bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Yield of Closed Pleural Biopsy Using Cope’s Needle in the Diagnosis of Exudative Pleural Effusion
Authors: Goswami Preetam , Das Anirban , Biswas Rathindra Nath , Sen Pronoy , Barik Rana
Published: November 2022

Introduction: The aetiology of pleural effusion may be difficult to diagnose based on the pleural fluid cytology, biochemical and microbiological study. Pleural biopsy using Cope’s needle may help in such cases where definitive diagnosis can not be achieved with the help of cytology. Aim: To make aetiological diagnosis of undiagnosed exudative cases using Closed Pleural Biopsy (CPB) and to determine the diagnostic yield of CPB taken by Cope’s needle in aetiologically confirmed exudative pleural effusion. Materials and Methods: This prospective observation study was conducted in Department of Pulmonary Medicine at Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, Burdwan, West Bengal, India, from April 2021 to March 2022 among 52 patients. Under local anaesthesia, diagnostic and therapeutic thoracocentesis were done. The pleural fluid was sent for complete biochemical, microbiological analysis, and cytology. Later, pleural biopsy was also done using Cope’s pleural biopsy needle. The variables studied were age, gender, pleural fluid cytology, pleural fluid for acid fast bacilli, Gram stain, and culture and pleural biopsy histopathology. Results: Out of 52 patients, 34 (65.4%) were males and 18 (34.6%) were females. The majority of the patients (41, 78.8%) had a right-sided pleural effusion. The mean value of lymphocytes and polymorphs count was 57.7% and 32.7%, respectively. Histopathology showed granulomatous inflammation compatible with tuberculosis in 18 (34.6%) patients, non-specific inflammation in 17 patients (32.7%), and 5 (9.6%) patients as adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma was seen in 4 (7.7%), 2 (3.8%) showed undifferentiated carcinoma, while 6 (11.5%) samples had inadequate tissue for opinion. In 6 (11.5%) cases pleural tissue was inadequate to give any opinion. 5 (9.6%) cases showed adenocarcinomas, 2 (3.8%) cases showed squamous cell carcinoma and 4 (7.7%) cases showed undifferentiated carcinoma. The true positives were 18 and 11 for tuberculous and malignant pleural effusion, respectively. The diagnostic yield of pleural biopsy was found to be 75% in case of tubercular pleural effusion and 78.6% for malignant pleural effusion. Conclusion: This study suggests that tuberculosis and malignancy are the two common aetiologies for exudative pleural effusion. Pleural biopsy plays an additional role in histopathological confirmation of aetiologically diagnosed exudative pleural effusion.
A Multisite Survey of E-learning Readiness and Academic Performance among Nursing Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Innab Adnan , Alqahtani Naji , Bahari Ghareeb , Alshaimmari Alkad , Kerari Ali , Alharbi Mohammad K
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Determining students’ readiness for e-learning is critical to implementing more effective education and performance. Nursing education in Saudi Arabia continues to struggle with a shortage of technical tools to enable teaching and acquiring critical nursing skills. Aim: To assess the level of e-learning readiness and academic performance and their association in nursing students and to determine the factors associated with e-learning readiness and academic performance. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, multisite study was conducted on a convenience sample of nursing students (N = 139) attending nursing programs from multiple public and private universities in Saudi Arabia. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection from May 2020 to August 2020. Multivariate analyses were run using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: The mean age of the study participants was 27.3±6.34 years. The total average of e-learning readiness was 4.16 (SD=0.54). Bivariate analyses showed that age was associated with both e-learning readiness (r=0.175, p=0.03) and academic performance (r=0.341, p<0.001). Employment status, level of education, and previous experience with e-learning displayed significant association with e-learning readiness (p<0.05). In multivariate analyses, only previous experience with e-learning had positively influence on students e-learning readiness (b=0.188, p<0.05). Technology access subscale (b=0.206, p<0.05) and level of education (b=0.323, p<0.05) had both positive impacts on students’ academic performance. Conclusion: The e-learning readiness score was high among the nursing students, especially if they were employed or had previous experience with it. Access to technology improved students’ academic performance. The current e-learning mechanism may need some developments in order to meet students’ different needs.
Provision of Air Conditioning and Heat-Related Mortality in Texas Prisons
Authors: Skarha Julianne , Dominick Amite , Spangler Keith , Dosa David , Rich Josiah D. , Savitz David A. , Zanobetti Antonella
Published: November 2022

Importance

There is a large body of epidemiologic evidence that heat is associated with increased risk of mortality. One of the most effective strategies to mitigate the effects of heat is through air conditioning (AC); Texas regulates the internal temperature of jails to stay between 65 and 85 °F degrees, but these same standards do not apply to state and private prisons.

Objective

To analyze whether heat during warm months is associated with an increased risk of mortality in Texas prisons without AC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case-crossover study included individuals who died in Texas prisons between 2001 and 2019. The association of heat in warm months with mortality in Texas prisons with and without AC was estimated. Data analysis was conducted from January to April 2022.

