bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing Hierarchical Porous ZnO/ZnFe2O4 Hybrid Nanofibers with Robust Core/Shell Heterostructure as Competitive Anodes for Efficient Lithium Storage
Authors: Zhang Longhai , Bao Ruiqi , Xu Senyang , Hou Linrui , Zhang Chaofeng , Yuan Changzhou
Published: November 2020

Hierarchical hybrid heteroarchitectures possess attractive structural/compositional merits for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, a facile yet in situ growth strategy is proposed to scalably synthesize hierarchical porous ZnO/ZnFe2O4 hybrid nanofibers (NFs) with robust core/shell heterostructure toward LIBs. In such hybrids, 2D ZnFe2O4 nanosheets (NSs) are uniformly decorated on single‐crystalline ZnO core NFs, thereby affording more exposed active sites, a fast ion diffusion kinetic, and structural stability of electrodes during repeated cycling. As a result, benefiting from the unique hierarchical porous core/shell architecture and synergistic effects between the stable substrate of ZnO NFs and high‐capacity promoter of ZnFe2O4 NSs, the optimized ZnO/ZnFe2O4 hybrid as an anode for LIBs delivers a large reversible capacity of ≈688 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, high rate capability (≈288 mAh g−1 at 2.0 A g−1), and remarkable cyclability (≈491 mAh g−1 even over 250 cycles at 0.5 A g−1) for efficient lithium storage. This work highlights the rational design of a hierarchical architecture with a stable substrate and high‐capacity phases for next‐generation energy storage applications.
A General Template‐Induced Sulfuration Approach for Preparing Bifunctional Hollow Sulfides for High‐Performance Al‐ and Li‐ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Jinyun , Zhang Min , Han Tianli , Si Ting , Zhang Huigang , Hu Chaoquan
Published: November 2020

Hollow nanomaterials have attracted broad attention due to their geometric configuration with some special properties such as fast ion diffusion, and accommodating structural transformation. However, conventional approaches for preparing hollow nanostructure commonly need an additional template removal process, which is time‐consuming and may require some corrosive chemicals. Herein, a general template‐induced sulfuration method is presented which is applicable for preparing a broad set of hollow sulfides. Sulfur particles are synthesized, which are then used as both template and sulfurizing reagent. During the heating, the template is removed along with the sublimation of sulfur, meanwhile the sulfur vapors sulfurize the coated precursor, finally forming a hollow sulfide nanostructure. As a demonstrating case study, a hollow NiS2 nanostructure is prepared through the presented approach which is confirmed extendable for many other sulfides such as CoS2, Bi2S3, and Cu2S. Furthermore, the hollow NiS2 exhibits bifunctional properties using as Al‐ion battery cathode and Li‐ion battery anode with good electrochemical performance, such as a 1000‐cycles stable capacity at high current density of 5 A g−1, stable temperature‐endurable property, and well‐recoverable rate performance.
Finite element analysis of the seismic shake‐table response of a rocking podium structure
Authors: Zhong Chiyun , Christopoulos Constantin
Published: November 2020

Rocking podium structures consist of rocking columns supporting a platform to achieve kinematic seismic isolation of the superstructure above. This article presents detailed finite element (FE) analysis modeling and results of the benchmark rocking podium structure that was tested as part of a blind prediction contest organized by the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research center (PEER) at UC Berkeley, the University of Bristol, and ETH Zurich in 2019. Details of the FE modeling approach, as well as a discussion on key results and findings of this study are outlined herein. It was found that the FE model of the rocking podium structure was not sensitive to the element type, mesh layout or maximum time step, while the choice of contact algorithm influences the stability of the predicted rocking behavior. Modeling of the friction interactions between the rocking interfaces also had a nontrivial influence on the dynamic rocking response as it represented the main source of energy dissipation in the system. Further, instead of assuming an arbitrary value for inherent damping which was deemed to be very low for such a structure, explicit modeling of the frictional dissipation mechanism at the column‐to‐podium interface was preferred in this study.
Top management team international diversity and the performance of international R&D
Authors: Belderbos René , Lokshin Boris , Boone Christophe , Jacob Jojo
Published: November 2020

Research Summary

We investigate how international diversity in Top Management Teams (TMTs) contributes to the effectiveness of geographically dispersed R&D strategies in enhancing innovation performance. Both international work experience and nationality diversity may enhance the effectiveness of geographically dispersed R&D when there is alignment between the countries of work experience and nationality of TMT members, on the one hand, and firms' R&D locations on the other. This influence is stronger for international work experience diversity than for nationality diversity, as the former provides more task‐related knowledge to coordinate R&D activities and is less associated with the risk of social categorization. We find partial support for these notions in a panel analysis of the innovation performance of 165 leading MNCs based in Europe, Japan, and the United States.

