bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Nanocarrier Approach for Oral Peptide Delivery: Evaluation of Cell‐Penetrating‐Peptide‐Modified Liposomal Formulations in Dogs
Authors: Uhl Philipp , Bajraktari‐Sylejmani Gzona , Witzigmann Dominik , Bay Cindy , Zimmermann Stefan , Burhenne Jürgen , Weiss Johanna , Haefeli Walter E. , Sauter Max
Published: June 2023

Oral delivery of peptides is severely limited by their instability and poor absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. In contrast to coadministration strategies using medium‐chain fatty acids, which have recently gained regulatory approval with low oral bioavailabilities ≤ 1% (Rybelsus and Mycapssa), efforts to clinically implement delivery systems based on nanocarriers have not been successful to date. The approved drug‐delivery formulations show fairly accurate correlation between clinical results and nonrodent mammal bioavailability, including Beagle dogs for Rybelsus, indicating that Beagle dogs represent a translationally relevant model. Here, a nanocarrier formulation for the oral administration of peptide therapeutics is reported with systemic targets consisting of liposomes decorated with cyclic cell‐penetrating peptides, which significantly increase oral bioavailability in translationally relevant Beagle dogs. This nanocarrier formulation is optimized using the glycopeptide vancomycin, and results in a considerable oral bioavailability of 3.9%. Further, this nanocarrier system increases the oral bioavailability of the large linear peptide therapeutic exenatide 20‐fold, and consistently achieves effective plasma concentrations in Beagle dogs.
Dual‐Supporter and Dual‐Salt Strategy for Solid Polymer Electrolyte with High Ionic Conductivity and Elastic Toughness
Authors: Lee Hyo Chan , Kim Min‐Jae , Kim Myeong‐Hyeon , Yoon Tae Woong , Kim Myeong‐Eun , Lee Hwa Sung , Ham Dong Seok , Lee Dongki , Ha Chaeyeon , Kim Young‐Jun , Kang Boseok
Published: June 2023

In recent years, ionic liquid (IL)‐based solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) have attracted much attention as conducting or capacitive materials for stretchable electronics. To fabricate fast and mechanically robust electronic devices, the high ionic conductivity and high elastic toughness of the SPE are essential. However, it has been challenging to achieve both high ionic conductivity and high elastic toughness simultaneously because high ionic conductivity generally requires low crystallinity of the polymer chains. Herein, a facile strategy for fabricating highly conductive, mechanically robust, and thermally stable SPE is demonstrated. A glass fiber mesh and La0.57Li0.29TiO3 particles as dual‐supporters are introduced, and 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([EMIM][TFSI]) and bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amine lithium salt (LiTFSI) (having the same anion) as the dual salt in the polymer electrolyte is introduced. Consequently, the SPE exhibits a superior ionic conductivity of 2.4 × 10−2 S cm−1 at room temperature and an outstanding elastic toughness of ≈170.3 kJ m−2. Finally, the dual‐salt/dual‐supporter SPE is successfully applied to high‐performance organic electrolyte‐gated transistors as gate dielectric materials and highly sensitive capacitive pressure sensors as force‐sensitive dielectric layers.
Double jeopardy: COVID‐19, coup d'état and poverty in Myanmar
Authors: Boughton Duncan , Headey Derek , Mahrt Kristi , Cho Ame , Diao Xinshen , Lambrecht Isabel , Minten Bart , Goeb Joey , Masias Ian , Belton Ben , Aung Nilar , San Cho Cho
Published: June 2023

Myanmar experienced multiple COVID shocks as well as a military takeover in February 2021. Impacts on household poverty remain uncertain, however, because large‐scale in‐person surveys were impossible during the pandemic and heightened internal conflict. We use ex ante simulation models and phone survey evidence to estimate the poverty effects of these shocks and identify factors correlated with them. While each approach has limitations, and cannot explicitly validate each other, they both indicate rising rural and urban poverty and capital‐depleting coping mechanisms. Wider use of simulation modeling could help mobilize social protection faster than waiting for survey results in emergencies.
Workshop in Simulation Debriefing for Educators in Medicine: Creation, implementation, and evaluation of a debriefing curriculum for novice simulation educators
Authors: Chen Tina H. , Bentley Suzanne K. , Nadir Nur‐Ain , Beattie Lars K. , Lei Charles , Hock Sara M. , Munzer Brendan W. , Moadel Tiffany , Paetow Glenn , Young Amanda , Stapleton Stephanie N.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Debriefing is an integral component of simulation education, and effective debriefing education is required to maintain effective simulation programs. However, many educators report financial and logistical barriers to accessing formal debriefing training. Due to limited educator development opportunities, simulation program leaders are often compelled to utilize educators with insufficient debriefing training, which can limit the impact of simulation‐based education. To address these concerns, the SAEM Simulation Academy Debriefing Workgroup authored the Workshop in Simulation Debriefing for Educators in Medicine (WiSDEM), a freely available, concise, and ready‐to‐deploy debriefing curriculum with a target audience of novice educators without formal debriefing training. In this study, we describe the development, initial implementation, and evaluation of the WiSDEM curriculum.

Methods

The Debriefing Workgroup iteratively developed the WiSDEM curriculum by expert consensus. The targeted level of content expertise was introductory. The curriculum's educational impact was assessed by surveying participants on their impressions of the curriculum and their confidence and self‐efficacy in mastery of the material. Additionally, facilitators of the WiSDEM curriculum were surveyed on its content, usefulness, and future applicability.