Exposures

Increasing daily heat index above 85 °F and extreme heat days (days above the 90th percentile heat index for the prison location).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Daily mortality in Texas prisons.

Results

There were 2083 and 1381 deaths in prisons without and with AC, respectively, during warm months from 2001 to 2019. Most of the deceased were male (3339 of 3464 [96%]) and the median (IQR) age at death was 54 (45-62) years. A 1-degree increase above 85 °F heat index and an extreme heat day were associated with a 0.7% (95% CI, 0.1%-1.3%) and a 15.1% (95% CI, 1.3%-30.8%) increase in the risk of mortality in prisons without AC, respectively. Approximately 13% of mortality or 271 deaths may be attributable to extreme heat during warm months between 2001 to 2019 in Texas prison facilities without AC. In prisons with AC, a negative percentage change in mortality risk was observed, although the 95% CI crossed zero (percentage change in mortality risk: −0.6%; 95% CI, −1.6% to 0.5%). The estimates in prisons without AC were statistically different than the estimates in prisons with AC (P = .05).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found an average of 14 deaths per year between 2001 to 2019 were associated with heat in Texas prisons without AC vs no deaths associated with heat in prisons with AC. Adopting an AC policy in Texas prisons may be important for protecting the health of one of our most vulnerable populations.
The Intersection of Business Innovation and Scientific Exploration to Address Early Mortality in People With Serious Mental Illness
Authors: Fortuna Karen L. , Cosco Theodore D. , Bohm Andrew R.
Published: November 2022

This Viewpoint describes how open innovation has been used by communities to support individual and community health and discusses how scientists and clinicians could apply this idea- and resource-sharing strategy to generate breakthrough advances that may extend the life span of people with serious mental illness (SMI).
A Positron Emission Tomography Study of Dopamine Transporter Density in Patients With Bipolar Disorder With Current Mania and Those With Recently Remitted Mania
Authors: Yatham Lakshmi N. , Liddle Peter F. , Gonzalez Marjorie , Saraf Gayatri , Vafai Nasim , Lam Raymond W. , Sossi Vesna
Published: November 2022

Importance

Although dopamine is implicated in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD), the precise alterations in the dopaminergic system remain unknown.

Objective

To assess dopamine transporter (DAT) density in the striatum in patients with BD with current and recently remitted mania in comparison to healthy control individuals and its correlation with severity of manic symptoms.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary care referral center for mood disorders in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, recruited 26 patients with BD (9 with current mania; 17 with recently remitted mania) and 21 matched healthy control individuals. DAT density was measured using positron emission tomography with [11C]d-threo-methylphenidate (MP). The differences between the groups in nondisplaceable binding potential (BPND) for DAT was assessed using statistical parametric mapping. The study was conducted from November 2001 to February 2007 and the data were analyzed from November 2020 to December 2021.

Main Outcomes and Measures

DAT density as indexed by BPND for MP across groups; manic symptom severity as measured with the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and correlated with BPND values in patients with BD.

Results

Of 47 total participants (mean [SD] age, 37.8 [14.4] years), 27 (57.4%) were female; 26 individuals had BD (9 with current mania and 17 with recently remitted mania) and there were 21 healthy control individuals. MP BPND was significantly lower in patients with BD in the right putamen and nucleus accumbens (mean reduction [MR] = 22%; cluster level familywise error [FWE]–corrected P < .001) as well as left putamen and caudate (MR = 24%; cluster level FWE–corrected P < .001). The reduction in BPND was more extensive and pronounced in patients with current mania, while patients with recently remitted mania had lower BPND in the left striatum but not the right. There was a significant negative correlation between YMRS scores and MP BPND in the right striatum in patients with current mania (ρ = −0.93; 95% CI, −0.99 to −0.69; P < .001) and those with recently remitted mania (ρ = 0.64; 95% CI, −0.86 to −0.23; P = .005) but not in the left striatum in either group.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings indicate that mania was associated with reduced DAT density and remitted mania was associated with DAT levels that approximated those present in individuals without BD. These results have potential implications for drug development for mania.
Association of an Online Home-Based Prehabilitation Program With Outcomes After Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Kimura Cintia S. , Bidwell Serena , Gurland Brooke , Morris Arden , Shelton Andrew , Kin Cindy
Published: November 2022

This quality improvement study evaluates the association of an online home-based patient prehabilitation program with colorectal surgery outcomes.
COVID‐19 and the risk of Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis
Authors: Zhang Hanyu , Zhou Zengyuan
Published: November 2022

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the healthcare system, economy, and society. Studies have reported that COVID‐19 may cause various neurologic symptoms, including cognitive impairment. We aimed to assess the causal effect of COVID‐19 on neurodegenerative diseases using two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study.

Methods

Genetic variants were obtained from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) summary‐level data and meta‐analyses. We used the inverse variance–weighted (IVW) method as the primary analysis to estimate causal effects. Sensitivity analyses were performed to make the conclusions more robust and reliable.

