bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Synchronous Videoconference in Bipolar Patients
Authors: Maluenda-Gatica Roberto , Schwannauer Matthias , MacBeth Angus
Published: April 2022

Background: A considerable literature has developed around demonstrating the clinical relevance of mentalizing as a construct. However, much of the emphasis has been on patients’ deficits rather than therapist’s abilities. Although it may be the case that therapist’s mentalization capacity can facilitate better outcomes in psychotherapy, there is a dearth of empirical evidence concerning the impact mentalization has on therapist competencies in psychotherapy and the implications of this in clinical practice dyads.

Methods/Design: A pilot study will use an integrated design. A longitudinal case series alongside a qualitative grounded theory approach will be utilized to develop a context-specific, grounded micro theory model of therapeutic alliance rupture and resolution during online psychotherapy with patients with bipolar disorder. 10 dyads of therapists and patients will be assessed by pre-and post-session outcome ratings, as well as baseline and post-therapy performance ratings during the four-month intervention period. In addition, semi-structured grounded theory interviews will be conducted with participants to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences during the therapeutic process.

Discussion: New research findings on videoconferencing-enabled clinical interventions have been needed since the COVID-19 pandemic began. According to an assessment of the available evidence, little is known about psychotherapy, and significant gaps remain. This paper describes a protocol of a pilot aimed to capture the explicit and implicit knowledge that emerge from therapists and patients during the therapeutic process in order to investigate the complex process of therapeutic interaction beyond “outcome effects”.
Influenza Vaccination Rates, and Barriers to Influenza Vaccination, in People who are Homeless
Authors: Karnik Varun Amod , McCosker Laura K , Downes Martin J , Ware Robert S , Kelso-Ribbe Jack , Hunt Jeremy , Bates Hannah , Toussaint Pele
Published: April 2022

Background: Influenza is a highly infectious virus which is endemic in most high-income countries. People experiencing homelessness are at an increased risk of contracting influenza, and often have poorer outcomes associated with hospitalisation and mortality. Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all adults, and highly recommended for ‘at-risk’ groups, including people who are homeless. Despite this, the vaccination uptake within the homeless community is low. This systematic review will identify influenza vaccination rates, and barriers to influenza vaccination, in people who are homeless.

 

Methods: This review will consider primary studies about influenza vaccination in people who are homeless. Searches will be undertaken on five electronic databases and managed in EndNote X9. The literature will be screened by title/abstract, then by full-text, and citation chaining will be completed. Data about the influenza vaccination rates and barriers will be extracted. Each task, primarily the screening and extraction of data, will be completed by one researcher, and checked by at least one other.

 

 

Discussion: This review will identify influenza vaccination rates, and barriers to influenza vaccination, in people experiencing homelessness. This will inform vaccination delivery and funding, and may contribute to reducing the health disparities in this at-risk, hard-to-reach population.
Exosomes and ferroptosis: roles in tumour regulation and new cancer therapies
Authors: Shi Yixin , Qiu Bingrun , Huang Linyang , Lin Jie , Li Yiling , Ze Yiting , Huang Chenglong , Yao Yang
Published: April 2022

Research on the biological role of exosomes is rapidly developing, and recent evidence suggests that exosomal effects involve ferroptosis. Exosomes derived from different tissues inhibit ferroptosis, which increases tumour cell chemoresistance. Therefore, exosome-mediated regulation of ferroptosis may be leveraged to design anticancer drugs. This review discusses three pathways of exosome-mediated inhibition of ferroptosis: (1) the Fenton reaction; (2) the ferroptosis defence system, including the Xc-GSH-GPX4 axis and the FSP1/CoQ10/NAD(P)H axis; and (3) lipid peroxidation. We also summarize three recent approaches for combining exosomes and ferroptosis in oncology therapy: (1) promoting exosome-inhibited ferroptosis to enhance chemotherapy; (2) encapsulating exosomes with ferroptosis inducers to inhibit cancers; and (3) developing therapies that combine exosomal inhibitors and ferroptosis inducers. This review will contribute toward establishing effective cancer therapies.
Lipids associated with plant-bacteria interaction identified using a metabolomics approach in an Arabidopsis thaliana model
Authors: Song Jian-Bo , Huang Rui-Ke , Guo Miao-Jie , Zhou Qian , Guo Rui , Zhang Shu-Yuan , Yao Jing-Wen , Bai Ya-Ni , Huang Xuan
Published: April 2022

Background

Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) protects plants against a wide variety of pathogens. In recent decades, numerous studies have focused on the induction of SAR, but its molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown.

Methods

We used a metabolomics approach based on ultra-high-performance liquid chromatographic (UPLC) and mass spectrometric (MS) techniques to identify SAR-related lipid metabolites in an Arabidopsis thaliana model. Multiple statistical analyses were used to identify the differentially regulated metabolites.

