bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retinal Neovascularization in Posterior Polar Annular Choroidal Dystrophy
Authors: Bommakanti Nikhil , Besirli Cagri G. , Zhao Peter Y.
Published: December 2022

This case report describes the development of posterior subcapsular cataract and retinal neovascularization in a patient with posterior polar annular choroidal dystrophy.
Development of the corpus callosum and cognition after neonatal encephalopathy
Authors: Byrne Hollie , Spencer Arthur P. C. , Geary Georgia , Jary Sally , Thoresen Marianne , Cowan Frances M. , Brooks Jonathan C. W. , Chakkarapani Elavazhagan
Published: December 2022

Objective

Neonatal imaging studies report corpus callosum abnormalities after neonatal hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE), but corpus callosum development and relation to cognition in childhood are unknown. Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we examined the relationship between corpus callosum size, microstructure and cognitive and motor outcomes at early school‐age children cooled for HIE (cases) without cerebral palsy compared to healthy, matched controls. A secondary aim was to examine the impact of HIE‐related neonatal brain injury on corpus callosum size, microstructure and growth.

Methods

Participants aged 6–8 years underwent MRI, the Movement Assessment Battery for Children Second Edition and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Fourth Edition. Cross‐sectional area, volume, fractional anisotropy and radial diffusivity of the corpus callosum and five subdivisions were measured. Multivariable regression was used to assess associations between total motor score, full‐scale IQ (FSIQ) and imaging metrics.

Results

Adjusting for age, sex and intracranial volume, cases (N = 40) compared to controls (N = 39) demonstrated reduced whole corpus callosum area (β = −26.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −53.17, −0.58), volume (β = −138.5, 95% CI = −267.54, −9.56), fractional anisotropy and increased radial diffusivity (P < 0.05) within segments II–V. In cases, segment V area (β = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.004, 0.35), volume (β = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.001, 0.079), whole corpus callosum fractional anisotropy (β = 13.8 95% CI = 0.6, 27.1) and radial diffusivity (β = −11.3, 95% CI = −22.22, −0.42) were associated with FSIQ. Growth of the corpus callosum was restricted in cases with a FSIQ ≤85, and volume was reduced in cases with mild neonatal multifocal injury compared to white matter injury alone.

Interpretation

Following neonatal HIE, morphological and microstructural changes in the corpus callosum are associated with reduced cognitive function at early school age.
Bifunctional Co3S4 Nanowires for Robust Sulfion Oxidation and Hydrogen Generation with Low Power Consumption
Authors: Xiao Zehao , Lu Chang , Wang Jie , Qian Yinyin , Wang Bowen , Zhang Qiang , Tang Aidong , Yang Huaming
Published: December 2022

Sulfion oxidation reaction holds great potential for replacing kinetically sluggish water oxidation to save power consumption and simultaneously purifying environmental sulfion‐rich sewage. However, it is still challenged by the insufficient mechanism understanding and questionable stability caused by sulfur passivation. Here, it is demonstrated that bifunctional Co3S4 nanowires for assembling hybrid seawater electrolyzer that combines anodic sulfion oxidation and cathodic seawater reduction with an ultra‐low power consumption of 1.185 kWh m−3 H2 under 100 mA cm−2, saving energy consumption over 70% compared to the traditional water splitting system. Unlike water is oxidized into O2 at high potentials under alkaline water splitting system, experiments combined with in situ characterizations uncover the stepwise oxidation of S2− to short‐chain polysulfides and then to value‐added product of S8. Density functional theory calculations prove that Co3S4 possesses reduced energy barriers in the rate‐determining S32− to S4− oxidation step and S8 desorption step, promoting conversion of short‐chain polysulfides and efficient desorption of S8. These findings reveal the catalytic mechanism of sulfion oxidation and inspire an economic approach toward the fabrication of bifunctional Co3S4 for achieving energy‐saving hydrogen production from seawater while rapidly disposing sulfion‐rich sewage with boosted activity and stability.
Inverted and Amplified CP‐EL Behavior Promoted by AIE‐Active Chiral Co‐Assembled Helical Nanofibers
Authors: Geng Zhongxing , Liu Zheng , Li Hang , Zhang Yu , Zheng Wenhua , Quan Yiwu , Cheng Yixiang
Published: December 2022

It is well‐known that high‐performance circularly polarized organic light‐emitting diodes (CP‐OLEDs) remain a formidable challenge to the future application of circularly polarized luminescent (CPL)‐active materials. Herein, the design of a pair of AIE‐active chiral enantiomers (L/D‐HP) is described to construct chiral co‐assemblies with an achiral naphthalimide dye (NTi). The resulting co‐assemblies emit an inverted CPL signal compared with that from the L/D‐HP enantiomers. After thermal annealing at 120 °C, the inverted CPL signal of this kind of L/D‐HP‐NTi with a 1:1 molar ratio shows regular and ordered helical nanofibers arranged through intermolecularly ordered layered packing and is accompanied with a further amplified effect (|gem| = 0.032, λem = 535 nm). Significantly, non‐doped CP‐OLEDs based on a device emitting layer (EML) of L/D‐HP‐NTi exhibits a low turn‐on voltage (Von) of 4.7 V, a high maximum brightness (Lmax) of 2001 cd m−2, and moderate maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 2.3%, as well as excellent circularly polarized electroluminescence (CP‐EL) (|gEL| = 0.023, λem = 533 nm).
Improved Anticoagulant Effect of Layered Double Hydroxide‐Heparin Nanocomposites on the Microcirculation of Septic Rats
Authors: Mao Min , Shan Yan Sheng , Wang Xiao Meng , Guo Pei Yu , Guo Fei , Pan Ling Feng , Wang Zi Dan , Xu Zhi Ping , Zhou Qi Hui , Shan Liang
Published: December 2022