Results

The WiSDEM curriculum was deployed during the SAEM 2022 Annual Meeting as a didactic presentation. Thirty‐nine of 44 participants completed the participant survey, and four of four facilitators completed the facilitator survey. Participant and facilitator feedback on the curriculum content was positive. Additionally, participants agreed that the WiSDEM curriculum improved their confidence and self‐efficacy in future debriefing. All surveyed facilitators agreed that they would recommend the curriculum to others.

Conclusions

The WiSDEM curriculum was effective at introducing basic debriefing principles to novice educators without formal debriefing training. Facilitators felt that the educational materials would be useful for providing debriefing training at other institutions. Consensus‐driven, ready‐to‐deploy debriefing training materials such as the WiSDEM curriculum can address common barriers to developing basic debriefing proficiency in educators.
Strategies for recruiting underrepresented in medicine and sexual and gender minority students to emergency medicine
Authors: Wilson Lauren T. , Weigel Benjamin , Ordonez Edgardo , Sekhon Navdeep , Adesina Adedoyin , Turner Anisha , Tichter Aleksandr M. , Bezek Sarah , Thomas Ynhi T.
Published: June 2023

Background

Despite having well‐described benefits, diversifying the physician workforce has been an ongoing challenge. Within emergency medicine (EM), multiple professional organizations have identified expanding diversity and inclusion as top priorities. The following is a description of an interactive session held at the SAEM annual meeting addressing recruitment strategies for underrepresented in medicine (URiM) and sexual and gender minority (SGM) students into EM.

Methods

During the session, the authors provided an overview of the current state of diversity in EM. In the small‐group portion of the session, a facilitator helped characterize the challenges programs face in recruiting URiM and SGM students. These challenges were described during three distinct phases of the recruitment process: (1) preinterview, (2) interview day, and (3) postinterview.

Results

Our facilitated small‐group session allowed for discussing the challenges faced by various programs in recruiting a diverse group of trainees. Common challenges in the preinterview and interview day included messaging and visibility as well as funding and support. Postinterview challenges included communication and the ranking process. Through this exercise, we were able to collaboratively share ideas on tangible solutions that programs may use to overcome their specific challenges.

Conclusions

Given the importance of intentionality in diversifying the physician workforce, the authors describe successful strategies implemented within one residency program and those shared by session participants to overcome recruitment challenges.
Closing the gender pay gap in emergency medicine: Paradigms to consider for leaders, faculty, and trainees
Authors: Elia Tala , Temin Elizabeth , Chekijian Sharon , Raukar Neha , Gottlieb Amy
Published: June 2023

The gender pay gap among physicians is a well documented and persistent problem and has a profound impact on earnings over a career lifetime. This paper describes examples of concrete initiatives three institutions took to identify and address gender pay gaps. Salary audits at two academic emergency departments highlight the importance of not only ensuring equity in salary among physicians of the same rank but also monitoring whether women are achieving equal representation at higher academic ranks and leadership, elements that typically contribute to compensation. These audits reveal how senior rank and formal leadership roles are significantly associated with salary disparities. A third school of medicine–wide initiative entailed conducting comprehensive salary audits followed by review and adjustment of faculty compensation to achieve pay equity. Graduating residents and fellows seeking first jobs out of training and faculty looking to be compensated equitably would benefit from understanding the elements that drive their compensation and advocating for frameworks that are understandable and transparent.
Killing the sacred dairy cow? Consumer preferences for plant‐based milk alternatives
Authors: Slade Peter , Markevych Mila
Published: June 2023

We examine the relationship between demand for plant‐based milk alternatives and dairy milk using data from a survey and a discrete choice experiment completed by 902 Canadians. Our survey results show that most individuals who drink milk alternatives also consume dairy milk, and preferences for milk alternatives vary across consumption contexts. Using our experimental data, we estimate consumer preferences via a mixed logit model. These preferences are then used to calculate a set of price elasticities and to predict market shares for dairy milk in counterfactual simulations that exclude select milk alternatives. Although the elasticity of dairy milk with respect to the price of milk alternatives is relatively low, we predict that between 57% and 83% of respondents who purchase milk alternatives would have purchased dairy milk if milk alternatives were not available, depending on the counterfactual. We also show that preferences for milk alternatives are linked to age and food values. Finally, we use our experiment to test the impact of additional information about the impact of dairy milk on animal welfare, the environment, and nutrition on preferences for milk alternatives. The treatment effects are generally statistically insignificant. [EconLit Citations: L66, Q18, D12]
Impact of a novel prognostic model on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation outcomes in patients withCMML
Authors: Zhou Jian‐Ying , Wang Song , Yuan Hai‐Long , Xu Ya‐Jing , Huang Xiao‐Bing , Gao Su‐Jun , Zhang Yi‐Cheng , Zhou Fang , Liu Yue , Song Xian‐Min , Cai Yu , Liu Xiao‐Liang , Luo Yi , Yang Lu‐Xin , Yang Jian‐Min , Wang Li‐Bing , Li Yu‐Hua , Huang Rui , Wang Shun‐Qing , Zhou Ming , Dong Yu‐Jun , Wang Qian , Zhang Xi , Feng Yi‐Mei , Du Xin , Ling Wei , Zhu Han , Zhu Zun‐Min , Chen Xiang‐Li , Wang Shi‐Yu , Meng Fan‐Kai , Bi Ke‐Hong , Huang Ning , Jiang Ming , Niu Ting , Ji Jie , Wan Ding‐Ming , Bian Zhi‐Lei , Chen Yi , Liu Li , Yan Xue‐Qian , Yang Xi , Yi Hai , Wei Xu‐Dong , Li Xin , Cheng Qian , Yuan Cheng‐Lu , Wang Wen , Zhou Yu‐Hong , Ye Bao‐Dong , Ding Jing , Wu Ye‐Jun , Huang Qiu‐Sha , Zhu Xiao‐Lu , Chen Yu‐Hong , He Yun , Wang Feng‐Rong , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Mo Xiao‐Dong , Han Wei , Wang Jing‐Zhi , Wang Yu , Chen Huan , Zhao Xiang‐Yu , Chang Ying‐Jun , Liu Kai‐Yan , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Zhang Xiao‐Hui
Published: June 2023

Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a clonal hematopoietic stem cell malignancy, and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is the only curable treatment. The outcomes after transplant are influenced by both disease characteristics and patient comorbidities. To develop a novel prognostic model to predict the post‐transplant survival of CMML patients, we identified risk factors by applying univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression to a derivation cohort. In multivariable analysis, advanced age (hazard ratio [HR] 3.583), leukocyte count (HR 3.499), anemia (HR 3.439), bone marrow blast cell count (HR 2.095), and no chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD; HR 4.799) were independently associated with worse survival. A novel prognostic model termed ABLAG (Age, Blast, Leukocyte, Anemia, cGVHD) was developed and the points were assigned according to the regression equation. The patients were categorized into low risk (0–1), intermediate risk (2, 3), and high risk (4–6) three groups and the 3‐year overall survival (OS) were 93.3% (95%CI, 61%–99%), 78.9% (95%CI, 60%–90%), and 51.6% (95%CI, 32%–68%;p < .001), respectively. In internal and external validation cohort, the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the ABLAG model were 0.829 (95% CI, 0.776–0.902) and 0.749 (95% CI, 0.684–0.854). Compared with existing models designed for the nontransplant setting, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis showed that the ABLAG model revealed a high consistency between predicted and observed outcomes and patients could benefit from this model. In conclusion, combining disease and patient characteristic, the ABLAG model provides better survival stratification for CMML patients receiving allo‐HSCT.
Homozygous 22q11.2 distal type II microdeletion is associated with syndromic neurodevelopmental delay
Authors: Salah Somaya , Jaber Hiba , Frumkin Ayala , Harel Tamar
Published: June 2023

Genomic disorders result from heterozygous copy number variants (CNVs). Homozygous deletions spanning numerous genes are rare, despite the potential contribution of consanguinity to such instances. CNVs in the 22q11.2 region are mediated by nonallelic homologous recombination between pairs of low copy repeats (LCRs), from amongst eight LCRs designated A‐H. Heterozygous distal type II deletions (LCR‐E to LCR‐F) have incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity, and can lead to neurodevelopmental issues, minor craniofacial anomalies, and congenital abnormalities. We report siblings with global developmental delay, hypotonia, minor craniofacial anomalies, ocular abnormalities, and minor skeletal issues, in whom chromosomal microarray identified a homozygous distal type II deletion. The deletion was brought to homozygosity as a result of a consanguineous marriage between two heterozygous carriers of the deletion. The phenotype of the children was strikingly more severe and complex than that of the parents. This report suggests that the distal type II deletion harbors a dosage‐sensitive gene or regulatory element, which leads to a more severe phenotype when deleted on both chromosomes.
Developmental and environmental modulation of fecal thyroid hormone levels in wild Assamese macaques (Macaca assamensis)
Authors: Behringer Verena , Heistermann Michael , Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Schülke Oliver , Ostner Julia
Published: June 2023

Thyroid hormones are key modulators of development, as well as mediators of environmental conditions, by regulating developmental processes and metabolism in primates. Hormone measurement in noninvasively collected samples, that is, feces and urine, is a valuable tool for studying the endocrine function of wildlife, and recent studies have demonstrated the feasibility of measuring thyroid hormones in fecal samples of zoo‐housed and wild nonhuman primates. Our study aimed to (i) validate the measurement of immunoreactive fecal total triiodothyronine (IF‐T3) in wild Assamese macaques (Macaca assamensis) and (ii) to investigate its developmental changes and its response to environmental changes, including stress responses, in immature individuals. Fecal samples and environmental parameters were collected from individuals of three social groups of wild Assamese macaques living at Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary, Northeastern Thailand. Our study confirmed the methodological feasibility and biological validity of measuring IF‐T3 in this population. Specifically, the biological validation demonstrated higher IF‐T3 levels in immatures compared to adults, and higher levels in females during late gestation compared to the preconception stage. Our analysis of IF‐T3 levels in developing immature macaques revealed a significant increase with age. Furthermore, we found a positive association between IF‐T3 and immunoreactive fecal glucocorticoid levels, an indicator of the physiological stress response. Neither minimum temperature nor fruit abundance predicted variation in IF‐T3 levels in the immatures. Our findings indicate the possibility for differing effects of climatic factors and food availability on thyroid hormone level changes in immature versus adult animals and in wild compared to experimental conditions. Overall, our study provides the basis for further investigations into the role of thyroid hormones in shaping species‐specific traits, growth, and overall primate development.
Corporal punishment: Why the intentional use of violence against children is still acceptable
Authors: Savage Linda
Published: June 2023

