bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triboelectric nanogenerators and piezoelectric nanogenerators for preventing and treating heart diseases
Authors: Zhao Luming , Wong Siew Yee , Sim Jia Yu , Zhou Jin , Li Xu , Wang Changyong
Published: April 2023

Heart diseases pose a serious threat to human health, and their incidence has been increasing in recent years. In past decades, many strategies have been developed to decrease the mortality and morbidity of heart diseases, among them, strategies involving cardiac electronic devices (CEDs) have been effective in treating and preventing heart diseases. To allow the CEDs to work continuously without the need to replace batteries and to meet the requirements of convenience and comfort in the process of use, nanogenerator (NG)‐based CEDs were proposed, widely studied, continuously optimized in recent years owing to their advantages of small dimensions, self‐powering ability, and good biocompatibility. In this review, recent improvements of NG‐based CEDs of two typical types (i.e., triboelectric nanogenerator [TENG] and piezoelectric nanogenerator [PENG]) and their structures and functions are summarized and discussed. The demands, remaining challenges, and future development trends of NG‐based CEDs are also discussed.
Optical coherence tomography in patients with Wilson's disease
Authors: Ning Wei‐Qin , Lyu Chun‐Xiao , Diao Sheng‐Peng , Huang Ye‐Qing , Liu Ai‐Qun , Yu Qing‐Yun , Peng Zhong‐Xing , Hong Ming‐Fan , Zhou Zhi‐Hua
Published: April 2023

Background

Morphological changes of retina in patients with Wilson's disease (WD) can be found by optical coherence tomography (OCT), and such changes had significant differences between neurological forms (NWD) and hepatic forms (HWD) of WD. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between morphological parameters of retina and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesions, course of disease, type of disease, and sexuality in WD.

Methods

A total of 46 WD patients and 40 health controls (HC) were recruited in this study. A total of 42 WD patients were divided into different groups according to clinical manifestations, course of disease, sexuality, and brain MRI lesions. We employed the Global Assessment Scale to assess neurological severity of WD patients. All WD patients and HC underwent retinal OCT to assess the thickness of inner limiting membrane (ILM) layer to retinal pigment epithelium layer and inner retina layer (ILM to inner plexiform layer, ILM–IPL).

Results

Compared to HWD, NWD had thinner superior parafovea zone (108.07 ± 6.89 vs. 114.40 ± 5.54 μm, p < .01), temporal parafovea zone (97.17 ± 6.65 vs. 103.60 ± 4.53 μm, p < .01), inferior parafovea zone (108.114 ± 7.65 vs. 114.93 ± 5.84 μm, p < .01), and nasal parafovea zone (105.53 ± 8.01 vs. 112.10 ± 5.44 μm, p < .01) in inner retina layer. Course of disease influenced the retina thickness. Male patients had thinner inner retina layer compared to female patients.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that WD had thinner inner retina layer compared to HC, and NWD had thinner inner retina layer compared to HWD. We speculated the thickness of inner retina layer may be a potential useful biomarker for NWD.
Small‐Molecule Modulation of Protein Lipidation: From Chemical Probes to Therapeutics
Authors: Wang Zhen , Ying Jiafu , Zhang Xuanpu , Miao Chen , Xiao Yu , Zou Jie , Chen Baoen
Published: April 2023

Protein lipidation is a widespread modification that regulates protein subcellular localization, structure and function. Dysregulation of protein lipidation has been implicated in various human diseases, including neurological disorders, infectious diseases and cancers. Thus lipid‐modifying enzymes and their substrate proteins are emerging as attractive drug targets. The development of small‐molecule modulators of protein lipidation has remarkably impacted our understanding of lipid‐modification biology and potential therapeutics. In this review, we summarize recent progress in small‐molecule targeting of protein lipidation and highlight therapeutic opportunities.
Where is the Macrocycle? Comment on “Simultaneous Organic and Inorganic Host‐Guest Chemistry within Pillararene‐Protein Cage Frameworks.”
Authors: Crowley Peter B.
Published: April 2023

Kostiainen and co‐workers claim to have prepared crystals of ferritin by “electrostatically bridging” the protein with a cationic pillar[5]arene. Questions remain regarding the contribution of the pillar[5]arene to protein assembly and the putative role as a molecular glue.
Platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio a potential prognosticator in acute myocardial infarction: A prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Wang Hongling , Li Li , Ma Yi
Published: April 2023

Background

The ratio of platelets to lymphocytes (PLR) can serve as a potential biomarker for predicting the prognosis of individuals with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Aim

The purpose of the research was to evaluate the in‐hospital outcomes of AMI patients and the predictive significance of PLR on major adverse cardiac events (MACE).

Methods

A total of 799 AMI patients who had successful primary PCI within 12 h of the onset of chest pain were separated into low PLR (n = 511) and high PLR (n = 288) groups using a PLR cutoff value of 178. At admission, total white blood cell, neutrophil, lymphocyte, and platelet counts were assessed.

Results

In patients with a high PLR group with PLR > 178, the incidence of MACE: heart rupture, acute heart failure, total adverse events, and mortality due to all events was considerably greater. In an analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curve, a high PLR > 178 accurately predicted adverse outcomes (73% specificity and 65% sensitivity). Age, hypertension, and PLR were found as independent predictors of adverse outcomes by multiple logistic regression.