Results

We found that the COVID‐19 infection phenotype was associated with a higher risk of AD and inverse associated with the risk of ALS and MS. The hospitalized COVID‐19 phenotype was associated with the risk of AD and wasn't associated with ALS and MS. We also found that the severe COVID‐19 (main analysis) phenotype was associated with the AD outcome from UK biobank datasets but was not associated with other outcomes. The severe COVID‐19 infection phenotype, the severe COVID‐19 (subtype analysis) phenotype and the hospitalization risk of COVID‐19 were not associated with each outcome.

Conclusion

This MR study suggests a potential association between genetically predicted COVID‐19 and a higher risk of AD and a reduced risk of ALS and MS. Further elucidations of this association and underlying mechanisms may inform public health messages to prevent COVID‐19 and AD.
Exploration on Solvatochromic Sensing Probe of Phenol Blue for L‐Lactic Acid Detection: Effective Strategy to Obtain Reliable Capacitive Sensor
Authors: Seo Jungyoon , Hwang Taehoon , Ko Eun , Oh Seungtaek , Tsogbayar Dashdendev , Khan Md Rajibur Rahaman , Cho Jeong Ho , Park Yeong Don , Lee Hwa Sung
Published: November 2022

This study systematically investigates a capacitive sensor applied with phenol blue (PhB)‐based sensing medium for detection of L‐lactic acid (LA), as a health monitoring indicator. PhB is a substance with solvatochromic effect, inducing the change in capacitance by exposure to polar molecules. However, the capacitive LA sensor with a flat‐structured PhB/polyvinylchloride (PVC) composite‐sensing medium is observed to have a problem in that sensing capacitance variation saturate quickly with increasing the LA solution concentration. This main cause can be analyzed that the interaction of proton from LA molecule with the lone pair electrons of the PhB molecule acts as a major factor on the sensing characteristics rather than the solvatochromic behavior of PhB molecule. Therefore, a strategy is adopted to introduce a porous structure to the PhB/PVC composite‐sensing medium to maximize the interaction of PhB with protons, which is implemented through solvent and non‐solvent exchange methods. Consequently, the sensitivity and linearity of the porous‐structured LA sensor are 2.99 pF mm−1and 0.966 over LA concentrations ranging from 0 to 100 mm, respectively, which is a significant improvement over that of the flat‐structured one. Notably, the sensing performance remained unchanged even after a month of storage under normal ambient conditions.
Supramolecular Polypeptide Self‐Assembly Mediated In Situ Elicitation of Robust Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses Boosts Immunogenic Photothermal Therapy toward “Cold” Tumor
Authors: Shi Kai , Liu Xiu , Liu Yuli , Liu Chang , Wang Yaxin , Liu Yunmeng
Published: November 2022

As a promising cancer treatment modality that has emerged, photothermal therapy can harness antitumor immunity by triggering immunogenic cell death (ICD) in addition to direct cell ablation. However, the immuno‐stimulation induced by PTT alone is insufficient to achieve satisfactory cancer eradication, especially in immunologically “cold” tumors due to their harsh immunosuppressive microenvironment. Effective activation of the innate immune system is indispensable to boost a robust adaptive antitumor immune response typically initiated by dendritic cells (DCs). Herein the above issues are addressed by constructing an environmentally responsive supramolecular nanoself‐assembly (PSAs) derived from a novel polypeptide‐based block copolymer, which is capable of co‐load photothermal immunomodulators efficiently under structure‐guided π–π stacking interactions. In the murine model of 4T1 xenograft tumors, the fabricated PSAs with payloads trigger both adaptive and innate immune responses in situ through activation of ICD as well as STING‐dependent signal pathway. The findings reveal a new mechanism of harnessing photothermal therapy toward immunologically “cold” tumors.
Phase‐Change Perovskite Microlaser with Tunable Polarization Vortex
Authors: Tian Jingyi , Adamo Giorgio , Liu Hailong , Wu Mengfei , Klein Maciej , Deng Jie , Ang Norman Soo Seng , Paniagua‐Domínguez Ramón , Liu Hong , Kuznetsov Arseniy I. , Soci Cesare
Published: November 2022

Metasurfaces supporting optical bound states in the continuum (BICs) are emerging as simple and compact optical cavities to realize polarization‐vortex lasers. The winding of the polarization around the singularity defines topological charges which are generally set by the cavity design and cannot be altered without changing geometrical parameters. Here, a subwavelength‐thin phase‐change halide perovskite BIC metasurface functioning as a tunable polarization vortex microlaser is demonstrated. Upon the perovskite structural phase transitions, both its refractive index and gain vary substantially, inducing reversible and bistable switching between distinct polarization vortexes underpinned by opposite topological charges. Dynamic tuning and switching of the resulting vector beams may find use in microscopy imaging, particle trapping and manipulation, and optical data storage.
Core‐Selective Silver‐Doping of Gold Nanoclusters by Surface‐Bound Sulphates on Colloidal Templates: From Synthetic Mechanism to Relaxation Dynamics
Authors: Chandra Sourov , Sciortino Alice , Shandilya Shruti , Fang Lincan , Chen Xi , Nonappa  , Jiang Hua , Johansson Leena‐Sisko , Cannas Marco , Ruokolainen Janne , Ras Robin H. A. , Messina Fabrizio , Peng Bo , Ikkala Olli
Published: November 2022

