bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of QbD based approach in development and validation of RP‐HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of methotrexate and baicalin in dual‐drug‐loaded liposomes
Authors: Adin Syeda Nashvia , Gupta Isha , Aqil Mohd , Mujeeb Mohd
Published: January 2023

The present study delineates the development of a novel, rugged and sensitive stability‐indicating risk‐based HPLC method for the concurrent estimation of methotrexate (MTX) and baicalin (BCL) in dual‐drug‐loaded‐nanopharmaceuticals based on an analytical quality‐by‐design approach. Preliminary screening trials along with systemic risk analysis were performed, endeavouring to explicate the critical method attributes, namely pH, percentage of orthophosphoric acid and percentage of acetonitrile, that influence the critical quality attributes. Box–Behnken design was utilized for the optimization of the tailing factor as the response for MTX and BCL in a short run time. The chromatographic conditions were optimized by performing 17 experimental runs using design expert software. The chromatographic conditions were selected after the analysis of the optimized zone within the confines of the design space: water:acetonitrile adjusted to a pH of 3.0 with 0.05% orthophosphoric acid (60:40, %v/v) was the mobile phase, the flow rate was 1.0 ml/min and an analytical C18 column was used at an isobestic wavelength of 282 nm. Furthermore, the optimized method was validated in accordance with the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use guidelines and was found to be within the prescribed limits. Therefore, the developed reversed‐phase‐high‐performance liquid chromatography method has a high degree of practical utility for synchronous detection of MTX and BCL in pharmaceutical nano‐dosage forms such as protein‐based nanoparticles, nanocrystals, polymeric nanoparticles and metallic nanoparticles in in vivo and in vitro studies.
Tris(boranil) Columnar Liquid Crystalline Fluorophores: pseudo‐Triphenylene Boron(III) Complexes with Peripheral N−B−O Linkages
Authors: Veerabhadraswamy B. N. , Khatavi Santosh Y. , Rathod Anil S. , Kanakala Madhu Babu , Rao D. S. Shankar , Yelamaggad Channabasaveshwar V.
Published: January 2023

The borate complexes derived from salicylaldimine ligands, called boranils, possess a wide range of photophysical and electronic characteristics intrinsically. The unique combination of molecular rigidity, rendered by four‐coordinate boron bridges, and extended π‐conjugation enable them to serve as technically feasible fluorescent materials (dyes). The incorporation of liquid crystallinity in these boron(III) complexes, especially the columnar (Col) mesomorphism, which is overlooked hitherto, would provide a new dimension to these complexes. Herein, we report the first examples of tris(boranil) discotic liquid crystal (LC) dyes that have been readily synthesized by treating tris(N‐salicylideneaniline)s, (TSAN)s, with BF3.Et2O in the presence of an acid quencher. These C3‐symmetric borate complexes self‐assemble into the Col phase, existing over a wide thermal span including room temperature. The 2D periodic order of the Col phases shows dependence on the length of the peripheral tails. The photophysical measurements reveal the fluorescence emission in their two condensed states viz., solid and Col phase, and in solution. Their electrochemical, two‐step oxidation process coupled with the aforesaid features upholds their significance in applied research.
Attachment anxiety, reflective functioning and well‐being as predictors of burn‐out and psychological distress among psychotherapists: A longitudinal study
Authors: Brugnera Agostino , Zarbo Cristina , Scalabrini Andrea , Compare Angelo , Mucci Clara , Carrara Silvia , Tasca Giorgio Angelo , Hewitt Paul , Greco Andrea , Poletti Barbara , Esposito Rosy , Cattafi Francesco , Zullo Claudio , Lo Coco Gianluca
Published: January 2023

Objective

This study aims to longitudinally investigate the effects of individual's factors on subsequent burn‐out/psychological distress in a sample of mental health practitioners, testing if higher attachment anxiety and avoidance and lower reflective functioning (i.e., certainty and uncertainty of mental states) and well‐being at baseline may lead to a greater psychological distress and burn‐out 1 year later.

Methods

The sample consisted of 40 experienced psychotherapists (females: 72.5%; mean age: 47.40 ± 9.48 years) who completed a battery of questionnaires at baseline and 1 year later. Statistical analyses were conducted with Bayesian multiple linear regressions.

Results

Greater attachment anxiety and certainty about mental states and lower individual's well‐being at baseline predicted greater burn‐out 1 year later. Similarly, greater attachment anxiety and lower individual's well‐being at baseline predicted psychological distress at 1 year follow‐up. Of note, uncertainty of mental states and avoidant attachment were not associated with outcomes.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the levels of burn‐out and psychological distress among psychotherapists may be alleviated with interventions targeting attachment insecurity, specific aspects of reflective functioning (i.e., certainty about mental states) and well‐being.
AlN Thin Films Grown on Different Substrates by Metal Nitride Vapor Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Wang Endong , Zhang Hui , Xie Xinjian , Xie Luxiao , Bian Lifeng , Chen Guifeng
Published: January 2023

