bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation in patients with heart failure with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Chen Chaofeng , Cheng Kuan , Gao Xiaofei , Zou Tian , Pang Yang , Ling Yunlong , Xu Ye , Xu Yizhou , Chen Qingxing , Zhu Wenqing , Ge Junbo
Published: November 2022

Aims

Limited data are available on the outcomes of cryoballoon ablation (CBA)‐based pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF). The present study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of CBA in such patients.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients with AF referred for CBA‐based PVI from two highly experienced electrophysiology centres were included in this retrospective study. Of 651 patients undergoing CBA, 471 cases were divided into four groups: No HF (n = 255), HFpEF (n = 101), HFmrEF (n = 78), and HF with reduced ejection fraction (n = 37). Similar early recurrence of atrial arrhythmia was found among groups (16.2% vs. 15.4% vs. 14.9% vs. 12.2%, P = 0.798), and no significant difference of long‐term sinus rhythm (SR) maintenance was identified among the HFmrEF, HFpEF, and No HF groups (71.8% vs. 75.2% vs. 79.6%, P = 0.334). CBA is safe for patients with HFmrEF and HFpEF with similar complications compared with the No HF group (3.8% vs. 4.0% vs. 3.1%, P = 0.814). The reassessment of cardiac function after CBA showed that patients with HF indicated beneficial outcomes. Left atrial diameter (LAD) and left ventricular ejection fraction were significantly improved in the HFmrEF group. There were 41.6% of patients in the HFpEF group who were completely relieved from HF. LAD and New York Heart Association (NYHA) were associated with recurrence in the HFpEF and HFmrEF groups, and the maintenance of SR was an independent predictor of NYHA improvement for all HF groups.

Conclusions

Patients with HFmrEF and HFpEF could benefit from CBA with high SR maintenance and significant HF improvement.
Weight change and clinical outcomes in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: insights from EMPEROR‐Reduced
Authors: Anker Stefan D. , Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Butler Javed , Ofstad Anne Pernille , Peil Barbara , Pfarr Egon , Doehner Wolfram , Sattar Naveed , Coats Andrew J. S. , Filippatos Gerasimos , Ferreira João Pedro , Zannad Faiez , Pocock Stuart , Packer Milton
Published: November 2022

Aims

Baseline body mass index (BMI) and weight loss promoted by sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors may impact outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We assessed in the EMPEROR‐Reduced population treated with empagliflozin versus placebo the relationship between baseline BMI, weight loss and effects on the primary (time to first hospitalization for heart failure [HHF] or cardiovascular death) and key secondary outcomes.

Methods and results

We categorized patients according to their baseline BMI: <20 kg/m2 (n = 180); 20 to <25 kg/m2 (n = 1038); 25 to <30 kg/m2 (n = 1345); 30 to <35 kg/m2 (n = 774) and ≥35 kg/m2 (n = 393). The treatment effect of empagliflozin on the primary outcome was consistent across all BMI categories (hazard ratios in subgroups 0.66–0.88, interaction trend p = 0.32), as was the effect on total (first plus recurrent) HHF (interaction trend p = 0.31). Empagliflozin reduced the rate of estimated glomerular filtration rate decline consistently across the BMI categories (interaction trend p = 0.67). Overall, incidence rates of any or serious adverse events were comparable between the treatment groups across all BMI categories. A total of 313 (17.4%) patients treated with empagliflozin experienced a weight loss of more than 5% at week 52 versus 230 (12.8%) in placebo. When analysed separately within each treatment group, presence of weight loss was similarly associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality.

Conclusion

The benefits of empagliflozin versus placebo were consistently present across all BMI categories in HFrEF patients. Weight loss was associated with higher risk of all‐cause mortality, regardless of treatment group.
C‐H Activation of 2‐Arylbenzoxazinones in Aqueous Medium: Synthesis of Fused Isoindolinones Using a Heterogeneous Magnetic Pd‐Catalyst
Authors: Patra Debabrata , Saha Amit
Published: November 2022

We have developed a C−H activation protocol of 2‐arylbenzoxazinones in aqueous medium under open aerial atmosphere at close to room temperature (40 °C) using magnetic Pd‐catalyst. 2‐Arylbenzoxazinones react with phenylglyoxylic acidsviadecarboxylative C−H acylation followed by cyclization reaction to produce the isoindolinone compounds. The reaction can be arrested at the intermediate step to obtain theortho‐acylated derivative at a certain lower temperature. The heterogeneous Pd‐catalyst is easy to separate magnetically and shows good recyclability.
Five Triisopropylsilyl Substituents in Ara‐β‐(1→2)‐Ara Disaccharide Glycosyl Donor Make Unselective Glycosylation Reaction Stereoselective
Authors: Abronina Polina I. , Malysheva Nelly N. , Stepanova Elena V. , Shvyrkina Julia S. , Zinin Alexander I. , Kononov Leonid O.
Published: November 2022

