bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneous impacts of the spot check‐list program in US crop insurance: A disaggregated analysis at the crop level
Authors: Park Sungkwol , Zheng Xiaoyong
Published: December 2022

This article examines the heterogeneous impacts of the “Spot Check List” (SCL) on producer claims filing behavior across five major crops. Our proposed empirical approach takes into account all the salient data features, namely, state dependence, nonnegativeness of the dependent variable, two‐way fixed effects, observed heterogeneity, as well as potentially endogenous control variables. Our results show that the SCL program is effective in reducing the amount of claims filed by producers of corn, soybeans, and cotton, but there is no evidence that it has a statistically significant impact on producers of wheat and tobacco.
Reducing food insecurity through equitable investments in irrigation: The case of Niger
Authors: Kafle Kashi , Balasubramanya Soumya
Published: December 2022

We use Niger as a case study to examine the relationship between irrigation and household food security controlling for the point of crop harvest sales. We use longitudinal household and agriculture data collected by the Living Standards Measurement Study. Using panel fixed effects, we find that irrigation was associated with a 10% decrease in food insecurity, a 9% increase in food consumption expenditure, and improved dietary diversity. Farmers using irrigation experienced higher cash incomes, sold a higher share of the harvest, and had higher crop revenues. Access to irrigation was also positively correlated with the consumption of nutritious food items such as fruits, vegetables, and meat products. Importantly, these effects were found for both farmers using irrigation that primarily sold their harvest locally to neighbors and village shops, as well as for farmers using irrigation who sold in bulk to regional or national traders. Results suggest that investing in irrigation can improve food security, even in areas with limited access to formal markets.
Tobacco‐free policy reduces combustible tobacco byproduct on a large university campus
Authors: Gelino Brett W. , Salzer Allyson R. , Harsin Joshua D. , Naudé Gideon P. , Gilroy Shawn P. , Reed Derek D.
Published: December 2022

Policy drives community‐level behavior change, so behavior analysts should aid empirical policy development. University campus regulation is a useful proxy for broader policy initiatives and thus is a convenient inroad for behavior analyst involvement. This paper examines behavior analytic contributions to the planning and evaluation of a university tobacco‐free initiative. We provided resources and guidance throughout early planning, and we then evaluated faculty and student compliance via byproduct (e.g., cigarette butts) counts taken at four high‐traffic sites (as flagged by preliminary surveying of campus faculty, staff, and students). Visual analysis and supplementary statistical testing support notions of (a) a meaningful and sustained reduction of combustible tobacco byproducts in all locations, and (b) a demonstrative example of behavior analytic involvement with university policy planning and evaluation.
The use of cardiac ultrasound imaging in first‐trimester prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart diseases
Authors: Ximenes Renato Silveira , Bravo‐Valenzuela Nathalie Jeanne , Pares David Baptista Silva , Araujo Júnior Edward
Published: December 2022

This study aims to explore ultrasound (US) cardiac and echocardiographic features that may enable the early diagnosis of various major congenital heart diseases (CHDs). Focusing on providing useful US tools for this assessment, high resolution of US cardiac images of various CHDs, such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome, conotruncal anomalies, and univentricular heart, were evaluated. Results show that early US detection of most major CHDs is feasible during first‐trimester ultrasonography cardiac evaluation. Concerns about safety issues, findings on early fetal cardiovascular hemodynamics, and cardiac lesions that can progress during the course of pregnancy were also discussed.
Genome wide analysis of dexamethasone stimulated mineralization in human dental pulp cells by RNA sequencing
Authors: Tang Jia , Wang Zuolin
Published: December 2022

Human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) contain mesenchymal stem cells and are therefore indispensible for reparative dentin formation. Here, we present a pilot study of transcriptomic profiles of mineralized hDPCs isolated from sound human maxillary third molars. We observed altered gene expression of hDPCs between control (dexamethasone free) and experimental (dexamethasone 1 nm) groups. Differential expression analysis revealed up‐regulation of several inflammation and mineralization‐related genes in the experimental group. After a Gene Ontology analysis for predicting genes involved in biological process, cellular component and molecular function, we found enrichment of genes related to protein binding. Based on the results of Kyoto Encylopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis, it is suggested up‐regulated genes in mineralized hDPCs were mostly enriched in the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, fluid shear stress and the atherosclerosis signaling pathway, etc. Importantly, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis revealed dexamethasone was positively related to the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription, MAPK and Notch signaling pathway. Moreover, it was suggested that dexamethasone regulates signaling pathway in pluripotency of stem cells. Collectively, our work highlights transcriptome level gene regulation and intercellular interactions in mineralized hDPCs. The database produced in the present study paves the way for further investigations looking to explore genes that are involved in dental pulp cells mineralization.
Influence of Scandinavian teleconnection pattern on summer precipitation over the eastern side of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Chen Quanliang , Zhang Ziqi , Li Yang , Liao Yujing , Chen Huanhuan
Published: December 2022