In Australia assaulting another person is a criminal offence. It occurs when one person strikes another person, applying force of any kind either directly or indirectly, without the person's consent. There is an exception. Children are specifically denied legal protection from intentional assaults when it is rebranded as corporal punishment. Successive governments have failed to act to provide children with the same protection from assault as adults despite repeated calls by the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child to prohibit corporal punishment in all settings, and the robust body of evidence of the substantial harm it causes (Gershoff & Grogan‐Kaylor, 2016). This glaring inconsistency in the law, should cause us to question how far we have evolved in our attitudes and treatment of children. In particular just how deeply ingrained are attitudes and prejudices about children that rationalise or justify acts and omissions that harm them, and fail to protect their rights (Childism: Confronting Prejudice Against Children, Yale University Press, 2013). This paper will examine past and contemporary attitudes to children and the narrative that helps explains why policy makers and the community tolerate the use of physical force against children, and why a new narrative is needed.
Endoscopic endonasal recanalization of the obliterated eustachian tube via ureteral stent
Authors: Pool Christopher , Liu George , Yoo Frederick , Garg Rohit , Keschner David
Published: June 2023

Key points

Eustachian tube recanalization is a feasible procedure but additional studies are needed to determine its safety.

Eustachian tube closure can result from different etiologies and can cause severe symptoms.

Ureteral stents have appropriate shape and pliability for placement and long‐term healing.

Multidisciplinary team approach allows for simultaneous endonasal and otologic approaches.
Titanium Salalen Catalyzed Enantioselective Benzylic Hydroxylation
Authors: Wartmann Christina , Nandi Shiny , Neudörfl Jörg‐Martin , Berkessel Albrecht
Published: June 2023

The titanium complex of the cis‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane (cis‐DACH) derived Berkessel‐salalen ligand is a highly efficient and enantioselective catalyst for the asymmetric epoxidation of terminal olefins with hydrogen peroxide (“Berkessel‐Katsuki catalyst”). We herein report that this epoxidation catalyst also effects the highly enantioselective hydroxylation of benzylic C−H bonds with hydrogen peroxide. Mechanism‐based ligand optimization identified a novel nitro‐salalen Ti‐catalyst of the highest efficiency ever reported for asymmetric catalytic benzylic hydroxylation, with enantioselectivities of up to 98 % ee, while overoxidation to ketone is marginal. The novel nitro‐salalen Ti‐catalyst also shows enhanced epoxidation efficiency, as evidenced by e.g. the conversion of 1‐decene to its epoxide in 90 % yield with 94 % ee, at a catalyst loading of 0.1 mol‐% only.
Twisted Diindeno‐Fused Dibenzo[a,h]anthracene Derivatives and their Dianions
Authors: Gu Yanwei , Torchon Herdya S. , Zhu Yikun , Wei Zheng , Schollmeyer Dieter , Wagner Manfred , Ni Yong , Wu Zehua , Wu Hao , Zhou Yazhou , Qiu Zijie , Petrukhina Marina A. , Müllen Klaus
Published: June 2023

We report a facile synthesis of diindeno‐fused dibenzo[a,h]anthracene derivatives (DIDBA‐2Cl, DIDBA‐2Ph, and DIDBA‐2H) with different degrees of non‐planarity using three substituents (chloro, phenyl, and hydrogen) of various sizes. The planarization of their cores, as evidenced by the decreased end‐to‐end torsional angles, was confirmed by X‐ray crystallography. Their enhanced energy gaps with twisting were investigated by a combination of spectroscopic and electrochemical methods with density functional theory, which showed a transition from singlet open‐shell to closed‐shell configuration. Moreover, their doubly reduced states, DIDBA‐2Ph2− and DIDBA‐2H2−, were achieved by chemical reduction. The structures of dianions were identified by X‐ray crystallographic analysis, which elucidated that the electron charging further distorted the backbones. The electronic structure of the dianions was demonstrated by experimental and theoretical approaches, suggesting decreased energy gaps with larger non‐planarity, different from the neutral species.
Beyond Reduction Cocatalysts: Critical Role of Metal Cocatalysts in Photocatalytic Oxidation of Methane with Water**
Authors: Saito Hikaru , Sato Hiromasa , Higashi Taisuke , Sugimoto Toshiki
Published: June 2023

Environmentally sustainable and selective conversion of methane to valuable chemicals under ambient conditions is pivotal for the development of next‐generation photocatalytic technology. However, due to the lack of microscopic knowledge about non‐thermal methane conversion, controlling and modulating photocatalytic oxidation processes driven by photogenerated holes remain a challenge. Here, we report novel function of metal cocatalysts to accept photogenerated holes and dominate selectivity of methane oxidation, which is clearly beyond the conventional concept in photocatalysis that the metal cocatalysts loaded on the surfaces of semiconductor photocatalysts mostly capture photogenerated electrons and dominate reduction reactions exclusively. The novel photocatalytic role of metal cocatalysts was verified by operando molecular spectroscopy combined with real‐time mass spectrometry for metal‐loaded Ga2O3 model photocatalysts under methane and water vapor at ambient temperature and pressure. Our concept of metal cocatalysts that work as active sites for both photocatalytic oxidation and reduction provides a new understanding of photocatalysis and a solid basis for controlling non‐thermal redox reactions by metal‐cocatalyst engineering.
Guidelines in Practice: Prevention of Perioperative Pressure Injury
Authors: Speth Jennifer
Published: June 2023