Ultra‐small luminescent gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) have gained substantial interest owing to their low photobleaching and high biocompatibility. While the substitution of silver for gold at the central core of AuNCs has shown significant augmentation of photoluminescence with enhanced photostability, selective replacement of the central atom by silver is, however, energetically inhibited. Herein, a new strategy for in situ site‐selective Ag‐doping exclusively at the central core of AuNCs using sulphated colloidal surfaces as the templates is presented. This approach exceedingly improves the photoluminescence quantum efficiency of AuNCs by eliminating nonradiative losses in the multi‐step relaxation cascade populating the emissive state. Density functional theory predicts the mechanism of specific doping at the central core, endorsing the preferential bonding between Ag+ ions and sulphates in water. Finally, the generic nature of the templating concept to allow core‐specific doping of nanoclusters is unraveled.
Optimizing Interparticle Gaps in Large‐Scale Gold Nanoparticle Supercrystals for Flexible Light‐Matter Coupling
Authors: Schulz Florian , Lange Holger
Published: November 2022

Periodic arrangements of plasmonic nanoparticles, supercrystals, feature strong light–matter interaction. The light–matter coupling strength depends on the particle diameter and on the interparticle gaps, which provides a lever for controlling it. To facilitate material design, experimental data is analyzed with focus on how the reproducibility and tunability of the gap sizes change with the employed nanoparticles (particle size and molecular weight of the stabilizing organic ligands). A different behavior of the polystyrene‐based ligands was found depending on their molecular weight with important consequences for the correlation of nanoparticle diameter and resulting gaps in the supercrystals. Commonly employed models to predict the resulting gaps for supercrystals of small nanoparticles (< 20 nm) are not as successful for larger ones, and an alternative volume‐based approach is presented. The tested parameters cover the range of commonly available nanoparticles (diameters in the range of 10–80 nm). The presented data provides robust guidelines for the preparation of crystalline superstructures with gaps below 5 nm for maximized light–matter coupling.
Metal Halide Perovskite/Electrode Contacts in Charge‐Transporting‐Layer‐Free Devices
Authors: Li Deli , Dong Xue , Cheng Peng , Song Lin , Wu Zhongbin , Chen Yonghua , Huang Wei
Published: November 2022

Metal halide perovskites have drawn substantial interest in optoelectronic devices in the past decade. Perovskite/electrode contacts are crucial for constructing high‐performance charge‐transporting‐layer‐free perovskite devices, such as solar cells, field‐effect transistors, artificial synapses, memories, etc. Many studies have evidenced that the perovskite layer can directly contact the electrodes, showing abundant physicochemical, electronic, and photoelectric properties in charge‐transporting‐layer‐free perovskite devices. Meanwhile, for perovskite/metal contacts, some critical interfacial physical and chemical processes are reported, including band bending, interface dipoles, metal halogenation, and perovskite decomposition induced by metal electrodes. Thus, a systematic summary of the role of metal halide perovskite/electrode contacts on device performance is essential. This review summarizes and discusses charge carrier dynamics, electronic band engineering, electrode corrosion, electrochemical metallization and dissolution, perovskite decomposition, and interface engineering in perovskite/electrode contacts‐based electronic devices for a comprehensive understanding of the contacts. The physicochemical, electronic, and morphological properties of various perovskite/electrode contacts, as well as relevant engineering techniques, are presented. Finally, the current challenges are analyzed, and appropriate recommendations are put forward. It can be expected that further research will lead to significant breakthroughs in their application and promote reforms and innovations in future solid‐state physics and materials science.
External finance and agricultural productivity growth
Authors: Khafagy Amr , Vigani Mauro
Published: November 2022

We propose a new method to estimate the impact of external finance on productivity. Using a nested constant elasticity of substitution production function, finance has an indirect influence on productivity through its effect on capital augmenting‐technological change and depends on the elasticity of substitution between equity and debt, as well as on the quantity and price of external finance and net value added. We develop and test a theoretical model using Farm Accountancy Data Network regional data covering all EU Member States and different subsamples by EU regions, size of farms, and farm types. In the 2004–2018 period, land, labor, and capital complemented each other but had a decreasing or stagnating productivity, reaffirming the importance of external finance to improve productivity. Results suggest that external finance and productivity follow an inverted U‐shaped curve, with a positive impact on less capitalized farms with lower debt‐to‐equity ratios, while capital‐intensive farms are not benefiting from excess finance. Rethinking the general assumption that agricultural growth has a positive and linear effect with access to credit lead to different strategies in the use of external finance. [EconLit Citations: G30, O16, O33, Q14].
Comparative analysis of the growth and development differences of children and adolescents between developed and undeveloped urban and rural areas in China
Authors: Ling Ruizhe , Xu Yong
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Our study use the height and weight data of Chinese students aged 7–18 years from 1985 to 2014 to investigate the inequality and changing trend of height and weight of children and adolescents in different regions.