Results

Numerous lipids were implicated as potential factors in both plant basal resistance and SAR; these include species of phosphatidic acid (PA), monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG), phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and triacylglycerol (TG).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that lipids accumulated in both local and systemic leaves, while other lipids only accumulated in local leaves or in systemic leaves. PA (16:0_18:2), PE (34:5) and PE (16:0_18:2) had higher levels in both local leaves inoculated with Psm ES4326 or Psm avrRpm1 and systemic leaves of the plants locally infected with Psm avrRpm1 or Psm ES4326. PC (32:5) had high levels in leaves inoculated with Psm ES4326. Other differentially regulated metabolites, including PA (18:2_18:2), PA (16:0_18:3), PA (18:3_18:2), PE (16:0_18:3), PE (16:1_16:1), PE (34:4) and TGs showed higher levels in systemic leaves of the plants locally infected with Psm avrRpm1 or Psm ES4326. These findings will help direct future studies on the molecular mechanisms of SAR.
Study of Causality Between Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) and Indian Cotton Futures Prices
Authors: Devikarani K. T. , Mahendran K. , Ashok K. R. , Palanichamy N. Venkatesa
Published: April 2022

Cotton is the major fibre crop which is traded globally.  India is one of the major producer, consumer and exporter of cotton whereas US is one of the major producer and exporter of Cotton. Cotton 2.0 Futures in Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) has been the benchmark price for cotton across the world alongside Cotlook A index. In India, Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) cotton futures provides a platform for price discovery and price risk management for agriculturists, traders and processors. This study is carried on to identify the causality of price movements between ICE cotton futures and MCX cotton futures. It is identified that there exists a bidirectional causal relationship between Intercontinental Exchange and Multi-Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) cotton futures prices. Johansen Co-integration analysis and Vector Error Correction Model indicates the existence of long run and short run equilibrium relationship between ICE and MCX cotton futures price series. The study is helpful in establishing that ICE futures prices are also to be considered when making any price estimates by the spinning and other cotton related industry when making purchase and stocking decisions related to cotton.
Dry and Wet Spell Analysis and Moisture Adequacy Index (MAI) Estimation for Assessing the Agro Climatic Potentiality for Crop Planning in the Central Brahmaputra Valley Zone (CBVZ) of Assam, India
Authors: Goswami Jyotishman , Khanikar Punya Gogoi , Islam Athar Nisat , Medhi Kuldip , Kurmi Khagen
Published: April 2022

Analysis of rainfall and other weather parameters helps to develop and modify the management practices for stabilizing crop production and crop planning in the rainfed ecosystem at certain level. Lack of knowledge on wet and dry spell hampers scientific crop planning in the region. The present study has been undertaken with the objectives to investigate probable occurrence of dry and wet spell and to find out the Moisture Adequacy Index (MAI) for the districts of Nagaon and Morigaon under Central Brahmaputra Valley Zone (CBVZ) of Assam. In this study, Markov Chain model was used to estimate the initial, conditional probabilities of dry and wet weeks along with the probability of two and three consecutive wet and dry weeks considering 20 mm rainfall as threshold limit. MAI was calculated using Thornthwaite’s (1955) soil water balance method. The average rainfall of Nagaon and Morigaon were found to be 1775.27 mm and 1734.37 mm respectively. The study indicated that in CBVZ, probability of occurrence of dry week is higher from 1st week to 14th week. The range of probability varies from 56.7 per cent to 100 per cent during this period. The period from 25th week to 30th week is best suited for transplanting of sali rice with 100 per cent probability of wet spell and also continuously high MAI value of 1.0 throughout the period. The MAI value increases from 15th week with onset of pre-monsoon and ranges between 0.9-1.0 throughout the kharif period and then decreases with withdrawal of rainfall. Based on MAI values, the area is suitable for growing of a third crop using residual soil moisture. There is an ample scope for water harvesting from July to September, which can be utilized as crop saving irrigation as well as pre-sowing irrigation for succeeding rabi crops, which are generally sown on residual soil moisture. The results through analysis have been used for agricultural planning at CBVZ region.
Stability of Cracked Functionally Graded Graphene-Reinforced Beams under Magnetic Field
Authors: Zhou Lei , Song Mitao
Published: April 2022

This paper studies linear dynamic stability of cracked functionally graded (FG) graphene platelet (GPL)-reinforced composite laminated beams subjected to the combined action of magnetic field and a periodic axial force. GPL weight fraction follows a layer-wise variation across the beam thickness. Effective material properties are estimated by micromechanics models, and the bending stiffness of the cracked section is evaluated by a rotational spring model. The governing equation is derived by Ritz method and Lagrange equation within the framework of the first-order shear deformation theory. The linear principle unstable regions of the cracked beams are determined by Bolotin method. Numerical results show that magnetic field intensity, GPL distribution pattern, boundary condition, crack depth and location have significant influence on the linear dynamic stability behaviors of the cracked beams.
Biochemical, structural, and functional studies reveal that MAB_4324c from Mycobacterium abscessus is an active tandem repeat N‐acetyltransferase
Authors: Alsarraf Husam M. A. B. , Ung Kien Lam , Johansen Matt D. , Dimon Juliette , Olieric Vincent , Kremer Laurent , Blaise Mickaël
Published: April 2022

