bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust H∞ sliding mode control scheme for uncertain fractional stochastic systems: Nonlinear analysis and design
Authors: Parvizian Majid , Khandani Khosro
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the
sliding mode control (SMC) design for fractional stochastic systems. We study a very general category of stochastic systems that are nonlinear and driven by fractional Brownian motion (fBm). A robust
SMC scheme is presented for a fractional stochastic model with external disturbance, state‐ and disturbance‐dependent noise, and uncertainties, which ensures that the closed‐loop system is stochastically stable. We propose a novel sliding surface and then prove its reachability in the state space. Furthermore, the conditions for the stochastic stability of the sliding motion are derived via nonlinear Hamilton–Jacobi (HJ)‐type inequalities. In addition, an
SMC method is developed for a special class of fractional stochastic models, and two sets of linear matrix inequality (LMI) conditions are obtained, which are sufficient for stochastic stability. Eventually, the validity of the results is validated via a simulation example.
Antifungal Activity, Structure‐Activity Relationship and Molecular Docking Studies of 1,2,4‐Triazole Schiff Base Derivatives
Authors: Dong Yangming , Li Moucui , Hao Yun , Feng Yunrui , Ren Yinghui , Ma Haixia
Published: February 2023

Fourteen novel Schiff base compounds (AS‐1∼AS‐14) containing 5‐amino‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐carboxylic acid and substituted benzaldehyde were successfully synthesized, and their structures were verified by melting point, elemental analysis (EA) and spectroscopic techniques (Fourier Transform Infra‐Red (FT‐IR) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)). In vitro hyphal measurements were used to investigate the antifungal activities of the synthesised compounds against Wheat gibberellic, Maize rough dwarf and Glomerella cingulate. The preliminary studies indicated that all compounds had good inhibitory effect on Wheat gibberellic and Maize rough dwarf, among which the compounds of AS‐1 (7.44 mg/L, 7.27 mg/L), AS‐4 (6.80 mg/L, 9.57 mg/L) and AS‐14 (5.33 mg/L, 6.53 mg/L) showed better antifungal activity than that of the standard drug fluconazole (7.66 mg/L, 6.72 mg/L); while inhibitory effect against Glomerella cingulate was poor, only AS‐14 (5.67 mg/L) was superior to that of fluconazole (6.27 mg/L). The research of structure‐activity relationship exhibited that the introduction of halogen elements on the benzene ring and electron withdrawing groups at the 2,4,5 positions on the benzene ring was beneficial to the improvement of the activity against Wheat gibberellic, while the large steric hindrance was not conducive to the improvement of the activity. Additionally, except for AS‐1, AS‐3 and AS‐10, the other compounds had one or several ratio systems to achieve synergistic effect after recombination with pyrimethamine, among which AS‐7 had significant synergistic effect and was expected to be a combinated agent with application prospects. Finally, the molecular docking results of isocitrate lyase with Wheat gibberellic displayed that the presence of hydrogen bonds enabled stable binding of compounds to receptor proteins, and the residues of ARG A: 252, ASN A: 432, CYS A: 215, SER A: 436 and SER A: 434 were the key residues for their binding. Comparing the docking binding energy and biological activity results, it was revealed that the lower the docking binding energy was, the stronger the inhibitory ability of the Wheat gibberellic, when the same position on the benzene ring was substituted.
A soldier's return to duty after minimally invasive correction of complex congenital cardiovascular disease
Authors: Phillips Tarin , Kisling Adam , Gallagher Robert
Published: February 2023

We report a case of incidental detection of severe aortic coarctation, severe secundum atrial septal defect, and bicuspid aortic valve in an active‐duty military service member. A single complex minimally invasive procedure successfully corrected his coarctation and atrial septal defect allowing this patient to continue military service.
Incorporation of Hydrophobic Silica in a Polyvinylidene Fluoride Membrane: Membrane Development and Performance Modeling
Authors: Sze Yin Grace Gan , Aqilah Nur Fatin , Mat Nawi Normi Izati , Mohd Hizam Shafiq , Md Nordin Nik Abdul Hadi , Bilad Muhammad Roil , Adi Putra Zulfan , Jaafar Juhana , Yusof Norhaniza , Hamid Nurfaizey Abdul , Mokhtar Nadzirah Mohd
Published: February 2023

Membrane distillation (MD) performance in seawater desalination can be improved by enhancing the material properties (hydrophobicity, porosity) and process parameters (feed flow rate, temperature). In this study, the effects of hydrophobic silica loading on the properties and MD performance of a polyvinylidene difluoride‐based membrane in seawater desalination were investigated, and a sensitivity analysis (temperature gradient, feed flow rate, salinity) was performed. Incorporation of hydrophobic silica improved the hydrophobicity of the membrane. Higher filler loading increased the number of surface pores while maintaining their size. This resulted in improved flux compared with the neat membrane while maintaining high salt rejection. The optimized membrane was 73 % more efficient than the neat membrane.
Assessing Combinations of B(C6F5)3 and N2‐Derived Molybdenum Nitrido Complexes for Heterolytic Bond Activation
Authors: Coffinet Anaïs , Specklin David , Le Dé Quentin , Bennaamane Soukaina , Muñoz Luna , Vendier Laure , Clot Eric , Mézailles Nicolas , Simonneau Antoine
Published: February 2023

