bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐ and normal‐protein diets improve body composition and glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes: a randomized trial
Authors: Clina Julianne G. , Sayer R. Drew , Pan Zhaoxing , Cohen Caroline W. , McDermott Michael T. , Catenacci Victoria A. , Wyatt Holly R. , Hill James O.
Published: July 2023

Objective

Weight loss of ≥10% improves glucose control and may remit type 2 diabetes (T2D). High‐protein (HP) diets are commonly used for weight loss, but whether protein sources, especially red meat, impact weight loss‐induced T2D management is unknown. This trial compared an HP diet including beef and a normal‐protein (NP) diet without red meat for weight loss, body composition changes, and glucose control in individuals with T2D.

Methods

A total of 106 adults (80 female) with T2D consumed an HP (40% protein) diet with ≥4 weekly servings of lean beef or an NP (21% protein) diet excluding red meat during a 52‐week weight loss intervention. Body weight, body composition, and cardiometabolic parameters were measured before and after intervention.

Results

Weight loss was not different between the HP (−10.2 ± 1.6 kg) and NP (−12.7 ± 4.8 kg, p = 0.336) groups. Both groups reduced fat mass and increased fat‐free mass percent. Hemoglobin A1c, glucose, insulin, insulin resistance, blood pressure, and triglycerides improved, with no differences between groups.

Conclusions

The lack of observed effects of dietary protein and red meat consumption on weight loss and improved cardiometabolic health suggests that achieved weight loss, rather than diet composition, should be the principal target of dietary interventions for T2D management.
Polymeric micelles as a strategy to enhance the phototoxic efficacy of phenazine photosensitizers
Authors: Vara Jimena , Gualdesi María S. , Aiassa Virginia , Fernández Mariana A. , Ortiz Cristina S.
Published: July 2023

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is a promising therapeutic strategy for treating bacterial infections resistant to conventional antibiotics. In the search for ideal photosensitizers (PSs), we became interested in phenazine compounds, such as Neutral Red (NR) and its halogenated derivative (NRBr). Although they have shown good results in the inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus in their free form, they have some undesirable properties that could be overcome by using drug delivery systems. In this work, we propose the use of polymeric micelles for the development of nanophotosensitizers from Pluronic P123 and F108. The micellar systems developed had a size close to 30–40 nm and allowed us to obtain seven nanophotosensitizers. All of them increased the chemical stability of NRBr and did not modify the stability of NR, which was already stable in buffer solution (pH = 7.4). Furthermore, the Pluronic micelles markedly decreased the aggregation of PSs and increased their photochemical reactivity. The nanophotosensitizers prepared from Pluronic P123 micelles (5% wt/vol) gave the best results and optimized the properties of NR and NRBr. In agreement with that, the new nanophotosensitizers of P123‐5% showed better photodynamic inactivation of NR and NRBr against methicillin resistant S. aureus than the free photosensitizers and the other micellar systems. Both photosensitizers loaded into the P123‐5% eradicated this microorganism using 30 min of irradiation. Therefore, it is concluded that these polymeric micelles are an excellent alternative for the vehiculization of PSs and that their combination with NR and NRBr enhances the photodynamic efficiency for their use in aPDT.
Knowledge graph aids comprehensive explanation of drug and chemical toxicity
Authors: Hao Yun , Romano Joseph D. , Moore Jason H.
Published: July 2023

In computational toxicology, prediction of complex endpoints has always been challenging, as they often involve multiple distinct mechanisms. State‐of‐the‐art models are either limited by low accuracy, or lack of interpretability due to their black‐box nature. Here, we introduce AIDTox, an interpretable deep learning model which incorporates curated knowledge of chemical‐gene connections, gene‐pathway annotations, and pathway hierarchy. AIDTox accurately predicts cytotoxicity outcomes in HepG2 and HEK293 cells. It also provides comprehensive explanations of cytotoxicity covering multiple aspects of drug activity, including target interaction, metabolism, and elimination. In summary, AIDTox provides a computational framework for unveiling cellular mechanisms for complex toxicity endpoints.
English language education and acculturation research: Problematic historical parallels and the path ahead
Authors: Siebold Connie
Published: July 2023

Multilingual education and acculturation research share a parallel history of problematic research paradigms that center the majority viewpoint and view minorities through a lens of deficit. This continual pathology of cultural difference has led to the pathologization of minority individuals, and has hampered our efforts to effectively understand and educate in a nuanced and culturally sensitive manner. In our focus on quantifying stress and deficiency, we have failed to understand emic experiences of joy and agency that can better inform our teaching and research. This article asserts a model of research and teaching that prioritizes narrative reclamation, while developing the concept of acculturative joy as a lens of study.
Prospektive Untersuchung der extrakraniellen Duplexsonographie zum Nachweis des zerebralen Perfusionsstillstands bei Patienten mit irreversiblem Hirnfunktionsausfall
Authors: Lambeck Johann , Strecker Christoph , Niesen Wolf-Dirk , Bardutzky Jürgen
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund

Eine breitere Verfügbarkeit der bettseitig einsetzbaren farbkodierten Duplexsonographie („colour-coded duplex sonography“ [CCD]) zum Nachweis des zerebralen Perfusionsstillstands (ZP) wäre wichtig, um den Einsatz bei der Diagnostik des irreversiblen Hirnfunktionsausfalls (IHA-Dx) zu verbessern.