Mycobacterium abscessus is a pathogenic non‐tuberculous mycobacterium that possesses an intrinsic drug resistance profile. Several N‐acetyltransferases mediate drug resistance and/or participate in M. abscessus virulence. Mining the M. abscessus genome has revealed genes encoding additional N‐acetyltransferases whose functions remain uncharacterized, among them MAB_4324c. Here, we showed that the purified MAB_4324c protein is a N‐acetyltransferase able to acetylate small polyamine substrates. The crystal structure of MAB_4324c was solved at high resolution in complex with its cofactor, revealing the presence of two GCN5‐related N‐acetyltransferase domains and a cryptic binding site for NADPH. Genetic studies demonstrate that MAB_4324c is not essential for in vitro growth of M. abscessus; however, overexpression of the protein enhanced the uptake and survival of M. abscessus in THP‐1 macrophages.
Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging Nanomedicine for the Treatment of Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Dalan Rinkoo , Hu Zhenyu , Wang Jiong‐Wei , Chew Nicholas WS , Poh Kian‐Keong , Tan Ru‐San , Soong Tuck Wah , Dai Yunlu , Ye Lei , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: April 2022

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been shown to play key roles in the progression of diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia, which are independent risk factors that lead to atherosclerosis and the development of IHD. Engineered biomaterial‐based nanomedicines are under extensive investigation and exploration, serving as smart and multifunctional nanocarriers for synergistic therapeutic effect. Capitalizing on cell/molecule‐targeting drug delivery, nanomedicines present enhanced specificity and safety with favorable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Herein, the roles of ROS in both IHD and its risk factors are discussed, highlighting cardiovascular medications that have antioxidant properties, and summarizing the advantages, properties, and recent achievements of nanomedicines that have ROS scavenging capacity for the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, ischemia/reperfusion, and myocardial infarction. Finally, the current challenges of nanomedicines for ROS‐scavenging treatment of IHD and possible future directions are discussed from a clinical perspective.
Dehydrogenative Cycloisomerization/Arylation Sequence ofN‐Propargyl Carboxamides with Arenes by Iodine(III)‐Catalysis
Authors: Umakoshi Yuki , Takemoto Yusuke , Tsubouchi Akira , Zhdankin Viktor V. , Yoshimura Akira , Saito Akio
Published: April 2022

Dehydrogenative cycloisomerization/arylation sequence of heteroatom nucleophile‐tethered unactivated alkynes provides a facile and powerful approach to C−C bond formation between the generated heterocycles and unfunctionalized arenes. Here, we describe a hypervalent iodine(III)‐catalyzed synthesis of oxazoles concomitant with the introduction of aryl groups into side chain fromN‐propargyl carboxamides and arenes, representing first C(sp3)−C(sp2) bond formation by the catalytic dehydrogenative cycloisomerization/arylation reaction inexo‐digmodes.

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Bioinspired Co‐Design of Tactile Sensor and Deep Learning Algorithm for Human–Robot Interaction
Authors: Kong Depeng , Yang Geng , Pang Gaoyang , Ye Zhiqiu , Lv Honghao , Yu Zhangwei , Wang Fei , Wang Xi Vincent , Xu Kaichen , Yang Huayong
Published: April 2022

Robots equipped with bionic skins for enhancing the robot perception capability are increasingly deployed in wide applications ranging from healthcare to industry. Artificial intelligence algorithms that can provide bionic skins with efficient signal processing functions further accelerate the development of this trend. Inspired by the somatosensory processing hierarchy of humans, the bioinspired co‐design of a tactile sensor and a deep learning‐based algorithm is proposed herein, simplifying the sensor structure while providing computation‐enhanced tactile sensing performance. The soft piezoresistive sensor, based on the carbon black‐coated polyurethane sponge, offers a continuous sensing area. By utilizing a customized deep neural network (DNN), it can detect external tactile stimulus spatially continuously. Besides, a novel data augmentation method is developed based on the sensor's hexagonal structure that has a sixfold rotation symmetry. It can significantly enhance the generalization ability of the DNN model by enriching the collected training data with generated pseudo‐data. The functionality of the sensor and the robustness of the proposed data augmentation strategy are verified by precisely recognizing five touch modalities, illustrating a well‐generalized performance, and providing a promising application prospect in human–robot interaction.
Leaf trait association in relation to herbivore defense, drought resistance, and economics in a tropical invasive plant
Authors: Li Yang‐Ping , Feng Yu‐Long , Li Wei‐Tao , Tomlinson Kyle , Liao Zhi‐Yong , Zheng Yu‐Long , Zhang Jiao‐Lin
Published: April 2022

Premise

Exploring how functional traits vary and covary is important to understand plant responses to environmental change. However, we have limited understanding of the ways multiple functional traits vary and covary within invasive species.

Methods

We measured 12 leaf traits of an invasive plant Chromolaena odorata, associated with plant or leaf economics, herbivore defense, and drought resistance on 10 introduced populations from Asia and 12 native populations from South and Central America, selected across a broad range of climatic conditions, and grown in a common garden.

