bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Vision Function and Cognitive Dysfunction in Older Adults through Questionnaire Surveys
Authors: Rashik Mohammad , Mozdbar Sima , Aryal Subhash , Johnson Leigh Ann , O'Bryant Sid
Published: December 2021

Background

Visual impairment in older adults has been associated with increased risk and severity of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) [Cronin‐Golomb, 1995]. There is a great need to understand the relationship between these two disease processes in an effort to improve coordinated care for these patients. The purpose of the study is to determine the relationship between cognitive dysfunction and self‐reported visual function using the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI‐VFQ) and Mini‐Mental Status Exam (MMSE).

Methods

Subjects for this investigation were enrolled from the Alzheimer’s Disease in Primary Care (ADPC) study, in which each participant undergoes a medical exam, interview, neuropsychological testing, 3T MRI of the brain and PET amyloid scans. This study recruited 131 participants from the ADPC cohort to complete the NEI VFQ‐25. The 25‐item questionnaire consists of 12 subscales that measure the impact of ocular disease on several domains of health. To examine the relationship between cognition and self‐reported visual function, we correlated mini‐mental state exam (MMSE) scores with NEI‐VFQ overall composite scores.

Results

We observed a significant association between overall NEI‐VFQ composite score and MMSE score (p = 0.0359). On average, for every 1‐point increase in MMSE total score, the overall composite score increases by 0.3992 units.

Conclusions

The consideration of visual function and quality of life is an important component during the ophthalmic and neuropsychological evaluation of a patient with cognitive dysfunction. Vision tests, such as visual acuity, are not a comprehensive representation of visual impairment experienced by individuals [Cullinan, 1978, Genensky, 1976], and do not account for the influence of visual disability on health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) such as emotional well‐being or social function [Mangione, 2001]. The use of the NEI‐VFQ in a primary care setting could help identify patients with reduced self‐reported visual function, which could simultaneously identify those at increased risk for cognitive dysfunction.
Could cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light chain reduce misdiagnosis in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders in a real‐world setting? A retrospective clinical and diagnostic utility study
Authors: Kang Matthew , Dobson Hannah , Li Qiao‐Xin , Keem Michael , Loi Samantha M , Masters Colin L , Collins Steven , Velakoulis Dennis , Eratne Dhamidhu
Published: December 2021

Background

Patients presenting with neuropsychiatric symptoms often face significant diagnostic odyssey. Our recent research (Eratne et al, ANZJP, 2020) found neurofilament light (NfL) differentiated between neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, with high accuracy. Yet the clinical utility of NfL, as to whether it can aid clinicians in avoiding misdiagnosis in a real‐world clinical setting, is unknown. Our primary aim was to measure the rates of diagnostic change in patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms assessed at a tertiary multidisciplinary service, and determine whether baseline cerebrospinal (CSF) NfL level could have prevented misdiagnoses, by predicting the final diagnosis after follow up.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective file review of patients assessed at an Australian neuropsychiatry and young‐onset dementia service between 2009‐2020. NfL levels were measured from CSF collected at their baseline assessment. Blinded investigators (MK, HD, DE) extracted clinical data including diagnoses from discharge summaries and outpatient letters from the initial assessment and re‐assessment. Baseline and final diagnoses were categorised as neurodegenerative disorder [ND], or, other non‐neurodegenerative conditions including primary psychiatric disorder [Other/PPD]. We also obtained follow‐up information on patients that were subsequently seen at external services where available.

Results

From a preliminary analysis of those with follow‐up information for at least a year (N=32), six patients’ diagnostic categories (19%) were revised (ND to Other/PPD=5; Other/PPD to ND=1). In all six cases (figure 2), baseline CSF NfL levels, using our previously established cut‐off, would have predicted the final revised diagnosis.

As this study is underway, findings for over 200 patients will be presented for the Conference.

Conclusions

In a real‐world tertiary clinical setting, baseline CSF NfL would have accurately predicted diagnostic change, showing promise to aid clinicians assessing patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms, and reduce misdiagnosis. An elevated level could help exclude primary psychiatric provisional or differential diagnoses, and prompt assertive investigations for neurological and neurodegenerative causes. Conversely, a low NfL, could reassure against a neurodegenerative disorder, preventing unnecessary assessments. Timely and accurate diagnosis will reduce uncertainty, enable early care planning, reduce patient and carer burden, thus improving outcomes and the diagnostic odyssey faced by patients and families.
CAA and related co‐morbidities in Down syndrome and Alzheimer disease
Authors: Kumar Amisha , Doran Eric , Martini Alessandra Cadete , Head Elizabeth , Kirby Kate
Published: December 2021

Background

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a form of cerebrovascular pathology characterized by the deposition of beta‐amyloid in the leptomeningeal and cortical blood vessels of the brain. CAA is a critical factor contributing to dementia in sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Many individuals with Down syndrome (DS) develop CAA due to the overexpression of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) gene and the subsequent increase of beta‐amyloid in the brain. However, little is known about the role of co‐morbidities like seizures in the presence and severity of CAA, or the effect that CAA has on the course of AD in individuals with DS.

