bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainability and Education: Restoring Dignity of Communities in the Classrooms and Beyond
Authors: Kumaran Akhila
Published: December 2022

The sustainable development goal#4 speaks of “ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”. In the course of the pandemic, a 2021 survey report (covering 1400 children in classes 2 -8 across 15 states) stated that that only 8 per cent of the children in rural areas and 24 per cent of children in urban areas seemed to studying online regularly in the country, so it is all the more pertinent that we examine what do we mean by equitable education in a pandemic ravaged world? This paper primarily examines the sustainable aspects of the National Education Policy 2020. In doing so, the paper argues that the provision of vocational education (the concept of “bagless days” in schools) can be located within the broader ambit of SDG4 in particular SDG 4.3 that speaks of vocational education. In formulating this, one can attempt to reconcile community centric learning practices and indigenous knowledge with modern day curriculum. In this regard, particular attention is paid to the fishing communities in the state of Kerala. By taking a case study approach, the paper argues that it is only by educating keeping the indigenous knowledge of the communities at the center of the broader educational system – particularly of those communities who have a peaceful co-existence with nature - that we can envisage a right to education that is premised on right to life with dignity. A mixed methods approach is used in the paper combining qualitative methods such as ethnography in the coastal village of Munambam in Kerala and quantitative metrics such as the basic statistical indicators that the UN has set out as metrics to measure progress with respect to SDG 4. Finally, the framework of “doubly engaged ethnography” by Pacheco-Vega and Parizeau [1] is examined, which this paper argues is relevant for social work practitioners and educators who work with vulnerable populations so that we move beyond deficit narratives.
A Review of Artificial Neural Networks for Chemical Process Optimization and Compound Property Prediction
Authors: Wang Lei , Kang Jiacong
Published: December 2022

Artificial neural networks are widely used in chemical processes because of their powerful data processing capabilities, fault tolerance, nonlinear relationship processing capabilities, and learning capabilities. This paper will introduce the development history and important models of artificial neural network, and focus on its application in chemical process optimization and prediction of physical properties of compounds.
The Effect of Combined Vitamin Treatment on Paraquat-inflicted Liver Damage
Authors: Okolonkwo Benjamin Nnamdi
Published: December 2022

Paraquat poisoning causes serious herbicide intoxication commonly and usually as a result of deliberate or accidental ingestion. Vitamins C and E are very good antioxidants that reacts rapidly with radicals and alters lipid peroxidation. This study was done to evaluate the effect of Vitamin E and C combination therapy on the chronic toxicity of paraquat on liver markers in Wistar rats. A total of 200 male rats were used for the study. The rats were divided into four groups of 50 rats in each group (A, B, C, D) and was further subgrouped into two (0 and VEC), having 25rats per subgroup. All “0” subgroups (A0, B0, C0 and D0) except A0 were treated with paraquat in 0.02g, 0.04g and 0.06g respectively every two weeks for three months. All “VEC” subgroups (AVEC, BVEC, CVEC and DVEC) except AVEC were treated with paraquat similarly, after which they were treated with vitamin E (500mg) and C (2000mg/L) weekly for one month. AVEC was only treated with vitamin E and C. Blood samples were collected and analysed for liver function test (total and direct bilirubin, total protein, albumin and globulin). There was a significant difference in the level of all the parameters among the “Ao”, “Bo”, “Co” and “Do”, p-value<0.05 and also among the “AVEC”, “BVEC”, “CVEC” and “DVEC”, p-value<0.05. The result also showed that there were significant differences in intra-group comparison in all the liver biochemical parameters, p-value<0.05. There was no significant difference in the concentration of globulin among the subgroup. This study has confirmed that vitamin E and C combination has a therapeutic effect in male Wistar rats on two month of weekly treatment. Therefore, a weekly treatment with Vit E and C can ameliorate liver toxicity in rats.
Modified Ratio Estimators for Population Means with Two Auxiliary Parameters Using Calibration Weights
Authors: Ayodeji Adubi S. , Babatunde Oluwagbenga T. , Ifeoma Ude O.
Published: December 2022

Many researchers have used different auxiliary parameters such as coefficient of variation, coefficient of kurtosis, coefficient of skewness, quartiles, deciles etc., to improve the precision of estimators under various sampling schemes. This paper suggested a class of ratio estimators with two known auxiliary variable parameters for the estimation of population means under a simple random sample without replacement (SRSWOR) using the calibration weighting method. The calibrated weight was obtained using a new calibration constraint, which includes the known standard deviation of the auxiliary variable. The biases and mean square errors of the proposed estimators were derived and compared with the biases and mean square errors of the existing modified ratio estimators in Upadhyaya & Singh [1], Singh [2], Lu & Yan [3], and Yan & Tian [4]. Furthermore, we derived the condition for which the proposed estimators perform better than the existing estimators. The results from using real data sets showed that the suggested estimators perform better than the existing ratio estimators.
Study on Use of Bluetooth Technology in Hearing Aids among Adults
Authors: Najeeb S. M. Tarique , Singh Akanksha , Chandel Swati , Parveen Mussarrat , Gupta Neena
Published: December 2022

Background: Hearing is one of the key features of communication. Hearing aids are prescribed when a person suffers from hearing loss. There have been many updates in the technology of hearing aids like speech enhancements, Noise reduction, microphone focus but still some people find difficulty in listening to phone calls and media streaming. Integration of Bluetooth technology with hearing aids is giving a satisfactory response and helping hearing aid users to overcome existing challenges with mobile phones. Objective: To measure the satisfaction level of hearing aid users with the use of Bluetooth technology. Method: Quantitative, Cross-sectional study was conducted 20 Audiology clinics across Delhi and National Capital Region for a period of 1 year. A total of 55 samples were taken in the study from the clinics for a duration of 1 year. Pre-tested questionnaire was used for collecting the data and face to face interviews were conducted.

