bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Geochemical Fractionation of Fulvic Acid on its Spectral Characteristics and its Protection Against Copper Toxicity to Daphnia magna
Authors: Dee Kato T. , Meyer Joseph S. , Smith Kathleen S. , Ranville James F.
Published: December 2022

Dissolved copper (Cu) can contribute to toxicity in aquatic systems impacted by acid mine drainage (AMD), and its bioavailability is influenced by aqueous complexation with organic ligands that predominantly include fulvic acids (FAs). Because the geochemical fractionation of FAs that accompanies sorption to hydrous aluminum oxides (HAOs) and hydrous iron oxides (HFOs) can alter Cu complexation with FA, we investigated FAs isolated from three categories of water (pristine, AMD, and in situ-fractionated mixtures of pristine and AMD collected at stream confluences) in three mining-impacted alpine watersheds in central Colorado, USA. We also conducted geochemical fractionation of field-collected FAs and Suwannee River FAs by precipitating HAOs and HFOs in the laboratory. Spectral properties of the FAs (e.g., UV-VIS absorbance) were altered by geochemical fractionation, and in acute toxicity tests with an aquatic invertebrate (Daphnia magna) Cu was more toxic in the presence of in situ- and laboratory-fractionated FAs (median effect concentration [EC50] 19–50 µg Cu L−1) than in the presence of nonfractionated FAs (EC50 48–146 µg Cu L−1). After adjusting for the strain-specific sensitivity of our D. magna, we improved the accuracy of Biotic Ligand Model predictions of Cu EC50 values for AMD-related FAs by using an “effective dissolved organic carbon” based on spectral properties that account for among-FA differences in protectiveness against Cu toxicity. However, some differences remained between predicted and measured EC50 values, especially for FAs from AMD-related waters that might contain important metal-binding moieties not accounted for by our measured spectral indices. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:449–462. © 2022 SETAC
Tunnel Drammen (Norway) – Solution for excavating a tunnel in loose soil with the presence of groundwater
Authors: Gallego Francisco , Matt Kajetan , Helgason Einar
Published: December 2022

The soil tunnel in Drammen (Norway), part of Bane NOR's ‘New Double Track Drammen–Kobbervikdalen' project, has a length of 290 m; however, the different unfavourable boundary conditions combined with a large excavation cross section (156 m2) make this section the most technically challenging part of the project. The soil tunnel is driven mostly in saturated glaciofluvial sediments, which consist primarily of sand and gravel with a low content of fines, resulting in a low cohesion to cohesionless soil. The groundwater level, always within or above the tunnel section, cannot be lowered during the construction due to project requirements. These geological/hydrogeological conditions together with the large cross section present a high‐risk scenario for any tunnelling project and, in the case of Norway, an unprecedented challenge. Moreover, the tunnel is located in an urban area and has a low overburden of just 8 to 9 m during the first 80 m. For the client it was critical that the design solution was safe, robust, and able to respond to the existing level of uncertainty and potential unexpected occurrences. ILF's design is able to answer these technical challenges while removing many of the typical risks associated to saturated soil tunnelling with a solution that relies mainly on extensive pre‐excavation ground improvement works in the form of jet grouting executed from the surface.
Contribution of modern blasting technology to achieve accurate contour profiles in tunneling
Authors: Ganster Mark
Published: December 2022

The profile accuracy during tunnel excavation will be influenced by several factors. Basically the design of the blasting pattern, the confinement conditions, the peak particle velocity generated, the escape of the gas volume and the geology are shown here, which are decisive criteria for successfully avoiding damage induced by blasting operations. Smooth blasting methods have been used successfully for years to minimize rock damage. By using electronic initiation systems in combination with software programs for modeling the energy conditions and the peak particle velocities generated, subsidence damage caused by blasting can be largely avoided.
Västlänken – The West Link Project, Korsvägen construction section in Gothenburg, Sweden
Authors: Stephan Sara , Renz Florian , Hoffmann Björn
Published: December 2022

West Link (Swedish: Västlänken) is one of the biggest infrastructure projects in Sweden building an in total 8 km double‐track railway tunnel in Gothenburg, which is currently under construction. “E05 Korsvägen” is a construction lot which is part of the West Link project with the Swedish transport authority Trafikverket as the client. The works were awarded to the Joint Venture (JV) West Link Contractors consisting of Wayss & Freytag Ingenieurbau AG and NCC. A special contract model with a design and build part combined with a regular bill of quantities comprises building an underground double‐track railway tunnel with a length of 3.2 km and the new Korsvägen station. This sub‐project includes three drill and blast sections and three open excavation sections. All three construction pits will be executed in challenging soft ground conditions. The JV is confronted with high environmental demands and special requirements for the blasting works in the urban area of Gothenburg.
Early Yanshanian metallogenesis of the Banjing tungsten deposit in Ganxian, Jiangxi province, China: Constraints from geochemistry, Sr–Nd isotopes, zircon U–Pb, molybdenite Re–Os, and mica 40Ar–39Ar dating
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Fu Jianming , Lu Youyue , Cheng Shunbo , Ma Liyan , Chen Xiqing , Quan Hongyan , Ma Kemeng
Published: December 2022

