bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A domestic plant differs from its wild relative along multiple axes of within‐plant trait variability and diversity
Authors: Robinson Moria L. , Schilmiller Anthony L. , Wetzel William C.
Published: January 2022

For 10,000 years humans have altered plant traits through domestication and ongoing crop improvement, shaping plant form and function in agroecosystems. To date, studies have focused on how these processes shape whole‐plant or average traits; however, plants also have characteristic levels of trait variability among their repeated parts, which can be heritable and mediate critical ecological interactions. Here, we examine an underappreciated scale of trait variation—among leaves, within plants—that may have changed through the process of domestication and improvement. Variability at this scale may itself be a target of selection, or be shaped as a by‐product of the domestication process. We explore how levels of among‐leaf trait variability differ between cultivars and wild relatives of alfalfa (Medicago sativa), a key forage crop with a 7,000‐year domestication history. We grew individual plants from 30 wild populations and 30 cultivars, and quantified variability in a broad suite of physical, nutritive, and chemical leaf traits, including measures of chemical dissimilarity (beta diversity) among leaves within each plant. We find that trait variability has changed over the course of domestication, with effects often larger than changes in trait means. Domestic alfalfa had elevated among‐leaf variability in SLA, trichomes, and C:N; increased diversity in defensive compounds; and reduced variability in phytochemical composition. We also elucidate fundamental relationships between trait means and variability, and between overall production of secondary metabolites and patterns of chemical diversity. We conclude that within‐plant variability is an overlooked dimension of trait diversity in a globally critical agricultural crop. Trait variability is actually higher in cultivated plants compared to wild progenitors for multiple nutritive, physical, and chemical traits, highlighting a scale of variation that may mitigate loss of trait diversity at other scales in alfalfa agroecosystems, and in other crops with similar histories of domestication and improvement.
Remote sensing to characterize inundation and vegetation dynamics of upland lagoons
Authors: Brinkhoff James , Backhouse Gillian , Saunders Manu E. , Bower Deborah S. , Hunter John T.
Published: January 2022

Understanding broad trends in the distribution and composition of wetlands is essential for making evidence‐based management decisions. Determining temporal change in the extent of inundation in wetlands using remote sensing remains challenging and requires on‐ground verification to determine accuracy and precision. Therefore, optimization and validation of remote sensing methods in threatened wetlands is a high priority for their conservation. Despite their ecological importance in the landscape, we have little knowledge of the variation in the spatial extent of inundation in upland lagoons, a threatened ecological community in New South Wales, Australia. Our project developed locally trained algorithms to predict the extent of water and emergent vegetation using imagery from the Landsat‐5, ‐7, and ‐8 satellites. The best model for upland lagoons used shortwave infrared reflectance (performing better than normalized difference spectral indices), with model accuracy against validation transects greater than 95%. We applied the model to images from 1988 to 2020 across 58 lagoons to generate a dataset that demonstrates the variable water regime and vegetation change in response to local rainfall over 32 years such as in the lagoons. Our results reduce threats to a dynamic threatened ecological community by filling an important knowledge gap and demonstrate a valuable method to understand historical and current changes in the hydrology of dynamic wetland systems more broadly.
Invasive grass litter suppresses a native grass species and promotes disease
Authors: Benitez Liliana , Kendig Amy E. , Adhikari Ashish , Clay Keith , Harmon Philip F. , Holt Robert D. , Goss Erica M. , Flory S. Luke
Published: January 2022

Plant litter can alter ecosystems and promote plant invasions by altering resource availability, depositing phytotoxins, and transmitting microorganisms to living plants. Transmission of microorganisms from invasive plant litter to live plants may gain importance as invasive plants, which often escape pathogens upon introduction to a new range, acquire new pathogens over time. It is unclear, however, if invasive plant litter affects native plant communities by promoting disease. Microstegium vimineum is an invasive grass that suppresses native populations, in part through litter production, and has acquired new fungal leaf spot diseases since its introduction to the United States. In a greenhouse experiment, we evaluated how M. vimineum litter and its pathogens mediated competition with the native grass Elymus virginicus. M. vimineum litter promoted disease on E. virginicus and suppressed establishment and biomass of both species. Litter had stronger negative effects on E. virginicus than M. vimineum, increasing the relative biomass of M. vimineum. Live plant competition reduced biomass of both species and live M. vimineum increased disease incidence on E. virginicus. Altogether, invasive grass litter suppressed both species, ultimately favoring the invasive species in competition, and increased disease incidence on the native species.
Timing of prescribed burns impacts plant diversity but not investment in pollinator recruitment in a tallgrass prairie
Authors: Roberton Bethany , Rebar Darren
Published: January 2022

Prescribed burns replicate the historic fires that played a key role in maintaining prairies. Spring‐applied burns are commonly employed for grazing and brush control and, therefore, much is known about their effects. However, prairie plants may be sensitive to the historically variable timing of burns and thus differentially respond to when prescribed burns are applied, an aspect that remains poorly understood. We performed three experimental seasonal burn treatments (summer, fall, or spring) in tallgrass prairie and examined (1) the response of the flowering forb community in terms of density and diversity, and (2) how individual milkweed plants (Asclepias spp.) invested in nectar to recruit pollinators. We found that burn timing did not affect flowering forb density but did impact flowering forb diversity: It was lowest following spring burns, whereas summer‐ and fall‐burned plots were more diverse. Nectar sucrose concentrations in milkweeds, however, were not affected by the timing of burns but rather seemed robust in their investment to recruit pollinators. Therefore, while individual plant investment strategies may be more sensitive to other factors, the timing of prescribed burns seems important in promoting flowering forb diversity, which could have important downstream consequences on the diversity of pollinators and other animal communities.
Metallocene Anions: From Electrochemical Curiosities to Isolable Complexes
Authors: Magnoux Corentin , Mills David P.
Published: January 2022