Managerial Summary

The international experience and nationality diversity of members of the Top Management Team (TMT) of multinational firms may facilitate the implementation of international R&D strategies. If TMT members have knowledge of local circumstances and social networks in the countries in which the firm has international R&D facilities, this can enhance the TMT's ability to allocate and coordinate international R&D tasks more effectively, and to foster firm‐wide collaboration and knowledge integration. Hence, the alignment between R&D locations and the international diversity of the TMT may improve the performance effects of international R&D strategies. We find partial support for this conjecture in an analysis of the patent performance of 165 leading MNCs. It is international work experience rather than nationality diversity that brings these performance benefits.
Factors Associated With Hepatitis A Mortality During Person‐to‐Person Outbreaks: A Matched Case–Control Study—United States, 2016‐2019
Authors: Hofmeister Megan G. , Xing Jian , Foster Monique A. , Augustine Ryan J. , Burkholder Cole , Collins Jim , McBee Shannon , Thomasson Erica D. , Thoroughman Douglas , Weng Mark K. , Spradling Philip R.
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

During 2016‐2020, the United States experienced person‐to‐person hepatitis A outbreaks that are unprecedented in the vaccine era, during which case–fatality ratios reported by some jurisdictions exceeded those historically associated with hepatitis A.

Approach and Results

To identify factors associated with hepatitis A–related mortality, we performed a matched case–control study (matched on age [±5 years] and county of residence in a 1:4 ratio) using data collected from health department and hospital medical records of outbreak‐associated patients in Kentucky, Michigan, and West Virginia. Controls were hepatitis A outbreak–associated patients who did not die. There were 110 cases (mean age 53.6 years) and 414 matched controls (mean age 51.9 years); most cases (68.2%) and controls (63.8%) were male. Significantly (P < 0.05) higher odds of mortality were associated with preexisting nonviral liver disease (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 5.2), history of hepatitis B (aOR, 2.4), diabetes (aOR, 2.2), and cardiovascular disease (aOR, 2.2), as well as initial Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score ≥ 30 (aOR, 10.0), aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio > 2 (aOR, 10.3), and platelet count < 150,000/μL (aOR, 3.7) among hepatitis A outbreak–associated patients in the independent multivariable conditional logistic regression analyses (each model adjusted for sex).

Conclusions

Preexisting liver disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and initial MELD score ≥ 30, AST/ALT ratio ≥ 1, and platelet count < 150,000/μL among hepatitis A patients were independently associated with higher odds of mortality. Providers should be vigilant for such features and have a low threshold to escalate care and consider consultation for liver transplantation. Our findings support the recommendation of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to vaccinate persons with chronic liver disease, though future recommendations to include adults with diabetes and cardiovascular disease should be considered.
Heterogeneous Circles for Liver Allocation
Authors: Wood Nicholas L. , Kernodle Amber B. , Hartley Andrew J. , Segev Dorry L. , Gentry Sommer E.
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

In February 2020, the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network replaced donor service area‐based allocation of livers with acuity circles, a system based on three homogeneous circles around each donor hospital. This system has been criticized for neglecting to consider varying population density and proximity to coast and national borders.

Approach and Results

Using Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients data from July 2013 to June 2017, we designed heterogeneous circles to reduce both circle size and variation in liver supply/demand ratios across transplant centers. We weighted liver demand by Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD)/Pediatric End‐Stage Liver Disease (PELD) because higher MELD/PELD candidates are more likely to be transplanted. Transplant centers in the West had the largest circles; transplant centers in the Midwest and South had the smallest circles. Supply/demand ratios ranged from 0.471 to 0.655 livers per MELD‐weighted incident candidate. Our heterogeneous circles had lower variation in supply/demand ratios than homogeneous circles of any radius between 150 and 1,000 nautical miles (nm). Homogeneous circles of 500 nm, the largest circle used in the acuity circles allocation system, had a variance in supply/demand ratios 16 times higher than our heterogeneous circles (0.0156 vs. 0.0009) and a range of supply/demand ratios 2.3 times higher than our heterogeneous circles (0.421 vs. 0.184). Our heterogeneous circles had a median (interquartile range) radius of only 326 (275‐470) nm but reduced disparities in supply/demand ratios significantly by accounting for population density, national borders, and geographic variation of supply and demand.

Conclusions

Large homogeneous circles create logistical burdens on transplant centers that do not need them, whereas small homogeneous circles increase geographic disparity. Using carefully designed heterogeneous circles can reduce geographic disparity in liver supply/demand ratios compared with homogeneous circles of radius ranging from 150 to 1,000 nm.
Fecal Microbiota Transplant in Cirrhosis Reduces Gut Microbial Antibiotic Resistance Genes: Analysis of Two Trials
Authors: Bajaj Jasmohan S. , Shamsaddini Amirhossein , Fagan Andrew , Sterling Richard K. , Gavis Edith , Khoruts Alexander , Fuchs Michael , Lee Hannah , Sikaroodi Masoumeh , Gillevet Patrick M.
Published: November 2020

Fecal transplant is associated with reduction in the expression of antibiotic-resistance genes in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Genes focused on beta-lactamase and vancomycin resistance reduced after fecal transplant regardless of pre-procedure antibiotics and concurrent use of lactulose, rifaximin or PPIs.

