bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tunable luminescence from Bi3+ sensitized La2Zr2O7:Eu3+ red nanophosphors for display applications
Authors: Naveen Kumar Basina Veera , Venkata Rao Kankanala , Basha Shaik Esub , Nirmal Rajeev Yerramala , Ramachandra Rao Kokkirapati , Cole Sandhya
Published: September 2022

Bismuth ion (Bi3+) sensitized, europium ion (Eu3+) activated La2Zr2O7 nanophosphors are prepared successfully by simple wet chemical method. Strong blue emission of singly doped La2Zr2O7 with Bi3+ was observed at 310 nm excitation, its wide emission spectrum has a peak maximum at 465 nm ascribed to electronic transition 3P1 → 1S0 of Bi3+. The recorded photoluminescence spectra of y at% Eu3+ codoped La2Zr2O7, when excited at 285 nm, the emission spectrum exhibits maximum peaks at wavelength values 615 nm, 646 nm and 665 nm which are ascribed to 5D0 → 7F2, 5D0 → 7F3 and 5D0 → 7F4 transitions of Eu3+ respectively. The chromaticity coordinates for the optimized sample were found to be (0.519, 0.329). Sensitizing with Bi3+ can affect the luminescence properties of La2Zr2O7:Eu3+ phosphors. With reference to the change in Eu3+ concentration from Y  = 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5%, color tunable luminescence from blue to orange, red of La2Zr2O7:Bi3+,Eu3+ phosphors are observed. The lifetime decay values, energy level description and CIE chromatic color coordinates for Bi3+, Eu3+ in La2Zr2O7:Bi3+,Eu3+ codoped sample was discussed. The spectral overlap between sensitizer, activator ions confirms the efficient energy transfer from Bi3+ to Eu3+ in La2Zr2O7:Bi3+,Eu3+ codoped sample and is via a dipole‐quadruple mechanism.
Bioanalysis of trifluoperazine in human plasma by LC–MS/MS: Application to disposition kinetics
Authors: Bezawada Viritha , Mogili Padma , Dodda Sireesha , Gajula Ramakrishna , Ponnada Suhasini
Published: September 2022

A sensitive, selective and rapid bioanalytical method using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry has been developed for the quantification of trifluoperazine in human plasma. Trifluoperazine‐D8 was used as the internal standard and the extraction from human plasma was performed by liquid–liquid extraction technique using tertiary butyl methyl ether as the solvent. Chromatographic separation was carried out on Zodiac C18 column (50 × 4.6 mm, 3 μm) employing a mixture of acetonitrile, methanol and 5 mm ammonium bicarbonate buffer in water (85:10:5, v/v/v) at a flow rate of 0.55 ml/min. The linearity was established within the concentration range of 5–1,250 pg/ml with r2 > 0.99. The results of all of the validation parameters as per the US Food and Drug Administration guidelines were within the acceptance limits. The pharmacokinetics of trifluoperazine after oral administration of a syrup of 1 mg dose under fasting conditions was determined by successful application of the present method.
Convergence towards a digitalized bioeconomy—Exploring cross‐industry merger and acquisition activities between the bioeconomy and the digital economy
Authors: Rennings Michael , Burgsmüller Anna Pina Farina , Bröring Stefanie
Published: September 2022

Great importance is attributed to a transition towards a bioeconomy regime. The bioeconomy can foster more sustainable production and consumption systems and therefore contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This transition is facing several inhibitors, such as dysfunctional communication between different actors and insufficient innovative activity. Scholars and practitioners consider coupling technological developments between the bioeconomy and the digital economy as a driving‐force to accelerate the transition towards a bioeconomy and bring solutions to major inhibitors. In this paper, we therefore seek to better understand how and if the bioeconomy and the digital economy converge to create the needed momentum and capture the full potential. Whereas the increasing number of scientific papers highlight benefits of digital technologies for the bioeconomy, our analyses of merger and acquisitions reveal tendencies of an initial blurring of boundaries between both, bioeconomy and digital economy market boundaries. Still, bioeconomy companies acquire digital companies to a greater extend indicating high benefit of implementing digital technologies within the bioeconomy. Our results contribute to the extant body of convergence research by implementing convergence indicators in a new case study as well as coupling transition theory and convergence literature. Both literature bodies support the better understanding of the transition towards a knowledge‐based digital economy as transition theory describes the path to a new digital bioeconomy regime created by cross‐sectoral convergence.
Factors affecting green purchase behavior: A systematic literature review
Authors: Sharma Kavita , Aswal Chandni , Paul Justin
Published: September 2022

The worldwide increased consumption of goods and services squeezes natural resources, thus causing severe damage to the environment. In the backdrop of the growing affirmative reaction of people, the inclination to buy green products is on the rise. Therefore, we explore the extant literature to identify the factors established for their role in determining the purchase of products having a less damaging impact on the environment. A systematic literature review was conducted following the Theory‐Context‐Characteristics‐Methodology framework covering 151 empirical studies on green purchase intention and green purchase behavior, published between years 2000 and 2021. This paper identifies factors influencing consumers' green purchase intention and green purchase behavior and provides strategic insights to marketers to create better marketing opportunities for green products.
Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Therapeutic Potential, and Socio‐Economic Value of the Caper Bush (Capparis Spinosa L.)**
Authors: Kdimy Ayoub , El Yadini Meryem , Guaadaoui Abdelkarim , Bourais Ilhame , El Hajjaji Souad , Le Hoang V.
Published: September 2022