Anticoagulant therapy is an important therapeutic tool for septic microcirculatory dysfunction. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is a potent anticoagulant with antithrombotic properties, which is a crucial factor for sepsis treatment. However, it has a short plasma half‐life and achieves low local concentrations; nanocomposite formulations may help overcome these limitations. Herein, it is aimed to determine if a functional layered double hydroxide (LDH)–LMWH nanocomposite improves microcirculation and organ function, while maximizing the antithrombotic effects and reducing bleeding risks in septic rats. This nanocomposite (fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)–fibrin antibody (Ab)–bovine serum albumin (BSA)–20LMWH–LDH) is constructed by intercalating LMWH and FITC into the LDH interlayer, and application of a BSA and an Ab coating onto the LDH nanoparticle surface. The nanocomposite released LMWH in a gradual and biphasic pattern, in an acidity‐triggered manner. Capillary tubule studies and intestinal microcirculation investigations show that green fluorescent nanocomposites accumulated around microthrombi, validating their targeting ability. Animal experiments reveal that the nanocomposites significantly improve microcirculation in septic rats with minimal pathological damage to the heart, lung, liver, and kidney tissues. Thus, this study provides a novel strategy for the treatment of septic microcirculatory dysfunction in clinical situations.
Advances in Selective Electrochemical Oxidation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to Produce High‐Value Chemicals
Authors: Guo Lei , Zhang Xiaoxue , Gan Li , Pan Lun , Shi Chengxiang , Huang Zhen‐Feng , Zhang Xiangwen , Zou Ji‐Jun
Published: December 2022

The conversion of biomass is a favorable alternative to the fossil energy route to solve the energy crisis and environmental pollution. As one of the most versatile platform compounds, 5‐hydroxymethylfural (HMF) can be transformed to various value‐added chemicals via electrolysis combining with renewable energy. Here, the recent advances in electrochemical oxidation of HMF, from reaction mechanism to reactor design are reviewed. First, the reaction mechanism and pathway are summarized systematically. Second, the parameters easy to be ignored are emphasized and discussed. Then, the electrocatalysts are reviewed comprehensively for different products and the reactors are introduced. Finally, future efforts on exploring reaction mechanism, electrocatalysts, and reactor are prospected. This review provides a deeper understanding of mechanism for electrochemical oxidation of HMF, the design of electrocatalyst and reactor, which is expected to promote the economical and efficient electrochemical conversion of biomass for industrial applications.
Accurate Field‐Effect Mobility and Threshold Voltage Estimation for Thin‐Film Transistors with Gate‐Voltage‐Dependent Mobility in Linear Region
Authors: Zhou Yuchen , Wang Xiao , Dodabalapur Ananth
Published: December 2022

The measurement of mobility and threshold voltage in thin‐film transistors (TFTs) in which the mobility is a function of gate voltage or carrier density is usually done inaccurately. Herein, accurate mobility calculations within the framework of the gradual channel approximation are described. Conventionally, the derivative of drain current with respect to gate voltage is often used to calculate mobilities in the linear region. This procedure often leads to errors when the mobility is not constant. Using a first‐order finite difference‐based calculations, it is shown how the correct field‐effect mobility can be extracted. The corrected mobility can be smaller than the conventionally calculated field‐effect mobility by up to a factor of 2. It is also shown that the corrected field‐effect mobility is identical to the average mobility. A threshold voltage that is independent of gate voltage value and suitable for disordered semiconductors is used for more accurate mobility calculations. The mobility and threshold voltage calculations are illustrated with experimental data from multiple TFTs with indium gallium zinc oxide, zinc tin oxide, and molybdenum disulfide channel layers.
Engineering the Interfacial Structure of Heavy Metal‐Free Colloidal Heterostructured Quantum Dots for High‐Efficiency Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation without Co‐Catalyst
Authors: Zhao Hongyang , Wang Wenhao , Li Xin , Li Peihang , Cai Mengke , You Yimin , Wang Rui , Channa Ali Imran , Tong Xin , Wang Zhiming M.
Published: December 2022

Solar‐driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting cell fabricated using colloidal quantum dots (QDs) is deemed as low‐cost and high‐efficiency solar‐to‐fuel conversion systems for future carbon neutrality. However, current QDs‐based PEC technologies are still hindered by several critical restrictions including the sluggish water oxidation kinetics and the frequent use of highly toxic QDs (e.g., Pb, Cd‐chalcogenides) as well as co‐catalysts, thus limiting their prospective commercial developments. Herein, the optoelectronic properties of heavy metal‐free InP/ZnSe core/shell QDs are tailored by introducing the interfacial GaP layers with variable thicknesses. As‐prepared InP/GaP/ZnSe core/shell QDs are used to sensitize TiO2 film as photoanodes for PEC water oxidation, showing an unprecedented photocurrent density of 4.1 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode with excellent durability under one sun AM 1.5 G illumination. It is demonstrated that engineering the thickness of the interfacial GaP layer enables optimized optical properties and can introduce appropriate intermediate energy levels to promote the charge extraction from the InP core to the ZnSe shell for enhanced PEC water oxidation efficiency. This study paves the way for interfacial engineering of “green” core/shell QDs to realize cost‐effective, environment‐friendly, high‐performance, and co‐catalyst‐free QDs‐based PEC water splitting system.
Bridging the gap: Development of an experiential learning–based health disparities curriculum
Authors: Caretta‐Weyer Holly A. , Hess Jamie M.
Published: December 2022