Antibiotic resistance leads to poor outcomes in cirrhosis. Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is associated with reduction in antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) burden in patients without cirrhosis; however, the impact in cirrhosis is unclear. We aimed to study the effect of capsule and enema FMT on ARG abundance in fecal samples, which were collected during two published FMT trials in patients with cirrhosis on rifaximin, lactulose, and proton pump inhibitors. ARGs were identified using metagenomics and mapped against the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database. Changes in ARG abundance were studied within/between groups. The capsule FMT trial involved a one-time FMT or placebo capsule administration with stool collection at baseline and week 4 postintervention. Antibiotics+enema FMT included preprocedure antibiotics followed by FMT enema versus standard-of-care (SOC). Stool was collected at baseline, postantibiotics, and day 7/15 postintervention. Both trials included 20 patients each. There was no safety/infection signal linked to FMT. In the capsule trial, beta-lactamase (OXY/LEN) expression decreased post-FMT versus baseline. Compared to placebo, patients who were post-FMT had lower abundance of vancomycin (VanH), beta-lactamase (ACT), and rifamycin ARGs; the latter was associated with cognitive improvement. No changes were seen within patients treated with placebo. In the antibiotics+enema trial for postantibiotics at day 7 versus baseline, there was an increase in vancomycin and beta-lactamase ARGs, which decreased at day 15. However, quinolone resistance increased at day 15 versus baseline. Between SOC and FMT, day 7 had largely lower ARG (CfxA beta-lactamase, VanW, and VanX) that continued at day 15 (cepA beta-lactamase, VanW). No changes were seen within the SOC group. Conclusion: Despite differences in routes of administration and preintervention antibiotics, we found that ARG abundance is largely reduced after FMT compared to pre-FMT baseline and non-FMT groups in decompensated cirrhosis.
Multiomic analysis identifies natural intrapatient temporal variability and changes in response to systemic corticosteroid therapy in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Hoggard Michael , Jacob Bincy , Wheeler David , Zoing Melissa , Chang Kevin , Biswas Kristi , Middleditch Martin , Douglas Richard G. , Taylor Michael W.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

The pathophysiology and temporal dynamics of affected tissues in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remain poorly understood. Here, we present a multiomics‐based time‐series assessment of nasal polyp biopsies from three patients with CRS, assessing natural variability over time and local response to systemic corticosteroid therapy.

Methods

Polyp tissue biopsies were collected at three time points over two consecutive weeks. Patients were prescribed prednisone (30 mg daily) for 1 week between Collections 2 and 3. Polyp transcriptome, proteome, and microbiota were assessed via RNAseq, SWATH mass spectrometry, and 16S ribosomal RNA and ITS2 amplicon sequencing. Baseline interpatient variability, natural intrapatient variability over time, and local response to systemic corticosteroids, were investigated.

Results

Overall, the highly abundant transcripts and proteins were associated with pathways involved in inflammation, FAS, cadherin, integrin, Wnt, apoptosis, and cytoskeletal signaling, as well as coagulation and B‐ and T‐cell activation. Transcripts and proteins that naturally varied over time included those involved with inflammation‐ and epithelial–mesenchymal transition‐related pathways, and a number of common candidate target biomarkers of CRS. Ten transcripts responded significantly to corticosteroid therapy, including downregulation of TNF, CCL20, and GSDMA, and upregulation of OVGP1, and PCDHGB1. Members of the bacterial genus Streptococcus positively correlated with immunoglobulin proteins IGKC and IGHG1.

Conclusions

Understanding natural dynamics of CRS‐associated tissues is essential to provide baseline context for all studies on putative biomarkers, mechanisms, and subtypes of CRS. These data further our understanding of the natural dynamics within nasal polypoid tissue, as well as local changes in response to systemic corticosteroid therapy.
NAD(P)‐dependent steroid dehydrogenase‐like protein and neutral cholesterol ester hydrolase 1 serve as novel markers for early detection of gastric cancer identified using quantitative proteomics
Authors: Xiao Yang , Xie Jiebin , Liu Lan , Huang Wentao , Han Qiang , Qin Jiayi , Liu Shunying , Jiang Zhen
Published: November 2020

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is the third most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. In the present study, we aimed to identify novel GC biomarkers by integrating isobaric tags of relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) for aberrantly expressed proteins in GC patients.

Methods

Using stable isotope tags, we labeled an initial discovery group comprising four paired gastric cancer and adjacent gastric tissue samples, and subjected them to LC‐ESI‐MS/MS. We used a validation set comprising 129 paired gastric cancer and adjacent gastric tissues from patients and benign healthy controls to validate the candidate targets.

Results

We identified two proteins, NAD(P)‐dependent steroid dehydrogenase‐like (NSDHL) and neutral cholesterol ester hydrolase 1 (NCEH1), that were significantly overexpressed in GC tissues. The sensitivity and specificity of NSDHL were 80.6% and 74.4%, respectively, in GC compared with a sensitivity of 25.6% in adjacent tissues and 24% in benign healthy controls. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for NSDHL was 0.810 for GC detection. Overexpression of NSDHL in GC was significantly correlated with local tumor invasion. The sensitivity and specificity of NCEH1 were 77.5% and 73.6%, respectively, in GC compared with a sensitivity of 26.4% in adjacent tissues and 20% in benign controls. The AUC for NSDHL was 0.792. Overexpression of NCEH1 was significantly associated with tumor histological classification and local invasion. Moreover, a combined analysis of NSDHL and NCEH1 achieved a sensitivity and specificity of 85.7% and 83%, respectively, and the AUC was 0.872. The combined analysis of NSDHL and NCEH1 was significantly correlated with histological grade and TNM Ⅱ‐Ⅳ staging.

