bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pandemic responses at the subnational level: Exploring politics, administration, and politicization in Swedish municipalities
Authors: Sparf Jörgen , Petridou Evangelia , Granberg Mikael , Becker Per , Onn Beatrice
Published: May 2022

The Swedish response to the pandemic at the national level has attracted considerable international attention, but little focus has been placed on the way municipalities dealt with the crisis. Using Hay's dimensions of politicization, namely the capacity for human agency, deliberation in the public domain, and social context, we analyze the politicization of the municipal response to the pandemic in Sweden. We do this based on the analysis of the decision making process to activate (or not) an extraordinary crisis management committee. We find inter alia, that (i) only a quarter of the municipalities activated the committee while a majority of them had an alternate special organization in place; (ii) support to the existing organizational structure was more salient than creating an extraordinary organization, and (iii) a robust municipal structure was deemed to be one able to withstand shocks without resorting to extraordinary governance arrangements. We find a ‘conditioned politicization’ of the response, privileging administration over politics.
Discovery of versatile bat‐shaped acceptor materials for high‐performance organic solar cells ‐ a DFT approach
Authors: Siddique Sabir Ali , Altaf Sadia , Ahmed Ejaz , Naveed Sabiha , Siddique Muhammad Bilal Ahmed , Hussain Riaz , Liu Xin , Rauf Abdul , Arshad Muhammad
Published: May 2022

To address the growing demand for competent photovoltaic materials, the electronic structure, and optoelectronic properties of eight molecules X1 (thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene), X2 (5,5′‐bithiazole), X3 (2,2′‐bithiophene), X4 (furan), X5 (1H‐pyrrole), X6 (furo[3,2‐b]furan), X7 (5‐(1H‐imidazol‐5‐yl)oxazole), X8 (3H,3′H‐4,4′‐biimidazole) designed via π‐spacer modification were investigated by extensive density functional theory (DFT) based calculations. The calculated HOMO‐LUMO energy (Eg) values of these designed molecules are less than alkoxy‐substituted benzothiadiazole and a rhodamine end group reference (R, Eg = 2.55 eV), whereas X8 shows the lowest (Eg = 2.17 eV) suggesting a greater charge transfer rate upon blending with donor polymer PTB7‐Th. The values of open‐circuit voltages for designed molecules are 2.30, 2.52, 2.23, 2.52, 2.37, 2.19, 2.53, and 2.18 V for X1‐X8, respectively, where X3, X6, and X8 shown lower voltages than the reference R (2.30 V). Similarly, the 0.13 eV difference of reorganization energy value of X1 compared to reference R, demonstrates higher charge transfer by X1 due to its lower hole mobility. The findings suggest potentially superior performance of organic solar cells (OSCs) fabricated with the designed molecules (X1‐X8).
Estimations of the weather effects on brain functions using functional MRI: A cautionary note
Authors: Di Xin , Woelfer Marie , Kühn Simone , Zhang Zhiguo , Biswal Bharat B.
Published: May 2022

The influences of environmental factors such as weather on the human brain are still largely unknown. A few neuroimaging studies have demonstrated seasonal effects, but were limited by their cross‐sectional design or sample sizes. Most importantly, the stability of the MRI scanner has not been taken into account, which may also be affected by environments. In the current study, we analyzed longitudinal resting‐state functional MRI (fMRI) data from eight individuals, where they were scanned over months to years. We applied machine learning regression to use different resting‐state parameters, including the amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations (ALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo), and functional connectivity matrix, to predict different weather and environmental parameters. For careful control, the raw EPI and the anatomical images were also used for predictions. We first found that daylight length and air temperatures could be reliably predicted with cross‐validation using the resting‐state parameters. However, similar prediction accuracies could also be achieved by using one frame of EPI image, and even higher accuracies could be achieved by using the segmented or raw anatomical images. Finally, the signals outside of the brain in the anatomical images and signals in phantom scans could also achieve higher prediction accuracies, suggesting that the predictability may be due to the baseline signals of the MRI scanner. After all, we did not identify detectable influences of weather on brain functions other than the influences on the baseline signals of MRI scanners. The results highlight the difficulty of studying long‐term effects using MRI.
Cytologic diagnosis of parotid gland Warthin tumor: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Fisher Roie , Ronen Ohad
Published: May 2022

It is important to define the accuracy of fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the diagnosis of Warthin tumor (WT). This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluated the accuracy of FNAC in the diagnosis of WT in the parotid gland and WT growth rate. For determination of FNAC accuracy, 17 studies, encompassing 1710 cases, were included. Pulled random model estimates of sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 93.7% (95%CI: 92.1, 95.3), 97.9% (95%CI: 97, 98.9), 93.3% (95%CI: 91.5, 95.1), and 97.4% (95%CI: 96.4, 98.4), respectively. FNAC is highly reliable for the diagnosis of WT of the parotid. The high PPV value suggests that patients with a cytological diagnosis of WT of the parotid may be assigned to active surveillance.
Anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of Lactobacillus spp. as a preservative and therapeutic agent for IBD control
Authors: Aghamohammad Shadi , Sepehr Amin , Miri Seyedeh Tina , Najafi Saeideh , Pourshafie Mohammad R. , Rohani Mahdi
Published: May 2022

Background

Probiotics have a beneficial effect on inflammatory responses and immune regulation, via Janus kinase/signal transduction and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) and NF‐κB signaling pathways. To evaluate the precise effects of Lactobacillus spp. as a protective and therapeutic agent, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of Lactobacillus spp. in modulating JAK/STAT and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) inflammatory signaling pathways.