Capparis spinosa L., commonly known as the caper bush, is an aromatic plant growing in most of the Mediterranean basin and some parts of Western Asia. C. spinosa L. has been utilized as a medicinal plant for quite a long time in conventional phytomedicine. Polyphenols and numerous bioactive chemicals extracted from C. spinosa L. display various therapeutic properties that have made this plant a target for further research as a health promoter. This review is meant to systematically summarize the traditional uses, the phytochemical composition of C. spinosa L., and the diverse pharmacological activities, as well as the synthetic routes to derivatives of some identified chemical components for the improvement of biological activities and enhancement of pharmacokinetic profiles. This review also addresses the benefits of C. spinosa L. in adapting to climate change and the socio‐economic value that C. spinosa L. brings to the rural economies of many countries.
Photo‐Responsive Co3O4/CoS2 Heterojunction as an Efficient Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Gao Yidan , Du Tingting , Jia Shijie , Chen Tianxiao , Zhang Yuxi , Yang Fengchun , Zhang Xin
Published: September 2022

Developing high‐efficiency electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) based on non‐precious transition metal materials alternative to noble metal has remained a great challenge in electrochemical water splitting. Meanwhile, the use of clean and sustainable solar energy is also crucial for renewable energy storage. Herein, a novel photo‐responsive electrocatalyst with proper energy band type, i. e., n type CoS2 semiconductor decorated on p‐type Co3O4 nanorod (Co3O4/CoS2), is prepared via a simple two‐step hydrothermal process. Consequently, the Co3O4/CoS2 shows small overpotential of 255 mV for OER to afford current density of 10 mA cm−2 after illumination, which is 40 mV lower than that without illumination. It also presents high electrochemically active surface areas and good stability. This significantly enhanced electrocatalytic OER performance is attributable to increased oxygen vacancies and highly active Co−S species that are electrooxidized to active site (Co3+) during OER. This work provides an effective perspective for the development of high efficiency OER catalysts based on non‐noble metals combined with solar energy as a renewable energy source.
Electrochemical Synthesis of gem‐Difluoro‐ and γ‐Fluoro‐Allyl Boronates and Silanes
Authors: Aelterman Maude , Biremond Tony , Jubault Philippe , Poisson Thomas
Published: September 2022

The electrochemical synthesis of fluorinated allyl silanes and boronates was disclosed. The addition of electrogenerated boryl or silyl radicals onto many α‐trifluoromethyl or α‐difluoromethylstyrenes in an undivided cell allowed the formation of a large panel of synthetically useful gem‐difluoro and γ‐fluoroallyl boronates and silanes (64 examples, from 31 % to 95 % yield). In addition, a scale up of the reactions under continuous flow was showcased using an electrochemical reactor with promising volumetric productivity (688 g.L−1.h−1 and 496 g.L−1.h−1). Moreover, the synthetic utility of these building blocks was highlighted through versatile transformations. Finally, plausible reaction mechanisms were suggested to explain the formation of the products.
Multiply Twisted Chiral Macrocycles Clamped by Tethered Binaphthyls Exhibiting High Circularly Polarized Luminescence Brightness
Authors: Hasegawa Masashi , Hasegawa Chika , Nagaya Yuki , Tsubaki Kazunori , Mazaki Yasuhiro
Published: September 2022

Chiral macrocyclic dimers, trimers, and tetramers composed of paraphenylene and tethered binaphthyl were synthesized, and their molecular structures and chiroptical properties were investigated. X‐ray analysis and theoretical calculations revealed that multiple twisted molecular structures – dimers, trimers, and tetramers – adopt figure‐of‐eight, Möbius triangle, and concave rectangle structures, respectively. These homologues have largeϵvalues in their UV‐vis absorption spectra because of the π‐conjugation of the naphthalene‐phenylene‐naphthalene frameworks. Owing to the shape‐persistent ring structure and tethering with −OCH2CH2O−, high fluorescence quantum yields and a relatively high dissymmetry factorgCPLin circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) spectra were achieved. This results in CPL brightness (BCPL) of over 100, which is greater than that of the conventional organic CPL dye.
Intermetallic Nanocrystals: Seed‐Mediated Synthesis and Applications in Electrocatalytic Reduction Reactions
Authors: Guo Jingchun , Jiao Shilong , Ya Xiuying , Zheng Huiling , Wang Ran , Yu Jiao , Wang Huanyu , Zhang Zhilin , Liu Wei , He Congxiao , Fu Xucheng
Published: September 2022

