bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tandem Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia on MBenes
Authors: Zhang Guike , Li Xiaotian , Chen Kai , Guo Yali , Ma Dongwei , Chu Ke
Published: February 2023

We demonstrate the great feasibility of MBenes as a new class of tandem catalysts for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia (NO3RR). As a proof of concept, FeB2is first employed as a model MBene catalyst for the NO3RR, showing a maximum NH3‐Faradaic efficiency of 96.8 % with a corresponding NH3yield of 25.5 mg h−1 cm−2at −0.6 V vs. RHE. Mechanistic studies reveal that the exceptional NO3RR activity of FeB2arises from the tandem catalysis mechanism, that is, B sites activate NO3−to form intermediates, while Fe sites dissociate H2O and increase *H supply on B sites to promote the intermediate hydrogenation and enhance the NO3−‐to‐NH3conversion.
Enforced Electronic‐Donor‐Acceptor Complex Formation in Water for Photochemical Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Tian Ya‐Ming , Hofmann Evamaria , Silva Wagner , Pu Xiang , Touraud Didier , Gschwind Ruth M. , Kunz Werner , König Burkhard
Published: February 2023

The amino alcohol meglumine solubilizes organic compounds in water and enforces the formation of electron donor acceptor (EDA) complexes of haloarenes with indoles, anilines, anisoles or thiols, which are not observed in organic solvents. UV‐A photoinduced electron transfer within the EDA complexes induces the mesolytic cleavage of the halide ion and radical recombination of the arenes leading, after rearomatization and proton loss to C−C or C−S coupling products. Depending on the substitution pattern selective and unique cross‐couplings are observed. UV and NMR measurements reveal the importance of the assembly for the photoinduced reaction. Enforced EDA aggregate formation in water allows new activation modes for organic photochemical synthesis.
Copper(I) Photocatalyzed Bromonitroalkylation of Olefins: Evidence for Highly Efficient Inner‐Sphere Pathways
Authors: Reichle Alexander , Koch Magdalena , Sterzel Hannes , Großkopf Lea‐Joy , Floss Johannes , Rehbein Julia , Reiser Oliver
Published: February 2023

We report the visible light‐mediated copper‐catalyzed vicinal difunctionalization of olefins utilizing bromonitroalkanes as ATRA reagents. This protocol is characterized by high yields and fast reaction times under environmentally benign reaction conditions with exceptional scope, allowing the rapid functionalization of both activated and unactivated olefins. Moreover, late‐stage functionnalization of biologically active molecules and upscaling to gram quantities is demonstrated, which offers manifold possibilities for further transformations, e.g. access to nitro‐ and aminocyclopropanes. Besides the synthetic utility of the title transformation, this study undergirds the exclusive role of copper in photoredox catalysis showing its ability to stabilize and interact with radical intermediates in its coordination sphere. EPR studies suggest that such interactions can even outperform a highly favorable cyclization of transient to persistent radicals contrasting iridium‐based photocatalysts.
Synthesis of Cyclopentadiene and Methylcyclopentadiene with Xylose or Extracted Hemicellulose
Authors: Yu Zhenjie , Zou Zhufan , Wang Ran , Li Guangyi , Wang Aiqin , Cong Yu , Zhang Tao , Li Ning
Published: February 2023

Cyclopentadiene (CPD) and methylcyclopentadiene (MCPD) are important intermediates that have been widely used in the production of high‐energy‐density rocket fuels, polymers and valuable chemicals. Currently, CPD and MCPD are produced from fossil energies at very low yields, which greatly limits their application. As a solution to this problem, we disclose an alternative two‐step bio‐route to access CPD and MCPD using xylose or extracted hemicellulose as the feedstock. In the first step, cyclopentanone (CPO) was directly produced by the selective hydrogenolysis of xylose or extracted hemicellulose over a commercial Ru/C catalyst in an acid‐free toluene/NaCl aqueous solution biphasic system. In the second step, CPO was selectively converted to CPD by a cascade hydrodeoxygenation/dehydrogenation reaction over zinc molybdate catalysts. When methanol was introduced with CPO and hydrogen, MCPD was selectively obtained by a cascade dehydrogenation/aldol condensation/selective hydrodeoxygenation reaction over zinc molybdate catalysts.
Enhanced tensile properties of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene fibers by solubility improvement with mixed solvents
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Xinwei , Fu Jiabin , Yu Junrong , Wang Yan , Hu Zuming
Published: February 2023

The tensile properties of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers obtained from mixed solvents are addressed by virtue of improved solubility. In this work, olive oil (OO) was introduced as a poor solvent for the pre‐swelling of UHMWPE in decalin, and its mass percentage was intended to be 10, 20, 30, and 40 wt% of UHMWPE. Then UHMWPE fibers with high molecular weight retention and low entanglement were prepared with paraffin oil as spinning solvent by gel‐spinning and hot‐drawing. Unlike other samples, there is a more significant molecular chain disentanglement and higher molecular weight retention for UHMWPE fibers as OO addition is 20 wt%. Surprisingly, obtained UHMWPE fibers exhibit tensile strength up to 33.85 cN/dtex and tensile modulus of 1673.27 cN/dtex, with an increase of 24.0% and 32.3%, respectively, compared with that of UHMWPE fibers without decalin/OO pre‐swelling. Furthermore, the obtained UHMWPE fibers are accompanied by a marked improvement in melting temperature, crystallization and orientation.
Interpenetrating network structure design and corrosion resistance of high‐performance waterborne polyurethane coating modified by epoxy resin and functionalized graphene oxide
Authors: Pu Zejun , Pang Jiahong , He Xiaohang , Zhu Rongli , Zhong Jiachun , Liu Xiaobo , Jiang Diyong , Ning ZhongPei
Published: February 2023

