bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing microglial gene expression in a model of secondary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Vainchtein Ilia D. , Alsema Astrid M. , Dubbelaar Marissa L. , Grit Corien , Vinet Jonathan , van Weering Hilmar R. J. , Al‐Izki Sarah , Biagini Giuseppe , Brouwer Nieske , Amor Sandra , Baker David , Eggen Bart J. L. , Boddeke Erik W. G. M. , Kooistra Susanne M.
Published: November 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common inflammatory, demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system in young adults. Chronic‐relapsing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (crEAE) in Biozzi ABH mice is an experimental model of MS. This crEAE model is characterized by an acute phase with severe neurological disability, followed by remission of disease, relapse of neurological disease and remission that eventually results in a chronic progressive phase that mimics the secondary progressive phase (SPEAE) of MS. In both MS and SPEAE, the role of microglia is poorly defined. We used a crEAE model to characterize microglia in the different phases of crEAE phases using morphometric and RNA sequencing analyses. At the initial, acute inflammation phase, microglia acquired a pro‐inflammatory phenotype. At the remission phase, expression of standard immune activation genes was decreased while expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism and tissue remodeling were increased. Chronic phase microglia partially regain inflammatory gene sets and increase expression of genes associated with proliferation. Together, the data presented here indicate that microglia obtain different features at different stages of crEAE and a particularly mixed phenotype in the chronic stage. Understanding the properties of microglia that are present at the chronic phase of EAE will help to understand the role of microglia in secondary progressive MS, to better aid the development of therapies for this phase of the disease.
Generalized models for quantifying laterality using functional transcranial Doppler ultrasound
Authors: Thompson Paul A. , Watkins Kate E. , Woodhead Zoe V. J. , Bishop Dorothy V. M.
Published: November 2022

We consider how analysis of brain lateralization using functional transcranial Doppler ultrasound (fTCD) data can be brought in line with modern statistical methods typically used in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Conventionally, a laterality index is computed in fTCD from the difference between the averages of each hemisphere's signal within a period of interest (POI) over a series of trials. We demonstrate use of generalized linear models (GLMs) and generalized additive models (GAM) to analyze data from individual participants in three published studies (N = 154, 73 and 31), and compare this with results from the conventional POI averaging approach, and with laterality assessed using fMRI (N = 31). The GLM approach was based on classic fMRI analysis that includes a hemodynamic response function as a predictor; the GAM approach estimated the response function from the data, including a term for time relative to epoch start (simple GAM), plus a categorical index corresponding to individual epochs (complex GAM). Individual estimates of the fTCD laterality index are similar across all methods, but error of measurement is lowest using complex GAM. Reliable identification of cases of bilateral language appears to be more accurate with complex GAM. We also show that the GAM‐based approach can be used to efficiently analyze more complex designs that incorporate interactions between tasks.
Solidification of electrically conducting liquid flow driven by shear and pressure gradients subject to viscous and Joule heating
Authors: Aljaghtham Mutabe , El Habashi Salah , Premnath Kannan , Alsulami Radi A.
Published: November 2022

Solidification of a liquid in motion driven by shear and pressure gradients occurs in many natural settings and technological applications. When the liquid is electrically conducting, its solidification rates can potentially be modulated by an imposed magnetic field. The shearing motion results in viscous dissipation and the Lorentz force induced by the magnetic field causes Joule heating of the fluid, which can influence the structure of the flow, thermal fields, and thereby the solidification process. In this study, a mathematical model is developed to study the combined effects of shear and pressure gradients in the presence of a magnetic field on the solidification of a liquid between two parallel plates, with one of them being insulated and under constant motion, and the other being cooled convectively and at rest. Under the quasi‐steady assumption, closed‐form semianalytical solutions are obtained for the instantaneous location of the solid–liquid interface, Nusselt number, and dimensionless power density as a function of various characteristic parameters such as the Hartmann number, pressure gradient parameter, Brinkman number, and Biot number. Furthermore, an interesting remelt or steady‐state condition for the interfacial location is derived as arising from the competing effects of the solid side heat flux and viscous dissipation and Joule heating on the liquid side. The newly derived analytical results are shown to reduce to the various classical results in the limiting cases. A detailed systematic study is performed by the numerical solution of the semianalytical formulation, and the effects of different characteristic parameters on the solidification process are discussed.
Thermal distribution analysis of rectangular fin considering multiboiling heat transfer modes
Authors: Sindhu Sundar , Gireesha Bijjanal Jayanna
Published: November 2022

In this investigation, a numerical method is used to compute the thermal distribution analysis of a rectangular fin with surface emissivity and internal heat generation. Here, the thermal conductivity, heat generation, emissivity at the surface, and coefficient of heat transfer depend on temperature linearly. The role of four distinct multiboiling heat transfer modes such as laminar film boiling (condensation), laminar convection, turbulent convection, and nucleate boiling are discussed in detail and the corresponding outcomes are displayed graphically. Isolated (insulated) and convective tip boundary conditions for the fin tip are employed in this study. The solution is obtained using shooting technique involving Runge Kutta Fehlberg method. It is emphasized that the thermal distribution shows a diminishing trend for the convective tip condition compared to the insulated tip. In addition to this, it is illustrated that laminar film boiling and laminar convection are two effective modes of heat transfer in comparison with turbulent convection and nucleate boiling for a finned surface in boiling liquids. The study on fin efficiency shows that fin efficiency increases with the increase in internal heat generation number.
Management of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH)
Authors: Luzzatto Lucio
Published: November 2022

