bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foam‐mat dried modified aloe polysaccharide powder: Optimization and physiochemical characterization
Authors: Roy Tapas , Alam Mohammed Shafiq
Published: April 2023

The modified aloe polysaccharide (MAP) juice developed under optimized condition was investigated to assess the effect of foaming process parameters and its optimization followed by evaluating the best drying conditions for developing MAP powder from foamed and non‐foamed MAP juice. The foaming process parameters selected for optimizing the condition for MAP juice were soy protein isolate (SPI%), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC%), and whipping time (WT) with variation in experimental range of 3–7%, 0.1–0.5%, and 1–5 min, respectively. The optimal foaming conditions obtained for MAP juice were 6.905% SPI, 0.412% CMC, and 4.861 WT with a desirability of 0.885. The optimized foamed MAP juice were dried at varying temperature (50, 60, and 70°C) and different foam thickness (FT; 1, 3, and 5 mm) to compare with nonfoamed fresh aloe powder developed under the same drying condition. The developed foamed MAP powder dried at 60°C drying temperature and 3 mm FT retained significantly higher functional attributes than nonfoamed aloe powder. The yield, bulk density, colour change and polysaccharide content of the foamed MAP powder were higher significant effect, whereas TSS, solubility, firmness, flowability and overall acceptability were non‐significant differences to nonfoamed powder.
Factors influencing left ventricular thrombus resolution and its significance on clinical outcomes
Authors: Kim Se‐Eun , Lee Chan Joo , Oh Jaewon , Kang Seok‐Min
Published: April 2023

Aims

A left ventricular thrombus (LVT) is not uncommon in patients with impaired LV systolic function. However, the treatment strategy for LVT has not yet been fully established. We aimed to identify the factors influencing LVT resolution and the significance of LVT resolution on clinical outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated patients diagnosed with LVT with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 50% on transthoracic echocardiography from January 2010 to July 2021 in a single tertiary centre. LVT resolution was monitored through serial follow‐up transthoracic echocardiography. The primary clinical outcome was a composite of all‐cause death, stroke, transient ischaemic attack, and arterial thromboembolic events. LVT recurrence was also evaluated in patients with LVT resolution.

Results

There were 212 patients diagnosed with LVT (mean age, 60.5 ± 14.0 years; male, 82.5%). The mean LVEF was 33.1 ± 10.9%, and 71.7% of patients were diagnosed with ischaemic cardiomyopathy. Most patients were treated with vitamin K antagonists (86.7%), and 28 patients (13.2%) were treated with direct oral anticoagulants or low molecular weight heparin. LVT resolution was observed in 179 patients (84.4%). LVEF improvement failure within 6 months was a significant factor hindering LVT resolution (hazard ratio, HR: 0.52, 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.31–0.85, P = 0.010). During a median 4.0 years of follow‐up (interquartile range, IQR: 1.9 to 7.3 years), 32 patients (15.1%) experienced primary outcomes (18 all‐cause deaths, 15 strokes, and 3 arterial thromboembolisms) and 20 patients (11.2%) experienced LVT recurrence after LVT resolution. LVT resolution was independently associated with a lower risk for primary outcomes (HR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.21–0.98, P = 0.045). In the patients with resolved LVT, discontinuation or duration of anticoagulation after resolution were not significant predictors for LVT recurrence, but LVEF improvement failure at LVT resolution was associated with a significantly higher risk of LVT recurrence (HR: 3.10, 95% CI: 1.23–7.78, P = 0.016).

Conclusions

This study suggests that LVT resolution is an important predictor for favourable clinical outcomes. LVEF improvement failure interfered with LVT resolution and appeared to be a crucial factor for LVT recurrence. After LVT resolution, continuation of anticoagulation did not seem to impact LVT recurrence and the prognosis.
A review of artificial intelligence quality in forecasting asset prices
Authors: Barboza Flavio , Nunes Silva Geraldo , Augusto Fiorucci José
Published: April 2023

Researchers and practitioners globally, from a range of perspectives, acknowledge the difficulty in determining the value of a financial asset. This subject is of utmost importance due to the numerous participants involved and its impact on enhancing market structure, function, and efficiency. This paper conducts a comprehensive review of the academic literature to provide insights into the reasoning behind certain conventions adopted in financial value estimation, including the implementation of preprocessing techniques, the selection of relevant inputs, and the assessment of the performance of computational models in predicting asset prices over time. Our analysis, based on 109 studies sourced from 10 databases, reveals that daily forecasts have achieved average error rates of less than 1.5%, while monthly data only attain this level in optimal circumstances. We also discuss the utilization of tools and the integration of hybrid models. Finally, we highlight compelling gaps in the literature that provide avenues for further research.
Early swallowing intervention after free flap reconstruction for oral cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu Jiaqi , Zhu Yongkang , Wu Hongyun , Yang Chengfengyi , Zhang Jing , Yang Yue
Published: April 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to summarize the state of current literature and evaluate evidence for timing, methods, and effects of early intervention in patients after free flap reconstruction.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in nine databases. The methodological quality of literature was assessed according to the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools.