To obtain graphene oxide (GO) derivatives‐based waterborne polyurethane (WPU) composite coatings with high anti‐corrosion performance, microstructure, dispersion and interfacial adhesion of the coatings are key factors to consider. In this study, the waterborne polyurethane modified by epoxy resin (WEPU) and graphene oxide (GO) derivatives was synthesized by copolymerization, and its synergistic effect on the anti‐corrosion properties of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) coating was investigated. For this purpose, the isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) was grafted to the surface of GO. Then, the functionalized GO (iGO) was uniformly dispersed in the WEPU emulsions by a prepolymer method, which was attributed to strong interaction between iGO and WEPU, as proved by FTIR spectra and SEM images. The deterioration process of WEPU and iGO‐WEPU coatings during the long‐term immersion in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results indicated that the introduction of well dispersed iGO nanosheets into WEPU system enhanced the corrosion protection performance to substrate. Significantly, for the 0.9 wt% iGO nanosheets reinforced WEPU composite films, the contact angle value of iGO‐WEPU composite films (94.7°) reaches the highest in comparison with that of pure WEPU film (88°), thus remarkably improving the water barrier property of iGO‐WEPU coating.
Breaching the frame: Psychoanalysis and sunset boulevard
Authors: Kaul Nilofer
Published: February 2023

Sunset Boulevard is a film that breaches the frames that cinema has conventionally used. It playfully satirises Hollywood with its silent era, its glossy nostalgia, its mystique that conceals its brittle cynicism. Norma Desmond is satirised but she is also the means by which Hollywood stands exposed. In many ways, the audience like Joe Gillis thinks they are in on the joke, till it turns against them. This paper argues that we can read this as a cautionary tale for psychoanalysts as we enter into an analysis of the patient, only to discover that we have been recruited into a world that never was in our control.
Winds in ultraluminous X‐ray sources: New challenges
Authors: Pinto C. , Kosec P.
Published: February 2023

Ultraluminous X‐ray sources (ULXs) are extreme X‐ray binaries shining above 1039erg/s, in most cases as a consequence of super‐Eddington accretion onto neutron stars and stellar‐mass black holes accreting above their Eddington limit. This was understood after the discovery of coherent pulsations, cyclotron lines, and powerful winds. The latter was possible thanks to the high‐resolution X‐ray spectrometers aboardXMM‐Newton. ULX winds carry a huge amount of power owing to their relativistic speeds (0.1–0.3c) and are able to significantly affect the surrounding medium, likely producing the observed 100 pc ULX superbubbles, and limit the amount of matter that can reach the central accretor. The study of ULX winds is therefore quintessential to understand (1) how much and how fast can matter be accreted by compact objects and (2) how strong is their feedback on the surrounding medium. This is also relevant to understand supermassive black holes growth. Here we provide an overview on this phenomenology, highlight some recent, exciting results and show how future missions such asXRISM,eXTP, andATHENAwill improve our understanding.
Consistency tests of structure formation simulations of scalar field dark matter
Authors: Medellín‐González Stefany G. , González‐Morales Alma X. , Ureña‐López L. Arturo
Published: February 2023

The so‐called scalar field dark matter model assumes that dark matter is an ultralight axon, with its De Broglie wavelength around λ ∼ 1kpc. This can lead to a scale suppression of the mass power spectrum at sub‐galactic scales, as compared with the standard cosmological model Λcold dark matter. In this work, we show numerical tests of cosmological simulations of scalar field dark matter using an amended version of the code MG‐PICOLA with a double purpose: to validate the results in (Medellín‐González et al. 2021), and extend them to higher numerical resolutions. Our cosmological observable of interest is the mass power spectrum, and we make dedicated comparisons with that of cold dark matter to quantify the differences in the nonlinear growth of density perturbations in both models.
In vitro and ex vivo experimental models for evaluation of intranasal systemic drug delivery as well as direct nose‐to‐brain drug delivery
Authors: Haasbroek‐Pheiffer Anja , Van Niekerk Suzanne , Van der Kooy Frank , Cloete Theunis , Steenekamp Jan , Hamman Josias
Published: February 2023

The intranasal route of administration provides a noninvasive method to deliver drugs into the systemic circulation and/or directly into the brain. Direct nose‐to‐brain drug delivery offers the possibility to treat central nervous system diseases more effectively, as it can evade the blood–brain barrier. In vitro and ex vivo intranasal models provide a means to investigate physiological and pharmaceutical factors that could play a role in drug delivery across the nasal epithelium as well as to determine the mechanisms involved in drug absorption from the nose. The development and implementation of cost‐effective pharmacokinetic models for intranasal drug delivery with good in vitro‐in vivo correlation can accelerate pharmaceutical drug product development and improve economic and ecological aspects by reducing the time and costs spent on animal studies. Special considerations should be made with regard to the purpose of the in vitro/ex vivo study, namely, whether it is intended to predict systemic or brain delivery, source and site of tissue or cell sampling, viability window of selected model, and the experimental setup of diffusion chambers. The type of model implemented should suit the relevant needs and requirements of the project, researcher, and interlaboratory. This review aims to provide an overview of in vitro and ex vivo models that have been developed to study intranasal and direct nose‐to‐brain drug delivery.
Stratified modestly weighted log‐rank tests in settings with an anticipated delayed separation of survival curves
Authors: Magirr Dominic , Jiménez José L.
Published: February 2023

