bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metal‐Free and NBS‐Mediated Direct Thiol‐Disulfide Exchange Reaction to Access Unsymmetrical Disulfides
Authors: Yang Ke , Hu Qingyue , Li Qin , Liu Junxiang , Li Zheng‐Yi , Li Bijin , Sun Xiaoqiang
Published: June 2023

A metal‐free and N‐Bromosuccinimide (NBS)‐mediated direct thiol‐disulfide exchange reaction at room temperature is developed. A variety of unsymmetrical disulfides have been prepared with good to excellent yields. Efficient late‐stage modification of amino acids and drugs demonstrates the utility of this strategy. In addition, easy to operate, broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance further demonstrate that this reaction provides an essential complementary route to access unsymmetrical disulfides.
Bipolar electrochemical deposition of HKUST‐1 on carbon and its loading with polypyrrole for supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Patterson Nigel , Ignaszak Anna
Published: June 2023

Using bipolar electrochemistry, carbon paper (CP) is asymmetrically coated with copper metal. Subsequent anodic electrodissolution in a solution containing trimesic acid linkers results in HKUST‐1 depositing on the carbon surface. The CP‐MOF (metal organic framework) composite is then soaked in a pyrrole/isopropanol solution for several hours before undergoing oxygen/Cu‐induced polymerization to fill the pores. Variations in the concentration and soaking time were investigated. X‐ray diffraction shows the successful synthesis of HKUST‐1 before and after pyrrole treatment. Scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy suggest that the polymer is formed within HKUST‐1 rather than as a coating. Further characterization by Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, gas adsorption, and thermogravimetric analysis/differential thermal analysis were also carried out. Capacitance was found to increase with the concentration of pyrrole used to load HKUST‐1. Higher concentrations also lead to more leaching of copper. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), galvanostatic charge discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy electrochemically studied the redox peaks, capacitance retention, and resistivity of the electrodes.
AOP Report: Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activation Leads to Early–Life Stage Mortality via Sox9 Repression-Induced Craniofacial and Cardiac Malformations
Authors: Shankar Prarthana , Villeneuve Daniel L.
Published: June 2023

The aryl hydrocarbon receptors (Ahrs) are evolutionarily conserved ligand-dependent transcription factors that are activated by structurally diverse endogenous compounds as well as environmental chemicals such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. Activation of the Ahr leads to several transcriptional changes that can cause developmental toxicity resulting in mortality. Evidence was assembled and evaluated for two novel adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) which describe how Ahr activation (molecular initiating event) can lead to early–life stage mortality (adverse outcome), via either SOX9-mediated craniofacial malformations (AOP 455) or cardiovascular toxicity (AOP 456). Using a key event relationship (KER)-by-KER approach, we collected evidence using both a narrative search and a systematic review based on detailed search terms. Weight of evidence for each KER was assessed to inform overall confidence of the AOPs. The AOPs link to previous descriptions of Ahr activation and connect them to two novel key events (KEs), increase in slincR expression, a newly characterized long noncoding RNA with regulatory functions, and suppression of SOX9, a critical transcription factor implicated in chondrogenesis and cardiac development. In general, confidence levels for KERs ranged between medium and strong, with few inconsistencies, as well as several opportunities for future research identified. While the majority of KEs have only been demonstrated in zebrafish with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin as an Ahr activator, evidence suggests that the two AOPs likely apply to most vertebrates and many Ahr-activating chemicals. Addition of the AOPs into the AOP-Wiki (https://aopwiki.org/) helps expand the growing Ahr-related AOP network to 19 individual AOPs, of which six are endorsed or in progress and the remaining 13 relatively underdeveloped. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2063–2077. © 2023 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Uptake of Pharmaceuticals by Crops: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Sleight Harriet , Boxall Alistair B. A. , Toet Sylvia
Published: June 2023

Studies on the uptake of pharmaceuticals from soils into crops were first conducted in the 2000s. Since then a wealth of such data has been generated, but to the best of our knowledge, these studies have not been systematically reviewed. We present a quantitative, systematic review of empirical data on the uptake of pharmaceuticals into crops. We developed a custom-made relational database on plant uptake of pharmaceuticals that contained details of the experimental design and associated results from 150 articles, spanning 173 pharmaceuticals, 78 study crops, and 8048 unique measurements. Analysis of the data in the database showed clear trends in experimental design, with lettuce being the most studied crop and carbamazepine and sulfamethoxazole being the most studied pharmaceuticals. Pharmaceutical properties were found to create the greatest range in uptake concentrations of any single variable studied. Uptake concentrations were also found to vary between crops, with relatively high uptake concentrations identified in cress, lettuce, rice, and courgette crops. An understanding of the influence of soil properties on pharmaceutical uptake was limited by a lack of information on key soil properties across the published literature. The data comparisons were inhibited by differences in quality of the different studies. Moving forward, a framework for best practice in this field is needed to maximize the value and further applications of the data produced. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2091–2104. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Analysis of Selenium in Fish Tissue: An Interlaboratory Study on Weight Constraints
Authors: Ashby Liz J. , Mill Kate E. C. , Arnold Mariah C. , Van Geest Jordana L. , de Bruyn Adrian M. H.
Published: June 2023