Conclusions

AMI patients with high PLR had poor hospital outcomes. These findings recommend PLR as an independent risk factor for hospital‐acquired complications, suggesting that inflammation and prothrombotic state may contribute to the poor prognosis of high PLR patients.
One fixed dosing of a poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase inhibitor does not fit all
Authors: Lee Jung‐Min , Liu Joyce F.
Published: April 2023

Optimization of poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase inhibitor dosing is important for maximizing the side effect and safety profile without attenuating the clinical benefit. Individualized dosing of niraparib as first‐line maintenance therapy for newly diagnosed ovarian cancer decreases adverse events while maintaining efficacy and should be considered for patients receiving niraparib in this setting.
Prospective evaluation of the tolerability and efficacy of niraparib dosing based on baseline body weight and platelet count: Results from the PRIMA/ENGOT‐OV26/GOG‐3012 trial
Authors: Mirza Mansoor R. , González‐Martín Antonio , Graybill Whitney S. , O’Malley David M. , Gaba Lydia , Stephanie Yap Oi Wah , Guerra Eva M. , Rose Peter G. , Baurain Jean‐François , Ghamande Sharad A. , Denys Hannelore , Prendergast Emily , Pisano Carmela , Follana Philippe , Baumann Klaus , Calvert Paula M. , Korach Jacob , Li Yong , Malinowska Izabela A. , Gupta Divya , Monk Bradley J.
Published: April 2023

Background

The PRIMA/ENGOT‐OV26/GOG‐3012 (NCT02655016) trial was amended to prospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of an individualized starting dose (ISD) regimen of niraparib for first‐line maintenance therapy in patients with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer.

Methods

In the phase 3 PRIMA trial, patients with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer with a complete/partial response to first‐line platinum‐based chemotherapy (N = 733) were initially treated with a fixed starting dose (FSD) regimen of 300 mg once daily. Subsequently, the protocol was amended so newly enrolled patients received an ISD: 200 mg once daily in patients with baseline body weight < 77 kg or baseline platelet count < 150,000/µL, and 300 mg once daily in all other patients. Efficacy and safety outcomes were assessed by starting dose.

Results

Overall, 475 (64.8%) patients were assigned to an FSD (niraparib, n = 317; placebo, n = 158) and 258 (35.2%) were assigned to an ISD (niraparib, n = 170; placebo, n = 88). Efficacy in patients who received FSD or ISD was similar for the overall (FSD hazard ratio [HR], 0.59 [95% CI, 0.46–0.76] vs. ISD HR, 0.69 [95% CI, 0.48–0.98]) and the homologous recombination–deficient (FSD HR, 0.44 [95% CI, 0.30–0.64] vs. ISD HR, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.22–0.72]) populations. In patients with low body weight/platelet count, rates of grades ≥3 and 4 hematologic treatment‐emergent adverse events, dose interruptions, and dose reductions were lower for those who received ISD than for those who received FSD.

Conclusions

In PRIMA, similar dose intensity, similar efficacy, and improved safety were observed with the ISD compared with the FSD regimen.
Maximizing sampling efficiency to detect differences in fish community composition using environmental DNA metabarcoding in subarctic fjords
Authors: Guri Gledis , Westgaard Jon‐Ivar , Yoccoz Nigel , Wangensteen Owen S. , Præbel Kim , Ray Jessica Louise , Kelly Ryan P. , Shelton Andrew Olaf , Hanebrekke Tanja , Johansen Torild
Published: April 2023

Environmental DNA (eDNA) has gained popularity as a tool for ecosystem biomonitoring and biodiversity assessment. Although much progress has been made regarding laboratory and fieldwork protocols, the issue of sampling efficiency requires further investigation, particularly in three‐dimensional marine systems. This study focuses on fish community composition in marine ecosystems and aims to analyze the efficiency of sampling design given the sampling effort for distinguishing between different communities. We sampled three fjords in Northern Norway, taking samples along fjord transects and at three different depths, and amplified a fragment of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene of bony fishes using the MiFish primers. We evaluated the effect of (i) the number of sampling stations, (ii) samples' spatial distribution, and (iii) the data treatment approach (presence/absence versus semiquantitative) for maximizing the efficiency of eDNA metabarcoding sampling when inferring differences of fish community compositions between fjords. We found that the manner of data treatment strongly affected the minimum number of sampling stations required to detect differences among communities; because the semiquantitative approach retained some information about abundance of the underlying reads, it was the most efficient. Furthermore, we found little‐to‐no difference of fish communities in samples from intermediate depths when comparing vertical fish communities. Lastly, we found that the differences between fish communities at the surface were the highest across the horizontal distance and overall, samples ~30 km apart showed the highest variation in the horizontal distribution. Boosting sampling efficiency (reducing sampling effort without compromising ecological inferences) can significantly contribute to enhanced biodiversity management and efficient biomonitoring plans.
Impact of multimorbidity on mortality in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: which comorbidities matter most? An analysis of PARADIGM‐HF and ATMOSPHERE
Authors: Dewan Pooja , Ferreira João Pedro , Butt Jawad H. , Petrie Mark C. , Abraham William T. , Desai Akshay S. , Dickstein Kenneth , Køber Lars , Packer Milton , Rouleau Jean L. , Stewart Simon , Swedberg Karl , Zile Michael R. , Solomon Scott D. , Jhund Pardeep S. , McMurray John J.V.
Published: April 2023

Aims

Multimorbidity, the coexistence of two or more chronic conditions, is synonymous with heart failure (HF). How risk related to comorbidities compares at individual and population levels is unknown. The aim of this study is to examine the risk related to comorbidities, alone and in combination, both at individual and population levels.

