bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatio-temporal monitoring of health facility-level malaria trends in Zambia and adaptive scaling for operational intervention
Authors: Lubinda Jailos , Bi Yaxin , Haque Ubydul , Lubinda Mukuma , Hamainza Busiku , Moore Adrian J.
Published: July 2022

Background

The spatial and temporal variability inherent in malaria transmission within countries implies that targeted interventions for malaria control in high-burden settings and subnational elimination are a practical necessity. Identifying the spatio-temporal incidence, risk, and trends at different administrative geographies within malaria-endemic countries and monitoring them in near real-time as change occurs is crucial for developing and introducing cost-effective, subnational control and elimination intervention strategies.

Methods

This study developed intelligent data analytics incorporating Bayesian trend and spatio-temporal Integrated Laplace Approximation models to analyse high-burden over 32 million reported malaria cases from 1743 health facilities in Zambia between 2009 and 2015.

Results

The results show that at least 5.4 million people live in catchment areas with increasing trends of malaria, covering over 47% of all health facilities, while 5.7 million people live in areas with a declining trend (95% CI), covering 27% of health facilities. A two-scale spatio-temporal trend comparison identified significant differences between health facilities and higher-level districts, and the pattern observed in the southeastern region of Zambia provides the first evidence of the impact of recently implemented localised interventions.

Conclusions

The results support our recommendation for an adaptive scaling approach when implementing national malaria monitoring, control and elimination strategies and a particular need for stratified subnational approaches targeting high-burden regions with increasing disease trends. Strong clusters along borders with highly endemic countries in the north and south of Zambia underscore the need for coordinated cross-border malaria initiatives and strategies.
Patient-derived tumor organoids for personalized medicine in a patient with rare hepatocellular carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation: a case report
Authors: Meier Marie-Anne , Nuciforo Sandro , Coto-Llerena Mairene , Gallon John , Matter Matthias S. , Ercan Caner , Vosbeck Jürg , Terracciano Luigi M. , Soysal Savas D. , Boll Daniel , Kollmar Otto , Delaloye Raphaël , Piscuoglio Salvatore , Heim Markus H.
Published: July 2022

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation (HCC-NED) is a very rare subtype of primary liver cancer. Treatment allocation in these patients therefore remains a challenge.

Methods

We report the case of a 74-year-old man with a HCC-NED. The tumor was surgically removed in curative intent. Histopathological work-up revealed poorly differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (Edmondson-Steiner grade IV) with diffuse expression of neuroendocrine markers synaptophysin and chromogranin. Three months after resection, multifocal recurrence of the HCC-NED was observed. In the meantime, tumor organoids have been generated from the resected HCC-NED and extensively characterized. Sensitivity to a number of drugs approved for the treatment of HCC or neuroendocrine carcinomas was tested in vitro.

Results

Based on the results of the in vitro drug screening, etoposide and carboplatin are used as first line palliative combination treatment. With genomic analysis revealing a NTRK1-mutation of unknown significance (kinase domain) and tumor organoids found to be sensitive to entrectinib, a pan-TRK inhibitor, the patient was treated with entrectinib as second line therapy. After only two weeks, treatment is discontinued due to deterioration of the patient’s general condition.

Conclusion

The rapid establishment of patient-derived tumor organoids allows in vitro drug testing and thereby personalized treatment choices, however clinical translation remains a challenge. To the best of our knowledge, this report provides a first proof-of-principle for using organoids for personalized medicine in this rare subtype of primary liver cancer.
OaAEP1-mediated PNA-protein conjugation enables erasable imaging of membrane proteins
Authors: Lu Zhangwei , Liu Yutong , Deng Yibing , Jia Bin , Ding Xuan , Zheng Peng , Li Zhe
Published: July 2022

A strict ligase covalently links a protein to a PNA, enabling erasable imaging of membrane proteins mediated by DNA origami.
Rapid access to organic triflates based on flash generation of unstable sulfonium triflates in flow
Authors: Takumi Masahiro , Sakaue Hodaka , Shibasaki Daiki , Nagaki Aiichiro
Published: July 2022

Flash (extremely fast) electrolysis in flow realized rapid generation of highly unstable arylbis(arylthio)sulfonium triflates, enabling one-flow access to vinyl triflates, short-lived oxocarbenium triflates and glycosyl triflates.
EPR-basedin situenzymatic activity detection of endogenous caspase-3 in apoptosis cell lysates
Authors: Liu Aokun , Kuang Jian , Zhou Yemian , Xu An , Tian Changlin , Yu Lu
Published: July 2022

An EPR “off/on” assay for sensitive detection and quantitative kinetic analysis of endogenous caspase-3 in apoptosis cell lysates.
Development of defective molybdenum oxides for photocatalysis, thermal catalysis, and photothermal catalysis
Authors: Ge Hao , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: July 2022

Defective HxMoO3−y with plasmonic features is applied for photocatalysis, thermal catalysis, and photothermal catalysis, enabling energy-saving chemical processes.
Hydrogen bonding-enabled gold catalysis: ligand effects in gold-catalyzed cycloisomerizations in hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP)
Authors: Tzouras Nikolaos V. , Gobbo Alberto , Pozsoni Nestor Bracho , Chalkidis Savvas G. , Bhandary Subhrajyoti , Van Hecke Kristof , Vougioukalakis Georgios C. , Nolan Steven P.
Published: July 2022

Hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) serves as a versatile solvent for activator-free, [AuCl(L)] catalysis.
Biological roles of sulfur dioxide and sulfite in the regulation of mitochondrial viscosity
Authors: Zhang Weijie , Lv Yunxia , Song Hongjun , Huo Fangjun , Zhang Yongbin , Yin Caixia
Published: July 2022

A viscosity-sensitive NIR fluorescent probe has been developed for the visualization of the cross-talk behavior between mitochondrial viscosity and SO2/SO32−.
Protective effects of oyster protein hydrolysates on alcohol-induced liver disease (ALD) in mice: based on the mechanism of anti-oxidative metabolism
Authors: Gao Song , Shi Jing , Wang Kai , Tan Yuqing , Hong Hui , Luo Yongkang
Published: July 2022

Oyster protein hydrolysates (OPH) could ameliorate alcohol-induced liver disease (ALD) by affecting oxidative metabolism in mice.
Recent advances in lignin-based carbon fibers (LCFs): precursors, fabrications, properties, and applications
Authors: Sun Shao-Chao , Xu Ying , Wen Jia-Long , Yuan Tong-Qi , Sun Run-Cang
Published: July 2022

The precursor formulations, fabrications, properties, and various applications of lignin-based carbon fibers (LCFs) since 2017 are reviewed.
Photo-mediated synthesis of 1,2-dideoxy-2-phosphinylated carbohydrates from glycals: the reduction of glycosyl radicals to glycosyl anions
Authors: Li Hai , Yu Kai-Cheng , Su Jia-Kun , Ouyang Wei , Fan Nai-Li , Hu Xiang-Guo
Published: July 2022

A metal-free, photo-mediated method for the synthesis of C2-phosphorylated carbohydrates has been developed, whose reaction mechanism consists of the reduction of a glycosyl radical to a glycosyl anion.
Construction of an “environment-friendly” CuBx@PU self-supporting electrode toward efficient seawater electrolysis
Authors: Zhang Yiran , Fu Chengyu , Weng Shuo , Lv Haiyang , Li Peng , Deng Shengwei , Hao Weiju
Published: July 2022

A series of high-efficiency CuBx-based bifunctional flexible polyurethane plastic electrodes are fabricated by mild electroless plating for durable electrolysis over 1 A cm−2 in seawater, which also promotes the degradation of polyurethane plastics.
Recent advances in microfluidic-based electroporation techniques for cell membranes
Authors: Wang Fei , Lin Shujing , Yu Zixian , Wang Yanpu , Zhang Di , Cao Chengxi , Wang Zhigang , Cui Daxiang , Chen Di
Published: July 2022

Advanced microfluidic devices for cell membrane electroporation play an important role in biotechnology.
Towards textile metamaterials: a pathway to auxeticity and tensegrity in a needle-punched nonwoven stiff felt
Authors: Verma Prateek , Smith Casey L. , Griffin Anselm C. , Shofner Meisha L.
Published: July 2022

The auxeticity of a stiff felt nonwoven was enhanced from its as-received (AR) state using a heated compression treatment (TR). Tensegrity elements in the structure, fiber columns and constrained fibers, were deemed responsible for its auxeticity.
Sceptrin–Au nano-aggregates (SANA) for overcoming drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria
Authors: An Jong Min , Kang Sangrim , Koh Chang Woo , Park Sungnam , Oh Myung Sook , Kim Dokyoung
Published: July 2022

One of the recent advances in medical nanotechnology has been the development of nanoformulations to overcome drug-resistant bacterial infections.
Possible neuroprotective effects of amide alkaloids from Bassia indica and Agathophora alopecuroides: in vitro and in silico investigations
Authors: Othman Ahmed , Sayed Ahmed M. , Amen Yhiya , Shimizu Kuniyoshi
Published: July 2022

Bassia indica and Agathophora alopecuroides could be utilized as potential sources of candidate compounds for the management of Alzheimer disease.
Insights into the effects of synthesis techniques and crosslinking agents on the characteristics of cellulosic aerogels from Water Hyacinth
Authors: Van Nguyen Thi Thuy , Yang Goh Xue , Phan Anh N. , Nguyen Tri , Ho Thanh Gia-Thien , Nguyen Son Truong , Ky Phuong Ha Huynh
Published: July 2022

Aerogel cellulose materials were synthesised from Water hyacinth and different crosslinkers, such as kymene and a mixture of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and glutaraldehyde (GA).
Experimental and computational approaches to study the chlorination mechanism of pentlandite with ammonium chloride
Authors: Xiong Xiaolu , Li Guangshi , Pang Zhongya , Chen Sha , Zou Xingli , Xu Qian , Cheng Hongwei , Li Shenggang , Zhu Kai , Lu Xionggang
Published: July 2022

The chlorination mechanism of pentlandite with NH4Cl has been proposed. The chlorination of pentlandite can be achieved by two pathways, where O2 plays a crucial role in promoting the chlorination process.
Dual Language Profiles in Spanish-Speaking English Learners
Authors: Su Pumpki Lei , Rojas Raúl , Iglesias Aquiles
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to identify and describe latent dual language profiles in a large sample of school-age Spanish–English bilingual children designated as English learners (ELs) by their school district.

