bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Increased Endocrine Activity of Xenobiotic Chemicals as Mediated by Metabolic Activation
Authors: Kolanczyk Richard C. , Denny Jeffrey S. , Sheedy Barbara R. , Olson Victoria V. , Serrano Jose A. , Tapper Mark A. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) is faced with long lists of chemicals that require hazard assessment. The present study is part of a larger effort to develop in vitro assays and quantitative structure–activity relationships applicable to untested chemicals on USEPA inventories through study of estrogen receptor (ER) binding and estrogen-mediated gene expression in fish. The present effort investigates metabolic activation of chemicals resulting in increased estrogenicity. Phenolphthalin (PLIN) was shown not to bind rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) ER (rtER) in a competitive binding assay, but vitellogenin (Vtg) expression was induced in trout liver slices exposed to 10–4 and 10–3.7 M PLIN. Phenolphthalein (PLEIN), a metabolite of PLIN, was subsequently determined to be formed when slices were exposed to PLIN. It binds rtER with a relative binding affinity to 17β-estradiol of 0.020%. Slices exposed to PLEIN expressed Vtg messenger RNA (mRNA) at 10–4.3, 10–4, and 10–3.7 M, with no detectable PLIN present. Thus, Vtg expression noted in PLIN slice exposures was explained by metabolism to PLEIN in trout liver slices. A second model chemical, 4,4′-methylenedianiline (MDA), was not shown to bind rtER but did induce Vtg mRNA production in tissue slices at 10–4.3, 10–4, and 10–3.7 M in amounts nearly equal to reference estradiol induction, thus indicating metabolic activation of MDA. A series of experiments were performed to identify a potential metabolite responsible for the observed increase in activity. Potential metabolites hydroxylamine-MDA, nitroso-MDA, azo-MDA, and azoxy-MDA were not observed. However, acetylated MDA was observed and tested in both ER-binding and tissue slice Vtg induction assays. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2747–2757. © 2023 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Blockchain‐assisted twin migration for vehicular metaverses: A game theory approach
Authors: Zhong Yue , Wen Jinbo , Zhang Junhong , Kang Jiawen , Jiang Yuna , Zhang Yang , Cheng Yanyu , Tong Yongju 
Published: September 2023

AbstractAs the fusion of automotive industry and metaverse, vehicular metaverses establish a bridge between the physical space and virtual space, providing intelligent transportation services through the integration of various technologies, such as extended reality and real‐time rendering technologies, to offer immersive metaverse services for vehicular metaverse users (VMUs). In vehicular metaverses, VMUs update vehicle twins (VTs) deployed in RoadSide Units (RSUs) to obtain metaverse services. However, due to the mobility of vehicles and the limited service coverage of RSUs, VT migration is necessary to ensure continuous immersive experiences for VMUs. This process requires RSUs to contribute resources for enabling efficient migration, which leads to a resource‐trading problem between RSUs and VMUs. Moreover, a single RSU cannot support large‐scale VT migration. To this end, we propose a blockchain‐assisted game approach framework for reliable VT migration in vehicular metaverses. Based on the subject logic model, we first calculate the reputation values of RSUs considering the freshness of interaction between RSUs and VMUs. Then, a coalition game based on the reputation values of RSUs is formulated, and RSU coalitions are formed to jointly provide bandwidth resources for reliable and large‐scale VT migration. Subsequently, the RSU coalition with the highest utility is selected. Finally, to incentivize VMUs to participate in VT migration, we propose a Stackelberg model between the selected coalition and VMUs. Numerical results demonstrate the reliability and effectiveness of the proposed schemes.