PNH is a chronic hemolytic disorder due to an intrinsic red cell abnormality. There is no evidence that either prolonged administration of corticosteroids or chemotherapy are beneficial in PNH. On the other hand, patients can live with PNH for many years with supportive management. At the moment complement inhibitor therapy is indicated in most cases; and it is highly desirable that the current financial barriers to this therapy be overcome.
When is sociality congruent with self‐care?
Authors: Ratner Rebecca K. , Kim Nicole You Jeung , Wu Yuechen
Published: November 2022

Kumar and Epley (2023) argue that people underinvest in spending time, effort, and money on other people, and that consumers' own well‐being would improve from increased “sociality.” We pose two questions to enhance understanding of the relationship between sociality and efforts to benefit one's own well‐being: (1) when will other‐oriented consumption promote versus hinder consumers' own well‐being, and (2) what leads consumers to embrace versus forego efforts to improve their well‐being (i.e., self‐care) that does not involve sociality? We propose that the degree to which the consumer is concerned about incorporating others' preferences, the magnitude of resources involved, and the temporal dynamics of consumption will be relevant factors in addressing these two questions. Future research to explore the proposed three factors and other factors will be important for consumers who seek to improve their well‐being as well as marketers who seek to promote it.
Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and white matter microstructure: The importance of dimensional analyses and sex differences
Authors: Jones Scott A. , Nagel Bonnie J. , Nigg Joel T. , Karalunas Sarah L.
Published: November 2022

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD) has substantial heterogeneity in clinical presentation. A potentially important clue may be variation in brain microstructure. Using fractional anisotropy (FA), previous studies have produced equivocal results in relation to ADHD. This may be due to insufficient consideration of possible sex differences and ADHD's multi‐componential nature.

Methods

Using whole‐brain analyses, we investigated the association between FA and both ADHD diagnosis and ADHD symptom domains in a well‐characterized, ADHD (n = 234; 32% female youth) and non‐ADHD (n = 177; 52% female youth), case‐control cohort (ages 7–12). Sex‐specific effects were tested.

Results

No ADHD group differences were found using categorical assessment of ADHD without consideration of moderators. However, dimensional analyses found total symptoms were associated with higher FA in the superior corona radiata. Further, inattention symptoms were associated with higher FA in the corpus callosum and ansa lenticularis, and lower FA in the superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), after controlling for overlap with hyperactivity‐impulsivity. Hyperactivity‐impulsivity symptoms were associated with higher FA in the SLF, and lower FA in the superior cerebellar peduncles, after control for overlap with inattention. Meanwhile, both categorical and dimensional analyses revealed ADHD‐by‐sex interactions (voxel‐wise p < .01). Girls with ADHD had higher FA, but boys with ADHD had lower FA (or no effect), compared to their same‐sex peers, in the bilateral anterior corona radiata. Further, higher ADHD symptom severity was associated with higher FA in girls, but lower FA in boys, in the anterior and posterior corona radiata and cerebral peduncles.

Conclusions

ADHD symptom domains appear to be differentially related to white matter microstructure, highlighting the multi‐componential nature of the disorder. Further, sex differences will be crucial to consider in future studies characterizing ADHD‐related differences in white matter microstructure.
Huế dental students’ use and perception of an online dental learning platform: A pilot study
Authors: Li Alice Z. , Khan Mariam , Nguyen Nicholas T. , Breitman Leela , Luca Jennifer , Van Doren Emily , Gia Kieu Ngan Nguyen , Thị Hoàng Yến Nguyễn , Dang Khoa , Tan Tai Tran , Taylor Russell H.
Published: November 2022

Purpose/Objectives

Online educational materials are growing in use, and dental students worldwide can benefit from higher quality and more accessible online supplemental resources. This study was created to evaluate the learning resources non‐English speaking dental students desire and to pilot My Dental Key (MDK), an English, evidence‐based, online dental educational platform.

Methods

Third to sixth year dental students at the Huế University of Medicine and Pharmacy were asked to pilot MDK over a 5‐week period and were invited to answer three surveys throughout the study. A preliminary survey was given to gauge the participants’ (n= 209) preferences regarding the use of English‐based dental educational resources. Participants (n= 58) completed a presurvey prior to accessing MDK. After the 5‐week period, participants (n= 38) were given a postsurvey to evaluate the platform's effectiveness as a supplemental educational resource.

Results

Overall, we found that: (1) students desire credible online supplemental resources in addition to current resources provided by their school, (2) the multimodal content that MDK provides is a strength that bridges language barriers (3) participants perceived that the content on MDK would help them in class and when treating patients.