In this paper, AlN thin films are fabricated by green and efficient metal nitride vapor phase epitaxy (MNVPE). First, AlN films are grown on c‐plane sapphire substrates at different molar flow ratios (V/III ratios) of the source material, and the effects of V/III on the crystal quality and surface morphology of the films are investigated. The growth conditions are kept constant (growth temperature of 1550 °C, growth pressure of 10 kPa, V/III ratio of 4420), and the AlN thin films are prepared by heterogeneous epitaxial growth on c‐plane sapphire, silicon (111), and GaN substrates. The crystal quality, residual stress, and luminescence properties of epitaxial AlN thin films on the three substrates are investigated using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and UV spectrophotometer. Among them, the FWHM value of the sample AlN/GaN (002) plane can reach 338 arcsec. The residual stress in samples AlN/Sapphire, AlN/GaN and AlN/Si are 1027, −81, and −541 MPa, respectively, and the sample AlN/GaN has fewer point defects. At the same time, a 50‐nanometer‐thick void layer appears in the AlN thin film samples prepared on GaN substrates, which provides a new technical idea for realizing large‐scale and high‐quality self‐supporting AlN thin films.
Multiplicative Topological Indices of the Crystal Cubic Carbon Structure
Authors: Sharma Sahil , Bhat Vijay Kumar , Lal Sohan
Published: January 2023

Chemical graph theory assumes an imperative part in displaying and planning any chemical structure or chemical network. The molecular structure of a chemical molecule strongly relates to its properties. The graphs that make up the molecular structure are made up of units known as vertices, and the covalent bonds that connect them are known as edges. The topological indices of any chemical compound can be used to better understand the chemical structure and its biological characteristics. In this study, the degree‐based multiplicative topological indices of the crystalline structure of cubic carbon (CCS) for levels m = 3–10 are computed, CCS[m] being one of the precious carbon allotropes.
Examination of bidirectional relationships between fear of negative evaluation and weight/shape concerns over 3 years: A longitudinal cohort study of Australian adolescents
Authors: Trompeter Nora , Austen Emma , Bussey Kay , Reilly Erin E. , Cunningham Mitchell L. , Mond Jonathan , Lonergan Alexandra , Tame Jack , Mitchison Deborah
Published: January 2023

Objective

Adolescents commonly experience both fear of negative evaluation and weight/shape concerns. However, evidence concerning the prospective associations between these constructs during adolescence is limited. The current study examined the bidirectional relationships between fear of negative evaluation and weight/shape concerns over a 3‐year period in adolescents.

Method

Australian high school students (n = 2073; 55% girls) completed self‐report measures at three timepoints, each 1 year apart.

Results

Findings showed a bidirectional relationship, whereby increases in fear of negative evaluation predicted exacerbated weight/shape concerns, and vice versa. Results point towards a vicious maintenance cycle between fear of negative evaluation and weight/shape concerns.

Discussion

Findings from the current study highlight the importance of considering both fear of negative evaluation and weight/shape concerns in the development of health promotion and prevention programs designed to reduce the occurrence and adverse effects of body dissatisfaction or improve general mental health.

Public Significance

Many adolescents experience some level of fear of negative evaluation (i.e., worry about being judged by others) and worry about their weight and/or shape. This study examined the prospective relationship between both constructs. Findings showed a bidirectional relationship, whereby higher fear of negative evaluation predicted increased weight/shape concerns, and vice versa. Programs designed to reduce body dissatisfaction might be improved by targeting both fear of negative evaluation and weight/shape concerns.
A suite of broadband physics‐based ground motion simulations for the Istanbul region
Authors: Zhang Wenyang , Crempien Jorge G.F. , Kurtulus Asli , Chen Peng‐Yu , Arduino Pedro , Taciroglu Ertugrul
Published: January 2023

Physics‐based earthquake ground motion simulations (GMS) have acquired significant growth over the last two decades, mainly due to the explosive developments of high‐performance computing techniques and resources. These techniques benefit high/medium seismicity regions such as the city of Istanbul, which presents insufficient historical ground motion data to properly estimate seismic hazard and risk. We circumvent this reality with the aid of the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) facilities to perform a suite of 57 high‐fidelity broadband (8–12 Hz) large‐scale physics‐based GMS for a region in Istanbul, Turkey. This paper focuses on the details of simulated GMS: (i) validation of the GMS approach against recorded ground motions produced by the 2019 Silivri earthquake; (ii) characteristics of 57 different source models, which aim to consider the uncertainties of many fault rupture features, including the length and width, dip, strike, and rake angles of considered fault planes, as well as hypocenter locations and earthquake magnitudes ranging between 6.5 and 7.2; (iii) high‐resolution topography and bathymetry and seismic data that are incorporated into all GMS; (iv) simulation results, such as PGAs and PGVs versus and distances to fault ruptures (), of 2912 surface stations for all 57 GMS. More importantly, this research provides a massive database of displacement, velocity and acceleration time histories in all three directions over more than 20,000 stations at both surface and bedrock levels. Such site‐specific high‐density and ‐frequency simulated ground motions can notably contribute to the seismic risk assessment of this region and many other applications.
Assessment of ground motion amplitude scaling using interpretable Gaussian process regression: Application to steel moment frames
Authors: Fayaz Jawad , Torres‐Rodas Pablo , Medalla Miguel , Naeim Farzad
Published: January 2023

