bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetic and mechanistic aspects of furfural degradation in biorefineries
Authors: Almhofer Lukas , Bischof Robert H. , Madera Martin , Paulik Christian
Published: August 2022

Furfural is one of the most promising platform chemicals for a future biobased industry and can already be produced from renewable raw materials. However, its production processes suffer from yield loss and fouling problems due to degradation reactions. To increase our understanding of furfural stability, we investigated the kinetics of its degradation (i) without acid catalyst and (ii) in 10 different acids that are frequently used in biomass processing or that are naturally present in biomass hydrolysates. The batch experiments were conducted in a parallel minireactor setup at temperatures ranging from 125 to 200°C. The results showed that acid‐catalyzed furfural degradation reactions depend mainly on acid strength and give rise to a set of common degradation products (formic acid, glycolic acid, pyruvate, etc.). Sulphurous acid and lignosulphonic acid led to greater furfural degradation than expected, which appears to be driven by specific side reactions. Adding formic acid, in contrast, led to a lower degradation rate than expected. In general, we observed two distinct, competing degradation mechanisms. Selectivity for formic acid as a degradation product depends on temperature, furfural concentration, and the presence of an acid catalyst. A more detailed study of the formic acid yielding reaction showed it to be reversible, and we provide the first quantitative description of this reaction for any furan. The proposed kinetic model, together with the results presented, contributes to the development of more efficient furfural production processes.
Adiponectin serum level is an independent and incremental predictor of all‐cause mortality after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Walpot Jeroen , van Herck Paul , Collas Valerie , Bossaerts Liene , Van de Heyning Caroline M. , Vandendriessche Tom , Heidbuchel Hein , Rodrigus Inez , De Block Christophe , Small Gary R. , Bosmans Johan
Published: August 2022

Background

Quantifiable biomarkers may be useful for a better risk and frailty assessment of patients referred for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Hypothesis

To determine if adiponectin serum concentration predicts all‐cause mortality in patients undergoing TAVI.

Methods

77 consecutive patients, undergoing TAVI, were analyzed. The CT axial slices at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra were used to measure the psoas muscle area, and its low‐density muscle fraction (LDM (%)). To assess the operative risk, the STS (Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality) score, Log. Euroscore, and Euroscore II were determined. A clinical frailty assessment was performed. ELISA kits were used to measure adiponectin serum levels. We searched for a correlation between serum adiponectin concentration and all‐cause mortality after TAVI.

Results

The mean age was 80.8 ± 7.4 years. All‐cause mortality occurred in 22 patients. The mean follow‐up was 1779 days (range: 1572–1825 days). Compared with patients with the lowest adiponectin level, patients in the third tertile had a hazards ratio of all‐cause mortality after TAVI of 4.155 (95% CI: 1.364–12.655) (p = .004). In the multivariable model, including STS score, vascular access of TAVI procedure, LDM (%), and adiponectin serum concentration, serum adiponectin level, and LDM(%) were independent predictors of all‐cause mortality after TAVI (p = .178, .303, .042, and .017, respectively). Adiponectin level was a predictor of all‐cause mortality in females and males (p = .012 and 0.024, respectively).

Conclusion

Adiponectin serum level is an independent and incremental predictor of all‐cause mortality in patients undergoing TAVI.
Value of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) in patients with newly diagnosed, CD5‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: A multicenter retrospective study of the Huaihai Lymphoma Working Group
Authors: Ma Sha , Zhang Bingpei , Lu Tianyi , Li Dashan , Li Tianci , Shen Ziyuan , He Chenlu , Wang Ying , Li Bingzong , Zhang Hao , Gu Weiying , Wang Chunling , Ye Jingjing , Zhu Taigang , Miao Yuqing , Wang Ling , Huang Shuiping , Liu Qinhua , Sang Wei ,   the Huaihai Lymphoma Working Group
Published: August 2022

Background

CD5‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a clinically rare subtype of DLBCL with aggressive clinical manifestations and a poor prognosis. It has been demonstrated that the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), an indicator of nutritional status and systemic inflammation, is a significant prognostic factor for several types of lymphoma. The objective of this multicenter retrospective study was to explore the prognostic value of the PNI in patients with CD5‐positive DLBCL.

Methods

In total, 207 patients with CD5‐positive DLBCL were recruited from 11 centers of the Huaihai Lymphoma Working Group. Maximally selected rank statistics analysis was used to identify optimal cutoff points for the PNI. A Cox proportional hazards model was used for univariable and multivariable analyses. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to calculate survival rates and draw survival curves, and the log‐rank test was used to compare differences between groups.

Results

The median age at diagnosis was 61 years, and the 5‐year overall survival rate was 47.5%. According to the maximally selected rank statistics analysis, a score of 49.7 was the optimal cutoff point for the PNI. Subgroup analysis showed that the PNI could re‐stratify patients in BCL‐2–negative, MYC‐negative, high‐intermediate–risk and high‐risk International Prognostic Index, BCL‐6–positive and BCL‐6–negative, high Ki‐67 score (≥0.9), Ann Arbor stage III/IV, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥2, and germinal center B subgroups. Multivariable analysis revealed that PNI, age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, albumin level, and red blood cell count were independent prognostic factors for CD5‐positive DLBCL.

