bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dramatic response to pembrolizumab after pseudoprogression in a patient with advanced metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Kageyama Takumi , Soga Norihito , Sekito Sho , Kato Seiichi , Ogura Yuji , Kojima Takahiro , Kanai Masahiro , Inoue Takahiro
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Prostate cancer with a microsatellite instability‐high or mismatch repair‐deficient status is not common. Few reports of the response to pembrolizumab in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer in a real‐world setting have been reported. This case report describes a dramatic response to pembrolizumab after initial pseudoprogression in a patient with microsatellite instability‐high metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer.

Case presentation

A 70‐year‐old man was administered pembrolizumab for metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer after the genetic evaluation of lymphadenectomy revealed a microsatellite instability‐high status. His general condition dramatically improved after pseudoprogression. His favorable condition has been maintained for 1 year since the final dose.

Conclusion

We experienced a case of dramatic response to pembrolizumab after pseudoprogression in a patient with advanced metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer. In patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer and the microsatellite instability‐high/mismatch repair‐deficient phenotype, a few months follow‐up is necessary to evaluate the efficacy of pembrolizumab.
Nanoscale surface dynamics of spatial patterns of polymeric bilayered particles loaded with essential oil
Authors: Matos Robert Saraiva , da Costa Ítalo Carvalho , Yasumura Heloisa David , de Azevedo Sidney Gomes , Sanches Edgar Aparecido , da Fonseca Filho Henrique Duarte
Published: August 2022

Gelatin/PCL bilayered particles loaded with Piper nigrum essential oil was synthesized aiming to access their morphological and surface dynamic patterns. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was applied to investigate the 3D morphology and multifractal aspects of the particles surface. The AFM maps revealed spherical surfaces and well dispersed particles, besides a rougher surface on the loaded system. Minkowski functionals showed that shape of the rough peaks was similar in the unloaded and loaded systems; however, the presence of deep valleys on the loaded particles revealed their rougher pattern. Multifractal analysis revealed that unloaded and loaded particles presented multifractal behavior with different surface dynamics. The loaded surface presented a greater width of the multifractal spectrum and smaller difference of fractal dimensions, confirming their more vertically growing. These results can be useful in the development of novel polymeric‐based particles loaded with essential oil. Their unique surface dynamics can provide enhanced physical properties and performance in emerging biotechnological applications.
Ethical implications of early genetic diagnosis in an infant with Lesch–Nyhan syndrome
Authors: Zhang Tian , Briere Julie M. , Leeman Kristen T. , Wojcik Monica H. , Agrawal Pankaj B.
Published: August 2022

Pathogenic variants in HPRT1 lead to deficiency in hypoxanthine‐guanine phosphoribosyltransferase and are responsible for a spectrum of disorders. The severe phenotype is termed Lesch–Nyhan syndrome (LNS) and is inherited in an X‐linked recessive manner. Most individuals with LNS have profound intellectual and physical disabilities throughout life including self‐mutilating behaviors. Here, we present the case of a male infant who was diagnosed with LNS at 3 weeks of age via rapid exome sequencing (ES), which revealed a hemizygous maternally inherited deletion of at least 1.3 Mb of Xq26.3, including exons 2 to 9 of HPRT1. We discuss the critical time points leading to this diagnosis while highlighting his parents' values that guided the decision‐making. Genetic testing provided an early diagnosis for this infant that led to important considerations regarding goals of care in addition to raising new ethical concerns. This highlights the important role that early and rapid diagnostic genetic testing can play in helping families make difficult decisions. Additionally, this case highlights the complexity of discussing rare genetic diagnoses with families and facilitating critical discussions to empower the family toward making an informed decision.
Epstein–Barr virus seroprevalence and viral load at disease onset in children with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Kornitzer Gaël , Rosenstein Michelle , Turcotte Marie‐Catherine , Godin David , Groleau Véronique , Renaud Christian , Touzot Fabien , Jantchou Prevost , Ovetchkine Philippe , Deslandres Colette
Published: July 2022

Background and Aim

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at increased risk for life‐threatening complications of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), including lymphoproliferative diseases. These complications are likely related to inherent immune dysfunction and immunomodulating therapies often used. We aimed to determine the seroprevalence of EBV at diagnosis in our population, its impact on disease at onset, and the risk of active EBV infection.

Methods

We included patients newly diagnosed with IBD for whom an EBV serology was performed over a 2‐year period. Demographic information and data on disease characteristics were collected retrospectively. Stored serum from the time of diagnosis was retrieved when available for the patients with positive EBV serology, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction testing was performed to assess the pre‐treatment viral load of EBV.

Results

One hundred twenty patients were included in the study. Fifty‐three patients (44.2%) had positive EBV serology at diagnosis. Stratified by age group, the prevalence of seropositive patients was for 0 to <10 years 35%, 10 to <17 years 46%, and ≥17 years 50%. Overall, therapies started within 6 months of diagnosis were similar in both the seropositive and seronegative groups. Within the seropositive group, 66% received systemic corticosteroids, 32.1% infliximab, 5.7% adalimumab, and 5.7% azathioprine.