This study analyses the relationship between the Scandinavian (SCA) teleconnection pattern and summer precipitation over the eastern side of the Tibetan Plateau (ESTP) between 1960 and 2020 and further studies the underlying physical mechanism. Statistical analysis showed that there is a significant and high negative correlation coefficient (around −0.59) between ESTP summer precipitation and the SCA teleconnection pattern over the period 1960–2020. When the SCA teleconnection pattern is in its negative phase, there is a significant increase in precipitation over most of the ESTP, and vice versa. Moisture budget analysis showed that vertical moisture advection makes a larger contribution to precipitation changes related to the SCA teleconnection pattern than evaporation and horizontal moisture advection. Specifically, positive precipitation anomalies related to the SCA teleconnection pattern are dominated by the enhanced dynamic component of vertical moisture advection, which is induced mainly by the significant ascending motion over almost the whole of the ESTP region. In summer, under the effect of the SCA teleconnection pattern, the abnormal westerly wind transports the mean warm air from TP to ESTP and forms an abnormal warm advection over the ESTP, resulting in a significant vertical upward motion and more summer precipitation over the ESTP. This study reveals the possible physical mechanism of the impacts of SCA teleconnection pattern on summer precipitation over the ESTP region and provides a scientific basis for ecological protection and disaster mitigation measures associated with major projects such as the Sichuan–Tibet railway and the Chengdu–Chongqing Economic Circle.
Temporal variability of precipitation over the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau and its surrounding areas in the last 40 years
Authors: Lu Hou‐Liang , Li Fang‐Fang , Gong Tong‐Liang , Gao Yan‐Hong , Li Jian‐Feng , Wang Guang‐Qian , Qiu Jun
Published: December 2022

The Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau (QTP) plays a crucial role in regulating the climate and hydrology over Asia, and studies indicate that the QTP tends to be warm and humid as a whole. Although precipitation variability on the QTP has a great impact on floods, soil erosion, and droughts, it is poorly understood owing to sparse meteorological observations. This study has investigated the temporal variability of precipitation on the QTP and its surrounding areas on different time scales over the past 40 years using the standardized variability index (SVI) based on entropy as well as its changing trends. The results show that the variability of precipitation has different spatial patterns on different time scales. In general, the variability of both the precipitation days and amounts are low in the southeast and northwest corners of the plateau and high in the southwest and north. It was found that the number of light precipitation days in the high vegetation coverage area in the southeastern plateau decreased significantly, but increased greatly in the bare land and sparse vegetation coverage areas in the northern part of the plateau. Such changes are believed to be conducive for ecological restoration. Most importantly, in the southern foothills of the Himalayas, many light precipitation days have turned into moderate and heavy precipitation days, and a significant increase in annual precipitation has also been noted, which are likely to cause natural disasters considering the local topographical conditions, such as landslides and mudslides.

Highlights

In QTP, SVIME in May is closer to summer mode, indicating monsoon beginning have advanced to May.

Extreme precipitation significantly influences precipitation variability.

Daily SVIAE decreases in grassland/barren/sparsely vegetated land, good for ecology.

Light rain days increased in bare land/sparse vegetation areas, benefiting vegetation restoration.

In southern Himalayas, light rain changed to moderate/heavy rain, leading to natural disasters.
Overview of oxidative stress and the role of micronutrients in critical illness
Authors: Dresen Ellen , Pimiento Jose M. , Patel Jayshil J. , Heyland Daren K. , Rice Todd W. , Stoppe Christian
Published: December 2022

Inflammation and oxidative stress represent physiological response mechanisms to different types of stimuli and injury during critical illness. Its proper regulation is fundamental to cellular and organismal survival and are paramount to outcomes and recovery from critical illness. A proper maintenance of the delicate balance between inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune response is crucial for resolution from critical illness with important implications for patient outcome. The extent of inflammation and oxidative stress under normal conditions is limited by the antioxidant defense system of the human body, whereas the antioxidant capacity is commonly significantly compromised, and serum levels of micronutrients and vitamins significantly depleted in patients who are critically ill. Hence, the provision of antioxidants and anti‐inflammatory nutrients may help to reduce the extent of oxidative stress and therefore improve clinical outcomes in patients who are critically ill. As existing evidence of the beneficial effects of antioxidant supplementation in patients who are critically ill is still unclear, actual findings about the most promising anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative candidates selenium, vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D will be discussed in this narrative review. The existing evidence provided so far demonstrates that several factors need to be considered to determine the efficacy of an antioxidant supplementation strategy in patients who are critically ill and indicates the need for adequately designed multicenter prospective randomized control trials to evaluate the clinical significance of different types and doses of micronutrients and vitamins in selected groups of patients with different types of critical illness.
Food security and food access during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Impacts, adaptations, and looking ahead
Authors: Otten Jennifer J. , Averill Michelle M. , Spiker Marie L.
Published: December 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic continues to alter US household food consumption and food spending. Although terminology used to describe food insecurity has varied during the COVID‐19 pandemic, many reliable estimates illustrate a dramatic increase in food insecurity from approximately 10% of US households before the pandemic to 25%–30% of households during the pandemic, with an even higher prevalence reported by more vulnerable and socially disadvantaged populations. To address the increase in food and economic insecurity, food and nutrition assistance policies and programs made innovative and temporary changes, and enrollment in these programs generally increased. However, some changes to food, nutrition, and income assistance programs are now expiring or contracting even as food insecurity prevalence is again on the rise and elevated food and nutrition assistance needs are expected to persist based on historical patterns. American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) practitioners can play an important role in identifying clients at elevated risk of food insecurity–related acute and chronic conditions and connecting high‐risk clients to resources. ASPEN practitioners can contribute to the evidence base linking food insecurity and nutrition outcomes. ASPEN practitioners can also advocate for addressing the root social and structural determinants of food insecurity and for the continuation of effective food and nutrition policy changes and innovations.
Lateglacial and Early Holocene palaeoenvironmental change and human activity at Killerby Quarry, North Yorkshire, UK
Authors: Hudson Samuel M , Waddington Clive , Pears Ben , Ellis Natalie , Parker Luke , Hamilton Derek , Alsos Inger Greve , Hughes Paul , Brown Antony
Published: December 2022