Results

Eight studies were finally included. Most studies started the intervention within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery with multiple swallowing training measures. The results of meta‐analysis showed that swallowing intervention could improve swallowing function (SMD = −1.03, 95%CI [−1.37, −0.69], Z = 5.95, p < 0.01) and the quality of life (SMD = 1.52, 95%CI [0.97, 2.07], Z = 5.43, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Early swallowing intervention can improve patients' swallowing function and short‐term quality of life. We can only summarize the basic consensus of the studies on early swallowing intervention, and rigorous trials are needed in the future.
Science and Arts, Philosophy and Science: Why after All? Why Not?
Authors: Quack Martin
Published: April 2023

This perspective summarizes some interdisciplinary aspects of science and the relation to philosophy, also including the basic motivations and aims as they might be discussed with young scientists starting their careers and presented also in the form of a commencement speech. The contents of this speech were repeatedly discussed also with Jack Dunitz, who showed great interest in it, given his broad interests. The speech also referred to an earlier commencement speech by Jack Dunitz in 1989. In the introduction of our essay, we mention the early common history of science and humanities under the name of philosophy. This early history can be traced back to ancient Greek philosophy and the ‘academy’ of Platon in Athens with a history of more than 1000 years until closure in 529 AD, in modern times revived as the National Greek Academy in Athens in the 19th and 20th centuries. Other ‘academies’ in Europe started in the 17th century and had publications under various names involving ‘philosophy’ with a focus on what we call science (natural science) today. After about 1800 there was increasing fragmentation of the various fields of knowledge and philosophy was considered to be part of the modern ‘humanities’ quite separate from science, and the natural sciences were fragmented into physics, chemistry, biology etc., and even finer subdivisions. The essay also describes an effort at ETH Zurich, reintegrating the various subfields of science and also stressing an education of scientists and engineers in the humanities. The essay concludes with a discussion of several global risks for mankind and a scientific imperative to maintain life on Earth.

The common aspects and the foundations of all sciences as fields of knowledge aiming for an understanding of the world around us and of human beings as part of it are discussed from various perspectives.
Prevalence of diabetes and its correlates among Iranian adults: Results of the first phase of Shahedieh cohort study
Authors: Dehghani Ali , Korozhdehi Hamid , Hossein Khalilzadeh Saeid , Fallahzadeh Hossein , Rahmanian Vahid
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

The diabetes is one of the most common noncommunicable diseases, the prevalence of which is increasing worldwide. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, and correlates the factors of diabetes in the setting of Shahedieh cohort study in Yazd, Iran.

Method

The present study is a cross‐sectional study conducted on the data of the initial stage of Shahdieh Yazd cohort. This study examined the data of 9747 participants aged from 30 to 73 years. The data included demographic, clinical, and blood test variables. Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (OR), and the risk factors of diabetes were studied. Meanwhile, population attributable risks for diabetes were estimated, and reported.

Results

The prevalence of diabetes was 17.9% (CI95%: 17.1–18.9); 20.5% in women, and 15.4% in men. Based on the results of multivariable logistic regression showed female sex (OR = 1.4, CI95%: 1.24–1.58), waist‐hip ratio (OR = 1.4, CI95%: 1.24–1.58), high blood pressure (OR = 2.1, CI95%: 1.84–2.4), cardiovascular diseases (CVD) (OR = 1.52, CI95%: 1.28–1.82), stroke (OR = 1.91, CI95%: 1.24–2.94), age (OR = 1.81, CI95%: 1.67–1.96), hypercholesterolemia (OR = 1.79, CI95% triglyceride: 1.59–2.02), and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) (OR = 1.45, CI95%: 1.4–1.51), as risk factors for diabetes. Among the modifiable risk factors, high blood pressure(52.38%), waist‐to‐hip ratio (48.19%), the history of stroke (47.64%), hypercholesterolemia (44.13%), history of CVD (34.21%), and LDL ≥ 130 (31.03%) had the greatest population‐attributable, respectively.

Conclusion

The results showed that some of the main determinants of diabetes are the modifiable risk factors. Therefore, implementing early detection, and screening programs for people at risk and preventive measures, such as lifestyle modification programs, and control of risk factors can prevent this disease.
The efficacy of alpha‐lipoic acid in the management of burning mouth syndrome: An updated systematic review of randomized controlled clinical trials
Authors: Banik Sujan , Ghosh Antara , Sato Hideyuki , Onoue Satomi
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) causes burning or uncomfortable feelings in the oral cavity without any obvious injuries. This condition's etiopathogenesis is still unknown, consequently, BMS management is very challenging. Alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring potent bioactive compound that has been found to be useful in the management of BMS in many studies. Therefore, we conducted a comprehensive systematic review to investigate the usefulness of ALA in the management of BMS based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

Different electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, were extensively searched to find relevant studies.

Results

This study included nine RCTs that matched the inclusion criteria. In most studies, ALA was given at a dose of 600–800 mg/day, with up to two months of follow‐up. The majority of studies (six out of nine studies) indicated that ALA was more effective in BMS patients than in the placebo‐controlled group.