Conclusion

EBV seroprevalence is high in pediatric patients with IBD. EBV seropositivity did not seem to influence the severity of disease at onset or initial choice of therapy.
Clinical features of capsule endoscopy in young adults: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Xu Hui‐Wen , Chen Yi‐Ru , Wang Mei‐Qian , Zhu Sen‐Lin
Published: August 2022

Background and Aim

Capsule endoscopy (CE) has been used in clinical examination among people of various ages, while few studies exclusively focused on the young. We aimed to explore its clinical features in young adults and those with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB).

Methods

A total of 479 young adults aged 18–44 years were analyzed, with median age of 33 years. Primary positive findings of patients were classified into four kinds of lesions, and potential risk of bleeding among patients with OGIB was assessed based on Saurin classification (P0‐2 lesions).

Results

The overall completion rate and diagnostic yield of CE among young adults were 89.77 and 77.04%, respectively. Significant differences were found among overall completion rate/diagnostic yield and inpatient status/CE brand. Positive diagnostic yield among 157 patients with OGIB was 51.59% (P1‐2 lesions), and the significant risk of bleeding was 37.04% (P2 lesions). Among patients with OGIB in which 134 patients with a total of 216 lesions, ulceration was the commonest P2 lesions, followed by angioectasia and telangiectasia. Inpatient rate, completion rate, and diagnostic yield were higher among patients with overt OGIB, and disease categories of overt OGIB were different compared with occult OGIB.

Conclusion

CE is an optimal tool for discovering lesions in young adults and could play a role in evaluating the bleeding risk of young adults with OGIB.
The mod k $k$ chromatic index of graphs is O(k) $O(k)$
Authors: Botler Fábio , Colucci Lucas , Kohayakawa Yoshiharu
Published: July 2022

Let denote the minimum number of colors needed to color the edges of a graph in a way that the subgraph spanned by the edges of each color has all degrees congruent to . Scott proved that , and thus settled a question of Pyber, who had asked whether can be bounded solely as a function of . We prove that , answering affirmatively a question of Scott.
Capability‐sensitive principles for assistive technology to support young graduates with disabilities in Bangladesh and Kenya into employment
Authors: Morris Lisa‐Dionne , Abu Alghaib Ola , Northridge James
Published: July 2022

Owing to increased inclusion of young people with disabilities into the private sector in Bangladesh and Kenya, there is an urgent need to find alternative ways to support young graduates with a disability in the workplace with assistive technology solutions. The aim of the paper is to identify barriers for private workplace sectors to use assistive technology to support young graduates seeking, maintaining and retaining employment. This qualitative study adopted the research onion design of Saunders et al. Data were collected using interviews and focus group discussions and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that barriers are linked to seven key person‐centred capability themes: the dream, external factors, internal factors, assistive technology vision, strategic design priorities and gaps and assistive actions.
Methadone use is associated with increased levels of sCD14, immune activation, and inflammation during suppressed HIV infection
Authors: Azzoni Livio , Giron Leila B , Vadrevu Surya , Zhao Ling , Lalley-Chareczko Linden , Hiserodt Emily , Fair Matthew , Lynn Kenneth , Trooskin Stacey , Mounzer Karam , Abdel-Mohsen Mohamed , Montaner Luis J
Published: August 2022

Opioid use has negative effects on immune responses and may impair immune reconstitution in persons living with HIV (PLWH) infection undergoing antiretroviral treatment (ART). The effects of treatment with μ opioid receptor (MOR) agonists (e.g., methadone, MET) and antagonists (e.g., naltrexone, NTX) on immune reconstitution and immune activation in ART-suppressed PLWH have not been assessed in-depth. We studied the effects of methadone or naltrexone on measures of immune reconstitution and immune activation in a cross-sectional community cohort of 30 HIV-infected individuals receiving suppressive ART and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) (12 MET, 8 NTX and 10 controls). Plasma markers of inflammation and immune activation were measured using ELISA, Luminex, or Simoa. Plasma IgG glycosylation was assessed using capillary electrophoresis. Cell subsets and activation were studied using whole blood flow cytometry. Individuals in the MET group, but no in the NTX group, had higher plasma levels of inflammation and immune activation markers than controls. These markers include soluble CD14 (an independent predictor of morbidity and mortality during HIV infection), proinflammatory cytokines, and proinflammatory IgG glycans. This effect was independent of time on treatment. Our results indicate that methadone-based MOUD regimens may sustain immune activation and inflammation in ART-treated HIV-infected individuals. Our pilot study provides the foundation and rationale for future longitudinal functional studies of the impact of MOUD regimens on immune reconstitution and residual activation after ART-mediated suppression.
Genomic annotation and molecular evolution of monkeypox virus outbreak in 2022
Authors: Wang Lulan , Shang Jingzhe , Weng Shenghui , Aliyari Saba R. , Ji Chengyang , Cheng Genhong , Wu Aiping
Published: July 2022

