bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Residual risk of hepatitis B virus transmission through blood donations in Burkina Faso screened with rapid diagnostic tests
Authors: Sanou Armel M. , Nikièma Achille S. , Zalla Seimbou , Ouattara Mamadou , Dakouo Nina Pascaline S. , Kiba‐Koumare Alice , Seynou Mariam , Napon‐Zongo Delphine , Sombié Roger
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) represent the major transfusion–transmissible pathogens worldwide. The risk of transmission is relatively high in African countries, mainly due to unreliable screening methods of blood donations. In Burkina Faso, predonation screening using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) is widespread, raising the major question of the transfusion safety in the country. The objective of this study was to assess the risk of transmission of HBV, HCV, and HIV through blood transfusion in the context of the use of RDTs for screening of the blood donations.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, a total of 417 serum samples obtained from blood donors tested negative for HBsAg, anti‐HCV, and anti‐HIV using RDTs were retested for the same markers using chemiluminescent immunologic assays. Total antibodies to HBV core (anti‐HBc) were tested on randomly selected samples. HBV‐DNA and HCV‐RNA viral loads (VLs) were quantified on HBsAg and anti‐HCV positive samples, respectively. To assess possible occult hepatitis B infection (OBI), HBV‐DNA‐VL was quantified on 313 randomly selected HBsAg‐negative samples.

Results

HBsAg and anti‐HCV were found respectively in 6 (6/417; 1.4%) and 11 (11/417; 2.6%) samples. No samples were reactive for anti‐HIV. Total anti‐HBc were detected in 217 out of the 319 randomly selected samples (217/319; 68.02%). HBV‐DNA was detected in four (4/313; 1.27%) samples, including two (2/6; 33.33%) of the six HBsAg positive samples and two (2/313; 0.6%) of the HBsAg‐negative samples, suggesting two cases of occult HBV infection. All anti‐HCV antibody‐positive samples were HCV‐RNA negative.

Conclusion

This study shows that RDTs are not sufficiently sensitive for the screening of blood donations. Our results highlight the urgent need to think about the extension of sensitive immunological tests in all blood transfusion centers and also the implementation of nucleic acid amplification techniques.
COVID‐19‐related stigma and its impact on psychological distress: A cross‐sectional study in Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhou Min
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

Health‐related stigma arises from the perceived association between a person or group of certain characteristics and a specific disease. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has brought about stigma targeted at individuals and groups who are perceived to be connected with the virus. Wuhan of China was not only the locale where the first COVID‐19 cases were detected in the world but was also the hardest hit across China.

Methods

Using new data (N = 1153) from a survey conducted in Wuhan in August 2020, this cross‐sectional study aims to reveal the stigma experienced by residents in Wuhan during the COVID‐19 pandemic and the impact of this experienced stigma on psychological distress, specifically posttraumatic stress disorder.

Results

69.47% (95% confidence interval (CI): 66.81%─72.13%) of the surveyed Wuhan residents have experienced some forms of stigma related to COVID‐19. The average posttraumatic stress disorder score based on the impact of event scale–revised is 20.28 (95% CI: 19.096─21.468) out of 88. In particular, 27.75% (95% CI: 25.17%─30.34%) of the respondents display clinically significant distress symptoms. Moreover, this stigma not only aggravates individuals' posttraumatic stress disorder score by 10.652 (95% CI: 8.163─13.141) but also elevates the chance of developing clinically significant distress symptoms. Specifically, the probability of clinical distress is significantly higher (p < 0.001) among those who have experienced stigma (33.66%) than those who have no such experiences (12.62%).

Conclusion

The public should be aware of the distress‐inducing impact of stigma related to COVID‐19 and prevent it from causing more harm to certain individuals and groups.
Impact of high‐dose vitamin C on the mortality, severity, and duration of hospital stay in COVID‐19 patients: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Bhowmik Khokon Kanti , Barek Md. Abdul , Aziz Md. Abdul , Islam Mohammad Safiqul
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

Vitamin C has been predicted to be effective as an antioxidant in treating various ailments, including viral infections such as pervasive coronavirus disease (COVID‐19). With this meta‐analysis, we looked to ascertain the relationship between high‐dose vitamin C administration and mortality, severity, and length of hospitalization of COVID‐19 patients.

Methods

We collected articles from PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, SAGE, and Cochrane databases between January 1, 2020, and May 30, 2022. Odds ratio (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) and p value were calculated to assess the connection of high‐dose vitamin C in COVID‐19 patients' mortality and severity. The length of hospitalization was calculated and pooled with the mean difference (MD), 95% CI, and p value. Review manager 5.3 was used to carry out this meta‐analysis.

Results

This meta‐analysis included 15 complete studies involving 2125 COVID‐19 patients. Our study demonstrated a significant correlation between vitamin C consumption and death. Vitamin C consumption significantly reduces mortality risk with COVID‐19 patients (OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.42–0.69, p < 0.00001). Furthermore, there was a link between the severity of COVID‐19 and the intake of vitamin C. Patients who consumed vitamin C showed 0.63 times less severity than those who did not take vitamin C (OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.43–0.94, p = 0.02). Patients taking vitamin C spent slightly more time in hospital than those who did not take vitamin C (MD = 0.19, 95% CI = −1.57 to 1.96, p = 0.83).

