bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strengthened bond between intervention agent and participant in psychosocial and community programmes: From an administrative relationship to a technical‐affective bond
Authors: Daher Marianne , Rosati Antonia , Campero María José , Guarda Tamara , Bunster Elizabeth
Published: January 2022

Given the relevance of the bonds established between intervention agent and participant during the implementation of programmes with a psychosocial component, we studied an emblematic Chilean programme to overcome poverty based on psychosocial and community support: the Families Program. The participants were 21 people: 10 dyads composed of the program participants and their respective intervention agents, plus the head of the intervention team. We employed a qualitative methodology, conducted semi‐structured interviews, and performed descriptive and relational analysis following grounded theory guidelines. This process resulted in a comprehensive model of the strengthening of the bond established between intervention agent and participant. This model delimits three relevant dimensions of the agent–participant bond—technical, affective, and interactional—and we describe how they are articulated during the transition from an administrative relationship to a technical‐affective bond. Lastly, we discuss the processual and temporal construction of the bond as well as the relevance of considering its three dimensions. Likewise, we reflect on bonds as a way of humanizing psychosocial interventions and ponder the challenge of generating a progressive de‐bonding that fosters participants' autonomy.
Engineered Cyclohexylamine Oxidase with Improved Activity and Stereoselectivity for Asymmetric Synthesis of a Bulky Dextromethorphan Precursor and Its Analogues
Authors: Wu Xiaofan , Li Zhining , Lin Juan , Huang Zedu , Chen Fener
Published: January 2022

Cyclohexylamine oxidase CHAOCCH12‐C2 was previously discovered and utilized in the chemo‐enzymatic synthesis of (S)‐1‐(4‐methoxybenzyl)‐1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8‐octahydroisoquinoline ((S)‐1 a), the key precursor for the industrial production of antitussive dextromethorphan. Herein, structure‐guided semi‐rational engineering and random mutagenesis were applied to CHAOCCH12‐C2, resulting in an evolved variant WXF‐FM which possessed five point mutations: H68Q/E198G/L200V/I201L/V209S and displayed >15‐fold higher kcat and improved stereoselectivity towards (R)‐1 a relative to the WT enzyme. WXF‐FM‐catalyzed deracemization of 200 mM of rac‐1 a was achieved at gram‐scale under Turner's deracemization conditions, affording (S)‐1 a in 76 % isolated yield with 97 % ee, demonstrating the effectiveness and great potential of this enzyme in the practical, green synthesis of dextromethorphan. Two bulky analogues of (S)‐1 a were also afforded with much higher optical purities in WXF‐FM‐catalyzed reactions than those obtained in WT enzyme‐catalyzed reactions. Through conducting complete deconvoluting experiments, presence of strong cooperative effect was revealed, and the mutational effect of H68Q on (R)‐1 a was suggested to be possibly applicable to related cyclohexylamine oxidases. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations indicated the enlargement of binding and entrance cavities, and the formation of a new hydrogen‐bonding between FAD and (R)‐1 a both likely contributed to the enhanced catalytic activity.
Redox Replacement of Silver on MOF‐Derived Cu/C Nanoparticles on Gas Diffusion Electrodes for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Sikdar Nivedita , Junqueira João R. C. , Öhl Denis , Dieckhöfer Stefan , Quast Thomas , Braun Michael , Aiyappa Harshitha B. , Seisel Sabine , Andronescu Corina , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: January 2022

Bimetallic tandem catalysts have emerged as a promising strategy to locally increase the CO flux during electrochemical CO2 reduction, so as to maximize the rate of conversion to C−C‐coupled products. Considering this, a novel Cu/C−Ag nanostructured catalyst has been prepared by a redox replacement process, in which the ratio of the two metals can be tuned by the replacement time. An optimum Cu/Ag composition with similarly sized particles showed the highest CO2 conversion to C2+ products compared to non‐Ag‐modified gas‐diffusion electrodes. Gas chromatography and in‐situ Raman measurements in a CO2 gas diffusion cell suggest the formation of top‐bound linear adsorbed *CO followed by consumption of CO in the successive cascade steps, as evidenced by the increasingνC−H bands. These findings suggest that two mechanisms operate simultaneously towards the production of HCO2H and C−C‐coupled products on the Cu/Ag bimetallic surface.
MiR‐29b regulates Th2 cell differentiation in asthma by targeting inducible B7‐H3 and STAT3
Authors: Gu Wenjing , Li Gang , Zhang Weili , Zhang Xinxing , He Yanyu , Huang Li , Yan Yongdong , Ji Wei , Hao Chuangli , Chen Zhengrong
Published: January 2022

Background

MicroRNAs play an important role in T cell responses. However, how microRNAs regulate Th cells in asthma remains poorly defined.

Objective

In this study, we investigated the mechanism and pathways of miR‐29b regulating Th cells in asthma, in order to find new targets for asthma.

Methods

We detected miR‐29b, B7‐H3 and STAT3 in the peripheral blood of children with asthma, explored the relationship between these molecules and their effects on T cells through in vitro cell culture, and verified it by animal model.