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) has generally circulated in West and Central Africa since its emergence. Recently, sporadic MPXV infections in several nonendemic countries have attracted widespread attention. Here, we conducted a systematic analysis of the recent outbreak of MPXV‐2022, including its genomic annotation and molecular evolution. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that the MPXV‐2022 strains belong to the same lineage of the MPXV strain isolated in 2018. However, compared with the MPXV strain in 2018, in total 46 new consensus mutations were observed in the MPXV‐2022 strains, including 24 nonsynonymous mutations. By assigning mutations to 187 proteins encoded by the MPXV genome, we found that 10 proteins in the MPXV are more prone to mutation, including D2L‐like, OPG023, OPG047, OPG071, OPG105, OPG109, A27L‐like, OPG153, OPG188, and OPG210 proteins. In the MPXV‐2022 strains, four and three nucleotide substitutions are observed in OPG105 and OPG210, respectively. Overall, our studies illustrated the genome evolution of the ongoing MPXV outbreak and pointed out novel mutations as a reference for further studies.
Chitosan‐based matrix solid‐phase dispersion extraction assisted cell membrane magnetic bead ligand‐affinity assay for screening active compounds from Fructus Cnidii
Authors: Jiao Pan , Li Bing , Zhang Fan , Tang Cheng
Published: July 2022

Cell membrane ligand‐affinity assay is a useful tool for screening the active compounds from natural products. However, in traditional cell membrane ligand‐affinity assays, natural products need to be refluxed, before being analyzed. This process consumes considerable time and energy and cannot be used for screening natural products that contain thermally unstable compounds. Therefore, an efficient analytical method is required. In this study, chitosan‐based matrix solid‐phase dispersion extraction was combined with cell membrane magnetic bead ligand‐affinity assay to form a novel method for identifying the active compounds in Fructus Cnidii such as osthole and imperatorin. When compared with traditional cell membrane ligand‐affinity assays, this assay requires less energy, extraction time (7 min), solvent volume (1.2 mL), and fewer natural products (40 mg). This indicates that the chitosan‐based matrix solid‐phase dispersion extraction assisted cell membrane magnetic beads ligand‐affinity assay is an alternative analytical method for studying natural products.
Investigation on improvement of enantioseparation in capillary electrophoresis based on maltodextrin by chiral ionic liquids
Authors: Ma Xiaofei , Chen Bohua , Cai Liangliang
Published: August 2022

Taking advantage of chiral ionic liquids, this study deals with the improvement of the enantioseparation performance of a traditional chiral selector (maltodextrin) in capillary electrophoresis. Herein, two polyhydroxy compound‐based chiral ionic liquids, namely tetramethylammonium‐D‐gluconic acid and tetramethylammonium‐shikimic acid were designed and utilized as additives for chiral separation for the first time. The synergistic systems provided much better enantioseparations of twelve model drugs compared to the single maltodextrin system. These model analytes contained analgesics, antidepressants, antiallergic drugs, antifungal drugs, antihypertensive drugs, and antiparkinsonian drugs. After optimizing the separation conditions, the chiral recognition mechanism was probed by means of ultraviolet spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and molecular modeling. The results of spectroscopic and computational analyses were in good consistency with enantioseparation outcomes. Finally, the proposed method was successfully used for the determination of the enantiomeric purity of duloxetine hydrochloride.
Stabilization of the generalized Rao‐Nakra beam by partial viscous damping
Authors: Akil Mohammad , Liu Zhuangyi
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we consider the stabilization of the generalized Rao‐Nakra beam equation, which consists of four wave equations for the longitudinal displacements and the shear angle of the top and bottom layers and one Euler–Bernoulli beam equation for the transversal displacement. Dissipative mechanism are provided through viscous damping for two displacements. The location of the viscous damping are divided into two groups, characterized by whether both of the top and bottom layers are directly damped or otherwise. Each group consists of three cases. We obtain the necessary and sufficient conditions for the cases in group 2 to be strongly stable. Furthermore, polynomial stability of certain orders are proved. The cases in group 1 are left for future study.
Reduced‐field of view three‐dimensional MR acoustic radiation force imaging with a low‐rank reconstruction for targeting transcranial focused ultrasound
Authors: Luo Huiwen , Sigona Michelle K. , Manuel Thomas J. , Phipps Marshal A. , Chen Li M. , Caskey Charles F. , Grissom William A.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To rapidly image and localize the focus in MR‐guided focused ultrasound (FUS) while maintaining a low ultrasound duty cycle to minimize tissue effects.

Methods

MR‐acoustic radiation force imaging (ARFI) is key to targeting FUS procedures such as neuromodulation, and works by encoding ultrasound‐induced displacements into the phase of MR images. However, it can require long scan times to cover a volume of tissue, especially when minimizing the FUS dose during targeting is paramount. To simultaneously minimize scan time and the FUS duty cycle, a 2‐min three‐dimensional (3D) reduced‐FOV spin echo ARFI scan with two‐dimensional undersampling was implemented at 3T with a FUS duty cycle of 0.85%. The 3D k‐space sampling scheme incorporated uniform undersampling in one phase‐encoded axis and partial Fourier (PF) sampling in the other. The scan interleaved FUS‐on and FUS‐off data collection to improve displacement map quality via a joint low‐rank image reconstruction. Experiments in agarose and graphite phantoms and living macaque brains for neuromodulation and blood‐brain barrier opening studied the effects of the sampling and reconstruction strategy on the acquisition, and evaluated its repeatability and accuracy.

Results

In the phantom, the distances between displacement centroids of 10 prospective reconstructions and a fully sampled reference were below 1 mm. In in vivo brain, the distances between centroids ranged from 1.3 to 2.1 mm. Results in phantom and in vivo brain both showed that the proposed method can recover the FUS focus compared to slower fully sampled scans.