Formation of 1,2‐trans‐arabinofuranoside linkage in arabinans fromMycobacterium tuberculosisusing differently protected Ara‐β‐(1→2)‐Ara disaccharide glycosyl donors in the absence of a participating group at O‐2 was studied. The influence of the nature of the protective and leaving groups in glycosyl donors on the efficiency and stereoselectivity of the 1,2‐trans‐arabinofuranosylation was investigated. The efficiency of Ara‐β‐(1→2)‐Arap‐tolyl thioglycoside containing five triisopropylsilyl groups in 1,2‐trans‐stereoselective synthesis of a protected tetrasaccharide corresponding to a fragment of theM. tuberculosisarabinan was shown for the first time. On the contrary, the use of glycosyl donors based on Ara‐β‐(1→2)‐Ara containing only benzoyl or both silyl and benzoyl groups led to the loss of stereocontrol.
Recent Advances in Ni‐Based Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Hu Cun , Lv Chao , Zeng Ning , Liu Aojie , Liu Yanan , Hu Li , Li Peilong , Yao Yong , Cai Jinguang , Tang Tao
Published: November 2022

Electrochemical water splitting driven by the electricity generated from renewable energy is an ideal sustainable approach for hydrogen production, where an efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalyst is indispensable. Ni‐based electrocatalysts are widely investigated for HER in different electrolytes due to their advantages of high Earth abundance, remarkable corrosion resistance, efficient electrocatalytic performance, and high electrical conductivity. Although several Ni‐based electrocatalysts exhibit catalytic HER performance comparable to that of state‐of‐the‐art Pt catalysts, it is still lack of practical applications possibly due to the duration limitation. In order to promote the next‐step intensive studies and applications, it is important to systematically summarize the progress of Ni‐based electrocatalysts for HER. Accordingly, this review article focuses on the recent advances in Ni‐based electrocatalysts toward HER, which includes the mechanism of the electrocatalytic HER in different electrolytes and progresses in the Ni‐based electrocatalysts toward HER. The preparation approaches, electrocatalytic activities, and overall performance comparison of the Ni‐based electrocatalysts are systemically summarized based on Ni‐based compounds, that is, phosphides, chalcogenides, nitrides, carbides, borides, alloys, and (hydro)oxides. The improvement modulation strategies including morphological/phase control, heterostructures/heterointerfaces, defect engineering, composite engineering, and heteroatom doping are thoroughly discussed. Finally, corresponding challenges and perspectives are proposed.
Enhanced Supercapacitive Properties of Mixed Oxide Nanotubes Grown by Anodization of Ti–Fe Alloys
Authors: Liu Rui , Jiang Longfei , Li Chengyuan , Li Pengze , Zhang Yu , Zhu Xufei , Song Ye
Published: November 2022

Like titanium metal, nanotube array films can be grown on Ti alloys by anodization in fluoride‐containing electrolytes. Further, the anodization of Ti alloys provide a unique pathway to dope TiO2 nanotubes with the alloying element. However, the details of anodization behaviors of Ti alloys and the obtained nanotubes for application in supercapacitors remain poorly understood. Herein, three Ti–Fe alloys containing different amounts of Fe element (10, 15, and 20 wt%) are fabricated by using a vacuum arc melting furnace. Their anodization behaviors are systematically investigated. The nanotube array films can be achieved on these alloys, which are composed of TiO2, Fe2O3, and Fe‐doped TiO2. Their electrochemical behaviors are completely different from both the pure TiO2 and the pure Fe2O3. The mixed oxide nanotubes on Ti–15 wt%Fe have the maximum capacitance among the three Ti–Fe alloys, which is 3.75 times higher than that of pure TiO2. Moreover, the mixed oxide electrode exhibits high rate capability and excellent cycling stability with only 5.7% loss in capacitance over 10 000 cycles. The presented results suggest that the alloy anodization is an efficient strategy for enhancing the performance of TiO2 electrode materials for supercapacitors.
Highly Efficient Nonfullerene Organic Solar Cells with Nickel Oxide Hole‐Transporting Layer: Using Dipole‐Induced Energy‐Level Modification
Authors: Park Sungjin , Kim Dong Won , Park Soo Young
Published: November 2022

To date, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is the most commonly used hole‐transporting material (HTM) for nonfullerene acceptor (NFA) organic solar cell (OSCs) due to its high hole conductivity and reproducibility. However, considering the significant breakthroughs made by novel donor and NFA combinations such as PM6 and Y6, the development of HTMs which can outperform PEDOT:PSS is very limited. Here, for the first time, high‐performance NFA OSCs based on simple and solution‐processed nickel oxide HTMs with high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability are reported. Two different kinds of hydroquinone sulfonic acid (HSA) salts, which have a permanent dipole moment, are added to NiO solution. Due to the interfacial dipole moment generated by these salts and effective work function modulation of NiO, efficient hole transportation at the interface between hole‐transporting layer and bulk heterojunction (BHJ) layer by minimizing the energetic barrier is promoted. As a result, using PM6 and the Y6‐BO‐4F‐based BHJ layer, the PCE of 14.19% with very high open‐circuit voltage of 0.86 V is achieved, which is comparable with that of PEDOT:PSS‐based OSCs. For 1200 h under ambient atmosphere, OSCs based on NiO containing HSA salts demonstrate enhanced ambient stability compared to that of PEDOT:PSS.
Entropy optimization analysis of Marangoni convective flow over a rotating disk moving vertically with an inclined magnetic field and nonuniform heat source
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Sharma Kushal
Published: November 2022