Methods

Our study extracted data from the 1985, 2000, and 2014 Chinese National Survey on Students' Constitution and Health (CNSSCH) for a comparative analysis of the height and weight of children and adolescents aged 7–18 years in a developed city (Shanghai) and an underdeveloped province (Guizhou). The coefficients of variation (CVs) of height and weight between urban and rural boys and girls were also calculated.

Results

Since 1985, the height difference between urban and rural areas has decreased from 4.24 to 2.41 cm for boys and 3.72 to 1.99 cm for girls. The weight difference for boys and girls increased from 1.83 to 3.10 kg and from 0.97 to 1.80 kg, respectively. However, from 1985 to 2014, the height and weight differences between Shanghai and Guizhou increased. In addition, from 1985 to 2014, the coefficient of height variation was greater for rural students than urban students while the coefficient of weight variation was greater for urban students than rural students.

Conclusions

Although the difference between urban and rural areas has recently decreased, the difference between developed area (Shanghai) and underdeveloped area (Guizhou) has increased. In particular, the difference in height and weight between children in developed areas (Shanghai) and non‐developed areas (Guizhou) has become larger since 1985–2014, rather than gradually decreasing over time.
Botulinum toxin to improve facial expression in a patient with Urofacial (Ochoa) Syndrome
Authors: Barbon Carlotta , Grünherz Lisanne , Schweizer Riccardo , Lindenblatt Nicole , Giovanoli Pietro
Published: November 2022

The Urofacial or Ochoa Syndrome is a very rare congenital disorder that includes vesical bladder dysfunction and a peculiar inverse facial expression, which brings patients to express a sad‐crying face while they intend to laugh. Up‐to‐date treatments have addressed only the urological side of this disease. However, also the impaired facial mimicry has a strong impact on patients' quality of life. We treated a young patient with Botulinum toxin to address this impairment and obtained pleasing results, including a harmonic smile and a very satisfied patient. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the use of Botulinum toxin is reported in literature to address the facial expression component of this disease.
Affinity‐Based Wearable Electrochemical Biosensors: Natural versus Biomimetic Receptors
Authors: Campuzano Susana , Pedrero María , Torrente‐Rodríguez Rebeca M. , Pingarrón José M.
Published: November 2022

This review delves into the titanic research efforts carried out during the last years on affinity‐based wearable electrochemical biosensors, using both natural (antibodies) and biomimetic (aptamers, peptides and molecular imprinted polymers) receptors. The rationale and application of selected representative strategies is critically discussed, ending with realistic and futuristic visions of the technical barriers, challenges and prospects in the development and adoption of these biodevices in daily routines to ensure well‐being against known, unknown and unexpected threats.
Neural networks and genetic algorithm as robust optimization tools for modeling the microbial production of poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate (PHB) from Brewers’ spent grain
Authors: Imandi Sarat Babu , Karanam Sita Kumari , Nagumantri Radhakrishna , Srivastava Rajesh K. , Sarangi Prakash Kumar
Published: November 2022

This research work has been carried out to establish the combinatorial impact of various fermentation medium constituents, used for poly‐β hydroxybutyrate (PHB) biosynthesis. Model development was performed with an optimized medium composition that enhanced the biosynthesis of PHB from the biowaste material Brewers’ spent grain (BSG). The latter was used as a carbon substrate in submerged fermentation with Bacillus sphaericus NCIM 2478. Three independent variables: BSG, yeast extract (YE), and salt solution concentration (SS) and one dependent variable (amount of PHB produced) were assigned. A total of 35 microbial fermentation trials were conducted by which a nonlinear mathematical relationship was established in terms of neural network model between independent and dependent variables. The resulting artificial neural networks (ANNs) model for this process was further optimized using a global genetic algorithm optimization technique, which predicted the maximum production of PHB (916.31 mg/L) at a concentration of BSG (50.12 g/L), concentration of YE (0.22 g/L), and concentration of SS (24.06%, v/v). The experimental value of the quantity of PHB (concentration ∼916 mg/L) was found to be very close to the value predicted by the ANN–GA model approach.
Mixed ligand octahedral Zn(II) complex of N^N^O donor tridentate Schiff base ligand and N^N donor bidentate bipyridine ligand: Synthesis, characterization, biological activity and cytotoxicity
Authors: Vijayan Thamilarasan , Pugazhenthi Mani , Nasirian Azam , Kim Jinheung , Kasi Gopinath , Jayamani Arumugam
Published: November 2022