Two different dinitrogen‐derived molybdenum nitrido complexes varying by their geometry, ligand spheres and oxidations states were shown to engage their N ligand in dative bonding with the strong Lewis acid B(C6F5)3. The stable adducts were assessed for frustrated Lewis pair‐type heterolytic E−H bond splitting of hydrosilanes (E=Si) and HB(C6F5)2. Whereas Si−H bond activation was achieved, HB(C6F5)2 was shown to substitute B(C6F5)3 in a quantitative or equilibrated fashion, depending on the nature of the nitrido complex. No B−H bond splitting was observed. Thermodynamics of these reactions, computed by DFT, are in agreement with the experimental outcomes.
Is repeat sentinel lymph node biopsy possible for surgical axillary staging among patients with ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence?
Authors: Lu Xunxi , He Mengting , Yu Luoting , Gou Zongchao
Published: February 2023

Background

There is a lack of studies assessing the survival of repeat sentinel lymph node biopsy (rSLNB) versus axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) for surgical axillary staging among patients with ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR).

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients with IBTR from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 2000 to 2017. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS) between the rSLNB and ALND groups.

Results

Of the 2141 women with IBTR after lumpectomy and SLNB, 524 did not receive surgical axillary staging (nonsurgery group) and 1617 patients who did undergo axilla surgery received either rSLNB or ALND as axillary staging (1268 with rSLNB and 349 with ALND). The 10‐year OS rates were 61.9% for the nonsurgery and 73.8% for axilla surgery groups (p = .001). In the 1:1 matched cohorts, the 10‐year OS rates were 61.4% for the nonsurgery and 69.1% for axilla surgery groups (p = .072). After adjusting for other factors, axillary surgery treatment of IBTR was an independent favorable factor for OS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.71; 95% CI, 0.56–0.90; p = .004). Within the axilla surgery group, rSLNB presented a comparable 10‐year OS to the ALND cohort (log‐rank test p = .054). Multivariate Cox analysis, as well as subgroup analysis, showed that rSLNB had a similar benefit to ALND (10‐year OS; HR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.88–1.58; p = .268).

Conclusions

The results of this cohort study suggested that receiving surgical axillary staging was associated with better survival of IBTR patients, and rSLNB had a similar long‐term survival outcome as ALND. rSLNB might be considered for surgical axillary staging among patients with IBTR after lumpectomy and initial SLNB.
Three‐Period Bioequivalence Study of Sodium Levofolinate Injection With Calcium Levofolinate for Injection and Sodium Folinate for Injection in Healthy Chinese Subjects
Authors: Qiu Benfeng , Liu Gege , Wang Changmao , Chen Xinyan , Liu Ran , Huang Yunzhe , Jia Yuanwei , Shen Jie
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to compare the bioequivalence and safety of test preparation sodium levofolinate injection with reference preparations of calcium levofolinate for injection and sodium folinate for injection in China. A single‐center, randomized, open‐label, 3‐period, crossover test was conducted on 24 healthy subjects. Plasma concentration of levofolinate, dextrofolinate, and their metabolites l‐5‐methyltetrahydrofolate and d‐5‐methyltetrahydrofolate were quantified by a validated chiral–liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method. All adverse events (AEs) were documented to evaluate safety as they occurred and evaluated descriptively. Pharmacokinetic parameters (maximum plasma concentration, time to maximum concentration, area under the plasma concentration–time curve over the dosing interval, area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 to infinity, terminal elimination half‐life, and terminal rate constant) of 3 preparations were calculated. A total of 8 subjects (10 cases) of AEs occurred in this trial. No serious AEs or unexpected serious adverse reactions were observed. Sodium levofolinate was bioequivalent to calcium levofolinate and sodium folinate in Chinese subjects, and the 3 preparations were all well tolerated.
Strategic planning in a time of change
Authors: Felix Elliot
Published: February 2023

Colleges and universities are reckoning with change: Online and hybrid learning. Remote work. Racial justice. Financial uncertainty. New technologies to create and connect. Rising isolation, anxiety, and depression. Demographic shifts. Faculty and staff turnover.
The year 2023 brings its own challenges
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: February 2023

I don't think many of you would argue that 2020, 2021, and 2022 have been three of the most difficult years of our lifetimes. Sure, good things have happened to us individually, but it's been a tough time in many arenas, such as: public health; federal and state government; politics; economics; religion; civilization; and elementary, secondary, and higher education. I dare say no one has been immune to facing challenges in some, if not all, of these realms. All events during this three‐year period are intertwined with the global pandemic of COVID‐19.
DOJ and UC Berkeley enter consent decree in web access case
Authors: Charmatz Marc
Published: February 2023

The United States Department of Justice entered into a Consent Decree with the Board of Regents of the University of California pursuant to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. 12131–34, and the DOJ's implementing regulations, 28 C.F.R. part 35, to ensure website access for individuals with hearing, vision, and manual disabilities. United States of America v. Board of Regents, Case No. 22‐7345 (N.D. Cal. Nov. 21, 2022).
Yale University initiates change to its mental health policies
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: February 2023