Immobility and lack of sensation during perioperative procedures increase the risk of patients developing pressure injuries (PIs). Such injuries can cause pain and result in serious infections, thereby leading to increased health care costs. The recently developed AORN “Guideline for prevention of perioperative pressure injury” provides perioperative nurses and leaders with applicable recommendations for preventing these injuries. In addition to a brief overview of a health care facility's interdisciplinary perioperative PI prevention program, this article discusses a variety of concepts related to PI prevention, including prophylactic materials, intraoperative considerations, hand‐over communication, pediatric patient concerns, policies and procedures, quality management, and education. It also provides a pediatric patient–specific scenario that illustrates the implementation of the described recommendations. Perioperative nurses and leaders should review the guideline in its entirety and apply the recommendations to prevent PIs as appropriate for their facility and patient population.
Dual network interpenetrating degradable waterborne polyurethanes with hydrogen bonded cross‐linked modified β‐cyclodextrin hydrophobic cavities
Authors: Fan Yuhui , Song Xin , Liu Li , Zhou Chao , Wu Guangfeng
Published: June 2023

The study gives an investigation on the properties of β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) waterborne polyurethane (WPU) composites with cross‐linked network structure and hydrogen bonding system. The polyurethane films modified with β‐CD/PEG exhibit superior thermal stability and biodegradability, it is capable to be applied to bio‐degradable plastic coatings. To improve the distribution of β‐CD in WPU, the β‐CD was modified by three different molecular weights of polyethylene glycol hydrophile (PEG). Since the chain segments and hydrophilic hydroxyl groups of PEG interact with the hydrophobic cavities and edges of β‐CD to form new complexes, thus enhancing the flexibility and structural integrity of WPU chains and conferring better biological properties. The analysis focuses on the changes of thermal stability and biodegradability after modification. The results indicated that the temperature of maximum thermal weight loss rate (Tmax) of β‐CD/PEG/WPU composites reached 394.1°C and the soft segment glass transition temperature (Tg) was −42.4°C after the introduction of β‐CD/PEG. Both are significantly improved compared to WPU, with degradation rates of 31.2% in lipase PBS solution and 14.8% in soil, and can therefore be better applied to current medical devices and biodegradable coatings, as well as other bio‐environmental areas.
Bisphenol‐A free bio‐based gallic acid amide epoxy thermosets
Authors: Dutta Kalyan , Karak Niranjan
Published: June 2023

Bisphenol‐A (BPA)‐based epoxy thermoset has been used commercially due to its many impressive properties. However, it has toxic effects on human health, and it is obtained from petrochemicals so environmentally friendly bio‐based alternatives to substitute BPA for the synthesis of epoxy resins are essential. In this context, a gallic acid amide was synthesized from renewable gallic acid, and diethanol amine. The epoxy resin of the synthesized amide was obtained by the condensation reaction with epichlorohydrin in an alkaline medium. The synthesized epoxy resin was cured with a combination of two hardeners, aliphatic bio‐based poly(amido amine) and aromatic 2‐aminophenyldisulfide at varying weight percentages. The chemical structure of the synthesized epoxy resin was characterized by FTIR and NMR spectroscopic analyses. The synthesized epoxy thermosets showed a maximum tensile strength of 20.04 MPa along with elongation at break of 62.63%, high impact resistance (>19.3 kJ/m2), high scratch hardness (up to 8.5 kg), and high adhesive strength for metal–metal substrates. Moreover, the thermo‐gravimetric analysis showed good thermostability with an initial degradation temperature of 224°C, while the microbial broth culture test confirmed the biodegradability of the thermosets. Thus, this bio‐based epoxy thermoset could find different potential applications including as a binder for eco‐friendly coatings and paints.
A stochastic model for evaluating the peaks of commodities' returns
Authors: Cerqueti Roy , Mattera Raffaele , Ramponi Alessandro
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a probabilistic model for the evaluation of the peak components of the return of a commodity. The ground of the study lies in the evidence that the spikes in the returns are due to the shocks occurring in the external environment. We follow an approach based on a particular class of point processes—the Spatial Mixed Poisson Processes—by exploiting an invariance property for such a class. The theoretical framework is used for presenting an estimation the procedure of the returns based on the available information. An empirical instance based on different commodities' returns and the abnormal returns of the volatility index as external shocks are presented to motivate our theoretical approach.
Preparation and usage of nanomaterials in biomedicine
Authors: Zhang Yueyang , Ai Lisi , Gong Yongsheng , Jin Yanxia
Published: June 2023

Nanotechnology is one of the most promising and decisive technologies in the world. Nanomaterials, as the primary research aspect of nanotechnology, are quite different from macroscopic materials because of their unique optical, electrical, magnetic, thermal properties, and more robust mechanical properties, which make them play an essential role in the field of materials science, biomedical field, aerospace field, and environmental energy. Different preparation methods for nanomaterials have various physical and chemical properties and are widely used in different areas. In this review, we focused on the preparation methods, including chemical, physical, and biological methods due to the properties of nanomaterials. We mainly clarified the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of different preparation methods. Then, we focused on the applications of nanomaterials in biomedicine, including biological detection, tumor diagnosis, and disease treatment, which provide a development trend and promising prospects for nanomaterials.
Polymeric solid dispersion enhances the equilibrium solubility and oral bioavailability of tegoprazan
Authors: Won Yong‐Hoon , Yang Ji‐Hyun , Hong Sun Ho , Goo Yoon Tae , Lee Sangkil , Choi Young Wook
Published: June 2023