Results: Bluetooth streaming when used with the hearing aids, participants reported a significant improvement on multiple parameters improved listening on phone calls in both quiet and noisy environments, lesser repetitions, improved, music listening, confident in using hearing aids in public places, better listening over video calling and extended wearing time.

Conclusion: Hearing aids with Bluetooth technology is becoming an essential aspect of hearing aid. His has been building confidence of using hearing aids and increasing wearing time. Bluetooth hearing aids are also providing a solution to the limitation of using personal listening devices.
Association of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors With Dementia, Depression, and Suicide
Authors: Garcia-Argibay Miguel , Hiyoshi Ayako , Fall Katja , Montgomery Scott
Published: December 2022

Importance

In recent decades, there has been increased interest in the possible adverse neurological effects of 5α-reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs), which have been used mainly for benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenic alopecia. Numerous studies and reports have indicated associations of 5-ARIs with depression and suicide. However, most of these studies had methodological shortcomings, and very little is known about the potential association of 5-ARIs with dementia.

Objective

To investigate the association of 5-ARI use with all-cause dementia, Alzheimer disease, vascular dementia, depression, and suicide.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This Swedish register-based cohort study included 2 236 876 men aged 50 to 90 years between July 1, 2005, and December 31, 2018. Statistical analyses were performed from September 15, 2021, to May 25, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A diagnosis of all-cause dementia, Alzheimer disease, vascular dementia, depression, or completed suicide.

Exposures

A recorded prescription in the Swedish national prescription register of finasteride or dutasteride and duration of use.

Results

Of 2 236 876 men (median age at the start of follow-up, 55 years [IQR, 50-65 years] and at treatment initiation, 73 years [IQR, 66-80 years]), 70 645 (3.2%) started finasteride treatment, and 8774 (0.4%) started dutasteride treatment. Men taking finasteride or dutasteride were at increased risk of all-cause dementia (finasteride: hazard ratio [HR], 1.22 [95% CI, 1.17-1.28]; dutasteride: HR, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.01-1.20]), Alzheimer disease (finasteride: HR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.10-1.31]; dutasteride: HR, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.09-1.50]), vascular dementia (finasteride: HR, 1.44 [95% CI, 1.30-1.58]; dutasteride: HR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.08-1.59]), and depression (finasteride: HR, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.48-1.75]; dutasteride: HR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.43-1.96]). However, the magnitude of the association decreased over time, and the findings became statistically nonsignificant with continuous exposures over 4 years, except for depression, which showed a constant risk over time, with no differences between finasteride and dutasteride. In contrast, 5-ARIs were not associated with suicide (finasteride: HR, 1.22 [95% CI, 0.99-1.49]; dutasteride: HR, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.62-1.54]).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that, while men receiving 5-ARI treatment showed a higher risk for dementia in the initial periods after starting treatment, the decreasing magnitude of the association over time suggested that the risk may be, entirely or in part, due to increased dementia detection among patients with benign prostate enlargement. Both finasteride and dutasteride were similarly associated with depression with a constant risk over time, while neither drug was associated with suicide. Prescribing clinicians and potential users should be aware of the possible risks for depression associated with 5-ARI use.
Effect of Oral β-Glucan on Antibody Response to Ganglioside Vaccine in Patients With High-Risk Neuroblastoma
Authors: Cheung Irene Y. , Mauguen Audrey , Modak Shakeel , Ragupathi Govind , Basu Ellen M. , Roberts Stephen S. , Kushner Brian H. , Cheung Nai-Kong
Published: December 2022

Importance

Among patients with high-risk relapsed metastatic neuroblastoma, oral β-glucan adjuvant during GD2/GD3 ganglioside vaccine boost has stimulated IgG antibody response, which was associated with improved survival; however, the effectiveness of oral β-glucan during the vaccine priming phase remains unproven.

Objective

To isolate the adjuvant effect of oral β-glucan on antibody response to GD2/GD3 ganglioside vaccine in patients with high-risk neuroblastoma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this phase 2 randomized clinical trial, enrolled patients with high-risk neuroblastoma were randomized to 2 groups to receive the GD2/GD3 vaccine at a large cancer center in a major metropolitan area from October 2018 to September 2020. Data were analyzed from October 7, 2021, to February 28, 2022.

Interventions

Eligible patients receiving GD2/GD3 vaccine were randomly assigned to group 1 (n = 54) to receive no β-glucan or group 2 (n = 53) to receive an oral β-glucan regimen during the first 5 weeks of vaccine priming. From week 6 onwards, all 107 patients received oral β-glucan during vaccine boost for 1 year or until disease progression.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary end point was comparison of anti-GD2 IgG1 response before vaccine injection 6 (week 32) in group 1 vs group 2. Seroconversion rate and the association of antibody titer with β-glucan receptor dectin-1 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs3901533 were also assessed.