Fragestellung

Ist die extrakranielle CCD der üblichen transkraniellen CCD der hirnversorgenden Gefäße (ECCD vs. TCCD) zum Nachweis des ZP bei der IHA-Dx bez. Spezifität und Sensitivität gleichwertig?

Material und Methoden

Studienzeitraum 01/19 bis 06/22. Screening von 136, Einschluss von 114 Patienten mit schweren Hirnläsionen > 24 h nach dem Auftreten weiter, lichtstarrer Pupillen, Apnoe und abgeschlossener IHA-Dx. Ausschluss von Patienten ohne Hirnstammareflexie und ohne richtlinienkonforme Einsetzbarkeit der CCD. Ergänzende ECCD (und ggf. TCCD bei Einsatz einer anderen Methode zum Irreversibilitätsnachweis).

Ergebnisse

Feststellung IHA (IHA+) in 86,8 % (99/114), kein IHA (IHA−) in 13,2 % (15/114). Die ECCD war in allen Fällen vollständig durchführbar, in 94/99 IHA+-Fällen fand sich ein zum ZP passender Befund (ECCD+), in 5 Fällen nicht (ECCD−). Alle 15 Patienten mit IHA− zeigten einen ECCD−-Befund. Somit lag die Spezifität der ECCD bei 1,0, die Sensitivität bei 0,949. Die TCCD zeigte in 56 Fällen einen ZP (TCCD+), bei allen fand sich auch ECCD+. Einen inkonklusiven Befund der TCCD bei IHA+ zeigten 38 Fälle, parallel ECCD+ bei all diesen. In 20 Fällen war der TCCD ohne Nachweis des ZP (TCCD−) und auch ECCD−. 15 dieser Patienten waren IHA−, 5 IHA+.

Diskussion

Die TCCD war in einem Drittel der Fälle nicht komplett durchführbar oder inkonklusiv, die ECCD war dagegen immer durchführbar. Die ECCD zeigte eine hohe Validität bez. des Nachweises des ZP. Daher sollte ein alleiniger Einsatz der ECCD zum Nachweis des ZP bei der IHA-Dx diskutiert werden.
Interaction between depth variation and turbulent diffusion in depth-averaged vorticity equations
Authors: Sándor Balázs , Torma Péter , Szabó K. Gábor , Kalmár-Nagy Tamás
Published: July 2023

Steady, depth-averaged, shallow water vorticity transport equations including advection, surface and bed shear stresses, and turbulent diffusion effects are written out in vorticity-velocity and stream function formalisms. The Boussinesq approximation is used to represent turbulent stresses in the effective stress tensor. We consider two different forms of the curl of the effective stress tensor: its complete form and the commonly used form neglecting the terms expressing interaction with variable water depth. After deriving the two equations in vorticity-velocity formalism, we recast the equations into stream function formalism, revealing all the internal effects associated with variable water depth. We examine the differences between the models through analytical solutions of the stream function equations for simple but realistic flows. The solutions are validated with CFD simulations.

Graphical abstract
Autoencoder-enabled model portability for reducing hyperparameter tuning efforts in side-channel analysis
Authors: Krček Marina , Perin Guilherme
Published: July 2023

Hyperparameter tuning represents one of the main challenges in deep learning-based profiling side-channel analysis. For each different side-channel dataset, the typical procedure to find a profiling model is applying hyperparameter tuning from scratch. The main reason is that side-channel measurements from various targets contain different underlying leakage distributions. Consequently, the same profiling model hyperparameters are usually not equally efficient for other targets. This paper considers autoencoders for dimensionality reduction to verify if encoded datasets from different targets enable the portability of profiling models and architectures. Successful portability reduces the hyperparameter tuning efforts as profiling model tuning is eliminated for the new dataset, and tuning autoencoders is simpler. We first search for the best autoencoder for each dataset and the best profiling model when the encoded dataset becomes the training set. Our results show no significant difference in tuning efforts using original and encoded traces, meaning that encoded data reliably represents the original data. Next, we verify how portable is the best profiling model among different datasets. Our results show that tuning autoencoders enables and improves portability while reducing the effort in hyperparameter search for profiling models. Lastly, we present a transfer learning case where dimensionality reduction might be necessary if the model is tuned for a dataset with fewer features than the new dataset. In this case, tuning of the profiling model is eliminated and training time reduced.
Using Waste PET Shreds for Soil Stabilization: Efficiency and Durability Assessment
Authors: Haider Ahmed Basil , Iravanian Anoosheh , Selman Mudhafer Hameed , Ekinci Abdullah
Published: July 2023

