bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targetable Conformationally Restricted Cyanines Enable Photon‐Count‐Limited Applications**
Authors: Eiring Patrick , McLaughlin Ryan , Matikonda Siddharth S. , Han Zhongying , Grabenhorst Lennart , Helmerich Dominic A. , Meub Mara , Beliu Gerti , Luciano Michael , Bandi Venu , Zijlstra Niels , Shi Zhen‐Dan , Tarasov Sergey G. , Swenson Rolf , Tinnefeld Philip , Glembockyte Viktorija , Cordes Thorben , Sauer Markus , Schnermann Martin J.
Published: October 2021

Cyanine dyes are exceptionally useful probes for a range of fluorescence‐based applications, but their photon output can be limited by trans‐to‐cis photoisomerization. We recently demonstrated that appending a ring system to the pentamethine cyanine ring system improves the quantum yield and extends the fluorescence lifetime. Here, we report an optimized synthesis of persulfonated variants that enable efficient labeling of nucleic acids and proteins. We demonstrate that a bifunctional sulfonated tertiary amide significantly improves the optical properties of the resulting bioconjugates. These new conformationally restricted cyanines are compared to the parent cyanine derivatives in a range of contexts. These include their use in the plasmonic hotspot of a DNA‐nanoantenna, in single‐molecule Förster‐resonance energy transfer (FRET) applications, far‐red fluorescence‐lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), and single‐molecule localization microscopy (SMLM). These efforts define contexts in which eliminating cyanine isomerization provides meaningful benefits to imaging performance.
Reutilization of melamine‐formaldehyde foam wastes: Removing Sn2+ in simulated tin‐containing wastewater to transform a fire hazard suppressant of flexible poly(vinyl chloride)
Authors: Qiu Xiaoqing , Wang Daqian , Li Qing , Li Xiaoyue , Zhao Xiaowei , Li Zhiwei , Li Xiaohong , Zhang Zhijun
Published: October 2021

Melamine‐formaldehyde (MF) foam has wide applications due to good flame retardancy, excellent sound absorption, and high thermal stability. However, the recycling of MF foam wastes remains a challenge due to its thermosetting nature. Here, we demonstrate a new strategy for discarded foams as solid adsorbents for removing tin ions in simulated tin‐containing wastewater. Results showed that the removal rate of tin in simulated wastewater is as high as 99.996%. Moreover, after simple calcination, as‐obtained products can be used as high‐efficiency flame retardants for flexible poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), reducing the peak of heat release rate and total smoke production of PVC by 51.8% and 45.8%, respectively, under the condition of 2.5 wt.% addition. In short, this strategy successfully converted MF foam and tin wastewater to valuable flame retardants, opening the way for the environmentally friendly recycling of MF waste and the simultaneous treatment of tin‐containing wastewater.
A Structured Review of the Literature on Abusive Head Trauma Prevention
Authors: Roygardner Debangshu , Hughes Kelli N. , Palusci Vincent J.
Published: October 2021

We searched the US National Library of Medicine's PubMed, Google Scholar and the American Psychological Association's Psychinfo databases during September 2019 for citations and abstracts on abusive head trauma (AHT) and shaken baby syndrome prevention dated 1 January 2000 to 31 August 2019. We identified 53 empirical studies and performed a structured review to identify the effects of prevention, if any, on AHT. We identified three lines of investigation that have focused on: (i) strategies which teach parents how to respond to newborn crying and the dangers of shaking babies; (ii) community and public health factors; and (iii) professional education and practice. Most studies were observational, although a small number used sophisticated designs such as prospective or randomised controlled trials. We note other strengths and weaknesses of these articles and suggest future directions for research in each of these areas based on the current level of scientific inquiry.

‘Identified 53 empirical studies and performed a structured review to identify the effects of prevention… on AHT’

Key Practitioner Messages

Research on AHT prevention is limited, although a growing research base supports teaching parents how to respond to newborn crying and about the dangers of shaking babies.

Social care systems addressing provision of material and other support have positive effects on AHT rates.

Professional education should improve practitioners' identification of families with increased risk and enhance AHT identification and treatment.

Those wishing to prevent AHT should consider multilevel approaches and their own community needs, practice setting, and patient/client risk profiles when designing strategies.
Bone mineralization and immediate function of six dental implants in patients with Klinefelter syndrome
Authors: Ciobanu Galina , De Angelis Francesca , Slabari Eugen , Pompa Giorgio
Published: October 2021

Patients with Klinefelter syndrome face many challenges in oral treatment and bone mineralization due to multiple systemic dysfunctions. This case report follows the geometrical treatment with immediate implant loading of an adult male patient with Klinefelter syndrome. Satisfactory results were demonstrated in clinical follow‐up.
Multidisciplinary approach to a septic COVID‐19 patient undergoing veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and receiving thoracic surgery
Authors: Bruni Andrea , Garofalo Eugenio , Mazzitelli Maria , Voci Carlo P. , Puglisi Armando , Quirino Angela , Marascio Nadia , Trecarichi Enrico M. , Matera Giovanni , Torti Carlo , Longhini Federico ,   UMG COVID‐19 Group
Published: October 2021

