bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of seabird presence and seasonality on ground‐active spider communities across temperate islands
Authors: Pascoe Penelope , Houghton Melissa , Jones Holly P. , Weldrick Christine , Trebilco Rowan , Shaw Justine
Published: December 2022

Seabirds influence island ecosystems through nutrient additions and physical disturbance. These influences can have opposing effects on an island's invertebrate predator populations. Spiders (order: Araneae) are an important predator in many terrestrial island ecosystems, yet little is known about how seabird presence influences spider communities at the intraisland scale, or how they respond to seasonality in seabird colony attendance.We investigated the effects of seabird presence and seasonality on ground‐active spider community structure (activity‐density, family‐level richness, age class, and sex structure) and composition at the family‐level across five short‐tailed shearwater breeding islands around south‐eastern Tasmania, Australia. Using 75 pitfall traps (15 per island), spiders were collected inside, near, and outside seabird colonies on each island, at five different stages of the short‐tailed shearwater breeding cycle over a year. Pitfall traps were deployed for a total of 2674 days, capturing 1592 spiders from 26 families with Linyphiidae and Lycosidae the most common. Spider activity‐density was generally greater inside than outside seabird colonies, while family‐level richness was generally higher outside seabird colonies. For these islands, seabird breeding stage did not affect activity‐densities, but there were some seasonal changes in age class and sex structures with more adult males captured during winter. Our results provide some of the first insights into the spatial and temporal influences seabirds have on spider communities. We also provide some of the first records of spider family occurrences for south‐eastern Tasmanian islands, which will provide an important baseline for assessing future change.
Drone exploration of bat echolocation: A UAV‐borne multimicrophone array to study bat echolocation
Authors: Jespersen Christian , Docherty David , Hallam John , Albertsen Carsten , Jakobsen Lasse
Published: December 2022

Multimicrophone array techniques offer crucial insight into bat echolocation, yet they severely undersample the environments bats operate in as they are limited in geographic placement and mobility. UAVs are excellent candidates to greatly increase the environments in which such arrays can be deployed, but the impact of UAV noise on recording quality and the UAV's behavioral impact on the bats may affect usability. We developed a UAV‐borne multimicrophone setup capable of recording bat echolocation across diverse environments. We quantify and mitigate the impact of UAV noise on the recording setup and test the recording capability of the array by recording four common Danish bat species: Pipistrellus pygmaeus, Myotis daubentonii, Eptesicus serotinus, and Nyctalus noctula. The UAV produces substantial noise at ultrasonic frequencies relevant to many bat species. However, suspending the array 30 m below the UAV attenuates the noise to levels below the self‐noise of our recording system at 20 kHz and above, and we successfully record and acoustically localize all four bat species. The behavioral impact of the UAV is minimal as all four species approached the array to within 1 m and all emitted recordable feeding buzzes. UAV‐borne multimicrophone arrays will allow us to quantify bat echolocation in hitherto unexplored habitats and provide crucial insight into how bats operate their sonar across their entire natural habitat.
P‐wave durations from automated electrocardiogram analysis to predict atrial fibrillation and mortality in heart failure
Authors: Zhou Jiandong , Li Andrew , Tan Martin , Lam Matthew Chung Yan , Hung Lok Tin , Siu Ronald Wing Hei , Lee Sharen , Lakhani Ishan , Chan Jeffrey Shi Kai , Bin Waleed Khalid , Liu Tong , Jeevaratnam Kamalan , Zhang Qingpeng , Tse Gary
Published: December 2022

Background

P‐wave indices have been used to predict incident atrial fibrillation (AF), stroke, and mortality. However, such indices derived from automated ECG measurements have not been explored for their predictive values in heart failure (HF). We investigated whether automated P‐wave indices can predict adverse outcomes in HF.

Methods

This study included consecutive Chinese patients admitted to a single tertiary centre, presenting with HF but without prior AF, and with at least one baseline ECG, between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2016, with last follow‐up of 31 December 2019.

Results

A total of 2718 patients were included [median age: 77.4, interquartile range (IQR): (66.9–84.3) years; 47.9 males]. After a median follow‐up of 4.8 years (IQR: 1.9–9.0 years), 1150 patients developed AF (8.8/year), 339 developed stroke (2.6/year), 563 developed cardiovascular mortality (4.3/year), and 1972 had all‐cause mortality (15.1/year). Compared with 101–120 ms as a reference, maximum P‐wave durations predicted new‐onset AF at ≤90 ms [HR: 1.17(1.11, 1.50), P < 0.01], 131–140 ms [HR: 1.29(1.09, 1.54), P < 0.001], and ≥141 ms [HR: 1.52(1.32, 1.75), P < 0.001]. Similarly, they predicted cardiovascular mortality at ≤90 ms [HR: 1.50(1.08, 2.06), P < 0.001] or ≥141 ms [HR: 1.18(1.15, 1.45), P < 0.001], and all‐cause mortality at ≤90 ms [HR: 1.26(1.04, 1.51), P < 0.001], 131–140 ms [HR: 1.15(1.01, 1.32), P < 0.01], and ≥141 ms [HR: 1.31(1.18, 1.46), P < 0.001]. These remained significant after adjusting for significant demographics, past co‐morbidities, P‐wave dispersion, and maximum P‐wave amplitude.