Conclusions

iTRAQ‐labeled quantitative proteomics represents a powerful method to identify novel cancer biomarkers. The present study identified NSDHL and NCEH1 as useful biomarkers for screening, diagnosis, and prognosis of patients with gastric cancer.
Social media as a learning tool: Dental students’ perspectives
Authors: Rajeh Mona T. , Sembawa Shahinaz N. , Nassar Afnan A. , Al Hebshi Seba A. , Aboalshamat Khalid T. , Badri Mohammed K.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

This study explored the perceptions of dental students in Saudi Arabia for implementing social media as an educational tool.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among dental students in 3 governmental dental schools in the western region of Saudi Arabia. A validated questionnaire was used to explore social media use and student perceptions on the advantages and disadvantages of implementing social media in dental education. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's’ χ2, Kruskal‐Wallis, and Fishers’ exact tests were used for data analysis.

Results

The survey included 1034 students from third to sixth year and dental interns. WhatsApp was the most used social media platform (97.5%), followed by Snapchat (90.5%), Twitter (85.2%), and Instagram (83.4%). Social media was used for entertainment (81.4%), dental learning (70.8%), searching for general information (63.3%), exchanging general ideas (63.1%), and community general discussion (55.8%). The predominant advantages of using social media in learning were assistance in gaining more information on different subjects, making education more engaging, affording a better chance to access new resources, improving the ability for creativity and innovation, and improving research skills. In contrast, the predominant disadvantages were distraction from studying, increasing addictive potential, increased time spent, and concerns over no direct contact with the instructors.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest that students report social media can be a valuable learning tool in dental education if appropriately used. A proper understanding of social media and its usefulness in supporting learning can benefit both students and faculty members.
Thermal, morphological, and spectral changes after Er, Cr:YSGG laser irradiation at low fluences on primary teeth for caries prevention
Authors: Erkmen Almaz Merve , Ulusoy Nur Burcu , Akbay Oba Aylin , Erdem Ümit , Doğan Mustafa
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the temperature increase in the pulp chamber and possible thermal effects on molecular structure of primary teeth during the irradiation with Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Primary central incisors were divided into three groups (n = 20). Labial surfaces in each group were irradiated by Er,Cr:YSGG laser within different power and frequencies as following groups: I: 0.25 W, 20 Hz, II: 0.50 W, 20 Hz, III: 0.75 W, 20 Hz. A thermocouple was placed inside the pulp chamber so that the temperature increments were recorded during the enamel irradiation. Morphological changes of enamel surfaces were experimentally evaluated by SEM. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and RAMAN analyses were carried out to determine the differentiations in the molecular structure. The experimental results obtained were analyzed statistically by means of one‐way analysis of variance. Statistically significant differences were detected between groups (p < .05). Group III exhibited the highest values for the temperature parameters. Besides, the conical craters, cracks, and formation of ablation areas were observed for all the groups. Also, it was obtained that the hydroxyapatite lost the hydroxyl ions due to the thermal effect of the laser. Temperature rise throughout the Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation for prevention of primary enamel demineralization presented a positive correlation with the laser output power level. The formations of adverse morphological and spectral changes were detected on the surface of teeth after the laser application. On this basis, the Er,Cr:YSGG laser applications should be treated with much more caution considering enamel surface and pulpal tissues in primary teeth.
Author reply to “Being a family medicine resident in the United States”
Authors: Heist Brian S. , Torok Haruka Matsubara
Published: November 2020

This is a reply to a Letter to the Editor regarding our recent publications. We feel that the letter's content largely aligns with the content of our work.
Synthesis of pyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazoles: A review
Authors: Sikandar Sana , Zahoor Ameer Fawad
Published: November 2020

One‐pot synthesis of pyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazole derivatives via two or multicomponent condensation of β‐ketoesters, hydrazine monohydrate/phenyl hydrazine, malononitrile, and substituted benzaldehydes is of great interest not only in synthetic chemistry but also in medicinal chemistry because of the tremendous biological activities, such as anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and enzyme inhibitory activities exhibited by pyranopyrazoles. This review provides extensive knowledge on novel synthetic methodologies of biologically active non‐spiro/spiro‐pyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazole derivatives published recently.
One‐pot synthesis of spiro‐acridine/indoline and indoline derivatives using (MWCNTs)‐COOH/La2O3 hybrid as an effective catalyst
Authors: Abdoli Mahshid , Nami Navabeh , Hossaini Zinatossadat
Published: November 2020