A multidisciplinary approach appears to be fundamental for the treatment of critically ill patients with COVID‐19, improving clinical outcomes, even in the most severe cases. Such severe cases are advisable to be collegially discussed between intensivists, surgeons, infectious disease, and other physicians potentially involved.
Postoperative recurrence of myxoid liposarcoma of left thigh with pericardial metastasis: A case report
Authors: Huang Wen‐peng , Li Li‐ming , Gao Jian‐bo
Published: October 2021

Myxoid liposarcoma (MLS) is a common subtype of liposarcoma in children and adolescents and can occur anywhere in the body. Cardiac metastases from MLS are very rare. We report a rare case of postoperative recurrence of MLS in the left thigh with ectopic and metachronous pericardial metastases. Cardiac metastases from MLS are rare, the prognosis is poor, and long‐term follow‐up of patients after discharge is necessary.
A case of difficult‐to‐diagnose non‐invasive papillary squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix infected with human papilloma virus 6: A diagnostic pitfall
Authors: Sone Kenbun , Inoue Futaba , Taguchi Ayumi , Hinata Munetoshi , Ikemura Masako , Miyamoto Yuichiro , Michihiro Tanikawa , Ohno Tamami , Iriyama Takayuki , Mori‐Uchino Mayuyo , Tsuruga Tetsushi , Mishima Misako , Osuga Yutaka
Published: October 2021

We encountered HPV6‐positive cervical papillary squamous cancer (PSCC) that was difficult to diagnose. The case was initially diagnosed and treated for condyloma. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of HPV6 infection in PSCC.
Ultrathin Nickel‐doped ZnIn2S4 Nanosheets with Sulfur Vacancies for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Liu Wangxi , Chen Jianmin , Pan Xueling , Wang Tingting , Li Yingwei
Published: October 2021

Introducing vacancies and element doping are effective approaches to boost photocatalytic activities of metal sulfides. In this work, sulfur vacancies and nickel dopants were simultaneously introduced into ultrathin ZnIn2S4 nanosheets (ZIS NSs) to explore their synergistic role in promoting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. The S vacancies can trap the photo‐generated electrons, lower the conduction band minimum (CBM), improve the photo‐generated charge reduction capacity and prolong the carrier lifetime. Meanwhile, Ni dopants cause an increase in the Fermi level (EF), which ensures a higher charge density and an effective carrier separation efficiency. The optimum hydrogen evolution rate of sample Ni0.05−VS−ZIS reaches 8.91 mmol g−1 h−1 under visible light due to the synergistic effect of the S vacancies and Ni dopants.
Recent Progress on In Situ/Operando Characterization of Rechargeable Alkali Ion Batteries
Authors: Sun Zehang , Zhang Yamin , Liu Yang , Hou Linrui , Yuan Changzhou
Published: October 2021

The specific chemical and physical evolutions of electrode materials under operating conditions should be understood to optimize their electrochemical performances. The in‐situ/operando techniques including Raman spectrum, transmission electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray absorption spectrum, and magnetization are powerful tools, which can provide the real‐time surficial/interfacial changes of electrodes, the transformation of crystal lattice structures, the adjustment of electronic states and even the influence of magnetic properties under operating conditions. In this Review, the advantages and limitations of these in‐situ/operando techniques in investigating the inner energy storage mechanisms of various type electrode materials are analyzed. The representative research results such as the ion dependent storage mechanism, step‐alloying processes and space charge storage theory are highlighted. In addition, the challenges and opportunities of in‐situ/operando characterizations are proposed as well.
Adequate immune response after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and single dose vaccination despite rapid heart transplantation
Authors: Erbel‐Khurtsidze Sophiko , Immohr Moritz Benjamin , Akhyari Payam , Tudorache Igor , Aubin Hug , Bruno Raphael Romano , Westenfeld Ralf , Feldt Torsten , Lübke Nadine , Lichtenberg Artur , Boeken Udo
Published: October 2021

Adequate immune response to vaccination remains a challenge in patients after solid organ transplantation. We report a case of a 61‐year‐old male patient who received a left ventricular assist device as a bridge to transplant therapy. Three months before transplantation, he suffered mild SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and was successfully discharged thereafter. Eight days before his successful heart transplantation, he received mRNA BNT 162b2 vaccination. Immediately after transplantation, we detected sufficient rise of nucleocapsid and spike antibodies despite immune suppression therapy. We suspect potential booster effects of the previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection giving rise to adequate immune response following single vaccination.
Asymmetric Methods for Carbon‐Fluorine Bond Formation
Authors: Remete Attila M. , Nonn Melinda , Escorihuela Jorge , Fustero Santos , Kiss Loránd
Published: October 2021

