bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyaluronic acid encapsulated aminated mesoporous silica nanoparticles for pH‐responsive delivery of methotrexate and release kinetics
Authors: Rui Qian , Yin Zheng‐Zhi , Cai Wenrong , Li Junyao , Wu Datong , Kong Yong
Published: February 2022

A simple drug controlled delivery system is facilely designed for pH‐responsive delivery of methotrexate (MTX), an anticancer drug. Aminated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (AMSNs) were first synthesized for the loading of MTX, and then the MTX‐loaded AMSN (AMSN‐MTX) was encapsulated with hyaluronic acid (HA) through electrostatic attractions. Successful preparation of the HA‐encapsulated AMSN‐MTX (AMSN‐MTX‐HA) is confirmed by different characterizations such as scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, x‐ray diffraction, and so on. Because the protonation/deprotonation of HA is closely related to pH, the electrostatic interactions between HA and AMSN depend closely on the pH of the medium and thus pH‐responsive delivery of MTX is achieved. The release kinetic data of MTX from the carrier fit well to Higuchi and Korsmeyer‐Peppas models. Cell experiments indicate that the developed AMSN‐MTX‐HA displays high inhibitory effect on hepatoma (SMMC‐7721) cells while the drug‐free carrier of AMSN‐HA has good biocompatibility.
Exome sequencing identified a novel HIST1H1E heterozygous protein‐truncating variant in a 6‐month‐old male patient with Rahman syndrome: A case report
Authors: Indugula Subba Rao , Ayala Sofia Saenz , Vetrini Francesco , Belonis Alyce , Zhang Wenying
Published: February 2022

Rahman syndrome is a rare congenital anomaly syndrome recently described, which results from pathogenic variants in the HIST1H1E gene. The condition is characterized by variable somatic overgrowth, macrocephaly, distinctive facial features, intellectual disability, and behavioral problems. This report extends the genotype and clinical phenotype of HIST1H1E‐associated Rahman syndrome.
Solvent‐Regulated Diastereodivergent [3 + 2] Annulations of CF3‐Containing Morita−Baylis−Hillman Carbonates with Cyclic Sulfonimines
Authors: Liu Bao‐Xin , Yan Ru‐Jie , Du Wei , Chen Ying‐Chun
Published: February 2022

Comprehensive Summary

A solvent‐regulated diastereodivergent [3 + 2] annulation reaction between Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman carbonates from aryl trifluoromethyl ketones and cyclic sulfonimines is developed under the catalysis of a modified cinchona alkaloid, furnishing diverse polycyclic products bearing vicinal quaternary stereogenic centers with outstanding enantioselectivity and moderate to high diastereoselectivity.
Using latent class analysis to identify clinical features of patients with occlusive myocardial infarction: Preangiogram prediction remains difficult
Authors: Knoery Charles , McEwan Katie. A. , Manktelow Matthew , Watt Jonathan , Smith Jamie , Iftikhar Aleeha , Rjoob Khaled , Bond Raymond , McGilligan Victoria , Peace Aaron , McShane Anne , Heaton Janet , Leslie Stephen J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Treatment decisions in myocardial infarction (MI) are currently stratified by ST elevation (ST‐elevation myocardial infarction [STEMI]) or lack of ST elevation (non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction [NSTEMI]) on the electrocardiogram. This arose from the assumption that ST elevation indicated acute coronary artery occlusion (OMI). However, one‐quarter of all NSTEMI cases are an OMI, and have a higher mortality. The purpose of this study was to identify features that could help identify OMI.

Methods

Prospectively collected data from patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was analyzed. Data included presentation characteristics, comorbidities, treatments, and outcomes. Latent class analysis was undertaken, to determine patterns of presentation and history associated with OMI.

Results

A total of 1412 patients underwent PCI for acute MI, and 263 were diagnosed as OMI. Compared to nonocclusive MI, OMI patients are more likely to have fewer comorbidities but no difference in cerebrovascular disease and increased acute mortality (4.2% vs. 1.1%; p < .001). Of OMI, 29.5% had delays to their treatment such as immediate reperfusion therapy. With latent class analysis, while clusters of similar patients are observed in the data set, the data available did not usefully identify patients with OMI compared to non‐OMI.

Conclusion

Features between OMI and STEMI are broadly very similar. However, there was no difference in age and risk of cerebrovascular disease in the OMI/non‐OMI group. There are no reliable characteristics therefore for identifying OMI versus non‐OMI. Delays to treatment also suggest that OMI patients are still missing out on optimal treatment. An alternative strategy is required to improve the identification of OMI patients.
CHA2DS2‐VASc and PESI scores are associated with right ventricular dysfunction on computed tomography pulmonary angiography in patients with acute pulmonary thromboembolism
Authors: Alirezaei Toktam , Mahboubi‐Fooladi Zahra , Irilouzadian Rana , Saberi Shahrbabaki Ali , Golestani Haniyeh
Published: February 2022

Background

Accurate risk stratification is the most important step in the management of patients with acute pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE). Pulmonary embolism severity index (PESI) is a clinical tool for PTE risk stratification. CHA2DS2‐VASc score, a risk assessment tool in patients with atrial fibrillation, is recently considered for acute PTE. The presence of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction in imaging is more efficient in acute PTE risk evaluation.

