bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enable data privacy, dynamics, and batch in public auditing scheme for cloud storage system
Authors: Yuan Yilin , Zhang Jianbiao , Xu Wanshan , Li Zheng
Published: December 2021

With the popularity of cloud computing, cloud storage technology has also been widely used. Among them, data integrity verification is a hot research topic. At present, the realization of public auditing has become the development trend of integrity verification. Most existing public auditing schemes rarely consider some indispensable functions at the same time. Thus, in this article, we propose a comprehensive public auditing scheme (PDBPA) that can simultaneously support data privacy protection, data dynamics, and multi‐user batch auditing. To guarantee privacy protection during the audit process, our PDBPA design a new method of constructing audit proof, which combines random masking techniques and bilinear properties of bilinear pairing. Not only can it ensure that TPA performs audits correctly, but it can also prevent it from exploring the user's sensitive data. In addition, by utilizing the modified dynamic hash table, which is a novel and small two‐dimensional data structure, data dynamics can be effectively achieved. Furthermore, we provide a detailed process for the third‐party auditors to perform batch audits for multiple users. Moreover, we give the detailed and rigorous security analysis in defending against forgery attack, replace attack, and replay attack. Performance evaluations demonstrate that our PDBPA scheme is effective and feasible.
Acute and Chronic Effects of Rifampin on Letermovir Suggest Transporter Inhibition and Induction Contribute to Letermovir Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Robbins Jonathan A. , Menzel Karsten , Lassman Michael , Zhao Tian , Fancourt Craig , Chu Xiaoyan , Mostoller Kate , Witter Rose , Marceau West Rachel , Stoch S. Aubrey , McCrea Jacqueline B. , Iwamoto Marian
Published: December 2021

Rifampin has acute inhibitory and chronic inductive effects that can cause complex drug–drug interactions. Rifampin inhibits transporters including organic‐anion‐transporting polypeptide (OATP)1B and P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), and induces enzymes and transporters including cytochrome P450 3A, UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A, and P‐gp. This study aimed to separate inhibitory and inductive effects of rifampin on letermovir disposition and elimination (indicated for cytomegalovirus prophylaxis in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients). Letermovir is a substrate of UGT1A1/3, P‐gp, and OATP1B, with its clearance primarily mediated by OATP1B. Letermovir (single‐dose) administered with rifampin (single‐dose) resulted in increased letermovir exposure through transporter inhibition. Chronic coadministration with rifampin (inhibition plus potential OATP1B induction) resulted in modestly decreased letermovir exposure vs. letermovir alone. Letermovir administered 24 hours after the last rifampin dose (potential OATP1B induction) resulted in markedly decreased letermovir exposure. These data suggest rifampin may induce transporters that clear letermovir; the modestly reduced letermovir exposure with chronic rifampin coadministration likely reflects the net effect of inhibition and induction. OATP1B endogenous biomarkers coproporphyrin (CP) I and glycochenodeoxycholic acid‐sulfate (GCDCA‐S) were also analyzed; their exposures increased after single‐dose rifampin plus letermovir, consistent with OATP1B inhibition and prior reports of inhibition by rifampin alone. CP I and GCDCA‐S exposures were substantially reduced with letermovir administered 24 hours after the last dose of rifampin vs. letermovir plus chronic rifampin coadministration. This study suggests that OATP1B induction may contribute to reduced letermovir exposure after chronic rifampin administration, although given the complexity of letermovir disposition alternative mechanisms are not fully excluded.
Antidepressants in pregnancy: Challenges in decision‐making despite low risks
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2021

When looking at the effects of antidepressants taken during pregnancy on outcomes in children, the most serious confounder is the effects of the condition itself on the children. This is a major challenge of studies, and in those of the highest quality — with well‐defined exposures and outcomes, as well as a reasonable methods of controlling by indication — there have been only small, uncertain, or no significant associations between antidepressant use in pregnancy and adverse outcomes. There are also risks in not treating depression at any time, including during pregnancy, and that includes risks to the child.
Collagen‐Induced Arthritis Mouse Model
Authors: Rosloniec Edward F. , Whittington Karen , Proslovsky Amanda , Brand David D.
Published: December 2021

The collagen‐induced arthritis mouse model is a widely studied autoimmune model of rheumatoid arthritis. In this model, autoimmune arthritis is induced by immunization of genetically susceptible strains of mice with type II collagen emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant. This article describes the steps necessary for the acquisition, handling, and preparation of CII, in addition to the selection of mouse strains, proper immunization technique, and methods for evaluation of the incidence and severity of the autoimmune arthritis. In this model, the first signs of arthritis appear approximately 21 to 28 days after immunization. The protocols in this article should provide the investigator with all the necessary information required to reproducibly induce a high incidence of CIA in genetically susceptible strains of mice, and to critically evaluate the pathology of the disease. Published 2021. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

This article was corrected on 26 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol: Induction of collagen‐induced arthritis