Tridentate NNO donor Schiff base ligand and its mixed ligand zinc(II) complex were synthesized stoichiometrically and characterized by electronic, infrared, mass spectral techniques and elemental analysis. To understand the DNA binding ability, the complex was investigated by various analytical and spectroscopic techniques in presence of calf thymus DNA (CT‐DNA). The binding studies showed that the zinc complex interacts with DNA by groove binding mode with intrinsic binding strength of 2.11 × 105 M−1 and with bovine serum albumin the complex showed dynamic quenching attributed for changes in the secondary structure of BSA with efficient interaction. The MCF‐7 cell line studies of the zinc(II) complex with 90.8 μM IC50 value revealed that the complex is effective for the breast cancer cell line and has a potential as anticancer drug. Furthermore, the tridentate ligand and its mixed ligand zinc complex were screened for antibacterial and antifungal activities, which showed better antimicrobial activity for complex.
Effects of acute high‐altitude exposure on working memory: A functional near‐infrared spectroscopy study
Authors: Wang Li , Sang Linqiong , Cui Yu , Li Pengyue , Qiao Liang , Wang Qiannan , Zhao Wenqi , Hu Qiu , Zhang Najing , Zhang Ye , Qiu Mingguo , Chen Jian
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Inadequate oxygen availability may lead to impairment of neurocognitive functions. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of acute high‐altitude exposure on the cerebral hemodynamic response and working memory.

Methods

The same subjects performed working memory exercises with forward and backward digit span tasks both under normal oxygen conditions and in large simulated hypobaric hypoxia chambers, and a series of physiological parameters were evaluated. Functional near‐infrared spectroscopy was used to measure cerebral blood flow changes in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) during the tasks.

Results

Compared with normoxic conditions, under hypoxic conditions, the heart rate and blood pressure increased, blood oxygen saturation decreased significantly, and the forward task had similar accuracy and response time, while the backward task had lower accuracy and longer response time. Neuroimaging analysis showed increased activation in the DLPFC during the forward task and deactivation during the backward task under hypobaric hypoxia conditions.

Conclusion

Acute high‐altitude exposure leads to physiological adaptations. The abnormal hemodynamic responses of the DLPFC to hypoxia at low pressure reveal the disruption of neurocognitive function by acute high‐altitude exposure, which compromises complex cognitive functions, and provides a promising application for functional near infrared spectroscopy in the exploration of neural mechanisms in the brain during high‐altitude exposure.
A new FDA approved stent for congenital heart disease: First‐in‐man experiences with G‐ARMORTM
Authors: Morgan Gareth J. , Zablah Jenny
Published: November 2022

We present the first clinical experience with a new hybrid cell structure covered stent, designed for congenital heart disease applications. It represents a significant redesign of the Cheatham Platinum (CP) Stent (Numed Inc.), maintaining the traditional benefits of the covered CP whilst significantly decreasing shortening and allowing controlled flaring at the ends through its combination of larger and standard sized cells. We first implanted the stent in 2 patients with superior sinus venosus defects with anomalous drainage of the right upper and middle lobe pulmonary veins. The first was a 40 year male and the second a 36 year old female. The third case was a 60 year old patient with near atresia of the aorta, with pre and poststenotic aortic dilation. The clinical result in all cases was excellent with no obstruction to pulmonary venous return and no visible L‐R shunt on the transthoracic echo on 24 h and 2 week follow‐up for the patient with sinus venosus defects and uniform complete revascularization of the aorta without any vascular complications in the patient with coarctation. These are the first uses of this stent in human subjects. The design is specifically aimed toward procedures where stent shortening is undesirable. Hence, coarctation of the aorta as well as stent implantation in preparation for percutaneous pulmonary valve placement are obvious use areas, as well as the growing body of evidence supporting percutaneous treatment of sinus venosus defects.
Trade‐offs between ion‐conducting and mechanical properties: The case of polyacrylate electrolytes
Authors: Lu Guoli , Zhang Yaojian , Zhang Jianjun , Du Xiaofan , Lv Zhaolin , Du Junzhe , Zhao Zhiming , Tang Yue , Zhao Jingwen , Cui Guanglei
Published: November 2022

Polymer electrolytes (PEs) have been long recognized as the key materials to enable energy‐dense batteries and render flexible energy devices practically viable, owing to their chemical and mechanical reliability. However, much of their promise is yet to be realized. The room‐temperature ion conductivity of existing PEs still falls short of the implementation criterion of 10−4 S cm−1 on the promise of acceptable mechanical properties, thereby precluding their practical application. The twin but inversely related duties of polymers, that is, functioning as both an ion‐conducting medium and a structural backbone, underlie this issue but are less elucidated systematically. The polyacrylate (PA) family is among promising polymer matrices on account of ester polarity, electrode compatibility, chemical tunability, and mechanical durability. The extensive applicability of PA in plasticized gels, dry solids, and emerging composites makes PA‐based PEs representative to illustrate the trade‐off between ion conduction and mechanical strength. We herein seek to outline the stated long‐standing conflict exemplified by PA‐based PEs, focusing on crucial strategies toward balancing and reconciling the two mutually exclusive properties, with the intention of offering designing guidelines for next‐generation PEs.
Sequential C−H Methylation Catalyzed by the B12‐Dependent SAM Enzyme TokK: Comprehensive Theoretical Study of Selectivities
Authors: Deng Wen‐Hao , Liao Rong‐Zhen
Published: November 2022