As a consequence of the ever‐increasing relevance of fluorinated drugs in medicinal chemistry, organofluorine chemistry has become a hot topic research area during the last decade. Asymmetric carbon‐fluorine bond‐forming reactions have enormously developed in recent years with considerable findings related to novel reactions and synthetic approaches. These new synthetic efforts have contributed to the access to a growing number of fluorinated molecules and complex natural or synthetic products of high relevance in medicinal chemistry and drug research. Illustrative examples of novel synthetic methodologies, including organocatalytic processes, asymmetric syntheses or phase‐transfer catalytic methods for the enantioselective incorporation of fluorine atom(s) into versatile molecular entities, are covered in the current Review, focusing on main contributions of the last ten years.
Electrochemical Affinity Sensors Using Field Effect Transducer Devices for Chemical Analysis
Authors: Halima Hamdi Ben , Errachid Abdelhamid , Jaffrezic‐Renault Nicole
Published: October 2021

The review presents advances and main challenges of the affinity sensors based on field‐ effect transistors published during the last five years. The different nanomaterial‐based field‐effect transistors are classified according to the nature of the nanomaterials, beginning by silicon, the “gold‐standard” semiconductor, the gallium nitride semiconductor, the organic semiconductors, the silicon nanowires, the inorganic nanomaterials, the carbon nanotubes and the graphene. Due to its exceptional electrical properties, the main works are devoted to graphene. The obtained analytical performances for the detection of biomarkers, of DNA sequences and of miRNA are listed. The relation between the operational conditions ‐ nature of the nanomaterials, procedure of preparation, choice of the receptor molecule, method of immobilization – and the analytical performance are discussed. The perspective of industrialization of these affinity sensors based on field‐effect transistors is discussed.
Trace Metal Residues in Marine Mussels: A Global Survey
Authors: Cledon Maximiliano , Tremblay Louis A. , Griffiths Charles , Fadhlaoui Mariem , Champeau Olivier , Albentosa Marina , Besada Victoria , Fernandez Victor H. , McKindsey Christopher W. , Bendell Leah I. , Zhang Bin , Garcia-Esquivel Zaul , Curiel Sergio , Brar Satinder K. , Kumar Pratik , Laroche Olivier , Couture Patrice
Published: October 2021

Pressures from anthropogenic activities are causing degradation of estuarine and coastal ecosystems around the world. Trace metals are key pollutants that are released and can partition in a range of environmental compartments, to be ultimately accumulated in exposed biota. The level of pressure varies with locations and the range and intensity of anthropogenic activities. The present study measured residues of trace metals in Mytilus mussel species collected from a range of locations around the world in areas experiencing a gradient of anthropogenic pressures that we classified as low, moderate, or high impact. The data showed no grouping/impact level when sampling sites in all countries were incorporated in the analysis, but there was significant clustering/impact level for most countries. Overall, high-impact areas were characterized by elevated concentrations of zinc, lead, nickel, and arsenic, whereas copper and silver were detected at higher concentrations in medium-impact areas. Finally, whereas most metals were found at lower concentrations in areas classified as low impact, cadmium was typically elevated in these areas. The present study provides a unique snapshot of worldwide levels of coastal metal contamination through the use of Mytilus species, a well-established marine biomonitoring tool. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:3434–3440. © 2021 SETAC
Speculation or hedging?—Options trading prior to FOMC announcements
Authors: Jiang George J. , Pan Guanzhong
Published: October 2021

This paper investigates options trading activity before Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) announcements. We find evidence that informed traders use options to speculate on their private information for the upcoming FOMC announcements. Specifically, abnormal trading volume of call options on S&P 500 index during the preannouncement window positively predicts postannouncement index returns, and this predictability mainly comes from near‐the‐money call options. Moreover, we further break down trading volume based on the direction of trades and show that buyer‐initiated call option trading volume positively predicts postannouncement index returns. We find no evidence that investors use options to hedge postannouncement market uncertainty.
Youth Gangs as Pseudo‐Governments: Implications for Violent Crime
Authors: Sobel Russell S. , Osoba Brian J.
Published: October 2021

We hypothesize that the failure of government to protect the rights of individuals from violence committed by youths has led to the formation of youth gangs as protective agencies. Our theory predicts an opposite direction of causality between gang activity and violent crime from what is widely accepted. While areas with more gang activity also have more violence, our results suggest that gangs form as protection agencies precisely in areas with high violent crime rates. While gangs, like governments, use violence to enforce rules, the net impact of gangs is likely to lower violent crime. We test this hypothesis and offer policy implications.
The Neglect of Correlation in Allocation Decisions
Authors: Kallir Ido , Sonsino Doron
Published: October 2021

We study the effect of variation in correlation on investment decision in an experimental two‐asset application. Comparison of allocations across problems suggests that subjects neglect probabilistic information on the joint distribution of returns and base their allocations on the observed return levels for the two assets. When asked to predict future returns, subjects try to replicate the historical distribution, thereby falling into the probability‐matching bias. Predictions drastically vary when correlations become negative, while allocations are not significantly affected by changes in sign of correlation. The observed allocation patterns contradict the predictions of standard models of choice; the inconsistency is attributed to common behavioral bias in financial decision. Field implications of the results are discussed.
Public School Reform, Expectations, and Capitalization: What Signals Quality to Homebuyers?
Authors: Zahirovic‐Herbert Velma , Turnbull Geoffrey K.
Published: October 2021