Conclusions

The PNI was a significant prognostic indicator for CD5‐positive DLBCL and was able to re‐stratify the prognosis for clinicopathologic subgroups of patients with CD5‐positive DLBCL.
Ru anchored on Mo@MoOx nanowires as self‐supported electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen production in alkaline media
Authors: Wang Lanlan , Liu Zhengpeng , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2022

Ru‐based materials are expected to be a promising alternative to commercial Pt/C for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), but they still suffer from large overpotential and low mass activity in alkaline medium. Here, we reported Ru (∼0.24 wt%) anchored on the Mo@MoOx nanowires (Ru−Mo@MoOx) as an efficient alkaline HER electrocatalyst. The Ru−Mo@MoOx nanowires exhibit a considerably low overpotential of only 16 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of ∼30 mV dec−1 in a 1 M KOH aqueous solution, which outperform those for commercial Pt/C and most reported Ru‐based electrocatalysts. Electrochemical and structural investigations reveal that Mo@MoOx support can modulate electronic structure of Ru active sites, leading to the optimizations of adsorption and dissociation for H2O. Meanwhile the improved electron and mass transfer also contribute to the HER performance. The water electrolyzer using Ru−Mo@MoOx as the cathode afford a stable voltage of ∼1.47 V to deliver 10 mA cm−2.
Prognostic factors for cancer‐specific survival in 220 patients with breast cancer: A single center experience
Authors: Tarlan Mitra , Khazaei Sedigheh , Madani Seyed Hamid , Saleh Elaheh
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Hospital‐based breast cancer survival studies are scarce in western Iran. Furthermore, the relationship between breast cancer survival and clinical parameters has been extensively studied, but many of the findings come from developing countries. This paper aims to estimate the survival of hospital‐based breast cancer patients and its predictor factors.

Method

This retrospective analysis was conducted on 578 patients with primary breast cancer who underwent surgery between 2004 and 2020. Information was collected from medical reports by the Hospital information system in Imam Reza Hospital, Kermanshah, Iran. One‐, 2‐, 5‐, and 10‐year breast cancer‐specific survival has been calculated using the Kaplan–Meier process. Crude and adjusted Hazard Ratios (HR) were calculated using the Cox proportional regression model.

Result

One‐, 2‐, and 5‐year overall breast cancer survival were 219 (99.54%), 196 (89.09%), 159 (72.27%), and 70 (31.81%), respectively. Univariate analysis of breast cancer patients with tumor‐related variables revealed that factors such as age, menopause status, lymph node metastasis, number of lymph nodes, organ metastasis, and stage of disease were significantly associated with disease‐specific survival (p < .05). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that metastasis (HR = 41.77, 95% CI: 15.3–114.15) and lymph node metastasis (HR = 5.26, 95% CI: 1.9–14.6) were significantly related to survival.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate that survival is relatively low and is consistent with late‐stage disease diagnosis. It is believed that this is due to a poor level of awareness, lack of screening programs, and subsequent late access to treatment.
A pilot clinical and radiographic study on the association between periodontitis and serious COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Gardelis Panagiotis , Zekeridou Alkisti , Suh Noemie , Le Terrier Christophe , Stavropoulos Andreas , Giannopoulou Catherine
Published: August 2022

Background

During the pandemic of COVID‐19, the scientific community tried to identify the risk factors that aggravate the viral infection. Oral health and specifically periodontitis have been shown to have a significant impact on overall health. Current, yet limited, evidence suggests a link between periodontal status and severity of COVID‐19 infection.

Objectives

The present pilot study aimed to assess whether younger patients (≤60 years) that have been hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) for severe COVID‐19 infection were susceptible to severe periodontitis.

Material and Methods

All dentate patients ≤60 years of age diagnosed with COVID‐19 and surviving hospitalization in the ICU were considered for inclusion. Susceptibility to periodontitis was determined by assessing radiographic bone loss (RBL) in recent dental radiographs (posterior bitewings, periapical, and panoramic X‐rays). RBL in % was obtained from the most affected tooth and patients were classified into: Stage I, RBL ≤ 15%; Stage II, RBL = 15%−33% and Stage III/IV, RBL ≥ 33%. The grade was defined using the RBL to age ratio on the most severely affected tooth. Patients were attributed to: Grade A, ratio <0.25; Grade B, ratio 0.25−1 and Grade C, ratio >1. Patients classified into Stage III/IV and Grade C were considered highly susceptible to periodontitis.

Results

Of 87 eligible patients, 30 patients were finally assessed radiographically and/or clinically; from the remaining 57 patients, 16 refused participation for various reasons and 41 could not be reached. Based on the radiographic assessment, all patients were periodontally compromised. Half of them were classified with Stage III/IV and Grade B or C; 26.7% were classified with Stage III/IV and Grade C.

Conclusions

The present pilot study showed that about half of the patients suffering from severe forms of COVID‐19 infection in need of ICU admission suffered also from severe periodontitis, and about one‐fourth of them were highly susceptible to it.
FNAC study of giant cell tumor of tendon sheath (localized tenosynovial giant cell tumor): Clinico‐radiological correlation and cytopathological features
Authors: Aden Durre , Khalid Saifullah , Zaheer Sufian , Dinkar Amit Kumar , Singh Mukul , Ranga Sunil
Published: August 2022

Background

Localized tenosynovial giant cell tumor (GCT) or giant cell tumor of tendon sheath (GCTTS), is a benign nodular lesion that arises from the synovium of the tendon sheath of the hands and foot. GCTTS is characterized by the presence of multinucleated giant cells and proliferation of synovial‐like mononuclear cells. A clinical diagnosis of GCTTS is kept as a differential when a firm, nodular mass shows decreased signal intensity on both T1‐and T2‐weighted MR imaging. Treatment is usually marginal excision of the mass.