Environmental monitoring programs that target fish tissues for selenium (Se) analysis present unique sampling and analytical challenges. Selenium monitoring programs ideally focus on egg/ovary sampling but frequently sample multiple tissues with varying lipid content, often target small-bodied fish species because of their small home ranges, and require reporting in units of dry weight. In addition, there is a growing impetus for nonlethal tissue sampling in fish monitoring. As a result, Se monitoring programs often generate low-weight tissue samples of varying lipid content, which challenges analytical laboratories to quantify tissue Se concentrations accurately, precisely, and at desired detection limits. The objective of the present study was to stress-test some conventional analytical techniques used by commercial laboratories in terms of their ability to maintain data quality objectives (DQOs) in the face of sample weight constraints. Four laboratories analyzed blind a suite of identical samples, and data were compared against a priori DQOs for accuracy, precision, and sensitivity. Data quality tended to decrease with decreasing sample weight, particularly when samples were less than the minimum weights requested by the participating laboratories; however, effects of sample weight on data quality were not consistent among laboratories or tissue types. The present study has implications for accurately describing regulatory compliance in Se monitoring programs, highlighting some important considerations for achieving high data quality from low-weight samples. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2119–2129. © 2023 SETAC
Does an apple a day keep away diseases? Evidence and mechanism of action
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zeng Miao , Zhang Xiaolu , Yu Qun , Zeng Wenyun , Yu Bin , Gan Jiali , Zhang Shiwu , Jiang Xijuan
Published: June 2023

Apples and their products exemplify the recently reemphasized link between dietary fruit intake and the alleviation of human disease. Their consumption does indeed improve human health due to their high phytochemical content. To identify potentially relevant articles from clinical trials, some epidemiological studies and meta‐analyses, and in vitro and in vivo studies (cell cultures and animal models), PubMed was searched from January 1, 2012, to May 15, 2022. This review summarized the potential effects of apple and apple products (juices, puree, pomace, dried apples, extracts rich in apple bioactives and single apple bioactives) on health. Apples and apple products have protective effects against cardiovascular diseases, cancer, as well as mild cognitive impairment and promote hair growth, healing of burn wounds, improve the oral environment, prevent niacin‐induced skin flushing, promote the relief of UV‐induced skin pigmentation, and improve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis as well as cedar hay fever among others. These effects are associated with various mechanisms, such as vascular endothelial protection, blood lipids lowering, anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antiapoptotic, anti‐invasion, and antimetastatic effects. Meanwhile, it has provided an important reference for the application and development of medicine, nutrition, and other fields.
Within‐network brain connectivity during a social optimism task is related to personal optimism and optimism for in‐group members
Authors: Moser Dominik Andreas , Dricu Mihai , Kotikalapudi Raviteja , Doucet Gaelle Eve , Aue Tatjana
Published: June 2023

Optimism bias is the tendency to believe desirable events are more likely to happen than undesirable ones. People often display optimistic biases for themselves (personal optimism), but also for members of groups they like or identify with (social optimism). However, the neural bases of and connections between these two concepts are poorly understood. The present study hence used both questionnaires and a social optimism task performed during magnetic resonance imaging to investigate how network connectivity associates with personal and social optimism biases. Using sparse canonical correlation analysis, we found that a behavioral dimension that included both in‐group optimism bias and personal optimism bias was positively associated with a dimension of network connectivity. This dimension comprised two networks with positive weights (dorsal precuneus‐related default mode network and dorsal sensorimotor network), and three with negative weights (including parts of the salience and central executive networks). Our findings indicate that connectivity in networks adjacent to the temporoparietal junction favors propagation of both personal and social optimism biases. Meanwhile, low connectivity in more frontal networks associated with more complex cognition may also further such propagation.
The effect of aminophylline on the recovery profile after hysterectomy: A randomized controlled double‐blinded study
Authors: Mirsadeghi Misa Naghdipour , Biazar Gelareh , Soltanipour Soheil , Rad Reyhaneh Shahrokhi , Madani Zahra Hamidi , Nikbin Laya
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

In anesthesia practice, aminophylline is clinically used to treat bronchospasm. However, due to its antagonistic effect on adenosine, studies have recently focused on the drug's ability to enhance the recovery profile. The aim of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that the administration of aminophylline leads to better recovery after general anesthesia in hysterectomy.

Methods

This randomized controlled double‐blinded study, was conducted at Alzahra academic hospital in Guilan, Iran. During December 2022 to March 2023, 70 eligible women scheduled for elective abdominal hysterectomy were divided into two groups. Group A: received 3 mg/kg IV aminophylline diluted in 100 mL of normal saline and Group C: received 100 mL IV normal saline. The time to recovery of consciousness, tracheal extubation and discharge from post anesthesia care unit were recorded. In addition, heart rate, and mean arterial blood pressure were measured at 10 point times including; baseline (T0), immediately before the administration of aminophylline (T1), every 5 min until the end of the surgery(T2,T3,T4,T5,T6), and every 15 min in PACU(T7,T8,T9).