Results

In all, 107 patients with high-risk neuroblastoma were randomized to the 2 groups: 54 patients (median [range] age, 5.2 [1.0-17.3] years; 28 [52%] male and 26 [48%] female) in group 1; and 53 patients (median [range] age, 6.2 [1.9-18.4] years; 25 [47%] male and 28 [53%] female) in group 2; both groups were also comparable in their first remission status at study entry (70% vs 70%). Adding oral β-glucan during the first 5 weeks of vaccine priming elicited a higher anti-GD2 IgG1 antibody response in group 2 (1.80; 90% CI, 0.12-3.39; P = .08; planned type I error, 0.10). Anti-GD2 IgG1 titer of 230 ng/mL or greater by week 8 was associated with statistically favorable PFS. Antibody titer correlated significantly with dectin-1 SNP. The genotype frequency, seroconversion rates, and vaccine-related toxic effects were similar in the 2 groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

This phase 2 randomized clinical trial found that adding oral β-glucan during vaccine priming increased anti-GD2 IgG1 titer among genetic responders without added toxic effects. Because responder dectin-1 SNP was identical in the 2 randomized groups, no difference was detected in seroconversion rates. Alternative or additional adjuvants may be needed to enhance seroconversion.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00911560
Large Bilateral Compressible Neck Mass in 55-Year-Old Man
Authors: Tekumalla Sruti , Thomas Tom
Published: December 2022

A 55-year-old man with a medical history significant for hypertension, coronary artery disease, and obstructive sleep apnea presents with an enlarging neck mass of more than 2 years’ duration. What is your diagnosis?
Bioengineering of High Cell Density Tissues with Hierarchical Vascular Networks for Ex Vivo Whole Organs
Authors: Wu Peizheng , Asada Hiroki , Hakamada Masataka , Mabuchi Mamoru
Published: December 2022

The development of tissue‐like structures such as cell sheets, spheroids, and organoids has contributed to progress in regenerative medicine. Simultaneous achievement of scale up and high cell density of these tissues is challenging because sufficient oxygen cannot be supplied to the inside of large, high cell density tissues. Here, in vitro fabrication of vessels to supply oxygen to the inside of millimeter‐sized scaffold‐free tissues whose cell density is ≈200 million cells mL−1, corresponding to those of native tissues, is shown. Hierarchical vascular networks by anastomosis of capillaries and a large vessel are essential for oxygen supply, whereas a large vessel or capillary networks alone make negligible contributions to the supply. The hierarchical vascular networks are formed by a top‐down approach, which offers a new option for ex vivo whole organs without decellularization and 3D‐bioprinting.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Control over Multiple Stereogenicities: Atroposelective Synthesis of Axially Chiral Phthalimides
Authors: Barday Manuel , Rodrigues Jessica , Bouillac Pierre , Rodriguez Jean , Amatore Muriel , Constantieux Thierry
Published: December 2022

The design of a NHC‐catalyzed methodology for the straightforward access to hitherto unknown axially chiral N‐aryl phthalimides has provided a breakthrough in the field of multichirality control. Anticipating a formal (4+2) oxidative annulation, the use of NHC‐derived chiral dienolate as ambident partner toward N‐aryl maleimides unexpectedly yields original bis‐succinimide‐type compounds featuring a multichiral architecture with up to four stereogenic centers and two remote chiral axes. The overall pseudo‐three components reaction between an enal and two equivalents of a N‐aryl maleimide proceeds with excellent enantioselectivity and complete diastereoselectivity. This study illustrates the high synthetic potential of chiral NHC‐activated dienolates for the rapid and highly diastereo‐ and enantioselective preparation of underexplored atropisomers in the pentatomic series, featuring multiple stereogenic elements including challenging Csp2−N chiral axes. The practicality of this reaction is highlighted by a broad substrate scope and a scaled‐up synthesis. Moreover, the easy base‐induced transformation of the chiral bis‐succinimide precursors allows to prepare the initially planned N‐aryl phthalimide atropisomers with excellent retention of enantiopurity.

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In Vitro Cytostatic Effect on Tumor Cells by Carborane‐Based Dual Cyclooxygenase‐2 and 5‐Lipoxygenase Inhibitors
Authors: Braun Sebastian , Paskas Svetlana , Laube Markus , George Sven , Hofmann Bettina , Lönnecke Peter , Steinhilber Dieter , Pietzsch Jens , Mijatović Sanja S. , Maksimović‐Ivanić Danijela , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: December 2022

The selective inhibition of enzymes that catalyze the conversion of arachidonic acid to inflammatory eicosanoids represents a promising approach for cancer therapy. This study, therefore, focuses on the incorporation of metabolically stable, sterically demanding, and hydrophobic carboranes into existing dual cycloxygenase‐2 (COX‐2)/5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LO) inhibitors that are key enzymes in the biosynthesis of eicosanoids. Here, the first carborane‐containing dual COX‐2/5‐LO inhibitors derived from RWJ‐63556 are presented. The replacement of the fluorophenyl moiety by meta‐ or para‐carborane resulted in five carborane‐containing derivatives 3, 6, 9, 13, and 17 that show high inhibitory activities toward COX‐2 and 5‐LO in vitro. Cell viability studies on the A375 melanoma cell line revealed that meta‐carborane derivative 3 shows higher anticancer activity compared to RWJ‐63556 based on accumulation of lipid droplets in the cells due to blockage of the COX‐2 and 5‐LO pathways, indicating a promising approach for the design of potent dual COX‐2/5‐LO inhibitors.
Osteoradionecrosis of the lamina papyracea leading to recurrent orbital infections—A case study
Authors: Chua Andy Jian Kai , Jafar Ali B. H. A. , Citardi Martin Jason
Published: December 2022