The Banjing tungsten deposit, which has been discovered recently, is located in the northernmost part of the Dabu pluton, southern Jiangxi Province, China. In this study, zircon LA‐ICP‐MS U–Pb dating of the fine‐grained porphyritic biotite granite indicate that it was formed in the early Yanshanian (159.4 ± 2.5 Ma–161.6 ± 0.8 Ma). Whole‐rock geochemical studies have shown the fine‐grained porphyritic biotite granite has SiO2 of 75.82%–76.84%, Al2O3 12.50%–12.87%, MgO 0.07%–0.20%, and CaO 0.64%–1.09%, with A/CNK of 1.017–1.038. It has a total rare earth elements content of 93.9–118.9 ppm with strong negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.021–0.081). The biotite granite is enriched in Rb, Th, U, Nd and depleted in Ba, Sr, Nb, Ti. These data suggest the Dabu pluton belongs to S‐type granite. This pluton has ISr of 0.71212–0.72929 and εNd(t) from −9.60 to −10.62 with Nd model ages concentrated in 1732–1838 Ma. These isotopic data in combination with zircon Hf isotopes suggest the biotite granite originated from partial melting of the Middle Proterozoic metamorphic supracrustal rocks in South China, with a minor contribution from juvenile crust. Meanwhile, this study has obtained Re–Os isochron ages of the intrusion‐related and quartz vein‐type molybdenum mineralization are 156.3 ± 2.7 Ma and 157.0 ± 1.1 Ma in the Banjing tungsten deposit, respectively. Sericite from the greisen‐type tungsten‐molybdenum ore has an 40Ar–39Ar plateau age of 156.4 ± 1.0 Ma, interpreted as the formation age of this deposit. Collectively, the Banjing tungsten deposit is considered as a product of the early Yanshanian large‐scale peak mineralization in South China, which was formed in an extensional intracontinental environment caused by the subduction of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate.
Clarifying the Ethics and Oversight of Chimeric Research
Authors: Johnston Josephine , Hyun Insoo , Neuhaus Carolyn P. , Maschke Karen J. , Marshall Patricia , Craig Kaitlynn P. , Matthews Margaret M. , Drolet Kara , Greely Henry T. , Hill Lori R. , Hinterberger Amy , Hurley Elisa A. , Kesterson Robert , Kimmelman Jonathan , King Nancy M. P. , Lopes Melissa J. , O'Rourke P. Pearl , Parent Brendan , Peckman Steven , Piotrowska Monika , Schwarz May , Sebo Jeff , Stodgell Chris , Streiffer Robert , Wilkerson Amy
Published: December 2022

This article is the lead piece in a special report that presents the results of a bioethical investigation into chimeric research, which involves the insertion of human cells into nonhuman animals and nonhuman animal embryos, including into their brains. Rapid scientific developments in this field may advance knowledge and could lead to new therapies for humans. They also reveal the conceptual, ethical, and procedural limitations of existing ethics guidance for human‐nonhuman chimeric research.

Led by bioethics researchers working closely with an interdisciplinary work group, the investigation focused on generating conceptual clarity and identifying improvements to governance approaches, with the goal of helping scholars, funders, scientists, institutional leaders, and oversight bodies (embryonic stem cell research oversight [ESCRO] committees and institutional animal care and use committees [IACUCs]) deliver principled and trustworthy oversight of this area of science. The article, which focuses on human‐nonhuman animal chimeric research that is stem cell based, identifies key ethical issues in and offers ten recommendations regarding the ethics and oversight of this research. Turning from bioethics’ previous focus on human‐centered questions about the ethics of “humanization” and this research's potential impact on concepts like human dignity, this article emphasizes the importance of nonhuman animal welfare concerns in chimeric research and argues for less‐siloed governance and oversight and more‐comprehensive public communication.
Metallic foam with cross flow heat exchanger: A review of parameters, performance, and challenges
Authors: Hassan Ahmed M. , Alwan Adil Abbas , Hamzah Hameed Kadhem
Published: December 2022