Results

Species' range and climatic conditions influenced leaf traits, but trait variation across climate space differed between the introduced and native ranges. Traits that confer defense against herbivores and drought resistance were associated with economic strategy, but the patterns differed by range. Plants from introduced populations that were at the fast‐return end of the spectrum (high photosynthetic capacity) had high physical defense traits (high trichome density), whereas plants from native populations that were at the fast‐return end of the spectrum had high drought escape traits (early leaf senescence and high percentage of withered shoots).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that invasive plants can rapidly adapt to novel environmental conditions. Chromolaena odorata showed multiple different functional trait covariation patterns and clines in the native and introduced ranges. Our results emphasize that interaction between multiple traits or functions should be considered when investigating the adaptive evolution of invasive plants.
Organic Ammonium Ion Battery: A New Strategy for a Nonmetallic Ion Energy Storage System
Authors: Zhang Haode , Tian Yu , Wang Wenxuan , Jian Zelang , Chen Wen
Published: April 2022

Nonmetallic ammonium (NH4+) ion batteries are promising candidates for large‐scale energy storage systems, which have the merit of low molar mass, sustainability, non‐toxicity and non‐dendrite. Herein, for the first time, we introduce the novel organic ammonium ion batteries (OAIBs). Significantly, a manganese‐based Prussian white analogue (noted as MnHCF) as cathode exhibits a reversible capacity of 104 mAh g−1with 98 % retention over 100 cycles. We further demonstrate the electrochemical performance of the NH4+ion full cell, which delivers a reversible capacity of 45 mAh g−1with a broad electrochemical window. Combining ex situ XPS, ex situ XRD results and electrochemical properties, the NH4+ion storage mechanism of MnHCF in a non‐aqueous electrolyte is clearly revealed. This work verifies the feasibility of employing NH4+ions as charge carriers in organic energy storage systems and provides new insights for designing organic nonmetallic ion batteries with broad electrochemical windows and high energy density.
Anisotropy in a 2D Perovskite Ferroelectric Drives Self‐Powered Polarization‐Sensitive Photoresponse for Ultraviolet Solar‐Blind Polarized‐Light Detection
Authors: Lu Lei , Weng Wen , Ma Yu , Liu Yi , Han Shiguo , Liu Xitao , Xu Haojie , Lin Wenxiong , Sun Zhihua , Luo Junhua
Published: April 2022

Polarized‐light detection in the deep ultraviolet solar‐blind region is indispensable for optoelectronic applications. 2D hybrid perovskite ferroelectrics with inherent anisotropy and bulk photovoltaic effect (BPVE) have become a robust candidate in this portfolio. We here report a wide band‐gap 2D perovskite ferroelectric, (isobutylammonium)2(methylamium)Pb2Cl7 (1), in which the BPVE behaves as self‐driving source for solar‐blind ultraviolet polarized‐light detection. It exhibits a large dichroism ratio (≈15.7) and superior BPVE‐directed photocurrent (≈3.6 μA cm−2, under 266 nm). These attributes facilitate excellent self‐powered polarized‐light detection of high on/off contrast (≈103) and polarization ratio (≈2.5), beyond those of inorganic oxides (e.g., ZnO, 1.47; GaN, 1.38). This study highlights potential of 2D perovskite ferroelectrics for new optoelectronic application.
Liquid Na/K Alloy Interfacial Synthesis of Functional Porous Carbon at Ambient Temperature
Authors: Tang Duihai , Wang Tao , Zhang Wenting , Zhao Zhen , Zhang Ling , Qiao Zhen‐An
Published: April 2022

The functional groups in porous carbon generally suffer a severe loss during the high‐temperature carbonization. Instead, the low‐temperature synthesis of carbon featuring porous structures and abundant functional groups is not only a solution that evades the pitfalls of pyrolysis but also is of significance for the development of synthetic methodology. Herein, a liquid metal interfacial engineering strategy is reported for the synthesis of porous carbon using CCl4 as the carbon precursor and sodium‐potassium alloy (NaK) as the reducing agent, which is superior to traditional synthetic methods because it enables the engineering of a highly active liquid metal alloy microemulsion to directly generate porous carbon at ambient temperature. As synthesized porous carbon featured abundant carbon‐chlorine bonds can be tandem‐grafted with imidazole and 1,2‐dibromoethane to achieve a CO2 cycloaddition catalyst, which exhibits excellent catalytic activity, in addition to exceptional stability.
Infection of Metarhizium anisopliae Ma6 and defense responses of host Phyllotreta striolata adults
Authors: Li Jianyu , Chen Yanting , He Yuechao , Zheng Lizhen , Fu Jianwei , Shi Mengzhu
Published: April 2022

Entomopathogenic fungus as biological control agent plays a crucial role in the integrated management of insect pests. Metarhizium anisopliae Ma6 has been identified as a highly pathogenic strain against Phyllotreta striolata (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), one of the most economically important and dominant insect pests damaging Brassica plants. The infection of M. anisopliae Ma6 on P. striolata was observed under stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and biochemical defense responses of P. striolata adults after infection were investigated. The changes in total amino acids and free fatty acids, and the activities of protective enzymes, including catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), in P. striolata adults were measured. In stereomicroscopy and SEM observations, a large number of mycelia were observed on the body surface of P. striolata on the 5th day after treatment by M. anisopliae. Many conidia were germinated and covered the body of P. striolata on the 7th day after treatment. The free fatty acid, total amino acid, CAT, POD, and SOD activities all showed an increased and then decreased trend. These results suggest that entomopathogenic fungal infection triggers the defense response of hosts, which induces changes in nutrients and antioxidant enzymes in P. striolata adults. Our findings provide useful information for understanding the potential for using M. anisopliae Ma6 as a biocontrol agent.
Sliding mode learning control for T‐S fuzzy system and an application to hypersonic flight vehicle
Authors: Hu Xiaoxiang , Guo Chenguang , Hu Changhua , He Bing
Published: April 2022