Results

MiR‐29b levels were decreased in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells from children with asthma. Vitro studies found that the expression of miR‐29b in macrophages was decreased and the expression of B7‐H3 and STAT3 was increased after house dust mite (HDM) stimulation. After down‐regulation of miR‐29b in macrophages, the expressions of B7‐H3 and STAT3 in macrophages were increased and T cells differentiate into Th2 cells. After the addition of B7‐H3 or STAT3 antibodies, the differentiation of naive T cells into Th2 cells was reduced. In OVA induced mice asthmatic model, after the up‐regulation of miR‐29b in lung, the expression of B7‐H3 and STAT3 decreased in the lung tissues of mice, and the expression of Th2 cells and type II cytokine decreased simultaneously. The pathological changes of lung tissues were also alleviated.

Conclusion

The expression of miR‐29b is decreased in asthmatic children. MiR‐29b can inhibit Th2 cell differentiation by inhibiting B7‐H3 and STAT3 pathways at the same time, and reduce asthmatic immune inflammation.
RIPPA: Identification of MHC‐II Binding Peptides from Antigen Using a Yeast Display‐Based Approach
Authors: Liu Rongzeng , Jiang Wei , Li Ying , Mellins Elizabeth D.
Published: January 2022

Mapping MHC‐II binding peptides derived from an antigenic protein for potential CD4+ T‐cell epitopes has been challenging due to a lack of experimental approaches that are both quantitative and rapid. The rate‐limiting steps in current approaches include the construction of single MHC allele expressing cell lines and/or the purification of the MHC‐II allelic proteins for peptide elution (i.e., mass spectrometry) or in vitro peptide binding (i.e., ELISA) assays. These labor‐intensive steps typically take up to 4 months or more. In this protocol, we describe a system that uses yeast cells to display “empty” (i.e., without covalently linked peptides) MHC‐II heterodimers that are capable of binding exogenously added peptides of interest. This yeast‐MHC‐II system eliminates the time‐consuming soluble MHC‐II purification steps, allowing rapid identification of peptide ligands from protein antigens (RIPPA). The amount of peptide loading to MHC‐II or the extent of competition between indicator and competitor peptides at the surface of yeast cells can be quantitatively determined using flow cytometric analysis. Importantly, the protocol only takes ∼1 month from the construction of plasmids and the yeast display of “empty” MHC‐II to the quantitative determination of MHC‐II binding peptides from a given antigen. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Yeast display of “empty” MHC‐II

Support Protocol: Construction of yeast shuttle vector expressing “empty” MHC‐II

Basic Protocol 2: Peptide competition on the surface of yeast cells

Alternate Protocol: RIPPA in a 96‐well format
The effect of green strategies and eco‐innovation on Mexican automotive industry sustainable and financial performance: Sustainable supply chains as a mediating variable
Authors: Rodríguez‐González Rubén Michael , Maldonado‐Guzman Gonzalo , Madrid‐Guijarro Antonia
Published: January 2022

This work focuses on the study of how green strategies (GBS) and eco‐innovation (EI) contribute to increasing sustainable and financial performance in the context of the Mexican manufacturing industry, and whether these relationships are mediated by the practices involved in sustainable supply chains (SSCs). This analysis is carried out through an empirical study of a sample of 460 companies in the automotive industry. The results reveal direct positive effects of GBS and EI on performance both, sustainable and financial. In spite of the key role played by SSC, this variable only exerts a mediating effect on the sustainable performance. Nevertheless, although the significant direct effect of sustainable supply chains on financial performance is not verified, there is an indirect effect of supply chains on financial performance through their influence on sustainable development. The findings reveal important implications for managers. They provide rational arguments (increase in performance) that should motivate companies in the Mexican automotive industry to incorporate values, standards, and actions focused on reducing the effects of their activities on the environment. These considerations will lead to a change in behavior which is better aligned with global environmental demands.
Long non‐coding RNA OIP5‐AS1 (Cyrano): A context‐specific regulator of normal and disease processes
Authors: Wooten Serena , Smith Keriayn N.
Published: January 2022

Long non‐coding (lnc) RNAs have been implicated in a plethora of normal biological functions, and have also emerged as key molecules in various disease processes. OIP5‐AS1, also commonly known by the alias Cyrano, is a lncRNA that displays broad expression across multiple tissues, with significant enrichment in particular contexts including within the nervous system and skeletal muscle. Thus far, this multifaceted lncRNA has been found to have regulatory functions in normal cellular processes including cell proliferation and survival, as well as in the development and progression of a myriad disease states. These widespread effects on normal and disease states have been found to be mediated through context‐specific intermolecular interactions with dozens of miRNAs and proteins identified to date. This review explores recent studies to highlight OIP5‐AS1's contextual yet pleiotropic roles in normal homeostatic functions as well as disease oetiology and progression, which may influence its utility in the generation of future theranostics.
An efficient virtual machine allocation using single stage weapon target assignment model in cloud software‐defined network environment
Authors: Padmavathy T. , Anitha R.
Published: January 2022