The cross‐flow heat exchanger involves a tractor moving between two fluids that flow in a direction perpendicular to each other, and one of the fluids is often a liquid and the other is a gas. This type of heat exchanger has been studied in many previous studies for its importance in air conditioning applications and many industrial applications. In this type of heat exchanger, the surface area for heat transfer is very large. Therefore, many techniques have been used to improve the thermal and dynamic performance of this type of heat exchanger. In this study, previous studies that used metallic foam as one of the ways to improve the performance of heat exchangers were reviewed. The most important techniques that were used in previous studies during the process of evaluating the thermal performance of a cross‐flow heat exchanger in the presence of different types of metal foam were clarified. The use of metal foam depends on important factors, including (1) the type of material, where copper and aluminum were used in most of the previous studies, due to their availability and ease of foam formation using these materials, in addition to the good thermal properties, (2) porosity, where the porosity value of metal foam ranged between 0.85 and 0.98 in the previous studies, (3) the density of pores, most of the studies ranged between 10 and 40 PPI.
Vancomycin functionalization of gold nanostars for sensitive detection of foodborne pathogens through surface‐enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Dayalan Sandhiya , Gedda Gangaraju , Li Ruei–Nian , Zulfajri Muhammad , Huang Genin Gary
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we report a sensitive surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) biosensor for the detection of food‐borne pathogens on the basis of recognition of bacterial cells through the specific targeting agent vancomycin. Vancomycin‐functionalized gold nanostars (GNSs–4–MBA–van) were synthesized as SERS tags for specific and sensitive quantification of food pathogens. The Raman reporter molecule 4–mercaptobenzoic acid (4–MBA) was also a linker molecule to attach vancomycin to gold nanostars. The proposed vancomycin‐based SERS technique achieved a detection limit of 5.7 and 8.2 CFU/ml forStaphylococcus aureusandEscherichia coli, respectively. The logarithm of the bacterial concentration ranged from 101to 107 CFU/ml and demonstrated a linear relationship with the SERS intensity of the characteristic 4–MBA Raman peak at 1,081 cm−1. Principle component analysis was used to discriminate the two pathogens simultaneously by using reproducible and specific intrinsic fingerprints and intracellular components obtained through SERS. Moreover, the spiking tests revealed that GNSs–4–MBA–van is effective as a potential biosensor for detecting pathogens in the fresh meat and food‐processing industries.
A Phase II Trial of Abiraterone With Dutasteride for Second‐Generation Antiandrogen‐ and Chemotherapy‐Naïve Patients With Castration‐Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Shiota Masaki , Inoue Ryo , Tashiro Kojiro , Kobayashi Keita , Horiyama Shizuyo , Kanji Hiromi , Eto Masatoshi , Egawa Shin , Haginaka Jun , Matsuyama Hideyasu
Published: December 2022

The development of a novel therapy to overcome primary and acquired resistance to abiraterone is an unmet need. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding 5α‐reductase inhibitor dutasteride to abiraterone, explore proof of concept, and identify candidates suitable for combination therapy. This phase II, single‐arm, and open‐label study enrolled second‐generation antiandrogen‐ and chemotherapy‐naïve patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer. Patients received abiraterone and prednisolone for 4 weeks, followed by adding dutasteride. The primary end point was a 50% prostate‐specific antigen response rate. Serum concentrations of abiraterone and its metabolites as well as HSD3B1 and SRD5A2 genotypes were measured. The association between drug metabolism and genotypes and their impact on the efficacy of combination therapy were assessed. Among 21 patients, 18 (85.7%) achieved ≥50% PSA reduction. Median time to treatment failure was not reached during the median follow‐up of 15.4 months. No patients experienced grade ≥3 adverse events. Although dutasteride reduced serum 3‐keto‐5α‐abiraterone concentrations, higher serum 3‐keto‐5α‐abiraterone concentrations on combination therapy were associated with a shorter time to treatment failure. HSD3B1 and SRD5A2 genotypes were associated with serum Δ4‐abiraterone and 3‐keto‐5α‐abiraterone concentrations before adding dutasteride, respectively. Time to treatment failure was longer in patients with homozygous wild‐type HSD3B1, but comparable between those with the SRD5A2 genotype. The promising outcomes of this study warrant further investigation of combination therapy in a randomized trial. Stratification by HSD3B1 and SRD5A2 genetic profiles might identify patients suitable for combination therapy.
A simple screening method for distillation sequence of thermally coupled dividing wall column: distillation sequence morphological analysis method (DSMAM)
Authors: Li Wenyan , Cheng Xiaomin , Li Zhongyang , Fang Zhiqiang , Li Hao , Fang Jing
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Distillation is a separation process with a high energy consumption. Therefore, energy‐saving optimizations of the distillation process have become particularly significant. However, developing methods to quickly choose the best energy‐saving distillation sequence for the separation of multiple components has become a key problem.

RESULTS

In this paper, the Distillation Sequence Morphometry Analysis Method (DSMAM) was established to quickly screen energy‐saving and efficient distillation sequences and was integrated with a Dividing‐wall column (DWC) device, which has more industrial significance. Meanwhile, an evaluation and screening index η of separated multicomponent energy‐saving distillation sequences was proposed. Finally, based on the DSMAM, and combined with Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 (VB) and Aspen Plus V11 (Aspen) software, a set of distillation sequence screening and evaluation programs of four‐component separation systems was generated. The distillation column sequence with high thermodynamic efficiency and the energy‐saving coupling structure of distillation were obtained quickly and accurately.

CONCLUSION

This program was applied to the separation of the n‐butane‐benzene‐n‐heptane‐n‐nonane system. It was able to quickly obtain the first three energy‐saving distillation sequences without thermal coupling and the first three energy‐saving distillation sequences in the search space. The direct‐thermal coupling distillation sequence of the energy‐saving fluid was integrated and coupled, providing a preliminary design reference for industrial design and application. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Are service crops an alternative for mitigating N2O emissions in soybean crops in the Argentinian Pampas?
Authors: Petrasek Marcos René , Piñeiro Gervasio , Bonvecchi Virginia Enriqueta , Yahdjian Laura
Published: December 2022