Sliding mode‐based learning control is presented for T‐S fuzzy system. A T‐S fuzzy model with both uncertainties and unmodeled dynamics is proposed firstly, in which the information of uncertainties and unmodeled dynamics are assumed to be unknown. Then, according to a given reference model, state‐tracking error system is built. Respecting facts, the input matrices of the built T‐S fuzzy model are different from each other. An extended state observer is built for estimating the unknown uncertainties and unmodeled dynamics, and a corresponding sliding surface is proposed. A learning controller is then presented for the closed loop system. Moreover, a numerical simulation result on hypersonic flight vehicles is considered to testify the controller's availability.
The effect of augmented reality in mobile applications on consumers' online impulse purchase intention: The mediating role of perceived value
Authors: Trivedi Jay , Kasilingam Dharun , Arora Parvinder , Soni Sigma
Published: April 2022

The relationship between augmented reality (AR) in mobile applications and consumers' online impulse purchase intention is still at its nascent stage. This study focuses on the cosmetics category under online purchase. Firstly, it examines the relationship between women consumers' motivation to use AR in the mobile app, vis a vis perceived quality of augmentation on perceived value. Secondly, it also tests the relationship between perceived value and impulsive online purchase. Thirdly, it examines the mediating role of perceived value between two exogenous variables and impulsive intention of online purchase. Further, it tests the moderating role of product involvement between perceived value and impulsive intention of online purchase. We collected data from 343 millennial women respondents and analyzed them using PLS‐SEM. The results highlight that AR in mobile applications can lead to impulsive purchase intentions among millennial women.
High‐Throughput Screening of Signal Peptide Library with Novel Fluorescent Probe
Authors: Shen Ji‐Dong , Cai Xue , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Zheng Yu‐Guo
Published: April 2022

Nitrile hydratase (NHase) is an excellent biocatalyst for the synthesis of amide compounds and is composed of two heterologous subunits. However, the secretory expression of NHase has been difficult to achieve because of its complex expression mechanism. In this work, a novel fluorescent probe Rho‐IDA‐CoII was synthesized by a one‐pot method. Rho‐IDA‐CoII could specifically label His‐tagged proteins in vitro, such as for staining in‐gel, Western blot, and ELISA analysis. Furthermore, Rho‐IDA‐CoII combined with dot blots could quantitatively detect His‐tagged proteins at between 1–10 pmol and perform high‐throughput screening for the NHase signal peptide library. Recombinant Bacillus subtilis WB800/phoB‐HBA with the extracellular expression of NHase was screened (ca. 6500 clones). After optimization of fermentation conditions, the NHase activity in the culture supernatant reached 17.34±0.16 U/mL. This is the first time that secretory NHase has been expressed in B. subtilis successfully.
COVID‐19 infection in an infant with cystic fibrosis: A case report and possible therapeutic effect of hypertonic saline
Authors: Seyedi Seyed Javad , Sadeghi Hossein , Kianifar Hamid‐Reza , Hamedi Abdolkarim , Saeidinia Amin
Published: April 2022

Pulmonary infections represent the major causes of morbidity and mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF). Here, we report a 3‐month‐old infant with pancreatic insufficient CF was hospitalized with positive RT‐PCR test for COVID‐19. He was treated successfully. Hypertonic saline can be hypothesized as a treatment regimen against COVID‐19 infection after further investigations.
Primary amenorrhea secondary to imperforate hymen
Authors: Ramdani Hanae , Benbrahim Fatima Zohra , Jidal Manal , Zamani Ouijdane , Drissi Mohammed , En‐Nouali Hassan , El Fenni Jamal
Published: April 2022

Hymen imperforation is uncommon. Symptoms include primary amenorrhea, cyclical lower abdominal pain, and rarely a pelvic mass syndrome. Delayed discovery may lead to endometriosis and infertility. Pelvic ultrasound and nuclear magnetic resonance detect associated genito‐urinary malformations. Hymenectomy is the standard surgical treatment.
Impact of N‐Aryl‐ and NHC Core‐Substituents on the Coupling of Alkylzinc Nucleophiles: Is Bigger always Better?
Authors: Eckert Philip , Organ Michael G.
Published: April 2022

Bulky Pd−N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalysts (e. g., N‐(di‐2,6‐(3‐pentyl)phenyl), IPent) have been shown to have significantly higher reactivity in a wide variety of cross‐coupling applications (i. e., C−C, C−S, C−N) than less hindered variants (e. g., N‐(di‐2,6‐(isopropyl)phenyl), IPr). Further, chlorinating the backbone of the NHC ring sees an even greater increase in reactivity. In the cross‐coupling of (hetero)aryl electrophiles to secondary alkyl nucleophiles, making the N‐aryl groups larger reduces the amount of β‐hydride elimination leading to alkene byproducts and chlorinating the NHC core had an even greater effect, all but eliminating alkene formation. In the present study involving the cross‐coupling of primary alkyl electrophiles and nucleophiles, a sharp and surprising reversal of all of the above trends was observed. Bulkier catalysts had generally slower rate of reaction and β‐hydride elimination worsened leading to extensive amounts of alkene byproducts.
Wie verändert sich die Reaktions‐ und Reaktortechnik durch die Elektrifizierung chemischer Prozesse?
Authors: Freund Hannsjörg , Sauer Jörg , Wachsen Olaf
Published: April 2022