The recently developed water‐insoluble tegoprazan (TPZ) belongs to the biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS) class II group was formulated through solid dispersion (SD) technology. SD formulations of TPZ were prepared using hydroxymethylcellulose (HPMC) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) polymers via the solvent evaporation method. SDs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder x‐ray diffraction (PXRD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In addition, the equilibrium solubility of SDs, in vitro dissolution, and in vivo bioavailability (BA) study in rats were performed. PXRD and DSC revealed that TPZ was successfully transformed to amorphous forms in SDs. The equilibrium solubility was enhanced by 15–18‐fold, and in vitro dissolution was improved by approximately 2.2‐fold. Consequently, the BA of TPZ was increased up to 2.1‐fold. In conclusion, the use of SDs of TPZ using HPMC and PVP are considered a potential strategy to improve the therapeutic effect of TPZ via enhanced dissolution and BA.
Downregulation of CCR5 on brain perivascular macrophages in simian immunodeficiency virus‐infected rhesus macaques
Authors: Hattler Julian B. , Irons Derek L. , Luo Jiangtao , Kim Woong‐Ki
Published: June 2023

Background

C‐C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) is a major coreceptor for Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) cell entry; however, its role in brain pathogenesis is largely understudied. Thus, we sought to examine cell type‐specific protein expression of CCR5 during SIV infection of the brain.

Methods

We examined occipital cortical tissue from uninfected rhesus macaques and SIV‐infected animals with or without encephalitis using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence microscopy to determine the number and distribution of CCR5‐positive cells.

Results

An increase in the number of CCR5+ cells in the brain of SIV‐infected animals with encephalitis was accounted for by increased CD3+CD8+ cells expressing CCR5, but not by increased CCR5+ microglia or perivascular macrophages (PVMs), and a concurrent decrease in the percentage of CCR5+ PVMs was observed. Levels of CCR5 and SIV Gag p28 protein expression were examined on a per‐cell basis, and a significant, negative relationship was established indicating decreased CCR5 expression in productively infected cells. While investigating the endocytosis‐mediated CCR5 internalization as a mechanism for CCR5 downregulation, we found that phospho‐ERK1/2, an indicator of clathrin‐mediated endocytosis, was colocalized with infected PVMs and that macrophages from infected animals showed significantly increased expression of clathrin heavy chain 1.

Conclusions

These findings show a shift in CCR5‐positive cell types in the brain during SIV pathogenesis with an increase in the number of CCR5+ CD8 T cells, and downregulated CCR5 expression on infected PVMs, likely through ERK1/2‐driven, clathrin‐mediated endocytosis.
Weak gluteus maximus and weak iliopsoas with normal gluteus maximus: Two complementary new signs to diagnose lower limb functional weakness
Authors: Sonoo Masahiro , Kanbayashi Takamichi , Kobayashi Shunsuke , Matsuno Hiromasa , Nakayama Takahiro , Imafuku Ichiro , Ando Tetsuo , Fukutake Toshio
Published: June 2023

Background and purpose

The diagnosis of functional neurological disorder should be actively made based on the neurological signs. We described two new complementary signs to diagnose functional weakness of the lower limb, “weak gluteus maximus (weak GM)” and “weak Iliopsoas with normal gluteus maximus (weak iliopsoas with normal GM),” and tested their validity.

Methods

The tests comprised Medical Research Council (MRC) examinations of the iliopsoas and GM in the supine position. We retrospectively enrolled patients with functional weakness (FW) or structural weakness (SW) who presented with weakness of either iliopsoas or GM, or both. Weak GM means that the MRC score of GM is 4 or less. Its complementary sign, weak ilopsoas with normal GM, means that the MRC score of ilopsoas is 4 or less, whereas that of GM is 5.

Results

Thirty‐one patients with FW and 72 patients with SW were enrolled. The weak GM sign was positive in all 31 patients with FW and in 11 patients with SW, that is, 100% sensitivity and 85% specificity. Therefore, the complementary sign, weak iliopsoas with normal GM, was 100% specific for SW.

Discussion

Although 100% should be discounted considering limitations of this study, these signs will likely be helpful in differentiating between FW and SW in the general neurology setting. Downward pressing of the lower limb to the bed in the supine position is interpreted by the patient as an active movement exerted with an effort and might be preferentially impaired in FW.
The significance of programed cell death‐ligand 1 expression in vestibular schwannoma
Authors: Lee Se A , Chin Susie , Jung Shin , Lee Kyung‐Hwa , Moon Kyung‐Sub , Lee Jong Dae
Published: June 2023

Background

The association between programed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) and tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in vestibular schwannoma (VS) has been investigated in a few studies. These published studies report a difference in the PD‐L1 positivity rate in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. We examined PD‐L1 expression and lymphocyte infiltration in patients with VS who had undergone surgical resection and investigated the association between PD‐L1 expression and clinicopathological features.

Methods

The expression of PD‐L1, CD8, and Ki‐67 in 40 VS tissue specimens was investigated using immunohistochemistry, and a clinical review of the patients was performed.