Background

The increasing number of vulnerable populations served by the emergency department (ED) calls for developing and implementing curricula aimed at training residents to deliver quality care for the most marginalized groups.

Objective

We aimed to address this by developing and piloting a curriculum to introduce the unique challenges and disparities encountered by our diverse ED patient population using an experiential learning approach.

Methods

We engaged community partners in designing and implementing a curriculum for incoming interns. This curriculum addresses specific populations encountered within the ED including patients with psychiatric illness, patients with cognitive disabilities, intoxicated patients, violent patients, patients of various cultural backgrounds, non–English‐speaking patients, and LGBTQ patients. Experiential and active learning sessions with content experts and site visits to area organizations were arranged. Pre‐, post‐, and time‐delayed surveys were deployed to evaluate the pilot of this curriculum.

Results

Thirteen incoming interns participated in the orientation curriculum. Residents' comfort with each of these various patient populations as well as familiarity with community and ED resources was assessed before, after, and 1 year delayed from each session (response 13/13, 100%). Their scores increased significantly from baseline in the postsurvey and were maintained 1 year later (p < 0.05). Residents additionally provided narrative responses regarding what they learned and what was most helpful after completing their intern year.

Conclusions

This pilot curriculum demonstrates that implementing an experiential learning curriculum and engaging community leaders and resources is key to training residents to address health disparities within their unique ED patient population. As such, it is imperative that we seek to immersively introduce trainees to the unique needs of the patient population they will serve early in training.
Soybean yield response to Bradyrhizobium inoculation on southeastern coastal plain soils
Authors: Irshad Annie , Marshall Michael W. , Greene Jeremy K. , Farmaha Bhupinder S.
Published: December 2022

Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is an important process to supply nitrogen (N) for the crop. However, the N fixation capacity of soybean varies widely among soils and climatic conditions. The N fixation potential is purportedly minimum in soils that do not have any prior history of soybean cultivation, and the application of inoculum is reported as necessary to facilitate this process. Rhizobium inocula can be applied at planting to promote BNF; however, their efficacy remains highly variable. A field experiment was conducted at irrigated and dryland sites in 2017 and 2018, where soybean was not cultivated in the preceding 10+ years. Bradyrhizobium inoculum was applied in liquid, dry, and a combination of liquid and dry formulations. The results showed that inoculum addition, in any formulation or combination, did not significantly increase soybean yield compared with the untreated control at any site. This study showed that inoculum application did not consistently increase yield in fields without soybean in the previous crop rotation for years. Future research is needed to identify soils, varieties, management practices, and environmental conditions for soybean inoculation which can increase yield and net farm profits.
Molecular dissolution behaviors on porous membrane surface using hierarchical metal–organic framework lamellar membrane
Authors: Chen Yihao , Chen Jingjing , Chen Chongchong , Wu Xiaoli , Li Yifan , Zhang Jie , Wang Jingtao
Published: December 2022

Lamellar membranes, especially assembled by microporous framework nanosheets, have excited interest for fast molecular permeation. However, the underlying molecular dissolution behaviors on membrane surface, especially at pore entrances, remain unclear. Here, hierarchical metal–organic framework (MOF) lamellar membranes with 7 nm‐thick surface layer and 553 nm‐thick support layer are prepared. Hydrophilic (–NH2) or hydrophobic (–CH3) groups are decorated at pore entrances on surface layer to manipulate wettability, while –CH3 groups on support layer provide comparable, low‐resistance paths. We demonstrate that molecular dissolution behaviors are determined by molecule–molecule and molecule–pore interactions, derived from intrinsic parameters of molecule and membrane. Importantly, two dissolution model equations are established: for hydrophobic membrane surface, dissolution activation energy (ES) obeys ES = Kmln[(γL‐γC)μd2], while turns to ES=Kaln[(γL‐γC)δeμd2] for hydrophilic one. Particularly, hydrophilic pore entrances exert strong interaction with polar molecules, thus compensating the energy consumed by molecule rearrangement, giving fast permeation (>270 L m−2 h−1 bar−1).
An updated phylogeny, biogeography, and PhyloCode‐based classification of Cornaceae based on three sets of genomic data
Authors: Du Zhi‐Yuan , (Jenny) Xiang Qiu‐Yun , Cheng Jin , Zhou Wenbin , Wang Qing‐Feng , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S.
Published: December 2022

Premise

A major goal of systematic biology is to uncover the evolutionary history of organisms and translate that knowledge into stable classification systems. Here, we integrate three sets of genome‐wide data to resolve phylogenetic relationships in Cornaceae (containing only Cornus s.l.), reconstruct the biogeographic history of the clade, and provide a revised classification using the PhyloCode to stabilize names for this taxonomically controversial group.