The process of ground motion selection and scaling is an integral part of hazard‐ and risk‐consistent seismic demand analysis of structures. Due to the lack of ground motion records that naturally possess high amplitude and intensity, the research community generally relies on scaling the records to match a target hazard intensity level. The scaling factors used are frequently as high as 10. Due to the criticism received in previous research studies, the extent of amplitude scaling and its process has become a matter of debate, and various constraints on the scaling factors have been proposed. The primary argument against unrestricted amplitude scaling is the unrealistic nature of the scaled records and the possible biases caused in the engineering demand parameters (EDPs) of structures. This study presents a framework to utilize machine‐learning and statistical techniques for the assessment of ground motion amplitude scaling for nonlinear time‐history analysis (NTHA) of structures. The framework utilizes Bayesian non‐parametric Gaussian process regressions (GPRs) as surrogate models to obtain statistical estimates of EDPs for scaled and unscaled ground motions. The GPR surrogate models are developed based on a large‐scale analysis of five steel moment frames (SMFs) using 200 unscaled as‐recorded ground motions for ten spectral acceleration levels, () (ranging from 0 g to maximum considered earthquake, MCE) and 2500 scaled ground motions representing 50 scale factors (), and the 10 levels for each SMF. For each building, two types of EDPs are considered: i) peak inter‐story drift ratio (PIDR) and ii) peak floor acceleration (PFA). To provide a better interpretation of the GPR surrogate models, the concept of explainable artificial intelligence (i.e., Shapley additive explanation, SHAP) is used to obtain insights into the decision‐making process of the GPR models with respect to the and . Then, for the 10 levels, the GPR‐based EDP estimates under scaled ground motions corresponding to 50 different SFs are compared with the EDP estimates of unscaled ground motions. The comparison is conducted using Kolmogorov–Smirnov (KS) statistical hypothesis test. Results indicate that the range of allowable s depends on two factors: i) intensity level (characterized by ), and ii) the dynamic properties of the building. In general, it is noticed that allowable s range between 0.5 and 3.0 for PIDRs, and from 0.6 to 2.0 for PFAs. Finally, the EDP between the unscaled and scaled ground motions are adhered to various discrepancies observed in different intensity measures representing amplitude‐, duration‐, energy‐, and frequency‐ content of the two sets of ground motions.
Advancement in COVID‐19 detection using nanomaterial‐based biosensors
Authors: Truong Phuoc Loc , Yin Yiming , Lee Daeho , Ko Seung Hwan
Published: January 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has exemplified how viral growth and transmission are a significant threat to global biosecurity. The early detection and treatment of viral infections is the top priority to prevent fresh waves and control the pandemic. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has been identified through several conventional molecular methodologies that are time‐consuming and require high‐skill labor, apparatus, and biochemical reagents but have a low detection accuracy. These bottlenecks hamper conventional methods from resolving the COVID‐19 emergency. However, interdisciplinary advances in nanomaterials and biotechnology, such as nanomaterials‐based biosensors, have opened new avenues for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of pathogens in the field of healthcare. Many updated nanomaterials‐based biosensors, namely electrochemical, field‐effect transistor, plasmonic, and colorimetric biosensors, employ nucleic acid and antigen–antibody interactions for SARS‐CoV‐2 detection in a highly efficient, reliable, sensitive, and rapid manner. This systematic review summarizes the mechanisms and characteristics of nanomaterials‐based biosensors for SARS‐CoV‐2 detection. Moreover, continuing challenges and emerging trends in biosensor development are also discussed.
Medicaid reimbursement rates for primary care services and behavioral health outcomes
Authors: Maclean Johanna Catherine , McClellan Chandler , Pesko Michael F. , Polsky Daniel
Published: January 2023

We study the effects of changing Medicaid reimbursement rates for primary care services on behavioral health outcomes—defined here as mental illness and substance use disorders. Medicaid enrollees are at elevated risk for these, and other, chronic conditions and are likely to have unmet treatment needs. We apply two‐way fixed‐effects regressions to survey data specifically designed to measure behavioral health outcomes over the period 2010–2016. We find that higher primary care reimbursement rates reduce mental illness and substance use disorders among non‐elderly adult Medicaid enrollees, although we interpret findings for substance use disorders with some caution as they may be vulnerable to differential pre‐trends. Overall, our findings suggest positive spillovers from a policy designed to target primary care services to behavioral health outcomes.
Diffusion of a new drug among ambulatory physicians—The impact of patient pathways
Authors: Flemming Ronja , Frölich Franziska , Donner‐Banzhoff Norbert , Sundmacher Leonie
Published: January 2023

When drugs enter the market, physicians' prescribing behavior plays a crucial role in the diffusion process. Although regulations to foster economically efficient prescribing exist, physicians have some degree of freedom in choosing medication and are subject to various influencing factors. The aim of the present analysis is to investigate how interaction among patients and physicians affects the diffusion. We look at two different ways that patient pathways might influence physicians and examine these effects for Sacubitril/Valsartan (S/V), a new drug for patients with heart failure. Using administrative data from Germany, we identify physicians who prescribed S/V in the first 2 years of its availability. We apply survival models to estimate the impact of the patient‐physician interaction on the physicians' adoption time. To this end, we determine whether individual physicians treated patients that had been prescribed S/V, and how many other physicians already prescribing S/V were connected in patient‐sharing networks. Our main findings are that patients with a previous prescription seem to induce adoption by demanding repeat prescriptions. Moreover, patients establish connections between physicians that may lead to prescriptions for new patients. Our results therefore suggest that patient pathways play a significant role in the diffusion of a new drug.
Are Ecuadorian banks enough technically efficient for growth? A clinical study
Authors: Proaño‐Rivera Bladimir , Feria‐Dominguez José Manuel
Published: January 2023