Method:

Data for this study include 847 Spanish-speaking ELs from kindergarten to third grade. Spanish and English narrative retell language samples were collected from all participants. Four oral language measures were calculated in Spanish and English, including the subordination index, moving average type–token ratio, narrative structure scheme (NSS), and words per minute using Systematic Analysis of Language Transcript. These indicator measures were used in a latent profile analysis to identify dual language profiles.

Results:

The optimal model represents a four-profile solution, including a Spanish-dominant group (average Spanish, low English), an English-dominant group (low Spanish, average English), and two balanced groups (a balanced-average group and a balanced-high group). Additionally, participants displayed uneven performance across language domains and distinct patterns of unique strength or weakness in a specific domain in one of their two languages.

Conclusions:

Findings from this study highlight the large variability in English and Spanish oral language abilities in school-age Spanish-speaking ELs and suggest that a dichotomous classification of ELs versus English-proficient students may not be sufficient to determine the type of educational program that best fits a specific bilingual child's need. These findings highlight the need to assess both languages across multiple language domains to paint a representative picture of a bilingual child's language abilities. The dual language profiles identified may be used to guide the educational program selection process to improve the congruence among the linguistic needs of an individual child, teachers' use of instructional language, and the goals of the educational program (i.e., improving English proficiency vs. supporting dual language development).

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.20151836
New conditions for finite‐time stability of impulsive dynamical systems via piecewise quadratic functions
Authors: Ambrosino Roberto , Ariola Marco , Garone Emanuele , Amato Francesco , Tartaglione Gaetano
Published: July 2022

In this paper, the use of time‐varying piecewise quadratic functions is investigated to characterize the finite‐time stability of state‐dependent impulsive dynamical linear systems. Finite‐time stability defines the behavior of a dynamic system over a bounded time interval. More precisely, a system is said to be finite‐time stable if, given a set of initial conditions, its state vector does not exit a predefined domain for a certain finite interval of time. This paper presents new sufficient conditions for finite‐time stability based on time‐varying piecewise quadratic functions. These conditions can be reformulated as a set of Linear Matrix Inequalities that can be efficiently solved through convex optimization solvers. Different numerical analysis are included in order to prove that the presented conditions are able to improve the results presented so far in the literature.
Implementation and analysis of deflection switched reluctance generator for underwater flow generation applications
Authors: Li Zheng , Wang Xueting , Wei Xiaopeng , Liu Libo , Gao Menghai , Cheng Liyuan , Liu Mengjie , Liu Huixian , Sun Hexu
Published: July 2022

This paper proposes a dual‐stator switched reluctance generator (DSSRG) which can be applied to underwater power generation. DSSRG is connected with the propeller. When the propeller deflects, it can drive the generator to deflect for underwater power generation and improve the conversion efficiency of the motor. Firstly, taking the underwater propeller as the research object, the pressure and torque characteristics of the propeller at different deflection angles are studied by using CFX software. Then, the structure of DSSRG is modelled and analysed, and the voltage and current characteristics of DSSRG at different speeds and deflection angles are analysed. Finally, an underwater generator prototype is established to verify the rationality of the underwater DSSRG and the feasibility and stability of the power generation system.
A new environment-friendly magnetorheological finishing and fuzzy grey relation analysis in Ti-6Al-4V alloy polishing
Authors: Duy Nguyen Trinh , Tien Dung Hoang , Thoa Pham Thi Thieu
Published: July 2022

In this study, a naturally sourced cutting oil mixture using for the magnetorheological finishing (MRF) as an environmentally friendly carrier liquid. In addition, fuzzy grey relation analysis has been developed to predict and give optimal cutting parameters, the main factors affecting surface quality and material removal rate (MRR) identified. Experimental polishing procedures Ti-6Al-4V alloy were performed to confirm the availability of MRF models of the surface quality and MRR proposed. The fuzzy grey levels of elements to the polishing surface quality, namely the workpiece speed (nw), working distances (K), MRF carrier speed (nMRF) and feed rate (F), were 0.6983, 0.8057, 0.7818, and 0.7817, respectively. The analysis showed that the working distances (K) showed the most remarkable influence on the polishing effect, while the effect of workpiece speed (nw) was the least important. Microscopic observations significantly minimize scratches on the surface. This observation provides an excellent reference value for high surface quality and material removal rate when polishing Ti-6Al-4V alloys.
Repérage échographique du fœtus: évaluation prospective de l’impact d’un dispositif de formation continue des sages-femmes sur l’organisation des soins en salle de naissance
Authors: Rolin Justine , Corini Elisa , Michel Joanna , Hossu Gabriela , Gauchotte Emilie , Germain Jocelyn , Morel Olivier , Ambroise-Grandjean Gaëlle
Published: July 2022