Since the first reports and structural characterisation of ferrocene in the 1950s, metallocenes [M(Cp)2] (M=metal, Cp=cyclopentadienyl, C5H5) have become a workhorse of organometallic chemistry. The vast majority of metallocenes and derivatized metallocenes [M(CpR)2], where the CpR ring bears alternative substituents or incorporates heteroatoms in the ring itself, contain metal centres in a formal +II oxidation state, or +III for metallocenium cations, [M(CpR)2]+. Here we present an overview of metallocene anions and their derivatives, [M(CpR)2]−, where metal centres formally exhibit +I oxidation states. We focus on d‐block examples, from their origins as unstable intermediates in low temperature electrochemical studies to more recent examples of isolated complexes.
Energy dissipation in reinforced concrete members before or after yielding
Authors: Grammatikou Sophia , Fardis Michael N. , Biskinis Dionysis
Published: January 2022

Models for the pre‐ and post‐yield energy dissipation in reinforced concrete (RC) members are developed using a database of about 1200 tests with over 18,000 load cycles. Before yielding, the equivalent viscous damping ratio exceeds 5%, especially if the member is initially uncracked. It can be considered by using either a dedicated pre‐yield hysteretic model with parameters established in the paper or global viscous damping and special provisions against double counting of energy dissipation. The post‐yield model can be combined with various post‐yield hysteretic laws. It accounts for the member's type, shear‐span‐to‐depth ratio and likely failure mode, the continuity, ratio, and surface characteristics of longitudinal bars, and for FRP wrapping, if any. Alternatively, it recognizes only four member types but accounts also for the transverse steel ratio and the normal stress due to the axial load.
Precast concrete column base with replaceable energy dissipation connectors: Quasi‐static tests and numerical research
Authors: Zhang Jinyang , Wu Jing , Xie Luqi , Li Chunyu , Zhu Yunqing
Published: January 2022

A type of precast concrete column base with replaceable energy dissipation connectors (REDCs) is proposed in this study. The bottom of the column is reinforced with a square steel tube. REDCs can transfer the bending moment of the column base during frequent earthquakes and yield to dissipate most of the inputted seismic energy during major earthquakes. Several raised steel stoppers are arranged around the sides of the column base to limit lateral slippage. The load‐resisting mechanism, construction technology and post‐earthquake repair methods of the column base are introduced. Five quasi‐static tests were carried out on a full‐scale test specimen, in which the experimental variables include the axial compression ratio of the column and the size of the REDCs. The test results show that the damage was concentrated in the REDCs while the precast column suffered minor damage. The REDCs fractured after dozens of cycles at large lateral drift ratios, effectively exerting their excellent low‐cycle fatigue performance. Plump and stable hysteretic curves and bilinear skeleton curves were obtained in test results. The curves before and after seismic rehabilitation are similar. Furthermore, a simplified numerical analysis model of the column base is established using OpenSees. The hysteretic curves and skeleton curves obtained by simulation agree with the test results.
Predicting sediment connectivity in a mountain basin: A quantitative analysis of the index of connectivity
Authors: Martini Lorenzo , Cavalli Marco , Picco Lorenzo
Published: January 2022

Sediment connectivity underlies the relationships between sediment source areas and stream network and the use of topography‐based indices, such as the index of connectivity (IC), has become a common approach to investigate these relationships. However, few studies have tested the potential of the IC as an independent variable for predicting observable processes. In this study, the aim is the validation of the IC as a semi‐quantitative tool for depicting structural connectivity and predicting sediment dynamics linking sediment sources to the channel network after a large infrequent disturbance in the Rio Cordon catchment (Italy). First, the assessment of lateral connectivity was carried out using a combination of remote sensing data and field observations. In this way, it was possible to classify the sediment sources into disconnected, connected or functionally connected. Second, logistic regression analyses were performed using different IC variants, with different weighting factors and spatial resolutions as independent variables and connectivity status as dependent variable. Hence, the predictive capacity of the IC was tested and a threshold was derived to distinguish between low and high sediment connectivity. The results showed that only 15% of sediment sources are connected to the stream network. Moreover, the IC proved to be a reliable tool for depicting structural connectivity when using surface roughness as weighting factor and high‐resolution digital terrain models. On the contrary, it failed at predicting sediment dynamics as it did not classify correctly the functionally connected areas, so it cannot infer functional sediment connectivity in this case study. As a consequence, it was possible to obtain an IC threshold of −2.32, capable of differentiating between low and high structural sediment connectivity and useful for future management decisions. The threshold, in fact, represents an objective boundary between disconnected and connected sources in the Rio Cordon catchment.
Variable pulse position modulation receivers for visible light communication systems without the knowledge of dimming level
Authors: Sünnetci Kubilay Muhammed , Sönmez Mehmet
Published: January 2022