Method

Clinical and neuropathology data for 48 individuals were included in the study. The clinical data, including the presence or absence of seizures and APOE genotype, was collected prospectively as part of a longitudinal research protocol for AD in DS at UCI as well as through a retrospective chart review of the medical records of patients at the AD in DS Memory Care Clinic at UCI. The neuropathology data, including the presence and severity of CAA, was recorded using the guidelines of the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Committee (NACC).

Result

A greater percentage of individuals with seizures have CAA as compared to those who did not have seizures, although the presence of seizures does not appear to impact the severity of CAA. Regarding those individuals with the APOE e4 allele, the majority of these individuals experienced moderate or severe CAA, with relatively few individuals with mild CAA or none. The duration of AD course appeared to decrease as CAA severity increased, but the results were not conclusive.

Conclusion

Overall, we did not find a significant correlation between seizures and the presence or absence of CAA, or between the severity of CAA and the duration of AD course. Some limitations to our study included a limited number of individuals without CAA or seizures compared to those who presented these conditions. Continuing studies will reinforce the role of CAA in the development of AD and contribute to our understanding of the role of clinical co‐morbidities in AD progression.
Targeted Atp1a2 knockdown by antisense oligonucleotides leads to reduced SOD1 aggregation and accelerated disease progression in the SOD1*G93A mouse model of ALS
Authors: Iyer Abhirami Kannan , Schoch Kathleen M. , Oldenborg Anna , Chen Hao , Smith Sarah E , Miller Timothy M , Karch Celeste M. , Bonni Azad
Published: December 2021

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor neuron disease affecting the cortex, brainstem and spinal cord. In familial and sporadic ALS, the levels of a complex of α2‐Na+/K+‐ATPase (encoded by the Atp1a2 gene) and α‐adducin are increased in the spinal cord. In the SOD1*G93A mouse model of ALS, upregulation of this complex is specifically observed in astrocytes and Atp1a2+/‐
SOD1*G93A mice show increased mobility and lifespan than Atp1a2+/+
littermate controls. Further, RNAi‐mediated knockdown of Atp1a2 in SOD1*G93A primary mouse astrocytes prevents cell death and dendrite degeneration in co‐cultured motor neurons. These findings suggest that Atp1a2 might represent a therapeutic target in ALS. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) have emerged as a safe and effective method to modify gene expression in animal models and in the clinic.

Method

Here we characterize the suitability of Atp1a2 knockdown using ASOs as a means to attenuate astrocyte‐mediated neurotoxicity in SOD1*G93A mice. Two lead ASOs targeting the 3’‐UTR of Atp1a2 and reducing Atp1a2 expression by 50‐70% were identified. These two ASOs were then tested in vivo to determine their impact on disease progression and survival in SOD1*G93A mice.

Result

Atp1a2 ASOs led to efficient Atp1a2 knockdown and significantly reduced SOD1 aggregation in vivo. However, Atp1a2 ASO‐treated mice exhibited significantly earlier disease onset and shorter lifespan than animals receiving control ASOs.

Conclusion

Together, these results demonstrate a decoupling of SOD1 aggregation and disease course, thereby, suggesting that reducing Atp1a2 expression in adulthood may not have the same beneficial effects of gene knockout at birth in SOD1*G93A mice. Additional studies are required to understand the divergence of these effects and the efficacy of Atp1a2 as a therapeutic target in ALS.
Optical Cell Tagging for Spatially Resolved Single‐Cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Tang Qi , Liu Lu , Guo Yilan , Zhang Xu , Zhang Shaoran , Jia Yan , Du Yifei , Cheng Bo , Yang Li , Huang Yanyi , Chen Xing
Published: December 2021

Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) has emerged as a powerful tool for profiling gene expression of distinct cell populations at the single‐cell level. However, the information of the positions of cells within the multicellular samples is missing in scRNA‐seq datasets. To overcome this limitation, we herein develop OpTAG (optical cell tagging) as a new chemical platform for attaching functional tags onto cell surfaces in a spatially resolved manner. With OpTAG, we establish OpTAG‐seq, which enables spatially resolved scRNA‐seq. We apply OpTAG‐seq to investigate the spatially defined transcriptional program in migrating cancer cells and identified a list of genes that are potential regulators for cancer cell migration and invasion. OpTAG‐seq provides a convenient method for mapping cellular heterogeneity with spatial information within multicellular biological systems.
Manipulating Selective Metal‐to‐Metal Electron Transfer to Achieve Multi‐Phase Transitions in an Asymmetric [Fe2Co]‐Assembled Mixed‐Valence Chain
Authors: Yao Nian‐Tao , Zhao Liang , Yi Cheng , Liu Qiang , Li Ya‐Ming , Meng Yin‐Shan , Oshio Hiroki , Liu Tao
Published: December 2021