Methods

A quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was used to analyze the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes (TIR‑associated Protein [TIRAP], Interleukin 1 Receptor Associated Kinase[IRAK4], Nuclear factor‐kappa B Essential Modulator [NEMO], and receptor interacting protein [RIP]) followed by treatment of the HT‐29 cell line with sonicated pathogens before, after, and simultaneously with Lactobacillus spp. A cytokine assay was also used to evaluate interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐1β production after treatment with Lactobacillus spp.

Results

Lactobacillus spp. downregulated JAK and TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF‐κB pathway compared to sonicate‐treated cells. The expression of STAT genes was different after treatment with probiotics. The production of IL‐6 and IL‐1β decreased after probiotic treatment.

Conclusions

Our Lactobacillus spp. cocktail showed anti‐inflammatory effects on HT‐29 cells by modulating JAK/STAT and NF‐κB signaling pathways in all three treatment variants. Therefore, Lactobacillus spp. as a dietary supplement can both prevent and reduce inflammation‐related diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Advanced unconventional techniques for sub‐100 nm nanopatterning
Authors: Guo Mengmeng , Qu Zhiyuan , Min Fanyi , Li Zheng , Qiao Yali , Song Yanlin
Published: May 2022

Patterned nanostructures with ultrasmall features endow functional devices with unique nanoconfinement and performance enhancements. The increasing demand for miniaturization has stimulated the development of sub‐100 nm nanopatterning techniques. Beyond conventional lithography—which is limited by unavoidable factors—advanced patterning techniques have been reported to produce nanoscale features down to molecular or even atomic scale. In this review, unconventional techniques for sub‐100 nm nanopatterning are discussed, in particular the principles by which to achieve the desired patterns (among other important issues). Such techniques can be classified into three categories: template‐replica, template‐induced, and template‐free techniques. Moreover, multi‐dimensional nanostructures consist of various building materials, the unique properties of which are summarized. Finally, the remaining challenges and opportunities for large‐scale patterning, the improvement of device performance, the multi‐dimensional nanostructures of biocompatible materials, molecular‐scale patterning, and the carbon footprint requirements for future nanofabrication processes are discussed.

image
Anti‐money laundering and financial fraud detection: A systematic literature review
Authors: Goecks Lucas Schmidt , Korzenowski André Luis , Gonçalves Terra Neto Platão , de Souza Davenilcio Luiz , Mareth Taciana
Published: May 2022

Money laundering has affected the global economy for many years, and there are several methods of solving it presented in the literature. However, when tackling money laundering and financial fraud together there are few methods for solving them. Thus, this study aims to identify methods for anti‐money laundering (AML) and financial fraud detection (FFD). A systematic literature review was performed for analysis and research of the methods used, utilizing the SCOPUS and Web of Science databases. Of the 48 articles that aligned with the research theme, 20 used quantitative methods for AML and FFD solution, 13 were literature reviews, 7 used qualitative methods, and 8 used mixed methods. This study contributes by presenting a systematic literature review that fills two research gaps: lack of studies on AML and FFD, and the methods used to solve them. This will assist researchers in identifying gaps and related research.
A quick solvation energy estimator based on electronegativity equalization
Authors: Vyboishchikov Sergei F.
Published: May 2022

ESE‐EE (Easy Solvation Estimation with Electronegativity equalization) is a quick method for estimation of solvation‐free energies ΔGºsolv, which uses a thoroughly fitted electronegativity equalization (EE) scheme to obtain atomic charges, which are further employed in a scaled noniterative COSMO‐like calculation to evaluate the electrostatic component of ΔGºsolv. Nonelectrostatic corrections including adjustable parameters are also added. For neutral solutes, ESE‐EE yields a mean absolute error (MAE) in ΔGsolv° of 1.5 kcal/mol for aqueous solutions; 1.0 kcal/mol for nonaqueous polar protic solvents; 0.9 kcal/mol for polar aprotic solvents; and about 0.6 kcal/mol for nonpolar solvents. Since ESE‐EE only requires a molecular geometry as input for a ΔGºsolv prediction, it can be utilized for a rapid screening of ΔGºsolvfor large neutral molecules. However, for ionic solutes, ESE‐EE yields larger errors (typically several kcal/mol) and is recommendable for preliminary estimations only. Upon a special refitting, ESE‐EE is able to yield partition coefficients with a good accuracy.
Analysis of current status of quantitative detection of biomarkers for liver fibrosis in Clinical labs in China
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhang Chuanbao
Published: May 2022

Aim

To explore the quality control and implementation of the quantitative detection of liver fibrosis biomarkers, laminin (LN), collagen IV (Col Ⅳ), procollagen III amino‐terminal propeptide (PⅢNP), hyaluronic acid (HA), and cholyglycine (CG), in China.

Methods

Two quality control products were measured in different laboratories using different measurement methods and reagents, and the acquired results were subjected to analysis. The quantitative detection technique was based on the conventional assessment criteria, with a target value ±30% being employed.