Support Protocol 1: Purification of type II collagen

Support Protocol 2: Purification of type II collagen α1(II) chains

Support Protocol 3: Assessment of arthritis incidence and severity

Support Protocol 4: Measurement of CII specific antibody by indirect ELISA

Support Protocol 5: Coupling CII to magnetic beads

Support Protocol 6: Measuring CII‐specific antibody by magnetic‐bead based ELISA

Support Protocol 7: Measurement of T cell responses to CII in CIA
Waste Face Surgical Mask Transformation into Crude Oil and Nanostructured Electrocatalysts for Fuel Cells and Electrolyzers
Authors: Muhyuddin Mohsin , Filippi Jonathan , Zoia Luca , Bonizzoni Simone , Lorenzi Roberto , Berretti Enrico , Capozzoli Laura , Bellini Marco , Ferrara Chiara , Lavacchi Alessandro , Santoro Carlo
Published: December 2021

A novel route for the valorization of waste into valuable products was developed. Surgical masks commonly used for COVID 19 protection by stopping aerosol and droplets have been widely used, and their disposal is critical and often not properly pursued. This work intended to transform surgical masks into platinum group metal‐free electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) as well as into crude oil. Surgical masks were subjected to controlled‐temperature and ‐atmosphere pyrolysis, and the produced char was then converted into electrocatalysts by functionalizing it with metal phthalocyanine of interest. The electrocatalytic performance characterization towards ORR and HER was carried out highlighting promising activity. At different temperatures, condensable oil fractions were acquired and thoroughly analyzed. Transformation of waste surgical masks into electrocatalysts and crude oil can open new routes for the conversion of waste into valuable products within the core of the circular economy.
The use of singlebeam echo‐sounder depth data to produce demersal fish distribution models that are comparable to models produced using multibeam echo‐sounder depth
Authors: Landero Figueroa Marcela Montserrat , Parsons Miles J. G. , Saunders Benjamin J. , Radford Ben , Salgado‐Kent Chandra , Parnum Iain M.
Published: December 2021

Seafloor characteristics can help in the prediction of fish distribution, which is required for fisheries and conservation management. Despite this, only 5%–10% of the world's seafloor has been mapped at high resolution, as it is a time‐consuming and expensive process. Multibeam echo‐sounders (MBES) can produce high‐resolution bathymetry and a broad swath coverage of the seafloor, but require greater financial and technical resources for operation and data analysis than singlebeam echo‐sounders (SBES). In contrast, SBES provide comparatively limited spatial coverage, as only a single measurement is made from directly under the vessel. Thus, producing a continuous map requires interpolation to fill gaps between transects. This study assesses the performance of demersal fish species distribution models by comparing those derived from interpolated SBES data with full‐coverage MBES distribution models. A Random Forest classifier was used to model the distribution of Abalistes stellatus, Gymnocranius grandoculis, Lagocephalus sceleratus, Loxodon macrorhinus, Pristipomoides multidens, and Pristipomoides typus, with depth and depth derivatives (slope, aspect, standard deviation of depth, terrain ruggedness index, mean curvature, and topographic position index) as explanatory variables. The results indicated that distribution models for A. stellatus, G. grandoculis, L. sceleratus, and L. macrorhinus performed poorly for MBES and SBES data with area under the receiver operator curves (AUC) below 0.7. Consequently, the distribution of these species could not be predicted by seafloor characteristics produced from either echo‐sounder type. Distribution models for P. multidens and P. typus performed well for MBES and the SBES data with an AUC above 0.8. Depth was the most important variable explaining the distribution of P. multidens and P. typus in both MBES and SBES models. While further research is needed, this study shows that in resource‐limited scenarios, SBES can produce comparable results to MBES for use in demersal fish management and conservation.
Chemical Modified Carbon Paste Electrode for Potentiometric Determination of Mo(VI) and its Application in Food Analysis and Agriculture Fertilizers
Authors: EL‐Sanafery Safa S. , Abbas Ashraf A. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: December 2021

Since to the best of our knowledge, there is no potentiometric sensors based on carbon paste electrodes were proposed for the potentiometric determination of molybdenum(VI) ion. In this study, 2,2′‐(propane‐1,3‐diylbis(oxy))dibenzoic acid (PBODBA) was synthesized and used as modifier in the fabrication of carbon paste electrode (CPE) for the quantification of molybdenum(VI). The developed electrodes I and II showed hexavalent Nernstian response of 9.80±0.05 and 9.90±0.08 mV decade−1 over the concentration ranges of 1.0×10−7–1.0×10−3 and 1.0×10−8–1.0×10−3 mol L−1, respectively. The electrodes showed good selectivity for Mo(VI). The modified electrodes were applied for the determination of Mo(VI) concentration in masscuaje agricultural fertilizer and spiked juice extractions containing several metals.
Efficient two‐layer rural electrification planning and techno‐economic assessment integrating renewable sources
Authors: Kamal Md Mustafa , Ashraf Imtiaz , Fernandez Eugene
Published: December 2021