Conclusions

This comprehensive systematic review provides evidence of the positive outcomes of the treatment of BMS with ALA. However, more research might be needed before ALA can be considered the first‐line therapy for BMS.
Chinese cross‐border insolvency laws: Recent developments and international implications
Authors: Guo Shuai , Su Jieche
Published: April 2023

The present Chinese insolvency law is under the process of legislative reform, and one focus point among legislators and academics is cross‐border issues. China is slowly opening up its market to foreign insolvency proceedings, as demonstrated by the 2021 Chinese Mainland‐Hong Kong cross‐border insolvency cooperation mechanism. This first attempt, however, is only available in three trial cities in the Mainland and does not apply to jurisdictions other than Hong Kong. Nevertheless, it does not undermine the intention of the Mainland to advance its cross‐border insolvency framework. Based on a thorough examination of Chinese legislation and judicial practices, this article submits that China would be willing to accept international standards and be a more active player in international insolvencies.
LncRNA SNHG14/miR‐497a‐5p/BACE1 axis modulates obesity‐induced adipocyte inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Han YuBo , Tian Miao , Wang RuiNan , Guo DongHao , Zhang DanDan , Liu Li
Published: April 2023

Obesity is a metabolic disease with excess weight. LncRNA SNHG14 is abnormally expressed in numerous diseases. This research aimed to enucleate the lncRNA SNHG14 role in obesity. Adipocytes were treated with free fatty acid (FFA) to establish an in vitro model for obesity. Mice were fed a high‐fat diet to construct an in vivo model. Gene levels were determined using quantitative real‐time PCR (RT‐PCR). The protein level was checked by western blot. The lncRNA SNHG14 role in obesity was assessed using western blot and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The mechanism was estimated by Starbase, dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay, and RNA pull‐down. LncRNA SNHG14 function in obesity was estimated using mouse xenograft models, RT‐PCR, western blot, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. LncRNA SNHG14 and BACE1 levels were increased, but the miR‐497a‐5p level was decreased in FFA‐induced adipocytes. Interference with lncRNA SNHG14 reduced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress‐related molecules GRP78 and CHOP expressions in FFA‐induced adipocytes, and decreased IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α expressions, indicating that lncRNA SNHG14 knockdown mitigated FFA‐induced ER stress and inflammation in adipocytes. Mechanistically, lncRNA SNHG14 combined with miR‐497a‐5p, and miR‐497a‐5p targeted BACE1. Meanwhile, lncRNA SNHG14 knockdown reduced levels of GRP78, CHOP, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α, while cotransfection with anti‐miR‐497a‐5p or pcDNA‐BACE1 abolished these trends. Rescue assays illustrated that lncRNA SNHG14 knockdown relieved FFA‐induced adipocyte ER stress and inflammation through miR‐497a‐5p/BACE1. Meanwhile, lncRNA SNHG14 knockdown restrained adipose inflammation and ER stress caused by obesity in vivo. LncRNA SNHG14 mediated obesity‐induced adipose inflammation and ER stress through miR‐497a‐5p/BACE1.
Effects of a high‐fat diet on rat epididymis
Authors: Falvo Sara , Latino Debora , Santillo Alessandra , Chieffi Baccari Gabriella , Senese Rosalba , Nuzzolillo Francesca , Di Fiore Maria Maddalena
Published: April 2023

The epididymis plays an essential role in reproduction, promoting sperm cell maturation. In this study, we investigated the effects of a high‐fat diet (HFD) in the three regions of the epididymis of rats, including caput, corpus, and cauda. Our results showed an increase in malondialdehyde and a decrease in superoxide dismutase, which indicated an increase in oxidative stress in all segments of the epididymis. The cellular response mechanisms were mostly detected in the corpus/cauda regions, which showed an increase in apoptosis, probably for eliminating dysfunctional cells arising from HFD‐induced oxidative stress, and a decrease in mitophagy. Additionally, an increase in lipophagy to prevent lipid accumulation and a decrease in cell proliferation were recorded in the corpus.
Diagnostic Performance of the 2018 EASL vs. LI‐RADS for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using CT and MRI: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Comparative Studies
Authors: Shin Jaeseung , Lee Sunyoung , Yoon Ja Kyung , Roh Yun Ho
Published: April 2023

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be diagnosed without pathologic confirmation in high‐risk patients. Therefore, it is necessary to compare current imaging criteria for noninvasive‐diagnosis of HCC.

Purpose

To systematically compare performance of 2018 European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) criteria and Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI‐RADS) for noninvasive‐diagnosis of HCC.

Study Type

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Subjects

Eight studies with 2232 observations, including 1617 HCCs.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 T, 3.0 T/T2‐weighted, unenhanced T1‐weighted in‐/opposed‐phases, multiphase T1‐weighted imaging.

Assessment

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, two reviewers independently reviewed and extracted data, including patient characteristics, index test, reference standard and outcomes, from studies intraindividually comparing the sensitivities and specificities of 2018 EASL‐criteria and LR‐5 of LI‐RADS for HCC. Risk of bias and concerns regarding applicability were evaluated using QUADAS‐2 tool. Subgroup analysis was performed based on observation size (≥20 mm, 10–19 mm).

Statistical Tests

Bivariate random‐effects model to calculate pooled per‐observation sensitivity and specificity of both imaging criteria, and pooled estimates of intraindividual paired data were compared considering the correlation. Forest and linked‐receiver‐operating‐characteristic plots were drawn, and study heterogeneity was assessed using Q‐test and Higgins‐index. Publication bias was evaluated by Egger's test. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant, except for heterogeneity (P < 0.10).

Results

The sensitivity for HCC did not differ significantly between the imaging‐based diagnosis using EASL‐criteria (61%; 95% CI, 50%–73%) and LR‐5 (64%; 95% CI, 53%–76%; P = 0.165). The specificities were also not significantly different between EASL‐criteria (92%; 95% CI, 89%–94%) and LR‐5 (94%; 95% CI, 91%–96%; P = 0.257). In subgroup analysis, no statistically significant differences were identified in the pooled performances between the two criteria for observations ≥20 mm (sensitivity P = 0.065; specificity P = 0.343) or 10–19 mm (sensitivity P > 0.999; specificity P = 0.851). There was no publication bias for EASL (P = 0.396) and LI‐RADS (P = 0.526).