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a well‐known complication of radiotherapy (RT) to the sino‐nasal cavity and nasopharynx. Here, we report a case of recurrent orbital infections secondary to ORN of the lamina papyracea (LP). A 66‐year‐old female presented to our unit with right periorbital swelling and pain after having undergone chemotherapy and proton beam irradiation to her ethmoid sinuses for sino‐nasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) 5 years prior. She had also undergone endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis about a year prior to the current presentation. Her post‐operative course was notable for recurrent episodes of pre‐septal cellulitis occurring about 3 months apart that were increasingly severe. Examination revealed right proptosis, and endoscopy showed an exposed and denuded LP with scant crusting of the ethmoid sinuses. Microbial studies did not yield any significant growth, and imaging showed enhancement of the right orbit. The working diagnosis was acute right orbital cellulitis secondary to ORN of the right LP. She was treated with broad spectrum intravenous antibiotics and systemic steroids, but experienced minimal symptomatic improvement. She then underwent endoscopic resection of the right LP, and histopathological examination showed osteonecrosis on an inflammatory background. Post‐operatively, all orbital symptoms resolved and she was well at 6 months' follow up. In the discussion, we highlight additional factors in our patient that may have contributed to this clinical presentation, and hope that this report raises awareness of a rare complication of RT to the sino‐nasal cavity.
Synaptic resilience is associated with maintained cognition during ageing
Authors: King Declan , Holt Kris , Toombs Jamie , HE Xin , Dando Owen , Okely Judith A , Tzioras Makis , Rose Jamie , Gunn Ciaran , Correia Adele , Montero Carmen , McAlister Hannah , Tulloch Jane , Lamont Douglas , Taylor Adele M , Harris Sarah E , Redmond Paul , Cox Simon R , Henstridge Christopher M , Deary Ian J , Smith Colin , Spires‐Jones Tara L
Published: December 2022

Introduction

It remains unclear why age increases risk of Alzheimer's disease and why some people experience age‐related cognitive decline in the absence of dementia. Here we test the hypothesis that resilience to molecular changes in synapses contribute to healthy cognitive ageing.

Methods

We examined post‐mortem brain tissue from people in mid‐life (n = 15), healthy ageing with either maintained cognition (n = 9) or lifetime cognitive decline (n = 8), and Alzheimer's disease (n = 13). Synapses were examined with high resolution imaging, proteomics, and RNA sequencing. Stem cell‐derived neurons were challenged with Alzheimer's brain homogenate.

Results

Synaptic pathology increased, and expression of genes involved in synaptic signaling decreased between mid‐life, healthy ageing and Alzheimer's. In contrast, brain tissue and neurons from people with maintained cognition during ageing exhibited decreases in synaptic signaling genes compared to people with cognitive decline.

Discussion

Efficient synaptic networks without pathological protein accumulation may contribute to maintained cognition during ageing.
Phenoxazine Polymer‐based p‐type Positive Electrode for Aluminum‐ion Batteries with Ultra‐long Cycle Life
Authors: Yang Zhaohui , Huang Xiaobing , Meng Pengyu , Jiang Min , Wang Yibo , Yao Zhenpeng , Zhang Jiao , Sun Baode , Fu Chaopeng
Published: December 2022

Aluminum‐ion batteries (AIBs) are a promising candidate for large‐scale energy storage due to the abundant reserves, low cost, good safety, and high theoretical capacity of Al. However, AIBs with inorganic positive electrodes still suffer from sluggish kinetics and structural collapse upon cycling. Herein, we propose a novel p‐type poly(vinylbenzyl‐N‐phenoxazine) (PVBPX) positive electrode for AIBs. The dual active sites enable PVBPX to deliver a high capacity of 133 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1. More impressively, the expanded π‐conjugated construction, insolubility, and anionic redox chemistry without bond rearrangement of PVBPX for AIBs contribute to an amazing ultra‐long lifetime of 50000 cycles. The charge storage mechanism is that the AlCl4− ions can reversibly coordinate/dissociate with the N and O sites in PVBPX sequentially, which is evidenced by both experimental and theoretical results. These findings establish a foundation to advance organic AIBs for large‐scale energy storage.
Long‐Term Stability Challenges and Opportunities in Acidic Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalysis
Authors: Wang Qilun , Cheng Yaqi , Tao Hua Bing , Liu Yuhang , Ma Xuehu , Li Dong‐Sheng , Yang Hong Bin , Liu Bin
Published: December 2022

Polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) has been regarded as a promising technology for renewable hydrogen production. However, acidic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts with long‐term stability impose a grand challenge in its large‐scale industrialization. In this review, critical factors that may lead to catalyst's instability in couple with potential solutions are comprehensively discussed, including mechanical peeling, substrate corrosion, active‐site over‐oxidation/dissolution, reconstruction, oxide crystal structure collapse through the lattice oxygen‐participated reaction pathway, etc. Last but not least, personal prospects are provided in terms of rigorous stability evaluation criteria, in situ/operando characterizations, economic feasibility and practical electrolyzer consideration, highlighting the ternary relationship of structure evolution, industrial‐relevant activity and stability to serve as a roadmap towards the ultimate application of PEMWE.
Investigating the synthesized sodium gluconate‐loaded chitosan microspheres on mild steel corrosion inhibition in acidic medium
Authors: Li Jiansan , Zhang Wenjing
Published: December 2022