In this article, we estimate the technical efficiency ratio for a sample of 24 financial institutions in Ecuador over the period 2015–2019. To do so, we first apply a non‐parametric method such as the data envelopment analysis (DEA). Under variable returns to scale and output‐oriented “Interest Income”, the average technical efficiency for the 24 banks is 84.26% and, under output‐oriented “Other Operating Income”, the average technical efficiency is 73.22%. We find that the group of large banks has higher levels of efficiency and that there are still opportunities for improvement in the group of medium and small banks. We also estimate that 80% of Ecuadorian banks need to make potential improvements either by increasing their output or reducing their inputs, such as salary costs, to increase the efficiency. In addition, the growth of the banking sector is crucial to achieve the financial development in Ecuador, being significant the efficiency indices, which show that a 1% increase in banking efficiency could increase its size by USD 605 million. By using the random effects panel data econometric model, we demonstrate that the growth of the banking industry is mostly influenced by the concentration of deposits and taxes.
Testing random assignment to peer groups
Authors: Jochmans Koen
Published: January 2023

Identification of peer effects is complicated by the fact that the individuals under study may select their peers. Random assignment to peer groups has proven useful to sidestep such a concern. In the absence of a formal randomization mechanism, it needs to be argued that assignment is “as good as” random. This paper introduces a simple yet powerful test to do so. We provide theoretical results for this test. As a by‐product, we equally obtain such results for an approach popularized by Guryan et al. (2009). These results help to explain why this approach suffers from low power, as has been observed elsewhere.
Safety assessment of a solid lipid curcumin particle preparation: In vitro and in vivo genotoxicity studies
Authors: Phipps Kirt R. , Bali Victoria , Kukadia Dhaval , Patel Chintan , Muchhara Jayesh
Published: January 2023

Curcumin, one of the three principal curcuminoids found within turmeric rhizomes, has long been associated with numerous physiologically beneficial effects; however, its efficacy is limited by its inherently low bioavailability. Several novel formulations of curcumin extracts have been prepared in recent years to increase the systemic availability of curcumin; Longvida®, a solid lipid curcumin particle preparation, is one such formulation that has shown enhanced bioavailability compared with standard curcuminoid extracts. As part of a safety assessment of Longvida® for use as a food ingredient, a bacterial reverse mutation test (OECD TG 471) and mammalian cell erythrocyte micronucleus test (OECD TG 474) were conducted to assess its genotoxic potential. In the bacterial reverse mutation test, Longvida® did not induce base‐pair or frame‐shift mutations at the histidine locus in the genome of Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98, TA100, TA102, TA1535, and TA1537, in the presence or absence of exogenous metabolic activation. Additionally, two gavage doses (24 h apart) of Longvida® to Swiss albino mice at 500, 1000, or 2000‐mg/kg body weight/day did not cause structural or numerical chromosomal damage in somatic cells in the mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus test. It was therefore concluded that Longvida® is non‐genotoxic.
The role of S477N mutation in the molecular behavior of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein: An in‐silico perspective
Authors: Mondeali Mozhgan , Etemadi Ali , Barkhordari Khabat , Mobini Kesheh Mina , Shavandi Sara , Bahavar Atefeh , Tabatabaie Fatemeh Hosseini , Mahmoudi Gomari Mohammad , Modarressi Mohammad H.
Published: January 2023

The attachment of SARA‐CoV‐2 happens between ACE2 and the receptor binding domain (RBD) on the spike protein. Mutations in this domain can affect the binding affinity of the spike protein for ACE2. S477N, one of the most common mutations reported in the recent variants, is located in the RBD. Today's computational approaches in biology, especially during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, assist researchers in predicting a protein's behavior in contact with other proteins in more detail. In this study, we investigated the interactions of the S477N‐hACE2 in silico to find the impact of this mutation on its binding affinity for ACE2 and immunity responses using dynamics simulation, protein–protein docking, and immunoinformatics methods. Our computational analysis revealed an increased binding affinity of N477 for ACE2. Four new hydrogen and hydrophobic bonds in the mutant RBD‐ACE2 were formed (with S19 and Q24 of ACE2), which do not exist in the wild type. Also, the protein spike structure in this mutation was associated with an increase in stabilization and a decrease in its fluctuations at the atomic level. N477 mutation can be considered as the cause of increased escape from the immune system through MHC‐II.
Mental health providers' perceptions of competency when working with autistic children with co‐occurring mental health diagnoses
Authors: Linsao Amy W. , McKiernan Patrick M. , Morgan Stephanie M.
Published: January 2023