Methods and results

Using two clinical trials in HF – the Prospective comparison of ARNI (Angiotensin Receptor–Neprilysin Inhibitor) with ACEI (Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitor) to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and morbidity in HF trial (PARADIGM‐HF) and the Aliskiren Trial to Minimize Outcomes in Patients with Heart Failure trials (ATMOSPHERE) – we identified the 10 most common comorbidities and examined 45 possible pairs. We calculated population attributable fractions (PAF) for all‐cause death and relative excess risk due to interaction with Cox proportional hazard models. Of 15 066 patients in the study, 14 133 (93.7%) had at least one and 11 867 (78.8%) had at least two of the 10 most prevalent comorbidities. The greatest individual risk among pairs was associated with peripheral artery disease (PAD) in combination with stroke (hazard ratio [HR] 1.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.28–2.33) and anaemia (HR 1.71; 95% CI 1.39–2.11). The combination of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension had the highest PAF (5.65%; 95% CI 3.66–7.61). Two pairs demonstrated significant synergistic interaction (atrial fibrillation with CKD and coronary artery disease, respectively) and one an antagonistic interaction (anaemia and obesity).

Conclusions

In HF, the impact of multimorbidity differed at the individual patient and population level, depending on the prevalence of and the risk related to each comorbidity, and the interaction between individual comorbidities. Patients with coexistent PAD and stroke were at greatest individual risk whereas, from a population perspective, coexistent CKD and hypertension mattered most.
Microwave–vacuum extraction cum drying of tomato slices: Optimization and functional characterization
Authors: Alvi Tayyaba , Khan Muhammad Kashif Iqbal , Maan Abid Aslam , Rizwan Muhammad , Aamir Muhammad , Saeed Farhan , Ateeq Huda , Raza Muhammad Qasim , Afzaal Muhammad , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: April 2023

Fruits and vegetables have shorter shelf life due to their perishable nature. Tomato, being a nutritionally rich fruit needs to be preserved for a longer period. In this context, this study was designed to dry the tomato slices through microwave–vacuum drying. This process was optimized for moisture ratio and drying rate using response surface methodology (RSM). The process was investigated at different power levels (30, 50, 80, and 100 W), pressure (0, 15, 20, and 25 inHg), and time (0, 4, 6, and 10 min) using Box–Behnken design. Results indicated that color, energy efficiency, and drying characteristics were significantly affected by changing power, vacuum levels, and processing time. Besides, nine mathematical models were applied on experimental data to deeply understand the moisture ratio of tomato slices. Amongst, Midilli model was found best to describe the drying process at 100 W and 25 inHg supported by R2 (0.9989), RMSE (0.001), and X2 (1.34e−4). This study was focused on finding the optimal combinations of power, vacuum pressure, and time for better drying and reduced wastage of the fruit owing to its perishable nature. From all the microwave powers, higher microwave power and vacuum level showed better energy consumption, energy efficiencies, color retention, and rehydration capacity.
Innovations and challenges in design and construction of underground Mumbai Metro Line 3 – Lot UG‐04 and UG‐06
Authors: Srivastava Ashish , Trivedi Suyash , Khateeb Ateeq , Muniyappa Prathap , Grewal Harsimran , Gupta Navneet , Ramalingam Rakesh
Published: April 2023

India is well on its way to create a world‐class Mass Rapid Transport system environment as an integral part of community infrastructure development. Mumbai Metro Line 3 is one such project being constructed in Mumbai city. It comprises 33.5 km‐long underground metro corridor running along Colaba to Bandra to Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone. It includes 27 stations (26 underground and 1 at grade), depot and associated twin‐tube tunnel. Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd., an affiliate organisation of Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, is responsible for the implementation of the project. Excavation and tunnelling works posed significant challenges as they cross densely inhabited zones of Mumbai. There were several buildings which were old and in delicate condition, many of which were heritage structures. In Mumbai – being a coastal city – the water table is almost at ground level which added to complications. There were several utilities, many of which were lifeline utilities, which could not be diverted or even closed, thus requiring support during excavation. Likewise, ensuring traffic movement with minimal disruptions with enormous excavation works for the project required several innovative solutions. Other criticalities included low overburden to the existing flyovers and to the air traffic control tower as well as saving a 100 year‐old banyan tree.
Single neurons in the human medial temporal lobe flexibly shift representations across spatial and memory tasks
Authors: Donoghue Thomas , Cao Runnan , Han Claire Z. , Holman Cameron Monteith , Brandmeir Nicholas J. , Wang Shuo , Jacobs Joshua
Published: April 2023