The present study investigates the Marangoni convective fluid flow over a rotating disk with an inclined magnetic field and in the presence of a nonuniform heat source when the disk moves upward/downward with nonconstant velocity with the incorporation of the second law of thermodynamics. The Keller‐box method is applied to the reduced system of equations to draw graphical illustrations. The study of these illustrations to examine the effects of involved pertinent parameters, like, magnetic field, Marangoni number, angle of inclination, vertical disk movement parameter, heat source, and disk rotation, on velocity and temperature profiles, reveals some interesting findings. From the analysis, it can be concluded that the skin friction coefficient increases with more angle of inclination and the Marangoni number with the reverse trend in case of vertical disk movement. Also, the Marangoni number and vertical disk motion diminish the Nusselt number with a positive effect in the case of more angle of inclination. The rate of entropy generation is enhanced with the temperature ratio parameter while it diminishes with the inclined magnetic field of any strength. The current study in its reduced form is in excellent agreement with earlier published work to ensure the validity of the used numerical scheme.
Intra‐amniotic umbilical vein varix: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Nasser Basel H. , Hamid Daher , Zakharian Yacoub , Jadaon Jimmy E.
Published: November 2022

Synopsis

An umbilical vein varix is a rare fetal condition and is defined as a focal dilatation of the umbilical vein.
Intragroup contact with other mothers living in the same neighborhood benefits mothers' life satisfaction: The mediating role of group identification and social support
Authors: Seppälä Tuija , Riikonen Reetta , Stevenson Clifford , Paajanen Paula , Repo Katja , Finell Eerika
Published: November 2022

Becoming a mother is often accompanied by a loss of social connections, which can reduce the availability of social support. This can increase maternal stress with negative health outcomes. Therefore, we examined how mothers' social contact with other mothers living in the same neighborhood can form a compensative source of social support and wellbeing. Data was collected from mothers (N = 443) of a child under school age while visiting the public maternity and child health clinics located in two neighborhoods in Helsinki, Finland. We found that mothers' frequent and positive contact with other local mothers was positively related with their life satisfaction through identification‐based social support. Contact also had a specific indirect effect on life satisfaction through social support. Frequent positive contact with other local mothers can serve to scaffold the emergence of social identification, which in turn unlocks further social support with positive health effects.
Prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome and functional abdominal pain disorders in children with inflammatory bowel disease in remission
Authors: Limbri Lydia F , Wilson Thomas G , Oliver Mark R
Published: November 2022

Despite evidence of an increased prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) compared with the general population, the prevalence of IBS in children with IBD is unclear. In this review, we aimed to identify the reported prevalence of IBS or functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) in children with IBD in remission. A search of three databases (MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed) was performed to identify studies reporting the prevalence of IBS or FAPDs in pediatric patients with IBD in remission. A total of 60 studies were identified, with four eligible studies remaining following abstract screening. In children with IBD in remission, the overall prevalence of IBS ranged between 3.9 and 16.1%, and the overall prevalence of FAPDs ranged between 9.6 and 29.5%. The prevalence of FAPDs in patients in biomarker‐based remission was generally higher than those in clinical remission (range 16–22.5% vs 9.6–16.7%, respectively). There is a paucity of literature reporting on the prevalence of IBS or FAPDs in children with IBD in remission. Despite the differences in criteria used to define IBD remission in the included articles, there seems to be an increased overall prevalence of IBS or FAPDs in children with IBD.
Evidence of An Association Between Cerebral Blood Flow and Microstructural Integrity in Normative Aging Using a Holistic MRI Approach
Authors: Kiely Matthew , Triebswetter Curtis , Gong Zhaoyuan , Laporte John P. , Faulkner Mary E. , Akhonda Mohammad A. B. S. , Alsameen Maryam H. , Spencer Richard G. , Bouhrara Mustapha
Published: November 2022

Background

Cerebral tissue integrity decline and cerebral blood flow (CBF) alteration are major aspects of motor and cognitive dysfunctions and neurodegeneration. However, little is known about the association between blood flow and brain microstructural integrity, especially in normal aging.

Purpose

To assess the association between CBF and cerebral microstructural integrity.

Study Type

Cross sectional.

Population

A total of 94 cognitively unimpaired adults (mean age 50.7 years, age range between 22 and 88 years, 56 Men).

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3 T; pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling (pCASL), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), Bayesian Monte Carlo analysis of multicomponent driven equilibrium steady‐state observation of T1 and T2 (BMC‐mcDESPOT).

Assessment

Lobar associations between CBF derived from pCASL, and longitudinal relaxation rate (R1), transverse relaxation rate (R2) and myelin water fraction (MWF) derived from BMC‐mcDESPOT, or radial diffusivity (RD), axial diffusivity (AxD), mean diffusivity (MD) and fractional anisotropy (FA) derived from DTI were assessed.

Statistical Tests

Multiple linear regression models were used using the mean region of interest (ROI) values for MWF, R1, R2, FA, MD, RD, or AxD as the dependent variable and CBF, age, age2, and sex as the independent variables. A two‐sided P value of <0.05 defined statistical significance.

Results

R1, R2, MWF, FA, MD, RD, and AxD parameters were associated with CBF in most of the cerebral regions evaluated. Specifically, higher CBF values were significantly associated with higher FA, MWF, R1 and R2, or lower MD, RD and AxD values.