Manipulation of multi‐functions in molecular materials is promising for future switching and memory devices, although it is currently difficult. Herein, we assembled the asymmetric {Fe2Co} unit into a cyanide‐bridged mixed‐valence chain {[(Tp)Fe(CN)3]2Co(BIT)} ⋅ 2CH3OH (1) (Tp=hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate and BIT=3,4‐bis‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)thiophene), which showed reversible multi‐phase transitions accompanied by photo‐switchable single‐chain magnet properties and a dielectric anomaly. Variable‐temperature X‐ray structural studies revealed thermo‐ and photo‐induced selective electron transfer (ET) between the Co and one of the Fe ions. Alternating‐current magnetic susceptibility studies revealed that1displayed on and off single‐chain magnet behavior by alternating 946‐nm and 532‐nm light irradiation. A substantial anomaly in the dielectric constant was discovered during the electron transfer process, which is uncommon in similar ET complexes. These findings illustrate that1provided a new platform for multi‐phase transitions and multi‐switches adjusted by selective metal‐to‐metal ET.
Structure and performance control of high‐damping bio‐based thermoplastic polyurethane
Authors: Hou Xi , Sun Liwen , Wei Wei , Taylor Darlene K. , Su Shengpei , Yu Haibin
Published: December 2021

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) has become the focus of attention in the green and sustainable materials field because of its superior processability and recyclability. In this paper, a series of polylactic acid (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL)‐based TPUs were successfully prepared by selecting PLA glycol, PCL glycol, isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) and 1,4‐butanediol (BDO) through a one‐step polymerization method. The properties of the PLA and PCL‐based TPUs are comprehensively characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H NMR spectra, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, thermalgravimetric analyzer, tensile test, dynamic mechanical analysis, scanning electron microscope, and so forth. The effect of hard segments content and PLA glycol molecular weight on the properties of PLA and PCL‐based TPUs was systematically studied. Notably, their performance shows a certain degree of regularity and can be controlled by adjusting the hard segments content or the molecular weight of the PLA glycol. The prepared PLA and PCL‐based TPUs have a tensile strength of 24.71 MPa, excellent thermal stability and out‐standing damping performance. Its tan δ max of 1.40 and an effective damping temperature range of 50°C also make it a green damping material with great potential.
Aspirin, metformin, and statin use on the risk of gastric cancer: A nationwide population‐based cohort study in Korea with systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Seo Seung In , Park Chan Hyuk , Kim Tae Jun , Bang Chang Seok , Kim Jae Young , Lee Kyung Joo , Kim Jinseob , Kim Hyon Hee , You Seng Chan , Shin Woon Geon
Published: December 2021

Background/Aims

Although several chemopreventive drugs against gastric cancer have been proposed, their effects have not been fully evaluated. We examined the impacts of aspirin, metformin, and statin use on gastric cancer development in a population‐based cohort in Korea.

Methods

We analyzed the association between potential chemopreventive drugs—aspirin, metformin, and statin—and gastric cancer through the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership Common Data Model‐based Korean nationwide cohort. Use of aspirin, metformin, and statin was defined by ≥365 days of prescriptions for each drug in the general population. To summarize the current evidence, we further performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the impact of aspirin, metformin, and statin on gastric cancer development.

Results

After propensity score matching, 31,839, 6764, and 10,251 subjects were observed for medians of 4.7, 4.2, and 4.2 years for aspirin, metformin, and statin analysis, respectively. Use of aspirin or statin was associated with lower risks of gastric cancer compared to their non‐use, respectively (hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval [CI]]: aspirin, 0.72 [0.60–0.85], p < 0.01; statin, 0.67 [0.49–0.92], p = 0.01). However, no association was observed between metformin use and gastric cancer development (HR [95% CI]: 0.85 [0.59–1.23], p = 0.40). A subgroup of subjects with diabetes mellitus showed a lower risk of gastric cancer development with statin use. The meta‐analysis showed the highest effect size of gastric cancer development for statin, followed by aspirin and metformin.

Conclusions

Statin and aspirin use were associated with significantly reduced risks of gastric cancer development, while the use of metformin was not associated with the gastric cancer risk. The protective effect of statin against gastric cancer was also significant in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Modern Strategies for the Diversification of the Supply of Natural Compounds: The Case of Alkaloid Painkillers
Authors: Sousa João P. M. , Ramos Maria J. , Fernandes Pedro A.
Published: December 2021

Plant‐derived natural compounds have been used for treating diseases since prehistorical times. The supply of many plant‐derived natural compounds for medicinal purposes, such as thebaine, morphine, and codeine, is primarily dependent on opium poppy crop harvesting. This dependency adds an extra risk factor to ensuring the supply chain because crops are highly susceptible to environmental conditions. Emerging technologies, such as biocatalysis, might help to solve this problem by diversifying the sources of supply of these compounds. Here we review the first committed step in the production of alkaloid painkillers, the production of S‐norcoclaurine, and the enzymes involved. The improvement of these enzymes can be carried out experimentally by directed evolution and rational design strategies, supported by computational methods, to create variants that produce the S‐norcoclaurine precursor for alkaloid painkillers in heterologous organisms, meeting the pharmaceutical industry standards and needs without depending on opium poppy crops.
An integrative approach to treating ADHD
Authors: Joshi Khushbu
Published: January 2022

There have been numerous epidemiological studies and intervention studies that support direct relationships between nutrition, susceptibility to stress, mental health, and cognitive function across the lifespan, suggesting a strong correlation between a healthy diet and mental well‐being (Adan et al., 2019, p. 1322–1323).
Training during a global pandemic: A Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellow's perspective
Authors: Belgrave Christa
Published: January 2022