Spiro‐acridine/indoline and indoline derivatives were synthesized by the three‐component reaction of isatin, dimedone, and amines or amino acids in the presence of acid‐functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes/La2O3 (MWCNTs)‐COOH/La2O3 hybrid (5 mol%) as a highly efficient catalyst in ethanol. The assigned structure was further established by CHN analysis, NMR, and FTIR spectra. (MWCNTs)‐COOH/La2O3 was fabricated by the reaction of functionalized (MWCNTs)‐COOH and La(NO3)3.6H2O in acetic acid. Synthesis of La2O3 nanoparticles and their conjugation on the surface of MWCNT have been confirmed by FTIR, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy.
Detecting Task Functional MRI Activation Using the Multiband Multiecho (MBME) Echo‐Planar Imaging (EPI) Sequence
Authors: Cohen Alexander D. , Jagra Amritpal S. , Yang Baolian , Fernandez Brice , Banerjee Suchandrima , Wang Yang
Published: November 2020

Background

Blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) functional MRI (fMRI) has been widely applied to detect brain activations. Recent advances in multiband (MB) and multiecho (ME) techniques have greatly improved fMRI methods. MB imaging improves temporal and/or spatial resolution, while ME imaging has been shown to improve BOLD sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the novel MBME echo planar imaging (EPI) sequence utilizing MB and ME simultaneously to determine if the MBME outperform the MB single echo (MBSE) sequence for task fMRI.

Purpose

To compare the performance of MBME with MBSE in a task fMRI study.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

A total of 29 healthy volunteers aged 20–46 years (9 male, 20 female).

Field Strength/Sequence

MBSE and MBME gradient‐echo EPI sequences were applied at 3T. Additional T1‐weighted magnetization‐prepared rapid acquisition with gradient echo (MPRAGE) was collected.

Assessment

A checkerboard visual task was presented during the functional MBSE and MBME scans. The MBME or MBSE signal was evaluated using the temporal signal‐to‐noise ratio (tSNR). Task activation was evaluated using the z‐score, volume, sensitivity, and specificity. Test–retest metrics of task activation were examined with the Dice coefficient (DC) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) on subjects with repeated scans.

Statistical Tests

A linear mixed‐effects model was used to compared MBME and MBSE activation at the voxel base. The paired t‐test was used to compare tSNR, activation z‐score, and volume, along with sensitivity, specificity, and DC between MBSE and MBME.

Results

While similar task activation was detected in the visual cortex, MBME showed higher activation volume and higher sensitivity compared with MBSE (P < 0.05). ICC was higher for MBME than MBSE, while there was a trend of differences in DC (P = 0.08).

Data Conclusion

MBME resulted in higher task fMRI activation volume and sensitivity without losing specificity. Reliability was also higher for MBME scans compared with MBSE.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy Stage

1
Effects of adolescent intermittent ethanol on hippocampal expression of glutamate homeostasis and astrocyte‐neuronal tethering proteins in male and female rats
Authors: Healey Kati L. , Kibble Sandra , Bell Amelia , Hodges Sierra , Swartzwelder H. Scott
Published: November 2020

Adolescent alcohol drinking is widely recognized as a significant public health problem, and evidence is accumulating that sufficient levels of consumption during this critical period of brain development have an enduring impact on neural and behavioral function. Recent studies have indicated that adolescent intermittent ethanol (AIE) exposure alters astrocyte function, astrocyte–neuronal interactions, and related synaptic regulation and activity. However, few of those studies have included female animals, and a broader assessment of AIE effects on the proteins mediating astrocyte‐mediated glutamate dynamics and synaptic function is needed. We measured synaptic membrane expression of several such proteins in the dorsal and ventral regions of the hippocampal formation (DH, VH) from male and female rats exposed to AIE or adolescent intermittent water. In the DH, AIE caused elevated expression of glutamate transporter 1 (GLT‐1) in both males and females, elevated postsynaptic density 95 expression in females only, and diminished NMDA receptor subunit 2A expression in males only. AIE and sex interactively altered ephrin receptor A4 (EphA4) expression in the DH. In the VH, AIE elevated expression of the cystine/glutamate antiporter and the glutamate aspartate transporter 1 (GLAST) in males only. Compared to males, female animals expressed lower levels of GLT‐1 in the DH and greater levels of ephrin receptor B6 (EphB6) in the VH, in the absence of AIE effects. These results support the growing literature indicating that adolescent alcohol exposure produces long‐lasting effects on astrocyte function and astrocyte‐neuronal interactions. The sex and subregion specificity of these effects have mechanistic implications for our understanding of AIE effects generally.
Comparisons on characteristics and mechanisms of the decadal megadroughts over eastern China between MCA and LIA
Authors: Xue Jiao , Ning Liang , Qin Yanmin , Chen Kefan , Yan Mi , Liu Jian
Published: November 2020