Contexte: Le manque d’autonomie pour Évaluer l’impact d’un programme de formation continue destiné aux sages-femmes de salle de naissance (SF-SdN) sur les modalités de réalisation des échographies intrapartum (recours à un médecin et délais de prise en charge); 2) Evaluer la capacité des SF-SdN à pratiquer des échographies d’identification de la variété de position fœtale (Fetal Occiput Position – FOP) à l’issue de la formation. Méthodes: Des ateliers d’échographie d’une durée de trois heures comportant des exercices sur un simulateur de haute technologie et des cas cliniques ont été mis en œuvre dans le cadre de la formation continue des SF-SdN d’une maternité de niveau 3, de façon à former l’ensemble de l’équipe (n = 33). Une évaluation de type avant/après, sous forme d’audits permettant le recueil prospectif et systématique des échographies intrapartum (indication, identification des praticiens demandeurs et opérateurs, délai entre la décision de réaliser l’examen et la réalisation effective) a permis de quantifier l’impact de cette formation sur le nombre de recours au médecin de garde et sur les délais induits par ces recours. Pour les examens réalisés par les SF-SdN à l’issue de la formation, les proportions de FOP valides (variété de position confirmée par un second praticien) et non valides (erreur ou échec d’identification) ont été quantifiées. Résultats: Les données relatives à 72 (audit 1) et 50 échographies (audit 2) successives ont été recueillies respectivement avant et après la formation. Le nombre de recours rapporté au nombre d’examens avait significativement diminué après la formation (avant/après 80 % vs 32 % respectivement p < 0,01), les délais induits étaient également diminués (p < 0,01) avec une suppression des délais > 30 minutes pour l’audit 2 (I). La proportion de FOP valides à l’issue des ateliers était de 80 % (II). Conclusion: La formation systématique des SF-SdN à la pratique de l’échographie intrapartum permet d’optimiser les ressources en personnel (diminution des recours) et d’améliorer les soins (diminution des délais de prise en charge). L’utilisation large de la simulation dans ce cadre pourrait permettre de garantir la présence d’un praticien formé à l’échographie à proximité immédiate de toute patiente en travail.
Hüft-Totalendoprothese
Authors: Grasmück Jürgen , Buekens Jo
Published: July 2022

Die Implantation von Hüft-Totalendoprothesen ist eine der häufigsten
Operationen weltweit. Wir zeigen eine Möglichkeit auf, um die Struktur zu
behandeln, die für die Integration der Totalendoprothese eine
bestmögliche biologische Funktion aufweisen muss: der Knochen.
(−)-Epicatechin Reverses Glucose Intolerance in Rats Housed at Thermoneutrality
Authors: Chun Ji Hye , Henckel Melissa M. , Knaub Leslie A. , Hull Sara E. , Pott Greg B. , Ramirez David G. , Reusch Jane E.-B. , Keller Amy C.
Published: July 2022

Diabetes is a life-threatening and debilitating disease with pathological hallmarks, including glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Plant compounds are a source of novel and
effective therapeutics, and the flavonoid (−)-epicatechin, common to popular foods worldwide, has been shown to improve carbohydrate metabolism in both clinical studies and preclinical
models. We hypothesized that (−)-epicatechin would alleviate thermoneutral housing-induced glucose intolerance. Male rats were housed at either thermoneutral (30 °C) or room temperature
(24 °C) for 16 weeks and gavaged with either 1 mg/kg body weight or vehicle for the last 15 days before sacrifice. Rats housed at thermoneutrality had a significantly elevated serum glucose
area under the curve (p < 0.05) and reduced glucose-mediated insulin secretion. In contrast, rats at thermoneutrality treated with (−)-epicatechin had improved glucose tolerance and
increased insulin secretion (p < 0.05). Insulin tolerance tests revealed no differences in insulin sensitivity in any of the four groups. Pancreatic immunohistochemistry staining showed
significantly greater islet insulin positive cells in animals housed at thermoneutrality. In conclusion, (−)-epicatechin improved carbohydrate tolerance via increased insulin secretion in
response to glucose challenge without a change in insulin sensitivity.
Stage 1 Hypertension in Nulliparous Pregnant Patients and Risk of Unplanned Cesarean Delivery
Authors: Natenzon Anna , Parrott Caitlin W. , Manem Nihita , Zelig Craig M.
Published: July 2022

Objective The aim of the study is to determine whether stage 1 hypertension is a risk factor for cesarean at ≥390/7 weeks.

Study Design This is a retrospective cohort study of nulliparas delivering at ≥390/7weeks. Exposure was defined as stage 1 hypertension and compared with normotension. The primary outcome was unplanned cesarean. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 27.

Results Two hundred and fifty patients had stage 1 hypertension and 250 had normotension. Thirty-eight percent of the patients with stage 1 hypertension required cesarean as did 22% of controls (risk ratio [RR]=1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23–1.96, p <0.001). This remained significant after controlling for confounders in a logistic regression (odds ratio [OR]=1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–2.55, p <0.040). Upon secondary analysis, these results were statistically significant for gestational age ≥395/7 weeks (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=1.89, 95% CI: 1.05–3.39, p=0.033) but not from 390/7 to 394/7weeks (AOR=0.68, 95% CI: 0.31–1.50, p=0.34).

Conclusion In nulliparas, stage 1 hypertension is an independent risk factor for unplanned cesarean.