As the end of my fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry draws near, my days are occupied by shoring up my expertise in child and adolescent mental health. While I reflect on my training, I am struck by the role the COVID‐19 pandemic played throughout the past 20 months.
Parametric Analysis of 1,1‐Diethoxybutane Synthesis in Fixed‐Bed Reactor and Distillation Column‡
Authors: Tikekar Ketaki , Singh Kailash , Upadhyaya Sushant
Published: December 2021

A comparison of two processes of the synthesis of 1,1‐diethoxybutane (DEB) based on parametric analysis using Aspen Plus simulation has been investigated. DEB is an acetal which is a promising bio‐based additive for biofuels and their blends with conventional fuels. The thermodynamic limitations due to reversibility of the reaction can be overcome by continuously removing the by‐product water. The simulation and a parametric study of two different synthesis processes of DEB using a catalytic fixed‐bed reactor and distillation column are described. The process with three reactors and three separators in series showed better results with respect to reactor temperature, productivity of DEB, and stages of distillation column than the one with a single reactor and separator.
Subcritical Crack Growth Parameters for Glass under Different Environmental Conditions
Authors: Brokmann Christopher , Kolling Stefan , Schneider Jens
Published: December 2021

In the present work, subcritical crack growth in soda‐lime silicate glass is investigated under different environmental conditions. Crack growth parameters as a function of temperature and humidity were determined by dynamic fatigue tests. The specimens were pre‐damaged for constant initial crack lengths in all specimens using the Vickers indenter. The initial flaw size induced by the Vickers indenter was obtained by a scanning electron microscope picture of the fracture surface, which could also show the initial flaw geometry. Furthermore, the influence of humidity and temperature on the failure stress of specimens with a constant initial crack length was simulated and the deviations are shown. A comprehensive version of this investigation is currently (16.03.2021) under review in the Journal for Glass Structures and Engineering.
Numerical study on adhesively bonded glass‐metal facade elements under different loading scenarios
Authors: Silvestru Vlad A. , Englhardt Oliver , Schneider Jens
Published: December 2021

Several research studies have been completed in the past fifteen years on glass panes adhesively bonded to a metal framing with the aim to enhance the structural potential of the material glass in building envelopes. However, the transfer of the obtained results into prototypes or real projects was often impeded either (i) by the degrading properties of the investigated adhesives under the real environmental conditions which facades are subjected to or (ii) because of the limited strength of the investigated silicone adhesives. This contribution presents selected results from a research project dealing with two configurations for glass‐metal facade elements with composite structural behaviour. In the case of the first configuration, which is more suitable for application in real projects due to the applied connection materials, a silicone adhesive bonding along the perimeter of the glass pane together with grouting blocks near the glass pane corners ensure the stress transfer between glass panes and framing. For the second configuration, the stress transfer is obtained solely by acrylic adhesive bonding along the perimeter of the glass pane. In this contribution, results from finite element simulations for the two configurations under different loading scenarios and levels are presented in order to point out the deformation behaviour of such elements, their structural potential as well as some of their limitations. The applied finite element model was previously validated based on experimental results. Load scenarios resulting from in‐plane and out‐of‐plane load situations as well as from temperature loads are covered by the discussed results.
Regional expression of neuropeptides in the retina of the terrestrial slug Limax valentianus (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Limacidae)
Authors: Matsuo Ryota , Matsuo Yuko
Published: January 2022

Gastropods use lens‐bearing eyes to detect ambient light. The retina contains photoreceptors that directly project to the brain. Here, we identified the neurotransmitters that the retinal cells use for projection to the brain in the terrestrial slug Limax. We identified 12 genes encoding neuropeptides as well as a novel vesicular glutamate transporter, a marker of glutamatergic neuron, expressed in the retinal cells. Spatial expression profiles of the neuropeptide genes were determined by in situ hybridization. WWamide/MIP1/Pedal peptide2 were coexpressed in the neurons of the accessory retina. In the main retina, prohormone‐4 was expressed in the ventrolateral region. Clionin was expressed in the ventromedial region. Pedal peptide was expressed in the anterior region of the main retina and in the accessory retina. Enterin was expressed in many neurons, including the accessory retina, but not in the dorsal region. FxRIamide1 and 2 were coexpressed in the posterior region. Prohormone‐4 variant was uniformly expressed in many neurons but scarcely in the accessory retina. MIP2 was widely expressed throughout the dorsoventral axis in the posteriolateral region of the main retina. Myo1 was expressed in many neurons of the main retina but predominantly in the dorsal region. These expression patterns were confirmed by immunohistochemistry with specific antibodies against the neuropeptides. Projections of these peptidergic retinal neurons were confirmed by immunostaining of the optic nerve. Our present study revealed regional differentiation of the retina with respect to the neurotransmitters that the retinal cells use.
Mitigating execution unit contention in parallel applications using instruction‐aware mapping
Authors: Serpa Matheus S. , Cruz Eduardo H. M. , Diener Matthias , Lorenzon Arthur F. , Beck Antonio C. S. , Navaux Philippe O. A.
Published: December 2021