Conclusion

The proposed 3D MR‐ARFI reduced‐FOV method enables rapid imaging of the FUS focus while maintaining a low FUS duty cycle.
Retaining nurses via organizational support and pay during COVID‐19 pandemic: The moderating effect between intrinsic and extrinsic incentives
Authors: Pahlevan Sharif Saeed , She Long , Liu Li , Naghavi Navaz , Lola Gold Kafilah , Sharif Nia Hamid , Froelicher Erika Sivarajan
Published: July 2022

Aim

There has been growing concern about the nurses' turnover intention as well as life satisfaction during COVID‐19 pandemic in Iran. The past research has provided evidence on the effect of organizational support on nurses' job satisfaction and turnover intention. However, little is known about the underlying mechanism behind these associations.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey was undertaken.

Methods

An online survey was conducted in Iran from May to June 2020 through Google Docs Forms. In total, 305 nurses were participated and completed the online survey. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling through (AMOS). This study was checked with the STROBE checklist.

Result

The results showed that nurses' perception of organizational support was positively related to their job satisfaction which in turn decreases the turnover intention. Likewise, the job satisfaction partially mediated the relationship between organizational support and nurses' life satisfaction.
Changes in obesity and BMI among children and adolescents with selected chronic conditions during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Rifas‐Shiman Sheryl L. , Aris Izzuddin M. , Bailey Charles , Daley Matthew F. , Heerman William J. , Janicke David M. , Lin Pi‐I Debby , Petimar Joshua , Block Jason P.
Published: July 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine COVID‐19 pandemic‐related changes in obesity and BMI among patients aged 5 to <20 years with selected chronic conditions.

Methods

A longitudinal study in 293,341 patients aged 5 to <20 years who were prescribed one of five medication classes (for depression, psychosis, hypertension, diabetes, or epilepsy) and who had BMI measures from January 2019 to March 2021 was conducted. Generalized estimating equations and linear mixed‐effects models were used, accounting for within‐child repeated measures and stratified by age, race, ethnicity, gender, and class of medication prescribed, to compare obesity and BMI z score during the pandemic (June through December 2020) versus pre‐pandemic (June through December 2019).

Results

Obesity prevalence increased from 23.8% before the pandemic to 25.5% during the pandemic; mean (SD) BMI z score increased from 0.62 (1.26) to 0.65 (1.29). Obesity prevalence during the pandemic increased at a faster rate compared with pre‐pandemic among children aged 5 to <13 years (0.27% per month; 95% CI: 0.11%‐0.44%) and 13 to <18 years (0.24% per month; 95% CI: 0.09%‐0.40%), with the largest increases among children aged 5 to <13 years who were male (0.42% per month), Black (0.35% per month), or Hispanic (0.59% per month) or who were prescribed antihypertensives (0.28% per month).

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 pandemic has exacerbated the obesity epidemic and widened disparities among children with selected chronic conditions. These findings highlight the importance of continuing efforts to specifically help high‐risk populations who are experiencing weight gain from the pandemic.
Direct tensile test evaluation and characterization for mechanical and rheological properties of polymer modified hot mix asphalt concrete
Authors: Abed Mohammed A. , Al‐Tameemi Ahmed F. , Abed Alaa H. , Wang Yu
Published: July 2022

Using polymer to modify asphalt binder for better performance has become popular in pavement engineering, for which to evaluate the effect of polymer addition on the properties of the asphalt concrete is essential for mix design. Conventional mechanical test methods, primarily using bending of beams and indirect splitting, are not only materially and timely costly and labor intensive but also provide no direct information for the viscoelastic and rheological characteristics of the materials. This paper reports a study using direct tensile test (DTT) to evaluate the effect of polymer on both mechanical and rheological properties of modified asphalt concrete. Two types of polymers, which are styrene‐butadiene‐styrene (SBS), and a mixture of SBS and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), were investigated on two mixes using fine and coarse aggregates, respectively. It has been found that SBS generates improvement for both mechanical and rheological properties of hot mix asphalt concrete. However, using a hybrid mixture of SBS and PVC shows that PVC can further improve the mechanical properties, but deteriorate the toughness of the asphalt concrete. At the end, a simple quadric polynomial model has been proposed to characterize the combined SBS and PVC effects for the sake of the guidance for mix design.
The preconception period as a platform for preventing diabetes and non‐communicable diseases
Authors: Jacob Chandni Maria , Hanson Mark
Published: August 2022

Increasing evidence suggests that parental risk factors for non‐communicable diseases (NCDs) in the period before conception could affect their lifelong health and increase the risk of NCDs in the offspring. While many of these risks such as obesity, smoking and dietary patterns are influenced by wider socio‐economic factors, screening and identification of risk factors can be conducted in the clinical setting to provide appropriate preventive interventions. This article discusses the role of health care practitioners in preventing the risk of NCDs and opportunities for action in the preconception period.
In gestational diabetes, patient‐led insulin titration is rapidly effective, safe and is associated with reduced birthweight
Authors: Mayne Isabelle K , Rawdon Emma , Guerin Emma , McGovern Andrew P
Published: August 2022

Background: Elevated fasting glucose in gestational diabetes (GDM) is the strongest predictor of adverse pregnancy outcomes but is difficult to treat. We assessed the effectiveness, safety, and patient acceptability of a simple patient‐led insulin dose titration algorithm in GDM, targeting rapid reduction in fasting glucose.