Key Points
No Differences in Cerebral Immunohistochemical Markers following Remote Ischemic Postconditioning in Newborn Piglets with Hypoxia–Ischemia
Authors: Andersen Hannah B. , Andersen Mads , Bennedsgaard Kristine , Kerrn-Jespersen Sigrid , Kyng Kasper J. , Holm Ida E. , Henriksen Tine B.
Published: July 2022

Background Despite therapeutic hypothermia, neonates with hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy still develop neurological disabilities. We have previously investigated neuroprotection by remote ischemic postconditioning (RIPC) in newborn piglets following hypoxia–ischemia (HI). The aim of this study was to further investigate potential effects of RIPC on cerebral immunohistochemical markers related to edema, apoptosis, and angiogenesis.

Methods Brain expression of aquaporin 4, caspase-3, B-cell lymphoma 2, and vascular endothelial growth factor was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in 23 piglets, randomly selected from a larger study of RIPC after HI. Twenty animals were subjected to 45 minutes of HI and randomized to treatment with and without RIPC, while three animals were randomized to sham procedures. RIPC was conducted by four conditioning cycles of 5-minute ischemia and reperfusion. Piglets were euthanized 72 hours after the HI insult.

Results Piglets subjected to HI treated with and without RIPC were similar at baseline and following the HI insult. However, piglets randomized to HI alone had longer duration of low blood pressure during the insult. We found no differences in the brain expression of the immunohistochemical markers in any regions of interest or the whole brain between the two HI groups.

Conclusion RIPC did not influence brain expression of markers related to edema, apoptosis, or angiogenesis in newborn piglets at 72 hours after HI. These results support previous findings of limited neuroprotective effect by this RIPC protocol. Our results may have been affected by the time of assessment, use of fentanyl as anesthetic, or limitations related to our immunohistochemical methods.
The Role of the Three-Dimensional Edge-Enhancing Gradient Echo Sequence at 3T MRI in the Detection of Focal Cortical Dysplasia: A Technical Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Abula Yaeraili , Abulimiti Ailanuer , Liu ZhengQing , Yimiti Yasen , Abula Yaermaimaiti , Jiang Lei , Wang YunLing , Kasimu Maimaitijiang
Published: July 2022

Introduction Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a most common cause of intractable focal epilepsy in children. Surgery is considered as a radical option for such patients with the prerequisite of lesion detection. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a significant role in detection of FCDs in epilepsy patients; however, the detection of FCDs even in epilepsy dedicated MRI sequence shows relatively low positive rate. Last year, Middlebrooks et al introduced the novel three-dimensional Edge-Enhancing Gradient Echo (3D-EDGE) MRI sequence and using this sequence successfully identified five cases of FCDs which indicates its potential role in those epilepsy patients who may have FCDs.

Case Presentation We present a 14-year-old, right-handed, male patient who has suffered from drug-resistant epilepsy over the past 3 years. It was unable to localize the lesion of the seizure, even using the series of epilepsy dedicated MRI sequences. Inspired by the previous report, the lesion of the seizure was successfully targeted by 3D-EDGE sequence. Combined with intraoperative navigation and precisely removed the lesion. He was uneventfully recovered with no signs of cerebral dysfunction and no seizure recurrence 8 months after surgery.

Conclusion The 3D-EDGE sequences show a higher sensitivity for FCD detection in epilepsy patients compared with a series of epilepsy-dedicated MRI protocols. We confirmed that the study by Middlebrooks et al is of great clinical value. If the findings on routine MRI sequences or even epilepsy-dedicated MRI sequences were reported as negative, however, the semiology, video-electroencephalography, and fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography results suggest a local abnormality, and the results are concordant with each other, a 3D-EDGE sequence may be a good option.
One-Pot Synthesis of 2-Arylquinolines via in situ Acid Catalysis
Authors: Feng Lei , Ma Chen , Han Qiang , Li Shichen , Cai Zepeng , Ding Chengcheng
Published: July 2022

A simple, efficient, and practical protocol is reported, allowing quick access to diverse 2-arylquinolines from 2-vinylanilines and benzyl halides. This reaction is additive and metal catalyst-free with only solvent needed. A preliminary mechanistic investigation discloses the driving force comes from the in situ released HBr, which catalyzes the subsequent cyclization. The present synthetic route featured high functional group tolerance and simple post-processing. A variety of 2-arylquinolines were obtained up to 96% yield.
Incidence of Aflatoxin in Ready to Eat Nuts from Local Food Markets in Mangaluru, India
Authors: Juliet Roshani Mohan Raj , Anshida Miyapadavu , Mamatha Bangera Sheshappa , Akhila Dharnappa Sannejal , Vittal Rajeshwari
Published: July 2022

Background and Objective Aflatoxins are a group of naturally occurring mycotoxin which are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain filamentous fungi like Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. The main objective of this study was to screen the occurrence of aflatoxin in ready to eat nuts available locally and analyzing for its nutritive value and to evaluate the efficiency of conventional (thin-layer chromatography [TLC]) and sensitive kit-based (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]) method by detection of the aflatoxin in the sample.

Methods A total of 50 samples including peanuts (10), cashew nuts (10), almonds (10), pistachio (10), and walnuts (10) were collected from different stores in Mangalore city. Each sample was divided into three fractions, as for microbiological analysis, proximate analysis, and detection of aflatoxin by following standard method (AOAC2000).