Conclusions

During COVID‐19, there was a substantial advantage in taking supplementary vitamin C, at least in terms of severity and mortality.
Impaired wound healing is associated with poorer mood and reduced perceived immune fitness during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A retrospective survey
Authors: Balikji Jessica , Kiani Pantea , Hendriksen Pauline A. , Hoogbergen Maarten M. , Garssen Johan , Verster Joris C.
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

The coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic disrupted medical care of patients with chronic wounds, and in combination with other negative effects of lockdown measures, this may have a negative effect on mood and quality of life. Until now, the consequences of the COVID‐19 pandemic and associated lockdowns for individuals with impaired wound healing have not been investigated.

Methods

An online survey was conducted to evaluate perceived immune fitness, mood, and health, both before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

Of the 331 Dutch pharmacy students that completed the survey, N = 42 participants reported slow healing wounds and/or wound infection and were allocated to the impaired wound healing group; the other N = 289 participants served as control group. The survey assessed mood, perceived immune fitness, and health correlates for (a) the year 2019 (the period before the lockdown), (b) the first lockdown period (March 15–May 11, 2020), (c) summer 2020 (no lockdown), and (d) the second lockdown (November 2020–April 2021). The analysis revealed that negative mood effects, reductions in quality of life, and perceived immune fitness during the two lockdowns were significantly more pronounced among individuals that reported impaired wound healing compared to the control group. The effects on mood, perceived immune fitness, and health correlates were most pronounced for the second lockdown period.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic is associated with significantly poorer mood, quality of life, and reduced perceived immune fitness. These effects are significantly more pronounced among individuals with self‐reported impaired wound healing.
Curbing antimicrobial resistance in post‐COVID Africa: Challenges, actions and recommendations
Authors: Shomuyiwa Deborah Oluwaseun , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Manirambona Emery , Suleman Mohamed Hoosen , Rayan Rehab A. , Huang Junjie , Zaw Thaint Nadi , Babatunde Yusuf , Denkyira Salomey Asaah , Musa Shuaibu Saidu
Published: August 2022

Background

Antimicrobial self‐medication and use have significantly increased in the COVID‐19 era—increasing antibiotic consumption and resulting in a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in Africa (AMR). We conducted a narrative review to investigate challenges associated with curbing AMR in a post‐COVID‐19 setting in Africa, suggesting practical measures applicable for policy‐informed implementation.

Method

A narrative review was performed to pinpoint AMR challenges and actions on the African continent. A comprehensive search was conducted in the scientific databases that include PubMed, PubMed Central and Google Scholar using predetermined search terms.

Results

The emergence of the COVID‐19 outbreak has added to the challenges of tackling AMR on the continent, which has jeopardized AMR interventions' hard‐won gains. Identified challenges have been Health systems disruption, Irrational Antimicrobial Use, Weak Antimicrobials Regulatory Ecosystem, Inefficient Population Infection Prevention, and Control Practices, Inadequate access to Health Services and data challenge on AMR surveillance.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic fueled AMR in Africa. There is a need for AMR control post‐COVID, such as measures for ongoing antimicrobial stewardship and good infection control practices. Further, curbing AMR requires rigorous regulatory enforcement and efficient AMR Surveillance. There should be a body to raise AMR awareness among the population. Research, Innovation and Technology could play an essential role supported by capacity building and global partnership.
Evaluation of a technical advisory board for an occupational injury surveillance research project: A qualitative study
Authors: Vaughan Amelia , Bovbjerg Viktor , Doza Solaiman , Kincl Laurel
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

Advisory boards play a key role in guiding and informing research programs, including occupational health surveillance. It is important to evaluate the effectiveness of these advisory boards. This report details the organization of the Risk Information System for Commercial (RISC) Fishing Technical Advisory Board (TAB), the approach taken to evaluate the TAB, and the results of the evaluation. The RISC TAB was formed to provide advice and recommendations to the study team and informed the development and use of the safety surveillance system.

Methods

The evaluation approach was informed by limited previous literature on advisory board assessments. This evaluation was conducted in Year 5 of the 6‐year project. A review of the meeting notes, materials and correspondences, and study progress was conducted internally to document input from the board and associated actions. To obtain member perspectives, we surveyed the TAB and discussed it in a subsequent TAB meeting.

Results

The RISC Fishing TAB members constitute a wide variety of commercial fishing safety stakeholders. The internal analysis identified the main project aspects and 14 of the proposed changes from the TAB that have either been implemented or are in progress in the project. Ten of the 15 TAB members responded indicating a positive experience on board organization and conduct.