Results

There was no significant difference in terms of demographic data between the study groups. Comparing the two groups, the time of ROC was shorter in Group A than group C; 5.95 ± 1.12 and 8.5 ± 1.77 for Groups A and C, respectively (p < 0.001). The extubation time was shorter in Group A than group C; 7.79 ± 1.48 and 10.55 ± 3.02, for Groups A and C, respectively (p < 0.001). In addition, the discharge time was also shorter in group A than Group C; 30.17 ± 5.24 and 37.57 ± 4.41 for Groups A and C, respectively (p < 0.001). Not serious side effects were reported among 71.4% of cases in Group A and 51.4% in Group C (p = 0.086).

Conclusion

Administration of aminophylline at a dose of 3 mg/kg IV improves the recovery profile after abdominal hysterectomy without serious adverse effects.
A spatiotemporally explicit modeling approach for more realistic exposure and risk assessment of off-field soil organisms
Authors: Schad Thorsten , Bub Sascha , Wang Magnus , Holmes Christopher M. , Kleinmann Joachim , Hammel Klaus , Ernst Gregor , Preuss Thomas G.
Published: June 2023

Natural and seminatural habitats of soil living organisms in cultivated landscapes can be subject to unintended exposure by active substances of plant protection products (PPPs) used in adjacent fields. Spray-drift deposition and runoff are considered major exposure routes into such off-field areas. In this work, we develop a model (xOffFieldSoil) and associated scenarios to estimate exposure of off-field soil habitats. The modular model approach consists of components, each addressing a specific aspect of exposure processes, for example, PPP use, drift deposition, runoff generation and filtering, estimation of soil concentrations. The approach is spatiotemporally explicit and operates at scales ranging from local edge-of-field to large landscapes. The outcome can be aggregated and presented to the risk assessor in a way that addresses the dimensions and scales defined in specific protection goals (SPGs). The approach can be used to assess the effect of mitigation options, for example, field margins, in-field buffers, or drift-reducing technology. The presented provisional scenarios start with a schematic edge-of-field situation and extend to real-world landscapes of up to 5 km × 5 km. A case study was conducted for two active substances of different environmental fate characteristics. Results are presented as a collection of percentiles over time and space, as contour plots, and as maps. The results show that exposure patterns of off-field soil organisms are of a complex nature due to spatial and temporal variabilities combined with landscape structure and event-based processes. Our concepts and analysis demonstrate that more realistic exposure data can be meaningfully consolidated to serve in standard-tier risk assessments. The real-world landscape-scale scenarios indicate risk hot-spots that support the identification of efficient risk mitigation. As a next step, the spatiotemporally explicit exposure data can be directly coupled to ecological effect models (e.g., for earthworms or collembola) to conduct risk assessments at biological entity levels as required by SPGs. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:263–278. © 2023 Applied Analysis Solutions LLC and WSC Scientific GmbH and Bayer AG and The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC)
Observing and interpreting clinical process: Methods and findings from ‘Layered analysis’ of parent–infant psychotherapy
Authors: Baradon Tessa , Avdi Evrinomy , Sleed Michelle , Salomonsson Björn , Amiran Keren
Published: June 2023

This paper describes a method for investigating clinical process, Layered Analysis, which combines therapist countertransference reports and multi‐faceted microanalytic research approaches. Findings from the application of Layered Analysis to video‐recorded micro‐events of rupture and repair in four psychoanalytic parent–infant psychotherapy sessions are presented. Layered analysis showed that countertransference and observation are complementary perspectives, which enable concomitant study of interactive events, conscious internal experiences, as well as nonconscious and unconscious elements of therapeutic interaction. Interactional rupture and repair were found to constitute co‐constructed micro‐events that occurred fleetingly and often implicitly, and differed in the structure, coherence and flow of interactions and in the relationship between verbal and nonverbal communication. Furthermore, interactional ruptures were found to sometimes ‘get into’ the therapist and transiently disrupt their self‐organization, such that the therapist became a locus of disruption for the patient(s), actively contributing to the rupture, which thus became embedded in the therapeutic system. Interactive repair was found to be most often initiated by the therapist and to be underpinned by the therapist re‐establishing self‐regulation, through metabolizing embodied and verbal aspects of the rupture. Studying such processes can enhance our understanding of clinical process, inform therapist training and clinical supervision, and contribute to clinical outcomes.
Exposure to Multiple Air Pollutants and the Risk of Fractures: A Large Prospective Population-Based Study
Authors: Qi Wenhao , Mei Zhendong , Sun Zhonghan , Lin Chenhao , Lin Jinran , Li Jialin , Ji John S. , Zheng Yan
Published: June 2023