Results The present study evidenced the contamination of aflatoxin in all of the five types of ready-to-eat nuts examined and the concentration was within the acceptable limits. But, among the samples analyzed, G10 (groundnut) showed a maximum concentration of 16 µg/L aflatoxin detected by ELISA method. It was also observed that the proximate analysis mainly moisture content did not affect aflatoxin accumulation.

Conclusion Our study shows that aflatoxin contamination of food products has become a serious threat. Although several methods for detection and quantification of toxins have been developed, due to their low concentration of toxicity in food commodities, an analytical method for detection and quantification of aflatoxin have to be specific, sensitive, and simple to carry out and among TLC and ELISA, ELISA came out as a suitable for rapid and sensitive detection.
Right Ventricular Recovery: Early and Late Changes after Acute PE Diagnosis
Authors: Bejjani Antoine , Khairani Candrika D. , Piazza Gregory
Published: July 2022

Right ventricular (RV) failure is a critical cause of morbidity and mortality in patients presenting with pulmonary embolism (PE). The presentation of RV failure is based on the combination of clinical findings, laboratory abnormalities, and imaging evidence. An improved understanding of the pathophysiology of RV dysfunction following PE has given rise to more accurate risk stratification and broader therapeutic approaches. A subset of patients with PE develop chronic RV dysfunction with or without pulmonary hypertension. In this review, we focus on the impact of PE on the RV and its implications for risk stratification, prognosis, acute management, and long-term therapy.
Study on Satisfaction of Students Regarding Online Classes in a Selected College of Nursing, Mangalore
Authors: Mariya Christeena G. , Joseph Ansa , Marina Ashune , Jesly M.K. , Veronica M. , Sabeena M.T.P.
Published: July 2022

Background of the Study The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic affected India in March 2020. The Government of India's enforced country-wide lockdown has been extended several times. Because schools and colleges are crowded places where infection can easily spread from person to person, our country's respective states mandated online classes out of concern for their academic studies as well as the continuation of the medical and nursing care systems. Medical and nursing students use applications such as Impartus, Zoom, and Google Meet to supplement formal classroom learning. Preventive measures become the best way to prevent infection and are important in saving one from being infected by the virus. Thus, students had experience of online classes in the first wave of the pandemic. Though there was a reopening of institutions for a short period of time and offline classes were resumed toward the end of the year, due to the second wave, institutions were again forced to get back to online classes.

Methods A descriptive design was used in this study. The sample size of 387 nursing students was selected by an online random sampling technique to identify the level of satisfaction of students regarding online classes. Data were gathered using a rating scale and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. The result shows that 49.35% of students were moderately dissatisfied, 38% were moderately satisfied, 6.20% were highly satisfied, and 6.45% were highly dissatisfied with regard to the online classes.

Results and Conclusion Online learning is an important means of education when there are constraints like physical, geographical, and other health-related problems. Yet it is vitally important to know the response of the learners, at least in the initial stage of introducing them into an institution. The results of the present assessment show that 49.35% of students were moderately dissatisfied. It proved that students are not really happy with online classes due to the underlining factors like network issues, lack of interaction between the students and lecturers, lack of course organization, and time factors.
Challenging Management of Large Aggressive Fibromatosis of the Anterior Abdominal Wall: A Case Report
Authors: Salah Rhita , Mokhtari Kamal El , Bennis Azzelarab , Benchakroun Mohamed , Zine Ali , Tanane Mansour , Bouabid Salim
Published: July 2022

Aggressive fibromatosis is a rare and benign tumor of soft tissues, locally invasive but never metastasizes. This proliferation arises in musculoaponeurotic structures. It is more common in young fertile women due to hormonal influences. Radical resection with free margins is the key to an effective outcome. We present here the case of a 47-year-old woman, without medical history, who was referred to our hospital for a painful swelling of the left iliac fossa, diagnosed with aggressive fibromatosis of the anterior abdominal wall based on radiological and histological findings. She underwent an excision of the mass with free margins followed by reconstruction of the musculo-fascial defect. After a follow-up of 12 months, there was no evidence of recurrence. Management of aggressive fibromatosis remains a challenge for surgeons. Complete excision of the tumor followed by reconstruction of abdominal wall defect is the first choice of treatment.
Barriers and Facilitators of Physical Activity
Authors: Mbabazi Johnson , Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem , Kunonga Edward , Tolchard Barry , Nnyanzi Lawrence Achilles
Published: July 2022

Background Physical inactivity accounts for 16.6% of deaths in the United Kingdom. This study aims to review the recent (2016–2021) systematic reviews (SRs) on the facilitators and barriers to physical activity (PA) participation among (UK)-based adults.

Methods Using the Participants, Interventions, Comparators, and Outcomes framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses strategy, a SR of SRs of studies on the facilitators and barriers to PA among (UK)-based adults, published between 2016 and December 3, 2021, in the PubMed, SCOPUS, or Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, was done.

Results Three SRs (each published in 2016, 2019, and 2021) were included and reviewed in the study. None of the reviewed SR included a study conducted during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic; also, a paucity of primary studies on PA among (UK)-based adult black, Asian, and ethnic minorities populations was recorded. Having a knowledge/appreciation of the benefits of PA, having the opportunity for social interaction/participation and PA-related support, and having a safe environment for PA were the persistently reported facilitators to PA among (UK)-based adults. On the other hand, having language difficulties/language barrier, lack of time, and having underlying health problems were the persistently reported barriers to PA among them. Not all the included SRs received project funding.