Methods: Once initiated on basal insulin, women were asked to increase their dose by 4 units daily, following every fasting glucose ≥5.0mmol/L. We evaluated pregnancy outcomes, rates of hypoglycaemia and time taken to achieve target readings (<5.3mmol/L) before and after this practice change. We undertook patient interviews and questionnaires to capture the patient perspective.

Results: Insulin was commenced at a median 30+4 weeks with fasting glucose control (defined as the first of three consecutive readings <5.3mmol/L) achieved after a median 4 days (IQR: 1–11) and maintained throughout pregnancy with further patient‐led titrations. Hypoglycaemia was uncommon; 1.7% of all fasting glucose readings were <3.5mmol/L and 0.3% were <3.0mmol/L. No patients experienced hypoglycaemia requiring assistance. At delivery, patient‐led titration achieved higher final insulin doses (53 vs 36 units/day; p=0.027), improved fasting glucose (4.6 vs 5.1mmol/L; p=0.031), and significantly lower birthweight (Z‐scores 0.34 vs 0.92; p=0.005) compared to our previous routine practice. Women liked the intervention and having increased responsibility for their own management.

Conclusions: In GDM significant reduction in birthweight is achieved with patient‐led insulin dose titration. Following insulin initiation glycaemic control is achieved rapidly and maintained without detrimental hypoglycaemia. Copyright © 2022 John Wiley & Sons.
Novel Segregated Solid Propulsion System with Separately Stored Fuel and Oxidizer
Authors: Lichthardt Joseph P. , Tappan Bryce C. , De Narendra N. , Novak Alan M. , Baca Eva V. , Oschwald David M. , Risha Grant A.
Published: July 2022

The development and experimentation of a solid propulsion concept consisting of separate hydrogen‐rich solid propellant and solid oxidizer grains is presented. This system consists of an extremely fuel‐rich solid propellant, which, once ignited, undergoes a self‐sustaining decomposition to release fuel‐rich product gases, which are particularly rich in hydrogen gas. These relatively high‐temperature gases subsequently react with a solid oxidizer grain stored downstream. Progress in high‐nitrogen materials has allowed for the synthesis of fuel‐rich compounds that can store significant amounts of hydrogen, with little or no bound oxygen. With these new developments in propellant chemistry, a unique segregated propulsion system has been developed, creating an all‐solid propulsion system that combusts analogously to a reverse hybrid rocket system. Because of the physical separation of fuel and oxidizer, a higher level of safety is achieved which concurrently allows for the utilization of higher energy ingredients without the penalty of higher sensitivity. Theoretical performance calculations and experimental data have shown the potential for this system to compete with existing composite rocket propellants while having significant benefits in terms of safety, toxicity, and mission space. This paper presents a detailed overview of the conception, development, and testing of this propulsion system.
SSRI potentiation of methadone cardiotoxicity
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: August 2022

Methadone maintenance therapy, commonly used in the treatment of opioid use disorder, has been associated with electrocardiographic QT interval prolongation.1 With comorbid mental illness often seen in methadone‐treated patients,2 concurrent antidepressant use is likely. This results in a high potential for drug interaction, especially with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Severe disseminated primary varicella in a patient on long term inhaled corticosteroids
Authors: Pham James P. , Beale Greta , Gorji Mahdieh , Thompson Benjamin , Al‐Soufi Suhel , Stone Emily
Published: July 2022

Disseminated primary varicella infection can carry risks of significant morbidity and mortality particularly in immunocompromised populations. Routine, funded childhood vaccination against varicella has significantly reduced associated hospitalization and deaths, however, uptake and efficacy among adults is unknown. We present a case of disseminated primary varicella infection (including rash, pneumonitis, hepatitis and thrombocytopenia) in an immunocompetent patient on long term inhaled corticosteroids for asthma. This case highlights potential risk factors for severe varicella which require further study in adults and raises the need to discuss vaccination in at risk groups including appropriate counselling in those who may be at higher risk.
Severe and critical SARS‐COV‐2 delta variant infection in infants without underlying medical conditions
Authors: Borgi Aida , Louati Assaad , Miraoui Amal , Lahmar Lilia , Mefteh Khaoula , Hajji Ahmed , Ayari Ahmed , Bouziri Asma , Menif Khaled , Smaoui Hanen , Benjaballah Nejla
Published: July 2022