This paper offers new evidence on how housing markets capitalize school quality information. We use school assessment measures and house transaction data from a single school district that is coterminous with a unified city‐county local government to examine the effects of two school assignment policy changes. The unusual school district‐city‐county government structure minimizes properly tax rate and public service variation across observations, reducing the source of one problem that plagues many capitalization studies. The school reassignment events reveal direct ties between school quality capitalization and households' expectations—the latter reflected in private school enrollment and tax referendum voting. Different school performance measures convey different information to home owners. In particular, student test scores do not affect house prices when broader school performance measures are published. Prices respond to measured school improvement, but improvements in a given school are more highly valued than being reassigned to a better school.
Heterogeneous Workers and Occupations: Inequality, Unemployment, and Crowding Out
Authors: Khalifa Sherif
Published: October 2021

This article attempts to determine the factors behind the cyclical behavior of the skill premium. Using the Current Population Survey Outgoing Rotation Group, the premium is found uncorrelated with contemporaneous output and lags the business cycle. To account for this observation, the article develops a framework that features search frictions. Agents are either high or low educated, and firms post two types of vacancies: the complex, which can be matched with the high educated, and the simple, which can be matched with the high and the low educated. On‐the‐job search for a complex occupation is undertaken by the high educated in simple occupations. An aggregate technological shock induces firms to increase their posting of simple and complex vacancies. As complex vacancies are more costly to create than simple ones, the increase in the former lags that of the latter. As the number of complex vacancies increases with a lag, on‐the‐job search intensity increases on the expense of the hours of work of the high educated in simple occupations. On the other hand, the total hours of the high educated in complex occupations increases. This lagged cyclical increase in the labor input of the high educated in complex occupations causes the skill premium to increase with a lag as well.
External Macroeconomic Factors and the Link between Short‐ and Long‐Run European Interest Rates: A Note
Authors: Camarero Mariam , Ordóñez Javier , Tamarit Cecilio
Published: October 2021

This article analyzes the long‐run relationships linking long‐ and short‐run interest rates for the Euro‐wide aggregated variables. To this end, we extend the set of variables traditionally involved in the Campbell and Shiller (1987) framework for the term structure to add external macro variables (the exchange rate, U.S. inflation, and U.S. short‐run interest rates). Our results support the expectations hypothesis and also stress the importance of accounting for foreign economy influences on European monetary policy, namely, the real exchange rate of the American dollar as well as real interest rates.
Tariff Jumping and Joint Ventures
Authors: Beladi Hamid , Marjit Sugata , Chakrabarti Avik
Published: October 2021

It is well known that high tariffs tend to induce foreign direct investment (FDI) by encouraging the investors to jump the “tariff wall.” This paper examines the economic interaction among tariffs, FDI, and international joint ventures (IJV). We show that in the presence of a strong local competitor, even if opening a fully owned subsidiary is not profitable to a foreign firm, the foreign firm may still enter the host country market through IJV. However, IJV is not profitable for sufficiently high tariff rates. Hence, we argue that liberal trade policies may attract foreign investments through the formation of joint ventures.
The Diffusion of a Medical Innovation: Is Success in the Stars? Further Evidence
Authors: Burke Mary A. , Fournier Gary M. , Prasad Kislaya
Published: October 2021

Burke, Fournier, and Prasad (2007) present evidence of star effects in the adoption and utilization of stents following their introduction in the mid‐1990s. Here, we experiment with alternative constructions of star status and with additional control variables in the analysis and find further supporting evidence. Conditioning star status upon prior adoption of stents yields significant effects on the utilization of stents by nonstars. in contrast, the results show no evidence that the number of nonstars present affects the utilization of stars. Moreover, the empirical effect is stronger when the definition of star physicians is restricted to those with more recent residency training. We argue for further research focusing on asymmetric aspects of peer effects among physicians interacting locally in medical practice environments.
Tlr2/4‐Mediated Hyperinflammation Promotes Cherubism‐Like Jawbone Expansion in Sh3bp2 (P416R) Knockin Mice
Authors: Fujii Yasuyuki , Monteiro Nelson , Sah Shyam Kishor , Javaheri Homan , Ueki Yasuyoshi , Fan Zhichao , Reichenberger Ernst J , Chen I‐Ping
Published: October 2021