Hypothesis

This study aims to evaluate the association between CHA2DS2‐VASc and PESI score and each of them with RV dysfunction on computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA).

Methods

One hundred eighteen patients with a definite diagnosis of PTE were entered. The CHA2DS2‐VASc and PESI scores were calculated for all of them. RV dysfunction including an increase in RV to left ventricular diameter ratio, interventricular septal bowing, and reflux of contrast medium into the inferior vena cava was examined by CTPA.

Results

PESI and CHA2DS2‐VASc scores were significantly associated with RV dysfunction. In addition, different classes of PESI scores were correlated with RV dysfunction. Moreover, this study showed that the CHA2DS2‐VASc score and PESI score had a positive correlation. The area under the curve value for the CHA2DS2‐VASc score was 0.625 with 61.54% sensitivity and 60.0% specificity for predicting RV dysfunction while for PESI score was 0.635 with 66.7% sensitivity and 60.0% specificity.

Conclusion

This study showed that not only CHA2DS2‐VASc and PESI scores are positively correlated, but they are both associated with RV dysfunction diagnosed by CTPA. CHA2DS2‐VASc and PESI scores are able to predict RV dysfunction.
Chiral Expression and Morphology Control in Polymer Dispersion Systems
Authors: Cheng Xiaoxiao , Miao Tengfei , Ma Yafei , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2022

The chiral self‐assembly of polymers in dispersions plays an important role in chiral chemistry and self‐assembly. In general, both polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) and post‐polymerization self‐assembly can be used to prepare polymer nanoassemblies. In chirality induction or transfer processes, the self‐assembly manner of the polymers greatly affects the chiral expression of the nanostructure and cannot be ignored in the chiral fields. Moreover, unique chiral expression and morphological transition of polymer assemblies in dispersions enable the preparation of advanced functional chiroptical materials. Herein, this Review discusses recent advances in chiral expression and morphology control in polymer dispersion systems, particularly the comparison between traditional post‐polymerization self‐assembly and in situ PISA strategies, to predict and advance chirality control in polymers.
Atomically Dispersed Zn‐Stabilized Niδ+ Enabling Tunable Selectivity for CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Wang Yaning , Feng Kai , Tian Jiaming , Zhang Jiajun , Zhao Baohuai , Luo Kai Hong , Yan Binhang
Published: February 2022

For a heterogeneous catalytic process, the performance of catalysts could be improved by modifying the active metal with a second element. Determining the enhanced mechanism of the second element is essential to the rational design of catalysts. In this work, Zn was introduced as a second element into Ni/ZrO2 for CO2 hydrogenation. In contrast to Ni/ZrO2, the selectivity of NiZn/ZrO2 is observed to shift from CH4 to CO. A series of structural characterization results reveals that Zn is atomically dispersed in the NiO and ZrO2 phases as NiZnOx and ZnZrOx, respectively during CO2 hydrogenation, stabilizing a higher valence state of Ni (Niδ+) under a hydrogenation atmosphere over Ni−O−Zn site and thus promoting the generation of CO. These findings shed light on the O‐mediated bimetallic effect of NiZn/ZrO2 and bring new insight into the rational design of more efficient heterogeneous catalysts.
Experimental repatriation of snowshoe hares along a southern range boundary reveals historical community interactions
Authors: Wilson Evan C. , Zuckerberg Benjamin , Peery M. Zachariah , Pauli Jonathan N.
Published: February 2022

Climate change is altering interspecific interactions globally, yet community‐level responses are difficult to predict due to both the direct and indirect effects of changing abiotic and biotic conditions. Snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) are particularly vulnerable to decreasing snow cover and resultant camouflage mismatch. This species shares a suite of predators with alternative prey species including porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) and ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus), and all three species historically exhibited synchronized population dynamics. Recently, the community has become partially disassembled, notably with the loss of snowshoe hares and associated enemy‐mediated indirect interactions resulting from declining snow duration. Specifically, we hypothesized that the extirpation of hares in the early 1990s indirectly increased predation pressure on ruffed grouse and porcupines. To test our hypothesis, we experimentally translocated 96 snowshoe hares to a site within a regional ecotone between northern and southern forests where snowshoe hares were recently extirpated and monitored community members before, during, and after translocation. Ruffed grouse were only loosely associated with the biotic interactions that linked porcupines and snowshoe hares, likely due to predation occurring from avian predators and strong negative direct effects of declining winter snow depths. In contrast, predation of neonate porcupines was virtually non‐existent following repatriation, compared with periods without hares. This abrupt attenuation of predation did not increase overall survival due to increased non‐predation mortality from cold, early spring weather. Porcupines directly benefited from warming winters: decreased snow cover increased adult survival and warmer temperatures around parturition increased maternal condition and reduced non‐predation causes of mortality for neonates. Our experimental manipulation suggests that enemy‐mediated indirect interactions were likely to be important features of this community; however, climate change has disrupted these interactions, resulting in extirpation of a central prey species (snowshoe hare) and increased predation of an alternative prey species (porcupine). We show complex effects from climate change with some species directly and negatively affected, while others benefited from direct effects of warming winters, but suffered negative effects from indirect interactions. Due to absent snowshoe hares and associated biotic interactions, continued persistence of this community module is unlikely, potentially resulting in altered no‐analog communities along trailing edge distributions.
Heart transplantation outcomes in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy: a contemporary national analysis
Authors: Giuliano Katherine , Scheel Paul , Etchill Eric , Fraser Charles D. , Suarez‐Pierre Alejandro , Hsu Steven , Wittstein Ilan S. , Kasper Edward K. , Florido Roberta , Tandri Harikrishna , Calkins Hugh , Choi Chun W. , Sharma Kavita , Kilic Ahmet , Gilotra Nisha A.
Published: February 2022

Aims

Heart failure is an increasingly recognized later stage manifestation of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) that can require heart transplantation (HT) to appropriately treat. We aimed to study contemporary ARVC HT outcomes in a national registry.