Service crops (or cover crops) play an important role in simplified agricultural systems. Service crops reduce agricultural external inputs and increase ecosystem services but their ability to mitigate nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions is still uncertain. The main objective of this study was to evaluate N2O emissions in soybean–soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr) rotations that included different service crops. Treatments included continuous soybean with winter fallow and soybean with three service crops: oat (Avena sativa L.), vetch (Vicia villosa Roth.), and a mixture of oat and vetch in a randomized complete block design. Service crops were sown 2 months after soybean harvest and were terminated 2 months before soybean planting. Nitrous oxide emissions were determined during the fourth year of the field experiment. We found that service crops did not significantly affect overall mean N2O emission rates, with mean emission rates from the fallow, oat, vetch, and oat‐vetch treatments of 1.82 ± 0.35, 1.95 ± 0.34, 2.71 ± 0.43, and 2.42 ± 0.42 kg N2O‐N ha−1 per year, respectively. Service crops with low C/N ratios (vetch and oat‐vetch mixtures) significantly increased N2O emissions in spring, after their termination. Overall, soil inorganic N content (NO3− or NH4+) was the main driver that explained the N2O emissions from different treatments, whereas water‐filled pore space controlled the temporal variability of emissions. Our results suggest that service crops with a very short growing season may increase soil N availability for cash crops, but do not reduce N2O emissions due to long periods of high N availability without crops.
Ni‐Ferrite an efficient catalyst for synthesis of 3‐aryl substituted isoxazole‐5‐carboxylic acids via one‐pot multicomponent reaction
Authors: Totre Ganesh , Shinde Dnyaneshwar , Patil Prakash , Kulkarni Pramod
Published: December 2022

Here, we have reported an efficient one‐pot, three‐component reaction between various aryl aldehydes, NH2OH.HCl, and propargyl alcohol using Ni‐Fe2O4 as a nanocatalyst. Reactions were performed in ethanol at room temperature to obtain various 3‐aryl substituted isoxazole‐5‐carboxylic acids. The advantage of this protocol is that it formed isoxazole derivatives with free carboxylic acid functionality in one pot, which could transform into various other functional groups. This approach has several merits, including a quick reaction time, a wide range of substrates, excellent product yields, and reusable catalysts.
Particle Tracing Based on 4D Flow Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Systematic Review into Methods, Applications, and Current Developments
Authors: Roos Paul R. , Rijnberg Friso M. , Westenberg Jos J. M. , Lamb Hildo J.
Published: December 2022

Background

Particle tracing based on 4D Flow MRI has been applied as a quantitative and qualitative postprocessing technique to study temporally evolving blood flow patterns.

Purpose

To systematically review the various methods to perform 4D Flow MRI‐based particle tracing, as well as the clinical value, clinical applications, and current developments of the technique.

Study type

The study type is systematic review.

Subjects

Patients with cardiovascular disease (such as Marfan, Fontan, Tetralogy of Fallot), healthy controls, and cardiovascular phantoms that received 4D Flow MRI with particle tracing.

Field Strength/Sequence

Three‐dimensional three‐directional cine phase‐contrast MRI, at 1.5 T and 3 T.

Assessment

Two systematic searches were performed on the PubMed database using Boolean operators and the relevant key terms covering 4D Flow MRI and particle tracing. One systematic search was focused on particle tracing methods, whereas the other on applications. Additional articles from other sources were sought out and included after a similar inspection. Particle tracing methods, clinical applications, clinical value, and current developments were extracted.

Statistical Tests

The main results of the included studies are summarized, without additional statistical analysis.

Results

Of 127 unique articles retrieved from the initial search, 56 were included (28 for methods and 54 for applications). Most articles that described particle tracing methods used an adaptive timestep, a fourth order Runge–Kutta integration method, and linear interpolation in the time dimension. Particle tracing was applied in heart chambers, aorta, venae cavae, Fontan circulation, pulmonary arteries, abdominal vasculature, peripheral arteries, carotid arteries, and cerebral vasculature. Applications were grouped as intravascular, intracardiac, flow stasis, and research.

Data Conclusions

Particle tracing based on 4D Flow MRI gives unique insight into blood flow in several cardiovascular diseases, but the quality depends heavily on the MRI data quality. Further studies are required to evaluate the clinical value of the technique for different cardiovascular diseases.

Evidence Level

5.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1.
Analysis of mutational history of multidrug‐resistant genotypes with a mutagenetic tree model
Authors: Pirkl Martin , Büch Joachim , Devaux Carole , Böhm Michael , Sönnerborg Anders , Incardona Francesca , Abecasis Ana , Vandamme Anne‐Mieke , Zazzi Maurizio , Kaiser Rolf , Lengauer Thomas , The EuResist Network Study Group
Published: December 2022