The dimming control is one of the most significant issues to provide both illumination and data transmission for visible light communication (VLC) systems. The receivers—such as variable pulse position modulation (VPPM) receiver—must know the dimming level of the received signal for the demodulation process. To provide a complete solution to this problem, we propose two VPPM receivers that can detect data bits without knowledge of dimming level (KDL). The first one, which is referred to as artificial neural network (ANN)‐VPPM, includes the ANN technique to achieve a proper step signal instead of traditional mask signals that are generated by using the perfect KDL. The ANN‐VPPM gives a successful bit error rate (BER) performance compared to the unsuitable traditional system (U‐TS), which is called the traditional system that decodes the VPPM signal using inappropriate mask signals. If the ANN‐VPPM is compared to traditional system (TS), which is the traditional system using a perfect mask signal, the TS has better BER performance than the ANN‐VPPM. Hence, the other one that is called the proposed estimation method (PEM) is improved to achieve the same BER performance compared to the TS. An estimation performance is given to indicate the 100% estimation rate and to prove that the BER performance of systems is the same at least signal‐to‐noise ratio of 22 dB. Additionally, the PEM is saving the optical power of the VPPM signal up to 23% at a BER of 10−3 when compared to U‐TS.
Discovery of granulite‐facies metamorphic rocks in the Yilan area, Heilongjiang Province, China: Geochronology, geochemistry, metamorphic characteristics, and geological implications
Authors: Yang Yan , Zheng Changqing , Liang Chenyue , Xu Xuechun , Zhou Jianbo , Zhou Xiao , Sun Xiaolei , Zhu Erlin , Jia Shiju
Published: January 2022

The Mashan Complex of the Jiamusi Massif was traditionally considered as the oldest stratigraphic sequence in eastern NE China. However, the metamorphic degree of the Mashan Complex is different in different areas, which can be divided into Jixi–Mishan–Hulin granulite facies belt and Luobei–Huanan–Mudanjiang amphibolite facies belt. Here, we investigated the Mashan Complex in the Yilan area and present lots of new petrological, mineral chemical, geochemical, and U–Pb geochronological data, in addition to phase equilibria modelling, to constrain the timing of metamorphism, P–T conditions, and the P–T path of the Mashan Complex, and furthermore to deduce the crustal evolution of the Jiamusi Massif. The protoliths of the Mashan Complex in the Yilan area are greywackes and felsic sandstones, whose provenance is dominantly felsic rocks formed from a continental island arc. Petrographic observations, traditional thermobarometry, and quantitative phase equilibria modelling of the studied samples reveal P–T conditions from M2 to M3 of ~7.2 kbar/760–800°C and 4.5–5.0 kbar/585–610°C, respectively, which together define a clockwise P–T path involving decompressional cooling (M3) that followed the peak granulite‐facies metamorphism (M2). It reveals essential information related to the collision orogeny and post‐collision process. Zircon U–Pb dating of two felsic rocks yielded the peak of the granulite‐facies metamorphism in the Yilan area of the Jiamusi Massif that might have occurred at ~500 Ma. The overall deposition of the metamorphic rocks was later than ~760 Ma and that most of the detrital materials came from late Mesoproterozoic and early Neoproterozoic source rocks.
Zac1 and the Imprinted Gene Network program juvenile NAFLD in response to maternal metabolic syndrome
Authors: Baptissart Marine , Bradish Christine M. , Jones Brie S. , Walsh Evan , Tehrani Jesse , Marrero‐Colon Vicmarie , Mehta Sanya , Jima Dereje D. , Oh Seh Hoon , Diehl Anna Mae , Fougeray Tiffany , Guillou Hervé , Cowley Michael
Published: January 2022

Background and Aims

Within the next decade, NAFLD is predicted to become the most prevalent cause of childhood liver failure in developed countries. Predisposition to juvenile NAFLD can be programmed during early life in response to maternal metabolic syndrome (MetS), but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. We hypothesized that imprinted genes, defined by expression from a single parental allele, play a key role in maternal MetS‐induced NAFLD, due to their susceptibility to environmental stressors and their functions in liver homeostasis. We aimed to test this hypothesis and determine the critical periods of susceptibility to maternal MetS.

Approach and Results

We established a mouse model to compare the effects of MetS during prenatal and postnatal development on NAFLD. Postnatal but not prenatal MetS exposure is associated with histological, biochemical, and molecular signatures of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in juvenile mice. Using RNA sequencing, we show that the Imprinted Gene Network (IGN), including its regulator Zac1, is up‐regulated and overrepresented among differentially expressed genes, consistent with a role in maternal MetS‐induced NAFLD. In support of this, activation of the IGN in cultured hepatoma cells by overexpressing Zac1 is sufficient to induce signatures of profibrogenic transformation. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation, we demonstrate that Zac1 binds the TGF‐β1 and COL6A2 promoters, forming a direct pathway between imprinted genes and well‐characterized pathophysiological mechanisms of NAFLD. Finally, we show that hepatocyte‐specific overexpression of Zac1 is sufficient to drive fibrosis in vivo.