In recent years, intermetallic nanocrystals (IMNCs) have attracted extensive attention in the field of electrocatalysis. However, precise control over the size, shape, composition, structure, and exposed crystal facet of IMNCs seems to be a challenge to the traditional method of high‐temperature annealing although these parameters have a significant effect on the electrocatalytic performance. Controllable synthesis of IMNCs by the wet chemistry method in the liquid phase shows great potential compared with the traditional high‐temperature annealing method. In this Review, we attempt to summarize the preparation of IMNCs by the seed‐mediated synthesis in the liquid phase, as well as their applications in electrocatalytic reduction reactions. Several representative examples are purposely selected for highlighting the huge potential of the seed‐mediated synthesis approach in chemical synthesis. Specifically, we personally perceive the seed‐mediated synthesis approach as a promising tool in the future for precise control over the size, shape, composition, structure, and exposed crystal facet of IMNCs.
Racial disparities in Black men with prostate cancer: A literature review
Authors: Lillard James W. , Moses Kelvin A. , Mahal Brandon A. , George Daniel J.
Published: September 2022

Black men are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer (PCa), with earlier presentation, more aggressive disease, and higher mortality rates versus White men. Furthermore, Black men have less access to PCa treatment and experience longer delays between diagnosis and treatment. In this review, the authors discuss the factors contributing to racial disparities and present solutions to improve access to care and increase clinical trial participation among Black men with PCa. Racial disparities observed among Black men with PCa are multifaceted, evolving from institutional racism. Cultural factors include generalized mistrust of the health care system, poor physician‐patient communication, lack of information on PCa and treatment options, fear of PCa diagnosis, and perceived societal stigma of the disease. In the United States, geographic trends in racial disparities have been observed. Economic factors, e.g., cost of care, recovery time, and cancer debt, play an important role in racial disparities observed in PCa treatment and outcomes. Racial diversity is often lacking in genomic and precision medicine studies. Black men are largely underrepresented in key phase 3 PCa trials and may be less willing to enroll in clinical trials due to lack of awareness, lack of diversity in clinical trial research teams, and bias of health care providers to recommend clinical research. The authors propose solutions to address these factors that include educating clinicians and institutions on the barriers Black men experience, increasing the diversity of health care providers and clinical research teams, and empowering Black men to be involved in their treatment, which are keys to creating equity for Black men with PCa.

Lay summary

Prostate cancer negatively affects Black men more than men of other races.

The history of segregation and mistreatment in the health care system may contribute to mistrust among Black men.

Outcomes are worse for Black men because they are less likely to be screened or to receive treatment for prostate cancer.

Black men also are unlikely to participate in clinical research, making it difficult for investigators to understand how Black men are affected by prostate cancer.

Suggestions for addressing these differences include teaching physicians and nurses about the issues Black men experience getting treatment and improving how Black men get information on prostate cancer.
Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of the Oral NLRP3 Inflammasome Inhibitor ZYIL1: First‐in‐Human Phase 1 Studies (Single Ascending Dose and Multiple Ascending Dose)
Authors: Parmar Deven V. , Kansagra Kevinkumar A. , Momin Taufik , Patel Hardik B. , Jansari Gaurav A. , Bhavsar Jay , Shah Chintan , Patel Jayesh M. , Ghoghari Ashok , Barot Ajay , Sharma Bhavesh , Viswanathan Kasinath , Patel Harilal V. , Jain Mukul R.
Published: September 2022

ZYIL1 is a nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain, leucine rich repeat and pyrin domain‐containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome inhibitor, which prevents NLRP3‐induced apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase activation and recruitment domain oligomerization, thus inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. We investigated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic profiles of ZYIL1 after single and multiple doses in healthy subjects. The subjects aged 18–55 years were enrolled in 2 different studies: single and multiple ascending dose. Blood/urine samples were collected at designated time points for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analysis. In the single‐ascending‐dose study, 30 subjects were enrolled (6 subjects each in 5 dose groups). One adverse event was reported during the study. ZYIL1 was well absorbed with median time to maximum plasma concentration at 1–1.5 hours. The exposures were dose proportional across the dose ranges. ZYIL1 is excreted as an unchanged form via the renal route. The mean elimination half‐life was 6–7 hours. In the multiple‐ascending‐dose study, 18 subjects were enrolled (6 subjects each in 3 dose groups). Eleven adverse events were reported by 6 subjects during the study. The accumulation index at steady state for area under the plasma concentration–time curve indicated that ZYIL1 has a marginal accumulation upon repeated dosing. Dose‐proportional exposure was observed across the dose ranges. All subjects showed >90% interleukin (IL)‐1β inhibition in all dose groups for both studies. Inhibition in IL‐1β and IL‐18 was observed throughout the 14 days of treatment in the multiple‐dose study. The safety profile, rapid absorption, marginal accumulation, and significant inhibition of IL‐1β and IL‐18 level support its development for the management of inflammatory disorders.
The first session matters: Therapist responsiveness and the therapeutic alliance in the treatment of borderline personality disorder
Authors: Culina Ines , Fiscalini Elsa , Martin‐Soelch Chantal , Kramer Ueli
Published: September 2022

Objectives

The focus of the present research is to investigate the impact of therapist responsiveness at the very first session of therapy on the evaluation of therapeutic alliance from the therapist's perspective and from patient's perspective in the context of guideline‐based treatment for borderline personality disorder.