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can develop resistance to all antiretroviral drugs. Multidrug resistance, however, is a rare event in modern HIV treatment, but can be life‐threatening, particular in patients with very long therapy histories and in areas with limited access to novel drugs. To understand the evolution of multidrug resistance, we analyzed the EuResist database to uncover the accumulation of mutations over time. We hypothesize that the accumulation of resistance mutations is not acquired simultaneously and randomly across viral genotypes but rather tends to follow a predetermined order. The knowledge of this order might help to elucidate potential mechanisms of multidrug resistance. Our evolutionary model shows an almost monotonic increase of resistance with each acquired mutation, including less well‐known nucleoside reverse transcriptase (RT) inhibitor‐related mutations like K223Q, L228H, and Q242H. Mutations within the integrase (IN) (T97A, E138A/K G140S, Q148H, N155H) indicate high probability of multidrug resistance. Hence, these IN mutations also tend to be observed together with mutations in the protease (PR) and RT. We followed up with an analysis of the mutation‐specific error rates of our model given the data. We identified several mutations with unusual rates (PR: M41L, L33F, IN: G140S). This could imply the existence of previously unknown virus variants in the viral quasispecies. In conclusion, our bioinformatics model supports the analysis and understanding of multidrug resistance.
Strong, Chemically Stable, and Enzymatically On‐Demand Detachable Hydrogel Adhesion Using Protein Crosslink
Authors: Lee Wonseok , Heo Eunseok , Koo Hye Been , Cho In , Chang Jae‐Byum
Published: December 2022

Achieving strong adhesion between hydrogels and diverse materials is greatly significant for emerging technologies yet remains challenging. Existing methods using non‐covalent bonds have limited pH and ion stability, while those using covalent bonds typically lack on‐demand detachment capability, limiting their applications. In this study, a general strategy of covalent bond‐based and detachable adhesion by incorporating amine‐rich proteins in various hydrogels and inducing the interfacial crosslinking of the hydrogels using a protein‐crosslinking agent is demonstrated. The protein crosslink offers topological adhesion and can reach a strong adhesion energy of ≈750 J m−2. The chemistry of the adhesion is characterized and that the inclusion of proteins inside the hydrogels does not alter the hydrogels’ properties is shown. The adhesion remains intact after treating the adhered hydrogels with various pH solutions and ions, even at an elevated temperature. The detachment is triggered by treating proteinase solution at the bonding front, causing the digestion of proteins, thus breaking up the interfacial crosslink network. In addition, that this approach can be used to adhere hydrogels to diverse dry surfaces, including glass, elastomers and plastics, is shown. The stable chemistry of protein crosslinks opens the door for various applications in a wide range of chemical environments.
Multiple dynamics in a delayed predator‐prey model with asymmetric functional and numerical responses
Authors: Ghosh Bapan , Barman Binandita , Saha Manideepa
Published: December 2022

We consider a predator‐prey model with dissimilar functional and numerical responses that induce an Allee effect. There is a time lag between consumption and digestion of prey biomass by predator. Hence, a time delay has been incorporated in the numerical response function. The system consists of two interior equilibria. Taking time delay as the bifurcation parameter, four different dynamic behaviors appear, viz., (R1) system undergoes no change in its stability for all time delay, (R2) system undergoes stability change, (R3) system undergoes stability switching, and (R4) system undergoes instability switching. Here, finding four distinct dynamics in a single population model with only one delay is a novelty in this contribution. This variation in dynamics emerges due to asymmetricity in functional and numerical responses. All the relevant theorems in establishing stability are provided, and these are verified numerically. We analytically prove that if an interior equilibrium is a saddle point in absence of time delay, then the equilibrium cannot be stabilized by varying the time delay. It is popularly believed that existence of two distinct pair of purely imaginary roots of the characteristic function leads to stability switching. However, we provide examples where the system remains unstable, stability changes, and instability switching occurs. This is another new and interesting observation in our work. The numerical examples are furnished with phase portraits, time series plots, bifurcation diagrams, and eigenvalues evaluation with delay, for better understanding. Our model with a single delay exhibits variety of dynamics, which were not explored before.
A case of postpsychotic depression improved by switching antipsychotic monotherapy
Authors: Oguchi Yoshiyo , Nakagawa Atsuo , Kocha Hiroki
Published: December 2022

Aim

Postpsychotic depression is challenging to differentiate, yet it is clinically frequent, puts patients at risk for suicide, and affects their mental capacity. Treatment with antipsychotics for postpsychotic depression is desirable; however, there is no consensus on which antipsychotics are optimal.

Case presentation

We report the case of a young male patient with schizophrenia in his 20s who developed postpsychotic depression, including despair, overwhelming loss, humiliation, and suicidal ideation during treatment with paliperidone. As a result, we switched his medication to lurasidone, which relieved his depressive symptoms without any symptom relapse and his social functioning improved.

Conclusion

Postpsychotic depression has more psychic characteristics than behavioral. According to various international guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia, antipsychotics should be administered for depressive symptoms of schizophrenia. As evidenced in this case report, lurasidone may be a practical alternative for improving postpsychotic depression.
A minimax algorithm based on Newton's method and an application for finding multiple solutions of p‐area problems
Authors: Patra Suchismita , Kumar V. V. K. Srinivas
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we present a numerical scheme which is an improved minimax method proposed by Yao‐Zhou's study along with Newton's method for finding the multiple solutions of p‐area problems. It is combined with Newton's method since the local minimax method stagnates close to a critical point of the functional whereas Newton's method converges rapidly close to a critical point. We discuss the theoretical convergence result of this proposed hybrid scheme and the convergence of the finite element based solutions as well. Further, we carry out instability analysis of the unstable solutions through their local minimax type characterizations, where the instability behavior of a solution can be analyzed before calculating the solution. This analysis also provides ways to numerically compute the Morse index of the solutions. Finally, numerical experiments are performed to demonstrate the algorithm and the theoretical results.
Harmonica consensus, controversies, and future directions in radiotherapy for pediatric Wilms tumors
Authors: McAleer Mary Frances , Melchior Patrick , Parkes Jeannette , Pater Luke , Rübe Christian , Saunders Daniel , Paulino Arnold C. , Janssens Geert O. , Kalapurakal John
Published: December 2022