In this study, simulations of 13 all‐forcing experiments from the Community Earth System Model Last Millennium Ensemble (CESM‐LME) archive were used to investigate the different spatiotemporal characteristics and corresponding mechanisms of the decadal megadroughts over the eastern China during two typical periods in the past millennium, that is, Medieval Climate Anomaly (MCA) and Little Ice Age (LIA). The results show that there is no significant difference in either megadrought intensity or duration between the MCA and LIA, but there are significant differences in the megadrought frequencies. The frequency of megadroughts during the MCA is 1.44 times/hundred years, compared with 1.69 times/hundred years in LIA. Results from solar only sensitivity experiments and volcanic only sensitivity experiments show that this difference is mainly induced by the solar radiation. The mechanism analyses show that a spatial pattern of sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) resembling the positive Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO)‐like pattern have occurred simultaneously with the megadroughts during both the MCA and LIA. While, the megadroughts in MCA are strongly correlated with the strong PDO‐like SSTA patterns, and the megadroughts in LIA are strongly correlated with the weak PDO‐like SSTA patterns. In addition, the anomalous sea level pressure (SLP) field and wind field associate with the megadroughts during the MCA and LIA are consistent with the strengths of SSTA, with significant larger SLP and wind anomalies during the MCA than those during the LIA. Therefore, it can be concluded that the responses of the large‐scale atmospheric circulation patterns to SSTA are similar during these two typical periods, and the difference in the megadrought frequencies is due to the nonlinear response of the precipitation variability to the large‐scale atmospheric circulation patterns.
Simultaneous determination of capsid proteins in nine‐valent human papilloma virus vaccines by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Long Zhen , Nie Jianhui , Li Xiuling , Li Xiaoyu , Huang Weijin , Li Changkun , Li Yueqi , Huang Taohong
Published: November 2020

A liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed to determine nine types of capsid proteins simultaneously in nine‐valent human papillomavirus vaccines. Signature peptides were optimized in terms of specificity, repeatability, determination accuracy and sensitivity. As a result, three signature peptides per capsid protein were obtained. The linear calibration curves were achieved in the range of 11.6–373.6 nmol/L (R2 > 0.998). Compared to our previous liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method, the current method was more sensitive (3.18‐fold) and it can be used for quality evaluation of nine‐valent human papillomavirus vaccines, unlike the previous method, which could only be used for bivalent human papillomavirus vaccines. Then, they were utilized to determine nine types of capsid proteins in nine‐valent human papillomavirus vaccines from four different manufactures. Intraday and interday precision values for the determination of capsid proteins in nine‐valent human papillomavirus vaccines were less than 6.8 and 9.1%, respectively. Recovery rates of all capsid proteins investigated were in the range of 80–120%. In addition, the current assay was used for determination of free capsid protein in nine‐valent human papilloma virus vaccines, and the results were used to evaluate the adsorption rate of the adjuvant.
Parosmia is Associated with Relevant Olfactory Recovery After Olfactory Training
Authors: Liu David T. , Sabha Maha , Damm Michael , Philpott Carl , Oleszkiewicz Anna , Hähner Antje , Hummel Thomas
Published: November 2020

Objective/Hypothesis

This study aims to determine the association between parosmia and clinically relevant recovery of olfactory function in patients with post‐infectious olfactory dysfunction (PIOD) receiving olfactory training.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with PIOD that received olfactory training. Adult patients with the major complaint of quantitative smell loss were recruited and treated at several ENT clinics in German between 2008 and 2018. The outcome was based on the association between smell‐loss related factors (including parosmia and phantosmia) and clinically relevant changes in overall and subdimension olfactory function of threshold, discrimination, and identification using binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 153 participants with PIOD were included. Clinically relevant improvements in overall olfactory function were more likely in those that had lower baseline olfactory function. Relevant improvements in discrimination function were more likely in those that had lower baseline olfactory function and those that had parosmia at the initial visit. Similarly, relevant improvements in odor identification were more likely in those that had a lower baseline olfactory function and in those who had parosmia at the first visit. Clinically significant improvements in odor threshold were more likely in those who were older in age.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that the presence of parosmia is associated with clinically relevant recovery in olfactory discrimination and identification function in patients with PIOD receiving olfactory training.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:618–623, 2021
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Diabetes Mellitus Are Associated With Post–Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Renal Dysfunction: An Advancing Liver Therapeutic Approaches Group Study
Authors: Ge Jin , Lai Jennifer C. , Boike Justin Richard , German Margarita , Jest Nathaniel , Morelli Giuseppe , Spengler Erin , Said Adnan , Lee Alexander , Hristov Alexander , Desai Archita P. , Junna Shilpa , Pokhrel Bhupesh , Couri Thomas , Paul Sonali , Frenette Catherine , Christian‐Miller Nathaniel , Laurito Marcela , Verna Elizabeth C. , Rahim Usman , Goel Aparna , Das Arighno , Pine Stewart , Gregory Dyanna , VanWagner Lisa B. , Kolli Kanti Pallav ,   Advancing Liver Therapeutic Approaches (ALTA) Study Group
Published: November 2020