The hunter‐gatherers that entered the British peninsula after ice‐retreat were exploiting a dynamic, rapidly changing environment. Records of vegetation change and human occupation during the Lateglacial to Early Holocene in northern Britain are more commonly found at upland and cave sites. However, recent research highlights many areas of the Swale–Ure Washlands that preserve extensive environmental sequences in low‐lying ice‐wastage basins, channels and depressions. The Lateglacial–Early Holocene environment of Killerby Quarry, North Yorkshire, is investigated here using a multi‐proxy approach of sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA), pollen, sedimentological (geochemistry and portable optically stimulated luminescence), and rare and well‐preserved archaeology (Lavvu structures and lithics). Results show that the wetland basins and kettleholes were small lakes or ponds in the Lateglacial surrounded by sedge‐fen and birch woodland. A gradual (centennial scale) succession to reed‐swamp and then marsh is seen by the Early Holocene. This environment formed the resource‐scape for hunter‐gatherer transitory settlement in both the Lateglacial (Late Upper Palaeolithic) and Holocene (Early Mesolithic), attracted by the rich communities of pond‐related flora and fauna as well as easy strategic landscape access by way of the River Swale, an arterial route through the landscape connecting the North Sea Basin with the Pennine uplands via the palaeolakes around Killerby.
Construction of transglutaminase covalently cross‐linked hydrogel and high internal phase emulsion gel from pea protein modified by high‐intensity ultrasound
Authors: Wang Yihui , Liu Qing , Yang Yueyue , Zhang Ruixin , Jiao Aiquan , Jin Zhengyu
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

The poor gelling and emulsification properties of pea protein (PeaP) limit its application in gel‐based products. In this study, a strong hydrogel and a high internal phase emulsion (HPLE) gel of PeaP were constructed by covalent cross‐linking of transglutaminase (TGase) assisted by high‐intensity ultrasound.

RESULTS

Ultrasound promoted the catalytic efficiency of TGase, with the gel‐point temperature dropping from 44 °C to 28 °C after 10 min of ultrasound. As the ultrasound time increased from 1 min to 10 min, the microstructure of the hydrogel also changed from an irregular macropore structure to a relatively homogeneous honeycomb structure. This was accompanied by an improvement in gel strength, water holding capacity, and ultimate stress. Ultrasound enhanced the binding of water to PeaP, but had little effect on the water‐locking ability of the network structure. Ultrasonication improved the self‐supporting ability of the HPIE gels. The oil droplets within the HPIE gels were closely aligned to form a hexagonal structure. The PeaP layer was further cross‐linked by TGase, strengthening the network structure. High internal phase emulsion gel displayed a higher gel strength, viscosity, and good self‐healing ability under 1 min ultrasound. Meanwhile, HPIE gel at 1 min of ultrasound could be printed with the highest clarity.

CONCLUSION

This work provided some insights into improving the functional properties of PeaP, which is helpful for the design and development of PeaP‐based gel products. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
H‐Scan Ultrasound Monitoring of Breast Cancer Response to Chemotherapy and Validation With Diffusion‐Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Tai Haowei , Margolis Ryan , Li Junjie , Hoyt Kenneth
Published: December 2022

Objectives

H‐scan ultrasound (US) imaging is a novel tissue characterization technique to detect apoptosis‐induced changes in cancer cells after the initiation of effective drug treatment. The objective of the proposed research was to assess the sensitivity of 3‐dimensional (3D) H‐scan US technique for monitoring the response of breast cancer‐bearing animals to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and correlate results to diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW‐MRI) measurements of programmed cancer cell death.

Methods

Experimental studies used female mice (N = 18) implanted with human breast cancer cells. Animals underwent H‐scan US and DW‐MRI imaging on days 0, 1, 3, 7, and 10. After imaging at day 0, breast tumor‐bearing nude mice were treated biweekly with an apoptosis‐inducing drug. Texture analysis of H‐scan US images explored spatial relationships between local US scattering. At day 10, H‐scan measurements were compared with DW‐MRI‐derived apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values and histological findings.