Electricity access is a critical factor for social and economic development. Microgrid becomes cost‐effective means to provide access to electricity for the rural community. Rural electrification demands high investment due to its low energy demand and population. Planning of rural electrification is a technical and financial challenge for policymakers. This paper proposes the grid‐connected electrification of the rural community of Uttarakhand (India). An integrated model formed with the solar photovoltaic system, wind energy, and battery. This research aims to provide the optimal cost‐effective solution for the electrification of the rural community. The suggested model is optimized using Differential Algorithm to determine the optimal system configuration, cost of energy, and net present cost. The effectiveness of the proposed DE algorithm is compared with genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization. The results confirm that the proposed renewable energy‐based microgrid has a total production cost of $5 185 367.04, with a per‐unit cost of energy is $0.20/kWh. The proposed microgrid is a more suitable option for electrification in rural communities with less dependence on the grid and conventional sources.
Association of preoperative anemia and increased risk of blood transfusion and length of hospital stay in adults undergoing hip and knee arthroplasty: An observational study in a single tertiary center
Authors: Duarte Gustavo de Carvalho , Catanoce Aguinaldo Pereira , Zabeu José Luiz , Ribeiro Glaciano Nogueira , Moschen Mariangela , de Oliveira Nathália Aparecida Gonçalves , Langhi Dante Mario , Marques Júnior José Francisco Comenalli , Mendrone‐Junior Alfredo
Published: December 2021

Background and aims

Anemia is a common feature in patients presenting for major elective surgery, and it is considered an independent risk factor associated with adverse outcomes. Although several studies suggest that preoperative anemia is associated with poor outcomes after elective orthopedic surgery, data are still scarce in middle‐ and low‐income countries where this problem may be even greater. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of preoperative anemia in clinical outcomes in patients submitted to hip and knee arthroplasty in a single tertiary hospital.

Methods

Medical records of 234 adult patients submitted to knee and hip arthroplasty from January 2018 to July 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient's demographics (ie, age and gender), pre‐ and postoperative hemoglobin level (Hb), allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusion, intensive care admission, length of hospital stay, hospital readmissions, and mortality up to 30 days after the surgery were analyzed. Outcomes were evaluated according to preoperative anemia status based on World Health Organization (WHO) criteria.

Results

Mean age was 70 years with a slight female predominance (57.6%). The prevalence of anemia was 30.7% (72/234) being more prevalent in female (33.3% vs 26.7%). Preoperative anemia was significantly associated with greater rate of blood transfusion (34.5% vs 5.6%; P = .001), prolonged length of hospital stay (6.48 days vs 3.36 days; P = .001), and higher rate of intensive care unit admission (47.2% and 29.6% P = .009). Preoperative anemia had no effect on 30‐day readmission and mortality for both males and females.

Conclusions

Our retrospective study demonstrated that preoperative anemia is a common problem among orthopedic patients and is associated with increased transfusion risk and worse outcomes. Strategies to identify and treat anemic patients before elective surgery are critical to improving clinical outcomes.
In vivo detection of head and neck tumors by hyperspectral imaging combined with deep learning methods
Authors: Eggert Dennis , Bengs Marcel , Westermann Stephan , Gessert Nils , Gerstner Andreas O. H. , Mueller Nina A. , Bewarder Julian , Schlaefer Alexander , Betz Christian , Laffers Wiebke
Published: December 2021

Currently, there are no fast and accurate screening methods available for head and neck cancer, the eighth most common tumor entity. For this study, we used hyperspectral imaging, an imaging technique for quantitative and objective surface analysis, combined with deep learning methods for automated tissue classification. As part of a prospective clinical observational study, hyperspectral datasets of laryngeal, hypopharyngeal and oropharyngeal mucosa were recorded in 98 patients before surgery in vivo. We established an automated data interpretation pathway that can classify the tissue into healthy and tumorous using convolutional neural networks with 2D spatial or 3D spatio‐spectral convolutions combined with a state‐of‐the‐art Densenet architecture. Using 24 patients for testing, our 3D spatio‐spectral Densenet classification method achieves an average accuracy of 81%, a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 79%.
Locating the bandgap edges of eumelanin thin films for applications in organic electronics
Authors: Niyonkuru Dieudonné , Carrière Alexandre , Ambrose Ryan , Gouda Abdelaziz , Reali Manuel , Camus Anthony , Pezzella Alessandro , Hill Ian , Santato Clara
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Bio‐sourced (natural) organic materials are often chemically and structurally disordered, such that their structure‐property relationships must be explored using model systems. Eumelanin is an interesting candidate among natural organic materials.

RESULTS

In this work, the locations of the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy levels of 5,6‐dihydroxyindole (DHI) and 5,6‐dihydroxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acid (DHICA) building blocks (monomers) of the black‐brown biopigment eumelanin, in film form, are studied. The films are fabricated by the spin‐coating technique (i.e., here indicated as DHI‐ and DHICA‐films), which is sometimes followed by ammonia‐induced solid‐state polymerization (i.e., indicated as AISSP‐DHI and AISSP‐DHICA films), as well as by thermal evaporation (i.e., evaporated DHI and DHICA films). From Ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy (UPS), we deduced the ionization energies (EI) for all DHI‐ and DHICA‐based films to be in the range of 5.34‐5.56 eV and 5.35‐5.80 eV, respectively. The electron affinities (χE) are measurable using inverse photoemission spectroscopy (IPES) for DHI films (3.80 eV) and both evaporated DHI (4.0 eV) and DHICA (3.9 eV) films. On the other hand, the χE values of DHICA, AISSP‐DHI, and AISSP‐DHICA films are estimated with about 0.5 eV of uncertainty. UV‐visible spectroscopy reveals the preferred chromophoric bands for DHICA, AISSP‐DHICA, and DHI are in the range of 300‐330 nm, while AISSP‐DHI exhibits a broadened UV‐visible absorbance.