Conclusions

Extreme values of maximum P‐wave durations (≤90 ms and ≥141 ms) were significant predictors of new‐onset AF, cardiovascular mortality, and all‐cause mortality.
Red cell distribution width as a prognosticator in patients with heart failure
Authors: Kim Minkwan , Lee Chan Joo , Kang Hye‐Jin , Son Nak‐Hoon , Bae SungA , Seo Jiwon , Oh Jaewon , Rim Se‐Joong , Jung In Hyun , Choi Eui‐Young , Kang Seok‐Min
Published: December 2022

Aims

Increased red cell distribution width (RDW) is a poor prognostic factor in patients with heart failure (HF). However, only a few large‐scale studies have identified the clinical utility of RDW after adjusting for covariates affecting RDW.

Methods and results

From January 2010 to April 2021, we retrospectively enrolled patients diagnosed with HF from three referral hospitals with available RDW data (taken within 3 months of HF diagnosis) using an integrated clinical data system. Patients with an ejection fraction (EF) < 50% or HFA‐PEFF (Heart Failure Association Pre‐test assessment, Echocardiography and natriuretic peptide, Functional testing, Final aetiology) score ≥ 2 without severe valvular heart disease or coronary revascularization were enrolled. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality, and cardiovascular mortality was also collected. Multivariable Cox regression analysis and stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) were used to identify any association between RDW and all‐cause death by balancing covariates or compounding factors. The global χ2 score was calculated and discrimination analysis was performed to evaluate the incremental value of RDW in predicting prognosis. Among the 6599 participants enrolled in this study, 1256 (19.0%) cases of all‐cause death occurred, and the median duration of follow‐up was 887 (interquartile range 351–1589) days. Elevated RDW at the initial diagnosis was associated with poor prognosis [cumulative incidence: 819 (30.2%) vs. 437 (11.2%), relative risk 1.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.51–1.67, log‐rank P < 0.001]. Multivariable Cox analysis showed that elevated RDW was a poor prognostic factor for the primary endpoint [hazard ratio (HR) 1.11, 95% CI 1.06–1.16, P < 0.001], independent of clinical risk factors, N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), and EF, which was concordant with the stabilized IPTW (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.10–1.49, P < 0.001). Adding RDW to model composed of traditional risk factors, NT‐proBNP, and echocardiographic parameters showed incremental prognostic value for predicting poor prognosis (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.799–0.826; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Increased RDW at the time of diagnosis is associated with poor prognosis in patients with HF, independent of clinical risk factors, such as NT‐proBNP, and echocardiographic parameters. Therefore, RDW may aid in the management of these patients beyond traditional risk factors.
How does age affect outcomes after left ventricular assist device implantation: results from the PCHF‐VAD registry
Authors: Radhoe Sumant P. , Veenis Jesse F. , Jakus Nina , Timmermans Philippe , Pouleur Anne‐Catherine , Rubís Pawel , Van Craenenbroeck Emeline M. , Gaizauskas Edvinas , Barge‐Caballero Eduardo , Paolillo Stefania , Grundmann Sebastian , D'Amario Domenico , Braun Oscar Ö. , Gkouziouta Aggeliki , Planinc Ivo , Samardzic Jure , Meyns Bart , Droogne Walter , Wierzbicki Karol , Holcman Katarzyna , Flammer Andreas J. , Gasparovic Hrvoje , Biocina Bojan , Lund Lars H. , Milicic Davor , Ruschitzka Frank , Cikes Maja , Brugts Jasper J.
Published: December 2022

Aims

Use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) in older patients has increased, and assessing outcomes in older LVAD recipients is important. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate associations between age and outcomes after continuous‐flow LVAD (cf‐LVAD) implantation.

Methods and results

Cf‐LVAD patients from the multicentre European PCHF‐VAD registry were included and categorized into those <50, 50–64, and ≥65 years old. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality. Among secondary outcomes were heart failure (HF) hospitalizations, right ventricular (RV) failure, haemocompatibility score, bleeding events, non‐fatal thromboembolic events, and device‐related infections. Of 562 patients, 184 (32.7%) were <50, 305 (54.3%) were aged 50–64, whereas 73 (13.0%) were ≥65 years old. Median follow‐up was 1.1 years. Patients in the oldest age group were significantly more often designated as destination therapy (DT) candidates (61%). A 10 year increase in age was associated with a significantly higher risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.15–1.57]), intracranial bleeding (HR 1.49, 95% CI [1.10–2.02]), and non‐intracranial bleeding (HR 1.30, 95% CI [1.09–1.56]), which was confirmed by a higher mean haemocompatibility score (1.37 vs. 0.77, oldest vs. youngest groups, respectively, P = 0.033). Older patients suffered from less device‐related infections requiring systemic antibiotics. No age‐related differences were observed in HF‐related hospitalizations, ventricular arrhythmias, pump thrombosis, non‐fatal thromboembolic events, or RV failure.