With the rapid growth of the Internet, technological advancements, and the increasing number of cloud users, a paradigm transformation towards separate data and control planes with a centralized control point is taking place. As a result of this separation, software‐defined networks (SDNs) have distinct software controllers for routers and the capacity to manage network behavior. Virtual machine placement (VMP) and virtual machine migration (VMM) are two examples of SDN usage in data centers. The issue of VMP in cloud environments is a significant challenge that has been widely researched but not fully resolved. In this research, we used the single stage weapon target assignment (SSWTA) to model the virtual machine allocation (VMA) for jobs in order to maximize the resource utilization of the physical machines (PMs) by reducing idle time. Furthermore, this research proposes three algorithms: job assignment algorithms, PM allocation (PMA) using the least recently used (LRU) policy, and optimal VMA. The proposed VMA's performance is compared to other related VMA models such as first fit decreasing, and it is determined to be efficient in terms of resource utilization.
Physiological functional traits explain morphological variation of Ulva prolifera during the drifting of green tides
Authors: Guan Chen , Zhao Xinyu , Qu Tongfei , Zhong Yi , Hou Chengzong , Lin Zhihao , Xu Jinhui , Tang Xuexi , Wang Ying
Published: January 2022

Ulva prolifera green tides, one of the greatest marine ecological disasters, originate in the southern Yellow Sea of China and obtain the highest biomass in Haizhou Bay (latitude around 35° N) during northward drift. U. prolifera shows different morphologies from southern Haizhou Bay (SH) to northern Haizhou Bay (NH). Owing to the distinct nutrient environments between SH and NH, we hypothesized that thalli in NH with poor nutrients increased the surface area to volume ratio (SA:VOL) to better absorb nutrients. Here, we tested this hypothesis by comparing the SA:VOL of thalli in SH and NH. The results showed that the thalli in NH had a lower SA:VOL than those in SH, and SA:VOL had positive relationships with temperature and nutrients, contrary to the general hypothesis. The novel results suggested that morphological differences of U. prolifera were the result of developmental state rather than environmental acclimation. Indicators of reproduction (reproductive allocation ratio) were negatively related to variation in tissue contents of C, N, P, and crude protein, whereas indicators of growth (tissue contents of C, N, P, and crude protein) showed significant positive influences on SA:VOL. The results indicated that a trade‐off relationship between reproduction and growth existed in the northward drift. All the results suggested that physiological functional traits affected morphological variation of U. prolifera in different environmental conditions during the drifting of green tides. This study presents new insights into the opportunist species nature of U. prolifera through morphological variation and associated functional consequences.
Heat transfer and pressure drop through mono and hybrid nanofluid‐based photovoltaic‐thermal systems
Authors: Hormozi Moghaddam Mohsen , Karami Maryam
Published: January 2022

Using nanofluids in photovoltaic‐thermal systems enhances the overall efficiency; however, increasing the pressure drop and pumping power, because of the higher viscosity of nanofluids, is a challenging factor for the nanofluid‐based systems. In the present study, the thermohydraulic performance of the photovoltaic‐thermal system is compared using two water‐based nanofluids including hybrid Ag‐MgO and carbon nanotubes (CNT) nanofluids, as the working fluids. The effect of type and flow rate of the working fluid, nanoparticle concentration, and channel height on the friction factor and Nusselt number is studied using the numerical model. The model is validated using the experimental and numerical results and found that the relative errors of the results are less than 3.8% and 5.2%, respectively, which confirmed the model accuracy. The results showed that at a flow rate of 8 L/h, the volume fraction of 2%, and channel height of 10 mm, the system electrical efficiency, thermal efficiency, and friction factor using CNT nanofluid are, respectively, 0.04%, 1.31%, and 62% higher than those using base fluid and 0.03%, 0.89%, and 53% higher than those using Ag‐MgO nanofluid. It is also found that although increasing the nanoparticle concentration and decreasing the channel height improves the system efficiency, it increases the friction factor and pressure drop. Comparing the results using the mono and hybrid nanofluids showed that the thermal performance of the photovoltaic‐thermal system using CNT nanofluid is slightly better; however, the hydraulic system performance using hybrid Ag‐MgO nanofluid is improved.
Evaluation of dust production efficiencies in sandy sediments
Authors: Bhattachan Abinash , Tatlhego Mokganedi , Dintwe Kebonye , D'Odorico Paolo , Okin Gregory S.
Published: January 2022

Several studies have shown that dust emission (vertical flux, F) can be considered a constant fraction (k) of the saltating flux (horizontal flux, Q), that is,
. This coefficient of proportionality, or dust production efficiency factor, is often called the ‘k factor’ and is fundamentally related to soil properties especially soil texture. Beyond regional and global modeling applications, a practical utility of k is for air quality regulatory agencies where k can be used to estimate F based on only measurements of Q, which is more easily measured in the field. Only a few studies have directly estimated the k factor from soils within potential dust sources even though dust models that represent the sandblasting process typically utilize k. The goal of this study was to compare two methods to calculate k from sandy sediments and compare those estimates with an empirical method of calculating the k factor. The first method (method 1) used the difference between F calculated from two sets of sediment samplers whereas the second method (method 2) used a set of aerosol monitors to measure F. We found that the range of k values from our study are consistent with soil texture‐based estimates of k and also have the correct order of magnitude. Thus, any of the methods described in our study are appropriate for estimation of k for sandy soils.
Predictors of the amount of intake of Ready‐To‐Use‐Therapeutic foods among children in outpatient therapeutic programs in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Ochola Sophie , Ogada Irene A. , Odera Colleta A.
Published: January 2022