Conclusion

Evaluation of advisory boards is an essential part of a research program. A process is outlined in this report to inform future efforts to document measurable ways to inform projects based on advisory board feedback and reflections.
Effects of throughflow on thermosolutal penetrative convection in a fluid layer with variable gravity field
Authors: Y. H. Gangadharaiah , K. Ananda , A. S. Aruna
Published: August 2022

In this study, the start of thermosolutal penetrative convection in a horizontal fluid layer heated and salted from below was investigated analytically and graphically in the presence of throughflow and changeable gravity field effects. The normal mode technique is used to test the system's stability properties. The mathematical expressions for stationary and oscillatory Rayleigh numbers are obtained as a function of the governing parameters. The analysis demonstrates that the vertical throughflow, gravity parameter, and heat source effect all have a considerable influence on the beginning of convective motion in double‐diffusive flow. The impacts of variable gravity, vertical throughflow, and heat source parameters, as well as other physical parameters such as Solutal Rayleigh numbers and Lewis numbers, on stationary and oscillatory convection, are studied and illustrated graphically, and some previously published results are recovered in the limiting cases.
Cross‐dispersion effect on magnetohydrodynamic dissipative Casson fluid flow via curved sheet
Authors: Lakshmi Kuresi Bhagya , Sugunamma Vangala , Tarakaramu Nainaru , Sivakumar Narsu , Sivajothi Ramalingam
Published: August 2022

We examine the heat and mass transfer on magnetohydrodynamic Casson fluid motion via a curved sheet. The fluid flow is assumed to be along a stretched curved sheet. The effects of Soret (“viscous dissipation”) and Dufour (“cross dispersion”) are taken into account. The governing partial differential equations have been transformed into ordinary differential equations by using relevant similarity transformations. These converted equations are solved using a combination of Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg along with the shooting technique algorithm. We find out the various physical parameter behavior of , , and . We found that the (“temperature profile”) enhances while opposite behavior of (“concentration profile”) with enlarge values of and . Also, we get a good agreement with the present results when compared with the previous study.
The synergistic ameliorative activity of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐alpha and gamma agonists, fenofibrate and pioglitazone, on hippocampal neurodegeneration in a rat model of insulin resistance
Authors: Idowu Olumayowa K. , Oluyomi Olushola O. , Faniyan Oluwatomisin O. , Dosumu Olufunke O. , Akinola Oluwole B.
Published: August 2022

Insulin resistance (IR) is a risk factor for metabolic disorders and neurodegeneration. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) agonists have been proven to mitigate the neuronal pathology associated with IR. However, the synergetic efficacy of these agonists is yet to be fully described. Hence, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of PPARα/γ agonists (fenofibrate and pioglitazone) on a high‐fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced hippocampal neurodegeneration. Male Wistar rats (200 ± 25 mg/body weight [BW]) were divided into five groups. The experimental groups were fed on an HFD for 12 weeks coupled with 5 days of an STZ injection (30 mg/kg/BW, i.p) to induce IR. Fenofibrate (FEN; 100 mg/kg/BW, orally), pioglitazone (PIO; 20 mg/kg/BW, orally), and their combination were administered for 2 weeks postinduction. Behavioral tests were conducted, and blood was collected to determine insulin sensitivity after treatment. Animals were killed for assessment of oxidative stress, cellular morphology characterization, and astrocytic evaluation. HFD/STZ‐induced IR increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreased glutathione (GSH) levels. Evidence of cellular alterations and overexpression of astrocytic protein was observed in the hippocampus. By contrast, monotherapy of FEN and PIO increased the GSH level (p < 0.05), decreased the MDA level (p < 0.05), and improved cellular morphology and astrocytic expression. Furthermore, the combined treatment led to improved therapeutic activities compared to monotherapies. In conclusion, FEN and PIO exerted a therapeutic synergistic effect on HFD/STZ‐induced IR in the hippocampus.
Static and dynamic RCA analysis of India and China in world economy
Authors: Ismail Saba , Ahmed Shahid
Published: August 2022

This study is an attempt to examine similarities and differences in the patterns of revealed comparative advantage (RCA) of India and China in the global market at different levels of classification. The study analyses whether RCAs of these economies have undergone any structural shift/change or whether the pattern of specialization in these economies is competitive or complementary in the world market. The study reveals that India holds a comparative advantage in 9 out of 16 product groups of Harmonized System (HS) classification, 41 out of 97 HS chapters at HS 2‐digit level, and 2377 out of 4163 traded commodities at HS 6‐digit level, while China holds a comparative advantage in 6 out of 16 HS product groups, 45 out of 97 HS chapters at HS 2‐digit level, and 2075 out of 4381 traded commodities at HS 6‐digit level in 2018. Major findings suggest that both the countries have been performing well and broadly maintained their comparative advantage, especially since 2000. A comparative analysis of India and China reveals a small structural change in RCA over time in both economies at disaggregated levels. The study highlights that India and China neither have a competitive nor a complementary relationship in the global market. These findings reflect a scope of independent expansion of the economies of both India and China, without hurting mutual interest in the global market. It may be inferred from the results that mutual cooperation will enhance the competitiveness of both economies and contributes to global economic progress.
Association Between Sexual Dysfunction and Dose of Atypical Antipsychotics: Essential to Learn the Basics
Authors: Krishnegowda Scandashree , Udaykumar Padmaja , Yadiyal Aruna
Published: August 2022