Late last year, a group of students sued Yale University, alleging it discriminated against students with mental health disabilities. Specifically, the students claimed the university failed to modify its policies to accommodate such students. The students alleged that Yale forced or encouraged them to withdraw when facing mental health struggles rather than discuss accommodations that would allow them to continue their studies at the university while seeking mental health treatment.
Defect Engineering in Earth‐Abundant Cu2ZnSnSe4 Absorber Using Efficient Alkali Doping for Flexible and Tandem Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Rehan Muhammad , Cho Ara , Jeong Inyoung , Kim Kihwan , Ullah Asmat , Cho Jun‐Sik , Park Joo Hyung , Jo Yunae , Hong Sung Jun , Ahn Seung Kyu , Ahn SeJin , Yun Jae Ho , Gwak Jihye , Shin Donghyeop
Published: February 2023

To demonstrate flexible and tandem device applications, a low‐temperature Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) deposition process, combined with efficient alkali doping, was developed. First, high‐quality CZTSe films were grown at 480 °C by a single co‐evaporation, which is applicable to polyimide (PI) substrate. Because of the alkali‐free substrate, Na and K alkali doping were systematically studied and optimized to precisely control the alkali distribution in CZTSe. The bulk defect density was significantly reduced by suppression of deep acceptor states after the (NaF + KF) PDTs. Through the low‐temperature deposition with (NaF + KF) PDTs, the CZTSe device on glass yields the best efficiency of 8.1% with an improved VOC deficit of 646 mV. The developed deposition technologies have been applied to PI. For the first time, we report the highest efficiency of 6.92% for flexible CZTSe solar cells on PI. Additionally, CZTSe devices were utilized as bottom cells to fabricate four‐terminal CZTSe/perovskite tandem cells because of a low bandgap of CZTSe (~1.0 eV) so that the tandem cell yielded an efficiency of 20%. The obtained results show that CZTSe solar cells prepared by a low‐temperature process with in‐situ alkali doping can be utilized for flexible thin‐film solar cells as well as tandem device applications.
Non‐enzyme electrochemical sensing fabrics and wearable applications based on bimetallic NiCo‐MOFs
Authors: Yuan Mengxian , Wang Lichao , Li Kerui , Zhang Qinghong , Li Yaogang , Hou Chengyi , Wang Hongzhi
Published: February 2023

Portable sweat analysis devices for real‐time monitoring of health‐related biomarkers with great detection accuracy and high sensitivity are attracting public interest. Here, we report a flexible fabric sweat analysis devices bimetallic Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for detection of glucose in sweat without any biological enzymes. The synergy between Ni2+ and Co2+ and the large surface area (424.41 m2 g−1) and high porosity (0.0542 cm3 g−1) of NiCo‐MOF make NiCo‐MOF an interesting electrode modification material in the working electrode. Furthermore, the ultra‐high porosity and huge surface area of the MOFs structure are required for electrocatalysts in alkaline media. On the basis of the above, we have developed a fabric‐based analytical patch, which is sufficient for simultaneous real‐time detection of glucose in sweat.
Integrating metabolomics and lipidomics revealed a decrease in plasma fatty acids but an increase in triglycerides in children with drug‐refractory epilepsy
Authors: Guo Hong‐Li , Wang Wei‐Jun , Dong Na , Zhao Yue‐Tao , Dai Hao‐Ran , Hu Ya‐Hui , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Wang Jie , Qiu Jin‐Chun , Lu Xiao‐Peng , Chen Feng
Published: February 2023

Objective

The drug‐refractory epilepsy (DRE) in children is commonly observed but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. We examined whether fatty acids (FAs) and lipids are potentially associated with the pharmacoresistance to valproic acid (VPA) therapy.

Methods

This single‐center, retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from pediatric patients collected between May 2019 and December 2019 at the Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. Ninety plasma samples from 53 responders with VPA monotherapy (RE group) and 37 non‐responders with VPA polytherapy (NR group) were collected. Non‐targeted metabolomics and lipidomics analysis for those plasma samples were performed to compare the potential differences of small metabolites and lipids between the two groups. Plasma metabolites and lipids passing the threshold of variable importance in projection value >1, fold change >1.2 or <0.8, and p‐value <0.05 were regarded as statistically different substances.

Results

A total of 204 small metabolites and 433 lipids comprising 16 different lipid subclasses were identified. The well‐established partial least squares‐discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) revealed a good separation of the RE from the NR group. The FAs and glycerophospholipids status were significantly decreased in the NR group, but their triglycerides (TG) levels were significantly increased. The trend of TG levels in routine laboratory tests was in line with the lipidomics analysis. Meanwhile, cases from the NR group were characterized by a decreased level of citric acid and L‐thyroxine, but with an increased level of glucose and 2‐oxoglutarate. The top two enriched metabolic pathways involved in the DRE condition were biosynthesis of unsaturated FAs and linoleic acid metabolism.