Ready‐to‐use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) therapy is a standard protocol for treating children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) admitted in Out‐Patient Therapeutic Programmes (OTP). The amount of RUTF to be consumed by a child is based on weight (200 kcal/kg body weight/day) as stipulated in the Kenya Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (IMAM) protocol for timely weight gain. There is limited information on the determinants of consumption of the correct amount of RUTF. This study sought to fill this gap by establishing the associations between the caregivers' and the child's characteristics and the amount of RUTF the child ate within a 24‐h recall period. We used a cross‐sectional study design and interviewed 200 caregivers of children 6–23 months of age admitted in four OTP centers in Nairobi Kenya. We used a researcher‐administered questionnaire to collect information from the caregivers. Seventy‐three percent of the children ate the recommended amount of RUTF. A smaller proportion (54.4%) of younger children (6–11 months of age) ate the recommended amount of RUTF compared to older children (12–17 months old and 18–23 months old at 89.1% and 82.8%, respectively). The predictors of consumption of the correct amount of RUTF were child's birth order—firstborn (AOR 29.92; 95% CI: 5.67–157.93) and children's age; 12–17 months old (AOR 5.19; 95% CI: 2.18–12.36) and 18–23 months (AOR 6.19 95% CI: 2.62), indicating that firstborn and older children were more likely to consume the correct amounts of RUTF. Caregivers' knowledge and correct practices in feeding a child with RUTF also predicted the consumption of the correct amount of RUTF. In conclusion, maternal and child characteristics are determinants of the consumption of the correct amount of RUTF by children in OTP.
Assessment of readiness for launching cloud computing services: The case of Ethio‐Telecom in Ethiopia
Authors: Mengesha Getachew H. , Musa Philip F. , Negash Solomon , Leuleged Ruth , Munchus George
Published: January 2022

A nation's telecom system plays an important role in its socio‐economic development. This case study assesses the technical and organizational readiness of Ethio‐Telecom to implement Cloud Computing services to serve Africa's fast‐growing demand for Cloud Computing. The study used the STOPE (Strategy, Technology, Organization, People, and Environment) model as a theoretical base. A structured survey questionnaire was used to gather data from 100 mid and operational level employees. An interview was conducted with top‐level officials to elicit information about the strategic direction of the company. We used structural equation modeling software for analyses and model testing. The SMART PLS results point to the appropriateness of the STOPE model for the assessment of Ethio‐Telecom's Cloud Computing readiness. Additional analysis revealed that Ethio‐Telecom's Strategy, Technology, Organization, and Environmental dimensions need only minor improvements while the People dimension requires significant improvements to successfully implement Cloud Computing services. We mapped interview and document analysis data to the STOPE model constructs. This qualitative approach further validated the results we got in the quantitative analysis. We believe the mixed methodology, SMART PLS for quantitative analysis and e‐Learning Readiness Survey to determine individual dimension readiness, and quantitative analysis, used in this study have added to the body of knowledge.
Data set and fitting dependencies when estimating protein mutant stability: Toward simple, balanced, and interpretable models
Authors: Bæk Kristoffer T. , Kepp Kasper P.
Published: January 2022

Accurate prediction of protein stability changes upon mutation (ΔΔG) is increasingly important to evolution studies, protein engineering, and screening of disease‐causing gene variants but is challenged by biases in training data. We investigated 45 linear regression models trained on data sets that account systematically for destabilization bias and mutation‐type bias BM. The models were externally validated on three test data sets probing different pathologies and for internal consistency (symmetry and neutrality). Model structure and performance substantially depended on training data and even fitting method. We developed two final models: SimBa‐IB for typical natural mutations and SimBa‐SYM for situations where stabilizing and destabilizing mutations occur to a similar extent. SimBa‐SYM, despite is simplicity, is essentially non‐biased (vs. the Ssym data set) while still performing well for all data sets (R ~ 0.46–0.54, MAE = 1.16–1.24 kcal/mol). The simple models provide advantage in terms of interpretability, use and future improvement, and are freely available on GitHub.
The diagnostic value of second ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration for thyroid nodules
Authors: Zhao Na , Yao Ming , Han Ruoling , Chen Wei , Zhang Fengjuan , Feng Yafeng
Published: January 2022

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of doing a second ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (US‐FNA) for thyroid nodules of different sizes that could not be diagnosed by the first US‐FNA.

Methods

One hundred and forty‐three patients (162 nodules) were diagnosed with suspected malignant thyroid nodules in a routine ultrasound examination, but since the diagnosis could not be confirmed by the cytology of the samples collected in the first US‐FNA, the patients underwent US‐FNA again 3 months later. The ultrasound results, cytology results, and postoperative pathology of these nodules were collected. The nodules were divided into three groups according to the largest diameter (L) of the thyroid nodules: Group 1, L < 0.5 cm, 26 nodules; Group 2, L = 0.5–1.0 cm, 76 nodules; and Group 3, L > 1.0 cm, 60 nodules.