Results

H‐scan US imaging of low and high dose cisplatin‐treated cancer‐bearing animals revealed changes in image intensity suggesting a progressive decrease in aggregate US scatterer size that was not observed in control animals. Longitudinal trends discovered in H‐scan US result matched with texture analysis and DW‐MRI (P < .01). Further, analysis of the H‐scan US image intensity and corresponding DW‐MRI‐derived ADC values revealed a strong linear correlation (R2 = .93, P < .001). These changes were due to cancer cell apoptotic activity and consider as early detectable biomarker during treatment.

Conclusions

The 3D H‐scan technique holds promise for assisting clinicians in monitoring the early response of breast cancer tumor to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and adding value to traditional diagnostic ultrasound examinations.
Low‐fluence treatment with a novel fractionated 2,910‐nm fiber laser improves photodamage
Authors: Bernstein Eric F. , Sanzo James F. , Wang Jennifer Y. , Cotsarelis Samuel M. , DiLeonardo Mario
Published: December 2022

Background

Facial rejuvenation by lasers that target water has been a mainstay of esthetic laser treatments for decades. Modern lasers more commonly treat a fraction of the skin surface using ablative, semi‐ablative, or nonablative pulses.

Methods

Twenty subjects with visible evidence of chronic photoaging on the face were enrolled in this study. All subjects received two full‐face, single‐pass treatments spaced 2 months apart with the superficial mode of a 2910 nm fiber laser with an estimated penetration depth of 10 μm, 25% coverage, delivered in a 15 mm × 15 mm square microbeam pattern. A blinded comparison of pretreatment and 3‐month post‐treatment images was performed. Evaluation of biopsy samples for laser‐tissue effects was performed on three separate subjects and biopsies were harvested 1‐day post‐treatment, 1‐week post‐treatment, and 2‐weeks post‐treatment.

Results

Blinded evaluation of digital images revealed an average improvement score of 25.1 ± 14.5 (mean ± SEM) or 25.1%, using an 11‐point scale evaluating overall improvement in photoaging (p < 0.001). Post‐treatment effects were limited to mild‐to‐moderate erythema and edema, and the pain was rated a 1.9 out of a maximum of 10. Histology demonstrated superficial changes in the stratum corneum and epidermis with dermal inflammation present at 1‐day post‐treatment and 1‐week post‐treatment, with a return to baseline at 2 weeks.

Conclusions

The 2910 nm fiber laser is safe and effective for improving mild photodamage, with minimal discomfort and downtime. Dermal inflammation results from very superficial epidermal injury and may contribute to clinical improvement.
The transcription factors Junb and Fosl2 cooperate to regulate Cdh3 expression in 15P‐1 Sertoli cells
Authors: Nguyen Ha T. , Martin Luc J.
Published: December 2022

In Sertoli cells of the testis, cadherins (Cdh) are important cell‐to‐cell interaction proteins and contribute to the formation of the blood‐testis barrier being essential for germ cells' protection. P‐cadherin or Cdh3 is only expressed in Sertoli cells from embryonic to prepubertal development. Interestingly, the expression profile of Cdh3 correlates with that of activating protein‐1 (AP‐1) transcription factors during Sertoli cells development. To assess their potential implications in the regulation of Cdh3, different AP‐1 transcription factors were overexpressed in 15P‐1 Sertoli cells. We found that the overexpressions of Junb and Fosl2 activated Cdh3 promoter. ChIP‐qPCR assay and luciferase reporter assay with 5′ promoter deletions and site‐directed mutagenesis confirmed the recruitment of Junb and Fosl2 to an AP‐1 regulatory element at ‐47 bp in the proximal region of Cdh3 promoter in 15P‐1 cells. These findings were further supported by histone modification markers and chromatin accessibility surrounding Cdh3 promoter in mouse testis. Moreover, the knockdowns of Junb and/or Fosl2 by siRNA decreased Cdh3 protein levels. Taken together, these data suggest that in 15P‐1 Sertoli cells, the AP‐1 family members Junb and Fosl2 are responsible for the regulation of Cdh3 expression, which requires the recruitment of both factors to the proximal region of the Cdh3 promoter.
Making the UN Ocean Decade work? The potential for, and challenges of, transdisciplinary research and real‐world laboratories for building towards ocean solutions
Authors: Franke Andrea , Peters Kimberley , Hinkel Jochen , Hornidge Anna‐Katharina , Schlüter Achim , Zielinski Oliver , Wiltshire Karen H. , Jacob Ute , Krause Gesche , Hillebrand Helmut
Published: December 2022

Due to the strong interconnectedness between the ocean and our societies worldwide, improved ocean governance is essential for sustainable development in the context of the UN Ocean Decade. However, a multitude of different perspectives—ecological, societal, political, economic—and relations between these have to be understood and taken into consideration to foster transformative pathways towards marine sustainability.

A core challenge that we are facing is that the ‘right’ response to complex societal issues cannot be known beforehand as abilities to predict complex systems are limited. Consequently, societal transformation is necessarily a journey towards the unknown and therefore requires experimental approaches that must enable the involvement of everyone with stakes in the future of our marine environment and its resources.

