bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ITO:n‐ZnO:p‐NiO and ITO:n‐ZnO:p‐NZO thin films: Study of crystalline structures, surface statistical metrics, and optical properties
Authors: Dejam Laya , Solaymani Shahram , Kulesza Slawomir , Ghaderi Atefeh , Ţălu Ştefan , Bramowicz Miroslaw
Published: August 2022

The article presents results on fabrication and characterization of transparent, oxide‐based junction diodes on quartz substrates. The devices are made by radio frequency magnetron sputtering in the form of sandwich structures: ITO:n‐ZnO:p‐NiO (homojunction) and ITO:n‐ZnO:p‐NZO (heterojunction). The microstructure, crystalline structure, and micromorphology features of deposited samples are studied by means of X‐ray diffraction, Atomic Force Microscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Obtained results are used to derive statistical, fractal and functional surface characteristics that exhibited secondary alignment patterns. Apart from that, optical and electrical measurements are carried out as well. Optical transmittance peaked at 80% in visible range, but substantially increased after annealing. Due to structural differences, heterojunction was found to follow linear current–voltage dependence specific of ohmic contacts, whereas homojunction was found to follow non‐linear characteristics as in junction diode.
PMN-MDSC in newborns: Regulation of the regulators
Authors: Jablonska Jadwiga , Brandau Sven
Published: August 2022

PMN-MDSC are pathologically activated neutrophils that acquire T cell (and NK cell) suppressive activity and thus function as negative regulators of effector lymphocytes in many disease conditions.[1] For many years, these PMN-MDSC have mainly been seen as contributors to disease progression and severity, best exemplified in the context of cancer. However, more recently, PMN-MDSC have also been described in newborn mice and humans.[2] This finding raised the question on the potential functional roles of these regulatory myeloid cells in neonate immunobiology. During the first days (mice) or weeks (human) of life, an initial seeding of microbiota in the gut takes place. The appearance of these microbiota triggers immune responses that could potentially lead to harmful inflammation and immunopathology. In this early phase of life, PMN-MDSC could be beneficial by limiting overshooting immune responses. Indeed, a recent paper by He et al.[3] describes the transient presence of PMN-MDSC during the first month of life. Such PMN-MDSC have been shown to suppress T cells in a contact-depended manner, but the mechanism behind the transitory nature of this phenomenon has not yet been elucidated. In this issue of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology Perego et al. describe molecular mechanisms that regulate this transient increase and subsequent decrease of PMN-MDSC in newborn mice.[4]
In vivo antioxidant activity of Cinnamomum cassia leaf residues and their effect on gut microbiota of d‐galactose‐induced aging model mice
Authors: Chen Lingqi , Hu Tenggen , Wu Ruiqing , Wang Hong , Wu Hong , Wen Peng
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

To thoroughly explore the values of Cinnamomum cassia leaf residues (CcLR), their antioxidant activity in vivo and the relationship with gut microbiota were investigated using d‐galactose‐induced aging mice.

RESULTS

Results showed that CcLR extract treatment exerted antioxidant activity by increasing the levels of superoxide dismutase (P < 0.01) and glutathione peroxidase (P < 0.05), as well as inhibiting the formation of malondialdehyde (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, the inflammatory response was also alleviated as the ratio of pro‐inflammatory tumor necrosis factor‐α (P < 0.01) and interleukin‐1β (P < 0.01))/anti‐inflammatory cytokines (interleukin‐10; P < 0.05) in serum was decreased and the contents of inflammatory markers (induced nitrogen monoxide synthase and nitric oxide) in brain and liver tissues (P < 0.01) were reduced. Moreover, through inhibiting acetylcholinesterase activity and improving choline acetyltransferase activity, the cholinergic system in aging mice recovered to levels comparable to the normal control group. In addition, 16S rRNA sequencing results demonstrated that CcLR extract promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria. In particular, Spearman correlation analysis revealed that the abundance of Colidextribacter was negatively correlated with serum superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05, R = −0.943), and Helicobacter displayed a positive correlation with the content of brain nitric oxide (P < 0.05, R = 0.899), suggesting that regulating gut microbiota might be one of the mechanisms for reducing oxidative stress, thus postponing the aging process.

CONCLUSION

It is suggested that CcLR extract could be used as a novel antioxidant and anti‐aging resource in the pharmaceutical and food industries. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Transcranial Sonography as a Diagnostic Tool for Depressive Disorders
Authors: Li Yanping , Cao Qian , Hou Zhuo , Tang Boji , Shen Yu
Published: August 2022

Background

Transcranial sonography (TCS) is an available and noninvasive neuroimaging method that has been found to reduce the echogenicity of the brainstem raphe (BR) in patients with depression. Applying the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders‐IV (DSM‐IV), we performed a meta‐analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of TCS.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. The databases were searched from inception to December 2021. The quality of the included literature was assessed using the QUADAS‐2. Heterogeneity analysis was performed. A summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve was generated to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of TCS.