Psychotherapy research has long focused on provider competence and treatment efficacy. Mental health providers treat diverse client populations with varying, complex needs. Though estimates vary, the rate of children diagnosed with autism and a co‐occurring psychiatric disorder is relatively high. While behavioral approaches to treatment have been established as the gold standard, talk‐based therapies are increasingly common, and a broader range of providers are treating this population. There are gaps in the literature regarding empirically supported, targeted approaches, and provider sense of competency in addressing complex needs. The aim of this secondary qualitative analysis was to gain further insights into mental health providers' experiences of psychotherapy with autistic children with a cooccurring diagnosis. Eleven licensed clinicians participated in semistructured interviews. The following themes emerged: perception of competency, complex needs, and family involvement. Recommendations for a collaborative approach, increased opportunities for training, and standardized, targeted assessments and treatment protocols were made.
The Role of the Mesencephalic Astrocyte‐Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Patients in Intensive Care Units Receiving Voriconazole Therapy
Authors: Cheng Lin , Liang Zaiming , You Xi , Jia Changsheng , Liu Zhirui , Sun Fengjun
Published: January 2023

Recent publications regarding the role of mesencephalic astrocyte‐derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) in various metabolic and degenerative disorders suggest that MANF is both a marker of disease and a possible therapeutic agent. We investigate the role of plasma MANF levels in patients in intensive care units (ICUs) receiving voriconazole (VCZ) therapy while also comparing MANF levels in healthy individuals. A single‐center prospective study was conducted. The plasma MANF level in patients in ICU was found to have high interindividual variability and was significantly higher than that in healthy controls (P < .01). Compared with patients using VCZ only, patients using both VCZ and amikacin had 3‐fold lower MANF concentrations (P < .05). The MANF concentrations also decreased when alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and serum creatinine levels were above the upper limits of the normal range (P < .05) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was below the lower limit of the normal range (P < .01). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that low MANF levels were associated with high ALP levels, high creatinine levels, and low eGFR. The cut‐off value of MANF for ALP levels higher than 126 U/L was 0.35 ng/mL (area under curve, AUC = 0.62, 95%CI = 0.50–0.74, P = .044); for serum creatinine levels higher than 104 μmol/L, the cut‐off value was 0.41 ng/mL (AUC = 0.74, 95%CI = 0.62–0.87, P = .001); and for eGFR below 80 mL/min, the cut‐off value was 0.75 ng/mL (AUC = 0.70, 95%CI = 0.59–0.81, P = .002). Monitoring plasma MANF levels may be of value for clinical decision‐making regarding the choice of antibiotics and the prediction of impaired liver function and renal function in patients admitted to an ICU.
Comparison of the Treatment Persistence Among 4 Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation: A 5‐Year Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Aigami Tomohiro , Ishigo Tomoyuki , Takada Ryo , Yano Toshiyuki , Koyama Masayuki , Katano Satoshi , Fujii Satoshi , Fukudo Masahide
Published: January 2023

Four direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are used in Japan (edoxaban, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and dabigatran); however, few studies have examined the long‐term treatment persistence of these DOACs. Furthermore, the factors associated with persistence remain unclear. This single‐center, retrospective cohort study enrolled participants who were newly prescribed the 4 DOACs between January 1, 2012, and April 30, 2020. We assessed the treatment persistence rate by calculating the cumulative incidence rate of prescription switch or discontinuation for 5 years from the initial prescription. The factors associated with persistence were examined using multivariate analysis. The edoxaban was used as a reference for comparison with the other DOACs. The persistence rate at 5 years was 52.9% for all DOACs, including 67.0%, 51.6%, 50.2%, and 37.0% for edoxaban, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and dabigatran, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that age >65 years (hazard ratio [HR], 0.62 [95%CI, 0.41–0.93]), chronic kidney disease (HR, 1.63 [95%CI, 1.11–2.39]), baseline hemoglobin (HR, 0.85 [95%CI, 0.78–0.93]), diabetes mellitus (HR, 0.51 [95%CI, 0.29–0.93]), and type of DOACs (rivaroxaban: HR, 1.81 [95%CI, 1.03–3.18]; apixaban: HR, 2.00 [95%CI, 1.15–3.48]; and dabigatran: HR, 2.84 [95%CI, 1.66–4.86]) were significantly associated with nonpersistence at 1 year. At 5 years, diabetes mellitus (HR, 0.60 [95%CI, 0.37–0.97]) and type of DOAC were significantly associated with nonpersistence (rivaroxaban: HR, 1.79 [95%CI, 1.09–2.94]; apixaban: HR, 2.04 [95%CI, 1.26–3.31]; and dabigatran: HR, 2.76 [1.73–4.42]). Long‐term treatment persistence differed according to the type of DOAC, with edoxaban exhibiting the highest level of persistence. The factors associated with persistence may change over the treatment course, but larger studies are required to generalize our findings.
Executive function profiles of preschool children with autism spectrum disorder and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review
Authors: Christoforou Marina , Jones Emily J. H. , White Philippa , Charman Tony
Published: January 2023

Background

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are both associated with differences in Executive Functioning (EF). There is lack of clarity around the specificity or overlap of EF differences in early childhood when both disorders are first emerging.

Method

This systematic review aims to delineate preschool EF profiles by examining studies comparing the EF profiles of children with and without ASD or ADHD. Five electronic databases were systematically searched (last search in May 2022) to identify published, quantitative studies of global and specific EF (Inhibition, Shifting, Working Memory (WM), Planning and Attentional Control), comparing children aged 2‐6 with a diagnosis of ASD or ADHD to peers without ASD or ADHD.

Results

Thirty‐one empirical studies (10 ADHD and 21 ASD studies) met criteria for inclusion. EF profiles in preschool ASD were characterised by consistent Shifting, and, in most cases, Inhibition impairments. ADHD studies consistently reported impairments in Inhibition and Planning, and in most cases WM. Findings with regards to sustained Attention and Shifting in ADHD and WM and Planning in ASD were mixed.