There is paucity of data on sexual dysfunction associated with atypical antipsychotics in Indian population. We estimated the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and assessed dose dependency, if any, in patients on monotherapy of atypical antipsychotics. This cross‐sectional study analyzed the data from patients with F20 to F29 (International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision, ICD‐10) receiving monotherapy of risperidone (group 1), olanzapine (group 2), or quetiapine (group 3) for at least 4 weeks. The sexual function of participants was assessed using Arizona sexual experiences (ASEX) scale. Chlorpromazine (CPZ) equivalent dose and doses in terms of dose years were calculated. Kruskal–Wallis test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and Pearson correlation were used for analysis. Of the 154 subjects, 65.58% were males, with 44%, 48%, and 8% receiving risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine, respectively. The mean duration of treatment was 20.9 weeks. Lower ASEX scores were reported with quetiapine. The differences in mean ASEX scores between groups 1 and 2 were statistically significant for sex drive (P = .016), sexual arousal (P = .025), and overall score (P = .037). Sexual dysfunction was more frequent with risperidone (48.5%) than with olanzapine (28.4%) and quetiapine (0%). In group 1, the duration of therapy positively correlated with the mean scores of sexual desire (P = .003) and arousal (P = .033), but this was not the case for group 2 (receiving olanzapine). The mean CPZ equivalent doses were comparable between the groups (P = .064); those receiving <200 mg CPZ dose equivalents showed greater sexual impairment. We conclude that the occurrence of atypical antipsychotic‐induced sexual dysfunction is not dose dependent. Olanzapine has a better safety profile in terms of sexual dysfunction, whereas the data reflecting the experience with quetiapine are insufficient.
Early neurodevelopmental problems and risk for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) in 4‐7‐year‐old children: A Japanese birth cohort study
Authors: Dinkler Lisa , Yasumitsu‐Lovell Kahoko , Eitoku Masamitsu , Fujieda Mikiya , Suganuma Narufumi , Hatakenaka Yuhei , Hadjikhani Nouchine , Bryant‐Waugh Rachel , Råstam Maria , Gillberg Christopher
Published: August 2022

Background

An overrepresentation of neurodevelopmental problems (NDPs) has been observed in individuals with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Previous studies on the association between ARFID and NDPs have been limited by cross‐sectional data from clinical samples of small size. This study aimed to extend previous research by using prospectively collected data in a non‐clinical child cohort. We examined the occurrence of early NDPs in 4–7‐year‐old children with suspected ARFID and how predictive early NDPs are of ARFID.

Methods

Data were collected via parent‐report a sub‐sample of the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS) including 3728 children born 2011–2014 in Kochi prefecture. NDPs were assessed biannually between 0.5 and 3 years of age with the Ages and Stages Questionnaire‐3, at age 2.5 years with the ESSENCE‐Q, and at age 1 and 3 years via parent‐reported clinical diagnoses. ARFID was identified cross‐sectionally (at age 4–7 years) using a newly developed screening tool. Logistic regressions were used to test association of (1) a composite early NDP risk score, (2) specific early NDPs, and (3) neurodevelopmental trajectories over time with ARFID.

Results

Children in the highest risk percentiles of the NDP risk score had roughly three times higher odds of having suspected ARFID; the absolute risk of later ARFID for children above the 90th percentile was 3.1%. Early NDPs (excluding early feeding problems) were more predictive of later ARFID than were early feeding problems. Specific NDPs predictive of ARFID were problems with general development, communication/language, attention/concentration, social interaction, and sleep. Neurodevelopmental trajectories of children with and without suspected ARFID started to divert after age 1 year.

Conclusions

The results mirror the previously observed overrepresentation of NDPs in ARFID populations. In this non‐clinical child cohort, early feeding problems were common and rarely developed into ARFID; however, our findings imply that they should be monitored closely in children with high NDP risk to prevent ARFID.
The Machines Take Over: A Comparison of Various Supervised Learning Approaches for Automated Scoring of Divergent Thinking Tasks
Authors: Buczak Philip , Huang He , Forthmann Boris , Doebler Philipp
Published: August 2022

Traditionally, researchers employ human raters for scoring responses to creative thinking tasks. Apart from the associated costs this approach entails two potential risks. First, human raters can be subjective in their scoring behavior (inter‐rater‐variance). Second, individual raters are prone to inconsistent scoring patterns (intra‐rater‐variance). In light of these issues, we present an approach for automated scoring of Divergent Thinking (DT) Tasks. We implemented a pipeline aiming to generate accurate rating predictions for DT responses using text mining and machine learning methods. Based on two existing data sets from two different laboratories, we constructed several prediction models incorporating features representing meta information of the response or features engineered from the response’s word embeddings that were obtained using pre‐trained GloVe and Word2Vec word vector spaces. Out of these features, word embeddings and features derived from them proved to be particularly effective. Overall, longer responses tended to achieve higher ratings as well as responses that were semantically distant from the stimulus object. In our comparison of three state‐of‐the‐art machine learning algorithms, Random Forest and XGBoost tended to slightly outperform the Support Vector Regression.
Laryngeal Plasmacytosis Responsive to Inhaled Budesonide
Authors: McLennan Steffane , Jeffery Caroline C.
Published: August 2022

Mucous membrane plasmacytosis (MMP) is rare condition characterized by diffuse plasma cell infiltration of upper aero‐digestive tract mucosa. It results in epithelial hyperplasia that has a classic papillary appearance. We describe a case of MMP primarily affect laryngeal and oropharyngeal mucosa resulting in progressive airway obstruction. We highlight airway management and histopathology. The patient had near complete clinical response with inhaled budesonide, which has not yet been described as a treatment option in the literature. Laryngoscope, 133:70–72, 2023
Stable High‐Dimensional Weak‐Light Soliton Molecules and Their Active Control
Authors: Qin Lu , Hang Chao , Malomed Boris A. , Huang Guoxiang
Published: August 2022