Methods and results

The United Network for Organ Sharing registry was queried for HT recipients from 1/1994 through 2/2020. ARVC patients were compared with non‐ARVC dilated, restrictive, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy HT patients (HT for ischaemic and valvular disease was excluded from analysis). Post‐HT survival was assessed using Kaplan–Meier estimates. A total of 189 of 252 (75%) waitlisted ARVC patients (median age 48 years, 65% male) underwent HT, representing 0.3% of the total 65 559 HT during the study time period. Annual frequency of HT for ARVC increased significantly over time. ARVC patients had less diabetes (5% vs. 17%, P < 0.001), less cigarette use (15% vs. 23%, P < 0.001), lower pulmonary artery and pulmonary capillary wedge pressures, and lower cardiac output than the 33 659 non‐ARVC patients (P < 0.001). Ventricular assist device use was significantly lower in ARVC patients (8% vs. 32%, P < 0.001); 1 and 5 year post‐HT survival was 97% and 93% for ARVC vs. 95% and 82% for non‐ARVC HT recipients (P < 0.001). On adjusted multivariable Cox regression, ARVC had decreased risk of post‐HT death compared with non‐ARVC aetiologies (hazard ratio 0.48, 95% confidence interval 0.28–0.82, P = 0.008). Patients with ARVC also had lower risk of death or graft failure than non‐ARVC patients (hazard ratio 0.51, 95% confidence interval 0.32–0.81, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

In the largest series of HT in ARVC, we found that HT is increasingly performed in ARVC, with higher survival compared with other cardiomyopathy aetiologies. The right ventricular predominant pathophysiology may require unique considerations for heart failure management, including HT.
Specificity of mouse and human Fcgamma receptors and their polymorphic variants for IgG subclasses of different species
Authors: Wang Yu , Krémer Vanessa , Iannascoli Bruno , Goff Odile Richard‐Le , Mancardi David A. , Ramke Leoni , de Chaisemartin Luc , Bruhns Pierre , Jönsson Friederike
Published: February 2022

IgG is the predominant antibody class generated during infections and used for the generation of therapeutic antibodies. Antibodies are mainly characterized in or generated from animal models that support particular infections, respond to particular antigens or allow the generation of hybridomas. Due to the availability of numerous transgenic mouse models and the ease of performing bioassays with human blood cells in vitro, most antibodies from species other than mice and humans are tested in vitro using human cells and/or in vivo using mice. In this process, it is expected, but not yet systematically documented, that IgG from these species interact with human or mouse IgG receptors (FcγRs). In this study, we undertook a systematic assessment of binding specificities of IgG from various species to the families of mouse and human FcγRs including their polymorphic variants. Our results document the specific binding patterns for each of these IgG (sub)classes, reveal possible caveats of antibody‐based immunoassays, and will be a useful reference for the transition from one animal model to preclinical mouse models or human cell‐based bioassays.
The Mizoroki‐Heck Reaction in Tunable Aryl Alkyl Ionic Liquids
Authors: Lerch Swantje , Fritsch Stefan , Strassner Thomas
Published: February 2022

We report the use of imidazolium based tunable aryl alkyl ionic liquids (TAAILs) as solvents in the Mizoroki–Heck reaction. Different commercially available palladium sources, inorganic bases, TAAILs and reaction conditions were tested for the synthesis of trans‐stilbene using bromobenzene and styrene. A variety of different stilbene derivatives were synthesized with exclusive formation of the (E)‐isomers and isolated yields up to 97 %. We were able to optimize the reaction conditions using only 0.25 mol% of Pd(OAc)2 as the catalyst and a reaction time of 4 hours. No additional ligands or additives are used in the reaction. The catalytic system using TAAILs achieved higher yields than commercially available imidazolium and phosphonium ionic liquids, demonstrating the potential of tailored ionic liquids as a reaction medium for the Mizoroki–Heck reaction.
Morphology Control of Free‐Standing LiFePO4‐Based Composite Membranes for Advanced Lithium‐Ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Zhu Haifeng , Xie Yousen , Zou Shufen , Na Bing , Zeng Rong , Zhang Shuang
Published: February 2022

High conductivity, facilitating rapid electron transport and ion diffusion, is necessary for high‐performance lithium‐ion battery cathodes. At a given electrode formula, it is critical to tailor the distribution of conductive agents in the cathodes to achieve a highly conductive network.Herein, free‐standing LiFePO4‐based composite membranes with a high conductivity of 2.55 S cm−1 are obtained by adding alcohol in the aqueous slurry. The composite membranes have superior rate capability and a specific capacity of about 116 and 105 mAhg−1 is achieved at 5 C for a LiFePO4 mass loading of about 6 and 10 mg cm−2, respectively. Furthermore, a specific capacity is retained as 137.2 mAhg−1 after 300 cycles at 1 C, corresponding to excellent long‐term cyclic stability of the composite membranes.
The mind‐in‐mind study: A pilot randomised controlled trial that compared modified mentalisation based treatment with supportive clinical management for patients with eating disorders without borderline personality disorder
Authors: Sonntag Miranda , Russell Janice
Published: February 2022