Conclusions

Improving the quality of online supplemental dental resources will have the capability to progress the current educational landscape, and further resources should be created to best serve the global dental community.
Generalized Modules for Membrane Antigens (GMMA), an outer membrane vesicle‐based vaccine platform, for efficient viral antigen delivery
Authors: Hu Kai , Palmieri Elena , Samnuan Karnyart , Ricchetti Beatrice , Oldrini Davide , McKay Paul F. , Wu Guanghui , Thorne Leigh , Fooks Anthony R. , McElhinney Lorraine M. , Goharriz Hooman , Golding Megan , Shattock Robin J. , Micoli Francesca
Published: November 2022

Vaccine platforms enable fast development, testing, and manufacture of more affordable vaccines. Here, we evaluated Generalized Modules for Membrane Antigens (GMMA), outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) generated by genetically modified Gram‐negative bacteria, as a vaccine platform for viral pathogens. Influenza A virus hemagglutinin (HA), either physically mixed with GMMA (HA+STmGMMA mix), or covalently linked to GMMA surface (HA‐STmGMMA conjugate), significantly increased antigen‐specific humoral and cellular responses, with HA‐STmGMMA conjugate inducing further enhancement than HA+STmGMMA mix. HA‐STmGMMA conjugate protected mice from lethal challenge. The versatility for this platform was confirmed by conjugation of rabies glycoprotein (RABVG) onto GMMA through the same method. RABVG+STmGMMA mix and RABVG‐STmGMMA conjugate exhibited similar humoral and cellular response patterns and protection efficacy as the HA formulations, indicating relatively consistent responses for different vaccines based on the GMMA platform. Comparing to soluble protein, GMMA was more efficiently taken up in vivo and exhibited a B‐cell preferential uptake in the draining lymph nodes (LNs). Together, GMMA enhances immunity against viral antigens, and the platform works well with different antigens while retaining similar immunomodulatory patterns. The findings of our study imply the great potential of GMMA‐based vaccine platform also against viral infectious diseases.
Pathogenesis and histological changes of nephropathy associated with COVID‐19
Authors: Lin Lirong , Deng Junhui , Tan Wei , Li Jie , Wu Zhifeng , Zheng Luquan , Yang Jurong
Published: November 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) can cause damage to multiple organ, not only to the lungs, but also to the kidneys. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) can cause acute and chronic kidney disease through direct viral infection, indirect injury, and vaccination‐related injury. Like lung injury, kidney injury is also an important aspect affecting the severity and prognosis of SARS‐CoV‐2. This article summarizes the pathogenesis, pathological manifestations, and clinical features of SARS‐CoV‐2 direct or indirect renal injury. Including direct injury, indirect injury, special comorbidities (receiving kidney transplantation and chronic kidney disease), and vaccine‐related renal injury, and exploring the possible therapeutic effect of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 therapy on renal injury. The purpose is to provide reference for understanding COVID‐19‐related renal injury, guiding clinical and pathological diagnosis and treatment, and evaluating prognosis.
Performance of the Weather Research and Forecasting model in simulating climate over northern Asia
Authors: Bai Rui , Sun Jianqi , Yu Entao , Yu Shui
Published: November 2022

High‐resolution simulation is important for understanding climate change and its impact over regions with complex terrain. Northern Asia (NA) is such a region and sensitive to global warming. However, the performance of the regional model over NA is still unclear. In this study, we conducted a two‐decade‐long high‐resolution (25 km) simulation over NA using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model forced by the ERA‐Interim reanalysis and then evaluated the performance of WRF against the observations. The results show that the WRF simulation, set up with selections of the physical schemes, can reasonably reproduce the spatial and temporal features of surface air temperature and precipitation over NA. In addition, the WRF simulation can add more regional details on the climate features than the ERA‐Interim data, especially over the NA regions with complex terrain. The spatial‐pattern correlation coefficient of summer precipitation over NA between the WRF simulation and observations is higher than that of the ERA‐Interim data. WRF can reasonably reproduce the annual cycles of precipitation. Moreover, the observed year‐to‐year variations in summer surface air temperature and precipitation over most NA subregions could be generally captured by the WRF. In conclusion, although systemic model bias still exists, the evaluations in this study indicate that WRF shows reasonable performance in a high‐resolution simulation of climate over NA, consequently providing a scientific basis for future simulation studies over the region.
Pre‐heated blades for harvesting baby‐leaves reduce the risk of Escherichia coli internalization in leaves
Authors: Guerra Simona , Michelotti Martina , Signorini Sofia , Rossi Giuseppe , Procopio Tiziana , Truschi Stefania , Lenzi Anna , Marvasi Massimiliano
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Pathogenic enterobacteria can travel through the plant vascular bundles by penetrating from cuts and persisting into ready‐to‐eat leafy greens. Because the cutting site is the main point of entrance and uptake, we tested how different cutting strategies can reduce bacterial internalization in leaves. Horizontal cuts at the base of the leaves were performed with two different types of tools: the first with a scalpel (by pulling the blade) and the second with a scissor‐action that has blades that cuts by gliding against a thicker blade. Scissor‐action generally makes closer border cuts. Blades of both types of tools have worked at 25 °C and 200 °C. The present study aimed to determine how these different types of cuts and temperatures affected bacterial uptake in leaves. Experiments were repeated on different plant genotypes and at different wilting stages.