Encountering weak fine-grained soil presents a significant challenge during highway construction. The conventional approach to address this challenge involves incorporating calcium-based stabilizers, particularly cement, for stabilization. However, despite its widespread use, the application of cement for soil stabilization has adverse environmental consequences. Accordingly, finding alternative methods to minimize cement usage has become a prominent area of research, from researchers worldwide. This study evaluates the effectiveness of utilizing discarded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle shreds as soil reinforcement alongside lower cement contents. To this end, soil samples were mixed with varied contents of two grades of shredded PET. The ground PET pellets, which displayed diverse shapes, demonstrated properties resembling fibres. Compacted samples were subjected to CBR to determine optimum PET content. Strength, small-strain stiffness and durability of soils in original state, mixed with cement and PET were measured by a programme of CBR, wetting–drying cycles, and ultrasonic pulse experiments. Findings suggest a 28–91% increase in strength of soil upon its mixing with cement—PET shreds. Substituting cement with cement—PET shred led to a drop in accumulated loss of mass (ALM). In twelve cycles of wetting and drying, the small-strain stiffness initially decreased, but then stabilized at approximately the same value in the subsequent cycles. The porosity to binder ratio was adopted as an index for CBR, ALM and the maximum shear modulus. The latter was finally proposed as a measure for durability.
“I am a Child!”: Public Perceptions of Black Girls and their Punitive Consequences
Authors: Nuamah Sally A. , Mulroy Quinn
Published: July 2023

How do race and gender stereotypes affect public support for the punishment of Black girls? Across the USA, Black girls are suspended, expelled, arrested, and detained by educational and criminal justice institutions at disproportionate rates. Despite this, there is little research in political science investigating what drives this phenomenon. This paper uses original survey experimental data to examine how stereotypical public perceptions of Black girls shape support for their punishment and punitive policy more generally. We join previous research in finding race- and gender-based stereotypes intersect to produce a distinctive set of public perceptions rooted in the “adultification” of Black girls. In general, Black girls are seen as acting older than their age, more dangerous to others, and more experienced with sex than their peers. But, in an important extension, we also link these adultification stereotypes to support for harsher punishments for Black girls than for their peers and to support for punitive school policies more generally. Together, these findings point to the importance of understanding the intersectional nature of racialized and gendered public attitudes and help to draw the empirical link between the adultification of Black girls and support for their disproportionate punishment among the American public.
Contrasting seed moisture sorption behaviour between two species and the implication for seed longevity
Authors: Rezaei Shabnam , Buitink Julia , Hay Fiona R.
Published: July 2023

Understanding seed moisture desorption and adsorption isotherms is important for seed quality maintenance and better predicting seed storage lifespan. Freshly harvested oilseed rape and barley seeds were dried and then rehydrated twice. Seed equilibrium relative humidity (eRH) and moisture content (MC) were determined at different humidity levels so that two cycles of desorption and adsorption could be constructed. In addition, seeds were dried to 30% RH and then rehydrated to 50% RH for five cycles to determine whether they shift to the adsorption isotherm. Monolayer MC was determined using the Gugenheim-Anderson-de Boer model. Storage experiments were conducted for seeds equilibrated at 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70% RH for two cycles of desorption and adsorption at 45°C. Isotherm curves’ shapes were similar for oilseed rape and barley, although spanning a greater MC range in barley. The hysteresis effect was observed for oilseed rape and barley seeds when dried over silica gel at <10% RH. However, this effect was only observed for barley seeds when dried to 30% RH, but not for oilseed rape seeds. Longevity was greater for adsorbing seeds than desorbing seeds at a given eRH, however, there was no significant difference in σ (the standard deviation of the normal distribution of seed deaths over time)–MC log–log relationship. The relationship shifted for seeds on the second cycle. In conclusion, if seed lots are stored at a specific RH, reaching equilibrium by desorption or adsorption can strongly influence their longevity. Also, when seeds of different species are dried to low RH, they will respond differently to a subsequent increase in RH, which could profoundly affect their longevity.
High-performance hybrid nanogenerator for self-powered wireless multi-sensing microsystems
Authors: Wen Dan-Liang , Huang Peng , Deng Hai-Tao , Zhang Xin-Ran , Wang Yi-Lin , Zhang Xiao-Sheng
Published: July 2023

Wireless sensor network nodes are widely used in wearable devices, consumer electronics, and industrial electronics and are a crucial component of the Internet of Things (IoT). Recently, advanced power technology with sustainable energy supply and pollution-free characteristics has become a popular research focus. Herein, to realize an unattended and reliable power supply unit suitable for distributed IoT systems, we develop a high-performance triboelectric-electromagnetic hybrid nanogenerator (TEHNG) to harvest mechanical energy. The TEHNG achieves a high load power of 21.8 mW by implementing improvements of material optimization, configuration optimization and pyramid microstructure design. To realize a self-powered integrated microsystem, a power management module, energy storage module, sensing signal processing module, and microcontroller unit are integrated into the TEHNG. Furthermore, an all-in-one wireless multisensing microsystem comprising the TEHNG, the abovementioned integrated functional circuit and three sensors (temperature, pressure, and ultraviolet) is built. The milliwatt microsystem operates continuously with the TEHNG as the only power supply, achieving self-powered operations of sensing environmental variables and transmitting wireless data to a terminal in real time. This shows tremendous application potential in the IoT field.
A biomimetic closed-loop recyclable, long-term durable, extreme-condition resistant, flame-retardant nanocoating synthesized by reversible flocculation assembly
Authors: Zhang Jiayan , Zeng Furong , Liu Bowen , Wang Zihao , Lin Xincen , Zhao Haibo , Wang Yuzhong
Published: July 2023