Investigations into how individual neurons encode behavioral variables of interest have revealed specific representations in single neurons, such as place and object cells, as well as a wide range of cells with conjunctive encodings or mixed selectivity. However, as most experiments examine neural activity within individual tasks, it is currently unclear if and how neural representations change across different task contexts. Within this discussion, the medial temporal lobe is particularly salient, as it is known to be important for multiple behaviors including spatial navigation and memory, however the relationship between these functions is currently unclear. Here, to investigate how representations in single neurons vary across different task contexts in the medial temporal lobe, we collected and analyzed single‐neuron activity from human participants as they completed a paired‐task session consisting of a passive‐viewing visual working memory and a spatial navigation and memory task. Five patients contributed 22 paired‐task sessions, which were spike sorted together to allow for the same putative single neurons to be compared between the different tasks. Within each task, we replicated concept‐related activations in the working memory task, as well as target‐location and serial‐position responsive cells in the navigation task. When comparing neuronal activity between tasks, we first established that a significant number of neurons maintained the same kind of representation, responding to stimuli presentations across tasks. Further, we found cells that changed the nature of their representation across tasks, including a significant number of cells that were stimulus responsive in the working memory task that responded to serial position in the spatial task. Overall, our results support a flexible encoding of multiple, distinct aspects of different tasks by single neurons in the human medial temporal lobe, whereby some individual neurons change the nature of their feature coding between task contexts.
Nasal swab as an alternative specimen for the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
Authors: Nahar Kamrun , Begum Mst. Noorjahan , Tony Selim R. , Jubair Mohammad , Hossain Md. Abir , Karim Yeasir , Faisal Abdullah Al. , Hossain Mohammad Enayet , Rahman Mohammed Ziaur , Rahman Mustafizur
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has brought serious threats to public health worldwide. Nasopharyngeal, nasal swabs, and saliva specimens are used to detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). However, limited data are available on the performance of less invasive nasal swab for testing COVID‐19. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of nasal swabs with nasopharyngeal swabs using real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) considering viral load, onset of symptoms, and disease severity.

Methods

A total of 449 suspected COVIDCOVID‐19 individuals were recruited. Both nasopharyngeal and nasal swabs were collected from the same individual. Viral RNA was extracted and tested by real‐time RT‐PCR. Metadata were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS and MedCalc software.

Results

The overall sensitivity of the nasopharyngeal swab was 96.6%, and the nasal swab was 83.4%. The sensitivity of nasal swabs was more than 97.7% for low and moderate Ct values. Moreover, the performance of nasal swab was very high (>87%) for hospitalized patients and at the later stage >7 days of onset of symptoms.

Conclusion

Less invasive nasal swab sampling with adequate sensitivity can be used as an alternative to nasopharyngeal swabs for the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 by real‐time RT‐PCR.
Changes in UK pre‐schooler's mental health symptoms over the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic: Data from Co‐SPYCE study
Authors: Lawrence Peter J. , Skripkauskaite Simona , Shum Adrienne , Waite Polly , Dodd Helen
Published: April 2023

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic caused significant disruption to the lives of children and their families. Pre‐school children may have been particularly vulnerable to the effects of the pandemic, with the closure of childcare facilities, playgrounds, playcentres and parent and toddler groups limiting their opportunities for social interaction at a crucial stage of development. Additionally, for parents working from home, caring for pre‐school aged children who require high levels of support and care, was likely challenging. We conducted an intensive longitudinal, but not nationally representative, study to examine trajectories of pre‐schoolers’ mental symptoms in the United Kingdom during the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

UK‐based parents and carers (n = 1520) of pre‐school‐aged children (2–4 years) completed monthly online surveys about their pre‐schoolers’ mental health between April 2020 and March 2021. The survey examined changes in children's emotional symptoms, conduct problems and hyperactivity/inattention.

Results

In our final mixed‐effects models, our predictors (fixed effects) accounted for 5% of the variance in each of conduct problems, emotional symptoms and hyperactivity/inattention symptoms scores, and the combined random and fixed effects accounted for between 64% and 73% of the variance. Pre‐schoolers’ emotional problems and hyperactivity/inattention symptoms declined from April through summer 2020 and then increased again during the autumn and winter 2020/2021 as lockdowns were re‐introduced. Pre‐schoolers who attended childcare showed greater decline in symptom severity than those who did not. Older children, compared to younger, showed greater lability of emotion symptom severity. Attending childcare predicted lower symptom severity across all three domains of conduct problems, emotional symptoms, and hyperactivity/inattention, while the opposite pattern was observed for children whose parent had a mental health problem.

Conclusions

Our findings reinforce the importance of examining pre‐schoolers’ mental health in the context of micro and macro‐level factors. Interventions focussing on family factors such as parent mental health, as well as continued provision of childcare, may have most potential to mitigate the impact of COVID‐19 on young children's mental health.
Modulating role of the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation on the relationship between interannual variation of the long rains over Tanzania and south‐central tropical Indian Ocean sea surface temperature
Authors: Kebacho Laban Lameck , Chen Haishan
Published: April 2023