Material and Methods

It is a retrospective study, observed in the past 3 years at a tertiary care hospital. Those cases were included in the study in which histopathological confirmation was available or if clinico‐radiological features were confirmatory of the diagnosis of GCTTS when correlated with cytological features.

Results

There was a total of 24 cases, out of which 16 were females and 8 males. The tumor was located in the upper limb in 21 cases and in 3 cases the tumor was present in the lower limb. In the upper limb, 18 cases were on the right side and three cases were on the left side. In the lower limb, 1 case was present on the left and 2 on the right side. The cytomorphology consisted of mononuclear stromal cells, multinucleated giant cells, and hemosiderin‐laden macrophages in variable numbers.

Conclusion

It is important to accurately diagnose and categorize giant cell‐containing lesions because their prognosis depends on the exact categorization of the tumor.
Corticogenesis across species at single‐cell resolution
Authors: Park Seon Hye E. , Ortiz Ana K. , Konopka Genevieve
Published: August 2022

The neocortex (or pallium) consists of diverse cell types that are organized in a highly species‐specific manner under strict spatiotemporal control during development. Many of the cell types are present transiently throughout development but contribute to permanent species‐specific cortical features that are acquired through evolution. Therefore, capturing cell type‐specific biological information has always been an important quest in the field of neurodevelopment. The progress in achieving fine cellular resolution has been slow due to technical challenges. However, with recent advancements in single‐cell and multi‐omics technologies, many laboratories have begun to successfully interrogate cellular and molecular mechanisms driving corticogenesis at single‐cell resolution. In this review, we provide summarized results from many primary publications and several in‐depth review articles that utilize or address single‐cell genomics techniques to understand important topics, such as cellular and molecular mechanisms governing cortical progenitor proliferation, cell lineage progression, neuronal specification, and arealization, across multiple gyrencephalic (i.e., human and non‐human primates) and lissencephalic species (i.e., mouse, reptiles, and songbirds). We also examine findings from recent studies involving epigenomic and posttranscriptional regulation of corticogenesis. In the discussion section, we provide our insights on the challenges the field currently faces as well as promising future applications of single cell technologies.
Development of fiber‐optic pressure sensor utilizing magneto‐optical effect
Authors: Miyamoto Mitsunori , Aiba Tetsuya , Sue Satoshi , Kubo Toshiya
Published: August 2022

Due to the optical fiber have a small diameter and it can propagate light efficiently, it is possible to realize ultra‐compact remote sensors. We have invented to the fiber‐optic pressure sensor utilizes magneto‐optical effect with polarized light, ring‐type interferometer and a magnetic material, in order to propose the pressure measurement system which can measure in vivo or in harsh environments. We have confirmed that the prototype sensor based on magneto‐optical effect was possible to detect pressures in range of −4 to +40 kPa.
Pen‐type pulse wave measurement system for detecting pathological changes in cardiac diseases
Authors: Yamada Kosei , Watatani Kazuki , Terao Kyohei , Shimokawa Fusao , Takao Hidekuni
Published: August 2022

In this study, we have developed a new pen‐type pulse wave measurement system to evaluate heart failure treatment based on cardiovascular information. In order to acquire minute pathological changes in diseases such as heart failure, the pen‐type pulse wave measurement system is equipped with a high‐resolution MEMS tactile sensor that achieves a displacement resolution of 0.4 μm and an input resolution of 50μN. This measurement system consists of a small sensor package, a pen‐type measurement system, and a glass sensor package to enable physicians to measure the radial artery of men and women of all ages in a minimally invasive, rapid, and precise manner. Realizing this measurement system, simple and precise pulse wave measurement by direct measurement and measurement of pulse wave characteristics for individual differences has been possible.
Access to Ketones through Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Phenol Derivatives with Nitroalkanes Followed by Nef Reaction
Authors: He Xiaoyu , Hu Sengui , Xiao Yuxuan , Yu Lin , Duan Wengui
Published: August 2022

A practical protocol for the synthesis of ketones by Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of phenol derivatives with nitroalkanes followed by a Nef‐type reaction has been developed. The readily available nitroalkanes served as alkyl nucleophiles under basic conditions to couple with easy‐to‐handle phenol derivatives derived from naturally abundant phenols. The avoidance of using organometallics and organic halides makes this protocol more sustainable. The reaction was compatible with various functional groups, including nitro, cyano, acetyl, aldehyde, halide, and ester groups. Furthermore, the successful application of our method in drug synthesis exemplified its synthetic potential in pharmaceutical sciences. Preliminary mechanistic investigations strongly suggested the possible involvement of α‐aryl‐substituted nitroalkane intermediates.
Sequential Base‐Promoted Formal [4+2] Allenoate Based Cycloaddition: Synthesis of Functionalized Acridines
Authors: Shirazian Toktam S. , Tejeneki Hossein Zahedian , Nikbakht Ali , Rominger Frank , Balalaie Saeed
Published: August 2022