Data Conclusion

In the present meta‐analysis of paired comparisons, the pooled sensitivities and specificities were not significantly different between 2018 EASL‐criteria and LR‐5 of LI‐RADS for noninvasive‐diagnosis of HCC.

Evidence Level

3.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
On‐tissue chemical derivatization of volatile metabolites for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Forsman Trevor T. , Paulson Andrew E. , Larson Evan A. , Looft Torey , Lee Young Jin
Published: April 2023

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) of volatile metabolites is challenging, especially in matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI). Most MALDI ion sources operate in vacuum, which leads to the vaporization of volatile metabolites during analysis. In addition, tissue samples are often dried during sample preparation, leading to the loss of volatile metabolites even for other MSI techniques. On‐tissue chemical derivatization can dramatically reduce the volatility of analytes. Herein, a derivatization method is proposed utilizing N,N,N‐trimethyl‐2‐(piperazin‐1‐yl)ethan‐1‐aminium iodide to chemically modify short‐chain fatty acids in chicken cecum, ileum, and jejunum tissue sections before sample preparation for MSI visualization.
Gingival crevicular fluid periodontal ligament‐associated protein‐1, sclerostin, and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha levels in periodontitis
Authors: Gür Berkay , Afacan Beral , Çevik Özge , Köse Timur , Emingil Gülnur
Published: April 2023

Background

In periodontitis, the equilibrium between bone formation and resorption skews in favor of bone loss. Periodontal ligament‐associated protein‐1 (PLAP‐1) and sclerostin play a significant role in the suppression of bone formation. Tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) is a central proinflammatory cytokine related to periodontal bone loss. This study aims to assess gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) PLAP‐1, sclerostin, and TNF‐α levels in individuals with periodontal disease.

Methods

Seventy‐one individuals diagnosed with generalized stage III grade C periodontitis (n = 23), gingivitis (n = 24), and periodontal health (n = 24) were included in the study. Full‐mouth clinical periodontal measurements were performed. PLAP‐1, sclerostin, and TNF‐α total amounts in GCF were quantified by ELISA. Nonparametric methods were used for the data analyses.

Results

Periodontitis group exhibited significantly higher GCF PLAP‐1, sclerostin and TNF‐α levels compared with gingivitis and periodontally healthy groups (p < 0.05). GCF PLAP‐1 and TNF‐α levels of gingivitis group were higher than healthy controls (p < 0.05) whereas GCF sclerostin levels were similar in two groups (p > 0.05). Significant positive correlations were found between GCF PLAP‐1, sclerostin and TNF‐α levels and all clinical parameters (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study showing GCF PLAP‐1 levels in periodontal health and disease. Increased GCF PLAP‐1 and sclerostin levels and their correlations with TNF‐α in periodontitis imply that those molecules might be involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. Further studies in larger mixed cohorts are needed to enlighten the possible role of PLAP‐1 and sclerostin in periodontal bone loss.
Long‐term stability of regenerative periodontal surgery and orthodontic tooth movement in stage IV periodontitis: 10‐year data of a retrospective study
Authors: Tietmann Christina , Jepsen Søren , Heibrok Helen , Wenzel Sven , Jepsen Karin
Published: April 2023

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the long‐term effectiveness of regenerative treatment of intra‐bony defects in combination with consecutive orthodontic therapy (OT) in stage IV periodontitis.

Methods

Twenty‐two patients with a total of 256 intra‐bony defects were analyzed after regenerative surgery followed by OT initiated 3 months later. Changes in radiographic bone level (rBL) and probing pocket depths (PPD) were evaluated after 1 year (T1), final splinting (T2), and 10 years (T10).

Results

Mean rBL gain was significant with 4.63 mm (±2.43 mm) after 1 year (T1), 4.19 mm (±2.61 mm) at final splinting (T2), and 4.48 mm (±2.62 mm) after 10 years (T10). Mean PPD was significantly reduced from 5.84 mm (±2.05 mm) at baseline to 3.19 mm (±1.23 mm) at T1, to 3.07 mm (±1.23 mm) at T2, and to 2.93 mm (±1.24 mm) at T10. Pocket closure (PPD ≤ 4 mm) was achieved in 90% of all defects. Tooth loss amounted to 4.5%.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this retrospective study design, these 10‐year findings suggest that in motivated and compliant patients with stage IV periodontitis and in need of OT an inter‐disciplinary treatment can lead to favorable and stable long‐term results.
Improving lifetime of high‐efficiency blue OLED based on thermally activated sensitized fluorescence
Authors: Li Guomeng , Li Yilang , Jia Xiaoqin , Wang Lu , Liu Song , Zhang Dongdong , Zeng Lichang
Published: April 2023