Conclusions

Overall, current evidence indicates overlap but also some specificity in EF impairments in preschool ASD and ADHD. There were differences in the degree to which individual domains were impaired, with Shifting more consistently impaired in ASD, and Inhibition, WM and Planning in ADHD. Methodological issues and differences in methods of outcome measurement could potentially underlie mixed findings, as informant‐based measures revealed more robust EF impairments than laboratory‐based tasks.
Acute kidney injury in Jamaicans with sickle cell disease hospitalized with COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Fisher Lori‐Ann , Asnani Monika
Published: January 2023

Despite a high occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) with COVID‐19 infection, there are no data on its incidence in sickle cell disease (SCD). We performed a single‐center retrospective chart review of persons aged >1 year with SCD, COVID‐19 infection and no prior dialysis requirement hospitalized from June 1, 2020 to May 31, 2022. Demographics, clinical, laboratory characteristics and outcomes were abstracted. AKI was defined using Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Of 38 patients meeting study criteria (60.6% female, mean age ± SD 38.6 ± 15.9 years), 3 (7.9%) were COVID vaccinated. Fifty‐five percent (55%) developed AKI with 7.9% (n = 3) requiring dialysis. Participants with AKI were older (44.9 versus 30.8 years, p = 0.005), with a higher proportion having baseline chronic kidney disease (52% versus 0%, p = 0.001). Severe COVID infection [age‐adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 8.93, 95%CI: 1.73‐45.99, p = 0.033], red cell transfusion (aOR 7.92, 1.47‐42.69) and decrease in hemoglobin per unit from baseline (aOR 2.85, 1.24‐2.28) were associated with AKI. Five persons died in hospital, with AKI resulting in higher median length of stay (12 versus 5 days, p = 0.007). Targeted COVID‐19 preventative measures and multinational longitudinal studies to ascertain the impact of AKI and COVID‐19 infection in SCD are needed.
Severe dilated cardiomyopathy as an unusual clinical presentation in an infant with sialidosis type II
Authors: Eyskens Margot , Bruyndonckx Luc , Van Kuilenburg André B. P. , Eyskens François
Published: January 2023

We report a unique case of an infant with a severe dilated cardiomyopathy as the clinical presentation of sialidosis type II (OMIM 256550), a rare autosomal recessive inherited lysosomal storage disease that is characterized by partial or complete deficiency of α‐neuraminidase, following mutations in the gene neuraminidase 1 (NEU1), located on the short arm of chromosome 6 (6p21.3). Accumulation of metabolic intermediates leads to severe morbidity, especially myoclonus, gait disturbances, cherry‐red macules with secondary loss of visual acuity, impaired color vision and night blindness, and sometimes additional neurological findings such as seizures. Dilated cardiomyopathies are characterized by dilation and impaired contraction of the left or both ventricles, whereas most of the metabolic cardiomyopathies are hypertrophic forms appearing with diastolic dysfunction and, in case of lysosomal storage diseases, often associated with valvular thickening and prolapse. Cardiac manifestations in systemic storage disorders are common although rarely described in mucolipidoses. In mucolipidosis type 2 or I‐cell disease only three cases were presented with severe dilated cardiomyopathy and endocardial fibroelastosis in infancy, as opposed to sialidosis type II, by which to the best of our knowledge no presentation of dilated cardiomyopathy was previously reported in literature.
A New OATP‐Mediated Hepatobiliary‐Specific Mn(II)‐Based MRI Contrast Agent for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Mice: A Comparison With Gd‐EOB‐DTPA
Authors: Xue Yuan , Xiao Bin , Xia Zhiyang , Dai Lixiong , Xia Qian , Zhong Lei , Zhu Chunrong , Zhu Jiang
Published: January 2023

Background

Growing concerns about the safety of gadolinium (Gd)‐based contrast agents have reinforced the need for the development of Gd‐free MRI contrast agents (CAs) that are effective in imaging liver tumors.

Purpose

To evaluate the ability of Mn‐BnO‐TyEDTA MRI CA to detect hepatocellular carcinoma in a mouse model of implanted liver tumor.

Study Type

Prospective.

Animal Model

Thirteen orthotopically implanted liver tumor mice.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T/precontrast and postcontrast T1‐weighted fast spoiled gradient recalled echo and T2‐weighted fast recovery fast spin‐echo imaging with fat suppression.

Assessment

The relative enhancement ratio was calculated and statistically compared. Lesion detection in postcontrast images was analyzed by calculations of area under the curve (AUC, the increases in liver‐to‐tumor contrast‐to‐noise ratio [∆CNR] vs. time curve). Mn or Gd levels were measured in the liver and tumoral tissues by inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. Tumor specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and the expression of organic anion transfer peptide (OATP)1B1 was evaluated by immunofluorescence (IF) staining and mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) was calculated.

Statistical Tests

Unpaired t‐test and two‐tailed paired t‐test. P < 0.05 was considered statistical significance.