In this research, the sodium gluconate‐loaded chitosan microspheres (SG/CM) are prepared by negative pressure impregnation after chitosan (CS) hydrothermally synthesized with vanillin (VA) to form chitosan microspheres (CM), which is in shape of ellipsoidal spheroid. The structures of the prepared micron materials are investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), while tungsten filament scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are used to characterize the morphology of the prepared. Moreover, the thermogravimetric characterization reveals that loading sodium gluconate made it more thermally stable. The corrosion inhibition performance of CS, CM, and SG/CM is investigated in 0.1 mol/L HCl by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), indicating an increase efficiency for inhibitors at higher concentrations, and the optimum is achieved by SG/CM at 200 mg/L, corresponding to weight loss measurements. The potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) test shows the best inhibition efficiency, 92.01% for SG/CM, which is superior to 52.23% for CS and 75.91% for CM. The surface features of corroded samples are investigated by Leica optical microscopy. Additionally, the inhibition mechanism of SG/CM is studied by building the Langmuir adsorption model, revealing that the inhibitory molecule occupies only one site on the themetallic surface.
Influence of processing conditions on the evolution of morphology in PVDF/PS and PP/PS polymer blends: Examining the processing‐phase inversion mechanism
Authors: Ramakrishnan Shashank , Lencar Calin , Sundararaj Uttandaraman
Published: December 2022

Understanding morphological changes in polymer blends in the initial melting region of an extruder is crucial for optimizing the polymer mixing process. In blends with a large difference in their softening temperatures, a processing‐phase inversion transition occurs when a larger volume‐fraction of the higher melting component is present. The morphological changes in 80/20 PVDF/PS blends were examined (where PVDF forms the major phase) in an internal mixer under different processing conditions, such as preset temperature program, fill volume and rotor speed. We studied the torque behavior, energy consumption during mixing and phase inversion point for both 80/20 PVDF/PS and 80/20 PP/PS blends. PP needed 2.4 times higher mechanical energy to be deformed and to achieve a similar phase inverted state, compared to PVDF. To examine the effect of the minor phase properties, two 80/20 PVDF/minor ph.ase systems were examined: (i) a low‐melting viscous EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer), and (ii) a low viscosity PCL (polycaprolactone). Using a range of techniques, such as torque monitoring, optical microscopy, SEM etc., it is established that the nature of the minor phase (amorphous vs. semicrystalline), minor phase melt viscosity and the exact processing parameters influence the point at which the phase inversion occurs.
Selective Production of 1,2‐Propanediol or 1,3‐Propanediol from Glycerol Hydrogenolysis over Transition Metal Doped Pt/TiO2
Authors: Luo Zhicheng , Zhu Zhiguo , Xiao Rui , Chu Dawang
Published: December 2022

Selective hydrogenolysis of biomass‐derived glycerol to propanediol is important for producing high value‐added chemicals from renewable resources but faces a huge challenge. Here we report a transition metal doped Pt/TiO2 catalyst with incorporated Cr, Mo, or W oxides, which exhibits the selective formation of 1,2‐propanediol or 1,3‐propanediol with a yield from 51.2% to 82.5% toward glycerol hydrogenolysis. In situ experimental studies verify that the surrounding CrOx decreases the hydrogenating ability of Pt, leading to the formation of 1,2‐propanediol, while the MoOx or WOx brings the Brønsted acid, giving 1,3‐propanediol. This modification based on the catalyst compositions alters the reaction pathway with a different adsorption and bond scission mechanism, which can be extended to other sustainable catalytic systems.
Solvent‐Controlled Photoswitching of Azobenzene: An Excited State Shuttle
Authors: Raman Arunachalam , Neelambra Afeefah U. , Karunakaran Venugopal , Easwaramoorthi Shanmugam
Published: December 2022

The light‐controlled excited state trans‐cis isomerization process is a key to the development of conversion of light energy to mechanical motion at the molecular level. Considerable efforts have been made in tuning the isomerization process with electron donor and acceptor substituents by altering the excited state reaction coordinate. Here, we report a two novel push‐pull series of para‐diethylamino (DEA) and diphenylamino (DPA) substituted (E)‐4′‐((4‐(diethylamino)phenyl)diazenyl)‐N,N‐diphenyl‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐amine (1) and (E)‐4′‐((4‐(diphenylamino)phenyl)diazenyl)‐N,N‐diphenyl‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐amine (2). Compounds 1 and 2 undergo both photochemical and photophysical excited state deactivation pathways which can be controlled by varying the solvent polarity. These structural motifs of 1 and 2 would undergo torsional motions upon excitation to exhibit either trans→cis photoisomerization or to form a twisted intramolecular charge transfer state and both the process originates from the same excited state and competes with each other. Thus, alternations in the surrounding environment such as solvent polarity, solution viscosity, and protonation were employed to understand the preferential excited state deactivation pathway and thereby these systems could be employed as a new class of azobenzene‐based luminescent photochromic molecules. For instance, in nonpolar solvent, toluene photoisomerization is preferred over TICT, but polar solvent, ethanol preferentially stabilizes the TICT state by virtue of N−C rotation which renders the energy barrier unfavourable for photoisomerization. The photostationary state of 1 in toluene is predominantly the Z isomer, whereas in ethanol E isomer is nearly two‐fold higher than the Z isomer. These feature sets up a new approach towards the construction of multinary molecular switches and subsequent development in diverse fields.
Erfahrungen im Rückbau von Spannbetonbrücken unter Einsatz von Vorschubrüstungen
Authors: Däbrit Michael , Buchmann Boris , Lang Matthias , Wagner Peter
Published: December 2022