Delayed separation of survival curves is a common occurrence in confirmatory studies in immuno‐oncology. Many novel statistical methods that aim to efficiently capture potential long‐term survival improvements have been proposed in recent years. However, the vast majority do not consider stratification, which is a major limitation considering that most large confirmatory studies currently employ a stratified primary analysis. In this article, we combine recently proposed weighted log‐rank tests that have been designed to work well under a delayed separation of survival curves, with stratification by a baseline variable. The aim is to increase the efficiency of the test when the stratifying variable is highly prognostic for survival. As there are many potential ways to combine the two techniques, we compare several possibilities in an extensive simulation study. We also apply the techniques retrospectively to two recent randomized clinical trials.
Optofluidic identification of single microorganisms using fiber‐optical‐tweezer‐based Raman spectroscopy with artificial neural network
Authors: Lin Chenghong , Li Xiaofeng , Wu Tianli , Xu Jiaqi , Gong Zhiyong , Chen Taiheng , Li Baojun , Li Yuchao , Guo Jinghui , Zhang Yao
Published: February 2023

Rapid and accurate detection of microorganisms is critical to clinical diagnosis. As Raman spectroscopy promises label‐free and culture‐free detection of biomedical objects, it holds the potential to rapidly identify microorganisms in a single step. To stabilize the microorganism for spectrum collection and to increase the accuracy of real‐time identification, we propose an optofluidic method for single microorganism detection in microfluidics using optical‐tweezing‐based Raman spectroscopy with artificial neural network. A fiber optical tweezer was incorporated into a microfluidic channel to generate optical forces that trap different species of microorganisms at the tip of the tweezer and their Raman spectra were simultaneously collected. An artificial neural network was designed and employed to classify the Raman spectra of the microorganisms, and the identification accuracy reached 94.93%. This study provides a promising strategy for rapid and accurate diagnosis of microbial infection on a lab‐on‐a‐chip platform.
Metformin use and hospital attendance‐related resources utilization among diabetic patients with prostate cancer on androgen deprivation therapy: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Lee Yan Hiu Athena , Hui Jeremy Man Ho , Chung Cheuk To , Liu Kang , Dee Edward Christopher , Ng Kenrick , Tse Gary , Chan Jeffrey Shi Kai , Ng Chi Fai
Published: February 2023

Background

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), used increasingly in the treatment of prostate cancer (PCa), negatively influences glycemic control in diabetes and is associated with an increased risk of diabetes complications where hospitalization commonly ensues. Metformin could decrease the metabolic consequences of ADT and enhance its effect. This study examined the association of metformin use with healthcare resources utilization among diabetic, PCa patients receiving ADT.

Methods

Diabetic adults with PCa on ADT in Hong Kong between December 1999 and March 2021 were identified. Patients with <6 months of concurrent metformin and ADT use were excluded. All included patients were followed up until September 2021. The outcomes were hospital attendances and related costs.

Results

In total, 1,284 metformin users and 687 non‐users were studied. Over 8,045 person‐years, 9,049 accident and emergency (A&E), and 21,262 inpatient attendances, with 11,2781 days of hospitalization were observed. Metformin users had significantly fewer A&E attendances (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 0.61 [95% confidence interval 0.54–0.69], p < 0.001), inpatient attendances (IRR: 0.57 [0.48–0.67], p < 0.001), and days of hospitalization (IRR: 0.55 [0.42–0.72], p < 0.001). Annual attendance costs were lower for metformin users than non‐users (cost ratio: 0.28 [0.10–0.80], p = 0.017).

Conclusions

Metformin use was associated with decreased hospital attendances, days of hospitalization, and associated costs, which could help reduce healthcare resource utilization following ADT in the treatment of PCa.
Combined all‐trans retinoic acid with low‐dose apatinib in treatment of recurrent/metastatic head and neck adenoid cystic carcinoma: A single‐center, secondary analysis of a phase II study
Authors: Ye Lulu , Zhang Lin , Li Rongrong , Pan Xinhua , Li Jiang , Dou Shengjin , Jiang Wen , Wang Chong , Chen Wantao , Zhu Guopei
Published: February 2023

Background

Treatment options are limited for recurrent/metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M ACCHN). We aimed to evaluate the preliminary results of the efficacy and safety of all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) combined with low‐dose apatinib in patients with R/M ACCHN according to a secondary analysis of a phase II study.

Methods

Patients from a phase II study (NCT02775370) who orally administered 500 milligram (mg) apatinib daily until treatment‐related adverse events (AEs) intolerance or progression occurred were eligible for inclusion. Patients were further treated with combination therapy of ATRA (25 mg/m2/day) and apatinib (250 mg/day) between March 2019 and October 2021 until progression of disease (PD).

Results

A total of 16 patients were included with nine (56.3%) males and aged 35–69 years old. All recruited patients previously received anti‐angiogenic therapy then withdrew due to toxicities or progression occurred. The objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were 18.8% and 100%, respectively. During a median follow‐up of 23.9 months (range:17.8–31.7 months), 11 (68.8%) patients developed PD and one of them died in 20.9 months. The median of progression‐free survival (PFS) was 16.3 months (95% CI: 7.2–25.4 months), and the 6‐month, 12‐month, and 24‐month PFS rates were 100%, 81.3%, and 33.3%, respectively. The grade 3 adverse events were albuminuria (n = 2, 12.5%) and hand‐foot syndrome (n = 1, 6.25%).