Exploring factors contributing to caregiver burden in family caregivers of congolese adults with suspected dementia
Authors: Ikanga Jean , Reyes Anny , Zhao Liping , Hill‐Jarrett Tanisha G. , Hammers Dustin , Epenge Emmanuel , Esambo Herve , Kavugho Immaculée , Esselakoy Christian , Gikelekele Guy , Tshengele Nathan , Alonso Alvaro , Robinson‐Lane Sheria G. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractIntroductionPredicting caregiver burden in individuals with suspected dementia – is critical due to the debilitating nature of these disorders and need for caregiver support. While some examination of the factors affecting burden has been undertaken in Sub‐Saharan Africa, each country presents with its own unique challenges and obstacles. This pilot study investigates predictors of caregiver burden in family caregivers of individuals with suspected dementia living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).MethodsLinear and multiple regression analyses were conducted to explore factors associated with caregiver burden in 30 patient‐caregiver dyads with the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) for caregiver burden evaluation. Cognitive impairments of patients were assessed using the Community Screening Instrument for Dementia, Alzheimer's Questionnaire (AQ), the African Neuropsychology Battery, and the Neuropsychiatric Symptoms Inventory (NPI).ResultsAverage caregiver burden on the ZBI was 36.1 (SD = 14.6; range = 12–58). Greater impairments in patient cognition (orientation, visuospatial, memory, executive functioning), fragility, and neuropsychiatric symptoms (delirium, agitation, depression) were predictive of caregiver burden. After controlling for AQ scores and caregiver gender, greater symptoms of depression, and worse performances on verbal memory and problem solving were associated with greater caregiver burden.ConclusionWorsening patient fragility, cognition, functioning, and neuropsychiatric symptoms influenced caregiver burden in caregivers of individuals with suspected cognitive impairment in the DRC. These findings are consistent with the prior literature. Future studies may wish to explore supportive factors and caregiver specific characteristics that buffer against perceived burden.
Living in and working through the wake: A Black undocumented student's study abroad experience
Authors: Hall Kayon A. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractUsing Sharpe's (2016) wake work theory, this paper highlights how one Black undocumented student used a study abroad experience to negotiate his dis/comfort and take up ontological space a liminal space. I argue that choosing to study abroad while risking uncertain access back in the United States is wake work. Escaping the wake, albeit short, was an intentional move to resist his liminal space, given his Blackness and immigration status. Findings reveal wake work occurred through (1) Movement: The beginning, (2) The escape, and (3) The return: Re‐entering the wake.Practical Takeaways
Study abroad programs should assess how they are being inclusive in engaging undocumented students about these programs and identify successful practices and approaches to support those interested.
Universities should partner with schools and independent organizations that provide study abroad opportunities for undocumented students. For example, the California‐Mexico Studies provides three academic programs for undocumented students 21 years and older to study abroad for 4 weeks in Mexico.
Because DACA is a renewable program under the Obama‐era, no new students can apply for DACA which means more students entering higher education will be undocumented without DACA. As we enter a post DACA era, universities and study abroad programs will need to create and implement global learning programs and opportunities for undocumented students.
Scholars working with, and alongside undocumented students should use more asset‐based theories and methodologies to highlight the experiences of Black undocumented students in higher education (see Santa‐Ramirez, 2021, 2022; Shelton & Thompson, 2023).
Testing CASE: A new event‐based Morgan‐Morgan‐Finney‐type erosion model for different rainfall experimental scenarios
Authors: Brunner Thomas , Weninger Thomas , Schmaltz Elmar , Krasa Josef , Stasek Jakub , Zavattaro Laura , Sisak Istvan , Dostal Tomas , Klik Andreas , Strauss Peter 
Published: September 2023

AbstractEvery application of soil erosion models brings the need of proper parameterisation, that is, finding physically or conceptually plausible parameter values that allow a model to reproduce measured values. No universal approach for model parameterisation, calibration and validation exists, as it depends on the model, spatial and temporal resolution and the nature of the datasets used. We explored some existing options for parameterisation, calibration and validation for erosion modelling exemplary with a specific dataset and modelling approach. A new Morgan‐Morgan‐Finney (MMF)‐type model was developed, representing a balanced position between physically‐based and empirical modelling approaches. The resulting model termed ‘calculator for soil erosion’ (CASE), works in a spatially distributed way on the timescale of individual rainfall events. A dataset of 142 high‐intensity rainfall experiments in Central Europe (AT, HU, IT, CZ), covering various slopes, soil types and experimental designs was used for calibration and validation with a modified Monte‐Carlo approach. Subsequently, model parameter values were compared to parameter values obtained by alternative methods (measurements, pedotransfer functions, literature data). The model reproduced runoff and soil loss of the dataset in the validation setting with R2adj of 0.89 and 0.76, respectively. Satisfactory agreement for the water phase was found, with calibrated saturated hydraulic conductivity (ksat) values falling within the interquartile range of ksat predicted with 14 different pedotransfer functions, or being within one order of magnitude. The chosen approach also well reflected specific experimental setups contained in the dataset dealing with the effects of consecutive rainfall and different soil water conditions. For the sediment phase of the tested model agreement between calibrated cohesion, literature values and field measurements were only partially in line. The methods we explored may specifically be interesting for use with other MMF‐type models, or with similar datasets.