Data Conclusion

These findings suggest that cerebral tissue microstructure may be impacted by global brain perfusion, adding further evidence to the intimate relationship between cerebral blood supply and cerebral tissue integrity.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 4
Postexposure‐vaccine‐prophylaxis against COVID‐19
Authors: Shmuelian Zohar , Warszawer Yehuda , Or Omri , Arbel‐Alon Sagit , Giladi Hilla , Avgil Tsadok Meytal , Cohen Roy , Shefer Galit , Shlomi Dekel , Hoshen Moshe , Maruotti Antonello , Jona‐Lasinio Giovanna , Galun Eithan
Published: November 2022

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, postexposure‐vaccine‐prophylaxis is not a practice. Following exposure, only patient isolation is imposed. Moreover, no therapeutic prevention approach is applied. We asked whether evidence exists for reduced mortality rate following postexposure‐vaccine‐prophylaxis. To estimate the effectiveness of postexposure‐vaccine‐prophylaxis, we obtained data from the Israeli Ministry of Health registry. The study population consisted of Israeli residents aged 12 years and older, identified for the first time as PCR‐positive for SARS‐CoV‐2, between December 20th, 2020 (the beginning of the vaccination campaign) and October 7th, 2021. We compared “recently injected” patients—that proved PCR‐positive on the same day or on 1 of the 5 consecutive days after first vaccination (representing an unintended postexposure‐vaccine‐prophylaxis)s—to unvaccinated control group. Among Israeli residents identified PCR‐positive for SARS‐CoV‐2, 11 687 were found positive on the day they received their first vaccine injection (BNT162b2) or on 1 of the 5 days thereafter. In patients over 65 years, 143 deaths occurred among 1412 recently injected (10.13%) compared to 255 deaths among the 1412 unvaccinated (18.06%), odd ratio (OR) 0.51 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41–0.64; p < 0.001). A significant reduction in the death toll was observed among the 55–64 age group, with 8 deaths occurring among the 1320 recently injected (0.61%) compared to 24 deaths among the 1320 unvaccinated control (1.82%), OR 0.33 (95% CI: 0.13–0.76; p = 0.007). Postexposure‐vaccine‐prophylaxis is effective against death in COVID‐19 infection.
A procedure for determining the number and pattern of digestible starch fractions in multiphasic food digestograms
Authors: Li Cheng , Li Songnan
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Plant‐based foods are frequently heterogenous systems, containing multiple starch fractions with distinct digestion rate constants. An unbiased determination of the number and digestion pattern of these fractions is a prerequisite for understanding the digestive characteristics of food.

RESULTS

A non‐linear least‐squares procedure based on a conditional selection of simple first‐order kinetics or a combination of parallel and sequential kinetics models was developed. The procedure gave robust results fitting manually generated data, and was applied to in vitro experimental digestion data of retrograded rice starches. By correlating fitting parameters with starch structural parameters, it showed that rice starches with a lower amylose content, longer amylose chains, and amylopectin intermediate chains had more digestible starch fractions after long‐term retrogradation.

CONCLUSION

This procedure enables the structural basis of starch digestibility and the development of food products with slow starch digestibility to be better understood. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
CircBFAR correlates with poor prognosis and promotes laryngeal squamous cell cancer progression through miR‐31‐5p/COL5A1 axis
Authors: Gong Hengcui , Wu Wei , Fang Chuankai , He Di
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC) is a highly malignant tumor originating from the respiratory system. Circular RNAs have been reported to be associated with the treatment and prognosis of a variety of cancers, including LSCC.

Methods

The expression of circBFAR, miR‐31‐5p, and collagen type V alpha 1 chain (COL5A1) in LSCC tissues and cells was detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Cell counting kit 8 and 5‐Ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine assays were used to detect cell proliferation. Wound healing assay and transwell assay were used to test cell migration and invasion, respectively. The protein expression in LSCC cells was detected with western blot. The relationships between miR‐31‐5p and circBFAR or COL5A1 were identified by dual‐luciferase reporter assay, RNA‐pull down assay, and immunoprecipitation assay. The effect of circBFAR on tumor growth in vivo was detected by tumor xenograft mice experiment. The protein expression of COL5A1 and KI‐67 in LSCC tissues was measured by immunohistochemistry assay.

Results

CircBFAR was increased in LSCC tissues and cells, and was related to advanced clinical stage and overall survival of LSCC patients. The cell viability and proliferation were inhibited by circBFAR knockdown and silencing of circBFAR blocked migration and invasion of LSCC cells. CircBFAR knockdown suppressed cell tube formation, and the protein expression of KI‐67, matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) in LSCC cells. MiR‐31‐5p was the target of circBFAR, and the inhibitory effects of circBFAR deficiency on viability, proliferation, migration, invasion, tube formation and the protein expression of KI‐67, MMP2, and VEGFA in LSCC cells were rescued by miR‐31‐5p downregulation. COL5A1 was negatively regulated by miR‐31‐5p, and was boosted in LSCC tissues and cells. COL5A1 overexpression reversed the inhibitory effects of miR‐31‐5p on LSCC cells. CircBFAR insufficiency hindered tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

CircBFAR, miR‐31‐5p, and COL5A1 in LSCC progression might provide novel therapeutic targets for LSCC clinical intervention.
Comparison of one‐step with two‐step production of Bacillus atrophaeus spores for use as bioindicators
Authors: Stier Philipp , Kulozik Ulrich
Published: November 2022