RESULTS

Our findings showed that cutting baby‐leaves with a scissor action at 200 °C significantly reduced the bacterial uptake compared to the not heated (which simulates a mechanized lettuce harvester). The most effective cutting treatments for reducing bacterial uptake were in the order: scissor 200 °C > scissor 25 °C > scalpel 200 °C > scalpel 25 °C. The scissor heated at 200 °C also prevented bacterial uptake on wilted baby‐leaves.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present study could provide a further contribution in terms of safety during harvest and suggest that a pre‐heated blade supports safety during harvest of leafy greens. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Simultaneous determination of cordycepin and its metabolite 3′‐deoxyinosine in rat whole blood by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q Exactive hybrid quadrupole orbitrap high‐resolution accurate mass spectrometry and its application to accurate pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Qi Shenglan , Guan Huida , Wang Yongli , Fang Qinqin , Cheng Xuemei , Liu Ping , Wei Hai , Liu Wei , Wang Changhong
Published: November 2022

Cordycepin from Cordyceps possesses excellent pharmacological properties, including anti‐inflammation and anti‐tumor effects, therefore representing a potential alternative medicine. However, doubts about the pharmacokinetic results of cordycepin had been raised in the previous study due to its rapid deamination. The organic solvent methanol was immediately added to terminate the degradation of cordycepin in anticoagulated blood samples and enable the accurate evaluation of pharmacokinetics in vivo. A sensitive and selective ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q Exactive hybrid quadrupole orbitrap high‐resolution accurate mass spectrometry method was developed and validated to simultaneously determine cordycepin and its deamination metabolite 3′‐deoxyinosine using 2‐chloroadenosine as an internal standard in rat whole blood. The calibration curves of cordycepin and 3′‐deoxyinosine showed excellent linearity within the concentration range of 1.05–10 000.00 ng/ml with acceptable accuracy, precision, selectivity, recovery, matrix effect, and stability. This method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of cordycepin and its metabolite in rat blood. The effect of the adenosine deaminase inhibitor erythro‐9‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐nonyl) adenine hydrochloride on the pharmacokinetics of cordycepin was investigated. In summary, the reliable pharmacokinetic parameters of cordycepin and its deamination metabolite 3′‐deoxyinosine in rat blood were successfully elucidated. Erythro‐9‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐nonyl) adenine hydrochloride considerably prolonged the half‐life of cordycepin in vivo.
Realizing High‐Power Laser Lighting: Artfully Importing Micrometer BN into Ce: GdYAG Phosphor‐in‐Glass Film
Authors: Wang Luhan , Liu Jiawei , Xu Li , Bao Shuyang , Wang Yu , Zhang Jiangdan , Liang Xiaojuan , Xiang Weidong
Published: November 2022

Phosphor‐in‐glass (PiG) film has been proposed as an ideal color converter in laser diodes (LDs) lighting for its advantages of outstanding thermal conductivity (TC) and superior efficiency. Herein, yellow‐emitting Y1.31Ce0.09Gd1.6Al5O12 (Ce: GdYAG)‐PiG composite films are successfully elaborated through a practical blade‐coating approach. Systematical studies are performed on its microstructure, thermal stability, and luminescence performance pumped by LDs. Noteworthy, the highest internal quantum efficiency of film (94.2%) retains 97.1% of the raw phosphors (97%). Particularly, by further introducing micrometer BN with high TC as light scattering center to enhance heat dissipation and increase porosity, the thermal and optical properties of the sample are greatly improved. The luminescence intensity of the sample at 423 K is increased to 1.8 times that at 298 K. The thermal diffusion (TD) and TC of the sample are increased from 1.571 to 4.227 mm2 s−1 and 6.4 to 13.0 W m−1 K−1, respectively. At the same time, the maximum saturation threshold under laser irradiation of Ce: GdYAG + micrometer BN composite film is raised from 3.12 to 5.42 W mm−2 and 260.6 to 354.1 lm, respectively. The combination of excellent optical and thermal performances, coupled with facile and low‐cost synthetic strategy, could push forward the practical application in solid‐state laser lighting.
Linear Regulating of Polymer Acceptor Aggregation with Short Alkyl Chain Units Enhances All‐Polymer Solar Cells’ Efficiency
Authors: Qiu Jinjing , Liu Miao , Wang Yang , Xia Xinxin , Liu Qi , Guo Xia , Lu Xinhui , Zhang Maojie
Published: November 2022