We report herein a case series of infants, with no comorbidities, who developed a life‐threatening illness due to the SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta variant. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of children, aged under 15 years, admitted to PICU, during the peak of Delta infection, between June 23 and August 16 2021, with severe and critical forms of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, confirmed by RT‐PCR. Twenty infants were included, the median age was 47 days (IQR: 26.5–77) and sex ratio was 0.8. No underlying medical conditions were noted. Parents were not vaccinated. Respiratory involvement was the main feature observed. Eleven patients had paediatric acute respiratory distress (PARDS) with a median oxygen saturation index (OSI) of 9 (IQR: 7–11). PARDS was mild in four, moderate in five, and severe in two cases. Hemodynamic instability was observed in 4 cases. The main radiological finding was ground glass opacities in 11 cases. Seventeen patients were mechanically ventilated, and three of them were escalated to high‐frequency oscillatory ventilation. The median duration of mechanical ventilation was 6 days (IQR 2.5–12.5). The remaining patients were managed with high‐flow nasal cannula. Four patients died.
Catalytic Decomposition of H2O2 for NO Oxidation‐Removal over Hierarchical Fe‐ZSM‐5: Effect of Ethanol on Zeolite Performance
Authors: Guo Wen , Lin Yuanhang , Chen Siqi , Diao Zhenheng
Published: August 2022

Hierarchical Fe‐ZSM‐5 zeolite catalysts hydrothermally prepared using tetrapropylammonium hydroxide (TPAOH) and [3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]octadecyldimethylammonium chloride (TPOAC) as micropore structure‐directing agent and meso‐porogen, respectively, were investigated for oxidation‐removal of NO via catalytic decomposition of gas‐phase H2O2 into hydroxyl free radicals (⋅OH). The effects of ethanol in synthesis gel on the structure, porosity, Fe species state, and catalytic performance of zeolite catalysts were explored. And the function mechanism of ethanol was speculated. Appropriate ethanol dosage in synthesis gel probably stabilized TPOAC micelles during MFI crystallization, facilitated mesopores integration in zeolite crystals, benefited oxygen vacancy formation, accelerated ⋅OH radicals generation, and thereby enhanced NO oxidation‐removal efficiency. The hierarchical Fe‐ZSM‐5 prepared with ethanol/H2O ratio of 1 in synthesis gel displayed an excellent catalytic activity with the optimal NO conversion up to 35.9 % enhancement compared to the microporous Fe‐ZSM‐5. The SO2 resistance and ⋅OH scavenger test during catalytic reaction, as well as the reaction condition influence on the catalytic performance of hierarchical Fe‐ZSM‐5 were explored, and then the oxidation‐removal mechanism of NO over hierarchical Fe‐ZSM‐5 was preliminarily proposed.
Efficient Synthesis of 4‐Bromo‐N‐(1‐phenylethyl)benzamide, Arylation by Pd(0) Catalyst, Characterization and DFT Study
Authors: Raza Shah Alı , Rasool Nasır , Bılal Muhammad , Mubarık Adeel , Alı Hashmı Muhammad , Nadeem Akhtar Muhammad , Imran Muhammad , Ahmad Gulraız , Siddiqa Ayesha , Adnan Alı Shah Syed
Published: August 2022

The (S)‐4‐bromo‐N‐(1‐phenylethyl)benzamide (3) was synthesized in excellent yield (93 %) by the reaction of 4‐bromobenzoic acid (1) and (S)‐1‐phenylethanamine (2) with the coupling reagent titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4). Further, the Pd(0) catalyst was employed to form (S)‐4‐bromo‐N‐(1‐phenylethyl)benzamide analogues (5 a‐i) by reacting various aryl boronic acids with 4‐bromo‐N‐(1‐phenylethyl)benzamide (3) in moderate to good yields (62‐89 %). Furthermore, DFT studies were carried out to compute optimized geometries, frontier molecular orbitals, polarizability (α), hyperpolarizability (β), MESP, reactivity descriptors, and NMR spectra. The measured NMR values matched the experimental NMR values well. In this series (5 a‐i), we predicted that the highest energy difference between the HOMO‐LUMO of compound (5 a) has 4.98 eV, resulting in a more stable compound, and compound (5 g) has the lowest energy difference between the HOMO‐LUMO 4.63 eV, resulting in the least stable compound. Compound (5h) has the highest hyperpolarizability (β) value, exhibits a better non‐linear optical (NLO) behaviour compared as compare to other synthesized compounds in the series.
2‐(1,2,4‐Oxadiazol‐5‐yl)aniline as a New Scaffold for Blue Luminescent Materials
Authors: Baykov Sergey , Tarasenko Marina , Kotlyarova Valentina , Shetnev Anton , Zelenkov Lev E. , Boyarskaya Irina A. , Boyarskiy Vadim P.
Published: August 2022

Condensation of amidoximes 1 with isatoic anhydrides 2 or esters 3 in NaOH/DMSO medium afforded to substituted 1,2,4‐oxadiazolyl anilines. The compounds synthesized can exhibit luminescence, the presence and efficiency of which depends on the position of the amino group in these aminophenyl 1,2,4‐oxadiazol derivatives. The best luminophores are 2‐(ortho‐aminophenyl) 1,2,4‐oxadiazoles. More than 20 examples of the new organic luminophores were synthesized and studied. The effect of the luminophore structure on the emission band and on the quantum yield indicates that a luminescent scaffold has been obtained.
JointConf: Jointly autotuning configuration parameters for modularized graph databases
Authors: Dou Hui , Mei Jicheng , Zhang Yiwen , Chen Pengfei , Zheng Zibin
Published: July 2022