Orthotopic kidney transplantation from a living renal donor after interventional therapy for bilateral arteriosclerosis obliterans of the iliac arteries: A case report and literature review
Authors: Ohyama Takehiro , Sasaki Hajime , Minamisono Kyoko , Nishida Sho , Iwami Daiki 
Published: September 2023

IntroductionOrthotopic kidney transplantation is an option when heterotopic kidney transplantation into the iliac fossa is inappropriate. We report a case of orthotopic kidney transplantation following stenting of both external iliac arteries to treat arteriosclerosis obliterans.Case presentationA 56‐year‐old woman on hemodialysis for end‐stage kidney disease underwent living‐donor kidney transplantation. Desensitization therapy was administered because of her history of sensitization by pregnancy. Stents had been placed previously in both external iliac arteries. The left kidney was removed via an oblique lumbar incision. The two graft arteries were conjoined and anastomosed to the native renal artery end‐to‐end. The urinary tract was reconstructed by uretero‐ureterostomy with ureteral stent placement. Renal function improved promptly after surgery.ConclusionPreoperative imaging of vascular anatomy is important for successful orthotopic kidney transplantation in patients who have previously undergone stenting of both external iliac arteries for arteriosclerosis obliterans.
A case of adrenal undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma with tertiary lymphoid structures responded to pembrolizumab
Authors: Kokubun Hidetoshi , Kijima Toshiki , Takada‐Owada Atsuko , Mamiya Daisuke , Kurashina Ryo , Okubo Naoya , Uematsu Toshitaka , Takei Kohei , Ishida Kazuyuki , Kamai Takao 
Published: September 2023

IntroductionAlthough undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas are aggressive, a subset of these tumors are immunogenic and may respond to immunotherapy.Case presentationA 69‐year‐old man developed bilateral adrenal tumors and underwent bilateral adrenalectomy. Pathological examination revealed undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma harboring tertiary lymphoid structures and infiltration of CD8+ T cells. Genome profiling revealed PD‐L1 amplification, microsatellite instability, and a high tumor mutation burden. He developed local recurrence and multiple peritoneal dissemination 2 months after surgery; adriamycin chemotherapy was ineffective for these lesions. Sustained complete remission of all lesions was achieved by administering pembrolizumab.ConclusionImmunohistochemical analysis focusing on tertiary lymphoid structures and genome profiling to evaluate microsatellite instability and tumor mutation burden are essential for precision medicine and informed clinical decision‐making when treating advanced undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma.
Assessment of the Heavy Metals in Al Asfar Lake, Al‐Hassa, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hussein Adel H.A. , El Mahmoudi Ahmed S. , Al Naeem Ahmed A. 
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT: Al Asfar Lake is a shallow wetland and habitat for wildlife and birds in a desert environment. The water of this lake is originated from the drainage water collected by earthen drainage network and discharged into the lake. The purpose of this study was to assess physico‐ chemical characteristics and some of heavy metals in Al Asfar lake water. The studied parameters are iron, manganese, copper, zinc, cadmium, chromium, lead, pH, electrical conductivity, and nitrate. Forty‐five surface water samples were collected in March 2013. The results revealed that the pH ranged from 7.33 to 8.67, electrical conductivity ranged from 8.28 to 11.34 dS/m, and NO3−ranged from 0.84 to 2.29 mg/L. In addition, heavy metals concentrations in water were found in the following order: Fe > Mn > Cu > Zn > Cd > Cr = Pb. The mean concentrations of heavy metals in surface water of Al Asfar lake ranged from 0.027 to 0.159 ppm, 0.007 to 0.142 ppm, 0.005 to 0.017 ppm, 0.005 to 0.066 ppm, 0.001 to 0.033 ppm, 0 ppm, and 0 ppm for iron, manganese, copper, zinc, cadmium, chromium, and lead, respectively. Moreover, pH, NO3−, Fe, Mn, and Zn concentrations in the surface water of Al Asfar Lake were found to be within the international permissible limits. On the other hand, Cu and Cd concentrations exceeded the international permissible limits. The high level of some parameters of the measured heavy metals could be attributed to the contamination of Al Asfar Lake with discharge water enriched with chemical fertilizers in addition to domestic and industrial effluents.