Cherubism (CBM), characterized by expansile jawbones with multilocular fibrocystic lesions, is caused by gain‐of‐function mutations in SH3 domain‐binding protein 2 (SH3BP2; mouse orthologue Sh3bp2). Loss of jawbone and dental integrity significantly decrease the quality of life for affected children. Treatment for CBM is limited to multiple surgeries to correct facial deformities. Despite significant advances made with CBM knockin (KI) mouse models (Sh3bp2KI/KI), the activation mechanisms of CBM lesions remain unknown because mutant mice do not spontaneously develop expansile jawbones. We hypothesize that bony inflammation of an unknown cause triggers jawbone expansion in CBM. To introduce jawbone inflammation in a spatiotemporally controlled manner, we exposed pulp of the first right mandibular molar of 6‐week‐old Sh3bp2+/+, Sh3bp2KI/+, and Sh3bp2KI/KI mice. Bacterial invasion from the exposed pulp into root canals led to apical periodontitis in wild‐type and mutant mice. The pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs)‐induced inflammation of alveolar bone resulted in jawbone expansion in Sh3bp2KI/+ and Sh3bp2KI/KI mice. CBM‐like lesions developed exacerbated inflammation with increased neutrophil, macrophage, and osteoclast numbers. These lesions displayed excessive neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) compared to Sh3bp2+/+ mice. Expression levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α were increased in periapical lesions of Sh3bp2+/+, Sh3bp2KI/+, and Sh3bp2KI/KI mice and also in plasma and the left untreated mandibles (with no pulp exposure) of Sh3bp2KI/KI mice, suggesting a systemic upregulation. Ablation of Tlr2/4 signaling or depletion of neutrophils by Ly6G antibodies ameliorated jawbone expansion induced by PAMPs in Sh3bp2KI/KI mice. In summary, successful induction of CBM‐like lesions in jaws of CBM mice is important for studying initiating mechanisms of CBM and for testing potential therapies. Our findings further emphasize a critical role of host immunity in the development of apical periodontitis and the importance of maintaining oral health in CBM patients. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A culturally targeted video to promote genetic counseling in a community sample of at‐risk US Latina women: The role of the concrete mindset
Authors: Carrera Pilar , Sheppard Vanessa B. , Caballero Amparo , Gómez‐Trillos Sara , Hurtado‐de‐Mendoza Alejandra
Published: October 2021

Latina women, who are at increased risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC), have lower use of genetic counseling and testing (GCT) than non‐Hispanic White women. In a recent study, culturally targeted video improved psychosocial outcomes related to GCT. Additional analyses examine whether the culturally targeted video improved positive reactions in women who focus on difficulties (concrete mindset) versus women who focus on the final goals (abstract mindset). Participants (N = 32) completed surveys before and immediately after watching the video. The surveys measured attitudes, emotions, and women's mindset. Before watching the video, women with a concrete mindset reported more negative attitudes and negative emotions about GCT than women with an abstract mindset. After watching the video, women with a concrete mindset reported negative attitudes and feelings at levels comparable to those of women with an abstract mindset, reflecting a reduction in their negative attitudes and emotions. The sample size limits the power to find statistically significant differences. Results support the relevance of considering the audience's mindset in the development and testing of public health messages to promote the use of GCT.
Posttraumatic growth experiences of refugees: A metasynthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Şimşir Gökalp Zeynep , Haktanir Abdulkadir
Published: October 2021

Although forced displacement may lead to many adverse psychological problems, this experience may also result in positive psychological consequences. Given the increasing disturbance in countries, many people are forcibly displaced, a comprehensive understanding of the posttraumatic growth (PTG) experiences of refugees is warranted. In this study, we examined 12 primary studies exploring PTG among refugees using the qualitative metasynthesis method. Our analysis of the primary studies consisting of 319 adults revealed four themes: (a) improved psychologic functioning; (b) enhanced interpersonal relationships; (c) reconstruction of the meaning of life; and (d) positive future direction. These findings indicate that no matter how traumatic experiences are painful, people can hold on to life, build a new life, and grow from adversity.
Evaluation of onset, cessation and seasonal precipitation of the Southeast Asia rainy season in CMIP5 regional climate models and HighResMIP global climate models
Authors: Hariadi Mugni Hadi , van der Schrier Gerard , Steeneveld Gert‐Jan , Sopaheluwakan Ardhasena , Tank Albert Klein , Roberts Malcolm John , Moine Marie‐Pierre , Bellucci Alessio , Senan Retish , Tourigny Etienne , Putrasahan Dian
Published: October 2021

Representing the rainy season of the maritime continent is a challenge for global and regional climate models. Here, we compare regional climate models (RCMs) based on the coupled model intercomparison project phase 5 (CMIP5) model generation with high‐resolution global climate models with a comparable spatial resolution from the HighResMIP experiment. The onset and the total precipitation of the rainy season for both model experiments are compared against observational datasets for Southeast Asia. A realistic representation of the monsoon rainfall is essential for agriculture in Southeast Asia as a delayed onset jeopardizes the possibility of having three annual crops. In general, the coupled historical runs (Hist‐1950) and the historical force atmosphere run (HighresSST) of the high‐resolution model intercomparison project (HighResMIP) suite were consistently closer to the observations than the RCM of CMIP5 used in this study. We find that for the whole of Southeast Asia, the HighResMIP models simulate the onset date and the total precipitation of the rainy season over the region closer to the observations than the other model sets used in this study. High‐resolution models in the HighresSST experiment showed a similar performance to their low‐resolution equivalents in simulating the monsoon characteristics. The HighresSST experiment simulated the anomaly of the onset date and the total precipitation for different El Niño‐southern oscillation conditions best, although the magnitude of the onset date anomaly was underestimated.
Medical Management for Eustachian Tube Dysfunction in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Mehta Neil K. , Ma Cheng , Nguyen Shaun A. , McRackan Theodore R. , Meyer Ted A. , Lambert Paul R.
Published: October 2021

Objective

Medical treatment for eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is varied, with physician preference driving treatment choice and limited guidance for these options. An evaluation of the efficacy of medical management (MM) for ETD is warranted.