As a promising technology toward high‐efficiency organic light‐emitting diode (OLED), thermally activated sensitized fluorescence (TASF) has encountered major obstacles toward achieving sufficient operational lifetime when it comes to deep blue emission that is desirable for display applications. We have systematically investigated various factors affecting TASF OLED stability and successfully improved device lifetime by using a thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) sensitizer with a fast reverse intersystem crossing rate (kRISC).
Automated reaction kinetics and network exploration (Arkane): A statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, transition state theory, and master equation software
Authors: Dana Alon Grinberg , Johnson Matthew S. , Allen Joshua W. , Sharma Sandeep , Raman Sumathy , Liu Mengjie , Gao Connie W. , Grambow Colin A. , Goldman Mark J. , Ranasinghe Duminda S. , Gillis Ryan J. , Payne A. Mark , Li Yi‐Pei , Dong Xiaorui , Spiekermann Kevin A. , Wu Haoyang , Dames Enoch E. , Buras Zachary J. , Vandewiele Nick M. , Yee Nathan W. , Merchant Shamel S. , Buesser Beat , Class Caleb A. , Goldsmith Franklin , West Richard H. , Green William H.
Published: April 2023

The open‐source statistical mechanics software described here, Arkane–Automated Reaction Kinetics and Network Exploration–facilitates computations of thermodynamic properties of chemical species, high‐pressure limit reaction rate coefficients, and pressure‐dependent rate coefficient over multi‐well molecular potential energy surfaces (PES) including the effects of collisional energy transfer on phenomenological kinetics. Arkane can use estimates to fill in information for molecules or reactions where quantum chemistry information is missing. The software solves the internal energy master equation for complex unimolecular reaction systems. Inputs to the software include converged electronic structure computations performed by the user using a variety of supported software packages (Gaussian, Molpro, Orca, TeraChem, Q‐Chem, Psi4). The software outputs high‐pressure limit rate coefficients and pressure‐dependent phenomenological rate coefficients, as well as computed thermodynamic properties (enthalpy, entropy, and constant pressure heat capacity) with added energy corrections. Some of the key features of Arkane include treatment of 1D, 2D or ND hindered internal rotation modes, treatment of free internal rotation modes, quantum tunneling effect consideration, transition state theory (TST) and Rice‐Ramsperger‐Kassel‐Marcus (RRKM) rate coefficient computations, master equation solution with four implemented methods, inverse‐Laplace transform of high‐pressure limit rate coefficients into the energy domain, energy corrections based on bond‐additivity or isodesmic reactions, automated and efficient PES exploration, and PES sensitivity analysis. The present work describes the design of Arkane, how it should be used, and refers to the theory that it employs. Arkane is distributed via the RMG‐Py software suite (https://github.com/ReactionMechanismGenerator/RMG‐Py).
KLF9 inhibits the proliferation, invasion, and migration of renal cell carcinoma through the SDF‐1/CXCR4 axis
Authors: Yu Peng , Cheng Long , Xia Wei‐Mu , Liu Ding‐Yi , Yu Jia‐Shun , Zhou Yan‐Feng , Zheng Yong‐Jun
Published: April 2023

Altered Krüppel‐like factor 9 (KLF9) expression can regulate the progression of several cancers, including renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This study was conducted to investigate the role of KLF9 in the proliferation, invasion, and migration of RCC cells via regulation of stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1)/CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4). The expression patterns of KLF9, SDF‐1, and CXCR4 in the experimental cell lines were determined by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. After transfection of the KLF9 siRNA and KLF9 pcDNA, cell proliferation, invasion, and migration were evaluated by experiments including cell counting kit‐8, colony formation, and Transwell assays. The binding of KLF9 to the SDF‐1 promoter was analyzed by chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual‐luciferase assay. The rescue experiment was performed using the recombinant SDF‐1 protein and KLF9 pcDNA. KLF9 was downregulated in the RCC cells. KLF9 knockdown induced the proliferation, invasion, and migration of RCC cells, whereas KLF9 overexpression elicited the opposite roles. Mechanically, KLF9 bound to the SDF‐1 promoter, repressed SDF‐1 transcription, and reduced the SDF‐1/CXCR4 expression levels. Activation of the SDF‐1/CXCR4 axis attenuated the inhibitory role of KLF9 overexpression in RCC cell growth. Ordinarily, KLF9 suppressed the proliferation, invasion, and migration of RCC cells by repressing the SDF‐1/CXCR4 signaling.
Wafer‐Scale Integration of Single Layer Graphene Electro‐Absorption Modulators in a 300 mm CMOS Pilot Line
Authors: Wu Chenghan , Brems Steven , Yudistira Didit , Cott Daire , Milenin Alexey , Vandersmissen Kevin , Maestre Arantxa , Centeno Alba , Zurutuza Amaia , Van Campenhout Joris , Huyghebaert Cedric , Van Thourhout Dries , Pantouvaki Marianna
Published: April 2023

Graphene‐based devices have shown great promise for several applications. For graphene devices to be used in real‐world systems, it is necessary to demonstrate competitive device performance, repeatability of results, reliability, and a path to large‐scale manufacturing with high yield at low cost. Here, single‐layer graphene electro‐absorption modulators are selected as test vehicles, and their wafer‐scale integration is established in a 300 mm pilot complementary metal‐oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) foundry environment. A hardmask is used to shape graphene, while tungsten‐based contacts are fabricated using the damascene approach to enable CMOS‐compatible fabrication. By analyzing data from hundreds of devices per wafer, the impact of specific processing steps on the performance could be identified and optimized. After optimization, modulation depth of 50 ± 4 dB mm−1is demonstrated on 400 devices measured using 6 V peak‐to‐peak voltage. The electro‐optical bandwidth is up to 15.1 ± 1.8 GHz for 25 m‐long devices. The results achieved are comparable to lab‐based record‐setting graphene devices of similar design and CVD graphene quality. By demonstrating the reproducibility of the results across hundreds of devices, this work resolves the bottleneck of graphene wafer‐scale integration. Furthermore, CMOS‐compatible processing enables co‐integration of graphene‐based devices with other photonics and electronics building blocks on the same chip for high‐volume, low‐cost manufacturing.
Nonhomogeneous multiparameter problems in Orlicz–Sobolev spaces
Authors: Rădulescu Vicenţiu D. , dos Santos Gelson C. G. , Tavares Leandro S.
Published: April 2023