Results

We included 12 studies with 809 patients. The pooled sensitivity was 0.66 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.61–0.71), and the specificity was 0.84 (95% CI: 0.80–0.87). The combined positive likelihood ratio (LR) was 3.84 (95% CI: 2.68–5.51), the negative LR was 0.41 (95% CI: 0.29–0.57), and the diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) was 11.45 (95% CI: 5.57–23.02). The area under the curve (AUC) of the plotted SROC curve was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.83–0.89). The meta‐regression and subgroup analyses found no source of heterogeneity.

Conclusion

TCS has high potential and efficacy in diagnosing depression and may be a reasonable test to perform clinically for the assessment of depression.
A Rare Case of Cochlear Implant Electrode Array Misplacement Into the Posterior Semicircular Canal
Authors: Zhao Christopher H. , Quimby Alexandra E. , Bigelow Douglas C.
Published: August 2022

Cochlear implant electrode array misplacement is a rare but serious complication that may result in failure of hearing rehabilitation, non‐auditory percepts, vestibular disturbance, or damage to adjacent neurovascular structures. We present a case of an elderly patient who suffered electrode array misplacement into the posterior semicircular canal, resulting in vestibular symptoms and severe downstream sequelae. The risk of misplacement may be higher in patients with a history of chronic otitis media or prior otologic surgery, and with the use of pre‐curved electrode arrays. Electrophysiological testing and intraoperative imaging may allow for early detection and intervention in these cases. Laryngoscope, 133:175–177, 2023
Hydrodynamic drivers of fine‐scale connectivity within a coral reef atoll
Authors: Grimaldi Camille M. , Lowe Ryan J. , Benthuysen Jessica A. , Cuttler Michael V. W. , Green Rebecca H. , Radford Ben , Ryan Nicole , Gilmour James
Published: August 2022

An accurate representation of physical and biological processes is crucial to resolve larval dispersal pathways and characterize connectivity of coral reef ecosystems. We investigate how hydrodynamic forcings drive larval retention rates during the bi‐annual mass coral spawning of the coral genus Acropora within a coral reef atoll (Mermaid Reef), located off northwestern Australia. By analyzing hydrodynamic conditions during 41 yr of historical spring and autumn coral spawning events, we identify typical and extreme hydrodynamic forcing conditions. Particle tracking using the output from a fine‐scale coupled wave‐flow hydrodynamic model forced with typical hydrodynamic conditions during coral spawning, revealed a mean transport of larvae eastward across the atoll. Transport was mainly driven by a combination of wave and tidal currents, where the residual tidal flow and unidirectional wave flow increased the net export of particles, and the oscillatory tidal (non‐residual) flow reduced the net export of particles from the reef. Importantly, however, numerical simulations forced with extreme hydrodynamic conditions generated by episodic tropical cyclones (11 out of 41 yr) showed large deviations from the typical eastward flow during autumn spawning, generating different connectivity pathways within the reef. Considering the substantial time larvae can be retained within reef systems, overlooking fine‐scale hydrodynamic processes may greatly overestimate larval transport distances between adjacent coral reef atolls. As a result, we emphasize the need to consider fine‐scale hydrodynamic processes within regional connectivity predictions, which is generally not considered yet critical to understand the capacity of reefs to recover following disturbances.
Topological Effects on Cyclic Co‐Poly(ionic liquid)s Self‐Assembly
Authors: Tang Qingquan , Ren Hao , Kochovski Zdravko , Cheng Lisheng , Zhang Ke , Yuan Jiayin , Zhang Weiyi
Published: August 2022

Topological geometry of poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs), such as brush‐like, knot‐like, hyperbranched and randomly coiled, often exerts a strong influence on their self‐assembly behaviors. As a primary topological form, the cyclic topology‐derived effects have not been investigated on PILs, which concerns synergy of charges and zero chain end. Herein, linear and cyclic poly(ionic liquid) copolymers (co‐PILs) with randomly distributed counter anions of B(Ph)4− and Br− by a template method in combination with a follow‐up partial anion exchange is prepared. The self‐assembly phenomena of linear and cyclic co‐PILs are studied in selective solvents, where the hydrophobic counter anions B(Ph)4− and hydrophilic counter anions Br− aggregated to form cores and corona in the assembled nanospheres, showing the average size of cyclic co‐PILs nanospheres is 46.2% smaller (≈120 nm) than linear co‐PILs nano‐assemblies (≈176 nm). Based on the CGMD simulations, the authors speculate that the spherical aggregates are formed by transitioning from micelles with gradient block‐like structures, which formed by enriched hydrophobic counter anions in the core and enriched hydrophilic counter anions in the corona. These results indicate a novel synergy of topology effects and dynamic anion movements, as revealed by cyclic co‐PIL self‐assembly in this work.
Highly Conductive, Transparent, Adhesive, and Self‐Healable Ionogel Based on a Deep Eutectic Solvent with Widely Adjustable Mechanical Strength
Authors: Wu Yingxue , Jiang Wenxing , Zhang Xianhong , Wang Jiadong , Chen Dong , Ma Yuhong , Yang Wantai
Published: August 2022