Results

Mn‐BnO‐TyEDTA and Gd‐EOB‐DTPA demonstrated nearly identical enhancement patterns in the liver, tumor, and psoas muscle and no difference in lesion detection (AUC10–30, Mn = 851 ∆CR·min, AUC10–30, Gd = 823 ∆CR·min). A Significant higher concentration of metal (Mn or Gd) was found in the liver compared to the tumor ([Mn]liver = 0.88 ± 0.07 μmmol/g, [Mn]tumor = 0.49 ± 0.05 μmmol/g, [Gd]liver = 0.65 ± 0.07 μmmol/g, [Gd]tumor = 0.27 ± 0.04 μmmol/g). IF staining showed significantly decreased expression of OATP1B1 in the tumor core compared to the liver (MFItumor = 5.28 ± 1.54, MFIliver = 25.49 ± 3.41).

Data Conclusion

Mn‐BnO‐TyEDTA can provide comparable hepatobiliary tumor contrast enhancement to Gd‐EOB‐DTPA.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Gastric ultrasound, citrulline, and intestinal fatty acid–binding protein as markers of gastrointestinal dysfunction in critically ill patients: A pilot prospective cohort study
Authors: Onuk Sevda , Ozer Nurhayat Tugra , Ozel Merve , Sipahioglu Hilal , Kahriman Güven , Baskol Gulden , Temel Sahin , Gundogan Kursat , Akin Aynur
Published: January 2023

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction is common in the intensive care unit (ICU), although there is no consensus on biomarkers of GI dysfunction. We aimed to evaluate ultrasound‐based gastric antrum measurements and serum intestinal fatty acid–binding protein (IFABP) and citrulline levels in relation to GI dysfunction in critically ill patients.

Methods

Adult critically ill patients receiving enteral nutrition and stayed for in the ICU for ≥48 h was included. GI dysfunction was described using Gastrointestinal Dysfunction Score (GIDS). Gastric antrum measurements, including craniocaudal (CC) diameter, anteroposterior diameter, and antral–cross sectional area (CSA), as well as serum levels for IFABP and citrulline, were prospectively recorded at baseline and on day 3 and day 5 of enteral nutrition. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to evaluate gastric ultrasound parameters, serum IFABP, and citrulline concentrations in predicting GI dysfunction.

Results

Thirty‐nine participants with a median age of 60 years were recruited and 46.2% of participants had GI dysfunction. ROC analysis revealed that the cutoff value of CSA score to predict GI dysfunction was 4.48 cm2, which provided 72.7% sensitivity and 77.2% specificity (area under the curve = 0.768, 95% CI: 0.555–0.980). At baseline, gastric residual volume was highly correlated with CC diameter and CSA (r = 0.764, P < 0.001 and r = 0.675, P < 0.001, respectively). Serum IFABP and citrulline levels had no correlation with GI dysfunction or gastric ultrasound parameters (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

CSA was associated with GI dysfunction in critically ill patients. Serum IFABP and citrulline concentrations were poor in predicting GI dysfunction.
A New Generation of Liquid Lasers from Engineered Semiconductor Nanocrystals with Giant Optical Gain
Authors: Wu Yuting , Huang Zhigao , Sun Qi , Ta Van Duong , Wang Sensen , Wang Yue
Published: January 2023

With the development of optofluidic technology, liquid lasers have attracted intense interest but still face a formidable challenge due to the lack of qualified gain media and creative device design. Compared to the organic fluorescent dyes and traditional CdSe‐based nanocrystals (NCs), the lead‐halide perovskite (LHP) NCs feature larger gain coefficient and higher robustness, which renders LHP NCs a promising unexploited liquid gain medium. Herein, for the first time, the hidden principle governing the solution‐based light amplification in LHP semiconductor NCs is demystified and it is demonstrated that the LHP NCs are superior solution‐phase gain media showing a giant (≈2600 cm−1) optical gain. On this basis, a novel microfluidic laser device is designed and realized that exhibits a record‐low pump threshold (≈22.7 µJ cm−2), high Q‐factor (≈7480), large output polarization (≈0.91), and long‐time robustness over high‐intensity operation, which is readily applicable to practical applications. The findings represent a significant step toward the technologically important liquid lasers of the new generation and can advance optofluidic applications.
Asymptotic invariants constructed from generic initial ideals
Authors: Malara Grzegorz
Published: January 2023

Generic initial ideals (gins for short) were systematically introduced by Galligo in 1974 under the name of Grauert invariants since they appeared apparently first in works of Grauert and Hironaka. Ever since they have been of interest in commutative algebra and indirectly in algebraic geometry. Recently, Mayes in a series of articles associated with gins of graded families of ideals geometric objects called limiting shapes. The construction resembles that of Okunkov bodies but there are some differences as well. This work is motivated by Mayes articles and explores the connections between gins, limiting shapes, and some asymptotic invariants of homogeneous ideals which are associated with the gins, for example, asymptotic regularity, Waldschmidt constant and some new invariants, which seem relevant from geometric point of view.
An interpolation problem in the Denjoy–Carleman classes
Authors: Albano Paolo , Mughetti Marco
Published: January 2023

Inspired by some iterative algorithms useful for proving the real analyticity (or the Gevrey regularity) of a solution of a linear partial differential equation with real‐analytic coefficients, we consider the following question. Given a smooth function defined on and given an increasing divergent sequence of positive integers such that the derivative of order of f has a growth of the type , when can we deduce that f is a function in the Denjoy–Carleman class ? We provide a positive result and show that a suitable condition on the gaps between the terms of the sequence is needed.
Projective descriptions of spaces of functions and distributions
Authors: Bargetz Christian , Nigsch Eduard A. , Ortner Norbert
Published: January 2023