Design

The study has a correlational and longitudinal design applied to a 10‐session therapy in a naturalistic setting.

Methods

A total of four trained raters evaluated therapist responsiveness during the first session of therapy. After each therapy session, therapists and patients filled out the short form of the Working Alliance Inventory measuring working alliance; the sample included 13 therapists and 47 patients. Correlational analysis as well as hierarchical linear modelling exploring the relationship between first session therapist responsiveness and working alliance were performed.

Results

The global evaluation of responsiveness revealed a significant relationship with the temporal evolution of the alliance rated from the therapists' perspective.

Discussion

There is the necessity to further explore therapist appropriate responsiveness which could potentially explain several psychotherapy research results. Moreover, it could help in finding alternatives in order to facilitate patients' early engagement in therapy as well as facilitating the building process of therapeutic alliance. Finally, an effort should be made in order to study more individualized operationalization of responsiveness.
Using the Collaborative Cross and Diversity Outbred Mice in Immunology
Authors: Hackett Justin , Gibson Heather , Frelinger Jeffrey , Buntzman Adam
Published: September 2022

The Collaborative Cross (CC) and the Diversity Outbred (DO) stock mouse panels are the most powerful murine genetics tools available to the genetics community. Together, they combine the strength of inbred animal models with the diversity of outbred populations. Using the 63 CC strains or a panel of DO mice, each derived from the same 8 parental mouse strains, researchers can map genetic contributions to exceptionally complex immunological and infectious disease traits that would require far greater powering if performed by genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) in human populations. These tools allow genes to be studied in heterozygous and homozygous states and provide a platform to study epistasis between interacting loci. Most importantly, once a quantitative phenotype is investigated and quantitative trait loci are identified, confirmatory genetic studies can be performed, which is often problematic using the GWAS approach. In addition, novel stable mouse models for immune phenotypes are often derived from studies utilizing the DO and CC mice that can serve as stronger model systems than existing ones in the field. The CC/DO systems have contributed to the fields of cancer immunology, autoimmunity, vaccinology, infectious disease, allergy, tissue rejection, and tolerance but have thus far been greatly underutilized. In this article, we present a recent review of the field and point out key areas of immunology that are ripe for further investigation and awaiting new CC/DO research projects. We also highlight some of the strong computational tools that have been developed for analyzing CC/DO genetic and phenotypic data. Additionally, we have formed a centralized community on the CyVerse infrastructure where immunogeneticists can utilize those software tools, collaborate with groups across the world, and expand the use of the CC and DO systems for investigating immunogenetic phenomena. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Effect of growth stage, cultivar, and root wounding on disease development in cotton caused by Fusarium wilt race 4 (Fusarium oxysporumf. sp.vasinfectum)
Authors: Zhu Yi , Elkins‐Arce Heather , Wheeler Terry A. , Dever Jane , Whitelock Derek , Hake Kater , Wedegaertner Tom , Zhang Jinfa
Published: September 2022

Fusarium wilt caused by soil‐borne fungusFusarium oxysporumf. sp.vasinfectumrace 4 (FOV4) is an early season disease causing root rot, and seedling wilt and death. However, it was unknown if cotton (Gossypiumspp.) growth stages and root wounding affected genotypic responses to FOV4. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of cotton growth stage, cultivar, and root wounding on FOV4‐associated disease development at 7‐, 14‐, 21‐, and 28‐d post inoculation through five replicated tests in controlled environmental conditions with temperatures at 21 to 23 °C. Seedlings inoculated at the cotyledon stage incurred the highest disease incidence (DI), disease severity rating (DSR), and mortality (MR), followed by seedlings inoculated at the 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐true leaf stages in descending order. Root wounding at the cotyledon stage followed by immediate inoculation with FOV4 inoculum made all the tested cultivars and lines highly susceptible. Among the six cultivars tested, FM 2334GLT and Pima DP 359 RF were the most resistant, Pima S‐7 was highly susceptible, and Acala 1517‐08, Acala 1517–18 GLS, and Pima PHY 881 RF were susceptible. The importance of artificial inoculation at a true leaf stage with or without root wounding to identify resistance that may be undetected under field conditions was discussed.
Development and design of a diagnostic report to support communication in dementia: Co‐creation with patients and care partners
Authors: van Gils Aniek M. , Visser Leonie N. C. , Hendriksen Heleen M. A. , Georges Jean , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Rhodius‐Meester Hanneke F. M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Clear communication of diagnostic test results and dementia diagnosis is challenging yet important to empower patients and care partners. A personalized diagnostic report could support the communication of dementia diagnostics and aid patients’ understanding of diagnosis. In this study, we aimed to design a diagnostic report in co‐creation with patients and care partners.

Methods

We used a mixed‐methods approach, combining surveys with focus groups in iteration. Phase 1 consisted of an international survey assessing needs among patients (n= 50) and care partners (n= 46), and phase 2 consisted of focus group meetings (n= 3) to co‐create the content and to hands‐on co‐design the layout of the diagnostic report with patients (n= 7) and care partners (n= 7). Phase 3 validated results from phase 2 in a survey among patients (n= 28) and care partners (n= 12), and phase 4 comprised final feedback by dementia (care) experts (n= 5). Descriptive statistics were used to report quantitative results and directed content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data.