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an effective intervention for portal hypertensive complications, but its effect on renal function is not well characterized. Here we describe renal function and characteristics associated with renal dysfunction at 30 days post‐TIPS. Adults with cirrhosis who underwent TIPS at 9 hospitals in the United States from 2010 to 2015 were included. We defined “post‐TIPS renal dysfunction” as a change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (ΔeGFR) ≤−15 and eGFR ≤ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or new renal replacement therapy (RRT) at day 30. We identified the characteristics associated with post‐TIPS renal dysfunction by logistic regression and evaluated survival using adjusted competing risk regressions. Of the 673 patients, the median age was 57 years, 38% of the patients were female, 26% had diabetes mellitus, and the median MELD‐Na was 17. After 30 days post‐TIPS, 66 (10%) had renal dysfunction, of which 23 (35%) required new RRT. Patients with post‐TIPS renal dysfunction, compared with those with stable renal function, were more likely to have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD; 33% versus 17%; P = 0.01) and comorbid diabetes mellitus (42% versus 24%; P = 0.001). Multivariate logistic regressions showed NAFLD (odds ratio [OR], 2.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00‐4.17; P = 0.05), serum sodium (Na; OR, 1.06 per mEq/L; 95% CI, 1.01‐1.12; P = 0.03), and diabetes mellitus (OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.16‐3.61; P = 0.01) were associated with post‐TIPS renal dysfunction. Competing risk regressions showed that those with post‐TIPS renal dysfunction were at a higher subhazard of death (subhazard ratio, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.18‐2.56; P = 0.01). In this large, multicenter cohort, we found NAFLD, diabetes mellitus, and baseline Na associated with post‐TIPS renal dysfunction. This study suggests that patients with NAFLD and diabetes mellitus undergoing TIPS evaluation may require additional attention to cardiac and renal comorbidities before proceeding with the procedure.
Analysis of neural cell behaviour on anisotropic electrically conductive polymeric biodegradable scaffolds reinforced with carbon nanotubes
Authors: Ghosh Souvik , Shrivastava Ananya , Jha Pallavi , Roy Partha , Lahiri Debrupa
Published: November 2020

The advent of biocompatible and biodegradable scaffolds has opened up a plethora of possibilities in neural tissue engineering. An emerging approach to overcome some existing drawbacks of neural scaffold design and functioning is a natural conductive polymeric scaffold. It is analogous to the extracellular matrix and provides an environment conducive to neural growth. This study focuses on the fabrication of soft polymeric neural scaffold, reinforced with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in a chitosan matrix, for directional neuronal growth. The scaffolds were fabricated by varying the nanofiller content as 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0. wt%, which were aligned in the chitosan matrix by an alternating bias electric field and compared with their random counterpart. The uniform distribution of the nanofillers in the matrix, good combinatorial bonding, and the directional alignment of the MWCNTs resulted in enhancement of mechanical properties and electrical conductivity in comparison to scaffolds with randomly arranged reinforcements. Additionally, the degradation kinetics of the fabricated scaffolds was tuned to the regeneration regime of peripheral nerves. After physical characterization, the biocompatibility of the designed scaffolds was evaluated by culturing HT‐22 neuronal cells on the scaffolds. Along with biocompatibility, the suitability of anisotropic conductivity of the scaffolds was evaluated by the directional growth of cells cultured on aligned MWCNT–chitosan scaffold. The preferential direction of neurite growth achieved on chitosan‐aligned MWCNT films and the improved mechanical and electrical properties in the MWCNT alignment direction are very encouraging for their potential use in neural tissue engineering.
Comparison of Active and Passive Larval Sampling Gears in Monitoring Reproduction of Invasive Bigheaded Carps in Large-River Tributaries
Authors: Roth Daniel R. , Pesik Jordan J. , Effert-Fanta Eden L. , Wahl David H. , Colombo Robert E.
Published: November 2020

Silver Carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Bighead Carp H. nobilis, collectively known as bigheaded carps (BHC), are invasive fishes in the Mississippi River and surrounding basins. Increasing evidence suggests harmful impacts of BHC on native fisheries (e.g., competition). Monitoring the abundance of BHC is difficult with traditional fisheries gears, and few studies have evaluated early life stage sampling. Identifying the spawning locations of BHC through early life stage sampling has the ability to enhance management efforts by applying focus to areas that have potential to serve as population sources. We evaluated the performance of three gears in sampling larval BHC and native taxa within large-river tributaries in terms of abundance, community assemblage, and size structure. We sampled ichthyoplankton in tributaries with active (push net) and passive (drift net, light trap) gears from March through September 2016. Relative abundance of BHC was greatest in push nets followed by drift nets and was lowest in light traps. Native cyprinids and catostomids as well as BHC comprised a large portion of the total catch. Environmental and habitat characteristics (stream velocity, dissolved oxygen, and temperature) related to BHC reproduction influenced each gear’s ability to capture larval BHC, although relationships in final models were not significant. Taxonomic size selectivity existed among gears; in particular, larger BHC were collected in push nets relative to the other gears. Push nets were the most effective in sampling BHC, and remaining gears exhibited unique strengths. Although less effective than active push nets, drift nets proved useful for monitoring BHC in tributaries and may be advantageous in shallow systems with adequate flow. Light traps were ineffective at capturing BHC larvae in tributaries but may offer utility in lentic habitats or for native cyprinids. Our comparison serves as a guide for monitoring larval BHC in their invaded range and for detection in new areas, such as tributaries of the Great Lakes.
Predictors of poor mental health among nurses during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kim Son Chae , Quiban Carlota , Sloan Christine , Montejano Anna
Published: November 2020

Aims

To examine the impact of various factors affecting nurses' mental health during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

An online cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Registered nurses who graduated from a nursing school in Southern California, USA, participated in the study from 20 April–10 May 2020 (N = 320). Kendall's tau correlations and multivariate logistic regression procedures were performed with stress, anxiety and depression as outcome variables.