The production method of spores significantly influences the resistance of spores used as bioindicators (BI) in the validation of sterilization of packaging material surfaces in aseptic food manufacturing. Therefore, the standardization of the spore production method represents an important and desirable goal in industrial BI production to ensure reliable validation test results. Previously, we recommended a two‐step production approach for submerged spore production, in which the cultivation phase to obtain high cell mass was separate from the sporulation phase. In this work, a one‐step manufacturing process was investigated to reduce production complexity and facilitate standardization of spore production. It was found that one‐step BI production is technically possible but at the expense of spore yield. The two‐step manufacturing process can realize almost 10‐fold higher spore yields.
A correlated sampling‐based Monte Carlo simulation for fast CBCT iterative scatter correction
Authors: Qin Peishan , Lin Guoqin , Li Xu , Piao Zun , Huang Shuang , Wu WangJiang , Qi Mengke , Ma Jianhui , Zhou Linghong , Xu Yuan
Published: November 2022

Background

In recent years, cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) has played an important role in medical imaging. However, the applications of CBCT are limited due to the severe scatter contamination. Conventional Monte Carlo (MC) simulation can provide accurate scatter estimation for scatter correction, but the expensive computational cost has always been the bottleneck of MC method in clinical application.

Purpose

In this work, an MC simulation method combined with a variance reduction technique called correlated sampling is proposed for fast iterative scatter correction.

Methods

Correlated sampling exploits correlation between similar simulation systems to reduce the variance of interest quantities. Specifically, conventional MC simulation is first performed on the scatter‐contaminated CBCT to generate the initial scatter signal. In the subsequent correction iterations, scatter estimation is then updated by applying correlated MC sampling to the latest corrected CBCT images by reusing the random number sequences of the task‐related photons in conventional MC. Afterward, the corrected projections obtained by subtracting the scatter estimation from raw projections are utilized for FDK reconstruction. These steps are repeated until an adequate scatter correction is obtained. The performance of the proposed framework is evaluated by the accuracy of the scatter estimation, the quality of corrected CBCT images and efficiency.

Results

Overall, the difference in mean absolute percentage error between scatter estimation with and without correlated sampling is 0.25% for full‐fan case and 0.34% for half‐fan case, respectively. In simulation studies, scatter artifacts are substantially eliminated, where the mean absolute error value is reduced from 15 to 2 HU in full‐fan case and from 53 to 13 HU in half‐fan case. Scatter‐to‐primary ratio is reduced to 0.02 for full‐fan and 0.04 for half‐fan, respectively. In phantom study, the contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) is increased by a factor of 1.63, and the contrast is increased by a factor of 1.77. As for clinical studies, the CNR is improved by 11% and 14% for half‐fan and full‐fan, respectively. The contrast after correction is increased by 19% for half‐fan and 44% for full‐fan. Furthermore, root mean square error is also effectively reduced, especially from 78 to 4 HU for full‐fan. Experimental results demonstrate that the figure of merit is improved between 23 and 43 folds when using correlated sampling. The proposed method takes less than 25 s for the whole iterative scatter correction process.

Conclusions

The proposed correlated sampling‐based MC simulation method can achieve fast and accurate scatter correction for CBCT, making it suitable for real‐time clinical use.
An anisotropic plastic‐damage model for 3D nonlinear simulation of masonry structures
Authors: Chisari Corrado , Macorini Lorenzo , Izzuddin Bassam A.
Published: November 2022

Predicting the structural response of masonry structures with acceptable accuracy is paramount to safeguard the historical heritage and build new constructions with safety margins adequate to modern standards. However, due to the heterogeneous nature and anisotropic response of masonry, such prediction is still difficult to achieve, where most current masonry representations are based upon homogeneous isotropic material models or even more simplified masonry macro‐elements. In this article, a novel anisotropic constitutive model to be used in detailed 3D continuum FE representations is described. This is based upon the application of the transformed‐tensor method to an isotropic uncoupled plastic‐damage model, which is further enhanced by additional novel features enabling the proper definition of the shear behavior both in terms of yielding surface and damage evolution while increasing local computational robustness. Illustrative examples at different scales are presented, highlighting the characteristics and potential of the developed masonry material model. Focus is placed on the mechanical behavior under uniaxial and biaxial stress states considering pure compression on wallets with varying inclination of the material principal axes and the out‐of‐plane response of wall components. The numerical results confirm the ability of the proposed constitutive model to predict typical masonry anisotropic response characteristics, which cannot be accurately represented by standard isotropic representations commonly used in professional practice and research.
Fracture modeling by the eigenfracture approach for the implicit material point method framework
Authors: Chihadeh Ahmad , Storm Johannes , Kaliske Michael
Published: November 2022

The material point method (MPM) is efficiently applied for the simulation of structures undergoing large deformations where fracture and crack initiation are expected. The eigenfracture approach is introduced in the paper at hand for the implicit MPM to model crack development and propagation in static and dynamic fracture of brittle elastic materials. Eigenfracture is an energetic fracture formulation applied in the postprocessing step of the implicit MPM, making its implementation relatively straightforward. Furthermore, the driving energy used to check crack propagation is evaluated using the representative crack elements (RCE), by which the crack is modeled as a discrete phenomenon. The RCE approach shows more realistic results compared to other split models. Additionally, the fracture description of reinforced materials within the MPM is also presented in this article by coupling truss finite elements to the MPM, considering the bond stress‐slip constitutive model. Two‐ and three‐dimensional problems in static and dynamic applications are presented to assess the efficacy of the approach.
Clinical response to lifestyle counseling for dyslipidemia and elevated blood pressure in childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Javalkar Karina , Huang Yisong , Lyon Shannon M. , Palfrey Hannah , Hartz Jacob , Chen Ming Hui , de Ferranti Sarah
Published: November 2022

Background

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) have increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease. Whether they respond similarly to lifestyle changes for elevated blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI), and dyslipidemia to those without history of childhood cancer is unknown.