Results

Hundred labs were involved in the External Quality Assessment with 88 laboratories completing the assessment, and the pass rates were 84%, 80.2%, 67.5%, 77.3%, and 58.3% for HA, LN, PⅢNP, Col Ⅳ, and CG, respectively. Chemiluminescence immunoassay was used most for HA (90.1%), LN (90.1%), PⅢNP (87.9%), and Col Ⅳ (82.9%) determination, whereas the chemiluminescence immunoassay (31.6%), latex‐enhanced immunoturbidimetry (36.7%), and homogeneous enzyme immunoassay (26.7%) were used for CG determination. The coefficients of variation for HA, LN, PⅢNP, Col Ⅳ, and CG in different laboratories were 3.3%–19.49%, 1.74%–38.81%, 1.97%–41.29%, 2.85%–41.69%, and 2.71%–41.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

The clinical quantitative detection of liver fibrosis biomarkers is highly performed in China. The existing problems are that there are many manufacturers producing reagents and instruments, the quality of reagents is uneven, the specificity and sensitivity of reagents are greatly different, the comparability of results of various systems is poor, and the accuracy and consistency between different systems are lacking. All above underscores the critical importance of EQA in improving and monitoring the identification of biomarkers for liver fibrosis.
LncRNA PITPNA‐AS1/miR‐223‐3p/PTN axis regulates malignant progression and stemness in lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Peng Bi‐hao , Ji Yu‐fei , Qiu Xiao‐jian
Published: May 2022

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a kind of molecule that cannot code proteins, and their expression is dysregulated in diversified cancers. LncRNA PITPNA‐AS1 has been shown to act as a tumor promoter in a variety of malignancies, but its function and regulatory mechanisms in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) are yet unknown.

Methods

The mRNA and protein expression of genes were examined by RT‐qPCR, western blot, and IHC assay. The cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and stemness were detected through CCK‐8, colony formation, Transwell and spheroid formation assays. The CD44+ and CD166+‐positive cells were detected through flow cytometry. The binding ability among genes through luciferase reporter and RNA pull‐down assays. The tumor growth was detected through in vivo nude mice assay.

Results

The lncRNA PITPNA‐AS1 had increased expression in LUSC and was linked to a poor prognosis. In LUSC, PITPNA‐AS1 also enhanced cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and stemness. This mechanistic investigation showed that PITPNA‐AS1 absorbed miR‐223‐3p and that miR‐223‐3p targeted PTN. MiR‐223‐3p inhibition or PTN overexpression might reverse the inhibitory effects of PITPNA‐AS1 suppression on LUSC progression, as demonstrated by rescue experiments. In addition, the PITPNA‐AS1/miR‐223‐3p/PTN axis accelerated tumor development in vivo.

Conclusions

It is the first time we investigated the potential role and ceRNA regulatory mechanism of PITPNA‐AS1 in LUSC. The data disclosed that PITPNA‐AS1 upregulated PTN through sponging miR‐223‐3p to enhance the onset and progression of LUSC. These findings suggested the ceRNA axis may serve as a promising therapeutic biomarker for LUSC patients.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring During Tuberculosis Treatment
Authors: Anderson Ginger , Vinnard Christopher
Published: May 2022

Patients with tuberculosis (TB) coinfected with HIV are more likely to have low blood concentrations of the first‐line anti‐TB drugs (associated with poor outcomes). Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is recommended for certain patient populations with TB at increased risk for a poor outcome. Our objective was to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of a 2‐hour TDM serum sample for the first‐line anti‐TB drugs among patients with HIV/TB and evaluate the information gained by an additional 6‐hour sample. We created a virtual (n = 1000) HIV/TB patient population and performed pharmacokinetic simulations using published population models for isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. We performed receiver operating characteristic analysis to compare the diagnostic performance of a single 2‐hour serum sample with samples obtained at 2 and 6 hours after dosing. The sensitivity of a single 2‐hour serum concentration to identify patients with HIV/TB with adequate serum exposures was lowest for rifampin (54.9%; 95%CI, 50.79%‐59.41%) and highest for ethambutol (70.8%; 95%CI, 66.06%‐72.61%) for maximum concentration (Cmax) targets. Diagnostic accuracy of a single 2‐hour serum sample for the area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) from time 0 to 24 hours target was highest for isoniazid (93%; 95%CI, 90.9%‐94.1%) and lowest for pyrazinamide (66.3%; 95%CI, 62.6%‐70.0%). In summary, the diagnostic performance of TDM for Cmax and AUC from time 0 to 24 hours targets demonstrated variability across the first‐line anti‐TB drugs. The addition of a 6‐hour serum sample led to the highest statistically significant improvement (P < .001) and highest increase in diagnostic accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve) for rifampin for Cmax and AUC. The other first‐line drugs had modest/negligible increases in diagnostic accuracy.
Oral health‐related quality of life and psychological states of dental students with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Bal Burcu , Sarak Gözde , Oral Koray
Published: May 2022

Purpose/objectives

This study investigates the frequency of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in dental students, and evaluates the association between TMDs, psychological states, and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL). The presence of bruxism was also determined.

Methods

Two hundred ninety‐three dental students completed the Symptom Checklist 90‐Revised (SCL‐90‐R) and Oral Health Impact Profile 14 (OHIP‐14) questionnaires and underwent a clinical examination according to Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs.