Bound states of solitons, alias soliton molecules (SMs), are well known in 1D systems, while making stable bound states of multidimensional solitons is a challenging problem because of the underlying instabilities. Here, a scheme for the creation of stable (2+1)D and (3+1)D optical SMs in a gas of cold Rydberg atoms is proposed, in which electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) is induced by a control laser field. It is shown that, through the interplay of the EIT and the strong long‐range interaction between the Rydberg atoms, the system gives rise to giant nonlocal Kerr nonlinearity, which in turn supports stable (2+1)D spatial optical SMs, as well as ring‐shaped soliton necklaces, including rotating ones. They feature a large size, low generation power, and can be efficiently manipulated by tuning the nonlocality degree of the Kerr nonlinearity. Stable (3+1)D spatiotemporal optical SMs, composed of fundamental or vortex solitons, with low power and ultraslow propagation velocity, can also be generated in the system. These SMs can be stored and retrieved through the switching off and on of the control laser field. The findings reported here suggest applications to data processing and transmission in optical systems.
Strategical Deep Learning for Photonic Bound States in the Continuum
Authors: Ma Xuezhi , Ma Yuan , Cunha Preston , Liu Qiushi , Kudtarkar Kaushik , Xu Da , Wang Jiafei , Chen Yixin , Wong Zi Jing , Liu Ming , Hipwell M. Cynthia , Lan Shoufeng
Published: August 2022

Resonance is instrumental in modern optics and photonics. While one can use numerical simulations to sweep geometric and material parameters of optical structures, these simulations usually require considerably long calculation time and substantial computational resources. Such requirements significantly limit their applicability in the inverse design of structures with desired resonances. The recent introduction of artificial intelligence allows for faster spectra predictions of resonance. However, even with relatively large training datasets, current end‐to‐end deep learning approaches generally fail to predict resonances with high‐quality‐factors (Q‐factor) due to their intrinsic non‐linearity and complexity. Here, a resonance informed deep learning (RIDL) strategy for rapid and accurate prediction of the optical response for ultra‐high‐Q‐factor resonances is introduced. By incorporating the resonance information into the deep learning algorithm, the RIDL strategy achieves a high‐accuracy prediction of reflection spectra and photonic band structures while using a comparatively small training dataset. Further, the RIDL strategy to develop an inverse design algorithm for designing a bound state in the continuum (BIC) with infinite Q‐factor is applied. The predicted and measured angle‐resolved band structures of this device show minimal differences. The RIDL strategy is expected to be applied to many other physical phenomena such as Gaussian and Lorentzian resonances.
Plasmonic and Photonic Enhancement of Chiral Near‐Fields
Authors: Hu Li , Sun Zhiguang , Nie Yingdong , Huang Yingzhou , Fang Yurui
Published: August 2022

A chiral near‐field with a highly contorted electromagnetic field builds a bridge to match chiral molecules and light wavelengths with large size differences. It significantly enhances the circular dichroism of chiral molecules and has great prospects in chirality sensing, detection, trapping, and other chirality‐related applications. Surface plasmons feature outstanding light‐trapping and electromagnetic‐field‐concentrating abilities. Plasmonic chiral nanostructures facilitate light manipulation to generate superchiral near‐fields. Meanwhile, the nanophotonic structures have attracted significant interest to obtain strong chiral near‐fields due to their unique electromagnetic resonant properties. During the interaction of light and chiral materials, the chiral near‐field not only bridges the light and chiral molecules but is also responsible for the optical activities. This paper reviews state‐of‐the‐art studies on generating or enhancing chiral near‐fields using plasmonic and photonic nanostructures. The principle of chiral near‐fields and the development of chiral near‐fields with plasmonic and photonic nanostructures are reviewed. The properties and applications of enhanced chiral near‐fields for chiral molecule detection, spin‐orbit angular interaction, and the generation of the chiral optical force are examined. Finally, current challenges are discussed and a brief outlook of this field is provided.
Stress Sensing by Ratiometric Mechanoluminescence: A Strategy Based on Structural Probe
Authors: Yang Xiuxia , Cheng Yao , Xu Ju , Lin Hang , Wang Yuansheng
Published: August 2022

Featured with specific relationship between luminescence intensity and stress, mechanoluminescence (ML) has shown great application potential in stress sensing. However, the uncertainty in acquisition of absolute ML intensity may cause significant error in ML‐intensity‐based stress sensing. A ratiometric ML scheme has been recently proposed as an alternative solution to circumvent such problem. In this paper, a novel strategy based on a lanthanide structural probe is demonstrated to realize the ratiometric ML for stress sensing, where the stress‐induced change in local site symmetry leads to the establishment of the relationship between the ML asymmetry ratio of the structural probe and the applied stress. This strategy offers a brand‐new design solution toward ratiometric ML aiming at improving the reliability of stress sensing.
Artificial intelligence in marketing: A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Mehta Pooja , Jebarajakirthy Charles , Maseeh Haroon Iqbal , Anubha Anubha , Saha Raiswa , Dhanda Komal
Published: August 2022