Parallel applications running on simultaneous multithreading (SMT) processors naturally compete for execution units when their threads are mapped to the same core. This issue is further aggravated when such threads execute similar instructions that stress the same execution unit type, making their execution to behave very similarly as if the threads were running sequentially. This, in turn, will lead to performance degradation and underutilization of hardware resources. This work proposes a completely transparent framework (no modifications to the source code are necessary) that automatically maps threads of multiple parallel applications on SMT processors. The framework focuses on improving performance by mitigating the contention on execution units, considering each thread's instruction types, which are detected at runtime by our framework. Results show performance gains of 21% (geometric mean), compared to the native scheduler of the operating system.
Memristor ratioed logic crossbar‐based delay and jump‐key flip‐flops design
Authors: Wang Ziling , Wang Lidan , Duan Shukai
Published: December 2021

Memristor has been widely explored in digital logic circuits where most of the works are focused on basic gate circuits, such as OR and AND logic gates or full adders while few involve flip‐flops. In fact, flip‐flops are also basic logic units with memory function for various digital systems. In this paper, we present circuit designs for Delay (D) and Jump‐Key (JK) flip‐flops based on memristor ratioed logic (MRL). The proposed circuit for D flip‐flop only needs five memristors and one NMOS transistor, and circuit for JK flip‐flop needs seven memristors and two NMOS transistors. Furthermore, the proposed circuits have been mapped into a hybrid memristor‐CMOS crossbar array. Compared with previous approaches, the quantity of MOSFET for each proposed circuit has been greatly reduced. Thus, the proposed designs have achieved simpler structure, smaller area, and lower power consumption benefiting from the memristor's nanoscale size and low power consumption. The circuit verification based on PSpice simulation is also provided.
Cerebrovascular stiffness and flow dynamics in the presence of amyloid and tau biomarkers
Authors: Rivera‐Rivera Leonardo A. , Eisenmenger Laura , Cody Karly A. , Reher Thomas , Betthauser Tobey , Cadman Robert V. , Rowley Howard A. , Carlsson Cynthia M. , Chin Nathaniel A. , Johnson Sterling C. , Johnson Kevin M.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

This work investigated the relationship between cerebrovascular disease (CVD) markers and Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers of amyloid beta deposition, and neurofibrillary tau tangles in subjects spanning the AD clinical spectrum.

Methods

A total of 136 subjects participated in this study. Four groups were established based on AD biomarker positivity from positron emission tomography (amyloid [A] and tau [T]) and clinical diagnosis (cognitively normal [CN] and impaired [IM]). CVD markers were derived from structural and quantitative magnetic resonance imaging data.

Results

Transcapillary pulse wave delay was significantly longer in controls compared to AT biomarker–confirmed groups (A+/T–/CN P < .001, A+/T+/CN P < .001, A+/T+/IM P = .003). Intracranial low‐frequency oscillations were diminished in AT biomarker–confirmed groups both CN and impaired (A+/T–/CN P = .039, A+/T+/CN P = .007, A+/T+/IM P = .011). A significantly higher presence of microhemorrhages was measured in A+/T+/CN compared to controls (P = .006).

Discussion

Cerebrovascular markers indicate increased vessel stiffness and reduced vasomotion in AT biomarker–positive subjects during preclinical AD.
Structurally Stable Ni(OH)2 Composite with Super Long‐term Cycling Life for Aqueous High‐performance Supercapacitor
Authors: Wang Huaiyan , Guo Chunli , Ren Xiaochuan , Zhang Yuyu , Shi QuanXin , Bai Zhongchao , Wang Nana
Published: December 2021

We synthesized an electrochemical structurally stable composite electrode, containing Ni‐doped Co(CO3)0.5OH ⋅ 0.11H2O nanoneedles and nanoflake‐/nanofrustum‐like Ni(OH)2 with highly hydrophilic group, leading to enhanced rare performance. The electrode exhibits an outstanding ultra‐long cycle life of more than 140,000 cycles. Specially, the assembled aqueous hybrid supercapacitor presents more than 80 % capacity retention even after 170,000 cycles and high energy density of 44.5 Wh kg−1. This work highlights a feasible strategy to design and develop high‐efficiency electrodes via engineering on composition and nanostructure.
The influence of policy uncertainty on exchange rate forecasting
Authors: Smales Lee A.
Published: December 2021

Using the economic policy uncertainty (EPU) index of Baker et al. (2016), we examine the influence of EPU on the characteristics of USD/JPY exchange rate forecasts. Our sample period, which spans two decades, incorporates a range of economic and political conditions for the USA and Japan. Consistent with higher EPU engendering a more complex information environment, that introduces noise into the forecasting process, our results clearly demonstrate that analyst forecast errors, and forecast dispersion, increase with EPU. The empirical findings are consistent across forecast horizons ranging from 1 month to 1 year. This has important implications for market participants who use exchange rate forecasts when making business and investment decisions.
Flowpath influence on stream acid events in tropical urban streams in Singapore
Authors: Ramchunder Sorain J. , Voutchkova Denitza D. , Estrada Elvagris Segovia , Chuah C. Joon , Evaristo Jaivime , Ng Daniel , Cai Yixiong , Koh Rachel Y. T. , Ziegler Alan D.
Published: December 2021