Significance

The results of this study suggested an association between metabolism of FAs and the medically intractable epilepsy. Such novel findings might propose a potential mechanism linked to the energy metabolism. Ketogenic acid and FAs supplementation might therefore be high‐priority strategies for DRE management.
Chemical aging of sealing gasket of proton exchange membrane fuel cell
Authors: Xu Wenbin , Zhang Xu
Published: February 2023

As the key sealing part of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), the gasket is easily damaged in acidic solution and wet air for a long time in PEMFC, resulting in unsafe and unstable operation of PEMFC. In this paper, the regular solution (RS) and accelerated durability test (ADT) solution in PEMFC were prepared to study the aging damage process of silicone rubber gasket, and the attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (ATR‐FTIR) was used to analyze the surface changes of gaskets soaked in solutions. The results showed that the weight loss of samples increased with the soaking time in both ADT solution and RS solution, and the damage of samples in ADT solution was faster and more serious than that in RS solution. Meanwhile, the microstructure diagram also indicated that the damage of the samples in ADT solution was more serious than that in the RS solution. The ATR‐FTIR analysis results showed that the intensity of characteristic wave peaks of samples at 706, 787, 867, 1006, 1071, 1260, and 2961cm−1 in ADT solution decreased faster than that in RS solution, which was consistent with the results of weight analysis and microstructure analysis.
Minimally invasive retroauricular approach parotidectomy: A pictorial essay
Authors: Sethi Harleen K. , Fundakowski Christopher E.
Published: February 2023

The surgical approach to a parotid neoplasm has traditionally been taught through a modified‐Blair incision. This approach results in a visible scar in the preauricular, retromandibular, and upper neck skin. Various modifications have been undertaken which aim to improve cosmesis either by decreasing overall incision length and/or relocation of the incision to the hairline via what is commonly described as a “facelift approach”. We describe a novel minimally invasive parotidectomy approach which utilizes a single retroauricular incision. This approach eliminates both the preauricular scar as well as the extended incision in the hairline and additional skin flap elevation which accompanies it. Sixteen patients underwent parotidectomy using this minimally invasive incision and the excellent clinical outcomes are reviewed. The minimally invasive retroauricular approach to parotidectomy provides excellent exposure with no visible incision/scar in appropriately selected patients.
Rates of osteoradionecrosis in resected oral cavity cancer reconstructed with free tissue transfer in the intensity‐modulated radiotherapy era
Authors: Wu Shannon S. , Hong Hanna , Fritz Michael , Ku Jamie , Prendes Brandon , Silver Natalie , Genther Dane J. , Ciolek Peter , Byrne Patrick , Brauer Philip , Reddy Chandana A. , Woody Neil , Campbell Shauna , Koyfman Shlomo A. , Lamarre Eric D.
Published: February 2023

Background

Resected oral cavity carcinoma defects are often reconstructed with osteocutaneous or soft‐tissue free flaps, but risk of osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is unknown.

Methods

This retrospective study included oral cavity carcinoma treated with free‐tissue reconstruction and postoperative IMRT between 2000 and 2019. Risk‐regression assessed risk factors for grade ≥2 ORN.

Results

One hundred fifty‐five patients (51% male, 28% current smokers, mean age 62 ± 11 years) were included. Median follow‐up was 32.6 months (range, 1.0–190.6). Thirty‐eight (25%) patients had fibular free flap for mandibular reconstruction, whereas 117 (76%) had soft‐tissue reconstruction. Grade ≥2 ORN occurred in 14 (9.0%) patients, at a median 9.8 months (range, 2.4–61.5) after IMRT. Post‐radiation teeth extraction was significantly associated with ORN. One‐year and 10‐year ORN rates were 5.2% and 10%, respectively.

Conclusions

ORN risk was comparable between osteocutaneous and soft‐tissue reconstruction for resected oral cavity carcinoma. Osteocutaneous flaps can be safely performed with no excess concern for mandibular ORN.
Post‐laryngectomy pulmonary and related symptom changes following adoption of an optimal day‐and‐night heat and moisture exchanger (HME) regimen
Authors: Ward Elizabeth C. , Hancock Kelli , Boxall Jenni , Burns Clare L. , Spurgin Ann‐Louise , Lehn Belinda , Hoey Juliet , Robinson Rachelle , Coleman Adele
Published: February 2023

Background

This study examined post‐laryngectomy pulmonary and related symptom changes following establishment of an optimal day/night regimen (all day/night wear of devices with improved humidification) using a new generation range of heat and moisture exchanger (HME) devices.

Methods

In Phase 1 (6 weeks), 42 post‐laryngectomy HME users transitioned from their usual HME regime to equivalent new device/s (i.e., “like‐for‐like”). In Phase 2 (6 weeks) participants used the full range of HMEs to achieve an optimal day/night regimen. Pulmonary symptoms, device use, sleep, skin integrity, quality of life and satisfaction were examined at baseline, and weeks 2 and 6 of each Phase.

Results

From baseline to end of Phase 2, cough symptoms and impact significantly improved, as did sputum symptoms, sputum impact, duration and types of HMEs used, reasons for HME replacement, involuntary coughs, and sleep.