Results

Most patients (39/50, 78%) and care partners (38/46, 83%) positively valued a diagnostic report to summarize test results. The report should be brief, straightforward, and comprise results of the diagnostic tests, including brain imaging and information on future expectations. Despite a clear preference for visual display of test results, several visualization options were deemed best and were equally comprehended.

Discussion

In this study, we developed a prototype of a personalized patient report through an iterative design process and learned that co‐creation is highly valuable to meet the specific needs of end‐users.
A Novel Organometallic Coordination Polymer as a Heterogeneous Catalyst for C−C Bond Formation
Authors: Yang Xiang‐Kai , Hu Ji‐Hong , Lee Wei‐Te , Liu Yu‐Hsiang , Yen Yung‐Sheng , Chen Tsun‐Ren , Chen Jhy‐Der
Published: September 2022

One‐pot solvothermal reaction of 2‐aminopyridine and triethyl orthoformate with Ni(OAc)2 ⋅ 4H2O afforded a one dimensional (1D) nickel coordination polymer {[Ni(Dpyf′)] ⋅ MeOH}n (Dpyf′=C11H9N4−), 1, which has been structurally characterized by using single crystal X‐ray crystallography. Complex 1 can be considered as a potential heterogeneous catalyst for nitroaldol (Henry) reaction for C−C bond formation.
Photothermal‐Induced Electrical Behavior of Micron‐Sized Platinum Structures and Their Efficient Photodetection
Authors: Xiang Hengyang , Hu Zhelu , Xin Chenghao , Chen Zhuoying , Yuan Xiaojiao , Aigouy Lionel
Published: September 2022

Photothermal effects have recently been widely investigated for applications in the fields of biomedicine, physics, and chemistry. Unfortunately, only a few reports describe their potential use in ultrafast photodetectors. Herein, direct evidence for ultrafast photothermal‐induced electrical behavior of a platinum microwire (Pt MW) illuminated by a focused laser beam and modulated at different frequencies (329 Hz, 10, 50, and 150 kHz) is provided. The obtained electrical behavior images indicate that Pt‐based structures can be used to develop a new type of photodetector, namely, a photo‐thermo‐electric (PTE) detector. A high photoresponsivity of 0.3 mA W−1 and a fast response time of ≈50 μs on a single 1 μm wide Pt PTE detector are obtained. To further amplify the PTE effect of Pt MW, an integrated array of Pt MWs and a coating of gold nanorods is combined into a hybrid PTE detector, achieving a higher responsivity close to 100 mA W−1, which is 300 times higher than that of a single Pt MW PTE detector. These results confirm that Pt‐based PTE devices are promising candidates for efficient and fast‐response photodetectors.
Hepatic decompensation after transarterial radioembolization: A retrospective analysis of risk factors and outcome in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Reincke Marlene , Schultheiss Michael , Doppler Michael , Verloh Niklas , Uller Wibke , Sturm Lukas , Thimme Robert , Goetz Christian , Bettinger Dominik
Published: September 2022

Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) is a well‐established therapy for intermediate and advanced tumor stages of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Treatment‐associated toxicities are rare. Previous studies have outlined that the prognosis after TARE is determined primarily by tumor stage and liver function. The subset of patients benefiting from TARE remains to be defined. Sixty‐one patients with HCC treated with TARE between 2015 and 2020 were retrospectively included in the study. Hepatic decompensation was defined as an increase of bilirubin or newly developed ascites that was not explained by tumor progression within 3 months after TARE. Predictive factors of hepatic decompensation and prognostic factors were assessed. Hepatic decompensation was observed in 27.9% (n = 17) of TARE‐treated patients during follow‐up. Albumin‐bilirubin (ALBI) score at baseline and radiation dose on nontumor liver proved to be independent risk factors for the development of hepatic decompensation in multivariable regression models (ALBI score: odds ratio [OR] 6.425 [1.735;23.797], p < 0.005; radiation dose: OR 1.072 [1.016;1.131], p < 0.011). The occurrence of hepatic decompensation markedly impaired the prognosis of the patients. Survival was significantly worsened. Hepatic decompensation has shown to be an independent negative prognostic factor for death, adjusted for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage, age and ALBI grade (hazard ratio 5.694 [2.713;11.952], p < 0.001). Conclusion: Hepatic decompensation after TARE for HCC treatment is a highly relevant complication with major effects on the prognosis of patients. Main risk factors are the pretreatment ALBI score and radiation dose. There is an urgent need to define safe cutoff values and exclusion criteria for TARE to limit complications and improve patient outcomes.
Identification of the prognostic, diagnostic, and biological significance of the miR‐148a‐3p/cathepsin A axis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Xiulei , Chai Wei , Wang Tiegong , Chen Xiongfei , Zhang Lei , Li Fengshan , Liu Ruhai
Published: September 2022