A promising transdisciplinary research method that fulfils both criteria—being participatory and experimental—are real‐world laboratories. Here, we discuss how real‐world labs can serve as an operational framework in the context of the Ocean Decade by facilitating and guiding successful knowledge exchange at the interface of science and society. The core element of real‐world labs is transdisciplinary experimentation to jointly develop potential strategies leading to targeted real‐world interventions, essential for achieving the proposed ‘Decade Outcomes’.

The authors specifically illustrate how deploying the concept of real‐world labs can be advantageous when having to deal with multiple, overlapping challenges in the context of ocean governance and the blue economy.

Altogether, we offer a first major contribution to synthesizing knowledge on the potentials of marine real‐world labs, considering how they act as a way of exploring options for sustainable ocean futures. Indeed, in the marine context, real‐world labs are still under‐explored but are a tangible way for addressing the societal challenges of working towards sustainability transformations over the coming UN Ocean Decade and beyond.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Common tests for diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Bishop Katherine , Poole Ruth
Published: December 2022

In this fifth article in our ‘Test Tips’ series, Dr Katherine Bishop and Dr Ruth Poole examine the relative benefits and limitations of the four commonly‐used tests for diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Haemodiafiltration as a treatment option in refractory life‐threatening diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Agha Adnan
Published: December 2022

Background: Fulminant diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) with a pH of <6.9 can be refractory to DKA management protocols and there is no consensus/evidence to suggest intravenous bicarbonate use. Here we attempt to describe a case of fulminant DKA without renal failure where haemofiltration was done for severe metabolic acidosis with excellent results.

Case history: A 23‐year‐old female presented to the emergency department via ambulance after out‐of‐hospital arrest and returned to spontaneous circulation after resuscitation. She was found to be in severe DKA with pH of 6.752, HCO3 of 1.3mmol/L, lactate 3.1mmol/L and creatinine 133μmol/L; and despite maximal DKA treatment with maximum insulin infusion titration, at 15 units per hour and 5 litres of IV fluid, remained in severe metabolic acidosis with pH 6.772. After discussion with critical care and endocrine colleagues regarding options of using intravenous bicarbonate therapy versus haemofiltration, she was put on haemofiltration which resolved the metabolic acidosis completely within 12 hours.

Discussion: Our patient with severe refractory DKA responded to haemofiltration with resolution of severe metabolic acidosis; we feel that haemofiltration in these situations may be considered as an option to correct persistent metabolic acidosis in refractory fulminant DKA. Copyright © 2022 John Wiley & Sons.
Effect of degree of neutralization of sodium‐based ionomers on hot‐tack properties
Authors: Sehata Tatsuya , Yoshiura Takuto , Koda Tomonori , Yano Hiroko , Isokawa Motoaki , Nishioka Akihiro
Published: December 2022

The hot‐tack properties of ethylene‐methacrylic acid copolymers neutralized with sodium (Na) cations to produce ionomers were investigated. Specimens with neutralization degrees of 20%, 54%, and 70% were examined. After testing at low sealing temperatures (<130°C), the highest hot‐tack strength was obtained from a specimen with a neutralization degree of 20%. In contrast, at high sealing temperatures (>140°C), the hot‐tack strength increased with an increasing degree of neutralization. Observations of the surfaces of samples tested at low sealing temperatures after hot‐tack tests showed that specimens having a neutralization degree of 20% exhibited cohesive breakdown while the 54% and 70% specimens underwent interfacial delamination. The effect of sealing temperature on hot‐tack strength was determined by assessing the rheological properties of molten ionomers. The results suggested that, when testing at low sealing temperatures, a low melt viscosity provided high hot‐tack strength by allowing flow diffusivity of the resin at the sealed interface. At high sealing temperatures, uniaxial elongational viscosity related to strain hardening contributed to the high hot‐tack strength of these Na‐based ionomers. The present study highlights the important effect of ionic aggregates on hot‐tack properties.
Does caudal analgesia improve pain control for pediatric burn surgery: A retrospective study
Authors: Yao Phil Y. , Shaw Susanna J. , Gabriel Rodney A. , Soria Claire S.
Published: December 2022

Pediatric burns affect approximately 15–20 patients per 100 000 hospital admissions, but unfortunately there is a lack of evidence to guide optimal strategies for acute pain control. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether caudal analgesia with single injection of local anesthetics reduced pain medication consumption in pediatric patients who required surgical intervention for burn injuries. Retrospective data from patients <7 years old who had burn surgery in the operating rooms at a single regional burn center from 2013 to 2021 was obtained and analyzed. A 1:1 propensity‐score matching method using nearest neighbor matching without replacement was utilized to create matched cohorts. Primary outcome was opioid consumption, which is presented as opioid equivalents divided by patient weight in kilograms, at 24 h after surgery. Comparing propensity‐score matched groups, there were no statistically significant differences in adjusted morphine equivalents received by the caudal group (0.122 [0.0646;0.186]) and the no caudal group (0.0783 [0.0384;0.153]) at 24 h after surgery (p = 0.06). This is the first study to the best of our knowledge of the association of caudal analgesia in pediatric burn patients with postoperative pain control. The data showed an increase in pain medication consumption postoperative at 24 h and intraoperative for patients who received single injection caudal blocks, but when adjusted using propensity‐score matching, the difference was no longer statistically significant.
The Use of Capping Agents in the Stabilization and Functionalization of Metallic Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Pedroso‐Santana Seidy , Fleitas‐Salazar Noralvis
Published: December 2022