Several studies have demonstrated the influence of sea surface temperature (SST) in the Indian Ocean on the interannual variability of the Tanzanian long rains (TLR). A new investigation into the south‐central tropical Indian Ocean (SCTIO) SST–TLR relationship has been undertaken, focusing on the modulating role played by the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO). The relationship experienced interdecadal change during the early 1990s and was strong (weak) during the 1950–1990 (1991–2010) period. Further diagnosis revealed that the interdecadal change is closely associated with changes in atmospheric circulation anomalies induced by the SCTIO SST anomalies (SSTAs). Prior to the early 1990s, warm SCTIO SST induced anomalous upper‐level cyclone and easterlies over Tanzania, which led to evidence of abnormal subsidence over this region. These were accompanied by an early onset of the Southeast Asia monsoon (SAM) to promote dryness in Tanzania. Easterlies, cyclones and SAMs ceased to exist after the early 1990s. The SCTIO SSTA alone does not induce distinct atmospheric circulation anomalies linked to the TLR variation. It was found that IPO is a crucial factor modulating the nonstationary SCTIO SST–TLR relationship. Prior to the early 1990s, IPO‐related SSTA induced anomalous descending motion through the atmospheric bridge, resulting in northeasterly (easterly) over the north Indian (eastern Indian) Ocean. These anomalies also affect the mixed‐layer depth (latent heat flux), which in turn alters the SST, warming the whole Indian Ocean basin. In this case, the SCTIO SSTA exerts significant influence on the TLR, independent of the IPO. After the early 1990s, sea surface height anomalies from the Pacific propagate through the oceanic pathway to the SCTIO, which in turn modifies SSTs. During the 1991–2010 period, a weaker SCTIO SST–TLR association correlated with a stronger SCTIO SST–IPO relationship. We suggest that the IPO may act as a crucial modulator for the SCTIO SST–TLR relationship.
Historical assessment and future projection of extreme precipitation in CMIP6 models: Global and continental
Authors: Feng Taichen , Zhu Xian , Dong Wenjie
Published: April 2023

In this study, the new gridded daily precipitation dataset REGEN (Rainfall Estimates on a Gridded Network) was used to verify the performance of 23 global climate models participating in the 6th phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) in terms of extreme precipitation over global and continents during 1950–2014. Projected changes were also evaluated using CMIP6 multi‐model ensemble (MME) under different Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) by the end of the 21st century. Although positive biases exist in the climatology of most extreme precipitation indices simulated by the CMIP6 MME compared with observations, most of the CMIP6 models can reproduce the spatial distribution characteristics and temporal evolution trends of global extreme precipitation. The simulation is improved by using the CMIP6 MME, relative to the results from individual models. The projected results showed that in most regions of the world, extreme precipitation will significantly increase in the future, with more significant increase under higher SSPs. By the end of the 21st century, total precipitation of wet days (PRCPTOT), simple daily intensity (SDII), the number of very heavy rain days (R20mm), maximum 1‐day precipitation (Rx1day) and maximum consecutive 5‐day precipitation (Rx5day) over the global will increase by up to 50%, 20%, 70%, 50% and 50%, respectively, under the SSP5‐8.5 scenario. Nevertheless, marked uncertainties exist in the projection of extreme precipitation in South America and in the global for consecutive dry days (CDD) index. Noteworthy, average PRCPTOT, Rx1day and Rx5day over Asia, Europe and North America, as well as of the whole world, have significantly increased where the CDD index is also higher, shown by projected results. In summary, global extreme precipitation will increase in the future, and precipitation will become more uneven in space and time. Moreover, as the SSP scenario becomes higher, the uneven distribution of precipitation will become more pronounced.
How do caregivers of children living with HIV/AIDS cope, and where do they get support?: A qualitative study in Ghana
Authors: Atanuriba Gideon Awenabisa , Apiribu Felix , Laari Timothy Tienbia , Bonsu Adwoa Bemah Boamah , Dzomeku Veronica Millicent , Afaya Richard Adongo , Salifu Yakubu , Amooba Philemon Adoliwine
Published: April 2023

Background

Caring for children living with human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is challenging and has a tremendous impact on the physical and psychological health of caregivers. Caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS need to adopt coping mechanisms to navigate these complexities as it influences the quality of care provided. The literature on coping strategies and support (formal and informal) available to caregivers of children living with HIV/AIDS is scant. This study aimed to explore the coping strategies and support systems for caregivers of children living with HIV/AIDS.

Methods

A phenomenological study design was adopted. A total of nine participants across three hospitals in the Tamale metropolis were interviewed using purposive sampling. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Colaizzi's approach.

Results

Four main themes emerged from the analyses: (1) coping strategies, (2) types of support activities, (3) support from informal institutions and (4) support from formal institutions. The caregivers navigated the caring process with much spiritual coping. The caregivers had little or no support from informal institutions such as immediate family, faith and community leaders. Non‐governmental organizations were not visible in support, and there were no support groups for caregivers.