CONCLUSION

Our study paves the way for the design of suitable metal‐eumelanin interfaces for electronic applications. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
An efficient synthesis of 6‐arylpyrazolo[4′,3′:4,5]pyrimido[2,1‐a] isoquinolin‐8(9H)‐one derivatives catalyzed by AgOTf
Authors: Pan Wan‐Chen , Li Tuan‐Jie , Liu Jian‐Quan , Wang Xiang‐Shan
Published: December 2021

A new AgOTf‐catalyzed domino reaction of 2‐alkynylbenzaldehyde and 4‐amino‐1‐methyl‐3‐propyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐5‐carboxamide has been reported via a sequential condensation, cyclization, and acetylenic hydroamination process. The developed protocol provides an efficient and modular access to a range of new fused tetracyclic heterocycle 6‐aryl‐9‐methyl‐11‐propyl pyrazolo[4′,3′:4,5]pyrimido[2,1‐a]isoquinolin‐8(9H)‐ones with two new rings in good yields.
Humic acid complex formation with urea alters its structure and enhances biomass production in hydroponic maize
Authors: Jing Jianyuan , Zhang Shuiqin , Yuan Liang , Li Yanting , Zhang Yingqiang , Wen Yanchen , Zhao Bingqiang
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Humic acid (HA)‐enhanced urea (HAU) is the top‐selling efficiency‐enhanced urea in China. Comprehensive investigation into the structure and efficacy of HA complex formation with urea (HACU) – the main reaction product during HAU's production – is required to clarify the reaction mechanism between HA and urea, and to provide guidance for the development of high‐efficiency HAU.

RESULTS

HACU showed discrepant structural and compositional features from raw HA. Nitrogen (N) content in HACU was 7.3 times greater than that of HA. Several high‐resolution analytical methods showed a sharp increase of ammonia in the gaseous product during HACU pyrolysis, suggesting that urea contributed N to HACU. HACU was characterized with significantly fewer carboxyl groups than in raw HA, implying that the carboxyl group was the main group in HA to participate in the reaction between HA and urea. The presence of amide‐N in HACU verified the structure of the reaction product. Furthermore, both HACU and HA could enhance the biomass in hydroponically grown maize seedlings, but the highest stimulation for HACU came about when its carbon concentrations were 50–100 mg L−1, higher than the optimal carbon concentration for HA (25 mg L−1), attributed to the lower carboxyl group content for HACU to some extent.

CONCLUSION

During HAU's production, reaction with N derived from urea to form amide‐N decreased the carboxyl groups in HA, leading to higher concentrations for HACU required to achieve the similar bioefficacy of HA. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Controlled‐release urea combined with fulvic acid enhanced carbon/nitrogen metabolic processes and maize growth
Authors: Li Zeli , Chen Qi , Gao Feng , Meng Qingmin , Li Mingyang , Zhang Yan , Zhang Peng , Zhang Min , Liu Zhiguang
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Controlled‐release urea (CRU) or fulvic acid (FA), when applied, have been shown to increase nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) or to stimulate plant growth, yet their interactive effects are not well explored. The objective of this study was to investigate the synergistic mechanisms of CRU combined with FA (CRU + FA) on maize (Zea mays L.) growth. Through the experimental design with five treatments, the N metabolism through the transcriptomic analysis of maize leaf, endogenous hormones, photosynthesis enzymes in maize leaf and root, and maize yield and NUE were evaluated.

RESULTS

Compared with CRU treatment, CRU + FA treatment significantly increased auxin, nitrate reductase, and glutamate dehydrogenase in leaf by 35.4%, 43.9%, 40.8% and 19.5%, respectively, as well as, the relative content of the leaf chlorophyll and photosynthetic rate by 14.8% and 45.6%, respectively, at 12‐leaf collar stage; the carbon/nitrogen (C/N) metabolic process was significantly enriched in CRU + FA treatment by 312 and 418 genes, according to transcriptome profiles of C/N metabolic in leaves from various fertilizer treated maize; maize yield and NUE of CRU + FA treatment were increased by 6.3% and 38.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrated that CRU + FA is a viable fertilization scheme that can enhance maize growth, yield and NUE through their synergies in improving N uptake, promoting photosynthesis, increasing C/N metabolic processes, and enhancing enzyme activities. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Imaging Characteristics of Episiotomy Scars on Translabial Ultrasound: An Observational Study
Authors: Subramaniam Nishamini , Shek Ka Lai , Dietz Hans Peter
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Episiotomy has been purported to protect the anal sphincter from injury; efficacy is, however, disputed. Correct execution of episiotomy may have substantial implications. We aimed to describe the characteristics of episiotomy scars on translabial ultrasound (TLUS).

Methods

In this retrospective observational study involving women after repair of obstetric anal sphincter injuries, 76 women with a history of episiotomy were analyzed. Episiotomy scars were assessed on tomographic ultrasound in the transverse plane using volumes acquired on pelvic floor muscle contraction. We measured scar length, depth, and angle relative to a vertical reference line. Episiotomy scars were described as 1) ipsilateral if they started on the same side as the direction of the episiotomy, 2) contralateral if on the opposite side, and 3) mediolateral if the scar began in the midline.