Conclusion

All‐trans retinoic acid combined with low‐dose apatinib might be a potential efficacy therapeutic option for patients with R/M ACCHN. This finding will be further confirmed by our registered ongoing trial, the APLUS study (NCT 04433169).
Hepatic failure associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: An analysis of the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database
Authors: Xu Ye , Yan Cilin , Zhao Ying , Li Dandan , Guo Mingxing , Cui Xiangli
Published: February 2023

Background

Hepatic failure induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has been reported in only a few case series and case reports.

Objective

We aimed to explore the association between ICIs and hepatic failure and characterize the clinical features of ICI‐associated hepatic failure in the pharmacovigilance database.

Methods

Data from the first quarter (Q1) of 2015 to the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2021 in the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database were retrieved for disproportionality and Bayesian analysis. Reporting odds ratios (ROR) and information component (IC) were used to evaluate correlations between ICIs and hepatic failure.

Results

Hepatic failure occurred in 0.19% (18,454/9,647,655) of all cases in the FAERS database, of which 654 cases were associated with ICIs. The overall median time from ICIs initiation to hepatic failure onset was 38 days, 72.3% of the adverse events occurred within the first 3 months, and 68.65% of the cases died after developing hepatic failure. In general, a strong signal was shown between ICIs and hepatic failure (ROR025 = 2.70, IC025 = 1.39). For the three categories of ICIs, programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 inhibitors (ROR025 = 3.09, IC025 = 1.57) had a higher risk signal than programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitors and cytotoxic T lymphocyte‐associated protein 4 inhibitors. For monotherapy, atezolizumab showed the strongest risk signal (ROR025 = 4.07, IC025 = 1.90). The combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab showed stronger signals of hepatic failure compared with nivolumab or ipilimumab alone (nivolumab + ipilimumab vs. ipilimumab: ROR025 = 1.40, IC025 = 0.16; nivolumab + ipilimumab vs. nivolumab: ROR025 = 1.24, IC025 = 0.34). Considering the concomitant agents used with ICIs, the majority of these regimens showed stronger signals than ICI monotherapy, such as acetaminophen (ICIs + acetaminophen vs. ICIs: ROR025 = 1.06, IC025 = 0.32).

Conclusions

ICIs had possible strong signals associated with hepatic failure, and most cases of hepatic failure occurred within the first 3 months and had poor outcomes, which should attract clinical attention.
Cortisol response in children with cancer and fever during chemotherapy: A prospective, observational study using random serum cortisol levels
Authors: Boekstegers Ann , Schmidt Heinrich , Kurzay Mathias , Vallée Tanja , Jung Eva , Dubinski Ilja , Maxwell Rebecca , Schmid Irene
Published: February 2023

Background

Glucocorticoids are crucial components of the treatment of leukemia and lymphoma. High doses can lead to suppression of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and be causative for an impaired stress response during infection. This study aims to evaluate the cortisol response in pediatric oncologic patients during febrile episodes.

Methods

Totally, 75 children and adolescents (5 months—18 years) with fever during chemotherapy were consecutively enrolled in this study. In total, 47 patients received glucocorticoids as part of their treatment. Random serum cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) were analyzed in every patient. A low cortisol response (LCR) was defined as a cortisol level < 14.6 μg/dL.

Results

In total, 52 (69%) patients had a cortisol level < 14.6 μg/dL during fever. There was no significant difference between patients who received glucocorticoids and those who did not. Significantly lower cortisol levels were measured ≤7 days after last glucocorticoid intake compared to later time points. Nearly all patients treated with dexamethasone or prophylactic posaconazole demonstrated a LCR under stress (fever).

Conclusion

The incidence of an impaired HPA axis in pediatric cancer patients might be underestimated since 69% of the children in our study had a LCR during fever. Intake of dexamethasone, posaconazole and a time period of ≤7 days from the last glucocorticoid intake were additional risk factors for an LCR. However, we could not confirm that patients with a LCR fared worse than patients with a high cortisol response (HCR). Therefore, a different cortisol threshold may be necessary for defining an impaired HPA axis in febrile oncologic patients without concomitant symptoms of AI.
Synthesis, Antiproliferative Evaluation, and Molecular Docking Study of Novel Longifolene‐Derived Tetraline Fused Thiazole‐Amide Derivatives
Authors: Lan Hailang , Zhu Xiaping , Lin Guishan , Duan Wengui , Cui Yucheng , Li Fangyao , Li Dianpeng
Published: February 2023