Ionogels have attracted intensive attentions as promising flexible conductive materials. However, simultaneous integration of excellent mechanical properties, high conductivity, outstanding self‐healing ability, and strong adhesiveness is still challenging. Here, an ingenious composition design is proposed to address this long‐standing challenge of ionogels. High‐performance PEI/PAA/CMC ionogels, consist of a loosely cross‐linked poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) network, dynamically cross‐linked network based on polycationic polyethyleneimine (PEI) and polyanionic PAA, and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) reinforcing filler, are formed in a deep eutectic solvent (DES) composed of choline chloride and urea. Benefiting from the loose PAA network and dynamic noncovalent interactions, ionogels with both highly enhanced mechanical robustness and excellent conductivity are obtained at high loading of DES, overcoming the strength‐ductility/conductivity trade‐off dilemma. By adjusting PEI/PAA mass ratio, the tensile strength and strain of PEI/PAA/CMC ionogels are effectively controlled in a wide range of 0.15–7.9 MPa and 232–1161%, respectively, while maintaining the desirable conductivity of ≈10−4 S cm−1. Besides, healed tensile strength over 2.1 MPa and adhesion strength up to 0.2 MPa are achieved for the PEI0.06/PAA0.25/CMC0.01 ionogel. The delicate design strategy provides a feasible approach to prepare ionogels with outstanding comprehensive performance, which have potential for applications in flexible electronics.
Report of two pedigrees with heterozygous HTRA1 variants‐related cerebral small vessel disease and literature review
Authors: Zhou Hui , Jiao Bin , Ouyang Ziyu , Wu Qihui , Shen Lu , Fang Liangjuan
Published: August 2022

Background

Biallelic HTRA1 pathogenic variants are associated with autosomal recessive cerebral arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CARASIL). Recent studies have indicated that heterozygous HTRA1 variants are related to autosomal dominant hereditary cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). However, few studies have assessed heterozygous HTRA1 carriers or the genotype–phenotype correlation.

Methods

The clinical data of two unrelated Chinese Han families with CSVD were collected. Panel sequencing was used to search for pathogenic genes, Sanger sequencing was used for verification, three‐dimensional protein models were constructed, and pathogenicity was analyzed. Published HTRA1‐related phenotypes included in PubMed up to September 2021 were extensively reviewed, and the patients' genetic and clinical characteristics were summarized.

Results

We report a novel heterozygous variant c.920T>C p.L307P in the HTRA1, whose main clinical and neuroimaging phenotypes are stroke and gait disturbance. We report another patient with the previously reported pathogenic variant HTRA1 c.589C>T p.R197X characterized by early cognitive decline. A literature review indicated that compared with CARASIL, HTRA1‐related autosomal dominant hereditary CSVD has a later onset age, milder clinical symptoms, fewer extraneurological symptoms, and slower progression, indicating a milder CARASIL phenotype. In addition, HTRA1 heterozygous variants were related to a higher proportion of vascular risk factors (p < .001) and male sex (p = .022).

Conclusion

These findings broaden the known mutational spectrum and possible clinical phenotype of HTRA1. Considering the semidominant characteristics of HTRA1‐related phenotypes, we recommend that all members of HTRA1 variant families undergo genetic screening and clinical follow‐up if carrying pathogenic variants.
Pedicled double‐paddle vertical posteromedial thigh flap for double‐layer closure and reconstruction of upper thigh defect after sarcoma resection: A case report
Authors: Fritz Caroline , Meroni Matteo , Tartanus Justyna , Fuchs Bruno , Scaglioni Mario F.
Published: August 2022

Large soft tissue defects in the anterior upper thigh region represent a challenging problem in reconstructive surgery. Sarcomas are rather commonly localized in this area and they may reach extensive dimensions before surgery. The debulking procedures must be radical, which often leads to a displacement of major neurovascular structures. In the present work, we report the use of a pedicled double‐paddle vertical posteromedial thigh (vPMT) flap to reconstruct a 16 cm × 8 cm soft tissue defect with exposure of the superficial and deep femoral vessels after resection of a myxoid liposarcoma. The vPMT flap was based on two perforators of the profunda femoris artery. Therefore, the cutaneous island could be split into two islands measuring 12 cm × 6 cm and 9 cm × 6 cm, which were exploited to fill the dead space below and over the vessels, reaching a satisfactory volume restoration and tension‐free skin closure. The further post‐operative course was uneventful. The perforator dissection might be complex and requires a good experience, however, we believe that in similar cases the pedicled double‐paddle vPMT flap can be a valid solution when other options are not feasible. Moreover, this allows avoiding a free microsurgical transfer and fulfills the dictum of replacing “like‐with‐like tissue”. No characterizations of the employment of a pedicled chimeric vPMT flap for locoregional multilayer reconstruction are available so far.
Balancing anti‐migration and anti‐aging behavior of binary antioxidants for high‐performance 1,2‐polybutadiene rubber
Authors: Han Long , Geng Jieting , Wang Zhaobo , Hua Jing
Published: August 2022