Procedure

This retrospective cohort study included CCS and 3:1 age‐ and sex‐matched controls treated at Boston Children's Hospital Preventive Cardiology (2010–2019) using lifestyle management based on National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) guidelines. Change in BMI, BP, and lipids were analyzed.

Results

We included 52 CCS and 162 controls with a median age of approximately 16 years. More CCS (84.3%) had elevated baseline fasting triglycerides (TG) than controls (49.4%) (p < .001). More CCS (62.5%) also had abnormal baseline high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) compared to controls (35.2%) (p = .001). Baseline BMI, BP, total cholesterol (TC), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) were similar between groups. Over 15 weeks [IQR: 10.5–26], CCS had greater decrease in TG than controls (72.5 vs. 17 mg/dl decrease, p = .095). BP improved in 5% of CCS versus 38% of controls (p = .008). For both, BMI, TC, LDL‐C, and HDL‐C remained stable. CCS with stem cell transplantation (SCT) had a TC increase of 5% (6 mg/dl) compared to a decrease of 9% (19 mg/dl) among CCS without SCT (p = .02).

Conclusions

CCS demonstrated similar improvement in lipids, but impaired BP lowering in response to lifestyle management compared to controls. Further prospective studies are needed to determine if earlier pharmaceutical treatment is warranted in this higher risk population and for the long‐term risk reductions of these approaches.
COVID‐19‐associated coagulopathy in children: A multicenter observational cohort study
Authors: Zabeida Alexandra , Winikoff Rochelle , Pelland‐Marcotte Marie‐Claude , Charlebois Janie , Sabapathy Christine
Published: November 2022

SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID‐19]) induces a stark procoagulant state, with many hospitalized adults developing thrombosis despite prophylactic anticoagulation. This study aimed to characterize hemostatic parameters and associated clinical outcomes of COVID‐19, such as thrombosis and bleeding, in children and to assess thromboprophylaxis use. This multicenter observational cohort study included 79 patients aged up to 18 years admitted to all pediatric hospitals in Québec, Canada, with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection during a 5‐month period. D‐dimers were elevated in 18/19 patients (94.7%) and fibrinogen in 15/26 patients (60%). Eleven patients (13.9%) received anticoagulant thromboprophylaxis. One thrombotic event and one major bleed were observed.
Updates in idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis in 2022: A state of the art review
Authors: Saha Biplab K. , Aiman Alexis , Chong Woon Hean , Saha Santu , Song Jini , Bonnier Alyssa
Published: November 2022

This manuscript reports the recent advances in idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis (IPH), a rare cause of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in children and adults. This narrative review of the literature summarizes different aspects of IPH, including proposed pathogenesis, patient demographics, clinical and radiological characteristics, treatment, and prognosis. Additionally, the association between Celiac Disease (CD) and IPH is carefully evaluated. IPH is a frequently misdiagnosed disease. The delay in the diagnosis of IPH is often significant but fortunately, appears to have decreased in recent years. IPH in adults and children have distinct demographic preferences. The autoantibodies are common in IPH but with a definite difference between the adult and pediatric populations. The definitive diagnosis of IPH requires lung biopsy and careful exclusion of all competing diagnoses, even with lung biopsy showing bland pulmonary hemorrhage. The presence of nonspecific inflammatory cells or lymphoid aggregates may suggest a secondary immunologic phenomenon and needs careful evaluation and follow‐up. A substantial number of patients suffer from coexisting CD, also known as Lane−Hamilton syndrome (LHS), and all patients with IPH need to be evaluated for LHS by serology. Although strict gluten free diet can manage the majority of patients with LHS, other patients generally require immunosuppressive therapy. The corticosteroids are the backbone of IPH therapy. Recently utilized experimental treatment options include mesenchymal stem cell transplant, liposteroid and bronchial artery embolization. The immunosuppression should be adjusted to achieve optimal disease control. Patients may progress to end‐stage lung disease despite all measures, and lung transplantation may be the only viable option.
Imidacloprid‐resistant Aphis gossypii populations are more common in cotton‐dominated landscapes
Authors: Mahas John W. , Steury Todd D. , Huseth Anders S. , Rogers Stephanie R , Jacobson Alana L.
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Widespread reports of reduced efficacy of imidacloprid for managing cotton aphids (Aphis gossypii Glover) in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) prompted an investigation to characterize the susceptibility of 43 populations over a 2‐year period. The susceptibility of A. gossypii populations to imidacloprid was examined by calculating LC50 values. Further analyses related resistance assay results to a gradient of cotton production intensity.

RESULTS

Concentration‐mortality bioassays documencted populations that were 4.26–607.16 times more resistant than the susceptible laboratory population. There was a significant positive relationship between LC50 values and percentage of cotton within 2.5‐ and 5‐km buffers surrounding collection sites. No significant relationship was detected between LC50 values and the percentage of alternative crop and noncrop hosts.