TokK is a B12‐dependent radical SAM enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of the β‐lactam antibiotic asparenomycin A. It can catalyze three methylations on different sp3‐hybridized carbon positions to introduce an isopropyl side chain at the β‐lactam ring of pantetheinylated carbapenem. Herein, we report a quantum chemical study of the reaction mechanism of TokK. A stepwise ‘‘push‐pull’’ radical relay mechanism is proposed for each methylation: a 5’‐deoxyadenosine radical first abstracts a hydrogen atom from the substrate in the active site, then methylcobalamin directionally donates a methyl group to the substrate. More importantly, calculations were able to uncover the origin of observed chemoselectivity and stereoselectivity for the first methylation and regioselectivity for the following two methylations. Further detailed distortion/interaction analysis can help to unravel the main factors controlling the selectivities. Our findings of sequential methylations by TokK could have profound implications for studying other B12‐dependent radical SAM enzymes.
Seismic P‐wave first‐arrival picking model based on EQK‐IncResNet
Authors: Li Gang , Mengge Yuan , Li Yu , Huang Jingang , Zhang Ling , Zhang Haixuan , Han Zhenhua
Published: November 2022

Seismic P‐wave first arrival picking is one of the critical problems in seismic source research. At present, the picking of seismic P‐wave first arrival mainly relies on the combination of traditional methods and manual picking. However, traditional algorithms have poor picking performance and low manual picking efficiency, which cannot meet the needs of research and application. Based on the deep learning network InceptionResNet‐V2, this paper proposes an improved network (EQK‐IncResNet) that can be used for seismic P‐wave first arrival picking. Compared with traditional methods, this model does not need to set the threshold manually and only needs to input the three‐component data of the seismic waveform data to intelligently identify the first‐arrival of the seismic P‐wave. This model has a lightweight structure and excellent feature extraction capabilities, which can effectively identify low signal‐to‐noise ratio data. The experimental results show that within the error thresholds of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 s, the hit rate of this method is 74.45%, 96.79%, and 98.68%, respectively. The average picking error is 0.031 s, which is better than the traditional methods such as AR‐AIC + STA/LTA and the mainstream deep learning methods such as GRU.
Implementation of a real‐time stereo vision algorithm on a cost‐effective heterogeneous multicore platform
Authors: Saidi Taki Eddine , Khouas Abdelhakim , Amira Abbes
Published: November 2022

Stereo vision is a major computer vision technique commonly used for robotics applications. Existing software implementations of this technique on general‐purpose processors offer low time‐to‐market compared to other platforms. However, such implementations can hardly achieve real‐time and their cost is usually relatively high. These issues can be solved by embedded multicore platforms. In this article, we present a low‐cost, improved software implementation of a stereo matching algorithm in the correlation stage that combines a sparse rank transform with a combination of sum of absolute differences 1‐D and 2‐D box filtering algorithms. A circular buffer scheme is used to optimize memory usage during the rank computation stage. The system runs on a heterogeneous multicore platform (ODROID XU4). Through the extensive use of single instruction multiple data Neon intrinsics, the system can process images with a size of pixels and a disparity range of 20 pixels at a rate of 111 frames per second. The proposed system can be used in mobile robot platforms that require low power consumption while delivering real‐time performance.
Toward inclusivity: A systematic review of the conceptualization of sexual minority status and associated eating disorder outcomes across two decades
Authors: O'Flynn Jennifer L. , Nowicki Genevieve P. , Laveway Katherine , Gordon Allegra R. , Rodgers Rachel F.
Published: November 2022

Objective

Sexual minority (SM) groups (e.g., those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, questioning, queer, asexual, or those who feel their sexual orientation identity cannot be captured with existing terminology [LGBQA+] and those who report same‐sex or same‐gender attraction and/or behavior) are at elevated risk for eating disorder (ED) symptoms and behaviors. However, the ways in which this risk varies across SM is less clear, and findings are not fully convergent. Evolution in the definition and assessment of SM status may contribute to this divergence. The aim of this study was to systematically review how sexual orientation and SM status have been assessed in the ED literature and how this may relate to patterns of associations between SM status and ED symptoms.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature focused on ED symptoms and behaviors and SM groups was conducted, yielding 182 studies.

Results

Five categories were created reflecting SM status assessment: identity only (n = 105), attraction only (n = 8), behavior only (n = 4), combinations of identity, behavior, or attraction (n = 58), and articles with unclear or insufficient information about SM status assessment (n = 7). SM status operationalizations varied across studies, with more inclusive assessments in more recent work. Findings revealed persistent conflicting patterns of disordered eating symptomatology for some SM groups. In addition, decisions to selectively combine SM participants in some studies, most often to increase power, decreased the specificity of their results in relation to differential risk and protective factors within specific LGBQA+ groups.

Discussion

Findings highlight the importance of inclusive assessments of sexual orientation in the ED literature and research focused on underrepresented groups with intersecting identities. Identifying modifiable targets for intervention is a critical next step.