For rubber materials, the antioxidants are significant for maintaining the long service life when suffering from external stimuli. However, the common low‐molecular‐weight antioxidants easily migrate to the rubber surface and lose the anti‐aging effect. In this work, we develop highly anti‐migration hindered phenolic antioxidants, which have been obtained by covalently grafting 3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐hydroxybenzoic acid (AO) onto carbon nanotubes (CNTs). To improve the adhesion of AO and CNTs, the polydopamine with the potential reactive functional groups was linked between antioxidants and CNTs by mussel biomimetic strategy. The binary antioxidants integrated the good reinforcement and dispersity of CNTs with the anti‐aging characteristics of hindered phenol. What is more, the experimental results indicate that the total loading efficiency of AO could reach 11.7 wt%. The 1,2‐Polybutadiene/CNTs‐AO composites could be stored in a thermal oxidation environment for 15 days with minimal degradation of mechanical properties. This strategy proposed herein provides insights into the development of highly anti‐migration and anti‐aging antioxidants by a simple, cost‐effective, and pollution‐free method.
Evaluation of the oligomeric epoxy silane as coupling agent on thermal and mechanical properties of water‐based acrylate adhesives
Authors: Romão Eduardo Gouveia Martins , Oliveira Maurício Pinheiro , Guerrini Lília Müller
Published: August 2022

To improve the thermal and mechanical properties of water‐based acrylate adhesives, epoxy functional silane oligomer (EFS) was investigated as a crosslinking agent at different curing temperatures from 100 to 140°C. Water‐based acrylate adhesives with different EFS concentrations (0.0–2.0 wt%) were prepared and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT‐IR), colloidal stability, water absorption, mechanical and thermal properties. The thermal and mechanical properties of samples were investigated by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), tensile testing, Izod impact, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The amount of EFS had a significant influence on the crosslinking process and curing temperature. FT‐IR and TGA analysis revealed successful crosslinking of EFS with the water‐based acrylate adhesive at 100°C temperature. The use of EFS after different curing processes showed higher tensile strength and lower water absorption. Among the percentage of EPS studied, the use of 1.0 wt% presented the most promising results for the improvement thermal and mechanical properties. In addition, the results obtained in this study provide new insights into the use of EFS as a coupling agent of water‐based acrylate adhesives for wood‐fiber composites, as well as in the particleboard panels industry.
Emotion and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy: A prospective study into surgical decision‐making
Authors: Krasniak Peter J. , Nguyen Minh , Janse Sarah , Phommasathit Crystal , Clevenger Kaleigh , Renshaw Savannah , Agnese Doreen M. , Padamsee Tasleem J. , Lee Clara N.
Published: August 2022

Objective

Patients with non‐familial, unilateral breast cancer have a low risk of contralateral breast cancer. Thus, clinical studies have shown no survival benefit for patients who undergo contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) compared to those undergoing unilateral surgeries for non‐familial unilateral breast cancers. Despite this evidence, there has been a steady increase in rates of CPM in the U.S. Patient factors influencing this choice have been identified in previous studies, but seldom in a prospective manner. This prospective study was designed to assess emotion and any association with a patient's decision to ultimately undergo CPM.

Methods

We recruited patients with newly diagnosed, unilateral, non‐metastatic breast cancer, who had not yet had surgery, to participate in a prospective, longitudinal study to examine the impact of emotions on CPM decision‐making.

Results

Among the 86 final participants, all completed the pre‐visit survey (100%) and 52 patients completed the post‐visit survey (60%). Patients undergoing CPM were significantly younger than those who did not. There was no statistically significant association between emotion and receipt of CPM. There was a trend towards undergoing CPM in patients with a less open personality type and those with more negative emotion, though not statistically significant.

Conclusions

This study found a trend toward increased CPM receipt in those with less open personality types and more negative emotion, especially post‐consultation, but none of these findings was significant. Future work should include development of cancer‐specific emotion scales and larger studies of possible connections between emotion, personality type and surgical decision‐making for breast cancer patients.
PNGase H + variant from Rudaea cellulosilytica with improved deglycosylation efficiency for rapid analysis of eukaryotic N‐glycans and hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry analysis of glycoproteins
Authors: Guo Rui‐Rui , Zhang Tian‐Chan , Lambert Thomas Ole Tandrup , Wang Ting , Voglmeir Josef , Rand Kasper D. , Liu Li
Published: August 2022