Der Rückbau vorgespannter massiver Talbrücken auf einer Vorschubrüstung ist ein etabliertes Verfahren, wo konventioneller und sprengtechnischer Rückbau nicht angewendet werden kann. Im Erfahrungsbericht werden die Komponenten der Rückbaugerüste beschrieben, Besonderheiten dieser Rückbaumethode und Randbedingungen für den Einsatz von Vorschubrüstungen entgegen und in Herstellrichtung des abzubrechenden Bauwerks benannt sowie die Möglichkeit der Wiederverwendung der Vorschubrüstung für den Ersatzneubau. Schnittstellen zum Bauwerk werden definiert und Hinweise zur Planung derartiger Rückbauprojekte werden gegeben. Anhand des Beispiels Talbrücke Onsbach erfolgt eine Ablaufbeschreibung des Rückbauverfahrens.
Comparison of external system and implanted system in intrathecal therapy for refractory cancer pain in China: A retrospective study
Authors: Qin Wangjun , Zhao Li , Liu Botao , Yang Yang , Mao Peng , Xu Liyuan , Li Pengmei , Shang Yongguang , Zhang Lei , Fan Bifa
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Intrathecal therapy (ITT) via an implanted system was demonstrated for the treatment of refractory cancer pain for decades. Recently, the dissemination of ITT is enhanced in an external system way in Asia for a lower implantation cost. This study compares the efficacy, safety, and cost of the two ITT systems in refractory cancer pain patients in China.

Methods

One hundred and thirty‐nine cancer pain patients who underwent implantation of the ITT system were included. One hundred and three patients received ITT via the external system (external group), while 36 patients received ITT via the implanted system (implanted group). A 1:2 propensity score matching procedure was used to yield a total of 89 patients for the final analysis. Medical records of included patients were retrospectively reviewed and pain scores, incidences of complications, and costs were compared.

Results

ITT via the external system provided pain relief as potent as ITT via the implanted system but was less time‐consuming in the implantation phase (13 vs. 19 days,p < .01). Nausea/vomiting and urinary retention were the most frequent adverse events in both external and implanted groups (32.14%, 16.07% vs. 36.36%, 21.21%). No significant difference was found in the incidences of all kinds of complications. Compared to the implanted group, the external group cost less for the initial implantation (7268 vs. 26,275 US dollar [USD],p < .001) but had a significant higher maintenance cost (606.62 vs. 20.23 USD calculated monthly,p < .001).

Conclusions

ITT via the external system is as effective and safe as that via the implanted system and has the advantage of being cheap in the upfront implantation but costs more during the maintenance process in China.
A genetic off‐target event in a site‐specific integration cell line expressing monoclonal antibody has no impact on commercial suitability
Authors: Tevelev Barbara , Chambers Andre , Ghosh Swap , Zhang Ying , Marzili Lisa , Rouse Jason C. , Han Shu , Moffat Mark , Scarcelli John J.
Published: December 2022

Site‐specific integration (SSI) cell line systems are gaining popularity for biotherapeutic development and production. Despite the proven advantages for these expression hosts, the SSI system is still susceptible to rare off‐target events and potential vector rearrangements. Here we describe the development process of an SSI cell line for production of an IgG1 monoclonal antibody (mAb‐086). During cell line generational studies to assess suitability of clone C10 for commercial purposes, restriction fragment lengths of genomic DNA harboring the light chain (LC) were not in agreement with the predicted size. We first confirmed that the SSI landing‐pad achieved occupancy of the desired expression plasmid. Additional investigation revealed that random integration had occurred, resulting in the acquisition of a partial copy of the LC and a full‐length copy of the heavy chain (HC) at a different locus in the host genome. This off‐target event had no impact on the genotypic consistency and phenotypic stability of the cell line, the production process, or the drug substance product quality. Given the genetic, phenotypic, and process consistency of the cell line, clone C10 was deemed suitable as a manufacturing cell line.
Genetic testing women with newly diagnosed breast cancer: What criteria are the most predictive of a positive test?
Authors: Metcalfe Kelly A. , Narod Steven A. , Eisen Andrea , Poll Aletta , Zamani Neda , McCready David , Cil Tulin D. , Wright Frances C. , Lerner‐Ellis Jordan , McCuaig Jeanna , Graham Tracy , Sun Ping , Akbari Mohammad R.
Published: December 2022

Background

Knowledge of pathogenic variants in cancer‐predisposing genes is important when making breast cancer treatment decisions, but genetic testing is not universal and criteria must be met to qualify for genetic testing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pathogenic variant yield for nine cancer predisposition genes by testing criteria, singly and in combination.

Methods

Women diagnosed with breast cancer between June 2013 and May 2018 were recruited from four centers in Toronto, Canada. Participants completed a demographics and family history questionnaire and clinical characteristics were collected from medical charts. Genetic testing was done for BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, ATM, CHEK2, BRIP1, RAD51D, RECQL, and TP53. Pathogenic variant frequencies were calculated according to five criteria (age ≤ 50, triple‐negative breast cancer, family history, bilateral breast cancer, or Jewish ethnicity).

Results

Of the 1006 women studied, 100 women (9.9%) were found to have a pathogenic variant in one of the nine genes tested. The highest prevalence of pathogenic variants was found in women with triple‐negative breast cancer (23%). Of the 100 pathogenic variants detected, 78 were detected in women diagnosed at age 50 or less. A total of 96% of the mutations were identified with three criteria (age of diagnosis, family history, and triple‐negative status).