Conclusion

The new HME range supported improved HME use, with pulmonary and related symptom benefits.
The medial entorhinal cortex is necessary for the stimulus control over hippocampal place fields by distal, but not proximal, landmarks
Authors: Allison Elizabeth A. M. A. , Moore Joe W. , Arkell Daisy , Thomas Julia , Dudchenko Paul A. , Wood Emma R.
Published: February 2023

A fundamental property of place cells in the hippocampus is the anchoring of their firing fields to salient landmarks within the environment. However, it is unclear how such information reaches the hippocampus. In the current experiment, we tested the hypothesis that the stimulus control exerted by distal visual landmarks requires input from the medial entorhinal cortex (MEC). Place cells were recorded from mice with ibotenic acid lesions of the MEC (n = 7) and from sham‐lesioned mice (n = 6) following 90° rotations of either distal landmarks or proximal cues in a cue‐ controlled environment. We found that lesions of the MEC impaired the anchoring of place fields to distal landmarks, but not proximal cues. We also observed that, relative to sham‐lesioned mice, place cells in animals with MEC lesions exhibited significantly reduced spatial information and increased sparsity. These results support the view that distal landmark information reaches the hippocampus via the MEC, but that proximal cue information can do so via an alternative neural pathway.
Water use patterns of dominant species of riparian wetlands in arid areas
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhu Guofeng , Lin Xinrui , Liu Yuwei , Zhao Kailiang , Sang Liyuan , Zhang Wenhao , Qiu Dongdong , Zhang Zhuanxia , Sun Zhigang
Published: February 2023

Water resource shortage in arid areas is the main cause of ecological problems. Understanding plant water use patterns is essential for understanding soil–plant interactions and assessing the adaptability of plants in ecosystems with limited water resources. Riparian wetlands are functional transition areas connecting aquatic ecosystems and terrestrial ecosystems. Wetland vegetation restoration is of great significance to water conservation and ecological balance. Using isotope tracing method, our study clarified the water use patterns of dominant plants in typical riparian wetlands in arid areas. The results showed that the dominant herbal species ofSalsola affinismainly used 0–60 cm soil water (48.96%).Salsola affinis, which continuously obtains water from shallow soil, may be difficult to survive in extreme drought conditions. If it withered significantly aged in the dry season, it would have a negative ecological impact. The dominant tree species ofSalix matsudanaKoidz mainly used 20–100 cm soil water (43.99%) and groundwater (23.16%). With increasing water stress,S. matsudanaKoidz had a greater degree of ecological plasticity and can use water from deeper soils. However,S. matsudanaKoidz can continuously obtained water from deep soil and groundwater, which may weaken the water and soil conservation capacity of the wetland. In addition, the lc‐excess value of soil water showed that the soil evaporation intensity of grassland was higher than that of forest land, and the surface evaporation depth reached 60 cm. Our findings will help better understand the impact of vegetation restoration plan (artificial forest land and natural grassland) on the hydrological process of riparian wetland in arid areas, and provide reference for plant species selection and water resources management.
Foreign direct investment, sectoral output performance and poverty in Africa: Evidence from panel structural vector autoregressive and threshold regression models
Authors: Chukwu Anayochukwu Basil , Adewuyi Adeolu O.
Published: February 2023

African countries are faced with many challenges, which have hindered growth and development, yet they are unable to implement policies to attract adequate external funding for addressing their growth and development challenges. Using a cross‐sectional panel data of 23 African countries, spanning 1996–2020, this study applied a novel panel structural autoregressive model and a modification of the recently introduced dynamic threshold model to analyse the foreign direct investment (FDI)‐growth‐poverty relationship at sectoral level. The study accounted for heterogeneity, simultaneity bias and cross‐sectional dependence in the modelling exercise. Findings suggest that shocks in FDI produced significant positive impact on manufacturing and services output performances in Africa in the short‐term. However, shocks in FDI did not stimulate appreciable effect on agricultural output performance over time. Moreover, the results show that the effect of FDI shocks on human development index (HDI) was greater in the short‐ to medium‐term than in the long‐term. The threshold regression results suggest that higher levels of FDI inflow and HDI are needed for macroeconomic factors to produce significant positive effects on sectoral output performance. This study therefore provided some valuable recommendations to guide evidence‐based policy making in Africa to improve sectoral output and welfare.
The shift to one‐dose HPV vaccination: Where does this leave women living with HIV?
Authors: McClymont Elisabeth , Money Deborah
Published: February 2023

Synopsis

One‐dose human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination schedules are now recommended by the WHO. We explore HPV vaccination challenges and research needs for women living with HIV.
Adaptation of Venezuelan refugees in Colombia: The mediating roles of acculturation orientations in influencing acculturation adaptations
Authors: Safdar Saba , Soltan Hajar , Martínez‐González Marina Begoña , Sañudo Jorge Enrique Palacio
Published: February 2023

As of 2021, over 5.4 million Venezuelans have fled their home country in search of safety, food, medicine and access to essential services. This is the most substantial exodus in the recent history of Latin America. Colombia has received 2 million of these refugees, making it the nation host to the greatest number of Venezuelan refugees. The present research aims to examine the relations between the sociocultural and psychological factors that are associated with Psychological Adaptation of Venezuelan refugees living in Colombia. We also examined how these relations were mediated by the acculturation orientations. Among Venezuelan refugees, higher Psychological Strength, lower Perceived Discrimination, higher National Identity and higher Outgroup Social Support, were significantly associated with higher engagement with Colombian society and better Psychological Adaptation. Orientation to the host (Colombian) society mediated the association between (a) National Identity and Psychological Adaptation, (b) Outgroup Social Support and Psychological Adaptation and (c) Perceived Discrimination and Psychological Adaptation. The results may inform refugee receiving societies of some essential factors and positive strategies behind adaptation of refugees.
Parenting stress and competence among mothers of young children with substance use disorders: The roles of trauma and reflective functioning
Authors: Paris Ruth , Herriott Anna L. , Holt Melissa
Published: February 2023