Results

In the second US‐FNA, the overall diagnosis rate of the 162 thyroid nodules that could not be given a definitive diagnosis by the first US‐FNA was 51.8% (84/162). The definitive diagnosis rates of the nodules in Groups 1, 2, and 3 were 30.8% (8/26), 67.1% (51/76), and 41.7% (25/60), respectively. The diagnosis rate was the highest in Group 2, and the differences between this group and the other two groups were statistically significant (χ2 = 10.489, 8.801, p < 0.05 for both). The diagnostic accuracy rates of Groups 1, 2, and 3 were 100% (8/8), 96.1% (49/51), and 92% (23/25), respectively.

Conclusion

Second US‐FNA is highly recommended for such nodules.
An insight into microscopy and analytical techniques for morphological, structural, chemical, and thermal characterization of cellulose
Authors: Chakraborty Ishita , Rongpipi Sintu , Govindaraju Indira , B Rakesh , Mal Sib Sankar , Gomez Esther W. , Gomez Enrique D. , Kalita Ranjan Dutta , Nath Yuthika , Mazumder Nirmal
Published: January 2022

Cellulose obtained from plants is a bio‐polysaccharide and the most abundant organic polymer on earth that has immense household and industrial applications. Hence, the characterization of cellulose is important for determining its appropriate applications. In this article, we review the characterization of cellulose morphology, surface topography using microscopic techniques including optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Other physicochemical characteristics like crystallinity, chemical composition, and thermal properties are studied using techniques including X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. This review may contribute to the development of using cellulose as a low‐cost raw material with anticipated physicochemical properties.

Highlights

Morphology and surface topography of cellulose structure is characterized using microscopy techniques including optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy.

Analytical techniques used for physicochemical characterization of cellulose include X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis.
Optimizing the nutrition support care model: Analysis of survey data
Authors: Mundi Manpreet S. , Mechanick Jeffrey I. , Mohamed Elfadil Osman , Patel Jayshil J. , Bonnes Sara L. , Blackmer Allison B. , Christian Vikram J. , Hennessy Sara A. , Hurt Ryan T. , Jain Ajay , Kaspar Matthew B. , Katz Jennifer , Labossiere Reginald , Limketkai Berkeley N. , McCarthy Paul J. , Morrison Chet A. , Newberry Carolyn , Pimiento Jose M. , Rosenthal Martin D. , Taylor Beth , McClave Stephen A. ,   ASPEN Physician Engagement Committee
Published: January 2022

Background

Malnutrition is underrecognized and underdiagnosed, despite high prevalence rates and associated poor clinical outcomes. The involvement of clinical nutrition experts, especially physicians, in the care of high‐risk patients with malnutrition remains low despite evidence demonstrating lower complication rates with nutrition support team (NST) management. To facilitate solutions, a survey was designed to elucidate the nature of NSTs and physician involvement and identify needs for novel nutrition support care models.

Methods

This survey assessed demographics of NSTs, factors contributing to the success of NSTs, elements of nutrition education, and other barriers to professional growth.

Results

Of 255 respondents, 235 complete surveys were analyzed. The geographic distribution of respondents correlated with population concentrations of the United States (r = 90.8%, p < .0001). Most responding physicians (46/57; 80.7%) reported being a member of NSTs, compared with 56.5% (88/156) of dietitians. Of those not practicing in NSTs (N = 81/235, 34.4%), 12.3% (10/81) reported an NST was previously present at their institution but had been disbanded. Regarding NSTs, financial concerns were common (115/235; 48.9%), followed by leadership (72/235; 30.6%), and healthcare professional (HCP) interest (55/235; 23.4%). A majority (173/235; 73.6%) of all respondents wanted additional training in nutrition but reported insufficient protected time, ability to travel, or support from administrators or other HCPs.

Conclusion

Core actions resulting from this survey focused on formalizing physician roles, increasing interdisciplinary nutrition support expertise, utilizing cost‐effective screening for malnutrition, and implementing intervention protocols. Additional actions included increasing funding for clinical practice, education, and research, all within an expanded portfolio of pragmatic nutrition support care models.
Causes of readmissions for patients discharged on enteral nutrition
Authors: Palchaudhuri Sonali , Mehta Shivan J. , Snider Christopher K. , Parsikia Afshin , Hudson Lauren , Compher Charlene , Lewis James D. , Wu Gary D. , Pickett‐Blakely Octavia
Published: January 2022

Background and Aims

Patients discharged with enteral nutrition (EN) through an enteral access device (DCENs) are noted to have increased hospital readmissions, but data on the readmission causes are limited. We assessed the proportion of these readmissions attributed to EN and determined the contributing factors to readmissions.

Methods

Using electronic health record data, we conducted a retrospective cohort study of all hospital encounters in an academic, urban hospital from July 2017 to December 2019 with discharge with EN to find all unplanned readmissions at the same hospital within 90 days. For each readmission, we evaluated through chart review whether discharge documentation identified the primary cause of readmission to be EN‐related and evaluated for EN‐related plan adjustments upon discharge.

Results

Over the 30‐month period, there were 224 and 442 readmissions within 30 and 90 days for DCENs, respectively. EN‐related readmissions accounted for 20.5% of 30‐day readmissions and 16.7% of 90‐day readmissions. Among these, 44.6% (33 of 74) documented enteral access device issues, 40.5% (30 of 74) cited gastrointestinal symptoms that the team attributed to EN, and 14.9% (11 of 74) cited sodium imbalance. The EN plan was changed in 97.3% (72 of 74) of EN‐related readmissions and 32.3% (119 of 368) of EN‐unrelated admissions. 52.0% of 90‐day readmissions were within 90 days of initiating EN.