Objective

Mentalisation‐based treatment (MBT) aims to improve reflective functioning. There is a growing evidence base outlining positive clinical outcomes for the use of MBT in eating disorder patients with co‐morbid borderline personality disorder (BPD). The use of MBT has not been studied for eating disorder patients without BPD. This pilot study is an exploratory randomised controlled trial in which outcomes from MBT are compared with standard clinical management in a cohort of patients diagnosed with an eating disorder but not BPD. The main objectives were two‐fold—to explore the use of MBT as a therapeutic modality and to test the acceptability and feasibility of the protocol design.

Method

Thirty‐two participants were randomised to receive either MBT or standard treatment during an inpatient eating disorders program. All patients enrolled in the study were diagnosed with an eating disorder but did not meet DSM‐5 criteria for BPD. On admission patients were categorised as very underweight (BMI 15.0–16.4 kg/m2), underweight (BMI 16.5–18.4 kg/m2) or healthy weight range (BMI ≥ 18.5–24.9 kg/m2). Upon discharge participants were further categorised as weight restored (BMI ≥ 18.5 kg/m2) or non‐weight restored (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2). The primary outcome was the subscale score on the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (RFQ‐8). Secondary outcomes were subscale scores on the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS)‐21. Participants were assessed at baseline and on discharge. Statistical significance was determined using repeated measurements analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results

Both groups experienced improvements in eating disorder symptoms and measures of psychological well‐being. Participants within the MBT group exhibited greater improvements in reflective capacity as defined by the RFQ‐8 however these benefits appeared to be limited to patients who achieved weight restoration at discharge. The eligibility criteria—which excluded comorbid BPD—led to challenges in recruitment which limited the power of the study analysis. As participants with a range of different eating disorder diagnoses were included this led to complexities in estimating the treatment effect within a defined cohort.

Conclusions

Although the small sample size must be noted as a limitation—the finding that weight restoration appears to be associated with improvements in reflective capacity in MBT would be worth exploring in a subsequent larger study. Modification of eligibility criteria and recruitment from a defined cohort may increase the efficiency of a future study.
Debris flow initiation in postglacial terrain: Insights from shallow landslide initiation models and geomorphic mapping in Southeast Alaska
Authors: Patton Annette I. , Roering Joshua J. , Orland Elijah
Published: February 2022

Debris flows pose persistent hazards and shape high‐relief landscapes in diverse physiographic settings, but predicting the spatiotemporal occurrence of debris flows in postglacial topography remains challenging. To evaluate the debris flow process in high‐relief postglacial terrain, we conducted a geomorphic investigation to characterize geologic, glacial, volcanic, and land use contributions to landslide initiation across Southeast Alaska. To evaluate controls on landslide (esp. debris flow) occurrence in Sitka, we used field observation, geomorphic mapping, landslide characteristics as documented in the Tongass National Forest inventory, and a novel application of the shallow landslide model SHALSTAB to postglacial terrain. A complex geomorphic history of glaciation and volcanic activity provides a template for spatially heterogeneous landslide occurrence. Landslide density across the region is highly variable, but debris flow density is high on south‐ or southeast‐facing hillslopes where volcanic tephra soils are present and/or where timber harvest has occurred since 1900. High landslide density along the western coast of Baranof and Kruzof islands coincides with deposition of glacial sediment and thick tephra and exposure to extreme rainfall from atmospheric rivers on south‐facing aspects but the relative contributions of these controls are unclear. Timber harvest has also been identified as an important control on landslide occurrence in the region. Focusing on a subset of geo‐referenced landslides near Sitka, we used the SHALSTAB shallow landslide initiation model, which has been frequently applied in non‐glacial terrain, to identify areas of high landslide potential in steep, convergent terrain. In a validation against mapped landslide polygons, the model significantly outperformed random guessing, with area under the curve (AUC) = 0.709 on a performance classification curve of true positives vs. false positives. This successful application of SHALSTAB demonstrates practical utility for hazards analysis in postglacial landscapes to mitigate risk to people and infrastructure.
On‐site geometric calibration of RPAS mounted sensors for SfM photogrammetric geomorphological surveys
Authors: Senn Johannes Antenor , Mills Jon , Walsh Claire L. , Addy Stephen , Peppa Maria‐Valasia
Published: February 2022