Base‐promoted formal [4+2] cycloaddition reaction of (Z)‐2‐(2‐hydroxy‐2‐alkylvinyl)quinoline‐3‐carbaldehydes and allenoates represents an efficient method for the synthesis of functionalized acridines through a sequential Michael addition, aldol condensation, and isomerization process in a mild condition. This new approach tolerates a wide range of (Z)‐2‐(2‐hydroxy‐2‐alkylvinyl)quinoline‐3‐carbaldehydes and allenoates and affords the functionalized acridines in good to excellent yields. The exclusive selectivity, high atom economy, and high bond‐formation efficiency of this method makes it a valuable approach for the synthesis of acridine backbones.
Selective Electrochemical Detection of Explosives with Nanomaterial Based Electrodes
Authors: Apak Reşat , Üzer Ayşem , Sağlam Şener , Arman Aysu
Published: August 2022

Explosive detection technologies play a critical role in maintaining national security, remain an active research field with many devices and analytical/electroanalytical techniques. Analytical chemistry needs for homeland defense against terrorism make it clear that real‐time and on‐site detection of explosives and chemical warfare agents (CWAs) are in urgent demand. Thus, current detection techniques for explosives have to be improved in terms of sensitivity and selectivity, opening the way to electrochemical devices suitable to obtain the targeted analytical information in a simpler, cheaper and faster way. For the electrochemical determination of energetic substances, a large number of sensor electrodes have been presented in literature using different modification materials, especially displaying higher selectivity with molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). MIPs have already been utilized for the detection of hazardous materials due to their mechanical strength, flexibility, long‐time storage and low cost. The sensitivity of MIP‐based electrosensors can be enhanced by coupling with nanomaterials such as graphene oxide (GOx), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), or nanoparticles (NPs). Specific characteristics of involved nanomaterials, their modification, detection mechanism, and other analytical aspects are discussed in detail. Non‐MIP electrosensors are generally functionalized with materials capable of charge transfer, H‐bonding or electrostatic interactions with analytes for pre‐concentration and electrocatalysis on their surface, whereas nanobio‐electrosensors use analyte‐selective aptamers having specific sequences of DNA, peptides or proteins to change the potential or current. This review intends to provide a combination of information related to MIPs and nanomaterial‐based electrochemical sensors, limited to the most significant and illustrative work recently published.
Spray Pyrolysis Deposition of CuCrO2 Films as Promising Inorganic Hole Transport Layers for Highly Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Sen , Wang Linqin , Liu Chang , Shan Yu , Li Fusheng , Sun Licheng
Published: August 2022

Recently, CuCrO2 films have been successfully introduced as effective hole‐transporting materials in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the long reaction time (≈50–60 h) at the high temperature of hydrothermal synthesis and the complexity of conversion from nanoparticles to uniform films hinder the application of CuCrO2 nanoparticles in PSCs. Herein, a simple, low‐cost, and highly reproducible method for the spray pyrolysis deposition (SPD) of Cu‐deficient CuCrO2 films is reported. The resulting CuCrO2 films exhibit advantages in terms of transparency, roughness, and electrical properties compared to their extensively studied NiO
x
counterparts. Meanwhile, the deep‐lying valence‐band‐maximum of CuCrO2 films matches very well with that of perovskite materials, minimizing the charge‐extraction barrier. As a result, the excellent electrical properties and energetically favorable energy‐level alignment of the CuCrO2 film allow efficient charge transport from the perovskite layer to the hole transport layer (HTL). Consequently, the optimized CuCrO2‐based device delivers an outstanding power conversion efficiency of 18.86% versus 16.80% for NiO
x
‐based devices. This work demonstrates the validity of a CuCrO2 film derived from the SPD method as an HTL for highly efficient PSCs.
Photothermal Conversion Characteristics of ZnO/MWCNTs Binary Nanofluids and ZnO/MWCNTs/Au Ternary Hybrid Nanofluids in Direct Absorption Solar Collectors
Authors: Dong Lan , Ding Suying , Wu Zihua , Xie Huaqing , Wang Jiawei , Wang Tingting , Wang Yuanyuan , Huang Yueming
Published: August 2022

Herein, the oil‐based ZnO/multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) binary nanofluids and ZnO/MWCNTs/Au ternary hybrid nanofluids are proposed. The effects of nanoparticles concentration, and the ratio of ZnO and MWCNTs on the optical properties and photothermal conversion performance are experimentally analyzed. Compared to the base fluid (heat transfer oil), the transmittance of the nanofluids decreases with increasing nanoparticle concentration. The ZnO/MWCNTs nanofluids show slightly higher optical absorption performance than MWCNTs due to the multiple scattering caused by the ZnO hierarchical structure. The ZnO/MWCNTs nanocomposites decorate with gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) to form ZnO/MWCNTs/Au ternary hybrid nanofluids. The ZnO/MWCNTs/Au nanofluids have slightly higher absorption performance in the visible region due to the plasmonic effect exhibited of the Au NPs. The photothermal results show that the maximum value of photothermal conversion efficiency (91.2%) of ZnO/MWCNTs nanofluids is achieved when maintaining the solid content of MWCNTs at 0.01 wt% and the ZnO and MWCNTs ratio of 2:3. The photothermal conversion efficiencies of MWCNTs and ZnO/MWCNTs/Au nanofluids are enhanced by about 35.6% and 42.8%, respectively. This work demonstrates that ZnO/MWCNTs and ZnO/MWCNTs/Au nanofluids have potential application as working fluids for direct absorption solar collectors.
Probabilistic constrained Bayesian inversion for transpiration cooling
Authors: Steins Ella , Bui‐Thanh Tan , Herty Michael , Müller Siegfried
Published: August 2022