This study synthesizes the artificial intelligence literature into a Meta‐analytic framework based on the theory of reasoned action and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2, and examines concrete relationships between the constructs of this framework. This meta‐review also performed a moderation analysis to investigate the possible reasons for inconsistent findings across studies. The findings suggest that three methodological moderators (sample type, gender dominance, and publication type), and one contextual moderator (level of country's technology advancement) lead to inconsistencies in the relationships between study constructs. Academically, this review synthesizes the artificial intelligence literature and resolves inconsistencies in the literature and also adds constructs to both theory of reasoned action and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2. Practically, this meta‐analysis offers multiple implications for businesses interested in enhancing customer adoption of artificial intelligence. Especially, companies can increase customers' adoption of artificial intelligence by making it more user‐friendly, and advantageous and by adding pleasing features to it.
Bacteriocin‐phage interaction (BaPI): Phage predation of Lactococcus in the presence of bacteriocins
Authors: Rendueles Claudia , Escobedo Susana , Rodríguez Ana , Martínez Beatriz
Published: August 2022

Bacteriophages infecting dairy starter bacteria are a leading cause of milk fermentation failure and strategies to reduce the risk of phage infection in dairy settings are demanded. Along with dairy starters, bacteriocin producers (protective cultures) or the direct addition of bacteriocins as biopreservatives may be applied in food to extend shelf‐life. In this work, we have studied the progress of infection of Lactococcus cremoris MG1363 by the phage sk1, in the presence of three bacteriocins with different modes of action: nisin, lactococcin A (LcnA), and lactococcin 972 (Lcn972). We aimed to reveal putative bacteriocin‐phage interactions (BaPI) that could be detrimental and increase the risk of fermentation failure due to phages. Based on infections in broth and solid media, a synergistic effect was observed with Lcn972. This positive sk1‐Lcn972 interaction could be correlated with an increased burst size. sk1‐Lcn972 BaPI occurred independently of a functional SOS and cell envelope stress response but was lost in the absence of the major autolysin AcmA. Furthermore, BaPI was not exclusive to the sk1‐Lcn972 pairing and could be observed with other phages and lactococcal strains. Therefore, bacteriocins may facilitate phage predation of dairy lactococci and their use should be carefully evaluated.
Free extended anterolateral thigh myocutaneous flap versus combined pedicled pectoralis major–latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps in deep and extensive sternal wound reconstruction
Authors: Wee Shyun‐Jing , Hsu Shao‐Yun , Shih Pin‐Keng , Chen Jian‐Xun , Chang Chang‐Cheng
Published: August 2022

Background

The combined pedicled pectoralis major‐latissimus dorsi (PM–LD) and free extended anterolateral thigh (ALT) myocutaneous flaps provide well‐vascularized tissues for extensive sternal wound reconstruction. However, the outcomes and postoperative complications between the two surgical techniques are different. Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of these two reconstructive options.

Methods

This single‐center, retrospective study was conducted between August 2011 and May 2019. Forty‐four patients diagnosed with deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) and presented with grade four complications (sternal instability and necrotic bone tissue) were enrolled. Two reconstructive strategies, namely, combined pedicled PM–LD (n = 24) and free extended ALT (n = 20) myocutaneous flaps, were used according to the patients' hemodynamics. Data including age, gender, body mass index (BMI), hospital stay, follow‐up, defect/flap size, number of surgical procedures before reconstruction, duration from the last debridement to flap coverage, comorbidities, and postoperative complications, were obtained for statistical analysis.

Results

The mean defect size in the combined PM–LD myocutaneous flap group was 188.4 (5*17–10*23) cm2, and the mean flap size was 150.0 (8*12–15*15) cm2 and 205.0 (8*15–10*25) cm2 in PM and LD flap, respectively. The mean defect size in the free extended ALT myocutaneus flap group was 202.5 (6*16–10*21) cm2, and the mean flap size was 285.2 (9*30–12*25) cm2. No significant differences were observed between the free extended ALT and the combined pedicled PM–LD myocutaneous flaps in relation to age, gender, BMI, hospital days, follow‐up, defect size, preoperative procedures, and comorbidities, except for the average operative time (443.2 ± 31.2 vs. 321.3 ± 54.3 mins, p = .048). The combined pedicled PM–LD myocutaneous flap had significantly more donor site complications, including seroma (21% vs. 0%, p = .030), bilateral nipple–areolar complex asymmetry (100% vs. 0%, p < .0001), and skin graft loss with infection (33% vs. 0%; p = .044) than the free extended ALT myocutaneous flap.