A comprehensive analysis of the prognostic, diagnostic, and biological significance of miR‐148a‐3p and cathepsin A (CTSA) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was performed using bioinformatics algorithms with The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data. miR‐148a‐3p and CTSA gene expression in HCC tissues and nontumor specimens was analyzed using TCGA database with R software. CTSA staining analysis was validated using the Human Protein Atlas database. Prognostic, diagnostic, gene set enrichment, Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, and immune infiltration analyses were implemented using the TCGA database with R software. Based on TCGA data and our cohort populations, CTSA expression was significantly elevated in HCC tissues compared with nontumor specimens. A significant negative correlation between miR‐148a‐3p and CTSA was observed in the TCGA data and our cohort population. Mechanistically, CTSA was a direct gene target of miR‐148a‐3p. Both CTSA and miR‐148a‐3p could serve as prognostic and diagnostic indicators in HCC. miR‐148a‐3p expression was significantly and negatively correlated with the StromalScore, ImmuneScore, and ESTIMATEScore in patients with liver cancer. miR‐148a‐3p mimic‐mediated apoptosis and the inhibition of HCC cell growth and migration were counteracted by CTSA overexpression. The miR‐148a‐3p/CTSA axis was implicated in immune cell infiltration and carcinogenesis of HCC. miR‐148a‐3p and CTSA might be prospective molecular targets to enhance the potency of immunotherapy in HCC.
Therapeutic plasma exchange is a safe and effective bridge therapy in patients with alcohol‐associated ACLF not having immediate prospects for liver transplantation—A case‐control, pilot study
Authors: Ramakrishnan Sharanya , Hans Rekha , Duseja Ajay , Sharma Ratti Ram
Published: September 2022

Background

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a well‐established treatment modality in acute liver failure patients, but its efficacy in treating acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) patients is yet to be established.

Aim

To assess the efficacy and safety of TPE in patients with alcohol‐associated ACLF who were nonresponders to standard medical treatment (SMT) and without immediate prospects for liver transplantation.

Methods

Twenty‐eight alcohol‐related ACLF (grade II) patients (14 cases and 14 controls) were enrolled in the study. Cases underwent standard volume TPE along with SMT while the controls were on SMT alone. The change (baseline to day 10) in laboratory parameters, cytokine concentrations, clinical severity scores along with 30 and 90 day mortality rates were noted and compared between the two groups. The adverse events (AEs) were noted in the groups and analyzed.

Results

A total of 51 TPE procedures were performed in 14 patients (average of 3.62 procedures/patient). TPE was effective in reduction of serum bilirubin, ammonia, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, international normalized ratio, and severity scores (ACLF Research Consortium, Maddrey's discriminant function, and model for end‐stage liver disease) (P < .05). There was no significant difference in the reduction of serum interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐10, and tumor necrosis factor‐α concentrations among cases. Among the cases who received the complete TPE interventions, 30‐ and 90‐day mortality rates were lower in the cases as compared to controls albeit only the 90‐day mortality was significantly different. Procedure‐related AEs was observed in 2% of procedures.

Conclusion

TPE is an effective and well‐tolerated bridge therapy in patients with alcohol‐associated ACLF of moderate severity not improving on SMT and without immediate prospects for liver transplantation.
Histogram Analysis Based on Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density MR Imaging for Differentiation Between Glioblastoma Multiforme and Solitary Brain Metastasis and Comparison of the Diagnostic Performance of Two ROI Placements
Authors: Qi Jinbo , Wang Peipei , Zhao Guohua , Gao Eryuan , Zhao Kai , Gao Ankang , Bai Jie , Zhang Huiting , Yang Guang , Zhang Yong , Ma Xiaoyue , Cheng Jingliang
Published: September 2022

Background

Preoperative differentiation of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and solitary brain metastasis (SBM) contributes to guide neurosurgical decision‐making.

Purpose

To explore the value of histogram analysis based on neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) in differentiating between GBM and SBM and comparison of the diagnostic performance of two region of interest (ROI) placements.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

In all, 109 patients with GBM (n = 57) or SBM (n = 52) were enrolled.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3.0 T scanners. T2‐dark‐fluid sequence, contrast‐enhanced T1 magnetization‐prepared rapid gradient echo sequence, and NODDI.

Assessment

ROIs were placed on the peritumoral edema area (ROI1) and whole tumor area (ROI2, included the cystic, necrotic, and hemorrhagic areas). Histogram parameters of each isotropic volume fraction (ISOVF), intracellular volume fraction (ICVF), and orientation dispersion index (ODI) from NODDI images for two ROIs were calculated, respectively.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U test, independent t‐test, chi‐square test, multivariate logistic regression analysis, DeLong's test.

Results

For the ROI1 and ROI2, the ICVFmin and ODImean obtained the highest area under curve (AUC, AUC = 0.741 and 0.750, respectively) compared to other single parameters, and the AUC of the multivariate logistic regression model was 0.851 and 0.942, respectively. DeLong's test revealed significant difference in diagnostic performance between optimal single parameter and multivariate logistic regression model within the same ROI, and the multivariate logistic regression models between two different ROIs.