Results

The mean scar angle was 50.5° (SD 14°; range 14.4°–79.3°) while mean scar length was 14.2 mm (SD 4.5; range 5.7–27.5 mm) and depth was 8.4 mm (SD 2.8, range 3.1–18.2 mm). Sixteen (21%) scars were located mediolateral while 32 (42%) were ipsilateral. In 28 (37%) women, the starting point of the episiotomy was located contralateral to the direction of the episiotomy.

Conclusion

In this pilot series, the mean angle of episiotomy scars was within the safe zone of 40° to 60°, however, in one‐third of cases the cut may have been initially directed toward the sphincter, not away from it. This observation suggests that not all episiotomies are performed optimally.
Existence and uniqueness of distributional solution for semilinear fractional elliptic equation involving new operator and some numerical results
Authors: Saadi Chaima , Lakhal Hakim , Slimani Kamel , Dob Sara
Published: December 2021

In this article, we study the existence and uniqueness of distributional solution for semilinear fractional problems of Dirichlet form involving new operator. By means of the Leray–Schauder degree theory, we establish the existence results, with suitable assumptions on the semilinear termgand the contraction principle to prove the uniqueness in a particular case, then the numerical study of this problem using the finite difference method.
A new valid rhabdomyosarcoma spheroid culture model for in vitro evaluation of hypericin‐based photodynamic therapy
Authors: Hempfling Laura , Adamus Anna , Wagner Benedikt R. , Engel Nadja , Seitz Guido
Published: December 2021

Background

Advanced stages of pediatric alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (RMA) are associated with an unfavorable outcome at established therapeutic strategies, accentuating the need for novel treatment options. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with hypericin (HYP) has shown strong cytotoxic effects in two‐dimensional (2D) cell culture. In order to more accurately mimic in vivo tissue architecture and better predict pharmaceutical response, the aim of this study was to establish a spheroid culture model by which PDT efficacy could be assessed in a three‐dimensional (3D) context.

Materials and methods

3D multicellular tumor spheroids were generated using various scaffold‐based and scaffold‐free techniques. On two reproducible methods, HYP‐PDT was performed varying spheroid sizes, photosensitizer concentrations, and illumination times. The ability for HYP uptake within the spheroid was analyzed assessing the substrate's autofluorescence. Antitumorigenic treatment effects were evaluated investigating cell viability, spheroid morphology, proliferative activity, and induction of apoptosis.

Results

Magnetic spheroid printing and orbital shaking methods were established as reproducible culturing systems producing uniform spheroids. Within assessed incubation times, HYP showed good penetration depth in spheroids containing 50,000 cells. PDT was causing metabolic and molecular impairment of RMA cells, resulting in viability decrease, reduction of cell proliferation, and induction of apoptosis.

Conclusion

Assessing HYP‐based PDT in a 3D culture model, we were able to gain an insight on how parameters like photosensitizer, oxygen, and light distribution contribute to the phototoxic effect. Compared to 2D cell culture, a higher treatment resistance was detected, which can be related to spheroid structure and mechanisms of intercellular communication, signal transduction, and gene expression.
Provider and staff crisis well‐being associated with trust in leadership and baseline burnout
Authors: Moerdler Scott , Steinberg Dara M. , Jin Zhezhen , Cole Peter D. , Kesselheim Jennifer , Levy Adam S. , Roth Michael , Rosenthal Susan L.
Published: December 2021

Background

The impact of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on the emotional health of health care workers continues to be an area of active research. However, few studies have focused on those working in pediatrics and its subspecialties, as well as ancillary and non‐patient‐facing staff. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated predictors of burnout and emotional well‐being of providers and staff.

Methods

An anonymous electronic survey was developed evaluating demographics, pandemic experiences, possible predictor variables, and three main outcomes of burnout, psychological distress, and perceived stress. Pediatric hematology oncology (PHO) chiefs and program directors across the country were invited to participate and disseminate the survey to their programs.

Results

A total of 682/1950 (35% of invited) individuals responded to all predictor and outcome variables. Over half reported high levels of burnout and some reported moderate/high levels of distress. Prepandemic burnout and decreased trust in leadership were associated with all three outcomes. Additional predictors included having a child ≤18 years at home, hospital role, and worrying about patient care or relationship with their patients. The majority (n = 444/682, 65.5%) reported that their institution had made COVID‐19‐related mental health resources available. However, only 6.5% (n = 44/682) reported utilizing these resources.

Conclusions

While the majority of PHO providers and staff were resilient during the early stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic, many reported high levels of burnout, yet few are utilizing institutional resources. This study has highlighted several actionable areas to help identify and address factors that are wearing down the emotional well‐being of providers and staff.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals working in prenatal diagnosis toward expanded non‐invasive prenatal testing in China
Authors: Yang Jing , Chen Min , Shen Wei , Wu Heli , Shou Jian , Sun Jimei , Wu Wenyan
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals (HCPs) working in prenatal diagnosis toward expanded non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in China.