We investigated processes contributing to periodic acidification events in headwater streams of Nee Soon Forest Catchment (NSFC) in Singapore by monitoring hydrochemical changes in response to rainfall inputs. Stream chemistry response to most rainfall events was characterized by decreases in pH from means ranging from 5.1 to 5.3 to below 4.8–5.0 and corresponding increases in specific electrical conductivity from baseflow values of 15–30 to 50–80 μS cm−1, indicative of low‐total dissolved solids in stormflow. The decreases in pH in the streams, which are typically acidic year‐round, were related to occasional highly acidic rainfall inputs (pH ~4.05) and likely the flushing of organic acids into the stream by shallow subsurface flow interacting with surface litter and/or organic‐rich soil horizons. The interaction of rainwater runoff with organic matter in the soil matrix possibly alters the chemical composition of stormflow, influencing pH. Decomposition of instream organic matter also reduces stream water pH. Leaching experiments revealed that the overland flow passing through organic matter and A horizon material has the potential to lower stream water pH by approximately a half unit or more, in part, by flushing nitrates that were produced by microbial decomposition of organic matter and/or precipitated sulphur that enterred the forest by wet or dry atmospheric deposition. The observed periodic acid events are a natural phenomenon in the stream system in this urban environment because of naturally acidic rainfall and granitic soils with low buffering potential. However, acid events are likely amplified in frequency and magnitude by anthropogenic pollution emissions of sulphur and nitrogen species (e.g., SO2and NOx) from local and regional sources that lower rainfall pH. Although, acid runoff events are typically short‐lived (<12–24 h), further longitudinal monitoring and experimental studies are needed to investigate the long‐term implications on sensitive taxa in the NSFC streams. Finally, understanding the flow pathways of stormflow water in the nested system was critical for deciphering the mechanisms driving stream acid events at the site.
How state ownership affects corporate R&D: An inverted‐U‐shaped relationship
Authors: Fu Tong , Jian Ze , Li Youwei
Published: December 2021

The existing literature provides mixed evidence about the effect of state ownership on corporate research and development (R&D). As this article hypothesizes, state ownership has a positive institutional effect on the investment environment for R&D and a negative institutional effect on firm operations for innovation. With evidence from China, we confirm that state‐owned shares have an inverted‐U‐shaped causal effect on corporate R&D and that having the state as a minority shareholder is optimal for corporate R&D. We further document that, when a firm's R&D investment at least equals reinvestment of its profit, the threshold for state‐owned shares is larger than it would be otherwise. Therefore, we justify the contradictory institutional effects of state ownership with an inverted‐U‐shaped relationship, thereby enhancing understanding of institutions and state ownership for corporate finance.
Investigation of nonlinear photoacoustic microscopy using a low‐cost infrared lamp
Authors: Seong Myeongsu , Yang Wenzhao , Han Yujie , Zhou Jiasheng , Jing Lili , Chen Sung‐Liang
Published: January 2022

Nonlinear photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) is a novel approach to enhance contrast and resolution. In this study, a low‐cost infrared (IR) lamp as a simple approach for nonlinear PAM is demonstrated. Numerical simulations are first performed to verify the nonlinear photoacoustic effect under steady heating for two cases: (a) Differentiation of absorbers with different Grüneisen coefficients; (b) enhancement of photoacoustic amplitude. Then, sets of experiments are conducted to experimentally demonstrate our proposed approach: (a) Longitudinal monitoring of photoacoustic A‐line signals from two samples, porcine tissue ex vivo and hemoglobin and indocyanine green (ICG) solutions in tubes in vitro for demonstrating the above‐mentioned two cases; (b) PAM imaging of hemoglobin and ICG solutions in tubes before and after IR lamp heating. Different signal change and amplitude enhancement are observed in different demonstrations, showing the efficacy of the proposed approach. By virtue of cost‐effectiveness and decent performance, our work facilitates nonlinear PAM studies.
Low‐level gastrokine 2 promoted progress of NSCLC and as a potential biomarker
Authors: Yang Xiang , Shi Wenjing , Zhou Huixin , Huang Xiaolou , Hu Lijuan , Feng Jiang , Wang Yumin
Published: December 2021

Background

Gastrokine 2 (GKN2) is significantly downregulated in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissues than in normal tissues (NT), as assessed by mRNA microassay; however, the mechanism and clinical value of GKN2 is unknown in NSCLC.

Methods

A total of 60 NSCLC samples and corresponding NT samples were prospectively collected GKN2 expression in NSCLC tissues was estimated. Also, the expression level of GKN2 promoter methylation and correlation with clinical data in NSCLC patients from public databases were analyzed. Cytology experiments were also carried out.

Results

The GKN2 mRNA and protein expression level in NSCLC was significantly lower than that in the NT, and the GKN2 expression level in large tumors NSCLC was significantly lower than that in the small tumor group. Public data showed that expression of GKN2 in LUAD with P53 mutation group was lower than that of the P53 non‐mutation group, and GKN2 promoter methylation level of LUAD was significantly higher than its NT and close to age and clinical stage. Cell migration, invasion, and proliferation ability of GKN2 overexpressed were lower in A549 and PC9 groups than those in GKN2 overexpressed A549 and PC9 negative control groups, while the percentage of apoptotic cells increased in the GKN2 overexpressed A549 and PC9 groups. The DNMT3B mRNA expression levels were higher in PC9 and A549 cells than BEAS‐2B cells.