Conclusion

20.5% of readmissions for DCENs are related to EN, with 52.0% occurring within 90 days of initiating EN. Quality improvement interventions targeting postdischarge care may decrease hospital readmissions in this high‐risk and medically complex patient population.
Single‐cell Raman microspectroscopy‐based assessment of three intracanal disinfectants' effect on Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Liu Yuhan , Ma Yuying , Zhang Lijuan , Sun Xi , Yang Jiazhen , Li Xiuzhen , Li Fan , Chen Rongze , Zhu Pengfei , Xu Jian , Yang Fang
Published: January 2022

Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) is frequently encountered in asymptomatic, persistent endodontic infections; thus, its control and eradication via disinfectants are important. To explore a disinfectant formulation that is effective yet with minimal side effects, here, we evaluated the susceptibility of E. faecalis to three intracanal disinfectants. We quantitatively assessed and compared the growth‐ or metabolism‐inhibiting effects of intracanal disinfectants via minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum inhibitory concentration based on metabolic activity (MIC‐MA), based on the broth dilution test and D2O‐probed single‐cell Raman spectra (SCRS), respectively. For sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), the corresponding MIC was 0.45 g/L, 110 mg/L, and 6 mg/L, respectively. Under their respective MIC doses, metabolic activity of bacterial cells was reduced to 2%, 4%, and 2% remained at 8 h, yet recovered to a retention level of 90%, 97%, and 2% at 24 h. Despite the halting of growth, the remained metabolic activity suggests a “nongrowing but metabolically active” (NGMA) state that may lead to potential recurring infections. In contrast, at their respective MIC‐MA doses of 0.9 g/L, 220 mg/L, and 12 mg/L, metabolic activities of all cells were completely inhibited throughout 24‐h exposure. Furthermore, lower combined concentration of above three intracanal disinfectants can elicit equivalent metabolism‐inhibiting effect with that of solo use of each one at the MIC‐MA dose. Thus, binary combined use of disinfectants can outperform their solo use in controlling infection of E. faecalis and reducing side effects. In conclusion, the MIC‐MA derived from D2O‐probed single‐cell Raman microspectroscopy is a promising approach in quantitatively assessing disinfectants' antimicrobial efficacy via metabolic activity.
New Medium Bandgap Donor D‐A1‐D‐A2 Type Copolymers Based on Anthra[1,2‐b: 4,3‐b“:6,7‐c”'] Trithiophene‐8,12‐dione Groups for High‐Efficient Non‐Fullerene Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Keshtov Mukhamed. L. , Kuklin Serge. A. , Khokhlov Alexei.R. , Xie Zhiyuan , Alekseev Vladimir. G , Dahiya Hemraj , Singhal Rahul , Sharma Ganesh D.
Published: January 2022

A new acceptor unit anthra[1,2‐b: 4,3‐b': 6,7‐c'']trithiophene‐8,12‐dione (А3Т) (A2) is synthesized and used to design D‐A1‐D‐A2 medium bandgap donor copolymers with same thiophene (D) and A2 units but different A1, i.e., fluorinated benzothiadiazole (F‐BTz) and benzothiadiazole (BTz) denoted as P130 and P131, respectively. Their detailed optical and electrochemical properties are examined. The copolymers show good solubility in common organic solvents, broad absorption in the visible spectral region from 300 to 700 nm, and deeper HOMO levels of −5.45 and −5.34 eV for P130 and P131, respectively. Finally, an optimized polymer solar cell (PSC) based on P131 as the donor and narrow bandgap non‐fullerene small molecule acceptor Y6 demonstrated a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of >11.13%. To further improve the efficiency of the non‐fullerene PSC, the P130 is optimized by introducing a fluorine atom into the BTz unit, F‐BTz acceptor unit, and PCE PSC based on P130: Y6 active layer increased to >15.28%, which is higher than that for the non‐fluorinated analog P131:Y6. The increase in the PCE for former PSC is attributed to the more crystalline nature and compact π–π stacking distance, leading to more balanced charge transport and reduced charge recombination. These remarkable results demonstrate that A3T‐based copolymer P130 with F‐BTz as the second acceptor is a promising donor material for high‐performance PSCs.
Polymorphisms of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase 2 and alcohol dehydrogenase 1B on the malignant transformation of vocal cord leukoplakia: A Chinese cohort
Authors: Han Ping , Li Yixin , Liang Faya , Ye Yuchu , Wang Jingyi , Li Xiaojuan , Ouyang Nengtai , Huang Xiaoming
Published: January 2022