A biomimetic recyclable and durable flame-retardant coating was enabled by reversible flocculation assembly to be stable in various complex application environments and be easily achieved for recyclability under pH stimulation.
Environmental Problems and Entrepreneurship in the Region
Authors: Dzobelova Valentina B. , Grabovy Kirill P. , Belinskaya Darya Borisovna
Published: July 2023

Ensuring environmental protection, rational use and reproduction of natural resources is one of the key constitutionally significant benefits that form the basis of long-term socio-economic development, determine the material basis for the development of future generations. The solution to this problem can be achieved through various tools, in particular through the development of an environmentally oriented business. This article discusses the key features of environmental entrepreneurship at the regional level.
Prescription Practices and Outcome Analysis of PICU Patients at a Newly Established Tertiary Care Hospital—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Chalissery Leo Francis , Eerike Madhavi , Samprati Madhusudan , Reddy Mounika , Elango Chandru , Ramanna Kalpana Mali , Gupta Jhilmil
Published: July 2023

Prescription analysis studies play a crucial role in monitoring prescription patterns and establishing guidelines for effective drug delivery and health care management. Given the physiological differences between the pediatric and adult populations, it is essential to analyze the prescription records specifically for pediatric patients, considering their unique diseases, drugs, and dosages. The objectives of this study were to analyze the prescribing patterns of drugs, rationality, outcomes, and antimicrobial use and drugs from National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients. A retrospective study design was employed, and data were collected from medical records, including demographic information, diagnoses, drug details, and treatment outcomes of PICU patients. The collected data were then analyzed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) indicators for rational drug use, WHO Access, Watch, and Reserve (AWaRe) guidelines for antimicrobial use, and the proportion of essential drugs prescribed. Descriptive statistics was used to express the data in this study. A total of 184 patient records were analyzed, with 57.6% were males. On average, 4.5 drugs were prescribed per prescription, with injections and syrups comprising nearly 28% each. Approximately 71.5% of prescriptions contained generic drug names. Furthermore, 49% of the prescribed drugs were listed in the NLEM. Antibiotics were present in 50% of the prescriptions, with 50% of them falling under the WHO AWaRe Watch category and 31% in Access category. Majority of the drugs being prescribed in the PICU were with generic names, and less than half the prescriptions contained antibiotics. Watch class of antibiotics was most commonly prescribed.
Gramsci’s ‘Southern Question’ and Egypt’s authoritarian retrenchment: subalternity and the disruption of activist agency
Authors: Gervasio Gennaro , Teti Andrea
Published: July 2023

Explanations of the authoritarian retrenchment after Egypt’s 2011 Revolution invoke either the regime’s repressive advantage over ‘leaderless’ mobilisation and civic activists, or insufficient preparations and radicalism on the part of opposition groups. Both explanations are unsatisfactory. First, because despite being ‘reformist’, opposition groups’ demands were perceived as radical challenges to regimes before, during and after the uprisings. Second, because appeals to regimes’ coercive capacity contradict explanations of opponents’ rise to prominence before the uprisings: if activists eroded Egypt’s authoritarian regime before 2011, what made them unable to continue doing so afterwards? Conversely, if activists’ agency was effective before 2011 despite gross imbalances in coercive capacity, then those imbalances alone cannot explain activists’ post-revolutionary decline. In short, if activists’ agency cannot be denied before Egypt’s ‘eighteen days’, it must be accounted for in their aftermath. To do this, the authors draw on Gramsci’s original texts and Italian-language scholarship to develop his neglected notion of disgregazione.
Cubic ice observed in pure form for the first time
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: July 2023

An unusual phase of ice that may be responsible for a spectacular atmospheric effect called a Scheiner’s halo has been observed in its pure form for the first time.
Lawsuit hits US aviation watchdog
Authors: Gwynne Peter
Published: July 2023

US environmental groups sue the US Federal Aviation Administration following the failed launch of SpaceX’s Starship craft, as Peter Gwynne reports.
A quantum boom
Authors: Durrani Matin
Published: July 2023

Quantum technology is rapidly becoming a mainstream business activity.
Towards a quantum internet
Authors: Carwright Jon
Published: July 2023

Could we ever send data with complete security and secrecy online? Jon Cartwright taps into the latest developments towards a “quantum internet”.
Reactant enrichment in hollow void of Pt NPs@MnOx nanoreactors for boosting hydrogenation performance
Authors: Ma Yanfu , Wang Liwei , Zhao Wantong , Liu Tianyi , Li Haitao , Luo Wenhao , Jiang Qike , Liu Wei , Yang Qihua , Huang Jun , Zhang Riguang , Liu Jian , Lu G Q Max , Li Can
Published: July 2023