Conclusion

Support for caregivers and the active involvement of the immediate family in paediatric HIV care is imperative.
Transient squeezing flow of the lubricant impregnated in the porous material
Authors: Zhang Guotao , Ma Liangliang , Jiang Ting , Tong Baohong , Li Meng , Shi Liping
Published: April 2023

Porous materials are widely used in friction pairs. The transient squeezing flow of the lubricant significantly affects the lubrication quality. The study found that the lubricant penetrates into the porous matrix in the contact area and exudes upward to the entrance of the contact area. The maximum stress occurs at the subsurface of the contact zone, and the maximum pressure occurs at the contact centre. In the early loading stage, the lubricant exudates, resulting in a higher liquid‐phase load. With the prolongation of the time, the average stress decreases and then increases gradually, whilst the average pressure has the opposite change. In the late loading stage, the load is completely borne by the solid phase. Increasing the load will increases the seepage velocity of the lubricant, which enhance the pumping effect of the friction interface. The findings can help for better understanding of the self‐lubrication mechanism of the porous materials.
Analysis of the Binding of Cytokines to Highly Charged Polymer Networks
Authors: Freudenberg Uwe , Atallah Passant , Sommer Jens‐Uwe , Werner Carsten , Ballauff Matthias
Published: April 2023

A model describing the binding of biological signaling proteins to highly charged polymer networks is presented. The networks are formed by polyelectrolyte chains for which the distance between two charges at the chain is smaller than the Bjerrum length. Counterion condensation on such highly charged chains immobilizes a part of the counterions. The Donnan‐equilibrium between the polymer network and the aqueous solution with salt concentration is used to calculate the salt concentration of the co‐ and counterions entering the network. Two factors are decisive: i) The electrostatic interaction between the network and the protein is given by the Donnan‐potential of the network and the net charge of the protein. In addition to this leading term, a second term describes the change in the Born‐energy of the proteins when entering the network. ii) The interaction of the protein with the highly charged chains within the network is governed by counterion release: Patches of positive charge at the protein become multivalent counterions of the polyelectrolyte chains thus releasing a concomitant number of condensed counterions. The model compares favorably to experimental data obtained on a set of biohybrid polymer networks composed of crosslinked glycosaminoglycan chains that interact with a mixture of key signaling proteins.
Ionically Modified Gelatin Hydrogels Maintain Murine Myogenic Cell Viability and Fusion Capacity
Authors: Burattini Margherita , Lippens Robrecht , Baleine Nicolas , Gerard Melanie , Van Meerssche Joeri , Geeroms Chloë , Odent Jérémy , Raquez Jean‐Marie , Van Vlierberghe Sandra , Thorrez Lieven
Published: April 2023

For tissue engineering of skeletal muscles, there is a need for biomaterials which do not only allow cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation, but also support the physiological conditions of the tissue. Next to the chemical nature and structure of the biomaterial, its response to the application of biophysical stimuli, such as mechanical deformation or application of electrical pulses, can impact in vitro tissue culture. In this study, gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) is modified with hydrophilic 2‐acryloxyethyltrimethylammonium chloride (AETA) and 3‐sulfopropyl acrylate potassium (SPA) ionic comonomers to obtain a piezoionic hydrogel. Rheology, mass swelling, gel fraction, and mechanical characteristics are determined. The piezoionic properties of the SPA and AETA‐modified GelMA are confirmed by a significant increase in ionic conductivity and an electrical response as a function of mechanical stress. Murine myoblasts display a viability of >95% after 1 week on the piezoionic hydrogels, confirming their biocompatibility. The GelMA modifications do not influence the fusion capacity of the seeded myoblasts or myotube width after myotube formation. These results describe a novel functionalization providing new possibilities to exploit piezo‐effects in the tissue engineering field.
Powers of Catalan generating functions for bounded operators
Authors: Miana Pedro J. , Romero Natalia
Published: April 2023

Let
be the Catalan sequence and
a linear and bounded operator on a Banach space
such
is a power‐bounded operator. The Catalan generating function is defined by the following Taylor series:

Note that the operator
is a solution of the quadratic equation
. In this paper, we define powers of the Catalan generating function
in terms of the Catalan triangle numbers. We obtain new formulae that involve Catalan triangle numbers: the spectrum of
and the expression of
for
in terms of Catalan polynomials (
is the usual convolution product in sequences). In the last section, we give some particular examples to illustrate our results and some ideas to continue this research in the future.
Bivariate modified Bernstein–Kantorovich operators for the numerical solution of two‐dimensional fractional Volterra integral equations
Authors: Cival Buranay Suzan
Published: April 2023

A class of two‐dimensional fractional Volterra integral equations (2D‐FVIEs) of the second kind is considered. The solution may have unbounded derivatives near the integral domain boundary. Therefore, smoothing transformations are employed to change the original 2D‐FVIEs into new transformed 2D‐FVIEs with better regularity. The novelty in this research concerns both the theoretical investigation of the bivariate modified Bernstein–Kantorovich (B‐MBK) operators and the numerical application of these operators for approximating the unknown solution of 2D‐FVIEs. In this regard, an algorithm is given utilizing the B‐MBK operators and discretization that approximates the solution of the transformed discretized equation. Further, an inverse transformation is applied to obtain the solution of the original equation. Additionally, we illustrate the applicability of the proposed method on examples from the literature.
Measurement of neutron yield for a medical linear accelerator below 10 MV
Authors: Carlone Marco , Yang Ray , Hyde Derek , Becker Nathan , Cocarell John
Published: April 2023

Background

The recent trend toward 10 MV for volumetric radiotherapy treatment such as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) introduces photoneutron production, with implications for non‐therapeutic patient dose and additional shielding requirements for treatment room design. The sharply nonlinear drop‐off in photoneutron production below 10 MV to negligible at 6 MV has scarcely been characterized quantitatively, yet can elucidate important practical insights.

Purpose

To measure photoneutron yields in a medical linac at 8 MV, which may strike a reasonable balance between usefully increased beam penetration and dose rate as compared to 6 MV while reducing photoneutron production which is present at 10 MV.