Conclusion

The free extended ALT and the combined pedicled PM–LD myocutaneous flaps were both feasible and effective options for sternal wound reconstruction. Our findings suggested that the free extended ALT myocutaneous flap may be a better alternative for a comprehensive and extensive reconstruction of sternal wounds. Further studies based on these findings can be conducted.
Some traveling wave solutions to the generalized (3 + 1)‐dimensional Korteweg–de Vries–Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation in plasma physics
Authors: Tariq Kalim U. , Javed Rizwan
Published: August 2022

The generalized Korteweg–de Vries–Zakharov–Kuznetsov model is one of the dominant nonlinear complex structures to exhibit the influence of magnetic fields on weak ion‐acoustic waves in plasma made up of cool and hot electrons. In this study, the nonlinear higher dimensional model is subjected to the extended
‐expansion approach and the
‐expansion strategy in order to discover some novel traveling waves solutions and other exact solutions. There have been several solutions discovered, such as bright, dark, periodic, bell‐shaped, and single bell‐shaped wave structures. Furthermore, the stability analysis of the model is also reported along with the dynamical visualization of the charismatic behavior of various solitons with the aid of 3D, 2D, and contour plots. The proposed techniques can also be implemented to analyze a wide range of nonlinear evolution models emerging in diverse disciplines of science and technology including mathematical physics and plasma physics.
Global existence and temporal decay of large solutions for the Poisson–Nernst–Planck equations in low regularity spaces
Authors: Zhao Jihong , Liu Xilan
Published: August 2022

We are concerned with the global existence and decay rates of large solutions for the Poisson–Nernst–Planck equations. Based on careful observation of algebraic structure of the equations and using the weighted Chemin–Lerner‐type norm, we obtain the global existence and optimal decay rates of large solutions without requiring the summation of initial densities of a negatively and positively charged species that is small enough. Moreover, the large solution is obtained for initial densities belonging to the low regularity Besov spaces with different regularity and integral indices, which indicates more specific coupling relations between the difference and the summation of negatively and positively charged densities.
Miniaturized square fractal ring patch unit cell for active reflective metasurface in C‐ and X‐bands
Authors: Kim Yongjune , Lee Sun‐Gyu , Kim Jongyeong , Lee Jeong‐Hae
Published: August 2022

A miniaturized dual‐band reflective metasurface unit cell is presented based on a square fractal copper‐ring patch combined with a PIN diode. Its structure is optimally designed via the genetic algorithm to achieve phase differences of the reflection coefficients between on and off states of the PIN diode at both C‐ and X‐bands center frequencies. The accuracy of the proposed dual‐band metasurface unit cell is verified by comparing simulations with measurements inside the C‐ and X‐bands rectangular waveguides. The proposed miniaturized metasurface unit cell could improve the radiation efficiency of the dual‐band reflective metasurface antenna by enabling fine quantization of the phase distribution and mitigating the mutual couplings among different states of the unit cells.
Rational design for high bioorthogonal fluorogenicity of tetrazine‐encoded green fluorescent proteins
Authors: Tang Longteng , Bednar Riley M. , Rozanov Nikita D. , Hemshorn Marcus L. , Mehl Ryan A. , Fang Chong
Published: August 2022

The development of bioorthogonal fluorogenic probes constitutes a vital force to advance life sciences. Tetrazine‐encoded green fluorescent proteins (GFPs) show high bioorthogonal reaction rate and genetic encodability but suffer from low fluorogenicity. Here, we unveil the real‐time fluorescence mechanisms by investigating two site‐specific tetrazine‐modified superfolder GFPs via ultrafast spectroscopy and theoretical calculations. Förster resonance energy transfer is quantitatively modeled and revealed to govern the fluorescence quenching; for GFP150‐Tet with a fluorescence turn‐on ratio of ∼9, it contains trimodal subpopulations with good (P1), random (P2), and poor (P3) alignments between the transition dipole moments of protein chromophore (donor) and tetrazine tag (Tet‐v2.0, acceptor). By rationally designing a more free/tight environment, we created new mutants Y200A/S202Y to introduce more P2/P1 populations and improve the turn‐on ratios to ∼14/31, making the fluorogenicity of GFP150‐Tet‐S202Y the highest among all up‐to‐date tetrazine‐encoded GFPs. In live eukaryotic cells, the GFP150‐Tet‐v3.0‐S202Y mutant demonstrates notably increased fluorogenicity, substantiating our generalizable design strategy.

Key points

Ultrafast spectroscopy reveals FRET in action and inhomogeneous populations with different transition dipole moment alignments.

Rational protein design of two new superfolder GFP mutants with record‐high fluorogenicity.

Bioimaging application of the designed bioorthogonal protein mutant in live eukaryotic cells.
The preparation of rigid hybrid silicone resins by combining carbon nanomaterial loading nanoparticles
Authors: Guan Shengjie , Wu Fan , Wu Qian , He Zhichao , Jiang Jing , Huang Yudong , Liu Li
Published: August 2022

A series of carbon nanotubes and graphene loading nanoparticles (Mo, Ru, and Pt) were synthesized by the ethylene glycol reduction, in addition, the nanomaterials went through the silanization process by (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane in order to obtain the perfect consistency and dispersibility. The characterization results were then exhibited by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy tests. Furthermore, the nanomaterials modified silicone resins were obtained by combining methyl phenyl silicone resins, nanocarbon material and HOOBt. The differential scanning calorimetry, sol–gel time and thermogravimetric analysis tests showed the preferable improvement of heat‐resistant quality. Then the silicone resin matrix composites were manufactured by molding process and went through a thermal decomposition process. The ILSS, bending strength and modulus results showed that the hybrid modified silicone resin composites had the leading trend (361.4 MPa, 190.3 MPa, 13.5 GPa, etc.) at all temperature stages. This experimental scheme of carbon nanomaterial loading nanoparticles and hybrid modified silicone resins would have a competitive advantage in exotic material field.
Experimental analysis with grey relational analysis–analytic hierarchy process‐based hybrid optimization to analyze the effect of graphene nanoparticle reinforced ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene/n‐HAp for hip joint
Authors: Singh Ranjeet Kumar , Gangwar Swati , Singh Dhirendra Kumar
Published: August 2022

Ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is utilized in hip joints because of its high impact strength, outstanding fracture resistance, near‐zero moisture absorption, superior chemical inertness, and lower coefficient of friction than other polymers. However, because of the high melt viscosity of UHMWPE, the melt state approach gives unsatisfactory mechanical strength results. In this research, composite materials are fabricated by heat‐assisted compression molding having graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) used as a filler material in a composition of (UHMWPE + 5 wt% hydroxyapatite nanoparticles) at three different wt% ages (i.e., 0, 1, 2, and 3 wt%). Here mechanical characteristics such as flexural, compression, and impact strength measurements according to ISO standards and SEM analysis are used to determine the aggregation of n‐HAp and GNP in UHMWPE. According to the authors' experimental results, biocomposite (with UHMWPE + 5 wt n‐HAp + 1 wt% GNP) has the lowest surface roughness value and excellent mechanical characterization compared to other compositions for hip joint. Flexural and compression strength improve by 25% and 40%, respectively, compared to pure UHMWPE. The multi‐objective optimization based on GRA‐AHP gives a better result at 5 wt% of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and 1 wt% graphene nanoparticle reinforced in UHMWPE compared to other alternative materials.
Two‐dimensional chromatography in screening of bioactive components from natural products
Authors: Xiang Haiping , Xu Ping , Qiu Huiyun , Wen Weiyi , Zhang Ailian , Tong Shengqiang
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Screening and analysis of bioactive components from natural products is a fundamental part of new drug development and innovation. Two‐dimensional (2D) chromatography has been demonstrated to be an effective method for screening and preparation of specific bioactive components from complex natural products.

Objective

To collect details of application of 2D chromatography in screening of natural product bioactive components and to outline the research progress of different separation mechanisms and strategies.

Methodology

Three screening strategies based on 2D chromatography are reviewed, including traditional separation‐based screening, bioactivity‐guided screening and affinity chromatography‐based screening. Meanwhile, in order to cover these aspects, selections of different separation mechanisms and modes are also presented.

Results

Compared with traditional one‐dimensional (1D) chromatography, 2D chromatography has unique advantages in terms of peak capacity and resolution, and it is more effective for screening and identifying bioactive components of complex natural products.

Conclusion

Screening of natural bioactive components using 2D chromatography helps separation and analysis of complex samples with greater targeting and relevance, which is very important for development of innovative drug leads.
PALE‐GREEN LEAF 1, a rice cpSRP54 protein, is essential for the assembly of the PSI‐LHCI supercomplex
Authors: Gao Peng , Xia Haoqiang , Li Qiang , Li Zongzhu , Zhai Chun , Weng Lin , Mi Hualing , Yan Song , Datla Raju , Wang Hua , Yang Jun
Published: August 2022

Although photosynthetic multiprotein complexes have received major attention, our knowledge about the assembly of these proteins into functional complexes in plants is still limited. In the present study, we have identified a chlorophyll‐deficient mutant, pale‐green leaf 1 (pgl1), in rice that displays abnormally developed chloroplasts. Map‐based cloning of this gene revealed that OsPGL1 encodes a chloroplast targeted protein homologous to the 54‐kDa subunit of the signal recognition particle (cpSRP54). Immunoblot analysis revealed that the accumulation of the PSI core proteins PsaA and PsaB, subunits from the ATP synthase, cytochrome, and light‐harvesting complex (LHC) is dramatically reduced in pgl1. Blue native gel analysis of thylakoid membrane proteins showed the existence of an extra band in the pgl1 mutant, which located between the dimeric PSII/PSI‐LHCI and the monomeric PSII. Immunodetection after 2D separation indicated that the extra band consists of the proteins from the PSI core complex. Measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence at 77 K further confirmed that PSI, rather than PSII, was primarily impaired in the pgl1 mutant. These results suggest that OsPGL1 might act as a molecular chaperone that is required for the efficient assembly and specific integration of the peripheral LHCI proteins into the PSI core complex in rice.
Degradation analysis with nonlinear exponential‐dispersion process: Bayesian offline and online perspectives
Authors: Ding Yi , Zhu Rong , Peng Weiwen , Xie Min
Published: August 2022

Exponential‐dispersion (ED) process has been recently introduced and demonstrated as a promising degradation model, which can include classical Wiener, gamma, and inverse Gaussian (IG) processes as special cases. However, most related studies are based on offline and point estimation methods, which limit their capability for uncertainty quantification and online update inference. In this paper, nonlinear ED process models equipped with Bayesian offline and online inference methods are presented. Tweedie ED process models are studied for degradation analysis with accelerated factors and unit‐to‐unit variability. Bayesian offline method based on NO‐U‐Turn sampler (NUTS) algorithm and Bayesian online method based on particle filter are developed, respectively. The offline method is presented to enhance the ED process based degradation analysis with uncertainty quantification. The online method is developed for the applications with limited storage and computing resources, for which degradation observations are analyzed on‐the‐fly with improved efficiency. Effectiveness and characteristics of the proposed methods are demonstrated through a simulation study and two case studies.