The application of structure from motion (SfM) photogrammetry for digital elevation model (DEM) and orthophoto generation from visible imagery enjoys ever‐growing popularity in geomorphological research. Photogrammetry experts, however, urge that a rigorous approach is a prerequisite for reliable results—a requirement that may conflict with real‐world survey. We present a method that unites the two disciplines, using the example of a challenging SfM photogrammetric survey at a Scottish river. Using simultaneous geometric pre‐calibration of a multi‐sensor remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS), the method facilitates time‐efficient topography mapping and the integration of other wavelengths to create orthophotos providing additional surface information. The approach utilizes an on‐site 3D structure—for example, a building, as calibration object, by extracting coordinates of natural features from lidar scans and sensor imagery. We assess the workflow with specialized calibration software (VMS) and widely applied commercial SfM photogrammetric software (AM), using a DJI Phantom optical and a Workswell thermal sensor. We achieved calibration accuracies below one‐third (optical) and one‐quarter (thermal) of a pixel. Subsequently, we transfer the sensor parameters to pre‐calibrate the SfM application and compare the results to a self‐calibrated workflow. In a systematic experiment using the optical river survey dataset, we assess the effectiveness of pre‐calibration, oblique imagery, scale variation and masking to mitigate systematic DEM errors. Opposing trends show between the calibration strategies. Decreasing network complexity (i.e., flying heights/view angles) improves pre‐calibrated but compromises self‐calibrated scenarios. Pre‐calibrating (VMS) imagery from a single height (30 m nadir) yielded the best results. This finding could have implications for geomorphological surveys, in which single‐scale datasets are widespread practice, despite the literature's urge towards more complex imaging networks. The self‐calibrated results legitimise this insistence: The same dataset resulted in pronounced dome‐shaped DEM distortion, indicating systematic errors, whereas additional flying heights and angles significantly improved the results.
Trends in Global, Regional, and National Burden and Quality of Care Index for Liver Cancer by Cause from Global Burden of Disease 1990‐2019
Authors: Ghamari Seyyed‐Hadi , Yoosefi Moein , Abbasi‐Kangevari Mohsen , Malekpour Mohammad‐Reza , Saeedi Moghaddam Sahar , Shahin Sarvenaz , Esfahani Zahra , Koolaji Sogol , Shobeiri Parnian , Ghaffari Aydin , Sohrabi Hanye , Kazemi Ameneh , Rezaei Negar , Larijani Bagher , Farzadfar Farshad
Published: February 2022

Despite the tremendous burden of liver cancer and its underlying causes on humankind, there appear to be heterogeneities in coping approaches. The objective of this study was to compare the burden and the quality‐of‐care of liver cancer by causes among different countries and regions in both sexes and various age groups 1990‐2019. Data of liver cancer and underlying causes, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), alcohol use, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and other causes were obtained from the Global Burden of Diseases 2019. Incidence, prevalence, death, and disability‐adjusted life‐years (DALYs) were assessed. Principal component analysis was used to combine age‐standardized mortality‐to‐incidence ratio, DALY‐to‐prevalence ratio, prevalence‐to‐incidence ratio, and years of life lost–to–years lived with disability into a single proxy named Quality of Care Index (QCI). Globally, the age‐standardized incidence, DALYs, and death rates decreased from 1990 to 2019, while the QCI scores increased by 68.5%. The QCI score of liver cancer was from as high as 83.3 in high Sociodemographic Index (SDI) countries to values as low as 26.4 in low SDI countries in 2019. Japan had the highest QCI score (QCI = 100). The age‐standardized death rates of liver cancer due to all underlying causes were decreasing during the past 30 years, with the most decrease for HBV. Consistently, the global QCI scores of liver cancer due to HBV, HCV, alcohol use, NASH, and other causes reached 53.5, 61.8, 54.3, 52.9, and 63.7, respectively, in 2019. Conclusion: Although the trends in burden are decreasing and the QCI improved from 1990 to 2019 globally, there is a wide gap between countries. Given the inequities in health care quality, there is an urgent need to address discrimination and bridge the gap.
Domain adaptation and weight initialization of neural networks for diagnosing interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Thorat Onkar , Salvi Siddharth , Dedhia Shrey , Bhadane Chetashri , Dongre Deepika
Published: February 2022

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are adverse disorders, damaging the lung tissues, thus making timely diagnosis imperative. To counter the scarcity of publicly available high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) data, architecture employing HRCT and x‐ray data have been proposed for diagnosing ILDs. A model is first trained to diagnose three ILDs and a healthy lung from x‐ray data and then with a small amount of HRCT data of the same four classes. We introduce an EfficientNet+AlexNet model and a custom deep convolutional neural network and compare their performances with different weight initialization at the start of x‐ray image training. The EfficientNet+AlexNet model initialized with ImageNet weights performed best on the x‐ray dataset and was later used for domain adaptation. We also compare our model's performance to a single pre‐trained EfficientNetB0 model (trained on the same HRCT data). Our model gave an accuracy of 97.4% on the testing dataset, a notable increase in the performance compared to the recently proposed methodologies. The experimental results and graphical plots depict the superiority of domain adaptation and the potentials of weights that are a starting point for training the models.
Evaluation of late‐season nitrogen source application on autumn color and winter injury of ‘Riviera’ bermudagrass in the upper transition zone of the United States
Authors: Goldsby Anthony , Fry Jack , Chhetri Manoj
Published: February 2022