Methods

We conducted a national online survey among HCPs working in prenatal diagnosis, including specialists in prenatal diagnosis and foetal medicine, obstetricians and gynaecologists, nurses in obstetrics and gynaecology, obstetric ultrasound doctors, and technicians in prenatal diagnosis laboratories. A total of 1882 questionnaires were collected, among which 1822 questionnaires met the research criteria and were included in the analysis.

Results

More than 99% of all participants opted for NIPT for trisomies 21, 18, and 13. The rates of support for expanded NIPT for sex chromosome aneuploidies, rare autosomal trisomies, microdeletions and microduplications, and single‐gene disorders were 93.9%, 88.6%, 89.4%, and 86.8%, respectively. Specialists in prenatal diagnosis and foetal medicine had greater knowledge but were less likely to support expanded NIPT compared to other participants. Knowledge increased with educational level, whereas support for expanded NIPT decreased with educational level.

Conclusions

More than 80% of HCPs working in prenatal diagnosis in China expressed support for expanding NIPT to conditions other than common trisomies. The degree of knowledge was negatively associated with the rate of support.
Biodiversity data: The importance of access and the challenges regarding benefit sharing
Authors: von Wettberg Eric , Khoury Colin K.
Published: December 2021

Negotiations around the potential inclusion of biodiversity data within the scope of access and benefit sharing mechanisms of international treaties on genetic resources have been contentious. Uncertainty persists around which data might be included and the impacts of this important change on the ability to advance science. This special collection of research, review, and opinion articles provides a range of evidence and viewpoints contributing context to these negotiations and the underlying scientific issues involved. Emerging themes include the need for clarity on the scope of biodiversity data subject to access and benefit sharing; the recognition that open exchange of these data provides substantial societal benefits; the prognosis that substantial constraints on access to biodiversity data will negatively impact research; the consensus that multilateral systems of exchange are preferable to bilateral ones; and emphasis on further capacity building and other forms of benefit sharing to enable wider use and impact of these data.
Migration, ageing and transnational care arrangements of Ecuadorian care workers in Spain
Authors: Moré Paloma
Published: December 2021

This paper addresses the intersections between international migration, care and ageing. Through an analysis of the life stories of 24 Ecuadorian women who migrated to Spain between the years 1990–2000 and who work or have worked in the older people care sector, we aim to analyse the transnational strategies they have developed to care for their older relatives and also to explore how these women foresee their own old age and what strategies they are developing to face this stage. The results underscore the fact that while these women are capable of getting involved in transnational care arrangements to guarantee the wellbeing of their older relatives, they are faced with constraints that prevent them from achieving this objective due to their socially unequal position in terms of the intersecting axes of gender, social class and migratory status. Their main difficulties stem from limited access to geographic mobility, but also from the economic pressure they are subjected to in supporting long‐term care for their older relatives. Furthermore, their own old age planning is weighed down by their work itineraries in the field of care. In some cases, transnational social protection strategies become a way to compensate for this position of social disadvantage, but they are not readily accessible to the women migrants who need them the most.
Predicting outcomes of phase III oncology trials with Bayesian mediation modeling of tumor response
Authors: Zhou Jie , Jiang Xun , Xia Hong Amy , Wei Peng , Hobbs Brian P.
Published: December 2021

Pivotal cancer trials often fail to yield evidence in support of new therapies thought to offer promising alternatives to standards‐of‐care. Conducting randomized controlled trials in oncology tends to be considerably more expensive than studies of other diseases with comparable sample size. Moreover, phase III trial design often takes place with a paucity of survival data for experimental therapies. Experts have explained the failures on the basis of design flaws which produce studies with unrealistic expectations. This article presents a framework for predicting outcomes of phase III oncology trials using Bayesian mediation models. Predictions, which arise from interim analyses, derive from multivariate modeling of the relationships among treatment, tumor response, and their conjoint effects on survival. Acting as a safeguard against inaccurate pre‐trial design assumptions, the methodology may better facilitate rapid closure of negative studies. Additionally the models can be used to inform re‐estimations of sample size for under‐powered trials that demonstrate survival benefit via tumor response mediation. The methods are applied to predict the outcomes of two colorectal cancer studies. Simulation is used to evaluate and compare models in the absence versus presence of reliable surrogate markers of survival.
Bayesian multivariate network meta‐analysis model for the difference in restricted mean survival times
Authors: Tang Xiaoyu , Trinquart Ludovic
Published: December 2021

Network meta‐analysis (NMA) is essential for clinical decision‐making. NMA enables inference for all pair‐wise comparisons between interventions available for the same indication, by using both direct evidence and indirect evidence. In randomized trials with time‐to event outcome data, such as lung cancer data, conventional NMA methods rely on the hazard ratio and the proportional hazards assumption, and ignore the varying follow‐up durations across trials. We introduce a novel multivariate NMA model for the difference in restricted mean survival times (RMST). Our model synthesizes all the available evidence from multiple time points simultaneously and borrows information across time points through within‐study covariance and between‐study covariance for the differences in RMST. We propose an estimator of the within‐study covariance and we then assume it to be known. We estimate the model under the Bayesian framework. We evaluated our model by conducting a simulation study. Our multiple‐time‐point model yields lower mean squared error over the conventional single‐time‐point model at all time points, especially when the availability of evidence decreases. We illustrated the model on a network of randomized trials of second‐line treatments of advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer. Our multiple‐time‐point model yielded increased precision and detected evidence of benefit at earlier time points as compared to the single‐time‐point model. Our model has the advantage of providing clinically interpretable measures of treatment effects.
Site‐Specific Regulated Memristors via Electron‐Beam‐Induced Functionalization of HfO2
Authors: Kumar Mohit , Ahn Yeong Hwan , Iqbal Shahid , Kim Unjeong , Seo Hyungtak
Published: December 2021