Methods

We conducted phylogenetic analyses using 312 single‐copy nuclear genes and 70 plastid genes from Angiosperms353 Hyb‐Seq, plus numerous loci from RAD‐Seq. We integrated fossils using morphological data and produced a dated phylogeny for biogeographical analysis.

Results

A well‐resolved, strongly supported, comprehensive phylogeny was obtained. Biogeographic analyses support an origin and rapid diversification of Cornus into four morphologically distinct major clades in the Northern Hemisphere (with an eastern Asian ancestor) during the late Cretaceous. Dispersal into Africa from eastern Asia likely occurred along the Tethys Seaway during the Paleogene, whereas dispersal into South America likely occurred during the Neogene. Diversification within the northern hemisphere likely involved repeated independent colonization of new areas during the Paleogene and Neogene along the Bering Land Bridge, the North Atlantic Land Bridge, and the Tethys Seaway. Thirteen strongly supported clades were named following rules of the PhyloCode.

Conclusions

Our study provides an example of integrating genomic and morphological data to produce a robust, explicit species phylogeny that includes fossil taxa, which we translate into an updated classification scheme using the PhyloCode to stabilize names.
An Efficient and Reversible Singlet Oxygen Quencher for Suppressing Photobleaching of Organic Fluorescent Dyes
Authors: Jiang Rui , Yang En‐lai , Lin Zhen‐zhen , Wang Xu‐dong
Published: December 2022

Quenching singlet oxygen is the key to improve photostability of fluorescent dyes. We have systematically studied the capability of a new singlet oxygen quencher, DABCOnium (an alkylated derivative of 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2] octane) on removing singlet oxygen. Results showed that DABCOnium can significantly enhancing photostability of fluorescent thin films for more than 4.3 times compared with that without DABCOnium. After 2 hours of continuous irradiation, fluorescent film doped with DABCOnium retained 90 % of its original fluorescence intensity, which paves a new way in designing high performance singlet oxygen quenchers.
Market update: Sixty years of change in Papua New Guineaʼs fresh food marketplaces
Authors: Sharp Timothy L. M. , Busse Mark , Bourke R. Michael
Published: December 2022

Open‐air marketplaces are vital to food security, livelihoods, and the national economy in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Over the past 60 years, rapid growth of urban populations, changes in global commodity prices, and the decline in value of the PNG currency have stimulated demand for domestic fresh food. Selling fresh food in marketplaces has also become an attractive way to earn money for rural producers, whose returns on labour on their export crops have declined, and for urban residents struggling to make a living. This in turn has led to significant changes in PNGʼs marketplaces: spatial and temporal changes, changes in what is bought and sold, changes in who is selling, and changes in how food is transacted. In this paper, we bring together research on PNGʼs marketplaces from between 1961 and 2022 to document these changes and their causes, alongside important continuities, and to examine the implications and substantial gaps in our knowledge.
An integrated spatial approach to archaeological prospection using GIS and pedestrian survey data at Tell Abu Shusha, Israel
Authors: Price Seth J. , Adams Matthew J. , Tepper Yotam
Published: December 2022

Geographic information systems (GIS) methods, combined with airborne remote sensing, enable collection of complex spatial datasets across broad regional areas. This article explores the use of GIS techniques for fast collection, processing and analysis of pedestrian survey data. This approach is used at Tell Abu Shusha, a multiperiod site in the Jezreel Valley of northern Israel. Surface survey of this tell and the surrounding region, conducted by the Jezreel Valley Regional Project during 2017, documented extensive visible remains of settlement features as well as the ruins of the Ottoman era village of Abu Shusha. Using this data, the potential for existing spatial analytical techniques to be modified and improved through modern processing capabilities is shown. Kolmogorov–Smirnov nonparametric tests, pure locational (k‐means) and unconstrained clustering methods were applied to the field walking survey data, showing evidence of feature clustering at multiple scales as well as environmental patterning in where features are located. Results demonstrate that these approaches increase the speed and accuracy of pedestrian survey data collection and that the modification of these analytical techniques makes them more robust than before, allowing for the identification of meaningful large‐scale spatial patterns.
Gamma‐ray production in supermassive black hole binary OJ 287
Authors: Sinitsyna Vera G. , Sinitsyna Vera Y. , Borisov S.
Published: December 2022

OJ 287 is one of the most studied BL Lac objects with very long optical measurements whose spectrum has been well measured through radio to X‐ray band. The most outstanding characteristic of OJ 287 is its 12‐year period, which is discovered in the optical range and has also been confirmed in the X‐ray band. OJ 287 is supposed to be a binary black hole system in which a secondary black hole passes the accretion disk of the primary black hole and produces two impact flashes per period. It has also been proposed to be a GeV–TeV source. Observations of OJ 287 in the GeV–TeV energy range reveal the variable γ‐ray connected with the flare activity of this object. The spectral energy distributions of blazars consist of two broad peaks. The first, lower frequency peak is due to the synchrotron emissions of relativistic electrons in the jet. Leptonic and hadronic emission mechanisms are considered to describe the second, higher frequency spectrum part. The inverse Compton emissions of the same electrons (synchrotron self‐Compton model) or combined with an external Compton mechanism are considered in the leptonic scenario. The last one supposes the existence of the external to jet photon cloud. The high‐energy spectrum part is also supposed to be generated due to the acceleration of the cosmic ray hadrons in shock produced by outflow, which expands and then collides with the wind of the primary black hole. The detection of GeV–TeV energy fluxes can help find the parameters of the configuration of the two‐black hole system.
Origin of emission in TeV J2032 + 4130 objects of unresolved nature
Authors: Sinitsyna Vera G. , Sinitsyna Vera Yu. , Borisov Sergei S. , Mirzafatikhov Rim M. , Balygin Kirill A. , Klimov Anatolii I. , Ostashev Igor E. , Moseiko Nikolai I.
Published: December 2022