In confined mesoscopic spaces, the unraveling of a catalytic mechanism with complex mass transfer and adsorption processes such as reactant enrichment is a great challenge. In this study, a hollow nanoarchitecture of MnOx-encapsulated Pt nanoparticles was designed as a nanoreactor to investigate the reactant enrichment in a mesoscopic hollow void. By employing advanced characterization techniques, we found that the reactant-enrichment behavior is derived from directional diffusion of the reactant driven through the local concentration gradient and this increased the amount of reactant. Combining experimental results with density functional theory calculations, the superior cinnamyl alcohol (COL) selectivity originates from the selective adsorption of cinnamaldehyde (CAL) and the rapid formation and desorption of COL in the MnOx shell. The superb performance of 95% CAL conversion and 95% COL selectivity is obtained at only 0.5 MPa H2 and 40 min. Our findings showcase that a rationally designed nanoreactor could boost catalytic performance in chemoselective hydrogenation, which can be of great aid and potential in various application scenarios.
Viral Determinants of Acute COVID-19 Symptoms in a Nonhospitalized Adult Population in the Pre-Omicron Era
Authors: Goldberg Sarah A , Lu Scott , Garcia-Knight Miguel , Davidson Michelle C , Tassetto Michel , Anglin Khamal , Pineda-Ramirez Jesus , Chen Jessica Y , Rugart Paulina R , Mathur Sujata , Forman Carrie A , Donohue Kevin C , Abedi Glen R , Saydah Sharon , Briggs-Hagen Melissa , Midgley Claire M , Andino Raul , Peluso Michael J , Glidden David V , Martin Jeffrey N , Kelly J Daniel
Published: July 2023

Background

The influence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA level and presence of infectious virus on symptom occurrence is poorly understood, particularly among nonhospitalized individuals.

Methods

The study included 85 nonhospitalized, symptomatic adults, who were enrolled from September 2020 to November 2021. Data from a longitudinal cohort studied over 28 days was used to analyze the association of individual symptoms with SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA load, or the presence or level of infectious (culturable) virus. Presence of infectious virus and viral RNA load were assessed daily, depending on specimen availability, and amount of infectious virus was assessed on the day of maximum RNA load. Participants were surveyed for the start and end dates of 31 symptoms at enrollment and at days 9, 14, 21, and 28; daily symptom presence was determined analytically. We describe symptoms and investigate their possible association with viral determinants through a series of single or pooled (multiple days across acute period) cross-sectional analyses.

Results

There was an association between viral RNA load and the same-day presence of many individual symptoms. Additionally, individuals with infectious virus were more than three times as likely to have a concurrent fever than individuals without infectious virus, and more than two times as likely to have concurrent myalgia, chills, headache, or sore throat.

Conclusions

We found evidence to support the association of viral RNA load and infectious virus on some, but not all symptoms. Fever was most strongly associated with the presence of infectious virus; this may support the potential for symptom-based isolation guidance for COVID-19.
Medium chain length polyhydroxyalkanoates as potential matrix materials for peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Nigmatullin Rinat , Taylor Caroline S , Basnett Pooja , Lukasiewicz Barbara , Paxinou Alexandra , Lizarraga-Valderrama Lorena R , Haycock John W , Roy Ipsita
Published: July 2023

Polyhydroxyalkanoates are natural, biodegradable, thermoplastic and sustainable polymers with a huge potential in fabrication of bioresorbable implantable devices for tissue engineering. We describe a comparative evaluation of three medium chain length polyhydroxyalkanoates (mcl-PHAs), namely poly(3-hydroxyoctanoate), poly(3-hydroxyoctanoate-co-3-hydoxydecanoate) and poly(3-hydroxyoctanoate-co-3-hydroxydecanoate-co-3-hydroxydodecanoate), one short chain length polyhydroxyalkanoate, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), P(3HB) and synthetic aliphatic polyesters (polycaprolactone and polylactide) with a specific focus on nerve regeneration, due to mechanical properties of mcl-PHAs closely matching nerve tissues. In vitro biological studies with NG108-15 neuronal cell and primary Schwann cells did not show a cytotoxic effect of the materials on both cell types. All mcl-PHAs supported cell adhesion and viability. Among the three mcl-PHAs, P(3HO-co-3HD) exhibited superior properties with regards to numbers of cells adhered and viable cells for both cell types, number of neurite extensions from NG108-15 cells, average length of neurite extensions and Schwann cells. Although, similar characteristics were observed for flat P(3HB) surfaces, high rigidity of this biomaterial, and FDA-approved polymers such as PLLA, limits their applications in peripheral nerve regeneration. Therefore, we have designed, synthesized and evaluated these materials for nerve tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, the interaction of mcl-PHAs with neuronal and Schwann cells, identifying mcl-PHAs as excellent materials to enhance nerve regeneration and potentially their clinical application in peripheral nerve repair.
Femoral head reduction osteotomy for the treatment of late sequela of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease and Perthes-like femoral head deformities
Authors: Eltayeby Hady H. , El-Adwar Khaled Loutfy , Ahmed Amin Abdelrazek , Mosa Mena Micheal , Standard Shawn C.
Published: July 2023