This paper is concerned with the existence and multiplicity of solutions for a class of problems involving the Φ‐Laplacian operator with general assumptions on the nonlinearities, which include both semipositone cases and critical concave convex problems. The research is based on the subsupersolution technique combined with a truncation argument and an application of the Mountain Pass Theorem. The results in this paper improve and complement some recent contributions to this field.
Do non‐controlling large shareholders affect corporate over‐financialization?: A shareholder hybrid perspective
Authors: Li Bingxiang , Zhang Dan
Published: April 2023

This study investigates the monitoring role of non‐controlling large shareholders (NCLS) on firms' over‐financialization. We compared over‐financialized firms with NCLS with those without. Our first finding suggests that firms with NCLS have a lower extent of over‐financialization. We also find that the hybridity between controlling shareholders and NCLS in a firm decreases over‐financialization. Additional analyses show that NCLS monitor over‐financialization by alleviating corporate myopia. Furthermore, our results reveal that over‐financialization decreases with the relative strength of NCLS compared to controlling shareholders, NCLS' number, and NCLS' shareholdings. Our conclusions remain valid after accounting for endogeneity and employing measures of over‐financialization.
Approximation and simulation of signals via harmonic Banach summable factors of Fourier series
Authors: Sonker Smita , Devi Neeraj , Bhusan Jena Bidu , Kumar Paikray Susanta
Published: April 2023

It is well known that the Fourier series is not summable by harmonic means almost everywhere. This paper aimed to introduce the harmonic Banach product summability factors of Fourier series and conjugate Fourier series in order to establish two new approximation theorems. Moreover, some illustrative examples are considered to obtain the sum of certain oscillatory and non‐oscillatory sequences and demonstrated that their convergence are well behaved under the proposed mean. Also, the findings are validated and simulated through MATLAB programming.
Pushing the limits of low‐cost ultra‐low‐field MRI by dual‐acquisition deep learning 3D superresolution
Authors: Lau Vick , Xiao Linfang , Zhao Yujiao , Su Shi , Ding Ye , Man Christopher , Wang Xunda , Tsang Anderson , Cao Peng , Lau Gary K. K. , Leung Gilberto K. K. , Leong Alex T. L. , Wu Ed X.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Recent development of ultra‐low‐field (ULF) MRI presents opportunities for low‐power, shielding‐free, and portable clinical applications at a fraction of the cost. However, its performance remains limited by poor image quality. Here, a computational approach is formulated to advance ULF MR brain imaging through deep learning of large‐scale publicly available 3T brain data.

Methods

A dual‐acquisition 3D superresolution model is developed for ULF brain MRI at 0.055 T. It consists of deep cross‐scale feature extraction, attentional fusion of two acquisitions, and reconstruction. Models for T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted imaging were trained with 3D ULF image data sets synthesized from the high‐resolution 3T brain data from the Human Connectome Project. They were applied to 0.055T brain MRI with two repetitions and isotropic 3‐mm acquisition resolution in healthy volunteers, young and old, as well as patients.

Results

The proposed approach significantly enhanced image spatial resolution and suppressed noise/artifacts. It yielded high 3D image quality at 0.055 T for the two most common neuroimaging protocols with isotropic 1.5‐mm synthetic resolution and total scan time under 20 min. Fine anatomical details were restored with intrasubject reproducibility, intercontrast consistency, and confirmed by 3T MRI.

Conclusion

The proposed dual‐acquisition 3D superresolution approach advances ULF MRI for quality brain imaging through deep learning of high‐field brain data. Such strategy can empower ULF MRI for low‐cost brain imaging, especially in point‐of‐care scenarios or/and in low‐income and mid‐income countries.
Anxiety and depression among patients attending a multidisciplinary foot clinic
Authors: Almaqhawi Abdullah , Morrison Amy E , Berrington Rachel , Kong Marie‐France
Published: April 2023

Aim: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are linked to morbidity, decreased mobility, and feelings of isolation, powerlessness and sadness. The aim of our study was to explore the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms in adult patients with DFU.

Method: We analysed questionnaires completed by patients with DFU attending our University Hospital Multidisciplinary Foot Clinic service over a one‐month period in March 2022. The patients had completed three questionnaires, comprising of questions relating to socio‐demographic status and care perceptions, the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9) scale to assess depression, and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD‐7) to assess anxiety.

Results: Of the 60 patients who completed the questionnaires, 35% (n=21) reported anxiety symptoms and 40% (n=24), depressive symptoms. Individuals with comorbidities were three times more likely to report depression relative to those without any comorbidities (OR 3.3; 95% CI 1.13–12.56). Younger individuals (less than 50 years), were almost nine times more likely to report anxiety in comparison to those aged 60 years or more (adjusted OR 8.9; 95% CI 1.01–86.41), despite adjustment for confounding variables.