Conclusions

Our findings identify a pathway linking maternal MetS exposure during postnatal development to the programming of juvenile NAFLD, and provide support for the hypothesis that imprinted genes play a central role in metabolic disease programming.
Natural acoustic stimuli evoke selective responses in the hippocampus of passive listening bats
Authors: Yu Chao , Moss Cynthia F.
Published: January 2022

A growing body of research details spatial representation in bat hippocampus, and experiments have yet to explore hippocampal neuron responses to sonar signals in animals that rely on echolocation for spatial navigation. To bridge this gap, we investigated bat hippocampal responses to natural echolocation sounds in a non‐spatial context. In this experiment, we recorded from CA1 of the hippocampus of three awake bats that listened passively to single echolocation calls, call‐echo pairs, or natural echolocation sequences. Our data analysis identified a subset of neurons showing response selectivity to the duration of single echolocation calls. However, the sampled population of CA1 neurons did not respond selectively to call‐echo delay, a stimulus dimension posited to simulate target distance in recordings from auditory brain regions of bats. A population analysis revealed ensemble coding of call duration and sequence identity. These findings open the door to many new investigations of auditory coding in the mammalian hippocampus.
Patient‐individual phenotypes of glioblastoma stem cells are conserved in culture and associate with radioresistance, brain infiltration and patient prognosis
Authors: Ganser Katrin , Eckert Franziska , Riedel Andreas , Stransky Nicolai , Paulsen Frank , Noell Susan , Krueger Marcel , Schittenhelm Jens , Beck‐Wödl Stefanie , Zips Daniel , Ruth Peter , Huber Stephan M. , Klumpp Lukas
Published: January 2022

Identification of prognostic or predictive molecular markers in glioblastoma resection specimens may lead to strategies for therapy stratification and personalized treatment planning. Here, we analyzed in primary glioblastoma stem cell (pGSC) cultures the mRNA abundances of seven stem cell (MSI1, Notch1, nestin, Sox2, Oct4, FABP7 and ALDH1A3), and three radioresistance or invasion markers (CXCR4, IKCa and BKCa). From these abundances, an mRNA signature was deduced which describes the mesenchymal‐to‐proneural expression profile of an individual GSC culture. To assess its functional significance, we associated the GSC mRNA signature with the clonogenic survival after irradiation with 4 Gy and the fibrin matrix invasion of the GSC cells. In addition, we compared the molecular pGSC mRNA signature with the tumor recurrence pattern and the overall survival of the glioblastoma patients from whom the pGSC cultures were derived. As a result, the molecular pGSC mRNA signature correlated positively with the pGSC radioresistance and matrix invasion capability in vitro. Moreover, patients with a mesenchymal (>median) mRNA signature in their pGSC cultures exhibited predominantly a multifocal tumor recurrence and a significantly (univariate log rank test) shorter overall survival than patients with proneural (≤median mRNA signature) pGSCs. The tumors of the latter recurred predominately unifocally. We conclude that our pGSC cultures induce/select those cell subpopulations of the heterogeneous brain tumor that determine disease progression and therapy outcome. In addition, we further postulate a clinically relevant prognostic/predictive value for the 10 mRNAs‐based mesenchymal‐to‐proneural signature of the GSC subpopulations in glioblastoma.
Perfecting hysterosalpingography: Limitations to the use of disposable balloon catheter and its solution
Authors: Youssef Youssef , Raju Rubin , Sanya Rahima , Abuzeid Omar , Hebert John , Abuzeid Mostafa
Published: January 2022

Objective

To revive the use of the Kahn Uterine Trigger Cannula to overcome limitations associated with technical difficulties during hysterosalpingography (HSG) using the disposable balloon HSG catheter.

Method

A case series was conducted of 17 patients who encountered technically difficult or incomplete HSG study while using a disposable HSG balloon catheter, also leading to false‐positive findings. Nine patients underwent a repeat HSG using a Kahn Uterine Trigger Cannula (Group 1). Eight patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy and tubal perfusion testing using a Kahn Uterine Trigger Cannula (Group 2). The findings for each group in comparison to their initial HSG results using the disposable balloon HSG catheter are described.

Results

All patients were noted to have patent fallopian tubes using a Kahn Uterine Trigger Cannula on repeat HSG or tubal perfusion testing during laparoscopy.

Conclusion

Providers who perform HSG studies should be familiar with the value of a Kahn Uterine Trigger Cannula when the traditional use of disposable HSG balloon catheter fails due to technical difficulty or incomplete study. The use of the Kahn Uterine Trigger Cannula in such situations can prevent inaccurate assessment and unnecessary interventions.
Lack of defined apheresis collection criteria in publicly available CAR‐T cell clinical trial descriptions: Comprehensive review of over 600 studies
Authors: Thibodeaux Suzanne R. , Aqui Nicole A. , Park Yara A. , Schneiderman Jennifer , Su Leon L. , Winters Jeffrey L. , Zubair Abba C. , Schwartz Joseph , Liu Hien D. ,   the Immune Effector Cell Therapy Subcommittee, Clinical Applications Committee, American Society for Apheresis
Published: January 2022

Background

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR‐T) cell successes have encouraged continued clinical study. Apheresis collection of starting material for CAR‐T cell therapy product manufacturing is critical but described approaches suggest variability and clinical guidelines are currently lacking. The goal of this study was to gather and assess variability in apheresis collection descriptions in publicly available CAR T‐cell therapy clinical trials.