Methods

A systematic review of three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Embase) was performed through December 2020. Adults treated nonsurgically for ETD were included. Exclusion criteria were as follows: patulous ETD, ETD deriving from craniofacial anomalies, or surgical treatment. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. A meta‐analysis of continuous measures, proportions, and risk ratio was conducted.

Results

Twelve articles were identified by systematic review, with either level 2 or 3 evidence. A meta‐analysis of available data was performed on nine studies. A pooled cohort found 50.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 41.7–59.0) of patients experienced symptomatic improvement with MM. ETDQ‐7 scores improved in a clinically nonsignificant manner by −0.88 (95% CI, −1.12 to −0.64) following medical treatment. Further, MM benefited from subacute and chronic symptoms in 30% to 64% and 11% to 50% of cases, respectively. Intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) were not efficacious, improving only 11% to 18% of chronic cases. Therapies such as Politzer devices and Valsalva therapy had minimally beneficial results.

Conclusion

Our review did not find any level 1 evidence for MM of ETD in adults. Available evidence indicates INCS are ineffective for chronic symptoms and the efficacy of nonsurgical options for subacute ETD has yet to be determined. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to discern efficacy of single‐agent medical therapies. Laryngoscope, 132:849–856, 2022
Theoretical and in vivo investigations of morphology and concentration of gold nanoparticles for laser surgery
Authors: Xing Linzhuang , Li Dong , Chen Bin , Gan Hongwan , Zhong Yu
Published: October 2021

Background and Objective

Precise control of the thermal damage is critical during thermal therapy with the assistance of gold nanoparticles, which depends on the laser parameters and characteristics of gold nanoparticles. However, the current understanding of the relationship between the gold nanoparticles/incident laser light and the efficiency of photothermal therapy is limited, which should be studied systematically.

Materials and Methods

In this study, theoretical simulations were conducted to investigate the influence of laser wavelength, the size and shape of gold nanoparticles, and the distance of the particle in complex nanostructures on the optical properties and temperature distribution after laser irradiation, aiming to achieve maximum photothermal conversion efficiency and therapeutic effect during the laser treatment of port wine stains. Thereafter, gold nanoparticles were prepared and in vivo experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect on thermal damage of blood vessels.

Results

For the laser wavelength at 532 nm, gold nanospheres with diameters of 20 nm are ideal in terms of temperature rise. The optimized particle distance is 5 nm and the corresponding concentration is 0.26 mg/ml. For Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm, gold nanorods with an aspect ratio of 6.3 and an effective radius of 12.7 nm are the most effective photothermal agents. The optimized particle distance is 4 nm, yielding the optimal concentration of 0.017 mg/ml. In vivo results demonstrated that using gold nanoparticles following our simulations as photothermal agents can greatly enhance the thermal damage of diseased blood vessels, reducing the laser energy and laser pulses required for the obvious thermal response of blood vessels.

Conclusion

For different laser wavelengths used in clinics in the near future, theoretical models presented in this study can be employed to obtain the morphology of single gold nanoparticle and the concentration of nanoparticles solutions, thereby obtaining the optimal photothermal conversion and enhanced thermal damage assisted by gold nanoparticles.
How to strategically choose or combine augmented and virtual reality for improved online experiential retailing
Authors: Hilken Tim , Chylinski Mathew , Keeling Debbie I. , Heller Jonas , de Ruyter Ko , Mahr Dominik
Published: October 2021

Despite the promise of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to help experiential retailers align online and offline experiences, guidance on choosing or combining these technologies is lacking. In three experiments, we address this research gap by investigating the individual and combined impact of AR and VR on key marketing objectives. First, we establish that AR is more effective in stimulating purchase intentions than VR, due to its ability to support customers in fluent product‐focused mental imagery. Second, we demonstrate that VR is better suited for improving brand attitudes than AR, as it helps customers to form fluent context‐focused mental imagery. Third, we show that AR and VR, in combination, can improve both purchase intentions and brand attitudes, but only when the order of deployment is sequenced as AR then VR. This is due to greater alignment with the customer's online‐to‐offline journey in experiential retail. When deployed the other way around, we observe a detrimental impact on purchase intentions and a potential harmful impact on brand attitudes. Our research offers a nuanced theoretical perspective of AR and VR in marketing and provides experiential retailers with evidence‐based guidelines for leveraging AR and VR within their online retailing strategy.
Recent Advances of Porous Materials Based on Cyclodextrin
Authors: Feng Jun‐Feng , Tan Min , Zhang Sheng , Li Bang‐Jing
Published: October 2021

Porous materials have attracted significant attention because of their rising applications in many fields. Cyclodextrins (CDs) are suitable building units in the fabrication of porous materials owing to their intrinsic nanoporous structure, easy modification, and biocompatibility, which may result in the formation of CD‐based organic frameworks (including cyclodextrin metal‐organic frameworks (CD‐MOFs) and cyclodextrin covalent organic frameworks (CD‐COFs)), and CD‐based polymer hybrid porous materials. This review focuses on the recent progress in the fabrication and applications of CD‐based porous materials with novel structures and functionalities.
Automatic segmentation of organs‐at‐risks of nasopharynx cancer and lung cancer by cross‐layer attention fusion network with TELD‐Loss
Authors: Liu Zuhao , Sun Chao , Wang Huan , Li Zhiqi , Gao Yibo , Lei Wenhui , Zhang Shichuan , Wang Guotai , Zhang Shaoting
Published: October 2021