The analysis of glycoproteins and the comparison of protein N‐glycosylation from different eukaryotic origins require unbiased and robust analytical workflows. The structural and functional analysis of vertebrate protein N‐glycosylation currently depends extensively on bacterial peptide‐N4‐(N‐acetyl‐β‐glucosaminyl) asparagine amidases (PNGases), which are indispensable enzymatic tools in releasing asparagine‐linked oligosaccharides (N‐glycans) from glycoproteins. So far, only limited PNGase candidates are available for N‐glycans analysis, and particularly the analysis of plant and invertebrate N‐glycans is hampered by the lack of suitable PNGases. Furthermore, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) workflows, such as hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX‐MS), require a highly efficient enzymatic release of N‐glycans at low pH values to facilitate the comprehensive structural analysis of glycoproteins. Herein, we describe a previously unstudied superacidic bacterial N‐glycanase (PNGase H+) originating from the soil bacterium Rudaea cellulosilytica (Rc), which has significantly improved enzymatic properties compared to previously described PNGase H+ variants. Active and soluble recombinant PNGase Rc was expressed at a higher protein level (3.8‐fold) and with higher specific activity (~56% increase) compared to the currently used PNGase H+ variant from Dyella japonicum (Dj). Recombinant PNGase Rc was able to deglycosylate the glycoproteins horseradish peroxidase and bovine lactoferrin significantly faster than PNGase Dj (10 min vs. 6 h). The versatility of PNGase Rc was demonstrated by releasing N‐glycans from a diverse array of samples such as peach fruit, king trumpet mushroom, mouse serum, and the soil nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The presence of only two disulfide bonds shown in the AlphaFold protein model (so far all other superacidic PNGases possess more disulfide bonds) could be corroborated by intact mass‐ and peptide mapping analysis and provides a possible explanation for the improved recombinant expression yield of PNGase Rc.
Norovirus outbreaks in China, 2000–2018: A systematic review
Authors: Yu Fan , Jiang Bo , Guo Xinhui , Hou Liyu , Tian Yi , Zhang Jiaying , Li Qianqian , Jia Lei , Yang Peng , Wang Quanyi , Pang Xinghuo , Gao Zhiyong
Published: August 2022

To understand epidemiological characteristics of norovirus outbreaks in China from 2000 to 2018 the literature on norovirus outbreaks was identified by searching WANFANG, CNKI, PubMed, and Web of Science databases before 31 December 2018. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Product Service Solutions software. RStudio1.4.1717 and ArcGIS trial version were used for plotting bar graphs and maps. A total of 419 norovirus outbreaks were reported in the 394 included articles, which occurred between June 2000 and October 2018, showing an overall increasing trend. The majority of outbreaks occurred in schools (52.28%, 218/417) and kindergartens (55/417, 13.19%). Person‐to‐person transmission (41.64%, 137/329) was most common, followed by food‐borne transmission (75/329, 22.80%) and water‐borne transmission (72/329, 21.88%). GII was the most predominant norovirus genogroup, with GII.4, GII.17 and GII.2 being the dominant genotypes in 2007–2013, 2014–2015, 2016–2017, respectively. Increased outbreaks were associated with the prevalence of new variants. Most norovirus outbreaks were reported in the southeast of the country. The number of norovirus outbreaks was positively associated with the per capita gross domestic product and the year‐end resident population. Norovirus outbreaks have become an important public health problem in China. It is necessary to establish surveillance in hospitals and nursing homes. Genotyping of noroviruses is important for monitoring the circulating strains and improving the vaccine design, so it should be carried out in more regions.
Direct determination of Mn valence states in mixed‐valent manganates by photoluminescence spectroscopy
Authors: Chakrapani Vidhya , Wang Chenying , Wang Qi , Smieszek Nicholas
Published: August 2022

Mn‐based materials are excellent catalysts with applications in many complex heterogeneous charge transfer processes because of their ability to exist in several stable oxidation states. However, accurate detection of Mn valence states is challenging due to the limitations of X‐ray‐based spectroscopic techniques to successfully resolve individual oxidation states. In this work, we performed a combined photoluminescence (PL) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of many Mn compounds to show that PL spectroscopy can consistently detect Mn in different oxidation states and their composition can be determined through a simple fitting procedure. The results suggest that PL spectroscopy can be a relatively simpler, benchtop alternative to X‐ray based techniques for direct metal cation detection without the need for multiplet fitting analysis.
Doubly robust estimation of optimal dynamic treatment regimes with multicategory treatments and survival outcomes
Authors: Zhang Zhang , Yi Danhui , Fan Yiwei
Published: August 2022

Patients with chronic diseases, such as cancer or epilepsy, are often followed through multiple stages of clinical interventions. Dynamic treatment regimes (DTRs) are sequences of decision rules that assign treatments at each stage based on measured covariates for each patient. A DTR is said to be optimal if the expectation of the desirable clinical benefit reaches a maximum when applied to a population. When there are three or more options for treatments at each decision point and the clinical outcome of interest is a time‐to‐event variable, estimating an optimal DTR can be complicated. We propose a doubly robust method to estimate optimal DTRs with multicategory treatments and survival outcomes. A novel blip function is defined to measure the difference in expected outcomes among treatments, and a doubly robust weighted least squares algorithm is designed for parameter estimation. Simulations using various weight functions and scenarios support the advantages of the proposed method in estimating optimal DTRs over existing approaches. We further illustrate the practical value of our method by applying it to data from the Standard and New Antiepileptic Drugs study. In this analysis, the proposed method supports the use of the new drug lamotrigine over the standard option carbamazepine. When the actual treatments match the estimated optimal treatments, survival outcomes tend to be better. The newly developed method provides a practical approach for clinicians that is not limited to cases of binary treatment options.
Design of Bifunctional Nb/V Interfaces for Improving Reversible Hydrogen Storage Performance of MgH2
Authors: Meng Yang , Ju Shunlong , Chen Wei , Chen Xiaowei , Xia Guanglin , Sun Dalin , Yu Xuebin
Published: August 2022