Data Conclusion

The performance of multivariate logistic regression model is superior to optimal single parameter in both ROIs based on NODDI histogram analysis to distinguish SBM from GBM, and the ROI placed on the whole tumor area exhibited better diagnostic performance.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
A cautionary note to hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐negative test results in pregnant women in an area prevalent of HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Chalid Maisuri T. , Turyadi  , Ie Susan I. , Sjahril Rizalinda , Wahyuni Ridha , Nasrum Massi M. , Muljono David H.
Published: September 2022

Maternal hepatitis B e Antigen (HBeAg) positivity poses a risk for hepatitis B virus (HBV) mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT). In resource‐constrained settings, HBeAg testing is recommended as an alternative to HBV DNA testing to establish antiviral prophylaxis eligibility. Nevertheless, the high prevalence of HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B (e‐CHB) in many countries should not be overlooked. We studied HBV characteristics and explored the potential MTCT risk among HBeAg‐negative/HBsAg‐positive expectant mothers in an area prevalent of e‐CHB. Among 1348 pregnant mothers screened for HBV infection, 81 (6.0%) were HBsAg‐positive. These women were examined for HBeAg, HBV DNA, and cord blood HBV DNA. Sixteen (19.8%) of the HBsAg‐positive mothers were HBeAg‐positive, whereas 65 (80.2%) were HBeAg‐negative, including eight inactive carriers (HBsAg <100 IU/ml, HBV DNA ≤ 2000 IU/ml, and ALT < 40 IU/L). Of the remaining 57 HBeAg‐negative mothers, ten revealed HBV Basal Core Promoter or Precore mutations, with three having high viremia (HBV DNA > 200 000 IU/mL), which is associated with a high MTCT risk and therefore qualifies them for antiviral prophylaxis. This pilot study provides a cautionary note to the interpretation of negative HBeAg test results when determining eligibility for MTCT antiviral prophylaxis in situations with limited resources and in regions where e‐CHB is prevalent.
Contribution of small‐scale farmers to global food security: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Azadi Hossein , Ghazali Samane , Ghorbani Mehdi , Tan Rong , Witlox Frank
Published: September 2022

In this study, the impacts of small‐scale farmers on food security enhancement were estimated in three dimensions of food availability, food access and food utilization. In the current study, a systematic review and meta‐analysis have been performed to synthesize results from 75 original articles. It includes the pooling of data that quantitatively investigate whether or not causal links characterized in the original articles remain valid across a broader scope of the literature. The findings show that farmers who are small‐scale in natural/physical capital would lead to higher median food production and agricultural productivity, compared with small‐scale farmers in financial capital, at about 19% and 15%, respectively. Meta‐regression results indicate that small‐scale farmers in natural/physical capital have significantly positive effects on the average agricultural productivity, food income and biofortification. By contrast, farmers who are small‐scale in financial capital have negative effects on food security. The influential role of these small‐scale farmers should also be considered since food insecurity leads to socio‐economic implications. Therefore, it is recommended to cultivate higher value crops, to participate in various income‐generating activities such as fisheries and forestry, and to pay agricultural credits. The effect of the size of small‐scale farmers on global food security is very useful for policymakers to plan for a world without hunger. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Multiproxy paleolimnological records provide evidence for a shift to a new ecosystem state in the Northern Great Plains, USA
Authors: Hu Kui , Mushet David M. , Sweetman Jon N.
Published: September 2022

Wetlands in the Prairie Pothole Region of the North American Northern Great Plains perform multiple ecosystem services and are biodiversity hotspots. However, climatological changes can result in sudden shifts in these important ecosystems. For example, marked increases in precipitation in the last few decades have resulted in a widespread shift in wetlands across the Prairie Pothole Region to a new ecohydrological state. We used multiproxy analyses (diatom community composition and invertebrate stable isotopes) of 210Pb‐dated sediment cores from two adjacent, but morphologically and hydrologically different, prairie‐pothole wetlands to assess the effects of hydroclimatic variability on these wetland ecosystems. Our results provide evidence that the recent ecohydrological shift in the region's wetlands is unprecedented over the past ca. 178 yr. Oxygen stable isotopes in chironomid head capsules provide a record of paleohydrology changes. The most recent sediments (i.e., those deposited after the state shift) from both wetlands revealed novel changes in diatom communities that differed greatly from earlier community compositions. In addition, a depleted signal in deuterium and 13C carbon stable isotopes observed in chironomid head capsules and Daphnia ephippia, respectively, after 1993 is likely related to an increase in methane production in these wetlands. Our study highlights the importance of considering basin morphometry including whether a wetland has an overflow point, and multiple biological indicators to study climate‐change influences on freshwater ecosystems. Research using these techniques can lead to an improved understanding of recent ecosystem shifts, an understanding that will be essential for future climate‐change adaptation and mitigation in this ecologically important region.
Bridging the gap: A library‐based collaboration to enhance data skills for clinical researchers
Authors: Carson Matthew B. , Gonzales Sara , Shaw Pamela , Schneider Daniel , Holmes Kristi
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Enterprise data warehouses (EDWs) serve as foundational infrastructure in a modern learning health system, housing clinical and other system‐wide data and making it available for research, strategic, and quality improvement purposes. Building on a longstanding partnership between Northwestern University's Galter Health Sciences Library and the Northwestern Medicine Enterprise Data Warehouse (NMEDW), an end‐to‐end clinical research data management (cRDM) program was created to enhance clinical data workforce capacity and further expand related library‐based services for the campus.