Atmospheric chemistry studies suggest air pollution impedes ultraviolet B photons and thus reduces cutaneous vitamin D3 synthesis. Biological evidence shows that inhaled pollutants disrupt circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) metabolism and ultimately impact bone health. The hypothesis is that higher air pollution concentrations are associated with a higher risk of fractures, mediated by lower circulating 25(OH)D. The study included participants of the UK Biobank who were free of fracture history at enrollment (2006 to 2010) and analyzed their environmental exposure data (2007 to 2010). Air pollution measurements included the annual averages of air particulate matter (PM2.5, PM2.5–10, and PM10), nitrogen oxides (NO2 and NOx), and a composite air pollution score. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the associations of the individual pollutants and the score with fracture risks. Mediation analyses were conducted to assess the underlying role of serum 25(OH)D in such associations. Among 446,395 participants with a median of 8-year follow-up, 12,288 incident fractures were documented. Participants living in places with the highest quintile of air pollution score had a 15.3% increased risk of fractures (hazard ratio [95%CI]: 1.15[1.09,1.22]) compared to those in the lowest, and 5.49% of this association was mediated through serum 25(OH)D (pmediation < 0.05). Pollutant-specific hazard of top-to-bottom quintiles was 16% for PM2.5, 4% for PM2.5–10, 5% for PM10, 20% for NO2, and 17% for NOx, with a 4% to 6% mediation effect of serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The associations of the air pollution score with fracture risks were weaker among female participants, those who drank less alcohol, and consumed more fresh fruit than their counterparts (pinteraction < 0.05). © 2023 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Abstract
TACC3 is an independent prognostic marker, and knockdown of TACC3 enhances the efficacy of CDK1 inhibitor RO3306 in liver cancer cells
Authors: Guo Enshuang , Yang Jiankun , Li Lei , Chen Jia , Liu Hongqiang
Published: June 2023

The drug resistance of single‐target therapy has gradually become an intractable clinical problem. Combination therapy may be an effective treatment to overcome or postpone drug resistance in cancer. Herein, we discussed the synergistic effect of transforming acidic coiled‐coil containing protein 3 (TACC3) suppression and cyclin‐dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The Cancer Genome Atlas database and bioinformatics methods were implemented to analyze the expression of CDK1 and TACC3, and predict the biological function of TACC3‐related genes in HCC. In addition, in vitro experiments, including cell counting kit 8, transwell and flow cytometry were utilized to evaluate cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of HCC cells. Our results demonstrated that TACC3 is an unfavorable and independent prognostic factor to predict poor overall survival (OS) in HCC patients. Genetic inhibition of TACC3 exhibited a remarkable antineoplastic activity of HCC cell lines. Bioinformatic prediction proposed that CDK1 may be the main regulator of TACC3‐related genes in HCC. In vitro experimental measurements suggested that a combination of si‐TACC3 and CDK1 inhibitor synergistically inhibited cell proliferation and migration, and induced G2 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of HepG2 or MHCC97H cells. In conclusion, our results revealed a prospective dual‐target, TACC3 and CDK1, therapeutic strategy to improve the treatment of HCC.
Blood Pressure Control Following Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers: Insights from a Triple‐Blind, Randomized, Clinical Trial
Authors: Sharifan Amin , Bahreini Maryam , Ashraf Haleh , Najmeddin Farhad
Published: June 2023

Data on substituting one antihypertensive medication with the proper dose of another antihypertensive medication, in certain medical conditions, are scarce. Herein, we present the results of replacing angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) with the calcium channel blocker (CCB) amlodipine, with or without the alpha‐ and beta‐blocker carvedilol, to control high blood pressure in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Iranian hypertensive patients with COVID‐19 and a history of taking ACEI or ARB were randomized to “continue” and “change” groups. The continue group comprised patients who continued using their previous antihypertensive medication regimen as normal, whereas patients in the change group had their antihypertensive drugs changed to the CCB amlodipine, with or without the alpha‐ and beta‐blocker carvedilol, based on their response to amlodipine. Patients’ blood pressures were measured for 8 days following their recruitment. A total of 31 and 33 patients were randomly allocated to the ACEI/ARB continue and ACEI/ARB change groups, respectively. No significant deviations were seen in patients’ systolic blood pressure by substituting an ACEI/ARB agent with the CCB amlodipine, with or without the alpha‐ and beta‐blocker carvedilol. Moreover, the change group had a more balanced systolic blood pressure (ie, 110–130 mmHg) compared with the continue group (ie, 111.5–140.0 mmHg) throughout their hospitalization period. During their hospitalization, the blood pressure of the change group was well controlled with the proposed equivalent doses. Further investigations of the proposed equivalent doses in larger randomized clinical trials, populations other than Iranian COVID‐19 patients, and extended duration are encouraged (clinical trial registration ID: IRCT20151113025025N3).
Role of the Cu dopant in the textural and catalytic features of the Co/ZnO catalyst for dimethyl oxalate selective hydrogenation
Authors: Kong Xiangpeng , Wu Ruihan , Yuan Peihong , Wu Yuehuan , Wang Ruihong , Chang Xiliang , Wang Man , Wang Xiaoyu , Chen Jiangang
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Converting the syngas‐derived dimethyl oxalate (DMO) intermediate to versatile simple diols (ethylene glycol, EG) has been deemed as a promising chemical synthesis technology, owing to the cheap, widely available raw materials. Nonetheless, finding the optimal catalyst for this route is still challenging. In this work, copper (Cu)‐doped cobalt/zinc oxide (Co/ZnO)‐based CoCu/ZnO catalysts for DMO selective hydrogenation to EG were successfully synthesized by the oxalic co‐precipitation method.