Results

TMDs were detected in 46.4% of the dental students. OHIP‐14 scores of students with TMDs were significantly higher than scores for students without TMDs (p < 0.05). Significant differences were observed in all SCL‐90‐R scores among students with and without TMDs, except for phobic anxiety and additional SCL‐90‐R subscale scores (p < 0.05). The prevalence of myalgia was significantly higher in clinical students (26.6%) than in preclinical students (15.6%). OHIP‐14 scores of clinical students were significantly higher than preclinical students (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In dental students, there was a high frequency of TMDs and bruxism. OHRQoL was poorer in clinical students. Levels of anxiety, depression, and somatization were not different in clinical and preclinical students. SCL‐90‐R scores are higher in students with TMDs except for phobic anxiety and additional SCL‐90‐R subscale scores.
Engineered Cas9 extracellular vesicles as a novel gene editing tool
Authors: Osteikoetxea Xabier , Silva Andreia , Lázaro‐Ibáñez Elisa , Salmond Nikki , Shatnyeva Olga , Stein Josia , Schick Jan , Wren Stephen , Lindgren Julia , Firth Mike , Madsen Alexandra , Mayr Lorenz M. , Overman Ross , Davies Rick , Dekker Niek
Published: May 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have shown promise as biological delivery vehicles, but therapeutic applications require efficient cargo loading. Here, we developed new methods for CRISPR/Cas9 loading into EVs through reversible heterodimerization of Cas9‐fusions with EV sorting partners. Cas9‐loaded EVs were collected from engineered Expi293F cells using standard methodology, characterized using nanoparticle tracking analysis, western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy and analysed for CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated functional gene editing in a Cre‐reporter cellular assay. Light‐induced dimerization using Cryptochrome 2 combined with CD9 or a Myristoylation‐Palmitoylation‐Palmitoylation lipid modification resulted in efficient loading with approximately 25 Cas9 molecules per EV and high functional delivery with 51% gene editing of the Cre reporter cassette in HEK293 and 25% in HepG2 cells, respectively. This approach was also effective for targeting knock‐down of the therapeutically relevant PCSK9 gene with 6% indel efficiency in HEK293. Cas9 transfer was detergent‐sensitive and associated with the EV fractions after size exclusion chromatography, indicative of EV‐mediated transfer. Considering the advantages of EVs over other delivery vectors we envision that this study will prove useful for a range of therapeutic applications, including CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome editing.
Are all auditory sensilla of bushcrickets bimodal? Comment on: R. D. Zhantiev and O. S. Korsunovskaya, Functions of chordotonal sensilla in bushcrickets (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae); Entomological Review, 2021, vol. 101 (6), pp. 755–766
Authors: Stritih‐Peljhan Nataša , Strauß Johannes , Stumpner Andreas
Published: May 2022

Detection of sound and substrate vibration is crucial for the survival and reproduction of many animals, particularly insects. Bushcrickets (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae), developed a large mechanosensory organ complex in their legs to detect such stimuli. As demonstrated by various studies in the past, sensilla in distinct functional groups form specialized vibratory organs (the subgenual organ and the accessory organ), respond sensitively to both vibration and sound (in the intermediate organ [IO]), or mediate hearing (in the crista acustica [CA]; the tympanal hearing organ). In their recent publication, Zhantiev and Korsunovskaya addressed auditory and vibratory sensitivity in the IO and the CA in two species of bushcrickets, using single‐cell recording and staining of sensory neurons from their soma in an isolated foreleg. Their main finding was that not only the IO but also the complete CA contains bimodal sensilla responding with high sensitivity to both sound and vibration, which would be a true change in the paradigm of how the auditory/vibratory sense in Orthoptera works. In addition, they revealed vibratory tuning of the IO sensilla, which differs largely from that in previous studies. We propose three major experimental causes of such discrepancies: calibration, experiments with isolated legs, and differences in the sites of recording. To judge the causes of these discrepancies more adequately, a detailed comparison of methods and a number of control experiments are needed. This will deepen our understanding of sensory adaptations and specialization of insect mechanosensory organs to stimuli entering the system by different input pathways.
HIV-1-induced type I IFNs promote viral latency in macrophages
Authors: Dickey Laura L , Martins Laura J , Planelles Vicente , Hanley Timothy M
Published: May 2022

Macrophages chronically infected with HIV-1 serve as a reservoir that contributes to HIV-1 persistence during antiretroviral therapy; however, the mechanisms governing the establishment and maintenance of this virus reservoir have not been fully elucidated. Here, we show that HIV-1 enters a state reminiscent of latency in monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs), characterized by integrated proviral DNA with decreased viral transcription. This quiescent state is associated with decreased NF-κB p65, RNA polymerase II, and p-TEFb recruitment to the HIV-1 promoter as well as maintenance of promoter chromatin in a transcriptionally nonpermissive state. MDM transition to viral latency is mediated by type I IFN signaling, as inhibiting type I IFN signaling or blocking type 1 IFN prevents the establishment of latent infection. Knockdown studies demonstrate that the innate immune signaling molecule mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) is required for the transition to latency. Finally, we demonstrate a role for the viral accessory protein Vpr in the establishment of HIV-1 latency in macrophages. Our data indicate that HIV-1-induced type I IFN production is responsible for the establishment of viral latency in MDMs and identify possible therapeutic targets for the prevention or elimination of this important HIV-1 reservoir.
Two successful pregnancies and first use of empagliflozin during pregnancy in glycogen storage disease type Ib
Authors: Grünert Sarah Catharina , Rosenbaum‐Fabian Stefanie , Schumann Anke , Selbitz Anne‐Christine , Merz Waltraut , Gieselmann Andrea , Spiekerkoetter Ute
Published: May 2022