The study of nanoparticles (NPs) and their application in different areas of research, including biomedicine, is attracting the attention of researchers worldwide. Numerous investigations published during the last 20 years cover the fabrication of new materials in the nanoscale, and several uses have been proposed. Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) have generated a high level of interest, based on improved optical, electrical and magnetic properties, ease of manufacturing, small sizes, and easy functionalization. However, when it comes to Biomedicine, particle aggregation, possible toxicity, and the need for effective cell internalization, still demand active investigation. The main strategy to overcome these drawbacks is possibly the use of capping agents to increase the stability of the particles in dispersion, their biocompatibility and functionalization. In this review, important concepts and characteristics of MNPs, are collected and described. The importance of surface coating for biomedical applications of metallic nanoparticles as well as the most used capping agents and metallic nanomaterials, are also discussed. Finally, the text includes examples and essential characteristics for the biomedical use of MNPs, including the consideration of important challenges. Aspects such as relevant biological activity, increased biocompatibility and functionalization potential are among the most desirable attributes of a capping agent.
Exploring the ZrXO (X = S and Se) Janus Monolayers for Optoelectronic and Spintronic Applications
Authors: Nguyen Duy Khanh , Guerrero-Sanchez J. , Hoat Do Minh
Published: December 2022

Recently, 2D Janus structures containing oxygen have attracted great attention from researchers. Herein, the ZrXO (X = S and Se) Janus monolayers are investigated using first‐principles calculations based on the projector augmented wave (PAW). ZrSO and ZrSeO single layers are dynamically and thermally stable, and exhibit the indirect gap semiconductor character with a bandgap of 1.91(2.88) and 1.09 (1.88) eV, respectively, as determined by the standard PBE (hybrid HSE06) functional. The charge transfer process from Zr atom to IVA‐atoms is confirmed by means of the charge density difference and Bader population analysis. Studied 2D materials exhibit good absorption in a wide energy range from visible to ultraviolet regimes with larger absorption coefficient reaching to the order of 105 cm−1. To magnetize the ZrXO monolayers for possible spintronic applications, fluorine (F) and chlorine (Cl) doping is proposed. Significant magnetic properties with total magnetic moments ≈1 μB are obtained. Besides, high spin polarization around the Fermi level is also induced as a result of the feature‐rich half‐metallic or magnetic semiconductor natures. Results presented herein introduce ZrSO and ZrSeO monolayers as prospective 2D materials to be applied high‐performance nano optoelectronic and spintronic devices.
Socioeconomically disadvantaged veterans experience treatment delays for pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Gillmeyer Kari R. , Rinne Seppo T. , Qian Shirley X. , Maron Bradley A. , Johnson Shelsey W. , Klings Elizabeth S. , Wiener Renda S.
Published: December 2022

Prompt initiation of therapy after pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) diagnosis is critical to improve outcomes; yet delays in PAH treatment are common. Prior research demonstrates that individuals with PAH belonging to socially disadvantaged groups experience worse clinical outcomes. Whether these poor outcomes are mediated by delays in care or other factors is incompletely understood. We sought to examine the association between race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status and time‐to‐PAH treatment. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of Veterans diagnosed with incident PAH between 2006 and 2019 and treated with PAH therapy. Our outcome was time‐to‐PAH treatment. Our primary exposures were race/ethnicity, annual household income, health insurance status, education, and housing insecurity. We calculated time‐to‐treatment using multivariable mixed‐effects Cox proportional hazard models. Of 1827 Veterans with PAH, 27% were Black, 4% were Hispanic, 22.1% had an income < $20,000, 53.3% lacked non‐VA insurance, 25.5% had <high school education, and 3.9% had housing insecurity. Median time‐to‐treatment was 114 days (interquartile range [IQR] 21–336). Our multivariable models demonstrated increased time‐to‐treatment among patients with lower household income (hazard ratio [HR] 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60–0.91 for < $20,000 vs. ≥ $100,000) and those without non‐VA insurance (HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.82–1.00). Race/ethnicity, education, and housing insecurity were not associated with time‐to‐treatment. Veterans with PAH experienced substantial and potentially harmful treatment delays, with median time‐to‐treatment of 16 weeks after diagnosis. Those with lower income and those without non‐VA health insurance experienced even greater treatment delays. Additional research is urgently needed to develop interventions to improve timely PAH treatment and mitigate economic disparities in treatment.
A novel application of a geotechnical soil stabilization technology for improved delivery of remedial amendments
Authors: Richardson Stephen D. , Kolz Joshua , Hart Dylan M. , Long Justin A. , Johnson Nicholas W. , Denn Alison R. , Newell Charles J.
Published: December 2022