Conclusion: The prevalence of depression and anxiety in this cohort of patients with DFU was low, but those who were affected reported moderate to severe symptoms. Younger individuals and those with comorbid conditions with DFU are more likely to experience an adverse impact on their mental health. This is a crucial factor to consider in the management of people undergoing DFU care. Strategies to reduce anxiety and/or depressive symptoms could impact both quality of life and wound healing. Copyright © 2023 John Wiley & Sons.
Rescheduling gabapentinoids had negligible effects on prescribing behaviour by general practitioners in England
Authors: Kamerman Peter
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To determine whether the rescheduling of gabapentinoids in England as Schedule 3 Controlled Substances in April 2019, changed prescribing behaviour for gabapentinoids by general practitioners.

Methods

Data on the monthly number of prescription items and the monthly average dose per prescription item were analysed for the period April 2017 to April 2021 under three models: (i) a simple linear regression, (ii) a linear spline with a knot at April 2019, and (iii) a parallel slopes model with time before and after the rescheduling as a covariate. Best fit models were selected based on them having the lowest corrected Akaike's information criterion. Auto‐regressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models were also generated.

Results

For gabapentin, the best fit model for the number of prescription items was the simple linear model, and for the dose per prescription item it was the parallel slopes model. For pregabalin, the best fit model was the linear spline for the number of prescription items and the dose per prescription item. For all models, the interval estimates for the slopes were consistent with no change or no meaningful change in prescribing behaviour after April 2019. Forecasts from ARIMA models for gabapentin and pregabalin were consistent with no change in the number of prescription items per month. However, forecasts for the dose per prescription item for gabapentin or pregabalin did not fully capture the post‐April 2019 trajectories.

Conclusion

The reclassification of gabapentinoids did not materially change the prescribing behaviour of these drugs by general practitioners in England.
First‐principles study on the CH4 adsorption performance of Mn‐modified N‐doped graphdiyne
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Zhao Qiuyu , Chen Yuhong , Sun Jialin , Zhang Meiling , Sang Cuicui , Zhang Cairong
Published: April 2023

NGDY has high‐N atom doping rate, many active sites, large pore size, outstanding thermal stability, and excellent lithium‐ion storage properties. The mixed adsorption of the Mn‐modified NGDY (Mn‐NGDY) system has been studied with the first principles approach, which shows the effects and the mechanism of action about the modified Mn atom and H2 molecules on the adsorption of CH4. From the results, more electrons are transferred from the Mn atom to the neighboring six‐membered ring, making the Mn atom positively charged and forming a strong Coulomb interaction with the substrate. There is Coulomb interaction between the first two methane molecules and Mn atoms, and CH4 molecules have strong polarization phenomenon under this interaction, which causes the surrounding CH4 molecules of the first layer (The CH4 molecules around the first two CH4 molecules) inducing polarization along the XY plane (parallel substrate), and the surrounding CH4 molecules of the second layer inducing polarization along the Z‐axis direction, which improve the adsorption properties of other CH4 molecules. In the first layer, the interaction forces of the adsorbed CH4 molecules region mainly come from the interaction forces between CH4 and the substrate, and the interaction forces between CH4 molecules dominate in the adsorption of second layer. Polarization of H2 molecules along the Z‐axis direction causes the formation of a weak negative center above it, which promotes the adsorption of CH4 molecules above it. For the 2Mn‐NGDY system, a maximum of 72 CH4 molecules and 4 H2 molecules can be adsorbed simultaneously on both sides, when the average adsorption energy and adsorption amount reach −0.169 eV and 73.41 wt%.
Resilient time‐varying formation tracking for mobile robot networks under deception attacks on positioning
Authors: Liu Yen‐Chen , Liu Kai‐Yuan , Song Zhuoyuan
Published: April 2023

This paper investigates the resilient control, analysis, recovery, and operation of mobile robot networks in time‐varying formation tracking under deception attacks on global positioning. Local and global tracking control algorithms are presented to ensure redundancy of the mobile robot network and to retain the desired functionality for better resilience. Lyapunov stability analysis is utilized to show the boundedness of the formation tracking error and the stability of the network under various attack modes. A performance index is designed to compare the efficiency of the proposed formation tracking algorithms in situations with or without positioning attacks. Subsequently, a communication‐free decentralized cooperative localization approach based on extended information filters is presented for positioning estimate recovery where the identification of positioning attacks is based on Kullback–Leibler divergence. A gain‐tuning resilient operation is proposed to strategically synthesize formation control and cooperative localization for accurate and rapid system recovery from positioning attacks. The proposed methods are tested using both numerical simulation and experimental validation with a team of quadrotors.
Exploration of HPTLC Technology for Rapid Chemical Fingerprinting and Simultaneous Determination of Bioactive Constituents from Clitoria ternatea Linn.
Authors: Makasana Jayanti , Gajbhiye Narendra , Kumar Bishoyi Ashok , Savaliya Mehulkumar , Raju Saravanan , Bansod Shrikant , Baldaniya Lalji , Dholakiya Bharatkumar
Published: April 2023