Results

Of the 40 VS samples, 23 (57.5%) were positive for PD‐L1 and 22 (55%) were positive for CD8. No significant differences in age, tumor size, pure‐tone audiometry, speech discrimination, or Ki‐67 expression were observed between patients in the PD‐L1‐positive and PD‐L1‐negative groups. A higher level of CD8‐positive cell infiltration was observed in PD‐L1‐positive tumors than in PD‐L1‐negative tumors.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that PD‐L1 was expressed in VS tissues. Although no correlation was identified between clinical characteristics and PD‐L1 expression, the association between PD‐L1 and CD8 was confirmed. Thus, additional research on targeting PD‐L1 is necessary to improve immunotherapy for VS in the future.
Arginine metabolism key enzymes affect the prognosis of myelodysplastic syndrome by interfering with macrophage polarization
Authors: Ou Yang , Yang Yan , Li Xuefeng , Zhang Xin , Zhao Lei , Yang Chenlu , Wu Yu
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Immune factors contribute to the onset of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Arginine metabolism affects tumor‐associated macrophage (TAM) polarization. This study investigated the infiltration of TAMs and effect of arginine metabolism key enzymes on MDS prognosis.

Methods

We used the GEO (Gene Express Omnibus database) dataset “GSE19429” to analyze and compare metabolism‐associated pathways between MDS patients with excess blasts and those without. The markers of TAMs and arginine metabolism key enzymes, including CD68, iNOS, ARG1 and ASS1 were included in this study. A cohort of 79 patients with acute myeloid leukemia or MDS extracted from GenomicScape's online data mining platform was used to analyze the prognostic significance of the mRNA levels. Fifty‐eight patients with primary MDS admitted to Sichuan University's West China Hospital from 2013 to 2017 were evaluated for protein levels. The coexpression of CD68, iNOS, and ARG1 was investigated using an Opal polychromatic immunofluorescence kit.

Results

The “Arginine and proline metabolism” pathways (padjusted = 0.01) were associated with excess blasts in patients with MDS. In the mRNA expression cohort, patients with low NOS2 (or iNOS) and high ARG1, ASS1, and CD68 expression levels had worse prognosis. Patients with high CD68 (p = 0.01), high iNOS (p < 0.01), low ARG1 (p = 0.01), and negative ASS1 (p = 0.02) protein expression levels had better prognoses. iNOS and ARG1 were coexpressed with CD68 in MDS patients with or without excess blasts, respectively.

Conclusions

Arginine metabolism may contribute to the prognosis of patients with MDS by affecting TAM polarization.
The role of cytoreductive radical prostatectomy and lymph node dissection in bone‐metastatic prostate cancer: A population‐based study
Authors: Zhai Tingshuai , Ma Jinliang , Liu Yi , Li Haitao , Peng Yanli , Guo Wenmin , Jia Jiedong , Wu Xiaolin , Jiang Huanrong , Tian Jun , Wang Dongwen
Published: June 2023

Backgrounds

The role of cytoreductive radical prostatectomy (cRP) for bone‐metastatic prostate cancer (bmPCa) remains controversial. We aimed to figure out whether cRP and lymph node dissection (LND) can benefit bmPCa.

Methods

11,271 PCa patients with bone metastatic burden from 2010 to 2019 were identified using SEER‐Medicare. Overall survival (OS) and cancer‐specific survival (CSS) rates were visualized using Kaplan–Meier plots. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were constructed to examine the effects of cRP and LND on survival, after stratifying to age, prostate specific antigen (PSA), clinical stages, Gleason score, metastatic burden, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy status.

Results

317 PCa patients underwent cRP and cRP was increasingly performed for bmPCa from 2010 (2.2%) to 2019 (3.0%) (p < 0.05). In multi analyses, cRP was predisposed to a better OS or CSS in patients with age < 75, PSA < 98 ng/mL, bone‐only metastatic sites or patients not receiving chemotherapy (all p < 0.05). For the patients undergoing cRP, LND especially extended LND was associated with a better OS or CSS (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

cRP might benefit OS or CSS in young patients with low PSA and bone‐only metastatic sites not receiving chemotherapy. And a clear OS or CSS benefit of LND especially extended LND was observed in patients undergoing cRP.
Cognitive engagement with AI‐enabled technologies and value creation in healthcare
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Vrontis Demetris , Pallonetto Fabiano
Published: June 2023

Despite the potential for artificial intelligence (AI)‐enabled technologies in healthcare, their benefits are limited owing to the numerous challenges of cognitive engagement. This research paper explores the factors of “cognitive engagement with AI‐enabled technologies” and its impact on the customers' benefits and value creation. A mixed‐method study was utilized in the Indian health‐care setup where AI‐based technology is developing. The qualitative findings shed light on the factors of cognitive engagement with AI‐enabled technologies. Grounded on the theories of customer benefit, an integrative framework of customer‐perceived financial, experiential, psychological, and functional benefits, alongside perceived instrumental and terminal values, was developed. The quantitative findings of PLS‐SEM explain the dynamics of the patients' cognitive engagement with AI‐enabled technologies. The results enrich a more nuanced understanding of how the patient benefits of AI applications have different impacts on perceived value. The study concludes with theoretical and practical implications.
Liberatory community college leadership: Education, decolonization, and emancipation
Authors: Bush Edward C. , Buul Abdimalik A. , Breland Byron D. Clift
Published: June 2023