Conclusions

Genetic testing criteria for women with breast cancer should include women with triple‐negative breast cancer, regardless of age. All women aged 50 years or below at time of breast cancer diagnosis should be offered genetic testing.
Upregulation of Tim‐3 is associated with poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Wu Zhengwei , Ou Jiawang , Liu Nannan , Wang Zhixiang , Chen Junjie , Cai Zihong , Liu Xiaoli , Yu Xiao , Dai Min , Zhou Hongsheng
Published: December 2022

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous hematopoietic malignancy originated from leukemia stem cells (LSC). Emerging evidence suggests T‐cell immunoglobulin mucin‐3(Tim3) as surface marker for LSC. However, the clinical significance and biology of Tim‐3 in AML remain to be determined, especially those LSCs. In public AML databases as well as our data, we separated AML patients into Tim‐3high and Tim‐3low subsets using the X‐tile software and evaluated the associations between Tim‐3 and overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS). The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort revealed that high Tim‐3 expression in leukemic cells was linked with poor prognosis (DFS: p = 0.018; OS: p = 0.041). Furthermore, multiple regression analysis shows that Tim‐3 was an independent factor for the prognosis (HR = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.15–4.44, p = 0.017). Validation cohort of public gene expression omnibus (GEO) confirmed that Tim‐3 was a prognostic candidate in AML. Besides, in our internal cohort, we also confirmed that over expression of Tim‐3 protein in LSC/LPC made poor prognosis in AML. Additionally, we revealed that the LSC markers AKR1C3, CD34, and MMRN1 were upregulated in the Tim‐3high group of TCGA. We found that the upregulated genes in the Tim‐3high group were mainly enriched in immune response, cytokine binding and cell adhesion molecules, and JAK–STAT signaling pathway, by gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Collectively, we revealed that, for the first time, upregulation of Tim‐3 in LSCs at the level of gene and protein expression is associated with poor prognosis and the important biological feature of Tim‐3 of LSC in AML.
Rifampin‐induced acute kidney injury and hemolysis: A case report and literature review of a rare condition
Authors: Ata Fateen , Magboul Hiba M. B. , Toba Haneen A. A. , Alfar Hadeel , Al Bozom Adel , Murshed Khaled , Zahid Muhammad
Published: December 2022

Rifampicin is a bactericidal drug used in various infectious diseases, including tuberculosis (TB). Nephrotoxicity is a rare side effect of intermittent Rifampin use and even less commonly continued use. We report a case of Rifampin‐induced acute tubular necrosis and hemolysis in a patient with latent TB with a relevant literature review.
Henry gas bird swarm optimization algorithm‐based deep learning for brain tumor classification using magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Ponnupilla Omana Sinciya , Dar Jawad Ahmad , Rajesh Kumar Thevasigamani , Sampath Arpakkam Karuppan , Sharma Sudhir
Published: December 2022

In order to categorize brain tumors, this study uses a deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) based on Henry gas bird swarm optimization (HGBSO). The Henry gas solubility optimization (HGSO) and bird swarm algorithm techniques were merged to form the HGBSO algorithm, which was used to train the DCNN classifier. Following the first preprocessing of the images using the Gaussian filter, the Region of Interest extraction approach is utilized to reduce noise from the input MR images. After that, the regions of brain tumors are divided using a deep fuzzy clustering technique. Meanwhile, key characteristics are taken from the segmented image in order to perform an efficient classification procedure. Moreover, for improving the classification accuracy rate, data augmentation is performed. Finally, the augmented data along with total features are considered as input for developed HGBSO trained DCNN classifier, where the classification of brain tumor is performed. In terms of various metrics, the developed strategy performs better than other existing methods, obtaining values of 0.9221 for accuracy, 0.9324 for sensitivity, and 0.9295 for specificity.
An active clamp coupled inductor‐based soft‐switched quadratic boost converter
Authors: Upadhyay Prashant , Sharma Preeti , Khandelwal Subodh , Kumar Rajneesh , Hassanpour Sara
Published: December 2022

This paper proposes a novel active clamp‐based quadratic boost converter to achieve a high gain output voltage. The converter combines a quadratic boost converter with a voltage doubler circuit using a coupled inductor. An active clamp circuit with an auxiliary switch is used to utilize the usually wasted energy of leakage inductance and clamp the voltage to a certain limit. The combination of leakage inductance and parasitic capacitance of the main switch provides the benefit of zero voltage switching (ZVS) in both MOSFETs. Similarly, output diodes operating under zero current switching (ZCS) improve the overall efficiency of the converter. Voltage doubler and active clamp circuitry reduce the voltage stress on solid‐state devices; hence, a low Rds,ondevice is selected. The converter model is simulated using PSIM software and calculated maximum efficiency of ~95% for 200 W and measured maximum efficiency of ~93% for 190 W power level including various parasitic elements.
Design and analysis of single and multi‐input multioutput triple‐band metamaterial inspired antennas for WiMAX, WLAN, and satellite applications
Authors: El Yassini Abdessalam , Ibnyaich Saida , Nguyen Truong Khang , Zeroual Abdelouhab
Published: December 2022