Conclusions

In the PCHF‐VAD registry, higher age was associated with increased risk of mortality, and especially with increased risk of major bleeding, which is particularly relevant for the DT population. The risks of HF hospitalizations, pump thrombosis, ventricular arrhythmia, or RV failure were comparable. Strikingly, older patients had less device‐related infections.
Mixed‐methods evaluation of a multifaceted heart failure intervention in general practice: the OSCAR‐HF pilot study
Authors: Smeets Miek , Raat Willem , Aertgeerts Bert , Penders Joris , Vercammen Jan , Droogne Walter , Mullens Wilfried , Janssens Stefan , Vaes Bert
Published: December 2022

Aims

Heart failure (HF) is an important health problem for which multidisciplinary care is recommended, yet few studies involve primary care practitioners in the multidisciplinary management of HF. We set up a multifaceted prospective observational trial, OSCAR‐HF, piloting audit and feedback, natriuretic peptide testing at the point of care, and the assistance of a specialist HF nurse in primary care. The aim was to optimize HF care in general practice.

Methods and results

This is an analysis at 6 month follow‐up of the study interventions of the OSCAR‐HF pilot study, a nonrandomized, noncontrolled prospective observational trial conducted in eight Belgian general practices [51 general practitioners (GPs)]. Patients who were assessed by their GP to have HF constituted the OSCAR‐HF study population. We used descriptive statistics and mixed‐effects modelling for the quantitative analysis and thematic analysis of the focus group interviews. There was a 10.2% increase in the registered HF population after 6 months of follow‐up (n = 593) compared with baseline (n = 538) and a 27% increase in objectified HF diagnoses (baseline n = 359 to 456 at T6 M). Natriuretic peptide testing (with or without referral) accounted for 54% (n = 60/111) of the newly registered HF diagnoses. There was no difference in the proportion of patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction who received their target dosage of renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors or beta‐blockers at 6 months compared with baseline (P = 0.9). Patients who received an HF nurse intervention (n = 53) had significantly worse quality of life at baseline [difference in Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) score 9.2 points; 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.0, 14] and had a significantly greater improvement in quality‐of‐life scores at the 6 month follow‐up [change in MLHFQ score −9.8 points; 95% CI −15, −4.5] than patients without an HF nurse intervention. GPs found audit and feedback valuable but time intensive. Natriuretic peptides were useful, but the point‐of‐care test was impractical, and the assistance of an HF nurse was a useful addition to routine HF care.

Conclusions

The use of audit and feedback combined with natriuretic peptide testing was a successful strategy to increase the number of registered and objectified HF diagnoses at 6 months. GPs and HF nurses selected patients with worse quality‐of‐life scores at baseline for the HF nurse intervention, which led to a significantly greater improvement in quality‐of‐life scores at the 6 month follow‐up compared with patients without an HF nurse intervention. The interventions were deemed feasible and useful by the participating GPs with some specific remarks that can be used for optimization.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02905786), registered on 14 September 2016 at https://clinicaltrials.gov/.
ACC/AHA/HFSA 2022 and ESC 2021 guidelines on heart failure comparison
Authors: Behnoush Amir Hossein , Khalaji Amirmohammad , Naderi Nasim , Ashraf Haleh , von Haehling Stephan
Published: December 2022

The 2022 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/Heart Failure Society of America (ACC/AHA/HFSA) and the 2021 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) both provide evidence‐based guides for the diagnosis and treatment of heart failure (HF). In this review, we aimed to compare recommendations suggested by these guidelines highlighting the differences and latest evidence mentioned in each of the guidelines. While the staging of HF depends on left ventricular ejection fraction, the Universal Definition of HF, suggested in 2021, is described in 2022 ACC/AHA/HFSA guidelines. Both guidelines recommend invasive and non‐invasive tests to diagnose. Despite being identical in the backbone, some differences exist in medical therapy and devices, which can be partially attributed to the recent trials published that are presented in the American guidelines. The recommendation of implantable cardioverter defibrillator for prevention in HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients, made by ACC/AHA/HFSA guidelines, is among the bold differences. It seems that ACC/AHA/HFSA guidelines emphasize the quality of life, cost‐effectiveness, and optimization of care given to patients. On the other hand, the ESC guidelines provide recommendations for certain comorbidities. This comparison can guide clinicians in choosing the proper approach for their own settings and the writing committees in addressing the differences in order to have better consistency in future guidelines.
Differences in Oxidative Stability, Sensory Properties, and Volatile Compounds of Pepper Aromatized Sunflower Oils Prepared by Different Methods during Accelerated Storage
Authors: Yang Haoduo , Dong Ying , Wang Dongying , Wang Xuede
Published: December 2022

The study aims to compare the differences in the oxidative stability, sensory properties, and volatile compounds during accelerated storage of pepper aromatized sunflower oil (PASO) samples prepared by maceration method (PASO‐M), co‐pressing method (PASO‐C), and direct addition method (PASO‐A), respectively. The results exhibit that their oxidative stability is in the relative order: PASO‐A > PASO‐C > PASO‐M. Meanwhile, the PASO‐A sample is the most preferable aromatized sunflower oil by consumers according to sensory analysis. In addition, a total of 83 volatile compounds are identified in the three PASO samples during the storage, and the principal component analysis (PCA) shows that their volatile compounds are quite different at the initial stage of the storage. Still, they are similar among each other from the middle of storage period. As consequence, the aromatized sunflower oil sample prepared by the direct‐addition method during the storage possesses better oxidative stability and sensory attributes, and there is not much difference among their volatile compounds, indicating that the aromatized sunflower oil prepared by direct‐addition method can be developed as promising aromatized sunflower oil.