To enable safe operations in applications such as rocket combustion chambers, the materials require cooling to avoid material damage. Here, transpiration cooling is a promising cooling technique. Numerous studies investigate possibilities to simulate and evaluate the complex cooling mechanism. One naturally arising question is the amount of coolant required to ensure a safe operation. To study this, we introduce an approach that determines the posterior probability distribution of the Reynolds number using an inverse problem and constraining the maximum temperature of the system under parameter uncertainties. Mathematically, this chance inequality constraint is dealt with by a generalized polynomial chaos expansion of the system. The posterior distribution will be evaluated by different Markov chain Monte Carlo based methods. A novel method for the constrained case is proposed and tested among others on two‐dimensional transpiration cooling models.
A novel fusion variant LSM14A::NR4A3 in extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma
Authors: Ngo Carine , Verret Benjamin , Vibert Julien , Cotteret Sophie , Levy Antonin , Pechoux Cécile Le , Haddag‐Miliani Leila , Honore Charles , Faron Matthieu , Quinquis Fabien , Cesne Axel Le , Scoazec Jean‐Yves , Pierron Gaëlle
Published: August 2022

Extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma (EMC) is a rare soft tissue neoplasm of uncertain lineage characterized by the pathognomonic rearrangement of the NR4A3 gene, which in most cases is fused with EWSR1. Other NR4A3 fusion partners have been described, namely TAF15, FUS, TCF12, and TGF. Some studies suggest that EMCs with non‐EWSR1 variant fusion are associated with high‐grade morphology and worst clinical behavior compared to EWSR1::NR4A3 tumors, supporting the potential significance of particular fusion variant in EMC. We report a case of a 34‐year‐old male who presented with calf EMC and subsequently developed a slowly progressive metastatic disease 3 years after diagnosis. Whole‐transcriptome analysis with total RNA sequencing enabled identification of a novel fusion transcript LSM14A::NR4A3, expanding the molecular spectrum of EMC.
Leviathan as a financial godfather: Debt advantages of wholly state‐owned enterprises
Authors: Jara Mauricio , Musacchio Aldo , Wagner Rodrigo
Published: August 2022

Research Summary

We examine the debt advantages of wholly owned state‐owned enterprises (WSOEs), due to an implicit sovereign insurance against default. Our model explains conditions that increase those advantages in bond yields. In our global sample of bonds, we find that bond issues of WSOEs, have a 57 bps discount in their yield to maturity vis‐à‐vis comparable corporations. The effect is even larger when we benchmark against partial state‐owned firms—an effect large enough to overcome the liability of foreignness. This cheaper debt finance is stronger during crises yet disappears for sovereigns with low creditworthiness. This lower cost of debt “inflates” the profits of the median WSOE by 13%.

Managerial Summary

We examine if wholly owned state‐owned enterprises (WSOEs) enjoy a lower cost of capital vis‐à‐vis their private counterparts when issuing bonds due to the perception that their debt is implicitly insured against default. We develop a model and undertake empirical tests to show that bond issues of WSOEs enjoy a 57 bps discount relative to private issues. This discount is large even relative to the premia companies pay when issuing bonds abroad. We also find that during crises the discount is larger as investors value the implicit insurance even more, but that it disappears for bond issues of governments with low creditworthiness. We estimate that for the median WSOE in our sample, the lower cost of capital inflates profits by 13%.
Lack of efficacy of convalescent plasma in COVID‐19 patients with concomitant hematological malignancies: An Italian retrospective study
Authors: Lanza Francesco , Monaco Federica , Ciceri Fabio , Cairoli Roberto , Sacchi Maria Vittoria , Guidetti Anna , Marchetti Monia , Massaia Massimo , Arcaini Luca , Krampera Mauro , Mohamed Sara , Gherlinzoni Filippo , Mecucci Cristina , Gentile Massimo , Romano Ilaria , Venditti Adriano , Ruggeri Marco , Ferrero Dario , Coviello Elisa , Fabbri Elisabetta , Corradini Paolo , Passamonti Francesco
Published: August 2022

A multicenter retrospective study was designed to assess clinical outcome of COVID‐19 in patients with hematological malignancies (HM) following treatment with anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 convalescent plasma (CP) or standard of care therapy. To this aim, a propensity score matching was used to assess the role of non‐randomized administration of CP in this high‐risk cohort of patients from the Italian Hematology Alliance on COVID‐19 (ITA‐HEMA‐COV) project, now including 2049 untreated control patients. We investigated 30‐ and 90‐day mortality, rate of admission to intensive care unit, proportion of patients requiring mechanical ventilatory support, hospitalization time, and SARS‐CoV‐2 clearance in 79 CP recipients and compared results with 158 propensity score‐matched controls. Results indicated a lack of efficacy of CP in the study group compared with the untreated group, thus confirming the negative results obtained from randomized studies in immunocompetent individuals with COVID‐19. In conclusion, this retrospective analysis did not meet the primary and secondary end points in any category of immunocompromized patients affected by HM.
Distribution of lymphoma subtypes in Ukraine according to the WHO 2016 classification
Authors: Kriachok Iryna , Stepanishyna Yana , Skrypets Tetiana , Shokun Nazar , Martynchyk Arina , Tytorenko Iryna , Aleksik Olena , Krotevych Mykhailo , Manni Martina , Federico Massimo
Published: August 2022