This work proposes an electrical compact triple‐bands antenna founded on a composite left‐/right‐handed approach. This structure contains a rectangular patch combined with two unit cells based on the metamaterial properties that are used to produce wide electrical lengths in miniature physical sizes. Thus, the presented antenna is designed with a lower resonant frequency and miniature physical dimensions compared to conventional antennas. The suggested antenna has been produced on top of the FR4 substrate having tan δ = 0.022, εr = 4.58, and a size of 28 × 16 × 1.6 mm3. This structure provides three bandwidths of (2.391–2.54 GHz), (3.42–3.56 GHz), and (5.02–11.40 GHz). Additionally, a multi‐input multioutput (MIMO) antenna is designed by placing two similar radiating patches in a perpendicular shape. Therefore, this design approach has been used to achieve an important isolation among ports and less than −30 dB at frequency bands. The results of radiation patterns, envelope correlation coefficient, diversity gain, and channel capacity loss are below to 0.06, 10 dB, and 0.4 b/s/Hz respectively, which confirms that the MIMO antenna is compatible with wireless MIMO devices. These antennas have been modeled and experimentally confirmed, and the results have proven that the suggested antennas are useable and can support multi‐standard wireless applications.
Optimizing cCOG, a Web‐based tool, to detect dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: van Gils Aniek M. , van de Beek Marleen , van Unnik Annemartijn A. J. M. , Tolonen Antti , Handgraaf Dédé , van Leeuwenstijn Mardou , Lötjönen Jyrki , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Lemstra Afina , Rhodius‐Meester Hanneke F. M.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Distinguishing dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) from Alzheimer's disease (AD) is challenging due to overlapping presentations. We adapted a Web‐based test tool, cCOG, by adding a visuospatial task and a brief clinical survey and assessed its ability to differentiate between DLB and AD.

Methods

We included 110 patients (n= 30 DLB,n= 32 AD dementia, andn= 48 controls with subjective cognitive decline (SCD)). Full cCOG comprises six cognitive subtasks and a survey addressing self‐reported DLB core and autonomic features. First, we compared cCOG cognitive tasks to traditional neuropsychological tasks for all diagnostic groups and clinical questions to validated assessments of clinical features in DLB only. Then, we studied the performance of cCOG cognitive tasks and clinical questions, separately and combined, in differentiating diagnostic groups.

Results

cCOG cognitive tasks and clinical survey had moderate to strong correlations to standard neuropsychological testing (.61≤rs≤ .77) and to validated assessments of clinical features (.41≤rs≤ .65), except for fluctuations and REM‐sleep behavior disorder (RBD) (rs= .32 andrs= .10). Full cCOG, including both cognitive tasks and brief survey had a diagnostic accuracy (acc) of 0.82 [95% CI 0.73–0.89], with good discrimination of DLB versus AD (acc 0.87 [0.76–0.95]) and DLB versus controls (acc 0.94 [0.86–0.98]).

Conclusion

We illustrated that cCOG aids in distinguishing DLB and AD patients by using remote assessment of cognition and clinical features. Our findings pave the way to a funneled, harmonized diagnostic process among memory clinics and, eventually, a more timely and accurate diagnosis of DLB and AD.
Use your office's website to educate students and families
Authors: Hamblet Elizabeth C.
Published: December 2022

In my first article for this series on helping students make a smooth college transition (https://bit.ly/3Eq13Cq), I discussed the undercurrent of anxiety I sense in my interactions with high school students and their families, which is caused in part by misinformation they hear about the admissions process. In this article, I'll suggest ways to make your office's website welcoming (as a way of calming anxieties about accommodations), while also making it useful (in educating families about the changes students will encounter at college).
Phylogeography of the endangered “eyed” turtles (genus Sacalia) and the discovery of a lineage derived from natural interspecific hybridization
Authors: Lin Liu , Chen Huai‐Qing , Gaillard Daniel , Shi Hai‐Tao , Luo Shu‐Jin
Published: December 2022

The herpetofauna of the Indomalayan bioregion of Asia suffers from severe habitat loss, unsustainable harvesting, and lack of research and conservation. Here, we investigated the range‐wide phylogeography of the endangered “eyed” turtles (genus Sacalia, including the Beale's Eyed Turtle S. bealei and the Four‐eyed Turtle S. quadriocellata) and discovered a natural interspecific hybrid turtle population in China. Based on phylogeny of the mitochondrial Cytochrome b gene of 101 samples in this study and public data, three major clades and six subclades were identified: S. bealei (SBE) in eastern‐southern China, east S. quadriocellata in South China (northern east [SQUen] and southern east [SQUes] subclades), and west S. quadriocellata mainly in Vietnam (northern west [SQUwn], central west [SQUwc], and southern west [SQUws] subclades). We sequenced 16 nuclear DNA loci of 87 samples from SBE, SQUen, SQUes, and SQUwn subclades. Population genetic clustering analysis suggested a structure similar to the mitochondrial phylogeny, where most samples were classified into four genetic clusters corresponding to the four mtDNA subclades. However, a proportion of samples carrying SQUen mtDNA haplotypes formed an additional distinct cluster SHY. Those samples are found in the contact zone of the two species bearing mosaic and intermediate morphological characteristics. We detected an admixed ancestry in SHY from SBE and SQUen that conformed to an intrapopulation breeding scenario for at least hundreds of generations after the initial hybrid event, leading to a conclusion that SHY is a distinct and near‐panmictic population derived from natural interspecific hybridization. In addition, SQUes (Hainan Island endemic) is of special concern due to significant isolation and low genetic diversity. We suggest that seven evolutionarily significant units should be recognized to facilitate appropriate conservation actions. These findings also highlight the urgent need for further herpetological research and conservation in this region.