Radiotherapy (RT) is essential for multimodality treatment of pediatric renal tumors, particularly in higher‐risk and metastatic disease. Despite decades of use, particularly for Wilms tumor, there remain controversies regarding RT indications, timing, dose, and targets. To align global management, we address these issues in this international HARMONIsation and CollAboration (HARMONICA) project. There are multiple knowledge gaps and opportunities for future research including: (1) utilization of advanced RT technologies, including intensity‐modulated RT, proton beam therapy, combined with image‐guided RT to reduce target volumes; (2) impact of molecular biomarkers including loss of heterozygosity at 1p, 16q, and 1q gain on RT indications; (3) mitigation of reproductive toxicity following RT; (4) promotion of RT late effects research; and (5) support to overcome challenges in RT utilization in low‐ and middle‐income countries where 90% of the world's children reside. Here, we outline current status and future directions for RT in pediatric renal tumors.
Scoping review of rational polytherapy in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy
Authors: Grinalds McKenzie S. , Yoder Caleb , Krauss Zach , Chen Aleda M. , Rhoney Denise H.
Published: December 2022

There is a paucity of literature regarding the optimal selection of combination antiseizure medications (ASMs) for drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE). The aim of this scoping review is to evaluate current evidence related to “rational polytherapy” among adults with DRE. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐SCr) guidelines, PubMed, ProQuest, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases were searched using DRE‐ and polytherapy‐related keywords. The exclusion criteria applied included: non‐English; non‐human studies; non‐research studies; participants less than 18 years; status epilepticus; ASM monotherapy; and certain ASMs. In Covidence, two researchers independently reviewed articles for inclusion at each phase, with a third resolving conflicts. Data were extracted, with quality appraisal using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Of the 6477 studies imported for screening, 33 studies were included. Clinical, humanistic, and economic outcomes were reported by 26, 12, and one study, respectively. Common efficacy‐related clinical outcomes included ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency (n = 14), seizure freedom (n = 14), and percent reduction in seizure frequency (n = 8). Common humanistic outcomes included quality of life (n = 4), medication adherence (n = 2), sleep‐related outcomes (n = 2), and physician and patient global assessments (n = 2). The economic study reported quality‐adjusted life years. The median MMAT score was 80 (range: 60–100). Two studies referenced the standard definition of DRE, whereas five studies did not specifically define DRE. Gaps in the literature include limited generalizability, minimal reports in pregnancy, and lack of optimal ASM combinations, among others. Strengths of the evidence include addressing a variety of outcomes. Inconsistent definitions of DRE, small sample sizes, and heterogeneity among studies limit the ability to draw meaningful conclusions. Optimal combinations of ASMs for rational polytherapy for DRE is unclear.
Systematic and evaluative review of school climate instruments for students, teachers, and parents
Authors: Gonzálvez Carolina , Bacon Victoria , Kearney Christopher A.
Published: December 2022

This study involved a systematic and evaluative review of school climate measures to catalog main domains and subdomains and rate parameters of instrument presentation and psychometric quality. Four databases were used (Web of Science, Scopus, ERIC, and PsycINFO) and 37 instruments (studies) met inclusion criteria (instrument measured school climate; psychometric properties of the instrument were provided; every instrument included in the review has its original version published; the article was in English or Spanish; the article was a peer‐reviewed publication). Information was synthesized according to instrument presentation and psychometric quality. The expansion of literature search routes was designed to mitigate publication bias. Analysis revealed four main domains among extant school climate measures: relationships (social relationships, school connectedness, leadership, and culture), environment (school facilities, physical comfort, and cleanliness), safety/discipline (school safety, fairness of rules, bullying and aggression, disciplinary harshness, and general drug use), and academic (academic outcomes, equality of opportunity, engagement, and cohesiveness/competitiveness). This domain/subdomain architecture could serve as a touchstone for conceptualizing school climate and developing and refining future assessment devices for this construct. The domain/subdomain architecture could also help guide school reform efforts. Limitations included possible publication bias and an exclusive focus on questionnaires and not other methods to assess school climate.
Linking intervention experiences to child outcomes in a school‐based social skills training program
Authors: Ho Leslie C. , Bierman Karen L. , Jacobson Linda N. , Welsh Janet A. , Hall Cristin M. , Lee David L.
Published: December 2022