Emerging nonvolatile resistive switching, also known as the memristor, works with a distinct concept that relies mainly on the change in the composition of the active materials, rather than to store the charge. Particularly for oxide‐based memristors, the switching is often governed by the random and unpredicted temporal/spatial migration of oxygen defects, resulting in possessing limitations in terms of control over conduction channel formation and inability to regulate hysteresis loop opening. Therefore, site specific dynamic control of defect concentration in the active materials can offer a unique opportunity to realize on‐demand regulation of memory storage and artificial intelligence capabilities. Here, high‐performance, site‐specific spatially scalable memristor devices are fabricated by stabilizing the conduction channel via manipulation of oxygen defects using electron‐beam irradiation. Specifically, the memristors exhibit highly stable and electron‐beam dose‐regulated multilevel analog hysteresis loop opening with adjustable switching ratios even higher than 104. Additionally, broad modulation of neural activities, including short‐ and long‐term plasticity, paired‐pulse facilitation, spike‐timing‐dependent plasticity, and dynamic multipattern memory processing, are demonstrated. The work opens a new possibility to regulate the resistive switching behavior and control mimicking of neural activities, providing a hitherto unseen tunability in two‐terminal oxide‐based memristors.
Self‐Optimizing Effect in Lithium Storage of GeO2 Induced by Heterointerface Regulation
Authors: Wu Junxiu , Tang Anwen , Wang Kaihong , Huang Shuping , Wei Mingdeng
Published: December 2021

Herein, a heterostructural hexagonal@tetragonal GeO2 (HT‐GeO2) composite has been designed based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations and synthesized via an acidic‐heating route dealt with rapid cooling, where the inner hexagonal GeO2 (H‐GeO2) phase is covered by a porous layer of tetragonal GeO2 (T‐GeO2) owing to HF etching. Interestingly, the HT‐GeO2 electrode has a self‐optimizing effect in lithium storage induced by heterointerface regulation, where the porous T‐GeO2 layer on the surface of HT‐GeO2 can act as not only a Li+/electron conducting layer, but also a buffer layer, while the inner H‐GeO2 phase can react preferentially with Li ions owing to lower intercalation energy, which is confirmed by operando XRD measurement contributing to thorough lithiation for HT‐GeO2. Moreover, the heterointerface can enhance the pseudocapacitance effect, which can boost the Li storage and accelerate the discharge‐charge process. As a result, a large capacity of 984 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 2 A g−1 and a capacity of 430 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 20 A g−1 are delivered. This work provides an easy and efficient way to improve the cycling stability of the GeO2 anode, and the T‐GeO2 phase would be a novel anode material in energy storage devices.
North American Spathian (upper Olenekian, Lower Triassic) neogondolellin conodonts
Authors: Orchard Michael J.
Published: December 2021

The taxonomy and biostratigraphy of poorly known neogondolellin conodonts from mostly Spathian (upper Olenekian, Lower Triassic) strata are described from widespread localities in North America: high latitude Canadian Arctic, mid‐latitude British Columbia (BC), and lower latitudes in the USA. The occurrence of the neogondolellins in key sections and in matrix of dated ammonoid collections is documented. Neogondolellins characteristic of seven ammonoid zones are identified. Fifteen new conodont species are assigned to four genera:Borinella,Columbitella,MagnigondolellaandNeogondolella.Borinella, more common in the Smithian, undergoes a radiation in the early Spathian ‘tirolitid n. gen. A’ ammonoid beds of California eventually resulting in five newNeogondolellaspecies (Ng. bucheri,Ng. darwinensis,Ng. praeacuta,Ng. sinuosa, and laterNg. spathiconstricta) and the first newMagnigondolella,Mg. mutata. Several of these plusBo.? curvatasp. nov. also occur above thetardusZone in British Columbia (BC). In the next younger ammonoid zone withTirolites, the firstColumbitellaareCb. joanaeandCb. weitschati. Middle SpathianColumbitesandProcolumbitesammonoid beds in the USA are dominated byCb. elongata, whereas the broadly equivalent strata in the north containCb. amica,Cb. brevissp. nov. andCb. paragondolellaeformis. Late Spathian radiation produces six new species ofMagnigondolella:Mg. incurva,Mg.?minutaandMg. trutchensisin theProhungaritesammonoid beds, followed byMg. acuminata,Mg. tozeriandMg. peribolain thehaugiandsubrobustusammonoid zones.
Pulmonary arterial thromboses and gall bladder wall oedema in a cat with bronchioloalveolar carcinoma
Authors: Fortuna Luca , Yaffy Dylan , Priestnall Simon L. , Cook Simon
Published: December 2021