The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of all‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs) has ascended rapidly arising from the development of polymerized small‐molecule acceptor materials. However, numerous insulating long alkyl chains, which ensure the solubility of the polymer, result in inferior aggregation and charge mobility. Herein, this study proposes a facile random copolymerization strategy of two small molecule acceptor units with different lengths of alkyl side chains and synthesizes a series of polymer acceptors PYT‐EHx, wherexis the percentage of the short alkyl chain units. The aggregation strength and charge mobility of the acceptors rise linearly with increasing the proportion of short alkyl chain units. Thus, the PYT‐EH20 reaches balanced aggregation with the star polymer donor PBDB‐T, resulting in optimal morphology, fastest carrier transport, and reduced recombination and energy loss. Consequently, the PYT‐EH20‐based device yields a 14.8% PCE, a 16% improvement over the control PYT‐EH0‐based device, accompanied by an increase in open‐circuit voltage (Voc), short‐circuit current density (Jsc), and fill factor (FF). This work demonstrates that the random copolymerization strategy with short alkyl chain insertion is an effective avenue for developing high‐performance polymer acceptors, which facilitates further advances in the efficiency of all‐PSCs.
Stability and bifurcation analysis in a diffusive predator–prey model with delay and spatial average
Authors: Song Yongli , Shi Qingyan
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we study the effect of spatial average and time delay on the dynamics of a diffusive predator–prey model under the Neumann boundary condition. Compared to the model without spatial average, the delay‐induced Hopf bifurcation at the first critical value of delay is nonhomogeneous due to the joint effects of spatial average and delay, and spatiotemporal patterns arise. Also, we show that the spatially homogeneous and nonhomogeneous periodic patterns may switch for different bifurcation parameter values. Moreover, a double Hopf bifurcation occurs at the intersection point of the homogeneous and nonhomogeneous Hopf bifurcation curves, and spatially nonhomogeneous quasi‐periodic patterns can be observed via numerical simulations near the double Hopf bifurcation point. The normal form algorithm for the spatially nonhomogeneous/homogeneous Hopf bifurcation is derived for a general reaction‐diffusion system with spatial average and delay.
An analytical self‐consistent method for different forms of the Blasius equation
Authors: Karimdoost Yasuri Amir
Published: November 2022

Nonlinear Blasius equation of boundary layer plays a crucial role in different physics and engineering fields. For nearly a century, researchers have been trying to find a convergent and closed analytical solution of the Blasius equation. In this paper, an analytical self‐consistent method (ASCM) is presented to solve this equation. Then, the method was implemented in other forms of Blasius equation, that is, Sakiadis flow and shrinking sheet problem. The analytical solutions obtained show the success of ASCM and agree closely with the corresponding numerical results. The reliability and efficiency of the proposed method are demonstrated on the numerical experiments.
Patient preferences and decision‐making when considering surgery for musculoskeletal disorders: A mixed methods systematic review
Authors: Healy Sarah , Dorflinger Eric , Michaleff Zoe A. , Marks Darryn
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The burden of Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) is large. Surgery is an important management option but the factors that shape patients' surgical decisions are not well understood. As prior reviews have explored only single data types or conditions, a mixed methods appraisal across the musculoskeletal spectrum was undertaken.

Methods

A mixed‐methods systematic, convergent segregated approach was used, with PubMed, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINHAL), Embase and PsycINFO searched to identify studies of adult patients' decisions about whether to undergo surgery. A narrative synthesis was conducted, with identified themes integrated across quantitative, qualitative and mixed‐methods studies.

Results

Forty‐six studies were included (24 quantitative, 19 qualitative and three mixed methods), with four decision‐making themes identified (symptoms, sociodemographic and health factors, information and perceptions). Decision‐making involves a complex interaction of individual sociodemographic, health and symptom information, integrated with individual perceptions of candidacy and surgical expectations. While most studies investigated hip and knee surgery, across all included conditions, patients are more likely to favour surgery if symptoms and/or dysfunction are higher, and if perceptions of surgical candidacy and processes (outcomes, inconvenience, and risk) are favourable. Other factors including age, general health, race, financial context, professional and non‐professional communication, and information sources also impact decision‐making but exert a less consistent impact upon the propensity to prefer surgery.

Conclusion

Patients are more likely to choose surgery for MSD when they have higher levels of symptoms or dysfunction and positive perceptions of surgical suitability and expectations. Other factors important to individuals, have a less consistent impact upon the propensity to prefer surgery. These findings have potential to aid the efficient referral of patients to orthopaedics. More research is needed to validate these findings across the spectrum of MSD.
Flexible Printed OLED TV has Potential to Create a New Application Market
Authors: Lee Jueng Gil (James) , Gao Zhuo , Fu Dong , Yan Xiaolin
Published: November 2022

The next generation of premium TVs could enable a smarter way of thinking, living, and working.
Reconfigurable and Reusable Soft Modular Blocks Assembly
Authors: Yoon Jaeyoung , Kim Hayun , Hong Yongtaek
Published: November 2022

Soft electronics can be applied to various areas where new form factors are desired, making them attractive to academia and industry alike.
Untargeted GC–MS metabolomics to identify and classify bioactive compounds in Combretum platypetalum subsp. oatesii (Rolfe) Exell (Combretaceae)
Authors: Umoh Sampson D. , Bojase Gomotsang , Masesane Ishmael B. , Majinda Runner T. , Sichilongo Kwenga F.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Combretum platypetalum is used in traditional African healing practices against different infections. Unfortunately, no scientific knowledge of its phytochemical composition exists, except for the isolation of two compounds from the leaves. Scientific study has been limited to the leaves only, despite the applications of stems and roots in traditional medicine practice and natural product drug discovery programs.