Femoral head reduction osteotomy (FHRO) was described to treat misshapen femoral head that is causing intraarticular hip pain. The published literature showed discrepancies in patient selection, surgical techniques, and decision to perform concurrent acetabular osteotomy. Very few studies used Standardized Outcome Measures (SOMs). This study aims to describe the technique of FHRO and report the results of our series of 22 patients using SOMs and compare them to former peer-reviewed articles. Twenty-two hips in 22 patients with hip pain caused by mishshapen femoral were treated with FHRO with or without triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO). Patients with poor hip range of motion and significant hip joint arthritis were excluded. The mean patient age was 15.8 (range, 9.2–23.9). Clinical results were reported using the HHS. Radiographical results were reported by comparing Lateral Center Edge Angle (LCEA), extrusion index, Tonnis angle, head size percent, sphericity index, and distance from tip of trochanter to center of femoral head. The mean follow-up was 3.2 years. Only 5 patients received TPO. The HHS showed statistical improvement from 62.0 to 81.6 (The median interquartile range 63.5–88.5). Five patients had HHS less than 70 at the latest follow up. All radiographic parameters except the Tonnis angle, showed statistically significant improvement. FHRO with or without pelvic osteotomy is a good salvage procedure for patients presenting with misshapen femoral head with intraarticular hip pain, who still have good preoperative ROM with no signs of hip arthritis. Level of evidence: IV.
Treatment Strategies and Prognostic Factors in Secondary Central Nervous System Lymphoma: A Multicenter Study of 124 Patients
Authors: Treiber Hannes , Nilius-Eliliwi Verena , Seifert Nicole , Vangala Deepak , Wang Meng , Seidel Sabine , Mika Thomas , Marschner Dominik , Zeremski Vanja , Wurm-Kuczera Rebecca , Caillé Leandra , Chapuy Claudia I. , Trümper Lorenz , Fischer Thomas , Altenbuchinger Michael , Wulf Gerald G. , Illerhaus Gerald , Dietrich Sascha , Schroers Roland , Chapuy Björn
Published: July 2023

Secondary central nervous system lymphoma (SCNSL) is a rare and difficult to treat type of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by systemic and central nervous system (CNS) disease manifestations. In this study, 124 patients with SCNSL intensively treated and with clinical long-term follow-up were included. Initial histopathology, as divided in low-grade, other aggressive, and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), was of prognostic significance. Overall response to induction treatment was a prognostic factor with early responding DLBCL-SCNSL in comparison to those non-responding experiencing a significantly better progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). However, the type of induction regime was not prognostic for survival. Following consolidating high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (HDT-ASCT), DLBCL-SCNSL patients had better median PFS and OS. The important role of HDT-ASCT was further highlighted by favorable responses and survival of patients not responding to induction therapy and by excellent results in patients with de novo DLBCL-SCNSL (65% long-term survival). SCNSL identified as a progression of disease within 6 months of initial systemic lymphoma presentation represented a previously not appreciated subgroup with particularly dismal outcome. This temporal stratification model of SCNSL diagnosis revealed CNS progression of disease within 6 months as a promising candidate prognosticator for future studies.
THE ALARMIN EFFECT OF HMGB1/RIP3 ON TRANSFUSION-RELATED ACUTE LUNG INJURY VIA TLR4/NF-ΚB OR MAPK PATHWAY
Authors: Liu Shuangchun , Lin Ronghai , Zhang Xianchao , Lv Yinyi , Zhu Jie , Chen Guang , Du Yunting
Published: July 2023

Nonantibody-mediated transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) may account for up to 25% of TRALI cases. This indicates the need for further research to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms involved beyond antibody mediation fully. During this research, a TRALI rat model was developed using the trauma-blood loss-massive transfusion method. The severity of pulmonary edema was checked via measurement of lung histopathological changes and the amount of Evans blue dye fluid and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid protein leakage. In addition, potential mechanisms of pathophysiological pathways and inflammation cascades were investigated in TRALI rats in vivo. The findings indicated that TRALI increased inflammatory cytokines and triggered elevated levels of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)/receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIP3), apoptosis protein, and mRNAs in the TM (TRALI model) group as opposed to the normal control. Furthermore, TRALI activated the toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, which partially regulated the inflammatory response in the TRALI rats. A significant increase was observed in the inflammatory mediators HMGB1 and RIP3 during the early stages of TRALI, suggesting that these mediators could be used as diagnostic markers for TRALI. In addition, HMGB1 and RIP3 promoted the inflammatory response by stimulating the toll-like receptor 44/nuclear factor kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways in the lung tissue of rats. Identifying efficient agents from inflammatory mediators such as alarmin can be an innovative scheme for diagnosing and preventing TRALI. These findings give HMGB1 and RIP3 a strong theoretical and experimental foundation for clinical use.
Mu-opioid receptor-dependent changes in social reward across adolescence in mice
Authors: Harda Zofia , Klimczak Marta , Misiołek Klaudia , Chrószcz Magdalena , Szumiec Łukasz , Kaczmarczyk-Jarosz Maria , Ryguła Rafał , Ziółkowska Barbara , Parkitna Jan Rodriguez
Published: July 2023