RESULTS

The Cu content shows significant influence on Co dispersion and chemical features, further determining the resultant structural and morphology properties of the as‐prepared samples. For DMO gas‐phase hydrogenation, the CoCu20/ZnO catalyst prepared in presence of the 20.0 wt% Cu additive exhibited 100.0% DMO conversion and 93.0% EG yield, superior to that of the other catalysts due to adequate active Co0 sites released adjacent to the Cu species. Moreover, the CoCu/ZnO catalyst showed outstanding thermal stability in DMO‐selective hydrogenation for >200 h.

CONCLUSIONS

The H2 activation ability and capability of the surface Co species depends critically on the Cu content, further regulating the reaction pathways of the DMO hydrogenation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Treatment of maple syrup urine disease: Benefits, risks, and challenges of liver transplantation
Authors: Deon Marion , Guerreiro Gilian , Girardi Julia , Ribas Graziela , Vargas Carmen Regla
Published: June 2023

Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is caused by a deficiency in the activity of the branched‐chain α‐ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKD) complex, promoting the accumulation of the branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA) leucine, isoleucine, and valine, as well as their respective α‐keto acids. MSUD is an autosomal recessive hereditary metabolic disorder characterized by ketoacidosis, ataxia, coma, and mental and psychomotor retardation. The mechanisms involved in the brain damage caused by MSUD are not fully understood. Early diagnosis and treatment, as well as proper control of metabolic decompensation crises, are crucial for patients' survival and for a better prognosis. The recommended treatment consists of a high‐calorie diet with restricted protein intake and specific formulas containing essential amino acids, except those accumulated in MSUD. This treatment will be maintained throughout life, being adjusted according to the patients' nutritional needs and BCAA concentration. Because dietary treatment may not be sufficient to prevent neurological damage in MSUD patients, other therapeutic strategies have been studied, including liver transplantation. With transplantation, it is possible to obtain an increase of about 10% of the normal BCKD in the body, an amount sufficient to maintain amino acid homeostasis and reduce metabolic decompensation crises. However, the experience related to this practice is very limited when considering the shortage of liver for transplantation and the risks related to the surgical procedure and immunosuppression. Thus, the purpose of this review is to survey the benefits, risks, and challenges of liver transplantation in the treatment of MSUD.
Between‐hospital variation in clinical decision support availability for common inpatient pediatric conditions: Results of a national Pediatric Research in Inpatient Settings (PRĪS) Network survey
Authors: Carr Leah H. , Oluwalade Bolu , Muthu Naveen , Beus Jonathan , Bonafide Christopher P.
Published: June 2023

Implementing pediatric‐focused clinical decision support (CDS) into hospital electronic health records can lead to improvements in patient care and accelerate quality improvement and research initiatives. However, its design, development, and implementation can be a time‐consuming and costly endeavor that may not be feasible for all hospital settings. In this cross‐sectional study, we surveyed Pediatric Research in Inpatient Settings (PRĪS) Network hospitals about the availability of CDS tools to gain an understanding of the functionality available across 8 common inpatient pediatric diagnoses. Among the conditions, asthma had the most extensive CDS availability, while mood disorders had the least. Overall, freestanding children's hospitals had the greatest breadth in CDS coverage across conditions and depth in CDS types within conditions. Future initiatives should examine the relationship between CDS availability and clinical outcomes as well as its relationship with hospitals’ performance executing multicenter informatics projects, quality improvement collaboratives, and implementation science strategies.
Teaching and researching International Development: Amplifying voices from the Global South
Authors: Zimbalist Zack , Ramírez Jorge Antonio Asprón
Published: June 2023

Across academic disciplines, the knowledge that is produced and taught about International Development overwhelmingly comes from writers and academics who are from (and based in) the Global North. This phenomenon has major consequences for students, scholars, development practitioners and donors across the world. Drawing on data from university course syllabi and a small sample of faculty interviews, this article sheds further light on this reality and delineates some of the most significant challenges. Finally, we highlight efforts to address this problem and how others can contribute to improving our understanding of historically contingent and complex development processes across diverse contexts.
Additional occult cancers identified on staging breast MRI: imaging appearances and pathologic characteristics
Authors: Nassar Lara , Nakad Sanaa , Abou Zeid Farah , Farah Zeina , Saheb Ghida , Mroueh Nayla , Debs Patrick , Berjawi Ghina
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is increasingly being used for staging of patients with breast cancer due to its high sensitivity in detecting additional cancers (ACs). However, the clinical impact of diagnosing and treating these cancers remains unclear.

Methods

A retrospective study was undertaken of patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer who underwent staging MRI at The American University of Beirut Medical Centre (AUBMC) between 2012 and 2020. Pathology reports and breast MRI examinations were reviewed. Eighteen breast cancer patients with 19 pathology‐proven index cancers (ICs) and 19 pathology‐proven MRI‐detected ACs were included. Chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests for categorical variables and Wilcoxon signed rank test for numerical variables were used to compare ICs to ACs.