Public Significance

Sexual minority (SM) groups have been identified as presenting elevated risk for eating disorder symptoms and behaviors. Our findings suggest that the level of risk is variable across SM groups and points to the need for multi‐dimensional assessments of SM status, and increased focus on the function of disordered eating behaviors and different profiles that might emerge related to efforts to modify physical appearance or to regulate emotion.
Phenotyping new rapeseed lines based on multiple traits: Application of GT and GYT biplot analyses
Authors: Gholizadeh Amir , Oghan Hassan Amiri , Alizadeh Bahram , Rameeh Valiollah , Payghamzadeh Kamal , Bakhshi Behnam , Dalili Seyed Alireza , Kia Shahriar , Shariati Farnaz
Published: November 2022

The selection based on multiple traits enhances the crop cultivars merit to farmers. In this regard, 19 breeding lines as well as two commercial cultivars were studied using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications in three locations during the 2020–2021 growing season. In this study, to identify the association among different traits and to select the best rapeseed lines based on multiple traits, genotype × trait (GT) and genotype × yield × trait (GYT) biplot analyses were used. The results showed that using GYT biplot is more efficient than GT biplot. Based on the GYT biplot and superiority index (SI), the breeding lines G16 and G18 were considered as superior genotypes in combination with the agronomical traits, that is, 1000‐seed weight, number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant, number of lateral branches, plant height, and pod length with seed yield, which represents a genetic gain in rapeseed breeding program. Based on seed yield combination with phenological traits (early maturity), the breeding line G15 was selected as the best one. Moreover, the line G2 was defined as the superior one in combination of seed yield with pod length. The results indicated that there is a potential for simultaneous genetic improvement of the characteristics (i.e., plant height, number of seeds per pod, early maturity) in rapeseed. Generally, the graphical method of the GYT biplot represented an efficient and practical new way to recognize superior genotypes based on multiple traits in rapeseed breeding programs.
Theoretical study of superheated vapor effect on liquid film condensation in a saturated porous medium using Forchheimer's model
Authors: Duwairi Hamzeh , Yaseen Ahmad Bani , Alrbai Mohammad
Published: November 2022

In this work, the superheated vapor effect on liquid film condensation in a saturated porous medium using Forchheimer's model has been investigated analytically and numerically. The applied governing equations, the continuity equation, the Forchheimer equation, and the energy equation were transformed using the similarity transformation technique into a dimensionless form using a set of suitable variables and then solved numerically using the Runge–Kutta method. Results obtained were graphically drawn to illustrate the effects of superheated vapor and subcooled liquid on the liquid film condensation, temperature, and heat transfer rate through the porous medium. It was found that the film thickness is a function of dimensionless parameters related to the degree of subcooling and Grashof number without a superheating effect. Consequently, the Nusselt number depends on the square root of the Rayleigh number, the Grashof number, and the dimensionless film thickness. It was also found that if superheating exists, the liquid film thickness then depends on four dimensionless parameters related to the Grashof number, the degree of subcooling of the liquid, the extent of the superheating of the surrounding vapor, and a property ratio of the liquid and the vapor phase.
The adverse effects of climate change on congenital birth defects
Authors: Moein Taghavi Hossein , Eldeeb Sohayla
Published: November 2022

Synopsis

Climate change can negatively affect and exacerbate congenital birth defects. These complications can be fatal and often undermine women's health as well.
Employee competency, diversity, and firm value
Authors: Le Linh , Nie Dongfang , Ta Anh , Prybutok Victor
Published: November 2022

The relationship between employee quality and firm outcomes is extensively explored in the literature. Prior research focuses on examining the quality of top managers in a limited number of industries or using smaller datasets. This study fills this literature gap using demographic characteristics from Metropolitan Statistical Areas, where firm headquarters are located as a proxy for employee quality. The findings show that firms with high employee quality in terms of employee competency and diversity exhibit higher firm value. The results show that ensuring the availability of an educated and diverse workforce provides long‐lasting firm value.
Vibrational spectrum of a 1D oscillator: The quantum, the Wigner, and the classical ways
Authors: Tan Jake A. , Takahashi Kaito
Published: November 2022

Infrared spectra have been used in many chemical applications, and theoretical calculations have been useful for analyzing these experimental results. While quantum mechanics is used for calculating the spectra for small molecules, classical mechanics is used for larger systems. However, a systematic understanding of the similarities and differences between the two approaches is not clear. Previous studies focused on peak position and relative intensities of the spectra obtained by various quantum and classical methods, but here, we included “absolute” intensities in the evaluation. The infrared spectrum of a one‐dimensional (1D) harmonic oscillator (HO) and Morse oscillator were examined using four treatments: quantum, Wigner, truncated Wigner, and classical microcanonical treatments. For a 1D HO with a linear dipole moment function (DMF), the quantum and Wigner treatments give nearly the same spectra. On the other hand, the truncated Wigner underestimates the fundamental transition's intensity by half. In the case of cubic DMF, the truncated Wigner and classical methods fail to reproduce the relative intensity between the fundamental and second overtone transitions. Unfortunately, all the Wigner and classical methods fail to agree with the quantum results for a Morse oscillator with just 1% anharmonicity.