Practical applications: This study shows that aromatization increases oxidative stability and sensory properties of sunflower oil. By this way some sunflower oils with special sensory properties are obtained: special smell and taste, special color, etc. These peppers aromatized sunflower oils can be used to increase taste and smell in some dishes. For example, they can be used in some salads and some roast meats to give more taste and color.
Theoretical Study on Chiral Boron Complex‐Promoted Asymmetric Diels‐Alder Cycloadditions
Authors: Georgieva Miglena K. , Santos A. Gil
Published: December 2022

The Diels‐Alder reaction is a very interesting process that has been deeply studied in its achiral version. More recently, in its chiral version, it has also been the focus of many experimental and theoretical reports. Here, we study the Diels‐Alder reaction of 2′‐hydroxychalcones, as dienophiles, with two dienes, catalyzed by chiral organo‐boron Lewis acid complexes. We theoretically evaluate the mechanism that has been empirically proposed in the literature, and we clarify several results that didn't allow the full rationalization of the experimental data. Therefore, we show that similar ligands in the complexes lead to quite different enantioselectivities, due to different steric interactions with the attacking diene. In addition, we also conclude that the low endo/exo selectivities result from two opposite effects in the Diels‐Alder transition states of the endo pathways, which substantially increase their activation energy, reaching values very similar to those calculated for the exo transition state structures.
Bladder cancer tissue‐derived exosomes suppress ferroptosis of T24 bladder cancer cells by transporting miR‐217
Authors: Huang Zhong‐Ming , Wang Hai , Ji Zhi‐Gang
Published: December 2022

It has been reported that miR‐217 can inhibit the oncogenic activity and progression of bladder cancer (BCa) cells, but it has not been explored whether miR‐217 is involved in the regulation of ferroptosis. In the present study, RNA transfection, real‐time PCR, flow cytometry, Western blotting assays, immunofluorescence and ELISA were performed to explore the effects and mechanisms of miR‐217 in BCa tissue‐derived exosomes. We found that extracellular fluid from bladder cancer tissue promoted the growth and miR‐217 expression of T24 cells and inhibited ferroptosis. MiR‐217 was confirmed to inhibit ferroptosis in bladder cancer cells by RNA interference and functional assays. By cell membrane fluorescence probe (CM‐Dil) labeling, inhibiting exosome secretion by GW4689 and exosome extraction, we determined that BCa tissue‐derived exosomes transport miR‐217 into T24 cells. Culture of T24 cells with extracellular fluid after RNA interference showed that exosomes carrying miR‐217 derived from BCa tissues inhibited ferroptosis of T24 cells. We conclude that bladder cancer tissue‐derived exosomes inhibit ferroptosis of T24 bladder cancer cells by transporting miR‐217. The results of our study provide a new insight into the progression of bladder cancer.
Preparation of Microencapsulated Low‐Melting‐Point Sn–Bi Alloy for Latent Heat Storage
Authors: Zhu Chunyu , Liu Renjie , Lu Jiahui , Sheng Nan
Published: December 2022

Low‐melting‐point SnBi alloy is a good phase change material (PCM) with high thermal conductivity and good stability for heat storage over 100 °C, which can be used for waste heat recovery and solar thermal storage. To solve the critical leakage problem and increase the heat transfer area of PCM, the fabrication of microcapsules of SnBi that are encapsulated by the stable SnO2 oxide shell is reported. The microcapsules are prepared by a two‐step method, in which the SnBi alloy microspheres are first treated by hot water or vapor and second heat treated under an oxygen atmosphere. The SnBi@SnO2 microcapsules are well sealed, and can endure a melting–solidification thermal cycle over 100 cycles with good stability. The microcapsules have a melting point of around 139 °C and an enthalpy of around 43 J g−1, similar to the theoretical values of SnBi. The simple preparation method and good thermal properties of the microcapsules ensures their application in heat storage and thermal management.
Ternary Organic Solar Cells: Recent Insight on Structure–Processing–Property–Performance Relationships
Authors: Suthar Rakesh , Dahiya Hemraj , Karak Supravat , Sharma Ganesh D
Published: December 2022

This article presents recent advances in the ternary organic solar cell (TOSC), such as technological interventions from the material design to the device performance, which led to more than 19% power conversion efficiency (PCE). The research and development in TOSCs reported in the past decade have been inspiring and promising in terms of molecular processing to device properties for low‐power devices and building integrated photovoltaics applications. Many of these are still in the early phase, enabling researchers to explore more and flourish. The research community has made numerous efforts to address the different aspects to enhance the efficiency and stability of the TOSCs. Therefore, the objective of this article is to review the recent advances in TOSCs and present a comprehensive discussion in this regard. This review also identifies and suggests the possible outlook for the critical issues associated with TOSCs, along with future perspectives.
Nanometric MnO2 and MnO2‐Graphene Oxide Materials Enabled by a Solvent‐Assisted Synthesis and Their Application in Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Karbak Mehdi , Boujibar Ouassim , Lahmar Sanaa , Ah-lung Guillaume , Autret-Lambert Cecile , Chafik Tarik , Ghamouss Fouad
Published: December 2022

