression analyses. Multivariable analysis was conducted to identify patient characteristics that may independently predict survival.

Results

We identified 119 patients. Common tumor types included low‐grade glioma (N = 51), high‐grade glioma (N = 29), and medulloblastoma (N = 11). Common driver mutations included TP53 inactivation (N = 16), BRAF–KIAA1549 fusion (N = 16), FGFR1 amplification (N = 12), BRAF V600E mutation (N = 12), NF1 loss (N = 12), and H3F3A K28M mutation (N = 6). Median TMB was one mutation/megabase (mut/Mb, range = 0–132). Overall survival was 79.9%. Variables associated with poorer survival on univariable analysis were higher TMB (p = .002, HR 4.97), high‐grade tumors (p = .009, HR 84.3), and high‐grade glioma histology (p = .021, HR 3.14). Multivariable analyses further identified TMB (p = .011, HR 4.46) and high‐grade histology (p = .015, HR 5.28) as independently predictive of worse survival. Tumor progression was more common in high‐TMB (N = 15, 44%) than in low‐TMB tumors (N = 19, 35%).

Conclusions

High TMB is correlated with higher rates of progression and death as compared to low‐TMB tumors. These findings may help identify patients who may benefit from alternative treatments, such as immunotherapies.