Twenty novel longifolene‐derived tetraline fused thiazole‐amide compounds were synthesized from longifolene, a renewable natural resource. Their structures were characterized by FT‐IR, NMR, ESI‐MS, and elemental analysis. The in vitro antiproliferative activity of these compounds against SK‐OV‐3 ovarian cancer cell lines, MCF‐7 human breast cancer cell lines, HepG2 human liver cancer cell lines, A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines, and T‐24 human bladder cancer cell lines was tested by MTT assay. Compounds 6a–6c displayed significant and broad‐spectrum antiproliferative activity against almost the tested cancer cell lines with IC50 in the range of 7.84 to 55.88 μM, of which compound 6c exhibited excellent antiproliferative activities with 7.84 μM IC50 against SKOV‐3, 13.68 μM IC50 against HepG2, 15.69 μM IC50 against A549, 19.13 μM IC50 against MCF‐7, and 22.05 μM IC50 against T‐24, showing better and broad‐spectrum antiproliferative effect than that of the positive control 5‐FU. Furthermore, the action model was analyzed by the molecular docking study. Some intriguing structure‐activity relationships were found and discussed herein by DFT theoretical calculation.
Missed bronchial web in a 4‐year‐old boy with foreign body aspiration: A case report
Authors: Mirzandeh del Mahsa , Abedini Atefeh , Rahimi Fatemehsadat , Afaghi Siamak , Kiani Arda
Published: February 2023

Congenital bronchial webs are extremely rare and usually remain undiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms. Herein, we reported a 4‐year‐old case of the bronchial web who was initially undiagnosed upon bronchoscopy following foreign body aspiration and afterward misdiagnosed as childhood asthma through his consistent cough and exertional dyspnea for several months.
Synthesis, structural characterization, and chiroptical properties of planarly and axially chiral boranils
Authors: Macé Aurélie , Hamrouni Khaoula , Matozzo Paola , Coehlo Max , Firlej Jakub , Aloui Faouzi , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Caytan Elsa , Cordier Marie , Pieters Grégory , Srebro‐Hooper Monika , Berrée Fabienne , Carboni Bertrand , Crassous Jeanne
Published: February 2023

2‐Amino[2.2]paracyclophane reacts with salicylaldehyde or 2‐hydroxyacetophenone to yield imines that then give access to a new series of boranils (8b–d) upon complexation with BF2. These novel boron‐containing compounds display both planar and axial chiralities and were examined experimentally and computationally. In particular, their photophysical and chiroptical properties were studied and compared to newly prepared, simpler boranils (9a–d) exhibiting axial chirality only. Less sophisticated chiral architectures were shown to demonstrate overall stronger circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) activity.
Variable selection in additive models via hierarchical sparse penalty
Authors: Wen Canhong , Chen Anan , Wang Xueqin , Pan Wenliang ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: February 2023

As a popular tool for nonlinear models, additive models work efficiently with nonparametric estimation. However, naively applying the existing regularization method can result in misleading outcomes because of the basis sparsity in each variable. In this article, we consider variable selection in additive models via a combination of variable selection and basis selection, yielding a joint selection of variables and basis functions. A novel penalty function is proposed for basis selection to address the hierarchical structure as well as the sparsity assumption. Under some mild conditions, we establish theoretical properties including the support recovery consistency. We also derive the necessary and sufficient conditions for the estimator and develop an efficient algorithm based on it. Our new methodology and results are supported by simulation and real data examples.
Posttraumatic growth in colorectal cancer survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Wang Zhiming , Chen Xuan , Zhou Junrui , Loke Alice Yuen , Li Qiuping
Published: February 2023

Objective

The diagnosis of cancer is an adverse event; nevertheless, it can also exert positive changes on survivors, such as posttraumatic growth (PTG). This review aims to integrate researches on PTG in colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors, including manifestations and prevalence of PTG, factors associated with PTG and interventions on PTG.

Methods

A systematic search was implemented on six databases to identify studies on PTG in CRC survivors published in English or Chinese from October 1995 to May 2022. We also performed a manual search for additional studies from the article reference lists.

Results

Thirty‐one studies were included. The results were integrated based on the PTG theoretical framework and PTG affective–cognitive processing model. PTG manifests in CRC survivor–caregiver dyads in five domains, including personal growth, appreciation of life, relating to others, new possibilities and spiritual change. Factors correlated with PTG can be integrated into levels of personality, event cognitions, appraisal mechanisms, emotional states, coping and social environmental context. Elements of interventions can be integrated according to the affective–cognitive processing PTG model. Existing interventions are effective in promoting PTG in CRC survivors.

Conclusion

We provide a systematic perspective on studies targeting PTG in CRC survivors. PTG manifested in survivor–caregiver dyads. Factors associated with PTG in CRC survivors are significant, and the interventions are effective. An intervention programme based on the affective–cognitive processing model and focused on CRC survivor–caregiver dyads would be significant for the dyads facing cancer.
Yield improvement and yield components: A comparison of corn and soybean
Authors: Egli Dennis B.
Published: February 2023

Understanding how crop plants changed to accommodate historical yield improvement contributes to a fuller understanding of the response of the crop to management practices. Data sets of yield and plant population from field experiments for corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) were compiled from the literature to evaluate changes in yield and yield components. Most of the data came from management studies and, when there were differences among treatments, the highest‐yielding treatment was used. Yield plant−1 was calculated from yield and plant population. The data sets included both irrigated and non‐irrigated experiments with a total of 231 observations (1906 to 2019) for corn and 172 (1919 to 2018) for soybean. The yield data did not segregate by irrigation treatment, so the data were pooled for analyses. The yield increased linearly for both species (10.4 g m−2 d−1 for corn and 2.6 g m−2 d−1 for soybean). Plant population increased steadily for corn (fivefold) while there was no significant change for soybean. The consistent yield increase coupled with different population trends resulted in completely different trends in yield plant−1. Yield plant−1 increased in soybean while there was no change in corn. The soybean plant had the flexibility to accommodate the more than twofold increase in yield plant−1. The corn plant is potentially flexible, but the flexibility did not play a major role in hybrid improvement, so it was necessary to increase the population to accommodate higher yields.
A common ground switched capacitor‐based single‐phase five‐level transformerless inverter for photovoltaic application
Authors: Singh Neti Sukhdev , Singh Varsha
Published: February 2023