Conventional manganese oxide (MnO2)‐based supercapacitors struggle to achieve theoretical capacitance due to the material's low conductivity and large particle size. Consequently, researchers have improved MnO2's properties by incorporating conductive carbonaceous materials to obtain high‐performance composite materials. Herein, the full process of engineering a MnO2‐graphene oxide (GO) composite and its application as a positive electrode for asymmetric supercapacitors (ASC) is presented. First, GO using a novel gas expansion precursor allowing an efficient chemical exfoliation of pristine graphite is synthesized. Afterward, size‐weakened MnO2 nanoparticles are synthesized and deposited onto the GO sheets by a self‐assembly redox reaction method using different MnO2/GO mass ratios. Multiple characterization methods are used to investigate the textural and structural properties of each material. A general electrochemical characterization is conducted using a three‐electrode cell; therefore, the synthesized MnO2‐GO composite achieves 150 F g−1 at 10 mV s−1. Furthermore, an ASC in an aqueous electrolyte using GO and MnO2 or MnO2‐GO as negative and positive electrodes, respectively, is assembled. The fabricated ASC based on MnO2‐GO composite exhibits a high specific capacitance of 38 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, excellent cycling stability after 36 000 cycles, and a steady electrochemical impedance behavior after 120 h of floating.
REDS: Random ensemble deep spatial prediction
Authors: Daw Ranadeep , Wikle Christopher K.
Published: December 2022

There has been a great deal of recent interest in the development of spatial prediction algorithms for very large datasets and/or prediction domains. These methods have primarily been developed in the spatial statistics community, but there has been growing interest in the machine learning community for such methods, primarily driven by the success of deep Gaussian process regression approaches and deep convolutional neural networks. These methods are often computationally expensive to train and implement and consequently, there has been a resurgence of interest in random projections and deep learning models based on random weights—so called reservoir computing methods. Here, we combine several of these ideas to develop the random ensemble deep spatial (REDS) approach to predict spatial data. The procedure uses random Fourier features as inputs to an extreme learning machine (a deep neural model with random weights), and with calibrated ensembles of outputs from this model based on different random weights, it provides a simple uncertainty quantification. The REDS method is demonstrated on simulated data and on a classic large satellite data set.
Basal ganglia dysplasia and mTORopathy: A potential cause of postoperative seizures in focal cortical dysplasia
Authors: Lee Wei Shern , Macdonald‐Laurs Emma , Stephenson Sarah E M , D'Arcy Colleen , MacGregor Duncan , Leventer Richard J , Maixner Wirginia , Harvey A Simon , Lockhart Paul J
Published: December 2022

Pathogenic somatic MTOR variants in the cerebral cortex are a frequent cause of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD). We describe a child with drug and surgery‐resistant focal epilepsy due to FCD type II who developed progressive enlargement and T2 signal hyperintensity in the ipsilateral caudate and lentiform nuclei. Histopathology of caudate nucleus biopsies showed dysmorphic neurons, similar to those in resected cortex. Genetic analysis of frontal and temporal cortex and caudate nucleus identified a pathogenic somatic MTOR variant [NM_004958.4:c.4375G > C (p.Ala1459Pro)] that was not present in blood‐derived gDNA. The mean variant allele frequency ranged from 0.4% to 3.2% in cerebral cortex and up to 5.4% in the caudate nucleus. The basal ganglia abnormalities suggest more widespread, potentially hemispheric dysplasia in this patient, consistent with the pathogenic variant occurring in early cerebral development. This finding provides a potential explanation for persistent seizures in some patients with seemingly complete resection of FCD or disconnection of a dysplastic hemisphere.
An ensemble clustering method based on consistency cluster consensus approach and MapReduce model
Authors: Liu Chao , Liu Shuai , Osmani Amjad
Published: December 2022

Ensemble clustering is an efficient unsupervised learning technique that has attracted a lot of attention. The purpose of this technique is to aggregate the results of several basic clustering algorithms in order to create a better clustering. This is not only possible, but has been developed with many techniques in recent years. However, there are still challenges such as similarity measure, agreement function and how to implement clustering algorithms. To address these challenges, this article proposes an ensemble clustering algorithm based on the consistency cluster consensus approach and the MapReduce model. In addition, the proposed algorithm is equipped with a new membership similarity measure. The consistency cluster consensus is defined as a new agreement function for the consensus of the results of the basic clustering methods. Besides, the proposed similarity measure consists of two factors: one is cluster similarity and the another is membership similarity. The process of the proposed ensemble clustering method is summarized in four steps. In the first step, partitions are generated by applying a number of individual clustering algorithms to the data. The second step is to convert the primary clusters from the partitions to a binary representation. The third step is to identify the candidate primary clusters for the consensus, where a subset with highest similarity between the clusters is emphasized. In the fourth step, the consistency cluster consensus is performed through a new agreement function. In addition, we use the MapReduce model to implement basic clustering algorithms to reduce computational complexity. Our method is evaluated on several real‐world datasets and their performance was compared with other clustering ensemble methods, such as TWCE and RDPC‐DSS. Experiments show that our method is more efficient and accurate and is 7% to 15% better than the best method compared.
Design and investigation of hybrid PON‐FSO system employing modified NZCC code under distinct weather conditions
Authors: Kumari Meet , Narayan Yogendra , Arya Vivek
Published: December 2022