Methods

A Varian iX linear accelerator undergoing decommissioning at our clinic was made to operate over a range of photon energies between 6 and 15 MV by calibrating the bending magnet and adjusting other beam generation parameters. Neutron dose within the treatment room was measured using an Anderson‐Braun type detector over a continuum of intermediate energies.

Results

The photoneutron production for energies below 10 MV was measured, adding to data that is otherwise scarce in the literature. Our results are consistent with previously published results for neutron yield. We found that the photoneutron production at 8 MV was about 1/10 of the value at 10 MV, and about 10 times higher than detector background at 6 MV.

Conclusions

Photoneutron production drops off below 10 MV, but is still present at 8 MV. An 8 MV beam is more penetrating than a 6 MV beam, and may offer a suitable tradeoff for modern radiotherapy techniques such as VMAT, SRS, and SABR. Further studies are needed to better understand the impact on treatment plan quality between 8 and 10 MV beams considering the benefits to facility requirements and non‐therapeutic patient dose.
Thiourea‐Derived Single‐Source Molecular Precursor For Spin‐Coated PbS Thin Films
Authors: Ketchemen Kevin I. Y. , Lapalikar Vaidehi , Carrillo‐Aravena Eduardo , Nyamen Linda D. , Ndifon Peter T. , Ruck Michael
Published: April 2023

In search of a suitable single‐source precursor for the deposition of nanostructured PbS thin films at moderate temperatures under ambient conditions, we have synthesized the ligand N‐(thiomorpholine‐4‐carbothioyl)benzamide and its corresponding lead(II) complex. The structures of both compounds were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. In the complex, two ligands coordinate to a lead(II) atom in hemi‐directed geometry through S and O atoms. Secondary intermolecular Pb⋅⋅⋅S interactions group the complexes into pairs. As bulk powders, both the ligand and complex show nominal composition and purity as evidenced by elemental analysis, 1H NMR and IR spectroscopy. Thermal analysis of the lead(II) complex was carried out to understand its thermal decomposition behaviour for establishing a thin film fabrication protocol. Thin films of phase‐pure PbS were fabricated using this new molecular precursor at the comparatively low annealing temperature of 250 °C. The film showed nanoparticles with cuboidal morphology and a blue‐shifted optical absorption.
Properties of basalt/aramid fiber reinforced hybrid composites compared to carbon fiber composites
Authors: Çelik Okan , Yaşar Abdulkadir , Karaçor Berkay
Published: April 2023

Due to environmental concerns and sustainability issues, researchers have focused on developing novel composite structures in different industries. In this study, aramid and basalt fiber reinforced polymer hybrid composites were designed and manufactured as an alternative material to carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. The hybrid composites were manufactured with different fiber ratios and stacking sequences to examine the effect on mechanical characteristics. Tensile, impact, hardness, morphological analysis, water absorption, and loss on ignition tests were performed to determine the properties of composites. The test results showed that tensile strength of the hybrid samples was dependent on the ratio and the sequence of fibers, while CFRPs had the highest tensile strength among all samples. Impact test results revealed that B24A24 basalt/aramid fiber hybrid composites had higher energy absorption capability compared to CFRPs at all different fiber ratios. Water absorption test results increment that increasing basalt fiber ratio increased the water absorption capacity of the hybrid composites. In case of aramid fiber in the upper layer, a decrease in ignition loss and increase in hardness values were observed. Through scanning electron microscopy analysis, a weak fiber‐matrix bonding was observed in the structure of hybrid samples in contrast to CFRPs.
A novel method based on eddy‐current equilibrium for improving the sensitivity of fiber orientation detection
Authors: Wang Teng , Wu Dehui
Published: April 2023

Fiber orientation deviation is a typical defect type in carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRPs) manufacturing process. Unlike other defect types, fiber orientation deviation has minimal influence on the local conductivity of CFRPs, so it is difficult to be detected by eddy current (EC) detection methods. Based on the principle of eddy‐current equilibrium, a new method is proposed in this paper to improve the sensitivity of fiber orientation detection. In this method, an EC field with eddy‐current equilibrium distribution inside the specimen is excited by means of a special double D‐shaped probe. When there is a deviation from the fiber orientation, the eddy‐current equilibrium state is broken, resulting in a rapid increase in the intensity and distribution range of the induced EC inside the specimen, and finally lead to a drastic change in the probe signal. The experimental results show that the double D‐shaped probe with an eddy‐current equilibrium effect can detect the fiber orientation of CFRPs, and the changes in fiber orientation can cause up to a 423.1% variation in the probe signal. Compared with the traditional rectangular probe, the designed probe is more sensitive than the former to small changes in fiber orientation in the range of −20° to 20° under high frequency excitation above 3 MHz. In addition, the proposed method can also be used for rapidly identifying fiber waviness with a deviation angle of 7.4° inside unidirectional CFRPs, which can be achieved effectively and intuitively through defect imaging.
Prenatal diagnosis and outcome of fetal urinomas in relation to the underlying etiology
Authors: Simonini Corinna , Strizek Brigitte , Strömer Annika , Gembruch Ulrich , Geipel Annegret
Published: April 2023

Objective

Evaluation of course and outcome of pregnancies with prenatally diagnosed fetal urinoma in a single center over a 20‐year period.