Glycogen storage disease type Ib (GSD Ib) is caused by biallelic variants in SLC37A4. GSD Ib is characterized by hepatomegaly, recurrent hypoglycemia, neutropenia, and neutrophil dysfunction. Only seven pregnancies in four women with GSD Ib have been reported so far. We report on two further successful pregnancies in two patients with GSD Ib. One of these pregnancies was managed with empagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, repurposed for the treatment of neutropenia in GSD Ib. Both pregnancies were unremarkable and resulted in healthy offspring. Gestational care and pre‐ and perinatal management in GSD Ib are challenging and require close interdisciplinary metabolic and obstetric monitoring. In our patient, the use of empagliflozin during pregnancy was successful in the prevention of neutropenic symptoms and infections and enabled good wound healing after Cesarean section, while no adverse effects were observed.
Neutralizing activity to SARS‐CoV‐2 in 1.2 to 10.0 month convalescent plasma samples of COVID‐19: A transversal surrogate in vitro study performed in Quito‐Ecuador
Authors: Villacrés‐Granda Boris , Paz Elius , Burbano María José , Villacrés‐Granda Irina , Armijos Daniela , Aguirre Mauricio
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection, was first reported in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Diagnostic methods for the detection of the virus and seroconversion of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) in plasma have been developed specifically, but some of them require a BSL3 facility. In this study, we used the SARS‐CoV‐2 Surrogate Virus Neutralization Test Kit to determine the presence or absence of NAbs anti‐receptor binding domain of the viral spike (S) glycoprotein in a BSL2 facility. The sample population was chosen in Quito, Ecuador, with a total of 88 COVID‐19 positive convalescent patients. We determined that 97.7% of the analyzed convalescent sera maintained the presence of NAbs with neutralizing activity, and this activity remained until 10 months after the infection in some cases. In addition, the relationship between the presence of NAbs and immunoglobulin G was significant compared to immunoglobulin M, which tended to be absent over time.
Clinical manifestations of COVID‐19 breakthrough infections: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lee Christine J. , Woo Wongi , Kim Ah Young , Yon Dong Keon , Lee Seung Won , Koyanagi Ai , Kim Min Seo , Tizaoui Kalthoum , Dragioti Elena , Radua Joaquim , Lee Sungsoo , Smith Lee , Il Shin Jae
Published: May 2022

To provide a comparative meta‐analysis and systematic review of the risk and clinical outcomes of coronavirus 2019 (COVID‐19) infection between fully vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. Eighteen studies of COVID‐19 infections in fully vaccinated (“breakthrough infections”) and unvaccinated individuals were reviewed from Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases. The meta‐analysis examined the summary effects and between‐study heterogeneity regarding differences in the risk of infection, hospitalization, treatments, and mortality between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. he overall risk of infection was lower for the fully vaccinated compared to that of the unvaccinated (relative risk [RR] 0.20, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.19−0.21), especially for variants other than Delta (Delta: RR 0.29, 95% CI: 0.13−0.65; other variants: RR 0.06, 95% CI: 0.04−0.08). The risk of asymptomatic infection was not statistically significantly different between fully vaccinated and unvaccinated (RR 0.56, 95% CI: 0.27−1.19). There were neither statistically significant differences in risk of hospitalization (RR 1.06, 95% CI: 0.38−2.93), invasive mechanical ventilation (RR 1.65, 95% CI: 0.90−3.06), or mortality (RR 1.19, 95% CI: 0.79−1.78). Conversely, the risk of supplemental oxygen during hospitalization was significantly higher for the unvaccinated (RR 1.40, 95% CI: 1.08−1.82). Unvaccinated people were more vulnerable to COVID‐19 infection than fully vaccinated for all variants. Once infected, there were no statistically significant differences in the risk of hospitalization, invasive mechanical ventilation, or mortality. Still, unvaccinated showed an increased need for oxygen supplementation. Further prospective analysis, including patients’ risk factors, COVID‐19 variants, and the utilized treatment strategies, would be warranted.
Impact of atrial fibrillation ablation on long‐term outcomes in patients with tachycardia‐bradycardia syndrome
Authors: Kataoka Shohei , Ejima Koichiro , Yazaki Kyoichiro , Kanai Miwa , Yagishita Daigo , Shoda Morio , Hagiwara Nobuhisa
Published: May 2022

Background

Reports of long‐term outcomes after atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation for tachycardia‐bradycardia syndrome (TBS) are limited. This study aimed to investigate the impact of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) on clinical outcomes in patients with TBS.