In this paper, a hybrid time and wavelength division multiplexing passive optical network (TWDM‐PON) and wavelength division multiplexing optical code division multiple access (WDM‐OCDMA) with free space optics (FSO) for bidirectional 160/40 Gbps transmission has been proposed. Also, to offer the information to 64 users over 60 km fiber and 600 m FSO channels under diverse climate conditions have been presented. Also, to resist the fiber impairments, interference, noise and losses under the effect of unfavorable climate conditions in hybrid fiber‐FSO link, a modified new zero‐cross correlation (NZCC) code is effectively used in the system to enhance the system ability to access shared bandwidth with users' security. The performance of the designed PON system has been analysed and investigated for diverse FSO (10–600 m) and fiber distance (0–60 km) under distinct climate conditions. Based on mathematical and simulation analysis, the designed system using modified NZCC code is shown to provide better performance than other OCDMA codes. The designed system with hybrid fiber‐FSO link improves the performance of the system in terms of high received optical power of 3 dBm and support 110 users simultaneously at acceptable BER of 10−9, under fiber impairments, climate conditions and turbulences. Additionally, on comparing the designed system's performance with the prior latest work in literature reveals its superiority than others in codes and system design.
Improving crop yield potential: Underlying biological processes and future prospects
Authors: Burgess Alexandra J. , Masclaux‐Daubresse Céline , Strittmatter Günter , Weber Andreas P. M. , Taylor Samuel Harry , Harbinson Jeremy , Yin Xinyou , Long Stephen , Paul Matthew J. , Westhoff Peter , Loreto Francesco , Ceriotti Aldo , Saltenis Vandasue L. R. , Pribil Mathias , Nacry Philippe , Scharff Lars B. , Jensen Poul Erik , Muller Bertrand , Cohan Jean‐Pierre , Foulkes John , Rogowsky Peter , Debaeke Philippe , Meyer Christian , Nelissen Hilde , Inzé Dirk , Klein Lankhorst René , Parry Martin A. J. , Murchie Erik H. , Baekelandt Alexandra
Published: December 2022

The growing world population and global increases in the standard of living both result in an increasing demand for food, feed and other plant‐derived products. In the coming years, plant‐based research will be among the major drivers ensuring food security and the expansion of the bio‐based economy. Crop productivity is determined by several factors, including the available physical and agricultural resources, crop management, and the resource use efficiency, quality and intrinsic yield potential of the chosen crop. This review focuses on intrinsic yield potential, since understanding its determinants and their biological basis will allow to maximize the plant's potential in food and energy production. Yield potential is determined by a variety of complex traits that integrate strictly regulated processes and their underlying gene regulatory networks. Due to this inherent complexity, numerous potential targets have been identified that could be exploited to increase crop yield. These encompass diverse metabolic and physical processes at the cellular, organ and canopy level. We present an overview of some of the distinct biological processes considered to be crucial for yield determination that could further be exploited to improve future crop productivity.
Measures of climate for inclusion and diversity: Review and summary
Authors: Park Sohee , Park Sunyoung , Shryack Jessica
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this study was to review diversity climate and inclusive climate scales and identify their features. By using three key concepts present in the diversity and inclusion climate literature (fairness, uniqueness, and belongingness), 13 measures were analyzed and summarized according to individual, group, leadership, and organizational levels. Both inclusive and diversity climate measures are based on the assumption that individual differences should be perceived, accepted, and valued in organizations. Inclusive climate measures specifically emphasize how much individuals feel a sense of belongingness to their groups or organizations while still feeling free to maintain and express their differences and uniqueness. Measures for diversity climate focus on the ways in which organizations can support diverse employees and how organizations can provide fair and equal opportunities to employees regardless of their differences. Discussion and implications are presented.
Takotsubo syndrome and COVID‐19: A systematic review
Authors: Ghasemi Hoomaan , Kazemian Sina , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Shafie Mahan
Published: December 2022

Background and Aims

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), also known as stress cardiomyopathy, is characterized by acute and transient left ventricular dysfunction and has increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Herein, we aim to review studies on TTS that were associated with COVID‐19 infection, vaccine, and other COVID‐19‐related etiologies including psychosocial stressors.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus up to May 12, 2022. We included case reports, case series, and original articles that reported at least one TTS case associated with COVID‐19, or TTS cases after receiving COVID‐19 vaccines, or TTS cases secondary to psychological stress due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. The quality assessment was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist.