While MgH2 has been widely regarded as a promising solid‐state hydrogen storage material, the high operating temperature and sluggish kinetics pose a major bottleneck for its practical application. Herein, V4Nb18O55 microspheres composed of nanoparticles with size of tens of nanometers are fabricated to promote H2 desorption and absorption properties of MgH2, which results in the uniform formation of Nb/V interfaces based on a molecular scale during the reversible hydrogen storage process. It is experimentally and theoretically demonstrated that the uniform building of Nb/V interfaces not only preserves the ability of Nb in weakening Mg‐H bonds but also alleviates the strong adsorption capacity of metallic Nb toward hydrogen atoms, leading to a relative energy barrier for the whole dehydrogenation process of MgH2 of only 0.5 eV, which is 0.22 and 0.43 eV lower than that of Nb and V, respectively. As a result, under the addition of V4Nb18O55 microspheres, the onset H2 desorption temperature of MgH2 is decreased to 165 °C, 125 °C lower than that of bulk MgH2, and the complete hydrogenation of Mg could be realized even at room temperature, while almost no H2 adsorption is observed for bulk Mg at a high temperature of 50 °C.
Influence of Mutant Wx‐D1f Allele on Synthesis of Amylose and Extra‐Long Chains of Amylopectin in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Kiribuchi‐Otobe Chikako , Yamamori Makoto , Fujita Masaya , Kojima Hisayo , Hatta Koichi , Tougou Makoto
Published: August 2022

Waxy wheat lines carrying null alleles at the loci Wx‐A1 and Wx‐B1 and a mutated Wx‐D1 allele (Wx‐D1f) generate unique pasting curves on a Rapid Visco Analyzer. The initial pasting temperature, peak viscosity, and final viscosity are found to not differ markedly between waxy wheat carrying Wx‐D1b and waxy wheat carrying Wx‐D1f, but the hot‐paste viscosity is more stable in the case of waxy wheat carrying Wx‐D1f. The study seeks to determine the cause for this unique starch property. Whereas amylopectin chain‐length distribution is similar in wheat lines #211 (Wx‐A1b, Wx‐B1b, Wx‐D1a) and #234 (Wx‐A1b, Wx‐B1b, Wx‐D1f), #234 contained 7.0% amylose and 1.3% extra‐long chains (ELCs) of amylopectin, levels corresponding to 1/3 and 2/3 of the content of amylose and ELCs of amylopectin in #211, respectively. Moreover, #234 contains a small‐chain amylose not detected in #211. Therefore, this study concludes that the unique starch characteristics of waxy wheat carrying Wx‐D1f may be due to the relatively high quantity of ELCs of amylopectin and/or the low‐molecular‐weight amylose.
Prediction of capacity of reinforced concrete shear wall with multiple openings by using nonlinear finite element analysis
Authors: Erbaş Yaşar , Anıl Özgür , Özdemir Anıl , Kopraman Yağmur
Published: August 2022

The effect of openings left in reinforced concrete shear walls due to functional requirements or architectural reasons is an important issue that should not be underestimated mainly since shear walls are considered as one of the most critical load‐carrying members in a structure owing to playing an active role against seismic forces. In this paper, a parametric study was carried out by creating a nonlinear finite element model to determine the effects of openings in reinforced concrete shear walls on the maximum shear force bearing capacities, initial stiffness, displacement ductility ratios, and energy dissipation capacities of the shear walls. The variables examined in the study were the size of the openings left in the reinforced concrete shear walls, opening location, the number of openings, and the concrete compressive strength used in the production of the shear walls. In the first part of the study, nonlinear finite element models of three experimental shear wall test elements: one with no opening (solid), and two with openings: were created using ABAQUS finite element software package, then verified by comparing the numerical analysis results with the experimental results. In the second part of the study, a nonlinear finite element model of 44 reinforced concrete shear walls, including the parameters planned to be investigated, was created by using the verified model, and finite element model (FEM) analyses were performed. As a result of numerical analyses, a capacity reduction coefficient proposal has been developed to calculate the shear force capacities of reinforced concrete shear walls with openings.
“Why Should I Not Speak My Own Language (Chinese) in Public in America?”: Linguistic Racism, Symbolic Violence, and Resistance
Authors: Wang Min , Dovchin Sender
Published: August 2022

This article seeks to understand a Chinese international student's (Hong's) encounters with linguistic racism as symbolic violence as well as why and how he resisted different forms of linguistic racism in different situations. Data findings suggest that linguistic racism as symbolic violence takes different forms through both verbal and nonverbal language under the scrutiny of the white gaze, which produces arbitrary power, control, and domination. This triad of linguistic racism, symbolic violence, and the white gaze formed an intersection, which was practiced through visible and hearable linguistic modalities immediately to subordinate and oppress Hong as a victim. The researchers argue that the triad of linguistic racism, symbolic violence, and the white gaze works hand in glove with each other to construct an intersection, which reproduces and reinforces structures of domination and hierarchy. The researchers, therefore, suggest that more research is needed to deconstruct the complexity and subtlety of the intersection of linguistic racism, symbolic violence, and the white gaze. Educational implications for recognizing and combating linguistic racism are also addressed.
Nano‐embedded medical devices and delivery systems in interventional radiology
Authors: San Valentin Erin Marie D. , Barcena Allan John R. , Klusman Carleigh , Martin Benjamin , Melancon Marites P.
Published: August 2022