Results

The ICs consisted of four ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), 13 invasive ductal carcinomas (IDC), of which five with associated DCIS, and two invasive lobular carcinomas, (ILC) of which one with associated DCIS. ACs comprised 12 DCIS, five IDC, two with associated DCIS and two ILC, one with associated DCIS. Interval cancers were more frequently invasive whereas ACs were more frequently in situ (P = 0.021). ACs were more frequently nuclear grade 2 (P = 0.009). There was no statistically significant difference between ICs and ACs in lesion type (P = 0.062), shape (P = 0.073), initial enhancement (P = 1), delayed enhancement (P = 0.732), hormonal receptor profile (P = 0.68) and Ki67 (P = 0.388). Among ACs, ten (53%) were larger than 10 mm of which five (26%) were invasive cancers, and five (26%) were larger than the ICs.

Conclusions

ACs detected by breast MRI were more likely to be in situ and to show a nuclear grade 2. Although not reaching statistical significance, some ACs tend to be clinically significant by their type, size or nuclear grade. The impact on clinical management remains to be determined.
COVID‐19db linkage maps of cell surface proteins and transcription factors in immune cells
Authors: Ramjattun Koushul , Ma Xiaojun , Gao Shou‐Jiang , Singh Harinder , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice Ulku
Published: June 2023

The highly contagious SARS‐CoV‐2 and its associated disease (COVID‐19) are a threat to global public health and economies. To develop effective treatments for COVID‐19, we must understand the host cell types, cell states and regulators associated with infection and pathogenesis such as dysregulated transcription factors (TFs) and surface proteins, including signaling receptors. To link cell surface proteins with TFs, we recently developed SPaRTAN (Single‐cell Proteomic and RNA‐based Transcription factor Activity Network) by integrating parallel single‐cell proteomic and transcriptomic data based on Cellular Indexing of Transcriptomes and Epitopes by sequencing (CITE‐seq) and gene cis‐regulatory information. We apply SPaRTAN to CITE‐seq data sets from patients with varying degrees of COVID‐19 severity and healthy controls to identify the associations between surface proteins and TFs in host immune cells. Here, we present COVID‐19db of Immune Cell States (https://covid19db.streamlit.app/), a web server containing cell surface protein expression, SPaRTAN‐inferred TF activities, and their associations with major host immune cell types. The data include four high‐quality COVID‐19 CITE‐seq data sets with a toolset for user‐friendly data analysis and visualization. We provide interactive surface protein and TF visualizations across major immune cell types for each data set, allowing comparison between various patient severity groups for the discovery of potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers.
Effects of low temperature and highlight stress on lipid accumulation and cell structure of Tropidoneis maxima
Authors: Luo Yuanyuan , Ding Yuhui , Jiang Xiamin , Zeng Guoquan , Peng Ruibing , Han Qingxi , Jiang Maowang
Published: June 2023

Tropidoneis maxima is a marine diatom with a rapid growth rate that produces high levels of lipids. To explore whether the lipid content could be further enhanced, cultures were first incubated under optimal conditions and then stressed under low temperature (10°C), a high light intensity level (80 μmol/m2·s), and the two factors together (interaction treatment). The results indicated that high light intensity and the temperature‐light interaction exhibited greater impacts on lipid synthesis of T. maxima than low temperature. The two stress treatments increased lipid content by 17.16% and 16.6% compared to the control. In particular, higher biomass concentration was obtained with high light intensity (1.082 g L−1) and low temperature (1.026 g L−1). Moreover, high light intensity (9.06%) and interaction (10.3%) treatments yielded lower starch content compared to low temperature (14.27%) at the end of the stress culture. After 3 days of stress culture, the high light intensity treatment resulted in a 97.01% increase in cell wall thickness and an 18.46% decrease in cell diameter. The results suggest that high light intensity stress on T. maxima would open a new approach to cost‐effective biolipid production.
Multi‐target bioactive compound screening from the infructescence of Platycarya strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc. by affinity chromatography using immobilized β2‐adrenoceptor and muscarinic‐3 acetylcholine receptor as the stationary phase
Authors: Zhang HaoSen , Wang Jing , Wang Chaozhan
Published: June 2023

As a main source for the recognition and identification of lead compounds, traditional Chinese medicine plays a pivotal role in preventing diseases for years. However, screening bioactive compounds from traditional Chinese medicine remains challenging because of the complexity of the systems and the occurrence of the synergic effect of the compounds. The infructescence of Platycarya strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc is prescribed for allergic rhinitis treatment with unknown bioactive compounds and unclear mechanisms. Herein, we immobilized the β2‐adrenoceptor and muscarine‐3 acetylcholine receptor onto the silica gel surface to prepare the stationary phase in a covalent bond through one step. The feasibility of the columns was investigated by the chromatographic method. Ellagic acid and catechin were identified as the bioactive compounds targeting the receptors. The binding constants of ellagic acid were calculated to be (1.56 ± 0.23)×107 M−1 for muscarine‐3 acetylcholine receptor and (2.93 ± 0.15)×107 M−1 for β2‐adrenoceptor by frontal analysis. While catechin can bind with muscarine‐3 acetylcholine receptor with an affinity of (3.21 ± 0.05)×105 M−1. Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals’ force were the main driving forces for the two compounds with the receptors. The established method provides an alternative for multi‐target bioactive compound screening in complex matrices.
Nomogram Analysis Based on Clinical and Sonographic Characteristics for the Assessment of Postpartum Stress Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Xiao Ting , Cao Yunqing , Zhen Chaojiong , Chen Ziman , Huang Weijun , Su Zhongzhen
Published: June 2023

Objectives

We aimed to develop and validate a nomogram integrating clinical and sonographic characteristics for the individualized SUI risk evaluation in the early postpartum stage.