An 11‐year‐old male neutered British Shorthair cat presented with acute collapse, dyspnoea and paraparesis. Left atrial enlargement and left‐sided congestive heart failure were excluded by point‐of‐care ultrasonography, and gall bladder wall oedema was detected. Comparative venous blood gas analyses confirmed ischaemia of the hindlimbs, and echocardiography was consistent with pulmonary hypertension. The patient was euthanased and a postmortem examination revealed pulmonary artery thromboses associated with bronchioloalveolar carcinoma.
Multiscale computations and artificial intelligent models of electrochemical performance in Li‐ion battery materials
Authors: Qiu Wujie , Wang Youwei , Liu Jianjun
Published: December 2021

Li‐ion battery (LIB) is widely used as one of renewable energy resources for powerful electronics and electric vehicles. The main challenge in developing next‐generation LIB is to further improve the energy density, rate capability, and cycling stability of electrode and electrolyte materials. With the rapid development of computational science, the material design has changed from the traditional trial‐and‐error approach to integrated database‐based computation. Multiscale computational methods and machine learning (ML) not only speed up the development of new materials, but also provide insight into the intrinsic relationship between the microscopic composition and macroscopic performance of materials. In this review, we revealed the correlation of electrochemical activity of LIB materials with the response of energy to variable parameters such as charge‐transfer number and Li‐ion diffusion coordinates. Based on the structure–property relationship, we reviewed multiscale calculation and ML methods for electrochemical properties in LIB materials. A comparison for various applied methods was outlined to provide a method‐selecting reference in LIB material design. It is expected that a deep combination of multiscale computations, experimental data, ML should be more powerful methods for discovering new LIB materials.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Materials Science

Electronic Structure Theory > Density Functional Theory

Structure and Mechanism > Reaction Mechanisms and Catalysis
Perspectives for School: Maker Approach, Educational Technologies and Laboratory Approach, New Learning Spaces
Authors: Di Stasio Margherita , Miotti Beatrice
Published: December 2021

Technology has become an ordinary, constituent element of today’s world. Therefore, digital skills are not only important, but ultimately necessary for all. This makes it mandatory for school and educational research to construct learning paths with an educational rather than a training approach to technology. The purpose of school is not to prepare students to be users of an instrument, but, above all, to kindle in them an awareness of the process that can stem from creation. This chapter aims to highlight some of the topics emerging from international discussion on school and learning methodologies. First, one of the interesting topics is the Maker approach and productive partnerships with schools, including in relation to the original concept of craftsmanship, forerunner of the term “maker”. Second, educational robotics and the laboratory as tools for improving deep learning, abstract thinking and problem-solving skills, without forgetting to look at the ethical and social issues of introducing robots into our lives. Third, learning spaces and new school buildings have to meet the changing paradigms of learning approaches. There are countless opportunities for improving digital skills and methodological approaches. Teachers should be aware of all these possibilities and be ready to get training and apply them in their everyday lessons.
Furniture Design Education with 3D Printing Technology
Authors: Eti Proto Meltem , Koç Sağlam Ceren
Published: December 2021

Three-dimensional printing technology has an important place in furniture and interior design, a strong global sector that responds rapidly to the changing needs and expectations of the individual and society. The main objective of design education should be to equip us to imagine new models of life. Among the most attractive benefits of 3D printing technology that make it a boon to designers working in the building and furniture sector are that it enables them to seek original forms that cannot be produced in molds, it generates less waste, and is accessible to all. Today, innovation in the profession, innovative materials, and knowledge of innovative production technologies that feed creative thinking have become ever important features of design education. This knowledge will allow us to imagine, discuss and pioneer design production ideas for new life models. This paper discusses 3D printing technology, the furniture design studio method and its contribution to design education in the Production Techniques courses of the Interior Architecture Department of Marmara University’s Faculty of Fine Arts led by Professor Meltem Eti Proto, Instructor Can Onart, Lecturer T. Emre Eke, and Research Assistant Ceren Koç Sağlam.
Montessori Creativity Space: Making a Space for Creativity
Authors: Fattizzo Tiziano , Vania Pierfrancesco
Published: December 2021

We describe the creation of the “Montessori creativity space,” the maker space of the “Secondo Istituto Comprensivo” primary and middle school of Francavilla Fontana, Italy. The space was inspired by the concept of Malaguzzi’s atelier as a learning environment for students, teachers, local associations and artisans. In it, the imagination and action come together to ensure cross-disciplinary learning around robotics, educational electronics, logic, computational thinking, and digital and hand-built artifacts.
Chesscards: Making a Paper Chess Game with Primary School Students, a Cooperative Approach
Authors: Addone Agnese , De Bernardis Luigi
Published: December 2021

The game of chess can be too theoretical for children and can even be quite a challenge for teachers and chess masters. It is hard to make it approachable and, at the same time, technically correct. The Chesscards educational project arose from these observations, and is intended to be a way to translate chess theory actively, by tinkering with paper and colors. This delightful experience was conducted from 2015 to 2019 with 10-year-olds in a primary school in Rome, Italy, and enabled children to develop good chess skills by cooperating in making. Small groups of children aged 7–10 created playing cards and a paper chessboard along the lines of some of the most famous games. The initiative’s huge success, and the reason it was repeated in these last years, lies in its strictly constructionist approach to making: Chesscards became an original way to learn, and an easy social game that any child can play.