Results

Most nurses reported moderate/high stress (80.1%), while 43% and 26% reported moderate/severe anxiety and depression, respectively. COVID‐19 patient care was positively associated with moderate/severe high stress (OR = 2.25; p = .012) and moderate/severe anxiety (OR = 3.04; p < .001), whereas quarantine was associated with moderate/severe depression (OR = 2.68; p < .001). High levels of family functioning, resilience and spirituality predicted two‐ to sixfold lower odds of moderate/severe stress, anxiety or depression. High resilience, spirituality and family functioning appear to be good coping mechanisms for nurses against stress, anxiety and depression during the pandemic.
Legendre wavelet collocation method for fractional optimal control problems with fractional Bolza cost
Authors: Kumar Nitin , Mehra Mani
Published: November 2020

This paper exhibits a numerical method for solving general fractional optimal control problems involving a dynamical system described by a nonlinear Caputo fractional differential equation, associated with a fractional Bolza cost composed as the aggregate of a standard Mayer cost and a fractional Lagrange cost given by a Riemann–Liouville fractional integral. By using the Lagrange multiplier within the calculus of variations and by applying integration by part formula, the necessary optimality conditions are derived in terms of a nonlinear two‐point fractional‐order boundary value problem. An operational matrix of fractional order right Riemann–Liouville integration is proposed and by utilizing it, the obtained two‐point fractional‐order boundary value problem is reduced into the solution of an algebraic system. AnL2‐error estimate in the approximation of unknown variable by Legendre wavelet is derived and in the last, illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method.
Dual nature solutions for temperature‐dependent transport properties of nanofluid flow with entropy generation
Authors: Ahmad Shafiq , Ullah Naeem , Nadeem Sohail
Published: November 2020

Two‐dimensional stagnation‐point flow with variable viscosity over a nonlinear stretching/shrinking surface is investigated. Utilizing the second law of thermodynamics the entropy generation analysis is deliberated. Instantaneous impacts of heat generation coefficient, variable thermal conductivity, magnetohydrodynamics, chemical reaction, first order velocity slip, and variable mass diffusivity are also added to explain the salient feature of mass and heat transfer. Consuming the appropriate similarity transformation, the partial differential equations are changed to a system of ordinary differential equations, and a bvp4c function from Matlab is used for solution purposes. The dual nature of the problem is debated by finding the critical values corresponding the suction and stretching parameter. A parametric study on axial velocity, temperature filed, concentration distribution, and entropy profile has been conducted. The results obtained by our proposed numerical model illustrate a satisfying agreement with the existing result. It is found that the entropy generation is an increasing function of Brinkmann number, diffusive constant parameter, and Reynold number while it is diminishing for enhancing value of temperature difference parameter. Further it is noticed that the variable thermal conductivity parameter enhance the skin friction.
Strategies to manage weight during the holiday season among US adults: A descriptive study from the National Weight Control Registry
Authors: Olson KayLoni , Coffino Jaime A. , Thomas J. Graham , Wing Rena R.
Published: November 2020

Background

Holidays are challenging for weight control and are consistently associated with weight gain. Managing holiday weight gain may be especially difficult for individuals with higher body weight or a history of overweight/obesity. The current study evaluated how individuals with a history of successful weight loss plan for the holiday season and how the use of weight control strategies was associated with weight change.

Methods

A subgroup of participants in the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR) were asked to complete a survey before (November) and after the holidays (January). At pre‐holiday, participants reported height, weight, and weight goals for the holiday season (lose, maintain, minimize gains, or gain), and selected the top three weight control strategies they planned to use (from a list of 18). Post‐holiday, participants reported weight and how often (frequently, infrequently, or not at all) they used each of the 18 strategies throughout the holidays.

Results

Individuals who completed both surveys were included in the analysis (n = 683; 69% female, 93% white, 54.6 years [SD: 13.2], 26.9 kg/m2 [SD: 5.5]). Pre‐holiday, 64% of participants were currently trying to lose weight. Only 35% of the sample wanted to continue losing weight during the holiday season. The most common strategies individuals planned to use during the holiday season were evidence based (maintaining exercise, monitoring portions, tracking foods, and self‐weighing). Participants gained 0.66 kg (SD: 1.85) from pre‐ to post‐holiday and reported using an average of 12/18 strategies. A greater number of strategies were associated with less weight gain (F[1, 670] = 4.28, p = 0.04). Daily self‐weighing (p = 0.03) and prioritizing food choices (p = 0.02) were individually associated with less weight gain.

Discussion

Participants in the NWCR entered the holiday season with a variety of goals for their weight and used many different strategies to control their weight. Having a wider range of strategies may be helpful to navigate the challenges to weight control during the holidays.