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional study. From June 2020 to September 2022, singleton primiparas who underwent TPUS examination at 6–8 weeks postpartum were recruited. They were divided into the training and validation cohorts at a ratio of 8:2 according to the temporal split. All subjects were interviewed before TPUS examination. Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses were performed to develop three models: the clinical, sonographic, and combined models. The ROC curve was plotted to evaluate model discrimination ability. Finally, the combined model was selected to establish the nomogram. The nomogram's discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness were evaluated in the training and validation cohorts.

Results

The performance of the combined model was better than that of the clinical and sonographic models. Six predictors (BMI, delivery mode, lateral episiotomy, SUI during pregnancy, cystocele, and bladder neck funneling) remained in the combined model. The nomogram based on the combined model had good discrimination with AUCs of 0.848 (95% CI: 0.796–0.900) and 0.872 (95% CI: 0.789–0.955) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively, and the calibration curve showed good efficiency in assessing postpartum SUI. Decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram was clinically useful.

Conclusions

The nomogram based on clinical and sonographic characteristics showed good efficiency in assessing postpartum SUI risk and can be a convenient and reliable tool for individual SUI risk assessment.
Advancing wildlife connectivity in land use planning: a case study with four‐toed salamanders
Authors: Wade Bryce S. , Carter Evin T. , Derolph Christopher R. , Byrd Greg , Darling Sarah E. , Hayter Lindsey E. , Jett R. Trent , Herold Jamie M. , Giffen Neil R.
Published: June 2023

Stable habitat connections that wildlife can safely traverse are essential to biodiversity conservation and healthy ecosystems. We developed high‐resolution landscape connectivity models to predict resistance to movement by a threatened wetland‐obligate amphibian, the four‐toed salamander (Hemidactylium scutatum), and identified priority management areas on the 13,000‐ha Department of Energy Oak Ridge Reservation (ORR) from 2019 to 2022. We developed a resistance surface based on aerial light detection and ranging data (LiDAR), >30 years of field‐based mapping of forest, hydrologic, and geologic features, and contemporary population surveys, alongside derived predictors at <1‐m resolution. We then modeled predicted movement corridors using a circuit theory‐based modeling approach. We worked closely with land management and natural resources personnel to integrate ecological modeling with broader land use priorities, monetary costs, and feasibility. We identified important terrestrial and aquatic areas on ORR and simulated management scenarios to promote stable connections for four‐toed salamanders. This approach allowed us to narrow down a list of 438 potential habitat manipulation sites to 10 sites where open‐bottomed culverts and buffers could be implemented. This smaller‐scale restoration approach produced a similar increase in landscape connectivity while costing <20% of a larger‐scale approach based on barrier removal. We successfully identified feasible, cost‐effective management strategies that integrated knowledge from a variety of sources. We offer a strategy that permitted integration of wildlife management goals into infrastructure upgrades wherein wildlife was not an initial consideration.
Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Trigeminal Schwannomas: Tailored Approaches Based on Lesion Traits
Authors: Wu Xiao , Pan Lai Sheng , Wu Bo Wen , Wu Jie , Chen Yu Xin , Xie Shen Hao , Wan Xi Chen , Din Han , Zhan Jie , Xiao Li Min , Tang Bin , Hong Tao
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To describe four endoscopic endonasal subapproaches, namely, the trans‐lamina papyracea, trans‐prelacrimal recess, trans‐Meckel's cave, and transclival approaches for trigeminal schwannomas (TSs).

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed the medical records and intraoperative videos of 38 patients with TSs who underwent endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) between Jan 2013 and Dec 2021.

Results

According to Jeong's classification, for TS equally in middle and posterior fossae (MP), a purely trans‐Meckel's cave approach was carried out in 2 cases, and a combined transclival approach was carried out in 4 cases. The four tumors that involved infratemporal fossa (two E3, one mE3, and one Mpe3) were performed via a trans‐prelacrimal recess approach, and type Mpe3 was also assisted by the trans‐Meckel's cave approach. One patient with type E1 was treated with a trans‐lamina papyracea approach. The other 27 cases, including type M, Mp, ME2, and MpE2, were all removed by a purely trans‐Meckel's cave approach. Thirty‐six patients (97.4%) received total resection under a purely EEA. The functional abilities and preoperative symptoms of 31 patients (88.6%) improved. Eight (21.1%) patients experienced permanent neurological function deficits. Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid and intraoperative internal carotid artery injury occurred in 1 (2.6%) patient.