Late summer and autumn application of nitrogen (N) to bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) in the transition zone has been associated with enhanced turfgrass color but has been thought to increase the potential for winter injury. Eleven N sources were applied in late summer and early autumn to provide a total annual N level of 98 kg ha−1 in Olathe, KS to evaluate fall color and spring green coverage of ‘Riviera’ bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.]. Treatments included experimental coated urea fertilizers, N sources containing urease inhibitors, urea, and nontreated turfgrass. Significant winter injury occurred throughout the experimental area. Turfgrass color in late October was positively correlated with green coverage evaluated in May (r = .55; P < .001). For example, bermudagrass treated with AND3.0EX (Poly/Humic Coated Urea) had a color rating of 3.5 (1 to 9 scale; 9 = dark green) in late October, and green coverage in May was 44%. Nontreated turfgrass had a color rating of 1.5 in late October, and green coverage in May was 8%. Enhanced winter survival of bermudagrass following late‐season N application may require that turfgrass managers rethink traditional N programs limiting application to only late spring and midsummer dates in the transition zone.
Application of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Neoadjuvant Treatment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Qu Chao , Zeng Piao‐e , Wang Hang‐yan , Yuan Chun‐hui , Yuan Hui‐shu , Xiu Dian‐rong
Published: February 2022

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest malignant tumors of the human digestive system. Due to its insidious onset, many patients have already lost the opportunity for radical resection upon tumor diagnosis. In recent years, neoadjuvant treatment for patients with borderline resectable PDAC has been recommended by multiple guidelines to increase the resection rate of radical surgery and improve the postoperative survival. However, further developments are required to accurately assess the tumor response to neoadjuvant therapy and to select the population suitable for such treatment. Reductions in drug toxicity and the number of neoadjuvant cycles are also critical. At present, the clinical evaluation of neoadjuvant treatment is mainly based on several serological and imaging indicators; however, the unique characteristics of PDAC and the insufficient sensitivity and specificity of the markers render this system ineffective. The imaging evaluation system, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), has its own unique imaging advantages compared with computed tomography (CT) and other imaging examinations. One key advantage is the ability to reflect the changes more rapidly in tumor tissue components, such as the degree of fibrosis, microvessel density, and tissue hypoxia. It can also perform multiparameter quantitative analysis of tumor tissue and changes, attributing to its increasingly important role in imaging evaluation, and potentially the evaluation of neoadjuvant treatment of pancreatic cancer, as several current articles have studied. At the same time, owing to the complexity of MRI and some of its limitations, its wider application is limited. Compared with CT imaging, few relevant studies have been conducted. In this review article, we will investigate and summarize the advantages, limitations, and future development of MRI in the evaluation of neoadjuvant treatment of PDAC.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Molecular Co‐Assembly of Two Building Blocks Harnesses Both their Attributes into a Functional Supramolecular Hydrogel
Authors: Chakraborty Priyadarshi , Aviv Moran , Netti Francesca , Cohen‐Gerassi Dana , Adler‐Abramovich Lihi
Published: February 2022

Engineering ordered nanostructures through molecular self‐assembly of simple building blocks constitutes the essence of modern nanotechnology to develop functional supramolecular biomaterials. However, the lack of adequate chemical and functional diversity often hinders the utilization of unimolecular self‐assemblies for practical applications. Co‐assembly of two different building blocks can essentially harness both of their attributes and produce nanostructured macro‐scale objects with improved physical properties and desired functional complexity. Herein, the authors report the co‐operative co‐assembly of a modified amino acid, fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl‐pentafluoro‐phenylalanine (Fmoc‐F5‐Phe), and a peptide, Fmoc‐Lys(Fmoc)‐Arg‐Gly‐Asp [Fmoc‐K(Fmoc)‐RGD] into a functional supramolecular hydrogel. A change in the morphology and fluorescence emission, as well as improvement of the mechanical properties in the mixed hydrogels compared to the pristine hydrogels, demonstrate the signature of co‐operative co‐assembly mechanism. Intriguingly, this approach harnesses the advantages of both components in a synergistic way, resulting in a single homogeneous biomaterial possessing the antimicrobial property of Fmoc‐F5‐Phe and the biocompatibility and cell adhesive characteristics of Fmoc‐K(Fmoc)‐RGD. This work exemplifies the importance of the co‐assembly process in nanotechnology and lays the foundation for future developments in supramolecular chemistry by harnessing the advantages of diverse functional building blocks into a mechanically stable functional biomaterial.
Synergistically Improved Oxygen Barrier Properties of Polyethylene Terephthalate by Combining “Active” and “Passive” Barrier Techniques
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Quan Lijun , Tong Zeming , Zhang Penghui , Nian Shifeng , Gong Lei , Li Zhong‐Ming , Zhang Qiuyu , Chen Yanhui , Liu Zhenguo
Published: February 2022

The relatively poor oxygen barrier properties of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) limit its high‐end use in flexible electronic substrates. In this work, the oxygen barrier properties of PET films are highly improved by biaxially stretching PET films containing oxygen scavengers. The “active” oxygen scavengers result in a higher crystallinity of biaxially stretched PET films, improving the “passive” barrier properties. Biaxial stretching processing increases the surface area of oxygen scavengers’ domain, which consumes the oxygen molecules more effectively, thus improving the “active” barrier properties. More importantly, the enhanced “passive” barrier path prolongs the residence time of oxygen molecules in the films, allowing the oxygen scavenges to have enough time to sufficiently react with oxygen molecules. As a result, the oxygen permeability coefficient of biaxially stretching PET films containing oxygen scavengers is as low as 14.5792 cc mil m−2 day−1 0.1 MPa−1, synergistically improved by a factor of 11.99 compared to pristine PET films.
Microbial diversity of garden snail mucus
Authors: Belouhova Mihaela , Daskalova Elmira , Yotinov Ivaylo , Topalova Yana , Velkova Lyudmila , Dolashki Aleksander , Dolashka Pavlina
Published: February 2022