Nanomaterials research has significantly accelerated the development of the field of vascular and interventional radiology. The incorporation of nanoparticles with unique and functional properties into medical devices and delivery systems has paved the way for the creation of novel diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for various clinical disorders. In this review, we discuss the advancements in the field of interventional radiology and the role of nanotechnology in maximizing the benefits and mitigating the disadvantages of interventional radiology theranostic procedures. Several nanomaterials have been studied to improve the efficacy of interventional radiology interventions, reduce the complications associated with medical devices, improve the accuracy and efficiency of drug delivery systems, and develop innovative imaging modalities. Here, we summarize the recent progress in the development of medical devices and delivery systems that link nanotechnology in vascular and interventional radiology.

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Cardiovascular Disease
Microscopic and macroscopic effects in the decoherence of neutrino oscillations
Authors: Cheng Ting , Lindner Manfred , Rodejohann Werner
Published: August 2022

Abstract

We present a generic structure (the layer structure) for decoherence effects in neutrino oscillations, which includes decoherence from quantum mechanical and classical uncertainties. The calculation is done by combining the concept of open quantum system and quantum field theory, forming a structure composed of phase spaces from microscopic to macroscopic level. Having information loss at different levels, quantum mechanical uncertainties parameterize decoherence by an intrinsic mass eigenstate separation effect, while decoherence for classical uncertainties is typically dominated by a statistical averaging effect. With the help of the layer structure, we classify the former as state decoherence (SD) and the latter as phase decoherence (PD), then further conclude that both SD and PD result from phase wash-out effects of different phase structures on different layers. Such effects admit for simple numerical calculations of decoherence for a given width and shape of uncertainties. While our structure is generic, so are the uncertainties, nonetheless, a few notable ones are: the wavepacket size of the external particles, the effective interaction volume at production and detection, the energy reconstruction model and the neutrino production profile. Furthermore, we estimate the experimental sensitivities for SD and PD parameterized by the uncertainty parameters, for reactor neutrinos and decay-at-rest neutrinos, using a traditional rate measuring method and a novel phase measuring method.
A Smörgåsbord of Skyrmions
Authors: Gudnason Sven Bjarke , Halcrow Chris
Published: August 2022

Abstract

We study static solutions of the standard Skyrme model with a pion mass. Using approximately 105 pseudo-random initial configurations made of single Skyrmions in the non-symmetrized product Ansatz and an automatic detection of repeated solutions, we find 409 local energy minimizers (Skyrmions) of the model with baryon numbers 1 through 16, of which 383 are new. In particular, we find new solutions for baryon numbers 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16. Our results for the number of solutions per baryon number suggest that this number could grow either polynomially or exponentially. We identify new families of solutions: sheets of Skyrmions in synchronized and antisynchronized hexagonal layers (which we call graphene); chains of 2- and 3-tori; chain-like solutions containing a hinge and many clustered Skyrmions. Contrary to common lore, only the B = 12 global energy minimizer is made of alpha particles or some chunk of a cubic crystal, whereas the B = 9, 11, 14, 15 minimizers contain the B = 7 icosahedrally symmetric Skyrmion as a component. The B = 10, 13, 16 are symmetric graphene-like solutions. We find B = 5 and B = 8 minimizers with numerically indistinguishable energies. The B = 8 candidates are the chain of two cubes, which is a chunk of the cubic Skyrme crystal and the fullerene-type ball found originally by the rational map approximation. The B = 5 global minimizer is either the well-known D2d symmetric fullerene or a new C2v symmetric solution. Finally, our findings show a large number of solutions have no discrete symmetries or just one symmetry, contrary to the common lore that Skyrmions are highly symmetric configurations.
Associations between total dairy, high-fat dairy and low-fat dairy intake, and depressive symptoms: findings from a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Hockey Meghan , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Tolmunen Tommi , Hantunen Sari , Tuomainen Tomi-Pekka , Macpherson Helen , Jacka Felice N. , Virtanen Jyrki K. , Rocks Tetyana , Ruusunen Anu
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Evidence on the association between dairy intake and depression is conflicting. Given numerous dietary guidelines recommend the consumption of low-fat dairy products, this study examined associations between total dairy, high-fat dairy, and low-fat dairy intake and the prevalence of elevated depressive symptoms. Associations between dairy products, which differed in both fat content and fermentation status, and depressive symptoms were also explored.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 1600 Finnish adults (mean age 63 ± 6 years; 51% female) recruited as part of the Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study. Dairy intake was assessed using 4-day food records. Elevated depressive symptoms were defined as having a score ≥ 5 on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-III Depression Scale, and/or regularly using one or more prescription drugs for depressive symptoms.