To support different application scenarios, graph databases (GDBs) usually provide a large number of performance‐related parameters for developers. Since manually configuring is both time‐consuming and cost‐intensive, automatically tuning configurations parameters to achieve a better performance has been an urgent need. Besides, considering various graph management requirements, GDBs begin to utilize the modular architecture to interoperate with a wide range of storage and index backends. Due to the complicated interactions among different modules, sequentially tuning each software with previous solutions may fall into a local optimal and it is necessary to jointly autotune the cross‐module configuration parameters. Toward this challenging target, we propose JointConf—a new black‐box approach of jointly autotuning configuration parameters for modularized GDBs. To address the formulated high‐dimensional black‐box optimization problem, JointConf utilizes the recently proposed BO_dropout algorithm. Inspired by the dropout algorithm in neural networks, BO_dropout explores efficient dimension dropout to achieve a high‐dimensional Bayesian optimization. We evaluate the effectiveness of JointConf on a local distributed JanusGraph cluster with three different graph query benchmark applications and experimental results show its advantages over the four baseline search‐based approaches. The necessity of jointly tuning for modularized GDBs is also verified in our experiments.
Release conventions of open‐source software: An exploratory study
Authors: Chakroborti Debasish , Nath Sristy Sumana , Schneider Kevin A. , Roy Chanchal K.
Published: August 2022

Software engineering (SE) methodologies are widely used in both academia and industry to manage the software development life cycle. A number of studies of SE methodologies involve interviewing stakeholders to explore the real‐world practice. Although these interview‐based studies provide us with a user's perspective of an organization's practice, they do not describe the concrete summary of releases in open‐source social coding platforms. In particular, no existing studies investigated how releases are evolved in open‐source coding platforms, which assist release planners to a large extent. This study explores software development patterns followed in open‐source projects to see the overall management's reflection on software release decisions rather than concentrating on a particular methodology. Our experiments on 51 software origins (with 1777k revisions and 12k releases) from the Software Heritage Graph Dataset (SWHGD) and their GitHub project boards (with 23k cards) reveal reasonably active project management with phase simplicity can release software versions more frequently and can follow the small release conventions of Extreme Programming. Additionally, the study also reveals that a combination of development and management activities can be applied to predict the possible number of software releases in a month ( ).
Dip‐Coated SnO2 Electron Transport Layer for Efficient and Stable PbS Quantum Dot Photovoltaics
Authors: Wang Lei , Wang Haibin , Jia Yuwen , Wang Yinglin , Kubo Takaya , Liu Yichun , Zhang Xintong , Segawa Hiroshi
Published: August 2022

Advance in wide‐bandgap‐oxide electron transport layers (WBO‐ETLs) is essential for the development of high‐efficiency and stable solution‐processed quantum dot photovoltaics (PVs). Herein, a novel dip‐coated SnO2 ETL to fabricate PbS colloidal quantum dot solar cells (CQDSCs) is employed, replacing the benchmarked ZnO sol–gel ETL, in pursuit of both high efficiency and high operational stability. Taking advantage of the high light‐transmittance and desired electrical characteristics of the dip‐coated SnO2 ETL, the CQDSC with a structure of fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO)/SnO2/I‐capped PbS CQDs/EDT‐capped PbS/Au (EDT: 1,2‐ethanedithiol), exhibits a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.70%, higher than the 9.52% of the ZnO‐based control device. Particularly, the unencapsulated SnO2‐based CQDSC demonstrated a remarkably improved operational stability in comparison to the ZnO‐based device, maintaining 93.4% of the initial efficiency after a 200 h light‐soaking at the maximum power point tracking under AM 1.5G irradiation, which is attributed to the robust SnO2/PbS CQD heterojunction under operational conditions. The improved efficiency and operational stability suggest the superiority of the dip‐coated SnO2 ETL to its ZnO counterpart, paving a way for the development of high‐efficiency and high‐stability CQDSCs via WBO‐ETL engineering.
Recent Progress on the Phase Stabilization of FAPbI3 for High‐Performance Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Cui Xiaxia , Jin Junjun , Tai Qidong , Yan Feng
Published: August 2022

With the advantages of narrow bandgap and excellent thermal stability, fomamidinium lead triiodide (FAPbI3) perovskite holds the promise to boost the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) to over 25%. However, such a promise is blurred by the poor structural stability of the black α‐phase FAPbI3, as it can spontaneously transform into photoinactive δ‐phase at room temperature and this process can be accelerated by the ambient moisture. The incorporation of small ions such as cesium (Cs+), methylammonium (MA), and bromide (Br−) into the perovskite lattice is proven to be successful in stabilizing the α‐phase FAPbI3; however, the resultant mixed perovskites suffer the phase segregation problem, which inevitably undermines the long‐term stability of the corresponding PSCs. Therefore, continuous efforts are made to realize stable and pure‐phase α‐FAPbI3 perovskites. Herein, the recent progress on the development of efficient and stable FAPbI3 PSCs is summarized with a focus on the different phase stabilization strategies. In addition, the challenges and possible directions for future study are proposed.
Parecoxib expresses anti‐metastasis effect through inhibition of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway in human colon cancer DLD‐1 cell line
Authors: Wong Chung Hang , Chang Wan‐Ling , Lu Fung‐Jou , Liu Yi‐Wen , Peng Jyun‐Yu , Chen Ching‐Hsein
Published: August 2022