Conclusion

According to the specific endoscopic endonasal subapproaches corresponding to the different TS locations, satisfactory results can be obtained for most types of tumors. It represents an effective alternative to the open transcranial approach and can also be properly used in most types of TS with experienced hands.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:2564–2571, 2023
Women Surgeons Who Contributed to the Development of Pediatric Otolaryngology in the United States
Authors: Koempel Jeffrey A , Don Debra M. , Scholes Melissa A. , Chan Kenny H.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Our goal was to identify the early pioneering women surgeons in the United States who devoted their career or the majority of their practice to the care of otolaryngologic disorders in children. We sought to share their stories, recognize their contributions to the surgical subspecialty now known as pediatric otolaryngology, and acknowledge their vision and leadership.

Data Sources

Primary sources include books, published articles in the medical literature, newspaper articles, memorials/obituaries in both the medical literature and lay press, web logs, the John Q Adams Center for the History of Otolaryngology to include the Women in Otolaryngology, a number of otolaryngology departments, and children's hospitals nationwide. Interviews were conducted with former colleagues and senior pediatric otolaryngologists.

Review Methods

Following review of all available information, women surgeons were included in this study if there was documentation of a clinical practice involving the otolaryngologic care of children in the United States before 1985 with demonstration of the education of others in this discipline.

Results

Six women surgeons were identified: Drs. Alice G Bryant, Margaret F. Butler, Ellen James Patterson, Emily Lois Van Loon, LaVonne Bernadene Bergstrom, and Joyce A. Schild.

Conclusion

Six pioneering women surgeons in the United States have been identified who devoted their practice to the care of otolaryngologic disorders in children and mentored or trained other health care providers. The stories of their lives, their contributions to the care of otolaryngologic disorders in children, and their work as mentors or educators have been described. Laryngoscope, 134:40–46, 2024
Environmental adaptations by the intertidal Antarctic cyanobacterium Halotia branconiiCENA392 as revealed using long‐read genome sequencing
Authors: Dextro Rafael B. , Delbaje Endrews , Freitas Paloma N. N. , Geraldes Vanessa , Pinto Ernani , Long Paul F. , Fiore Marli F.
Published: June 2023

Antarctica poses numerous challenges to life such as cold shock, low nutrient concentrations, and periodic desiccation over a wide range of extreme temperatures. Cyanobacteria survive this harsh environment having evolved adaptive metabolic plasticity to become the dominant primary producers. The type strain cyanobacterium Halotia branconii CENA392 was isolated from an Antarctic intertidal seashore. The complete circular genome of this strain is presented herein, which was assembled using long‐sequence reads. The genome encoded some stress‐related genes associated with low‐temperature adaptation and biosynthesis of mycosporine‐like amino acid (MAA) photoprotective compounds. Empirical experimentation demonstrated constitutive production of the MAA porphyra‐334 and total carotenoids without exposure to low temperatures or ultraviolet radiation stress. Phylogenetic analysis provided insights on taxonomic placement and evolutionary history of some annotated genes. These data exemplify the importance of generating complete quality genome sequences of microorganisms isolated from extreme intertidal environments, facilitating in‐depth evaluation of ecological and taxonomic inferences.
Multiscale Relaxation Behavior of Amorphous Plasticized Poly(vinyl butyral)
Authors: Lv Changzhu , Guo Hang , Yang Erjie , Xu Chunlei , Yan Qi , Meng Lingpu , Li Liangbin , Cui Kunpeng
Published: June 2023

As a key component in laminated glass, plasticized polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer is a kind of impact‐resistant polymer material with high toughness. Recently, by using ultrasmall angle X‐ray scattering (USAXS) technique, Stretch‐induced phase‐separated structure on the scale of hundreds of nanometers formed in plasticized PVB for the first time is reported. In this work, the multiscale relaxation behavior of plasticized PVB is further investigated. The relaxation behavior of deformed plasticized PVB is studied from macroscopic stress, mesoscopic phase‐separated structure, and microscopic chain segment by combining USAXS, and birefringence with in situ stretching device. The contributions of chain segments and hydrogen bonding clusters for the multiscale relaxation behavior are discussed.
How do ESG activities affect corporate performance?
Authors: Kao Fang Chen
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the impact of a company's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities on its financial performance. The COVID‐19 pandemic has caused unexpected difficulties in the operations of most companies, leading to a significant deterioration in their financial performance. We use empirical analysis to examine whether a company's ESG activities affect its financial performance. We employ the context‐dependent data envelopment analysis (DEA) model to evaluate the performance and provide a benchmark‐learning roadmap for 27 photoelectric companies in Taiwan. We also compare the marketability, innovation ability, and profitability of three sub‐industries: camera modules, optical component lenses, and optical components. Furthermore, we utilize a combination of classical DEA, stratification DEA, measurement of attractiveness, and progress for company evaluation. The results indicate that validating sustainability reports has a positive information effect, and high‐quality Global Reporting Initiative‐based external third‐party confirmed reports possess relatively high credibility, readability, and information value. The content and quality of these reports have an impact on performance. These findings offer insights into the role of ESG activities in the photoelectric industry and can help managers reflect upon and justify their choice to invest in specific ESG activities. Therefore, this research highlights the importance of green operations for firms.