Transformerless inverters (TLI) are widely accepted in photovoltaic (PV) systems. With the application of TLI, the bulky transformer from the conventional system can be removed, enhancing the PV system's compactness, cost, and efficiency. The direct connection of PV to the grid through the TLI causes common mode voltage (CMV). The variation of CMV causes the leakage current (LC) in the TLI topology. This paper suggests a new topology of five‐level TLI for the PV system. The problem of LC is mitigated by providing common ground (CG) for both PV and the grid neutral. This topology uses only five switches, a diode, two DC link capacitors, and a switched capacitor (SC) to produce the five‐level output voltage. Only two switches are conducted for positive and negative voltage level generation. The charging current of the SC is limited by using the front‐end inductor. A level‐shifted pulse width modulation (LS‐PWM) is adopted for generating the gate pulses. A detailed mathematical approach has been suggested for the component selection and the losses associated with it through theoretical calculation and simulation. Further, an explicit comparative study is performed with existing similar kinds of topologies to claim the merits of the proposed topology. This topology is validated using both MATLAB/Simulink and the laboratory prototype model for a 1 kW system. It is observed that the voltage stress and current stress across the component are very less. Overall, the component count is reduced and helps to get an enhanced efficiency of 96.7%.
Prevalence and prognostic impact of left ventricular systolic dysfunction or pulmonary congestion after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Hamilton Eleonora , Desta Liyew , Lundberg Anna , Alfredsson Joakim , Christersson Christina , Erlinge David , Kellerth Thomas , Lindmark Krister , Omerovic Elmir , Reitan Christian , Jernberg Tomas
Published: February 2023

Aims

The aim was to describe the prevalence, characteristics, and outcome of patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) developing left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction or pulmonary congestion by applying different criteria to define the population.

Methods and results

In patients with MI included in the Swedish web‐system for enhancement and development of evidence‐based care in heart disease (SWEDEHEART) registry, four different sets of criteria were applied, creating four not mutually exclusive subsets of patients: patients with MI and ejection fraction (EF) < 50% and/or pulmonary congestion (subset 1); EF < 40% and/or pulmonary congestion (subset 2); EF < 40% and/or pulmonary congestion and at least one high‐risk feature (subset 3, PARADISE‐MI like); and EF < 50% and no diabetes mellitus (subset 4, DAPA‐MI like). Subsets 1, 2, 3, and 4 constituted 31.6%, 15.0%, 12.8%, and 22.8% of all patients with MI (n = 87 177), respectively. The age and prevalence of different co‐morbidities varied between subsets. For median age, 70 to 77, for diabetes mellitus, 22 to 33%; for chronic kidney disease, 22 to 38%, for prior MI, 17 to 21%, for atrial fibrillation, 7 to 14%, and for ST‐elevations, 38 to 50%. The cumulative incidence of death or heart failure hospitalization at 3 years was 17.4% (95% CI: 17.1–17.7%) in all MIs; 26.9% (26.3–27.4%) in subset 1; 37.6% (36.7–38.5%) in subset 2; 41.8% (40.7–42.8%) in subset 3; and 22.6% (22.0–23.2%) in subset 4.

Conclusions

Depending on the definition, LV systolic dysfunction or pulmonary congestion is present in 13–32% of all patients with MI and is associated with a two to three times higher risk of subsequent death or HF admission. There is a need to optimize management and improve outcomes for this high‐risk population.
Determinants of ejection fraction improvement in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Liu Dan , Hu Kai , Schregelmann Lena , Hammel Clara , Lengenfelder Björn Daniel , Ertl Georg , Frantz Stefan , Nordbeck Peter
Published: February 2023

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of dynamic changes in left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) for cardiovascular (CV) outcomes in an all‐comer heart failure (HF) population with reduced EF (HFrEF, EF < 40%). We sought to identify independent factors related to improvement in EF and to identify risk factors for increased risk of CV events in the subgroups of improved EF (iEF) and non‐improved EF (niEF), respecively.

Methods and results

This is a retrospective sub‐analysis from the REDEAL HF trial, which included consecutive patients with chronic HF who were hospitalized from July 2009 to December 2017. Baseline and follow‐up echocardiography data (interval ≥12 months) of 573 consecutive patients with HFrEF were analysed. iEF was defined as absolute improvement in EF ≥ 10% and follow‐up EF over 40%. The primary endpoint was defined as a composite endpoint of cardiovascular (CV) death, CV hospitalization, or appropriate implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) therapy for ventricular arrhythmia. EF improved in 37.2% of patients with HFrEF during follow‐up (median period of 17 months). iEF was independently associated with shorter HF duration (>4 vs. ≤4 years, odd ratio [OR] = 0.477, 95% CI 0.305–0.745), no coronary artery disease (CAD vs. no CAD, OR = 0.583, 95% CI 0.396–0.858), and no ICD implantation (ICD vs. no ICD, OR = 0.341, 95% CI 0.228–0.511). Compared with niEF, iEF was significantly and independently associated with lower all‐cause mortality (22.1% vs. 31.1%, P = 0.019; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.674, 95% CI 0.469–0.968), lower CV mortality (8.9% vs. 16.1%, P = 0.015; HR = 0.539, 95% CI 0.317–0.916), and lower CV events risk (27.2% vs. 49.2%, P < 0.001; HR 0.519, 95% CI 0.381–0.708), after adjustment for age, sex, duration of HF, and other clinical risk factors. Hypertension (HR = 2.452, P = 0.032) and elevated N‐terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP >1153 pg/mL, HR = 4.372, P < 0.001) were identified as independent risk factors for CV events in the iEF subgroup. ICD implantation (HR = 1.533, P = 0.011), elevated NT‐proBNP (HR = 1.626, P = 0.018), increased left atrial volume index (HR = 1.461, P = 0.021), reduced lateral mitral annular plane systolic excursion (HR = 1.478, P = 0.025), and reduced tricuspid plane systolic excursion (HR = 1.491, P = 0.039) were identified as risk factors for CV events in the niEF subgroup.