Methods

The training program covers topics such as clinical database architecture, clinical coding standards, and translation of research questions into queries for proper data extraction. Here we describe this program, including partners and motivations, technical and social components, integration of FAIR principles into clinical data research workflows, and the long‐term implications for this work to serve as a blueprint of best practice workflows for clinical research to support library and EDW partnerships at other institutions.

Results

This training program has enhanced the partnership between our institution's health sciences library and clinical data warehouse to provide support services for researchers, resulting in more efficient training workflows. Through instruction on best practices for preserving and sharing outputs, researchers are given the tools to improve the reproducibility and reusability of their work, which has positive effects for the researchers as well as for the university. All training resources have been made publicly available so that those who support this critical need at other institutions can build on our efforts.

Conclusions

Library‐based partnerships to support training and consultation offer an important vehicle for clinical data science capacity building in learning health systems. The cRDM program launched by Galter Library and the NMEDW is an example of this type of partnership and builds on a strong foundation of past collaboration, expanding the scope of clinical data support services and training on campus.
Advances in mass spectrometry imaging for spatial cancer metabolomics
Authors: Ma Xin , Fernández Facundo M.
Published: September 2022

Mass spectrometry (MS) has become a central technique in cancer research. The ability to analyze various types of biomolecules in complex biological matrices makes it well suited for understanding biochemical alterations associated with disease progression. Different biological samples, including serum, urine, saliva, and tissues have been successfully analyzed using mass spectrometry. In particular, spatial metabolomics using MS imaging (MSI) allows the direct visualization of metabolite distributions in tissues, thus enabling in‐depth understanding of cancer‐associated biochemical changes within specific structures. In recent years, MSI studies have been increasingly used to uncover metabolic reprogramming associated with cancer development, enabling the discovery of key biomarkers with potential for cancer diagnostics. In this review, we aim to cover the basic principles of MSI experiments for the nonspecialists, including fundamentals, the sample preparation process, the evolution of the mass spectrometry techniques used, and data analysis strategies. We also review MSI advances associated with cancer research in the last 5 years, including spatial lipidomics and glycomics, the adoption of three‐dimensional and multimodal imaging MSI approaches, and the implementation of artificial intelligence/machine learning in MSI‐based cancer studies. The adoption of MSI in clinical research and for single‐cell metabolomics is also discussed. Spatially resolved studies on other small molecule metabolites such as amino acids, polyamines, and nucleotides/nucleosides will not be discussed in the context.
Functional urology: Practice patterns and training aspirations among urologists in Brazil
Authors: Costa‐Matos André , Toledo Luis Gustavo Morato , Fornari Alexandre , Fernandes Silva Jose Ailton , Gomes Cristiano Mendes
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Urology has rapidly evolved during the last decades, incorporating new technologies faster than most specialties. The challenge to maintain a competent workforce that is prepared to deliver proper contemporary treatment has become increasingly difficult and newly graduated urologists throughout the world typically lack the skills to practice many urological subspecialties. We performed a survey to evaluate the practice patterns and educational aspirations in functional urology (FU) among Brazilian urologists.

Methods

A web‐based survey was sent to board‐certified Brazilian urologists to collect data on clinical practice and training aspirations in four subareas of FU: female urology, urodynamics, postprostatectomy incontinence (PPI), and neurourology. We evaluated urologists' clinical and surgical workload in each subarea and investigated educational training aspirations to identify areas and training formats of interest.

Results

A total of 366 urologists (mean age 47.7 + 10.7 years) completed the survey. Mean time since completion of residency was 17.9 + 11.9 years. Of the respondents, 176 (53%) perform urodynamics, 285 (83.1%) SUI surgeries, 159 (47.6%) PPI surgeries, 194 (58.1%) third line OAB procedures, 168 (48.9%) pelvic organ prolapse (POP), and 88 (26.3%) bladder augmentation. Mid‐urethral sling is the most performed SUI surgery and transobturator is the preferred route (64.0%). For those performing POP surgery, 40.5% use mesh in at least 50% of their cases, and the vaginal route is used in most cases (75.4%) for apical prolapse. For PPI, 64.6% use artificial sphincter in most surgeries and only 8.1% perform at least 5 surgeries/year. Being fellowship‐trained and working in an academic hospital are associated with a higher chance of being active in FU. Most urologists are interested in receiving training in PPI, female SUI, and POP and a hands‐on course is the preferred educational method (81%).

Conclusions

Most urologists in Brazil are involved in the evaluation and treatment of FU patients, but few have a large volume of patient visits and surgical procedures. Completing a fellowship program and working in an academic practice are associated with a higher chance of being a FU practitioner. There is a high interest in training for PPI, female SUI, and POP.