Building from Freire's ideas of liberatory education in the Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Carter G. Woodson's The Mis‐Education of the Negro, and Frantz Fanon's The Wretched of the Earth, we outline a new and audacious approach in this chapter, in hopes that it will better position a more transformative and revolutionary approach for community college leaders to profoundly address the systemic inequities that exist in their colleges. Additionally, we critically examine current notions related to the principal tenets of equity‐minded leadership that are currently couched in anti‐racist frameworks, arguing for the need for leadership approaches rooted instead in liberatory ideas. Current anti‐racist frames are limited and ultimately fall short of producing the type of leadership that will lead to the deep systemic change necessary to dismantle, decolonize, and reconstruct systems that are rooted in institutional racism and colonialism. Our views are shaped both by scholarship and our holistic multifaceted experience. We draw from a variety of our own experiences and knowledge as community college leaders, including serving as college president, chancellor, and faculty, who have worked in rural, urban, and suburban institutions and both private and public and single and multi‐district campuses. Our analysis is rooted in our collective practitioner knowledge and commitment to social justice to examine radical leadership and its impact on campus culture.
Turning points: My journey to lead CCCSE in today's evolving world
Authors: García Linda L.
Published: June 2023

Linda L. García never imagined she would one day lead the Center for Community College Student Engagement (CCCSE). In fact, she never dreamed of earning a doctoral degree. As children, Linda and her siblings constantly heard from their parents—a father who grew up as a migrant worker and a mother who immigrated to the United States from Hualahuises, Mexico—that enrolling in college after high school graduation was the only choice to pursue. Little did she know that people and situations along her journey would become “turning points” that prepared and led her to be the first Latina executive director of CCCSE. In this reflective chapter, Linda shares in detail how those past and current “turning points” continue to guide her in not only leading an organization focused on the student experience, but steering it through a pandemic, a time of social unrest, and an amplified focus on equity.
A case report of Bart syndrome
Authors: Sharif Seyed Amirabbas , Mohammadzadeh Alieh , Heidari Mohammad Mahdi , Por Rasoul Etesam
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Bart syndrome is a rare condition characterized by epidermolysis bullosa (EB), aplasia cutis (AC), and nail abnormalities. Aplasia cutis congenita type VI was first described in 1966 by Bart et al. This article reports a case of Bart syndrome with ear malformation in a male Afghan newborn. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of Bart syndrome reported in an Afghan family.
Selective Electrocatalyzed Reduction of CO2 to Formate by Mononuclear Mo(Diimine)(CO)4 Complexes
Authors: Yin Minyang , Chandy Sruthy K. , Bowers Scott A. , Raghavachari Krishnan , Li Liang‐Shi
Published: June 2023

Electrochemical conversion of CO2 to value‐added products is an attractive approach to mitigating environmental impacts caused by human consumption of fossil fuels. While many molecular complexes have shown excellent selectivity in reducing CO2 to CO, herein we report on mononuclear Mo(Diimine)(CO)4 complexes that can electrocatalyze CO2 reduction to formate with high selectivity. By increasing conjugation size of the diimine ligands we achieved a faradaic efficiency of 93 (±5) % with an overpotential of 0.2 V.
Research trends in the application of big data in smart cities—A literature review
Authors: Abdelrahman Youssef , Hajek Petr , Lubica Hikkerova
Published: June 2023

In this study, we review articles published in academic journals. in the last 5 years at the intersection of big data and the smart city context. Based on a dataset of 192 articles, we use content analysis to identify recent trends and future research directions. The most influential research areas identified include using big data analytics, electric vehicle integration, and citizen‐centric big data, while the most recent research area that emerged is green space. Our results highlight how big data can influence eight different dimensions of smart cities, with smart mobility attracting the most attention from researchers in the application of big data in smart cities. In contrast, smart people and smart economy are the least explored dimensions from this perspective.
A comparison of basic color terms in Mandarin and Spanish
Authors: Xu Mingshan , Zhu Jingtao , Benítez‐Burraco Antonio
Published: June 2023

Basic perceptual abilities are universal, and most people can distinguish between millions of distinct shades. However, languages differ in the set of basic color terms (BCTs) they have. Despite numerous prior studies, the exact number of BCTs in Mandarin (Sino‐Tibetan) and Spanish (Indo‐European) is still debated. In Mandarin, this number varies from 6 to 11, whereas in Spanish there are about 11 or 12 BCTs. Additionally, differences between these two languages can be expected with regard to the differing usage of BCTs in reference to color, as well as the naming strategies used for specifying references. To clarify this, we recruited a group of Mainland Mandarin speakers and a group of Castilian Spanish speakers and assessed them in two related tasks: the list task, in which participants were asked to write down as many color names as they could recall; and the color‐naming task, in which they were asked to name color chips from the Munsell color chart that were presented randomly. Our results suggest that Mandarin has nine BCTs, while Spanish has 12 BCTs. Furthermore, we found that Mandarin speakers use more modified terms and compounds to achieve precise color reference, whereas Spanish speakers rely more on monomorphemic non‐basic terms. Finally, we observed that Mandarin speakers use some colors (gray, blue, and purple) less consistently; although, the color space is partitioned similarly by these two languages. Our results reinforce the view that there are universal constraints on color naming that are compatible with subtle cross‐cultural differences in how colors are used.