Study design

We searched clinicaltrials.gov (a publicly available clinical trial database) for “chimeric antigen receptor T cells” on July 01, 2020 and studies accessed July 30, 2020‐August 15, 2020. Data collected included date posted, study characteristics, apheresis mentions (number, location, and context), laboratory parameters and transfusion allowances. Apheresis context was analyzed using a qualitative inductive approach of grounded theory method with open coding. Text was classified into 37 context codes, grouped into 12 categories, and then consolidated into patient, procedure, product, and miscellaneous themes.

Results

Apheresis was mentioned 1044 times in 322 (51.9%) of 621 total studies. Laboratory parameters mentioned included white blood cells (100 studies), absolute neutrophil count (220 studies), absolute lymphocyte count (102 studies), CD3+ cell (38 studies), hemoglobin (233 studies, 54 studies specified transfusion allowance), and platelet (269 studies, 48 studies specified transfusion allowance).

Conclusions

Apheresis collection of CAR‐T cell products is not well‐defined in clinical study descriptions and the context is inconsistent. Laboratory parameters useful for apheresis collection are variably present and do not consistently align with current practices. Further exploration, and clinical guideline development will encourage alignment of apheresis collections for CAR‐T cell products.
Synthesis, quantum chemical, and molecular modeling investigations of 1,2,3‐triazole fused dicarboxylate bioorganic derivative as angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor
Authors: Chandrasekaran RaviKumar , Murugavel Saminathan , Silambarasan Tamilselvan
Published: January 2022

In this present work, we report structural and computational studies of 1,2,3‐triazole fused dicarboxylate derivative (TMND), which is investigated as an angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor for antihypertension treatment. The crystal structure of TMND is solved by single‐crystal XRD method and correlated with density functional B3LYP/6–311++ method. We performed Hirshfeld surface analysis to examine the strength of hydrogen bonds and to measure the intercontacts and enrichment ratio. The enrichment ratio of OH contact in TMND crystal validates (EOH = 1.20) that the OC and O═C bonds produce four weak hydrogen bonds of the type O…HC as evident in the supramolecular crystal packing. The enrichment ratio of CH contacts (ECH = 1.02) represent CH…π interactions with aromatic rings present in TMND crystal structure similar to XRD data. By using density functional theory (DFT/B3LYP/6–311++) method, frontier molecular orbital and molecular electrostatic potential map were computed and reactive regions were identified. In silico ACE inhibition nature of the TMND compound was evaluated using molecular docking method and followed by molecular dynamics simulation. Results reveals superior ACE inhibition ability of TMND compound over the native ligand and standard Food and Drug Administration approved antihypertensive drug lisinopril. Hence, it is concluded that our compound TMND could be considered for the antihypertensive drug design and development process.
Diagnostic value of color parametric imaging and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound in the differentiation of hepatocellular adenoma and well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yu‐Hui , Fan Zhi‐Hui , Yin Shan‐Shan , Yan Kun , Sun Li‐Qi , Jiang Bin‐Bin
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To investigate the differential diagnostic value of computer‐aided color parametric imaging (CPI) and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) and well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (wHCC).

Method

A total of 38 patients who underwent CEUS and were pathologically diagnosed with HCA (10 cases) and wHCC (28 cases) were reviewed retrospectively. The differences between the radiological features of HCA and wHCC were compared by two readers, blinded to the final diagnosis.

Results

(a) Sonographic features: on gray‐scale ultrasound, halo sign was more common in wHCC than in HCA (60.7% vs. 10.0%, p = 0.009). On CEUS, hyper‐ or isoenhancement was more common in HCA in the portal phase (90.0% vs. 50.0%; p = 0.022). On CPI mode, HCA was inclined toward centripetal enhancement (60.0% vs. 14.3% p = 0.010). HCA was characterized by the presence of pseudocapsule enhancement (50.0% vs. 14.3%; p = 0.036). Quantitative analysis showed that the arrival time of HCA was earlier than that of wHCC (12.4 ± 3.7 s vs. 15.9 ± 3.2 s; p = 0.006). (b) Interobserver agreement was improved by using CPI compared with CEUS. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the combination were 80.0%, 85.7%, and 84.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

CEUS combined with CPI can provide effective information for the differential diagnosis of HCA and wHCC, especially for the non‐experienced radiologists.
Research experiences instrument: Validation evidence for an instrument to assess the research experiences of engineering PhD students' professional practice opportunities
Authors: Holloway Eric A. , Douglas Kerrie A. , Radcliffe David F. , Oakes William C.
Published: January 2022

Background

There are long‐held concerns about how graduate research programs prepare engineering PhD students for professional practice. Suitable instruments are lacking to effectively assess how research experiences contribute to the success of graduate students becoming professionals.

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to examine evidence of internal reliability and validity of using the research experiences instrument (REI) scores as a measure of engineering PhD students' professional practice opportunities in their research experiences.

Method

REI was constructed using an ontological framework. REI was administered twice to engineering PhD students, once to a single university (n = 236) and once to multiuniversities (n = 215). Psychometric analyses were conducted related to validity and reliability evidence, including exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and group score comparisons between genders, race/ethnicity, and engineering disciplines.