CONCLUSION

Variable and high levels of resistance were detected in A. gossypii populations, and this variation was positively associated with cotton production intensity. Cotton is a host that may receive multiple applications of neonicotinoids (via seed treatment and foliar sprays) annually for seedling and mid‐season pests. Rotating modes of action and limiting insecticide use should be implemented to delay the evolution of insecticide resistance in A. gossypii populations. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
N‐Benzoyl‐4‐dimethylaminopyridinium Chloride: A Lewis Base Adduct for Efficient Poly and Monobenzoylation
Authors: Shekunti Ravi Kumar , Tangalipalli Swathi , Dhonthulachitty Chiranjeevi , Kothakapu Sridhar Reddy , Annapurna Padmavathi Devarakonda , Neella Chandra Kiran
Published: November 2022

N‐benzoyl‐4‐dimethylaminopyridinium chloride [DMAPBz]+Cl− was efficiently employed for polybenzoylation of triols and tetrols without epimerization and elimination products. This Lewis base adduct has also been employed for regioselective monobenzoylation of polyols obtained from D‐pentoses. Further an eco‐friendly monobenzoylation of phenols, amines and alcohols was achieved in water as a solvent without using a base and chromatographic purification of the products. Chemoselective monobenzoylation and recovery of the DMAP is an added advantage of our protocol.
Design, Synthesis, Antimicrobial Screening and Docking Studies of Newer 1,4‐Dihydropyridine tethered Chalcone Hybrids
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Kumar Dhiraj , Upadhyay Ravindra Kumar , Deswal Nidhi , Takkar Priya , Kareem Abdul , Kumar Vinod , Kumar Lalita S
Published: November 2022

The evolution of antimicrobial drug resistance demands the development of more effective therapeutics that are more potent with reduced side effects. In the present study, we reported the design and synthesis of 1,4‐dihydropyridine clubbed with chalcone hybrids in excellent yields. Further, the biological assessment of these 1‐phenyl‐3‐dihydropyridine‐prop‐2‐en‐one chalcone hybrids as antimicrobial agents was accomplished against strains E.coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans (Yeast), Aspergillus niger, Alternaria solani and Fusarium oxysporum by well diffusion method in terms of zone of inhibition (in mm). Some Hybrids displayed the best anti‐microbial activity against all the tested strains. A molecular docking study was performed for the most active compounds and showed the best binding pose with the highest binding score within the active sites of S. aureus DNA gyrase complexed with DNA and Lanosterol 14α‐demethylase. These novel products evolved as promising leads for the future development of more potent anti‐microbial compounds.
Palladium Nanoparticles Entrapped In a Hydrogen Bonded Crystalline Organic Salt Matrix as a Selective Heterogeneous Reduction Catalyst
Authors: Kuznetsova Svetlana A. , Yunusov Safar M. , Gak Alexander S. , Riazanov Vladimir I. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Barker Ryan , North Michael , Zhereb Vladimir P. , Khakina Ekaterina A. , Naumkin Alexander , Lobanov Nikolai N. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Chusov Denis , Kalyuzhnaya Elena S. , Belokon Yuri N.
Published: November 2022

A new class of palladium nanoparticles encapsulated in an organic crystalline salt matrix Pd@F2 (A‐2) was developed. Matrix A‐2 was readily prepared by mixing an aqueous solution of the tetrasodium salt of tetraphenylmethane‐tetrasulfonate and the PdCl4 salt of protonated tetrakis(4‐aminophenyl)under hydrogen in water. Matrix A‐2 contained 17–20 % of palladium and was not pyrophoric. The average size of the palladium metal particles was 7 nm. Matrix A‐2 could be used as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the reduction of acetylene derivatives and had activity similar to that of Pd/C. The catalyst could be recovered and reused several times with just one four‐hundredth of the palladium leaching after the first cycle. The reduction of diphenylacetylene could be selectively stopped at the cis‐stilbene stage after one equivalent of hydrogen was absorbed. The same selective conversion could also be accomplished with terminal acetylenes. Matrix A‐2 reduced aldehyde and epoxide groups very slowly which allowed the selective reduction of the acetylenes in the presence of aldehydes. This behavior contrasts with that of Pd/C which reduces both aldehyde and acetylene groups simultaneously. A model, suggesting the selective imbedding of the aldehyde groups in the organic F2 matrix of A‐2, isolating them from the palladium active sites, explains the observed phenomena.
Ultrasound‐Mediated Synthesis of New (Piperazine‐Chromene)‐Linked Bis(thieno[2,3‐b]pyridine) Hybrids as Potential Anti‐acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Sanad Sherif M. H. , Mekky Ahmed E. M.
Published: November 2022

Using ultrasound irradiation and the eco‐friendly piperazine, two series of (piperazine‐chromene)‐linked bis(thieno[2,3‐b]pyridine) hybrids attached to various arene or chromene units were efficiently prepared. Therefore, the target hybrids were prepared by reacting bis(pyridine‐2(1H)‐thione) with two equivalents of the appropriate α‐haloketones in the presence of 1.4 equivalents of piperazine. The reaction mixture was subjected to ultrasonic irradiations at 60 °C for 20–40 min to produce the desired products in 87–96 % yields. At concentrations of 15 and 25 μM, new hybrids were tested for anti‐acetylcholinesterase activity, as well as their ability to quench DPPH free radicals at a concentration of 25 μg/mL. Generally, the chromene unit attached to thienopyridine‐C2 has a significant effect on the inhibitory activity of the new hybrids. Moreover, the electronic properties of the substituent attached to the chromene‐C6 unit influence the inhibitory activity. The bis(thienopyridine) hybrid attached to 6‐methoxy‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one units demonstrated the best anti‐acetylcholinesterase activity at the previous concentrations, with inhibition percentages of 69.1 and 85.4. Additionally, with an inhibition percentage of 84.4, the previous hybrid demonstrated the most effective anti‐DPPH activity.
Unveiling S‐Scheme Charge Transfer Pathways in In2S3/Nb2O5 Hybrid Nanofiber Photocatalysts for Low‐Concentration CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Wang Kai , Qin Haotian , Shao Xiuli , Jiang Lisha , Li Ke , Wang Juan , Zhou Lina , Cheng Qiang , Wang Guohong , Wang Hukun
Published: November 2022