Cygnus Region contains many objects that are bright in all wavelengths, including one of the most powerful active star formation regions: Cyg OB2, pulsars, and supernova remnants. Some of the sources have been detected at high and very high energies. One of them was discovered due to the proximity to well‐known microquasar Cyg X‐3. It is an object TeV J2032 + 4130. This object is still of unresolved nature and is being intensively studied in different energy ranges. Numerous X‐ray point sources and diffuse X‐ray emission regions were found within the TeV J2032 + 4130 region by Chandra and Suzaku. Intensities detected in X‐rays from these regions may favor a scenario with the dominantly nucleonic, not electronic origin of TeV emission. The results of the 20‐year observations of TeV J2032 + 4130 object by the SHALON experiment are presented. Collected experimental data on fluxes, spectrum shape, and morphology of TeV J2032 + 413 can help determine an object nature.
β‐Catenin‐treated peptides effectively inhibit the proliferation of colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Hong‐lin , Li Yue‐xi , Liu Xing‐yun , Cheng Niu‐liang , Niu Bo , Yan Shao‐qi , Feng Hui‐min , Liu Hai‐lin
Published: December 2022

To verify the inhibitory mechanism of β‐catenin‐designed peptides in colorectal cancer(CRC) tumors, the following experiments were performed. In vitro colony formation, Transwell assays, and flow cytometry were performed to assess the biological effects of designed peptides (F18KD, F20A4‐7k, F20A4‐10k, and F20A3‐9k + F20A4‐10k + F20A5‐9k) in HT‐29 cells. In vivo xenograft experiments were performed and treated with peptides. Next, tumors were subjected to Hematoxylin and eosin staining (HE), immunohistochemical, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining assays to evaluate the inhibitory effect of peptides on tumors. β‐Catenin levels were quantified via western blotting (WB) and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and β‐catenin was located using confocal laser scanning microscopy. T‐cell factor‐4 (TCF‐4), C‐myc, and CCND1 levels were quantified via WB. Results were obtained as following. First, the peptides reduced viability, migration, and invasion; promoted apoptosis; and stabilized the S phase of HT‐29 cells. Second, peptides suppressed tumor growth and downregulated the expression of CD34, vascular endothelial growth factor, and β‐catenin in tumors. Furthermore, we found that peptides downregulated β‐catenin expression in both the cytoplasm and nucleus; TCF‐4, C‐myc, and CCND1 expression was also downregulated. Notably, β‐catenin‐targeting peptides had a better inhibitory effect on CRC than non‐β‐catenin‐target peptides, and a combination of peptides exerted a more potent inhibitory effect on CRC than single peptides. It suggested that β‐Catenin‐targeting peptides promote apoptosis in CRC tumors by inhibiting activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.
Alcohol, gender, and violence: Factors influencing blame for partner aggression
Authors: Ross Jody M. , Davis Jedidiah
Published: December 2022

Alcohol use has been associated with intimate partner violence (IPV) and reduced perpetrator blameworthiness, but this finding is not universal. Researchers examining alcohol and IPV‐related blame often utilize vignettes depicting perpetrators who are sober and compare this to perpetrators depicted as more or less intoxicated. In this study, participants read one of three vignettes depicting male‐to‐female physical IPV. We compared participants' blame attributions across three conditions: perpetrator sober, perpetrator intoxicated‐infrequent drinker, and perpetrator intoxicated‐frequent drinker. Alcohol did not mitigate perpetrator blameworthiness for the assault; however, only the intoxicated‐frequent drinker was rated as more blameworthy for his violence than the sober perpetrator. Participants also reported their own IPV perpetration, drinking behaviors, and gender role beliefs. Traditional gender role beliefs and a history of IPV perpetration were associated with shifting some of the blame onto the victim, and this was true for both men and women, especially when the perpetrator was described as a frequent drinker. Researchers should consider whether their alcohol vignettes might depict a behavior as reflecting the situation or the drinker's character, as this may impact their results. Furthermore, different observer characteristics may differentially predict blame attribution.
Causal associations between gastroesophageal reflux disease and lung cancer risk: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Lin , Ren Qiaoya , Zheng Qian , Bai Yuju , He Sisi , Zhang Yu , Ma Hu
Published: December 2022

Background

Observational epidemiological studies suggest that lung cancer risk may be raised by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, the causal relationship between them remains unknown. Our study performed the two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to examine the causal relationship between GERD and lung cancer.

Methods

Instrument variables were found to be independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that were highly linked with GERD (n = 129,080). Summary data from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) data were used to determine outcomes for lung cancer (n = 11,348), squamous cell lung cancer (LUSC), and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). In this study, three MR statistical techniques (inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR‐Egger, and weighted median) were used to examine the potential causative relationship between GERD and the risk of lung cancer. Cochran's Q test, MR‐Egger intercept test, leave‐one‐out analysis, and the funnel plot were all used in sensitivity analyses.