Conclusion

The overexpression of GKN2 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and promoted apoptosis. Low‐level GKN2 promoted the progression of NSCLC via DNMT3B and is expected to be a biomarker for NSCLC.
Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with depressed myocardial mechanoenergetics
Authors: Ersoy İbrahim , Demir Fulya Avcı
Published: December 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the association between the myocardial mechanoenergetic efficiency index (MEEi) and the Apnea‐Hypopnea Index (AHI) in the initial phase of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) diagnosis.

Methods

In this cohort study, we included a total of 382 eligible participants without cardiovascular disease in a tertiary outpatient clinic between January 2013 and January 2015. We recorded demographic, clinical, polysomnographic and echocardiographic variables of the patients. In addition, myocardial mechanoenergetic efficiency (MEE) and MEEi were calculated by an echocardiography‐derived validated measurement.

Results

The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 48.47 ± 12.13, and male/female ratio was 287/95. Comparing with non‐OSA, MEEi was significantly lower in OSA patients at all stages (0.35 ± 0.08 vs. 0.42 ± 0.05; p < .001). MEEi was negatively correlated with hypertension (r = −0.518, p < .001), body mass index (r = −0.382, p < .001), AHI (r = −0.656, p < .001), total apne (r = −0.525, p < .001), hypopnea (r = −0.415, p < .001), systolic pulmonary pressure (r = −0.318, p < .001), relative wall thickness (RWT; r = −0.415, p < .001), and positive correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (r = 0.586, p < .001). According to multiple linear regression analysis AHI (β = −0.625, p < .001), total apnea (β = −0.402, p = .001), hypopnea (β = −0.395, p = .001), LV ejection fraction (β = 0.478, p < .001) and RWT (β = −0.279, p < .001) have an independent relationship with MEEi.

Conclusions

MEEi was lower in OSA patients. A reduced MEEi may reflect a disturbance in energy use of the myocardium. Consequently, our results may provide insight into the mechanisms leading to structural cardiac diseases in OSA patients.
Number of attempts required by emergency physicians to achieve competency in diaphragmatic ultrasound imaging
Authors: Puchongmart Chanokporn , Nakornchai Tanyaporn , Rittayamai Nuttapol , Monsomboon Apichaya , Prapruetkit Nattakarn , Limsuwat Chok , Ruangsomboon Onlak , Chakorn Tipa
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This research aimed to determine the number of attempts that emergency physicians need to become proficient in undertaking diaphragmatic ultrasound imaging.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted at the emergency department (ED) of a tertiary‐care university hospital. Sixteen emergency physicians were each required to obtain a set of images of the right hemidiaphragm of five dyspneic patients using both diaphragmatic excursion and thickness techniques. The images were subsequently reviewed by a specialist using American College of Emergency Physician guidelines. If the evaluations of a physician did not reach the expected standard, the physician was to be given feedback and requested to collect images from another five patients. The process was to be repeated until such time as the images obtained by the physician were deemed to be up to standard.

Results

Eighty patients, twelve emergency medicine residents, and four attending physicians were enrolled. Following a didactic session on diaphragmatic ultrasound imaging and its interpretation, practicing on five patients proved sufficient to achieve an adequate level of competency in conducting diaphragmatic ultrasound examinations.

Conclusion

Practicing on five patients is sufficient for emergency physicians to achieve an adequate level of competency in conducting right‐sided diaphragmatic ultrasound examinations.
A 3‐year quantitative evaluation of interprofessional team‐based clinical education at an Australian dental school
Authors: Storrs Mark J , Henderson Amanda J , Kroon Jeroen , Evans Jane L , Love Robert M
Published: January 2022

Purpose/Objectives

Clinical educational challenges led to the Griffith University School of Dentistry and Oral Health (DOH) introducing interprofessional team‐based treatment planning (TBTP). This paper evaluates the interprofessional contribution made to student clinical learning and experience among dentistry, oral health therapy, dental prosthetics, and dental technology students.

Methods

A mixed methodology approach targeting 845 students collected data annually employing a prevalidated online instrument from 2012 to 2014 to answer the question: “What is the contribution of interprofessional student team‐based processes on students’ perceptions of interprofessional practice at DOH?”

Results

A representative study sample with a 64.4% response rate (N = 544) reported TBTP creating a supportive environment for interprofessional clinical learning. Significant improvements in learning shared across disciplines indicated improvements in mutual respect, understanding roles, and constructive communication enhancing teamwork. There were increasing significant correlations between shared learning and positive clinical experiences from 2012 (r = .642, p < .000) to 2013 (r = .678, p < .000) and 2014 (r = .719, p < .000). A combination of TBTP predictors accounted for 53% of the variance in clinical learning and experience in 2014 compared to 40% in 2012.

Conclusion

Learning with other students, developing teamwork abilities, improved communication skills, and respect for other oral health professions were aspects of TBTP that positively impacted clinical learning and practice at DOH. Further study would assist to determine specific elements that made the greatest contribution to student learning experiences.
Cis‐regulation of antisense non‐coding RNA at the JAZF1 locus in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ding Qiuju , Zhao Weiwei , Long Jirong , Alsafar Habiba , Zhou Qing , Chen Huimei
Published: January 2022

Background

Several genomic loci of type 2 diabetes (T2D) nominated in genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have been suggested to regulate metabolism in muscle. However, a large portion of the genetic risk and the underlying regulation remain unexplained. The present study aimed to localize the potentially functional regions or genes at juxtaposed with another zinc finger protein 1 (JAZF1) locus and interpret their possible biological mechanisms in the muscle of T2D.