The Ukrainian Lymphoma Registry (ULR) was established in 2019 with the aim of monitoring the quality of diagnosis, staging, and treatment of lymphoma in Ukraine. Between September 2019 and October 2021, 546 patients with newly diagnosed lymphoma were prospectively registered. All cases were diagnosed according to the 2016 updated WHO lymphoma classification. The male‐to‐female ratio (M/F) for the whole population was 0.7, with a median age of 46 years (range 18–95). The adoption of the 2016 WHO classification resulted in the identification of 36 different lymphoma subtypes, with 132 cases (24.2%) classified differently compared to the 2008 WHO classification. Only 12 cases (2.8%) were true new entities, including seven cases of high‐grade B‐cell lymphoma NOS, three of anaplastic large B‐cell lymphoma, ALK‐negative, 1 case of HHV8+ DLBCL NOS, and 1 of high‐grade B‐cell lymphoma with C‐MYC and BCL2/BCL6 rearrangement. Moreover, 55 (61.1%) entities, including 37 defined by WHO 2008 and 18 defined by WHO 2016, were not represented at all. The analysis of cases registered in the ULR provides a comprehensive breakdown of the subtypes, stage distribution, and treatment of malignant lymphomas (ML) in Ukraine, supporting the usefulness of prospective data collection and timely reporting. We believe that this study is the first step toward a better understanding of the real‐life outcomes of patients with ML.
“When People Don't Know Me, They Think…”: Fostering a Multimodal Translanguaging Space that Leverages Students' Voices
Authors: Espinet Ivana , Chapman‐Santiago Charene
Published: August 2022

This article describes the design and implementation of a project from a translanguaging pedagogical stance. The research presented seeks to understand how translanguaging as a multimodal practice shapes the experiences of students in a traditional English Language Arts 8th‐grade classroom and how students leveraged their multimodal semiotic repertoires to explore identity expression. The article provides a framework for understanding translanguaging as a multimodal practice and discusses how it is embedded strategically in the design of instruction in a class in which many of the students are emergent bilinguals. It analyzes the process of producing short videos in which students critically examine how they were perceived by others and who they really are and presenting data that examine how students defy deficit perspectives and use their multimodal communicative repertoires to curate self‐representation.
Do biological activities of selective histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) inhibitors rely on the modification of cap group?
Authors: Liu Xingang , Wang Songsong , Shi Xiaoxing , Lu Ming , Wang Chengzhao , Li Xuedong , Zhang Yang , Jia Qingzhong , Liu Haisheng
Published: August 2022

Nowadays, significant progress has been made in the development of selective histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) inhibitors, exerting great potential in the treatment of various malignant tumors and neurodegenerative diseases. Previously, selective inhibitory activities of HDAC inhibitors were generally considered sensitive to the interactions between the Cap group and the binding site of HDAC6, and a large number of selective HDAC6 inhibitors have been designed and synthesized based on the strategy. However, some inhibitors without Cap group could also exhibit excellent potency and selective inhibition towards HDAC6, and in this study, BRD9757 and compound 8, as capless selective HDAC6 inhibitors, were selected as molecular probes to explore the difference of their binding interactions in HDAC1&6. Through the analysis of binding‐free energies and conformational rearrangements after 1 μs molecular dynamics simulation, it could be learned that although the residues in the binding site remained highly consistent, the binding mechanisms of BRD9757 and compound 8 in HDAC1&6 were different, which will provide valuable hints for the discovery of novel selective HDAC6 inhibitors.
Serosurvey in SARS‐CoV‐2 inactivated vaccine‐elicited neutralizing antibodies against authentic SARS‐CoV‐2 and its viral variants
Authors: Zou Lirong , Zhang Huan , Zheng Zhonghua , Jiang Yushan , Huang Yushi , Lin Shujian , Yu Jianxiang , Deng Xiaoling , He Jianfeng , Shen Chenguang , Li Baisheng
Published: August 2022

Various variants of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) have been emerging and circulating in different parts of the world. Millions of vaccine doses have been administered globally, which reduces the morbidity and mortality of coronavirus disease‐2019 efficiently. Here, we assess the immune responses of individuals after two shots of BBIBP‐CorV or CoronaVac inactivated vaccine. We measured neutralizing antibody responses after the second vaccination by using authentic SARS‐CoV‐2 and its viral variants. All the serum samples efficiently neutralized SARS‐CoV‐2 wild‐type lineage, in contrast, a part of serum samples failed to neutralize Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, or Eta lineages, and only several serum samples were able to neutralize Omicron lineage virus strains (BA.1 and BA.2) with low neutralization titer. As compared with the neutralization of SARS‐CoV‐2 wild‐type lineage, the neutralization of all other SARS‐CoV‐2 variant lineages was significantly lower. Considering that all the SARS‐CoV‐2 mutation viruses challenged the antibody neutralization induced by BBIBP‐CorV and CoronaVac, it is necessary to carry out a third booster vaccination to increase the humoral immune response against the SARS‐CoV‐2 mutation viruses.
Incidence and impact of malnutrition in patients with Fontan physiology
Authors: Sekhon Ravneet , Foshaug Rae R. , Kantor Paul F. , Mansukhani Gitanjali , Mackie Andrew S. , Hollander Seth A. , Lewis Kylie , Conway Jennifer
Published: August 2022

Background

Single‐ventricle patients require a series of surgeries, with the final stage being the Fontan. This form of circulation results in several long‐term complications, but the impact and consequences of nutrition status remain unclear. We sought to evaluate the incidence of malnutrition in Fontan patients and the impact on outcomes.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study of children who underwent Fontan surgery between 1997 and 2018. Clinical, demographic, and nutrition data were collected, including weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and their respective z scores (z score for weight‐for‐age [WAZ], z score for height‐for‐age [HAZ], and z score for BMI‐for‐age [BMIZ]) pre‐Fontan, at discharge, 6 months, and 1, 5, and 10 years post‐Fontan. Malnutrition status was categorized using the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition guidelines and the Michigan MTool. Fontan failure was defined as listing for heart transplant or death.