Accelerating the remediation of contaminants that have diffused into low‐permeability (low‐k) geologic units such as silts and clays is a key need for the groundwater remediation industry. Injection‐based remedial technologies are often ineffective because the injected amendments are more likely to influence transmissive media (sands and sandy silts) and generally do not penetrate low‐k units. While some emerging technologies are now being tested, they are often expensive or have other technical limitations (e.g., installation depth and rate of amendment emplacement). To address the problem of treating contaminants in low‐k media, a geotechnical technology called the “Grout Bomber” (Keller North America) was repurposed for an environmental application to emplace ~800 vertical “reaction columns” containing zero valent iron (ZVI), sand, and neat vegetable oil for the treatment of chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) in lean clays and sandy clays. The reaction columns were closely‐spaced (2–3 ft apart) to greatly accelerate the back diffusion of CVOCs from the low‐k media to the reaction columns where contact with ZVI and vegetable oil promotes abiotic and biotic reductive dechlorination of CVOCs, respectively. Overall, 35 tons of ZVI were emplaced into the 5200 cubic yard (yd3) (~4000 m3) source zone during the project. Key benefits of this technology include rapid installation (average of 107 reaction columns per day), ease of remediation amendment mixing, consistent amendment dosing, and relatively low unit installation costs ($71 per cubic yard of treatment zone). It should be emphasized that this application of the Grout Bomber relies on diffusion of contaminants into the reaction columns from the surrounding low‐k media—a process that occurs slowly over years to decades. A planning‐level model showed that installation of closely spaced vertical reaction columns in a TCE‐laden clay unit reduced the time to achieve maximum contaminant levels from greater than 500 years to approximately 26 years. Groundwater monitoring confirmed the establishment of a concentration gradient between the reaction columns which promotes diffusion of CVOCs toward the reaction columns. The presence of dissolved acetylene and gaseous “higher coupling” products (>C3) provide further evidence of ongoing abiotic reductive dechlorination within the reaction columns.
A Metal Nanoparticle Thermistor with the Beta Value of 10 000 K
Authors: Zhao Xing , Guo Jiahui , Wang Jingyu , Yan Yong
Published: December 2022

The thermistor, typically made from metallic oxides, is a type of resistor whose electrical resistance is dependent on its temperature. Despite the wide usage, the limitations of ceramic thermistors become increasingly apparent as devices with improved performances are sought and as new applications emerge. Herein, a thermistor that is showed with a beta (B) value of 10 000 K can be made exclusively from metal nanoparticles functionalized with charged organic ligands. This B value is hard to achieve for ceramic devices, which is due to the increase of effective counterion concentration and its mobility upon thermal activation. Importantly, the performance of the nanoparticle thermistor is maintained when it is fabricated on a flexible substrate and experiences reversible bending. Demos of thermistor arrays for heat transfer, distribution, and comparison of their performance with commercial products are also demonstrated. Owing to the low temperature and simple casting process, conformably flexible characteristics, stable solid states, and ultra‐high sensitivities, this device is expected to be practically used soon.
Chiral Transport in Nanochannel Based Artificial Drug Transporters
Authors: Yang Lei , Sun Zhongyue , Zhang Siyun , Sun Yue , Li Haibing
Published: December 2022

The precise regulation of chiral drug transmembrane transport can be achieved through drug transporters in living organisms. However, implementing this process in vitro is still a formidable challenge due to the complexity of the biological systems that control drug enantiomeric transport. Herein, a facile and feasible strategy is employed to construct chiral L‐tyrosine‐modified nanochannels (L‐Tyr nanochannels) based on polyethylene terephthalate film, which could enhance the chiral recognition of propranolol isomers (R‐/S‐PPL) for transmembrane transport. Moreover, conventional fluorescence spectroscopy, patch‐clamp technology, laser scanning confocal microscopy, and picoammeter technology are employed to evaluate the performance of nanochannels. The results show that the L‐Tyr nanochannel have better chiral selectivity for R‐/S‐PPL compared with the L‐tryptophan (L‐Trp) channel, and the chiral selectivity coefficient is improved by about 4.21‐fold. Finally, a detailed theoretical analysis of the chirality selectivity mechanism is carried out. The findings would not only enrich the basic theory research related to chiral drug transmembrane transport, but also provide a new idea for constructing artificial channels to separate chiral drugs.
Typification of two Linnaean names in Helicteres (Malvaceae: Helicteroideae)
Authors: Dorr Laurence J.
Published: December 2022

Types are designated for the names of two species of Helicteres (Malvaceae: Helicteroideae) described by Linnaeus. A lectotype is designated for H. angustifolia and a neotype for H. pentandra.
The bottom-up EFT: complete UV resonances of the SMEFT operators
Authors: Li Hao-Lin , Ni Yu-Han , Xiao Ming-Lei , Yu Jiang-Hao
Published: December 2022