Severe dysplasia of vocal cord leukoplakia (VCL) is more likely to occur in laryngeal carcinoma. Alcohol dehydrogenase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase are both important enzymes in alcohol metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the incidence rate of malignant transformation in patients with VCL and the role of drinking habits and ALDH2 and ADH1B genetic polymorphisms in the malignant transformation of VCL. From January 2007 to January 2017, 136 cases of VCL were included in this retrospective analysis. Information on medical history, alcohol and tobacco consumption habits, ALDH2 and ADH1B genotypes, gastroesophageal reflux, and clinical pathological characteristics of VCL was collected. As a result, patients had a median follow‐up of 9.6 years (interquartile range: 7.5–12.5 years). Twenty‐three of 136 VCL patients finally developed laryngeal carcinoma, resulting in a cumulative malignant transformation rate of 16.9%. Cox regression analysis demonstrated that the independent risk factors for the malignant transformation of VCL included age over 60 years (hazard ratio [HR]: 13.872, p < 0.001), ALDH2 *2 allele status (HR: 9.694, p < 0.001), alcohol (HR: 10.011, p < 0.001) and tobacco (HR: 8.869, p < 0.001) exposure after operation, and drinking frequency (HR: 2.178, p = 0.016). Therefore, among patients over 60 years old, an ALDH2‐inactivating mutation and excessive ethanol and tobacco consumption are potential contributors to the malignant transformation of VCL.
The effects of entry in a model of sales1
Authors: Rouskas Evangelos
Published: January 2022

I revisit Varian's (1980) model of sales by introducing bidimensional consumer heterogeneity. In my version of the model, there are (i) informed consumers with high valuation; (ii) uninformed consumers with high valuation; (iii) informed consumers with low valuation; and (iv) uninformed consumers with low valuation. Depending on parameters, always one of the following three types of equilibrium exists: the deterministic partial participation, the probabilistic partial participation, and the deterministic full participation equilibrium. My main finding is that the impact of entry on the firms' expected price may be ambiguous. For example, when the status quo number of firms generates the probabilistic partial participation equilibrium, a new entrant may either increase or decrease the expected price.
Infectious Agents as Potential Drivers of α‐Synucleinopathies
Authors: Linard Morgane , Ravier Alix , Mougué Louisa , Grgurina Iris , Boutillier Anne‐Laurence , Foubert‐Samier Alexandra , Blanc Frédéric , Helmer Catherine
Published: January 2022

α‐synucleinopathies, encompassing Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and multiple system atrophy, are devastating neurodegenerative diseases for which available therapeutic options are scarce, mostly because of our limited understanding of their pathophysiology. Although these pathologies are attributed to an intracellular accumulation of the α‐synuclein protein in the nervous system with subsequent neuronal loss, the trigger(s) of this accumulation is/are not clearly identified. Among the existing hypotheses, interest in the hypothesis advocating the involvement of infectious agents in the onset of these diseases is renewed. In this article, we aimed to review the ongoing relevant factors favoring and opposing this hypothesis, focusing on (1) the potential antimicrobial role of α‐synuclein, (2) potential entry points of pathogens in regard to early symptoms of diverse α‐synucleinopathies, (3) pre‐existing literature reviews assessing potential associations between infectious agents and Parkinson's disease, (4) original studies assessing these associations for dementia with Lewy bodies and multiple system atrophy (identified through a systematic literature review), and finally (5) potential susceptibility factors modulating the effects of infectious agents on the nervous system. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Monte Carlo calculated calibration settings for commercially available nuclear medicine ionization chambers
Authors: Pain Cameron Dennis , O'Keefe Graeme Joseph , Scott Andrew Mark
Published: January 2022

Purpose

A method for calculating nuclear medicine ionization chamber (NMIC) calibration settings with a Monte Carlo model is presented and validated against physical measurements. This work provides Monte Carlo–calculated calibration settings for select isotopes with no current manufacturer recommendations and a method by which NMIC manufacturers or standards laboratories can utilize highly detailed specifications to calculate comprehensive lists of calibration settings for general isotopes.

Methods

A Monte Carlo model of a Capintec PET series NMIC was developed and used to calculate the chamber response to relevant radioactive decay products over an energy range relevant to nuclear medicine. The photon detection efficiency (PDE) of a high purity germanium (HPGe) detector was modeled and physically validated to facilitate measurements of NMIC calibration settings with HPGe detector spectroscopy. Modeled NMIC response to various isotopes was compared against spectroscopic measurements and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)‐validated calibration settings to validate the Monte Carlo–calculated NMIC calibration settings.

Results

HPGe detector PDE was validated against the physical measurements to within at confidence and used to measure calibration settings, which produced activity readings , , , and different than those validated by NIST for C, F, Ga, and Cu respectively. The Monte Carlo model of the NMIC reproduced measured calibration settings to within at confidence for isotopes with a sufficiently small yield of low energy photons.

Conclusions

A method of calculating NMIC calibration settings with Monte Carlo modeling has been developed and validated against HPGe detector spectroscopy. NMIC manufacturers or standards laboratories can use more detailed specifications of the chamber geometries to extend the applicability of this method to a wider range of isotopes.
The value of MUNIX as an objective electrophysiological biomarker of disease progression in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Okhovat Ali Asghar , Advani Soroor , Ziaadini Bentolhoda , Panahi Akram , Salehizadeh Saeideh , Nafissi Shahriar , Haghi Ashtiani Bahram , Rajabally Yusuf A. , Fatehi Farzad
Published: January 2022

Introduction/Aims

Objective outcome measures to monitor treatment response and guide treatment are lacking in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). In this study we aimed to evaluate the motor unit number index (MUNIX) as an outcome measurement in patients with CIDP and determine the correlation of MUNIX with functional and standard electrodiagnostic tests in a single follow‐up study.