Methods

Retrospective study including all prenatally suspected or diagnosed fetal urinomas. Cases were analyzed by ultrasound findings during pregnancy, comparing urinomas caused by lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) and ureteropelvic or ureterovesical junction obstruction (UPJO/UVJO). Course of pregnancy and outcomes were compared according to the underlying etiology.

Results

87 cases of fetal urinomas were identified between 2002 and 2022. The underlying etiology was LUTO in 56.3% and UPJO/UVJO in 43.7%. Complications mainly included oligo‐ or anhydramnios, thoracic hypoplasia as well as associated renal abnormalities. Postnatally, loss of function (LOF) in kidneys affected by urinomas was seen in 78.6% of children overall, but significantly more often in cases of UPJO/UVJO than in LUTO (86.2% vs. 70.2%, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Association of prenatal urinoma and postnatal LOF of the affected kidney is high, especially in cases caused by UPJO/UVJO. In survivors with urinoma caused by UPJO/UVJO, the general prognosis is excellent if the contralateral kidney was normal. In survivors with urinomas caused by LUTO, long‐term prognosis depends on postnatal renal and pulmonary function.
The feedback I want versus the feedback I need: Investigating students' perceptions of feedback
Authors: Van Boekel Martin , Hufnagle Ashley S. , Weisen Shelby , Troy Alexandra
Published: April 2023

Getting feedback on assignments is a ubiquitous educational experience. Researchers have typically described the feedback process in one of two ways—feedback as transmission of information from a more knowledgeable other to the learner or feedback as a student‐centered dialogue. The present study highlights a gap between theory and practice by comparing undergraduate students' perceptions of the purpose and preferred content of feedback to the views of academics. To measure students' perceptions and preferences about feedback, we administered a survey to 80 undergraduate students from a large research university in the United States. We also analyzed the content of genuine feedback a subset of those students received as part of one of their authentic classroom assignments. Overall, results suggest a shared understanding of the purpose of feedback between students and academics. However, students do not necessarily want to receive feedback that reflects those purposes. Theoretical and practical implications of this misalignment between students' views on the purpose of feedback and their actual experiences with feedback are discussed.
Performances between the FY‐4A/GIIRS and FY‐4B/GIIRS Long‐Wave InfraRed (LWIR) channels under clear‐sky and all‐sky conditions
Authors: Niu Zeyi , Zhang Lei , Han Yang , Dong Peiming , Huang Wei
Published: April 2023

The observation‐minus‐background (O − B) bias characteristics are compared for the Long‐Wave InfraRed (LWIR) channels of the Geostationary Interferometric Infrared Sounder (GIIRS) on board Fengyun‐4A (FY‐4A) and Fengyun‐4B (FY‐4B) satellites under clear‐sky and all‐sky conditions. Under the clear‐sky condition, the data quality of the FY‐4B/GIIRS is better than that of the FY‐4A/GIIRS. Specifically, the standard deviations (<1 K) of the O − B values for FY‐4B/GIIRS LWIR channels are smaller than those (>1 K) of the FY‐4A/GIIRS, especially in carbon dioxide (CO2) and ozone (O3) absorption bands. The diurnal variations of the mean O − B biases for the O3 band of the FY‐4B/GIIRS are less than those of FY‐4A/GIIRS. To our surprise, the diurnal variations of O − B biases for the FY‐4B/GIIRS and FY‐4A/GIIRS channels show an obvious antiphase characteristic in the CO2 band, which could be caused by diurnal environmental field variations from the different geostationary (GEO) platforms. In addition, the FY‐4B/GIIRS channel 7 (703.75 cm−1) has smaller pixel‐dependent biases than those of FY‐4A/GIIRS. Under the all‐sky condition, the observation and cloudy simulation () for channels 7 (703.75 cm−1), 36 (721.875 cm−1), and 320 (900 cm−1) of the FY‐4B/GIIRS are more consistent than those of FY‐4A/GIIRS with smaller root‐mean‐square errors (RMSEs), which also indicates a better observation quality in the cloudy area.
Structure‐Based Drug Design: Identification of Glucokinase Activators from Natural Compounds for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Malini Manokaran , Thilagavathi Ramasamy , Kumar Singh Sanjeev , Pravin Arun , Selvam Chelliah
Published: April 2023

Glucokinase Activators (GKA) are novel small molecules that target GK and reduce plasma blood glucose by binding GK allosterically. It is considered as a potential therapeutic target to treat T2D. So, in an effort to identify compounds to treat T2D efficiently, a structure‐based virtual screening was performed on compounds from Universal Natural Product Database (UNPD) using FRED. Among 229358 compounds from UNPD, four compounds were identified as potential small molecules. The hit compounds UNPD 1354, UNPD 85595, UNPD 6604, and UNPD 88147 are found to interact strongly with active site residues ARG 63, VAL62, VAL452, TYR215, VAL 455, MET210, MET235, and TYR214. In addition, ADME predictions show that the compounds satisfy drug‐likeness criteria. Finally, the molecular dynamics simulation was carried out for 50 ns using the GROMACS 2020 package, the results confirm the stability of the enzyme‐HIT throughout the simulation time. Thus, this study may provide valuable insights into identifying novel small molecules as GKAs.