Conclusion The outcomes of this study had identified contemporary research gaps regarding the current challenges related to PA among (UK)-based adults. It is a fact that COVID-19 has come to stay in the (UK) and, as a result, it has affected ways of living, especially PA; hence, there is an imminent need for a SR to collate current primary evidence, with regards to the COVID-19 pandemic, on the facilitators and barriers of PA among (UK)-based adults.
What merits greater scholarly attention in international business?
Authors: Grøgaard Birgitte , Sartor Michael A. , Rademaker Linda
Published: July 2022

Scholarly efforts to propose future directions for international business (IB) research have generated a timely and extensive inventory of potentially interesting areas of research. We supplement this line of inquiry by suggesting that an additional layer of scrutiny could be beneficial when advocating in favor of giving more attention to particular research realms. Specifically, we advance several guiding principles that will help IB scholars assess which research areas merit greater scholarly attention, based on their potential importance and impact. We distinguish between (1) research in new or underdeveloped research domains, where salience, urgency, and actionability are critical elements, and (2) new research in relatively well-established domains, where scholars may contribute to changing the theoretical conversations taking place in IB.
A step-by-step guide to perform x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Greczynski Grzegorz , Hultman Lars
Published: July 2022

There is a growing concern within the surface science community that the massive increase in the number of XPS articles over the last few decades is accompanied by a decrease in work quality including in many cases meaningless chemical bond assignment. Should this trend continue, it would have disastrous consequences for scientific research. While there are many factors responsible for this situation, the lack of insight of physical principles combined with seeming ease of XPS operation and insufficient training are certainly the major ones. To counter that, we offer a comprehensive tutorial written in the form of a step-by-step guide starting from experimental planning, through sample selection and handling, instrument setup, data acquisition, spectra analysis, and results presentation. Six application examples highlight the broad range of research questions that can be answered by XPS. The topic selection and the discussion level are intended to be accessible for novices yet challenging possible preconceptions of experienced practitioners. The analyses of thin film samples are chosen for model cases as this is from where the bulk of XPS reports presently emanate and also where the author's key expertise lies. At the same time, the majority of discussed topics is applicable to surface science in general and is, thus, of relevance for the analyses of any type of sample and material class. The tutorial contains ca. 160 original spectra and over 290 references for further reading. Particular attention is paid to the correct workflow, development of good research practices, and solid knowledge of factors that impact the quality and reliability of the obtained information. What matters in the end is that the conclusions from the analysis can be trusted. Our aspiration is that after reading this tutorial each practitioner will be able to perform error-free data analysis and draw meaningful insights from the rich well of XPS.
The impact of ion mobility coefficients on plasma discharge characteristics
Authors: Wang Wen-Hua , Zhao Shu-Xia , Dai Zhong-Ling
Published: July 2022

In this paper, the high-accuracy ion mobility coefficient based on the Chapman–Enskog approximation to the solution of the Boltzmann equation for low pressure radio frequency plasma discharges is presented. We employ two-dimensional fluid simulations of the argon filled axisymmetric reactor, where the effect of new ion-kinetics-based fluid closure is compared to theoretical expressions and experimental data. The spatial profiles of plasma composition in the low pressure radio frequency capacitively coupled plasma are presented, which includes the metastable reactions in the simulation. Moreover, inelastic collision integrals terms, due to charge exchange inelastic collisions between ions and neutral species, have been also considered. A Monte Carlo simulation of kinetic ion energy distribution of impinging on the radio frequency powered electrode provides a measure of accuracy of the new transport model. From our simulation, the results that mirror the influence of ion mobility coefficient obtained by the Chapman–Enskog method on plasma physical quantities under different pressures, frequencies, and electrode gaps is in good agreement with experimental measurement results and theoretical expressions.
Research on the influence of inductive wear particle sensor coils on debris detection
Authors: Huang Heng , He Shizhong , Xie Xiaopeng , Feng Wei , Zhen Huanyi , Tao Hui
Published: July 2022

The debris detection characteristics of the inductive wear monitoring are researched by the method of combining theoretical research and simulation analysis in this paper. The mathematical model of the change in inductance is established based on the change in the coil magnetic field by the abrasive particles. By the COMSOL simulation software, the physical model of the three-coil wear monitoring is established, and the influence of the coil structure parameters on the output induced electromotance is compared and analyzed, resulting in the optimization of the coil parameters. For metal particles with different properties and sizes, the changes in the induced electromotance during the process of passing through the coil are analyzed, obtaining the mapping relationship between each particle size and the output induced electromotance. The simulation results show that the output voltage corresponding to the particles is related to the coil structure parameters, and the larger the particle size, the larger the output voltage. Finally, through experiments, the designed sensor coil structure has been proved to have a better detection effect on metal particles, realizing the detection of ferromagnetic abrasive particles above 100 µm and non-ferromagnetic abrasive particles above 200 µm.
Mixing in anharmonic potential well
Authors: Moreno M. , Rioseco P. , Van Den Bosch H.
Published: July 2022