Results

Sixty‐seven articles including 102 cases were included. Hypertension was the most frequently accompanying comorbidity (N = 67 [65.6%]) and the mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 36.5%. Among COVID‐19 patients, the in‐hospital mortality rate was 33.3%. On the other hand, only one COVID‐19‐negative individual expired (2.3%). The most common presenting clinical symptom was dyspnea in 42 (73.6%) patients. the mean time interval from the first symptom to admission was 7.2 days. The most common chest imaging finding was ground‐glass opacity which was reported in 14 (31.1%) participants. The most common abnormalities were T‐wave inversion in 35 (43.2%) and ST‐segment elevation in 30 (37%). Brain natriuretic peptide and troponin were elevated in 94.7% and 95.9% of participants, respectively.

Conclusion

The TTS in patients with COVID‐19 is almost rare, whereas it could lead to a great mortality and morbidity. An individual with COVID‐19, especially an elderly woman, presented with dyspnea in addition to a rise in brain natriuretic peptide and troponin should be evaluated for TTS.
The factor structure of extrapyramidal symptoms evaluated using the Drug‐Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms Scale in patients with schizophrenia: Results from the 2016 REAP AP‐4 study
Authors: Kubota Chika , Inada Toshiya , Lin Shih‐Ku , Avasthi Ajit , Chee Kok Yoon , Tanra Andi Jayalangkara , Yang Shu‐Yu , Chen Lian‐Yu , Chong Mian‐Yoon , Tripathi Adarsh , Kallivayalil Roy Abraham , Grover Sandeep , Park Seon‐Cheol , Kato Takahiro A. , Xiang Yu‐Tao , Sim Kang , Maramis Margarita M. , Noor Isa Multazam , Tan Chay‐Hoon , Sartorius Norman , Shinfuku Naotaka
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Drug‐induced extrapyramidal syndrome (EPS) remains a major problem in clinical psychiatry. This study aimed to examine the factor structure of drug‐induced extrapyramidal symptoms observed in patients with schizophrenia and assessed using the Drug‐Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms Scale (DIEPSS).

Methods

The participants were 1478 patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia whose EPS was assessed using the DIEPSS in India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Taiwan in the 2016 REAP AP‐4 study. The records of the participants were randomly divided into two subgroups: the first for exploratory factor analysis of the eight DIEPSS items, and the second for confirmatory factor analysis.

Results

The factor analysis identified three factors: F1 (gait and bradykinesia), F2 (muscle rigidity and tremor), and F3 (sialorrhea, akathisia, dystonia, and dyskinesia).

Conclusion

The results suggest that the eight individual items of the DIEPSS could be composed of three different mechanisms: acute parkinsonism observed during action (F1), acute parkinsonism observed at rest (F2), and central dopaminergic mechanisms with pathophysiology other than acute parkinsonism (F3).
The role of the basal forebrain in general anesthesia
Authors: Peng Yi‐Ting , Yuan Cheng‐Dong , Zhang Yi
Published: December 2022

The basal forebrain is a group of nerve nuclei on the ventral side of the ventral ganglion, composed of γ‐aminobutyric acid neurons, glutamatergic neurons, cholinergic neurons, and orexigenic neurons. Previous studies have focused on the involvement of the basal forebrain in regulating reward, learning, movement, sleep–awakening, and other neurobiological behaviors, but its role in the regulation of general anesthesia has not been systematically elucidated. Therefore, the different neuronal subtypes in the basal forebrain and projection pathways in general anesthesia will be discussed in this paper. In this paper, we aim to determine and elaborate on the role of the basal forebrain in general anesthesia and the development of theoretical research and provide a new theory.
Does illicit financial flows crowd‐out domestic investment? Evidence from Sub‐Saharan Africa economic regions
Authors: Afolabi Joshua Adeyemi
Published: December 2022

The effect of illicit financial flows (IFFs) on macroeconomic performance has been subjected to debates in the academic and policy arena, albeit with little evidence on its investment effect. This study contributes to the IFF‐investment literature by focusing on the four economic regions in Sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), where IFFs have been growing consistently. The Pooled Mean Group (PMG) and panel dynamic ordinary least square (DOLS) estimators were utilized to analyse data for the period, 2008–2020. The result signalled inter‐connection among Sub‐Saharan African countries and affirmed the existence of a long‐run relationship among the variables considered. The empirical findings showed that IFFs crowd‐out domestic investment among the four SSA economic regions in the short and long time dimensions. This study, therefore, advocates for synergy among the stakeholders in each economic region to devise deliberate strategies to fight against the menace of IFFs toward successfully achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Toxic epidermal necrolysis after the administration of enfortumab vedotin for urinary bladder urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Mimura Yuji , Kobayashi Aya , Utazu Haruhiko , Matsumoto Yuki , Mizusawa Hiroya
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Enfortumab vedotin is a novel drug for locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, but it is associated with a high incidence of skin reactions (up to 47.0%).

Case presentation

A 71‐year‐old male was administered enfortumab vedotin for bladder cancer associated with lymph node metastases. Slight erythema of the upper limbs appeared on Day 5. Erythema gradually worsened. On Day 8, second administration was performed. On Day 12, based on the extents of blisters, erosion, and epidermolysis, a diagnosis of toxic epidermal necrolysis was made. The patient died of multiple organ failure on Day 18.