In humans, adolescence is a time of dynamic behavioral changes, including a transient decrease in affect associated with being among family members. Here, we found that the reward value of interactions with siblings in adolescent male mice followed a similar course to that in humans: high in preadolescence, a decrease in mid-adolescence and a return to the initial level in late adolescence, as observed in the social conditioned place preference task. The observed change was specific to social interaction, as the rewarding effect of cocaine was actually increased during mid-adolescence. Strikingly, treatment with a selective mu-opioid receptor antagonist, cyprodime, increased socially conditioned place preference in mid-adolescent mice, but not in older animals. Taken together, these data show similarities between mice and humans in developmental changes in sensitivity to the rewarding effects of interactions with familiar kin and demonstrate the involvement of endogenous opioid signaling in shaping adolescent social behavior.
Investigating the effect of POPC-POPG Lipid Bilayer Composition on PAP248-286 Binding using CG Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Agrawal Nikhil , Parisini Emilio
Published: July 2023

PAP248-286 is a fusogenic peptide derived from prostatic acid phosphatase, commonly found in human semen, and is known to mediate HIV fusion with cell membranes. In this study, we performed 120 independent coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the spontaneous binding of PAP248-286 monomers, considering both charged and neutral histidine (His) residues, to membrane bilayers composed of different lipid compositions: 100% POPC, 70% POPC-30% POPG, and 50% POPC-50% POPG. Our simulations revealed that PAP248-286 displayed spontaneous binding to the membrane, with increased binding observed in the presence of anionic lipid POPG. Specifically, in systems containing 30% and 50% POPG lipids, monomer residues, particularly in the systems containing charged histidine (His) residues, exhibited prolonged binding with the membrane. Furthermore, our simulations indicated that PAP248-286 adopted a parallel orientation with the membrane, exposing its positively charged residues to the lipid bilayer. Interestingly, systems containing charged His residues showed higher lipid occupancy around the peptide. These findings are consistent with previous experimental data, suggesting that PAP248-286 binding is enhanced in membranes with charged His residues, resembling the conditions found in the acidic vaginal pH environment. The results of our study provide further insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the membrane binding of PAP248-286, contributing to our understanding of its potential role in HIV fusion and infection.
Synthesis, optical properties and crystal structure of (E,E)-1,3-(3,4:9,10-dibenzododeca-1,11-diene-5,7-diyne-1,12-diyl)benzene
Authors: Watanabe Hikaru , Sato Takuma , Sumita Michiki , Shiroyama Mei , Sugawara Daichi , Tokuyama Tomoki , Okuda Yasuhiro , Wakamatsu Kan , Akashi Haruo , Orita Akihiro
Published: July 2023

The dehydrobenzannulene (E,E)-1,3-(3,4:9,10-dibenzododeca-1,11-diene-5,7-diyne-1,12-diyl)benzene, C26H16, was successfully synthesized via photocatalyst-assisted stereoselective reductive desulfonylation of 1,3-bis{1-phenylsulfonyl-2-[2-(trimethylsilylethynyl)phenyl]ethenyl}benzene, C44H42O4S2Si2, and subsequent desilylative cyclization of the resulting (E,E)-bis-silyl-protected dienyne, C32H34Si2. The structure of the dehydrobenzannulene thus obtained was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray analysis; three benzene rings are connected to one another by a 1,3-butadiynylene and a pair of ethenylene arrays. Although the π-system expanded efficiently in the dehydrobenzannulene, it was observed that the butadiynylene and ethenylene arrays were strained, showing smaller [171.3 (2)–172.6 (2) °] and larger bond angles [122.5 (2)–131.9 (2)°] than the conventional bond angles, respectively. In CHCl3, the dehydrobenzannulene showed the longest absorption band at 377 nm. When irradiated by UV light, it emitted fluorescence at 468 nm (ΦF = 0.26) and 504 nm (ΦF = 0.24) in CHCl3 and in the powdered state, respectively.
Unlocking agility: Trapped in the antagonism between co-innovation in digital platforms, business analytics capability and external pressure for AI adoption?
Authors: Arias-Pérez José , Chacón-Henao Juliana , López-Zapata Esteban
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Digital technology is increasingly important in enhancing organizational agility (OA). Institutional theory and resource-based view were harmonized to analyze firms' adoption of digital technologies. However, previous studies on OA have revealed that external pressures imply the imposition of barriers or technological standards that ultimately restrict OA. This study employs this double theoretical lens to investigate the mediation role of business analytics capability (BAC) in the relationship between co-innovation (CO), i.e. open innovation in digital platforms, and OA, as well as the negative moderating effect of external pressure for artificial intelligence adoption (EPAIA) on this mediation.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling was used to test the moderated mediation with survey data from 229 firms.

Findings

The main result indicates that 72% of OA variance is explained by the effect of CO that is transmitted by the mediator (BAC). However, contrary to the authors' expectations, EPAIA only has a positive moderating effect along the path between BAC and OA.

Originality/value

This work contradicts the prevalent notion of the negative consequences of external pressures for artificial intelligence adoption. Specifically, this study's findings refute the notion that institutional pressures are the source of technical problems that disrupt CO and BAC integration and reduce OA. In contrast, the unexpectedly positive effect of EPAIA may indicate that this type of external pressure can be viewed as a significant sign and an opportunity for the company to adopt the industry's most advanced and effective digital transformation practices.
Igniting innovative: how transformational leadership and job crafting empower innovative among Iraqi nurses in public hospitals
Authors: Alwali Joather
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to study the effect of transformational leadership (TL) and job crafting (JC) on nurses’ innovative work behaviors (IWB) while accounting for the mediating effect of psychological empowerment (PsyEmp).