Purpose: Radiotherapy is one of the main treatments of nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) and lung cancer. Accurate segmentation of organs at risks (OARs) in CT images is a key step in radiotherapy planning for NPC and lung cancer. However, the segmentation of OARs is influenced by the highly imbalanced size of organs, which often results in very poor segmentation results for small and difficult‐to‐segment organs. In addition, the complex morphological changes and fuzzy boundaries of OARs also pose great challenges to the segmentation task. In this paper, we propose a cross‐layer attention fusion network (CLAF‐CNN) to solve the problem of accurately segmenting OARs.

Methods: In CLAF‐CNN, we integrate the spatial attention maps of the adjacent spatial attention modules to make the segmentation targets more accurately focused, so that the network can capture more target‐related features. In this way, the spatial attention modules in the network can be learned and optimized together. In addition, we introduce a new Top‐K exponential logarithmic Dice loss (TELD‐Loss) to solve the imbalance problem in OAR segmentation. The TELD‐Loss further introduces a Top‐K optimization mechanism based on Dice loss and exponential logarithmic loss, which makes the network pay more attention to small organs and difficult‐to‐segment organs, so as to enhance the overall performance of the segmentation model.

Results: We validated our framework on the OAR segmentation datasets of the head and neck and lung CT images in the StructSeg 2019 challenge. Experiments show that the CLAF‐CNN outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art attention‐based segmentation methods in the OAR segmentation task with average Dice coefficient of 79.65% for head and neck OARs and 88.39% for lung OARs.

Conclusions: This work provides a new network named CLAF‐CNN which contains cross‐layer spatial attention map fusion architecture and TELD‐Loss for OAR segmentation. Results demonstrated that the proposed method could obtain accurate segmentation results for OARs, which has a potential of improving the efficiency of radiotherapy planning for nasopharynx cancer and lung cancer.
Follow‐up of obstetric fistula repair using Singapore fasciocutaneous flap and/or gracilis muscle flap
Authors: Maljaars Lennart P. , Nundwe William , Roovers Jan‐Paul W. R. , Pope Rachel J.
Published: October 2021

Aims

To report on the follow‐up of obstetric fistula repair using vascularized surgical flaps, namely the Singapore fasciocutaneous flap, the gracilis muscle flap, or a combination of both.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study reports on the follow‐up of 60 patients after fistula repair with a vascularized surgical flap at the Fistula Care Center in Lilongwe, Malawi. The primary outcome was fistula closure based on patients’ self‐reported continence grade. Secondary outcomes were urinary incontinence based on a 1‐h pad‐weight test, quality of life based on the Incontinence Quality of Life (I‐QOL) questionnaire, surgical complications, and the indication for additional surgery after repair.

Results

Successful closure was achieved in 62% of cases and full continence was achieved in 12% of cases. Incontinence based on a 1‐h pad weight test improved between surgery and follow‐up. QOL scores based on the I‐QOL were low but patients indicated moderate to great improvement in quality of life. Twenty‐two (37%) patients experienced surgical complication, mostly minor wound breakdowns. No major complications were reported. Six (10%) patients were indicated for additional surgery during follow‐up.

Conclusion

The relative safety of the surgical procedures is shown in the findings of this study, including no reports on major complications during follow‐up. Vascularized flaps should be considered in complex fistula cases, especially in repeat cases and before considering urinary diversion as a last resort.
The effects of COVID‐19 on self‐management behaviours and service experiences in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Quirke‐McFarlane Sophia , Hodgkinson Anna , Weinman John , Meiyalagan Narthana , Prince Alexis C , Chamley Mark , Stevenson Jennifer M
Published: October 2021

This study explored the impact of COVID‐19 on adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) self‐management behaviours and service experiences within an ethnically diverse UK sample.

A cross‐sectional survey design was employed. An 18‐item survey was administered to suitable patients attending the Lambeth Diabetes Intermediate Care Team (South East London, UK) via text message (n=993) or post (n=62).

A total of 150 participants completed the survey, which revealed that 30% had changed their diabetes medication taking behaviour since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic for a number of reasons. Negative changes in physical activity levels and dietary behaviours were also reported. Of those who received a telephone consultation, high satisfaction levels were reported but a clear preference for face‐to‐face consultations was still present.

Our findings suggest that the COVID‐19 pandemic is having a negative impact on individuals with T2DM physical activity levels and dietary behaviours. Additionally, the findings indicate that although telephone consultations were highly accepted, many would prefer to receive a face‐to‐face consultation in future. Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons.
Screening for osteoporosis and fracture risk in women with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Roberts Brona , Connolly Grainne , Lewis Anthony , Lindsay John , Loughrey Clodagh , Nugent Ailish , Ryan Kathryn , Todd Peter , Wallace Ian
Published: October 2021

We aimed to determine the acceptability and productivity of systematic bone health screening in women with type 1 diabetes aged 50 or over.