The search for new natural compounds for application in medicine and cosmetics is a trend in biotechnology. One of the sources of such active compounds is the snail mucus. Snail physiology and the biological activity of their fluids (especially the mucus) are still poorly studied. Only a few previous studies explored the relationship between snails and their microbiome. The present study was focused on the biodiversity of the snail mucus used in the creation of cosmetic products, therapeutics, and nutraceuticals. The commonly used cultivation techniques were applied for the determination of the number of major bacterial groups. Fluorescence in situ hybridization for key taxa was performed. The obtained images were subjected to digital image analysis. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene was also done. The results showed that the mucus harbors a rich bacterial community (10.78 × 1010 CFU/ml). Among the dominant bacteria, some are known for their ability to metabolize complex polysaccharides or are usually found in soil and plants (Rhizobiaceae, Shewanella, Pedobacter, Acinetobacter, Alcaligenes). The obtained data demonstrated that the snail mucus creates a unique environment for the development of the microbial community that differs from other parts of the animal and which resulted from the combined contribution of the microbiomes derived from the soil, plants, and the snails.
Weight assigned to a rival's profit by an advantaged firm in relative performance evaluation with Cournot–Bertrand competition
Authors: Hamamura Jumpei
Published: February 2022

This study examines the weight placed on a rival's profit under asymmetric cost and Cournot–Bertrand competition. From our model analysis, when an advantaged firm decides quantity and a disadvantaged firm decides a price, we find the case where each firm set positive weight placed on a rival's profit. Our result suggests that decision variables in a product market are important to consider CEOs' implicit compensation contract in empirical research. In addition, it is interesting to demonstrate the advantaged firm sets positive weight placed on a rival's profit under quantity decision.
Improved accuracy and precision with three‐parameter simultaneous myocardial T1and T2mapping using multiparametric SASHA
Authors: Chow Kelvin , Hayes Genevieve , Flewitt Jacqueline A. , Feuchter Patricia , Lydell Carmen , Howarth Andrew , Pagano Joseph J. , Thompson Richard B. , Kellman Peter , White James A.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To develop and validate a three‐parameter model for improved precision multiparametric SAturation‐recovery single‐SHot Acquisition (mSASHA) cardiac T1and T2mapping with high accuracy in a single breath‐hold.

Methods

The mSASHA acquisition consists of nine images of variable saturation recovery and T2preparation in 11 heartbeats with T1and T2values calculated using a three‐parameter model. It was validated in simulations and phantoms at 3 T with comparison to a four‐parameter joint T1‐T2technique. The mSASHA acquisition was compared with MOLLI, SASHA, and T2‐prepared balanced SSFP in 10 volunteers.

Results

The mSASHA technique had high accuracy in phantoms compared to spin echo, with −0.2 ± 0.3% T1error and −2.4 ± 1.3% T2error. The mSASHA coefficient of variation in phantoms for T1was similar to MOLLI (0.7 ± 0.2% for both) and T2‐prepared balanced SSFP for T2(1.3 ± 0.7% vs 1.4 ± 0.3%, adjustedp> .05 for both). In simulations, three‐parameter mSASHA had higher precision than four‐parameter joint T1‐T2for both T1and T2(46% and 11% reductions in T1and T2interquartile range for native myocardium). In vivo myocardial mSASHA T1was similar to SASHA (1523 ± 18 ms vs 1520 ± 18 ms) with similar coefficient of variation to both MOLLI and SASHA (3.3 ± 0.6% vs 3.1 ± 0.6% and 3.3 ± 0.5% respectively, adjustedp> .05 for all). Myocardial mSASHA T2was 37.1 ± 1.1 ms with similar precision to T2‐prepared balanced SSFP (6.7 ± 1.7% vs 6.0 ± 1.6%, adjustedp> .05).

Conclusion

Three‐parameter mSASHA provides high‐accuracy cardiac T1and T2quantification in a single breath‐hold with similar precision to MOLLI and T2‐prepared balanced SSFP. Further study is required to both establish normative values and demonstrate clinical utility in patient populations.
Hyperstability in Electrofishing Catch Rates of Common Carp and Bigmouth Buffalo
Authors: Simonson Martin A. , Weber Michael J. , McCombs Audrey
Published: February 2022

Electrofishing catch per unit effort (CPUE) can be an effective index of relative abundance when CPUE is proportional to population density. However, the relationship between fish catch rates and density can be variable and not proportional because catchability may not be constant under a range of environmental conditions. Hyperstability occurs when catch rates change faster than population density, whereas hyperdepletion occurs when catch rates change slower than population density. We used capture–mark–recapture methods to estimate density of Common Carp Cyprinus carpio and Bigmouth Buffalo Ictiobus cyprinellus across 24 lake-years. Next, we developed log-linear mixed-effects models to assess the relationship between catch rates and density to predict electrofishing CPUE based on density and environmental covariates. Common Carp and Bigmouth Buffalo electrofishing CPUE exhibited hyperstability; CPUE initially increased faster at low density but reached an asymptote as density continued to increase. Common Carp catch rates increased with water temperature and were negatively associated with season; highest catch rates occurred in the warmest temperatures of spring, whereas the lowest catch rates occurred in the coldest temperatures of fall. Bigmouth Buffalo electrofishing CPUE was negatively related to water temperature but had a quadratic relationship with season; catch rates were highest in the spring and fall when water temperatures were coldest. Secchi depth, shoreline length, and maximum depth did not influence our model predictions in either species. Electrofishing had little power to detect simulated changes in Bigmouth Buffalo density regardless of sampling effort, whereas power to detect changes in Common Carp density increase with population changes and sampling effort. At low population densities for both species, electrofishing CPUE is expected to increase or decrease faster than density and can obscure conclusions about population trajectories but may still be useful for monitoring population fluctuations if hyperstability is accounted for by a correction factor.
A fractional model for anomalous diffusion with increased variability: Analysis, algorithms and applications to interface problems
Authors: D'Elia Marta , Glusa Christian
Published: February 2022