Posttraumatic stress symptoms are prominent in the lives of parents of young children with substance use disorders (SUD). Parenting experiences, particularly stress and competence, impact parenting behaviors and concomitant child growth and development. Factors that promote positive experiences of parenting, such as parental reflective functioning (PRF), and protect the mother and child from negative outcomes are crucial to understand to develop effective therapeutic interventions. The current US study analyzed baseline data from a parenting intervention evaluation to examine how length of substance misuse, PRF, and trauma symptoms were associated with parenting stress and parenting sense of competence among mothers in treatment for SUDs. Measures included the Addiction Severity Index, PTSD Symptom Scale‐Self Report, Parental Reflective Functioning Questionnaire, Parenting Stress Index/Short Form, and Parenting Sense of Competence Scale. The sample included 54 predominantly White mothers with SUDs who had young children. Two multivariate regression analyses found that (1) lower parental reflective functioning and higher posttraumatic stress symptoms were associated with higher parenting stress, and (2) only higher posttraumatic stress symptoms were associated with lower levels of parenting sense of competence. Findings underscore the importance of addressing trauma symptoms and PRF when aiming to improve parenting experiences for women with an SUD.
How does a change in outside options affect relational contracting outcomes? Experimental evidence and implications for agricultural contracting
Authors: Brindley Jacob , MacDonald James M. , Wu Steven Y.
Published: February 2023

We use experiments, guided by theory, to examine how an exogenous decrease in the value of an agent's outside option (e.g., a proxy for a reduction in alternative contracting opportunities) affects relational contracting across two institutional environments. In the pure relational contracting environment, principals respond to a reduction in agents' outside option by restructuring contracts to offer fewer payment guarantees. This exposes agents to more counter‐party risk and their actual profits fell well short of promised profits. This is mitigated when contracting institutions permit formal contracts to coexist with relational contracts. Extensive margin and intensive margin efficiency are mostly unaffected.
Performance of FRAX in Men With Prostate Cancer: A Registry-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Ye Carrie , Morin Suzanne N. , Lix Lisa M. , McCloskey Eugene V. , Johansson Helena , Harvey Nicholas C. , Kanis John A. , Leslie William D.
Published: February 2023

The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) was created to predict major osteoporotic fractures (MOF) and hip fractures in the general population. Whether FRAX accurately predicts fractures in men with prostate cancer is unknown. Our objective was to assess the performance of FRAX for predicting incident fractures in men with prostate cancer. Men from the Manitoba Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Registry (1996–2018) with prostate cancer diagnoses in the 3 years prior to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) were identified. FRAX scores with and without BMD were calculated. From population-based healthcare data we identified incident MOF, hip fracture, any osteoporotic fracture and death from the date of BMD testing to March 31, 2018. Cox regression was performed to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) per standard deviation increase in FRAX score. Observed 10-year probability (estimated with competing risk of mortality) was compared with 10-year FRAX-predicted fracture probability to assess calibration. The study population included 684 men with prostate cancer (mean age 74.6 years) and 8608 men without prostate cancer (mean age 65.5 years). FRAX stratified risk for MOF (HR 1.91, 95% CI 1.48–2.45 with BMD; HR 1.96, 95% CI 1.43–2.69 without BMD) and hip fracture (HR 3.37, 95% CI 1.90–6.01 with BMD; HR 4.58, 95% CI 2.17–9.67 without BMD) in men with prostate cancer. There was no effect modification observed with prostate cancer status or current androgen deprivation therapy. Observed 10-year fracture probability in men with prostate cancer showed good agreement with FRAX with and without BMD included in the calculation (observed/predicted calibration ratios MOF 0.97, hip 1.00 with BMD; MOF 0.92, hip 0.93 with BMD). In conclusion, FRAX reliably predicts incident fractures in men with prostate cancer. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Beneficial effects of quercetin on vincristine‐induced liver injury in rats: Modulating the levels of Nrf2/HO‐1, NF‐kB/STAT3, and SIRT1/PGC‐1α
Authors: Çomaklı Selim , Özdemir Selçuk , Küçükler Sefa , Kandemir Fatih M.
Published: February 2023

Our experimental objective was to investigate the hepatotoxic effect of vincristine (VCR) administration in rats and determined whether combined therapy with Quercetin (Quer) ensured protection. Five groups with seven rats each were used for this purpose, and experimental groups were formulated as follows: Control group; Quer group; VCR group; VCR plus Quer 25 group; VCR plus Quer 50 group. The results showed that VCR significantly increased the activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzymes. Besides, VCR caused considerable increases in the malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, along with significant decreases in reduced glutathione levels, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase enzyme activities in the rat livers. Quer treatment in VCR toxicity markedly decreased the activity of ALT, AST, ALP enzymes, and MDA contents and enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes. The results also showed that VCR significantly increased the levels of NF‐kB, STAT3, and the expression of caspase 3, Bax, and MAP LC3 and decreased the expression of Bcl2 and levels of Nrf2, HO‐1, SIRT1, and PGC‐1α. Compared to the VCR group, Quer treatment exhibited significantly lower levels of NF‐kB, STAT3, and the expression of caspase 3, Bax, and MAP LC3, and higher levels of Nrf2, HO‐1, SIRT1, and PGC‐1α. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that Quer could alleviate the harmful effects of VCR via activation of NRf2/HO‐1 and SIRT1/PGC‐1α pathways, and via attenuation of oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and NF‐kB/STAT3 pathways.
Chemoimmunotherapy with doxorubicin and caffeine combination enhanced ICD induction and T‐cell infiltration in B16F10 melanoma tumors
Authors: Yerragopu Anil Kumar , Vellapandian Chitra
Published: February 2023