We present projective descriptions of classical spaces of functions and distributions. More precisely, we provide descriptions of these spaces by seminorms, which are defined by a combination of classical norms and multiplication or convolution with certain functions. These seminorms are simpler than the ones given by a supremum over bounded or compact sets.
Decay property of solutions to the wave equation with space‐dependent damping, absorbing nonlinearity, and polynomially decaying data
Authors: Wakasugi Yuta
Published: January 2023

We study the large time behavior of solutions to the semilinear wave equation with space‐dependent damping and absorbing nonlinearity in the whole space or exterior domains. Our result shows how the amplitude of the damping coefficient, the power of the nonlinearity, and the decay rate of the initial data at the spatial infinity determine the decay rates of the energy and the
‐norm of the solution. In the appendix, we also give a survey of basic results on the local and global existence of solutions and the properties of weight functions used in the energy method.
Generalized osculating‐type ruled surfaces of singular curves
Authors: Doğan Yazıcı Bahar , İşbilir Zehra , Tosun Murat
Published: January 2023

In this study, we introduce generalized osculating‐type ruled surfaces of special singular curves. We give some theories and results about the geometric structure of the surface. In addition, the singular point classes of the surface are examined, and the conditions for being a cross‐cap surface are expressed. Generalized osculating‐type ruled surface is considered as a framed surface and its basic invariants are found and some results are given. Finally, we give some examples and figures to support the theories.
Numerically stable iterative methods for computing matrix sign function
Authors: Rani Litika , Kansal Munish
Published: January 2023

The main objective of this study is to develop two novel iterative schemes for computing the sign of a matrix with no pure imaginary eigenvalues. Detailed convergence analysis and asymptotical stability of the proposed methods are discussed. It is shown that the new schemes converge globally by drawing attraction basins. In addition, we extend the obtained results to compute nontrivial solutions of the Yang–Baxter‐like equation, provided the given matrix has no eigenvalues on the imaginary axis. To illustrate the effectiveness of theoretical developments, a class of numerical examples for matrices of various dimensions, including eigenvalue clustering, are worked out.
Quantized filtering for networked Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems with multipath data packet dropouts
Authors: Nithya Venkatesan , Sakthivel Rathinasamy , Kong Fanchao , Suveetha Veeralpatti Thangavel
Published: January 2023

This paper concerns the mixed
and passivity‐based filtering problem for networked nonlinear systems with randomly occurring parameter uncertainties, multipath data packet dropouts, time‐varying delay, and quantization effects. The discrete‐time nonlinear plant considered in this paper is modeled as a Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy system with plant rules. The data missing phenomenon is considered in both measurement and performance output signals due to the unreliable nature of communication links. Further, to reduce the network bandwidth utilization, the measurement quantization is also employed for both the outputs before transmitting through the communication channel. Also, additive filter gain fluctuation is taken into account to reflect the imprecision in filter implementation. Stochastic variables obeying the Bernoulli distribution are incorporated in the model description to characterize the random occurrence of parameter uncertainties and data packet dropouts. A set of sufficient conditions assuring the stochastic stability of the filtering error system with mixed
and passivity performance is derived according to Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, three numerical examples including mass–spring–damper and tunnel diode circuit model are established to establish the validity of the developed filter design algorithm.
Two‐step iterative methods for multiple roots and their applications for solving several physical and chemical problems
Authors: Behl Ramandeep , Bhalla Sonia , Chun Changbum
Published: January 2023

In this manuscript, we introduce a two‐step convergent iterative scheme to compute the roots with multiplicity
of nonlinear equations. Most of the schemes in literature have flexibility at either first substep or second step, while our scheme has the flexibility of choice at both substeps so that many existing methods are obtained as special cases. Our scheme has another advantage over earlier studies: It not only works for
but also
. It is shown that the methods obtained by our scheme are optimal as they satisfy Kung–Traub conjecture. Several physical and chemical examples are considered to check the performance of the methods and to analyze the theoretical results, and it is found that our methods show preferred outcomes over the existing schemes. Likewise, the basins of attraction of the schemes also confirm the same results for the performance of the suggested techniques over the compared ones.
Traveling wave and general form solutions for the coupled Higgs system
Authors: Duran Serbay , Durur Hülya , Yokuş Asıf
Published: January 2023

In this study, the coupled Higgs system, which is a special case of the coupled Higgs field equation, which is effective in energy transport in the sub‐particles of the atom, is discussed. With the help of the modified generalized exponential rational function method, which is an important instrument in obtaining traveling wave solutions, both the propagating wave solutions and general form solutions of coupled Higgs system are presented. These solutions are examined under some restrictive conditions as they are presented. It is argued that these solutions differ from the literature. The advantages and disadvantages of the method discussed in the conclusion and discussion section are discussed. In addition, the changes in the behavior of the traveling wave solution are discussed by giving physical meaning to some constants in the traveling wave solutions produced by the method. The effects on the traveling wave solution are analyzed for different values of wave number, wave velocity, and wave frequency, which have physically important meanings. In addition, the behaviors caused by these effects are supported with the help of simulation.