Small group social skills training (SST) is recommended to improve the social behavior and peer relations of rejected children, but child responses vary. This study explored variation in intervention experiences that emerged in a large study of a school‐based SST program for peer‐rejected children and associations with program outcomes. One hundred and seven peer‐rejected elementary students (60% White, 15% Black, 22% Latinx, 3% Multi‐racial, and 65% male) were identified by classroom sociometrics and randomly assigned to a year‐long small group SST program. Normative classmates served as partners. Among the peer‐rejected targets of the intervention, those with relatively better pretreatment social skills received more SST sessions and were more positively engaged, whereas those with fewer social skills and more behavior problems experienced more negative peer responses during SST sessions and less collateral support from teachers and parents. Hierarchical regressions (controlling for pretreatment scores) revealed attenuated intervention benefits for children who received more negative peer responses during SST and less parent and teacher support. The findings suggest that, within a sample of peer‐rejected children, those with more severe skill deficits and elevated behavior problems at pretreatment have lower‐quality SST experiences that reduce intervention benefits, even when normative classmates serve as peer partners. These issues warrant careful attention in future SST intervention design and research.
Unpacking the social‐emotional health of education support professionals during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Naples Lauren H. , Cipriano Christina , Eveleigh Abigail , Stoffers Melissa , Barnes Tia N.
Published: December 2022

This study sought to understand education support professionals' (ESPs) experiences early in the COVID‐19 pandemic, including how they were feeling about their roles in education, strategies they were using to cope with unprecedented times, barriers they encountered toward maintaining SE health at work, and opportunities they identified as critical for creating safe and supportive school environments. This study employed a convergent parallel (QUAN + QUAL) mixed methods research design to capture ESPs' affective experiences and use of social and emotional learning (SEL). Data were collected in partnership with the National Education Association across 4 weeks through a survey including open and closed‐ended questions. A total of 175 participants responded to the quantitative portion of the survey and at least one qualitative survey question. Findings suggest ESPs were feeling frustrated and experiencing very little SEL support in their daily work. ESPs would benefit from increased communication, inclusion, recognition, and well‐being promotion in their schools. This study offers new insight into how schools and districts can provide better SEL support to ESPs.
Bubble CPAP respiratory support devices for infants in low‐resource settings
Authors: Poletto Sofia , Trevisanuto Daniele , Ramaswamy Viraraghavan V. , Seni Amir Hussein Abubacar , Ouedraogo Paul , Dellacà Raffaele L. , Zannin Emanuela
Published: December 2022

Approximately 46% of the 5.2 million annual under‐5 deaths derive from neonatal conditions commonly associated with hypoxemia or acute respiratory distress. It has been estimated that 98% of these deaths occur in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Effective implementation of noninvasive respiratory support at all levels of healthcare could significantly reduce neonatal mortality. Several factors limit the widespread and effective implementation of noninvasive respiratory support in LMICs, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of proper instrumentation, shortage of skilled staff, costly disposables, and difficulties in the supply of consumables and spare parts. The aim of this state‐of‐the‐art paper is to provide a detailed evaluation of the commercially available devices providing noninvasive respiratory support in LMICs, focusing on bubblecontinuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP). bCPAP might be administrated using a variety of different commercial devices, including devices specifically designed for LMICs, as well as using self‐made systems. We described all the equipment required for safe and effective implementation of bCPAP, including air and oxygen sourced, pressure‐reducing valves and flowmeters, air‐oxygen blending systems, humidifiers, respiratory support devices, patient circuits, and airway interfaces. Specifically, we critically evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of various existing solutions within the context of low‐resource settings.
A survey assessing the impact of COVID‐19 and elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ifavacaftor on both physical and mental health in adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Sakon Colleen , Vogt Hilary , Brown Cynthia D. , Tillman Emma M.
Published: December 2022

In this letter to the editor, we report 82 persons with CF (PwCF) self‐reported changes in mental and physical health and potential attribution with either the COVID‐19 pandemic and the initiation elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI). Emerging evidence has shown an association with ETI and mental health adverse events. The close proximity of ETI FDA approval and prescribing in PwCF and the COVID‐19 pandemic present a challenge in determining the cause of mental health decline. We report 33 (40%) of respondents felt that COVID‐19 contributed to a worsening of either their anxiety, depression, or both and 7 (9%) of respondents felt that ETI contributed to a worsening in their anxiety, depression, or both. Eighteen (23%) of respondents felt that ETI had contributed to improvement their mental health. This letter highlights multiple factors that could be impacting mental health beyond ETI. As the COVID‐19 pandemic is moving toward an endemic phase, future studies may have more success in deciphering ETI effects on mental health.
Graph identification of proteins in tomograms (GRIP‐Tomo)
Authors: George August , Kim Doo Nam , Moser Trevor , Gildea Ian T. , Evans James E. , Cheung Margaret S.
Published: December 2022