The analytical methods used for herbal analysis are need to be economic, fast and also produce minimum quantities of hazardous chemical waste. Presently analytical community put interest in the research area of non‐hazardous and eco‐friendly practices to develop various green chromatographic methods for routine quality analysis. High cost of phytochemical analysis and uses of hazardous chemicals with high‐end sophisticated instrument, the attempt made to develop a simple analytical method for multiple samples with short time and less uses of solvents. A HPTLC method was developed for simultaneous determination of biological important constituents like β‐sitosterol, taraxerol, clitorienolactone B and β‐sitosterol glycoside from Clitoria ternatea Linn. The proposed method was validated and satisfied the ICH guidelines to demonstrate that the method is adaptable for its intended purpose. The method is simple, sensitive and economic it therefore embraces potential for detection, monitoring, and simultaneous quantification of the four bioactive compounds for C. ternatea and could also be apply to other species.
Stannous Chloride Redefined: A Mild and an Efficient Catalyst System for Poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) Synthesis
Authors: Savitha K. S. , Senthil Kumar M. , Jagadish R. L.
Published: April 2023

The efficiency of stannous chloride as a mild and efficient catalyst system towards PBS synthesis is described in detail. A plausible mechanism has also been proposed for the synthesis of medium to high molecular weight PBS.
Copper (I) Catalysed Tandem C−C and C−N Bond Cleavage of N‐Fused Imidazoles towards the Synthesis of N‐pyridinylamides
Authors: Ahmad Sofi Firdoos , Masoodi Mubashir H. , Ovais Dar Mohammad , Bharatam Prasad V.
Published: April 2023

Copper(I) catalysed oxidative conversion of imidazopyridines into N‐pyridinylamides has been achieved via tandem C−C and C−N bond cleavages under oxidative reaction conditions. The methodology has wide substrate scope and products were formed in good to excellent yields. This method is suitable for the oxidative conversion of both C‐3 functionalized as well as non‐functionalized imidazopyridines
Enhanced Activity of Cerium‐Doped Co−Cr−O Composite Catalyst in Selective Catalytic Reduction of NO with NH3
Authors: Jin Leying , Li Haixia , Zhang Yun , Peng Dan , Sun Zhijun , Zhang Anchao
Published: April 2023

Cobalt‐chromium oxide catalyst and cerium‐doped cobalt‐chromium oxide catalyst were prepared by the coprecipitation method. The doping effect of Ce on the catalyst for selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3 was investigated. Compared to Cobalt‐chromium oxide catalyst, the doping of Ce improved the catalytic activity and water and sulfur resistance of the catalyst. The doping of Ce significantly changed the surface morphology, reduced the crystallinity and increased the specific surface area of the catalyst. The large specific surface area of the catalyst facilitated the high dispersion of the acidic sites and promoted the adsorption and desorption of NH3. The doping of Ce increased the chemisorbed oxygen content and the number of acidic sites, enhancing the SCR activity of the catalyst. In addition, the doping of Ce increased the percentage of Co3+ and changed the ionic state of Cr, promoting the interaction between metal ions.
Green Synthesis of TiO2 Nanoparticles in a Deep Eutectic Solvent for High‐Performance Photocatalysis: The Role of the Cosolvent
Authors: Guzmán‐Cruz Andrés , Lourdes Ruiz‐Peralta Ma. , Pal Umapada , Paraguay‐Delgado F. , Pal Mou
Published: April 2023

Herein, we report a unique surfactant‐free synthetic pathway for the synthesis of anatase TiO2 catalysts in the size range of 13 to 20 nm by solvothermal method using choline chloride‐urea deep eutectic solvent (DES) as green media and 2‐propanol as cosolvent. The composition of reline was tuned by adding 0 (pure reline), 5, 10, 20 and 50 wt% of 2‐propanol. The amount of cosolvent was found to have a significant influence on TiO2 particle size, N2 isotherms and the magnitude of Urbach energy formed within the band gap of mesoporous TiO2 nanostructures. The sample obtained with 10 wt% of propanol showed the best photocatalytic activity in the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB), which is attributed to the combined effect of Urbach tail states, specific surface area, particle size and band gap energy of TiO2 NPs. Radical trapping experiments with scavengers revealed that OH⋅ radicals are primarily responsible for RhB decomposition.
Synthesis, Characterization, Bioactivity Impacts of New Anthranilic Acid Hydrazones Containing Aryl Sulfonate Moiety as Fenamate Isosteres
Authors: Tokalı Feyzi Sinan , Taslimi Parham , Sadeghian Nastaran , Taskin‐Tok Tugba , Gülçin İlhami
Published: April 2023

In this study, it was planned to synthesize new members of fenamate isosteres and investigate its effect on some metabolic enzymes such as Acetylcholinesterase, Butyrylcholinesterase, α‐Glucosidase, Carbonic andyhrase I–II. The target compounds were obtained from the reaction of N‐subtituted anthranilic hydrazides with sulfonylated aldehyde derivatives. The structures of the compounds were characterized using Fourier‐transform Infrared, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, and High‐resolution Mass Spectroscopy. Compounds had potent inhibitory strength with Ki values in the range of 0.23±0.03–7.12±0.41 μM against carbonic anhydrase‐I and 0.13±0.01–6.21±0.52 μM against carbonic anhydrase‐II. Compounds inhibited acetycholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase with the Ki values in the range of 42.73±15.80 nM–977.52±32.67 nM and 25.84±4.09 nM–261.36±34.05 nM, respectively. All compounds showed potent inhibitory activity against α‐glucosidase enzyme with IC50 value 1.51–23.51 nM, compared to the standard acarbose (64.53 nM). The orientation of binding of the synthesized compounds were further appraised by molecular docking studies, which reflects the importance of sulfonyl, furan, thiophene, and methoxy groups in protein‐ligand interaction. The docking results are complementary with the Ki values of compounds while the interaction pattern of the current compounds clearly indicates their structure‐activity relationship.