Serpin family H member 1 and its related collagen gene network are the potential prognostic biomarkers and anticancer targets for glioma
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Zhe 
Published: September 2023

AbstractSerpin family H member 1 (SERPINH1) is responsible for encoding the protein known as heat shock protein 47, which functions as a molecular chaperone specific to collagen (COL). This protein has been identified as a potential therapeutic target for COL‐related disorders. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of SERPINH1 in the tumorigenicity of gliomas. To achieve this, we utilized various bioinformatics tools to analyze gene expression, overall survival, protein–protein interactions, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database revealed that SERPINH1 and four COL family members (COL1A1, COL3A1, COL4A1, and COL4A2) expression are significantly upregulated in glioma tissues compared with normal nontumor tissues. GO, KEGG, and GSEA analyses exhibited that SERPINH1 is implicated in the establishment and degradation of COL‐containing extracellular matrix (ECM), focal adhesion, and ECM–receptor interaction in glioma. SERPINH1 is an independent prognostic factor, exhibiting a positive association with the augmentation of neutrophils and macrophages, as well as the manifestation of immune checkpoint molecules within glioma. Experimental assessments conducted both in vitro and in vivo demonstrated that the suppression of SERPINH1 impeded the migratory, invasive, and proliferative capacities of glioma cells, while concurrently fostering cellular apoptosis. Consequently, SERPINH1 emerges as an oncogenic gene and an independent prognostic marker for glioma, potentially facilitating the advancement of immunotherapeutic interventions for the treatment of glioma.
Heavy‐metal tolerant bacterial strains isolated from industrial sites and scrap yards in Kashmir, India
Authors: Hamid Burhan , Majeed Neesa , Ganai Bashir Ahmad , Hassan Shahnawaz , Bashir Zaffar , Wani Parvaze Ahmad , Perveen Kahkashan , Sayyed R. Z. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractHeavy metal pollution has posed a severe danger to environmental stability due to its high toxicity and lack of biodegradability. The present study deals with the appraisement of tolerance shown by various bacteria in varied copper and iron concentrations. Among the 20 isolates, four isolates, GN2, SC5, SC8, and SC10, exhibiting more significant iron and copper tolerance, were selected and identified by 16 S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene sequence analysis as Pantoea agglomerans strain GN2, Pantoea sp. strain SC5, Bacillus sp. strain SC8 and Priestia aryabhattaistrain SC10. The minimum inhibitory concentration of molecularly identified strains revealed that P. agglomerans strain GN2 showed tolerance to iron sulfate and copper sulfate upto 600 and 400 µg/mL, whereas Bacillus sp. SC8 (OQ202165) showed tolerance of 700 and 250 µg/mL were tolerant to iron sulfate and copper sulfate up to 700 and 150 µg/mL, respectively. Pantoea sp. strain SC5 showed significant tolerance to both heavy metals. The isolates were further studied for their ability to grow at varying temperatures and pH ranges. Most of the isolates showed optimal growth at 37°C and pH 7. However, Pantoea sp. SC5 was competent to have prominent growth at 45°C and pH 8.0. Microbial remediation, which is eco‐friendly, has proven the most effective method for bioremediation of heavy metal‐contaminated environments. Using heavy metal‐resistant bacteria for microbial remediation of iron and copper‐contaminated environments could be a viable and valuable strategy. These isolates could also be used to decontaminate heavy metal‐polluted agricultural soils.
On‐Site Diagnostic Ability of CEUS/CT/MRI for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (2019–2022)
Authors: Yang Qi , Zheng Rongqin , Zhou Jianhua , Tang Lina , Zhang Ruifang , Jiang Tianan , Jing Xiang , Liao Jintang , Cheng Wen , Zhao Cheng , Liu Cun , Dietrich Chirstoph F. , Cui Xinwu , Cai Wenjia , Wu JiaPeng , Yu Fei , Cheng Zhigang , Liu Fangyi , Han Zhiyu , Yu Xiaoling , Yu Jie , Liang Ping 
Published: September 2023

ObjectivesTo compare the on‐site diagnostic performance of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), computed tomography (CECT), and magnetic resonance imaging (CEMRI) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) across diverse practice settings.MethodsBetween May 2019 and April 2022, a total of 2085 patients with 2320 pathologically confirmed focal liver lesions (FLLs) were enrolled. Imaging reports were compared with results from pathology analysis. Diagnostic performance was analyzed in defined size, high‐risk factors for HCC, and hospital volume categories.ResultsThree images achieved similar diagnostic performance in classifying HCC from 16 types of FLLs, including HCC ≤2.0 cm. For HCC diagnosis at low‐volume hospitals and HCC with high‐risk factors, the accuracy and specificity of CEUS were comparable to CECT and CEMRI, while the sensitivity of CEUS (77.4 and 89.5%, respectively) was inferior to CEMRI (87.0 and 92.8%, respectively). The diagnostic accuracy of CEUS + CEMRI and CEUS + CECT increased by 7.8 and 6.2% for HCC ≤2.0 cm, 8.0 and 5.0% for HCC with high‐risk factors, and 7.4 and 5.5% for HCC at low‐volume hospitals, respectively, compared with CEMRI/CECT alone.ConclusionsCompared with CECT and CEMRI, CEUS provides adequate diagnostic performance in clinical first‐line applications at high‐volume hospitals. Moreover, a higher diagnostic performance for HCC is achieved by combining CEUS with CECT/CEMRI compared with any single imaging technique.