Methods

Seven GWAS datasets including 21,897 T2D patients and 32,710 healthy controls of 772 SNPs within JAZF1 locus were meta‐analysed using unconditional logistic regression. The Sherlock and GTEx protal online algorithms were implemented to show the significant colocalizations. Multiple omics data were integrated to predict the potential biological functions of JAZF1‐AS1 in muscle. The cis regulation of JAZF1‐AS1 was analysed using in vitro cloning in Human skeletal muscle cells (HSkMC).

Results

With a cross‐population meta‐analysis of seven GWAS, we identified a linkage disequilibrium (LD) block within intron 1 of JAZF1 that was significantly associated with T2D (false discovery rate < 0.05). The colocalization analysis showed a significant association between genetically determined expression of JAZF1 in skeletal muscle and T2D with a strong probability of colocalization (PP4 = 75.09%). This region also encodes the upstream regulatory region of the antisense non‐coding RNA JAZF1‐AS1. Expression‐quantitative trait loci analysis detected a regulatory SNP within this LD block, rs864745, which is associated with the expression of JAZF1‐AS1 and JAZF1. With in vitro cloning, we further reported the role of JAZF1‐AS1 in cis‐regulating JAZF1 by directly forming RNA double strands. Downregulation of JAZF1, caused by JAZF1‐AS1 depletion, inhibited the glucose uptake and lipid oxidation in skeletal muscle.

Conclusions

The present study proposes a strategy for identifying a novel T2D gene at the reported locus and generating a model in which polymorphisms at JAZF1 influence T2D risk through antisense‐mediated gene regulation.
The impact of COVID‐19 government responses on remittances in Latin American countries
Authors: Cardozo Silva Adriana R. , Diaz Pavez Luis R. , Martínez‐Zarzoso Inmaculada , Nowak‐Lehmann Felicitas
Published: December 2021

Workers' remittances declined sharply as the COVID‐19 pandemic spread in the first half of 2020, rebounding in the second half. This paper analyses the impact of containment and economic support measures on remittances sent to Latin America during 2019–2020 using a gravity model estimated with the Poisson pseudo‐maximum likelihood estimator (PPML). Results show that containment measures in receiving countries mainly explain the fall in remittance flows, whereas the effect of economic support measures is not robust. Among the traditional explanatory factors, the business cycle and the real exchange rate in receiving countries explain the subsequent recovery of remittances.
MRI‐Based Back Propagation Neural Network Model as a Powerful Tool for Predicting the Response to Induction Chemotherapy in Locoregionally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Liao Hai , Chen Xiaobo , Lu Shaolu , Jin Guanqiao , Pei Wei , Li Ye , Wei Yunyun , Huang Xia , Wang Chenghuan , Liang Xueli , Bao Huayan , Liu Lidong , Su Danke
Published: December 2021

Background

Pretreatment individualized assessment of tumor response to induction chemotherapy (ICT) is a need in locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LANPC). Imaging method plays vital role in tumor response assessment. However, powerful imaging method for ICT response prediction in LANPC is insufficient.

Purpose

To establish a robust model for predicting response to ICT in LANPC by comparing the performance of back propagation neural network (BPNN) model with logistic regression model.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 286 LANPC patients were assigned to training (N = 200, 43.8 ± 10.9 years, 152 male) and testing (N = 86, 43.5 ± 11.3 years, 57 male) cohorts.

Field Strength/Sequence

T2‐weighted imaging, contrast enhanced‐T1‐weighted imaging using fast spin echo sequences at 1.5 T scanner.

Assessment

Predictive clinical factors were selected by univariate and multivariate logistic models. Radiomic features were screened by interclass correlation coefficient, single‐factor analysis, and the least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO). Four models based on clinical factors (Modelclinic), radiomics features (Modelradiomics), and clinical factors + radiomics signatures using logistic (Modelcombined), and BPNN (ModelBPNN) methods were established, and model performances were compared.

Statistical Tests

Student's t‐test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and Chi‐square test or Fisher's exact test were used for comparison analysis. The performance of models was assessed by area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) and Delong test. P < 0.05 was considered statistical significance.

Results

Three significant clinical factors: Epstein–Barr virus‐DNA (odds ratio [OR] = 1.748; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.969–3.171), sex (OR = 2.883; 95% CI, 1.364–6.745), and T stage (OR = 1.853; 95% CI, 1.201–3.052) were identified via univariate and multivariate logistic models. Twenty‐four radiomics features were associated with treatment response. ModelBPNN demonstrated the highest performance among Modelcombined, Modelradiomics, and Modelclinic (AUC of training cohort: 0.917 vs. 0.808 vs. 0.795 vs. 0.707; testing cohort: 0.897 vs. 0.755 vs. 0.698 vs. 0.695).

Conclusion

A machine‐learning approach using BPNN showed better ability than logistic regression model to predict tumor response to ICT in LANPC.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2