Results

The main IVW method revealed that GERD substantially increased the risk of lung cancer [odds ratio (OR) = 1.37; 95% CI 1.16–1.63, p = 0. 0003], which was also supported by weighted median and MR‐Egger analyses. Using IVW estimate, similar causal relationships were also observed between GERD and LUSC (OR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.26–1.93, p = 5.35 × 10−5) and LUAD (OR = 1.45; 95% CI 1.09–1.93, p = 0.01). Although potential heterogeneity was observed in some studies, random effect IVW was not violated by the heterogeneity, indicating that the causal effect was robust.

Conclusion

GERD was positively associated with the risk of lung cancer, for LUSC and LUAD. This study shed light on a new direction for prevent strategy of lung cancer and therapeutic perspectives in patients with GERD.
A New Ceramide from Cissus Aralioides Baker (Vitaceae) and its Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Nago Romeo Desire T. , Simo Mpetga James D. , Tamokou Jean‐De‐Dieu , Tanemossu Fobofou Serge A. , Mbahbou Bitchagno Gabin T. , Wessjohann Ludger A. , Tene Mathieu , Silvere Ngouela Augustin
Published: December 2022

Purification through repeated column chromatography over silica gel and Sephadex LH‐20 of the ethanol extract of the stems of Cissus aralioides (Baker) Planch. resulted in the isolation of a new ceramide, aralioidamide A (1), along with five known compounds (2–6). Their structures were determined by the extensive analyses of their spectroscopic (1D and 2D NMR) and spectrometric data, and comparison with those reported in the literature. Aralioidamide A (1) displayed weak antibacterial activity (MIC=256 μg/mL) against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Shigella flexneri and was inactive (MIC>256 μg/mL) against the tested fungi.
Staggered board, social capital and sustainability
Authors: Likitapiwat Tanakorn , Treepongkaruna Sirimon
Published: December 2022

Maintaining good relationships with internal and external stakeholders can help companies gain competitive advantages and mitigate risks associated with social factors. However, building social capital is not an easy task, as it requires management to prioritize long‐term goals over short‐term gains. The board of directors is expected to ensure that management maximizes shareholders' value, commits to strengthening its relationship with stakeholders, and engages in socially responsible activities. These expectations depend heavily on the quality and effectiveness of the board. Certain board characteristics may impede its ability to drive long‐term vision or create good stakeholder relationships, leading to a decline in the company's social capital. In this paper, we analyze board characteristics of publicly listed US firms, focusing on staggered boards, and find evidence supporting the agency theory that staggered boards adversely affect firms' social capital. To ensure the robustness of our analysis, we conduct additional analyses including propensity score matching, entropy balancing, and instrumental‐variable analysis.
A novel spectrum handoff switching decision scheme for improved performance of secondary users in cognitive radio network
Authors: Dey Sudipta , Saha Misra Iti
Published: December 2022

Spectrum handoff (SH) in the cognitive radio network (CRN) is considered as a key challenging area to enhance the performance of secondary users (SUs) in CRN. If the primary user is detected, the SU may pause and stay on the same channel or may perform SH to another idle channel. An accurate and precise handoff decision improves the overall throughput and quality of experience of end‐users. In this paper, we introduce a new SH algorithm and continuous short‐sensing strategy to improve the overall throughput of SUs. In addition, we have derived the minimum length of the target channel sequence based on network‐specific parameters like desired call dropping probability. Further, an optimum channel search time is obtained to minimize the handoff delay. The simulation result shows that the proposed scheme improves the overall throughput of CRN, and the mean opinion score of different video applications increases by 10%, 4.6%, and 1% for rapid motion, gentle walk, and slight motion types of video applications. In the case of VoIP applications, the maximum simultaneous call is improved by 2 times in the case of G.711, 1.72 times in the case of G.729, and 1.66 times in the case of iLBC.
Stein‐Betonmörtel‐Interaktion bei vermörtelten Steinstützkörpern aus Naturstein
Authors: Voit Klaus , Hron Johannes , Frei Gerhard , Peter Mathias , Reisenhofer Felix , Rottensteiner Josef , Zeman Oliver
Published: December 2022

Stütz‐ und Schutzkonstruktionen aus Naturstein zählen zu Standardbauwerken im Straßen‐ und Eisenbahnbau sowie im angrenzenden Ingenieurbau. Dabei wird zwischen unvermörtelten und vermörtelten Steinkonstruktionen unterschieden, wobei bei Letzteren die Fugenausbildung mittels Betonmörtel erfolgt. Diese Ausbildung der Fuge dient zur Verbesserung der Kraftübertragung zwischen den einzelnen Steinen, führt zu einer Reduzierung von Bauwerksverformungen und bringt gegenüber unvermörtelten Konstruktionen insgesamt eine Erhöhung der inneren Standsicherheit mit sich. Durch die Interaktion zwischen Stein und Betonmörtel können Schubkräfte übertragen bzw. aufgenommen werden, die insbesondere einem auftretenden Erddruck entgegenwirken: die Scherparameter Kohäsion (Haftfestigkeit) und Reibungswinkel bauen einen Widerstand gegen mögliche Schubbeanspruchung auf und spielen eine wesentliche Rolle hinsichtlich der Tragfähigkeit derartiger Bauwerke. In dieser Studie wird versucht, mittels experimenteller Laborversuche eine quantitative Abschätzung von Werten für Haftfestigkeit und Reibungswinkel abzuleiten. Darüber hinaus sollen die Eigenschaften von üblicherweise verwendeten Betonmörteln erfasst werden. Übergeordnetes Ziel ist es, Rückschlüsse auf die innere Stabilität derartiger Steinstützkörper zu ziehen und so Grundlagen für die Bemessung von Steinstützkörpern darzulegen.
Prognostic factors of readmission and mortality after first heart failure hospitalization: results from EPICAL2 cohort
Authors: Varlot Jeanne , Popovic Batric , Soudant Marc , Thilly Nathalie , Agrinier Nelly
Published: December 2022