Results

Of the 69 patients, moderate‐severe malnutrition occurred at any time point in 11% (n = 8) by WAZ, 16% (n = 11) by HAZ, and 6% (n = 4) by BMIZ. Moderate‐severe malnutrition persisted in 6.5%–12.9% at 10 years post‐Fontan. Compared with the pre‐Fontan period, there was no change in these parameters over time. There was no statistically significant difference in Fontan failure between degrees of pre‐Fontan malnutrition.

Conclusion

There is a 6%–16% incidence of moderate‐severe malnutrition in Fontan patients. Malnutrition is a condition that remains present in follow‐up. There was no association with anthropometric parameters and transplant‐free survival. A prospective multi‐institutional study is needed to understand the impact of malnutrition on long‐term outcomes.
Using systems perspectives in evidence synthesis: A methodological mapping review
Authors: Hong Quan Nha , Bangpan Mukdarut , Stansfield Claire , Kneale Dylan , O'Mara‐Eves Alison , van Grootel Leonie , Thomas James
Published: August 2022

Reviewing complex interventions is challenging because they include many elements that can interact dynamically in a nonlinear manner. A systems perspective offers a way of thinking to help understand complex issues, but its application in evidence synthesis is not established. The aim of this project was to understand how and why systems perspectives have been applied in evidence synthesis. A methodological mapping review was conducted to identify papers using a systems perspective in evidence synthesis. A search was conducted in seven bibliographic databases and three search engines. A total of 101 papers (representing 98 reviews) met the eligibility criteria. Two categories of reviews were identified: (1) reviews using a “systems lens” to frame the topic, generate hypotheses, select studies, and guide the analysis and interpretation of findings (n = 76) and (2) reviews using systems methods to develop a systems model (n = 22). Several methods (e.g., systems dynamic modeling, soft systems approach) were identified, and they were used to identify, rank and select elements, analyze interactions, develop models, and forecast needs. The main reasons for using a systems perspective were to address complexity, view the problem as a whole, and understand the interrelationships between the elements. Several challenges for capturing the true nature and complexity of a problem were raised when performing these methods. This review is a useful starting point when designing evidence synthesis of complex interventions. It identifies different opportunities for applying a systems perspective in evidence synthesis, and highlights both commonplace and less familiar methods.
Combination of microwave‐assisted solvent extraction and effervescence‐assisted deep eutectic solvent‐based in‐syringe dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction and its application in the extraction of triazine pesticides from apple samples
Authors: Safaei Sepideh , Atazadeh Ramin , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2022

In the current study, a combination of microwave‐assisted solvent extraction combined with effervescence‐assisted deep eutectic solvent‐based in‐syringe dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction has been developed as a new sample pretreatment method. The offered method was used for the extraction of five triazine pesticides (atrazine, propazine, cyanazine, ametryn, and simazine) from apple samples before their determination by gas chromatography–flame ionization detection. For this purpose, briefly, the apple sample was contacted with a suitable acidified extraction solvent and the mixture was exposed to microwave irradiations. Then, the supernatant was taken and mixed with a few microliters of a low‐density deep eutectic solvent. The supernatant phase containing the extracted analytes was injected into a sodium bicarbonate solution filled into a syringe. Consequently, the effervescence reaction occurs and the analytes were extracted into the fine droplets of extractant dispersed throughout the solution. Afterward, an aliquot of this phase was analyzed by the chromatographic system. Satisfactory outcomes include high enrichment factors (228–261) and extraction recoveries (67–87%), good repeatability (relative standard deviations equal to or less than 3.2% and 5.3% for intra– and inter‐day precisions), and low limits of detection (0.4–0.7 ng/g) and quantification (1.4–2.3 ng/g) were acquired under the best experimental situations.
Targeted discovery and characterization of secoiridoid glycosides from Jasminum pentaneurum Hand.‐Mazz by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadruple time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry based on diagnostic ion and neutral loss filtering strategy
Authors: Wei Wei , Wang Xiangying , Hao Erwei , Zhang Meng , Xie Jinling , Du Zhengcai , Hou Xiaotao , Deng Jiagang
Published: August 2022