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in Taiwan. Current treatments involve combination of surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy. These treatments have demonstrated to increased five‐year survival of a patient with colorectal cancer. However, metastasis is a major capability of cancer cells that causes poor prognosis, recurrence, and even death. Epidemiological and clinical studies have suggested the use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as an effective class of compounds to prevent colon cancer. Parecoxib is an NSAID and the only parenterally administered selective cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 inhibitor. In this study, we evaluated whether parecoxib inhibits the metastasis of DLD‐1 human colon cancer cells, a COX‐2 null cell line, and the underlying mechanism. Cell migration of the DLD‐1 cells was significantly inhibited by parecoxib treatment as shown by the Transwell migration assay. This enhanced anti‐migration effect was correlated with the attenuated phosphorylation of Akt, expression of vimentin (a mesenchymal marker), and β‐catenin, and corresponded with the upregulated GSK3β and E‐cadherin (an epithelial marker). These findings suggested that parecoxib could inhibit the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis in human colon cancer cells by downregulating β‐catenin. Thus, parecoxib could provide a novel prospective strategy for a combination treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs against metastasis of human colon cancer.
Promote diversity, access, equity, inclusion at your institution
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2022

Increasing diversity, access, equity, and inclusion on campus requires total commitment, said Cassandra Moore, Director of Admissions and Enrollment Development at Anne Arundel Community College. “This is hard work,” she added, speaking at the Chesapeake and Potomac Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers annual conference, held virtually.
Different outcomes of Canid alphaherpesvirus 1 infection in a litter of puppies: The silent viral spread
Authors: Marenzoni Maria Luisa , Troisi Alessandro , Gallo Ilaria , Sylla Lakamy , Decaro Nicola
Published: August 2022

Canid alphaherpesvirus 1 causes worldwide infection with different outcomes in neonatal puppies and adults, followed by latency. Here, we report the varied outcomes of Canid alphaherpesvirus 1 infection in a Dalmatian litter of 12 puppies in Italy. The diagnosis of Canid alphaherpesvirus 1 was obtained by polymerase chain reaction on internal organs of one of the dead puppies. Another three puppies (one stillborn and two dead within the first 3 days of life) were not investigated (owner's request). Based on a positive result, an epidemiological investigation was performed. The outcome of the infection was particularly variable within the litter (one dead puppy, three healthy polymerase chain reaction‐positive and another five virologically negative puppies). The present case report indicates the relevance of early detection of infection, how the features of herpetic infection can vary in the same litter and how viral spread can be underestimated in asymptomatic dogs. Effective control of Canid alphaherpesvirus 1 infection should include hygienic measures and screening tests, especially in situations in which dogs, even asymptomatic, are mixed.
Allocation, allocation, allocation! The political economy of the development of the European Union Emissions Trading System
Authors: Sato Misato , Rafaty Ryan , Calel Raphael , Grubb Michael
Published: August 2022

The European Union's pioneering carbon Emissions Trading System, the EU ETS, has inspired countries around the world to launch their own CO2 markets. This paper analyses the evolution of the EU ETS from a political economy perspective, emphasizing the interaction of economic principles and political interests at pivotal moments, and showing how each compromise changed the scope for future design choices. We focus on the allowance allocation issue, which provides a window into the complex tug‐of‐war between economic efficiency and the politics of distribution. Our account highlights the dynamic nature of CO2 market reform, and provides lessons that can help inform the design of more stable and effective CO2 markets in the future.

This article is categorized under:

Climate Economics > Economics of Mitigation

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Policies, Instruments, Lifestyles, Behavior
Outdoor Learning—Why It Should Be High up on the Agenda of Every Educator
Authors: Jucker Rolf , von Au Jakob
Published: July 2022

In a world challenged by increasingly complex crises, a sound understanding of reality and high quality learning become crucial elements for strengthening children and making societies more resilient and fit for the future. This chapter argues that outdoor learning—even given the fact that quite a few aspects of it are under-researched—can play an important role in contributing to the kind of learning the twenty-first century needs. Outdoor learning enables cumulative, fundamental fostering of learning in multiple dimensions, such as academic learning, social interaction, personal development and well-being, mental, physical and social health, creativity, and much more. It is an add-in approach, easy to integrate into normal schooling, at very low cost. It therefore should be very high up on the agenda of any decision maker who is concerned with the future of our education systems. The chapter elaborates why the reminder of the book is a toolbox for just such decision makers in education authorities, teacher-training universities, schools and research institutions, to systemically embed outdoor learning in their respective practices.
How Daylight Controls the Biological Clock, Organises Sleep, and Enhances Mood and Performance
Authors: Wirz-Justice Anna
Published: July 2022

The human circadian system drives 24-h rhythms in all aspects of biochemistry, physiology and behaviour. This rhythmicity ensures that the right function occurs at the right time, and separates incompatible functions. Rhythmic synchronisation is key to overall health and wellbeing, and light input from the day-night cycle is the primary ‘zeitgeber’ or entraining agent. Coordination of internal clocks promotes positive mood, optimum alertness and performance, and ensures sleep quality essential for learning and memory. Indoor light intensity is rarely sufficient to stabilise daily entrainment, while even an hour outdoors in the morning can significantly enhance cognitive function, academic achievement, and physical condition.