In this study, we present a method of pattern mining based on network theory that enables the identification of protein structures or complexes from synthetic volume densities, without the knowledge of predefined templates or human biases for refinement. We hypothesized that the topological connectivity of protein structures is invariant, and they are distinctive for the purpose of protein identification from distorted data presented in volume densities. Three‐dimensional densities of a protein or a complex from simulated tomographic volumes were transformed into mathematical graphs as observables. We systematically introduced data distortion or defects such as missing fullness of data, the tumbling effect, and the missing wedge effect into the simulated volumes, and varied the distance cutoffs in pixels to capture the varying connectivity between the density cluster centroids in the presence of defects. A similarity score between the graphs from the simulated volumes and the graphs transformed from the physical protein structures in point data was calculated by comparing their network theory order parameters including node degrees, betweenness centrality, and graph densities. By capturing the essential topological features defining the heterogeneous morphologies of a network, we were able to accurately identify proteins and homo‐multimeric complexes from 10 topologically distinctive samples without realistic noise added. Our approach empowers future developments of tomogram processing by providing pattern mining with interpretability, to enable the classification of single‐domain protein native topologies as well as distinct single‐domain proteins from multimeric complexes within noisy volumes.
On the plasticity of amyloid formation: The impact of destabilizing small to large substitutions on islet amyloid polypeptide amyloid formation
Authors: Manathunga Lakshan , Akter Rehana , Zhyvoloup Alexander , Simmerling Carlos , Raleigh Daniel P.
Published: December 2022

Amyloids are partially ordered, proteinaceous, β‐sheet rich deposits that have been implicated in a wide range of diseases. An even larger set of proteins that do not normally form amyloid in vivo can be induced to do so in vitro. A growing number of structures of amyloid fibrils have been reported and a common feature is the presence of a tightly packed core region in which adjacent monomers pack together in extremely tight interfaces, often referred to as steric zippers. A second common feature of many amyloid fibrils is their polymorphous nature. We examine the consequences of disrupting the tight packing in amyloid fibrils on the kinetics of their formation using the 37 residue polypeptide hormone islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP, amylin) as a model system. IAPP forms islet amyloid in vivo and is aggressively amyloidogenic in vitro. Six Cryo‐EM structures of IAPP amyloid fibrils are available and in all Gly24 is in the core of the structured region and makes tight contacts with other residues. Calculations using the ff14SBonlysc forcefield in Amber20 show that substitutions with larger amino acids significantly disrupt close packing and are predicted to destabilize the various fibril structures. However, Gly to 2‐amino butyric acid (2‐carbon side chain) and Gly to Leu substitutions actually enhance the rate of amyloid formation. A Pro substitution slows, but does not prevent amyloid formation.
Nocturnal tidal barrier management improves glass eel migration in times of drought and salinization risk
Authors: Van Wichelen Jeroen , Buysse David , Verhelst Pieterjan , Belpaire Claude , Goegebeur Maarten , Vlietinck Kristof , Coeck Johan
Published: December 2022

Adjusted tidal barrier management (ATBM, setting tidal doors ajar during tidal rise) is currently applied in Belgium to improve glass eel passage through tidal gates. However, salt intrusion in the receiving waters due to upwelling and accumulation of saline groundwater as a result of intensive drought put severe pressure on the unrestrained use of this cost‐efficient mitigation measure. We evaluated the efficacy of a very restricted ATBM at a tidal barrier on a small canalized waterway, located 3.5 km from the sea: one out of seven gate doors was left 20 cm ajar for ca. 30 min when the water levels on both sides of the tidal barrier were approximately equal. During 20 inflow events differing in tidal flow (i.e., flood or ebb tide) and daytime (i.e., day or night) in March/April 2019, migrating glass eels were caught with a fyke net fixed on the temporally opened gate. In total, 12,853 glass eels were captured, almost all during flood tides at night (96%), with a maximum catch of 3,827 individuals per inflow event. These results show that even small windows of opportunity can help glass eels pass tidal barriers.
Nickel‐mediated Ortho C(sp2)−H Alkoxylation of Amides
Authors: Xu Peng , Tang Ying‐Ying , Chen Yi‐Tian , Bai Ji‐Rong , Zhou Pin , Wang Ling‐ling , Sun Xiao‐Nan , Zhou Quan‐Fa
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we described nickel‐mediated C(sp2)−H alkoxylation of amide directed by the bidentate auxiliary directing group. The method was proved efficiently to achieve alkoxide derivatives by available alcohol as substrate. We verified the protocol exhibited good yields, which showed great functional group compatibility and broad‐range substrate.
Green Synthesis of Dihydropyrimido[4,5‐b]quinolinetriones by Sulfonic Acid‐Functionalized Silica‐Coated CoFe2O4 as a Solid Acid Nanocatalyst under Thermal and Ultrasonic Conditions
Authors: Mahdipour Pegah , Moradi Leila , Mirzaie Mahdi
Published: December 2022

Sulfonic acid functionalized silica coated cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (CoFe2O4/SiO2−SO3H) was prepared as an efficient solid acid catalyst for the green synthesis of dihydropyrimido[4,5‐b]quinolinetrione derivatives. CoFe2O4 NPs were prepared by co‐precipitation method and then the silica‐coated CoFe2O4 NPs were modified with chlorosulfonic acid. Obtained CoFe2O4/SiO2−SO3H was characterized by thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and vibrating‐sample magnetometer (VSM). The magnetically separable CoFe2O4/SiO2−SO3H was successfully used for the four component reaction of barbituric acid, dimedone, amines (or ammonium acetate) and benzaldehyde derivatives for the synthesis of dihydropyrimido[4,5‐b]quinolinetriones under thermal and ultrasound conditions. The advantages of presented simple protocol are the easily separation of magnetic catalyst from the reaction medium by an external magnet, short reaction times, green reaction conditions in addition to simple workup and high yield of products.