Results

Results of both factor analyses aligned with the theoretical five‐factor structure, with a second‐order Opportunity factor. Mean scores were the same between women and men, and for three engineering disciplines, but significantly lower for racially/ethnically minoritized groups. Factor scores indicate that students often lack opportunities to engage with professionals, a likely cause of students' professional practice struggles.

Conclusions

Evidence of validity has been provided to justify the use of REI to assess the unique research experiences of engineering PhD students as these relate to preparedness for professional practice. REI scores can be used for gender and race/ethnicity comparisons and are generalizable across engineering disciplines. Where students' REI scores show a lack of opportunities, remedial strategies can be implemented.
Contributors to disparities in postpartum readmission rates between safety‐net and non‐safety‐net hospitals: A decomposition analysis
Authors: Reid Lawrence D. , Weiss Audrey J. , Fingar Kathryn R.
Published: January 2022

Background

Safety‐net hospitals (SNHs) treat more maternal patients with risk factors for postpartum readmission.

Objective

To assess how patient, hospital, and community characteristics explain the SNH/non‐SNH disparity in postpartum readmission rates.

Design

A linear probability model assessed covariates associated with postpartum readmissions. Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition estimates quantified the contribution of covariates to the SNH/non‐SNH disparity in postpartum readmission rates.

Setting

Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project 2016–2018 State Inpatient Databases from 25 states.

Participants

3.5 million maternal delivery stays.

Measurements

The outcome was inpatient readmission within 42 days of delivery. SNHs had a share of Medicaid/uninsured stays in the top quartile. A range of patient, hospital, and community characteristics was considered as covariates.

Results

The unadjusted postpartum readmission rate was 4.2 per 1000 index deliveries higher at SNHs than at non‐SNHs (19.1 vs. 14.9, p < .001). Adjustment reduced the risk difference to 0.65 per 1000 (95% confidence interval [CI]: –0.14, 1.44). Patient (66%), hospital (14%), and community (4%) characteristics explained 84% of the disparity. The single largest contributors to the disparity were race/ethnicity (20%), hypertension (12%), hospital preterm delivery rate (10%), and preterm delivery (7%). Collectively, patient comorbidities explained 31% of the disparity.

Conclusion

Higher postpartum readmission rates at SNHs versus non‐SNHs were largely due to differences in the patient mix rather than hospital factors. Hospital initiatives are needed to reduce the risk of postpartum readmissions among SNH patients. Improving factors that contribute to the disparity, including underlying health conditions and health inequities associated with race, requires enduring investments in public health.
Identification of neurodegeneration indicators and disease progression in metachromatic leukodystrophy using quantitative NMR‐based urinary metabolomics
Authors: Laugwitz Lucia , Zizmare Laimdota , Santhanakumaran Vidiyaah , Cannet Claire , Böhringer Judith , Okun Jürgen G. , Spraul Manfred , Krägeloh‐Mann Ingeborg , Groeschel Samuel , Trautwein Christoph
Published: January 2022

Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is a lysosomal storage disease caused by a deficiency of the arylsulfatase A (ARSA). ARSA deficiency leads to an accumulation of sulfatides primarily in the nervous system ultimately causing demyelination. With evolving therapeutic options, there is an increasing need for indicators to evaluate disease progression. Here, we report targeted metabolic urine profiling of 56 MLD patients including longitudinal sampling, using 1H (proton) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. 1H‐NMR urine spectra of 119 MLD samples and 323 healthy controls were analyzed by an in vitro diagnostics research (IVDr) tool, covering up to 50 endogenous and 100 disease‐related metabolites on a 600‐MHz IVDr NMR spectrometer. Quantitative data reports were analyzed regarding age of onset, clinical course, and therapeutic intervention. The NMR data reveal metabolome changes consistent with a multiorgan affection in MLD patients in comparison to controls. In the MLD cohort, N‐acetylaspartate (NAA) excretion in urine is elevated. Early onset MLD forms show a different metabolic profile suggesting a metabolic shift toward ketogenesis in comparison to late onset MLD and controls. In samples of juvenile MLD patients who stabilize clinically after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), the macrophage activation marker neopterin is elevated. We were able to identify different metabolic patterns reflecting variable organ disturbances in MLD, including brain and energy metabolism and inflammatory processes. We suggest NAA in urine as a quantitative biomarker for neurodegeneration. Intriguingly, elevated neopterin after HSCT supports the hypothesis that competent donor macrophages are crucial for favorable outcome.
Two green chromatographic methods for the quantification of tamsulosin and solifenacin along with four of their impurities
Authors: Kamel Ebraam B.
Published: January 2022

Modern analytical procedures often include impurity profiling to verify the potency, safety, and effectiveness of new formulations. We had to develop techniques based on green analysis since the detrimental influence of solvents and chemicals on the environment has now become a serious concern. Two selective, sensitive, and green liquid chromatography methods were established and fully validated for quantitation of tamsulosin hydrochloride and solifenacin succinate along with four of their official and/or related impurities namely; tamsulosin sulfonic acid, tamsulosin impurity H, solifenacin impurity A and solifenacin impurity C. The first used high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography with silica gel 60 F254 plates as the stationary phase and an elution system of ethyl acetate:butanol:glacial acetic acid (10.0:0.4:0.1, by volume) and a scanning wavelength of 225.0 nm. The second method depended on HPLC with diode array detection. Chromatographic separation was accomplished on a Zorbax SB C18 (250 × 4.6 mm2, 5 μm) column utilizing a mixture of 10.0 mM sodium dihydrogen phosphate (pH 3.0, adjusted by o‐phosphoric acid) and methanol, at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min in a gradient elution mode and then the separated peaks were scanned at a wavelength of 225.0 nm. To assess the greenness profile, three distinct methodologies were applied.
Baseline and status of desertification in Central Asia
Authors: Cai Diwen , Wang Xunming , Hua Ting , Jiao Linlin , Geng Xin
Published: January 2022