Aims

We aimed to identify prognostic individual factors in patients with first acute heart failure (HF) hospitalization, considering both death and readmission as part of the natural history of HF.

Methods and results

We used data from the observational, prospective, multicentre EPICAL2 cohort study from which we selected incident cases of acute HF alive at discharge. We relied on an illness‐death model to identify prognostic factors on first readmission and on mortality before and after readmission. In 451 patients hospitalized for first acute HF, we observed within the year after discharge, 23 (5.1%) deaths before readmission and 270 (59.9%) first readmissions, of which 60 (22.2%) were followed by death of any cause. First, among patient characteristics, only Charlson index ≥ 8 was associated with first readmission [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.1–2.3), P = 0.011]. Second, Charlson index ≥ 8 [aHR = 4.2, 95% CI (1.2–14.8), P = 0.025], low blood pressure (BP) [aHR = 12.2, 95% CI (1.9–79.6), P = 0.009], high BP [aHR = 6.9, 95% CI (1.3–36.4), P = 0.023], and prescription of recommended dual or triple HF therapy at index discharge [aHR = 0.2, 95% CI (0.1–0.7), P = 0.014] were associated with mortality before any readmission. Third, Charlson index ≥ 8 [aHR = 2.4, 95% CI (1.1–5.6), P = 0.037] and the time to first readmission (per 30 days additional) [aHR = 1.2; 95% CI (1.1–1.4), P = 0.007] were associated with mortality after readmission.

Conclusions

Regardless of the prognostic state considered, we showed that comorbidities are of critical prognostic value in a real‐world cohort of incident HF cases. This argues in favour of multidisciplinary care in HF.
Amniotic fluid embolism‐induced cardiopulmonary collapse successfully treated with combination VA‐ECMO and Impella CP
Authors: Golzarian Hafez , Mariam Alaha , Shah Sidra R. , Pasley Benjamin A. , Haq Syed H. , Edgerton Anne R. , Scherger William E. , Stallkamp Vanessa L. , Patel Dennis , Laird Amanda , Cole William C. , Patel Sandeep M.
Published: December 2022

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare but potentially fatal complication of pregnancy. Prompt and aggressive resuscitative strategies are crucial in promoting survivability. We present a case of AFE resulting in cardiopulmonary collapse and subsequent cardiac arrest where we were able to safely deliver the baby and resuscitate the mother with veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and Impella CP—a novel combination known as ECPELLA. We discuss the implications of this approach as a more efficacious strategy in resuscitating AFE‐induced cardiogenic shock and arrest.
Clonal composition and persistence of antigen‐specific circulating T follicular helper cells
Authors: Hu Mengyun , Notarbartolo Samuele , Foglierini Mathilde , Jovic Sandra , Mele Federico , Jarrossay David , Lanzavecchia Antonio , Cassotta Antonino , Sallusto Federica
Published: December 2022

T follicular helper (TFH) cells play an essential role in promoting B cell responses and antibody affinity maturation in germinal centers (GC). A subset of memory CD4+ T cells expressing the chemokine receptor CXCR5 has been described in human blood as phenotypically and clonally related to GC TFH cells. However, the antigen specificity and relationship of these circulating TFH (cTFH) cells with other memory CD4+ T cells remain poorly defined. Combining antigenic stimulation and T cell receptor (TCR) Vβ sequencing, we found T cells specific to tetanus toxoid (TT), influenza vaccine (Flu), or Candida albicans (C.alb) in both cTFH and non‐cTFH subsets, although with different frequencies and effector functions. Interestingly, cTFH and non‐cTFH cells specific for C.alb or TT had a largely overlapping TCR Vβ repertoire while the repertoire of Flu‐specific cTFH and non‐cTFH cells was distinct. Furthermore, Flu‐specific but not C.alb‐specific PD‐1+ cTFH cells had a “GC TFH‐like” phenotype, with overexpression of IL21, CXCL13, and BCL6. Longitudinal analysis of serial blood donations showed that Flu‐specific cTFH and non‐cTFH cells persisted as stable repertoires for years. Collectively, our study provides insights on the relationship of cTFH with non‐cTFH cells and on the heterogeneity and persistence of antigen‐specific human cTFH cells.
Intersecting views of gully erosion in South Africa
Authors: Olivier George , Van De Wiel Marco J. , De Clercq Willem P.
Published: December 2022