Abstract

The standard model effective field theory (SMEFT) provides systematic parameterization of all possible new physics above the electroweak scale. According to the amplitude-operator correspondence, an effective operator can be decomposed into a linear combination of several j-basis operators, which correspond to local amplitudes carrying certain spin and gauge quantum numbers in a particular scattering channel. Based on the Poincare and gauge symmetries of scattering amplitude, we construct the j-basis using the Casimir method for both the Lorentz and gauge sectors. The quantum numbers of the j-basis operators fix the quantum numbers of any intermediate state in the corresponding amplitudes, such as a UV resonance. This can be re-interpreted as the j-basis/UV correspondence, thus obtaining the j-bases in all partitions of fields for an operator amounts to findingallof its UV origins at tree level, constituting the central part of the bottom-up EFT framework. Applying the j-basis analysis to SMEFT, we obtain a complete list of possible tree-level UV origins of the effective operators at the dimension 5, 6, 7, and all the bosonic operators at dimension 8.
Reflected entropy in AdS3/WCFT
Authors: Chen Bin , Liu Yuefeng , Yu Boyang
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Reflected entropy is a newly proposed notion in quantum information. It has important implications in holography. In this work, we study the reflected entropy in the framework of the AdS3/WCFT correspondence. We determine the scaling dimensions and charges of various twist operators in non-Abelian orbifold WCFT by generalizing the uniformization map and taking into account of the charge conservation. This allows us to compute the reflected entropy, logarithmic negativity and odd entropy for two disjoint intervals in holographic WCFT. We find that the reflected entropy can be related holographically to the pre-entanglement wedge cross-section, which is given by the minimal distance between the benches in two swing surfaces.
Clinical application of the contrast-enhancement boost technique in computed tomography angiography of the portal vein
Authors: Hou Juan , Zhang Yuan , Yan Jing , Zhang Tieliang , Xia Wenwen , Zhu Yucai , Liu Wenya
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to explore the improved image quality of the portal vein using the contrast-enhancement boost (CE-boost) technique for the improved visibility of abdominal-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans in clinical practice.

Methods

This retrospective study included 50 patients in Group A who underwent routine abdominal-enhanced CT and 50 patients in Group B who underwent abdominal computed tomography angiography (CTA) with matched body mass index, age, and sex. Images in Group A were postprocessed with the CE-boost technique for further enhanced visibility of the portal vein. Both subjective and objective assessments of different branches of the portal vein in three types of images (i.e., Group A with CE-boost and without CE-boost, Group B) were statistically analyzed.

Results

The subjective scores of two experienced radiologists showed good consistency (kappa value > 0.624, p < 0.001), and the score of Group A with CE-boost (mean, 4.64) was significantly higher than that of the others (p < 0.001). The liver parenchyma and most target veins in Group A with CE-boost showed the highest CT, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) values and the lowest standard deviation (SD), while the CNR of most portal veins in Group A without CE-boost had the lowest CNR (p < 0.001). There were no differences in the SNR of the portal vein in Group A without CE-Boost and Group B (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

CE-boost can significantly improve image quality in portal vein imaging without any additional scanning settings or changes in the clinical workflow.

Graphical Abstract
The importance of vitamin B12 for individuals choosing plant-based diets
Authors: Niklewicz Ali , Smith A. David , Smith Alison , Holzer Andre , Klein Andrew , McCaddon Andrew , Molloy Anne M. , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H. R. , Nexo Ebba , McNulty Helene , Refsum Helga , Gueant Jean-Louis , Dib Marie-Joe , Ward Mary , Murphy Michelle , Green Ralph , Ahmadi Kourosh R. , Hannibal Luciana , Warren Martin J. , Owen P. Julian ,   on behalf of CluB-12
Published: December 2022

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that is not made by plants; consequently, unfortified plant-based foods are not a reliable supply. Recent estimates suggest high rates of vitamin B12 deficiency among the vegetarian and vegan populations, particularly in pregnant women or women of child-bearing age who, for ethical and health reasons, are shifting towards higher consumption of plant-based foods in ever-increasing numbers. Vitamin B12 plays crucial metabolic roles across the life-course and in particular during pregnancy and in early development (first 1000 days of life). Evidence now implicates vitamin B12 deficiency with increased risk to a range of neuro, vascular, immune, and inflammatory disorders. However, the current UK recommended nutrient intake for vitamin B12 does not adequately consider the vitamin B12 deficit for those choosing a plant-based diet, including vegetarianism and in particular veganism, representing a hidden hunger. We provide a cautionary note on the importance of preventing vitamin B12 deficits for those individuals choosing a plant-based diet and the health professionals advising them.
Quantifying the effect of feedback frequency in interactive reinforcement learning for robotic tasks
Authors: Harnack Daniel , Pivin-Bachler Julie , Navarro-Guerrero Nicolás
Published: December 2022

Reinforcement learning (RL) has become widely adopted in robot control. Despite many successes, one major persisting problem can be very low data efficiency. One solution is interactive feedback, which has been shown to speed up RL considerably. As a result, there is an abundance of different strategies, which are, however, primarily tested on discrete grid-world and small scale optimal control scenarios. In the literature, there is no consensus about which feedback frequency is optimal or at which time the feedback is most beneficial. To resolve these discrepancies we isolate and quantify the effect of feedback frequency in robotic tasks with continuous state and action spaces. The experiments encompass inverse kinematics learning for robotic manipulator arms of different complexity. We show that seemingly contradictory reported phenomena occur at different complexity levels. Furthermore, our results suggest that no single ideal feedback frequency exists. Rather that feedback frequency should be changed as the agent’s proficiency in the task increases.