Methods

We evaluated MUNIX of the abductor pollicis brevis, abductor digiti minimi, and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles bilaterally. Muscle force was assessed by Medical Research Council Sum Score (MRCSS). Functional measures used were the Overall Neuropathy Limitation Score (ONLS) and the Rasch‐built Overall Disability Scale (R‐ODS) score at baseline and after 6 months of treatment. Standard electrophysiology was evaluated by the Nerve Conduction Study Score (NCSS).

Results

Twenty patients were included at baseline, and 16 completed the follow‐up study. Significant correlations were found between the MUNIX sum score and both MRCSS and NCSS at baseline, between both the pinch strength and grip and upper limb MUNIX at baseline and follow‐up, and between MUNIX of TA and both lower limb MRCSSs with lower limb ONLS at baseline and follow‐up. Significant correlations also were found between MUNIX sum score change and MRCSS change, R‐ODS change, and ONLS change.

Discussion

MUNIX changes correlated with strength and electrophysiological improvements in CIDP patients. This suggests that MUNIX may represent a useful objective biomarker for patient follow‐up.
Review of needle electromyography complications in thrombocytopenic cancer patients
Authors: Zein Mazen , Tummala Sudhakar , Prince Laura , Fu Jack B.
Published: January 2022

Introduction/Aims

Needle electromyography (EMG) is understood to be a relatively safe procedure based on clinical experience. There are no evidence‐based guidelines for EMG procedures in thrombocytopenic patients. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is an increased risk of bleeding complications associated with needle EMG in patients with thrombocytopenia.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with a primary cancer and thrombocytopenia who underwent needle EMG between January 1, 2016 and October 30, 2020. Patients' medical records were reviewed for demographics; diagnoses; platelet counts within a 7‐day period of EMG examination; concurrent use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications; number of sites sampled by needle EMG, including anatomical differentiation of paraspinal and both deep and superficial limb muscles; and associated complications not limited to bleeding within 30 days of EMG examination.

Results

The initial data search identified 198 patients with a documented diagnosis of thrombocytopenia; 124 met these criteria and were included in the study. A total of 1001 muscle sample sites were documented, with 111 sites in paraspinal muscles, 876 sites in superficial limb muscles, and 14 sites within deep limb muscles. Five patients were concurrently using therapeutic anticoagulation and 3 were using antiplatelet medications. There were no clinically significant complications, but five minor incidents were documented in the medical records within 30 days post‐EMG examination.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that bleeding complications from standard needle EMG in oncology patients with documented thrombocytopenia are rare. Testing of high‐risk muscles in this patient population appears to be safe.
Free vibration optimization of a sandwich structure with a hybrid composite grid core
Authors: Kermani Alireza , Ehsani Amir
Published: January 2022

This study presents the multi‐objective optimization of weight and cost concerning the vibration behavior of a sandwich structure. In this regard, the maximization of frequency against the minimization of the structure's weight or cost is considered the objective functions in the optimization algorithm. For this purpose, a sandwich structure with two composite skins and an orthotropic grid core is designed. The design variables including the core geometrical variables, and the type of the applied composite materials for each group of stiffeners of the core. The first‐order shear deformation theory and the Ritz method have been used to obtain the natural frequencies of the plates. Eventually, optimization has been performed using the genetic algorithm.
Reassessing the role of tracheobronchomalacia in persistent wheezing
Authors: Guo Qian , Fu Wenlong , Du Jielin , Dai Jihong , Geng Gang , Yan Li , Yang Ting , Li Ying , Liu Jingyue , Chen Jianchuan , Liu Zheng , Yuan Xiaoping , Deng Dan , Tian Daiyin
Published: January 2022

Background

Tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) is often manifested as wheezing. Reassessing the role of TBM in persistent wheezing in children is essential.

Methods

We selected children who were diagnosed with TBM by bronchoscopy and who underwent bronchoscopic reexamination for persistent wheezing or chronic cough between January 2009 and July 2019. The clinical and bronchoscopy data were collected and retrospectively reviewed. For statistical analysis, we used the Kaplan–Meier method, Kruskal–Wallis test, and Fisher exact test.

Results

A total of 79 patients (57 males and 22 females) were included. The median age of the first TBM diagnosis was 7 (interquartile [IQR] 4–11) months. The median age of the first wheezing episode was 4 (IQR 3–7) months. During the time interval between the two bronchoscopies, malacia lesions resolved in 50 patients (63.3%), improvement was seen in 14 patients (17.7%), no change was observed in 11 patients (13.9%), and the condition was aggravated in 4 patients (5.1%). The malacia lesions in 37 patients resolved before 2 years of age. Among the 50 resolved patients, 22 patients (44.0%) reported wheezing three times or more between bronchoscopy evaluations, and 13 of these 22 patients (59.1%) with atopy or family history of allergic diseases were ultimately diagnosed with bronchial asthma.

Conclusions

In children with persistent wheezing, the role of TBM should be reassessed, especially in those with atopy or family history of allergic diseases, and bronchial asthma should be considered early.