We offered women aged 50 or over with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) DXA scans to screen for low bone density. We excluded women already on bone treatment or who had had previous scans within the last five years. If the result was completely ‘normal’ (according to World Health Organization criteria), no further action was taken. If the scan showed osteopenia or osteoporosis, we performed a comprehensive fracture risk assessment to decide on further management.

We offered DXA scanning to 58 women, of whom seven declined. Of the 51 women who attended, nine were diagnosed with osteoporosis. A further seven had osteopenia and a combination of other risk factors which warranted bone protection. All these 16 women were either offered osteoporosis treatment immediately or referred to our metabolic bone service. The average age of the women screened was 61.4 years (range 51–85), average body mass index 29.1kg/m2 (19.2–40.7) and average HbA1c 67.3mmol/mol (43–104). Twelve had stage 3–5 chronic kidney disease.

It was concluded screening for fracture risk among women with T1DM is highly acceptable to patients and yields a substantial proportion of women who may benefit from highly cost‐effective bone‐protecting agents. We recommend that centres caring for adults with T1DM consider how bone health assessment could be incorporated into their services, particularly for older female patients who are at high risk of falls and fractures. Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons.
Application of lung volume reduction surgery for a child with filamin A (FLNA) mutations
Authors: Burrage Lindsay C. , Heinle Jeffrey S. , Cerfolio Robert H. , Guillerman Robert P. , Patel Kalyani R. , Santiago Nahir C. , Hoover Wynton C. , Mallory George B.
Published: October 2021

Diffuse lung disease in early childhood due to mutations in the filamin A gene has been recently reported. Clinical outcomes vary among individuals indicating variability in phenotype but a substantial proportion of reported cases in early life have ended up in death or lung transplantation. We recently encountered a school‐aged child in whom the diagnosis of a filamin A mutation was delayed and the natural history of emphysematous lung disease was altered by serial lung volume reduction surgeries. She eventually underwent a bilateral lung transplant and we report the natural history of her disease and treatments applied herein.
Understanding the environmental factors related to the decrease in Pediatric Emergency Department referrals for acute asthma during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic
Authors: Dondi Arianna , Betti Ludovica , Carbone Claudio , Dormi Ada , Paglione Marco , Rinaldi Matteo , Gualtieri Maurizio , Scotto Fabiana , Poluzzi Vanes , Fabi Marianna , Lanari Marcello
Published: October 2021

Background

Lockdown measures during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic determined radical changes to behavioral and social habits, that were reflected by a reduction in the transmission of respiratory pathogens and in anthropogenic atmospheric emissions.

Objective

This ecological study aims to provide a descriptive evaluation on how restrictive measures during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic impacted Pediatric Emergency Department (PED) referrals for asthma exacerbations, and their potentially associated environmental triggers in Bologna, a densely populated urban area in Northern Italy.

Methods

Files of children evaluated for acute asthma during 2015 to 2020 at the PED of Sant'Orsola University Hospital of Bologna were retrospectively reviewed. Historical daily concentration records of particulate (PM2.5, PM10) and gaseous (NO2, C6H6) air pollutants, and pollen were concurrently evaluated, including specific PM chemical tracers for traffic‐related air pollution (TRAP).

Results

In 2020, asthma‐related PED referrals decreased compared to referral rates of the previous 5 years (p < 0.01). This effect was particularly marked during the first lockdown period (March to May), when the drastic drop in PED referrals was associated with a reduction of high‐priority cases up to 85% and by 54%, on average. A concomitant reduction in the concentrations of traffic‐related air pollutants was observed in the range of 40%–60% (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The lower rate of asthma exacerbations in childhood was in this study paralleled with reduced TRAP levels during the pandemic. Synergic interactions of the multiple consequences of lockdowns likely contributed to the reduced exacerbations, including decreased exposure to ambient pollutants and fewer respiratory infections, identified as the most important factor in the literature.
FITC characterization of a cathepsin B‐responsive nanoprobe for report of differentiation of HL60 cells into macrophages
Authors: Zhang Chengxing , Meng Jingjing , Zhang Yanhui , Huang Dehua , Yan Peiyang , Tan Bo , Jiang Haizhen , Deng Zongwu
Published: October 2021

A cathepsin B (Cat B)‐responsive optical nanoprobe is designed and prepared for report of HL60 differentiation into macrophage. A peptide sequence FRFK is linked to fluorescein (FITC) via the distant amino group of its lysine and N‐terminated with acrylic acid (AA) to yield a molecular fluorescent probe AA‐FRFK (FITC). The molecular probe is further embedded in poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) to form a fluorescent nanoprobe AA‐FRFK (FITC)@PLGA. The resultant optical nanoprobe is degradable by lysosomal Cat B, which is expressed in macrophages with a level of 5–10 times of that in HL60 cells. As a result, a significant decrease in fluorescence intensity is associated with the differentiation process of HL60 to macrophage and can be used as an indication of the differentiation process. The findings may pave a way toward the development of a universal in vitro labeling strategy of exogenous stem cells for report of in vivo cell differentiation by a dual‐mode imaging modality involving optical imaging and magnetic resonance imaging.