Results

In total, 166 participants (10.4%) reported having elevated depressive symptoms. Using multivariate logistic regression models, intake in the highest tertile of high-fat dairy products (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.41–0.998, p trend = 0.04) and high-fat non-fermented dairy products (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.39–0.92, p trend = 0.02) were associated with reduced odds for having elevated depressive symptoms. Whereas no significant association was observed between intake of total dairy, low-fat dairy, or other dairy products, and depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Higher intake of high-fat dairy and high-fat non-fermented dairy products were associated with reduced odds for having elevated depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older Finnish adults. Given the high global consumption of dairy products, and widespread burden of depression, longitudinal studies that seek to corroborate these findings are required.
Self-perceived dysphagia in non-invasively ventilated COVID-19 patients
Authors: Shadi Mariam S. , Farahat Mohamed
Published: August 2022

Purpose

COVID-19 is known to present with a wide range of clinical symptoms. COVID-19-related dysphagia has been frequently investigated in patients who were critically ill and mechanically ventilated, but not in those with less severe presentations. This study aims to identify the frequency, characteristics, and severity of self-perceived oropharyngeal dysphagia in non-intubated COVID-19 patients.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from patients using a self-administered questionnaire that included the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10).

Results

The study included 359 participants with a median age of 34 (range: 18–65) years. Self-perceived dysphagia (EAT-10 total score > 2) was identified in 64.62%, and their median EAT-10 total score was 13 (range 3–40). The most prevalent symptoms were painful swallowing, affected pleasure of eating, stressful swallowing, and coughing while eating. Age, gender, and hospitalization were not statistically significantly associated with the presence of dysphagia, while re-infection, duration, and severity of COVID-19 diagnosis were. The EAT-10 total score was higher in moderate and severe COVID-19 cases as compared to mild cases, and showed a statistically significant inverse correlation with the duration of COVID-19 (r = − 0.267).

Conclusion

Self-perceived dysphagia was prevalent in non-intubated COVID-19 patients. Its severity was related to that of COVID-19 and its duration.
Homeostatic plasticity of eye movement performance in Xenopus tadpoles following prolonged visual image motion stimulation
Authors: Forsthofer Michael , Straka Hans
Published: August 2022

Visual image motion-driven ocular motor behaviors such as the optokinetic reflex (OKR) provide sensory feedback for optimizing gaze stability during head/body motion. The performance of this visuo-motor reflex is subject to plastic alterations depending on requirements imposed by specific eco-physiological or developmental circumstances. While visuo-motor plasticity can be experimentally induced by various combinations of motion-related stimuli, the extent to which such evoked behavioral alterations contribute to the behavioral demands of an environment remains often obscure. Here, we used isolated preparations of Xenopus laevis tadpoles to assess the extent and ontogenetic dependency of visuo-motor plasticity during prolonged visual image motion. While a reliable attenuation of large OKR amplitudes can be induced already in young larvae, a robust response magnitude-dependent bidirectional plasticity is present only at older developmental stages. The possibility of older larvae to faithfully enhance small OKR amplitudes coincides with the developmental maturation of inferior olivary–Purkinje cell signal integration. This conclusion was supported by the loss of behavioral plasticity following transection of the climbing fiber pathway and by the immunohistochemical demonstration of a considerable volumetric extension of the Purkinje cell dendritic area between the two tested stages. The bidirectional behavioral alterations with different developmental onsets might functionally serve to standardize the motor output, comparable to the known differential adaptability of vestibulo-ocular reflexes in these animals. This homeostatic plasticity potentially equilibrates the working range of ocular motor behaviors during altered visuo-vestibular conditions or prolonged head/body motion to fine-tune resultant eye movements.
A comparative histological study of the effect of TheraCal LC and biodentine on direct pulp capping in rabbits: an experimental study
Authors: Kayad Mahmoud , Koura Azza , El-Nozahy Amira
Published: August 2022

Objectives

This study histologically compared the effect of TheraCal LC and biodentine on direct pulp capping using a rabbit model.

Materials and methods

A direct pulp capping procedure was performed on 40 mandibular central incisors of 20 healthy, male New Zealand white rabbits. TheraCal LC and biodentine were applied to exposed pulp and 10 randomly selected rabbits were euthanized after the first and second week. Incisors were extracted and prepared for histological processing and examination to check the dentine bridge thickness, continuity, and extent of pulp inflammation. A blinded data analysis was performed, and groups were compared using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test while changes across time within each group were assessed using the Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

When comparing the dentine bridge thickness, biodentine showed a significantly thicker dentine bridge in the first and second week (mean 28.16 µm, 33.66 µm), while TheraCal LC showed a dentine bridge in the second week only (mean 15.93 µm). Regarding dentine bridge continuity, biodentine showed a significantly better dentine bridge in the first week. Additionally, there was no difference in the second week. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference between each of the materials regarding the extent of inflammation.

Conclusions

Biodentine in vivo showed better results concerning thickness and continuity of the dentine bridge after direct pulp capping in rabbit incisors. Both biodentine and TheraCal LC had a similar inflammatory effect on the pulp.

Clinical relevance

Biodentine is more successful as a direct pulp capping material compared to TheraCal LC.