No abstract.
Changes in properties of H2 molecules at the fluid–fluid phase transition in warm dense hydrogen
Authors: Sartan Roman A.
Published: April 2022

The warm dense hydrogen is studied in the region of the fluid–fluid phase transition in the density functional theory framework. A formalized definition of the term “molecule” based on geometry is proposed for calculating the concentration of molecules H2 and their lifetime. Correlations between density, conductivity, H2 molecules' lifetime, interatomic distance, and their dissociation degree are studied. The transition from molecular fluid to atomic fluid is not abrupt, while there is a drastic change in the H2 molecules' lifetime at the density, where the phase transition occurs. It can be interpreted as the ionization of H2 to plus e− at the phase transition, and the start of dissociation of to H plus H+ right after the phase transition.
Racism, Not Race: A Physician Perspective on Anti‐Black Racism in America
Authors: Clayborne Elizabeth P.
Published: April 2022

In this commentary, which responds to the article “Anti‐Black Racism as a Chronic Condition,” by Nneka Sederstrom and Tamika Lasege, I draw on my experience as a physician who cares for a largely Black patient population. Physicians are trained to “first do no harm” and strive to treat patients to the best of their abilities. However well intentioned, many of us fall short of this goal and witness the consequences of health inequities that disproportionally impact the lives of Black patients. Recent years have brought increased acknowledgment and understanding of social determinants of health, but these modest changes fail to identify the true culprit of health disparities. Racism, not race, is responsible for the negative outcomes that we see in our communities of color. Both subtle and overt forms of systemic racism plague the educational systems and scientific metrics of medicine in the United States. Physicians’ training, culture, and biases are founded in White norms. To decenter Whiteness as a normality, medicine must enact a multipronged approach that begins with increasing the diversity of physicians and providers to better reflect the patients that they care for. Bioethicists must publicly state that racism is real and that we are dedicated to changing it, but to get beyond statements, we must also have a measure of improvement and success in battling racism.
Anti‐Black Racism and Power: Centering Black Scholars to Achieve Health Equity
Authors: Best Alicia L.
Published: April 2022

In health equity research, anti‐Black racism and power imbalances manifest at every phase of the research process and contribute to the marginalization and exclusion of Black scholars. This essay highlights how power operates as a central component of anti‐Black racism, and I describe the importance of centering Black scholars in funding, conducting, and implementing health equity research. Interdisciplinary collaboration between the fields of bioethics, public health ethics, and health equity could generate dialogue and develop recommendations to help balance power dynamics, address anti‐Black racism, and, ultimately, make meaningful progress toward health equity.
Holding Them Accountable: Organizational Commitments to Ending Systemic Anti‐Black Racism in Medicine and Public Health
Authors: Ray Keisha S.
Published: April 2022

In this essay, I detail commitments that some of the major health organizations—the American Medical Association, the American Public Health Association, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—have made to addressing anti‐Black racism and discuss their policies meant to curtail racism's effects on health equity. Although these organizations’ historical lack of action has contributed to a culture of anti‐Black racism in health care and public health and many Black people have suffered because of it, progress has to begin somewhere, and outlining their future actions is a good start. Now, bioethicists, with our expertise in how historic policies connect to contemporary disparate health outcomes and access to health care, are in a position to hold these organizations accountable for fulfilling their commitments.
Black and Waiting: Bioethics and Care during the Covid‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Collins Mali
Published: April 2022

In this essay, a Black scholar of the cultural histories of Black women's reproductive lives launches a discussion of generations of racism, health inequities, and violence against Black bodies by looking at Black poet and essayist Dionne Brand's critique of the notion of returning to “the normal” after the Covid‐19 pandemic. To what, the essay asks, is everyone so eager to return? The intergenerational wait for Black people's moment of racial reckoning is its own unique biomedical warfare, which cannot end with the end of a pandemic. This warfare undercuts Black people's daily health with anxiety and depression, altering the very chromosomes passed down to their children. To health care providers, bioethicists, and those who practice antiracist health work the author poses these questions: How will you confront anti‐Black racism within every formulation of “treatment”—diagnosis, care, medication distribution, physical therapy? How long will the violence against Black lives be dissolved into talking points about our bodies? How can one listen, ethically, to Black people? These, she asserts, are questions of practice, of politics, and of care.
A Call for Solidarity in Bioethics: Confronting Anti‐Black Racism Together
Authors: Hiratsuka Vanessa Y.
Published: April 2022

In this short piece, an Indigenous, community‐based public health researcher who supported the development of this special report describes this collection as a call for all bioethicists to work together for justice, and she highlights the importance of listening to the truths spoken in this report and of amplifying its messages.
Study to assess the utility of discrete event simulation software in projection & optimization of resources in the out‐patient department at an apex cancer institute in India
Authors: Singh Angel Rajan , Gupta Anant , Satpathy Sidhartha , Gowda Naveen
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims

A study was done to create and run a discrete event simulation in the outpatient department (OPD) of a tertiary care cancer hospital in North India to project and optimize resource deployment.