Unveiling the charge separation and transfer pathways and exploring low‐cost and durable heterojunction photocatalysts are still two key challenges in achieving high‐efficient solar fuel generation from low‐concentration carbon dioxide. Herein, the layered In2S3‐modified Nb2O5 hybrid nanofiber photocatalysts with core–shell structures for efficient low‐concentration CO2 hydrogenation are constructed. The as‐prepared binary S‐scheme photocatalysts show excellent CO generation of 60.36 μmol g−1 h−1, which is 5.6 and 3.8 times higher than that of Nb2O5 and In2S3, which not only exhibits the CO generation in low‐concentration CO2 but also is superior to most photocatalysts without sacrificial agents or cocatalysts. In situ illuminated X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis indicates the S‐scheme charge transfer pathways formed due to the unmatched Fermi level, creating an internal electric field at the core/shell interface, driving the separation of the photoexcited charge carriers. This work will provide a promising strategy for constructing nanofiber‐based heterojunction photocatalysts for efficient low‐concentration CO2 hydrogenation reactions.
Alginate‐Based Bio‐Nanohybrids with Unique Properties for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Qamar Shahzaib , Karim Sana , Aslam Samina , Jahangeer Muhammad , Nelofer Rubina , Nadeem Abad Ali , Qamar Sarmad Ahmad , Jesionowski Teofil , Bilal Muhammad
Published: November 2022

Alginate is among the widely applied polysaccharide‐based biomaterial owing to its natural occurrence, chemical versatility, non‐toxicity, environmental friendliness, unique biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mucoadhesive attributes. Nevertheless, it is associated with some demerits, such as inadequate mechanical features and biological activity that hamper broad‐spectrum biomedical scope. Different biopolymeric and nanomaterials have been incorporated into the alginate framework to develop robust nanoplatforms with desired functionalities to overcome this inadequacy. Hybrids of alginate with biopolymers and nanostructured materials improve its mechanical and physicochemical characteristics and may also boost its biological activity. This review aimed to summarize the ongoing progress in alginate‐based nanoplatforms for potential applications in biomedical sectors. Combining alginate with biopolymers (chitosan, starch) and nanostructured materials (silica nanoparticles, graphene oxide nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes/nanorods, and metal oxide nanoparticles) are particularly discussed for drug delivery, wound dressing, tissue engineering, and 3D bioprinting applications. The ongoing challenging facets and futuristic directions on alginate blends are also spotlighted. The alginate‐based hybrids will likely demonstrate biocompatibility, enhanced cell adhesion, cell proliferation, desired mechanical strength, and excellent mineralization. Therefore, they are considered bio‐inspired materials for futuristic biomedical applications.
Deep learning algorithm reveals probabilities of stage‐specific time to conversion in individuals with neurodegenerative disease LATE
Authors: Wu Xinxing , Peng Chong , Nelson Peter T. , Cheng Qiang
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Limbic‐predominant age‐related TAR DNA‐binding protein 43 (TDP‐43) encephalopathy (LATE) is a recently defined neurodegenerative disease. Currently, there is no effective way to make a prognosis of time to stage‐specific future conversions at an individual level.

Methods

After using the Kaplan–Meier estimation and log‐rank test to confirm the heterogeneity of LATE progression, we developed a deep learning–based approach to assess the stage‐specific probabilities of time to LATE conversions for different subjects.

Results

Our approach could accurately estimate the disease incidence and transition to next stages: the concordance index was at least 82% and the integrated Brier score was less than 0.14. Moreover, we identified the top 10 important predictors for each disease conversion scenario to help explain the estimation results, which were clinicopathologically meaningful and most were also statistically significant.

Discussion

Our study has the potential to provide individualized assessment for future time courses of LATE conversions years before their actual occurrence.
Wo ein Wille, da ein Weg? Migrationspolitik in ländlichen Räumen
Authors: Younso Christin , Schammann Hannes
Published: November 2022

Das Kapitel fokussiert lokale Politiken zu Migration und Vielfalt. Als Grundlage dient ein konzeptionelles Modell, das vier Gruppen von Einflussfaktoren benennt: den institutionellen Rahmen (z. B. rechtliche Spielräume), strukturelle Bedingungen (z. B. Daten zu Ländlichkeit oder Ausländeranteil), lokale Diskurse (z. B. gefestigte Narrative im Zusammenhang mit Migration) sowie lokale Schlüsselakteur*innen (d. h. Bürgermeister*innen, Verwaltung, Zivilgesellschaft). Das Kapitel analysiert die Entstehung ländlicher Politiken exemplarisch anhand ausgewählter Integrationsdimensionen sowie in ihrem übergreifenden Steuerungsanspruch.