Gully erosion is an environmental problem recognized as one of the worst land degradation processes worldwide. Insight into regional gully perturbations is required to combat the serious on‐ and off‐site impacts of gullying on a catchment management scale. In response, we intersect different perspectives on gully erosion‐specific views in South Africa (SA), a country that exhibits various physiographic properties and spans 1.22 million km2. While the debate surrounding gully origin continues, there is consensus that anthropogenic activities are a major contemporary driver. The anthropogenic impact caused gullying to transcend climatic, geomorphic, and land‐use boundaries, although it becomes more prominent in central to eastern SA. Soil erodibility plays a crucial role in what extent of gully erosion severity is attained from human impact, contributing to the east–west imbalance of erosion in SA. Soil erosion rates from gullying and badlands are limited but suggest that it ranges between 30 and 123 t ha−1 yr−1 in the more prominent areas. These soil loss rates are comparable to global rates where gullying is concerned; moreover, they are up to four orders of magnitude higher than the estimated baseline erosion rate. On a national scale, the complexity of gullying is evident from the different temporal timings of (re)activation or stabilizing and different evolution rates. Continued efforts are required to understand the intricate interplay of human activities, climate, and preconditions determining soil erodibility. In SA, more medium‐ to long‐term studies are required to understand better how changing control factors affect gully evolution. More research is needed to implement and appraise mitigation measures, especially using indigenous knowledge. Establishing (semi)‐automated mapping procedures would aid in gully monitoring and assessing the effectiveness of implemented mitigation measures. More urgently, the expected changes in climate and land‐use necessitate further research on how environmental change affects short‐term gully erosion dynamics.
Kir4.1 is specifically expressed and active in non‐myelinating Schwann cells
Authors: Procacci Nicole M. , Hastings Robert Louis , Aziz Aamir A. , Christiansen Nina M. , Zhao Jie , DeAngeli Claire , LeBlanc Normand , Notterpek Lucia , Valdez Gregorio , Gould Thomas W.
Published: December 2022

Non‐myelinating Schwann cells (NMSC) play important roles in peripheral nervous system formation and function. However, the molecular identity of these cells remains poorly defined. We provide evidence that Kir4.1, an inward‐rectifying K+ channel encoded by the KCNJ10 gene, is specifically expressed and active in NMSC. Immunostaining revealed that Kir4.1 is present in terminal/perisynaptic SCs (TPSC), synaptic glia at neuromuscular junctions (NMJ), but not in myelinating SCs (MSC) of adult mice. To further examine the expression pattern of Kir4.1, we generated BAC transgenic Kir4.1‐CreERT2 mice and crossed them to the tdTomato reporter line. Activation of CreERT2 with tamoxifen after the completion of myelination onset led to robust expression of tdTomato in NMSC, including Remak Schwann cells (RSC) along peripheral nerves and TPSC, but not in MSC. In contrast, activating CreERT2 before and during the onset of myelination led to tdTomato expression in NMSC and MSC. These observations suggest that immature SC express Kir4.1, and its expression is then downregulated selectively in myelin‐forming SC. In support, we found that while activating CreERT2 induces tdTomato expression in immature SC, it fails to induce tdTomato in MSC associated with sensory axons in culture. NMSC derived from neonatal sciatic nerve were shown to express Kir4.1 and exhibit barium‐sensitive inwardly rectifying macroscopic K+ currents. Thus, this study identified Kir4.1 as a potential modulator of immature SC and NMSC function. Additionally, it established a novel transgenic mouse line to introduce or delete genes in NMSC.
Surface integrity modification ofCoCrMoalloy by deep rolling in combination with sub‐zero cooling as potential implant application
Authors: Döring Joachim , Basten Stephan , Ecke Martin , Herbster Maria , Kirsch Benjamin , Halle Thorsten , Lohmann Christoph H. , Bertrand Jessica , Aurich Jan
Published: December 2022

Alloys made of CoCrMo are well established as implants materials since decades in orthopedic surgery. The good mechanical properties, biocompatibility and especially the corrosion resistance are important rationales for the use of these alloys. Nevertheless, retrieved implants from revision surgery showed the occurrence of abrasion and corrosion. The wear mechanisms and the occurring corrosion processes might be reduced with a functionalization of the surface. The hexagonal phase of the cobalt chromium matrix plays an important role in the surface functionalization. It can be specifically transformed and set during the manufacturing process. One possibility for the induction of the transformation is the use of a deep rolling process in combination with a novel “sub‐zero” cooling strategy during machining. The influence of force and temperature during the deep rolling process on the formation of the hexagonal Co‐phase is examined in this study. The results from the targeted setting of the hexagonal Co‐phase in the subsurface are shown. For this purpose, EBSD studies have been carried out to detect and quantify the proportion of Co‐hex phase in the subsurface of the modified alloys. To analyze the mechanical properties, we measured the residual stress and hardness in the near surface layer under conditions close to the application. Furthermore, we performed biological tests to show a potential influence of the modification on the biocompatibility when using the sub‐zero cooling approach. We observed no negative effect on the osteoblastic cell line which attached similarly to all tested surfaces. The investigations provide first insights into the potential use of “sub‐zero” cooling in modifying orthopedic implant materials, but also the respective limits with regard to the surface functionalization. Deep rolling in combination with an innovative cooling strategy has a great potential to improve the mechanical properties of CoCr28Mo6 wrought alloy, by subsurface hardening and phase transformation.