Fractional equations have become the model of choice in several applications where heterogeneities at the microstructure result in anomalous diffusive behavior at the macroscale. In this work we introduce a new fractional operator characterized by a doubly‐variable fractional order and possibly truncated interactions. Under certain conditions on the model parameters and on the regularity of the fractional order we show that the corresponding Poisson problem is well‐posed. We also introduce a finite element discretization and describe an efficient implementation of the finite‐element matrix assembly in the case of piecewise constant fractional order. Through several numerical tests, we illustrate the improved descriptive power of this new operator across media interfaces. Furthermore, we present one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional h‐convergence results that show that the variable‐order model has the same convergence behavior as the constant‐order model.
Amide Moieties Modulate the Antimicrobial Activities of Conjugated Oligoelectrolytes against Gram‐negative Bacteria
Authors: Limwongyut Jakkarin , Moreland Alex S. , Nie Chenyao , Read de Alaniz Javier , Bazan Guillermo C.
Published: February 2022

Cationic conjugated oligoelectrolytes (COEs) are a class of compounds that can be tailored to achieve relevant in vitro antimicrobial properties with relatively low cytotoxicity against mammalian cells. Three distyrylbenzene‐based COEs were designed containing amide functional groups on the side chains. Their properties were compared to two representative COEs with only quaternary ammonium groups. The optimal compound, COE2−3C−C3‐Apropyl, has an antimicrobial efficacy against Escherichia coli with an MIC=2 μg mL−1, even in the presence of human serum albumin low cytotoxicity (IC50=740 μg mL−1) and minimal hemolytic activity. Moreover, we find that amide groups increase interactions between COEs and a bacterial lipid mimic based on calcein leakage assay and allow COEs to readily permeabilize the cytoplasmic membrane of E. coli. These findings suggest that hydrogen bond forming moieties can be further applied in the molecular design of antimicrobial COEs to further improve their selectivity towards bacteria.
Colour, chemical compounds, and antioxidant capacity of Astragali Radix based on untargeted metabolomics and targeted quantification
Authors: Yang Mei , Yin Minzhen , Chu Shanshan , Zhao Yujiao , Fang Qingying , Cheng Ming'en , Peng Huasheng , Huang Luqi
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Astragali Radix has been used for over 2000 years in traditional Chinese medicine. Its secondary xylem “Jinjing” and secondary phloem “Yulan” are important for evaluating the quality of the Daodi medicinal material in China. However, its systematic characterisation has not been conducted.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the colour, chemical compounds, and antioxidant capacity of the secondary xylem and phloem of Astragali Radix on the basis of untargeted metabolomics, broadening the application scope of Astragali Radix in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Methods

The L*, a*, and b* of the secondary xylem and phloem were measured by colorimetry, and the chemical compounds were identified and quantified by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS) and high‐performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detector‐evaporative light scattering detection. 2,2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays were conducted to evaluate their antioxidant capacity.

Results

Thirty‐one compounds were identified by UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS. The secondary xylem exhibited high parameter b*, flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity, while the secondary phloem was rich in astragalosides. The colour parameters of well‐defined type A significantly varied from those of the other types. Well‐defined type A also exhibited the highest antioxidant activity and flavonoid content, followed by middle type A‐like, middle type B‐like, and yellow shading type B.

Conclusion

The colour parameters, chemical compounds, and antioxidant capacity among the different transverse sections of secondary xylem and phloem varied. The yellow colour of secondary xylem was correlated to high flavonoid content and antioxidant activity, and well‐defined type A of Astragali Radix had better quality than other types.
Study on high energy absorption of spontaneous closed cell polyacrylate foam
Authors: Deng Jingqian , Liu Meng , Du Zhongjie , Zhang Chen , Wang Hui , Kong Peng , Zou Wei
Published: February 2022

To solve the problem of poor waterproof and moisture resistance caused by the high open‐cell ratio of polyacrylate foam, a special foam stabilizer (MMA‐g‐SI) for acrylate was synthesized with polyacrylate as the main chain and aminosiloxane as the side chain. MMA‐g‐SI has good foam stability in the process of acrylate foaming, and can significantly reduce the surface tension and further increase the closed‐cell content. When the amount of MMA‐g‐SI was 1.0 wt%, the water absorption of foam decreased from 64.3% to 2.1%. The point impact energy absorption increased from 50% to 72%, and the surface impact energy absorption increased from 28% to 35%. Moreover, with the increase of density, the point impact energy absorption of the foam increased, while the surface impact energy absorption decreased. The special foam stabilizer has a good application prospect in the field of acrylate foaming.