Majority of chemotherapeutic agents can elicit antitumor immunity and modulate the composition, density, function, and distribution of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), to influence differential therapeutic responses and prognosis in cancer patients. The clinical success of these agents, particularly anthracyclines like doxorubicin, not only depends on their cytotoxic activity but also by the enhancement of pre‐existing immunity primarily through induction of immunogenic cell death (ICD). However, resistance for the induction of ICD either intrinsic or acquired is a major hurdle for most of these drugs. To enhance ICD by these agents, it has become clear that blockade of adenosine production or its signaling need to be specifically targeted as they represent highly resistant mechanisms. Given the prominent role of adenosine mediated immunosuppression and resistance to ICD induction in tumor microenvironment, combination strategies that involve ICD induction and adenosine signaling blockade are further warranted. In the present study, we investigated the antitumor effect of caffeine and doxorubicin combination therapy against 3‐MCA‐induced and cell‐line induced tumors in mice. Our results demonstrated significant tumor growth inhibition by the combination therapy of doxorubicin and caffeine against both carcinogen‐induced and cell‐line induced tumor models. In addition, significant T‐cell infiltration and enhanced ICD induction evidenced by increased intratumoral calreticulin and HMGB1 levels, was observed in B16F10 melanoma mice. The possible mechanism behind the observed antitumor activity might be due to the enhanced ICD induction and subsequent T‐cell infiltration by the combination therapy. To prevent the development of resistance and to enhance the antitumor activity of ICD inducing drugs like doxorubicin, combination with adenosine‐A2A receptor pathway inhibitors like caffeine might be a potential strategy.
Black women's help‐seeking and self‐care strategies: A phenomenological exploration
Authors: Silas Melany J. , Seward Derek X.
Published: February 2023

Within counseling and other mental health disciplines, Black women are underserved, psychologically misdiagnosed, and one of the least researched minoritized cultural populations. We used a hermeneutic phenomenological study to understand the lived experiences of 16 Black women who experienced mental health stress to understand their mental health needs, barriers to mental health care, and help‐seeking and self‐care practices. Findings included the following four themes: perspectives on oppression on mental health, socio‐cultural messages about self‐care and help‐seeking, perspectives about self‐care, and perspectives about professional counseling. Implications for counselors are discussed.
Diagnosis of descending aorta‐pulmonary venous fistula combined with pulmonary arteriovenous fistula by color Doppler ultrasound combined with CT: A case report
Authors: Yan Xiaohui , Song Yanping , Niu Huimin , Jiao Ronghong
Published: February 2023

Aorto‐pulmonary venous fistula combined with pulmonary arteriovenous fistula is a rare condition with an unknown incidence. We experienced a case of descending aorto‐pulmonary venous fistula combined with a pulmonary arteriovenous fistula, which was treated with pulmonary arteriovenous fistula embolization and improved.
Baylis–Hillmanadducts as an important synthon for the synthesis of α‐carbolinone and α‐carboline derivatives
Authors: Lenin Dandamudi V. , Malvi Payal
Published: February 2023

Baylis–Hillman adducts were conveniently transformed into α‐carbolinone and α‐carboline derivatives by monoalkylation of 2‐nitrobenzylcyanide, imide formation/Friedel–Crafts cyclization, and treatment with Fe/AcOH in simple process is described.
Impact and cost‐effectiveness of the national scale‐up of HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis among female sex workers in South Africa: a modelling analysis
Authors: Stone Jack , Bothma Rutendo , Gomez Gabriela B. , Eakle Robyn , Mukandavire Christinah , Subedar Hasina , Fraser Hannah , Boily Marie‐Claude , Schwartz Sheree , Coetzee Jenny , Otwombe Kennedy , Milovanovic Minja , Baral Stefan , Johnson Leigh F. , Venter Willem Daniel Francois , Rees Helen , Vickerman Peter
Published: February 2023

Introduction

In 2016, South Africa (SA) initiated a national programme to scale‐up pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among female sex workers (FSWs), with ∼20,000 PrEP initiations among FSWs (∼14% of FSW) by 2020. We evaluated the impact and cost‐effectiveness of this programme, including future scale‐up scenarios and the potential detrimental impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A compartmental HIV transmission model for SA was adapted to include PrEP. Using estimates on self‐reported PrEP adherence from a national study of FSW (67.7%) and the Treatment and Prevention for FSWs (TAPS) PrEP demonstration study in SA (80.8%), we down‐adjusted TAPS estimates for the proportion of FSWs with detectable drug levels (adjusted range: 38.0–70.4%). The model stratified FSW by low (undetectable drug; 0% efficacy) and high adherence (detectable drug; 79.9%; 95% CI: 67.2–87.6% efficacy). FSWs can transition between adherence levels, with lower loss‐to‐follow‐up among highly adherent FSWs (aHR: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.40–0.85; TAPS data). The model was calibrated to monthly data on the national scale‐up of PrEP among FSWs over 2016–2020, including reductions in PrEP initiations during 2020. The model projected the impact of the current programme (2016–2020) and the future impact (2021–2040) at current coverage or if initiation and/or retention are doubled. Using published cost data, we assessed the cost‐effectiveness (healthcare provider perspective; 3% discount rate; time horizon 2016–2040) of the current PrEP provision.