Objective

Omics was applied to identify and classify different volatile and semivolatile bioactive compounds in the leaf, stem, and root parts of C. platypetalum. The thermal stability of the plant constituents at 60–65°C extraction temperature by Soxhlet and maceration at room temperature on the type, class, and concentration of compounds in the leaf was further investigated.

Method

A GC–MS untargeted metabolomics approach, automated deconvolution by the Automated Mass Spectral Deconvolution and Identification System (AMDIS) for GC–MS data, preprocessing by Metab R, and multivariate statistical data analysis were employed in this study.

Results

A total of 97 phytoconstituents, including 17 bioactive compounds belonging to the terpenoids, flavonoids, long‐chain fatty acids, and other unclassified structural arrangements distributed across C. platypetalum, were identified for the first time. A correlation (r = 0.782; P = 0.000) between Soxhlet and maceration extraction methods relative to resolved chromatographic peak areas of metabolites was established.

Conclusion

Findings corroborate the reported bio‐investigation of its leaf extracts, its traditional uses, and previous findings from the Combretum genus. The results substantiate the possible applications of C. platypetalum in natural product drug discovery and provide a guide for future investigations.
Associations of prenatal exposure to non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs with preterm birth and small for gestational age infants among women with autoimmune disorders
Authors: Delker Erin , Kelly Ann , Chambers Christina , Johnson Diana , Bandoli Gretchen
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Estimate associations between prenatal non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory (NSAID) exposure and preterm birth and small for gestational age among women with autoimmune conditions.

Methods

Participants were enrolled in the MotherToBaby cohort and had an autoimmune disorder and singleton live birth >20 weeks gestation (n = 2007). We characterized self‐reported NSAID exposure over gestation for timing, duration, and average daily dose. Outcomes were preterm birth (i.e., <37 weeks' gestation) and small for gestational age infants (SGA; <10th percentile birthweight). We used Poisson regression to estimate associations between NSAID exposure and study outcomes adjusting for demographics, co‐use of other medications (Model 1), and disease severity at baseline (Model 2). Secondarily, we considered the role of acetaminophen use by individually matching NSAID users to controls on cumulative dose of acetaminophen exposure.

Results

Overall, 15% of women reported NSAID use in pregnancy, with most use in the first trimester. No NSAID use exposure variables were associated with risk of preterm birth. Any NSAID use was associated with 1.7 (95% CI 1.2, 2.5) times greater risk of SGA and this estimate was attenuated to 1.5 (95% CI 1.0, 2.3) after adjustment for baseline disease severity. NSAID exposure in the first trimester was most strongly associated with SGA. After matching on acetaminophen exposure, associations between any NSAID use and preterm birth and SGA were 0.9 (95% CI 0.6, 1.4) and 1.8 (95% CI 1.1, 2.9).

Conclusions

NSAID use in pregnancy is associated with SGA but not preterm birth. Future research should explore mechanisms that may explain these findings. Future research must also consider alternative explanations for these associations.
The monkeypox virus: A public health challenge threatening Africa
Authors: Manirambona Emery , Musa Shuaibu Saidu , Shomuyiwa Deborah Oluwaseun , Salam Feruzi Abdu , John Okesanya Olalekan , Dinyo Daniel Garang Aluk , Haruna Usman Abubakar , Sow Alhaji Umar , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Ezie Kengo Nathan , Samai Mohamed , Aziato Lydia
Published: November 2022

On 23 July 2022, the World Health Organization reported monkeypox cases in over 75 countries and, as a result, declared the virus a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Despite Africa being the centre of the zoonotic disease evolution, its healthcare systems have not provided optimum attention to the problem. The African healthcare system is under the threat of a repeat of the situation that transpired during the COVID‐19 pandemonium if stringent measures are not implemented immediately. Lessons learned from the COVID‐19 pandemic should inform emergency preparedness and response from African countries. Concerted and sustainable efforts can be achieved by reviewing and redesigning strategic preparedness plans for testing and vaccination as in previous pandemics. Africa needs to drive this response with collaboration and a united response, and with the use of strategic communication and a sense of urgency. Africa should prioritise access to available vaccines and invest in systems development for local vaccine production. In this article, we argue that monkeypox virus has serious public health implications in Africa and the region.
Chemical mechanism and atmospheric degradation of C4F9N initiated by OH radical: Ab initio kinetic exploration
Authors: Zhao Jun , Wang Yongjin , Zhou Biao , Bian Huiting
Published: November 2022