Baseline determination is a prerequisite for desertification monitoring and assessment and also for the sustainable development of drylands. In this study based on long‐term remote sensing net primary production (NPP) data and combined with a local NPP scaling method, the desertification status in Central Asia is quantified, and NPP‐based objective baseline of desertification (potential NPP, NPPp), which could be more convenient and enables the desertification status measurable from local to global scales, is established by integrating space‐for‐time substitution, isolation forest (iForest) algorithm, and Monte Carlo simulations. More reliable than a fixed percentile‐based reference with subjective preference, the analyzed results show that across Central Asia over the past four decades, the NPPp ranged from 46.4 to 639.5 gC m−2 yr−1 with different land cover types and regions, and the general desertification status in the region was rated as a moderate degree with an average of 50.5%. From the 1980s to the 2000s in most regions of Central Asia, reversals of desertification occurred, but it intensified in the 2010s. This study may contribute to improving the existing framework of SDG Indicator 15.3.1.
Comparing the diagnostic accuracy of audiometric Weber test and tuning fork Weber test in patients with conductive hearing loss
Authors: Abdullah Siti Nazira , Zakaria Mohd Normani , Salim Rosdan , Md Daud Mohd Khairi , Nik Othman Nik Adilah
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Weber test is typically conducted using tuning forks, but an audiometer can also be used for a similar purpose. Compared to the tuning fork Weber (TFW) test, performing the audiometric Weber (AW) test offers many advantages. Nevertheless, AW and TFW tests' performance compared to pure‐tone audiometry (PTA) has yet to be studied. The present study aimed to determine the accuracy and agreement between the AW and TFW tests compared to PTA.

Methods

In this observational cross‐sectional study, 74 participants (aged 12‐67 years) with unilateral conductive hearing loss (CHL) or bilateral asymmetrical CHL were enrolled. The TFW test was performed according to the established protocol at 256 and 512 Hz. For the AW test, the bone vibrator was placed in the middle of the forehead, where 250 and 500 Hz frequencies were tested. TF and AW test results were then compared with the expected lateralization from the respective PTA results.

Results

At 256 Hz (or 250 Hz), the overall accuracy values of TFW and AW tests were 81.1% and 86.5%, respectively. At 512 Hz (or 500 Hz), the overall accuracy results of TFW and AW tests were 85.1% and 82.4%, respectively. In addition, the kappa statistics revealed substantial agreements between the two tests and PTA (k = .63‐.72).

Conclusion

Both AW and TFW tests are reasonably accurate in assessing patients with CHL. It is recommended for audiologists to perform the simple AW test to verify incomplete or questionable audiograms that are commonly encountered in clinical practice.

Level of evidence

Level 3b.
A learning health system approach to the COVID‐19 pandemic: System‐wide changes in clinical practice and 30‐day mortality among hospitalized patients
Authors: McCreary Erin K. , Kip Kevin E. , Bariola J. Ryan , Schmidhofer Mark , Minnier Tami , Mayak Katelyn , Albin Debbie , Daley Jessica , Linstrum Kelsey , Hernandez Erik , Sackrowitz Rachel , Hughes Kailey , Horvat Christopher , Snyder Graham M. , McVerry Bryan J. , Yealy Donald M. , Huang David T. , Angus Derek C. , Marroquin Oscar C.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Rapid, continuous implementation of credible scientific findings and regulatory approvals is often slow in large, diverse health systems. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic created a new threat to this common “slow to learn and adapt” model in healthcare. We describe how the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) committed to a rapid learning health system (LHS) model to respond to the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A treatment cohort study was conducted among 11 429 hospitalized patients (pediatric/adult) from 22 hospitals (PA, NY) with a primary diagnosis of COVID‐19 infection (March 19, 2020 ‐ June 6, 2021). Sociodemographic and clinical data were captured from UPMC electronic medical record (EMR) systems. Patients were grouped into four time‐defined patient “waves” based on nadir of daily hospital admissions, with wave 3 (September 20, 2020 ‐ March 10, 2021) split at its zenith due to high volume with steep acceleration and deceleration. Outcomes included changes in clinical practice (eg, use of corticosteroids, antivirals, and other therapies) in relation to timing of internal system analyses, scientific publications, and regulatory approvals, along with 30‐day rate of mortality over time.

Results

The mean (SD) daily number of admissions across hospitals was 26 (29) with a maximum 7‐day moving average of 107 patients. System‐wide implementation of the use of dexamethasone, remdesivir, and tocilizumab occurred within days of release of corresponding seminal publications and regulatory actions. After adjustment for differences in patient clinical profiles over time, each month of hospital admission was associated with an estimated 5% lower odds of 30‐day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.95, 95% confidence interval: 0.93‐0.97, P < .001).