Methods

Among 1669 patients who underwent AF ablation between January 2010 and April 2020, we retrospectively enrolled 53 patients (62.3% males; age, 67.1 ± 7.0 years) who had been diagnosed with TBS before RFCA for paroxysmal AF (TBS group). After 1:2 propensity score‐matching based on age, gender, AF type, and left atrial dimension, 106 patients were assigned to the control group (non‐TBS group). The atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA) recurrence rate and rate of avoidance of permanent pacemaker implantation (PMI) were examined.

Results

During a median follow‐up period of 37.7 months, the ATA recurrence rate after a single ablation procedure was significantly higher in the TBS group than in the non‐TBS group (51.0% vs. 38.5%; log‐rank p = .008); however, the ATA recurrence rate after the final ablation procedure did not significantly differ between groups. In the TBS group, the rate of PMI avoidance after AF ablation was 92.5%. A Cox‐regression multivariate analysis revealed that the presence of non‐pulmonary vein/superior vena cava premature atrial contractions (odds ratio, 3.38; 95% confidence interval, 1.49–7.66; p = .004) was an independent predictor of ATA recurrence in the TBS group.

Conclusions

Patients with TBS had higher ATA recurrence rates after the first ablation procedure compared to those without TBS. However, ATA recurrence after AF ablation did not necessarily result in PMI for TBS patients.
Representation of the wintertime Arctic Oscillation in a multi‐model ensemble
Authors: Kim Gayoung , Ahn Joong‐Bae
Published: May 2022

The Arctic Oscillation (AO) is a well‐known mode that affects climate variability in the Northern Hemisphere. The equal‐weighed multi‐model ensemble (MME) of six state‐of‐the‐art models from the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) and Pusan National University (PNU) was analysed to understand the wintertime AO performance for the hindcast period December–February 1993/1994–2016/2017. The hindcasts were chosen with lead times of 1 and 4 months with respect to the initialization date (August and November, respectively). The spread of the AO prediction skills of the individual models was significant. In general, the MME demonstrates superior skill compared to the average of single‐model skills in representing the AO pattern at lead times of 1 and 4 months. The AO‐related vertical structure predicted by MME is similar to the observation, but the upper‐level structure is relatively poor compared to the structure of the hindcasted lower‐ or mid‐level atmosphere. Both observation and MME indicate that since the mid‐1990s, the relationship between the AO and East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) has been weak compared to the connection between the AO and El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Simultaneously, the North Pacific centre of the AO moved eastward during the observational period. The MME showed an AO pattern similar to that observed. The eastward shift of the North Pacific centre of the AO may contribute to deepening the Aleutian low and its effect on the tight AO–ENSO relation demonstrated in observations and MME. Strong AO–ENSO relations and weak AO–EAWM connections are found in both observations and MME model. The observation and MME represent the wave activity flux from 60°N to the equator in the troposphere; consequently, the wave activity flux may contribute to the AO and ENSO connection in both observation and MME.
Stable O/W emulsions and oleogels with amphiphilic konjac glucomannan network: preparation, characterization, and application
Authors: Bu Nitong , Huang Liying , Cao Guoyu , Pang Jie , Mu Ruojun
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

The stabilization of oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions has long been explored. Assembly of polymer networks is an effective method for stabilizing O/W emulsions. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) is a plant polysaccharide and the network of KGM gel is a good candidate for stabilizing O/W emulsions based on its high viscosity and thickening properties. However, natural KGM has strong hydrophilicity and is not able to offer interfacial activity. Octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) is a hydrophobic molecule, which is widely used as thickener and stabilizer in food emulsions. In this work, the amphiphilic biopolymer (OSA‐KGM) was fabricated by modifying the KGM with OSA. Furthermore, OSA‐KGM biopolymer was used to prepare O/W emulsions, which were then freeze‐dried and used to prepare oleogels as fat substitute for bakery products.

RESULTS

OSA‐KGM had advanced hydrophobicity with water contact angle 81.13° and adsorption behavior at the oil–water interface, with interfacial tension decreasing from 18.52 to 13.57 mN m−1 within 1 h. The emulsification of OSA‐KGM remarkably improved the stability of emulsions without phase separation during storage for 31 days. Oleogels with OSA‐KGM showed good thixotropic and structure recovery properties (approximately 100%) and low oil loss (from 69.5% to 50.4%). Cakes made from oleogels had a softer texture than cakes made from peanut oil and margarine.

CONCLUSION

Amphiphilic biopolymer OSA‐KGM shows advanced interfacial activity and hydrophobicity. This paper provides an insight into preparing stable O/W emulsions with a new biopolymer and oleogels potentially applied as fat substitute in bakery products. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Circular Displacement Current Induced Anomalous Magneto‐Optical Effects in High Index Mie Resonators
Authors: Xia Shuang , Ignatyeva Daria O. , Liu Qing , Wang Hanbin , Yang Weihao , Qin Jun , Chen Yiqin , Duan Huigao , Luo Yi , Novák Ondřej , Veis Martin , Deng Longjiang , Belotelov Vladimir I. , Bi Lei
Published: May 2022