Conclusions

Improvement in EF is independently related to the longer survival and lower CV related mortality and hospitalization rate of HFrEF. Elevated baseline NT‐proBNP is identified as the strongest prognostic factor associated with increased CV events risk in HFrEF patients both with and without improved EF, regardless of age, sex, duration of HF, and other clinical risk factors.
Construction of a Bifunctional Pd(0)‐CALB@SiO2 Hybrid Catalyst for the Synthesis and Arylation of Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine in One Pot
Authors: Budhiraja Meenakshi , Ali Amjad , Tyagi Vikas
Published: February 2023

Herein, we describe an efficient strategy for the construction of enzyme‐metal biohybrid catalyst [Pd(0)‐CALB@SiO2] via encapsulation of Candida antarctica lipase B and Pd(0) within silica. Next, the applicability of the newly constructed biohybrid was demonstrated by catalyzing the sequence of Groebke‐Blackburn‐Bienayme (GBB) multicomponent reaction and Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling in a single‐pot to produce clinically significant imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine derivatives. Interestingly, both entities, i.e., CALB enzyme and Pd(0)‐metal of hybrid catalyst, exhibited good catalytic activity during this approach. Further, the generality of this protocol was explored by using differently substituted boronic acid, which gave related products in 49–87 % isolated yield. Next, the synthetic utility was proved by set‐up a gram scale reaction which provided the complementary product in 81 % yield. Also, the developed biohybrid was found to be reusable up to five catalytic cycles.
Enhanced pain sensitivity in obese patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome is partially reverted by treatment: An exploratory study
Authors: Lahaye Clément , Miolanne Magalie , Farigon Nicolas , Pereira Bruno , Dubray Claude , Beudin Patricia , Greil Annick , Boirie Yves
Published: February 2023

Background

Obesity is frequently associated with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSA) and chronic pain. OSA as well as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment may modulate the pain perception threshold (PT) in patients with obesity.

Methods

In this prospective, longitudinal study, all patients admitted for obesity assessment were screened for OSA by nocturnal polygraphy (SOMNOcheck®, IAH ≥10) and performed mechanical (Von Frey electronic device) and electrical (PainMatcher®) pain tests. Those with severe OSA were retested for PT 1 month after initiation of CPAP therapy. Newly diagnosed patients with severe OSA (hypopnea apnoea index >30) have been offered to start CPAP treatment.

Results

Among 85 patients, there were 27 OSA patients, aged between 40 ± 13.2 years with a BMI of 42 ± 7.2 kg/m2. Severe OSA patients (N = 11) showed a lower PT than non‐OSA patients (N = 58) during mechanical (177 ± 120 vs. 328 ± 136 g, p < 0.01) and electrical methods (7.4 ± 6.4 vs. 12.9 ± 6.7 stimulation duration steps; p = 0.03). In the severe OSA group (N = 7), an increased PT was observed 1 month after CPAP treatment during mechanical pain testing (298 ± 69 vs. 259 ± 68 g, p < 0.05), but not during electrical pain testing (11.5 ± 3.0 vs. 12.4 ± 3.8 stimulation duration steps, p = 0.50).

Conclusion

In patients with obesity, this exploratory study showed that the presence of an OSA is associated with a decreased PT, whereas implantation of a CPAP device tends to normalize pain perception.
An urgent call for the environmental sustainability of health systems: A ‘sextuple aim’ to care for patients, costs, providers, population equity and the planet
Authors: Alami Hassane , Lehoux Pascale , Miller Fiona A. , Shaw Sara E. , Fortin Jean‐Paul
Published: February 2023

Health systems have a duty to protect the health and well‐being of individuals and populations. Yet, healthcare contributes about 4.6% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Health systems need to question and improve established practices, assume strong environmental leadership, and aim for ambitious, sometimes radical, actions in favour of the climate. In this paper, we interrogate the suitability and feasibility of integrating the aim of ‘environmental sustainability’ to form the ‘Sextuple Aim.’ Environmental sustainability may be in tension with, but also a potential lever to meet the other cardinal aims: (1) quality and experience of patient care; (2) population health; (3) quality of work and satisfaction of healthcare providers; (4) equity and inclusion; and (5) cost reduction. We propose policy and practical avenues to help move towards the Sextuple Aim.
Analysis of serum calcium, sodium, potassium, zinc, and iron in patients with pre‐eclampsia in Bangladesh: A case–control study
Authors: Uddin S. M. Naim , Haque Mahmodul , Barek Md Abdul , Chowdhury Mohammad Nizam Uddin , Das Abhijit , Uddin Md. Giash , Islam Mohammad Safiqul
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims

Pre‐eclampsia is a particular type of pregnancy condition. Although the primary etiology of pre‐eclampsia is unclear, it hypothesizes that the alteration of trace elements and macro‐minerals may play a crucial function in the pathogenesis of Pre‐eclampsia. Therefore, our research sought to ascertain the serum level of trace elements (zinc, iron) and macro‐minerals (sodium, calcium, potassium) and their possible association with pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

The present study was conducted with 74 pre‐eclampsia pregnant women (case) and 118 pregnant women having normal blood pressure (controls). Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy determined the serum level of trace components and electrolytes.