Methods

The OPD process & workflow as per the expected load at tertiary care cancer hospital were finalized with various stakeholders in a focused group discussion. The finalized OPD process & workflow along with the OPD Building plans were utilized to develop a discrete event simulation model for the OPD at a tertiary care cancer hospital using a discrete event simulator. The simulation model thus developed was tested with incremental patient loads in 5 different scenarios/“What if” situations (Scenario 1–5). The data regarding initial patient load and resources deployed was taken from on‐ground observations at the tertiary care cancer hospital.

Results

It was found that rooms and doctors were over‐utilized and support staff utilization remained low. This was implemented with a lesser waiting time for patients. No additional support staff was provided thus improving utilization of existing staff and saving on resources. The simulations enabled us to deploy resources just when it was required, which ensured optimal utilization and better efficiency. The peak census helped us to determine the capacity of the waiting area in different scenarios with incremental patient load and resource deployment.

Conclusion

The simulation software was very helpful, as “what if scenarios” could be created and the system tested, without disturbing the normal functioning of OPD. This enabled decision‐making before making on‐ground changes which saved a lot of time and money. Also, the processes of the old system were reengineered to fit the needs of changing times.
Successful treatment of BK virus‐associated severe hemorrhagic cystitis with bilateral single‐J ureteral stenting
Authors: Fujita Akira , Kobatake Kohei , Fukushima Takafumi , Takemoto Kenshiro , Miyamoto Syunsuke , Kitano Hiroyuki , Ikeda Kenichiro , Goto Keisuke , Hieda Keisuke , Karakawa Shuhei , Hayashi Tetsutaro , Teishima Jun , Hinata Nobuyuki
Published: April 2022

Introduction

BK virus‐associated hemorrhagic cystitis is a significant complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Although severe BK virus‐associated hemorrhagic cystitis is associated with treatment‐related mortality, sufficient evidence regarding its management is lacking.

Case presentation

A 14‐year‐old boy presented with BK virus‐associated hemorrhagic cystitis and bladder clot retention after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Various urological interventions failed to improve cystitis. While bladder clot retention frequently recurred, surgical intervention was difficult because of the underlying hematological disorder. Hence, bilateral single‐J ureteral stenting followed by Foley catheter placement was performed as a urinary diversion. The bladder clot completely disappeared 27 days after stenting. No additional procedure was required. BK virus‐associated hemorrhagic cystitis did not recur after the blood clot disappeared.

Conclusion

Bilateral single‐J ureteral stenting followed by Foley catheter placement is a simple and effective treatment method and should be considered before surgical intervention for severe BK virus‐associated hemorrhagic cystitis.
Water table dynamics between two adjacent subsurface drainage laterals in a paddy field: A newly improved analytical solution
Authors: Jafari Talukolaee Mehdi , Shahnazari Ali , Ritzema Henk
Published: April 2022

Installation of subsurface drainage systems in paddy fields is crucial to achieve the feasibility of year‐round cropping and high productivity and to create more conducive working conditions for the use of farm machinery. Therefore, three subsurface drainage systems were installed in a paddy field located in northern Iran to control the water table (WT) during the rainy seasons. To predict the WT between subsurface drainage systems in the field, an analytical solution of two‐dimensional transient saturated flow was presented using the Bear equation. In the next step, a modified procedure was developed to separately involve the vertical head due to the existence of clayey and layered soils in the studied field. The results of the solutions were compared with the collected field data. The obtained results for the WT profile indicated that the modified procedure had a better agreement with the field data (9%–13% differences) in comparison with the conventional two‐dimensional solution (23%–75% differences). This revealed that considering the vertical head in the media cannot be ignored in analytical or numerical simulations of WT dynamics. As a concluding result, the modified procedure was found to be more efficient in paddy field drainage design.
Product market competition and operating leverage: International evidence*
Authors: Babar Md. , Habib Ahsan
Published: April 2022

This study examines the association between product market competition (PMC) and operating leverage for a large sample of international firms from 46 countries spanning the period 1985–2019. Using the Herfindahl‐Hirschman (HH) index and the Industry Adjusted Price Cost Margin (IPCM) as two proxies for PMC, we provide evidence that PMC is significantly and positively associated with the operating leverage of firms. Cross‐sectional analyses reveal that investment intensity, firm life cycle and the country‐level employment protection legislation moderate the relationship between PMC and operating leverage. This study contributes to the scarce literature on the determinants of operating leverage. We expect our findings to be informative for investors in understanding the role market competition plays in shaping cost structures.
Social prescribing from the patient's perspective: A literature review
Authors: Araki Kazuo , Takahashi Yoshimitsu , Okada Hiroshi , Nakayama Takeo
Published: April 2022