Conclusion

As serious cutaneous toxicity may appear early after the start of administration, it is important to consider the timing of the second administration of the initial course carefully. In cases of skin reaction, reduction or discontinuation should be considered.
Gold–oxoborate nanocomposite‐coated orthodontic brackets gain antibacterial properties while remaining safe for eukaryotic cells
Authors: Łyczek Jan , Bończak Bartłomiej , Krzymińska Izabela , Giżyński Konrad , Paczesny Jan
Published: December 2022

The study's main objective is to limit bacterial biofilm formation on fixed orthodontic appliances. Bacterial biofilm formation on such devices (e.g., brackets) causes enamel demineralization, referred to as white spot lesions (WSL). WSL is significant health, social and economic problem. We provide a nanotechnology‐based solution utilizing a nanocomposite of gold nanoparticles embedded in a polyoxoborate matrix (BOA: B—boron, O—oxygen, A—gold, Latin aurum). The nanocomposite is fully inorganic, and the coating protocol is straightforward, effective, and ecologically friendly (low waste and water‐based). Prepared coatings are mechanically stable against brushing with a toothbrush (up to 100 min of brushing). Bacteria adhesion and antibacterial properties are tested against Streptococcus mutans—common bacteria in the oral cavity. BOA reduces the adhesion of bacteria by around 78%, that is, from around 7.99 × 105 ± 1.33 × 105 CFU per bracket to 1.69 × 105 ± 3.07 × 104 CFU per bracket of S. mutans detached from unmodified and modified brackets, respectively. Modified fixed orthodontic brackets remain safe for eukaryotic cells and meet ISO 10993‐5:2009 requirements for medical devices. The gathered data show that BOA deposited on orthodontic appliances provides a viable preventive measure against bacteria colonization, which presents frequent and significant complications of orthodontic treatment.
Nitric oxide releasing poly(vinyl alcohol)/S‐nitrosated keratin film as a potential vascular graft
Authors: Liu Xu , Wang Chenshu , Du Mingyu , Dou Jie , Yang Jinyu , Shen Jian , Yuan Jiang
Published: December 2022

Nitric oxide (NO) releasing vascular graft is promising due to its merits of thromboembolism reduction and endothelialization promotion. In this study, keratin‐based NO donor of S‐nitrosated keratin (KSNO) was blended with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and further crosslinked with sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP) to afford PVA/KSNO biocomposite films. These films could release NO sustainably for up to 10 days, resulting in the promotion of HUVECs growth and the inhibition of HUASMCs growth. In addition, these films displayed good blood compatibility and antibacterial activity. Taken together, these films have potential applications in vascular grafts.
Quadrupole versus dipole photomotors: Symmetry constraints and operating properties
Authors: Dekhtyar Marina L. , Rozenbaum Viktor М.
Published: December 2022

The operating properties of different‐type Brownian photomotors have been compared in relation to the symmetry interplay between their moving (particle/molecule) and immovable (substrate) units. As found, essentially different symmetry constraints and hence different motor behavior are characteristic of molecules if their electron density redistribution on excitation involves only odd‐order or only even‐order multipole moments. The two respective types of molecules give rise to dipole and quadrupole photomotors. Purely dipole photomotors can operate only on substrates with symmetric charge distribution and their ensemble with random molecular orientations undergoes equidirectional diffusion rather than directed motion. Contrary to this, purely quadrupole photomotors need substrates with antisymmetric charge distribution for directed motion to occur and they can move directionally in an ensemble. Also, quadrupole photomotors provide much smaller velocities of directed motion than their dipole counterparts (as a result of the much weaker interaction of quadrupoles than dipoles with an electric field). The generic distinctions between the two photomotor types are exemplified by donor‐acceptor‐substituted stilbenoids (dipole molecules) and symmetric squaraines (quadrupole molecules). The model used affords the rational design of photomotors by the selection of promising moving molecules and by the continuous wide‐range tuning of charge‐distribution symmetry in substrates.
Bayesian Complex Innovative Trial Designs (CIDs) and Their Use in Drug Development for Rare Disease
Authors: Carlin Bradley P , Nollevaux Fabrice
Published: December 2022

As the temporal, financial, and ethical cost of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) continues to rise, researchers and regulators in drug discovery and development face increasing pressure to make better use of existing data sources. This pressure is especially high in rare disease, where traditionally designed RCTs are often infeasible due to the inability to recruit enough patients or the unwillingness of patients or trial leaders to randomly assign anyone to placebo. Bayesian statistical methods have recently been recommended in such settings for their ability to combine disparate data sources, increasing overall study power. The use of these methods has received a boost in the United States thanks to a new willingness by regulators at the Food and Drug Administration to consider complex innovative trial designs. These designs allow trialists to change the nature of the trial (eg, stop early for success or futility, drop an underperforming trial arm, incorporate data on historical controls, etc) while it is still running. In this article, we review a broad collection of Bayesian techniques useful in rare disease research, indicating the benefits and risks associated with each. We begin with relatively innocuous methods for combining information from RCTs and proceed on through increasingly innovative approaches that borrow strength from increasingly heterogeneous and less carefully curated data sources. We also offer 2 examples from the very recent literature illustrating how clinical pharmacology principles can make important contributions to such designs, confirming the interdisciplinary nature of this work.