This work presents a thoroughgoing theoretical study on the OH‐initiated combustion chemical kinetics and atmospheric degradation mechanism of C4F9N by employing high‐level quantum chemical methods and RRKM/master‐equation theory. Stationary points on potential energy surface were cautiously investigated at B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) level for geometry optimizations, and thereby their single‐point energies were refined by applying CCSD(T)/6‐311++G(d,p) method. Based on quantum calculations, kinetics and branching ratios for the major channels were predicted within 300–3000 K and 0.01–100 atm by solving the RRKM/master‐equations. The OH addition to C4F9N generating M1 dominates the overall kinetics at low temperatures. Subsequently, its two β‐scission channels of CC bonds to CF3CF2NCF(OH) + CF3 and CF2NCF(OH)CF3 + CF3 become competitive and play a lead role in whole C4F9N + OH system at the corresponding high temperatures and elevated pressures. The CF3 radical generated prompts these two routes to potentially have the significant contribution to flame inhibition in actual applications. Additionally, the complex degradation pathways of C4F9N were also looked into by successively reacting with various oxides, including OH, O2, NO, and HO2, to finally generate the removal products CF3CF2N(OOH)CF(OH)CF3, CF3CFO, and CF3CF2NO. The atmospheric lifetime of C4F9N was evaluated as 49 years regarding to the kinetic for one step addition of OH radical.
Teacher expectations in the early primary grades: A scoping review
Authors: Timmons Kristy , Pyle Angela , Danniels Erica , Cowan Emily , McCann Allison
Published: November 2022

Teachers are the single most important in‐school factor affecting student learning outcomes. As a result, researchers and policy makers are particularly interested in the ways that teacher‐level factors influence the learning opportunities that teachers provide in their classrooms. A growing body of research suggests that the expectations a teacher sets for individuals and groups of students can significantly affect the learning opportunities that are provided to them. This is highly problematic, especially since teacher expectations can be inaccurate evaluations of student abilities and teacher expectations differentially affect the learning outcomes of racialised students as well as children living in poverty. Much of the research base regarding teacher expectations has focused on upper elementary and secondary grades with little research focus on the ways that teacher expectations are formed and impact children in the first years of formal schooling. Given the potential impact of sustained teacher expectation effects, an in‐depth review of teacher expectation research in the early primary grades is warranted. This study uses a scoping review methodology (H. Arksey and L. O’Malley, ‘Scoping Studies: Towards a Methodological Framework, International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 2005, 8(1), 19–32) to analyse research on teacher expectations in the early primary grades. Five themes encapsulate the scope of research published from 2000–2021: (1) teacher expectations of school readiness skills, (2) factors that influence the formation of teacher expectations, (3) teacher expectation effects, (4) stability of teacher expectations, and (5) intervention studies. This paper presents the current state of knowledge surrounding expectations in the early primary grades, as well as highlights challenges in need of further research.
Intertribal conflict, educational development and education crisis in Yemen: A call for saving education
Authors: Taher Anef , Khan Zafar , Alduais Ahmed , Muthanna Abdulghani
Published: November 2022

The current political conflict and economic crisis have impacted all aspects of life in Yemen, especially intertribal conflict, which plays a significant role in hindering educational development. In this study, we measure the impact of this conflict on the educational infrastructure, students and teachers' behaviour, and educational development as perceived by students, teachers and administrators. We collected data from 384 respondents: 162 teachers, 163 students and 59 administrative staff in the Aden and Taiz governorates. We also conducted 18 structured interviews with stakeholders from local authorities. The results indicate that: (1) educational infrastructure in Yemen has changed from a poor to a damaged status because of the intertribal conflict; (2) educational development in Yemen is going backward because of the current political conflict and economic crisis; (3) violence being exercised during this conflict has transferred to high school students, teachers and administration staff; and (4) the educational infrastructure is either bombed and attacked by the Arab (international) coalition or used as military bases by the different parties of the conflict.
Exploring characterizing factors and mechanisms of citizens' water literacy to promote sustainable water use: A grounded systems analysis method
Authors: Tian Kang , Wang Yanrong , Chen Annan , Yao Jia
Published: November 2022

Improving citizens' water literacy level has gradually become one of the key elements to solve or alleviate water problems, which is of great significance in building a social water security system and promoting the harmonious development of man and nature. A fusion method—grounded systems analysis based on grounded theory and event systems theory is proposed in this study, which is used to explore the representation factors of water literacy and construct the main category chain through reverse tracking interview data and revealing each factor's mechanism. The research results show that: After encoding the original data, the water literacy characterization factor system including 4 main categories, 12 key categories, and 110 conceptualized sentences was obtained. The interaction between water knowledge and other main categories has a positive impact. There is no apparent direct relationship between water skills and water attitude, however, it can affect the implementation of water behavior. Water attitude can positively influence water behavior and has a moderating effect on each main category. The research conclusions can provide theoretical and decision‐making references for water literacy research, exploration, and practical work.
Highly Flexible K‐Intercalated MnO2/Carbon Membrane for High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Battery Cathode
Authors: Yang Jie , Yao Ge , Li Zhiqiang , Zhang Yuhang , Wei Lingzhi , Niu Helin , Chen Qianwang , Zheng Fangcai
Published: November 2022