We prove phase-space mixing for solutions to Liouville’s equation for integrable systems. Under a natural non-harmonicity condition, we obtain weak convergence of the distribution function with rate ⟨time⟩−1. In one dimension, we also study the case where this condition fails at a certain energy, showing that mixing still holds but with a slower rate. When the condition holds and functions have higher regularity, the rate can be faster.
Existence, structure, and robustness of ground states of a NLSE in 3D with a point defect
Authors: Adami Riccardo , Boni Filippo , Carlone Raffaele , Tentarelli Lorenzo
Published: July 2022

We study the ground states for the Schrödinger equation with a focusing nonlinearity and a point interaction in dimension three. We establish that ground states exist for every value of the mass; moreover, they are positive, radially symmetric, and decreasing along the radial direction and show a Coulombian singularity at the location of the point interaction. Remarkably, the existence of the ground states is independent of the attractive or repulsive character of the point interaction.
A nonlinear model of diffusive particle acceleration at a planar shock
Authors: Walter Dominik , Effenberger Frederic , Fichtner Horst , Litvinenko Yuri
Published: July 2022

We study the process of nonlinear shock acceleration based on a nonlinear diffusion–advection equation. The nonlinearity is introduced via a dependence of the spatial diffusion coefficient on the distribution function of accelerating particles. This dependence reflects the interaction of energetic particles with self-generated waves. After thoroughly testing the grid-based numerical setup with a well-known analytical solution for linear shock acceleration at a specific shock transition, we consider different nonlinear scenarios, assess the influence of various parameters, and discuss the differences of the solutions to those of the linear case. We focus on the following observable features of the acceleration process, for which we quantify the differences in the linear and nonlinear cases: (1) the shape of the momentum spectra of the accelerated particles, (2) the time evolution of the solutions, and (3) the spatial number density profiles.
Prediction of polymer extension, drag reduction, and vortex interaction in direct numerical simulation of turbulent channel flows
Authors: Mortimer L. F. , Fairweather M.
Published: July 2022

Hydrodynamic and viscoelastic interactions between the turbulent fluid within a channel at Reτ=180 and a polymeric phase are investigated numerically using a multiscale hybrid approach. Direct numerical simulations are performed to predict the continuous phase and Brownian dynamics simulations using the finitely extensible nonlinear elastic dumbbell approach are carried out to model the trajectories of polymer extension vectors within the flow, using parallel computations to achieve reasonable computation timeframes on large-scale flows. Upon validating the polymeric configuration solver against theoretical predictions in equilibrium conditions, with excellent agreement observed, the distributions of velocity gradient tensor components are analyzed throughout the channel flow wall-normal regions. Impact on polymer stretching is discussed, with streamwise extension dominant close to the wall, and wall-normal extension driven by high streamwise gradients of wall-normal velocity. In this case, it is shown that chains already possessing high wall-normal extensions may attempt to orientate more in the streamwise direction, causing a curling effect. These effects are observed in instantaneous snapshots of polymer extension, and the effects of the bulk Weissenberg number show that increased WeB leads to more stretched configurations and more streamwise orientated conformities close to the wall, whereas, in the bulk flow and log-law regions, the polymers tend to trace fluid turbulence structures. Chain orientation angles are also considered, with WeB demonstrating little influence on the isotropic distributions in the log-law and bulk flow regions. Polymer–fluid coupling is implemented through a polymer contribution to the viscoelastic stress tensor. The effect of the polymer relaxation time on the turbulent drag reduction is discussed, with greater Weissenberg numbers leading to more impactful reduction. Finally, the velocity gradient tensor invariants are calculated for the drag-reduced flows, with polymers having a significant impact on the Q–R phase diagrams, with the presence of polymers narrowing the range of R values in the wall regions and causing flow structures to become more two-dimensional.
Pore-scale study of the effect of bifurcated fracture on spontaneous imbibition in heterogeneous porous media
Authors: He Zhennan , Liang Fachun , Meng Jia
Published: July 2022

Fracturing is an important technique to improve the remediation of low permeability soils and heterogeneous soils, which produce a fracture system with obvious bifurcation characteristics. Understanding the interaction mechanism between bifurcated fractures and matrix can help further enhance the beneficial effect of fracturing on soil remediation. In this study, the coupled Cahn–Hilliard phase field method and Navier–Stokes equations were solved using the finite element solver COMSOL Multiphysics to capture the oil–water interface evolution during the dynamic imbibition process in a 2D realistic pore geometry with different bifurcation fracture morphologies. The results show that the spontaneous imbibition process of the single fracture model is divided into the blocking regime and the discharging regime, while an additional connecting regime exists in the bifurcated fracture model. The growing pressure near the inlet under the blocking regime and the connecting regime is responsible for the higher remediation efficiency in the left part of the matrix. Due to the snap-off phenomenon of the oil plug expelled by the bifurcated fracture, the remediation efficiency curve shows a periodic fluctuation trend. Compared with the single fracture model, the ultimate remediation efficiency in the model with a secondary fracture and that with a tertiary fracture is improved by 30% and 33%, respectively. These results shed light upon the imbibition mechanism in a heterogeneous porous media with bifurcated fracture, which can provide guidance for the development of enhancement strategies in soil remediation.