Results

The researchers discovered notable differences in maternal age, gestational period, body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, hemoglobin, and creatinine level. Results of serum analysis revealed that calcium (52.06 ± 3.71 mg/L vs. 65.93 ± 2.57 mg/L, p < 0.05) and potassium (63.44 ± 5.33 mg/L vs. 102.54 ± 4.25 mg/L, p < 0.001) concentrations were substantially lower in the patient group than in control. Serum zinc (0.34 ± 0.02 mg/L vs. 0.52 ± 0.02 mg/L, p < 0.001) and iron (0.38 ± 0.03 mg/L vs. 0.46 ± 0.02 mg/L, p < 0.05) concentration were also considerably decreased in pre‐eclampsia participants compared with a pregnant normotensive group. Pearson's correlation research results in the patient group revealed a connection between trace elements or macro minerals. In addition, the systolic blood pressure was positively correlated with sodium (r = 0.392, p < 0.01) and negatively correlated with potassium (r = −0.257, p < 0.05) in the control group.

Conclusions

This study concludes that calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc levels were lower, whereas sodium levels were higher in Bangladeshi pre‐eclampsia patients compared to controls. These findings with Pearson's correlation and the inter‐element relationship between the patient and a control subject results can act as critical indication factors for patients with pre‐eclampsia in Bangladesh and, as a result, may require a higher intake of calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc for effective therapeutic intervention and reduce the intake of sodium.
“I definitely feel like a scientist”: Exploring science identity trajectories among Latinx students in a critical race theory‐informed undergraduate research experience
Authors: Vasquez‐Salgado Yolanda , Camacho Tissyana C. , López Isabel , Chavira Gabriela , Saetermoe Carrie L. , Khachikian Crist
Published: February 2023

The current study investigated science identity development among Latinx university students selected for a critical race theory (CRT)‐informed undergraduate research experience. Twenty students (12 female, 8 male; Mage = 22.00; SD = 2.77) enrolled in biomedical‐related majors at a 4‐year university responded to open‐ended questions regarding their identity as scientists at 2 weeks, 6 months, and 18 months after they began the program. Results illustrated a steady increase in the number of students identifying as scientists over 18 months. At 2 weeks into the program, only 35% of Latinx students felt like a scientist. At 6 months, 45% of Latinx students identified as a scientist. At 18 months, 70% of Latinx students reported feeling like a scientist. Results also revealed variation in science identity trajectories, with four trajectories viewed in the data: (1) consistent or fast achievement, (2) gradual achievement, (3) achievement adjustment, and (4) never reach achievement. The majority of students demonstrated a trajectory in which they reached science identity achievement (the feeling that they are “a scientist”). Our results provide evidence of the positive, longitudinal impact that a CRT‐informed curriculum has on the science identity development of Latinx students. Implications surrounding future research and strategies to facilitate long‐term Latinx student participation in the biomedical sciences are discussed.
The contribution of smoking and smokeless tobacco to oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma risk in the African oesophageal cancer corridor: Results from the ESCCAPE multicentre case‐control studies
Authors: Simba Hannah , Menya Diana , Mmbaga Blandina T. , Dzamalala Charles , Finch Peter , Mlombe Yohannie , Mremi Alex , Narh Clement T. , Schüz Joachim , McCormack Valerie
Published: February 2023

Tobacco use is a well‐established risk factor for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) but the extent of its contribution to the disease burden in the African oesophageal cancer corridor has not been comprehensively elucidated, including by type of tobacco use. We investigated the contribution of tobacco use (smoking and smokeless) to ESCC in Tanzania, Malawi and Kenya. Hospital‐based ESCC case‐control studies were conducted in the three countries. Incident cases and controls were interviewed using a comprehensive questionnaire which included questions on tobacco smoking and smokeless tobacco use. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) of ESCC associated with tobacco, adjusted for age, sex, alcohol use, religion, education and area of residence. One thousand two hundred seventy‐nine cases and 1345 controls were recruited between August 5, 2013, and May 24, 2020. Ever‐tobacco use was associated with increased ESCC risk in all countries: Tanzania (OR 3.09, 95%CI 1.83‐5.23), and in Malawi (OR 2.45, 95%CI 1.80‐3.33) and lesser in Kenya (OR 1.37, 95%CI 0.94‐2.00). Exclusive smokeless tobacco use was positively associated with ESCC risk, in Tanzania, Malawi and Kenya combined (OR 1.92, 95%CI 1.26‐2.92). ESCC risk increased with tobacco smoking intensity and duration of smoking. Tobacco use is an important risk factor of ESCC in Tanzania, Malawi and Kenya. Our study provides evidence that smoking and smokeless tobacco cessation are imperative in reducing ESCC risk.