The layered MnO2 is intensively investigated as one of the most promising cathode materials for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs), but its commercialization is severely impeded by the challenging issues of the inferior intrinsic electronic conductivity and undesirable structural stability during the charge–discharge cycles. Herein, the lab‐prepared flexible carbon membrane with highly electrical conductivity is first used as the matrix to generate ultrathin δ‐MnO2 with an enlarged interlayer spacing induced by the K+‐intercalation to potentially alleviate the structural damage caused by H+/Zn2+ co‐intercalation, resulting in a high reversible capacity of 190 mAh g−1 at 3 A g−1 over 1000 cycles. The in situ/ex‐situ characterizations and electrochemical analysis confirm that the enlarged interlayer spacing can provide free space for the reversible deintercalation/intercalation of H+/Zn2+ in the structure of δ‐MnO2, and H+/Zn2+ co‐intercalation mechanism contributes to the enhanced charge storage in the layered K+‐intercalated δ‐MnO2. This work provides a plausible way to construct a flexible carbon membrane‐based cathode for high‐performance AZIBs.
Proxy variable estimation of productivity and efficiency
Authors: Tsionas Mike G. , Kumbhakar Subal C.
Published: November 2022

We model productivity and inefficiency jointly, instead of modeling and estimating either only productivity or only inefficiency with many variable and quasi‐fixed inputs. In the first model, we use a multi‐step procedure. We use the proxy variable method based on the first‐order condition (FOC) of expected profit maximization with respect to the single variable input to take care of the endogeneity problem arising from both productivity and inefficiency. To separate mean inefficiency from mean productivity we assume them nonparametric functions of different sets of exogenous variables. In the second model, we consider a novel system consisting of the production function and the FOCs of expected profit maximization for the multiple variable inputs. Distributional assumptions are made on all the random errors associated with the production function, the FOCs, productivity, and inefficiency functions in the second model. We use the Colombian food manufacturing data as an application of our model.
Powerful nonparametric checks for parametric single‐index quantile models with missing responses
Authors: Yuan Liangliang , Liu Wenhui , Zi Xuemin , Wang Zhaojun
Published: November 2022

This paper considers the lack‐of‐fit test of parametric single‐index quantile models when the response variable is missing at random. The model's coefficients are estimated by an estimation method suitable for the quantile regression coefficients of the missing data. Simultaneously, an algorithm for solving the central subspace of the multidimensional quantile regression model with missing responses is proposed. Based on the central quantile regression subspace, we construct two‐dimensional reduction adaptive‐to‐model test statistics suitable for randomly missing response variables to avoid the curse of dimensionality. Under the null hypothesis and local alternative hypothesis, the asymptotic properties of the test statistics are obtained. The proposed testing methods are shown to be consistent and able to detect local alternative hypothetical models converging to the null model at the rate of order
. A consistent bootstrap method is proposed to determine the critical values, and its asymptotic properties are established. The simulation results show that the proposed method is superior to existing methods in terms of both empirical size and power in the case of multidimensional and even high‐dimensional covariables. The ACTG Protocol 175 data set is analyzed to demonstrate the application of the testing procedures. Supplementary materials for this article are available online.
Crafting statistical analysis plans: A cross‐discipline approach
Authors: Cressman Kimberly A. , Sharp Julia L.
Published: November 2022

Developing a plan for data analysis at the beginning of a study is an important practice that is underutilized in many scientific fields. Several funding agencies and journals now require submission of statistical analysis plans in advance of scientific studies, particularly in the clinical sciences. Even when a plan is not required, it can be advantageous to the scientific process by improving reproducibility. An analysis plan allows researchers to organize their knowledge about their research questions and experimental design to more easily recognize and choose the appropriate statistical analyses. An analysis plan provides a roadmap for the analyses: Researchers can think through potential statistical decisions (e.g. to transform or not to transform? how to handle missing or censored data?) in advance and thoroughly document the justifications and trade‐offs for their intended analyses. Such decisions are not influenced by data when made before data collection, thus preventing pitfalls like p‐hacking, HARKing and non‐replicability of results. We describe a general framework for crafting an analysis plan—including essential components of any plan—and provide an example template that can be used by researchers. The analysis plan framework is presented for broad appeal to experienced statisticians, quantitative researchers and everyone in between.
Aligning English Language Proficiency Assessments to Standards: Conceptual and Technical Issues
Authors: Wolf Mikyung Kim , Bailey Alison L. , Ballard Laura
Published: November 2022

Alignment between standards and assessments is a fundamental component of the larger effort to ensure appropriate and fair use of standards‐based assessments and achievement of successful standards‐based reform. This article focuses on conceptual and technical issues as well as potential strategies in evaluating alignment between large‐scale, standardized English language proficiency assessments and English language proficiency standards in the U.S. K‐12 education context, as these assessments are used in high‐stakes decisions about English language learners. Areas for future research are also discussed.