Results

Calibrated to national data, model projections suggest that 2.1% of HIV‐negative FSWs were currently on PrEP in 2020, with PrEP preventing 0.45% (95% credibility interval, 0.35–0.57%) of HIV infections among FSWs over 2016–2020 or 605 (444–840) infections overall. Reductions in PrEP initiations in 2020 possibly reduced infections averted by 18.57% (13.99–23.29). PrEP is cost‐saving, with $1.42 (1.03–1.99) of ART costs saved per dollar spent on PrEP. Going forward, existing coverage of PrEP will avert 5,635 (3,572–9,036) infections by 2040. However, if PrEP initiation and retention doubles, then PrEP coverage increases to 9.9% (8.7–11.6%) and impact increases 4.3 times with 24,114 (15,308–38,107) infections averted by 2040.

Conclusions

Our findings advocate for the expansion of PrEP to FSWs throughout SA to maximize its impact. This should include strategies to optimize retention and should target women in contact with FSW services.
Role of epicardial adipose tissue in human atrial fibrillation
Authors: Takahashi Naohiko , Abe Ichitaro , Kira Shintaro , Ishii Yumi
Published: February 2023

A recent meta‐analysis among which four reports were conducted in Japan demonstrated that epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is closely associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after catheter ablation. We previously investigated the role of EAT in AF in humans. Left atrial (LA) appendage samples were obtained from AF patients during cardiovascular surgery. Histologically, the severity of fibrotic EAT remodeling was associated with LA myocardial fibrosis. Total collagen in the LA myocardium (i.e., LA myocardial fibrosis) was positively correlated with proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines/chemokines, including interleukin‐6, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, and tumor necrosis factor‐α, in EAT. Human peri‐LA EAT and abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) were obtained by autopsy. EAT‐ or SAT‐derived conditioned medium was applied to the rat LA epicardial surface using an organo‐culture system. EAT‐conditioned medium induced atrial fibrosis in organo‐cultured rat atrium. The profibrotic effect of EAT was greater than that of SAT. The fibrotic area of the organo‐cultured rat atrium treated with EAT from patients with AF was greater than in patients without AF. Treatment with human recombinant angiopoietin‐like protein 2 (Angptl2) induced fibrosis in organo‐cultured rat atrium, which was suppressed by concomitant treatment with anti‐Angptl2 antibody. Finally, we attempted to detect fibrotic EAT remodeling on computed tomography (CT) images, which demonstrated that the percent change in EAT fat attenuation was positively correlated with EAT fibrosis. Based on these findings, we conclude that the percent change in EAT fat attenuation determined using CT non‐invasively detects EAT remodeling.
Ultrasound‐Based Machine Learning Approach for Detection of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Tahmasebi Aylin , Wang Shuo , Wessner Corinne E. , Vu Trang , Liu Ji‐Bin , Forsberg Flemming , Civan Jesse , Guglielmo Flavius F. , Eisenbrey John R.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Current diagnosis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) relies on biopsy or MR‐based fat quantification. This prospective study explored the use of ultrasound with artificial intelligence for the detection of NAFLD.

Methods

One hundred and twenty subjects with clinical suspicion of NAFLD and 10 healthy volunteers consented to participate in this institutional review board‐approved study. Subjects were categorized as NAFLD and non‐NAFLD according to MR proton density fat fraction (PDFF) findings. Ultrasound images from 10 different locations in the right and left hepatic lobes were collected following a standard protocol. MRI‐based liver fat quantification was used as the reference standard with >6.4% indicative of NAFLD. A supervised machine learning model was developed for assessment of NAFLD. To validate model performance, a balanced testing dataset of 24 subjects was used. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and overall accuracy with 95% confidence interval were calculated.

Results

A total of 1119 images from 106 participants was used for model development. The internal evaluation achieved an average precision of 0.941, recall of 88.2%, and precision of 89.0%. In the testing set AutoML achieved a sensitivity of 72.2% (63.1%–80.1%), specificity of 94.6% (88.7%–98.0%), positive predictive value (PPV) of 93.1% (86.0%–96.7%), negative predictive value of 77.3% (71.6%–82.1%), and accuracy of 83.4% (77.9%–88.0%). The average agreement for an individual subject was 92%.

Conclusions

An ultrasound‐based machine learning model for identification of NAFLD showed high specificity and PPV in this prospective trial. This approach may in the future be used as an inexpensive and noninvasive screening tool for identifying NAFLD in high‐risk patients.