Dielectric Mie nanoresonators showing strong light–matter interaction at the nanoscale may enable new functionality in photonic devices, such as strong magneto‐optical effects. However, most reports so far have been focused on the enhancement of conventional magneto‐optical effects. Here, anomalous magneto‐optical effects are observed in high‐index‐contrast Si/Ce:YIG/YIG/SiO2 Mie resonators. In particular, giant modulation of light intensity in transverse magnetic configuration up to 6.4% under s‐polarized incidence appears, which is non‐existent in planar magneto‐optical thin films. A large rotation of transmitted light polarization in longitudinal magnetic configuration is also observed, which is two orders of magnitude higher than for planar magneto‐optical thin films. These phenomena are originated from the unique circular displacement current when exciting magnetic resonances in the Mie resonators, which change the electric field direction locally. This work indicates an uncharted territory of light polarization control based on complex modal profiles in all‐dielectric magneto‐optical Mie resonators and metasurfaces.
Impact of major hepatocellular carcinoma policy changes on liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma in the United States
Authors: Shah Rahil H. , Chyou Darius , Goldberg David S.
Published: May 2022

Since its inception in 2002, Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD)–based allocation has undergone a series of revisions, especially with respect to exception points. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common indication for MELD exceptions, and as a result of higher transplant proportions and lower waitlist mortality, a series of policy changes have been implemented to deprioritize HCC transplants. We examined the impact of HCC exception policy changes on transplant and waitlist mortality rates. We evaluated Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network/United Network for Organ Sharing data on adult patients from January 1, 2005, to June 4, 2021, focusing on waitlist mortality and deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT) proportions. The data were divided into four policy eras: (1) MELD 22 points at waitlisting with an increase in points every 3 months (i.e., elevator) (January 2005–October 2015), (2) delay and cap at MELD 34 points (October 2015–May 2019), (3) delay and fixed exceptions based on donor service area (DSA) median MELD at transplantation minus three (MMaT‐3; May 2019–February 2020), and (4) delay and fixed exceptions based on the MMaT‐3 of centers within 250 nautical miles (i.e., acuity circles; February 2020–June 2021). We evaluated (a) changes in the proportions of DDLTs for patients with HCC exceptions within each era nationally and by DSA and (b) waitlist mortality in the three recent policy eras, focusing on mortality in the 6 months after the 6‐month delay period. The percentage of adult DDLT with HCC exceptions decreased through the four eras: 22.9% (n = 14,049), 17.9% (n = 4598), 14.3% (n = 851), and 12.4% (n = 1425), respectively. Of the 51 DSAs analyzed, the annual percent change in DDLTs for patients with HCC exceptions was negative (i.e., decreased) in 47 (92.2%). Waitlist mortality remained stable. All HCC policy implementations led to a decrease in the percentage of transplants for HCC without an increase in waitlist mortality. The impact is not uniform across geographic areas.
Design and optimization of thin‐film tungsten (W)‐diamond target for multi‐pixel X‐ray sources
Authors: Tan Yuewen , Chen Qinghao , Zhou Shuang , Henriksen Erik A. , Zhang Tiezhi
Published: May 2022

Background

Emerging multi‐pixel X‐ray source technology enables new designs for X‐ray imaging systems. The power of multi‐pixel X‐ray sources with a fixed anode is limited by focal spot power density.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to optimize the W‐diamond target and predict its performance in multi‐pixel X‐ray sources.

Methods

X‐ray intensity and energy deposition in the W‐diamond target with different thicknesses of tungsten film and incident electron energies was calculated with the Geant4 Monte Carlo toolkit. COMSOL Multiphysics software was used to analyze the transient and stationary heat transfer in the thin‐film W‐diamond target. The maximum tube power and X‐ray output intensity were predicted for both transmission and reflection target configurations.

Results

The maximum focal spot power density was limited by either the graphitization of the diamond substrate or the melting point of the W target. With optimal W‐target thickness, the maximum transmission X‐ray intensities are about 40%–50% higher than the maximum reflection intensities. Thin‐film W‐diamond targets allow four to five times more maximum power input and produce six to seven times higher transmission X‐ray intensity in continuous mode compared with conventional reflection W thick targets. Depending on the focal spot size, reducing the X‐ray pulse duration can further enhance the tube power.

Conclusions

Multi‐pixel X‐ray sources using this W‐diamond target design can produce significantly higher X‐ray output than traditional thick tungsten targets without major modification of the tube design.
A secondary analysis of PAIN‐CONTRoLS: Pain's impact on sleep, fatigue, and activities of daily living
Authors: Bhai Salman F. , Brown Alexandra , Gajewski Byron , Kimminau Kim S. , Waitman Lemuel R. , Pasnoor Mamatha , Barohn Richard J. ,   the PAIN‐CONTRoLS Study Team
Published: May 2022

Introduction/Aims

Peripheral neuropathies commonly affect quality of life of patients due to pain, sleep disturbances, and fatigue, although trials have not adequately explored these domains of care. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of nortriptyline, duloxetine, pregabalin, and mexiletine on pain, sleep, and fatigue in patients diagnosed with cryptogenic sensory polyneuropathy (CSPN).

Methods

We implemented a Bayesian adaptive design to perform a 12‐wk multisite, randomized, prospective, open‐label comparative effectiveness study in 402 CSPN patients. Participants received either nortriptyline (n = 134), duloxetine (n = 126), pregabalin (n = 73), or mexiletine (n = 69). At prespecified analysis timepoints, secondary outcomes, Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) surveys including Short Form (SF)‐12, pain interference, fatigue, and sleep disturbance, were collected.