Conclusions

In our large LHS, near real‐time changes in clinical management of COVID‐19 patients happened promptly as scientific publications and regulatory approvals occurred throughout the pandemic. Alongside these changes, patients with COVID‐19 experienced lower adjusted 30‐day mortality following hospital admission over time.
SnOct2‐Catalyzed and Alcohol‐Initiated ROPS of l‐Lactide—Control of the Molecular Weight and the Role of Cyclization
Authors: Kricheldorf Hans R. , Weidner Steffen M. , Scheliga Felix
Published: January 2022

Ring‐opening polymerizations (ROP) of l‐lactide (LA) are conducted in bulk at 130, 160, or 180 °C and are initiated with two different alcohols at 160 °C. The lactide/initiator ratio (LA/In) is varied from 50/1 (20/1 at 180 °C) to 900/1 and the lactide/catalyst ratio (LA/Cat) between 2000/1 and 8000/1. At all temperatures a nearly perfect control of number average molecular weight (Mn) via the LA/In ratio is feasible up to LA/In = 200/1, but at higher ratios the Mn value lags behind the theoretical values and the discrepancy increases with higher LA/Cat ratios. Variation of the LA/Cat ratio influences the formation of cycles but does not significantly influence Mn, when the LA/In ratio is kept constant. The formation of cycles is favored by lower In/Cat ratios and is the main reason for the unsatisfactory control of Mn at high LA/In ratios. The results also suggest that the cycles are mainly or exclusively formed by end‐to‐end cyclization and not, as believed previously, by back‐biting.
Incorporation of a Coumarate Based Corrosion Inhibitor in Waterborne Polymeric Binders for Corrosion Protection Applications
Authors: Quites Diulia , Leiza Jose Ramon , Mantione Daniele , Somers Anthony , Forsyth Maria , Paulis Maria
Published: January 2022

The incorporation of organic corrosion inhibitors into waterborne coatings is optimized in this work. Herein, p‐coumaric acid (4‐hydroxycinnamic acid) is modified by a butyl radical and its effectiveness as an anticorrosive free inhibitor in solution is confirmed by potentiodynamic polarization (PP). The molecule is then successfully incorporated into waterborne polymeric binders by employing different polymerization techniques in dispersed media. Whenever possible, the inhibitor is also blended into the bare latexes to compare the effect of the incorporating method. The anticorrosion performance of the obtained coatings is tested and compared by electrochemical analysis. Promising results are obtained for the coatings produced by semibatch emulsion polymerization even at the low concentration of 1.5 mg of inhibitor g−1 latex. The intact control coating without inhibitor shows an impedance of up to 106 Ω and a phase angle of 72° after 1 h of immersion in the corrosive medium, meanwhile the coating with inhibitor shows higher values, 106.7 Ω and 80°. Active corrosion inhibition is observed in the coating with inhibitor in which a defect has been done, as the impedances drop to 103.9 Ω after 24 h of immersion in the saline solution while in the control scratched coating it drops to 103.6 Ω.
Progress in partial least squares structural equation modeling use in marketing research in the last decade
Authors: Sarstedt Marko , Hair Joseph F. , Pick Mandy , Liengaard Benjamin D. , Radomir Lăcrămioara , Ringle Christian M.
Published: January 2022

Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) is an essential element of marketing researchers' methodological toolbox. During the last decade, the PLS‐SEM field has undergone massive developments, raising the question of whether the method's users are following the most recent best practice guidelines. Extending prior research in the field, this paper presents the results of a new analysis of PLS‐SEM use in marketing research, focusing on articles published between 2011 and 2020 in the top 30 marketing journals. While researchers were more aware of the when's and how's of PLS‐SEM use during the period studied, we find that there continues to be some delay in the adoption of model evaluation's best practices. Based on our review results, we provide recommendations for future PLS‐SEM use, offer guidelines for the method's application, and identify areas of further research interest.
Manipulated and Improved Photoinduced Deformation Property of Photoresponsive Liquid Crystal Elastomers by Copolymerization
Authors: Liu Zui , Guo Guangqiang , Liao Junqiu , Yuan Yongjie , Zhang Hailiang
Published: January 2022

Photoresponsive liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) have aroused much attention due to their unique structures, properties, and potential applications. However, many reported photoresponsive LCEs show small photoinduced deformation with a slow deformation speed, which limits their application to a certain extent. In this article, multiple hydrogen bond component and biphenyl component was introduced into photoresponsive LCEs bearing cyanostilbene by copolymerization, and prepared a series of LCEs CSm‐BPn (CS and BP means cyanostilbene and biphenyl component, respectively; m, n means the content ratio of CS and BP). All uniaxially oriented CSm‐BPn fibers show photoinduced deformation behavior under 365 nm UV light except for CS0‐BP5. The introduction of hydrogen bond and the decrease of glass transition temperature realize large deformation and fast deformation speed. Besides, the properties of LCEs are successfully regulated by changing the content ratio of each component. What's more interesting is that the addition of appropriate amount of biphenyl can significantly improve and manipulate the deformation property of the CSm‐BPn fibers. The maximum bending angle can reach 175°, and the whole photoinduced deformation process only takes 11 s. The photoresponsive LCEs with such large bending angle and fast deformation rate are rarely reported.