In this study, we proposed an integrated analytical strategy for the rapid and comprehensive discovery of a specific class of secoiridoid glycosides from a Yao medicine, Jasminum pentaneurum Hand.‐Mazz. The strategy fully took advantage of the accuracy of ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadruple time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, and the efficiency of diagnostic ion filtering and neutral loss filtering. Twenty‐four secoiridoid glycosides, including three known ones and 21 unreported ones, were rapidly discovered and characterized based on the detail analysis of their mass spectrometry data. Particularly, 10‐syringicoyl‐ligustroside (18) was isolated under the guidance of mass spectrometry analysis. Its chemical structure was elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic data analysis, and absolute configuration was further elucidated by comparison of its experimental and electronic circular dichroism spectra. Furthermore, the mass spectrometry data of 18 was analyzed and the corresponding results indicated that its fragment pathway was fully consistent with the applied diagnostic ion filtering and neutral loss filtering rules, and thus the precision and efficiency of the integrated strategy were validated. The result demonstrated that the proposed integrated strategy could serve as a rapid, accurate, and comprehensive targeted components discovery method to effectively screen out those ingredients of interest from the complex herbal medicines.
Network analysis of mild traumatic brain injury, persistent neurobehavioral and psychiatric symptoms, and functional disability among recent‐era United States veterans
Authors: Fonda Jennifer R. , Crowe Michael L. , Levin Laura K. , Jagger‐Rickels Audreyana , Marx Brian P. , Milberg William P. , McGlinchey Regina E. , Fortier Catherine B.
Published: August 2022

Recent‐era U.S. veterans are clinically complex, with a high prevalence of co‐occurring mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), psychiatric conditions, and behavioral dysfunction. The current study examined the direct and indirect associations between mTBI and persistent neurobehavioral, psychiatric, and functional disability symptoms among recent‐era U.S. veterans and service members (n = 648). We evaluated the postconcussive syndrome (PCS) potential causal model with two network analysis modeling approaches. Separate analyses were conducted for military mTBI and lifetime mTBI. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted to limit topological overlap in the network analysis. The most influential symptoms (i.e., the unique variables most strongly associated with the rest of the network) in the military mTBI network were behavioral disengagement, expected influence (EI) = 1.10; cognitive difficulties, EI = 1.08; agitation/irritability, EI = 1.05; and PTSD‐related reexperiencing and avoidance symptoms, EI = 0.98. After accounting for other symptoms, mTBI was only minimally informative, EI = 0.34. Additionally, military mTBI did not moderate the association between symptoms or the overall connectivity of the network. The results for lifetime mTBI were consistent with those for military mTBI. The present analyses identified a variety of behavioral, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that play an important role in understanding comorbidity and daily functioning among recent‐era U.S. veterans. Associations between cumulative mTBI that occurred in civilian or military settings were indirect and relatively small in magnitude. The current results add to a growing literature raising doubts about the PCS model.
A Validated 3D Printed Laryngeal Suturing Simulator for Endoscopic Laryngeal Cleft Repair
Authors: Richardson Clare M. , Zopf David A. , Ikeda Allison K. , van Horn Adam , Cohen Katheryn , Nourmohammadi Zahra , Nassar Michel , Park Jason S. , Johnson Kaalan E.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Endoscopic laryngeal cleft repair (ELCR) with endolaryngeal suturing is an advanced surgical skill. This study objective was to assess the validity of 3‐dimensionally (3D) printed laryngeal suturing simulator for ELCR.

Study Design

Development and validation of a simulator for ELCR.

Methods

An ELCR model was developed using 3D printed and readily available materials. Participants were surveyed before and after a simulation session using five‐point Likert scale questions. Performance data was assessed using blinded expert video review and rated using a novel objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) for endoscopic laryngeal suturing.

Results

Twenty‐one participants ranging from residents to attendings completed the simulation session. Survey respondents reported on a five‐point Likert scale that the model was “easy to use” and “quite realistic” (both mean of 4). Confidence improved significantly in 86% of participants (p < 0.01). Overall OSATS scores (out of a total of 55) showed a median improvement in technical skills of 11.7 points (p = 0.004). OSATS demonstrated good intra‐rater (κ = 0.689 and 0.677) and moderate inter‐rater (κ = 0.573) reliability. Completion times improved from the first to the last suture by a median time of 512 to 350 s (decrease of 202 s, p = 0.002). Participants with no prior ELCR experience improved more than those with in vivo experience.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the validity of a simulator utilizing 3D printed larynges for ELCR. A novel OSATS for endoscopic laryngeal suturing was successfully implemented. Confidence, technical skills, and completion times improved with the use of the model across a variety of participants. Laryngoscope, 133:785–791, 2023
Diagnostic value of CBCT in Chinese children with adenoid hypertrophy
Authors: Gao Dekun , Sun Xiayu , Yang Ying , Yang Jun , Cheng Lan
Published: August 2022

Objective

The main objectives of the study were to investigate the reliability and accuracy of cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the diagnosis of adenoid hypertrophy in Chinese children and to evaluate its value in clinical diagnosis.

Methods

From January 2019 to January 2020, 300 children with sleep snoring in Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Shanghai Jiaotong University were retrospectively studied. All patients underwent nasopharyngoscopy (NE) and CBCT scanning. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio of CBCT were determined according to the diagnostic criteria of NE, and the consistency between CBCT and NE was evaluated.

Results

The clinical study of 300 children patients found that compared with NE, CBCT had a sensitivity of 87.3%, specificity of 89.2%, the positive predictive value of 93.20%, the negative predictive value of 80.5%, the positive likelihood ratio of 8.08, the negative likelihood ratio of 0.14, and Kappa value of .748.

Conclusion

CBCT is a reliable and accurate tool for the diagnosis of adenoid hypertrophy and can be used as an alternative examination method for children with contraindications or intolerance during NE.

Level of Evidence

4.