Results

Mexiletine had the highest quit rate (58%) due to gastrointestinal side effects, while nortriptyline (38%) and duloxetine (38%) had the lowest quit rates. If tolerated for the full 12 wk of the study, mexiletine had the highest probability (>90%) of positive outcomes for improvements in pain interference and fatigue. There was no significant difference among the medications for sleep disturbance or SF‐12 scores. Adverse events and lack of efficacy were the two most common reasons for cessation of therapy.

Discussion

Physicians caring for patients with CSPN should consider mexiletine to address pain and fatigue, although nortriptyline and duloxetine are better medications to trial first since they are better tolerated. Future research should compare other commonly used medications for CSPN to determine evidence‐based treatment strategies.
Transient dynamics of the thermally induced deformation of sands
Authors: Coulibaly Jibril B. , Rotta Loria Alessandro F.
Published: May 2022

Currently, inconclusive evidence characterizes the thermally induced deformation of sands. In this context, the role of the transient nature of heat diffusion on the thermally induced deformation of sands has remained largely disregarded. This paper presents a theoretical and computational investigation of the transient dynamics characterizing the thermally induced deformation of sands under oedometric conditions. The study shows that heating rates determined by the pore fluid pressure dissipation timescale to ensure drained conditions can cause an important temperature nonuniformity and a breakdown of quasi‐static conditions. Under these dynamic conditions, the differential expansion between the sand and the confining oedometer ring uniquely characterizes the response and is broken down into two characteristic regimes. For slow heating rates and low‐expansion ring materials, a mathematical analysis shows that expansion and only expansion can occur, regardless of relative density and stress level. For fast heating rates and high‐expansion ring materials, a parametric analysis establishes the possibility of a very small initial volumetric contraction for loose materials under high stress levels. In the light of the existing literature, the study shows that the intrinsic volumetric response to heating loads of sand, as a material, is only expansive; volumetric contraction may only be observed under transient conditions. This work supports a conceptual shift in the framework of analysis of thermally induced deformation of sands, from a temperature‐dependent material response to a rate‐dependent response of a finite volume under nonuniform conditions.
A supervised deep neural network approach with standardized targets for enhanced accuracy of IVIM parameter estimation from multi‐SNR images
Authors: Mastropietro Alfonso , Procissi Daniel , Scalco Elisa , Rizzo Giovanna , Bertolino Nicola
Published: May 2022

Extraction of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) parameters from noisy diffusion‐weighted (DW) images using a biexponential fitting model is computationally challenging, and the reliability of the estimated perfusion‐related quantities represents a limitation of this technique. Artificial intelligence can overcome the current limitations and be a suitable solution to advance use of this technique in both preclinical and clinical settings. The purpose of this work was to develop a deep neural network (DNN) approach, trained on numerical simulated phantoms with different signal to noise ratios (SNRs), to improve IVIM parameter estimation. The proposed approach is based on a supervised fully connected DNN having 3 hidden layers, 18 inputs and 3 targets with standardized values. 14 × 103 simulated DW images, based on a Shepp–Logan phantom, were randomly generated with varying SNRs (ranging from 10 to 100). 7 × 103 images (1000 for each SNR) were used for training. Performance accuracy was assessed in simulated images and the proposed approach was compared with the state‐of‐the‐art Bayesian approach and other DNN algorithms. The DNN approach was also evaluated in vivo on a high‐field MRI preclinical scanner. Our DNN approach showed an overall improvement in accuracy when compared with the Bayesian approach and other DNN methods in most of the simulated conditions. The in vivo results demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed approach in real settings and generated quantitative results comparable to those obtained using the Bayesian and unsupervised approaches, especially for D and f, and with lower variability in homogeneous regions. The DNN architecture proposed in this work outlines two innovative features as compared with other studies: (1) the use of standardized targets to improve the estimation of parameters, and (2) the implementation of a single DNN to enhance the IVIM fitting at different SNRs, providing a valuable alternative tool to compute IVIM parameters in conditions of high background noise.
Mechanical, surface morphological, and thermal properties of Musa acuminate peduncles fiber reinforced polyester composites: Fiber loading and alkalization impact
Authors: Durai Praveen Nagarajan , Viswalingam Kathir , Devi M. Renuka
Published: May 2022

The current study focuses on treated and untreated Musa acuminate peduncles fiber (MAPFs) reinforced polyester composites for lightweight application. For the first time, the impact of alkali treatment and fiber weight fraction on the mechanical, thermal, and morphological characteristics of MAPFs bonded polyester composites have been examined. The fiber from 0 to 25 wt% (alkali‐treated and raw) was reinforced with polyester matrix in compression/hand lay method. At 20 wt% of fiber, significant improvements in tensile strength (40.97 MPa), tensile modulus (1.18 GPa), impact (72.68 J/m), flexural strength (63.54 MPa) and flexural modulus (2.16 GPa) were recorded, whereas beyond reduces the properties. Following tensile testing, the fractured cross‐sections of the composite were investigated using scanning electron microscope, which demonstrated that the alkali‐treated MAPFs reinforced polyester composite had fewer voids and better fiber bonding. Thermogravimetric and atomic force microscopy analysis show that alkali‐treated MAPFs are a viable reinforcement for polyester matrix due to higher degradation temperature and surface roughness observations.