Complications and Functional Outcomes After Esophageal Reconstruction with an Intact Larynx
Authors: Agarwal Aarti , Philips Ramez , Fiorella Michele , Amin Dev R. , Krein Howard , Heffelfinger Ryan 
Published: September 2023

BackgroundEsophageal defects can result from primary pathologies such as malignancy or stricture, or secondary ones such as perforation due to trauma or iatrogenic injury. Techniques, management, and outcomes of reconstruction in this setting are poorly understood. Herein, we aim to highlight surgical outcomes in patients undergoing local and free flap reconstruction of esophageal defects in the setting of an intact larynx.MethodsRetrospective review of patients who underwent esophageal reconstruction with an intact larynx between 2009 and 2022 at our institution was performed.ResultsTen patients met inclusion criteria. Esophageal reconstruction was performed for extruded spinal hardware (n = 8), and esophageal stricture (n = 2). Four patients underwent reconstruction with free tissue transfer, and six with local pedicled flaps. There were no cases of flap failure, esophageal fistula, hematoma, or wound dehiscence. One patient had post‐operative bleeding requiring return to the operating room. Three patients had a postoperative wound infection, two of whom required washout. There were no unplanned 30‐day readmissions. At three months after operation, all patients who were not tube feed‐dependent prior to surgery returned to oral intake. Of the four patients who were tube feed‐dependent preoperatively, three were tolerating oral intake at nine months postoperatively. Nine patients (90%) had stable flexible laryngoscopy exams pre‐ and postoperatively with no voice changes.ConclusionsReconstruction of esophageal defects in the setting of an intact larynx can be challenging. In this series, surgical intervention with free tissue transfer and local pedicled flaps was effective in returning patients to oral intake with low long‐term morbidity.Level of Evidence4 Laryngoscope, 134:1227–1233, 2024
Discretely Tunable (2594, 2629, 2670 nm) GaSb/Si3N4 Hybrid Laser for Multiwavelength Spectroscopy
Authors: Ojanen Samu‐Pekka , Viheriälä Jukka , Zia Nouman , Koivusalo Eero , Hilska Joonas , Tuorila Heidi , Guina Mircea 
Published: September 2023

AbstractA discrete, tunable photonic integrated laser is showcased for multiwavelength spectroscopy of CO2, H2S, and H2O. The laser combines an AlGaInAsSb/GaSb type‐I quantum well‐reflective semiconductor optical amplifier with a Si3N4 photonic integrated circuit (PIC). Operating at room temperature, the laser emits at 2670.42, 2629.12, and 2594.27 nm, with mW‐level average powers. The PIC employs a novel approach for achieving switching between three distinct emission wavelengths by using two cascaded tunable Mach–Zehnder interferometers (MZIs) that are connected to three spiral‐shaped narrow‐band distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs). Phase tuning the arms of the MZIs allows the laser emission wavelength to be switched between the DBRs, while the DBRs themselves offer fine‐tuning of the emission wavelength. This design enables a simpler tuning mechanism with fewer control variables compared to hybrid PIC‐based lasers using Vernier architectures or a combination of multiple semiconductor amplifiers. Low‐loss and broadband MZIs are achieved by employing two interconnected directional couplers, which utilize asymmetric waveguides in the coupling region to effectively control the phase. Besides achieving state‐of‐the‐art performance for Si3N4‐based integrated lasers at 2.6 µm wavelength region, the demonstrated performance of passive components, including MZIs and spiral DBRs, opens new possibilities for mid‐infrared PIC technology.