Social prescribing (SP) has aroused widespread interest across countries. SP is a way of linking patients in primary care with sources of support within the community by empowering patients to coproduce solutions to improve their health and well‐being. While previous research has demonstrated that SP contributes to reducing the total cost of the National Health Service, the analysis of its effects on patients is still inadequate. This literature review critically evaluated SP from the patient's perspective through the lens of medical anthropology. The review was made with respect to the three key concepts: treatment evaluation, coproduction, and empowerment. The study revealed that SP services in the UK enabled patients to feel comfort in many cases, but general practitioners, link workers, and patients should be collaborative with each other, and their interrelationships should not be hierarchical. Nevertheless, certain modifications may be needed to introduce SP in other healthcare systems.
Use of natural low‐methoxyl pectin from sunflower by‐products for the formulation of low‐sucrose strawberry jams
Authors: Muñoz‐Almagro Nerea , Garrido‐Galand Sara , Taladrid Diego , Moreno‐Arribas M. Victoria , Villamiel Mar , Montilla Antonia
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Due to the increasing incidence of obesity and cardiovascular diseases, consumers are demanding products with lower sugar content. In this sense, the reformulation of traditional foods with improved, safe and tasty ingredients is arousing a huge interest. Jams are conventionally produced with elevated amounts of sucrose, which increase the glycaemic index and must be avoided in certain kinds of consumers.

RESULTS

This paper describes for the first time the elaboration of strawberry jams using low‐methoxyl pectins from sunflower by‐products, which allowed the addition of low amounts of sucrose (10–30%). These jams were compared with best‐selling commercial samples. An in‐depth physicochemical, compositional, sensorial and rheological characterization was carried out. The obtained jams were safe considering aw and pH values; samples presented enough acidity to avoid microorganism development and syneresis. The stabilizing role of sunflower pectin is noteworthy in terms of colour and other physicochemical characteristics. The organoleptic analysis showed that the taste and sweetness of laboratory samples were highly valued, although the presence of pieces of fruits was disliked some panellists. After knowing the content of added sugar used in each jam, the tasters preferred samples with 20% and 30% of sucrose over commercial samples.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show the usefulness of sunflower pectin for the elaboration of jams of low glycaemic index. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of Current Triological Society Thesis Trends and Membership Demographics
Authors: Lee Kenneth H. , Thompson Dana M. , Pensak Myles L.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

(1) Identify the time required for completion, submission, and acceptance of a Triological Thesis and trends for thesis acceptance. (2) Determine the current Triological Society demographics and identify variances based on separated age groups of the current membership.

Study Design

Retrospective review of The Triological Society database and survey of candidates and fellows.

Methods

Data from the records of all candidates and fellows of the Triological Society were reviewed to determine the number of years from candidate to active fellow status for all members inducted into the Triological Society from 1990 to 2018. In addition, all current candidates, active and senior fellows were surveyed online to capture demographic data and opinions regarding the Triological Society.

Results

Since 1990, there has been a steady increase in the number of candidates and theses accepted. Of candidates successfully completing theses, 73% did so within 3 years and 90% within 5 years. Based on the 514 of 809 (64%) active and senior fellows responding to the survey, 83% reported being male and 15% female. Also, 73% reported as Caucasian, 12% Asian, 2% Hispanic, 2% Black, 0% Native American, and 2% Mixed Race. Of the 93 of 178 (52%) active candidates (those authorized to prepare a thesis) responding to the survey, 70% reported as male, 28% female, 58% Caucasian, 17% Asian, 6% Hispanic, 5% Black, 0% Native American, and 3% Mixed Race.

Conclusions

The Triological Society continues to grow, and its membership is becoming more diverse, including more women and wider ethnic diversity. Candidates should plan for submitting their thesis as early as possible as data demonstrates the greatest likelihood of success if done within 3 years.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 133:73–78, 2023
How board diversity and ownership structure shape sustainable corporate performance
Authors: Khan Ajab , Baker H. Kent
Published: April 2022

This study investigates how demographic board diversity and ownership structure shape Turkish firms' sustainable corporate performance (SCP) between 2013 and 2019. We use a panel dataset of 67 Borsa Istanbul (BIST) 100 indexed non‐financial and non‐utility firms. Based on logit and probit regression estimations, our empirical findings confirm that board diversity factors, including gender, nationality, experience, educational level, and tenure, are statistically significant and positively related to SCP. Contrary to expectations, ownership concentration has a significantly positive association with SCP. This study contributes insights about Turkish firms' board diversity that have practical implications for companies, regulators, and policymakers.
First report of Apple stem grooving virus and Apple scar skin viroid infecting low‐chilling apple varieties in India
Authors: Rani A. , Lohan S. , Srivastava A. , Kaushik N. K. , Noorani Md. S. , Walia Y. , Dhir S.
Published: April 2022

Low‐chilling apple varieties are gaining attention in plain regions with high temperatures but viruses are also adapting to these conditions. In this report, we have characterized Apple stem grooving virus and Apple scar skin viroid from the low‐chilling apple samples collected from district District Mandla of Madhya Pradesh and Kangra of Himachal Pradesh, India. To our knowledge, this is the first report of ASGV and ASSVd infecting low‐chilling apple varieties in India.