Design/methodology/approach

To test the developed hypotheses quantitatively, two statistical methods were used: structural equation modeling via partial least squares and bootstrapping estimation. The survey elicited responses from 270 nurses, but after data screening, only 168 were used. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to establish the distinctness of the variables used in this study.

Findings

Findings indicate that there are a positive influence of both TL and JC on PsyEmp. Additionally, the findings show a beneficial effect of PsyEmp as a mediator between TL, JC and IWB.

Originality/value

This study adds to the body of knowledge by demonstrating the effects of nurse TL and JC on nurses’ PsyEmp and IWB. In addition to the role of PsyEmp as a partial mediator in the relationship between TL, JC and IWB. The research novelty resides in the fact that none of these links has before been studied in the context of Iraq.
An integrated approach to explore the barriers to lean manufacturing in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: implications for sustainability
Authors: Salman Sheak , Ahmed Tazim , Taqi Hasin Md. Muhtasim , Frederico Guilherme F. , Dip Amit Sarker , Ali Syed Mithun
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The apparel industry of Bangladesh is rethinking lean manufacturing (LM) deployment because of the challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to COVID-19, LM implementation in the apparel industry has become more difficult. Thus, the purpose of this study is to explore the barriers to implementing LM practices in the apparel industry of Bangladesh in the context of COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

For evaluating the barriers, an integrated framework that combines the Delphi method and fuzzy total interpretive structural modeling (TISM) has been designed. The application of fuzzy TISM has resulted in a structured hierarchical relationship model of the barriers with driving and driven power.

Findings

The findings reveal that “lack of synchronization of lean planning with strategic planning”, “lack of proper understanding of lean concept” and “low priority from the top management” are the three top most important barriers of LM implementation in apparel industry.

Practical implications

These findings will help the apparel industry to formulate strategy for implementing the LM practices successfully. The proposed model is expected to contribute to the sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12); Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8); Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9) via resilient strategies.

Originality/value

This study is one of few initial efforts to investigate LM implementation barriers during the COVID-19 epidemic in a real-world setting.
The dance of dependence: a macro-perspective on financial instability and its complex influence on the Euro-American green markets
Authors: Gaies Brahim , Chaâbane Najeh
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study adopts a new macro-perspective to explore the complex and dynamic links between financial instability and the Euro-American green equity market. Its primary focus and novelty is to shed light on the non-linear and asymmetric characteristics of dependence, causality, and contagion within various time and frequency domains. Specifically, the authors scrutinize how financial instability in the U.S. and EU interacts with their respective green stock markets, while also examining the cross-impact on each other's green equity markets. The analysis is carried out over short-, medium- and long-term horizons and under different market conditions, ranging from bearish and normal to bullish.

Design/methodology/approach

This study breaks new ground by employing a model-free and non-parametric approach to examine the relationship between the instability of the global financial system and the green equity market performance in the U.S. and EU. This study's methodology offers new insights into the time- and frequency-varying relationship, using wavelet coherence supplemented with quantile causality and quantile-on-quantile regression analyses. This advanced approach unveils non-linear and asymmetric causal links and characterizes their signs, effectively distinguishing between bearish, normal, and bullish market conditions, as well as short-, medium- and long-term horizons.

Findings

This study's findings reveal that financial instability has a strong negative impact on the green stock market over the medium to long term, in bullish market conditions and in times of economic and extra-economic turbulence. This implies that green stocks cannot be an effective hedge against systemic financial risk during periods of turbulence and euphoria. Moreover, the authors demonstrate that U.S. financial instability not only affects the U.S. green equity market, but also has significant spillover effects on the EU market and vice versa, indicating the existence of a Euro-American contagion mechanism. Interestingly, this study's results also reveal a positive correlation between financial instability and green equity market performance under normal market conditions, suggesting a possible feedback loop effect.

Originality/value

This study represents pioneering work in exploring the non-linear and asymmetric connections between financial instability and the Euro-American stock markets. Notably, it discerns how these interactions vary over the short, medium, and long term and under different market conditions, including bearish, normal, and bullish states. Understanding these characteristics is instrumental in shaping effective policies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including access to clean, affordable energy (SDG 7), and to preserve the stability of the international financial system.
Environmental certifications and customer satisfaction: evidence from kindergartens
Authors: Utgård Jakob
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study whether environmental certifications increase customer satisfaction in kindergartens, and whether this relationship is influenced by kindergarten size or ownership type.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from a parental satisfaction survey in Norwegian kindergartens is combined with data on environmental certifications (n = 2033–3270 kindergartens over 7 years, approximately 11% certified). Regression models with extensive controls are used to test the relationships.

Findings

The main pooled cross-sectional regression and all panel data regression models show no significant relationships between environmental certification and customer satisfaction. Organizational size or ownership type (for-profit/non-profit) does not moderate the relationship.

Research limitations/implications

Environmental certifications have little or no impact on customer satisfaction in this sample of kindergartens.

Originality/value

The study contributes by examining the effects of environmental certifications on customer satisfaction in kindergartens, a little studied topic and a sector, and by using a large sample, secondary data and panel data methods, avoiding some limitations in earlier research.